Fuel Filling Dilemma
One thing we have noticed, with our RV, is that it is very difficult to fill the gas tank all the way. The first 25 - 30 gallons go in just fine, but the last 20 gallons go in very slowly - and 20 gallons of gas on the slowest pump setting can take a long time.
In hopes of solving this problem, I took a look at the gas tank vent, which runs along side the filler tube underneath the chassis. As you can see in the picture, the vent (small metal tube) runs along side the larger filler tube. It is metal, so my hopes of finding a pinched vent tube, which would be an easy fix, were dashed. My attention turned next to the filler tube itself. Coming in from the gas cap, the filler tube makes a 90-degree turn towards the front of the RV and runs for quite some distance forward, before making another 90-degree turn into the top of the gas tank. The long section, that runs forward towards the gas tank, appears to be almost level with the ground. This makes me wonder if, after pumping 200lbs of gas (about 30 gallons) into the tank, the suspension compresses enough that gasoline starts backing-up into the filler tube, making the pump shut off. We usually travel with 25 to 50 gallons of water, too, which is another 200lbs to 400lbs on the suspension.
In an attempt to alleviate this problem, I am considering adding air bags to the rear suspension. Air bags sit between the rear axle and the frame, and augment the leaf springs in supporting the chassis. Many RV manufacturers off air bags as standard, or optional, equipment and they are also a common aftermarket upgrade. There are two companies that make air bags for Ford E-450 based motorhomes; Firestone and Air Lift.
Both kits mount inboard of the leaf springs, and look to have similar mounting characteristics. The Air Lift bags appear to be larger diameter than the Ride-Rite's, as they include a heat shield to protect the passenger-side bag from the exhaust pipe. I have not made a decision, yet, on either kit, although the local Camping World carries the Air Lift's and I might not want to tackle this installation.
The kids certainly did not think it was cold, and they were ready for the beach every morning after breakfast. The morning is a great time to hit the beach, as it is very still and it is the best time of day for catching a glimpse of passing whales or dolphins. We did not see any on this trip, due to the fog. Note the large tradeshow tote-bag, those things make great beach bags! Thank you, CTIA Wireless. 