Country Coach Restoration, Repair & Parts Forums => Country Coach Archive => Topic started by: Jim Spivey on October 22, 2006, 02:52:21 pm
Title: Vehicle Systems, Hydro Hot or Aqua
Post by: Jim Spivey on October 22, 2006, 02:52:21 pm
Yahoo Message Number: 26265 (http://groups.yahoo.com/neo/groups/Country-Coach-Owners/conversations/messages/26265)I have a Allure 470 #31432. Recently I was on the road, and my Hydor Hot stopped working. I found it to be low on coolant, "light indication on board". I added Peak RV coolant and the unit took off. However, over the course of the next 20 days I used almost six gallons.
On return I found that I had used the wrong coolant, needed boiler coolant. My questions is has anyone else had this issue? Upon looking for drain, and reading manuals, it is not clear to me where it is, any help here? I am told it is plastic, and is about the only leak source. t I see no leaking when unit is running, and no coolant on the floor. I am reluctant to take it back to dealer, as I have never heard of this situation and would like to get some additional input. Thanks
Title: Re: Vehicle Systems, Hydro Hot or Aqua
Post by: Herb Strandberg on October 22, 2006, 06:31:15 pm
Yahoo Message Number: 26271 (http://groups.yahoo.com/neo/groups/Country-Coach-Owners/conversations/messages/26271)I am sorry, but I cannot comment on the leak as my unit has been consuming very little (maybe almost none), but never-the-less I topped off the plastic reservoir when it was hot to the upper hot fill line with about a pint mixed 50-50 with water. I have had the coach three months now.
My point of this post is to re-enforce the need for BOILER Antifreeze. Fortunately I was able to pick up a gallon when I had my alternator serviced in Littleton CO. They said that not many places seem to carry it. While the bottle says to add it straight, the repair shop AND HydroHot manual says to mix 50-50 with water. It is "Camco Boiler -100 degree Antifreeze - Antifreeze for hydronic heating and cooling systems".
Since there is apparently not much availability, I would suggest getting a gallon to have on hand -- when you get a chance.
Herb
2007 Allure # 31466
Quote from: reeljr65
Title: Re: Vehicle Systems, Hydro Hot or Aqua
Post by: Sue on October 22, 2006, 06:37:31 pm
Yahoo Message Number: 26272 (http://groups.yahoo.com/neo/groups/Country-Coach-Owners/conversations/messages/26272)There is an end panel that comes off. Unscrew the screws holding it on. On our coach this panel is towards the front of the unit. Inside there should be some type of drain. We had a leak in our HH on our previous brand of MH. There was a plastic fitting that a hose attached to that went into the unit. This plastic piece cracked and we developed a slow leak, but it took months to finally see antifreeze on the ground. It was all being absorbed into the insulation around the unit. It finally got saturated enough to start dripping on the ground. We had the coach to Vehicle Systems and they replaced this plastic fitting with a brass one. They made the comment that this was a weak point and all the new units were coming out with the brass fitting. So maybe this might not be the issue with yours since by now the units should have this upgrade. Good luck.
Sue
05, 42' CC Allure quad slide #31254
Title: Re: Vehicle Systems, Hydro Hot or Aqua
Post by: R D Vanderslice on October 22, 2006, 10:20:20 pm
Yahoo Message Number: 26276 (http://groups.yahoo.com/neo/groups/Country-Coach-Owners/conversations/messages/26276)Herb, I had no idea you were supposed to mix the Camco boiler fluid with water. Mine was down about a gallon due to a leak at a hose clamp and after I tightened the clamp I filled it with one gallon non diluted. I'm sure there is no harm doing it this way, but I've never heard of diluting the premix. I guess I need to read the HydroHot Manual. My coach is 15 months old and I have not had to add any more boiler fluid, but do have a gallon extra if I need it. Did you dilute it with distilled water?
R. D. Vanderslice 06 Allure 470 - 31294
Herb & Melitta Strandberg wrote:
Title: Re: Vehicle Systems, Hydro Hot or Aqua
Post by: James Spivey on October 23, 2006, 12:06:46 am
Yahoo Message Number: 26284 (http://groups.yahoo.com/neo/groups/Country-Coach-Owners/conversations/messages/26284)Thanks, I found a leak today, and I am off to buy the "boiler antifreeze", the Camco name is "Boiler Antifreeze-100" which in itself is a little confusing. HOWEVER, I FOUND ONE MENTION OF MIXING, AND NO OTHER. I looked in manual and read installation of 2/3 water 1/3 antifreeze.. Did you call Vehicle Systems? Spivey Allure 470 31432. Manual does not mention distilled water. I will post the answer from Vehicle Systems AM 10-23
Title: Re: Vehicle Systems, Hydro Hot or Aqua
Post by: James Spivey on October 23, 2006, 12:09:20 am
Yahoo Message Number: 26285 (http://groups.yahoo.com/neo/groups/Country-Coach-Owners/conversations/messages/26285)Herb thanks I posted my answer on a reply, hope you get it. I just want to make sure, I found 2/3 1/3 mixture. (2/3 water) I am calling Vehicle Systems in the AM and will post answer.
