Airstream 2009 Pan America User manual

INTRODUCTION
The Owners Manual for your new Airstream trailer is designed to respond to
the most frequent inquiries regarding the operation, function and care of the
many systems that make modern trailering a joy.
Airstream realizes our customers possess varying degrees of expertise in the
area of repairing and maintaining the appliances in their trailer. For this reason,
the service and trouble-shooting information found in this manual 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.
A brief explanation of the operation of the appliances such as refrigerator,
furnace, water heater and others are explained in this manual. However, you
will also find the manufacturer’s information supplied in a packet included
with this manual more detailed.
All information, illustrations and specifications contained in this manual are based
on the latest product information available at the time of publication approval. If
and when new materials and production techniques are developed which can

2009 Pan AmericaINTRODUCTION
improve the quality of its product, or material substitutions are necessary due
to availability, Airstream reserves the right to make such changes.
We have provided many important safety messages in this manual. Always
read and obey all safety messages.
DANGER: Indicates a hazardous situation which, if not avoided,
will result in death or serious injury.
Warning: indicates a potentially hazardous situation that, if not
avoided, could result in death or serious injury.
CaUTiOn Used with safety alert symbol, indicates a hazardous
situation that, if not avoided, could result in minor or moderate injury.
nOTiCE is use to address practices not related to personal injury. This appies
to hazardoussituations involving proerty damage only.
NOTE: Important information regarding the maintenance of your recreational
vehicle.
(Option)
This denotes items that may be an option on all or particular models. Additionally,
some optional items can only be included during the manufacturing phase and
cannot be added. The inclusion of optional items does not imply or suggest the
availability, application suitability, or inclusion for any specific unit.
Important Safety Precautions
You’ll find many safety recommendations on this page and throughout this
manual. The recommendations on the next two pages are the ones we
consider to be the most important. They are covered in depth in later sections
of this manual.
Do Not Allow Passengers to Ride in the Trailer During Travel
The transport of people puts their lives at risk and may be illegal. The trailer
does not have seat belts, therefore, it is not designed to carry passengers.
Controlling Fishtailing or Sway (See page C-11)
Sway or fishtailing is the sideways action of a trailer caused by external forces.
Excessive sway of your travel trailer can lead to the rollover of the trailer and
tow vehicle resulting in serious injury or death. Be sure to follow the instructions
in this manual.

INTRODUCTION
Mold (See page C-10)
There are mold and mold spores throughout the indoor and outdoor environment.
There is no practical way to eliminate all mold and mold spores in the indoor
environment; the way to control indoor mold growth is to control moisture.
Towing and Weight Distribution (See section B, B-1-B-3)
Weight distribution is an important factor when loading your travel trailer. A
recreational vehicle with the cargo distributed properly will result in efficient,
trouble-free towing. Be sure to follow the instructions in this manual.
Lug Nut Torquing (See page D-14)
Being sure wheel mounting nuts (lug nuts) on trailer wheels are tight and
properly torqued is an important responsibility that trailer owners and users
need to be familiar with and practice. Inadequate and/or inappropriate wheel
nut torque (tightness) is a major reason that lug nuts loosen in service. Loose
lug nuts can rapidly lead to a wheel separation with potentially serious safety
consequences. Be sure to follow the instructions in this manual.
WHEEL SEPARATION CAN OCCUR
On first trip, tighten wheel nuts at start of first trip and at 10, 25, and 50
miles. Thereafter check wheel nut torque: Before each trip, Following
winter storage, Following excessive braking, or whenever a wheel is
removed and replaced.
See torque pattern on page D-14 for tightening sequence and follow torque
specifications in the specification chart in the specification section of this
manual.
Appliances and Equipment (See section H)
The appliances (stove, refrigerator, outdoor grills, etc.) and equipment (hot
water heater, furnace, etc.) typically operate on propane gas. Propane gas is
flammable and is contained under high pressure. Improper use may result in
a fire and/or explosion. Be sure to follow all instructions and safety messages
in this manual as well as the specific owners’ manuals of the appliances and
equipment.
Tire Safety (See page D-12)
Properly maintained tires improve the steering, stopping, traction, and load-
carrying capability of your vehicle. Underinflated tires and overloaded vehicles
are a major cause of tire failure. Be sure to read the Tire Safety Manual
Addendum included with your owner’s packet.

