Unique opportunity to purchase BRAND NEW REPLACEMENT PLUNGERS FOR HWH SOLENOID VALVES!
Grab a cup of coffee, pull up a chair, and I will provide the background story and the details.
As you may know, I recently rebuilt the front HWH 6-pack manifold on my coach. See the complete story here:
Working On My Six Pack (http://www.foreforums.com/index.php?topic=27491.0)
As detailed in my post, the required O-rings are easy to find, but I could not locate a source for exact replacement plungers. This critical part is essential to a complete rebuild, yet the HWH factory refuses to sell them as a separate part. Instead, they want you to buy 6 complete valve assemblies (HWH RAP1940), which would be very expensive! My search for a more reasonable alternative turned up two possibilities.
First, our own member Jim McNeece discovered (3 years ago) a similar, but not identical, plunger from another manufacturer:
Possible HWH Solenoid Replacement Plungers (http://www.foreforums.com/index.php?topic=19984.msg143512#msg143512)
I recently contacted this source, and they are currently asking $20 each, for just the plunger, plus shipping..
The second possibility I found was much more promising. I stumbled on a thread on another motorhome owner forum, describing how the poster had found a enterprising solution to the search for HWH plungers. I am providing a link to that post, so you can read his story. I will also add full-size copies of his photos below, since as a "guest" you will not be allowed to expand his photos.
HWH RAP1940 6 Pack Air Solenoids Rebuild Kits (http://newellgurus.com/showthread.php?tid=2467)
I contacted the poster, Tom McCloud (forum name: encantotom), who is a founding member and administrator of the forum. I asked if he was ever going to repeat his group purchase, and if he might consider opening the group buy to members of our forum. After a series of emails, I received some great news! Due to popular demand, he is going to offer his forum another chance to purchase plungers, and he will graciously expand the offer to include our members!
Here is how it will work. I will function as our (self appointed) forum representative, and collect the requests for kits. I will tell Tom how many kits (in total) our members want to order. He will place the order with the factory for the total number of plungers requested by both forums. When he gets the parts, he will put together the kits, exactly as described in his post (link above). He will put all the kits for our forum in one box, and advise me of the total cost. I will pay him the total cost (PayPal), and he will ship me the box. I will then distribute the kits to our members, who will reimburse me the cost (per kit) plus my shipping costs (Priority Mail). NO money is required at this time - I only need your "good faith" orders and a promise to "pay up" when I have the kits in hand and ready to ship.
This is a NON-PROFIT deal, by design. Tom will charge me $100 per kit, plus his shipping cost to me. I will charge our members $100 per kit, plus my shipping costs. My motivation is twofold: I will be able to secure brand new plungers for my own use, AND I get to repay our forum members for the friendship and assistance they have provided since Jeannie and I joined ForeForums.
Each KIT will service ONE 6-pack manifold. Each KIT contains 6 new plungers, 6 new springs, 18 O-rings (round), and 1 solenoid valve wrench. Price, per kit, is $100 + mailing cost (PayPal preferred, personal check will be accepted but must clear before the kit(s) ship). No warrantee or guarantee of any kind is given or implied, except that each kit will be exactly as described.
The purchaser is responsible for determining the suitability of these kits for their particular application.
These plungers are exact reproductions of the ones originally fitted in the HWH valves, with the correct size blue insert. They should fit the valves on all our Foretravel coaches equipped with HWH Air leveling system, but of course I cannot guarantee this fact. Look at the photos - examine the HWH valves on your coach - it is your responsibility to decide if these will work for you.
Tom will give his forum members (and ours) adequate time to place their orders. If you want one or more kits, you should let me know ASAP. Contact me directly via PM with your order, so as to not clutter up this posting. If you have any questions about this offer, ask them here, and I will respond best I can.
It takes approximately 3 weeks from the time Tom places his order until the factory ships the parts. Then Tom will have to make up the kits, and send them to me. Obviously, we can't say exactly when you will finally get the kits, but I will update our members on the progress as we go.
An opportunity like this may never happen again! If you EVER plan to rebuild your 6-packs, you should order 2 kits (one for each manifold). If you want to insure having spare parts for your future needs, you should order them NOW. I personally plan to order 4 kits for myself: two for immediate installation, and two to keep for possible future use (like if we ever "traded up" to another coach...).
Do what you think is best, but if you miss out on this offer, you may never get another.
Sent a request for two sets. Thanks
Hmm, have not had any trouble (yet). Do they fit our coach, as well as the forty footers?
Mike, I
believe all the brass HWH valve bodies are the same, regardless of model or year. They used a different looking electric coil, with a "U" shaped bracket, on the newer coaches. But, I
think the brass part is the same. Except, that is, for the ones used on tag axle lifting manifolds. Those have a larger internal port (hole) that the plunger sets down on. Because it has a wide blue insert, this plunger
should also work there!
pm sent for 2 sets.
I think I would call Peter Paul Electronics and ask if the have the plungers, they are a valve manufacture.
Mike,
You won't ever have a problem with these parts failing on your coach as you have a torsilastic suspension in you U-240.
