FOUR WINDS INTERNATIONAL
CARE AND MAINTENANCE
96
STORAGE PREPARATION
When storing the motor home for the winter (or other extreme conditions), certain precautions need to be made
to protect it until you open it again for use. Make sure to talk with your local dealer concerning any special
requirements for storage in your particular geographic area. The following steps are general, and your dealer
can help you choose those that are most appropriate for your needs.
1. Make sure to park the motor home on a level surface.
2. Make sure to winterize the chassis as outlined in the chassis owner’s manual, and also the
120V generator (If so equipped) as outlined in the generator owner’s manual.
3. Clean the motor home thoroughly, both inside and out, as previously outlined including the
refrigerator.
4. Make sure all electrical switches and appliances are turned off.
5. Close all the drapes and curtains, and protect the curtains from sun fading by placing foil, or
paper between the windows and the screens.
6. Make sure all windows, doors, and vents are closed securely. Cover exterior vents on
appliances to prevent moisture and insects from entering during storage.
7. Check the interior of the motor home periodically while in storage to make sure leaks have
not developed, or condensation formed that can cause damage to interior components.
Condensation can most readily be observed as moisture accumulation on windows and
mirrors. To reduce condensation, make sure to air the motor home out occasionally during
storage.
8. Be sure that both the chassis and auxiliary batteries have the proper electrolyte level
and that they are fully charged (12.7 Volts). A discharged battery will freeze and crack the
case, ruining the battery. In storage, a battery will lose charge gradually over a 30 to 45
day period, even when disconnected by use of the battery disconnect switch. We recommend
that at least monthly the batteries be checked for charge. If the charge is 80% (12.5 Volts) or
less, it must be recharged.
• You may wish to remove the batteries from the motor home and store them in
a heated area. However, even when warm, the battery charge level must still be
maintained, a warm battery accepts charge much more readily however, than a
cold one.
• Make sure to follow all precautions associated with battery care and maintenance
outlined in the electrical section of this manual.
9. Store with as much fuel as possible in the fuel tank to limit condensation buildup.
10. Check engine coolant, making sure antifreeze is sufficient for local temperature extremes.
11. Make sure the tires are inflated to correct pressures.
12. Store the windshield wiper arms and blades inside the motor home.
13. Let the engine run for a period of time until it is warm. Change the oil and oil filter.
14. Run the air conditioner during this final engine warm up to make sure the compressor seal is
lubricated.
15. If snow accumulates on the motor home, try to remove it as often as you can.
16. A primary concern when winterizing the motor home is to make sure the water systems are
protected against damage caused by freezing. Follow the water system winterizing procedure
outlined in the Water and Drainage section of this manual (check the Index for location).
Note:
Be sure to read the rest of this manual, and follow any additional information on
storage, cleaning, and winterizing procedures.
MOLD
Molds are microscopic organisms that naturally occur in virtually every environment, indoors and out. Outdoors,
mold growth is important in the decomposition of plants. Indoors, mold growth is unfavorable. Left unchecked,
molds break down natural materials, such as wood products and fabric. Knowing the potential risks is important
for an owner to protect their investment.
