Friday, June 22, 2007
RECALL
Make / Models : Model/Build Years:
CUMMINS / ISM CM876 9999
Manufacturer : CUMMINS, INC.
NHTSA CAMPAIGN ID Number : 07E034000 Mfr's Report Date : MAY 23, 2007
Component: ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING:ENGINE:DIESEL
Potential Number Of Units Affected : 782
Summary:
CERTAIN CUMMINS ISM CM876 (EPA-07) DIESEL ENGINES PRODUCED FOR ON HIGHWAY VEHICLE APPLICATIONS FROM APRIL 1, 2006, THROUGH MARCH 21, 2007, WITH SERIAL NUMBERS RANGING FROM 35157011 TO 35192741. THE ELECTRONIC CONTROL MODULE FAILS TO RECOGNIZE INPUTS OF THE VEHICLE ELECTRONIC CONTROL UNIT OR FROM A DRIVER ACTUATED DASH SWITCH THEREBY INCREASING THE RISK OF UNINTENDED (OR UNEXPECTED) ELEVATED EXHAUST TEMPERATURES.
Consequence:
WHILE THIS CONDITION DOES NOT INVOLVE A RISK OF FIRE IN THE VEHICLE ITSELF, IT COULD PRESENT A FIRE HAZARD IN A SITUATION WHERE THE VEHICLE'S EXHAUST IS IN CLOSE PROXIMITY TO MATERIALS OR SUBSTANCES THAT CAN MELT, BURN, OR EXPLODE.
Remedy:
THE VEHICLE MANUFACTURES WILL NOTIFY OWNERS AND REPAIR THE ENGINES FREE OF CHARGE. THE RECALL IS EXPECTED TO BEGIN DURING JUNE 2007. OWNERS CAN CONTACT EITHER THEIR VEHICLE MANUFACTURER OR CUMMINS CUSTOMER ASSISTANCE CENTER AT 1-800-343-7357.
Notes:
CUMMINS RECALL NUMBER C0709. CUSTOMERS MAY CONTACT THE NATIONAL HIGHWAY TRAFFIC SAFETY ADMINISTRATION'S VEHICLE SAFETY HOTLINE AT 1-888-327-4236 (TTY: 1-800-424-9153); OR GO TO HTTP://WWW.SAFERCAR.GOV.
CUMMINS / ISM CM876 9999
Manufacturer : CUMMINS, INC.
NHTSA CAMPAIGN ID Number : 07E034000 Mfr's Report Date : MAY 23, 2007
Component: ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING:ENGINE:DIESEL
Potential Number Of Units Affected : 782
Summary:
CERTAIN CUMMINS ISM CM876 (EPA-07) DIESEL ENGINES PRODUCED FOR ON HIGHWAY VEHICLE APPLICATIONS FROM APRIL 1, 2006, THROUGH MARCH 21, 2007, WITH SERIAL NUMBERS RANGING FROM 35157011 TO 35192741. THE ELECTRONIC CONTROL MODULE FAILS TO RECOGNIZE INPUTS OF THE VEHICLE ELECTRONIC CONTROL UNIT OR FROM A DRIVER ACTUATED DASH SWITCH THEREBY INCREASING THE RISK OF UNINTENDED (OR UNEXPECTED) ELEVATED EXHAUST TEMPERATURES.
Consequence:
WHILE THIS CONDITION DOES NOT INVOLVE A RISK OF FIRE IN THE VEHICLE ITSELF, IT COULD PRESENT A FIRE HAZARD IN A SITUATION WHERE THE VEHICLE'S EXHAUST IS IN CLOSE PROXIMITY TO MATERIALS OR SUBSTANCES THAT CAN MELT, BURN, OR EXPLODE.
Remedy:
THE VEHICLE MANUFACTURES WILL NOTIFY OWNERS AND REPAIR THE ENGINES FREE OF CHARGE. THE RECALL IS EXPECTED TO BEGIN DURING JUNE 2007. OWNERS CAN CONTACT EITHER THEIR VEHICLE MANUFACTURER OR CUMMINS CUSTOMER ASSISTANCE CENTER AT 1-800-343-7357.
Notes:
CUMMINS RECALL NUMBER C0709. CUSTOMERS MAY CONTACT THE NATIONAL HIGHWAY TRAFFIC SAFETY ADMINISTRATION'S VEHICLE SAFETY HOTLINE AT 1-888-327-4236 (TTY: 1-800-424-9153); OR GO TO HTTP://WWW.SAFERCAR.GOV.
Thursday, June 21, 2007
RECALL
Make / Models : Model/Build Years:
DODGE / SPRINTER 2007
FREIGHTLINER / SPRINTER 2007
Manufacturer : DAIMLERCHRYSLER MANUFACTURING INTL
NHTSA CAMPAIGN ID Number : 07V246000 Mfr's Report Date : MAY 21, 2007
Component: AIR BAGS:SIDE/WINDOW
Potential Number Of Units Affected : 39
Summary:
ON CERTAIN TRUCKS, THE WINDOW BAG MODULE DIFFUSER MATERIAL MAY CONTAIN HAIRLINE CRACKS.
Consequence:
IN THE CASE OF A CRASH WITH A TRIGGER SIGNAL FOR THE WINDOW BAG MODULE, IT IS POSSIBLE THAT SUCH A DIFFUSER MAY CRACK AT THE BEGINNING OF THE AIR BAG ACTIVATION INCREASING THE RISK OF INJURY TO THE SEAT OCCUPANT.
