Results for "pivot bushing"

Apparently we're leaving for a three-week cross-country trip next Monday and my Kwikee electric RV steps are still having intermittent retraction issues even after replacing both the gear box and motor. My steps are exhibiting intermittent retraction issues - they extend normally but require manual assistance to retract fully, stopping approximately a quarter inch through the cycle without intervention. I've already installed a new gear box and motor, yet the problem persists.

What systematic diagnostic approach should I follow to identify the root cause? I need to understand the complete troubleshooting sequence for motor functionality, electrical switch operation, and mechanical linkage components. Are there specific voltage measurements, resistance checks, or mechanical adjustments that should be performed to isolate whether this is an electrical or mechanical failure?

Thanks,
Pete …more

This power awning manual says hold the extend button for 3 seconds, but mine's completely dead and won't budge no matter how long I hold it. When I hit the extend button, it moves out maybe 6-8 inches and then immediately retracts on its own. I have to turn the power switch off and back on each time to get even that little bit of movement.

I'm hesitant to keep forcing it since I don't want to burn out the motor or make whatever's wrong even worse. Could this be an electrical issue with low voltage, or maybe the tracks are too dirty? I've also heard about limit switches causing problems but I'm not sure how to check those safely.

What are the most common causes when an awning does this short extend-then-retract cycle? I want to start with the safest troubleshooting steps before calling a repair shop. …more

Halfway through summer, my '95 F-53 motorhome chassis steering wheel only starts making this weird clunking noise when it's above 85 degrees outside — runs silent the rest of the time. When I hit certain bumps, I get this annoying clunk that I can actually feel through the steering wheel. Had the front end checked and everything seems tight up there, but here's the kicker - when I grab the steering wheel and mess with it, I can push it straight back into the column like I'm trying to compress a spring or something.

Is this normal for these old F-53s or am I looking at some worn out parts? The clunk is definitely coming from somewhere in the steering column area, and that push-in play has me scratching my head. What should I be checking first? …more

Every time I open my RV door these Kwikee steps stay stuck at 90% retracted — should I drop $300+ on replacements or try fixing first?

I'm pretty sure this is either a motor that's given up the ghost or something's binding up in the linkage, but I'd love some confirmation before I start throwing parts at it. Should I be checking for 12V at the motor first, or am I overthinking this? And while we're at it, any preventive maintenance I should do to keep this from happening again? Because apparently my RV has commitment issues with working components. …more

Apparently my 2006 motorhome's hide-a-bed frame started sagging completely to the floor yesterday and now it won't even support a pillow without collapsing. Our 2006 motorhome came with this lovely feature where the hide-a-bed frame has given up on life and decided gravity is its new best friend.

We already invested in a new firm mattress (because apparently throwing money at half the problem seemed logical), but the worn-out frame underneath still creates this romantic "let's all sleep in the middle together" situation. The support system is shot, and getting this whole sofa out for a complete overhaul sounds about as fun as changing a tire in the rain.

Anyone found a quick and dirty fix to stop this sagging madness? I'm hoping there's some clever solution that doesn't involve taking apart half the RV or my entire savings account. What's worked for you when your sofa bed decided to become a hammock? …more

Last week my wife casually mentioned our 2021 Ford E-350 makes creaking noises when turning and now I can't stop hearing those worn I-beam axle pivot bushings failing at just 36K miles. The passenger side tire was wearing really badly on the outside edge, and when I took it in, they found that both I-beam axle pivot bushings were worn out and needed replacement.

What's got me worried is that this happened at only 36,000 miles - that seems really early to me for bushings to fail? The RV is a 2021 model and I did have the rear raised 3/4 inch when I first bought it. Could that modification have caused this problem, or is this just normal wear for these Ford chassis? I'm trying to figure out if I should expect more issues like this or if this was just bad luck. …more

Since my 1995 Ford F-53 motorhome chassis started sagging badly in the rear, is this dangerous with grandkids riding along? The rear end has been gradually sagging lower and lower, and I'm seeking help with two specific needs.

First, I'm searching for a detailed service manual. I've already checked with a Ford dealership who recommended helminc.com, but they don't have the manual. I'm specifically looking for manual code FCS-12214-95 or something similar. I've also searched eBay without success.

Regarding the suspension, the rear is sitting very low. I'm looking for a budget-friendly temporary fix to raise the suspension. I suspect the rear springs might need work, and I'm wondering if additional airbags could help. My primary goal is an affordable interim solution that can prevent potential damage from low clearance.

I'm hoping someone with experience with F-53 chassis motorhomes from this era can provide guidance on both finding the service manual and addressing the suspension sag. What temporary solutions have worked for others in a similar situation? …more