Forum Downtime - software update 2/18-20 2025

[Janet H]

We are on track to convert the forum to new software. It has been many years since we've had a platform update, and it's finally time.

To do this, we'll need to close the forum. This is scheduled for Feb 18-20 beginning very early in the morning (subject to change if there are complications). The forum will be back online Thursday Feb 20 (exact time unknown). There will be some noticeable changes upon returning to open:

The Forum is moving to a new modern and mobile-friendly software platform (XenForo). All the usual controls will be available, but buttons and functions will be moved around a bit. Modern software means a much better browsing experience! Look for a "How To" thread in the forum admin section after we reopen to help with your questions.

Your account is already integrated into the RV LIFE network login system and your login will not change.

Other changes:
The forum colors and header image will be updated
Image storage and avatar size will be increased.
PM inbox storage will be increased
Responsive for mobile use: There is no mobile app needed. XenForo has a mobile view that is entirely responsive to device size. Use a browser to open the site and you'll have a good view. You can even set an app-like icon on your phone (really a bookmark)

New functions:
Image handling will be improved. You can still upload images in the usual way but will also be able to simply paste directly into a post.

PMs will be labeled as "conversations"; same function, new title and tada: images can be added to these conversations.

There will be an updated and improved table editor and new tools for great-looking replies to posts.

New Albums to hold images in your profile if desired

New OP badge to denote the Original Poster (thread starter) of a thread - handy for long topics.

RV LIFE Pro Members

Ad free viewing for forum members who have RV LIFE Pro subscriptions. (Trip Wizard and the RV LIFE Mobile GPS) they will also have a cool new badge displaying on their profiles

Be patient after the site opens, it takes a little time to get settings dialed in, but we will bring the site back online as soon as possible (even while adjustments are still being made).

If you have any trouble logging in, please use the contact link at the bottom of the site to reach the help desk. We can help with account issues, and password resets if needed.

We'll all have a learning curve when the site updates, but we believe that the faster site response and more robust features will be a great improvement.

 

[cadillackid]

fantastic.. I really like the xenforo, it pretty much fixes many of the shortcomings of 'vB' and takes it further.. im on another forum that uses it and its really nice. the mobile piece of it is worth it alone without havign to use tapatalk,



vB has been a great forum software over the years.. ive used it and even written some software for it way back when but Xenforo is a fab upgrade!!


as a Software / developer / CTO / Business owner mysekf.. I wish you all the best on your upgrade that it be smooth!.


to those who arent in the field, *please be patient*, these upgrades are colossal and kinks often need worked out no matter how many times the cutover is "practiced" ahead of time..

 

[AlphaHare]

Thanks and here's to a smooth transition! :Thanx:

 

[Rucker]

Awww, just when I wuz gettin' used to thangs..

Seriously, good to hear, thanks for everything, and good luck with the update.

 

[nikitis]

Our only requirement is the preservation of old posts.

I saw no mention specifically if old posts are being converted over. I hope this is an assumption but need to be sure. There is invaluable information provided by all of the users, even from 6 years ago.

If this is not the case then we'd like copies of the database. If this cannot be provided then we need more time to archive important posts before migration.

Otherwise looking forward to the update, especially being able to insert pictures mid post.

 

[Janet H]

Our only requirement is the preservation of old posts.

I saw no mention specifically if old posts are being converted over. I hope this is an assumption but need to be sure. There is invaluable information provided by all of the users, even from 6 years ago.

If this is not the case then we'd like copies of the database. If this cannot be provided then we need more time to archive important posts before migration.

Otherwise looking forward to the update, especially being able to insert pictures mid post.

Posts and images will be preserved. Your account login will remain unchanged.
Navigation around the site will be about the same and the mobile interface will be SO MUCH BETTER. All good

 

[Payin_Bills]

Good luck on the upgrade and I'm looking forward to the changes! Hopefully a better mobile experience will mean I'll spend more time here rather than doomscrolling on Instragram lol