RV Maintenance Tools to Have on Hand at All Times

Every time you take to the road in your RV, your vehicle experiences more and more wear-and-tear. This means that there’s potential for a problem to develop somewhere along your journey. It also means you need to be performing ongoing maintenance to keep your rig running its best. 

Finding someone to fix a problem or tackle maintenance at a remote destination can be costly, and you may struggle to find a trustworthy option. By having certain tools readily available, you will be better equipped to handle any challenges that come your way during your travels. Below are some items that you should always keep handy when you hit the road. 

Engine Fluids

Keep engine oil and coolant in your RV at all times. You never know when your gauges will indicate that you’ve dipped too low, and buying on the road could be costly. If you’re in a particularly remote area, you may have trouble finding the right blend for your rig. Driving your motorhome without the recommended fluids could lead to expensive engine damage, so always having some on-hand is wise. 

Replacement Belts

If your RV has belts in the engine, keep some extras with you. Should you shred a belt while driving, you can pull over and replace it. And if you don’t want to make the repair on your own, having them available will help your roadside mechanic get you back on the road more quickly or prevent delays if you find yourself at a shop that may not have the right belt in stock.

Roof Sealant

What happens if your roof has a leak while you’re at a campsite? If you don’t address the problem, your rig could turn into a breeding ground for mold and mildew. If you have sealant, you can quickly address the leak and continue enjoying your trip without undue risk.

Hose Repair Kit

A small puncture or opening in your hoses can turn into a serious problem, but a hose repair kit can help ensure that you’ll be ready to address the issue if it should arise. Consider adding a small patch kit and extra rubber gaskets to your hose repair kit to make sure you always have water available at your campsite for any cleaning and cooking needs.

Tool Kit

If you don’t already have one, buy a basic tool kit to keep in your RV at all times. You’ll need screwdrivers and wrenches for almost any repair or maintenance task you tackle on the road. You’ll also want your tool set to include the basic nuts, bolts, and screws you use in your rig, as well as a pry bar, hammer, cordless drill with bits, caulk gun, and headlamp.

Filters

Both the air filter in your motorhome and the fuel filter in your engine can fill up with grime while you’re traveling. Keeping these in your rig means they’re easy to swap out when problems occur. If you don’t feel comfortable doing this job on your own, having the right filter available will still speed up the process whenever you go to a mechanic. 

Electric Meter

If you have to troubleshoot electrical problems with your rig, an electric meter helps you do so safely. If you’re installing a new light to replace a broken one, or dealing with unexpected electrical issues, you can check the current and avoid a dangerous shock. 

Extra & Replacement Parts

Finally, make sure you have some basic parts available should something need to be replaced. Extra light bulbs that fit your light fixtures and headlights or tail lights, replacement RV locks and keys, and extra antennas or cable cords are all great things to have at your disposal. 

Maintenance and repair is part of the life of an RV owner. If you’re properly prepared, these tasks will be easy. Take time to stock up on some tools and parts before you hit the road, and enjoy monetary savings along the way.

 

 

‘Tis the Season: Holiday Gift Ideas for the RV-er in Your Life

Is there an RV enthusiast on your holiday gift-giving list this year? If so, you should consider giving them something that they can enjoy the next time they take their rig out. From decorative items to use around their motorhome, to practical items that will make their house-on-wheels safer and more functional, here are some of the top gift ideas for the RV-lover on your list.

1. New Floor Mats

Keeping an RV clean means wiping your feet well before entering, and many RV enthusiasts will use floor mats outside to help protect their motorhome’s floors. If your friend or family member doesn’t have an attractive floor mat for their rig, add this to their Christmas list. This is the type of gift that is both practical and appreciated, and it will get used on many adventures throughout the years.

2. Light Fixtures

Is the lighting in their RV a little outdated? If so, an updated light fixture will be a welcome holiday gift. This will allow them to modernize their rig so they can enjoy a new look, but it will also add more functionality to their motorhome – everyone needs proper lighting to fully enjoy their space.

3. RV Electronics

If you’re looking for a gift they’ll love, consider giving them some new electronics to upgrade their house-on-wheels. LED TVs help save space and provide a clear picture for late night movie viewing. Bluetooth stereos, including outdoor waterproof options, help provide a way to stream radio stations and their favorite music playlists while they’re cruising down the highway. They’ll also improve the overall sound quality for all of the media in their rig. 

