Some of the best RV maintenance tips for your diesel pusher motorhome are those that are the least practiced. To keep your RV running in tip-top shape, be sure to follow these simple maintenance tips.
1. Check the SCAs
A check of the Supplement Cooling Additives (SCAs) count of the engine coolant should be performed every year. Failure to maintain the correct levels can lead to corrosive bubbles forming on the outside walls of the engine cylinder sleeve.
Your Caterpillar or Cummins engine dealer will provide you with the necessary test strips to check the SCA levels. If the levels are low there is an additive that you can apply with a special coolant filter to adjust the levels.
2. Clean the Spark Arrester
After every 250 operating hours, the spark arrester in Onan diesel generator must be cleaned. Failure to do so can lead to exhaust smoke or even fire when the hot carbon deposits are exhausted onto dry gas.
Cleaning the spark arrester is simple. Remove the plug located in the muffler assembly. (Check your owner’s manual for the plug location). Start the generator and put it under load for at least 5 minutes. Carbon buildup in the arrestor will blow away while it’s running. Reinstall the plug and you are good to go.
3. Check the Air Filter
The age and operation of the coalescing air filter should be checked on a regular basis. If not correctly maintained air system issues or cold weather freezes up could occur. On average, a diesel motorhome air filter cartridge lasts for three years. The location of these cartridges is near the rear axle.
4. Maintain the Oil Level of the Wet Hubs.
Many diesel pushers have wet hubs (oil filled) on the front axle. The levels of the oil, as well as noting any outside leaks, should be checked monthly to prevent expensive repairs and bearing issues.
To check the oil level locate the Stemco seals that keep the oil inside the hub housing. Inspect the clear viewing window at the outside end of each seal and make sure the oil level is at the full mark. You may have to remove the trim cap from the center chrome to see the viewing window. The inside of the tires should also be checked for traces of oil on a regular basis.
Keeping up with these simple maintenance tasks and bringing your diesel pusher to be serviced on a regular basis ensures that it runs in top condition and is ready to roll down the road.
Source: Good Sam
