The Smart RVer: DIY RV Maintenance and Repair

In this Fast Tip Friday episode, Eric quickly gives some helpful information about heated RV water hoses.  Eric uses Pirit and Camco as his examples.

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This is Eric Stark with The Smart RVer Podcast delivering the smarts you need to enjoy the freedom of the RV Lifestyle without the fear of breaking down!

Eric discusses how to research and find tools for your RV. He talks about how it's important to utilize the winter months to get as much done on your RV so it's summer ready! 

Staying On The Road:

In this section, Eric discusses being aware of low-priced awnings and other important RV products on the internet. It's important to know the difference between quality and garbage. You want the best for your RV so you’re sure it's reliable. Eric also discusses how important it is to book appointments for any non-DIY repairs. Call your local RV shop now before the busy season!

The Blue Ridge Mountains. Eric and Alexis have a discussion on the Mountains located between Georgia and North Carolina. They talk about the best places to stay and arguably, more importantly, the best places to eat! 

They also list fun activities for all ages! 

Eric talks about vent stuffers or also known as vent pillows! He goes over why they are important to have and where you can purchase them today!

In Episode 111 Eric Stark dives into the pros and cons of glass entry doors. He also visits 10 beautiful lakes in the great state of Montana. And of course, he reminds everyone how to keep their RVs on the road.

Need something to look forward to during the cold winter months? Plan a trip and get your kiddos involved! Summer is the perfect time for a family vacation however planning a trip can be a daunting task, especially if you have multiple children with different interests. 

More About Traveling with Kids: Rv Lifestyle

Staying On The Road:

Eric reminds everyone about screw covers and how to replace them. He discusses the slight variations in the size of screw covers and how almost all trailers and fifth wheels have them, whereas a lot of motorhomes don’t because of the way they’re constructed. So it's likely that if you own a fifth wheel or trailer, you know what he's talking about.

The best lakes in Montana: Eric and Alexis discuss the top lake destinations in Montana, where they are located, and how you can plan your trip to see them all! They talk about what makes each lake special, the history, and the activities when you visit the lakes.

Eric talks about the usefulness of Mechanic in a Bottle! It removes all varnish in the fuel system without having to remove the carburetor, removes carbon deposits and water, revitalizes rubber and plastic components, replaces lost octane, and rejuvenates old fuel. Cleanses your equipment's fuel system so that it starts efficiently and operates in top condition.

Fast Tip Friday - This is a brief 8-minute audio clip comparing Lippert Components and AP Products versions of the Thin Shades for RV Trailer Entrance Doors.

In Episode 110 of The Smart RVer Podcast Eric Stark digs into RV Storage/Organization and then delves into Trailer Tires and maintaining them and why that is important now. 

Title- Keeping Your RV Organized

Here are some tips on how to organize your RV:

– Create a storage plan. Decide what you need to store, and where you will store it.

– Get rid of clutter. Donate or sell items that you no longer need.

– Make use of vertical space. Install shelves, hooks, and other organizers to maximize space.

– Use storage bins and boxes. Or Tupperware.  Label them so you can easily find what you need.

– Keep the floor clear. Put away items when you’re not using them.

– Organize the exterior. Store items in the compartments or in a storage shed.

By following these tips, you’ll be able to keep your RV organized and tidy whether you’ll a full-timer or a weekend warrior.

Staying On The Road:

Trailer Tires can be a real problem if they are not maintained. Eric has done other podcast episodes and Youtube videos about trailer tire safety. With winter upon us and many RVers heading south to warmer states, it is a good refresher about traveling with a trailer be it a Fifth Wheel Trailer or Travel Trailer.

In this Episode Finger Lakes, NY is the destination of choice. And it turns out the Finger Lakes is an awesome place to go with the family and the RV to have a great adventure and create some more memories.

With so many RVers heading south to get to the warmer sunny climate, Eric reminds everyone to check out Sunpro Mfg for the sunshades they might need to create some shade and add some privacy while soaking up the sunny rays that are so common in states like Arizona, Texas, Florida and Southern California.

