Got a new RV? You've probably heard all kinds of helpful advice on maintenance, particularly about getting rid of black sidewall streaks, awning potions, and roof sealants, but few talk about grease.
Grease is the word, and properly applied, keeps it all moving smoothly. We'll address this article to those of you with towable units. Travel trailers and fifth wheels have something in common. The advice is, "DON'T drive 'til the wheels fall off.' And they can, really and truly. Perhaps one of the most neglected parts on an RV are the wheel bearings. They keep the wheels and the axles working well together, but neglected, things can get real hot, real fast, and leave you sitting beside the road (at best) or tossed off the road (much worse).
Wheel bearings should be inspected and repacked with grease every year. Yep, mark it on your calendar and get 'er done. If you don't know how to repack a wheel bearing, it's not a real tough job, just a bit messy. Our sister blog, RV Tech Tips has a fine article on doing the job you can find right here.
Now, you fifth wheel owners, listen up. Your fifth wheel hitch is another oft-neglected but essential piece of equipment. Those jaws must close securely around your fifth wheel kingpin, lest there be a chance of that pin slipping loose out of the hitch, and the fifth wheel actually falling onto your truck bed rails. It makes a mighty big mess of body work and a big embarrassment to boot. Been there, and sadly enough, done that.
Take a few minutes and lubricate your hitch's moving parts. Here is an interesting piece on the subject, in our sister blog RV Now. It doesn't take long, but it can be messy. So drag out your work duds and take the time to make your life on the road smoother and safer.
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