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sneakygroundbuz's avatar
Feb 01, 2018

what do i all need

so the wife and i bought our first TT

and i was wondering what kind of things will i all need for general maintenance.

as far as tools for repairs go,im not worried about those.i was an auto tech for 25 years and have way more than i need for that.

but as far as things like types of caulking etc. what to clean the roof with.
which brands are best.

you know,general maintenance type stuff.

thanks in advance for helping this new RV'er out.
  • You will want some basic extras like fuses and screws, maybe some wire connectors and a wire stripping/crimping tool. Extra retainer pins for your hitch, light bulbs if your unit is not all LED. A multi-tester for electrical diagnosis.

    A basic hand tool kit is adequate to carry, the Robertson #2 is a must and you will want a cordless drill along with a bit kit for those time you just need it. Something always comes up. You might also want a small compressor that will handle the pressures needed to inflate tires to 65 to 80 psi.

    Keep a running list of things you think of that you want or need. It will all fall into place.
  • I have used everyone of these many times and often had to track them down and buy them on the road.


    Brake spoon
    Couple of cans of brake cleaner
    Extra bearings (packed)
    Extra key for every lock
    Plumbing fittings to cap any line
    Extra fuses (esp. 15 & 20 amp)
    Misc. crimp electrical connectors. wire nuts and crimp/strip tool
    Jack and star wrench for trailer (I also carry a torque wrench)
    Dry film and wet lubes
    Prybar
    4 way shoe rasp
    12 in 1 screwdriver
    Hammer
    Vice grips
    Box wrench set
    Pliers
    Needle nose pliers
    Socket set with extensions
    Shop towels and hand cleaner
    Cotter keys (for both truck and trailer hubs)
    Extra lug nuts
  • wa8yxm's avatar
    wa8yxm
    Explorer III
    I am going to give you some links to examples of tools you may wish to carry. NOTE: Not necessarly recommending this brand (True Value Hardware is the catalog)

    Crafstman (Sears/K-mart and selected hardware stores) used to have fantastic warranty (lifetime) but they have downgraded.
    Snap On still has a very good warranty
    And harbor freight is 1 year Really good stuff.

    Battery operated screwdriver/Drill, Mine is less expensive than this (like 20 bucks) comes with screwdriver bits


    As others have said a #2 Square or Robertdson bit fort the drill.

    As others have said a #2 Sqauare or Robertdson bit fort the drill.
    A set or 2 of wrenches. This one is rataching box end/open end. Nice set, many options I do not have this. but use a more standard combination wrench set

    A 3/8" socket wrench set is handy as well. You may also wish to have some half inch and 1/4 inch sockets. (size refers to teh driver not the socket's size)

    As others have said a #2 Square or Robertdson bit fort the drill.



    Pliars. Locking 'Rib Joint' And Long nose needle nose are the most imortant

    And an assorted screwdrivers

    NOTE: many AUto, hardware, Sears, Wal*Mart type stores sell "Kits" that contain most everything on the list except the battery operated screwdriver/drill.

    Tire Pressure guage is also useful.
  • A good LED flashlight. (batteries last longer) Most problems seem to occur near or after dark for some reason.
    A mirror on a stick to see where your head can't get to.
    A volt meter.
    An air compressor that is capable of filling a tire.
    A good tire pressure gauge
    reflector/flairs
    Spare engine belt
    walkie-talkies for aiding back-ups. (No one likes the husband-wife shouting match as they settle into their spot at 2am)
  • thanks for the input every one

    tools arent a problem,after 25 years as an auto tech i have waaaaay more tools than i need. or will ever use again lol
  • Have lots of scrap lumber (2x8 or 2x10) to put under jack pads, and to pull the tires on to level the TT side to side. Use a cordless drill and socket to run the jacks up and down. Do not forget lawn chairs. A patio rug to fit the space under your awning keeps dirt from being tracked in. Have an assortment of 12V fuses that fit your power center.

    Speaking of the awning, is it a power awning? If so, familiarize yourself with the procedure for rolling it up WITHOUT power if the need arises. Same goes for your slide room, if you have one. Know what to do if it refuses to retract when it's time to go home.
  • Wheel bearings should be re-packed annually & the brakes inspected / adjusted. No self adjusters here.
  • First thing to put onboard is a notepad & pencil to write down all the stuff that you find that you need.

    Starting with nothing I went through my tools & where I had duplications created a tool kit that I thought would be useful. Over time much has been added but also stuff has been returned home for lack of need on the trailer.

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