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RV Sidewall Blistering & Delamination Repair Guide 2024
Exterior Hard 2-8 hours for temporary fix, 1-5 days for permanen 213 👍 1

RV Sidewall Blistering & Delamination Repair Guide 2024

According to three different RV shops, fixing my bubbling sidewall delamination will cost thousands, but I'm wondering if tackling this DIY repair myself is actually feasible. My 2004 Itasca Sunova has decided to sprout some lovely blisters on the right sidewall - two beauties that are about 12-14 inches long and 3-4 inches wide, running vertically right behind the awning arm. Perfect timing since we're currently on the road living our best RV life!

I'm pretty sure water snuck in somewhere (probably from the roof rail or that shower skylight we never use), and now my RV looks like it's got chicken pox. Since we can't exactly pull into the nearest RV surgeon's office, I need to know: what can I do right now to stop this from getting worse, and what's involved in actually fixing this mess properly? I'm hoping there's some kind of emergency containment plan that doesn't involve duct tape and prayers! …more
Ford V10 Triton Engine Maintenance Guide: EGR Delete vs Regular Service Tips
Engine Easy N/A 164 👍

Ford V10 Triton Engine Maintenance Guide: EGR Delete vs Regular Service Tips

Spent years doing regular EGR maintenance on my old gas motorhome without issues — but this 2007 Fleetwood 31' Tioga with Ford V10 Triton has me second-guessing everything. I keep reading conflicting information about EGR delete procedures on V10 engines, and I'm worried I might make things worse if I mess with it.

Is the EGR delete modification actually necessary on this 2007 3-valve V10, or am I overthinking this? I don't want to void any warranties or create problems that weren't there before. Would I be better off just sticking to regular maintenance instead of modifications? I'm looking for reassurance that I'm taking the right approach to keep this engine running reliably for years to come. …more
How to Find Reliable RV Repair Shops: Expert Tips & Red Flags to Watch Out For
General Easy 20 min research 137 👍

How to Find Reliable RV Repair Shops: Expert Tips & Red Flags to Watch Out For

About every summer my 2004 Adventurer runs like a dream until temps hit 85°F, then it breaks down constantly and no shop can figure out why. The main slide out has been acting up with the HWH hydraulic system, and I honestly don't know enough to fix it myself.

I'm worried about getting taken advantage of since I don't really know what questions to ask or what warning signs to watch out for. I've heard horror stories about people paying huge bills for shoddy work. What's the best way to research and find a reliable shop? Are there specific things I should ask them before I commit to having work done?

Any guidance would be really appreciated - I just want to make sure I'm being smart about this and not walking into a bad situation. …more
ISL 8.9 Valve & Jake Brake Adjustment: Specs & Tools
Engine Hard 4-6 hours 80 👍

ISL 8.9 Valve & Jake Brake Adjustment: Specs & Tools

The 2004 Cummins ISL 8.9 in my rig is 20 years old and starting to run rough — time for valve adjustments or a full rebuild? What are the intake and exhaust valve specs? I want to confirm the clearance measurements and also need the tool number to adjust the jake brake. Can anyone help me verify the correct specifications before I start this job? …more
Ford E-450 Class C RV Front Squeak: Complete Diagnosis Guide for Brake
Engine Easy 1 hour to diagnose 79 👍

Ford E-450 Class C RV Front Squeak: Complete Diagnosis Guide for Brake

Between leaving my campsite last night and starting up this morning, my Ford E-450 Class C developed this awful front-end squeaking that definitely wasn't there before. My 2004 E-450 Class C with 54k miles has developed a squeak coming from the front end, and I'm not sure how to figure out what's causing it.

The squeak seems to happen at different times - sometimes when I'm braking, other times when going over bumps or rough roads. I've heard it could be anything from brake issues to suspension problems, but I honestly don't know how to tell the difference or what to check first.

