Tech Talk Archives 3

[Neweller]

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263 2/26/2001 7:47:41 AM 2/26/2001 TechTalk Staff TechTalk@newellcoach.com Oil grades There is a lot of confusion about this subject. However, although many Detroit Diesel service techs are not aware of this exception to their general rules, the short answer is that multi-vis Delvac 1 oil performs very well in Detroit Diesel 92 series engines. If you are not comfortable using multi-vis oil, you should consider using Detroit's private label SAE40 synthetic, available through Detroit distributors.

[Neweller]

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264 2/27/2001 9:34:58 AM 2/27/2001 TechTalk Staff TechTalk@newellcoach.com Electric Heaters Yes, the Cadet heaters are the same as the Square D.

[Neweller]

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265 2/27/2001 4:13:41 PM 3/3/2001 Jack Krokstrom jkrok@hotmail.com Gas Furnaces When traveling down the road in my 1991 coach the burners seem to blow out and blows cold air.What can be done to prevent this happening.

[Neweller]

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266 3/2/2001 12:57:40 PM 3/3/2001 John Clark jvclark02@cs.com Amp hrs I don't claim to be an expert, but I have found that one to two amps per battery, per day is pretty much in the ball park. If more than that, you might check your battery "type" setting or check your batteries for outgassing. A weak or shorted battery cell, corroded connections, or even a dirty battery surface can run the numbers up rather quickly.

As to your the steer tire question, most (Bridgestone, Toyo etc) will have a a smooth very prominent rib 3/8 to 1/2 thick rib running around the outside of the tire. It's sole purpose is to slow or prevent the cupping that often occurs on front tires. The tread is also different and seems to create less road noise than the drive tires. It's probably just me, but I swear the ride is better also.

[Neweller]

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267 3/2/2001 1:12:03 PM 3/3/2001 John Clark jvclark02@cs.com vaccuum venturi assembly I replaced a friends Newell venturi assembly with a 12 volt vacuum pump. You can power it from the ignition key "on" circuit, or connect it to the heater/ac fan control, like I did, so the pump runs only when the heater or a/c is on.

[Neweller]

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268 3/3/2001 6:25:43 AM 3/3/2001 John Clark jvclark02@cs.com link2000 Hi Harold:
I tried to answer your first question not realizing you had two differing situations. The Link 2000 owners manual (1994-97) may answer your questions; page 16 and page 19-20.

If not, you can call Xantrex (they are a Canadian based conglomerate that bought out Heart Interface & Trace Engineering) at 800 446 6180. You may have to play a little phone tag, if you don't like to be put on hold, but they have been pretty good to me on their technical support. Good luck! John Clark

[Neweller]

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269 3/3/2001 8:08:04 AM 3/3/2001 TechTalk Staff TechTalk@newellcoach.com link2000 The buildup of "negative hours" on the Link was a pesky little anomaly to solve and took about a year before we uncovered the culprit. But the answer and solution turned out to be simple. In order for the Link to correctly register positive and negative current flow, ALL current must flow through the shunt located on the ground cable between the engine batteries and the frame mounted grounding stud. If you check the ground cable from your starter, you will probably find that it is connected directly to the grounding stud. This allows current to by-pass the shunt and not get "counted." Move the starter ground to the stud on the battery side of the shunt, zero out the Link, and your Link will read correctly. This situation has no effect on proper charging performance, but simply causes the Link to improperly score the game.

[Neweller]

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270 3/4/2001 11:52:24 PM 3/7/2001 Perry Burney easycarela@aol.com Proper Tires? I have a 1989 40ft. Newell w/tag. It has a new set of Michelin 11R 24.5 XZA-1 tires load range G. Is this a proper tire for this unit, and what are your recommended pressures for each axle?

[Neweller]

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271 3/6/2001 7:48:15 PM 3/7/2001 Dean 67gto@bright.net Waste tank I'm planning to build a new black/grey water tank for my '78 Newell. A friend told me that the original tanks that Newell made were of 1/8" mild steel. If I build a tank of mild steel I'm thinking of trying to coat the inside to resist corrosion. Does anybody know if Newell did anything on the original tanks or if I should coat this one. Anybody got any suggestions for what to coat it with? Thanks, Dean

[Neweller]

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272 3/7/2001 8:38:32 PM 3/7/2001 TechTalk Staff TechTalk@newellcoach.com Proper Tires? Your 1989 Newell was built to operate with 11R24.5 load range H tires, a tire model that Michelin does not offer. The problem is that load range G tires, like your Michelin's, have a maximum load capacity of only 6430 lb. @ 105 psi, while load range H tires have a capacity of 7030 lb. @ 120 psi. Your Newell probably has a front axle weight in excess of the total capacity of 12,860 lb., so load range G tires are not adequate. If in doubt, weigh the front axle of the coach, but we think you'll find that it is more than the 12,860 lb.limit of your tires.

[Neweller]

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273 3/7/2001 8:48:33 PM 3/7/2001 TechTalk Staff TechTalk@newellcoach.com Waste tank We suggest that you avoid a mild steel tank and have a new tank fabricated from polypropylene sheet material. Newell discontinued mild steel tanks and began using polypropylene in around 1980 to prevent corrosion failures in these tanks. Because of the labor involved, polypropylene tanks are expensive, but they have the potential of lasting a lifetime.

[Neweller]

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274 3/12/2001 9:21:49 AM 3/13/2001 Arthur Knapp agkcpa@hotmail.com Battery for Refrigerator On my 1983 Newell, the 12-volt power source for the refrigerator (a Dometic 3-way) is the coach start batteries. This setup has caused my start batteries to run down a few times while dry camped.

My question is, is this the best place for the refrigerator to get it's 12-volt power, or should I reroute the wiring to the house batteries? Currently, it is wired directly to the battery terminal (with a fuse in line). I would do the same wiring, just to the house batteries instead. Any suggestions are appreciated.

[Neweller]

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275 3/13/2001 10:00:06 PM 3/13/2001 TechTalk Staff TechTalk@newellcoach.com Battery for Refrigerator The Dometic AES (Automatic Energy Selection) refrigerator 12-volt mode is designed to operate from the engine, not the house 12-volt system. However, 12-volt mode should only function when the coach engine is operating and the alternator is generating dc power. There is a connection to the ignition switch that activates the 12-volt mode. If the refer operates on 12-volt power while parked with the ignition off, the automatic mode selection is not operating correctly. You can have this problem diagnosed and corrected, or you can simply turn off the 12-volt mode on the refer control panel, as the refrigerator should operate properly on LP mode while driving. By the way, the 120-volt mode can be activated by selecting automatic (AES) operation or turned off on the control panel as well. If 120-volt is selected, and is functioning properly, the refer should switch automatically to 120-volt mode when ac power is available through the shore cord or generator. In summary, the AES power selection priority is 1) operate on 120-volt power anytime ac power is available, 2) if ac power is not available, operate on 12-volt power if the engine is running, and 3) operate on LP if neither 120-volt power is available nor the engine is operating.

[Neweller]

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277 3/20/2001 7:44:09 AM 3/20/2001 Tom Patterson tom@tompatterson.com Window Channel Felt I have a 1966 Streamline, which was the forerunner of the Newell. Looking at pictures of a 1968 Newell, it appears that the sliding windows were still the same. The window channel felt on my sliding windows has deteriorated and needs to be replaced, but I am having difficulty in finding replacement material. Any suggestions ?
The material is one inch wide with a 3/8 inch fabric bottom, and felt sides. The channel itself is 7/16" wide, and 3/8" high with a 3/16" sliding glass window.

[Neweller]

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281 3/26/2001 9:14:50 AM 3/28/2001 John Clark jvclark02@cs.com Waste tank You might call Ardemco in Costa Mesa CA, 1 800 253 0115. They have hundreds of tank sizes.

