The ignition relay on a 1988 Ford E350 (Fleetwood Tioga base) is typically located in the engine bay fuse/relay box on the driver's side firewall, or in a separate relay box near the battery. Some models may have it mounted on the firewall or inner fender well.
Yes, balance beads can be used with internal TPMS sensors without damaging them, but there are specific considerations for bead size and installation method. Many RVers have successfully used this combination.
The Ford F53 V10 comes with a 195°F thermostat from the factory, but many RV owners successfully run 180°F thermostats for better cooling under heavy loads. The 5.4L and 6.8L V10 use different thermostat housings, so parts aren't interchangeable.
You can access cylinders 1 and 2 on the E450 V10 by carefully flexing wire harnesses, using flexible extensions, and working from underneath the coach. Remove the engine cover and air intake box first for better access without disconnecting major harness brackets.
Year of storage without stabilizer causes carburetor varnish. Carburetor needs thorough cleaning or rebuild - soaking, jet cleaning, new gaskets. Running rough and stalling under load are classic symptoms of blocked jets from old fuel residue.
Carpet cleaning chemicals likely left residue or stripped floor finish. Deep clean with water and vinegar, then apply floor restorer like Rejuvenate or Bona Polish for your floor type. Multiple thin coats work best to restore shine.
Koni FSD shocks are excellent for the Bounder 35K - they self-adjust for road conditions and noticeably improve ride quality. Bilstein 4600 is a more affordable proven option. Either provides significant improvement over factory shocks. Budget 00-1800 for complete set.
You're absolutely right to be concerned - most RV water heaters don't have built-in dry-fire protection, and running them empty can cause serious damage. You need to install an aftermarket safety device or develop better operational habits to prevent this dangerous situation.
On the Ford V-10 engine, the temperature sending unit is located on the front of the engine block, typically on the driver's side near the thermostat housing. It's a brass or plastic sensor with a single wire connector.
E-450 captain chair armrests usually not factory adjustable. Options include seat cushion to raise yourself, modifying mounting brackets, or aftermarket replacement seats with adjustable armrests.
Large unused plugs in Ford E450 engine bays are typically for optional equipment like auxiliary transmission coolers, engine block heaters, or upfitter switches that weren't installed on your specific RV configuration.
Your comprehensive rebuild plan is solid, but focus on structural integrity preservation, proper moisture barriers, and weight distribution. Critical areas include electrical safety, plumbing rerouting, and maintaining slide-out mechanisms.
RV window screens usually pop out with tabs or spring clips - no screws needed. Push tabs inward and pull, or use a long-handled window cleaning tool to reach behind the screen.
Exterior reflective covers with insulation are most effective for hot window frames. Block sun before it heats aluminum. Attach with suction cups, snaps, or tie-downs. DIY with Reflectix works well. Interior solutions help but exterior blocking is superior.
U-shape dinette curved sections often too large for RV doors. Options include removing upholstery first to separate frame further, window removal, or in-coach upholstery work. Document everything with photos before disassembly.