Prevost Keyless Entry Code and Fuse Questions

Here I've shared a couple technical questions from my old Country Coach magazine publishing days as answered for CC PREVOST owners. Hopefully you'll find the information of help if you're ever experiencing a similar dilemma.

Question: When we purchased our used 2002 Prevost Conversion, we weren’t provided with the code for the keyless entry system. Can you help?

Answer: The keyless entry system on your coach has two codes, the 'dealer' code which is fixed, and the user programmable customer code which you can change as often as you wish. If you weren't provided with your dealer code, then good news! The code can be found on a label on the keyless entry module located behind the dash on the passenger side. The module is white in color, and the code can usually be viewed with a flashlight, simply by removing the entry door's upper hinge cover. Once you have the five digit dealer code, simply punch it in using the keypad on the door. Next, press the 1/2 button followed by your desired five digit customer code. Don't delay longer than five seconds between any of the aforementioned button presses or you will exit the programming mode prematurely. To clear the customer code, punch in the dealer code followed by the 1/2 button and stop there. Assuming you were successful in programming the customer code of your choice, then simply punch it in to unlock the entry door. Pressing the 3/4 button after entering your code will unlock the bay doors, and pressing 7/8 together with 9/0 will relock all the doors including the entry door.

Originally answered by Brian Keys, Country Coach Inc Electrical Engineering Department, Spring 2006

Question: I have a problem with the fuse that supplies power to the tow car lighting on my 1996 Prevost Conversion. The fuse will intermittently blow for some inexplicable reason. I have had the tow wiring checked on both my tow car and the coach with no problem found. I assume there is a short in the wiring somewhere, but how do I go about tracking it down?

Answer: Circuit #420 that supplies power for the lights on your tow car also supplies power to the compressor clutch for the chassis air conditioning system. You most likely have a failing winding in your compressor clutch that will cause the fuse to blow anytime the clutch is energized to cool your coach on a hot day or to defrost your windshield.  Open up your engine compartment and locate the air conditioning compressor on the right of the engine. Disconnect the single wire that feeds power to the clutch at its connector on top of the compressor. Supply fused 20A power to the clutch through this wire and use a clamp on amp meter to measure the current being drawn. A brief burst of current as the clutch energizes with a sharp clunk is normal but it should settle down to about 8A within a split second. A current of 10A or more might indicate a failing winding in the compressor clutch that should be replaced at your earliest opportunity. While in the area, take a close look at the two hose fittings on the rear of the compressor. The seal for these hose fittings can wear with time due to engine vibration and begin to leak as evident by any oil streaks around the connection. The fitting may also develop a leak where it is crimped onto the hose and both of these should be inspected annually in the spring so timely repairs can be made if necessary in preparation for the hot summer months. Remember to always replace the filter/dryer in the system once it has been opened for repair!

Originally answered by Brian Keys, Country Coach Inc Electrical Engineer Summer 2005