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Author: Amber

  • Tech Tip: RV Furnace Maintenance

    Tech Tip: RV Furnace Maintenance

    RV owners — especially those who embrace winter travel — should be proactive in preparing the forced-air heating system when the thermometer dips. Know how with these tips from FMCA and the “RV Doctor” Gary Bunzer.

    About RV Furnaces

    An RV forced-air furnace is a sealed combustion system, so it is relatively easy for owners to perform a few maintenance procedures to ensure that warm air will circulate when needed. This is not to say the need for professional attention is eliminated altogether. As with any propane-burning appliance, it is still vital the delivery line pressure be measured and adjusted, the regulator be tested, and a deeper cleaning be performed periodically. Also, it is imperative the complete propane piping system be tested for leaks at least once per camping season.

    There are, however, a few simple steps all RV owners can follow to avoid shop labor costs. I’ve always maintained the four crucial areas regarding the RV forced-air furnace are as follows:

    • Cleanliness of the furnace
    • Proper routing of the ductwork
    • Return airflow
    • DC voltage supply

    All RVers should carry a decent digital multimeter (DMM), a few hand tools, and standard cleaning supplies so these four areas can be addressed before the onslaught of winter.

    Furnace Cleanliness

    • Vacuum and wipe down all portions of the furnace you can easily access. Simply keeping the unit free of accumulated dust and dirt will help ensure proper operation.
    • Vacuum in and around all areas of the furnace compartment, including the floor ducts. In some cases, it may be possible to remove a front panel to gain access to the interior portions of the furnace enclosure. In other cases, access may be gained through a panel from outside the RV. Use a soft, damp cloth to wipe down all metal components.
    • Take time to fully inspect the intake and exhaust vents on the exterior of the motorhome. The fireside stories you’ve heard of wasps, spiders, mud daubers, and birds possibly building a nest inside that intake/exhaust assembly are true. Obstructions in the intake tube will cause an overly rich mixture at the burner, resulting in incomplete combustion. Obstructions in the exhaust tube can be a fire hazard. Neither situation is good for you, the furnace, or the motorhome.

    Ductwork Routing

    Some RVs have flexible runs of ducting; others are built with rigid in-floor ductwork. Most flex ducts are routed above the floor, inside cabinets, under sofas, etc.

    Inspect the routing of every run, since they’re usually easily accessible. Look for extended runs and collapsed or pinched ducts. Longer-than-necessary branch ducts sometimes can be shortened to eliminate heat buildup. Excessive heat can cause the furnace to short cycle. Try to vacuum or wipe away dirt or dust inside each duct as far as you can reach.

    Inspect all adjustable heat outlet registers, making sure most of them are fully open. The number of ducts routed throughout the RV is determined by the BTU rating of the furnace. In order for the furnace to operate properly, a certain number of ducts must be connected to its manifold. If too many of those ducts are closed (or not enough ducts are installed), the chance of a short-cycling sequence increases.

    Return Airflow

    For proper operation, all forced-air furnaces require a specific amount of fresh air be returned to the furnace enclosure. This is accomplished through a grille or a set of louvers mounted somewhere within the RV’s living space. Do not block or modify this grille in any manner. Be sure the return grille and the area immediately behind it are free and clear of obstacles.

    DC Voltage Supply

    The proper amount of DC voltage is crucial to the safe and efficient operation of the forced-air furnace.

    Most modern furnaces operate at a voltage input between 10.5 and 13.5 volts DC. Of course, 10.5 volts is basically a dead battery (100 percent depth of discharge), so more than likely, the conscientious RVer will keep the battery bank at a higher level of charge. I stress the 50 percent rule; never discharge to below 50 percent of capacity, unless necessary. But it’s not uncommon for a somewhat-depleted battery to provide less-than-sufficient voltage, especially during a dry camping endeavor. Low voltage causes the blower wheel to spin slower, perhaps too slow to properly close the sail switch. The sail switch initiates the heating cycle by powering the circuit board, which in turn opens the gas valve and creates the spark that ignites the main burner.

