PRVCA Names Donachie as RV Tech Instructor

The Pennsylvania RV and Camping Association (PRVCA) recently announced the hiring of Ron Donachie as the new instructor of the RV Technician Distance Learning Program at Northampton Community College. According to a press release, Donachie is a graduate of the program and a master certified technician.

“The program is convenient,” he says. “I was able to do all the courses online. It [the program] works and I am proof of that.”

Donachie currently works as an RV service technician and has experience working in a dealership. “I have every day know-how,” he says. “I’m excited to share my experiences with the classroom and make students aware of what it takes to be an RV tech.”

Donachie’s first course, RV Electrical Systems, will begin Jan. 14 and run through March 10, 2013. The course offers a very in-depth look into the first of the three major systems found on most RVs. Beginning with 12-volts DC and expanding to 120-volts AC, all electrical systems and components are dissected and defined. The proper use of test equipment is also outlined and perfected and students are led through each type of electrical test.

Tuition cost is $375 while employees of PRVCA members will receive a 50% reimbursement upon successful completion of the course. The course also yields 56 RV technician recertification credit hours.

To register for the courses, visit https://lifelearn.northampton.edu/modules/ and create a username and password. If you have any trouble registering for the course, call Northampton Community College at (877) 543-0998.

The courses materials are supported by the Recreation Vehicle Industry Association (RVIA) and feature competency-based instruction, assignments and testing. To purchase the most recent set of RVIA textbooks, contact Heather at the PRVCA office, 888-303-2887, or e-mail heather@prvca.org.

Display Space Filling Up For ’12 Hershey Show

Display space is filling up for “America’s Largest RV Show,” set to run Sept. 10-16 at the Giant Center in Hershey, Pa.

As of Monday (July 9), organizers told RVBUSINESS.com that 45 manufacturers had signed on to display some 1,000 new models at the Hershey show and the list was still growing. The vendor count was 165 companies and space was virtually sold out.

“I expect to sell out shortly, as I am working with five manufacturers currently,” said Rebecca Lenington, executive vice president of the Pennsylvania RV and Camping Association (PRVCA), the show sponsor. “Manufacturer space is currently 5.59% over 2011 and booth vendor space is 8.7% over 2011 for a total of 5.75 percent over 2011.”

“We’re tickled pink,” added Heather Leach, marketing and education director. “If someone comes in at the last minute, we’ll find space for them. We’ll have to make space for them.”

Dealers get their first look during Industry Days Sept. 10-11, followed by the public Sept. 12-16. It’s a complete show, offering a look at new RVs as well as thousands of accessories, countless service providers and free educational seminars.

 

Hershey Show Prepping for Record Attendance

America’s Largest RV Show, held in Hershey, Pa., is preparing for another record-breaking year, according to a press release.

“I am pleased to report that space sales at the time of this year’s show drawing for manufacturer space has not only exceeded last year’s show drawing, but total space sales from the 2011 show,” said Rebecca Lenington, executive vice president of the Pennsylvania RV & Camping Association (PRVCA), during the 44th annual show drawing.

The event, which gives manufacturer and booth vendor representatives the opportunity to select their company’s location in the show, was held on May 9 at the Hershey Lodge. The show, annually sponsored by PRVCA, is slated to run Sept. 10–16.

Forty-two manufacturers and 134 booth vendors have purchased 639,565 square feet and 31,650 square feet of space, respectively, which is 11.86% more than the space sold at the last year’s drawing. “There are a very limited number of spaces remaining,” Lenington reports. “We extended the display area deeper into the parking lot, but never expected this…what a great way to show how the industry is growing.”

America’s Largest RV Show incorporates both Industry and Public Days to create a true hybrid show. Industry Days provides dealers and manufacturers the opportunity to connect and concentrate on building relationships. “It also provides sales training opportunities,” states Nick Palm of Tiffin Motorhomes Inc.

