My 2008 Winnebago Adventurer 38J has an HWH 625S hydraulic system. The passenger slide won't extend or retract from the wall switch, but when I manually operate the solenoid valves, the slide moves perfectly in both directions.
I've already replaced the solenoid valves, so I know they're good. The problem seems to be that power isn't reaching the solenoids from the switch - everything routes through the control box first.
Can I safely bypass the HWH control box by connecting the switch wires directly to the solenoid wires? What should I check before attempting this bypass?
When your HWH 625S slide solenoids work manually but not from the switch, the issue is likely in the control box wiring or internal components. You can bypass the control box by connecting switch wires directly to solenoid wires, but proper diagnosis should be done first.
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Based on your 2008 Winnebago Adventurer 38J with the HWH 625S system, you can bypass the control box temporarily for testing, but it's not a permanent solution. Since your slide operates when you manually activate the solenoid valves but won't respond to the wall switch, the issue is likely in the control module's internal circuitry rather than relays or fuses. The HWH 625S control box contains solid-state switching circuits and logic boards that can fail without affecting the leveling functions. Before bypassing anything, you should test the wall switch and verify power is reaching the control box inputs, as this will help determine if you need a new control module (consult HWH for current part number, around $800-1200) or just switch replacement.
The HWH 625S system uses a sophisticated control module that processes signals from multiple inputs - your wall switch, ignition interlock, emergency stop, and leveling system status. When slide functions fail but leveling works fine, it typically indicates failure in the slide control circuitry within the module. These control boxes contain printed circuit boards with transistors and integrated circuits that can fail due to voltage spikes, moisture intrusion, or simply age-related component degradation after 15+ years of service.
The reason your manual solenoid operation works is because you're bypassing all the electronic controls and directly energizing the valve coils. The fact that it won't work in either direction from the switch strongly suggests the control module isn't sending 12V power to either the extend or retract solenoid circuits. Unlike older systems that used simple relays, the 625S uses solid-state switching that can fail internally while still allowing other functions to operate normally.
Start by testing the wall switch before considering any bypass. With your multimeter, check for 12V at the control box input terminals when you operate the slide switch - you should see voltage on the appropriate input wire when pressing extend or retract. If you're getting 12V input but no output to the solenoids, your control module has failed internally.
For temporary bypass testing, first disconnect power to the system, then identify the slide switch input wires at the control box (usually lighter gauge wires coming from the interior) and the output wires going to your solenoids. You can temporarily connect the extend input wire directly to the extend output wire using wire nuts or temporary splice connectors, and retract input to retract output. This bypasses the control module's switching circuit entirely. However, this eliminates all safety interlocks - the slide will operate regardless of leveling status, ignition position, or other safety conditions.
If bypass testing confirms the control module is faulty, order a replacement HWH 625S control module. Installation involves carefully labeling and transferring all wire connections to the new unit. The module contains calibrated pressure settings and timing circuits that can't be field-repaired. When installing the new module, ensure all connections are clean and tight, and apply dielectric grease to prevent corrosion.
If you find the wall switch is faulty instead, replacement is straightforward - the HWH switch uses standard 12V switching and can be replaced without any system reprogramming. Always test system operation thoroughly after any repairs, ensuring all safety interlocks function properly before returning the RV to service.
While bypassing for diagnostic purposes is acceptable, running your RV with permanently bypassed slide controls is dangerous and likely violates safety standards. The HWH control system includes important interlocks that prevent slide operation when the jacks are up, engine is running, or other unsafe conditions exist. If you're not comfortable working with 12V electrical systems or reading wiring diagrams, this job requires professional attention.
HWH hydraulic systems operate at high pressure (2000-3000 PSI), and improper electrical connections can cause erratic operation that could damage the slide mechanism or cause personal injury. If your testing reveals control module failure, consider having the replacement installed by an HWH authorized service center, especially if your coach is still under any extended warranty coverage. They can also verify all safety functions operate correctly.
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