Terry & Terri Roberts (22978)
Regional Directors
As the days grow longer and the chill of winter fades, spring welcomes us back to the open road, promising new adventures, and the camaraderie that makes the NKK family so special. It’s time to load up your coach, map out the routes, and prepare for another fantastic season of rallies, exploration, and memories.
Region 2 is gearing up for a fun-filled year with a variety of rallies to choose from. Be sure to mark your calendars and get registered for these exciting events:
- Oregon Explorers Chapter Rally | May 4-8 | Winchester Bay, OR
- Idaho Gems Chapter Rally | May 14-18 | Ambassador RV Park, Caldwell, ID
- Evergreen Aires Chapter Rally | July 13-17 | Poulsbo, WA
- Washington State Rally | September 12-16 | Goldendale, WA
- Oregon State Rally | September 18-22 | Seven Feathers Resort, Canyonville, OR
In addition, our Region 2 Rally is still in the planning stages but is tentatively set for late August or early September. Stay tuned for details as we finalize the location and dates!
We also want to send best wishes and safe travels to our Region 2 members making the journey east to the NKK International Rally in Lewisburg, West Virginia, June 7-14. It’s sure to be an incredible gathering of Newmar owners from across the country, filled with learning, laughter, and lasting friendships.
Preparing your Newmar motorhome for summer travel means ensuring all systems, including the air brakes, are in top condition. Here are three key safety checks to complete before hitting the road:
- Air Brake System Inspection
A properly functioning air brake system is essential for safe motorhome operation. Before departure, perform a brake air pressure test.
CDL Air Brakes – Seven Step Check
The Seven-Step Air Brake check is designed to test the governor cut-in and cut-out pressures, air pressure leakage, warning buzzer, brake valves and air pressure rebuild rates.
Brakes off means the yellow and/or red valve is pushed in (on = valve out).
- Engine on / Brakes on – check gauges to make sure governor cuts compressor off at 120
- Pump brakes until pressure drops below 100 psi to make sure governor cuts compressor on.
- Engine off / Brakes off – do not touch brakes – watch gauges to make sure pressure does not drop more than 3 psi in one minute.
- Press and hold brake pedal – watch gauges to make sure pressure does not drop more than 4 psi in one minute.
- Turn- key on / Engine off / Brakes off – pump brake until pressure drops to 60 psi – warning buzzer should sound at or before 60 psi.
- Continue pumping brakes until reaching 20 to 40 psi – Emergency (red) and Service (yellow) brake valves should pop out turning brakes on.
- Rebuild air pressure in tank – hold accelerator at 1500 RPM. Watch air gauges and notice that pressure rate of build between 85 psi and 100 psi should not take more than 45 seconds.
- Perform tug tests. Tug against Parking Brake only. Tug against Emergency
Brake only. Tug against Hand Brake only. Test service brake by accelerating to 5mph and pressing brake pedal. If vehicle pulls to one side, this indicates a brake alignment problem.
If there is a problem discovered while testing the Air Brakes, do not drive the vehicle. It is your responsibility to make sure it is repaired by a mechanic. Never operate a vehicle that is unsafe to drive.
- Tire Condition & Pressure Check
Inspect all tires for cracks, bulges, or uneven tread wear, and confirm they are inflated to the manufacturer’s recommended PSI. Underinflated or aged tires are a leading cause of blowouts, so replace any that are past their lifespan (typically 5-7 years) and always check pressure when tires are cold. Don’t forget to inspect the inner duals and spare tire, if applicable.
- Lighting & Safety Equipment Check
Test all exterior lights, including brake lights, turn signals, headlights, and clearance lights, to ensure visibility on the road. Inside, verify that smoke and carbon monoxide detectors are functioning and have fresh batteries. Check your fire extinguisher’s pressure gauge to ensure it’s charged and accessible in case of emergency.
Performing these safety checks before each trip can help prevent breakdowns and keep you and your passengers safe while enjoying the open road. Safe travels and see you at the next rally!
DO YOUR PART TO KEEP OUR ROADS AND HIGHWAYS SAFE
UPCOMING REGION 2 EVENTS
May 4-8, Oregon Explorers Chapter Rally, Winchester Bay RV Resort, Winchester, Oregon
May 14-18, Idaho Gems Chapter Rally, Ambassador RV Resort, Caldwell ID
July 13 -17, Evergreen Aires Chapter Rally, Eagle Tree RV Park, Poulsbo WA.
September 12-16, Washington State Rally, Stargazer RV Park, Goldendale, WA
September 18-22, Oregon State Rally, Seven Feathers RV Resort, Canyonville, Oregon
SEE THE KLUB CALENDAR ONLINE FOR COMPLETE DETAILS AND CONTACT
INFORMATION.
