Airstream 1996 190 User manual

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INTRODUCTION
The Owners Manual for your new Airstream motorhome is designed to
explain the operation, function and care of the many systems that make
traveling a joy.
Airstream realizes our customers possess varying degrees of expertise in the
area of repairing and maintaining the appliances in their unit. For this
reason, the service and trouble-shooting information found in this manual,
and your
Silver Key Notebook, is directed toward those with average
mechanical skills. We also realize you may be more familiar in one area
than you are in another. Only you know your capabilities and limitations.
We want you to use this manual, and hope you will find the information
contained in it useful; however, should you ever feel you may be "getting in
over your head" please see your dealer to have the repairs made.
Appliance
manufacturer's information is supplied in a packet included with
this manual.
All
information, illustrations and specifications contained in the literature is
based on the latest product information available at the time of publication
approval.
Throughout this manual CAUTION and WARNING notations are used. Failure
to observe "caution" can damage equipment. "Warning" notes the possibility
of personal injury if not observed.
Note: If and when new materials and production techniques are developed
which
can improve the quality of its product, or material substitutions are
necessary due to availability, Airstream reserves the right to make such
changes.
© Airstream, Inc. 1988

TABLE OF CONTENTS
WAR RANTY ---------- -------------------------------------- --------------1
E xp lanation of Warran tY-----------------------------------------4
:VIAl NT EN ANCE SCHEDUL E-------------------------------------------5
CAM PIN G---------------------- ----------------------------------------- 6
Safety-------------------------------------------------------------6
Overnight S top--------------------------------------------- ______ 7
Ext ended S ta y -------- --- -- ---- --- --- ------- --- ----------- ------ --8
EXTERIO R---------------------------------------------------------------9
Cleaning-----------------------------------------------------------9
INTERI0 R--------------------------------------------------------------10
Drapes, Upholstery, Carpet------------------------------------lO
Counter Tops----------------------------------------------------10
Galley Sink------------------------------------------------------10
Plastic Ba throom Components----------------------------------l1
Sof a/ Bed---------------------------------------------------------11
Table-------------------------------------------------------------11
Sliding Windows-------------------------------------------------11
Smo ke Detector-------------------------------------------------12
Gas Alarm--------------...:----------------------------------------13
Fire Extinguisher------------------------------------------------14
PL UM BIN G------------------------------- ------------------------------15
LP Gas-----------------------------------------------------------15
LP Gas Regulator-----------------------------------------------16
Water System Self Contained----------------------------------18
Water Pump-----------------------------------------------------18
Water Pump Filter----------------------------------------------19
Cleaning Fresh Wa te r Tan k------------------------------------ 20
City Water Hoo kup---------------------------------------------21
Winterizing/ S torage---------------------------------------------
21
Drain and Waste System--------------------------------------- 23

WATER PUM P--------------------------------------------------------- 25
TO1LET ---------------------------------------- -------------- ---------- - 28
ELECTR1 CAL---------------------------------------------------- --- ----3 0
Breakers---------------------------------------------------------30
Fuses-------------------------------------------------------------31
Lights------------------------------------------------------------31
Roof Ven ts----------------- ------------------------------------ --3 2
Range Ex
ha ust --- -- - --- -- -- ---- -- ---- ------ ------------------ ---- 32
Monitor Pane 1---------------------------------------------------3 2
TV Antenna/ Jac k------------------------------------------------33
AP PLIANCE MANU Ft"CTURE RS--------------------------------------34
SPEClF1CAT ION S -----------------------------------------------------3 5

