All posts by My RV Guy

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About My RV Guy

My RV Guy specializes in recreational vehicle parts and services. Browse RV parts and accessories online or shop in store and take advantage of a variety of RV related services. With over thirty years in the parts and accessories industry you can be confident that you will be purchasing great products and services for your car, truck, boat, or RV at fair prices from someone who knows you matter. We look forward to serving you. Ron Ash aka My RV Guy™ a division of RMA Associates

Equine Experiences

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Shenandoah and Cinnamon were the first and only horses I had met and grown to know personally. The corral fence that bordered my neighbor Suzy’s campsite was a regular visit in the course of my warm summer days on the pond. Her family rented their vacation cottage and lived in a travel trailer several feet away from the horse corral which housed this pair of gorgeous show horses. Not a bad way to help pay for a small summer home while enjoying the shade of the tall pines and warm breezes of Shady Valley.

As I recall, we’d stroke their shiny coats and on occasion feed them carrots or apples. Shenandoah was a prize-winning Appaloosa who was the pride of the valley. I don’t think we missed a single showing. Mary-Ann would train throughout the week to get her ready for the fair, the Rocky Hill State Fair in East Greenwich being my favorite. She and her sister Nancy would give us the run of the barn. We’d help stack the hay and after would each find a comfortable spot on the neatly stacked bales and socialize, laugh and share stories of what we hoped our futures would bring.

Life was simple back then. We all had the run of the valley, no scheduled play dates back then. As long as we came home when my mom rang her cowbell, we were fine. Sometimes we’d be gone all day getting by on whatever we could find to stave off our hunger. We may help ourselves to an ear of cattle corn from a nearby farm, pick some blueberries across the way, or help ourselves to a stalk of Rhubarb from Dell St. Jean’s Garden. Every so often I’d pay Dell back with a five-gallon bucket of bullhead I’d catch in the channel across the pond. He’d say, “good eating” as he grabbed hold of the wildly fresh overly excited catfish splashing around in the pail.

The small red barn and white corral fence nearby our camp were something I wouldn’t had experienced back home on the blocks of our scorching hot suburban neighborhood. My neighbor Vinny once told me “It was coffee money back then” when reflecting on how he and my parents found our little piece of Heaven on Johnson’s Pond. I don’t think we watched television all summer. With the exception of the occasional trip to the Drive-In movies, I don’t remember any screen time. Summers on the pond were all about interacting with our summertime family of friends in the great outdoors.

Happy camping!

Ron Ash (CEO & Founder at My RV Guy Franchising LLC)

Coming-of-Age

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Recently I’ve been reflecting on a few things which have not come to mind in some time. I think it has something to do with the relationships we had with the kids we spent so much time with on the pond. There was something special about those times alone with our summertime family of friends. Absent of supervision we learned how to live, work and play together. We developed social skills and learned how to cope with adversity, enjoy comradery and solve problems amongst ourselves.

I remember taking off early in the morning and exploring our surroundings, there were small hidden ponds, large cornfields, and trails which seemed to go on forever. We bicycled to St. Germain’s to buy snacks, drinks or a slice of pizza. We let our parents know we were going, but they didn’t do anything to hold us back. I guess it was similar to the film “Stand by Me”. Our friends were our coming-of-age group. Laughing, learning and supporting one another through the unplanned course of our days. The occasional squabble would ensue, but when it did, we worked through it, and within minutes or by the next day it was forgotten.

Summertime crushes as we hung out together in tree forts, at the main lake beach or gathered around a hammock by the waters edge watching the darkest sky filled with the brightest display of shooting stars are all wonderful memories. Although nothing that vagally resembled a relationship developed, there was something gained through acceptance or rejection even in the most childish way. In the end we learned to brush off dismissal or appreciate adoration.

Today’s modern-day electronics, fear mongering opinion news channels and addictive smart phones have robbed today’s children of these experiences and has left them lacking in the confidence that comes from the natural development of social skills. It was not always easy, sometimes feelings got hurt, but it was real and valuable.