Title: Re: Vehicle Systems, Hydro Hot or Aqua
Post by: John Fraser on October 23, 2006, 01:06:09 am
Yahoo Message Number: 26286 (http://groups.yahoo.com/neo/groups/Country-Coach-Owners/conversations/messages/26286)James, I am not sure what boiler antifreeze is but you should be using non toxic antifreeze. The older aquahot systems use regular antifreeze say from NAPA mixed 50/50. John F.
Quote from: James Spivey
>
Thanks, I found a leak today, and I am off to buy the "boiler
antifreeze",
Quote
the Camco name is "Boiler Antifreeze-100" which in itself is a
little
Quote
confusing. HOWEVER, I FOUND ONE MENTION OF MIXING, AND NO OTHER.
I looked
Quote
in manual and read installation of 2/3 water 1/3 antifreeze.. Did
you call
Quote
Vehicle Systems? Spivey Allure 470 31432. Manual does not
mention
Quote
distilled water. I will post the answer from Vehicle Systems AM
10-23
Quote
>
_____ > From: Country-Coach-Owners@yahoogroups.com (Country-Coach-Owners@yahoogroups.com) > [mailto:Country-Coach-Owners@yahoogroups.com (Country-Coach-Owners@yahoogroups.com)] On Behalf Of R. D.
Vanderslice
Quote
Sent: Sunday, October 22, 2006 7:16 PM > To: Country-Coach-Owners@yahoogroups.com (Country-Coach-Owners@yahoogroups.com) > Subject: Re: [Country-Coach-Owners] Re: Vehicle Systems, Hydro Hot
or Aqua
Quote
>
Herb, I had no idea you were supposed to mix the Camco boiler
fluid with
Quote
water. Mine was down about a gallon due to a leak at a hose clamp
and after
Quote
I tightened the clamp I filled it with one gallon non diluted.
I'm sure
Quote
there is no harm doing it this way, but I've never heard of
diluting the
Quote
premix. I guess I need to read the HydroHot Manual. My coach is
15 months
Quote
old and I have not had to add any more boiler fluid, but do have a
gallon
Quote
extra if I need it. Did you dilute it with distilled water? >
R. D. Vanderslice
06 Allure 470 - 31294
Herb & Melitta Strandberg wrote: >
I am sorry, but I cannot comment on the leak as my unit has been > consuming very little (maybe almost none), but never-the-less I > topped off the plastic reservoir when it was hot to the upper hot > fill line with about a pint mixed 50-50 with water. I have had the > coach three months now.
My point of this post is to re-enforce the need for BOILER > Antifreeze. Fortunately I was able to pick up a gallon when I had > my alternator serviced in Littleton CO. They said that not many > places seem to carry it. While the bottle says to add it straight, > the repair shop AND HydroHot manual says to mix 50-50 with water. It is "Camco Boiler -100 degree Antifreeze - Antifreeze for
hydronic
Quote
heating and cooling systems".
Since there is apparently not much availability, I would suggest > getting a gallon to have on hand -- when you get a chance.
Herb
2007 Allure # 31466
--- In Country-Coach-
40yahoogroups.com>
Title: Re: Vehicle Systems, Hydro Hot or Aqua
Post by: James Spivey on October 23, 2006, 01:25:18 am
Yahoo Message Number: 26287 (http://groups.yahoo.com/neo/groups/Country-Coach-Owners/conversations/messages/26287)Vehicle Systems has a Service Bulletin on this subject, I downloaded it from web site. There are only three sources for "Boiler" antifreeze. AMSOIL, SAFE-T-THERM, BOILER ANTIFREEZE-100. MADE by Camco. The later is the only one I can find. I understand GRAS and other warnings, what this stuff has that "PEAK RV" does not have I am not clear on. But in a call two weeks ago Vehicle Systems told me to get that out or they would void the warranty. What I am still not clear on is ratio of mixture. Will post answer AM 10-23
Title: Re: Vehicle Systems, Hydro Hot or Aqua
Post by: Herb Strandberg on October 23, 2006, 08:37:08 am
I was going to call the company a month ago, but I found in my manual the same instructions the dealer told me - 50-50 mix. I specifically asked the dealer about distilled water, and he said to just use tap water. We must have different manuals.
Herb
2007 Allure #31466
Quote from: James Spivey
Title: Re: Vehicle Systems, Hydro Hot or Aqua
Post by: R D Vanderslice on October 23, 2006, 10:47:28 am
Yahoo Message Number: 26291 (http://groups.yahoo.com/neo/groups/Country-Coach-Owners/conversations/messages/26291)Didn't call Vehicle Systems. Please post what they say and if there is a need to use distilled water. Thanks,
R. D. Vanderslice
06 Allure 470 - 31294.
Title: Re: Vehicle Systems, Hydro Hot or Aqua
Post by: Ray G_01 on October 23, 2006, 11:37:54 am
Yahoo Message Number: 26292 (http://groups.yahoo.com/neo/groups/Country-Coach-Owners/conversations/messages/26292)For reference, I believe that GRAS stands for "Generally regarded as Safe." If anti freeze happens to mix with water system in the coach, it's not suppose to be deadly, plus some other attributes, I'm sure.
