FCCC Provides Tips on Getting Your RV Out of Storage and Ready for Travel

DriVer · 03-02-2011, 03:00 PM

By Tony Sippel, RV Product Manager at Freightliner Custom Chassis Corporation, Gaffney, SC

For many RV owners, flipping the calendar to the springtime months means it’s time to get the motorcoach out of winter storage and get ready for the travel season. Freightliner Custom Chassis Corporation (FCCC) understands the call of the open road – but don’t rush your vehicle’s removal from storage: The right preparation will help ensure smooth roads ahead.

While your owner’s manual and a little patience are the most crucial tools in prepping your RV, we recommend keeping this step-by-step checklist handy:

When removing your tire covers, take an extra moment to inspect them for damage before inflating them to the correct pressure specified in the Tire Guide. If you’re not sure how much your coach weighs, have it weighed to prevent improper tire inflation.
Look beneath the coach for evidence of fluid leaks before checking levels of engine oil, coolant (both in the reservoir and radiator) and hydraulic fluid. Top fluids off if necessary.
In the engine compartment, check all belts and the engine fan for wear and damage. Additionally, examine all hoses and wiring for evidence of leaks or damage, and keep an eye out for nesting animals.
Check the fuel water separator. If it’s empty, prime the fuel system following the instructions in your coach’s engine manual.
Check the rear axle lubricant level.
Lubricate the chassis and drive train.
Check the battery’s charge level and clean the ends of the battery cables. If it’s time to change your battery, install a clean and fully charged one. Remember to connect the positive (+) cable before the negative (-). Finish by coating the terminals with a protective dielectric spray.
Turn the ignition to the “run” position and verify that the fuel gauge and voltmeter are operating properly.
If your coach was stored on safety stands, lower it to the ground and set the parking brake.
Lubricate the exhaust brake (Pac-Brake, if equipped) cylinder and moving parts, then check the transmission fluid level, making sure to use the cold check method in the Allison Transmission operator’s manual. Add fluid if necessary.
Start the engine and run it until it’s warm. Be sure to look around the RV and underneath it for potential fluid leaks.
Check the exterior lights, and replace any non-working bulbs or fuses.
Build up the air and then air drain the tanks to clear any moisture.
Take a five-mile test drive, give the generator a run while you’re out, and make note of any vehicle operational problems. As soon as you’re back, re-inspect all belts and recheck for leaks.

Following these easy but critical steps will get your travel season off to a solid start, and you’ll be even more assured of a safe trip when you hit the road.

To learn more about FCCC, please visit www.freightlinerchassis.com.

Tony recently participated in the Freightliner Chat as FCCC Service. The Freightliner Chat is held monthly at 9:00pm Eastern.

Our next FCCC Chat will be on Friday, April 1st. @ 9:00pm EST.

Source RV D@aily Report, By Greg Gerber.
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