FB Files Test Page

This is a test page for the organization of files from the Facebook View Navion Motorhomes Group.

Cabinet Latch Alternative – D Gerrelts
Cabinet latch alternative (3)

Emergency Jack Retraction PDF HWH Levelers – M Stern
Emergency Jack Retraction – HWH® Corporation

Overnight Parking –  J.J. Kosmider
ViewandNavionMemberOvernight Parking 11.15.2022 

Resetting Oil Service Light – J Utschig
Sprinter, Resetting Oil Service Light 

 

Electrical Management

One of the concerns expressed frequently is the occasional lack of plug in power.  Energy management is a good thing to master, regardless of where you camp.

There are two electrical systems in our RV’s.

The first system is a 12V Direct Current (DC) system that powers the interior lights, the refrigerator, the propane furnace, the entertainment center, the water pump, and the exhaust fans, and the energy for that is stored in the batteries. Stock batteries have the lowest energy storage capacity, and lithium batteries have the highest. The batteries are charged by the RV engine alternator, solar panels if installed, and the coach generator. Read more “Electrical Management”

One Place Reset

By Tom Land
May 2, 2021

Below is the procedure to reset the One Place controller in the View/Navion.

  • Hold down for 10 seconds: pump, tank, and battery buttons simultaneously.
  • The unit’s software version will display.
  • Press and release the ‘pump’ button.
  • Press and release the ‘battery’ button.

Complete – should now show correct tanks, etc.

Acceptable Sprinter Fuel

by Kent Gardam
April 30, 2022

All diesel fuel legally available for “on road” use has to be ULSD (Ultra Low Sulphur Diesel). That label should be on the pump.

You may occasionally encounter cheaper diesel fuel labeled “For Off Road Use Only”. That fuel does not have the highway taxes included and is illegal to use for “on road” driving. Don’t use it.

If you also see a “Diesel #2” label that’s great, use it.

If you see a “B5” label that is perfectly acceptable too.

If you see a “B20” label then Mercedes recommends that you minimize its use (an occasional tankful is fine) but if that’s all you have available as a regular diet then you need to do oil changes, oil filter changes, and fuel filter changes twice as often as your Sprinter manual recommends.

If you see an orange “Biomass” sticker on the pump DO NOT USE THAT FUEL. Mercedes does not approve use of that fuel at this time. Perhaps in the future they will but not now.

If you see a “Renewable Diesel” sticker on the pump DO NOT USE THAT FUEL. Mercedes does not approve use of that fuel at this time. Perhaps in the future they will but not now.

Reset Oil Service Light

By Jeff Utschig
March 24, 2022

Instructions for resetting the Oil Service Indicator on a 2017 Mercedes Benz Sprinter

  1. Turn the key to the ON position • DO NOT start the vehicle • Wait for computer to setup
  2. On the circular interface – left side of steering wheel Press the LEFT MENU button to display MILEAGE (if not already displayed)
  3. Push the ▲ UP button to display the SERVICE-WRENCH ICON
  4. Hold down the 0 button – left of the tachometer – until you hear a beep • This could take ~ 15 – 30 seconds
  5. Then press RIGHT MENU button – on the same circular interface • Until the screen below is displayed
  6. Press the ▲ UP arrow until you see the SERVICE-WRENCH ICON again
  7. Briefly press and release the O button again • COMPLETE SERVICE will be the highlighted choice • Leave that as the choice
  8. Press the ▲ UP arrow until you see the display CONFIRM COMPLETE SERVICE & RESET 3S
  9. Press and HOLD the O button for ~ 3 seconds to reset
  10. It will then display SERVICE CONFIRMED
  11. Checking the service interval display (via the UP arrow) • Should display 20,000 miles

A You Tube Video on Resetting the oil light (Click Here)

Truma Cleaning Mode Reset

By Tom McAllister
March 24, 2022

Please follow the instructions below to clear your Truma Hot Water Heater from Cleaning Mode.

