Tow Bar Safety
Getting the most from your
equipment
page 12
December/January
2011
February/March 2011
AApprriill//MMaayy 22001111
Cooling Down Air conditioner repair tips,
checklists, and more
starting on page 5
Dealership Compliance
The effects of new federal
regs on RV generators
page 14
Storm damage repair tips page 11
Maintaining tow equipment
page 12
5 Repairing Air Conditioners For Profit
11 Storm Repair Tips For Air Conditioners
12 Maintaining The Safety And Value Of Towing Equipment
14 New EPA/CARB Rules For Gas Generator Installations
16 How NOT To Install A Generator
DEPARTMENTS
3 Board of Directors
4 From the Editor
18 New Products
February/March 2011
BODY REPAIR
EXTERIOR REPAIR
HOT PRODUCTS
Diesels
TOP THIS!
Certification
page 20
Air conditioner repair
page 5
New regs for gas generators
page 14
AIR CONDITIONERS
STORM DAMAGE
EQUIPMENT
GENERATORS
TOP THIS!
April/May 2011
Director Tim O'Brien Circle K RVs, Inc. Lapeer, MI (810) 664-1942 [email protected] Director Randy Packard Natl Assn of RV Parks & Campgrounds/Pine Acres Family Camping Resort Oakham, MA (508) 882-9511 [email protected] Director Steve Plemmons Bill Plemmons RV World Rural Hall, NC (336) 377-2213 [email protected] Director Jim Sheldon Monaco RV, LLC Rancho Mirage, CA (760) 883-5556 [email protected] Director Tom Stinnett Tom Stinnett RV Freedom Center Clarksville, IN (812) 282-7718 [email protected] Director Ed Thor Coach-Net Lake Havasu City, AZ (928) 855-2860 [email protected] Director Brian Wilkins Wilkins R.V., Inc. Bath, NY (607) 776-3103 [email protected]
RVDA LEARNING CENTER BOARD OF DIRECTORS
Chuck Boyd
Dealer Services Manager Susan Charter
Associate Services Manager Hank Fortune
Director of Finance Jeff Kurowski
Director of Industry Relations Brett Richardson, Esq., CAE
Director of Legal & Regulatory Affairs
Liz Shoemaker
Education Coordinator Butch Thomas
Field Representative Robin Walker
Accountant Tony Yerman
RV Service Consultant Isabel McGrath
Technician Certification Registrar
Mike Molino, CAE
RVDA Education Foundation President Ronnie Hepp, CAE
Vice President for Administration Phil Ingrassia, CAE
Vice President for Communications Karin Van Duyse
Chief, RV Learning Center Mary Anne Shreve Editor
Director Mick Ferkey Greeneway, Inc. Wisconsin Rapids, WI (715) 325-5170 [email protected] Director Eleonore Hamm RVDA of Canada Richmond, BC (604) 204-0559 [email protected] Director Andy Heck Alpin Haus Amsterdam, NY (518) 842-5900 [email protected] Director Jeff Hirsch Campers Inn of Kingston Kingston, NH (603) 642-5555 [email protected] Director Rick Horsey Parkview RV Center Smyrna, DE (302) 653-6619 [email protected] Director Newt Kindlund Kindlund Investments Winter Park, FL (407) 628-4211 [email protected] Director Matthew Miller Newmar Corporation Nappanee, IN (574) 773-2381 [email protected]
Chairman Jeff Pastore Hartville RV Center, Inc. Hartville, OH (330) 877-3500 [email protected] Vice Chairman Dan Pearson PleasureLand RV Center, Inc. St. Cloud, MN (320) 251-7588 [email protected] Secretary/Treasurer Bill Koster Protective St. Louis, MO (636) 536-5704 [email protected] President Mike Molino, CAE RVDA Fairfax, VA (703) 591-7130 [email protected] Director Bob Been Affinity RV Service Sales & Rentals Prescott, AZ (928) 445-7910 [email protected] Director Randy Biles Pikes Peak Traveland, Inc. Colorado Springs, CO (719) 596-2716 [email protected] Director Debbie Brunoforte Little Dealers, Little Prices Mesa, AZ (480) 834-9581 [email protected]
Page 3
RVDA EDUCATION FOUNDATION STAFF
Randy Biles, Pikes Peak Traveland, Inc. Tom Fribley, Fribley Technical Services, Inc.
Ellen Kietzmann, Blue Ox Gary Motley, Motley RV Repair
Steve Savage, Mobility RV Service
FROM THE EDITOR
It’s the time of year when things start
heating up—and breaking down. Warmer
weather means people are turning on their
air conditioners for the first time in months,
and some of them may be getting a rude
surprise when, for instance, a critter’s nest
prevents the unit from operating. Others
might be reckoning with storm damage to
their roof-top units this tornado-prone spring
and wondering whether repairs are even
possible.
With this edition of RV Technician, you’ll be
equipped to deal with just about any A/C job
that finds its way to your service bay. First
up is “Repairing Air Conditioners For Profit,”
by master certified technician Gary Motley.
This article deals with inspecting, cleaning,
repairing, and maintaining roof-top units.
Accompanying the story is the detailed
checklist of operations that Motley performs
as part of his comprehensive A/C service.
A companion piece, “Storm Repair Tips For
Air Conditioners,” by Tony Yerman,
describes how even units that appear ripe
for retirement may sometimes be repairable.
Yerman feels that too many shops are too
quick to replace, rather than fix, air
conditioners. But if you can save an RV
owner’s unit, you’ll not only demonstrate
your value as a crack technician, you’ll also
make a customer for life. And A/C repair
can be just as profitable for shops as selling
a new unit, Yerman says.
Thanks also go to Tony for his contribution
to this issue’s “Top This!” column. He and
his team were tasked with fixing the brand-
new but constantly overheating generator in
a TV station’s news truck--and fast. They
tried all of the usual things and got nowhere.
And then Tony noticed that something
literally wasn’t measuring up.
