Lee Smith

Okay I am now convinced a water pump is likely not needed. My general rule on my previously owned pick-up trucks was not to even consider a water pump until after 70,000 miles and even then, I waited for a failure to do a replacement. Of course, in my Signature that would be a mistake to wait for failure but based on the information I have received here and other places, I should not be anywhere near ready for a water pump replacement at 1,250 hours. No one has told me that the age of 18 years old is an issue. I am very thankful for the help I received on this great forum. Please see my fuel injector post for a very similar follow-up.

Okay so in further checking I find that it is apparently not necessary to have the injectors serviced unless there is a problem. I switched from the local Cummins shop to an RV Service center that I used a few years ago when I had a Class C. They put me in touch with their 78-year-old part time generator mechanic and he explained in detail how he determines if the injectors need service. Does not seem likely they will. He recommended the use of "Sea Foam" to clean the injectors if needed. He said he could probably get the entire service done in one day. I will take it in for service on Wednesday. I will post how this works out. I am very thankful for the help I received on this great forum. Please see my water pump post for a very similar follow-up.

The Periodic Maintenance list, per the Onan/Cummins manual, states that the fuel injectors service is to be performed at the 1,000-hour service or at least every five years. I just bought my 2004 Signature in April of this year. My generator is 18 years old, and I have no records to show what has been serviced. I am scheduled to have the 1,000-hour service done next week at the only nearby Cummins Service Center. Unfortunately, they left the fuel injector service off the estimate and when I asked to have it included, they responded "Due to equipment constraints we are currently unable to perform the injector service at this time". Sounds kind of odd plus the fact that they did not disclose ahead of time is somewhat troubling. Any thoughts? Thank you,

I am having the Onan generator 1,000-hour service done. How long do you think the original water pump will last? My coach is a 2004 Signature, and I don't know how age affects the internal parts in a water pump such as seals, etc. The generator has only 1,250 hours but I am do not have any records as to when the generator was serviced so I am having the 1,000-hour service done as preventative maintenance. Please share your information on replacing the water pump. Thank you.

No, usually only #2 Diesel. Sometimes, depending on the state, biodiesel is sold. If needed, you can get DEF. Fortunately, I do not use DEF. Each fueling lane allows you to fill up from either side. My manual says to fill up from only one side. When you first pull into the selected gas lane, note your lane number and head to the cashier to pay for your estimated fuel amount. After fueling, pull forward far enough to allow the next vehicle in the lane and then go back to the cashier and get your receipt for the actual amount pumped. Before pulling up, you can air your tires and clean your windshield. Tires should be aired cold, but you will need to adjust if you have already driven more than a mile. My manual has a section on how to do the adjustment.

In April of this year, I made the trip from Portland down I5 to Sacramento and then via I80 through Nevada, Utah, Wyoming, Nebraska, Iowa and then down I74 and I70 through Illinois, Indiana, Ohio, then I79 to West Virginia and I68 East to a short leg on I70 then to I81 South and home to Virginia. In Virginia I would take I66 to US 17 South (take the Warrenton, Virginia Exit) down to Fredericksburg, Virginia for I95 South all the way to Florida. Most times, I take the Interstate bypasses. Elevations were sometimes difficult but when a semi in front of me slowed down with his blinkers on, I slowed down and stayed behind him with my blinkers on. The I80 Interstate through Nevada, Utah, Wyoming, Nebraska and Iowa was terrible. I thought that the rough roads were going to shake my 2004 Signature apart. The high winds in the open Plain's states were alarming but the computer-controlled air ride suspension system worked well and kept me safe. I would never take that route again due to the rough Interstate roads. I have no knowledge of the southern route through Oklahoma, but I would certainly try it. I always get Diesel #2 at the truck sections. Truckers are polite as long as you conform to their way of queuing up which is not hard to figure out after one stop. I only tried to make 300 to 400 miles a day and filled up every morning. I used the RV Life trip wizard to plan my campground stops and the RV Garmin to route my trips. RV Garming does a great job of tracking rest stops and truck stops. As to rest stops, I had a bad experience with riffraff in a non-staffed Oregon stop so I tried to make all of my stops at staffed areas after that. Sometimes I would get off at a rest stop but if it looked unstaffed, I just kept going. I never traveled at night. It was unnecessary as I usually left a campground by 8 in the morning and stopped at the next campground by 4 or 5 in the afternoon. The RV Life Trip Wizard was essential in planning campground stops. That way I could stay in my self-imposed 300 to 400 miles a day. I tried to plan a couple of days out and make my reservations accordingly. Even in April I had some booking problems. Next trip, I will plan and book my stops before leaving on the trip. I also used "Drive Weather" daily on my cell phone to work around weather problems. That was a great asset in order to time my travels around bad weather. Good luck and have a safe trip.

