Some people think that just because your unit slows down when you apply your RV trailer brakes that they are all working properly, however this could be far from true.  A friend showed me a sure way to check to ensure each brake is doing its fair share of the work, by using a simple magnetic compass.

Have your helper hold the compass about three inches below the wheel hub, close enough to the rim without touching it.  Now, activate the trailer brake from inside the cab.  If the compass needle starts moving erratically, then that wheel brake is working.  Do the same with each wheel, ensuring the compass needle has settled down from the previous test before testing the next wheel.

If any of your RV trailer brakes magnets fail to move the needle, then that brake magnet is not doing its job.  In that case, either try to find the problem, or take it to your nearest RV technician to have them troubleshoot the problem.  If they all fail, check your brake control.  Remember to check the wiring and fuses, sometimes it can be just that simple and could save you a costly repair bill.

Oh, and don’t forget to put your compass back in your repair kit, since this is an excellent way to check other electromagnetic solenoid switches!  And, you never know when you might get lost in the boonies!

Tekonsha Voyager Brake Control 9030

This post explains a few things about RV How To – RV Tire Care, and if you’re interested in saving your tires and saving your wallet, then this is worth reading.

In addition to my motorhome, I also have a 30′ Dutchman trailer with practically no miles on it, but recently ha to replace the tires due to dry rot. The tires had great tread and yet were basically useless!  These tires are not cheap either.  They cost me $580 to replace all 4.  I have learned my lesson the hard way.  Ozone in the atmosphere and ultraviolet beams from the sun will reduce the lifespan of your tires.

Ozone in the atmosphere induces tires to dry rot and deteriorate, and ultraviolet beams from the sun cause it to happen faster. This is especially true of the tires sidewall. Visually, inspect your tires for cracks in the sidewalls. If you observe any damage have the tires inspected by a tire expert.

There are essentially 2 methods to protect your tires from these elements.

Covers – Keeping tires protected with covers that will obstruct the sun when not in use is a good idea.  These covers are available at most RV outlets.  They may also be available in Walmart, Target or other discount stores and are usually less expensive there.  They will run you about $20 per pair.

Storage – For long-term storage take off the tires and stow them in a cool dry space away from the sunshine.

10-Minute Tech, Vol. 1: More than 600 Practical and Money-Saving Ideas from Fellow RVers

RV How To Tip

Ok, the problem with commercial covers is that in time the same elements that ruin your tires will eventually ruin your commercial covers.  Expect to replace them every three to five years.

If you do not want to shell out $40 – $50 bucks for these commercial covers, Here is a relatively simple and cheap trick.  Large, heavy ply, lawn bags will cover the tires adequately and will only set you back a few dollars. They are cheap and you can cut them off whenever you move the RV and replace them when you get to your destination.  Buy these at Home Depot or Loews.  A large box will provide quite a few changes.

Simply place the bags over the tire before you set the trailer in place.  Back, or pull, the trailer up so that the tire rolls onto the plastic bags.  This will hold them in place during high winds.

I also recommend that you position a piece of wood between the earth and the tires. Make certain that the blocks of wood are bigger then the footprint of the tires.  This will keep your tires out of standing water.

Don’t make the same costly mistake I did.  Learn from this simple RV How To tip and many others that can save you time and money!

10-Minute Tech, Volume 2: Over 600 Time and Money Saving Ideas from Fellow RVers

10-Minute Tech, Volume 3: Over 600 All New Time and Money Saving Ideas from Fellow RVers

This RV How To blog is dedicated to all you RV Enthusiasts that have found little tricks and tips to help you enjoy your class A RV’s more with less cost.

As I incorporate some of these tips on my own RV, I will be sharing them with you and if you can think of any that might benefit our readers, please let me and the rest of your fellow Class A RV’rs in on your RV How To tech tips!