If you're new to the traveling lifestyle or you're looking to start camping, investing in a fifth wheel is a great way to go. Once you've found the perfect rig, though, it's important that you take proper care of it. Being new to fifth wheel ownership, you may not be sure quite where to start with this. Here are some tips to help you properly care for your fifth wheel so that you can enjoy many years of great adventures.

Maintaining the Water Tanks

Flush out the water system on a regular basis. Any time you're closing up the fifth wheel to travel or to store it, flush the water tanks. Run a bleach solution through it periodically to keep any bacteria at bay. This applies to both your fresh water system and the grey and black water tanks. Check all of the valves on a regular basis, too. It's important that the valves move freely. The more attentive you are to maintaining them, the better chances you'll have to keep them moving.

Monitoring the Undercarriage and Wheels

Every time you hitch up the fifth wheel, you should thoroughly test the brakes to be sure that they're responding properly. Twice a year, you'll need to make sure that the wiring is intact and free of damage. At the same time, look at the brakes for signs of wear that may require attention. Check the wheel bearings frequently as well.

Caring for the Tow Hitch

The tow hitch is a vital component of the fifth wheel camper. You should inspect the hitch thoroughly every time you're preparing to hitch it up. At least twice a year, you should go over it in detail to spot any damaged or missing pieces. At the same time, you can check all of the mounting hardware and the breakaway cable to make sure that they're all intact, secure and clean.

Inspecting the Exterior

Before you head out from a campsite or from your home, you should walk around the exterior of the fifth wheel to give it a thorough inspection. Check all of the vents and seals for structural integrity and cleanliness. The vents should never be clogged, so clean them out if there's any visible debris. Further, there should not be any visible leaks from the seals around the exterior of the trailer.

If your fifth wheel has a rubber roof, you can clean it with a gentle detergent and a soft bristle brush. You'll want to clean it a couple of times a year. Once it's clean, inspect it thoroughly to make sure the seams are all in good condition. You can also reseal it once a year or as needed.

With the tips presented here, you can help keep your fifth wheel in good shape and keep your family safe on the road. To learn more, contact Brad's Trailer Supply. 

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