RV Service
Registered Technician Study Guide
July 2017
Recreational Vehicle Registered Technician
Duty Weights
A
B
C
D
E
F
G
Number of Test Items
37
27
4
4
5
6
22
Propane Systems
Electrical Systems
DC Electrical Systems
AC Electrical Systems
Plumbing Systems
Interior Components
Technical Skills
Total Questions
105
Recreational Vehicle Registered Technician
Task Weights
Number of Test Items
A
1
2
3
4
5
B
6
7
8
9
10
C
11
D
12
E
13
F
14
G
15
16
17
18
19
20
Propane Systems
Comply with propane safety procedures
Demonstrate general knowledge of propane
Knowledge and identification of propane containers
Perform propane system tests
Troubleshoot prpane system faults
Electrical Systems
Testing devices usage and testing
Identify AC and DC systems
Define common terms and components
Identify types of wiring and connections
Types of circuits
DC Electrical Systems
Demonstrate knowledge of basic DC electricity and safety
AC Electrical Systems
Demonstrate knowledge of basic AC theory and safety
Plumbing Systems
Define common terms and components
Interior Components
Inspect/install/maintain safety equipment
Technical Skills
Install accessories (interior and exterior)
Perform pre‐delivery inspection
Demonstrate effective customer service skills (NOT TESTED)
Perform recordkeeping tasks (NOT TESTED)
Identify types of RVs
Understand Weight related terms and definitions
Total Questions
2
7
9
13
7
1
7
1
14
4
1
4
4
5
6
1
15
0
0
3
3
105
July 1, 2017
 The purpose of this Study Guide is to help the Recreational
Vehicle (RV) Service Technician prepare to take and pass the
RVIA/RVDA RV Service Registered Technician Test.
 The curriculum for the RV Service Tehnician outlines all the
Duties, Tasks and Steps a service technician is expected to know.
This study guide is focused on the Registered Technician level of
certification.
 The following is a limited list of resources where additional
training can be obtained:
 RV Service Technician Textbooks, www.rvia.org





Introduction to RV Service Textbook
Preventive Maintenance
RV Propane Systems Textbook
RV Electrical Systems Textbooks
RV Pre‐Delivery Inspection Textbook
 rvtechnician.com
 Popular search engines such as Google, Siri, etc.
 Get plenty of rest the night before the test so you will be alert and
efficient. Once testing has begun, keep track of the time. Do not
spend too long on any single question. Be sure to read each
question carefully so you understand exactly what is being asked.
If a question is difficult, mark the answer that you think is correct
and mark it to go back later if you have time. It is to your
advantage to answer every question. Do not leave any answers
unmarked or unanswered. Your score will be based only on the
number of correct answers you give.
3
July 1, 2017
RECREATIONAL VEHICLE REGISTERED TECHNICIAN
Duties, Tasks, and Steps (2017)
A
1
a
b
c
d
e
f
g
h
i
2
a
b
3
a
b
c
d
PROPANE SYSTEMS
Comply with propane safety procedures
Avoid propane contact with skin to prevent tissue damage
-- frostbite
Avoid overfilling containers to prevent liquid from getting into propane piping, liquid expansion, regulator
damage and propane vapor release
-- weigh and fixed liquid level gauge
-- DO NOT DEPEND ON OPD
Use proper tools
--open end wrench, slotted screwdriver
--proper use of back-up wrenches
--proper adapters for ASME or DOT
--scales to weigh DOT cylinders
Maintain safe distance from ignition sources to avoid explosion and fire
--25 feet from source of ignition
Wear proper protective clothing
--goggles
--specialized gloves (non-porous neoprene or leather)
--closed toe shoes (steel toe preferred)
Properly store propane cylinders to avoid vapor build up
--open ventilated space
--proper orientation
--with valves closed and safety/dust caps installed
Transport cylinders properly
--proper orientation
--secured (not in a passenger area)
--vented location
Knowledge of local and state laws (not tested) - ask your service manager
Awareness of national RV specific codes and standards
--National Fire Protection Association (NFPA) 1192
--Canadian Standards Association (CSA )Z240
Demonstrate general knowledge of propane
Define properties of propane
--temperature
--vapor is heavier than air
--ordorant
--colorless
Define common terms and identify components
--propane pressure measurements
---inches of water column (IWC)
---pounds per square inch guauge (psig)
Knowledge and Identification of propane containers/appurtenances and components
Types of containers
--DOT cylinder (towables)
--ASME Tank (motorhomes)
--container (common term for both cylinder and tank)
List of appurtenances
--fixed liquid level gauge
--service valve
--sight gauge
--pressure relief valve
-- overfilling prevention device (OPD)
Review the container data plate
--date of manufacture/cylinder recertification (after 10 years)
--tanks do not require recertification
--water capacity (W.C.)
