New Stuff!
RVibrake Releases the Shadow
Traditionally, permanently installed braking systems for dinghies can take 6-8 hours for professionals to install. RVibrake’s new Shadow — which works with all towed vehicles — is a plug-and-play design that, said company reps, can be installed even by a DIY enthusiast in less than two hours without need for crimping, soldering or disassembly. And, with its Tow-Mode Detection technology, it recognizes when you are towing. Shadow also includes a built-in, on-demand battery charger capable of charging up to 10 amps when there’s a high parasitic drain on the battery — and comes with RVibrake’s Command Center tablet that allows operators to monitor when the brake performs, while sending instant alerts and automatically activating Shadow should a hitch failure happen resulting in a breakaway. For more information, visit rvibrake.com.
Xponent Power Solar Awning
Solar is the hottest trend in RVing today, but there’s only so much room on the roof of an RV. Xponent Power engineers, on the other hand, saw the wide expanse of awnings as a prime location — and the company has introduced the first commercially available retractable solar awning for the market. Deployed at the push of a button, the awning provides shade — and simultaneously generates more than 1,200 watts of solar power. Compatible with most RVs, the Solar Awning uses high-efficiency, glass-based solar panels and, said company sources, has undergone rigorous tests to ensure its robustness. The awning also features built-in intelligence to automatically retract when it senses adverse weather conditions. For more information, visit xponentpower.com.
Sudbury Debuts RV Care Products
Sudbury, a familiar name in the marine industry for its cleaning and maintenance products since 2009, has launched a series of 14 new products formulated specifically for the RV market. Designed to provide RV owners exceptional results, they’re said to be easy to use and environmentally responsible. The Sudbury RV line includes soaps, general and specialty cleaners, waxes, and items for tire and outdoor fabric care. For inside the camper, products are available to clean bathrooms, sinks, carpeting and upholstery, as well as eliminate mildew. Rounding out the offerings are toilet and holding tank chemicals. For more information, visit sudburyboatcare.com.
Hellwig Helper Spring Kit for ProMaster-based RVs
Since its introduction in 2014, the RAM ProMaster van has arguably become the most popular vehicle for Class B conversions. But while the 2022 edition carries up to a 9,350-pound GVWR, the weight of heavy loads can still cause the van to sag in the rear, reducing driver control and safety. Hellwig suspension Products has released a new helper spring kit for the 2014-2021 RAM ProMaster that, said company reps, will help restore a level ride height, leveraging weight back to the front tires and resulting in better braking and steering and balanced tire wear. The specially designed kit includes a single underslung adjustable-rate leaf spring (for each side) rated up to 1,500 pounds. The kit contains all necessary mounting hardware, including polyurethane bushings, and features Hellwig’s signature powdercoat finish. Available for ProMaster 1500, 2500 and 3500 models. For more information, visit hellwigproducts.com.
Coleman-Mach’s New Climate-Control Accessories
Coleman-Mach, an Airxcel brand, has released a suite of Climate Control Accessories for both new and existing Coleman-Mach air conditioners and air conditioners with heat pumps. The line includes Merv 6 Replacement Air Filters, add-on Electric AirSpace Heater Kits and the iWave-M Ionic Air Purifier. The woven Merv 6 filter — an upgrade to the standard mesh filter — better traps lint, household dust, pollen, pet dander and mold spores. The AirSpace heater can be easily installed from inside the coach to an existing Coleman-Mach AC unit and boosts an RV’s existing system by delivering intermediate temperature increases for more even heat distribution throughout the living space. The iWave-M Ionic Air Purifier, installed within a Coleman-Mach AC unit, operates when the fan is on and helps to remove pet and cooking odors, and kill airborne mold, bacteria and many virus spores. For more information, visit airxcel.com.
DEI’s Black Seaming Tape
Design Engineering Inc. (DEI), known for its lines of heat control and sound-deadening panels, has introduced a Black Seaming Tape designed to be a universal solution on wood, steel, aluminum, plastic and fiberglass. Made with a glass fiber scrim, high-temperature adhesive and durable black finish, the tape is said to be solvent-resistant and adheres in environments up to 311 degrees F. Designed for edge and seam sealing for DEI’s black floor and tunnel shield, it also works as a universal black tape solution for wrapping and protecting wires, cables, fuel lines and more; the company notes it can be used on wood, steel, aluminum, plastic and fiberglass. Available in 1.5-inch by 15-foot lengths. For more information, visit designengineering.com.
Samlex Intros New NTX Series Inverters
Many RVers are familiar with the PST Series of pure sine wave power inverters. Now, the company has taken that proven performance and incorporated it into a simplified and more affordable design. Available in four models ranging from 1,000 to 3,000 watts, the lightweight, compact NTX Series was developed for small- to mid-sized RVs and commercial applications. Each NTX unit comes with the NTX-RC remote included for straightforward operation of the inverter and features Hypersurge technology to support surge for longer periods and a single load-controlled variable-speed fan for quiet operation. Weighing just 5.4 to 12 pounds, the NTX inverters carry a two-year warranty. For more information, visit samlexamerica.com.
Shurhold Dual-Action Polisher
The combination of UV rays, blowing dirt and accumulated grime can leave a camper or motorhome’s fiberglass and paint dull and chalky. According to the folks at Shurhold, restoring the high-gloss finish is easy with its “World’s Best Dual Action Polisher.” The Dual Action Polisher has a 5-inch oscillating head that’s effective yet safe in the hands of DIYers. Speed can be adjusted from 2,500–6,500 orbits per minute to match the work needed — whether cleaning, buffing, waxing, polishing or removing paint defects — and the quick-change backing plate makes switching pads fast and easy. Features include a removable handle that fits on either side of the polisher and a counterweight that helps eliminate vibration from the oscillation. For more information, visit shurhold.com.