The show is the first to debut the 2013 product. “Industry Days allow me to send half of my sales staff to the show on Monday and the other half on Tuesday,” states Dan Saltzgiver, show chairman and owner of Reichart’s Camping Center. “This way everyone gets to see the new product.”

New for this year is a trip giveaway to the Dominican Republic for dealership principals or campground owners. The business principals, owners or employees can register for the drawing (the more employees that are sent, the better your chance of winning). The prize will be awarded to the principal or owner, but it can be transferred to any employee. A winner will be drawn on Sept. 11 at noon. For more details, visit www.largestRVshow.com.

Industry Days will also feature several informational sessions available, including a full-day F&I Clinic by Tim Spencer of Protective, a full-day Service Writer Clinic by Chuck Marzahn of Marzahn and King, and a half day Advertising Clinic by Ron Wheeler of Wheeler Advertising.

The Red Carpet Breakfast is returning to Chocolate World with a motivational message by NFL Hall of Famer Marcus Allen who will also be for a meet-and-greet and autographs.

America’s Largest RV Show, which is sponsored by the Pennsylvania RV and Camping Association, will take place at the Giant Center in Hershey, Pa., from Sept. 10–16. For more information visit www.largestRVshow.com.

Signups are Available for PRVCA Tech Program

Openings are still available for the RV Technician Distance Learning Program beginning in late March, hosted by Northampton Community College and the Pennsylvania RV and Camping Association (PRVCA).

According to a press release, two courses are being offered. RV Water Heaters (Beta 6018) will run March 26 through April 22, and RV Plumbing Systems (Beta 6011) will run March 26 through April 29.

RV Water Heaters will identify the various types of equipment and their individual components, along with proper installation procedures. Operational problems are then dissected and repair procedures are studied.

RV Plumbing Systems will allow students to identify and appreciate all types of plumbing systems associated with both fresh water and waste water systems. The various types of plastics used are discussed as are the various system tests mandated by the Recreation Vehicle Industry Association (RVIA). A detailed look into the recommended winterization processes is also a focus. PRVCA said that the student “will have a complete understanding of how the RV incorporates the entire spectrum of fresh water and waste management.”

PRVCA member employees will receive 50% reimbursement on tuition after successful completion of a course. Upon completion, students will receive a certificate that can be faxed to the PRVCA office at 717-303-0297 and a check for 50% of the courses tuition will be mailed to the student.

All of the courses are RVIA-approved and feature competency-based instruction, assignments and testing. The courses can also go towards RVIA/RVDA recertification credits. RV Water Heaters qualifies for 18 credit hours and RV Plumbing Systems qualifies for 24 credit hours.For more information on how the program works, call the PRVCA office at 888-303-2887. To register for the courses, call Northampton Community College at 1-877-543-0998.

 

Two March Classes Offered in RV Tech Program

Due to increased demand, the RV Technician Distance Learning Program, supported by Northampton Community College and the Pennsylvania RV and Camping Association (PRVCA), is offering two courses in March. RV Water Heaters (Beta 6018) will run March 26 through April 22, and RV Plumbing Systems (Beta 6011) will run March 26 through April 29.

According to a press release, RV Water Heaters will identify the various types of RV water heaters and their individual components moves quickly into the proper installation procedures. Operational problems are then dissected and repair procedures are studied to perfection. After successful completion of this course the student will effectively be able to:

• Identify the different water heater types.

• Explain the theory of operation and combustion.

• Obtain model specifications.

• Identify the advantage of a heat exchange and verify flow.

• Identify special tools and their use.

• Identify related terminology.

• Identify components and their functions.

• Diagnose common operational problems and determine causes.

• Repair and/or replace faulty components.

• Determine interchangeability of models.

• Install water connection

• Determine AC and DC electrical requirements and connect.

• Determine LP requirements and connect.

• Verify proper operation.

• Perform preventive maintenance procedures.

• Identify and apply codes and standards

 

RV Plumbing Systems will allow students to identify and appreciate all types of plumbing systems associated with both fresh water and waste water systems. The various types of plastics used are discussed as are the various system tests mandated by RVIA. A detailed look into the recommended winterization processes is also a focus. The student will have a complete understanding of how the RV incorporates the entire spectrum of fresh water and waste management. After successful completion of this course the student will also effectively be able to:

• Identify the various RV plumbing systems.