    On the flip side, too-high voltage coming into the furnace also can cause problems. Never power the furnace directly from a battery-charging device, converter, or off-line power supply. The incoming voltage must be “filtered” somewhat. This is accomplished by connecting the furnace to a battery circuit within the RV. Maintaining a clean, properly charged battery bank is essential for optimum operation of the furnace.

    Summary

    Serious and seasoned RV owners understand the importance of proper preventive maintenance. Following these few quick and easy procedures will give your heating system an advantage in the cooler months.

    FMCA RV Club brings you this monthly tech tip to Enhance Your RV Lifestyle. FMCA delivers RV know-how to its members. Join today for just $50 — a savings of $10 just for RV Trader readers. Learn more at https://join.fmca.com/trader18.

    An important safety note: RV owners should never remove any component on the sealed system that is held in place with a gasket. Breaking the seal on any gasket potentially can cause a dangerous carbon monoxide leak.

    This information is for educational purposes. FMCA shall not be responsible nor retain liability for RVer’s use of the provided information. Prior to making any RV service decision, you are advised to consult with an RV professional.

  • Gifts for the Whole Family

    Gifts for the Whole Family

    Where has the year gone? I swear it seems like we had less time between the holidays this year- and my long shopping list proves it. Just in case you’re in the same boat, we’ve put together a wide variety of gifts that any RVer – or future RVer – would love. And since we know that thinking of the perfect present is half the battle – we hope this takes some of that stress off your plate.
     

    For the Kids

    Let’s be honest, we all want more RVers in our lives – so why not start them out young? Land of Nod has the cutest stuff for little ones to help them dream about RVing from the very beginning.

     

    For the Grill Master

    We all have to eat while we’re out on the road – so for those of us who prefer to grill these products from REI will make sure that you’re still getting a gourmet meal.

    For the Glamper

    Now tent campers may say that RVing is already a form of glamping – but what do they know? For the glamorous among us – these items will definitely spruce up any camp site – taking it to new, over the top levels.

    For the Hiker

    We know the weather’s a bit chilly out these days (cough – understatement – cough) – but these things will help get you ready for warmer weather and great days spent out of the trail.
    The holidays are definitely upon us – so we hope this list inspires you, while helping you relax and focus on spending time with your loved ones.
  • In Case You Missed It: November RV News

    In Case You Missed It: November RV News

    It’s hard to believe it’s almost Thanksgiving, but the despite the holiday season, RV news hasn’t slowed down. As always, we are here to keep you informed with the latest RV news you need to know this month. Check out this month’s top headlines below.

    SylvanSport Debuting Platinum GO Camper – The North Carolina based company, SylvanSport is rolling out a VERY limited edition of Platinum GO models – 15 to be exact. These Platinum GO models will feature a two-tone silver and gray tent package – changing it up from their original silver and green colors. The platinum theme will also continue throughout the inside of the unit with four gray self-inflating mattresses. The storage lid comes in charcoal black and tires are mounted on custom blackout anodized aluminum wheels. The unit will go for $9,995 – get them while they’re hot! Read More.

    Southern California Shuts Down Several State Parks Due to Fires – In more serious news, several California national parks have been closed due to the recent wildfires happening across the state. Park officials say all employees have been accounted for, but some of the parks have sustained serious damage due to the fires. We encourage you to visit the parks’ websites if you are planning to visit to make sure they are safe from these devastating fires. Read More.

    Winnebago Comes Out With Camper Van – Winnebago has surprised the RV community with the introduction of its new Revel 4×4 camper van. The manufacturer is typically known for their larger models, so the compact model is an exciting change. The 4×4 camper van is a Mercedes Benz Sprinter-based rig, powered by a 188-horsepower, 3.0-liter, six-cylinder turbo diesel engine, and made for rugged outdoor sport and camping trips. This new model is aimed at expanding the market to reach a younger, sports and adventure-oriented crowd. You’ll want to see this unit for yourself. Read More.

