Winnebago Adventurer 2023 MAINTENANCE AND STORAGE User Manual

MAINTENANCE AND STORAGE

SEALANTS – INSPECTION AND GENERAL INFORMATION

Water is a recreational vehicle’s worst enemy when it is allowed to enter where it is not intended. Sealants perform a very important function and should be inspected closely and maintained regularly. Winnebago Industries® utilizes many different types of sealants. Refer to the “Sealants Call-Out Sheet” provided in your InfoCase for further information.
Sealants, in general, do not have “set” lifetimes. Varying environmental factors affect the pliability and adhesiveness of sealants.

You or your dealer must:

1. Inspect all sealants, a minimum of every six months.
2. Inspect the moldings, windows, clearance lights, exterior compartment doors, and all their attachments.
3. Also, inspect weather seals around entrance door, etc., and if necessary, have a dealer replace them immediately.
4. Check for cracks, voids, gaps, breaks, adhesion, and any sign of physical deterioration.

NOTE: Proper sealant inspection includes not just visual observation but running a finger along sealant seams to verify proper adhesion to the surface. Any loosened areas must be replaced.

• Have the sealant replaced if you notice any of the above. Your local Winnebago Industries dealer has the correct and necessary parts and experience to help you maintain your sealants. See “Sealants Call-Out Sheet” provided in your InfoCase. Always use the same type sealant that was removed.
  Immediately have dealership check moldings, windows, and exterior attachments for leak source if you notice water inside of unit.

NOTICE
Sealants must be inspected every 6 months and replaced if necessary.

ROOF

WARNING
STAY OFF ROOF. Surface may be slippery. Falling could result in death or serious injury.

The roof is made of Thermo-Panel materials like the walls and floor. It will support the weight of an average adult for periodic maintenance or repair of the roof or roof mounted components.
Walking or working on the roof should be left to qualified service personnel using proper safety equipment in a safe environment. You should only walk or work on the roof if you are qualified and have created a safe environment.
For your safety, it is not recommended that you store or carry items on the roof.
Always have damage to the roof area repaired immediately. Damaged or detached sealant around the vents, air conditioner, body-to-roof seams, etc., should also receive immediate attention. Delaying these repairs may allow water leakage and result in damage to interior ceiling and body panels, upholstery, etc., which is not covered by the limited warranty (see” New Vehicle Limited Warranty” provided at the beginning of this manual).

UNDERCARRIAGE

Buildup of mud and dirt under the body of the vehicle can cause damaging rust or corrosion on steel or aluminum parts and can add needless weight to the vehicle. This, in effect, reduces the amount of cargo you can carry and remain within GVWR and GAWR limits. Corrosive materials, such as those used for ice and snow removal and dust control, can also accumulate on the underside of a vehicle. These materials should be removed by flushing the undercarriage regularly with water, especially horizontal surfaces, cavities, and other areas where mud and other deposits may collect.

EXTERIOR AUTOMOTIVE PAINT FINISH

The exterior finish of your motorhome is fully or partially finished with the highest quality automotive paint and clearcoat.
Follow these precautions to keep the finish looking its best and preserve maximum gloss and durability.

Parking

• Avoid parking under trees – When this happens you should rinse the bird droppings and tree sap off as soon as possible. Tree sap is a form of sugar and will dissolve after a couple of rinses. Bird droppings can eat into a painted surface if left unattended and need removed as soon as possible. Lukewarm soapy water can help speed up the cleaning process.
  Avoid parking near salt spray – When this happens you need to rinse off the salt mineral residue to minimize the corrosiveness of the salt.
  Avoid parking near factories with heavy smoke or industrial fallout – Industrial fallout can eat into your exterior finish when dew or rain mixes with it to create nitric or sulfuric acid that gets magnified by the intensity of the sun. As the water evaporates, the acid becomes more powerful and attacks the painted surface.
  Rinsing and washing the surface helps remove the fallout and neutralize the acid. After the initial 60-day cure stage, a coat of wax or polish can help protect the surface from these types of contaminates.
• Do not scrape ice or snow from the painted surface. Brush off gently with a soft-bristled snow brush – avoid being forceful with the brush.
  If brush scratches show after the motorhome thaws out, it may be possible to remove them by hand waxing with a silicone-free liquid wax.
  Avoid covering painted surface. When paint is covered (especially in outdoor conditions), water may appear between the cover and the motorhome due to rapid temperature fluctuations. The water may vaporize under certain conditions and migrate into the painted surface, possibly resulting in blisters and/or bubbles in the paint. These blisters/bubbles are not covered under warranty.
  Covering your motorhome is at owner’s risk.

