Trik-L-Start installation

There is an actual Trik-l-start behind the coolant tank and it's connected to the solenoid and periodically switches to charging (did once while I was looking at it and did right after I hit the switch inside the RV).

I did not request it on the build sheet. (I checked as I don't trust my memory!)

I did add solar through AMSolar afterwards but it does not make sense that they would have added it as the solar controller has it's own secondary battery charging system which I had them set up to charge the truck battery. It does show up on the solar controller display, showing whether charging or not and how charged the truck battery is. (It has become intermittent   , often showing no data which I need to figure out why and fix)

So...

Don't know if I can contribute information, or just add to the confusion regarding factory Trick-L-Start installation.  Just got back with my new 2552 from the factory last Sunday, and as weather allowed was going over the rig.  Was under the hood this afternoon, and found a Trick-L-Start installed in the familiar location behind the coolant reservoir.  I did NOT specify this installation, in fact, I had already purchased my own Trick-L-Start that I planned to install as one of my first upgrades to my unit.

In reviewing just this single thread, there doesn't seem to be a lot of consistency to when the factory installs this feature.  Looking through the posts, and reviewing ONLY 2552 models, I find the following: JATRAX bought a 2017 model in 11/16 and did NOT have the Trick-L-Start installed; GANDALF42 bought a 2017 in 5/17 and DID find a Trick-L-Start; JDIMITRIADIS got a 2018 model in 5/18 with no Trick-L-Start; and ASHBY bought a 2019 model in 9/18 also with no Trick-L-Start; then I received my 2019 model in 2/19 that DID have a Trick-L-Start.  I don't know if there is some other option that triggers Phoenix to install this feature, but I don't think so, since most of my options match others that didn't have it.

I think the Trick-L-Start is a worthwhile addition; it's inexpensive, simple to install, and evidently the factory is willing to "throw it in" by virtue of the fact that they install it at times when not specified, and also have in past shipped one to the buyer after the fact upon a complaint.  Until this is verified as a new standard install on all units, it would seem that buyers spec'ing a new unit might want to mention that they'd like one of these units included to be sure they get it factory installed.

As an aside, I now have a Trick-L-Start unit that I bought that I don't need.  I'll be glad to donate it to someone who might need one if you will let me know.

Mike

Don't know if I can contribute information, or just add to the confusion regarding factory Trick-L-Start installation.  Just got back with my new 2552 from the factory last Sunday, and as weather allowed was going over the rig.  Was under the hood this afternoon, and found a Trick-L-Start installed in the familiar location behind the coolant reservoir.  I did NOT specify this installation, in fact, I had already purchased my own Trick-L-Start that I planned to install as one of my first upgrades to my unit.

In reviewing just this single thread, there doesn't seem to be a lot of consistency to when the factory installs this feature.  Looking through the posts, and reviewing ONLY 2552 models, I find the following: JATRAX bought a 2017 model in 11/16 and did NOT have the Trick-L-Start installed; GANDALF42 bought a 2017 in 5/17 and DID find a Trick-L-Start; JDIMITRIADIS got a 2018 model in 5/18 with no Trick-L-Start; and ASHBY bought a 2019 model in 9/18 also with no Trick-L-Start; then I received my 2019 model in 2/19 that DID have a Trick-L-Start.  I don't know if there is some other option that triggers Phoenix to install this feature, but I don't think so, since most of my options match others that didn't have it.

I think the Trick-L-Start is a worthwhile addition; it's inexpensive, simple to install, and evidently the factory is willing to "throw it in" by virtue of the fact that they install it at times when not specified, and also have in past shipped one to the buyer after the fact upon a complaint.  Until this is verified as a new standard install on all units, it would seem that buyers spec'ing a new unit might want to mention that they'd like one of these units included to be sure they get it factory installed.

As an aside, I now have a Trick-L-Start unit that I bought that I don't need.  I'll be glad to donate it to someone who might need one if you will let me know.

Mike

Mike

I am interested in adding a Trik-L-Start to my RV.  I have had my starting battery die a couple of times while storing the RV over the winter, I think it is the in and out of the automatic step that drains it down the most. 

By the way, congratulations on your new RV!!  How are the tables working out for you?

JJ

Hi JJ!

Thanks for the contrats--I'm glad to finally get the waiting over with and actually be an owner.  The tables work great, and are one of my favorite (and most useful) features of my unit!  You know how glad I was to find out about them when you posted your photos!  I was really torn between getting the recliner/sofa for the usability, comfort and extra sleep space, but having to give up table/desk space to get it.  It looked like almost no one actually went to the trouble to set up the portable table for intermittent use, so  I had resigned myself to making do with the pull-up top in the cabinet set replacing the euro chair for computer work, etc.  Then I saw your post, and that ideal solution was obvious!  Phoenix installed the double doors on the pantry, so I have ready access to the top two drawers like you do.  I haven't converted my bottom drawer to a shelf, yet--I'll see how things best fit as I begin using the unit.

Glad to pass along my extra Trik-L-Start.  If you will PM me an address, I'll put it in the mail and let you know when it's on the way.

Mike

As far as I know EVERY PC  that I have seen in the past 10 years has a momentary switch just to the left of the steering wheel on the dash.
When you push the switch and hold it on you will notice that you are charging your Ford battery. If you don't believe this, plug in a digital voltmeter to one of the 12v outlets on your dash before pushing the button. Push and you will hear a relay click and the Ford battery voltage will now increase. Let switch go and it will quit charging.
Now for those that don't want to sit there and hold this momentary switch in the on position, here is what I suggest and guarantee nothing bad will happen.
You can buy a 20 amp 12v switch that is identical to the momentary switch. Take out the 2 screws, slide off the wires, pop-out that switch and pop-in the new switch and push the wires onto the new switch. (either wire goes on either terminal). Reinstall screws, total time a 5 minute job.
I leave this switch on whenever RV is in storage, months at a time, since my solar arrays charge all 3 batteries. Note, two things do occur which of course is not a problem. Your step will not remain out with the door closed and your awning will not be able to be deployed.
Also when I'm parked in a campsite for a week or two, I monitor my Ford battery, if it drops to 12.4v, I flip on the switch for about 30 minutes to recharge the Ford battery, then I turn it off. If I forget, I'll notice because the step goes out when I open the door.
Some owners told me that Kermit said he uses a locking relay and when pressed relay locks, press again and it opens. I never saw one operate this way.
If you don't have solar you can still use to make sure Ford battery doesn't go too low when camped with campsite/home power for a long duration.

Hi JJ!

Thanks for the contrats--I'm glad to finally get the waiting over with and actually be an owner.  The tables work great, and are one of my favorite (and most useful) features of my unit!  You know how glad I was to find out about them when you posted your photos!  I was really torn between getting the recliner/sofa for the usability, comfort and extra sleep space, but having to give up table/desk space to get it.  It looked like almost no one actually went to the trouble to set up the portable table for intermittent use, so  I had resigned myself to making do with the pull-up top in the cabinet set replacing the euro chair for computer work, etc.  Then I saw your post, and that ideal solution was obvious!  Phoenix installed the double doors on the pantry, so I have ready access to the top two drawers like you do.  I haven't converted my bottom drawer to a shelf, yet--I'll see how things best fit as I begin using the unit.

Glad to pass along my extra Trik-L-Start.  If you will PM me an address, I'll put it in the mail and let you know when it's on the way.

Mike

Thanks to MikeH, I was able to install a Trik-L-Start this morning on my PC.  The installation was straight forward and based on the LED lights on the unit, it appears to be working great.  It is still a mystery why PC installs on some RVs, but not all.

Thanks again Mike!!


JJ