This is why camping in its purest form is so important. It’s not about what you are traveling in, it’s really about how you travel and how you and your children spend the time when you are there. Get their focus back on nature, show them how to gather kindling for the campfire and allow them to spend time with their peers in a less restrictive way. Most of all, get them out of their screens and into interacting with their peers in a fun and productive way. The lessons they learn today will help them to achieve greater things tomorrow.

Happy camping,

Ron Ash (CEO & Founder at My RV Guy Franchising LLC)

My RV Guy Blog

SPRING IS IN THE AIR

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SPRING IS A TIME FOR NEW BEGINNINGS

Hello Campers,

Life is a series of constant changes which work together to move us forward in every area of our lives. Good and bad experiences give us the tools we’ll need to conquer the next level in what some refer to as the game of life.

Millennials get a bad rap in regards to their approach to life, especially from Boomers and the Gen-Xers, but in many ways, they have the right idea. Life is all about living! What we experience today will bring us to where we need to be tomorrow. It may have just taken us a little longer to figure out what they already understand. Time is our most precious commodity, so spend it wisely.

I learned this decades ago through my mom’s unexpected illness. It doesn’t really matter what you die with. It’s who you live with. Sure, there is a certain amount of planning involved, but all plans are tentative and any illusion of control is exactly that; illusion. The memories we make are all we’ll really keep. It’s what we remember about special times together and what those special people in our lives will remember about us when we are gone.

This is what I want to share with you all today. Don’t get caught up in worrying about what may or may not be tomorrow. The past is gone, the future is not here yet, all we really have is right now. That’s where God lives. So, my wish for you all is to take time with your family and friends, and experience the joy of each day as you relish in every moment right now. Get intentional about creating more memorable memories. In the end, that’s all that counts. Everything else shall pass, but what we instill in the hearts and minds of those we care about will live on forever.

Happy camping,

Ron Ash (CEO & Founder at My RV Guy Franchising LLC)

TECH TALK

Failure to winterize your RV could cause the water in the lines and the pipes to freeze. Once the water freezes, it will expand and crack your pipes, which can be costly and time-consuming to repair. Most RV enthusiasts know how important it is to properly winterize, but few place a value on proper de-winterization procedures. Decontaminating your water system is one of the most crucial steps of RV spring preparation. When you are on the road, you rely on a clean source of water for cooking, drinking, washing dishes and showering.

Standing drinking water has serious health implications. Bacteria growth is ongoing in stagnant water, with possible serious consequences such as Legionnaires’ disease. We add antifreeze to our water systems to treat water that did not drain. This does not stop the bacteria from contaminating your water system. Bacteria thrives in untreated water. So, RVers are at a higher risk than the rest of the population when it comes to Legionella infections.

De-winterizing involves much more than flushing out the old antifreeze. It is a process of sanitizing the system and protecting your investment, and making sure your water-heater, HVAC, appliances and propane system are in working order. It’s also an opportunity to have your seals checked. Most RVers don’t realize that manufactures recommend inspecting seals every ninety days and making repairs when necessary. Your RV service technician will usually conduct this system check as part of your De-winterization aka Spring Opening to make sure you and your family are ready to Go RVing.

MY RV GUY FRANCHISE PARTNERS

My RV Guy is an owner-operated business that takes pride in being able to provide its customers with a high-quality, honest, and valuable service at competitive prices. Our success is based on a customer-first approach, which will carry forward in our franchise program. Our ideal candidate will also be professional, outgoing, and mechanically inclined.

TRAINING AND SUPPORT

We’ll Help You Take The Road Less Traveled.

The owner/operator franchise model involves significant investment of time and lifestyle, which is why we aim to empower motivated franchisees to become profitable entrepreneurs. As a My RV Guy franchisee, we’ll provide every possible tool to help you achieve your business goals.

Comprehensive Training

We designed our dual-phase initial training program to answer all your questions. Our goal is to give our franchise partners a strong foundation for operational success.

