Chad Y

Just now, Lolo1034 said:

Can anyone help me identify this part that is circled.  I have a 2006 Monaco Cayman Diesel pusher...its in the front engine area above the generator. 

Thank you 😊

I believe that is the vacuum generator.  The one on my 07 Neptune is a little different but in same location. 

You will like it!! I had one before the Banks kit I have.

3 minutes ago, Zigman64 said:

I did see that label near the expansion tank and opened it while filling.   How long did it take your gauge to start going up?    I’m a little nervous about running it too long unless I know that I have good circulation to the radiator. 

It took a pretty good while for the gauge to register IIRC. A diesel runs so cool that it will take awhile. I have a Banks kit with readout that shows the coolant temp digitally so it's pretty easy to tell its rising from the get go. A Scanguage is a cheap investment I would recommend to you and you'll have the same readout as I have. It sounds like you are fine just waiting on the Guage to register is you're issue.

Hey Mark, I have the same engine in my 07 Neptune. There should be a little vent knob you turn right above the expansion tank, that is the vent. My understanding you're supposed to have that open as you fill the tank. I did this a few years ago when changing my AF out and seemed to work fine.

3 hours ago, Bob Keating said:

Has anyone had this kit put on their 4 bag roadmaster chassis?

I know my shock are shot, but I am wondering if the extra money for new bags and a ping tank are worth it.

Also, I am considering a self install if I do buy the kit.

Any thoughts?

Hi Bob, I bought and installed the REK about 7-8 years ago. Was a fairly easy install, instructions were pretty thorough. It makes a big difference in the ride quality. I highly recommend the kit. The coach should have came this way from the factory but I'm sure the $$ prevented Monaco from doing it. I've done quite a bit to my chassis for better ride and handling.  If you need assistance I'd be glad to help anyway I can. 

1 hour ago, saflyer said:

Does anyone know the equivalent Monaco model of my 2005 Holiday Rambler 40 PLQ?

Thanks,       
Ed

 

 

Ed I believe the Monaco Knight is the sister coach to your Ambassador.

Chad

Tom, I had a very similar issue last summer on my Neptune Allison transmission. Mine is the 2500 tranny but I'm sure very similar plugs and such. Long story short, tech at Tom Johnson in Marion concluded we had connectors at the transmission had gotten water in them and caused erratic things. Ours went crazy half way down Black Mountain and came down the rest of the way with no exhaust brake (scary). We had driven through a frog choker earlier through the Great Smoky Mountains to about Asheville and after that she went crazy. We limped into Tom Johnson on Saturday evening. By Monday morning connectors dried out, and she shifted perfect. "Knock on wood" she's been shifting fine ever since, probably 5,000 miles.

I did take Van Will's advice and wd-40 clean  and small amount of dielectric grease on every connector on or near the tranny. Sure sounds like what just happened to you. Good luck and hope you're good to go now.

Chad Y

07 Neptune

Central NC

About a year ago I bought new AGM batteries for my 07 Neptune. On the recommendation of Bill G "hotrod" I went with the Duracell AGM batteries from Sam's. So far I've been happy with them.  Recently I've noticed the Lithium Ion batteries have come down in price and almost wish I'd have waited and gone that route.

Chad Y

3 hours ago, throgmartin said:

The most problematic awnings for slow operation is the Carefree Eclipse. It helps to lube all the pivot points with T-9 Boeshield. But chances are the problem will persist.

Problem areas are the wall plug/connector and switch but on Monaco coaches the other problem is small gauge wire used at the factory which wont carry the proper voltage to the motor. We have 2 member who ran new heavier wire internally in their coach which fixed the problem but it is a huge job and time consuming. Whenever troubleshooting a patio awning always test the motor first by jumpering it using a drill motor battery. 12 - 20 volts is fine.

On 2006/07 models there was a recall on the motors as the shaft with the flat spot would wear out. The free replacement motor program from Carefree has since run out. Pinning the shaft is a good work around.

Chris, glad to see you're still lurking around here! I surely hope you are enjoying semi-retirement and truly getting away from the business at least some.

If you recall I'd asked you a couple years ago about this same issue. You put me in touch with the guy (sorry I can't recall his name) that pioneered the larger wire to the awning fix. I emailed him to get the wire size and such that he ran. He promptly responded and was very helpful. I too ran the larger wires (IIRC the new wires were 8 gauge) and they made a huge difference. After I got the free motor replacement when my single flat spot motor failed, the awning would barely roll back unless I helped it. The larger wires make it roll up very easily now. It definitely doesn't roll up as fast as it does going out, but doesn't seem to struggle at all like it used to. Hope this helps.