Remedy:
DEALERS WILL REPLACE THE WINDOW BAG MODULE. THE MANUFACTURER HAS NOT YET PROVIDED AN OWNER NOTIFICATION SCHEDULE FOR THIS CAMPAIGN. OWNERS MAY CONTACT DCC AT 1-843-695-5041.
Notes:
CUSTOMERS MAY ALSO CONTACT THE NATIONAL HIGHWAY TRAFFIC SAFETY ADMINISTRATION’S VEHICLE SAFETY HOTLINE AT 1-888-327-4236 (TTY 1-800-424-9153), OR GO TO HTTP://WWW.SAFERCAR.GOV.
DODGE / SPRINTER 2007
FREIGHTLINER / SPRINTER 2007
Manufacturer : DAIMLERCHRYSLER MANUFACTURING INTL
NHTSA CAMPAIGN ID Number : 07V246000 Mfr's Report Date : MAY 21, 2007
Component: AIR BAGS:SIDE/WINDOW
Potential Number Of Units Affected : 39
Summary:
ON CERTAIN TRUCKS, THE WINDOW BAG MODULE DIFFUSER MATERIAL MAY CONTAIN HAIRLINE CRACKS.
Consequence:
IN THE CASE OF A CRASH WITH A TRIGGER SIGNAL FOR THE WINDOW BAG MODULE, IT IS POSSIBLE THAT SUCH A DIFFUSER MAY CRACK AT THE BEGINNING OF THE AIR BAG ACTIVATION INCREASING THE RISK OF INJURY TO THE SEAT OCCUPANT.
Remedy:
DEALERS WILL REPLACE THE WINDOW BAG MODULE. THE MANUFACTURER HAS NOT YET PROVIDED AN OWNER NOTIFICATION SCHEDULE FOR THIS CAMPAIGN. OWNERS MAY CONTACT DCC AT 1-843-695-5041.
Notes:
CUSTOMERS MAY ALSO CONTACT THE NATIONAL HIGHWAY TRAFFIC SAFETY ADMINISTRATION’S VEHICLE SAFETY HOTLINE AT 1-888-327-4236 (TTY 1-800-424-9153), OR GO TO HTTP://WWW.SAFERCAR.GOV.
RECALL
Make / Models : Model/Build Years:
KEYSTONE / RAPTOR 2007
KEYSTONE / SPRINGDALE-CLEARWATER 2007
Manufacturer : KEYSTONE RV COMPANY
NHTSA CAMPAIGN ID Number : 07V245000 Mfr's Report Date : JUN 05, 2007
Component: EQUIPMENT:OTHER:LABELS
Potential Number Of Units Affected : 152
Summary:
CERTAIN TRAVEL AND FIFTH WHEEL TRAILERS HAVE INCORRECT INFORMATION ON THE FEDERAL IDENTIFICATION TAG AND THE TIRE AND LOADING INFORMATION LABEL.
Consequence:
ON THE TRAVEL TRAILERS, THE GVWR AND THE AXLE RATING IS HIGHER THAN THE ACTUAL RATINGS FOR THE AXLES INSTALLED. LOADING THE VEHICLE BEYOND THE GVWR COULD RESULT IN POOR VEHICLE HANDLING AND INCREASED RISK OF PROPERTY AND A VEHICLE CRASH. ON THE FIFTH WHEEL TRAILERS, THE TIRE LOAD RANGE AND MAXIMUM INFLATION DATA ON THE TAG IS INCORRECT. OVER-INFLATING A TIRE COULD LEAD TO PERSONAL INJURY AND PROPERTY DAMAGE.
Remedy:
DEALERS WILL REPLACE THE FEDERAL IDENTIFICATION LABELS AND THE TIRE AND LOADING INFORMATION LABELS. THE RECALL WILL BEGIN DURING JUNE 2007. OWNERS MAY CONTACT KEYSTONE AT 1-866-425-4369.
Notes:
KEYSTONE RV RECALL NO. 07-086. CUSTOMERS MAY ALSO CONTACT THE NATIONAL HIGHWAY TRAFFIC SAFETY ADMINISTRATION’S VEHICLE SAFETY HOTLINE AT 1-888-327-4236 (TTY 1-800-424-9153), OR GO TO HTTP://WWW.SAFERCAR.GOV.
KEYSTONE / RAPTOR 2007
KEYSTONE / SPRINGDALE-CLEARWATER 2007
Manufacturer : KEYSTONE RV COMPANY
NHTSA CAMPAIGN ID Number : 07V245000 Mfr's Report Date : JUN 05, 2007
Component: EQUIPMENT:OTHER:LABELS
Potential Number Of Units Affected : 152
Summary:
CERTAIN TRAVEL AND FIFTH WHEEL TRAILERS HAVE INCORRECT INFORMATION ON THE FEDERAL IDENTIFICATION TAG AND THE TIRE AND LOADING INFORMATION LABEL.
Consequence:
ON THE TRAVEL TRAILERS, THE GVWR AND THE AXLE RATING IS HIGHER THAN THE ACTUAL RATINGS FOR THE AXLES INSTALLED. LOADING THE VEHICLE BEYOND THE GVWR COULD RESULT IN POOR VEHICLE HANDLING AND INCREASED RISK OF PROPERTY AND A VEHICLE CRASH. ON THE FIFTH WHEEL TRAILERS, THE TIRE LOAD RANGE AND MAXIMUM INFLATION DATA ON THE TAG IS INCORRECT. OVER-INFLATING A TIRE COULD LEAD TO PERSONAL INJURY AND PROPERTY DAMAGE.
