Winterizing 2003 LY (Gas) Question

[spat61]

I read the manual on how to winterize, especially the part that talks to the water heater. It doesn't say anything about the two hoses that come from the engine. Do I need to care about these rubber hoses?

While searching for my used LY, a 2001 model owner had a shut off valve installed on the hose going from the heater, immediately after the hose comes out of the heater. He said his mech did that to eliminate future problems , eg. ac will work more efficiently and his dash heater will put out more and hotter air.

I would appreciate all advice. Thank you.
Steve

[jimmickle]

Those hoses should not be a problem as they come from the engine and have engine coolant in them. (you do have antifreeze in the engine, don't you)

Jim

[myfirstrv]

I bought a winterizing DVD from camping world, its easier to watch than read,

[spat61]

Jim,
Thanks for the response. I do have antifreeze in the cooling system. I just do not understand the reason for the hoses in and out of the water heater???
Steve

[myfirstrv]

Might be your aux heat while your driving, maybe not enough to heat the water but might be to keep the unit from freezing ?
Just a guess

[gunworks]

Steve,

I'm not sure how it works, but I have the same thing. What I do know is that while underway this system heats the hot water in the tank, because when we arrive at camp site after a full day on the road, Shazam! Hot water a plenty. Most times we don't even need to turn it on till next morning for shower, dishes, etc. I don't do anything more then drain the tank, shut off the fill valves (ie bypass the heater) , and then winterize with RV antifreeze (pink stuff. I fill through the water pump by means of installed bypass valve available at most RV centers. Don't forget to drain the icemaker if you have one. I have done this for four winters and have had no problems.

Good Luck

John