The picture posted by Ivan K, as above, is spot on. On the backside of the muffler is a short pipe that connects to the generator manifold. It is totally detached (broken) from the muffler. I talked with a local muffler shop and they said they cannot fabricate a replacement. Attached is the parts diagram for my model. See the part listed as number 1. Muffler Part Page 1.pdf Muffler Part Page 2.pdf

Wow, that is an excellent picture. I am not sure about existing hose damage as I have not taken the top and side panels off. Just to be on the safe side, I will order a replacement hose. I am certainly on the side of not running the generator. I can just take the RV on the necessary trips in the early morning or evening. Thank you very much.

My diesel generator has 1,250 hours on the meter. Recently, I noticed that it was louder than normal and no exhaust flow at the pipe outlet. I pulled the top inspection plate off and found that the very short pipe connecting the muffler to the exhaust manifold was completely broken off. My local Cummins Parts Dealer tells me the part is approximately four weeks out and will run $1,024. Part Number 155-3151. I have not located any viable alternatives including having it fabricated locally. In the meantime, I would like to run the generator to provide A/C in our very hot Virginia summer weather to the front of the coach while I drive about two hours each way to get my windshield replaced. Plus another trip of about the same duration to get the RV inspected. Does anyone have knowledge about harming the diesel generator by running it without a muffler? It may be a back pressure issue but I personally have no idea. Furthermore, I had already run the generator several times for hours at time before I figured out what was going on. Thank you for your thoughts and suggestions.

That is great. Thanks for the photos and details. Please post a copy of the parts order so that others can duplicate your success. Thank you.

I need to add a follow-up to include wiper blades. I had wanted to switch to a Wexco# 13732 as it does appear that Wexco does a good job with the wind resistance issue, but Rome Truck Parts was out of stock on the Wexco and recommended a Sprague C-2487 - $30.47. I researched the Sprague, and it looks like a very good blade, so I ordered a set yesterday. Here is a link to the Sprague blade: C-2487 | Sprague Devices (sprague-devices.com)

My problem has been solved because I was able to locate all the parts that I needed to do a complete re-build of my 2004 Signature. Please see my other post as listed below: https://www.monacoers.org/topic/4376-2004-monaco-signature-windshield-wiper-retro-upgrade-kit/?do=findComment&comment=39513&_rid=5726 Thanks to everyone for the help.

Success: I was starting to follow a path to purchase a complete retro-upgrade wiper kit from a Wiper Technologies Vendor which was quoted at $750. Fortunately for me that hit a roadblock when they asked for pictures of the installation location and then informed me there was a motor mounting conflict with the dash AC system. I say fortunately because Kristin at Rome Truck Parts was able to get all of the parts I need to do a complete rebuild with the exception of the wiper motor which I was able to get from Veurink's RV Center. Of course, I did not purchase the motor mounting hardware as nothing was wrong with the original on my Signature. I received the parts and have installed the replacement wiper arm, but I am holding off on the complete rebuild for now. All of the parts appear to be correct but when I do install them, I will complete this post. Following is the Rome Truck Parts Invoice which lists their part numbers and pricing, a link to the Veurink's RV Center wiper motor, which when received I noticed it was an OEM with the original part number, and a parts list for a 2003 Monaco Signature (I apologize for not crediting where I got this, but I lost track). The 2003 list is actually a MCC 2002 WIN CHAS -Wiper Kit but the post I copied it from said it worked for the 2003 Signature. That statement does appear to be correct but the wiper kit number as listed is different. Probably the motor mounting brackets as all of the parts do work on the 2003 and 2004 Signatures. Anway, I feel extremely fortunate to have received such great help on this forum. Thank you to everyone who helped me out. Lee Smith Rome Truck Parts Invoice .pdf 12V Wiper Motor 4 pin for motorhome windshield wiper assembly I 159100-7370 I 09302946 I 10107182 (findmyrvparts.com) 2003 Monaco Signature Wiper Assembly.pdf

