Hi! I recently bought an 85 Toyota Dolphin. For the most part it's in good condition and I had a mechanic check it before I bought it (from out of town) but now there are suddenly a couple problems: 1) The dashboard lights and tail lights suddenly stopped working. 2) There's a rattling noise underneath that seems to be coming from somewhere near the Rt rear tire well.
I tried a couple of mechanics but they want to charge me $150 just to LOOK at it (since it's an RV).
Does anyone know any decent mechanics in LA that will work on RVs? Also, since I'm new to having an RV in the LA area, any other secrets/tips/tricks?? I've already been towed once (it's being dismissed but I'm realizing there is a real prejudice against RVs!). Thanks!!!!
Sorry JoJo, I am in the Orange County area, I use Bret Lauterbach, Southcoast RV Repair, don't know if he has Toyota chassis experience. Try googling mobile RV repair in your area.
Just realized there were several responses! (Sorry...I'm new to this forum) I live in Hollywood. Going to check the fuses today and cross my fingers. If someone wouldn't mind recommending a mechanic with Toyota experience, that'd be sweet! Y'all are awesome for contributing here!! LA peeps--What short trips do you like to take (for 2-3 days)? THANKS!!
Sounds like the electrical and rattling problem could be diagnosed and fixed by a good mobile RV repair guy with Toyota experience. With that old of a rig you need to DIY or find repair guys and shops that will work on housebox and chassis issues competently.
Los Angeles is HUGE! Where are YOU located? I use several experts - scattered far & wide, depending on the problem. For Ford Engine & chassis issues I will travel to Long Beach For body damage repairs Garden Grove Welding & towing concerns Santa Clarita Alignment & steering Sun Valley or Van Nuys Wheels & tires Sun Valley or Van Nuys Motorhome "house & appliance" issues Burbank or Chino For first hand factory advice: Armstrong, British Columbia Canada.
27 years of RVing has taught me well: Ya Gotta Go Where The "TRUSTED SPECIALISTS" Are Located!
My primary mechanic is Performance Auto, corner of Arrow Hwy & Fairplex in La Verne CA. My secondary, who works on more motorhomes, is corner of E stree and 3rd in La Verne.
MOTHER SHIP Winnebago View 24H (2007 Dodge Sprinter 3500 Chassis, 2008 Body)3.0 L M-B Diesel V6 bought used with 24K miles. Toad: ROCKY the Flying Squirrel.
Did you check the fuses? Maybe the light problem is just a fuse. If you can't, maybe a friend/relative can crawl under the RV and look f or something loose.
When it's cool, have them grab and shake the exhaust system. Then look for something broken, a shock absorber, etc..
Maybe you can find the problem, then get an estimate for the repair.