Forum Discussion

Jebby14's avatar
Jebby14
Explorer
May 12, 2015

Just made the plunge

Hi all. Ive been camping my whole life, tents then pop ups...... just bought my first travel trailer. its a 1991 Prowler 19' looks just like this one

Its older and needs some work but seems to be well taken care of.

anyone have a good checklist or random pieces of advice. I have so much to learn. have a disconnected brake to figure out, a brake controller to install, some lights to rewire and a ton of gear to load. then figure out the propane/electric fridge and we are ready for her first trip. thanks in advance everyone.
  • I think westend and scbwr nailed it.

    - I'd start with a safety inspection (wheels, brakes, tires, bearings, lighting, propane, etc.)
    - Then begin looking for signs of leaks (check windows, roof and all sealant arount everything that protrudes through the top and sides of the trailer. Push on all walls to see if there's any unseen rot.) and other damage. I'd recommend resealing everything if it looks like theres any deterioration while you're up there.
    - From there check the function of all appliances, water system, flush black/gray tanks, and sanatize water system.

    By this point you should have a good list of To-do's yto keep you busy and hopefully there's nothing major. As the receipient of a trailer with water damage, I'd recommend resealing everything if it looks like theres any deterioration while you're at it.
  • for sure. super excited. We have a 14month old daughter with another due little one due around Christmas. cant wait to get them into it. We had my daughter out for 2 separate 4 dayers last year at 4 and 6 months. this will make things so much easier.
  • thanks guys, I will get some better pics tomorrow. just a bit more general info it does not have ac or a fresh water system. (gray and black water systems function though just need to use poured water into the sinks/toilet. The toilet is to be used in emergencies only especially concerning #2 since most of our camping is in provincial parks we use the parks facilities. Mattress is almost new and extremely comfortable. Going to have the brakes serviced this weekend. Axles are in great shape and bearings are fairly fresh although I will repack them to be safe. The fridge is apparently working on electricity and propane although for what I paid I didn't bother to test it myself. Monday we start operation camp driveway. I'm sure this will expose a lot of the bugs (fridge/stove/microwave) are my main areas to debug inside. Want to get it road worthy before I bother making it camp worthy though. keep it coming!
  • Welcome to the forum!

    Check propane lines (at the propane tank) and replace if they are cracked. You may want to test (soapy solution) the fittings where the rubber lines connect with metal line.

    Crawl under the camper and check all visible wiring including wiring to brakes. Also look for any openings that could allow mice to get in.

    Wheels should be pulled, brakes inspected and bearings repacked. Check DOT code on tires and replace if they are over 5 years old.

    Flush the water tank and lines, sanitize fresh water tank. Also, flush hot water tank and check for bypass system and how it works (valve configuration).

    Test fridge for operation on electric and propane (if designed to do so). Run it at least 2-4 days on propane and monitor temperature. Then monitor while on electric.

    Fill the black tank with water. Get some "Campers Friend" and add some to the tank so it can help break down any solids. Let it sit for a day or two, then go to a dump station and dump the tank and backflush. Look to make sure water flows freely.

    Before taking a trip, sleep at least one night on the bed and find out whether you need a new mattress or a foam topper to improve comfort.

    From the picture, I can't tell if you have a roof mounted AC. If so, remove cover and see if it needs cleaning. Then, if you have a circuit that can handle it, see if it works properly.
  • thanks guys. the tires are so-so, nothing to brag about but I should get the season out of them. There is a spot on the front passanger side corner that needs to be caulked but other than that it is in very good condition. this site is awesome by the way. keep the advice coming.
  • Welcome to the forum and congrats on your Prowler.

    Don't forget to check your tires. RV tires usually age out before they wear out.

    Enjoy your travels.
  • Look over the exterior (including roof) and caulk any areas that look like a drop of water might get through. Do not use silicone or siliconized caulk. Preferred brands on this Forum are Dicor and Proflex RV. Use a polymer or urethane based sealant.