If you expect the RV industry to be like every other industry, then you may be fooling yourself. The RV industry is more like the old wild west where every town, city, and county did its own thing. It
Continue readingOne thing about older RVs, finding information about them can be very difficult. Most people are interested n the most recent models so keeping information around for older models becomes a lesser priority.
Continue readingIf you ever look at the history of RVs, you will find a lot of creativity in the design and features used over the years. The word unique is the best word to use for the 1988 Cadillac Starstreak.When it
Continue readingWhen you look at the owner’s manual for this leveling system, there should be no difficulty in operating these leveling jacks. However, no matter how easy it is to understand the instructions mechanical
Continue readingThat dreaded tongue weight. Well maybe not dreaded but it can be a pain to get the actual weight without a lot of calculations. But this work is necessary to make sure you do not exceed your tongue weight
Continue readingOne thing about spotting the location of different components is: Those locations will change depending on the era the motor was made. In the Cummins case, it changed to a 24-valve system and computer,
Continue readingThis is one of the many frustrating things about owning an RV. The RV makers have at least 1001 places to locate the components. Due to different floor plans, even the same model series may not have all
Continue readingTechnically, this transmission was the TH700RA replacement. However, it was actually the 4L60 that was the replacement in 1993. The ‘e’ stands for electronic and this model did not make its appearance
Continue readingWhen you are looking at buying this type of oil, you will run into these two types. While they both do a good job of lubricating machine and heavy equipment parts, they are not necessarily the same. There
Continue readingIf you want to get away from the boring RV campgrounds and experience something different, you may want to sign up at Harvest Host. This company brings a unique twist to RV life but its style may not be
Continue readingEven if that help comes from non-traditional sources, having it may help you avoid disasters when you are on the road and towing a nice trailer behind your vehicle. That constructive help can come from
Continue readingIt is without a doubt that your RV experience will be enhanced by the condition of the tires on your specific RV. If you have any doubt about your tires, you won’t be able to relax as you drive. Being
Continue readingWhen you are a first-time RV furnace user, do not be afraid to ask your questions. That is how you learn to use different RV appliances including the furnace. After one or two times using them, you become
Continue readingThese vehicles may be old but they still have value. Generally, they are smaller RVs so they are easier to drive. The two drawbacks to owning a vintage RV is there may be a lot of repair work and many
Continue readingNecessity is the mother of invention. The necessity to protect one’s catalytic converter from theft has spawned new inventions to protect those key vehicle parts. The questions are whether will they
Continue readingPaccar is the odd man out. It seems that the fault codes for this company do not line up with the other fault code lists. The company guards its information very carefully and you may have to talk directly
Continue readingTo tell you the truth, we do not like how they numbered the official SPN fault code list. It takes more time to find the code in question than it does to diagnose the actual problem. You will find it…
Continue readingFirst put into production in 1969, the TH350 was hailed as one of the best transmissions to be designed. That status did not last long as it was phased out by 1982 and possibly 1984. No matter the short
Continue readingOne thing about modern technology is that it develops special equipment for different vehicles. In this case, the special equipment will be for medium and heavy-duty trucks. You may not have to worry about
Continue readingThere may be those people who do not know what the term ‘crankcase’ means. This is the metal casing of the engine block that not only holds the crankshaft but also the majority of oil in your engine.
Continue readingOnce those amber and red lights get illuminated on your dash, you need to get more information. That is what the SPN FMI code system is all about. Unfortunately, some of these codes just do not bring the
Continue readingWhen you look up codes do not ignore the GHG 14, GHG 17, or the EPA 10. The numbers refer to the regulation years your repairs have to meet once the repairs are completed.The SPN 5435 FMI 7 code means-
Continue readingFinding fault code definitions is not always an easy task as different modules or components are made by different companies. For example, the ABS braking system can be built by Bendix or by Wabco OnGuard.
Continue readingWhen you look at the official SPN code list, you will see they have categories for Freightliner, Detroit Diesel, and Cummins motors and there is an official SPN FMI list. However, all those lists are almost
Continue readingOften people will give you the answer to the oil capacity of an engine. However, they often forget to mention that you have to pre-fill the oil filter. If you forget to do that, you may see you are full
Continue readingThe forgotten device. Everyone knows that they need to put oil in the crankcase, coolant in the radiator, power steering fluid in the power steering reservoir, and water in the window washer container.