Support

  • Operational – My RV Guy will provide ongoing training and support in many areas, including technology and software training, product ordering, customer-service techniques, accounting and administration.
  • Marketing– We’ll utilize our extensive marketing expertise to coordinate the development of advertising materials and SEO/SEM strategies to help franchisees leverage our established brand.
  • Ongoing Research & Development – My RV Guy leadership will continue to research methods and techniques for franchise operations that enhance unit-level profitability.

Day Trippers

Camping, Fishing, Nature, outdoors, Rhode Island, Rv, Uncategorized

Hello Campers,

Today I was thinking of the day trips we’d take with our fellow campers. Those special journeys to area shorelines like Point Judith, Charlestown and Galilee. We’d pack up some gear, fill our coolers, strap the canoes to the station wagons and head out to explore. I guess this stroll down memory lane came about when I remembered an old cassette tape one of my summertime neighbors gave me decades ago. I may put together a little slideshow with those campfire songs playing in the background. With that thought, so many wonderful memories came to mind. Sunny days at Point Judith snorkeling with friends, fishing off the rocks for Flounder or building sandcastles on the beach. I even recalled the day I found my first Pole Spear in a couple feet of water just off the sandy shore. Quahogging in the shallow waters of Bluff Hill Cove in Galilee without a clam rake came to mind. We used our feet back then and had the cuts to prove it. We’d do the same at the Charlstown Breachway with canoes by our side. I still remember the day I saw my first Horseshoe crab. Mom let me know to always keep a safe distance of course. Most of us would fall asleep during the ride home, but once we got back we’d all run off the dock and jump right into Johnson’s Pond. Our folks would prepare the catches of the day while we enjoyed ourselves in the water. When the cowbell rang we knew it was time for a smorgasbord of seafood to be enjoyed with our campground family of friends. Someday I’ll put that slideshow together, but for now, I’ll just relish in my reflections of yesterday.

The memories we make today are the treasures we’ll hold dear tomorrow.

Happy camping!

Ron Ash aka MY RV GUY

www.myrvguyfranchise.com

Franchise Interview – Mr. Ron Ash, CEO and Founder, My RV Guy Franchise


How did you get into the RV Services industry?

My first experience in the RV industry began in 2014 while acting as the interim business manager for a Providence area dealership which sold and serviced automobiles, boats and RVs. Several years later, I took on a sales and business development role at a large dual location Massachusetts RV dealership. Immediately I put my decades of marketing experience together and created the My RV Guy brand as a way to increase leads, web traffic and foot traffic. Through social media video presentations, blog writings and email campaigns My RV Guy fostered trust and built solid relationships with our sales, parts and service customers. In 2021 a national chain purchased the dealership. I realized I’d no longer be able to offer my customers the service they were accustomed to, so I decided to part ways. I recognized a high demand for RV services and decided to fill that niche. The My RV Guy brand had a strong platform, so I recruited a few seasoned RV technicians who reflected my core values and could listen, evaluate needs and present what would work best for our clients.

What’s New in the My RV Guy Business or in the My RV Guy Franchise Model?

The My RV Guy brand has been able to incorporate the newest technologies, parts resources and support into an industry lacking in acceptable customer service practices. Our customer first approach has allowed us to win jobs and create lasting relationships. “Finally, a friendly voice on the line!” Answering calls, prioritizing customers needs combined with our unique offerings has catapulted My RV Guy forward in the RV services industry. Parts, Services, Solutions! Everything you need for your RV.

Where do you See Opportunities or Challenges for the Franchise/Business Moving Forward?

Finding seasoned RV technicians who reflect My RV Guy core values and can listen, evaluate needs and present what would work best for our clients can be challenging. Through franchising we hope to partner with franchisees that take pride in being able to provide My RV Guy customers with a high-quality, honest, and valuable service at competitive prices. Our ideal candidates will also be professional, outgoing, and mechanically inclined.

What is your Goal for the Business Moving Forward?

