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Tech Tip 260: 03/14/08 - Spring Tune Up I Wash the undercarriage with a soap solution and rinse using high-pressure water. Wipe the jacks to remove dirt and lubricate the jack ram with automatic transmission fluid. Apply the lubricant sparingly to prevent excess from attracting increased dirt and debris. Lubricate the driveline. If you are have a travel trailer or fifth wheel, look for broken leaf springs and repair as necessary. Clear away leaves, dirt and debris from the roof. Wash the roof surface using mild soap and water. Wipe dust from solar panels. Once the roof area is dry, undertake a careful inspection of all sealants around the components. Replace caulking and sealant tape that appears cracked or missing. Fix everything that is broken, such as vent caps, air conditioner shrouds, antennas and wind sensors. Open outside access panels and vacuum up debris. Clear away corrosion from gas burners. Change oil and filters in the main engine, transmission and generator. Replace the fuel filter. Fill coolant reservoirs. Clean the charge air cooler and radiator. Wash the main engine compartment using soap and water. Examine the belts and hoses for signs of wear. On travel trailers and fifth wheels this is a good time to inspect and adjust brakes. Extend awnings. Lightly lubricate the arms using spray silicone through the pins, shoulder and wrist. Remove debris and carefully inspect the fabric for signs of tearing. Wash the awning with a high-pressure hose, but don’t get too close lest you risk damaging the fabric. Allow the awning to dry before retracting. Open the battery compartment. Clear away corrosion from battery posts with a solution of 50/50 baking soda and water using a wire brush. Carefully examine the rubber jacket of cables. A cut or frayed jacket should be replaced. Assure cable rings are making proper contact. Tighten connections and apply a coating of high temperature grease. Fill liquid lead acid batteries with distilled water. Disinfect the fresh water tank. Fill the tank with clear water and one cup of regular non-scented household bleach. Allow the solution to sit overnight and then flush the pipes with fresh water. Remove items from cargo bays and thoroughly clean the box. Examine outdoor furniture and rugs for wear and replace as necessary. Remember, excess cargo equals more weight on the RV. Leave behind anything you do not use.
After cleaning tires with a mild soap solution and clear water rinse, examine each tire for punctures, cuts, bulges or cracks. Replace missing valve caps or valve extensions. Look in between duals to assure the area is free of debris. Grease wheel bearings in travel trailers and fifth wheels. Inflate tires to their recommended pressures based on the weight of the RV when it is loaded for travel. Spruce up the paint. Black streaks are the result of dirt build-up mixed with moisture. A number of products are available to remove streaking. Always test a cleaner on a small area before full application. Some products may require multiple applications to remove stubborn stains. Rock chips and minor scratches can be repaired through touch up painting. Apply paint prior to waxing the RV exterior. Information on touch-up paint kits can be obtained through your selling dealer or by calling Monaco National Parts at 877.466.6226. Wash the exterior surface using a mild soap and water. Remove water from sidewalls and wheels to reduce spotting. A quality coating of wax will help to reduce black streaks and to maintain the quality appearance of the RV exterior surface. Wax the vehicle away from direct sunlight.©2008 Monaco Coach Corporation. All Rights Reserved. |
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