SERVICE WITH A SMILE

Maintenance is motorhoming’s necessary evil. There are some jobs you can do yourself, but we explain when it’s time to hand them over to a pro

Servicing your caravan or motorhome will pay dividends in the long run. Not only will you have a record of maintenance in the event you wish to sell the vehicle, you will also have the security that your vehicle is in tip top condition to ensure the safety of you and your family.

Basic maintenance work can be carried out by most owners, but when it comes to the more technical aspects, you will want to call in the experts.

There are three areas of maintenance to consider: annual servicing – best left to the experts; basic maintenance and checks of all working parts; and winterising your vehicle.

Naturally you will want to undertake regular checks to ensure your vehicle is legally roadworthy. You can easily check the basics like tyres, lights, brakes and damp. Checking that you have sufficient oil, water, windshield washer, transmission and brake fluid are no-brainers. Check your tyres for wear and ensure correct inflation. Don’t forget the all-important spare tyre.

These are all things you can do regularly to ensure your vehicle is in top shape. But when it comes to electricity and gas, you are legally obliged to call in the experts - your vehicle warranty may also require it, so be sure to check the fine print. Ditto any warranties that may be additional, like those of refrigerators, air conditioners and heaters.

BASIC DIY AND ROUTINE MAINTENANCE

• Wash the exterior and awning.

• Change bulbs where necessary.

• Don’t overlook seat covers and window treatments. The old adage ‘a stitch in time’ is certainly true here. By undertaking running repairs on upholstery, zips, blinds and curtain tracks you may avoid a costly exercise further down the track. Clean and mend upholstery, vacuum tracks and use the recommended products to free up any sticky tracks and closures.

•

Ensure all vents are free of obstruction.

Lift beds and open all storage areas and

cupboards to check for damp. Use your nose, eyes and the aid of a torch or damp meter to look deep into recesses for any signs of damp or mould which may be traced to leaks. If you have a damp meter, check that it’s less than 15 percent, which is considered normal. Over that and you may have a water ingress issue or a leak. Expert help may be needed to ensure you do not have a problem with damp.

• Meanwhile, check taps, shower heads and sinks for signs of build-up, leakage or corrosion.

• Check and oil hinges and closures.

• Check hoses and connections.

• Run the gas to ensure the flame is burning a nice clear blue.

• Check pins, plugs, sockets and couplings for wear and tear.

•

• Check fuses and cut-off switches.

• Test smoke alarms and gas detectors.

• Check fire extinguishers.

• Touch up scratches and minor bodywork.

Apply common sense to any other routine maintenance, making careful note of

Check battery levels. the things you need to bring to the attention of the experts. Book early for your annual or bi-annual service with a trusted service centre.

CALL IN THE EXPERTS

You have invested a great deal into your motorhome so don’t let it all go down the gurgler by trying to save money on expert help. Such is the sophistication of contemporary RVS that much of the repair work is beyond the average DIY guy. Call in the experts and you can be assured of years of trouble-free motoring.

Here are a few tips for choosing the right service centre.

1. Accreditations. Is the service centre endorsed by a reputable company or brand? Are certificates or awards clearly on display? If not don’t be afraid to ask what qualifications have been obtained by the service team.

2. Are warranties offered? A good technician will stand by their work.

3. Have they been referred or recommended by word of mouth? Look for testimonials.

4. Do they agree to keep you informed of all extra costs and repairs?

5. Are they busy? Choosing a good service centre is like choosing a good restaurant. Look for a crowd. Especially now as the RV industry is experiencing unprecedented growth. Expect delays when making a booking and get in early to avoid a seasonal crush.