Popular New Guides Product Guides Tools Checklists My Rig

Results for "used RV"

787+ Q&A Updated Weekly Free
RV Inverter Guide: Modified vs Pure Sine Wave - Safe Power
Solar Batteries Medium 4-6 hours for inverter replacement 414 👍 1

RV Inverter Guide: Modified vs Pure Sine Wave - Safe Power

My multimeter's out and I'm ready to tackle this RV electrical mess myself — pretty sure the inverter's the culprit but need to know where to start. I have a 2000 Winnebago Ultimate Advantage with four deep cycle house batteries and recently installed a Xantrex 758 inverter to replace my old Freedom 15 unit. The first time I tried using the inverter power while unplugged from shore power, something very strange happened - a hair dryer in the bathroom started running by itself and wouldn't shut off when I tried the switch. I had to unplug it, and the handle was warm. The hair dryer appears to be ruined now.

When I bought the Xantrex 758, I paid around $725 for what I thought was a good unit, but I'm now learning there's a difference between modified sine wave and pure sine wave inverters. I wasn't aware of this distinction when I made the purchase, and it turns out the 758 is a modified sine wave unit. I've since heard that modern electronics, especially things like residential refrigerators, computers, and sensitive electronic components, can be damaged by modified sine wave power.

I'm really concerned about potentially damaging my new residential refrigerator, stereo system, and computer equipment. Should I be worried about using this modified sine wave inverter with modern RV electronics? Is the hair dryer incident a sign that I need to upgrade to a pure sine wave unit, or are there other factors that could have caused this problem? I'm trying to understand if my current setup is putting my expensive electronics at risk. …more
RV Flat Tire on Highway: Emergency Steps & Specialized Roadside Service Tips
Chassis Medium Varies 231 👍 1

RV Flat Tire on Highway: Emergency Steps & Specialized Roadside Service Tips

Every highway mile seems to be eating through my Tiffin Allegro motorhome tires way faster than it should, especially after that brutal double blowout on the back axle. When this happened to us, we found that regular AAA and typical roadside assistance don't always help with RVs. We were stranded and eventually had to use a service called Driving Solutions, who charged us $1600 for used tires after eight hours of waiting.

What's the proper procedure if this happens? Should I try to move to a safer location first, or stop immediately? Who should I call for help - are there specialized services that handle RV tires? I want to be prepared with the right contacts and know the safe steps to take, because I imagine regular tow trucks and tire services might not have the equipment or expertise to handle a large motorhome tire emergency on the interstate. …more
Best Cummins 6.7 Scan Tools for RV Diesel & DPF Regen
General Medium 30 min research 230 👍

Best Cummins 6.7 Scan Tools for RV Diesel & DPF Regen

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
Best Mobile RV Repair Apps and Services: Complete Guide
General Easy 15 min research 226 👍 1

Best Mobile RV Repair Apps and Services: Complete Guide

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
Fix RV Low Water Pressure on City Connection: Troubleshooting Pump Assembly
Plumbing Easy 30 minutes 215 👍

Fix RV Low Water Pressure on City Connection: Troubleshooting Pump Assembly

Last week my pressure regulator started reading a solid 40 PSI on city water but my water pump keeps cycling on for 5-6 seconds when everything says it should stay completely off. When I connect to city water, my water pressure regulator shows a solid 40 PSI, which should be plenty, right? But here's the weird part - my water pump keeps kicking on for about 5-6 seconds then shuts off, even though I'm connected to city water and the pump switch is supposed to be off.

The really frustrating thing is that the pressure feels weak throughout the RV, with specifically the bathroom sink and kitchen sink seeming low, though the shower has good pressure. I've already changed out the intake/check valve and don't currently have a filter in the system. I can see the pump running while on city water, which I know is not normal. I noticed the kitchen and bathroom sink screens were plugged - which might explain some pressure issues - but now I'm wondering about the toilet's low pressure. Could there be a screen in the toilet line I'm not seeing?

I've been full-timing for two years and never had this issue before. What should I be checking for? I'm handy enough to do basic repairs but need to know where to focus my troubleshooting efforts. …more
Safari Motorcoach LPG Tank Refill for Stationary RV Setup
Electrical Medium 1-2 hours research and setup 211 👍 1

Safari Motorcoach LPG Tank Refill for Stationary RV Setup

Between my toolbox and the YouTube tutorials I've watched, I'm ready to tackle the LPG tank refill setup on my permanently parked 2000 Safari Sahar 32-footer. Since my wife and I live in California and visit several times per year to help her aging parents, the RV serves as a stationary dwelling with full hookups for shore power and water.

