You Don't Have to Replace the Bad Part...EVERYTIME!!!

Today I'm in Queen Creek Arizona working on a 2007 Monaco Dynasty. The engine batteries keep going dead and I thought I'd try to explain a common issue I see on these Era Monaco. While the charge solenoid could be replaced too, it's good to know it can be serviced.
Link to troubleshooting video: • Advanced Monaco Diesel...
New isolator solenoid here:
amzn.to/3xnl6Om
thanks for watching

[@unpilot1]

Love when a TRUE mechanic shows his skill. FIX instead of replace is the mark of a true professional. A tip of the hat to you, my good sir!

[@sylvainr.399]

Couldn’t agree more!

[@AZExpert]

Thank you!

[@lauriepayseur5897]

Yes!!!! ABSOLUTELY!!! Love to see it!

[@NathanaelGreer]

It’s also the mark of unprofitably. It’s difficult to get people to pay for skill it’s very easy to get people to pay for parts

[@JEG6919]

This is THE RV channel to watch.

[@Premier-Media-Group]

As a fulltimer living in a National RV class A, I support this message.

[@MagaRickn]

Very cool !! Brings back memories of my younger years when us guys were so poor we use to do this to the starter solenoids on our old Chevys. Good instructional video!

[@AZExpert]

Save money on what you can

[@joeblow3939]

Nice job James, Back in the 60's my dad let me give my Yamaha 60 Mini Enduro to my friend, I got a new 125 . He changed the points in it thinking it would run better. When putting the points in, he put a fiber or plastic washer on the wrong side of the mounting screw not allowing it to ground. He and his brothers worked on that for the longest time then took it to the dealer. Only to discover the smallest oversight coasting a lot.👍👍 Cameras are priceless when working in uncharted territory.

[@AZExpert]

They sure are! Thanks for watching

[@tarustrader]

Real mechanic vs parts changer. Excellent work.

[@AZExpert]

Thanks!

[@RebeccaRaven]

I learn something new every time I watch a video!

[@AZExpert]

Thanks for watching! :)

[@bchlvrbob]

Thanks for the videos. Making RV life easier, more affordable.

[@mikeallensonntag]

That's awesome. James I can't tell you how much I've learned from your channel you have years of videos. I swear I'm like roof repair expert by now. I watch probably 2-4 videos from your channel a night and I still haven't seen them all. 😂

[@terry3193]

Hi James. I've said it before....something about your videos just makes me happy....in a good mood. I always learn something and your style is just so easy going. I have an '07 HR Navigator so pretty much same set up as the Dynasty. Now that I've watched this video, I'm quite certain that the next time I go out to the RV, this problem will come up. Seems to happen like that but at least, I'll be prepared. Please continue to make videos on this era of Monaco coaches as it always is so timely and helpful. Thanks for sharing!! BTW, I think it's time to see an update on your Beaver coach.

[@AZExpert]

Thanks for watching! :) There are some updates!

[@mikebagger6623]

Old Toyota starter solenoids look very similar, I have fixed lots of those just like you have done !!! well Done and thanks for showing us !!

[@AZExpert]

Thanks for watching! :)

[@divadyrdnal]

Wow, actually repaired a part instead of replaced! A normal RV shop probably would have changed EVERYTHING in the charging system, charged a small fortune after you waited for parts a few months. Great Job!

[@AZExpert]

They don't want to warranty a rebuilt part.

[@dewholdingsllc1050]

Thanks for the information and education. I appreciate your technical repair videos. Never know when it may come in handy

[@AZExpert]

Glad to help

[@allenfunstuff]

@@AZExpert question why a capacitor is not put a crossed that relay the way a condenser (cap) was in an old point ignition system to absorb the spark when the contacts open and reduce the wear and tear on the contact surfaces just curious 😎

[@LayloNewt]

Great job James and a really good tip. We so appreciate you sharing your knowledge.

[@AZExpert]

Thanks for watching D!