Instructions

  • Power to the unit must be on from the main panel
  • The outside switch needs to be in the “ON” position
  • Turn rotary dial on inside switch to “ECO” or “Comfort” mode (these are the top 2 positions on the switch)
  • Open all the hot water faucets in the vehicle- let the water run until the yellow light stops flashing, this could take 15 minutes or so. (probably should be hooked to city water) (During this time you will hear the circulation pump turning off and on in approx. 30 second intervals this is normal. The burner will not ignite)
  • Once the inside switch stops flashing turn off water
  • Turn rotary dial to the “off” position
  • Turn the rocker switch on the AquaGo to the “off” position wait 30 seconds
  • Turn rocker switch on the AquaGo back on
  • Turn the rotary dial to the “ECO” or “Comfort” mode
  • The unit should work normally at this time.

Waking up the dial:
After completing this process, if you notice the dial light is not turning on, please slowly rotate the dial clockwise then counter clockwise until the dial lights up.

Truma Error Code List

Pre-Purchase RV Inspection Checklist

Updated by Rick Werth February 2022

  • Make sure all Mercedes services are current
  • Confirm that all Recall items have been completed for all components
  • Confirm all manuals and original manufacturer tools are included

EXTERIOR

  • Roof Seals – Inspect the condition of the roof ladder (if applicable) for stability and safety. Climb on the roof and closely inspect seams, gaskets, and any other place where the roof material is cut or drilled. Check closely around air conditioner, vents, antenna, sewer vents, solar panels, end-caps and seams on the condition of the sealants. No bubbles, nails or protruding screws! Check for rust spots near cut-away roof joint.
  • Sidewalls & End Caps: Inspect the aging and general overall condition of the front and rear caps. Inspect for any damage, discoloration and delamination of the side walls and end cap components. Check condition of all sealants used on seams.
    Windows – Check closely around each window to make sure it has been properly sealed. A narrow gap between trim ring & frame is OK, but it should be nearly even all the way around. Look for any water penetration outside and inside.
  • Cab & Entry Doors – Check the gasket for proper adhesion and coverage. Check from inside that it is flush against the door jamb. Check keys, lock & unlock. Check that screen door opens smoothly alone, locks to main door easily and does not have gaps to let mosquitoes in. Look for any water penetration outside inside.
  • Basement Compartments – Open and close each door, checking for alignment and gasketing. Lock & unlock. All hinges should be tight and secure, latches should hold the door tightly closed and be easy to open. Look for any signs of moisture that might indicate water leakage. Check for corrosion or rust on exterior of compartments.
  • Utility Compartment – Where are the low point drains for the fresh water tank and water heater? Condition and operational?
  • Propane –  Visually inspect all hoses and pressure regulators for damage and age deterioration. Confirm that a leak test has been performed on tank, regulator and the complete system. Check the propane tank for excessive rust or corrosion, any damage.
  • House Batteries – Make sure the battery compartment is ventilated unless Lithium batteries are installed. Determine the age and condition of the batteries. Verify that battery cables are in good condition, and all connections are secure and free from corrosion.
  • Power & Electrical – Inspect the condition of the power cord and its connection ends. Remove the cover to the electrical box where the generator cable plugs in for correct wire nuts and lack of heat damage. Check for proper operation of Automatic Transfer Switch (ATS) if equipped. Remove cover panel of the 120-volt circuit breaker box to visually inspect the condition of the wiring, circuit breakers and grounding connections. Note any heat discoloration to the wiring and connections. Check condition of built in surge connector if equipped. Check to make sure that the chassis batteries are being charged when the chassis engine is on.
  • Paint & Siding – Sight down the sides for bumps, depressions or delamination. Check the paint finish. Check for surface smoothness (no indentations!), color variations in gel coat and paint and any place where paint coverage is marginal or paint bubbles.
  • Tires and Wheels – Inspect tires (incl. spare) and wheels for condition and any damage. Check tire pressure. Check the tire manufacturer date to determine age. Check tire valves. If equipped, check the Tire Pressure Management System (TPMS – Aftermarket)
  • Step – Inspect and test operation of automatic step.
  • Generator – Determine total operating hours. Check oil level. Determine last full service. Inspect hoses. Operate generator under a load to verify operation (air conditioner will create the correct amount of load), listening for any unusual sounds or vibration, letting the generator run 10 minutes. Test the voltage output and frequency (60 cycles). The electrical status panel should show the status of the generator and the presence of AC voltage.

