Toy Hauler Or RV Maintenance

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.