Holiday Trip 2012, Owner'S Manual

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2012 Trip
Outdoor Storage Area:
The interior should be heated to help
prevent mold and mildew growth.
Moisture removing desiccate filter
systems are available from hardware
and RV supply stores. Place the filter
system inside the motorhome to reduce
interior moisture condensation or
humidity.
Proper winterization of the fresh water
system will prevent potential damage
in extreme cold.
Ultraviolet radiation affects soft goods
and rubber products such as privacy
curtains, window shades and tires.
These items should be protected. Store
Day/Night Shades in the Up position.
Cardboard templates can be made for
the windows to protect the interior
from exposure to direct sunlight.
Tire covers are available to protect the
sidewall of the tires from cracking.
Make sure tires in storage contain the
correct air pressure to prevent damaged
caused by underinflation.
Regularly wash the exterior to help
control moss accumulation. Waxing the
motorhome twice a year will augment
these substances.
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.
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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 fuel
tank will minimize moisture condensing at
the top of the tank. Diesel fuel is an organic
material which will develop a microbe growth
(black slime). Fuel stabilizers may be added
to control microbe growth and degrading 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.
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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, furnance 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 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.
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