[Neweller]

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282 3/26/2001 11:25:23 AM 3/28/2001 Gary Reddick greddick@earthlink.net Chrome Illusion Paint Repair I am having some spot repair paint work done on my coach graphics done locally. The graphics are painted with Chrome Illusion Paint. The paint repair will be done using DuPont Chroma Premier KK720FX Pure Fire Prism. My painter asks if a clear coat should be applied? Please advise... I intend to have 3M Scotchcal Paint protection Film (Permashield) applied
when the paint work is completed.

[Neweller]

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283 3/28/2001 5:04:48 PM 3/28/2001 TechTalk Staff TechTalk@newellcoach.com Chrome Illusion Paint Repair Chrome Illusion paint requires a clear coat. We recommend that you follow DuPont's specific recommendations as to the material and the application for the clear coat.

[Neweller]

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284 3/28/2001 6:55:43 PM 3/29/2001 Raul Cortez raulcortez@aol.com Waste Tank Reading.... I am currently parked and have my main manual dump valve in the closed position. I also have the air operated air valve in the open position. I understand that by doing this, I can bypass the holding tank with all my grey water. The only water that will stay in the holding tank will be the black water? My digital level reading seemed to be working just fine up in til the point that it gets to the 3/4 full. One day it reads 3/4 and then the next morning it reads 1/2 full? It has been fluctuating like this for the past couple of days. Is this normal? Or do I have a leak in the manual closed valve? Is there a overfill line that will let the black water "spill" over so that it doesn't get too full? Or do you think that I have a slow leak in my manual valve? I just want to know if this is normal and if not what can I do to fix it?

[Neweller]

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285 3/28/2001 7:04:00 PM 3/29/2001 Raul Cortez raulcortez@aol.com Thermostat problems.... If I remember correctly, I spoke with Tommy Key, one of the Newell service advisors, once about a problem that I have with my A/C thermostats? I remember that he said that they were recalled on my 1995 Coach #401.
I forgot to get them replaced back in November when we were at the shop getting some emergency work done. The problem that I am having is that they don't seem to turn the A/C off when they reach the desired temperature? The A/C runs continously, stopping only sometimes but not consistently. I don't know when I will be back in Miami OK? So my question is: can they be replaced by any qualified A/C technician? If so how do I go about getting the new thermostats? My Coach has three thermostats. My visit to the Newell factory was very memorable and very pleasant. I recommend everyone who has the time to visit the factory. You will feel very welcomed by everyone throughout the company. I was very impressed with the professionalism that everyone expressed. Thank You.

[Neweller]

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286 3/29/2001 9:06:03 AM 3/30/2001 otto burleson otto@spinn.net Thermostat problems.... AC compressors - delay as long as 4 minutes after fan comes on.
I know the furnances have a anticipator feature - is this also a feature on the ac? Same thermostats run both ac and furnances

[Neweller]

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287 3/30/2001 5:57:18 AM 3/30/2001 TechTalk Staff TechTalk@newellcoach.com Waste Tank Reading.... It is possible that the holding tank is just barely at the 3/4 mark, and as more is added to the tank, the indication will soon show a consistant 3/4. There is no "overfill line" and we doubt that your tank or valve is leaking without the presence of a strong odor. The situation should become more clear as you continue to use the coach and observe the results.

[Neweller]

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288 3/30/2001 5:28:03 PM 4/7/2001 Dan Niebojeski bojes@aol.com Cruise control. I would like to know if there is any adjustment to the cruise control shut-off when I step on the brake. I have to put alot of pressure on the brake pedal before the cruise disengages. I would like it to disengage with the first touch of my foot to the brake. If I can adjust it myself, tell me what and where. If not, I will be at the rally at Magic Casino in April. Maybe one of your techs can adjust it then. I was just in for service last week at the factory, and I must tell you that the coach runs like a dream. I can't wait to hit the road with it. Thanks to all the guys and ladies in the service dept. They are great!

[Neweller]

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289 4/1/2001 4:45:21 PM 4/7/2001 otto Burleson otto@spinn.net Exhaust Fan over Kitchen Stove Coach is 1988 - Exhaust Fan runs but there is not any suction going thru the filter above the burners.
Unable to locate exact location of fan. Does fan exhaust into basement? There is a grill opening above the burners
and small grill in bathroom on common wall of kitchen.
Fan noise seems to located in one of two insulated pipe or sealed duct over the hot water heater. The
pipes or ducts that exit through the floor of the water heater area - both peneatrations of the floor are sealed.
vin # of coach is: 1N9912X84J1011011

[Neweller]

290 4/3/2001 7:20:02 AM 4/7/2001 Tom Patterson tom@tompatterson.com Window Channel Felt I found what I need. For those who might have the same problem, the rubber channel with flocked lining for a Chrysler, Valiant, Dart 63-66 works.

[Neweller]

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291 4/7/2001 12:09:05 PM 4/7/2001 TechTalk Staff TechTalk@newellcoach.com Window Channel Felt Replacing the felt without breaking the glass is fairly difficult. Complicating this is if the window glass breaks during the process, replacement glass available today is about 1/16th inch thicker than original. The new glass doesn't want to slide easily to open. To check the availability of new felt from our parts department, call our toll free number, 1-888-363-9355.

[Neweller]

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292 4/7/2001 12:20:44 PM 4/11/2001 Raul Cortez raulcortez@aol.com Exhaust Fan over Kitchen Stove Hi, I had the same concern with my exhaust fans. I have one in the toilet room and in the kitchen/shower area. I noticed that they were not moving any air out? Well, I finally realized that in order for the fan to exhaust air, it had to have intake air. So as soon as I cracked open a window or sunroof vent, it exausted air quickly.

[Neweller]

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293 4/11/2001 3:25:55 PM 4/11/2001 otto Burleson otto@spinn.net Exhaust Fan over Kitchen Stove Exhaust Fan problem has been solved. Fan is located on floor of the coach under the stove. Both outlets are through the floor of the basement and are now open. All is well.

[Neweller]

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294 4/11/2001 3:39:31 PM 4/11/2001 TechTalk Staff TechTalk@newellcoach.com Cruise control. The switch operates on air pressure, is not adjustable, and is very difficult to access. However, if it is not performning correctly, our service department can replace the air activated switch with an electric switch.

[Neweller]

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296 4/12/2001 5:00:30 PM 4/13/2001 Charlie Kokesh charlie@kokesh.com GPS Systems - Factory Installed What GPS/Navigation system are you currently installing in new coaches?

Is this available as a retrofit at the factory for an existing coach?

What aftermarket alternatives do you recommend?

[Neweller]

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297 4/13/2001 10:41:37 AM 4/13/2001 Charlie Kokesh charlie@kokesh.com Compartment Door Seals Is there a factory recommendation for a spray or lube to apply to the rubber strips on the lower compartment door seals?

[Neweller]

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298 4/13/2001 10:42:30 AM 4/13/2001 Charlie Kokesh charlie@kokesh.com Anti-Spotting Solution Can you recommend an additive for the windshield washer solution to minimize spotting on the front windshields?

[Neweller]

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299 4/13/2001 10:53:49 AM 4/13/2001 Charlie Kokesh charlie@kokesh.com Thermostat problems.... We have spent the last 10 days in our coach with outside temperatures averaging between 30 and 35 in the evening.

When the front thermostat is set to 72, the actual inside temperature on the thermostat is 61.5. In order to get the inside temperature to 70, we have to set the thermostat to 84.

We have been on shore line at night with the AquaHot set to on. The AquaHot gauge by the sink indicates that the water temp is always between 200 and 202.

Does this indicate a problem with our heating system or just with the thermostat? If the latter, is this something that can be done by any RV service shop?