Whersafe RV GPS Tracking Systems - Use Promo Code “SMARTRVER10” and SAVE 10%

RV Slide Out Awning Fabrics - Use Promo Code “TheSmartRver” and SAVE 10%

Mopeka LP Tank Wireless Level Gauge Use Promo Code “Mopeka10” and Save 10%

Micro Air Soft Start Use - Run an RV Roof Top AC with one 2000 watt Generator

In Episode 109 Eric Stark highlights some of the great places to travel to in an RV. Such as Bristol, TN, or checking out the changing color of the leaves that happens in many parts of the country. It can be a great way for a family to spend some time together. Eric also talks about getting your RV winterized and the various ways to do it. There are also links to winterizing tips and products below.

As the leaves begin to change color, many people feel the urge to get out and enjoy the beauty of nature. One great way to do this is by traveling in your RV. This gives you the flexibility to go where you want, when you want, and stay for as long as you like. Plus, it’s a great way to enjoy some quality time with family or friends. When planning your trip, be sure to check out websites that track the progress of the leaves turning color. This way, you can be sure to catch them at their peak. And don’t forget to pack your camera! After all, there’s nothing like a fall foliage photo to help you remember the fun you had on your RV trip.

You can take your time exploring all the different areas where the leaves are changing, and you don’t have to worry about finding a place to stay each night. Plus, you can enjoy all the comforts of home while you’re on the road. Traveling in your RV is the perfect way to see the fall foliage and create some amazing memories at the same time. So pack up the RV and hit the road – it’s time for some fall fun!

Check out this website for the map of fall leaves! Leaf Peeping Map

Staying On The Road:

Eric digs into winterizing your RV and making sure it is buttoned up tight for the winter. There can be much more to winterizing than just getting the freshwater system taken care of. The out side will need attention just as the tires and batteries do. By doing it correctly you will have peace of mind during the winter months and in the spring you hopefully won’t have a bunch of unplanned repairs to do because of freezing or water damage.

Alexis and Eric talk about visiting Bristol, TN is a great palace for an RV vacation. There is more there than a speedway, much more. Listen now to find out.

Eric explains what items you need to have on hand to winterize the fresh water system of your RV. Use the link below to learn more about the items. And save some cash.

Smartsafefr link

Whersafe RV GPS Tracking Systems - Use Promo Code “SMARTRVER10” and SAVE 10%

RV Slide Out Awning Fabrics - Use Promo Code “TheSmartRver” and SAVE 10%

Mopeka LP Tank Wireless Level Gauge Use Promo Code “Mopeka10” and Save 10%

Micro Air Soft Start Use - Run an RV Roof Top AC with one 2000 watt Generator

In this episode, Eric Stark shares his thoughts on several topics for the Smart RVer to take advantage of. He covers the importance of friends and sharing the RV Lifestyle with them as well as the importance of maintaining the exterior of your RV. From trailers to motorhomes maintenance is important and should be thorough and done on a regular schedule.

More About Friends

Eric and Alexis visit White Fish Mt. and share why you should put Whitefish on your itinerary for your next RV adventure. Eric also encourages RVers to use and request by name Dinosaur Electronics circuit boards for The Smart RVers appliances.

More About Whitefish MT.

More About Dinosaur Electronics

Whersafe RV GPS Tracking Systems - Use Promo Code “SMARTRVER10” and SAVE 10%

RV Slide Out Awning Fabrics - Use Promo Code “TheSmartRver” and SAVE 10%

Mopeka LP Tank Wireless Level Gauge Use Promo Code “Mopeka10” and Save 10%

Micro Air Soft Start Use - Run an RV Roof Top AC with one 2000 watt Generator

In Episode 107 Eric Stark gives you his spin on Building lasting memories in your and the importance of keeping the Exterior of the RV sealed up. Along with Alexis, they visit Glacier Park and then he gives some hints about catalytic heaters.

RVing is a great way to make memories that will last a lifetime! Eric shares some great ideas on ways to make lasting memories while traveling in your with the family. To make great memories The Smart Rver thinks outside the box and that is what Eric shares in this episode.

More Making Memories While Rving

Staying On The Road: Resealing the Exterior of an RV!

The exterior of every RV needs attention to keep it watertight and free from expensive water damage. Eric goes through the steps that are needed to keep the RV exterior in great shape and sealed up the right way. The exterior is not something The Smart RVer ignores but instead takes on the challenge of keeping the RV nice and dry. Listen to Episode 107 Now!

Glacier Park Montana is a great place to visit and discover so much more about Montana. Glacier Park contains almost everything Montana has to offer in one place.

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Eric explains the advantages of using Catalytic and Ceramic Heaters in an RV. And why they are a fuel-efficient way to stay warm in the cold winter months.

