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Generac 7.5kW Diesel Generator Repair Guide - RV Troubleshooting
Engine Medium 2-4 hours 310 👍

Generac 7.5kW Diesel Generator Repair Guide - RV Troubleshooting

Planning to ignore the weird noises from our Generac 7.5kW diesel generator backfired when my wife pointed out I definitely made things worse during my repair attempt. I have a 2007 Monaco with a Generac 7.5kW diesel generator, and yesterday when I tried starting it, the battery was really weak. I probably held the starter button too long - maybe 15 seconds or so - because it was cranking so slowly and I kept hoping it would catch.

Now when I try to start it, I just get a single click and nothing happens. I'm worried I damaged something by cranking it so long with that weak battery. Should I be looking at the starter solenoid or starter motor? Is there anything I can check myself before I have to take it to a repair shop? I'd really appreciate any guidance on troubleshooting this. …more
ECM Low Battery Warning RV: Complete Diagnosis & Fix Guide
Electrical Medium 2-6 hours 295 👍 1

ECM Low Battery Warning RV: Complete Diagnosis & Fix Guide

During a family trip, my 2005 Fleetwood Discovery 39S threw code 168-1 for low ECM battery voltage and went into full shutdown mode—is this dangerous with kids onboard? Engine cut out, transmission selector went dark, ABS warnings everywhere - the whole nine yards. Scared the heck out of me when it happened on the interstate!

I'm seeing this seems to be a thing with these diesel pushers, but I'm drowning in conflicting info online. Some say it's the chassis battery, others blame alternator issues, and I've even seen posts about ECM power supply problems on the Caterpillar engines. What's the actual step-by-step process to track this down? And more importantly, how do I fix it so it doesn't leave me stranded again? Really need a complete walkthrough of what causes this code and the proper repair approach. …more
Ford V10 Turbo Kit for Motorhomes: Cost, Risks & Better Alternatives
Engine Hard Not recommended 207 👍

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
Best Cummins 6.7 Scan Tools for RV Diesel Diagnosis & DPF Regen (2024
General Medium 30 min research 191 👍

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
RV Tire Replacement: When to Replace by Age - Complete 7 Year Rule Guide
Engine Easy Planning decision 177 👍

RV Tire Replacement: When to Replace by Age - Complete 7 Year Rule Guide

Pulled into three different tire shops asking about RV tire replacement and got three completely different answers about when tires actually need replacing. The unit has six tires with 2018 DOT date codes, making them 7 years old as of 2025. Mileage is approximately 28,000 miles, and visual inspection shows good tread depth with no apparent cracking, bulging, or other visible deterioration.

A tire technician who performed my state inspection indicated the tires appear serviceable from an external assessment standpoint. However, I understand there may be internal degradation factors not visible during standard inspection procedures.

What is the technical consensus on replacement timing for RV tires when age limits are reached but visible condition remains acceptable? Specifically looking for guidance on the 6-7 year replacement interval and whether internal rubber compound deterioration poses legitimate safety risks regardless of external appearance. …more
Toyo vs Michelin RV Tires: Complete Comparison for Diesel Pusher Motorhomes
Engine Easy N/A - informational 138 👍

Toyo vs Michelin RV Tires: Complete Comparison for Diesel Pusher Motorhomes

Planning to replace the tires on my 2019 Tiffin Phaeton 40IH, and ever since I started getting quotes, everyone keeps suggesting Toyo as a cheaper alternative to Michelin.

I'm honestly a bit overwhelmed by all the tire choices and wondering if I'd be making a mistake switching brands. Will Toyo tires give me the same ride quality as the Michelins? I've heard you can save quite a bit of money, but I don't want to compromise safety or comfort since we're still learning how to handle this big rig.

Would really appreciate some guidance from those who've made this switch - are you happy with the decision or do you regret not sticking with Michelin? …more

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How to Find Discontinued Generac 75D Coolant Hose C4845 for 2003 Newmar Dutch Star RV
Engine Medium 1-2 hours research 136 👍

How to Find Discontinued Generac 75D Coolant Hose C4845 for 2003 Newmar Dutch Star RV

Generac generator in my 2003 Dutch Star needs a specific coolant hose — part number C4845 — and it's been discontinued everywhere I look. Called six RV parts suppliers and checked every online dealer. Need to find a compatible replacement before this thing overheats on our summer trip. …more
Cummins ISL Code 1896: EGR Valve Controller Gaskets & Repair
Engine Medium 3-4 hours 132 👍

Cummins ISL Code 1896: EGR Valve Controller Gaskets & Repair

About to drop $2,800 on my Cummins ISL throwing code 1896 for EGR valve controller out of calibration and wondering if I can tackle this myself. Planning to pull and clean the EGR valve controller to see if that clears it up.

Do I need to order replacement gaskets before I start this job? Want to make sure I have everything on hand before I tear into it. …more
Motorhome vs Toy Hauler Electrical Systems: Complete Comparison Guide
Electrical Easy 10 min read 122 👍

Motorhome vs Toy Hauler Electrical Systems: Complete Comparison Guide

Walked into three dealerships with my $40k budget and they're all pushing different electrical setups — can't afford to buy wrong between motorhome vs toy hauler power systems. Currently I have a 2020 F350 diesel SRW with a Reflection 29rs toy hauler, and I'm comparing a Grand Design Lineage 31ZW Super C motorhome versus a Momentum 381MS toy hauler.

