RV Tech Talk
RVwest is pleased to have Reg DeYoung as our RV expert and regular columnist. As a Journeyman RV Technician, DeYoung has 15 years of experience in the RV industry. He received his certification from Okanagan College and, for the past nine years, has been working for Runners RV—a recreational vehicle dealership located in Cranbrook, B.C. Over the years, DeYoung has dealt with a variety of RV problems and maintenance issues. As a certified RV Gas Fitter, DeYoung is authorized to work on RV appliances as well. RVwest is thrilled to have DeYoung on board and appreciate his expertise.
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RV questions and answers
View past RV related questions and answers with our tech expert, Reg DeYoung. Send your questions to editor@kpimedia.com with “RV Question” in the subject line.
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Exciting RV innovations

Reg DeYoung finds new trends at the 2010 Calgary RV Expo and Sale
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Brake with confidence

An introduction to electric brake controls
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Learn more about deep cycle RV batteries

RV tech, Reg DeYoung, shares his in-depth knowledge of RV batteries
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Further advice for the snowy time of year

Tips for living in your RV during the winter months. (Part two)
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Ready to try cold weather RVing?

Tips for living in your RV during the winter months. (Part one)
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Get winterized

10 RV accessories that will help you prepare for the icy season
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RV Propane - Part two

Further information on propane safety. Learn how to ensure that you can use this resource with confidence and peace of mind.
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RV Propane - Part one

Propane is a safe and reliable energy source and is very well suited for RV use. However it is important to exercise proper maintenance procedures.
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RV park models: the RV’s big brother

There will always be folks who enjoy the thrill of the open road, but the recent economic climate has changed the RV lifestyle nationwide.
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Why own an RV?

If you’re thinking of purchasing an RV then now’s the time. I know that sounds like a sales pitch but there are many positive benefits to RV ownership.
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RV sanitation systems
Keeping your RV holding tanks clean and well-maintained.
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Waterworks for your RV
Your RV water system can be easily maintained without too much trouble and many minor repairs can be done with some basic tools and a minimal amount of time.
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A comprehensive outline of RV water heaters and their maintenance
RV water heaters are available in mainly two configurations. The most common have an insulated tank that can be made of aluminum or glass-lined steel depending on the manufacturer, and are usually available in six- or 10-gallon sizes.
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The cold facts about maintaining your RV fridge
Keep your unit level and other maintenance tips on how to keep your RV refrigerator running cold, including how to check if your fridge is affected by the Dometic recall.
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How to get the most out or your RVs furnace
Most folks have now winterized there RVs and locked the door for the season, but if you like to enjoy your RV a little further into the fall, your going to need to switch on the furnace for a more comfortable stay and some basic knowledge of this system may be beneficial.
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Watch out for water damage
Recently at our shop, a customer asked us to take a look at a discoloured area under the dinette bench and give an estimate for the repairs. He had just purchased the RV privately, and wanted to quickly fix this area up. When the lino was removed what was exposed was a severely rotted out floor structure and upon further inspection it was determined the entire corner—both the floor level and in the wall—would have to be rebuilt.
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Slide-out solutions
Although having a slide-out in your RV will increase its appeal and re-sale value, there are a few maintenance procedures and tips that will help to ensure this option provides you with years of camping enjoyment.
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Stay safe from the silent killer
Most folks are aware of their smoke or propane alarms and know to get out of there RV immediately, but a carbon monoxide detector is another safety feature that gives you an early warning of danger in your RV. Having a basic understanding of its function is valuable.
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Power converter basics
A power converter is a very important electrical component of your RV and provides a couple of features that ensure you enjoy your camping experience.
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Wheel bearing maintenance
The wheel bearings on your RV are a very improtant part of the suspension components. They perform basically two functions.
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Spring RV shake-down
Just as there is a sequence or methods to winterize your RV, there is a checklist for summerizing it and bring your RV back to life after being closed up over the winter months.
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RV awning advice
Reg DeYoung provides information, tips and helpful pointers about getting the best out of your RVs patio awning.
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Braking information
Look after your RV trailer brake system and it will look after you.
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Winterizing your RV
How to get your rig ready for winter storage.
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Keep cool and comfortable
How to maintain your RV air conditioner-and avoid breakdowns.
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Take care of your tires
Proper maintenance of tires is an important part of owning an RV.
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Striking a perfect balance
An equalizer hitch system will improve the stability and safety of your unit.
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RV roof care
Here are some simple ways to make your rig’s roof last longer.
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RV service advice
How to improve your dealings with an RV service department.
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The work of an RV technician
Ever wonder what’s involved in the day-to-day life of an RV tech?
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Ten great gifts for RVers
Many people spend hours searching for the ideal gift to buy their friends and family members. If you are like most people you will likely shop at the mall or a department store. One shopping option most folks don’t think about is an RV store.
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Getting ready to fly south
To ensure a good trip, important for snowbirds to make sure their unit is fully prepared.
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RV siding 101
Repair and care of the exterior siding of an RV are issues that arise in an RV owner’s life