TIFFIN MOTORHOMESw.tiffinmotorhomes.com/pdfs/sideroads/sideRoads-03.11.pdf · We’ve learned that...

The Award-Winn ing A l legro C lub Magaz ine For Le isure & L iv ing

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3 Hauling horses,boats & friendsNew Phaeton adds ‘oomph’ for pulling heavier load

8-9 Getting up to speed in an Allegro RED Learning curve is easy, owners say in test reports

10 At your service in Red Bay What you need to know If your coach needs work

TIFFIN MOTORHOMES

2 SIDE ROADS

As Affinity Group Publisher Sherman Goldenberg observes, “These, of course, are not regular times.”

The staff of both RVBusiness and Woodall’s Campground Management reviewed the past year as we dug out of economic hard times. What struck those RV journalists was that RVing, including public parks and private campgrounds, outperformed many other American business sectors for the second consecutive year. Observes Goldenberg, “Maybe we’ll just chalk it up to North America’s drive – lust might be a better word – for affordable recreation, a habit that the average family has retained throughout the global recession.”

In his report, Goldenberg cites several examples of the growth pattern. “Our members are generally reporting a better year than 2009, with the exception

of the Gulf Coast areas (affected by the Gulf oil spill),” said Linda Profaizer, retiring president and CEO of the National Association of RV Parks and Campgrounds (ARVC). “It appears that snowbirds are returning in bigger numbers than last year as well,” she added. “Most parks report an increase in rental accommodations and tenting is still a major part of the picture.”

Industry leader Kampgrounds of America Inc. (KOA) reported year-over-year gains in each of the first 10 months of 2010 with total revenue up 8.5 % over 2009. For the summer camping season, same store revenues were up 6% and camper nights up 4.5%.

Leisure Systems Inc. ((LSI), franchisors of the Yogi Bear’s Jellystone ParkCamp-Resorts, reported same park revenue up 5% in 2010. While site revenue wasdown 4%, rental income was up 15%, store revenues grew 15% and miscellaneous revenue was up 19%.

For the Allegro Club, the past year was also healthy. The club is back to its pre-2009membership level of 6,500, retaining about 48% of the complimentary first-year membership of new Tiffin owners. Chapters are on the rise in both number and membership. Over the past 18 months, we’ve added seven chapters including our first chapter in Canada, appropriately named the First Canadian Allegros. The gains in chapter membership have been significant. For example, the Mississippi Allegros had slid to only four members two years ago, but the chapter boasts 19 members now.

Sharing among chapters has been a strong trend, from assistance setting up websites to building chapter membership to inviting other folks to visit chapter campouts. Another trend is charitable projects, especially for military. Chapters also are actively sharing do-it-yourself maintenance information and finding ways to go green.

We have three club-sponsored rallies for 2011, up from two last year. We also encourage dealers to hold rallies for Tiffin owners. In recent months, we’ve enjoyed a harbor cruise in Foxboro, MA; the hot-air balloon museum and the Sandia Tramway in Albuquerque, NM; and in Fort Myers, FL,we toured a swamp in old school buses, then visited the Edison and Ford homes. We’ve learned that after-lunch entertainment is often more popular than after-dinner events.

The Allegro Campground adjacent to the Tiffin Service Center has been at- or above-capacity year-round, with fall as the busiest season. That means more Allegro Club members dropping by our office to catch us up on their adventures, shop for the latest club apparel and quiz us on popular new models and floorplans, including the Allegro Breeze and Allegro RED.

Goldenberg’s theory about the ingrained family habit of affordable RV recreation seems to hold for the Allegro Club, too.

by Jimmy Johnson

President, Allegro Club

SIDE ROADSPublished by the Allegro Club, Inc.

Presorted Standard U.S. Postage PaidPermit #159, Birmingham, AL

POSTMASTER: Send address changes to the Allegro Club, Inc.P.O. Box 1429, Red Bay, AL 35582

NOTICE OF RESPONSIBILITY:The Allegro Club, Inc., Red Bay, AL, has designed tours, caravans,

and rallies for your pleasure and enjoyment and has attempted to select for you the best campgrounds, accommodations, restaurants, and transportation facilities for the prices charged. Allegro Club, Inc., Jimmy and Gail Johnson, and the Board of Directors do not own or operate any of the campgrounds, hotels, restaurants or transportation facilities and, furthermore, assume no responsibility for delays, losses, accidents, or for damage to persons or property caused by any person, firm, corporation, or other legal entity providing the following services: campgrounds, hotels, restaurants, transportation (including but not limited to transfers and sightseeing) or any other services incident to these tours, rallies, caravans or any activities of the Allegro Club, Inc. The right is reserved to substitute campgrounds, hotels, restaurants and alter the itinerary or reverse the places to be visited. The right is reserved to cancel the tour or caravan prior to departure. In the event of a tour or caravan cancellation, the Allegro Club, Inc., Jimmy and Gail Johnson, and the Board of Directors’ liability is limited to a refund of money received.

The Allegro Club, Inc., Jimmy and Gail Johnson, and the Board of Directors reserve the right to make any changes, with or without notice, that might become necessary with the understanding that there is no extra charge. After a tour, caravan or rally begins, any unused portions of fees paid are not refundable. The Allegro Club, Inc., also reserves the right to terminate tour, caravan and rally services for any client at any time for good cause.

