Frequently Asked Questions
RV Operation & On-the-Road Support
Need help operating your RV or have a question while you’re on the road? You’re in the right place. Our RV operation and on-the-road support FAQs cover everything from using your RV’s electrical, water, heating and refrigerator systems to checking tire pressure, operating the awning and understanding basic driving controls. You’ll also find helpful information about troubleshooting your El Monte RV rental, handling mechanical issues or accidents, and contacting our On Road Care Team when you need assistance during your trip. Whether you’re learning how your RV works or need help along the way, these resources are designed to help you travel with confidence.
Side view mirrors are adjusted by hand. Loosen a screw to move the mirror head, then tighten it to secure. Tool needed: 3/16 hex wrench.
Remove the wheel cover to access valve stems. Rear dual tires have one valve stem per tire, positioned diagonally. Use an inflator with fittings on both sides of the hose. Tire pressure specs are on the driver-side door frame sticker. Visit a tire shop or truck stop if assistance is needed.
The RV has 12-volt and 110-volt systems. The 12-volt system is powered by auxiliary batteries charged by engine, generator, or shoreline power. Never use the generator while plugged into shoreline. Check the AUX battery switch and charge the battery if 12V is not working; check breakers and fuse box if 110V is not working.
The furnace uses propane and auxiliary battery power. It can drain the battery, so check battery level every 6 hours and charge when needed. Furnace vents are near the floor. If blowing cold air, check propane and tank valve. If not turning on, check AUX battery and fuse box. Thermostat operation varies by vehicle.
Awnings extend from the passenger side. Use only when parked with parking brake on, AUX battery on, and keys out. Use the button by the entry door. Close awning before driving and keep closed in high winds.
The refrigerator uses auxiliary battery power and operates on propane or 110V electricity. Dometic models use Gas/Auto modes. Norcold models may show auto, plug, liquid, green, or red indicators. RV must be level; empty refrigerator takes about 6 hours to cool; do not overfill or add hot items; many newer models use 12V power.
Pull the gear selector toward you, then move it up or down. Tow Haul mode is activated by the button at the end of the selector and should be used only when towing. Gear options include P, R, N, D, 4, 2, and 1. Use 1 or 2 on steep hills.
Fresh Water fills the freshwater tank and requires the water pump to use tank water. City Water is used at campgrounds and does not fill the tank; keep the water pump off when using City Water. Santi Flush may not be labeled and is used to wash the black waste tank. Do not drink from the freshwater tank.
GFI outlets have built-in circuit breakers. If outlets are not getting power while using generator or shoreline power, use the bathroom outlet reset buttons. Press TEST then RESET. If this fails, check circuit breakers on the generator or campground shoreline post.
Follow instructions in the glovebox, including getting a police report and contacting the On Road Care Team within 24 hours.
All vehicles use unleaded gasoline only. Never use diesel fuel. Any octane 87 or higher is acceptable; 85 octane is not recommended. Return the vehicle with the same gasoline level as pickup.
To be eligible for a lost-use refund, the renter must contact El Monte RV’s On Road Care team, start a Customer Service Log, and follow all instructions, self-help tips, and/or repair recommendations.
For mechanical problems requiring repairs over $100, clients must call El Monte RV’s On-Road Care team for authorization.