With a network of My RV Guy franchises nationwide, we will experience exponential growth via ever strengthening brand recognition, parts margins and evolving technologies. I’d like to interact with our franchisees on a regular basis, consider new ideas, and create an environment that make our franchisees excited to start their workday every day! In 1992 I began a chain of automotive accessories stores in Rhode Island. One of our largest suppliers offered impeccable customer service in every area of the company. I honestly felt like I wanted to sell more for them. This is the feeling I’d like to establish in My RV Guy franchisees.

Talk to us About Training and Support, How Do You Deliver?

With over three decades in the parts and services industry I have learned a lot, and I look forward to putting that knowledge to work for my franchisees. Through every experience good and bad lessons are learned that can either hold us back or move us forward in the direction of our dreams. This is how we add tools to our toolbox. Through My RV Guy Franchising LLC, I offer franchisees access to a vast array of business management and marketing tools that would otherwise take years to acquire.

Franchisee support embellishes upon typical customer support models to develop franchisee skills in customer service by empathizing with our clients’ feelings as well as their service needs. It’s easy to get caught up in the emotions of a less than perfect situation. The right response can make the difference between a profitable experience and a bad business review. My RV Guy will be available to help franchisees through these types of situations, turning a volatile situation into a valuable one.

Access to parts and supplies is critical in any parts and services business. Acquiring the right parts in perfect timing is critical to the success of the My RV Guy business model. In most cases, when it comes to ordering parts, we can only be as good as our suppliers. Thirty years of purchasing parts and accessories has developed best in the business access to the parts and supplies our customers need. My RV Guy also has the ability to use data to suggest the RV parts and supplies our technicians should have on hand. My RV Guy franchisees will be able to say, “We’ve got that!” as well as “We do that!”

Efficiency is key in every business. When we save time, we make more money. Through our CRM tools franchisees will enjoy the ability to track technicians and have them book more jobs on route. My RV Guy customers know what to expect and when to expect it. “My RV Guy is on the way!” A polished, evolving and profitable business model allows technicians to do more jobs in less time while making more money. Multiple “at your fingertips” payment platforms including integrated credit card and installment terms separate My RV Guy from typical independent cash only RV mobile repair businesses.

Ongoing education is always available via the My RV Guy skills center online, CRM support agents, outside RV training facilities and by RV manufacturers and suppliers. We encourage our franchisees to seek training in areas they may be lacking. The more we learn the more we earn!

Your most difficult moment at the Franchise Business?

My RV Guy is a highly expandable business model. There is the potential to add multiple trucks to the franchise to keep up with demand for services. Having the right trainee on deck to do this can be a challenge. When your franchise begins to schedule customers several weeks out, it’s time to hire a helper. Working daily with you will develop their core values while readying a qualified technician for your franchise.

Define your Franchise Model:

A. Training and Support Model?

Initial and ongoing training.

B. What is the Fee Structure?

8% royalty/ 6% local advertising

C. Territory Definition?

15-30 miles ideally, 40 miles plus allowed outside assigned My RV Guy territories, RV campground locations can determine territories and locations, travel time should generally not exceed a one-hour drive.

D. Day in the life of a Franchisee?

My RV Guys will turn on their smartphones, tablets or computers at the beginning of each business day, check messages, return calls and texts, and begin sending out estimates and scheduling jobs. They will check to verify they have the parts and supplies they need to complete their repairs for the day and be sure they have the parts necessary for every day. Technicians can clock in and drive to their first job after letting their customer know they are ‘on the way’ via our CRM. Upon arrival technicians will start the clock for that job and begin the diagnostic or repair. The CRM will bring the technicians from there to billing. Once the technician has received payment it is on to the next job. Offer payment options and schedule routine maintenance before you go. Remember, every visit is an opportunity to foster a lasting relationship with your My RV Guy client. Find common ground! All things being equal, customers will always do business with those they like.

What does Your Franchisee Do in the My RV Guy Business Every Day?

This will depend on the franchise model they choose. Typically, the owner operator will take care of the day-to-day operations of their business. They will be the business manager, service advisor, parts manager and RV technician. In the owner operated service advisor model, the franchisee will take requests and dispatch their service technicians to various jobs. Both roles will be responsible to guide the day-to-day operations of the business included but not limited to customer service, ordering parts, tracking returns and scheduling jobs.