The mission of the Allegro Club is:1 ) To promote friendship, fellowship and camaraderie among all owners of Tiffin-built motor homes;2 ) To provide pertinent information and assistance regarding Tiffin-built products, their maintenance and related safety topics;3 ) To promote brand loyalty to Tiffin-built motor homes among current owners; 4 ) To encourage ownership of Tiffin-built motor homes among non-owners. The Allegro Club reserves the right to edit submissions for space and

clarity. Manuscripts, photographs, illustrations and other proposed content are welcomed and will be considered for publication. Reproduction in whole or part without written permission is prohibited. Content, including statements of fact and opinion, do not necessarily reflect the viewpoints of Tiffin Motorhomes, Inc. or the Allegro Club, Inc. Tiffin Motorhomes, Inc. and the Allegro Club, Inc. are not responsible for content. Privacy laws and policies prevent Side Roads from publishing memorials, illnesses and other personal information without written permission.

ON THE COVERMore and more Tiffin owners are seeing RED, but they don’t seem at all angry. Introduced in 2009, the Allegro RED (Rear Engine Diesel) is now offered in 34-, 36- and 38-ft. floor plans with 2011 MSRPs ranging from $194,000-199,000. Test reports by owners of 34 QFA Allegro REDs are on Pages 8-9.

LETTERS TO THE EDITORWant to share an experience you had in your Tiffin Motorhome? Have a comment or suggestion about Side Roads, the Allegro Club newsletter? Write to:

Side Roads Editor, Allegro ClubP.O. Box 1429, Red Bay, AL 35582

Please include your name, address, email and phone number so we can contact you.

CONTACTS:Tiffin Motorhomes Parts & Service:

(256) 356-0261

Allegro Club: (256) [email protected]

Jimmy Johnson, Allegro Club presidentVerbon Jones, Allegro Club office manager

Cynthia Skinner, Allegro Club membership coordinator

www.tiffinmotorhomes.com

Looking for enough torque and beds to haul your boat, horses, friends and family in style? How about a moderately priced, compact Class A for family outings? Tiffin Motorhomes is introducing two new floor plans that address those interests. One of the nation’s top-selling models, the Phaeton now has a 40-ft., 380-hp diesel pusher with bunk beds in addition to a swanky bedroom with either king- or queen-sized bed. “When we introduced bunk beds in our smaller gas units in 2008, extended families, NASCAR fans, football tailgaters, anglers and hunters snapped them up,” explains Tiffin National Sales Manager Jerry Williamson. “Equestrian and boating folks told us they wanted in on that action with enough oomph to pull horse trailers and boats.” The Phaeton 40 QKH features bunk beds on one of the four slides, creating ample space for people to

move around. The bunk beds are on the driver’s side, opposite the bed in the master bedroom, providing a unique front-to-rear open coach view. A more functional bath layout adds to the appeal. The Phaeton 40 QKH is available on either a Freightliner or Tiffin’s own PowerGlide chassis. The MSRP, depending on chassis, runs $248,780 to $254,100. The new Allegro 30 GA is just two feet longer than Tiffin’s shortest coach, the 28-ft. Allegro Breeze. The Allegro 30 GA features driver’s side bedroom and galley/dinette slides for campground convenience and a streamlined appearance. The

bedroom slide is larger than Tiffin’s previous 30-ft. Allegros for storage and walking room. A lengthened awning affords additional patio space. “Many RV shoppers will find the Allegro 30 GA attractive, especially younger families escaping airport hassles, along with hotel and meal costs for vacations and other outings,” Williamson said. Available on a Ford chassis with a 362-hp 6.8-liter V10, the MSRP forthe Allegro 30 GA is $110,880 to $112,560. The 2011 Allegro line introduces 18-inch floor tile, solid-surface and tile galley and bath backsplashes,

Two new Tiffin Motorhomes’floor plans take aim at

emerging markets

OPTIOnALWASHERDRyER

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30 GAAir Coil Hide-A-Beds anddistinctive solid wood window treatment inlays. Additional information,including dealer locations, can be found by visiting tiff inmotorhomes.com

4 SIDE ROADS

Roadside recipesby Gail Johnson

You won’t need to wash silverware after enjoying this batch of recipes. These finger foods are dishes that would be appropriate at a campout gathering, as appetizers before a dinner, as snacks around a campfire or as additions to a pretty spring tea table. They would also be yummy for snacking while watching your favorite shows on TV in the cozy living room of your Tiffin motor home.

Remember to adjust cooking time about one-third less if using your convection microwave for baking. You can always cook longer if needed.

Ingredients:1 stick butter or margarine (softened)2 jars Old English cheese spread

1 egg1 loaf of bread

Instructions:

Cream first three ingredients until smooth. Ice bread slices with the combined spread. Cut bread in squares; bake in pre-heated 400-degree oven for about 10 minutes. Serve immediately.

Cheese ToastNot your mama’s cheese toast. Delicious, puffy, toasty, cheesy bites will melt in your mouth.

Instructions:

2 cups large pecan halves 2 cups whole cashews

1/3 cup melted butter 2 tablespoons fresh minced rosemary

1 tablespoon chopped thyme1 teaspoon salt

½ teaspoon ground sage½ teaspoon ground red pepper

Combine all ingredients in large bowl and mix well. Spread nuts on jelly roll pan. Bake at 350 degrees for 20 to 25 minutes, stirring every 10 minutes. Cool completely. Store in airtight container.

Herbed NutsThis is a delicious combination of pecans and cashews, flavorfully seasoned with herbs and slow roasted to perfection. Great for a fancy party or just for snacking.

Ingredients:

Party Ham SandwichesA tasty variation on the ham and cheese sandwich. It can be prepared ahead of time and refrigerated. Best if served warm.

