This is absolutely the best and easiest mod you can make to your camper! Ordered these adapters and they arrived in 3 days and with this excellent video, was done in less than 30 minutes! AND it looks like a factory install! Great item and great service!
I just did this last week, your video was very helpful. I have a Jayco trailer and the wiring was the same as yours. Very easy and no splicing into the wiring system of the trailer, which is what I liked.
Thank you all!! This little DYI project worked perfectly for our awning lights on our Grand Design Reflection 260RD Fifth Wheel. We hit a big road block with the installation on the ceiling lights because the panel switch in the Reflection model is a lighted switch with three terminals. We tried every possible wiring configuration without luck. If anyone has any suggestions, we'd appreciate the help. Taking it to the next level, I purchased dimmers for the lights over the dining table, couch, bedroom and bathroom. I have light grey eyes and can't handle bright light. I tried three different options and all worked perfectly. The larger dimmer switch with the big dimmer slider was my favorite but required cutting a bigger hole with a dremel. But the least expensive model with the touch panel worked just as well. Over all this is one of the best "Pimp My RV" projects you can do. Everyone will appreciate the ambience. www.amazon.com/gp/product/B079TL2KQ4/ref=ppx_yo_dt_b_asin_title_o00_s00?ie=UTF8&psc=1 www.amazon.com/gp/product/B079TJTP1W/ref=ppx_yo_dt_b_asin_title_o00_s00?ie=UTF8&psc=1 www.amazon.com/gp/product/B081FC5BGH/ref=ppx_yo_dt_b_asin_title_o00_s01?ie=UTF8&psc=1
With the PCA brand dimmer, you just ignore the ground wire (usually white) that went to the original switch. The remaining two wires get wired as the video or included directions. I also have a not for the 3 wire lighted switch on my instructions.
@@twk1956 the instructions I include with the adapters. They just state to omit the 3rd white ground wire that goes to the lit switch. Wire per the instructions for + side led dimming.
Hello! I'm working on this mod, but when I went to pull the switches off of the dimmers, the whole stem came with it. I was able to pull the stem out, but it seems to just pop back into the dimmer, and when I put it behind the plate and try to reattach the switch, it just spins around. I don't get an on or off "click". Any suggestions would be greatly appreciated!
The 4 wire dimmers are not recommended. You want to use the PCA brand because it supports “high side dimming”. Basically dimming the +12v when the ground to the bulb is not present.
so it's the longer shaft version of the dimmer switch... great... I already order shorter one... I wished the guys making this videos would specify exactly the parts they use and where to get them before proceeding with the video...
Sorry, this video was made to support a dimmer install thread on a Grand Design Imagine Facebook group, not to sell dimmers or the adapter plate. Short shaft will work just without the nut. A little hot glue or silicone will hold it in place.
On my Imagine 2600RB, the light has 2 brown wires tied together plus 2 red wires, each running to a separate connector. Any suggestions on how to wire for the dimmer?
The two red usually are the source (esp if they go to different switches) and the brown go to the lights. On the PCA dimmer, the black goes to the lights (brown) and the red and white go to the +12v source (red).
Marty - Do you or others know if this mod will work on 2021 Reflection 5th wheel models? I've heard that the One Control system in these newer models interferes with modifying the lights. I am VERY hopeful that it will work as the overhead ceiling lights are way too bright.
It will not work as described on the newer One Control panels for anything the app controls without significant rewiring. The switching is done in a remote box and only uses the control panel switch for open/close signal. Sorry.
Where do you get the little plastic part with the hole in it? that seems to be the most import thing... You can get the switch off Amazon... but not that plastic part.
I need to get an optical sensor, but I think the PWM frequency of these dimmers might be a bit low. Just put one in (6 lights on the string) and am noticing some faint (almost imperceptible) flickering. Hoping it doesn't mess w/ our eyes. How has your experience been now that you've had them in for many months?
These are the fastest dimmers I have found so far. I dislike flickering but this flicker was acceptable for me. A true LED dimmable driver would be nice but would probably require new lights and rewire all the lights.
@@hybris1video it's a frequency of such that the dog's wagging tail strobes. We'll see how it works out the next couple days. You wouldn't happen to know how the internals work would you? I could easily set up a mosfet on an inexpensive microcontroller depending on how these work.
That happens to some. Believe it is the way the trailer was wired. May just happen on battery or shore power. Just back off slightly and the flicker will go away.