• Identify, troubleshoot and repair the drainage systems.

• Identify listed and approved plumbing components.

• List the differences between the demand system and the pressure system.

• Perform cutting and cementing of ABS piping.

• Identify fresh water and waste water system components.

• Test fresh water plumbing system using a pressure gauge.

• Identify and utilize plumbing system special tools.

• Identify and connect all types of plastic piping (PEX, PB, CPVC).

• Identify, utilize and leak-proof the various plumbing fittings used in RVs

• Identify and repair/replace the types of plastic tanks used in the plumbing systems.

• Demonstrate the basics of plastic welding.

• Identify demand water pump components.

• Troubleshoot, test, repair/install water pumps.

• Locate and utilize low point drain valves.

• Identify, troubleshoot and repair water leaks in fresh water system and waste water system.

• Repair holding tanks and fresh water containers.

• Troubleshoot and rebuild faucets, drain components and termination assemblies.

• Identify the various types of RV toilets.

• Troubleshoot, repair/replace RV toilets, fixtures and fittings.

• Perform fixture flood level and flow tests.

• Identify the methods used to winterize RVs.

• Prepare a coach for winter storage (winterize).

• Identify codes and standards applicable to fresh water systems and waste water systems.

PRVCA member employees will receive 50% reimbursement on tuition after successful completion of a course. Upon completion, students will receive a certificate that can be faxed to the PRVCA office at 717-303-0297 and a check for 50% of the courses tuition will be mailed to the student. It’s that simple. All of the courses are RVIA-approved and feature competency-based instruction, assignments and testing. The courses can also go towards RVIA/RVDA recertification credits. RV Water Heaters qualifies for 18 credit hours and RV Plumbing Systems qualifies for 24 credit hours.

For more information on how the program works, call the PRVCA office at 888-303-2887. To register for the courses, call Northampton Community College at 1-877-543-0998.

 

PRVCA Begins Selling Show Space for Hershey

The Pennsylvania RV and Camping Association (PRVCA) recently released America’s Largest RV Show’s 2012 Show Drawing Kit and the organization reported that space reservations are rolling in.

According to a news release, the deposit deadline to participate in the drawing is April 2 and the actual show drawing will be held May 9 at the Hershey Lodge in Hershey, Pa. The show will run Sept. 10-16.

As the first show to display 2013 products, America’s Largest RV Show is an important event to the RV industry by providing valuable feedback to manufacturers from dealers about their newest products; and because the show is a hybrid, exhibitors get a feel for the consumer market as well.

With over 1,000 units being sold in 2011, the event is a strong indicator for the strength of the RV market. PRVCA continues to strive to improve each year and has reformatted the Industry Day education line-up to include F & I, Service Writer and Marketing clinics from the industry’s top educators. And as an added incentive, PRVCA will award one dealer principal or campground/resort owner a trip for two to the tropics in January 2013.

Click here to view this year’s Drawing Kit or visit http://www.largestrvshow.com/, select “America’s Largest RV Show/Industry Info at the bottom of the page, and then select “Space Sales.”

 

Schedule for Next Distance Learning Course Set

The next RV Technician Distance Learning Course, RV Liquid Propane Systems, will run Feb. 20 through March 25, according to a press release.

The course, held online through Northampton Community College in partnership with the Pennsylvania Recreational Vehicle and Camping Association (PRVCA), dissects the second of the three major systems found in recreation vehicles.

Since propane is flammable, safety precautions are emphasized throughout the entire course. Curriculum studies the properties of propane as well as the types of containers used in the RV industry. Proper procedures for purging, storing and using LP, including the importance of regulation are presented and performed on paper as well as during many hands-on assignments. RVIA-mandated tests are also perfected.

After successful completion of this course the student will effectively be able to:

• Identify related LP terminology.

