RV has been sitting idle for the winter. Most of the early signs of spring are here, and it's time to take it out of storage and prepare for training camp this year and chassis season. If you're like me, you want to follow a logical order rather than a random check of the unit. I made a simple checklist to be used, that nothing is overlooked. Most prefer this spring prepare myself. If you are more comfortable having someone else do we schedule an appointment with a reputable RV service center it has been that it is.
* Depending on how you winterized units will be de-winterized. If used, non-toxic antifreeze is needed to run the entire system with fresh water until all traces are gone antifreeze. To remove the 12-inch water pump water and fresh water storage tank, turn on the pump and open all water taps. If the antifreeze out of your system, turn off the pump and take out the water heater by-pass mode (if any). Re-install any water filter cartridge is removed for storage.
* I like this point, to disinfect the water system. Make sure you are excluded from the sewer and drain plugs are installed. Take a quarter cup of household bleach every fifteen gallons of water in the fresh water tank holds. Mix the bleach water from a one gallon container and pour the fresh water holding tank. Fill the fresh water storage tank is filled with water. Turn on the pump and open all faucets, run the water until you smell the bleach. Close the faucets and allow to stand for at least twelve hours. Drain all the water and re-fill the tank with fresh water. Turn on the pump and open all faucets until you smell bleach. It may be necessary to repeat this process to eliminate all signs of bleach.
* The water system under pressure, check the water leakage. Check the operation of the toilet.
* Wash the device thoroughly. This is a good time to inspect the roof and body seams, cracks and window sealants that would allow water to penetrate. Ask the dealer for sealants compatible with these materials.
* Check the operation of the awning tent cloth and clean as necessary.
* Check for signs of tire dry rot. Inflate all tires to the recommended cold tire pressure.
* Lubricate hinges and locks spray lubricant.
* Remove tape or may be a protective layer to make the LP gas through the openings to keep out insects and rodents. Make sure you put out mousetraps all. Open all doors and compartments and check out rodent intrusion and water damage.
* Inspect and clean the interior.
* Plug any suitable storage devices unplugged and replace dry batteries then removed. This is a good time to get new batteries items like smoke alarms.
* Let us examine the operation of the carbon monoxide alarm, smoke alarm and LP gas leakage.
* Make sure the fire extinguisher. It is important that it is fully charged.
* Reset may be any circuit breaker that is turned off. If you remove the fuses storage reinstall them.
* Clean or replace air filters if it is not done in front of the store, and remove the cover, which is slipped over air conditioners.
* Open windows and vents and the air in the unit.
* When removed to install them storing the coach and chassis elements. Whether it is removed or not, check the electrolyte level, clean the terminals and clamps, and check the battery level every element. Recharge the batteries when necessary.
* Check the operation of the electric steps, if applicable. Lubricate mechanism.
* Test the operation of the hydraulic jacks if applicable. Check the level of hydraulic fluid.
* Check the operation of the back of the camera and monitor, if necessary.
* If you do not change the oil and filters before storing the generator is a good time to do it. Before starting the generator exhaust system damage. Start and run the generator for two hours at least half the rated load on it. Ask for the book based on the generator load.
* Turn the generator off and connect the unit to shore power. Turn on the heat in the electric mode. Allow enough time to cool down and check for proper operation.
* Check if all 12 V interior lights and accessories.
* Test the proper operation of the monitor panel.
* Check the operation of the slide outs if necessary.
* Check proper functioning of the 120 volt devices.
* Test the Ground Fault interrupter (GFI) for proper operation.
* Turn off the heat, leaves the door open, and sufficient time for it to room temperature, it can control the gas mode.
* Before use, the LP gas system has a leakage test and gas operating pressure test preformed. A specialist in the proper equipment to do these tests.
* Once that is done, turn LP gas tap and check the operation of all LP gas appliances. It may be that the water heater is full of water before testing the water heater. If the boiler is not working properly have it inspected by a qualified technician. Insects are attracted to the odorant added propellant and build nests which may affect the proper functioning of the device.
* If the power has been a long-term storage and is not changed before the engine oil and filter storage it would be a good time to do it.
* Check fluid levels of all the gear, steering, engine coolant, engine oil, washer and brakes. Consult vehicle owners manual.
* Start the engine and check the corresponding measured values of the light. Make sure the dash air conditioner to function properly.
* Perform a complete if it did not happen for chassis in front of the store. Check
* state in case of the wiper blades and, if necessary, replace it.
* Check the operation of all lights chassis.
* Make sure that emissions / vehicle inspection sticker up.
* in addition, if you have a pop-up caravans or wheel bearings and brakes (if any) must be examined at least once a year. Check for any canvas dry rot and tears; Check the hitch all the work and integrity of the coupling. Check the breakaway switch and proper functioning of pigtail.
Happy Camping
Mark
Copyright 2006 by Mark J. Polk owner of RV Education 101