If you’ve decided to purchase a caravan, understandably, you want to take good care of it. They don’t come cheap, and you want to get your money’s worth.
However, for beginners, it can be challenging to know where to get started. They are large vehicles and require a lot of attention.
Below we are going to take a look at five maintenance tips that you can follow to keep your caravan, camper, or RV in great condition.
Let’s get started!
Keep the exterior clean (not just the interior).
Most people tend to worry about keeping the interior of their van tidy, and while this is important, it shouldn’t be the only area you focus on. Cleaning the exterior will help prolong life and maintain its value.
To do this, you need to treat it the same as your car. It would be best if you used the appropriate caravan cleaners for the job. Don’t forget to stay away from pressure washers, too, as they can damage the seals.
Check your gas, power, and water systems regularly.
Over time, the gas, power, and water systems in your van are susceptible to wear and tear. Therefore, you must check them regularly so that you know if they are in good working order.
This will help you identify any issues, such as broken parts, before you head out onto the open road. The last thing you want is to go boondocking and realise that your battery isn’t charged or that half of your lights aren’t operating.
It’s always better to be one step ahead.
Maintain your tire pressure.
Much like your regular car, you have to keep your van tires at the correct pressure level to prevent dangerous blowouts. You can do this by checking your caravan manual and filling them up at any gas station.
Keeping on top of this will not only improve your safety, but the lifespan of your tires will be extended. It’s recommended that you check them once a month regardless of whether or not you are using your van.
Distribute weight carefully.
Distributing weight evenly in your caravan is crucial. Each type has its own limits, and you need to make sure that you aren’t at risk of overloading. Otherwise, some serious accidents can occur while you are driving.
Use a nose weight gauge before and after your trip, and make sure that you choose an appropriate towing weight distribution system to hook up to your vehicle.
Ensure your van is ventilated.
Caravans need to be ventilated to avoid condensation caused by water vapor. Without the correct system, it can lead to corrosion and, in some cases, mould and mildew. You may also find that your van smells bad when cooking inside.
To get the correct amount of airflow, there are a few solutions. Alongside opening windows, you can install wind deflectors and vents. This will help combat pollutants and keep your van cooler in the summer months.
Featured image: Stefan Widua/Unsplash
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