Lots of heating systems in the northland use water and steam heat and thus use the boiler anti freeze..(according to "This old House") Ha Last time I got any, CCI had the best price at around $19.00 a gallon at the rallies. Some RV dealers are charging $49.00 a gallon. My 2005 Allure book says nothing about mixing at any ratio. Actually, don't know how they could without knowing the concentrate of what you buy.???
When the Vehicle systems guy did an update on my unit he used it straight from the bottle to top off. But would be real interested in what Vehicle Systems are now saying....
Best Regards
Ray and Rue 05 Allure 31176
Quote from: James Spivey
>
Vehicle Systems has a Service Bulletin on this subject, I
downloaded it from
Quote
web site. There are only three sources for "Boiler" antifreeze.
AMSOIL,
Quote
SAFE-T-THERM, BOILER ANTIFREEZE-100. MADE by Camco. The later is
the only
Quote
one I can find. I understand GRAS and other warnings, what this
stuff has
Quote
that "PEAK RV" does not have I am not clear on. But in a call two
weeks ago
Quote
Vehicle Systems told me to get that out or they would void the
warranty.
Quote
What I am still not clear on is ratio of mixture. Will post answer
AM 10-23
Quote
>
_____ > From: Country-Coach-Owners@yahoogroups.com (Country-Coach-Owners@yahoogroups.com) > [mailto:Country-Coach-Owners@yahoogroups.com (Country-Coach-Owners@yahoogroups.com)] On Behalf Of John
Fraser
Quote
Sent: Sunday, October 22, 2006 10:00 PM > To: Country-Coach-Owners@yahoogroups.com (Country-Coach-Owners@yahoogroups.com) > Subject: [Country-Coach-Owners] Re: Vehicle Systems, Hydro Hot or
Aqua
Quote
>
James, I am not sure what boiler antifreeze is but you should be > using non toxic antifreeze. The older aquahot systems use regular > antifreeze say from NAPA mixed 50/50. John F.
[quote author=James Spivey"
>
> Thanks, I found a leak today, and I am off to buy the "boiler > antifreeze",
> the Camco name is "Boiler Antifreeze-100" which in itself is a > little
> confusing. HOWEVER, I FOUND ONE MENTION OF MIXING, AND NO OTHER. I looked
> in manual and read installation of 2/3 water 1/3 antifreeze.. Did > you call
> Vehicle Systems? Spivey Allure 470 31432. Manual does not > mention
> distilled water. I will post the answer from Vehicle Systems AM > 10-23 > > > > >
> Herb, I had no idea you were supposed to mix the Camco boiler > fluid with
> water. Mine was down about a gallon due to a leak at a hose clamp > and after
> I tightened the clamp I filled it with one gallon non diluted. I'm sure
> there is no harm doing it this way, but I've never heard of > diluting the
> premix. I guess I need to read the HydroHot Manual. My coach is > 15 months
> old and I have not had to add any more boiler fluid, but do have
a
Quote
gallon
> extra if I need it. Did you dilute it with distilled water? > >
> R. D. Vanderslice >
> 06 Allure 470 - 31294 > > > >
> Herb & Melitta Strandberg wrote: > >
> I am sorry, but I cannot comment on the leak as my unit has been > > consuming very little (maybe almost none), but never-the-less I > > topped off the plastic reservoir when it was hot to the upper hot > > fill line with about a pint mixed 50-50 with water. I have had
the
Quote
coach three months now. >
> My point of this post is to re-enforce the need for BOILER > > Antifreeze. Fortunately I was able to pick up a gallon when I had > > my alternator serviced in Littleton CO. They said that not many > > places seem to carry it. While the bottle says to add it
straight,
Quote
the repair shop AND HydroHot manual says to mix 50-50 with water. > It is "Camco Boiler -100 degree Antifreeze - Antifreeze for > hydronic
> heating and cooling systems". >
> Since there is apparently not much availability, I would suggest > > getting a gallon to have on hand -- when you get a chance. >
> Herb
> 2007 Allure # 31466 >
> --- In Country-Coach- > 40yahoogroups.com> > > Owners@yahoogroups.
com, "reeljr65"
Title: Re: Vehicle Systems, Hydro Hot or Aqua
Post by: Countrycoachbrad on October 23, 2006, 12:17:40 pm
Yahoo Message Number: 26293 (http://groups.yahoo.com/neo/groups/Country-Coach-Owners/conversations/messages/26293)We have slowly been losing the coolant in our Hydro hot over the summer. The leak got worse in September and began going through large quantities of boiler antifreeze. We began communicating with the techs at Vehicle Systems and learned the following:
1) The Hydro Hot boilers had plastic drain valves with a plastic fitting that screwed into the boiler. This has been a problem and VS has now eliminated the plastic fitting into the boiler in favor of a standard cast iron nipple. They recommend changing those units that have the plastic fitting. We changed ours rather than driving 1300 miles to Colorado, but it was a semi-bear for tool impaired mechanics.
