Preparing Your RV for the Season

The warmer days mean it's time to start looking forward to the new travel season. Before heading out it pays to properly prepare your RV for the trip. Here are some tips to making sure everything is covered before you head out on the road.

Thoroughly check the chassis system. The fluids ' oil, antifreeze, brake, transmission and power steering fluids should all be checked and at appropriate levels. When was the cooling system last flushed and maintained? If you can't remember it might be time to have it done. With a cold engine check over belts, hoses and the clamps holding it together for excess wear and replace any that are worn. Check the radiator for wear and replace if needed. Have cooling fluids filled and tested for antifreeze level ' remember that it not only keeps your system from freezing but results in more hot weather protection also. Make sure the outside of the radiator is cleaned for efficient operation.

If a belt squeals or if the pulley is shiny it indicates that the belt is slipping. Check serpentine and V belts and adjust or replace if necessary.

Top off the windshield washer fluid and check the battery connections. A good battery is not an option in an RV ' it is a necessity. Double check the brakes ' both parking brake and the foot brake. Make sure lights, flashers and horn work. Stock extra fuses of all sizes that might be needed. While you're checking fluids, belts and other vitals check the air cleaner and replace if needed. With fuel costs as they are, it pays to get every mile you can out of a tank and proper maintenance not only reduces the chances of breakdowns, but also helps your rig operate more efficiently.

Look over the tires thoroughly for tread wear, tire pressure and tight lug nuts. Remember to also check the spare tire. The only thing worse than a flat tire is getting the spare out to find it flat also! Along with appearances check the date on the tires ' this is a date next to the DOT number. While you're checking these things have the bearings and alignment checked.

Go over the generator and make sure it's running properly. Service the air cleaner, oil level and check the battery. Go over the stove and oven to make sure it is operating properly. The air conditioning system should be serviced, changing air filters if needed and cleaning the coils. Make sure the fire extinguisher is fully charged and the smoke detector has fresh batteries.

If you pull a trailer double check the hitch, chains and lights for wear. By checking these things in advance it saves an untimely breakdown or, worse, an accident.

Fill propane tanks for the RV. Stock the RV with a full supply of kitchen supplies, linens and home products. A well stocked kitchen and bath saves money and insures when you need something it is there.

Shortly before heading out don't overlook packing the outdoor items - folding chairs, radio, lanterns, ropes, tarps, tools, extra batteries for all items, shovel, ax, wooden blocks and levelers. Make sure to also have packed an accurate atlas, campground guide and other informational materials needed.

Check insurance paperwork, inspection or emission stickers, license tag dates and make sure all is updated before the summer months. Having this done before leaving means one less thing to deal with on the road. If you're members of Good Sam or other clubs pay those for the year so there is no lapse.

Reducing your chances of breakdowns makes for a much happier trip, prevention is always less expensive than a breakdown.