Forum Discussion

beetlebug's avatar
beetlebug
Explorer
Aug 23, 2013

Mystery Switch

I know this may seem like a simple question, but I am totally stumped. We recently upgraded from a 5th wheel to a 50amp motorhome. We bought the motorhome from an individual. Unfortunately, the gentlemen has cancer as was not able to do a total walk through with us. As you walk into the coach, you will find the entry switch panel (battery indicator, ceiling lightning, compartment lights, step, battery connect and porch light. Right below it is a switch that lights up when you turn it on. Looking through all the manuals, I can not find it. Any ideas what this switch if for? I don't want to keep bothering the former owner. He was quite sad to have to give up the RV life.

Second question. We plugged in the coach to home power. Yesterday, while running the generator, we checked out the TV. Today while plugged into home power we could not get TV to come on. Any suggestions?

A sure appreciate your help and patience as we begin this part of our RV adventure.
Class A
  • Mike_M2's avatar
    Mike_M2
    Explorer
    Aug 23, 2013
    Umm, the question has already been answered by someone with the exact same MH...
  • don_b1's avatar
    don_b1
    Explorer
    Aug 23, 2013
    just thought of another possibility with your TV issue. Make sure you did not press your battery disconnect switch. It is located in the same location as your inverter switch.
  • donhoward49's avatar
    donhoward49
    Explorer
    Aug 23, 2013
    The switch.. Could be for Cargo bays?? I have one that lights all the basement storage. A picture of the switch would be nice.
    Your electric.. Did you say that you were plugged in, and ran the generator?? Please, not at the same time..As previously stated the key "ON" will shut off the TV.
    good luck, keep the questions coming.
  • Wrong_Lane's avatar
    Wrong_Lane
    Explorer
    Aug 23, 2013
    Might be an entry step light. Look under the door area with the door open.

    Might be for a service light in the engine compartment.

    Might be for night lights along the floor, like airplane aisle lights.

    This is part of the fun of buying a used MH. When you do find out what the switch controls it will be of those rare "AHH -- why didn't I think of that sooner" moments.

    When you do find out be sure to post the answer.

    Good luck with your new rig!!

    PS

    Guess I was typing at the same time as don-b, who owns the same rig. Anyhow I am sure there will be lots of other learning curve experiances for you - Safe travels
  • don_b1's avatar
    don_b1
    Explorer
    Aug 23, 2013
    Congratulations on your purchase. Your mystery switch operates your inverter. Concerning your TV I can suggest possibly you have ignition key in on position. If your electronic equipment, cd player,etc, is not working there is a GFC circuit breaker in passenger side front bin that needs resetting. Good luck.
  • Executive45's avatar
    Executive45
    Explorer III
    Aug 23, 2013
    My guess is it is the salesman's switch. Flip it and see if your interior lights, the tvs and other things don't work. Then flip it again and see if they come on. They were put in coaches so the salesman didn't have to use the disconnect switch when showing coaches. IMHO, a waste of money....Dennis
  • beetlebug's avatar
    beetlebug
    Explorer
    Aug 23, 2013
    Thank you! It is a 2003 Dolphin. Electric water heater switch is in the bathroom area.
  • 96Bounder30E's avatar
    96Bounder30E
    Explorer II
    Aug 23, 2013
    If you post the year, make and model of the new motorhome.... There might be someone here that has the same one as you that could give you the correct answer...... Otherwise you will getting nothing more than guesses......

    Now..For my guess......It's the electric water heater switch....

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