Last week I purchased a lovely motorhome, my first. It is 14 years old, but in terrific condition and with low mileage.

The south of river dealer in Perth was extremely friendly, and helpful - I would have said knowledgeable, BUT! He spent over an hour explaining how every thing worked to this newbie, which I thought was great.  However, in my first few days of ownership (and driving from Perth to Broome), I discovered a lot of what he said was rubbish.

The dealer told me:

• The fridge would run off the 12V battery - it doesn't unless the motor is running. It runs off gas when stationary and not connected to 240V.
• The TV would work off 12V - wrong!
• The roof mounted air-con would work off 12V - no way!
• The cooker has 1 electric hob and 3 gas rings, and he said he'd burnt his hand on the electric hob when running on 12V - no way!

Oh, well, at least the vehicle has turned out to be a good one 

jrk36 wrote:

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Last week I purchased a lovely motorhome, my first. It is 14 years old, but in terrific condition and with low mileage.

The south of river dealer in Perth was extremely friendly, and helpful - I would have said knowledgeable, BUT! He spent over an hour explaining how every thing worked to this newbie, which I thought was great.  However, in my first few days of ownership (and driving from Perth to Broome), I discovered a lot of what he said was rubbish.

The dealer told me:

• The fridge would run off the 12V battery - it doesn't unless the motor is running. It runs off gas when stationary and not connected to 240V.
• The TV would work off 12V - wrong!
• The roof mounted air-con would work off 12V - no way!
• The cooker has 1 electric hob and 3 gas rings, and he said he'd burnt his hand on the electric hob when running on 12V - no way!

Oh, well, at least the vehicle has turned out to be a good one 

 

 

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 Name and Shame the slimy shark, even if you don't mention the Dealer, though I suspect it was the Jayco mob.

Cheers Bob

I know there are sharks in the industry but running a air con and 240 volt hotplate on 12 volt he must be salesman of the year

Peter_n_Margaret wrote:

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Waste of time grizzling here.
Write a letter to his boss explaining the damage he is doing to the business.
Cheers,
Peter

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 Now that's a common-sense suggestion! Probably a waste of time though,as it will be one man's word against that of a good salesman. "Caveat Emptor" comes to mind.Cheers

Bobdown wrote:

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jrk36 wrote:

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Last week I purchased a lovely motorhome, my first. It is 14 years old, but in terrific condition and with low mileage.

The south of river dealer in Perth was extremely friendly, and helpful - I would have said knowledgeable, BUT! He spent over an hour explaining how every thing worked to this newbie, which I thought was great.  However, in my first few days of ownership (and driving from Perth to Broome), I discovered a lot of what he said was rubbish.

The dealer told me:

• The fridge would run off the 12V battery - it doesn't unless the motor is running. It runs off gas when stationary and not connected to 240V.
• The TV would work off 12V - wrong!
• The roof mounted air-con would work off 12V - no way!
• The cooker has 1 electric hob and 3 gas rings, and he said he'd burnt his hand on the electric hob when running on 12V - no way!

Oh, well, at least the vehicle has turned out to be a good one 

 

 

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 Name and Shame the slimy shark, even if you don't mention the Dealer, though I suspect it was the Jayco mob.

Cheers Bob

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 Bought twice from the "Perth Jayco mob" and have had excellent service both times. As Peter said best to contact the boss.

I DID NOT purchase my Motorhome at Jayco.

Peter_n_Margaret wrote:

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Waste of time grizzling here.
Write a letter to his boss explaining the damage he is doing to the business.
Cheers,
Peter

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Not grizzling, just relieving my feelings.

NB: the "Salesman" was the owner of the dealership.

Steel Dog wrote:

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 my Jayco Conquest is the same and the only thing that works off 12v is the TV, 
Regarding the TV it might be something like a fuse or switch somewhere or the 12v socket might need looking at, mine is in a cupboard near the TV, mine has a little RED button that needs to be push in for it to work.
 
Steel Dog

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 The little button is the Aerial booster.

