Dustin Simpson With over 25 years in the RV Industry, Mr. Dustin Simpson has worn many hats. From an RV Technician (both in the shop and mobile), Warranty & Parts Administrator, Parts & Service Manager, Teacher/Trainer and Business Owner. Outside of these typical roles and responsibilities within the industry, Dustin enjoys being a Content Creator, Brand Ambassador, Author, and Expert Witness. He has served as an expert witness in multiple cases in California, Washington, Idaho, and Texas.
While Dustin currently juggles multiple roles and responsibilities, most of his time is spent operating his independent repair facility, California RV Specialists (CALRV). This highly rated RV repair facility has been operating at the same location since 2003, specializing in maintenance, repairs, and upgrades.
CALRV inspects, diagnoses, evaluates, and repairs RVs. CALRV is an independent shop and not affiliated with any manufacturer, allowing Dustin and his team to be completely honest with inspections, repairs, and recommendations – without stepping on a business partner’s toes.
Dustin has inspected thousands of RVs during his career, diagnosing various problems from stem to stern. He has performed repairs of all mechanical defects and other failures in RVs. Dustin has also assisted with design changes, recalls, engineering changes, working directly with RV manufacturers.
Dustin also manages several media platforms, including Facebook, Instagram, LinkedIn, Google Business, Yelp, and the CALRV business website. He enjoys sharing information on repairs and maintenance with RV consumers.
<em><strong>Dustin proudly operates the business alongside his wife Ashley but the true pair that run the show are their Boston Terriers Arvie and Hitch<strong><em>
CURRENT PROFESSIONAL EXPERIENCE
OWNER, CALIFORNIA RV SPECIALISTS – LODI, CA
With his current staff of 12 employees, Dustin oversees the entire operations of the business which includes service writers, parts department, technicians, and lot porters. With 3 – 5 units being brought in daily for repairs, Dustin ensures the team works efficiently to exceed the company’s financial goals while ensuring the customers receive excellent customer service and superior workmanship. While managing the business, Dustin finds a great benefit in routinely inspecting all units on the lot. He not only identifies opportunities for repairs and upgrades for consumers, but he often utilizes this content to continuously train his staff, and to share helpful information to RV consumers that follow his various social media platforms.
RVtravel.com is a successful online newsletter with an average of nearly 2.5M views per month. Dustin is featured 3 – 4 times per week where he shares products, repairs, and maintenance tips. Dustin has also contributed to numerous RVtravel.com livestreams entitled Talkin’ RV Tech. Dustin has over 200 published articles with RVTravel with numerous articles to be released weekly. Dustin has also contributed to both audio and video podcasts with fellow RVtravel.com contributing authors.
CONTENT CREATOR
With a passion for teaching others how to fix and maintain their RVs, Dustin has created an online presence on multiple social platforms. Most notably, Dustin manages multiple Facebook groups, where he interacts with nearly 100K group members, obtaining over 500,000 monthly views. With over 400 videos available on his YouTube channel (Your RV Specialists), Dustin has garnered over 2M views.
