Results for "rv mechanic"

Electrical Medium 2-6 hours 302 👍 4

RV Electrical Problems: 12V & 120V Troubleshooting Guide 2024

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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Engine Hard Not recommended 159 👍 0

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

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General Easy 15 min research 154 👍 1

Best Mobile RV Repair Apps and Services: Complete Guide 2024

Since my RV broke down I'm standing in the app store staring at dozens of mobile repair services with no clue which one actually works. This made me realize how valuable a comprehensive resource for mobile RV repair services would be.

Are there apps, websites, or forums that maintain an up-to-date list of mobile RV repair, tire repair, and towing services across the country? I'm interested in hearing about recommendations from experienced RV owners who have used these services and can vouch for their reliability and responsiveness.

What strategies do other RV travelers use to find quick, trustworthy mobile repair services when they're stuck in an unfamiliar area? …more

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Product Ranking 8 compared

Best RV Surge Protectors

4.6 (14,200 reviews)

General Medium 30 min research 149 👍 0

Best Cummins 6.7 Scan Tools for RV Diesel Diagnosis & DPF Regen (2024

The internet seems to give me six different answers about which scan tool actually works with my 2019 Fleetwood's Cummins 6.7L—am I missing something obvious here? Need comprehensive coverage for reading and clearing fault codes, monitoring engine parameters, and performing forced DPF regeneration cycles.

Considering several options including the Foxwell HD500, Ancel heavy-duty scanners, and various BlueFire/Inline adapters available through different suppliers. Price ranges vary significantly from budget OBD2 adapters to professional-grade diagnostic equipment.

Looking for detailed comparison of available scan tools specifically for Cummins 6.7 applications - both professional-grade and DIY-friendly options. What are the key features, compatibility considerations, and real-world performance differences between the various diagnostic solutions for this engine platform? …more

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General Easy 30 min maintenance 138 👍 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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Appliances Medium 3-4 hours 125 👍 0

Best RV Thermostatic Shower Mixing Valves 2024 - Installation Guide

According to my screaming every morning, there's this scalding burn followed by an icy shock sensation hitting my back in my RV shower. There's no middle ground - it's like my water heater has anger management issues.

I'm shopping for a thermostatic mixing valve to save myself from daily temperature shock therapy. I keep seeing mechanical models like the Symmons Temptrol and Phoenix PF213200, but honestly have no idea if they're any good. And don't get me started on those fancy digital ones like the Kohler DTV+ - they look amazing but I'm guessing they're about as RV-friendly as a pet elephant.

Anyone know which thermostatic valves actually work well in RVs without requiring me to rewire half my rig or sacrifice my firstborn to the plumbing gods? …more

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General Easy 15-30 min 119 👍 0

RV Windshield Washer System: Complete Maintenance Guide & Troubleshooting Tips

Somewhere between following three different YouTube tutorials, I managed to turn my RV's windshield washer repair into a sprinkler system that hits everything except the actual windshield. The specific issue I'm experiencing is fluid running back into the reservoir after each use, which means washer fluid isn't effectively hitting bugs before they dry and smear. I actually found a clever solution - using an aquarium air pump check valve from PetSmart for just $3.00. Sometimes it's these little fixes that make a big difference.

Sometimes the washer sprays like a garden sprinkler gone rogue, other times it dribbles like a leaky faucet. The fluid seems to have a mind of its own - either freezing up in cold weather or not hitting the windshield where it's supposed to.

