Burstner motorhome User manual

Instruction manual
A
-Modell - 11/12 - Ausgabe 09/11 - 2096161 - BUE-0036-10EN
© 2011 Bürstner GmbH Kehl
Instruction manual
Dear Reader ...
We would like to congratulate you on the purchase of your new motorhome. You have selected a top-quality
vehicle which will afford you many years of enjoyment.
To enable you to always use and operate your motorhome properly and easily, your Bürstner dealer will first
provide you detailed instructions for all important functions when you take delivery.
This manual, the instruction manuals from the base vehicle manufacturer as well as the instruction manuals
from the appliance manufacturer will always be at hand to answer any questions you may have regarding your
motorhome.
Before your first journey
Please familiarise yourself with this manual rather than relying on it strictly for reference.
Fill in the warranty cards for the appliances and special equipment in the individual instructions and send these
cards to the respective manufacturers. This ensures your warranty claim for each appliance.

A-Modell - 11/12 - Ausgabe 09/11 - 2096161 - BUE-0036-10EN
Instruction manual

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A
-Modell - 11/12 - Ausgabe 09/11 - 2096161 - BUE-0036-10EN
Contents
1Introduction. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 7
1.1 General . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 7
1.2 Environmental tips. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 8
2Safety. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 9
2.1 Fire prevention . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 9
2.1.1 Avoidance of fire risks. . . . . . . . . . . . . . 9
2.1.2 Fire-fighting . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 9
2.1.3 In case of fire. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 9
2.2 General . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 10
2.3 Road safety. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 10
2.4 Towing. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 12
2.5 Gas system . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 12
2.5.1 General instructions . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 12
2.5.2 Gas bottles . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 13
2.6 Electrical system . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 14
2.7 Water system . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 14
3 Before the journey . . . . . . . . . . . 15
3.1 Keys . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 15
3.2 Registration. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 15
3.3 Payload . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 16
3.3.1 Terms . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 16
3.3.2 Calculating the payload. . . . . . . . . . . . 18
3.3.3 Loading the vehicle correctly. . . . . . . . 19
3.3.4 Roof rail and ladder (special
equipment) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 21
3.3.5 Rear garage/rear storage space . . . . . 22
3.3.6 Double floor. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 22
3.3.7 Bike rack (special equipment). . . . . . . 23
3.3.8 Removable load rack AL-KO
(special equipment). . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 25
3.3.9 Load rack SAWIKO (special
equipment) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 26
3.4 Towing. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 27
3.5 Caravan coupling (special
equipment) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 27
3.6 Entrance step . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 28
3.7 Television (special equipment) . . . . . . 29
3.8 Sink and drain basin covers . . . . . . . . 30
3.9 Securing add-on parts. . . . . . . . . . . . . 30
3.10 Snow chains (special equipment) . . . . 31
3.11 Road safety. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 31
4 During the journey . . . . . . . . . . . 35
4.1 Driving the motorhome . . . . . . . . . . . . 35
4.2 Parking distance control Park
Boy V (special equipment) . . . . . . . . . 36
4.3 Reversing camera (partially special
equipment) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 37
4.4 Driving speed . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 38
4.5 Brakes. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 38
4.6 Seat belts . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 39
4.6.1 Fastening the seat belt correctly . . . . . 39
4.7 Child restraint systems . . . . . . . . . . . . 39
4.8 Pilot seats for the driver's and front
passenger's seats . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 40
4.9 Headrests . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 40
4.10 Seating arrangement . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 41
4.11 Roman shades in the driver's cabin
(partially special equipment) . . . . . . . . 41
4.12 Filling up with diesel. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 42
5 Pitching the motorhome . . . . . . 43
5.1 Handbrake . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 43
5.2 Entrance step. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 43
5.3 Ramps . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 43
5.4 Wheel chocks . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 43
5.5 Supports . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 44
5.5.1 General instructions. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 44
5.5.2 Steady legs (SAWIKO) (partially
special equipment). . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 44
5.5.3 Steady legs (AL-KO) (partially
special equipment). . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 45
5.6 Electrical steady legs (AL-KO)
(special equipment) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 46
5.7 230 V connection . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 48
5.8 Refrigerator . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 48
5.9 Satellite unit (special equipment). . . . . 48
5.9.1 Equipment with automatic antenna
alignment (Alden). . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 49
5.9.2 Equipment with semi-automatic
antenna alignment (Alden). . . . . . . . . . 49
5.10 Equipment with automatic antenna
alignment (Oyster) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 50
5.11 Awning (special equipment). . . . . . . . . 51
6Living. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 53
6.1 Conversion door . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 53
6.1.1 Conversion door, outside
(Hartal M1). . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 53
6.1.2 Conversion door, inside
(Hartal M1). . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 54
6.1.3 Conversion door, outside
(Hartal Premium) (partially special
equipment). . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 54
6.1.4 Conversion door, inside (Hartal
Premium) (partially special
equipment). . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 55
6.1.5 Window of conversion door
(Hartal Premium) (partially special
equipment). . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 55
6.1.6 Folding insect screen on the
conversion door (partially special
equipment). . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 55
6.2 External flaps . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 56
6.2.1 Flap lock with recessed handle . . . . . . 56
6.2.2 Flap lock, square . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 57
6.2.3 Flap lock with push button . . . . . . . . . . 57
6.2.4 Flap for the 230 V connection,
square . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 58
6.2.5 Cap for the drinking water filler
neck . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 58
6.3 Furniture flaps and inner doors . . . . . . 59