Driving

• Avoid driving on gravel roads.
  Rinse off bugs and bird droppings with water daily.
  Antifreeze, fuel, or windshield/window solution spilled on the painted surface should be rinsed off immediately with water and allowed to air dry. Wiping dry with a towel may create fine scratches due to the solvent nature of these types of fluids.
  Fuel cannot be diluted and dissipated with water. It must be removed with a mineral spirit type cleaner (such as SEAFOAM Bugs-B-Gone, or equivalent) or a silicone-free spray wax and microfiber cloth to remove the stain left by fuels.
  Ensure that all motorhome fluids (such as gas, oil, grease, antifreeze, transmission fluid, brake fluid, etc.) are completely wiped off of painted surfaces. Failure to comply may cause the paint to blister and/or peel.

NOTE: When driving in wintry conditions, the road surface may be covered with heavy salts or small rocks to improve traction.

These types of road conditions may cause surface damage to your motorhome. If possible, it is best to avoid these types of exposures. However, if you do use your motorhome under these types of conditions, you may want to consider, among other things, washing both the undercarriage and the body of your motorhome after exposure to these types of conditions.

Washing
Commercial vehicle wash facilities should be strictly avoided! They will scratch your motorhome!

Truck-style wash centers have high-pressure wands that emit higher than necessary water pressures and the brushes are very aggressive.
Most truck wash brushes are made from a heavy plastic for durability and are under heavy pressure. They are designed to clean heavy road films on semi trailers and are often dirty. They are not designed for custom painted motorhomes and they will scratch the clearcoat finish. Many times these scratches can penetrate the clearcoat finish, possibly causing delamination and/or other paint related issues that are not covered under warranty.

• Wash your motorhome with cool or lukewarm water using a quality automotive detergent that does not contain bleach solution. Most auto stores offer car wash detailing soaps that are similar and do not have bleach in the formulation (such as Meguiars #62). Never use a bristled brush or broom to wash the painted surface. This will cause scratches in the finish. Using a microfiber cloth, mitt, or mop is strongly recommended. Be sure your cloth or applicator is clean. A dirty applicator can scratch your motorhome.

Washing Procedure

• Rinse area to be washed with cold water to remove surface residue. Ensure you are not in direct sunlight.
  With area to be washed still wet from the rinse, use the recommended soapy mixture to clean the area. To avoid scratching painted surfaces, a microfiber cloth, mitt, or mop is strongly recommended to apply soapy water.
  Rinse washed area before soap evaporates.
  Dry the rinsed area before the water evaporates.

NOTE: Avoid aiming water flow from a hose or spray from high-pressure washing equipment into any appliance intake, as damage or difficulty in operating appliances may occur.

• After washing the motorhome, carefully inspect sealant around window frames, vents, and any other joints that may have loosened or separated. See “Sealants – Inspection and General Information” at the beginning of this section for details.

Bug Removal
Rinse any loose debris off with water and allow the remaining residues to soak and soften. Use soap and water to wash the residue, then rinse.

NOTE: You may wish to repeat and leave soap on longer than normal to help with softening hardened residue.

1. For more stubborn areas, use an ammonia-based glass cleaner followed by washing with warm soapy water, then rinse.
2. Remember to use microfiber towels during this process to help avoid scratches.
3. If this does not work, as a last resort, use a bug removal product (like SEAFOAM Bugs-B-Gone, or equivalent) in a shady area and follow the directions on label.
4. Ensure cleaner is completely wiped off of painted surfaces. Failure to comply may cause the paint to blister and/or peel.

Polishing and/or Waxing

NOTE: When your motorhome is new or has been repainted for any reason, no polish or wax should be applied to the finish until after a 60-day cure cycle at temperatures higher than 60 degrees for 60 days. Failure to observe this precaution could void your paint warranty.

• We recommend a silicone-free polish with an orbital machine and terry cloth applicator. Liquid waxes are easier to apply and bring to a gloss with fewer residues.

