You've purchased an RV and the one thing that will help you have many years worth of enjoyment from it is without doubt a regular maintenance schedule. You may have negotiated a maintenance plan into your purchase price, if that's the case great. If you have bought a second hand RV, you may be able to do a lot of the preventative maintenance yourself.
Like any expensive item you cherish, you'll no doubt make sure that it's well protected and well looked after. Preventative RV maintenance is all about keeping a check on those parts that are either known to cause problems or will probably cause problems if left poorly maintained.
A few of the more common things to keep a close check on when maintaining an RV are very similar to that of a car. These maintenance items will ensure that the basics are covered.
Fuel System Check
Regularly check that the fuel filter is clean and free from debris that may have come from the fuel tank. Clogged filters will make it harder for the RV's engine to operate efficiently as the correct mixture of fuel to air may not be maintained within the combustion chamber. This can cause what's known as "kangaroo" jumping or juddering and is not a pretty sight.
Air Filter System
Check the air filters and replace them regularly at least 3 to 4 times a year depending on how dirty or dusty the local environment is. Air filters keep the air that's introduced into the engine combustion chamber clean. When these filters become blocked or compromised they will affect the efficiency and hence MPG of your RV. Check them regularly and replace when required or at the interval you have decided upon.
Braking System Check
Be sure to check the brake pads and brake fluid before attempting any long journey. Brake pads will get worn down fast in more difficult or challenging terrain. Check the brake fluid lines regularly for damage or leaks.
Ignition System Check
The contact points on the ignition need to be checked at least once every six months. Your engine may be having a hard time starting and this is exactly the type of problem caused by poor contacts. If you have a direct injection engine, clogged injectors could cause the same problem.
Cleaning products are readily available that you can put into the fuel tank that can add some life to your injectors. You should though know that if this does not work, your injectors may be past the point of saving and will need to be changed.
Suspension System Check
Tires that have uneven wear patterns are often the result of suspension problems or may just be incorrect inflation pressures. If the RV leans heavily in turns or the front end drops low when braking, there is a real possibility that you have suspension problems.
The old test for shock absorbers was to manually bounce each corner of the RV, if possible and watch to see if there are more than just a few bounces. Excessive bouncing will probably mean that the shocks need changing. If you have a large RV, then it would be best to get the above symptoms checked out at a local garage that offers RV maintenance.
Preventative maintenance will help your RV run for much longer and give you extra years of service. Look after your RV and it will look after you. It would be safe to say it's a bit like a marriage.
Article Source: http://www.ArticleStreet.com/
Friday, April 24, 2009
Saturday, March 7, 2009
Cities OK RV Storage Ordinances
As more and more RV owners are losing their right to park vehicles on their properties, sore RV owners seek other solutions for RV storage . Many towns across the country are banning RV storage in residential areas. Though some towns have adopted a grandfather law to allow current RV owners the right to park their RV in their driveways, not all towns are as generous. The RV storage issue has a two pronged affect; RV owners have to find another placed to store their RV and there are not many available RV storage centers. Some call this the price of owning luxury items whether it is monetary or psychological. Most of us enjoy luxury items like RVs; however, they have a Jekyll and Hyde affect. They look nice on the road, but change to an evil face when parked in front of a home.
RV storage is a safe and secure solution to the new property ordinances. RV storage can be covered and uncovered. RVs are parked behind a fenced gate that only provides access to other storage customers with an access code. Most RV storage properties have convenient wash and dump stations, and air stations. Electrical services are available as well.
The problem with RV Storage is the need for more RV storage properties and the infrequent turnover at existing properties. Now that more RV owners are searching for storage due to the new property ordinances, storage customers are finding it hard to find storage space available. Current RV storage customers rarely give up their storage space. Usually after long trips they return the RV to the storage space. And now that word is out about the lack of storage space available, they are not likely to give up their RV storage parking space.
Unfortunately for RV owners, city governments are not sensitive to the RV storage space issue at hand. With more residents complaining about RVs as an eyesore than RV owners, city officials are unlikely to reverse their decision. Though some city governments have grandfathered existing RV owners the right to park their RV at their homes, if they do not have adequate parking such as a paved driveway, they need to find other RV storage solutions. Those who do not have a choice but to seek RV storage do have a grace period to find another storage space.
