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the tow vehicle and not void the Towable
Limited Warranty.
With these actual weights, it is now possible to
compare them against the Trailer Weight
Information label weight ratings to ensure you
are below the posted minimum ratings.
For more information
See also Sec. 9 Unit Care & Maintenance.
Read the axle OEM operator's manual.
F
S
T
IRST
HORT
RIP
After familiarizing yourself with the RV,
including going through test runs on the
systems and having the RV weighed, it is time
to take one or two short trips. The experience
gained can be priceless. We recommend an
overnight stay at a nearby campground. That
way it is more convenient if you need to go
back to get an item you forgot or didn't know
you would need. Otherwise, you may end up
spending time or money needlessly by
bringing along unused items that take up
space or trying to locate and purchase items
you hadn't counted on needing prior to leaving
your home on an extended trip in unfamiliar
territory. Not all RVers will need the same
equipment or supplies. For example, individual
needs and personal tastes differ, as does the
various climates and terrains you will be
traveling through with your RV. Remember if
most of your trips are planned for the summer
and your shake down trip is made during some
other season, there will be adjustments that
you will need to take into consideration.
Be sure to have a pen and notebook available
to write down items that you feel may be
needed in future travels, as well as noting the
equipment you feel you need to become more
comfortable using or learning how to operate
safely.
RV Departure Checklist
Following is a preliminary list of items that
need to be checked on your RV before leaving
your home or campsite. As you camp, you may
want to develop your own list tailored to your
PRE-TRAVEL INFORMATION
individual camping style in addition to the
checklist provided:
Check the area under the RV after
overnight parking and look for water or
other fluid leaks. If leaks are detected, find
the cause and correct it immediately.
Have someone observe the operation of
all exterior lights while you activate the
controls.
Check wheel lug nuts for tightness and
tires for proper air inflation pressure.
Examine the tires for excessive tread wear
or uneven wear patterns. Check for
stones, nails, glass or other objects lodged
in the tread. Inspect for tread cuts or
sidewall cracks.
Check the LP gas tank gauge to make
sure there is LP gas available.
Retract any awnings and secure them for
transport.
Close all the roof vents.
Disconnect any cable TV or phone
hookups and lower the TV antenna (if so
equipped).
Turn off the interior lights and appliances.
Secure any loose, heavy or sharp objects
in the RV or exterior compartments.
Disconnect the shore line power cord and
ensure it is stored correctly.
Fasten all interior and exterior doors
securely. Lock them (if applicable).
Make sure the fifth-wheel landing gear,
stabilizer jacks and entry step are
retracted to the travel position.
Walk around your RV one last time to
make sure everything is stored away and
the baggage compartments are closed
and locked.
Pull forward, clean the site (if applicable)
and check for forgotten items.
Secure and lock the entrance door.
SECTION 6
57
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