Archived Tech Tip: 03/31/06

Maintenance Checklist

The following general checklist of maintenance items is not all-inclusive. Your model RV may require additional regular maintenance practices. For more detailed information, consult the operator's manual. Start and drive the motor home a minimum of 20 miles each month. Operate the generator while driving down the road.

Chassis:

  1. Lubricate all chassis fittings.
  2. Change engine oil and filter.
  3. Change transmission oil and filter.
  4. Rear end oil change.
  5. Fuel filters changed.
  6. Inspect or change air filter.
  7. Replace hydraulic filter.
  8. Clean charge air cooler and radiator.
  9. Check engine coolant level.
  10. Check belts and hoses for wear or cracking. Remove dust and debris build up.
  11. Check tires pressure.
  12. Check for oil leaks (engine, hydraulic, coolant).
  13. Inspect and adjust brakes.
  14. Drain air tanks - front and rear.
  15. Replace air dryer filter.
Electrical System - Chassis and House:
  1. Regularly maintain both the chassis and house batteries. Inspect liquid lead acid battery cells and keep filled with distilled water to 1/8 inch below the vent tube. Do not overfill the battery. Frequently clean liquid lead acid and AGM battery cases to remove corrosion and inspect cables for tightness.
  2. Check all exterior lights - brake lights, turn signals, back-up camera, clearance lights, head lights (low and high beam).
  3. Inspect shore cord connections for tightness. Straighten the cord to uncoil kinks. Clean the cord to remove dust and debris. Burnt or discolored prongs may need to be replaced.

Equipment:

  1. Lube and clean entry steps. Inspect for worn parts.
  2. Remove bathroom and kitchen ceiling fan screens. Wash screens in mild soap and water. Rinse with clear water and thoroughly dry before reinstallation.
  3. Lube pocket door rollers two times per year.

Appliances:

  1. Clean the refrigerator interior box to wipe up spills. Go to the outside vent and remove insect nests, dirt and debris.
  2. Wash microwave filters to remove grease build up.
  3. Vacuum the remote temperature sensors for the wall thermostats.
  4. Wash roof A/C filters - there may be up to three of them in the motor home.
  5. Wipe clean furnace or Aqua-Hot. Inspect and change filters as needed.

Water System:

  1. Remove and clean all drain screens on faucets.
  2. Remove and clean screen on water pump.
  3. Remove and replace water filters.
  4. Check air pressure in the accumulator tank (if equipped).
  5. Check waste drain hoses for leaks and hose clamps for tightness.
  6. Lubricate the knife valves on the gray and black tank dump valves using a small amount of silicone.

Exterior Roof:

  1. Wash roof every other time you wash the sidewalls.
  2. Inspect roof sealant for cracks and replace as needed.
  3. Clean solar panel (if equipped).
  4. Open awnings and wash away dust and debris buildup.