Could someone help me understand how to properly diagnose where this front squeak is coming from? I'd really appreciate any step-by-step guidance on what to look for and how to identify whether it's a brake problem versus suspension issue. …more
Carlos at Reef RV Park Paint Review - Puerto Penasco RV Paint
Exterior Easy 4-5 days including travel 76 👍

Carlos at Reef RV Park Paint Review - Puerto Penasco RV Paint

Wondering if anyone's dealt with fading paint, oxidation streaks, AND chalky residue covering their entire RV exterior before trusting Carlos at Reef RV Park? I have a 2004 Winnebago Adventurer and need the storage compartment doors painted on the driver's side (about 2'x28' section). I also have clear coat peeling on my front and rear caps. The quotes I'm getting in the US are absolutely crushing - $5,500 to $6,500 just for the doors!

I've heard about Carlos at The Reef RV Park in Puerto Penasco (WhatsApp: +52-638-105-6894) who does paint work for way less. His initial quote was $1,400, which expanded to $2,500 for additional work including painting front/rear caps and fixing a slideout lip.

Communication can be tricky - it took multiple attempts to connect with him. Reserving at The Reef RV Park was also challenging (pro tip: use Gmail for reservations).

Has anyone actually taken the risk and gotten work done here? I completed the work and was surprisingly pleased. Carlos worked in a basic metal shop with a dirt floor, yet produced impressive, nearly flawless results. While there was a barely noticeable small paint sag, the overall quality exceeded my expectations.

Is this a viable option for RV paint work? In my experience, absolutely yes. …more

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How to Replace RV Slide-Out T-Track Bulb Seals: Complete DIY Guide
Exterior Medium 1-2 hours 75 👍

How to Replace RV Slide-Out T-Track Bulb Seals: Complete DIY Guide

I noticed my 2005 Gulfstream Crescendo's slide-out T-track bulb seal has deteriorated for the third time this season and I'm done replacing it blindly. The existing seal fits into a T-track configuration with specific dimensional requirements - the track opening is approximately 3/16" wide with the T-head measuring 3/8" at its widest point.

Standard automotive or hardware store seals don't appear to match these specifications. What's the proper methodology for sourcing replacement T-track bulb seals that will fit correctly? Also seeking guidance on preparation procedures to ensure proper installation and seal longevity. …more
Ford Motorhome 4-Speed Automatic Transmission Guide: 4R70W vs E4OD vs
Engine Hard 8-16 hours 75 👍

Ford Motorhome 4-Speed Automatic Transmission Guide: 4R70W vs E4OD vs

I noticed it's 2 AM and my Ford motorhome transmission just started making awful grinding noises — need to figure out if it's the 4R70W or E4OD before hitting the road tomorrow. I'm converting a half ton pickup into a motorhome and want 4x4 capability. I keep seeing references to different 4-speed automatic transmissions like the 4R70W, E4OD, and 4R100, but I'm honestly confused about which is which and what the differences are.

I'm trying to figure out which transmission would be most reliable for my needs. Some people mention the 4R70W while others swear by the E4OD or 4R100. Do these vary by year or engine size? And is there a clear winner in terms of dependability, especially for someone who might be doing some towing and converting a pickup?

Any guidance would be really appreciated - I feel like I'm drowning in transmission model numbers and don't want to make the wrong choice! …more
2004 Tioga 29S Phantom 15W Battery Drain on Galley Circuit
Solar Batteries Medium 45 min 73 👍

2004 Tioga 29S Phantom 15W Battery Drain on Galley Circuit

Turned to my local RV tech about a 15W battery drain on my 2004 Tioga 29S galley circuit and he wants to replace the entire electrical panel—seriously? Through systematic testing with my solar charge controller display, I've isolated the drain to the galley circuit by pulling individual fuses.

All visible galley components are confirmed off: refrigerator switch is off, microwave is unplugged, and no lights or appliances are operating. Shore power is disconnected, and I've verified that gas detectors and other small 12V devices aren't the culprit - this 15W draw is substantial enough to drain my house batteries completely.

