Keep Your RV Road-Worthy with Regular Maintenance From Professionals
Keep Your RV Road-Worthy with Regular Maintenance From Professionals
RVs give you the freedom to travel and explore while still having a comfortable place to sleep and live. However, they require regular travel trailer repair and maintenance to keep them in good condition for the road. Neglecting maintenance can lead to breakdowns, costly repairs, and ruined trips. With some simple preventative maintenance and by addressing issues promptly, you can keep your RV road-ready for adventure.
Important Summer Maintenance
During the summer travel season, be sure to check the following:
● Battery - Clean corroded terminals, check fluid levels, and test for efficiency. Replace if needed.
● Detectors - Test smoke, carbon monoxide, and LP gas detectors. Replace batteries if needed.
● Open Everything Up - Open windows, vents, slide-outs, awnings, storage compartments. Check for leaks, pests, or any damage that occurred while closed.
● Hinges and Locks - Lubricate hinges and locks so they don't freeze up.
Battery
The battery supplies power when you're not plugged into shore power. Make sure the terminals are corrosion-free, add distilled water to maintain fluid levels, and test the charging efficiency at least yearly. If your battery is more than 2-3 years old, consider replacing it even if it still holds a charge.
Detectors
Test all safety detectors before each trip. Smoke and carbon monoxide detectors have a limited lifespan and should be replaced every 7-10 years. Replace batteries in battery-powered detectors yearly.
Open Everything Up
Before extended trips, open up the RV fully to air it out and check for any issues. Open every window, ceiling vent, and storage compartment. Extend slide-outs and awnings. Look for leaks, damage, critters, or anything unusual.
Hinges and Locks
Lubricate hinges on doors, compartments, and awnings. Spray locks with dry graphite powder to ensure smooth operation. This prevents seizing up in humid conditions.
Tires
Inspect tires for wear and age. Tires degrade over time even if not used. Replace tires when they get to 2/32nds of an inch or every 5-7 years. Check pressure before each trip, when tires are cold. Ensure the spare is properly inflated as well.
Winter Maintenance Tips
To prepare for colder weather:
● Winterize plumbing and add RV antifreeze
● Check window, door & other seals for leaks
● Test furnace and heaters
● Clean and test fridge, burner and vents
● Check battery charge & terminals
Check the AC
Make sure AC units are cleaned and serviced before summer trips. Replace filters and sanitize ductwork to provide clean cool air. Have a technician check for refrigerant leaks.
Remove the Battery
When storing the RV for winter, remove and store the battery indoors on a trickle charger. This protects battery life.
Clean Inside and Out
Give the interior a deep clean before storing. Vacuum, wipe down surfaces, and sanitize the bathroom. Exterior should also be washed and waxed before storage.
Contact Mainline RV & Truck Service for Travel Trailer Repair and More
For additional maintenance, repairs, or upgrades, contact our expert technicians at Mainline RV & Truck Service. We service all RV types and provide travel trailer repair you can trust. Keep your RV in peak condition for wherever adventure calls and contact us today.