Ingredients:2 packages heat-n-serve dinner rolls 10 – 12 slices deli ham (thin-sliced) 8 – 10 slices mozzarella or Swiss cheese

½ cup butter or margarine 2 tablespoons mustard 1 tablespoon minced onion flakes

½ teaspoon poppy seeds1 teaspoon garlic powder2 tablespoons sugar

Cut each pack of rolls to make a top and bottom layer. Place a layer of ham slices on bottom layer, then cheese slices. Mix remaining ingredients in small bowl and heat 2-3 minutes in microwave until watery. Stir well. Pour a quarter of the mixture over bottom half of rolls, ham, and cheese. Place top half over bottom and pour another quarter of the mixture over top, coating well. Repeat with second pack of rolls. Place both pans of rolls in preheated 350-degree oven for 5-10 minutes, or until rolls are hot and cheese is melted. You may cover the entire pan with foil and cook for a longer period of time. Best if served warm.

Instructions:

SIDE ROADS 5

Ingredients:¼ cup mayonnaise8-ounce package cream cheese, softened

½ cup chopped green onions½ cup chopped green olives

2 chopped, seeded jalapeño peppers (to your taste)1 package (7-9-inch) flour tortillas

Instructions:

Mix first five ingredients well. Spread mixture on individual tortillas. Roll up each tortilla and slice into small discs to serve. May be kept several days in refrigerator. Be sure to wrap rolls well in plastic wrap. Slice when ready to serve.

Mexican PinwheelsMy sister in North Carolina sent me this recipe. She uses it often for casual get-togethers. So easy and quick to fix, the dish may be made ahead and refrigerated for several days.

Salmon BallA wonderful dish for a tailgate party, a pot-luck, an open house, or any occasion which calls for self-serve items. Serve with pita chips, wheat thins, or any fancy cracker assortment.

Ingredients:16-ounce can salmon, drained and flaked 8-ounce package cream cheese, softened 1 teaspoon lemon juice

2 teaspoons grated onion 1 teaspoon horseradish ¼ teaspoon liquid smoke

¼ teaspoon salt½ cup chopped pecans3 tablespoons parsley, fresh or dried

Instructions:Combine all ingredients except pecans and parsley. Mix well and chill for several hours. (Tip: Line small bowl with plastic wrap, place mixture and shape into ball. Wrap securely with plastic and chill.) Combine chopped pecans and chopped parsley. Roll salmon ball in nut mixture, coating entire ball. Chill until serving time. Serve with crackers or party bread. May be frozen.

Apple FrittersThis recipe comes from the Applewood Farmhouse in Sevierville, Tenn. These delicious little nuggets are served with every meal at the restaurant. Some folks can make a meal off of the fritters alone, served up with tangy apple butter.

Stir dry ingredients into milk mixture with a spoon until blended. Drop batter by spoonfuls into ½-inch hot oil. Fry to a golden brown. Drain well. Serve with apple butter or confectioner’s sugar.

Instructions:

Combine in bowl:½ cup milk1 egg2 tablespoons margarine

Add:Grated rind and juice from ½ orange½ cup chopped apples (skin on) ½ teaspoon vanilla extract

Combine in another bowl:1 ½ cups sifted cake flour¼ teaspoon salt1 tablespoon baking powder

I just got to thinking how Allegro Club chapters select the places they go camping. Some of them are really creative. Others say they get in a slump and seem to go to the same places every year. Why not take a new approach and put some spice in those outings? That might even spice up your life too. Dare to be different. Instead of going back to the same campground you went to last year, maybe you could find one near a little town where the local fire department or scout troop is holding a Saturday morning all-you-can-eat pancake breakfast. That would be cool. Maybe an area where they’re planning a weekend festival of some sort. Ever thought about volunteering your chapter to do something special for the less fortunate or other charitable event? How about helping with a neighborhood or roadside clean-up?Another idea would be to camp near some small town where there’s going to be a little kids t-ball or soccer game. To say that watching these little characters in action can make you feel younger would be an understatement. They are an absolute riot. Carol and I did just that; camped near a small farm town which actually seemed deserted one Saturday morning. Seems everyone from miles around was at the ballpark to see a t-ball game. Excitement was already at a fever pitch by the time we arrived. As we looked down on the diamond we saw this tiny blonde girl with a ponytail sticking out the back of her ball cap dragging a bat behind her as she approached the plate. The umpire placed the ball on the tee, then stepped back. The little batter tilted her head way back so she could see from under the bill of the cap. She stared at the ball for a couple of seconds, drew way back and swung with all her might just as her cap dropped down over her face. The bat however struck full force sending the ball on its way to right field kicking up dust. Mom’s voice could be heard above the rest of the crowd, “Run, Sweetie, run!” Both teams, including the blonde batter, ran after the ball as the crowd went ballistic. At the same time one baserunner split away from the pack and headed for second base. In the midst of the excitement his dad was yelling, “Head for home buddy, head for home!” The little fellow made a sharp left, and without hesitation ran across the pitcher’s mound, jumped as high as he could and landed on home plate. Why not? No one else was there. They were all chasing that ball.

I have to tell you, it made our day. I still laugh when I think about it. And these little people are our

future leaders. Back to events. I talked to Lonnie Louviere, Pelican Allegros president in Louisiana. Louviere told me about his chapter’s recent Christmas event. Legend has it that one Christmas Eve, Rudolph the Red-Nosed Reindeer couldn’t find his way

around the Cajun swamps, so Santa called on old Garson the Green-Nosed Alligator to lead his sleigh.

The Pelican Allegros decided to have a Christmas windshield display contest. The winning couple created a

display depicting pelicans pulling Santa’s sleigh in their front wind-shield. It was awesome.

Louviere says his chapter elects a new wagonmaster yearly, but everyone in the chapter assists in locating new places to go. This takes the load off just one couple. Some members will spend hours – sometimes stretched across several months – researching campgrounds to recommend. They inspect the height of tree branches, restaurant capacity and destination attractions. Sounds like the Pelican Allegros have a great system. Shows belonging to an Allegro Club chapter can be both fun and informative. Sometimes, planning campouts can add a little spice to your life.