    Bowlus Road Chief Adds New Model – When you think aluminum trailer, Airstream comes to mind, but there’s a new brand on the market – the Bowlus Road Chief. They’ve recently come out with a new model, Road Chief 26, that combines 30s style with modern amenities. The Road Chief 26 can now sleep 4 campers thanks to an extra two feet of length. The model also houses a spacious kitchen and a separate toilet and shower rooms – no wet baths here. This model will cost ya though – it comes in at $185,000, but we think all of the amenities and style are well worth the price. Read More.

    Lots of new models this month! We’re always happy to fill you in with the latest RV happenings. Let us know what your favorite story was in the comments below and stay tuned for next month’s edition of “In Case You Missed It”.

  • Why Choose a Class C Motorhome? (And What to Look for When You Do)

    Why Choose a Class C Motorhome? (And What to Look for When You Do)

    Mention that you’re looking at a motorhome and most non-RVers think of a Class A — the bus-style coach built on a specially designed commercial chassis.

    Yet the reality is that the majority of motorhomes sold every year are Class C’s, which are built on an automotive van or truck frame, with the motorhome body appended to the original cab.

    According to Niles Whitehouse, Product Manager at Winnebago, there are some very good reasons these motorhomes are so popular.

    Class C Advantages

    “For one thing, many people are more comfortable driving a Class C coach, because the experience is similar to driving a large pickup. In addition, Class C coaches are typically more economical to buy and to operate, as they tend to be more fuel-efficient.

    “And because they’re smaller than a Class A, they’re easier to maneuver in campgrounds and can go some places you might not want to tackle in a Class A motorhome,” Whitehouse noted.

    When it comes to floorplans, modern Class C’s make the most of available space. Most have a sleeping space over the cab; that bed, coupled with a bed in the rear, plus a sofa or dinette that converts to another bed, means that a Class C coach will often have more sleeping capacity than a typical Class A, so it’s no wonder Class C’s are popular with families.

    Many C’s have slideouts that add to the living space. For example, Winnebago’s Outlook 27D floorplan has two slideouts, allowing Winnebago to put both a walkaround queen bed and a roomy bathroom in a 28’8″ long coach.

     

    A New Approach
     
    Outlook Exterior

    The Outlook, introduced last year and debuting dynamic new exterior graphics this year, represents a new approach for Winnebago. “Our ‘voice of the customer’ research told us what most people wanted in a C, and we pretty much took everything on that wish list and made it standard. That really simplified production for us, and allowed us to bring the Outlook in at a lower price point,” Whitehouse explained.

    Outlook Interior

    Each of the five Outlook floorplans (which range in length from 24’2″ to 31’10”) features a full galley, overhead bed, convertible dinette, and a long list of standard amenities

    “They’re fully equipped, right out the door,” said Whitehouse.

    Finding the Right “C”

    When it comes to choosing the right Class C for your family, choosing the floorplan is important — but so is the build quality.

    Looking at things like fit and finish can tell you a lot. Do the drawers glide smoothly? Do the doors close solidly? Is that bead of caulk being used to hide sloppy workmanship?

    Also, consider the quality of the ‘support systems’ — things like the plumbing and electrical systems. Is the generator the right size for the coach? How about the holding tanks? Does it include or is it pre-wired for solar power?

    Finally, consider the things you can’t see: how solid is the framework around the coach? How solid is the warranty? And how solid is the company that’s standing behind the warranty?

    The answers to those questions will help you find the perfect Class C motorhome. Happy hunting!

    Learn more about the Winnebago Outlook here.
  • FMCA Tech Tip: Should I Perform Preventive Maintenance On My RV?

    FMCA Tech Tip: Should I Perform Preventive Maintenance On My RV?

    There’s a choice every RV owner must face – preventive maintenance or crisis repairs. There is no third option. To help cut costs, many RVers attempt to perform preventive maintenance on their RVs themselves.

