@@AZExpert I'm not sure if you will receive my earlier message as there are so many for you to read. Wow! Therefore, when I stumbled upon replying to you directly, I thought I would take a chance that you will indeed see & perhaps read my message. I have a 2002 Beaver Patriot which I purchased in 2012. She was garage kept and looked as if she just came off the showroom floor. With only 59,000 miles, she really does look like a classic & I agree is the " Best RV ever made." However, after 10 years of inexperienced technicians, she has rendered herself as a very expensive privacy fence. I would like to revive this classic antique as she is still in very good condition. I know what you said, there are no classic RVs but if there was one, it would have to be the Beaver. So, I was hoping you would be so kind as to refer me to a knowledgeable & reputable technician, if you know of one, in my area of central Fl. While I am no RV technician myself, it is my belief that the last tech I took her to, to replace the batteries, did so but hooked them up backwards, according to the diagram in the Beaver Packet. The frig went out, the large slide motor went out, the inverter is out & now she will not start. I'm afraid to just take her anywhere as I fear I will just end up with more of the same. During an emergency stop at Camping World in Ocala, a hydraulic hose was replaced for one of the sliders. When I went to pick up the RV from them, they had neglected to put all the pieces back together again. Prior to that, also in Ocala, where the tech said he had worked for Monaco Beaver, somehow managed to render the surround sound system useless. This is where I had the TV's upgraded to flat screens & put in a dish or King dome for dish network. Which has never worked properly from day one. I don't know if this is the experience most RV er's receive, but I simply can't afford this kind of nonsense anymore. Is it really so hard to find good help these days? My Beaver's floor plan is just like your Beaver Thunder with all the same fixtures with the exception of the bathroom faucets. Also the fabric is slightly different on the walls & chairs. When I saw this RV, I simply fell in love. Compared to the $300,000 & up RV's of 10 years ago, this was a no brainer. However, it has been sitting in my back yard for over 5 years now. 2 years even before the pandemic hit. After sitting so long, I'm not sure she is worth sinking a bunch of money into. Cosmetically, she is still in very good condition. Mechanically though, is so uncertain. I would highly appreciate your professional opinion on the matter if would please. She has a 400 Cummins Diesel & nearly a full tank of fuel. I know I'm looking at roughly $5000.00 on tires, $2000.00 for an inverter, $1500.00 for the slider motor + labor. About $3000-4000 for batteries & solar panels as I want to upgrade her for off grid. I would like for the King Dome & surround sound to work but not necessary. I watch Roku most of the time anyway. But what about this motor? Are the seals all dried up? Will it need to be completely overhauled. Will the fuel need to be drained? So many questions regarding this engine not to mention the transmission & how much it should all cost. But with so many bad experiences in the past, I know not who I can trust & who is knowledgeable & whom is reputable. Please, if you know of anyone you would trust in my area, please, please, please let me know. By the way, I also had to replace the skylight above the shower stall. But get this, the wood was damaged & the mobile repair tech took out the damaged wood, but never came back to replace it. Just took the money & ran. Does this kind of stuff happen everywhere? Or just here in Fl. Thank you for any help you can render in this matter & thank you for taking the time to read this. I know how knowledgeable you are & I would trust you explicitly with my RV. Only problem is, it would cost more money than I have to tow my Beaver Patriot all the way to your shop in Arizona. Thank you for sharing your ideas & videos on RUclips & for making them informative & fun to watch. Sincerely, Kelly Frey
@@kellyfrey994 That's a lot of information. I can't say how the seals in the engine have held up or the interior surfaces from Florida's humidity. I would probably dump the oil and replace with new, same with the fuel and start it up and see how it does before I put any money into the rest.
I don't know if you understand how useful and helpful these upgrade vids really are. Your explanation of how you decide to do what you end up doing really walks through your thought process and lets us see what makes the most sense, either for you or our own project. I also now know what to do if my Newmar switches break or stop working. I honestly would not have thought about the magnet switches, but they are a great idea!! Thanks yet again for another fantastically useful vid, James!!
I'm midway through a roof replacement on my RV and I watch these at night! You've inspired many to take on RV projects and your videos have helped immensely!