Whenever we have bought a new car a users manual with a comprehensive description on their operation has been supplied. When we bought our van we found a plastic bag in a drawer containing the manufacturers paperwork for the fridge, tv, stove etc.- there was absolutely nothing about the general operation of the van.

During the delivery we received a detailed rundown from the dealer on how everything worked but probably like a lot of other first time van owners it was information overload. Luckily someone had advised us to take our Ipad along and record the handover, amazing how many times we had to refer to that video on our first few trips away. 

Cheers

BB

montie wrote:

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We have delivered a large number of motorhomes over the past few years and the one single problem after sales is the buyers understanding (or lack of) of the operation of the various appliances.
That is even after a 2 hour handover process.

Gaining experience over time using the motorhome usually solves this problem but initially we do find that inexperienced buyers tend to blame the dealer or manufacturer for their lack of knowledge.
Despite our comprehensive handover procedure we still find ourselves fielding questions about the basic operation of the motorhome for a considerable time after the buyer takes delivery.

It's something we expect and are happy to offer practical or phone guidance to those who are experiencing operational problems.

Perhaps the OP should contact the selling dealer for assistance.

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First trip in the motorhome was Perth to home in Broome - 2,200km - not much point in contacting dealer. Some of the information he gave was plain wrong! e.g. "the in-house air con works on 12v"!

I have all the equipment manuals, and worked out the small points I had. What's missing is a general operating guide for the overall van - what to do before driving off in terms of the electricity, gas and grey water. I've still to crawl under the van to check out grey water disposal - how does that work.

BTW: my Fiat Ducato Jayco Conquest has a 240v only TV (again, dealer said it worked off 12v), but this could have been a later addition I guess.

jrk36 wrote:

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montie wrote:

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We have delivered a large number of motorhomes over the past few years and the one single problem after sales is the buyers understanding (or lack of) of the operation of the various appliances.
That is even after a 2 hour handover process.

Gaining experience over time using the motorhome usually solves this problem but initially we do find that inexperienced buyers tend to blame the dealer or manufacturer for their lack of knowledge.
Despite our comprehensive handover procedure we still find ourselves fielding questions about the basic operation of the motorhome for a considerable time after the buyer takes delivery.

It's something we expect and are happy to offer practical or phone guidance to those who are experiencing operational problems.

Perhaps the OP should contact the selling dealer for assistance.

---

First trip in the motorhome was Perth to home in Broome - 2,200km - not much point in contacting dealer. Some of the information he gave was plain wrong! e.g. "the in-house air con works on 12v"!

I have all the equipment manuals, and worked out the small points I had. What's missing is a general operating guide for the overall van - what to do before driving off in terms of the electricity, gas and grey water. I've still to crawl under the van to check out grey water disposal - how does that work.

BTW: my Fiat Ducato Jayco Conquest has a 240v only TV (again, dealer said it worked off 12v), but this could have been a later addition I guess.

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 I obviously have no knowledge of what appliances your particular motorhome has but if it is fitted with an inverter you can run some 240v appliances off your 12v house battery. (as opposed to vehicle battery).

If it has a three way fridge it will run on 12v, 240v or gas depending how you have it set. The fridge does not run off the vehicle battery so it is not necessary to have the motor running to operate the fridge on 12v as it will be connected through the house battery(s).

montie wrote:

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We have delivered a large number of motorhomes over the past few years and the one single problem after sales is the buyers understanding (or lack of) of the operation of the various appliances.
That is even after a 2 hour handover process.

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 And of course you provide a detailed handbook with wiring diagrams for each and every one, so no excuses? 

Cheers,

Peter

Peter_n_Margaret wrote:

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montie wrote:

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We have delivered a large number of motorhomes over the past few years and the one single problem after sales is the buyers understanding (or lack of) of the operation of the various appliances.
That is even after a 2 hour handover process.

---

 And of course you provide a detailed handbook with wiring diagrams for each and every one, so no excuses? 

