Are you a proud vintage RV owner looking for tips on how to care for your beloved vehicle? Or do you love the look of vintage RVs but are not quite sure if you are prepared to take on the job of owning one? Look no further! Vintage RVs, or recreational vehicles manufactured over 25 years ago, require extra care and maintenance due to their age. However, with the right approach, vintage RV owners can keep their vehicles in top tier condition and ensure that they look and run their best for many years to come.
RVT has collected some tips on how to care for vintage Class A, vintage Class C, or other classic RVs, including guidelines for regular cleaning and maintenance, tips for repairs, and recommendations for inspections and proper storage solutions. With these tips in mind, vintage RV owners can enjoy their ride with plenty of peace of mind. Keep reading to learn more!
1. Regular cleaning
Regular cleaning is essential for vintage RVs to maintain their appearance, prevent rust and corrosion, and extend the life of their fine components. To clean your vintage RV, use a soft cloth or sponge with a gentle, all-purpose cleaner. Avoid using harsh chemicals that may damage the paint job or components in your RV. Clean from top to bottom, inside and out, as needed. This frequency will depend on how often you use your RV, and will be less frequent for those who only use their vintage RVs a few times per year but more frequent for those who live in theirs part-time or travel often on the weekends.
2. Preventative maintenance
In addition to cleaning, preventative maintenance on vintage travel trailers or other classic RVs is essential to keep them running smoothly. For vintage motorhomes, this includes checking the batteries and other components at regular intervals, replacing fluids as needed, and inspecting hoses for any signs of wear or tear. For vintage trailers, preventative maintenance entails regularly inspecting the axles, wheels, brakes, and such, in addition to interior maintenance for any kind of retro RV. Vintage RV owners should also perform preventative maintenance on their rig prior to each use, such as filling the tires with air and checking the brake lights. Following these steps can help owners to avoid costly repairs down the road and ensure that their vintage RV runs as safely and smoothly as possible for years to come.
3. Regular inspections
Regular inspections of vintage RVs are necessary to ensure that all components and systems are functioning correctly. Vintage RV owners should either thoroughly inspect their rig or consider having their rig professionally inspected by a qualified technician at least once per year, or even more often if they use the vehicle frequently. During an inspection, owners or mechanics should be looking for any signs of wear and tear, damage due to age, and other potential issues. This will help to identify any problems with the RV before they become costly repairs, helping owners to save time and money in the long run.
4. Repair components
During routine inspections, if vintage RV owners spot any cracks, rust spots, tears in fabric, or other repair needs on their rig, they should address these issues immediately to prevent further damage and ensure that their RV maintains its value. For major repairs, owners should consider seeking professional help from an experienced vintage RV repair specialist.
5. Proper storage
Proper storage is essential to protect classic RVs from the elements and keep them in top condition over time. Vintage RV owners should store their vehicle in a sheltered area with adequate ventilation when not in use. Depending on the climate, classic RVs may need to be winterized to prevent freezing and damage from cold weather. It is also important to check on the vehicle periodically during storage, even if it isn’t being used, to make sure everything is in working order before hitting the road again.
Overall, vintage RVs require a bit more attention than recently-manufactured recreational vehicles to ensure they look and ride their best. Regular cleaning and maintenance come with the job of owning and caring for any RV, but these elements of ownership are even more pertinent in vintage rigs. In addition, routine inspections, repairs, and proper, covered storage will even further extend the life of your precious rig for years to come. By following these tips, vintage RV owners can enjoy their ride with confidence, knowing their rig is still equipped to handle the road.
Thanks for reading! We hope this article has helped you better understand the upkeep of vintage RVs and that it helps to keep vintage RVs in tip-top shape. Whether you’re looking for a vintage RV or a newer one, check out the latest listings on RVT.com. Happy travels!
By Sam Moon