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BY FRED SMITH JULY 2010
Technically Speaking Steve
The Man Behind the Answers
Steve Roddy is an RVIA/RVDA master certified technician with more than 37 years of RV experience. Some call him a living legend in the RV industry. He just liked to be called Steve. We take a look at what makes him mind tick, and he is
the guy
you should ask your tough questions.
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Comments
Steve Roddy
May. 22, 2012 - 07:15 PM
Should be a switch inside the entry area that needs to be turned off as well as the ignition needs to be off also.
Mike (GB)
May. 22, 2012 - 02:36 AM
Hi Steve i have a 2007 Monaco knight, the entrance will not stay out in the lock position when i shut the door it keeps retracting any ideas. Mike
Steve Roddy
Jan. 28, 2012 - 02:10 PM
Sounds like a wiring issue. Check all connectors to the dash to be sure they are clean and tight. Make sure any ground wires to the dash are also clean and tight.
clyde (kentucky)
Jan. 27, 2012 - 10:04 AM
any ideas lost in kentucky.
clyde (kentucky)
Jan. 27, 2012 - 10:03 AM
any ideas lost in kentucky.
clyde (kentucky)
Jan. 27, 2012 - 10:02 AM
have a 1998 holiday rambler 38ft imperial the tach, alt. meter jumps and all light pulsates. replaced chassis batteries twice in two years. second time replace altenator and batteries. altenator was tested bad batteries not recover.
renegade
Nov. 05, 2011 - 07:13 PM
Steve, I need help!!!!! Recently left Tucson am now in Phoenix. engine coolant leaked out. Eduardo put new resevoir on, now no coolant. Can you help? my number is 210-862-8880. Please call limited computer. Richard
Steve Roddy
Oct. 23, 2011 - 02:00 PM
It is held together with contact glue. Apply glue to both surfaces, wait until the glue is tacky, then press together. If it is being glued to styrofoam be careful not to use to much glue as it will damage the foam.
larry (Ochlocknee,Ga.)
Oct. 21, 2011 - 05:12 PM
Help,Ihave Dads Winnabago roofs spit ceilling fell out underthe back A/C& it sags.Got roof ,But the ceilling what do i uses to put the wood&styrofoa back up with? Can sum body help me?
larry (Ochlocknee,Ga.)
Oct. 21, 2011 - 05:12 PM
Help,Ihave Dads Winnabago roofs spit ceilling fell out underthe back A/C& it sags.Got roof ,But the ceilling what do i uses to put the wood&styrofoa back up with? Can sum body help me?
Steve Roddy
Sep. 18, 2011 - 03:57 PM
It is either the converter or an automatic breaker tripping. Using a volt meter check the DC output voltage of the converter. If the voltage is pulsating the converter will need to be replaced. If the voltage does not pulsate then locate the breaker that is tripping.
dowjim1
Sep. 16, 2011 - 10:23 PM
I think I am having a problem with my power converter on my 2007 Winnebago Voyage.. My 12v lights dim and then go brihgt every 5 or 6 minutes tonight. They have also sulsated for 2-3 minutes. My batteies are full. We are on a 50 amp service in a state park. Is it the converter. what are the indications?? How can I check the converter
Steve Roddy
Aug. 24, 2011 - 01:00 PM
Some manufacturer's do start the generator from the chassis battery. I personally prefer starting the generator from the house batteries. When you start the generator it will momentarily put the system in a discharge condition. Be sure to check all battery connections, including ground cable, to the generator. Make sure they are clean and tight. Check water level and condition of batteries also. The light comes on because it recognizes that the fault did occur.
Jack M Bowsman
Aug. 22, 2011 - 10:09 PM
I have a 1995 Holiday Rambler Imperial with a Spartan chasis. While the engine motor is running, I start the generator as I am driving down the road. The battery indicator on the dash turns red and I show a discharge. I stop the RV and turn off the ignition. The battery light goes off and the generator is still running. I no longer show a discharge so I turn off the generator and start the ignition to go on my way. Every time I start the generator while the coach is running, I have this problem. What causes the battery light to turn red and show a discharge?