[\IRSTREAM, INC.
LIMITED
WARRANTY
1989
190 MOTORHOME
WARRANTY COVERAGE
When you buy a new
.~IRSTRE,~\ll ONE NINETY MOTORHOME from an
authorized Airstream dealer, .~irstream, Inc. warrants the motorhome from
defects in material and workmanship as follows:
WARRANTY PERIOD
The warranty extends for Ll period of one year from the date of original
retail purchase or 15,000 mlies, whichever comes first.
ITEMS COVERED
Airstream covers all items used to convert the Ford Van to a Class B
motorhome
except the following items which are not covered:
*
*
*
*
*
*
Tires
Batteries
Fuses and Bulbs
Radio and
Cassette Players
Microwave Oven
Generator
Ford has a Limited Warranty on their van that you should review with your
local Ford dealership if you have any questions.
LIMITATION OF IMPLIED WARRANTIES
All warranties of merchantability and fitness for a particular purpose,·
whether written or oral, express or implied, shall extend only for a period
of one year or 15,000 miles from the date of original purchase. There are
no other warranties which extend beyond those described on the face hereof
and expressly excludes conditions resulting from normal wear, accident,
abuse, exposure or overload. Some states do not allow limitation on how
long an implied warranty lasts, so the above limitation may not apply to
you.
AIRSTREAM'S RESPONS 11l1! I ;-Y
The Airstream Limited \\ j;':'\ ,lpplies for a period of one year or 15,000
miles from
the date of ',:':1 Durchase, and the applicable date of all
warranties is that indiccj[\': . :~c Owner's Identification Card. Defects in
items covered under this .'." r ::It. \ will be corrected without cost upon the
return at the owner's t'\."'~,-' 'If the motorhome or defective part to an
authorized Airstream deale r.
-1-

CARE :-\ND \;L.-\INTENANCE
This
warranty covers only defective
adjustments and checking are excluded.
factory prior to shipment, and rechecked
the customer. More detailed information
Warranty.
material and/or workmanship;
All
adjustments are made at the
by the dealer prior to delivery to
is contained in the Explanation of
The owner is also responsible for following all recommendations, instructions
and precautions contained in the Airstream Owner's \IIanual and the
individual manuals furnished by the appliance manufacturers.
INSTALLATIONS NOT COVERED
Airstream, Inc. cannot, however, and does not accept any responsibility in
connection with any of its motorhomes for additional equipment or
accessories installed at any dealership or other place of business, or by any
other party. Such installation of equipment or accessories by any other
party will not be covered by the terms of this warranty.
IF REPAIRS ARE NEEDED
If your motorhome needs repairs under the terms of the Airstream Limited
Warranty, you should:
1. Take your motorhome to your selling dealer or other Authorized
Airstream dealer.
2. If the dealer is incapable of making the repair, request that he
contact the Service Administration Department at Airstream, Inc. for
technical assistance.
3. If repairs are still not made, the customer should contact Airstream,
Inc., 419 W. Pike Street, Jackson Center, Ohio 45334, Attention:
Owner Relations Department and furnish the following information:
*
*
*
*
The complete serial number of the motorhome.
Date of original purchase.
Selling dealer.
Nature of service problem and steps or service which have been
performed. (The owner may be directed to another dealer at the
owner's expense.)
4. If, after taking the above steps, repairs are still not complete, the
Airstream owner may request the motorhome be allowed to be brought
to the Factory Service Center at the owner's expense.
-2-

DEALER REPRESENTATION EXCLUDED
The full extent of Airstream's Limited Warranty is set forth in detail in this
folder, and in the Explanation of Airstream Limited Warranty covered in the
Airstream Motorhome Owner's Manual. Airstream, Inc. will not be
responsible for additional representations or implied warranties made by any
of its dealers to the extent those representations are not a part of, or are
contrary to, the terms and conditions of the Airstream Limited Warranty.
CONSEQUENTIAL AND INCIDENTAL DAMAGES
Airstream, Inc. will not be responsible for any consequential or incidental
damages resulting from a defect. Incidental expenses include, but are not
limited to, travel expenses, gasoline, oil, lodging, meals, telephone tolls, loss
of work and loss of use of the motorhome. Some examples of consequential
damages would be: stained curtains due to rain leaks or delaminated floor
caused by a plumbing leak. Some states do not allow the exclusion or
limitation of incidental or consequential damages, so the above limitation or
exclusion may not apply to you.
WARRANTY TRANSFER
This limited
warranty is transferable to subsequent owners for the duration
of the warranty period. Warranty transfer application forms are available
from your dealer or the Airstream, Inc. Service Administration Department.
CHANGES IN DESIGN
Airstream, Inc. reserves the right to make changes in design and
improvements upon
its product without imposing any obligation upon itself to
install the same upon its products theretofore manufactured.
This
warranty gives you specific legal rights, and you may also have other
rights which vary from state to state.
Thor Industries
Airstream, Inc.
419 West Pike
Jackson
Center, Ohio 45334
-3-