As an alarm guy, I like your thinking, you can always get switches that have a much wider gap, thereby you have more play in what you’re trying to open and close as a switch. Like sliced bread, such a nice convenience
James - really like your videos. Here’s why the amperage you calculated was high. At 6:26, you show the LED light spec. label. The wattage shown is 9.6 W/m (meter). Under quantity it says the light is 0.3 m (long). If you multiply the two together you get the wattage for that light and can find the correct current draw. Hope that helps.
LED Strip Hack - install a strip of Aluminum HVAC tape to where you want to place your LED strip.... aluminum tape adheres better to textured surfaces and when adhering the double side tape on LED strip.... I have found sticks incredibly well to the aluminum tape. No guarantee, but I've ran hundreds of LED strip with the aluminum tape hack, and its still holding up great years later! Love your vids.... and keep them coming!
Your coach hits the sweet spot between affordability for the average earners, the most power to weight ratio, and full fiberglass moulded roof, semi monocoque welded frame, air suspension, quality cabinets and finishes, and no Def. Perfect.
Very interesting to watch what you do. I have an old 2003 pace arrow I've been working on you have given me good ideas. I live in AZ not far from shop maybe 8 miles. You're a fantastic technician
Sir you are an RV genius.. I appreciate the thought that goes into every mod , and repair explained in a way us animals can understand😂 . I Enjoy the library of knowledge on your channel. But most importantly the thought process.
This style DIY video really helps out, grateful you also showed the wiring and connection process because I’m still a beginner. Please more videos like these if you can
As always, another great informative video. Great use of that dead space where you installed the bug magnet and rv park neighbor annoying device (the soundbar).
Hi James, I really appreciated this video and the thorough explanations of what you wanted to accomplish and how you wanted to do it!!! The nerdy joy you had/have regarding to the period correct Beaver switch reminded myself of me. I was kinda glad you didn't sweat the fact that the light was a bit crooked. This will be helpful for me going forward as I probably would have nerded out about that. Hey, and also please keep us updated on the Mango. Because of your original video I have become a distributor. Take care!!!
I did a total rebuild of a 1967 silver streak travel trailer and put LED lights that in all of the cabinets and closets that come on when opened. Its great. good job.
My storage compartments have motion and love them. As soon as the door opens the lights turn on and i like that the lights don't stay on all the time if i leave the doors left open.
You know we have to give you some crap about mounting the light crooked James! Great job, and keep up the good work on modifications to make the worlds best RV just a little bit better! 🤠👍
My OCD went off the charts when you mounted the first light not parallel with the frame of the door. 😶 Another great video with fantastic ideas for upgraded lighting!
Found the link. I plan to do the same upgrade to our 2011 Winnebago Journey. I’ve watched several of your other videos about the Winnebago roofs. All great videos. Thanks for your videos. Keep it up.
Nice Job James!! While you were showing the plunger switches I was saying No, no, no..... then you brought out the magnetic reed switches. 👍 Wago connectors are NOT the way to go in any case. IMO they bad connections waiting to fail and are only good for service calls. Butt connectors with dielectric grease work best and in wet environments the adhesive lined shrink-wrap connectors work better. Anywhere you need to have have a pigtail, bullet connectors work the best or for waterproof connections Deutsch connectors can't be beat, albeit more $$ and time to make up. I also liked that you went with a more yellow light. It's easier on the eye and when illuminating things shows colors correctly. The reed switches duty cycles are higher and if you need to control a larger load, a relay can be controlled by the reed switch. Awesome job! Nice upgrade to your Beaver. 👍👍👍
I used cheap LED strip lights when I did this to our trailer a few years ago. Ran 3 strips across the bay, tons of light. I put in a manual switch, but I really like this magnet switch idea more. I'll change that over soon as the RV comes out of winter storage!
Keep in mind too that unless that light is internally regulated which I doubt it is it's going to draw a lot more current as the voltage goes up. 300 milliamps at 12 volts could easily be double that at 13.6 volts.
Definitely like the lighting upgrade . My 1999 Gulf Stream has pin switches with old 1157 light bulbs so I may have to use your system for basement lights 👍
I am loving your videos. Just bought a beautiful 92 Gorgie Boy cruise air III that was stored all its life. My first rv, and I am learning a bunch from you and some others on Utube College. Lol Will be upgrading my storage compartments, same as you. Thank you 😊
Very enlightened solution! I am happy with my Tiffin Allegro Bus set-up that features a switch marked 'cargo lights' on the entry door multi-plex panel, motion activated lights in each bay that are LED and that each light pod has it's own integrated switch that can be placed into the auto-on (motion sensor), off, and steady on positon.
