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Ford V10 Turbo Kit for Motorhomes: Cost, Risks & Better Alternatives
Engine Hard Not recommended 1,117 👍

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
RV Chassis Battery Draining & Dead Outlets - Troubleshooting
Electrical Medium 2-4 hours 1,037 👍

RV Chassis Battery Draining & Dead Outlets - Troubleshooting

Finally followed the manual's advice to check the converter first when my outlets died, but my RV chassis battery keeps draining even though the converter tests perfectly. here and I'm at my wit's end with my 2018 Winnebago Vista. The chassis battery keeps going completely dead every few days, even when we're plugged into shore power at the campground. I've already replaced the battery twice thinking it was just old, checked all the obvious stuff like dome lights and radio, and even had the alternator tested - everything checks out fine.

What's really driving me crazy is that this just started happening about a month ago out of nowhere. We've been full-timing for three years without any major electrical issues. I'm wondering if there's some parasitic draw I'm missing or if the battery isolator could be acting up? Has anyone else dealt with this nightmare? I'm getting tired of jump-starting this thing every other day and my wife is about ready to sell the rig and get a travel trailer instead! …more
Atwood GC10A-4E Replacement: Best Tankless RV Heaters
Propane Hard 6-8 hours 400 👍

Atwood GC10A-4E Replacement: Best Tankless RV Heaters

Halfway through draining my Atwood GC10A-4E's supposed 10-gallon capacity, the water's already running cold but my gauge shows I've only pulled maybe 6 gallons. Are there any dual-fuel tankless units that would work as a replacement? I know there's no plug-and-play option, but what are the best tankless water heaters that offer both gas and electric operation for RVs? …more
Best Cummins 6.7 Scan Tools for RV Diesel & DPF Regen
General Medium 30 min research 294 👍

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
RV Battery Disconnect Switch Guide: When to Use, What Loses Power & Staying Safe
Electrical Easy 10 min read 285 👍

RV Battery Disconnect Switch Guide: When to Use, What Loses Power & Staying Safe

Wondering if I can skip the $400 shop diagnosis for my electrical issues and just figure out this battery disconnect switch myself, even though I'm getting conflicting advice.

Specifically, I'm concerned about what happens to things like my LP gas detector, carbon monoxide alarm, and refrigerator when I disconnect the battery. Will I lose all my radio presets and clock settings? Are there certain situations where I absolutely shouldn't use the disconnect switch?

I want to use it for storage to prevent battery drain, but I'm also wondering about daily use scenarios. What are the best practices to avoid any problems or safety issues? I really don't want to mess anything up or put my family at risk. …more
Atwood AFMD35 Furnace Playing Peek-a-Boo - How to Clean Flame Sensor & Fix Short Cycling
Propane Medium 30-60 minutes 268 👍 1

Atwood AFMD35 Furnace Playing Peek-a-Boo - How to Clean Flame Sensor & Fix Short Cycling

Staring at my Atwood AFMD35 manual that claims it should stay running once lit, but mine keeps shutting off every few minutes like it's playing peek-a-boo. It fires up beautifully for about 5-10 seconds, gets my hopes up that I won't freeze tonight, then promptly shuts off like it's having second thoughts about this whole "heating the RV" thing.

I've ruled out the sail switch and high temp limit since it actually lights (small victories in RV life, right?). I'm pretty sure the flame sensor is the culprit here, but I've never cleaned one before. How do I clean this mysterious little part, and what's the best way to access it on this model? Because apparently my furnace thinks playing hard-to-get is charming! …more

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Remote RV Diesel Fueling: Complete Guide for Campground Fuel Strategies
Engine Easy 15 min read 237 👍

Remote RV Diesel Fueling: Complete Guide for Campground Fuel Strategies

Last night at 11 PM I'm staring at my diesel RV's fuel gauge showing nearly empty — need to figure out remote campground fuel strategies before we head out this morning. With a 5 gallon Harbor Freight stick transfer pump, I've been able to add fuel when truck stops aren't convenient, but I'm concerned about static electricity risks.

My current setup involves using the pump to transfer diesel with the fuel can on a camping table, since my RV's fuel inlet is located under a slide. I pumped 10 gallons successfully, but I'm wondering about the safety of this method.

I know there are static electricity concerns when transferring fuel, and I'm curious about the specific risks with diesel. How safe is it to transfer fuel when the can isn't directly grounded to concrete? Are there best practices I should follow when manually adding diesel in remote locations? …more
Torque Pro App Review: Complete RV Engine Monitoring with OBD2 Diagnostic Tool
Electrical Easy 30 minutes setup 224 👍

Torque Pro App Review: Complete RV Engine Monitoring with OBD2 Diagnostic Tool

The previous owner of this used RV left me completely in the dark about monitoring what's actually happening with the engine! I recently bought an OBD Link adapter and an Amazon Fire tablet specifically to use the Torque Pro app for engine monitoring. I'm pretty much a caveman when it comes to technology, and I'm currently stuck trying to figure out how to set up the dashboard.

