<![CDATA[Newell Gurus - Technology In General]]> https://newellgurus.com/ Wed, 03 Jun 2026 23:09:47 +0000 MyBB <![CDATA[off grid powered solely on solar system]]> https://newellgurus.com/showthread.php?tid=8885 Tue, 10 Mar 2026 02:19:21 +0000 windtrader]]> https://newellgurus.com/showthread.php?tid=8885 I'm interested in a Newell coach and wondering what projects have been done on Newell to get them fully off the pole and tanks (propane and diesel). During my eight years of owning a MCI bus conversion the bus is 100% powered by the sun. Residential solar panels and lithium batteries are the heart of the system. The roof on the Newell looks like plenty of real estate and plenty of bay storage for batteries.

What is the parasitic draw to keep the coach running while off grid? I read something about the slide air seals need air supplied to them, meaning some form of air compressor is using some energy. Besides the refrigerator, hot water heater, and AC, coach lighting, cooktop, what else draws energy while parked?

I'm designing for 3000 watts of solar and 12kWh of lithium as the baseline with the facts I have thus far.

I do include a backup generator as there are rare times where multiple days of low solar energy forces a charge up of the battery bank. So far it is rare: once where it rained non-stop for 5 days and once where fog never lifted for days on end.]]> I'm interested in a Newell coach and wondering what projects have been done on Newell to get them fully off the pole and tanks (propane and diesel). During my eight years of owning a MCI bus conversion the bus is 100% powered by the sun. Residential solar panels and lithium batteries are the heart of the system. The roof on the Newell looks like plenty of real estate and plenty of bay storage for batteries.

What is the parasitic draw to keep the coach running while off grid? I read something about the slide air seals need air supplied to them, meaning some form of air compressor is using some energy. Besides the refrigerator, hot water heater, and AC, coach lighting, cooktop, what else draws energy while parked?

I'm designing for 3000 watts of solar and 12kWh of lithium as the baseline with the facts I have thus far.

I do include a backup generator as there are rare times where multiple days of low solar energy forces a charge up of the battery bank. So far it is rare: once where it rained non-stop for 5 days and once where fog never lifted for days on end.]]> <![CDATA[Adaptive Cruise]]> https://newellgurus.com/showthread.php?tid=8420 Mon, 14 Apr 2025 00:42:10 +0000 jmbushey]]> https://newellgurus.com/showthread.php?tid=8420 <![CDATA[Your modern convinces]]> https://newellgurus.com/showthread.php?tid=8035 Thu, 13 Jun 2024 12:34:22 +0000 onefaststang1]]> https://newellgurus.com/showthread.php?tid=8035
We are completely resto-modding a 76 coach.  This is our first rv, so I am trying to get things right the first time. 

Do you use the open, or would a cook top and air fryer be enough?  More or less outlets?  I'm planning on putting outlets with usb plugs right in them throughout. 

I am thinking about mini splits for heat and ac just not 100% sure on those yet.  

Multiple cameras vs just a single back up cam?

That type of thing.
.jpg 20240609_164744.jpg Size: 3.65 MB  Downloads: 181
]]>
We are completely resto-modding a 76 coach.  This is our first rv, so I am trying to get things right the first time. 

Do you use the open, or would a cook top and air fryer be enough?  More or less outlets?  I'm planning on putting outlets with usb plugs right in them throughout. 

I am thinking about mini splits for heat and ac just not 100% sure on those yet.  

Multiple cameras vs just a single back up cam?