2) The boiler must be filled with the GRAS boiler antifreeze referred to in this post. While tap water may be used for a short period, the solution should be made with distilled water for long term use.
3) The mixture depends on what your outside temperatures may be, but for proper protection and heat transfer the VS folks recommend a mixture of 50/50.
4) The Camco Boiler 100 antifreeze is available from several sources including Vehicle Systems in Fort Lupton, CO and online directly from the manufacturer (CAMCO). The manufacturer also states that many True Value hardward stores carry this product, but I called several and all of they have is the standard Camco automotive antifreeze and not the Boiler stuff. We had a couple of gallons shipped to Yuma, can't remember the price.
Hope this helps.
Dick B
04 Intrigue #11830
Quote from: James Spivey
>
Thanks, I found a leak today, and I am off to buy the "boiler
antifreeze",
Quote
the Camco name is "Boiler Antifreeze-100" which in itself is a little > confusing. HOWEVER, I FOUND ONE MENTION OF MIXING, AND NO OTHER. I
looked
Quote
in manual and read installation of 2/3 water 1/3 antifreeze.. Did
you call
Quote
Vehicle Systems? Spivey Allure 470 31432. Manual does not mention > distilled water. I will post the answer from Vehicle Systems AM 10-23 >
_____ > From: Country-Coach-Owners@yahoogroups.com (Country-Coach-Owners@yahoogroups.com) > [mailto:Country-Coach-Owners@yahoogroups.com (Country-Coach-Owners@yahoogroups.com)] On Behalf Of R. D.
Vanderslice
Quote
Sent: Sunday, October 22, 2006 7:16 PM > To: Country-Coach-Owners@yahoogroups.com (Country-Coach-Owners@yahoogroups.com) > Subject: Re: [Country-Coach-Owners] Re: Vehicle Systems, Hydro Hot
or Aqua
Quote
>
> Herb, I had no idea you were supposed to mix the Camco boiler fluid with > water. Mine was down about a gallon due to a leak at a hose clamp
and after
Quote
I tightened the clamp I filled it with one gallon non diluted. I'm sure > there is no harm doing it this way, but I've never heard of diluting the > premix. I guess I need to read the HydroHot Manual. My coach is 15
months
Quote
old and I have not had to add any more boiler fluid, but do have a
gallon
Title: Re: Vehicle Systems, Hydro Hot or Aqua
Post by: James Spivey on October 23, 2006, 01:14:31 pm
Yahoo Message Number: 26294 (http://groups.yahoo.com/neo/groups/Country-Coach-Owners/conversations/messages/26294)Thanks I have a call in but you have answered my questions. Did Vehicle System send you the parts, or did you just get them at the hardware store? I can't find the drain so I know it must be a bear; can you give me an idea where it is? Thanks
Title: Re: Vehicle Systems, Hydro Hot or Aqua
Post by: R D Vanderslice on October 23, 2006, 01:40:03 pm
Yahoo Message Number: 26295 (http://groups.yahoo.com/neo/groups/Country-Coach-Owners/conversations/messages/26295)When I picked up my coach at CC it was about a half gallon low on boiler fluid. They also topped it off with straight Camco boiler fluid and gave me the remaining half gallon IN case I needed it in the future. They didn't dilute it or mention diluting it 50/50 or any other formula.
R. D. Vanderslice 06 Allure 470 - 31294
Title: Re: Vehicle Systems, Hydro Hot or Aqua
Post by: Countrycoachbrad on October 23, 2006, 02:50:55 pm
Yahoo Message Number: 26299 (http://groups.yahoo.com/neo/groups/Country-Coach-Owners/conversations/messages/26299)Unplug the wiring harness to the Hydro Hot after turning off both the electric and the gas switches inside the coach.
Pull the cover off the HH (4 screws) and move the 14 miles of extra wiring out of your way. You will see a plastic drain value going into the bottom of the Hydro Hot. You will also need to unplug a couple of additional wires just to get them out of your way. Go to the hardware store and pick up a 2.5" nipple and a brass ball valve with a lever, some teflon tape, teflon paste (they use both). The hard part is getting big hands in there to remove the old plastic fitting. The existing plastic valve has a quick release fitting with the nipple that you push and turn till it releases. Then you need to back out the old nipple from the boiler. The perfect tool for this was a large allen wrench (I think it was 3/4 inch)inserted in the quick release female coupling. Be sure and position new ball value so that the lever will turn when you want to drain the tank. All of your missing coolant is dripping through the bottom of the unit onto the HH exhaust pipe, but you cannot see the leak from inside. I really have no mechanic skills but somehow got through it. Adios.
Quote from: James Spivey
> > Thanks I have a call in but you have answered my questions. Did Vehicle > System send you the parts, or did you just get them at the hardware
store?