[Neweller]

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300 4/13/2001 4:33:16 PM 4/13/2001 TechTalk Staff TechTalk@newellcoach.com GPS Systems - Factory Installed We like the Alpine DVD based system. It is optional on new coaches and available for retrofit in the service department. Unlike the more common GPS systems using several individual regional CDs, this Alpine unit has all of the data on a single DVD. much more convenient for coaches that roam far and wide. We recommend two screens, one for the driver and one for the copilot. The copilot can use the second screen to input data while underway, like finding the next rest area up the road. Data entry is a bit too distracting for the driver to perform while the coach is moving.

[Neweller]

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301 4/16/2001 8:01:30 AM 4/17/2001 Bob Ferree bob_ferree@usa.net Rivet Heads I have a 1976 Newell and also am experiencing rivit problems. Cherry Cap ???? I bite what and where is it ?

thanks and I appreciate your board

bob

[Neweller]

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302 4/17/2001 2:41:15 PM 4/17/2001 TechTalk Staff TechTalk@newellcoach.com Anti-Spotting Solution We suggest you use any good grade of windshield washer solution available from an auto parts store.

[Neweller]

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303 4/17/2001 2:44:08 PM 4/17/2001 TechTalk Staff TechTalk@newellcoach.com Compartment Door Seals We suggest any good grade of rubber dressing. After the effects of time and weather, the seals tend to compress and lose their effectiveness. We recommend that the seals be replaced if the compartments begin to leak. The material is inexpensive and available through our parts department, 1-888-3NEWELL.

[Neweller]

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304 4/17/2001 3:34:30 PM 4/19/2001 doug nichols dnichols@firstlondon.com tag axle the tag axle on my 93 44.5 does not seem to move when i flip the switch. the tag axle tires seem to be compressed more than the drivers. my question is, should the tag air gauge in the rear engine compartment change it's reading when the tag switch is activated? mine doesn't change but the tires do not appear to be decompressing either. maybe it's broken. thanks

[Neweller]

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305 4/17/2001 3:37:12 PM 4/19/2001 doug nichols dnichols@firstlondon.com polishing aluminum wheels any bright ideas on polishing the alco wheels. i simichromed two this weekend and it was a lot of work. are there any shortcuts besides the usual hiring of someone else? thanks

[Neweller]

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306 4/18/2001 10:02:46 AM 4/19/2001 Charlie Kokesh charlie@kokesh.com GPS Systems - Factory Installed What is the retro-fit cost for the 2-screen version in a 1996 coach?

[Neweller]

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307 4/18/2001 9:20:26 PM 4/19/2001 Linda Schneider ltschneider@earthlink.net '79 Newell Windshield Replacement We're looking for availibility and cost to replace our left windshield. We're currently in Southern California and will be in Washington State later this summer. Would appreciate any information on locating a replacement. Thanks..Linda

[Neweller]

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308 4/19/2001 12:28:29 PM 4/19/2001 TechTalk Staff TechTalk@newellcoach.com '79 Newell Windshield Replacement We stock windshields for all Newell model years. Call Newell parts at 1-888-3NEWELL.

[Neweller]

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309 4/19/2001 12:32:28 PM 4/19/2001 TechTalk Staff TechTalk@newellcoach.com GPS Systems - Factory Installed The Alpine DVD GPS Navigation System with two screens (driver and co-pilot) is $3995 installed. It contains all of the data on a single disc, a great advantage over the typical 7 disc systems. It is designed so that the co-pilot can enter and update as the coach is going down the road (driver inputs are locked out by the system when the vehicle is in motion).

[Neweller]

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310 4/19/2001 12:42:48 PM 4/19/2001 TechTalk Staff TechTalk@newellcoach.com tag axle Confirm that the air pressure regulator for the tag axle is set at 25 PSI. The regulator is located on the forward, curb side wall of the engine compartment. Next, operate the three-position tag axle switch on the instrument panel. The center position is normal travel, pushing on the up side adds air to the tag, taking weight off of the drive axle, and pushing on the down side exhausts air from the tag axle to increase traction or shorten the turning radius. If operating correctly, you will hear air exhausting at the regulator when you push the switch on the down side. You may need to replace one or more of the valves. We recommend these valves be replaced every three years.

[Neweller]

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311 4/23/2001 2:00:09 PM 4/26/2001 Peter van Schoonhoven pvans@pacifier.com Used Newells with Slide Out I am embarking on a search for a slightly used Newell, and wonder at what year did the slide out room first become available?
Also, I plan to tow an 8000 lb trailer, what is the minimum engine size you recommend? I will be driving alot in the mountainous west, and detest climbing interstate grades at 45 mph! Your comments appreciated.

[Neweller]

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312 4/26/2001 8:04:14 AM 4/26/2001 TechTalk Staff TechTalk@newellcoach.com Used Newells with Slide Out The first Newells with slide-outs are 1997 models. With the exception of one Cummins powered coach and one Cat powered coach, all 1997s and newer are equipped with 500 hp Detroit Diesel Series 60 engines, plenty of power to pull an 8000 lb. trailer. The standard trailer hitch is rated at 5000 lb., but it is not difficult to upgrade the hitch. For information on specific preowned Newells available for sale, go to the preowned section of www.newell.com or call a Newell sales representative on our toll free number, 1-888-3NEWELL.

[Neweller]

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314 5/1/2001 5:53:27 PM 5/2/2001 bbooggss @ aol.com polishing aluminum wheels Buy the Bush cleaning kit.It is very easy to use.I did 6 wheels in 2 hours and they look like chrome. Look in your Family Motor Coach mag.in the back. Buy the entire kit.

[Neweller]

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315 5/3/2001 11:43:32 AM 5/5/2001 Bonnie Michael bonniem@prographicsllc.com Used Newells with Slide Out Small correction for the TechTalk Staff
You have referred this inquiry to www.newell.com.
The URL for Newell is www.newellcoach.com

[Neweller]

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320 5/8/2001 7:21:35 PM 5/10/2001 Dean Stoops 67gto@bright.net convertor/charger I am having trouble with my coach batts boiling dry. Is there a way to check the charger on my 1978 Newell? It is rated at 70 Amp. I am running 3 12V deep cycle batteries that are less than 1 yr old. It has boiled 1 or 2 cells dry on each batt. I'm thinking of updating the charger. I noticed that the positive lead coming out of the charger terminates at a block. There are 2 smaller wires coming out of that block. Is that component necessary? Should I just hook the positive lead from the new charger to that block just as the old one is?
Thanks
Dean

[Neweller]

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321 5/9/2001 6:16:49 AM 5/10/2001 ron livingston ronl@netropolis.net Pre-Owned Newell Coach I own a '68 Newell Coach which is for sale. I contacted Newell's CEO
with an e-mail and pics. I received a quick response and was advised
there was virtually no inquiries to the factory for a model this old. If any owners
know of another Newell forum please advise me at ronl@netropolis.net

[Neweller]

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322 5/10/2001 3:23:56 PM 5/10/2001 TechTalk Staff TechTalk@newellcoach.com convertor/charger If only one or two cells on each battery are boiling dry, it does not sound like a charger problem. A charger malfunction would tend to boil all of the cells in the battery bank. You may have some shorted cells. We suggest you have a technician load test the batteries at 200 to 300 amps. The block you mention is a breaker. The charger should always be wired through this breaker.

[Neweller]

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323 5/16/2001 12:45:33 PM 5/17/2001 Russ McDonough russmail@aol.com Pre-Owned Newell Coach Um, "Every message is reviewed, edited, hopefully accurately for grammer and spelling . . ." "Grammer" should be spelled "grammar." (I know, I obviously have too much time on my hands! Just giving you a good-natured ribbing, because of the irony of the context of the misspelling). I enjoy the tech forum - thanks.

