Posted on 2/1/2025

There’s nothing quite like the freedom of the open road, and a cross-country adventure in your RV is the perfect way to explore it. But before you hit the highway, it’s important to ensure your RV is ready for the journey. Proper preparation not only makes the trip more enjoyable but also helps you avoid unexpected surprises. Here’s our ultimate guide to preparing your RV for a cross-country adventure. Start with a Thorough Inspection Before any big trip, a comprehensive RV inspection is essential. Look for issues that could interrupt your journey and address them in advance. Key areas to inspect include: Tires: Check tire pressure, tread depth, and overall condition. Don’t forget to inspect the spare tire, too! Fluids: Ensure oil, coolant, transmission fluid, and brake fluid are at the proper levels and consider topping off or replacing them as needed. Battery: Test your RV’s battery to ensure it holds a charge and is free from corrosion. Lights an ... read more
Posted on 7/15/2024
David H.: Roof & Siding Specialist David H., a key player at Ernie's Inc. in Olympia, WA, is not just an RV and trailer repair expert but a man of many passions and talents. When he's not meticulously fixing an RV or trailer, you can find him indulging in his love for the great outdoors. David is an avid hiker and outdoor enthusiast, often exploring the trails with his loyal black lab Dalmatian, Miso. They make a formidable pair, whether they're trekking through the lush landscapes of Washington or enjoying a serene camping trip near Mt. Rainier. David's adventurous spirit doesn't stop at hiking. He's also a climbing aficionado, currently gearing up for a climb on Mount St. Helens. His love for all things motorized is evident in his collection of old American cars, including a cherished '66 Dodge Dart. When he's not on the trails or under the hood of a classic car, you might find him on his motorcycle, feeling the wind rush by as he takes on new ad ... read more
Posted on 6/1/2024

First off, congratulations on your new RV purchase! Here at Ernie’s Inc., we’ve been a part of the RV lifestyle for nearly ten years, and we’ve worked with RV-ers who have been driving around for much more than that. Embarking on adventures with your mobile home. It is an exciting journey with limitless possibilities. As you prepare for your first camping trips this summer, here are the top five things every new RV owner should know. 1. Practice Driving and Maneuvering Before hitting the open road, take the time to familiarize yourself with driving and maneuvering your RV. Unlike driving a regular vehicle, RVs require a different approach, especially when turning, parking, and navigating tight spaces. Consider practicing in an empty parking lot or taking a short driving course to boost your confidence. 2. Master RV Setup and Maintenance. As a new RV owner, learning how to set up camp and maintain your RV is not just a necessity, but also a source of pr ... read more
Posted on 4/1/2024

Photo by RoadPass On Unsplash RV Safety Awareness Month: Essential Tips for a Secure Journey from Ernie's Inc. RV Repair in Olympia, WA When it comes to hitting the road in your RV, safety should always be a top priority. Whether you're a seasoned traveler or a newbie to the RV lifestyle, being prepared and aware of potential risks can make all the difference in ensuring a smooth and secure journey. That's why RV Safety Awareness Month is the perfect time to brush up on essential tips to keep you and your loved ones safe on the road. 1. Regular Maintenance Checks Before embarking on any journey, ensuring that your RV is in top condition is crucial. Regular maintenance checks, including inspecting tires, brakes, lights, and fluid levels, can help prevent breakdowns and accidents on the road. At Ernie's Inc. RV Repa ... read more
Posted on 3/1/2024

Photo by Chris Holder on Unsplash Spring into Action: Preparing Your RV for the Travel Season As the chill of winter begins to fade and the warmth of spring beckons, it's time to dust off your RV and get ready for another season of adventure on the open road. Whether you're a seasoned traveler or new to the RV lifestyle, proper preparation is critical to ensuring a smooth and enjoyable journey. At Ernie's Inc. in Olympia, WA, we understand the importance of getting your RV in top shape for the travel season. We've compiled a comprehensive guide to help you spring into action and prepare your RV for the road ahead. Inspect Your RV Inside and Out Before hitting the road, it's crucial to thoroughly inspect your RV for any signs of wear and tear. Start by checking the exterior for cracks, leaks, or damage to the roof, windows ... read more
Posted on 10/13/2023