[@dinosaur6756]

$350-$400 for a magnet, a spring and a couple of copper nuts and bolts...hmmm. Not cool. Awesome job saving your client a few hundred bucks. Love these types of videos as well. Be careful out there in that 112 degree heat my friend. Stay hydraded and take a break and cool off in the clients motorcoach If you overheat. Take care James and as usual thanks for the great content.

[@AZExpert]

I'm pretty used to the heat but it still stinks.

[@badgerpa9]

Nice repair. That was worth rebuilding not replacing.

[@AZExpert]

Thanks!

[@carmencolon3520]

Thanks so much James. Watching most of your videos reminds me how serious is to own an rv. Better be ready to get my hands dirty at least with minor stuff.

[@AZExpert]

Definitely! Thanks for watching

[@cullenmiller8170]

Thanks for sharing. I fixed a lot of starters on heavy equipment and cranes in the field by taking the starter solenoid apart and cleaning the contacts. People burn the contacts a lot of time when they try to start something with a low battery and you hear the solenoid clicking.

[@AZExpert]

Thanks for watching!

[@leewelbanks6366]

With my 06 Beaver. Which has the exact same system in it ,I rebuild/ clean the relay a least once a year, I also carry a spare. The 1/2 main contact studs come out real easy to make cleaning a snap. Going down the road I can always tell when the relay needs cleaning because the house batteries will not be charging as seen on the computer screen.

[@AZExpert]

Good for you maintaining your rig like that

[@jamesdrew7315]

Another awesome video James!!! Very informative!!! You have great knowledge and skill!!!

[@AZExpert]

Thank you James!, Nice name!

[@jud2820]

As I am going to be buying a motorhome, which I am undoubtedly going to do the maintenance on having you share your expertise is really appreciated. You are pretty great, Thank you for sharing

[@AZExpert]

Thanks Jud!

[@23thebull]

I don't have an rv yet but this will help in the future , thanks James your the man 👍💯😎

[@AZExpert]

No problem 👍

[@dikd4019]

Polishing is key. Any scars or pits left will allow arcing and in a few months you’ll be doing this overhaul again. CRC is a perfect finish. Well done James.

[@AZExpert]

Thanks for watching! :)

[@garyhawthorne4599]

thanks for the video. I had that problem on my 2005 Monaco Diplomat. I replaced the bad part with a new one the builder said had silver instead of copper. That was over 10 years ago and I have not had any problems with it since. I also cleaned the old one like you did and now have a spare.

[@AZExpert]

Nice Job Gary!

[@kbVACArestatecarsnrvs]

Great knowledge shared once again. You never let us down. Even if some of us have sold our coach. ;) Until next time.

[@AZExpert]

Thanks for watching! :)

[@TinyHouseHomestead]

The joy of fixing something, ..... AND getting paid! PRICELESS! 😁👍✌

[@AZExpert]

Thanks for watching

[@FreedomIsntFree2023]

100% enjoyed watching and learning from this repair!! Thank you for posting this in the detail you did!

[@AZExpert]

You're welcome!

[@mildredlackey1938]

You are a very great Dr. at what you do, I think it’s so very good to know a few things about the R V s before we take of with them, thanks,

[@AZExpert]

Thanks for watching! :)

[@WisdomFromAshes]

Can't wait to try this myself. You made it look fun. Great job had explaining what you're doing.

[@jb1047]

I've used a product called DeoxIT for years with good success. It won't deal with pitting, but does wonder for corrosion/oxidation, leaving a protective coating to slow future oxidation. I started using on audio systems and now use it on almost any electrical connection from golf carts to home wiring.

[@AZExpert]

Thanks for watching! :)

[@johnsanders8058]

Nice work. Way to save the customer some $.

[@AZExpert]

Thanks 👍 I try

[@alexgorbunov827]

I have a system just like this on my 07 Mandalay. These Big Boy solenoids are used for the batt boost switch on the dash but also engage when charge voltage is in place via shore power. So in short, when connected to shore power and charging the house, these solenoids engage to charge chassis as well. What you mentioned about this not being the most reliable is quite interesting. I also have a multi stage battery charger mounted in the bay that is intended to plug in to 110 when on shore power to keep the chassis batts up. Which approach is better? Not sure, they both work. But you are right about the heat coming through the Big Boy when engaged. If I could figure out how to make it NOT engage on shore power, I would likely just plug the charger into 110.