Inspection
A motorhome exterior is subjected to many physical forces and environmental conditions. While the motorhome is parked, it is exposed to climate and weather extremes and other environmental conditions. While in operation, it is subjected to various twisting and flexing forces caused by routine cornering and turning, and by uneven road surfaces, such as bumps, potholes, railroad tracks, and parking lot entrances.
Inspect the exterior fiberglass shell periodically for cracks which may represent a threat to the integrity of the fiberglass.
Minute cracks in the surface (commonly referred to as “spider cracks” or “hairline cracks”) caused by normal flexing of the fiberglass exterior are normal and typically pose no threat to the integrity of the motorhome other than appearance.
However, if a crack has opened up and the weave of the cloth is visible, this does represent a threat to the integrity of the fiberglass and must be repaired or covered as quickly as possible to avoid penetration by moisture, especially in freezing climates.
If the fiberglass has been damaged and contains cracks, tears, or holes, use plastic sheeting and duct tape, if necessary, to prevent moisture from damaging the sidewall material or the interior of the motorhome.
Protective Film

–If Equipped
Your motorhome may be equipped with a protective film to defend against everyday road hazards. This film creates a barrier against bugs, road grime, bird droppings, and other harmful elements.

Further Information
See the manufacturer’s information provided in your InfoCase for complete care and maintenance instructions.

EXTERIOR GRAPHIC CARE

The pressure-sensitive graphics on your vehicle require very little maintenance. In order to allow the graphics to have the longest life possible, the following steps should be taken.

1. Wash graphics with plain soap and water or any car wash detergent. Rinse thoroughly.
2. High pressure water spray may loosen or damage graphics. Keep spray nozzle at least 1 1/2 feet from the edge of the graphics.
3. Test any cleaning solution on a small section of graphic before using.
4. Never use aromatic solvents such as acetone,
5. M. E.K., toulene, paint thinner or lacquer thinner on graphics. Solvents may soften the vinyl and smear colors.
6. Gasoline or other fuels spilled on graphics should be rinsed off immediately with water.
7. Do not apply paint or clearcoat over the graphics.
   Do not apply wax over the graphics, especially wax containing petroleum distillates. Wax that has dried along the edge of a graphic can be removed with cotton swabs after softening it with isopropyl alcohol. Rinse area thoroughly after cleaning.

PLASTIC PARTS – CLEANING

Many parts in your vehicle, such as the dash, exterior light lenses, and certain exterior body panels are made of high-impact plastic materials that can be damaged by wiping with solvents or improper cleaning products. Always try cleaning plastic parts with the mildest cleaners first and work your way up to stronger cleaning products. Use the following cautionary lists as a guide when selecting cleaning products to use on plastic parts.

NOTICE
Do not use citrus-based cleaners on polycarbonate finishes. Citric compounds will damage the high-gloss surface, causing it to appear dull or “flat”. Always test a cleaning product on a hidden area to be sure it will not cause damage to the appearance of the part.

Here is a list of mild cleaners that may be used safely:

1. Car washing soap and water
2. Glass cleaners without ammonia
3. Mineral oil
4. Multipurpose cleaners (such as Fantastik®, Formula 409®, etc.)

The following products, compounds, or solvents must be wiped off immediately to avoid damage:

1. Ammonia
2. Brake fluid
3. Bathroom basin, tub, and tile cleaners
4. Chlorine
5. Ethyl alcohol
6. Isopropyl (rubbing) alcohol
7. Kerosene or gasoline
8. Naphthalene
9. Pine-type household cleaners

Do not use cleaners containing the following products, compounds, or solvents. These products will damage the finish.

1. Acetic acid
2. Acetone (nail polish remover)
3. Aromatic solvents (lacquer thinners)
4. Benzene
5. Butyl alcohol

EXTERIOR LIGHTS

Most Winnebago Industries® vehicles have polycarbonate lenses on exterior lamps, which are very sensitive to a variety of chemical solvents and cleaners.
Use only soap and water to clean exterior lamp lenses, especially headlights.
Contact with certain chemicals can cause etching, “crazing” or cracking of the lens, which can significantly reduce the lens clarity and effectiveness of the lamp and may require replacement of the complete lamp housing. Some popular citric acid cleaners may cause polycarbonate lenses to become “hazy” or “foggy”. Do not use a pressure washer to clean headlights. Inspect and operate the lights regularly to confirm proper operation and mounting condition.