    Know your options with these tips from FMCA and the “RV Doctor” Gary Bunzer.
     
    $$$ 

    Consider this: A typical RV with a generator, two roof air conditioners, and a slide-out or two has a minimum of 18 to 22 retail hours of mandated maintenance that needs to be performed each and every year! At an average retail labor rate of $120 per hour, that’s more than $2,600 spent per year just trying to avoid a major problem.

    Alas, it’s important to note that not all components on your RV will automatically self-destruct if these hours of maintenance are not performed, but it is highly recommended. If systems are maintained and checked periodically, you will gain additional life from these products.

    DIY Preventive Maintenance


    There are several seasonal maintenance tasks that you may want to consider doing yourself to cut costs.

    Some of these DIY maintenance tasks include:

    Is there a task that definitely requires a trip to the service center? Read this before scheduling your appointment.

    A little time and effort now can prevent major expenses down the road. Happy RVing!
    FMCA RV Club brings you this monthly tech tip to Enhance Your RV Lifestyle. FMCA delivers RV know-how to its members. Join today for just $50 — a savings of $10 just for RV Trader readers. Learn more at https://join.fmca.com/trader18.
    This information is for educational purposes. FMCA shall not be responsible nor retain liability for RVer’s use of the provided information. Prior to making any RV service decision, you are advised to consult with an RV professional.
  • RVillage Helps Bring RVers Together

    RVillage Helps Bring RVers Together

    RVillage App

    Buying an RV is a huge, exciting purchase that gives buyers the opportunity to take their home on the road while experiencing the world in a whole new way. But sometimes the road can get lonely, and it’s often difficult to meet people while traveling – and that’s where RVillage comes in. RVillage is a free social network platform specifically designed to help RVers connect with one another while traveling. Founded in 2015 by Curtis Coleman, RVillage has continued to grow with more than 100,000 users currently and a new member joining roughly every 3 to 5 minutes!

    RVIllage Founder, Curtis Coleman

    Since the site was built for RVers by RVers, it’s easy to set your location through the site so you can immediately see other RVers who are close by, communicate with them, and meet up with them along your route. Another amazing feature RVillage offers members is the opportunity to join one of their 3,000+ crowdsourced groups on their site. These groups range from RVers who are into boondocking, full-timers, LGBT RVers, RVers who like crafting, motorcycling, hobby-related groups – the list goes on and on. There’s a group for everyone on RVillage, and if you don’t find one that fits your needs, you have the option to create your own. RVillage is truly what you make it, and the platform is an excellent way to connect with RVers from across the country and world.

    RVillage Explore Map – Current Location

    You might be wondering, is RVillage just for people who own RVs? No! RVillage is a place for RV owners, enthusiasts, and dreamers. The site is a great place to conduct research and ask other RVers questions. After all, the best place to get information is from each other, so if you’re in the market to buy an RV, RVillage has thousands of people on their site that know the process and can help you along your own buying journey.

    When you sign up to join RVillage you’ll immediately receive access to all of the 3,000+ crowdsourced groups mentioned above and you can start connecting with nearby RVers right away. We know safety is a huge concern when joining new platforms, but RVillage takes that stress away because they are committed to keeping your information safe and private on their site. In fact, there is no personally identifiable information required to sign up other than a username and an email address – it’s so easy.

    RVillage – Explore Map Route

    For more information or to join the “RVillagers”, as they like to call themselves, visit: RVillage.com. Once you get familiar with the RVillage website, you can then download the RVillage APP for iOS or Android as it will make more sense for you and you can begin making those important connections along your way.

  • Tech Tip: Choosing the Best RV Exterior Care Products

    Tech Tip: Choosing the Best RV Exterior Care Products

    Did you catch our article last month about maintaining your RV’s exterior? FMCA and the “RV Doctor” Gary Bunzer are here to help you find the perfect products for your RV.

    Five Conditions That Affect Product Performance

    Did that polish work great for you, living in a colder climate, but not so great for your friend who lives on the beach? Simply put, some exterior products simply work better in different conditions.