Contents
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6.3.1 Furniture flaps with push button. . . . . . 59
6.3.2 Furniture flaps with release handle . . . 59
6.3.3 Driver's cabin partition
(only Argos 747–2). . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 60
6.4 Light switch . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 60
6.4.1 Entrance area . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 60
6.4.2 Interior . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 61
6.4.3 Wardrobe light . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 62
6.5 Spotlight . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 62
6.6 Light control (only Argos 747-2). . . . . . 63
6.7 Holder for flat screen . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 65
6.7.1 Holder on the column. . . . . . . . . . . . . . 65
6.7.2 Holder with jointed arm . . . . . . . . . . . . 66
6.7.3 Holder in the TV cabinet . . . . . . . . . . . 66
6.8 Ventilation . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 67
6.9 Windows . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 67
6.9.1 Hinged window with rotary hinges . . . . 68
6.9.2 Hinged window with automatic
hinges . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 70
6.9.3 Blind and insect screen . . . . . . . . . . . . 71
6.9.4 Roman shade and insect screen . . . . . 72
6.9.5 Roman shades for windscreen,
driver's window and front passenger's
window (special equipment). . . . . . . . . 73
6.10 Skylights. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 74
6.10.1 Heki skylight (mini and midi)
(partially special equipment) . . . . . . . . 75
6.10.2 Wind-up skylight . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 76
6.10.3 Skyroof skylight . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 77
6.11 Tables . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 79
6.11.1 Suspension table with changeable
table leg . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 79
6.11.2 Suspension table with changeable
table leg (without table-top
extension) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 80
6.11.3 Fixed table (extendable table-top) . . . . 80
6.12 Divan adjustment mechanism . . . . . . . 81
6.13 Beds. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 81
6.13.1 Overcab bed . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 81
6.13.2 Fixed bed (gas-pressure springs) . . . . 83
6.13.3 Bunk bed . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 83
6.14 Converting seating groups for
sleeping . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 84
6.14.1 Central seating group with additional
cushion (without bed widening) . . . . . . 84
6.14.2 Central seating group with additional
cushion (with bed widening). . . . . . . . . 85
6.14.3 Central seating group with divan . . . . . 86
7 Gas system. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 87
7.1 General . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 87
7.2 Gas bottles. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 88
7.3 Changing gas bottles . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 89
7.4 Gas isolator taps . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 90
7.5 External gas connection (special
equipment) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 90
7.6 Crash protection unit switching
facility (special equipment) . . . . . . . . . .91
7.7 DuoControl switching facility
(special equipment) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .93
7.8 Gas alarm system (special
equipment) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .94
8 Electrical system . . . . . . . . . . . . .97
8.1 General safety instructions . . . . . . . . . .97
8.2 Terms . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .97
8.3 12 V power supply . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .98
8.3.1 Selector switch for radio (special
equipment) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .98
8.3.2 Starter battery. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .99
8.3.3 Living area battery . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .100
8.4 Transformer/rectifier . . . . . . . . . . . . . .101
8.4.1 Transformer/rectifier (EBL 99) . . . . . .101
8.4.2 Transformer/rectifier (EBL 220) . . . . .104
8.5 Panel IT 96-2 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .106
8.5.1 12 V main switch . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .106
8.5.2 V/tank gauge for battery voltage
and water or waste water levels . . . . .107
8.5.3 Switch for water pump . . . . . . . . . . . .108
8.5.4 Battery alarm for the living area
battery. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .109
8.5.5 12 V indicator lamp. . . . . . . . . . . . . . .109
8.5.6 230 V indicator lamp. . . . . . . . . . . . . .109
8.6 Panel LT 510 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .109
8.6.1 230 V indicator lamp. . . . . . . . . . . . . .110
8.6.2 12 V main switch . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .110
8.6.3 Batteries gauge . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .111
8.6.4 Tank gauge. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .113
8.6.5 Alarms . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .113
8.6.6 Temperature display. . . . . . . . . . . . . .114
8.6.7 Switch for tank heater. . . . . . . . . . . . .114
8.6.8 Switch for water pump . . . . . . . . . . . .115
8.7 Fuel cell (EFOY) (special
equipment) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .115
8.8 Solar installation (special
equipment) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .118
8.9 230 V power supply . . . . . . . . . . . . . .119
8.9.1 230 V connection . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .119
8.9.2 Connecting 230 V power supply. . . . .119
8.10 Fuses . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .120
8.10.1 12 V fuses. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .120
8.10.2 230 V fuse . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .124
8.11 External socket (special
equipment) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .125
8.12 Circuit diagrams . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .126
8.12.1 Circuit diagrams, interior. . . . . . . . . . .126
8.12.2 Circuit diagram, exterior . . . . . . . . . . .131
9 Appliances. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .133
9.1 General. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .133
9.2 Heater. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .134
9.2.1 Models with waste gas vent on the
right-hand side of the vehicle . . . . . . .134

