American Coach

2009

Owner’s Manual
07/2007 American Coach Manual Printed in USA (Revised 12/2007)
© 2007 by Fleetwood Enterprises, Inc. All rights reserved. No part of this publication may be reproduced or
transmitted in any form or by any means, electronic or mechanical, including photocopying, recording, or by any
information storage or retrieval system without written permission from Fleetwood Enterprises, Inc.
IMPORTANT - PLEASE READ: Product information, photography and illustrations included in this manual were as
accurate as possible at the time of publication. Materials, design, and specifications are subject to change without
notice. Fleetwood has designed its recreational vehicles for a variety of customer uses. Each vehicle features optimal
seating, sleeping, storage, and fluid capacities. The user is responsible for selecting the proper combination of loads
(i.e. occupants, equipment, fluids, cargo, etc.) to ensure that the vehicle’s weight capacities are not exceeded.

Manufacturing subsidiaries of Fleetwood Enterprises, Inc. build the following motor homes and travel trailers:
American Allegiance • American Eagle • American Heritage • American Tradition • Bounder • Bounder Diesel •
Discovery • Excursion • Expedition • Fiesta • Gearbox • Icon • Jamboree • Mallard • Nitrous • Orbit • Pace Arrow •
Pegasus • Pioneer • Providence • Prowler • Pulse • Quantum • Redline • Regal • Revolution LE • Southwind • Terra •
Terry • Tioga • Wilderness
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 TABLE OF CONTENTS

INTRODUCTION . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .01-1 Draining the Holding Tanks . . . . . . . . . . . . .04-8

Inspect and Maintain . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .01-2 Electrical Systems . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .04-9
Planning and Preparation . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .01-2 Battery Charging . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .04-9
Owner’s Information Package . . . . . . . . . . . .01-2 Automatic Generator Start (AGS) . . . . . . .04-9
Chassis and Vehicle Identification . . . . . . . . .01-3 Trip / Navigation and House
Suspension Alignment and Tire Balance . . . .01-3 Monitoring System . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .04-9
After-Market Steering Aid Devices . . . . . . . .01-4 Reference Material . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .04-9
Warnings, Terms and Concepts for Navigation System . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .04-10
Safe Operation of Your Motor Home . . . .01-4 Navion R 5000 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .04-10
Event Data Recording Device Cameras (If Equipped) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .04-10
(If Equipped) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .01-6 Video Valet Switch (Heritage only) . . . . . . .04-10
Drivers License Requirements . . . . . . . . . . .01-6
ON THE ROAD . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .05-1
WARRANTY . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .02-1 Motor Home Loading . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .05-1
Coverage Provided . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .02-1 Responsibility for Proper Loading . . . . . .05-1
What is Not Covered by This Warranty . . . .02-1 Some Definitions First . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .05-1
Limitations . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .02-2 Towing a Vehicle or Trailer . . . . . . . . . . . .05-2
Your Rights Under State Law . . . . . . . . . . . .02-2 Towed Vehicle Wiring . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .05-4
Dealer’s Obligations . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .02-2 Trailer Hitch Connector Wiring . . . . . . . .05-4
Owner’s Obligations . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .02-2 Cargo Carrying Capacity Label . . . . . . . .05-5
Manufacturer’s Obligations . . . . . . . . . . . . . .02-2 Cargo Carrying Capacity and Load
Warranty Service . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .02-3 Distribution . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .05-6
Reporting Safety Defects . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .02-4 How to Weigh Your Loaded Motor Home . .05-6
IMPORTANT NOTICES . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .03-1 Dangers of Overloading . . . . . . . . . . . . . .05-9
Loading Tips . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .05-10
AMERICAN COACH INFORMATION . . . .04-1
Tires . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .05-10
Allegiance, Eagle, Tradition and Heritage
Information . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .04-1 Tire Inflation . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .05-10
Electrical Circuit Breaker Panels, Circuit Air Pressure . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .05-11
Fuse Panels and Battery Disconnect Underinflation . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .05-11
Switch Locations . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .04-1 Air Pressure Check . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .05-12
Allegiance Driver’s Controls . . . . . . . . . . . . .04-2 Tire Replacement . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .05-12
Instrument Panels . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .04-3 If You Get a Flat Tire . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .05-12
Eagle and Tradition Driver’s Controls . . . . .04-4 Changing a Flat Tire . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .05-12
Instrument Panels . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .04-5 Seats and Seat Belts . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .05-13
Shifter Selector (Side-Pod) . . . . . . . . . . . .04-5 Combination Lap and Shoulder Belts . . .05-13
Heritage Drivers Controls . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .04-5 Safety Belt Maintenance . . . . . . . . . . . . .05-13
Instrument Panels . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .04-6 Safety Restraints for Children . . . . . . . . .05-14
Shifter Selector (Side-Pod) . . . . . . . . . . . .04-7 Safety Belts for Children . . . . . . . . . . . . .05-14
Deep Snow and Mud Switch (If Equipped) . . .04-8 Child Seat Tethers (If Equipped) . . . . . . .05-14
Living with Your Motor Home . . . . . . . . . . .04-8 Air Bags (If Equipped) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .05-15
Plumbing System and Holding Tanks . . . . . .04-8 Driving and Vehicle Control . . . . . . . . . . . .05-15

00-1
Table of Contents

Using the Engine to Slow the Sleeper Sofa Conversion (If Equipped) . . .06-6
Motor Home . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .05-15 Free-Standing Furniture (If Equipped) . . .06-6
Maneuvering in Traffic . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .05-16 Folding Doors/Privacy Curtain
Exterior Side Camera System Dividers . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .06-6
(If Equipped) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .05-17 Interior Lighting . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .06-6
Body Undercoating . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .05-17 Overhead Vents . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .06-6
Fuel and Fuel Systems . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .05-17 Folding Chairs (If Equipped) . . . . . . . . . .06-7
Fuel Types and Driveability Issues . . . . .05-17 Monitor Panel . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .06-7
API Refueling Advisory . . . . . . . . . . . . . .05-18 Effects of Permanent Occupancy . . . . . . . . .06-7
Engine Fan . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .05-18 Condensation and How to Control It . . . .06-7
Exhaust System Heat . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .05-18 Install a Dehumidifier Appliance . . . . . . .06-9
Engine Temperature Gauges . . . . . . . . . . . .05-18 Dripping Ceiling Vents . . . . . . . . . . . . . .06-10
Carbon Monoxide Safety Precautions . . . . .05-18 Important Information . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .06-10
Carbon Monoxide Detector/Alarm . . . . .05-19 What the RV Owner Can Do . . . . . . . . . .06-10
Emergency Towing . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .05-19 Important Information . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .06-11
Windshield Wipers and Washers . . . . . . . . .05-20 Fire Safety . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .06-11
LIVING WITH YOUR MOTOR HOME . . .06-1 Fire Safety Precautions . . . . . . . . . . . . . .06-12
Leveling System (If Equipped) . . . . . . . . . . .06-1 Smoke Detector/Alarm . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .06-13
Power Entry Step (If Equipped) . . . . . . . . . .06-1 PLUMBING SYSTEMS
Manual Stepwell Cover (If Equipped) . . . . .06-1 AND HOLDING TANKS . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .07-1
Hydraulic Stepwell Cover (If Equipped) . . .06-1 Fresh Water System . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .07-1
Stepwell Cover Operation . . . . . . . . . . . . .06-2 External Fresh Water Hookup . . . . . . . . . .07-1
Entry and Screen Doors . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .06-2 Filling the On-Board Water Tank . . . . . . .07-1
Patio Awning (If Equipped) . . . . . . . . . . . . . .06-2 Draining the Fresh Water Tank . . . . . . . . .07-2
Windows . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .06-2 Water Pump . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .07-2
Emergency Exit Window(s) . . . . . . . . . . . .06-3 Water Pump Filter . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .07-2
Remote Mirror Control (If Equipped) . . . . . .06-3 Low Point Drains . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .07-2
Power Sun Visors . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .06-3 Troubleshooting the Fresh Water System . .07-2
Pull Shades (If Equipped) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .06-3 Leaks . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .07-3
Day/Night Shades (If Equipped) . . . . . . . .06-3 Sanitizing the Fresh Water System . . . . . . .07-3
Mini-Blinds (If Equipped) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .06-3 Exterior Shower (If Equipped) . . . . . . . . .07-3
Storage . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .06-4 Power Water Hose Reel (If Equipped) . . . .07-4
Exterior Compartments . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .06-4 Whole Coach Filter System
Interior Storage . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .06-4 (If Equipped) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .07-4
Slide-Out Rooms (If Equipped) . . . . . . . . . .06-4 Insta-Hot Drinking Water System
Interior and Furnishings . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .06-5 (If Equipped) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .07-4
Dinette Conversion (with Built-in Table) Waste Water System . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .07-4
(If Equipped) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .06-5 Toilet . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .07-4
Dinette Conversion (with Free-Standing Draining the Holding Tanks . . . . . . . . . . .07-5
Table) (If Equipped) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .06-5 Black Tank Flush System (If Equipped) . .07-6
Sofa Conversion (If Equipped) . . . . . . . . .06-5 San-T-Flush Operation (Using Sanitizing

00-2
 Table of Contents

Bottle from Kit) (If Equipped) . . . . . . . .07-6 Propane System Check . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .09-3
Holding Tank Care . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .07-7 Propane Leak Detector/Alarm . . . . . . . . . . . .09-3
Cold Weather Usage . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .07-8 Lighting Propane Appliances . . . . . . . . . . . .09-4
ELECTRICAL SYSTEMS . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .08-1 APPLIANCES . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .10-1
Batteries . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .08-1 Water Heater . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .10-1
Chassis 12-Volt Electrical System . . . . . . . . .08-1 Water Heater Bypass Valve . . . . . . . . . . . .10-1
Chassis Bulbs and Fuses . . . . . . . . . . . . . .08-1 Refrigerator . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .10-1
Fleetwood 12-Volt House and Automotive 2-Stage Forced Air Furnace . . . . . . . . . . . . . .10-1
System . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .08-1 Hydro-Hot Hydronic Heating System
Battery Disconnect (If Equipped) . . . . . . .08-2 (If Equipped) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .10-2
Battery Inspection and Care . . . . . . . . . . .08-2 Range . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .10-2
Battery Charging . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .08-2 Range Exhaust Hood . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .10-3
Solar Panel (If Equipped) . . . . . . . . . . . . .08-3 Air Conditioner with Heat Strip
Selecting a Replacement Battery . . . . . . . .08-3 (If Equipped) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .10-3
Auxiliary Start System (If Equipped) . . . . .08-3 VCR, Televisions, DVD Player
120-Volt System . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .08-4 (If Equipped) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .10-3
Power Inverter . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .08-4 LCD Television (If Equipped) . . . . . . . . . . . .10-3
Power Converter . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .08-4 Whole Coach Surge Protection
(If Equipped) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .10-4
Ground Fault Circuit Interrupter (GFCI) . .08-4
Power TV Antenna (If Equipped) . . . . . . . . .10-4
Generator (If Equipped) . . . . . . . . . . . . . .08-5
Satellite Dish Antenna (If Equipped) . . . . . .10-4
Generator Fuel Supply . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .08-5
Satellite Radio (If Equipped) . . . . . . . . . . . . .10-4
Propane Generator (If Equipped) . . . . . . .08-5
Telephone Jack . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .10-4
Generator Operations . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .08-5
Microwave Oven (If Equipped) . . . . . . . . . . .10-4
Generator Operating Safety Precautions . .08-6
Washer/Dryer-Ready Option . . . . . . . . . . . . .10-4
Generator Cooling System . . . . . . . . . . . .08-6
Miscellaneous Appliances . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .10-4
Generator Slide-Out (If Equipped) . . . . . .08-7
Generator Maintenance . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .08-7 MAINTENANCE . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .11-1
Automatic Generator Start Exterior . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .11-1
Control System (If Equipped) . . . . . . . .08-7 Stains . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .11-1
Main Features . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .08-7 Exterior Graphics Care . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .11-2
Power Cord Reel (If Equipped) . . . . . . . . .08-7 Vinyl Front End Mask (If Equipped) . . . . .11-2
Electrical Wiring Diagrams . . . . . . . . . . . . . .08-7 Windows, Doors, Vents and Locks . . . . . . .11-2
Motor Home Fuses and Circuit Breakers . . .08-7 Fiberglass Roof System . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .11-2
PROPANE SYSTEM . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .09-1 Cleaning . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .11-2
Propane Safety Precautions . . . . . . . . . . . . . .09-1 Care . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .11-2
System Components . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .09-2 Sealant Renewal . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .11-3
Hoses . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .09-2 Exterior Sealants . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .11-3
Propane Regulator . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .09-2 Door, Window, Roof Component
and Molding Resealing . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .11-3
Using Propane System at Low
Temperatures . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .09-2 Interior . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .11-3
Filling Propane Tanks . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .09-3 Fabrics . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .11-3

00-3
Table of Contents

Solid Surface Top Care (If Equipped) . . . .11-3 STORAGE . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .12-1

Laminate Top Care (If Equipped) . . . . . . .11-4 Storage Checklists . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .12-1
Walls and Ceiling Panels . . . . . . . . . . . . . .11-4 Short-Term Storage (Less than 60 days) . .12-1
Attaching Accessories to Your Long-Term Storage (Over 60 days) . . . . .12-2
Motor Home . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .11-4 Winterization . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .12-2
Plastic/Fiberglass Shower Stall . . . . . . . . .11-4 Water System Winterizing . . . . . . . . . . . . .12-3
Floors and Carpeting . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .11-4 Reactivating the Motor Home
Wood Floor (If Equipped) . . . . . . . . . . . . .11-4 After Storage . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .12-4
Tile Floor (If Equipped) . . . . . . . . . . . . . .11-5 GLOSSARY . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .13-1
Engine Access . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .11-5
Generator Filters . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .11-5
Acrylic Assist Handles (If Equipped) . . . . . .11-5
Windshield Wipers and Washers . . . . . . . . . .11-5
Maintenance Guideline . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .11-6

00-4
 INTRODUCTION

Welcome to the recreational vehicle life-style Your motor home has been designed to provide
and the growing family of motor home owners. you with years of carefree, pleasant traveling
We sincerely thank you for choosing a and vacationing. It conforms with, or exceeds,
Fleetwood motor home! applicable National Fire Protection Association
(NFPA), Canadian Standards Association (CSA)
✓ NOTE
This manual describes many features of your RV and
(units built for Canada only), Federal Motor
Vehicle Safety Standards (FMVSS), Environ-
includes some instructions for its safe use. This man- mental Protection Agency (EPA) and California
ual, including photographs and illustrations, is of a gen- Air Resources Board (CARB) regulations. The
eral nature only. Some equipment and features
described or shown in this manual may be optional or seal attached just outside the entry door indi-
because of the continuous program of product change cates compliance with NFPA or CSA standards.
conducted by Fleetwood, it is possible that recent prod-
uct changes may not be included. Like all equipment, your motor home will require
care and regular maintenance in order to deliver
maximum value and performance. The dealer will
✓ NOTE give you basic operating and maintenance instruc-
Throughout this manual the term “RV” represents a tions. However, supplement this by reading all
“Recreational Vehicle” as defined by the NFPA 1192. instructional material(s) furnished with the motor
This includes motor homes, fifth wheel trailers, travel
trailers, camping trailers, recreational park trailers, home in the Owner’s Information Package and
and truck campers. the motor home Chassis Operator’s/
Owner’s Guide/Manual. This information out-
lines important areas of operation and mainte-
! WARNING nance for you to follow for safe, trouble-free serv-
ice from your motor home. Study these materials
Failure to follow proper procedures or install proper carefully. A good working knowledge of your
equipment can result in property damage, injury
and/or death. motor home and how to care for it will help you
enjoy many miles and years of recreational living.

01-1
Introduction

If you have any questions regarding operation, PLANNING AND PREPARATION

maintenance, or service, please contact your
dealer immediately so he can assist you. Your Each year millions of Americans embark on
dealer’s Service or Sales Department will handle trips using some type of recreational vehicle.
any normal problems which might occur. Proper planning of your trip will ensure a pleas-
urable experience. A thorough knowledge of
Some equipment and features described or your RV is important if you are going to get the
shown in this manual may be optional or not most out of the convenience and safety items
available on some models. built into your motor home. Be as familiar with
it as you are with your personal car or truck. If
Because of the continuous program of product
you have trouble or have questions, please con-
improvement conducted by Fleetwood, it is pos-
sult your dealer.
sible that recent product changes may not be
included in this manual. Specifications may
change without notice. Product information, OWNER’S INFORMATION
illustrations and photography included in this PACKAGE
Owner’s Manual were as accurate as possible at
the time of publication, and are representative of This package contains valuable documents about
function and may or may not be specific in their your motor home and its equipment and systems.
depiction of actual equipment, fabrics, interior This Owner’s Manual and the Chassis
or exterior decor or design options as installed Operator’s Manual are in the package. Since this
on or in your recreational vehicle. manual does not cover every possible detail of
equipment and options installed on or in your
The instructions included in this manual are motor home, there are booklets and instructional
intended as a guide, and in no respect extend the material in the package that will help you safely
responsibilities of the manufacturing subsidiary, operate, maintain and troubleshoot those items.
parent company or affiliates beyond the standard Be sure you read all this information and
written warranty as presented in this manual. understand the safety and operating instructions
included in the package. Additionally, you must
Fleetwood has designed its recreational vehicles
follow all maintenance instructions to insure full
to provide a variety of uses for its customers.
warranty coverage. If you decide to sell or trade
Each vehicle features optimal seating, sleeping,
your motor home, be sure the new owner receives
storage and fluid capacities. The user is respon-
all the material in this package.
sible for selecting the proper combination of
loads to ensure that the recreational vehicle’s
capacities are not exceeded.
✓ NOTE
If your Owner’s Information Package does not con-
INSPECT AND MAINTAIN tain these items, even if you purchased your motor
home “used,” please call or write Fleetwood and
Follow a consistent schedule of inspection and request the desired or missing information.
American Coach Owner Relations
maintenance for your motor home. Your contin- 1420 West Patterson Street
uing safety and comfort depend on it. This man- Decatur, Indiana 46733
ual includes a section outlining maintenance 1-800-435-7345
intervals. If you follow the maintenance guide-
lines, you will minimize the possibility of fail-
ure of any important system or part of your
motor home.

01-2
 Introduction

CHASSIS AND VEHICLE SUSPENSION ALIGNMENT

IDENTIFICATION AND TIRE BALANCE
Several numbers are used to identify the vehicle The front suspension and steering system of this
and components used on the vehicle. vehicle was accurately aligned at the factory
before delivery to the dealership. However, after
The V.I.N. or Vehicle Identification Number is
you have fully loaded the vehicle according to
assigned by the chassis manufacturer and is the
your personal needs, have the alignment
number used for vehicle registration. The V.I.N.
checked and adjusted, if necessary. To help pre-
is found on the Federal Certification Tag attached
vent uneven tire wear, check the front-end align-
in the driver’s compartment. Refer to this infor-
ment periodically.
mation when ordering parts from the chassis
manufacturer or chassis dealer service center. Please note that front-end alignment after
retail delivery is the owner’s responsibility and
The F.I.N. or Fleetwood Identification Number
is not covered under the warranty.
is located on the tag just outside the main entry
door or on the outside left front side of the motor
home. Use this number when ordering parts
through your Fleetwood dealer.

(Example) (Example)

FEDERAL CERTIFICATION TAG

MOTOR HOMES
MFD BY:
OF INC.
DATE MFD:
PLAN APPROVAL NO.
INC VEH MFD BY:
F.I.N.
DATE OF VEH MFD:
MFD. ID. NO. MODEL
GVWR: KGS ( LBS) DATE OF MFR. MO: YR:
FRONT GAWR: KGS ( LBS)
WITH: RIMS Located on the exterior left front side
TIRES AT: KPA COLD SINGLE of the motor home.
( PSI)
INTERMEDIATE KGS ( LBS)
GAWR: WITH: RIMS F.I.N. (Fleetwood Identification No.)
TIRES AT: KPA COLD DUAL
( PSI)
GAWR REAR: KGS ( LBS)
WITH: RIMS
TIRES AT: KPA COLD SINGLE
( PSI)
GAWR COMBINED
INTERMEDIATE
AND REAR: KGS ( LBS)
This vehicle conforms to all applicable U.S. Federal Motor
Vehicle Safety Standards in effect on the date of manufacture
shown above:
V.I.N.
TYPE VEHICLE: MULTI-PURPOSE PASSENGER VEHICLE

The tires and wheels with sizes and ratings designated above
have been equipped with this vehicle by Fleetwood. Any
replacement tires installed must meet the same specifications
and minimum load requirements. W15-0016

Located in the driver’s compartment.

01-3
Introduction

Excessive or abnormal tire wear may indicate are taking any medication or drugs that may
worn or misaligned suspension or steering com- impair your sight, hearing, judgment or coor-
ponents, unbalanced or improperly inflated dination. Pull off the road and park in a safe
tire(s) or some other tire/suspension problem. area until you can drive safely.
Alignment can be affected by worn steering/sus- Vehicle Handling
pension parts or road hazards such as hitting a
Your motor home is longer, wider and
curb, pothole, railroad track, etc. Improper
alignment can cause tires to roll at an angle and higher than a typical car or truck you may
wear unevenly. It may also cause the vehicle to be accustomed to driving. Keep this in
“pull” to the right or left. mind as you become familiar with driving
your motor home. New motor home own-
Out-of-balance tires will not roll smoothly and ers should take special care to learn the
will cause annoying vibrations and uneven tread driving and handling characteristics of your
wear such as cupping or flat spots. If you see vehicle in safe and familiar surroundings.
uneven tire tread wear or if the vehicle ride The distribution of the weight of your
comfort decreases, the tires may need to be motor home is designed so it will handle
balanced. safely while being driven.
See the Chassis Operator’s/Owner’s Guide/ • When loading the motor home, balance
Manual for more information. the load front-to-rear and side-to-side.
• Load and secure heavier items lower in
AFTER-MARKET STEERING AID the storage areas than lighter items.
DEVICES If you fail to properly load your belongings and
supplies, you will defeat the load distribution
Fleetwood does not sanction or condone the
design of the motor home, possibly leading to
installation of any steering aid device that is not
handling problems and a vehicle crash.
approved by our chassis manufacturer’s. Any
add-on device of this type may void the chassis Vehicle Response
manufacturer’s warranty on the item or items
When you, the driver, accelerate, brake or
affected.
steer the motor home, it responds to these
inputs. If you are faced with an emergency
WARNINGS, TERMS AND while driving, the way you respond to the
CONCEPTS FOR SAFE emergency and the way the motor home
OPERATION OF YOUR MOTOR responds becomes more critical. If you
HOME load, alter or maintain your motor home
improperly, it will not respond as it did
Vehicle Crash when you first received it in an unloaded
Like any other vehicle you may drive, your condition. Improper loading, alteration,
maintenance and improper driver
motor home can be involved in a vehicle
responses to emergency conditions can
crash, including a rollover. The motor home
lead to handling problems and vehicle
will be damaged and you and others can be
crashes.
injured or killed. Drive defensively at all
times. DO NOT drive if you are tired, have Vehicle Towing
been drinking alcoholic beverages, are under
the influence of any controlled substance, or Your motor home can be equipped with a
hitch designed to allow you to tow vehicles

01-4
 Introduction

or other loads behind your motor home. towed unit on mountain roads will be very
The maximum amount of weight your different from what you experience on
motor home can pull or stop is determined level ground.
by the manufacturer of the chassis on • State laws in the United States and provin-
which your motor home is built. Check the cial laws in Canada vary concerning tow-
Chassis Operator’s/Owner’s Guide/ ing equipment requirements and limits.
Manual provided by the motor home chas- Check the laws in the areas where you
sis manufacturer for the limits on the anticipate traveling.
weight you can tow.
Alterations to Your Motor Home
✓ NOTE Many motor home owners like to add a
personal touch to their motor home. But
In most cases the GCWR of the chassis and the fin-
ished motor home are the same. In some cases, due there is a difference between changing how
to the equipped hitch receiver, the GCWR may be your motor home looks versus how it
reduced. Please refer to the Cargo Carrying Capacity
Tag posted in your motor home for the rated GCWR. handles or responds to driver inputs. If you
expect to make any type of alteration to
your motor home, consult a professional
If the Chassis Operator’s/Owner’s Guide/ who understands the correct way to do the
Manual equipped with your motor home alteration and how the alteration will
does not provide specific information on change or affect the stability, handling,
towing weight limits, it is strongly vehicle response, and overall performance
recommended that the towed vehicle or and safety of your motor home. An
trailer be equipped with a properly installed improper alteration that affects vehicle
and operating supplemental brake control handling or response can cause a vehicle
system that operates in combination with crash, and any improper alteration to the
the brakes on your motor home. electrical or Propane systems can cause a
• You may be able to increase the weight of fire and can endanger your motor home
any towed load by properly installing on the and its occupants. Fleetwood, your chassis
towed load a supplemental brake control and other manufacturers stand behind the
system that operates with your motor motor home as delivered – NOT as altered
home’s braking system. Even with addi- by someone else.
tional brakes, you cannot tow more than the
GTW or GCWR for the chassis under your Warning Devices
motor home. Again, check the Chassis Your motor home is equipped with warning
Operator’s/Owner’s Guide/Manual. devices. Check them before a trip for
• You CANNOT increase the towed weight proper operation. A disabled warning
limit by changing the size of your hitch. device cannot warn you or vehicle occu-
pants of a life-threatening danger. Keep
• Properly load what you tow to avoid a
them working and respond to them quickly.
vehicle crash.
Examples of These Devices Include:
• Do not attempt to tow something that is
too heavy for your chassis. • Carbon Monoxide Detector/Alarm
• When driving in mountainous areas, • Propane Detector/Alarm
look for and obey highway signs con- • Smoke Detector/Alarm
cerning grades and curves. Your driving • Seat Belt Warnings
experience when pulling and stopping a

01-5
Introduction

• Hazard Flashers The data stored in the electronic modules may

• Brake Warning be retrieved by authorized parties using special-
ized equipment, for vehicle diagnostic or acci-
• Engine Warning
dent investigation purposes.
Please refer to the chassis manufacturer owner’s
EVENT DATA RECORDING DEVICE guide and/or (if equipped) electronic device
(If Equipped)
manufacturers owner’s guide(s), for further
SPECIAL NOTICE: Vehicle Event Data details on event data recording capabilities.
Recording Capabilities. DRIVERS LICENSE
Motor homes equipped with driver/passenger REQUIREMENTS:
airbags, Navigational or Vehicle Avoidance Some states require either an endorsement or a
Systems and/or equipped with certain other different class of drivers license to operate or
electronic devices may be equipped with event tow a recreational vehicle. License classes are
data recording capabilities. often based on the size of the vehicle you wish
Your motor home is built on a vehicle chassis to drive or the weight of the trailer you wish to
supplied by an automotive manufacturer. For tow. Please refer to your home states vehicle
diagnostic and safety related reasons, this drivers license authority to determine if there is
chassis comes equipped with electronic modules such a requirement.
(devices).
.Certain electronic modules have the capability
to record information about the vehicle, driver,
and passenger such as engine performance,
braking performance, vehicle location, vehicle
speed, and occupant seat belt use, or other data.