Cheers,

Peter

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 Peter,

We are specialist used motorhome and campervan dealers so the answer is obviously no because each one has different appliances and layouts and optional extras fitted. It would not be practical to provide a manual for each individual motorhome, we do however provide a comprehensive handover procedure that explains the operation of that specific motorhome accompanied with an instruction sheet that explains the use of the common items such as awnings, fridges etc.,

To my knowledge no new motorhome or caravan manufacturer in Australia provides a dedicated user manual for each individual unit.. Some manufacturers provide wiring diagrams online or on request.

I can't help wondering why any motorhome buyer who was not a qualified electrician would want a wiring diagram. It is usually provided for use by service departments or electricians. Most buyers have trouble learning how to use the fridge or empty the grey water tank which is understandable, but I can't see why they would need a wiring diagram.

Peter_n_Margaret wrote:

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montie wrote:

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We have delivered a large number of motorhomes over the past few years and the one single problem after sales is the buyers understanding (or lack of) of the operation of the various appliances.
That is even after a 2 hour handover process.

---

 And of course you provide a detailed handbook with wiring diagrams for each and every one, so no excuses? 

Cheers,

Peter

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 No disrespect to any Motorhome dealers

But...

Peter I nearly fell of my chair laughing, at your reply

One of the reasons I would not recommend a Jayco Conquest, was that I was unable to purchase, a wiring diagram from the main Jayco people in Perth
Their excuse was that, if they kept a wiring diagram for my model, then they would have to keep a wiring diagram for all models
This was after they looked up their computer, to print out a wiring diagram for me, as I stood there with my plastic card, to pay, whatever amount they wanted
I have since found out, by reading this forum, that some other manufactures, do not have wiring diagrams

The Belmont Bear wrote:

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Whenever we have bought a new car a users manual with a comprehensive description on their operation has been supplied. When we bought our van we found a plastic bag in a drawer containing the manufacturers paperwork for the fridge, tv, stove etc.- there was absolutely nothing about the general operation of the van.

During the delivery we received a detailed rundown from the dealer on how everything worked but probably like a lot of other first time van owners it was information overload. Luckily someone had advised us to take our Ipad along and record the handover, amazing how many times we had to refer to that video on our first few trips away. 

Cheers

BB

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 What BB has said is correct, I have underlined the particular phrase. Having been a 4wd instructor the info overload often happens to those that are newbie's . May I suggest to the original poster to find other motor home owners and chat to them to gain knowledge of this type of vehicle, and at the same time you would get many FRIENDLY hints.

jrk36 wrote:

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montie wrote:

---

We have delivered a large number of motorhomes over the past few years and the one single problem after sales is the buyers understanding (or lack of) of the operation of the various appliances.
That is even after a 2 hour handover process.

Gaining experience over time using the motorhome usually solves this problem but initially we do find that inexperienced buyers tend to blame the dealer or manufacturer for their lack of knowledge.
Despite our comprehensive handover procedure we still find ourselves fielding questions about the basic operation of the motorhome for a considerable time after the buyer takes delivery.

It's something we expect and are happy to offer practical or phone guidance to those who are experiencing operational problems.

Perhaps the OP should contact the selling dealer for assistance.

---

First trip in the motorhome was Perth to home in Broome - 2,200km - not much point in contacting dealer. Some of the information he gave was plain wrong! e.g. "the in-house air con works on 12v"!

I have all the equipment manuals, and worked out the small points I had. What's missing is a general operating guide for the overall van - what to do before driving off in terms of the electricity, gas and grey water. I've still to crawl under the van to check out grey water disposal - how does that work.

BTW: my Fiat Ducato Jayco Conquest has a 240v only TV (again, dealer said it worked off 12v), but this could have been a later addition I guess.

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Hi jrk36

I have the same year, but different configuration, Fiat Ducato Jayco Conquest as you do, I will try and answer some of your questions

what to do before driving off in terms of the electricity, gas and grey water.

I always switch my gas bottle off, before driving
The method behind my madness, is that in any accident, where the gas line is damaged, gas will escape and possibly ignite, until the bottle is switched off

I always empty my grey water tank, before driving, just to lighten the load
But...If I know that the next stop will see me empting my toilet cassette, at a dump point which has no water, then I leave about one quarter of the grey water, in the tank
I then use that grey water, to clean up the dump point, before and after I have emptied my cassette

I've still to crawl under the van to check out grey water disposal - how does that work.