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-Modell - 11/12 - Ausgabe 09/11 - 2096161 - BUE-0036-10EN
Contents
9.2.2 To heat properly . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 134
9.2.3 Truma Combi hot-air heater . . . . . . . 135
9.2.4 Alde hot-water heater
(only Argos 747-2). . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 137
9.2.5 Auxiliary heat exchanger (special
equipment) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 141
9.2.6 Electrical floor warming unit
(special equipment). . . . . . . . . . . . . . 142
9.2.7 Independent vehicle heater
(special equipment). . . . . . . . . . . . . . 143
9.3 Air conditioning unit (special
equipment) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 144
9.3.1 Dometic . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 144
9.3.2 Telair . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 145
9.4 Boiler. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 147
9.4.1 Models with waste gas vent on the
right-hand side of the vehicle . . . . . . 147
9.4.2 Truma Combi boiler. . . . . . . . . . . . . . 147
9.4.3 Alde boiler . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 150
9.5 Cooker. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 151
9.5.1 Gas cooker . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 151
9.5.2 Gas cooker with gas oven and gas
grill (only Argos 747–2) . . . . . . . . . . . 152
9.5.3 Gas oven (Dometic) (special
equipment) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 154
9.5.4 Microwave oven (special
equipment) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 156
9.5.5 Extractor hood (partially special
equipment) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 157
9.6 Refrigerator . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 157
9.6.1 Refrigerator ventilation grill . . . . . . . . 158
9.6.2 Operation (Dometic 8 series with
manual power selection MES) . . . . . 158
9.6.3 Operation (Dometic 8 series with
automatic power selection AES) . . . . 160
9.6.4 Refrigerator door locking
mechanism . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 162
10 Sanitary fittings . . . . . . . . . . . . . 165
10.1 Water supply, general . . . . . . . . . . . . 165
10.2 Water tank. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 166
10.2.1 Volumes . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 166
10.2.2 Drinking water filler neck with
cap . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 166
10.2.3 Closing/opening the overflow . . . . . . 167
10.2.4 Filling with water . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 167
10.2.5 Draining water (handle with
overflow) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 167
10.3 Waste water tank . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 168
10.3.1 Draining waste water. . . . . . . . . . . . . 168
10.3.2 Waste water tank heater (special
equipment) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 169
10.4 Filling the water system. . . . . . . . . . . 170
10.5 Emptying the water system. . . . . . . . 171
10.6 Toilet compartment . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 172
10.7 Toilet . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 172
10.8 Toilet with fixed seat (Thetford
C-402) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 179
11 Care . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 185
11.1 External care . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 185
11.1.1 General . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 185
11.1.2 Washing with a high-pressure
cleaner . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 185
11.1.3 Washing the vehicle. . . . . . . . . . . . . . 186
11.1.4 Windows of acrylic glass . . . . . . . . . . 186
11.1.5 Underbody . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 186
11.1.6 Waste water tank . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 187
11.1.7 Entrance step. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 187
11.2 Interior care . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 187
11.3 Water system. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 188
11.3.1 Cleaning the water tank . . . . . . . . . . . 188
11.3.2 Cleaning the water pipes . . . . . . . . . . 188
11.3.3 Disinfecting the water system . . . . . . 189
11.4 Extractor hood . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 190
11.5 Air conditioning unit . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 190
11.5.1 Dometic . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 190
11.5.2 Telair . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 190
11.6 Winter care . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 191
11.6.1 Preparations . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 191
11.6.2 Winter operation . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 191
11.6.3 At the end of the winter season . . . . . 192
11.7 Lay-up . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 192
11.7.1 Temporary lay-up. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 192
11.7.2 Winter lay-up . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 193
11.7.3 Starting up the vehicle after a
temporary lay-up or after lay-up
over winter . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 194
12 Maintenance. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 197
12.1 Inspection work . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 197
12.2 Maintenance work . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 197
12.3 Doors . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 197
12.4 Living area battery . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 198
12.5 Fuel cell . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 198
12.5.1 Replacing the tank cartridge . . . . . . . 198
12.5.2 Refilling service fluid . . . . . . . . . . . . . 199
12.6 Alde hot-water heater . . . . . . . . . . . . 199
12.6.1 Checking the fluid level . . . . . . . . . . . 200
12.6.2 Topping up heating fluid . . . . . . . . . . 200
12.6.3 Bleeding the heating system . . . . . . . 200
12.6.4 Position of the bleeding valves . . . . . 201
12.7 Independent vehicle heater . . . . . . . . 201
12.8 Replacing bulbs, external . . . . . . . . . 201
12.8.1 Front lights . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 202
12.8.2 Rear lights . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 202
12.8.3 Side lights . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 203
12.8.4 Types of bulbs for exterior
lighting . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 203
12.9 Replacing bulbs, internal . . . . . . . . . . 203
12.9.1 Halogen ceiling lamp . . . . . . . . . . . . . 204
12.9.2 Surface-mounted LED light . . . . . . . . 204

Contents
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12.9.3 Recessed light with LED . . . . . . . . . . 205
12.9.4 Recessed halogen light (flat) . . . . . . . 205
12.9.5 Halogen spotlight (movable) . . . . . . . 206
12.9.6 Halogen spotlight (movable) . . . . . . . 206
12.9.7 Wardrobe light . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 207
12.9.8 Garage light . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 207
12.9.9 Spare parts . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 207
12.10 Vehicle identification plate . . . . . . . . . 208
12.11 Warning and information
stickers. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 209
13 Wheels and tyres . . . . . . . . . . . . 211
13.1 General . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 211
13.2 Tyre selection. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 212
13.3 Tyre specifications . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 213
13.4 Handling of tyres . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 213
13.5 Changing wheels . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 213
13.5.1 General instructions . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 213
13.5.2 Tightening torque . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 214
13.5.3 Changing a wheel . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 215
13.6 Spare wheel support under the
vehicle (special equipment) . . . . . . . . 216
13.7 Spare wheel support (special
equipment) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 217
13.8 Tyre pressure. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 217
14 Troubleshooting. . . . . . . . . . . . . 219
14.1 Braking system . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 219
14.2 Electrical system . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 219
14.3 Fuel cell . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 222
14.4 Gas system . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 222
14.5 Heater/boiler . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 223
14.5.1 Truma heater/boiler . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 223
14.5.2 Alde heater/boiler. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 224
14.6 Air conditioning unit . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 224
14.6.1 Dometic . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 224
14.6.2 Telair . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 225
14.7 Cooker . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 225
14.7.1 Gas cooker/gas oven . . . . . . . . . . . . . 225
14.7.2 Microwave oven . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 226
14.8 Refrigerator . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 226
14.8.1 Dometic 8 series with MES . . . . . . . . 226
14.8.2 Dometic 8 series with AES. . . . . . . . . 227
14.9 Water supply . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 228
14.10 Body. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 229
15 Special equipment. . . . . . . . . . . 231
15.1 Weight details for special
equipment . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 231
16 Technical data . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 235
16.1 View of ground plans . . . . . . . . . . . . . 235
16.2 Table of linear measures . . . . . . . . . . 236
16.3 Power supply . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 237
17 Helpful notes . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 239
17.1 Traffic rules in foreign countries. . . . . 239
17.2 Help on Europe's roads . . . . . . . . . . .239
17.3 Speed limits and permissible
dimensions . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .241
17.4 Driving with low beam in
European countries . . . . . . . . . . . . . .244
17.5 Sleeping in the vehicle away from
camping areas . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .244
17.6 Gas supply in European
countries . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .246
17.7 Toll regulations in European
countries . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .246
17.8 Tips on staying overnight safely
during travel . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .246
17.9 Tips for winter campers . . . . . . . . . . .247
17.10 Travel checklists . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .247
18 Inspection plan . . . . . . . . . . . . . .251

