Securing Storage Compartment Struts
The screws used to attach the gas struts on my motorhome’s outside storage compartments kept coming loose. After replacing some of the screws with new screws that were slightly larger in diameter, I found that, because of the thin aluminum the screws were being put into, this was only a short-term fix.
The best way I’ve found to secure the brackets to the frame is to use rivets between the screws that are still tight. On the stripped-out holes, I replaced the screws with rivets. Should I need to replace the strut, I just drill out the rivet with the same size drill bit as I used for its installation. Some of the rivets are 6 years old and still going strong.
Frank Woythal, F291956, Andover, New York
Tile Installation Project
We have a 2007 Winnebago Adventurer that we purchased new. The carpet was a light beige, and it picked up every stain possible. After each trip I would shampoo the carpet, desperately trying to remove the stains and pet hair left by our dog and cat.
After 2007, it seems that all of the motorhome manufacturers got smart and began using tile in the main living areas. But when doing a tile replacement project, it is important to make sure the carpet does not come loose and bind the slideout.
With the help of our motorhome dealer, we mapped out a plan to replace the carpet with tile and not create a problem with the slideouts. We cut the carpet back as far as possible with the slideouts extended, but not the carpet under the slideout, since the carpet was needed there. We then stretched the carpet and tacked it down. We rolled the edge and tacked it down again. But at this point, with the movement of the slideout, the carpet still got caught. So we went to Home Depot and purchased metal edging and tacked that over the edge of the carpet. Now, we no longer have the carpet stains to contend with, and we also have a secure and trouble-free carpet edge.
Jim Stoodley, F389890, Hollywood, Florida
Engine Oil Dipstick Calibration
If you think your motorhome engine is consuming too much oil, are finding oil residue on your towed vehicle after each travel day, or just want to make sure you’re putting the proper amount of oil “” and not too much “” into your engine, you need to verify that your vehicle’s dipstick is measuring correctly.
First, check the owners manual or the engine manufacturer’s Web site for the oil capacity of your engine. At the next oil change, drain the oil and remove the old filter as usual. Reinstall the drain plug, install a new oil filter, and add the engine’s correct oil capacity less the number of quarts you would like between the “ADD” and “FULL” markings on the dipstick “” say, 2 quarts. Run the engine for a few minutes; shut it off; and wait until the oil has descended back into the pan (30 minutes to 1 hour). Pull the dipstick and use a file or Dremel tool to mark the new “ADD” level. Add the remaining oil, allow it to settle into the pan, and pull the dipstick again, this time putting the new “FULL” mark on it. This assures that the dipstick is giving you an accurate measurement of the oil that’s in your engine.
In many cases after performing this procedure, those who have had oil consumption or excessive oil “throwing” problems will notice that these issues disappear. Calibrating the dipstick applies to all motorhomes, old and new. When checking your oil, it is recommended that it be done in the morning before starting the engine when the oil has had all night to settle back into the pan. Do not add oil until the level reaches your new “ADD” mark. Finally, make a sticker to affix near the oil fill that states, “Oil Capacity Including Filter: XX Quarts.”
Brett Wolfe, F252125, League City, Texas
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