That type of thing.
.jpg 20240609_164744.jpg Size: 3.65 MB  Downloads: 181
]]> <![CDATA[New engines: what you need to know]]> https://newellgurus.com/showthread.php?tid=7834 Thu, 22 Feb 2024 07:17:49 +0000 MrE]]> https://newellgurus.com/showthread.php?tid=7834 [Image: enginegroup-1400-1000x500.jpg]
Building on their 2024 designs, as they look ahead to the model year (MY) 2025, manufacturers of heavy-duty diesel engines remain focused on improved efficiency. The latest developments also continue to go beyond engines alone and include complete powertrain solutions.
“To drive efficiency, engine and powertrain features complement each other,” said Brad Sutton, executive director of powertrain engineering at Cummins. “The result is lower CO2 output and better fuel economy, and a refinement of the driving experience.”
[Image: 2026-X15-01-1400-1000x500.jpg]
To develop integrated powertrain solutions, Cummins has joined forces with Meritor through acquisition of the company and through a joint venture with Eaton. “Now we have the ability in house to influence the entire powertrain as a system across a broad range of applications,” Sutton stated. “We’re able to add even more optimization and features to tune the engine and transmission as a system, and to further optimize fuel economy and performance.”

With the announcement of the new Volvo VNL, Volvo Trucks North America detailed enhancements to the Volvo D13 engine and the I-Shift transmission. “Vehicle efficiency transcends engine performance,” said Duane Tegels, product marketing manager for powertrain at Volvo Trucks North America. “It encompasses the synergy between various components, and the transmission plays a pivotal role.”

To drive fuel efficiency benefits of the I-Shift transmission, Tegels related, Volvo engineers made enhancements that improve shift speeds by up to 30%. “The transmission’s ability to optimize gear shifts, reduce energy loss and harmonize power delivery significantly influences vehicle efficiency,” he said, “showcasing how a holistic approach beyond the engine is vital in achieving optimal performance.”

Len Copeland, product marketing manager at Detroit, pointed out that an ongoing focus for the manufacturer in terms of improving fuel economy is spec optimization. “Our goal is to help customers make the best choices for their operating conditions, for example transmission and axle ratio pairing,” he said. “We’re always keeping attributes like efficiency and performance at the top of our target list.”
[Image: DD13-1400-1000x500.jpg]
Engine updates
The Detroit DD13 engine has been updated to improve thermal management and shorten the amount of time it takes an engine to get up to operating temperature, Copeland noted. “One of the main ways we did this was to adjust our idling strategy,” he explained. “In the past, to get temperatures up asymmetric injection would fuel cylinders at different rates. Now, we have made more use of the Thermal Control Valve, which in addition to helping during regenerations, also operates during start up to help get temperatures up to operating levels faster.”

At Cummins, reported Mark Ulrich, director of customer support, a focus on digital solutions for engines is on three software applications, including remote engine health monitoring, over-the-air calibration and software updates, and predictive service. “Digital technology packages come standard with our engines and are compatible with different telematics hardware from partner OEMs, third-party telematics service providers, and our own first-fit Acumen device,” he related.
“By leveraging service, vehicle, and engineering data and combining it with artificial intelligence and machine learning, we have developed our Predictive Service Insights, which allows us to predict component failures up to 90 days in advance,” Ulrich added. “Connectivity and telematics are important because they impact digital capabilities and change the way we approach maintaining vehicles from reactive to proactive.”
[Image: VO-D13TC-19-0012-1400-1000x500.jpg]
At Volvo, Duane Tegels noted, design enhancements to the D13 engine include combustion improvements enabled by using smaller needle control valves in fuel injectors. The change provides for more precise and rapid control over the fuel flow rate out of the injector tip, leading to improved atomization, and better combustion efficiency.

Volvo Trucks has also introduced an improved seven-wave piston, Tegels related, which provides better directional control of the air and fuel mixture to create even more efficient combustion. “Additionally, the piston height was decreased and paired with a longer connecting rod to minimize cylinder sidewall pressure, decreasing friction and improving performance,” he added. “These improvements provide smoother internal movement, reducing parasitic loss and increasing overall engine efficiency.

