Keep your rig in tip-top shape with these 6 tips
Whether for a short time or for all time, RVs can provide an excellent home. Quaint and cozy, they offer a nice living space with all of the necessities within arm’s reach. And while the house part of the RV is certainly important, owners can’t forget that it’s also a motor vehicle. This means that routine maintenance can’t be ignored. To help ensure you get the most out of your RV and that is has a nice long life, here are some key tips to follow:
Change the oil
Just as you need to change the oil in a car regularly, the same is true for your RV. Your owner’s manual can tell you the manufacturer’s recommendations for how often you’ll need a change, but it’s usually somewhere in the 3,000 to 4,500 range. It’s also important to change your oil yearly even if you don’t reach the 3,000-mile mark. If, for example, you use your RV once a year for a long trip, make sure to change the oil before you take off.
Examine the seals
Moisture is a common problem in RVs, and it is usually caused by water leaking in. Over time, water can cause a lot of damage and also create mold. This is why it’s important to check the seals around your door, windows, and roof every 3 to 6 months. You should look for any cracks, holes, or water stains. If you notice any issues, you will need to replace the weather stripping or use a sealant.
Keep your brakes in good order
Good brakes are essential for any vehicle, and perhaps especially an RV. Because an RV is so much bigger and heavier than a typical car, you have to be confident that your brakes will allow you to slow down and stop when you need to. You can maintain your brakes by ensuring the wheel bearings are always properly lubricated.
Check the battery
Aside from the brakes, the battery may be the most important part of your RV. Depending on which type your RV uses, you need to know how old it is and when it should be replaced. A deep-cycle battery begins losing its capacity after about three years. A start-type battery usually has around a five-year lifespan. If your RV will sit for long period of time in cold weather, it’s a good idea to take the battery out and store it in a warm place.
Treat the waste water system correctly
Nothing will immediately foul up (pun intended) a trip like a poorly-working waste water system. If this isn’t maintained well, it can get clogged, which can cause valves to seize and a failure of the system. To avoid this, you have to make sure you’re utilizing the right chemicals for your system and that you flush it regularly. Using biodegradable toilet paper is also a smart idea.
Take a close look at your tires
Tires are another part of your RV you should look at closely, especially before embarking on a trip. You’ll want to do two things. First, make sure the lug nuts are tight. Second, check each tire’s air pressure. Your owner’s manual should be able to tell you what the correct pounds per square inch (PSI) limit is your RV. Both over-inflated and under-inflated tires are dangerous and hurt your gas mileage.
Just like anything else, you need to give your RV the right TLC so it will give you great performance for years to come. Read more of our blog posts for tips and information on maintaining your RV.