James, my wife and I have been watching your videos for a couple years now. Really enjoy the education. This one was no different, think I might upgrade my Dolphin. Keep up the good work.
That is a nice Beaver. Those lights being anemic is right, especially on the nicest RV ever made. Really like this video James. Your plan and execution was fantastic. It's the best, I love it! Great tips. That was fun right? Well done, dang, that looks good! Happy trails!
Those first switches closed(turned on) when they came together, which would turn off when you open the door and on when you close the door. Or did they also have the comm, N.C., N.O., like the ones you ultimately got. I like this idea, definitely going on my project list for our 2003 Newmar Dutch Star DP. I'm probably going to go with the glue on strip lights because their easier to get(your link said unavailable) and cheaper. I bought a bag of 50 clips that use one screw and hold the strips up if the glue let's go. Super cool. Thanks James.
I've been trying so hard to get the drive to install basement lighting in my 2000 cc Allure still working the fire restoration thing even though min at 68 its a drag ...love your channel and content...
You could use the existing 2 holes from the 4 holes of the old light that way you wouldn't have to drill new holes, and for easy maintenance when changing the lights in the future always use the spade connectors for easy disconnect,just saying don't get me wrong,I appreciate all your videos you share here.
Hi James, I just received my LED strips and mag switches today! Going to light the area in my RV’s pullout drawer area so I can ditch the flashlight when checking my fresh water tank level. I even ordered extra for my kitchen under cabinet lighting. Thanks for the detailed video.
OMG .... James James James, the "world's best RV ever made" just keeps gettin' sweeter! Sheesh, did that ever make for an epic upgrade! I mean, the difference in light is remarkable! Plus, the way you found those exact magnetic reed switches was keen too, man! They really worked a treat, didn't they. Plus, your rationale for why you chose the setup you chose ... top notch! Kudos, I was waitin' for the video on how you'd approach this upgrade and you certainly delivered! Sorry to gush, but this was a brilliant upgrade, indeed! Love it!
You do a great job explaining everything! Ordered supplies needed for our 2004 Beaver Monterey. I think this would be a good upgrade for the interior lighting as well. Appreciate the videos from one RUclipsr to another I know the time involved.
Great idea. I’m looking to do something similar in my 16’ Thor Challenger 37LX. My lights are each separate turn on, but, I’ll come up with something. Also, you could have put your switches at the hinge assemblies. They would definitely be out of the way. Keep the vids coming.
I have a Wonderlodge WB and I have similar bay doors. BlueBird used mercury tilt switches mounted to the bay door arms. Just another way to skin the cat.
I did think about a tilt switch, mercury switches are expensive, toxic, and of course more difficult to install as they need to be on the door or the arm
Well, to be fair, there wasn’t any real good LED lighting back in 01. At the very least you could just change those out to the LED housing and install a plunger switch so it turns on when you open the door. My MH didn’t even have any lights. So I installed the LED housings, but I still have to turn them on like an animal! LOL But I like the LED strip you found. Not to mention with the relay. Now you are adding another lid to the circuit and your back to being close to the incandescent bulb load.
Thanks for this video… we have a Discovery and I’ve been looking a doing this same thing… I’ve already used the same mag switches to light up interior cabinets, used a 9v battery for power so I didn’t need to run wiring…
Nice video and upgrade. My 2001 Marquis has the same crappie lights. I guess I will add that to the to do list. First I have to replace my passenger side mirror that was knocked off by a dump truck the other day on I-10 in Palm Desert. Luckily the driver was being pulled over by highway patrol for an uncovered load when he swerved into my lane and I had the perfect witness.
Great video as always sir! Word of your good work and solid advice is spreading; I really expect to see your sub numbers climb and climb! To-the-point videos, great humor, and most importantly a positive attitude! Because after all, the RV life is all about embracing challenge after challenge, and you make it look "easy...too easy!"
Great idea, thanks for the links to the lights and switches. It’s on my list of to dos. Glad you switched the ground, just a safer way to do it. FYI the blueish lights are cheaper led chips, good quality lights are white. Thanks for sharing, and your coach looks awesome with the upgrade
Perfect. I like it. I was going to update my 2001 Travel Supreme basement lights as well. Quite a few things need to be updated on my 2001 and that's one of them. Now I don't have to figure it out since you did. Awesome!!!
