Results for "advice"

Electrical Medium 30 min read 131 👍 0

RV DC Electrical System: Expert Guide to 12 Volt Systems

Opened my RV this morning to find the 12V system going haywire — lights dimming randomly, fans slowing down, and the inverter shutting off despite full batteries.

Specifically, I need to understand the fundamentals of RV batteries - different types, proper sizing, charging requirements, and maintenance. I'm also confused about DC wiring best practices, what gauge wire to use for different applications, how to properly route and protect circuits, and where fuses and breakers should go. Voltage monitoring is another area where I'm lost - I see all these battery monitors and don't know what I actually need or how to interpret the readings.

I'm also planning some system upgrades down the road like adding solar or upgrading to lithium batteries, so I'd love to understand how all these components work together and what I need to consider for future modifications. Is there a comprehensive resource that covers all aspects of RV DC electrical systems from batteries and wiring through monitoring and upgrades? …more

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Engine Easy 15 minutes to inspect 131 👍 0

RV Tire Age Limits: Why Replace Michelin Tires After 7 Years Despite Good Tread

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

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Plumbing Medium 30 min 86 👍 0

RV Sewer Hose Freezing Temperature & Cold Weather Protection

Nobody can seem to agree on whether I should winterize my RV sewer hose system now or wait until temperatures actually threaten my specific setup. Current setup involves a dual-hose configuration with approximately 30 feet total length running to septic connection point.

Critical issue: The final two feet of hose rises approximately two inches above the main run elevation before connecting to the septic inlet. This creates a low point where effluent can accumulate rather than draining completely. Overnight temperatures are forecast to drop to 25°F for the next 48 hours.

What is the precise freezing temperature for RV sewer hoses, and does the uphill section with potential standing water create additional freeze risk at this temperature threshold? …more

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Best RV Batteries

4.5 (15,400 reviews)

Engine Easy Informational 85 👍 0

AGS Starting RV Generator with AC Load: Modern Systems vs Old Rules

I noticed I'm getting wildly different advice about whether my AGS should start the generator when AC kicks on—some say it'll fry contacts, others say it's fine?

I'm wondering if modern AGS systems have addressed these older concerns about generator startup under load. Is starting the generator directly through AGS when the AC demands cooling safe for the system? Would it be better to manually start the generator before leaving to allow a warm-up period, or is the current automatic load engagement fine with contemporary RV generator technology? …more

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Exterior Medium 2-4 hours 84 👍 0

RV Awning Water Damage: Complete Repair vs Replace Guide (2024)

Tried getting quotes for my water-damaged RV awning and the $800 replacement estimate has me wondering if I can tackle this repair myself instead. Water pooled on it during a light rain because I had the angle wrong, and now something seems to be wrong with the spring mechanism - it's not retracting properly anymore.

I'm afraid to mess with it further without knowing what I'm dealing with. How can I safely assess whether the fabric, spring, or roller tube is damaged? I need to know if this is something I can repair or if I'm looking at a complete replacement. I don't want to make things worse by trying the wrong approach. …more

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Engine Medium 3-4 hours 83 👍 0

1999 Pace Arrow F53 Fuel Pump Replacement - Expert Advice

According to my troubleshooting so far, I've replaced the fuel filter, cleaned the fuel lines, checked all the connections, and even swapped relays — but my 1999 Pace Arrow F53 still won't get fuel to the engine. The original fuel pump has been operational for 27 years, exposed to gasoline storage conditions throughout this period.

Given the extended service life and potential for roadside failure, I'm evaluating whether proactive fuel pump replacement represents sound maintenance strategy. Seeking technical assessment on replacement timing and expected performance outcomes with quality aftermarket units from established suppliers.

What are the documented results from similar preventive fuel pump replacements on this chassis configuration? Is the investment in preemptive replacement justified based on reliability data? …more

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General Easy Varies by solution 83 👍 0

How to Fix Peeling RV Seat Upholstery: Repair Options & Costs

Last time I looked at my 2013 Georgetown 335DS front seats there's faux leather flaking off everywhere like the outer layer is just disintegrating. I've tried conditioning treatments but nothing seems to help.

I'm hoping this isn't going to be a huge expense, but I need to know my realistic options here. Should I expect any warranty coverage on something like this, or am I on my own? I've heard about seat covers, reupholstery, or maybe even replacing the whole seats, but I have no idea what any of this costs or what makes the most sense.

What's causing this deterioration in the first place, and what are people actually doing to fix it? I need real solutions with honest cost expectations - this RV is otherwise perfect and I don't want crumbling seats ruining the whole experience. …more

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Engine Easy 30-45 minutes 82 👍 0

Ford V10 Oil Capacity: How Much Oil Does Your Newmar Bay Star Really Need?

Since I'm about to buy oil for my 2011 Newmar Bay Star with the Ford V10 engine but keep seeing conflicting capacity numbers — worth getting extra or just wasting money? Classic RV owner move, right?

