Community Forums

Terry W · 06-03-2015, 04:40 PM

While changing my gen. oil and filters etc. I noticed what appears to be a filter in the drivers side wheel well. I'm thinking it's hydraulic, not sure. What is it and what does it require?

My next step is to change the 3 filters in the canister in the rear. I figure I might as well address this other thing while I'm at it.

I checked the dipstick on the canister and the fluid looks clear, not red like trans fluid. I read a couple posts about Dexron III or some other fluid. Will they mix if I go back with the Dex?

Thanks

wolfe10 · 06-03-2015, 05:16 PM

Terry,

Alpines used different hydraulic fluids over the years. My recommendation is to use what the owners manual for YOUR year and model recommend.

Terry W · 06-03-2015, 05:30 PM

Thanks, Any info on the little canister in the wheel well.

DrDaveMA · 06-03-2015, 06:15 PM

Up in that area is the filter for the diesel fuel for the HydroHot. On my 38' it is in the compartment with the propane tank, I am not sure where they put it on the 40', maybe some who owns one can help?

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Dave, Bobbi and Fenway

Rusty Bear · 06-03-2015, 08:34 PM

It's the Aqua Hot Filter. Same in all coaches.

Terry W · 06-03-2015, 09:13 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by Rusty Bear

It's the Aqua Hot Filter. Same in all coaches.

Does the whole thing get replaced, does the bottom screw off, how is it maintained /changed and where do you get one. Do I swap it out for a different type?

Thanks

Janet and Todd · 06-03-2015, 09:31 PM

Terry, if it's the Hydro Hot it is a spin on filter. Can you post a pic?

Terry W · 06-03-2015, 10:13 PM

Sorry, I can't post a pic, does resemble a filter, looks like a water separator, like a small clear plastic version of a big spin on fuel filter. There looks to be one or two valves on the bottom, maybe to drain off water?? I didn't really mess with it, I wanted to check on what it might be and how it might come apart? The location also kind puzzled me. Best I can do is text or e-mail a pic to somebody tomorrow. Maybe somebody will know what it is between now and then.

Rusty Bear · 06-03-2015, 10:27 PM

You should have your Hydro Hot serviced every year and they will change the filter at that time.

Terry W · 06-04-2015, 08:36 AM

Todd.

Did a little on line searching of filters in general and it looks like it may be a Racor fuel water separator, maybe marine. I'll get in there today if time permits and do a little more twisting and turning.

Like I said earlier, it appears to have a drain valve on the bottom of the canister. I'll keep ya posted if you're curious.

Rusty Bear,

I'm trying to catch up on all the maintenance that may not have been done by the PO. Figure I'll do what I can myself and leave the big stuff, brake fluid change etc., to the shop guys.

DrDave,

That's where it is so it makes sense that it would be the filter. Location doesn't make a lot of sense, but I guess that's part of the charm of an Alpine.

Janet and Todd · 06-04-2015, 08:55 AM

It's in the right location for the Hydro Hot filter. Probably something the PO installed. Not your typical filter installation for HH/AH.

Terry W · 06-04-2015, 03:49 PM

I got in there today with a mirror and checked out the filter. It is an Aqua Hot FLX-R12-TRA which is what is called for. The new ones on line look like a spin on type, open on top and sealed up on the bottom. I can't really tell from the pics on line.

The ne I have does look like a spin on with a bowl and drain on the bottom just like a big fuel filter.

Do all of the filters have the plastic bowl on the bottom? Are they a two piece filter?

Steve Ownby · 06-04-2015, 03:59 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by Terry W

I got in there today with a mirror and checked out the filter. It is an Aqua Hot FLX-R12-TRA which is what is called for. The new ones on line look like a spin on type, open on top and sealed up on the bottom. I can't really tell from the pics on line.

The ne I have does look like a spin on with a bowl and drain on the bottom just like a big fuel filter.

Do all of the filters have the plastic bowl on the bottom? Are they a two piece filter?

Terry,

Go here:

http://forum.rvhydronicheaterrepair.com/forum.php

This forum is run by Roger Burke who is a great asset to motorhomes who have AquaHot systems. Roger sells parts at a discount. He has the filter you need. The body of the filter spins onto the filter head and the plastic bowl on the bottom is re useable. The new filter comes with the necessary O rings for top & bottom.

Steve Ownby
Full time since '07

jerry davis · 06-04-2015, 06:28 PM

My 05 has the Hydro-Hot filter in that location also. It is a simple screw on with no water separator. I change it every year. As for the hydraulic canister in the engine compartment I switched to Chevron Rycon 46 from the original 15/40 engine oil in the hopes of better brake performance. Didn't make a hell of a lot of difference. I don't think the system much cares what fluid you run.