Wet Walls
I have a 2006 Damon Intruder that was built in 2005 and purchased in April 2007. When the temperature falls below 40 degrees and the humidity is higher than 50 percent, all the walls in the motorhome get really wet. This includes the closets, cabinets, and the sidewalls behind the furniture. We use normal heat. There is no relation to any personal habits we have. We do have two dogs.
We are full-timers and traveled in a 35-foot motorhome before moving into our current coach. This is our third motorhome, plus we’ve had three travel trailers, a tent trailer, and a Volkswagen bus. We have never seen anything like this. We are scheduled to go to the factory to have it looked at.
Has anyone ever seen this type of problem? So far, mechanics who have checked out the coach can’t believe it and have said they have never seen anything like it.
Mike Hill, F392387
North Port, Florida
When presented with a situation such as yours, I ask myself, what would I do if this were me? We also have experienced this phenomenon (albeit not quite as bad as you describe) a few times during our 36 years of traveling and living in a type A motorhome. When we do, we turn the ignition switch to the accessory position and turn on the 6-inch windshield defroster fans for a few minutes to get some air moving through the coach. In a few minutes, the moisture is dissipated. We also keep an indoor humidity and temperature monitor on board to indicate the daily high and low temperature and humidity levels. It sure helps to know.
Your motorhome’s interior may be very tight. If so, insufficient air circulation could trap and retain moisture. We also have experienced this. One solution may be to slightly open a window or turn on a fan to equalize the interior atmospheric pressure with the exterior atmospheric pressure.
You said, “All walls in the motorhome get really wet.” If your motorhome has slideouts, does this also apply? In the conditions you describe, and during cold (heating) weather, are you running the coach’s LP-gas furnace? The furnace will pull outside air in to create combustion.
If all of the exterior wall panels are straight, flat, and smooth inside and outside, this would pretty well ensure that no moisture exists within the walls. As I do not know whether your motorhome’s roof is constructed of fiberglass laminated panels or rubber, I cannot comment on that subject.
To possibly help diagnose where the problem is originating, the service center may use a digital hygrometer to gather information in different areas of the motorhome. This tool can detect and measure the temperature and relative humidity in a specific area. These measurements can be used to establish a dew point, which is the temperature at which moisture in the air condenses.
National News
When National RV went bankrupt in December 2007, they published a list of all of their vendors by category (i.e., plumbing, electrical, etc.) on their Web site. It was very useful, so I bookmarked it on my computer; however, that Web site is no longer operational. I didn’t have the sense to download the list and keep it in my computer. Did FMCA download that list and could I get a copy e-mailed to me? Your help would be appreciated.
Rick Hoverson, F353160
Meridian, Idaho
We did keep a copy of the National RV vendor list you are referring to and it is available online at FMCA.com:
National RV Suppliers (PDF)
To request that a copy be sent to you via postal mail, please send a self-addressed stamped envelope to the FMCA national office, attention Editorial Assistant.
Oiling Bearings
I always read with interest your excellent column. I have noticed that your replies often cover only the Type C and lighter Type A coaches. Some of the heavier Type A coaches have front wheel bearings in an oil bath. In many of these coaches, the oil level can be checked visually through a clear plastic cap. In addition, until just recently, the oil reservoir for the bearing could be topped off without disassembly. If the owner has the type of bearing with a screw-in plug (for filling), they can rotate the wheel until the plug is at the top. It can then be removed. It has a magnet in it, and if any bearing wear has occurred, fine iron filings will adhere to the magnet, indicating a need for repair even if the oil level is okay (it happened to me). Keep up the good work, and don’t forget the “big rigs.”
Dr. Robert Green, F230688
Daphne, Alabama
Thank you for your sage advice, doctor.
Tire Covers
I am always amazed at the notion that RV tires require white (or black) tire covers when parked for a short period of time. And I’m also amazed at the failure of tech columns to note that modern tires really don’t require protection from ultraviolet rays unless parked in the sun for extended periods. Weekly, we watch RVers struggle to place tire covers on their motorhome tires for the week or two they will be parked, then drive off without checking the tire pressures. The reality is that tire pressure issues are the greatest cause of tire failure, with deterioration from ultraviolet light an immeasurably distant factor. Tire covers are a solution for ancient tires “” tires that already should have been replaced. In truth, modern tire chemical formulations do not require the protection that the older models needed. Goodyear, for example, actually makes note of this fact in its technical data.
Paul Goldberg, F292582
Green Cove Springs, Florida
While I agree with you concerning short-term stays, tires do need to be protected when the motorhome will be parked for long periods “” especially in the Southwest where I live. Michelin’s RV Tire Guide does still recommend covering the tires when not in use. Certainly, it can’t hurt anything.
Tire manufacturers stress in FMCA convention seminars that there are four main considerations concerning motorhome tire care. Air pressure, as you noted, is one of them. Proper tire pressures should be maintained. Another important factor is age. RV tires should be inspected annually, especially after five years, regardless of mileage. The third is weight. Do not overload the motorhome. And the fourth is cleanliness. A good washing with soap and water and a thorough rinsing are all that is needed.
Small SUV
I am looking for a small SUV to tow behind my motorhome. I think the Honda CR-V looks pretty good! Do you have an opinion, suggestion, or rating for vehicles in this category?
Harold Tyler, F356502
Melissa, Texas
Family Motor Coaching does not rate vehicles for towing. However, both the two-wheel-drive and four-wheel-drive models of this vehicle are approved by Honda for flat towing, as found in the “Towables For 2008” article published in the January 2008 issue of Family Motor Coaching, and on FMCA.com.
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