Quote
I can't find the drain so I know it must be a bear; can you give me
an idea
Quote
where it is? Thanks
_____ > From: Country-Coach-Owners@yahoogroups.com (Country-Coach-Owners@yahoogroups.com) > [mailto:Country-Coach-Owners@yahoogroups.com (Country-Coach-Owners@yahoogroups.com)] On Behalf Of
countrycoachbrad
Quote
Sent: Monday, October 23, 2006 9:11 AM > To: Country-Coach-Owners@yahoogroups.com (Country-Coach-Owners@yahoogroups.com) > Subject: [Country-Coach-Owners] Re: Vehicle Systems, Hydro Hot or Aqua >
We have slowly been losing the coolant in our Hydro hot over the > summer. The leak got worse in September and began going through large > quantities of boiler antifreeze. We began communicating with the techs > at Vehicle Systems and learned the following: >
1) The Hydro Hot boilers had plastic drain valves with a plastic > fitting that screwed into the boiler. This has been a problem and VS > has now eliminated the plastic fitting into the boiler in favor of a > standard cast iron nipple. They recommend changing those units that > have the plastic fitting. We changed ours rather than driving 1300 > miles to Colorado, but it was a semi-bear for tool impaired mechanics. > 2) The boiler must be filled with the GRAS boiler antifreeze referred > to in this post. While tap water may be used for a short period, the > solution should be made with distilled water for long term use. > 3) The mixture depends on what your outside temperatures may be, but > for proper protection and heat transfer the VS folks recommend a > mixture of 50/50. > 4) The Camco Boiler 100 antifreeze is available from several sources > including Vehicle Systems in Fort Lupton, CO and online directly from > the manufacturer (CAMCO). The manufacturer also states that many True > Value hardward stores carry this product, but I called several and all > of they have is the standard Camco automotive antifreeze and not the > Boiler stuff. We had a couple of gallons shipped to Yuma, can't > remember the price.
Hope this helps.
Dick B
04 Intrigue #11830
[quote author=James Spivey"
>
> Thanks, I found a leak today, and I am off to buy the "boiler > antifreeze",
> the Camco name is "Boiler Antifreeze-100" which in itself is a little > > confusing. HOWEVER, I FOUND ONE MENTION OF MIXING, AND NO OTHER. I > looked
> in manual and read installation of 2/3 water 1/3 antifreeze.. Did > you call
> Vehicle Systems? Spivey Allure 470 31432. Manual does not mention > > distilled water. I will post the answer from Vehicle Systems AM 10-23 > > > > > >
Owners@yahoogroups.com (Owners@yahoogroups.com)] On Behalf Of R. D. Vanderslice
> Sent: Sunday, October 22, 2006 7:16 PM > > To: Country-Coach-
Owners@yahoogroups.com (Owners@yahoogroups.com) > > Subject: Re: [Country-Coach-Owners] Re: Vehicle Systems, Hydro Hot > or Aqua > > >
> Herb, I had no idea you were supposed to mix the Camco boiler
fluid with
Quote
water. Mine was down about a gallon due to a leak at a hose clamp > and after
> I tightened the clamp I filled it with one gallon non diluted. I'm
sure
Quote
there is no harm doing it this way, but I've never heard of
diluting the
Title: Re: Vehicle Systems, Hydro Hot or Aqua
Post by: James Spivey on October 23, 2006, 06:17:54 pm
Yahoo Message Number: 26303 (http://groups.yahoo.com/neo/groups/Country-Coach-Owners/conversations/messages/26303)Thanks Sue, I am on to a plastic drain valve, now just a matter of parts and this case will be closed. Thanks for the post.
Title: Re: Vehicle Systems, Hydro Hot or Aqua
Post by: James Spivey on October 23, 2006, 06:21:53 pm
Yahoo Message Number: 26304 (http://groups.yahoo.com/neo/groups/Country-Coach-Owners/conversations/messages/26304)Thanks a bunch, I am on it. I know what you are talking about, and I think I will try a pipe tap, and then the Allen. I just do not have an Allen that big. I want to make sure I express my appreciation for your time and detailed account. I just could not see the valve, but there were some wires, I am on it now, and again thanks very much. I am buying the beers!!!!
Title: Re: Vehicle Systems, Hydro Hot or Aqua
Post by: Countrycoachbrad on October 23, 2006, 07:06:23 pm
Yahoo Message Number: 26306 (http://groups.yahoo.com/neo/groups/Country-Coach-Owners/conversations/messages/26306)You are welcome. The tech guy at VS said some needle nose vise grips would work almost as well as the allen wrench. It will take almost 5 gallons of coolant/water mix to fill the boiler and the overflow bottle. Good luck. Any chance of some Willamette Valey Pinot Noir?
Quote from: James Spivey
> > Thanks a bunch, I am on it. I know what you are talking about, and
I think
Quote
I will try a pipe tap, and then the Allen. I just do not have an
Allen that
Quote
big. I want to make sure I express my appreciation for your time and > detailed account. I just could not see the valve, but there were some > wires, I am on it now, and again thanks very much. I am buying the > beers!!!!