Continue readingYou may think you know all the parts that are included in your new RV but wait till something breaks. When it does you find all sorts of parts you may not have thought about when living in your RV. The
Continue readingOne of the first steps in this project is to realize any RV furniture removal will not be like removing furniture from a traditional home. The RV construction is done in such a way as to allow room for
Continue readingEverything is specialized these days. In the old days of the mid-20th century fluids were fluids and engines and transmission could run on just about any type of fluid you could buy. But in today’s modern
Continue readingOne thing about fault codes. Unless engine builders go back to the 1960s way of building engines, you will always see a fault code at some point in time. There are too many devices on your engine for none
Continue readingThe lists do not always cover every code or every issue you need at the time. The official SPN fault code list starts at 100001 and FMI 0. That means it does not go below 100 when you get to the 3-digit
Continue readingTires are not just tires. They may all look the same but they are not. There are differences between all tires including those that have the same numbers. Sometimes the differences are so slight you won’t
Continue readingThe numbers for the FMI fault code system stop around 20 or 21. But there are numbers that are listed above those two. Those extra numbers are usually labeled as reserved for SAE use. Someone can always
Continue readingWhen you do your own research on fault codes, you will find some extra letters after the FMI portion of the code. These letters, EPA and GHG do have meaning when you see them on the data sheets when you
Continue readingWhen you get an error code on your dash, you expect to be able to find the right instructions to perform the repair. That is not always going to happen and it is disappointing when you get a code that
Continue readingThere are so many error codes in the modern engine that no one may see all of them in their lifetime. Modern engines have so many parts to them and are so complex, you may also trade your truck or car
Continue readingWith the fault code system, you have two different data links being used in different vehicles. Some can come with the J1707 system while others will be using the J1939 and some may have both. This multi-level
Continue readingSensors devices are what the ECM and other modules depend on to get the information to operate your engine and other components. When the sensors send bad information, then you get these different codes.
Continue readingNot all codes concern a real problem. That may be a good thing. Sometimes all you need is information so you know what you should do in the near future. The correct thing to do in this case is not to delay
Continue readingWith over 50,000 SPN codes, it stands to reason that there is at least one that watches over your oil supply. But do not be surprised if a code for oil shows up with codes for other components in your
Continue readingYou may be the lucky one and get one of those rare codes that only pop up once in a blue moon. The lack of available information only means that you have to go to a mechanic or a dealer to get the proper
Continue readingWhen it comes to the CAT 15, which started production in 1999, there are 10 variations. However, of those ten only about three are significant. You have the original version, the Bridge, and the ACERT
Continue readingThat is the way it is with SPN FMI codes. Some may have only one meaning but others, like SPN 171 code has over 10 different applications. It is one of the more populous fault codes on the SPN list.The
Continue readingTo keep this powerful engine running on all cylinders means you have to look after it on a regular basis. Changing the oil is not enough. You need to make sure that you use the right type of oil as well
Continue readingWhen it comes to fault code lists, there are many manufacturers that have created their own. While they relate to the standard SPN and FMI codes, some of these lists can be confusing if you are not paying
Continue readingWhen you try to fix different fault codes yourself, you will find that some information is missing. That makes doing home repairs almost impossible these days. When you find lists with missing information,
Continue readingWith unheard-of parts, the explanations can be more confusing than the code. Trying to figure out the explanations and what you are to do can take some time. However, it can be done eventually and you
Continue readingNot every fault code will cause a derate. That is one of the good aspects of these fault codes. If you catch them early enough, you may never experience the troubling derate option many other owners have
Continue readingAll it states on the official FMI code lists is ‘condition exists’. You may already know that because your vehicle is not operating as it should. It could be more helpful if it provided a source and
Continue readingWhen you own a diesel, one of the things you may notice is that diesel-powered vehicles may have more fault codes than gas-powered ones. One reason for this is that the diesel engine has to meet stricter
Continue readingThe official SPN FMI fault code list is extensive but not exhaustive so you may not always find the code on that list. But you can always go to Cummin’s list to find it.This code is Cummins fault code
Continue readingThat is the trouble with the modern error or fault code system. There are far too many codes and when you add in the FMI subcode, the number balloons even more. Finding the right answer is not always going
Continue readingWhen it comes to vehicle fluids, DEF is the most recent. That means it may be harder to find top-quality DEF fluid as it is easy to make and easy to sell. Fortunately, vehicle makers have put a warning
