Regularly inspect the RV undercarriage for signs of wear, and clean away road salts and debris when necessary.  Prior to going under the motorhome, turn off the ignition, set the park brake and chock the wheels.

When traveling in coastal areas, or over roads where de-icing agents are applied to eliminate frost build up, it is important to frequently wash the undercarriage area to remove salts and chemicals.  Thoroughly wash the area with a soap solution and rinse using high-pressure water.

Frequently look at the undercarriage area.  Excess acid from overfilling or overcharging the batteries can contaminate the undercarriage and cause corrosion.  If any areas of the undercarriage are tarnished by battery acids, exposure to salt air or chemicals used to remove ice from roadways, spray the corroded area with a neutralizing product, available at most auto supply stores.  Allow the product to sit for 24 hours and then paint over the area.  Be sure to wear gloves and safety glasses when using chemical products.

Avoid running over items in the roadway or deep pot holes that can damage undercarriage components.  If you experience obstacles in the roadway, or a sudden tire blow out, carefully inspect the undercarriage area for signs of damage.

Scraping the undercarriage on speed bumps or low driveways can cause damage to the engine and chassis, as well as cracks and scrapes to fiberglass skirts.  If the RV is driven in an area with a low-lying surface that may cause the vehicle to ‘bottom out,’ drive at a very slow speed to protect the undercarriage area.

At least one time each year re-seal the undercarriage to guard against pests and rodents.  If you live in an area where outdoor temperatures regularly fall below freezing during the winter months it may be a good idea to have extra insulation added to the undercarriage.

Check the jacks when they are down to be sure everything is in working condition.  On a monthly basis, wipe the jacks to remove dirt and debris.  Using a clean cloth, lubricate the jacks with automatic transmission fluid.  Put the fluid on a cloth and wipe the ram clean.  Avoid too much fluid that may attract unnecessary amounts of dirt and debris.

Inspect the springs, particularly when you are in a travel trailer or fifth wheel.  Broken leaf springs or spring clamps on travel trailers and fifth wheels can cause leaning or lowering on one side of the vehicle.

Lube chassis components as recommended in the vehicle OEM manual.  When greasing the drive shaft and steering axle, keep adding lubricant until new grease appears at the exit points.