Tip: If the placement of the magnet is far enough away that the switch doesn't work reliably, get some neodymium magnets at the hardware store. They are much stronger than normal magnets.
Nice work... now I want to mine. I do have a switch at the door step for all compartment lights which is OK... but I would like to have door switches for the same reasons you listed.
Love the video I had used the type of reed switch years ago when I did alarm systems. My 2010 Tiffin Allegro bus 43QGP has the same kind of old light and bulb as yours did at first. So changing will be easy just the reed switch pair ( reed switch with magnet ) it should go together about the same. Thanks so much for sharing I will be doing my very soon thank you ! ! ! !
Great addition to your Beaver. Our coach doesn't have any basement lights, so would have to wire the whole thing. I could live with on/off switches, but the wiring would be a lot of work. Going to have to do some pondering.
Hi James🙋♀️🇨🇦😍❤️‼️Wow! 58k subs😍‼️ to think I was a sub before you hit 1k🏆👍🏼hubby and me still luv the "riding the dog" your daughter made, so glad you keep that, its your trademark❤️
Hi James, what an awesome video. Very helpful. I too have the cheap lights in my ‘07 Navigator and will have to change them out. I had to laugh 🤣….we have such first world problems….I mean, the pain and agony of having to physically turn on a switch on our 1/2 million dollar coaches….where’s the humanity?! When you look at your 2001 coach, you’d never know it is 22 years old…..beautiful and amazing quality! Thanks and take care!
Thanks for sharing James - we replaced our bathroom faucet with the same one you used - the Trust mi brand. We love the faucet and are considering the same brand for a shower head replacement. We have a similar SMC made coach- a 96 Sahara 3530. Not as fancy as yours but lots of similarities- including the poor basement lighting. Pretty sure these lamps are on the horizon for our coach too, among the many things on the to-do list. The lights you installed in the basement look awesome- great work.
"Like an animal, I have to reach down underneath to turn it on" 🤣 Such great videos!
Thanks for watching!
Perhaps peasant would have been a better analogy? Such a uniquely hysterical comment! 😂
I don't know if this has ever happened to you but I've gone back in the bay days later only to find out I left the light on. Duh
@@AZExpert I'm not sure if you will receive my earlier message as there are so many for you to read. Wow! Therefore, when I stumbled upon replying to you directly, I thought I would take a chance that you will indeed see & perhaps read my message.
I have a 2002 Beaver Patriot which I purchased in 2012. She was garage kept and looked as if she just came off the showroom floor. With only 59,000 miles, she really does look like a classic & I agree is the " Best RV ever made."
However, after 10 years of inexperienced technicians, she has rendered herself as a very expensive privacy fence. I would like to revive this classic antique as she is still in very good condition. I know what you said, there are no classic RVs but if there was one, it would have to be the Beaver. So, I was hoping you would be so kind as to refer me to a knowledgeable & reputable technician, if you know of one, in my area of central Fl. While I am no RV technician myself, it is my belief that the last tech I took her to, to replace the batteries, did so but hooked them up backwards, according to the diagram in the Beaver Packet. The frig went out, the large slide motor went out, the inverter is out & now she will not start. I'm afraid to just take her anywhere as I fear I will just end up with more of the same. During an emergency stop at Camping World in Ocala, a hydraulic hose was replaced for one of the sliders. When I went to pick up the RV from them, they had neglected to put all the pieces back together again. Prior to that, also in Ocala, where the tech said he had worked for Monaco Beaver, somehow managed to render the surround sound system useless. This is where I had the TV's upgraded to flat screens & put in a dish or King dome for dish network. Which has never worked properly from day one. I don't know if this is the experience most RV er's receive, but I simply can't afford this kind of nonsense anymore. Is it really so hard to find good help these days?
