Forum Discussion

Jayco-noslide's avatar
May 24, 2019

Mechanically Challenged RVer

A few words about those of us who are not mechanics and tend to run the other way from some of the posts which imply that almost anyone can do such and such themselves. We have RVed with different types of RV's for over 40 years and there's always something not working or needing repaired or replaced. We do very little of it ourselves. Learned a lot and we can winterize and use Google to figure out some things but mostly depend on RV shops or mobile repair. So, I'm saying don't let a lack of skill keep you from enjoying the pastime. It can be costly so don't get into it if you never have some "extra money" or can responsibly use your credit card. Whatever goes wrong, there's always someone who can fix it.

22 Replies

  • DIY RV mechanics are broken into 2 groups - those that do it to save money and those that simply enjoy doing it.

    I am a fairly handy guy and have tackled many things on our various RV's. That said, there is a LOT I leave to the professionals.

    If you are in the camp of having others do the work, 2 critical pieces - find a shop you can trust and does good work, and be prepared to pay - sometimes a LOT. Pretty simple, but I would agree, don't let RV's be intimidating. Technically you don't need to tackle anything yourself, but having someone else do it costs money.
  • Voltmeter and learn how to use it.....even if you can not FIX the problem you can help to ID the issue.

    Service Manuals for the specific Brand/Model of appliance will help 'understand' how things work.

    It really is just doing a little research and reading up on a subject.