Mandalay 38A 2004, Owner'S Manual

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STORAGE PREPARATION
When storing the recreational vehicle 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 recreational vehicle on a level surface.
2. Make sure to winterize the chassis as outlined in the chassis owner’s manual, and also the 110V
generator (if so equipped) as outlined in the generator’s owner’s manual.
3. Clean the recreational vehicle 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 recreational vehicle 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 recreational vehicle out occasionally during storage.
8. Be sure that both the chassis and coach batteries have the proper electrolyte level and that they are
fully charged (specific gravity of 1.260). 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% (specific gravity of 1.235) or less, it must be
recharged.
You may wish to remove the batteries from the recreational vehicle 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 motorhome.
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 recreational vehicle, try to remove it as often as you can.
16. A primary concern when winterizing the recreational vehicle 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).
Be sure to read the rest of this manual, and follow any additional information on storage, cleaning and
winterizing procedures.
4-8 Mandalay