Pamela & Mike
Which I do, thanks. I'm still recovering from buying the Progressive EMS! ^.^d
Mike, and Mike:
I have amended the initial post to clarify that these kits only pertain to coaches with HWH AIR leveling systems.
*****IMPORTANT POINT.
One of our members PM'd me and asked if these plungers were actually manufactured by HWH. I didn't know, so I called Tom and asked him.
The short answer is "NO".
The long answer is like this: Tom invested a LOT of time searching for new plungers for his coach, before he came up with this solution. He says that HWH does not actually do the machining of the individual parts used in their valves - they have them produced by sub-contractors. What Tom did was take a original "HWH" plunger to a machine shop that specializes in valve manufacture, and had them reproduce it to the best of their ability. The engineer he worked with says the "new" plunger is identical to the original piece, and functions "as good as the original".
Tom sold 35 kits to his forum members in the first group buy, and has had zero negative feedback.
I don't want to mislead anyone about this plunger. I will amend my original post to remove any wording that would imply that this is a "genuine HWH part". It is not. But it is (IMO) the best replica that you are likely to find, and it is certainly better to use this reproduction, rather than the old worn pieces, when you rebuild your 6-packs.
If anyone wishes to change or cancel their order based on this disclosure, just PM me! 8)
Hi Chuck,
Very interesting thread... I am pretty certain I want to get a couple of these, but wondering what you think the deadline will be to order via PM. I am currently spending hand over fist on repairing a park model trailer here at our home base and the thing is like little hatchlings in a nest screaming for more! I just hope our coach doesn't get jealous... ::)
Don
Don,
Totally understand conflicting priorities. Tom and I didn't really discuss a deadline - we just said we'd see what kind of response we got. He said he would need a minimum of 30 kits ordered to make this work, and as of this evening (without your order) our forum has already met that goal! I'll keep checking in with him, and see what he says. We won't close the "order window" without some advance warning...I want to be sure most of our members have had a chance to see the announcement. I realize not everyone is online every day (like I am).
At this rate, I'm gonna have to really pump up my PayPal cash account! :o
Chuck,
Thanks so much for finding this and working out a way for our forum to participate!
It says a lot that Tom is willing to take on the cost risk (and maybe you are in this, too) for producing these parts. I saw on Newell Gurus that last time he did this, he didn't have a single unpaid order. I'm looking forward to reading the same for this effort once it's completed ^.^d
It has been awhile since I have had my head in the coach air system (but always plenty of air in my head :o )... just to be clear, am I right in assuming that our non-tag axle coaches have two six packs, one in the front and one in the rear, but tag axle coaches have two in the rear? If correct then two kits will basically give me the ability to rebuild the HWH leveling manifolds, with the exception of the solenoids themselves. If so, then that is pretty high on on my list of desirable projects!
Don
Yes, as far as I know, your understanding (about the tag axle) is correct. Others can correct me if I'm wrong.
The only other "replaceable" parts on each 6-pack are the four little O-rings on the two check valves. (See my thread on the 6-pack rebuild for details) I replaced these, but the original ones were in almost perfect condition. Truthfully, I think they would have been fine if I had left them undisturbed. I mostly removed them out of curiosity...just to see what they looked like.
Bump to the top.
I want to keep this at the top of the "new posts" until I'm pretty sure everybody has had a chance to read it.
I an going into town today. I will check with the Post Office on the best Priority Mail box for this purpose, and what it will cost. I also want to check the cost of insurance, in case anyone wants more than the standard $50 coverage. More info to follow.
PM'd for a pair.
Thanks
Just a thought but we will all be left with a handful of plungers that need new blue plastic seals !
Any way to refurbish them ?
Jimmy, I do not know of any other way to say this except "So, what if we are left with a bunch of plungers as I doubt we will need to do the exchange again anyway, and at this price just think of the money saved compared to what it would have been had Chuck not got us this deal"?
A lot of owners think nothing of paying a mechanic $120 and hour to change their oil etc, so think of the positive side of it all. Money saved for once ^.^d
JohnH
You should figure out how to do it! You could have a sweet little part-time business. I read that HWH wants $75
per valve to do a rebuild, which is basically just O-rings and a new plunger and spring. Go for it!
I paid $109 for a single solenoid last summer at HWH !
Greetings from Replica Plunger HQ. I have some good news, and some not so good news.
Good news: Tom McCloud (my contact at NewellGurus) kindly offered to sell me a "sample" kit from his private stash. After his first group buy, he held back a couple kits for his own future use. Now, since he is going to place another order, he is willing to part with one kit. I will receive the kit in our Monday mail. I will take (and post) a bunch of hi-res photos, and examine the parts to the best of my ability. I will even pull one of my freshly rebuilt valves apart, and remove the old plunger, so I can physically compare the two. We both feel it will ease the minds of those placing orders, to have someone on our Forum actually "see" the contents of the kit.