“The turbo compounding unit on the Volvo D13 engine is a pivotal element in enhancing fuel efficiency as well, so our engineers have focused on opportunities to further optimize its design,” Tegels continued. “To minimize heat loss and increase efficiency, insulation was added to both the turbocharger and the turbo compounding unit. Internally, turbo compounding unit refinements include a smaller compressor and turbine
The Volvo D13 also features a variable displacement oil pump, which employs adjustable vanes that dynamically adapt to the engine’s oil pressure demands. “Tailoring the pump’s output to match the engine’s requirements maintains optimal pressure,” Tegels explained. “This adaptability not only enhances engine efficiency by reducing the energy required to drive the pump but also minimizes unnecessary strain on the engine components, resulting in improved fuel economy.”

Emissions requirements
In April 2023, EPA announced a proposal to revise existing standards to reduce greenhouse gas emissions from heavy-duty vehicles in MY 2027 and set new, more stringent standards for MYs 2028 through 2032. The proposed program, known as “Phase 3 greenhouse gas,” builds on the success of two previous rulemakings. The Phase 3 standards would apply to heavy-duty vocational vehicles and tractors.

Work toward meeting the proposed standards by engine manufacturers is already underway. Tegels says that Volvo is committed to decarbonizing transportation by understanding emissions regulations and working to design the cleanest and most efficient engines possible. “Understanding the regulations and how they’ll impact our customers is a top priority as we evaluate engine development,” he said.

“The regulatory landscape is evolving quickly and becoming much more complex,” said Detroit’s Len Copeland. “Anytime we can make improvements to aftertreatment system functionality, it’s a win, and we’re pleased when we can offer continuity in our products and minimize the changes that customers may see.”]]> [Image: enginegroup-1400-1000x500.jpg]
Building on their 2024 designs, as they look ahead to the model year (MY) 2025, manufacturers of heavy-duty diesel engines remain focused on improved efficiency. The latest developments also continue to go beyond engines alone and include complete powertrain solutions.
“To drive efficiency, engine and powertrain features complement each other,” said Brad Sutton, executive director of powertrain engineering at Cummins. “The result is lower CO2 output and better fuel economy, and a refinement of the driving experience.”
[Image: 2026-X15-01-1400-1000x500.jpg]
To develop integrated powertrain solutions, Cummins has joined forces with Meritor through acquisition of the company and through a joint venture with Eaton. “Now we have the ability in house to influence the entire powertrain as a system across a broad range of applications,” Sutton stated. “We’re able to add even more optimization and features to tune the engine and transmission as a system, and to further optimize fuel economy and performance.”

With the announcement of the new Volvo VNL, Volvo Trucks North America detailed enhancements to the Volvo D13 engine and the I-Shift transmission. “Vehicle efficiency transcends engine performance,” said Duane Tegels, product marketing manager for powertrain at Volvo Trucks North America. “It encompasses the synergy between various components, and the transmission plays a pivotal role.”

To drive fuel efficiency benefits of the I-Shift transmission, Tegels related, Volvo engineers made enhancements that improve shift speeds by up to 30%. “The transmission’s ability to optimize gear shifts, reduce energy loss and harmonize power delivery significantly influences vehicle efficiency,” he said, “showcasing how a holistic approach beyond the engine is vital in achieving optimal performance.”

Len Copeland, product marketing manager at Detroit, pointed out that an ongoing focus for the manufacturer in terms of improving fuel economy is spec optimization. “Our goal is to help customers make the best choices for their operating conditions, for example transmission and axle ratio pairing,” he said. “We’re always keeping attributes like efficiency and performance at the top of our target list.”
[Image: DD13-1400-1000x500.jpg]
Engine updates
The Detroit DD13 engine has been updated to improve thermal management and shorten the amount of time it takes an engine to get up to operating temperature, Copeland noted. “One of the main ways we did this was to adjust our idling strategy,” he explained. “In the past, to get temperatures up asymmetric injection would fuel cylinders at different rates. Now, we have made more use of the Thermal Control Valve, which in addition to helping during regenerations, also operates during start up to help get temperatures up to operating levels faster.”