INTERIOR SOFT GOODS

We recommend a weekly routine of vacuuming all fabrics and carpet throughout the motorhome to prevent an accumulation of dirt, which can detract from the appearance and shorten the life of carpet and fabrics.

Fabric Upholstery
Some fabrics used in this motorhome may contain fire retardant and lightfastness additives, which can be damaged by the use of improper cleaning products. Some water-based household cleaning products are not formulated for use on fabrics and may cause excessive shrinkage or fading. Always test any cleaning product on a hidden area of fabric before using on visible areas. For best results, fabric cleaning should be referred to a professional carpet and upholstery cleaner.

NOTE: To minimize fading of upholstery, carpets and other interior fabrics caused by excessive sunlight, the drapes, blinds, or shades should be closed when the motorhome is parked for an extended period of time.

WARNING
When cleaning upholstery and fabric, do not use lacquer thinner, nail polish remover, laundry soaps, or bleach. Never use carbon tetrachloride, gasoline, or naphthalene for any cleaning purpose. These materials may cause damage to the material being cleaned and most are highly flammable, posing risk of injury due to fire.

Leatherette

–If Equipped
Leatherette materials are easy to care for and require no recommended maintenance other than regular cleaning.

To clean, only use:

1. Mild soap and water
2. For stubborn spots, use alcohol-based solutions such as Fantastik® or Formula 409®
3. To disinfect, use a 5:1 bleach/water solution
4. Always rinse with clean water
5. Allow to air dry

Vinyl Fabrics (including ceiling)

–If Equipped
Vinyl should be cleaned with a soft, damp
cloth, and a mild detergent only. Do not use solvents. Solvents may damage the surface of the vinyl.

Draperies, Curtains, and Bedspreads
These items may be woven from a variety of fabrics. We recommend that these be professionally dry cleaned only. A five percent shrinkage may occur when you have these items dry cleaned.

General Stains
As with any stain or contamination, the quick response is the best, especially when done in conjunction with the proper cleaner for the type of stain.

CABINETRY – CLEANING

Wooden items may be cleaned with a soft cloth and a good quality wood finish cleaning product.
Vinyl simulated wood panels may be cleaned with a mild, water-based cleaner and a soft cloth. Do not use solvents on vinyl wood panels.
NOTE: Many cabinetry and furniture items throughout this motorhome are constructed either partially or completely of real hardwoods. Because of natural variations in woodgrain density, slight differences in stain hue may exist between one item and another. This is the distinctive character and beauty of real wood.

DECORATIVE VINYL WALL PANELING – CLEANING

Decorative Vinyl Wall Paneling may be cleaned with mild detergent and warm water. The soap product should contain no abrasives, and the use of a soft cloth or sponge with the cleaning liquid should help preserve the finish of the vinyl.
Do not use bleach, cleaning agents with solvents or harsh chemicals, oil based spray cleaners, or other multipurpose cleaners such as Fantastik® or Formula 409® as they could damage the vinyl surface.

SOLID SURFACE COUNTERTOP – CORIAN®

Care and Maintenance
You can easily maintain the beauty of your countertop with little effort, under most circumstances, by using warm soapy water or an ammonia-based cleaner (not window cleaner) then rinse and wipe dry. You can also use liquid or gel-type cleaners containing bleach. Because the material is nonporous, stains cannot penetrate below the surface and will nearly always disappear using these cleaning methods.
If a stain has dried on, allow the cleaner or soapy water time to soften the area, after which the stain will wipe off. If the stain is not water-base or oil-base material, you may need to gently remove it using a plastic scraper (disposable plastic knife for example) followed by normal cleaning methods described above.

You may want to scrub the entire surface periodically. Do this lightly and evenly with a mild abrasive powdered or liquid cleaner.
Always use a cutting board rather than slicing foods directly on your countertop. The underside of one of your sink covers will provide an easily accessible cutting surface. This will keep your countertop looking its best and minimize care efforts. (An occasional sanding with a medium grade (120 grit) sandpaper will remove any cut marks accumulated on the sink cover bottom).
To remove cuts and scratches, use a more aggressive cleaning powder such as Comet®, a moistened steel wool soap pad, or green scouring pad. We recommend that you finish the entire surface using the same cleaning material and scrubbing method to maintain a uniform appearance.