• Identify LP system components, their relationship and functions.

• Explain the sources of propane.

• Differentiate between propane and butane.

• Identify the properties of propane.

• Identify proper safety procedures for storing, handling, transporting and filling LP containers.

• Identify types of LP containers and their components.

• Inspect/replace relief valves, float gauges, sight gauges and dip tubes.

• Inspect, repair or replace stop fill float devices, automatic stop fill devices, service valves and excess flow valves.

• Identify reasons for purging LP containers.

• Purge air from a container.

• Transfer propane from one container to another.

• Leak test a container.

• Calculate container capacity.

• Fill containers with LP.

• Identify container markings.

• Troubleshoot LP containers and components.

• Identify high and low pressure flex hoses.

• Identify vapor flow.

• Understand and adjust LP regulator output pressure.

• Conduct a lock up test.

• Identify reasons for regulator failure.

• Install and protect a regulator.

• Use appropriate test equipment.

• Perform time, pressure drop and leak tests.

• Determine serviceability of high and low pressure hoses.

• Demonstrate the ability to inspect/replace propane piping system.

• Install and seal brass, copper and threaded fittings.

• Identify and size copper tubing types.

• Perform cutting and flaring of copper tubing.

• Identify codes and standards applicable to DOT and ASME containers.

PRVCA member employees will receive 50% reimbursement on tuition after successful completion of a course. Upon completion, students will receive a certificate that can be faxed to the PRVCA office at 717-303-0297 and a check for 50% of the courses tuition will be mailed to the student. It’s that simple. The courses can also go towards RVIA recertification credits (see credit hours listed below). For more information, call the PRVCA office at 888-303-2887.

All of the courses are RVIA-approved and feature competency-based instruction, assignments and testing. To register for the courses, call Northampton Community College at 1-877-543-0998.

The Spring schedule is as follows:

RV Liquid Propane Systems (Beta 6008):

Feb. 20 – March 25

28 credit hours

Tuition: $190 (after completion, cost to PRVCA member employees $95)

RV Water Heaters (Beta 6018)

March 26 – April 22

18 credit hours

Tuition: $125 (after completion, cost to PRVCA member employees $62.50)

 

 

PRVCA Publishes Latest ‘Explore Pennsylvania’

The Pennsylvania RV & Camping Association (PRVCA) announced the release of the 2012 edition of “Explore Pennsylvania.”

The official PRVCA membership directory and consumer magazine features 52 pages of RV and camping tips designed to give rears the latest information in RV trends and make their next adventure to Pennsylvania a great one, according to a news release.

This year’s publication features 10 Pennsylvania destinations to explore by RV, tips on purchasing the right RV, renting an RV, RVing with extended family, details on America’s Largest RV Show and a feature on Pennsylvania wine trails.

This guide contains a PRVCA membership directory connecting readers to campgrounds, dealers, suppliers, manufacturers and other services. The listings contain contact information and a brief description of the products and services available. Also, members were able add the option of linking their listing on the online version to their website for only $25.

The dealerships and campgrounds are divided into five geographic regions making it easy to find an RV or campground in the location desired. Manufacturers, service, suppliers, transport, rentals, press, insurance, finance, distributors, associations and after market dealers are listed alphabetically by category. The guide also includes attractions and events in each geographic area.

75,000 copies of “Explore Pennsylvania” will be distributed at over 40 RV shows throughout the East Coast (including America’s Largest RV Show). The magazine will also be on PRVCA’s website, at member locations, at welcome centers along the Pennsylvania Turnpike, through Pennsylvania visitor’s bureaus and the RV Hall of Fame in Elkhart, Ind.

Directories have been shipped to various PRVCA members for distribution. For more information visit www.prvca.org and select “Explore PA Magazine.” To receive a free copy, call the PRVCA office at (888) 303-2887.

 

Next RV Tech Distance Learning Course to Start

The next RV Technician Distance Learning Course, Introduction to RV Services, will begin on Jan. 16 and run through Feb. 19, according to a press release.