01-6
 LIMITED ONE-YEAR WARRANTY
For Motor Homes Manufactured by Subsidiaries of Fleetwood
Enterprises, Inc., Sold in the United States and Canada

COVERAGE PROVIDED c. Alteration or modification of the motor

home;
Your new motor home, including the structure,
plumbing, heating and electrical systems, all d. Environmental conditions (salt, hail,
appliances and equipment installed by the man- chemicals in the atmosphere, etc.)
ufacturer, is warranted under normal use to be 3. Normal deterioration due to wear or expo-
free from manufacturing defects in material or sure, such as sealants, fading of exterior
workmanship. surfaces, fabrics, drapes, and carpet wear,
etc.
The warranty covers the first retail purchaser
and all transferees during the warranty period. 4. Motor homes on which the odometer read-
The warranty begins on the date of original ing has been altered.
retail delivery or the date the motor home is first 5. Normal maintenance and service items,
placed into service as a rental, commercial or such as light bulbs, fuses, sealants, lubri-
demonstrator unit (whichever occurs first) "Start cants, etc.
Date"and extends for the following periods: 6. Appearance imperfections, or damage to
1. For non-structural defects, one (1) year paint, graphics, exterior materials, or
from the Start Date or until the motor home upholstery that may have occurred prior to
reaches 15,000 total miles as determined delivery and are normally corrected during
by the mileage shown on the odometer, the delivery inspection process at the man-
whichever occurs first. ufacturing plant or at the dealership.
7. Transportation to and from dealer location.
2. For structural defects, three (3) years from
the Start Date or until the motor home 8. FLEETWOOD SHALL NOT BE LIABLE
reaches 50,000 total miles as determined FOR ANY (1) INCIDENTAL OR CONSE-
by the mileage shown on the odometer, QUENTIAL DAMAGES, INCLUDING
whichever occurs first. Structural defects BUT NOT LIMITED TO ANY CLAIMS
are defined only as the motor home’s roof FOR PROPERTY DAMAGE, LOSS OF
structure, sub-floor structure, and USE, LOSS OF VALUE, LOSS OF
Vacubond® walls. INCOME, LOSS OF TIME, INCONVE-
NIENCE, COMMERCIAL LOSS, BUS
FARES, VEHICLE RENTAL, INCIDEN-
TAL CHARGES SUCH AS TELEPHONE
WHAT IS NOT COVERED BY CALLS OR HOTEL BILLS, (2) ANY
THIS WARRANTY OTHER PROPERTY DAMAGE CAUSED
This warranty does not cover: OR ALLEGED TO BE CAUSED BY
1. The automotive chassis system (including MOLD, MILDEW, FUNGUS, DRY ROT
the chassis and drive train), tires and batter- OR ANY MICROBIAL MATTER, OR (3)
ies, all of which are covered by the sepa- LEGAL FEES OR EXPENSES.
rate warranties of the respective manufac-
turers of these components. Some states do not allow the exclusion or lim-
2. Defects caused by or related to: itation of incidental or consequential dam-
a. Abuse, misuse, negligence or accident; ages, so the above limitation or exclusion may
not apply to you.
b. Failure to comply with instructions con-
tained in the Owner’s Information
Package;

02-1
Warranty

LIMITATIONS dealer, giving sufficient information to resolve

the matter.
ANY IMPLIED WARRANTIES, INCLUDING,
BUT NOT LIMITED TO THE IMPLIED Written notice of defects must be given to the
WARRANTIES OF MERCHANTABILITY selling dealer or manufacturer within thirty (30)
AND FITNESS FOR A PARTICULAR days of discovery by owner but no later than ten
PURPOSE, ARE LIMITED IN DURATION TO (10) days after the expiration of the warranty
THE DURATION OF THIS WRITTEN period. The owner shall deliver the motor home
WARRANTY. to the dealer or an authorized Fleetwood dealer
location for warranty service. See “Warranty
Some states do not allow restrictions on how Service,” page 2-3, for additional details.
long an implied warranty lasts, so this limita-
To the extent allowed or not prohibited by appli-
tion may not apply to you.
cable law, the manufacturer requires that the
owner first provide it with direct written notifi-
The manufacturer is not responsible for any
cation of any alleged unrepaired defect, or any
undertaking, representation or warranty
other dissatisfaction experienced with the motor
made by any dealer or other person beyond
home so the manufacturer has the opportunity to
those expressly set forth in this warranty.
cure the problem or dissatisfaction itself. Giving
the manufacturer this direct notice and opportu-
YOUR RIGHTS UNDER STATE LAW
nity to cure enables the manufacturer to supple-
This warranty gives you specific legal rights, ment prior efforts by its authorized dealers so any
and you may also have other rights which ongoing problem or dissatisfaction can be
vary from state to state. resolved or addressed by the manufacturer. The
manufacturer’s written notice should be mailed to:
DEALER’S OBLIGATIONS American Coach Owner Relations
By agreement with the manufacturer, the dealer P.O. Box 1008
is obligated to maintain the motor home prior to Decatur, Indiana 46733
retail sale, to perform a detailed predelivery
inspection and to repair or replace any parts MANUFACTURER’S OBLIGATIONS
necessary to correct defects in material or work-
manship. Upon receipt of notice of a claim, where the
dealer was unable or unwilling to resolve the
problem, a Fleetwood Service Center will repair
OWNER’S OBLIGATIONS or replace any parts necessary to correct defects
The owner is responsible for normal mainte- in material or workmanship.
nance as described in the Owner’s Information
Package; ; however, minor adjustments (such as For motor homes manufactured by the following
adjustments to the interior or exterior doors, subsidiaries of Fleetwood Enterprises, Inc.:
cabinet latches, TV antenna control, etc.) will be Fleetwood Motor Homes of California, Inc.
performed by the dealer during the first 90 days Fleetwood Motor Homes of Indiana, Inc.
after delivery. Thereafter, such adjustments are Fleetwood Motor Homes of Pennsylvania, Inc.
the responsibility of the owner as normal main-
tenance unless required as a direct result of For Chassis Customer Assistance, contact:
repair or replacement of a defective part under
this warranty. Spartan Motor Chassis Customer Assistance:
1-800-543-4277
If a problem occurs which the owner believes is
covered by this warranty, the owner shall con-
tact the selling dealer, or other authorized

02-2
 Warranty

WARRANTY SERVICE Please include the brand name and serial

If you need warranty service or warranty number of your motor home. The serial
information, please see the booklets and other number is located on the identification tag
documents included in your Owner’s on your warranty card.
Information Package. If you have any questions 4. If you wish to call for assistance, please
about the warranty or what it does or does not use this toll-free telephone number:
cover, please contact Fleetwood Owner
Relations. American Coach Owner Relations
1-800-435-7345
As a part of the predelivery inspection
procedure, the dealer is responsible for road There may be times when your motor home will
testing the motor home, noting and correcting need repairs or parts while you are on the road.
any steering problems and setting correct tire If your motor home is repaired by a non-
pressures before delivery. authorized repair facility (non-Fleetwood
dealer), be sure to save receipts and especially
Fleetwood and its subsidiaries will not be any parts that are replaced. These parts will
responsible for front end alignment after this usually have to be returned to your dealer before
predelivery inspection has been performed. you can be reimbursed for their cost.
For warranty service, you should return your Always make a written list of the motor home
motor home to the selling dealer. If this is not problems or the specific work you want done. If
possible, you may contact any other authorized you’ve had work done that is not on your
Fleetwood motor home dealer. The service maintenance log, let the service advisor know.
department at any of the locations listed at the
back of this manual can help you find a dealer If you have a long list of service items that need
in your area. attention and you need your motor home very
soon, discuss the situation with the service
If, for some reason, a problem is not handled to advisor, listing the items in order of priority.
your satisfaction: This will help the service department manage its
1. Discuss any warranty-related problems time and will help get you going as quickly as
directly with the manager and/or owner of possible. If required work is not covered under
the dealership, giving them an opportunity the warranty, your dealer’s service department
to help the service department resolve the can help you with getting the correct service.
matter for you.
The materials in your Owner’s Information
2. If a problem arises that has not been
Package Package contain warranty information
resolved to your satisfaction by your local
and operating instructions on the various
dealer, contact Fleetwood Owner Relations.
appliances and components in your motor home.
The locations are listed in the back of this
If you do not have operating instructions for a
manual. Please contact the one nearest you.
particular appliance or component, contact your
3. We sincerely believe that your dealer and
dealer. Warranty registration cards for these
the factory representative will be able to
items should be filled out and mailed as soon as
solve any problem which might arise. If
possible after you take delivery of your motor
their combined efforts are not satisfactory,
home. When contacting any of the equipment
please send a letter describing the
manufacturers, always have the model and serial
circumstances to:
numbers available. Appliance identification
American Coach Owner Relations numbers will be found on tags or plates attached
1420 West Patterson Street to the appliance.
Decatur, Indiana 46733

02-3
Warranty

If you have a warranty or service concern about REPORTING SAFETY DEFECTS

the chassis portion of your motor home, you
may go directly to an authorized chassis dealer If you believe that your vehicle has a defect
for service. This may save you time and effort which could cause a crash, injury, or death, you
as the chassis warranty is administered by the should immediately inform the National
chassis manufacturer. Consult your area Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA)
directory for an authorized claims dealer. If you in addition to notifying American Coach Owner
are unsure if the issue is chassis related, please Relations at 1-800-435-7345.
contact your Fleetwood dealer.
If NHTSA receives similar complaints, it may
The motor home has been thoroughly inspected open an investigation, and if it finds that a safety
before shipment. Your dealer is responsible for defect exists in a group of vehicles, it may order
performing a complete predelivery inspection of a recall and remedy campaign.
the motor home as specified in the Ownercare To contact NHTSA, you may either call the
delivery checkout. toll-free Vehicle Safety Hotline at
1-888-327-4236 (TTY: 1-800-424-9153);
Please refer to the warranty in the front of this or go to http://www.safercar.gov or write to:
manual. It explains your rights and obligations,
as well as the rights and obligations of the dealer
Administrator
and manufacturer. Please read this section
National Highway
carefully. You will be better informed in case you
have a warranty-related problem, and your dealer Traffic Safety Administration
will be better able to get you on the road again. 1200 New Jersey Avenue, SE
Washington, DC 20590

You can also obtain other information about

motor vehicle safety from the Hotline.

02-4
 IMPORTANT NOTICES

Please pay close attention to these statements

while you read this Owner’s Manual.
In this manual, statements preceded by the fol-
lowing words are of special significance:

! WARNING
indicates a potentially hazardous situation which, if
not avoided, could result in death or serious injury.

! CAUTION
indicates a potentially hazardous situation which, if
not avoided, may result in minor or moderate
injury.

CAUTION
indicates a potentially hazardous situation
which, if not avoided, may result in damage to
the component or vehicle.

✓ NOTE
indicates points of particular interest for more
efficient and convenient operation.

03-1
This page intentionally blank.
 AMERICAN COACH INFORMATION
Allegiance, Eagle, Tradition and Heritage Information

ELECTRICAL CIRCUIT BREAKER PANELS, CIRCUIT FUSE PANELS AND

BATTERY DISCONNECT SWITCH LOCATIONS
American Eagle, Tradition and Heritage
• Chassis 12-Volt Fuse Front Panel ................................. In the entry step-well
• Chassis Fuse 12-Volt Fuse Rear Panel.......................... Next to 12-Volt Battery Disconnect Switch
• Chassis 12-Volt Battery Disconnect Switch.................. Rear engine access compartment or
entry stub wall (Allegiance Only)
• House 12-Volt Battery Disconnect Switch.................... In the battery compartment
• House 12-Volt Fuse Panel ............................................. In the basement in front of the batteries
• House 120-Volt Breaker Panel ...................................... Various Locations by model
H - Behind TV Cabinet
D - Under Desk
F - Corner Cabinet in hallway
All Other models - Hallway

! CAUTION ! WARNING
Before relamping, disconnect power source by remov- Do not install 12-volt fuses or 120-volt breakers with
ing fuse or placing circuit breaker and control switch in amperage ratings greater than that specified on the
OFF position. device or label. Doing so constitutes a fire hazard.
Halogen bulbs operate at extremely high temperatures
and pressures and will shatter if not handled correctly.
Always use a soft dry cloth or cotton gloves when han-
dling halogen bulbs.
Do not touch glass area with bare hands. If bulb is
touched with bare hands, wipe the bulb clean with rub-
bing alcohol.
Do not use near flammable or combustible materials
and/or objects which may be sensitive to fading or drying.
Use bulbs designed or specific by manufacturer as to
style, wattage and voltage.

04-1
American Allegiance Information

DRIVER’S CONTROLS

04-2
 American Allegiance Information

Instrument Panels 22 Power Sun Visor Switch - Passenger

1 Fog Light Switch 23 Engine Ignition Switch
2 Power Sun Visor Switch - Driver 24 Parking Brake Control Knob
2 Dimmer Switch 25 Chassis Indicator and Warning Light Information
Center
3 Head Light Switch
26 Utility Light Switch
4 Adjustable Pedals Switch
27 Dome Light
5 Tag Dump
28 Generator Start Switch
6 Air Dump Switch
29 Radio Switch
7 Exhaust Brake
30 Docking Light Switch
8 Auxiliary Start Switch
31 Climate Control Panel - Fan Speed/Flow
9 12V Power Supply Control/temprature Control
10 Front Brake Air Pressure Guage 32 Fan Switch - Driver
11 Engine Coolant Temprature Gauge 33 Fan Switch - Passenger
12 Engine Tachommeter 34 Blank
13 Engine Oil Pressure Guage 35 Generator Hour Meter
14 Transmission Temprature Guage 36 Leveling Jack Control Panel
15 Fuel Gauge 37 Transmission Shifter
16 Speedometer 38 Mirror Remote Controls w/Heat Switch
17 Engine Volt Meter
18 Rear Brake Air Pressure Gauge
19 Smart Steering Wheel
20 Back-up monitor/Radio/Satellite Radio

04-3
Eagle and Tradition Information

DRIVER’S CONTROLS

24

25
26
23
22
21
20
19

27
18
17

28
15 16

29
14
13
12
11

10
9
8
6 7

1
2
3
4
5

04-4
 Eagle and Tradition Information

16. Driver Power Sun Visor Switches

17. Blank
41 18. Docking Lights
40 19. Hood Light Switch
39 20. Dome Light Switch
38
37 21. Radio Switch
36
35
34
22. Blank
33 23. Generator Start Switch
32 42
24. Passenger Power Sun Visor Switch
31
25. Generator Hour Meter Gauge
30
26. ATI Temperature / Compass Gauge
27. Back-up Monitor / Radio / Satellite Radio
(Optional Tire Pressure / Navigation system)
28. Chassis Engine Ignition Switch
29. Parking Brake Control Knob

Shifter Selector (Side-Pod)

30. Leveling Jacks Control Pad w/Air Dump
31. Air Horn Switch
32. Automatic Traction Control
33. Tag Dump Switch
34. Engine Brake Selector Switch HI/MED/LOW
35. Engine Brake Switch ON/OFF
36. Transmission Shifter
37. Blank
Shifter Selector (Side-Pod)
38. Adjustable Pedals (Brake & Accelerator)
39. 12 Volt Outlet
Instrument Panels
40. Power Window/Mirror Controls
1. Auxiliary Start (Chassis & Generator Engine)
41. Coin Holder
2. Blank
42. Cup Holder
3. Dimmer Switch
4. Driving Lamp Switch
5. Head Lights Switch
6. Fuel / Water / Oil Gauge
7. Left Turn Signal Indicator
8. Speedometer
9. Right Turn Signal Indicator
10. Tachometer / Front & Rear Air Gauges
11. Heating/Air Conditioner Fan Speed Control
12. Heating/Air Conditioner Temperature Control
13. Vent Control
14. Defrost Fan Speed Control
15. Defrost Temperature Control

04-5
Heritage Information

DRIVER’S CONTROLS

17
18
19
20
11
21
8 12 22
6 10 13 23
7 9 14 15
24
16
25
26
27
28
29

5
11 13 12
4
3 30
2 31
1
32

34
33

Instrument Panels 20. Dome Light Switch

1. Auxiliary Switch 21. Radio Switch
2. Blank 22. Blank
3. Dimmer Switch 23. Generator Start Switch
4. Driver Lamp Switch 24. Passenger Power Sun Visor Switch
5. Head Light Switch 25. Driver Shade Switch
6. Fuel / Water / Oil Gauge 26. Passenger Shade Switch
7. Left Turn Signal 27. Door Shade Switch
8. Speedometer 28. Driver Front Shade Switch
9. Right Turn Signal 29. Blank
10. Tachometer / Front & Rear Air Pressure Gauge 30. Generator Hour Meter
11. Heating/Air Conditioning Fan Speed Control 31. ATI Temperature / Compass Gauge
12. Heating/Air Conditioning Temperature Control 32. Back-up Monitor / Radio / Satellite Radio /
Optional Tire Pressure / Navigation System
13. Vent Control
33. Chassis Engine Ignition Switch
14. Defrost Fan Speed Control
34. Parking Brake Control Knob
15. Defrost Temperature Control
16. Driver Power Sun Visor Switch
17. Blank
18. Docking Lights Switch
19. Hood Light Switch (Chassis and Generator
Engine Areas)

04-6
 Heritage Information

Shifter Selector (Side-Pod)

35. Spot Light Control
50
51 36. Driver Exit Switch
49
37. Driver Set Switch
48 38. Driver #2 Switch
47
46 39. Driver #1 Switch
45
44 40. Leveling jacks Control Panel w/Air Dump
43
42 41. Air Horn Switch
41 42. Automatic Traction Control Switch
40
43. Tag Axle Dump Switch
44. Engine Brake Selector Switch HI/LOW
39 45. Engine Brake Switch ON/OFF
38
37 46. Transmission Shifter
36
35 47. Blank
48. Blank
49. Power Window/Mirror Controls
50. Coin Holder
51. Cup Holder

Shifter Selector (Side-Pod)

04-7
Eagle, Tradition and Heritage Information

DEEP SNOW AND MUD SWITCH the wheels pointing straight ahead. Failure to
(IF EQUIPPED) wait until the leveling system is fully inflated
may result to damage to the fiberglass wheel
A deep snow and mud option switch is included well skirt or damage.
with ATC. This function increases available
traction on extra soft surfaces like snow, mud or
gravel, by slightly increasing the permissible PLUMBING SYSTEMS AND
wheel spin. HOLDING TANKS
Drivers use a deep snow and mud switch to DRAINING THE HOLDING TANKS
select this feature. When this function is in use, The holding tanks terminate in a valve arrange-
the ATC indicator lamp blinks continuously. ment that permits draining of each tank sepa-
Switch and lamp locations will vary, depending rately. The valves are called knife valves. A
on the vehicle make and model. blade closes the opening in the sewer drain
pipes. The blade is connected to a 12-Volt elec-
Listed below is how the Deep Snow and Mud tric motor. A button will activate the knife valve
feature works: for discharging the wastewater from the RV.
Function Function During self-containment use, the sewer line is
Driver System Active Not securely capped to prevent leakage of waste
Action Response Active material onto the ground or pavement. Do not
Press deep ATC lamp activate the knife valve when the protective cap
snow and blinks X is installed on the pipe. Always drain the tank
mud switch continuously into an acceptable sewer inlet or dump station.
Press ATC lamp Drain the holding tanks only when they are at
switch stops blinking X least 3/4 full. If necessary, fill the tanks with
again water to 3/4 full. This provides sufficient water
to allow complete flushing of waste material
NOTE: Turning off the ignition will also deac-
into the sewer line.
tivate the deep snow and mud feature.
Whenever possible, drain the holding tanks
LIVING WITH YOUR MOTOR HOME before traveling. Wastewater and sewage in the
When preparing to travel in your motor home, holding tanks reduces the carry capacity of the
you have 20 minutes to retract your slide outs motor home. See the Motor Home Loading
and raise your leveling jacks before the air chapter.
leveling system "times out". In the event you During extended or semi-permanent hook-ups to
exceed this period, you will be required to turn sewage systems, waste materials will build up in
the motor off with the ignition key, wait five the tank and cause serious plugging. If the tank
seconds with the key in the off position and valves are continuously open. In these cases,
restart your engine. Press the "Travel Mode" on keep the valve closed until the tanks are 3/4 full,
the leveling system key pad to ensure activation and then drain into the sewage system.
of the leveling system to "travel height". This
event should take less than five minutes. You The holding tank drain valve outlet is to be used
can verify the leveling system is at ride height with a removable termination fitting that locks
by observing the clearance between the tires and onto the outlet with a clockwise twist. Clamp
the wheel well skirts. There should be the sewer hose drain to this fitting. A protective
approximately two to three inches of vertical cap should remain in place when you are not
clearance between these two components with draining the tanks.
04-8
 Eagle, Tradition and Heritage Information

To drain the holding tanks: ELECTRICAL SYSTEMS

1. Attach the sewer hose to the holding tank
outlet. Insert the end of the hose into the Battery Charging
sewer or dump station inlet, pushing it Your motor home is equipped with AGM sealed
firmly far enough into the opening to be batteries. These batteries do not contain elec-
secure. In some cases, adapters may be trolyte (fluid). They are designed to be mainte-
necessary or required between the line and nance free with proper use
the inlet. Arrange the sewer hose so it
slopes evenly. Please refer to the Owner’s Manual for further
2. Drain the black water holding tank first. information regarding the Battery Charging
Push the dump switch up towards the word System.
“open” and watch for discharge down the Automatic Generator Start (AGS)
sewer hose. The valve will open in 1-2 sec-
The Automatic Generator Start (AGS) is part of
onds and an LED light will come on. Do
not hold the switch for more than 2 sec- the Magnum Inverter control panel (Heritage).
onds. The AGS panel is in the front overhead for the
3. Allow enough time for the tank to drain Eagle (std.), Tradition (std.), and Allegiance
completely. When the tanks is empty push (opt.).
the rocker switch to the “close” position.
Your Owner’s Information Package contains
Again the valve will open in 1-2 seconds.
detailed operating and maintenance instructions
The LED light will go out when the valve
concerning the system.
is completely closed. Run enough water
(up to five gallons or so) into the tank to
cover the bottom. This will aid the break TRIP / NAVIGATION AND HOUSE
up of solid wastes, and reduce “pyramid- MONITORING SYSTEM
ing” of waste material.
4. To drain the gray water tank, repeat the REFERENCE MATERIAL
steps above using the other knife valve.
This tank is drained last to aid in flushing XNAV9525 Installation Manual
the outlets and hose. The gray water knife & Quick Start Guide . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Dual
valve may be left open in a semi-permanent
hookup. Navion (TM) R5000 Operating
5. See the tank flush system instructions in Instructions. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Lectronix
the next section if your recreational vehicle Video Valet Video Source Management System
is so equipped. Installation & . . . . . . . . . . . . . Coretronics, Inc.
6. Remove out the sewer hose and cap the GVN 52 Garmin Owner's Manual . . . . Garmin
outlet.
7. Rinse out the sewer hose with fresh water Video Valet Video Source Management
and remove the sewer hose from the dump System Installation & . . . . . . . Coretronics, Inc.
station. User’s Manual, Model 200
8. Replace sewer or dump station covers. Mobile Monitor Operating Instructions . . Sony
TripTek Motor Coach Trip Computer
! CAUTION Operator’s Manual . . . . . . . . . . Coretronics, Inc

The sewer drain valve must be open when using the

black tank flush inlet.

04-9
Eagle, Tradition and Heritage Information

NAVIGATION SYSTEM active.

The coach is optionally equipped (Standard on • Automatically display road side camera
Heritage) with a Garman GVN 52 GPS on the monitor when left turn signal is
Navigation System that is integrated into the active.
standard Navion R5000. This system functions The displaying of the back-up camera image
as your “navigational aid”, providing turn-by- when reverse gear is selected will override all
turn visual and voice guidance to direct you to other screens including the door and road side
your selected destination. The navigation system camera images.
uses the Global Positioning System (GPS) satel-
lites, and a digital roadmap database to calculate When the reverse gear or the right or left turn
and display travel directions on the R5000 signals are no longer selected the monitor screen
Display screen. will return to the previous screen.

NAVION R5000
The Navion (TM) R5000 combines radio, ! CAUTION
CD/MP3 Player, rear-view camera system,and The rear view video monitor system provides a gen-
advanced engine, coach, and trip monitors into a eral view of the road and objects to the rear of the
single integrated system designed specifically motor home. Your perception of this view and the rela-
tionships of objects to the motor home and each other
for use in RVs. It also allows navigation, satel- will be different from that seen in a rear view mirror.
lite radio, and tire pressure monitoring as Light conditions and the adjustment of the screen
options (Standard on Heritage) accessible from controls will also affect your perception. Always use
one common interface. the side-mounted rear view mirrors with the video
monitor system.
Reference the R5000 Operating Instructions
(14950-A.0) for R5000 control, radio,
Navigation, and tire pressure operating instruc- VIDEO VALET SWITCH (Heritage
tions. only)
CAMERAS (If Equipped) There will be a “VIDEO VALET” rocker switch
for each monitor. For the front in-dash monitor
There are four cameras provided with the sys- the “VIDEO VALET” rocker switch will be on
tem. They are: back-up (rear), door side, road the gear select panel that is located on the left
side, and interior. The camera images are dis- hand side of the driver. If the coach has the
played on the coach dash monitor and on the optional bedroom monitor the “VIDEO
optional bedroom monitor. The cameras can be VALET” rocker switch for the bedroom monitor
manually selected by the Video Valet Switch will be located just below the monitor on the
and camera images can be displayed one at a side of the cabinet or on the wall adjacent to the
time. monitor.
The cameras are also automatically selected These rocker switches are used to select a
when the ignition is in the “ON” position. There source to be displayed on the monitor(s). The
are three camera functions that automatically rocker switch are two way momentary “ON”
occur based on external activity. The automatic switches, which means that when you push
camera functions are as follows: either side of the switch and release it, the
• Automatically display back-up camera switch will move back to the neutral position.
on the monitor when reverse gear is Pressing the top side of the switch will move
selected. you “up” through the images (one at a time) and
pressing the bottom side of the switch will move
• Automatically display door side camera
you “down” through the images (one at a time).
on the monitor when right turn signal is

04-10
 ON THE ROAD

State laws in the United States and provincial GTW (Gross Towed Weight)*
laws in Canada vary concerning operator is the maximum loaded weight of a trailer or
licensing requirements and vehicle dimen- towed vehicle this motor home with equipped
sional restrictions. Check the laws in the area hitch has been designated to tow. GTW can-
where you anticipate traveling. not be increased by changing the trailer hitch.
GAWR (Gross Axle Weight Rating)*
MOTOR HOME LOADING means the maximum permissible loaded
weight a specific axle is designed to carry.
Responsibility for Proper Loading
MTW (Maximum Tongue Weight)*
As the operator of this motor home, you are respon- is the maximum permissible downward
sible for its proper and safe loading. This section is force exerted on the hitch ball by the towed
intended to provide you with helpful information vehicle coupler.
concerning the loading of your motor home.
UVW (Unloaded Vehicle Weight)*
Your motor home chassis is designed to carry a means the weight of this motor home as
specifically rated maximum weight. This weight built at the factory with full fuel, engine oil
includes everything: the weight of the empty and coolants. The UVW does not include
motor home itself, all occupants and their cargo, fresh water, Propane, occupants, or
belongings, fuel, fresh water, waste water and dealer installed accessories.
anything else that may be in or attached to the
motor home. The specified weights must never CCC (Cargo Carrying Capacity)*
be exceeded. If you do exceed them, you will is equal to GVWR minus each of the fol-
change how your motor home handles and lowing: UVW, full fresh (potable) water
responds, possibly leading to a vehicle crash. weight (including water heater), full
Propane weight and SCWR.
Some Definitions First SCWR (Sleeping Capacity Weight
Before discussing loading and weighing, we need Rating)
to explain some common weight terms. We will is the manufacturer’s designated number of
use abbreviations and you should refer back to sleeping positions multiplied by 154
these terms if you do not understand what the pounds (70 kilograms).
abbreviation means. Hitch Rating
GVWR (Gross Vehicle Weight Rating)* means the maximum allowable weight of a
is the maximum permissible weight of this towed trailer or towed vehicle. The GCWR
fully loaded motor home. The GVWR is of the motor home must never be exceeded,
equal to or greater than the sum of the even if the towed trailer or towed vehicle
Unloaded Vehicle Weight plus the Cargo weight is less than the hitch rating.
Carrying Capacity. Designated Seating Capacity
GCWR (Gross Combined Weight Rating)* (Canadian units only)
means the value specified by the motor the number of sleeping positions desig-
home manufacturer as the maximum allow- nated equals the seating capacity.
able loaded weight of this motor home with *These ratings are shown on the Cargo
its towed trailer or towed vehicle. Towing Carrying Capacity label.
and braking capacities may be different.
Refer to Fleetwood and the chassis manu-
facturer’s manuals for complete information.

