18+ month storage concerns

[MikeLindaTarach]

2023 30RLS last used Oct 2023 then unemployment, new job, health and life has just gotten in the way. Next time we use it won't be until Apr/May 2025. It's been winterized and I can check it as needed. Batteries pulled out and in my basement.

What should I be concerned about when pulling it out next year? I've never let a trailer go this long without being used. (We're in NE Ohio)

Thanks in advance!

 

[Oregon_Camper]

Is it under a cover? I'd check roof when possible. I'd also go inside every 2 months or so, to check for mice. Other than that, I think you've prepped it for winter and it should be fine.

 

[MikeLindaTarach]

Finally able to pull our 30RLS out of storage after it's been sitting since Oct 2023. My wife's health is much better and I decided to retire so limited vacation days no longer a concern!
I've been able to regularly check the interior, exterior and tires while its been stored. Everything looks good as far as I can tell. Trailer has about 4700 miles on it, should I have the bearings repacked as a precaution? TIA

 

[M and E]

Finally able to pull our 30RLS out of storage after it's been sitting since Oct 2023. My wife's health is much better and I decided to retire so limited vacation days no longer a concern!
I've been able to regularly check the interior, exterior and tires while it’s been stored. Everything looks good as far as I can tell. Trailer has about 4700 miles on it, should I have the bearings repacked as a precaution? TIA

Congrats on your wife feeling better and your retirement! I’m not the most experienced RV owner here but I know vehicles. Yes, inspect and repack the bearings. Grease does degrade. Also, there is a chance corrosion could have developed over that amount of time so replacing might be in order as bearings can pit just from ambient humidity. Bearing grease, believe it or not, can absorb moisture adding to the problem. All of these risks are statistically low but I’ve seen it. For the couple of hundred bucks to have them checked, it’s worth every penny.

 

[BryanValRox]

Congrats on your wife feeling better and your retirement! I’m not the most experienced RV owner here but I know vehicles. Yes, inspect and repack the bearings. Grease does degrade. Also, there is a chance corrosion could have developed over that amount of time so replacing might be in order as bearings can pit just from ambient humidity. Bearing grease, believe it or not, can absorb moisture adding to the problem. All of these risks are statistically low but I’ve seen it. For the couple of hundred bucks to have them checked, it’s worth every penny.

Totally agree with Mike’s comments above!
Enjoy your new adventures, glad your wife is feeling better!
Bearing repack will be money well spent.

 

[Oregon_Camper]

Having sat that long, with tires in same place, I would take RV to a tire shop and have them inspected. They might have developed a flat spot.

 

[M and E]

Having sat that long, with tires in same place, I would take RV to a tire shop and have them inspected. They might have developed a flat spot.

Good advice. I’m not being contrary; it should be checked, but only after driving and the tires reach temperature. Modern tires (most at least) self correct from flat spots (it’s actually flex) after they roll and warm up. If the flat spot remains, vibration persists, replace it. Any obvious deformities, like cracking, then it should really not be rolled very far and should be replaced. The silica based rubber used in most tires today is engineered to return to its molded shape quickly during normal operation and after storage under load as long as pressures are maintained. A little nerdy but I promise it’s accurate.

 

[Oregon_Camper]

Good advice. I’m not being contrary; it should be checked, but only after driving and the tires reach temperature. Modern tires (most at least) self correct from flat spots (it’s actually flex) after they roll and warm up. If the flat spot remains, vibration persists, replace it. Any obvious deformities, like cracking, then it should really not be rolled very far and should be replaced. The silica based rubber used in most tires today is engineered to return to its molded shape quickly during normal operation and after storage under load as long as pressures are maintained. A little nerdy but I promise it’s accurate.

LOL....clearly you know a LOT more about tires than I do. I'd suggest anyone reading this to follow advise from "M and E" first.

 

[Midnight Rider]

Congrats on your wife feeling better and your retirement! I’m not the most experienced RV owner here but I know vehicles. Yes, inspect and repack the bearings. Grease does degrade. Also, there is a chance corrosion could have developed over that amount of time so replacing might be in order as bearings can pit just from ambient humidity. Bearing grease, believe it or not, can absorb moisture adding to the problem. All of these risks are statistically low but I’ve seen it. For the couple of hundred bucks to have them checked, it’s worth every penny.

Mike
Who do you use or where can I get my bearings repacked? Tire Shop?

 

[M and E]

LOL....clearly you know a LOT more about tires than I do. I'd suggest anyone reading this to follow advise from "M and E" first.

I am a total car nerd. I hope it wasn't too much. Actually, it was anything with a motor and wheels, now I've added RVs to the list! Not trying to be a know it all...only good intentions.

 

[M and E]

Mike
Who do you use or where can I get my bearings repacked? Tire Shop?

I've always done it myself on the vehicles I've owned that don't have sealed hub assemblies (most are today...non-serviceable). But any trailer shop can do it for you. Tire shops might be a good choice too as long as they have the space; had not considered them as an option TBH. For the most part, though it's messy, you can do it yourself with really basic tools. It takes about 30-45 minutes per wheel. I've never used a mobile tech but that could be a really good choice too. If you are here in SW or the big bend in Florida, Tropic Trailer can do it for you and they have an outstanding reputation.