Need help installing dimmer switch

[Pamanc]

We have a 2020 GD Reflection 230rl
I would like to install a dimmer switch to the LED light in the dinette slide out. I am attaching what I purchased as well as a photo of the existing wiring. Since the existing wires coming out wall are the same color (white and purple) we are perplexed. Can any of you electric wizards shed some light for us? Thanks!


2020 Grand Design Reflection 230RL
GMC Sierra HD 2500 Duramax

[orbiker]

One is 12v and one is not. A volt meter will tell you the answer.

[gbkims]

Since the existing wires coming out wall are the same color (white and purple) we are perplexed.

The switch may have +12V on one wire and the other wire going to the light to give it the +12V when the switch is in the On position.
The ground for the light may be in the wall or near the light.
Here's one post on adding a dimmer: https://www.mygrandrv.com/forum/show...l=1#post177562

[RickLight]

Inside the wall somewhere is another wire!

What you have is +12V source and the other goes to the light.

Your ground/negative is the one hidden in the wall. The white wire on the dimmer goes to that.

[nswinton]

I'm looking at making this change. Is there a way to remove the existing switch without damaging the paneling?

[RickLight]

Of course!

The cover of most wall switches pops off to reveal the screws holding everything to the wall. The dimmer usually needs a larger hole but has a larger cover.

[Pamanc]

Ok, we found the ground wire. We had the dimmer all installed, everything worked but had to cut a larger hole in the paneling. When we went to reconnect everything NOTHING worked. Does a red light appear in the fuse box if a fuse has blown to indicate which fuse?
I sure wish I went to electric school. Makes one feel so very incompetent. I have a medical background which doesn’t mean a darn thing with RV DIY projects!


2020 Grand Design Reflection 230RL
GMC Sierra HD 2500 Duramax

[RickLight]

Yes your fuse is blown. Either something isn't quite right in the assembly, or you cut into the wires making the bigger hole.

Good news is that fuses are cheap and that 12V doesn't kill people and rarely starts fires.

[Pamanc]

Thank you EVERYONE! We finally accomplished this modification but I’m not sure I’ll manage to get hubs to do another one[emoji6]
We also struggled with installing a shower hot water mixer and after nearly 2 days..... we have a mixer installed and a dimmer switch. I’m a happy camper!


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[Pamanc]

Yes your fuse is blown. Either something isn't quite right in the assembly, or you cut into the wires making the bigger hole.

Good news is that fuses are cheap and that 12V doesn't kill people and rarely starts fires.

I thought a wire got nicked but I suspect he initially wired it incorrectly.... it is all good now!


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