_____ > From: Country-Coach-Owners@yahoogroups.com (Country-Coach-Owners@yahoogroups.com) > [mailto:Country-Coach-Owners@yahoogroups.com (Country-Coach-Owners@yahoogroups.com)] On Behalf Of
countrycoachbrad
Quote
Sent: Monday, October 23, 2006 11:44 AM > To: Country-Coach-Owners@yahoogroups.com (Country-Coach-Owners@yahoogroups.com) > Subject: [Country-Coach-Owners] Re: Vehicle Systems, Hydro Hot or Aqua >
> Unplug the wiring harness to the Hydro Hot after turning off both the > electric and the gas switches inside the coach. > Pull the cover off the HH (4 screws) and move the 14 miles of extra > wiring out of your way. You will see a plastic drain value going into > the bottom of the Hydro Hot. You will also need to unplug a couple of > additional wires just to get them out of your way. Go to the hardware store and pick up a 2.5" nipple and a brass ball > valve with a lever, some teflon tape, teflon paste (they use both). The hard part is getting big hands in there to remove the old plastic > fitting. The existing plastic valve has a quick release fitting with > the nipple that you push and turn till it releases. Then you need to > back out the old nipple from the boiler. The perfect tool for this was > a large allen wrench (I think it was 3/4 inch)inserted in the quick > release female coupling. Be sure and position new ball value so that > the lever will turn when you want to drain the tank. All of your > missing coolant is dripping through the bottom of the unit onto the HH > exhaust pipe, but you cannot see the leak from inside. I really have > no mechanic skills but somehow got through it. Adios.
[quote author=James Spivey"
>
> Thanks I have a call in but you have answered my questions. Did
Vehicle
Quote
System send you the parts, or did you just get them at the hardware > store?
> I can't find the drain so I know it must be a bear; can you give me > an idea
Owners@yahoogroups.com (Owners@yahoogroups.com)] On Behalf Of > countrycoachbrad
> Sent: Monday, October 23, 2006 9:11 AM > > To: Country-Coach-
Owners@yahoogroups.com (Owners@yahoogroups.com) > > Subject: [Country-Coach-Owners] Re: Vehicle Systems, Hydro Hot or Aqua > > > >
> We have slowly been losing the coolant in our Hydro hot over the > > summer. The leak got worse in September and began going through large > > quantities of boiler antifreeze. We began communicating with the techs > > at Vehicle Systems and learned the following: > >
> 1) The Hydro Hot boilers had plastic drain valves with a plastic > > fitting that screwed into the boiler. This has been a problem and VS > > has now eliminated the plastic fitting into the boiler in favor of a > > standard cast iron nipple. They recommend changing those units that > > have the plastic fitting. We changed ours rather than driving 1300 > > miles to Colorado, but it was a semi-bear for tool impaired mechanics. >
> 2) The boiler must be filled with the GRAS boiler antifreeze referred > > to in this post. While tap water may be used for a short period, the > > solution should be made with distilled water for long term use. >
> 3) The mixture depends on what your outside temperatures may be, but > > for proper protection and heat transfer the VS folks recommend a > > mixture of 50/50. >
> 4) The Camco Boiler 100 antifreeze is available from several sources > > including Vehicle Systems in Fort Lupton, CO and online directly from > > the manufacturer (CAMCO). The manufacturer also states that many True > > Value hardward stores carry this product, but I called several and all > > of they have is the standard Camco automotive antifreeze and not the > > Boiler stuff. We had a couple of gallons shipped to Yuma, can't > > remember the price. >
> Hope this helps. >
> Dick B
> 04 Intrigue > #11830 >
> --- In Country-Coach-
> Owners@yahoogroups. com, "James
Spivey"
Quote
wrote: > >
> > Thanks, I found a leak today, and I am off to buy the "boiler > > antifreeze",
> > the Camco name is "Boiler Antifreeze-100" which in itself is a
little
Quote
> confusing. HOWEVER, I FOUND ONE MENTION OF MIXING, AND NO OTHER. I > > looked
> > in manual and read installation of 2/3 water 1/3 antifreeze.. Did > > you call
> > Vehicle Systems? Spivey Allure 470 31432. Manual does not mention > > > distilled water. I will post the answer from Vehicle Systems AM
10-23
Quote
> > > > > > > > >
> > _____ > >
> > From: Country-Coach- > Owners@yahoogroups. com > > [mailto:Country-Coach-
Quote
Owners@yahoogroups. com] On
Behalf Of R.
