Question
I own a 1999 Holiday Rambler Endeavor and am wondering how I replace the tile and sub-floor around a toilet after a toilet leak? I am a do-it-yourself RV owner.
Submitted via email
Answer
Typically the floor of your RV is a sandwich design of wood panel, block foam insulation with framework, and an upper 1/2” plywood sheet. Some manufactures did put an additional thin subfloor for tile while others did not.
You should be able to remove the tile with a strong putty knife or wood chisel and get a good look at what is underneath. If you let it dry really good, you may not need to replace the sub-floor at all.
My folks had water lines burst on their Class A several years ago and we peeled the carpet back, let it dry, and it was good for years. If the wood is rotten, you can cut out the damaged section and replace it with the same thickness wood and re-tile.
Hope this helps,
David Solberg
Related:
8 Tips For A More Luxurious RV Experience
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The air conditioning/heating unit shorted out when another camper plugged in to the electric pole I was using. Is there a reset button that I am not finding. I’m not seeing the make and model of the unit but I would bet that it is as old as the camper. Thank you in advance
Hello Linda,
Thank you for contacting us.
What is the year, make, and model of your RV?
Thanks!
The wall panel in the bedroom need replaceding is it a big Job.
How can I replace water damaged walls
Hello Andrew,
Thank you for your question. The ‘Ask an Expert’ section is currently for paid members of our online community. By becoming a member, you will also receive access to our full-length videos, articles, and discounts on products.
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Sincerely,
Sarah
RV Repair Club Video Membership
I’m trying to install 4mm plywood around the windows of our Bus and same with on the ceiling. I am having problems with measuring the half moons of windows and air vent. Whenever I seem to measure and cut and put it to fit it always seems out of whack. Any solutions on how to get the plywood properly installed around windows so it sits nice and flush
Hello Juan,
The best thing to use is a pilot panel bit in a router. This is what they use at the factory for openings. It’s just a drill bit that has cutting blades on the side. The end of the bit is smooth to press up against the framing opening. You drill into the center of the panel and pull along until it hits the edge of the framing. You then walk it along clockwise keeping firm pressure until it cuts out the opening needed. This is the easiest way to cut curved openings. The windows do have to be removed for this to work. Here is a video that shows how to use this style of bit:
https://youtu.be/aXt05LYirsY
Sincerely,
Dan
RV Repair Club Technical Expert
The problem I’m having is the measurement of the windows to be trace out on plywood I have a curved roof with a roofvent in the middle of it. I also have flat walls where I have to measure the funny shape windows on to plywood. I seem to be way of every time.
Hello Jua,
If you need to trace the openings, you can use large construction paper to overlap the openings and then trace around it to get a cutout of the openings. Measuring and doing the curves by drawing out will never work out. You will need to trace the openings to get it exact.
Sincerely,
Dan
RV Repair Club Technical Expert
First time owner. How winterize our newzed RV?
Hi Phillip, I am not sure what year/make/model you have but we do have some videos about this on the site. I would check out this one: https://www.rvrepairclub.com/video/how-to-winterize-an-rv-007818/ and if you type “winterize” into the search bar, you’ll see a few more videos. Thanks!
I can’t find a main electrical shut off switch inside the unit. It’s a pain to disconnect batteries in storage.
Hi Richard. I believe that model is a trailer, most trailers do not have a battery disconnect switch installed from the factory. Switches installed are usually very close to the batteries so I would check by the front at the a-frame or in a storage compartment but most likely you never had one from the factory. You can always install one to make it easier.
Dan
RV Repair Club
I am replacing the entire floor sub floor and all components of floor. How do I attach the luan under the joists?
Hello Stevanna,
Great question! The ‘Ask an Expert’ section is currently for members of our online community. By becoming a member, you will have access to our expert’s knowledge. With your membership you will also receive discounts on products and hundreds of hours of Premium content.
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Thanks!
What all do I need and how to replace my subfloor I’ve already put in the phone and the flooring I’m just a little confused on how and where to start I basically have all the supplies needed
Hello Amanda,
We would love to answer this expert question for you but I would need the year, make, and model of your RV. Once we receive the information, we can pass it along to the experts.
Sincerely,
Sarah
RV Repair Club Video Membership
I bought a camper that needs a complete interior/exterior re-do and I have never done this. How do I install the floor so it is attached to the aluminum siding of the camper. Currently I can see gaps between the walls and the rotting floor.
Hi Valerie. Can we please get the year, make and model of your RV?
Thanks
Jean
RV Repair Club Video Membership
It’s a 1964 Fireball Friendship.
Hello Valerie,
Here’s what the experts had to say about your question:
The floor usually goes under the wall. The framing of the wall is typically secured through screws or bolts from the bottom of the frame doing up. This is hard to do unless you rebuild the walls. You can technically rebuild this anyway you can. It is hard to replicate how it was originally built. They could have done things very different back then as well, nowadays the frame is built on top of the floor and then secured. Replacing the floor at the edges is harder with the wall still in place but you can scab pieces in there and secure the best you can and then secure the floor to it.
Sincerely,
Dan
RV Repair Club Technical Expert
How do I replace the flooring on a slide out
Hello Lee,
Thank you for contacting us.
