Preparing your caravan mover for winter storage only takes a few simple jobs. Clean off mud and road salt, allow the mover to dry, grease the sliding mechanism and leave the rollers fully disengaged. You should also check the cables and control box, then make a separate plan for the leisure battery.

Doing this at the end of the touring season helps protect the mover from damp and corrosion. It also reduces the risk of finding a problem when you want to use the caravan again in spring.

When should you prepare the mover for winter?

The best time is after your final trip of the season.

Mud, grit and road salt are easier to remove before they have been left on the mover for several months. If the caravan is already in storage, it is still worth completing the checks as soon as you can safely access it.

Before starting, disconnect the caravan from the mains supply. Switch the mover off at the isolation switch and remove the key. Always follow the instructions for your model.

Caravan mover winter storage checklist

1. Wash away mud, grit and road salt

Use clean water from a hose at normal pressure. Pay attention to the brackets, rollers and the area around the motors, where road dirt can collect.

Do not use a pressure washer. It can force water past seals and into the motors, control box or electrical connections.

If dirt is stuck to the rollers, use a firm brush. Make sure the isolation switch is off and the key has been removed before cleaning.

2. Let the mover dry fully

Choose a dry day if possible and give the mover time to drain before covering or storing the caravan. Trapped moisture can encourage corrosion.

3. Grease the sliding mechanism

Remove old grease and grit, then apply silicone-based spray grease or motorcycle chain grease to the sliding mechanism.

Powrtouch recommends doing this at least every six months, and the end of the season is a useful time for one of these applications. Keep grease away from the roller surface and tyres. Our motor mover maintenance guide covers the full year-round routine.

4. Fully disengage the rollers

Check that the rollers are completely away from the tyres. Do not leave them engaged during storage, as this can mark the tyres and leave the mechanism under load.

5. Check the control box

The control box should be secure, dry and well ventilated. Make sure it is not covered by clothes or other stored items.

If you see water, heat damage or corrosion, contact the Powrtouch technical teamor an approved dealer.

6. Check visible cables and connections

Look for loose cables, damaged insulation, rubbing or corrosion. Do not attempt an electrical repair unless you are qualified and confident that it is safe.

7. Remove the handset battery

If the handset will not be used for several months, remove its battery and store the handset somewhere dry. This prevents damage if the battery leaks while it is not being used.

What should you do with the leisure battery?

The motor mover depends on the caravan’s leisure battery. A battery that is left discharged can lose capacity and may fail by spring, even if the mover itself is in good condition.

Charge the leisure battery before storage and follow the manufacturer’s instructions for winter care. The correct charging method depends on whether the battery is lead-acid, AGM, gel or lithium.

Does the storage location make a difference?

Yes. The level of exposure will affect how often you should check the caravan.

• Outdoor storage. The mover is more exposed to rain, road dirt and changing temperatures. Clean and grease it carefully, then inspect it during winter if you have access.
• Under a caravan cover. Use a breathable cover and fit it correctly so moisture is not trapped around the caravan.
• Indoor or barn storage. This gives more protection, but condensation can still form in an unheated building. Do not skip the cleaning, greasing or battery care.

Wherever the caravan is stored, check it after severe weather or flooding if it is safe to do so.

What should you check before your first spring trip?

Set aside around 15 minutes for these basic checks:

• Leisure battery. Make sure it is fully charged, securely connected and in good condition.
• Handset. Fit a fresh battery if needed and check that it communicates with the control box.
• Rollers and mechanism. Check for stones or debris, then make sure the rollers engage and disengage smoothly.
• Brackets and cables. Look for movement, damage or corrosion that may have appeared during storage.
• Isolation switch. Check that it operates correctly and remove the key when the mover is switched off.
• Test run. With the caravan disconnected from the mains, test the mover on level, open ground before relying on it in a tight space.

If anything is not working correctly, use our caravan mover troubleshooting guideor read the full motor mover maintenance guide.

Something not right after storage?

The Powrtouch technical team can help you work through the checks. Spares are also available for current movers and many older models.

Ask our technical team · Browse spares

Frequently asked questions

Should I remove my motor mover for winter?

No. Powrtouch movers are designed to remain fitted throughout the year. Clean the mover, grease the sliding mechanism and leave the rollers fully disengaged.

Should the rollers be engaged during storage?

No. Leave the rollers fully disengaged and away from the tyres. This avoids marking the tyres and prevents the engagement mechanism from being left under load.

Can I use a pressure washer before storing the caravan?

No. Use clean water from a hose at normal pressure. A pressure washer can force water into the motor mover’s sealed components and electrical connections.

Do I need to grease the mover before winter?

Yes, if it is due. Powrtouch recommends greasing the sliding mechanism at least every six months, and the end of the touring season is an easy time to remember. Clean off old grease and grit before applying a fresh coating.

Why will my caravan mover not work after winter?

Start by checking the leisure battery, terminals and isolation switch. A battery may appear charged but still be unable to provide enough power under load. If the battery is healthy, follow the fault-finding guide for your mover or contact the technical team.

Ready for your next trip

Powrtouch movers are designed and made in the UK and include a five-year guarantee, subject to the guarantee terms.

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