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dreamer · 07-12-2020, 05:50 AM

I'm having problems with my livingroom - kitchen slide out, power patio awning and generator start. I believe all of these items are operated by 12 volt which seems to be weak. Everywhere I check the voltage is 13+, and the EMS reads 13+. I haven't been able to check the voltage under operation since I'm working alone. I'm wondering if there is a common connection between these items which would cause me problems. I have wiring diagrams but I'm not too literate in reading them. Any help is appreciated, I'm tired of having to help the slide out in with a wrench. Oh, I've replaced the slide out motor yesterday thinking maybe that could be the problem but it wasn't. Thanks, Max.

Dsallach · 07-12-2020, 06:25 AM

Have you checked your batteries? You can have voltage with no amperage. I.e. a 13v reading that drops to 9v the minute an amperage draw is put on it. I would check the water levels in the batteries and then load test each one. Also check for a bad ground cable.
Have you tried connecting the house and coach batteries together using the dash switch?

-Gramps- · 07-12-2020, 07:01 AM

Weak house batteries, you didn't say if on shore power or not.

vito.a · 07-12-2020, 01:50 PM

I agree, check both house/chassis batteries and cables. Make sure you check the battery ground cable for corrosion on both ends.
Also try the slide out and awning with the generator running.

YC1 · 07-14-2020, 06:22 PM

If weak house batteries, try propping your emergency start button on or just use one large jumper cable between the banks of battery positives.

You need to be very careful with a jumper cable. Take voltage measurements to be sure you are looking at 12 volts on each bank before combining them that way.

In some cases to diagnose a problem alone you have to dig into the wiring right near the motor and run your wire to your meter and then run the motor.

Seeing what the voltage is while under load as mentioned is an absolute must without just guessing.

You can use that pair of wires to test the voltage at the batteries while you activate the slide switch.

Without a (gopher), you have to get creative.