Fifth Wheel Owner s Manual. Model Year

Transcription

1 Fifth Wheel Owner s Manual Model Year

2 WARNING: Read all instructions in this manual and component manufacturer supplied information before using your RV. This manual has been provided by Jayco, Inc. for the sole purpose of providing instructions concerning the operation and maintenance of this vehicle and its components. Nothing in this manual creates any warranty, either expressed or implied. The only warranty offered by Jayco, Inc. is as set forth in the limited warranty applicable to this vehicle. The owner s failure to provide required service and/or maintenance could result in the loss of warranty. The owner should review Jayco s limited warranty and the limited warranties that apply to specific components that are offered with this vehicle. Instructions are included in the manual for operating various components which are optional on some vehicles. In addition, the owner should refer to individual manufacturer s operating instructions contained in the owner s packet Jayco, Inc. LITHO USA 01/09**09-1 Part #

3 TABLE OF CONTENTS SECTION 1 WARRANTY & SERVICE About This Manual...1 The Warranty Packet...1 Safety Alerts...1 Reporting Safety Defects...2 In the United States...2 In Canada...2 Manufacturing Process...2 Customer Responsibility...2 Dealer Responsibility...3 Suggestions for Obtaining Service...3 Customer Relations...4 Obtaining Emergency Warranty Repair...4 Obtaining Weekend or after business hours repair assistance...5 Obtaining Service for Separately Warranted Items...5 Obtaining Service at Entegra Coach...5 Replacement Parts...5 Customer First Roadside Assistance...5 Second Owner...6 Customer Information Update Form...7 Legacy Limited Warranty...8 SECTION 2 OCCUPANT SAFETY Using the Internet...12 Emergency Weather Planning...12 Repairing severe weather damage...12 Emergency Egress Window...12 Fire Safety...13 Fire Extinguisher...13 Operation...13 Disposal...14 Smoke Alarm...14 How to test...14 Battery replacement...14 Maintenance...15 Carbon Monoxide Alarm...15 How to test...16 Battery replacement...16 Maintenance...16 I

4 TABLE OF CONTENTS Propane Alarm Testing the propane alarm RV storage Fuel Safety Security SECTION 3 ELECTRICAL SYSTEM Electrical System Precautions In Case of an Electrical Fire /120-volt AC System Circuit Breaker Panel Replacing a circuit breaker amp Power Cord Connecting the Power Cord Maintenance Converter Maintenance GFCI Receptacle Outlet Testing the GFCI outlets Exterior electrical receptacle Calculating Electrical Load Generator Exhaust gas fumes Generator prep volt DC System volt Battery Disconnect Tow Vehicle Battery Isolator Auxiliary Battery Dry camping Maintenance Replacement Solar Panel volt Fuse Panel Replacing a fuse Inverter volt DC Outlet SECTION 4 PROPANE SYSTEM Propane Safety Precautions Leak Testing the Propane System II

5 TABLE OF CONTENTS DOT Propane Cylinder...30 Servicing or filling...30 Installing a Propane Cylinder...31 Propane Container Overfill...32 Inspection and maintenance...32 Propane cylinder recertification...33 Propane Regulator...33 Hoses, Pipes, Tubes & Fittings...33 Using the Propane System...34 Calculating Propane Usage...34 Traveling with Propane...35 SECTION 5 PLUMBING SYSTEMS Plumbing System Maintenance...37 Universal Docking Center...37 Monitor Panel...37 Operation...38 Pump switch...38 Heater switch...38 Maintenance...38 City Water Fill...38 Hooking up to city water...39 To disconnect...39 Water Purification System...39 Replacing the water filter cartridge...39 Water filter bypass...39 Fresh Water Holding Tank...40 Filling the fresh water tank using city water...40 To disconnect...40 Filling the fresh water tank using the country fill...40 To disconnect volt Water Pump & Switches...41 Dry camping...41 Maintenance...41 Water Heater...41 Odor from the hot water system...42 High altitude duration...42 Pressure & temperature relief valve...43 Anode rod protection...43 Maintenance...44 Draining the water heater...44 Water heater bypass...44 III

6 TABLE OF CONTENTS Faucets Maintenance Sink Bathroom Shower or Tub Maintenance Outside Shower Draining the Fresh Water System Sanitizing the Fresh Water System Winterizing the Fresh Water System Black/Grey Water System Drain pipes Vents Toilet With Hand Sprayer Maintenance Black/Grey Water Holding Tanks Sewage (black) tank preparation Waste (grey) tank preparation Black Tank & Grey Tank Termination Valves Maintenance Sewer Hose & Attachments To attach the sewer hose Black Tank Rinse SECTION 6 PRE-TRAVEL INFORMATION Tow Vehicle Vehicle Identification Number (VIN) Explained Vehicle Labels Weight Labels Fifth Wheel Hitch (Customer Supplied) Pin box height RV Brake System Tow vehicle battery Brake Controller (customer supplied) Loading Your RV Weighing Your Tow Vehicle & RV How to weigh your tow vehicle & RV To determine the wheel position weight First Short Trip Pre-Travel Checklist RV Departure Checklist IV

7 TABLE OF CONTENTS SECTION 7 TOWING & HANDLING RV Driving Schools & Seminars...61 Driving & Alcohol...62 Breakaway Switch way Trailer Plug...62 Trailer plug storage compartment...62 Trailer end of the 7-way plug...63 Tow vehicle end of the 7-way plug...63 Maintenance...63 MOR/ryde Pin Box System...63 Fifth Wheel Landing Gear...64 To extend the power FW landing legs...64 To retract the power FW landing legs...65 Manual operation...65 Maintenance...65 Stabilizer Jacks...65 Power rear stabilizer jacks...65 Manual rear stabilizer jacks...66 Fifth Wheel Hitching Procedure...66 Hitching your FW...66 Unhitching your FW...67 Vehicle Clearance...67 Towing...67 Turning corners...68 Backing up...68 Backup Camera System...68 Towing Behind your RV...68 Choosing a transmission signal...69 Parking...69 Emergency Stopping...70 Emergency Towing...70 Wheel Lug Nuts...70 RV Tires...71 Replacement...71 Spare Tire Carrier...72 To lower the spare tire...72 Stowing the spare tire...72 Maintenance...73 Changing the Tire...73 V

8 TABLE OF CONTENTS SECTION 8 CAMPING & OPERATING Extended Dry Camping Cold Weather Usage Condensation To reduce condensation Keys Entrance Door Power Slide Out System Master lockout switch Slide out room control switch Slide out room control box Hide-A-Bed Sofa With Air Mattress HAB storage drawer Free-Standing Table & Chairs Dinette chairs w/ flip up storage Glider/Rocker Recliner Chair Furniture transit & storage TV Flip Up Storage Audio/Visual Interior System TV Power Booster TV Antenna & Cable Raising the TV antenna Lowering the TV antenna Satellite Dish Exterior Cable & Satellite Jacks Exterior TV Connections & Speakers Central Vacuum Washer/Dryer Washer/dryer prep Safe-Lock Box Refrigerator Door latch Maintenance Icemaker Winterization Cooking with Propane Kitchen Stove, Range or Oven Stove (or range) Bi-fold range cover Oven Range Hood With Exhaust Fan In Case of a Grease Fire VI

9 TABLE OF CONTENTS Microwave Oven...86 Microwave convection oven...86 Lazy Susan...86 Pantry...86 Ducting & Return Air volt Ventilation Fan...87 Rain sensor option...87 Maintenance...87 Thermostat...87 Maintenance...87 Air Conditioner...88 Low voltage...88 Heat pump...88 A/C prep...88 Maintenance...88 Furnace...89 Maintenance...89 Fireplace...90 Ceiling Fan...90 Patio Awnings...90 Emergency override...90 Maintenance...91 Slide Room Awnings...91 Bike Rack...92 Bike Rack With Cargo Tray...92 Departing Camp Checklist...92 Safety...92 SECTION 9 STORAGE & MAINTENANCE Formaldehyde...95 Cleaning the Interior...95 Furniture Upholstery...96 Fabric...96 Suede Upholstery...96 Vinyl Upholstery...96 Décor Items...96 Window treatments & curtains...96 Décor glass & mirrors...96 Mattress...96 ABS Plastics...96 Paneling...96 Cabinetry & Tables...96 VII

10 TABLE OF CONTENTS Countertops To prevent permanent damage...97 Flooring Carpet Vinyl flooring Replacing Light Bulbs Cleaning the Exterior Foreign material Washing During cold weather Waxing your RV Polishing your RV Damaged paint Cleaning plastic parts Chrome parts Stone guard Decals Replacing a decal Windows Doors & Locks Roof Ladder Rubber Roof Exterior Roof & Sidewall Vents Sealants Inspecting the sealants Replacement sealant Undercarriage Axle with E-Z Lube Shackle Bolts Wheel Bearings Wheel Shock Absorbers Storage Checklist Prior to storage During storage period Maintenance Checklist Prior to first trip First 200 miles Each trip After every tire change Daily Weekly Monthly Every three months or 3,000 miles VIII

11 TABLE OF CONTENTS Every six months or 6,000 miles Every year or 12,000 miles Every five years SECTION 10 SPECIFICATIONS & GLOSSARY Vendor List Wheel Lug Torque Chart Approximate Electrical Load Ratings Propane Consumption Chart Audio/Visual Setup Spare Tire Carrier Diagrams Glossary of Terms INDEX IX

12 TABLE OF CONTENTS Membership in Jayco Travel Club is open to owners of all RV brands manufactured by Jayco Mfg. Inc. The purpose of the Jayco Travel Club is to promote family camping and to meet others with similar interests in the RV lifestyle. By belonging to Jayco Travel Club you will find new ways to enjoy your RV and make friends all across the country. For more information please visit or call (800) or (574) ext. 45. NOTES X

13 SECTION 1 WARRANTY & SERVICE Congratulations! Thank you for selecting a Jayco distributed RV*. We are excited to welcome you to our growing RV family. We are committed to being the most respected name in RVs. We invite you to drop by our manufacturing facility. To book a group tour or check scheduled factory tour times (free admission, closed holidays) please call RV-JAYCO. *Entegra Coach is the final stage assembler of the RV. Entegra Coach, Inc. manufactured the RV and provides the warranty. Jayco offers no warranty, express or implied and hereby disclaims all warranties. ABOUT THIS MANUAL This manual is a guide to the operation and maintenance of your RV. Our RVs are available in several sizes and models, and accessories and components may differ. This manual includes manufacturing standards and options available at the time of publication approval. This manual may not specify if a feature described is a standard or option. Some equipment described may not apply to your RV. If you find the components vary significantly from what is described, contact your selling dealer to ensure you have the correct information. Nothing in this manual creates any warranty, either expressed or implied, nor does it cover every possible detail of equipment, standard or option, installed on or in your RV. Information, illustrations and specifications in this manual reflect the most current available at the time of publication approval, are subject to change and not intended to indicate actual size. THE WARRANTY PACKET The Warranty Packet contains original equipment manufacturer (OEM, also referred to as vendor) operator manuals, warranty cards and registrations. This manual and the Warranty Packet should be considered a permanent part of the RV. If this recreation vehicle is sold, they should remain with the RV for the next owner. SAFETY ALERTS Your safety, and the safety of others, is very important. To help you make informed decisions, we have provided operating procedures and other information on safety labels affixed to your RV and in this manual. Please call your dealer or Entegra Customer Service if you are unsure how to proceed. Always use the appropriate safety gear when servicing or maintaining your RV. This is the safety alert symbol. It is used to alert you to potential personal injury hazards. Obey all safety messages that follow this symbol to avoid possible injury or death. This indicates an imminently hazardous situation which, if not avoided, will result in death or serious injury. This indicates a potentially hazardous situation which, if not avoided, will result in death or serious injury. This indicates a potentially hazardous situation which, if not avoided, will result in minor or moderate injury. This indicates a potentially hazardous situation which, if not avoided, may result in property damage. 1

14 SECTION 1 WARRANTY & SERVICE REPORTING SAFETY DEFECTS In the United States If you believe that your RV has an alleged defect that could cause a crash or cause injury or death, you should immediately inform the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) and Entegra Coach, Inc. If NHTSA receives similar complaints, it may open an investigation, and if it finds that a safety defect exists in a group of vehicles it may order a recall and remedy campaign. However, NHTSA cannot become involved in individual problems between you, your dealer or Entegra Coach, Inc. For additional information, please refer to the NHTSA website at To contact NHTSA by phone: Call the Office of Defects Investigation (ODI) vehicle safety hotline at and a representative will record your complaint information (TTY: or ). To contact NHTSA by mail: U. S. Department of Transportation National Highway Traffic Safety Administration Office of Defects Investigations Correspondence Research Division (NVS- 216) Room W New Jersey Avenue S.E. Washington, DC In Canada If you believe that your RV has an alleged defect that could cause a crash or cause injury or death, you should immediately inform Transport Canada and Entegra Coach, Inc. If Transport Canada receives similar complaints, it may open an investigation, and if it finds that a safety defect exists in a group of vehicles it may order a recall and remedy campaign. However, Transport Canada cannot become involved in individual problems between you, your dealer or Entegra Coach, Inc. Transport Canada prefers to be called instead of posted mail or as it enables their investigators to confirm that your information is correct, and to answer your questions accurately. For additional information, please refer to the Transport Canada website at To contact Transport Canada by phone: Call (or if you are calling from the Ottawa region or from another country) and ask to speak to a defect investigator. To contact Transport Canada by mail: Road Safety and Motor Vehicle Regulation Directorate Transport Canada Tower C, Place de Ville 330 Sparks Street Ottawa, Ontario K1A 0N5 MANUFACTURING PROCESS Entegra Coach recreation vehicles are manufactured for use as temporary living quarters for recreation, camping and travel uses, all as defined by the bylaws of the Recreation Vehicle Industry Association (RVIA). Figure 1 RVIA decal This recreation vehicle is not intended for use as a fulltime residence or for commercial use. Commercial use means using the RV as a business asset such as a mobile office or using the RV for lease or rental purposes. Entegra Coach reserves the right to discontinue or change specifications or design at any time without notice and without incurring any obligation whatsoever. RV s built for sale in Canada may differ to conform to Canadian Codes. CUSTOMER RESPONSIBILITY It is important you read and understand the information in this manual and your Warranty Packet before using your RV. You are responsible to complete and mail the vendor warranty cards and registrations within the prescribed time limits to avoid loss of warranty coverage 2

15 SECTION 1 WARRANTY & SERVICE (your selling dealer can assist you in locating any required component model or serial numbers). You must ensure the procedures for obtaining warranty repair are followed properly. It is your responsibility and obligation to return your RV to your selling dealer for warranty service repair. As the owner of the RV, you are responsible for regular and proper maintenance performed in accordance with this manual and the vendor manuals. Regular and proper maintenance will help prevent conditions arising from neglect that are not warrantable. As with your other personal belongings, it is important to protect yourself and others with insurance coverage. Your insurance agent can assist you in obtaining the appropriate insurance coverage for personal liability, theft, collision, property damage, etc. DEALER RESPONSIBILITY At the time of sale of the new RV, your selling dealer is expected to: Deliver your recreation vehicle in the best condition possible. Your RV must pass the dealer s pre-delivery inspection (PDI), including all systems tests. Provide you with orientation of the RV, its systems, components and operation. Ensure you receive the Warranty Packet. Your selling dealer can assist you in completing the vendor warranty cards or registrations, and locate any required component model or serial numbers. Request that you read all warranty information and explain any provision not clearly understood. Complete and return the Warranty Registration and Customer Delivery Form to Entegra Coach within 10 days of delivery to activate the applicable warranty coverage. The Legacy Limited Warranty is activated only after Entegra Coach receives a signed and dated Warranty Registration and Customer Delivery Form from your selling dealer. SUGGESTIONS FOR OBTAINING SERVICE The independent dealers authorized to sell Entegra Coach RVs are also there to provide service after the sale. We work closely with them in an effort to keep you satisfied. To help ensure your dealer provides the level of service you expect, here are some suggestions we would like to make: Contact your dealer at once Do not wait until you are ready to use your RV. Your dealer may not be able to service it immediately and/or the repair may require parts be ordered. The dealer s service department is busiest on Mondays, Fridays and before the holidays. Prepare for the appointment If you are having warranty work performed, be sure to have the right papers with you. Take your warranty folder and have your vehicle information available. Not all the work to be performed may be covered by the warranty; discuss additional charges with the dealer s service management. Prepare a list Provide your dealer with a written list of specific repairs needed. It is important that you provide any vehicle repair history to the dealer s service manager. Keep a maintenance log of your RV service history. This can often provide a clue to the current issue. Be reasonable with your requests If you leave a list with several items and you need your RV returned back by a specific time, discuss the situation with the dealer s service management and list your items in order of priority. This may include making a second appointment for work not completed or parts that the dealer may need to order. Don t expect to look over the technician s shoulder Please do not be offended if you 3

16 SECTION 1 WARRANTY & SERVICE are told you cannot watch the work being done. Some insurance requirements forbid admission of customers to the service area. Inspect the work performed Finally, check out the service or repair job when you pick up your RV. Notify the dealer s service management immediately of any dissatisfaction. If you cannot return your RV immediately for repair, make an appointment as soon as possible. Please be aware that all repair businesses require notification of any issues with their repairs within a specified time limit. Make sure you are familiar with your dealer or RV repair center s repair policies. CUSTOMER RELATIONS Entegra Coach has empowered its dealers to make warranty and repair decisions. If a special circumstance occurs that requires information from Entegra Coach, we have asked your dealer s service management to make the contact on your behalf. This is why you should always talk to your dealer s service management first. Most issues arise from misunderstandings about warranty or service needs. We recognize that, on some occasions, you will not be totally satisfied with a dealer s decision or actions. If this is the case, you should write or call Entegra Customer Service. Our hours are Monday Friday, 8:00 a.m. 5:00 p.m. EST-Indiana (closed holidays). Please be prepared to provide the following information: Your name, location and phone number Your RV 17-digit VIN Your date of purchase A detailed description of the concern If applicable, the vendor component description, including model number and serial number Mailing address Shipping address Entegra Coach, Inc. Entegra Coach, Inc. Customer Service Customer Service P.O. Box Bontrager Drive 903 S. Main Street Bldg 42 Door 4220 Middlebury IN Middlebury IN Phone (toll-free) (877) service@entegracoach.com Website OBTAINING EMERGENCY WARRANTY REPAIR A roadside emergency can happen at any time, whether your RV is new or old. If you are traveling, using the following guidelines can help get you back on the road faster. 1. Call Entegra Customer Service to find an authorized dealer in your area. Contact them for an appointment; they will handle all warranty repair billing and returned parts for you. 2. If you cannot locate an authorized dealer near you, ask the campground staff for referrals or check the local telephone yellow pages. Or contact Entegra Customer Service or your selling dealer for assistance in locating a repair facility. a. Contact the RV repair facility to discuss your situation and make an appointment. Ask how their billing will be handled. They may choose to bill Entegra Coach directly; otherwise, you are expected to pay them. b. Have the RV repair facility inspect your RV. Either they or you must call Entegra Customer Service to discuss applicable warranty coverage prior to any repair work being performed. c. Entegra Customer Service will issue an authorization number upon warranty repair approval and advise if any original parts need to be returned. d. Once Entegra Customer Service has issued an authorization number, the RV repair facility may begin actual repair to your RV. e. Inspect the completed repair work thoroughly. If you are not satisfied, communicate that immediately to the RV repair facility management. Make sure you are satisfied with the repair before you pay or leave the premises. 4

17 SECTION 1 WARRANTY & SERVICE f. For reimbursement, either you or the RV repair facility must send a copy of your itemized repair bill and all requested return parts by UPS (regular ground, freight pre-paid) within 60 days of the completed repair date. To expedite processing your warranty claim, include your name, address, phone number, RV 17-digit VIN and authorization number. If returning parts, include a copy of your return freight bill. Obtaining weekend or after business hours repair assistance If an authorized dealer is not located nearby, contact your selling dealer for assistance. If your dealer is closed, check with the campground staff or telephone yellow pages for an RV repair facility. Have the item repaired and contact Entegra Customer Service immediately the following business day. Failure to contact Entegra Customer Service, unauthorized or improper warranty repairs, or failure to return requested original parts may result in loss of reimbursements and/or loss of warranty. OBTAINING SERVICE FOR SEPARATELY WARRANTED ITEMS Your selling dealer is responsible for servicing your RV before delivery, and has an interest in your continued satisfaction. We recommend your dealer perform all inspection, warranty and maintenance services. Some dealers may be authorized service centers for those vendors whose products are warranted separately and excluded from the Legacy Limited Warranty. OBTAINING SERVICE AT ENTEGRA COACH Should your RV be in need of service, and your dealer recommend that the repairs be made at the Entegra Factory Service Center, your RV may be returned to us with the following guidelines*: You or your dealer must make a confirmed appointment a minimum of 60 days prior to dropping off your RV at the Entegra Factory Service Center. The holding tanks must be emptied and rinsed. We have a dumping station available for customer use. The propane system and all electrical systems must be shut down and turned off. We are not responsible for discharged batteries or propane tanks. During the appropriate season, please ensure your RV is winterized. Unless prior approval has been obtained from the Entegra Factory Service Center, all personal items must be removed from the area where you are requesting service repair and the refrigerator emptied. We are not responsible for loss of food items. You are responsible for all transportation costs. You may need to arrange for alternative accommodations for some types of repairs. Please be prepared accordingly. *Entegra Customer Service occasionally utilizes local independent repair facilities. Your RV may be referred to or repaired by one of these local repair facilities. REPLACEMENT PARTS Entegra Coach does not sell parts retail direct. Replacement parts can be ordered and purchased from an authorized dealer. If an original part is no longer available, we will try to provide an appropriate substitute. CUSTOMER FIRST ROADSIDE ASSISTANCE Entegra Coach has teamed up with Coach- Net to offer 24/7 motorist assistance. We are offering this free of charge for the first year of ownership (certain restrictions apply*). You may continue your roadside assistance benefits in the following years by contacting Coach-Net to discuss terms and rates for this independently continued coverage. 5

18 SECTION 1 WARRANTY & SERVICE For details on accessing your roadside assistance benefits, please refer to your Member Benefit Guide that is sent out 6-8 weeks after your completed Warranty Registration and Customer Delivery Form is received by Entegra Coach, or contact Coach-Net at toll-free ( *To qualify for coverage, your RV must be eligible as set forth under the terms of the Legacy Limited Warranty. SECOND OWNER Unlike the used car trade, purchasing a previously owned RV can often be a good deal because of the low mileage and minimal use. However, if you do become the second (or third) owner of a resold RV, there are a few things you should remember to do. First and foremost, register your purchase with Entegra Customer Service. Copy and complete the following Contact Information Update Form. Mail or fax it to Entegra Customer Service. Technical bulletins and notices regarding the RV are sent directly to the last known owner on file. Replace the tires. It is virtually impossible to determine how well the previous owner cared for this very important item. Inaccurate air pressures, improper storage and rough roadways can all contribute to tire wear that is not easily detected through visual inspection. Put new tires of identical size and brand as the original factory installed tires on all axles at the same time. Inspect the batteries. Like tires, battery life is also dependent on the maintenance schedule. Remove corrosion from around the battery cases and cables. Fill liquid lead acid battery cells with distilled water. Fully charge the battery bank and then using a battery hydrometer, test each cell of liquid lead acid batteries. Low electrolyte readings in any cell will drag down the rest of the battery bank. Replace the battery bank all at one time. Lubricate and inspect the suspension system. Refer to the vendor manuals for lubrication points and guidelines. Keep record of the lubrication schedule in a maintenance logbook. Give the electrical system a thorough going over. Examine the shore cord connection. Have your dealer replace any frayed wiring or loose connections. If the RV is equipped with a transfer switch, remove the cover and tighten screws that may have loosened from road vibration. Check for discoloration and loose connections. Doublecheck the ground bar as well. Just one loose connection can cause electrical and safety problems. Clean the filters in the roof air conditioning system. Remove the A/C vent to access filters. Wash the filters in mild soap and thoroughly rinse. Allow the filters to dry before reinstalling them back into the ceiling vent. While the filters are out, look over the connections to see if anything appears out of place. Check wiring to the furnace, water heater and refrigerator. Clean the outside compartments to remove dust and debris. Run the systems before heading off down the road to assure they are in working order. Disinfect (sanitize) the fresh water holding tank. Inspect the sewer hose and tighten clamps. Replace the hose if it appears worn or damaged. Contact your dealer for a service appointment if you are not comfortable or qualified to perform these suggested repairs. If you have any questions, contact your selling dealer for assistance. 6