Not all RV owners had the adequate RV storage space to begin with. Many condo associations and home owner associations have preexisting rules regarding the ban of RV parking. Most of these people already have RV storage at a self storage property. However, new adopted property ordinances could affect the RV industry that is already suffering from the high fuel prices. People will think twice before they purchase a RV; on the other hand, others will fail to consider city ordinances or HOA rules before they purchase a RV.
For anyone interested in buying an RV, it might be wise to find out your HOA rules and town ordinances before your sign on the dotted line. Also, call a self storage business to find out rates and availability.
Author : Self-Storage-Owner
http://www.articleclick.com/Article/Cities-OK-RV-Storage-Ordinances/989131
RV storage is a safe and secure solution to the new property ordinances. RV storage can be covered and uncovered. RVs are parked behind a fenced gate that only provides access to other storage customers with an access code. Most RV storage properties have convenient wash and dump stations, and air stations. Electrical services are available as well.
The problem with RV Storage is the need for more RV storage properties and the infrequent turnover at existing properties. Now that more RV owners are searching for storage due to the new property ordinances, storage customers are finding it hard to find storage space available. Current RV storage customers rarely give up their storage space. Usually after long trips they return the RV to the storage space. And now that word is out about the lack of storage space available, they are not likely to give up their RV storage parking space.
Unfortunately for RV owners, city governments are not sensitive to the RV storage space issue at hand. With more residents complaining about RVs as an eyesore than RV owners, city officials are unlikely to reverse their decision. Though some city governments have grandfathered existing RV owners the right to park their RV at their homes, if they do not have adequate parking such as a paved driveway, they need to find other RV storage solutions. Those who do not have a choice but to seek RV storage do have a grace period to find another storage space.
Not all RV owners had the adequate RV storage space to begin with. Many condo associations and home owner associations have preexisting rules regarding the ban of RV parking. Most of these people already have RV storage at a self storage property. However, new adopted property ordinances could affect the RV industry that is already suffering from the high fuel prices. People will think twice before they purchase a RV; on the other hand, others will fail to consider city ordinances or HOA rules before they purchase a RV.
For anyone interested in buying an RV, it might be wise to find out your HOA rules and town ordinances before your sign on the dotted line. Also, call a self storage business to find out rates and availability.
Author : Self-Storage-Owner
http://www.articleclick.com/Article/Cities-OK-RV-Storage-Ordinances/989131
Where to Travel in your RV: Choosing a Campsite
When it comes to RV travel destinations, the question is not, "Where can you go?" but rather, "Where can't you go?" There are so many choices in RV travel; the real challenge becomes selecting a single destination out of the many possibilities available. Whether you are hitting the road for a weekend or a month, there are more than enough options to suit every taste and budget. However, when it comes to selecting your campsite, there are a few travel tips that will ensure any RV vacation is a successful one.
The Advantage of RV Clubs
If you like to get your money's worth when you travel, an RV club might be the solution. Membership into these clubs can often get you discounts on campsites, as well as plenty of good advice on how to choose the best campsites for your needs. RV clubs can also help you choose the right vehicle if you are still in the market for when or are ready for an upgrade. Dealerships like Ameri-Camp are found across the country and offer a variety of travel trailers and fifth-wheels, and an RV club can advise you on how to shop for the best trailer for your individual needs.
Making Reservations
Most campgrounds will make reservations for you, whether you are considering a state park or a private campground. It is always a good idea to make a reservation in advance, especially if you are traveling during peak season for a particular area. If possible, you can even scope out the park to find your ideal camping spot, whether you like to find a location near the bathhouse or on the lakeshore. Many camps also offer activities like swimming and a playground for the kids, so take these amenities into consideration as well when you are booking your campsite.
Types of Parks
There are numerous types of RV destinations to choose from, with private campgrounds, state parks and national parks topping the list. Private parks can range from a rustic campsite to a full service resort complete with a golf course, pools, tennis courts and even spas. The quality of private campgrounds can vary considerably, so do your research before booking one of these locations, by getting a recommendation from someone who has staying in the camp or by checking out the area yourself. National and state parks can provide plenty of breathtaking scenery and outdoor adventure, but the campsites may be very rustic and some may not include RV hookups. Some campers prefer to find a private campsite outside of the state park so they can enjoy the wonders of the park during the day and the amenities of a private campground at night.
The RV experience provides a wide range of potential travel destinations for your travel pleasure. Whether you are looking to spend a little time on the beach to escape the winter chill or camp in the mountains during the summertime, your RV can take you where you want to go in style and comfort.
