Results for "CAT diesel"

Electrical Medium 2-6 hours 231 👍 1

ECM Low Battery Warning RV: Complete Diagnosis & Fix Guide

During a family trip, my 2005 Fleetwood Discovery 39S threw code 168-1 for low ECM battery voltage and went into full shutdown mode—is this dangerous with kids onboard? Engine cut out, transmission selector went dark, ABS warnings everywhere - the whole nine yards. Scared the heck out of me when it happened on the interstate!

I'm seeing this seems to be a thing with these diesel pushers, but I'm drowning in conflicting info online. Some say it's the chassis battery, others blame alternator issues, and I've even seen posts about ECM power supply problems on the Caterpillar engines. What's the actual step-by-step process to track this down? And more importantly, how do I fix it so it doesn't leave me stranded again? Really need a complete walkthrough of what causes this code and the proper repair approach. …more

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General Medium 30 min research 149 👍 0

Best Cummins 6.7 Scan Tools for RV Diesel Diagnosis & DPF Regen (2024

The internet seems to give me six different answers about which scan tool actually works with my 2019 Fleetwood's Cummins 6.7L—am I missing something obvious here? Need comprehensive coverage for reading and clearing fault codes, monitoring engine parameters, and performing forced DPF regeneration cycles.

Considering several options including the Foxwell HD500, Ancel heavy-duty scanners, and various BlueFire/Inline adapters available through different suppliers. Price ranges vary significantly from budget OBD2 adapters to professional-grade diagnostic equipment.

Looking for detailed comparison of available scan tools specifically for Cummins 6.7 applications - both professional-grade and DIY-friendly options. What are the key features, compatibility considerations, and real-world performance differences between the various diagnostic solutions for this engine platform? …more

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Electrical Easy 10 min read 93 👍 0

Motorhome vs Toy Hauler Electrical Systems: Complete Comparison Guide

Walked into three dealerships with my $40k budget and they're all pushing different electrical setups — can't afford to buy wrong between motorhome vs toy hauler power systems. Currently I have a 2020 F350 diesel SRW with a Reflection 29rs toy hauler, and I'm comparing a Grand Design Lineage 31ZW Super C motorhome versus a Momentum 381MS toy hauler.

The toy hauler I'm considering comes with serious electrical upgrades - 2 heated 400Ah lithium batteries with internal BMS, dual 3,000kVA inverters, four 300W bifacial solar panels, dual 50A solar controllers, and 60A DC-DC truck charging. Currently, to transport my side-by-side (SxS), I need two trucks and two trailers, which is inefficient.

I'm weighing pros and cons like overall length (truck and toy hauler would be about 60', MH and 20' cargo trailer would be about 57'), maintenance costs of keeping two diesel trucks, and transportation flexibility. I also have an F150 that could potentially serve as a toad vehicle.

What experiences can others share about transitioning between these RV types, especially considering power management and transportation logistics? …more

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Best RV Water Heaters

4.4 (6,800 reviews)

General Easy 15 minutes to verify 87 👍 0

Southwire EMS Built-in vs External Surge Protector: Do You Need Both?

Opened my 2022 Holiday Rambler 38N DP and discovered it's eating through surge protectors way faster than normal, despite having the built-in Southwire system. Dealer says I might not need an external surge protector like a Watchdog since it's already built in.

Does a built-in Southwire surge guard provide the same protection as a standalone EMS unit? Should I still install an external surge protector or is the built-in system sufficient? Want to make sure I have proper protection without buying unnecessary equipment. …more

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Engine Medium 1-3 hours 86 👍 0

How to Fix Onan QD3200 Diesel Generator Fuel Leak Behind Air Filter

According to Murphy's Law, my Onan QD3200 generator is doing something bizarre — it's leaking diesel fuel from behind the air filter instead of where you'd normally expect fuel leaks. The fuel appears to be coming from somewhere behind the air filter box, and I'm worried about making things worse if I don't diagnose this properly. I've shut everything down for now because I'm nervous about safety issues.