While we’re on the topic of “Top This,”
please send me your stories of unusual
repair experiences and how you solved
them. I know you’ve had at least one job in
your career that made you either laugh or
cry. What were the strangest symptoms you
ever faced, and what did it take to solve
them? E-mail your anecdotes to
Mary Anne Shreve Editor 3930 University Drive Fairfax, VA 22030 [email protected] (703) 591-7130 x117
Turn Up The Heat On Air Conditioner Repairs
April/May 2011
Page 4
RV Technician Advisory Board
Servicing rooftop air conditioners is one
way to increase average dollars per RO.
Rooftop units need to be maintained
properly, just like a home air conditioning
system. The major difference is that
homes generally have a split system, while
RV rooftop air conditioners are self-
contained like window units.
Manufacturers of rooftop air conditioners
warn against breaking into the system to
evacuate and recharge. If the system
needs recharging, it’s time for a new unit.
Dispose of defective units following local
and federal EPA regulations. This article
will deal with servicing functioning air
conditioners.
Like a good sales person, a good service
advisor should sell air conditioning service.
Service advisors do their customers a favor
by making them aware of the need for
periodic maintenance. After all, what
customer wants to be in the middle of
Florida in July when the air conditioner
conks out? Some ideas to help promote
this service:
* Place a sign at the service desk about the
importance of rooftop air conditioner
maintenance.
* Add the item to your menu.
* Include it in your service sales brochure.
* Display props such as clean and dirty
filters; a copy of the check sheet to show
the complexity and details of a proper
procedure; and before-and-after pictures of
intake and return air separation,
evaporator, and return air grill.
* Give customers copies of the completed
checklist at pickup and tell them the
documentation can help increase their RV’s
resale value.
This must be a team effort between service
advisor, techs, and parts department. The
parts department needs to have in stock
the gaskets, air filters and retainers, and
shrouds that might be needed. Refer to the
tool and suppy lists on page six for
additional materials.
Air Conditioner Repair
Repairing Air Conditioners For Profit
By Gary Motley, Master Certified Technician
Page 5
Supply List
* Coil cleaner ……………………………….To clean nicotine, grease, etc. from fins; read
directions—can damage surfaces
* Commercial grade cleaner
* Plastic sheet and tape…………………..To protect RV’s interior and controls
* Rags………………………………………...For cleaning
* Oil …………………………………………..Used on some models to oil the fan motor
* Rectorseal or equivalent ……………….To separate intake and exhaust
* Expandable foam ………………………...To separate intake and exhaust
* Foil tape……………………………………To separate intake and exhaust; used on evaporator
compartment
* Parts return bags ………………………..For returning old parts to customer
* Sealant……………………………………..Used around evaporator lines
* Oil can w/ light-weight oil
Tool List
* Large square polyethylene bucket
* Compressed air
* Air wand
* Vacuum cleaner
* Fin comb
* Two calibrated thermometers
* Humidistat and wall thermometer
* Common hand tools
* Ladder
* Utility brush assortment (chip brushes)
Page 6
Now use the checklist on page 10 to
perform the service according to the
following instructions. The instructions may
vary slightly based on your shop culture
and the actual type of air conditioner.
These instructions essentially follow the
checklist, which is designed to help the
tech perform the job quickly and efficiently.
Identification. Information on the model
and location of the air conditioner unit
should be collected and documented any
time service is performed on an RV. For
this type service it may not be necessary to
write down model and serial number.
Enter the RV and perform these preliminary
steps:
Remove interior plenum/grill and
inspect. The first step in any job is to
inspect the work area for damage or
anything improper. These could represent
up-sell opportunities for the service advisor.
The interior plenum needs to be removed
to access the controls and filters and to
work on the ducting.
Cover/protect interior of RV. Cleanliness
should be a top priority.
Hang or install interior catch bucket.
Hang it under the air conditioner to catch
fin cleaner and falling debris. Some fin
cleaners have a high acid content and can
cause damage.
Cover or protect PC boards/control.
Remove or cover the control box to protect
it from fin cleaner and falling debris. I once
had to pay for a replacement control board
because I forgot to do this.
On the roof, inspect and remove the
exterior shroud. This may be an up-sell
for the service advisor. Be careful not to
damage the shroud while removing it, and
store the mounting fasteners properly.
Take care not to lose or damage any
removed items that will be reinstalled.
Fin guard installed/ new-style shroud.
This is another possible up-sell for the
service advisor, since most shrouds without
fin guards are old enough to need
replacing.
Inspect, straighten, and clean
condenser fins. A quick visual inspection
should determine if the condenser needs
more than cleaning. Many experts advise
replacing the air conditioner when 70
percent of the fins are damaged. If there’s
major fin damage, the service advisor will
need to contact the customer and either
sell him a new air conditioner or increase
the fee for the service.
Use compressed air and the air wand to
carefully clean fins. Be careful when using
coil cleaner: I have seen it drop down the
side of an RV and cause damage. Use a
fin comb to straighten the fins. Inspect both
sides of the condenser and comb out as
necessary.
Access the evaporator fins: This requires
removing the cover over the evaporator fins
so they are totally exposed.
Inspect, straighten, and clean the
evaporator fins. Clean and straighten the
evaporator fins as described in the
condenser cleaning section. Take care to
keep the controls and inside of the RV as
clean as possible.
Page 7
Clean evaporator fin compartment. Use
a vacuum cleaner and utility brushes to
clean as much of the evaporator
compartment as can be reached from the
top.
Check condensate drains for clear/open.
When condensation doesn’t drain, it can
build up and run into the RV interior or
ceiling.
Check that evaporator lines are sealed
into compartment. The factory-installed
sealant where the refrigerant lines come
into the evaporator compartment
sometimes shrinks, allowing outside air into
the evaporator compartment. When this
happens, the evaporator can freeze up or
cause more condensation. It may be
necessary to add more sealant or adjust
the factory sealant.
Replace evaporator cover and seal
thoroughly. Check all joints so no outside
air can get into the evaporator
compartment. Use foil tape and sealant to
completely seal the evaporator
compartment. Little gaps can let outside
air into the compartment or cool air out.