05-1
On The Road

weight factors listed below if you expect to tow

! WARNING something behind your motor home, either with
or without a dolly. The factors are:
The heaviest loaded motor home with all passengers, • GCWR - Gross Combined Weight Rating
goods, water, driver and towed vehicle must not • GTW - Gross Towed Weight
exceed any of the following:
1. The gross vehicle weight rating (GVWR). • MTW - Maximum Tongue Weight
2. The gross combination weight rating (GCWR). • GAWR - Gross Axle Weight Rating
3. The front/rear gross axle weight ratings (GAWRs).
4. The individual tire and wheel ratings. The ratings for the above factors are all
listed on the Cargo Carrying Capacity label
posted inside the motor home.
Towing a Vehicle or Trailer
• Tire Capacity
(“Towed Load or Towed Unit”)
The tire capacity is dependent upon the
✓ NOTE
Some states and provinces require brakes and safety
inflation pressure set at the load applied.
If you expect to tow with your motor home, there
are additional guidelines that you must follow:
chains when towing vehicles. Consult the proper
authorities in the states or provinces through which • Do not use a load equalizing hitch if your
you will be traveling. hitch head receiver rating is below 10,000
lbs. capacity. It could cause structural
When you use your motor home to tow, remem- damage to the motor home frame compo-
ber that you must stop the towed load with your nents.
motor home’s brakes. This is critical on hills • Do not exceed Maximum Tongue Weight
and in the mountains where you may encounter as listed on the carrying capacity label.
sharp curves and possibly irregular road surfaces. Heavier tongue weights can change your
Check your motor home Chassis Operator’s/ vehicle’s handling and response, can cause
Owner’s Guide/Manual for the maximum a vehicle to crash, and will restrict your
weight your motor home can pull and stop on coverage under the Ownercare Warranty.
both level and steep roads. • Do not tow anything weighing more than
the GTW listed on the Cargo Carrying
✓ NOTE Capacity label. Heavier towed loads can
exceed your chassis’ ability to pull and stop
In most cases the GCWR of the chassis and the fin- the load and cause a vehicle crash, damage
ished motor home are the same. In some cases, due the motor home structure or drive train, and
to the hitch receiver equipped, the GCWR may be restrict your coverage under the Fleetwood
reduced. Please refer to the Carrying Capacity Tag
posted in your motor home for the rated GCWR. or chassis manufacturer’s warranty.
Changing the trailer hitch will not increase
the tow capacity of the motor home.
If the Chassis Operator’s/Owner’s • Consult the Chassis Operator’s/Owner’s
Guide/Manual equipped with your motor home Guide/Manual, and U.S. state and
does not provide specific information on towing Canadian provincial laws for towing weight
weight limits, it is strongly recommended that limits and for guidelines for installing sup-
the towed vehicle or trailer be equipped with a plemental braking systems that operate with
properly installed and operating supplemental your motor home’s brakes.
brake control system that operates in combina- • Towing equipment to consider includes a
tion with the brakes on your motor home. weight distributing system, a sway control
The supplemental brakes will NOT allow you system, a brake controller, and a supple-
to tow more than the listed GCWR for your mental brake control system. The weight of
motor home. If you cannot stop, you will crash. your towed load in comparison to the tow-
You must not exceed the tire capacities or the ing capacity of your motor home should be
evaluated during this consultation.
05-2
 On The Road

Installation of tow equipment must be per- component that includes the hitch ball.
formed by a competent installer. Make sure Hitch head assemblies are available in both
the installation follow the tow equipment "Weight-Distributing" (load-equalizing) and
manufacturer's instructions. "Weight-Carrying" types. A weight-distributing
hitch uses spring bars attached to the trailer
! WARNING tongue A-frame assembly to transfer some of
the trailer tongue weight to both motor home
Do not exceed the rated load of the motor home, or
axles.
the rated load of any axle. Exceeding the GVWR, A weight-carrying hitch head assembly does not
GAWR, GTW or GCWR of your motor home can use spring bars. All of the tongue weight of the
cause handling problems, a vehicle crash, damage
your motor home and void your warranties.
trailer bears down on the hitch assembly which
loads the motor home rear axle. For this reason,
the maximum load you can tow with a weight
The way your motor home handles and responds carrying hitch head assembly is limited.
will be affected by the way the towed unit is In addition to weight-carrying and weight-dis-
loaded. If the tongue weight is too light in rela- tributing, your hitch may also have a dinghy
tions to the GTW, handling and response will towing rating. This rating will apply should you
change and your motor home will operate less tow a motor vehicle with all four wheels down.
safely. Careful load planning and safe experi-
The ratings associated with the particular hitch
mentation with different loading patterns in
receiver supplied with your motor home are
what you are towing can avoid this risk and
noted on the weight tag and on a label affixed to
make your driving and towing experience safer
the hitch receiver.
and more enjoyable.
It is important that the devices which attach to
Your motor home is equipped with some of the
the hitch receiver equipped with your motor
equipment required to tow a trailer, automobile
home are rated to equal or exceed the loads of
dolly, or other towed load.
your towed trailer, automobile dolly, or other
The equipment supplied with your motor home towed load.
is called the "hitch receiver". This component is
Typical hitch system components are shown in
attached to the motor home frame. The square
the following illustration.
tube opening "receives" any of a wide variety of
hitch head assemblies. The "hitch head" is the

Hitch Ball
Safety Chain
Receiver

Weight-Carrying Hitch
Head Assembly

Chain Loop
Chain Bracket Receiver Tube

Weight-Distributing Hitch
Head Assembly

Typical Hitch System Components

05-3
On The Road

The weight label on your hitch receiver provides standard hitch plug on your motor home.
the maximum trailer weight rating and the maxi-
mum tongue weight rating. It is important that For towed vehicles with this type of lighting you
these ratings not be exceeded. will need to replace your hitch plug. A replace-
ment hitch plug wiring harness is available
Consult with your dealer or towing through Fleetwood’s American Coach Service.
equipment/trailer supplier to determine the cor- This harness replaces your current hitch plug
rect type of hitch head assembly, hitch ball and and is easily installed in minutes.
other tow equipment you should use for towing
and leveling the load you intend to pull. TRAILER HITCH
If you intend to tow, take advantage of reading CONNECTOR WIRING
and studying literature that is available from
vehicle manufactures, the National Highway
Traffic Safety Administration, equipment manu-
facturers, trade associations, and
publications/books about how to tow.

! WARNING
Failure to understand and follow these guidelines as
presented in this section could result in damage to the
motor home frame or body, could cause unstable driv-
ing and handling characteristics, and will restrict your
warranty coverage.

TOWED VEHICLE WIRING

Your motor home is equipped with an electrical
connector, from here on referred to as a hitch
plug, which provides an electrical connection
for your towed vehicle. The hitch plug is located
at the rear of the motor home near the hitch
receiver. It is a 7 position connector wired as
follows:
Please note this connector provides separate
positions for the two turn signals and brake
lights. This is necessary for the towed vehicles
that have separate amber turn signals in addition
to the red brake lights.
Some towed vehicles will not have amber turn
signals separate from the brake lights. They will
instead use the same lamp to indicate braking as
well as turn signal. Towed vehicles with this
type of lighting will not be able to utilize the

05-4
 On The Road

CARGO CARRYING CAPACITY

PRODUCT ____________________________YEAR ____________MODEL__________________F.I.N. ___________________

pounds (kilograms)
FRONT GAWR ______________ ______________
REAR GAWR (Rear GAWR includes the Drive and Tag GAWR) ______________ ______________
GTW ______________ ______________
GCWR ______________ ______________

GVWR ______________ ______________

minus UVW ______________ ______________
minus fresh water weight of ______ gallons @ 8.3 lb / gal ______________ ______________
minus LP-Gas weight of ______ gallons @ 4.5 lb / gal ______________ ______________
minus SCWR of ______ persons @ 154 lb / person ______________ ______________
CCC for this Motor Home *

*Dealer installed equipment and towed vehicle tongue weight will reduce CCC. Consumer’s should request such
information from the dealer. All Weights and Capacities are approximate.

HITCH RATING MTW HITCH RATING

w/ weight carrying hitch _______
500 Ibs.lbs _______ lbs
5000 Ibs.
w/ weight distributing hitch _______
1000 Ibs.lbs _______ lbs
10000 Ibs.

GVWR (Gross Vehicle Weight Rating): is the maximum permissible weight of this motor home. The GVWR is equal to or greater
than the sum of the Unloaded Vehicle Weight plus the Cargo Carrying Capacity.

GCWR (Gross Combined Weight Rating): is the value specified by the motor home manufacturer as the maximum allowable
loaded weight of this motor home and any towed trailer or towed vehicle. Towing and braking capabilities may differ. Refer to
Fleetwood and chassis manufacture manual(s) for complete information.

GAWR (Gross Axle Weight Rating): is the maximum permissible loaded weight a specific axle is designed to carry.

GTW (Gross Towed Weight): is the maximum loaded weight of a trailer or car this motor home with equipped hitch has been
designed to tow. GTW cannot be increased by changing the receiver hitch.

MTW (Maximum Tongue Weight): is the maximum permissible downward force exerted on the hitch ball by the towed vehicle coupler.

UVW (Unloaded Vehicle Weight): is the weight of the motor home as built at the factory with full fuel, engine oil, and coolants.

CCC (Cargo Carrying Capacity): is equal to GVWR minus each of the following: UVW, full fresh (potable) water weight (including
the water heater), full LP-Gas weight and SCWR.

SCWR (Sleeping Capacity Weight Rating): is the manufacture’s designated number of sleeping positions multiplied by 154
pounds (70 kilograms).

HITCH RATING is the maximum weight capacity of the hitch receiver equipped with this vehicle. The GCWR of this motor home
must never be exceeded, even if the towed trailer or towed vehicle weight is less than the hitch rating.

WARNING: The Heaviest Loaded Motor Home With All Passengers, Goods, Water, Driver and Towed Load Must Not Exceed Any
of the Following:

1.) The front / rear gross axle weight ratings (GAWR’s)

2.) The gross vehicle weight rating (GVWR)
3.) The gross combined weight rating (GCWR)
4.) The individual tire and wheel ratings

Fleetwood has designed its recreational vehicles to provide a variety of uses for its customers. Each vehicle features optional
seating, sleeping, storage and fluid capacities. The user is responsible for selecting the proper combination of loads to ensure
that the recreational vehicle’s capacities are not exceeded.

WARNING: CONSULT MOTOR HOME AND CHASSIS MANUFACTURE’S OWNERS/OPERATOR MANUAL(S)

FOR WEIGHING INSTRUCTIONS AND TOWING GUIDELINES INCLUDING TOWED VEHICLE
AUXILIARY BRAKE REQUIREMENTS.

Example Cargo Carrying Capacity label

05-5
On The Road

Cargo Carrying Capacity If your motor home is improperly loaded, it may

and Load Distribution be unsafe to drive, uncomfortable to drive, or
both. Axle load is important and it is recom-
The amount of cargo weight you can place in mended that you should load your motor home
your motor home is the motor home’s GVWR so that the front axle is loaded to at least 80% of
minus its UVW, or maximum capacity minus the the front GAWR.
weight of your motor home as assembled by
Fleetwood, i.e., without dealer installed How to Weigh Your Loaded
accessories, water, Propane, cargo or occupants.
Motor Home

✓ NOTE
Cargo Carrying Capacities (CCC) of your motor home
Refer to your local telephone directory to find a
public weigh station. The following procedures
will help you determine whether your loaded
are specified on a label affixed to the inside of the
motor home. The label includes all factory installed
motor home (complete with cargo, fluids, passen-
options. If other equipment such as leveling jacks, gers, and driver) is within GAWR, GVWR, and
awnings, roof pods, etc., are installed after the motor GCWR limits. When you arrive at a weigh sta-
home leaves the factory the weight of these items
must be subtracted from the total of the passenger
tion, the attendant will guide you through the cor-
and cargo carrying capacities. rect positioning of the motor home on the scales.
Your RV must be weighed fully loaded, that is,
When the motor home is being designed, the with passengers, food, clothing, fuel, water,
number and size of storage compartments, the Propane, supplies, etc. Any towed vehicle
liquid tank capacities and number of belted seat- (car/pickup, boat or trailer) or item loaded on
ing positions are determined for value and brackets on the back of the RV, such as bikes or
convenience. If you fill all liquid tanks to capac- motor-cycles, should also be included in the
ity, fill all storage compartments and cupboards weighing.
to maximum volume and fill all available seating
positions with passengers, the motor home could The following steps are suggested and are illus-
be overloaded. (See Loading Tips). Be aware of trated on the following pages:
the weight of the items you store, where you 1. Pull onto the scale so that only the front
store the items in your motor home, and weigh axle is on the platform (with the end of the
your motor home after it is fully loaded. scale midway between the front and rear
axles), and record the scaled weight.
In addition to knowing the overall weight that 2. Pull forward until the full unit is on the
can be safely loaded in or attached to the motor scale, and record the scaled weight.
home, you must know how to distribute the
3. Pull forward so that only the rear axle is on
weight so that correct amounts of weight are dis-
the scale (again with the edge of the scale
tributed between the axles or front-to-rear and
midway between the front and rear axles),
also between the wheels or side-to-side. It is also
and record the scaled weight.
important to place heavier items in under-the-
floor storage or low in the motor home. If you If the RV has a rear tag axle, pull forward
make the motor home top heavy or much too so that only the tag axle remains on the
heavy on one side, the motor home can be over- scale, and record the scaled weight.
turned and crash in a curve, turn or in an emer- To determine individual wheel position weights,
gency steering maneuver. When the load is prop- it is necessary to repeat the first three steps, but
erly distributed, your motor home will handle this time, use only one side of the scale, as
and respond safely, and you as the driver can be shown on the following pages.
more confident and will be more comfortable.

05-6
 On The Road

To calculate the opposite side of the vehicle Your RV must remain as level as possible on the
wheel position weight, subtract this side’s scale (even though an axle or side is not physically
weights from the weights recorded in steps 1, 2 on the scale). Obviously, to obtain the side-to-side
and 3. If there is a towed vehicle, proceed to weights, there must be enough space on either side
step 4 to obtain the “towed vehicle only” of the scale to accommodate the RV being par-
weight. tially off the scale. You may desire to use wheel
4. If a boat, trailer or other vehicle is being ramps to get the required side-to-side leveling.
towed, it should be weighed and combined If there is a difference in the weights on one
with the towing vehicle’s GVW (Gross side of the vehicle as compared to weights on
Vehicle Weight) to ensure the total weight the other side, components (tires, wheels,
does not exceed the GCWR (Gross brakes, springs, etc.) on the heavier side could
Combined Weight Rating). be overloaded, even though the total axle load is
within the GAWR. It is important to redistribute
the load to avoid component failure, as well as
✓ NOTE
Even though the weight of the total axle may be within
to improve the handling characteristics of the
vehicle. With these actual weights, it is now
the axle’s rating, it may be overloaded on one side. possible to compare them against the GAWR,
This causes one wheel position to be overloaded, GVWR, and tire capacities. These actual
therefore, side-to-side weighing is required. weights are also what should be used to help
determine the proper air pressure for the tires.

WEIGHING YOUR MOTOR HOME

To Obtain Individual Axle and Gross Weights:

STEP 1 STEP 2

Scale Weight _____________ lbs. Scale Weight _____________ lbs.

(Step 1 = GAW) (Step 2 = GVW)
From CCC Label _____________ lbs. From CCC Label _____________ lbs.
GAWR GVWR

STEP 3 STEP 4

Scale Weight _____________ lbs. Scale Weight _____________ lbs.

(Step 3 = GAW) (Step 4)
From CCC Label _____________ lbs. From CCC Label _____________ lbs.
GAWR Vehicle Weight
(GCWR – GVW)

05-7
On The Road

WEIGHING YOUR MOTOR HOME

To Obtain Individual Wheel Positions Weights:

STEP 1S STEP 3S

One Side One Side

Scale Weight _____________ lbs. Scale Weight _____________ lbs.
(Step 1S) (Step 3S)
Calculate Other _____________ lbs. Calculate Other _____________ lbs.
Side Weight (Step 1 - 1S) Side Weight (Step 3 - 3S)

Tire Load (lbs.) _____________ lbs. Tire Load (lbs.) _____________ lbs.
(See Note*) (See Note*)
Inflation _____________ psi. Inflation _____________ psi.
(See Note*) (See Note*)

*NOTE: Refer to the tire load charts published by the tire manufacturer to determine the
proper inflation pressures recommended for single and dual axles equipped. Always inflate
each axle set to the tire with the higher of the side-to-side loads.

WEIGHING YOUR TANDEM AXLE MOTOR HOME

To Obtain Individual Axle and Gross Vehicle Weights:

STEP 1a STEP 1b STEP 1c

Scale Weight _____________ lbs. Scale Weight _____________ lbs. Scale Weight _____________ lbs.
(Step 1a = GAW) (Step 1b = GVW) (Step 1c)
From From
Owner's Manual _____________ lbs. Owner's Manual _____________ lbs.
GAWR GVWR

STEP 1d STEP 1e

(Calculated)

Scale Weight _____________ lbs. Scale Weight _____________ lbs.

(Step 1d = GAW) Drive Axle GAW = (1c –1d)
From From
Owner's Manual _____________ lbs. Owner's Manual _____________ lbs.
GAWR GAWR

If pulling a towed vehicle, see "Weighing Your Motor Home," Step 4.

05-8
 On The Road

WEIGHING YOUR TANDEM AXLE MOTOR HOME

To Obtain Individual Wheel Positions Weights:

STEP 2a STEP 2b

One Side One Side

Scale Weight _____________ lbs. Scale Weight _____________ lbs.
(Step 2a) (Step 2b)
Calculate Other _____________ lbs. Calculate Other _____________ lbs.
Side Weight (Step 1a - 2a) Side Weight (Step 1c -2b)

Tire Load (lbs.) _____________ lbs.

(See Note*)
Inflation _____________ psi.
(See Note*)

STEP 2c STEP 2d

(Calculated)

One Side One Side

Scale Weight _____________ lbs. Scale Weight _____________ lbs.
(Step 2c) Step 2d: Right Duals = (2b - 2c)
Calculate Other _____________ lbs. Calculate Other _____________ lbs.
Side Weight (Step 1d - 2c) Side Weight Left Duals (1e - 2d)

Tire Load (lbs.) _____________ lbs. Tire Load (lbs.) _____________ lbs.
(See Note*) (See Note*)
Inflation _____________ psi. Inflation _____________ psi.
(See Note*) (See Note*)

*NOTE: Refer to the tire load charts published by the tire manufacturer to determine the
proper inflation pressures recommended for single and dual axles equipped. Always inflate
each axle set to the tire with the higher of the side-to-side loads.

Dangers of Overloading that require certain motor homes and RVs to

utilize the Highway Patrol’s weight scales to
Do not overload your RV. In addition to possible check for overloaded axle weights. Citations can
problems with tires, wheels, and springs, there be issued to violators.
can be problems of brake failure, drivetrain fail-
ure, wheel bearing failure, etc. Moreover, an Since you may load your motor home differ-
overloaded RV uses more fuel, is harder to ently for different trips, loading and weight pat-
handle, and can lead to driver fatigue. If any terns will change. Periodically reweigh your
component should fail, it could result in vehicle motor home and log the weights in this chapter.
damage and/or loss of vehicle control. In addi- Refer to your log as you prepare to load for
tion to the above dangers, there are some states future trips.

05-9
On The Road

Loading Tips tire life determining factor. Motor home tires

• Do not load heavy items on the bumpers. normally have a life of 5-7 years, depending on
mileage. However, Fleetwood recommends peri-
• Make a loading diagram of your properly odic tire inspection by a reputable tire dealer
loaded motor home, and then weigh the regardless of tread depth.
properly loaded motor home. The loading
diagram, your loading log and the loaded
motor home weight will help you locate
where specific items are stored, and will
✓ NOTE
When parking your motor home for an extended time,
help speed the loading process. in storage or camping, you can extend tire life by
parking each tire on a piece of plywood approxi-
• Secure and brace items so they won’t mately 12 inches square.
move during travel. Generally, load heav-
ier items lower.
• Fresh water and waste water weigh over Tire Inflation
eight pounds per gallon. Carry only as For safety and maximum tire life, vehicle speeds
much water as needed for travel use or to must be proper, proper inflation pressure must
balance the load, and whenever practical, be maintained, and tread depth and wear must
empty the holding tanks before traveling. be monitored. Properly inflated and maintained
• Store emergency items in a readily accessi- tires also contribute to overall motor home sta-
ble location. As a minimum include a fire bility and safety. Refer to the tire section in your
extinguisher, tools, first aid kit, rain gear, Chassis Operator’s/Owner’s Guide/Manual or
flashlight, highway warning devices, an any tire manufacturer’s information that may be
electric cord with light, and sturdy gloves. provided in your Owners’ Information Package
for information on maintenance and tire care. If
! WARNING no information is provided please contact your
local tire manufacturer’s location for advice.
Modification of your vehicle by addition of racks not The maximum cold inflation pressures are stated
originally equipped by the manufacturer to carry addi-
tional equipment, vehicles or cargo will reduce your
on the tire sidewall. The recommended maxi-
warranty coverage and may cause personal injury or mum tire inflation pressure for this coach is
property damage. shown on the Federal Certification Tag located
on the sidewall near the driver’s seat. To maxi-
mize tire performance, consult with the tire
! WARNING manufacturer’s guidelines or Chassis
Operator’s/Owner’s Guide/Manual for recom-
Do not store or carry Propane containers, gasoline, or mended tire inflation pressure.
other flammable liquids inside your motor home.

TIRES ✓ NOTE
The tire pressures on your motor home were
Your motor home is equipped with wheels and adjusted at the factory to the tire pressures specified
tires selected to match the capacity specifications on the Federal certification tag.
of the chassis as designed by the chassis manufac- These pressures are specified at full gross vehicle
turer. Under normal circumstances and with weight and should be reset to match the weight of
proper tire and chassis maintenance, you should your motor home.
receive thousands of miles of trouble-free service. For maximum performance, tire manufacturers pro-
vide tire inflation pressure charts so you can match
Some motor homes accumulate relatively few the tire pressures to the loads on your motor home.
miles and therefore the tire age from the date of For additional tire pressure information, consult the
Chassis Operator’s/Owner’s Guide/Manual.
manufacture, not mileage, may become the main

05-10
 On The Road

Maintaining correct tire inflation pressure for

! WARNING each loaded wheel position on your vehicle is of
the utmost importance and must be a part of
For safety and maximum tire life, check and adjust tire regular vehicle maintenance.
pressure (including the spare, if equipped) at the
beginning of each trip and daily during the trip. Pay Federal law requires that the tire’s maximum
special attention to inside rear duals. Always check
pressure when tires are cold, and do not bleed air out load rating be molded into the sidewall of the
of warm tires. Follow the tire pressure instructions in tire. If you look on your tire’s sidewall you’ll
the Chassis Operator’s/Owner’s Guide/Manual or see the maximum load allowed for the size tire
the tire manufacturer’s tire pressure chart.
and load rating, and the minimum cold air infla-
tion pressure needed to carry that stated maxi-
✓ NOTE
Fleetwood recommends using a high quality tire pres-
mum load. Utilizing less air pressure means a
lesser load can be carried by the tire.
sure gauge for accurate, repeatable pressure readings. The amount of air pressure you need to use
depends on the weight of your fully-loaded vehicle.
✓ NOTE
Check the wheel lug nut tightness periodically. They
So, you cannot determine your correct air pressure
unless you know your vehicle’s actual weights.
could work loose during driving. Check the Chassis
Operator’s/Owner’s Guide/Manual for correct lug nut Underinflation
torque and torquing procedure, and schedule.
When an underinflated tire is run at normal high-
way speeds, it flexes too much and builds up
Air Pressure
heat. This heat damages the inner liner, casing
The most important factor in maximizing the and outer sidewall of the tire. If not remedied
life of your tires is maintaining proper inflation. quickly, the tire will be irreparably damaged.
Driving on a tire that does not have the correct
In extreme cases, the sidewall of the tire is
inflation pressure for the load of the vehicle is
destroyed, both from the excessive heat it endured
dangerous and may cause premature wear, tire
due to the weight of the vehicle pressing on the
damage, and/or loss of control of the vehicle.
tire casing without the cushioning load carrying
A tire that is underinflated will build up exces- effect of the correct air pressure, and the crush-
sive heat that may go beyond the prescribed lim- ing/cutting action of the wheel as it rolls on the
its of endurance of the rubber and the radial underinflated sidewall. According to guidelines
cords. This could result in sudden tire failure. A put out by the Rubber Manufacturers Association
tire that is underinflated could also cause poor (RMA), any tire that has been run at less than
vehicle handling, rapid and/or irregular tire 80% of recommended air pressure for the load it
wear, or an increase in rolling resistance which is carrying should be inspected for possible
results in a decrease in its fuel economy. damage.
Overinflation will reduce the tire’s footprint or When one tire in a dual configuration comes out
contact patch with the road, thus reducing the of service due to underinflation damage, the
traction, braking capacity, and handling of the other tire in the dual configuration should be
vehicle. A tire that is overinflated for the load inspected immediately. If the unserviceable tire
that it is carrying will also contribute to a harsh was underinflated, that means the serviceable
ride, uneven tire wear, and will be more suscep- tire was carrying more and more of the load for
tible to impact damage. that wheel position. Consequently, it too may
have suffered some casing damage due to over-
loading.

05-11
On The Road

Air Pressure Check If You Get a Flat Tire

You should check the air pressure every two In case of sudden tire failure:
weeks or at least once each month and before any
major trip. Your RV tires’ air pressure should be
checked every “drive” morning on long trips. On ✓ NOTE
The motor home will tend to “pull” toward the side with
short trips of a day or less driving each way, your the flat tire.
tires should be checked before you leave on your
trip and again before you start your trip home. • Apply the accelerator to maintain direc-
Check your tires when they are “cold” and have tional stability, then gradually release the
not been driven for more than one mile. The accelerator.
stated load capacity for a given cold inflation • Use moderate brake pedal pressure. Do
pressure is based on ambient outside tempera- not pump the brake. The vehicle is
ture. If you must check your tires when they are equipped with Anti-lock Brakes (ABS)
warm or hot, do allow for a slight increase in air which will help control braking.
pressure and make sure they are within a couple • Firmly hold the steering wheel while
of pounds of each other on the same axle. avoiding abrupt steering inputs and move
slowly to a safe place.
Frequently check tires. If a tire picks up a nail or
screw that creates a slow leak and causes some • Park on a firm level surface.
air pressure loss, you might eventually spot it • Turn off the ignition.
visually if it is a front tire. If it is an outside rear • Set the parking brake.
dual, you might also spot it with a visual inspec- • Turn on the hazard flasher system.
tion. However, if it is an inside rear dual, the
• Ensure your passengers are safely located
chances of spotting it without an air pressure
and children monitored.
check are very slim. If you begin driving without
finding it, very quickly (in most cases a few • Get professional roadside assistance.
miles) your outside rear tire next to the low air
pressure tire is going to heat up from carrying Changing a Flat Tire
double its load, which if left un-remedied will
Even with good tire maintenance and normal
eventually will cause both tires to fail.
driving, you may experience a flat tire. Summon
professional help through your auto club, travel
Tire Replacement service, or a local truck service facility. Your
Replacement tires must be the same size, type motor home is not equipped with a jack or other
and tread depth per axle, and have at least the lifting device. Do not attempt to lift the motor
same weight carrying capacity as the original home with a jack. Consult the Chassis
equipment. Tires supplied by various manufac- Operator’s/Owner’s Guide/ Manual for addi-
turers of the same size and rating may not have tional information on tire inflation and proper
the same weight carrying capacity and maxi- torque.
mum cold inflation pressures. Consult your tire
dealer. The original equipment wheels and tires
supplied on your motor home have weight car- ! WARNING
rying capacities to support Gross Axle Weight Wheels and tires equipped with your motor home are
Ratings (GAWR) as stated on the Federal extremely heavy and may weigh 100 pounds or more.
Certification Tag attached in the driver’s Do not attempt to remove the spare tire (if equipped)
unless you are capable of handling the weight.
compartment.

05-12
 On The Road

people will be injured in a collision. Each desig-

! WARNING nated seating position in your vehicle has a spe-
cific seat belt assembly which is made up of
To avoid personal injury and/or property damage if a one buckle and one tongue that are designed to
blowout or other tire damage occurs, obtain expert tire be used as a pair.
service help. Do not attempt to change the tire yourself.

SEATS AND SEAT BELTS Combination Lap and

Shoulder Belts
Seat belts help to restrain you and your pas-
sengers in case of a collision. In most states, While your vehicle is in motion, the combination
the law requires their use. lap and shoulder belt adjusts to your movement.

Seat belts provide the best restraint when: However, if you brake hard, corner hard or if your
vehicle receives an impact, the lap and shoulder
• the seat back is upright belt locks and prevents you from moving.
• the occupant is sitting upright (not
slouching)
• the lap belt is snug and low on the hips ! WARNING
• the shoulder belt is snug against the chest Use the shoulder belt on the outside shoulder only.
Never wear the shoulder belt under the arm. Never
• the knees are straight forward swing it around the neck over the inside shoulder.
Failure to follow these precautions could increase the
risk and/or severity of injury in an accident.
! WARNING
Make sure that you and your passengers, including To fasten the belt, pull the lap/shoulder belt
pregnant women, wear safety belts. Be sure that lap
belts fit snugly and as low as possible around the hips.
from the retractor so that the shoulder portion of
If safety belts are not used properly, the risk of you or the belt crosses your shoulder and chest. Insert
your passengers being injured in a collision greatly the belt tongue into the proper buckle until you
increases. hear a snap and feel it latch.(For more details on
seat belt usage, see Manufacturers Usage
For your safety, your vehicle has combination Manual).
lap and shoulder belts for the driver and front
seat passenger and lap belts without retractors in To tighten the lap portion of the belt, pull up on
all other designated seating positions. the shoulder belt until it fits you snugly. The lap
portion belt should rest as low on your hips as
Always drive and ride with your seatback possible.
upright and the lap belt snug and low across the
hips to reduce the risk of serious injury to the A longer lap and shoulder belt assembly is
abdomen or neck that could be caused by slid- available and is a direct replacement for the
ing under the safety belts in a collision. driver and front passenger positions. The longer
lap and shoulder belt is made and tested to the
Never let a passenger hold a child on his or her same standards as the original belt. This belt
lap while the vehicle is moving. The passenger assembly can be purchased and installed at any
cannot protect the child from injury in a colli- authorized Fleetwood motor home dealer.
sion. Refer to sections on Safety Restraints for
Children and Safety Belts for Children. Safety Belt Maintenance
Never use a single belt for more than one person Check your safety belt system periodically to
or across more than one seating position. This make sure that it works properly and isn’t dam-
greatly increases the risk that one or both of the aged. If the webbing shows any wear, nicks or

05-13
On The Road

cuts, have it examined by a qualified technician Children should always ride with the seatback in
to determine if replacement is necessary. Always the fully upright position. When the seatback is
have your safety belt system checked after a not fully upright, there is a greater risk that the
collision. child will slide under the safety belt and be seri-
ously injured in a collision.
SAFETY RESTRAINTS FOR
Use a safety seat that is recommended for the
CHILDREN
size and weight of the child. Seat backs should
In most states, you are required by law to use be upright for use with child safety seats. Any
safety restraints for children. If small children ride objects in close proximity which may come into
in your vehicle, you must put them in safety seats contact with the child in the event of an accident
that are made specially for children. Safety belts or sudden stop should be removed.
alone do not provide maximum protection for
these children. Check your local and state laws for
specific requirements. ! WARNING
Safety belts and seats can become hot in a vehi- Place child safety seats only in forward facing (locked)
seating positions equipped with a restraint system.
cle that has been closed up in sunny weather, and
could burn a child. Check seat covers and buck-
les before you place a child anywhere near them.
Children who are too large for child safety seats
! WARNING
should always wear safety belts. Carefully follow all of the manufacturer’s instructions
that come with the safety seat that you put in your vehi-
cle. Make sure that the shoulder belt (if provided at the
! WARNING seating position where the safety seat is being used)
does not cross or rest in front of the child’s face or neck.
If you do not install and use the safety seat properly, the
Never leave a child unattended in your vehicle. Always child may be injured in a sudden stop or collision.
remove the key from the ignition and take it with you.