The toy hauler I'm considering comes with serious electrical upgrades - 2 heated 400Ah lithium batteries with internal BMS, dual 3,000kVA inverters, four 300W bifacial solar panels, dual 50A solar controllers, and 60A DC-DC truck charging. Currently, to transport my side-by-side (SxS), I need two trucks and two trailers, which is inefficient.

I'm weighing pros and cons like overall length (truck and toy hauler would be about 60', MH and 20' cargo trailer would be about 57'), maintenance costs of keeping two diesel trucks, and transportation flexibility. I also have an F150 that could potentially serve as a toad vehicle.

What experiences can others share about transitioning between these RV types, especially considering power management and transportation logistics? …more
How to Fix RV Transfer Switch Not Detecting External Generator - Complete Troubleshooting Guide
Engine Hard 4-8 hours 122 👍

How to Fix RV Transfer Switch Not Detecting External Generator - Complete Troubleshooting Guide

The automatic transfer switch on my 1999 American Eagle detects shore power and onboard diesel genset fine, but won't recognize my external portable generator — can I fix this for under $50? The generator runs fine and produces power, but the transfer switch doesn't trigger to use it.

What causes this issue and what are my options to get the ATS to work with an external generator? …more
AquaHot 450D Frequent Cycling: Troubleshooting Guide & Solutions
Propane Medium 1-2 hours for diagnosis 119 👍

AquaHot 450D Frequent Cycling: Troubleshooting Guide & Solutions

Since my 8-year-old AquaHot 450D started firing up every 15 minutes with zero hot water or heating demand, should I repair or replace it? It's more frequent at night when temps drop. No fault codes showing.

Is this normal cycling behavior? I'm thinking something might be causing heat loss or keeping the system active when it should be idle. …more
How to Fix Onan QD3200 Diesel Generator Fuel Leak Behind Air Filter
Engine Medium 1-3 hours 118 👍

How to Fix Onan QD3200 Diesel Generator Fuel Leak Behind Air Filter

According to Murphy's Law, my Onan QD3200 generator is doing something bizarre — it's leaking diesel fuel from behind the air filter instead of where you'd normally expect fuel leaks. The fuel appears to be coming from somewhere behind the air filter box, and I'm worried about making things worse if I don't diagnose this properly. I've shut everything down for now because I'm nervous about safety issues.

I need to know the safest way to trace where this leak is actually coming from without creating a fire hazard or damaging anything. What are the most likely culprits in that area, and what's the proper procedure to identify the exact source? I want to make sure I approach this methodically rather than just poking around and potentially making the problem worse. …more
Toyo M-156 RV Tire Review: Replacing M-154 Steering Tires
Engine Medium 1-2 hours shop time 118 👍

Toyo M-156 RV Tire Review: Replacing M-154 Steering Tires

After 50,000 miles, my Class A motorhome's 245/75R22.5 M-154 steering tires have uneven wear, sidewall cracks, AND are losing air pressure weekly. I've been running the Toyo M-154s for years and have been extremely satisfied with their performance, durability, and overall quality. However, I recently discovered that Toyo has discontinued the M-154 model and replaced it with the M-156.

From what I can see, the M-156 has a completely different tread pattern compared to the M-154, and I'm concerned about how this might affect performance. Specifically, I want to know if the construction quality and load ratings remain the same as the M-154, since those have been rock solid for me. I'm also curious about the road noise characteristics - the M-154s were reasonably quiet, but I'm wondering if the new tread design on the M-156 creates more or less road noise. Additionally, since this is a steering tire replacement, I want to confirm the proper replacement approach and whether there are any specific considerations I should keep in mind when switching from the M-154 to the M-156 design. …more

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DPF Failure Code: Repair Cost & DIY Options for RV Diesel
Engine Medium 4-6 hours research and shop visits 111 👍

DPF Failure Code: Repair Cost & DIY Options for RV Diesel

According to my diagnostic scan the DPF failure code shouldn't be appearing since regeneration happened just 500 miles ago on my 2022 Holiday Rambler Cummins B6.7. Local Freightliner service center is quoting $6,400 for complete DPF replacement at 38,000 miles.

Before proceeding with this expensive repair, I need to verify: Is this quote within normal range for dealer pricing? Should my 2022 engine still have emissions warranty coverage that would apply to DPF failure? Are there alternative repair options like professional cleaning that might resolve the issue without full replacement?

Looking for technical guidance on the most cost-effective approach to address this DPF failure code before committing to the quoted repair. …more
Cummins Onan Generator Service: What to Do When Dealers Won't Service
Engine Easy Informational 111 👍

Cummins Onan Generator Service: What to Do When Dealers Won't Service

Called three Cummins dealers about servicing my 12-year-old Onan generator and they all said it's "too old," but my neighbor's same-age unit gets serviced just fine. My generator is about 12 years old and needs some work done on it.

I'm feeling a bit overwhelmed - are there other options for getting older Onan generators repaired? I'm worried I won't be able to find anyone to work on it or get parts. Any guidance would be really appreciated since I'm not sure where else to turn for service on older equipment like this. …more
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