RV Products

Navigation System

According to product literature, the iWAY 600c from Lowrance Electronics Inc. is the first portable GPS navigation device to offer dual routing capability, allowing users to navigate both highways and waterways.

The iWay 600c, which includes a 30-gigabyte internal hard drive, comes preloaded with NAVTEQ digital map data of the United States and Canada, plus electronic charts with depth contours for U.S. inland lakes, the Great Lakes, and coastal waters. The database includes 5.5 million points of interest, such as restaurants, gas stations, and leisure facilities.

The unit also can provide digital satellite imagery of hundreds of U.S. and Canadian cities, with highways and streets overlaid. Other features include 5 gigabytes of hard drive space to store JPEG image files and MP3 and Ogg Vorbis format audio files for replay. A built-in full-spectrum FM modulator can wirelessly stream music and voice navigation directions through an open FM radio channel.

The iWay 600c has a manufacturer's suggested retail price of $799.

For more information, contact:
Lowrance Electronics Inc.
12000 E. Skelly Drive
Tulsa, OK 74128
(800) 324-1356 (United States)
(800) 661-3983 (Canada)
www.lowrance.com

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Digital Picture Frames

Axion has introduced a line of digital picture frames with LCD screens that allow folks to display their favorite images and change them as often as they like.

The seven-inch digital frame supports JPEG picture viewing with the ability to store up to 20 pictures in its internal memory. The eight-inch and nine-inch frames support JPEG photo viewing and music (MP3), while the 10-inch frame adds video (MPEG4) playback to its list of features.

All frames come with a USB cable that can be used to download files from a computer or digital camera and also support SD, MC, and Sony Memory Stick flash media types. Also included are a remote control and an AC adapter (the seven-inch frame also can be powered with six AA batteries).

The Axion digital picture frames have manufacturer's suggested retail prices that range between $99.99 and $229.99.

For more information, contact:
Axion
100 Exchange Place
Pomona, CA 91768
(800) 982-3389
(909) 869-6600
www.axiontv.com

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Holding Tank Heaters

UltraHeat Heater pads are said to be more efficient at keeping the contents of holding tanks from freezing than forced-air heating, because the heaters provide direct heat to the tank.

The heating elements used in UltraHeat Heaters are housed inside pads that adhere to the bottom of holding tanks. Installation involves simply peeling the cover from the adhesive side of the heater; positioning the pad to the low point of the bottom of the holding tank; then pressing the pad down over the entire surface of the tank. Connect the wiring to a 12-volt-DC or 120-volt-AC electric source and the heater is ready to use.

According to product literature, the heaters, which are the same as those used by many motorhome manufacturers on new coaches, have been "cold room" tested to provide freeze protection down to -11 degrees Fahrenheit.

UltraHeat Heaters have manufacturer's suggested retail prices that range between $91.27 (up to 25-gallon tank) and $121.84 (up to 60-gallon tank). Pipe and elbow heaters are also available.

For more information, contact:
UltraHeat
1314 Perkins St.
Elkhart, IN 46516
(574) 522-6594
www.ultraheat.com

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Ratcheting Wrenches

GearWrench X-Beam wrenches from Danaher Tool Group are said to feature several improvements over standard hand wrenches.

X-Beam wrenches, which are available in metric and SAE sizes, have a handle design that reportedly increases the hand contact area by 500 percent over traditional wrenches. One end of each X-Beam wrench is forged at a 90-degree angle from the other end, and the tapered handle is thicker on both sides than a standard wrench. Also, at the box end, the wrenches have a ratcheting mechanism and a 75 percent reduction in open-end outline, allowing them access to tighter spaces. Plus, the X-Beam is the first hand tool approved by the Arthritis Foundation for its ease of use.

The manufacturer's suggested retail prices for the X-Beam wrenches are $141.41 for the nine-piece SAE set (5/16-inch to 3/4-inch) and $186.17 for the 12-piece metric set (8-millimeter to 19-millimeter).

For more information, contact:
Danaher Tool Group
14600 York Road
Suite A
Sparks, MD 21152
(800) 688-8949
www.gearwrench.com

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Rope Tightening Device

According to product literature, the Figure 9 Rope Tightener from Nite Ize Inc. is the most efficient knot-free device for securing and tightening rope.

The Figure 9 can be used to secure gear and is said to eliminate the frustration of tying, adjusting, and untying knots. The device is made of strong aluminum, has no moving parts, and includes laser-engraved instructions. Just wrap the rope around the Figure 9 as instructed, pull it tight, and go.

The Figure 9 is available in large and small sizes, with three convenient combination packages that include rope for a variety of fastening applications. The large size can secure loads up to 150 pounds, while the small size secures up to 50 pounds.

The Figure 9 Tighteners have manufacturer's suggested retail prices that range between $1.99 and $8.99.