19 SECTION 1 WARRANTY & SERVICE ATTENTION! PLEASE PRINT OR TYPE Notice of: Check applicable block(s): CHANGE OF ADDRESS CHANGE OF OWNERSHIP* TOTALED DESTROYED STOLEN Federal record keeping laws require that we maintain a file of owners of our RVs. This form must be completed by the RV owner in the case of change of address, stolen or destroyed RV, and by the RV purchaser in the case of change of ownership. Thank you! Your cooperation in mailing a copy of this completed form to Entegra Coach is appreciated. NOTICE OF CHANGE OF ADDRESS 1 Vehicle Identification Number/Serial Number 2 Owner Name 3 Former Street Address 4 Former City ST/PR ZIP Code/Postal Code 5 Former Country Former Phone Number 6 New Street Address 7 New City ST/PR ZIP Code/Postal Code 8 New Country New Phone Number 9 Your Date of Purchase Owner 10 Current Vehicle Mileage (motorized only) NOTICE OF CHANGE OF OWNERSHIP* 1 Vehicle Identification Number/Serial Number 2 Seller Name 3 Seller Street Address 4 Seller City ST/PR ZIP Code/Postal Code 5 Seller Country Seller Phone Number 6 Seller Date of Purchase Seller 7 Buyer Name 8 Buyer Street Address 9 Buyer City ST/PR ZIP Code/Postal Code 10 Buyer Country Buyer Phone Number 11 Buyer Date of Purchase Buyer 12 Current Vehicle Mileage (motorized only) NOTICE OF STOLEN OR DESTOYED RV 1 Vehicle Identification Number/Serial Number 2 Owner Name 3 Owner Street Address 4 Owner City ST/PR ZIP Code/Postal Code 5 Owner Country Owner Phone Number 6 Owner PLEASE SIGN AND DATE: DATE SIGNATURE OF OWNER SIGNATURE OF CO-OWNER PLEASE MAIL YOUR COMPLETED FORM TO: Entegra Coach, Inc. Customer Service P.O. Box 460 Middlebury IN Phone: (877) toll-free * Please include proof of purchase (i.e., copy of the bill of sale, copy of your insurance policy, etc.). 7

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22 10 SECTION 1 WARRANTY & SERVICE

23 SECTION 2 OCCUPANT SAFETY Camping is a great way to enjoy the outdoors with your family and friends. By following the proper precautions and planning, you can help insure a safe, enjoyable and trouble-free trip. We encourage you to develop a family safety plan in case of an emergency or severe weather condition, and practice it with your entire family, especially children. Ask an out-of-state relative or friend to serve as the "family contact." Make sure everyone knows the name, address, phone number and of the contact person. Draw a floor plan of your RV and find two ways to exit. There should be one way to get out of your RV without opening the door. Conduct safety drills at least every six months to make sure everyone, including guests, knows what to do to escape safely. Practice evacuating the RV blindfolded; in a real fire situation, the amount of smoke generated may make it impossible to see. Teach everyone what the RV safety alarm signals mean and how to be prepared to leave the RV by themselves if necessary. Individuals with medical problems, or who are hard of hearing, should consider purchasing additional warning devices that provide both audible and visual signals. Teach how to check doors and not to open them if the doors are hot. Teach everyone to stay low to try to avoid breathing smoke, fumes or gases. In case family members are separated from one another, have a plan for getting back together. Decide on a meeting place a safe distance from your RV and make sure everyone understands to wait there. Make sure everyone knows where to go to call the fire department or 911 from outside the RV. Familiarize yourself with the following weather terms: Warning - Indicates that a particular weather hazard is either imminent or has been reported. A warning indicates the need to take action to protect life and property. Move to a safe location immediately. The type of hazard is reflected in the type of warning (i.e., tornado warning, blizzard warning, etc.). Watch - Indicates a particular hazard is possible and that conditions are more favorable than usual for its occurrence. A watch is a recommendation for planning, preparation and increased awareness (i.e., to be alert for changing weather, listen for further information and think about what to do if the danger materializes). Pets may not be allowed into shelters for health and space reasons. Prepare an emergency plan for pets that includes at least a 3-day supply of dry food and a large container of water. The survival of a beloved pet or valuable livestock will often depend on the plans that its owner has made in advance. To research more information on emergency preparedness for you and your family, contact your local fire department or government officials. In the United States, also include: American Red Cross ( National Fire Protection Association ( Firstgov.gov ( Ready.gov ( This RV is not a life support system. It can stop without warning. Children, persons with physical or mental limitations, and pets could suffer personal injury or death. A personal attendant, redundant power or an alarm system must be used if RV operation is critical. 11

24 SECTION 2 OCCUPANT SAFETY USING THE INTERNET The Internet offers tremendous resources and learning opportunities, but it also contains a great deal of information that may be neither helpful nor reliable. During your research, use a wide variety of information resources. Check, question and verify what is online. It is important to distinguish fact from opinion. The internet links referenced in this manual are not under the control of Entegra Coach and Entegra Coach is not responsible for the contents of any linked website or any link contained in a linked website, or any changes or updates to such websites. Entegra Coach is not responsible for webcasting or any other form of transmission received from any linked website. Entegra Coach is providing these internet links to you only as a convenience, and the inclusion of any internet link does not imply endorsement by Entegra Coach of the website or the website s owners (or their products/services). EMERGENCY WEATHER PLANNING During severe weather conditions move indoors to a place of safety or shelter as directed by the campground or appropriate authorities. Avoid trees or power lines that could fall on your vehicle. The safest place during severe weather conditions is inside a basement or storm shelter, not an RV or tow vehicle. One of the more serious conditions you need to take into account when camping is that of the weather, which is subject to change with little or no warning. Earthquakes, hail, flooding, hurricanes, wintry weather, tornadoes - these and other extreme weather conditions can threaten your safety and damage your tow vehicle or RV. Local radio and TV stations normally broadcast weather conditions and warnings as they occur. Research other methods of learning about severe weather conditions and how to deal with them. You may want to consider investing in a weather radio. Weather radios offer 24 hour-a-day VHF broadcasts of weather observations and forecasts directly from the US National Weather Service. The frequencies used by the US National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) weather radio stations are , , , , , or megahertz or visit their website at Repairing severe weather damage If your tow vehicle or RV becomes a victim of severe weather damage, you will most likely need repair work. Call your insurance company as soon as you can to report your claim. EMERGENCY EGRESS WINDOW The emergency egress window is designed to allow quick exit from the RV during an emergency if access to the main entrance door is not available. Practice opening the egress window before an emergency occurs, and make sure all occupants know how to operate it. Do not remove the following label from your RV: Figure 1 Exit window decal When pulling into your campsite, make sure your egress is not blocked by trees or other obstacles. Verify the area below the window is over solid ground that can be used as an escape path. 12

25 SECTION 2 OCCUPANT SAFETY FIRE SAFETY At best, a fire in your RV can delay or ruin a vacation; at worst, it can mean injury, financial loss, and even death. If a fire starts, execute your family safety plan. Make sure everyone knows to stop, drop to the ground and roll back and forth, shielding their face from the fire with their hands, if their clothes catch fire. Do not store combustible materials in closed areas or near a heat source. Do not attempt to use water to put out a grease fire. Water can spread some types of fire and create an electrocution hazard during an electrical fire. Campfires Learn and teach safe fire practices. Check with the campground staff or local fire department to see if campfires are permissible where you are camping. Build campfires away from nearby trees or bushes. Maintain at least a three-foot clear area free of leaves, dry grass, pine needles, etc., around grills, campfires and/or tents. Supervise children at all times when campfires are burning or grills are in use. Always have a way to extinguish the campfire quickly and completely. Never leave a fire even a cigarette burning unattended. Due to potential pests and diseases (i.e., gypsy moths, oak wilt, and the emerald ash borer, etc.) which pose a serious threat to trees, some areas now prohibit bringing in your own firewood. In the United States, check the state s DNR webpage for the area you are planning camp, or ask if you can bring in your own firewood when making your camping reservations. FIRE EXTINGUISHER The Underwriter Laboratories (UL) classify household fire extinguishers into four types. The factory-installed dry chemical fire extinguisher is suitable for extinguishing small fires of the Class B and Class C type. Rating Type A Intended use For use on fires involving combustible materials such as wood, cloth and paper. Type B For use on flammable liquid fires, including kitchen grease. Never use water on this type of fire! Type C Type ABC Operation For use in fires involving energized electrical equipment. Works on all three types of fires listed above. Avoid inhaling the dry chemical agent in the fire extinguisher. It is not toxic, but may cause skin irritation. In case of contact, flush the affected area with clean, cool water. If irritation persists, contact a physician immediately. Teach family members how to use the fire extinguisher and replace it as recommended. A portable fire extinguisher can save lives and property by putting out a small fire or containing it until the fire department arrives; but portable extinguishers have limitations. It is important to recognize when to leave the RV. Because fire grows and spreads so rapidly, the number one priority is to get out safely. Keep your back to a clear exit when you use the fire extinguisher so you can make an easy escape if the fire cannot be controlled. There are different types and sizes of fire extinguishers, but for the most part they all work the same way. To operate a fire extinguisher, remember the word PASS. 13

26 SECTION 2 OCCUPANT SAFETY Pull the pin. Hold the extinguisher with the nozzle pointing away from you, and release the locking mechanism. Aim low. Point the extinguisher at the base of the fire. Squeeze the lever slowly and evenly. Sweep the nozzle from side-to-side until the fire is out. Disposal Contact your local fire department, sanitation department or environmental protection department to find out what your local laws stipulate before disposing of your used (nonrefillable) factory-installed dry chemical fire extinguisher. SMOKE ALARM Three of the most common fire safety issues are smoking in bed, leaving children unattended and cleaning with flammable fluids. There is no way to guarantee against injury or loss of life in a fire; however, the smoke alarm is intended to help reduce those risks. Proper use and care of your smoke alarm may Figure 2 Typical smoke alarm save your life. Smoke alarms can only work if they are properly located, installed, operational and maintained and if smoke reaches them. They are not foolproof. The factory-installed ceiling mounted smoke alarm is operational once the 9-volt battery is correctly connected. The LED will flash to show the battery is supplying power to the alarm. The smoke alarm will not function if the battery is missing, disconnected, dead, the wrong type of battery is used or the battery is installed incorrectly. When the product of combustion is sensed, the smoke alarm sounds a loud alarm that continues until the air is cleared. If the smoke alarm sounds, execute your family safety plan immediately. Always call the fire department, no matter how small the fire. However, be aware that if a fire threatens your RV, you should not place the call to your emergency services from inside the RV. It is better to get out first and place the call from somewhere else. If you feel a fire was caused by product failure, contact Entegra Customer Service at (877) for approval before you clean any debris, enter, move or repair your RV (failure to notify Entegra Coach may result in loss of coverage). How to test Figure 3 Test smoke alarm Stand at arm's length from the smoke alarm when testing. The alarm horn is loud and may be harmful to your hearing. The test button will accurately test all functions. Never use an open flame from a match or lighter to test the smoke alarm; you may ignite and set fire to the smoke alarm and your RV. If the smoke alarm does not test properly, replace it immediately. Battery replacement When the battery becomes weak, the smoke alarm will "beep" (the low battery warning). If 14

27 SECTION 2 OCCUPANT SAFETY the low battery warning sounds, the battery MUST be replaced. Never disconnect the battery to silence the smoke alarm. Maintenance Clean the outside casing occasionally with a soft dry cloth. Ensure that the alarm sensor is not blocked with dirt and dust. DO NOT USE CLEANING AGENTS, BLEACH OR POLISH. CARBON MONOXIDE ALARM If you are in a RV with either a nearby vehicle engine or generator running, there is a potential for exhaust fumes to filter back into your RV. Avoid inhaling exhaust gases (they contain carbon monoxide, which is a potentially toxic gas that is colorless and odorless). Actuation of this alarm may indicate the presence of carbon monoxide that can KILL YOU. This alarm will only indicate the presence of carbon monoxide gas at the sensor. Carbon monoxide gas may be present in other areas. Carbon monoxide (CO) is an insidious poison. It is a colorless, odorless and tasteless gas produced by the incomplete combustion of the fossil fuels. It is important to have good ventilation, maintain all appliances regularly and have a functioning carbon monoxide alarm. Early symptoms of carbon monoxide poisoning are often mistaken for the flu because the deadly gas goes undetected. Prolonged exposure can lead to brain damage and even death. Many cases of reported carbon monoxide poisoning indicate while victims are aware they are not well, they become so disoriented they are unable to save themselves by either exiting the RV or calling for assistance. Young children and household pets may be the first affected. The following symptoms are related to carbon monoxide poisoning and should be discussed with all members of the household: Mild exposure - Slight headache, nausea, vomiting, fatigue (often described as "flulike" symptoms). Medium exposure - Throbbing headaches, drowsiness, confusion, fast heart rate. Extreme exposure - Convulsions, unconsciousness, heart and lung failure. Exposure to carbon monoxide can cause brain damage, death. The CO alarm is designed to detect the toxic carbon monoxide fumes that result from incomplete combustion, such as those emitted from appliances, furnaces, fireplaces and auto exhaust. A CO alarm is NOT A SUBSTITUTE for other combustible gas, fire or smoke alarms. There are hazards against which carbon monoxide detection may not be effective, such as natural gas leaks or explosions. The CO alarm is operational once the 9-volt battery is correctly connected. The CO alarm will not function if Figure 4 Typical CO alarm the batteries are missing, disconnected, dead, the wrong type of battery is used or the batteries are installed incorrectly. The CO alarm will automatically sense when the level of carbon monoxide in the air reaches dangerous levels. You should stay outside the RV in fresh air until the CO alarm is silenced. If the CO alarm sounds, do not stand too close to it. The sound produced by the CO alarm is loud because it is designed to wake a person in an emergency. Prolonged exposure to the CO alarm at a close distance may be harmful to your hearing. 15

28 SECTION 2 OCCUPANT SAFETY Operate the RESET/SILENCE button. Immediately move to fresh air (outdoors or by an open door or window) and execute your family safety plan. Do not re-enter the premises. If you are unable to exit the premises do not move away from the open door or window until the emergency service responders have arrived, the premises have been aired out and your CO alarm remains in its normal condition. If your CO alarm reactivates within a 24-hour period, repeat steps 1-3 and call a qualified appliance technician to investigate for sources of carbon monoxide from fuel burning equipment and appliances, and inspect for proper operation of this equipment. If problems are identified during this inspection, have the CO alarm replaced immediately. Note any combustion equipment not inspected by the technician. Make sure that any motor vehicle is not and has not been operating in an attached garage or adjacent to your RV. How to test Test the alarm after each storage period, before each trip and at least once per week during use of the RV. Press and hold the test/reset button on the front of the CO alarm for several seconds. If the CO alarm does not test properly, replace it immediately. Battery replacement When the batteries become weak, the CO alarm will "beep" (the low battery warning). If the low battery warning sounds, the batteries MUST be replaced. Never disconnect the batteries to silence the CO alarm. Maintenance Clean the outside casing occasionally with a soft dry cloth. Ensure that the CO alarm sensor is not blocked with dirt and dust. DO NOT USE CLEANING AGENTS, BLEACH OR POLISH. PROPANE ALARM For your safety protection, a new RV that contains a propane gas system with propane consuming appliances must have a propane leak detection device. Generally speaking, the chemical composition of propane is heavier than air which is why the propane alarm is located near the floor of an RV. Your RV propane alarm is powered by 12-volt DC through the converter when plugged into Figure 5 Typical propane alarm shoreline power (or from a fully charged, working auxiliary battery when dry camping). A lit LED indicates when the factory-installed alarm is active. This alarm is designed to sense the presence of propane gas; however, there are other combustible fumes or vapors that may be detected by the sensor including (but not limited to) acetone, alcohol, butane and gasoline. These chemicals can be found in commonly used items such as deodorants, colognes, perfumes, adhesives, lacquer, kerosene, glues, wine, liquor, most cleaning agents and the propellants of aerosol cans. High temperatures can activate glue and adhesive vapors. If you close up your RV on a hot day, the chemicals used in its construction may be detected for months after the vehicle was constructed (see Formaldehyde). The alarm cannot detect propane or sound a warning for two minutes after it has been turned on. The propane alarm is not a smoke or fire alarm. The alarm will only indicate the presence of propane gas at the sensor. Explosive gas may be present in other areas. 16

29 SECTION 2 OCCUPANT SAFETY If the alarm sounds: Turn off all propane appliances (i.e., stove, water heater, furnace, refrigerator etc.). Do not touch any electrical switch or use any phone or radio in the RV. Immediately move to fresh air (outdoors or by an open door or window) and execute your family safety plan. Shut OFF the propane cylinder main shut off valve. Do not start any vehicle engine or generator. Determine and repair the source of the leak. Do not re-enter the RV until the problem is corrected. The propane alarm should never be disabled because of nuisance or low battery alarms. If the auxiliary battery cable is disconnected, and other 12-volt power is not available, the propane alarm will not work and you will not be warned if leaking propane is present. If the propane alarm keeps sounding at regular intervals, a propane leak may be present. Contact your dealer or propane gas service to have the problem corrected before using the propane system again. Testing the propane alarm Test the alarm after each storage period, before each trip and at least once per week during use of the RV. If the propane alarm does not test properly, replace it immediately. RV storage This propane alarm is continuously drawing a small amount of 12-volt current. Although this current draw is slight, it could drain your auxiliary battery during extended storage periods. If the auxiliary battery becomes extremely drained, the LED light on the face of the alarm will not light or the alarm may begin to sound on its own. (This condition is not likely to occur except during storage situations.) FUEL SAFETY Automotive fuels can cause serious injury or death if misused or mishandled. FAILURE TO COMPLY WITH FUEL SAFETY RECOMMENDATIONS COULD RESULT IN FIRE, DEATH OR SERIOUS INJURY. For your protection and others, it is critical to understand the danger associated with fuel. Take time to become educated about the property of fuel and use it safely. By nature, fuel is highly volatile and flammable. It also gives off vapors, which can ignite. Keep gasoline out of children's sight and reach. Children should never handle gasoline. Avoid prolonged or repeated skin contact with fuel. Wash skin thoroughly with soap and water in case of contact. If you spill fuel on your clothing, always soak the affected area with water BEFORE you remove the clothing. Static electricity caused when you remove clothes could ignite clothing. Remove any clothing that is wet with fuel and allow the fuel to evaporate completely outdoors before washing. Thoroughly clean the affected clothing before reuse. Before refueling, extinguish all smoking materials and any open flames. Always shut OFF the tow vehicle engine while refueling. Always turn OFF all spark producing appliances (i.e., stoves, water heaters, furnaces, refrigerators, etc.). Use caution when fueling. Do not get in and out of the automobile when fueling. Although rare, an electrical charge on your body could spark a fire, especially during the dry winter months. 17

30 SECTION 2 OCCUPANT SAFETY Do not overfill your fuel tank(s). The pressure in an overfilled fuel tank may cause leakage and lead to fuel spray and/or fire. If you spill fuel on the RV, clean it up immediately and discard your clean-up materials properly. Fuel can dull or soften paint and damage other surfaces. Report fuel spills in accordance with local and federal safety regulations. If you have spilled fuel at the campground, onto your yard or into a water supply call the local authorities to let them know. Only fill portable gasoline containers outdoors. Place the container on the ground before filling and never fill containers inside a vehicle or in the bed of a pick-up truck. If fire does start while handling gasoline, do not attempt to extinguish the fire or stop the flow of gasoline. Leave the area immediately, and call for help. Do not use or store gasoline near possible ignition sources (i.e., electrical devices, oil- or gas-fired appliances, or any other device that contains a pilot flame or a spark). Store gasoline outside the RV in a tightly closed metal or plastic container approved by an independent testing laboratory or the local or state fire authorities. Never store gasoline in glass containers or nonreusable plastic containers (i.e., milk jugs). Do not bring or store fuel or other flammable liquids inside the RV as a fire or explosion may result. Store only enough gasoline necessary to power equipment and let machinery cool before refueling it. Never use gasoline inside the RV or as a cleaning agent. Do not smoke when handling gasoline. Never use gasoline in place of kerosene. Follow all manufacturers instructions when using electronic devices (those with batteries or connected to an electrical outlet) near gasoline. Never restart an engine or re-light any pilot lights while raw fuel is present. SECURITY Take the necessary steps to safeguard the RV, all cargo, and yourself, while out on the road. Store cargo and lock bay doors before retiring for the night. Close blinds after dark and refrain from opening the entry door unless you know who is standing outside. Stow valuables out of sight. When key remotes are equipped with a panic button, keep the keys within easy reach to use as a quick way to summon help. Security is also important when the RV is in storage. Keep the RV and all cargo bays and windows locked while in storage. Engage the door lock and dead bolt. Do not leave behind personal valuables or financial information. Sometimes even the best intentions will not keep thieves away. Maintain a current list of RV possessions for insurance purposes. You may want to include documenting items using photographs or video. Be alert and aware of the surroundings. Do not disclose travel plans to strangers. If campground activity looks suspicious, pack up and leave. 18

31 SECTION 3 ELECTRICAL SYSTEM 50 AMP Your RV contains separate low voltage (12- volt DC) and high voltage (240/120-volt AC) electrical systems. You must have a 120-volt AC (VAC) power source if you are going to use the microwave, roof air conditioner, the refrigerator in the electric mode and the 120- volt electrical outlets. For the most part everything else in the RV works off of 12-volt DC (VDC) power. If you look at the RV power distribution panel you will see circuit breakers like you have in your house for the 120 VAC side, and automotive style blade fuses for the 12 VDC side. Because the wiring and circuitry is engineered by Entegra Coach into a dedicated system specific to your RV, we recommend you do not make unauthorized changes or add fixed appliances yourself. Only a qualified RV technician should attempt to make changes or additions to the electrical system. Approved materials, components and methods of installation must be used to meet safety and code requirements. Changes or additions made to your RV may create a hazardous condition and/or result in loss of warranty coverage. ELECTRICAL SYSTEM PRECAUTIONS Careless handling of electrical components can be fatal. Always take the appropriate safety precautions when working around the RV electrical system. Always make sure the electrical components are turned OFF before disconnecting the battery negative cable. Always unplug the 50-amp power cord and disconnect the negative battery cable before working around the RV electrical system. Never work around batteries with an open flame. Vapors from the batteries can ignite, causing serious damage. Remove your rings, metal watchbands and any other metal jewelry before working around the RV electrical system Use caution when using metal tools around the RV electrical system. If a tool contacts a battery terminal or metal connected to it, a short circuit could occur which could cause personal injury, explosion or fire. Never touch or use electrical components with bare feet, wet hands or while standing in water or on wet ground. NEVER allow children to play with the electrical system or components. IN CASE OF AN ELECTRICAL FIRE Do not attempt to use water to put out an electrical fire. Water can spread some types of fire, and electrocution is possible with an electrical fire. 1. Execute your family safety plan. 2. After everyone is clear and accounted for, if possible: a. Disconnect the 50-amp power cord from the external power source. b. Disconnect the auxiliary battery cables. c. If applicable, turn OFF the generator. 3. Check the fire to see if you can attempt to put it out with the fire extinguisher. If there is any doubt, call the fire department for emergency assistance. 4. Do not touch any electrical wires or appliances. 5. Always have faulty or damaged wiring and electrical components repaired before using your RV again. If you feel the fire was caused by a product failure you must contact Entegra Customer Service for approval before you clean any debris, enter, move or repair the RV (failure to notify Entegra Coach may result in loss of coverage). 19

32 SECTION 3 ELECTRICAL SYSTEM 50 AMP 240/120-VOLT AC SYSTEM Your RV is equipped with a 240/120 VAC/50- amp power cord and load center. A maximum of 50 amps (or 6000 watts) of power can be consumed at any given time. It may be necessary to stagger usage of some appliances to maintain your power usage at 50 amps or lower. It is very important to verify any electrical outlet (or receptacle) you intend to connect the power cord to is rated properly before that outlet is used. For example, if you are planning to connect the power cord to an electrical outlet in your garage or house, to prevent damage to your RV or property call an electrician to verify that outlet is properly rated. CIRCUIT BREAKER PANEL Replacement circuit breakers must be of the same voltage, amperage rating and type. Never use a higher rated replacement circuit breaker; doing so may cause a fire by overheating the RV wiring. Figure 1 Typical circuit breaker panel The circuit breaker panel protects the 120- volt electrical system from overloads, shorts in the wiring and shorts in the connected components. When an overload or short occurs, the circuit breaker will open (or trip ) preventing any further flow of electricity and damage to the RV. If a circuit breaker has been tripped, shut OFF the connected appliance (i.e., air conditioner, microwave, etc.) and allow a brief cooling period. Then reset the circuit breaker by moving the appropriate switch OFF and back ON. PLUG INTO 50-AMP SERVICE ONLY. Do not hook up the 50-amp power cord to any receptacle until you have verified proper polarity and grounding. Polarity indicators can be purchased in most electrical and hardware stores. Do not use any cheater plug, adapter or extension cord to reduce incoming AC power or break the continuity of the circuit connected to the grounding pin. Do not connect the power cord into an outlet that is not grounded, or adapt the 50-amp power cord plug to connect it to a receptacle for which it is not designed. Do not remove the grounding pin to connect to a non-grounded receptacle. Removal of the ground pin disables an important safety feature designed to prevent shock and electrocution hazards. Do not connect the power cord to an extension cord. Use of an improper extension cord will cause overheating of the cord as well as potentially causing premature failure of the AC equipment. It is the responsibility of the owner of the electrical receptacle to ensure that the receptacle is properly wired and grounded. Reverse polarity and/or improper grounding of your RV can cause personal injury or death. The 50-amp power cord must be fully extended when in use and not left coiled in the electrical compartment or on the ground. If the power cord is left coiled, it may potentially create enough heat to melt its protective casing. 20

