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Everything posted by Ronbrink
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Epoc Lithium "Keep-It-Simple" Upgrade Advice
Ronbrink replied to tallmandan's topic in Ollie Modifications
I installed a 460Ah LFP battery bank (SOB) and the ATS @jd1923 mentioned to enable use of my Xantrex Freedom XC 2000W inverter to run the former DPll 11K; a three hour run time would drop the SOC to 50%. I have since replaced the DPll with an Atmos 4.4 15K, but have not had much experience regarding inverter run times, but hopeful the higher efficiency of the upgrade will provide an increase. -
That is my practice; the sewer part, not the vomiting!
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I just saw this fairly recent YT video by The Fit RV, wherein SDG installs an Atmos 4.4 in their EKKO Transit. Not tech savvy, so if interested do a search for this:
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With the Atmos, the foam strip supplied to support/level the aft is the same density as that used around the roof cutout, which supports the weight of the unit.
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The landing appears to be bonded and sealed around the edges based on review of photos and thus, probably added as support for the former DPll on my year model Oliver and 11K unit. If you’re thinking if necessary for an Atmos install, likely not due to success of @rideadeuce’s SDG install wherein there was no such landing and the supplied foam adequately provided aft support. I only know that OTT uses a similar landing for the upgraded Truma installs, perhaps someone else can confirm if a landing is added on newer models with the standard DPll.
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My year model Oliver had a fiberglass landing that supported the aft of the former Dometic Penguin ll (11K), whereas in @rideadeuce’s instance (DP ll 13.5K) there was no such support in his year model. In his install the “supplied foam” you reference was installed in accordance with the installation instructions provided. Said foam installed in like manner in my instance would not make contact with the roof and offer support due to relief of the landing and thus, it was halved and positioned on each side as added support. Regarding OTT’s retrofit of the Truma Aventa on earlier models to replace a Dometic and new models ordered with the Aventa upgrade option, a fiberglass landing was specifically designed for that unit.
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HOW TO: VIP 3000 Electric Stabilizer Jack Service
Ronbrink replied to John E Davies's topic in Mechanical & Technical Tips
To address weBoost comments by you, @Galileoand @Mike and Carol: I’ve been practicing this procedure a few years and find it to be very useful information. I’ve even been able to get service in a park known to have very limited to ‘No Cell Service’! Having my weBoost antenna mounted atop a 16’ fiberglass flagpole helps, as well! Davis Mountains State Park, West Texas. -
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True that, but not very much! Added benefit of the on-board air pump: each time the ignition is turned ON a few seconds of inflation is initiated to bring the bags up to the set pressure. Regardless of whether the vehicle is a daily driver or infrequently used, when the ignition is engaged the lost pressure is immediately restored. However, if wired to a constant 12V circuit and left unattended for a period of time the starter battery will be drained and possibly damaged in time. No bueno!
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This GMC Savana 2500 conversion van owner is getting ready to have Bilstein 4600’s installed front and rear. I wished the 5100 Series was offered for my make and model. I plan to have a shop install the front shocks due to the heavy coil springs, given a quote of $180; I can manage the rear installs.
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Excellent points! I still carry a small generator and at times two, especially when in hurricane evacuation mode! Both are dual fuel models and mostly run on propane; the smaller DuroMax XP2200EH exclusively on propane, the larger Westinghouse iGen4500DF on gasoline, as needed during said evacs for multi-day continuous runs, otherwise propane when camping. Since my TV change from a pickup truck to a cargo van, I no longer carry the 4500 routinely as before 1) the 2200 meets my needs to run the air conditioner during nights when needed, 2) it was primarily a backup when leisure traveling/camping, but no longer considered a necessity, 3) it occupies space, adds weight and has a slight smell of gasoline, which wasn’t a problem in the truck bed, but now is since the van’s cargo bay is within, and 4) there’s comfort in knowing I can always run the Atmos on inverter as a backup for a/c!