EXPLANATION OF AIRSTREAM LIMITED WARRANTY
The Airstream Limited Warranty is detailed in a separate folder. A plastic
WARRANTY IDENTI FICATION CARD is sent to you after Airstream receives
notification from your dealer of the sale. Since the 1.D. card is necessary
to obtain warrant'y it should be kept in the motorhome or on your perso~
during the warranty period.
EXCLUSIONS
Normal Wear
Items such as tires, water purifier packs, curtains, upholstery, floor
coverings, window, door and vent seals will show wear or may even wear
out within the one year warranty period depending upon the amount of
usage,
weather and atmospheric conditions.
Accident
We strongly urge our dealers and customers to inspect the motorhome upon
receipt of delivery for any damage caused by accident while being delivered
to the dealer, or while it is on the dealer's lot. Damage of this nature
becomes the dealer's or customer's responsibility upon acceptance of
delivery, unless Airstream is notified and the damage is verified by the
person making the delivery. Glass breakage, whether obviously struck or
mysterious, is always accidental and covered by most insurance policies.
Abuse
Lack
of customer care and/or improper maintenance may result in early
failure for which Airstream cannot be held responsible.
Exposure
Not unlike a
car, the steel parts can and will rust if subjected to prolonged
exposure
to moisture, salt air, or corrosive airborne pollutants without
repainting. Aluminum oxidizes when unprotected under similar conditions,
and
refinery chemicals of a sulfurous nature are harmful to finishes if not
washed
off periodically. Extremely hot or direct sunlight will deteriorate
rubber and fade curtains and upholstery. Conditions of this nature, although
they may be normal for the area, are beyond Airstream's control and
become
the responsibility of the owner.
Although
it is our obligation to correct a rain or plumbing leak within the
terms of the limited warranty, it is the owner's responsibility to use
reasonable, prudent care to minimize foreseeable secondary damage, such as
a
delaminated floor, stained upholstery, carpeting, drapes etc.
Overload
Damage due
to loading, either beyond capacity or to cause improper handling
because of improper balance, is beyond Airstream's responsibility.
-4-

MAINTENANCE SCHEDULE
WARNING: On
new units check lug bolts every 200 miles for first 1000
miles. Torque 90-95 ft. Ibs.
EVERY 5,000 MILES OR 90 DAYS
G FI Circuit Breaker
LPG Regulator
Range Exhaust Hood
Roof
Vent Elevator Screws
EVERY 10,000 MILES OR 6 MONTHS
Seals and Windows
Exterior
-5-
Test and record.
Check bottom vent for obstruction.
Clean fan blades and wash filter.
Lubricate with light houshold oil.
Clean with mild detergent and coat
with "Slipicone".
Wax

CAMPING
SAFETY
,-\s always, safety should be one of your top priorities. :Vlake sure you, and
everyone traveling with you, can operate all doors, and exit rapidly without
light.
WARNING:
WARNING:
Read the directions carefully on the fire extinguisher. If
there is any doubt on the operation, you and your family
should
practice, then replace or recharge the extinguisher.
You will find your local fire department will be happy to
assist you and answer any questions.
Don't smoke in bed!
Keep
matches out of reach of small children!
Don't clean with flammable material!
Keep flammable
material away from open flame!
We have all heard these warnings many times, but they are still among the
leading causes of fires.
Other safety information on the LPG system of your motorhome is located in
the Plumbing Section of this manual.
-6-