33 SECTION 3 ELECTRICAL SYSTEM 50 AMP If the circuit breaker is continually tripped and no overload is evident, contact your dealer to have the electrical system tested and repaired. A circuit breaker identification label is located by the 120-volt load center. Circuit breakers will not offer complete protection of the RV electrical system in the event of a power surge or voltage spike. Replacing a circuit breaker At the beginning of camping season, inspect the circuit breakers and replace as needed. Test by turning each circuit breaker OFF and back ON. Circuit breakers are wearable parts and must be replaced as needed, as part of your RV maintenance. If you have any questions, consult your dealer. 50-AMP POWER CORD The 50-amp detachable power cord is also commonly referred to as the shore line power cord. This power cord is designed to ground the RV electrical system through the external power source receptacle. It is also designed to carry the voltage and amperage output of 50-amp campground outlets. Occasionally the electrical service provided by a campground may experience low or high voltage (i.e., surges or spikes). Any prolonged exposure will shorten the life of the electrical system and appliances. Consult your dealer for recommendations on aftermarket power surge protection. Connecting the power cord Always test the 50-amp external power source (i.e., the campsite power box or electrical box) with a ground monitor, before connecting your power cord. If the ground monitor indicates 'reverse polarity' or an 'open ground' DO NOT connect the power cord. 1. Turn OFF the 50-amp main circuit breaker at the load center. 2. Carefully extend the entire length of the power cord from the electric cable hatch to the external power source. 3. Plug the power cord into the electrical outlet. Be sure all the power cord prongs are properly plugged into the receptacle. 4. Return to your RV and turn ON the 50- amp main circuit breaker. 5. To help prevent power surges from damaging the connected loads, please follow these instructions when hooking up to the external power source: When you are ready to leave, reverse the power cord connection process. Use care to prevent damaging the power cord electrical connection pins when connecting or disconnecting the power cord. Grasp the plug to remove from the outlet; do not unplug by pulling on the cord. Be sure to close the electric cable hatch to prevent water leaks. The power cord should be unplugged when the RV is left unattended. If something would happen to the electrical system, this may help limit potential damage. Maintenance Inspect the power cord for cuts, cracks and worn insulation. Replace the power cord immediately if these symptoms are noticed. CONVERTER The converter converts 120 VAC power to useable 12 VDC power when the 50-amp power cord is connected to campground power. The converter has a built-in protective thermal breaker that will shut the converter down if it becomes overheated. Overheating can be caused by operating the converter above its maximum limit for an extended period of time or by an obstruction to its ventilation. A portion of the RV 12-volt load (lights or motors or both), should be turned OFF to reduce the total load. Remove any obstructions to the converter cooling fins or fan. Maintenance The battery charger in the RV converter provides a trickle charge and is designed to keep the auxiliary battery(s) topped off. It is not designed or capable of recharging a battery that is completely discharged or damaged. 21

34 SECTION 3 ELECTRICAL SYSTEM 50 AMP Figure 2 Typical converter reverse polarity fuses location If the converter is not working (or the auxiliary battery is not charging), check the reverse polarity fuse(s) located on the converter panel and replace the fuses as needed. If replacing the reverse polarity fuses does not resolve the issue, or you have further concerns, contact your dealer for assistance. Remember, there are no customer serviceable parts in the converter; if the converter box is opened, it will void the vendor warranty. GFCI RECEPTACLE OUTLET Grounding is your personal protection from electrical shock. Your RV has a ground fault current interrupter (GFCI) receptacle outlet engineered into the 120 VAC electrical system. It may have additional electrical outlets wired through, and protected by, the GFCI. Its function is to reduce possible injury caused by electric shock. The GFCI will not protect against short circuits or overloads. Figure 3 Typical GFCI Testing the GFCI outlets The GFCI outlets should be tested monthly at minimum as part of your RV maintenance. The 120 VAC electrical system must be powered on in order to test the GFCI. 1. Plug a 120 VAC electrical device into the GFCI receptacle outlet. 2. Push and release the RESET button (the 120 VAC electrical device should operate normally) on the GFCI. 3. Push in the GFCI TEST button. 4. The RESET button should pop out indicating the GFCI receptacle has been tripped and the 120 VAC electrical device should cease to operate. 5. Push in the RESET button again and it should hold. If the GFCI did not trip, do not use the GFCI receptacle outlet or those wired to it. Call your dealer for repair assistance if it does not hold and pops back out. Any faulty equipment must be repaired before your RV is used again. Although an RV exterior power receptacle is not a GFCI receptacle outlet, it is usually wired through and protected by an interior GFCI. If your power cord is connected to 50-amp service properly and the 120 VAC system is not operating, we recommend you test all the GFCI outlets, check the circuit breakers in the load center and test your external power source receptacle before calling your dealer for assistance. Exterior electrical receptacle The RV exterior electrical receptacle is GFCI protected. Figure 4 Typical exterior electrical receptacle CALCULATING ELECTRICAL LOAD The relationship between amps and total wattage can be misunderstood. You may think there is a proportionate link between differing amp levels when, in fact, that isn t necessarily so. 22

35 SECTION 3 ELECTRICAL SYSTEM 50 AMP For example, 20-amp service requires 2,400 watts (20 amps times 120 watts), and 30 amp service needs 1-1/2 times as much power (3,600 watts, or 30 amps times 120 watts). However, for 50-amp service the potential amount of power used 12,000 watts, or 50-amps times 240 volts represents more than three times as much possible demand as 30 amp service. Conversely, a RV rated for 50-amps (incorrectly) hooked up to a 30 amp outlet is only getting about one-third of the power that the RV may need to run a full complement of appliances. As you purchase and use 120-volt appliances, remember your RV is limited to a maximum load of 50-amps. When camping and traveling, remember each appliance and 120- volt accessory places a load on the RV electrical system. You can determine the amperage rating of an appliance by dividing the watts used (usually found on a label or plate affixed to the appliance) by your RV s supply voltage. For example: watts divided by 120-volts AC equals 10-amps. In addition, remember many RV appliances require more amps to start the appliance than to run the same appliance. For example, a roof air conditioner can draw approximately 16 amps to start, but may only use approximately 13 amps once it is running. You may periodically trip circuit breakers if the combined load of your appliances and accessories exceeds your 50-amp rating. To remedy, turn off the appliances until you are at or under the 50-amp load rating, and then reset the circuit breaker. Please refer to the Approximate Electrical Load Ratings chart in the Specifications & Glossary section for further assistance. GENERATOR The factory-installed generator (also referred to as a genset) will produce 120 VAC power for use when camping in areas where shore power is unavailable. 120-volt power from the generator is outputted to the AC distribution center by way of a factory-installed automatic transfer switch. In the default mode, the automatic transfer switch connects the generator to the AC distribution center when the generator is operating and shore power is disconnected from the RV. The power to start the generator comes from the auxiliary battery. A remote start/stop switch is located on the generator. Exhaust gas fumes Be aware the generator runs on gasoline and gives off carbon monoxide. Avoid inhaling exhaust gases as they contain carbon monoxide, which is a potentially toxic gas that is colorless and odorless. 1. Do not run an engine (i.e., tow vehicle engine, generator engine, etc.) in a confined area, such as a closed garage, any longer than needed to move your RV in or out of that area. 2. The RV windows should be closed while driving or running the generator to help avoid drawing dangerous exhaust gases into the RV. 3. If you suspect that exhaust fumes are entering the RV, have the cause determined and corrected as soon as possible. The best protection against carbon monoxide entry into the RV is a properly maintained ventilation system and an active CO alarm. To allow for proper operation of the ventilation system, keep the ventilation inlet grill(s) clear of snow, leaves or other obstructions at all times. Generator prep Generator prep means there is basic wiring necessary for installation of an aftermarket generator, an automatic transfer switch, start switch and hour meter (it does not include a factory-installed fuel tank). RV generators are built in compliance with specific codes and standards. Your RV is not designed to use generators other than those built specifically for RVs. When you are ready to purchase an 23

36 SECTION 3 ELECTRICAL SYSTEM 50 AMP aftermarket generator, consult your dealer for assistance. 12-VOLT DC SYSTEM The majority of your RV lighting is powered by 12 VDC electricity. The 12 VDC system is composed of components that will operate when the following conditions are met: Power is supplied by the tow vehicle alternator when the engine is running and the 7-way trailer plug is connected. This powers the RV s running lights, brake lights, turn signals and brakes. In addition, the 7-way trailer plug provides a common ground and a 12-volt charge line to charge the auxiliary battery. The converter will supply interior 12 VDC power when the 50-amp power cord is plugged into campground power. The converter will also charge the auxiliary battery in most situations. The auxiliary battery powers many interior 12-volt components including the lighting fixtures, water pump, 12-volt motors, 12- volt appliances, etc. It also powers the breakaway switch. 12-VOLT BATTERY DISCONNECT Your RV has a 12 VDC master battery disconnect switch, usually located in the Cargo Maxx compartment. To avoid draining your auxiliary battery, turn this battery disconnect switch off when the RV is not being used for a period of time. Figure 5 Battery Disconnect When the battery disconnect switch is off the 12 VDC electrical system WILL NOT PROVIDE power to the propane alarm. To function correctly, the propane alarm must be connected to a constant 12 VDC power source. TOW VEHICLE BATTERY ISOLATOR You may want to have a solid-state battery isolator installed on your tow vehicle starting system as a convenience feature: It receives current from the tow vehicle alternator and controls distribution of energy to both the auxiliary battery(s) and the tow vehicle battery. It serves as a check valve to prevent energy from being drawn from your tow vehicle chassis battery (so you can start your tow vehicle engine). Your dealer can assist you with the selection, purchase and installation of this aftermarket part. AUXILIARY BATTERY Your RV has many 12 VDC loads. When combined, their total is more than the converter can produce. High demands for 12- volt power can be met by an auxiliary battery for limited periods of time. The 12 VDC electrical system is designed for usage with a Group 24 or Group 27 deep cycle batteries. To prevent damage, do not connect an automotive style battery to your RV electrical system. A deep cycle battery is rated in amp/hours (how many amps, for how long, you can draw from your deep cycle battery before it is discharged). Deep cycle batteries are designed to be discharged over and over again and still take a charge. If you enjoy dry camping (without hook-ups) you will depend on your deep cycle batteries for your 12-volt needs. Deep cycle batteries differ in size; the higher the amp/hour capacity the larger the battery is. Before purchase, measure your battery tray to determine which size battery fits. Only purchase multiple deep cycle batteries of the same Group (for example, do not mix Group 24 and Group 27 batteries). 24

37 SECTION 3 ELECTRICAL SYSTEM 50 AMP Dry camping Consider the charge condition of the auxiliary battery when dry camping. If the auxiliary battery is not being recharged and power is being drawn from it, it will eventually discharge. A battery will discharge at a faster rate as its energy level becomes depleted. It is recommended you plan your electrical usage accordingly. For accuracy, test the auxiliary battery voltage using a volt-ohm meter (customer supplied). A fully charged deep cycle, lead acid battery will read 12.7 volts DC and specific gravity at 80 F (32 C). The auxiliary battery is considered discharged at 11.8 volts DC by electronic standards; when voltage drops below those levels, permanent damage may occur. Typically, a deep cycle battery has an amphour rating of amps. If you run the furnace and refrigerator simultaneously, you will be using approximately ( ) 15.0 amps per hour. This does not include any 12- volt lights, the water pump or any other 12- volt component. In addition, if the furnace and refrigerator in our example operated constantly, a 75 amp-hour battery would become fully discharged in 5 hours (75ah / 15a = 5h). The auxiliary battery should be installed in parallel with the battery in your tow vehicle. When the 7-way trailer plug is connected, both batteries power the RV so it is important not to discharge your tow vehicle battery below the level required to start the engine. To prevent this from occurring, disconnect the 7-way trailer plug, or purchase and install a solid-state battery isolator to the tow vehicle s starting system. When the tow vehicle engine is operating with the RV connected, the tow vehicle charging system will charge both batteries. Maintenance The life of a battery is determined by a number of factors, with the most important being proper maintenance. Amount of use, proper charging and climate are other elements that also need to be considered. A battery that is stored for prolonged periods of time without use or recharging can develop sulfation on the plates which will greatly reduce the time a battery will perform. Some equipment in your RV will draw small amounts of current even when turned OFF. To prevent the auxiliary battery from being discharged when your RV is not connected to shore line power, shut off the 12-volt battery disconnect switch and disconnect the negative cable at the auxiliary battery. During storage, it is important to check the auxiliary battery voltage monthly and recharge the battery(s) as needed. If you remove the auxiliary battery from your RV, store it in a dry, cool area (not next to a furnace or other heat source) according to the battery manufacturer s instructions. The battery's state of charge can be tested using a hydrometer or a voltmeter. A hydrometer will determine the specific gravity of the electrolyte in each cell, while a volt-ohmmeter will give you a voltage reading. Do not use a fast boost charger; a slow charge is best for a deep cycle battery. Replacement When it is time to replace the auxiliary battery, replace it with an identically sized deep cycle battery only. Do not reverse the positive and negative battery cables; in addition to other potential damage, doing so will blow the reverse polarity fuses that protect your RV converter. Contact the battery manufacturer for further safety information. SOLAR PANEL Your RV is prepped for a solar panel. To install a solar panel (customer purchase), locate the blank mushroom cap style vent on the exterior roof. To ensure you have the correct vent, remove the cap from the mushroom style vent. The solar panel prep vent is not plumbed into a ventilation or plumbing system. Instead you will see a Figure 6 Typical roof mushroom vent 25

38 SECTION 3 ELECTRICAL SYSTEM 50 AMP small section of the exterior roof inside the diameter of the vent. Cautiously cut out the exterior roof section inside the diameter of the vent and pull out the solar panel prep wiring. Connect this solar panel prep wiring to your solar panel (install the solar panel to the RV roof according to the manufacturer s instructions). The solar panel prep wiring is pre-wired to the auxiliary battery cables. Please contact your dealer for assistance if you have any questions about these instructions. Damage caused by improper installation of aftermarket parts (i.e., a solar panel, etc.) is not warrantable. 5. Insert a new fuse of the same specified voltage, amperage rating and type in the original location. Never use a higher rated replacement fuse. The fuse panel label should be kept permanently affixed to your RV. The fuses will not offer complete protection of the RV electrical system in the event of a power surge or spike. 12-VOLT FUSE PANEL The 12-volt fuse panels are labeled to indicate fuse sizes, positions and the components powered. At the beginning of camping season, inspect all the 12-volt fuses. Fuses are wearable parts and must be replaced, as needed, as maintenance. Replacing a fuse Replacement fuses must be of the same voltage, amperage rating and type. Never use a higher rated replacement fuse; doing so may cause a fire by overheating the RV wiring. Before replacing a fuse, always turn OFF the electrical component(s) protected by it. 1. Disconnect the shore line power cord. 2. Disconnect the negative cable at the auxiliary battery. 3. If applicable, remove the fuse panel cover to check fuses. 4. Pull the fuse straight out of the fuse block. If the fuse is not blown, something else must be causing the problem. Please contact your dealer for further assistance. Figure 7 Typical interior 12 VDC fuse panel & label INVERTER Your RV is equipped with a factory-installed pure sine wave 2800 watt inverter with four batteries that converts 12-volt DC current to 120-volt AC current. The MS Series inverter/charger has two modes of operation: Figure 8 Typical Magnum Energy MS series inverter Inverter - providing power to your appliances from the auxiliary batteries AC - running from shore power or a generator. Whenever the inverter is in AC mode, it passes power directly to your appliances as 26

39 SECTION 3 ELECTRICAL SYSTEM 50 AMP well as recharges the auxiliary batteries using a 3-stage battery charger (Bulk, Absorption and Float). This approach to battery charging provides rapid and complete charging cycles without placing undue stress on the auxiliary batteries. Inverter operation is fully automatic. The MS Series comes with an on/off invertermounted switch with an easy-to-read LED indicator. It is important that you familiarize yourself with the inverter function and operation. The inverter should be OFF when not in use. Figure 9 MS series manual ON/OFF switch location The factory-installed inverter is not intended for use with medical device(s). 12-VOLT DC OUTLET There may be a 12 VDC outlet in your RV. When the 12 VDC outlet socket is used as a power source for an electric appliance, make sure that the electric appliance operates at 12-volts and has an electric capacity of 60 (5 amps) watts or less. Cap the 12 VDC outlet when it is not in use as the socket might become clogged by foreign material and become short-circuited. 27

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41 SECTION 4 PROPANE SYSTEM LP (liquefied petroleum) gas is a clean and efficient form of energy when proper handling and safety precautions are observed. It enables you to enjoy a comfortable lifestyle when other forms of energy are not easily accessible. LP-gas includes propane, butane and/or a mixture of both. Regulatory codes require you use propane only in your RV. The RV propane system is comprised of a propane container or cylinder, a two-stage regulator, hoses, piping and tubing to deliver propane to each appropriate appliance. Propane is used as a fuel source for the majority of your appliances. Although both Entegra Coach and your selling dealer test carefully for leakage, travel vibrations can loosen fittings. Continued maintenance is necessary for safe operation. The propane system should be checked every 30 days of RV use or 5,000 miles of travel (or at least once a year) as part of your normal maintenance. Propane system leak testing should be performed by your dealer or a qualified propane service technician. If you have further questions about the operation of the appliances or the propane system after reading this manual and vendor manuals, contact your dealer for assistance. the following label. This label should be kept permanently affixed to your RV. Figure 1 If you smell propane label It is important that everyone knows how to turn off the propane system at the cylinders. LEAK TESTING THE PROPANE SYSTEM PROPANE SAFETY PRECAUTIONS Propane is a colorless and odorless gas that in the liquefied state resembles water. An odorant (ethyl mercaptan) with a scent similar to rotten eggs is added as a warning agent. It is possible some individuals may be less sensitive to the odorant used and not notice the smell of propane. If you do not smell the propane odorant (for example, when filling the propane cylinder), notify your dealer or propane service provider immediately. Propane is flammable, is always contained under pressure, and the liquid can freeze skin. Always wear protective clothing such as gloves and eye protection when the potential for contact with liquid propane is present. If you smell propane gas within the RV, quickly and carefully perform the procedure listed on Never use an open flame to test for a propane leak. Do not check for leaks using products that contain ammonia or chlorine; these products can cause cracks to form on the metal tubing and brass fittings. It is STRONGLY RECOMMENDED that you make a service appointment to have your dealer test the propane system for leaks at least once a year, as part of your normal RV maintenance. Have the RV checked for leaks at the connections on the propane system soon after the purchase and the initial filling of each 29

42 SECTION 4 PROPANE SYSTEM propane cylinder. Have the propane system tested for leakage each time a cylinder is refilled or after any part of the propane system has been disconnected. Use an appropriate propane leak detector solution or create a soapy water solution. Propane leak detector solution can be purchased at most dealerships (if soapy water is used, make sure that the soap used does not contain ammonia or chlorine). Apply the propane leak detector solution to all propane piping connections. If a leak is present, the solution will bubble at the connections. If a leak is detected execute your family safety plan. Turn off the propane at the cylinders. Turn off all appliances that utilize propane. Unplug the shore line power cord. Disconnect the auxiliary battery. Contact your dealer for a service appointment. Have the propane system repaired before using it again. DOT PROPANE CYLINDER DOT propane cylinders must be transported and stored in an upright position so the pressure relief device will function properly. Laying a DOT propane cylinder on its side may potentially create a very dangerous situation. The propane cylinder is equipped with a safety valve that relieves excessive pressure by discharging gas to the atmosphere. Do not bring or store portable propane containers(s) or other flammable liquids inside the RV because a fire or explosion may result. Propane is stored in pressurized containers in a liquid state. As the propane is released from the container, it changes to vapor that is then used for the operation of the appliances. Propane will not run through the appliances in the liquid state. The volume of liquid propane increases approximately 1-½% for every 10 F (5.5 C) it is warmed. Heat the propane 100 F (55 C) and the container liquid volume will increase 15%. That is why it is imperative to leave sufficient space inside the cylinder to allow for natural expansion of gas during warmer weather. The main shut off valve must be kept closed at all times unless you are using the propane system or filling the propane cylinder. When the cylinder is disconnected from the hose, install the valve cover that is attached to the container. This is required by the National Fire Protection Agency (NFPA), other applicable local codes and for your own safety. Close the propane cylinder main shut off valve by hand tightening only. Use of tools creates a potential to over tighten the valve (damaging the interior seals on the cylinder valve seat). If this type of damage occurs, the cylinder will not close properly and create a false sense of security. Servicing or filling Before entering a propane or fuel service station make sure all pilot lights are extinguished. Shut off gas to all appliances by closing the propane gas main shut off valve. Always shut OFF any engine before refueling. Do not smoke and do not operate other ignition sources while refueling. When you have a new cylinder filled for the first time, make sure your propane supplier purges your new cylinder of trapped air. Otherwise, an improper mixture of gas and air will make it impossible to light your propane appliances. When a propane container is low, occasionally there may be a concentration of 30

43 SECTION 4 PROPANE SYSTEM an onion or garlic-like odor, which can be mistaken for a propane leak. After a propane cylinder has been refueled, the odor will usually disappear. If not, turn OFF each propane cylinder shut off valve and have the propane system inspected by your dealer or a qualified propane service representative. No one should be inside and only the qualified propane service technician should be near the RV while the propane tank is being filled. The new propane container must be carefully purged for best performance and must NEVER BE OVERFILLED. The following labels should be kept permanently affixed to your RV. Figure 2 All pilot lights, appliances Figure 4 This system is designed Before filling your propane cylinder, make sure that the propane technician is qualified (knows and understands proper inspection and safety procedures.) INSTALLING A PROPANE CYLINDER The pigtail hose must be installed to avoid tension or pulling stress at either end of the hose. Keep the pigtail hose away from sharp edges of the cylinder collar, rigid corners, walls, doors or other compartment structures including the cover. Figure 3 Do not fill propane 31

44 SECTION 4 PROPANE SYSTEM Ensure that all propane cylinder fasteners are secured before traveling. The position of the propane container(s) and the hoses are critical to proper operation and propane flow. Generally, the propane cylinders are located in the front, off-door side compartment. Follow these instructions to make sure your propane container(s) are connected properly. Figure 5 Typical propane cylinder location Connect the 3/8 low-pressure hose to the outlet of the two-stage regulator. Place the cylinder on the bracket in the recess compartment or housing and secure both propane cylinders so the outlets of the cylinder valves are facing the sidewalls of the compartment or housing (opposite of each other). Mount the regulator on the center back wall of the compartment or housing so the vent is pointed downward. Attach the 1/4 inverted flare x 18 Type-1 pigtail hose to the regulator inlet and the right hand swivel nut to the cylinder valve. Attach the main supply hose from the regulator to the brass manifold fitting in the frame of the RV. The swivel brass nut on the main hose will be your final attachment. Figure 6 Main supply hose Following are important steps to follow each time a propane container is replaced: Check ALL the propane system fittings to make sure they are tightened properly. Leak test the propane system. Open the main valve slowly to avoid a fast rush of propane to the excess flow valve causing propane freeze up. If you experience a propane freeze-up, close the main valve and wait at least 15 minutes before trying again. Refer to the regulator manufacturer s information for further assistance. Listen carefully as propane begins to flow. If a hissing noise is heard for more than one or two seconds, close the main valve and contact your dealer to have the propane system tested. Replace all protective covers and caps on the propane system. Make sure the valve is closed and the compartment door is securely latched. Propane container overfill Never overfill your propane container above the liquid capacity indicated on the container. If a container is overfilled, liquid gas may flow through the gas regulator, causing it to freeze and/or introduce dangerous excessive gas pressure into the lines. In addition, an overfilled container placed in hot sunlight may expel excessive gas through the relief valve and be susceptible to ignition by any nearby open flame or spark. If you do overfill the propane container, contact your dealer or a qualified propane technician for assistance immediately. Do not attempt to service a propane container overfill yourself. Inspection and maintenance Propane gas is normally non-corrosive - you need not worry about the inside of your container. However, the outside should be kept free from rust by a periodic coat of paint 32

