RV Transmission Oil Change
While most transmissions are relatively low maintenance and only require attention every few years, it is important to make sure that you RV transmission is operating properly before you head off for your cross-country adventure. Otherwise, you may find yourself in quite the expensive pickle. If your transmission dies, your RV won't be moving and you'll be at the mercy of local services, which is a sure-fire way to derail your travel.
It is recommended to change your transmission fluid every 120,000 miles or five years, whichever occurs first -with normal use. However, this changes when high heat and climbing elevation is involved. These circumstances would lower the change rate to every 50,000 miles or so. When you need RV transmission repair, you'll need to make sure to visit a certified RV mechanic.
RV Transmission Fluid Change
A major problem with most vehicles is that drivers don't check the transmission fluid level to ensure there is an adequate amount -this is even more important when vehicles sit idle for long periods of time, which is common with RVs. Having a slow leak can be a major problem when your motorhome sits for long periods. Check your transmission fluid levels regularly, making sure that the fluid levels are correct as well as the color and smell is right. Transmission fluid should be red (reminiscent of Kool-Aid) and not have any smell. If the fluid is dark (like maroon or burgundy) or has a smell like burning, this indicates a problem!
Motorhome Repair Near Denver
If you are not confident in monitoring your own transmission fluid, you can have it done at the same time you have your RV oil change completed, we recommend you have your transmission checked at least every other oil change visit to ensure optimal performance. If you are looking for an RV repair shop in Fort Lupton, Colorado, look no further than Mericle RV! We are a full-service RV service and repair center. Our RV transmission oil change includes the transmission pan being dropped and cleaned and a new filter and gasket installed. The transmission fluid is then removed and 30 to 40 percent is replaced. We also offer a wide range of other RV and motorhome service and repair options including routine maintenance as well as customization and fabrications. Contact us for an estimate and to schedule your RV service today!
Preventative Maintenance Can Extend Your Adventures
Keeping up with routine RV engine monitoring and preventative maintenance will help keep your rig on the road longer. While performing routine maintenance may seem like it adds to downtime off the road and is a fee you don't want to incur, preventative maintenance is much quicker and less expensive than having your transmission fail and your engine consequently seizes up! One of the easiest things you can do to prevent a transmission failure is to monitor the transmission fluid yourself. Before you head out on the road, or at every few fuel stops, it is a good idea to check all of your RV's engine fluids. The transmission fluid should be filled to the proper level and be a beautiful red color. If it isn't, be sure to correct the problem before heading out to prevent any problems. Many motorhome travelers will have differing opinions about when to have your transmission serviced - fluid flush, filter changes, etc. - varying from a strict every other engine oil change, 30,000 miles, or once a year are the most popular opinions. However, it is best to consult your RVs maintenance manual, consult with an RV maintenance professional, and consider your personal usage.
Healthy RV Transmission Fluid Maintenance
Your RV will come equipped with an owner's manual which will help shed insight on recommended preventative maintenance schedules. If you purchase a used motorhome, you can track down and owner's manual from the manufacturer or online. Just like with your car, it is a good idea to keep up with these things to help prevent damage to your rig, keep you on the road, abs extend the lifespan of your investment. It is also important to consider a few other factors including how old the rig is, how much you use it, the engine's average temperature, the load you're pulling, and the terrain you're exploring. There is a significant difference between driving your 2015 Class-C motorhome through the plains of the midwest and hauling your ATVs behind your 1990 Class-A RV through the Rocky Mountains.
A good rule of thumb about transmission oil changes is to be mindful of the temperature of your engine and how it affects the transmission fluid. Here are the temperatures listed with the suggested RV transmission fluid change intervals.
- 225 degrees = 35,000 miles
- 250 degrees = 20,000 miles
- 275 degrees = 10,000 miles
- 300 degrees = 1,500 miles
- 325 degrees = 500 miles
If your rig is not already equipped with them, investing in a transmission cooler and temperature gauge will better help you maintain your RV transmission.
For all of your RV, motorhome, and camper transmission maintenance and repair needs in the Denver area - whether you're a local or your journey brings you through - contact the RV service experts at Mericle RV today. We can perform routine preventative maintenance or fix your failing transmission to get you back on your journey as quick as possible. Contact us or stop by the lot today!