My Beaver's floor plan is just like your Beaver Thunder with all the same fixtures with the exception of the bathroom faucets. Also the fabric is slightly different on the walls & chairs. When I saw this RV, I simply fell in love. Compared to the $300,000 & up RV's of 10 years ago, this was a no brainer. However, it has been sitting in my back yard for over 5 years now. 2 years even before the pandemic hit. After sitting so long, I'm not sure she is worth sinking a bunch of money into. Cosmetically, she is still in very good condition. Mechanically though, is so uncertain. I would highly appreciate your professional opinion on the matter if would please. She has a 400 Cummins Diesel & nearly a full tank of fuel. I know I'm looking at roughly $5000.00 on tires, $2000.00 for an inverter, $1500.00 for the slider motor + labor. About $3000-4000 for batteries & solar panels as I want to upgrade her for off grid. I would like for the King Dome & surround sound to work but not necessary. I watch Roku most of the time anyway. But what about this motor? Are the seals all dried up? Will it need to be completely overhauled. Will the fuel need to be drained? So many questions regarding this engine not to mention the transmission & how much it should all cost. But with so many bad experiences in the past, I know not who I can trust & who is knowledgeable & whom is reputable. Please, if you know of anyone you would trust in my area, please, please, please let me know. By the way, I also had to replace the skylight above the shower stall. But get this, the wood was damaged & the mobile repair tech took out the damaged wood, but never came back to replace it. Just took the money & ran. Does this kind of stuff happen everywhere? Or just here in Fl.
Thank you for any help you can render in this matter & thank you for taking the time to read this. I know how knowledgeable you are & I would trust you explicitly with my RV. Only problem is, it would cost more money than I have to tow my Beaver Patriot all the way to your shop in Arizona. Thank you for sharing your ideas & videos on RUclips & for making them informative & fun to watch.
Sincerely,
Kelly Frey
@@kellyfrey994 That's a lot of information. I can't say how the seals in the engine have held up or the interior surfaces from Florida's humidity. I would probably dump the oil and replace with new, same with the fuel and start it up and see how it does before I put any money into the rest.
I don't know if you understand how useful and helpful these upgrade vids really are. Your explanation of how you decide to do what you end up doing really walks through your thought process and lets us see what makes the most sense, either for you or our own project. I also now know what to do if my Newmar switches break or stop working. I honestly would not have thought about the magnet switches, but they are a great idea!! Thanks yet again for another fantastically useful vid, James!!
I'm midway through a roof replacement on my RV and I watch these at night! You've inspired many to take on RV projects and your videos have helped immensely!
As an alarm guy, I like your thinking, you can always get switches that have a much wider gap, thereby you have more play in what you’re trying to open and close as a switch.
Like sliced bread, such a nice convenience
Wow! Those magnetic switches are much better than the mechanical. You're not the "expert" James, you're the Genius. 👍🏻
James - really like your videos. Here’s why the amperage you calculated was high. At 6:26, you show the LED light spec. label. The wattage shown is 9.6 W/m (meter). Under quantity it says the light is 0.3 m (long). If you multiply the two together you get the wattage for that light and can find the correct current draw. Hope that helps.
I am also still in love with your rig. Ever since that first video when you found it. I enjoy watching you pimp it out
LED Strip Hack - install a strip of Aluminum HVAC tape to where you want to place your LED strip.... aluminum tape adheres better to textured surfaces and when adhering the double side tape on LED strip.... I have found sticks incredibly well to the aluminum tape.
No guarantee, but I've ran hundreds of LED strip with the aluminum tape hack, and its still holding up great years later!
Love your vids.... and keep them coming!
Very well thought out and installed. Great light for your basement compartments.
Your coach hits the sweet spot between affordability for the average earners, the most power to weight ratio, and full fiberglass moulded roof, semi monocoque welded frame, air suspension, quality cabinets and finishes, and no Def. Perfect.
Sweet addition to the perfect motorhome! You are like a kid in a toy store. Love the passion you have!
Nice setup, even a Beaver switch for the TV light. Hope you have a great New Year.
You’re as bad of an RV geek as I am! I’d be pretty stoked about the light switch plate as well!
I need to this to my 2002 Marquis. You make me feel like I own the best motorhome out there. The more I have it the more I think you are right.
Very interesting to watch what you do. I have an old 2003 pace arrow I've been working on you have given me good ideas. I live in AZ not far from shop maybe 8 miles. You're a fantastic technician
Thank you!
Definitely the best coach ever made!
Wow, thanks!
Sir you are an RV genius.. I appreciate the thought that goes into every mod , and repair explained in a way us animals can understand😂 . I Enjoy the library of knowledge on your channel. But most importantly the thought process.
Thanks, I love this idea, your simple approach, and I love how much you love your RV.
I love that you’re making this video! Thank you!
You’re so excited after it’s all done. Loved it.
This style DIY video really helps out, grateful you also showed the wiring and connection process because I’m still a beginner. Please more videos like these if you can
Very clean install. Looking forward to more Beaver vids this year!