[@markstench4470]

I've fixed, furnace ignitor, dryer ignitor, stove ignitor and way back when old ignition systems all by cleaning contact points . Thanks for sharing

[@AZExpert]

Thanks for sharing and Thanks for watching! :)

[@paulduggan2838]

Love your videos. I have a 2008 Dynasty and really appreciated this video.

[@AZExpert]

Glad it was helpful!

[@barzalou]

Unfortunetely, that's what age gives you on parts. What you showed us is your expertise on such an issue and for us, proof that you should not take electricity and current for granted. In my case, even if it's a common issue for you, I would have an expert like you handle this. Thanks for the heads up

[@AZExpert]

Thanks for watching!

[@scoobiedoo2517]

You the man Mr. Filon!!!

[@AZExpert]

Thanks Scoobie

[@dondavis1203]

I have changed mine twice over the years, 2006 HR Imperial. I saved the last one and will try your repair and keep as a spare. Thank you.

[@AZExpert]

Thanks Don!

[@Riker-eq2yv]

That device reminds of the old style GM starter solenoid. I use to remove the plunger and flip the contact over.

[@AZExpert]

Thanks for watching

[@michaela.aguilar2921]

Reminds me of a Chevy starter solenoid back in the day. I used to loosen that big nut and give the copper bolt a 180° turn.

[@DavidHBurkart]

...and once again, I learn something awesome and very practical from you James. Plus saving $400 will buy a half-tank of fuel for that rig!😳

[@AZExpert]

Fuel is a little ridiculous right now

[@stevehallman8285]

Thank you so much for your video's , i just did what you did save me 350$ for part!

[@scottsmith3165]

Outstanding information, as usual!

[@AZExpert]

Glad you think so!

[@bobmariano3731]

You’re the man James ! ! 👍👍👍👍⚾️

[@CozyLivingMachine]

Another fantastic video. I really thought those were much more complicated than they are!

[@AZExpert]

Thanks for watching!

[@shnobi24]

Never seen anyone fix those things. Well done.

[@AZExpert]

Thanks for watching

[@lindanadaud9698]

Great video James.

[@AZExpert]

Thanks for watching Linda

[@Yukonjackman1]

Reminded me I need to do my truck starter lol

[@AZExpert]

You're welcome! lol

[@mjbjw77]

Fantastic work

[@AZExpert]

Thanks Mike

[@jaimelopez3991]

Great video!! I will see if it works in my unit ( Fleetwood Revolution) after 4 months in storage!!

[@mauricerichard3611]

Ya have an amazing mind ... great video !!

[@AZExpert]

Thanks Maurice!

[@stephenlevan6676]

Well done!

[@AZExpert]

Thanks Stephen

[@lorrieleaver2447]

You are a star 💫 James and teaching the world that repairs are possible and you don’t always have to pay $100s or $1000s to have something fixed. It sounds to me like you could invent a better piece of equipment that is more reliable and less dangerous for a potential fire 🔥 or breakdown.

[@AZExpert]

LOL thanks for the confidence Lorrie

[@timk.9827]

Another great job and explanation how the big boy, works James, Thanks!

[@AZExpert]

Thanks for watching

[@philw7174]

Great video. Thanks James. Happy trails!

[@AZExpert]

Thanks Phil

[@suecrets5169]

Nice that a great fix. 400 is 400 for fuel which helps today

[@AZExpert]

Thanks for watching! :)

[@mrmudstud5980]

Excellent information and details👍, Job Well Done......

[@AZExpert]

Many many thanks

[@caryrodriguez7040]

very informative video. Thank you sir!!!