I need to know the safest way to trace where this leak is actually coming from without creating a fire hazard or damaging anything. What are the most likely culprits in that area, and what's the proper procedure to identify the exact source? I want to make sure I approach this methodically rather than just poking around and potentially making the problem worse. …more

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Engine Medium 4-6 hours research and shop visits 82 👍 0

DPF Failure Code: Repair Cost & DIY Options for RV Diesel

According to my diagnostic scan the DPF failure code shouldn't be appearing since regeneration happened just 500 miles ago on my 2022 Holiday Rambler Cummins B6.7. Local Freightliner service center is quoting $6,400 for complete DPF replacement at 38,000 miles.

Before proceeding with this expensive repair, I need to verify: Is this quote within normal range for dealer pricing? Should my 2022 engine still have emissions warranty coverage that would apply to DPF failure? Are there alternative repair options like professional cleaning that might resolve the issue without full replacement?

Looking for technical guidance on the most cost-effective approach to address this DPF failure code before committing to the quoted repair. …more

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Engine Easy N/A - informational 79 👍 0

Complete Luxury Motorhome Buying Guide for Retirement Full-Time RV Living & Travel

My husband just casually mentioned we're about to drop our entire retirement nest egg on a luxury motorhome when neither of us knows anything about RVs.

I keep hearing different brand names thrown around but honestly have no clue which ones give you the most bang for your buck in that mid-range luxury space. Also wondering if I should buy new or let someone else take the depreciation hit? And what features should I absolutely not compromise on for full-time living?

Just want to make sure I'm not learning expensive lessons after I hand over the cash! …more

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Engine Easy N/A - informational 78 👍 0

2001 Triple E Diesel Pusher Buying Guide: Critical Inspection Tips & Red Flags

Standing next to my neighbor's flawless 2001 Triple E Signature diesel pusher makes the concerning issues on this one I'm considering buying even more obvious. Never owned a diesel coach before, only gas units. At 24 years old, what are the critical inspection points I should focus on? Should I be concerned about the age, or is Triple E known for quality construction that holds up over time? …more

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General Easy N/A 74 👍 0

Monaco Knight 40 Fuel Economy: Real MPG Numbers When Towing a Car

Our 2012 Monaco Knight DFT 40 GOLD is sitting in the driveway right now with the Jeep hitched behind it, and I can practically see my wallet getting lighter just looking at this setup. We're looking at covering about 1000 miles over the course of the trip, and I'm trying to get realistic expectations for fuel costs and planning fuel stops accordingly.

I've heard wildly different numbers from other RV owners about what kind of fuel economy to expect when towing a vehicle behind a 40-foot diesel pusher like the Monaco Knight. Some people claim they get decent mileage, while others say it's absolutely terrible. I'd love to know what's actually realistic to expect in terms of MPG when towing, and if there are any driving techniques or speed considerations that can help maximize fuel economy on a long trip like this. …more

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General Easy Research time 74 👍 0

Class A vs Class C RV: Complete 2024 Buyer's Guide & Size Comparison for Beginners

Staring down the RV lot this Saturday — should I be zeroing in on Class A or Class C models for my first purchase? I'm located in Georgia and looking for a Class A or Class C motorhome in the 28-33 foot range, with specific needs for my situation.

I keep reading that Class A RVs have more space and amenities, which sounds appealing since I want things like a king bed, a 30x36 shower, and room for recliners. But I also hear that Class C motorhomes are easier to drive and get better gas mileage, which might be important since I'm not super confident behind the wheel of a big rig yet.

I'm debating between diesel or gas engines, and whether to look at pre-covid models from established brands like Newmar and Tiffin, or newer options from Entegra and Coachmen. My budget is flexible, but ideally under $100,000.