On my model, the grey water tank has a one inch (25 mm), plastic type valve, to drain the water. Same type valve as you can buy from Bunnings reticulation section
It is on the passenger side, between the rear wheel, and the rear of the motorhome
If you look at my Avatar, you may just be able to see it

Hope that this info is useful to you

montie wrote:

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To my knowledge no new motorhome or caravan manufacturer in Australia provides a dedicated user manual for each individual unit.. 

 

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And therein lays the problem. 

What a disgusting admission. There is absolutely no defence for that.

Cheers,

Peter

Peter_n_Margaret wrote:

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montie wrote:

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To my knowledge no new motorhome or caravan manufacturer in Australia provides a dedicated user manual for each individual unit.. 

 

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And therein lays the problem. 

What a disgusting admission. There is absolutely no defence for that.

Cheers,

Peter

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 Hey Pete, take your bandwagon to the people who might listen to you, which I doubt after that uneducated post, and see if you can convince manufacturers to comply with your standard.

I'm a dealer, not a manufacturer!

I don't make the rules mate, I just play by them, so maybe pull your head in and read my posts.

Peter_n_Margaret wrote:

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Wonderful attitude Montie. No wonder the industry is deservedly held in contempt.
Cheers,
Peter

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 Pete,

As a dealer my attitude over 35 years in the industry has served me and my business very well.

And still is!

Keyboard warriors have not changed that especially those who have absolutely no first hand experience. You sound like an Irishman with an idea!

Peter_n_Margaret wrote:

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Wonderful attitude Montie. No wonder the industry is deservedly held in contempt.
Cheers,
Peter

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 Peter ... A bit dissappointed at your personal attack.   Surely outside the rules of the forum.

Both of you guys frequently make valuable contributions to the forum.  It is a pity to see this sort of exchange.

Please 'kiss' & make up.   Or at least cease & desist.  It would be sad to see either of you barred.

BTW ..  I drew up a wiring diagram for my old Jayco Westport.  It makes me feel comfortable to have one but not of any great use so far.

Cupie wrote:

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Peter_n_Margaret wrote:

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Wonderful attitude Montie. No wonder the industry is deservedly held in contempt.
Cheers,
Peter

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 Peter ... A bit dissappointed at your personal attack.   Surely outside the rules of the forum.

Both of you guys frequently make valuable contributions to the forum.  It is a pity to see this sort of exchange.

 Please 'kiss' & make up.   Or at least cease & desist.  It would be sad to see either of you barred.

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 My thoughts exactly,Cupie.Both these guys have a wealth of the knowledge which can be gained only from experience,and they both make valuable contributions to the forum.However,I was more surprised than disappointed,as they have differing primary fields of expertise.Anyway,I sincerely hope that they both continue to post,as their input is highly valued by many.Cheers

Tony Bev wrote:

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Hi jrk36

I have the same year, but different configuration, Fiat Ducato Jayco Conquest as you do, I will try and answer some of your questions

what to do before driving off in terms of the electricity, gas and grey water.

I always switch my gas bottle off, before driving
The method behind my madness, is that in any accident, where the gas line is damaged, gas will escape and possibly ignite, until the bottle is switched off

I always empty my grey water tank, before driving, just to lighten the load
But...If I know that the next stop will see me empting my toilet cassette, at a dump point which has no water, then I leave about one quarter of the grey water, in the tank
I then use that grey water, to clean up the dump point, before and after I have emptied my cassette

I've still to crawl under the van to check out grey water disposal - how does that work.

On my model, the grey water tank has a one inch (25 mm), plastic type valve, to drain the water. Same type valve as you can buy from Bunnings reticulation section
It is on the passenger side, between the rear wheel, and the rear of the motorhome
If you look at my Avatar, you may just be able to see it

Hope that this info is useful to you

 

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 Thanks Tony - useful advice yet again. Yep, I do have the same valve towards end of grey water piping.