Expert Tips: How To Mount A Tv In An Rv Safely & Easily

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Expert Tips: How To Mount A Tv In An Rv Safely & Easily

Want to watch your favorite shows comfortably in your RV? Mounting a TV is a great way to do it. Can you use a regular home TV mount? No, you generally cannot use standard home TV mounts because RVs move and shake a lot, requiring special vibration resistant TV mounts. Where can you mount a TV in an RV? You must find a strong spot on your RV wall, like a wood or metal frame part, or a factory-installed backing plate, to safely secure the mount. Installing a TV mount in your RV takes care, but you can do it easily with the right knowledge and tools.

RVs are fun, but they bounce and vibrate when you drive. This makes mounting a TV different from mounting one at home. A TV that stays put in your house could fall and break in your RV. You need a mount built for the road. It must hold the TV tight, even on bumpy roads. Let’s learn how to add a TV to your RV the right way.

Why RV TV Mounting Is Different

Mounting a TV in your RV is not like mounting one on a solid wall in a house. RVs are lighter and move constantly.

Grasping RV Wall Structure

RV walls are not thick drywall and studs like a house. They are often thin layers of material like Luan plywood, paneling, or fiberglass over a lightweight frame. The frame might be wood or aluminum. There are open spaces between the frame parts. You cannot just drill anywhere. You need to find a strong spot. This strong spot is usually a frame member or a special piece of wood or metal put there by the factory just for mounting things like TVs or cabinets. This is sometimes called a factory RV TV mounting plate or backing block.

The Shake, Rattle, and Roll Factor

When your RV drives, it shakes. It bounces. It vibrates. Anything not secured very well will move. A heavy TV on a shaky mount can pull away from the wall. This is why you need a vibration resistant TV mount. These mounts are built stronger and often have ways to lock the TV in place when you travel.

Picking the Right Mount Style

There are different types of RV wall mount options. The best one for you depends on your TV, where you want to put it, and how you want to use it.

Different Mount Styles

• Fixed Mounts: These mounts hold the TV flat against the wall. The TV does not move. They are simple and strong. They take up the least space.
• Tilt Mounts: These let you tilt the TV screen up or down. This helps if you mount the TV high or low. You can angle the screen for a better view without glare.
• Swivel Mounts: These let you turn the TV screen left or right. This is good if you want to watch the TV from different seats in the RV.
• Articulating Mounts: This is a very popular type, often called an articulating RV TV mount. It has an arm that lets you pull the TV away from the wall, tilt it, and swivel it in many directions. You can watch the TV from almost anywhere. However, these need very strong wall support because they put more stress on the mounting point when the arm is extended.
• Flip-Down Mounts: A flip down TV mount RV is great for saving space. You mount it under a cabinet or on the ceiling. When you want to watch, you flip the TV down. When you are done, you push it back up and out of the way. These are common in bedrooms or kitchens.

Choosing the Best Mount for You

Consider these things when picking your mount:

• TV Size and Weight: Every mount has a maximum TV weight RV limit and a maximum screen size. Make sure your TV is lighter than the mount’s limit. A mount that is too small can break.
• Where You Mount It: Is it high up? Low down? In a corner? This affects if you need tilt, swivel, or an articulating arm.
• How You Watch: Do you always sit in the same spot? Or do you want to watch from the kitchen, the couch, or outside? An articulating RV TV mount gives the most flexibility.
• Wall Strength: Can the spot you chose hold the weight? A weaker spot might need a lighter TV or a different mount type. We will talk more about wall strength soon.

Mount Type	Movement	Space Used (When Not Watching)	Wall Strength Need	Best For
Fixed	None	Least	Good	Main viewing area, thin TVs
Tilt	Up/Down Angle	Low	Good	High mounts, low mounts
Swivel	Left/Right Angle	Medium	Good	Side viewing angles
Articulating	Many angles, pulls out	More	Very Strong	Flexible viewing from many spots
Flip-Down	Down/Up	Least (mounted up)	Specific (under cabinet/ceiling)	Small spaces, kitchens, bedrooms, out of sight

Getting Ready to Install

Preparation is key for a safe and easy installation.

Tools You Will Need

Have these tools ready before you start:

• The RV TV mount and all its parts
• Your TV
• Drill and drill bits (different sizes)
• Screwdriver (might need different types)
• Level
• Tape measure
• Pencil or marker
• Stud finder (specifically for RVs, if possible, or a deep-scan one)
• Safety glasses
• Work gloves
• Possibly toggle bolts or special RV anchors (if no solid backing)
• Possibly wood screws or bolts (if hitting wood/metal frame)
• Optional: A friend to help hold things

Picking the Exact Spot

Think about where you want the TV.

• Can you see it well from where you sit?
• Are there windows that will cause glare?
• Is the wall strong enough in that spot?
• Are there power outlets nearby?
• Are there cables you need to connect (antenna, HDMI)?
• Will the TV block a door, cabinet, or walkway when mounted or when the mount is extended (if using an articulating mount)?

