Replacing Aging RV Marker Light Lenses

I was driving down a pretty country lane in my RV when a low hanging branch whacked my 5th wheel. I didn't think much about it, but on later inspection discovered a cracked marker light lens. When I did an inspection of my motorhome marker lights I discovered one that was cracked on the rear cap. How that happened I have no idea (knowing me, I probably backed into a tree limb ).These lenses are cheap (usually under a dollar) and easy to replace. Most RV stores and auto parts stores carry them in stock. These lenses are important because they help keep water from entering your coach. If there is a crack the light may fill up with water and leak into your RV. Ultra violet radiation also tends to fade and weaken these lenses so you may want to inspect them and replace those that have had the most exposure to the sun. You may need to use a screw driver blade to help pop the lens cover off, but most of the time you can just pull them off with your fingers. When you inspect these lenses, be sure to look carefully at the caulking around the fixture. Make sure there are no cracks in the caulking and that it is firmly affixed to the surface of the RV. If you discover that the caulking is failing take the fixture off and scrape off the old caulking and replace it with new. Many interior RV water leaks can be traced to a leaking marker light. Since these marker lenses are so cheap you may want to replace them all with shinny new lenses. This is also a good time to check and replace your bulbs. Reflecting on RV maintenance - Jim Twamley, Professor of RVing