SLIDE-OUT(s)

Exterior:

  • Check seals, retraction process and operation of slide-topper.
  • Operate slide(s) to confirm smooth operation.
  • Inspect slide roof and slide awning condition.
  • Check for proper routing of wires and cables under slide.

Interior:

  • Operate slide(s) to confirm smooth operation.
  • Check for any leaks water leak damage around slide
  • Check for light shining through or airflow with slide in or out.
  • Check Emergency Brake interlock.
  • Evaluate the attached wiring and utility harness that feed underneath the slideout room. Confirm that no screws or bolts are cutting into the flooring during operation.

AWNING

  • Operate for smooth operation.
  • Inspect awning frames attachment points to wall and latching mechanisms.
  • Inspect the condition of fabric material of the awnings.

CHASSIS

  • Block tires. Crawl underneath to inspect for damage, excessive rust, brake lines, wiring, shock absorber attachments, and in general every place that a wire or pipe could rub against something that will cause a problem later.
  • Check for any fluid leakage.
  • Inspect exhaust pipe.
  • Inspect the frame, axles, springs, rims and other components for rust, oil stains and visible damage
  • Inspect the operating levels of all fluids: brake / hydraulic, transmission, fuel, oil, coolant.
  • Inspect engine drive belts.
  • Inspect steering for bent or damaged components or hydraulic leaks.
  • Test all lights and turn signals.

SOLAR COLLECTION SYSTEM

  • Inspect condition of all components of the system, including panels on the roof.
  • Inspect the solar power panel to determine status and condition of charging.
  • Determine type and age of solar batteries.

ENGINE

  • Verify oil level and condition on the dipstick
  • Note any engine issues or noises while running
  • Inspect for noticeable oil or exhaust leaks
  • Note the oil pressure reading on the dash gauges
  • Inspect radiator, coolant reservoir, and hoses
  • Check transmission fluid level. Look and smell fluid for any signs of overheating or contamination.

LEVELING SYSTEM

  • Verify the system operates properly by extending and retracting leveling system.
  • Note visual indications of hydraulic leaks or mechanic issues.

HITCH & SYSTEM

  • Inspect hitch for condition, welds, nuts/bolts are all secure.
  • Inspect and test 7-pin connector tow receptacle.

HOUSE SYSTEMS & INTERIOR

Test House Systems while plugged into shore power, on generator and on house batteries.