Steve Roddy
Jun. 19, 2011 - 11:08 AM
What chassis is the Brave? It is important that the correct coolant is added. Most coolant is extended life and GM uses a special coolant for the aluminum engine. Refer to the owner's manual or respond with the chassis and engine information and I will look it up for you.
Kris (NC)
Jun. 17, 2011 - 09:11 PM
I have a 1993 Winnebago Brave - new to us - The coolant is low & I don t know what kind to put in - Am afraid to drive it for service this low - Taking it to have it checked for a leak next week, but don t want to run it dry. Thoughts? Thank you
Steve Roddy
Jun. 15, 2011 - 07:29 PM
Window blinds are held in place with brackets behind the valance or screwed directly to the bottom of the cabinet.
Gill ()
Jun. 14, 2011 - 06:23 PM
I have a 99 Winnebago Brave. The blinds really need cleaning. How can I get them down to clean?
Steve Roddy
Jun. 13, 2011 - 07:50 PM
I would guess the park brake is not releasing. For starters what chassis is the RV?
Joan (Illinois)
Jun. 12, 2011 - 05:21 PM
Motor home - when we have the gear in drive and it won t move a inch.
Steve Roddy
Apr. 11, 2011 - 08:23 AM
Make sure the vent hose that was added is higher than the fill hose and does not have a low spot to hold fuel. Also make sure it is not pinched or obstructed in any way from the fill neck to the top of the tank. Also when filling do not overfill the tank, this will flood the vent system. Stop filling when the nozzle shuts of indicating a full tank. We use to fill until we saw fuel in the fill neck. Do not do this as it will flood the vent system causing it to malfunction.
Steve Roddy
Apr. 11, 2011 - 08:17 AM
Try dielectric grease on the contacts and make sure the contacts are not bent or damaged.
Bob (Homosassa fl)
Apr. 10, 2011 - 04:00 PM
Steve, 2006 Tropical LX.. must fuel very slow. added a vent hose last year at frieghtlinner....still very slow trying to fuel...Spoke to you at the NUTS rally. explain again what needs to be done......Thanks Bob
Roland (Phx Az)
Apr. 03, 2011 - 04:51 AM
I am having trouble pluging my 50 amp plug into the generator or to a 30 amp adopter,to tight. I have to use a pry bar on it. Is there a lubercent for this or what do you suggest?
Steve Roddy
Mar. 14, 2011 - 10:12 PM
Did you connect to shore power at the same place? Make sure everything is turned off before connecting or disconnecting to shore power or starting and stopping the generator. The transfer switch can fail if switched under a load. Make sure all connections are tight and always check voltage and polarity before connecting to shore power.
Arlin (Lake Placud Fl)
Mar. 14, 2011 - 12:35 PM
We have a 2005 HR Endeavor purchased at LD . Problem with transfer switch, will not pass shore power into MH,( power ok to switch ) will pass gen power. Replaced transfer switch, worked for 1 outing with coach, but now same problem ? no shore power
Steve Roddy
Mar. 04, 2011 - 03:38 PM
Noticed you are in Jacksonville. If you send your e-mail address to sroddy@lazydays.com I can send you a copy.
Steve Roddy
Mar. 03, 2011 - 09:29 AM
I have a copy of the Surf Side Owner's Manual. Do you live local to Lazydays?
Thomas (Jacksonville, Florida)
Mar. 02, 2011 - 11:20 PM
We own a 30ft. National Surf Side SS29A. Two years, ago when we bought it from Lazy Days with 4700 miles on it and no operating manuals, we are still guessing how to use some of the coaches equipment and features. Heard you were from National-HELP.
Steve Roddy
Mar. 02, 2011 - 08:18 AM
Check the magnetic switch mounted on the door. You can use a magnet instead of opening and closing the door. Put the magnet on the switch mounted on the door frame and the step should retract, take the magnet away and the step should extend. If it is replaced make sure it is replaced with the same color of switch. There are two different types, normally closed and normally open, which is designated by color.
Martha (Arizona)
Mar. 01, 2011 - 07:20 PM
I have a 1985 Winnebago RV and we have a problem with the step going in and out . I sometimes will not go in when we close up to drive or it won t come out when it should. Can you advise?