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Introduction 1
1Introduc tion
Please read this instruction manual completely before
using the vehicle for the first time!
Always keep this instruction manual in the vehicle. Also inform all other users
of the safety regulations.
This instruction manual contains sections which describe model-spe-
cific equipment or special equipment. These sections are specially
marked. It may be that your vehicle has not been fitted with this special
equipment. In some cases, the actual equipment of your vehicle may
therefore be different from that shown in some illustrations and descrip-
tions.
However, your vehicle may be fitted with other special equipment not
described in this instruction manual.
Special equipment is described when an explanation is required.
Adhere to the instruction manuals which are separately enclosed.
Should the vehicle be subjected to damage due to a failure to follow the
instructions in this instruction manual, then the guarantee claim is deemed
invalid.
Our vehicles are subjected to continuous development. Please understand
that we reserve the right to alter the form, equipment and technology. There-
fore, no claims can be made against the manufacturer as a result of the con-
tents of this instruction manual. The equipment which was known and included
at the time of going to press is described.
The reprinting, translation and copying, including extracts is not permitted
without prior written authorisation from the manufacturer.
1.1 General
The vehicle is constructed in accordance with the latest technology and the
recognised safety regulations. Nevertheless, personal injury may result and
the vehicle may be damaged if the safety instructions in this instruction manual
are not followed.
XThe non-observance of this symbol can lead to personal injury.
ZThe non-observance of this symbol can lead to damage being caused to,
or inside the vehicle.
ZThis symbol indicates recommendations or special aspects.
ZThis symbol indicates actions which lead to environmental awareness.
ZThe details "right", "left", "front" and "rear" always refer to the vehicle in
direction of travel.
ZAll dimensions and weight details are "approximate".

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Introduction
1
Only use the vehicle in a technically impeccable condition. Follow the instruc-
tions in the instruction manual.
Malfunctions which impair the safety of persons or the vehicle should be
immediately remedied by qualified personnel. To avoid further damages,
observe the duty to avert, minimize or mitigate loss for the user during faults.
Have the vehicle's braking and gas systems inspected and repaired by an
authorised specialist workshop only.
Alterations to the body are only to be carried out with the authorisation of the
manufacturer.
The vehicle is designed for the exclusive transport of persons. Luggage and
accessories may only be transported up to the maximum permissible gross
weight.
Observe the test and inspection periods stipulated by the manufacturer.
1.2 Environmental tips
ZBe considerate of the environment.
ZRemember that: All kinds of waste water and household waste are not to
be disposed of in drains or in the open countryside.
ZOn board, collect waste water only in the waste water tank or – if
necessary – in other containers designed for that purpose.
ZOnly empty the waste water tank and toilet cassette or sewage tank at dis-
posal stations at the camping or caravan sites, which are especially pro-
vided for this purpose. When stopping in towns and communities, observe
the instructions at caravan sites or ask where there are disposal stations.
ZEmpty waste water tank as often as possible, even when it is not com-
pletely full (hygiene).
If possible, flush out waste water tank and, if necessary, drainage pipe with
fresh water every time it is emptied.
ZNever allow the toilet cassette or sewage tank to become too full. Empty
the toilet cassette or sewage tank frequently, at the latest as soon as the
level indicator lights up.
ZSeparate household waste according to glass, tin cans, plastic and wet
waste also when on a journey. Enquire at the town or community authority
about disposal points. Household waste is not to be disposed of in waste
paper baskets which are situated at car parks.
ZEmpty waste bins as often as possible into the containers provided for this
purpose. This helps to avoid unpleasant smells and an accumulation of
rubbish on board.
ZWhen parked, do not allow the engine to run more than necessary. When
running idle, a cold engine releases more contaminants than usual. The
running temperature of the engine is achieved more quickly whilst the
vehicle is in motion.
ZUse an environmentally-friendly WC chemical agent for the WC which can
also be biologically degraded and only use small doses.
ZWhen staying in towns and communities for long periods, search for
parking areas which are specially reserved for motorhomes. Enquire at the
town or community authority about parking spaces.
ZAlways leave the parking places in a clean condition.