An RV screw cover is a flexible strip, typically made from durable plastic or rubber, used to cover…
Check and clean the furnace fan blades at least once a year, preferably before the heating season…
Your RV’s wheel bearings may be out of sight, but ignoring them could bring your adventure to a…
If your Dicor 501 Self-Leveling Lap Sealant is bubbling or rippling after application, several…
Join me in the video below as I explain how to use a slide out lock made by American Technology…
In the RV industry, TPO stands for Thermoplastic Polyolefin. It is a type of synthetic roofing…
Properly sealing your RV roof is essential to prevent leaks and extend the life of your rig. Dicor…
A well-maintained trailer connection is essential for safe and hassle-free towing. Keeping your…
Join me as I explain more about Lippert Components, often referred to as LCI, one of the leading…
Join me in the video below as I explain more about Thetford RV Toilet Seal Lubricant and…
I wanted to chat about a game-changing upgrade for your RV’s entry steps: Solid Stance RV Step…
Join Zach and me as we dive into RV frame crack repairs. These repairs ensure your RV’s frame…
In Part 2 of our RV back wall disaster series (read/watch Part 1 here), my wife, Ashley, and I dive…
Before you continue reading, make sure you read Part 1 and Part 2 of this series. Welcome to Part 3…
Discover why sealing your RV roof side seams is absolutely critical in this eye-opening video. Join…
Join me and Terry in our RV shop, as we explain why so many RV owners are having RV refrigerator…
Today, let’s dive into an important topic that can significantly impact your RV’s…
Join me in the video below as we say goodbye to stubborn tank deposits and hello to hassle-free…
Join Terry and me in our RV shop as we check out this small tear in a roof membrane. Even something…
Adding a front cap second roof molding to your RV is an excellent way to enhance the security and…
In this episode, join me and my crew as we uncover and repair I-beam cracks on a Forest River…
While moving units around the lot, one of our technicians noticed an unusual issue—the front cap of…
I’m raising this concern because we’ve been seeing a disturbing number of RVs coming…
Resealing your RV with silicone is an important maintenance task to prevent leaks and water damage…
When it comes to resealing your RV’s slide-outs, you’re on the right track. The good…
Chris from the YouTube channel “Why Wait” and Pete West from “Wests On The…
Is your RV broken and your RV warranty about to run out? Now what? Who will do your RV warranty work…
It’s always great to see so many RVers proudly displaying flags while out on the road or at…
Join me “In The RV Shop” as I reply to a question that was asked in our Grand Design RV…
Join me as I share what we like to call “cool RV products.” These are products and gadgets that we…
Join me in our RV shop, where I’ll explain why checking the thickness of your RV shackle link is so…
Join Terry and me in our RV shop and watch as we tackle a skylight replacement up on the roof. We’ll…
Join me in the video and article below as we dive into essential maintenance tips for keeping your…
Join me in our RV shop as we inspect the standard way that RV manufacturers install roof line…
Today we’re sharing the story of our recent project involving a third replacement of the shower pan…
Today I’m discussing a crucial topic for RV owners: finding and replacing the right leaf…
Welcome, fellow RV enthusiasts! Today, we’re diving into the nitty-gritty of RV roof membrane…
These “cool tools” are tools and gadgets that we actually use in the RV industry! We…
By Dustin SimpsonWhether you own a million-dollar unit or you have an entry-level RV, my message to…
Hello, fellow RV enthusiasts! Today, we’re addressing a crucial safety topic: the correct…
We all know that Amazon offers a diverse range of RV tools and gear, from essential items like…
Join us as we conduct a thorough inspection of the 2025 Winnebago View RV. This detailed report will…
Today, join me as I revisit a critical inspection from 2017 involving a new Forest River RV that…
Investing in a motorized or towable RV is a significant decision. Whether you’re purchasing…
If your RV is experiencing issues and your warranty is about to expire, it’s crucial to act quickly…
Performing regular exterior inspections and outdoor maintenance tasks of your RV is crucial to…
In this video, we take you inside our repair shop to inspect a FlexArmor roof. While we don’t…
If you’re thinking about selling your RV, a presale inspection can be a game-changer. This…
If you’re an RV owner, you know how crucial it is to keep your furnace in good working order…
In this video, we’re bringing you an in-depth comparison between two popular RV sealing products:…
In this video, we dive into the truth about RV roof repairs and explore why EternaBond tape or…