Chris (Texas)
Feb. 25, 2011 - 04:28 PM
I purchased a 40 DP recently and am trying to make a decision about towing. I definitely do not want a car caddy and looked into towing 4 wheels on the ground. When pricing tow bars and braking systems it seems to run in the neighborhood of $2000 -$2500. It seems that most people I meet tow that way but I have been told if you ever have to back up over a couple of feet you would do damage. That concerns me since I have already found sometimes I get in a tight with a long rig. So I have been thinking of purchasing a open car hauler which I know you could back up. Also I believe you could get one for close to the same money and I could also use it in my business. So it seems that the cost would be close but the only negative I can see is parking the trailer at campgrounds. I stayed at a large campground recently and they had a place you could leave your trailer while you are at their park. I would love to hear feed back from anyone with any experience with this or any insights. Will this create a big hassle as I move around the country?
Steve Roddy
Feb. 20, 2011 - 06:44 PM
No tricks to unlock door. If you have the correct key, simply turning the tumbler should unlock the lock. Will the key lock and unlock the lock with the door open.
Steve Roddy
Feb. 20, 2011 - 06:41 PM
1516 code is a tach sensor code.
D (elkhart, in)
Feb. 20, 2011 - 04:43 PM
I have the keys to my new rv, however I cannot unlock the door with the keys. Is there some sort of trick to opening the door?
Wayne (Lavaca Ar)
Feb. 19, 2011 - 10:17 PM
Hi, This is wayne I. I had forgot to tell you that my 04 Winnebago has a 8100 GM vortec eng an the DTC code came up P-1516. What is this this? Send me a E-mail .thank you
Wayne (Lavaca Ar)
Feb. 17, 2011 - 06:22 PM
I have a 04 Winnebago Sightseer It has a WorkhoresChase, The check Eng light can on. Had it checked out an the dtc said p-1516. What does this mean? Send e-mail to me thank you Wayne I
Steve Roddy
Feb. 16, 2011 - 07:52 AM
The design center at Lazydays can install a booth in place of your sofa. Call and ask for Troy.
Bob (Vero Beach, Fl)
Feb. 15, 2011 - 09:09 PM
Appreciate Steve s expertice. How we can change the sofa across from the kitchen in our 18 ft pull behind Eco camper to a dinette? We had the option of a sofa or dinette when the camper was made and chose the sofa. Wrong choice. Can it be changed?
Steve Roddy
Feb. 09, 2011 - 07:43 AM
What happens when you use your battery boost ( auxiliary start, emergency start)? If it cranks properly when using battery boost have the chassis battery tested. If it does not crank check battery connections including both positive and negative connections.
rshaw500
Feb. 08, 2011 - 03:50 PM
i have a 1995 Fleetwood Pace-Arrow with a 460ci engine on a Ford chassis. I stopped at a walmart to shop and when i came out the motorhome turned over very slowly and then just started clicking. I replaced the starter but I still have the same problem. It sounds like a tinny click like metal but will not turn over.
Steve Roddy
Feb. 06, 2011 - 08:02 PM
When troubleshooting a compartment leak I use something called a smokie. They are a flameless smoke bomb. Put one of these in a storage compartment and you will have no problem finding the area causing the leak.
Jim (Parsonsburg,Md)
Feb. 05, 2011 - 10:56 AM
Steve, I have a 2008 Discovery. The problem is the compartment with my inverter is in leaks when driving in thr rain. I have had the door adjusted so the gasket hits a little better. Still leaks but not as bad. Any thoughts
Steve Roddy
Jan. 21, 2011 - 09:51 AM
Have a Workhorse service center check the history with a diagnostic tool. Also make sure the electric coolant fans are working. If they do not start when the temperature increase they will be an obstruction in the air flow causing high temperatures. If the engine is not actually overheating, test the sending unit and gauge.
Steve Roddy
Jan. 21, 2011 - 09:48 AM
Batteries should be replaced when they test bad. If they test low charge they should be cleaned and charged. Then the alternator and converter or inverter should be checked for proper charging. In many cases batteries are replaced because they are not receiving a proper charge current. New batteries will hide this problem for a month or two and then the same battery issues will be back.
chuck (fredericksburg, tx)
Jan. 20, 2011 - 04:56 PM
workhorse, 8.1 liter. this is only an occasional problem but evertime it happens I have to stop and make sure it is not really overheating. Usually after stopping for gas or a snack. on restarting it will do it check tank all o.k. stays showing hot.