  • Power – Note the location of all AC and DC panels, fuses and breakers. Make sure the loads are labeled. Check all 110V outlets w/ tester for wiring, voltage and GFI. Check all 12V outlets for wiring.
  • Inverter – Make sure the inverter works and test outlets that are inverter powered.
  • Water Pump & City Water System – Water pump should pump for several seconds. Run water in the kitchen and bathroom sink and check that the pump will come back on. Listen to pump for any unusual noises. Turn off the pump, connect to city water supply.  Look for leaks at the inlet, under sinks and check the operation of all faucets / toilet and under RV.
  • Water Heater – Visually inspect burner assembly and gas exhaust system for blockages and insect infestation. Fill tank with water (if necessary) and verify operation on all heat sources – LP gas and 120-volt AC as equipped. Test water heater on propane first. A few seconds after you turn it on, you should hear the click of the igniter and the small pop when the burner lights. The red light should stay on until that process happens. Understand the operation of the bypass valve for winterizing. Determine if drain plug has been installed in water heater tank and working. If applicable, inspect bug cover screen (screen is highly recommended) on exterior of vent. Instant hot water systems operate differently, read the manual for operation testing.
  • Furnace – Turn the furnace on and set temp at least 10 degrees higher than ambient. In ~ 10 sec the furnace fan should come on. You should hear the click of the igniter and the sound of the burner. Hot air at about 110 degrees should be coming out of all vents. During testing check for smell of material getting too hot, or exhaust coming into the RV. Monitor for unusual noise or vibration of blower motor. Visually inspect air intake and exhaust assemblies for blockages and insect infestation. If applicable, inspect for bug cover screens on exterior of vents (screens highly recommended).
  • Refrigerator – Operate on all power sources – 120-volt AC, LP gas to ensure it is effectively cooling. Check condition of door frame, door gaskets, shelving, crisper drawers, door shelves and interior light. Ensure hot air is effectively vented.
  • TV, Entertainment, Antenna & Input Switching – Turn the TV(s) on. Review and understand the switching system that allows the selection of viewing channels on the TV. Test over-air channel reception for local stations. Rotate the antenna to maximize the quality of the picture. Understand the video selection switcher. Test radio, DVD, satellite, etc. systems as installed. Verify all remotes are present and operational.
  • Air Conditioner – Check air filters. Test system, after a couple of minutes, cool air, 20 degrees cooler than ambient, should be coming out of all registers. Listen for any unusual noises.
  • Microwave/Convection – Verify the rack and turn tables are installed and condition. Put a cup of cold water in the microwave and set the timer for 3 minutes. Make sure there are no unusual sounds coming from the system and water is hot.
  • Propane Stove – Turn on all burners to verify they work and there is also propane flow to operate the refrigerator and water heater. Operate and verify condition of the exhaust function and fan speeds. Inspect the filter and lighting.
  • Induction Stove – Using the appropriate cookware, check to see if the stove works.
  • Ceiling Mounted Fans & Ceiling Exhaust Vents – Inspect the condition of the blades and motor. Operate and verify condition of the blade direction and fan speeds.
  • Windows & Hatch – Open and close windows and hatch and operate the locks. Make sure emergency window operates smoothly. Ensure locks work effectively.
  • Floor Coverings – Inspect all corners and sides of carpet floor coverings to ensure that they are properly fastened.
  • Interior Conditions & Appearance – Inspect all ceilings, walls, interior doors and flooring for signs of water intrusion, surface damage and/or staining. Operate all windows and doors noting any deficiencies or missing components. Evaluate the window shades condition and functionality. Operate each blind and check for alignment. Look at valances and trim to be sure they are secured and matched. Check out the pull drapes.
  • Lighting – Operate all interior and exterior lighting, both on 12-volt and 120 volts.
  • Counter Tops – Inspect counter tops for alignment and fastening. Trim pieces should be tight. Inspect caulking quality everywhere. Check the installation of sinks and faucets.
  • Cabinets & Closet – Inspect and evaluate all cabinet doors, drawers and pull-out operation. Ensure secure locking. Inspect all areas of the kitchen, living room, bathroom, bedroom and storage area as for scratches, delamination or damage.
  • Furniture – Inspect the condition of the dinette table/booth, chairs, recliners and sofa (open & close). Note furniture fabric tears, delamination, discoloration and signs of excessive wear. Inspect mattresses for condition, damage or staining. Check for passenger seatbelt location and safety.
  • Shower – Inspect panels, curtains, etc. for effectiveness. Evaluate the seals around the frame work and doors for water leaks. Inspect for any stains or mold and mineral build up. Evaluate for any bad smells. Ensure shower head, hose, and controls work properly and are in good condition.
  • Toilet – Inspect that it is secured to the floor. Evaluate for any bad smells. Check the spray attachment for leaks. Inspect for any stains or mold or leaks. Evaluate the bowl seal that it holds water. Flush several times.

FRESH WATER SYSTEM

  • Verify the fresh water connections for the city water hookup are operational.
  • Test and verify proper filling of the fresh water tank.
  • Verify the onboard fresh water tank and pump system will operate and maintain pressure
  • Operationally test all fresh water fixtures inside and outside of the RV.
  • Inspect the water filtration system (if installed) for leaks and filter placement.
  • Determine the last time the system was sanitized.