6 SIDE ROADS

The Yankee Doodler Cartoonist Bob Poiry

Spice up your next Allegro Club outingby Bob Poiry

2011 Allegro Club Rally Schedule

For additional information visit: www.tiffinmotorhomes.com/tiffinOwners/tiffinRallies.php [email protected]. You can also Phone: (256) 356-8522 Fax: (256) 356-9746

or write: Allegro Club P.O. Box 1429 Red Bay, AL 35582-1429

Allegro Club Lake Texoma Spring RallyThousand Trails Lake TexomaGordonville, TXMay 2-5, 2011 (break camp May 6)

Tiffin Motorhomes/B. Young RV RallyMount Hood Village RV ResortWelches, ORJune 7-9, 2011 (break camp June 10)

Allegro Club Fall Foxboro RallyNormandy Farms Family Camping ResortFoxboro, MASeptember 26-29, 2011 (break camp September 30)

SIDE ROADS 7

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#Allegro Club Lake Texoma Rally

May 2 - May 5, 2011 (Checkout May 6)

Thousand Trails Lake Texoma / Gordonville, TX

Cost Includes: 4 nights camping fee, W/E (30 amps), several meals, entertainment and activities. Vogt Motor Homes will display the latest Tiffin motor homes for your viewing. Plenty of food, fun, and fellowship.

Attention: Early arrivals and late departures should be handled on your own by

calling Thousand Trails Lake Texoma at (800) 570-5835.

Resort website: http://www.thousandtrails.com/getaways/texas/laketexoma.asp

Important: The Allegro Club has planned this event based upon claim

assumptions, including a minimum number of participants. On occasion,

circumstances arise which make the event impractical. Accordingly, the Allegro

Club reserves the right to cancel the event for any reason, at any time, and without

obligation beyond refund of any prepaid fees for the cancelled event.

By registering for this event, you acknowledge and agree to the following

statements: “I understand that neither the Allegro Club, Tiffin Motorhomes,

Inc., nor any campground, restaurant, bus service, or supplier assume any

responsibility, directly or indirectly, for the use or operation of a car or

recreational vehicle going to or from or during the rally; or for injuries or

illness before, during, or after the rally; or damage to or loss of property of

any kind before, during, or after the event; and I also grant permission for the

use of photographs, videotape, written or verbal testimonials, and other media

from the rally depicting registrants and their guests for promotional purposes

by Tiffin Motorhomes Inc. and the Allegro Club.”

Cost: Allegro Club member motor home with two (2) people / $449 • Allegro Club member motor home with one (1)person / $269 • Non-member motor home with two (2) people / $649 • Non-member motor home with one (1) person / $469 • Each additional guest / $175 Total Cost: (Payment must accompany application) $

209 Thousand Trails Drive • Gordonville, TX 76245 800-570-5835

Number of people Amount enclosed (full payment required) $ Name: Companion:Mailing Address (Street):(City/State/Zip):Email address:Cell phone number: Allegro Club #: Chapter #:Name of guest(s) in member’s motor home:We wish to park with our chapter (listed above) or individual:

Participants wishing to park together must send registration and rally fee in together!q Allegro q Allegro Breeze q Allegro RED q Allegro Bay q Phaeton q Allegro Bus q Zephyr q OtherMotor home length: Year Model: License plate # : State: # Slides Right: Left:Motor home VIN# Tow vehicle make: My chassis is: q Ford q Workhorse q Chevrolet q Spartan q Freightliner q PowerGlide q Other:

YES q / NO q We wish to park in the handicapped section. (Enclose Handicapped Certification copy with your registration.)YES q / NO q We will bring our pet(s). YES q / NO q First time at an Allegro Club rally?

Get your reservations in early. Limited number of spaces available. Refund deadline is March 21, 2011. Cancellation fee $30 before deadline.

No refunds will be made in part or whole after the refund deadline.Travel insurance is an option available through Farm & City Insurance (800) 331-1520.

Payment must be submitted with application. Send check or money order, or fill out complete credit card information below:q Visa q Master Card q DiscoverCredit Card Number: Expiration Date___ ___ ___ ___ / ___ ___ ___ ___ / ___ ___ ___ ___ / ___ ___ ___ ___ ___ ___ / ___ ___ 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 12 13 14 15 16 Month Year

Signature:

To send your registration by FAX: (256) 356-9746; by Mail with check made payable to: Allegro Club, P.O. Box 1429, Red Bay, AL 35582-1429; by Email scan the completed form and attach as a PDF to: [email protected];

by Phone: (256) 356-8522; on the Website at http://tiffinmotorhomes.com/tiffinOwners/tiffinRallies.php.

What the owners say: Testing the 34 QFA Allegro REDour REvIEwERSFor 40 years, Las

Vegas residents Hazeland Larry Burke have camped in astation wagon, pickuptruck bed, travel trailer tent, pop-up,and five different motor homes. TheAllegro RED is theirfirst Tiffin product.

With their dog Corky, and occasionally their daughter and/or grandson for shorter trips, they have been on-the-go since retirement in 2000. Their typical adventure is a two- to three-week jaunt to the Oregon coast, Quartzsite, AZ, or central Illinois to visit family. In between, they take in the parks of Nevada, Arizona, California and [email protected] 702-269-9549

TURnIng radius, road HAnDLIng and STABILITy

Turning radius is great. Road handling and stability are as good as anything I have ever driven. Thirty mph crosswinds are no fun even in an Allegro RED.

POwER/TORqUE

Power and torque are just adequate for towing our Jeep Wrangler up 6% grades where speed drops to about 40 mph in fourth gear. On small hills, gear changes between fifth and sixth are smooth and quiet.