Thomas (New Hampshire)
Jan. 20, 2011 - 03:19 PM
Batteries I have a 2004 Holiday Rambler I replaced 4 coach batteries this time last year and the tech. tested my old ones and said they look perfect. Now my two engine batteries seem to operate excellent. These are original, should I replace now?
Steve Roddy
Jan. 20, 2011 - 03:05 PM
Also a pegged out reading could indicate a short to ground from the sending unit.
Steve Roddy
Jan. 20, 2011 - 03:03 PM
I assume you are talking about coolant temperature gauge? What kind of engine/chassis? Where the temperature sending unit is mounted also influences the gauge reading. Have a dealer read the diagnostics on engine to determine highest temperature recorded by engine. Diesel engines will de-rate or reduce power if the engine is reading high temperature. The sending unit can be tested with an ohm meter as temperature increases. You will need to know the specifications of sending unit, 90ohm,60ohm etc...?
Chuck (Frederiksberg, tx)
Jan. 20, 2011 - 01:18 PM
Guage will sometimes peg out at top so I stop and check tank. Fells warm, not blowing water so I keep driving. Asked a dealer that was replacing brake cals. to check out. Said they ran it for 4hours and no overheat, surprise. sensor or guage?
Steve Roddy
Jan. 18, 2011 - 01:44 PM
City water connections have screens that ocassionally need cleaning. Is the water regulator working properly? Is low pressure at all faucets?
Steve Roddy
Jan. 18, 2011 - 01:42 PM
If you have access you can bolt through the wall. Best if the top bolts are in a closet or cabinet and bottom bolts are in a storage compartment.
joe (south louisiana)
Jan. 18, 2011 - 12:31 PM
2006 Keystone Everest 37 , awning has stripped out mounting lag screws 1/4 tried 5/16 hole too big need bigger mounting plate with awning mounting holes. does anyone offer kit to get this done right or should i design my own? mfg should do building
Richard (Manitou Springs, Co)
Jan. 17, 2011 - 11:31 AM
I have 1995 Alegro Bay and am having problems with the City water. We have very littlle water pressure. with the pump off. When we turn thepump on every things fine.
Bill Whetstone
Jan. 02, 2011 - 08:19 PM
To help with condensation, you need to work on eliminating some of the moisture, running your ceiling fan while cooking helps. We hasve been in minsu degree temps recently, condensation a prioblem before figuring out the fan. Big help!
Steve Roddy
Jan. 02, 2011 - 12:19 PM
This is condensation. Condensation forms when warm air and cold air meet. Because of the amount of humidity and heating with propane the RV will have a very moist and warm atmosphere which will create a lot of moisture when meeting cooler temperatures such as windows and walls. A dehumidifier is the only way I know to reduce moisture in a RV.
shorty (oly,wa)
Jan. 01, 2011 - 01:02 PM
i live in a 25ft trailer,the windows build up alot of water,how do i stop this? and the cabinets get my clothes wet.help.
Steve Roddy
Dec. 14, 2010 - 09:10 AM
You said you have an analog TV. To receive a signal you will need a digital to analog converter box between your antenna and TV or replace the TV with a digial TV.
Roy (Albuquerque)
Dec. 14, 2010 - 12:13 AM
I can t get my digital-ready dvd player to connect to my old analog tv. I can play dvds and vhs. The tv just won t accept the input from the antenna through the switch box in the rv. What am I doing wrong
Steve Roddy
Nov. 22, 2010 - 01:53 PM
There is no advantage to plug your 30amp cord to a 50amp recepticle. The adapter is going to adapt it back to 30 amp service. 50 amp service is two 110volt lines in parallel. 30amp is a single 110volt line. The adapter will eliminate one of the 110volt lines from the 50 amp service.
LEN (SUN CITY CTR FL)
Nov. 21, 2010 - 07:43 PM
MY RV HAS A 30 AMP PLUG. WHEN WE HAVE A CHOICE OF 30 OR 50 IS THERE AN ADVANTAGE TO PLUG INTO A 50 AMP W/AN ADAPTER?
