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RV Windshield Washer System: Complete Maintenance Guide & Troubleshooting Tips
General Easy 15-30 min 119 👍

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
Ford E-450 RV Shock Absorber Upgrade Guide: Bilstein 4600 vs Koni FSD
Engine Medium 2-3 hours 100 👍

Ford E-450 RV Shock Absorber Upgrade Guide: Bilstein 4600 vs Koni FSD

Before spending hundreds on new tires and suspension parts for my 2023 Ford E-450 Class C motorhome, the ride quality is still absolutely brutal. The RV is about 28 feet long and weighs approximately 14,500 pounds loaded. We use it primarily for family camping trips, but I also occasionally tow a small utility trailer with dirt bikes - probably 25% of our trips involve towing that extra 2,000-3,000 pounds.

I've been researching shock absorber upgrades and have narrowed it down to two main options that seem popular in the RV community: the Bilstein 4600 series and the Koni FSD (Frequency Selective Damping) shocks. I understand both are significant improvements over stock, but I'm trying to understand the practical differences between them for my specific setup and usage patterns.

What I really need to know is which option provides the best balance of ride comfort improvement, handling stability (especially when towing), and overall value for money on the E-450 chassis. I want to make sure I'm making the right choice since this is a fairly significant investment and I don't want to have buyer's remorse later. …more
F53 Rear Pinion Seal Replacement: Complete Dana 17060 RV Axle Repair Guide
Engine Hard 6-8 hours 84 👍

F53 Rear Pinion Seal Replacement: Complete Dana 17060 RV Axle Repair Guide

I replaced my Dana 17060 rear pinion seal myself after getting quoted $1,800 for my 2018 Allegro 32SA and saved a fortune. I've been researching this repair and I'm honestly getting overwhelmed by what I'm reading about the complexity.

The more I dig into this, the more concerned I'm getting about the specialized tools needed and the precision required. I'm specifically wondering about the 650 lb torque specification, finding a socket that fits the nut and can work with a 1-inch drive, and the best method for removing a potentially loctited nut.

Is this realistically a DIY job for someone with decent mechanical skills? I've already marked my components for driveline alignment, but I'm unsure about seal removal tools, whether to use heat for nut removal, and if I should use loctite when reinstalling.

Is this something I should attempt myself or just pay for professional work? How long does this type of repair typically take, and what am I really looking at in terms of complexity? …more
Ford V10 RV Engine: Is Full Synthetic Oil Better Than Synthetic Blend for Performance?
Engine Easy 30 minutes 84 👍

Ford V10 RV Engine: Is Full Synthetic Oil Better Than Synthetic Blend for Performance?

Planning my next oil change but my viscosity readings are hitting breakdown at 3,000 miles when everything says synthetic blend should last 5,000 in my 2008 Ford V10. The owner's manual specifies Motorcraft 5W-20 synthetic blend oil, which I've been using consistently. However, I've identified that Costco's Kirkland brand offers 5W-20 full synthetic at a lower cost point than my current oil.

From a technical standpoint, would transitioning from synthetic blend to full synthetic oil provide any measurable benefits for RV engine protection? I need to verify that the Kirkland full synthetic meets Ford's engine specifications before making this change. What are the performance differences between these oil formulations for heavy-duty RV applications? …more
How to Install Saginaw Power Steering Pump on 1990-1998 Ford RV Chassis: A Complete Guide
Engine Hard 3-4 hours 68 👍

How to Install Saginaw Power Steering Pump on 1990-1998 Ford RV Chassis: A Complete Guide

Apparently I'm now the proud owner of a used RV with a 1990-1998 Ford 460 engine chassis and this power steering pump is making terrifying noises. DM MOTORSPORTS offers a complete upgrade kit with a Saginaw pump rated at much higher pressure for notably improved steering response.

I'm particularly concerned about whether I need special parts or if I can just bolt it on. What exactly do I need to make sure this conversion is done properly? I want to understand the specific installation steps to ensure I don't end up with steering problems or safety issues while driving my RV. …more
E4OD Transmission Rebuild Guide: Motorhome vs Truck Torque Converter Differences
Engine Hard Several days 65 👍

E4OD Transmission Rebuild Guide: Motorhome vs Truck Torque Converter Differences

Planning my annual spring RV prep for the 1994 motorhome, that stubborn E4OD transmission keeps reminding me the rebuild I've been avoiding can't wait another season. I'm specifically wondering if the motorhome E4OD has a unique torque converter compared to truck models. When I get this transmission on the workbench, what should I know about finding the right torque converter? Are there any key differences I need to watch out for? I want to make sure I order the correct parts and do this rebuild correctly. …more
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