At Cummins, reported Mark Ulrich, director of customer support, a focus on digital solutions for engines is on three software applications, including remote engine health monitoring, over-the-air calibration and software updates, and predictive service. “Digital technology packages come standard with our engines and are compatible with different telematics hardware from partner OEMs, third-party telematics service providers, and our own first-fit Acumen device,” he related.
“By leveraging service, vehicle, and engineering data and combining it with artificial intelligence and machine learning, we have developed our Predictive Service Insights, which allows us to predict component failures up to 90 days in advance,” Ulrich added. “Connectivity and telematics are important because they impact digital capabilities and change the way we approach maintaining vehicles from reactive to proactive.”
[Image: VO-D13TC-19-0012-1400-1000x500.jpg]
At Volvo, Duane Tegels noted, design enhancements to the D13 engine include combustion improvements enabled by using smaller needle control valves in fuel injectors. The change provides for more precise and rapid control over the fuel flow rate out of the injector tip, leading to improved atomization, and better combustion efficiency.

Volvo Trucks has also introduced an improved seven-wave piston, Tegels related, which provides better directional control of the air and fuel mixture to create even more efficient combustion. “Additionally, the piston height was decreased and paired with a longer connecting rod to minimize cylinder sidewall pressure, decreasing friction and improving performance,” he added. “These improvements provide smoother internal movement, reducing parasitic loss and increasing overall engine efficiency.

“The turbo compounding unit on the Volvo D13 engine is a pivotal element in enhancing fuel efficiency as well, so our engineers have focused on opportunities to further optimize its design,” Tegels continued. “To minimize heat loss and increase efficiency, insulation was added to both the turbocharger and the turbo compounding unit. Internally, turbo compounding unit refinements include a smaller compressor and turbine
The Volvo D13 also features a variable displacement oil pump, which employs adjustable vanes that dynamically adapt to the engine’s oil pressure demands. “Tailoring the pump’s output to match the engine’s requirements maintains optimal pressure,” Tegels explained. “This adaptability not only enhances engine efficiency by reducing the energy required to drive the pump but also minimizes unnecessary strain on the engine components, resulting in improved fuel economy.”

Emissions requirements
In April 2023, EPA announced a proposal to revise existing standards to reduce greenhouse gas emissions from heavy-duty vehicles in MY 2027 and set new, more stringent standards for MYs 2028 through 2032. The proposed program, known as “Phase 3 greenhouse gas,” builds on the success of two previous rulemakings. The Phase 3 standards would apply to heavy-duty vocational vehicles and tractors.

Work toward meeting the proposed standards by engine manufacturers is already underway. Tegels says that Volvo is committed to decarbonizing transportation by understanding emissions regulations and working to design the cleanest and most efficient engines possible. “Understanding the regulations and how they’ll impact our customers is a top priority as we evaluate engine development,” he said.

“The regulatory landscape is evolving quickly and becoming much more complex,” said Detroit’s Len Copeland. “Anytime we can make improvements to aftertreatment system functionality, it’s a win, and we’re pleased when we can offer continuity in our products and minimize the changes that customers may see.”]]> <![CDATA[Dynamic Cruise?]]> https://newellgurus.com/showthread.php?tid=7772 Sun, 07 Jan 2024 02:37:03 +0000 Bwhitis]]> https://newellgurus.com/showthread.php?tid=7772 ]]> ]]> <![CDATA[BlueFire]]> https://newellgurus.com/showthread.php?tid=7558 Wed, 06 Sep 2023 02:38:45 +0000 BusNit]]> https://newellgurus.com/showthread.php?tid=7558
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]]> <![CDATA[PepLink Modem]]> https://newellgurus.com/showthread.php?tid=7557 Wed, 06 Sep 2023 02:31:27 +0000 BusNit]]> https://newellgurus.com/showthread.php?tid=7557
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]]> <![CDATA[Weather device]]> https://newellgurus.com/showthread.php?tid=7504 Thu, 10 Aug 2023 17:55:14 +0000 Richard]]> https://newellgurus.com/showthread.php?tid=7504
If there are water drops visible, it is raining. 
If there is frost on it, it is cold outside.
If there is snow on it, time to relocate. 
If it’s missing, hurricane or tornado, time to relocate. 
If it’s hot to the touch, the sun is shining. 
If it’s dark, time to go to bed.