Remedy:
DEALERS WILL REPLACE THE FEDERAL IDENTIFICATION LABELS AND THE TIRE AND LOADING INFORMATION LABELS. THE RECALL WILL BEGIN DURING JUNE 2007. OWNERS MAY CONTACT KEYSTONE AT 1-866-425-4369.
Notes:
KEYSTONE RV RECALL NO. 07-086. CUSTOMERS MAY ALSO CONTACT THE NATIONAL HIGHWAY TRAFFIC SAFETY ADMINISTRATION’S VEHICLE SAFETY HOTLINE AT 1-888-327-4236 (TTY 1-800-424-9153), OR GO TO HTTP://WWW.SAFERCAR.GOV.
RECALL
Make / Models : Model/Build Years:
ALFA LEISURE / GOLD 1997-2003
ALFA LEISURE / IDEAL 1997-2003
ALFA LEISURE / SEE YA 1997-2003
ALFA LEISURE / SUN 1997-2003
ALFA LEISURE / TOYHOUSE 1997-2003
Manufacturer : ALFA LEISURE,INC.
NHTSA CAMPAIGN ID Number : 07V220000 Mfr's Report Date : MAY 14, 2007
Component: EQUIPMENT:RECREATIONAL VEHICLE
Potential Number Of Units Affected : 5625
Summary:
CERTAIN FIFTH WHEEL TRAILERS EQUIPPED WITH A TWO-DOOR REFRIGERATOR, MANUFACTURED BY THE DOMETIC CORPORATION, MAY HAVE A DEFECT IN THE BOILER TUBE. PRESSURIZED COOLANT SOLUTION COULD BE RELEASED INTO AN AREA WHERE AN IGNITION SOURCE (GAS FLAME) IS PRESENT.
Consequence:
RELEASE OF COOLANT UNDER CERTAIN CONDITIONS COULD IGNITE AND RESULT IN A FIRE.
Remedy:
ALFA LEISURE WILL BE WORKING WITH DOMETIC IN ORDER TO REPAIR THESE REFRIGERATORS (PLEASE SEE 06E076). DOMETIC WILL REPAIR THESE REFRIGERATORS BY INSTALLING A SECONDARY BURN HOUSING, A THERMAL FUSE, AND A MELT FUSE FREE OF CHARGE. DOMETIC HAS RETAINED STERICYCLE INC. TO MANAGE THIS CAMPAIGN. STERICYCLE WILL ASSIST YOU IN LOCATING DEALERSHIPS OR SERVICE CENTERS AND WILL PROVIDE ASSISTANCE WITH SCHEDULING OF APPOINTMENTS. OWNERS MAY CONTACT DOMETIC AT 1-888-446-5157, STERICYCLE AT 1-317-860-1163, OR ALFA LEISURE AT 1-800-373-3372.
Notes:
CUSTOMERS MAY CONTACT THE NATIONAL HIGHWAY TRAFFIC SAFETY ADMINISTRATION'S VEHICLE SAFETY HOTLINE AT 1-888-327-4236 (TTY: 1-800-424-9153); OR GO TO HTTP://WWW.SAFERCAR.GOV.
ALFA LEISURE / GOLD 1997-2003
ALFA LEISURE / IDEAL 1997-2003
ALFA LEISURE / SEE YA 1997-2003
ALFA LEISURE / SUN 1997-2003
ALFA LEISURE / TOYHOUSE 1997-2003
Manufacturer : ALFA LEISURE,INC.
NHTSA CAMPAIGN ID Number : 07V220000 Mfr's Report Date : MAY 14, 2007
Component: EQUIPMENT:RECREATIONAL VEHICLE
Potential Number Of Units Affected : 5625
Summary:
CERTAIN FIFTH WHEEL TRAILERS EQUIPPED WITH A TWO-DOOR REFRIGERATOR, MANUFACTURED BY THE DOMETIC CORPORATION, MAY HAVE A DEFECT IN THE BOILER TUBE. PRESSURIZED COOLANT SOLUTION COULD BE RELEASED INTO AN AREA WHERE AN IGNITION SOURCE (GAS FLAME) IS PRESENT.
Consequence:
RELEASE OF COOLANT UNDER CERTAIN CONDITIONS COULD IGNITE AND RESULT IN A FIRE.
Remedy:
ALFA LEISURE WILL BE WORKING WITH DOMETIC IN ORDER TO REPAIR THESE REFRIGERATORS (PLEASE SEE 06E076). DOMETIC WILL REPAIR THESE REFRIGERATORS BY INSTALLING A SECONDARY BURN HOUSING, A THERMAL FUSE, AND A MELT FUSE FREE OF CHARGE. DOMETIC HAS RETAINED STERICYCLE INC. TO MANAGE THIS CAMPAIGN. STERICYCLE WILL ASSIST YOU IN LOCATING DEALERSHIPS OR SERVICE CENTERS AND WILL PROVIDE ASSISTANCE WITH SCHEDULING OF APPOINTMENTS. OWNERS MAY CONTACT DOMETIC AT 1-888-446-5157, STERICYCLE AT 1-317-860-1163, OR ALFA LEISURE AT 1-800-373-3372.
