Results for "slide-out"

Exterior Medium 3-4 days (includes curing time) 297 👍 1

DIY RV Basement Door Paint Repair: Complete Guide & Cost Analysis

Despite protecting my RV all winter, those brutal summer months have absolutely destroyed the paint on my four basement doors and rear wheel area across 2' x 20', leaving me staring at a $5,000-6,500 shop estimate versus DIY with my compressor. I've never done automotive paint work before. Could I really achieve decent results for under $500 like I keep reading online? I'm concerned about proper paint matching, whether I'll damage the surface during prep, and if I choose the wrong spray gun or technique.

Has anyone successfully tackled RV exterior panel paint repair as a DIY project? I need reassurance that this is actually doable without professional training, and guidance on the complete process from start to finish. …more

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General Medium 1-2 days for initial setup 291 👍 1

RV Storage on Gravel: Preventing Weed and Moisture Issues

Nobody warned me that buying a house with RV storage meant inheriting the previous owner's 13-year-old weedy, muddy gravel disaster. While considering this location's storage options, I want to mitigate potential issues with weed growth and moisture retention under the RV.

I'm seeking advice on effective strategies for storing on a gravel surface that shows significant weed penetration and moisture retention. Initial ideas include pre-treatment herbicide application and installing a protective barrier, but I want input from experienced RV owners.

My primary concerns are preventing undercarriage damage and managing moisture/vegetation growth. I plan to spray weed killer beforehand and potentially lay down a weed barrier, pending facility approval. What techniques or materials do you recommend to protect my RV during storage? …more

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Electrical Medium 2 hours 118 👍 0

Thor ACE F53 Chassis Wheel Bearing Service & Propane Detector Replacement Guide

During my pre-trip inspection on my Thor ACE F53 chassis, discovered grinding wheel bearings and a dead propane detector that needs immediate replacement.

First, I desperately need to get my wheel bearings serviced/greased, but I'm having trouble finding someone who will work on them. Camping World told me they only service trailers, not motorhome chassis. I'm worried about driving much further without proper maintenance - where should I be looking for this type of service?

Second issue has me even more concerned: my propane detector started beeping constantly and wouldn't stop, so I had to pull the fuse. Now I discovered that with the fuse pulled, my slides won't operate at all! This seems like a safety feature, but I'm not sure if the detector just needs replacement or if there's a bigger problem. Are these systems really connected, and is it safe to replace the detector myself? …more

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Best RV Generators

4.6 (18,900 reviews)

Electrical Medium 1-2 hours 118 👍 0

RV PEX Plumbing Fittings Guide: Crimp vs SharkBite vs FIP Connections Explained

Got what's probably a dumb question, but why do I have like three different types of PEX fittings in my RV and which ones should I actually be using for repairs? The current setup has what I believe are crimp rings on the PEX lines, but I'm seeing different types of fittings available and I'm confused about which approach is best for a DIY repair.

I've been looking at compression fittings, push-to-connect options like SharkBite, and traditional crimp rings, but I'm not sure which system actually works with RV PEX plumbing. Some of my connections are also threaded at the water pump and manifold areas, and I keep seeing references to FIP connections but I'm not entirely clear on what that means in the context of RV plumbing.

What's the difference between these connection types for RV PEX systems, and which option would be easiest for someone doing their own plumbing repairs? I want to make sure I'm using the right fittings and tools before I start tearing into my water system. …more

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Electrical Hard Professional installation 116 👍 0

48V RV Electrical Systems: Complete Guide to Modern RV Power Upgrades and Efficiency

Tried upgrading my RV's electrical system but I'm standing in the supply store staring at 12V versus 48V components with zero clue what I actually need. The Bluetti RV5 caught my eye as an all-in-one solution that might make the jump easier.

But honestly, I'm still on the fence. What are the real benefits of going 48V? Is it actually that much better than sticking with 12V lithium? And are there any gotchas I should know about, especially with solar integration and getting everything certified for RV use? …more

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General Easy 30 min to 2 hours 116 👍 0

How to Adjust E-450 RV Captain Chair Armrest Height: 3 Proven Solutions for Comfort

Our first E-450 RV came with these captain chair armrests ridiculously high and we're completely lost on how to fix this uncomfortable mess. Are these factory adjustable or can they be lowered somehow? Looking for practical solutions to fix this armrest height issue. …more

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Engine Hard 4-6 hours 114 👍 0

ISL 8.9 Valve & Jake Brake Adjustment: Specs & Tools

The 2004 Cummins ISL 8.9 in my rig is 20 years old and starting to run rough — time for valve adjustments or a full rebuild? What are the intake and exhaust valve specs? I want to confirm the clearance measurements and also need the tool number to adjust the jake brake. Can anyone help me verify the correct specifications before I start this job? …more

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General Easy Research and comparison 113 👍 0

Tiffin Allegro Bus vs Newmar: Complete Owner's Comparison Guide 2024

Finally decided to stop watching YouTube comparisons between Tiffin Allegro Bus and Newmar coaches since every reviewer contradicts each other and I'm more confused than ever. I've been researching for months and keep going in circles. Currently own a 2019 Tiffin Allegro Bus 40ip and absolutely love it, but we're looking to upgrade to a 45-footer and suddenly questioning everything.

Everyone says both Tiffin and Newmar are top-tier quality, but I need to understand the real differences. What makes each brand stand out? Is Tiffin's customer service really that much better, or is it just hype? Are Newmar's interiors actually more luxurious, or is that just marketing?