45 SECTION 4 PROPANE SYSTEM in a light reflective color. Rust, scratches and/or dents can affect the safety of the cylinder. Inspect the cylinder at regular intervals. If there is a problem, have it evaluated by a qualified technician and discard it. DOT requires that a visual inspection be made prior to each filling. Any cylinder that has been exposed to fire, leaks or seems damaged should not be refilled. Do not attempt to repair any containers, container valves, regulator or appliances by yourself. Use only trained certified propane gas service technicians to perform repairs. Propane cylinder recertification If you have an older RV you should know that, according to Federal law, DOT propane cylinders may only be used for 12 years after their manufacture date (the number of years for certification may vary in your area). After that, the cylinders must be "recertified" which provides another five years of use. The cylinders can be recertified every five years thereafter. Federal DOT (Department of Transportation) regulations require periodic inspections and re-qualifications of the propane cylinders. DO NOT USE damaged or rusted containers. Verify with your local propane dealer that all required inspections and certifications have been completed on your RV propane cylinders within the correct time period and before refilling a cylinder. PROPANE REGULATOR The two-stage regulator has the only moving components in the propane system. Its sole function is to reduce the pressure from the propane containers to a safe and consistent low operating pressure. The first stage reduces the container pressure to lbs. The second stage reduces the lbs. of pressure further to an operating pressure of 11 W.C. (water column) or 6.35 oz. of outlet pressure to your appliances. The second stage is adjustable and will need to be adjusted by your dealer or qualified propane service technician for optimum performance (this adjustment should always be made with a properly calibrated manometer). If the pressure is too high, it affects performance and safety; if the pressure is too low, your appliances will not operate correctly. Propane regulators must always be installed with the regulator vent facing downward. Regulators that are not located in baggage compartments have been equipped with a protective cover. Make sure the regulator vent faces downward and (if applicable) the cover is in place to minimize vent blockage that could result in excessive gas pressure causing fire or explosion. If your RV is equipped with the automatic two-stage regulator, with both cylinders properly filled: Turn the lever on the regulator towards the cylinder you wish to use first. This will now be the supply cylinder and the other the reserve. Slowly open both cylinder valves. The indicator on top of the regulator will turn bright green. When the cylinder becomes empty, the indicator will change to bright orange. Now turn the regulator lever to the side of the reserve cylinder and the green signal should return. You may now remove the empty cylinder to have it refilled without interrupting the flow from the full bottle. After filling the cylinder, connect the pigtail hose and slowly open the bottle valve. HOSES, PIPES, TUBES & FITTINGS The hoses, pipes, tubes and fittings used in your Propane system are designed to 33

46 SECTION 4 PROPANE SYSTEM withstand pressures exceeding those of the propane system. However, because environment and time can both contribute to the deterioration of these components, they must be inspected for wear at regular intervals as part of your RV maintenance. Inspect all the hoses before each season and when having the tank refilled. Look for signs of deterioration such as cracks or loss of flexibility. When replacing a hose or other propane components, make sure to always replace them with components of the same type and rating (check with your dealer). Fittings are used to connect the various system components to each other. The P.O.L. fitting at the end of the propane supply hose is made of brass so that pipe sealants are not necessary to prevent leaking. It also has a left-handed thread, which means that it is turned clockwise to remove, and counterclockwise to tighten. The P.O.L. fitting has been designed to help restrict the flow of LP gas in the event of a regulator failure or hose malfunction. USING THE PROPANE SYSTEM Do not use portable fuel-burning equipment, including wood and charcoal grills and stoves, inside the RV. The use of these items inside a RV may cause fires or asphyxiation (inability to breathe). After the RV is completely set up and you are prepared for camping enjoyment, use the following steps for propane operation: Close ALL burner valves, controls and pilot light valves. Open the main valve at the propane cylinder slowly to avoid a fast rush of propane vapor through the excess flow valve causing propane freeze-up. Should you experience propane freeze-up, close the main valve and wait at least 15 minutes before trying again. Listen carefully as propane begins to flow. If a hissing noise is heard for more than one or two seconds, close the main valve and contact your dealer to have the propane system tested. Make sure that you read and fully understand ALL safety requirements for handling and operation of the propane system. Light the appliances as needed and directed by the appropriate appliance manufacturer (refer to your warranty packet information). When you have double cylinders on your RV, use only one at a time. Otherwise, the propane supply will be drawn equally from both cylinders until the supply has been totally exhausted. Using one cylinder until it is empty, then using the second cylinder will allow you to fill the empty cylinder at your convenience without running totally out of propane. If flooding is predicted for your area, shut OFF each propane cylinder valve before the water rises. If a propane system has been flooded, do not turn it back ON until it has been checked by your dealer or a qualified propane service technician. The propane system provides added benefits to your camping enjoyment; however, it must be handled with care. If you have any questions or concerns, consult with your dealer, appropriate vendor or Entegra Customer Service. CALCULATING PROPANE USAGE It is important to remember that most RV furnaces, refrigerators, water heaters and ranges may all use propane to operate. Each appliance has a different BTU rating, and you will need to consider them to determine how long your propane supply will last. Most RV gas appliances are operated intermittently. Propane consumption depends on individual use of appliances and the length of time operated. 34

47 SECTION 4 PROPANE SYSTEM For example, unless there is heavy use of hot water, the water heater consumption of propane is minimal. During cool temperature or high wind conditions, furnace consumption can be extremely high. To calculate your propane supply, take the BTU rating of your propane appliance and divide that into your propane cylinder BTU availability. Generally speaking, each gallon of propane (3.86 liters) produces about 91,500 BTU s (46,514 kilojoules) of heat energy. For more information, please refer to the Propane Consumption chart in the Specifications & Glossary section TRAVELING WITH PROPANE Use care when fueling your tow vehicle. Make certain your propane containers are properly fastened in place. Some states prohibit propane appliances to be operated during travel, especially in underground tunnels. Make sure you know the laws for the areas where you travel. 35

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49 SECTION 5 PLUMBING SYSTEMS There are two different water systems in your RV: the fresh water system and the waste water system. The fresh water system generally consists of the fresh water holding tank(s), fresh water connections, water pump, outside shower assembly, water heater, faucets, shower or tub, washer/dryer and water purification system. The waste water system consists of the waste water holding tank, sewage holding tank, drains and toilet. Your RV has a one piece galvanized metal underbelly: The heated and insulated holding tanks are always enclosed. The water lines are in-floor heated and always enclosed. winterization to take care of all the components within the plumbing system and help discourage the growth of bacteria and other organisms that can contaminate the water supply. DO NOT drink water deemed microbiologically unsafe or of unknown quality. UNIVERSAL DOCKING CENTER PLUMBING SYSTEM MAINTENANCE Recreation vehicles shake and vibrate while going down the road. It is possible for plumbing fittings to come loose. Check all fittings, pressure and waste, for leaks before each trip or before vehicle storage as part of your normal maintenance: Inspect all faucets, the water purification system and sink connections (including drain baskets or filters). Remove the access panel(s) and inspect the shower faucet fittings and shower drain lines. Inspect the washer/dryer (customer supplied appliance) fittings and drain lines. Inspect connections at the water pump and water heater. At the end of every trip, you should drain any unused water from the fresh water system. All water contains contaminant and mineral particles that can cause fresh water system odors. Untreated well water is a major source of water system odors. The fresh water (or potable water) system needs periodic sanitization and Figure 1 Typical universal docking center Your RV has an exterior universal docking center that allows you to access many of the plumbing system functions at one central location. It may contain the following: Outside shower with hot and cold water Black tank rinse connection City water connection Low point drains Enclosed termination valve handles for the waste water and sewage holding tanks 12-volt DC courtesy light Paper towel dispenser (attached to the compartment door) Sanitization/winterization valves GFCI 110-volt AC receptacle MONITOR PANEL The interior wall-mounted monitor panel can allow you to monitor the fresh water, grey 37

50 SECTION 5 PLUMBING SYSTEMS water, black water and auxiliary battery levels. These functions are controlled using the "tact" switch located on the monitor panel faceplate. installations. If routine use of the black tank rinse does not resolve false read-outs add some water and a couple bags of ice cubes to the empty holding tanks. Drive your tow vehicle and RV around approximately 20 minutes to allow the ice cubes to scrub the sides of the holding tanks. Use of proper holding tank chemicals will also help keep the holding tank probes clean. Fuses for the monitor panel are typically located in the load center. Figure 2 Typical monitor panel The monitor panel operates on 12-volt DC power supplied by either the converter or auxiliary battery. When a tact switch is pressed, sensors (or probes) installed in the holding tanks connect to a resistor assembly (relaying an electronic message to the display board). No power is drawn from the auxiliary battery unless a tact switch is pressed ON. Operation Press only one tact switch at a time. As you push the TEST tact switch, LED lights illuminate indicating the holding tank content levels and auxiliary battery condition. The highest LED light illuminated indicates the estimated condition. C = charge at 12.7 volts G = good at 12.1 volts F = fair at 11.6 volts L = low at 6.0 volts. Pump switch When the pump switch is ON the water pump runs until the pump maximum PSI has been achieved. The red light will stay ON. Turn the pump switch OFF when the water pump is not in use. Heater switch The heater switch enables propane operation of the water heater. Maintenance The holding tank probes must be kept free from residue or debris, and the RV in a level position, for proper read-outs. Monitor panel read-outs are approximate, and may vary according to the location of the probe CITY WATER FILL Using a water pressure regulator (customer supplied) is recommended. Not using a water regulator when connected to city water may cause fittings to fail and cause potential damage to the RV plumbing system. The city water fill is located in the universal docking center. We recommend that you use a non-toxic drinking water hose dedicated only to supplying the RV with fresh water. To reduce the chance of contamination, prevent the non-toxic drinking water hose from coming into contact with the ground. Install the city water fill inlet cap when the fresh water connection is not being used. Do not remove the following label from your RV: Figure 3 Potable water only. Sanitize Excessive pressure from water supply systems may be encountered in some parks, especially in mountain regions. 38

51 SECTION 5 PLUMBING SYSTEMS Hooking up to city water Use this setting if you are at a campground or other facility where the RV can be hooked up to an external water source (and not the fresh water tank). 1. If needed, sanitize the water system prior to travel or camping. 2. Move the water heater bypass valves to the NORMAL position. 3. Close the fresh water tank bypass valves (located in the universal docking center). To disconnect 10. Shut OFF the water at the external water source. 11. Disconnect the non-toxic drinking water hose and reinstall the city water fill inlet cap. The city water fill should be disconnected when the RV is unattended for any amount of time. If something should happen to the water system, this may help limit potential water damage to a smaller area. WATER PURIFICATION SYSTEM Figure 4 Fresh water tank bypass valve (in the closed position) 4. Close the winterization valve (located in the universal docking center). The water purification filter cartridge is located in the kitchen area. It filters the cold line to the kitchen sink and refrigerator icemaker. If the water supply has not been used for some time, allow the water to flow for several minutes to flush the system. Replacing the water filter cartridge Figure 5 Winterization valve (in the closed position) 5. Remove the city water fill inlet cap and attach a non-toxic drinking water hose to the city water fill inlet. 6. Turn ON the water at the external water source. 7. Enter the RV and open the cold water supply faucets to bleed air from the water lines. When the water lines are nearly full, you may experience some "air pockets." Allow them to escape before closing the cold water supply faucets. 8. The water heater will fill first, followed by the supply lines and faucets. 9. Turn the appropriate (12-volt or 120-volt) water heater control switch ON. Figure 6 Water filter cold water inlet valve Shut off the water filter cold water inlet valve, remove and replace the water filter cartridge when water flow from the kitchen faucet is too slow for convenience, or at least once a year (refer to the water filter manufacturer s information). Water filter bypass Figure 7 Water filter bypass valve 39

52 SECTION 5 PLUMBING SYSTEMS When not in use, the water filter cartridge should be stored out of freezing temperatures. RV antifreeze will damage the water filter cartridge. Before winterizing the RV plumbing system, shut off the water filter cold water inlet valve and the water filter bypass valve. FRESH WATER HOLDING TANK The fresh water tank can be filled by pressure filling through the fresh water inlet (called city water) or by country fill. There are plastic overflow tubes plumbed into the fresh water holding tank. They allow water to flow out of the water tank. Occasionally, you may see water coming from the overflow tubes (located underneath the RV) when the fresh water holding tank is filled. This is normal, and is caused by external circumstances, including the RV being parked on an incline, or the motion caused by starting or stopping the RV during travel. Do not cap, block or modify the fresh water tank overflow tubes in any way. Enough water pressure can build up during the filling process to damage the plumbing system if the overflow tubes are obstructed. Filling the fresh water tank using the city water If needed, sanitize the RV water system prior to travel or camping. 1. Move the water heater bypass valves to the NORMAL position. 2. Open the fresh water tank bypass valve. 3. Close the winterization valve. 4. Remove the city water fill inlet cap and attach a non-toxic drinking water hose to the inlet. 5. Turn ON the water at the external water source. 6. Water will flow into the fresh water tank. To disconnect 7. During the filling process, periodically check the fresh water tank level using the monitor panel. When the fresh water tank is full, it is normal to see water running from the fresh water overflow tubes onto the ground. 8. Close the fresh water tank bypass valve. 9. Shut OFF the water at the external water source. 10. Disconnect the non-toxic drinking water hose and reinstall the city water fill inlet cap. Filling the fresh water tank using the country fill Generally speaking, this setting is used to fill the water tank when dry camping. Make sure you have sufficient 12-volt power to operate the water pump. If needed, sanitize the water system prior to travel or camping. 1. Move the water heater bypass valves to the NORMAL position. 2. Open the fresh water tank bypass valve located in the universal docking center. 3. Open the winterization valve and insert the free end of the clear hose into your container of potable water. 4. Turn ON the water pump. 5. Enter the RV and open the cold water supply faucets to bleed air from the water lines. When the water lines are nearly full, you may experience some "air pockets." Allow them to escape before closing the cold water supply faucets. 6. The water heater will fill first, followed by the supply lines and faucets. 7. When at your campsite, turn the appropriate (12-volt or 120-volt) water heater control switch ON. To disconnect 8. During the filling process, periodically check the fresh water tank level using the monitor panel. When the fresh water tank is full, it is normal to see water running from the fresh water overflow tubes onto the ground. 9. Shut OFF the water pump. 10. Close the fresh water tank bypass valve. 40

53 SECTION 5 PLUMBING SYSTEMS 11. Remove the free end of the clear hose from the container of potable water. Allowing any remaining water to drain before restoring the clear hose to its travel position. shut off the water pump, unscrew the cap, remove the re-useable metal strainer and clear any debris, then reinstall. WATER HEATER 12-VOLT WATER PUMP & SWITCHES You will find two 3-way electric water pump switches in your RV: one in the universal docking station and one on the monitor panel. Once activated, the water pump (also known as the demand pump) will self-prime, and provide water. The water pump continues to run until its maximum pressure is achieved, and then shut off. The water pump will automatically re-start when it senses a drop in the water pressure. Some cycling may occur, depending on the volume of water being released. The water pump switches should be in the OFF position if the RV is left unattended for any amount of time (storage or camping). If the unexpected should occur, this could help limit potential water damage to a smaller area. Dry camping When you want to use water in your RV and are not hooked up to city water, you will need sufficient 12-volt DC power to run the water pump. Maintenance Figure 8 Flojet water pump strainer Periodically check the in-line water pump strainer for accumulated debris. To clean, If you smell propane gas then STOP! Never operate the heater if you smell gas. DO not assume that the smell of gas in your RV is normal. Any time you detect the odor of gas, it is to be considered life threatening and corrected immediately. Extinguish any open flames, including cigarettes, and evacuate all persons from the vehicle. Shut off the propane supply at the propane cylinders. Do not replace any component part with an accessory part that is not authorized by the water heater manufacturer, such as an add-on electric heating element. Such items are not approved to be installed and could create an unsafe condition and will void all warranties. STOP! Read the safety and operating information provided in the vendor manual before attempting to activate the water heater. Make sure the water heater is filled with water before use; even momentary operation of the water heater without water in it may result in damage to the tank and/or controls. Always open both the hot and cold water faucets when filling the fresh water tank to allow air pockets to be forced out of the water heater. The DSI water heater is designed to heat water quickly and efficiently. The water heater manufacturer has preset the sensing limit to maintain the water temperature when the water heater is activated. The thermostat on your Suburban water heater is not adjustable. It is a temperature sensing limit designed to maintain a water temperature of 130 F (54 C). 41

54 SECTION 5 PLUMBING SYSTEMS Hydrogen gas may result if you have not used the water heater for two weeks or more. HYDROGEN GAS IS EXTREMELY FLAMMABLE. To reduce the risk of injury under these conditions, open the hot water faucet for several minutes at the kitchen sink before you use any electrical appliance connected to the hot water system. If hydrogen is present, you probably will hear an unusual sound such as air escaping through the pipe as the water begins to flow. Hydrogen gas may be present even after water has been drained from the tank. Open the sink faucet at the sink and allow the system to vent for five to ten minutes (or as needed). Do not smoke or have any open flame near the open faucet. On DSI water heater models, make sure the switch is OFF. 1. Turn OFF all electric power to the water heater. 2. Turn OFF the propane supply. 3. Wait five minutes for the propane to clear the area. If you smell gas then STOP! Follow the safety instructions listed in the vendor manual. If you don t smell propane, go to the next step. 4. Turn ON the propane supply. 5. Turn ON electrical power to the water heater. 6. Make sure the switch located on the water heater (behind the exterior water heater compartment door) is ON. Figure 9 Typical 120-volt AC and 12-volt DC interior water heater switches 7. Turn either the 12-volt (located on the monitor panel) or the 120-volt (generally located in the kitchen or bathroom area) water heater control switch ON. If the burner does not light, the system will automatically attempt two more tries for ignition before lock-out. Each ignition cycle will have a 15 second purge before spark cycle if system is a three try system. 8. If lock-out occurs before the main burner lights, turn the water heater control switch to OFF, wait five seconds and turn the switch to the ON position. This will restart the ignition cycle. The first start-up of the heater may require several ignition cycles before all the air is purged form the propane lines. If the burner will not come on, the following items should be checked before calling a service person: 1. See if the switch located on the water heater (behind the exterior water heater compartment door) is turned OFF. 2. Check to make sure the propane supply to the water heater is not empty or turned OFF. 3. Check to see if the reset button on the water heater ECO (located behind the exterior water heater compartment door) is tripped. Odor from the hot water system Many water supplies contain sufficient amounts of sulfur to produce an odor, often called sulfur water. Sulfur water can be caused by a chemical action or by bacteria. Generally, sulfur water is not harmful, only unpleasant to smell. To eliminate sulfur water (or bacteria) sanitize the water heater and RV plumbing system. Odor from sulfur water is not a service problem. High altitude deration Operation of the water heater at high altitudes may require derating. If the water heater is not properly derated, lack of sufficient oxygen for combustion may produce improper burner operation. Pilot outage caused by burner lift- 42

55 SECTION 5 PLUMBING SYSTEMS off or sooting from a yellow burner may occur, indicating the possibility of carbon monoxide. You may also notice a lack of efficiency in heating the water because of incomplete combustion of the burner at these higher altitudes. Consult with the local propane gas company, your dealer or the water heater OEM for proper derating of the water heater. Change out of the orifice (derating) should be done by the dealer or a qualified service agency. It is important that once the RV has returned to lower elevation (below 4500 feet) any high altitude deration or other adjustments be reversed for proper operation of the water heater. Pressure & temperature relief valve Do not place a valve between the pressure and temperature (P&T) valve and the tank. Do not remove or plug the relief valve under any circumstances. You may experience water weeping or dripping from your water heater's pressure and temperature (P&T) relief valve when your water heater is operating. Water weeping or dripping does not mean that the P&T valve is defective. As water is heated, it expands. The water system in a RV is a closed system and does not allow for the expansion of heated water. When the pressure of the water system exceeds the relieving point of the P&T valve, the valve will relieve the excess pressure. One way to reduce the frequency of this occurrence is to maintain an air pocket at the top of the water heater tank. This air pocket will form in the tank by design; however, it will be reduced over time by the everyday use of your water heater. To replenish this air pocket: 12. Turn off the water heater. 13. Turn off the cold water supply line. 14. Open a faucet in the RV. 15. Pull out the handle of the pressure relief (P&T) valve and allow water to flow from the valve until it stops. 16. Release the handle on the P&T valve - it should snap closed. Close the faucet and turn on the cold water supply. As the tank fills, the air pocket will develop. Repeat this procedure as often as needed to reduce the frequency of the weeping P&T valve. Anode rod protection Do not replace the anode rod or any other component with an accessory part that is not authorized by the water heater manufacturer, such as an add-on electric heating element. Such items are not approved to be installed and could create an unsafe condition and will void all warranties. The tank in the Suburban water heater is protected by a magnesium or aluminum anode to prolong the life of the tank by absorbing the corrosive action of hot water. Under normal use, the anode rod will deteriorate and because of this, the water heater OEM recommends the anode rod be replaced yearly. Water with high levels of iron and/or sulfate will increase the rate of deterioration; therefore, more frequent replacements may be required. If an anode rod is mostly eaten away, replace it with a new one. The water heater manufacturer recommends replacement of the anode rod when consumption or weight loss is greater then 75 percent. Figure 10 Suburban anode rod replacement chart 43

56 SECTION 5 PLUMBING SYSTEMS To prevent a water leak when replacing the anode rod, a pipe thread sealant approved for potable water (such as Teflon Tape) must be applied to the threads of the anode rod. Proper application of a thread sealant will not interfere with the anode s tank protection. Operating the water heater without the proper anode rod protection will decrease tank life and will void the vendor warranty on the tank. Maintenance Do not allow the burner to burn with a yellow flame, because sooting will occur. Do not continue operating the water heater with an improper burner flame. Periodically, inspect the water heater for soot. If soot is present anywhere on your water heater, immediately shut the unit down and contact your dealer or a qualified service agency. Soot is a sign of incomplete combustion and must be corrected before operating the water heater. Draining the water heater The Suburban water heater tank is drained by removing the anode rod (an Atwood water heater is manufactured differently and it does not have an anode rod). To extend anode life, drain water from the water heater tank whenever the RV is not being used. Avoid any extended time of non-use with water in the water heater tank. The water heater should be drained and bypassed during the winterization process particularly if introducing RV antifreeze into the plumbing system. Water heater bypass Normal use Closed The water heater bypass is a three-valve system located behind the water heater. The water heater bypass valves must be in the NORMAL position (open the hot and cold valves, close the mixer or middle valve) to use the water heater (and when sanitizing). If winterizing the RV plumbing system, position the three valves to the BYPASS position (close the hot and cold valves, open the mixer - or middle - valve). In an RV plumbing system, a valve is closed by moving the handle perpendicular to the plumbing line (preventing water flow). The valve is open if the handle is positioned in-line with the plumbing line (allowing water flow). Please contact your dealer or Entegra Customer Service if you have any questions about the valve positions or bypassing the water heater. If the RV is to be stored over the winter months, the water heater must be drained to prevent potential damage from freezing. Damage to the water heater caused by freezing is not warrantable. FAUCETS Water temperatures over 125 F (49 C) can cause severe burns instantly or death from scalds; therefore, be careful when using hot water. Always test the water temperature before showering or washing. Figure 11 Water heater bypass valves Open RV faucets operate much the same way as the faucets in your home. Make sure there is sufficient water available and, if dry camping, the 12-volt water pump is turned ON before operating. To open the faucets, turn the hot and cold knobs ON and adjust the temperature to your comfort level. Close the faucets when a sufficient amount of water is released. The shower faucet requires a vacuum breaker when the shower hose and 44