Quote
D. > Vanderslice
> > Sent: Sunday, October 22, 2006 7:16 PM > > > To: Country-Coach- > Owners@yahoogroups. com
> > Subject: Re: [Country-Coach-Owners] Re: Vehicle Systems, Hydro Hot > > or Aqua > > > > > >
> > Herb, I had no idea you were supposed to mix the Camco boiler > fluid with
> > water. Mine was down about a gallon due to a leak at a hose clamp > > and after
> > I tightened the clamp I filled it with one gallon non diluted. I'm > sure
> > there is no harm doing it this way, but I've never heard of > diluting the
> > premix. I guess I need to read the HydroHot Manual. My coach is 15 > > months
> > old and I have not had to add any more boiler fluid, but do have a > > gallon
> > extra if I need it. Did you dilute it with distilled water? > > >
> > R. D. Vanderslice > >
> > 06 Allure 470 - 31294 > > > > > > > >
> > Herb & Melitta Strandberg wrote: > > >
> > I am sorry, but I cannot comment on the leak as my unit has been > > > consuming very little (maybe almost none), but never-the-less I > > > topped off the plastic reservoir when it was hot to the upper hot > > > fill line with about a pint mixed 50-50 with water. I have had the > > > coach three months now. > >
> > My point of this post is to re-enforce the need for BOILER > > > Antifreeze. Fortunately I was able to pick up a gallon when I had > > > my alternator serviced in Littleton CO. They said that not many > > > places seem to carry it. While the bottle says to add it straight, > > > the repair shop AND HydroHot manual says to mix 50-50 with water. > > It is "Camco Boiler -100 degree Antifreeze - Antifreeze for
hydronic
Quote
> heating and cooling systems". > >
> > Since there is apparently not much availability, I would suggest > > > getting a gallon to have on hand -- when you get a chance. > >
> > Herb
> > 2007 Allure # 31466 > >
> > --- In Country-Coach-
Quote
> Owners@yahoogroups. com,
"reeljr65"
Title: Re: Vehicle Systems, Hydro Hot or Aqua
Post by: James Spivey on October 24, 2006, 12:36:19 am
Yahoo Message Number: 26315 (http://groups.yahoo.com/neo/groups/Country-Coach-Owners/conversations/messages/26315)I am saving this e-mail. I drink wine, but Willamette Valley? I can't promise but if I get this done, it could happen. Again thanks! You talk a Merlot or a Cab. And we could close this deal now.
Title: Re: Vehicle Systems, Hydro Hot or Aqua
Post by: Joyce Posik on October 24, 2006, 12:37:21 am
Yahoo Message Number: 26316 (http://groups.yahoo.com/neo/groups/Country-Coach-Owners/conversations/messages/26316)A CC tech told me to check Graingers for antifreeze. It's called "Pipe Saver" in the catalog and seems to meet all the specs of Camco. My very old catalog lists a price of $17.
Jim 06 Intrigue
Title: Re: Vehicle Systems, Hydro Hot or Aqua
Post by: James Spivey on October 24, 2006, 01:16:06 am
Yahoo Message Number: 26321 (http://groups.yahoo.com/neo/groups/Country-Coach-Owners/conversations/messages/26321)Thanks a bunch, that will save some money.
center
From: Country-Coach-Owners@yahoogroups.com [mailto: Country-Coach-Owners@yahoogroups.com ] On Behalf Of Joyce Posik Sent: Monday, October 23, 2006 9:36 PM To: Country-Coach-Owners@yahoogroups.com Subject: [Country-Coach-Owners] Re: Vehicle Systems, Hydro Hot or Aqua
left
Title: Re: Vehicle Systems, Hydro Hot or Aqua
Post by: Countrycoachbrad on October 24, 2006, 11:37:48 am
Yahoo Message Number: 26326 (http://groups.yahoo.com/neo/groups/Country-Coach-Owners/conversations/messages/26326)No Two Buck Chuck!
Quote from: James Spivey
> > I am saving this e-mail. I drink wine, but Willamette Valley? I can't > promise but if I get this done, it could happen. Again thanks! You
talk a
Quote
Merlot or a Cab. And we could close this deal now.
Title: Re: Vehicle Systems, Hydro Hot or Aqua
Post by: Kevin Holmes on October 24, 2006, 12:51:51 pm
Yahoo Message Number: 26329 (http://groups.yahoo.com/neo/groups/Country-Coach-Owners/conversations/messages/26329)I found a Hydro Hot/vehicle systems service bulletin on the web that lists all of their approved antifreezes. I found the Noble Noburst boiler antifreeze for $19.50 per gallon with a google search. I have listed the website for the pdf for the service bulletin.
http://www.alfaleisure.com/downloads/Bulletins/Antifreeze%20for%20Aqua-Hot%20and%20Hydro-Hot.pdf (http://www.alfaleisure.com/downloads/Bulletins/Antifreeze%20for%20Aqua-Hot%20and%20Hydro-Hot.pdf) Kevin
05 Intrigue 11886
--- James Spivey spivey64@...> wrote:
Quote
Thanks a bunch, that will save some money.
_____ > From: Country-Coach-Owners@yahoogroups.com (Country-Coach-Owners@yahoogroups.com) > [mailto:Country-Coach-Owners@yahoogroups.com (Country-Coach-Owners@yahoogroups.com)] On > Behalf Of Joyce Posik
Sent: Monday, October 23, 2006 9:36 PM > To: Country-Coach-Owners@yahoogroups.com (Country-Coach-Owners@yahoogroups.com) > Subject: [Country-Coach-Owners] Re: Vehicle Systems, > Hydro Hot or Aqua
A CC tech told me to check Graingers for antifreeze. It's called "Pipe
Saver" in the catalog and seems to meet all the > specs of Camco. My very old catalog lists a price of $17.
