Tech Tips

Tips for Summer use of an RV.

The warm lazy summer days are a great time to do a little easy maintenance. Most of this you can do yourself.

Very Important! We continue to see far too much water damage in both the roofs and side walls of all RVs. Most RVs over a few years old are leaking now, you just can't see the problems until there has been a lot of damage For your protection, please follow these recommendations.

Rubber roofs are now the most common. Most modern roofs can be walked on but be careful, they can be very slippery when wet. When in doubt, use a 4 ft. by 4 ft. sheet of plywood to keep form damaging the roof.

Carefully inspect the roof seams for cracked or peeling seam sealer. Re-seal with a seam sealer designed

for rubber roofs.

Look over the entire roof for tears or holes. Check the side corners for cuts or rubs. Rubber patches are available.

Look into the refrigerator and air conditioner vents to check for bird or squirrel nests. Clean out any you find

Check the plastic roof vent lids to be sure they are still flexible. Replace any that crack easily.

If your rubber roof is over 10 years old check for thin spots. Most rubber roofs will only last 10 to 15 years before replacing.

Side walls are just as important as the roof, check every opening in the side walls for cracked sealer. Pay particular attention to cab-overs on mini homes and the four corners on all RVs. Re seal as needed. Sight down the side wall on laminated bodies looking for bulges or soft spots.

For trailers with sheet plastic on the under side, cut a 1 in. by 1 in. tab in the plastic near the 4 corners so you can stick your finger in and make sure the insulation is dry. Don't bother to seal the tabs, a little ventilation is good. Have your dealer inspect any problems you find.

This is also a good time to paint any rust on the frame or LP tanks. Note that LP tanks should only be painted white.

Inspect the tires for cracks or bulges. Check the tire pressure and lug nuts.

Use spray silicone to lubricate window slides or hinges.

Lubricate step hinges.

The following is best done by a dealer or mechanic.

Check the brakes and grease the bearings.

Test the LP regulator and check for leaks.

Have a great camping summer. Bob Moore.