Motorhome Wheels And The Effects of Winter

It’s likely that your motorhome’s wheels experienced the same winter of discontent as we all did last winter.

At this time of year, it’s understandable to want to forget the poor weather of last season but don’t be too hasty in pulling back the covers on your motorhome just yet. There are some important checks to make on your tyres before you begin any trips.

Top tips for tyre safety this spring

1. Look out for winter wear on your tyres after being in storage. This kind of damage is often presented as cracking in the rubber or prior to cracking there could be faded grey areas on your tyres. It is important to check all tyres including the spare as this could result in a blow out on the road
2. As you will know, tyre pressures should be checked periodically anyway. One of the important times to check is before you hit the road again after winter storage. Don’t incorrectly assume that the pressure will remain the same as when you stored it away; leaking can take place over winter
3. If your tyres are not at the right pressure when you begin a journey then handling can be negatively affected and this can result in accidents on the road
4. Do not check tyre pressures when they are warm as this could give you an incorrect reading
5. Tyres treads are governed by law in terms of the measurements there must be existing within your tyres. They must be at least 1.6 mm in depth
6. The gaps in between tyre treads can create a space which is capable of picking up unwanted objects on the road. Such objects could be bits of glass, large stones or anything else that fits in the space. Check your tyres to make sure none of these objects have pierced a hole. Get your tyres inflated and wait 24 hours to see if there has been any deflation
7. The fifth wheel of your motorhome ( i.e. the spare tyre) will also need to be included in all of the above checks so don’t forget to include this in all your inspections

If you are uncertain of any damage which has happened to your tyres we recommend that you take your motorhome to a specialised motorhome dealer with an aftersales service. This will ensure that your tyres are ready to be used at the highest possible safety standards.

Spring Preparations For Your Motorhome

It looks like the bad weather will be gone for a few months at least and most RV-ers are looking forward to getting behind the wheel again for some sunny excursions.

However, the cold winter will have had an impact on your motorhome while it has been in storage so it is important to make some routine checks before you go anywhere. Here are some tips before you take to the road.

1. Firstly, don’t leave it too late. Have a thorough inspection of your motorhome inside and out. If there is anything needing attention from a mechanic book it in as soon as you can. Leaving just a short time before could mean you find repair jobs that will take a few days to get sorted. Also, there could be a longer waiting time as many other motorhome owners are doing the same thing at this time of year
2. Many motorhome dealers offer a spring check service that will get your RV in top shape and give you peace of mind before setting off
3. Your own inspections should involve checking tyres for wear; checking wheels for corrosion; looking to see if there has been any leaks internally e.g. checking to see if there are any marks or damp patches in or on the furniture inside. Also check for fuel leaks on the floor underneath your RV
4. Look through your manual to see if there are any required actions to take after storing your motorhome. This will include guidance on oil and filter changes. If in doubt, and you think you oil needs changing then it is a good idea to do so
5. It is recommended that LPG inspections are carried out annually and at the start of the season by a qualified motorhome specialist
6. Have a look at all your fluid connections including connections to waste and fresh water tanks. Test them out to make sure they are still in working order
7. Sanitize the fresh water system by filling the tank and draining it a few times. There should be no water in the system if you have correctly winterized your motorhome, if not, then there could be an offensive smell. Flushing the system will get rid of this
8. Infestations of mice and inspects can often occur over the winter months. Have a look in all cupboards, refrigerator vents and small spaces for signs of habitation
9. Let some air inside. Even if there has been no sign of damp or mildew it’s likely there will be a slight fusty aroma. Vacuum all the carpets and soft furnishings.
10. Replenish your stock. This will include: cleaning and cooking products and kitchen utensils
11. If you have a trailer then it is a good time to repack the bearings. Over winter the grease can drift away from the bearing and create a dry spot which in turn can lead to damage
12. If you left our battery charging or left it insitu over winter now is a good time to have a look and see that all is well. You should also check that all your other battery operated mechanisms are working including lights and signals
13. Smoke alarms and carbon monoxide detectors need to be tested as well as fire extinguishers