The altitude sensing option would be a definite must camping in the Rocky Mountains. Most of the time last September we were camped at that altitude or higher and usually needed heat in the morning. We seem to always end up out west just about every year.The engine coolant interface is an optional feature on the MCS 5. I am not sure if Advanced RV offers this an an option. The altitude sensing option I mentioned earlier is a black box plug in for around $275. The engine coolant loop could be more dollars in labor costs alone. Most class A's have this engine loop.
Why not just turn off the inverter pre start and leave it off for 5 minutes. After that the engine coolant is hot and the electric heat boost goes off.I knew it pulled a lot of amps since my ScanGage voltage drops about .5 volts when it is running. First time I thought I had an electrical problem until I figured out what the reason was. Did not know it was 1000 watts. Does anyone know if you can prevent it from operating by turning the temperature selector to zero? Do not want to run the electric heater and my 600 watt inverter at the same time. 600 watt inverter is powered by the Sprinter 12 volt system. Another way I should be able to prevent it from running might be using the Espar to heat the water before starting the engine. They should have provided an on/off switch so we can control its operation.
FYI - my 2001 Prius has the same feature. Great on cold mornings. But the heated front seats on my Sprinter Interstate are the best on cold mornings. :....
The electric cabin heater in the later NCV3's does not heat the engine coolant at all.
It simply comes on and warms the air coming from the Heat/AC vents into the cab. ....
You do so know about manually shifting. You write about it all the time.andiamo,
... Think the magazine writers and editors know anything about manually downshifting a Sprinter to get the best mileage and performance.....I sure don't!
Roger
Here's a January trip for you to get away from the cold & snow, and talk to the man himself...We should know more after January with an actual Class B Sprinter motorhome with fully loaded tanks on the road long range if the Neundorfers are driving from Ohio to Florida and back. I still haven't heard of any major Class B converter's plan for the 4 cylinder Sprinter other than Advanced RV.
http://www.advanced-rv.com/advanced-rv-founders-attending-florida-rv-supershow-2014/