--dip tube length in inches (cylinder)
--tare weight (cylinder)
Visually inspect container surface
--inspect for damage (e.g., secondary heat damage, drop damage, broken welds, dents etc.)
--inspect for surface rust
4
July 1, 2017
RECREATIONAL VEHICLE REGISTERED TECHNICIAN
Duties, Tasks, and Steps (2017)
e
f
g
h
i
j
4
a
b
c
d
5
a
b
B
6
a
b
c
d
7
a
b
8
a
b
c
d
e
f
g
h
i
j
k
l
m
n
o
p
q
r
Inspect/install container mountings and brackets
Inspect/adjust/replace a two-stage system regulator
--purpose of a two-stage system regulator
--locate vent position
--adjust regulator
--replace regulator
--ensure required protection (compartment vs. cover)
--automotive changeover regulator
Purge containers
Fill containers
--A 20 lb cylinder contains 20 lbs. of propane at 80% full)
--Purpose of vapor withdraw tube (also known as J- tube or drop tube)
Transfer propane from one container to another container
Comply with safety procedures addressed throughout standard (NFPA 1192 and CSA Z240)
Perform propane system tests
Perform container and fitting leak tests
--use appropriate leak detector solution (if making soap solution do not use ammonia or chlorine)
--operate electronic gas leak detector
Perform system tests
--timed pressure drop test with properly calibrated manometer (minimum 3 minutes)
--leak test pigtail connection (backflow device) (cylinders only)
--lockup test (14 inches water column) (IWC) (at least one appliance operating)
--system operating pressure test (at least 50% demand)
Perform appliance tests
--appliance functional tests
Complete proper documentation of repair order
--signature, date, time, make, model, VIN, test results
Troubleshoot propane system faults
Understand why propane pressure could fluctuate during system tests
Inspect for kinked hose or tubing
ELECTRICAL SYSTEMS
Testing Devices Usage and Testing
-VOM (digital multimeter DMM)
-ammeter/clamp on ammeter
- ohmmeter
-Ground Fault Circuit Inerrupter (GFCI tester)
Identify AC and DC systems
-DC is battery current (nominal12 volt)
-AC is household current (nominal120 volt)
Define common terms and components
-open (no current flow)
-short (low resistance)
-voltage drop
-resistance
-grounding
-polarity
-continuity
-amperage (current)
-voltage (electromotive force)
-isolated neutral
-hot skin
-inverter
-converter
-generator
-alternator
-6 volt battery
-12 volt battery
--battery shelf life
-transfer switch
5
July 1, 2017
RECREATIONAL VEHICLE REGISTERED TECHNICIAN
Duties, Tasks, and Steps (2017)
s
t
u
9
a
b
c
d
e
f
g
h
10
a
b
C
11
a
b
D
12
a
b
c
E
13
a
13
b
-energy management system (EMS)
-monitor panel
-break-away switch
Identify types of wiring and connections
-scotch lok
-wire nuts
-crimp connectors
-molex and TII (self contained power connector)
-stranded wire (DC)
-solid wire (AC)
-wire gauge (sizing)
-cords
Types of circuits
--ampacity versus wire gauge size
--size of wire gauge vs. size of overcurrent protection
DC ELECTRICAL SYSTEMS
Demonstrate knowledge of basic DC electricity and safety
Comply with safety procedures
--common fire hazards
--battery safety and explosion hazards (hydrogen is explosive)
Identify overcurrent protection types
--fuse (glass or blade)
--circuit breaker (Class I, II, and III)
AC ELECTRICAL SYSTEM
Demonstrate knowledge of basic AC theory and safety
Comply with safety procedures
--common shock hazards
Identify GFCI (ground fault circuit interrupter)
--purpose
--receptacles
--circuit breakers
Identify ampacity of shore power service
--30 amp
--50 amp
PLUMBING SYSTEMS
Define common terms and components
fresh water distribution
--storage tanks (fresh water/potable)
--pump
--fill (gravity and city)
--water distribution lines
--faucets (including exterior)
--check valves
--vacuum breakers
--low point drains
--water heater bypass valves
--filters/strainers/purifiers
--accumulators
--water pressure regulator
Define common terms and components
waste water systems
--holding tanks (waste)
--termination valves
--venting (vent through roof, anti-siphon trap vent device)
--p-traps and waterless traps
--fixtures
--tank flush valves
6
July 1, 2017
RECREATIONAL VEHICLE REGISTERED TECHNICIAN
Duties, Tasks, and Steps (2017)
--macerators
F
14
a
b
c
G
15
a
b
16
a
b
c
d
e
f
g
h
i
INTERIOR COMPONENTS
Inspect/install/maintain safety equipment
Install/maintain/replace smoke alarm/CO alarm/ propane detector
--expiration dates (per manufacturing instructions)
--operational testing (alarm and sensor) per manufacturing instructions)
Install/inspect fire extinguishers
--proof of non-use (pin/seal intact)
--proper type and size (5B:C/trailers and 10B:C/motorhomes and toy haulers)
Check operation of emergency exits
--less than 20lbs of force to open
TECHNICAL SKILLS
Install accessories (interior and exterior)
Comply with component installation instructions
--demonstrate comprehension of reading instructions
Identify considerations for adding accessories
cumulative added weight over 100 lbs. requires CCC label to be changed
--use of proper fittings, fasteners and sealants
--maintain interior and exterior physical clearances (slides, doors, etc.)
