Community Forums

KayLarGo · 10-27-2007, 06:23 PM

I looked at my handle more closely today and I see the imprint of the old upper housing and see that they too had to change from the old style(size) to the new one. Looks good now but it probable didn't convert easily.

Larry

Oemtech · 10-28-2007, 03:15 AM

It took me about 1.5 hours to R&R the handle. But, once you have done one I am sure I could do next one in about 30 mins.

Ronnie Bledsoe 2006 Dutchstar 43' · 10-28-2007, 07:08 AM

WELL! I join the club. I had my unit in the shop for some work and they called and said the tech had broken the pull handle. The service center replaced with the new style handle...still made of acrylic. I talked to the guy at a plastic shop who will make me an opaque plastiv handle for $25. He said the plastic will have more give and not be as fragile. I'm thinking seriously about having make me a couple. It seems that the acrylic will break eventually. Does anyone have ideas?

Ed-Deb · 10-28-2007, 07:09 AM

<BLOCKQUOTE class="ip-ubbcode-quote"><div class="ip-ubbcode-quote-title">quote:</div><div class="ip-ubbcode-quote-content">Originally posted by oemtech:
Yes, the wiring is in the top portion of the handle as it was in the original.

Some of the viewers may wonder why I am posting this in the first place. I guess it is the fact that many OEM's get it right 90+% but fail so miserably on the last 10% of the business. It's that last 10% the really counts.... It's called service after the sale. It only took the auto industry 50 years to figure it out. </div></BLOCKQUOTE>

Thanks Dale.

So if I take off the top portion I should be able to access the light to replace it, I think!?!??

Ed

Oemtech · 10-28-2007, 10:14 AM

This my 3rd grab handle, the first 2 were under warranty. The 2nd one only lasted about 18 months. When the tech replaced the handle the 2nd time he commented that this was a common occurrence. The parts gal also commented that they keep a number of them in stock at all times. You would think that Newmar would fix the PROBLEM instead of the SYMPTOM.

OBTW - You must change every part of the handle... wiring, bracket, bulb, gaskets, mounts, handle and screws.

Oemtech · 10-29-2007, 11:17 AM

I just hate the taste of my shoe (foot in mouth problem). I owe Newmar a great big APOLOGY

as I just received a check for the cost of the new grab handle. I guess they really do care!

Just a side note.... Had the grab handle broke after say 2 years I would not have thought much about it. But this was my 3rd one in 3 years.

"007" · 10-29-2007, 11:27 AM

Surprise-Surprise

KayLarGo · 10-29-2007, 01:39 PM

This summer, just before we got to the National rally in Branson we stopped in Broken Arrow OK for some air conditioning service. Talked to the Newmar dealer and he sent me to the (workhorse - Chev) dealer to charge with R-134 and test. He promptly gave a bill for $258.00. I call Newmar and they said send us a letter and the bill and we will review it. Just 2 weeks ago a check was received in the mail for the full amount. THEY DO CARE!.

Phelpo · 11-18-2008, 06:24 AM

same thing happened to me. Callled North Trail
said $100 bucks and you'll have to drill new holes. Said thanks but no thanks. Called local plastic retailer, had the size in stock
for $14, cut to size then heated in boiling water for 5 minutes and bent it to the shape needed. Looks fine, no Newmar but what the heck.

Phelpo

CSX4350 · 11-20-2008, 04:13 PM

Personally, I think the "NEWMAR" engraving is the problem, it weakens the acrylic and causes the cracks. I have looked at tons of them and the cracks always emminate from the engraving.

While in Nappanee this summer I complained about mine and it was replaced under warranty. They replaced it with a solid stainless handle, so I lost my light up handle. At least someone won't grab the handle, have it break off and they fall backward out the door, sueing me in the process.

Phelpo · 11-21-2008, 05:02 AM

hey I still have about six feet of round plastic, if someone needs one replaced, send it to me and I'll make one for you.

Cost is mailing back and forth.

Phelpo

mercerc44 · 11-25-2008, 09:00 AM

Ordered a replacement from RV Surplus online. About $20. Exact same shape as my Newmar one. Haven't changed yet, but understand a little adjustment to the ends is all that is needed.