Spend a couple of extra minutes checking
this thoroughly and repair as needed to
increase the efficiency.
Inspect base pan for cracks and
damage. This happens infrequently, but
check to make sure.
Oil the fan motor at oil ports.
Occasionally the oil ports on the fan motor
will be clearly visible. Put some light-
weight oil in them.
Reinstall exterior shroud and fin cover.
Give everything on the roof a final
inspection and install the shroud.
Inside the RV:
Remove interior coverings, protectants,
and catch bucket. Take care to keep
everything clean.
Torque mounting bolts. The gasket
should be at about half of the original one-
inch thickness. (This means the gasket
should be torqued to about ½ inch.) Some
air conditioners have a tab built onto the
base pan to indicate how tight to torque the
mounting bolts. There may be an
opportunity to sell a gasket and installation
if you feel a new one is needed.
Separate and seal intake/return air. This
is a crucial step. The intake and return air
often don’t get separated when air
conditioners are installed, creating major
inefficiency. Inspect this very carefully and
use expandable foam, foil tape, and rector
seal to separate them. With ducted
models, make sure the cold air is going into
the ducts, not the ceiling. Seal the ducting
off as necessary to insure the air is directed
properly. Inspect the base pan and inside
plate for holes that may allow cold air to go
into the ceiling or mix with the return. Wire
holes in this area can also allow cold air to
escape. Inspect direct discharge models
and correct fluttering ducts. This step may
take a few minutes.
Replace or clean intake filter(s). It’s a
judgment call whether to replace or clean
the filters. I’ve seen new filters included in
the price of an air conditioner service.
Page 8
If you clean them, do that job first so they’ll
be dry when you’re ready to reinstall them.
Clean interior ceiling and plenum.
Assemble and install interior plenum, grill,
controls. Put the interior pieces of the air
conditioner back where they belong. The
controls portion refers to direct discharge
models.
Clean work area and do a final visual
inspection.
Next comes taking temperature/amperage
readings.
Ambient temperature and relative
humidity: Attach the humidistat and
thermometer to the wall in the shop for
easy access and visibility.
Cool: intake/return Delta: With the fan
speed on high, use two calibrated
thermometers to determine the air
temperature going into the return and
coming out of the air conditioner at the
closest outlet. Delta is the difference
between the two. After 20 to 30 minutes,
there should be about a 20-degree
difference. High humidity and high ambient
temperatures can cause the Delta to be
less than 20 degrees. When the ambient
temperature gets below 75 degrees, the
compressor won’t work as efficiently.
Heat: intake/return Delta: Turn the heat
pump on and take readings in the same
way as described in the COOL section.
The heat pump won’t operate below 40 to
45 degrees ambient temperature.
Amp draws: Using an amp meter, record
the amp draws when the air conditioner is
in the high cool and high heat modes. Be
sure to turn off all other electrical draws in
the RV if taking the amp draw at the main
power cord. Determine the proper amp
draw for the air conditioner you’re testing.
This should be between 8 and 14 amps.
The voltage in your supply should be
nominally 115 volts. Low voltage will
increase the amps.
Technician notes: Make notes of
anything of concern or interest.
This is a very thorough rooftop air
conditioner service, with a suggested flat
rate of two to two-and-a-half hours, based
on the culture of the shop.
On the following page is the checklist I use
when performing this air conditioner
service.
Feel free to contact me if you have
questions or ideas. My email address is
Gary Motley is owner of Motley RV Repair
in Oklahoma City. He is a master certified
RV technician and a member of the RV
Technician advisory board. He can be
contacted at [email protected].
Page 9
A/C Service Checklist
Customer ______________________ Coach______________________________ Date_______ A/C brand_________________ Model____________________ Serial_____________________ Ducted__________Direct discharge____________ Location in RV_________________________
* Remove interior plenum/grill and inspect ______
* Cover and protect interior of RV as needed ______
* Hang or install interior catch bucket
* Cover and protect PC boards/control ______
* Inspect and remove exterior shroud ______
* Fin guard installed/ new-style shroud ______
* Inspect, straighten, clean condenser fins (advise if major) ______
* Access evaporator fins ______
* Inspect/ straighten/clean evaporator fins (as needed) ______
* Clean evaporator fin compartment as needed ______
* Check condensate drains for clear/open ______
* Check that evaporator lines are sealed into compartment ______
* Replace evaporator cover and seal thoroughly ______
* Inspect base pan for cracks/damage ______
* Oil fan motor at oil ports as needed ______
* Reinstall exterior shroud and fin cover ______
* Remove interior coverings/protectants/catch bucket ______
* Torque mounting bolts to ½ original thickness (use crush tabs) ____
* Separate/seal the intake/return air ______
* Replace/clean intake filter(s) qty ______ price ______ea______ ______
* Clean interior ceiling and plenum as needed ______
* Assemble and install interior plenum/grill/controls ______
* Clean work area and do final visual inspection ______
Temperature/amperage readings
Readings are taken on HIGH after approximately 20 minutes.
Ambient temperature _______ F Relative humidity _______%
A/C air temps
Cool Intake ______ F Return ______° F Delta______ F Amp draw______Amps
Heat Intake ______°F Return ______°F Delta______◦F Amp draw ______Amps
NOTE: Acceptable temperature differential in A/C mode is 16 to 20 degrees; ambient temp and relative humidity affect differential.
Technician notes: ______________________________________________________________________
Page 10
I get a lot of calls at this time of year from
customers wanting to know if their hail or
storm-damaged air conditioner can be
repaired. Many retail customers--including
insurers--are concerned that air conditioners
too often are replaced instead of repaired. I
have some suggestions to address that
concern and make a shop look like a real
value to a customer.
In most cases, a storm-damaged unit can
be repaired. I know that the initial reaction is
to simply replace it, since there’s profit in
selling a new A/C. But there’s also profit in
repair, and repairing things is what a shop is
supposed to do. The profit margin can be
just as good and even better for repairing as
opposed to replacing.