Great Video! I’ve ordered the dimmers and plan on doing the same thing on my 2017 Reflection. Are you still able and willing to sell the inserts? I’ve emailed you about a week ago and I’m just wondering if you’ve received it. Thanks!
I must be doing something wrong....I only see an option to “message” you from the “about” page. I thought that would email to you, but I guess not. That’s what I keep doing. :)
If you click on my profile and go to About, there is a message icon. I don't mean to be difficult but if I put my email on here, I will get lots of spam.
I'm pretty sure those switch plates are the same on my Winnebago since they also make Grand Designs. Do you use the long pole switches? May need 2 plate. Thank you!
Frank Bailey Yes, they’re probably the same. Switch cutout hole is about 3/4”x1/2”. The adapter uses the long stem version. www.amazon.com/dp/B01C4UBMY6/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_ep_dp_FJkgzbF8Y977N
Which dimmer model is that? I found something that looks like it on Amazon, but the wiring hookup is shown differently. Also, at least on mobile, there's nothing on your channel other than here to contact you. I'd also be interested in a few adapter plates. Looks like my rockers are the same size as yours.
hybris1video I understand completely. Oddly, I tried sending to that 3 times and keep getting failed (dumb phone maybe). Hang loose and I'll try other methods.
mso1776 They are even smaller than 16 AWG. I would guess 20 AWG. Red insulated male spade terminals seem to work fine. I just fold the dimmer wire in half to make it a little thicker.
Send me a message. Click my name, go to the about tab and then there is a little message icon to send me a message. You can also look me up on Grand Design Facebook page. Thanks.
I don't see a "message" tab under "about, and on Facebook there are many many groups called Grand Design or GD Imagine. I don't know how to find you. I really need one of those blanks to fit the following switch plate: pdxrvwholesale.com/products/single-white-switch-base-and-face-plate-with-white-on-off-switch (mine is black though) You can reach me @ facebook.com/shelly.cioppa Please and Thank you!
If you click on my profile and go to About, there is a message icon. I don't mean to be difficult but if I put my email on here, I will get lots of spam.
Hey Marty, It's been a while since you made this video. Do you still make the switch plates? I could not find your email address in the "about" section to send you an email. Thanks.
they make 2 types of these switches... short shaft and long shaft... which one did you use? C'mon now... if your going do an informational video... then give us all the information...
This is absolutely the best and easiest mod you can make to your camper! Ordered these adapters and they arrived in 3 days and with this excellent video, was done in less than 30 minutes! AND it looks like a factory install! Great item and great service!
@Blanche Roberge Amazon
Thanks Marty!! That is a great how to video!! Your 3D printed adapters are perfect too!!
I just did this last week, your video was very helpful. I have a Jayco trailer and the wiring was the same as yours. Very easy and no splicing into the wiring system of the trailer, which is what I liked.
This is great, just bought a Reflection fifth wheel last fall and noticed the LED strip was very bright at night.
Installed the dimmer and it works great. The adapter Marty made worked great. Thanks Marty!
Thank you all!! This little DYI project worked perfectly for our awning lights on our Grand Design Reflection 260RD Fifth Wheel. We hit a big road block with the installation on the ceiling lights because the panel switch in the Reflection model is a lighted switch with three terminals. We tried every possible wiring configuration without luck. If anyone has any suggestions, we'd appreciate the help.
Taking it to the next level, I purchased dimmers for the lights over the dining table, couch, bedroom and bathroom. I have light grey eyes and can't handle bright light. I tried three different options and all worked perfectly. The larger dimmer switch with the big dimmer slider was my favorite but required cutting a bigger hole with a dremel. But the least expensive model with the touch panel worked just as well.
Over all this is one of the best "Pimp My RV" projects you can do. Everyone will appreciate the ambience.
www.amazon.com/gp/product/B079TL2KQ4/ref=ppx_yo_dt_b_asin_title_o00_s00?ie=UTF8&psc=1
www.amazon.com/gp/product/B079TJTP1W/ref=ppx_yo_dt_b_asin_title_o00_s00?ie=UTF8&psc=1
www.amazon.com/gp/product/B081FC5BGH/ref=ppx_yo_dt_b_asin_title_o00_s01?ie=UTF8&psc=1
With the PCA brand dimmer, you just ignore the ground wire (usually white) that went to the original switch. The remaining two wires get wired as the video or included directions. I also have a not for the 3 wire lighted switch on my instructions.
