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Camplite => Camplite Mods / Upgrades => Topic started by: charliem on June 20, 2014, 08:39:54 PM

Title: Fantastic Fan Update
Post by: charliem on June 20, 2014, 08:39:54 PM
[font size="3"][font face="arial"]Here's an update on a Fantastic Fan upgrade. I had a 4000R installed because I could get it installed, including labor, for just a few bucks more than than I could buy the fan on the net with the supplies needed. All done by Camping World with them supplying the material. The first fan was defective out of the box (only discovered after complete installation) so they replaced it with a 5000R for the same price.

Input DC current for the FF is specified at 1.86/2.29/3.0 Amps on low/med/high, however I actually measured 1.0/1.27/1.61. Apparently the spec values are starting currents, more useful for fuse sizing.

As a comparison I measured two of the OEM single speed fans; one at 2.0A, the other at 1.8A. The fans are marked at 1.6A. Can you say Chinese quality control?

Bottom line for those interested in power consumption, the FF draws 1A on low vs 2A for the OEM Lil' Screamer, moves more air, and is quieter. Even on high the FF current is lower than the OEM Lil' Screamer.
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Title: Fantastic Fan Update
Post by: tinkeringtechie on June 20, 2014, 08:49:07 PM
Welcome to the club  8-)

Now only if we can convince LL to put them in at the factory we could save everyone else some grief.
Title: Fantastic Fan Update
Post by: funpilot on June 20, 2014, 11:47:24 PM
I am asking them to put them in the trailer I am working on.  Let's see what happens.
Title: Fantastic Fan Update
Post by: charliem on June 21, 2014, 09:59:09 AM
[quote source="/post/1618/thread" timestamp="1403318844" author="@funpilot"]I am asking them to put them in the trailer I am working on.  Let's see what happens. [/quote][font size="3"][font face="arial"]Be sure to specify Fantastic fans by name and model number. They have a "high powered" fan option that some confuse with a Fantastic. It's easier to argue before than after  8-). Consider including the Fantastic Vent [/font][font face="arial"]UltraBreeze [/font][/font][font size="3"][font face="arial"]UB1500SM [/font][/font][font size="3"][font face="arial"]cov[/font][/font][font size="3"][font face="arial"]ers . They're really nice and let you leave the vents open in rain. May not fit on the bath fan, but will on either/both the others.
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Title: Fantastic Fan Update
Post by: funpilot on June 21, 2014, 10:42:37 AM
I like that cover.  Does not require the rain sensor!  So, I think I will ask for:

http://www.amazon.com/Fan-Tastic-Vent-2250-Reverse-Thermostat/dp/B000BRF3VS

http://www.amazon.com/Fan-Tastic-Vent-UB1500SM-Smoke-Breeze/dp/B007HGF4AG

Does that look right?
Title: Fantastic Fan Update
Post by: funpilot on June 21, 2014, 10:53:36 AM
There appears to be a screw-less mounting option that I cannot find anything about.  Have you read about it?  On reading further, it just may be that all the new models are the clamp style.  What do you all know?
Title: Fantastic Fan Update
Post by: charliem on June 21, 2014, 11:47:24 AM
[quote source="/post/1623/thread" timestamp="1403358157" author="@funpilot"]I like that cover.  Does not require the rain sensor!  So, I think I will ask for:

http://www.amazon.com/Fan-Tastic-Vent-2250-Reverse-Thermostat/dp/B000BRF3VS

http://www.amazon.com/Fan-Tastic-Vent-UB1500SM-Smoke-Breeze/dp/B007HGF4AG

Does that look right?
[/quote][font size="3"][font face="arial"]Looks right. The thermostat model wouldn't have been my choice if it hadn't come free because I don't need it, but it will work. [/font][font face="arial"]Correct, no rain sensor and auto closer needed. Less to go wrong.
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Title: Fantastic Fan Update
Post by: charliem on June 21, 2014, 11:53:00 AM
[quote source="/post/1624/thread" timestamp="1403358816" author="@funpilot"]There appears to be a screw-less mounting option that I cannot find anything about.  Have you read about it?  On reading further, it just may be that all the new models are the clamp style.  What do you all know? [/quote][font size="3"][font face="arial"]Not sure what you're referring to. According to the FanTastic video, removal of the UltraBreeze for cleaning etc. takes less than a minute.  [/font][font face="arial"]It looks like they use little clip things whose name escapes me.
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Title: Fantastic Fan Update
Post by: funpilot on June 21, 2014, 01:30:41 PM
I have read elsewhere that the latest fan-tastic vents are "clamp tightened" from the inside so no outside screws.  I will call them to confirm that on Monday.  
Title: Fantastic Fan Update
Post by: tinkeringtechie on June 21, 2014, 01:43:42 PM
Quote from: @funpilot" source="/post/1628/thread" timestamp="1403368241I have read elsewhere that the latest fan-tastic vents are "clamp tightened" from the inside so no outside screws.  I will call them to confirm that on Monday.  


I think those are OEM only. Maybe LL could put one in for you.
Title: Fantastic Fan Update
Post by: farmboy on June 21, 2014, 02:56:50 PM
A  dealer states that there is a Fantastic Fan on a  2015,   In  looking at their  picture and comparing it to one  of a Fantastic Fan I found at a retail online site, it does appear to be one.
  http://www.southlandrv.com/georgia/atlanta/ultra-light-travel-trailers/2015-Livin-Lite-Camplite-21RBS-id427.html
Or is it the Vortex?   Or it might be a dealer added option.  If LivinLite won't install a Fantastic fan, sounds like the best thing to do is stick with the standard fan (that blade looks really wimpy) and swap it out later, as some of the folks on this site have done.  

Title: Fantastic Fan Update
Post by: tinkeringtechie on June 21, 2014, 04:26:53 PM
[quote source="/post/1630/thread" timestamp="1403373410" author="@farmboy"]A  dealer states that there is a Fantastic Fan on a  2015,   In  looking at their  picture and comparing it to one  of a Fantastic Fan I found at a retail online site, it does appear to be one.
  http://www.southlandrv.com/georgia/atlanta/ultra-light-travel-trailers/2015-Livin-Lite-Camplite-21RBS-id427.html
Or is it the Vortex?   Or it might be a dealer added option.  If LivinLite won't install a Fantastic fan, sounds like the best thing to do is stick with the standard fan (that blade looks really wimpy) and swap it out later, as some of the folks on this site have done.  

[/quote]That's definitely a fantastic fan, but whether it came with it or the dealer added it is still a mystery.
Title: Fantastic Fan Update
Post by: charliem on June 21, 2014, 05:55:26 PM
[quote source="/post/1631/thread" timestamp="1403378813" author="@tinkeringtechie"][quote source="/post/1630/thread" timestamp="1403373410" author="@farmboy"]A  dealer states that there is a Fantastic Fan on a  2015,   In  looking at their  picture and comparing it to one  of a Fantastic Fan I found at a retail online site, it does appear to be one.
  http://www.southlandrv.com/georgia/atlanta/ultra-light-travel-trailers/2015-Livin-Lite-Camplite-21RBS-id427.html
Or is it the Vortex?   Or it might be a dealer added option.  If LivinLite won't install a Fantastic fan, sounds like the best thing to do is stick with the standard fan (that blade looks really wimpy) and swap it out later, as some of the folks on this site have done.  

[/quote]That's definitely a fantastic fan, but whether it came with it or the dealer added it is still a mystery.[/quote][font face="arial" size="3"]My guess is it came from the factory that way. It would be really weird for [/font][font face="arial" size="3"]the dealer to selectively make that upgrade on the lot, although they could have ordered that way. Also note the shower skylight. I think we on this forum are making a difference. Hats off to LL for responding to their customers. I think we are witnessing the evolution of LL from building light motorcycle trailers to building very good travel trailers.