LEARnIng CURvE for MAInTEnAnCE, ELECTROnICS, and other features

Most of the features are easy to learn and use. DEF (low-sulphur diesel exhaust fluid) is a bit of a nuisance.

nOISE level (both PARkED and MOvIng)

Noise level in motion is mostly wind and tire noise.Engine noise is negligible. HVAC produces the mostnoise when parked. Overall this coach is as quiet asmost and quieter than some others.

efficiency of HEATIng and COOLIng SySTEMSHeat pumps do not work below about 40 degrees but

propane heat keeps the coach warm down into the 20s. Dash heat is not adequate for cold weather. We haven’t used the AC yet.

SPACIOUSnESS of LIvIng room

The coach is very spacious when parked. On the road, there is barely enough room to get to the refrigerator and bathroom. We extend the front passenger side slide when parked in a rest area.

ATTRACTIvEnESS of interior DECORATIOn

Interior decoration is very nice and all high quality. This is the nicest, most luxurious coach we have ever owned and the things we like far outweigh the things we would change.

wORkABILITy of gALLEy

The galley counter space is adequate. The pantry should be a slide out style so you can get to the stuff that slides to the back.

comfort and USABILITy of BATHROOM

Bathroom usability is okay. We added a towel bar in the shower. The toilet paper holder is a joke!

LIvABILITy of BEDROOM

The bedroom has loads of storage space. We are not big people and a queen-size bed would be easier to make and to walk around. Big folks would prefer the king-size bed.

8 SIDE ROADS

“Three Tv sets is overkill. I justwish the coach had tire pressure monitors instead of one of the TVs.”

What the owners say: Testing the 34 QFA Allegro RED

SIDE ROADS 9

our REvIEwERSNewbies to RVing

life, Caron Tindaleand Chris Bull of Newmarket, Ontarioare eager for full-timetravel in the U.S. and Canada with Dixie, their black lab. Retiring soon,they have their houseon the market, and

are ready to live their dream as vagabonds. At the RV show in Hershey, PA last fall, they say they knew immediately that the Allegro RED was exactly right – layout, quality, Freightliner chassis, Cummins engine, extras, and Tiffin warranties. Chris is a retired firefighter whose many years of driving a large rig through tight spots in Toronto prepared him wellfor this next phase. [email protected] [email protected] 905-953-0218

TURnIng radius, road HAnDLIng and STABILITy

Chris says the 55-degree turning radius is very maneuverable, the rig is very comfortable to drive, and turning, handling and acceleration are all good. Chris and Caron have worked out backing-up teamwork and park the rig with ease. Caron plans to qualify behind the wheel in case of emergencies.

POwER/TORqUE

Very impressive. Chris is not disappointed at all withthe acceleration up to highway speeds but he has onlydriven the coach unloaded so far.

LEARnIng CURvE for MAInTEnAnCE, ELECTROnICS, and other features

Camped at Colton RV for three nights while testing the systems, Caron says technicians were always nearby to make adjustments or answer questions. Instructions on all the systems and troublshooting were thorough, friendly and caring. Support binder has a wealth of helpful information.

nOISE level (both PARkED and MOvIng)

Rear engine is very quiet in the driving compartment. They experienced some minimal whistling wind noises.

efficiency of HEATIng and COOLIng SySTEMSWith temperatures 5-10 degrees below freezing, the two

furnaces kept them warm. No testing of the AC yet.

SPACIOUSnESS of LIvIng room

Chris says it is airy, bright and comfortable. Caron adds they felt quite cozy in their well-heated living room, listening to music watching their 46-in HDTV.

ATTRACTIvEnESS of interior DECORATIOn

We really like it, Chris says. Color coordination is very pleasing.

wORkABILITy of gALLEy

Caron loves to cook and bake. She and Chris found the galley easy to use. Plenty of space for appliances, dishes, cooking tools and dry goods storage. The dual sink with separate cover increases counter space.

comfort and USABILITy of BATHROOM

The bathroom including shower and bathtub are fantastic, bright and offering plenty of storage.

LIvABILITy of BEDROOM

The bedroom also has a lot of storage and the optional king bed is very comfortable and cozy. They haven’t tried the washer and dryer yet.

“The rig is very comfortable to drive, and the turning, handling and acceleration are all good.”

SoldoutQ A&

What you need to know for Red Bay service visit Just on the way to Florida and thought you’d drop by your Phaeton’s birthplace? Heard so much about the fried catfish at Swamp John’s eatery? Always wanted to see the holiday decorations in downtown Red Bay, AL? The following set of frequently asked questions may help you schedule work at the Tiffin Service Center. For additional information, please contact Parts and Service at [email protected] or 256-356-0261.

Q: We are planning a trip and would like to stop by Red Bay for some service. Do we need to get a service appointment? How about a reservation for the Allegro Campground?A: Appointments are strongly recommended for service, and the process is covered below. The Allegro Campground operates on a first-come basis. Campground reservations are not available. Q: Are there months of the year that are less busy at the Service Center, when we might get our coach worked on quicker?A: Yes. Winter months are the slowest, especially January and February. In the summer, July and August are still busy, but not quite at the level of the rest of the summer. Spring and Fall are typically quite crowded. Q: What is the capacity of the Allegro Campground and are all sites full-service 50 amps?A: We have 104 sites, 93 with full hookup 50 amp service,water and sewer, eight with water and electricity only, and three with electricity only. Q: Is there a different procedure for body work than formechanical work?A: No. When you arrive you will be given a repair number anda questionnaire to complete with your name, address, motor home information and repair needs. After your information is turned in, within the next day, Norris Lewey or Jimmy Oliver will assign your coach to a repair department such as windshield, welding shop or body shop. That does not necessarily mean work will start on your coach right away. The waiting time for service varies by department depending on the number of other Tiffin owners ahead of you.