[Neweller]

324 5/21/2001 10:51:46 AM 5/21/2001 John Clark jvclark02@cs.com convertor/charger I owned a 79 Newell for 10 years, and had some similiar experiences. If you have the old design converter/charger it will tend to overcharge. The newer float type chargers commonly found on new inverters from Xantrex, Trace, Statpower, Heart etc. have a 3 stage charger- Bulk, Accept, & Float. This has pretty much solved the problem of constantly adding water and bulging batteries. Another problem I had was mixing deep cycle batteries with start batteries and old batteries with new ones. If you have one battery that needs more voltage/amps than the others, all of them will suffer with the added charging and you will be forever adding water and replacing batteries. I agree with Newell. Load test the batteries (You can buy a tester from Northern Tools for $49)and eliminate the bad one. If you have the nonfloating type charger you might consider upgrading as you will get your money back in batteries saved. One other question, are the dry cells nearest the positive terminal, if not, the baterry is probably bad.

[Neweller]

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325 6/6/2001 8:24:05 PM 6/9/2001 Leo Everitt olympicspkc@earthlink.net SmarTire The May 2000 issue of FMCA magazine Newell article stated you were using SmarTire monitoring on the front tires and would be looking to all other tires as the technology became available. What is status of tire monitoring technology and use at present time ? Will you be required or meet the new Federal law passsed after the Firestone episode ?

[Neweller]

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326 6/9/2001 9:26:33 AM 6/9/2001 TechTalk Staff TechTalk@newellcoach.com SmarTire SmarTire has advised us that they will "soon" introduce an upgraded monitoring system with two improvements very relevant to our use. First, new pressure sensors will have a maximum pressure read-out to about 180 psi. Currently, the maximum is 127 psi, which will alert to any major loss of pressure, but will not show accurate front tire pressures, reading the maximum of 127 virtually all of the time. The second improvement promised is a longer range for the transmitters, so that we can monitor drive axle, tag axle, and tow vehicle tires from the driver's seat.

The only change to the Federal law we can recall being considered had something to do with corporate executives being held criminally responsible for safety issues under certain circumstances. We are not sure whether this was passed and signed into law, and if so, how it is going to be applied. In the case of Newell, we are fast to act when we encounter a recall situation, and the few recalls we have conducted have been handled quickly.

[Neweller]

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327 6/13/2001 7:34:39 AM 6/13/2001 Leo Everitt olympicspkc@earthlink.net SmarTire The law I was referring to is the one that mandates tire monitoring on "vehicles" by 2003. I wondered if it applies to motorhomes as well as automobiles.

[Neweller]

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328 6/18/2001 5:59:29 AM 6/18/2001 Walter Preston wlp55@attglobal.net R134 retro fit What recomondations can you make regarding changing my 87 from R12 to R134?

[Neweller]

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329 6/18/2001 6:02:16 AM 6/18/2001 Walter Preston wlp55@attglobal.net Surge on cruise My 87 has an occasional surging problem on cruise. I have cleaned the contacts in the black connectors. That was inconclusive. Where would you go next?

[Neweller]

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330 6/18/2001 12:15:05 PM 6/18/2001 Jack Frost, MD Forfam30@aol.com GPS Systems - Factory Installed Have used the Alpine DVD system in my Newell since Dec. 1999 with great satisfaction. It is not complex to a computer user but takes awhile to learn all the nuances. The two screen system is a must as driving a Newell and operating the GPS is akin to a blood alcohol of about the legal limit according to NHTSA. The voice instructions are invaluable while driving in cities where Interstate changes are frequent. Best accessory $$$ ever spent on a coach.

[Neweller]

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331 6/18/2001 2:38:33 PM 6/18/2001 S. Coryell zzcash@att.net 79 STeering box adjustment I have a 1979 with an excess play in the steering.. I see three adjustments on the steereing box. How do I do this safely? Thanks

[Neweller]

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332 6/19/2001 11:33:38 AM 6/19/2001 TechTalk Staff TechTalk@newellcoach.com R134 retro fit You might look at a product called Johnsens Freeze 12. Replaces R-12, no CFCs, and does not require an expensive conversion. We have used it in the Newell Service Department, so far with good results. You can contact the manufacturer at 800-527-0885.

[Neweller]

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333 6/21/2001 1:58:41 PM 7/2/2001 Carl Tesch ctesch@dailypost.com vaccuum venturi assembly Thanks for your answers. Here is a post script: After trying two new valves which acted the same as the original, i concluded that the valve was manufactured incorrectly. I carefully pried the conver from the valve, cut about 1/2 inch from the spring and reassembled the valve using RTV as sealant. The valve now works correctly. It exhausts air as it is building a vacuum in the reservoir. When the vacuum reaches about 18 in. Hg. the valve shuts off and no more air is exhausted. It will remain in the shut off positon until the heater controls are operated. Vacuum is used by the blend door motors and then the valve goes into action and generates vacuum.
If anyone is interested in this repair, I am willing to share my information.

[Neweller]

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334 7/1/2001 4:36:11 PM 7/2/2001 Linda Schneider ltschneider@earthlink.net '79 Newell Water Tank Leaking While traveling last month the stainless steel water tank in our '79 Newell began to leak. After removing the tank we found numerous pinhole leaks on the bottom of the tank along the weld lines for the interior baffles. We've soldered them as a temporary solution and are looking for recommendations on replacing that tank.

[Neweller]

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335 7/2/2001 10:01:53 AM 7/2/2001 TechTalk Staff TechTalk@newellcoach.com '79 Newell Water Tank Leaking You have a number of alternatives. A metal fab shop in your area can probably duplicate the stainless tank. Probably an expensive solution. You might also have a custom tank made out of heavy sheet plastic. We just did a web search and found this supplier: http://www.all-rite.com/customtanks.html You might also do a search to see if you can find a vendor who has a moulded plastic tank in a size that you can use. From time to time, we have seen ads for vendors offering a variety of tanks in magazines like Bus Conversion and FMCA.

[Neweller]

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336 7/2/2001 10:53:20 AM 7/14/2001 Kevin Temperton ktemperton@apollotx.com Cooling Can't keep rear of coach cool while driving. I run all three basement units. I have sealed windows, exhuast vents and entry door.Engine compartment insulation is still in good condition. Is there anything eles to try. Help!! Q
337 7/2/2001 11:14:51 AM 7/4/2001 Jim Cordner CRTJIMCORD@AOL.COM Proper Tires? Is the G load range tire adequate for the front tires on my 1977, 36ft. coach?

[Neweller]

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339 7/4/2001 10:35:39 AM 7/4/2001 TechTalk Staff TechTalk@newellcoach.com Proper Tires? We don't have enough information to give you a yes or no answer. However, to confirm that a particular tire size and load range is adequate, weigh each axle of the coach. Then compare the load of each tire (front axle weight / 2, rear axle / 4, and if so equipped, tag axle / 2) to the tire manufacturer's load rating. The maximum load @ maximum inflation psi is printed on the tire sidewall. Maximum loads at lower inflations are available from the tire manufacturer, often on the internet, or from tire dealers. Keep in mind that inflation is critical. Tire load capacity drops off quickly at lower inflation levels, as it is the air inside the tire that is supporting the vehicle weight. Lower inflation levels lead to excessive sidewall flex, high internal tire temperatures, and possible heat-related failure, most commonly, sudden tread separation at interstate speeds. Once the correct tire is installed, the three primary rules of tire safety are inflation, inflation, and inflation.

[Neweller]

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340 7/5/2001 6:59:04 PM 7/7/2001 Perry Burney paburney@bellsouth.net Alarm In the bedroom there is an alarm switch, also one outside next to the entry door, automotive type switch. My owners manual has no explaination for its operation, can you help?

[Neweller]

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341 7/6/2001 7:39:37 AM 7/7/2001 James Franze jfranze@att.net Power Tech - diesel gen set I have a 1978 Newell with a PowerTech generator which was retrofitted at some point. I am looking for a PowerTech generator service center in Texas. Houston is optimum location.