Can anyone spot the tank monitor that's rumored? There's something on the far left above the TV table. I have the 120V WH switch there, but the electric WH was added.  On the wall to the right of the stove top there appear to be 4 plates. Charging center, water pump switch, GFCI 120V outlet, but there is something between the 120V outlet and the pump switch 
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Title: Fantastic Fan Update
Post by: shovelhead on June 21, 2014, 07:05:34 PM
They are closed now and Sunday.   I can check Monday.  That is Southland where I bought my 21RBS.   I have an errand to run and I'll pass right by them.
Title: Fantastic Fan Update
Post by: bah on June 21, 2014, 09:02:31 PM
Farmboy I am one of the owners of Southland RV. It is a fantastic fan model 4000r I special order all or my Camplites with the fantastic fan and a Gas/Electric water heater. I have been working on the tank monitor for 2 years and we are close but not yet to add it to the unit at our shop it is about $ 500 for a good one. We have been selling Livin lite products for a long time and understand them very well if you have any questions please feel free to contact me. 
Title: Fantastic Fan Update
Post by: charliem on June 21, 2014, 10:22:25 PM
[font size="3"][font face="arial"]Ah so. Now the truth come out. bah ordered the Fantastic 4000R and LL put it in. So far so good. Also bah orders the gas/electric WH, also good.

Some other observations from the web pictures:

[ol type="decimal"][li]The awning is mounted further to the rear so it clears the bedroom window. Good.[/li][li]The tank monitor doesn't show up because it isn't there.[/li][li]I can't see any evidence of a black tank flusher. Mine has the hose connection just aft of the rear external storage door on the curb side.[/li][li]The bathroom door opens opposite to mine. I think mox-nix. [/li][/ol][p]
[/p][p]Note to bah: Check out the SeeLevel 709 tank monitor from Garnet Industries. Less than $200 plus your labor. Glad to have you on our forum.
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Title: Fantastic Fan Update
Post by: bah on June 21, 2014, 10:46:05 PM
Thanks That is the tank monitor we have used the install is a little over 3 hours we have been mounting in the bathroom cabinet. As far as the flusher we are not big on putting holes in the tanks we will do it just do not like it. It is a camplite just us the tank wand or a Holding Tank Rinser with Gate Valve. 
Title: Fantastic Fan Update
Post by: charliem on June 21, 2014, 11:00:48 PM
[quote source="/post/1639/thread" timestamp="1403401565" author="@bah"]Thanks That is the tank monitor we have used the install is a little over 3 hours we have been mounting in the bathroom cabinet. As far as the flusher we are not big on putting holes in the tanks we will do it just do not like it. It is a camplite just us the tank wand or a Holding Tank Rinser with Gate Valve. [/quote][font size="3"]Thanks for the reply,

Several of us have put in the SeeLevel monitors and like them very much. Your three hours doesn't sound excessive for aftermarket, but the factory could do it so much easier during the build. I understand your reluctance on the backflusher, but it can be done and is so much better than the wands etc. From what I see and read the TT industry is increasingly installing them as standard.
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Title: Fantastic Fan Update
Post by: tinkeringtechie on June 22, 2014, 12:06:50 AM
[quote source="/post/1640/thread" timestamp="1403402448" author="@charliem"][quote source="/post/1639/thread" timestamp="1403401565" author="@bah"]Thanks That is the tank monitor we have used the install is a little over 3 hours we have been mounting in the bathroom cabinet. As far as the flusher we are not big on putting holes in the tanks we will do it just do not like it. It is a camplite just us the tank wand or a Holding Tank Rinser with Gate Valve. [/quote][font size="3"]Thanks for the reply,

Several of us have put in the SeeLevel monitors and like them very much. Your three hours doesn't sound excessive for aftermarket, but the factory could do it so much easier during the build. I understand your reluctance on the backflusher, but it can be done and is so much better than the wands etc. From what I see and read the TT industry is increasingly installing them as standard.
[/font][/quote]I actually ended up getting both the tank wand and the "flush king" gate valve flusher. I had the wand first and it works extremely well, but there were a couple things that I didn't like for during trips:

[ul type="disc"][li]You have to carry the wand in/out of the trailer potentially dripping contaminated water on the floor[/li][li]It takes a while if you want to use it to fill the tank, so you have to stand there with you foot on the toilet valve[/li][li]You're inside and the valves are outside so you have to go in and out a few times.[/li][/ul][div]
I can still see myself using it after a long trip or before storage to "scrub" the tank because it seems to do a more thorough job than just filling and hoping that everything comes out. But the gate valve flusher is better for during trips for the above three reasons.[/div]
Title: Fantastic Fan Update
Post by: fasteddieb on June 22, 2014, 08:28:21 AM
Welcome "bah".

You guys have done warranty work on the electrical system, and some other minor items, of our 21BHS - purchased elsewhere. And done a good job so far!

Have we met? And do you like being called "bah"?
Title: Fantastic Fan Update
Post by: shovelhead on June 22, 2014, 11:41:09 AM
Welcome BAH... I know you......  8-)  Yourself and Matt were very helpful when I purchased the LL 21RBS in April.  8104 miles later it is a great TT!!!

Dave
Title: Fantastic Fan Update
Post by: farmboy on June 22, 2014, 03:48:59 PM
I wish I was closer to Southland RV; I would like working with a dealer like them.    But Minnesota is a bit of drive from Georgia!   But if I find myself in the area  needing work on my Camplite, once I get one, I know where to go, and  I plan on being  in the south during the winter months.  Great to know the Fantastic Fan can be installed; I wonder if two would be overkill in the 16 or 21 models?  
 
Title: Fantastic Fan Update
Post by: charliem on June 22, 2014, 05:28:15 PM
[quote source="/post/1652/thread" timestamp="1403462939" author="@farmboy"]Great to know the Fantastic Fan can be installed; I wonder if two would be overkill in the 16 or 21 models?  
  [/quote][font face="arial" size="3"]The 21s come with three small fans. Putting a Fantastic in the center seems plenty, leaving the one in the bath for occasional use when you need extra air such as showers, etc. The one over the bed probably open only for passive air flow. Don't know what comes in the 16s, but I would guess one Fantastic is plenty. They move a lot of air, quietly.
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Title: Fantastic Fan Update
Post by: mdp on July 28, 2014, 03:03:51 PM
[font face="comic sans ms" color="#1979e6" size="4"]I am having a Fantastic fan put over the kitchen in my CL 21 rear bath.  The fan that is being replaced is being put in the bathroom, to really suck out steam from hot water shower. The little fan from the bathroom I will figure out something to do with.

any ideas???

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Title: Fantastic Fan Update
Post by: charliem on July 28, 2014, 04:06:48 PM
[quote source="/post/2182/thread" timestamp="1406570631" author="@mdp"][font face="comic sans ms" color="#1979e6" size="4"]I am having a Fantastic fan put over the kitchen in my CL 21 rear bath.  The fan that is being replaced is being put in the bathroom, to really suck out steam from hot water shower. The little fan from the bathroom I will figure out something to do with.

any ideas???

[/font][/quote][font size="3"]I assume the fan you're moving to the bath is LL's "high power" option. I recently replaced my small kitchen fan with a Fantastic 5000R. Being a TechnoJunkie I saved the old fan, but I have no idea what I'll do with it. Maybe a spare for the other small fans, but I'd probably upgrade to Fantastics if they fail. It will probably just take up space in a drawer until I move it to the trash.[/font]
Title: Fantastic Fan Update
Post by: aznighthiker on July 28, 2014, 05:36:44 PM
Use the fan to expel warm air away from your refrigerator.
Title: Fantastic Fan Update
Post by: fasteddieb on August 02, 2014, 08:04:44 AM
Don't know if these are great deals or not, but Camping World is having a sale on several models for the next day or so - just go to their site and search.
Title: Fantastic Fan Update
Post by: furpod on August 13, 2014, 07:32:05 PM
bah, do you also spec the skylight on your orders? I can't for the life of me understand how LL thinks nobody is over 5'8".