57 SECTION 5 PLUMBING SYSTEMS head are used. There are two purposes for this breaker: To prevent siphoning water through the hose from another fixture. To prevent water from being contained in the hose. The showerhead DOES NOT have a complete shut-off valve (the complete shut-off is at the faucet). The showerhead may drip slightly in the OFF position after use; this is normal and does not indicate a leak or defect. There may be air in the plumbing lines that will need to be bled out before a steady stream of water comes from the faucet. Maintenance At least two times per year, remove the aerator screen in the faucets and spray head. Flush the screens with a strong spray of water, using caution to prevent parts from washing down the drain. Dry the screens and then clear away build up using a stiff wire brush. Stubborn deposits can often be removed by soaking the screen in vinegar. SINK To clear a clogged sink, pour into the drain ½ cup of baking soda followed by ½ cup of vinegar and let stand for three hours. If the clog is due to grease, pour ½ cup of salt followed by ½ cup of baking soda followed by 2 cups of boiling water and let stand overnight (note: add boiling water to a ceramic sink only when there is already standing water present in the basin). Position a plunger over the drain. If necessary, fill the sink to cover the head of the plunger. Rapidly move the plunger up and down to dislodge clogging from the drain. If this procedure does not remove the clog, contact your dealer or a qualified plumber for a service appointment. Avoid using chemical drain openers that may contain corrosive agents that can damage fixtures. BATHROOM SHOWER OR TUB Your bathing facilities in the RV function similar to those in your home. Keep the water heater and holding tank capacities in mind when using the fresh water system. Long showers are not suggested due to the limited amount of water available. The used water will drain through the plumbing pipes into the grey water holding tank. 1. Be sure the water heater is ON and had sufficient time to heat the water. 2. If dry camping, be sure your 12-volt water pump is ON. 3. Adjust the hot and cold faucets to the desired temperature before bathing. 4. To conserve water while showering, wet down and turn the water OFF while you use soap, then rinse. 5. When you are finished, shut the water faucets OFF. Unlike your home, the RV does not contain a water pressure balance valve. If someone is using the shower, it is recommended that the fresh water system NOT BE USED until he or she is finished. Maintenance Use mild dish soap and water to clean the fixtures. Do not use harsh chemicals or sprays. A mild solution of vinegar and water works well to remove hard water spots and stains from the sink or shower fixtures. Do not use cleaners that might scratch the glass or damage to the metal finish of your shower enclosure. OUTSIDE SHOWER A handheld shower assembly with both hot and cold water is available for washing or rinsing outside the RV. It is located in the universal docking center. Before operating, be sure the water heater is ON and had sufficient time to heat the water. 45

58 SECTION 5 PLUMBING SYSTEMS If dry camping, be sure the 12-volt water pump is ON. Ensure the hand held sprayer and hose quick connections are securely fastened Open the faucet knobs and adjust them to the desired temperature. Depress the sprayer handle to activate To cease operation, close the faucet knobs and disconnect the hand held sprayer and hose. After the remaining water has been allowed to drain from the hand held sprayer and hose, replace it in the universal docking station. Any remaining water in the hose or sprayer may drip or run out; this is not a leak but performs as intended. For sanitary reasons, keep the universal docking station compartment door closed when not in use. DRAINING THE FRESH WATER SYSTEM To drain the fresh water holding tank and supply lines: 1. Make sure your water heater bypass valves are open. 2. Open the exterior fresh tank drain valve located under the RV. 3. Open the low point drains by turning, then pulling the valve handles up. These valves are located in the universal docking center. As their name indicates, they will be at the lowest point of water lines. 4. Open all faucets, including the outside shower faucets. 5. Turn ON the water pump and allow it to run as needed. Figure 12 Low point drains (in closed position) Figure 13 Fresh tank drain (in open position) 6. Operate the toilet flush lever until water stops flowing. 7. Relieve the water pressure using the P&T valve BEFORE removing the water heater drain plug. Otherwise, if there is any water pressure present the water will spray out of the opening when the drain plug is removed. When you are finished draining the fresh water system, reverse these steps and dump the grey and black water holding tanks at an appropriate facility or according to local public codes. SANITIZING THE WATER SYSTEM When you drain a RV fresh water holding tank there may still be some water left in the tank. It is very important you sanitize and flush the fresh water system to remove this residual water before using the RV again. Failure to sanitize the potable water system could result in death or serious illness. Chlorine is poisonous. Always recap the household bleach bottle and clean utensils and containers after use. Potable water systems require periodic maintenance to deliver a consistent flow of fresh water. For your personal safety, the plumbing system should be sanitized when your RV is new, at the beginning and end of each season and when the water system becomes contaminated (or approximately every three months of use), tastes stale or has an odor. 1. Level the RV and drain the fresh water system. 2. Prepare a chlorine solution by adding about 1/4 cup of unscented household bleach (sodium hypochlorite solution) to a one gallon container; then, continue filling the container with clean, potable water. 46

59 SECTION 5 PLUMBING SYSTEMS Use one gallon of the chlorine solution for every 15 gallons of RV fresh water tank capacity. This should result in a residual chlorine concentration of 50 ppm in the RV fresh water system. If a 100-ppm concentration is used, add ½ cup of unscented household bleach to a one gallon container; then, continue filling the container with clean, potable water. Use one gallon of the chlorine solution for every 15 gallons of RV fresh water tank capacity. 3. Open the water heater bypass valves. 4. The low point drains must be closed for the chlorine solution to siphon through the lines. 5. Open the fresh water tank bypass valve. 6. Place the free end of the clear hose in the container of chlorine solution and open the winterization valve. 7. Turn the water pump ON. If the water pump fails to self-prime, temporarily open the low point drains. Close the low point drains as soon as the water pump primes (the chlorine solution will begin draining out) and before continuing to the next step. 8. Turn OFF the water pump when the container of chlorine solution is empty. 9. Continue filling the fresh water tank with clean (potable) water until it is full. 10. Open the hot water line on all the faucets (kitchen, lavatory, shower and outside shower) until water begins to flow continuously and a chlorine smell is noticeable. 11. Close the hot water lines and repeat with the cold water lines on the faucets. 12. Let the solution remain in the system for at least four hours when disinfecting with 50- PPM residual chlorine solution. If possible, drive your tow vehicle and RV around for approximately 20 minutes to agitate solution and assist in cleaning the entire tank. If a shorter time period is desired, then the 100-PPM chlorine solution should be permitted to sit in the RV fresh water system for at least one hour. 13. After the required period, drain the chlorine solution from the fresh water system. Flush the RV fresh water system to remove any residual chlorine solution by using the following steps: 14. Fill the RV fresh water system using clean, potable water. 15. Open all of the faucets and run the water. 16. Then, drain the fresh water system. If a chlorine taste lingers in the water, flush the RV fresh water system with a solution consisting of one-quart vinegar to five gallons of clean water. Re-flush with clean, potable water as needed. WINTERIZING THE WATER SYSTEM Preparing your RV for colder weather or storage is very important for most states and Canada. Failure to prepare your RV may cause water supply lines and the water heater to freeze. No commodity or product should be added to the fresh water system to ensure freeze protection other than RV antifreeze. Automotive antifreeze (ethylene glycol) and windshield washer antifreeze (methanol) are poisonous. Never use these products in your fresh water system. These products are harmful and may be fatal if swallowed. The RV should be winterized at the end of the camping season or when the RV will be exposed to temperatures that will fall at or below 32 F (0 C). Repairs due to freezing are not warrantable. It may be easier to winterize the RV with another person to assist you. 1. Level the RV and drain the fresh water plumbing system. 2. Bypass the water filter cartridge. 47

60 SECTION 5 PLUMBING SYSTEMS 3. Bypass the icemaker. 4. Bypass the washer/dryer. 5. Make sure both water heater (12-volt and 120-volt) control switches are OFF. 6. Turn the water heater bypass valves to the BYPASS position. 7. The low point drains must be closed for the RV antifreeze to siphon through the lines. 8. Open the fresh water tank bypass valve. 9. Place the free end of the clear hose in the container of RV antifreeze solution (this quantity should be enough to winterize the RV); and open the winterization valve. 10. Turn the water pump ON. If the water pump fails to self-prime, temporarily open the low point drains. Close the low point drains as soon as the water pump primes (RV antifreeze will begin draining out) and before continuing to the next step. 11. Open the hot water line on all the faucets (kitchen, lavatory, shower and outside shower) until RV antifreeze begins to flow continuously. 12. Close the faucet hot water lines and repeat with the cold water lines on all the faucets. Do not forget to run RV antifreeze through the toilet. 13. Turn the rinse cycle on long enough to get antifreeze into the ball valve inside the washer/dryer. When you are done adding RV antifreeze: 14. Remove the free end of the clear hose from the container of RV antifreeze. 15. To prevent staining, wipe the RV antifreeze out of the sinks, shower (or tub) and toilet using a soft, dry cloth. To reduce the chance of contamination, prevent the free end of the clear hose from coming into contact with the ground. If needed, contact your RV dealer or Entegra Customer Service for assistance. BLACK/GREY WATER SYSTEM Water from the sinks and shower flow into the grey water (or waste water) holding tank. Water from the toilet will flow into the sewage (or black water) holding tank. Drain pipes The drain pipes have P-traps installed to help prevent odors from escaping into the RV. During travel, water from the P-traps may spill and permit odors into the RV. These odors come from food particles decomposing in the tank. By adding water and using a RV approved deodorizing agent you will dissolve the contents faster and will keep the drain lines and tanks clean and free flowing. These chemicals are available for purchase at an RV supply store or from your dealer. Vents Another important part of this system is the vent pipes and vents that release air from the grey and black water holding tanks. The exterior vent cap is attached to the roof and must be kept clear of obstructions to perform as intended. On some models, the vent pipe may be part of the drainage system referred to as a "wet vent" (water flows downward as air flows upward in the same pipe). TOILET WITH HAND SPRAYER It is important to prevent solid waste buildup. Follow the toilet manufacturer s recommended instructions each time after emptying the black water holding tank. The toilet is efficient and easy to operate. Generally, more water is required only when flushing solids. Prior to using the sanitation system, it is strongly recommended to flush the toilet several times to release sufficient water into the holding tank. If there is not a sufficient amount of water used during flushing, the waste materials may not evacuate properly from the drain line to the tank. Clogged tanks and pipes could 48

61 SECTION 5 PLUMBING SYSTEMS eventually occur. Damage caused by improper use of the RV toilet is not warrantable. The toilet system will perform better when water is run for ten to fifteen seconds after flushing to ensure that the waste will proceed to the bottom of the tank. For added convenience and better sanitation system performance, it is advisable to always have four to six inches (10-15 cm) of water in the toilet. To help prevent toilet blockage, always use RV grade single-ply toilet paper. This toilet paper breaks down and dissolves in the holding tank chemicals preventing potential problems with the holding tank, the RV sewer system and the dump station septic system. Do not flush paper towels, diapers, sanitary napkins or other foreign objects down the RV toilet. Maintenance The toilet should be cleaned regularly for maximum sanitation and operational efficiency. Use the hand sprayer to help clean the toilet bowl. Do not use chlorine (undiluted) or caustic chemicals, such as laundry bleach or drain opening types, in the toilet system. These products damage the seals in toilets and dump valves. BLACK/GREY WATER HOLDING TANKS The weight of the holding tank contents is not calculated into your RV cargo carrying capacity (this extra weight will reduce the available cargo capacity). Traveling with full holding tank(s) could possibly cause you to exceed the individual tire ratings and/or the GAWR or GVWR. Potential non-warrantable damage to suspension components, such as springs, tires and axles, could result. If your RV holding tank(s) are located behind the axles, the weight of the full tank(s) will reduce the pin box hitch weight. Trailer sway and other handling difficulties can be the result of the hitch weight being too light. Do not add automotive antifreeze or caustic chemicals such as laundry detergents into the holding tanks. Although these products may have a deodorizing effect, they may damage the plastic and rubber parts of the plumbing system or the components. Dump the black and grey water holding tanks before traveling to avoid carrying unnecessary weight. This not only wastes your tow vehicle fuel but, depending on the location of the tank(s), can affect your tow vehicle handling characteristics. The RV black and grey water holding tanks use gravity flow (they are not mechanically pressurized) during the dumping process. If it's time to leave the campground and your holding tanks aren't full, finish filling them with water and then dump them. Driving to a disposal site with sufficient liquids in the holding tanks will normally loosen any accumulated waste debris or solids from the sides of the holding tanks. If you are dry camping and cannot immediately empty your holding tanks, reduce your vehicle speed until you reach a dumping station. Sewage (black) tank preparation You should always use environmentally safe chemicals. Enzyme based chemicals use the good bacteria to digest waste and control odors. Formaldehyde based chemicals destroy the bacteria that's needed to break down waste and can be dangerous to humans and pets. It is important to add enough water to prevent solid waste buildup. 49

62 SECTION 5 PLUMBING SYSTEMS Before using the RV, or after dumping the grey and black water holding tanks, always add the proper amount of deodorant to the black water tank to prevent malodors and help break down holding tank contents (unless winterizing). Release one to two quarts (1 or 2 liters) of water into the toilet bowl. Follow the directions on your toilet chemical bottle (customer supplied), by placing the recommended quantity of holding tank chemical into the toilet bowl. Flush the toilet and allow at least an additional two gallons (8 liters) of water to flow into the holding tank. Waste (grey) holding tank preparation Remove residue before washing dishes to keep food and grease out of the pipes. Over time and usage, grease and residue will build up in the grey tank. You may notice a foul odor from food particles in the system, and a difference in the tank and valve assembly operation. Periodically treat the grey tank with environmentally safe holding tank chemicals to avoid odors from the tank. Avoid using chemical drain openers that may contain corrosive agents that can damage fixtures. Most states and parks have strict laws and regulations to prohibit dumping of wastes of any kind into anything other than proper disposal facilities or sewer systems. Almost all privately owned parks offer a campsite hookup for sewage. You can locate many dump stations throughout the United States and Canada in Woodall s, Rand McNally Camp Guide, Good Sam Camp Guide, KOA Kampgrounds Camp Guide and various other publications. Some fuel stations also have dump stations. center. They are used to drain the RV black tank and grey water tank. When connected to the sewer drain line at a campground, keep the black water termination valve closed until the holding tank is at least ¾ full. This should provide sufficient liquid to assist in complete draining of the black water holding tank. You want the black water holding tank nearly full so that weight and gravity will force the contents of the holding tank to drain properly. If you are at the campground for an extended period of time and the sewer hose is connected to a dump site you can leave the grey tank termination valve partially open so it drains as you use it, but remember to NEVER do this with the black tank termination valve. There must be sufficient liquids in the holding tanks to prevent solids from hardening and potentially cause obstructions. Repairs due to improper use of the RV termination valves is not warrantable. Maintenance The termination valves require routine maintenance. Each termination valve has an O-ring which seals both sides of the sliding valve. Contact your dealer for a service appointment if you are not comfortable performing this maintenance. If the sliding valve does not close properly, remove the 4 bolts that hold the valve housing together. Clean and lubricate the O-ring and moving parts using a silicone lubricant. The O-rings must be replaced every few years as they wear and become aged. SEWER HOSE & ATTACHMENTS BLACK TANK & GREY TANK TERMINATION VALVES The black tank termination valve and the grey tank termination valve (also called dump valves) are located in the universal docking You will need a flexible RV sewer hose to connect the RV drain valve to the campground sewer line or dump station. Contact your dealer to discuss and purchase (if needed) a heavy duty sewer hose, sewer hose extension valve adaptors, sewer 50

63 SECTION 5 PLUMBING SYSTEMS connectors, house adaptors and other various attachments. Do not remove the following label from the sewer hose dust cap: Figure 14 Cap must be securely For sanitary purposes, you may want to use disposable non-porous gloves and boots that can be rinsed off when dumping the holding tanks. To attach the sewer hose tank waste water can help rinse any solids or debris from the dump outlet and sewer hose. Some termination valves may be hard to access and use because they are low to the ground and the direction of opening can be awkward. 5. Open the black tank dump valve (close the dump valve when the black water holding tank is emptied). 6. Open the grey tank dump valve (close the dump valve when the grey holding tank is emptied). 7. Remove and clean the sewer hose. For sanitary purposes, never use your fresh water hose to wash your sewer hose or related attachments. Figure 15 Sewer hose dust cap 1. Level the RV. 2. Before connecting your sewer hose remove the twist-on bayonet dust cap (also referred to as a waste cap) that is on the valve assembly. 3. One end of the sewer hose attaches to the valve outlet with a twist-on bayonet hose adapter. 4. The other end of the sewer hose attaches to a sewer fitting for connection to the ground level sewer. Some sewer fittings fit loose while others form a gas tight seal which is now required in many states. Once the hose is properly connected on both ends, dumping of holding tanks requires only pulling the handles of the termination valves to the open position. Always drain the black water holding tank first so the following grey Figure 16 Typical sewer hose holder 8. When not in use, store the sewer hose in the sewer hose holder and place any attachments in a storage container (plastic box or plastic bag). Clean or replace this storage container often. BLACK TANK RINSE For sanitary purposes, do not use the same hose to fill your fresh (potable) water tank that is used for the black tank rinse. The black tank rinse may also be referred to as a no fuss flush. The fresh water from the garden hose goes directly into the black water holding tank where there is a sprayer connection located. This allows you to clean 51

64 SECTION 5 PLUMBING SYSTEMS the black water holding tank by removing debris and preventing accumulation. There is a check valve incorporated in the plumbing lines to prevent back flow. Flush the black water tank each time the black water holding tank is dumped or as needed: 1. Dump the black water tank and leave the black tank drain valve open. 2. Connect a garden hose from the water supply source to the black tank rinse. 3. With the water source turned ON, flush the black water holding tank until the water running out of the black tank drain valve is clear (not discolored or cloudy). 4. Disconnect the garden hose and close the black tank drain valve. 5. Fasten the sewer hose housing dust cap back on the black tank rinse. The black tank drain valve must be OPEN any time there is a hose (water supply) connected to the black tank rinse. Do not leave any hose (water supply) connected to the black tank rinse when it is not in use. 52

65 SECTION 6 PRE-TRAVEL INFORMATION To help ensure your traveling enjoyment, call ahead for tourist information in each area that you will be visiting or traveling through. To help eliminate frustration, make sure you obtain the most current road maps. Research and make sure there are no federal, state or local regulations that may prohibit you from fully enjoying your camping adventure. Arrange for someone to check your house periodically while you are away. Stop mail or newspaper delivery. If you intend to be away for more then two weeks, you may want to consider requesting police surveillance for your house. Carry an extra set of vehicle and house keys with you on a separate key ring. Be sure to renew your license if it has expired, or will expire during your trip. If you are planning to visit other countries, contact the consulate nearest the point at which you plan to enter that country for the specific and most current information (including rules for re-entering the United States). Always carry your vehicle registration, insurance policy card(s) and RV warranty registration. TOW VEHICLE If you plan to tow your RV with a tow vehicle you already own, contact your automotive dealer to find out your vehicle towing capacity. If you plan to purchase a new tow vehicle, be certain to tell your automotive dealer the GVWR, size and type of RV that you will be towing (some tow vehicles can be purchased with an optional tow package). As a minimum requirement, the Gross Vehicle Weight Rating (GVWR) of your RV must not exceed your tow vehicle s towing rating. Some automotive manufacturers publish brochures that discuss towing considerations. Ask your automotive dealer how to obtain a copy of this information. If applicable, verify if the brochure ratings are listed with or without an optional tow package. VEHICLE IDENTIFICATION NUMBER (VIN) EXPLAINED The 17-digit VIN is the legal identification of the completed RV and provides information unique to your camper. It is stamped on the exterior fifth wheel pin box. Figure 1 VIN explained A serial number is needed whenever making an appointment or ordering replacement parts from your dealer. The serial number is the last 8-digits of the VIN (in the example shown, the serial number is 99XE0015). VEHICLE LABELS Decals and data plates used throughout the RV aid in its safe and efficient operation; others give service instructions. Read all decals, data and instruction plates before operating your RV. If any decal, data or instruction plate is painted over, damaged or removed, it should be replaced. Keep a record of the 17-digit vehicle identification number (VIN) and your license number in the event theft or vandalism requires you to supply this information to the authorities. 53

66 SECTION 6 PRE-TRAVEL INFORMATION WEIGHT LABELS The factory-installed weight labels are specific to the recreation vehicle for which they are supplied and are not interchangeable. Failure to comply with the listed weight ratings may result in unsafe travel, camping or storage conditions. Vehicle weight labels are posted on Entegra Coach manufactured RVs so you can make an informed decision before your purchase. Do not remove these labels from the exterior of your RV. If the labels are missing, contact your dealer or Entegra Customer Service for replacements. Figure 2 Typical Trailer Weight Information label (no fuel station) You may question the total weight capacity of the tires on your RV being less than the GVWR; this is correct. In order to calculate the actual weight on the RV tires, it is necessary to include the pin box weight. The pin box weight is actually being carried by your tow vehicle, not the RV tires. For example: If the tires are rated at 2,000 lbs. each x 4 tires = 8,000 lbs. and the RV has a GVWR of 9,000 lbs. with a pin box weight of 2,000 lbs. The actual weight on the RV tires is 7,000 lbs. which is within the weight rating of the tires. If you have further questions, please contact your dealer or Entegra Customer Service. FIFTH WHEEL HITCH (CUSTOMER SUPPLIED) Hitch selection is important because it affects the towing and handling characteristics of your RV. There are many kinds of hitches available for various uses and assuring that you have the correct hitch installed is critical to a safe towing experience. Ask your dealer about the proper class and type of hitch you need to purchase for your individual tow vehicle/rv combination (a fifth wheel requires a pin box hitch bolted directly to the floor of the truck box through the frame). Educate yourself to protect you, your family and other motorists. Using an oversized or undersized hitch can cause damage to the RV frame. Entegra Coach cannot be responsible for the tow vehicle suspension system. The final pin box height after the tow vehicle/rv combination is completely hooked up is a factor that must be considered. To avoid overloading your trailer axles and minimize possible handling difficulties, your RV should be level when hooked to your tow vehicle. Do not overload your tow vehicle. The Entegra Coach fifth wheel factoryinstalled pin box is not interchangeable. The hitch manufacturer assigns a hitch class rating based on the capacity that hitch has for towing and a weight classification. The weight classification is determined from the hitch s weight carrying capacity (known as the pin box weight on a fifth wheel). Before selecting a hitch, you must know your GVWR and pin box rating. The rating of the hitch package purchased should be equal to or greater than the RV s GVWR and the pin box rating. Maintain the proper pin box weight on the hitch. Equipment that sometimes 54

67 SECTION 6 PRE-TRAVEL INFORMATION gives autos, trucks and sport utility vehicles a softer ride can accentuate swaying when pulling a RV; conversely, suspension that is too stiff will increase vibration, bounce and accelerate wear of your tow vehicle and RV combination. Pin Box Height There is no recommended hitch height for fifthwheels; usually the fifth wheel pin box is adjustable for variance in trucks and truck suspension systems. Adjust the hitch assembly so that the tow vehicle and the RV are essentially level. A high hitch will transfer weight behind the axles and cause the vehicle to fishtail. A low hitch will transfer additional weight to the hitch. Refer to the hitch manufacturer instructions to adjust the weightdistributing hitch to the proper height. If you have additional questions, consult with your dealer. Entegra Coach cannot be responsible for the suspension system of any tow vehicle. There are a variety of tow vehicle suspension systems available that will affect the ball height, stability and levelness of a hooked up RV. Make certain your dealer is aware of the tow vehicle you are using so a compatible hookup is achieved. RV BRAKE SYSTEM to heavy stops to burnish fit or seat the shoes to the brake drum. After the initial break-in period your brake shoes must be adjusted accurately for best performance and increased durability. Braking system components include: Tow vehicle battery Brake controller Wire harness/connector plug Auxiliary batteries (customer supplied) Breakaway switch Tow vehicle battery The tow vehicle battery is the primary source of power for your RV s electric brake operation. To ensure available power when needed, keep your tow vehicle battery and charging system working properly. Brake controller (customer supplied) The brake controller should be installed in the tow vehicle to work in conjunction with the RV electric brakes. Consult with your dealer or the brake controller manufacturer to decide what is right for your towing combination. LOADING YOUR RV Failure to maintain the brakes in proper working condition as specified in the operator s manual supplied by the axle OEM will cause property damage, personal injury and possibly death. Consult with your dealer for assistance. The electric brakes are designed to work with the tow vehicle brakes. To maintain proper braking performance, both the RV and tow vehicle brakes must be used together. Separate use of the braking systems will cause accelerated wear and damage. When your RV is new, it is impossible to adjust the brake shoes precisely. It takes approximately 1,000 miles and/or 50 medium Never load the RV in excess of the GAWR for either axle. Overloading your RV may result in adverse handling characteristics and damage to the chassis. Decide on the various items of food, clothing, equipment and other supplies you will need for the length and destination of your trip. Store and secure all loose items inside the RV before traveling. Overlooked items such as canned goods, or small appliances on the countertop, cooking pans on the range or free-standing furniture items can become dangerous projectiles during a sudden stop. 55

