Conversion Legalities

[CW5RLC]

On some older posts, there was mention of issues with campgrounds and the lack of RVIA certification on cargo trailer conversions, especially as it related to renting spots with power. Is this still a relevant issue? I am satisfied with using the non-power spots, but are there any other issues with "home" conversions that one should be aware of? As some background, I recently became enamoured with tricycles. I currently tour with my recumbent and mountain bike. The third bike would exceed the Tacoma's capcity. I know there are small trailer/toy hauler combos, but I don't intend to pay those prices. I have tested camping with a Tear (2004 Camp Inn) and an Aliner 400. Both were adequate, but I want the carrying capacity/space. Also, to those who might question it, no you can never have enough velocipedes.

[SirJoey]

Personally, I haven't heard anything about this, but if it IS an issue, I'd sure like to know!

Incidentally, CW, I've been "bent" since 1985!
You may find my HPV website of some interest: www.bikesandtrikesandmore.com

[Shadow Catcher]

I do not see how this would be possible to enforce. Being the naturally suspicious sort that I am I would wonder if this is a power/money grab by RVIA. RVIA standards are needed but achieving certification is costly. The Mega-Mini is built to the standards but it would up the cost to have that sticker.
I do not know of any current tear manufacturer that follows RVIA standards and some of the standards should be followed, i.e. smoke CO and gas detectors.

[steve smoot]

SirJoey,

Just checked out your website...some really neat stuff...especially liked the letter to Lowes...

[SirJoey]

SirJoey,

Just checked out your website...some really neat stuff...especially liked the letter to Lowes...

Thanx, Steve! ...and the letter to Lowes... all true, EXACTLY as described!

[CW5RLC]

Sorry for not providing details. I have gone through quite a few pages of posts in this area gathering information and now I can't quickly locate the original source. But as I understood it, the situation was precipitated by insurance requirements due to possibility of fires in the campers. I will continue to see if anyone has newer information as the original post was several years old, and lack of any further information will lead me to believe it is not as serious as was thought in the original posts.
Also, I think everyone should get "Bent", but that's another issue.

[edcasey]

Some campgrounds do require an RVIA seal. I've heard several complaints about this from people with older factory made campers that were refused entry to campgrounds because they lacked the seal. I don't know of anyone with a homebuilt camper who has been turned away. Here's an example from a Florida campground rules sheet: http://www.portcanaveral.com/recreation/images/jettyrules.pdf If you read under the "Camping:" header, it says all units must have an RVIA seal.

[CW5RLC]

Do I read that correctly? Does that say that a camper without RVIA certification will not be allowed in the campground at all? The previous posts seemed to indicate that they allowed you to use the non-power sites without the cert.

[jeep9806]

I have camped with my cargo conversion at KOA's up and down the east coast and have never had a problem.... I even talked in length with one of the owners about building it...

[sgip2000]

Some campgrounds do require an RVIA seal. I've heard several complaints about this from people with older factory made campers that were refused entry to campgrounds because they lacked the seal. I don't know of anyone with a homebuilt camper who has been turned away. Here's an example from a Florida campground rules sheet: http://www.portcanaveral.com/recreation/images/jettyrules.pdf If you read under the "Camping:" header, it says all units must have an RVIA seal.

This is why the national forests are nice. Don't cost $30-$40 per night either.

[Engineer Guy]

It sounds like, when reycling an old Commercial TTT for parts, drilling out the keeping the RVIA Metal Plate typically near the Door would be another valuable item to recycle.

Given that most folks here over-build their Projects, doing some Due Diligence and attempting to meet actually RVIA Specs in Design and Construction - vs. playing the Shell Game of costly Certification - would be a conservative and ethical way to work around this RVIA issue/roadblock.

[cam_tx]

It is my humble option that if a camp site requires it, don't give them business. There is always something better down the road.
But where I camp I don't have to worry about it. I would just yell at the property owner.
However, it is always a no win situation when you are yelling at the mirror.

[Wolfscout]

My home state of SC says such a conversion is not within their codes. ( not covered). It was made as a Cargo trailer and that is how they see it no matter how I use it.
as to insurance... Homeowner's covers the "guts" and I have road liablity for accidents. shrugs.... I can build another if it's that bad.
My wiring is probably safer and more overkill than most manufactured RVs. It may not "Look" like quality but I go for functionality.
If it works and I'm happy with it.. it's time to roll to the next campsite.

[8ball_99]

The few campgrounds we go its not an issue. I'm glad its not and really I don't suspect we will ever be at a place the requires its. Honestly though with some of the DIY wiring jobs and gas lines I've seen. I can kind of see why some camp grounds might be scared of home made or older trailers.

[k1hog]

I have been rving for many years, owned several RV s TT to MH, good and bad quality. From looking at all the posts , I would say the quality of conversions is better then factory. I know mine is.

Johnnie