Q: Without an appointment, what is the average waiting time for service?A: The wait can range from the day you arrive to as long as two weeks, depending on the volume of owners there and their service needs.

Q: When can I make an appointment for repair work?A: New procedures are in place for making service reservations in 2011. On July 1, 2010, we began accepting appointments for January, February, and March 2011. Beginning January 3, 2011, we began making appointments for April, May, and June 2011. On April 1, 2011, we will start taking appointments for July, August, and September 2011. On July 1, 2011 service reservations will open for October, November, and December 2011. Call Peggy Elliott at 256-356-0261, extension 3206, for service appointments. You may have to leave a message for her. Appointments can be made by phone only – not by email. Q: What happens if we get to Red Bay and find the Allegro Campground is full?A: You have several options available. You can dry camp at thecampground area until we can move you to a full service site. You may want to consider staying temporarily at one of several local campgrounds until an Allegro Campground site opens. Red Bay Self Service RV Park, a new campground near the Service Center, has 10 full-service spaces. Red Bay Self Service RV Park can be reached at 256-668-0526. Q: Do all Tiffin dealerships provide factory-authorized service?A: Yes. Most of our dealerships will work on their customers’ coaches first, but they are authorized to work on any Tiffin coach. Q: How do we determine whether individual technicians atdealerships and other service centers are competent and well trained to work on our Tiffin coach?A: That’s a good question. Informal campground chat or other customer feedback is generally helpful. Technicians at all Tiffin dealerships can call the Tiffin Service Center for consultation if they run into an unusual repair problem. The Recreational Vehicle Industry Association also offers training programs leading to the designation of certified and master-certified technicians.

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#Tiffin Motorhomes / B. Young Mount Hood Rally

June 7 - June 9, 2011 (Checkout June 10)

Mount Hood Village RV Resort / Welches, OR

Cost Includes: 3 nights camping fee, full hookups (50 amps), several meals, entertainment and activities. B. Young RV will display the latest Tiffin motor homes for your viewing. Plenty of food, fun, and fellowship.


calling Mount Hood Village RV Resort at (877) 570-2267.

Resort website: http:// www.rvonthego.com/Mt-Hood-Village-RV- Resort.html

















65000 E. Hwy 26 • Welches, OR 97067 • 877-570-2267




Get your reservations in early. Limited number of spaces available. Refund deadline is April 26, 2011. Cancellation fee $30 before deadline.



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12 SIDE ROADS

Campgrounds

The Three Rivers Allegros say Evergreen Park RV Resort in Dundee, OH is an “exceptional facility” with an indoor pool, laundry, store, exercise room and secluded pavilions. In the heart of Amish country, the area has quaint shops, sights and baked goods. Megunticook Campground By the Sea in Rockport, ME, along Penobscot Bay, caters to NASCAR fans, since it is a mere 120 miles from New Hampshire Motor Speedway in Loudon. The Moose Country Allegros report that a drive-in movie-type outdoor screen accommodates race fans, plus live bands perform Saturday nights. The chapter also recommends Fryburg Fair Campground in Fryburg, ME. The chapterdoesn’t say much about the campground, but these folks go on and on about the fair, one of the oldest in New England. It has agricultural exhibits, horseracing, musical entertainment, horse and ox pulling events, amusement rides, fried dough, clam chowder and other fair fare. The chapter also likes Pemi River Campground in Thornton, NH,a beautiful country location with bicycling and river tubing opportunities.

The Central Florida Allegros trekked to the French Quarter RV Resort in New Orleans. The campground (not necessarily the French Quarter) was described by the chapter as very clean, upscale, with a very efficient security system and an easy daytime walk to attractions. Attention hardy souls: Steens Mountain Wilderness Resort in French Glen, OR, may need some cosmetic touches, but the Columbia River Allegros note it is on a

terraced hillside overlooking Malheur National Wildlife Refuge. Fill your fuel tank and take food plus medical supplies. To ride the Steens Mountain Loop Tour, which includes Kiger Gorge, where wild horses run, you will need an SUV with a good spare tire. The chapter members had three flats in one day. The chapter also recommends Devil’s Lake RV Park in Lincoln City, OR, as a well-maintained Good Sam park with 80 full-service 30 to 50 amp spaces (47 pull-through spaces), cable TV, pets welcome, meeting room, kitchen and views of the lake and golf course. You are advised to make reservations and ask about special winter rates. Just down the Pacific Coast, the Battleborn Allegros like Campground by the Lake in South Lake Tahoe, CA, where the wind was gently blowing through lush green pines. It’s a very nice campground with hiking trails and other activities. Also in California, the Gold Rush Allegros recommend Far Horizon 49er Village RV Park in Plymouth. Chapter Reporter John Cordoni offers a model campground report: “This is a rustic RV park located in the heart of Mother Lode country of the Sierra Nevada foothills. The park has over 100 spaces, ponds, nice trees/grass, paved driveways and pads. It has 30 and 50 amp sites and full hookups including cable TV. It is an older park with several facilities for small to large wedding-type groups. There are two pools, one covered for winter use, hot tubs and playgrounds for small children. There is

a small restaurant and store on site as well as a coffee counter, which also serves morning-style bakery items and ice cream.” The chapter also recommends AlmondTree RV Park in Chico, CA, with 50 full-hookup 50 amp spaces, nice landscaping, privacy, level pads, gravel driveways, cable

TV and a clubhouse with kitchen and pool. Clio’s Rivers Edge in Clio, CA, gets thechapter’s thumbs-up too for woods, paved driveways, level graveled sites, full hookups, a small clubhouse with a full kitchen plus golfing and fishing nearby. A former Air Force base, the Sampson State Park in Romulus, NY, gets the nod from the Niagara Frontier Allegros for beautiful grounds, and miles of blacktop for bike

riding. On the grounds is a Naval and Air Force Museum and wineries are nearby. In Gordonville, PA, the Nutmeg Allegros give good grades to CountryAcres Campground as an excellentgathering place for meals and meetings with a friendly, accommodating staff. The chapter also recommends Atlantic Oaks RV Park in Eastham, MA, between Provincetown and Chatham. It’s very friendly and on a beautiful lake.

