Checklists RV Maintenance and Service (Fluid) @ TexasTraderRV.com

RV Maintenance

Proper care and maintenance of your RV is the best way to keep it in good running order, save you money in the long run and prevent an untimely breakdown from spoiling a trip. These are some helpful hints that any RVer, regardless of mechanical ability, can do to help maintain the vehicle and ensure that each trip starts out on the right note.

Fluids, Filters and Battery

A primary element of RV maintenance is regularly checking fluid levels. Fluids and filters should be regularly changed. Make it part of your pre-trip routine to check these important fluids. It's also a good idea to check these fluids on a monthly basis if you haven't used your RV lately or if it is in storage. Check your RV owner's manual for its maintenance requirements and schedule.

Check engine oil, brake fluid, transmission fluid, brake fluid and power steering fluid and top off any that are low.
Many motor home manufacturers recommend that in addition to regular scheduled oil changes, you should change the engine oil and filter prior to storage and in the spring. During storage, the oil can separate causing a condensation buildup that may harm your engine.
Check the cooling system. You may need to flush and replace the old antifreeze with a proper coolant. Be sure to check for cracks in all hoses and fan belts and replace if necessary.
Check the fuel filter and examine the fuel lines and fittings for cracks and leaks.
Check the spark plugs. Be sure to set the gaps to the recommended manufacturer's setting using a gap setting tool.
Check and clean the carburetor or service the fuel injection system.
Check the air filter and replace if dirty.
Check the battery. Clean the cables and terminals with a wire brush, grease and reconnect. Depending on your battery, you may have to fill the cells with distilled water.
Check the air filter to make sure it's clean.

Exterior Inspection

As part of your pre-trip routine it is also important to examine the RV's exterior.

Remove any protective covers and wash the exterior. Air out the interior by opening all roof vents and windows. Remove any pest control items you may have placed to protect interior and exterior compartments during winter storage. Clean or replace air conditioner filters.
Check the exterior. Inspect the roof and body for signs of damage. Look for deterioration of seals around the doors, roof vents and windows, reseal if necessary. Remember, old sealant must be removed before new sealant can be applied. Now is also a good time to lubricate hinges, locks and other moving parts. If you have an awning, roll it out and check for damage, mildew and insects. Inspect the headlights, including high and low beams, the taillights, brake lights, and turn signals. If you have a towable RV, be sure to examine the hitch system for wear, loose bolts and cracks.
Check the tire pressure while also looking for cracks, uneven or excessive wear and any objects stuck in the tire that could create a leak. Don't forget to check the spare tire as well! Inspect the tires. Check the tires for cracks, worn treads and correct tire pressure. Tighten the lug nuts to manufacturer specifications. Make sure the lug nuts are tight on both outer and inner wheels.
Look underneath the RV, taking a deep breath to see if you smell gasoline, diesel or LP gas. If you do, shut down all pilot lights and get professional help.
Check the liquid propane (LP) system. Connect the tank, open the valve and check the system for leaks by brushing soapy water on all connections. If any leaks are detected, close the valve and take your recreation vehicle to a professional repair facility.
Check for leaking fluids. If you discover a leak, move the RV and check again, noting the color and location of the leak in relationship to the RV. Have a certified RV technician at a dealer or service center inspect the vehicle if there is a leak. Be sure to relay the information about the color of the leaking fluid and the location of the leak.
Flush the water system. Close all faucets, including the shower head. Drain and flush the nontoxic antifreeze you used in storing your recreation vehicle from your entire water system. You may have to flush the system several times to remove the chlorine taste.
Prepare for a safe season. Even after all the mechanical components have been checked, you should never set out on a trip without proper safety equipment. Install new batteries in smoke and carbon monoxide detectors. Check the expiration dates on fire extinguishers. Restock the supplies in the first aid kit.
The vehicle's owners manual should provide more detailed information and maintenance schedules. RVIA also has a number of enthusiast publications that provide more in-depth information on a wide range of RV topics, including maintenance.
RV owners should follow the maintenance schedule recommended by the manufacturer and have regularly scheduled maintenance and repairs done at an RV dealership or service center -- no one understands RVs better.

Servicing Your RV

Here are some tips to help select an RV dealership or service center and ensure that you have a quality service experience.

No matter how good future technology becomes, periodic inspection of your vehicle by a professional will never be obsolete. A checkup by an experienced RV service technician can be a real lifesaver and money saver.
Read your owners manual and warranty so you'll know what to expect from your RV, what your responsibilities are and what systems and components are covered by whom.
Look for the red, white and blue Certified RV Technician sign, which indicates the dealership or service center employs RV technicians certified through an industry-sponsored program conducted by the Recreation Vehicle Industry Association (RVIA) and the Recreation Vehicle Dealer Association (RVDA), who are committed to customer satisfaction.
Research the dealer or service center by talking to current customers to determine the quality of work and record of customer satisfaction. It's also a good idea to look for state, local or industry certifications, like the Certified RV Technician sign, throughout the shop.
It's important that you feel comfortable with the professionals you entrust to service your RV. With confidence comes the ability to communicate openly about your concerns and needs.
Request written estimates for all service work and ask for written notification for any additional repairs not covered in the original estimate. Also request that replaced parts be given to you for inspection.
Let the service manager know immediately if you're not satisfied with repair or maintenance work performed on your RV.

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RV Maintenance

Fluids, Filters and Battery

Exterior Inspection

Servicing Your RV

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