On the roof, look for obvious external
damage such as smashed shrouds (plastic
covers) or condensers. Shrouds are easy to
replace and available from air conditioner
manufacturers and even some aftermarket
suppliers. If a mounting bolt or screw
breaks, drill it out and replace it. It’s a good
idea to apply a little penetrating oil on
fasteners whenever you can before trying to
remove them.
After removing the shroud, inspect the
workings for nests--mud daubers, birds, and
even some rodents can get in and build
nests that prevent the fan from turning.
Sometimes they even use wiring or
insulation from the unit to build their nests.
Remove any debris and check that the fan
motor moves freely. Late model units no
longer have ports for oil or lubrication, so
any resistance from bearings may require a
motor replacement. Check the wiring next,
making sure connections are good and that
it hasn’t been chewed on or separated.
Take a look at the capacitors for leakage or
severe deterioration.
Condensers are a hot topic (no pun
intended). Hail wreaks havoc on them,
smashing the fins. But smashed fins don’t
mean the end of an air conditioner. Several
tool suppliers offer a fin straightening tool to
repair the damage. I’m sure some old timers
have just pulled a comb out of their pocket
and used it for the same thing. Does the
repair look perfect? Not always, but then,
I’ve seen a lot of brand-new A/C units with
damaged condenser fins right out of the
factory-packaged box. Occasionally the fins
get a little damage during installation, but
they can be straightened.
Fix damaged air conditioners and maintain
them for your customers and you’ll be
demonstrating real value that will keep them
coming back.
RVDA Service Consultant Tony Yerman is
an Ohio-based master certified technician,
repair specialist, and the author of the RV
Damage Repair Estimator. He can be
contacted at [email protected].
Storm Repair Tips
Storm Repair Tips For Air Conditioners
By Tony Yerman
Page 11
Flat towing is a quick and popular way to
take a car when RVing. Most RV owners
are so conscientious about maintaining
their units that they rarely exceed their oil
change schedule by more than a few miles.
Taking care of a tow bar is just as
important--and just as potentially costly if
ignored.
The first step is the initial setup. Proper
height alignment and connections are
crucial to the performance and life of a tow
bar and baseplate. The tow bar can’t be
more than four inches higher on the
motorhome side and never lower on the RV
than the towed vehicle. If an extension is
added for, say, a bike rack, it’s even more
important that the tow bar not be at a
severe angle.
It’s all geometry and physics--the farther
back you move the pivot point of the tow
bar from the rear axle of the coach, the
more vertical movement you get and the
more leverage is applied to the receiver
hitch, tow bar, and baseplate.
It’s important to run the safety and
electrical cables under the tow bar.
Crossing the safety cables underneath the
tow bar is the recommended method;
should the tow bar become disconnected,
the crossed cables will keep the vehicle
straight and catch the tow bar rather than
allowing it to drop and drag on the ground.
Inspect the pins attaching the tow bar to
the baseplate to make sure they’re in good
condition. Pull them out and feel the
surface to insure they’re not wearing.
Check the retainer pins holding the main
pin in place--make sure they still have a
good strong resistance when you snap
them in place to secure them. Don’t forget
to also check the 5/8” pin that holds the tow
bar to the motorhome receiver hitch.
Replacement parts are cheap, so replace
worn pins with genuine factory parts.
Cleanliness is another important part of
maintaining tow bars, which pick up a lot of
dirt and road grime that can cause
premature wear. If you use a lubricant such
as WD-40 on the outside of the tow bar,
you’ll pick up lots of road grime. Some
customers think their tow bar is too stiff for
them to use and spray down the joints and
legs with a lube or grease. In most cases,
doing this causes much more harm than
good. The lubricant leaves a residue that
acts like glue when driving down the road,
and you’ll pick up more grime than if the
Maintaining The Safety And Value Of Towing Equipment
By Ryan Thomas, Blue Ox
Towing Equipment
Page 12
tow bar had just been left dry. If the bar needs lubrication, it’s best to use dry silicone spray and
nothing petroleum-based. It’s also a good idea to wash the tow bar when washing the
motorhome.
Check to ensure collapsible tow bar legs latch properly and adjust them according to the
manufacturer instructions. The two biggest contributors to premature wear on tow bars are
loose bolts, which allow excessive movement between mating parts, and miss-adjusted leg
latches, which allow too much fore/aft movement while towing.
Some tow bars have a rubber boot that protects the inside legs from dirt and water. If a
tow bar is “sticky” or the legs don’t slide in and out easily, follow these steps: Remove the
small cable ties holding the rubber boots on the legs and slide the boots back. Wipe clean
each inside leg and apply a light coat of multipurpose grease to insure smooth operation.
Secure each boot back in place with an 8-inch nylon cable tie.
Tow bars with exposed legs require a closer watch, since dirt and grime can get into the
latches and actually cause them not to latch properly. Clean these legs regularly to
maintain proper function. Make these steps part of your regular maintenance schedule
and you’ll get the most use and life from your tow bar.
Ryan Thomas is a service technician at Blue Ox. He performs tow bar service and installations at the
company’s factory in Nebraska and at races and rallies nationwide. He also does onsite dealership
service and sales training. He can be reached at [email protected] and at 402.385.3051.
Page 13
Starting this year, the Environmental
Protection Agency (EPA) and the California
Air Resources Board (CARB) have issued
new regulations and requirements for
evaporative fuel systems on gasoline
engines. The regs cover Class 2 engines
larger than 225cc. As of January 1, 2012,
Class 1 engines smaller than 225cc will be
included.
The main purpose of the regulation is to
have any gasoline engine, installed in any
RV, equipped with the same type of
evaporative systems found in larger
automotive applications. All gasoline
engines pose a threat to the environment,
no matter what their size.