Not so good news: Going in, I had no idea this offer would elicit such a hearty response! I figured 20-25 kits, at the most. Well, (as of this morning) I now have 29 "customers" on my list, with a total order for 63 kits. My agreement with Tom was that I would pay him in advance for the total cost of our orders, before he ships them to me. Then, I will recover my "investment" from our members, before we mail out the boxes. This means (as of this morning) that I will have to come up with $6300 cash before I will receive our kits. This is pushing my resources to the limit.
As a result, I have no choice but to give notice that the "order window" for our Forum will close at midnight tonight.
There is a lot of trust involved in this whole deal. Tom McCloud is taking my word that I will purchase the kits we order from him. He is putting up his personal money to place the order with the plunger manufacturer. I am trusting him to send me the kits we ordered, after I send him my cash. And you, the Forum members, are placing a great deal of trust in me - taking my word that you will actually get the kits you ordered when you pay me. Plus, of course, I am trusting you all to take the kits you ordered (but I'm not worried in the least about that part).
This will end up being a lot of work for Jeannie and I, because she will be helping me with mailing out all the boxes when the time comes. I want to reiterate that I am not making a penny on this deal - I will only charge you my cost for the kits ($100), plus shipping expenses.
I hope everyone understands my position, and why I need to "close the order window" with such short notice.
Chuck,
So these kits should be compatible with all Foretravels regardless of the year?
Jim
2002 U320
Jim,
I cannot guarantee compatibility with all years/models, because I have not examined the valves on all those coaches. If the factory replacement HWH valve for your system would be a RAP1940, then these plungers should fit. If the valves on your coach look like those in the photos below, then these plungers should fit. That's all I can tell you.
Sent a pm from my phone but appears to have gone as an email I think. Thank you for doing this.
Now, if I could come up with a manifold to rebuild, then swap out on the FT with one trip under .
Thanks for putting this together!
Check around with the big RV recycling companies. It is my impression that these HWH manifolds are found on several brands of diesel pusher motorhomes. You might get lucky and find some good used manifolds for sale!
Chuck,
I have a kit (O rings only, for six solenoids) for my 2002 coach that was provided to my by the HWH tech in Moscow - the number is RAP6554. Hum...I wonder if it is the same as you are getting?
So I called HWH parts dept. today to ask about the years and part numbers. The lady said they are all the same for ALL years of Foretravels including the tag axle:
The RAP1940 is for 1 complete solenoid for $109.00 each.
The RAP6554 is the 12 piece O-ring kit (2 O-rings for each solenoid for a 6 pack) for $8.00.
Jim
2002 U320
The kit offered via Chuck addresses all the Orings and plunger seals.
The HWH Orings kit is for 2/3s of the Orings and no plunger seals.
If had not already ordered these from an previous offering, I would do so now. Something to give serious consideration to.
Rudy,
Thanks for the input. Tom McCloud mentioned to me that you are well-known and highly respected on the NewellGurus forum.
Not just the plunger seals, but the entire plunger plus new springs. Enough for all 6 valves for less than the price of 1 replacement valve.
Over time, the plastic seat on the plunger will take an imprint of the metal mating piece.
Jerry Whiteaker successfully remachined one of his on a lathe, Jim McNeece found similar plungers (slightly smaller diameter plastic seat) which Chuck found have a current price of $20/per plunger (or more for 6 than this kit which includes O-rings plus springs for 6).
Thank you Chuck for finding this!
In case you missed my "Rebuild" thread, this is the condition of the 6 plungers from my front 6-pack manifold (after 23 years of faithful service). You can see that these appear identical to the one being offered in these kits. (see the photos in my initial post)
Actually, that was me, Michelle, who posted.
Just an example of how HWH valve seats "take a set", not necessarily the same valves. I didn't mean to confuse, just to show that the plastic seats do "age out". I've since deleted my photo to avoid causing more confusion. Doug's photo below of the actual plunger shows the issue even better (and on the same part).
Another picture of a disassembled HWH Air Solenoid p/n RAP1940
I just advised Tom that we were now at a total order of 91 kits (546 plungers). He sounded kinda shocked, and said I need to hold off on taking any more orders until he gets a new price quote and revised lead time. I'm not sure what that is about...
If any more orders come in between now and midnight (my previously announced cutoff), I will have to put them on a temporary hold until I hear back from Tom. I will keep you advised as soon as I know more.
Hey Chuck that sounds like you may get a better deal! Usually when volume goes up the price comes down- unless they cannot handle that volume and back out??
JohnH
Yes, John, I think the greatly increased volume of orders is the concern. I now have 45 "customers" on my list, with 96 kits on order. I was keeping Tom apprised of the order numbers as we went along, but they suddenly shot WAY up yesterday. Since he has to front the entire cost of the combined orders from both forums out of his pocket, he is feeling the same financial pressure that I am. I have assured him that our forum (which means...ME) will step up and take all the kits we ordered, and that he won't get stuck "holding the bag".
Tom contacted me late yesterday evening, and said he needs to check with his supplier on Monday. Until then, the order list is "locked".
As of today, no more orders will be accepted from our Forum.
I don't think we need to worry. If we all stick together, I am confident that this deal can go through. I will immediately post here any updates as I get them from Tom.
