Community Forums

ProjectPro · 08-16-2016, 06:46 PM

I need to replace the slide-out switch for the passenger side front slide-out. This switch is mounted in the control panel above the entryway stairs, and is on the bottom right corner of the attached picture.

The switch has some movement to it and feels like it might be one of the pop-out type switches that are commonly used in Phaetons, especially on light switches. Does anyone know if I can just pop it out, or do I need to remove the six screws to get at it?

Anyone else have one of these fail? I knew it was getting to be a problem because for a while I have had to push it just right to get the slide to extend. This trip it wouldn't extend regardless of how I fiddled with it. I haven't had any problem retracting the slide, so I guess it could have been worse. I was surprised at how livable the Phaeton was without the one slide. The main problem we encountered was getting to stuff that was stored in one of the cabinets.

As always, thanks to all for the hand-holding and furthering my RV education.

BFlinn181 · 08-16-2016, 10:34 PM

I'd shut off battery power and remove the panel from the wall. The switch most likely has clips holding it in place. It might come out the front, but it would be easier to look behind and depress the clips to facilitate removal. Most likely the switch has a multi-contact plug on the back, mark it to know top and bottom before removing. If wires are individually plugged in on the switch, again label everything and take a picture or make a diagram.

Once the switch is out, you should find identifying brand or numbers to find a replacement. Some helpful links:

Carling number explanation and switch terms

Carling switches

E-Switches

Amazon Rocker Switches

Also Ebay has many switches listed.

ProjectPro · 08-20-2016, 12:36 PM

Thanks, BFlinn. The switch was easy to removed with the panel pulled out. Just to be sure, I swapped the left and right side switches, and the problem remained on the passenger's side. Knowing that the switch was OK, I looked for the reversing board. The reversing boards for both sides are in the fuse compartment under the driver's window. When I saw the board I identified the problem right away. The blue wire from the control switch is broken off right at the connector.

I guess I'll have to order a new harness from Tiffin. I wish I could replace individual contacts in a connector.

Here's a picture of the reversing board and the broken wire.

BFlinn181 · 08-20-2016, 01:02 PM

If you remove the connector from the board, place it on a white background, or since the plug is white maybe a contrasting color. Take a photo of it and do a Google image search for the connector. Very possibly a new end could be soldered on the wire and inserted in the plug you have. I don't know if Radio Shack would have one, but other electronic shops certainly might. A Google Image search is a good way to find a source.

ProjectPro · 08-20-2016, 04:48 PM

Good idea. I don't know if there are any Radio Shack stores left around here, but we do have a very good electronics supply specialty store. I think I'll remove the connector and take it in to them. It might be another opportunity to buy a tool that I didn't know I needed!

For anyone who might happen across this thread in the future, the switch is a McGill 0852-0115, selling for about $10 on eBay on the date of this post.

ProjectPro · 08-24-2016, 12:41 PM

Went to the electronics shop and they sold me an AMP 305183 extraction tool (pictured below) and a pack of 0.084" Russ B5110 female pins. It took me a couple of tries to get the hang of it, but I replaced the bad contact and the slides are working fine now. Sure beats buying a new harness and splicing it in.