It’s important to make sure you maintain your recreational vehicle at all times, whether it’s parked for the season or ready for a new adventure. Read on for some tips related to RV maintenance in Flagstaff, AZ to ensure your vehicle is good to go!
Change or replace
From fluids to brake pads, make sure all RV elements are in good condition:
- Change the oil: It’s recommended that you change the oil in your car every 3,000 to 7,000 miles. RVs, however, tend to sit parked for long periods of time, in which case it’s important to change the oil on a seasonal basis to ensure the internal working parts continue to stay well lubricated. Replace the oil every 3,000 to 4,000 miles or once a year (typically in springtime) to prevent excessive wear and tear on the engine.
- Replace various filters: The air, fuel, coolant and hydraulic filters in your RV should be changed every season. Inspect these filters at every oil change, and replace them as needed.
- Maintain the brakes: RV brakes that are not maintained are a threat to your safety and the safety of your passengers and other motorists on the road. At least every spring and before any road trip, check the condition of the wheel bearings and make sure they are properly lubricated. Since brake pads wear down over time, you or your mechanic should confirm that the brakes have enough material left on them to function properly.
Inspect and test
While you can do some maintenance yourself, some types of RV maintenance in Flagstaff, AZ require a professional’s touch:
- Inspect roof seals and seams: Check your RV’s roof for leaks every three months. Water can get through any open seams in the roof’s vents, edges and skylights, and may even come in through the air conditioning unit. Water can cause a variety of damage to your RV. When choosing a sealant to patch a leak, make sure it’s compatible with the roof material.
- Check tires and wheels: Each RV trip should begin with a thorough inspection of the tires and wheels. Start by tightening the wheel lug nuts and measuring tire pressure to ensure that all is well. One thing about tire pressure is that under-inflation can be just as dangerous as over-inflation, so keep a tire pressure gauge in the glove box and measure each tire often throughout your journey.
- Check the batteries: Be sure the battery is fully charged at all times, and know what kind of battery your RV needs. Some batteries have required water levels you need to stay on top of, while others are relatively maintenance free. Keep in mind that most RV batteries last three to five years. The battery lifespan tends to depend on how much you use your RV and whether you drive it or tow it.
- Test electrical connections from the tow: If you own a towable RV, make sure the electrical connection from your RV to your tow vehicle is in good working order. This connection is what transmits the electrical signal from your tow vehicle to the RV you’re pulling. It turns on the RV’s brake lights every time you hit the brake pedal.
Need reliable RV repair in Flagstaff, AZ? Come in to Maclin Truck & Trailer today to get your RV ready for your next trip!