May I suggest you open a Paypal account and we pay the fees in advance (plus the 3% Paypal fee). Those that don't have an account and don't want to open one should send you a check in advance.
I am happy to do either
X1
I appreciate your offer to pay early, Tim, and the other similar offers I have received via PM.
I think at this point, it is best to go one step at a time. Let's wait to hear what Tom has to say, after he checks with his supplier. Then, if the deal is still on, we will go forward. Once I am sure the actual order has been placed for the plungers, there will be a 3 week or so waiting period until they are delivered to Tom. During that time, IF our members volunteer to do so, I will gratefully accept advance payments for the orders. Any payments I receive before I have to send my "BIG" payment to Tom will, of course, reduce the financial strain on me.
I should get the sample kit from Tom on Monday. I will post photos here of the contents, and my impression of the quality, etc. Having the sample kit will also let me decide what USPS Priority Mail box will work best for shipments. I will then work up exactly what the total cost will be for each shipment, based on the number of kits ordered. I will include the (optional) costs for extra insurance, if desired. More on that later.
I already have a long-standing PayPal "personal" account. I am presently researching my options within that account. I will let you know how the PayPal option will work, as soon as I figure it out.
Thanks for all the expressions of support. This project grew FAR larger than anticipated, and it is taking a while for Tom and I to catch up. We (both) also appreciate your patience. For everybody's sake, we want this deal to be a success!
Chuck, Money forwarded to you via PayPal will be reduced by a 3% fee.
Oops, I missed Tom's comment earlier.
Free in Canada when you use your bank account or balance.
This I just copied from Pay Pal website and I have sent a few large amounts of money to England without any fees either side so wonder if this also applies to US accounts. You do have to say you are sending money to friends or family though. This would apply as we are all one big family-right?
I too will do whatever is necessary to make it easier for Chuck and Jeannie
JohnH
Which is why I noted purchase price plus 3% 😊
No fees if designated as "gift"
No need to keep tossing this subject around. I will let you all know how the PayPal will work, when the time comes. I am not going to jeopardize my PayPal account or risk a visit from the PayPal Police (Black helicopters over my house, guys in Black Ninja suits banging on my door). :o
To keep this operation "legit" I think I will have to require the 3% to be added to the payments, but like I said, I'll let you know.
I'm just repeating here what I posted earlier this morning (Reply #37, above). This is for the benefit of late-comers, or those who don't bother to read earlier entries before they post or send PMs:
The order list is locked! As of today (03/12/2016), no more orders will be accepted from our Forum.
I will know more about the order status next week. If it becomes possible to accept more orders, I will let you know at that time.
Happy to pay the cost of rebuild kits upfront if it helps . It's going to be a considerable upfront outlay for you guys
I received the sample solenoid rebuild kit from Tom late yesterday. I have examined the plungers (which are the most important parts of the kit) with great care. I measured them with a machinist's rule and a micrometer. I took one of the valves from my front 6-pack apart, and compared the old plunger with the new plunger.
Result: I can discern NO physical difference between the old and new plungers (except, of course, for the sealing surface). They are the same size, same shape, same weight, and same basic finish. I don't think we could possibly find a more exact reproduction. I, for one, am convinced that this kit is the answer, if you want to do the best possible job of rebuilding the 6-pack manifolds on your coach.
The O-rings supplied in the kit are round. Round O-rings are what HWH currently recommends. They should work fine. If you want to use "square" O-rings in your rebuild, you will have to source them yourself. See my thread "Working On My 6-pack" for part numbers and source. Working On My Six Pack (http://www.foreforums.com/index.php?topic=27491.0)
There is a SLIGHT difference in the height of the new springs, versus the old original ones. The new one is shorter...probably less than 1/16". Tom says the new spring is correct for this application. The old original springs in my front 6-pack appear to be in perfect condition. IMO, you could probably use either the new springs, or your old ones...your choice. All the springs do is position the plunger on the valve seat - they have nothing to do with how much pressure the valve can hold.
Tom enclosed a instruction sheet with the kit. I scanned it to .pdf and it is included below.
I think we are getting a great deal on these kits. What else can I say?
Note: In the first 7 photos, the old original part is on the left, the new one from the kit on the right.
Well done Chuck, any comments on any changes to price or date when all done?
Not important just thought that as there where possible problems or? with the large order that you mentioned. By the way it is a good deal even though we Canadians will be paying 37% more than US price + Border fees etc.
Thanks
JohnH
I won't have any new info until Tom has a chance to consult with his suppliers tomorrow. I will post any updates ASAP.
Some members have asked how hard it will be to install these kits. Well, that kinda depends... You will be working under your coach, possibly for several hours on each manifold. That, alone, will dissuade some. You'll need a full set of 8 safety stands. The tools are pretty basic. You are gonna get dirty, especially when you tackle the rear manifold, so be prepared for that. I put together a little photo tutorial. (Photos are in order according to step number)
Photo 1: Clean off the manifold. You want to avoid at all cost getting dirt and trash into the ports on the manifold. I would clean the whole work area the best you can. The rear manifold will be especially dirty. It may take several sessions with a brush and degreaser, before it is clean enough to work on. Also, if you plan on removing all the electric coils simultaneously, mark their position somehow with a magic marker. In my photo, they are marked RT (right top), RM (right middle), RB (right bottom), etc. It is imperative that you replace the coils on the correct valves when you complete the rebuilding process.