--verify proper structural support and backing
Perform pre-delivery inspection
Test propane systems
--timed pressure drop test (minimum 3 minutes)
--regulator lock up test (14 in water column)
--system operating pressure test (with at least 50% demand on system)
Operational test on all appliances and accessories
--cycle appliances, components and accessories and verify operation
Test and inspect AC electrical system
--perform visual inspection of AC electrical system and components
--hot skin test
--polarity test (all receptacles)
--voltage test
---static
---loaded
--Ground Fault Circuit Interrupter (GFCI) test (GFCI Tester)
--circuits (multimeter)
Test and inspect DC electrical system
--charging systems
---inverter (nominal 117 VAC)
---converter (13 voltsat full rated DC current (amps)
---solar (14v DC nominal) (check manufacuturer instructions)
---alternator (14v DC nominal)
--batteries
---fluid level (topoff with distilled water)(lead-acid)
---secured in place
---charge level (lead acid is 12.65 VDC; gel cell is 13.0 VDC)
---connections (clean and tight)
--operational test of all 12v components
Check safety items
--presence and operation (smoke alarm, co alarm, propane detector, fire extinguisher, emergency
exits)
Check and lubricate doors, drawers, and windows
Check seals
--window
--roof (Do not use 100% silicone sealant)
--molding
Check wiper blades and wiper/washer operation
Visually inspect all fluid levels (coach and chassis) (oil, hydraulic fluids etc.)
7
July 1, 2017
RECREATIONAL VEHICLE REGISTERED TECHNICIAN
Duties, Tasks, and Steps (2017)
j
k
l
m
n
o
p
q
17
a
b
c
d
e
f
g
h
i
j
k
l
m
18
a
b
c
d
Inspect belts and hoses
--wear and deterioration
Visually inspect chassis
--leaks, damage, properly secured components/harnesses
Check tires
--torque of nuts/studs
--proper tire pressures (including spare tires)
--spare tire securement
--DOT manufacturing date code
Test electric brake system
--measure magnet amperages (3 amps)
--test break away (switch and battery charge)
--check brake adjustment and bearings
Test fresh water system
--pump operation/filter
--city water inlet/check valves
--interior and exterior faucets and showerheads (hot/cold)
--low point drains
--pressurized leak test
--monitor panel
--storage tank
---gravity fill
---city fill
---drain
---vent
---tank securement
Winterize coach and de-winterize
--wet method
--dry method
Test waste water system
--termination valve operation (main drain)
--operation of tank flush system
--monitor panel
--flow test (retarded flow)
Test-drive (motorized only)
--handling
--steering
--braking
--noises and vibrations
--horn
Demonstrate effective customer relations skills (NOT TESTED)
Act courteously
Listen carefully
Use effective communication techniques
Empathize with customer
Ask direct questions
Build trust and rapport
Explain plan of action
Provide RV orientation and instructions
Use protective coverings
Provide helpful hints
Ensure follow-up
Test drive with customer
Return replaced parts to customer/vendor
Perform recordkeeping tasks (NOT TESTED)
Record consumer complaint/concern
Record registration and warranty forms
Complete personnel records (time sheets, etc.)
Record and sign for work performed and declined on appropriate form
8
July 1, 2017
RECREATIONAL VEHICLE REGISTERED TECHNICIAN
Duties, Tasks, and Steps (2017)
e
f
g
h
19
a
b
c
d
e
20
--timed pressure drop test results (document--date, start and stop time, pressure maintained, etc.)
Record all parts and inventory used
Record time in and time out for service
Record serial number, production number, hours of operation and model of all appliances addressed
Record mileage (motorized units) and serial number of coach
Identify types of RVs
Motor homes--class A, B, and C
Towables
--travel trailers
--hybrids
--folding camping trailer
Fifth wheels
Toy hauler
Truck camper
Understand Weight related terms and definitions
--GVWR (Gross Vehicle Weight Rating)
--GAWR (Gross Axle Weight Rating)
--TW/pin weight (Tongue Weight)
--CCC (cargo carrying capacity in a trailer)
--OCCC (Occupant Carrying Capacity in a motorhome)
--GCWR (Gross Combined Weight Rating (tow vehicle/trailer combined)
9
July 1, 2017