What hidden electrical components commonly run through the galley circuit that could account for this level of continuous power consumption when the aux switch engages? I need to identify what background systems might be energizing on this circuit that aren't immediately visible or obvious. …more
Ford V10 RV Engine Codes P0171 P0174: Complete Diagnosis Guide
Engine Medium 2-4 hours 68 👍

Ford V10 RV Engine Codes P0171 P0174: Complete Diagnosis Guide

Our '04 Southwind with the Ford V10 started with minor hesitation last month but now it's turned into full P0171 and P0174 lean condition codes. Engine runs fine otherwise - no rough idle, no hesitation, fuel economy seems normal. Just these annoying codes that keep coming back.

I've heard the V10 has some common issues that cause these dual lean codes. Already checked the obvious vacuum lines and cleaned the MAF sensor, but wondering what the most likely suspects are when you get BOTH banks showing lean. Is there a systematic way to track this down, or should I just start throwing parts at it?

Really don't want to take it to a shop if this is something with known failure points on these engines. What would you guys check first? …more
Ford V10 RV Engine: Fix Lean Bank Codes P0171/P0174 and Transmission Leak Diagnosis
Engine Medium 2-4 hours diagnostic 63 👍

Ford V10 RV Engine: Fix Lean Bank Codes P0171/P0174 and Transmission Leak Diagnosis

Staring at my neighbor's perfectly purring 2004 E450 motorhome with Ford V10 while mine throws P0171/P0174 lean codes and leaks transmission fluid everywhere. Getting consistent lean condition codes P0171 and P0174 (lean on both banks). Initial assumption was failed O2 sensors, but codes returned after shop claimed repair. Need systematic troubleshooting approach to identify root cause.

Secondary issue: Minor red fluid leak observed during backing maneuvers, appears to originate from transmission/torque converter area. Leak only manifests during reverse operations and extended maneuvering. Fluid loss is minimal - collected only few drops over monitoring period. Transmission operates normally otherwise.

Looking for technical guidance on proper diagnostic sequence for the lean codes and assessment of transmission leak severity. What are the most likely failure points for these symptoms? …more
Ford F53 Transmission Dipstick Location: Complete Guide for 2006 Motorhome RV
Engine Easy 15 minutes 63 👍

Ford F53 Transmission Dipstick Location: Complete Guide for 2006 Motorhome RV

Around two weeks after picking up this 2006 Ford F53 motorhome, I'm completely stumped trying to locate the transmission dipstick on this beast. I've been trying to locate the transmission dipstick on my 2006 F53 chassis and I've checked the right side of the oil dipstick under the hood, but it's not where my manual says it should be. Would it maybe be under the doghouse cover? I don't want to damage anything by poking around blindly.

I'm also nervous about checking the fluid level incorrectly - should the engine be running when I check it? And I want to make sure I use the right transmission fluid if I need to add any. I've heard using the wrong type can cause serious damage.

Can someone please confirm exactly where the dipstick is located on the 2006 F53 and walk me through the proper procedure? I'd rather ask and be safe than sorry. …more
2004 Ford Class A Motorhome Wheel Specifications: Size, Bolt Pattern &
Engine Easy N/A 56 👍

2004 Ford Class A Motorhome Wheel Specifications: Size, Bolt Pattern &

Woke up ready to tackle my 2004 Ford F53 class A motorhome's wheel replacement — but would this be covered under my extended warranty if I need exact 19.5" wheel specifications? The chassis has 8 lug wheels, not 10. I'm having trouble finding the right replacement wheels that match E450/E550 specifications and want to make sure I get the correct specs before ordering. …more

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How to ID Roof AC Model on 2004 Fleetwood Expedition
Ac Refrigeration Easy 30 minutes 48 👍

How to ID Roof AC Model on 2004 Fleetwood Expedition

This drives me crazy — my 2004 Fleetwood Expedition's roof AC only acts up when it's above 85 degrees outside, but I can't identify the model number to order replacement parts. I've got a 2004 Fleetwood Expedition and the front roof air conditioner isn't working properly. I went up on the roof to check it out, but the sticker with all the model information is completely weathered and unreadable. I can make out that it might be a Dometic or Coleman unit, but I'm not sure. Without the model number, I'm having trouble finding parts or even knowing what I'm dealing with. Is there another way to figure out what AC unit I have? Any guidance would be really appreciated - I'm still learning about all this RV stuff! …more
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