Whersafe RV GPS Tracking Systems - Use Promo Code “SMARTRVER10” and SAVE 10%

RV Slide Out Awning Fabrics - Use Promo Code “TheSmartRver” and SAVE 10%Mopeka LP Tank Wireless Level Gauge Use Promo Code “Mopeka10” and Save 10%

Micro Air Soft Start Use - Run an RV Roof Top AC with one 2000 watt Generator

In Episode 106 Eric Stark reminds anyone who owns a motorhome to make sure they are maintaining the Engine and Chassis and not neglecting it because the focus has been on the house portion. Eric also points out that at least an hour a month is a good amount of time to set aside to maintain your RV. Then he and Alexis in The Next Stop highlight the activities for RV’ers in Hocking Hills Ohio. 

How long should you spend on RV maintenance? RV ownership comes with many responsibilities, one of which is regularly maintaining your RV. How often you need to perform maintenance tasks will depend on how often you use your RV, but as a general rule, it is a good idea to dedicate at least one hour per month to RV maintenance. This will help to ensure that your RV stays in good condition and does not develop any serious problems.

During your RV maintenance session, you should check all the fluid levels, test the batteries, inspect the tires, and clean the exterior and interior of the RV. By taking these simple steps, you can help to keep your RV in good shape and extend its lifespan.

Staying On The Road:

Motorhomes need maintenance too, All too Often We Forget About the Engine and Chassis The chassis and engine of a motorhome are all too often forgotten about and neglected. In this episode, Eric reminds the Smart RVer to pay attention to the chassis and avoid repairs that are caused by neglect. Taking care of the house is great but the chassis and engine need some love too.

Hocking Hills. A serene, natural, and peaceful getaway! This place has so much to offer an adventurous Rver. Natural surroundings are abundant in the National Forest nearby. You can’t go wrong with choosing Hocking hills as your next stop! 

In the last episode (105) Eric highlighted the Thin Shade by Lippert Components and in this episode, he explains the importance of replacing the 16 x 25 Plastic Window frames when they break or the glass starts to fall into the RV Entrance Door.

Whersafe RV GPS Tracking Systems - Use Promo Code “SMARTRVER10” and SAVE 10%

RV Slide Out Awning Fabrics - Use Promo Code “TheSmartRver” and SAVE 10%

Mopeka LP Tank Wireless Level Gauge Use Promo Code “Mopeka10” and Save 10%

Micro Air Soft Start Use to Run an RV Roof Top AC with one 2000-watt Generator

In Episode 105 Eric Stark dives into ways to make a living while traveling and gives some great tips about RV Slide Out Maintenance. He also visits Pismo Beach nestled along the Pacific Coast in California. 

RVing is a great way to travel and see the country, Traveling the country while working can be an awesome way to see the country as well. Traveling Nurses are the example to follow, although if you can apply what they do to your job and life you might be able to travel the U.S. Some will start a new career that revolves around RVing or an Internet-based business that affords them the time on the road.

Staying On The Road:

The RV Slide Room should be on your list of items to maintain. It is critical to a great weekend getaway or a longer RV Vacation. Eric reminds the Smart RVers to keep the mechanics lubricated and the Slide out Seals coated with a slide-out seal treatment. The slide room is easy to neglect until something fails and then it is all hands on deck to repair. Stay on top of the maintenance of not only the slide-out room bau also the RV Windows.

Pismo Beach, CA is a beautiful town to visit in an RV. It is a great place to take the family and enjoy the sand dunes and the great Pacific Ocean. The weather is great most of the year and there is no shortage of activities to keep the family busy. There are great places to eat, everything the beach has to offer, sand dunes, ATVing, RV parks next to the ocean and so much more. It is also a great place to use as a hub to plan some day trips or visit other nearby places.

Eric explains (Again - He felt he didn’t do it justice in the last episode) what a great product the Thin Shade is from Lippert Components. It will work on most Travel Trailers and Fifth Wheels if you have 16” x 25” plastic window frames.

 

 

 

 

Whersafe RV GPS Tracking Systems - Use Promo Code “SMARTRVER10” and SAVE 10%

RV Slide Out Awning Fabrics - Use Promo Code “TheSmartRver” and SAVE 10%

Mopeka LP Tank Wireless Level Gauge Use Promo Code “Mopeka10” and Save 10%

Micro Air Soft Start - Run an RV Roof Top AC with one 2000 watt Generator