68 SECTION 6 PRE-TRAVEL INFORMATION DO NOT EXCEED YOUR GVWR! This means you should weigh your RV as loaded for your normal travel to determine the actual weight. If you exceed the GVWR, you MUST remove items from the RV, or drain liquids, then re-weigh the vehicle to ensure you have achieved a safe weight. Do not travel with full grey/black holding tanks. This not only wastes gas but, depending upon the location of the grey or black holding tanks, can affect handling characteristics. Distribute cargo side-to-side so the weight on each tire does not exceed one-half of the GAWR for either axle. For traveling safety, it is recommended you purchase tie down straps to secure appliances or furniture. WEIGHING YOUR TOW VEHICLE & RV Total weight of your tow vehicle and RV must not exceed the GCWR. Do not assume that you can tow a RV that happens to be within the capacity of the tow vehicle hitch. By doing so, you may exceed the total GCWR of your tow vehicle and RV towing combination. Store items in areas designated for storage. Do not store anything in the areas reserved for the converter, electrical panels or the furnace or water heater, etc. Now that your RV is loaded you should have it weighed. The actual weight of the RV, passengers, all options, liquids, the hitch weight of your towed vehicle and your personal cargo is important for you to know so you do not exceed the GVWR. There are two important factors when loading your RV, total weight and balance. It is imperative that you verify compliance within all applicable weight ratings. Damage caused by overloading your RV is not warrantable. Have your RV weighed periodically at a public scale to determine the proper load distribution. Keep in mind that individual scales will operate differently. The surroundings of the scale need to be adequate to accommodate weighing each side of your RV. How to weigh your tow vehicle & RV Read through all the weighing instructions before you begin. If you have further questions, consult with your dealer or the scale operator. Your RV must be weighed fully loaded (that is with food, clothing, fuel, water, propane, supplies, etc). 1. Weigh the RV including the tongue weight, while detached from the tow vehicle. This actual overall weight must be less than or equal to the GVWR for safe operation. If the overall weight is greater than the GVWR, some contents must be removed until the actual overall weight is less than or equal to GVWR. 2. Hitch the RV to your tow vehicle. Weigh the RV and the tow vehicle to determine the GCW. Make sure that this rating is less than or equal to the GCWR as specified by the manufacturer of your tow vehicle. If this overall weight is greater than the GCWR, some contents must be removed to bring the combination into compliance with the listed ratings. 3. Weigh the RV while attached to but excluding the tow vehicle. This will result in the actual weight that is exerted on all of the RV tires. This weight may be subtracted from the overall RV GVWR to determine the actual tongue weight. 4. With the RV still attached to the tow vehicle, weigh each wheel position separately to ensure each tire is not overloaded. To determine the wheel position weight 5. Pull the RV onto the scale so only one tire is on the scale. Record the weight. 56

69 SECTION 6 PRE-TRAVEL INFORMATION Your RV must remain as level as possible on the scale (even though an axle or side is not physically on the scale). Obviously, to obtain the side-to-side weights, there must be enough space on either side of the scale to accommodate the RV being partially off the scale. 6. To calculate the opposite side of the RV wheel position weight, subtract the first side s weight from the weight determined in step #3. If there is a difference in the weights on one side of the vehicle as compared to weights on the other side, components (tires, wheels, brakes, springs, etc.) on the heavier side could be overloaded, even though the total axle load is within the GAWR. It is important to redistribute the load to avoid component failure, improve the handling characteristics of the tow vehicle and not void the Legacy Limited Warranty. With these actual weights, it is now possible to compare them against the Trailer Weight Information label weight ratings to ensure you are below the posted minimum ratings. FIRST SHORT TRIP After familiarizing yourself with the RV, including going through test runs on the systems and having the RV weighed, it is time to take one or two short trips. The experience gained can be priceless. We recommend an overnight stay at a nearby campground. That way it is more convenient if you need to go back to get an item you forgot or didn't know you would need. Otherwise, you may end up spending time or money needlessly by bringing along unused items that take up space or trying to locate and purchase items you hadn't counted on needing prior to leaving your home on an extended trip in unfamiliar territory. Not all RVers will need the same equipment or supplies. For example, individual needs and personal tastes differ, as does the various climates and terrains you will be traveling through with your RV. Remember if most of your trips are planned for the summer and your shake down trip is made during some other season, there will be adjustments that you will need to take into consideration. Be sure to have a pen and notebook available to write down items that you feel may be needed in future travels, as well as noting the equipment you feel you need to become more comfortable using or learning how to operate safely. PRE-TRAVEL CHECKLIST In order to enjoy your travel, having all the right tools and supplies will help. A checklist may be beneficial to avoid forgetting something essential. This list is meant to be a starting point, while realizing that personal preference will also play a large role in your packing. There are items here that may not apply for you and items that could trigger other ideas. As you expand your camping experience, you may wish to develop your own list of needs. Before leaving home Arrange for pet care, mail and/or newspaper pickup. Leave a travel itinerary with a neighbor, family member or friend. Arrange a security watch for your house (neighbor/family/friend). Purchase a current road atlas, campground directory and/or GPS. Bring your proof of insurance, roadside assistance membership card, vehicle registration and any membership cards. Make sure you have this manual and the unit packet. Make sure you have all your RV keys. Bedding Blankets Comforters Pillows Sheets Sleeping bags 57

70 SECTION 6 PRE-TRAVEL INFORMATION Kitchen Aluminum foil, plastic wrap, etc. Charcoal and lighter fluid Cooking utensils Dish soap Dish towels and rags Food supplies Paper plates, towels, napkins, coffee filters, etc. Pots & pans Trash bags and/or paper sacks Personal Supplies Clothing Disposable rubber gloves Laundry detergent Toilet paper Toiletries Towels - beach and bath Recreation Campfire supplies fire grate for cooking (If permissible) firewood, newspapers and/or kindling matches in waterproof container and/or utility lighter skewers, pie irons, etc. Games Lawn chairs Outdoor activity equipment (fishing poles, tennis rackets, etc.) Supplies Bug spray First aid kit Flashlights Sun screen Tools Axe or saw (bow or folding) Cable or satellite wiring Duct tape Emergency road flares Fuses and light bulbs (compatible with your RV) Jack Jumper cables Rope, cord, bungee cord(s) or wire Small folding shovel Surge protector Tire pressure gauge Tool kit (misc. sized screws, screwdrivers, hammer, pliers, etc.) Torque wrench Volt-Ohm-Meter Work gloves RV Departure Checklist Following is a preliminary list of items that need to be checked on your RV before leaving your home or campsite. As you camp, you may want to develop your own list tailored to your individual camping style in addition to the checklist provided: Secure any loose, heavy or sharp objects in the RV or exterior compartments. Retract the awning(s) and secure for transport. Close the roof vents. Disconnect the cable or satellite TV, and lower the TV antenna. Lock refrigerator door. Turn off the interior lights and appliances. Fasten all interior and exterior doors securely. Lock them (if applicable). Disconnect and store the shore line power cord. Check the propane cylinder gauge to make sure there is propane available. 58

71 SECTION 6 PRE-TRAVEL INFORMATION Make sure the fifth wheel landing gears, stabilizer jacks and entry step are retracted to the travel position. Make sure the RV and tow vehicle combination is level Make sure the safety pin or locking lever on the pin box hitch assembly is properly seated Attach the safety chains and breakaway switch Check the area under the RV after overnight parking and look for water or other fluid leaks. If leaks are detected, find the cause and have it repaired immediately. Check all wheel lug nuts for tightness and tires for proper air inflation pressure. Examine the tires for excessive tread wear or uneven wear patterns. Check for stones, nails, glass or other objects lodged in the tread. Inspect for tread cuts or sidewall cracks. Have someone observe the operation of all exterior lights while you activate the controls. Walk around your RV one last time to make sure everything is stored away and the baggage compartments are closed and locked. Remove the wheel chocks. Pull forward, clean the site (if applicable) and check for forgotten items. Test the RV and tow brakes for proper operation. Weigh the fully loaded trailer (people, cargo and liquids included) and maintain proper weight distribution (redistribute as necessary). Ensure proper pin box weight is maintained. 59

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73 SECTION 7 TOWING & HANDLING Driving safety and protection against injury cannot be fully ensured. However, we recommend you pay special attention to the following: The use of daytime running lights can increase other motorists' awareness of the RV to all traffic. Keep the tires inflated to the specified levels. Replace the tires before they are excessively worn or as recommended. Before changing lanes, check the outside rearview mirrors for other vehicles and activate the appropriate turn signal to alert other drivers. While driving, watch the behavior of other drivers, bicyclists and pedestrians. Always follow all traffic laws and regulations. Pay attention to traffic and road conditions. Be a courteous and alert driver. Always leave room for unexpected events, such as sudden braking. Do not drive when you are sleepy or tired. Do not drive when alcohol, drugs or medication has affected your judgment, reflexes or alertness. Obey all traffic laws and use your seatbelts at all times. Many states have lower speed limit requirements for tow vehicle/rv combinations. We recommend that you do not exceed the posted speed limit when towing an RV. Driving with the propane system on can add to the danger if you are involved in an accident or have a fire. Most refrigerators will keep food cold or frozen for eight hours without running while you travel. Shut the propane system off at the propane cylinder. Adverse weather conditions and extremes in terrain may affect the performance and handling of your tow vehicle. Do not operate the tow vehicle cruise control on icy or extremely wet roads, winding roads, in heavy traffic or in any other traffic situation where a constant speed cannot be maintained. You must observe the law if you are driving when operating a cell phone in your tow vehicle. If it is permitted to operate a cell phone while the tow vehicle is in motion, you must only operate it when road and traffic conditions permit. You may otherwise be distracted from the traffic conditions, cause an accident and injure yourself and others. DO NOT leave children or pets unsupervised in the vehicle (even if children are secured by a child restraint system) or RV. They could: Injure themselves on parts of the vehicle or RV. Unlock and open the entry door, or open the emergency exit window, and then possibly injure other persons or damage property. Get out of the vehicle or RV, and either injure themselves when doing so or they could be injured by passing vehicles. Be seriously or even fatally injured by prolonged exposure to extreme heat or cold. RV DRIVING SCHOOLS & SEMINARS If you have any concerns about driving while towing a RV, consult an expert for specific RV driver education. There are private RV schools and some RV owner's organizations that offer driving seminars. The schedules and locations of the various RV driver education seminars and schools can be researched through RV-related publications or by contacting your dealer for assistance. 61

74 SECTION 7 TOWING & HANDLING DRIVING & ALCOHOL Driving after drinking or taking drugs (including some prescriptions and/or overthe-counter medications) can lead to an accident. Studies have shown perceptions are less sharp, reflexes are slower, drowsiness may be experienced and/or judgment may be impaired. The presence of alcohol in significant levels in the blood increases the probability that the driver will be involved in an accident. Exercise your good judgment and encourage others to do the same. Know the legal alcohol limits and do not exceed them. Be aware of your personal limits, which may be lower than the legal limits. Should you ever exceed your limits or find your driving is impaired, find alternative transportation. NEVER DRINK AND THEN DRIVE. Figure 1 Breakaway switch and lanyard (cable) 7-WAY TRAILER PLUG There are two types of 7-way connectors: one has flat pins (which are often referred to as blades); the other has round pins. The round pin style is very rare. The RV style Pollak 7-way trailer plug with flat pins (or blades) is more common. BREAKAWAY SWITCH NEVER use the breakaway switch and trailer brake system as a parking brake. Doing so would create a high amp draw on the battery and converter. This can cause damage to wiring, connectors and the breakaway switch. The breakaway switch is a crucial part of the RV braking system. Located near the fifth wheel pin box, this switch will apply the trailer brakes if the RV becomes detached from the tow vehicle. Attach the breakaway switch lanyard (cable) to a permanent part of the tow vehicle when hitching the RV. If the RV becomes detached from the tow vehicle, the pull pin will be pulled from the switch. This automatically causes the switch to close and activates the RV brakes. An auxiliary battery must be purchased and correctly installed to activate the breakaway switch. Figure 2 Trailer plug on RV, shown extended through the storage compartment door Trailer plug storage compartment A 7-way wire harness/connector plug (also called the trailer plug) is wired into your RV to connect electrical power from the tow vehicle to the RV for travel. Generally speaking, it is located under the fifth wheel gooseneck, on the off-door side, near the pin box. Keep the trailer plug storage compartment door closed and locked to help prevent insects, rodents or other pests from entering. 62

75 SECTION 7 TOWING & HANDLING To use the trailer plug, unlock the compartment door and extend the wire harness, move the hinged slider tab over and insert the wire harness into the empty channel, then close and lock the trailer plug compartment door. Tow vehicle end of the 7-way plug When attaching wires to your tow vehicle, carefully and tightly tape all the connections for moisture protection. On the tow vehicle side, wire color alone should not be relied on, always test and match the function to the appropriate terminal. Figure 3 Trailer plug compartment door slider tab Trailer end of the 7-way plug The trailer plug supplies power to the RV brakes, tail lights, clearance lights, turn signals, brake lights, etc. Wiring to operate your brakes must be the same size in both the tow vehicle and RV (the RV brake wiring is 12-gauge wire). Figure 4 Trailer end (7-way plug) connector interior 7-way plug wiring code (trailer end) White 1 Common ground Blue 2 Electric brake Green 3 Running/tail lights Black 4 Auxiliary battery charge (+) Red 5 Stop/left turn Brown 6 Stop/right turn Yellow 7 Auxiliary/back up light It should be noted that the center terminal is labeled as an auxiliary circuit, most commonly used for backup lights (not a ground terminal as many try to make it). Figure 5 Tow vehicle end (7-way plug) connector 7-way plug wiring code (tow vehicle end) White 1 Common ground Blue 2 Electric brake Green 3 Running/tail lights Black 4 Auxiliary battery charge (+) Red 5 Stop/left turn Brown 6 Stop/right turn Yellow 7 Auxiliary/back up lights Maintenance The connector plug may build up corrosion with extended use and should be cleaned periodically to insure good electrical contact. Make sure the connector plug is kept clean and protected from road elements as you travel. When not in use, store the trailer plug and cable, and lock the compartment door. Generally speaking, RV's are wired to match the connector colors. Any plug that has been changed should be tested when replacing for any reason to be sure the function matches the terminal. MOR/RYDE PIN BOX SYSTEM The MOR/ryde pin box system utilizes a unique rubber shear spring to positively deal with rough, towing road shock. The rubber spring works in a horizontal planar motion (in a longitudinal and lateral motion) to absorb the towing shock. This allows the 63

76 SECTION 7 TOWING & HANDLING MOR/ryde pin box system to effectively diminish the transfer of forces from the RV to the tow vehicle. FIFTH WHEEL LANDING GEAR DO NOT USE THE FIFTH WHEEL LANDING GEAR TO SUPPORT THE TOW VEHICLE WEIGHT. The fifth wheel landing gear is designed to bear the front loaded weight of the RV only. Never exceed the rated capacity of an individual fifth wheel landing leg or system load ratings. Do not use the landing legs to lift the trailer during tire changes, axle work or trailer servicing (the trailer weight will exceed the capacity of the landing legs). If the fifth wheel landing legs are improperly used, the trailer could move or collapse, resulting in non-warrantable damage. The fifth wheel (FW) landing legs are used for positioning and stabilizing the RV during hookup and unhooking from the tow vehicle and as support during camping and storage. They are not designed to be the sole support for the weight of the RV during tire changes or servicing. The FW landing legs have three overlapping tubes: an outer housing, an inner ram and a drop tube with incremental adjustment holes. Figure 6 Typical FW landing gear system The pin between the ram and drop tube should be the same diameter as the adjustment hold in the drop tube. Otherwise, premature wear on the drop tube and ram can occur. To extend the power FW landing legs 1. Push the switch to the EXT position and hold until the ram (the middle tube) is halfway to the ground. This will optimize the overlap of all the tubes, thus minimizing trailer sway. 2. Pull the pin or disengage the pullpin and let the drop tube fall to the ground and re-pin in the nearest adjustment hole. 3. Continue extending the landing legs until the pin box Figure 7 Power FW landing gear switch disengages from the hitch and the weight of the RV is completely removed from the hitch. 4. When there is sufficient clearance between the pin box and hitch, move the tow vehicle clear of the RV. Then lower the RV until it is level, side-to-side and back-to-front. Generally, extend and retract on the switches refer to the travel direction of the legs, not of the trailer. Either at full extension or full retraction, you may hear a clicking or popping noise from the motor. This is the slipclutch built into the motor to protect it against overload or to prevent over-extension or over-retraction. Release the switch as soon as you hear this noise to prevent damage to the motor. 64

77 SECTION 7 TOWING & HANDLING If you hear this noise when the legs are neither fully extended, or fully retracted, one or both of the legs may be overloaded and you will need to shift items around in the RV or remove items from the RV. Continuing to operate the legs in an overloaded condition will lead to premature wear and unsatisfactory performance of the legs. To retract the power FW landing legs Push the switch to the RET position and hold the switch until the legs are fully retracted. Release the switch as the pin in the ram tube nears the end of the outer housing. Then remove the lock pin, or disengage the pull-pin, and release the drop tube, re-pinning it in the highest position. Fully retract the legs so that the foot pad is higher than the lowest point of the trailer, to prevent dragging while going over a curb. The FW landing gear must be fully retracted before moving or towing the RV to prevent damage. Damage caused by improper usage is not warrantable. Manual operation DO NOT attempt to use the hand crank at the same time the electric drive motor is being used. Remove the hand crank before using the electric motor. Failure to do so will allow the handle to jerk or spin around. In an emergency, the power FW landing gear can be operated manually. Carefully cut the wiring to the motor (there must be a sufficient length of wiring left for the tech to rewire the motor during the resulting repair. If the tech does not have a sufficient amount of wiring available the motor will have to be replaced as a customer purchased part). Then insert the hand crank into the alignment tube until the end engages and continue to either extend or retract the landing legs. Maintenance Inspect the pad tube and inner ram periodically. Yearly spray silicone in the inner tube and pad tube. Yearly spray silicone inside of handle alignment tube Yearly grease gears in gear box and at top of each leg with extreme pressure grease Yearly oil shaft bushings with S.A.E. 30 oil Twice a year clean your electrical connections with baking soda, then cover with a thin coat of grease. STABILIZER JACKS DO NOT USE THE STABILIZER JACKS TO LEVEL THE RV. It is important to remember that the stabilizer jacks are to be used only for support while occupying and moving around the RV. They are not designed to bear the weight of the RV. Before operating the rear stabilizer jacks, make sure the RV is parked on a level spot, wheel chocks in front and in back of the wheels on both sides and the FW landing gear extended (lowered) correctly so the RV is leveled front-to-back. The stabilizer jacks must be fully retracted before moving or towing the RV to prevent stabilizer jack damage. Power rear stabilizer jacks Figure 8 Power rear stabilizer LH & RH control switches 65

78 SECTION 7 TOWING & HANDLING To operate the power rear stabilizer jacks push the control switches (generally located in the front compartment) to extend or retract the rear stabilizer jacks. Each power rear stabilizer is independently switched. The power rear stabilizer jack system should be used to level the RV side-to-side and stabilize the RV at the same time. If the ground is soft, place supports under the rear landing pads to keep the fifth wheel stationary. Manual rear stabilizer jacks To manually operate the C-type telescoping rear stabilizer jacks: 5. Check your level gauge (customer purchase) to find the RV s lowest side. Crank down the stabilizers on the low side first, bringing the RV to a fine level position. 6. Crank down the stabilizers on the opposite side of the RV to insure maximum stability (side-to-side). Then re-snug the stabilizers on the low side of the RV if necessary. To raise the stabilizer jacks, crank up the stabilizers to the fully closed (travel) position. Tighten them ¼ turn to secure in travel position (this helps prevents the stabilizers from working open due to road vibration). Maintenance for the rear stabilizer jack Use small amounts of WD-40 or a similar lubricant on the drive screw threads and bolt locations as required. hitched up with the front too high, too much weight will be transferred to the rear of the unit, which can cause trailer sway. If it is hitched up too low, additional weight will bear down on the tow vehicle, exceeding the proper hitch weight. Because of the weight and critical nature of the pin box, consult with your dealer before attempting to alter the position of the pin box. Make sure all hardware is reinstalled and tightened correctly. Hitching your FW Hooking up a fifth wheel will become easier with practice. These instructions are general instructions applicable for most fifth wheel hitches. It is very important that you read and follow the specific instructions provided with your particular fifth wheel hitch. It is a good idea to discuss hitching procedures with your dealer. They can answer your questions, and offer helpful tips to make the procedure an easy one for firsttime fifth wheel owners. Be sure to talk with your tow vehicle dealer before selecting a hitch for your truck, making sure that it meets the specifications required. FIFTH WHEEL HITCHING PROCEDURE Follow any and all additional instruction outlined by the hitch manufacturer, tow vehicle dealer, and your RV dealer for proper hitching procedures. Since not all trucks and fifth wheel hitches are exactly the same size, it may be necessary to adjust the height of your fifth wheel pin box to achieve a level position. If the fifth wheel is Figure 9 Blocking the wheels When attaching the fifth wheel to the tow vehicle hitch, use the following steps: 1. Lower the tailgate of your tow vehicle. 2. Remove the latch pin from the hitch latch handle. Make sure that the hitch is in the unlatched position by pulling the hitch latch handle to the open position (check hitch manufacturer's specific instructions). 3. Place wheel chocks under both the front and back of the trailer's wheels (both sides). 66

79 SECTION 7 TOWING & HANDLING 4. Using the fifth wheel jacks, adjust the height of the kingpin plate until it is level with bearing plate on the tow vehicle hitch. 5. Slowly back the tow vehicle up until the kingpin is inserted past the jaw plates (or latch plate) of the hitch. Have someone assist you in this with the use of predetermined hand signals. Make sure this person is in view at all times and proceed slowly and cautiously. 6. Make sure the kingpin is completely inserted and locked in the hitch. 7. Close the coupler-latching lever; making sure that it is fully locked in place. Insert the lock pin in the latching lever. 8. Raise the fifth wheel jacks to their fully retracted position. 9. Raise and secure the tow vehicle tailgate. 10. Attach the breakaway switch cable to the tow vehicle. 11. Plug the 7-way trailer plug from the RV to the tow vehicle. 12. Remove the wheel chocks from the trailer wheels. Unhitching your FW DO NOT raise the fifth wheel jacks until you are sure the kingpin is fully engaged and locked in place in the fifth wheel hitch. To unhitch the fifth wheel from the tow vehicle hitch, proceed as follows: 1. Park the fifth wheel on a level spot, and place wheel chocks in front and in back of the wheels on both sides. 2. Lower the fifth wheel jacks until the weight of the fifth wheel is no longer on the tow vehicle. If the ground is soft, make sure to place supports under the jack pads to keep the fifth wheel stationary. 3. Disconnect the breakaway switch cable and the 7-way trailer plug. 4. Remove the latch pin from the hitch latch handle. Pull the hitch latch handle to the open position (check hitch manufacturer's specific instructions). 5. Move the tow vehicle slowly away from the fifth wheel. VEHICLE CLEARANCE Remember some bridges, older ones in particular, may not support the weight of your tow vehicle/rv combination. Know the weight and size of your towing combination and observe any posted weight and clearance limits. The added height of roof air conditioners, TV antennas or floodlights may cause clearance problems around some tunnels, canopies and hanging signs. It may be helpful to keep a reference card listing your RV height (include all roof attachments) and width in your tow vehicle driver s cockpit area. TOWING Your RV braking system is rated for operation at GVWR not GCWR. Whenever possible, do not travel with waste in the holding tanks. Liquid or debris in the holding tank(s) may affect the towing characteristics and may result in property damage or personal injury. You will find that your RV will travel safely and comfortably at most posted trailer highway speed limits. However, it will take longer than a passenger automobile to reach that speed. Keep this in mind when overtaking and passing another vehicle. Allow more time to go around the vehicle you are passing. You cannot cut back into the traffic lane as quickly due to the longer 67