This is best done with the slide removed from the RV. This can be very difficult to do without the proper equipment and it can also be dangerous as well. There are some floating floor systems that can be replaced when it is the opening of the wall. The first thing that needs to be done is everything needs removed from the floor. Take the room all of the way out and look under at the edges of the slide. There should be screws going up into the side walls to hold the floor into place. Remove these screws just past half way back. Take the slide in half way. You then need to support the back wall with standing 2×4’s or jack stands to prevent it from tipping back or dropping. You can then remove the rest of the screws for the floor around the outside edges. If the floor was sitting on rollers, you will have to pry the floor up off the rollers and angle it out. The new floor is best ordered from the manufacture since it is a certain thickness not usually found at hardware stores and often the length exceeds the 8ft boards commonly found. You can try to puzzle some pieces together for support and make it thick enough but it won’t be as stable as a factory board. Again, this is best done with the slide out. Only on certain slide systems can it be replaced while still in the room. I apologize that we don’t have videos on these issues just yet. We make new videos all the time so I’m sure we will address these issues in the near future.
If you have any other concerns, please contact us at 1-855-706-3536, or chat with us on our site.
We greatly appreciate your business!
Sincerely,
Lindsay
RV Repair Club Video Membership
How do I replace the outdoor water intake on my RV. Its leaking and I notice soft spots in the flooe. I got under the RV and noticed all the clamps holding the gray holding tank on one side are rusted out, I am insure how its staying in place. I want to find the leak which i believe is the main intake for the water and start there, thank you.
Hello Anthony,
We would love to answer this expert question for you but I would need the year, make, and model of your RV. Once we receive the information, we can pass it along to the experts.
Please let us know if you have any further questions
Sincerely,
Danesha
RV Repair Club Video Membership
How to remove hinged exterior body panels
Hello Lonnie,
Thank you for contacting us.
What is the year, make, and model of your RV?
If you have any other concerns, please contact us at 1-855-706-3536, or chat with us on our site.
We greatly appreciate your business!
Sincerely,
Lindsay
RV Repair Club Video Membership
I am wanting to take up the carpet and tile and replace it. How do I get the carpet and tile out from under the slides? In the bedroom, it is tight against the carpet. I was thinking to just cut the tile around the sinks and toilets and just going against them and calk it.
Hi Joe. The flooring is installed before the slide rooms are put into place at the factory. A lot of time it is very hard to replace certain flooring with the slide in. I have had to take the slide partially out to gain access to the flooring. This isn’t easy to do and I don’t recommend taking the room further out unless absolutely necessary. It depends on the type of slide but sometimes you are able to remove the lower portion of the slide that is touching the flooring so you can then replace it. This works better for in-wall operated slides like the Schwintek system. There are other systems to where the room does have to be pushed out further though. This can be done by removing the inside fascias and then extending the room just past the carpet but making sure it still is in the room so it doesn’t drop down. You have to be very careful doing this so use caution.
Dan
RV Repair Club
How to replace rotten plywood in kitchen floor and living room floor
Hi Estella. There are different types of flooring used in RV’s but the best way to start is to tear it out. It is best to score the edge of the overlay with a knife and peel it back. If it wasn’t glued it might be able to be saved and put back into place at the end but some manufactures glue the vinyl down and most of the time needs to be replaced. Once you cut it and peel it back you need to cut out the damaged area. Try to look for nails or screws that go into a joist to get a good idea where to cut a straight line. Cut the flooring and open it up/ You then need to find the joists below and check the condition to see if they are good enough to keep or cut out and replace. You can usually attach new studs across them for more supports and build framing into place where more support is needed. You can also tell what thickness flooring is needed as well, many sizes are used. You can then rebuild the flooring from there. You can use the old vinyl pattern to cut out new if needed and secure the edges with staples or use glue. It looks better to install shoe molding around the cut edges. It is all custom from here on what you want. If your flooring turns out the be laminated, aluminum structure with foam under the wood it gets a little hard to add supports without aluminum welding pieces in but it can still be done with wood. Each repair like this is different but these are the basic instructions. Other things and steps might be needed based on the damage and what you have but you really can’t know without tearing into it.
Dan
RV Repair Club
How do I replace the flooring in my master bedroom. With the slidout
Hello Jamie,
What is the year, make, and model of your RV?
If you have any other concerns, please contact us at 1-855-706-3536, or chat with us on our site.
We greatly appreciate your business!
Sincerely,
Lindsay
RV Repair Club Video Membership
Is there a reason Home Depot-style expanding foam is not used on spongy floor repairs? I suspect the answer may be uncontrollable expanding may become a problem. Perhaps using less is more?
Hi Alan,
That’s a great question!
The ‘Ask an Expert’ section is currently for members to our online community. We do have a promotional offer if you are interested. This would include access to expert advice (like this), plus discounts, hours of Premium videos, etc. Please feel free to take a look. You can message us right back with your question if you decide to become a member and you will have a response within 1-2 business days from our experts!
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Ayan
RV Repair Club Video Membership
The LP line have a Rupture need to to be replace, Camping World tellen me they don’t have the tech to do the job….???? After 17 days they have my RV …I wonder!!!
Hi Jesus,
Thank you for contacting us. Please resubmit the question with the make, model and the year of the RV. This is something the experts will need in order to help.
If you have any other concerns, please contact us at 1-855-706-3536, or chat with us on our site.
We greatly appreciate your business!
Sincerely,
Ayan
RV Repair Club Video Membership
Ticket 35308 I have water damage in front and possibly under the refrigerator. The leak has been resolved but definitely need to repair the floor and subflooring. Do you have a class or video for this? Any advice?