2009 Pan AmericaINTRODUCTION
Chemical Sensitivity; Ventilation
Chemical Sensitivity
After you first purchase your new recreational vehicle and sometimes after it
has been closed up for an extended period of time you may notice a strong
odor and chemical sensitivity. This is not a defect in your recreational vehicle.
Like your home, there are many different products used in the construction of
recreational vehicles such as carpet, linoleum, plywood, insulation, upholstery,
etc. Formaldehyde is also the by-product of combustion and numerous
household products, such as some paints, coatings and cosmetics. However,
recreational vehicles are much smaller than your home and therefore the
exchange of air inside a recreational vehicle is significantly less than a home.
These products, when new or when exposed to elevated temperatures and/
or humidity, may “off-gas” different chemicals, including formaldehyde. This
off-gassing, in combination with the minimal air exchange, may cause you to
experience irritation of the eyes, nose, and throat and sometimes headache,
nausea, and a variety of asthma-like symptoms. Elderly persons and young
children, as well as anyone with a history of asthma, allergies, or lung problems,
may be more susceptible to the effects of off-gassing.
Formaldehyde
Most of the attention regarding chemical off-gassing surrounds formaldehyde.
Formaldehyde is a naturally occurring substance and is an important chemical
used widely by industry to manufacture building materials and numerous
household products. It is also a by-product of combustion and certain
other natural processes. Thus, it may be present inside the trailer with some
individuals being sensitive to it. Ventilation of the unit normally reduces the
exposure to a comfortable level.
Trace levels of formaldehyde are released from smoking, cooking, use of
soaps and detergents such as carpet shampoos, cosmetics, and many other
household products. Some people are very sensitive to formaldehyde while
others may not have any reaction to the same levels of formaldehyde. Amounts
released decrease over time.
Your Airstream trailer was manufactured using low formaldehyde emitting (LFE)
wood products, which is the typical usage in the recreation vehicle industry.
Formaldehyde has an important role in the adhesives used to bind wood
products used in recreation vehicles. The wood products in your trailer are
designed to emit formaldehyde at or lower than industry guidelines and should
not produce symptoms in most individuals.

INTRODUCTION
While LFE wood products typically do not emit formaldehyde at a level that
would cause symptoms in most individuals, it is possible, though not likely, for
that to occur when the trailer is not properly ventilated. Ventilation is an essential
requirement for trailer use, for many reasons. Any effects of formaldehyde
can be greatly reduced by actions such as opening windows, opening roof
vents, running the air conditioner, or some combination thereof. In addition,
the emission of formaldehyde by these products naturally decreases rapidly
over time.
Airstream strongly suggests that you take measures to properly ventilate your
trailer on a regular basis. If you have any questions with respect to proper
ventilation of your trailer, please do not hesitate to contact your dealer or
Airstream.
Ventilation
To reduce or lessen exposure to chemicals from off-gassing it is of utmost
importance that you ventilate your recreational vehicle. Ventilation should occur
frequently after purchase and at times when the temperatures and humidity are
elevated. Remember off-gassing is accelerated by heat and humidity. Open
windows, exhaust vents, and doors. Operate ceiling and/or other fans, roof air
conditioners, and furnaces and use a fan to force stale air out and bring fresh air
in. Decreasing the flow of air by sealing the recreational vehicle increases the
formaldehyde level in the indoor air. Please also follow the recommendations
contained in Chapter 2 regarding tips to avoid condensation problems. Many
of the recommendations contained in Chapter 2 will assist in avoiding exposure
to chemicals that off-gas.
Do Not Smoke
Finally, we recommend that you do not smoke inside your recreational vehicle.
In addition to causing damage to your recreational vehicle, tobacco smoke
releases formaldehyde and other toxic chemicals.
Medical Advice
If you have any questions regarding the health effects of formaldehyde, please
consult your doctor or local health department.
Warranty Exclusion
Chemical gassing is not a “Defect” in your recreational vehicle and is not
covered by the Limited Warranty. Please follow the recommendations in this
manual to address this concern.

