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Old 11-21-2020, 01:30 PM   #1
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Spring Checklist

Hello all you Escape experts!

Since I solo, I like to write checklists for myself to help me remember all the little things... And since I forgot a few things on my first trip out last year.. I’m trying to write a new checklist for next Spring … I have a 2019 19E.

I’ve already got the basic stuff covered: de-winterizing the water system, checking the propane, testing the smoke and CO2 detectors, lubricating all the moving points (awning, stabilizing jacks, steps, hinges and locks).

Two things I want to add, and I’m hoping someone can share some very simple step-by-steps for me to add to my list:

(1) Clean the coils in the roof AC unit.

(2) Pack the wheel bearings.

I *know* these are things I should be doing annually.

Please bear in mind, I am a solo 5 ft. woman and NOT an engineer (but I am smart and not afraid to get my hands dirty)
Thanks in advance!
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Old 11-21-2020, 03:28 PM   #2
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Hello Linda,
Just to clarify your Escape is a E19, what model? As far as yearly, depends on how much use. I normally do my bearings when I get the yearly inspection, they tell me my bearing condition, so a wheel expert should be able to inform you. Never have cleaned any a/c coils and any Escape, not sure it is required. I'm sure otters will chime in....
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Old 11-21-2020, 03:44 PM   #3
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Even though I usually put my trailer away for the winter with a fresh coat of wax, during the Spring "rebirth" I do another coat of wax and carefully examine the outside for any winter damage.
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Old 11-21-2020, 03:58 PM   #4
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From a spreadsheet I made.
It’s generic but you could tailor it to your specific needs

Monthly maintenance

Run air conditioner
Tires & spare.Check pressure.




QUARTERLY MAINTENANCE
Test smoke detector
Test both CO detectors
Test LP gas detector
Inspect fire extinguisher
Water heater burner clean
Wash A/C filter
Lubricate door hinges Dry lube.
lubricate door latch Dry lube.
Grey/black valves. Silicon spray.
Battery electrolyte
Battery. Inspect for corrosion
Entry steps. Lube (grease)
Windows. Clean dirt from tracks
Inspect all seams for cracks
Water heater. Relief valve.
Refrigerator. Check gas connections
Batteries charged :Jumper/Flashlights

Run refigerator
Run microwave oven
Operate exhaust fan
Test water leak alarm

ANNUAL MAINTENANCE

Generator. See Manual
Wash awning.
Exterior compartments. Lube seals
Smoke/CO/Wat.Alarm, new batteries
TV antenna.Lube. Machine oil.
Toilet ball valve. Clean.Lube.
Lube wheel bearings
Wax exterior
Change batteries in TPMS system
Refrigerator-see Owners Manual
Check for rust.
Spray for bugs
Flush HW tank
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Old 11-21-2020, 04:35 PM   #5
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On our 2013 Casita , I cleaned the coils & washed / vacuumed out the A/C unit every 2 to 3 years plus washed or replaced the A/C filters semi annually
As long as I had to remove the plastic A/C shroud , I cleaned the shroud thoroughly , gave it a coat of Krylon spray paint and replaced the mounting bolts with SS bolts and SS washers
My 2018 Escape will be getting the same treatment come spring
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Old 11-21-2020, 05:37 PM   #6
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Quote:
Originally Posted by Lynda View Post

(2) Pack the wheel bearings.

I *know* these are things I should be doing annually.
Unless you put far more miles on the trailer than average there's no need to pack the wheel bearings annually.

It's a good thing to know how to do and it gives you a chance to inspect the brakes for wear but in my humble opinion some folks repack their wheel bearings far more often than needed.

Ron
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Old 11-21-2020, 06:22 PM   #7
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I agree with Ron

Ever repacked your multiple bearings in your auto?


Go with the manufacturer's rec's, but annually has got to depend on miles traveled.


And good luck catching a simple U-tube video on how to do it.


Some folks have a superabundance of MOXIE and can learn to repack wheel bearings as novices; it sure ain't rocket science, but do learn as much as you possibly can before doing the deed. Or have a trusted mechanic or shop do it for you.


It ain't rocket science, as I noted, but there are races, bearings, the correct fit of all plus the rim and tire...it helps to have either experience or a trusted gear head along for the ride.
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Old 11-22-2020, 09:49 AM   #8
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Thanks to all who responded:
I know everyone had opinions, but I particularly value yours.
Here's what I just learned from you:
(1) I probably don't need to clean my AC coils -- the type of camping I generally do in national parks with no electric hook-ups, I don't run my AC that often anyway..
(2) Since I don't put an extraordinary amount of miles on my trailer, I probably don't need to pack the bearings for quite a few years -- and when I do, I'll take it to my mechanic and let him do it.

Thanks again for your thoughts, much appreciated.
Lynda~
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Old 11-22-2020, 10:45 AM   #9
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I probably don't need to pack the bearings for quite a few years -- and when I do, I'll take it to my mechanic and let him do it.
Lynda~

That's what I do, although I did repack wheel bearings on my tent and boat trailers. Your mechanic will likely have a solvent tank, compressed air and his hands are probably already dirty.
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Old 11-22-2020, 06:56 PM   #10
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Lynda,
Since you likely do not know the maintenance history of your trailer, I'd suggest you get your wheel bearings re-packed and a brake inspection at the same time - before spring camping starts. Best would be if your mechanic would let you watch .... offer to pay him for the extra time it takes him to answer your questions (money well spent!). A pan of brownies might help too.

Its hard to get too much education .... a great confidence builder!

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Old 11-23-2020, 01:07 PM   #11
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Tom:
Actually, I DO know the maintenance history on my trailer: ETI delivered it to me brand new in June 2019. I've taken it out camping about 6 times since then. All local trips about an hour from home, but in the Smoky Mountains, so some mountain driving. And no maintenance service since she came from the factory.

Thanks for the advice about learning from the mechanic. My mechanic adores me so I think he'd work with me

Just so I'm clear... the mechanic who works on my Jeep Grand Cherokee (not the Jeep dealer) should be capable to work on the trailer brakes?
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Old 11-23-2020, 01:38 PM   #12
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That's pretty low mileage and it doesn't need much maintenance yet, certainly not wheel bearings.

Yes, any mechanic could service your brakes. Drum brakes have been around for a very long time. The electric part is different from automotive brakes but I'm positive any mechanic could adjust the brakes and do the wheel bearing when the time comes.

Ron
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Old 11-23-2020, 05:03 PM   #13
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I would add to these lists to check the operation of the breakaway system. This is described in the Owner’s Manual.
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Old 04-01-2021, 07:11 PM   #14
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Hello everyone, some great advice on recommended maintenance intervals and items to watch for; I am still a newbie in many aspects of this trailer and so highly value this advice. I have a question regarding the use of my mechanic to service the wheels on my 5TA; if I drop off the trailer and leave it parked at his garage will he be able to get the wheels off or do I need to leave it hitched to my truck?

I've got about 10-13000 miles on it now and so I want to inspect breaks and bearings. Thanks.
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Old 04-02-2021, 09:49 AM   #15
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Quote:
Originally Posted by marsman View Post
Hello everyone, some great advice on recommended maintenance intervals and items to watch for; I am still a newbie in many aspects of this trailer and so highly value this advice. I have a question regarding the use of my mechanic to service the wheels on my 5TA; if I drop off the trailer and leave it parked at his garage will he be able to get the wheels off or do I need to leave it hitched to my truck?

I've got about 10-13000 miles on it now and so I want to inspect breaks and bearings. Thanks.
Good question to ask the garage, if they need your tow to move it around, you may want to go elsewhere.......
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