I was talking with the owner of a 2009 Allegro Bus this morning and I asked him how he liked the MCD Shades in his Bus. I was surprised at this answer. He said they really do not like them because the remotes frequently un-program themselves and they burn through a lot of batteries.
He did, however, like the front windshield shade because it is connected to switches on his console. Note: MCD will not install shades over the windshield without remote controls.
Thought I'd pass this along in case anyone is considering MCD shades and can't decide if they want remote controls. We opted for old-fashioned pull down shades, and often congratulate ourselves on making the switch to MCD shades.
We just had the cockpit shades installed at MCD in December and we do not have the remotes. What MCD won't do is install anything other than power shades in the cockpit. We have some switches installed on the dash passenger side. We want to get MCD shades on the other windows eventually, but will opt for the pull down on those.
We also have rocker switches, not remotes. Steve installed ours in the upper passenger cabinet where the awning switch/remote is. The issue with the windshield shades is that they have to be interlocked with the ignition so the night (opaque) shade can't come down while driving. That's why those have to be electric. It's a safety concern.
Our side shades are manual pull-down as well. Much more affordable than the cost of 2 motors per window.
Michelle
Most interesting subject as I also have the one blind across the windshield, electric operated with the rocket switch on side console. Also have the electric blind at the entrance door also with the rocket switch on console, but they are not interlocked with the ignition/key switch, as they are also used for sun shade control, both front and side door as I travel 99% of the time alone and can not reach the door shade ;D. Besides I am spoiled and like the ability of controlling the blinds as I drive happily down the road.
What is a MCD shade?
Gayland,
To find out more about MCD, go to the link below:
MCD Innovations (http://www.mcdinnovations.com/)
My electric shades are not interlocked either... No issues with it and I use it as a sun visor too.
We love our new MCD blinds.
Jim and Sandy,
Welcome to the ForeForums. You have just made on of the better interior upgrades to your coach. Come back and tell us more about your new motorhome.