Notes:
CUSTOMERS MAY CONTACT THE NATIONAL HIGHWAY TRAFFIC SAFETY ADMINISTRATION'S VEHICLE SAFETY HOTLINE AT 1-888-327-4236 (TTY: 1-800-424-9153); OR GO TO HTTP://WWW.SAFERCAR.GOV.
Wednesday, June 20, 2007
RECALL
Make / Models : Model/Build Years:
COUNTRY COACH / INSPIRE 2004-2007
Manufacturer : COUNTRY COACH INC
NHTSA CAMPAIGN ID Number : 07V241000 Mfr's Report Date : JUN 04, 2007
Component: EXTERIOR LIGHTING
Potential Number Of Units Affected : 1051
Summary:
CERTAIN MOTOR HOMES FAIL TO COMPLY WITH THE REQUIREMENTS OF FEDERAL MOTOR VEHICLE SAFETY STANDARD NO. 108, "LAMPS, REFLECTIVE DEVICES, AND ASSOCIATED EQUIPMENT." THE SIDE MARKER LIGHTS IN THE COMBINATION HEADLIGHT AND TAIL LIGHT ASSEMBLIES DO NOT MEET THE MINIMUM PHOTOMETRIC VALUE AND 45 DEGREES AS SPECIFIED IN THE STANDARD.
Consequence:
THE INADEQUACY OF THE FRONT AND REAR SIDE MARKER LIGHTS COULD AFFECT VISIBILITY OF THE MOTOR HOME DURING HOURS OF DARKNESS THAT COULD POTENTIALLY RESULT IN A MOTOR VEHICLE CRASH.
Remedy:
DEALERS WILL REPLACE THE MARKER LIGHTS ON THE SIDE AS CLOSE AS REASONABLE TO THE FRONT AND REAR CORNERS AND WIRED INTO THE PARK LIGHT SYSTEM FREE OF CHARGE. THE RECALL IS EXPECTED TO BEGIN ON OR ABOUT JUNE 21, 2007. OWNERS MAY CONTACT COUNTRY COACH AT 1-800-547-8015.
Notes:
CUSTOMERS MAY CONTACT THE NATIONAL HIGHWAY TRAFFIC SAFETY ADMINISTRATION’S VEHICLE SAFETY HOTLINE AT 1-888-327-4236 (TTY: 1-800-424-9153); OR GO TO HTTP://WWW.SAFERCAR.GOV.
COUNTRY COACH / INSPIRE 2004-2007
Manufacturer : COUNTRY COACH INC
NHTSA CAMPAIGN ID Number : 07V241000 Mfr's Report Date : JUN 04, 2007
Component: EXTERIOR LIGHTING
Potential Number Of Units Affected : 1051
Summary:
CERTAIN MOTOR HOMES FAIL TO COMPLY WITH THE REQUIREMENTS OF FEDERAL MOTOR VEHICLE SAFETY STANDARD NO. 108, "LAMPS, REFLECTIVE DEVICES, AND ASSOCIATED EQUIPMENT." THE SIDE MARKER LIGHTS IN THE COMBINATION HEADLIGHT AND TAIL LIGHT ASSEMBLIES DO NOT MEET THE MINIMUM PHOTOMETRIC VALUE AND 45 DEGREES AS SPECIFIED IN THE STANDARD.
Consequence:
THE INADEQUACY OF THE FRONT AND REAR SIDE MARKER LIGHTS COULD AFFECT VISIBILITY OF THE MOTOR HOME DURING HOURS OF DARKNESS THAT COULD POTENTIALLY RESULT IN A MOTOR VEHICLE CRASH.
Remedy:
DEALERS WILL REPLACE THE MARKER LIGHTS ON THE SIDE AS CLOSE AS REASONABLE TO THE FRONT AND REAR CORNERS AND WIRED INTO THE PARK LIGHT SYSTEM FREE OF CHARGE. THE RECALL IS EXPECTED TO BEGIN ON OR ABOUT JUNE 21, 2007. OWNERS MAY CONTACT COUNTRY COACH AT 1-800-547-8015.
Notes:
CUSTOMERS MAY CONTACT THE NATIONAL HIGHWAY TRAFFIC SAFETY ADMINISTRATION’S VEHICLE SAFETY HOTLINE AT 1-888-327-4236 (TTY: 1-800-424-9153); OR GO TO HTTP://WWW.SAFERCAR.GOV.
RECALL
Make / Models : Model/Build Years:
SURGE GUARD / AECM10096 9999
Manufacturer : TECHNOLOGY RESEARCH CORPORATION
NHTSA CAMPAIGN ID Number : 07E039000 Mfr's Report Date : JUN 01, 2007
Component: EQUIPMENT
Potential Number Of Units Affected : 841
Summary:
CERTAIN TRC SURGE GUARD 50A/120V CIRCUIT ANALYZERS, MODEL AECM10096, SOLD AS AFTERMARKET EQUIPMENT FOR USE IN RECREATIONAL VEHICLES. THE PRODUCT DOES NOT INDICATE AN OPEN NEUTRAL CONDITION UNTIL AFTER AN UNBALANCED ELECTRONIC LOAD IS APPLIED TO THE CIRCUIT.
Consequence:
ELECTRONIC EQUIPMENT IN THE RV COULD BE DAMAGED AS A RESULT OF AN OPEN NEUTRAL CONDITION SOME OF WHICH COULD AFFECT THE SAFETY OF THE VEHICLE.
