subject: What You Should Know Before You Head Out On The Road In Your New Rv [print this page] RVs are seen by many as a money saverRVs are seen by many as a money saver. RVs are seen by many as an entertainment venue. The fabulous thing about RVs is that they are both. The RV is a unique animal with many advantages.
Just like any car or truck, RVs require maintenance. To avoid any unnecessary breakdowns on the road, you should always follow the recommended maintenance schedule. By having regular check-ups you can prevent most problems before they happen.
Some people realize after a while they aren't getting the mpg they used to or were promised. It's easy to look up what the manufacturer claims. If you aren't coming close, there may be another problem that needs to be looked at. Driving in the city will reduce your mpg while highway driving will increase it.
A couple quick checks might resolve the problem. Take the time to look over your RV before you head out on the road. This means all aspects of it. Most problems are easy to take care of without the help of a mechanic. To improve fuel efficiency:
-Look at your tires. Do they look soft? Check tire pressure and make sure it is within the manufacturer's recommended pressure. Soft tires will eat up gas and make you more prone to flats.
- check the condition of your tires
-Wheel alignment. When you're driving, loosen your hands around the steering wheel for a second. Do you keep going straight or does your vehicle start to veer? If it veers, it's time to have the alignment fixed.
- Take a look at the engine. If you don't know much about vehicles, have a mechanic take a look at it.
-Oil should be changed every 3,000 miles or on new vehicles, every 6,000 miles. If you don't, you run the risk of having your engine seize up. Dirty oil can be damaging to your vehicle.
-Rotate tires and balance them. This will make sure tires wear evenly which improves how your vehicle runs.
-If you have an older vehicle, make sure the gas cap seal is still in good condition so gas doesn't evaporate.
-Brakes not only stop your car, but if your brakes aren't working properly, they can cause a 'drag' and eat away at your fuel. Replace brake pads and brakes as needed.
-Make sure your fuel injection system is running properly.
With all of these in running order, gas mileage should improve. A new RV shouldn't have any problems, however older RVs or used RVs should have a routine check at least once a year, especially if the vehicle has been sitting in storage. Keep a detailed maintenance record and keep all your receipts so you know what services you've had and when.