My Alpine is 13 years old - Maintenance

[Lindenberg]

Next year I'm due for a new set of tires. While I have the tires off what else should I consider?

Air springs/bags - Should I replace the four air springs/bags? I read someplace that the air springs are good for around 10 years. I would much rather replace something on my schedule than spend my vacation days waiting for an air spring to be replaced. My bags do have small cracks in the rubber.

Below are the part numbers for my air springs:
Firestone air suspension
Front W01-358-9039
Rear W01- 358-9482

(The correct air spring for the AD-200-7 rear suspension used on early coaches is safholland (Neway) 90557161, Triangle 8492, Firestone W01-358-9482. For some reason not many distributors stock them.)

Brakes - In 2006 when I purchase the Alpine, WRV replaced the brake calipers. Once the piston issue came to light I have been flushing the brake fluid every two years.

Thanks,
Tom

[EngineerMike]

Air bags is a good PM chore at your age. Also, check the condition of the flexible brake lines that connect steel lines to the calipers; you can get steel braid replacements made locally most places (check w/a local NAPA or other locally owned parts shop).
Do brake maintenance (I think you have rail slide or pin slide brakes that take high temp silicone lube). Brake fluid replacement should be a 30 min chore w/the wheels off.

[Doggy Daddy]

Maintenance on an RV is like eating an elephant. It is big and you can't eat it all at once, Take one bite at a time. Prioritize repairs by having it inspected first, and then budget.

[Old Scout]

Good topic--brake and brake related issues are the most likely targets of opportunity while the wheels are off [eg, check: lines, pads, rotors]. Other things include: wheel bearing seals [replace?], bearings, front hub oil [replace], and shocks [replace].

Also as a reminder but not related to wheels-off --based on "your" age and depending on last check/changed: differential oil, engine coolant, hydraulic fluid, tranny fluid, HWH fluid?????, check all electrical connections [both 12 an120v][breaker and junction boxes], check for dirt in A/C coils [condensor and evap] for both roof tops and dash air. Engine stuff: turbo boost levels, boost leaks[pipe and CAC], turbo door arm lube. A lot of this is obvious--some not so much......

[Lindenberg]

Thanks all for the suggestions. Now the hard part begins...deciding which tires to get.

[Algoma]

If you don't have them you may want to consider adding mudflaps behind each wheel. I did that last year. I am sure you have read everyone's opinions on tires so I will resist the temptation to start that discussion up again. Check with major truck stops as they will usually pay you for your old tires while most dealers will not.

[vsheetz]

Originally Posted by Lindenberg

Thanks all for the suggestions. Now the hard part begins...deciding which tires to get.

Usually pretty easy choice for me - Michelin XRV. Last set I bought was via the FMCA discount program.

[Algoma]

Originally Posted by vsheetz

Usually pretty easy choice for me - Michelin XRV. Last set I bought was via the FMCA discount program.

Except they don't fit the Alpine Coach.

[Dave Fernandez]

Hello Tom; hope you are doing well. I would also look at changing the heater hoses it is a tough job but with the Alpine that is now 13 years old, I would put it on the top on list of things to do, it is on my list for my 01 this next year. I know I must drop the fresh water tank to get route the replacements and remove a section of the old hoses and empty the bays. I have not decided if I am going to silicon heater hose of rubber hose heater hose. The silicon hose will would not to be replaced again because they can last 20 years or more where rubber will have to replace again in roughly 10 years. It all depends on how long you want to keep the coach. The big difference is the cost, over $3.00 per foot for silicon. I would also replace the radiator hoses at the same time.

Do not forget to flush the brake fluid!

[gjstacy]

Originally Posted by Lindenberg

Thanks all for the suggestions. Now the hard part begins...deciding which tires to get.

My other half wouldn't have anything except Michelin...and with the FMCA discount, I don't think you can go wrong. Get the best you can afford...

[gjstacy]

Our Michelins are XZA2...whatever that means...I'm just a girl, so what do I know????

[EngineerMike]

I recommend that any Alpine 2003 or earlier that hasn't previously done so to change out their brake light switch. These corrode & fail to light the brake lights, release the crosse control (& operate trailer or toad brakes where applicable). It's a Cole-Hersee part (part number available by search here on Alpine forum) you can order at local NAPA or online, and do on a pm basis.

[tiredvet]

Originally Posted by Lindenberg

Thanks all for the suggestions. Now the hard part begins...deciding which tires to get.

Part of the purchase agreement on our coach was to split the cost on a new set of tires and after reading on the subject till my eyes crossed I went with a set of Bridgestones, I'll be starting my third year with them. The ride is a night and day difference from the Toyos. I must say that I read a lot of blogs on Mitchelins blow outs and having issues dealing with the company on replacing. Just saying

[alpinedrvr]

Hi Jim

In what way are the Bridgestones like night and day!! Good or bad. I'm sure good but just checking as I have Toyos on still and they seem OK for me but I'm always looking for something better.

Geoff