Unlike the used car trade, purchasing a previously owned RV can often be a good deal because of the low mileage and minimal use.  However, if you do become the second (or third) owner of a resold RV, there are a few things you should remember to do.

First and foremost, register your purchase with the manufacturer.  Technical bulletins and notices regarding the coach are sent directly to the last known owner on file.  Notifying the manufacturer of the vehicle transfer will also shift any remaining warranty coverage.  Inside the owner’s manual you will find a warranty transfer form to complete and submit.  If the RV is missing the vehicle operator’s manual, contact National Parts.

Replace the tires.  It is virtually impossible to determine how well the previous owner cared for this very important item.  Inaccurate air pressures, improper storage and rough roadways can all contribute to tire wear that is not easily detected through visual inspection.  Put new tires of identical size and brand as the original factory installed tires on all axles at the same time.

Inspect the batteries.  Like tires, battery life is also dependent on the maintenance schedule.  Remove corrosion from around the battery cases and cables.  Fill liquid lead acid battery cells with distilled water.  Fully charge the battery bank and then using a battery hydrometer, test each cell of liquid lead acid batteries.  Low electrolyte readings in any cell will drag down the rest of the battery bank.  Replace the battery bank all at one time.

Lubricate the chassis.  Refer to the vehicle operator’s manual for lubrication points and guidelines.  On average, four tubes of grease are required.  Use a good quality grease gun.  Keep record of the lubrication schedule in a maintenance logbook.

Give the electrical system a thorough going over.  Examine the shore cord connection.  Slide back the collar and look for frayed wiring or loose connections.  Inspect the shore cord adapters and discard any that show signs of discoloration.  If the RV is equipped with a transfer switch, remove the cover and tighten screws that may have loosened from road vibration.  Usually you will find two relays that run from shore power and the generator.  Inside the RV remove the 120 Volt A/C panel.  Check for discoloration and loose connections.  Double-check the ground bar as well.  Just one loose connection can cause electrical and safety problems.

Clean the filters in the roof air conditioning system.  Remove the A/C vent to access filters.  Wash the filters in mild soap and thoroughly rinse.  Allow the filters to dry before reinstalling them back into the ceiling vent.  While the filters are out, look over the connections to see if anything appears out of place.

Check wiring to the furnace, water heater and refrigerator.  Clean outside compartments to remove dust and debris.  Run the systems before heading off down the road to assure they are in working order.

Disinfect the fresh water holding tank as instructed in the vehicle owner’s manual.  Inspect the sewer hose and tighten clamps.  Replace the hose if it appears worn or damaged.