Chad Y

07 Neptune

Lexington NC

25 minutes ago, MSHappyCampers said:

I wasted money on three cheapo dash cams before deciding to get a good one.  Back in October I bought a Rove R2-4K high-definition (4K).  It has built-in GPS  which I really like.  The video recording is incredible and shows the exact GPS coordinates and speed.  It's very easy to program and use.  I got it on sale at Amazon for about $100, including a 32Gb memory card.  🙂

Joe

Hey Joe, that's about what I paid for my Viofo unit. I've got it in my hand, just haven't had time to install it yet. Covered up with work and no time for play. Gonna make time soon, tired of working.

I considered a cheaper unit from the start but decided to spend a few more dollars and hopefully get a trusty, better unit. YouTube videos really helped with the decision.

Chad

On 2/9/2020 at 5:39 AM, tucsonbon said:

A power surge took out my transfer switch and some appliances.  Fortunately, the washer/dryer had a surge protector that I replaced.  The vacuum is toast and Monaco doesn't have one and the manufacturer no longer makes RV vacs.  I thought that I found one on Amazon, but, after a month they said that the supplier no longer had them; my money was returned.  Any ideas where I may find one?

I replied a day or so ago but it never posted for whatever reason?? I removed the central vac from my 07 Neptune a few years ago. I think it was the Dirt Devil model. Not sure I ever even used it. It's yours if you want it, just let me know.

Chad

9 hours ago, engine103 said:

Hi Chad, for the first test run I just used Velcro and mounted it above the wiper blades about 8/9 inches above the dash. I will also be ordering two extra GPS mounting bases so I can switch camera between two other cars which I will use the hard wire kit that is available. Jim

Thanks Jim, I was thinking maybe mounting somehow underneath the TV pod instead of attaching to the windshield. Didn't know if that would cause a glare or something being it wasn't right at the windshield. I may experiment and see what works without cluttering up the dash.

Chad

14 minutes ago, engine103 said:

Chad, I did get the VIOFO A119 V3 and I am super impressed with the video quality. I used it on a trip to Tullahoma Tn.  and back with great video both day and night. I am using https://dashcamviewer.com/ to view the videos. Check out their demo on the web page. Jim

Jim, thanks for the update. Glad you are impressed with the quality of video. I've been looking ocassionally at them on eBay hoping for a good deal. Been covered up with work lately just haven't gotten around to ordering one yet. I may try to go ahead and order one tomorrow. Of all the different YouTube videos I've seen and reading different reviews, the Viofo seems to be about the best product for that price point.

How did you mount the unit and wire it in? Was curious how others were mounting them. Thanks again

Chad

5 hours ago, johnfr said:

I was able to confirm with volt meter this morning that the relay is bad.  With engine running chassis battery was at 14.1 volts while house battery was 13.1. I confirmed that 12V was being applied to the control terminals of the relay.  Have a new one on order from Amazon.

Good deal Johnfr. I had the exact same situation. That should fix you up. Good luck on the swap out!

Chad

2 hours ago, johnfr said:

It has came to my attention that the house batteries of our '07 Cayman PDQ are not charging when we are traveling on the road. I know that I can not expect the alternator to charge house batteries that are deeply discharged. However, having been connected to shore power just prior to hitting the road, by time we get a few hours down the road the house batteries are not at full charge leading me to believe that the alternator charge is not reaching the house batteries. Our coach has a Battery Boost switch that allows connecting house batteries to chassis battery via a high amperage (Big Boy) relay in emergency situation of chassis battery becomes discharged.

I am trying to determine how the house batteries get connected to the alternator while on the road. I haven't found any kind of battery isolator. Does the battery boost relay activate to connect house batteries for charging? I have attached a couple photos showing the boost relay. Also a pdf file showing a similar 12V DC wiring diagram for a 2006 Thunder coach.

Anyone out there have any idea how the house batteries are connected to alternator for charging while on the road?

06 Patriot 12 V distribution-large.pdf 204.35 kB · 4 downloads

Johnfr, my understanding is the Trombetta relay you took the pic of is not making a connection. When the engine batteries reach a certain charge level the Trombetta closes and attaches both banks together. The older Trombetta relays are known to be copper and get a green gunk inside of them that keeps them from making a connection. You can drill the rivets out and clean the insides of it and bolt it back together and reuse it. Or, as I did, I ordered the silver plated version (same item number as the copper but the last 3 digits are 020 instead if 010) and simply swap it out. 

I had this same problem several years ago and I just swapped the old one out. I did take the old one apart and cleaned it to have as a spare. It did have the green gunk inside. Hope this helps and it's understandable.

Chad Y

Sorry to just now be getting back to this. Been covered up with work. After my research I think from all I've seen I believe the Viofo A119 v3 is the best bargain for what I need. I believe I will go ahead and order one soon as I get the chance.

I really liked the idea of the GoPro and one of the older versions is cheaper than most dash cams. However I felt like I would probably forget to turn it on where the dash cam can be set to start recording when the motorhome cranks.

Thanks again to all who responded, everyone's thoughts really helped in my search.

Chad Y

We are hoping to be able to make it again. We will not know for sure til around the end of this month, but really hoping too!!