Author : Salem
http://www.articleclick.com/Article/Where-to-Travel-in-your-RV-Choosing-a-Campsite/1057564
The Advantage of RV Clubs
If you like to get your money's worth when you travel, an RV club might be the solution. Membership into these clubs can often get you discounts on campsites, as well as plenty of good advice on how to choose the best campsites for your needs. RV clubs can also help you choose the right vehicle if you are still in the market for when or are ready for an upgrade. Dealerships like Ameri-Camp are found across the country and offer a variety of travel trailers and fifth-wheels, and an RV club can advise you on how to shop for the best trailer for your individual needs.
Making Reservations
Most campgrounds will make reservations for you, whether you are considering a state park or a private campground. It is always a good idea to make a reservation in advance, especially if you are traveling during peak season for a particular area. If possible, you can even scope out the park to find your ideal camping spot, whether you like to find a location near the bathhouse or on the lakeshore. Many camps also offer activities like swimming and a playground for the kids, so take these amenities into consideration as well when you are booking your campsite.
Types of Parks
There are numerous types of RV destinations to choose from, with private campgrounds, state parks and national parks topping the list. Private parks can range from a rustic campsite to a full service resort complete with a golf course, pools, tennis courts and even spas. The quality of private campgrounds can vary considerably, so do your research before booking one of these locations, by getting a recommendation from someone who has staying in the camp or by checking out the area yourself. National and state parks can provide plenty of breathtaking scenery and outdoor adventure, but the campsites may be very rustic and some may not include RV hookups. Some campers prefer to find a private campsite outside of the state park so they can enjoy the wonders of the park during the day and the amenities of a private campground at night.
The RV experience provides a wide range of potential travel destinations for your travel pleasure. Whether you are looking to spend a little time on the beach to escape the winter chill or camp in the mountains during the summertime, your RV can take you where you want to go in style and comfort.
Author : Salem
http://www.articleclick.com/Article/Where-to-Travel-in-your-RV-Choosing-a-Campsite/1057564
Recreational Vehicle Sales - North America - Capital RV Sales
Capital RV Sales is the one of the largest RV dealers and service centers. We help you buy and sell RV in North America and are located at Palm Harbor, Florida. Our 35 years of experience in the automotive industry assures you of the best service.
A recreation vehicle is a great way to travel while you are on vacations with your family. The problem mostly faced while you are planning any kind of tour is about where to stay, food and etc. Owning a RV means having the independence and flexibility of enjoying your journey. We list a vast range of RVs of different sizes and brands.
There are mainly two types in RVs which are Motorized [e.g. motor homes] and Towables [e.g. 5th wheel and Travel Trailers]. There are again 3 classes in Motor Homes that we supply which are Class A motor homes, Class B motor homes and Class C motor homes. These recreational vehicles are in both diesel and gas engines. For more details on Motorized and Towables please visit Capital RV here. We welcome you to our showroom for buying or selling your RV. At our online showroom you will find all models and varieties in RV's.
If you are interested in selling your used RV then we can provide you with a comprehensive marketing program. Purchasing your used RV is a great idea because of the savings. You get the RV with all the features you require along with an affordable price.
We assure you with a warranty on each and every deal. We handle all the paper work and loan payoffs when you work with us. We are a licensed and bonded dealer and use GE direct financing. We provide a free buyer's pre-approval and have extended warranties available. Our services include recreational vehicle appraisals and delivery.
Serving our customer is not only our main concern but our only concern. When you work with Capital RV Sales, you are working with a full time staff of RV pros.
Author : Gene
http://www.articleclick.com/Article/Recreational-Vehicle-Sales-North-America-Capital-RV-Sales/968215
A recreation vehicle is a great way to travel while you are on vacations with your family. The problem mostly faced while you are planning any kind of tour is about where to stay, food and etc. Owning a RV means having the independence and flexibility of enjoying your journey. We list a vast range of RVs of different sizes and brands.
There are mainly two types in RVs which are Motorized [e.g. motor homes] and Towables [e.g. 5th wheel and Travel Trailers]. There are again 3 classes in Motor Homes that we supply which are Class A motor homes, Class B motor homes and Class C motor homes. These recreational vehicles are in both diesel and gas engines. For more details on Motorized and Towables please visit Capital RV here. We welcome you to our showroom for buying or selling your RV. At our online showroom you will find all models and varieties in RV's.
If you are interested in selling your used RV then we can provide you with a comprehensive marketing program. Purchasing your used RV is a great idea because of the savings. You get the RV with all the features you require along with an affordable price.
