RV Maintenance: Inspect Your Engine Compartment

If your engine cover is jammed or if it squeaks when you open it, apply some graphite at the hinges. Graphite can be a little messy, but it’s worth some extra cleanup because it doesn’t absorb dirt and other contaminants like some of the oily lubricating sprays.

The next step in this RV maintenance process is to inspect the grill. To help keep the engine temperature efficient, the grill must allow plenty of air flow. To accomplish this, remove any leaves or bugs that are blocking the grill.

Inside the engine compartment, look for items that seem to be hanging down or not connected. Items like a wiring harness that may be low enough to be damaged by road debris while traveling down the road. Also look for wiring connections not connected and subject to moisture penetration.

Your pre-departure trip checklist—the list you need to check every day you venture out on the road—must include inspection on the following fluids: engine oil, transmission fluid, brake fluid, hydraulic fluid for slide rooms or leveling jacks, windshield washer fluid, and DEF is applicable.

If your vehicle has an engine mount electrical panel, this also should be part of every RV maintenance check. Be sure the seal on the panel is tight—otherwise, cold air will come in during the winter, and in summer, hot air will make it hard for your air conditioner to work properly.

As a final step in this RV maintenance procedure, check underneath for fluid leaks. An easy way to look for fluids is to put paper under your rig when you store it. By noting where the spots are, you can tell what part of the engine is leaking and needs to be repaired. You also can tell by the color of the spots—for instance, green or orange may indicate an antifreeze leak, red means hydraulic fluid, and brown means oil.