Hello Susan,
Thank you for contacting us. Here is the experts response:
We unfortunately don’t have videos on this type of repair yet. There are a many different ways the flooring is made on RV’s. If it is just plywood it is much easier as it would be more like a flooring repair at a house. Many RV’s use a laminated flooring with styrafoam in between the floor boards and can have aluminum joists. These are harder to repair as you need to tear out all of the foam and install new cross joints attached to the current ones for more support before adding the new floor. The floor thicknesses are all different as well. It is hard to tell what you have until you tear it open. It is best to rip out the damaged area and continue until you see the floor supports. Cut the good flooring halfway over the floor joists so you can cut a new piece of plywood over the joist for support. I like to fill the seams with bondo if there are large gaps to make the flooring more smooth. You can overlay with whatever you want but if you use something thicker make sure you have clearance for cabinets and slides. It is much easier to replace sections rather than the whole flooring. You can use transition pieces in doorways to help keep the section replacement down and to make it look nice. You can also add show molding to the edges to cover slices in the flooring and to help hold it down. This are the best tips I can give. To really know what you need to fix it all you would have to tear it out and see what you have and what you need. All of these repairs are custom to each incident so the only way to really know is to dig into it. I hope this was able to help!
https://www.rvrepairclub.com/article/replace-flooring-toilet-leak/
Sincerely,
Dan
RV Repair Club Technical Expert
how to repair soft spot in livng room floor
I have some serious water damage to the rear floor and possibly wall damage as well. What is the best way to approach repairing and determining how extensive repairs are going to be? The water inlet is on the outside wall and I expecting that it could be the culprit. Are there any videos that would help me prepare to tackle this issue on RV Repair? Thx
Hello Jim,
Thank you for being patient while I asked the experts, here is the reply:
Really the only way of knowing how bad the damage is would be to remove the flooring and the wall panels. It could be just the panels or the subfloor but could be worse and the studs and supports could be damaged. I have seen small areas turn into huge repairs because you don’t know what is lurking behind the panels or flooring when water damage is present. Typically it is just removing the panels for the walls and then removing the floor covering and then subfloor to gain access to the supports to see what is needed. Unfortunately the damage is most often worse once you dig into it but you will have to take everything apart to know. The only video we have covering water damage is a roof but it could give you a better idea on how these are built. I will share the link below.
https://www.rvrepairclub.com/video/rv-roof-repair-water-damage-016351/
Sincerely,
Dan
RV Repair Club Technical Expert
Need to replace the seal at the base of the toilet, where it meets the floor. Is this a normal seal like the ones in your home?
Hello Stephen,
Thank you for contacting us. About the wax ring. No. They use a rubbery floor flange gasket. You will need to get one for your RV at a RV parts store. Or Amazon sells some.
If you have any other concerns, please contact us at 1-855-706-3536, or chat with us on our site.
We greatly appreciate your business!
Sincerely,
Joan
RV Repair Club Video Membership
I live in the UK and cannot find/source the aluminium “D” Chanel extrusion that runs under my RV . It is about 2” deep and wide and acts to absorb any impact if I kerb the RV .
I want to replace it as it has gotten dented hitting UK high kerbs.
I need about 25 foot of it.
I think R vision have gone out of business?
Anybody got any idea how I can replace this trim??
Hi Andy! Great question! The ‘Ask an Expert’ section is currently for members of our online community. By becoming a member, you will have access to our expert’s knowledge in RV repairs and maintenance. With your membership you will also receive discounts on products and hours of Premium video content.
If you are interested in becoming a member to RV Repair Club, please click on the special offer below:
https://go.rvrepairclub.com/c19765/
not sure of the model number, but I’m in need of a new ac unit as the current unit caught on fire and melted the serial number. What AC unit would be best for this trailer? Its 25ft
Hello Nicole!
We’d love to help! What is the year, make, and model of your trailer?
Thank you!
Jessica
RV Repair Club Video Membership
How can you repair a ceiling that the vinyl has pulled loose from ceiling? Can you reattach it with something?
Hi Karen.
That’s a great question!
The ‘Ask an Expert’ section is currently for members to our online community. We do have a promotional offer if you are interested. This would include access to expert advice (like this), plus discounts, hours of Premium videos, etc. Please feel free to take a look. You can message us right back with your question if you decide to become a member and you will have a response within 1-2 business days from our experts!
Please follow the steps below to receive the annual membership at the introductory rate:
1. Click on the email link: https://go.rvrepairclub.com/C23586
2. Click on the Premium Membership offer.
3. The Checkout page will display your Premium Membership purchase.
4. Fill in your Billing Details and create an account password.
5. Fill in your debit/credit card information.
6. Finish by clicking Complete Order.
If you have any further questions, please contact Customer Service at 1-855-706-3536 at your earliest convenience, or chat with us on our site.
We greatly appreciate your business!
Sincerely,
Jean
RV Repair Club Video Membership
My floor has bowed where the toilet is
Hi Charles. It’s possible that some fasteners came loose but it could also be from water getting in around the toilet. The best thing to do is remove the toilet and inspect the area for damage or water entry. If you don’t see anything it could just be loose fasteners. There isn’t much that can be done other than peeling back the flooring and securing with more screws. You would have to score along the edges nearby to lift it up and then use a flooring adhesive to secure it back down. It is also best to add shoe molding around the edges as the flooring can curl up from being cut.
Thanks
Dan-RV Repair Club
The carpet in my motorhome is the original carpet. I’d really like to replace it with a laminate. I have been told that the slide will cause scratches as it travels in and out. My slide has glides not rollers but it leaves no indentations in the carpet. What are my options for replacement?
Hi Bruce. The glides shouldn’t cause damage but the debris that can get caught under the glides can, like little rocks and dirt. It is best to use Slide Slickers. These are just protective pads you place under the slide before you bring it in and can lift them up once the room is out. They can be used on any flooring to protect them. You should be fine with laminate and using the Slickers. Here is a link to them:
https://store.lci1.com/slide-out-slicker-134993.html
Thanks
Dan-RV Repair Club
My husband is a retired construction finish carpenter. Would replacing a section of rotten floor in our Class A bathroom be something he could tackle?
