The joys of owning a marine RV are worth the time and effort to keep it in top shape. You may maximize the value of your investment and lengthen its longevity by performing a few straightforward maintenance tasks.
Water leaks are a common problem for many RVs, especially if it is stored for an extended time. Regular inspections of seals and seams around roof vents, skylights, and air conditioner units can catch leaks early before they cause costly damage to ceiling materials.
Change the Oil
Changing the oil in your marine RV is essential in keeping your engine running smoothly and efficiently. Typically, owner’s manuals recommend changing the oil every 50 to 100 operating hours.
However, if your vehicle’s oil is dirty or has been sitting idle for a long time, it may not be safe to change it at these intervals. Moisture also accumulates in engines that sit idle and can damage the engine.
When you’re ready to change the oil, start the motor and let it warm to the operating temperature. It will thin out the oil and make it easier to siphon it through a dipstick tube.
Check the Tires
By carrying out a few simple marine RV maintenance procedures, you may increase the return on your investment and the lifespan of your marine RV. It involves regularly inspecting them for cracking, cuts, and other damage that could lead to tire failure and an accident.
You can do this yourself using a few simple tools. The first is a tire pressure gauge.
Check the pressure in each tire to ensure it is at the proper PSI (pounds per square inch). A portable air compressor can also be handy for filling up your tires.
Next, look at the numbers and other indicators on the sidewall of your tires. These will help you identify the right size for your vehicle and driving needs.
There’s also a date code on the sidewall, indicating the factory the manufacturer built it in and the week and year it was manufactured. In addition, some tires have a load limit. It is due to the limited capacity of a tire’s vulcanized rubber donut to support weight before going “boom.”
Check the Battery
If you’re ready to head out for a long trip, you need dependable power to get the job done. Batteries give your RV power to run the engine, lights, and accessories.
If your battery doesn’t charge, you may need to replace it. Before you start fiddling with it, ensure the rest of your electrical system works correctly.
The first step is to check your battery’s voltage with a volt meter. You can borrow a volt meter from your local auto parts store if you don’t have one.
A battery’s voltage should be around 12.6 volts when fully charged. It should drop slightly when well discharged but remains close to that level.
Clean the Exterior
RVs must be cleaned often to protect them from dirt, grime, and residues from cars and boats. These can eat away at your vehicle’s paint and cause damage.
Fortunately, a few products can help you clean your RV and make it look new again. Washing your RV regularly will also help protect the gel coat from fading and prevent losing value.
You can clean your RV yourself with an excellent car-washing soap and water or a commercially-available cleaner. You can also use a pressure sprayer to wash your RV.
You can also use a non-acidic, non-caustic cleaner to safely brighten and rejuvenate your RV. This all-purpose cleaner is safe for fiberglass, gel coats, and painted surfaces. It is ammonia-free and alcohol-based, making it easy to use on tinted windows. This product removes film from windshields, headlights, and glass without leaving streaks or foam.
