SECTION 11
MAINTENANCE/STORAGE
11-8
Clean and Prep Coach for Storage
1. Turn off the LP gas tank
2. Turn the furnace thermostat switch OFF.
3. Remove all foods and items that may cause
odors from cabinets and refrigerator.
4. Clean and defrost the refrigerator. Prop the
door open slightly to allow any odors to
dissipate. Place an open box of baking soda
inside the refrigerator to help absorb odors.
5.
Fully charge the batteries. Batteries must
have at least 80% charge to survive
freezing temperatures and long period of
non-use.
We recommend that you connect a
battery charger or plug in the shoreline once a
month during long-term storage periods to
maintain battery charge and to avoid
sulfating. If connecting a charger directly to
batteries, turn the Aux. Battery switch off to
avoid electrical arcing when attaching and
detaching charge clamps.
NOTE: We do not recommend leaving the shore-
line plugged in continuously during stor-
age periods because the batteries can
lose electrolytic fluids and become dam-
aged from continuous charging without
periodic use. We recommend following
regular battery inspection and mainte-
nance especially in cold weather. See
“Battery Storage and Maintenance”.
6. After charging batteries, turn the Aux Battery
Switch off to disconnect the batteries and
avoid parasitic* drain.
* Parasitic battery drain is the gradual
drain by items connected directly to bat-
tery power such as clocks, radio memory
and the engine computer.
7. Have the vehicle chassis completely serviced
and lubricated. Be sure radiator antifreeze
protection level is sufficient for the lowest
anticipated temperatures.
8. Wash and wax the coach.
9. Inspect all seams and seals around doors,
windows, vents, and any other joints. Replace
or repair any that are damaged. Sealing
materials and compounds can be purchased
from your dealer. Badly damaged weather
seals may need to be replaced by your dealer.
10. Close all windows and roof vents. Protect all
appliance vent openings from contamination
by animals or insects (e.g. bird nest, wasp
nests, etc.)
11. Lubricate all door hinges and locks.
12. Clean the interior of the coach. Dirt and stains
are more easily removed when fresh.
When storing your vehicle through the winter,
or in cold climates, extra preparations need to be
made to protect systems that can be damaged by
freezing temperatures. See “Winterizing” in
Plumbing Section.
Removal From Storage
1. Completely air out the motor home.
2. Have the entire LP gas system checked for
leaks.
3. Check window operation.
4. Check cabinet and door hinges. Lubricate
with penetrating oil, if necessary.
5. Close all faucets and drain valves that are
open.
6. Add a few gallons of water to the fresh water
tank and check for leaks especially at fittings.
Sanitize the water system as outlined under
“Disinfecting the Fresh Water System” in
Plumbing Section.
7. Check operation of all faucets to be sure
faucet washers have not hardened during
storage.
8. Check the toilet for proper operation.
9. Add water to the holding tank using the toilet
flush pedal. Check to be sure dump valve seals
tightly.
10. Check around all appliances for obstructions
and ensure that all vent openings are clear.
11. Start refrigerator and check for proper
cooling.
12. Clean paneling and counter surfaces.
13. Replace batteries if necessary and check out
electrical system to make sure all lights and
electrical components operate.