Hello Roxann,
Thank you for contacting us. I would say he will have no trouble with the task, he already knows all about wood. The average handy man would have no problems.
Good Luck.
If you have any other concerns, please contact us at 1-855-706-3536, or chat with us on our site.
We greatly appreciate your business!
Sincerely,
Joan
RV Repair Club Video Membership
I’m replacing the entire floor except for the aluminum frame. Looking for ideas on how to get new upper and lower layers plus the underbelly between the outer frame and where it mounts to the trailer. I found 3 9/16 bolts holding down the section of the frame behind the wheels. I took the nuts off and tried using a floor jack to raise the frame above the trailer. Instead, it was just lifting the whole thing. I guess it’s possible that the bolts are somehow so stuck that they’re holding even without the nut, but thought I’d see if anyone else has done something like this or has ideas.
I bought a used 2004 Hitchhiker II less than a year ago. There are many aesthetic improvements I want to make and many more repairs/replacements that I need to make. Replacing the flooring is one. There are several soft spots that need addressed and I really don’t like carpet. What is the best solid flooring to install? Another immediate necessity is replacing wall panels. Not only was I not told that the cracking under one window in the rear was actually water damage, but I found mold growing in the wall between the front door and the shower. I wanted to replace the walls for aesthetics anyway, but now it’s become a necessity. What is best for wall materials and where can I buy it?
I always recommend vinyl flooring. It holds up better than anything else for RV’s. There are drastic temperature fluctuations in RV’s and vinyl holds up the best under those conditions. As for the walls, they are typically 1/4″ paneling and new boards can be found at local hardware stores. If you don’t like the designs or colors you can always check at local RV dealers and go into their new models. If you find a panel you like they should be able to order it in for you. You can usually get new modern looking panels at local hardware stores, the big chains have them too, but by searching around other RV manufactures you get more options as well. The same goes for the flooring too.
Sincerely,
Dan
RV Repair Club Technical Expert
5th wheel
Hello Pauline!
We’d love to help! Could we have a bit more information as to what you’re asking and what the year, make, and model of your 5th wheel is!
Thank you!
Jessica
RV Repair Club Video Membership
I want to replace the flooring in the MH with vinyl plank flooring. Please advise the best process and video suggestions. Thanks so much!
We actually don’t have any videos showing how to do this at this time. I also don’t recommend plank flooring, it doesn’t hold up well in RV’s. Because the temperatures in RV’s fluctuate so much and will get below freezing during the winter depending on where you store it the planks can shift around and cause issues. It is better to use solid piece flooring but you are welcome to use whatever you want. You have to remove the old flooring first and whatever adhesive will be underneath. It is best to just cut along the edges of the cabinets. Planks will have to be installed up against all of the cabinets and walls, can’t go under it unless you remove everything and have the clearance to raise them as planks are thicker. You will also want to add shoe molding around all edges as well. Installation is about the same as at a house, just have to watch for clearances of cabinet doors and the slide outs if you have them.
Sincerely,
Dan
RV Repair Club Technical Expert
Can I pull up the carpet and replace it with linoleum?
Hello Philip,
Thank you for contacting us. Can you please provide the make, model and the year of the RV so the experts know what they are assisting with? Or if you would like to fill out the expert question email at the bottom of the page, you can click on “Contact Us” and fill in the boxes with your information and question and the experts will send you the answer via email.
If you have any other concerns, please contact us at 1-855-706-3536, or chat with us on our site.
We greatly appreciate your business!
Sincerely,
Joan
RV Repair Club Video Membership
reseal upper front window
Hello!
Would you be able to elaborate on your issue and we would need the year, make, and model of your RV.
Thank you!
Jessica
RV Repair Club Video Membership
We have a slide with a subfloor that needs to be replaced. The slide is a Schwintek slide. Is there another way to replace the subfloor without removing the entire slide from the unit? Our local RV technician said this was the only way. We’re pretty handy and think we might have figured out way to replace the subfloor with the slide still in, but don’t want to do more damage if the only way to replace it correctly is to remove the entire slide. Do you know anything about replacing the subfloor in a Schwintek slide?
Hello Mike!
That’s a great question!
The ‘Ask an Expert’ section is currently for members to our online community. We do have a promotional offer if you are interested. This would include access to expert advice (like this), plus discounts, hours of Premium videos, etc. Please feel free to take a look. You can message us right back with your question if you decide to become a member and you will have a response within 1-2 business days from our experts!
Please follow the steps below to receive the annual membership at the introductory rate:
1. Click on the email link: https://www.rvrepairclub.com/?add-to-cart-multi=1&products=79&skipcart=1&coupon=C22153&vscid=C22153&skipcart=325324/?nabc=0&SubscriberKeyHash={{SubKeyHash}}
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If you have any further questions, please contact Customer Service at 1-855-706-3536 at your earliest convenience, or chat with us on our site.
We greatly appreciate your business!
Sincerely,
Jessica
RV Repair Club Video Membership
My slide tour i-parcel flooring on my vinyl how can I repair it
Hello Frederick!
We’d love to help! Could you clarify your question for me?
Thank you!
Jessica
RV Repair Club Video Membership
How to replace flooring in Montana fifth wheel.