Steve Roddy
Nov. 02, 2010 - 08:57 AM
Contact Forest River @ Owners manuals, RV parts, RV decals etc. (574) 534-3167
Lisa (Georgia)
Oct. 30, 2010 - 10:41 PM
I bought a 2006 Rockwood 2701SS but the dealership did not supply an owners manual. I ve searched the internet...how can I find one. I need to know how to winterize before it gets any colder
Steve Roddy
Oct. 23, 2010 - 09:19 PM
I am not aware of a video. Check your owner's manual. Most manuals will advise to extend jacks first. My opinion is if the coach is parked on a level surface or minor pressure is applied to jacks to level it does not matter if rooms are extended before or after jacks are extended. However if the coach is in an unlevel situation this will cause frame deflection when leveling with your jacks. This will also cause the slide room opening to be out of square. When you attempt to open the slide it may not have enough clearance to open. Damage can occur to the room in this situation. It would be best to open and close the slides when the coach is in its natural position (not supported on jacks).
Cynthia ()
Oct. 23, 2010 - 06:39 PM
My husband and I just bought our 1st diesel (Monaco Knight). We would like to know if there is a video/DVD that explain the difference in letting the slides our 1st vs leveling it 1st? Cynthia
Steve Roddy
Oct. 22, 2010 - 08:52 PM
Since the light is not working the step prabably does not have 12 volt power to the step. Check for a fuse or 12 volt circuit breaker. There are four wires to the step 1. 12 volt power 2. ignition power 3. step switch power 4. magnetic step switch No light would indicate no 12 volt power from battery.
paul (georgia)
Oct. 22, 2010 - 12:38 PM
no light on under the step, checked the switch to be sure it was on, cycled it off and on, still no light. Step can not be moved manually as motor and controls are under the step when retracted.
Steve Roddy
Oct. 20, 2010 - 11:02 AM
The first thing to check is 12 volt power at the step. One way to do this is check to see if the light is on under the step when the door is open. Will the step frame operate when disconnected from motor? Can you manually operate the step frame to the open and closed position by hand? If this all checks good then the step switch, motor and control board will need to be tested.
Paul (Georgia)
Oct. 19, 2010 - 06:03 PM
I HAVE A COACHMEN FREELANDER 3150SS AND THE ELECTRIC STEP STOPPED WORKING. CHECKED THE BOOK, DID THE TROUBLESHOOTING STEPS, NO BLOWN FUSE, CONTACTS MEET AS PRESCRIBED, BUT IT STILL WON T OPEN. WHAT NEXT? GO TO REPAIR SHOP? DO CONTACTS GO BAD?
Steve Roddy
Oct. 14, 2010 - 07:55 AM
One end is under the dash usually in the center. The other end is either at the top of the rear cap or coiled at the bottom of the rear cap. However the cable is specific to a certain brand of camera and monitor. You will need to find that brand to be able to use existing wire. There are wireless systems out now that make installation very easy also.
RON (INDEPENDENCE, MO.)
Oct. 14, 2010 - 07:13 AM
Hello, I HAVE A 1995 ITASCA 32RQ RV, THE MANUAL INDICATES THE WIRING/CABLE ARE INSTALL FOR A BACKUP CAMERA, HOW DO I LOCATE THESE ITEMS...THANK YOU RON
Steve Roddy
Oct. 13, 2010 - 02:56 PM
There is not a certain year that manufacturers went from steel to aluminum. Some manufacturers are still using steel. Over the years we have seen a progression from wood to steel then to aluminum but not by any certain model year. Some manufacturers like the strength of steel as others depend on the reduced weight that aluminum provides. This will take research on a particular brand to see what construction methods were used at that time. As for fuel injection we again saw a progression from carburated to throttle body to fuel injection. It would be hard to say by model year because the model year of the chassis does not always match the model year of the motorhome. It would not be unusual to have a 2004 motorhome with a 2003 chassis. Most fuel delivery changes occured around 1990. If you have a particular brand and year that I can research for you I would be happy to do that. Just provide me the information.