Photo 2: Use the wrench in the kit to remove the nut on top of the electric solenoid.
Photo 3: Nut has been removed.
Photo 4: Pull the electric coil off the stainless steel valve armature. Let it hang on the wires. There might be a big washer under the coil (mine is painted black).
Photo 5: Remove the washer. If it rusty or corroded, clean it up the best you can.
Photo 6: Use the wrench in the kit to loosen the stainless steel armature, but DO NOT remove it at this time.
Photo 7: Remove the brass valve body. I recommend using a small rubber strap wrench, which will not tear up the soft brass material.
Photo 8: This is what you see when you remove the brass valve body. You will need to clean up the surface where the valve body seats. You want this surface to be as smooth and as flawless as possible, so that the O-rings on the valve body can seal properly. Use caution when you are cleaning this area! The aluminum is very soft, and easily scratched! Use the most gentle cleaning procedure that will do the job.
Photo 9: Move the brass valve body to a clean area where you can work comfortably. Unscrew and remove the armature.
Photo 10: Remove the plunger and spring, and remove the internal medium sized O-ring. Also remove the large and small O-rings from the bottom of the brass body. Clean everything up. Use caution cleaning the brass - it is also soft. When everything is clean, install the new O-rings, using a little lube on each one. The lube helps hold them in place and keeps them from twisting while you reassemble the valve. Install the new plunger and spring. Put everything back together in reverse order. That's all there is to it! 8)
Well done Chuck, piece of cake 8)
quote "You will be working under your coach, possibly for several hours on each manifold. That, alone, will dissuade some. You'll need a full set of 8 safety stands. The tools are pretty basic. You are gonna get dirty, especially when you tackle the rear manifold, so be prepared for that"
I am taking appointments for pit use for this operation, first come basis. Should be a cinch cleaning the block etc and doing the change over. ^.^d You can while under there do a full inspection of your coach and all for free.
JohnH
Added note on my tutorial (above). The solenoid valves shown in the photos are on my '93 U280. They have a full metal cover over each electric coil, and a large washer between the coil and the brass valve body. I understand that sometime later (I don't know when) HWH switched to a different means of retaining the coil. Instead of the full metal cover, there will be a "U" shaped metal bracket around the coil. In this case, there may be no large washer. However, all the steps for installing the new plungers remain exactly the same, regardless of which coil retainer is used.
Photos of newer style coil retainer:
It's quiet here, but things are happening behind the scenes. I hope to have good news in the next day or two! Stay tuned to this channel.
IMPORTANT ANNOUNCEMENT
I have just received word from Tom McCloud that he has placed the order for the plungers and springs. He has allotted us 100 kits, as previously announced. I have told him that I received a few more requests (7 kits) after the deadline. If he ends up with any left-over kits after he distributes to his members, I will see if he can help me fill those late orders.
Due to the increased size of the order, Tom says the estimated time for delivery is now 4 weeks. If this changes, he will let me know, and I will pass it on.
In the next couple days, I am going to send out a PM to each member on my order list. It will contain my mailing address, in case you want to mail me a check. It will list my email address, which is all you need to make a PayPal payment. It will verify the number of kits you ordered, and it will have a copy of a "pricing sheet" attached. You can use this sheet to calculate what your order will cost, depending on how much insurance you want, and how you want to pay. I will also include this sheet at the bottom of this post.
Many of you have offered to pay early. I really appreciate this show of support, and will be happy to accept early payments. Early payments will help reduce the amount of cash I have to provide out of my pocket when I send the BIG payment ($10,000.00) to Tom.
Those who do not wish to pay early, can wait until I have paid Tom for the kits, he has mailed them to me, and I actually have them in my possession ready to ship out. At that time, I will request payment from everyone who has not already paid.
Once I have the kits in hand, I will ship them out in the order of "Payments Received". Those who pay first, will get their kits first. I will not ship kits until I have received payment, either in my PayPal account, or by a personal check that has cleared my bank.
In my next post I will attach a printout of everyone on the order list for the 100 kits. If you are on this list, you will (eventually) get your kits. If you want to decrease your order (order fewer kits) or cancel your order - no problem - just let me know by PM. You may not (at this time) increase your order. This might possibly change at a later date.
I hope you are as happy as I am to hear that the kits are ordered, and the project is finally moving forward.
Order list for 100 kits. Please check my math - I'll be really embarrassed if it doesn't add up to 100.
For those "On Hold" - You will be contacted if I can come up with additional kits. Until then, DO NOT send me your payment!
Bump to top.
To those members on the order list: Do not be concerned if I am slow in sending out my PM messages. I can only send 6 PMs per hour (due to Forum software limits). I have already received some early PayPal payments, and I will send out your "receipt" PM asap.
