Long-Term Storage; Winterization; Water System Winterizing - Fleetwood Flair Owner's Manual

52
Long-Term Storage
(Over 60 Days)
o
Perform all steps as required for short-term
storage.
o
Run engine to normal operating temperature.
Operate air conditioner to lubricate compressor
seals. Drain engine oil, replace filter, refill engine
with"fresh oil.
o
Remove windshield wiper blades and store inside
the motor home.
o
Charge and remove both the vehicle and auxiliary
batteries. Store them in a cool, dry place, and
check the charge and water level every 30 days.
Forbatteries with non-removable vent caps, check
the specific gravity of the electrolyte periodically
with a hydrometer or boost charge every three
months. If the specific gravity is being checked,
recharge the battery when it reaches 1.220. The
time it takes the battery to reach 1.220 depends
on its condition and the temperature. The colder
the storage area, the slower the battery will self-
discharge. A normal time between charges is
three months.
o
Remove, clean and replace air conditioner filters.
Cover the air conditioner shroud(s).
o
Cover the windows on the inside with foil, card-
board, paper, etc., to reduce curtain, drape, and
carpet fading.
o
Remove batteries in clocks or other battery-pow-
ered devices. -
o
During extended periods of storage, gasoline
may deteriorate due to oxidation. This can dam-
age rubber and other materials in the fuel system
such as carburetor, accelerator pump, diaphragms,
and carburetor inlet valves. It may also clog small
orifices. Commercially available gasoline fuel sta-
bilizers may be added yvhenever actual or ex-
pected storage periods exceed 60 days. Follow
the additive manufacturer's instructions. Operate
the vehicle regularly during the storage period to
mix and circulate the anti-oxidant agent through-
out the fuel system.
o
Check tire inflation pressures every 30 days.
Maintain maximum rated cold inflation pressure.
,,, I '
o
Check the sealant around all roof and body seams
and windows. Reseal if necessary. See "Sealant
Renewal" section.
o
Lubricate all locks and hinges as described in the
"MAINTENANCE" chapter.
o
Remove high grass or weed growth.
WINTERIZATION
Thoughtful planning and preparation for the winter
season can help eliminate equipmentfailures and break-
downs, and can extend the life of your motor home and
its systems. Your dealer can advise you concerning
specific winterization procedures and products for your
climate area or the areas through which you will be
traveling. Your dealer may also provide winterization
service for all appliances and systems in the motor
home. The following is a check list if you prefer to
perform these procedures yourself:
o
Check engine coolant level and antifreeze protec-
tion. Drain and flush engine cooling system and
add antifreeze to protect the system to the lowest
expected storage temperature or at least -20
0
F.
o
Service and winterize the generator (if equipped)
as outlined in the -generator operating manual
included in your Owner's Information Package.
o
Winterize the LP gas system. Your LP dealer or
service station will perform this for you.
o
Winterize all appliances as outlined in the individ-
ual operator's manuals.
o
Remove snow accumulations as often as possible.
WATER SYSTEM WINTERIZING
Read this section completely before performing
winterization.
o
Remove water purifier filter cartridge, if equipped,
and install the winterizing plug.
o
Drain the fresh water tank by opening the water
tank drain valve. Leave valve open.
CJ
Turn water pump on (12-volt power must be on).
~
Open a cold water faucet. When the flow of water
stops, turn the pump off.