Brent (Derby, Kansas)
Oct. 12, 2010 - 08:46 PM
Not sure if I m submitting this in the correct area. I m trying to figure out what year and what makes of class C Motor Homes have aluminum frames. Also, what year did they start fuel injecting the engines? Greatly appreciated. Brent
Steve Roddy
Oct. 12, 2010 - 01:46 PM
The bleach solutiom will not effect the anti-freeze capabilities from not expanding when freezing. In the future I would sanitize my water system in the spring before putting it back in service. Make sure you are using the correct quantity of bleach also. 1/4 cup of bleach mixed with 1 gallon of water 1 gallon for every 15 gallons of water capacity Pour in fresh water tank and finish filling with water Run through each hot and cold faucet until bleach is indicated by odor Let stand for four hours Drain and Rinse with clean water
Michelle (Fort Plain, NY)
Oct. 11, 2010 - 08:03 PM
Sanitized freshwater tank and lines with bleach before winterizing RV. Flushed tank and lines, added pink rv antifreeze, antifreeze turned yellow, was hard to tell if it went into the lines properly. Will the bleach keep the antifreeze from working?
Steve Roddy
Oct. 08, 2010 - 08:59 AM
Is the water pressure low on both pump and city water? If so then there is probably an obstruction in the water line to the toilet. Could be a kinked line to the toilet or something in the water line (piece of plastic etc...) causing low pressure. Check aireator screen in the kitchen faucet. Since it is a 2011 I would think you have plastic shavings from production process.
Steve Roddy
Oct. 08, 2010 - 08:54 AM
Engine shut down can be very dangerous in heavy traffic situations. I would take it to a workhorse dealer to have a diagnostic check. It sounds like an electrical connection is loose or corroded. You did not mention anything about weather conditions when his happens, such as driving in the rain?
John (Crystal River, FL)
Oct. 08, 2010 - 07:26 AM
2011 HR Neptune. Insufficent water pressure/volune for flushing toilet. Tried, removing pressure regulator and water filter and still NG. Any suggestions?? All other water outlets seem OK except kitchen volume seems low as well.
Kenneth (Riverview, FL)
Oct. 08, 2010 - 12:07 AM
I have a 2004Tara Fleetwood 8liter VortecWorkhorse chassie. I drive 3hrs then start losing power and engine shuts down-All elec in dash is gone-unhook battery connection and rehook and it will run again-battery is full charge and alternator charging
Steve Roddy
Sep. 27, 2010 - 02:41 PM
I have not experienced any refrigerator problems due to magnets on the door. The door gaskets are magnetic and stick to the refrigerator frame when the door is closed. Norcold has used a magnetic switch to turn inside light on/off. This is the only possibility I can imagine.
Charles (Loveland Colorado)
Sep. 27, 2010 - 02:26 PM
I have a question. Do magnets on the refrigerator door degrade or affect the operation or efficiency?
Steve Roddy
Sep. 26, 2010 - 08:30 AM
I am not aware of an RV specific GPS at this time. Make sure the system you buy can be updated easily. A truck route GPS should be used to get the correct route for vehicle size restrictions.
john (Redding,CA)
Sep. 25, 2010 - 02:12 PM
How do you fold up the end unite s on a roo 21ss by forest river
joan (ashford washington)
Sep. 24, 2010 - 05:58 PM
i bought a 19 coachhouse conversion van 192SD year 1998 i need the manual to learn how to run everything. i have searched the internet, can you help me get a copy? does anyone own one of these that will copy their manual for me.
Ken (Tampa, Florida)
Sep. 24, 2010 - 09:53 AM
We just purchased our first Motor Home and are looking for a GPS unit which has RV consideration. I was looking at the Rand McNally Intelliroute TND 700, which is an excellent Truckers unit. Would you recommend this unit for an RV or suggest anothe
Steve Roddy
Sep. 22, 2010 - 12:54 PM
If everything is working on the front tv then the problem will be in splitters or a video selector box. There is one antenna booster that receives an amplified signal from the antenna. That signal is sent to either a splitter or a video selector. The video selector is a box with several switches to choose what signal, antenna, cable, sat or dvd is sent to each tv. The most common problems with tv reception are loose cable connections. Splitters or video selector is usually mounted in the front overhead cabinet where the antenna, cable, sat and dvd wiring is found.
BOB (Oregon)
Sep. 21, 2010 - 05:22 PM
2008 Monaco Camelot. The signal for bedroom tv has stopped working for cable/local antenna still have roof Sat signal Front tv is OK. Does it have splitters and signal boosters that could have quit working. Where are they located in the coach?