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Safety 2
2Safety
Chapter overview
This chapter contains important safety instructions. The safety instructions are
for the protection of persons and property.
The instructions address the following topics:
zfire prevention and what to do in case of fire
zgeneral care of the vehicle
zroad safety of the vehicle
ztowing
zgas system of the vehicle
zelectrical system of the vehicle
zwater system of the vehicle
2.1 Fire prevention
2.1.1 Avoidance of fire risks
2.1.2 Fire-fighting
2.1.3 In case of fire
All windows and doors which meet the following requirements are considered
as emergency exits:
XNever leave children in the vehicle unattended.
XKeep flammable materials clear of heating and cooking appliances.
XLights can get very hot. When the light is switched on, there must always
be a safety distance of 30 cm between light and flammable objects. Fire
hazard!
XNever use portable heating or cooking appliances.
XOnly authorised qualified personnel may make changes to the electrical
system, gas system or appliances.
XAlways carry a dry powder fire extinguisher in the vehicle. The fire extin-
guisher must be approved, tested and close at hand.
XHave the fire extinguisher tested at regular intervals by authorised qual-
ified personnel. Observe the date of testing.
XDepending on the equipment, the fire extinguisher is included in the
scope of delivery.
XAlways keep a fire blanket near the cooker.
XEvacuate all passengers.
XCut off the electrical power supply and disconnect from the mains.
XClose regulator tap on the gas bottle.
XSound the alarm and call the fire brigade.
XFight the fire if this is possible without risk.
ZAcquaint yourself with the position and operation of the emergency exits.
ZKeep escape routes clear.
ZObserve the fire extinguisher instructions for use.

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Safety
2
zOpen to the outside or can be shifted in horizontal direction
zOpening angle at least 70°
zMinimum diameter of clearance = 450 mm
zMaximum distance from the vehicle floor = 950 mm
2.2 General
2.3 Road safety
XThe oxygen in the vehicle interior is used up by breathing and the use of
gas operated appliances. That is why the oxygen needs to be replaced
on a constant basis. For this purpose, forced ventilation options (e.g.
skylights with forced ventilation, mushroom-shaped vents or floor vents)
are fitted to the vehicle. Never cover or block forced ventilations from the
inside or outside with objects such as e.g. a winter mat. Keep forced ven-
tilations clear of snow and leaves. There is a danger of suffocation due
to increased CO2levels.
XObserve the headroom of the doors.
ZAs far as the fitted appliances (heater, cooker, refrigerator, etc.) and the
base vehicle (engine, brakes, etc.) are concerned, the instruction manuals
are authoritative. It is imperative that they be observed.
ZFitting accessories or special equipment can alter the dimensions, weight
and road behaviour of the vehicle. Some of the parts must be entered in
the vehicle papers.
ZOnly use wheel rims and tyres which are approved for the vehicle. Informa-
tion concerning the size of the approved wheel rims and tyres is included
in the vehicle documents or can be obtained from authorised dealers and
service centres.
ZFirmly apply the handbrake when parking the vehicle.
ZIf the maximum permissible gross weight of the vehicle exceeds 4 tonnes,
wheel chocks must be used when parking on gradients. The wheel chocks
are provided as standard for vehicles with a maximum permissible gross
weight exceeding 4 tonnes.
ZWhen leaving the vehicle, it is imperative that all doors, external flaps and
windows are closed.
ZCarry a hazard warning triangle and a first-aid kit and/or flashing hazard
warning light when this is required by law.
ZThe vehicle may only be driven by drivers who hold a driving licence which
is valid for the respective vehicle class.
ZWhen selling the vehicle, hand over all instruction manuals for the vehicle
and the fitted appliances.
XBefore commencing the journey, carry out a functional check of indi-
cating and lighting equipment, the steering and the brakes.
XIf the vehicle has been stationary for a long period (approx. 10 months)
have the braking and gas systems checked by an authorised specialist
workshop.
XBefore commencing the journey and after short interruptions of the
journey, ensure that the entrance step is completely retracted.

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Safety 2
XBefore commencing the journey, open and secure the shades on the
windscreen and on the driver's and front passenger's windows.
XBefore commencing the journey, remove the television from the support
and store it securely.
XBefore commencing the journey, place and secure the flat screen and
screen support in the initial position. If the screen holder is installed in a
TV cabinet: Close TV cabinet.
XBefore commencing the journey, take off the loose sink and drain basin
covers and store them securely in the kitchen unit or the wardrobe.
XBefore commencing the journey, fix adjustable tables.
XBefore commencing the journey, rotate all swivel seats in the direction
of travel and lock in position. During the journey, the swivel seats must
remain locked in place in the direction of travel.
XIt is not permitted to stay in the alcove during the journey.
XDuring the journey, persons are only to sit on the permitted seats (see
chapter 4). The authorised number of seats is stipulated in the vehicle
documents.
XSeat belts must be worn by all passengers.
XFasten your seat belts before the beginning of the journey and keep
them fastened during the journey.
XAlways secure children with the children safety equipment prescribed for
the respective height and weight.
XFactory-set three-point safety belts must be used when attaching child
restraint systems.
XThe base vehicle is a commercial vehicle (small truck). Adjust your
driving technique accordingly.
XIn case of underpasses, tunnels or similar obstacles, note the total
height of the vehicle (including the roof load).
XIn winter, the roof must be free of snow and ice before commencing the
journey.
XCheck tyre pressure before a journey or every 2 weeks. Wrong tyre
pressure causes excessive wear and can lead to damage or even to tyre
burst. You can lose control of the vehicle.
XDo not operate the heater at petrol stations. Danger of explosion!
XDo not operate the heater in closed spaces. Danger of suffocation!
ZBefore commencing the journey, distribute the payload evenly within the
vehicle (see chapter 3).
ZWhen loading the vehicle and when taking a rest from driving, in order to
load luggage or food, for example, observe the maximum permissible
gross weight and axle loads (refer to vehicle documents).
ZBefore commencing the journey, close and lock, if possible, all inner doors,
adjustable partition walls, drawers and flaps. Engage the refrigerator door
securing device.
ZBefore commencing the journey, close windows and skylights.
ZBefore commencing the journey, close all external flaps and lock them.
ZBefore commencing the journey, remove the external supports and retract
the corner steadies or steady legs, which are fitted to the vehicle.