WASTE WATER SYSTEMS (Gray and Black Water)

  • Operationally test and inspect both waste (gray and black) plumbing systems for leaks under the sinks, shower, around the toilet and discharge lines
  • Check the rubber connectors for the dump plumbing.
  • Identify the type drain valve controls
  • Verify the drain valves for both systems will maintain water in their tanks
  • Operate both drain valves and test for ease of operation
  • Verify the drain cap is in place and will hold waste water

LIFE SAFETY ITEMS

  • Test the Ground Fault Circuit Interrupter (GFCI) circuits receptacles they work.
  • Test all wall receptacles for correct polarity and ground fault.
  • Test the exterior skin for hot skin that would cause electrical shock.
  • Verify all safety emergency exit windows are operational.
  • Verify fire extinguisher is secure, up to date, in bracket and is fully charged.
  • Smoke/Fire Detector – Test and verify operation of units. Test backup battery condition.
  • Carbon Monoxide Detector – Test and verify operation of unit and note expiration date.
  • LP Gas Detector – Verify gas detection and audio alarm and note expiration date.
  • Verify the rubber grommet is properly sealed around LP gas line of water heater.

TEST DRIVE:

Perform the road test on a variety of road surface conditions, hills and at various speeds.

  • Do a walk around inspection of the RV to ensure all windows are closed, compartments are secured, awning is securely stowed, all running lights, headlamps are working. Check the interior to make sure all drawers are closed and latched, all compartments are secure and there are no loose objects laying in the coach. Secure all unsecured moveable objects. Make sure tables and counters are clear.
  • Operate the windshield washer and wiper, including delay.
  • Validate turn signals are functioning correctly.
  • Validate all exterior lights are functioning correctly.
  • Adjust the rear-view mirrors. Turn the ignition on, but don’t start the engine yet, so that you can see all the status and warning lights that might illuminate when you are driving.
  • Wait until `Wait to Start’ status light goes out. Engine should start easily within 2 seconds. Oil pressure should be present within 1 second (maximum 3 seconds) of starting. If no oil pressure, immediately shut engine down > we are done!
  • No warning lights should be illuminated on the dash at this time.
  • Turn on and adjust the rear-view camera monitor. Understand how to adjust it for day / night operation.
    Instrumentation should show normal reading throughout the test, be sure to check the gauges often.
  • Start with city-street driving, with little or no traffic. Perform several turns, watching the mirrors closely to get a feel for where the coach is relative to the road.
  • Once comfortable with low-speed maneuvering, head for the freeway. Leave yourself lots of room, because you don’t know how this coach accelerates! As you enter the on-ramp, floor the accelerator and you should get steady acceleration. Listen for any sounds that are not normal, like whines or grinds from under the coach, wind noise from the front door or slide out, flapping awnings, engine and transmission.
  • Bring the speed up to merge safely into traffic and go the speed limit. Observe gauges for normal range of operation. Observe the steering effort necessary to keep the coach going straight. If it takes too much steering then the wheel alignment is probably not correct.
  • Go at least two exits before turning off the freeway. Leave the rear-view monitor operating. Set and check Cruise Control
  • Brake Test: Do this test with space in front of the coach and on a flat surface. With the engine operating, apply the emergency brake, put gear selector in `Drive’ and apply a little pressure on the accelerator. The coach should not move. Release the emergency brake, drive forward at 10 mph and press the service brakes hard. It should come to a complete stop immediately, without screeching or pulling from one side to the other.
  • Turn on dash entertainment/GPS/Sirius XM etc. system and check all operations.
  • Turn on the dash A/C and let it run. After cooling is checked, turn dash heater on. Can do this on our test drive after the engine warms up.

