[Per]

The Explorer RV Insurance Agency has some videos on their websight on driver education. May find something there that would be helpful.

[Karl]

When to Fast Idle..

These are the people that built the bus. This is what they say, and this is what I do.

Bill S.

[Archived]

My super smart (non-computer controlled) 34 yr old bus won’t allow high idle even if you flip the switch until a couple minutes after start-up. I’m not sure if its air pressure dependent, temperature or on a timer – but it works. Once warmed up my high idle is also interlocked with the park brake. I can leave the switch on high but as soon as I release the brake the idle drops. When I set the brake high idle retruns. I have a six speed manual transmission so no keypad…….

Robert, I worked my way up from a tent (ok Class C) and I like your idea of renting a truck to get some seat time. I think the biggest difference between driving a bus vs a truck or other front engine RV is sitting in front of the front wheels. I found it to be an odd “feeling” at first but I’m used to it now. I spend time in a large parking lot to get the hang of when to start turning and how much. By watching the mirrors I learn how much to swing wide for right and left hand turns. On the open highway it drives just as nice and relaxing as my minivan – it just takes a LOT longer to stop! So like all large heavy vehicles pay strict attention to following distances and keep an eye out for knuckleheads.

Others have made the comment but I’ll make it again. You really should have a pre trip checklist and do it EVERY trip. IMO this must include an airbrake test (same or similar to the DOT requirements for airbrakes on commercial vehicles). While we are not regulated as commercial vehicles – lets face it these are complex vehicles that require some special care and feeding.

I very much appreciate someone who thinks about this stuff before taking the leap – kudos to you.