If you prefer a glossier look, follow up with a good quality furniture polish or a liquid automotive wax (non-cleaner type).
Use trivets and “hot pads” under hot cooking pans. Do not set hot pots or pans directly from the stove or oven onto the counter. The solid surface material is extremely heat resistant, but sudden contact by a very hot material with a cold countertop surface could cause a crack that would need to be repaired. Likewise, concentrated high heat sources in a small area, such as a crock pot or an electric griddle may cause a crack. We strongly recommend using a trivet under these. Also, do not allow candles to burn directly on the counter surface.
Avoid paint remover or oven cleaner. The solid surface material is also resistant to most chemical substances but exposure to some harsh chemicals and solvents such as these can cause damage that would need professional repair or replacement. If one of these materials does spill or drip onto the counter surface, wipe it up immediately to avoid damage.

STAINLESS STEEL APPLIANCES

–If Equipped
Care and Maintenance
You can easily maintain the beauty of your stainless steel appliances with little effort, under most circumstances, by performing the following recommendations.
Typically, excellent results can be obtained by washing stainless steel with mild dishwashing liquid and hot water, followed by rinsing thoroughly and drying with a soft cloth. Drying is particularly important if the tap water is very hard and leaves scale deposits. Stainless steel does not deteriorate due to frequent cleaning, so proper cleaning can be performed whenever necessary. For more stubborn stains, perform the following procedures for your stainless steel appliances to start shining again.

Scale
To remove the scale left by water, simply use a multipurpose cream detergent and a soft cloth. The thicker scale may be removed by generously applying 25% vinegar and hot water solution to the stain. Rinse thoroughly with a sodium bicarbonate and water solution, then follow up by rinsing with water. Clean carefully.

Oil and Grease Stains
To remove oil and grease stains, use a mild dishwashing liquid and hot water. Rinse thoroughly with clean water and dry with a soft cloth. For more stubborn stains, ethyl alcohol, acetone, or another non-halogenated solvent may be used with care.

Stubborn Dirt and Burnt Grease
Use a multipurpose cream detergent and a soft cloth.

Coffee and Tea Stains
Prepare a sodium bicarbonate solution and hot water. Apply generously to stain and let sit for 15 minutes. Rinse thoroughly and dry with a soft cloth.

Rust Stains
Apply a multipurpose cream detergent and rub it delicately with a soft cloth. If the stain persists, it may be necessary to apply a stainless steel-specific product.

Fingerprints
Use a mild dishwashing liquid and warm water. Rub delicately with a soft cloth. Window cleaner may also be used.

Scratches
Apply a stainless steel-specific detergent/polisher and buff with a soft cloth.

Important “Don’ts”

1. Do not use hydrochloric acid or any other detergents containing chlorides on stainless steel.
2. Do not use abrasive powder detergents that could ruin the surface finish.
3. Do not use wool, abrasive brushes, or tools that have previously cleaned other metals, because as well as scratching the surface, they can generate contamination and unattractive stains.
4. Do not use silver cleaners.

SINK – STAINLESS STEEL

Care and Cleaning Instructions
The stainless steel sink can usually be cleaned with water and soap or detergent using a soft cloth or sponge.

1. Rinse thoroughly with warm water and wipe dry quickly to avoid spots and streaks.
2. For stubborn stains, use a mild abrasive cleanser like Soft Scrub®, Comet®, etc. Work in the direction of the “grain” of the brushed finish lines.
3. Never use steel wool. Particles of steel from the wool pad can embed into the sink surface, then become rusty and unsightly.
4. Avoid contact with full-strength bleaches, household chemicals, and acid-based cleaners. If this happens, rinse and wipe dry quickly.
5. Salt, mustard, and mayonnaise can cause pitting if left on the steel sink surface. If spilled, clean and rinse immediately.
6. A high iron content in the water (hard water) may result in a brown or rust-colored stained appearance. If noticed, dry towel sink after each use.
7. Do not use rubber mats in the sink bowl. Material trapped under mats can complicate cleaning.

NOTE: Improper use may damage this product and void the warranty.

RANGE AND REFRIGERATOR

For care and appearance maintenance of the range and refrigerator, refer to the appliance manufacturer’s operation and maintenance manuals included in your InfoCase.