I'm planning to tow a mid-sized SUV and take both short weekend trips and longer cross-country adventures, and I'll need space to store my recumbent trike. Would really appreciate some guidance on which type would be the better fit for my situation and skill level. Should I prioritize the extra space or the easier driving experience? …more

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Engine Medium 2-4 hours for repair 73 👍 0

Burnt Spot on Oil Dipstick - 2013 Thor Challenger V10 Fix

Wondering why my 2013 Thor Challenger V10 only gets that weird burnt spot on the oil dipstick above 85 degrees — runs perfect when cooler? When I pulled the oil dipstick during my last oil change, there's this obvious burnt spot with carbon buildup about 18 inches from the tip. The stick was also kind of a pain to pull out.

I'm scratching my head here - what would cause burning and carbon right at that specific spot on the dipstick? Is this pointing to something with the dipstick tube itself, or am I looking at a bigger engine problem? Really hoping it's not anything major since the motor only has about 32K on it. …more

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Best RV Solar Panel Kits

4.5 (12,700 reviews)

Engine Easy Research during breakdown 72 👍 0

How to Find Emergency Diesel RV Repair Shops During Breakdown

Nobody believes my wife when she tells people our diesel pusher started billowing black smoke right when that fan belt snapped on Interstate 10, 40 miles from Houston. I know truckers deal with this all the time, so there's gotta be some go-to resources or apps they use to locate repair shops when they break down on the road. What's the smartest approach to quickly find diesel mechanics who can handle an RV when you're stranded? I'm talking about real-world tools and methods that actually work when you're in a jam, like I was where I could barely find anyone close to work on my vehicle. …more

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General Medium 1-2 hours 70 👍 0

Fix CARB Clean Truck Database Account Issues - Class A RV

Pulled into a weigh station yesterday and discovered my Class A diesel motorhome needs a CARB Clean Truck Check account that I completely missed setting up. I can create the account and get through email verification, but then the account shows as invalid and won't let me add my RV or pay the required $30 fee.

I've watched all their instructional videos and followed the steps, but the system keeps rejecting my account. Phone support just directs me to send an email, and I've sent several without response.

Is this a known system glitch? Are other RV owners running into this same problem with accounts becoming invalid right after verification? Need to get this sorted before the 12/31/2023 deadline when registration will be blocked.

Helpful reference links:
- Background info: https://ww2.arb.ca.gov/our-work/pro...truckstop/regulations/clean-truck-check-hd-im
- Database link: https://cleantruckcheck.arb.ca.gov …more

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General Easy N/A 70 👍 0

When to Buy a Used Class A Diesel Motorhome: Best Times for Deals

Pulled into three dealerships expecting to find a decent used Class A diesel motorhome within budget, but they're all quoting me $20K+ over what I can afford. When during the year do dealers typically have the best deals and inventory turnover?

Also curious about when to avoid shopping due to high demand and higher prices. Any insights on seasonal buying patterns would be helpful. …more

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Engine Medium Ongoing monitoring 69 👍 0

Cummins Engine Oil Analysis High Metals: Diagnosis & Next Steps

Around 6am yesterday my 2017 Discovery LXE 39g's 360hp Cummins started showing catastrophic metal levels on the oil analysis report. I sent a sample to the lab for analysis, and they reported that aluminum, iron, and copper levels are higher than typical generic Cummins engine averages. The lab suggested this could be due to extended oil change intervals from the previous owner, but without any baseline data or service records, I'm not sure how concerned I should be about these elevated metal readings.

The RV was previously in an accident (shows on CarFax as comprehensive damage) with front-end body work including wheel, steps, fender panel, and front cowling replacement, though a Cummins mechanic spent two hours going over the engine with me and didn't find any obvious mechanical issues. The lab recommended testing again after 2000 miles to see if the numbers improve, but I'm wondering how to properly interpret these initial results when I have no previous data to compare against. What's the best approach for establishing whether these metal levels indicate actual engine wear or just the residual effects of poor maintenance practices? …more

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