Having a smooth RVing experience means having certain tools and items readily available. WD-40 is one product that many RVers carry with them during their adventures. However, while this product has many possible uses, many RVers don’t stop to think about whether it’s safe to use WD-40 on their rigs.
Today, we’re diving in and seeing if you should use WD-40 on your RV. Let’s get started!
What Is WD-40?
WD-40 is a lubricant, rust preventative, penetrant, and moisture displacer. While you can find specific products that perform each job, WD-40 is inexpensive and gets the job done.
It’s a product with a long list of possible uses. This is one of the reasons why you’ll often see it in various workspaces. Everyone from professionals in the automotive industry to your typical homeowner will often have a can or two of WD-40 on hand.
The product was first designed for the Rocket Chemical Company in 1953. However, it didn’t take long for the company to recognize the commercial appeal for consumers. As a result, the product began to appear on store shelves in 1961 and quickly grew as users found ways to use the product.
Should You Use WD-40 on Your RV?
As you’ll soon see, there’s no shortage of ways to use WD-40, including with your RV. You can safely use it in most areas of your RV. You want to avoid spraying it onto any electronics or areas that shouldn’t get wet. As WD-40 is very oily, it may stain some materials, including clothes, if left to sit.
WD-40 is a great option for keeping many parts of your RV in top-notch shape. However, many RVers find it can attract dust and dirt since it is not a dry lube. As a result, you may need to clean moving parts more often to avoid causing any issues. So while WD-40 can get the job done in a pinch, it’s not the best product for every job.
What Parts of Your RV Would Benefit from WD-40?
As we mentioned, you can use WD-40 in a variety of ways. Let’s look at several ways you and your RV can benefit from this multi-functioning product.
Nuts and Bolts
If you own your RV for very long, there’s going to come a time when you’re undoing nuts and bolts on it. Unfortunately, because the nuts and bolts are often exposed to weather conditions, they can become nearly impossible to loosen.
Luckily, spraying them with a coating of WD-40 can help do the trick. Make sure you’re generous when spraying the nuts and bolts, and then give the formula time to do its job. Wait a few minutes, and then try to loosen the nuts and bolts again.
Spark Plugs
If you’re struggling to remove your spark plugs, WD-40 can also help loosen them. Like with nuts and bolts, spray the spark plugs generously with it and let it sit for a minute or two. You’ll likely find that it’s easier to remove them this way.
In addition, WD-40 can also help you to clean them. Spray a bit of WD-40 onto a shop rag and wipe down the plugs. This can help remove any dirt and debris from them and help them to run as efficiently as possible.
Door Hinges and Latches
You don’t want to alert the campground whenever you open or close a door. Unfortunately, some door and storage compartment hinges and latches can be incredibly noisy. These annoying sounds can constantly interrupt the vibe at your campsite.
However, if you open the hinges and latches and spray them generously with WD-40, you’ll be able to enjoy the sounds of silence. You may need to open and close them a few times to work the spray into the hinges and latches, but you’ll likely notice the noise subsides each time.
Windshield Wiper Rubber
Do you hate the streaks left behind when using your windshield wiper blades? Many drivers will errantly rush off to the store to purchase a new set of wiper blades. However, there’s likely plenty of life left in them, and you’re just flushing money down the drain by replacing them early.
If you have some WD-40, simply spray it into a rag and wipe down the rubber on the windshield wiper blades. You’ll likely notice that a tremendous amount of black gunk and debris comes off each wiper. You may need to repeat this process several times until the blades are completely clean.
Battery Terminals
You should always ensure a solid connection when working with electricity, including battery terminals. However, gunk can build up on your battery terminals and affect the connection. If you’re experiencing power issues, it may result from corrosion on your battery terminals.
To clean your battery terminals, turn off your vehicle and disconnect the battery. You can then spray WD-40 into a rag and wipe down the terminals with the rag. You can use a soft-bristle brush to remove any stubborn gunk sticking to the terminals. Wipe down the terminals thoroughly before reconnecting your battery cables.
Chrome
People love chrome because it looks beautiful when it’s clean and shiny. However, it can become less appealing as it attracts dirt and other gunk. WD-40 can help the chrome on your RV or other vehicles look new for as long as possible.
You’ll want to start by thoroughly washing the chrome pieces on your vehicle with hot, soapy water. Use a rag to dry the pieces, then spray WD-40 onto the chrome surfaces. You can then use a soft rag to wipe the spray away from the surface and enjoy the shine.
To Keep Bugs Off the RV Grille
The best way to keep your RV grille looking like new is to keep bugs off of it. Spraying your grille with WD-40 provides a slick layer that makes it challenging for bugs and other debris to stick to it. This is especially helpful for those living in areas with bugs with high levels of acid in their guts that can eat away at the paint on a vehicle.
To Remove Decals
Whether you want to remove a decal that came on your RV or one you’ve added yourself, WD-40 can help. Simply spray the decal with the WD-40 and let it sit for at least 10 minutes. This will give it time to penetrate the decal and work its way behind it.
You can then quickly and easily peel it away. Just make sure you wipe the area clean when you’re finished.
When Should You Not Use WD-40?
While WD-40 can be great at many things, it’s not always the right product for the job. It provides immediate lubrication and isn’t ideal for long-term functions. So while it may silence those squeaky door hinges, it’s only temporary.
In addition, you should never use WD-40 on polycarbonate and clear polystyrene plastics or electronics. If you do, you’re not going to get the results you’re looking to achieve.
However, despite WD-40 not always being the perfect solution, it’s an incredible product, and we recommend you have some available during your adventures.
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