As always, another great informative video. Great use of that dead space where you installed the bug magnet and rv park neighbor annoying device (the soundbar).
Hi James, I really appreciated this video and the thorough explanations of what you wanted to accomplish and how you wanted to do it!!! The nerdy joy you had/have regarding to the period correct Beaver switch reminded myself of me. I was kinda glad you didn't sweat the fact that the light was a bit crooked. This will be helpful for me going forward as I probably would have nerded out about that. Hey, and also please keep us updated on the Mango. Because of your original video I have become a distributor. Take care!!!
Hello but where are. The lights
I did a total rebuild of a 1967 silver streak travel trailer and put LED lights that in all of the cabinets and closets that come on when opened. Its great. good job.
Boy!!!....you sure put a lot of effort into making your videos. I have a 2003 Bounder and I will change those lights. Great job.
Thanks 👍
My storage compartments have motion and love them. As soon as the door opens the lights turn on and i like that the lights don't stay on all the time if i leave the doors left open.
Thanks James. Always enjoy your videos. And I’ve notice something that you do that no one else does. Your always smiling. 😊.
Absolutely, WELL DONE! I've saved this as I want them, too, in my RV basement bays! ☺
Another great ideal... I have to get down on my knees to turn mine on
Now look at you. Getting all fancy and stuff. Great explanation of the job.
You know we have to give you some crap about mounting the light crooked James! Great job, and keep up the good work on modifications to make the worlds best RV just a little bit better! 🤠👍
Great job !!! You are making the Beaver the best Motorhome ever !!
You are my type of guy! This video is awesome! I was literally just looking for a way to relight the basement on our 2003 Rexhall! Love the video
My OCD went off the charts when you mounted the first light not parallel with the frame of the door. 😶 Another great video with fantastic ideas for upgraded lighting!
it's not bad, mostly a fisheye lens issue
A very boring subject made entertaining and informative. Great job, James !
What a great, easy to understand, and useful DIY video. Keep 'em coming! Love that you share why you do what you do from an RV repair perspective!
Found the link. I plan to do the same upgrade to our 2011 Winnebago Journey. I’ve watched several of your other videos about the Winnebago roofs. All great videos. Thanks for your videos. Keep it up.
Nice Job James!! While you were showing the plunger switches I was saying No, no, no..... then you brought out the magnetic reed switches. 👍 Wago connectors are NOT the way to go in any case. IMO they bad connections waiting to fail and are only good for service calls. Butt connectors with dielectric grease work best and in wet environments the adhesive lined shrink-wrap connectors work better. Anywhere you need to have have a pigtail, bullet connectors work the best or for waterproof connections Deutsch connectors can't be beat, albeit more $$ and time to make up. I also liked that you went with a more yellow light. It's easier on the eye and when illuminating things shows colors correctly. The reed switches duty cycles are higher and if you need to control a larger load, a relay can be controlled by the reed switch. Awesome job! Nice upgrade to your Beaver. 👍👍👍
I used cheap LED strip lights when I did this to our trailer a few years ago. Ran 3 strips across the bay, tons of light. I put in a manual switch, but I really like this magnet switch idea more. I'll change that over soon as the RV comes out of winter storage!
Keep in mind too that unless that light is internally regulated which I doubt it is it's going to draw a lot more current as the voltage goes up. 300 milliamps at 12 volts could easily be double that at 13.6 volts.
I like the upgrade and I’m going to use this light upgrade on my Georgetown 364ts. Thanks.
Definitely like the lighting upgrade . My 1999 Gulf Stream has pin switches with old 1157 light bulbs so I may have to use your system for basement lights 👍
I am loving your videos. Just bought a beautiful 92 Gorgie Boy cruise air III that was stored all its life. My first rv, and I am learning a bunch from you and some others on Utube College. Lol Will be upgrading my storage compartments, same as you. Thank you 😊
Very enlightened solution! I am happy with my Tiffin Allegro Bus set-up that features a switch marked 'cargo lights' on the entry door multi-plex panel, motion activated lights in each bay that are LED and that each light pod has it's own integrated switch that can be placed into the auto-on (motion sensor), off, and steady on positon.
James, my wife and I have been watching your videos for a couple years now. Really enjoy the education. This one was no different, think I might upgrade my Dolphin. Keep up the good work.
Good upgrade for your perfect coach. Now on to mine.
Another great job and Upgrade James, Nice Job.
