What's Actually in a Professional's Truck
When we pull up to a service call, we're carrying a specific set of tools built around the most common RV problems we encounter. Some of it is specialized. Most of it is stuff any RV owner can and should have.
This list comes from years of mobile RV work in SE Wisconsin. These are the tools that get used most, that have saved the most trips, and that we'd recommend to any RV owner who spends real time in their rig. We've also noted where you can get each one — including items available in the Pals By Design shop.
Safety First: The Non-Negotiables
1. Surge Protector / EMS (Electrical Management System)
This is the single most important piece of equipment you can add to your RV. Campground power quality is genuinely terrible at many locations — low voltage, high voltage, wiring errors, and power surges can fry your converter, air conditioner, and every other 120V appliance you own. An EMS device monitors incoming power and disconnects if it detects anything dangerous.
Get a 30-amp or 50-amp unit depending on your RV's service. Brands like Progressive Industries and Southwire are what we use. Don't leave home without it.
2. Fire Extinguisher (ABC Rated, 2.5 lb minimum)
Your RV came with a fire extinguisher. Check whether it's still serviceable — many factory-installed extinguishers are undersized and past their inspection date. A 2.5 lb ABC extinguisher accessible from inside the coach is the minimum. If you cook with propane regularly, keep one near the kitchen.
3. Carbon Monoxide Detector
If your RV is older than 5 years, check the CO detector. Most have a 5–10 year service life and fail silently. RV furnaces and generators produce CO. Running a generator with improper ventilation kills people every camping season. Replace the detector if there's any question about its age.
4. Wheel Chocks
Rubber or plastic wheel chocks on both sides of your tires, every time you park. This is not optional. It takes 30 seconds and prevents the rig from rolling while you're inside, working under it, or unhitching.
Electrical Tools
5. Multimeter
A basic digital multimeter lets you check shore power voltage, test outlets, diagnose 12V battery issues, and check for blown fuses. You don't need an expensive one — a $25–35 unit from any hardware store is sufficient. Learn to use it before you need it.
6. Non-Contact Voltage Tester
Faster and safer than a multimeter for quickly checking whether a circuit is live. Useful for testing pedestal outlets before you plug in and for diagnosing outlet failures without touching bare wires.
7. Automotive Fuse Assortment (ATC/ATM)
Your RV has dozens of automotive-style fuses protecting 12V circuits. Carry an assortment of ATC and ATM fuses from 5A to 30A. A blown fuse is always a possibility and they're cheap — there's no reason to not have them.
8. Fuse Puller
The plastic tool for pulling fuses without destroying your fingernails or the fuse. Costs about a dollar and is invaluable when you actually need it.
9. Extension Cord (30-amp RV Rated, 25 ft)
Not a household extension cord — an actual 30-amp RV-rated cord. These are for situations where the pedestal is too far from your hookup point or the campground has a non-standard configuration. Available in the Pals By Design electrical section.
Plumbing Tools
10. Flexible Water Pressure Regulator
Campground water pressure can run 100+ PSI. RV plumbing is rated for 45–60 PSI. Connect an adjustable pressure regulator to the pedestal before running water to your rig and you'll never blow a fitting or pop a connection again. This is a “once and done” purchase that pays for itself the first time it prevents a leak.
11. Drinking Water Hose (White, 25 ft)
Never use a green garden hose for drinking water. White or blue hoses rated for potable water don't leach chemicals into the water. Carry a 25-foot primary and a 10-foot extension for when the pedestal is far from your inlet.
12. Sewer Hose Kit with Fittings
Carry a quality sewer hose (not the cheapest one), a bayonet fitting that works with your tank outlet, a 90-degree elbow, and a cap for the sewer pedestal. The hose that came with your RV may be serviceable, but a backup is worth keeping in the bay. Nothing ruins a trip faster than a failed sewer hose connection.
13. Teflon Thread Tape (PTFE)
For sealing pipe threads on water connections. Keep a roll in the tool kit. Whenever you connect or reconnect a water fitting, Teflon tape prevents weeping leaks.
14. Water Pump Strainer Screen (Spare)
The 12V water pump has a strainer screen at the inlet that catches debris from the fresh tank. They clog, especially after dewinterizing. A spare costs about $4 and takes 5 minutes to swap. Carry one.
Roof and Exterior
15. EPDM Lap Sealant (Dicor 501LSW or Compatible)
If your RV has a rubber roof, carry a tube of EPDM-compatible lap sealant. A seam that starts separating on a trip can be stabilized in the field until a proper repair is done. Do not use silicone or petroleum-based caulk on EPDM. Keep it clearly labeled in the bay.
16. EternaBond Tape (2-inch roll)
This butyl-based tape bonds to almost every RV roofing and siding material and creates a watertight seal that lasts for years. It's the definitive field repair material for seam separations, cracked caulk, and small punctures. A roll in your tool kit has saved countless camping trips.
17. Awning Tie-Downs
If your RV has an awning, carry tie-down straps. An unexpected wind gust can destroy an extended awning in seconds. The repair bill starts at $300 for a basic awning replacement and goes up from there. Tie-downs are $20 and weigh nothing.
Leveling and Stabilizing
18. Leveling Blocks (Set of 10+)
Lynx Levelers or equivalent interlocking plastic leveling blocks are the standard. Drive onto them to level the coach side-to-side. They're stackable, lightweight, and work on every surface. Carry enough to get 4–5 inches of lift on one side if needed.
19. Bubble Level (Small)
A torpedo level or small bubble level to verify front-to-back and side-to-side level before extending the slides and settling in. Your absorption fridge will thank you.
20. Stabilizer Jack Pads
The small square pads that go under your stabilizer jacks to prevent them from sinking into soft ground. Asphalt in summer and soft soil at campgrounds will swallow jack feet. Carry four pads minimum. These are also available in the Pals By Design shop.
General Tools
21. Ratchet Set with Standard and Metric Sockets (3/8-inch Drive)
Hose clamps, furnace access panels, battery terminals, and dozens of other RV components use standard fasteners. A basic 3/8-inch ratchet with a socket set in both standard and metric covers 90% of what you'll encounter.
22. Torx Bit Set
Many RV appliances, light fixtures, and interior hardware use Torx fasteners. Without the right bit, you're stuck. A Torx set is inexpensive and takes almost no space.
23. Adjustable Wrench (10-inch)
For LP regulator fittings, water connections, and anything else that needs a wrench but isn't a standard size. One good adjustable wrench handles most plumbing and fitting work.
24. Flashlight / Headlamp
You will eventually need to work in a dark storage bay, under a sink, or inside an access panel at night. A good LED headlamp keeps both hands free. Carry two — one for the bay and one for inside. Keep them charged.
25. Duct Tape and Electrical Tape
Field fixes. Everyone knows it. Carry quality versions of both. Cheap duct tape doesn't stick in cold weather or on dusty surfaces. 3M and Gorilla Tape are worth the price difference.
A Note on Stocking Your Shop
If you're building out your RV tool kit or looking for specific components, the Pals By Design shop carries RV electrical accessories, leveling and stabilizing gear, and essential supplies selected for SE Wisconsin RV use.
Browse the RV Essentials collection or the RV Electrical section.
And if something on this list is showing symptoms you can't resolve — give us a call. Mobile RV service throughout Grafton, Mequon, Cedarburg, Milwaukee, and surrounding SE Wisconsin. (262) 302-5844 | Book online.
Related reading: RV Appliance Troubleshooting Guide | The Only RV Maintenance Schedule You'll Ever Need | Your RV Roof Is Lying to You