O\"ER)JIGHT STOP
,\irstream owners have parked virtually every place imaginable from filling
stations to farm lands. In time you will develop a knack for spotting
wonderful little roadside locations by turning off the main highway and
exploring.
There are many modern trailer parks including State, County and Federal
parks with good facilities where you may obtain hookups of electrical, water
and sewer connections. Directories are published which describe in detail
these parks and tell what is available in the way of services and hookups.
On overnight or weekend trips chances are you will not use up the capacity
of the sewage holding tank, deplete the water supply, or run down the
battery which supplies the 12 volt current. It's always a good idea to fill
your
water tank with "home water". There are some beautiful campgrounds
with water you may find objectional. The city water fill is on the curbside,
behind
the double door. Pull the plug out of the vent hole when filling.
On a longer trip, when you have stayed where sewer connections and utility
hookups were not available, it will be necessary for you to stop from time
to time to dispose of the waste in the holding tank and replenish the water
supply. Many gas stations (chain and individually owned) have installed
Sanitary Dumping Stations for just this purpose. Booklets are available
which
list these dumping stations.
When stopping for the night your Airstream is built to be safely parked in
any
spot that is relatively level and where the ground is firm. Your
facilities are with you. You are self-contained.
Try to pick as level a parking spot as possible. Although your refrigerator
may operate off level, the longevity of the cooling unit will decrease. Keep
the bubble of the refrigerator level within the circle and it will be fine.
All you need
to do to enjoy the self-contained luxury of your Airstream is
to turn on the LP gas and light any appliances with pilots.
Before moving on, check your campsite both for cleanliness and also to be
sure you haven't left anything behind. Turn off the gas supply and make
sure everything is properly stowed.
-7-

EXTENDED STAY
For more than an overnight stay you will want to make use of hookup
facilities provided at most campgrounds.
The power
cord to plug into 110 volt service is located behind a small
round
access door on the roadside of your motorhome and close to the rear
wheel. The cord pulls straight out.
WARNING: If an adapter is required, make sure the ground circuit is not
by-passed.
Both the sewer hose hookup and city water connection are located on the
roadside of your coach.
A storage compartment for sewer hose storage has been provided forward of
the city water hookup. Always flush your hose thoroughly before storing.
Your water hose should be the type designed for -Jtable water so there
won't be any objectionable taste or odor.
For an
extended stay you will want to make sure your motorhome is as
level as possible.
We don't recommend digging a hole to lower the high
side. A sudden rainstorm may find you stuck in the rut you dug. An easier
and better way is to carry along some short lengths of 3/4" and 2" boards
about 8" wide. By using different combinations of thicknesses you will be
able to level your vehicle in almost any circumstances you may find in a
campground.
In cold
weather it is normal for condensation to form. When one or more
people spend any length of time in a small, closed area, humidity raises
rapidly. Cooking and showers raise
the content of moisture in the air even
further, and it will condense on the coolest surface. To alleviate the
problem you must provide ventilation. Barely cracking a window on each
side, along with raising a roof ventilator, will normally be all that is
necessary.
-8-

EXTERIOR
The
exterior of your ,-\irstream motorhome should be washed and waxed as
anv
other automotive vehicle. However, there is one area where a little
extra attention can save you a lot of time and labor later on. The front
area of your motorhome is much larger than an automobile, and the amount
of bugs that can be hit in a summer's evening, especially along waterways,
can be astounding. ,-\ good heavy coat, or even a couple of coats, of paste
wax can make their removal much easier. Bug removal after they have been
soaked by a heavy dew or rain will also be easier.
Bugs will leave some marks. Some are caused by hard shells acting almost
like a stone, whereas other bugs seem to have a corrosive action on paints
and coating.
CAUTION:
Abrasive polishes or cleaning solvents, such as automatic dishwasher
detergents or acid etch cleaners are too strong and should never be used.
As a general rule of thumb we recommend the unit be washed about every
four weeks and waxed in the spring and fall. To make sure your new unit
is always protected you should wax it immediately, or have your dealer wax
it just prior to delivery. In industrial areas cleaning and waxing should be
done on a more frequent schedule.
ALWAYS CLEAN YOUR MOTORHOME IN THE SHADE OR ON A CLOUDY
DAY WHEN THE ALUMINUM SKIN IS COOL. Oil, grease, dust and dirt
may be removed by washing with any mild non-abrasive soap or detergent.
Cleaning should be followed by a thorough clean water rinse. Spots and
streaks may be prevented by drying the unit with a chamois or a soft cloth.
It is important to remove sap, gum, resin, asphalt, etc. as soon as possible
after they appear by washing and rewaxing. Sunlight and time will
bake-harden these materials making them almost impossible to remove
without heavy buffing. If asphalt remains on the unit after washing, use a
small
amount of kerosene on a rag and wipe the spots individually, being
careful not to scratch the finish.
-9-