Glad to seeing you making time to work on the rv.
Very cool hook up easy and simple!
This is very timely, I've been looking into doing the same on my new to us 5th wheel
That is a nice Beaver. Those lights being anemic is right, especially on the nicest RV ever made. Really like this video James. Your plan and execution was fantastic. It's the best, I love it! Great tips. That was fun right? Well done, dang, that looks good! Happy trails!
Those first switches closed(turned on) when they came together, which would turn off when you open the door and on when you close the door. Or did they also have the comm, N.C., N.O., like the ones you ultimately got. I like this idea, definitely going on my project list for our 2003 Newmar Dutch Star DP. I'm probably going to go with the glue on strip lights because their easier to get(your link said unavailable) and cheaper. I bought a bag of 50 clips that use one screw and hold the strips up if the glue let's go. Super cool. Thanks James.
I've been trying so hard to get the drive to install basement lighting in my 2000 cc Allure still working the fire restoration thing even though min at 68 its a drag ...love your channel and content...
You can do it!
Damn you James! I thought I was done with upgrades lol! Lights and switches ordered lol.
You could use the existing 2 holes from the 4 holes of the old light that way you wouldn't have to drill new holes, and for easy maintenance when changing the lights in the future always use the spade connectors for easy disconnect,just saying don't get me wrong,I appreciate all your videos you share here.
Hi James, I just received my LED strips and mag switches today! Going to light the area in my RV’s pullout drawer area so I can ditch the flashlight when checking my fresh water tank level. I even ordered extra for my kitchen under cabinet lighting. Thanks for the detailed video.
My 2021 Forest River has tiny motion sensing light in each bay. Upgrading to your idea next week. Thanks.
OMG .... James James James, the "world's best RV ever made" just keeps gettin' sweeter! Sheesh, did that ever make for an epic upgrade! I mean, the difference in light is remarkable! Plus, the way you found those exact magnetic reed switches was keen too, man! They really worked a treat, didn't they. Plus, your rationale for why you chose the setup you chose ... top notch! Kudos, I was waitin' for the video on how you'd approach this upgrade and you certainly delivered! Sorry to gush, but this was a brilliant upgrade, indeed! Love it!
Oh, and the Beaver rocker switch, God love Chad! He's a great dude, ain't he!
Bravo James, The magnetic switches are the better choice, well done.
Great job. Now I think that’s just what my 08 Tiffin Phaeton needs now. Hopefully can still get the lights you showed on notes
Great advice. I absolutely hate my lights in basement in my 22 year old class a. Thank You!
That is awesome. Going to do the same for 2000 Country Coach.
You do a great job explaining everything! Ordered supplies needed for our 2004 Beaver Monterey.
I think this would be a good upgrade for the interior lighting as well.
Appreciate the videos from one RUclipsr to another I know the time involved.
Thank you
James
Check out the 12 volt oval pancake LED lights from Dream Lighting. The have on/off switch or auto motion detect mode, they work great.
Great idea. I’m looking to do something similar in my 16’ Thor Challenger 37LX. My lights are each separate turn on, but, I’ll come up with something.
Also, you could have put your switches at the hinge assemblies. They would definitely be out of the way.
Keep the vids coming.
I have a Wonderlodge WB and I have similar bay doors. BlueBird used mercury tilt switches mounted to the bay door arms. Just another way to skin the cat.
I did think about a tilt switch, mercury switches are expensive, toxic, and of course more difficult to install as they need to be on the door or the arm
Very nice! Way better than the mechanical switches.
Well, to be fair, there wasn’t any real good LED lighting back in 01. At the very least you could just change those out to the LED housing and install a plunger switch so it turns on when you open the door. My MH didn’t even have any lights. So I installed the LED housings, but I still have to turn them on like an animal! LOL
But I like the LED strip you found.
Not to mention with the relay. Now you are adding another lid to the circuit and your back to being close to the incandescent bulb load.
Bite size, easy to digest small upgrade. Nice as always.
Great & Easy Upgrade James!
This is an AWESOME Upgrade! Thank you for sharing your ideas. I've ordered the parts for my upgrade from your links. Thanks again. -Todd
Thanks for this video… we have a Discovery and I’ve been looking a doing this same thing… I’ve already used the same mag switches to light up interior cabinets, used a 9v battery for power so I didn’t need to run wiring…
Very nice. I’ll have to update mine soon. You’re motivating me to do some upgrades with my entertainment center. Thanks cheers
Great job with the install, now I'm thinking of doing my 06 Beaver PT. See what you started!
