Results for "electrical comparison"

General Easy 30 min maintenance 215 👍 0

RV Slide-Out Maintenance: Complete Guide to Prevent Wear and Extend Lifespan

Before I even finish extending my 2018 Newmar 2702 slide-out, there's this grinding vibration that kicks in during the final positioning phase every single time. The motor works hardest during that last foot of travel when the slide settles into place.

This observation has me questioning optimal maintenance protocols for slide-out longevity. What are the most effective strategies for reducing mechanical wear on these systems? I'm particularly interested in understanding proper usage frequency, seal maintenance requirements, and whether partial extension during routine tasks like cleaning provides any protective benefits.

Looking for comprehensive guidance on preventive maintenance practices, lubrication schedules, and storage considerations that will maximize slide-out system lifespan while minimizing premature component failure. …more

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General Easy Research and comparison 153 👍 0

Tiffin Allegro Bus vs Newmar: Complete Owner's Comparison Guide

Finally decided to stop watching YouTube comparisons between Tiffin Allegro Bus and Newmar coaches since every reviewer contradicts each other and I'm more confused than ever. I've been researching for months and keep going in circles. Currently own a 2019 Tiffin Allegro Bus 40ip and absolutely love it, but we're looking to upgrade to a 45-footer and suddenly questioning everything.

Everyone says both Tiffin and Newmar are top-tier quality, but I need to understand the real differences. What makes each brand stand out? Is Tiffin's customer service really that much better, or is it just hype? Are Newmar's interiors actually more luxurious, or is that just marketing?

I've read every forum post and review I can find, but I really need someone to break down the key differences so I can make a decision and move forward. We're not buying new, looking at newer used models, but this choice is keeping me up at night! …more

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General Medium Varies by issue 151 👍 0

How to Fix RV Slide Out Topper Awning Problems: Common Issues and Solutions for Smooth Operation

Before buying our first RV, I never even knew slide topper awnings existed, and now ours is acting up and I'm completely lost. We're having all three slide toppers professionally replaced next week, but I'm honestly worried we'll end up with the same problems all over again if they're not installed properly.

I've been reading horror stories about misaligned toppers, wrong spring tension, and fabric bunching up during slide operation. Since this is costing us a pretty penny, I really need to know what specific things I should insist the installer check and test before they leave. What are the critical adjustments that need to be made during installation to prevent these common topper problems from happening again? …more

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Product Ranking 8 compared

Best RV Awnings & Accessories

4.5 (7,600 reviews)

Electrical Medium 30-60 minutes 144 👍 0

Surge Guard 40250-RVC vs 40350-RVC Transfer Switch: Complete Comparison Guide

This 8-year-old transfer switch is getting sluggish during power transfers — worth repairing or should I just upgrade to a newer Surge Guard model? I currently have a Surge Guard 40250-RVC in my 2013 motorhome, but I'm having trouble finding that exact model for replacement. All I can seem to find available is the 40350-RVC model.

My current unit has started making a buzzing sound when connected to shore power. Everything still seems to work fine, but I've heard this might indicate the contacts are starting to fail. I'd rather replace it before it completely goes out and leaves me without power.

Can anyone tell me if the 40250-RVC and 40350-RVC are interchangeable? And should I be concerned about the buzzing, or is there anything I can check before replacing the whole unit? …more

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Electrical Easy 10 min read 143 👍 0

Motorhome vs Toy Hauler Electrical Systems Compared

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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Ac Refrigeration Medium 1-2 hours 141 👍 0

Coleman RV AC Remote Sensor Wrong Resistance: Troubleshooting Guide

Our 2013 Phaeton's Coleman AC remote sensor is throwing wrong resistance readings and I've got my multimeter ready to fix this myself — just need the correct values to check against. The remote temp sensor in my living area started reading 99°F constantly, so I checked the resistance and found it was only 9kohms while the working sensor reads 90kohms at 82°F.

I ordered the replacement part 8330-3101 (which supposedly replaces my old 8330-309), but I'm worried because the new sensor ALSO measures 9kohms right out of the package - exactly like my "bad" one. I've tested both thermostats and they work fine when I swap the sensor leads.