We assure you with a warranty on each and every deal. We handle all the paper work and loan payoffs when you work with us. We are a licensed and bonded dealer and use GE direct financing. We provide a free buyer's pre-approval and have extended warranties available. Our services include recreational vehicle appraisals and delivery.
Serving our customer is not only our main concern but our only concern. When you work with Capital RV Sales, you are working with a full time staff of RV pros.
Author : Gene
http://www.articleclick.com/Article/Recreational-Vehicle-Sales-North-America-Capital-RV-Sales/968215
How Can One Determine a Recreational Vehicle Value?
You decide that when you go for your next vacation, you will do so in your own RV. However, there is a little hitch. When you check out the price, it is almost double the sum you are prepared to pay for it. What can be done in such circumstances? Forget about the dream? Forget about the vacation? Carry on with a normal vacation, postponing the dream of owning an RV to the future?
Choose and Use the Second Hand Market as a Magical Wand
When ever you want something is too expensive to buy new, search for it in the second hand market. Chances are that you can get your item at almost half the price. The trick is to find out the right person to buy your item from. The 'right person' is usually a person who is in a hurry to sell off the item, for which he/she will be happy with the price you are offering, if it is reasonable enough.
Coming back to buying a second hand RV - you will find enough offers around you to enable you to make a good bargain. However, before agreeing on any price, the final recreational vehicle value should be determined with the help of a good mechanic and a routine test run.
Her are some things to be checked in order to determine the actual recreational vehicle value and commence negotiations. First, consider the mileage; the mileage of any vehicle is actually the foremost thing of interest for the mechanic. He will check it out and find out all the things are in order. In the case of the RV the lower the mileage the better will be the recreational vehicle value, it is said. While you are at it, you should also find time to check out if there is any type of funny noises are coming from the engine, or anywhere else in the body.
Another thing to check is the RV's overall condition. The recreational vehicle value is directly proportional to the overall appearance of it. If the vehicle looks ramshackle, then the value will be rock bottom; however if the RV is well maintained, painted and all, its value will be quite high.
A third thing to check is the type of accessories that come with the RV. Since the vehicle has been used, it is expected that there should be the minimum accessories such as tape/cd player, rear view mirrors, seat covers, and so on. The recreational vehicle value would depend very much on whether the vehicle has the minimum required accessories or not.
Based upon the above observations, the advice of your mechanic, and your own experience and expertise, you will be able to come to a final conclusion regarding the right recreational vehicle value by comparing your findings to the total price quoted for the RV in the market.
Author : John
http://www.articleclick.com/Article/How-Can-One-Determine-a-Recreational-Vehicle-Value-/2674
Choose and Use the Second Hand Market as a Magical Wand
When ever you want something is too expensive to buy new, search for it in the second hand market. Chances are that you can get your item at almost half the price. The trick is to find out the right person to buy your item from. The 'right person' is usually a person who is in a hurry to sell off the item, for which he/she will be happy with the price you are offering, if it is reasonable enough.
Coming back to buying a second hand RV - you will find enough offers around you to enable you to make a good bargain. However, before agreeing on any price, the final recreational vehicle value should be determined with the help of a good mechanic and a routine test run.
Her are some things to be checked in order to determine the actual recreational vehicle value and commence negotiations. First, consider the mileage; the mileage of any vehicle is actually the foremost thing of interest for the mechanic. He will check it out and find out all the things are in order. In the case of the RV the lower the mileage the better will be the recreational vehicle value, it is said. While you are at it, you should also find time to check out if there is any type of funny noises are coming from the engine, or anywhere else in the body.
Another thing to check is the RV's overall condition. The recreational vehicle value is directly proportional to the overall appearance of it. If the vehicle looks ramshackle, then the value will be rock bottom; however if the RV is well maintained, painted and all, its value will be quite high.
A third thing to check is the type of accessories that come with the RV. Since the vehicle has been used, it is expected that there should be the minimum accessories such as tape/cd player, rear view mirrors, seat covers, and so on. The recreational vehicle value would depend very much on whether the vehicle has the minimum required accessories or not.
Based upon the above observations, the advice of your mechanic, and your own experience and expertise, you will be able to come to a final conclusion regarding the right recreational vehicle value by comparing your findings to the total price quoted for the RV in the market.
Author : John
http://www.articleclick.com/Article/How-Can-One-Determine-a-Recreational-Vehicle-Value-/2674
Subscribe to:
Posts (Atom)