How To Remove The TV In An RV

RVs are a house on wheels and like a house, they have TVs. In the instance your TV quits working or you are looking to upgrade the TV, you will need to know how to remove and replace the TV in your RV. This article will serve as a guide to help you replace your RV TV.

Removing and replacing the TV in an RV is not a difficult task if you have the correct tools. While not difficult, it may be a two-person job. To determine the tools needed, you will need to look at how your TV is mounted. RV TVs are typically mounted using two screws on either side of a cabinet. The screws used are usually either Philips drive or Robertson drive which requires a square bit. Tools needed for removal will be a screwdriver or Robertson bit, and a flashlight to see into the dark back of the cabinet. Once all of the screws are removed, disconnect and remove any wiring and cords. The TV should come right out.

Assemble everything you will need to remove the TV before you start. As previously mentioned, it would be best to have someone to help hold the TV while you remove screws.

How To Safely Remove The TV In An RV

RV TV mounts vary by manufacturer but the most common way TVs are installed in RVs is in a cabinet. The following steps will help you learn how to remove a TV from an RV cabinet.

Step 1: Look for a quick release bar- Some RV TV cabinets have a quick-release bar or chain that would be located towards the bottom of the cabinet. If you locate it, lift it and you’re done! If you aren’t lucky enough to have a cabinet equipped with a quick-release bar, read on to see your next steps.

Step 2: Locate the screws-  The screws may be hidden by wood, paneling, or plastic plugs. If there are plugs, they usually pop out. Screws are usually located on the corners and are normally mounted using four screws.

Step 3: If you can’t find the screws- If the screws are not easily visible, you may try wiggling the TV back and forth to help locate the placement of the screws. Wiggle points can give away the location.

Step 4: Get the right tools- Once the screws are located, determine what tools you will need. While Phillips drive and Robertson drive are common, it is possible to find any type of screw in there, especially if the RV has had other owners and they have done work to it. Even if you need to go out and purchase a new tool, it is important to use the correct tool to remove whatever type of screw was used. Failure to do so could result in stripped screws and more difficult work.

Step 5: Unscrew the old TV- Using the correct tools, begin to unscrew the screws from the old TV. Keep in mind the screws are about 8 inches long so you may be working for a while to get them out.

Step 6: Have a helper- While you are unscrewing the screws, it would be wise to have a helper to help hold the TV in place until you are finished working. Not having someone hold the TV could result in a dropped/broken TV.

Step 7: Disconnect the wires- Once the screws are out, slowly lower the TV out of the cabinet to view the cords behind it. Disconnect any cords attached to the TV. Cords connected may be the power source, cable, or DVD player.

Step 8: Dispose of the TV- Once the TV is safely removed, you are ready to sell, donate, or scrap the old TV and replace it with a new one.

Now that you know the proper steps to help you safely remove a TV from your RV, you are free to replace your broken TV or upgrade your old TV for a better traveling experience.

How To Install A New TV In An RV:

Whether your old TV was broken or you just wanted to upgrade an older model, after removing the TV, you are probably going to want to replace it with a new one. Keep reading to see how to install your new RV TV

Step 1: Decide how you want it- You may want to install a TV in the same cabinet from which you removed the old TV or you might want to set up a new mount. Decide which one you are going to do. If you are using the same cabinet, read on. If you are using a different mount, skip to step 5.

Step 2: Using the cabinet- If you are using the cabinet, just get a TV that is about the same size as the one removed. You can reuse the old mounting brackets or buy a new one if they are damaged or broken.

Step 3: Connect wires and slide in- Connect everything you disconnected from the old TV and slide the new TV in.

Step 4: Screw the new TV in place- It is recommended you use new screws to ensure a secure hold. As before, you may need a helper to hold the TV in place while you screw in the four screws.

Step 5: Use a wall mount- If you no longer want to use the cabinet and want a wall mount, make sure to choose a design that works for RVs. An extension mount should be screwed somewhere it can stay tight and secure while traveling into the wooden cabinet for example. It is highly inadvisable to screw things into an RVs walls. Follow installation directions for the wall mount.

Installing a new TV in your RV is not difficult work, it is just something that needs to be done right so you can have a safe ride and prevent causing damage to your RV.

My RV TV Is Not Working, What Could Be Wrong?

Now that you have a new TV installed, you’re ready to enjoy some rest and relaxation. But what if the TV is not working. Here are some troubleshooting tips for your RV TV if it is not working as it should.

Electricity- The most basic fix could be your RV is not getting electricity. Double-check to make sure your RV is plugged into the electrical pedestal. If it is, check your TVs power cord and make sure it is attached to the TV and firmly plugged in.

Signal- If you are using an antenna, ask your neighbors if they are experiencing the same problem. If they are not, continue troubleshooting.

Antenna- If you aren’t getting a signal, check the cable that is connected to the antenna to make sure it hasn’t come loose. If it has, simply tighten it. While there, check the cable for any damage.

External devices- If you are trying to use an external device such as a Roku or DVD player, make sure everything is securely connected. Check your TV and make sure it is on the correct input.

How To Dispose Of An Old TV

TVs are big and not easy to just get rid of. Here are a few things you can do with your old TV. If it is working, you can donate it to a local charity or sell it. Another option is to give it away or pass it down to a child. Working or not, you can also take it to a recycling facility.

Can You Keep Your TV On While Driving

In many states, it is illegal for an RV TV to be on if it’s within the driver’s view. In some RVs, the TV will not turn on if the engine is running. It is a safety measure and it is best for the driver to not be distracted while driving.

Wrap-Up

I hope you now have a good understanding of how to remove and install a TV in your RV. Once removed, make sure you responsibly dispose of your old TV. Happy travels!