Continue readingIt is impossible to memorize and know all the fault codes for every brand of generator, engine, or appliance. There are just too many of them. But when you can’t remember or do not know what a fault
Continue readingWith all the new regulations that have been implemented since the late 1990s, more parts have been invented. More parts mean more possible failures and more fault codes to learn.The SPN 3464 FMI 16 fault
Continue readingOne of the things about these SPN codes is that there are far more than most people will count. Most people will give up once they reach one hundred but that is not even the tip of the iceberg when it
Continue readingWhen you get a specific SPN code, you can see up to 21 FMI sub-codes illuminated with that one SPN number. There are a few more than 21 FMI codes but most are reserved for future use by the SAE. This can
Continue readingIt can happen to you. That is one thing about these error codes, they do not discriminate. All error codes will react to the same situation no matter what type of RV coach you own. The key is to make sure
Continue readingIt is not always easy when you are looking up codes on the SPN list. It is not always a simple task. The reason for that is that the official list puts the 5-digit numbers in between many 4-digit numbers.
Continue readingWhen you buy a modern motor, you will find that there seems to be a code for just about every problem imaginable. You probably never thought so many things could go wrong with a motor. Unfortunately, that
Continue readingWhen you start exploring the world of fault codes, you will find that different engine and other manufacturers have their own code lists. This just adds to the confusion especially when they do not line
Continue readingWhile one tire is wider than another, those differences may only be minimal. The reason for that is that one tire is wider than another. The rest of the tire is made according to the same specs for both
Continue readingWhile some people may think that all tires are the same, there is a vast difference between them. The numbers on the sidewall actually mean something, and those numbers help you find the right tires for
Continue readingThere has been a change made around the beginning of the 21st century. Car manufacturers started to change the odometers in the vehicles they made. This also changed how miles on your vehicle were calculated.
Continue readingWhen you are looking at two different-sized tires, there will be more than just the width that is different. Some of those differences are invisible and only show up at the right time. Just watch the brand
Continue readingYou may or may not get both in the tires you choose. Picking the right tire for your vehicle will depend a lot on your driving preferences, habits, and road conditions. It is a lot to think about but when
Continue readingNo matter what type of engine you own, there seems to be a fault code for every problem imaginable under the sun. The problem is finding the right list that contains all those codes so you know what is
Continue readingWhen you see one of the myriads of SPN codes pop up on your screen, you know it is not going to be good news. While some of the news from SPN codes is not that bad, generally, most of them are. Once you
Continue readingOne of the things you can count on is the fact that tires will be different. Even if they are made by the same company. There will always be one tire model that will have positives and negatives, the other
Continue readingMany fault codes refer to the electrical systems a vehicle has. One may get the idea that all fault codes deal with electronic sensors or other parts. But not always. This is a mechanical fault that may
Continue readingWhenever you see a name change for the same product, it is easy to assume that there must be a difference. However, that difference may be so minuscule you wonder why they changed the name in the first
Continue readingIt depends on the type of ignition system you have. With older cars, the ones without electronic key fobs, leaving the key in the ignition did nothing but prove you have a bad memory. As long as the key
Continue readingWhile fault codes help you with the diagnosis, there are just too many of them. But without them, you wouldn’t know where to begin when fixing your engine.The SPN 639 FMI 9 fault code equals Cummins
Continue readingTraction vs. Cost. This is always a tough decision to make when it comes to tires. The wider tires offer more traction and better grip, but they also cost more than the narrower tires. The tire you pick
Continue readingOnce the electronic and technological age took over, there had to be a method to guide repairs. The simplest solution was to create fault codes. Some are easy to understand and others are not. It is a
Continue readingIf it isn’t traffic… then it may be construction. When you get around the larger cities, it may be possible to avoid one but not the other. When you ask people for the best route be prepared to sort
Continue readingGood tires are not just for trucks, SUVs, and RVs. Everyone who owns a car, no matter its size, needs to have good tires on their vehicles. Then they need to take care of them once they are on. Finding
Continue readingNot all fault codes list come with a numerical listing. Some may just be abbreviated words from the actual problem. This can slow things down somewhat when you are trying to find out what is wrong with
Continue readingThat is the way it is with new systems or any system for that matter. Once you understand how they work, they become very easy. The same can be said for finding what fault codes mean. Once you understand
Continue readingWhen a manufacturer or retail outlet puts a link in their ads that says click to get a quote or something similar. That is always one red flag letting you know that the price may be a bit high. But that
Continue readingWith all the new diesel regulations and standards finding the small parts can get tough. They are usually placed in out-of-the-way spots and are often hard to view as other larger parts block your view.
