Whether your coach is to be used during the winter months or put up for storage, the chance it will be exposed to freezing temperatures or inactivity requires some preparation and maintenance attention.
Operating Coach in Cold Weather:
It is important to understand the interior water lines, fixtures, supply tank, pump and appliances are normally protected from moderate freezing temperatures, as long as the furnace remains in operation. Please keep in mind that your Motorcoach was not designed for prolonged use in sub freezing temperatures without implementing special precautions.
• Heating your coach requires an adequate supply of L.P. or diesel. Fuel tanks should remain as full as possible for extended cold weather trips.
• Pre-Heat your diesel engine before starting if it has cooled down overnight.
• When camping during cold weather select a sunny campsite over a shady one, near a wind break if possible.
• Park with either the front or rear of the coach into the wind if possible.
• Make reservations ahead to make sure the campground of preference is open.
• It is recommended that once each week both engine and coach batteries be fully charged. This is especially important in colder climates, due to their nature, batteries will eventually discharge if not used and recharged on a regular basis; also resistance to a charge can develop.
Extended Cold Weather Storage:
Winterizing of the domestic water system is a necessity when storing your coach around or below freezing temperatures. If your coach is exposed to freezing weather and has not been properly prepared it may be damaged by possible ice expansion.
• Water lines, water heaters, hydronic heating systems, icemakers, water filters, pumps and faucets etc. are at potential risk. (See your Foretravel Owners Manual or other component specific manual for more details).
• If power is unavailable at the storage location for an extended period, in order to minimize battery drain, turn off master disconnect switch (located by entry door). This master disconnect switch will turn off everything on the coach battery, except the L.P. /CO detectors. If you have a 2 or 3 way refrigerator this must be turned off individually.
• The Engine batteries are not affected by the master disconnect. If no power is available they should be charged fully and the ground cable disconnected. If power is available the boost switch should be activated weekly to maintain them.
• The coach should be stored with the fuel tank full to reduce possible condensation in the tank. For prolonged storage (60+ days), use an additive with an algaecide.
• Take steps to address possible rodent or pest infestation.
• Remove all perishable food from cabinets and refrigerator.
• Clean roof top air conditioner filters and cover if possible.
• Pull Shades, close blinds and clean the interior.
• Prepare generator for storage. If possible try running generator with a load on it at least a ½ hour per month.
• To keep the coach highway ready run the main engine at least ½ hour each month. Driving the vehicle at highway speeds once a month for 10 to 20 miles will help keep the mechanicals in good working order and also helps protect tires from non use damage.
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