Steve Roddy
Sep. 15, 2010 - 01:57 PM
I do not see a listing published by Coachmen for weight limits on the roof. It is normal for a roof to support the weight of a person on the roof. Usually the weight limit is on the ladder used to access the roof. Normally around 200lbs. Another concern should be vibraton of whatever is being put on the roof. If not properly mounted it will rub a hole in whatever roof surface was used whether it is rubber, aluminum or fiberglass. What is it you want to carry on the roof?
Steve Roddy
Sep. 15, 2010 - 01:50 PM
http://www.trailerlife.com/output.cfm?id=42175 There are several tow capacity charts available. This is one example of such charts. This will tell the weight limits for pulling and stopping a certain model of tow vehicle. It is very important not to exceed manufacturers tow capacities.
Gerry (Vermont)
Sep. 15, 2010 - 09:47 AM
I m sorry but I am looking for advice from someone that knows. Can I load on the roof of my 2010 Catalina RV? Please, someone answer. Thanks
steve (texas /canada)
Sep. 14, 2010 - 05:25 PM
we have a coach and atre trading down to a fifth wheel we would like to know how big a fifth wheel we can pull /dodge 1500 chev fiord 150 would like to hav e a 35 ft if possible ty vm steve
Steve Roddy
Sep. 14, 2010 - 01:46 PM
There are two different types of brake controls, a timer and a pendulum or inertia. The pundulum is the brake control to use. It gives you a more accurate response to your braking needs. A timer control increases trailer braking the longer you have your foot on the brake. This is not always the case, as in stop and go traffic. The pendulum type controller increases trailer braking as you increase the tow vehicle braking. After purchasing and installing the correct brake control, proper set-up must be performed. The best way to tell if you have your system adjusted is if you can not feel the brakes working. No push from weak brakes and no pull or jerking from brakes hitting to hard.
Bill Whetstone
Sep. 14, 2010 - 09:49 AM
The Prodigy is a great brake controller, available at Camping World, easy installation. It has adjustable gain, this is important because there is a different amount of power to be sent based on the combination of towing vehicle and trailer by weight. You don't want to lock the brakes, nor do you want to apply too little making them ineffectual. There are other brands, and others also have the adjustable gain. Usually retail between 100 and 150.
Charlie (South Beloit, Illinois)
Sep. 13, 2010 - 09:04 PM
I have a 2011 R-Pod Model 177, I am going to tow it with a 2011 Subaru Tribeca with factory trailor towing package and Tran Cooler. What is the best brake control I can put on it. The car dealer will do the installation
Steve Roddy
Sep. 10, 2010 - 01:30 PM
Ground Fault Circuit Interruptors (GFCI) can be located in several places. The most common are in the bathroom, kitchen or outside compartments. Be sure to look at breakers on the inverter if it is equipped with an inverter.
Gary (Dickinson, ND)
Sep. 10, 2010 - 06:51 AM
I have a 1992 Silver Eagle Motor Home. My right side outlets and fridge don t have AC power and the breaker is good. Where is the second Ground Fault reset.
Steve Roddy
Aug. 29, 2010 - 08:23 PM
Are they spring retracted? HWH or Power Gear? Extend the jack and clean and lubricate the cylinder. Of course one jack must be the last one to retract. It is possible that the spring or springs may need to be replaced.
Joyce (VA)
Aug. 29, 2010 - 11:57 AM
I have a problem with my leveling jacks. The rear passenger jack comes up very slow. What can I do to correct this?
Show Next 15 Comments
Summer's Technically Speaking With Steve Roddy
Ask Steve
Ask Steve
Awnings, Jacks and A/C Cooling
Batteries, Refrigerators, and Aqua Hot
Awnings, air conditioners, and towing
Gear shifting, antifreeze, air conditioning and more
Batteries, tile flooring, roof re-sealing and more
Preparing a coach for travel, removing slide debris, fan troubleshooting and more
Furnaces, hot water, tire rotation and more
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Summer's Technically Speaking With Steve Roddy
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Awnings, Jacks and A/C Cooling
Batteries, Refrigerators, and Aqua Hot