Recommended Maintenance for 2003 Alpenlite 5th Wheel Trailer

Question:

So I purchased a 2003 Alpenlite with Dexter axles and Dexter NevRLube bearings. Other then yearly inspection is there any thing else to watch for?

asked by: Michael L

Expert Reply:

Your Dexter NevRLube bearings will save you some of the mess of annual trailer maintenance but there are still other parts of your Alpenlite that require/deserve your attention for both safety reasons and to ensure you have as much hassle-free fun as possible when on the road.

First and foremost are your tires. UV rays can really do a number on rubber and other materials in your RV. Your tires will last longer if you can protect them from the sun as much as possible. Tire covers used during off-season storage, and even when at your favorite campsites, will reduce the chance for cracking in your sidewalls. The cost of a sun-damaged tire cover is small change compared to the cost of replacing even one tire. A storage cover for the trailer will also reduce the effects of sun exposure on components such as your rooftop AC unit, your vents and even interior fixtures which can still suffer fading from sunlight.

I linked our pages for both tire covers like # 290-3952 and 5th wheel trailer covers like # 290-52252. Just determine the size cover you need for your specific trailer model and the diameter of your tires and you can then pick out covers you like.

Other items on the RV that merit a routine check include your lights (lenses, bulbs, wiring), your breakaway system (both the switch and battery) and the suspension which may on occasion need new wear-prone parts like shackle links for the leaf springs. The linked article on trailer maintenance is a great resource that will help you keep your trailer roadworthy.

expert reply by: Adam R

Mike

6/3/2020

it is a question about my 04 5 wheel camper nev R lube i am having it towed from longview texas to sebring Fl , it has sat since 2010 wheels go around with no odd movements, can i lube the bearings

Chris R.

6/8/2020

There's not a good way to lubricate the Dexter Nev-R-Lube Bearings but the good news is there's not really a reason to. There isn't a set lifespan on these bearings but as long as everything appears to be working okay on your existing hubs they shouldn't be an issue for your upcoming trip.