 

Resetting Oil Service Indicator

Resetting Oil Service Indicator
2017 Mercedes Benz Sprinter

By Jeff Utschig
November 21, 2021

  1. Turn the key to the ON position
    • DO NOT start the vehicle
    • Wait for computer to setup
  2. On the circular interface – left side of steering wheel
    Press the LEFT MENU button to display MILEAGE (if not already displayed)
  3. Push the ▲ UP button to display the SERVICE-WRENCH ICON
  4. Hold down the 0 button – left of the tachometer – until you hear a beep
    • This could take ~ 15 – 30 seconds
  5. Then press RIGHT MENU button – on the same circular interface
    • Until the screen below is displayed

  6. Press the ▲ UP arrow until you see the SERVICE-WRENCH ICON again
  7. Briefly press and release the O button again
    • COMPLETE SERVICE will be the highlighted choice
    • Leave that as the choice
  8. Press the ▲ UP arrow until you see the display CONFIRM COMPLETE SERVICE & RESET 3S
  9. Press and HOLD the O button for ~ 3 seconds to reset
  10. It will then display SERVICE CONFIRMED
  11. Checking the service interval display (via the UP arrow)
    • Should display 20,000 miles

2008 to 2010 View Navion’s

December 19, 2021
By Bob Kelly

Introduction

The 2008- 2010 Winnebago View/Navions are built on the NCV3 Mercedes-Benz Chassis. Mercedes-Benz acquired the Chrysler Corporation in 1998 and later divested them in 2007. As a result, the Sprinter chassis was sold by the Dodge division of Chrysler. The chassis was manufactured in Europe as an incomplete chassis, and shipped to the United States, where Winnebago remanufactured it into a motor home.

The vehicle should be registered as a Winnebago, and the year of manufacture should be the year Winnebago completed the motorhome, not the year the incomplete chassis was manufactured in Europe. Due to the economy between 2008 and 2010, there isn’t always a one year separation between manufacture of the incomplete chassis and the manufacture date of the Winnebago motorhome. All Winnebago View/Navions between 2008 and 2010 were produced on a Dodge branded chassis. None of the vehicles require the use of DEF (Diesel Exhaust Fluid) to reduce emissions.

Among owners of the 08 -10’s there is the opinion that they are some of the best Sprinter chassis motorhomes produced. However, as with any machine there are several mechanical issues that are problematic.

Problems

Y Cable

The Y cable is a cable that connects the Starter, Alternator and Battery. It’s called a Y cable because of it’ shape. Due to faulty manufacture, the cable gets hot, occasionally the wire in the cable melts and the chassis battery is no longer charged. This fault often presents itself as a faulty alternator. The key to a successful diagnosis is to measure the voltage of the alternator at the alternator, and then measure the voltage at both the battery and the starter motor. If there is any difference in the voltages between the three locations, the cable is bad.

With the Y Cable, it’s not a case of if the part will go bad; it’s a case of when. Fortunately, there is no reports of a replacement cable failing.

Turbo Hose

There have been several iterations of the Turbo hose, to eliminate the problem of the hose rupturing. The intercooler (Lower) hose has been redesigned so as to eliminate the problem. If you can locate the hole, a temporary fix can be made to assist in making the vehicle operational.

Boost Solenoid

The Boost solenoid, the relay that combines the chassis battery and the coach batteries, to allow both to charged by the alternator. This is another case of when, and not if, the part will fail. When the relay fails, the coach batteries will not charged by the alternator. This is occasionally difficult to diagnose if the motorhome is always plugged into line voltage, the generator is used extensively, or the motorhome is equipped with a solar charging system.

The original relay, a Trombetta, can be identified by the single small gauge electrical post on the front of the relay. The replacement, a Cole Hersee 24213, has two small gauge posts on the body of the relay. The case of the Trombetta’s was used as a ground, and the single small gauge post was used to activate the relay.  The Cole Hersee 24213’s case is not used as a ground, and has two small gauge posts, and a ground wire must be connected to one post for activation. It does not matter which post is used for a ground.