Restaurants

Historic Frenchglen Hotel (reservationsonly) in Frenchglen, OR, caught Columbia River Allegros’ attention. Built in 1916 and restored by the Civilian Conservation Corps in 1930, the family-style meals are great. If that hotel sounds too new, check out the eatery in the Diamond Hotel, established in 1898 as a supply point for cattle and sheep folks. Fields Station, opened in 1881 was a favorite of freight haulers and travelers, now a café/service station/motel/post office. The chapter also recommends three eateries in Lincoln City, OR: Mo’s (famous chowder and other

Chapter Chatter: Maine campground caters to NASCAR fans

(Continued on Page 14)

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#Allegro Club Foxboro Rally

September 26 - September 29, 2011 (Checkout September 30)

Normandy Farms Family Camping Resort / Foxboro, MA

Cost Includes: 4 nights camping fee, full hookups (30 amps), several meals, entertainment and activities. Dealers will display the latest Tiffin motor homes for your viewing. Plenty of food, fun, and fellowship.


calling Normandy Farms Family Camping Resort at (866) 673-2767.

Resort website: http://www.normandyfarms.com

















72 West Street • Foxboro, MA 02035 866-673-2767




Get your reservations in early. Limited number of spaces available. Refund deadline is August 15, 2011. Cancellation fee $30 before deadline.



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14 SIDE ROADS

Tiffin Motorhomes has been honored with one of only three Quality Circle Awards presented by the Recreational Vehicle Dealers Association to Class A motor home manufacturers in 2010 for top-rank design, reliability, quality, value and competitive price. A total of 423 RV dealers provided 2,125 ratings in the Dealer Satisfaction Index survey conducted earlier this year. Tiffin’s ratings substantially exceeded the motorized industry average in seven surveyed categories: vehicle design, vehicle reliability/quality, competitive price/value, dealership warranty support, parts support, overall dealer communications and sales territory. The Quality Circle Award is presented by the RVDA to manufacturers which received at least 15 dealer responses and scored 80 percent or above in overall dealer satisfaction. The 2010 Quality Circle Award is Tiffin’s 12th. “The Dealer Satisfaction Index is one major indicator of our primary goal of customer satisfaction,” said Tim Tiffin, general manager. “We are

gratified that our ratings reflect across-the-board the standards we set in terms of customer service, innovative engineering, quality, value and outstanding dealer support. Our continuing industry leadership in the DSI is both gratifying and challenging. Now we dedicate our efforts to maintaining and enhancing our customer and dealer confidence.”

Tiffin receives Quality Circle Award

seafood), Dory Cove (seafood), and Hilltop Inn (American cuisine). Niagara Falls Allegros tout Carmine’s in Williamsville, NY, as a great place for authentic Italian food. The chapter also likes Crow’s Nest on Seneca Lake in Waterloo, NY, for exceptional atmosphere and food. For a great Cape Cod dinner, try Arnold’s Seafood Restaurant in Eastham, MA, according to the Nutmeg Allegros. Deanie’s Seafood, Oceana and the Café Du Monde topped the Central Florida Allegros’ eatery list in New Orleans. Also in Louisiana, the Pelican Allegros, camping in Beaux Bridge, recommended Crawfish Town (especially the bountiful seafood and eggplant) and, for a hearty zydeco breakfast with good food, music and dance, Café des Amis. The chapter also likes Mack’s on the River’s seafood buffetin Hattiesburg, MS, and the Fresh CatchRestaurant in Marksville, LA. Dine at the Jackson Rancheria Casino in Jackson, CA, say the Gold Rush Allegros, where you will find buffet style dining, a steakhouse and a food court. Mad River Tavern in Thornton, NH, is a pick of the Moose Country Allegros for very good food.

Destination Attractions

The Wendell August Showroom in Berlin, OH has a great selection of hammered aluminum art, report the Three Rivers Allegros. And while you are in the neighborhood, check out Lehman Hardware to soak up Amish culture. Try the hot spring in the borax works at Alvord Desert in Frenchglen, OR, suggest the Columbia River Allegros. The Arizona Allegros gazed in awe at the Kitt Peak National Observatory in Tucson. Even on a sunny day, they were able to see sunspots and gas releases. The French Quarter, Jackson Square, Bourbon Street, the Lower 9th Ward and the Industrial Canal Levee, Brad Pitt’s Make It Right Homes, Musicians Village, historic cemeteries and the Garden Districtwere just some of the stops on a city tour of New Orleans enjoyed by the Central Florida Allegros. The chapter also took a two-hour Steamboat Natchez Cruise with buffet lunch on the Mississippi. In the vicinity of Plymouth, CA, the Gold Rush Allegros discovered Black Chasm Cavern, a national historic landmark with interesting rock formations; Sutter Mine which is a working gold mine; a wealth of wineries; and antique shops galore. In Chico, CA, the chapter found Bidwell Historic Mansion, Bidwell Park with a swimming

creek and picnic facilities, a Friday night outdoor theater downtown, great shopping plus nearby Butte Mountain for hiking. Whales, big seals, tiger sharks, the Cape Cod National Seashore, shopping, and a ferry to Martha’s Vineyard are all withinreach in the Provincetown, MA, area, report the Nutmeg Allegros. Off the Oregon coast, you can see the same or different whales in the Lincoln City area, report the Columbia River Allegros, in addition to doing some deep sea fishing, crabbing, gambling, outlet shopping, golfing and lighthouse visiting. If you can keep your eyes open at 2 a.m. as the Moose Country Allegros did in Thornton, NH, you may see moose. In late August, you can also hear blues and jazzat the annualmusic festival.