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Safety
2
2.4 Towing
2.5 Gas system
2.5.1 General instructions
ZBefore commencing the journey, put the antenna in park position.
ZDuring the initial journey and each time after changing a wheel, re-tighten
the wheel bolts/wheel nuts after 50 km (30 miles). Subsequently inspect
them at regular intervals in order to ensure that they are firmly seated. See
chapter 13 for tightening torque.
ZTyres may not be older than 6 years as the material becomes brittle over
time (see chapter 13).
ZWhen using snow chains, the tyres, wheel suspension and steering are
subjected to an additional load. When using snow chains, drive slowly
(maximum speed 50 km/h) and only on streets which are completely cov-
ered with snow. Otherwise the vehicle could be damaged.
XCare is to be taken when connecting and detaching a trailer. Risk of acci-
dent and injury!
XNo persons are to be between the towing vehicle and the trailer during
positioning for connecting and detaching.
XBefore commencing the journey, when leaving the vehicle or when gas
equipment is not in use, close all gas isolator taps and the main isolator
tap on the gas bottle.
XNo appliance operated by a naked flame (e.g. heater or refrigerator) may
be in operation when filling the tank, on ferries or in the garage. Danger
of explosion!
XDo not use appliances operated with a naked flame in closed spaces
(e.g. garages). Danger of poisoning and suffocation!
XOnly have the gas system maintained, repaired or altered by an author-
ised specialist workshop.
XHave the gas system checked by an authorised specialist workshop
according to the national regulations before commissioning. This also
applies for not registered vehicles. For modifications to the gas system
have the gas system immediately checked by an authorised specialist
workshop.
XThe gas pressure regulator and exhaust gas pipes must also be
inspected. The gas pressure regulator has to be replaced after 10 years
at the latest. The vehicle owner is responsible for seeing that this is car-
ried out.
XIn case of a defect of the gas system (gas odour, high gas consumption)
there is danger of explosion! Close regulator tap on the gas bottle imme-
diately. Open doors and windows and ventilate well.
XIf the gas system is defective: Do not smoke; do not ignite any open
flames, and do not operate electric switches (light switches etc.).
XBefore using the cooker make sure that there is sufficient ventilation.
Open windows or the skylight.
XDo not use the gas cooker or gas oven for heating purposes.

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Safety 2
2.5.2 Gas bottles
XIf there are several gas devices, each gas device must have its own gas
isolator tap. If individual gas devices are not in use, close the respective
gas isolator tap.
XIgnition safety valves must close within 1 minute after the gas flame has
extinguished. A clicking sound is audible. Check function from time to
time.
XThe built-in gas devices are exclusively meant for use with propane or
butane gas or a mixture of both. The gas pressure regulator as well as
all built-in gas devices are designed for a gas pressure of 30 mbar.
XPropane gas is capable of gasification up to -42 °C, whereas butane gas
gasifies at 0 °C. Below these temperatures no gas pressure is available.
Butane gas is unsuitable for use in winter.
XRegularly inspect the gas tube fitted to the gas bottle connection for
tightness. The gas tube must not have any tears and must not be
porous. Have the gas tube replaced by an authorised specialist work-
shop no later than ten years after the manufacturing date. The operator
of the gas system must see to it that the parts are replaced.
XDue to its function and construction, the gas bottle compartment is a
space which is open to the exterior. Never cover or block up the standard
forced ventilations. Otherwise gas that is emitted can not be diverted to
the outside.
XDo not use the gas bottle compartment as storage space as it is not
moisture-proof.
XSecure the gas bottle compartment against unauthorised access. To do
this, lock the compartment.
XThe regulator tap on the gas bottle must be accessible.
XOnly connect gas-operated devices (e.g. gas grill) which have been
designed for a gas pressure of 30 mbar.
XThe exhaust gas pipe must be fitted tightly to the heating system and to
the vent and must be sealed. The exhaust gas pipe must not show any
evidence of damage.
XExhaust fumes must be able to escape into the atmosphere unhindered
and fresh air must be able to enter unhindered. For this reason, keep the
exhaust pipe and intake openings clean and unobstructed (e.g. free from
snow and ice). For this reason, no snow walls or aprons may lie against
the vehicle.
XGas bottles are only to be transported within the designated gas bottle
compartment.
XPlace the gas bottles in vertical position in the gas bottle compartment.
XFasten the gas bottles so that they are unable to turn or tilt.
XIf the gas bottles are not connected to the gas tube, always place the
protective cap on top.
XClose the regulator tap on the gas bottle before the gas pressure regu-
lator or gas tube are removed from the gas bottle.
XUse your hands only to connect the gas pressure regulator or the gas
tube to the gas bottles. Do not use any tools.

