Alpha Wolf Upgrades

Planning the next of many Wheel Epic Adventures led us to do upgrades to our 2022 Cherokee Alpha Wolf 26DBH-L that would hopefully make the adventure even better. After the first, small but eye opening adventure, we started a list of things we needed to do to be better prepared.

We had already ordered the very important mattress topper. So, next on the list was additional leveling options. We underestimated the quantity of leveling blocks buying only a few the first time out. We went with what is often referred to as the "lego levels", the yellow interlocking squares that snap together. Which we found cheaper at Wal-Mart. We also needed an addition to the 'stinky slinky', opting for 10' more, also cheaper at Wal-Mart. We were stretched to the max the first trip and needed to be prepared.

Having camped in the cold with a pretty bare bones right off the lot camper, we knew little things would be required to make it our own. Right out of the gate, we knew we needed the "thin shades" for the doors. We priced them at the "big box" store, but knew we could get them cheaper elsewhere and a simple search yielded two shipped to us in a matter of days. They were installed in less than 5 minutes. Fun fact, we found out that installing them 'upside down' was actually easier to deal with when time to adjust them. The only downfall is having to open the screen and separate the doors to access them.

Since we didn't get to really use our outdoor kitchen on the first trip, we did an experiment in our driveway. We cooked out using the outdoor kitchen and attempted to use the ice maker/water dispenser. We learned quickly that while the 2 burner stove is nice, it isn't a replacement for a real grill. For now, we will do our best to adapt while assessing ways to upgrade it. The ice maker impossible to get to being as it was screwed in and to access the lid to fill it up was virtually impossible without unscrewing it. We didn't get the nozzle/hose that has a connector right above the ice maker, which might make it easier so we had to think of another way. Of course, we removed it to learn about it because that was the ONE thing that we did not have a manual for inside the camper. When doing so we discovered that is was actually very fast in producing ice. We knew this could potentially save us money buying bags of ice, so we began brainstorming ways to make it more accessible. Finally, we came up with a sliding tray that brought the machine out far enough to fill up and slid back into place. It took about a day to adapt materials we found around the garage after we obtained the correct sliders. There's a short video of it on our InstaCheck BBeBeBeBegram.

Next, we wanted to change out the stock generic locks. After much research, we settled on the Compact keyless entry locks by RV Lock.

They were ordered on a Saturday and arrived the following Wednesday. Installation was quick and easy, taking about 5 minutes each, 6 screws total on each lock. If measured correctly they are a direct fit. A wonderful upgrade, money well spent.

Additional research led us to the more seasoned RVers and YouTubers, Jimmy & Lisa Cox, aka Find Us Camping. They recently did an easy upgrade, that we didn't even know we needed: the Lippert Screen Shot and Screen Defender.

Traveling with 3 adult huskies, we found this to be essential on our upgrade list. They arrived within a few days of ordering and were installed in a matter of minutes. The Screen Shot was a bit more troublesome for us to get to work. The small screw that came with the kit to hold the elastic cord wasn't long enough and popped out of the door frame after 4 closures of the screen. It took longer to dislodge the screw from the grommet than it did to install it. We opted to use the rivet verses the screw that was supplied with the Screen Shot. The Screen Defender required no tools and installed much like a storm window on a 'sticks and bricks'. Adding the spacer BEFORE installing the Screen Defender itself is the secret.

Next, as with all campers/RVs storage was on the list. Finding things that function as more than storage is key. The first trip, we spent a lot of time inside because of the cold. Chances are, that would happen again. So, one thing that we didn't have since we opted for the jack-knife sofa was something to prop your feet on when sitting on the sofa. A few stores and patience paid off though. Two small ottoman's that had storage inside AND could be used for additional seating should we need it. They fit perfectly in the bedroom on each side of the bed when traveling and would serve 3 functions if needed...a foot prop, storage and additional seating.

Removing the bathroom shower curtain was another much needed change. The factory hooks do not offer options for a liner and a decorative outer curtain. We wanted to get a few extra inches in the shower so by using a tension rod, we could move the curtains out about 2 inches. Removing the factory track with hooks would leave holes that we would have to seal but the tension rod would be more stable. There are other plans for the factory track and hooks that are being removed from the bathroom. While in the bathroom, we opted to remove the factory nozzle. We replaced it with 72" long stainless shower head with an on/off switch.

After much debate, we finally opted to install a TV. Looking for one that could be used as a monitor was the intent, as we may have trips that will require working while on location and the larger monitor would be very useful. We were not able to find one so we opted for a 32" FireTV that weighs 13.5lbs. It had the proper hole spacing on the back for the factory mount, light weight and inexpensive. While testing the fit, we noticed the sound was very hard to hear sitting at the dinette. A little research, patience and time, we were able to wire sounds through the factory stereo speakers throughout the camper. Now, when we want to watch our favorite YouTube videos or test our own, we can hear them and see them!

Of course, adding a few small personal touches like photos, hooks for leashes and keys, over the door hooks in the bathroom and bedroom and trash bag holder below sink were a few of the 'fun' modifications.

As we began to plan the next adventure, we looked at the weather and realized that we might need some additional shade. Our 20 foot awning might work for the afternoon, but depending on how we setup, we might need something for the morning or evening. So, again we researched and found where others recommended using a mesh tarp to hang from the awning. We were unable to find one in stock locally, so we ordered one. We opted for the 10foot x 20foot mesh screen and hooks. We will have to give a review if we use it on the next adventure.

A few things we added to the underbelly of the camper was a very thin, lightweight outdoor rug, that would most likely last only a few times out. We also added our outdoor chairs, a camping table, a plastic storage container for outdoor kitchen essentials and a storage container for smaller outdoor items like dog leads, dog water bowl, table cloth etc.

For now, we are done with modifications we think will make the next adventure even better than the first. Be sure to check out our Instagram for pictures and short videos of most of our upgrades, maybe even some not mentioned here.

Would love to hear what you may have done to your Alpha Wolf.