5 Truck Camper Maintenance Tips

Truck campers provide the benefit of a tow-behind RV without any actual need to tow anything. Like a traditional camper, truck campers do benefit from some yearly maintenance.

1. Exterior Seals

There are a variety of seals on the exterior of your truck camper. There are seals on the roof, where the roof meets the siding, along every corner edge, around vents, and on all edges of the windows and doors. These seals need to be inspected annually for any signs of failure or leaks, or mold could become an issue. Sealant can be replaced, as can weatherstripping around doors and windows. 

2. Hydraulic Jacks

A truck camper has at least a few hydraulic jacks that are made to come down on the corners so you can support and level the camper before detaching it from the truck. Some campers feature manual jacks, while others are motorized. Regardless of the mechanism, these need to be inspected and lubricated annually to make sure they are working properly. This may include cleaning jack handles or testing the motor or automatic self-leveling systems. 

3. Slide-Out Tracks

Some truck campers feature a slide-out that provides more space when the camper is in the parked position. The slide-outs are on tracks, which can accumulate debris over time. Annual maintenance includes cleaning and lubricating the tracks, as well as making sure slide-out wheels and bearings are in good shape and not due for replacement. Tracks should also be checked for any damage or warping so that they can be repaired before they damage the slide-out itself. 

4. Electrical Systems

Most modern truck campers are designed to plug into an RV grid or to run on solar. They may include an electrical panel, outlets, refrigerators, microwaves, and other electrical appliances. It's a smart idea to have all of the electrical inspections inspected annually so you don't have to worry about the chances of a damaging short or a deadly fire. All repairs to the electrical system need to be made promptly for the sake of safety. 

5. Lamination

Most modern truck campers have a laminated exterior instead of siding. This is a layer of plastic laminate sheeting that is heat bonded to a wood base. The result is lightweight, waterproof, and easy to maintain. If water somehow gets behind the laminate, such as from a seal leak, problems occur as the laminate will begin to bubble. The problem can often be fixed if it is caught early enough. 

Contact an auto service for more help when it comes to maintaining your truck camper


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