I've read every forum post and review I can find, but I really need someone to break down the key differences so I can make a decision and move forward. We're not buying new, looking at newer used models, but this choice is keeping me up at night! …more

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Ac Refrigeration Easy 30 minutes 112 👍 0

Best RV Refrigerator Door Latch Replacement Options: Complete Guide 20

According to Murphy's Law, our RV's refrigerator door latch completely gave out just days before our big family reunion trip this weekend! The plastic latch on my residential Whirlpool refrigerator door has given up the ghost, and now I'm living in constant fear of opening the door to find my condiments have taken a scenic tour of the RV floor.

I know this has to be a rite of passage for pretty much every RV owner out there. What are the best aftermarket options to replace these flimsy factory latches? I've seen magnetic catches mentioned, and Camco seems to make everything RV-related, but I'd love to hear what actually works long-term. Bonus points if it doesn't look like I jerry-rigged my fridge with whatever was lying around the campsite! …more

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Slideouts Hard 2-4 hours 111 👍 0

How to Fix Schwintek Slide 6-Flash Error Code: Motor Short Troubleshooting Guide

Schwintek slide is throwing a 6-flash error code and won't move in or out. Happened mid-trip with the slide fully extended and now I can't retract it to drive to the dealer. Manual says 6 flashes means motor short but both motors test fine with a multimeter. …more

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Engine Easy 1 hour to diagnose 108 👍 0

Ford E-450 Class C RV Front Squeak: Complete Diagnosis Guide for Brake

Between leaving my campsite last night and starting up this morning, my Ford E-450 Class C developed this awful front-end squeaking that definitely wasn't there before. My 2004 E-450 Class C with 54k miles has developed a squeak coming from the front end, and I'm not sure how to figure out what's causing it.

The squeak seems to happen at different times - sometimes when I'm braking, other times when going over bumps or rough roads. I've heard it could be anything from brake issues to suspension problems, but I honestly don't know how to tell the difference or what to check first.

Could someone help me understand how to properly diagnose where this front squeak is coming from? I'd really appreciate any step-by-step guidance on what to look for and how to identify whether it's a brake problem versus suspension issue. …more

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Best RV Leveling Blocks & Jacks

4.6 (9,800 reviews)

Ac Refrigeration Easy 30 minutes to check 107 👍 0

12V RV Refrigerator Power and Battery Charging While Towing: Complete

Woke up this morning realizing our new fifth wheel has a 12V refrigerator instead of propane, and we're picking it up next week for our big family camping trip. Over the years with my other RVs, I've always been confident that the house batteries would charge while driving since they're connected to the tow vehicle's charging system through the umbilical cord.

However, I keep reading concerning posts online about 12V refrigerators not staying cold during travel days because they supposedly drain the house batteries faster than the tow vehicle can charge them. This has me puzzled because I've never had charging issues while towing before. If the 12V fridge is running off the same house battery system that gets charged by my truck while driving, shouldn't the charging system be able to keep up with the fridge's power demands?

I'm trying to understand the actual power requirements of these 12V fridges and whether my tow vehicle's charging system through the 7-way connector will realistically be able to maintain the batteries and keep the fridge running properly during long travel days. What kind of amperage draw should I expect from a typical RV 12V refrigerator, and how can I verify that my charging system is working adequately while towing? …more

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General Easy Research time 99 👍 0

Class A vs Class C RV: Complete 2024 Buyer's Guide & Size Comparison for Beginners

Staring down the RV lot this Saturday — should I be zeroing in on Class A or Class C models for my first purchase? I'm located in Georgia and looking for a Class A or Class C motorhome in the 28-33 foot range, with specific needs for my situation.

I keep reading that Class A RVs have more space and amenities, which sounds appealing since I want things like a king bed, a 30x36 shower, and room for recliners. But I also hear that Class C motorhomes are easier to drive and get better gas mileage, which might be important since I'm not super confident behind the wheel of a big rig yet.

I'm debating between diesel or gas engines, and whether to look at pre-covid models from established brands like Newmar and Tiffin, or newer options from Entegra and Coachmen. My budget is flexible, but ideally under $100,000.

I'm planning to tow a mid-sized SUV and take both short weekend trips and longer cross-country adventures, and I'll need space to store my recumbent trike. Would really appreciate some guidance on which type would be the better fit for my situation and skill level. Should I prioritize the extra space or the easier driving experience? …more

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General Hard 6-8 hours 98 👍 0

How to Safely Add Extra Seats to Your RV for Grandchildren - Complete

Opened a $2,000 quote for professional RV seating installation to accommodate grandchildren and wondering if I can safely install Honda Odyssey middle row seats myself instead.

My specific modification involves elevating the right seat 12 inches and the left seat 6 inches, with horizontal offset to prevent interference during movement. My primary concerns are proper mounting procedures and safety compliance.

What's the correct method to securely attach minivan seats to an RV floor structure? I understand my custom elevation may create unique mounting challenges, and I want to ensure proper seatbelt integration at each position.

I need technical guidance on mounting hardware specifications and structural attachment points to ensure this modification meets safety standards. …more

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General Easy N/A 83 👍 0

1996 Newmar Mountain Aire Diesel Pusher: Complete Owner's Guide & Maintenance Tips

Spent way too much time getting quotes and now I'm staring at $2,800 worth of repairs for my 1996 Newmar Mountain Aire on Ford F530 chassis. Recently, the RV was stored outside and squirrels caused wiring damage, which I've had repaired. Now I'm dealing with a problem where the lights stay on when the transmission goes into reverse. I've already checked the relays and fuses, and been told it might be a faulty reverse sensor, but I can't locate it or find a manual. I need help understanding: 1) What could be causing the reverse lights to stay on (I currently have to remove a relay to turn them off), and 2) Where I might find the reverse sensor on this transmission. Any guidance would be greatly appreciated. …more

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