4. A New Lock System

For those who enjoy the RV lifestyle, keeping their motorhome secure is a top priority. Unfortunately, the locks that come standard on most RVs are easy to break or pick, leaving their belongings at risk for theft. Many RV enthusiasts choose to upgrade their locks to help protect their valuables. While you’ll want to make sure they haven’t already done so, if they have not, contemplate gifting them a superior lock system to better protect their rig and their belongings while they’re camping. 

5. Vehicle Maintenance Equipment 

Tire gauges, leveling blocks, tool kits, and even cleaning supplies for a vehicle, may not seem like flashy gifts, but they are items that the RV-lover in your life will appreciate and use on every trip. 

6. Nesting or Folding Cooking Equipment

From collapsible measuring cups to nesting mixing bowls, cooking equipment that saves space is a must-have for any RV-er’s kitchen. Find something they don’t already have, and they’ll appreciate the new addition to their kitchenware next time they’re making a home-cooked meal in their house-on-wheels.

7. National Parks Pass

A National Parks Pass gets an RV owner and up to four people in the same vehicle into any national park in the country. It’s an affordable option and opens the door to some of the country’s most beautiful locations without the fear of expensive entrance fees. If you know they are planning some trips that will include national parks, they will most definitely treasure this thoughtful gift.

8. Propane Fire Pit

Many campgrounds are now banning wood-burning fires because of the risk of non-native pests coming in on firewood. Cooking s’mores and hot dogs over an open flame is one of the biggest trademarks of camping, and a propane fire pit ensures that they can enjoy this tradition even if a particular campground doesn’t allow wood-burning fires.

Holiday gift giving is always a challenge, especially when shopping for adults. Yet, if the adult on your list is an RV owner, you will find a number of gift options that they will both need and appreciate. Start shopping using this list, and you’ll know that their gift under the tree is going to be something they will truly love. 

Quarterly RV Maintenance Checklist

Owning an RV means paying attention to maintenance. Some tasks may be needed every time you take your rig on the road, some might only need to be completed once a year, and some require a quarterly approach to ensure they’re properly addressed. Here are the important things you need to do each quarter to make sure your RV is kept in tip-top shape. 

1. Test the Electrical System

Your electrical system needs regular checks to ensure it’s not creating any possible safety issues. Start with connecting the system to shore power, then checking the circuit breakers. Inspect each fuse to make sure it’s working properly. Next, check all outlets, lights, and appliances to confirm they’re functioning correctly. If you find that one of these isn’t working, and there’s nothing wrong with the device itself, it may mean that your motorhome has an electrical problem. After testing all of these areas, check the battery voltage for proper charge.

2. Inspect Your Appliances

In addition to verifying that the appliances have the right electrical flow, double-check that the appliancesthemselves are working well. This means you will need to use the microwave, turn on all of the stove burners, heat up the oven, and check the refrigerator and freezer temperatures. You don’t want to end up at a campground only to find that your fridge isn’t keeping your food safe, or that your oven isn’t heating up. When performing these tests, listen for unexpected or unusual sounds, and get professional assistance if you locate a problem.

3. Check Your Propane System

Like the electrical system, your propane system can be a potential source of danger to your RV. You’re required to have a propane leak detection system, so begin with this. Make sure that the sensor is located near the floor and is working properly by using the test feature. After that test is complete, open the propane valve and close up the RV. Wait for two hours and then check to see if the alarm is sounding. This will tell you whether or not you have a leak. If you find that you have a leak, address it immediately.

4. Lubricate Your Locks and Hinges

Your quarterly maintenance check is a good time to give your RV locks and hinges some lubrication. If you notice any issues with these, go ahead and replace them. By giving them some TLC every 90 days or so, you can be confident that they’re going to provide reliable service the next time you hit the road. 

5. Read the Mileage 

Another important step to remember is checking your RV’s mileage. This will help you determine if your rig is due for an oil change or brake service. Even if you’re confident that it’s not time for these services yet, it only takes a moment to read the mileage and cross-check it with your existing maintenance records. Follow your recommended service schedule based on the number of miles driven, not the date on the calendar. 