INTERIOR
,-\11 Airstream interiors have been designed for comfort, convenience,
durability and appearance. How it is used and cared for naturally depends
on you.
Cleaning up spills immediately and preventing dust, dirt and grime
from building up
is a good starting point.
Dry Goods
The drapes and upholstery material should be routinely vacuumed with a soft
brush attachment. Preventing dust and dirt from accumulating will add to
the life of the materials.
If further cleaning is needed, the upholstery and curtain material MUST BE
DRY CLEANED.
The drapes can be removed by taking out the screw and spacer in either
end of the track.
Treat the hardwood' furniture like any fine wood. Dust often, occasionally
wax it, and it will reflect vour care.
Carpet
The carpet can be cleaned with any good commercial carpet cleaner, or
with a detergent and water. BE CAREFUL NOT TO SOAK THE CARPET
WITH WATER.
Counter Area
The counter areas around the sink are of a high-pressure laminate, and can
be cleaned with soap and water. Or you can use a common cleaning
solvent on tough spots. Be sure no abrasive cleaner is used as there is the
possibility it could scratch the surface. A protective pad should always be
placed under hot utensils.
Stainless Steel Sink
Stainless steel sinks Cannot be harmed by boiling water. However, salt,
mustard, mayonnaise and \';ctsup can cause pitting. Stubborn stains will yield
to paste made of water <111<1 sl ightly abrasive household cleaner. Be sure to
work in the direction ,,( I he polish lines on the steel to keep the original
finish.
Fingerprints dr,' ~"l1letimes a problem. They can be minimized by
applying a cleaner thdl it',I\l'S a film of thin wax: Simply wipe it on and
remove the excess \\ Ittl d Llrv cloth. After this, fingerprints can be wiped
off with a soft dry cluth. (lr une moistened with a little wax cleaner. The
surface should always tw,\ dshed before wax is applied. Regular cleaning
will prevent build-up uf ",';rlc clOd film. Ordinary soaps or detergents are
best for routine cleaninl-!; "f tile stainless steel sinks. Rinse thoroughly with
warm water and wipe dn ,\ It il d cloth to avoid streaks and spots.
-10-

PLASTIC R~THROO:VI COMPONE,'\jTS
CAUTION:
The shower pan in your bathroom is made of a special ABS long wearing,
light weight, high strength plastic material. WHEN CLEANING USE SOAP
OR DETERGENT ONLY. NEVER USE SCOURING POWDER.
Always
rewax the ABS plastic surfaces after each heavy cleaning with a
good grade paste wax (without solvents or cleaners). The wax will help
protect the surfaces from discoloration and stains. When you first purchase
your motorhome, Airstream recommends that you give all ABS plastic
surfaces a heavy coating of paste wax. This will assure easier cleaning and
lasting beauty.
Sofa
To convert the sofa into Ll bed, lift up on the front of the seat and pull
out. The back rest will cirop down automatically into place. To retract,
again lift up on the front edge, push back toward the wall.
Bunk
To
extend bunk, grasp fdcer board and slide it back to the overhead
cabinets. The facer board \vill drop into notches.
Table
The pedestal table used in your Airstream is commonly seen in all types of
recreational vehicles. The pedestal table leg is usually stored between the
front edge of the bunk mattress and the facer board. The pressure of the
mattress holds it securely and prevents it from rattling.
To erect the table, first pull the carpeted center plug from the base
.
located directly in front of the couch. The tubing type table leg is tapered
on each end. It is inserted into the base. The table leaf is then fitted
over the leg. Both ends of the leg are tapered the same, so there is no up
or down.
A
slide assembly is used on the leaf so it can be moved closer or further
away. Do not use force \\ hen erecting the table. The tapered legs fit the
matching sockets well t'il"'I,zh to make them become surprisingly tight. If
stuck, a slight twistinl! ':, ,r:, 'f] will allow the leg to be withdrawn from the
sockets.
WARNING: Always take the table down when traveling and store the leaf
in the rear closet. In case of accident the heavy leaf can become a
dangerous projectile.
Sliding Windows
Window
latches are rele," '
the handle. Once relea;:, "
of Slipicone spray lubric ,j' ,
are cleaned by wiping \Ii Ie '
"I .. ()U pull in on the center vertical bar of
,\ i~,dt)\\S slide in tracks. Just a light touch
.! r: \ w ill keep them sliding freely. Screens
:.1~11p doth.
-11-

