Whether a camper needs an underbelly is an important consideration for RV owners. An underbelly refers to a protective barrier that covers the underside of a camper or RV. Underbellies serve several key functions that can benefit campers in various ways. In this article, we’ll explore what underbellies are, why they can be useful for RVs, their pros and cons, and things to consider when deciding if adding an underbelly is right for your camper.
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What is an RV underbelly?
An RV underbelly is a protective covering secured to the underside of a camper or RV. Underbellies are typically made from durable materials like heavy plastic, fiberglass, or galvanized steel. They create a barrier between the inside of the RV and everything underneath it.
On travel trailers, fifth wheels, and other towable campers, the underbelly extends from the front hitch to the rear bumper. For motorhomes, it stretches across the entire underside from front to back. Underbellies are secured in place with rivets, screws, sealant, and other mechanical fasteners.
The main components protected by the underbelly include:
- Plumbing pipes, tanks, and drain systems
- Propane lines and tanks
- Heating and cooling systems
- Electrical wiring and components
- Insulation
- Chassis and suspension parts
By enclosing these vulnerable systems and components, the underbelly safeguards them from weather, debris, road hazards, and other external threats.
Why are underbellies useful for RVs?
There are several key benefits offered by RV underbellies:
Protection
The primary function of an underbelly is to protect the underside of the RV from damage and wear. Road debris like gravel, sand, and stray rocks can kick up while driving and hit the exposed undercarriage. An underbelly creates a sturdy barrier against this and other road hazards. It also shields the bottom from weather elements like rain, snow, mud, and dirt which can corrode, erode, or clog components over time. Wind, hail, falling branches or other debris are also no match for a rugged underbelly.
Insulation
Underbellies provide an extra layer of insulation for the RV floor. This added insulation keeps interior spaces warmer in winter and cooler in summer. Less external temperature transfer means RV heating and cooling systems don’t have to work as hard. Insulated underbellies are especially useful for campers who use their RVs in very cold or very hot climates.
Noise reduction
An underbelly dampens noises from the road and exterior environment. This creates a quieter interior so you can better enjoy time spent inside the RV.
Aerodynamics
A smooth underbelly improves aerodynamics by reducing air drag underneath the RV. This enhances overall fuel efficiency during travel.
Component protection
Critical RV components like tanks, pipes, wiring, and heating/cooling systems are extremely vulnerable on the underside. An underbelly provides reliable protection for these expensive and necessary systems.
Aesthetics
Underbellies give the underside of an RV a smooth, sleek, uniform appearance. This contributes to a more attractive exterior look compared to an exposed underside with visible mechanicals.
Pros of RV underbellies
Some of the key advantages of RV underbellies include:
- Protect components from weather, debris, road hazards
- Insulate floor from temperature extremes
- Reduce noises entering from under the RV
- Improve aerodynamics and fuel efficiency
- Guard critical systems like plumbing, propane, wiring
- Prevent corrosion and damage from road elements
- Provide a smooth, uniform exterior appearance
- Help maintain interior comfort in hot/cold weather
- Extend the life of RV components and systems
Cons of RV underbellies
Some potential downsides of underbellies include:
- Added cost, especially for installation after manufacturing
- Additional weight which reduces cargo capacity
- Reduced ground clearance
- Can trap moisture if prone to leaks or condensation
- Difficult to inspect or access components beneath
- Prone to damage from road hazards, low overhangs
- Repairs can be complicated compared to exposed underbelly
Things to consider when deciding about an underbelly
Here are some important factors to weigh when determining if an RV underbelly is right for you:
Where you camp –
If camping in areas with harsh weather, extreme temps, or rugged terrain, an underbelly offers more protection.
Full time vs occasional use –
Full time RVers or those who use their camper extensively benefit more from the durability of an underbelly.
New vs older RV –
Adding an underbelly to an older RV with an exposed underside can extend its life and prevent further wear.
Factory installed vs aftermarket –
Factory underbellies integrate smoothly during manufacturing. Aftermarket ones require careful installation.
Camper size & type –
Larger RVs have more surface area needing protection. Towables may benefit more than motorhomes.
Regional weather –
Temperature extremes, winter salt/snow, coastal moisture, and desert conditions warrant better underbelly protection.
Replacement parts –
If the underbelly gets damaged, replacement panels, sealants, and hardware add to costs.
Repairs –
While underbelly repairs are usually simple, lacking experience could make it a challenge versus uncovered access.
Added weight –
Heavier underbellies reduce cargo capacity which may require loading adjustments.
Level of protection –
Thicker, more rugged underbelly materials provide maximum component protection.
Access needs –
If frequent underbelly access is preferred for maintenance, exposed systems may be better.
Conclusion
Here is a summary of the key pros and cons of RV underbellies:
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| Protection from hazards | Added cost |
| Insulation | Reduced ground clearance |
| Noise reduction | Moisture entrapment |
| Improved aerodynamics | Access difficulty |
| Component protection | Susceptible to damage |
| Aesthetic appearance | Complex repairs |
Overall, RV underbellies provide enhanced protection, insulation, durability, and aesthetics compared to exposed undersides. For campers regularly facing harsh environments or extreme weather, underbellies are highly recommended.
They are less critical for occasional fair weather RV users or smaller campers. Added weight and access limitations are also downsides to weigh. But for most travel trailer, fifth wheel, and motorhome owners, an underbelly represents an upgrade offering many performance and longevity benefits.
Carefully assess your specific camping needs and priorities to decide if investing in an RV underbelly is a smart choice. They entail some trade-offs but can be valuable upgrades for many applications. With proper maintenance, underbellies reliably shield critical RV components for many years of enjoyable camping trips.
This concludes our overview on RV underbellies. Hopefully this provided useful information to help determine if installing or upgrading to an underbelly is right for your camper situation. Happy and safe travels!