Make sure you read part 1 and part 2.
Fortunately, no one complained about our tempo-tank, but I would never do that again. Seriously, you should see the sloshing the bucket does when full. Regardless, it worked for the weekend, but you can bet that the gray water tank was number one on my list of things to add to our camper collection.
The full set up and unpacking went extremely well and rather quickly despite some of the quirks I noted above. We were relaxing and ready to enjoy the campground on day 1. We made campfire, had our dinner, and the kids were back at the playground. Day 1 came to an end with snores all around.
On day 2, I decided that it would be nice to have hot water. So, I read through the manual, made sure the gas was on, and opened up the outside access to light the hot water heater. I was immediately puzzled as our manual did not seem to match what I was seeing. We soon discovered that the manual did not match the model number. I was not happy, but a friendly camper-neighbor was willing to help me get the hot water heater going. Let me make a statement at this point…
Most fellow campers are helpful and friendly. I know. I know. The people that know me are asking themselves if I have lost that wonderful cynicism about humanity for which I am well known. However, it is well in place. Yet, despite my cynicism, I must admit the helpfulness and general good nature of people we have met camping. You still have idiots, but they are apparently more tolerable with wood smoke. Anyway…
The camper-neighbor and I figured out how to light the burner, and I let it run as he suggested. An hour later, we still had no hot water. Two hours later, no hot water. I was not happy. Then, something hit me. When we were looking at the camper to purchase it, I remembered that the hot water tank had been bypassed. Sure enough, I opened the cabinet, and it was still bypassed. This brings us to…
New Camper
Lesson #3 – Even if the Dealer Says It’s Ready…Check!
Our dealer was excellent and friendly, and literally did a lot for us during the purchase. We trusted them when they said the camper was ready, but they missed the bypass. Luckily it did not damage the tank when we heated it. However, I did contact the dealer and asked why it was not set up. The dealer immediately asked us to drop the camper off on Monday. They set the tank up, and added an awning to the camper without charge. Great Deal! However, check everything and, then, check it again!
End of Lesson
So, we spent the weekend without hot water which was survivable as we could heat it up on the stove or campfire. It was, however, a bit embarrassing and frustrating. Yet, it did not ruin a great campground and a good time with the kids. At least, the weekend was going great until we received a phone call on Saturday.
I was sitting in the sun, feeling the relaxation taking affect, when my cell phone rang. It was our Pastor. He asked if I was willing to help in the Service the next day. I said I would, and then he explained, with relief in his voice, that he had had A HEART ATTACK and was calling me from the hospital. I spent the rest of the day buried in my Bible and praying for inspiration for the sermon I would now be delivering. So, the final lesson from the shakedown cruise…
EXPECT THE UNEXPECTED!
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