Once you think you know the spot, mark the rough area with a pencil.

Locating Safe Mounting Spots

This is the most important step. You MUST find a strong point in the wall structure. Drilling randomly can damage your RV and the TV will not be secure.

How RV Walls Are Made

As we talked about, RV walls have a thin outer layer and thin inner paneling. In between is a frame (wood or aluminum) and insulation. There are often large empty spaces. Your screws must go into the frame or a factory-added RV TV mounting plate behind the paneling.

Finding Strong Spots

Finding the frame members or backing plates in an RV can be tricky.

• Look for Labels: Many RV makers put a sticker on the wall that says “TV Backer” or “Mounting Location.” This is the easiest way! The factory put a strong piece of wood or metal here for you.
• Check Your RV Manual: Your RV’s owner’s manual or papers might show where the TV mounting spots are located or describe the wall structure.
• Use a Stud Finder: A standard stud finder for houses might not work well on thin RV walls or aluminum frames. Look for a deep-scanning stud finder. Practice using it on a known part of the RV wall (like near a door frame where you know there’s wood) to see how it works. Move it slowly across the area you want to mount the TV. Mark where the finder shows a stud or solid area.
• Tap the Wall: Gently tap the wall with your knuckle. Listen for a solid sound instead of a hollow sound. A solid sound might mean a frame member or backing plate is there. This is not as reliable as a stud finder or label but can help narrow down the area.
• Check for Screws or Staples: Sometimes, you can see tiny screw heads or staple marks in the paneling, often in a straight line. These might show where the paneling is attached to a frame member.
• Contact the Manufacturer: If you are really unsure, contact the maker of your RV. Give them your RV’s make, model, and year. They might be able to tell you exactly where the backing plates or frame members are for mounting a TV.

Finding studs in RV wall construction is key to a safe mount. Take your time with this step. It’s better to find the right spot than to repair a damaged wall later.

What if There’s No Strong Spot?

What if the perfect spot for your TV has no frame or backing plate? You have a few options, but they add steps:

• Choose a Different Spot: Is there another location nearby that does have a strong point?
• Add RV Wall Reinforcement: You can add your own backing plate. This involves:
  • Cutting a piece of strong plywood (like 1/2 inch or 3/4 inch thick).
  • Making it larger than the TV mount base.
  • Covering it with fabric or painting it to look nice.
  • Attaching this plywood plate to the RV wall by screwing into multiple frame members or backing plates that are nearby. You might need to put screws into the wall paneling in the open areas, possibly using special wall anchors designed for thin paneling, though hitting frame is always best.
  • Then, you attach the TV mount to this new, strong plywood plate.
    This makes a large, strong area to distribute the weight of the mount and TV, even if the wall itself is thin. You are basically creating your own RV TV mounting plate.
    

Step-by-Step Installation Guide

Once you have your mount, your TV, and have found a strong spot on the wall, you are ready to install. Follow the instructions that came with your specific RV wall mount, but here are the general steps:

Mark the Spot

Hold the mount base against the wall exactly where you want it. Use a level to make sure it is straight. Mark the center of the screw holes on the wall with a pencil. Double-check your marks are in a strong spot you found earlier.

Pre-Drill Holes

Use a drill bit slightly smaller than the screws you will use. Carefully drill pilot holes at the marks you made. If you hit a wood frame member or backing plate, you will feel some resistance. If you hit aluminum, it will drill easily. Be careful not to drill too deep, especially if there are wires or pipes behind the wall. Know what is behind the wall if possible (checking diagrams or asking the manufacturer).

Attach the Mount to the Wall

Line up the mount base with the holes you drilled. Put the screws or bolts through the mount and into the wall. Use the type of fasteners recommended by the mount maker or fasteners suitable for the wall material you are drilling into (wood screws for wood, metal screws for metal, special anchors if not hitting a frame). Tighten the screws firmly. Do not overtighten, especially into wood or thin paneling, as you can strip the wood or crush the wall material. Make sure the mount is level and feels solid on the wall. This is where securing TV mount in RV really happens.

Attach the Plate to the TV

Your TV mount likely came with a VESA plate or bracket that screws onto the back of your TV. Find the screw holes on the back of your TV (usually in a square pattern). Use the screws provided with the mount that fit your TV’s holes. Tighten them snugly but not too tight.

Hang the TV on the Mount

This step often requires a second person, especially with larger TVs. Lift the TV and hook the plate on the back of the TV onto the mount base on the wall. Many mounts have a system where the TV slides or clicks into place. Make sure it is seated correctly according to the mount’s instructions.

Keeping Your TV Safe on the Road

This is crucial for an RV. You must secure your TV so it doesn’t bounce off the mount while driving. This is a key part of securing TV mount in RV.

