Install Tornado on 32TSBH with enclosed underbelly myself or let dealer do it?

[Forgvn77]

We're in the process of upgrading our 2011 28BHS to a 2012 32TSBH. The kids need more space in back. Got a great trade and price for the new camper! My local dealer spanked RV Direct and I was most impressed. I'm trying to decide though if I want to tackle installing a Tornado in the black water tank. The 32TSBH has an enclosed underbelly which complicates the process. I installed one on my 28BHS (no thermal package) without problems and works great! Is it better to let the dealer handle it?

Thanks!
John

 

[Cbaka27]

Are you going to upgrade your TV as well. I have the 2011 28BHS and will likely be upgrading to the 32TSBH or 32 BHDS next year. I upgraded my 05 F-150 to a 02 F350.

 

[clubhouse]

I guess if it was me it would all depend on price. As you know they are very easy to install, I did mine in 20-30 min...but like your 28BHS I don't have the corrogated cover on the bottom. If I did, I would probably simply cut a 12"x12" acess pannel for the installation and then put in some 1x2 backing and screw the pannel back on.

 

[clubhouse]

Oh FWIW I would consider the quickie flush vs tornado. I went with the QF based on performance reveiws I found comparing the two.

 

[Forgvn77]

Cbaka27,

Yes, the plan is to upgrade the TV. I'll be spending some quality time looking over used 250's in the coming months. One thing that is nice though is the hitch weight of the 32TSBH is 110 lbs less than the 32BHDS. I picked up a Shurline Tongue Scale (after seeing Rustic Eagle's posts) and will get a verified weight off of it next week.

 

[Forgvn77]

Clubhouse,

My dealer quoted me $387 labor for both tanks. Pretty steep considering the ease of install once you get past the underbelly. I guess I just don't know what to expect on the other side of the underbelly. I looked under the trailer and it looks like they also used spray foam in several spots. I was wondering if the tanks are surrounded by it as well?

 

[Quahog]

I remembered this post from RVHiker that might help you:

http://www.jaycoowners.com/showpost.php?p=65981&postcount=11

 

[clubhouse]

Considering you can buy either for the Tornado or Quickie Flush for about $20 each online and typical RV Shop Rates are $80-$100 hr I'd wouldn't pay $387.

Althouh I still think it is too much, I would consider $200-$225 to have it done. That would be about an hr each tank plus the retail cost of the washer. This way if there is a leak I have someone to blame that isn't me and place to direct my frustration. See if they will do it for $200. Call around, I am sure there are othere RV Techs that would.

 

[clubhouse]

Another thought, I would find out if they are removing and replacing the entire underbelly or cutting an access point.

When I was researching between the Quickie Flush and Tornado I came across several people who had leaking valves or burst hoses but since they where concealed with an underbody cover they didn't know untill too late and they had a big mess. Even on mine after 6 months I had to tighten the nylon fitting where the supply enters the valve to stop a small drip.

Personally I would want a way to inspect it periodically, tt is only a hose clamp securing the the supply line to the rinser. This clamp can come loose with time, travel and weather changes. I know if would partially defeat the covered underbelly, at a minimum I would want a couple of drain holes so if something did happen I would know right away.

Just something else to think about.

 

[Forgvn77]

Good point! I asked my dealer what they planned to do and he said they would remove and replace the underbelly and bid the job at 3 hours. That somewhat explains the price. I agree that cutting access panels is the better way to go. I'll post pics of the results when I'm done. Thanks again for the help!

 

[drfife]

Good point! I asked my dealer what they planned to do and he said they would remove and replace the underbelly and bid the job at 3 hours. That somewhat explains the price. I agree that cutting access panels is the better way to go. I'll post pics of the results when I'm done. Thanks again for the help!

To do it right, you should remove the underbelly to install the access panels so they will be at the correct site and properly backed.