@@hybris1videoThank you. I will check out those instructions again.
@@hybris1video I have the lighted switch, and am stuck. Which instructions are you referring?
@@twk1956 the instructions I include with the adapters. They just state to omit the 3rd white ground wire that goes to the lit switch. Wire per the instructions for + side led dimming.
I don’t know why I tried to follow the instructions on the box, this way is much easier
Where did you get the switch plates at
Hello! I'm working on this mod, but when I went to pull the switches off of the dimmers, the whole stem came with it. I was able to pull the stem out, but it seems to just pop back into the dimmer, and when I put it behind the plate and try to reattach the switch, it just spins around. I don't get an on or off "click". Any suggestions would be greatly appreciated!
What if your dimmer switch has 4 wire coming from it
The 4 wire dimmers are not recommended. You want to use the PCA brand because it supports “high side dimming”. Basically dimming the +12v when the ground to the bulb is not present.
hi Marty, where can I buy two of these printed inserts? your video was very helpful thank you!
so it's the longer shaft version of the dimmer switch... great... I already order shorter one... I wished the guys making this videos would specify exactly the parts they use and where to get them before proceeding with the video...
Sorry, this video was made to support a dimmer install thread on a Grand Design Imagine Facebook group, not to sell dimmers or the adapter plate. Short shaft will work just without the nut. A little hot glue or silicone will hold it in place.
On my Imagine 2600RB, the light has 2 brown wires tied together plus 2 red wires, each running to a separate connector. Any suggestions on how to wire for the dimmer?
The two red usually are the source (esp if they go to different switches) and the brown go to the lights. On the PCA dimmer, the black goes to the lights (brown) and the red and white go to the +12v source (red).
Where did you get that adapter plate with the hole for the dimmer?
Hi Dan. Did you get an answer regarding the adapter?
Marty - Do you or others know if this mod will work on 2021 Reflection 5th wheel models? I've heard that the One Control system in these newer models interferes with modifying the lights. I am VERY hopeful that it will work as the overhead ceiling lights are way too bright.
It will not work as described on the newer One Control panels for anything the app controls without significant rewiring. The switching is done in a remote box and only uses the control panel switch for open/close signal. Sorry.
Where do you get the little plastic part with the hole in it? that seems to be the most import thing... You can get the switch off Amazon... but not that plastic part.
Message me for the part
I need to get an optical sensor, but I think the PWM frequency of these dimmers might be a bit low. Just put one in (6 lights on the string) and am noticing some faint (almost imperceptible) flickering. Hoping it doesn't mess w/ our eyes.
How has your experience been now that you've had them in for many months?
These are the fastest dimmers I have found so far. I dislike flickering but this flicker was acceptable for me. A true LED dimmable driver would be nice but would probably require new lights and rewire all the lights.
@@hybris1video it's a frequency of such that the dog's wagging tail strobes. We'll see how it works out the next couple days. You wouldn't happen to know how the internals work would you? I could easily set up a mosfet on an inexpensive microcontroller depending on how these work.
Where do I get the adapters? Can find no information on these. Help please.
Please email me at scawaoh-adapterman@yahoo.com and I’ll send order info. Thanks.
Great Job Marty! Is the interior light switch wiring the same as the awning?
Yes, on my imagine it shared the same power source but obviously had it own lead to the lights.
Installed, but when I turn the dinner switch to high, the ceiling lights flicker?
That happens to some. Believe it is the way the trailer was wired. May just happen on battery or shore power. Just back off slightly and the flicker will go away.
Mine do this too on battery, haven’t tried shore power yet
Where did you get the blanks? I am looking everywhere and I cannot find them.
I make them. Email me at scawaoh-adapterman@yahoo.com for details.
Where do I find the parts list for this install? I dont see it on this feed
Email me for details. Thanks.
scawaoh-adapterman@yahoo.com
If I pay, will you make me a couple of them too? I have a 2016 Imagine 2800bh I would love to switch over to dimmer like you did.
Stoshey Send me an email for order details. Thanks.
Hello. I would like to do this for my Imagine 2800bh. How can I get the adapters?
Send me an email for info, thanks. scawaoh-adapterman@yahoo.com
wat type of tool is to get out the screws??
Robertson (square) bit. Most of the screws in the camper are these. I believe it is the medium size. It's good to keep on in the camper.
Great Video! I’ve ordered the dimmers and plan on doing the same thing on my 2017 Reflection. Are you still able and willing to sell the inserts? I’ve emailed you about a week ago and I’m just wondering if you’ve received it. Thanks!