[Neweller]

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343 7/6/2001 6:20:52 PM 7/7/2001 Gene Morace morace2000@yahoo.com Surge on cruise Walter, I don't have a solution, but I have the same problem with the cruise on my 87 Wanderlodge. I will keep your email address so if I come across a solution, I'll send it to you. Is your cruise a "Bendix"?

[Neweller]

344 7/7/2001 5:18:11 PM 7/7/2001 TechTalk Staff TechTalk@newellcoach.com Power Tech - diesel gen set We suggest you contact PowerTech directly, 352-365-2777, for their recommendation for an authorized servicing dealer in the Houston area. You are correct in that the original equipment generator in a 1978 Newell was a Kohler. PowerTech was founded in 1989. The 20 KW PowerTech diesel generator is currently installed in all new production Newells. The standard version is mounted in the front as has been traditional for Newell generators, with the option of a new, exceptionally quiet side-mounted generator in a PowerTech hush box installed inside of a Newell hush box.

[Neweller]

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345 7/9/2001 12:04:32 PM 7/9/2001 Raul Cortez raulcortez@aol.com Alarm Hey Perry, Here's the way mine works. It works two different ways, one is when you are going to be away from the coach and the other is when you are going to stay in the coach. If you are going to be away, you must first "flip" one of the inside switches (TechTalk staff note: use only the switch in the galley to arm the alarm, as the bedroom switch is a "panic alarm switch" to be used to call for help or scare away potential intruders in an emergency), then you will go outside your coach and with a key, turn on the alarm. My key switch is mounted on the first bay door from the front of the coach on the passenger side. Once you have turned the key to the "on" position your coach alarm is on, and will sound the horns if someone opens the door while you're away. Once you return to the coach you will of course be required to turn the key switch back to the "off" position before openning your door. If you would like to use the alarm while you are in the coach, I believe that you will first have to switch one of the inside switches (Tech Talk staff: the galley switch) to the "off" position. Once you have done that, then you will go outside and turn the key switch to the "on" position. Then once you are inside with the door locked you are okay to switch the alarm switch to "on". You can do this at either the switch by your bed or the switch above the microwave in my coach (TechTalk staff: once again, use only the galley switch). I hope this helps. If someone knows of an easier way, or a different way, please let me know too. Raul

[Neweller]

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346 7/9/2001 3:39:36 PM 7/9/2001 TechTalk Staff techtalk@newellcoach.com 79 STeering box adjustment We recommend you have the steering box adjusted only by a qualified, experienced heavy duty mechanic. The 1979 Newell is equipped with a very common Ross steering gear. Any good truck service department can handle this job.

[Neweller]

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347 7/9/2001 3:44:51 PM 7/10/2001 TechTalk Staff techtalk@newellcoach.com Surge on cruise You will find a ring and sensor on the drive line. We have found that "surging" can typically be eliminated by adjusting the sensor as close as possible to the ring without touching.

[Neweller]

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348 7/10/2001 1:09:02 PM 7/10/2001 Raul Cortez raulcortez@aol.com Any other Newell Coaches in San Antonio? I was just wondering if there are any other Newell owners in the San Antonio, Texas area? Please email me, anyone with a Newell Coach nearby?

[Neweller]

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349 7/10/2001 3:26:29 PM 7/10/2001 TechTalk Staff techtalk@newellcoach.com Any other Newell Coaches in San Antonio? Want to know your fellow Newell owners? Anyone owning a Newell, regardless of age of coach or from whom purchased, is encouraged to join the Newells Chapter of FMCA. There is no cost. All members are furnished with a chapter directory of members, including a state by state list, that is updated periodically.In addition, you'll receive the Newells News newsletter several times a year, and if you wish, participate in Newell rallies. If you own a Newell and have not registered with the Newells Chapter, call Cindy Watson at 1-888-3NEWELL and she'll send you the application.

[Neweller]

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350 7/11/2001 12:59:48 PM 7/14/2001 Tuga Gaidry tuga@cajun.net California's length limit on motorcoaches I have a 45' Newell and I am planning a trip to San Fransico in late July. I am told that California does not allow a motorcoach over 40' to travel on state roads. I would appreciate any information regarding this matter.

[Neweller]

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351 7/13/2001 8:28:15 AM 7/14/2001 Leon Henson lebe007@swbell.net 1969Newell coach I purchased a 1972 Newell Coach two weeks ago.
One owner, 81,000 miles, however it has a 390 Ford Industrial. Already had one gen/set (Onan) 6.5 go bad.
Trying to decide to stay with Onan or a replacement. The interior and exterior in very nice condition. Having a lot of fun with it.

[Neweller]

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352 7/13/2001 6:57:06 PM 7/14/2001 Clarence Braun cjbraun@trans-video.net Waste Tank Reading.... I am not familiar with Raul Cortez's question on 3/28/01 on by-passing the holding tank with the gray water. Would you send me instructions on the procedure and how it works? Thanks

[Neweller]

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353 7/14/2001 5:24:16 AM 7/14/2001 David Carpus DSCarpus@aol.com Surge on cruise I had the same problem and I tracked it down to a bad wire on the sensor at the transmission. I replaced it with the closest thing I could find which was a Freightliner part, but it took several adjustments after driving to find the best position for smooth operation.

[Neweller]

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354 7/14/2001 10:16:59 AM 7/14/2001 TechTalk Staff techtalk@newellcoach.com Cooling This is a complex question! According to our records, your coach is a 1986 model. A diagnosis is difficult without more information. However, broadly speaking, you could be experiencing a higher heat load (from exterior temperature and engine heat radiation) than the system is capable of cooling adequately or at least to your satisfaction, or the system may not be operating up to specification due to some malfunction or need for periodic service. The first, easiest step is to clean any filters, typically located at the return air grills. A dirty filter can drastically decrease the performance of the a/c. Once the filters are clean, check the temperature of the air at the return air grill and then at the outlets. You should see a minimum of 15 degrees F. difference, more preferably 20 degrees plus. If you do not see this much differential, the system is not functioning properly and you should see an a/c serviceman. If you have 15-20 degrees differential, it would still be a good idea to have an a/c serviceman give your system a "tune-up." Once you have verified that the system is functioning to specification and it is still not offering enough cooling for the back of the coach, you'll need to make design changes to improve performance. The first thing we'd recommend would be to add two or three inches of insulation to the engine "dog house," the floor between the engine compartment below and the bedroom and cabinets above. Probably the easiest way to add insulation would be to lay precisely cut rigid foam on top of the dog house, although, depending on the location, you might need to carpet over it for appearance sake. If you want to finesse the issue and really kill the snake, you might consider installing a new roof air conditioner over the rear area. Unless you are quite skilled and versatile, this is not a do it yourself project, but a competent RV technician could cut the hole, run power, install the unit, and finish off the roof and ceiling. Replacement parts have become a challenge for these older a/c units. You can check on specific parts availability by calling Newell parts at 1-888-363-9355. Please have available as much information as possible for any parts request, including make and model of the central air units (there are data plates on the units with this information).