Gordon,
Flooring replacement is customized for every job so it is really hard to give a thorough walkthrough on something like that but the basic steps are removing the floor covering, sections can be cut out if the whole floor doesn’t need replaced. Once you remove that you will see the flooring and you want to find a seam. You may have to cut a larger area to find the seams. Under the seams are the floor supports. You want to cut out the damaged flooring between the supports. Once removed you need to inspect the supports and add more if they are damaged. You can then build the new flooring on top and replace the covering. There might be other things that need removed to gain access to the floor like cabinets, slides, walls etc. There are many things that can be done and the rebuild can be whatever you want. If you had vinyl originally you could always replace with carpet as it is easier and hard to find a match for the vinyl flooring. Some repairs can take just a little while to do while others could take a long time. Like I said before they are all different and customize based on what you have to replace and what you want but I hope this helps give you a better idea of what needs to be done!
Sincerely,
Dan
RV Repair Club Technical Expert
Soft spot in bathroom after a toilet leak. How do you repair floor on this model?
John,
It depends on what type of flooring you have but you would have to remove the overlay which is usually vinyl or tile in the bathroom. Once this is removed you can see what the sub-floor looks like. Sometimes it can be dried out and other times it will need replaced. It is best to replace a whole section of sub-floor or at least to the floor joists and this is where it can get tricky as you might have to tear out many other things to replace it properly. Every repair like this is different and the only way to know what needs replaced is to tear in and find out what can be done.
Sincerely,
Dan
RV Repair Club Technical Expert
The water filler with an aerator valve. What is it called and where can I purchase it? So, I can just purge the water out with compressed air.
CG,
It is just called a Blow Out Plug. Camco makes a few different models. Model 36143 can be used with an air hose quick connect where as Model 36153 has a valve stem where you can use a tire filler to blow the air through. They can be purchased in many RV supply stores and online. I will share a few links below to help.
https://www.walmart.com/ip/Camco-36143-Blow-Out-Plug-for-RV-Winterizing/29764314?wmlspartner=wlpa&selectedSellerId=1063&adid=22222222227021475530&wl0=&wl1=g&wl2=c&wl3=40838463032&wl4=aud-566049426705:pla-78651722432&wl5=9015531&wl6=&wl7=&wl8=&wl9=pla&wl10=112549983&wl11=online&wl12=29764314&veh=sem&gclid=Cj0KCQiA-4nuBRCnARIsAHwyuPpaKcFGRtgwUnbJwDizXgpQw6qfWP6Z3hU685j6CjjGZlFTw9CSXSoaAlP0EALw_wcB
https://www.walmart.com/ip/seort/23529548?wmlspartner=wlpa&selectedSellerId=0&adid=22222222227017106063&wl0=&wl1=g&wl2=c&wl3=40838797232&wl4=aud-566049426705:pla-78652437392&wl5=9015531&wl6=&wl7=&wl8=&wl9=pla&wl10=8175035&wl11=online&wl12=23529548&veh=sem&gclid=Cj0KCQiA-4nuBRCnARIsAHwyuPrCuR9D1Ln6CjJ7rWysB-xPKqWGmXq9vOOFpw3S4r6cs9q9z951wTkaAsfoEALw_wcB
Sincerely,
Dan
RV Repair Club Technical Expert
Re-hanging Grey water tank, prior owner removed 2 of 4 brackets. I have the other brackets. How thick is the floor material, that I have to screw into.
Thanks
Hi there Bob!
That’s a great question!
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Floor is water damaged under a slide out refrigerator
Tom,
If the main slide floor is damaged, it is best to replace the entire floor. Since the floors have to be a certain thickness and typically ride on rollers or have a certain clearance it is hard to replace just a section and make it strong enough to support the weight that is needed. Replacing the floor is not an easy task as the whole room usually has to come out of the RV and laid on it’s side. I have successfully replaced smaller slide floors without removing the room but this can only be done on certain ones that have enough clearance underneath that the room does not need lifted up to gain access to the screws. If you have clearance and the damaged area isn’t too large you might be able to modify the cabinet by removing everything and then installing a floor on top of the damaged area to make a new support and then re installing everything else back on top of this. You will just have to make sure the new floor goes beyond the damaged area a good amount to make sure it is secure. Some fridges sit on top of a separate floor than the main floor and these can be replaced a lot easier. There are some options that might be possible without removing the room but typically if the main slide floor is damaged it is best to replace the entire flooring.
Sincerely,
Dan
RV Repair Club Technical Expert
Hot water heater – How long should it run before shutting off and at what temp?
Clayton,
They turn off around 140 degrees. It depends on the size of the tank, temperature of the water being put into the tank and what heating source you are using but typically it takes about an hour for it to reach temperature while operating on electric and about 30-40 minutes for it on gas. This is for the 6 gallon tank which is more common. If you have a 10 or 12 gallon tank, it will take about twice as long for each of the sources.
Sincerely,
Dan
RV Repair Club Technical Expert
My RV has a floor of vinyl or something similar and has several soft spots, expecially in front of the washer/dryer and kitchen sink, most likely caused by water. I want to fix those spots but hesitate until I know more about how to do it and what to expect. I’ve searched this site, in vain, for a “HOW TO” on motorhome floors. The closest I’ve seen is, a front bunkhouse floor repair – which doesn’t apply – and a “Replace flooring after a toilet leak” – which I haven’t had, and which doesn’t go into sufficient detail for major floor repair. Please, either point me to a “Gold Member” length video on this site, or another site with this information.
I was new to camping so I found this camper at a fair price. Not knowing what to look for, it had water damage on Rt. side where the roll out was and now the floor in the outside wall on front end is in bad shape. I am a do-it-yourself fixer but I need to know if this can really be repaired or best just get rid of it the best I can and start with a new camper?
Wood rot
I am the owner of a 2003 American Tradition Coach and I need help to solve a problem I am having with the Direct Current part of my electrical system. The D/C is all off line including the battery disconnect. This outage mimics what happens when I push the battery disconnect button because all of the buttons go off line. But…pushing the battery disconnect button again does not allow the battery to come back on line.
