We own a 2015 Rockwood Fifth Wheel 8285 IKWS. I'm interested in switching my Coleman Mach Thermostat for an up to date digital model that will run the A/C and Furnace more accurately. Has anyone made this change over and if so what type of thermostat did you use and how complicated was the job? I'm sure the slide thermostat that we have is not very accurate and it doesn't help that there is a heat vent almost right below it. Any info would be appreciated. Thanks.
You can replace it pretty easily. There are good YouTube videos out there if you do a search. I replaced mine with a Coleman digital that is a wire for wire exchange. Works great and much easier to control both a.c. and heat.
Got mine at Amazon. Model 8330-3362. But just about any stat will work if you wire it properly.
I replaced the Coleman Mach in my Mini-Lite with a Honeywell RTH111. There's also a programmable version (RTH221?). The don't support two speed AC fan, but if you install a single pole single throw switch, you can make it switchable. Or just pick one of the speeds (I can't tell much difference between them anyway.) See attached pics.
#1: Installed
#2: SPST switch installed. This needs to be an "ON-ON" type. Note 3 openings and "Gas/Electric" switch opening on right
#3: 3 openings cut into one opening to make room for SPST switch. I also had to open it up into the Gas/Electric switch opening
#4: Shows how it goes back together.
PDF: Shows the old wiring and the new wiring.
Note #1: Instead of installing the small SPST switch in the T-stat, you could install a standard RV type rocker switch (JR Products #12625) in the wall next to the T-stat. I may yet do this after I get some experience with it.
NOTE #2: There's also a digital version of the Coleman Mach, but it's a bit pricey and isn't programmable, but would probably be a more straight-forward replacement. See here: http://www.amazon.com/Comfort-Colema.../dp/B00B1SAL54
The RTH111 was about $20 and a couple bucks for the SPST switch at Radio Shack. The digital version's about $5 more.
I replaced mine with the Coleman version because it was easier although it was a more expensive unit. I have used the Honeywell and other brands before on two other RVs and it works as well. But it is extra work to attach the switch for the hi-lo fan. It depends on time or money. Either way it is one of the first upgrades I did.
__________________
2015 Rockwood 8329SS TT
2004 Chevy 2500HD D/A 4X4 CC SB
Andersen Weight Distribution hitch
I take it that this unit is not programmable? I really like the idea of the heat already being on when we get up. Thanks you all for your info and your time. Cheers!
Here is another reason to get rid of any analog thermostat- welded relays. The analog allows for quick on/off motions that will weld the points of the relay and cause the a/c to run all the time. I had this happen and Coleman paid for the repair. I figured out what the cause was and replaced the thermostat with a digital one. The digital has a built in delay that prevents the relay points from being damaged due to the power spikes delivered by rapid on/off cycling of the switch. Money well spent for something that should have been standard equipment in the first place.
I take it that this unit is not programmable? I really like the idea of the heat already being on when we get up. Thanks you all for your info and your time. Cheers!
Did it a couple of weeks ago on my rockwood 8282. The Coleman Mach digital was an easy switch out. Colored wires are the same. Replaced the bottom one with one like the top but has heat also. Don't have picture right now. @ $62 at my dealer Bayou Outdoors Supercenter. Bossier City.
Thanks for everyone's input. I bought a Honeywell programmable thermostat today for $30.00 CDN and had it installed in about 30 min. Everything worked as it should. Now things will run smoother and I can program it so it will be nice and warm when we get up on the chilly mornings that are coming. Sure appreciate everyone's help, cheers!
Linear Mode
