I don't know why I feel funny about it --- maybe just because I hate spam, and commercial stuff in forums and what not...I know most of my friends here and few non friends know I've started a mobile RV technician business. Fortunately, not many campinn customers will need my service...they're built too good. But, theoretically I suppose it is possible...
After fixing my own camper and helping others at the campsite, I thought I was ready for my first paid customer. But when the money changed hands, all my planning went out the window! It felt great to help a family stuck with a non-retracting camper due to a hydraulic leak. With some knowledge from an NRVTA class, I located the pump and fixed the issue. The owner picked up the necessary fluid while I prepared for the repair. Pressed the retract button... and it worked! The leak remained, and needs to be assessed --- but they were on their way home.
Then, I turned my attention to my first trip of the year- taking the business vehicle pulling Serenity. When I got to the camp site, I thought there might be some stress because I was badged as mobile repair. The gate attendant was confused, asking me what site number I needed. She thought i was here for a service call --- I had to explain I was here to play, not to work. Nice to know there will be no problems getting into state parks if needed!
Pulling the CI behind a Chevy Express Cargo Van was a great - The van has no windows in the box. Just side mirrors. And I can't see the camper. It literally disappears behind me. Talk about forgetting it was there. Backing was a lot harder -- I didn't have any visual points of reference...but still made it into the spot just fine. My MPG went from 20 to 17.
Little cold today, but not bad -- the sun is warm and I'm enjoying it.
Then, I hear my name ... I'm the only one here...and I look out my side door...here comes our very own
@Bake and Kroak - we visited for a bit...he was looking for a camp site for the Crossraods of America Gathering this autumn. Sadly, same weekend as CICO, so this will be the first crossroads I miss in a few years. I was asked if I'd do a demo on wheel bearings - looks like maybe I'll do that at the summer gathering.
Regarless....great weekend with a warm camp fire, hot sun, and cool air. Honestly, I do think this is my favorite time of year for camping...when it isn't raining.
Getting out in nature is very healing, as everyone here knows. You've been a caretaker for some time and taking care of yourself is key, to avoid burnout, Sweeney.
Many of us have been there done that or facing it soon, so your CampInn is both therapietic and essential.
Just shorten your trips until you get comfortable with all the logistics, is my advice.
You are already seeing the need for help everywhere, and if you can make some money along the way helping others, its another win.
I like your down to earth vibe and extra smart insight, and can see you growing your brand like Cosmo Weems, from similar humorous self deprecation and solid insight- in your case showing what one can DIY, and what you cant, depending on capability, tools etc.
Start with Teardrops and small towables as your niche, and charge the big bucks to the big rigs. They are screwed going to the CampingWorld like vultures and you can make money mobile to those willing to pay, or zoom/facetime to give advice, at a price point thats a win for both sides, at all sizes; imho.
A $30,000 or a million dollar rig gathering dust unused has to be frustrating and you are a good alternative for some for whom their time with family in nature is invaluable, so dont underprice yourself or let "perfection be the enemy of good". Just put it out there and go with the flow, as you are seeing works.
The first couple years in any small business is marketing so get yourself out there on youtube and let Googles SEO do all the work.
I assume you have or can build a simple wordpress landing page as your homepage?
Thats it, for any personal service provider or tradesman. Good work builds word of mouth referrals and going back in a couple years to happy customers to ask for more referrals will keep you too busy in 3-4 years so you'll be turning others away.
Think about the 80/20 rule then like dairy farmers culling the herd.
I'd advise you to screen out too many time-wasters by charging hourly fee for advice, even if nominally. You have a lot of value and should get paid back, starting Day1, unless the RV advice biz you are building is a charity effort.
I personally look forward to meeting you in person when you are out West. Got a wiring/diag job for ya, been saving it actually...handson or we may be able to do on FaceTime, if I am coachable (jury is out on that!)
So no rush but PM when ready.
Happy to sing your praise after!
Just pace yourself brother.
You are doing great!
PS: have fun!
-- Actually, I feel "alive" for the first time in a long time. I love helping people.
