If you own an RV, you know that it requires some general upkeep. You can’t let your rig sit in your driveway without any care and expect it to run perfectly when you’re ready to hit the road again.
On the other hand, if you’re frequently using your camper, you’re going to have some general wear and tear happening. It’s a good idea to follow some general maintenance tasks to make sure your trailer keeps running smoothly and is ready for whatever trip you may have planned.
If you want to see what RVs are available in your area or you need a trusted service department to take a look at your model, give us a call at Bourbon RV in Bourbon, Missouri. We proudly serve St. Louis and Rolla. Let us know how we can help you get ready for your next adventure!
Before You Start
Before you begin any RV maintenance, you should consult your owner’s manual. This will tell you specific tips relating to your RV, as well as any potential hazards that you should be aware of. We are happy to provide some general tips, but we suggest using your manual as your primary resource.
Visual Inspection
Some of the main ways to perform general upkeep on your RV is by conducting some visual inspections. This includes checking on your rig as often as you can and seeing if there’s anything concerning.
Start with the exterior inspection. During this, you should look for any natural wear and tear, damage, dirt and grime, and anything else that may be concerning. Be on the lookout for signs of leaks and water damage as well as rusty pipes. Inspect all seals, and don’t forget to inspect the roof! Your exterior will take the most damage on the road, so make sure you perform a thorough inspection.
Next, you’ll want to inspect the interior. Check for mold and mildew, water damage, and any other signs of damage or disrepair. If you’re taking your RV out of storage after a long period of time, you should also check for bugs and pests.
Your appliances are a huge part of bringing the comfort of home on the road, so make sure you also inspect these. Check their performance by hooking up your rig to a power source and testing all the appliances.
Check the Tires
No matter what kind of rig you have, checking the tires is going to be a part of the RV maintenance. You should be regularly checking your tires using a pressure gauge to make sure the tires are reaching the recommended psi for your model. You’ll also want to check for any concerns regarding the tread. Wear and tear can lead to balding tires and not having the necessary grip on the road.
Maintain Seals
Water damage can be extremely detrimental to your vehicle, so it’s imperative that a part of your maintenance is checking on seals and repairing them as needed. Time and damage can cause leaks, especially on the roof. Keep your RV clean so you can clearly see any leaks. Use some sealant to patch up any small holes you find. Also check on the seals surrounding the windows as these can easily crack.
Generator and Battery
The inner mechanisms of your RV need attention and care to run smoothly. The generator should never sit for too long without being run since the gasoline will deteriorate and cause damage. It’s a good idea to run the generator for two hours every month at half-capacity.
If you’re storing your RV for a long period of time, you should remove the battery completely and keep it in a temperature-controlled area. Keep in mind that you may need to replace your battery every five years or so.
Do you have any more questions on RV maintenance? Give us a call at Bourbon RV in Bourbon, Missouri. We are proud to serve St. Louis and Rolla. We’ll help you find the perfect camper for all of your outdoor trips in the years to come!
