Frequently Asked Questions

The RV electrical system has two parts: a 12-volt automotive-type system and a 115-volt AC household-type system. Most lights, appliances, and motors run on 12 volts, allowing comfortable camping without an external power supply. Keep in mind that you may be Limited to the unit's main battery and its size, typically you might see a: Group 24 - Deep Cycle Marine/RV Battery on a bumper pull camper. When connected to power or using a generator, it charges your 12-volt batteries and powers high-demand appliances like the air conditioner and microwave at the same time. 

An electrical generator turns mechanical energy into electricity using a process called electromagnetic induction. Basically, an engine that spins a shaft, where it then generates power with parts called the armature and stator. Generators run on gasoline, liquid propane, or diesel fuel - You are able to see a parts or salesman to determine what your generator may run on if you do not have access to your owner's manual. In your Ice Castle or RV, most functions don't need a generator. Lights, pumps, the fridge, furnace, and many motors run on 12-volt DC power from your house battery. But some things, like the air conditioner, microwave, and TVs, need a generator or external shore power. If you're camping without a power hookup for a while (think days), a built-in or portable generator can charge your RV's house battery. Solar panels are another option for keeping your battery charged without a generator.Forest Lake Auto Truck & Trailer is proud to offer generators to order or in-stock today. Please see a salesman for more details and what to expect - or need - when it comes to generators. 

This is a very common mistake, just like most doors - You can order replacement keys for your RV entry door, storage bays, and external compartments from an RV dealer - only if you have a standard RV door lock. You may find your specific key code on the inside portion of your handle via a large white sticker or - if it has fallen off - on your individual key itself. If you have a Fish House with a standard - turn style house deadbolt and lock. You will have to replace the lock or have it re-coded to a new key. Some department stores may be able to create copies for you. Many times, a locksmith can provide replacement keys if they have access to your RV. Since most local hardware stores do not usually carry RV key blanks, consider making a duplicate set and keeping it accessible.Forest Lake Auto Truck & Trailer is proud to have the ability to order your new RV door keys - available in 1 or 5 pack amounts. (Availability Varys).

Greasing your travel trailer's bearings is crucial for smooth, safe travels. Typically, it's recommended to grease the bearings at least once a year or every 10,000 miles, whichever comes first. However, if your trailer sees frequent use in challenging conditions or covers long distances regularly, more frequent greasing may be necessary to keep everything running smoothly.Greasing your pivot points on an Ice Castle should be done every other trip you take. Or - when you notice wear and tear, noises or when abnormalities show up. It is important to check with your salesman to ensure where and when to grease these. Our different frame manufactures include different items. (I.E GS-Frames have greaseless/maintain less pivot points and nothing should be added as it may dry or ruin the bushings.)If you have grease fittings on your pivot points - you will most likely need to follow the above instructions or contact your dealer to verify these locations in order to add grease. Typically, you will find fully synthetic bearing grease at your local auto or parts store. In addition to regular greasing, it's essential to check your trailer's bearings periodically for signs of wear and tear. This can include inspecting for any unusual noise coming from the wheels, excessive heat buildup during travel, or any play or movement in the wheels when jacked up. It's good practice to include bearing inspection as part of your pre-trip checklist before hitting the road.Referencing your trailer's specific maintenance manual is key, as it will provide manufacturer recommendations tailored to your trailer's make and model. It'll outline not only the recommended greasing intervals but also the type of grease best suited for your trailer's bearings. Using the right grease is crucial, as it ensures optimal lubrication and protection against the heat generated by your vehicle's brakes.When you do change these out - you will want to use Disc/Drum Wheel Bearing Grease that is specially made for fast-spinning automotive or trailer wheel bearings and can handle the heat from your brakes. It's versatile too, working on both disc and drum brakes. Use it to keep your bearings spinning smoothly and protect them from brake heat.

Understanding your vehicle's towing capacity involves various factors. Even seemingly identical cars or trucks may have different tow ratings due to differences in powertrain, differential ratio, brakes, cooling system, and other variables. Your auto dealer is a valuable resource for determining this information, often able to provide details by entering your vehicle identification number (VIN) into their service computer.You can also consult online resources like our Towing Guide, which covers vehicle tow ratings;IceCastleUSA.com/--towing-guideAdditionally, your RV dealer can offer guidance on selecting the appropriate towing hardware, hitch system, and brake controller for your needs.Forest Lake Auto Truck & Trailer is proud to install these before or after pickup of your unit. Please see a Parts or Salesman to see how we can help!

Today, many RVs and Ice Castles have canopy awnings for shade and shelter. Some are manual—you open and close them yourself. Others are automatic with a button to control them.These awnings are made from durable synthetic materials like vinyl or acrylic. They're tough against the weather and can last a long time. But they do need some care and cleaning to stay in good shape. If you need help with awning cleaners or maintenance, we've got you covered. However, when you're in the market to clean your awning make sure you find one that will keep your awning looking brand new!Most awning cleaners are used to remove mold, mildew, dirt and grime. Some also help protect against damaging sun rays, weathering and salt. Some of them also work great on acrylic, vinyl, synthetic and natural fabrics - as well as being great for outdoor furniture if you have any. Cleaning your awning may be a tedious process but should be done or checked every three months to keep it in pristine condition. 

Regularly check the frame for signs of peeling or rust. If you're leaving your Ice Castle on frozen ground for a while, it's smart to block up the corners to prevent the frame from freezing down, which could cause peeling of the protective rubber coating when you move the house later.You may also notice where rocks or other materials fly up from the back of your vehicle to 'chip' your frame coating. Depending on your frame coating, it is natural to find yourself touching it up once in a while to prevent further rust or other imperfections. For small touch-ups or repair on regular protective black coating - you may find a local "Bed Liner" spray that may suit your needs. If you have a galvanized frame, please note that Galvanization is a zinc coating applied over the top of steel. This will help your frame prevent rust and corrosion far longer than paint will if applied properly. So, in order to maintain this frame - you may need to touch your coating up as soon as you notice chips or flaking. (Typically, behind where your vehicles tires are - you may see rock chips or foreign objects hitting this area.) This is important to take care of right away because this is a prepped surface - where they clean the surface of the metal - leading to a much cleaner 'bare' metal. You may find a can of Flat Gray Cold Galvanizing Compound Spray at your local auto or hardware store to complete this project.