Remedy:
TRC WILL NOTIFY OWNERS AND OFFER TO REIMBURSE THE AFFECTED UNITS. THE RECALL IS EXPECTED TO BEGIN DURING JUNE 2007. OWNERS CAN CONTACT TRC AT 1-800-780-4324.
Notes:
CUSTOMERS MAY CONTACT THE NATIONAL HIGHWAY TRAFFIC SAFETY ADMINISTRATION'S VEHICLE SAFETY HOTLINE AT 1-888-327-4236 (TTY: 1-800-424-9153); OR GO TO HTTP://WWW.SAFERCAR.GOV.
SURGE GUARD / AECM10096 9999
Manufacturer : TECHNOLOGY RESEARCH CORPORATION
NHTSA CAMPAIGN ID Number : 07E039000 Mfr's Report Date : JUN 01, 2007
Component: EQUIPMENT
Potential Number Of Units Affected : 841
Summary:
CERTAIN TRC SURGE GUARD 50A/120V CIRCUIT ANALYZERS, MODEL AECM10096, SOLD AS AFTERMARKET EQUIPMENT FOR USE IN RECREATIONAL VEHICLES. THE PRODUCT DOES NOT INDICATE AN OPEN NEUTRAL CONDITION UNTIL AFTER AN UNBALANCED ELECTRONIC LOAD IS APPLIED TO THE CIRCUIT.
Consequence:
ELECTRONIC EQUIPMENT IN THE RV COULD BE DAMAGED AS A RESULT OF AN OPEN NEUTRAL CONDITION SOME OF WHICH COULD AFFECT THE SAFETY OF THE VEHICLE.
Remedy:
TRC WILL NOTIFY OWNERS AND OFFER TO REIMBURSE THE AFFECTED UNITS. THE RECALL IS EXPECTED TO BEGIN DURING JUNE 2007. OWNERS CAN CONTACT TRC AT 1-800-780-4324.
Notes:
CUSTOMERS MAY CONTACT THE NATIONAL HIGHWAY TRAFFIC SAFETY ADMINISTRATION'S VEHICLE SAFETY HOTLINE AT 1-888-327-4236 (TTY: 1-800-424-9153); OR GO TO HTTP://WWW.SAFERCAR.GOV.
Tuesday, June 19, 2007
THE FATHER OF THE RV INDUSTRY
RV Business
Monday, June 18, 2007
Art Rouse, founder of Southern California-based TL Enterprises Inc., an influential force in the growth of the recreational vehicle industry, died Friday (June 15) in St. John's Hospital in Santa Monica, Calif.
An 89-year-old Malibu resident whose company published RV magazines and campground directories and operated a large membership club for RV owners, Rouse died as the result of an accidental fall a few days earlier, which resulted in a head injury.
As an advertising executive in 1958, Rouse saw increasing public interest in travel trailers, motorhomes and other types of camping vehicles (RVs) as new vacation-travel options. He bought a magazine, Trailer Life, that had been operated by an industry association, established an office in Toluca Lake, near Hollywood, Calif., and quickly developed a keen sense of what RV owners and prospective buyers would find interesting about this emerging travel-related lifestyle.
He brought sons Denis and Richard into the family business and, together with a small staff, increased circulation from about 11,000 at the time of the purchase to more than 300,000 in less than 10 years, dramatically building advertising revenue and expanding to other RV-related products in the process. Trailer Life magazine today is published by Ventura, Calif.-based Affinity Group Inc. (AGI), the parent company of RV Business and more than 40 other recreation-linked titles.
As public awareness and industry momentum increased, Rouse founded MotorHome magazine in 1968, recognizing a trend toward motorized RVs. During the same year, he acquired the fledgling Good Sam Club, an RV owners organization that has since grown to more than a million families. Other outgrowth divisions published campground directories and offered RV insurance and road service. Rider, a motorcycle magazine, was founded as a diversification move.
“I bought the magazine (Trailer Life) as a business because I thought the (recreational vehicle) industry would do well,” he recalled in a 1991 interview in the Los Angeles Business Journal. “For two years, it cost me almost every cent I had. Little by little, we passed our competitors, and I gradually bought them out one by one. The circulation grew and grew.”
Having become an RV enthusiast himself in the process, Rouse penned a monthly column in Trailer Life and was widely recognized as "Mr. RV" during his tenure at the helm of the company he founded. He wrote an autobiography, My Life on Wheels, in 1984, and was inducted into the RV Hall of Fame in 1986. An estimated 8 million RVs are currently in use.
Rouse's company was acquired in 1988 by AGI, led today by Mike Schneider, an employee of Rouse's from his earliest publishing days. "Art Rouse set the bar for all of us who serve the RV consumer," said Schneider, president and CEO. “His passion and commitment to the RVer, combined with his innovation and savvy business sense, played a large part in shaping today’s RV community."
Survivors include his wife, Toni, sons Denis and Richard, daughter Lori, 12 grandchildren and 4 great grandchildren.
Services are set for Tuesday.
Monday, June 18, 2007
Art Rouse, founder of Southern California-based TL Enterprises Inc., an influential force in the growth of the recreational vehicle industry, died Friday (June 15) in St. John's Hospital in Santa Monica, Calif.
An 89-year-old Malibu resident whose company published RV magazines and campground directories and operated a large membership club for RV owners, Rouse died as the result of an accidental fall a few days earlier, which resulted in a head injury.
