05-04-2013, 11:28 AM
Clark,
I installed a Suburan model SW6DEM combo Gas, 110v Electric w/motor aid and electronic ignition. I removed an original American unit. It was a fairly stright forward installation however I did have to modify the original hole slightly... we're talking 1/4" or so.. I ran a 100 vac from my rear electrical panel over to the WH as well as wires for the new switch which I mounted on the wall. As there was a rear heat supplied by coolent from the engine I just replaced the hoses from the Y fittings (2) on the existing system. I then made a manifold with gate valves in which I could isloate the interior heater from the water heater or control the flow as needed to each (I considered intalling a Temping Valve but chose the old fasion way.. Open as needed) The propane line is already there so no problem there. In my planning I also left provisions to add at a later date a 12V coolent circulation pump to pre-heat the engine..(didn't really need it in AZ) It worked fine as installed had to tweek the engine coolent flow a couple of times to prevent scalding you with the motor aid feature... This model has the 110 vac switch mounted on the outside of the unit, I've seen some that had a double switch panel on the inside so you can choose gas or electric.. wasn't a real problem as it prevents one from accidently selecting electric with no water in the tank... You have to buy the door seperately as there is choices..
I've attached some info and photos.. any questions let me know..
this was the old heater
I installed a Suburan model SW6DEM combo Gas, 110v Electric w/motor aid and electronic ignition. I removed an original American unit. It was a fairly stright forward installation however I did have to modify the original hole slightly... we're talking 1/4" or so.. I ran a 100 vac from my rear electrical panel over to the WH as well as wires for the new switch which I mounted on the wall. As there was a rear heat supplied by coolent from the engine I just replaced the hoses from the Y fittings (2) on the existing system. I then made a manifold with gate valves in which I could isloate the interior heater from the water heater or control the flow as needed to each (I considered intalling a Temping Valve but chose the old fasion way.. Open as needed) The propane line is already there so no problem there. In my planning I also left provisions to add at a later date a 12V coolent circulation pump to pre-heat the engine..(didn't really need it in AZ) It worked fine as installed had to tweek the engine coolent flow a couple of times to prevent scalding you with the motor aid feature... This model has the 110 vac switch mounted on the outside of the unit, I've seen some that had a double switch panel on the inside so you can choose gas or electric.. wasn't a real problem as it prevents one from accidently selecting electric with no water in the tank... You have to buy the door seperately as there is choices..
I've attached some info and photos.. any questions let me know..
Jimmy