6. Examine the Brakes

Perform a visual inspection of your brakes to confirm that they’re looking good. If you notice worn out brake pads, get them replaced before your next trip. For trailers, use a contact cleaner to clean the brake connector at this time as well. 

7. Update Your Maintenance Log

You may think that you’ll remember the maintenance tasks you completed the next time your quarterly checks roll around, but just to be safe, grab your maintenance log and record the work that you’ve completed. This will give you peace of mind and help you figure out what tasks need to be done next quarter. 

Keeping up with maintenance is a crucial part of owning an RV. Every 90 days, take some time to conduct a thorough check through these items. By doing so, you can help make sure that your rig is ready next time you’re struck with the desire to head out onto the open road.

 

 

5 RV Maintenance Tips to Never Overlook

As the colder weather begins to settle in, many RV owners are getting prepared to put their rigs away for the season. Now is an excellent time to give a little extra thought when it comes to your rig’s maintenance. After a busy summer full of travel and camping, your RV probably needs a little bit of TLC. In addition to washing and winterizing your motorhome, here are some important maintenance steps you should follow.

1. Cover the Roof

The roof of your RV, which is where many of its vents are located, takes a real beating from the sun, rain, snow, and ice. Snow buildup on the roof of your rig can cause costly damage, and sun exposure can result in fading paint and faulty seals. One way to prevent these potential problems is to cover your RV. Whether you park it under an awning, store it in a garage or enclosed storage facility, or cover it with a tarp – make sure the roof is shielded from the outdoor elements before you stow it away for the winter months.

2. Run the Generator Regularly

Next, make sure you run the generator regularly. If possible, run it for a short period of time every single month by turning it on for two hours at 50 percent load. This will prevent the gasoline from going bad, and ensure the generator is ready to serve you well when you’re done storing your rig. If you can’t do this because of where you’re keeping your RV, consider adding a fuel stabilizer before storing it in order to protect the fuel and the generator.

3. Inspect the Seals and Trim

The off season is an excellent time to ensure that the seals and trim in your RV are in good shape. Inspect them for gaps, cracks, separation, and any other signs of damage. Failing seals will allow pests and dust into your rig, which is something you want to avoid at all costs. Both can cause pesky problems, and pests can create some serious and costly damage. While the trim is less vital, it’s still an important part of the aesthetics of your RV. The off season gives you the opportunity to make sure all of these are in good, working order.

4. Take Care of Slide-outs

If your unit has slide-outs, you’ll want to lubricate the mechanism before storing your rig. This will help prevent rust or corrosion when you’re not using them. It will also help to ensure they’re working smoothly when you open up your RV again in the spring. Lubricating is easy, simply spray or spread lubricant on the mechanism, and let it do its job. While you’re working on this, reinforce the seals on the slide-out. 

5. Check Tire Condition

Your tires worked hard all summer long to get you to and from your chosen camping destinations. Make sure they’re not in need of replacement by checking their pressure. Inflate the tire to the pressure recommended by the manufacturer or on the RV’s federal label. Always check the pressure when tires are cold, because this will be when the pressures are at their lowest. Next, inspect the tread. For the best safety, you need at least 4/32 inch of remaining tread on your tires. As you inspect this, look for bubbles, uneven wear, or separation – all of which mean the tires need to be replaced.

It’s easy to forget about your motorhome during the winter, but you need to make sure you keep up with maintenance all year long… even during the off season. Ignoring maintenance will leave you with costly repairs next time you want to hit the road. Take some time to give attention to these tasks, and store your RV confidently knowing that it will be ready for the spring travel season.

 

 

Home Sweet Motorhome: 4 Decorative Tips & Tricks for Your RV

Getting your RV ready for camping season or your next road trip often requires a lot of work getting the practical items you need ready so you can travel in comfort – but you still want your RV to look great after all is said and done. Once you’ve completed all steps necessary to ensure your rig is up and running safely, there are some finishing touches you can put on your RV to allow it to really shine. Whenever you find yourself prepping your RV for your next big adventure, consider adding using these four decorative tips and tricks to make it truly feel like your home away from home.