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I installed an Air Lift system on both my former Chevy Silverado 1500 4x4 and current GMC Savana 2500 TVs for the primary purpose of reducing squat when fully loaded and trailering. The system will also compensate for uneven weight distribution in the TV cargo bay from side-to-side. The remote control for the onboard air pump is a great feature for ease of adjustment, based on situational needs; in general, 25psi for daily driving and 35psi when trailering with the Silverado. I will determine like settings for the newer Savana with more use. The trailering psi provides for the optimum ball height specified by Oliver, 23.5” as I recall. It is important to wire these systems to operate only in the keyed ignition ON position, since pressures are affected by temperature variances and minor seepage overtime; otherwise the starter battery could be compromised! As a bonus to this system, when dumping the waste tanks the front of the Oliver can be lifted to speedup the process and ensure a complete dump. There have been times when this is necessary due to poorly designed dump stations or an awkward approach. It is a fact that airbags will not increase vehicle load or tow capacities, but based on my experiences they do improve overall handling, especially when towing. That said, I never felt the need for the Anderson WDH. You can pan below to view my post titled ‘2019 GMC Savana 2500 Cargo Van’ and dated October 24, 2024, wherein there is some discussion on the Air Lift install.
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I installed GasStop valves on each tank, which has an integral purging feature. Also great for use with gas grills, fire pits, etc., when auxiliary lines are connected to a spare tank or directly to one of the Oliver tanks
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Yeah, opening the cylinder valve too fast can trigger a safety feature inside the tank; specifically an ‘excess flow valve’, at least as best I understand it.
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Houghton Retrofit Process & Questions
Ronbrink replied to Geronimo John's topic in Mechanical & Technical Tips
I installed a Dreiha Atmos 4.4 from SDG; 15K AC/12K Heat 120V. I featured my self-install in a post in Ollie Modifications titled ‘Dreiha Atmos 4.4 Home Install’, September 18, 2024. Also checkout @rideadeuce’s install and post titled ‘Dreiha Atmos 4.4 Installed by SDG’, July 17, 2024. -
If a tank valve is opened too quickly the flow of gas can be shut down. Turn the valve slowly at first, but only enough for gas to begin to flow; then wait several seconds before turning the valve fully open. It is always good practice to purge the lines as @Rolind suggests in the manner described.
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You are not alone; some owners bothered more than others, but your assessment is spot on!
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Upgraded the 30 lb LP tanks to Aluminum with custom base
Ronbrink replied to rideadeuce's topic in Ollie Modifications
To your point, I weave a metal cable through the tank handles as further deterrent/securement; the looped ends are on the center threaded stock. -
That is my understanding, as well. Unfortunately my remote is not the bluetooth model and failed efforts to restore communication manually leaves it useless for the On/Off function. I resort to leaving the inverter button in the On position full time without further issue.
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The butane cartridges last a long time, so not a problem with me. I only use my lanterns as a light source, as needed, and not when combating biting pests; my headlights serve me better. As a cost saving measure I reuse the pads, they last a long time by recharging with a few drops of Pyrethrin Garden Insect Spray Concentrate; refresh as needed. I find a Thermacell effective within the 10’ radius they claim to protect, that area is extended with multiple, strategically placed units. Positioning them upwind increases their effectiveness. If dead calm, I set up a fan to help distribute the scent. I too am a ‘mosquito magnet’, has something to do with my O+ blood type! I spent most of my professional life out-of-doors in very harsh environments, including marshes, wetlands, bottomland hardwood forests, inland and coastal waters, and rainforests of Brazil for extensive periods of time both days and nights with a Thermacell strapped to my waist or backpack, they work!
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The issue I read about most pertains to a pedestal outlet found to be wired incorrectly. This could cause damage to the RV power cable and MORE! Many owners routinely verify with a tester before plugging in, whether 30A or 50A. I carry a 50A to 30A power cord adapter for use if the 30A outlet fails a test and have to resort to the 50A outlet to connect shore power to the Oliver; proved useful on two occasions! Also, there may be times when a CG only has available sites with 50A service; once again said adapter was put to good use.
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Welcome fellow Aggie!