If you’re looking for a roof coating that offers long-lasting protection and enhanced…
Are you puzzled about what a roof reseal entails for your RV? Look no further! In this video, we…
Maintaining your RV water heater is crucial for its longevity and efficiency. In this simplified and…
Is your RV’s slide-out making strange noises or not operating as smoothly as it should? In this…
Proper maintenance of your RV vent lid seals is essential for maintaining the comfort and efficiency…
Struggling with inaccurate tank sensor readings in your RV? You’re not alone! Many RV owners…
Water damage can be a huge issue for RV owners, especially when it comes to slide-out roofs. In this…
Want to protect your RV from harsh elements and keep it looking new? In this article and video…
Did you know that proper slide-out maintenance can save you thousands of dollars in costly repairs?…
Applying sealant to your RV roof, especially a self-leveling silicone sealant, can significantly…
In this DIY RV repair video, we will guide you through identifying different types of vent hinges…
In this article and video, we’ll introduce you to the RV cheater vent, a clever and easy solution…
In this article and video, we’ll show you how upgrading your RV refrigerator with a cooling fan can…
Moldings are a critical part of your RV’s structure, not just for aesthetics, but for protecting…
Maintaining your RV’s dump valves is crucial for ensuring a hassle-free and sanitary waste…
Join me in the RV repair shop at California RV Specialists as I walk you through essential…
Join me in the RV repair shop at California RV Specialists as I walk you through essential…
Learn the secrets of exterior body resealing in this informative article and video. Discover why…
In this comprehensive guide, we’ll walk you through the essential RV water heater maintenance steps…
In this article and video, we’ll dive into the hidden benefits of RV roof vent covers and explain…
In this article and video, we’re diving into the importance of bug screens for your RV appliances…
Proper maintenance of your RV water heater valves is essential for ensuring safe and efficient…
Join Ashley in the RV shop as she highlights an essential upgrade for travel trailers and 5th wheels…
Join Ashley in the RV shop as she highlights a critical yet often overlooked maintenance task: wheel…
Join Ashley In The RV Shop as she explains why you should consider getting an RV roof coating, Your…
Join us on an exciting RV roof inspection adventure as we uncover unexpected tree damage on a 2021…
Learn all about mastering RV maintenance with the perfect caulking gun in this informative video…
Learn how to properly care for your RV roof with our essential tips! Discover the best products to…
In our latest video, join Dustin in the store as he explains the different types of sealants…
Introduction: Roof leaks in RVs may seem like a minor issue, but they can lead to serious…
RV refrigerators operate under different conditions compared to home refrigerators, facing unique…
Explore the significance of RV insert moldings in this video, uncovering how these essential…
In this video, we’ll discuss the critical importance of RV water heater maintenance. All RV…
Join Dustin at California RV Specialists as he conducts a thorough inspection of a Grand Design RV…
In the heart of an RV repair shop, where the hum of machinery and the clinking of tools create a…
Question to Dustin and others. We have a 2020 GD Solitude 380FL, with a water intrusion/leak in my…
⚠️ WARNING: Cracked I-Beams Affect RV Safety Significantly ⚠️ Join Dustin as he checks in on…
Resealing your RV with silicone is an important maintenance task to prevent leaks and water damage…
Let us help you take the risk out of buying an RV! We want you to be aware of any issues before you…
Today, let’s talk about a game-changing upgrade for your RV’s suspension system: MORryde Suspension…
Section 1: Uncovering the I-beam cracks Identifying the structural issue: During a routine…
While moving units around the lot, one of our technicians noticed an unusual issue—the front cap of…
I’m raising this concern because we’ve been seeing a disturbing number of RVs coming…
Join Dustin as he explains more about Lippert Components, often referred to as LCI, is a leading…
I wanted to chat about a game-changing upgrade for your RV’s entry step: Solid Step…
Today, I’m excited to talk about something that can make a big difference in your RV…
Amazon offers a diverse range of RV tools and gear, from essential items like nitrile gloves to…
While moving units around the lot, one of our technicians noticed an unusual issue—the front cap of…
Welcome to Part 3 of our RV Back Wall Disaster series on this Grand Design RV, where we take an…
In Part 2 of our RV Back Wall Disaster series, Dustin and Ashley dive deeper into the structural…