It all started when blue sparks flew as I was replacing a simple light bulb at the entry door. The total D/C failed. A serviceman came to my sight but, was unable to fix the problem. His final finding was that the Multiplex board located under the bed was registering power coming into the board but, no power was coming out. His final suggestion for me was to replace the Multiplex board. Where do I go from here? Please help!
Hi Jimmy,
Is the multiplex board you are talking about the panel for the fuses? If there is 12v power going to the board but nothing is coming out, it would need replaced. I’m not sure what would have caused it to fail from changing a light bulb though. If putting a 12v bulb into a 120v fixture it would cause it to pop but that would not affect the 12v system. Putting a 120v bulb into the 12v system would normally just give a dim light if not work at all. It is possible there was a short put that should have blown a fuse. Normally the fuse would prevent any damage from happening. He did the right thing for checking voltage to the board, and if there is none then the board has failed and would need replaced. They are complex computer boards and if something internal has failed it can’t be fixed. When replacing anything electrical always make sure the power is off, even on the 12v system.
I hope this was helpful!
Dan
RV Repair Club Video Membership
How to redo the floors
We purchased a used RV and there are numerous soft spots in the floor, how do we repair?
I need to replace the sub floor in the bathroom. When I cut out the old sub floor is there
Anything under the floor that I need to be careful of? Such as electric wires, water lines,
Gas lines.
Floor under my toilet is soft and won’t hold a screw due to prior flange breakage. Can I take a 1/8 thick piece of aluminum and size it to the base of the new toilet and screw that to the floor and a new flange to it? I can raise the flange up about 1/2″ with out unscrewing it from the tank.
just got through rebuilding mine for same reason, 4 7/16 nuts hold the toilet to a flange underneath and a rubber gasket then the flange comes off which is deck screwed to the ply wood. I just cut out a piece of tile to match the square plywood spacer I built, deck screwed the replacement spacer to fresh undamaged wood. I did rebuild the plumbing because now I needed a longer chute. It does make the toilet sit higher but its not an issue for me. I painted my homebuilt spacer with ACE Hardware appliance white and its all good. RV parts store should have the necessary parts for you dont forget to put new rubber gasket and carefully put in exact place or it wont seal properly and you have to do it all over again a year from now
My valves regulating black tank and grey tanks are broken
My electric jack will extend but will not retract all the way. The 12 Volt Circuit Breaker Trips. After several attempts, when the circuit breaker resets I can get it to a reasonable position to travel. Getting worse. Is this something that is repairable?
Hello Daniel,
To provide more specific troubleshooting information on your jack issue we need the make, model, and year of the jack. If it’s a hydraulic jack with a spring on each side, it could be weak springs, or more likely corrosion on the post at the seal making for a difficult retraction which would cause friction and higher amp draw on the motor. This would trip the breaker.
Thanks,
David
RV Repair Club Video Membership
My Blackwater tank contains only urine. Everything is fine until I serve the vehicle. And I smell urine in the drivers seat. How do I find the fracture?
Hello Jeffrey,
First, if you smell the distinct odor of urine, you are probably not using
the proper black water tank treatment. I would suggest looking at
the Thetford products on the market and treat the tank first. Next,
check all your vents to make sure they are not obstructed or if you have a
“cheater” vent under a kitchen counter, replace it. Then you will
need to locate the black water tank and inspect the plumbing from the
toilet to the tank and how it connects as there could be a back seal.
Thanks,
David
RV Repair Club Video Membership
I believe my HSH Hydraulic Leveling circuit board has gone bad. It will not light up and allow me to operate the jacks on my 2000 Forest River Reflection. Any suggestions and or information on where to locate the part needed is appreciated.
Hi Randy,
I believe you have an HWH leveling system? They sell parts on their website here: https://www.hwhcorp.com/ml11428fop.html
Thanks,
David
RV Repair Club Video Membership
The Rv was not winterized properly so when I hooked water up to it water came out the bottom.so what I need to know is how do I repair the plumbing or replace.
I have a lippert hydrolic slide that drifts out. There is alot of pressure on the slide when it drifts out had a strap to help hold it in while going doen the road there was a lot of tension on it. While sitting at the house for a week dod nothing
I have a Spartan 1245 with a lippert hydrolic slide. The slide drifts out driving down the road and while sitting in the driveway. You can hear it poping and it will slowly drift out. Put a strap on it to keep it in on a trip. The strap had a lot of pressure on it. The valves are closed. We had it worked on and they said they bleed the line but still doing same thing. I am trying to figure out what causes the pressure to push it out while not in use.
Thanks
AMY
Hello Amy,
You probably have a seal leak that is not holding the pressure required to keep it in. Just bleeding the lines will not fix it as you have found. I would suggest contacting Lippert Components Inc (LCI) to find the nearest authorized service center and they can provide technical assistance. Visit them here; http://www.LCI1.com
Thanks,
David
RV Repair Club Video Membership
Hello , first time RV , I have this class c and I want to learn so much about it but , everyone seems to want to talk about the class a and bigger can I and I’m sure a lot of us out there would like to hear and learn more about class c , that’s what I bought and want more info , I would really appreciate it , thank you
The rear most part of my floor on the right side, has a tie-down bracket. The plywood floor has gotten wet from a gasket leak and the plywood has rotted and the tie-down bracket has pulled out. I am looking for ideas on how to fix it.