Cabover Bunk

The Cabover bunk is affixed to the RV with two hinges and two gas struts. The hinges are actually hooks that clip over a rod and bracket fixture in the front of the Cabover. The gas struts hold the bed in place by pulling the bed to the rear, and keeping the bed hinge engaged to the rod and bracket fixture.

The original Cabover bunk mattress hinges were not designed properly. The old hinges do not have a welded gusset. The old style hinges are stamped and folded without the weld. As a result, metal fatigue causes the hinge to break and the bunk to come loose from the rod and bracket fixture. If one end of the bunk protrudes more than the other, or the bunk appears crooked, it is likely that the hinge is broken. The redesigned hinges have welds.

Additionally, the gas struts have enough holding power to keep the bunk in a raised position under all circumstances. The bunk need not be affixed to any of the clips in the roof. If the bunk slowly comes down, or comes down after a bump, the struts need to be replaced.

Microwave mounts

The microwave sits on a tray over the stove and is affixed to the RV by two vertical pieces of metal. Metal fatigue causes those vertical pieces, the mount, to fracture, and as a result the microwave is only attached by the bracket on one side. The tray and the trim assists in keeping the microwave from leaping from the cabinet, but the microwave should not be loose at all.

The repair has been made by purchasing nailing plats at a hardware store, and reattaching. Winnebago will also sell you the two mounting brackets.

Solar & Add On’s

It is easy to upgrade the 08 – 10 V/N’s so that they have more of the creature comforts that come standard in later models. It is east to add solar panels to the roof, and run the solar charging wired down the rooftop refrigerator vent. There are a number of articles on the View Navion Motorhomes Facebook Support site at http://www.viewnavionmotorhomes.com  that deal with solar charging systems, materials, and electrical consumption.

Systems

Slide Mechanism

The slide(s) on 08 -10’s are generally a single drive motor that engages a shaft with two drive gears. The motor has a lock that allows the motor to be disengaged from the drive shaft. The fit of the gears on the drive shaft to the track are loose enough, that the assembly requires no lubrication. To move the slide, the parking brake must be on, and it is recommended that the engine be running to supply sufficient energy to the slide motor. Additionally, there is a safety lock, that must be set to on. The safety lock was discontinued in later models.

If the slide cannot be retracted or extended, it is possible to extend or retract the slide by disengaging the slide drive motor, and using a crescent wrench to extend/retract the slide. The drive shaft is a square shaft.

Propane Appliances

It is highly recommended that the coach be fitted with screens over the propane furnace vents to reduce the chance insects will build a home in the orifice or flue. Occasionally either the propane furnace, refrigerator or propane water heater may not light. After checking to make sure that propane is available, the burner should be examined to ensure that nothing is shorting out the igniter, and that there are no cobwebs in the flue. Blowing out the flue with compressed air once a year, or as required is recommended.

Repair, Maintenance & Upgrade

The vehicle is out of warranty both with Winnebago and Dodge. It is not a Mercedes Benz product, although MB will gleefully provide service at great cost. After Mercedes Benz divested Chrysler, most/all of the Mercedes trained techs left Dodge and went to Mercedes Benz or an independent shop. If there were techs left behind at Dodge, it is likely that Mercedes Benz did not want them. Keep that in mind.

Additionally, any service provided by Mercedes Benz is warrantied in a different fashion than other MB products. Sedans and SUV’s have a 2 year, unlimited mile warranty on any work completed. Sprinters fall into the truck warranty of MB and are warrantied for three years or 36,000 miles whichever comes first.

Sprinters have been used in delivery fleets for years, so an alternate repair location would be a good truck repair company. Ask a Fed-Ex driver where they brought their Sprinter for service. A business that provides alignment services for 24’ box delivery trucks is an excellent place to have the vehicle aligned. When you align the RV, make sure that camber bolts have been installed. MB does not provide an incomplete chassis with camber bolts. Additionally the alignment location is an excellent source for recommendations on where to have the vehicle serviced.

