Before you set out on your next trip, take a while to check out the following items. It could save you a lot of money and heartache.
1. Cab Chassis
- Check that that fluid levels are in operating range (oil, power steering, engine coolant, windshield washer, transmission, brake fluid etc.)
- Check starting battery for clean terminals and connections, top up with distilled water if necessary.
- Check the operation of all lights and flashers.
- Check horn and reversing beeper.
- Start engine and check all gauges and warning lights.
- Check foot brake and hand (parking) brake.
- Check all wheel nuts for tightness.
- Check all tyre pressures, including the spare.
2. Generator
- Check that the generator is clean as excess dirt can affect the operation of your generator.
- Service the air cleaner as per the owner's manual.
- Check oil level and change as required by the owner's manual.
- Check generator starting battery for clean connections and proper state of charge.
- Keep governor and choke linkage clean.
- heck manufacturer's owner's manual to insure proper maintenance has been performed.
3. Refrigerator
- Operate refrigerator on gas and look at the burner to see if the flame is blue. If not, have repairs performed.
- Check and ensure that there are no obstructions in the ventilation system.
- Check to see that the knobs are not stripped causing a false thermostat reading.
- When packing the refrigerator, do not pack so tightly as to shut off internal air flow.
4. Air Conditioning
- Check air filters and clean if necessary. Look to see if cooling unit coils are clean and free from debris.
- Check to that condensing unit is clean, free of obstructions and that there is nothing blocking air flow.
5. Inside the Motorhome
- Turn off the water pump switch.
- Close all windows and vents.
- Check that cupboard doors and drawers are closed.
- Check that the refrigerator door is fastened.
- Check that no heavy articles are stored in overhead cupboards.
- Check that counter tops, range top, table tops and shelves are clear of unsecured items.
- Where is the location of fire extinguisher(s) and are they fully charged?
6. Items You May Want To Take With You
- Adequate supply of prescription medicines and copies of prescriptions.
- Prescription sunglasses and prescription.
- Camera and film, VCR.
- Stationery and stamps.
- Address book and telephone list.
- Reading material.
- Spare parts - set of engine drive and accessory belts, coolant hoses, fuel, air and oil filters, oil, reflective emergency triangles, light bulbs, fuses and a 12volt trouble light with cord.
- Accurate tyre pressure gauge.
- Spare parts for generator - spark plugs, oil, air filter.
- Emergency items - first aid kit, heating pad, ice bag.
- Pet supplies.
- Extra toilet chemicals and toilet paper.
- Maps covering the areas that you are travelling to.
7. Thoughts to Consider
- Be sure that your Motorhome insurance is current and that you have a copy of your policy and emergency numbers with you (CMCAssist and emergency breakdown towing)
- Avoid carrying a great deal of cash while travelling. Use credit cards. Keep one credit card for emergencies.
- Confirm any reservations well in advance.
- Make a clothing checklist.
- Secure home and valuables before leaving.
- Discontinue appropriate home services, mail and newspaper deliveries.
- Notify neighbours and police of departure and return dates.
8. If Towing a Trailer
- Is the tow bar hooked up and checked?
- Are the safety chains crossed under the coupling and hooked?
- Are the trailer lights working?
- Is the trailer's braking system functioning?
9. Just Before Driving Away
- Disconnect and stow electrical cord, sewer hose and water hose.
- Check TV antenna to ensure that it is in the stowed position.
- For safety's sake, the gas should be turned off or have a device to shut off the supply should a rapid leak occur.
- Check that items inside compartments are secure and that compartments are properly secured/locked.
- Are the levelling jacks in the raised position?
- Are the awnings up and secured?
- Is the door step retracted?
- Is the outside door locked?
- Are the rear view mirrors and driver's seat properly adjusted?
- Is your campsite clean?
- Is everyone Buckled up?
