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Maintenance of your recreational vehicle, be it a toy hauler, fifth-wheel or motor coach usually requires a bit more attention that would your home or car alone. There are generally these areas that need maintenance or attention:
Electrical systems/batteries/DC/AC/generators
-Check all fuses
-Replace batteries in fire/smoke/CO2 alarms at least annually
-Change oil in generator when at manual’s suggested run hours or annually
-Change generator oil filter, elect plug (if you have one) annually or sooner
-Run your generator every month for two straight hours with A/C on.
-Inspect all visible wires for wear or exposed metal wire.
-Inspect all storage batteries for low water. Fill to recommended levels.
Water systems/pumps
-Drain annually all lines, water heater, tank and check for junk.
-If water pump comes on by itself often, check for leaks around joints and connections.
-If in storage for more than 8 months, recommend purging tank following Instructions of owner’s manual.
-Check for leaks around ALL plumbing
-Replace all water filters at least annually
Propane/heating/cooking/hot water
-Check all joints with soapy water mixture for leaks. Replace corroded connections or tanks. Replace all hoses that have severe cracking.
-Clean gas venture in heater with small wire brush annually.
-Open outside access door to refrig and inspect for corrosion and debris.
-Drain hot water heater annually to check for buildup of calcium or crude.
Slide-outs
-Check for loose bolts, corrosion and dryness. Lubricate with silicon-based product specifically designed for slide-out systems, at least annually.
-Wipe down all rubber seals and joints with silicon-based product designed for that purpose.
A/C systems
-Change/clean filters at least annually. If possible, check for pressure of coolant and recharge if low.
Waste systems/holding tanks.
-Flush thoroughly at least annually with a good tank cleaning product. Follow instructions of maker of cleaning product.
-Check for cracks and wear on pipes you have access too. Check for seals around toilet and drain outlet.
Springs/joints/tow points
-Check for wear on joints and loose bolts. Tighten where necessary.
-Lubricate often if you do off-road a lot.
Tires/axles/bearings
-Check tire pressure to manufacturers specs.
-Check tire treads. Make sure you have enough tread and watch for unusual wear such as in on the inside or outside edge (indicates over inflation or misalignment.
-Rotate tires at least annually.
-Check brakes and have them adjusted if necessary
-Check wheel bearings/axle bearings-repack if necessary
Roof/siding/flooring/vents
-Check roof for potential leaks around vents, ladder attachments, edges, anywhere something is bolted to the roof. Repair or caulk as necessary.
-Check vents for cracking around corners and hinges for corrosion. Lubricate annually.
-Check for all vent caps to be in place. Put one on if missing.
-Check ceiling inside rig, especially around corners, and walls. Inspect for leaks, and repair if necessary. If cracking, seal with good joint or caulking compound.
Doors/windows/hatches
-Check all seals around doors or windows for wear and tears. Replace where worn away or damaged.
-Lubricate all hinges, joints or cranks.
-Check that latches and locks are firm, but not tough to open and close. Lubricate with a lock lubricant if hard to open/close.
Latches/tie-downs/racks
-Check for loose bolts/screws on tie-downs and racks. Seal with caulking or window sealer if on outside of rig. Check for corrosion and replace if weak.
Beds/couches/cabinets/drawers
-Check for wear/tear, loose threads, or sagging on couch or bed. Re-stuff or replace cushions to your liking.
-Add topper to bed mattress if getting lumpy.
-Check handles/hinges on drawers and cabinets for loose screws or wear. Replace as necessary.
-Lubricate hinges if squeaky.
This list is by no means complete, but it gives you a good start on keeping track of what needs to be paid attention to. I know it looks like a lot (it is), but by maintaining your rig, you will avoid possibly very costly repairs.
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