Mandalay 38A 2004, Owner'S Manual, Page: 17 / 94

TRAVEL PREPARATION
Like any vacation trip, pre-planning will pay big dividends. A checklist is often helpful.
In addition to routine trip preparations such as having newspaper delivery stopped and mail held at the post
office, there are now more vehicle-related preparations than there were with the old family car.
CHASSIS CHECKS
As with any vehicle, the RVer needs to check the automotive systems prior to a trip. They include:
Under Hood:
•
Fluid levels (oil, power steering, radiator, transmission, windshield washer, etc.)
•
Belts (tension and condition)
•
Battery (electrolyte level if applicable, connections, charge)
•
Hoses (clamps tight, condition, leakage)
•
Seals, gaskets (leaks)
Exterior:
•
Tire pressure/condition and lug nut torque
•
Headlights, running and safety marker lights including brake and turn signal and also any trailer light
connections
•
Security of any auxiliary equipment such as TV and CB antennae, awning, etc.
•
Windshield wiper blades
•
Generator compartment
•
Fresh and waste water connections/drains and supplies such as high pressure hose
•
Liquid Petroleum Gas compartment/tank
Under Vehicle:
•
Drive train condition, specifically leaks (U-joints, differential, transmission)
•
Brakes, including lines, pads/shoes, seals
•
Engine area for pan gasket or other leaks
•
Anything unusual hanging or tangled with road debris such as tree limbs
•
Tank condition (gas, fresh water, waste water)
Inside Driver’s Compartment:
•
Check operation of all systems, including: Wipers, windshield, horn, brakes, steering, transmission,
heater, defroster, air conditioner, and seat adjustment.
Also idle engine long enough to check cooling system and alternator operation. Be sure to turn on headlights
and climate controls to see if alternator handles the additional drain on the electrical system (should not show
discharge).
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