Newbie , '89 Dodge Xplorer, no manual, help!

There is a EXPLORER MANUAL on the internet. I put in DODGE EXPLORER MANUAL and it came up. You can then copy it.

Heapie

First, test your battery to make sure it has a full charge and can hold it. When you plug into shore power, does the battery charge?

Then, check to see if you have lights when not plugged into shore power. If so, then it could be your converter is shot.

If you don't have power to lights when not plugged into shore power, then you might have a shut off switch (usually located near the house battery).

When you're plugged into shore power, are your outlets live? If so, then there's probably a cutoff switch. If not, then you might need a new charger/converter - especially if the battery won't charge when plugged into shore power.

I think the battery in the Xplorer is mounted in the floor under the entry step. There should be a big cable going from there to the 12 volt distribution box under the closet. You should see if you're getting 12 volts at the distribution panel. It's easily checked with a VOM.

I don't think the Xplorer has a 12 volt house disconnect switch

karl

On some of the other Xplorer van campers, the 12 volt converter is mounted in the rear compartment on the drivers side. Some are also mounted under the bed next to that rear compartment. The converter is plugged into a 120 volt power outlet flush mounted nearby. When plugged into shore power, that converter box will be humming. If not, probably the first place to check is the AC breaker panel located in the cabinet directly above the closet. Might be a good idea to first check to see if you're getting any power to any of the 120 volt outlets. If I remember correctly, there is only one 120 volt circuit with the first outlet in the string being GFI protected.

karl

Thank you all! I located the home battery and fuse box ( this model the battery is under the passenger seat, fuse box is under the AC near back ). I had two bad fuses, now fixed. I have lights, refrigerator and flush power. All good things! Still trying to understand converter or inverter? I've been told I may have one or the other, but they do the same thing?
Now I need to tackle the propane system, water system and clean out. I am checking manual link now. This forum is a gem!

The converter is a standard item in an RV. It is often part of the battery charger. It CONVERTS 120v AC power into 12v DC power. This means when you are plugged into shore power (AC), your 12v systems (lights, fridge, etc.), will run from the shore power rather than from the battery.

The inverter is an optional device. It INVERTS 12v DC power into 120v AC power. This allows the 120v systems in your RV (outlets, air conditioner, etc.) to operate when not connected directly to shore power (AC).

You will have a converter/charger. Some RVs may have an inverter IN addition to the converter. That's a good way to remember what you have - the INverter will be IN addition to the CONverter.

Very helpful, bless you! I'm already enjoying my new MH. I'm sleeping in it rather then in my house! So cozy. Can't wait for first big trip planned in June.

I have an 89 Xplorer also. Post a picture please. :)

Here is mine.

Posting here and wondering if any 89 Dodge Xplorer owners have replaced the RV roof vent lid and have a link to the model number. I Want to replace with a flatter vent as it is currently tight pulling into garage. It fits but makes my future Mrs. goreds2 nervous.