Now that summer has officially started, it’s time to prep your RV for long trips on the road. If you have been an RV owner for quite some time now, you know that getting your RV ready for summer takes more than just the usual checks. Here are some tips for you to get your RV ready for summer:
Check Under the Hood
If you kept your RV away for the winter, then you must be ready to put in extra work to bring it out from storage. It is very important that you look under the hood to check the engine. By doing this, you can check the oil, coolant, brake fluid and water levels in the engine as well as spot any torn hoses. If you are not confident enough to do this, you can always bring your vehicle to a mechanic…but who needs to spend a lot for a simple check-up? There are DIY instructions for RV engine checkups online you can refer to when carrying this procedure out.
Check What’s On The Outside
As important as checking the engine, you also need to check all the outer systems of your RV. See to it that all your lights are functioning and secure a replacement for busted ones. If you have a rear view camera installed, be sure to also check if it is still operational. Vents and cabinets must also be inspected to clear any nests that insects leave behind.
Checking your tires is imperative. There are air pressure gauges specifically available for RV tires in the market today and if you don’t already have it, it’s best to invest in one. Having a blowout on a trip can be life-threatening so make sure your tires are in tip-top shape.
Don’t Forget the Inside
Batteries should also be checked and maintained. Be careful not to undercharge or overcharge the batteries before setting out.
Secure all the cabinet doors and drawers inside the cabin. You don’t want things falling off while you are on the road. Also, see to it that all the other equipments inside the RV are functional. Clean the airconditioner and double-check the smoke, gas, and carbon monoxide alarms.
Also, inspect all the hoses on board your RV. Water leaks can be destructive and repairs can be quite costly so don’t simply ignore wayward hoses or small leaks.
One of the major concerns of RV owners is the holding tank maintenance. No one wants to live in a stinky RV so see to it that you stock up with basic disinfectant, toilet papers, and cleaning products.
Drive Away!
Upon complete check up of your RV, you can now start packing and get ready for a fun-filled adventure on the road. Be sure to take everything you need without overloading your RV. Remember, the lesser weight, the more mileage you cover.
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{ 2 comments… read them below or add one }
For owners that store their RV’s near wooded area’s I would also check under the doghouse to ensure that there are not any squirrel nests. My RV actually caught fire due to a nest. This resulted in a bunch of the wiring, vacuum lines and spark plug wires being burnt beyond use and leaving me stranded. I now check every year and usually find a nest of pine cones, needles and leaves.
~ excellent articles, vacpan, trafficmaster, & seasonal prep. good information, well writen.