Thanks again to all who have offered to pay early. You will all get your PM with payment instructions sometime today.
Yeah, that's actually a security feature in case of a bot...
When you send in your payment, please make a note somewhere indicating your Forum "Display Name" (The name above your avatar), and the number of kits your are paying for. Sometimes it is hard for me to connect your real name (given name) with your "Display Name". I need to keep cross-checking to make sure I don't screw up any of these orders.
With PayPal, there is a box where you can write a short note to the "seller". Put your info there.
On checks, just scribble it in the corner somewhere.
Thanks!
Project update.
I have now sent out the PM containing payment instructions to every member on the order list. Remember, early payment is not required, but it will certainly be appreciated. We have about 4 weeks to wait until Tom gets the parts from his suppliers. You can make your payment anytime during this waiting period - there is no rush.
That being said, I am pleased to report that 16 out of the 48 orders have already been paid in full! Thanks, Guys! In case you are wondering, "craneman" was quickest on the draw, and had the first payment in to PayPal. When I finally get around to shipping the kits out, his package will be number one on the mailing list.
The next step.
Going in the order that I receive payments, I will (eventually) send out a second PM to every "customer". In this PM (henceforth called a Payment Receipt) I will list the number of kits you ordered, the (USPS) insurance you requested, and the amount you remitted. I will also list the mailing address I will use to ship your package. For payments made by check, I will use the return address enclosed with your letter. For payments made by PayPal, I will use your PayPal shipping address, unless you tell me to send it elsewhere. I have already gotten instructions from several members to use a alternate address - in those cases, that is what I will show on your Payment Receipt.
When you get this second PM, check it over very carefully! If anything is incorrect or needs to be updated, let me know!
Thanks for all your support and words of encouragement. It is a great pleasure being associated with this group.
Project Update.
Just heard from Tom that the estimated date of delivery of the parts to his shop (in AZ) is April 15th.
Then, he (and his DW) have to divvy up all the plungers, springs, O-rings and tools into kits.
Then he has to toss all our kits in a big box and mail them to me.
Then Jeannie and I have to divide all the kits into separate orders, pack them in Flat Rate boxes, and get them mailed.
SO, you can understand it is still too early to promise a specific delivery date, but I'm HOPING I might have them all mailed out by April 30.
(That is assuming all the orders are paid for by then).
Keep the faith!
Great community. Fun.
These things snowball sometimes don't they Chuck ? But we do appreciate your effort !
Yes, this is a good example of the "One Thing Leads To Another" syndrome. All I really wanted when I started was 12 new plungers for my own coach...then it got out of hand. :facepalm:
You shouldn't be such a good salesman. You made this repair look too do-able for us average Joes. Sit back and get ready for all the PMs .......when we ALL get into this project.
Project Update.
It's now been 2 weeks since Tom ordered the parts for the kits. I thought it was time for a status report.
Thanks to Tom McCloud, our original order of 100 kits was increased sufficiently to accommodate all of the "hold" requests which came in after the "Order Window" was closed. The final order list from our Forum is comprised of 61 customers (including myself), and a total of 126 kits!
Out of those 61 customers, 48 have now submitted payment in full for their kits. Thanks to you guys for easing the impending financial strain on my wallet! Remember, when the kits are ready, I will be mailing them out in order of payments received.
We have approximately 2 weeks before I will have to make the final payment to Tom for the kits, so still lots of time. I am keeping careful track of the arrival of payments, and sending out Payment Receipts as each one comes in. If you don't get a receipt within a reasonable time after you send your payment, let me know by PM. We have already had two members who had a little trouble with the PayPal procedure, and we were able to catch the mistake early because they spoke up. Don't be shy!
If there are any changes/updates between now and April 15th (estimated delivery date to Tom), I will advise. Otherwise, no news is good news!
Thanks for the update Chuck b^.^d
Two things here.
1) Do the plungers really go bad? It looks like the ones pulled out have a lot of sealing surface left. How deep before the sealing surface is torn up?
2) Can I get put on a wait list? Do I need 3 kits for a 42' non-lifting tag or just 2. I can't recall my schematics right now.
1. Mark, please read this thread from start to finish - then you will know all I know about plungers.
2. Sadly, there is no waiting list. Perhaps in the future, someone else will repeat this exercise, but it won't be me.
Project Update.
We are now at 3 weeks since Tom submitted his order for the kit parts, and 1 week until the Estimated Time of Delivery (to Tom). Thought it was time for a update report.
I have now received payment in full from 57 of the 61 "customers" (including myself) in my Order Book. THANK YOU! You guys have taken most of the financial load off my back, and for that I am very grateful.
If any of you have sent in your payment and not received a Payment Receipt from me via PM, please let me know. (Allow reasonable time for checks sent by snail-mail to arrive.) One member's payment somehow slipped through the cracks in my accounting "system" and I failed to send him a receipt. After he rattled my cage, we got that rapidly rectified. :-[
I HOPE my next report will announce that Tom has received the parts from the machine shop. Then he and his DW will have to assemble the kits (126 of them, just for our Forum) and ship them to me. Then it will be MY turn to get to work.