[Neweller]

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355 7/14/2001 11:31:14 AM 7/14/2001 TechTalk Staff techtalk@newellcoach.com California's length limit on motorcoaches For many years, California has had a regulation on their books (we would call it obsolete, but we don't really have a say) that limits vehicle length, with certain exceptions (not including private motor homes or private buses) to 40 feet. When the luxury coach market started selling over-40 foot coaches several years ago, virtually no one (manufacturers, dealers, California law enforcement, etc.) was aware of this regulation. Several other states had similar (obsolete?) regulations, but there was no enforcement. Most of the other states revised the problems regulations, and those that did not have not been issuing citations. However, a couple of years ago, the California bureaucracy, to their horror, became aware that there were all these "illegal" over 40 foot vehicles traveling the highways of their fair state, endangering their citizens and creating carnage on the highways. It was as if the Red Menace of the '50s had returned. Great confusion ensued. However, the good news is that it quickly dawned on the enforcement side in California that, as a practical matter, issuing citations is not an answer. California citizens would be unfairly penalized, and lucrative out-of-state tourism would be discouraged. The motor home industry has been working hard to get the remedial legislation, AB67, through the California Assembly and signed by the governor. Last year, for reasons still unclear, after the Assembly passed AB67 unanimously, the governor vetoed it. This year, AB67 has again been working its way though the legislative committee structure and it is hoped that it will come to a vote and pass within the next few weeks. There is guarded optimism that the governor will sign the bill this time. In the meantime, 45 foot coaches are driving around California with only the very occasional ticket issued. We know of two Newells stopped this past year. One did not receive a citation. The other owner was ticketed and fined, so he wrote to the judge, who graciously suspended the fine. Bottom line: go to California with your 45 Newell, be careful not to be pulled over for speeding or some other infraction, but if you are stopped, smile sweetly and say "yes, sir/ yes ma'am," and "no, sir / no ma'am" to the officer. And enjoy the Golden State while you are there.

[Neweller]

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356 7/15/2001 1:27:28 PM 7/15/2001 Bob Marlatt insidegolf@cablespeed.com Which Tires I have just purchased a 1973 Newell coach (31') that needs tires all around. Since I don't have the original manual that came with the rig, I can't determine the weight or distribution of weight for the coach. Can you recommend the correct tires I should purchase? Are the front tires different from the rear?

[Neweller]

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357 7/15/2001 2:31:06 PM 7/15/2001 TechTalk Staff techtalk@newellcoach.com Which Tires While the original tires installed on your 1973 Newell are probably shown on the build documents we have on file, the changes in tire technology and the possible changes to the motor home in almost 20 years make this information irrelevent. You wouldn't want the original make and model tires, probably a now obsolete tubed tire, even if they were still available. Our recommendation: Weigh each axle of the coach with full fuel and fresh water tanks. Then go down to your local Michelin truck tire dealer with one of your wheels (assuming they are all the same size, which almost certainly was the case when new) and find out what steel belted radial tires Michelin currently offers that will both 1) fit on your wheels and 2) give you a good weight capacity margin. While you are at it, you might need to invest in a new set of wheels to fit your existing hubs.

[Neweller]

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359 7/15/2001 2:35:18 PM 7/15/2001 Steven J Casey stevenjcasey@msn.com Conversion of Queen to Twins? My wife and I have found a 1987 40-foot Newell we like a whole lot. It has an island queen bed. After 30 years of sharing a king bed, and being given to ocassional fitful sleep, we are afraid a queen might mean one of us sleeps on the couch many nights. Is it possible to swap out the queen for twins, or does the configuration of the coach preclude that? If it's possible, is it a big deal? Thanks for any and all help.

[Neweller]

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360 7/15/2001 2:54:13 PM 7/15/2001 TechTalk Staff techtalk@newellcoach.com Conversion of Queen to Twins? To convert an island queen coach to twins requires any of the components installed under the bed, such as automotive heaters or propane furnaces, to be relocated, perhaps under the new twin beds. This usually requires an experienced RV technician. Building twin bed risers and obtaining new twin mattresses and bedspreads isn't very challenging. Another alternative that may be simpler: some of our owners have put two 30" wide twin mattresses side by side on the 60" queen bed riser. Use two bottom sheets, with queen sized top sheet, blankets, and bedspread. The tossing and turning of one spouse on their own mattress is much less noticeable to the other spouse with separate mattresses.

[Neweller]

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361 7/17/2001 8:32:17 PM 7/19/2001 Otto Burleson otto@spinn.net Basement Air Elec Loads Amp load is approx 17 amps each of the 3 units. Is this a normal amp load? Units are cooling the entire coach within an acceptable range.

[Neweller]

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362 7/18/2001 6:45:55 AM 7/19/2001 P. Craft-Willis pennyusers@aol.com What is a 1982 40' coach worth? We just purchased a 1983 Newell, excellent condition but as you say, interior needs updating. We got the dealer down to $55,000. and a new set of tires. We have 2 friends that also own Newell's,1975 and 1978 and from what we have been told, we got a really good deal. We have already had several interested buyers for a higher price although we do not want to sell. Also, at the time that we purchase this coach in March, the dealer had a nice looking 1980 model on the lot for $55,000. also. This is a dealer that Newell refers their customers to that are wanting to sell a used coach and has been selling used Newell's for several years. Guess we just got one good deal! Other info., mileage was low, no freezer, only 2 roof a/c's, 3 solar panels with inverter. Newell restored coach and installed new windows approx. 4 yrs. ago. No rear T.V., no front stereo. Excelllent awnings. Everything else sounds much the same as yours. 40 ft. Only downside found so far, engine smokes on startup and having problems find someone to run the rack on it. Best of luck. Also, if you find out anything regarding interior updates from Newell, e-mail me. Thanks.

P.S. We haven't pulled into an RV park yet that everyone doesn't come over to see the Newell and are amazed at the condition of it considering the age.

[Neweller]

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363 7/18/2001 7:19:38 AM 7/19/2001 P. Craft-Willis pennyusers@aol.com Sleeper Sofa Wanted How hard is it to find and order a sleeper sofa for a motor coach? Harder than you think! Hopefully I have been looking in all the wrong places. Help!
Info. needed on updating interior of a 1983 Newell. We recently purchased a Newell and although it came with nice leather recliners, it does not have a sofa. Locating another one has turned out to be a problem. I have looked in the camping catalogs and the only two cloth sofa's that they offered would not go with leather recliners. Local furniture outlets do not offer sleeper sofas that sleep "lengthwise." I have also contacted most of the smaller RV dealers in the SE Texas/SW Louisiana area, new or even used in excellent condition, they are of no help. Flexsteel has a web site and is a brand that makes sofas for coaches but you must order through their dealers such as CampingWorld, etc. Once again, the only RV and Camping catalogs that I have found to distribute their products do not offer a wide selection of sofa's. Any assistance with locating this product would be greatly appreciated. Vacation is coming up and we need the extra seating and sleeping space! Please help.

[Neweller]

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364 7/18/2001 12:44:37 PM 7/19/2001 Clyde Moore Clydemor@cwnet.com Length & Year of Coach I do know that my 1967, 25 foot Newell is quite rare. I would like to know how many other 25 footers are out there. Most of the early ones were 31 foot.

[Neweller]

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365 7/18/2001 12:54:05 PM 7/19/2001 Clyde Moore clydemor@cwnet.com 1969Newell coach I contacted Onan/Cummins and had the factory store in Sacramento, Ca rebuild my Onan. They did a good job, and the thing runs very well, that and I don't have to put up with the new printed circut boards, like some of the newer ones have in them.

[Neweller]

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366 7/19/2001 11:46:48 AM 7/20/2001 TechTalk Staff techtalk@newellcoach.com Sleeper Sofa Wanted Newell can order a new Villa sleeper sofa for you built to the dimensions you specify. Call Newell service toll free at 1-888-3NEWELL if you'd like more information.

[Neweller]

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367 7/20/2001 1:15:19 PM 7/20/2001 clyde Moore clydemor@cwnet.com BRAKES The Master cylinder, at least on my 67 Newell, is located on the inside of the firewall, above the brake pedal. It is mounted vertical, with the rod going into the top. It is from a early C500 or C600 Ford truck. I recently found a re-build kit from the local brake shop. Fluid is put into the top o the cylinder, under a rubber flap. Push the brake pedal about 1/2 down and add the fluid.

[Neweller]

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368 7/20/2001 6:16:44 PM 7/21/2001 Mac McCormick macbeth@netvista.net !965 StreamLine Travel Car I hear this group is where to come when you need some info. Well I am restoring a 1965 Streamline Travel Car for one more trip! I am really after a front winshield, however I do have a list of other items. I have heard travel cars where built using Ford parts. Does anyone have any idea which Ford truck winshield fits mine, better yet do you know of one for sale. If you have a lead sure would be nice to hear from you.