As an advertising executive in 1958, Rouse saw increasing public interest in travel trailers, motorhomes and other types of camping vehicles (RVs) as new vacation-travel options. He bought a magazine, Trailer Life, that had been operated by an industry association, established an office in Toluca Lake, near Hollywood, Calif., and quickly developed a keen sense of what RV owners and prospective buyers would find interesting about this emerging travel-related lifestyle.
He brought sons Denis and Richard into the family business and, together with a small staff, increased circulation from about 11,000 at the time of the purchase to more than 300,000 in less than 10 years, dramatically building advertising revenue and expanding to other RV-related products in the process. Trailer Life magazine today is published by Ventura, Calif.-based Affinity Group Inc. (AGI), the parent company of RV Business and more than 40 other recreation-linked titles.
As public awareness and industry momentum increased, Rouse founded MotorHome magazine in 1968, recognizing a trend toward motorized RVs. During the same year, he acquired the fledgling Good Sam Club, an RV owners organization that has since grown to more than a million families. Other outgrowth divisions published campground directories and offered RV insurance and road service. Rider, a motorcycle magazine, was founded as a diversification move.
“I bought the magazine (Trailer Life) as a business because I thought the (recreational vehicle) industry would do well,” he recalled in a 1991 interview in the Los Angeles Business Journal. “For two years, it cost me almost every cent I had. Little by little, we passed our competitors, and I gradually bought them out one by one. The circulation grew and grew.”
Having become an RV enthusiast himself in the process, Rouse penned a monthly column in Trailer Life and was widely recognized as "Mr. RV" during his tenure at the helm of the company he founded. He wrote an autobiography, My Life on Wheels, in 1984, and was inducted into the RV Hall of Fame in 1986. An estimated 8 million RVs are currently in use.
Rouse's company was acquired in 1988 by AGI, led today by Mike Schneider, an employee of Rouse's from his earliest publishing days. "Art Rouse set the bar for all of us who serve the RV consumer," said Schneider, president and CEO. “His passion and commitment to the RVer, combined with his innovation and savvy business sense, played a large part in shaping today’s RV community."
Survivors include his wife, Toni, sons Denis and Richard, daughter Lori, 12 grandchildren and 4 great grandchildren.
Services are set for Tuesday.
THIS MAY BE WHAT IS ACTUALLY HAPPENING IN THE RV INDUSTRY
RV Business
Tuesday, June 19, 2007
June Dunivan, a founder of Longview RV Center in Longview, Wash., is closing the business after 30 years of selling and servicing RVs, according to the Longview Daily News.
"It's just something you don’t think will happen," she said. "They’ve been 30 good years, tough years, but we’ve survived."
Dunivan built the company into a multimillion-dollar business with 19 employees by 1997, but now there is only a handful of RVs and four employees left. The business will close when the inventory is sold off.
Dunivan credits her customer-centered approach for keeping business steady throughout most of the years. "We’ve taken care of them and they come back," she said. "We treat them like family."
But the RV industry shifted gears during the past few years. Gas prices doubled in seven years, and the recent spike was the final straw, Dunivan said.
At Longview RV, sales dropped by about 50 percent in 2006 from 2005. "We used to sell 25 to 30 units a month during the summer time," she said. Last August, Dunivan cut the sales part of her business and focused on servicing existing RVs.
"We had been seeing a decline for the past three years as the gas prices went up," she said. "And it kept getting worse. Also, we weren’t seeing the Baby Boomers (buying RVs), which experts were calling for."
Longview is a city of 35,000 located on the Columbia River downriver from Portland, Ore.
Dunivan said she plans to lease her high-traffic location to one or more businesses, but "if the right offer comes along, I might think about selling."
"It’s been my baby from the beginning, it’s been fun," Dunivan said with tears in her eyes. "I guess it’s just time to call it quits and move on."
Tuesday, June 19, 2007
June Dunivan, a founder of Longview RV Center in Longview, Wash., is closing the business after 30 years of selling and servicing RVs, according to the Longview Daily News.
"It's just something you don’t think will happen," she said. "They’ve been 30 good years, tough years, but we’ve survived."
Dunivan built the company into a multimillion-dollar business with 19 employees by 1997, but now there is only a handful of RVs and four employees left. The business will close when the inventory is sold off.
Dunivan credits her customer-centered approach for keeping business steady throughout most of the years. "We’ve taken care of them and they come back," she said. "We treat them like family."
But the RV industry shifted gears during the past few years. Gas prices doubled in seven years, and the recent spike was the final straw, Dunivan said.
At Longview RV, sales dropped by about 50 percent in 2006 from 2005. "We used to sell 25 to 30 units a month during the summer time," she said. Last August, Dunivan cut the sales part of her business and focused on servicing existing RVs.
"We had been seeing a decline for the past three years as the gas prices went up," she said. "And it kept getting worse. Also, we weren’t seeing the Baby Boomers (buying RVs), which experts were calling for."
Longview is a city of 35,000 located on the Columbia River downriver from Portland, Ore.
Dunivan said she plans to lease her high-traffic location to one or more businesses, but "if the right offer comes along, I might think about selling."
"It’s been my baby from the beginning, it’s been fun," Dunivan said with tears in her eyes. "I guess it’s just time to call it quits and move on."
RECALL
Make / Models : Model/Build Years:
THOR CALIFORNIA / SUMMITT 2007
THOR CALIFORNIA / WAVE 2007
Manufacturer : THOR CALIFORNIA INC.