Would you still bring your 13 year old Toyota to the dealer for routine service work?

Television

The RV came equipped with a 12V flat panel television. There has been a significant change in televisions in the last 12 to 14 years. Over the air television broadcast still exists, however streaming, in place of cable, is gaining ground. Replacement of the TV with a smart TV is far easier than it seems. 12V televisions are available for anywhere from $275 to $600. An Insignia 1080p 120V television is available for about $160. The original TV came with a VESA mounting panel on the rear, so it’s a simple case of attaching a new TV to the old mounting plate.

The old 12V power cable can be used to attach a small 120V inverter (new TV’s draw an amp or less) that will turn on and off with the old TV power switch under the entertainment radio/DVD/CD device. The connections to the entertainment system are identical (an adapter may have to be used for audio).

To use the antenna, the booster should be on. It’s difficult to see, but there is a small black on black button on the faceplate that has the green LED on signal. A newer King Jack or Wineguard HDTV antenna is suggested as a replacement over the batwing TV antenna.

Towing and being Towed

Winnebago installed frame rail extensions to the chassis. The towing capacity of the coach is 3,500 pounds and the hitch weight is 350 pounds. Please refer to the GV weight when towing a vehicle.

If the RV is to be towed, it should not be placed on a flatbed, as the height of the RV and the distance off the ground combines to make the arrangement an oversized load.  The RV should be towed ONLY from the front, and only after the drive shaft has been disconnected. Towing from the rear has the potential of bending the frame rail extensions and bending/delaminating the coach body.

Capacities and Tankage

Fluid Change Description Part # Specification
Power Steering Fluid PRN Mobil ATF+4
Mopar
05013457AA 236.3
Rear Axle 10Y – 180K BP Energear Hyep DC 80W-90
Mobil Delvac Synthetic Gear Oil 75W-90
Mopar
04874469 235.20
Motor Oil 1Y – 10K There are many compatible oils. Check MB’s fact sheet (use the 229.52 oil)
NB* Torque the oil filter cap to 30Nm, 22 Ft#, and make sure the O ring is properly placed.
  229.51
229.52
Coolant 15Y – 180K; Thereafter
5Y – 90K
Zerex G05 – Valvoline
Zerex G48 – Valvoline
Mopar
05066386AA 325.0
Brake Fluid 2Y Intac B026E
Mopar
MS-9971
04549625AC 331.0
Transmission Fluid 60K Shell ATF 3403
Shell ATF 3403
Mopar
05127382AB 326.10
236.12
Fuel PRN Ultra-low-sulfur diesel (ULSD)

Do not add anything to the fuel, unless the vehicle will be operated at temperatures lower than 14֠ for extended periods of time. The fuel system has a fuel pre-heater.

   
Air Conditioning PRN Refrigerant R-134A    

Parts

Part

Capacity Description
Chassis Battery Cranking Amperage
~ 900A
Group 49 AGM Battery
H-8 AGM Battery
House Battery Total Usable AHr > 100 Type 31
Flooded, AGM, Dual 6V GC, Lithium
Lithium batteries require new converter, conditioning of the battery space, and a DC to DC Charger in place of the Boost Solenoid.
Fuel Tank 100L – 25 Gallons The tank includes a reserve of 20L, or about 5.3 Gallons
Windshield Washer 7.4 Quarts  
Headlamps   H7 Lamps for both high beam and low beam sockets. Current LED H7 lamps will fit in the low bean socket, but will not fit in the high beam space.
Fog lamps   H11 Lamps
Parking Lamps   WY5 Lamps
Turn Signal Mirror PY16
Turn Signal Headlamp Assembly PY21
Espar Heater   The Espar heater is located on the driver’s side of the cab, on the outer portion of the undercarriage, if equipped. The Espar heater burns diesel fuel to rapidly increase the temperature of the engine. There is a button on the left side of the steering wheel that is referred to as “Wavy Gravy” or “Bacon button”.

 

There is a thermocouple on the Espar heater. It will only turn on when the temperature is low.