Splendide WD Install

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Splendide WD Install

August 21, 2014, 02:51:10 pm

I am considering having CW install a Splendide Combo WD in my 2009 Nimbus. I am also considering doing the install myself. Does anybody know to what extent my unit is prepped for the install? It is obvious what cabinet it goes into and I can tell that the manibloc shows accommodations for the WD. Any tips would be appreciated.

Re: Splendide WD Install

Reply #1 – August 21, 2014, 03:07:00 pm

Yes, make sure that you get the vented version. The unvented one uses a tremendous amount of water.

Re: Splendide WD Install

Reply #2 – August 21, 2014, 03:21:16 pm

The hardest thing to do us to cut the hole in the side of the coach.

Re: Splendide WD Install

Reply #3 – August 21, 2014, 04:46:04 pm

Sorry, I would never let CW touch my coach. What part of the country are you in?

Re: Splendide WD Install

Reply #4 – August 21, 2014, 05:17:07 pm

Please be careful with CW for this type install.

Re: Splendide WD Install

Reply #5 – August 21, 2014, 05:37:10 pm

In 2008 we had CW do the swap out for our Splendide from the original 2000 to the newer 2100xc. Simple swap out, right? Installer apparently slashed the fill hose sheathing with the box knife he used to open the packaging. Either didn't notice or didn't care and installed them anyway. One hose burst a few months later when we were at a campground with decent water pressure. Good thing we caught it right away.

We definitely wouldn't let CW even do a swap out again, let alone do an initial installation.

Re: Splendide WD Install

Reply #6 – August 21, 2014, 06:43:47 pm

I am in Michigan. Leaning towards installing myself. To what extent is the coach prepped? Currently the cabinet is finished off as a storage cabinet with adjustable shelving.

Re: Splendide WD Install

Reply #7 – August 21, 2014, 07:29:32 pm

Don & Sue, mine had an AC duplex outlet, water and a drain.

Re: Splendide WD Install

Reply #8 – August 21, 2014, 09:48:46 pm

You can use a magnet to find the steel beams which might be in the way for the hole for the vent or usually in the morning can see the outline of the beams. The drain and water faucets should all be there already and also the electric. Remove the shelves and may also have to remove a wood panel to access the drain and water hook ups

Re: Splendide WD Install

Reply #9 – August 21, 2014, 09:58:48 pm

Save the disc that you cut out too. Interesting to look at the construction. I had a friend install his and the hardest part was getting it in after he steeled himself to cut the hole. We have a small piece of wood screwed infront of the washer to hold it in place.

Re: Splendide WD Install

Reply #10 – August 21, 2014, 10:56:06 pm

John S, I think what you meant to say was that "mentally" it is a hard thing to do but not "physically"
I cut a 4" hole in the coach below the toilet box and behind it to install a vinyl vent and fibreglass cover so that the lower area has fresh air going to that section under toilet all the time.
When we had bought the coach there was a terrible urine smell I could not get rid of so figured this may help. It did and I also then found out about the "stinky smell syndrome" that was mentioned re the back vents. Once I replaced them all was well. I still think the vent in side is a good idea regardless. After spraying it to match coach it looks OEM.
JohnH

Re: Splendide WD Install

Reply #11 – August 22, 2014, 03:27:24 am

If your doing a new install you might consider a stacked unit with a separate washer and dryer, unless space is very important above the washer.
You can go with a 220V dryer or a LP gas dryer. I chose the 220V option, works great.
I installed Bosch units.

Re: Splendide WD Install

Reply #12 – August 22, 2014, 07:35:01 am

Quote from: Lon and Cheryl – August 22, 2014, 03:27:24 am

If your doing a new install you might consider a stacked unit with a separate washer and dryer, unless space is very important above the washer.

I agree. Having separate units is much better. We are happy with our gas dryer.

Re: Splendide WD Install

Reply #13 – August 22, 2014, 08:01:16 am

Quote from: John S – August 21, 2014, 03:21:16 pm

The hardest thing to do is to cut the hole in the side of the coach.

Never done it myself, but I imagine this must be one of those situations where you would apply the old adage: "Measure twice, cut once".