I keep finding conflicting information online - some sources say 6 quarts, others say 7 quarts for the Ford V10. After my oil change, I'm sitting here staring at my dipstick like it's written in hieroglyphics, wondering if I've turned my engine into a swimming pool or left it high and dry. The manual isn't exactly crystal clear on this either.

Can someone please tell me the ACTUAL oil capacity for this engine? I'd rather not blow up my motor because I can't figure out basic maintenance on my rolling money pit! …more

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Engine Medium 2-3 months research and shopping 78 👍 0

Diesel vs Gas Class A Motorhome for Family of 6: Expert Advice

Three months of research comparing diesel pushers versus gas Class A motorhomes for our family of 6 has left us more confused than ever!

Here's what's driving me crazy - diesel pushers from around 2010-2012 seem like the budget sweet spot, with their quieter engine placement at the rear and more comfortable ride. But we had a devastating mold problem in our last house that affected everyone's health, and I'm terrified of buying an older RV that might have hidden moisture issues.

The newer gas Class A units (2015 and up) seem like they'd be safer from a mold standpoint, but I worry we're sacrificing ride quality and long-term reliability. Since we don't already own a heavy-duty truck, a motorhome seems more practical than a 5th wheel. With four kids, comfort matters, but their health matters more.

Am I overthinking this, or should the mold risk really be the deciding factor here? I just need someone to tell me straight - which way would you go? …more

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Solar Batteries Medium 2-4 hours research and installation 73 👍 0

Lithium Battery Upgrade for 2018 Georgetown RV - Safe?

Thinking about upgrading my 2018 Georgetown from lead acid to lithium batteries but worried about compatibility with the existing converter and charging system. Don't want to spend $2,000 on batteries only to find out I need another $1,500 in electrical upgrades to make them work. …more

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Propane Easy 30 minutes to diagnose 73 👍 0

RV Water Heater Pressure Relief Valve Leaking: Normal or Problem?

Our brand new 2025 Flagstaff Super lite's Suburban water heater has this annoying steady drip-drip-drip sound coming from the pressure relief valve on the outside. Been living in this thing since August and just noticed it last week.

The thing is, it's not constant - sometimes it's bone dry, other times I'll see a drop or two. We keep the electric heater running pretty much 24/7. My dealer mentioned something about draining and creating an air pocket, but honestly I'm not sure if this is just normal behavior for a new unit or if I've got a legit problem on my hands.

Anyone know if a little PRV dripping is just part of the deal with these water heaters, or should I be looking at a warranty claim here? Don't want to be that guy complaining about nothing, but also don't want to ignore something that could turn into a bigger issue down the road. …more

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Best RV Propane Accessories

4.5 (11,200 reviews)

General Easy 30 minutes install 70 👍 0

Hieha TPMS Review 2024: Complete RV Tire Pressure Monitor Test & Comparison Guide

Replaced my old TPMS last month but planning to install this Hieha system Saturday — should I worry about going budget for tire safety? I keep reading horror stories about tire blowouts and I don't want to risk my family's safety with unreliable equipment.

Has anyone actually used the Hieha brand long-term? I'm particularly concerned about accuracy issues and whether the sensors will actually alert me when there's a real problem. Are there better options I should be considering even if they cost more? I'd rather spend extra money upfront than deal with a roadside emergency later. …more

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General Hard 4-8 hours plus sourcing 67 👍 0

Holiday Rambler Front Fender Replacement: Complete Parts & Repair Guide for RV Owners

Called my front fender replacement on my 2018 Holiday Rambler Vacationer XE 32A a success last month but it just detached again while driving — what did I miss? The first time happened to the previous owner, and it just happened to me again on a highway, with the fender completely disappearing. This suggests there's something fundamentally wrong with how it's mounted, not just a one-time failure.

I've contacted REV Group directly, but they told me they no longer have the molds for this specific fender design. The dimensions are quite specific - it's 56 7/8" long by 25" tall, with the wheel opening positioned 28 1/2" from the front edge rather than centered. I've looked at some aftermarket options from companies like ICON, but they require significant modification to fit properly.

Given that this fender has failed twice now, I'm wondering what my best options are for both sourcing a replacement part and addressing whatever underlying mounting issue is causing these repeated failures. Are there reliable sources for Holiday Rambler body panels when the manufacturer no longer stocks them? And what should I be looking for to prevent this from happening a third time? …more

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General Easy 30 minutes 67 👍 0

Air Tabs on RVs: Do They Work? Real Owner Reviews & Better Alternatives

Noticed my neighbor's RV stays rock-steady in crosswinds while mine gets thrown around like a ragdoll every time a truck passes — are Air Tabs really the game-changer? The marketing claims sound good but I want real owner feedback before spending the money.

Do they actually work for improving stability, or are there better alternatives I should consider instead? Looking for honest reviews from people who've actually tried them. …more

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Engine Medium 1-2 hours 65 👍 0

RV DEF Filter Failure: Fix Low Pressure Warning and Engine Derate Issues

After picking up my first Class A motorhome, this DEF system I've never dealt with before keeps throwing low pressure warnings and forcing engine derate mode. It removes the resolution path and specific technical observations that would help another diesel RV owner diagnose a similar issue. …more

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