PRVCA Explore PA 2021 | Page 15

Turn to Your Certified Service Center for Some Maintenance
The 120-Volt Electrical system should be tested for Hot Skin . Hot Skin is a voltage leak from the AC voltage to the exterior of the unit . It can be found on the frame , entrance step , or other areas . At the same time , an electrical outlet test and GFCI Test can be performed . Other safety apparatus should also be inspected : LP Leak Detector , CO Detector , Smoke Detector .
Motorized chassis maintenance is specific to the manufacturer specifications . Take your motorized RV to an authorized manufacturer service center to follow the recommended maintenance . Towable RVs need to have chassis maintenance done a minimum of annually or every 10,000 miles . The technician will perform a bearing repack . The repack will consist of removing the wheel bearings , cleaning and inspecting them for wear or other problems , and then packing them with a quality high temperature bearing grease . At the same time , the technician will inspect the brake shoes and magnets for wear and make sure they are operating properly . The springs and shackles as well as other axle fasteners will be inspected and serviced as required .
An RV is often likely to be the second or third largest purchase made by a consumer . A sizeable investment for most . Water damage can destroy an RV and often severely depreciate the RVs value . A little maintenance provides a lot of protection from potentially very costly repairs . The exterior materials used to build an RV are generally very tough and not susceptible to water penetration . However , the manufacturing and design requires many access points be cut into these materials . Windows , vents , doors , roof racks , and a myriad of other attachments to the roof and sidewalls of RV , all requiring sealants to protect from water intrusion . The seam between the sidewalls and the roof is a transition of materials and therefore requires a sealant .

Turn to Your Certified Service Center for Some Maintenance

Take advantage of your local certified service center and your technician ’ s experience and have them perform a sealant check every three to six months . The service center has tools to pressurize the interior of your RV , allowing them to identify leaks more easily . The technician is experienced at spotting issues and will easily identify potential leak issues . He or she will recommend the best method of correction to protect your investment .
Here are some parts you should inspect every time you intend to use your RV .
• Inspect your batteries
• Check the water level if they are not a sealed , maintenance free battery . Use distilled water to top them off
• Check the connections for corrosion and ensure they are tight .
• Check any fuse holders that may be located near your battery
• Inspect the propane system
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• Verify you have sufficient propane for your trip
• Inspect the hoses from your propane container to the RV looking for wear tear and rodent chewing damage .
• Turn on your LP appliances
• Look at the burners to ensure they are burning with a nice blue flame
• Pay particular attention to the back of the refrigerator that to make sure there is no nesting debris in the vent or in the back area .
• Inspect the furnace vent to ensure it is clear of mud dauber nests
• Inspect the water heater burner for a nice blue flame
• Chassis inspection
• Check your tire pressure and fill to the pressure listed on the tire safety label located on the side of your RV
• Check your tires for excessive or unusual wear .
• Walk around the RV looking for anything unusual
Follow these tips and listen to advice from your experienced RV technician to keep your RV running properly for all your adventures .
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