I will definitely be doing this upgrade.
Nice video and upgrade. My 2001 Marquis has the same crappie lights. I guess I will add that to the to do list.
First I have to replace my passenger side mirror that was knocked off by a dump truck the other day on I-10 in Palm Desert. Luckily the driver was being pulled over by highway patrol for an uncovered load when he swerved into my lane and I had the perfect witness.
Great video as always sir! Word of your good work and solid advice is spreading; I really expect to see your sub numbers climb and climb! To-the-point videos, great humor, and most importantly a positive attitude! Because after all, the RV life is all about embracing challenge after challenge, and you make it look "easy...too easy!"
Love it, will be changing mine.
Hot in Arizona.No way.Your kidding me,Right!!!
Thanks for the info for the mag switches.Won’t corrode here in Texas.
Great idea, thanks for the links to the lights and switches.
It’s on my list of to dos.
Glad you switched the ground, just a safer way to do it.
FYI the blueish lights are cheaper led chips, good quality lights are white.
Thanks for sharing, and your coach looks awesome with the upgrade
You really do a nice job and your videos are so helpful. Really Nice 🙂!
Hi James took your advice, went to Cassone to have my slide adjusted in my class 3 motorhome. They did a great job!! thank you.
Perfect. I like it. I was going to update my 2001 Travel Supreme basement lights as well. Quite a few things need to be updated on my 2001 and that's one of them. Now I don't have to figure it out since you did. Awesome!!!
Tip: If the placement of the magnet is far enough away that the switch doesn't work reliably, get some neodymium magnets at the hardware store. They are much stronger than normal magnets.
Awesome video James, it was like watch paint dry getting to the solution. love it. You have made me a believer in beaver coaches.
Nice job James your remotes put some Velcro on them and mount them on the wall or sound bar 😊
Nice work... now I want to mine. I do have a switch at the door step for all compartment lights which is OK... but I would like to have door switches for the same reasons you listed.
great upgrade as usual you did a great job ,the Beaver switch plate was a plus👍
"door switch" from a second generation dodge ram are very good switches
Great upgrade, nice work! "Does Size Matters" just listed their prestine 2005 Patriot Thunder you'll have to check it out.
Nice improvement in lighting, I am not a fan of outside TV. I do not like to listen to a TV at night at the camp ground.
Awesome video just bought a fifth wheel toy hauler and your videos help with the technical parts im not sure of
Love the video I had used the type of reed switch years ago when I did alarm systems. My 2010 Tiffin Allegro bus 43QGP has the same kind of old light and bulb as yours did at first. So changing will be easy just the reed switch pair ( reed switch with magnet ) it should go together about the same. Thanks so much for sharing I will be doing my very soon thank you ! ! ! !
That works.. i went with a limit switch n connected to the hinge mechanism. Out of sight n works every time.
Great addition to your Beaver. Our coach doesn't have any basement lights, so would have to wire the whole thing. I could live with on/off switches, but the wiring would be a lot of work. Going to have to do some pondering.
Need to play some PRIMUS big brown beaver when you present this rig😊
Hi James🙋♀️🇨🇦😍❤️‼️Wow! 58k subs😍‼️ to think I was a sub before you hit 1k🏆👍🏼hubby and me still luv the "riding the dog" your daughter made, so glad you keep that, its your trademark❤️
Hi James, what an awesome video. Very helpful. I too have the cheap lights in my ‘07 Navigator and will have to change them out. I had to laugh 🤣….we have such first world problems….I mean, the pain and agony of having to physically turn on a switch on our 1/2 million dollar coaches….where’s the humanity?! When you look at your 2001 coach, you’d never know it is 22 years old…..beautiful and amazing quality! Thanks and take care!
Great upgrade. Thanks for making a video. I will be doing mine now. Thanks for spending my money😂
Thanks for sharing James - we replaced our bathroom faucet with the same one you used - the Trust mi brand. We love the faucet and are considering the same brand for a shower head replacement. We have a similar SMC made coach- a 96 Sahara 3530. Not as fancy as yours but lots of similarities- including the poor basement lighting. Pretty sure these lamps are on the horizon for our coach too, among the many things on the to-do list. The lights you installed in the basement look awesome- great work.