Hello Frank,
I’m assuming you are referring to a floor in the toyhauler portion of an RV? You can replace the damaged plywood, however it would be easier to cover it with a thin metal diamond plate covering then reinstall new tie downs by drilling a hole through the diamond plate, plywood, and install a metal backing plate underneath and bolt the tie down through the plate. This will provide a solid surface but also sandwich the entire area for a solid mount.
Thanks,
David
RV Repair Club Video Membership
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My bedroom slide has leaked because there is an outward tilt on the top of the slide. I can’t determine how to adjust this condition. I have removed the bed, floor, etc. Would like to repair the slide prior to installing new floor, insulation, etc.
Hello Mike,
To provide more specific information on adjust your slide we need the make, model, and year of your rig as well as the type of slide mechanism. If it’s the bedroom it could be a Schwintek or cable slide both of which have basically no height adjustment? However, if it’s a cable slide and the cables have stretched, the room will not come in all the way at the top and could leak because of the gap? This can be adjusted inside by tightening the bolt/knuckle connecting the cable to the chain. See the video on the site.
Thanks,
David
RV Repair Club Video Membership
Bedroom slides are intermittently not going out or not closing, and I don’t know where the relays are so I can check them
Hello Paul,
To provide more specific troubleshooting information on your slideroom issue, we need the make, model, and year of your rig as well as what slideroom mechanism. Also, there are typically no “relays” that you can check. Check your owner’s manual to see if there is an OEM manual for your slide mechanism? Most newer units use a Lippert Components Inc (LCI) system with either a cable type mechanism with the motor above the slideroom inside, or a gear system known as Schwintek with motors inside on the slide jamb. Most of the time when a smaller electric slide mechanism used in a bedroom slide operates erratically, it can be traced to the house battery condition. If you are plugged in to a shoreline power and are not drawing a large amount of power from the batteries, the converter can provide enough power to operate the slide mechanism motor. Most of these motors draw a large amount of power at start up and if the battery is low or is sulfated and not able to store enough energy, the motor will demand power and the battery can’t supply it so the motor stops.
I would suggest getting your batteries tested, and the next time you have a non-operating condition, connect a battery charger to the house batteries and see if that works?
Thanks,
David RVRC Video Membership
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What can I use to remove the glue under the captains chairs and around motor cover. Winnebago told me to use paint thinner. But it does not work. Tried just about everything on the market and couldn’t get it off. It is still tacky. Every time I try to scrape it it still will not come off. What will work????
Hello Randy,
NOTHING! Sorry to be so blunt, but we are trying to put new flooring on a 2003 Brave and have run into the same thing. Goo Gone has worked on a few adhesives used for the vinyl flooring but in the driver and passenger compartment it’s been a wood chisel and a 1/4” at a time. We did manage to get most of the carpet, foam, and tack strips off but the adhesive is still clinging to the firewall and other areas. So we covered it with 1/8” subfloor to start with a smooth surface.
Thanks,
David RVRC Video Membership
Dealer tells me slideout seats back a bit causing water to damage an are of the floor. Wont fix and socalled ext warranty wont fix either. How to repair the soft area of the floor? Novice here.
Hello Elden,
This is not a repair for a novice as the room needs to be removed and pretty much torn apart to replace the floor! I would contact the extended warranty company directly to find out why they will not cover it and maybe get a second opinion from another repair facility?
Thanks,
David
RV Repair Club Video Membership
My rig has 2 AC/heat pumps on the roof, and a Duo-Therm 4 button thermostat. I would like to upgrade to the 5 button thermostat, which requires the new thermostat and two matching circuit boards. I find the kits on ebay but they are over US$400, which I think is rather expensive! Can anyone suggest any other options?
I want to check my hydronic fluid level. The cap on the fluid tank is plastic and I don’t want to break it or the tank by taking off the incorrect way. Does it unscrew off, push and twist off?
Hello Joseph,
To provide more specific information on checking what I assume is the fluid level of the Aqua Hot heating system that uses a Hydronic Fluid mixture we need the model number of the Aqua Hot system. Typically the level can be visually inspected at the expansion tank without taking the cap off. According to the owner’s manual of a 400D model, the fluid should be checked when hot just after the burner shuts off and will have a visible “Hot” line on the tank. If you need to add fluid, consult the owner’s manual of your model which you can download on their site here: http://www.aquahot.com/Library.aspx
Thanks,
David RVRC Video Membership
My in-motion satellite dish stopped searching sounds like it’s stuck
My furnace not working there’s LP Gas, Fuse is good your help is apppreciated.
Hello Omar,
To troubleshoot the furnace you need to understand the sequence of operation and determine which action is not happening. The thermostat calls for heat when the temperature drops below the setting and a circuit is closed sending the request to the module board. The module board then starts the blower motor which pushes air into the burner chamber. This lifts a sail switch at the front of the chamber, once this sail switch gets to a certain height, it also creates a closed circuit which tells the module board there is sufficient air flow to light and the gas valve is opened and the spark ignitor lights the burner assembly. Hot air is then blown through the burner chamber to the vents inside passing over a high limit switch at the end of the burner chamber. If a vent inside the rig is closed or blocked with a rug and the air is restricted, the burner chamber gets to hot and the limit switch shuts the unit down.
Follow this sequence and verify if the blower is coming on, the furnace is trying to light but doesn’t, or lights and shuts off. If your batteries are not above 10.5 volts, the blower motor will start, but will not produce enough air flow to raise the sail switch? If nothing happens, verify the thermostat is going into the closed position or just jump the two wires. You can also verify 12-volt power at the furnace by removing the cover and testing the automotive style plug.