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Safety
2
2.6 Electrical system
2.7 Water system
XOnly use special gas pressure regulators with a safety valve designed
for vehicle use. Other gas pressure regulators are not permitted and
cannot meet the demanding requirements.
XUse the gas pressure regulator defroster if the temperature falls below
5°C.
XUse only 11 kg or 5 kg gas bottles. Camping gas bottles with built-in
check valve (blue bottle with max. 2.5 or 3 kg content) are can be used
in exceptional cases with a safety valve.
XUse the shortest possible tube lengths (150 cm max.) for external gas
bottles.
XNever block the floor ventilation openings below the gas bottles.
XOnly allow qualified personnel to work on the electrical system.
XPrior to carrying out work on the electrical system, switch off all devices
and lights, disconnect the battery and disconnect the vehicle from the
mains.
XOnly use original fuses with the stipulated values.
XOnly replace defective fuses when the cause of the defect is known and
has been remedied.
XNever bridge or repair fuses.
XWater left standing in the water tank or in the water pipes becomes
undrinkable after a short period. Therefore, before each use of the
vehicle, thoroughly clean the water pipes and the water tank. After each
use of the vehicle completely empty the water tank and the water pipes.
XIn the case of lay-ups lasting more than a week disinfect the water
system before using the vehicle.
ZIf the vehicle is not used for several days or if it is not heated when there is
a risk of frost, empty the entire water system. Make certain that the water
pump is switched off on the panel. Otherwise, the water pump will overheat
and may get damaged. Leave the water taps on in central position. Leave
the safety/drainage valve (if there is one) and all drain cocks open. Frost
damage to appliances, frost damage to the vehicle and deposits in water-
carrying components can be avoided in this way.

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Before the journey 3
3Before the jou rney
Chapter overview
This chapter contains important information which has to be noted before com-
mencing your journey or carrying out any tasks before the journey.
The instructions address the following topics:
zkeys
zregistration
zcalculating the payload
zcorrect loading of the vehicle and bike rack
zload rack
ztowing
zretracting and extending the entrance step
zstoring the television
zstoring the sink cover
zsecuring add-on parts
zusing snow chains
At the end of the chapter there is a checklist which once again summarises the
most important points.
3.1 Keys
The following keys are included with your vehicle:
Two keys for
zignition lock
zdriver's and passenger's doors
zfuel tank
Two keys for
zconversion door of the body
zdrinking water filler neck
zexternal flaps
Always deposit a replacement key outside the vehicle. Make a note of the key
number. Our authorised dealers and workshops can offer assistance in case
of loss.
3.2 Registration
Your motorhome is a vehicle which must be registered. Observe national reg-
ulations on registration.
Please remember that certain countries require a separate national code
sticker in addition to the EU plate.

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Before the journey
3
3.3 Payload
On loading, make sure that the payload's centre of gravity is as low as possible
(directly above the floor of the vehicle). Otherwise this may affect the driving
characteristics of the vehicle.
3.3.1 Terms
Maximum permissible
gross weight in a laden
condition
The maximum permissible gross weight in a laden condition is the weight that
a vehicle may never exceed.
The maximum permissible overall weight in laden condition consists of the
mass in ready-to-drive condition and of the payload.
In the vehicle documents, the manufacturer has specified the maximum per-
missible gross weight in a laden condition.
Permitted mass The permitted mass is the weight specified by the manufacturer for issuing the
type approval. The permitted mass must never exceed the maximum permis-
sible gross weight of the loaded vehicle.
XOverloading the vehicle and wrong tyre pressure can cause tyres to
burst. You can lose control of the vehicle.
XOnly the maximum permissible gross weight and the mass in a ready-to-
drive condition, not the actual weight of the vehicle, is stated in the
vehicle documents. For your own safety, we recommend that you have
your loaded vehicle (with all passengers, luggage and personal objects)
weighed on a public weighbridge before you set out on your journey.
XAdapt the speed to the payload. The stopping distance is increased if the
payload is high.
ZDo not exceed the maximum permissible gross weight stated in the vehicle
documents by the payload.
ZBuilt-in accessories and special equipment reduce the payload.
ZAdhere to the axle load stated in the vehicle documents.
Description Load (kg)
Maximum permitted
payloads
Overcab bed 200
Bunk bed 100
Roof load 200
Rear garage and rear storage space 200
Bike rack Double 60
Triple 60
Load rack (AL-KO) 150
Load rack (SAWIKO) 130
ZTechnically speaking, the term "mass" has now replaced the term "weight".
However, "weight" is still the term more frequent in common use. For better
understanding, "mass" is therefore only used in the following sections for
fixed formulations.
ZAll specifications according to EU norm DIN EN 1646-2.

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Before the journey 3
Mass in ready-to-drive
condition
The mass in ready-to-drive condition is the weight of the ready-to-drive
standard vehicle.
The mass in ready-to-drive condition is made up as follows:
zUnladen weight (mass of the empty vehicle) with factory-installed standard
equipment
zDriver's weight
zBasic equipment weight
Unladen weight includes lubricants such as oils and coolants which have been
filled, the on-board tool set, the spare wheel and a fuel tank which has been
filled up to 90 %.
75 kg are calculated for the weight of the driver, regardless of how much the
driver really weighs.
Basic equipment includes all equipment and fluids required for safe and proper
vehicle use. The weight of the basic equipment includes:
zWater system filled up to 90 % (water tank and pipes)
zGas bottles filled up to 90 %
zA full heating system
zThe power cables for the 230 V power supply
zA full toilet flushing system
zThe installation kit for an auxiliary battery if an auxiliary battery can be used
The waste water and sewage tanks are empty.
In the vehicle documents, the manufacturer specifies the mass in ready-to-
drive conditions.
Payload The payload is made up as follows:
zConventional load
zAdditional equipment
zPersonal equipment
You will find explanations on the individual components of the payload in the
following text.
Conventional load The conventional load is the weight specified by the manufacturer for the pas-
sengers.
Conventional load means: 75 kg are calculated for every seat specified by the
manufacturer, regardless of how much the passengers actually weigh. The
driver's seat is already included as part of the mass in ready-to-drive condition
and must not be calculated as part of the conventional load.
In the vehicle documents, the manufacturer specifies the number of seats.
Example for calculating
the basic equipment
Water tank with 120 l 120 kg
Gas bottles (2 x 11 kg gas + 2 x 14 kg bottle)+ 50 kg
Boiler with 12 l + 12 kg
230 V power cable + 4 kg
Installation kit for auxiliary battery + 20 kg
Total = 206 kg
ZThe vehicle's payload can be increased by reducing the weight in a ready-
to-drive condition. To do this, it is allowed for example to empty the fluid
containers or to remove the gas bottles.

