Meet John Crean, an inventor whose ideas shifted the landscape of the RV world. For anyone curious about how RVs became modern homes on wheels, Crean’s influence cannot be overstated.
His innovations are key to understanding why RVs today are more than just vehicles—they’re experiences.
His contributions changed the RV industry. His work opened new doors, making RV travel as convenient and enjoyable as it is today.
Dive in to see just how much one person can change an entire industry.
1) Introduction of the Fleetwood Bounder
In the world of RVs, the Fleetwood Bounder is a big deal. John Crean, who started Fleetwood, came up with this cool RV. When it hit the road in the 1980s, people noticed.
What makes the Bounder special? It’s packed with new ideas. Imagine extra storage, so you have more room for your stuff. Plus, better fuel efficiency meant you could travel further without breaking the bank.
The Bounder feels like home. The inside is comfy and practical. You get everything you need for a road trip. Cooking, sleeping, relaxing—it’s all sorted.
So, when you see a Bounder rolling by, you know it’s not just any RV. It’s one of the standouts that John Crean brought to the world.
2) Creation of Subfloor Water Tanks
Imagine going on a road trip with an RV and not worrying about your water storage. John Crean’s innovation made that possible. By designing subfloor water tanks, he changed how space was used in RVs.
These tanks were placed under the floor of the vehicle. That means more room inside for travelers like you. It also helped balance the RV by keeping the weight lower down.
With this change, RVs became more comfortable and efficient. You could travel longer without stopping to refill water. It made life on the road simpler and more enjoyable.
Have you ever looked at an RV and thought about where everything fits? Thanks to Crean, the extra space made RVs feel more like home.
3) Redesigned Panoramic Windshields
Imagine hitting the open road with a clear view of everything around you. Redesigned panoramic windshields are just that. They offer a wider field of vision, making it safer and more enjoyable to drive your RV. You can see more of the scenery without needing to turn your head as much.
These windshields are not just about safety. They bring the outside world into your experience. You feel more connected to your surroundings. Whether it’s mountains, forests, or sunsets, the view is right in front of you. Plus, they can make your RV feel more spacious inside.
John Crean saw the need for better design in RVs. By changing the shape of windshields, his innovation allowed for more light and improved visibility.
It’s a minor change that makes a big difference on your trips. The redesigned windshields have become a big part of the RV experience. They transformed how you see and enjoy the road.
4) Innovative use of residential-sized appliances
John Crean made RVs feel more like home by using residential-sized appliances. He believed you deserved the comforts of home on the road. So, he found ways to fit bigger, more familiar appliances into the limited space of an RV.
Think about having a full-sized refrigerator instead of a mini one. It lets you store more food, just like at home. Big ovens made cooking meals just as easy as it is in a regular kitchen.
This change also included dishwashers and microwaves. These might seem simple, but they made life easier for people living in RVs. You could enjoy the same kitchen conveniences while traveling.
The focus on comfort and practicality set new standards. You no longer had to sacrifice amenities you enjoyed in your regular home while exploring the open road.
5) Development of the Lock Box Chassis
When you’re thinking about RV innovations, the lock box chassis is a big one. John Crean came up with this design to make RVs more durable and safe. This chassis structure helps keep everything stable, even when the road gets bumpy.
A lock box chassis is tough. Its design spreads the weight evenly and lets the RV move smoothly. This means a quieter ride for you and your family, making your journey much more comfortable.
Safety is another great benefit. The lock box chassis lowers the center of gravity. It helps prevent the RV from tipping over. That gives you peace of mind while exploring new places or just cruising down the highway.
This innovation lets manufacturers build bigger and more spacious RVs without sacrificing stability. The design improved how RVs were built for years, keeping you comfortable and safe on every adventure.
6) Design of aerodynamic ‘canned-ham’ trailers
You ever seen a trailer that looks a bit like a shiny canned ham? That’s John Crean’s doing. He created a design that changed how trailers move on the road. His “canned-ham” trailers are streamlined and more aerodynamic.
This shape means less air resistance when pulling the trailer. It makes driving easier and saves on fuel. Plus, these trailers have a cool retro look that loads of people love. They’re a mix of style and smarts.
With this design, John Crean showed the RV world how style and function can work together. It’s a big reason why “canned-ham” trailers have become classics. They’re a great example of fun and practical design in one package.
7) Leadership in Fleetwood Enterprises’ Expansion
You might wonder how Fleetwood Enterprises grew so fast. John Crean was not just a leader; he was a visionary. He saw opportunities where others didn’t. His strong vision turned Fleetwood into a giant in the RV world.
Crean’s way of thinking helped the company find new paths. He made important decisions that pushed Fleetwood into new markets. This helped the company reach more customers and become a household name in RVs.
John Crean believed in teamwork and encouraged his employees to explore new ideas. He created a work culture that valued innovation and hard work. This motivated everyone to strive for success, making Fleetwood a strong brand.
Fleetwood’s success came from Crean’s ability to build a solid foundation. He focused on growth and always aimed to be the best. His leadership helped the company become a leader in the RV industry.
8) Adoption of Flattened Coach Fronts
Have you ever noticed how some RVs have a flat front? This design makes them look sleek and modern. Unlike the older rounded designs, a flat front cuts down on wind resistance when you’re driving.
By reducing the drag, you often get better gas mileage. This can save you money on long trips. Plus, the flat design creates more interior space. You have more room to add features and comforts.
With the adoption of this design, RVs have become more efficient and spacious. It reflects a blend of style and practicality that changed how we think about RVs today.
9) Incorporation of RV/MH Hall of Fame standards
John Crean brought a fresh focus to quality when he embraced RV/MH Hall of Fame standards. His approach set new benchmarks for how recreational vehicles were made.
With these standards, you noticed an improvement in craftsmanship. Crean prioritized durable materials and reliable construction.
These standards also encouraged creativity. Crean’s team focused on practical designs that made traveling more enjoyable for you and your family. This led to more comfortable and functional RV interiors.
