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Ford V10 Turbo Kit for Motorhomes: Cost, Risks & Better Alternatives
Engine Hard Not recommended 1,117 👍

Ford V10 Turbo Kit for Motorhomes: Cost, Risks & Better Alternatives

Before every camping season rolls around, I face the same dreaded reality with my Ford V10 motorhome crawling up mountain passes like a wounded turtle. What are the realistic costs involved? Are there major risks to the engine I should know about? Is this actually worth doing or should I look at other options? …more
RV Water Pump Losing Prime: Troubleshooting & Winterization
Plumbing Medium 2-4 hours 814 👍 9

RV Water Pump Losing Prime: Troubleshooting & Winterization

Got a 2022 Tiffin Open Road 34PA with a water pump that keeps losing prime during winterization — about to buy a replacement but wondering if I'm throwing money at the wrong problem? I can get it back by quickly opening and closing one of the lowest drain valves, but then it just loses prime again after a while. This has happened on other RVs I've winterized too, but it's particularly stubborn on this Tiffin.

I'm suspecting it might be the inline check valve next to the pump or maybe the one behind the Truma hot water heater, but I'd love some guidance on proper diagnosis. What are the most common causes of prime loss during winterization, and what's the best way to troubleshoot and fix this? I want to make sure I'm covering all my bases for winter storage prep. …more
RV AC Making Loud Humming Noise? Fix Compressor Not Starting
Ac Refrigeration Medium 45 minutes 796 👍

RV AC Making Loud Humming Noise? Fix Compressor Not Starting

Somewhere above my head, there's this loud, relentless humming grinding through the RV whenever I flip on the rooftop AC — compressor won't start but the fan spins fine.

I've been dealing with this for days now and it's driving me crazy - especially with the heat we've been having! The humming is so loud that I'm worried something might be seriously damaged. I really hope this is something I can fix myself rather than having to call out a repair tech. What could be causing a compressor to hum loudly but not start up? …more
Onan 5500 Generator Problems: Complete Repair Guide
Engine Medium 2-6 hours 773 👍 1

Onan 5500 Generator Problems: Complete Repair Guide

Spent three hours testing my 2014 Hurricane's Onan 5500 gen getting 11.8 volts output when every manual says it should be 12+ volts! Here's the weird part - when I disconnect the remote harness, the generator fires right up and purrs like a kitten. But the second I plug that remote connection back in, boom - both the remote start light AND the generator start light come on, and then... nothing. Won't start at all.

The really bizarre symptom is this chattering from the fuel pump when the remote is connected. I can literally feel the fuel line jumping around when I put my hand on it. It's like the pump is having some kind of seizure or something!

I'm guessing this has to be some kind of electrical issue between the control board and the remote system, but I've never seen anything quite like this before. Anyone dealt with this specific combo of symptoms on an Onan 5500? Really hoping there's a known fix because pulling this thing out of the RV again would be a major pain! …more
Ford E-350 vs E-450 RV Chassis: Fuel, Power & Weight
Engine Easy N/A 544 👍

Ford E-350 vs E-450 RV Chassis: Fuel, Power & Weight

Last weekend I felt this awful engine strain and heard sluggish acceleration sounds while test-driving a 2017 Phoenix Cruiser #2351 with its E-350 chassis and V10 engine. I'll be doing extensive western touring through mountain and plains regions, which means substantial mountain grades and wind challenges. I'm comfortable driving slowly and want to understand two key things: 1) Will this E-350 chassis handle mountain grades without major issues, and 2) What's the real-world fuel consumption like? I plan to do an initial inspection this weekend, followed by a third-party mechanical review. I'm not overly concerned about fuel economy but want to understand the actual performance limitations. I'd appreciate insights from owners who have experience with similar touring conditions on an E-350 chassis. …more
RV Electrical Problems: 12V & 120V Troubleshooting Guide
Electrical Medium 2-6 hours 521 👍 4

RV Electrical Problems: 12V & 120V Troubleshooting Guide

Around $500 in parts later — replaced the main breaker, cleaned all connections, checked the transfer switch — my 2007 Holiday Rambler Admiral SE still won't recognize shore power.