Jim 06 Intrigue
Title: Re: Vehicle Systems, Hydro Hot or Aqua
Post by: Dale And Candace Hollick on October 24, 2006, 01:28:55 pm
Yahoo Message Number: 26332 (http://groups.yahoo.com/neo/groups/Country-Coach-Owners/conversations/messages/26332)Hi All, FYI the boiler coolant is sold by Tru Value in Junction City for $12.99 a gallon. We usually buy two or three when we are there. Hollicks 07 Affinity 6767
Title: Re: Vehicle Systems, Hydro Hot or Aqua
Post by: Kevin Holmes on October 24, 2006, 01:54:34 pm
Yahoo Message Number: 26336 (http://groups.yahoo.com/neo/groups/Country-Coach-Owners/conversations/messages/26336)Dale and Candace,
What brand of boiler coolant do they sell at tru value?
Thanks Kevin
05 Intrigue 11886
--- Dale and Candace Hollick cdhollick@...> wrote:
Quote
Hi All, FYI the boiler coolant is sold by Tru Value > in
Junction City for $12.99 a gallon. We usually buy > two
or three when we are there. Hollicks 07 Affinity > 6767
Title: Re: Vehicle Systems, Hydro Hot or Aqua
Post by: James Spivey on October 24, 2006, 01:56:21 pm
Yahoo Message Number: 26337 (http://groups.yahoo.com/neo/groups/Country-Coach-Owners/conversations/messages/26337)Gee I could fill a swimming pool with 2 buck chuck!! E-mail me your address outside the group, and I will send something you will like.
Title: Re: Vehicle Systems, Hydro Hot or Aqua
Post by: Dale And Candace Hollick on October 24, 2006, 02:24:46 pm
Yahoo Message Number: 26341 (http://groups.yahoo.com/neo/groups/Country-Coach-Owners/conversations/messages/26341)Kevin, it is Camco Boiler/antifreeze-100 degrees. The guy at Tru Value says they buy cases of it as per (for?) CC. I don't really know whether or not he meant they buy it for CC or for CC customers. All I know is that it is the least expensive price I have ever found. Many people go in there and buy it by the case, so sometimes they are out of stock. I wonder if other Tru Value stores would have it as well? Hope that helps, Hollick 07 Affinity #6767
Title: Re: Vehicle Systems, Hydro Hot or Aqua
Post by: Sonny6296@aol Com on October 25, 2006, 12:48:14 am
Yahoo Message Number: 26357 (http://groups.yahoo.com/neo/groups/Country-Coach-Owners/conversations/messages/26357)hi all
it seen every body is having trouble lossing coolent on there hydro hot becouse of the plastic valve and VS knonws its a problem maybe they should have a re call and correct the problem maybe we nee to take this up with CC to do something about it
chuck o4 magna
Title: Re: Vehicle Systems, Hydro Hot or Aqua
Post by: Sue Conant on October 25, 2006, 09:39:30 am
Yahoo Message Number: 26362 (http://groups.yahoo.com/neo/groups/Country-Coach-Owners/conversations/messages/26362)When we had our HH worked on at Vehicle Systems, they said that some type of plastic connector had cracked. It went directly from a hose into the unit itself and was a known weak spot. They replaced it with a brass fitting and said the new units would have the upgraded brass fitting. This was 2 years ago so I wonder if this is the same fitting people are having trouble with now or something different. So far this HH unit has not leaked like the previous one did. We kept loosing antifreeze, but couldn't see where. It took months for us to see an actual drip. The insulation in the unit had finally absorbed as much as it could and started to drip.
On Wed, 25 Oct 2006 00:43:16 EDT, sonny6296@... (sonny6296@...) said:
Quote
hi all
it seen every body is having trouble lossing coolent on there hydro hot > becouse of the plastic valve and VS knonws its a problem maybe they > should have
a re call and correct the problem maybe we nee to take this up with CC to > do
something about it
chuck o4 magna
05, 42' Quad Slide Allure #31254
Title: Re: Vehicle Systems, Hydro Hot or Aqua
Post by: Mikee on October 25, 2006, 09:56:57 am
Yahoo Message Number: 26364 (http://groups.yahoo.com/neo/groups/Country-Coach-Owners/conversations/messages/26364)If your unit is losing fluid, meaning you have to add fluid, it is leaking. These are "closed" systems, thus if you need to add fluid it went somewhere. The leaks are usually small and hard to find, but be assured it is leaking if it is using fluid.. As this post indicates, it soaked insulation until it finally dripped, fortunately it did not do any damage. If your unit is using fluid, it might be worth the time to find the leak in case it is leaking where it can cause damage.
Mikee
When we had our HH worked on at Vehicle Systems, they said that some type of plastic connector had cracked. It went directly from a hose into the unit itself and was a known weak spot. They replaced it with a brass fitting and said the new units would have the upgraded brass fitting. This was 2 years ago so I wonder if this is the same fitting people are having trouble with now or something different. So far this HH unit has not leaked like the previous one did. We kept loosing antifreeze, but couldn't see where. It took months for us to see an actual drip. The insulation in the unit had finally absorbed as much as it could and started to drip.