NHTSA CAMPAIGN ID Number : 07V237000 Mfr's Report Date : MAY 23, 2007
Component: EQUIPMENT:RECREATIONAL VEHICLE:LPG FURNACE
Potential Number Of Units Affected : 8
Summary:
ON CERTAIN FIFTH WHEEL AND TRAVEL TRAILERS EQUIPPED WITH SUBURBAN THREE BURNER MATCH LIGHT GAS RANGES, THE OVEN THERMOSTAT CONTROL VALVE CAN ALLOW GAS FLOW TO THE OVEN BURNER WHEN THE OVEN CONTROL KNOB IS PUSHED IN AND NOT FULLY IN THE CORRECT POSITION TO LIGHT THE PILOT.
Consequence:
IF THE OVEN CONTROL KNOB WAS DEPRESSED FOR SOME TIME BEFORE LIGHTING THE PILOT LIGHT, THE EXCESS GAS IN THE OVEN COULD CAUSE A FLASH AT THE OPENING OF THE OVEN, POSSIBLY RESULTING IN PERSONAL INJURY.
Remedy:
THOR IS WORKING WITH SUBURBAN TO REPLACE THE OVEN THERMOSTAT CONTROL FREE OF CHARGE. THE MANUFACTURER HAS NOT YET PROVIDED AN OWNER NOTIFICATION SCHEDULE. OWNERS MAY CONTACT SUBURBAN AT 1-423-775-2131 OR THOR AT 1-888-697-8467.
Notes:
CUSTOMERS MAY CONTACT THE NATIONAL HIGHWAY TRAFFIC SAFETY ADMINISTRATION’S VEHICLE SAFETY HOTLINE AT 1-888-327-4236 (TTY: 1-800-424-9153); OR GO TO HTTP://WWW.SAFERCAR.GOV.
THOR CALIFORNIA / SUMMITT 2007
THOR CALIFORNIA / WAVE 2007
Manufacturer : THOR CALIFORNIA INC.
NHTSA CAMPAIGN ID Number : 07V237000 Mfr's Report Date : MAY 23, 2007
Component: EQUIPMENT:RECREATIONAL VEHICLE:LPG FURNACE
Potential Number Of Units Affected : 8
Summary:
ON CERTAIN FIFTH WHEEL AND TRAVEL TRAILERS EQUIPPED WITH SUBURBAN THREE BURNER MATCH LIGHT GAS RANGES, THE OVEN THERMOSTAT CONTROL VALVE CAN ALLOW GAS FLOW TO THE OVEN BURNER WHEN THE OVEN CONTROL KNOB IS PUSHED IN AND NOT FULLY IN THE CORRECT POSITION TO LIGHT THE PILOT.
Consequence:
IF THE OVEN CONTROL KNOB WAS DEPRESSED FOR SOME TIME BEFORE LIGHTING THE PILOT LIGHT, THE EXCESS GAS IN THE OVEN COULD CAUSE A FLASH AT THE OPENING OF THE OVEN, POSSIBLY RESULTING IN PERSONAL INJURY.
Remedy:
THOR IS WORKING WITH SUBURBAN TO REPLACE THE OVEN THERMOSTAT CONTROL FREE OF CHARGE. THE MANUFACTURER HAS NOT YET PROVIDED AN OWNER NOTIFICATION SCHEDULE. OWNERS MAY CONTACT SUBURBAN AT 1-423-775-2131 OR THOR AT 1-888-697-8467.
Notes:
CUSTOMERS MAY CONTACT THE NATIONAL HIGHWAY TRAFFIC SAFETY ADMINISTRATION’S VEHICLE SAFETY HOTLINE AT 1-888-327-4236 (TTY: 1-800-424-9153); OR GO TO HTTP://WWW.SAFERCAR.GOV.
RECALL
Make / Models : Model/Build Years:
RANGER TRAIL / AF4500 2007
RANGER TRAIL / AM4500 2007
RANGER TRAIL / CF4500 2007
RANGER TRAIL / SF4500 2007
Manufacturer : WOOD MANUFACTURING CO., INC.
NHTSA CAMPAIGN ID Number : 07V236000 Mfr's Report Date : JUN 01, 2007
Component: TIRES
Potential Number Of Units Affected : 321
Summary:
CERTAIN TRAILERS FAIL TO COMPLY WITH THE REQUIREMENTS OF FEDERAL MOTOR VEHICLE SAFETY STANDARD NO. 110, 'TIRE SELECTION AND RIMS FOR MOTOR VEHICLES.' SOME 'C' LOAD RATED TIRES WERE SUPPLIED INADVERTENTLY INSTEAD OF 'D' LOAD RATED TIRES .
Consequence:
THIS DOES NOT MEET THE STANDARD REQUIREMENTS.
Remedy:
OWNERS WILL BE ASKED TO INSPECT THE TIRES TO SEE IF THE TIRES ARE 'D' LOAD RATED OR 'C' LOAD RATED. IF THE TIRES ARE 'C' LOAD RATED, THE CUSTOMER WILL BE DIRECTED TO CONTACT THEIR RANGER DEALER TO HAVE THE TIRES CHANGED. THE RECALL IS EXPECTED TO BEGIN DURING JUNE 2007. OWNERS MAY CONTACT RANGER BOATS AT 1-870-452-2222.
Notes:
CUSTOMERS MAY ALSO CONTACT THE NATIONAL HIGHWAY TRAFFIC SAFETY ADMINISTRATION’S VEHICLE SAFETY HOTLINE AT 1-888-327-4236 (TTY 1-800-424-9153), OR GO TO HTTP://WWW.SAFERCAR.GOV.