Safety Belts for Children ! WARNING

If the shoulder belt cannot be properly positioned When using any infant or child restraint system, it is
so that it does not cross or rest in front of the important that you follow the instructions and warnings
child’s face or neck, move the child to one of the provided by the manufacturer concerning its installa-
tion and use. Failure to follow the restraint manufac-
seats with a lap belt only and use the lap belt. turer’s instructions could increase the risk or severity of
an injury in the event of a collision or sudden stop.
Lap belts and the lap portion of lap and shoulder
belts should always be worn snugly and below
the hips, touching the child’s thighs. Child Seat Tethers (If Equipped)
Children should use forward or rearward facing Some child seat manufacturers recommend the
seat positions, not seated facing sideways. use of a top anchorage (tether) strap in addition
to the lap belt. Since a top anchorage (tether)
strap can provide additional security to a child
! WARNING seat, we recommend using a tether whenever
one is required or available.
If safety belts are not properly worn and adjusted as
described, the risk of serious injury to the child in a Your motor home may be equipped with a child
collision will be much greater. seat top anchorage (tether) strap anchorage point
in the forward passenger seat location.
05-14
 On The Road

You can visually identify the anchorage hard-

ware by inspecting the lower rear of the passen-
ger or secondary seat. A small metal anchorage
! WARNING
loop will be present which will allow the tether An incorrectly anchored tether strap could lead to
seat failure and injury to the child. In a collision, the
strap hook to engage (see Illustration 1). seat could come loose and allow the child to crash
into the inside of the vehicle or other passengers, or
To use, with the seat in position, drape the tether even be thrown from the vehicle. Use only the speci-
strap over the seat back and down (see fied anchor positions to secure a child restraint requir-
Illustration 2). Attach the tether strap hook to ing top tether strap(s).
the tether anchorage point and tighten the strap
according to the child seat manufacturers AIR BAGS (If Equipped)
instructions. Make sure the strap is not twisted Air Bag Supplemental Restraint
and that the forward facing seat is always posi- System (SRS)
tioned upright and locked in the forward facing
If your RV is equipped with Air Bag Supple-
position when the motor home is in motion.
mental Restraint System (SRS), please refer to
your Chassis Operator’s/Owner’s Guide/
Manual for any instructions supplied by the
chassis manufacturer with respect to this system.

DRIVING AND VEHICLE CONTROL

Driving your motor home will be different from
driving your family car or truck. Your motor
home is large and heavy. You may have to adjust
or learn new driving techniques to safely operate
your motor home.
Downhill driving puts extra strain on many dri-
vetrain components of your motor home. The
brakes are easily overloaded and overheated
Illustration 1 when used for downhill slowing. Brake fade will
occur if the brakes overheat.
When driving down long grades, shift the trans-
mission to a lower gear at the top of the grade.
Rule of thumb: Use the same lowest gear going
down as it took to go up the hill. Crest the hill in
the lower gear. Monitor your speed.

Using the Engine to Slow

the Motor Home
To use the engine as a braking force, select the
next lower gear. Engine braking provides good
speed control for going down grades. When the
motor home is heavily loaded, towing or the
grade is steep, preselection of a lower gear prior
Illustration 2 to the grade may be desirable.

05-15
On The Road

Gear preselection means the selection of a lower Driving on winding or mountain roads is not
gear to match the driving conditions you encounter difficult if done with reasonable care. Observe
or expect to encounter. Preselection will give you proper vehicle speeds when ascending or
better control on slick or icy roads and on down- descending hills and always operate in the
grades. Downshifting to lower gears increases proper transmission range. Downshift on hills to
engine braking. The selection of a lower gear often avoid overheating or undue engine loads.
prevents cycling between a gear and the next Downshift when descending grades.
higher gear on a series of short up-and-down hills.
Engine compression and friction will help con-
trol vehicle speed, and relieve some of the strain
MANEUVERING IN TRAFFIC on the brakes. Shift the transmission to a lower
Be cautious when maneuvering to allow for the gear before starting down the grade.
length and width of the vehicle. Always allow Mountain driving or desert temperatures can put
room to corner and to change lanes. Your vehicle’s extreme demands on drive train components.
side view mirrors and rear view camera monitor Under extreme heat conditions you may need to
(if equipped) will help you keep aware of your turn off the vehicle air conditioner to improve
vehicle’s position and the position of other vehi- engine and transmission cooling.
cles and/or obstructions near your motor home.
You must monitor them constantly while you are Be aware of the extra height of your motor
driving. Become familiar with the operation of the home. Check for low hanging tree branches or
side mirrors and learn to use them to view objects other obstructions whenever you drive or park.
and the road beside and behind the motor home. Avoid low overhangs when pulling in for serv-
ice. Always check overhead clearances of over-
The rear view mirrors are controlled from a passes and bridges. This may be particularly
panel located on the driver’s left side instrument important if you drive with the overhead vents
panel. Mirrors should be adjusted prior to opera- open or if the motor home is equipped with a
tion of your vehicle in traffic. To adjust the mir- roof air conditioner, roof rack, CB or TV/
rors, select either LEFT or RIGHT mirror and radio/satellite antenna.
press the appropriate arrow. Activate the mirror
heaters (if equipped) by pressing the HEATER Before leaving on a trip, check your route.
position. Some tunnels prohibit motor homes with
Propane systems.
Remember that your motor home is heavier than
a car, making it less maneuverable and harder to When parking parallel to a curb, be sure to
stop. Also, because of its greater side surface allow for poles or obstructions as the front and
area, it is more easily affected by cross winds. rear portions of the motor home swing wider
Allow extra distances for passing and stopping. than an automobile. When parking on an
incline, turn the front wheels into the curb in the
direction of the roll to aid the parking brake.
✓ NOTE
Although your motor home is equipped with power
When parking, always shift the transmission to
“P” and set the parking brake.
steering, the front wheels may be difficult to turn
when at a dead stop. When maneuvering in some If you can’t avoid operating, parking or idling
close situations, give yourself some room to move
either forward or backward. The vehicle has to be in your vehicle off-road:
motion for the front wheels to be turned with ease. • Be aware that combustible materials could
catch fire from the vehicle’s hot exhaust
system.

05-16
 On The Road

• Avoid driving your vehicle through or over tions. The standard generator is designed to run
combustible materials such as leaves, grass, on the same fuel as the chassis engine, or on
vegetation or stubble high enough to touch, Propane. Consult the generator operating
catch or collect on its hot exhaust system. instructions for special cautions about mainte-
nance with different types of fuels.
• Parking or idling should be done only in
an area where there are no combustible
materials under the vehicle. ! WARNING
When removing the fuel fill cap, rotate it slowly only
! WARNING far enough to allow the pressure to release. After any
“hissing” sound stops, remove the cap completely.
Do not park or idle the motor home over combustible
materials such as tall grass or dried leaves.
Combustible materials may catch fire from the hot
Modern fuel systems may build up vapor pres-
exhaust gases, soot or sparks that could escape sure within the tank as the fuel warms during
through corrosion holes or cracks. This is particularly use or hot weather. Under certain conditions,
important if the exhaust system has not been properly sudden release of this pressure when removing
maintained.
the fuel cap can cause fuel to spray from the fill
opening, creating a fire hazard.

✓ NOTE
Be careful not to scratch the monitor or camera lenses
To protect the fuel system from excessive pres-
sure or vacuum, or from sudden release of pres-
when cleaning. Use only household glass cleaner and sure, replace lost or damaged fuel fill caps with
a soft cloth. Wipe gently and dry thoroughly. Also, do caps of the same design which are available
not spray glass cleaner directly on the monitor lens from your Fleetwood motor home dealer.
located inside your vehicle, because the cleaner could
leak inside the unit and cause damage. Clean up fuel spills immediately. Fuel spilled on
the motor home could damage the exterior fin-
EXTERIOR SIDE CAMERA SYSTEM ish, and is a serious fire hazard.
(If Equipped)
Refer to Owner’s Information Package for ✓ NOTE
Fuel for the generator is taken from the main fuel tank
operating instructions.
through a special feeder tube which is higher in the
tank than the feeder tube to the motor home engine.
BODY UNDERCOATING This arrangement prevents the generator from run-
ning the motor home fuel tank dry.
Certain chassis and underbody components of
your motor home have been coated with an under-
coating material. This material is intended to Fuel Types and Driveability Issues
assist in protecting these components from corro- Your motor home’s automotive fuel and emis-
sion or other effects of weather and road sions systems are sophisticated and engineered to
conditions. Please be aware that certain areas of meet Federal and State emissions standards. They
the motor home do not have undercoating applied, are sometimes sensitive to fuel types and blends,
in keeping with good engineering practice, and to particularly fuels blended for certain altitudes and
meet the requirements of chassis manufacturers. climates. Fuel suppliers provide customers with
the correct fuel for their location and seasonal
FUEL AND FUEL SYSTEMS conditions. Sometimes, though, fuel blended for
winter is supplied during summer months.
See the Chassis Operator’s/Owner’s
Guide/Manual in the Owner’s Information
Package for chassis engine fuel recommenda-
05-17
On The Road

API Refueling Advisory transmission and exhaust systems radiate heat.

The American Petroleum Institute (API) offers Heat shields are built into your motor home to
the following consumer advisory and safety protect wiring and other components from pos-
guidelines on vehicle refueling to help con- sible heat damage caused by the exhaust system.
sumers avoid potential problems with refueling Do not remove these shields, modify the exhaust
and static electricity. system, or add additional equipment, such as
wiring, plumbing, or other components, which
One of many possible causes of static electricity
may be effected by exhaust system heat.
build-up is reentering your vehicle during refu-
eling, particularly in cool or cold and dry cli- ENGINE TEMPERATURE GAUGES
mate conditions. This can cause a build-up of
static electricity similar to shuffling your feet on Engine temperature gauges typically have been
the carpet when the air in your home is dry. If calibrated to indicate a midrange reading as the
you return from your vehicle interior to remove “normal” operating temperature. As a motor
the filling nozzle without discharging the static home owner, be aware that the gauge is intended
build-up, in rare circumstances, a brief flash fire to provide a warning of any rapid change in
could occur at the filling point if the static dis- engine coolant temperature from the “normal”
charges and the resulting spark ignites fuel reading of the gauge rather than an absolute
vapors around the fill spout. temperature reading.
A simple precaution to help avoid this potential
problem is to stay near the vehicle’s fueling
CARBON MONOXIDE SAFETY
point. Do not get back into your vehicle during PRECAUTIONS
refueling – even when using the nozzle’s auto- Carbon monoxide is a colorless, tasteless, odorless
matic hold-open latch. If you must reenter your gas. It is a by-product of the burning of fossil fuels
vehicle, discharge the static electricity build-up (gasoline, Propane, diesel fuel, etc.). The chassis
when you get out by touching the outside metal
and generator engines, furnaces, water heater,
portion of your vehicle, away from the filling
Propane refrigerator and range in your motor
point, before attempting to remove the nozzle.
home produce it constantly while they are operat-
ing. CARBON MONOXIDE IS DEADLY. Please
ENGINE FAN
read and understand the following precautions to
When the engine is under load or requires maxi- protect yourself and others from the effects of car-
mum cooling, the engine fan turns faster. The bon monoxide poisoning.
fan may become noisy at high speed and when
Beware of the symptoms of exhaust gas (carbon
maximum cooling is required. High speed fan
monoxide) poisoning:
noise can sometimes be misinterpreted as trans-
Dizziness
mission slippage. This is not the case. This fan
noise indicates that the fan is doing what it is Vomiting
supposed to do. This noise is not a defect in the Nausea
fan or the transmission. Muscular twitching
Intense headache
EXHAUST SYSTEM HEAT Throbbing in temples
Weakness and sleepiness
Your motor home engine has been designed to Inability to think clearly
conform to Federal and State emission require-
ments. To meet these requirements, engine operat-
ing temperatures are high. As a result, the engine,

05-18
 On The Road

EMERGENCY TOWING
! WARNING The preferred emergency towing methods are
Do not under any circumstances operate any engine either an under reach wheel lift device or a flat bed
or the cooking stove or range while sleeping. You trailer. Most tow truck operators willing to tow
would not be able to monitor outsider conditions to
assure that engine exhaust does not enter the interior,
motor homes will be familiar with these devices.
and you would not be alert to exhaust odors or symp- Be prepared to give the tow truck operator at least
toms of carbon monoxide poisoning. the following information when you call:
Length and height of motor home
Chassis manufacturer
! WARNING Gross vehicle weight rating
Exhaust gases are deadly. Do not block the tailpipes,
or exhaust ports, or situate the vehicle in a place
where the exhaust gases have any possibility of accu-
mulating either outside, underneath, or inside your ! CAUTION
vehicle or any nearby vehicles. Outside air move-
ments can carry exhaust gases inside the vehicle Do not tow the motor home from the rear. Towing from
through windows or other openings remote from the the rear will cause serious overloading of the front
exhaust outlet. Operate the engine(s), carbon mon- tires and suspension, possibly resulting in tire or front
oxide-producing systems or components only when suspension failure. The rear frame extensions are not
safe dispersion of exhaust gases can be assured. designed to withstand the load imposed by lifting from
Monitor outside conditions to be sure that exhaust the rear.
continues to be dispersed safely.

If you or others experience any of these symp-

toms, get out into fresh air immediately. If
! WARNING
symptoms persist, seek medical attention. Shut DO NOT crawl under or place any part of your body
down the unit and do not operate it until it has under a vehicle that is being lifted. Stand clear of all
towing equipment and the vehicle being lifted.
been inspected and repaired.

Carbon Monoxide Detector/Alarm The vehicle must be towed from the front, either
on the rear wheels (if operational) or on a heavy
Your motor home is equipped with a carbon
duty dolly. Consult your Chassis Operator’s/
monoxide (CO) detector/alarm.
Owner’s Guide/Manual for any available
If the detector/alarm sounds, it is an indication instructions. Contact the chassis assistance cen-
that unacceptable levels of carbon monoxide gas ter prior to calling a tow company to receive tow
are present. This may occur in traffic concentra- instructions and possible assistance with coordi-
tions or in campgrounds where other vehicles as nating the tow.
well as your motor home are contributing to the
carbon monoxide level in the surrounding air.
Sounding of the detector/alarm does not indicate ! CAUTION
a faulty detector/alarm. The detector/alarm is
Remove the axle shafts or disconnect the drive line
doing its job of warning you of potentially high before towing the motor home.
concentrations of carbon monoxide.
Test the CO detector/alarm after the motor home To prepare your motor home for towing:
has been in storage, before each trip, and at least 1. The rear axle shafts or the drive line MUST
once a week during use. Please refer to the be removed before towing. See the Chassis
materials included in your Owner’s Information Operator’s/Owner’s Guide/Manual.
Package.
05-19
On The Road

2. Secure any loose or protruding parts of the Windshield Wipers & Washers
disabled vehicle, if any. Your motor home is equipped with windshield
3. Secure all heavy or loose items in the wipers. It is important to have the proper wind-
interior. shield washer solution to maintain your system
4. Turn off Propane appliances and the in good operating order.
Propane tank valve.
5. Do not allow any person to ride in the
towed vehicle. CAUTION
Spartan Motors Chassis Use only a windshield washer solution that is rated for
Customer Assistance: a minimum of -20 degrees F (-8 degrees C) to prevent
damage to the system from freezing up.
800-543-4277

! CAUTION
The air brake system and air suspension system may
require recharging with air before towing to release
the brakes and provide proper ride height. An air inlet
fitting is located in the front road side compartment or
under the front hood. Tow truck operators should be
equipped to re-charge these air systems.

05-20
 LIVING WITH YOUR MOTOR HOME

LEVELING SYSTEM (If Equipped)

Controls for the leveling system are located in the ! WARNING
driver’s compartment. A detailed operating and If door is quickly opened and closed without allowing
maintenance guide is included in your Owner’s the step to fully extend and lock in the “OUT” position,
Information Package. Read all instructions for the step will immediately retract and lock in the “UP”
position.
this system carefully before operating the system.
Refer to the power step Owner’s Manual in your
! WARNING Owner’s Information Package for details on
maintenance and lubrication.
The leveling system is designed as a leveling system
only. Do not use the system as a jack or with a jack.
Do not attempt to raise the tires off the ground. The Ignition Overdrive Step
system should be used to raise the recreational vehi- Switch Switch Position/
cle to the lowest level position possible. Position Position Action
OFF OFF Step extends and retracts
with the opening and closing
of the door.
POWER ENTRY STEP (If Equipped)
OFF ON Step stays in the extended
The power entry step is controlled by a magnetic position regardless of door
entry door position switch, the engine ignition open or closed position.
switch and by an override switch located near ON ON/OFF Step retracts when the door
is closed.
the entry door. Power for the entry step is sup-
plied by the chassis battery (or batteries). The
battery system must be connected (battery dis- MANUAL STEPWELL COVER
connect in the “ON” position) for the entry step (If Equipped)
to operate.
Your motor home maybe equipped with a man-
The entry step will typically extend and retract ual stepwell cover. The stepwell cover closes off
with the opening and closing of the entry door as the stepwell area when you are traveling. When
controlled by the entry door position switch the cover is extended, it provides a floor surface.
(function is automatic). Activating the override
switch will move the entry step to the extended
position, and it will stay there regardless of
whether the door is open or closed. Regardless ! WARNING
of the override switch position, activation of the Feet, legs, hands and other body parts could be
ignition key with the entry door closed will pinched or injured during stepwell cover operation.
retract the entry step. This helps to prevent inad- Keep clear of the stepwell cover during operation.
vertently driving off with the entry step
extended. The switches operate the entry step
according to the following table. HYDRAULIC STEPWELL COVER
(If Equipped)

! WARNING Your motor home may be equipped with a

hydraulic operated slide-out stepwell cover. The
Always look and be sure the step is extended before stepwell cover closes off the stepwell area when
entering or exiting the motor home. you are traveling. When the cover is extended, it
provides a floor surface.

06-1
Living With Your Motor Home

The screen door may be separated from the

! WARNING main entry door by depressing the catch or
releasing the magnet.
Do not operate the hydraulic stepwell cover while
anyone is positioned in the stepwell or standing on
the stepwell cover. A person standing on the cover or PATIO AWNING (If Equipped)
in the stepwell could lose their balance and fall if the
stepwell cover is operated. An operating and maintenance guide for your
awning is included in your Owner’s
Information Package. It contains complete
! WARNING instructions for opening and closing the awning,
as well as maintenance and care instructions.
Feet, legs, hands, and other body parts could be
pinched or injured during stepwell cover operation.
Keep clear of the stepwell cover during operation.
WINDOWS
Windows in your motor home are either slider
Stepwell Cover Operation or torque pane type. Open slider windows by
1. The stepwell cover control is located on the rotating the locking lever and sliding the win-
passenger side of the overhead cabinet. dow. Open and adjust torque windows by turn-
2. To extend the cover, move the control ing the knob or crank located at the bottom of
switch forward. the window frame.
3. To retract the cover, move the control On your ventilating windows, water is trapped
switch rearward. by the frame. During a heavy downpour or
4. The stepwell cover can be pushed in washing, water may be seen in the lower portion
manually to retract. To retract the cover of the frame. The sloping sill and weep slots
manually: allow the water to drain to the outside. These
weep slots must be kept open.
a. The hydraulic entry step cover can be
manually retracted. A force exceeding If water collects in the bottom channel and
50 lbs. will be required. overflows, check the weep slots for debris and
b. The entry step cover will drop down a obstructions and clean as necessary.
couple of inches during its initial retrac-
tion.
c. Continue to push on the entry step cover
✓ NOTE
Damage or failure resulting from misuse including the
until it is fully retracted. application of after-market window tinting is the
d. In the event the entry step cover fails to owner’s responsibility.
operate, seek professional assistance
from an authorized Fleetwood Dealer.
ENTRY AND SCREEN DOORS ✓ NOTE
Screens are not removable for cleaning. They may be
The main entry door uses a latching system sim- pushed out of their frames if the window must be used
for emergency exit. In this case, the screens will be
ilar to that used in automobiles. It has a second- destroyed and will probably have to be replaced.
ary latch as well as a primary latch. When clos-
ing the door, be sure to close it firmly to engage
the primary latch. This will ensure that the door
is fully closed. When traveling, always lock
the deadbolt.

06-2
 Living With Your Motor Home

Emergency Exit Window(s) The visors provide relief from glare and bright
sun. Do not position to block necessary viewing.
Emergency exit windows are identified by the
red handles and EXIT label. Storm windows
should never be installed over emergency exit PULL SHADES (If Equipped)
windows. To Lower shades:
Read and understand these instructions before Gently pull the shade down to the desired
you need to use them. The emergency exit win- height.
dow provides an escape route in case the motor To Raise shades:
home must be evacuated under emergency con- Gently pull the bottom of shade until the
ditions. To operate the emergency exit window, spring tension from the roller is felt, allow-
either: ing shade to raise to desired height.
• Pull the red handle and remove the screen, or;
• Lift the red latch to release the window. Day/Night Shades (If Equipped)
Slide it completely through the slot so the The day/night shades are dual-purpose window
window swings free. covering that provide privacy at night and light
control during the day.
When parked, be sure the exit window is not
blocked by trees or other obstacles. To Lower shades:
Using both hands, gently pull down on the
REMOTE MIRROR CONTROL lower bar to expose the sheer fabric for daytime
(If Equipped) light control. For use at night, pull on the upper
Your new motor home may be equipped with bar to unfold the privacy curtain.
the optional power mirror. The driver’s control
To Raise shades:
panel also contains controls for the exterior rear
view mirror adjustment and heater, if equipped. Using both hands, gently raise the upper bar
To adjust the mirrors, select either LEFT or allowing the sheer fabric to fold, then raise the
RIGHT mirror and press the appropriate arrow. lower bar allowing the privacy curtain to fold.
Activate the mirror heaters by pressing the
HEATER control. MINI-BLINDS (If Equipped)
In the event the power mirror option was not To Lower mini-blinds:
selected and added, manual adjustment of the Pull straight down on the cord slightly, and
mirrors is required to provide a view of the sides move it about 45 degrees to either the left
and rear of the motor home. Mirrors should be or right and lower the blind. Stop the blind
adjusted prior to operation of your vehicle in in mid-travel by moving it back to the
traffic. straight down position. Re-attach the
retainers when traveling.
POWER SUN VISORS To Raise mini-blinds:
Release bottom of blind from retainer. Pull
Your motor home may be equipped with
straight down on cord and release at desired
optional power sun visors. The driver’s control
height. It is not necessary to pull the cord to
panel contains controls for the up/down opera-
one side or the other to secure blind.
tion of the left, center and right (driver, mid and
passenger) sun visors.

06-3
Living With Your Motor Home

To Adjust the angle: watertight in all conditions. Carry any arti-

Turn the adjusting rod either direction. cles which could be damaged by water
inside the motor home.

! WARNING
Do not store flammable, volatile liquids or hazardous
chemicals inside the motor home or in outside stor-
To
unlock, age compartments. Toxic fumes from these liquids or
move
cord to chemicals may enter the interior of the motor home.
center
and
Shade release
tension.

To lock cord,
Interior Storage
simply release
grip.
The closets and cabinets have catches along one
edge of the door. Pull on the cabinet door handle
to open. Overhead doors have supports to hold
them open. These drawers have a catch along
the edge of the drawer. Pull the drawer handle
STORAGE to open. It is recommended that cabinet drawers
Exterior Compartments should not be loaded to exceed more than 15
Exterior storage compartments should accommo- lbs.
date most of your storage needs. All of the stor- Closets may be equipped with 12-volt lights that
age compartments, except the Propane tank turn ON when the closet door is opened. Be sure
compartment, can be locked. Fire prevention reg- the light goes OFF when the closet door is
ulations require that the Propane tank compart- closed—your battery will be discharged if it
ment be unlocked at all times. stays ON. If the light stays on when the door is
Please note: Your motor home could be over- closed, the door switch requires adjustment.
loaded or out of balance if not properly loaded. The same loading considerations apply to inte-
Refer to the Motor Home Loading section of the rior storage areas as to exterior. Consult the
On The Road chapter of this manual, and follow Motor Home Loading section in the On The
the loading and weighing instructions in that Road chapter.
section. When storing equipment and supplies:
• Always keep tools and equipment stored in SLIDE-OUT ROOMS (If Equipped)
areas where they will not shift while
traveling. Your new motor home may be equipped with an
• Whenever possible, place heavy articles in optional slide-out room. The slide-out room(s)
storage compartments which are low and in are designed to provide additional living space.
the best location for weight distribution. A detailed operating and maintenance guide is
Pack articles carefully in the storage included in your Owner’s Information Package.
compartments to minimize shifting. If nec- Read all instructions for these systems carefully
essary, use straps to prevent movement. before operating the slide-outs.
• Be sure liquid containers are capped and
cannot tip or spill. In some installations it may be necessary to
slide the driver’s seat to the full forward position
• Secure all glass containers and dishes
and place the seat back in the full upright posi-
before traveling.
tion prior to moving the slide-out room in or out
• Exterior storage compartments may not be
06-4
 Living With Your Motor Home

to prevent the room from striking or rubbing Dinette Conversion

against the seat back. (with Built-in Table) (If Equipped)
Always exercise caution when operating the To convert the dinette into a bed:
slide-out room.
1. Remove cushions.
• Always be certain that there is plenty of
clearance for your room to safely extend to 2. Lift table, reach underneath, unlatch and
the full outward position. fold the leg(s) up under the table top, or
remove the table leg(s) and if necessary,
• Remove any other potential obstructions to
store them between the seats.
room movement.
3. Raise front portion of table several inches
For operation of the slide-out room the follow- to disengage inserts from the wall supports.
ing is required:
4. Lower table top to the dinette frame to
• Park the RV and level it for stationary use complete the bed base.
• Ignition on
5. Slide seat and back cushion into place over
• Transmission in neutral the bed base.
• Parking brake engaged
The under-seat storage may be reached by
raising the cushion platform.
✓ NOTE
Under wet/snow weather conditions, after retracting Dinette Conversion
the slide-out rooms(s), it may be necessary to towel
off moisture from the end walls.
(with Free-Standing Table) (If Equipped)
To convert the dinette into a bed:
1. Lift table, reach underneath, fold up the
! CAUTION legs under the table top. Secure the legs.
2. Lower table top to the dinette frame to
Never attempt to move your motor home with the complete the bed base.
slide-out room(s) extended. Damage can occur to the
slide-out or motor home. 3. Slide the seat and back cushion into place
over the bed base.
The under-seat storage may be reached by
! CAUTION raising the cushion platform.

In case of a power failure, the slide-out room can be

retracted manually. Be sure to understand the opera-
tion section as explained in the slide-out systems
✓ NOTE
Lower the dinette table to the bed position before
Operations Manual in the Owner’s Information transporting the RV.
Package.