TABLE OF CONTENTS
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A. WARRANTY AND SERVICE
Warranty
Warranty Explanation
Service
Reporting Safety Defects
Maintenance Schedule
Maintenance Parts & Supplies
B. TOWING
Tow Vehicles
Brakes
Loading
Weighing your Trailer
Hitching Up
Towing Tips
Pre-Travel Check List
C. CAMPING
Camping Safety
Overnight Stop
Extended Stay
Leveling & Stabilizing
Hook Ups
Winter Traveling
Prolonged Occupancy
Condensation
Molds
Rear Cargo Area
D. EXTERIOR
Exterior Features
Cleaning
Chassis
Windows & Screens
Power Jack
Axle and Running Gear
Electric Brakes
Tires
E. INTERIOR FURNISHINGS
AND ACCESSORIES
Fabric Care
Flooring & Fixtures
Features & Switches
Storage Areas
Smoke Alarm
LP Gas Detector
Window Operation
Antenna/Cable/Satellite System
F. PLUMBING
LP (Liquid Petroleum) Gas
Water System
Winterizing
Drain & Waste System
G. ELECTRICAL
12-volt Operation
Battery
Converter
Solar Panel
Monitor Panel
110-Volt System & Components
GFIC Protection
H. APPLIANCES
Air Conditioner
Furnace
Range
Refrigerator
Water Heater
Roof Vent, High Volume
I. SPECIFICATIONS

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WARRANTy AND SERvICE
WARRANTY COVERAGE
Airstream, Inc. (“Airstream”) warrants that it will repair or replace defects in
material or workmanship in any components of a new Airstream trailer pur-
chased from an authorized Airstream dealer in the United States or Canada for
a period of twenty-four (24) months from the date the trailer is first delivered
to the original retail purchaser. In order to obtain coverage under this Limited
Warranty, you must notify an authorized Airstream dealership or Airstream of
the warrantable defect no later than ten (10) days following expiration of this
Limited Warranty. Airstream’s obligation to repair or replace defective materials
or workmanship is the sole obligation of Airstream under this Limited Warranty.
Airstream reserves the right to use new or remanufactured parts of similar qual-
ity to complete any warranty work.
LIMITATION OF IMPLIED WARRANTIES
IMPLIEDWARRANTIESARISINGUNDERAPPLICABLELAW,IFANY,INCLUDING
BUT NOT LIMITED TO IMPLIED WARRANTIES OF MERCHANTABILITY
OR FITNESS FOR A PARTICULAR PURPOSE, ARE HEREBY LIMITED IN
DURATION TO THE TERM OF THIS LIMITED WARRANTY. ALL OTHER
WARRANTIES, EXPRESS OR IMPLIED, ARE HEREBY DISCLAIMED BY
AIRSTREAM. SOME STATES DO NOT ALLOW LIMITATIONS ON HOW LONG
AN IMPLIED WARRANTY LASTS, SO THE ABOVE LIMITATIONS MAY NOT
APPLY TO YOU.
WHAT IS NOT COVERED BY THIS LIMITED WARRANTY
This Limited Warranty does not provide coverage for any of the following:
(1) Tires and batteries;
(2) Any part or component of the trailer that was not manufactured or installed
by Airstream;
(3) Normal deterioration due to wear or exposure, including but not limited to
rust and cosmetic blemishes;
(4) Normal maintenance and service items, including but not limited to light
bulbs, fuses, lubricants, sealants and seals, slideout adjustments, door adjust-
ments, and awing tension;
(5) After-market equipment or accessories installed on the trailer after comple-
tion of manufacture by Airstream, or any defects or damage caused by such
items;
(6) Defects or damage caused by, in whole or in part, or in any way related to:
a. Accidents, misuse, or negligence.
b. Failure to comply with the instructions set forth in any owner’s
manual provided with the trailer.
c. Alteration or modification of the trailer except such alterations or
modifications approved in writing by Airstream.

