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Topic: Merge solenoid 1997 U295? (Read 461 times) previous topic - next topic

Merge solenoid 1997 U295?

Hey,

I want to remove the merge solenoid on my U295.  I've switched to 52V house batteries, so I plan to just bond the wires and connect the start batteries to both engines permanently.

So, can anyone tell me, where might this thing be?  :D

Ben
1997 U295 36' WTBI

Re: Merge solenoid 1997 U295?

Reply #1 –
Ben,

You may be interested to know that you have, in a small way, just made history.  AFAIK, your post is the first time the term "merge solenoid" has ever appeared on this Forum.  Congratulations!

Sorry, I don't know the answer to your question.  Are you possibly referring to the BOOST solenoid?  If so, the thread linked below may provide some clues:

Boost switch Solenoid Location??

1993 U280 SE 40' WTBI, Build: 4359
C8.3 300hp, 6-Speed, Exhaust Brake
960 watts on the roof (6 x 160)
Sorento (or BOLT) on a Kar Kaddy SS
"Nature abhors a vacuum"

Re: Merge solenoid 1997 U295?

Reply #2 –
Quote from: nebster –
Hey,

I want to remove the merge solenoid on my U295.  I've switched to 52V house batteries, so I plan to just bond the wires and connect the start batteries to both engines permanently.

So, can anyone tell me, where might this thing be?  :D

Ben
I'm considering 48v system too.
Have you been able to find a 48v to 12v converter?
Tim
Tim Dianics
Pam Sapienza
Vader PupZilla Labrador Canine Beast (AKA Pup)
Columbia, MO
1996 U320 4000
2021 Jeep Gladiator, Diesel

Re: Merge solenoid 1997 U295?

Reply #3 –

This is what I used in my '81 FT when I converted it to 24 volts. It converts any voltage up to 50 volts to 13.6 volts.  I will sell it for 1/2 Amazon price.

Amazon.com: Newmar Converter, 20-50VDC to 13.6VDC 35 Amp : Electronics

As an Amazon Associate Foretravel Owners' Forum earns from qualifying purchases.
1999 40 ft. U-320 wtfe build 5563 Chuck & Lynda's "Rollin' Inn"  2030 watts solar
prev. mh's 71 GMC 5 yrs. 73 Pace Setter 1 yr. 78 Vogue 5 yrs 81 FTX 40ft all electric 18 yrs. 1996 Monaco Signature 3 yrs.
2014 Grand Cherokee Overland
Dream as if you will live forever. Live as if you will die today.  James Dean

Re: Merge solenoid 1997 U295?

Reply #4 –
Quote from: Chuck & Jeannie –
Ben,

You may be interested to know that you have, in a small way, just made history.  AFAIK, your post is the first time the term "merge solenoid" has ever appeared on this Forum.  Congratulations!

Sorry, I don't know the answer to your question.  Are you possibly referring to the BOOST solenoid?  If so, the thread linked below may provide some clues:

Boost switch Solenoid Location??

Ha ha ha, you are right!

That's old Newell-speak, peeking through. 

(You do have to admit, that boost solenoid kinda merges two DC systems together, doesn't it?  :D )

Thanks for the forum post.  I see from it that there are about 8 places mine could be, so I'll have to conscript a helper and go listening for it.  I've already checked "under the bed" and not seen it there, though.


1997 U295 36' WTBI

Re: Merge solenoid 1997 U295?

Reply #5 –
Quote from: TGordon –
I'm considering 48v system too.
Have you been able to find a 48v to 12v converter?
Tim

Hi Tim,

I don't use a 48-to-12 converter.  Instead, I create the house 12VDC system from a 120VAC to 12VDC power supply, which runs off the inverter.  Crazy, eh?!

A 48 to 12 buck converter would be a bit more efficient, but they are a bit hard to find at high wattages, and switch-mode AC supplies are more compact and a bit less expensive.  (I actually carry a backup one in case I ever have a failure with the primary, since house DC is so important... but in 7 years of doing it this way, no issues so far.  Meanwell makes good stuff.)
1997 U295 36' WTBI

Re: Merge solenoid 1997 U295?

Reply #6 –
Ben,

From the factory the boost solenoid on a '97 was mounted on a plate behind the rear tires high up on the frame rail. Depending on the engine air cleaner location will determine which side of the coach it is located. Yes some were on the left side and some on the right side. You should be able to open the basement doors behind the rear tires and locate the OEM mounting plate. Now with the age of the coach and several owners they could have moved everything that was mounted on this plate in a better location out of the weather. Some owners have even built an enclosure to help keep these electronic parts dry. This can be like hunting Easter eggs.

Mike
Pamela & Mike 97 U 320

"It's not what happens to you, but how you react to it that matters."

Re: Merge solenoid 1997 U295?

Reply #7 –
Quote from: nebster –
Hi Tim,

I don't use a 48-to-12 converter.  Instead, I create the house 12VDC system from a 120VAC to 12VDC power supply, which runs off the inverter.  Crazy, eh?!

A 48 to 12 buck converter would be a bit more efficient, but they are a bit hard to find at high wattages, and switch-mode AC supplies are more compact and a bit less expensive.  (I actually carry a backup one in case I ever have a failure with the primary, since house DC is so important... but in 7 years of doing it this way, no issues so far.  Meanwell makes good stuff.)
I do not understand the term "switch mode".
Tim Dianics
Pam Sapienza
Vader PupZilla Labrador Canine Beast (AKA Pup)
Columbia, MO
1996 U320 4000
2021 Jeep Gladiator, Diesel