Technology is grand !]]>
If there are water drops visible, it is raining. 
If there is frost on it, it is cold outside.
If there is snow on it, time to relocate. 
If it’s missing, hurricane or tornado, time to relocate. 
If it’s hot to the touch, the sun is shining. 
If it’s dark, time to go to bed.

Technology is grand !]]> <![CDATA[Starlink now mobile]]> https://newellgurus.com/showthread.php?tid=7046 Fri, 28 Oct 2022 00:57:12 +0000 SouthernDevGirl]]> https://newellgurus.com/showthread.php?tid=7046
In-motion Starlink is here! No more stopping to connect—stream movies, play games and make video calls all while moving towards your next adventure.

The Flat High Performance Starlink is now available for in-motion use with the Starlink RV service plan.
Orders can be placed immediately at www.starlink.com/rv

With a wide field of view and enhanced GPS capabilities, it can connect to more satellites, allowing for consistent connectivity while on the go. The hardware is designed for a permanent installation and is more resilient to extreme environments.

The new offering is also available through Winegard and can be installed at select RV dealerships nationwide.

Note: you can review their coverage area at: https://www.starlink.com/map?source=rv]]>
In-motion Starlink is here! No more stopping to connect—stream movies, play games and make video calls all while moving towards your next adventure.

The Flat High Performance Starlink is now available for in-motion use with the Starlink RV service plan.
Orders can be placed immediately at www.starlink.com/rv

With a wide field of view and enhanced GPS capabilities, it can connect to more satellites, allowing for consistent connectivity while on the go. The hardware is designed for a permanent installation and is more resilient to extreme environments.

The new offering is also available through Winegard and can be installed at select RV dealerships nationwide.

Note: you can review their coverage area at: https://www.starlink.com/map?source=rv]]> <![CDATA[110v - 120V 15 amp shore power]]> https://newellgurus.com/showthread.php?tid=6912 Tue, 02 Aug 2022 15:14:17 +0000 Parisjet]]> https://newellgurus.com/showthread.php?tid=6912 Question is does it work on 120V outlet with a 120V to 220V 50 amp adapter? what am i doing wrong?
  • I made sure it isn't hooked up to a ground fault outlet
  • I am going direct to the outlet without a extension cord
  • I have 120V power on both the X & Y terminals of the adapter (pulled apart enough to probe with a voltmeter)
  • I have 120V power inside the contractor box on one leg only
  • Do I have an adapter that is not the correct one?

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]]> Question is does it work on 120V outlet with a 120V to 220V 50 amp adapter? what am i doing wrong?
  • I made sure it isn't hooked up to a ground fault outlet
  • I am going direct to the outlet without a extension cord
  • I have 120V power on both the X & Y terminals of the adapter (pulled apart enough to probe with a voltmeter)
  • I have 120V power inside the contractor box on one leg only
  • Do I have an adapter that is not the correct one?

.jpg 220v-plug-wiring-diagram.jpg Size: 201.73 KB  Downloads: 126
]]> <![CDATA[Who has a Cat 3208 Diesel engine?]]> https://newellgurus.com/showthread.php?tid=6605 Mon, 07 Feb 2022 20:56:37 +0000 Mageeacres]]> https://newellgurus.com/showthread.php?tid=6605 <![CDATA[Video doorbell]]> https://newellgurus.com/showthread.php?tid=6396 Wed, 20 Oct 2021 21:12:29 +0000 MrE]]> https://newellgurus.com/showthread.php?tid=6396
“So this co, Wyze, has been making some smart home tech for a few years now aimed at a more budget friendly market and I have tried some of their stuff just to get a take This is the video launching their new video doorbell.”
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=KJX4aSdy...annel=Wyze