VINYL FLOORING

Care and Maintenance
You can easily maintain the beauty of your vinyl flooring with little effort, by following these recommendations:

• Sweep or vacuum floor daily (use a vacuum without a beater bar head.) Remove loose dirt with a soft brush or Swiffer® type product.
  For more intense cleaning, use a non-abrasive cleanser, such as Mr. Clean®. Rinse with clean water.

NOTE: Floor cleaners containing waxes, brighteners, or gloss agents are not recommended.

• Regular cleaning with solvent-based chemicals may adversely affect the topcoat performance.
  Do not use undiluted bleach or leave a dilution of bleach on the floor for longer than one hour.
• Vinyl flooring is extremely durable and long lasting. It is normal for the floor to show some denting and dimpling where furniture sets due to the soft nature of the material. The dents are not permanent and will come out over time.

Maintenance Tips
Install protection (such as pads or casters) on furniture with legs or sharp edges. This protection should not contain bitumen, which may cause brown stains.

NOTE: Faulty pads and casters should be removed and replaced.

1. Burning cigarettes and matches can cause damage to the flooring.
2. Use doormats (that do not contain bitumen) to keep out most of the dirt and dust.
3. Remove spills immediately with a damp cloth, followed by rinsing with clean water.
4. The use of stiletto heels is not recommended, as they may cause permanent damage to the flooring.
5. Protect flooring from prolonged direct sunlight exposure.

Treatment of Stains
Acids, alkali, alcoholic beverages, coffee, soft drinks, ketchup, fruit, fruit juices, food, vegetables, mustard, ink, and iodine:

• Remove the stain with lukewarm water and a cloth or sponge. If necessary, clean with a soft nylon pad and non-abrasive mild detergent or resilient floor cleaner.

Heel marks:
Clean as soon as possible with a soft nylon pad and non-abrasive mild detergent or resilient floor cleaner.

Asphalt, candle grease, chewing gum, fat, oil, tar, and shoe polish:
Gently remove with a blunt instrument and treat with a soft nylon pad and non-abrasive floor cleaner.

Lacquer and nail polish:
Remove as soon as possible. Do not allow to dry. If necessary, apply nail polish thinner (sparingly) to remove any residue.

Corrosion, paint, and grass stains:
Treat as soon as possible with a soft nylon pad and non-abrasive mild detergent or resilient floor cleaner.

Varnish, oil paint, and solvents:
Blot up as soon as possible. Do not rub, as this will only spread material further across the surface. Carefully treat with a mild cleanser. When dry, carefully peel the stain off. MEK may be used sparingly, if necessary. Rinse immediately with clean water.

Pet stains:
Treat with lukewarm water. If the stain remains visible, clean with a soft nylon pad and non-abrasive resilient floor cleaner.

BATHROOM

Toilet
For instructions on the care of your toilet, refer to the information in your InfoCase.

Tub and Shower Walls
The tub and shower walls in the bathroom should be cleaned with mild soap and warm water. Do not use an abrasive cleaner on the shower walls and tub, as scratching and discoloration may occur. Stubborn stains may be removed with an automotive-type cleanser.

Lavatory Sink
General Cleaning
Clean often with hot water and soap. If a cleanser is necessary, make sure the product is recommended for use on plastics.
Avoid harsh abrasive cleaners, ammonia, or citric-based products as discoloration may result.
Rinse all food, beverage, or cosmetic residue from the sink as soon as possible. Some residues, if left to sit in the sink, may require the use of detergent or mild liquid or gel-type kitchen surface cleaner.
If acids or medicine spill on the surface, wash the spills immediately.

Marks or Discoloration
A color-matched automotive scratch remover compound may be used to remove stubborn marks or discoloration. Always follow label directions.
NOTE: Do not use steel wool or metal scouring pads.

DOORS AND WINDOWS

Windows may be periodically cleaned with a good quality glass cleaner or mild soap solution using a soft cloth.
Use care when removing ice or frost from the windows. Always use a plastic ice scraper, never one made of metal. Use care when removing ice from the mirrors to protect the reflective surfaces.
Door locks and hinges should be lubricated periodically with powdered graphite to ensure trouble-free operation and to protect against freeze-up.