INTERIOR AND FURNISHINGS Sofa Conversion (If Equipped)

The materials used inside your motor home To convert a sofa bed into a bed:
have been selected for durability and comfort.
1. Remove sofa bolsters (if applicable).
With reasonable care, these materials will
stand up under years of recreational living. The 2. Lift front of sofa seat (above front kick panel)
Maintenance chapter in this manual outlines up and out. The back of the sofa will drop
care requirements for the various upholstery back and down as the seat is pulled outward.
fabrics, floor, cabinet, and wall finishes.
06-5
Living With Your Motor Home

To restore the sofa/lounge: Folding Doors/Privacy Curtain

1. Lift the front edge of the sofa seat up, and Dividers
push it back towards rear. The sofa back
The dividers allow you to separate areas in the
will come up.
motor home. They glide on nylon rollers. They
2. Push the sofa fully into position. are held closed by a catch. When the dividers are
open for traveling, be sure to attach the hold back
Sleeper Sofa Conversion latch to keep them from sliding back and forth.
(If Equipped)
To convert a sleeper sofa into a bed:
Interior Lighting
1. Remove sofa cushions. Both decorative and ‘utility’ style 12-volt light-
ing fixtures may be used in your motor home.
2. Lift front of sofa seat (above front kick
Utility style fixtures may be either single or
panel) up and out. While lifting the seat
dual. A slide switch selects either single or dual
out, the middle legs will automatically
brightness. For your convenience, some lights
unfold into a vertical position.
are operated from wall switches. Clean the
3. Pull upward on the center of the metal bar, lenses with soapy water.
and rotate it down slowly until the wood
bars rest on the floor.
To restore the sleeper sofa: ! CAUTION
1. Lift the front edge of the bedframe up and Some of the lighting fixtures may be equipped with
rotate it back. halogen bulbs. The bulbs and fixtures may get very
hot when they are on. Do not touch these lighting fix-
2. Lift the middle section of the bed up and tures when they are on. Allow them to cool before
push it back towards the rear until the bed attempting to replace a bulb or to clean. Replace all
light bulbs with the same type and wattage as origi-
is fully into position. nally installed or as indicated on the fixture.
3. Replace the cushions.
Overhead Vents
Free-Standing Furniture
Overhead vents may be located in the galley and
(If Equipped) bathroom areas for fresh air circulation and
Your motor home may be equipped with free- exhausting heat, odors and water vapor.
standing furniture. Fleetwood has designed Turn the crank in the center of the overhead vent
retention hardware which will secure any loose to open and adjust. Some vents may also be
furniture during travel. Always secure any furni- equipped with a 12-volt fan. A switch controls
ture or loose articles before moving the motor fan operation. Be sure to turn the fan OFF
home. Failure to do so could result in damage to before closing the vent. Some vents may be
your furniture and motor home, as well as result connected to a wall switch.
in personal injury or death in the event of an
accident or emergency maneuver. Close the overhead vents or lower them before
traveling to avoid damage from wind and low
! WARNING overhead clearances.
The vent may be cleaned from the top of the
Loose furniture must be secured before travel. Failure motor home. Use soapy water on the vent cover.
to do so may result in injury or death in the event of
an accident or emergency maneuver. The screens may be vacuumed or lightly brushed
to remove accumulation of leaves or other debris.
06-6
 Living With Your Motor Home

Lubricate the gears and mechanism yearly with EFFECTS OF PERMANENT

a light, water resistant grease. OCCUPANCY
Folding Chairs (If Equipped) Condensation and How to
Control It
In some models, folding chairs are provided for
your convenience. Store these chairs in an You need to understand how to properly manage
appropriate compartment when traveling to and control the humid conditions and condensa-
avoid personal injury or damage. tion that you may experience.
RVs are much smaller than a house, and are
! WARNING tightly built. This means that the interior air will
become saturated with moisture more quickly
Do not sit on folding chairs while the vehicle is in than in a typical house. The routine activities of
motion. Personal injury may result.
a few people can put a lot of water into the air.
In cold weather, this moisture may become visi-
MONITOR PANEL ble as condensation.
The monitor panel allows you to conveniently Condensation happens naturally. Just as mois-
check the approximate levels in the holding ture collects on the outside of a glass of cold
tanks and Propane tank. water during humid weather, moisture can con-
dense on the inside surfaces of your RV during
Electronic sensor strips are installed on the cold weather when the humidity of the interior
tanks measure the levels at various points in the air is high.
tanks.
Water vapor will condense on the inside of the
To check tank levels: windows and walls. In really cold weather, frost
Press PROPANE, FRESH WATER, GRAY or ice may appear. It may also condense out of
or BLACK TANK switches. sight within the walls or the ceiling. If enough
The E or empty indicator light will always water collects in the wall or ceiling materials, it
be lit when the rocker or touch switches are may cause water stains on the wall or ceiling sur-
depressed. If the tank is full, all lights will face. You might think that your walls or ceiling
be on. Lights are sequential, and indicate are leaking. You have a problem with condensa-
levels in approximately 1/3 or 1/4-tank tion if you see these signs. You need to do some-
increments depending on monitor or panel thing to reduce the moisture inside your RV.
design. It the tank selected is approxi-
mately 1/2-full, for example, lights E, 1/4
and 1/2 will be on.
✓ NOTE
Your RV is not designed to be used as permanent
Erroneous tank level indications can be housing. Use of this product for long term or permanent
occupancy may lead to premature deterioration of
caused by faulty sensor. structure, interior finishes, fabrics, carpeting and
drapes. Damage or deterioration due to long term

! WARNING
occupancy may not be considered normal, and may
under the terms of the warranty constitute misuse,
abuse, or neglect, and may therefore reduce your war-
The systems in this coach are not designed to be ranty protection.
used for any life-support applications. In the unlikely
event a system in this coach should malfunction, or
fail to operate, it is possible any connected appli-
ances, including life support equipment, may also fail,
resulting in potential medical complications.

06-7
Living With Your Motor Home

Here are some frequently asked questions about pounds per hour. So in a 24-hour period,
condensation and some answers that will help an uncontrolled humidifier can put almost
you understand more about your RV and how to 50 pounds of water into the air.
keep it comfortable. House plants and aquariums – Plants give
off almost as much water as you put on
Q. – In cold weather, my windows and walls them. Open aquariums permit higher rates
look like they’re sweating. Is that con- of evaporation than closed types.
densation?
People and animals – A large source of
A. – Yes. Your windows are a good way to water in the RV is the inhabitants them-
know if the humidity in your RV is too selves. A family of four can put up to 12
high. All air contains water vapor. When pounds of water into the air per day
air is warm it can hold much more water through breathing and perspiration.
vapor than when it is cold. When the air As you can see, just the normal course of living
cools, the water vapor “condenses” back to adds a great deal of water to the air.
a liquid. Since your windows are usually
cooler than the air, the water collects on Q. – What will all this water do to my RV?
the surface of the glass.
A. – The least it will do is fog your windows. If
Q. – Where does all the water come from? it is really cold outside, frost or even clear
ice could form on the inside of the glass.
A. – Moisture in the air comes from many
sources. Some of the most common are: Excessive moisture in the air could show
up as water running down or dripping off
Cooking – Meals prepared for a family of walls, ceilings or fixtures. It may look like
four can add up to a gallon of water per your roof or windows are leaking. This
day into the air from cooking. water may stain woodwork, carpeting,
Bathing – An average shower can put ceiling panels or even furniture.
between 1⁄4 - 1⁄ 2 pounds of water into the air.
But the most damage is caused by water
Dishwashing – Doing the dishes for a typ- you can’t even see. Water will penetrate
ical day’s meals can add up to one pound almost any material – except glass and
of water to the air. metals. Water vapor in the air always
Floor mopping – When an 8' x 10' kitchen wants to move toward dry air. Scientists
floor is mopped and rinsed, almost 2 1⁄ 2 call this “vapor pressure” action. It will go
pounds of water can be released into the air. through walls, floor covering, plywood,
Clothes drying – After 10 pounds of clothes paint – just about anything. The water that
have been washed and spin-dried in a gets trapped in these materials can cause
washer, they still contain about 10 pounds warping, mildew, paint failure and rotting.
of water. If these clothes are dried inside, The damage caused by excessive humidity
that water is released into the air in the RV. can be invisible, and worse, expensive to
Propane appliances – When Propane is fix. Please remember that this damage is
burned, carbon dioxide, nitrogen and water not covered under the warranty.
are given off into the air. For every 1000
cubic feet of Propane burned, nearly 88 Q. – What can I do to reduce or eliminate
pounds of water is released into the air. condensation problems in my RV?
Humidifiers – Humidifiers are designed to
put moisture into dry air – up to two A. – The two most important things are:

06-8
 Living With Your Motor Home

Reduce moisture released into To increase ventilation:

the air and increase ventilation 1. Use the kitchen and bath exhaust fans, if
To reduce moisture released inside the RV: equipped, when cooking or bathing. Let
1. Run the vent fan when cooking and the them run for a while after a bath or meal.
bath vent fan (or open the bath vent) 2. Ventilate with outside air. Partially open
when bathing. one or more roof vents and/or windows to
2. Avoid making steam from excessive provide circulation of outside air into the
boiling or use of hot water. interior. While this ventilation will
increase furnace heating load, it will
3. Remove water or snow from shoes greatly reduce, or eliminate, condensation.
before entering to avoid soaking the car- Even when it is raining or snowing, out-
pet. side air will be far drier than interior air
4. Avoid drying clothes inside (except in and will effectively reduce condensation.
the dryer, if equipped). The water drying 3. Do not tape windows or doors closed.
out of the clothes goes into the air. This will prevent any air movement and
5. Vent appliances to the outside. Your will make the condensation problem
clothes dryer should always be vented worse.
according to the dryer manufacturer’s 4. Ventilate closets and cabinets. During
installation instructions. (Some dryers use in cold weather, leave cabinet and
are designed to be ventless and do not closet doors partially open to warm and
require a vent to the outdoors.) Check ventilate the interiors of storage com-
the vents periodically to be sure they are partments built against exterior walls.
not blocked. The air flow will warm the exterior wall
6. If you operate or use vaporizing surface, and reduce condensation, and
inhalers, or similar devices, always pro- prevent possible ice formation. Avoid
vide adequate ventilation. crowding closets or wardrobe space.
Overstuffed closets restrict air flow.

! CAUTION 5. Stock kitchen and bath cabinets to allow

free air circulation.
Do not heat the RV interior with the range or oven. Open 6. Open window coverings and windows
flames add moisture to the interior air. Do not use an air
humidifier inside the RV. Water put into the air by the as often as possible and convenient.
humidifier will increase condensation. 7. Control the interior heat. Here are some
tips on controlling humidity with heat:

! WARNING
• Keep registers and the furnace blower
clean and unobstructed. This helps air
circulation.
Never use open flame Propane or kerosene-burning
heaters indoors. These devices release water into the • Do not operate a humidity device on
air, and the exhaust gases contain poisonous your furnace.
substances.

Install a Dehumidifier Appliance

! WARNING During prolonged, continuous use, a dehumidi-
fying appliance may be more comfortable and
Do not cover emergency exit window(s). This window effective in removing excess moisture from the
must be left accessible at all times for emergency exit.
interior air. While use of a dehumidifier is not a

06-9
Living With Your Motor Home

“cure-all,” and ventilation, storm windows, and Moisture in the RV can stem from a variety of
moisture reduction continue to be important, sources such as spills, leaks, overflows, condensa-
operation of the dehumidifier will reduce the tion, damp or standing water and human activity
amount of outside air needed for ventilation. such as showering or cooking. Good maintenance
Heating load on the furnace will be reduced, and practices are essential in the effort to prevent or
the interior will be less drafty. reduce mold growth.

Dripping Ceiling Vents What the RV Owner Can Do

During cold weather condensation frequently The RV owner can take positive steps to reduce
forms on ceiling vents and may even accumulate the occurrence of mold growth in the RV and
to the point of dripping onto the surfaces below. thereby minimize any possible adverse effects
This is frequently misinterpreted as a “leaking” that may be caused by mold.
roof vent but is most often condensation drip-
These steps may include, but are not limited to,
page. Follow the preceding steps to control
the following:
moisture condensation, and protect surfaces with
plastic sheeting until the moisture has dissipated. • Before bringing items into the RV check for
signs of mold. Potted plants (root and soil),
furnishings, or stored clothing and bedding
IMPORTANT INFORMATION materials may also contain mold spores.
Mold is a fungus that occurs naturally in the • Regular vacuuming and cleaning will help
environment and serves necessary functions reduce levels of settled mold spores.
including aiding in the decomposition of plant and Additionally, detergent solutions and most
other organic material. Mold spreads by means of tile cleaners are effective in controlling
microscopic spores borne on the wind and is mold growth on surfaces.
found everywhere life can be supported. Mold has • Keep the humidity in the RV below 40%.
existed for millions of years, and human beings Ventilate kitchens and bathrooms by open-
have coexisted despite their exposure to mold and ing windows, using exhaust fans, or running
mold spores. the air conditioning to remove excess mois-
If the proper conditions are present, mold can and ture in the air and to facilitate evaporation
will grow in your recreational vehicle. Most RV of water from wet surfaces. In general, win-
owners are familiar with mold growth in the form dows or doors throughout the RV should be
of bread and cheese and on bathroom tile. In order opened periodically to ventilate the RV.
to grow, mold requires a food source. These food • Promptly clean up spills, condensation, and
sources might be supplied by items found in the other sources of moisture. Thoroughly dry
RV such as fabric, carpet, wallpaper, or building any wet surfaces or material. Do not let
materials (i.e., wood, and insulation). Also, most water pool or stand in or under your RV.
mold growth requires a temperate climate. The • Inspect for leaks on a regular basis. Look
best growth occurs at temperatures between 40ºF for discolorations or wet spots. Repair any
and 100ºF. Most importantly, mold growth leaks promptly. Inspect condensation pans
requires moisture, and moisture is the only growth (refrigeration and air conditioners) for
factor that can be controlled. By minimizing inte- mold growth. Take notice of musty odors
rior sources of moisture, an RV owner can reduce and any visible signs of mold growth.
or prevent mold growth. However, if optimal
growth conditions persist, mold can develop Other actions the RV owner can take to prevent
within 24 to 48 hours. moisture issues include the following:

06-10
 Living With Your Motor Home

• Do NOT use unvented Propane, kerosene, Propane System and Appliances chapters for
or other unvented combustion heaters; other safety and operating information.
• Do NOT cover or close off the floor regis-
ters; (if equipped)
• Check your cooling equipment filter on a
! WARNING
monthly basis; This product is manufactured with urea-formalde-
• Use the air conditioner or a dehumidifier hyde resin. Formaldehyde vapor may in some
people cause headaches, eye, nose and throat
during humid months, particularly during
irritation, and aggravation of allergies and respira-
the summer in hot, humid climates; tory problems, such as asthma. Proper ventilation
• Use exhaust fans in kitchen and bathrooms should reduce the risk of such problems.
to remove excess moisture;
• Clean the bathroom with mold-killing
products ! WARNING
For more information about mold, and what you This product is manufactured with a urea-
can do to reduce moisture and remediate mold formaldehyde resin and will release small
growth in your RV, please refer to the following quantities of formaldehyde. Formaldehyde lev-
websites and literature; els in the indoor air can cause temporary eye
and respiratory irritation, and may aggravate
1. U.S. Environmental Protection Agency. respiratory conditions or allergies. Ventilation
Mold Remediation in Schools and will reduce indoor formaldehyde levels.
Commercial Buildings 2001.
http://www.epa.gov/iaq/molds/moldremediation.html
2. U.S. Environmental Protection Agency. ! WARNING
A Brief Guide to Mold, Moisture, and Your
Home, 2002. Irritant: This product contains a urea-formalde-
http://www.epa.gov/iaq/molds/moldquide.html hyde resin and may release formaldehyde
vapors in low concentrations. Formaldehyde
IMPORTANT INFORMATION can be irritating to the eyes and upper respira-
tory system of especially susceptible persons
The particle board, hardwood plywood, or pan- such as those with allergies or respiratory ail-
eling used in your motor home are made with ments. Use with adequate ventilation. If symp-
urea-formaldehyde resin. The companies that toms develop, consult your physician.
supply us with these materials have asked that
we tell you about urea-formaldehyde with the
statements on this page. FIRE SAFETY
Ventilation is important for making the interior The hazard and possibility of fire exists in all
of your motor home comfortable. Please read areas of life, and the recreational life-style is no
the section about ventilation and prolonged exception. Your RV is a complex machine made
occupancy in the Living With Your Motor up of many materials, some of them flammable.
Home chapter in this Owner’s Manual. But like most hazards, the possibility of fire can
be minimized, if not totally eliminated, by recog-
We provide you consumer information as detailed nizing the danger and practicing common sense,
by the National Fire Protection Association safety and maintenance habits.
(NFPA) and the American National Standards
Institute (ANSI). The information and warnings Know where your fire extinguisher is located
found on these pages may also be found in other and how and when to use it. Read the instruc-
chapters of this Owner’s Manual. Please see the tions on the fire extinguisher. Remember that

06-11
Living With Your Motor Home

portable fire extinguishers are intended for use • Consider the cause and severity of the fire
by the occupants of a building or area that is and risk involved before trying to put it out.
threatened by fire. They are most valuable when If the fire is major or is fuel-fed, stand
used immediately on small fires. They have a clear of the vehicle and wait for the fire
limited amount of fire-extinguishing material, department or other emergency assistance.
and therefore must be used properly so this • If your RV is damaged by fire, do not move
material is not wasted. or live in it until you have had it thoroughly
Fire extinguishers are pressurized, mechanical examined and repaired.
devices. They must be handled with care and Just as in your home, included below are some
treated with respect. They must be maintained common sense tips to help prevent a fire inci-
as outlined in any maintenance instructions pro- dent from occurring.
vided with the device so they are ready to oper-
• Never leave unattended food cooking on
ate properly and safely. Parts or internal chemi-
the stove or in the oven.
cals may deteriorate in time and need replace-
ment. Always follow maintenance and recharg- • Never smoke in bed or leave cigars/ciga-
rettes unattended.
ing instructions provided by the fire extinguisher
manufacturer. Maintain proper charge in the fire • Keep candles or any open flames away
extinguisher. from curtains/fabrics/walls and ceiling.
• Keep matches and igniter devices safely
stored and away from small children.
! WARNING • Do not store combustibles inside your RV
Urethane foam is flammable! (gasoline, charcoal lighter, etc.).
Do not expose urethane foams to open flames or any
other direct or indirect high temperature sources of
ignition such as burning operations, welding, burning
cigarettes, space heaters or unprotected electric light
! WARNING
bulbs. Do not bring or store Propane containers, gasoline or
Once ignited, urethane foams will burn rapidly, releas- other flammable liquids inside the vehicle because a
ing great heat and consuming oxygen very quickly. fire or explosion may result.
In an enclosed space the resulting deficiency of oxy-
gen will present a danger of suffocation to the occu-
pants. Hazardous gases released by the burning
foam can be incapacitating or fatal to human beings if
inhaled in sufficient quantities. ! WARNING
Explosive fuel clouds may be present at fuel filling
stations. Before refueling (either gasoline, diesel
Fire Safety Precautions fuel or Propane) be sure to turn off all pilot flames
and appliances in your motor home. Turning off
In addition to instructing occupants on what to the Propane at the tank is insufficient. Pilotless
appliances may still spark or pilot flames may not
do in case of fire, and holding fire drills periodi- extinguish immediately.
cally, consider these fire safety suggestions:
• If you experience a fire while traveling,
maintain control of the vehicle until you can ! WARNING
safely stop. Evacuate the vehicle as quickly
and safely as possible. Portable fuel burning equipment, including wood and
charcoal grills and stoves, shall not be used inside
• If you experience a fire while camped, this recreational vehicle. The use of this equipment
evacuate the vehicle as quickly and safely inside the recreational vehicle may cause fires or
asphyxiation.
as possible.

06-12
 Living With Your Motor Home

Smoke Detector/Alarm
A battery-powered smoke detector/alarm is
mounted on the ceiling in the living/cooking area
of your motor home. Please read the smoke detec-
tor/alarm operating instructions for details on test-
ing and caring for this important safety device.
Test the smoke detector/alarm after the motor
home has been in storage, before each trip, and
at least once a week during use.
The smoke detector/alarm should never be dis-
abled due to nuisance or false alarm from cook-
ing smoke, a dusty furnace, etc.
Ventilate your motor home with fresh air and
the detector/alarm will shut off. Do not discon-
nect the battery.

Replace the battery once a year or immediately

when the low battery BEEP signal sounds.

If the smoke detector/alarm fails to operate

with new batteries, replace it with a new unit,
available through an authorized Fleetwood
Dealer.

06-13
This page intentionally blank.
 PLUMBING SYSTEMS AND
HOLDING TANKS
The plumbing systems in your motor home are
constructed of durable thermoplastic materials.
Holding tanks and piping components are
strong, lightweight, and corrosion resistant.
Holding tanks are of three types:
• Fresh – Fresh potable water
• Grey – Lavy/shower effluent
• Black – Toilet effluent
External Fresh Water Connection
It is recommended to discharge as many fluid
tanks as practical before driving.
! CAUTION
FRESH WATER SYSTEM Since water pressures at campgrounds vary, we rec-
ommend you install an in-line pressure regulator (if
Fresh, potable water is available from either an not equipped) at the water supply faucet. This will pro-
external “city water” hookup or on-board storage. tect the motor home water system and your supply
hose from excessively high water pressure.

External Fresh Water Hookup To disconnect the city water:

The external system is pressurized by the water 1. Turn OFF the city water supply.
system at an RV park or city water supply. The 2. Remove the hose from the city water supply
connection is located in the utility compartment valve.
on the rear left side of the motor home. 3. Drain and store the hose.
To connect to pressurized city water:
1. Connect one end of a potable water hose to Filling the On-Board Water Tank
the RV park or city water supply. This will The on-board fresh water tank can be filled in
usually be a faucet or valve similar to your two ways: (1) city water pressure or (2) gravity.
garden hose valve at home. Potable water
hoses are available at RV supply stores. 1. City water pressure – When connected to
the city water supply as described above,
2. Run the city water supply for a few sec- turn the bypass valve located in the utility
onds to clear the line. Turn off the water. compartment to “Water Tank Fill” from the
3. Attach the other end of the potable water “Normal” setting. This will fill the on-
hose to city water connection located on board fresh water tank.
the motor home. Make sure all connections Make sure the external gravity fill connec-
are tight. tion is open (remove the cap) to allow air
4. Turn on the RV park/city water supply. to escape from the on-board tank. When
Open all faucets inside the motor home to water flows out of this external fill, the on-
clear the lines. Then turn off faucets. board tank is full.
After filling, turn the bypass valve to
“Normal.”

07-1
Plumbing Systems and Holding Tanks

Turn the pump master switch ON to pressurize

! CAUTION the system. When a faucet is opened after the
initial filling of the tank, the water may sputter
Overfilling the fresh water tank from a pressurized for a few seconds. This is normal and is not
source may cause damage to the water system. cause for concern. The water flow will become
Monitor water tank filling continually.
steady when all air is bled from the water lines.
2. Gravity fill –The external gravity water fill
is located on the exterior of the motor
home. The on-board water tank can be
✓ NOTE
Turn water pump off before traveling. Road vibration
filled here. To fill the fresh water tank, could cause a faucet to open. If the water pump is on,
your fresh water supply could be pumped into the
remove the cap, remove the vent plug, and holding tank.
fill the tank using a potable water hose.
Water Pump Filter
Dirt, mineral scale, and organic matter are filtered
out of the fresh water system by an in-line water
filter on the inlet side of the water pump. If you
suspect a clogged filter, it is easily removed and
cleaned.
Inspect the filter after running the first full tank
of water. Clean and inspect monthly thereafter.
The filter is located in the utility compartment
Typical Gravity Fresh Water Tank Fill behind the service panel.
1. Loosen the clamp at the inlet end of the filter.
Draining the Fresh Water Tank 2. Pull the water line off the filter.
Avoid leaving the water in the tank when the 3. Unscrew the filter from the water pump.
motor home is not in use. Turn the water pump 4. Turn each end of the filter and pull apart.
OFF before draining the water tank. Whenever
5. Flush out and clean screen.
possible, drain the fresh water tank before trav-
eling. Water in the tank will reduce the carrying 6. Reverse procedure to install.
capacity of the motor home. See Motor Home 7. Operate the water pump and check for leaks.
Loading section of the On The Road chapter.
The main water tank “quick-drain” valve may Low Point Drains
be located on the end of the water tank, or in the To drain hot and cold lines:
utility compartment. 1. Open hot and cold low point drains.
2. Open the shower handle and faucet until all
Water Pump water has drained from the lines.
The on-board fresh water system is pressurized
by a self-priming, 12-volt DC pump. The pump Troubleshooting the
operates automatically when the pump power Fresh Water System
switch is ON and a faucet is opened. When the
faucets are closed, the pump shuts off. It can run Water system problems usually fall into two
dry for extended periods without damage. See categories: Inherent system problems, and prob-
Electrical Systems chapter. lems caused by neglect. System problems are

07-2
 Plumbing Systems and Holding Tanks

usually the result of road vibration and campsite Sanitizing the Fresh Water System
water pressure variations. Problems of neglect
usually stem from failure to clean filters, As approved by the U.S. Public Health Service,
improper winterization, and poor battery main- sanitize the fresh water tank and piping system
tenance. Most water system problems can be whenever the system may have become contam-
avoided by conscientious maintenance. inated, has not been used for a period of time, or
before long periods of storage. This will dis-
courage the growth of bacteria and other organ-
Leaks isms that can contaminate the water supply. Use
Vibration, flexing and twisting while traveling a chlorine/fresh water rinse as follows:
can work pipe fittings loose. Check all plumbing 1. Prepare a solution of 1⁄4-cup household
for leaks at least once a year. If the water pump liquid chlorine bleach (5% sodium
runs when a faucet is not open, suspect a leak. hypochlorite) to one gallon of water. Use
Be sure the tank drain valves are tightly closed. one gallon solution for each 15 gallons of
Leaks occur most often around threaded fittings. tank capacity.
If necessary, tighten or clean and tighten the fit- 2. Close drain valves and faucets, pour the
tings. Do not overtighten fittings. Connections at chlorine solution into the exterior fresh
galley and lavy fixtures should not be tightened water tank filler spout, and complete filling
with a wrench. They will normally seal with at tank with potable water.
hand-tightening. If a leak persists at one of the
3. Turn water pump switch ON. (Be sure you
fittings, disconnect it completely and check for
have 12-volt DC power.) Open all faucets
mineral deposits or other foreign matter at the
individually until water flows steadily, then
seating surfaces. Clean the surfaces thoroughly
turn them off. This will purge any air from
and reinstall the fitting.
the lines.
Connections at the water tank, pump and valves 4. Top off water tank with fresh water and
are made with special clamps. They can be allow the system to stand for at least 4 hours.
replaced with standard automotive type hose
5. Drain the entire system by opening all
clamps.
potable water tank valves, plumbing line
Leaks caused by freezing damage can be pre- drain valves, and operating faucets.
vented by proper winterization of the system. 6. Flush the system with potable water. Let the
See the Storage chapter of this manual. fresh water flow through the system for
Freezing damage is usually extensive and may several minutes to flush out the chlorine
include a burst water tank, split piping, and a solution.
damaged water pump, toilet, and water heater. If
7. After you stop the flushing, close the tank
you experience this type of damage, repairs can
valve, drain valves, and faucets. You can
best be made by an authorized Fleetwood Dealer.
now fill the tank with potable water, and
For your safety, the shower faucet is equipped the system is ready to use.
with a vacuum breaker device. This device is
designed to prevent backflow of water into the Exterior Shower (If Equipped)
fresh water system, reducing the possibility of
contamination of the water supply. When the A shower fixture is mounted in the exterior util-
faucet is in the OFF position with the shower hose ity compartment. The water pump must be ON
held above the faucet, water will drain out of the or city water pressure must be available for the
vacuum breaker. This drainage is not a defect, but shower to operate.
indicates that the faucet is working correctly.

07-3
Plumbing Systems and Holding Tanks

Power Water Hose Reel (If Equipped) dispose of waste water at your convenience. A
flexible sewer hose is required to connect the
The water hose reel uses 12-volt DC power to holding tank outlet to the inlet of an approved
operate the control panel switch, which is waste water dump station or sewer system.
located next to the water hose reel. Your
Owner’s Information Package contains detailed The drain plumbing is very similar to that used
operating and maintenance instructions concern- in your home. The system is trapped and vented
ing this system. to prevent waste gases from backing up into the
RV. The drain plumbing is made of plastic, and
is durable and resistant to most chemicals. All
Whole Coach Water Filter System drain plumbing except the toilet connection ter-
(If Equipped) minates in the gray water holding tank and
The water filter helps provide consistent drink- drains directly into it.
ing water quality to the entire water system. The
filter cartridge is located in the service panel Toilet
compartment. Your Owner’s Information Your RV is equipped with a marine-type toilet.
Package contains detailed operating and mainte- The flushing mechanism, whether a foot-oper-
nance instructions concerning this system. ated pedal or a hand-operated lever, allows a
valve in the bottom of the bowl to open, permit-
✓ NOTE
This system is not designed for or effective in remov-
ting the contents to be flushed into the “black”
holding tank. A stream of water under pressure
ing or neutralizing bacterial contaminants. from the RV’s water system swirls around the
bowl, cleaning it and flushing the contents into
the holding tank. Most models have two levers,
Insta-Hot Drinking Water System each working independently of the other so the
(If Equipped) bowl can be filled with water prior to use.
The Insta-Hot drinking water system is tied into In order to help prevent hard deposits from
the coach drinking water system. It will provide building up within the “black” tank and help
instant filtered hot water from the galley water reduce unwanted odor, it is recommended to
dispenser. Your Owner’s Information Package always keep water in the tank. When empty after
contains detailed operating and maintenance a tank discharge, flush the toilet several times in
instructions concerning this system. order to introduce about five gallons of water.

