Owning an RV can be a rewarding experience, offering endless opportunities for adventure and exploration. However, like any vehicle, RVs require regular maintenance to ensure they remain in good working condition and to prevent costly repairs down the road. In this article, we will explore five essential maintenance tasks that every RV owner should perform yearly to keep their vehicle in top shape.
A video from the “The Camping Loop” dives into these tasks in detail. Below, we highlight the key points from the video, and make sure to watch the entire video at the bottom of the article for a comprehensive guide.
1. Check and Maintain Tire Pressure
“One of the biggest things you can do, especially storing it for over the winter time, is make sure your tires are inflated to the right pressure,” says the host of The Camping Loop. Tires are one of the most critical components of your RV, and neglecting them can lead to expensive replacements.
Over the winter, tires can lose air and develop cracks, so it’s crucial to keep them properly inflated. A tire pressure gauge is a handy tool for this task, ensuring your tires are ready for the next adventure.
Think of your tires like your morning coffee—without the right amount of pressure, neither of you are going anywhere!
2. Lubricate Moving Parts
“Use like a white lithium grease on these,” the host advises while discussing the importance of lubricating various moving parts on your RV. Stabilizer jacks, tongue jacks, and slide-out mechanisms all need regular lubrication to function smoothly.
Ignoring this can lead to annoying squeaks and potentially costly repairs. A silicone-based lubricant is ideal for slide seals, while white lithium grease works wonders on metal parts.
If your RV sounds like a haunted house every time you set it up, it’s screaming for some good old-fashioned lubrication!
3. Clean and Maintain the Awning
“One of the simple things you can do is make sure your awning is cleaned real well before it’s put away for winter time,” says the video. Awnings are exposed to the elements and can accumulate dirt and grime, leading to wear and tear. Cleaning your awning with mild soap and water, and lubricating its joints, can extend its lifespan significantly.
Treat your awning like a diva—clean it, pamper it, and it will perform its best show every time!
4. Test the Breakaway Cable
“It’s more of kind of just testing it every year,” the host mentions while explaining the importance of the breakaway cable. This cable is crucial for safety, as it activates the trailer brakes if the RV becomes detached while towing. Testing it annually ensures it functions correctly, providing peace of mind on the road.
The breakaway cable is like the seatbelt for your RV—better safe than sorry, unless you enjoy impromptu RV rodeos!
5. Battery Maintenance
“Batteries are expensive,” the host reminds us, emphasizing the need for proper battery maintenance. Disconnecting the battery and storing it on a trickle charger can prevent it from dying over the winter. Additionally, never store your battery on a concrete floor, as this can drain it.
Think of your RV battery like a pet—give it the attention it needs, and it won’t bite you in the wallet later!
By following these five yearly maintenance tips, you can avoid many common and costly repairs, ensuring your RV remains a reliable companion for your adventures. For a more detailed guide, be sure to watch the full video from The Camping Loop below.