The course, held online through Northampton Community College in partnership with the Pennsylvania Recreation Vehicle and Camping Association (PRVCA), delves into the workings of a typical RV dealership service center and exposes the student to the skills necessary to function within a dealership environment.

RV construction techniques are discussed as well as the proper care and use of hand tools. Safety, work habits and the introduction to RV Codes and Standards are also presented. A deeper look into the various job classifications and pay structures at the RV dealership gives the student a well-rounded view of what is possible after training and certification.

PRVCA member employees will receive 50% reimbursement on tuition after successful completion of a course. Upon completion, students will receive a certificate that can be faxed to the PRVCA office at 717-303-0297 and a check for 50% of the courses tuition will be mailed to the student. The courses can also go towards recertification credits. For more information, call the PRVCA office at 888-303-2887.

All of the courses are RVIA-approved and feature competency-based instruction, assignments and testing. To register for the courses, call Northampton Community College at 1-877-543-0998.

The Spring Schedule is as follows:

Introduction to RV Services (Beta 6001)
Jan. 16 to Feb. 19
28 credit hours
Tuition: $190 (after completion, cost to PRVCA member employees $95)

RV Liquid Propane Systems (Beta 6008)
Feb. 20 to March 25
28 credit hours
Tuition: $190 (after completion, cost to PRVCA member employees $95)

RV Water Heaters (Beta 6018)
March 26 – April 22
18 credit hours
Tuition: $125 (after completion, cost to PRVCA member employees $62.50)

 

PRVCA Tech Training Agenda Slated for Spring

The spring schedule for the RV Technician Distance Learning program at Northampton Community College, in partnership with the Pennsylvania RV and Camping Association (PRVCA), has been set. According to a press release, PRVCA member employees will receive 50% reimbursement on tuition after successful completion of a course.

Upon completion, students will receive a certificate that can be faxed to the PRVCA office at 717-303-0297 and a check for 50% of the courses tuition will be mailed to the student. The courses can also go towards recertification credits (see course descriptions for each courses credits). For more information, call the PRVCA office at 888-303-2887.

The spring schedule is as follows:

• Introduction to RV Services (Beta 6001): Jan. 16 – Feb. 19; 28 credit hours; Tuition: $190 (after completion, cost to PRVCA member employees $95). This course is the logical entry point into the RV Technician Training Program. It delves into the workings of a typical RV dealership service center and exposes the student to the skills necessary to function within a dealership environment. RV construction techniques are discussed as well as the proper care and use of hand tools. Safety, work habits and the introduction to RV Codes and Standards are also presented. A deeper look into the various job classifications and pay structures at the RV dealership gives the student a well-rounded view of what is possible after training and certification.

• RV Liquid Propane Systems (Beta 6008): Feb. 20 – March 25; 28 credit hours; Tuition: $190 (after completion, cost to PRVCA member employees $95). The second of the three major systems found in recreation vehicles, the LP system, is dissected in detail. Since propane is flammable, safety precautions are emphasized right from the start and throughout the entire course. Here, the student studies the properties of propane as well as the types of containers used in the RV industry. Proper procedures for purging, storing and using LP, including the importance of regulation, are presented and performed on paper as well as during many hands-on assignments. RVIA-mandated tests are also perfected.

• RV Water Heaters (Beta 6018): March 26 – April 22; 18 credit hours; Tuition: $125 (after completion, cost to PRVCA member employees $62.50). Now that an understanding of propane and the delivery system within the RV has been mastered, the student begins a very detailed and in-depth look at the four LP-burning appliances common to most recreational vehicles. First up is the water heater. Identifying the various types of RV water heaters and their individual components moves quickly into the proper installation procedures. Operational problems are then dissected and repair procedures are studied to perfection.

All of the courses are RVIA-approved and feature competency-based instruction, assignments and testing. To learn more about the upcoming courses, please go to the PRVCA website at www.PRVCA.org and click on “Training.” To register for the courses, call Northampton Community College at 1-877-543-0998.

 

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