80 SECTION 7 TOWING & HANDLING length of your tow vehicle/rv combination. Drive with caution to avoid situations that might require quick momentum changes. Even though your RV is equipped with brakes designed for GVWR, we suggest practicing stopping away from traffic until you become accustomed to your RV s stopping distance. A good way to practice is at a large parking lot (where it is permissible). Easing to a stop and starting smoothly saves wear and tear on your tow vehicle/rv combination. Drive defensively, try to anticipate problems that may occur and prepare for them (even if they may never happen). Be aware of road surface conditions. Slow down well in advance of dips and bumps to reduce the jolting to your tow vehicle/rv combination. Drive over them slowly and let the trailer tires pass over them before accelerating. Cross railroad tracks slowly (always release your brakes before crossing). When descending a long hill, drop down into a lower gear (or lower range if you have automatic transmission). Avoid conditions that require excessive and prolonged use of your brakes. Apply and release brakes at short intervals to give them a chance to cool. The tow vehicle transmission and engine will help in controlling downhill speed and can lengthen brake life. The distance required to stop the RV is greater than an automobile s. Use care when accelerating or decelerating on a slippery surface. Abrupt speed changes can cause skidding and loss of control. Driving through water deep enough to wet the brakes may affect stopping distance or cause the vehicle to pull to one side. Check the RV s brake operation in a safe area to be sure they have not been affected. Never operate any vehicle if a difference in braking efficiency is noticeable. Turning corners When turning, the tires do not follow the path of your tow vehicle tires. The RV will make a tighter turn than the tow vehicle. You must compensate for this action by carefully pulling the tow vehicle out into the intersection further than you would normally so that the RV clears the curb (or any parked vehicles along the curb). When making a turn, check the road clearance and be aware of others. Have someone help guide you out of a difficult parking space or traffic pattern. Swerves and sharp turns, especially at high speeds, could result in loss of control of the RV. Backing up If your camping destination does not have pull through sites, pick a level site and back in carefully. We suggest you stop near the site, get out of the RV and observe the surrounding area. Check to ensure there are no obstacles in your path and that you have plenty of vehicle clearance. Check for low-hanging tree limbs, posts, large rocks or other obstacles. Try to choose a site that is on the driver s side, so you can see what the rear of the RV is doing. With the site on the passenger side, you would be backing into the site on your blind side, which is more difficult. When you determine the site conditions are satisfactory, maneuver the RV into position for backing up into the site space. Back the RV up slowly using your tow vehicle mirrors as a guide. Have another person outside the RV assist you until the RV is parked in the desired position. BACKUP CAMERA SYSTEM The audible backup camera system requires 12-volt power from both your RV and tow vehicle to operate. The transmitter, located on the RV exterior, is powered by the auxiliary battery. The portable receiver/monitor must be plugged into your tow vehicle 12-volt DC outlet. This system operates at 2.4GHz and may interfere with or be interfered by devices that operate on the same frequency (i.e. cordless phones, garage door openers, wireless security systems). Encountering short periods of interference while driving is considered normal operation. If you experience 68

81 SECTION 7 TOWING & HANDLING severe interference or picture distortion, change the transmitting/receiving channel. If that does not improve the performance, look for an interference source near the vehicle and turn it off, keeping in mind that the interference source could be another vehicle with the same observation system. For optimum reception, place the portable receiver/monitor in the tow vehicle so that it is level with the transmitter located on the RV exterior, preferably at window level, allowing the wireless signal to transmit through glass. Locate the portable receiver/monitor where it will not obstruct your ability to safely operate and view outside your tow vehicle. When using the suction cup mount supplied, choose a smooth surface area free of texture or any film that would impede it's ability to grip firmly. The hole pattern on the back of the portable receiver/monitor is a standard cell phone mount pattern, allowing you many options. If choosing a mounting option other than the supplied suction cup mount, choose a mounting device suitable to sustain the combined weight of the portable receiver/monitor. transmitter. The channel switches for the receiver are located on the side of the receiver. The transmitter channel and receiver channel must be set to the same channel (1-4) to operate. Figure 11 Transmission channels 1-4 TOWING BEHIND YOUR RV Towing items behind your RV, or overloading the rear, will void the warranty and may result in damage to the RV or add-on items, towing difficulties, property damage and/or personal injury. Damage caused by improper towing is nonwarrantable. DO NOT tow anything behind your RV. The RV frame and bumper are not designed for towing. PARKING Figure 10 Suggested tow vehicle front windshield portable receiver/monitor mounting position Choosing a transmission channel The transmitter and receiver can operate on one of four different channels. The channel switches for the transmitter are located behind the rubber plug on the bottom outside of the After the RV is in the desired location, set the tow vehicle parking brake and place the transmission in park. Turn OFF the ignition switch. Go outside the RV and block all wheels securely with wheel chocks. The wheel chocks can be wood blocks or purchased items as long as they prevent the RV from rolling. Be aware of your surroundings. If parking at night at a rest stop, truck stop or parking lot choose a welllighted area. 69

82 SECTION 7 TOWING & HANDLING Here are some tips to keep in mind when parking in unfamiliar surroundings: Have a pre-determined plan of action Develop response plans for all situations. Dry-run typical situations as a way of making your responses to each simulation second nature. A cellular phone is a good investment to protect yourself, especially when traveling alone. Be alert to all situations Assess your surroundings to help anticipate possible problems and responses. If someone unfamiliar knocks on the door, do not open it until you are certain the request is legitimate and represents no possible harm to you or your RV. Trust your intuition This is a natural tool at your disposal. If something does not seem to be right, you may want to evacuate the vicinity immediately or call 911. Remember, nothing is 100 percent effective Do not rely on your dog or an alarm system, etc. Always remain wary. Developing these habits may help prevent loss to you or your property as you travel and enjoy your RV. away from the traffic approaching from behind. The hazard-warning flasher provides additional safety if the RV is stopped on the side of the roadway and presents a possible hazard to other motorists. When the flasher is on, it serves as a warning to others to approach and overtake your vehicle with caution. For personal safety, always stand off the road and out of the way of traffic. Curves and/or hills may affect the safe placement of warning indicators. EMERGENCY TOWING Never allow anyone to go under the RV while it is being lifted and/or being towed. If your RV needs to be towed, please contact an emergency road service provider or a qualified service facility for assistance. WHEEL LUG NUTS EMERGENCY STOPPING Always carry road flares or reflective warning signs to display if necessary. Pull off the roadway as far as possible for emergency stopping or tire changing. Turn ON your RV hazard warning flashers. If traveling at night, use three red warning indicators such as flares, reflectors or lanterns, as follows: 1. Place the first warning indictor on the traffic side of the RV, directed at the nearest approaching traffic. 2. Place the second warning indicator 100 feet behind the RV in the center of the lane and toward approaching traffic. 3. Place the third warning indicator 100 feet in front of the RV in the center of the lane and Wheel lug nuts must be applied and maintained at the proper torque levels to prevent loose wheels, broken studs and possible separation of the tire and wheel while driving, possibly resulting in property damage or personal injury. The lug nuts on the wheels of your RV must be maintained according to listed torque values in the Wheel Lug Torque Chart (refer to the Specifications & Glossary section of this manual). Over-torqued and/or under-torqued wheels may result in component failure. Torque is the amount of rotating force applied to a fastener, such as a lug nut. 70

83 SECTION 7 TOWING & HANDLING Proper torque of lug nuts can only be achieved by using a properly calibrated torque wrench and socket. Do not use a 4-way socket or any other type of wrench that does not measure the actual pressure applied to the lug nut. After your first trip, use a properly calibrated torque wrench to check the wheel lug torque periodically for safety. Check the wheel lugs after winter storage, after a wheel removal, before starting a trip or following extensive braking. Use the correct star pattern sequence, listed in the Wheel Lug Torque Chart, to attach the RV wheels. 1. Start all nuts by hand to prevent cross threading. 2. Tighten the nuts in the sequence shown. 3. Tighten the lug nuts equally in stages as indicated for your trailer's wheels. Check and re-torque after the first 10, 25 and 50 miles (16, 40 and 80 kilometers). Thereafter, check and maintain the torque according to the listed torque values in the Wheel Lug Torque Chart. RV TIRES Failure to follow proper inflation guidelines may result in tire failure, which, under certain circumstances can cause loss of vehicle control or accidents that may result in property damage, bodily injury and/or death. Read and understand the following before taking your first trip in your RV! Proper care and maintenance of your tires is essential to ensure your safety, as well as the safety of others, as you travel. Taking time to become educated on the special qualities of RV tires and care they require will enhance your travel enjoyment. Routine maintenance on your RV is important, but it cannot be overstated just how critical proper tire maintenance is to the safety, operation and durability of your RV. You must follow the manufacturer s inflation guidelines for maximum load capacity; under-inflation is just as dangerous as overinflation. It is recommended that the tire pressure be checked at the beginning of each journey to obtain the maximum life of the tire. Follow the instructions listed on the Federal Certification label, affixed to the roadside front corner of your RV, to determine the correct tire pressure. Underinflation may cause tire failures and swaying; this may result in loss of control, injury, property damage or death. To insure your tires are operating safely, regular inspection of your tires and checking tire pressures is absolutely mandatory. Examine your tires frequently for unusual wear. Alignment, balance and bearing wear will affect tire wear. Make sure to look for cracking, bulging, uneven tread wear, etc. Check and adjust tire pressures before and after each trip. Always check and adjust with the tires cold. Never add or release pressure from the tires when they are hot (or after having driven a mile or more). Replacement Be sure to use only tires that are rated for RV use. The use of passenger tires should be avoided. The load rating/range embossed on the sidewall of passenger tires must be de-rated accordingly; they do not have the same load capability as tires that are specifically identified for RV use. Failure to use tires that are properly matched to your RV could lead to premature tire wear or less than optimum trailer handling. 71

84 SECTION 7 TOWING & HANDLING When replacing a tire make sure to replace it with a tire of the same size and specifications (refer to the Federal Certification label.) If you experience a flat tire on your RV while driving, gradually decrease your vehicle speed (if possible). Hold the steering wheel firmly and move the RV to a safe place on the side of the road. Any service or warranty coverage on tires is to be handled by the tire store representing the brand installed on your RV; they are not to be returned to your dealer or Entegra Coach. If you have questions regarding your tires, contact the tire OEM or Entegra Customer Service. SPARE TIRE CARRIER Figure 12 Spare tire carrier The spare tire hoist is designed for manual use with a crank handle (or driving tool) only. An impact tool should never be used to operate the spare tire hoist as damage may result. The maximum capacity of the spare tire hoist is 100 lbs. (tire and wheel). To lower the spare tire 1. Locate the exterior access hole or hoist mechanism access. 2. Insert the crank handle (or driving tool) into the exterior access hole until the end of the driver comes into contact with the hoist drive feature. This may be a hex on the end of a drive extension tube, or an actuator feature on the end of the hoist drive shaft. 3. Rotate the crank handle and hoist the drive shaft in a counter-clockwise direction until the spare tire is lowered to the ground. On a one way hoist, continue to rotate the drive handle and the hoist drive shaft until a resistance stop is felt. This resistance/positive down stop is designed to stop the winch when the cable is fully extended. Do not continue to rotate. On a two way hoist the cable will start to wind back up if rotated past full out, this will not damage the hoist but will shorten the amount of cable extended and usable. 4. Take hold of the wheel/tire and pull it from under the RV as far as possible. Stowing the spare tire To attach the host lift plate to the wheel/tire assembly: Place the wheel/tire close enough to the RV for the hoist cable lift plate attached to reach the center of the wheel/tire. (Wheel must be positioned so that the tire valve stem is on the bottom side, pointing towards the ground.) Fold the cable over the lift plate, if necessary, and insert through the hole in the wheel. Make sure that the lift plate is all the way through the wheel. Pull the wheel/tire rearward, away from the RV so the hoist cable is taunt/tight, and the lift plate has the wheel opening on the steps of the lift plate. 72

85 SECTION 7 TOWING & HANDLING To raise & stow the wheel/tire assembly: Insert the crank handle (or driving tool) into the exterior hole or hoist mechanism access, and push it in until it is engaged in the driving feature of the hoist. (This may be a hex on the end of a drive extension tube or an actuator feature on the end of the hoist drive shaft.) Rotate the crank handle (or drive tool) clockwise until the wheel/tire assembly is pulled up under the RV and is pulled up against the bottom of the RV. Continue to rotate in a clockwise direction until at least two crisp breaks are felt or until clicks are heard. This stows the wheel/tire by forcing the hoist clutch through an overload condition. This has now raised the wheel/tire up under the RV and stowed it with the proper force to hold the wheel/tire assembly in place during RV use. Always check the wheel/tire assembly for looseness by pushing against or shaking it from underneath. The hoist can not be over tightened. Please refer to the spare tire stowing diagrams found in the Specifications and Glossary section of this manual. Maintenance Periodically check and pack the hoist assembly with rust preventive grease. 1. Keep the RV attached to the tow vehicle. Block the tire on the opposite side of the RV from the tire you are changing. 2. Loosen the wheel lugs on the tire you are changing before jacking up the RV. DO NOT remove the lug nuts; only loosen them for ease of removal when the tire is off the ground. 3. Locate the bottom of the main frame (above the one inch (1 ) trim molding which seams the black wrap metal and the galvanized underbelly metal). 4. To raise the RV, place the jack (hydraulic or screw) on the bottom of the main frame directly behind the tire on the side you wish to jack up. Damage to the RV caused by using a jack is not warrantable. CHANGING THE TIRE Never raise the RV by placing the jack under the axle, springs or any attachment parts. Failure to comply could result in property damage, personal injury or death. You may want to raise your RV with a jack to change a tire, adjust the brakes or repack the wheel bearings. Please use the following guidelines: 73

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87 SECTION 8 CAMPING & OPERATING By purchasing your RV you have entered into a lifestyle that encourages long-lasting friendships. People who camp next to one another for a few days are allowed the unique opportunity to cultivate new acquaintances and neighbors. Camping is a great way to relax and enjoy the great outdoors with your family and friends. Searching for the right campground prior to traveling might be the first step in selecting your site. Some campgrounds accept advance reservations (recommended depending on your travel destination and the season of the year, especially holidays). With time, you will know what you are looking for and what best fits your needs. If you are traveling with pets, we encourage you to research the campground policy regarding pets. A few items to keep in mind when selecting your campsite are: Arrive before dark, if possible, to make the site selection easier. Is the ground level? This will help with leveling your RV and making your stay more comfortable. Is there plenty of space? Will it accommodate slideout, awnings, etc.? Is there room for picnic tables, lawn chairs, campfire, etc.? Is it void of hanging limbs that may damage your unit? Is it located in a convenient area? Will you be able to park close enough to hookups (water, sewer, electric)? Are you away from noisy areas or things that might detract from a positive experience? Is there plenty of shade? Is there good drainage in case of bad weather? Some campgrounds will post a set of rules for you to see when you check in, but your fellow campers will count on your basic good manners and courtesy. Show respect to others, don t make shortcuts through occupied campsites. Please remember to tread lightly on our beautiful land and leave only your footprints so that others may enjoy nature as much as you did. Keep your campsite tidy. Please put refuse in containers provided for that purpose, and please avoid contaminating any lake or stream. EXTENDED DRY CAMPING Continuous living in your RV could cause accelerated wear and damage to component parts. Use of the RV other than for its intended purpose of recreational travel and camping may affect your warranty coverage. Your RV has been built for enjoyment in a recreational manner. It is not intended to be used as full-time living quarters. COLD WEATHER USAGE Proper care should be taken when planning to use your RV in cold weather. Please keep in mind that your RV was not designed for use during sub-freezing weather. When used in freezing or below freezing temperatures, the following precautions need to be taken: More protection (customer supplied) will be needed to protect the fresh water and drainage systems to avoid freezing problems. Winterize your RV. Propane and sufficient power is needed for protection from possible freeze-ups on the propane regulator. Keep in mind that more frequent furnace operation will substantially increase battery draw and propane use. During cool weather usage, ventilation or the addition of a dehumidifier may be required to reduce condensation. Check outside extrusions on compartment doors, locks, slide outs, windows, vents, etc., for frozen moisture before operating to avoid damage to parts. 75

88 SECTION 8 CAMPING & OPERATING CONDENSATION Condensation needs to be taken seriously. Ignoring it can damage the RV (damage caused by condensation is not warrantable), and more importantly could lead to mold or mildew issues which could be a health hazard. Condensation is a natural phenomenon. The amount of condensation will vary with climate conditions, particularly the relative humidity. Condensation occurs because there is water vapor present in the air, which each of us adds to by breathing, bathing or cooking. The water vapor usually collects on the coolest surfaces. When the temperature reaches the dew point, the water vapor in the air condenses and changes to a liquid form. If moisture is unable to escape the RV, you will experience condensation. Most people have experienced this phenomenon when moisture forms on their windows. Outside air is cooling the window on the outside while inside air is warming the window on the inside; the resulting moisture is attracted to that surface and the windows begin to sweat. To reduce condensation Proper ventilation and, if needed, the use of a dehumidifier (customer supplied) will assist in controlling condensation. Many RV and marine dealers carry small dehumidifiers sized for RV use. Other suggestions are: Crack open windows and roof vents to allow warm moist air to escape. When taking a shower open the bath roof vent approximately ½ allowing the moisture to escape. Use the range hood fan when cooking or washing dishes. Avoid hanging wet towels or clothes inside the RV to dry. If condensation is found in cabinets or closets, open those doors slightly to equalize the temperature and provide ventilation. KEYS Several keys are provided when you purchase your RV. Most keys have an individual key number stamped on the plate. Record these key numbers and keep the information in a safe place. You can order a key blank from your dealer to have duplicate keys made. If you lose the keys, contact your dealer or a locksmith for assistance. Make sure the keys are not inside the RV before you close and lock the entrance door. ENTRANCE DOOR Make sure the entrance door is completely closed and locked when traveling. Locking the door helps prevent it from opening unintentionally. The entrance door is located on the curbside of the RV. Always hold onto the entrance door when opening or closing it as damage caused because you failed to do so is not warrantable. BE SAFE, LOOK BEFORE ENTERING OR EXITING YOUR RV! POWER SLIDE OUT SYSTEM The slide out system must be retracted for travel. Do not tow your RV without securing each individual slide out room in the closed (retracted) position. There are three basic types of slide out (SO) systems: 12-volt DC electric motor, high pressure hydraulic and hybrid systems. Your RV is equipped with a 12-volt DC electric motor slide out system. With a simple touch of a few buttons, you can increase the living space in your RV. 76

89 SECTION 8 CAMPING & OPERATING The RV slide out system is controlled by a master lockout control switch. Each individual slide out room is controlled by its own separately labeled control switch, a slide out control box and slide out motor. Figure 1 Typical exterior slide out room control box (and motor) compartment Master lockout switch The power slide out system is equipped with a master lockout switch (labeled as the SO shut off switch ). This safety lockout control switch is typically located behind an interior cabinet door. Do not remove the following master lockout switch operation instruction label: Figure 2 Master lockout switch Figure 4 Typical slide out room control switches The label abbreviations refer to the position of the individual slide out room in relation to the entry door: ODS means OFF door side and DS means door side. To operate the slide out system press and hold the master lock out switch (Fig. 2) continuously with one hand, and momentarily push the slide room control switch (Fig. 4) for the slide out room you wish to extend (or retract) with your other hand. Slide out room control box Generally speaking, the slide room control boxes are located in the Maxi compartment, an exterior compartment or an interior cabinet door. Figure 3 Slide out ON\OFF switch must Slide out room control switch The slide out control switch automatically alternates the direction of the individual slide out room each time the switch is pressed (extending or retracting the slide room). Figure 5 Typical slide room controller If the slide room control box is located in an exterior compartment, do not remove the following label from the compartment area: Figure 6 This is not a storage 77

90 SECTION 8 CAMPING & OPERATING HIDE-A-BED SOFA WITH AIR MATTRESS seat cushion to access the storage area underneath. GLIDER/ROCKER RECLINER CHAIRS Figure 7 HAB sofa w/ air mattress (shown with storage drawer open) The hide-a-bed (HAB) sofa functions much the same as a residential HAB sofa. To make the HAB sofa into a bed, remove the seat back cushions and pull the sofa back towards you firmly and gently. Activate (or deflate) the air mattress using the supplied furniture manufacturer s instructions. To convert the hide-a-bed back into the upright sofa position, reverse the process. HAB storage drawer Gently pull out the HAB sofa kickboard to access the storage drawer. The HAB storage drawer must be closed securely for transit. Damage caused by overloading the HAB storage drawer is not warrantable. Like a residential glider/rocker recliner chair, your recliner has side controls allowing you to recline the chair. To revert the recliner chair back to the upright position, depress the side control and gently apply pressure to the recliner leg rest. Refer to the furniture manufacturer s care instructions for this product. Furniture transit & storage Some models require you to position the furniture in specific locations for the slide rooms to retract (or extend) correctly for storage or transit. Prevent the furniture from rubbing together and causing nonwarrantable wear by placing a towel or blanket around the furniture for protection during transit. TV FLIP UP STORAGE FREE-STANDING TABLE & CHAIRS The free-standing dinette table can be positioned to seat up to four people. To prevent damage, the freestanding dinette chairs should be fastened securely at the dinette table when you are traveling. Dinette chairs w/ flip up storage Lift up the dinette chair Figure 8 Dinette chair (flip up storage shown) Figure 9 TV flip up storage On most models, there are hidden storage shelves behind the LCD TV s (bedroom and main living area). To access this storage, gently lift up on the grooved in area of the TV hardwood frame to extend the flip up mounting brackets. Gently lower the TV hardwood frame when closing. 78

91 SECTION 8 CAMPING & OPERATING AUDIO/VISUAL INTERIOR SYSTEM TV ANTENNA & CABLE RG-6 coax runs from the TV antenna and exterior cable TV connector to a wall plate near the dedicated television space. The television entertainment system will not run cable television on one television set and local stations off the other set without customer modification. You can either view local stations or you can view cable television. Figure 10 Typical A/V control center and DVD player Your RV interior audio/visual (A/V) system includes some or all of the following components: AM/FM/CD stereo (with surround sound speakers, subwoofer and remote), the TV s and a DVD player. For more information, please refer to the Audio/Visual diagram found in the Specifications and Glossary section of this manual. TV POWER BOOSTER Figure 11 Typical TV power supply For good station reception, the TV power booster (also referred to as the TV antenna supply) must be turned ON to view local television stations. Turning the TV power booster ON sends 12-volt DC through the cable to the TV roof antenna. The voltage energizes the transistors in the antenna head amplifier. The TV signal then comes down the cable to the outlets. Turn the TV power booster OFF to view cable television or to use a VCR or DVD. Figure 12 AntennaTek TV antenna DO S Check your parking location for obstructions before raising the TV antenna. Carefully raise, lower and rotate the TV antenna. If this is difficult, check for a cause. Rotate slowly when selecting a station and check fine tuning on your TV set to make sure it is properly adjusted. ALWAYS lower the TV antenna before moving your RV. Perform the recommended vendor maintenance for optimal performance. DONT'S Don t force the elevating crank up or down. Don t rotate the directional handle hard against stops. Don t travel with the TV lift in the up position. Don t leave the TV lift part way up or down. Don t apply sealing compound or paint over top of base plate or anywhere on lift. 79

92 SECTION 8 CAMPING & OPERATING Raising the TV antenna Make sure the TV power supply is ON to use the TV outlet. Rotate elev. handle clockwise. When the antenna reaches its raised position, resistance will be felt in the handle, this indicates the antenna is fully extended. DO NOT APPLY EXCESSIVE FORCE. Lowering the TV antenna Insure that the pointers on the ceiling plate and the rotation handle are aligned. Rotate elevation handle counterclockwise until you hear the antenna touch the roof (resistance will be felt in the handle). Warning!!! Lowering the antenna without aligning the pointers, may damage the antenna. EXTERIOR TV CONNECTIONS & SPEAKERS Figure 14 Exterior speakers, unlatched SATELLITE DISH Please contact DirectTV if you have any questions about setting up, operating or serving the satellite dish. Their phone number is RVDTV ( ) EXTERIOR CABLE & SATELLITE JACKS Your RV is prepped for cable and satellite hookup. Generally speaking, these exterior RG-6 coax jack connections are located on the off-door side (ODS) by the shore line power cord receptacle. Figure 13 Exterior cable & satellite coax cover, closed For information on how to hookup your exterior satellite (customer purchased), please refer to the Audio/Visual diagram found in the Specifications and Glossary section of this manual. Figure 15 Exterior TV connection & speaker control switches You can connect a TV (customer supplied) to the exterior TV connection located in the Maxi compartment. Use the speaker control switches to run sound through the exterior speakers. The exterior speakers should be latched up in the travel position when not in use. CENTRAL VACUUM The RV must be hooked up to (and be operating on) 120-volt AC power for the central vacuum system to be operational. The vacuum will automatically begin to operate when the hose wall fitting is inserted into the central vacuum wall port. The vacuum will automatically cease to operate when the hose wall fitting is extracted from the central vacuum wall port. 80

93 SECTION 8 CAMPING & OPERATING All types of washing machine units require winterization prior to putting the RV into cold weather storage. Please refer to the appliance vendor manual for operating, winterization and maintenance instructions. If you have further questions, please contact your dealer or Entegra Customer Service. Do not remove the following label from the RV: Figure 16 Typical central vacuum system Change the vacuum filter bags regularly to maintain maximum vacuuming power. The filter is located inside the central vacuum assembly that is in turn located inside the Maxi compartment. DO NOT PICK UP FLAMMABLE OR COMBUSTIBLE LIQUIDS SUCH AS GASOLINE, OR USE IN AREAS WHERE THEY MAY BE PRESENT. RV damage, personal injury, or death may result from vacuuming up flammable or combustible material. Figure 17 Remove sewer cap... Washer/dryer prep If your RV is prepped for a washer/dryer system and you wish to add the appliance at a later date, you can purchase appliances (include the dryer vent), and new, vented cabinet doors (if needed) from your dealer. DO NOT PICK UP ANYTHING THAT IS BURNING OR SMOKING, SUCH AS CIGARETTES, MATCHES, OR HOT ASHES. RV damage, personal injury, or death may result from vacuuming up burning or smoking material. WASHER/DRYER Having a washer/dryer unit on board can save the inconvenience of interrupting a camping trip to visit the laundromat every few days. RV washing machines and dryers are available in either a stackable or combination unit. Stackable systems allow the user to launder larger loads, while combination components are designed to save space. Figure 18 Typical W/D prep cabinet location Generally speaking, to install a washer/dryer system: 1. BEFORE cutting into your RV sidewall and installing the dryer vent, check to see if the following label is affixed to your RV: 81