Using Locking Arms or Pins

Most vibration resistant TV mount products designed for RVs have a built-in locking mechanism. This might be arms that swing out and hold the TV frame, pins you insert, or knobs you tighten. Before you move the RV, engage this locking system. This keeps the TV tight against the mount or wall, preventing it from bouncing.

Adding Straps or Bungee Cords

Even with a locking mount, adding extra security is a good idea. Use hook-and-loop straps (like Velcro straps) or bungee cords specifically designed for securing items. Wrap them around the TV and the mount arm or base to hold it tight. This prevents any small wiggling that could happen on rough roads. Make sure the straps don’t block vents on the TV.

Specifics for Travel Trailers

Mounting a TV in travel trailer is very similar to mounting in any other RV type. The main considerations are the same: find a strong wall spot, use a vibration resistant TV mount, and secure the TV for travel.

• Travel trailers can experience just as much vibration as motorhomes. Do not skip the step of securing TV mount in RV.
• Weight is always a concern in travel trailers. Choose a TV that is light. Make sure the mount and wall can handle the maximum TV weight RV for that location. A heavier TV puts more stress on the structure.
• Look for the factory RV TV mounting plate sticker in your travel trailer, just like in a motorhome.

The principles remain constant: find solid backing, use a proper mount, and secure the TV for travel.

Taming the Wires

Once the TV is mounted, you will have power cords and possibly HDMI cables, antenna cables, etc. Leaving them hanging looks messy and they can get caught on things or bounce around while driving.

• Use zip ties or cable wraps to bundle the cables together.
• Attach the cable bundle neatly along the mount arm (if articulating) or against the wall using cable clips or adhesive-backed mounts.
• Leave a little slack in the cables so they don’t pull tight when the TV moves (if applicable).
• Route cables safely away from heat sources or moving parts.

Final Checks Before You Roll

Before you drive off on your next trip:

1. Give the TV and mount a good wiggle test. Does it feel solid?
2. Check all the screws on the mount and the TV plate. Are they still tight?
3. Engage the mount’s locking mechanism.
4. Add your extra security straps or bungee cords.
5. Check that cables are secure and not pulling tight.
6. Take a short test drive if possible, and then recheck everything.

Keeping Your Mount Secure Over Time

RVing causes wear and tear. It’s a good idea to check your TV mount periodically.

• Before each major trip, check that the mount is still tight on the wall. Gently try to move it. If it wiggles, tighten the screws.
• Check the screws holding the plate to the back of the TV.
• Inspect the mount itself for any signs of stress or damage.
• Make sure the locking mechanism works correctly.

Dealing with Common Problems

• Mount feels loose: The screws might be loose, or they might have pulled out of the wall slightly. If they pulled out, the wall might be damaged, or you didn’t hit a solid frame member. You might need to move the mount slightly to drill into a new spot, add RV wall reinforcement, or use different fasteners like toggle bolts if you can’t hit a frame member.
• TV rattles when driving: Make sure the locking mechanism is engaged and add extra straps. Check that nothing is loose.
• Mount arm is stiff: Check for dirt or damage. Some articulating mounts can be adjusted for tension.
• Can’t find a strong spot: Consider adding a backing plate as discussed in the RV wall reinforcement section.

Common Questions Asked

Can I put a TV in any spot on my RV wall?

No. You must put it where there is strong support behind the wall paneling, like a wood or metal frame piece or a factory-installed RV TV mounting plate. Drilling into just the thin wall paneling will not hold the weight.

How do I find a strong spot if there’s no sticker?

Look for tiny screw/staple marks, tap the wall to listen for solid sounds, use a deep-scan stud finder designed for various materials, or check your RV manual or contact the manufacturer. This is part of finding studs in RV wall structure.

Do I really need a special RV TV mount?

Yes. RVs vibrate much more than homes. Regular mounts are not built to handle this constant shaking and the stress it puts on the wall connection. A vibration resistant TV mount is designed for this.

What is the most important thing about mounting an RV TV?

Finding a secure spot in the wall structure to attach the mount and making sure you secure the TV to the mount for travel (securing TV mount in RV).

How much weight can my RV wall hold?

It depends entirely on the RV’s construction and the specific mounting point. A spot with a factory RV TV mounting plate can hold more than just a frame member. Always check the mount’s maximum TV weight RV limit and use the lightest TV possible for your needs. If unsure about the wall’s strength, add reinforcement.

Can I install an articulating RV TV mount anywhere?

An articulating RV TV mount puts more stress on the wall because the TV hangs out away from the wall. It absolutely requires a very strong mounting point, like a solid backing plate or multiple frame members.

What if I want to put a TV under a cabinet?

Use a flip down TV mount RV. Make sure the cabinet bottom or the structure above it is strong enough to hold the mount and the TV’s weight.

Adding a TV to your RV can make it feel more like home. By taking the time to choose the right RV wall mount, finding a strong mounting spot, and securing the TV for travel, you can enjoy your favorite shows safely on the road for years to come. Safe travels and happy viewing!