Continue readingOver the years the SAE has developed a fault code system to help mechanics and DIY mechanics figure out what was wrong with their modern engines. This system is supposed to make repair work a little easier
Continue readingThere are a myriad of fault codes. That is one thing about these modern engines. The regulations engine makers have to meet are astronomical. Thus the engines themselves have far too many parts that can
Continue readingNo matter who is to blame, the car or truck owner is stuck with clearing those fault codes that let them know what is wrong with their vehicle.To clear fault codes, you would need a code reader, a scanner,
Continue readingPeople like bringing their toys. No matter how old one gets, having their toys within easy reach is essential. The way for RV owners to bring their toys is to buy a good box trailer. A toy hauler is okay
Continue readingWhile diagrams are very helpful, sometimes they are drawn in such a way they are hard to follow and understand. But when you are doing a DIY repair, diagrams are your best tool and guide.Throughout this
Continue readingState licensing requirements can be stressful. But if you read the book carefully, study hard as well as practice, you should be able to pass the requirements and walk out of the DMV with your new non-CDL
Continue readingWe just read their website. WOW! What can you say? It seems to be the ideal discount app that everyone would want in their wallets. Their website is impressive as well but one wonders where they make their
Continue readingIt is not an easy drive. Traveling to Alaska by the road, yes, there is only two of them, is not something everyone will enjoy. Gas stations are few and far in between, and the pavement ends in the middle
Continue readingWhen you are looking at buying a Detroit 60 series engine, you will find that there are three types to choose from. The 11.1, the 12.7, and the 14 L are the models that are available but they do not always
Continue readingOne of the problems you may have is when you want to change the transmission fluid in this model of transmission. The dealers may not know which type you should use. Avoid Mercon LV at all costs according
Continue readingWhen you are going to tow a 5th wheel or any trailer, the biggest challenge is getting the weight distribution correct. There are so many capacities to watch out for that you can get a bit frustrated.
Continue readingNo matter the brand, there are common problems shared by all RV fridges. What caused the problem in one brand of a fridge can also be the cause keeping your Norcold fridge from cooling. Just look for the
Continue readingLooking for something better. That is the reason many small RV manufacturers get started in the first place. The owners are not happy with the quality of the current RV builds, so they try to improve on
Continue readingWhile some RVers advocate that you sneak in and sneak out of a hotel parking lot, you would be committing a crime if you do. You will need clear permission from the hotel manager or owner before you can
Continue readingThere are many RV owners that have found Chins Batteries to be very good. Of course, they are taking the word of Will Prowse for the level of quality of this battery (watch the video at the end of
Continue readingOne of the biggest mistakes consumers make is taking the manufacturer’s word for their product. In the case of RVs and trailers, this is a big mistake because the lack of quality in their construction
Continue readingIt is a dog-eat-dog world. You may run across many RV companies that seem to appear for only a short time in the RV industry and then disappear over the horizon. It is a very competitive industry when
Continue readingOne of the things you will find out is that the longer you own a vehicle, the harder it is to get parts. That is because manufacturers stop making parts after so many years. When they do that, parts are
Continue readingThere are small adjustments you can make that will open or close the awning a little bit. For those adjustments, you will need an Allen wrench. The screws are marked with as + and a - so you know which
Continue reading