[Neweller]

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369 7/21/2001 6:08:51 AM 7/21/2001 TechTalk Staff techtalk@newellcoach.com !965 StreamLine Travel Car Although many Ford parts were used in early Newells, the windshields were not Ford. However, we try to stock windshields for all vintages of Newells, and may have the right pieces for your Streamline. Call Newell parts at 1-888-3NEWELL and ask for Gerald Williams. Gerald is a 30 year veteran of the company and knows which windshields fit which old models.

While not a well known piece of trivia, the Newell is the direct descendant of the Streamline Travel Car. Built in the mid-60s by the Streamline trailer firm in El Monte, California, the Travel Car was a top-of-the-market motor home using the Ford one ton truck chassis. The body was aluminum just like Streamline trailers, as are Newells to this day. Mr. L.K. Newell purchased a new Travel Car in 1966. This led to conversations with the owner of Streamline, and fairly quickly to Mr. Newell buying the motor home portion of Streamline, moving the operation to Miami, Oklahoma in early 1967--presto, the Newell motor home was born. Mr. Newell soon began assembling his own chassis, largely from Ford parts initially.

More information is available on the Newell web site, www.newellcoach.com , under the link "Our History."

[Neweller]

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370 7/22/2001 6:30:00 AM 7/23/2001 James Franze jfranze@att.net Speedo Operation on a 78 Speedo has stopped indicating speed and milage accumilation. Is it cable driven or electronic? I'm not having any luck finding the cable drive on the transmission. Could it be driven from the front tires?

[Neweller]

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371 7/22/2001 10:15:38 PM 7/23/2001 Gary W. Riley lifeoriley@arctic.net Anti-Spotting Solution Coat it with RainX from WalMart or similar store, two to three coats on and wipe off until it is not milky anymore looking at it from the inside. Then add separate RainX windshield washer fluid. Most of the time you will not use the windshield wipers or the fluid because the rain will sheet off by itself and the windshield wipers will only be needed at very slow speeds or a muddy road. They use it on small planes also. IT WORKS...and no I don't have a financial interest in RainX..I just know, I am an Alaskan and we get lots of rain...it's work to get it on the first time but it lasts a long time,the less you use your wipers the better. Enjoy!

[Neweller]

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372 7/23/2001 11:13:18 AM 7/23/2001 TechTalk Staff techtalk@newellcoach.com Speedo Operation on a 78 The speedometers for Newells in the 1970s and early 1980s were driven through a small reduction drive located on the forward engine bulkhead, driver's side. You will see a speedo cable input and an output. Over time, these gears will wear out and strip. The Newell Service Department rebuilds the reduction drive for a flat charge of $100, parts and labor. If you would like to discuss this with our service department, please call 1-888-3NEWELL.

[Neweller]

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373 7/23/2001 6:56:38 PM 7/24/2001 P.Craft-Willis pennyusers@aol.com Sleeper Sofa Wanted I recently found out that Bradd & Hall is also a Flexsteel furniture outlet for Motorhomes, Motorcoaches, Marine, etc. You can log on to their web site at www.Braddandhall.com to order their furniture catalog and fabric samples. Also, thanks for the info on Newell ordering a Villa sofa.

[Neweller]

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374 7/23/2001 9:11:22 PM 7/24/2001 Bob Scott thescotts@proaxis.com Proper Tires? I have been doing a little research on Michelin tires. My 86 has a new set of tires. However they are all G rated. Most dealers including Michelin's web site do not list an H tire in the 11R24.5. Michelin does make a 16 ply tire, however it listed for off road, and can be used on the steering axel. I've looked at this tire and it is not bad looking. I believe that their letter designation for this tire is XZE. Has anyone had any personel experience running this tire on the front steering axel?

[Neweller]

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375 7/24/2001 3:57:22 PM 7/24/2001 TechTalk Staff techtalk@newellcoach.com Proper Tires? From your description of this as an off road tire, it may have a reduced maximum speed rating, perhaps 55 mph. If so, we would not recommend using it for operation at normal interstate speeds. In addition, your 1986 may be light enough to run load range G tires. According to Michelin, this tire will carry a maximum front axle weight of 12,860 lb. @ 100 psi. If your front axle weight exceeds 12,860 lb., you will need a load range H tire. You may wish to consider the Bridgestone R293. The load range H Bridgestone R293 is rated to carry a front axle weight of up to 14,060 lb. @ 120 psi.

[Neweller]

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376 7/28/2001 3:12:42 PM 7/31/2001 gary marshall gmcolorcat@webtv.net 1968 30' Newell I am looking at a 68 Newell 30 feet long in good condition. Any one know what this might be worth. Thanks gary

[Neweller]

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378 7/30/2001 9:00:57 PM 7/31/2001 Elmer Hays vhays@cybertrails.com Check Engine Light We own a 1992 Newell Coach. The check engine light comes on when going up a steep hill. We have installed a new heat senser but still have the same problem. We have taken it to a garage to have the computer checked and they found no problem. They contacted Paul in the service department. He had no answer. We are now at a loss at what to do???? HELP

[Neweller]

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379 7/31/2001 12:34:18 PM 7/31/2001 gary marshall gmcolorcat@webtv.net 1968 Newell manual,tires etc The 68 Newell I am looking at needs new tires. It has 14x17.5 bias ply. Is this the size I shuould replace with, or should I go to a new wheel and tire. Also are there manuals available for this coach, as it needs some elec/mech work? It sits 2 inches lower on the driver's side. Does this indicate serious suspension problems or not so bad. thanks .....gary

[Neweller]

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380 7/31/2001 1:27:39 PM 7/31/2001 TechTalk Staff techtalk@newellcoach.com Check Engine Light From your brief description, it appears that the computer is sensing that the engine is overheating and activating the check engine light. This can be confirmed. Every time the check engine light comes on in a computer-controlled Detroit Diesel engine, the computer logs a fault code. The code can read by any qualified Detroit Diesel technician. We suggest you visit a Detroit Diesel service facility for further diagnosis and the appropriate repair. Some further general comments on rear engine Newells through 1994 equipped with rear radiators rather than the current side radiators. Rear radiators are very efficient, but they accumulate grease, dirt, and grime, and therefore require regular washing, preferably with a power washer. If fluid leaks exist, radiators will get dirty more quickly and cleaning must be accomplished at shorter intervals. Over time, the radiator fins also become damaged, so more serious radiator maintenance eventually becomes necessary.

[Neweller]

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381 8/1/2001 10:19:30 AM 8/1/2001 otto burleson otto@spinn.net Check Engine Light Ref check eng light - I have spent $1749 trying to turn off this light. Replaced Coolant temp sensor - coolant Low sensor - and sensor on crankshaft oil temp.
Light still comes and goes. Have learned to live it. Detroit Desiel in Dallas did the work - even replaced the Error Promt in the DDEC I. Good luck. QUESTIONS FROM TechTalk STAFF: DOES THE DDEC REGISTER ANY FAULT CODES WITH A CHECK ENGINE LIGHT WARNING? A CODE SHOULD REGISTER EVERY TIME THE LIGHT COMES ON.

[Neweller]

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383 8/1/2001 3:23:03 PM 8/3/2001 otto burleson otto@spinn.net Check Engine Light Light MUST STAY ON 8 SECONDS TO REG FAULT CODE. LIGHT BLING - SOMETIMES FOR 1 TO 5 SECONDS
OTHER TIMES WILL STAY ON FOR ??? TIME. Have not had Fault Codes analized in some time.Do not know if they are actually recording fault codes now.

[Neweller]

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384 8/3/2001 2:21:22 PM 8/5/2001 Jim Cordner CRTJIMCORD@AOL.COM Proper Tires? Thanks for the answer and advice. I weighed the axles and the front was @9,500 and rear was @17,500. The G load rating seems OK for me.