If you already have WiFi it's a no wire solution,]]>
“So this co, Wyze, has been making some smart home tech for a few years now aimed at a more budget friendly market and I have tried some of their stuff just to get a take This is the video launching their new video doorbell.”
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=KJX4aSdy...annel=Wyze

If you already have WiFi it's a no wire solution,]]> <![CDATA[HOW TO: Getting Connected to the Internet on the Road]]> https://newellgurus.com/showthread.php?tid=6392 Tue, 19 Oct 2021 01:10:06 +0000 CaptainGizmo]]> https://newellgurus.com/showthread.php?tid=6392
My “gift”, if you will, is the love of technology and to make it usable yet understandable.  I’ve done this for years and years and, now that I am an RV-er, I’ve had the “prodding” to start making videos to help others.  So, I guess that’s what retirement is for, huh?  LOL!

Seriously though, I get a TON of enjoyment from seeing others have the lightbulb come on and suddenly make sense of the topic that once made them run for the hills!

So, that said…this video seems to be helping others so I wanted to post it as it’s own topic here, to make it easier to find.  Please let me know if you have any questions or need clarification.

ENJOY!!

Getting Connected to the Internet on the Road with a Pepwave Transit Duo]]>
My “gift”, if you will, is the love of technology and to make it usable yet understandable.  I’ve done this for years and years and, now that I am an RV-er, I’ve had the “prodding” to start making videos to help others.  So, I guess that’s what retirement is for, huh?  LOL!

Seriously though, I get a TON of enjoyment from seeing others have the lightbulb come on and suddenly make sense of the topic that once made them run for the hills!

So, that said…this video seems to be helping others so I wanted to post it as it’s own topic here, to make it easier to find.  Please let me know if you have any questions or need clarification.

ENJOY!!

Getting Connected to the Internet on the Road with a Pepwave Transit Duo]]> <![CDATA[Newell Introduces SmartDrive System]]> https://newellgurus.com/showthread.php?tid=6262 Sat, 21 Aug 2021 04:58:00 +0000 Fulltiming]]> https://newellgurus.com/showthread.php?tid=6262
Once again, Andrew Steele gets to showcase the new system in his video: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=NZJeYKF7ueM

[Image: normal_1732_SmartDrive_and_Comfort_Mode.jpg]

Height and SmartDrive status upper right in green. Mode (Comfort or Sport) bottom just left of center.]]>
Once again, Andrew Steele gets to showcase the new system in his video: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=NZJeYKF7ueM

[Image: normal_1732_SmartDrive_and_Comfort_Mode.jpg]

Height and SmartDrive status upper right in green. Mode (Comfort or Sport) bottom just left of center.]]> <![CDATA[Newell Introduces N1 System]]> https://newellgurus.com/showthread.php?tid=6242 Fri, 13 Aug 2021 23:05:10 +0000 Fulltiming]]> https://newellgurus.com/showthread.php?tid=6242 https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=x4YSV9BLiRw

Newell has added their new N1 system that controls all lights, shades, etc. James Neatherry, VP of Engineering, gives a walk through of the new system. It eliminates 12 volt fuses and can reset any circuit from the bay or over the drivers side. It replaces the manual light switches at each location throughout the coach with either a 7" or 5" touchscreen that simulates the switches previous used. The screens are in the same locations as the previous switch panels so there are a bunch of them. This system has been used in marine applications for the past 3 years.]]> https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=x4YSV9BLiRw

Newell has added their new N1 system that controls all lights, shades, etc. James Neatherry, VP of Engineering, gives a walk through of the new system. It eliminates 12 volt fuses and can reset any circuit from the bay or over the drivers side. It replaces the manual light switches at each location throughout the coach with either a 7" or 5" touchscreen that simulates the switches previous used. The screens are in the same locations as the previous switch panels so there are a bunch of them. This system has been used in marine applications for the past 3 years.]]>