VEHICLE STORAGE – PREPARATION

Properly preparing your vehicle for storage will lessen the possibility of damage to your vehicle. Prepare the motorhome for vacancy just as you would if you were leaving your house for an extended period.

Clean and Prep Motorhome for Storage

1. Turn off the propane gas tank.
2. Turn the electronic thermostat switch OFF.
3. Remove all foods and items that may cause odors from cabinets and refrigerator.
4. Clean and defrost the refrigerator. Prop the door open slightly to allow any odors to dissipate. Place an open box of baking soda inside the refrigerator to help absorb odors.
5. Fully charge the batteries. Batteries must have at least 80% charge to survive freezing temperatures and long period of non-use. We recommend that you connect a battery charger or plug in the shoreline once a month during long-term storage periods to maintain battery charge and to avoid sulfating. If connecting a charger directly to batteries, turn the House/Coach Battery Disconnect switch off to avoid electrical arcing when attaching and detaching charge clamps. shoreline plugged in continuously during storage.
6. After charging batteries, turn the House/Coach Battery and Chassis Battery Disconnect switches off to disconnect the batteries and avoid parasitic* drain.
   * Parasitic battery drain is the gradual drain by items connected directly to battery power such as clocks, radio memory, and the engine computer.
7.  Have the vehicle chassis completely serviced and lubricated. Be sure radiator antifreeze protection level is sufficient for the lowest anticipated temperatures.
8. Wash and wax the motorhome.
9. Inspect all seams and seals around doors, windows, vents, and any other joints. Replace or repair any that are damaged. Sealing materials and compounds can be purchased from your dealer. Badly damaged weather seals may need to be replaced by your dealer.
10. Close all windows and roof vents. Protect all appliance vent openings from contamination by animals or insects (e.g. bird nest, wasp nests, etc.)
11. Lubricate all door hinges and locks.
12. Clean the interior of the motorhome. Dirt and stains are more easily removed when fresh. If you are storing your vehicle through the winter or in cold climates, extra preparations must be made to protect equipment and systems that can be damaged by freezing temperatures. See “Winterizing Procedure” in Section 7 – Plumbing.

VEHICLE STORAGE – REMOVAL

1. Completely air out the motorhome.
2. Have the entire LP gas system checked for leaks.
3. Check window operation.
4. Check cabinet and door hinges. Lubricate with penetrating oil, if necessary.
5. Close all faucets and drain valves that are open.
6. Add a few gallons of water to the fresh water tank and turn on the water pump to check for leaks, especially at fittings.
7. Open all faucets in turn to release trapped air and check to be sure faucet washers have not hardened during storage.
8. Sanitize the water system as outlined under “Disinfecting the Fresh Water System” in Section 7 – Plumbing, then flush the waterlines thoroughly with fresh water.
9. After flushing fresh waterlines, install a new water filter cartridge on the galley sink water filter and/or full-coach water filtration system (if equipped). See appropriate filter installation instructions in Section 7 – Plumbing.
   NOTE: Always purge a new filter with clean running water before using. See filter manufacturer’s directions included with the filter cartridge.
10.  Check the toilet for proper operation.
11. Add water to the holding tank using the toilet flush pedal (or the “Normal Flush” switch if your motorhome is equipped with an electric flush toilet) and galley sink faucet. Check to be sure dump valves seal tightly.
12. Check around all appliances for obstructions and ensure that all vent openings are clear.
13. Start refrigerator and check for proper cooling.
14. Clean wall and counter surfaces.
15. Replace batteries, if necessary, and check out electrical system to make sure all lights and electrical components operate.
16. Check tires for proper cold inflation pressure. See “Vehicle Certification Label” in Section 1 – Introduction.
17. After washing accumulated winter grime from the vehicle, it is important to carefully inspect the seams and sealants for separation or cracks that may have appeared around the window frames, vents, and any other joints. See Sealants – Inspection and General Information at the beginning of this section. Re-sealing is quite simple and the material is quickly and easily applied. Appropriate compounds are available from your dealer. See “Sealants – Recommended Application” page in the Supplement Manual provided in your InfoCase.
    Also inspect weather seals around doors, etc., and if necessary, have a dealer replace immediately.