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WARRANTy AND SERvICE
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d. Acts of God or other environmental conditions, such as lightning,
hail, salt, or other chemicals in the atmosphere.
e. Failure to properly maintain or service the trailer, including but not
limited to the maintenance of lubricants, sealants, and seals.
f. Condensation and the results of condensation including water
damage and the growth of mold or mildew. Mold and mildew are
natural growths given certain environmental conditions and are not
covered by the terms of this Limited Warranty.
g. Use of the trailer other than for temporary recreation purposes,
including but not limited to use of the trailer for residential, com
mercial, or rental purposes.
h. The addition of weight to the trailer that causes the trailer’s total
weight to exceed applicable trailer weight ratings, or addition of
weight causing improper distribution of the weight of the trailer.
i. Use of an improper or unauthorized trailer hitch.
j. Failure to seek repairs in a timely manner.
k. Failure to use reasonable efforts to mitigate damage caused by
defects.
DISCLAIMER OF INCIDENTAL AND CONSEQUENTIAL DAMAGES
Airstream hereby disclaims any and all incidental and consequential damages
arising out of or relating to the vehicle, including expenses such as trans-
portation to and from vehicle dealerships and Airstream repair facilities, loss
of time, loss of pay, loss of use, inconvenience, commercial loss (including lost
profits), towing charges, bus fares, vehicle rental, service call charges, gasoline
expenses, incidental charges such as telephone calls and facsimile transmis-
sions, and expenses for lodging.
Some states do not allow the exclusion or limitation of incidental or conse-
quential damages, so the above limitation or exclusion may not apply to you.
OBTAINING WARRANTY SERVICE
In order to obtain warranty service under this Limited Warranty, the owner must
do all of the following:
1. Complete and return the Owner Registration Card within 10 days from de-
livery of the trailer;
2. Notify Airstream or one of its authorized, independent dealers, of any claimed
defect within the warranty period or 10 days thereafter;
3. Provide notification of a defect within 10 days of discovery of that defect;
and
4. Promptly return the trailer to an authorized Airstream dealer or Airstream for
repairs.
If you believe a defect covered by this Limited Warranty still exists after an at-

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WARRANTy AND SERvICE
tempted repair by an authorized Airstream dealer, you must contact Airstream
at the following address, specifying: (1) the complete serial number of the
trailer; (2) the date of original purchase and the date of original delivery; (3) the
name of the selling dealer; and (4) the nature of the problem and the steps or
service which have been performed.
AIRSTREAM, INC.
419 West Pike Street
P.O. Box 629
Jackson Center, Ohio 45334-0629
Attention: Owner Relations Department
Airstream may direct you to an authorized Airstream dealer, or may request
that you bring your trailer to the Airstream factory in Jackson Center, Ohio for
repairs.
Airstream does not control the scheduling of repairs at its authorized Airstream
dealers, and repairs at the Airstream factory may not be immediately available.
Therefore, you may encounter delays in scheduling repairs and/or completion
of repairs. All costs associated with transporting the trailer for any warranty
service shall be the sole responsibility of the owner.
DEALER REPRESENTATIONS EXCLUDED
The entire Limited Warranty provided by Airstream is set forth herein. Airstream
will not be responsible for any additional representations or warranties made by
any person or entity other than Airstream, and Airstream’s obligations are solely
as set forth in the terms and conditions of this Limited Warranty.
WARRANTY TRANSFER
This Limited Warranty is transferable to subsequent owners for the remaining
duration of the warranty period. Transfer of this Limited Warranty is only ef-
fective upon completion and return to Airstream of a transfer application form.
Transfer application forms are available from your dealer or Airstream’s Service
Administration Department.
CHANGES IN DESIGN
Airstream reserves the right to make changes in design and improvements
upon its products from time-to-time, without imposing upon itself any obliga-
tion to install additional features in your trailer.
THIS WARRANTY GIVES YOU SPECIFIC LEGAL RIGHTS, AND YOU MAY
ALSO HAVE OTHER RIGHTS WHICH VARY FROM STATE TO STATE.

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WARRANTy AND SERvICE
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AIRSTREAM, INC.
419 West Pike Street
P.O. Box 629
Jackson Center, OH 45334-0629
Tele: 937-596-6111
Fax: [phone]
E-mail: www.airstream.com
EXPLANATION OF AIRSTREAM LIMITED WARRANTY
The Airstream Limited Warranty is detailed on a Warranty Card. It is filled out
by the dealer and presented to the owner during delivery of a new unit. The
Limited Warranty must be presented to a dealer to obtain warranty service. It
should be kept in the trailer during the warranty period.
EXCLUSIONS:
Normal Wear
Items such as tires, 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 trailer upon re-
ceipt 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 or customer’s responsibility upon acceptance of delivery, unless
Airstream is notified and the person making the delivery verifies the damage.
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 will result in early failure
for which Airstream cannot be held responsible.
Exposure
Not unlike a car, the steel parts of a trailer can and will rust if subjected to pro-
longed exposure to moisture, salt air, or corrosive air-borne 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