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Interior & Exterior Care
SECTION FOUR
Inspect the motorhome:
• Perform a full interior inspection for water leaks
every two weeks while the motorhome is in storage .
Check inside all cabinets for signs of dampness or
leaks . Inspect the ceiling areas around roof vents or
other roof openings .
• Leave cabinet doors and drawers open to facilitate
air movement behind those areas .
• Inspect and clean the roof and sidewall seams
at least twice a year . Inspect for exterior sealant
gaps of all roof seams, vents, skylights, roof air
conditioners and windows .
Fuel:
Storing the motorhome with a full tank of fuel will
minimize moisture condensing at the top of the tank .
Diesel fuel is an organic material that can develop
microbial growth (black algae) . Fuel stabilizers may
be added to control microbe growth and degradation
of the fuel . Consult the engine manufacturer’s owner’s
manual or a distributor for further detailed information
on fuel stabilizers and additives .
Brakes:
Brakes suffer from non-use during periods of storage .
The bare metal machined surfaces of brake drums or
rotors have only a light coating of dust from the brake
lining friction material . The brake dust is the only thing
protecting the bare metal surfaces from rusting . Only
regular brake applications dry the moisture preventing
rust on brake drum or rotor surfaces . During periods
of non-use, oxygen and moisture oxidize the machined
surfaces . Only occasional use keeps these surfaces from
oxidizing . Rusty brake drum or rotor surfaces permeate
the brake lining upon the first few applications, reducing
the friction action of the linings .
Engine:
Internal combustion engines need to be “exercised”
on a regular basis to ensure an adequate supply of
lubricating oil coats the cylinder walls and piston rings .
Valve and valve seat surfaces also suffer from non-use .
Some valves will remain open depending at which part
of the combustion cycle the engine has stopped .
The heat and cold of the day allows moisture to
accumulate through the exhaust system . Start all
engines, including the generator, at least twice a month .
Electric Motors:
Electric motors in the motorhome should be
occasionally operated to help lubricate and keep
surfaces freely rotating . These items include the roof
air conditioners, dash fans, dash blower motor, furnace
and powered roof vents .
WINTER STORAGE CHECKLIST
•
Plumbing
Lines
:
Drain
and
protect .
(See Winterizing — Section 6 .)
•
Fresh Water Tank:
Drain .
•
Body:
Clean and wax . Reseal the roof as needed .
•
Countertop and Cabinets:
Wash with mild soap
and water .
•
Curtains:
Remove and clean according to care
specifications .
•
Windows:
To protect interior fabric from fading,
cover windows by pulling blinds . For Day/Night
shades cover with a separate cover such as a sheet
or a cut out template . Day/Night shades hold their
shape better if stored in the up position .
•
Holding Tank:
Drain and rinse . Close valves .
•
Drain Traps:
Pour RV antifreeze down all drains .
•
Refrigerator:
Clean and leave both doors propped
open . Cover exterior panels and roof vents . If
equipped with an icemaker, drain icemaker and
icemaker tray . See the refrigerator OEM manual for
more detail .
•
Batteries:
Add distilled water and recharge if
needed . If necessary, disconnect the cables,
remove the batteries and store them in a cool dry
place . Check and recharge as needed .
•
Air Conditioner:
Remove the air filters . Clean or
replace .
•
Roof:
Keep clear of snow accumulation or damage
may occur .
•
Interior/Exterior:
Storing under cover or indoors
helps extend interior and exterior life .
•
Fuel Tank:
Diesel fuel tank should be full of fuel .
REMOVAL FROM STORAGE
LUBE:
Add a small amount of RV antifreeze to waste
holding tanks to keep valves and gaskets lubricated .
Summary of Contents for Class A Gas 2020
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