Plasma Display (TV)

[Donna H.]

We have a 2003 36'Alpine Coach w/37" Plasma Display TV. Model #TH-37PWD4. This unit has now "bit-the-dust"! We've spent hrs.talking w/Panasonic & WRV. This is an "Induatrial" model with a life exp. of maybe 2yrs! We've received no help from either firms other that "sorry", there is nothing that can be done other than have it repaired (at our expense) to the tune of over $1,200. or replace it with a newer model!! The invoice on the unit was over $6,000.! Has anyone else had simular problems? If not, just wait! Another problem, only special techs can work on this unit. Our closest tech is 2+hrs. drive and we have to take the unit out ourselves!! Yes, I'm bitter! Wouldn't you be? DonnaH

[Donna H.]

We have a 2003 36'Alpine Coach w/37" Plasma Display TV. Model #TH-37PWD4. This unit has now "bit-the-dust"! We've spent hrs.talking w/Panasonic & WRV. This is an "Induatrial" model with a life exp. of maybe 2yrs! We've received no help from either firms other that "sorry", there is nothing that can be done other than have it repaired (at our expense) to the tune of over $1,200. or replace it with a newer model!! The invoice on the unit was over $6,000.! Has anyone else had simular problems? If not, just wait! Another problem, only special techs can work on this unit. Our closest tech is 2+hrs. drive and we have to take the unit out ourselves!! Yes, I'm bitter! Wouldn't you be? DonnaH

[EngineerMike]

Donna,
Ouch! You have my sympathies, for sure.
What about the TV makes it an "Industrial" model, and why do you say it has a life expectancy of ~2 years? Is there literature or some other data besides the failure that gives you that idea?
My understanding of the current LCD tv's being installed is that they are HDTV units, but I guess I don't know what warranty they come with and how you'd deal w/it if you had a failure. Mike

[alpinerver]

Hi Donna
Your tv is a plasma, which I understand is good for about 20,000 hrs and then you throw away. The new LCDs have over twice the life expectancy and are not affected by altitude like the plasmas. I would contact the manufacture about your problem, and if no results send a letter to Highways and FMCA if your a member. They got some pretty spectacular results. Best of Luck Larry

[EngineerMike]

If alpinerver is accurate, and assuming early '02 delivery of your '03, that's 20,000 hours divided by 1095 days (3 years x 365) or 18.5 hours/day, every day since new, that you've been watching TV. Or else you watched a bit less, and the thing is defective.

[shelland]

One of the issues with plasma TVs has always been reliability. They are notorious for a short life span. They are not only susceptible to high altitude but they are also not very rugged. Some manufacturers can't believe they are being installed in an RV environment. LCDs are a much different technology, more durable and have a history of excellent lifespan. LCD's primary drawback has been the picture and viewing angle quality both of which have improved substantially in recent years. Good luck on getting your unit fixed. I hope someone will behind a $6K unit!

[Mike & Nancy]

Donna

We have an 04 36MDDS built in March of 03 with 37 Plasma TV....So far no problems, but we have heard the life expectancy is not very long. Considering the amount paid for the Plasma you would think Panosonic with pressure from WRV would give some help. Especially if they are only lasting 2 years. What was the TV doing before it went out???

Mike

[Donna H.]

Reason I said it has a life expectancy of 2years is that's what a Panasonic Service Tech. told me. We're taking the unit out of the Coach and taking it to an Industrial Service Tech. tomorrow (Wed). (2 hr drive) Will keep you all posted. Thanks.

We took delivery of our coach on 5/16/03!

We were watching TV at the time it failed - had no problems prior.

I've contacted WRV and Panasonic, if we don't get anywhere there I'll contact Highway and FMCA. Thanks for the suggestion. DonnaH.

[Basil Shannon]

I have had this TV in my 03 for 2 ½ years now with no problems. Picture good at sea level and above 10,000 ft. LOVE IT! By the way, this was NEVER a $6000 item. MSRP $ 3373.74
But, what are the alternatives if and when mine does die? I looked on the internet and found:

New TH-37PWD4 $3179.99 (MSRP $ 3373.74)
http://www.dealtime.com/xPC-Panasonic_TH_37PWD4

Later model TH-37PWD5 $1399 (MSRP: $ 3599.99)
http://www.pricemad.com/productdetai...productid=1399

Later model TH-37PWD6 $1258 (MSRP: $ 2999.99)
http://www.pricemad.com/productdetai...productid=2178

Later model TH-37PWD7UY $1499.99
http://www.tigerdirect.com/applicati...Tab=2&NoMapp=0

I don't know why the later models are so much cheaper. Specs look the same but,this will require more research. Mounting provisions the same? Need to find out.

Basil Shannon