    There are five factors to consider when choosing a product to maintain your RV’s exterior:

    Climate

    Variations in temperature, relative humidity, rainfall, and even the proximity of the sun can have an effect on how well a certain product will perform.

    Location

    Whether the RV spends an abundance of time parked in an industrial area, a wilderness area, the city, or out in the country can have a significant impact.

    Environment

    Air quality, in particular, can have an impact. How much smog or airborne pollutants are present in the air?

    Age of the RV

    Certainly, the older the RV, the more chance of it sustaining a deeper level of oxidation.

    Amount of effort exerted during the cleaning process

    The elbow grease you employ when using a particular product may be directly proportional to your success.

    Five Steps to Choose the Perfect Product for Your RV

    Know Your Material 

    First of all, be sure you know the type of material you are attempting to protect or restore. Some products, when applied to an incompatible surface, may actually cause more damage than any pre-existing condition. For instance, never use petroleum products or wax on vinyl stripes or design elements.

    Read the Label

    Second, read the label carefully and follow the directions explicitly before applying the product. Understand the supplier probably knows more about its product than you do. It can be difficult to succumb to “reading the directions,” but in this case, it is the best advice.
    Test!

    Try the product on an inconspicuous location first. See whether you can obtain a small sample of the surface you wish to clean, polish, wax, or otherwise protect or restore and test the product on that piece. If that’s not possible, try the product in an area that is hidden or not readily visible, such as inside a wheel well, behind a bumper, etc. Better to discover its effectiveness, or lack of, prior to slathering it on the entire sidewall.

    Pick a Reputable Brand

    Stick with a reputable brand name. Check for contact information printed on the label or container. Notable product suppliers will have their address, phone number, and website info prominently placed on the product. The good companies will have a toll-free phone number. Any reputable firm will welcome feedback, whether pro or con.
    Don’t mix!

    This is your RV, not a cocktail. DO NOT MIX PRODUCTS! Find the preventive maintenance products that work best for you and stick with them. Avoid switching products every time you hear of something new. If your travel habits or home base changes, then it may be necessary to switch to a different product; however, until one no longer works for you, staying loyal will have a positive outcome most of the time.

    Take it from the experts – maintaining your RV’s exterior surfaces can be a challenge if the products you choose don’t have the intended results. Hopefully these tips will help you maintain that showroom look for many years or at least reap the return on your investment come trade-in time.

    FMCA RV Club brings you this monthly tech tip to Enhance Your RV Lifestyle. FMCA delivers RV know-how to its members. Learn more at https://join.fmca.com/trader18


    This information is for educational purposes. FMCA shall not be responsible nor retain liability for RVer’s use of the provided information. Prior to making any RV service decision, you are advised to consult with an RV professional.
  • In Case You Missed It: October RV News

    In Case You Missed It: October RV News

    It’s that time again. We’re here to hit you with the latest RV news you won’t want to miss for the month of October. We’ve got some great stories for you, so let’s dive right in.

    Sealander RV Transforms into a Small Houseboat – A company out of Germany has developed the Sealander, a vehicle that combines a towable RV and a boat all in one. The floating pod is made of glass fiber-reinforced plastic that’s lightweight and can be towed by a mid-sized SUV. When a user is ready to transform the towable into a boat, an outside motor is easily connected. The inside of a Sealander has two leather benches that can be converted into a bed. While transformed into a boat, users have the option of enjoying an open-air cruise. We love to see this type of innovative technology entering the RV space. Read More.

    Image: RV Business
    Venture RV Unveils Stratus Trailer at Open House – Venture RV recently unveiled their new Stratus lightweight travel trailer at this year’s RV Open House. The new Stratus interior was designed to have a more urban/sleek vibe. The model is available in six floor plans and starts at 4,500 pounds and 24 feet. All floor plans include a sizable pantry, an eight-cubic-foot refrigerator, and a 60 in. by 80 in. queen mattress upgrade. The Stratus is also dog-friendly with a doggie dish cubby and dual-purpose Venture bottle opener/doggie tie down. You’ll want to see this new unit for yourself. Read More.
    Image: RV Business

    Winegard Introduces Connected App for Easy Access – We’ll admit it, we still love the option of taking technology on the road with us and Winegard is making it easier. Winegard, a leader in the design and manufacturing of quality antenna products, recently announced the release of the Winegard Connected app that is compatible with 4G LTE hotspots and WiFi range extenders. The app was designed to ensure a simple setup and consistent operation across all of Winegard’s connectivity products – no network setup required. With the app, you’ll be able to easily connect with friends and family on the road, just like you would be able to do at home. Read More.