George, Thanks for the long and detailed reply. That is exactly what I needed. I had the same problem with the nut holding the wiper arm on. However, when mine gave out, the spline attaching to the pivot was stripped out totally which meant that I had to replace the wiper arm. I did not think I would ever be able to track down a replacement wiper arm but finally did. It should arrive next Wednesday. I hope it fits on pivot. I was thinking that Blue Loctite was in order so that was good to hear your thoughts on that. I will be sure to torque it correctly and check every now and then. My washer hoses work fine but they are useless in the spray they put out. Hardly cleans anything at all no matter how I adjust them. I see wiper hose wet kits advertised so I was going to look at replacing mine to get something that sprays correctly. I sent Wexco https://www.wexcoind.com/ an email contact to see what they have for aero dynamic wet wipers that may fit my Signature. My thinking is that by keeping my existing wiper arms I may be able to make a pair of their high-tech wipers work. Are the 2005 Exec wiper arms still available? It looks like the same arm works on the 2006 but I do not know how far forward Monaco used the 2005/2006 style. If they kept using that style, the availability may be better. It is a distinctly different style than the 2004. However, my research indicates that the 2005 uses the same pivot as my 2004. However, my 2004 uses a different pivot for the for each side while your 2005 only lists one style pivot for both sides. If I find out anything meaningful, I will be sure to post it.

I take it you are from Arizona. Me too. I was born in Tucson but left before the 1st grade. Went back in 1985 to 1989 but the construction economy in Tucson went flat so we high tailed it to Virginia. I will keep everyone posted on how this potential change from 2004 style to 2005 style works. As a result of my internet searches, I have seen several posts about the bad aero dynamics of 32" wipers. The answer for some is to switch to 28" wiper blades which should be simple and use the existing wiper arms. The 05 Signature wiper arm looks better for aero dynamics, but I am only speculating. I see that WEXCO makes great claims about aero dynamics for Class A large wipers. Sure wish I could figure that one out for my 2004 Signature. https://www.wexcoind.com/

I am still working with my wiper issues and next week I hope to post the resolution to my post about a retro upgrade kit for my 2004 Signature. Meanwhile, I noticed that the wiper arm style was changed quite a bit from the 2004 to the 2005. It looks to me like the 2005 is a far better wiper and may fit on the 2004. Any opinions or thoughts on this? Here are pictures of 2004, 2005 and 2006 Signatures: 2004 Signature 2005 Signature 2006 Signature

Problem Solved. Thank you to all who provided so very much detailed and on target information that allowed me to troubleshoot the "Transfer Switch" and "Surge Suppressor" which enabled me to eliminate both as the problem. The solution was on page 12-6 of the Onan HDCAB Service Manual as follows: NO AC POWER WHEN GENSET IS RUNNING 3. Check voltage at genset AC output terminal block TB2 when the genset is running. If there is approximately 120 VAC across TB2-1 and TB2-3 and across TB2-2 and TB2-3, repair or reconnect the wiring between the genset and the main vehicle distribution panel. If there is no voltage, go to Step 4. 4. Check for proper AC harness connections and repair as necessary (p. A-3). I removed a small generator topside panel to gain access to the AC output terminal block TB2 and check the voltage readings. The voltage readings were exactly what I had measured at the transfer switch terminal block. Leg 2 (white genset to red harness) of the Genset power feed wire was so loose it had pulled totally out of the terminal block connector. While working on Leg 2, the Leg 1 black genset harness wire came totally loose. I re-did the connections properly and fired up the generator. The Alladin coach electrical status now showed that the generator was showing 118 volts plus on both legs. I waited a few minutes and then turned on the three roof-top ac units to "condition the brushes" as suggested. What a joy to have the units fire up properly. While troubleshooting the transfer switch, due to the low quality terminal block connections from the generator, I began to suspect that an inexperienced RV repair center worker had done previous generator work. In that regard, the prior owner had spent a small fortune to have the generator control board replaced, which is likely when the poor electrical connection work occurred. I am very grateful to all of the good people on this forum who took the time to respond to my post. I now have an up and running 12.5 kw diesel generator in which the repair did not cost me anything more than my time.

Thank you for all of that knowledge. I will do a little more checking but it does look like tech time.