Re: Splendide WD Install

Reply #14 – August 22, 2014, 08:11:59 am

One thing I would recommend is having a tray made to go under the machine so if there is a leak you will be aware of it. I had a fabrication shop make me one for about $50. It makes it a little more difficult getting the machine in the small area as the tray must be put in first and then the machine. I also have a water alarm inside the pan. I usually check if there is any water in the pan when the machine is used. Those machines can do a lot of damage when leaks occur.

Also I have a water alarm along with a tray at the water hook up which is under the closet floor.

Good luck
Jason

Re: Splendide WD Install

Reply #15 – August 22, 2014, 09:32:14 am

Quote from: djpauls – August 21, 2014, 02:51:10 pm

I am considering having CW install a Splendide Combo WD in my 2009 Nimbus.

I would not have CW change a light bulb in my coach.

Roland

Re: Splendide WD Install

Reply #16 – August 22, 2014, 09:34:27 am

C' on, Roland, don't hold back ;o)

best, paul

Re: Splendide WD Install

Reply #17 – August 22, 2014, 11:22:32 am

Agree with Roland. Read Michelle's post. Many horror stories throughout the forum..

Re: Splendide WD Install

Reply #18 – August 22, 2014, 11:32:52 am

Re the metal tray under washer. Who in there right mind would NOT put one of these under the unit. If the installer does not do it I would not use them. As mentioned by Jerrett that is an accident waiting to happen with dire consequences for sure.
JohnH

Re: Splendide WD Install

Reply #19 – August 22, 2014, 02:05:29 pm

Quote from: Lon and Cheryl – August 22, 2014, 03:27:24 am

If your doing a new install you might consider a stacked unit with a separate washer and dryer, unless space is very important above the washer.
You can go with a 220V dryer or a LP gas dryer. I chose the 220V option, works great.
I installed Bosch units.

Ditto.
IF I was thinking instead of trashing cash, I should have done the same thing.
Combo's are way to expensive and overrated (especially if you have room to stack.)

Combo unit is nice (but way over rated.) pc

Re: Splendide WD Install

Reply #20 – August 22, 2014, 02:19:12 pm

Quote from: jerrett – August 22, 2014, 08:11:59 am

One thing I would recommend is having a tray made to go under the machine so if there is a leak you will be aware of it. I had a fabrication shop make me one for about $50. It makes it a little more difficult getting the machine in the small area as the tray must be put in first and then the machine. I also have a water alarm inside the pan. I usually check if there is any water in the pan when the machine is used. Those machines can do a lot of damage when leaks occur.

Also I have a water alarm along with a tray at the water hook up which is under the closet floor.

Tray is a great idea.. but,
after having a hose burst (in residence,) I'd replace them with wire reinforced hose too. pc

Re: Splendide WD Install

Reply #21 – August 22, 2014, 02:51:55 pm

Quote from: pocketchange – August 22, 2014, 02:19:12 pm

Tray is a great idea.. but,
after having a hose burst (in residence,) I'd replace them with wire reinforced hose too. pc

Splendide uses a non-standard thread connections on the fill hose. Can't just buy the reinforced ones from the big box stores, unfortunately.

Re: Splendide WD Install

Reply #22 – August 22, 2014, 03:25:32 pm

Although a different year and probably different dimensions to work with, our Washer Dryer install is documented on Barry B's website (should be the first bookmark of any Foretravel owner!
Splendide 2100XC Installation
Don

Re: Splendide WD Install

Reply #23 – August 23, 2014, 08:09:00 am

Our experience while on the boat was that separate washers and dryers made a world of difference. You could be doing both at the same time. The reports we got from others was that combination machines took really long times. You want a vented dryer.

I installed a pair of Danby stackables (You have never heard of them - nether had I) and have been looking for them ever since. They served me well for 7 years.
This on-line store claims to have them.
I have queried and will see.

RV Accessory Store - RV TOY STORE - 1-800-334-5533
RV Accessory Store - RV TOY STORE - 1-800-334-5533

Aside: (in the nature of a 'sea story')
In order to install I had to remove a full length mirror covering the removable full length 3/4 plywood cutout at the side of the stack, and remove the bezel surrounding the emergency hatch above the bed.
Then take the tops off the machines and lower the now 23 5/8" x 23 5/8" machines straight down through the 24"x24" hatch.
Oh, I first had to pull the old ones out the same hatch.

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