Who is the Ideal Franchise Candidate?

Our ideal candidate will also be professional, outgoing, and mechanically inclined.  Honestly though, we need people who are ready to work and bring intensity and passion to the business, we can teach them the rest!

What Goals Do You Have for the My RV Guy Franchise Model in the Future?

Regional to national expansion is my main goal. Keeping up with technology and maintaining My RV Guy core beliefs is key. Having everyone on the same page while being open to new ideas to bring My RV Guy forward, and considering all opportunities as they are presented will contribute greatly to our enduring brand.

The greatest journeys begin with a single step. Taking that step and understanding everything you need to achieve your goals will materialize in perfect timing is at the heart of every great entrepreneur. Asking yourself, “What can I do today with what I have right now?” is the best way to ensure an expansive future.

For more information on the My RV Guy Service Model, Brand and Franchise System, visit the corporate site: www.myrvguyfranchise.com

Off Season On The Pond

Boating, Camping, Coventry, Nature, outdoors, Rhode Island, Rv, , , , , , , , ,

Hello Campers,

Fall weekends on the pond came to mind this morning. As children we stayed outside most of the day. The temperature dropping a few degrees didn’t change that. We’d throw on progressively heavier clothing and enjoy the subtle changes of the off season on Johnson’s Pond.

Most packed up and headed back to the city before this magical time of year began and wouldn’t return until Memorial Day weekend. We were lucky to have our primary residence less than an hour away, so for us that was not the case. Our Camp Ash didn’t suffer from a lack of use.

The air was cool and fresh, and there was a quiet that didn’t exist on a hot summer’s weekend by the water. This was the perfect recipe for expanding a child’s imagination. In those early years I’d build entire ranches with twigs and pine needles. I’d break up tiny branches, stick the twigs in the ground and create corral fences, barns and log cabins. Nature’s toys!

Eventually we’d take in our floating docks by laying them on rollers. That’s about the time I learned about leverage. The boats would get winterized, but we’d still take out the canoe or jon boat until the pond froze over. Once that happened it would be time to skate the pond. That experience went beyond peaceful. When the ice was safe enough, we’d skate the entire cove. I still have vivid memories of my neighbor Vinny losing himself in the present as he made the most of the experience.

Although the days ended sooner and cooler, a roaring fire accompanied by an old song or scary story, and our combined laughter made every hour a bit more valuable. The stars above seemed a lot more abundant too. Maybe it was because our senses became more aware as we were absent of distractions. Whatever the case, I’ll always cherish those special moments together off season on the pond.

Happy camping!

Ron Ash aka My RV Guy

IT’S TIME TO SCHEDULE YOUR RV WINTERIZATION

My RV Guy offers an RV winterization service to protect your RV from cold weather damage by draining the water system, blowing out lines, adding RV antifreeze, and preparing vulnerable components for storage. This process prevents pipes from freezing and cracking, ensuring your RV is ready for use in the spring. You can schedule this service through My RV Guy to have their technicians prepare your vehicle for the winter. 

How My RV Guy’s Winterization Service Works

  • Draining the water system:Water is removed from the fresh water tank and hot water heater. 
  • Bypassing the water heater:The water heater is bypassed to prevent antifreeze from filling it, which saves antifreeze and makes the process more effective for the plumbing. 
  • Blowing out lines:Compressed air is used to remove any remaining water from the water lines and pipes. 
  • Adding RV antifreeze:Non-toxic RV antifreeze is pumped through the plumbing system to protect it from freezing. 
  • Protecting vulnerable components:This step helps protect components from the elements, though the exact details can vary by RV and service level. 

Why Winterize Your RV? 

  • Prevent freezing damage:The primary goal is to prevent water from freezing in your RV’s plumbing, which can cause pipes, tanks, and other components to crack and burst.
  • Ensure readiness for spring:A properly winterized RV will be ready to use when warmer weather returns without needing extensive repairs.

How to Schedule Service

You can schedule your RV winterization service directly through My RV Guy. Their website myrvguy.shop provides information on services and how to contact them. 