Okay, that helps as I was not sure of the two hot sides. The red wire was making a good connection at the transfer switch. Good idea to check the output at the generator. Thank you.

2004 Monaco Signature Conquest It appears to me my ESCO transfer switch is not working. What appears to be the connector switch to send generator power to the interior 50-amp panel does not close when the generator is running, and shore power not connected. The transfer switch connections for the generator have 118 volts between Hot Leg L4 (black) and Neutral Leg L5(white). Also has 118 volts between Hot Leg L4 and common ground bar. There is no voltage between L6(red) and L5(white) or L6 and common ground. With generator off and connected to shore power the 50-amp interior panel functions fine. The surge suppressor works fine. I am not sure, but since the Coach only needs/uses 110 power, the L5 leg is not needed as that would generate 220 power across L4 and L6. Is there a way to test the transfer switch? Generator power incoming is at 118 volts on L4 but nothing out the other side as connector does not appear to close. Any ideas are greatly appreciated. Here are pictures: Connections From Generator To Transfer Switch Onan Generator Specifications Transfer Switch Lable Transfer Switch Wiring (Shore and Generator) Transfer Switch Contact Switch -Open When On Generator Power With Shore Power Not Connected Thank you for your help,

I just returned from Victoria, British Columbia. Based on the experienced hand advice from all, I waited until April 6 to pick up our new (new to us) 2004 Monaco Signature Conquest from my now fine Canadian friend. First was on to the ferry to get from Victoria to the mainland. I lined up with the semi-trucks on the lower enclosed deck. Quite an experience for a brand-new Class A driver. Then to US Customs to import the RV. Thanks to a very capable American Customs Broker, no import fees as the Monaco was originally made in Coburg, Oregon and initially imported into Canada, and smooth sailing in under 1 hour. Then on to Oregon where a late spring snowstorm closed the passes (for me) on I-5 South on my way to Sacramento, California. Ironically, I waited in seven days in Coburg, Oregon at an RV park just 2 miles from the location of the plant where the RV was made. Of course, that plant was long gone. Then on to I-80 East through Reno, Salt Lake City, Cheyene, Omaha and to Davenport where a slight south turn picked up I-74 east. I-74 East through Indianapolis, Dayton, Columbus and then I-79 south to Morgantown where I picked up I-68 east to a small segment of I-70 east to I-81 south and on to a temporary storage home in Winchester, Virginia. I reckon about 3,700 miles. Only mechanical event was a windshield wiper problem which is extensively discussed in a separate post. The 2004 Signature was in excellent shape, inside and out, as promised by the seller. It was an amazing experience to learn to drive such a highly engineered and capable vehicle on the fly at the age of 70. I celebrated my birthday 2 days after arriving back in Virginia. My wife and I are looking so forward to our "bucket list" of adventures and years of enjoyment. The great people on this forum in no small way contributed greatly to our success. Thank you very much. Here are some pictures:

All of the advice and technical details are spot on. Based on all of the information everyone provided, I went out and did a new radius review. I have decided to do a 5' extension of my culvert and an associated apron adjustment. Just to be on the safe side. Thanks to all for the great help.

The RV is currently in storage at an RV Park while I get my driveway entrance expanded. I expect to have it home in about a week. I will then post pictures and measurements. I like your ideas and offer to help. No, the motor is fine. I just want a spare. Since having wiper problems on the road is such a challenge I want to be prepared. Thank you very much. I will contact them. They certainly have a great web site to help identify the parts. Thank you very much.

Great advice. Thanks.

I need to replace one wiper arm but am not able to find a new one. I have been in touch with a vender "BJ's RV and Marine Parts and Accessories" who is a dealer for the newly sold "Wiper Technologies". It appears that they may be able to make a retro upgrade kit for around $695. Apparently includes everything. He is presently verifying that it can be made. I am leaning this way as I am very cautious about another wiper malfunction on the road. I am quickly learning that being ready ahead of time is the best defense. In that regard, the help I get on this forum is very valuable. My thanks to everyone. My alternative is to buy used wiper arms from Visone, buy uplinks, buy a spare set of blades and try to locate a new motor. If anyone has a parts list and or diagram for the original "Wiper Technologies" that would be a very big help. The guy at BJ's had me take a picture of the kit number as listed on the wiper motor. Thank you in advance for your help.