75
CHAPTER 6
MECHANICAL MAINTENANCE
Your recreational vehicle is designed to be as maintenance free as
possible. However, all movable vehicles require some care to reduce the
possibility of unwanted breakdowns during travel. Normal maintenance
is required to maintain warranty coverage, reduce wear, and prolong the
life of you coach.
Note: Some areas in this chapter may not be applicable to your coach.
AXLE / BRAKE SYSTEM
The wheel bearing in your coach are pre-greased at the point of assembly.
At six months or 6,000 miles of use, inspect the bearings for lubrication
and wear. Repack bearing as needed, at least once per year. To protect
against winter’s moisture, we suggest an inspection and lubrication of
bearings at the end of each camping season. Always replace seals when
repacking bearings.
Use a high quality wheel bearing grease available at automotive part
stores. Fibrous or non-fibrous is not important.
Should bearing or cone (race) become damaged or worn, both must be
replaced together. Over packing the hub results in grease seeping out of
the dust cap and wheel seal.
BRAKES – 10 OR 12 INCH
When a coach’s brake system is new, the brake shoes and drum are not
completely meshed together. The first adjustment should occur at 200 to
1,000 miles, or when brakes have been engaged 100 times – referred to
as “burnishing.” After initial adjustment, brakes should be readjusted
every 3,000 miles. Under adjustment can cause poor braking and the
adjuster wheel to fall apart. Use a qualified technician to perform this
maintenance procedure.
TIRES
Inspect and test air pressure no less than once per week, perhaps daily
during travel time. Correct PSI air pressure is listed on each tire as per
rating. Testing must be performed when tires are cold before beginning
to travel.