For more information, contact:
Nite Ize Inc.
5660 Central Ave.
Boulder, CO 80301
(800) 678-6483
(303) 449-2576
www.niteize.com

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Solar Charger

The Solarola from Solar Style Inc. is a compact solar charging device that can be used to charge cell phones and other personal electronic devices, such as MP3 players, or serve as a backup energy source.

The Solarola can be charged via the sun or the optional AC or DC adapters. To charge by sun, users flip the cover open to allow the sun or other light to reach the device's two solar panels. The minimum charge time is 90 minutes, while an initial full charge can be achieved via the solar panels in 12 to 14 hours. Energy is stored in a lithium-polymer battery.

To charge another device from the Solarola, simply turn on the charger and connect the two via the appropriate universal connector (sold separately or in a kit with several options). Solar Style also is the first company to offer two separate universal connector solutions (car charger or USB) that will work with any cell phone. The cell phone or other device can be used while it's being charged.

The Solarola is available in several color combinations and has a manufacturer's suggested retail price of $39.99.

For more information, contact:
Solar Style Inc.
2545 Lord Baltimore Drive
Suite F & G
Baltimore, MD 21244
(877) 837-6527
(410) 484-0010
www.solarstyle.com

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Dog Paws Cleaner

According to product literature from Bamboo, the Mud Magnet paw cleaner can be used to quickly clean a dog's wet, muddy paws before it enters the motorhome, towed vehicle, or stationary house.

The Mud Magnet cleaner is made of super-absorbent microfiber material that is said to hold up to six times its weight in dirt and water. The fingers portion of the glove can be used to clean between toes, while the mitt portion helps clean larger surfaces.

The Mud Magnet has a manufacturer's suggested retail price of $9.99.

For more information, contact:
Bamboo
16689 Schoenborn St.
North Hills, CA 91343-6113
(877) 224-7387
(818) 893-5000
www.bamboopet.com

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Spring Sleep System

The Froli Sleep System from Nickle Atlantic LLC is a do-it-yourself spring system kit that can be used under motorhome mattresses and cushions and is said to provide improved support for a better night's sleep.

The system utilizes a series of interlocking spring elements that can be adjusted from very firm to very soft, according to one's personal preference. The kits come with regular and soft springs, as well as special tension clips that can be used to stiffen a particular area even more, if desired. And since the springs have a height of approximately 1-1/2 inches, they can be used in most bunks and beds.

Two kits are available: the Star system is generally suggested for rectangular beds, while the Travel system fits any shape and can accommodate angles and curves. Starter kits outfit a single bed and have a manufacturer's suggested retail price of $169.95, with add-on packages available for $42.95.

For more information, contact:
Nickle Atlantic LLC
6258 Windham Hill Run
Alexandria, VA 22315
(888) 463-7654
(703) 924-1055
www.nickleatlantic.com

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Spare Tire Holder

The RV Tire Carrier from RV Lifts of America LLC provides a convenient method to travel with an easily accessible spare tire for your motorhome that doesn't eat up valuable storage space.

The RV Tire Carrier, which is available in two models, inserts right into the motorhome's standard hitch receiver and can accommodate 16-inch to 22-1/2-inch tires. These heavy-duty models can hold a tire that's mounted on a rim (or not mounted) and also include a receiver, which makes it possible to connect and tow a vehicle weighing up to 5,000 pounds.

The tire carrier, whose base is made of solid 2-inch steel, is powder coated to resist corrosion, and weighs between 70 and 80 pounds depending on the model.

The RV Tire Carrier has a manufacturer's suggested retail price that ranges from $395 to $449. An optional loading ramp is available for $50.

For more information, contact:
RV Lifts of America LLC
P.O. Box 20388
Cheyenne, WY 82003
(877) 454-2554 (East)
(877) 238-2548 (West)
(307) 638-8852 (Canada)
www.rvtirecarrier.com

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Road Debris Deflector

The Tow Defender from Roadmaster Inc. is said to protect your towed vehicle's finish by deflecting rocks, gravel, and other road debris down and away from the vehicle.

The Tow Defender's all-weather, heavy-duty mesh screen fits all Roadmaster motorhome-mounted tow bars with quick-disconnect release systems. The screen extends up to 45 inches long by 72 inches wide and is held in place by shock-absorbing steel struts, which are said to provide maximum durability, support, and cornering flexibility. For storage once you've reached your destination, the 14.5-pound deflector rolls up to 4 inches in diameter and is held in place by elastic straps.

The Tow Defender has a manufacturer's suggested retail price of $395.

For more information, contact:
Roadmaster Inc.
5602 N.E. Skyport Way
Portland, OR 97218
(800) 669-9690
(503) 288-9898
www.roadmasterinc.com

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