RV on-board generators are affected
How does the regulation affect RV dealers
and service centers? Though it covers all
gasoline engines, the concern in our
industry is mainly with the on-board
gasoline generator and the fuel
system that feeds it. Generator and
RV manufacturers are required to
comply by obtaining an Executive
Order/Evaporative Certificate,
supplied by CARB and EPA. This
means that new generators installed
in new units must comply via the
generator manufacturer and OEM. At
present, LP vapor and diesel generators
are not required to follow the regulation.
Most gasoline-powered motorized units
comply automatically, as the chassis fuel
system is already compliant. A compliant
generator must be installed. Diesel-
motorized units with gasoline generators
must have a generator and fuel system that
is compliant.
Fuel delivery systems must also comply
The big issue is towable units and, more
specifically, toy haulers or sport utility type
vehicles. Many of these trailers are outfitted
with an on-board generator as well as a
fuel station for other equipment, like ATVs.
The regulations cover the fuel station as
well.
The generator manufacturer and
the OEM must be certified to install
generators and fuel systems, but
how about RV dealers who install
generators that they purchase from
an aftermarket distributor? A dealer
or service center doesn’t need to
be certified but is responsible for
New EPA And CARB Rules For Gasoline Generator Installation
By Tony Yerman
Regulatory Update
Page 14
installing a certified system. Most generator
manufacturers do not make fuel tanks or
fuel delivery systems, and every
component of the generator and fuel
delivery system must be compliant with no
conflicts between systems or components.
If one part of the system is non-compliant,
the whole system is non-compliant.
Most new generators sold today are
compliant with EPA/CARB regs and any
additional equipment needed is readily
available through the supplier. Check your
aftermarket distributor catalog. You may
have to look a little harder to find fuel tank
manufacturers. Transfer Flow and ECI
Metal Fabricators are a couple that supply
compliant tanks.
If you don’t comply, you face fines of more
than $30,000 per installation.
For more information
Go to EPA’s site at www.epa.gov and look
for Code of Federal Regulations (CFR) 40,
Subchapter U, part 1060, Control of
Evaporative Emissions from New and In-
Use, Non-Road and Stationary Equipment.
For CARB regulations, go to
http://www.arb.ca.gov/msprog/offroad/sore/
sorectp/sorectp.htm. This link takes you
directly to the applicable regulations.
Don’t take chances. To be completely
certain of what you need to do, have your
attorney look into the matter.
RVDA Service Consultant Tony Yerman is
an Ohio-based master certified technician,
repair specialist, and the author of the RV
Damage Repair Estimator. He can be
contacted at [email protected].
Page 15
The brand new generator would
overheat and shut down after 15
minutes. But everything—electrical
connections, settings, voltage and
frequency outputs—checked out. Then
the tech noticed something odd about
the housing box…
I once got a call from a
local TV station
representative who
said that a new
generator installed in
one of the news vans kept
shutting down after running for
about fifteen minutes. The rep had
taken it back to the installing shop, which
claimed the problem had to be the way the
TV station was using the generator. I told
the rep to bring it to me.
The TV station folks brought the truck over
and were very concerned about how long it
would take to get it back. Apparently, the
installing dealer had kept the truck for quite
some time and claimed there was nothing
wrong. I told them I couldn’t say how long
until I knew what we were up against. I put a
“unit down, rush” on it and sent it back to my
service department.
Boxed in
At first look, everything seemed normal. The
generator was the kind that comes in its
own box and had been packed into a very
small compartment in the side of the van.
Our tech first checked the oil and all
electrical connections, incoming and
outgoing. We then got out the unit’s manual
and started the unit up to check settings and
measurements. The unit seemed to run
smoothly, and voltage and frequency
outputs were
normal. We applied
a load, which the
unit handled well,
and let it run for a bit,
since the complaint was
that the unit would work for
about 15 minutes and then shut
down.
Sure enough, after fifteen minutes it died. It
had overheated.
Sizing up the situation
The first thing I do in these cases is to
ensure all venting is correct and
unobstructed. It was then that I noticed
something peculiar--there was an outlet
vent, but it wasn’t very big. Referring to the
installation manual, I realized that not only
was the outlet too small, but the entire
housing box was smaller than the book
claimed it should be.
At this point, I had to call the TV station to
tell them what we found and what we
thought needed to be done. And it wasn’t
going to be a simple fix.
The van’s original generator was a different
brand with an entirely different style and set-
up configuration. The dealer who sold the
new installation told the TV station he was
doing them a big favor by installing this
TOP THIS!
How NOT To Install A Generator
By Tony Yerman
Page 16
more efficient, quiet, and compact unit. The
problem was, the new unit didn’t fit the
original unit’s compartment in the van.
Instead of resizing the compartment, the
shop resized the generator. This was not a
good idea. Changing the box configuration
and size altered the cooling system. It was
an air-cooled unit and relied on an adequate
air flow. Without proper cooling, the
generator would overheat and shut down.
Out of warranty
The first thing that had to be done was to
replace the generator box. The generator
manufacturer wouldn’t take the unit back,
nor would they warranty the unit because of
the improper installation. There was also a
question about the dealer’s generator dealer
status. It looked as though it would take a
court order to get any action from the selling
dealer. The TV station was losing money
without the unit and needed to remedy the
situation in the fastest and least expensive
way possible.
The original generator was no longer
available and any replacement unit would
require compartment modification. We
decided to rebuild the new generator and
modify the compartment. This wouldn’t be
simple, as there were other pieces of
equipment mounted in the vehicle that
would have to be relocated and remounted.
Taking a different route
The entire generator box was ordered and
shipped overnight. While waiting for parts,
work began on the truck and the
compartment. About twelve labor hours
later, the compartment and van were ready
for the new generator box. The generator
had been removed from the modified box
and now awaited its new housing.
Once the parts arrived, we went to work
rehousing the generator and installing it in
the van. The next problem was routing the
engine exhaust and creating a duct to route
the heat exhaust from the unit and around
the springs and jack under the van.
Ignorance can be expensive
The entire repair cost the TV station around
$3,500 and took about three days. This
would not have been necessary if the dealer
who sold and installed the generator had
read the installation guide and made
modifications to the van instead of the
generator. Get educated, or pay the price.