[@santiagojimenez8912]

I really like your videos I can learn a lot of that thank you so much for sharing those videos because I have a diesel pusher is a Fleetwood revolution 40 foot with a Cummins engine I was watching the video when you was service the generator how easy that is to change the oil in the filters you can save a lot of money

[@AZExpert]

Awesome, Glad to help

[@Chief351L]

From a kid that grew up in the early 70's and having to learn from my Dad fixing vehicles and other things around the house without instantly running out and buying NEW, this was refreshing to see! I've successfully saved some parts like this as well and it was well worth it because they weren't made in CHINA so they could handle a little rebuilding-elbow-grease. One thing I'd like to know about is, Where did you find that really heavy-duty storage box?! It looks like it's made of either fiberglass or some sort of mesh and would certainly outlive the POS plastic ones that I have to use... Very Worthwhile video to watch

[@AZExpert]

Thanks for watching! :)

[@tree_monkey3120xp]

Thanks for sharing James great job getting them fixed up!

[@AZExpert]

Thanks Jose

[@dirtroadsailing6418]

This was a good video. I'm pretty sure that my National Tradewinds has a similar system on it.

[@AZExpert]

Thanks for watching!

[@papabapyro8169]

Thanks another great video. Cheers

[@AZExpert]

Glad you enjoyed it

[@wannabetraveler6595]

I wish that I'd had your experience in doing this. You make it look easy. My gasser looks prehistoric to these monsters. Still want one, though.

[@AZExpert]

They are massive for sure

[@privateparty4900]

That's funny. I just did this a few weeks ago. I applied new dielectric grease to my contacts... We'll see if that was a good idea or not but it looks like they had it on there originally.

[@rlewis7672]

Thank you for all of the informative and inspirational videos that you post. We just purchased a 2008 Monaco Dynasty and the house batteries were not charging. We took it apart and it defanitly was corroded . Put it back together and it works but now watching the video back again I noticed yours has a spring between the washer and the cap. Ours did not have a spring. So do i need to locate the proper size spring and install. Seems like it would always be making contact without the spring. Thank you again for all your wisdom.

[@TheDeadwood11]

Try Ketchup on copper. Coat an let it sit for a bit then wipe clean. Ketchup packets are easy free an everywhere. I also think a dielectric grease would prevent the corrosion from repeating.

[@AZExpert]

Yeah I don't really want to put ketchup inside this. That's better suited for something you eat off of

[@leonardh8269]

Be carful in the heat....stay cool

[@AZExpert]

I'm used to it but it still sucks

[@bigjeep2195]

Is anyone really surprised that James can fix this???? What can James not fix?

[@AZExpert]

LOL Thank you for the compliment

[@dianedrenk6558]

Really enjoyed the video..great job!!!!!

[@AZExpert]

Glad you enjoyed it!

[@danmadden1080]

Thanks for the video !

[@AZExpert]

Thanks for watching

[@loydalexander154]

You are the man what did you do in your other life 😊

[@scottgiven9201]

Very informative, thank you for sharing

[@AZExpert]

Glad it was helpful!

[@rustyhurdis847]

thank you I w ill check mine. but on my 2003 monaco sig we changed it when we first bought it in Feb 2020. but the chassis batteries still do not charge.

[@stanleyflory6702]

I have been meaning to do this hack on my 96 Monaco, for quite awhile now, but life gets in the way, and a small battery maintainer installed did the same thing keeping the chassis battery charged! Thanks for showing how simple and easy this really is! And truth be told, probably took the same amount of time to do either of the hacks! Love your channel, James! Thanks!

[@AZExpert]

Thanks for watching Stanley!

[@craigjohnson3603]

Good video, I had an old Winnie and seemed to be always cleaning electrical connections until I learned about using vinegar and q tips on the green crusties followed by a rinse and dielectric grease. I went to tech school for marine motorsports and my boss at a marine services co. told me to take the grease home and was irate. He liked all the return business. What do you think?

[@MudDuck]

My 98 HR endeavor doesnt seem to have one of these - there is a b.i.r.d. that I replaced and a solenoud, but my charger doesnt charge the start batts when on shore power. Any thoughts? great video. Made me start thinking about it again.

[@saltyd2137]

I love your videos. I'm glad to see that you are cheap like I am Thanks for showing how to repair it instead of just throwing on a new one. People laugh at me because I like to rebuild rather than replace the item. Thx!!!!