Thanks,
David RVRC Video Membership
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furnace, no heat fan comes on but no heat
furnace, no heat fan comes on but no heat is there a pizzo switch that ignites heat chamber
sorry my first time on discussiongave wrong info its a 1996 mini winni when turn on thermostat on the fan comes on but heater does not ignite is there a electronic igniter on heater
there is a 12 volt igniter that lights the flame, either youre not getting voltage to the igniter or it just could need a good scrubbing, Ive done mine several times easy fix, one tiny little screw holds the igniter in place take it out and clean good with wire brush nothing else then put back. mine fires right up
Hi Mark,
That’s a great question!
The ‘Ask an Expert’ section is currently for members to our online community. We do have a promotional offer if you are interested. This would include access to expert advice (like this), plus discounts, hours of Premium videos, etc. Please feel free to take a look. You can message us right back with your question if you decide to become a member and you will have a response within 1-2 business days from our experts!
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If you have any further questions, please contact Customer Service at 1-855-706-3536 at your earliest convenience, or chat with us on our site.
We greatly appreciate your business!
Sincerely,
Shelley
RV Repair Club Video Membership”
How do I replace my roof. I will need new wood. Maybe even new rafters. Please help.
Hello Jimmy,
To provide more specific troubleshooting information on your roof replacement we need the make, model, and year of the rig. Replace the roof and the underlayment is a very large task as it requires tearing off the outer material whether it’s aluminum, fiberglass, or rubber and then inspecting the wood. I would suggest supporting the inside with some 2”x 6” boards running front to back and adjustable ceiling joist holding them up. It’s just a step by step process that will take some patience.
Thanks,
David RVRC Video Membership
would like to know if blueprints of the plumbing and wiring are available
I am looking for any operations manual or procedures associated with Power Plus Levelers. Since they are out of business I can not find any helpful online information..Thank You
We have a 2017 5th wheel and the one inch opening around front legs seems to be a open invitation to mice and squirrels
Any suggestions for closing off this access
Hello Calvin,
To provide more specific information on keep mice from getting inside your rig we need the make and model of your 5th wheel. I’m not sure what you are referring to as the “front legs” as most 5th wheels have leveling jacks up front that are bolted to the frame? They do have hydraulic lines that may be going into the floor of the rig in which case you can use some expandable foam to fill the holes.
Thanks,
Becky RVRC Video Membership
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I have tried to find a electrical schematic for t it. I have a few plugins that don’t work along my kitchen. I have on at the end off the cabinets that work and then about three foot down another that doesn’t. I contacted company that makes my trailer and they say they don’t have any schematics any more. Have any ideas where I might find one?
Hello Ed,
To provide more specific troubleshooting information regarding your outlet and a wiring diagram we need the make, model and year of your RV. However I have to say that most RV manufacturers do not have these available other than Winnebago, so you might need to dig into this yourself. I would suggest getting a multimeter and checking the voltage coming in and out of your outlets. Could be you have a GFCI tripped and the others are “ganged” to that and will not work? For outlets, you don’t need a schematic, just an understanding of 120-volt electrical and what outlets are connected to that GFCI with the reset button.
Thanks,
David RVRC Video Membership
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Yes check your outlets since they are ganged / daisy chained to each other. I had (3) GFI outlets go out.I found that circuit was connected to an outdoor outlet which must have gotten moisture in it and became corroded and the circuit stopped at that point. I replaced the outlet now everything works fine.
i’m new to diesel motorhomes. trying to locate reservoir for the power steering fluid. I suspect a leak, and trying to determine whether i’m losing level.
Hello Richard,
The power steering on a diesel pusher is typically hydraulic fluid with a reservoir canister in the back engine compartment and the fluid line running to a gear box in the front. It is a larger canister, approximately 6” in diameter and about 8-10” high.
Thanks,
David RVRC Video Membership
The unit trips the GFI whenever i turn it on (Refrigerator).
Hello Junior,
To provide more specific troubleshooting information on your ref/GFCI issue we need the make, model, and year of your RV as well as the refrigerator. Also, where is your GFCI outlet located? Most have one main GFCI in the bathroom or kitchen and other outlets “ganged” to the main. If the main trips, all outlets are also tripped and not working. Also, I assume you are turning the refrigerator on the 120-Volt AC mode? Typically the refrigerator is plugged into a 120-volt outlet behind the refrigerator accessible from the outside vent cover. Most of the outlets in your RV are only 10 amp so if your refrigerator is connected to other GFCI outlets and anything else is running, the 6-9 amps the refrigerator runs on will trip the outlet! You need to get the unit into a RVIA certified technician to test the power draw.
Thanks,
David RVRC Video Membership
wondering about a bubble on the roof, delamination? Is that repairable?
Want to dry camp and want to know what is the best option to buy a small generator ?
Need to run roof top air conditioner
Trailer is 32
Ft one ac unit thx
Hello William,
You will want to get a generator/inverter which will provide a syne wave rather than raw power. I would suggest Yamaha, Honda, or Champion which several RV dealers are now carrying. You will have to calculate the size you need with the power you want to run. Roof air conditioners typically are 14,800 BTU and run at 14 amps max so you will need a fairly large model.
Thanks,
David RVRC Video Membership
I have a 3000 watt honda inverter generator. It,s super quiet and runs 2 of my big 3 at a time ( a/c, microwave, water heater) when using a generator, propane is a cheaper way to heat water though.my dad has a 3500 watt and his works great also. We are running 30 amp systems in our trailers.
How do I replace the flooring in my master bedroom. With the slidout
Hello Jamie,
What is the year, make, and model of your RV?
If you have any other concerns, please contact us at 1-855-706-3536, or chat with us on our site.
We greatly appreciate your business!
Sincerely,
Lindsay
RV Repair Club Video Membership