S\IOKE DETECTOR
,-\ smoke detector is centrally located in the ceiling of your motorhome.
The
alarm horn and the indicator light on your detector lets vou know
\vhether your detector is working right.
When the indicator light, which you can see through the clear push button
of the test switch, flashes once a minute, the detector is operating
normally. (Model 83P has a white push button and does not flash.)
When
the alarm is sounding the detector has sensed smoke or combustion
particles in the air. The alarm will automatically turn off when the smoke
in
the air is completely gone.
If
the alarm horn beeps once a minute the detector's battery is weak and
needs to be replaced immediately.
How
to take care of your detector.
Your smoke detector has been designed to be as maintenance free as
possible. To keep your
detector in good working order you must:
Test the detector regularly (weekly is recommended) by pressing on the test
switch for up to 10 seconds until the alarm sounds. It is a good idea to
test the detector after storage and before each trip. Make sure your
family
hears the detector and knows how to react.
Replace the battery once a year or immediately when the low battery
"beep" signal sounds once per minute. The low battery signal should last at
least 30 days.
This
detector uses standard nine volt batteries. The detector will work
properly with the following batteries.
Eveready #522, #1222, #216
Duracell # MN 1604
Gold
Peak #1604P, #1604S
Eveready and Duracell batteries are available at any retail store that sells
batteries.
WARNING: Do not use any other kind of battery. The detector may not
operate properly with other batteries.
Vacuum the dust off the detector sensing chamber at least once a year.
This can be done when you open the detector to replace the battery.
Remove the battery before cleaning. Use a soft brush attachment and
carefully remove any dust on the detector components, especially on the
openings of
the sensing chamber. Replace the battery after cleaning.
-12-

Clean the detector's cover when it becomes dirty. First open the cover and
remove
the battery. Then hand wash the cover with a cloth dampened with
mild soapy water, rinse it with a cloth dampened with clear water, and dry
it
with a lint-free cloth. Be careful not to get any water on the detector
components. Replace the battery and close the cover.
Test the detector after closing the cover whenever you have opened it to
replace (he battery or clean it.
LP GAS ALARM
A LP gas alarm is mounted on the wall in the galley area. This position
keeps
it near the majority of gas appliances.
Operating Instructions
Turning on Power
Switch the unit's on/off switch to the "on" position thus activating the red
indicator light. Wait for the unit's alarm to sound. When this happens, the
alarm will beep for approximately one minute while the sensor stabilizes to
the surrounding atmosphere. When the alarm stops the unit is activated and
on
guard.
CAUTION:
Do not paint the unit. Do not spray directly onto the unit any chemicals
such as cleaners, air freshners, hair sprays, insecticides, etc.
DO NOT DIRECT ANY FLAME OR OTHER INTENSE HEAT SOURCE AT THE
UNIT.
When
powered by a vehicle battery that has been off automatic charge for
a period of more than a week, it is advisable to turn the unit off.
THE PRESENCE OF DANGEROUS FUMES WILL ACTIVATE THE BUZZER,
WARNING THE USER OF POTENTIAL DANGER. The following
steps should
be
taken immediately:
1. Extinguish all cigarettes and other open flames.
2.
Have proper extinguisher ready.
3.
Turn off all gas outlets and safety valves.
4.
Use forced ventilation to reduce the concentration of gas or
vapor level. The alarm will stop when a safe level of fumes is
reached.
-13-

5. Evacuate the area.
6. Call for professional help (Fire Department).
EXPLOSION AND FIRE PREVENTION IS SOUND COMMON SENSE. PUT
IT INTO PRACTICE. PREPARE YOUR OWN SAFETY CHECK LIST AND
FAMILIARIZE
OTHERS WITH IT.
FIRE EXTINGUISHER
The fire extinguisher just inside your forward door should have the charge
checked on a regular basis. \1ake sure your family, especially the cook,
knows how
to release the extinguisher storage bracket, and how to properly
operate the extinguisher. If you find the directions on the extinguisher
unclear, check with your local fire department. We Ire sure they will be
happy
to assist you and your family.
SAFETY:
Many things can be construed as safety related, but the most important is
your common sense. If you are careless with matches, cigarettes, flammable
material or any other hazardous material, we are sure you realize your
potential for accident is greatly increased.
-14-