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1996 U295 - Window "button" and water system manifold questions

November 14, 2013, 04:34:44 pm

As I mentioned in my other post (and thanks to Brad here), I'm looking at a 1996 U295.  I have a couple of unrelated questions I'd like to ask about.  I debated starting an individual thread for each one, but that seemed like overkill - hope it's okay to do it this way.  I'll try to make sure to put "search worthy" words in so that in case it could be useful to others in future, it's findable.

1) Windows:
Although the 1996 didn't have dual pane windows as standard, apparently this coach was ordered with them new.  They look to be in nice shape, no big snakes, etc.  So, a nice bonus.  One thing has me curious though:  All of the windows (except the small one over the kitchen sink) have these round metal fittings on them (see photo).  Each sliding pane (so two per window) has one of them.  I don't remember seeing them on any other coaches I've looked at (although that's only been a few and was last spring).  The only idea that came to mind was something to somehow ventilate moisture or equalize them somehow?  Perhaps some "earlier" tech for dual pane windows?  I wouldn't mind if they were remote receivers and I could somehow open and close them all from my chair, but I'm guessing probably not

Water system
2) In the bay with the water heater and valves (driver's side, towards the rear), I believe I have seen a manifold block on the other coaches, but this one just has a "blank" expanse of grey carpet.  What would I be "giving up" by not having this?  Was it an option or is it unusual to not have it and it was omitted as a special request on this coach, or...?  (See photo)

Thank you for any insight.

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Re: 1996 U295 - Window "button" and water system manifold questions

Reply #1 – November 14, 2013, 04:46:42 pm

Hi Alex,
  I have a water manifold behind that grey cover. Have you looked behind the panel? The window plugs may have been for a pull of some type. I have never seen this. It might be nice to have a small knob/pull there to help slide your window open, or closed. Just a few guesses! Best of luck.
Raymond

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Re: 1996 U295 - Window "button" and water system manifold questions

Reply #2 – November 14, 2013, 04:50:07 pm

The gray and black waste tanks are probably behind that gray cover. Here's a photo of them in and one with them out. The manifold allows you to isolate different water systems. Nice to have but no big deal. Not sure what those buttons on the glass are? Did you say both windows slide? Haven't seen that.
jor

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Re: 1996 U295 - Window "button" and water system manifold questions

Reply #3 – November 14, 2013, 04:50:55 pm

Aha, no I have not looked behind the panel (the others I remember had the valves, etc. on the outside).  Good suggestion.  I attached a photo from a different coach (1999 U270) showing what I had seen before and assumed was "normal."

On the window "buttons," I don't think it would be for a pull (although not a bad idea) because they are on both "halves" of the window, and I don't think that both halves open (also they seem to open easily with the main handles).  Also, there is one in the door window, which doesn't open at all.

But hey, if you don't know either then at least it's not an obviously stupid question

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Re: 1996 U295 - Window "button" and water system manifold questions

Reply #4 – November 14, 2013, 06:05:03 pm

I think the buttons are the over pressure release buttons on peninsula dual pane windows.

At 10000 feet you could bleed pressure of.  Never needed it.  And never a failure either.

If memory serves me the peninsulas had inert gas in them.  Argon?

High dollar nice windows btw.

Bob

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Re: 1996 U295 - Window "button" and water system manifold questions

Reply #5 – November 14, 2013, 06:09:09 pm

I would have been as stumped as you are.  I would have definitely expected to see the manifold, like in the picture just above this post (and Bob's post).  The picture in the first post would have me scratching my head.  I guess I would pull that panel off, as anything could be back there.

I have no idea about those things on the windows. 

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Re: 1996 U295 - Window "button" and water system manifold questions

Reply #6 – November 14, 2013, 06:53:24 pm

Yup.  They are Peninsulas.  I saw them but could only read the "Pen..." on them, and knew they weren't Creations.  I just could not remember the name.

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Re: 1996 U295 - Window "button" and water system manifold questions

Reply #7 – November 14, 2013, 06:59:21 pm

Alex, my 96 U295 water bay looks the same as this one.

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Re: 1996 U295 - Window "button" and water system manifold questions

Reply #8 – November 14, 2013, 07:02:36 pm

Looks like I have answers to both my questions.  Nifty!  Love the Foreforum.

Thanks!

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