1. Swap out Drawer and Cabinet Hardware

If your RV is looking a little outdated, one of the easiest things you can do to make it look modern and fresh is swapping out the drawer and cabinet pulls and handles. New, updated options can breathe life into your motorhome without requiring any major remodeling. You’ll be surprised at just how clean and polished your space will look with some new knobs and pulls.

And while you’re shopping for these items, take a look at your stove. Are the knobs on it looking a little dingy and gross? Take the time to replace them to get rid of the grit and grime. These small swaps do not cost much, but can make all the difference.

2. Add New Lighting

Light fixtures are another area where an RV can really start to show its age. What was considered attractive and popular a decade ago now looks dated and worn. In addition, light fixtures can become coated in dust and grime that’s tough to remove after many years of use.

When upgrading your lighting, you have a few options you can consider. One is to simply upgrade to a modern version of what you already have. You may be pleasantly surprised at the impact this will have on the overall look and feel of your rig. Another option is to go with a funky, eclectic fixture – for instance, just because your RV is small doesn’t mean it can’t have a chandelier! Consider bunk and reading lights for convenience and function, as well as aesthetics, when making lighting upgrades.

3. Add a Fun Floor Mat

Floor mats on your RV’s exterior are an aesthetically pleasing yet functional component. These give you a place to wipe your feet or remove your shoes after a busy day exploring, so you don’t track mud and other debris back into your RV. Yet the mat that came with your RV is likely boring, and doesn’t reflect your own personal style. Consider upgrading to a fun floor mat that has a customized picture or design that better matches your personality.

4. Swap out Bedding and Window Coverings

Is the bedspread in your master bedroom indicative of your style? You don’t have to stick with bland bedding. Upgrade to something that speaks to you – after all it’s probably the room you want to feel most comfortable in. 

Additionally, if the window coverings have seen better days, consider making an improvement. This is another area where you can add your own flair, while still upgrading your rig for a more modern, polished look. 

As you can see, it is easy to give your RV a new look with a few simple upgrades. If your rig is looking outdated, or you’re just a little bit tired of the same old look, consider some of these simple and speedy updates. You’ll be shocked at how big of a difference they’ll make in the enjoyment of your RV. With a few decorative touches, your RV will truly feel like home. 

Six Security Tips for Your RV 

Because an RV is typically parked out in public, it is often vulnerable to theft. Unfortunately, many of the built-in features of an RV do little to protect it. Oftentimes, rigs are equipped with locks that are easy to pick or break if a thief is dedicated enough. 

If you’re looking to make your RV as safe as possible, you may want to upgrade your rig’s security features while also practicing smarter camping techniques. Here are six tips you can use to make your home-on-wheels more safe and secure.

1. Upgrade the Locks

The first place to look for RV security is with your locks. Make sure the locks on your RV are not accessible using a mastered key, because it’s all too easy for a thief to gain access to one of these keys. You may also want to replace those pesky compartment locks keyed to CH751. People are becoming more and more aware of the commonality of this key that has been used for decades. With these cam locks, you can have your storage areas keyed to match your entrance doors with a non-mastered cylinder.

As you begin to upgrade your RV’s locks, be sure to address all areas of your rig. Remember to upgrade window locks and locks on all storage areas on the outside of your rig in addition to the doors. All latches should have locks installed for the highest level of security. Upgrading the locks on your RVis the first step to protecting it, so take it seriously. 

2. Park Smart

When you get to your campsite, consider the way you park your trailer. If you back into the parking spot, you’re also making it easier for thieves to hitch up your trailer and take it with them. If you can, turn your camper so the hitch is facing away from the access area. You’ll likely need a jockey wheel to accomplish this, but it makes it much more challenging for someone to drive off with your trailer while you’re out exploring. 

3. Use a Boot

Clamping a wheel or two on your motorhome with a boot is an effective way to prevent a potential theft. The only way for a criminal to take off with your RV when it is has a boot on it is to remove the tire completely. Many boots are now designed to cover the lugs as well, so it’s almost impossible to remove the tire and steal the RV if a boot is present. 