We are getting close! Keep the faith!
I've got the (60) Priority Mail shipping boxes ready to go - just need something to put in them!
Dang you're organized!!
Rich
Project Update
Tom called this evening - said he'd just talked to his machine shop. They were shooting for delivery on the 14th, but got a little behind. They are now promising to deliver the plungers and springs to Tom on Monday 4-18. He said he will not waste any time getting the stuff sorted into kits, and then mail them to me. I am HOPING to have the kits in my possession by the end of next week.
I now have full payment from 56 of the 60 members on my order list. The 4 who have not paid should think about getting it done. I do not want to delay shipment of the kits to anyone because of non-payment. And, again, a big THANKS to all the "early" payers! You really helped out!
I will update again on Monday, as soon as I hear something positive from Tom.
Project Update
I received a email from Tom last evening. He will take delivery of the parts from the machine shop today. He then has to sort the parts into kits, and box up the whole pile of kits to mail to me. He has personal business to attend to Friday. He said worst case scenario he will get the carton mailed to me Monday (25th). Hopefully it will reach me NLT Wed-Thurs. I will then start packing and mailing my boxes ASAP.
I have received full payment from 57 of the 60 members on my order list. The 3 who have not paid should think about getting it done. I do not want to delay shipment of the kits to anyone because of non-payment. And, again, a VERY BIG THANKS to all the "early" payers! I have already mailed my payment to Tom ($12,600.00), and due to the support of our Forum members, I only had to cover the cost of 9 kits out of my pocket.
I will update again on Monday, the 25th.
Project Update
Here is where we stand - Tom got the parts from his supplier last Thursday (4-21). He and his DW spent all day Friday sorting the parts and dividing them into kits. They got them boxed up Saturday morning and took them to a UPS store for shipment. Unfortunately, there is no pickup at that store on Saturday, so the kits didn't actually go out until late yesterday (4-25). They will arrive here Thursday (4-28) in the late afternoon, UPS usually comes after 5:00pm. I will box up as many as I can and get at least SOME of them mailed Friday afternoon, but no guarantees that I will get them all shipped Friday. Whatever doesn't go out Friday will go out Monday (5-2). As I stated early in the project, I will ship in the order of payments received - early payers get first priority on shipping.
I am pleased to report that I now have payment in full from 59 of the 60 names on my order sheet, and a promise from #60 to send payment ASAP. That is pretty dern impressive! Tom was bragging that he had 35 members all pay for their orders as promised...we almost doubled that performance. WELL DONE!
I will report in again Thursday afternoon, after I receive the shipment from Tom. Might even post a photo to whet your interest...
Fofums are the best (and tend to be overachievers ;) ) Way to go, everyone!
I never expected anything less!! ^.^d This forum and its members are exceptional
;)
Two boxes from Tom just delivered by UPS! Now it's time for Jeannie and I to get to work. I will report in late tomorrow and let you know how we did with the mailing.
Bella is supervising the operation...
Chuck, that is a well fed little dog you got there!
Yes, we know. We keep trying to put her on a diet, but it doesn't work (for her OR us). She just went to the Doggie Beauty Parlor yesterday, and got her "summer" clip, which makes her legs look a lot "skinnier" than normal. She is a well-rounded dog! 8)
Project Update
Thanks to a herculean effort by me and my able crew (Jeannie & Bella), we were able to get all 60 boxes packed last night and this morning. We just returned from the Post Office where we got them all mailed. Pretty much tied up one mail clerk for over an hour, but the lobby was almost empty (fortunately) so at least we weren't holding up a long line of irate customers. The total bill for the mailing came to $561.70 :o
Jeannie and I took great pains to ensure each box contained the correct number of items. Tom had divided up the plungers, springs and O-rings into sets before he sent them to me. We checked each package of plungers and springs for the correct count (6 each). I did not count the O-rings in every bag, because it would have delayed shipping too long. I did check every 10th bag of O-rings, and they were right, so I trusted Tom on the contents of the rest of the bags.
When you get your package, check the contents carefully. I am sure they will be correct, but I am also sure I am fallible. If you are missing anything, let me know. I have plenty of extra O-rings from my own personal purchase when I started this project, so I could easily replace any missing O-rings. The rest of the items I am 99.9% sure will be correct.
The next step will be for me to send each member on my order list a PM, which will include your tracking number. It will take me a day and a half or so to get all these PMs sent, because I can only send 6 per hour (ForeForum rules). But you should have your tracking info before the weekend is out. The expected delivery date on all these boxes is Monday 05/02/16.
When you receive your package, if all is correct (or even more so if not), I would appreciate a quick PM telling me it arrived. I will check off your name on my master order list as I get acknowledgement of receipt. Once everybody's name is checked, I'm DONE! 8)
Photo: Boxes loaded in the car before going to Post Office. (The granite sample under the boxes is for a kitchen re-do project)
Chuck, I thank you Jeannie and Bella for all your hard work. ^.^d
What you've done is nothing short of "giving." Kudos to all involved! ^.^d
Job well done ^.^d
We really are a family. Modern style.