The challenge is that the coach won't be moved to drive to propane filling stations, so I'm exploring on-site refill options. I'm specifically interested in potentially transferring propane from a standard 40lb grill tank to our RV's fixed tank. I want to understand what type of fitting our Safari Sahar has and what safety considerations or special equipment might be required for liquid-to-liquid propane transfer.

Since we'll need heating during colder months and my wife will sometimes be at the RV without me, I want to ensure a reliable and safe refill method. What are my options for refilling the LPG tank without moving the motorcoach? …more

Still stuck on this repair?

Get a personalized answer from a verified RV mechanic. Describe your issue and get step-by-step help.

Chat with an RV Mechanic
27708 RV owners helped · Avg response under 5 min
RV Solar Panel Z Bracket Installation: Drill vs Adhesive Mounting Guide
Solar Batteries Medium 2-3 hours 197 👍

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
How to Fix RV Garage Door Delamination: Complete Repair Guide
Exterior Hard 2-4 hours 191 👍

How to Fix RV Garage Door Delamination: Complete Repair Guide

Finally facing the inevitable with my 1994 Fleetwood Jamboree Rallye garage doors that are 30 years old and completely delaminating at the seams — repair or replace? The extruded aluminum frame corners that are supposed to be screwed together are failing because the screws keep breaking under stress. What started as minor separation has now progressed to the point where the structural integrity of the entire door system is compromised.

I've noticed that not only are the corner joints failing, but the door panels themselves seem to be separating from their backing material, and the weather seals around the perimeter are starting to pull away as well. The doors don't close properly anymore, leaving gaps that let in water and debris. I'm concerned about further damage to the garage area and contents if I don't address this comprehensively.

I need a complete repair approach that addresses the delamination issue, reinforces the structural components, and replaces the failing seals. Simply adding corner braces feels like a band-aid solution, and I'm worried about drilling out the broken screws without causing more damage to the aluminum frame. What's the proper way to tackle this type of comprehensive garage door repair on an older RV? …more
Sony VCB-62MH RV Camera Monitor Replacement: Complete Installation Guide for RV Coaches
Electrical Medium 3-4 hours 186 👍

Sony VCB-62MH RV Camera Monitor Replacement: Complete Installation Guide for RV Coaches

Already cleared my Saturday schedule to swap out this Sony VCB-62MH RV camera monitor — what tools and prep work should I have ready beforehand? The Sony VCB-62MH rear view camera monitor in my 2008 Phaeton finally died, and of course Sony doesn't make them anymore. I've been searching everywhere for a replacement but everything I find is either way too big for the existing dash opening or doesn't work with the Sony cameras that are still perfectly fine.

I really don't want to replace the entire camera system - that would cost a fortune and the cameras work great. I just need the monitor replaced. Has anyone successfully found a workaround that reuses the existing Sony cameras and wiring? I'd love to keep the automatic switching feature for the side cameras when using turn signals if possible, but at this point I just need something that works and fits in the dash opening. …more
Lippert Power Gear Slide Motor Replacement Guide
Slideouts Medium 2-4 hours 164 👍

Lippert Power Gear Slide Motor Replacement Guide

Walked out to prep our RV this morning and discovered our Lippert Power Gear slide motor is making grinding noises and won't extend properly. My RV's slide motor is failing and I'm trying to figure out the best way to get replacement parts. The slide is getting sluggish and I suspect it's either the motor brushes or possibly something in the gearbox itself.

I've been searching everywhere for Lippert Power Gear parts but I'm not sure where to look or what my options are. As it stands, the replacement parts are ridiculously expensive - a $100 gearbox, $50 brake, and $100 motor, but Lippert wants nearly $1000 for the whole assembly. I just want to replace the brushes, but they won't even sell those separately!

Can I buy just the motor component, or do I need to replace the entire gearbox assembly? I really need to know where I can actually purchase these parts and how to determine whether it's a motor issue or a gear problem before I spend a fortune on the wrong repair! …more
Glendinning Power Cord Reel Problems (2020+ Models)
Appliances Medium 45 minutes 163 👍

Glendinning Power Cord Reel Problems (2020+ Models)

The neighbor's 2020 Glendinning power cord reel works flawlessly while mine keeps having slip ring connection failures despite the supposed dielectric grease fix. I'm looking at their newer post-2020 units but still concerned about long-term reliability issues that plagued earlier models.