I keep hearing horror stories about transmission temps and engine issues that could have been caught early with proper monitoring. Problem is, I have no clue how to actually configure the app to show me useful data. Anyone have tips for getting the Torque Pro dashboard set up for someone who's totally tech-challenged? Bonus points if you can help me understand how to get meaningful information without wanting to throw my device out the window! …more
How to Convert RV from Lead Acid to Lithium Batteries - Step-by-Step Guide
Solar Batteries Medium 2-4 hours 216 👍

How to Convert RV from Lead Acid to Lithium Batteries - Step-by-Step Guide

Despite having perfectly fine lead acid batteries yesterday, it's 11 PM and my RV's two 6v deep cycle batteries just died completely — need to swap them for LiFePO4 lithium before we head out tomorrow morning. Since they're similarly priced, I'm looking to upgrade, but need guidance on system modifications.

Specifically need info on: converter voltage requirements, solar controller settings, inverter cutoff adjustments, and whether I need additional battery management components.

What are the key steps to convert successfully? …more
HWH 625S Slide Out Not Working: Step-by-Step Control Box Bypass & Repair Guide
Slideouts Medium 2-3 hours 214 👍

HWH 625S Slide Out Not Working: Step-by-Step Control Box Bypass & Repair Guide

Wondering why my 2008 Winnebago Adventurer 38J's HWH 625S slide out won't budge after replacing the solenoid, cleaning connections, and checking fluid levels? 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? …more
Ford F53 Chassis Firewall Wiring: Finding Brake LED Through-Holes
Engine Medium 2-3 hours 204 👍

Ford F53 Chassis Firewall Wiring: Finding Brake LED Through-Holes

Opened up my 2022 Holiday Rambler 36DB for spring prep and once again I'm staring at my 2021 Ford F53 chassis firewall wondering where those brake LED through-holes are hiding. I need to run the brake indicator LED wire from my toad to the dashboard inside the motorhome, but I'm having trouble locating the best firewall penetration point.

Rather than drilling a new hole through the firewall (which I'd prefer to avoid for obvious reasons), I'm hoping to find an existing through-hole or grommet that I can utilize. I've heard that Ford F53 chassis typically have several factory access points, but I'm not sure exactly where to look or which ones would be most suitable for this type of low-voltage wiring installation.

Can anyone provide specific guidance on where to find existing firewall through-holes on the F53 chassis that would work well for routing brake indicator wiring? I want to make sure I'm using an appropriate location that won't interfere with existing systems and will provide a clean, professional installation. …more
How to Fix Dutch Star Front Air Bags That Won't Inflate - Height Valve Troubleshooting
General Medium 1-2 hours 197 👍

How to Fix Dutch Star Front Air Bags That Won't Inflate - Height Valve Troubleshooting

I replaced my 2006 Dutch Star height valve but the front air bags still won't inflate, the valve seems stuck, AND the whole front end is sitting way too low. The air pressure gauges look totally normal, but when I try to air up the front bags, they just won't fill up. Instead I'm hearing this whining noise and air is literally coming out of the height control valve exhaust port.

It's like the system thinks something's wrong but I can't figure out what. The bags themselves seem fine, and there's definitely air pressure in the system. What would cause the height valve to dump air instead of letting the bags inflate? This is driving me nuts! …more
Onan 4000 Generator Won't Start Without Choke: Code 14 Troubleshooting Guide
Engine Medium 2-4 hours 195 👍

Onan 4000 Generator Won't Start Without Choke: Code 14 Troubleshooting Guide

Halfway through another camping trip and trying to decide between babying my Onan 4000 with manual choke every startup or finally fixing this Code 14 nightmare. Let me try again:

Just found out that my 2013 Thor Class C's Onan 4000 generator won't cooperate after sitting since March, and I'm dealing with a nightmare. Been getting Code 14 errors and spent half the morning just trying to get it fired up.

The only way I can get it started is by manually messing with what I think is the choke linkage - otherwise it just won't go. Once I shut it off, same story - won't restart unless I physically manipulate that linkage again. Only has 240 hours on it and was serviced about 2 years ago.

I'm pretty sure the carburetor is gummed up from sitting, but what exactly does Code 14 mean? And more importantly, what do I need to clean to get that choke working automatically again? I really need to get this thing running properly before our next trip! …more

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Ford F53 V10 Thermostat: 180°F vs 195°F Guide
Engine Medium 2-3 hours 193 👍

Ford F53 V10 Thermostat: 180°F vs 195°F Guide

Replacing the thermostat on my F53 V10 and can't decide between the factory 195°F and dropping to a 180°F stat. Some Ford forums swear by the cooler thermostat for RV duty but others say it'll throw codes and hurt fuel economy. Which temperature is actually right for a motorhome? …more
RV Air Horn Compressor Keeps Blowing Fuses: Complete Troubleshooting Guide
Electrical Medium 1-2 hours 190 👍

RV Air Horn Compressor Keeps Blowing Fuses: Complete Troubleshooting Guide

Got three YouTube tutorials under my belt trying to fix my gas motorhome's air horn compressor fuse problem since May, but now it's blowing fuses even faster. System functioned properly through summer operation. Recently discovered air horns non-functional with blown 25-amp inline fuse. Replaced fuse and attempted system energization - fuse blows immediately upon key activation.

Conducted continuity testing between compressor motor leads (red/black wires) using digital multimeter. Results show full continuity, indicating potential short circuit condition. Testing reveals continuity between power lead and air tank connection points as well. The two connectors at the top of the air tank also show continuity.

Based on immediate fuse failure and continuity readings across motor windings, suspect either seized compressor motor or internal wiring short. What diagnostic steps should I follow to isolate whether this is a motor failure requiring compressor replacement versus other system components? I've already sent an inquiry to the manufacturer a week ago with no response. …more
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