What a terrific story! There are so many steps involved to get this collection of assemblies thru production, order entry and delivery! That would make a fabulous article. Thanks for the great legwork! Paul
Chuck,
You truly deserve a huge "atta boy" for the work you put into this project. If we are ever in the same campground, I owe you dinner and a cold beverage of your choice.
Thanks for your work
Steve
Wow! Just wow ^.^d
Don
Bella you Rock! Thank you Jeannie you too Chuck :-)
Just think of all the group buy things Bella, Jeannie, and Chuck could coordinate in their spare time for the forum members.
Thinking out side the box now, but how about AC units, satellite units, lug nut covers, tail lights or head lights, LED clearance lights? How about spare filter bulk sales? The list of upgrades, or maintance items is almost endless to fill their time.
And of course I extend my thanks for a job, well done.
You have correctly identified the mastermind in this outfit. Without her, we would be completely disorganized. She keeps us on track, and on schedule, especially when it comes to her meal times!
Nice Job, Chuck and the Gang of Two! A little motivation goes a long way to benefitting many in our community. It is some work but knowing you helped someone out feels pretty good. Thanks a bunch. Are you coming to help install them?
Roger
No! Really! Think how many grateful folks you would get to actually meet. You have earned our thanks.
Thanks so much for taking care of all of this. We received our tracking number information; now anxious to actually touch the goodies!
Our two sets arrived today--right on schedule. Thanks again so much for all of your efforts to make this happen!
My two sets are here today also. What a nice job. Thanks to everyone for the excellent work
Just got home the kits are here. Many thanks for your effort. Looks like a winter job for me
We are thrilled to receive our "Care Package" today. Good job! Thanks
Chuck mine have arrived too, thanks for your work on setting this up for us. Thanks to Jeannie too.
JohnH
My 2 sets came today also. Thanks again ^.^d
My kits arrived yesterday. THANK YOU
Chuck and Jeannie, wow, thanks so much for your care and organization of this whole project. That looks like a ton of work. Oh how I love this forum and everyone who contributes to it!
Thanking both of you for all the work you put into this project! ^.^d
Thanks Chuck and Jennie thanks for all your time and effort in handling this massive task, got the package. Best regards Andy and Eileen.
Received ours today. Wow....!!!!! Thank You C&J
Now the work begins... ::)
H
Got mine Chuck and crew!
FINAL PROJECT REPORT
According to the USPS tracking system, the last package was just delivered to the intended recipient (I hope). All 60 boxes made it! Considering the state of our US Postal system, I had my doubts, but they came through. So this is my last post in this thread, which has surely dragged on long enough. If you have any questions, comments, or advice about installing the kits, please start a new topic.
It was a pleasure handling this group buy for our Forum members. Like I said at the start, it was just a way to give back a little of the support and friendship we have felt since the very first time we visited ForeForums. I hope it will encourage other members to take a more active interest in the maintenance and upkeep of their coaches. The more we all learn, and share with others, the better off we all are.
We (Jeannie, Bella and I) appreciate all the kind "Thank You" notes. You're Welcome! ^.^d
Chuck,
I am not home, (at MOT) but I suspect they are there. Thanks for all the hard work.
Thank you Chuck,
I received them today.
Jim
Mine came Monday.
I can't thank you enough for your "over the top" efforts!
If I can ever assist you here in the Chicago area don't hesitate to ask.
My two kits came in also in great shape.
I am blown away by the level of detail and amount of work you all put in to make this happen...very grateful.
Thanks,
Rodger
Mine got here too! Thanks a lot for all the hard work.....
If we were last, we have received them. Thanks for keeping us on the wait list!
Just a note that I have ordered thru Tom another set and he said that once he gets a few more orders he will get more made, so just to let you know that may not be long away.
Thanks Chuck
JohnH
My two sets arrived Thursday. What a great deal. Thanks for all the efforts!
have they all been bought? arrived a little late. thanks
Yes. But...there may be hope! See this thread for the latest news:
Replica HWH Plungers Redux (http://www.foreforums.com/index.php?topic=28733.msg241344#msg241344)
I wonder if you still have 6 pack kits left? I would like to order 2 sets, thank you
You need to talk to Tom McCloud (send him a PM). He is selling the kits now. Scroll down to the last few posts on this thread:
Replica HWH Plungers Redux (http://www.foreforums.com/index.php?topic=28733.25)
I contacted Tom last week and purchased 2 sets. Paid him thru Paypal. Plungers arrived a couple of days later Priority.
Quick and easy. A pleasure.
Thanks to Chuck for the heads up, and many Thanks to Tom for making it happen.
Also a Huge THANK YOU to all in the forum. You all make life easier. b^.^d Ric
Does anyone know where to get a coil or the complete coil and valve.
Chris
Got ready to pull out of shop and coach would not raise on passenger rear traced it back to bad coil
Chris
HWH Solenoid Coil (https://www.foreforums.com/index.php?topic=33755.msg308428#msg308428)