Winterization and Bike Rack Questions

[MtnGuy]

I am posting this for a new member that is still figuring out the system here.

This is from minilite12:

Have started to winterize my 2012 minilite rockwood 1809s I have already opened low point drains, fresh water drain, water filter out and drained, wh drained anode out there is some sludge in wh when I stuck finger in drain. Would like to flush the wh can I leave the by- pass open or closed to wh before I start flush. What is best way to flush? I don't have a flush wand. After flush I will do air compress flush followed by af winterizing. Maybe this is over kill for Durham NC don't get that cold. Also have a af inlet next to camp ground water inlet would like to know the procedure to use this inlet. Also I purchased a 2 inch receiver that bolts to 4 inch bumper on back of trailer for bike rack are the bumpers strong enough to hold 2 lite racing bikes ? New to site lots of good info.

[MtnGuy]

Just opening the low point drains may not fully drain the water out of the lines. You may still need to either blow the lines or add RV antifreeze (the pink stuff) to fully winterize your system as you mentioned.

A wand is best for rinsing out the water heater. They are fairly cheap.

To use the antifreeze siphon hose, turn the 3 way valve in line with the hose, stick the hose down into the antifreeze bottle, and turn on the pump. Make sure your low point drains and all faucets are closed before doing that. Then open 1 faucet at a time to get antifreeze through those. I posted a thread on how I do that: http://www.forestriverforums.com/for...hod-30959.html

Hate to be blunt, but the bike rack on the bumper is not a good idea.

[Road-King]

Welcome to the forum...

I just blow out the water lines in my TT here in TN. I have done this for years with no problems. I do add antifreeze to the shower and sinks traps and about quart to the toilet. I also bypassed and removed the built in water filter.

mtnguy is right about the bike rack. On my TT there is a sticker on the back bumper that says if I attach anything to the bumper it could void my warranty.

[Herk7769]

Until he figures out how to read the FAQ and search for info here, (there are many threads on why attaching ANYTHING (including the OEM spare tire carrier it seems) to the square tube ultralite bumpers is a "bad idea."

Here are some photos gleaned from those threads. There are many more.

If you DO ignore the warnings, be on the lookout for early warning signs like loose or lost bumper caps. They were not stolen. Twisting of the bumper will work them loose or pop them right out the first bump in the road you hit.