Storage - Long Term - Monaco 2002 Diplomat Service Manual

• Careful placement of a small heat source in the interior will help
control moisture. Desiccate filter systems will help remove interior
moisture.
• If AC power is not available turn main battery disconnect switches OFF.
• If possible, store the motorhome inside a storage building.
• If stored outside, inspect all seams and seals for possible leakage.
• Store the motorhome with a full fuel tank to help against moisture
condensing at top of fuel tank.
• Vents and windows should be closed to prevent wind driven rain
entrance.
• Tires should be stored at maximum inflation pressure.
• A full interior inspection for water leaks should be made bi-monthly,
inspecting behind all cabinet doors and drawers.
Long term storage of the motorhome can be defined as leaving a
motorhome unattended for a period of thirty days or more. A motorhome
requires protection from the elements just as a house or a car would. When left
out in the environment without proper storage or maintenance, a motorhome,
house or car is vulnerable to the moisture and oxidation processes inherent in
the environment.
There are preventative measures which should be taken and preferable
situations to use when storing a motorhome. Such measures will aid in
protecting and preventing a motorhome from the damaging effects caused by
an accumulation of moisture.
NOTE: The natural process of moisture in the air condensing
will occur with temperature changes of 30º F or more in one
day. Humidity readings of 60% or greater will allow the accu-
mulated moisture to remain for extended periods of time.
If the motorhome is stored in a location where AC power is not available:
• Turn off all the appliances.
• Turn the battery cut-off switch to the OFF position.
• If possible, situate the motorhome so the batteries remain accessible.
This allows a battery to be charged or replaced without moving the
motorhome.
• Charge the batteries to a full state of charge.
• Turn the main battery disconnects to OFF.
• When stored outside, use the available DC volt meters to make a
quick reference check of the batteries while the motorhome is in
storage. If the motorhome is stored outdoors, solar panels may off-
set the parasitic loads.
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D I P L O M A T
Care & Maintenance
STORAGE
-
Long Term
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