Modifying your driving style when going from behind the wheel of a passenger automobile to piloting an RV can be a vital tool in promoting fuel efficiency. A change in driving habits along with a few other tricks of the trade listed below will assist you in more easily managing the fuel requirements of your RV.

Keep cargo and passenger loads within the listed weight ratings as recommended by the vehicle manufacturer. Remember, the heavier the load - the more fuel consumed, so leave unnecessary items behind. If you are confident that the next destination provides full hook ups that include water supplies, consider reducing vehicle weight while driving by traveling with empty holding tanks. However, if there is the slightest doubt as to the specifics surrounding facilities at the next destination, err on the side of caution by traveling with well-equipped onboard water supplies, including a full hot water heater.

Ignoring the importance of proper tire pressure will insure a waste of fuel. Low tire air pressure will add a drag to the vehicle that can increase fuel requirements. Frequently monitor tire pressures, and add air pressure as needed. Improper front-end alignment can accelerate tire wear and put an additional drain on the RV fuel tank. Have all alignment issues promptly repaired.

Occasionally inspect the RV roof to insure A/C covers are properly secured. Immediately replace any missing A/C covers. Before driving, confirm that the television antenna is properly retracted. Driving with the antenna up, or with a missing A/C cover will create air drag and further fuel requirements.

Poorly maintained engine components require excess fuel supply. Follow the manufacturer recommendations for regular inspection of engine hoses and filters, and by performing routine oil changes. During engine maintenance procedures check fuel lines for signs of leaks that may be unknowingly draining the fuel supply. Following each fuel stop, confirm that the dash gauge is properly calibrated to reflect the correct reading.

Idling the RV promotes unnecessary waste of fuel. For best results, start the engine and monitor the oil pressure gauge for no longer than three minutes. Refrain from putting the engine under full throttle during the first couple of driving miles. Further reduce idle requirements by planning travel times and routes away from rush hour traffic conditions. Oftentimes, choosing an alternate route will add a few miles to the journey, but save on fuel requirements by eliminating frequent stop and go driving conditions.

Acceleration and speed are major contributing factors to RV fuel economy. Resist 'flooring it.' Make gradual starts and stops. Drive the vehicle in a steady and moderate manner. Frequent use of the cruise control feature during highway travel will help to promote consistent speed, and that means better fuel efficiency. Resist the urge to climb a long hill as quickly as possible by pushing the throttle as far down as it will go. Instead, obtain fuel economy by applying light throttle during long climbs to conserve on fuel in addition to protecting the engine from an overheat situation.

Don't hesitate to use the mode button located on the transmission shift selector control pad. Pushing the mode button will prompt the red LED light to illuminate as a signal to the driver that the mode button has been selected and the transmission is now in economy mode. During highway driving, when the cruise control is set between 55 and 65 miles per hour, engaging the transmission to economy mode should eliminate about 99% of the transmission downshifts from sixth to fifth gear when incurring a slight incline or overpass.

Fuel stations built to accommodate large vehicles are generally located on the outskirts of communities. It is best not to assume that all stations offer diesel fuel supplies. Directories are available that list locations of RV-friendly fuel stations nationwide, and can be obtained at most camping supply outlets. Plan ahead when refueling to avoid the risk of being caught in downtown rush hour traffic with the 'Low Fuel' light blinking on the dash.

Make sure you can adequately maneuver the RV comfortably in and out of a fuel station before entering. Pay particular attention to overhangs that could potentially damage the RV roof, and concrete posts or steel pumps that could collide with the front or rear cap. Know which side of the vehicle the fuel access is located, and position accordingly. Designate a set of shoes for the purpose of refueling only to prevent diesel and gas spills from tracking onto the interior carpet. Wear gloves when handling fuel nozzles to protect hands. Store shoes and gloves in an outside bay, or in the RV step well compartment.

Make plans to refuel the vehicle no later than 1/3 of a tank. Running the fuel tank any lower can cause sludge and debris at the bottom of the tank to enter the pick up tube and create potential blockage. In the event the fuel tank is inadvertently emptied, pull the vehicle safely off the road, on as level a spot as possible. Filters may need to be primed once fuel is added. Consult your vehicle owner's manual, or contact Technical Support.

Factor in the diesel generator, and if equipped, the Aqua-Hot system, when determining fuel consumption. Outside temperature will affect fuel mileage. The colder the air, the more fuel the engine requires.

Use caution when purchasing fuel additives that may actually only drive up the cost of fuel. Fuel additives may be necessary if the RV is likely to be stored for a period of six months or longer, but a regularly operated RV that receives routine supplies of fresh fuel along with scheduled fuel filter maintenance, will rarely require fuel additives to enhance engine performance.

Diesel model RV's should be stored with the fuel tank full to reduce the build up of condensation sludge within the fuel. Water in fuel can damage the system and should be quickly evacuated. Remove water from fuel using the Drain Filter located on certain model RVs, or by having the system serviced by a qualified technician.