✓ NOTE
This system is not designed for or effective in remov-
It is highly recommended that a deodorizing
product should be used for the black tank after
each discharge at a dumping station. This will
ing or neutralizing bacterial contaminants.
help control unwanted odors.
Ensure that the black tank sewer drain system is
WASTE WATER SYSTEM always closed and only opened when draining at
The waste water system in your RV is made up a dump station. Never allow your black tank
of sinks, tub, shower, toilet, plumbing drain and system to dry out unless it has been thoroughly
vent lines, a “gray water” holding tank and a cleaned, sanitized and rinsed first.
“black water” holding tank. The gray tank holds For additional information, please refer to the
shower, tub and sinks, where the black tank holds toilet operating manual in your Owner’s
toilet effluent. The holding tanks make the sys- Information Package.
tem completely self-contained and allow you to

07-4
 Plumbing Systems and Holding Tanks

Draining the Holding Tanks During extended or semi-permanent hookups to

sewage systems, waste materials will build up in
The holding tanks terminate in a valve arrange- the tank and cause serious plugging if the tank
ment that permits draining each tank separately. valves are continuously open. In these cases,
The valves are called knife valves. A blade closes keep the valves closed until the tanks are 3 ⁄ 4-full,
the opening in the sewer drain pipes. The blade is and then drain into the sewage system.
connected to a T-handle and cable assembly The holding tank drain valve outlet is to be used
mounted in the utility compartment. Do not pull with a removable termination fitting that locks
the holding tank knife valve open when the onto the outlet with a clockwise twist. Clamp the
protective cap is installed on the pipe. Pull the sewer drain hose to this fitting. A protective cap
T-handle to release the contents of the tank(s). should remain in place when you are not drain-
ing the tanks.

! WARNING
Holding tanks are enclosed sewer systems and as
such must be drained into an approved dump station.
Both black and gray water holding tanks must be
drained and thoroughly rinsed regularly to prevent
accumulation of harmful or toxic materials.

Gray Holding Tank Dumping

✓ NOTE
Local or state regulations may prohibit highway travel
unless the holding tank outlet is securely capped.

To drain the holding tanks:

1. Attach the sewer hose to the holding tank
outlet. Insert the end of the hose into the
sewer or dump station inlet, pushing it firmly
Black Water Tank Dumping far enough into the opening to be secure. In
some cases, adapters may be necessary or
During self-containment use, the sewer line is required between the line and the inlet.
securely capped to prevent leakage of waste Arrange the sewer hose so it slopes evenly.
material onto the ground or pavement. Always 2. Drain the black water holding tank first.
drain the tank into an acceptable sewer inlet or Grasp the handle of the black water knife
dump station. valve (the large one) firmly and slide the
valve open with a quick, steady pull.
Drain the holding tanks only when they are at least
3
⁄ 4-full. If necessary, fill the tanks with water to 3⁄ 4- 3. Allow enough time for the tank to drain
full. This provides sufficient water to allow com- completely. Rinse and flush the tank
plete flushing of waste material into the sewer line. through the toilet. When the tank is empty,
push the handle in to close the valve. Run
Whenever possible, drain the holding tanks before enough water (up to five gallons or so) into
traveling. Waste water and sewage in the holding the tank to cover the bottom. This will aid
tanks reduce the carrying capacity of the motor the break up of solid wastes, and reduce
home. See the Motor Home Loading chapter. “pyramiding” of waste material.

07-5
Plumbing Systems and Holding Tanks

the break up of solid wastes, and reduce you are parked at a site with a semiperma-
“pyramiding” of waste material. nent sewer hookup, keep the black water
4. To drain the gray water tank, repeat the steps knife valve closed to allow the waste level to
above using the small knife valve. This tank build up. The outlet will probably clog if you
is drained last to aid in flushing the outlets leave the knife valve open continually. Run
and hose. The gray water knife valve may be enough water into the tank to cover the bot-
left open in a semi-permanent hookup. tom. This will aid the break up of solid
5. See the tank flush system instructions in wastes.
the next section if your recreational vehicle 6. Replace sewer or dump station covers.
is so equipped.
6. Remove the sewer hose and cap the outlet. San-T-Flush Operation
7. Rinse out the sewer hose with fresh water (Black and Grey Tank Flush System)
and remove the sewer hose from the dump (Using sanitizing bottle from kit)
station. (If Equipped)
8. Replace sewer or dump station covers. 1. Dump holding tanks in the usual manner at
an approved station.
! CAUTION 2. Leave dump valves open.
3. Attach garden hose to San-T-Flush
The sewer drain valve must be open when using the attachment.
black tank flush inlet.
4. Remove clear plastic bottle.
Black Tank Flush System 5. Place one (1) waste liquefier tablet into
(If Equipped) screen.
6. Replace the bottle. Hand tighten.
A black water holding tank system that is
equipped with a flush system has rinsing spray 7. Hook water hose to inlet side of the sani-
heads inside the tank that will aid in the removal tizing bottle cover.
of sewage residue from the interior of the hold- 8. Connect the male disconnect to the San-T-
ing tank. To operate the tank flushing system, Flush valve (yellow handle). Turn the
follow the procedures for Draining The valve to “BLACK TANK.”
Holding Tanks in this chapter. After dumping 9. Flush black tank until tablet is 2/3 dissolved.
the gray water tank proceed as follows:
10. While water is running, turn the San-T-
1. With the dump valves open, attach a garden Flush valve to “GREY WATER TANK”
hose to the black tank flush inlet connection. and flush until the tablet is dissolved.
2. Turn on water supply to garden hose and 11. Turn San-T-Flush valve to “BLACK
allow the water to run for approximately TANK.”
three minutes to flush tank. 12. Remove San-T-Flush attachment and
3. Turn off water supply to garden hose. garden hose.
4. Remove hose from black tank flush inlet 13. Remove the sewer hose and cap the outlet.
connection and store hose. 14. Rinse out the sewer hose with fresh water
5. After rinse water has thoroughly drained and remove the sewer hose from the dump
from the black tank, close the knife valve station.
and replace the termination cap. Rinse out Replace sewer or dump station covers.
the sewer hose with fresh water and remove
the sewer hose from the dump station. If

07-6
 Plumbing Systems and Holding Tanks

Please...Practice good housekeeping when • Keep the black water tank knife valve
draining wastes at a campsite or disposal sta- closed. Fill tank to at least 3 ⁄ 4-full before
tion. Leave the site in good order. Above all, do draining. Be sure to cover the tank bottom
not pollute. with water after draining.
• Use only toilet tissue formulated for use in
! CAUTION septic tank or RV sanitation systems.
• Keep both knife valves closed and locked,
The sewer drain valve must be open when using the and the drain cap tightly in place when
black tank flush inlet.
using the system on the road.
• Use only cleaners that are approved for use
! CAUTION in septic tank or RV sanitation systems.
• Use a special holding tank deodorant chem-
Do not use the same hose you use for filling the ical approved for septic tank systems in the
potable water tank, or for connection to the city water
inlet. This is especially true if you the connect the black water holding tank. These chemicals
quick connect hose to the typical rinsing hoses at aid the breakdown of solid wastes and make
most dumping stations. Use of a different hose will the system much more pleasant to use. Do
insure that you will not contaminate your fresh water
supply. not put facial tissue, paper, ethylene glycol-
based or other automotive antifreeze, femi-
nine hygiene products or household toilet
Holding Tank Care cleaners in the holding tanks.
Since holding tanks don’t rely on any sophisti- • Do not put anything solid in either tank
cated mechanical devices for their operation, that could scratch or puncture the tank.
they are virtually trouble-free. The most com- If the drain system does get clogged:
mon problem is also an unpleasant one – clog-
ging. You can minimize the chances of clogging • Use a hand-operated probe to loosen stub-
by keeping the following considerations in mind: born accumulations.

GALLEY SINK

WATER FILL
VENT
WATER HEATER
LAVATORY SINK

WATER TANK
SHOWER DRAIN

BYPASS
TOILET WATER

WATER SYSTEM DRAINS

EXTERIOR SHOWER
CITY WATER BYPASS WATER PUMP
INLET
FILTER

Typical Hot and Cold Diagram

07-7
Plumbing Systems and Holding Tanks
• Seriously clogged P-traps may require disas- Cold Weather Usage
sembly. Be careful not to overtighten when
reassembling. The holding tank(s) area is heated through ducts
from the furnace. To prevent holding tank freeze
• Do not use harsh household drain cleaners.
up, the furnace thermostat should be set to main-
• Do not use motorized drain augers. tain a minimum of 33 degrees Fahrenheit in the
• Sometimes the holding tank valve will get holding tank(s) area, Be aware that exposed drains
clogged. In this case, a hand-operated auger may freeze quickly.
may be necessary. Be ready to close the valve
quickly once the clog is cleared. If the seal
gets damaged, it is easily replaced.

SPRAY
NOZZLE

American Eagle and Tradition Utility Compartment (detail varies depending on product)

SENSATANK TANK MONITOR

MULTIPLEX SWITCH

SPRAY NOZZLE HOT & COLD VALVES

FOR SPRAYER

GFI OUTLET

GREY TANK WATER

PUMP SWITCH
CARGO LIGHT
12 VOLT OUTLET

BLACK TANK WATER

PUMP SWITCH CITY WATER CONECTION

PAPER TOWEL
HOLDER

SANI-FLUSH VALVE

SANI-FLUSH CONECTION
SEWER HOSE CONECTION
SOAP DISPENSER WATER TANK
BYPASS

Heritage Utility Compartment (detail varies depending on product)

07-8
 ELECTRICAL SYSTEMS

Your motor home is equipped with three electri- other vehicle lights and accessories
cal systems:
the chassis 12-volt system Chassis Bulbs and Fuses
the Fleetwood 12-volt house system
Always replace bulbs and fuses with equivalent
the 120-volt AC system. types and ratings.
They operate together to give you electrical Fuses will interrupt the flow of electricity if a
power for many different situations. circuit is overloaded.

Batteries See the American Coach Information section

04 in this manual for the locations of breaker
Your motor home has two battery systems. One and fuse panels used in your RV.
system supplies 12-volt DC power to start the
vehicle engine. The other system supplies 12-
volt DC power to the house living area and
! CAUTION
starts the generator. Always replace bulbs and fuses with equivalent types.
The type is marked on the bulb or fuse.

! CAUTION FLEETWOOD 12-VOLT HOUSE

The systems in this coach are not designed to be AND AUTOMOTIVE SYSTEM
used for any life-support applications. In the unlikely
event a system in this coach should malfunction, or This system generally includes:
fail to operate, it is possible any connected appli-
ances, including life support equipment, may also fail, • all 12-volt interior lighting fixtures &
resulting in potential medical complications. outlets
• fresh water pump
CHASSIS 12-VOLT
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM • satellite
• 12-volt accessories
The chassis 12-volt or vehicle electrical system
generally includes: House batteries provide 12-volt DC power.
the chassis battery These batteries are not the chassis 12-volt
chassis/house battery charging system batteries. Power is also provided by a DC con-
verter that operates when the motor home elec-
ignition system
trical cord is plugged into 120-volt AC power
instrument panel and controls source or by the generator (if equipped). The
headlights, taillights, turn signals house batteries are charged by the motor home
power entry step engine alternator, or by the converter when it is
Propane detector/alarm operating.
leveling jacks (if equipped)
slide-out (if equipped) ✓ NOTE
Power for living area radios and tape decks is avail-
fog lights (if equipped)
able from either the chassis or house batteries. A
air horns (if equipped) switch on the instrument panel allows you to select
power seats (if equipped) the power source. If you use the radio, tape decks, or
other 12-volt DC equipment for long periods of time
radio when the motor home engine is not running, either
luggage compartment lights battery may be discharged.

08-1
Electrical Systems

Battery Disconnect (If Equipped) To clean the batteries:

Some accessories or equipment such as clocks, 1. Wash the battery with a diluted solution of
radios or the refrigerator may draw small baking soda and water to neutralize any
amounts of current even when turned OFF. A acid present.
manual operated rotary switch disconnect sys- 2. Flush with clean water. Foaming around
tem allows you to disconnect either the chassis terminals or on top of the battery is normal
batteries or the coach batteries or both. acid neutralization. Avoid getting the soda
Disconnecting the batteries will help reduce the solution in the battery.
likelihood of battery discharge over long storage 3. Dry the cables and terminals.
periods. For your convenience, relay operated
4. Do not use grease on the bare metal inside
disconnect circuits may be equipped with your
the cable terminals to prevent corrosion.
motor home. These circuits isolate selected elec-
Most greases are an insulator. A plastic bat-
trical systems from either the chassis or the
tery terminal spray will protect the termi-
house batteries. Deactivating the relay(s) will
nals after they have been cleaned and rein-
prevent battery discharge which may occur over
stalled.
extended storage periods. During normal use of
your motor home the relays must always be in 5. Keep the carrier and hold down hardware
the “on” position. clean and free of corrosion and chemical
accumulation.
If you plan to store the motor home for an
extended period, position the disconnect
switch/es to OFF. Remember to position the
switch/es to ON when you take the motor home
! WARNING
out of storage. Before working on either electrical system shut OFF
the Automatic Generator Start System (AGS), gener-
ator, inverter, chassis engine and disconnect the
✓ NOTE
When charging the batteries, the battery disconnect
shore cord and negative terminals from the batteries.
If you work on the electrical systems with these sys-
tems ON or connected, you may be shocked, electro-
switches must be ON. cuted, or severely burned.

Battery Inspection and Care

Battery Charging
! WARNING Both sets of batteries will be kept charged by the
Do not use the motor home when the chassis batter- chassis engine alternator and charging system
ies are disconnected. The power step will not operate while you are driving. The DC power converter
as designed if the chassis battery is disconnected. If
the step is not in the correct extended position, you will charge the chassis and house batteries when
may be injured if you step out of the motor home. plugged into 120-volt AC service or by the gener-
ator (if equipped). If the battery needs to be
charged from a different charging source, please
Check the external condition of the batteries
follow these safety guidelines:
periodically. Look for cracks in the cover and
case. Check the vent plugs and replace any that • Leaving a charger connected to a battery for
are cracked or broken. Keep the batteries clean. an extended period of time can shorten bat-
Acid film and dirt on the battery top may permit tery life.
current to flow between the terminals and dis- • Do not smoke near batteries being charged
charge the battery. or which have been recently charged. Please

08-2
 Electrical Systems

note that batteries are being charged while Solar Panel (If Equipped)
you drive, and while you are connected to
120-volt AC power through the converter/ Your new motor home may be equipped with an
charger circuit. optional solar charger. The solar charging panel
• Do not break live circuits at the terminals installed on the roof of your motor home is
of the battery. Use care when connecting or designed to “trickle-charge” your battery system.
disconnecting booster leads or cables. It is not intended to be a fast charger. It also can-
Attaching booster cables, and poor connec- not supply large amounts of current to operate
tions are a common cause of electrical arcs 12-volt DC electrical equipment. When the sky
which can cause explosion. is clear and under bright sun, the solar panel will
help keep your batteries “topped-up”. Do not try
• Do not charge the batteries at a rate other to operate 12-volt DC appliances with the output
than what is recommended in the Owner's of the solar panel.
Manual.
• In cold temperature storage conditions, bat- Selecting a Replacement Battery
teries may freeze if not properly charged.
When the battery requires replacement, always
choose a battery with the same physical and elec-
trical characteristics as the original equipment.
! WARNING Your dealer or an authorized Fleetwood Service
Center can advise you on proper battery selection.
Remove rings, metal watchbands, and other metal
jewelry before working around a battery. Use caution
when using metal tools. If a tool contacts a battery ter- Auxiliary Start System (If Equipped)
minal or metal connected to it, a short circuit could
occur which could cause personal injury, explosion or You can use the Auxiliary Start System to start
fire. the chassis engine or the generator with the
house batteries if the chassis batteries are dis-
charged.

! WARNING To use the Auxiliary Start System to start the

chassis engine:
Do not allow battery electrolyte to contact skin, eyes, 1. Be sure the motor home is stopped. Shift
fabrics, or painted surfaces. The electrolyte is a sul-
phuric acid solution which could cause serious per- the transmission to N and apply the parking
sonal injury or property damage. Wear eye protection brake.
when working with batteries. 2. Press and hold the Auxiliary Start switch
on the instrument panel.
3. Start the chassis engine with the ignition
! WARNING switch.
4. Hold the auxiliary start switch for at least
Never expose the battery to open flame or electric 30 seconds after motor starts before releas-
spark. Chemical action in the battery generates
hydrogen gas which is flammable and explosive. Do
ing.
not allow battery electrolyte (acid) to contact skin,
eyes, fabrics, or painted surfaces. To use the Auxiliary Start System to start the
generator:
1. Press and hold the Auxiliary Start switch
on the instrument panel.
2. Press the Generator Start switch until the
generator is running.
3. Release the Auxiliary Start switch.

08-3
Electrical Systems

120-VOLT SYSTEM
This system provides grounded 120-volt AC
✓ NOTE
The roof air conditioners cannot be operated on
electrical service for appliances such as air con- power supplied by the inverter. The motor home must
ditioners, TV, microwave ovens, etc. This system be plugged into an external AC service or the gener-
ator must be operating to run the air conditioners.
includes:
• the generator Because the inverter uses 12-volt power,
• the main electrical power cord (“shore extended use of any available appliance (TV,
chord”) microwave, etc.) can run the batteries down. A
• charger and inverter low power indicator and automatic shut-down
system built into the inverter can help prevent
Your motor home is equipped with a heavy duty,
deep battery discharge. When the inverter shuts
power cord. It is commonly called the “shore
down, the batteries will require recharging
cord.” This cord is used to connect to external 120-
through the converter when the motor home is
volt AC service. The cord and connector is molded
plugged into external AC service or when oper-
together to form a weatherproof cable assembly.
ating the generator. The batteries will also be
Do not cut or alter the cable in any way. Do not
recharged by the chassis charging system while
remove the ground pin in the cable connector, or
on the road.
defeat the ground circuit in the motor home.
To connect the power cord to external service, Power Converter
turn off both the circuit breakers at the external
service and the motor home power distribution The converter will automatically supply 12-volt
panel,push the plug straight into the receptacle. DC power when your motor home is operating
on 120-volt from the generator or a public utility.
It also charges the coach and chassis batteries.

! WARNING Ground Fault Circuit Interrupter

Do not operate the 120-volt electrical system without (GFCI)
a proper ground. Electrocution or severe electrical
shock could result. Bathroom, galley, and patio 120-volt electrical
outlets are protected by a Ground Fault Circuit
Interrupter (GFCI). This device is intended to
! CAUTION protect you against the hazards of electrical
shocks possible when using electrical appliances
Switch off the 50 amp main breakers located in the in the bathroom or galley or in damp areas.
120-volt AC load center (breaker panel) before you Should a circuit or appliance (electric shaver,
insert or remove the 50 amp power plug. Be sure to
insert or remove the plug straight into or out of the
hair dryer, etc.) develop a potential shock hazard,
receptacle. The neutral and both 120-volt volt pins the GFCI device is designed to disconnect the
should make contact at the same time to avoid exces- outlet (and other outlets on the same circuit),
sive voltage on one leg of the circuit that could dam-
age 120-volt appliances.
limiting your exposure time.

Power Inverter ✓ NOTE

The inverter uses 12-volt DC power from the If an outlet doesn’t work, check the GFCI. Reset it if
coach batteries and transforms it into 60-cycle, necessary. If the GFCI continues to trip, have the motor
home electrical system checked at an authorized
120-volt AC power to run some of the appli- Fleetwood Service Center or by a qualified electrician.
ances in the motor home.

08-4
 Electrical Systems

Test the GFCI at least once a month. To test Generator Fuel Supply
the GFCI:
Fuel for the generator is taken from the main fuel
1. Connect the main power cord to 120-volt AC. tank through a special feeder tube which is higher
2. Push the TEST button. The RESET button in the tank than the feeder tube to the motor home
should pop out, indicating that the pro- engine. This arrangement prevents the generator
tected circuit has been disconnected. from running the motor home fuel tank dry.
3. If the RESET button does not pop out when
the test button is pushed, a loss of ground Propane Generator (If Equipped)
fault protection is indicated. Do not use any
electrical outlets. Have the motor home Fuel is provided from a dedicated Propane tank.
electrical system checked at an authorized
Fleetwood Service Center or by a qualified
electrician. Do not use the system until the
✓ NOTE
Refer to the generator operating instructions provided
problem has been corrected. in your Owner’s Information Package for informa-
tion before starting the generator. Do not start the
4. To restore power push the RESET button. generator unit with a heavy power load. Always wait
at least three minutes after starting generator before
turning on (or plugging in) heavy electrical loads, such
! WARNING as the roof air conditioner.

Do not install 12-volt fuses or 120-volt breakers with Generator Operations

amperage ratings greater than that specified on the
device or label. Doing so constitutes a fire hazard. To start the generator:
1. Push the control switch to its START
Generator (If Equipped) position and hold it there while the status
Your motor home is equipped with a diesel indicator light blinks rapidly indicating
powered generator which will provide complete preheat. Let go when the light comes on
electrical self-containment when regular public continuously, indicating that the generator
utility AC power is unavailable. Controls are on is running and that the starter has been
the instrument panel, rear bedroom nightstand disconnected. (Depending on how cold it
and on the generator. is, preheat can take up to 15 seconds,
extending the time that the light blinks.)
With the generator operating, power is available
at all of the 120-volt power outlets in the motor
home, just as if the power cord were connected ! CAUTION
to an external source. The generator is also con-
nected to the power converter, thus supplying Excessive cranking can overheat and damage the
starter motor. Do not crank for more than 30 seconds
12-volt power as well. The generator circuit at a time. Wait at least 2 minutes before trying again.
breakers are located on the generator.
2. See the Troubleshooting Guide in RV
! WARNING Genset Operator’s Manual located in the
Owner’s Information Package if the gen-
Do not under any circumstances operate the genera-
tor while sleeping. You would not be able to monitor erator does not start after several tries.
outside conditions to assure that generator exhaust
does not enter the interior, and you would not be alert To stop the generator:
to exhaust odors or symptoms of carbon monoxide
poisoning.
1. Run the generator at no load for a few min-
utes to allow the engine to cool down and

08-5
Electrical Systems

then push the control switch briefly to its

STOP position. ! WARNING
Do not modify the generator installation or exhaust
Generator Operating Safety system in any way.
Precautions Do not use the generator as an emergency power
source to a general residential or industrial utility line.
Read and understand the generator operating, This is illegal and may cause shock or electrocution to
maintenance and safety instruction furnished in power line utility personnel attempting to repair power
lines.
your Owner’s Information Package.
• Do not smoke or use an open flame near
the generator unit or fuel tank.
• Do not use generator ventilation air for
! WARNING
heating any space. Do not block the generator ventilating air inlets or out-
• Check engine fuel lines. Fuel leakage in or lets. The engine requires a constant supply of cooling
air. Restricted ventilating air inlets or outlets can
around the compartment is an extreme fire cause engine failure.
hazard. Do not use the generator until fuel
leaks are repaired.
• Be aware of exhaust gas (carbon monox-
ide) poisoning symptoms. Refer to the sec-
! WARNING
tion on Carbon Monoxide Safety Exhaust gases are deadly. Inspect the generator
Precautions in the On The Road chapter. exhaust system thoroughly before starting the gener-
ator engine. Do not block the tail pipe or situate the
• Check the generator exhaust system after motor home in a place where the exhaust gases have
every usage and whenever the system may any possibility of accumulating either outside, under-
have been damaged, and repair any leaks or neath, or inside your vehicle or any nearby vehicles.
obstructions before further operation. Outside air movements can carry exhaust gases
inside the vehicle through windows or other openings
Disconnect the battery(ies) before perform- remote from the generator exhaust. Operate the gen-
ing any maintenance on the generator. Allow erator only when safe dispersion of exhaust gases
the generator to cool before performing any can be assured, and monitor outside conditions to be
maintenance. sure that exhaust gases continue to be dispersed
safely.
• Do not use the generator as an emergency
power source to a general residential or
industrial utility line. This is illegal and Generator Cooling System
may cause shock or electrocution to power The generator is liquid cooled. The cooling sys-
line utility personnel attempting to repair tem includes a radiator, cooling fan, water
power lines.
pump, a coolant reservoir/recovery container,
and is similar to the automotive engine cooling
! WARNING system.
Check and maintain the coolant level at the
Do not place flammable material or store any other
materials in the generator compartment. coolant recovery container located on the front
of the generator.

! WARNING ! CAUTION
Do not operate the generator when parked in or near Do not check the coolant system at the radiator cap
high grass or brush. Exhaust component heat may when the generator is hot. Check the system at the
cause a fire. coolant recovery container only.

08-6
 Electrical Systems

Generator Slide-Out (If Equipped) A Time Zone indicator is provided for easy
changing of local time when traveling.
The generator may be mounted on a slide-out
cradle.
✓ NOTE
! WARNING
For detailed information on how to use the Automatic
Generator Start Control System see the Owner’s
Information Package.
Keep all obstacles and body parts clear of the gener-
ator and slide-out mechanism when extending or
retracting the generator.
Power Cord Reel (If Equipped)
Generator Maintenance The power cord reel allows you to conveniently
extend and retract the power cord (shore cord)
Refer to the generator manufacturer's informa- where 120-volt AC service is available. Your
tion in the Owner's Information Package for Owner’s Information Package contains detailed
details on generator operation and maintenance. operating and maintenance instructions concern-
ing this system.
Automatic Generator Start
Control System (If Equipped) ✓ NOTE
Do not cut or alter the cable in any way. Do not
The Automatic Generator Start Control System
remove the ground pin in the cable connector, or
(AGS) performs two distinct functions: defeat the ground circuit in the motor home.
1. Start the auxiliary generator automati-
cally in response to low battery voltage.
*The AGS continuously monitors the coach ELECTRICAL WIRING DIAGRAMS
battery system and will start the generator
Because of the many model, floor plans and
automatically if the voltage falls below
option variations available, it is beyond the
11.5 volts.
scope of this manual to include wiring dia-
2. Start the auxiliary generator automati- grams. In certain situations, specific wiring
cally in response to air conditioning diagrams may be available to help troubleshoot
requests. a problem. If you need specific wiring informa-
*The AGS continuously monitors the ther- tion, please contact your dealer. Complete
mostat of the air conditioning system and wiring diagrams are not available.
starts the auxiliary generator, if the temper-
ature rises to the preset level requiring MOTOR HOME FUSES AND
conditioning.
CIRCUIT BREAKERS
Main Features The 120-volt circuit breakers and 12-volt fuses
are located on separate panels. The purpose of
Easy to use push button operation controls all these panels is to provide electrical circuit
functions of the AGS. breakers and fuses to interrupt current flow if a
Time is indicated to the hour by an internal real circuit is overloaded. See the American Coach
time clock. Quiet time periods can be entered in Information section in this manual for the
hours to prevent automatic operation of the aux- locations of breaker and fuse panels used in
iliary generator during inappropriate times. your RV.
Hours may be set either for AM or PM.

08-7
This page intentionally blank.
 PROPANE SYSTEM

Propane is available from an approved storage the small outage valve (this also lets you check
container to operate your range, oven, furnace that the bottle is not overfilled) and note the
and water heater, and as an alternate energy odor described as garlic/rotten egg like for
source for some refrigerators. With proper han- future reference. A small number of people can-
dling precautions, Propane is safe and provides not smell this odor; if you are one of these you
modern conveniences wherever you travel. must take extra care whenever you use your
Propane is stored as a liquid under pressure and motor home.
vaporizes under the control of a pressure
regulator. Keep the tank valve closed and turn off all
appliances if the unit is not being used.
A typical Propane tank installation is illustrated
below. Although specific details of the system
may differ in your motor home, the major com-
! WARNING
ponents and their relationships will be similar to Propane is flammable and potentially explosive. Use
those shown. proper handling, lighting and ventilating procedures.
WARNING
IF YOU SMELL PROPANE:
1. Extinguish any open flames, pilot lights, and
9 all smoking materials.
1
2. Do not touch electrical switches.
8 3 3. Shut off the Propane supply at the container
7 valve(s) or Propane supply connection.
2
4. Open doors and other ventilation openings.
4
5. Leave the area until the odor clears.
6. Have the Propane system checked and leak-
5
age source corrected before using again.
FAILURE TO COMPLY COULD RESULT IN
6
EXPLOSION RESULTING IN DEATH OR SERIOUS
1. Propane tank 6. Propane hose INJURY.
2. Sight gauge 7. Outage valve 1. Never check for leaks with an open flame. Use an
3. Stop fill valve 8. Remote Fill Hose approved leak detection solution or a non-ammoni-
4. Main shut-off valve 9. Outage Hose ated, non-chlorinated soap solution only.
5. Regulator assembly 2. Always be careful when drilling holes or fastening
objects to the motor home. The Propane supply lines
could be punctured by a nail or screw.
PROPANE SAFETY PRECAUTIONS 3. Do not restrict access to Propane containers. In an
emergency, the container service valve must be eas-
Propane is a safe and reliable fuel. As with any ily identified and accessible. The container compart-
ment door must always be unlocked, and the Propane
other volatile and flammable material, common label should be visible.
sense dictates that Propane be handled and used
4. Do not carry or store filled or empty Propane con-
with respect and caution. Because Propane sys- tainers, including accessories such as Propane bar-
tems are so reliable, they are often taken for becues, in your motor home. Propane containers are
granted. Neglect can be a very dangerous habit. equipped with a safety device that relieves excessive
pressure by discharging Propane into the atmos-
If the system is maintained regularly, you can phere. Always store Propane containers outside with
expect almost trouble free operation. the valves closed and plugged.
5. Do not use any Propane container other than the
The first time you have your Propane tank filled, one furnished with your motor home without being
have the serviceman bleed a little Propane out of sure that all connecting components are compatible.

