How to Check Out a Used RV
A recreational vehicle (or RV for short) is a self-contained vehicle such as a motor home, travel trailer, fifth wheel, or pop-up camper that is used for camping or short-term living quarters. Most units have a full kitchen with eating area, bathroom with shower or tub, and a sleeping area. Larger recreational vehicles even have a washer/dryer combination, generators and other upscale appointments. If you are in the market for an RV but you are on a budget, checking out a used RV may be just the ticket.
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Instructions
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Check the condition of the propane tanks, connections and regulator. Find out how long ago the bottles were inspected. Spray a mild soap solution over all propane fittings and watch for bubbles to check for leaks.
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Check the battery-operated appliances and lights to make sure the battery is in working order. Make sure the RV power cord is not plugged in for this test. Disconnect the battery and plug in the RV power cord. Recheck the lights and battery-powered appliances to make sure the power inverter is working. Test all of the electrical outlets in the RV with an electrical tester (available at hardware stores) or by plugging in a small electrical device such as a lamp into the outlets.
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Connect the RV to an external water source with a garden hose and check inside and out for water leaks. Use a flashlight and check under all interior cabinets as this is probably where the water lines are run. Disconnect the water hose and open a water tap to make sure the pump is in operating condition. Flush the toilet to make sure it works smoothly.
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Check the tires for wear and cracks. Make sure the tires are in good working order before moving the RV as a bad tire could blow out and cause an accident.
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Check the leveling jacks on the outside of each corner of the RV to make sure they move up and down. Manual jacks are operated by a crank. When turned in a counterclockwise direction, the crank lowers the jack. Turning in a clockwise direction raises the jack. Power jacks are operated by a switch.
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Test drive a motor home since it moves under its own power. Make sure it accelerates, brakes, corners and manuevers correctly. Ask the owner for the maintenance history. Have the mechanical condition of the motor home checked out by a reputable mechanic if there is something you are unsure of.
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Check the appliances. Make sure the refrigerator, stove, water heater, furnace and air conditioner all work correctly.
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Tips & Warnings
An improperly maintained RV may have water leaks that have caused hidden damage. Check the floor of the RV around doors to make sure it does not sag or give when you walk on it. Check carefully for water damage around windows and exterior storage compartment doors. Be thorough as water damage in an RV is expensive to repair.
Recreational vehicles typically sit for long periods of time without being moved. Make sure the tires have the correct air pressure before attempting to move the RV. Low tire pressure could have an adverse affect on the handling of the RV, causing an accident.
