83
2008 IMPERIAL
EXTERIOR & INTERIOR CARE — 3
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
fi
rst 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 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, Aqua-Hot motors, heat exchangers and
powered roof vents.
Winter Storage Checklist
Plumbing Lines -
Drain and protect.
(See
Winterizing - Section 6
)
Fresh Water Tank -
Drain.
Body -
Clean and wax. Oil locks and
hinges. Repair roof seams as needed.
Countertop and Cabinets -
Wash with
mild soap and water.
Curtains -
Remove and clean according
to care speci
fi
cations.
Windows -
Cover windows by pulling
blinds, closing shades or using a separate
cover such as a sheet.
Holding Tank -
Drain and rinse. Close
valves.
NOTE:
Add a small amount of antifreeze to
waste holding tanks to keep valves and
gaskets lubricated.
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
manufacturer’s 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
fi
lters. 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
Extensive freeze damage or other serious
deterioration can occur if the motorhome is
not properly winterized. If the motorhome is
properly and carefully prepared for storage,
removal from storage will not be dif
fi
cult. The
following checklist pertains to items or areas
that should be inspected when it is time to take
the motorhome out of storage and put back into
operation. If you have any questions regarding
storage or winterization, consult a quali
fi
ed
service technician.
Thoroughly
inspect
the outside of
motorhome. Look for animal nests in the
wheel wells or in other out of the way
places.
Remove all appliance
fl
ue vent covers,
ceiling vent covers and air conditioning
covers. Be sure the refrigerator openings
are free of debris, insect nests, webs, etc.
Open all doors and compartments.
Check for animal or insect intrusion,
water damage or other types of damage
which may have occurred.