Get Ready to Embrace the Magic of RVing this Fall and Winter! Unsplash+ In collaboration with Daiga Ellaby To our Valued Customers, As the leaves start to change and a crispness fills the air, there's something undeniably magical about Fall in the Pacific Northwest. At Ernie's Inc., we believe this season is the perfect time to keep the adventure alive and make unforgettable memories in your RV. The open road beckons, and we're here to help you make the most of it! You don't have to say goodbye to RVing this season. We know that many RV enthusiasts tend to stow away their vehicles as the temperature drops, but we're here to tell you that Fall and Winter RVing can be an extraordinary experience. Whether you're seeking serene solitude or cozy campfires with loved ones, there's something truly special about the great outdo ... read more
Posted on 10/30/2020

Contact Information: Ernie’s, Inc. Ernie Skillingstad Office: 360-456-6100 Email: [email protected] Monday, October 26, 2020 ERNIE'S INC. OFFICIALLY OPENS NEW RV REPAIR FACILITY IN OLYMPIA Completing the final touches during COVID, we have finally moved to our new location. Olympia, Washington -- Since 2013, Ernie Skillingstad and his family-owned business have provided high-quality recreational vehicle repair for motor homes and trailers that come from all over the West. Our company has grown in seven short years, and we started constructing our new building 2.5 years ago. As of today, we have officially moved into our new facility at 2600 21st Avenue SW in Olympia, and we cannot wait to share it with you! The entire team here at Ernie's Inc. is excited for what's to come. Even our work family is everything to us, and we can't wait to share what we have worked so hard for with ... read more
Posted on 10/21/2020

Fall. It’s the beginning; or end of the changing of the seasons. For us, Fall is just the beginning of the season's changes. Leaves begin to change to vibrant color and fall, the weather goes from warm nights to cold brisk mornings, and the holiday season starts. This Fall we are so blessed and thankful for all of the changes that are happening at Ernie’s, and we can't wait to share and take the journey with you. This Fall as the seasons change and the holiday’s begin, here are some ways to embrace, celebrate, and enjoy them. Halloween: October 31st This Halloween try trunk or treat… RV style. Dress up your RV, use props and transform your Motorhome or Trailer into Freinkenstien, a giant bat, or even a spaceship. You can get items to help you transform your RV like sheets, loose fabric, paper streamers, strobe lights, and fall items like straw, cornstalks, skeletons and so much more. What a way to make this year fun while staying safe. ThanksGiving: No ... read more
Posted on 3/1/2020

Spring is a time we all look forward to fun and adventure. A road trip in your RV is just what the family needs! Here is a list of amazing experiences awaiting you on your spring break journey: Olympic National Park As one of the most popular national parks in the USA, Olympic National Park is a hot spot for outdoor lovers, and for a good reason. There are glaciers in the mountains, a coastline that is lush and rugged with a temperate rainforest. The sights are incredible. Whale Watching on the Oregon Coast Just a little south of us is a fantastic sight in spring. Pods of grey whales are on their migration trek north up to Alaska. Plan your late March trip to the Oregon coast and be prepared to hang onto your bootstraps, because the sights of these majestic creatures are sure to blow you away! Washington State Parks for free in March? Yes! Washington State Parks offers two free days in their parks between Ma ... read more
Posted on 2/1/2020

One of the best aspects of owning an RV is that you can create romance on the fly and what is more romantic than looking up into a star-filled sky? Pull up to almost any beach location at sunset, add a favorite beverage, and you have the perfect recipe for an evening full of romance. As we head into the romance month, we’d love to share with you some great RV spots not too far from home. Ernie’s Inc. in Olympia is here to take care of the details of your RV so you can focus on getting to a place that lights up your romance factor by ten! Fort Stevens State Park: Make sure to check out Peter Iredale Shipwreck, the Columbia River Maritime Museum, and the Astoria Column (for the best romantic views of the coastline!) The Waterfront at Potlatch: Great scene ... read more