Where The Magic Happens

Boating, Camping, Fishing, Nature, Rv

Hello Campers,

I’m a bit of a workaholic, especially when I’m doing what I love. It isn’t always easy for me to put work aside and dedicate myself to vacationing. Today’s electronics combined with the internet make staying off the grid challenging. However, this year during my annual “Ash Family Vacation” alongside Narragansett Bay I realized doing anything that required an internet connection would be futile. I quickly decided to put my laptop away and concentrated on a fantastic week with family, friends and some of the most beautiful scenery Aquidneck Island had to offer. Whether I was relaxing at the beach, exploring the coast or enjoying what I affectionately refer to as the “poor man’s surf and turf” (lobster & burgers) at the family reunion cookout, I continually remained present. It was wonderful! Lesson learned. The past is gone and the future isn’t here yet. All we really have is right now. That’s where the magic happens.

Remember, time is our most precious commodity. Spend it wisely.

Happy camping!

Ron Ash aka My RV Guy

The Purple Cat

Chepachet, Glocester, Historic, Rhode Island

by Ron Ash

Some say we are all interconnected and what happens to one can touch everyone. I learned early on that this happens in our local business environment as well. The Rhode Island racetrack first opened in 1941 as a result of a Buick salesman known as Lucky. B A Dario had a passion for breeding thoroughbred horses so he decided to buy a small racetrack in town. This would eventually give birth to what is now Twin River Casino which was formerly “Lucky’s” Lincoln Downs.

Just over a decade earlier the Lavoie family of Glocester began making plans for a restaurant in Chepachet. They would use retired trolley cars from what was the Woonsocket Fairmont Line to create the diner. When the Pascoag Race Track officially opened The Purple Cat Diner expanded and flourished serving horse owners, jockeys and trainers. Until recently the shabby remains of the restaurant’s former glory still stood over our beloved village. Today an old family friend (Al Constantino) and his partner are recreating the property from scratch. Another idea in its infancy which will maintain Chepachet’s unique flavor while building fantastic memories for all. Hopefully they will be able to reintroduce the trolley cars in some way.

Feel free to share your memories related to this story. I’d love to hear from you. (photos by Frank Foster)

Happy camping.

Ron Ash aka My RV Guy

Extended Season Camping

Boating, Camping, Fishing, Nature, outdoors, Rv, Uncategorized

Hello Campers,

Fall and Winter camping isn’t for everyone, but if you’re a camping enthusiast with the proper equipment you may want to give it a try.  My first winter camping experience was just over thirty years ago.  The ground was hard, and the trails were icy, but my friends and I still managed to have an amazing time.  We didn’t have access to the state-of-the-art equipment available today.  In fact, we camped in tents without floors and our beds consisted of fallen leaves and a heavy tarp for ground cover.  A good sleeping bag, wool socks and layers of insulated clothing were necessities of survival.  Most importantly, we all made sure we kept the campfire burning.

I still have vivid memories of one of the new guys as he carried two cast iron Dutch ovens up the icy trails behind us.  The occasional bang and rolling clatter were enough to assure us he was still there.  Our backpacks were filled with all we would need to enjoy a cold winter weekend away with friends.  We’d clear our site, set the tents and hunker down for the weekend to enjoy the peacefulness of nature and the comradery of our camping family of friends.

Today modern recreational vehicles have expanded our camping seasons and allowed for a comfortable retreat from cold winter winds.  Polar packages with ducted heated underbellies, heavy insulation and even fireplaces have become common place.  If you love camping and have the equipment it’s time to find a few year-round campgrounds to enjoy.  Some members of my Camp New England Facebook group have recommended Aces High RV Park (CT), Peppermint Park Camping Resort (MA), Green Mountain Family Campground (VT) and Ammonoosuc Campground (NH).  Let me know about your favorite year-round spots as well as your own camping experiences.  I’d love to hear from you.

Remember, we are only limited by what we think is impossible.

Happy Camping!

Ron Ash aka MY RV GUY