I'm dealing with nozzles that spray everywhere except where the bugs are, a reservoir that I can never seem to locate when it's empty, and wipers that just smear everything around instead of actually cleaning. Could someone help me troubleshoot and confirm if my check valve solution might help? …more

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Ac Refrigeration Medium 45 minutes 108 👍 0

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

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Electrical Medium 2-4 hours 105 👍 0

How to Protect Your RV Alternator When Charging Lithium Batteries: DC-

Tried everything my neighbor did to charge his LiFePO4 batteries but mine keeps frying the alternator while his works flawlessly — what's different? I want to install a temperature sensing device that can interrupt charging by opening the solenoid between chassis and house charging systems if the alternator gets too hot. I'm looking to spec out components and understand the installation process, and I'm open to hearing why this might not be a good approach. My goal is preventing alternator overheating when these lithium batteries draw high current compared to my old flooded or AGM batteries. I'm looking for technical feedback and am totally open to critique. …more

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Engine Easy 15 minutes 105 👍 0

5 Star Tuner X4 for Ford V10 RV: Complete Performance & Upgrade Guide

Planning to tune my 2018 Ford 6.8L V10 RV but got quoted $800 for professional tuning and wondering if the 5 Star X4 is DIY-friendly. Specifically want to know about real-world performance improvements - does it actually improve throttle response and shift points? What about fuel economy gains?

Which of the 3 programs works best for RV towing? Is the investment worth it for better drivability or just hype? …more

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Plumbing Medium 1-2 hours 102 👍 0

RV Heater Lines Reversed: How to Diagnose and Fix Hot Dashboard Air

Dashboard vents are blowing hot air even with the heater off and the AC running. Drove three hours in 95-degree heat with hot air hitting my face the whole time. Mechanic says the heater hose lines might be reversed from a previous repair job. …more

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Best RV Air Conditioners

4.4 (8,100 reviews)

Plumbing Medium 1-2 hours 101 👍 0

RV Black Tank Flush Not Working - Water Wont Go In

According to my neighbor I need to replace the valve, the RV dealer says it's just a clog, and YouTube insists it's a pump issue with my 2012 36 QSP's black tank flush system. When I connect my hose to the flush port and turn on the water, nothing seems to go into the tank - the water just doesn't flow in like it should.

I'm wondering if there's a check valve that might be stuck or if something is clogged up? I've used the flush connection earlier in the year without any problems, so this is puzzling. I've heard about debris getting in the spray nozzle too. What are the most common causes when the black tank flush won't accept water, and what should I try to fix it? Any guidance would be really appreciated since I'm not sure what to troubleshoot first! …more

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Solar Batteries Medium 2-3 hours 101 👍 0

RV Solar Panel Z Bracket Installation: Drill vs Adhesive Mounting Guide

Ready to mount solar panels on the roof but torn between drilling through the fiberglass with Z-brackets or using VHB tape adhesive mounts. Terrified of roof leaks from drill holes but also worried the adhesive won't hold at highway speeds. Which mounting method actually holds up long term? …more

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Engine Medium 2 hours 97 👍 0

Ford V-10 Misfire Codes P0305 & P0307: Complete RV Engine Repair Guide for Motorhomes

Turned my compression tester on cylinders 5 and 7 and got 150 PSI readings, but I'm still pulling P0305 and P0307 misfire codes on my 2001 Ford E350 V-10. The engine runs smoothly overall, but the diagnostic codes are persistent.

I have replacement spark plugs and ignition coils available but want to ensure I'm following the proper troubleshooting sequence before investing time and effort. What is the recommended diagnostic approach for simultaneous misfires on cylinders 5 and 7?

Given that multiple cylinders are affected, should I prioritize certain components over others, or is there a systematic order that typically yields the most efficient resolution for this engine configuration? …more

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Engine Medium 1-2 hours 95 👍 0

Ford F53 V10 Bypass Oil Filter Installation: Best Mounting Locations for RV Chassis

Walked out to check my oil analysis results and they're showing 15-micron contaminants, but everything says my 2003 F53 V10's factory filter catches down to 25 microns. I've been reading about how these can help extend oil life and keep things cleaner, but I'm honestly not sure where the best place to mount one would be.

I've seen some people mention sandwich adapters at the original filter location, remote mounting blocks, and even tapping directly into the engine block. As someone who's still learning, I don't want to mess this up or create problems down the road. What's considered the best practice for mounting location on the F53 V10? I'd really appreciate some guidance from those who have done this before. …more

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