[@glenscheible]

You the Man for sure. Ever come to central texas?

[@AZExpert]

I've been through there several times on road trips, it's mostly west Texas I avoid

[@patrickjohnson7801]

I think the plastic part is called bakelite. Love the video, just got a little tick tacky

[@AZExpert]

Bakelite is definitely a type of early plastic

[@earlribaudo4807]

Why did it arc when you installed it, was it just residual charge? Another great video Charles, I haven't done that much electrical over the years, enough to get by, but sure do learn a lot from watching you videos. Thanks so much for your knowledge.

[@AZExpert]

It's James :) and Thank you

[@earlribaudo4807]

Sorry, I knew it is James. Guess my brain went to sleep. lol, Don't even know a Charles, maybe I do, so many u tube videos. Anyway, love yours JAMES.

[@billtorrence8102]

informative.... thankyou

[@AZExpert]

Thanks for watching! :)

[@dmtudder]

Don’t you recommend dielectric grease inside during reassembly ? Would that reduce the corrosion ?

[@mikek5633]

I have used the same "service" to fix starter solenoids as well. Very similar setup.

[@AZExpert]

Thanks for watching

[@kb6lcw99]

Always like what you share

[@AZExpert]

thanks!

[@Thesaltymedic36]

Nice job. Easy rebuild. No dielectric grease for that?

[@OffGridAussiePrepper]

Good work 99

[@AZExpert]

Thanks for watching! :)

[@OffGridAussiePrepper]

@@AZExpert did u get the "99" reference?

[@dodgeguyz]

From seeing all the green I’m guessing with it being mounted like it is that it’s getting water in their, I wonder if it were mounted sideways if it would last longer, or maybe drill a small hole to let it vent out any moisture? Otherwise excellent work!

[@tedshaw4567]

Thank you for the info

[@AZExpert]

Thanks for watching! :)

[@garymacneil2484]

great video, i have a question. my chassis batteries to start the engine have deep cycle stickers on them, did not think you could use deep cycle for starting purposes, what your thoughts?, thanks Gary

[@michaelfasciani537]

what a great video!

[@AZExpert]

Thanks for watching! :)

[@cliffwendy3765]

Could you use dielectric grease to inhibit corrosion inside for the plunger contacts?

[@fcbrants]

Thanks James!! I sent you an email about an inspection, please take a look when you have a minute.

[@AZExpert]

I'll do my best

[@friendlyman9032]

This is a great video.

[@AZExpert]

Glad you enjoyed it

[@creekbottomtradingco.4556]

Would it be helpful to add some dielectric grease inside?

[@ThePeopleVerse]

Very interesting....

[@AZExpert]

Thanks for watching! :)

[@richoverton493]

For a moment there I thought we were witnessing a infamous 10mm socket doing its natural thing. It ended up being a 3/8. 😅

[@ImpalamansGarage]

Thinking that coating the insides with an electrical anti-oxidant would be good as well.

[@AZExpert]

Thanks for watching!

[@timaz1066]

I have a 2000 Dynasty without the tag but two slides. Mine is a much simpler system and it just shows why all the Monaco guys on the forms say these things are snowflakes because none of them are the same, even the same year and same model. Thank you for the video.

[@AZExpert]

Thanks for watching!

[@drpatferrydc3853]

WOULD PUTTING DI- ELECTRIC GREESE ON ALL THOSE CONTACTS HELP IT FROM CORRODING?

[@rickbaker3400]

Need your expert help. I need to replace a Trik-L-Start module in my 2008 Itasca Ellipse and I cannot find a smart replacement for my AGM BATTERIES. Would you please let me know your recondition the manufacturer LCL is no longer in business.

[@AZExpert]

The echo charger from xantrex works, but I think the simple 120vac battery tenders are the easiest way to go.

[@rickbaker3400]

@@AZExpert what’s your thoughts about Victron Energy Orion-Tr Smart 12/12-Volt 18 amp 220-Watt DC-DC Charger?