Our Coach — “Bettie”
We purchased our very first motorhome in July 2013. It is a 2004 Damon Challenger 348F. We named her Bettie. Or Bouncing Bettie if you like.
Specs:
- 36 feet in overall length
- Ford Chassis with a Triton V10 engine
- Tw0 slide outs (living room and bedroom)
- Onan Marquis Gold 5500 generator
- Two Roof Mounted Carrier AC units (30amp coach so only one can be run at a time unless on generator)
- Two 6V deep cycle house batteries
Modification To Do List:
- Remove front overhead TV Done 8/2013
- Remove blue swivel chair across from couch Done 8/2013
- Buy / Build new TV cabinet to replace swivel chair Done 12/2013
- Replace makeup mirror in bedroom with TV and convert old TV cabinet into storage (started)
- Install a 2000w pure sign wave inverter
Wish List:
- Instant Hot Water Heater
- Add two more house batteries (6V deep cycle)
- Add solar panels and solar charge controller (200 – 400 watts)
Our Toad
We are replacing our totalled ‘04 Saturn Vue with an ‘09 Saturn Vue before hitting the road full time in 2016.
Specs:
- 2009 Saturn Vue
- Blue Ox base plate
- ReadyBrutte Elite tow bar
- Brake Buddy braking system with break away
A note about ReadyBrutte and 2009 Saturn Vues:
We were unable to use our ReadyBrake surge braking system on our new toad due to the location of the brake booster in the 2009 Saturn Vue. It is located on the firewall where the braking cable needs to be installed. We are using a Brake Buddy right now but may upgrade to a Stay N Play Duo if it does not work out.