I'm pretty sure 110V is making it to the rig since I can measure it, but somewhere between the plug and my appliances, something's not happy. Energy management panel is dark too. What's the logical troubleshooting order here? I keep hearing about transfer switches and breaker panels but honestly don't know where to start without making things worse! …more

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Fix RV Low Water Pressure on City Connection: Troubleshooting Pump Assembly
Plumbing Easy 30 minutes 521 👍

Fix RV Low Water Pressure on City Connection: Troubleshooting Pump Assembly

Last week my pressure regulator started reading a solid 40 PSI on city water but my water pump keeps cycling on for 5-6 seconds when everything says it should stay completely off. When I connect to city water, my water pressure regulator shows a solid 40 PSI, which should be plenty, right? But here's the weird part - my water pump keeps kicking on for about 5-6 seconds then shuts off, even though I'm connected to city water and the pump switch is supposed to be off.

The really frustrating thing is that the pressure feels weak throughout the RV, with specifically the bathroom sink and kitchen sink seeming low, though the shower has good pressure. I've already changed out the intake/check valve and don't currently have a filter in the system. I can see the pump running while on city water, which I know is not normal. I noticed the kitchen and bathroom sink screens were plugged - which might explain some pressure issues - but now I'm wondering about the toilet's low pressure. Could there be a screen in the toilet line I'm not seeing?

I've been full-timing for two years and never had this issue before. What should I be checking for? I'm handy enough to do basic repairs but need to know where to focus my troubleshooting efforts. …more
How to Fix a Squeaking Dometic Fan-Tastic Roof Fan in Your RV
Ac Refrigeration Medium 45 minutes 499 👍

How to Fix a Squeaking Dometic Fan-Tastic Roof Fan in Your RV

Looked up at my Dometic Fan-Tastic roof fan squeaking loudly above my kids' beds—is this dangerous or could something actually break and fall on them? The fan blades aren't hitting the housing, so that's not the issue. What are the most common causes of squeaking in these roof fans? Is this something I can fix myself with basic maintenance, or does it usually require replacing parts like bearings or the motor? …more
How to Reduce RV Interior Noise: Complete Sound Dampening Guide for Motorhomes
General Medium 4-8 hours 482 👍

How to Reduce RV Interior Noise: Complete Sound Dampening Guide for Motorhomes

Despite having a 2021 Coachmen Mirada, looking at my sound meter right now and there's 69 decibels of highway noise blasting through the cabin. My target is to achieve approximately 65 decibels for better communication with passengers.

I need a systematic approach to interior noise reduction. What are the most effective sound dampening materials and techniques for motorhomes? Specifically, I'm looking for solutions that address engine noise transmission, road noise, and any rattling components that contribute to the overall sound level.

What realistic noise reduction can I expect from proper sound deadening implementation, and what are the key areas to focus on for maximum impact? …more
Michelin RV Tire Problems: Complete Guide & Solutions
Engine Medium varies 449 👍 1

Michelin RV Tire Problems: Complete Guide & Solutions

Standing in my driveway planning to tackle these serious handling issues with my new Michelin Agilis HD Z 245/70R19.5 tires on my 2018 Winnebago Vista LX 27N this Saturday — what should I check first? The RV now has 25k miles, and since switching from Goodyear tires, I'm experiencing terrible tail wag - especially when towing my 2024 Toyota Tacoma and in windy conditions.

I've tried multiple tire pressures (82 psi from door sticker, 110 psi from installer, up to 100 psi) but nothing resolves the side-to-side movement. I have several stability modifications installed (Rear Trac Bar, Aux Roadmaster Rear Swaybar, Front Roadmaster Swaybar, Koni FSD shocks), which previously helped with handling.

The movement feels like the towed truck is actually pushing the RV's rear side-to-side, making driving extremely uncomfortable. I'm within Michelin's 60-day/2500-mile buy-back period and want to understand why these tires are performing so differently from my previous set.

