The Two Most Commonly Stolen Items From a Motorhome

For the most part recreational vehicles are not targeted by criminal events such as break and enter, component, or entire vehicle theft.  Any of this type of criminal activity is nearly unheard of during the camping season.  This is in part probably due to the vehicles being in use or even on and off throughout the season.  While during the off season, when stored for the winter, some break-ins and theft unfortunately do occur.  However, these are not that common, perhaps due to the low resulted revenue obtained.  After all, they only get maybe a TV and an in-dash radio. all of which may bring a hundred and fifty dollars at best when fenced.  RV wheels, tires, and related components are not targeted as they are from too much a niche market.

Well, all that was back then.  Today bigger dollar bounty has changed all that.  Ever climbing gas prices and large catalytic converters are the spoils that are attracting criminals to RVs.

When it comes to gasoline theft, to the perpetrator a motor home or a twin tank tow vehicle is like a fuel tanker with capacities of 75 to 200 gallons.  At today’s prices hundreds of dollars worth could be stolen in a short time.

The other item that has attracted people to turn thief is the catalytic converter.  These are found on pretty well all automobiles and trucks since their introduction and becoming mandatory in the early seventies.  Due to their containing a small quantity of precious metals in the form of palladium and platinum, theft of these has grown.  They are part of the exhaust system found between the engine and the muffler.  They can be cut off from beneath the vehicle in a matter of minutes.  These can bring hundreds of dollars and often a thousand or more, depending on the size and model.  Larger truck engines may have five times the valuable metals quantity, which of course elevates the price.

So why are RVs possibly prone to this type of theft?  Well, their primary use is seasonal, therefore it may be a possible easy target during the non-use lay-up.  During winter storage most motorized RVs have full gas tanks to help reduce the forming of condensation.

The catalytic converter also might offer a tempting haul with some larger converters being worth more than the average autos.  In addition, the higher ground clearance of motorized RVs lends them more room to work beneath the vehicle.

So, how do you prevent this type of theft from happening to you?  Let’s look at some ideas and good practices.

         Protecting Your RV’s Gas And Catalytic Convertor From Theft

Replace the gas cap(s) to locking type. While this is a positive move to secure your fuel, it will not necessarily prevent the fuel being stolen. Would-be fuel thieves often access the gas by drilling the tank or intake pipe.  Many RV owners claim that using locking caps causes the perpetrator to resort to this type of action which can add more than the cost of just the fuel.  This type of damage could cost a thousand dollars or more.  However, since anti-spill valves, which prevent dumping fuel in the event of rolling over, are in many vehicles today, syphoning may not work.  But at least it discourages some from attempting to syphon your tank.   Locking gas caps are a prudent idea regardless as it will dissuade many and they also serve as a guard against vandalism in the form of contaminating the fuel tank. Secured Winter Storage Facility. Storing in a yard or building that provides 24 hours security is a good measure.  Storing at home where you can keep an eye on it, also works. Electronic Security For At–Home Storage.  Motion detectors and home security cameras are both very effective safeguards.  Their mere appearance can cause would-be thieves to go elsewhere. Position The RV In The Best Orientation. When parking the vehicle for its layup, position it with the fuel port facing the most visible spot and the beneath space near the catalytic convertor mounting.  This will help to expose anyone syphoning, drilling or cutting in these areas. Use Portable Electronic Monitors. For more remote sites, placing  battery powered cameras, motion sensors, and the like can be effective. Advise Your Insurance Company If You Have A Fuel Or A Catalytic Convertor Theft  If the tank or input pipe was drilled or tampered with to steal fuel, advise your insurance company.  While the fuel only will not be claimable or will not exceed the deductible, the possible damage caused by cutting and drilling may be substantial.   If your “Cat” is stolen, you will know as soon as you start the engine.  It will roar like a non-muffled “hot rod.”  The replacing and repair of any collateral damage can be substantial.  Again, report your theft to the police and insurance company. Air Down Suspension If Applicable. Yes, diesels also have catalytic convertors.  Diesel pusher owners should air down their suspension fully.  This will make it more difficult, or impossible, for thieves to access these expensive exhaust components. Engrave The Vehicle’s V.N. On To The “Cat”. Engrave the main body of the convertor, not the heat shield.  This will make it not salable.  Once most see this they will go elsewhere. Weld A Heavy Piece Of Metal Blocking Removal. While this will discourage most thieves it will also require much more work for you to remove it if replacement or repair is needed.

Well, hopefully you will never experience such events.  RVs generally are not targeted by thieves.  But practicing safety and security in this day and age is only prudent.

So, let’s get out and enjoy the RV lifestyle.

Peter Mercer – Be Safe

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