4. Remove Temptations

If you want to deter thieves, do not leave something tempting out for them to find. Locking your doors and windows is important, but if you leave the blinds open for everyone to see what you’re storing inside your rig, you may fuel a potential thief’s motivation and determination to break into your motorhome. Always remember to keep your valuables out of sight to make your RV and its contents less tempting. This means closing the shades every time you leave your rig. You may also want to install a safe in your motorhome for the most secure storage of your precious items. 

5. Consider a Security System

Just like you can for your sticks-and-bricks home, you can purchase a security system for your RV. Motion detector lights are a great option, as these will illuminate your camping spot at the first sign of movement. Alarms that blare when someone enters your RV is another option. Just make sure you have full control over the security system, so you can easily turn off any false alarms.

6. Stay Smart

When choosing a spot to camp, select a place with lots of other people. Not only will this make your camping experience more fun as you make new friends, but it will also mean you’ll have some temporary neighbors that can look out for your rig and your stuff when you’re not around. Remember, thieves like to work in quiet areas where they’re less likely to be spotted, so camping around other people can help deter criminal activity. 

When it comes to preventing theft from your RV, or even theft of the RV itself, you are the first line of defense. The choices you make and the security upgrades you give your rig will help protect it, but you have to remain on guard. When you leverage these six strategies, you can rest assured that your RV is as secure as possible. 

Must-Have Items for Your RV Living Areas

We’ve talked about the kitchen and bath. Now let’s talk about the living room and bedrooms and what you need to complete them.

Whether you have a brand new RV that you wish to customize or have an older rig that needs some upgrades, there are many places to focus your time and investment. Once the bathroom and kitchen are upgraded, you need to turn your attention to the living areas. The bedroom and main living area can certainly benefit from upgrades, and here are some must-have features to consider adding.

Upgraded Hardware

Just like the cabinets and drawers in the kitchen and bathroom, the cabinets and drawers in your living area, including your closets, have hardware. If that hardware is visible, you may want to consider upgrading it to a more attractive and modern design. This is one area where you can let your personality shine in your RV. The interior hardware can be upgraded as well. These pieces have less to do with the aesthetics of the RV and more to do with the function of the drawers and cabinets, but if it’s time for an upgrade, you will enjoy greater function if you go ahead and change out the drawer slides.

Heating and Cooling System

While the heating and cooling system technically covers the entire RV, it is worth mentioning here as it makes the living areas more usable. When it comes to aesthetics, the covers of your ventsare an important consideration. If they’re looking dingy or are covered with grime, it may be time to consider a replacement. The roto vents are important for the function of your heating and cooling system. When they start to wear out or become too dirty, you can replace them quite affordably. Finally, consider the ductwork, and replace it when it starts to get caked with grit and grime.

Stereo and Radio

Is it time to upgrade your rig’s radio with a more modern design? Today, Bluetooth stereos are increasingly popular in RVs, providing you the option to stream your favorite channels or playlists wirelessly from your phone or tablet. Since it can be challenging to take a stash of music with you on the road, and figuring out what local channel to listen to isn’t any simpler, a Bluetooth radio will make your music easier to enjoy. You may also want to consider a waterproof optionfor use outdoors or near the bathroom or kitchen.

Lighting Upgrades

A well-lit bedroom and living area is going to make your enjoyment of your RV just that much better. Lighting can quickly become outdated, so consider upgrading this part of your RV as you renovate it. From ceiling lights to pancake lights and wall sconces, there are several lighting optionsfor you to consider for your RV. Do you need more light in an area? Consider a strategically placed bunk or reading light. You can even upgrade some of your overhead lighting to an attractive chandelier to give your RV more character and pizzazz. Upgrading switches can also provide more enjoyment for your rig. Consider dimmer switches and switches that are LED backlitfor a more modern flair.

An Entertainment System

What are you going to do on those rainy days when you’re not out camping? An entertainment system ensures you never miss your favorite shows or can enjoy a movie night when the weather isn’t cooperative for outdoor exploration. When it comes to building that entertainment system, the sky’s the limit. Start with a high-definition LED TV, then add a media center that gives you streaming and DVD-playing options. Add speakers and a sound bar– you may even want to consider full surround sound.

As you customize and update your RV for your next trip, don’t neglect these main living areas. After all, they are where you will spend much of your time – so make them as attractive, comfortable and functional as possible with these upgrades