The following article is by Jason Mueller of A1AutoTransport.com
Spring has finally started to peak its head out from the cold winter, and now is the perfect time to start thinking about where you want to take your RV when its time to travel. Before you pack your bags and hit the road for a cross-country trip, however, you need to take time to get your RV ready to go. Even if you use your RV year-round, taking time for necessary maintenance and paying attention to details is an important step to staying on the road. Regular inspections will help keep your RV in good condition and can help prolong the years you will have it to enjoy. The best way to be prepared is with an RV checklist.
Here are the most important steps to take to ensure your next road trip is just as safe as it is fun!
Outside RV Checklist
It’s important to do a complete walk-around inspection of your RV to see if there are any cracks or gaps in the RV or around the windows or doors. Even a tiny crack around a window seal can cause severe water damage. Be sure to inspect the moldings as well as the doors and exterior storage areas for signs of cracking or other damage.
If you have an awning, be sure to roll it all the way out to see if it has tears or any mold or mildew. If you see rips or tears, take the time to fix it before you travel.
Another thing and one of the most important to check is going to be your tires. If you have not been using the RV for a long period of time, check for signs of dry rot or cracks in the rubber. If you see something that does not look right, have a tire pro inspect the tires to ensure they are safe for travel. Also, check the wheels to make sure the rims are good.
Prior to Departure Outside RV Checklist:
- Windows
- Doors
- Roof
- Awning
- Tires and Wheels
- Moldings
- Shut Off Propane Tanks
- Remove Wheel Blocks
- Secure Steps
- Secure Vent Flaps
- Retract Awning
- Check Lights
- Check Tire Pressure
Check Underneath
It’s easy to see when something needs to be taken care of when you look at the outside of your trailer, but people often forget about the underside of their trailer when they inspect before a trip. It’s a good idea to check underneath to make sure you don’t have loose bolts and to make sure there is nothing rusted or broken.
Prior to Departure Underneath Checklist:
- Check Plumbing Lines
- Black Water Tank
- Gray Water Tank
- Fresh Water Tank
- Chassis
- Axle
Inside the Trailer
Has your trailer been parked and sealed up all winter long? If so, you need to take time to open the windows and doors, clean everything and get some fresh air circulating before you think about traveling.
Check the roof for signs of leaks and if you see any, stay on top of things and get it repaired quickly. Water damage can destroy a trailer.
Check the electrical inside to make sure it is working properly. This means you need to check switches as well as every outlet in the trailer to ensure they are in proper working order. If you plan on working during your travels and have a job that requires internet access, you need to make sure your Wi-Fi works well so you can access the internet.
Prior to Departure Interior Checklist:
- Shut Off Water Heater
- Take Trash Out
- Secure Food in Fridge
- Secure Refrigerator Door
- Close Curtains
- Close/Secure Cupboards
- Shut Water Pump Off
- Clean Interior
- Windshield (If applicable)
- Slide Antenna Down or Remove Until Parked
- Empty Sink
- Remove Items from Counter
- Secure Everything Inside
It is also a good idea to walk around the trailer to make sure there is nothing blocking the way that could cause damage when you start to drive out. This includes tree limbs, screws or nails or other items that can cause damage. You should also make sure the power, water tanks and sewage work well before taking off.
Before heading out, you need to do a complete walk-through and make sure everything is secure, the gas and power are disconnected, and everything is safely in its place, so it will not get damaged when you take off.
Careful inspection of your trailer before you take off this year will help ensure you have happy and safe travels and don’t run into any issues during your vacation time.