Ice Maker Start-Up
–If Equipped

1. Close all drain valves.
2. Turn the water supply on.
   NOTE: Before turning the water supply on, assure that the water faucet filter is in place and that the water shut-off valve (typically located inside galley cabinet beneath sink) is OPEN.
3. Be sure the ice bin is in place and the automatic shutoff arm is down.
4. Let the refrigerator cool down to ice-making temperature. Remember, this can take up to 24 hours.
5. Let the ice maker cycle and dump the first batch of ice.

CHASSIS SERVICE AND MAINTENANCE

Consult the appropriate sections in the chassis manual for specific information regarding operating safety, service recommendations, and maintenance schedules for the chassis section of your vehicle.

MOTORHOME MAINTENANCE CHART

These recommendations apply for normal recreational use. Heavy duty or full-time use may require more frequent maintenance intervals.

Always use specified sections or manufacturer’s guide for further information and instructions.	Before Each Use	Weekly	Monthly	Every 3 Months	Every 6 Months	Every Year	As Necessary
Propane Gas System
Have propane gas system checked for leaks						u	u
Pressure Regulator – inspect and adjust if needed						u
Check propane tank condition, mounting, and fittings						u
Electrical System
Check Battery Condition Meter	u
Check battery fluid level and connections			u
Check 12V fuses and 120V breakers							u
Check GFCI receptacles			u
Generator
Visually inspect generator and compartment	u
See generator manufacturer’s maintenance guide							u
Plumbing System
Sanitize plumbing system							u
Winterize plumbing system							u
Clean water pump strainer filter						u	u
Slideout & Leveling System
Check and adjust							u
Check hydraulic oil level			u				u
Check hydraulic lines (routing, leaks, etc.)						u
Inspect slideout room seals (bulb seals), clean as necessary				u
Exterior
Clean roof				u			u
Clean sidewalls			u				u
Clean windows							u
Flush underside of vehicle				u			u

MOTORHOME MAINTENANCE CHART

These recommendations apply for normal recreational use. Heavy duty or full-time use may require more frequent maintenance intervals.

Always use specified sections or manufacturer’s guide for further information and instructions.	Before Each Use	Weekly	Monthly	Every 3 Months	Every 6 Months	Every Year	As Necessary
Safety Equipment
Check operation of the following items:
Headlights, Taillights, and Marker Lights	u		u
Turn Signals	u		u
Horn	u		u
Hazard Warning Flashers	u		u
Windshield Wipers and Washers	u		u
Headlight Alignment							u
Fire Extinguisher – check charge indicator	u		u
Smoke Alarm – test operation *	u		u
Carbon Monoxide Alarm – test operation *	u		u
Propane Gas Leak Detector – test operation	u		u
(*replace battery if needed)
Appliances
Water Heater
See water heater manufacturer’s maintenance guide							u
Inspect and clean exterior vent	u						u
Refrigerator
See refrigerator manufacturer’s maintenance guide							u
Inspect and clean exterior vent/drip tray drain tube	u						u
Furnace
See furnace manufacturer’s maintenance guide							u
Inspect and clean exterior vent	u						u
Air Conditioner
See A/C manufacturer’s maintenance guide							u
Inspect for exterior damage				u			u
Check/replace filter			u
Range Top
See range manufacturer’s maintenance guide							u
Inspect and clean/replace range hood grease filter							u

MOTORHOME MAINTENANCE CHART

These recommendations apply for normal recreational use. Heavy duty or full-time use may require more frequent maintenance intervals.

Always use specified sections or manufacturer’s guide for further information and instructions.	Before Each Use	Weekly	Monthly	Every 3 Months	Every 6 Months	Every Year	As Necessary
Sealants
Inspect (see “Sealants – Inspection and General Information” at the beginning of this section for proper inspection technique)					u		u
Replace (see “Sealant Call-out Sheet” in the supple- ment manual provided in your InfoCase)							u
Frame & Chassis
Follow chassis manufacturer’s maintenance guide (refer to chassis manual)							u
Inspect hitch receiver (if towing)	u
Tires
Check and adjust air pressure	u						u
Check tread wear	u						u
Check front end alignment and adjust if needed							u
Miscellaneous
Lubricate locks, hinges, and latches						u	u

Reference Links

View Full User Guide: Winnebago Adventurer 2023 User Manual

Download link: https://www.winnebago.com/owners/owner-resources/manuals-and-diagrams/operator-manuals