The original dealer eventually lost in court
and had to pay for repairs and to reinstate
warranty coverage.
RVDA Service Consultant Tony Yerman is
an Ohio-based master certified technician,
repair specialist, and the author of the RV
Damage Repair Estimator. He can be
contacted at [email protected].
Send us s stories of your strangest
or most challenging repairs for RV
Technician’s new column, “Top”
Send us stories of your strangest or most challenging
repairs for RV Technician’s new column, “Top This!”
We’d like to share your experiences with other
readers. E-mail the editor at [email protected].
Page 17
New RV Buffing Compound
When an RV's
wheels and chrome
shine, the entire rig
looks brand new.
Shurhold's Buff
Magic is formulated
with jeweler's rouge
to be a metal polish and a buffing and
polishing cream.
With each pass of a buffer or hand
polishing, the proprietary abrasives break
down smaller and smaller, creating a
compound that can work a finish from very
dull to ultra glossy. Additionally, the
elimination of switching products saves
users time and money.
Buff Magic is also an ideal metal cleaner
and polisher for steel, aluminum, brass,
bronze, copper, gold, and other precious
metals. It's formulated to be user-friendly,
whether buffing by machine or hand.
Shurhold is dedicated to helping owners
maintain their RV’s value. It manufactures
specialty care items and accessories to
clean, polish and detail.
Computer-controlled
Jumper Cables
Energy Safe Technologies, Inc. has expanded its line of computer-controlled PowerSafe™ jumper cable
systems to include a suite of 25-foot professional-grade cables that fit the connectors used on many tow and service trucks. The jumper cables are the world’s first to use a computerized control module that prevents surges, short circuits, and spark-induced explosions that can occur when a vehicle is jump-started. They increase/decrease current flowing through the cables during a jump-start, preventing surges that can cause extensive damage to on-board electronics. In addition, the built-in computer prevents power from flowing through the cables until they’ve been connected correctly. The cables can be connected backwards or the leads can touch each other or another metal object, and electricity will not flow until the error has been corrected. The computer module informs operators of the error.
Tongue Weight Capacity
Increased
Cequent Performance Products’ new Reese
brand receiver hitches, class III and above,
will carry an increased capability for tongue
weight ratings. The increased capacity will
also be extended to select existing receiver
hitches. The Reese improvements have
raised the capacity from 10 percent to 15
percent of GTW, a 50 percent improvement.
NEW PRODUCTS
Page 18
S
The RVDA Education Foundation proudly recognizes the following
CONTRIBUTORS: Additional/New Contributions Received
7/01/09-7/01/11
Ace Fogdall, Inc. Affinity RV Service Sales & Rentals
All Seasons (CA) Alpin Haus
Altmans Winnebago American RV Best Value RV
Bill Plemmons RV World Bill Thomas
Bill Thomas Camper Sales, Inc. Blue Ox
Byerly RV Center Camperland of Oklahoma, LLC
Campers Inn of Kingston Candys Campers
Capital R.V. Center, Inc. Carolina Coach & Camper Carpenter’s Campers, Inc.
Circle K RVs, Inc. Coach-Net
Crestview RV Center Curtis Trailers, Inc.
Diversified Insurance Management, Inc. Dixie RV Superstore Bill & Kristin Fenech
Ron & Lisa Fenech Foundation Floyd's Recreational Vehicles
Folsom Lake RV Center Greeneway, Inc. (Route 66 Dealer)
Hayes RV Center Hemlock Hill RV Sales, Inc.
Ronnie Hepp Hilltop Trailer Sales, Inc.
Holiday World of Houston Horsey Family Memorial Fund
J. D. Sanders, Inc. Jamatt RV Sales
Jayco, Inc. La Mesa RV Center, Inc.
Lloyd's I-10 RV Center, Inc. Manteca Trailer & Camper Maxxair Vent Corporation
MBA Insurance, Inc. McClain's RV Superstore
Craig Mellor Mike Molino
Momot Trailer Sales Rose Zella Morris Motley RV Repair
Myers RV Center, Inc. Newmar Corporation
Noble RV, Inc. Northern Wholesale Supply, Inc.
Open Range RV Company Pan Pacific RV Centers, Inc.
Paul Evert's RV Country, Inc. PleasureLand RV Center, Inc.
PPL MotorHomes Protective
RCD Sales Company, Ltd. Redex
Reines RV Center, Inc. Rich & Sons Camper Sales
Rivers Bus & RV Sales RV World Recreation Vehicle Center
RVDA of Canada RV's Northwest, Inc.
Sonny's RV Sales, Inc. Spader 20 Group #20
Stag Parkway Steinbring Motor Coach
Tacoma RV Center Tarpley RV
The Trail Center Tiffin Motor Homes, Inc.
U-Neek RV Center United RV
United States Warranty Corporation Wilkins R.V., Inc.
