Common questions about B-Class RV upgrades, repairs, and maintenance — answered from our knowledge base.
A heat pump is more efficient than a heat strip, especially when electricity costs are a factor. However, it can be noisier. Using the Truma heat mode is suggested as an alternative to a heat strip.
The Coleman and 3501 AC units are similar in size (13.5K BTU), while the 3800 is slightly larger (15K BTU) and includes a heat pump mode. The host prefers the 3800 for the heat pump functionality, but noted the Houghton models are also an option.
A LIBIM (Lithium Battery Isolation Manager) is an alternative to a traditional solenoid. It uses wiping contacts to prevent sparking and has a duty cycling mechanism that opens and closes on a 15-20 minute cycle to allow the alternator to cool. This is particularly important when charging multiple batteries to prevent overheating and potential alternator failure.
A custom Victron system requires direct contact with Voltagen Power Solutions for support and pricing. It eliminates noise and parasitic draw and incorporates online functionality. It may require a 48V solar setup and an upgraded alternator controller. It’s not a standard DIY project.
The Victron BMV712 offers more accurate voltage tracking and handles higher amperage (500 amps) compared to cheaper Chinese shunt alternatives that often lack Bluetooth connectivity. While the Chinese versions are less expensive, the improved accuracy and features of the Victron BMV712 are generally worth the investment.
The 'Storm to Liquid' battery box is a versatile device that provides power and charging capabilities. It includes a power readout, USB-C in/out ports, a USB-A port, an adjustable 12V plug, and adapters. It can power devices ranging from soldering irons to laptops, offering a flexible power solution.
Unlike AGM batteries, voltage readings are not a reliable indicator of lithium battery capacity. The voltage will appear relatively consistent regardless of the battery’s charge level. You’ll need to estimate usage over time and learn how long your power consumption lasts before the voltage drops to around 12 volts, indicating near depletion.
A low-cost conversion involves using a converter boost plug (CBP) to force the converter to output 14.4 volts and setting your ZAMP solar charger to LIFE P04 mode. This ensures the lithium batteries charge properly. You can find the CBP on STG.NET or create your own.
BMS stands for Battery Management System. Unlike lead-acid batteries, lithium batteries have specific operating limits. A BMS prevents damage by managing power draw and discharge, ensuring the battery operates within safe parameters.
The '1C' rating refers to the maximum discharge rate of a lithium battery. It represents the amount of amps the battery can safely deliver, equal to its amp-hour rating (e.g., a 100Ah battery can safely output 100 amps). Using batteries with lower 'C' ratings (like 0.5C) is generally not recommended for RV applications requiring significant power.
Victron shunt meters can be tuned to accurately track battery SOC, but the tuning is specific to the battery type and BMS. The host successfully tuned their meter to their batteries, achieving near-perfect accuracy. This tuning may not be transferable to other battery types.
Yes, the host has successfully upgraded rigs with existing shunt meters, and they were generally in good condition. This suggests that pre-existing installations can often be reused or incorporated into new modifications.
Replacing the microwave with a convection model, like the Toshiba ML2-EC09SAIT or Rec-Pro combo, requires careful planning. The Toshiba fits the standard cutout with minor adjustments, but the Rec-Pro installation is reportedly difficult. To prevent overheating, consider installing muffin fans to exhaust hot air from the cabinet, as one member did. Monitoring temperatures with probes and rerouting wiring with heat-resistant sleeves are also good practices. Be mindful of the increased power draw (e.g., 14 amps for the Toshiba) and ensure your battery system can handle it.
Charging via the alternator can lead to solenoid failures. Switching to an LI-BIM-225 is suggested as a potential solution to mitigate this issue.
A member tapped into the 12VDC line that goes to the lights above the bed on the driver side for powering fans and sensors. This is a convenient location, but ensure the circuit can handle the additional load.
Several options exist: using a Starlink-compatible cigarette lighter plug, mounting on the dashboard/windshield, using a Jackery 500 power bank, utilizing a rooftop power outlet, or using a Starlink adapter. The Starlink-branded cigarette adapter is recommended.
When using a 50-amp to 30-amp adapter, it’s crucial to limit your power draw to 15 amps. You can set limits on your Power Control System (PCS) or Victron inverter. Be mindful of cable gauge, especially when using extension cords, as thinner gauges (12 or 14 gauge) can overheat if overloaded. Multiple extensions significantly increase the risk. Also, ensure you understand the location and function of the PCS.
The LIBIM acts as a relay. The limiting factor for charging power is the alternator's output. As current draw increases, voltage drops, and the alternator's ability to charge is limited. Continuous operation at maximum capacity can overheat the alternator.
The host recommends taping off fuse connections to protect them from harsh weather conditions. This is a simple preventative measure to ensure the longevity of the connections.
Mounting the Starlink Mini on the RV roof generally works well, with users reporting good performance. Mounting on the driver's side can help avoid tree interference. A magnetic mounting system offers flexibility for roof or ground deployment. Powering the Mini with a Jackery is a common solution. Performance can be reduced when parked under trees.
Beyond better tires (like KO2s), lift kits are an option, but consider potential CV joint failures. Adding springs, Bilstein shocks, and practicing safe driving techniques are also recommended. A 3.5-inch lift kit typically costs around $3,500. Remember that a Travato is not designed for serious off-roading, and front-wheel drive limits capability.
A Jackery power station, such as the Jackery 1000v2, is a common solution for powering the Starlink Mini in an RV. This provides a reliable power source independent of the RV's electrical system.
The $5 pause feature on Starlink allows for low data communication (calls, texts, slow website access) and can delay the start of a prorated month of service. It’s a way to maintain connectivity without incurring the full monthly cost.
The Travato is not designed as an off-road vehicle. The best improvement for rough terrain is to upgrade the tires.