In this episode, we take you behind the scenes to explore a major issue with a 2022 Grand Design…
Join us In The RV Shop as the techs from California RV Specialists installed a Blue Ox RV Flat…
Join us In The RV Shop as the techs from California RV Specialists installed a Blue Ox RV Flat…
Hey Kayaker’s, Dustin always gets asked questions about transporting kayaks with an RV, this…
Join me as I share what we like to call “Cool RV Tools.” These are tools and gadgets that we…
RV electrical adapters are essential accessories that allow you to connect your RV to different…
RV scissor jacks attachments tools can make leveling and stabilizing your RV easier and more…
Replacing an RV roof plumbing vent involves a series of careful steps to ensure the job is done…
Join Dustin In The RV Shop as he explains a simple upgrade from a standard suspension kit to a heavy…
Owning an outdoors RV comes with the promise of endless adventures and the freedom to explore the…
Join Dustin In The RV Shop as he talks about water damage is one of the most insidious issues that…
Join Dustin In The RV Shop to talk about factors cause RV window seals to shrink and discolor. The…
Join Dustin In The RV Shop as he reminds you prior to embarking on an RV adventure involves more…
Join Dustin In The RV Shop as he explains how the entry door hold back on your RV plays a crucial…
Join Dustin In The RV Shop as he explains more about Water intrusion and why it is a common concern…
Join Dustin In The RV Shop as he explains how to apply Geocel RV sealant to the RV exterior body…
An RV’s roof is its first line of defense against the elements, shielding it from rain…
As the temperatures drop and RV enthusiasts embark on cold-weather adventures, a reliable and…
For RV owners, ensuring the cleanliness and functionality of the fresh water system is crucial for…
For RV owners, maintaining the cleanliness and functionality of the holding tanks is essential for a…
Slide-out rooms are a hallmark feature of modern RVs, offering additional space and comfort to…
The RV lifestyle is synonymous with freedom and adventure, and a crucial aspect of ensuring a safe…
The exterior aesthetics of an RV play a significant role in both its appeal and protection against…
For RV enthusiasts, a well-maintained weight distribution system is essential for safe and stable…
For RV enthusiasts who enjoy the freedom of towing a car behind their recreational vehicle, a…
For RV enthusiasts who prefer the convenience and stability of a fifth wheel trailer, the fifth…
The RV refrigerator is a cornerstone of comfort during travels, keeping food fresh and beverages…
An essential component of any RV journey is the comfort provided by a reliable RV water heater…
The heart of any travel trailer is its hitching system, and for A-frame travel trailers, the Lippert…
Ensuring the safety and performance of an RV involves more than just the mechanics of the vehicle…
As RV enthusiasts embark on journeys to explore the great outdoors, the joy of camping can sometimes…
For RV enthusiasts, stability during camping is a key consideration for a comfortable and enjoyable…
In the digital age, staying connected while on the road is a priority for many RV enthusiasts…
For RV enthusiasts traversing the diverse landscapes of California, the journey should be as…
California, with its picturesque landscapes and diverse terrains, beckons RV enthusiasts to embark…
Introduction: California, with its diverse landscapes and scenic routes, is a haven for RV…
Recreational vehicles (RVs) have become a popular choice for travel enthusiasts seeking adventure on…
Join Dustin and Zach as they explain why having a RV solar consultation is valuable for several…
Join Dustin and Zach in the RV shop, as they inform you more about being “solar…
Join Dustin in the RV shop to explain why an RV body reseal is crucial to prevent RV water damage!…
First, let’s look at the two different LP or propane “vessels” used in the RV industry. Types of…
I always refer to your RV’s fresh water tank as a dirty fish tank. Think of all the slime and…
This is a prime example of why keeping up on your RV slide-out maintenance is important! In this…
Let’s face it. Nobody wants their RV bathroom to be known as the source of mysterious RV odors…
Hey, everyone. We wanted to share a quick behind-the-scenes look with Ashley and the team from our…
I wanted to share a couple of pictures of this 2019 Grand Design Imagine 3170BH. On this unit, the…
There are so many questions about the black tank flush system, so here is a post to help out. You or…
I was recently asked by a customer about RV dump valve handles coming loose in travel. They wanted…
An RV owner in one of my Facebook groups asked, “Where is the water getting in on my slide out?” No…
Join Dustin In The RV Shop at California RV Specialists, where I noticed a refrigerator vent door…
Our RV repair shop received the below email from John W. regarding his RV’s dry-rotted floor:…