I'm hesitant to install this new sensor since the resistance seems wrong. Could I damage my thermostat or AC system if there's a compatibility issue? Should I be measuring resistance differently, or is there a wiring problem I'm missing? I don't want to make things worse by installing the wrong part. …more

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Engine Medium 1-2 hours 138 👍 0

RV Wireless Air Suspension Problems: Complete Troubleshooting Guide

Wireless air suspension controller stopped communicating with the compressor module last week. Bags inflate manually at the valve but the wireless remote and dash controls do nothing. System worked perfectly for two years and just quit. …more

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Engine Easy 15 minutes 137 👍 0

2006 Fleetwood Tioga Fuel Shutoff Switch Location: Complete Guide

Tried everything to get my 2006 Fleetwood Tioga running after it started cutting out randomly yesterday, but can't even find the fuel shutoff switch. I think it might be related to the inertial fuel shutoff switch, but I honestly have no idea where to even start looking for it.

Could someone please help me understand where this switch is typically located on this model? I've heard it could be in a few different spots but I don't want to go tearing apart panels randomly. Any guidance on the most common locations would be really appreciated! …more

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General Easy 30 minutes install 136 👍 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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Ac Refrigeration Hard 4-8 hours 136 👍 0

N3150 RV Refrigerator Replacement: NovaKool R4500 vs Norcold N3141 Comparison Guide

Standing in my 2016 Itasca Navion 24G, I discovered the previous owner left me with a completely shot Norcold N3150 refrigerator. The fridge is struggling big time in hot weather, with temperature swings up to 50-60F, and I'm tired of playing refrigerator roulette every trip. I'm running 200W of solar and 2 Golf Cart 6V batteries, and I do a lot of driving through Southern California deserts where temperatures hit 110F.

Been doing some research and keep seeing two main options - the NovaKool RFU6406D with dual compressors, or sticking with absorption and going with something like the Norcold N2175. I'm particularly interested in a setup that'll keep things cold when it's scorching outside and provide reliable cooling performance.

What's the real-world difference between these two approaches, and which one's gonna give me better performance in those extreme desert heat situations? …more

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Engine Medium 1-2 hours 133 👍 0

1990 Tioga E-350 Won't Start: Complete DIY Troubleshooting Guide

Turned the key in our "new" 1990 Fleetwood Tioga E-350 and my wife immediately said "that's not starting, honey" — now I'm completely stumped. The engine turns over like it wants to start but just won't fire up. I've already replaced the fuel pump inside the tank, but I'm wondering if another pump might need replacement. I don't want to just start throwing parts at it. What's the best systematic approach to figure out why my Tioga won't start? Are there common failure points I should check first on these older E-350 based motorhomes? …more

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Best RV Solar Panel Kits

4.5 (12,700 reviews)

Engine Easy N/A - informational 132 👍 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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Ac Refrigeration Hard 4-6 hours (professional installation) 130 👍 0

Norcold 1201LRIM Dutch Aire Conversion Guide: 12V vs 120V Power Options Explained

Already three fire hazard warnings this season from my Norcold 1201LRIM in my 2003 Winnebago Brave 34D and I'm done playing roulette with this recall nightmare. After 22 years, the absorption cooling system is showing signs of corrosion and I'm concerned about continued operation even with safety devices like Fridge Defend.

I've been researching Dutch Aire conversion options to save my existing refrigerator box, and I'm torn between their 120VAC conversion kit and their 12VDC conversion kit. Both options would allow me to keep the same interior space my wife loves while eliminating the problematic absorption system, but I need to understand the practical differences between these two power options.

My RV has both shore power capability and a decent house battery setup, but I'm not sure which conversion would be more reliable and efficient for our typical camping style. What are the key considerations between choosing the 120VAC versus 12VDC Dutch Aire conversion for the Norcold 1201 series, especially regarding power consumption, electrical system requirements, and overall performance? …more

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Engine Easy N/A 129 👍 0

RV Water Crossing: How to Avoid Engine Damage and Recovery Steps

Woke up to my Winnebago Ekko surrounded by floodwater above the wheel hubs, the engine is completely dead, AND there's moisture creeping into places it definitely shouldn't be. While I haven't noticed any unusual noises or driving behavior, I want to be proactive about potential water exposure damage.

I've checked that the oil isn't milky and brake fluid looks normal. However, I'm concerned about potential impacts on hubs, bearing grease, brake fluid, differential fluid, and transmission fluid from this water exposure.

Has anyone else with an Ekko experienced similar flooding and have recommendations for post-water exposure inspection? Am I being overly cautious about checking various components? I'm hoping to get some expert advice on what specific things I should examine to ensure no long-term damage occurred. …more

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General Easy Research time 128 👍 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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