The LS330 (bottom) and LS200 (top) vent covers are popular choices. They can be found on eBay from seller BrownHillsMotorHomesParts in the UK.
Insulating the cab doors can be problematic. Some members advise against it due to potential moisture issues, mold, and rust, as the doors have drain holes. A less risky option is to use Kilmat for sound dampening only.
A power outlet and access port are located in the forward upper cabinet on the passenger side. A plastic box directly above on the roof provides a routing point for cables after drilling a hole.
Carrying a spare tire can significantly reduce delays if you experience a flat, especially when traveling far from civilization or when timing is critical. While it doesn't guarantee you'll avoid breakdowns, having a spare allows for quicker repairs compared to waiting for a tow and replacement tire. Mounting it on the roof requires a ladder and is more challenging than mounting it on the back door.
STG.NET provides all the necessary cables, including 1.0 cables, connector ends, data cables, and V-direct ethernet cables to hook up the inverter. While you can purchase some of these cables yourself, STG.NET will supply them to save on stock. They will review your inventory list sent via email to service@stg.net to ensure you have everything needed.
The host emphasized the importance of carrying tools. Pass-through socket sets are particularly useful, and it’s crucial to have both metric and English (imperial) socket sets, as well as Allen wrenches. A number of RV modifications require Allen wrenches. One participant specifically mentioned needing a five metric Allen wrench for an extended door opener.
Route camera cables through a gap above the shower wall, next to the vanity mirror. Tuck the cable up behind the mirror and cabinet trim. Alternatively, run the cable through the cabinet, securing it with tape or cable conduits on the back side of the cabinets to conceal it.
The group primarily addresses modification questions related to RVs, particularly focusing on lithium batteries, solar inverters, and other modifications. They aim to research and answer questions, differentiating themselves from forums by focusing on repair advice and allowing discussion of businesses.
The foundation needs to be built before the kit arrives. It’s important to adhere to the provided drawings, and slight deviations can usually be accommodated with minor adjustments.
A 3D-printed adapter is used to mount a digital multi-control in place of the original control system. This adapter allows for a new control panel with a switch and knob to set the current limit, which is essential for inverter control. The process typically takes a couple of days and all parts are supplied.
In a system using a Victron inverter/charger and lithium batteries, the converter is typically disabled or removed entirely. The Victron inverter handles both inverting AC power and charging the batteries, eliminating the need for a separate converter. Removing the converter can be complex on some Travato models (specifically 'G' models) due to cable routing, and sometimes involves simply taping over the plug to prevent accidental connection.
A member successfully insulated their 2020.5 Travato KL NPF using Kilmat Sound Dampening, 3M Thinsulate, and 3M Spray Adhesive. They followed a van builder's guide (AVC RIG Insulation - https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=qVRg6HXTzlI). Temperature measurements showed a significant drop in temperature after application.
For the Promaster, a change every 3,000 to 4,000 miles is recommended. For the generator, change the oil after the first 20 hours, then every 150 hours. Using full synthetic oil and an Ultra Gauge can extend the interval.
Use the Mopar 349 AC oil filter. Earlier versions (AA, AB) have been linked to issues like 'dry firing' and camshaft damage. The AC version has a redesigned internal filter to prevent this.
Dicor sealant is a self-leveling lap sealant commonly used for roof applications and sealing items to the side of the van. It’s rubbery and sticky, allowing for movement between metal and plastic without breaking the seal. It’s applied over existing surfaces where screws pass through. Goo Gone can clean it up. It’s available in various colors, including black, white, gray, and tan. A non-leveling, stickier version is available for vertical surfaces, but the self-leveling version is often suitable with care.
You can use a tank fill port adapter (like the NashFuel model mentioned) to connect a hose and fill your fresh water tank from a donor tank. However, the process involves inverting the donor tank to move liquid propane and relies on pressure equalization. It won’t fully fill the tank unless the donor tank is larger. Be aware of potential compatibility issues with hose fittings (flare size) as one member experienced.
PVC flex connectors should be replaced with Flair-it fittings to prevent leaks. Panther RV is a potential source, but they are widely available.
To access the plumbing, you can evacuate the area under the bench seat and place a board to lift it up. Any open-air space is suitable as long as items are partitioned to avoid interference. The host mentioned a common modification involves a plastic bucket mounted under the seat cushion, accessible by removing the cushion and cover, or creating a shelf and lifting the entire board for access.
U-Haul is generally reliable, especially in larger cities. Loves truck stops and Pilot Flying J are also good choices. Lifts and forklifts, which use propane, often handle refills well. Be mindful of adapter availability, hose access, and potential parking angle limitations.
The Sea Level system uses capacitive sensor pads that provide a detailed, digital reading of tank levels, unlike simpler systems that only indicate whether a tank is empty or full. It divides the tank into multiple segments, allowing for precise monitoring of the fill level. This provides a much more accurate representation of tank status compared to standard systems.
Chassisfab spare tire racks, which bolt onto stock bike rack mounts, are a recommended alternative. Jay Herrmann landed gear products are also mentioned as quality options. The Summit brand Black River also has a spare tire mount that bolts in place of their bike rack.
There have been reports of Aluminess spare tire rack brackets snapping, which is a known issue to Aluminess and potentially a safety defect. The failures are more common on G model Travatos and appear to be due to weight and poor design. Aluminess has reportedly gone downhill in recent years.
PLA is easy to print but degrades with heat and UV exposure, making it unsuitable for outdoor RV parts. ABS is stronger but more difficult to print. PETG offers a good balance of strength, ease of printing, and UV resistance, making it a good choice for both interior and exterior RV modifications. It’s also cost-effective.
Epic Batteries currently has stable pricing and availability, although there were some price fluctuations and delays in orders back in early 2025.