09-1
Propane System

SYSTEM COMPONENTS
! WARNING Hoses
6. Turn off Propane main valve before filling Propane The hoses used in your Propane system meet
container or entering an Propane bulk plant or motor stringent requirements, and are rated to with-
fuel service station. Turn off all pilot lights and appli-
ances individually before refueling of motor fuel tanks stand many times the pressures encountered in
and/or Propane containers. When not individually the system. Check the hoses for weather check-
turned off, automatic ignition appliances may continue ing or other signs of deterioration every time you
to spark when Propane is turned off at the container.
have the Propane tank filled or serviced. When
7. Do not fill Propane containers to more than 80%
capacity. Overfilling can result in uncontrolled
you replace hoses, be sure that replacements are
Propane flow which can cause fire and explosion. A properly rated and approved for RV use.
properly filled container holds about 80% of its vol-
ume as liquid. FAILURE TO COMPLY COULD
RESULT IN DEATH OR SERIOUS INJURY. Propane Regulator
8. Propane regulators must always be installed with The two-stage regulator produces approximately
the regulator vent facing downward. Regulators that
are not in compartments have been equipped with a 11 inches of water column (less than 0.5 psi) to
protective cover. Make sure that the regulator vent serve your appliances. Be sure the regulator vent
faces downward and that the cover is kept in place to stays clean and free from obstructions.
minimize vent blockage that could result in excessive
Propane pressure causing fire or explosion. The regulator is mounted so that the vent is fac-
9. Do not use a wrench or pliers to close the tank ing downward and is protected by a cover. Be
shut-off valve. This valve is designed to be closed by
hand. If a tool is required, the valve probably needs
sure the cover is on at all times. If the vent
repair or replacement. becomes clogged, it can be cleaned with a tooth-
10. If you do not have the special tools and training brush. If corrosion is evident, contact a qualified
necessary, do not attempt to repair Propane system Propane service technician for assistance.
components.

! WARNING
11. Motor homes stored in enclosed garages must be
well ventilated.
12. Do not modify or alter the Propane plumbing
system. Do not attempt to adjust the regulator. It has been
preset by the regulator manufacturer. If any adjust-
13. If any appliance or piping has been serviced, ment is required, it must be made by a qualified
ensure that a system leak check has been performed Propane service technician using special equipment.
by a trained technician. This should be verified before
taking delivery of the unit.by a trained technician. This
should be verified before taking delivery of the unit.
USING PROPANE SYSTEM AT
LOW TEMPERATURES
! WARNING Your Propane system will function at low tem-
peratures, provided the system components are
Propane cylinders shall not be placed or stored inside
the vehicle. Propane cylinders are equipped with kept at a temperature above the vapor point of
safety devices that relieve excessive pressure by dis- the Propane. Ask your Propane supplier or your
charging Propane to the atmosphere. motor home dealer for information on product
blends available in your area and the areas in
FAILURE TO COMPLY COULD RESULT IN DEATH which you will be traveling.
OR SERIOUS INJURY.
The following chart shows the reduction in
available BTU’s/hour under various fill levels as
the temperature drops:

09-2
 Propane System

20 LB. TANK* Keep the tank valve closed and turn off all
% FULL + 20° 0° -5° -10° -15° appliances if the unit is not being used.
60% 36,000 18,000 12,750 8,500 4,250
Always have the system checked by a profes-
50% 32,400 16,200 12,150 8,100 4,050 sional any time you detect a garlic/rotten egg
40% 28,800 14,400 11,400 7,600 3,800 like odor or hear a sustained hiss when you turn
30% 25,200 12,600 10,450 7,300 3,150 the Propane on.
20% 21,600 10,800 8,100 5,400 2,700
10% 16,200 8,100
*30 lb. Tank multiply x 1.40
6,075 4,050 2,025
! WARNING
Never check for leaks with an open flame. Do not
check copper and brass plumbing lines and fittings for
The chart clearly shows how the availability of the leaks using ammoniated or chlorinated house-hold
Propane is reduced at lower temperatures. With type detergents. These can cause cracks to form on
this in mind, keep your Propane tank as full as the line and brass fittings. If the leak cannot be located,
possible during cold weather. Check the BTU/hr take the unit to a Propane service representative.
rating plates on your Propane appliances. This
information will help you manage your Propane
usage. PROPANE LEAK
DETECTOR/ALARM
FILLING PROPANE TANKS
A permanently installed Propane leak detector/
To fill the chassis-mounted storage tank, drive alarm is located near the floor. The unit contains
the vehicle to an Propane supplier or a service an alarm that will sound alerting you to the
station which sells Propane. Do not attempt to
presence of low levels of potentially dangerous
fill the Propane tank yourself.
Propane that may have accumulated.

! WARNING The detector/alarm unit is powered by the 12-

volt DC system in your motor home. A green
Do not fill Propane containers to more than 80% light on the detector/alarm front panel indicates
capacity. Overfilling can result in uncontrolled Propane that the detector/alarm has power.
flow which can cause fire and explosion. A properly
filled container holds about 80% of its volume as liquid. Test the leak detector/alarm each time the motor
FAILURE TO COMPLY COULD RESULT IN DEATH home is relocated and set up for use. Detailed
OR SERIOUS INJURY.
information for the leak detector/alarm can be
found in the Owner’s Information Package.

! WARNING Testing Procedure:

1. Hold a butane-fueled pocket lighter near
Turn off Propane main valve before filling Propane
tank or entering a Propane bulk plant or motor fuel the sensor.
service station. Turn off all pilot lights and appliances 2. Open the lighter valve without striking a
individually before refueling of motor fuel tanks and/or
Propane containers. When not individually turned off, flame for 3 seconds.
automatic ignition appliances may continue to spark 3. The leak detector/alarm should respond
when Propane is turned off at the container.
within a few seconds.
4. Press the mute button to reset the alarm.
PROPANE SYSTEM CHECK
5. Lightly fan the area around the detector/
Do a visual check of all exposed piping and fit- alarm to insure complete dispersion of the
tings after you have arrived at a destination and Propane from the lighter, and to prevent
before you use the Propane system.
another sounding of the alarm.
09-3
Propane System

6. A mute button allows you to temporarily LIGHTING PROPANE APPLIANCES

quiet the alarm for 60 seconds after it has
been set off or after testing. Detailed operating information for the Propane
appliances can be found in your Owner’s
7. If the alarm does not sound during a test or Information Package. Please read and follow
if the green indicator light is not visible, these instructions.
see your dealer or an authorized Fleetwood
Dealer. There are no batteries or user Air trapped in the Propane lines may delay the
serviceable parts inside the unit. initial lighting of any appliance. It could take
several seconds or minutes for the Propane to
reach the appliance. To purge some of the air
! WARNING from the Propane system, first light a burner on
the range. The other appliances will then light
If your motor home is equipped with battery discon- more quickly.
nect devices, the Propane leak detector/alarm will not
function if battery disconnect(s) are OFF. The first time the furnace or oven is operated,
paints and oils used in its manufacture may gen-

✓ NOTE erate some smoke and fumes. If this occurs,

open doors and windows to air out the motor
The detector/alarm draws enough current to dis- home. These materials should burn off after the
charge your battery. Remember to turn off the chas-
sis and house battery disconnects if you are not using
first 15 to 20 minutes of appliance operation.
your motor home.
Always follow the appliance manufacturer’s
lighting, operating and maintenance instructions.

! WARNING
The Propane detector/alarm is powered by a 12 volt
source. Any interruption in power will render this
alarm inoperative. Always ensure power is applied
especially when appliances are in use.

09-4
 APPLIANCES

The appliances installed in your motor home are To bypass the water heater, turn the lever valve
tested and listed, and comply with standards vertical.
established by these organizations. All appliances
are covered by Fleetwood’s Ownercare Warranty To supply water heater with water, turn lever
program. Each appliance is also warranted by its horizontal.
manufacturer.

✓ NOTE
The individual appliance manuals included in your
Owner’s Information Package contain detailed oper-
ating and maintenance instructions. Always refer to
the respective manual for the appliance in question.

! WARNING
The water heater and furnace combustion air exhaust Water Heater Bypass Valve
ports may be hot when the water heater and furnace
are operating. Do not touch these outlets or allow any
material to come near the exhaust ports while operat- REFRIGERATOR
ing the water heater and/or furnace.
Read the operating instructions furnished in your
Owner’s Information Package. Before operating
WATER HEATER the refrigerator when the motor home is parked,
The water heater operates on Propane, or, if so make sure it is level. If it is not level, the refrig-
equipped, with 120-volt AC power, and is much erant will not circulate, cooling action will stop,
like the one in your home. It contains an auto- and the refrigeration system may be damaged.
matic shut off valve which stops the Propane
supply if the water temperature rises too high. The refrigerator uses the absorption principle of
operation. If you plan to cool food or drinks in
The water heater is reached through an access high outside temperatures, precool the food,
panel on the outside of the motor home. and, if possible, park the motor home with the
Turn on the hot water faucet at the galley sink. refrigerator vent door in the shade. Once the
If water flows continuously the heater is full. interior of the refrigerator is cool, the refrigera-
tion system will usually maintain this tempera-
ture. If the inside of the refrigerator is hot, the
! CAUTION food is not precooled, and the outside tempera-
ture is high, it will take longer for your food to
Do not light water heater until it is filled with water.
be cooled.

Water Heater Bypass Valve

2-STAGE FORCED AIR FURNACE
This valve is provided to cut off the flow of water
to the water heater. The water heater bypass valve The furnace is a forced-air unit fueled by
greatly reduces the quantity of antifreeze required Propane.. All furnaces are equipped with a wall
to winterize the water system. The valve is usu- thermostat for temperature setting.
ally located near the water heater. Consult with
The furnace will not operate properly if your
your dealer for the location for your particular
unit. stored personal items block the free flow of air at

10-1
Appliances

the registers or the return air to the furnace.

Storage under cabinets should be done carefully
so as to not crush or damage any furnace ducting.
! CAUTION
The Hydro-Hot’s Exhaust is HOT!
Smoke and fumes created as a result of burning DO NOT park in areas (i.e. dry, grassy fields) where
off manufacturing compounds are sometimes dry conditions exist underneath the vehicle, as a fire
present the first time the furnace is used. This is may result.
normal; however, when you light the furnace the DO NOT operate the Hydro-Hot inside an enclosed
building.
first time, open all windows and doors until the Operating the Hydro-Hot diesel burner or electric heat-
residues are completely burned off. ing element without the 50/50 solution of water and
antifreeze will cause serious damage to the heater.
Always follow the appliance manufacturer’s The heater must be shut OFF when refueling.
lighting and operating instructions.
If the furnace does not keep you comfortably
warm, NEVER use the range, oven or a catalytic ✓ NOTE
For more information on the Hydro-Hot System see
heater for supplementary heat — even with a Owner’s Information Package.
vent or window open.
Combustion air for the furnace comes from out- RANGE
side the RV. The products of combustion from
the furnace (carbon dioxide, carbon monoxide The Propane oven and burners are operated with
and other gases) are returned to the outside air. Propane. The basic operation is the same as the
range in your home.
This warning label has been located in the cook-
! WARNING ing area to remind you to provide an adequate
supply of fresh air for combustion. Unlike
Portable fuel-burning appliances are not safe for heat- homes, the amount of oxygen supply is limited
ing inside the motor home. Asphyxiation or carbon
monoxide poisoning can occur. due to the size of the recreational vehicle, and
proper ventilation when using the cooking appli-
ances(s) avoids dangers of asphyxiation. It is
HYDRO-HOT HYDRONIC especially important that cooking appliances not
HEATING SYSTEM (If Equipped) be used for comfort heating as the danger of
asphyxiation is greater when the appliances is
Your motor home may be equipped with a used for long periods of time. Refer to Lighting
Hydro-Hot Hydronic heating system. The Propane Appliances section in the Propane
Hydro-Hot Hydronic heating system is an on- System chapter of this manual.
board heating system that provides an on-demand,
continuous supply of domestic hot water, as well
as interior heat where and when it is needed. ! WARNING
Both heating features are accomplished by a
50,000 BTU diesel-fired burner and a 1650 watt It is not safe to use cooking appliances for comfort
electric heating element (120 volt/AC). These heating. Cooking appliances need fresh air for safe
two heating sources maintain the temperature of operation.
the Hydro-Hot’s 50/50 solution of water and Before operation:
antifreeze. In addition, the Hydro-Hot has been 1. Open overhead vent or turn on exhaust fan, and
designed to preheat the vehicle’s engine prior to 2. Open window.
FAILURE TO COMPLY COULD RESULT IN DEATH
starting. This feature provides easy engine start- OR SERIOUS INJURY.
up when cold weather conditions exist.
10-2
 Appliances

When you use the range oven for cooking or air conditioners use a large portion of your
baking, always open a vent or window to provide available electric power.
ventilation. Never operate the range or oven
when you are sleeping or if your alertness is Experience has shown that some RV parks may
impaired in any way. FAILURE TO COMPLY experience reduced power (low voltage) on days
COULD RESULT IN DEATH OR SERIOUS with high heat or humidity, commonly referred
INJURY. to as a “brown out.” This condition may result in
the air conditioner circuit breaker tripping in
your power distribution center. This protects
! WARNING your air conditioner motor from damage and is
necessary during low voltage conditions. This
Do not use open flames to warm the living area. Gas breaker tripping is sometimes perceived as a
combustion consumes the oxygen inside the motor fault in your motor home, but it is a necessary
home.
“safety valve.”

RANGE EXHAUST HOOD The heat pump feature will provide 5,600
BTU’s of warm air from the ceiling plenum.
The exhaust hood allows vapors and cooking
odors to escape, and may provide a vent for the
galley area. Switches for the fan and light are
located either on the range hood or the front of the ✓ NOTE
Your motor home is equipped with a ceiling-ducted air
microwave. The hood has grease filter screen(s)
conditioning system. For most efficient operation,
which require periodic cleaning. To clean, remove adjust each vent so that is completely open. If you
the screens and wash in soapy water. Rinse with change the vent opening to regulate air flow try not to
water and let the screens drain dry. restrict the vent opening to below 70% open.
Restricting air flow below this opening will affect the
If needed, replace the light bulb with an equiva- efficiency of the air conditioner.
lent type found on the bulb or listed in the appli-
ance owner’s manual.
VCR, TELEVISIONS, DVD PLAYER
AIR CONDITIONER WITH HEAT (If Equipped)
STRIP (If Equipped) All televisions, VCR and DVD players are set
The roof-mounted air conditioner(s) can operate up to operate on a 120-volt AC power source.
only when the motor home is connected to 120- This source can be from the generator, shore
volt AC power from either a public utility or the cord or inverter.
generator. Be sure the air conditioner circuit
breaker is ON. LCD TELEVISIONS (If Equipped)
Each return air duct is equipped with a filter. The LCD television is set-up to operate on a
Check these filters at regular intervals for accu- 120-volt AC power source. This source can be
mulations of dust that could restrict air flow. from the generator, shore cord or inverter. The
front LCD television will not operate while the
For best performance, park the motor home in
the shade and close curtains. Close doors and motor home is in motion because of a power
windows and set the thermostat for desired cool- lock-out feature.
ness. Refer to the air conditioner manufacturer’s
instructions for detailed operating and preven-
tive maintenance requirements. Remember that

10-3
Appliances

✓ NOTE
Do not operate the rear television while the vehicle is
TELEPHONE JACK
A telephone jack is conveniently located in the
in motion. Your Owner’s Information Package con- front under the dash on the passenger’s side and
tains detailed operating and maintenance instructions in various locations in the motor home. The
concerning this system.
park connection point is located near the rear on
the roadside sidewall.
WHOLE COACH SURGE
PROTECTION (If Equipped) MICROWAVE OVEN (If Equipped)
The whole coach surge protection unit is located The microwave oven is powered by 120-volt AC
under the bed base or power cord compartment. power and will only operate when connected. A
The system is set-up to protect the 120-volt AC wall receptacle for the microwave is located in
power source. This will include protection of the the overhead cabinet adjacent to the microwave
generator, shore power and the inverter. Your cabinet.
Owner’s Information Package contains detailed
operating and maintenance instructions concern-
ing this system. WASHER/DRYER-READY OPTION
If your RV is equipped with an electric dryer-
POWER TV ANTENNA (If Equipped) ready option, and if an electric dryer is installed
in the future by either you, your dealer or
The roof-mounted antenna is designed for
another appliance installer, the installation must
reception of VHF and UHF television signals.
comply with the following instructions:
1. The clothes dryer moisture-lint exhaust
! WARNING vent duct must not be connected to any
other duct, vent, or chimney.
Do not raise antenna near overhead electric wires as
contact may cause serious injury. 2. The exhaust duct must be of sufficient
length so as not to terminate beneath the
SATELLITE DISH ANTENNA recreation vehicle.
(If Equipped) 3. The exhaust duct must not be connected
The roof-mounted satellite dish antenna is with sheet metal screws or other fasteners
designed for reception of digital satellite televi- that extend into the interior of the duct.
sion signals. 4. The exhaust duct and termination fittings
must be installed in accordance with the
Before traveling, remember to lower the antenna appliance manufacturer’s printed
and secure it to prevent damage to the antenna, instructions.
motor home roof, or objects in the path of the
antenna, such as overhead wires. Do not travel
with the antenna raised. MISCELLANEOUS APPLIANCES
You may have additional appliances in your unit
SATELLITE RADIO (If Equipped) which operate only when connected to 120-volt
power from either a public utility or the generator.
The satellite radio is located in the dash. The
radio will require membership enrollment. Your In some cases, appliance selector switches are
Owner’s Information Package contains detailed provided in the galley to allow you to select com-
operating instructions concerning this system. binations of appliances yet still remain within the
power capacity of the electrical system.

10-4
 MAINTENANCE

Your motor home has been designed to provide waxed thoroughly, the surface can deteriorate
you with many years of use with a minimum rapidly. The following maintenance guidelines
amount of maintenance. This section will famil- can help you reduce these weathering effects:
iarize you with the areas of your motor home 1. When the motor home is not in use, keep
that require scheduled care. Time spent taking the fiberglass surfaces out of the sun or
care of your motor home on a regular basis will covered with a canvas tarpaulin. Avoid
pay for itself in extended service and will help using plastic or other nonporous materials
protect your investment. which can trap moisture between the cover
and the fiberglass surface.
If you are mechanically inclined and regularly
2. Wash the exterior with a mild soap. Avoid
perform routine maintenance and repairs on your strong alkaline cleaners and abrasives. For
car or truck, you may want to do the mechanical the best results, use a cleaner formulated for
work on your motor home yourself. If you pre- fiberglass, and follow the directions for using
fer, your dealer can perform these services for the cleaner. DO NOT use automatic dish-
you. His trained personnel will assure that your washer detergent, abrasives, bleaches,
motor home is maintained and repaired in keep- strong chemicals with acids/bases, or
ing with original performance expectations. ammonia.
This section is intended to provide the owner and 3. Wax the exterior at least once a year – twice,
if possible – with a wax formulated for fiber-
operator with a general overview of service and
glass. When waxing, always read and follow
maintenance information for the motor home. the instructions and precautions on the con-
Detailed service and maintenance information tainer. Some cleaners and waxes are recom-
may be found in the owner’s/operator’s manuals mended for use on only certain types of sur-
contained in the Owner’s Information Package. faces. As with automobiles, covered storage
yields best results for longevity of exterior
While the information in this section is intended
appearance and ease of maintenance.
to establish proper maintenance and inspection
procedures, there may be times when detailed 4. In some cases, a light rubbing compound,
diagnostic and repair procedures may be finishing material, or other product adver-
tised to restore fiberglass, may be required.
required. Consult your dealer or an authorized
Always follow the manufacturer’s instruc-
Fleetwood Dealer in these situations. tion. Always use a high quality wax after
treatment.
EXTERIOR
Some exterior parts of your motor home are Stains
made of fiberglass. The finish on these parts is Stains are generally caused by two types of
durable, but not indestructible. Any material and substances - water soluble and non-water solu-
finish will deteriorate in time. Exposure to sun- ble. Water soluble stains can usually be washed
light, moisture and airborne pollutants can cause away with water and mild detergent. Follow the
dulling and fading of the finish. Generally, washing with wax.
changes in the finish due to weathering are cos-
metic - they are on the surface of the part and do Non-water soluble stains are usually oil-based.
not affect its strength. Weathering can take the Removal of this type of stain may require the use
form of chalking, fading and yellowing. of highly flammable or poisonous solvents. Refer
this type of service an authorized Fleetwood
The best insurance against these effects is routine Dealer. Never use strong solvents or abrasives to
maintenance. If the finish is not washed and clean plastic surfaces.

11-1
Maintenance

Exterior Graphics Care clean. To better protect your RV's finish, wax
the area to be covered by your front end mask.
The pressure sensitive graphics installed on the
exterior surfaces of your motor home require little Windows, Doors, Vents, and Locks
maintenance and should be treated similarly to a
painted surface. Here are some guidelines to help Keep moving parts, hinges and latches adjusted
you keep your exterior graphics looking like new. and maintained. Lubricate with a light oil at
1. Wash your graphics with any mild car wash least once a year. Check and tighten the screws
soap solution. Be sure to rinse thoroughly. holding the windows in place as required. Clean
screens by gently wiping with a damp cloth or
2. Keep high-pressure wash nozzles at least soft flat brush. Not all screens are easily remov-
11 ⁄ 2 feet from the edge of the graphics. able, and can be destroyed and will probably
High pressure spray may cause the edge of have to be replaced.
the graphic to lift and peel away from the
wall surface. Inspect the sealants around doors and win-
3. Test any cleaning solution on a small sec- dows every three months. See Sealant
tion of the graphic before using the clean- Renewal section.
ing solution on a larger surface. Lubricate locksets in doors and exterior storage
4. Do not use any aromatic solvents such as compartments at least annually with powdered
acetone, MEK, toluene, paint thinner, lac- graphite. If the motor home is located at a beach
quer thinner on your graphics. Any solvent or is exposed to salt air, more frequent lubrica-
of this type may soften or smear colors. tion may be required.
5. Do not paint over the graphics with clear or
any other type of paint.
FIBERGLASS ROOF SYSTEM
6. Do not let gasoline or other fuels drip or
stay on graphics for any length of time. If a Cleaning
spill occurs, wipe off and rinse with water Your motor home is equipped with a fiberglass
immediately.
roof. For normal cleaning, standard household
7. Do not apply wax over graphics, especially detergents or cleansers may be used. Use a
if the wax contains any petroleum distil- nonabrasive, common household detergent and
lates. Wax that has dried between stripes plenty of water. Be sure to keep the sidewalls
can be removed by softening it with rub- wet to reduce streaking.
bing (isopropyl) alcohol and cotton swabs.
Be sure to rinse the area after cleaning. Care
8. Be careful when storing your motor home.
The graphic materials should be protected The fiberglass roof itself does not require annual
from prolonged direct sunlight and heat. coatings or additional sealants. Periodic washing
with soap and water is all that is required.
Vinyl Front End Mask Use caution when loading sharp articles on the
(If Equipped) roof. If you add accessories or new equipment
The front end vinyl mask must be removed peri- on the roof, be sure the installer is qualified to
odically. Paint damage may occur if the mask is work on the fiberglass roof material. This is
left on while wet for long periods of time. Never required under the terms of the warranty.
store your coach with the front end mask
attached. The mask is designed for use while Repair kits are available through your dealer.
traveling. Always keep your front end mask The roof requires special adhesives and material.

11-2
 Maintenance

moldings at front and rear caps, and perimeter

! WARNING molding. If any of the following defects are
evident during inspection, the affected areas
The fiberglass roof material is slippery when it is wet. must be resealed.
• Sealant cracked or peeling.
Sealant Renewal
• Void or missing sealant.
This section outlines the procedures you must If you find any of the above defects:
follow to maintain the weatherproof integrity of
your motor home. Leak damage caused by fail- 1. Clean all areas to be resealed with an
ure to inspect and maintain the roof, vents, appropriate cleaner and clean rags.
TV/satellite antenna and molding seals may 2. Make sure that all areas to be resealed are
affect your warranty coverage. absolutely dry before new sealant is applied.
The adhesives and sealants used in the construc-
tion of your motor home were developed to ✓ NOTE
remain waterproof under sustained effects of Do not seal the bottom flanges of windows and doors.
Special gaps in the sealant have been intentionally
weather and vibration. However, even the finest left in the bottom flange to provide drainage.
materials will eventually dry out and lose their
effectiveness.
INTERIOR
✓ NOTE
Failure to seal could cause serious damage and will
Fabrics
Interior appointments such as draperies, bed-
affect your warranty coverage.
spreads, mattress covers, upholstery and wall
pads are manufactured from high quality materi-
Your dealer can perform the resealing inspection als and should be dry cleaned only. Frequent
and work for you. Your dealer also has current vacuuming will keep them free of dust and dirt.
information on sealants used in your motor Minor spills should be cleaned up quickly to
home, and can recommend the appropriate avoid staining. The affected area should be blot-
sealants for you if you prefer to do this work ted, not rubbed, to prevent the stain from work-
yourself. Always use the recommended sealants. ing deeper into the fabric.

EXTERIOR SEALANTS
Consult your Fleetwood Motor Home dealer for ! WARNING
the most current sealant use. Do not use lacquer thinner, nail polish remover, carbon
Windshield tetrachloride, spot remover, gasoline, or naphtha for
any cleaning purpose. These products may cause
Window sealant damage to the material being cleaned, and may be
Roof sealant highly flammable or poisonous.

DOOR, WINDOW, ROOF Solid Surface Top Care (If Equipped)

COMPONENT AND MOLDING The counter top is constructed of a solid surface
RESEALING material that requires little care. Routine care
Inspect the sealants around windows, floors, involves wiping the surface with a damp cloth to
joints and doors at least every three months. remove water marks. For stains, wipe with soapy
Also inspect roof vents, other roof components, water or ammonia-based cleaners. Do not use
abrasive cleansers or steel wool.
11-3
Maintenance

Laminate Top Care (If Equipped) and similar tools are available in most hardware
stores and home improvement centers
For cleaning laminate surfaces, uses mild dish-
washing liquid with warm water. Use a soft When you install a component, carefully mark
cloth for both washing and drying. the hole location and drill a 3/16" hole where
the rivet is to be located.
Do not use abrasive cleaners, steel wool, or gritty
cleaners or damage will occur to the surface. If you need rivets, contact your Fleetwood
dealer.
Walls and Ceiling Panels
The paneling and the ceiling of your motor CAUTION
home may be any of several finishes and tex-
tures. Never use harsh detergents or abrasive Do not use any type of screw to attach items to the
interior or exterior walls of your motor home. If you
cleaners on walls or ceilings. Most surfaces will want to attach items to the walls, you must use
clean with a soft cloth moistened with mild liq- expanding head type rivets. Rivet quality, length, and
uid detergent in warm water, or a clear window grip range, will vary depending on item to be attached.
cleaner solution. Do not scrub the surface or use
large amounts of water which could saturate the
material. Simply spray or apply the solution to Plastic/Fiberglass Shower Stall
the spot and blot with a clean dry rag or paper Some cleaners attack the plastic causing it to
towel. Aggressive scrubbing may damage the discolor and become brittle. The following
texture or pattern. cleaners have been tested and approved when
mixed with water:
Attaching Accessories to • Distilled vinegar
Your Motor Home
• Mild dishwasher detergent
The sidewalls of your motor home are built with • Liquid deodorizing cleaner.
a dense fiber and polymer panel or rigid wood
panel used as a substrate to the exterior fiber- Avoid cleaners that contain any amount of abra-
glass or interior finish surface. sives, acetone or MEK (methyl ethyl ketone).
Structural members are located specifically to
mount and attach factory-installed components Floors and Carpeting
and accessories, and may not be located to
Vinyl flooring requires only washing and periodic
accommodate after-market accessories not
waxing. Vacuum carpeting regularly, and clean it
specifically designed for use on or in your
with a quality carpet cleaner. Do not use water or
motor home.
waxes mixed with water on the wood floor.
Exterior: Please consult with your dealer before
attempting to install or mount accessories on the Wood Floor (If Equipped)
sidewalls or roof of your motor home. Holes
drilled in the sidewall may cause damage, Floors are natural resting places for dust, dirt,
and may affect portions of your warranty. grit, and food spills. Dirt underfoot causes abra-
sions. Therefore, keep the floor clean and use
Interior: If you want to attach items to the inte- exterior walk off mats at the entry door, and:
rior walls, YOU MUST USE RIVETS. The • Immediately blot up spills or spots with a
rivets can be installed with a hand-operated tool damp cloth.
such as the Arrow E-Z Pull Model RH200. This

11-4
 Maintenance

• Periodically clean the floor with Anderson ACRYLIC ASSIST HANDLES

Quick Kleen. Follow the instructions on the (If Equipped)
container.
Do not use any cleaners that contain ammonia,
Your wood floor can be damaged by a number petroleum, ammonia based, or petroleum based
of things, including: products. Most glass cleaners are ammonia
• Water - Do not wet mop the wood floor based. Most tar removers are petroleum based.
• Oil soap or other waxes and polishes
• Ammonia cleaners Wash Assembly with MILD SOAP AND
WATER ONLY!
• High heel shoes

Tile Floor (If Equipped)

To clean tile areas, use a clean sponge/mop with
a mild detergent in hot water. Avoid abrasive
cleansers. Exterior
Engine Access
The top of the engine may be accessed from Interior
inside the motor home for service by lifting or
removing the engine cover.