94 SECTION 8 CAMPING & OPERATING SAFE-LOCK BOX Figure 19 When installing dryer vent 2. If you cannot locate the label, contact your dealer or Entegra Customer Service for assistance in locating the dryer vent cutout installation area. 3. Remove the cabinet doors. 4. Remove the shelving and brackets. 5. Locate the plumbing lines and water faucets. 6. Remove the cap from the drainpipe and install the drain hose. 7. Connect the appliance power cord to the wall outlet. 8. Position the appliances in cabinet. 9. Install the new replacement vented cabinet doors (if required as per the appliance manufacturer specifications). Otherwise, reinstall your original cabinet doors. 10. Follow the operating instructions included with the washer dryer. To prevent negative air pressure while operating the washer/dryer, vented doors should be installed at the appliance cabinet. If the cabinet is not designed with vented doors, leave the cabinet doors open while the appliance is in use. Figure 20 When installing a dryer in this cabinet... Damage caused by aftermarket parts is nonwarrantable. Your RV has a safe-lock box mounted on the floor of the closet. The safe-lock box is intended to help to safeguard valuable items. Entegra Coach cannot be held liable for loss of personal property that is placed within the safe-lock box. REFRIGERATOR If you smell propane gas STOP! Follow the directions located in your vendor supplied operator manual and in this manual. The storage of flammable materials behind or around the refrigerator creates a fire hazard. Do not use the area behind the refrigerator to store anything, especially flammable materials (gasoline, cleaning supplies, etc.). After a period of storage, it is especially important to check these areas for any flammable material or blockage caused by animals. Unlike a residential refrigerator, your RV refrigerator operates on gas absorption. It is important to keep an RV refrigerator level during operation to avoid irreparable damage. The refrigerator is made to operate within 3 off level side-to-side and 6 off level front-toback (as looking at the front of the refrigerator). Operating it at more than these limits can cause damage to the cooling system and create a risk of personal injury or property damage. Start up the refrigerator and let it cool for eight hours before loading it with food. If the refrigerator does not start to cool down after about two hours, contact your dealer for assistance. The refrigerator is not intended for quick freezing or cooling. We recommend stocking it with pre-frozen or pre-cooled food when possible. 82

95 SECTION 8 CAMPING & OPERATING For the best cooling performance: Let air move freely inside the entire food compartment. Do not cover the shelves with plastic, paper, etc. To decrease the amount of ice that collects on the cooling fins: Cover all liquids and moist foods. Let all hot foods cool before putting them in the refrigerator. Do not open the door any longer than necessary. The freezer compartments are made to keep pre-frozen food frozen and not to quick freeze food. Door latch During travel, the door latch prevents the door from opening. When closing each door, push the door toward the refrigerator until you hear a click sound. To open each door, pull the handle away from the refrigerator. During storage, the storage latch prevents the door from completely closing. Use it to prevent odors when the refrigerator is stored for an extended period of time. Maintenance Your refrigerator will give you years of trouble free service if you do these simple checks every three to six months: Keep the food compartment and the freezer clean. Defrost the refrigerator as necessary. Make sure the door seals correctly. Be aware of any cooling changes that are not because of weather, loading, or control changes. If changes occur, contact your dealer. Make sure the air flow in the lower intake vent, through the refrigerator coils and condenser, and out the upper exhaust vent is not blocked or decreased. Make sure the area behind the refrigerator is clear. Do not use the area behind the refrigerator for storage of anything, especially combustible materials, especially gasoline and other flammable vapors and liquids. Make sure the refrigerator roof vent is unobstructed and cleared of debris. ICEMAKER The ice maker is assembled to the refrigerators by the vendor as optional equipment. Generally speaking, if a newer refrigerator does not have a vendor installed ice maker, one cannot be added to the refrigerator at a later time; however, check with your dealer or the refrigerator manufacturer to confirm if an icemaker can or cannot be added to your appliance. The ice maker is fully automatic and will operate in ambient temperatures as low as 0 F. To allow operation at temperatures between 0 F and 32 F., the ice maker has a heater on the solenoid water valve and on the water line between the solenoid valve and the ice maker. At temperatures below 0 F, store the ice maker as directed by the vendor. The water line heater does not protect the water supply line from the RV shut off valve to the solenoid valve on the back of the refrigerator. If you operate the refrigerator without connecting the water supply line and/or opening the water shut off valve of the vehicle, make sure the ice maker arm is up in the OFF position. When the freezer temperature of the refrigerator is low enough, the ice maker opens the water solenoid valve and fills the mold. The ice maker ejects the frozen ice into a storage bin. As the storage bin fills, the ice raises the shut-off arm until it turns off the ice maker. As you use the ice and lower the ice level in the storage bin, the shut-off arm also lowers. This turns the ice maker ON and begins the process of making ice. New plumbing connections and/or impurities in the water supply line after winterizing can cause the first ice to be discolored or have an 83

96 SECTION 8 CAMPING & OPERATING odd flavor. Foul odor or bad taste in the ice cubes usually means it is time to replace the filter. Sometimes ice will also absorb odor in the refrigerator and freezer. In that instance, discard the ice, dispose of old foods, thoroughly clean the refrigerator, including the ice bin, and add deodorizers specially designed for use in the refrigerator and freezer. Winterization Unlike large homes, the oxygen supply inside a RV is limited. The following warning label is located in the kitchen area to remind you to provide an adequate amount of fresh air for combustion. To avoid danger of asphyxiation, provide proper ventilation when using the gas range top or gas oven. Do not remove the following label from your RV: Figure 22 It is not safe to use cooking appliances... Figure 21 Icemaker water valve access, located behind the refrigerator (remove the exterior refrigerator vent). It will be necessary to winterize the icemaker during cold weather storage. Consult the vendor operator s manual for instructions. When putting the icemaker back into use after winterizing, discard the first few trays of ice that can contain contaminants. COOKING WITH PROPANE Do not use portable fuel burning equipment (i.e., wood and charcoal grills or stoves) inside the RV. KITCHEN STOVE, RANGE OR OVEN Never leave cooking food unattended. Turn pan handles inward, but not over the tops of the other range burners. Ensure that pans used are large enough to contain the food and avoid boil-overs. Heavy splattering or spills left on the cook top can ignite and cause burns. If using glass, glass/ceramic, ceramic, earthenware or other glazed utensils (or cookware) verify it is safe for use on the top burners. Only certain types of utensils (or cookware) are suitable for surface or top burner use. Space is limited so plan ahead when it comes to stocking your kitchen. Use cookware that is easy to store and can provide multiple use. For example, instead of multiple bowls, purchase bowls that can be used to mix, bake and serve all-in-one. Carefully stow glassware to avoid breakage while traveling. Stow dry foods inside plastic boxes to prevent spills from falling over. Do not turn the gas range burner controls ON and allow propane gas to escape before lighting. 84

97 SECTION 8 CAMPING & OPERATING During and after use, do not touch or let clothing or other flammable material come in contact with the top burners (or heating elements), burner grates or other areas near the top burners or oven until they have had sufficient time to cool. These areas can get hot enough to cause burns. Stove (or range) Follow the vendor supplied instructions for operation, maintenance and winterization. To prevent damage, always use the vendor recommended size flat bottom pan(s). Generally, the pan should be large enough to cover the burner, but not be more than one inch larger than the burner grate. Do not use a broiler pan, griddle or any other large utensil that covers more than one burner at a time. This will create excessive heat that may cause melting, sooting or discoloration. In addition, the use of undersized pans could expose a portion of the heating element to direct contact and may result in ignition of clothing. Proper relationship of pans to burner will improve efficiency. Bi-fold range cover To open the bi-fold range cover, lift and fold it back until it stands vertically by itself. To close the bi-fold range cover, first raise it straight up (vertically) before starting to pull it downwards. Do not remove the following label from the bifold range cover: Figure 24 You must remove this cover... Oven Do not cover the oven vent openings while the oven is in operation. Restricting the flow of combustion air will create an asphyxiation hazard. Follow the vendor supplied instructions for operation, maintenance and winterization. The propane gas oven must have 12-volt power to operate. If you have any questions contact your dealer or Entegra Customer Service. Do not use the oven as a storage area. RANGE HOOD WITH EXHAUST FAN Figure 23 Typical bi-fold range cover, open position The bi-fold range cover provides extra countertop space when closed. The range hood fan found in most RV's is a simple 12 volt motor that rotates a fan blade and exhausts cooking odors and steam out of the exhaust vent. Most range hoods use a charcoal based system to help eliminate odors. It draws air in and an aluminum filter element eliminates airborne grease. While being drawn in, the air flow passes through a charcoal system helping eliminate cooking odors. The clean and filtered air is directed upward away from the stove and range hood. 85

98 SECTION 8 CAMPING & OPERATING Clean the range hood fan and filter frequently. IN CASE OF A GREASE FIRE Do not attempt to use water to put out the fire. Water can spread some types of fire, and electrocution is possible with an electrical fire. Grease is flammable. Never allow grease to collect around top burners or on the cook top surface. Wipe spills immediately. If a fire does start, execute your family safety plan immediately. If there is time, try following these basic safety rules: Try to smother a flaming pan with a tightfitting lid or cookie sheet. Never pick up a flaming pan. Flaming grease outside of the pan can be extinguished with baking soda or a multipurpose dry chemical or foam-type fire extinguisher. MICROWAVE OVEN Make sure there is sufficient 120-volt power available before operating the microwave oven. If you exceed your 50-amp limit you will trip the RV circuit breakers. Follow the vendor supplied instructions for operation, maintenance and storage of the microwave. Avoid metal cookware when using the microwave setting and use only microwave safe baking dishes. Wipe foods and spills from oven interior when cooled with a soft cloth dampened in water. Wash the glass tray in mild soap when soiled. Ensure the glass tray (if so equipped) is secured prior to traveling. Microwave Convection Oven The microwave/convection oven component is simply two ovens in one and instructions are self-guided using the control panel on the oven face. Setting the clock is necessary before either oven feature will operate. Models with a factory installed microwave convection oven in the kitchen area come with a range top and base cabinetry with a shelf (the oven is omitted). LAZY SUSAN Figure 25 Lazy susan (and trash can) Most models come with a lazy susan, typically located in a lower kitchen cabinet. To prevent non-warrantable damage, ensure items stored in the lazy susan are secured for travel. PANTRY Depending on the kitchen layout of your RV, you may have a pantry that you can use to store items you wish to take with you as you travel and camp. Ensure items stored in the pantry are secured so they do not shift during travel. The cabinetry has been designed to accommodate the normal camping items (i.e., paper plates, flatware, cookware, etc.) which are bulky but not necessarily heavy. Remember your RV s load capacity is designed by weight, not volume, so you cannot necessarily use all available space. 86

99 SECTION 8 CAMPING & OPERATING DUCTING & RETURN AIR All heat discharges, registers and return air grills must be free and clear of obstructions. This includes all closeable registers that are intended to reduce airflow, not shut it off completely. The built in rain sensor closes the dome and turns off the fan blade when the sensor becomes wet (the dome reopens when the sensor dries). A rain sensor shut off switch and a back up manual dome open/close knob are also provided. 12-VOLT VENTILATION FAN The three speed (1-low, 2-medium or 3-high) 12-volt DC ceiling ventilation fan (or powered roof vent) in the commode area allows fresh air to circulate through the RV. The fan blade activates when the vent lid is opened approximately 2". Figure 26 Typical exterior ventilation fan Placing a vent cover over the ventilation fan or using a foam filter is not recommended. This greatly restricts airflow, causing accumulation of dust and increased sound levels. Do not leave the ventilation fan in active mode or open while the RV is stored or unattended for extended periods of time. High winds, other unusual conditions or obstructions may prevent the dome from closing, resulting in leakage that could cause serious non-warrantable damage. Rain sensor option Activate the Fantastic Fan using the portable radio frequency handheld remote. With the automatic mode, you select your comfort setting and the blades will automatically turn ON/OFF, increase or decrease speed to maintain your temperature choice. Manual mode allows you to select OFF or different fan blade speed settings. The vent is equipped with a reversible airflow switch (In or Out air flow), and a rain sensor. Figure 28 Fantastic Fan w/ rain sensor and wall remote Maintenance Periodically check for accumulated debris. If found, remove the vent screen and fan blades, and wash gently with window cleaner, or non-abrasive dish soap and warm water. Reinstall the vent screen and fan blades when clean and dry. Do not use the ventilation fan without properly installed vent screen and fan blades. THERMOSTAT The Comfort Control wall thermostat requires 12-volt DC to operate the RV heating and cooling systems. Turn the on/off switch to ON and press the zone button until the system cycles to the Cool mode. Use the Up and Down buttons to set the desired temperature. If your Comfort Control is equipped with a Fan setting, press the button to choose a speed. In Auto Fan Figure 27 Temperature wall sensor Figure 29 Typical thermostat mode the system will selfregulate the fan. Do not remove the temperature wall sensors from your RV. Maintenance Avoid directly spraying cleaning agents on the Comfort Control; instead use a soft damp cloth to wipe the box. 87

100 SECTION 8 CAMPING & OPERATING 12 Volts DC operate the Comfort Control box. If the thermostat fails to operate, check the fuse, which is generally located on the interior fuse panel. AIR CONDITIONER Your RV has a roof mounted air conditioning (A/C) system that is thermostatically controlled. Cooled air enters the RV through the adjustable chill grill. Make sure you have sufficient power available before operating the air conditioner. To help keep your RV cool, start using the air conditioner system to cool the interior early in the day, close your window treatments to reduce glare and keep trips in and out of the entry door to a minimum. switch must also be ON for the roof A/C to operate. Heat pump The optional 15,000 BTU air conditioner, located in the living area, comes with a heat pump. When outside temperatures drop below 35 degrees, the heat pump automatically turns off and switches to the gas furnace, giving you uninterrupted comfort. A/C prep If your RV was ordered with this feature the wiring is installed to add a second roof A/C, usually located in the bedroom area. There will be a sticker or other location indicator on the ceiling area showing the general location of the wiring. If you have any questions, please consult your dealer. Damage caused by aftermarket parts or installation is not warrantable. Maintenance Regularly inspect the exterior roof shroud for bird nests or other debris that may restrict proper ventilation. Road vibration can cause the roof shroud to loosen. The four mounting screws located at the roof shroud should be checked and tightened snugly at least twice each year. Figure 30 Typical roof air conditioners During high humidity weather set the air conditioning system to High instead of Auto. This will help to move more air over the coils and reduce moisture build up. Slightly open a window or ceiling vent to help cycle the air. Low voltage Low voltage will affect your A/C operation. When the shore power supply is limited, other appliances in the RV are competing with the air conditioner system for amperage or the power supply at a campground has maxed out, then it may be necessary to run the generator (if so equipped) for maximum A/C efficiency. If the roof A/C fails to operate, check the circuit breakers. The master battery Figure 31 Typical Chill Grill filter access Inside the ceiling mount is a removable filter that must be washed every two weeks while the RV is in use. Operating the roof A/C with a clogged filter reduces the flow of air across the cooling coils. Operating the system without the filter allows the lint and dirt that is normally stopped by the filter to accumulate on the cooling coil and can cause the system to freeze up. This also will lead to a loss of air volume, possible equipment damage and an expensive cleaning process. 88

101 SECTION 8 CAMPING & OPERATING Wash the filter in warm water and mild detergent. Rinse thoroughly and then allow the filter to completely dry before reinstalling. Do not operate the A/C system without the air filter in place. The roof A/C is installed using a foam base gasket. Mounting bolts are used to secure this gasket, and can be found beneath the inside roof mount. (In some model units the mounting bolts are located under the roof mount and behind a metal faceplate.) Depending on the model type, there may be two or four bolts. Road vibration can cause these mounting bolts to loosen over time. Twice annually check and torque the mounting bolts and compress the foam base gasket to onehalf inch. DO NOT over tighten these bolts as it may damage the foam base gasket. The foam base gasket is a wearable part that eventually will need to be replaced as maintenance. FURNACE Do not install screens over the vent for any reason. Screens will become restricted and cause unsafe furnace operation. For your safety, only OEM factory authorized parts are to be used on your furnace. Do not operate the furnace while the RV is in motion or being towed. The RV furnace installed in the RV is controlled by the thermostat. The furnace requires both 12-volt power and propane gas for full operation. Make sure you have sufficient power available before operating your furnace. If you have any questions contact your dealer or Entegra Customer Service. Always follow the OEM supplied operating instructions. Do not deviate from these stepby-step procedures. Before operating the furnace, check the location of the furnace vent to make sure it will not be blocked by the opening of any door on the RV, and never operate the furnace with the vent covered. If considering add-on rooms, porch or patio, attention must be given to the venting of your furnace. For your safety, do not terminate the furnace vent inside any add-on rooms, screen porch or onto patios. Doing so will result in products of combustion being vented into the room or occupied areas. It is imperative that the products of combustion be properly vented to atmosphere and that all combustion air supplied to the burner be drawn from outside atmosphere. Maintenance Periodically inspect the furnace venting. Venting must be free of obstructions, void of soot and properly terminated to the atmosphere. Soot is formed whenever combustion is incomplete. This is your visual warning that the furnace is operating in an unsafe manner. If soot is present, immediately shut the furnace down and contact your dealer for repair assistance. Periodically observe the main burner flame to assure it is burning with a hard blue flame with well defined burner ports. If flame appears yellow or the burner has a lazy flame, shut the furnace down and contact your dealer for repair assistance. Keep the furnace clean. More frequent cleaning may be required due to excessive lint from carpeting, bedding material, etc. It is imperative that control compartments, burners and circulating air passageways of the appliance be kept clean. A qualified RV technician should perform all furnace maintenance at least once a year (more often depending on furnace usage). Do not attempt to repair the furnace yourself. 89

102 SECTION 8 CAMPING & OPERATING FIREPLACE The electric fireplace is hot when in use. To avoid burns, do not let bare skin touch hot surfaces. The trim around the heater outlet becomes hot during heater operation. The fireplace is not intended for use by young children or infirmed persons without supervision. If your fireplace heater does not emit heat, ensure the main ON/OFF switch is ON and the fireplace thermostat is turned fully to the right. If this does not work, switch the fireplace OFF for 5 minutes and try again. Consult the vendor manual for further information. If you have further questions, please contact your dealer or Entegra Customer Service. switch is: OFF, High, Medium, Low, OFF. The slide switch (located on the fan) controls the direction of operation (down for forward, up for reverse). Stop the fan first before reversing the operation direction! Figure 33 Ceiling fan (wall control switch shown in inset photo) During cooler temperatures, set your fan settings to "low," and set the fan to turn clockwise to pull warm air from the ceiling back towards the floor. In the summer, the fan should turn counterclockwise to keep air moving. PATIO AWNINGS All awnings must be closed (and locked) while the RV is in transit. Figure 32 Typical RV electric fireplace The heater on your fireplace may emit a slight, harmless odor when first used. This odor is a normal condition caused by the initial heating of internal heater parts and should not occur again. CEILING FAN Be careful to avoid placing any object in the path of the ceiling fan blades! Ceiling fans are both functional and decorative. Turn the ceiling fan ON/OFF using the interior wall switch. The 3-speed ceiling fan is controlled by the pull chain switch. The sequence of operation for the pull chain Patio awnings extend your living space outdoors, and provide shade inside and out when camping. The 12-volt Travel r steep pitch patio awning reduces worry about water pooling on your canopy. Figure 34 Travel'r patio awning control switch Generally speaking, the Travel r patio awning wall control switch is located in the Maxi compartment. To operate the patio awning press and hold the wall control switch until the awning is in the desired position, then release the switch. Emergency override If the original power source fails or is unavailable, the 12-volt Travel'r patio awning has emergency override terminals. Please refer to the OEM awning manual for over-ride instructions. 90

103 SECTION 8 CAMPING & OPERATING DO NOT connect the 12-volt DC Travel r terminals to a 110-volt AC power source! Doing so will permanently damage the awning. Maintenance Keep your awning in good condition to prevent costly repairs. Always operate the awning according to the instructions. Periodically check that the fasteners are tight. Tighten if necessary. Keep the awning fabric and arms clean. The effects of wind and rain on an awning are unpredictable. Severe damage to the awning and the vehicle may result. If weather conditions are windy or stormy, or extended periods of rain are expected, roll up the awning and secure for travel. Shut the awning in the travel position if you will be away from the RV for an extended period of time. Damage caused by improper awning operation is not warrantable. Awning fabric care DO NOT use oil based cleaners or any caustic, granulated or abrasive type cleaners on Carefree of Colorado awnings. One of the best ways to keep the fabric looking good and to delay the need for deep or vigorous cleanings is to hose fabrics off on a monthly basis with clear water. This practice will help prevent dirt from becoming deeply imbedded in the fabric. In most environments, a thorough cleaning will be needed every two to three years. When it s time for a thorough cleaning, the fabric can be cleaned while still on the awning frame: For vinyl fabric Use a soft brush and warm water with soap. For acrylic fabric Use a stiff brush and warm water with soap. When cleaning the fabric, it is important to observe the following: Always use a natural soap, never detergent. Water should be cold to lukewarm, never more than 100 F. Air-dry only. Never apply heat to the fabric. Always allow the fabric to dry thoroughly before rolling up the awning. Mildew Mildew is a fungus growth that looks like dirt. Vinyl coated polyester fabrics are mildew resistant because of a chemical biocide in the vinyl coating. Under ordinary conditions, mildew will not appear. However, in areas where high temperature and humidity are common, mildew can be a problem and require the material to be washed more frequently. Thoroughly rinse the fabric with clean water and allow to air dry completely before rolling up the awning. Pooling When water collects on the top of the fabric, this is known as "pooling". This can occur during inclement weather or if a running air conditioner discharges over the awning. The water is dumped when the awning is retracted. It is recommended that if water accumulates on the top; retract the awning in steps (8"-12") to dump the water. This will help prevent the fabric from stretching or distorting. SLIDE ROOM AWNINGS When the slide out extends, the optional slide room awning extends with it to give your slide out protection from water, dirt and debris. Periodically check that the fasteners are tight. Tighten if necessary. Keep the awning fabric and lift arms clean. 91

104 SECTION 8 CAMPING & OPERATING BIKE RACK Improper use of the bike rack may result in damage to your bike rack, your vehicle, your RV, your bicycles, or even other vehicles driving behind you (as a result of colliding with or trying to avoid fallen bicycles and/or the rack). Proper fitting and installation of this bike rack carrier to your specific RV is critical, and is not the manufacturer s responsibility. Damage caused by improper use of the bike rack carrier or rear bike rack hitch is not warrantable. If your RV was ordered with the bike rack carrier, do not use the rear bike rack hitch for any other purpose. The rear bike rack hitch is not designed or intended to be used for towing. Refer to the OEM supplied manual for the bike rack carrier installation instructions. If you have any questions, consult your dealer or Entegra Customer Service. BIKE RACK WITH CARGO TRAY The bike rack with cargo tray must be secured to the RV frame by the safety locking pins at all times. Damage caused by failure to set the locking pins or improper loading or excessive loading is not warrantable. Figure 35 Bike rack with cargo tray safety locking pins Items that extend beyond the bike rack/cargo tray OR weigh over 250 lbs. (113.4 kg) will place undo strain on the RV. Some items may fall within the given weight range, however, can still cause damage. Over time, excess weight added to the tray will cause damage from the motion created while traveling. In addition, extra weight behind the axle may reduce the hitch weight (leading to adverse handling conditions from wind gusts and/or passing traffic). Figure 36 Bike rack stand (shown locked vertically and locked horizontally Ensure the bike rack stand is securely locked in place at all times. When the bike rack stand is not in use, it must be locked horizontal with the cargo tray frame. DEPARTING CAMP CHECKLIST When the time arrives to return home, it is again critical that you complete the necessary procedures to ensure a safe trip. As you develop a routine, it is possible that a checklist will be helpful. This is a general list, which you may want to customize as you determine your own needs. In addition, make sure you follow the hitching procedures listed in the Before You Travel... section of this manual. Safety Make sure you follow all safety precautions noted in this owner s manual and in any vendor supplied manual when preparing to travel home. Interior Close roof vents Close windows & latch blinds Counter items put away or tied down Latch drawers, cabinets & doors 92