Chapter Chatter: (Continued from Page 12)

Through Billy Tinney’s lensBilly and Tammy Tinney’s Phaeton does not have smokestacks, nor are smokestacks optional equipment on Tiffin coaches. In the soft early light of Baja, with cacti in the background, Billy once again demonstrates his photographic talents, which earned him the title of senior photographer for Easyrider Group, publisher of a dozen magazines.

De-Winterize The following checklist is used by Tiffin service technicians for de-winterizing:

b Connect water hose to city water connection.b Close holding tank gate valves.b Place water valve to tank fill and put some water in the tank.b With low-point drain valves and pump drain open turn on water pump and flush out antifreeze.b Close drain valves and place water valve to city water.b Close faucets and allow water to fill heater.b Open faucets to allow air to escape.b Turn on water heater switch and 110 breaker at breaker box.

bFor additional information, contact the Tiffin Service Department at

256-356-0261.

Some Norcold® cooling units recalled Some cooling units in the Norcold refrigerators installed in Tiffin motor homes have been recalled. Norcold Inc., a manufacturer of RV refrigerators, has extended a previous recall to include 528 refrigerators in 2001-3 Tiffin motor homes. On July 22, 2002 Norcold announced a safety recall to address a potential fatigue failure in cooling units in Norcold model numbers 1200LR and 1200RIM built from December 1, 2001. Norcold has expanded therecall to include Norcold models 1200LR, 1200LRIM and 1201LRIM manufactured from March 1, 2001 to December 31, 2002. The Norcold refrigerators in the expanded recall have serial numbers between 1273701 and 1536607, non-consecutively. According to Norcold, “The nature of the defect is a fatigue failure in the section of the cooling unit which contains the refrigerant. This fatigue could allow the liquid solution to slowly leak from the cooling unit. If a leak occurs and the refrigerator continues to be operated after solution circulation has ceased the heat source could generate very high

temperatures. At such high temperatures the steel material of the cooling unit could soften and rupture. If refrigerant gas is still in place when the rupture occurs hydrogen gas may be expelled and could be ignited by the high temperature, possibly causing a fire.” The cooling unit serial number is located on the solution chamber, which can be viewed through the refrigerator vent door on the outside of your coach. The serial number on the cooling unit differs from the serial number of your refrigerator. If your refrigerator is part of the recall, it requires retrofitting with a thermal switch kit. Extended operation of a leaking cooling unit could cause a fire, resulting in personal injury (including death) and/or property damage. Set the controls to “OFF” and unplug the refrigerator through the service vent on the outside of the vehicle. Call Norcold’s Recall Center at 800-767-9101 or visit Norcold’s website at http://www.norcold.com to arrange a service date and to help you locate the nearest service center. Parts and labor for this repair will be at no charge.

SIDE ROADS 15

P.O. BOX 1429RED BAy, AL 35582ADDRESS SERvICE

REQUESTED

PRESORTED STAnDARDU.S. POSTAGE PAID

PERMIT # 159BIRMInGHAM, AL

If you’re reading this newsletter, you’re enjoying one of the benefits of Allegro Club membership. Other benefits include rallies, local chapters and discounts on insurance, campsite fees, and car rentals. When you buy a new Tiffin motor home, the first year of Allegro Club membership is free. After that, a one-year

membership is $25, a two-year membership is $46, and a three-year membership is $70, payable by check or credit card. For credit card payment, call (256) 356-8522. We want you to continue your membership and help us build our numbers by recruiting other owners of Tiffin Motorhomes.

Become an Allegro Club member or update your address info

Names:

Nickname for Allegro Club ID badge #1:

Nickname for Allegro Club ID badge #2:

Email:

Home Phone: ( ) – Alternate Phone: ( ) –

Serial No. of Your Tiffin Motorhome: Chassis type: VIN:

Are you interested in joining or starting a local chapter of the Allegro Club?

Name of dealer where motorhome was purchased: Date of Purchase:

Address:

City: State: Zip:

The 12-volt breaker shown in this photograph is common in all

Tiffin motor homes. A common inquiry to our service technicians is a coach’s refrigerator, furnace or other appliance is not working.

The 12-volt breaker is one of the first things to check to make sure it hasn’t tripped. The technicians walk the owners through the

simple reset process of pressing the small black reset button on the end of the breaker.

Without a flashlight and an understanding of what to look for, even with a technician on the phone, this process can be frustrating.

Let’s hope that this picture worth a thousand words can help get power flowing again so owners can continue to enjoy their great Tiffin coaches.

Tech Tips by Ricky Johnson

Have a question of general interest about your Tiffin motor home for Ricky Johnson and his co-workers? Want to share a clever solution to a pesky problem? Email [email protected]. While information presented in this column comes from Tiffin technicians, we offer no expressed or implied guarantee this general advice will resolve a specific problem in your coach. Inspection by a technician at a Tiffin dealership or the Tiffin Service Center in Red Bay, AL, is generally recognized as the most effective approach to a problem with your rig.

New Dealers:• Bretz RV 3318 Caldwell Boulevard Nampa, ID 83651 208-467-2533• Chesaco Motors, Inc. 911 Pulaski Highway Joppa, MD 21085 410-679-0000• Northside RV’s, Inc. 1630 North Broadway Lexington, KY 40505 859-299-8386• RV Connections, Inc. 3926 East 15th Street Panama City, FL 32404 850-763-6910• Tom Raper RV 1305 SR 42 London, OH 43140 614-871-9800

Ricky Johnson has served in the Tiffin Parts and Service Department for the past 19 years.

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