Sorry, I missed your email. Yes I still make them. Please email me again and I’ll keep an eye out.
hybris1video great...thanks! I’ll send another email in the morning!
Just sent you a message from the “about” message link...let me know if it didn’t go though. Thanks!
Hmm, still not getting it. I get emails from others on CZcams. Not sure what the issue is.
I must be doing something wrong....I only see an option to “message” you from the “about” page. I thought that would email to you, but I guess not. That’s what I keep doing. :)
How can I get the adapter? I just ordered the dimmer switches. this is a great idea. Thank you.
Todd's Place send me an email.
scawaoh-adapterman@yahoo.com
I tried but it wont go thu
I got two emails from that address this weekend. I don't know what is wrong. Look for the contact me button on my youtube page. That should work too.
If you click on my profile and go to About, there is a message icon. I don't mean to be difficult but if I put my email on here, I will get lots of spam.
I'm pretty sure those switch plates are the same on my Winnebago since they also make Grand Designs. Do you use the long pole switches? May need 2 plate.
Thank you!
Frank Bailey
Yes, they’re probably the same. Switch cutout hole is about 3/4”x1/2”. The adapter uses the long stem version.
www.amazon.com/dp/B01C4UBMY6/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_ep_dp_FJkgzbF8Y977N
I'm ordering 2 of those dimmers from Amazon. Can I buy 2 switch plates from you? Thanks again.
LV RV send me an email. Thanks.
scawaoh-adapterman@yahoo.com
Yeah sorry Winnebago doesn't make Grand Design they may own them butt they dont build them! maybe same supplier for switch housing!
Marty, can I buy 2 of the printed inserts/ adaptors from you please? Thanks for the great video!
Please email me at scawaoh-adapterman@yahoo.com for details.
Which dimmer model is that? I found something that looks like it on Amazon, but the wiring hookup is shown differently.
Also, at least on mobile, there's nothing on your channel other than here to contact you. I'd also be interested in a few adapter plates. Looks like my rockers are the same size as yours.
Old Curmudgeon it is the PCA long shaft dimmer ELP1013 L. The adapter is about .5” x .75”. Email me for order instructions.
Old Curmudgeon there should be a contact me on my CZcams channel page. I’m afraid how much spam I would get if I put it here.
I created a disposable email address: scawaoh-adapterman@yahoo.com
hybris1video I understand completely.
Oddly, I tried sending to that 3 times and keep getting failed (dumb phone maybe). Hang loose and I'll try other methods.
Where did you get the adapter
for the dimmer to fit the panel?
mso1776 I designed and 3D printed them.
That's cool. I'll have to buy some from you. Are the male plugs 14 ga or 16 ga.?
mso1776 They are even smaller than 16 AWG. I would guess 20 AWG. Red insulated male spade terminals seem to work fine. I just fold the dimmer wire in half to make it a little thicker.
I would like to order one of your purchase your adapter. how do i place and order.
Send me a message. Click my name, go to the about tab and then there is a little message icon to send me a message. You can also look me up on Grand Design Facebook page. Thanks.
Hi Marty, just letting you know iI sent you an email, hoping to purchase 2 of your adapters, if you are still making them.
Great video. Thanks
How can I order adapters?
Email me for order instructions or search for adapters on the GD Imagine Facebook page.
I’d like to order these adapters, how do I do so?
I don't see a "message" tab under "about, and on Facebook there are many many groups called Grand Design or GD Imagine. I don't know how to find you. I really need one of those blanks to fit the following switch plate: pdxrvwholesale.com/products/single-white-switch-base-and-face-plate-with-white-on-off-switch (mine is black though)
You can reach me @ facebook.com/shelly.cioppa
Please and Thank you!
Where do I find your email?
wcftbl There is a button somewhere. I don’t see it on my phone. I’ll have to check on my pc.
If you click on my profile and go to About, there is a message icon. I don't mean to be difficult but if I put my email on here, I will get lots of spam.
Hey Marty, It's been a while since you made this video. Do you still make the switch plates? I could not find your email address in the "about" section to send you an email. Thanks.
Jared Walker yes, I still do. You can email me at scawaoh-adapterman@yahoo.com
Thanks,
Marty
they make 2 types of these switches... short shaft and long shaft... which one did you use? C'mon now... if your going do an informational video... then give us all the information...
Long shaft