Could experienced RV owners help me diagnose what might be causing these handling problems? …more
Atwood GC10A-4E Replacement: Best Tankless RV Heaters
Propane Hard 6-8 hours 398 👍

Atwood GC10A-4E Replacement: Best Tankless RV Heaters

Halfway through draining my Atwood GC10A-4E's supposed 10-gallon capacity, the water's already running cold but my gauge shows I've only pulled maybe 6 gallons. Are there any dual-fuel tankless units that would work as a replacement? I know there's no plug-and-play option, but what are the best tankless water heaters that offer both gas and electric operation for RVs? …more
Can You Run an RV Dryer on 30 Amp Shore Power? Complete Guide
Appliances Easy 10 minutes research 389 👍

Can You Run an RV Dryer on 30 Amp Shore Power? Complete Guide

Already dealing with my 2019 Forest River's 4-year-old dryer constantly tripping the breaker — should I repair it or just replace with something more 30-amp friendly? We have a 2024 Tiffin Open Road and I'm not sure if I can use the dryer when we're plugged into a 30 amp hookup at campgrounds.

I've heard mixed things about whether dryers work on 30 amp service or if you need 50 amp. Some people say it depends on the dryer type? I'm honestly not even sure how to tell what voltage our dryer is or what that means for power requirements. Any guidance would be really appreciated! …more
Sailun TerraMax HLT-C Tire Review: Are They Right for Your Class C Motorhome?
Engine Medium 1-2 hours for installation 363 👍

Sailun TerraMax HLT-C Tire Review: Are They Right for Your Class C Motorhome?

Since I'm planning to swap out my RV tires this Saturday — need to confirm these Sailun TerraMax HLT-C 225/75R16C E/10PLY tires are compatible with my Class C motorhome. I've been looking at the Sailun TerraMax HLT-C 225/75R16C E/10PLY tires since they seem like a good value, but I'm not sure if they're appropriate for a motorhome versus a trailer.

I know load ratings are important, but I'm honestly not entirely sure how to figure out if these tires would work safely on my rig. Should I be looking at my door placard or getting the actual weight measured? Any guidance would be really helpful since I don't want to make a costly mistake with something as important as tires. …more

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Michelin RV Tire Age: Inspect After 5 Years, Replace by 10
Engine Easy 15 minutes to inspect 350 👍

Michelin RV Tire Age: Inspect After 5 Years, Replace by 10

Called three different tire shops this month about my 2020 Newmar Ventana's Michelin 275/70R22.5 tires and all want them replaced just for being 6 years old despite perfect tread. I'm meticulous about tire maintenance - I check air pressure religiously before and after every trip, whether it's a short weekend getaway or an extended cross-country journey like the 5000-mile trip I just completed.

Despite my careful maintenance routine, I experienced a blowout on the right rear inside tire during the final leg of that recent long trip. When the roadside service technician came out to help, he recommended replacing all six tires specifically because of their age, even though the remaining tires still have plenty of tread depth and appear to be in excellent condition visually.

This has me confused because I've heard conflicting advice from other RV owners - some say well-maintained motorhome tires can safely last up to 10 years, while others insist on much shorter replacement intervals. I'm trying to understand what the actual safety guidelines are for RV tire replacement based on age versus tread wear. Should I really replace tires that still look good just because of when they were manufactured? What's the real story on how tire age affects safety, and how do I properly check the manufacturing date to make this decision? …more
RV Engine Stalling & Transmission Issues - Diagnosis Help
Engine Medium 2-4 hours diagnosis 349 👍

RV Engine Stalling & Transmission Issues - Diagnosis Help

Replaced multiple parts but I'm still standing in the auto parts store aisle staring at diagnostic tools with no clue which one I actually need for my RV's stalling and transmission issues. When I'm cruising and let off the gas, sometimes the RPMs drop like a rock, other times they just hang there until I slow down more. That's weird enough, but here's the real kicker - every now and then the whole engine just dies on me when I'm rolling up to a stop sign or red light. Maybe happens twice in 600 miles or so, so it's not constant but definitely not normal either.

I'm wondering if these two issues are connected somehow? Like could whatever's causing the stalling also be messing with how the transmission acts when I let off the throttle? Really hoping someone has seen this combo before because I'm in Germany and finding RV-specific help is tough.

I'm looking for any insights from folks who might know what could cause this - hoping to get to the bottom of this before it becomes a bigger problem! …more
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