[Neweller]

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385 8/4/2001 7:04:15 PM 8/5/2001 Vick Nelson VICKNELSON@AOL.COM 1990 newell coach I AM CONSIDERING BUYING A 1990 NEWELL COACH. ARE THERE ANY PROBLEM AREAS I SHOULD LOOK FOR? ANY HELP OR GUIDANCE IS APPRECIATED.

[Neweller]

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386 8/5/2001 8:13:30 PM 8/14/2001 Elmer Hays vhays@cybertrails.com Check Engine Light Otto,
Thanks for your response to our questons. Would have answered sooner but we just received today (sunday).
Our coach runs about 180 degrees to 185 degrees on the flats. In the Mountains it may go up to 200 or 210 thats when the check engine light comes on. When we peak out the temp gauge will go back down to the 180 or 185 but the light will not go out. We stop the engine and check radiator and it isn't hot.
We had our raditor rodded, cleaned and power washed when we purchased Coach. I own a power washer and I clean raditor after each trip so I'm sure the raditor isn't dirty.
We had the heat sensor in the engine replaced also have had Will Napier @ Diesel Equip check the computer. He found that the code does register that engine is hot but it wasn't. He called and talked to Paul who said if we had the cruse control on it would register hot but we were not running the cruse control.
We hope to see you on some of our trips and hope that both of our check engine lights are out by then. If not I may take a hammer AND KNOCK IT OUT and save $1749 LOL
Sincerely
Elmer Hays Lakeside, Az
Questions from Teck Talk Staff:
Is there a way to change the computer so it doesn't register hot when it isn't? Shouldn't the light go off when the temp drops back down? At what temp. does the computer think the engine is hot? We have owned this coach since 1998 and this has only started to happen the past six months.

[Neweller]

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387 8/6/2001 8:22:53 PM 8/14/2001 BILL BURCH bmburch@swbell.net Check Engine Light I had a check engine light problem for quite sometime and we finally found the problem to be the engine compartment batteries. Since replacing the two batteries I've had no further problems. My light would come on for 10 to 20 seconds them go off for 10 to 15 minutes then come on again. The fellows at Newell found my problem.

[Neweller]

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388 8/14/2001 12:58:06 AM 8/14/2001 Ed eform100@aol.com California's length limit on motorcoaches Is the problem the drivers abilty to drive a 45ft Bus,? I have a class 2 license with a air break ticket plus a Medical in June 2001 will that qualify me to my 45ft Bus on California hwy's ?

[Neweller]

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389 8/14/2001 9:59:13 AM 8/14/2001 BILLY EDSON heas@mindspring.com MOTOR UPGRADE My 82 38ft has a 6V92TA, how much of a problem to upgrade to a 60 series, is there clearance, etc?

Thanks

[Neweller]

Q
390 8/16/2001 8:21:16 PM 8/19/2001 otto burleson otto@spinn.net Check Engine Light Re engine light - Part of the expense I had was 4 New Batteries and all new Cables - still didn't fix the problem.
My coach is 1988 - First model of DDEC brains - My light will go off with a change in RPM - either up or down.

[Neweller]

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391 8/18/2001 7:46:44 AM 8/19/2001 Ed eform100@aol.com California's length limit on motorcoaches Further to my question on the 8/14/2001 the license I hold is the one required to drive a Greyhound Bus as I did many years ago. The Medical is a driver Medical that is required by Law.

[Neweller]

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392 8/19/2001 11:55:29 AM 8/19/2001 TechTalk Staff techtalk@newellcoach.com MOTOR UPGRADE BIG problem. Mainly because the Series 60 is significantly longer than the 6V92 (or 8V92, for that matter), the Series 60 will not fit into the engine compartment of either of these 92 series engines without major modifications. Probably the main change required would be to remove the rear mounted radiator and install a side mounted unit. While not impossible, this would be an extensive job requiring a lot of careful advance engineering and planning; a long, expensive list of new parts; and a considerable but not accurately predictable amount of labor. The 6V92 is a good engine with plenty of power. If your powerplant is getting a little tired, we suggest you consider an overhaul or remanufactured 6V92 from a Detroit Diesel distributor.

[Neweller]

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394 8/23/2001 1:44:14 PM 8/23/2001 TechTalk Staff techtalk@newellcoach.com California's length limit on motorcoaches The class 2 license, air brake ticket, driver medical, etc., are not factors for the operation of a motor home, 45' or otherwise, in any state, including California, as far as we know.

[Neweller]

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395 8/23/2001 11:12:37 PM 8/24/2001 Bob Marlatt insidegolf@cablespeed.com a/c filter cleaning? Raul, what year is your coach?

[Neweller]

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396 8/23/2001 11:18:40 PM 8/24/2001 Bob Marlatt insidegolf@cablespeed.com 1968 Newell manual,tires etc I have just purchased a '73 coach that needed new tires. The tire dealer wouldn't put new tires on the old split-rims as they have proven to be dangerous. The dealer couldn't find any new rims and I had to buy used rimes (at $120 each). Both the rims and tires are slightly bigger than the original. If you do the same, don't forget that your speedometer will register slightly slower.

[Neweller]

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397 8/25/2001 10:22:35 AM 8/25/2001 Gary Reddick #547 greddick@orcasonline.com E-3 error code-Link 2000 Recently, while dry camping, I developed a flashing E-3 error code on the display panel of my link 2000 while the generator was recharging the house batteries thru the Heart 2500 Inverter/130 Amp Charger. The book describes this code as an "inverter or charger over temp shutdown". Outside air temperature was in the high 80's-low 90's.This condition repeated itself several times over the course of 4 days. The condition does not exist when charging by shore power or while driving.
Any ideas?

[Neweller]

Q
398 8/25/2001 3:40:44 PM 8/25/2001 TechTalk Staff techtalk@newellcoach.com E-3 error code-Link 2000 From your description, the E-3 "over-temp" fault code is probably accurate, with the Freedom 25 inverter/charger automatically protecting itself against damage from overheating. Finding the proper location for the inverter/charger involves a compromise. To provide cooling to minimize or preclude E-3 shutdown incidents during hot weather operation, the inverter/charger could be located in an air conditioned space within the interior of the coach. However, this is "prime real estate." In addition, the inverter/charger often makes some noise, buzzing as it charges or inverts. Newell has chosen to locate the inverter/charger in an exterior storage compartment, realizing that this may occasionally result in an overtemp shutdown. However, Newell believes that few owners would want this component installed inside the coach. The reason that you have experienced the problem while operating the generator but not on shore power is that the generator radiator exhausts hot air under the coach, warming the compartments from below. One issue to check: make sure that miscellaneous items are not packed too tightly around the inverter/charger. The unit needs to freely ventilate.

[Neweller]

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399 8/26/2001 12:42:21 AM 8/26/2001 Greg York gwyork@attglobal.net DDEC Upgrades? On 6V92TA/8V92TA engines found in the late 1980s
Newells, is it possible or desireable to upgrade
from DDEC to DDEC III or DDEC IV?

[Neweller]

Q
400 8/26/2001 8:19:51 AM 8/26/2001 TechTalk Staff techtalk@newellcoach.com DDEC Upgrades? It is our understanding that DDEC upgrades, for example from DDEC to DDEC II, III, or IV, are simply not practical to retrofit. The DDEC system is integrated into the engine and, to a lesser extent, the transmission. There is a wide variety of significant differences in a number of parts, as well as the wiring harness, between these differing versions of DDEC. You may wish to talk with your nearest Detroit Diesel distributor about your specific situation, as they have greater expertise on this issue than we. But we don't think you can get there from here. A final comment: modifications to DDEC though the years have for the most part been for the purpose of meeting increasingly stringent exhaust emisssion standards. We would not expect to see any performance enhancements as a result of incorporating a later version of DDEC.