Have you ever wondered how your RV was constructed? In this video, I show you what is behind your…
One of the most frustrating things for an RVer is having to deal with a leak underneath the RV in…
Want to know the real reasons why roof sealants are failing and leaking? First, during production…
Completing RV repairs and maintenance is a whole lot easier when you have the right tools on hand…
I get questions all the time, and sometimes I’m surprised that RVers don’t know the answer. I just…
An RV owner in one of my Facebook groups posted the below photo and wrote, “This is the first time…
Inspecting the roof of your RV is crucial for maintenance and preventing potential issues. Here are…
Whether your RV floor has a leak or a stain, or you simply want to update the look of your unit…
In the video below see rear wall impact damage, we are looking at one of our customer’s RVs. They…
During our inspection process we have been seeing this more and more RV power awning rails that are…
This is a real unit, with a real problem, and it’s in our real shop. This series was created in…
Join Dave and me up on the roof of a 2019 Grand Design Reflection in the video below. I’ll explain…
Join me in the RV shop in this video as I inspect the fifth wheel pin box on this Alliance Fifth…
These “cool tools” are tools and gadgets that we actually use in the RV industry! We also believe…
If your RV has hydraulic leveling jacks or a hydraulic slideout system, you want to have RV…
Here I’ll explain the importance of a wheel bearing pack service and will show you what we found on…
Join me in the RV shop as I take a look at a cracked RV frame—yikes! After completing some other…
Welcome to In the RV Shop with Dustin. Today, I want to talk about what you don’t see on your RV…
You may have encountered some debris on the road that has caused impact damage underneath the RV. Or…
Join me in the video below as I discuss some concerns I have during this RV LP safety inspection. In…
Join me in the video below as I hop up on the roof of a 2021 Grand Design Reflection. During the…
Cleaning and lubricating your RV’s slide-outs is an important maintenance task that helps ensure…
An RV owner in one of my Facebook groups posted the below photo and wrote, “Can I get some info on…
Today I’m showing you a tool in every RV technician’s toolbox—a plastic scraper! It’s used for so…
Regularly checking and cleaning the appliances in your RV is essential for their proper functioning…
Join me in the video below as I show you how to use this battery filler for easy RV battery…
No matter what manufacturer, year, make, or model your RV is, your RV’s entry door is widely used in…
Today I’m going to talk about some summertime cleanup regarding clearance lights. Each year we see a…
At my shop, California RV Specialists, we are product distributors and carry a wide selection of…
Repairing water damage in an RV is essential to maintain its structural integrity and prevent…
You’ll often hear conflicting stories about RV Extended Warranty Plans. Some consumers hate them…
Join me in the video below as I explain how to use a slide out lock made by American Technology…
Cleaning your RV slide-out topper is an essential maintenance task that helps keep your RV in good…
This process describes the repair where, under certain temperature conditions, the slide cable…
Having an RV seller’s inspection before listing your RV for sale is a proactive and smart approach…
There could be several reasons why someone might shoot an RV with a bullet, though I must emphasize…
Maintaining the exterior body of your RV is essential to keep it looking good and protect it from…
Part 1: What RV mechanics really think about RV extended warranties You’ll often hear conflicting…
RV buyers conduct inspections for several important reasons: Identifying issues: Inspections allow…
For RV slide out service, a trick I like to do is take my 12-volt/18-volt air blower and a long…
While we don’t install FlexArmor on RVs at our repair shop, we do see them from time to time. Check…
Blue Ox is the tow bar of choice for RVers. They are made with the highest quality materials and…
An RV owner in one of my Facebook groups wrote, “I noticed this separating. Can this be repaired or…
Solar charge controllers (solar regulators) were once the only option for off-grid power systems and…
This is a prime example of why keeping up on your RV slide-out maintenance is important! In this…
Welcome to “In the RV Shop with Dustin”. We recently had a customer in the shop with a Dometic 310…
I always refer to your RV’s fresh water tank as a dirty fish tank. Think of all the slime and…
A question we get asked a lot is, “Can the EternaBond tape be removed?” Yes, RV roof patch tape can…
Make sure you check out our YouTube channel for more helpful information, and other social media pages.