Chad and Lorre Y

07 Neptune

Central NC

6 hours ago, Steven P said:

I did a search on the Monaco Facebook site and found several posts and have already ordered Blue Seas.  Thank you. 

Good choice Steven, I replaced my switches that were just like yours about a year ago. I went with the Blue Seas as well. Everything I've seen from Blue Seas are very well built quality products.

Chad Y

07 Neptune

Back in Lexington NC

2 hours ago, Steven P said:

I just got a dash cam from my wife for Christmas. She got it off amazon and I haven't looked into it yet.  I recently saw an informative post on using a GoPro as a dash cam and it was pretty interesting.  Wider viewing angle than a lot of dash cams, better stability and durability (think bicycle and motorcycle wrecks), small size, and mounting options.  Maybe look into them, too?

Steven, man I didn't even think of that. I'll look and see how much the GoPro cameras run. I remember someone (maybe Bill G) using an older iPhone in video mode as a dash cam as well. With the GoPro it could serve as other uses rather than just a dash cam. Thanks for replying.

Chad Y

07 Neptune

Headed back to NC

21 hours ago, engine103 said:

Hi Chad, I also am looking for a dash cam and yes this will be my first time. I have spent quite a few hours watching videos and comparing quality of several cameras. I found this video which was made December 2019 recommending three cams in Low and high price range. It's a bit long but gives excellent information. I found a good source of comparing camera quality has been watching you tube videos of bad drivers and noting usually the camera brand name is in the video at the bottom of the picture. $30 may or may not give you a cam you will be happy with and if you want GPS logging or other features you will have to up the price a bit. If you want, watch the video and pay attention to the VIFO A119 V3.  I don't own one yet but I think after looking at the video quality and features it will be the one I get. Jim  (skip the man scaping commercial at the beginning)

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=weWE5oQIS8M

 

Thanks engine 103, looks to be a great video on YouTube. I haven't had a chance to watch it fully yet. We are heading back to NC from FL so it'll be a couple days. Once I get home I'll have some time to look some more. 

Chad Y

07 Neptune

Headed from FL back to NC

32 minutes ago, Scotty Hutto said:

I've heard from several folks over the past couple of years that one of Bill D 's big recommendations for getting rid of electrical gremlins was to clean all of the connectors and grounds on your coach.

Sooo... what's the best way to clean?  Spray contact cleaner? Solvent?  Wire brush?  Different for different connections?

Do you put anything on them to keep them clean and healthy?  What?

Thanks,

Scotty

Scotty,

I had an issue back this summer with water in a connector to my Allison transmission. A wise man (Van Williams) told me to use WD-40 on the connection and to plug and unplug a couple times to "clean" the connection. After it dried use some dielectric grease to seal it. I did that to my transmission connections and (knock on wood) haven't had any more trouble.

Now your question included pics of your batteries. I'm not sure WD-40 would work best in that situation or not. Someone else may chime in there. I have used the CRC brand battery terminal cleaner and protectant with good success on the batteries. Hope this helps.

Chad Y

07 Neptune

Currently Orlando FL

8 hours ago, Ivan K said:

There are so many choices with pretty much the same nice features but the ones I like are GPS data recording and an active hdmi output so that I can put it on the front TV if we have a family traveling with us on occasion so they can see what I see. Next one will have wifi connectivity too. I use an old iPhone with a camera app to monitor the interior and/or dogs while we are away sometimes.

Ivan, thanks for replying! I had read about GPS recording but hadn't seen about the HDMI output. I guess I've been looking at the cheaper units. I guess anything is better than nothing as long as it's actually a visible picture. Good idea to monitor the dogs from away. We have only had a puppy about 9 months now so just getting used to having one around. Be nice to keep an eye on him while away.

I'll keep looking and try make a decision on one before too long. We usually don't camp much if any in Jan or Feb so I usually try to take care of updates and such in the off time. I'll have one picked out and installed before March, hopefully!!

Chad Y

07 Neptune

Currently Orlando FL

Thanks for replying Scotty and Richard, Scotty I looked on your link and it looks like a nice unit. I really like the shape of it better than most others as well. Man the reviews are all over the place on all of them. Most reviews are excellent, then you read a few that are just terrible. I'll keep researching and decide on something. Thanks again for the recommendations.

Chad Y

07 Neptune

Currently Orlando FL

Hello everyone! First time posting on the new site. Love the new site, huge thanks to all who had a hand in the transformation. It was undoubtedly a large undertaking.

My question for everyone, who has a dash cam? I remember a post awhile back that a couple had one but seems a long time ago. I just got to thinking of all the crazy people on the roads it might not be a bad idea to at least have something. 

I've seen some recommended as low as $30 and came across an Apeman c450 that was recommended as a good buy for the value. Curious what everyone is using if any and any recommendations. Thanks

Chad Y

07 Neptune

Currently Orlando FL