RANGER TRAIL / AF4500 2007
RANGER TRAIL / AM4500 2007
RANGER TRAIL / CF4500 2007
RANGER TRAIL / SF4500 2007
Manufacturer : WOOD MANUFACTURING CO., INC.
NHTSA CAMPAIGN ID Number : 07V236000 Mfr's Report Date : JUN 01, 2007
Component: TIRES
Potential Number Of Units Affected : 321
Summary:
CERTAIN TRAILERS FAIL TO COMPLY WITH THE REQUIREMENTS OF FEDERAL MOTOR VEHICLE SAFETY STANDARD NO. 110, 'TIRE SELECTION AND RIMS FOR MOTOR VEHICLES.' SOME 'C' LOAD RATED TIRES WERE SUPPLIED INADVERTENTLY INSTEAD OF 'D' LOAD RATED TIRES .
Consequence:
THIS DOES NOT MEET THE STANDARD REQUIREMENTS.
Remedy:
OWNERS WILL BE ASKED TO INSPECT THE TIRES TO SEE IF THE TIRES ARE 'D' LOAD RATED OR 'C' LOAD RATED. IF THE TIRES ARE 'C' LOAD RATED, THE CUSTOMER WILL BE DIRECTED TO CONTACT THEIR RANGER DEALER TO HAVE THE TIRES CHANGED. THE RECALL IS EXPECTED TO BEGIN DURING JUNE 2007. OWNERS MAY CONTACT RANGER BOATS AT 1-870-452-2222.
Notes:
CUSTOMERS MAY ALSO CONTACT THE NATIONAL HIGHWAY TRAFFIC SAFETY ADMINISTRATION’S VEHICLE SAFETY HOTLINE AT 1-888-327-4236 (TTY 1-800-424-9153), OR GO TO HTTP://WWW.SAFERCAR.GOV.
RECALL
Make / Models : Model/Build Years:
WORKHORSE / P42 2001-2007
WORKHORSE / W42 2001-2007
Manufacturer : WORKHORSE CUSTOM CHASSIS
NHTSA CAMPAIGN ID Number : 07V233000 Mfr's Report Date : MAY 18, 2007
Component: FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE
Potential Number Of Units Affected : 4174
Summary:
CERTAIN COMMERCIAL CHASSIS FAIL TO CONFORM TO THE REQUIREMENTS OF FEDERAL MOTOR VEHICLE SAFETY STANDARD NO. 301, "FUEL SYSTEM INTEGRITY." FUEL SPILLAGE DURING A ROLLOVER TEST EXCEEDED 142G, WHICH DOES NOT COMPLY WITH THE STANDARD.
Consequence:
FUEL LEAKAGE, IN THE PRESENCE OF AN IGNITION SOURCE, COULD RESULT IN A FIRE.
Remedy:
VEHICLES WILL BE FITTED WITH A NEW WIDE RETAINING RING AND ADDITIONALLY ANY VEHICLES BUILT PRIOR TO JULY 1, 2003 WILL ALSO BE FITTED WITH AN EXTRA RETENTION CLIP. THE RECALL IS EXPECTED TO BEGIN ON OR ABOUT JULY 27, 2007. OWNERS MAY CONTACT WORKHORSE AT 877-294-6773.
Notes:
WORKHORSE RECALL NO. 60701-C. CUSTOMERS MAY CONTACT THE NATIONAL HIGHWAY TRAFFIC SAFETY ADMINISTRATION’S VEHICLE SAFETY HOTLINE AT 1-888-327-4236 (TTY: 1-800-424-9153); OR GO TO HTTP://WWW.SAFERCAR.GOV.
WORKHORSE / P42 2001-2007
WORKHORSE / W42 2001-2007
Manufacturer : WORKHORSE CUSTOM CHASSIS
NHTSA CAMPAIGN ID Number : 07V233000 Mfr's Report Date : MAY 18, 2007
Component: FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE
Potential Number Of Units Affected : 4174
Summary:
CERTAIN COMMERCIAL CHASSIS FAIL TO CONFORM TO THE REQUIREMENTS OF FEDERAL MOTOR VEHICLE SAFETY STANDARD NO. 301, "FUEL SYSTEM INTEGRITY." FUEL SPILLAGE DURING A ROLLOVER TEST EXCEEDED 142G, WHICH DOES NOT COMPLY WITH THE STANDARD.
Consequence:
FUEL LEAKAGE, IN THE PRESENCE OF AN IGNITION SOURCE, COULD RESULT IN A FIRE.
Remedy:
VEHICLES WILL BE FITTED WITH A NEW WIDE RETAINING RING AND ADDITIONALLY ANY VEHICLES BUILT PRIOR TO JULY 1, 2003 WILL ALSO BE FITTED WITH AN EXTRA RETENTION CLIP. THE RECALL IS EXPECTED TO BEGIN ON OR ABOUT JULY 27, 2007. OWNERS MAY CONTACT WORKHORSE AT 877-294-6773.
Notes:
WORKHORSE RECALL NO. 60701-C. CUSTOMERS MAY CONTACT THE NATIONAL HIGHWAY TRAFFIC SAFETY ADMINISTRATION’S VEHICLE SAFETY HOTLINE AT 1-888-327-4236 (TTY: 1-800-424-9153); OR GO TO HTTP://WWW.SAFERCAR.GOV.
