Lubricants, sealants and cleaners

[AlanN]

Would anyone care to share their list of "essential" lubricants and cleaners for our RWs? For example, CRC Powerlube for the Schwintek worm gear slides, 3inOne oil for dump-valve cables, etc? I'm trying to put together a list of products to have on hand, and I want to make a schedule for lubricating slides, seals, bearings, etc. I have some of the basics like WD-40, Breakaway Penetrating Oil, etc. but I know there are some specialty products which I'll need. My DW "suggests" that I just let whatever dealer we might be near do this on an annual basis, when we do the annual inspection. I'd like to be a little more proactive than that. Thanks for your suggestions...

[Adamsvr]

You hit most of them, but you might want to add Pledge for the nose cap. It helps keep the bugs from sticking to it and Old English for the interior woodwork.

[AlanN]

Originally Posted by Adamsvr

You hit most of them, but you might want to add Pledge for the nose cap. It helps keep the bugs from sticking to it and Old English for the interior woodwork.

Thanks! Looks like I should also add Dicor Sealant for the roof, and maybe a roll of EternaBond tape for emergency roof repairs (low branch tears, etc.).

[travelin' texans]

I just finished polishing ALL the wood inside with Scott's Liquid Gold, what a difference, really brought out the color & grain in that beautiful interior. Lots of rubbing, like waxing the exterior, but well worth it. Might want add some to your list.

[atom ant]

Technically, you are supposed to use an Alpha Systems lap sealant on the roof, at least according to Redwood and Alpha. However Dicor will tell you their product is fine on the Alpha roof. Who you gonna believe

[0nTheRoad]

Not sure if you'll use the WD-40 on much, one you should add for most lubricating is Silicon spray lubricant, especially for the exterior.

[AlanN]

Originally Posted by travelin' texans

I just finished polishing ALL the wood inside with Scott's Liquid Gold, what a difference, really brought out the color & grain in that beautiful interior. Lots of rubbing, like waxing the exterior, but well worth it. Might want add some to your list.

Good idea, thanks! I use Formby's lemon oil on my cherry furniture here at home, but I'll try a couple of different products in different rooms and see which I like best in the RW.

[AlanN]

Originally Posted by atom ant

Technically, you are supposed to use an Alpha Systems lap sealant on the roof, at least according to Redwood and Alpha. However Dicor will tell you their product is fine on the Alpha roof. Who you gonna believe

I'll start by believing Alpha Systems, and will carry both! :-)

[AlanN]

Originally Posted by AlanN

I'll start by believing Alpha Systems, and will carry both! :-)

True, it isn't a lube product - I use it just for what it's intended, and as a solvent. I already have the silicon lube and white lithium grease. My wife keeps half a dozen varieties of olive oil around too! :-) thanks!

[AlanN]

Originally Posted by 0nTheRoad

Not sure if you'll use the WD-40 on much, one you should add for most lubricating is Silicon spray lubricant, especially for the exterior.

True, it isn't a lube product - I use it just for what it's intended, and as a solvent. I already have the silicon lube and white lithium grease. My wife keeps half a dozen varieties of olive oil around too! :-) thanks!

[NW Snowbirds]

Invisible Glass with Rain Repellent for windows and shower doors. Cleans streak free and water runs off (like RainX). Get it at auto parts stores or some warehouse hardware stores but not all have the type that includes rain repellent. Got this suggestion from professional RV detailer in San Diego this winter.

[atom ant]

Originally Posted by AlanN

I'll start by believing Alpha Systems, and will carry both! :-)

Alan, I wouldn't stock up too much on it, I bought some and it only has a 1 year shelf life for the Alpha product. Not sure about Dicor.

[SecretSkwerl]

Originally Posted by Adamsvr

You hit most of them, but you might want to add Pledge for the nose cap. It helps keep the bugs from sticking to it and Old English for the interior woodwork.

This quote is worth gold considering, I just took 2 hours to clean my nose cap of love bugs in Florida the other day.

[Jim & Mary]

I've seen discussion on the schwintek slide lube with the crc powerlube, but nothing on the hydraulic slides. Lippert seems to be silent on the subject. Any thoughts from you experts?

Thanks, Jim

[travelin' texans]

They do not recommend any lubrication, I used white lithium grease & it stopped the moaning & groaning when going in & out.

[Adamsvr]

Originally Posted by Jim & Mary

I've seen discussion on the schwintek slide lube with the crc powerlube, but nothing on the hydraulic slides. Lippert seems to be silent on the subject. Any thoughts from you experts?

Thanks, Jim

The Crossroads Service Center told us not to use grease on the main slides. It collects to much dirt and road debris. Rather just occasionally to spray CRC.

[JohnEileen]

They used Vaseline on the toilet at the dealer after we had one stick Friday night. Pro Con everyone...

[travelin' texans]

So far have no debris on slide arms as when traveling they are protected by underbelly, also used minimal amount of grease, wouldn't hesitate to do it again when necessary.
As far as Vaseline on toilet I wouldn't, I use CRC on peddle mechanism & flush ball periodically. Also have used liquid soap on flush ball, it works for while.

[Dave&Ginny]

Originally Posted by Adamsvr

The Crossroads Service Center told us not to use grease on the main slides. It collects to much dirt and road debris. Rather just occasionally to spray CRC.

I was told the same thing

[AlanN]

Originally Posted by atom ant

Alan, I wouldn't stock up too much on it, I bought some and it only has a 1 year shelf life for the Alpha product. Not sure about Dicor.

Yup, shelf life is always a consideration. I usually keep the smallest container available in my kit for emergency repairs, and only get a larger size if a repair warrants it. Thanks...