How to Store an RV on Jacks
- 1). Change all the fluids right before storage is to begin. New oil, coolant, transmission fluid and brake fluid will take longer to decompose and will help keep the inside of the engine and transmission from suffering from corrosion. Empty the gas tank as much as you can through siphoning or driving and then fill it up completely with new gas to prevent moisture from getting into the fuel system during storage.
- 2). Wash the RV thoroughly to remove any dirt and deposits. This helps to preserve the body of the vehicle. Some substances, such as bird excrement, are corrosive so you want to have them removed before storage so they don't eat through the paint.
- 3). Clean out the inside of the RV to remove dust and dirt. Leave a box of open baking soda inside to absorb any odors and make sure any fridges or cabinets are completely wiped out and emptied of any food items to prevent mold and bug infestation. Consider laying down rat traps just in case in you live in an area where rodents are a problem.
- 4). Park the RV in a location that is as level as possible. If you are parking on dirt or in a yard, lay down wood planks for the tires to prevent them from sinking into the ground. Place the leveling jacks on either wood or leveling pads as well and place them against the proper supports under the RV, which should be listed in the manual. The purpose of the jacks is simply to keep the RV level and not to lift the RV in the air. If the tires are no longer touching the ground, the jacks are too high.
- 5). Place tire covers over the tires to help prevent rotting. Extensive sunlight and heat will speed up the tire deterioration process but the covers help negate that.
- 6). Unhook the battery and keep it stored inside and off the floor. A wood block or bench is ideal for battery storage. Wipe it down with a rag and charge the battery fully with a charger. Check the battery levels monthly, adding water to it as needed and charging it when the charge starts to run low. Any individual batteries for devices inside the RV should also be removed. All power should be shut down and the breaker closed.
- 7). Check your tire pressure weekly with a tire gauge and re-inflate the tires with a pump as needed to keep them in good condition.