I have a 2002 Beaver Contessa with the SMC/IDS automatic leveling system. The keypad was replaced in 2010 and now some of the switches and LEDs have started to malfunction. I have been able to level using jumpers on the back of the touchpad so far but a permanent solution is needed. I have found several options so far. I have an extended warranty and want to use its function as much as possible but they will not tell me which options they will support. I will have to get my repair shop to handle the claim and repair.
My options are:
1. Installed a new or used touchpad. There are some used ones out there and one new one is on eBay. The extended warranty company won’t support used or eBay but its up to the shop to stand behind either one.
2. Beaver Coach Sales has a replacement unit that will replace both the touchpad and the IDS controller making the system totally manual. That has a $952 plus tax, shipping and my shops installation labor.
3. There are some owners that have totally removed the hydraulic leveling system (or just left it alone) and installed an air leveling system that uses the 8 air ride bladders to level the coach.
There may be others I haven’t found yet. If you have done the system by Beaver Coach Sales please let me know your experience since that conversion. If you did the air leveling I would like to know the manufacturer of the components and what it cost to do the total install. Also would you do it again. If you have another solution please pass on the name of the company, the kit info and/or any other details you can offer to include the cost.
I have a few weeks before I will take the coach to Tony’s RV in Lexington, SC. They have done all my work in the past except for what I do myself.
Thanks.
Jerry McCarty
2002 Beaver Contessa Naples
40 foot, Cummins ISL370