Winnebago Industries, Inc. The Kindlund Family Scholarship Endowment
Received
7/01/09-04/15/11
$5,200 $2,000
$49 $4,000
$10,000 $250
$1,000 $2,550
$500 $500
$1,870 $16,000
$500 $2,000
$50 $1,000
$100 $1,000
$500 $10,417
$1,000 $1,000 $2,200 $5,000
$10,000 $25,000
$250 $2,500
$13,300 $1,350 $2,000
$250 $41
$5,000 $13,500
$250 $500
$2,500 $10 $50
$500 $250
$1,100 $5,000
$100 $150 $250
$25 $1,600 $1,750 $5,000
$150 $250
$2,250 $500
$3,570 $5,350
$100 $33,817
$1,000 $3,000 $4,500 $2,000 $1,000
$500 Cdn $25,000
$50 $1,000 $1,700 $5,250
$250 $500 $250 $100
$2,500 $200
$1,000 $1,000 $4,200 $1,000
----
Total
Received
$36,600
$6,000 $37,049 $15,500 $50,500
$5,925 $1,000 $5,050
$500 $20,500 $12,750 $16,000
$3,350 $27,422
$1,050 $6,000
$100 $2,000 $5,500
$199,917 $1,500 $7,000
$10,000 $15,000 $50,000 $50,000
$250 $7,000
$13,300 $5,100 $6,000
$300 $1,540
$25,000 $66,000
$2,250 $500
$17,500 $3,510
$15,050 $4,000 $2,250
$12,100 $30,000
$100 $10,736
$750 $25
$7,940 $2,000
$115,000 $150 $750
$2,500 $36,500 $25,000 $75,350
$100 $87,845
$1,250 $3,000
$20,025 $2,000
$15,850 $1,800
Cdn $150,000 $9,050 $2,000 $1,700
$32,100 $250 $500
$4,500 $1,100
$16,000 $200
$1,000 $3,250
$12,100 $26,000
$270,000
Last Contribution
Received
11/1/2010
8/30/2010 7/10/2010 9/30/2010 1/19/2011 1/25/2011 12/3/2010
10/20/2010 10/26/2010 10/26/2010 4/22/2010
12/20/2010 7/2/2010
7/12/2010 8/18/2009 12/7/2010 3/31/2011 12/7/2010
10/21/2010 11/24/2009 12/17/2010 12/7/2010 5/19/2010 8/18/2010 7/29/2010 6/16/2010
10/19/2010 12/23/2009 12/3/2010 1/28/2011 9/16/2010
10/20/2010 6/23/2010 8/24/2010
10/19/2010 7/21/2009 12/3/2010 2/19/2010
12/30/2010 7/27/2009 6/21/2010 6/25/2010
10/19/2010 6/23/2010
10/25/2010 10/18/2010
7/1/2009 10/25/2010 12/7/2010
12/16/2010 12/8/2010
10/18/2010 7/7/2009 4/6/2011
10/21/2010 4/12/2011 2/10/2011 8/12/2010 12/7/2010 6/16/2010
12/29/2009 12/20/2009 11/5/2009 9/28/2010
12/10/2010 10/13/2009
7/6/2009 12/17/2009 3/30/2011
11/12/2010 10/14/2010
7/6/2010 9/9/2010
10/29/2010 3/4/2010
3/17/2010 9/9/2010
8/24/2010 12/03/2010
1/7/2011 ---
Page 19
RV Technician Certification Preparation CourseEvery RV Technician Can Have Access to IndividualSelf‐Study Training and Certification Preparation
Interactive-Multimedia, Online Format• Combines text, audio, graphics, and video, with mentor-led technician
community forum – all content is online (no extra books or handouts needed)Corresponds to RV Certification Test Sections• Propane; Electrical; Plumbing; Brakes, Suspension & Towing; Appliances;
Generators; Hydraulics; Exterior; Interior; Expandable Rooms; Miscellaneous (Welding Safety, Customer Care)
• Fulfills 40 hour RVDA RVIA RV Service Technician recertification requirement
Developed by RVIA Available through the RV Learning
Center
• Fulfills 40 hour RVDA-RVIA RV Service Technician recertification requirementPersonal Progress Tracking• Automatically tracks individual’s progress• Quizzes after each chapter and section with immediate feedback • 205 question assessment that is similar to the RV technician certification test
$249 per Technician*
Registration Information
Company:
Address: .
City/State/Zip: .
Phone: Fax: .
In order for the program to function properly, each technician MUST have their own personal e-mail address that only they have access to
per Technician*
*Quantity discounts available when registering four or more technicians at one time. E-mail [email protected] or call 703-591-7130 for details. Note: Registration fee subject to change have their own personal e mail address that only they have access to.
Sign up the following RV technicians from our dealership:
Name: .
E-mail: .
Name: .
E-mail: .
Important:• The RV Technician Certification Preparation course offers RV service technicians the means to prepare for certification through an online, self-study format. A computer with high-speed
without notice.
Name: .
E-mail: .
.Send progress reports to the following supervisor:
Name: Title: .
E-mail: .
p g pInternet is needed to access the course.
• Visit www.rvtechnician.com for information about the RVDA-RVIA RV Service Technician certification program. The certification testing fee is not included in the course registration fee.
• Registration gives the technician 365 days to complete the course by achieving 80% or higher on the final practice test The
All registrations must be pre-paid in U.S. funds.
□ Check Enclosed: Make Check Payable to: The RV Learning Center
□ Send Invoice (RVDA Members Only) □ VISA □ MC □ AMEX □ DISCOVER
C
Method of Payment
or higher on the final practice test. The technician should plan for certification testing within the enrollment period as course extensions are not available.
Cardholder’s Name: .Acct. Number: Exp.: .
Cardholder’s Signature: Security Code: .
Billing Address: .
Return completed form to: RVDA I 3930 University Drive I Fairfax, VA 22030 I Ph. (703) 591-7130 I Fax (703) 359-0152www.rvlearningcenter.com I [email protected]
FRVTA–RV Learning Center Partnership$995 per year for each dealership locationOver 40 sessions available, 24 hours aday, seven days a week with full accessto training through July 31, 2011!
The DLN offers your dealership:
• Training at your dealership
• Together as a group
• Without any travel time or expenses
• On a pace determined by your needs
• At times to suit your operation
• For one fixed price of $995 for the subscrip-tion term
Company Name:____________________________________________________________________________________________
Address: ____________________________________________ City:________________________ State: ____ Zip: __________
Phone:______________________________________________ Fax: __________________________________________________
Mentor Name: ________________________________________________________ Phone: ______________________________
E-mail (at dealership) : __________________________________________________ Fax: ________________________________
**High speed internet access required. RVIA Service Textbooks not included**_____ location(s) at $995 each = payment due: $__________________ (select payment method below)
PAYMENT METHOD (complete lower section & mail or fax to):
q PAY BY CHECK OR MONEY ORDER q PAY BY VISA, MASTERCARD Florida RV Trade Association, 10510 Gibsonton Drive, Riverview, FL 33578, (813) 741-0488, Fax: (813) 741-0688
Name on Credit Card: ______________________________________________________________________________________
Card Number: ________________________ Security Code: _________ Expires: ______________________________________
Card Billing Address: ________________________________ City:________________________ State: ____ Zip: __________
Card Holder Signature: ______________________________________________________________________________________
For more information, call (386) 754-4285 or go to https://www.fgc.edu/rv-institute.aspx
Online Training with FRVTA’s
DISTANCE LEARNING NETWORKThe DLN offers online training for:• RV Technicians – An excellent resource for
techs preparing for certification and techsseeking recertification continuing educa-
tion credits.