    Are Celebrities Driving Up Airstream’s Sales? – Forbes recently reported that the iconic silver-bullet-silhouette recreational vehicle was recently mentioned on the Tonight Show with Jimmy Fallon. Matthew McConaughey was a guest on the show and shared that he took his family on a wilderness trip in their Airstream. Airstream’s CEO said that conversation was organic and they do love the association, but their products are for everyone – not just celebrities. The company’s growth is record-setting, with a 24% growth year-over-year, and think the celebrity acknowledgment can’t hurt! Read More.

    We love keeping you in the know and now you’re all caught up! Stay tuned for next month’s edition of “In Case You Missed It”. Let us know your favorite story in the comments below.

  • In Case You Missed It: September RV News

    In Case You Missed It: September RV News

    It’s time to hit you with the RV news you need to know this month. September has been a busy time for the industry and we’re excited to catch you up on all things RV. Check out the top headlines below.

    Thor Set to Become Largest RV Maker in The World – Elkhart-based Thor Industries Inc. has just announced an agreement to acquire a German recreational vehicle manufacturer for approximately $2.4 billion. Once the deal is complete, Thor has stated that the deal with Erwin Hymer Group SE will create the world’s largest RV maker. This deal will give Thor an entrance into Europe. Erwin Hymer Group SE currently employs more than 7,300 globally and their RVs are sold through a network of over 1,200 retailers. Both companies have noted that there should be no change in employee headcount as a result of the acquisition. We’re interested to see how this all plays out for Thor! Read More.

    4G LTE and Wi-Fi Now Come Standard in Keystone Line – Keystone wants to make sure RVers have the ability to stay connected, so that’s why they are equipping their entire towable lineup with 4G LTE and Wi-Fi ready capability. The new Furrion technology is set to roll out at the Sept. 24-27 Elkhart RV Open House. The new technology offers an antenna that integrates 4G LTE and Wi-Fi with standard VHF/UHF/AM/FM reception, and the Wi-Fi and cellular signals are routed to a wall-mounted base inside the trailer. We love to see manufacturers step up their technology game! Read More.

    “America’s Largest RV Show” Comes to a Close –     The Hershey RV show held from Sept. 12-16 at the Giant Center in Hershey PA, tallied a final gate attendance of almost 60,000 people – just 5,000 attendees shy of last year’s show. The lower numbers were reportedly due to Hurricane Florence, but many vendors and manufacturers saw growth in sales. The show had 156 booth vendors and about 1,400 RVs from 42 manufacturers – we’ll highlight some big releases at the show below. All in all, America’s Largest RV Show was a great success and we want to give a huge shoutout to all of the attendees that stopped by the RV Trader booth – we’ll see you next year! Read More.

    New Releases at Hershey – As we mentioned above, Hershey was full of new models. Check out a few new releases you won’t want to miss below.

  • Tech Tip: Maintaining Your RV’s Exterior

    Tech Tip: Maintaining Your RV’s Exterior

    Take pride in your home on wheels! Read these tips from FMCA and the “RV Doctor” Gary Bunzer to keep your RV’s exterior looking its best.

    The Roof

    Get into the habit of inspecting the roof often, preferably once a month. Pay special attention to the seams, edges, moldings, caps, and anything else attached to the roof. Realize that any screw or mounting method used on the roof can become an entry point for moisture. Water intrusion is the largest threat to the integrity of any RV.