Should I trust the updated slip ring design or go with their Cable Master bucket system instead? The Cable Master uses a bucket to house the wound-up power cord, which eliminates the slip ring issue, but the bay with the Transfer Switch might be too small for my specific setup.

Need to know if the 2020+ models actually solved the connection problems or if I should stick with the more reliable bucket design despite the potential space constraints. …more
RV Hot Water Pressure Problems: How to Fix a Stuck Backflow Preventer in Your Water System
Plumbing Medium 1-2 hours 160 👍

RV Hot Water Pressure Problems: How to Fix a Stuck Backflow Preventer in Your Water System

About four years into owning my 2019 Winnebago, the hot water pressure is starting to completely tank — should I repair this backflow preventer or replace the whole unit? My 2002 Winnebago with an Atwood 10 gallon water heater just lost all hot water pressure overnight. Cold water works perfectly fine, but turn that handle to hot and... nothing. Zero pressure at any faucet.

The weird thing is the tank itself has hot water and pressure - I can open the relief valve and water shoots out fine with good pressure. It's like something is blocking the hot water from getting out of the tank to the faucets. I've checked what I can reach and don't see any obvious blockages in the lines.

Anyone know what could cause hot water pressure to just disappear like this while cold water works normally? There's gotta be something simple I'm missing here. …more
Max's Vinyl Decal Restorer Review - RV Graphics Results
Exterior Easy 2-3 hours for application 159 👍

Max's Vinyl Decal Restorer Review - RV Graphics Results

About to give up on Max's Vinyl Decal Restorer after treating my faded RV graphics yesterday — they still look dull and lifeless, did I mess something up? You know the drill - see something on social media, think "this is THE ONE," order it with way too much hope, and usually end up disappointed.

Well, I just tried Max's Vinyl Decal Restorer after seeing it recommended online. I prepped the graphics with Soft Scrub and a big sponge (nothing too harsh), then applied a few coats of Max's. The results aren't "like new" but definitely a great improvement over the sad, sun-beaten decals I started with.

Here's the real test though - after application, my RV survived a week of solid rain, then a week of camping, followed by a full soapy wash. And the graphics STILL look good! Has anyone else tried this stuff? Am I getting my hopes up for nothing, or did I actually stumble onto something that works? …more

Need a second opinion?

Not sure if this applies to your rig? An RV technician can confirm the fix for your specific make and model.

Ask an RV Expert
27708 RV owners helped · Avg response under 5 min
Complete Guide to RV Control Panel Lights and Display Meanings
Appliances Easy 10 minutes 158 👍

Complete Guide to RV Control Panel Lights and Display Meanings

Dashboard has about 15 different indicator lights and half of them just came on after hooking up at a new campground. Some I recognize from the manual but a few aren't even documented. Need to understand what each light and display reading actually means before I start troubleshooting. …more
RV Hydroboost Brake System Leak: Repair Guide & Solutions
Chassis Hard 4-6 hours 156 👍

RV Hydroboost Brake System Leak: Repair Guide & Solutions

Around my neighborhood, opinions on hydroboost fluid seepage are all over the map—my neighbor calls it normal wear, the RV dealer screams safety hazard, and YouTube mechanics can't agree either. It's not a major leak - just some dampness and staining where it mounts. I'm remembering a previous forum discussion where a user named Subford had similar seepage years ago and wanted to follow up on their experience.

The seeping seems minor right now, but I'm worried it could suddenly get worse while we're on the road. I had attached a picture similar to one I saw in an older forum post. Should I stop driving immediately and get it fixed? Or is some seeping normal and okay to monitor?

My main questions: Is minor hydroboost seeping immediately dangerous? Did Subford ever end up replacing their hydroboost? What does the replacement job involve? I want to be safe but also don't want to panic if this isn't urgent. …more
Robert, RV Mechanic
Ask an RV Mechanic Avg reply < 5 min

My Rig Settings

Hi, I'm Hank!
Need help setting up? I can walk you through it
Rig Info
Give it a name you'll recognize
Power & Electrical
Climate Control
Water System
Refrigerator Type
Leveling System
Convenience & Features
Sync across devices

Rig Saved to Cloud

Your sync code (use this to load your profile on another device):

Write this down! There is no way to recover it if you lose it and clear your browser.