Preparing a Montana Fifth Wheel for a Long Maiden Voyage

[LyndyD]

Hi, This is Wesley (son of mother/son team). We are preparing to retrieve our Montana from Iowa. A little concerned about our maiden voyage (its a long way from Iowa to Oregon). First maintenance before leaving Iowa will be inspect the brake shoes & drums and repack the wheel bearings. Any other maintenance recommendations?


Any recommendations on emergency roadside lighting, flares, cones, etc. appropriate for the rig? All inputs are greatly appreciated. Thank you for sharing your knowledge.

 

[Mikendebbie]

Check the date codes and condition of your tires…five year old tires are close to aging out. Look for surface crazing on the sidewalls. Check tread for even wear.

 

[DutchmenSport]

If you are anticipating a road break-down, then make sure you have either some road cones or road triangles to indicate a breakdown on the side of the road.

You did not specify the age of the camper, assuming it's not a new one, Mikendebbie post above is primary, check the tires.

You will not know until you actually hitch up, but before even pulling out of the drive way, check the brakes (brake check) and make sure they are operational. At a minimum, the trailer brakes should keep the vehicle from moving forward when the vehicle is in drive and the brake peddle is released at idle.

Make sure your tow vehicle has a trailer brake controller. And one thing to consider, (IF) the trailer looses brakes, is the tow vehicle big enough and heavy enough to stop both the tow vehicle and trailer in a panic stop?

I hope you enjoy your new rig, and I absolutely hope your maiden trip is flawless! Enjoy! Happy camping!

 

[Dfb]

Id stay for a few days to see everything works..

 

[jkxtreme]

Grease the wet bolts on the springs

 

[LyndyD]

Thank you all for your recommendations. Now the hunt for a propane/electric refrigerator. Wesley

 

[foldbak]

A 2005, id inspect every consumable item in the rig. Tires, brakes, bearings, suspension, etc. Id also check every exterior screw for tightness. Too much to list but spend a couple days and look at everthing. Safe travels. Dont forget the TV!

 

[Cat320]

Id stay for a few days to see everything works..

For sure....stay a few days in Iowa before you start travelling...you will learn more than the advice we put here.

 

[Daryles]

While inspecting your brakes, make sure the three wire clips are present on the actuation arm. If missing, the wire will rub on the drum and wear throuh (ask me how I know ).
Spare parts I carry, wheel bearings, races, grease seals, leaf spring, shackle bolts, bushing sleeves.
Basically parts needed to keep me mobile until the next town.

 

[LyndyD]

Thanks to all. You may or may not hear from us until we arrive (safely) in Oregon. Love this club!!!!

 

[Rondo]

If you ae looking for an RV refrigerator, check on Amazon. They have some new ones but depends on the size you need. We had a 2980 prior to our present unit and really enjoyed it. You didn't say if the unit has been stored under cover or if it has been sitting on concrete or on dirt. In either case, I would definitely check the tires especially since it is a 2005. Hopefully, whoever had it prior to you has kept up with the axles, brakes and tire procedures and kept inspected and up to date. Tires may look good but if 5old years or more they will need to be replaced with new ones and get a good brand so they will last for you. Good luck and if you have any further questions concerning your unit jump in here on the Forum and ask away. You will get good answers from here.

 

[Spartacus]

Welcome to the forum and safe travels, it looks like that they gave you some awesome information to get started, always feel free to ask questions it you not sure and there are no dumb questions.