    Keep the roof clean. Use a soft broom every couple of weeks to sweep away leaves, dirt, and road grime. Look closely for evidence of mold and mildew, especially on synthetic surfaces. Remove bird droppings or tree sap as soon as it is spotted. Small problems will not go away on their own. Left unaddressed, small problems will only worsen and quickly move (along with its associated cost) from the preventive maintenance stage. Wash the roof with the appropriate cleaning agent four or five times each year. A clean roof is simply easier to inspect!

    And, finally, know what material forms your RV’s roof. Be sure the products you employ are safe for that roof surface material.

    Sidewalls

    Learn what material is used on the exterior of your RV’s sides. Is it painted aluminum? Fiberglass? Filon or another FRP derivative? ABS or PVC plastic? Are steel components used? If you own a Type C motorhome, don’t forget about the cab portion and its exterior surface.

    Scan the sides of your RV and start counting how many components are attached: storage bay doors, refrigerator vents, furnace vents, city water inlet, etc. Every attachment point is a potential source for a water leak.

    Inspect all seals around the sidewall openings. At the first sign of a deteriorating sealant, reseal! In severe cases, it may be necessary to completely remove the component and reinstall using fresh sealant. In other cases, a quick but correct application of a silicone sealant over the suspected gap may be all that is required.

    Next, check for black streaks. Unfortunately, every RV is susceptible to those nuisance black streaks caused by four elements: dirt, moisture, time, and neglect. This video explains how these streaks form

    When using any type of black streak remover, never apply the solution directly to the surface of the sidewall. Always moisten a clean, soft cloth with the remover and try to keep within the boundaries of the black streak. All black streak removers contain components that will remove existing wax, so areas treated with the remover will need to be re-waxed.

    Unless the black streak is deep-seated and has become oxidized, it eventually should come off or at least be minimized. If the black streak has oxidized into the finish, other products exist that can address this specific type of problem. But, remember, it’s crucial to use a product compatible with your RV’s exterior surface to prevent further damage – read those labels!

    Fiberglass Caps

    Many RVs have some form of plastic caps covering their front or rear ends. Over time and with exposure to UV rays and ozone, the appearance of these fiberglass caps can become dull or fade to a certain extent. This is the first degree of oxidation. Whenever sunlight, heat, and moisture collide, oxidation can be expected.

    The second level of oxidation results in a pronounced chalking of the finish. You’ve probably seen front and rear caps that display a distinct, blotch-like chalky residue that can be wiped away with a moist rag. Neglected further, the cap surface eventually can crack and deteriorate and, in the process, cross the line between restorative maintenance and damage repair. If individual fibers become visible in the fiberglass, it may require a repair out of the DIYer’s realm.

    It is imperative that fiberglass front and rear caps be protected with wax or polish. Plain old car wash soap is a good option because it does not remove wax as detergents do. Polish is similar to wax, but some polishes and polishing compounds actually contain trace amounts of abrasives.

    Undercarriage

    The underneath surface of the RV is the “forgotten” exterior surface. The main concern is critter infestation. Look for large gaps around exposed plumbing that may pass through the floor and subfloor. It’s important to seal around all gaps that can trap moisture and road debris.

    Look for loose or damaged sections of the underbelly, regardless of the types of materials used under there. Some RVs have sealed underbellies, while other RVs may be open to the bottom of the subfloor. Others may have only a soft plastic wrap encasing the floor insulation. Look for anything that appears out of the norm. While you’re down there, check all chassis and suspension components for damage or irregularities, and look for evidence of water leaks. If you use the RV in winter conditions where salt is used on the roads, check for rust.

    Stay Tuned

    Next month we’ll cover the best products to use on your RV’s exterior. Stay tuned!

    FMCA RV Club brings you this monthly tech tip to Enhance Your RV Lifestyle. FMCA delivers RV know-how to its members. Learn more at FMCA.com.

    This information is for educational purposes. FMCA shall not be responsible nor retain liability for RVer’s use of the provided information. Exercise caution when working on the roof. Prior to making any RV service decision, including roof maintenance, you are advised to consult with an RV professional.