! WARNING
The interior engine cover is heavy. Use care when
opening or closing the cover. WINDSHIELD WIPERS & WASHER
Your motor home is equipped with windshield
wipers that are located on the upper front cap.
! WARNING Having the proper windshield washer solution
will be an important step in maintaining your
When installing the engine cover, be sure the cover is
fully seated on the gasket seal and secured by the system in good operating order.
clamps. Do not allow insulation, carpeting, or other
material to interrupt the seal between the cover and
the engine compartment. If the engine cover is not
installed correctly, engine exhaust gases could leak
into the passenger compartment creating a safety
CAUTION
hazard. If the engine must be run with the engine Use only a windshield washer solution that is rated at
cover off for maintenance purposes, be sure the vehi- a minimum of - 20 degrees F (-8 deg C) to prevent
cle interior is adequately ventilated. damage to the system from freezing up.

GENERATOR FILTERS
Consult your Fleetwood Motor Home dealer or
see the GenSet Service and Parts Directory in
your Owner’s Information Package.
Oil Filter
Fuel Pump Filter
Element Fuel Filter
11-5
Maintenance

MAINTENANCE GUIDELINE sive miles driven. If you are a full-timer or using

your RV in severe climate conditions, follow the
While many RV owner’s use their RV for week- “full-timer/severe climate” scheduled mainte-
end and vacation travel, others may use their RV nance program, as outlines in your Fleetwood
full-time. Full-time use of an RV can consider- Owners Manual. By following this maintenance
ably affect its condition as well as maintenance schedule, you should be able to prolong the life
requirements. As long as you are not full-timing and enjoy your RV for many years to come.
or traveling under several climate conditions, the
normal maintenance guidelines that are outlined For your convenience, a maintenance guideline
in your Fleetwood Owner’s Manual will ensure is presented. Options and accessories usually
your RV will provide you many years of enjoy- have their own owner/user manuals that often
able use. Severe climates, either hot or cold, can contain maintenance instructions. Consult these
affect your seals, sealants, plumbing, Propane manuals as required. Modify any suggested
system, and cause internal condensation issues. maintenance schedule as use conditions or per-
Full-timing can cause extra wear and tear to your formance requires.
RV, simply from continuous usage and/or exten-

11-6
 Maintenance

A B C D E F G
Wash exterior ●
Wax exterior ▲ ●
Lubricate and adjust exterior locks, hinges,
roof vents, window mechanisms, etc. ▲ ●
Lubricate power step mechanism ●
Lubricate TV antenna ●
Check all exterior sealants, around windows, doors,
sidewall seams, windshield, lamps, all exterior ▲ ●
openings and roof components. Re-seal if necessary.

Inspect and clean fuel-fired appliance vents:

Water heater, refrigerator, furnace. ●
Inspect and clean water pump, water dispenser and
whole coach filters. ▲ ●
Inspect all hot, cold drain plumbing. ▲ ●
Inspect, test and service safety equipment,
fire extinguisher, Propane*, CO* and smoke* ●
detectors/alarms, and GFI receptacles.

Complete Propane pressure check and

system check ▲ ! !
Service appliances and equipment: refrigerator,
roof air conditioner, furnace, generator, etc. ●
Inspect generator exhaust system ●
Inspect Propane system components ●
Sanitize fresh water tank ●
Clean drapes and interior fabrics ●
Check exterior lamp operation ●
Check slide-out room function and sealing (if equipped) ●
Chassis (refer to chassis operator’s manual) ●
Inspect hydronic exhaust system ●
* Annual battery replacement for safety detectors/alarms is recommended regardless of battery condition.

Items marked with ! Require special equipment and/or qualified personnel.

A - Each Trip or Monthly E - Each Year
B - Weekly F - At Specified Mileage or Interval
C - Every 3 Months G - At Specified Mileage for Heavy Duty Service
D - Every 6 Months ▲ - Severe Climate and Full Time Usage

11-7
This page intentionally blank.
 STORAGE

STORAGE CHECKLISTS 11. Turn off Propane at tank valve.

12. Turn off refrigerator(s) and furnace(s).
The following checklists will help you perform
the steps necessary to prepare your motor home 13. Turn off range and oven burner valves and
for storage. Use the checklist that applies to the pilot valves (if equipped).
storage conditions you anticipate. 14. Remove all perishables from refrigerator
and galley cabinets. Block refrigerator
These checklists do not include every detail door(s) open to reduce odor buildup. An
required, and you may want to expand them to open box or tray of baking soda in the
suit your needs. Contact your dealer for addi- refrigerator will help absorb odors.
tional suggestions suitable to your climate and 15. Open closet doors, drawers, and cabinets so
storage conditions, particularly extremes of air can circulate.
hot and cold. 16. In warm or hot climates, slightly open
(suggested - 1 ⁄ 4") roof vents for ventilation.
Short-Term Storage In cold climates, close and cover all vents
(Less Than 60 Days) to prevent entry of snow, etc.
1. Wash the motor home exterior and under- 17. Close and lock all windows. Be sure vent
side. Hose off accumulations of mud and fan and range hood fan switches are off.
road salts. 18. Cover exterior appliance vents (water
2. Thoroughly clean the interior of the motor heater, furnace, range hood, refrigerator) to
home, including carpets, counter tops, lavy, prevent insects from getting in. Be sure to
tub and shower, and galley. remove all covering material before using
appliances or vents.
3. Inflate tires to maximum rated cold
pressure. 19. Cap or close holding tank drain, city water
inlet and fresh water fill spout.
4. Park the motor home as level as possible
front to rear and side to side. Block wheels 20. Turn off all radios, TVs, interior and exte-
front and rear. Put transmission in neutral rior lights.
and set the parking brake. 21. Close curtains and/or mini-blinds, and pull
5. Check the charge in the batteries. Recharge shades.
as necessary. 22. Disconnect and store the 120-volt power
cord.
6. Disconnect battery cables. Refer to Chassis
Operator’s Manual for proper removal and 23. Cover tires with cloth, plywood, or after-
installation sequence. Clean terminals, top market tire covers.
and sides of batteries and battery boxes. 24. Prepare generator. Refer to generator oper-
Reinstall cables, dress with a battery termi- ating manual included in your Owner’s
nal spray. Information Package.
7. Use battery disconnect switch/es, if 25. Run the engine for about 15 minutes every
equipped. 30 days. Turn the vehicle air conditioner
8. Drain black, gray and potable water tanks. ON during this run. Check engine oil,
transmission fluid and coolant levels.
9. Winterize, if appropriate. (See
26. Shut off the inverter to prevent battery dis-
Winterization section in this manual.)
charge
10. Turn off water pump and water heater
switches.
12-1
Storage

Long-Term Storage 9. During extended periods of storage, fuel may

(Over 60 Days) deteriorate due to oxidation. This can damage
rubber and other materials in the fuel system.
1. Perform all steps as required for short-term
It may also clog small orifices. Commercially
storage.
available fuel stabilizers should be added
2. Run chassis engine to normal operating whenever actual or expected storage periods
temperature. Operate automotive air condi- exceed 60 days. Follow the additive manfac-
tioner(s) to lubricate compressor seals. turer’s instructions. Operate the vehicle regu-
Drain engine oil, replace filter, refill engine larly during the storage period to mix and cir-
with fresh oil. culate the anti-oxidant agent throughout the
3. Remove windshield wiper blades and store fuel system.
inside the motor home. 10. Check tire inflation pressures every 30
4. Charge and remove both the chassis and days. Maintain maximum rated cold infla-
house battery(ies). Store in a cool, dry tion pressure.
place, and check the charge and water level 11. Check the sealant around all roof, floor and
every 30 days. If the specific gravity is body seams and windows. Reseal if neces-
being checked, recharge the battery when it sary. See Sealant Renewal section.
drops to 1.220. With the advent of com-
12. Lubricate all locks and hinges as described
puter controlled engine and transmission
in the Maintenance chapter.
management systems certain procedures
must be followed whenever the chassis bat- 13. Remove high grass or weed growth if
tery is disconnected or replaced. Please coach is parked on dirt.
refer to your Chassis Operator’s/Owner’s
Guide/Manual for any instructions sup- WINTERIZATION
plied by the chassis manufacturer with
respect to this subject. Thoughtful planning and preparation for the
winter season can help eliminate equipment fail-
ures and breakdowns, and can extend the life of
✓ NOTE
If your motor home is equipped with a solar battery
your motor home and its systems. Your dealer
can advise you concerning specific winterization
charger, it will trickle charge both house and chassis procedures and products for your climate area or
batteries. The battery disconnect switch must be ON
for the solar charger to charge the batteries. the areas through which you will be traveling.
Your dealer may also provide winterization
service for all appliances and systems in the
5. Remove, clean and replace roof air condi- motor home. The following is a check list if you
tioner filter(s). Cover the air conditioner prefer to perform these procedures yourself:
shroud(s).
1. Check engine coolant level and antifreeze
6. To help preserve the tires, park each tire on protection. Drain and flush engine cooling
a piece of plywood about 12 inches square. system and add antifreeze per the chassis
7. Cover the windows on the inside with foil, operator’s manual.
cardboard, paper, etc., to reduce curtain, 2. Service and winterize the generator as out-
drape, and carpet fading. lined in the generator operating manual
8. Remove batteries in battery-powered included in your Owner’s Information
devices. Package.

12-2
 Storage

3. Winterize the Propane system. Your 7. Flush the toilet. Operate toilet sprayer, if
Propane dealer or service station will per- equipped.
form this for you. 8. Drain the shower head by opening the
4. Winterize all appliances as outlined in the valve. Let all water drain out the tub spout.
individual operator’s manuals. Leave the valve open.
5. Remove snow accumulations as often as 9. When each faucet has been drained, close
possible. all faucets, water line drain valves and the
fresh water tank drain valve, install the
Water System Winterizing water heater plug and close the safety
valve.
Read this section completely before performing
10. Drain the waste water system by following
winterization.
the normal procedure for draining the hold-
ing tanks. (See Plumbing chapter).
! CAUTION 11. Apply silicone lubrication to the knife
Draining the water system alone will not provide ade-
valve actuator rod(s).
quate cold weather protection. If the motor home is to 12. Be sure ALL water from ALL plumbing
be unheated during below freezing temperatures,
consult your dealer for the best winterizing procedure
fixtures has been drained.
for your climate. Your dealer can winterize your motor 13. Close holding tank drain valves.
home for you or can supply you with one of the spe-
cial antifreezes which are safe and approved for use 14. Pour approximately five gallons of
in RV water systems. Follow the instructions fur- approved non-toxic antifreeze into the fresh
nished with the antifreeze.
water tank.
15. Turn the water pump master switch ON.
! WARNING 16. Open each water faucet, run the water
pump and let about a cup of antifreeze
Do not use automotive or windshield washer anti- solution flow continuously through each
freeze in the motor home water system. These solu-
tions may be harmful if swallowed. faucet. Close each water faucet.
17. Flush the toilet until the antifreeze solution
flows continuously. Release flush
1. Remove water filter cartridge, if equipped, mechanism.
and install the winterizing adapter.
18. Your vehicle is equipped with a water
2. Drain the fresh water tank by opening the heater bypass. Winterize the hot water lines
water tank drain valve. Close valve when by opening each hot water faucet, allowing
drained. antifreeze solution to flow continuously,
3. Turn water pump on (12-volt power must and then close each faucet. This will
be on). require considerably more antifreeze solu-
4. Open a cold water faucet. When the flow of tion, and you may choose to do this step
water stops, turn the pump off. before winterizing the cold water lines so
you can recycle the solution.
5. Open water faucets, then open the drain
valves on HOT and COLD water pipes.
Leave these valves open. ✓ NOTE
When filling the plumbing systems with antifreeze, be
6. Drain the water heater by opening the drain
sure to open and operate all fixtures and valves allow-
plug at the bottom of the heater and the ing the antifreeze solution to flow freely.
safety valve at the top.

12-3
Storage

19. Pour one cup of antifreeze solution down 1. Thoroughly inspect the outside of the vehi-
each drain. cle. Look for animal nests in wheel wells,
20. Install all protective caps: under the hood, in air cleaner or in other
Water tank fill out of the way places.
City water inlet cap 2. Remove all appliance vents, ceiling vent
Waste tank drain outlet cap and air conditioner coverings. Be sure all
furnace, water heater, and refrigerator
21. If your refrigerator is equipped with an ice
openings are clear and free of debris or
maker, winterize it as follows:
insect nests, webs, etc.
1. Shut off the water supply valve to the ice
3. Open all doors and compartments. Check
maker.
for animal or insect intrusion, water dam-
2. Place a shallow pan under the water age, or other deterioration.
solenoid valve.
4. Check all chassis fluid levels — engine oil,
3. Remove the inlet fitting to the ice maker engine coolant, power steering fluid, brake
water solenoid valve. Drain the water fluid, transmission fluid, rear axle oil.
from the supply line.
5. Check charge level in batteries. Refill and
4. Remove the plastic nut and water line recharge as necessary. Reinstall batteries if
from the outlet side of the water solenoid necessary. Be sure cable ends and terminals
valve. Drain water from the line. are clean and free of corrosion. Check
5. Cycle the ice maker several times while Chassis Operator’s/Owner’s Guide/Manual
blowing compressed air through the for any instructions on resetting chassis
water solenoid valve. Be sure all water is computer after battery is reinstalled.
out of the solenoid. NOTE: Your motor 6. Check tire pressures. Inflate to specified
home dealer can do this for you. cold pressure.
6. Reconnect and tighten the lines on the 7. Remove covering from inside windows.
solenoid valve. Leave the water supply
8. Open vents and windows for ventilation.
turned off until temperatures are above
32°F/0°C. 9. Be sure engine instruments indicate proper
readings. Run engine up to operating tem-
7. Dry out the ice maker mold assembly
perature. Shut engine down. Check all flu-
with a soft cloth. Place the bail arm to
ids. Top up if necessary.
the UP/OFF position.
10. During engine run, check the operation of
headlights, tail-lights, turn signals, backup
REACTIVATING THE MOTOR lights, clearance lights, license plate light,
HOME AFTER STORAGE emergency flashers. Operate the vehicle air
If the motor home was properly and carefully conditioner. If air conditioner does not
prepared for storage, taking it out of storage will work, or unusual sounds occur, have the
not be difficult. The following procedure check system checked by a qualified air condi-
list assumes that you stored the motor home tioner technician.
with care. If you didn’t, and extensive freeze 11. Drain, flush, and sanitize the fresh water
damage or other serious deterioration has system as outlined in the Plumbing chapter.
occurred, please consult an authorized 12. Install a new water filter cartridge (if
Fleetwood Dealer for advice. equipped).

12-4
 Storage

13. Operate all faucets and fixtures in the fresh 25. Operate each Propane appliance. Have the
water system. Check for leaks at all joints Propane regulator adjusted for proper pres-
and fittings. Repair if necessary making sure by a qualified technician.
sure the water heater bypass is open. 26. Inspect and clean the interior.
14. Check operation of 12-volt circuit breakers 27. Check the sealant around all roof, floor and
and inspect fuses. Replace as necessary. body seams and windows. Reseal if neces-
15. Operate all 12-volt lights and accessories. sary. See Sealant Renewal section.
16. Install new batteries in battery-operated 28. Lubricate all exterior locks, hinges, and
devices. Check operator’s manual for each latches.
device for any additional requirements. 29. Reinstall windshield wiper blades or remove
17. Test carbon monoxide, Propane and smoke protective covers. Check wiper/washer oper-
detectors/alarms. ation.
18. Check monitor panel operation. 30. Wash and wax the exterior. Inspect the
19. Operate vents and vent fans, including the body for scratches or other damage. Touch
range hood fan. up or repair as necessary. Flush the under-
side thoroughly.
20. Inspect the 120-volt electrical system –
inverter, power cord, converter, all outlets, 31. Run thorough operational checks of steer-
and any exposed wiring. If defects are ing, brakes, engine and transmission.
found, refer service to an authorized Operate vehicle slowly during these checks
Fleetwood Dealer. to allow sufficient circulation of fluids and
reseating of components.
21. Prepare the generator for operation follow-
ing instructions in the generator operating Your motor home should now be ready for a new
manual in your Owner’s Information traveling season. If you choose, your dealer can
Package. double check your preparation and repair any
22. Start and run generator. problems or make any necessary adjustments.
23. Operate 120-volt appliances and air condi-
tioner(s). Be sure to uncover air conditioner
shroud(s).
24. Inspect the Propane system and check for
leaks as described in the Propane System
chapter. If the Propane tank shows signs of
rust or corrosion, have it inspected by a
qualified Propane technician.

12-5
This page intentionally blank.
 GLOSSARY

AC Inverter - An electronic device that changes Dinghy - A motorized vehicle, such as an auto-
12-volt DC energy from the batteries to 120- mobile or truck towed behind a motor home
volt 60-cycle, AC energy to operate with all four tires on the ground.
microwave ovens, TVs, VCRs, or other appli-
Doorside - The right side of the motor home from
ances that require 120-volt 60-cycle power.
the driver’s point of view. So named because
Belted Seating Positions - These are seats with the main entry/exit door is on this side.
seat belts. Anyone riding in the motor home
FIN (Fleetwood Identification Number) - This
must use one of these seats any time the
is the number that identifies your motor home
motor home is in motion.
as a Fleetwood product. Use this number
Black Water Tank - The water tank in your when ordering parts or requesting warranty
plumbing system that is designed to contain service for your motor home.
waste water from the toilet ONLY.
GAWR (Gross Axle Weight Rating) - The maxi-
CCC (Cargo Carrying Capacity) - Is equal to mum permissible loaded weight a specific
GVWR minus each of the following: UVW, axle is designed to carry.
full fresh (potable) water weight (including
GCWR (Gross Combined Weight Rating) - The
water heater), full Propane weight and
value specified by the motor home manufac-
SCWR.
turer as the maximum allowable loaded
CAUTION - Any statement in this Owner’s weight of this motor home with its towed
Manual that, if not followed, could result in trailer or towed vehicle. Towing and braking
damage to the vehicle or components. capacities may be different. Refer to
Fleetwood and the chassis manufacturer’s
Chassis Operator’s/Owner’s Guide/Manual -
manuals for complete information.
This is the operating and maintenance manual
supplied by the chassis manufacturer. It is Gear Preselection - The selection of a lower gear
part of your Owner’s Information Package. It to match the driving conditions you encounter
contains information on operating and main- or expect to encounter. Preselection will give
taining the engine, transmission, drivetrain you better control on slick or icy roads and on
and other components of the motor home downgrades. Downshifting to lower gears
chassis. increases engine braking. The selection of a
lower gear often prevents cycling between a
Clearance Lights - This switch will flash the
gear and the next higher gear on a series of
clearance lights and is useful when signalling
short up-and-down grades.
other large vehicles when passing or being
passed. GFCI (Ground Fault Circuit Interrupter) - An
electrical device attached to the bathroom AC
DC Converter - An electronic device that
circuits that disconnect the outlet if a problem
changes 120-volt AC energy from the main occurs in the ground circuit.
power connection or the generator to 12-volt
DC energy to operate the 12-volt interior Gray Water Tank - The water tank in your
lights or other 12-volt DC appliances or plumbing system that is designed to contain
accessories. waste water from the sinks and shower drains
ONLY. No toilet wastes go into this tank.
Designated Seating Capacity (Canadian units
only) - The number of sleeping positions des-
ignated equals the seating capacity.

13-1
Glossary

GTW (Gross Towing Weight) - Is the maximum Park Cable - The F-style video connector that
loaded weight of a trailer or car this motor allows you to connect to an outside television
home, with equipped hitch, has been desig- signal source, such as the cable TV feed at an
nated to tow. GTW cannot be increased by RV park, or any other 75-ohm video source.
changing the trailer hitch. This connector usually carries an RF modu-
lated signal.
GVWR (Gross Vehicle Weight Rating) - Is the
maximum permissible weight of this fully Park/City Water Connection - The “garden-
loaded motor home. The GVWR is equal to or hose” style connector that allows you to con-
greater than the sum of the Unloaded Vehicle nect to an outside pressurized water source.
Weight plus the Cargo Carrying Capacity.
Power/Shore Cord - This is the main power
Hitch Rating - Means the maximum allowable cord coming into your motor home electrical
weight of a towed trailer or towed vehicle. system. You connect it to 120-volt AC power
The GCWR of the motor home must never be at a park or campsite.
exceeded, even if the weight of the towed
Roadside - The left side of the motor home
trailer or towed vehicle is less than the hitch
from the driver’s point of view. So named
rating.
because, at least in North America, the “road”
Monitor Panel - An electronic device that outside the vehicle is usually on this side.
allows you to conveniently measure the
SCWR (Sleeping Capacity Weight Rating) - Is
approximate levels in the fresh water, gray
the manufacturer’s designated number of
and black water tanks. You can also check the
sleeping positions multiplied by 154 pounds
charge in the battery/batteries.
(70 kilograms).
MTW (Maximum Tongue Weight) - Is the max-
MTW (Maximum Tongue Weight) - The maxi-
imum permissible downward force exerted on
mum permissible downward force exerted on
the hitch ball by the towed vehicle coupler.
the hitch ball by the towed vehicle coupler.
NOTE - A statement or instruction in this
UVW (Unloaded Vehicle Weight) - The weight
Owner’s Manual with information to help you
of the motor home, as built at the factory with
use the vehicle or equipment more efficiently,
full fuel, engine oil and coolants. The UVW
such as a tip.
does not include cargo, fresh water, Propane,
Owner’s Information Package - This is a pack- occupants or dealer installed accessories.
age of papers, manuals, warranty and instruc- Note: Canadian UVW includes designated
tion cards, and other material put together for seating, Propane and water.
you by Fleetwood. These materials contain
VIN (Vehicle Identification Number) - The
operating and maintenance instructions for
legal, 17-digit vehicle identification number
most of the components and appliances in
as shown on the vehicle registration certifi-
your motor home.
cate.
Ownercare Card - The card that has your name
WARNING - A statement or instruction in this
and vehicle ID (FIN) embossed on it. Use this
Owner’s Manual that, if not followed, could
card when you request or need warranty serv-
lead to personal injury or death.
ice. Please note that this is NOT a credit card.
You cannot purchase anything with it. It is used
only to identify you and your motor home.

13-2
 A S S O C I A T I O N
Celebrating Over 15 Years of Motor Home Adventures

Expand your use and enjoyment of your American Coach Motor Home.
Join the Organization built by hundreds of other owners like yourselves.
American Coach Association is an independent, member operated
organization limited to owners of American Coach motor homes.
Members can choose to join one or more of eleven local chapters located strategically throughout the
United States. Members of local chapters of the American Coach Association meet frequently for social and
recreational rallies in different and interesting locations.

Useful and interesting American Coach information is distributed bimonthly in the association’s magazine.
Subject material varies from important technical matters to fascinating travel destinations. Local chapter

magazine also includes information on the upcoming national and chapter rallies.

Association Chapters
• Great Lakes Chapter • Northeast Chapter
• Mac Pack Chapter • South Central Chapter
• Southeast Chapter • Southern California Chapter
• Northern California Chapter • Southwest Chapter
• Missouri Valley Chapter • Northwest Chapter
• Happy Wanderers Chapter

For contact information please refer to the American Coach Association website at:
w w w. a m e r i c a n c o a c h a s s o c . c o m

Come and see what’s new

from American Coach at the
next national rally.
 New Members Application
American Coach Chapter of FMCA

Carol Mayo, Membership Chair Chapter Web Site: www.americancoach-fmca.com

American Coach Chapter of FMCA Membership Chair: Phone 970-532-3476
23188 CR # 1 Membership e-mail: accmembers@aol.com
Berthoud, CO. 80513

Congratulations on your choice of an American Coach product. We are confident that you will enjoy it as much as
we have ours. To enhance your utilization and pleasure we invite you to join our organization. We are the only
American Coach Chapter of the Family Motor Coach Association.

FMCA is the foremost motor home organization in the world, and offers a large number of free or for-cost benefits.
Our Chapter meets to rally twice a year, immediately preceding each of the two International Motor home
Conventions held by FMCA

The American Coach Factory Service Team joins us at our Rally to perform repairs and service on our coaches.
One or more Dealers also join us to display the latest coaches, perhaps sell some, and to participate in fellowship.

To be eligible for membership in the American Coach Chapter, a person must first be a member in good
standing of the FMCA; and also own at least a one third interest in an American Coach Heritage, American
Coach Eagle, American Coach Dream, American Coach Tradition or a Limited Motor Coach.

Please fill out the form below and mail it and your check, or money order, to the address shown above. (All funds
are to be in US dollars) We will provide you with a Name Badge. Periodically, you will receive a Chapter
Newsletter, The America Way. We look forward to having you join us, and hope to see you at our next Rally.

Have you ever been a member of ACC? Yes_____NO______If yes, what was your member #__________________

Full Name (for database)_______________________________________________________________________

Co-Pilotʼs full name (for the data base)__________________________________________________________

First Name: _____________________________First Name: _____________________________

(For you name badge) (For your name badge)
Mailing Address: _______________________________________________________________

City: ____________________________________State: _________Zip: ___________________

Home Phone: ___________________________Cell Phone: _____________________________

2nd Cell Phone: ____________________________E-Mail:_______________________________

Coach:______________________ Year:____ Length of Coach:______# Slides:____

(Heritage, Eagle, Dream, Tradition, Limited)

ACC Member #:_________________ FMCA Member #: F______________________

(To be assigned) (FMCA Membership # is required before membership can be processed)

1st Year Dues $12.00 Make Check payable to:

Cost of 2 Name Badges $15.00 American Coach Chapter of FMCA
Mail to the above address
Total Due $27.00

WS
This page intentionally blank.
 Over one million families also call a
Fleetwood home.
Small, medium and large homes. From the desert to the sea.
Fleetwood is America’s home of choice. In addition to building America’s most popular
recreational vehicles, Fleetwood designs and builds factory-crafted homes with floorplans and design options to suit
your unique tastes and lifestyle. From 550–2,500 square feet, choosing to buy a Fleetwood home is easy. Choosing
which one is a little more challenging. ◆ A Fleetwood home is rivaled by no other factory-crafted home. But what
about homes built on site? Frankly, few are built as well as a Fleetwood home. Today, Fleetwood is one of the nation’s
largest builders of homes and recreational vehicles, having built and sold over one million homes. An accomplishment
earned one home at a time. One family at a time. We hope your next home will be a Fleetwood home.

CALL 1-877-4FLEETWOOD
FOR A PARTICIPATING RETAILER NEAR YOU
OR CLICK ON: www.fleetwoodhomes.com

3200 Myers Street, P.O. Box 7638

Riverside, California 92513-7638
MANUFACTURING PLANTS:

FLEETWOOD MOTOR HOMES OF CALIFORNIA, INC.

P.O. Box 1549
Riverside, California 92502
(951) 788-2920

FLEETWOOD MOTOR HOMES OF PENNSYLVANIA, INC.

Route 487, R.F.D. #1, P.O. Drawer 5
Paxinos, Pennsylvania 17860
(570) 644-0817

FLEETWOOD MOTOR HOMES OF INDIANA, INC.

1031 U.S. 224 East, P.O. Box 31
Decatur, Indiana 46733
(260) 728-2121

SERVICE CONTACT:

AMERICAN COACH OWNER RELATIONS

P.O. Box 1008
Decatur, IN 46733
(800) 435-7345
Notes
Notes