• Service Writers/Advisors –Useful for new staff and experi-enced personnel preparing for theRV Learning Center’s Service
Writer/Advisor certification.
• Greeters/Receptionists –Emphasizes customer interaction and service.
• Dealers/GMs – Features hot topics, includ-ing Lemon Laws, LP gas licensing issues, andRed Flags.
DEALERSHIP REGISTRATION
10th
Edition
Service Management Guide (Flat Rate Manual)
The expanded Service Management Guide offers over 100 pages of average work unit times for the most basic service functions performed by competent RV technicians. The 10
th Edition of the Service Management Guide offers extensive
updates and additions provided by dealers, service managers, and technicians.
It also offers all new Service Check Sheets that provide a valuable reference for service managers and technicians.
It is a great tool for the service department when working with extended service contracts.
The Service Management Guide is also available in CD-ROM.
Manual or CD-ROM: RVDA Members $164.95 Non-Members: $330.00
Manual and CD-ROM: RVDA Members $275.00 Non-Members: $550.00
Order Online at http://www.rvlearningcenter.com - prices are subject to change without notice
Order Form – 10th Edition Service Management Guide (Flat Rate Manual) Name:____________________________________________________________________________________________ Company Name:___________________________________________________________________________________ Address:_________________________________________________________________________________________ City:__________________________________________State:________Zip Code:______________________________ Phone:___________________________________Fax:______________________E-mail:________________________
___RVDA Member ___Non-RVDA Member Manual - # of Copies:___ CD-ROM - # of Copies:____ Method of payment (Please check one) ___Check enclosed (Made Payable to The RVDA Education Foundation) ___Send an invoice (members only) Credit Card: __Visa __Master Card __American Express Card Number:____________________________________________Expiration Date:___________________________ Name on Card:_____________________________________Signature:______________________________________
Billing Address:_________________________________________________________Billing Zip:_________________
RVDA, 3930 University Dr, Fairfax, VA 22030 (703) 591-7130, Fax (703) 359-0152, Email: [email protected]
The Service Management Guide is designed to provide reasonable guidance relative to the time required for competent technicians to complete assigned tasks. It is an important part of the service management system, but it is not intended to be the sole determinant of prices or rates charged in that sale of service.
Page 22
RV Learning Center Scholarship Program
Deadline: June 6, 2011. To be considered, all application materials must be received by the deadline. For moreinformation and to download additional applications, visit www.rvlearningcenter.org or e-mail [email protected].
Applicant’s Name: ________________________________________________________________________________________
Address: ____________________________________________________________________________________________________
Phone: ______________________________________________ E-mail: ______________________________________________
Sponsoring RV-related Company: ________________________________________________________________________
Address: ____________________________________________________________________________________________________
Phone: ______________________________________________ E-mail: ______________________________________________
High School:__________________________________________________ Year Graduated: __________ SAT/ACT Score: ____
Address: __________________________________________________________________ Phone: __________________________
College Attending in 2011-2012:__________________________________________________________________________
Address:__________________________________________________________________ Major: __________________________
Have You Been Accepted?: ______ If No, When Do You Expect to Be? ____________ College Credits Completed: ________
College GPA: ______ Estimated College Expenses (One Year): $ __________ % to Be Covered by Self/Family: _________%
Are You Employed? No l Yes l Employer: ________________________________________________________________
How Long/When?____________________________________________________________________________________________
By signing below, I indicate that I have read the fact sheet that accompanied this application and that I meet the eligibilitycriteria specified for scholarship applicants.
Signature: ________________________________________________________________________________________________
About This ScholarshipThe RV Learning Center’s ScholarshipProgram awards $2,500 scholarships todeserving college undergraduatestudents majoring in business, finance,economics, accounting, or other RVindustry-related subjects. A factor forawarding the scholarship may be anapplicant’s background of RV industryemployment or a desire to work in theRV business after completing post-secondary education. It is madepossible through the generosity of theNewt and Joanne Kindlund Family.
Eligibility RequirementsWe will award the scholarships to RV-related company employees or theirdependents based on a series of factors.Dealer principals and their dependentsare not eligible.
Requirements*• Must be a rising sophomore, junior, or senior college
undergraduate student.
• Must complete an essay on their goals and objectivesfor attending college.
• Must submit a completed Free Application forCollege Student Aid (FAFSA) form. The form is available at:www.fafsa.ed.gov/fotw1112/pdf/PdfFafsa11-12.pdf,or may be completed online at: www.fafsa.gov.
• Must demonstrate the ability and willingness to funda portion of their educational expenses on their own.
• Must be accepted into an accredited four-yearcollege or university as a condition of receiving thescholarship.
• Must have a 2.8 or better cumulative grade pointaverage, and a 1050 minimum SAT score (1575minimum on the 2400 point scale). A minimumACT composite score of 22 is also acceptable.
*All requirements must be met by the application deadline.
Enclose with Application:1. An official copy of your most
recent college transcript.
2. A copy of your SAT/ACT scores.
3. An essay of not more than 500words on “My Goals andObjectives in College.”
4. A list of extra curricular activities,honors, etc.
5. A copy of your FAFSA form(available at your school or atwww.fafsa.ed.gov).
6. Two photos (digital preferred) forpublicity (only used if candidatereceives scholarship).
FACT SHEET AND APPLICATION: 2011-2012 ACADEMIC YEAR
Submit application packet to: The RV Learning Center3930 University DriveFairfax, VA 22030 or fax to: (703) 359-0152, or by e-mail to [email protected]