Keeping Your Chassis in Tip-Top Shape
02-03-2016
Whether you are a fulltime RVer or a weekend warrior, your chassis needs to be serviced like any other motorized vehicle. The best thing you can do for your home on wheels is to regularly maintain these systems and follow the suggested services in your owner’s manual. Take into consideration the amount of miles you have under your belt, but also remember that not using your unit for extended periods of time has its own way of damaging your coach. Keeping these things in mind, here is some preventive maintenance services that will keep your chassis in tip-top shape.
Fluid & Filters
It is important to follow the recommended guidelines when changing your oil and oil filter. However, if your vehicle has low mileage because you do a lot of local camping, then you should perform this service according to the time recommendations. Most vehicles go anywhere from 3,000-6,000 miles or 3-6 months before changing your oil and filter. It is also important to change all your fluids and filters (including air and fuel) before putting your coach into storage for any extended period of time. Those driving diesels will also need to have the air dryer serviced and check the Diesel Coolant Additive. The additive must be added to keep the cylinder wall from being damaged by cavitation (or bubbles formatting inside the liquid) which causes pin holes to develop.
Chassis Lube
Lubing the chassis is something that a lot of people do not think about doing as often as they should, especially with an RV because the need is greater moving the heavy weight of your coach around. When you have your regular services done more often than not, only the front grease points are lubricated. Due to the weight of your coach it is essential that you keep the drive train lubed. Be sure to ask your service advisor if the lube includes the steering linkage, drive shaft, u-joint, front suspension, and rear suspension. I would also recommend using a higher grade of grease like Moly grease.
Transmission and Cooling System Services
Servicing your transmission and cooling system should be done before any long trip. The radiator can be flushed and checked for leaks. All of your hoses should be visually examined as well. Be sure to use a good quality coolant to guarantee no problems on the road. When you are having your transmission serviced, be sure that you use the manufacturer suggested filter and fluid. It is important to follow these guidelines to ensure the correct operation of your transmission.
A Couple More Ideas:
Tire rotation- at least once a year
Brake and Axle Service (for trailers)- at least once a year
Dash AC Service- at least once a year
Be sure to check your owner’s manual for their recommendation. Some may be a bit different than others but all services need to be performed. It is important to find a service center that you trust to do your work. Most shops have the capability of doing the chassis services as well as chassis repairs, but some are more specific to house repairs only. Take your time in finding the best shop for you, that will meet all your chassis and house needs. Happy trails…
Fluid & Filters
It is important to follow the recommended guidelines when changing your oil and oil filter. However, if your vehicle has low mileage because you do a lot of local camping, then you should perform this service according to the time recommendations. Most vehicles go anywhere from 3,000-6,000 miles or 3-6 months before changing your oil and filter. It is also important to change all your fluids and filters (including air and fuel) before putting your coach into storage for any extended period of time. Those driving diesels will also need to have the air dryer serviced and check the Diesel Coolant Additive. The additive must be added to keep the cylinder wall from being damaged by cavitation (or bubbles formatting inside the liquid) which causes pin holes to develop.
Chassis Lube
Lubing the chassis is something that a lot of people do not think about doing as often as they should, especially with an RV because the need is greater moving the heavy weight of your coach around. When you have your regular services done more often than not, only the front grease points are lubricated. Due to the weight of your coach it is essential that you keep the drive train lubed. Be sure to ask your service advisor if the lube includes the steering linkage, drive shaft, u-joint, front suspension, and rear suspension. I would also recommend using a higher grade of grease like Moly grease.
Transmission and Cooling System Services
Servicing your transmission and cooling system should be done before any long trip. The radiator can be flushed and checked for leaks. All of your hoses should be visually examined as well. Be sure to use a good quality coolant to guarantee no problems on the road. When you are having your transmission serviced, be sure that you use the manufacturer suggested filter and fluid. It is important to follow these guidelines to ensure the correct operation of your transmission.
A Couple More Ideas:
Tire rotation- at least once a year
Brake and Axle Service (for trailers)- at least once a year
Dash AC Service- at least once a year
Be sure to check your owner’s manual for their recommendation. Some may be a bit different than others but all services need to be performed. It is important to find a service center that you trust to do your work. Most shops have the capability of doing the chassis services as well as chassis repairs, but some are more specific to house repairs only. Take your time in finding the best shop for you, that will meet all your chassis and house needs. Happy trails…
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Author: Tammy Daly
