Whether you are a seasoned Camper or just starting out. Maintaining your camper and trailer is an important part of ensuring that you have a safe and enjoyable camping experience. Some key aspects of trailer and camper maintenance include checking the electrical system, cleaning and repairing any exterior damage, performing regular safety checks, and staying on top of any needed repairs or replacements. With the right maintenance techniques, you can keep your camper and trailer in excellent condition for years to come. Here are a few tips on how to properly maintain these important pieces of camping equipment:
- Start by checking the electrical system of your camper and trailer, including any fuses, wires, and connections. If you notice any issues or signs of damage, be sure to get them fixed right away. Verify your turn signals and brake lights are working. Connect your vehicle and test all exterior lights before every trip.
- Next, take the time to clean and repair any exterior damage, such as scratches or dings. Depending on the severity of the damage, you may need to enlist the help of a professional for larger repairs. The last thing you want is water pouring in from a passing rainstorm. Check roof vents, the penetration seals, and the roof membrane itself.
- Along with cleaning and repairing the exterior of your camper or trailer, it is also important to perform regular safety checks. This includes checking the brakes, tires, and lights to ensure that they are all in good working condition. The Trailer braking system is not designed to stop both the vehicle and trailer. It is intended to assist with braking. Meaning the vehicle needs to stop itself and some of the load from the trailer. Most manufacturers have guidelines about proper towing. Study these before any trip, even a short one across town.
- Repacking the bearings every couple of years is particularly important. If you tow your camper a lot repacking the bearings every year may be necessary. When repacking the bearings, the brakes are visible. If the brakes are good and adjusted you will not need to replace them. Review the brake requirements for the make and model of your trailer to verify specifications. Be careful you do not get grease on the braking components. Keep the brakes clean and reinstall carefully as outlined by the manufacturer.
- Finally, be sure to stay on top of any needed repairs or replacements. This could include anything from replacing worn-out tires to fixing a leaky roof. By taking care of these things on time, you can prevent bigger problems down the road. Do not forget your spare tire! Ensure it’s also inflated and not too old. Tires have a life expectancy that varies by manufacturer. The tires have a mark indicating the date of manufacture. Tires are the only thing touching the road, make sure they are of high quality and ready for use.
- There are a lot of upgrades that can be made to your Camper. At Merrill Automotive we routinely install larger, stronger axles. Upgrade leaf springs and add brass bushings. A customer favorite is the greaseable double-think shackle sets. These minimize trailer squeak and provide a secure stance for the moving components. To meet weight requirements the manufacturers, tend to build lighter chassis components. This is great for gas mileage but may not sustain the abuse of traveling.
By following these tips, you can keep your camper and trailer in good condition and enjoy many years of safe and enjoyable camping trips. If you need any help with Service or Maintenance on your Class B or Class C RV, Merrill Automotive can help. We are in Lakewood, CO. Give us a call today.