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Before the journey
3
Additional equipment Additional equipment includes accessories and special equipment. Examples
of additional equipment include:
zCaravan coupling
zRoof rail
zAwning
zBike or motorcycle rack
zSatellite unit
zMicrowave oven
Chapter 15 lists the weights of the various items of special equipment; they
may also be obtained from the manufacturer.
Personal equipment Personal equipment includes all items in the vehicle that are not included in
the conventional load or in the additional equipment. For example, personal
equipment can include the following:
zFoodstuffs
zCrockery
zTelevision
zRadio
zClothes
zBedding
zToys
zBooks
zToiletries
No matter where kept, personal equipment also includes:
zAnimals
zBikes
zBoats
zSurfboards
zSports equipment
For the personal equipment, according to the applicable regulations, the man-
ufacturer must use a minimum weight that is determined according to the fol-
lowing formula:
Formula Minimum weight M (kg) = 10 x N + 10 x L
Explanation N = maximum number of people including the driver, as stated by the manu-
facturer
L = total length of the vehicle in metres
3.3.2 Calculating the payload
XThe payload calculation at the factory is partly based on all-inclusive
weights. For safety reasons, the maximum permissible gross weight in
a laden condition must not be exceeded.
XOnly the maximum permissible gross weight and the mass in a ready-to-
drive condition, not the actual weight of the vehicle, is stated in the
vehicle documents. For your own safety, we recommend that you have
your loaded vehicle (with all passengers, luggage and personal objects)
weighed on a public weighbridge before you set out on your journey.

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Before the journey 3
The payload (see section 3.3.1) is the difference in weight between
zMaximum permissible gross weight in a laden condition and
zVehicle mass complete in a ready-to-drive condition.
The calculation of the payload from the difference between the maximum per-
missible gross weight in laden condition and the mass specified by the manu-
facturer in ready-to-drive condition is however only a theoretical value.
Only if the vehicle is weighed with full tanks (fuel and water), full gas bottles
and complete additional equipment on a public weighbridge, can the actual
payload be determined.
To do this, proceed as follows:
First only drive the vehicle on to the weighbridge with the front wheels and
have it weighed.
Then drive the vehicle on to the weighbridge with the back wheels and have
it weighed.
The individual values give the current axle loads. These are important for the
correct loading of the vehicle (see section 3.3.3). The sum of these values is
the current weight of the vehicle.
The actual payload is the difference between the maximum permissible gross
weight in laden condition and the weighed vehicle weight.
This can be used to determine the weight that remains for the personal equip-
ment:
Determine the weight of the passengers and subtract it from the value for
the actual payload.
The result is the weight that is permitted for the actual load of the personal
equipment.
3.3.3 Loading the vehicle correctly
Mass in kg to be
calculated
Calculation
Example for calculating
the payload
Maximum permissible gross weight ac-
cording to vehicle documents
3500
Vehicle mass in a ready-to-drive condi-
tion, including basic equipment according
to vehicle documents
- 3070
This results in a permissible payload
of
430
Conventional load e.g.: 3 persons each
weighing 75 kg
- 225
Additional equipment - 40
For the personal equipment this re-
sults in
= 165
XFor safety reasons, never exceed the maximum permissible gross
weight in a laden condition.
XDistribute the load evenly on the left and right sides of the vehicle.

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Before the journey
3
Large storage spaces, such as the rear garage, also have room for heavy
objects (e.g. motorcycle). This might mean that the axle load on the rear axle
is exceeded.
However, the individual axles may not be overloaded under any circum-
stances. That is why it is important, at which distance to the axles the load is
stored.
To distribute the load correctly, you will need a scale, a tape measure, a cal-
culator and some time.
Two simple formulas are needed to calculate the effect of the weight of the
load on the axles:
Formulas A x G : R = weight on the rear axle
Weight on the rear axle – G = weight on the front axle
Explanation A = distance between storage compartment and front axle in cm
G = weight of the load in the storage compartment in kg
R = wheelbase of the vehicle (distance between axles) in cm
Calculating axle loads: Multiply the distance between storage compartment and front axle (A) with
the weight of the load in the storage compartment (G) and divide the result
by the wheelbase (R). The result is the weight of the load in the storage
compartment on the rear axle. Make a note of this weight and of the storage
compartment.
In a second step, subtract the weight in the storage compartment (G) from
the weight calculated beforehand. If the result is a positive value
(example 1), this means that the load on the front axle is reduced by this
value. If the result is a negative value (example 2), this means that the load
on the front axle is increased. Make a note of this value, too.
Calculate all storage compartments of the vehicle in the same way.
In a last step, add all weights calculated for the rear axle to the rear axle
load and add (or subtract) all weights calculated for the front axle to (from)
the front axle load.
How to determine rear axle load and front axle load is described in
section 3.3.2.
XDistribute the load evenly on both axles. In doing so, observe the axle
loads specified in the vehicle documents. Observe the permissible load-
carrying capacity of the tyres (see chapter 13).
XHeavy loads behind the rear axle can reduce the load on the front axle
due to the leverage effect ( ). This applies especially to long rear
extensions, if a motorbike is transported on the rear carrier or if there is
a heavy load in the rear storage space. The release of the front axle neg-
atively affects the driving quality, especially for front-driven vehicles.
XStore all objects in such a way that they cannot slip.
XStore heavy objects (awning, tin cans, etc.) close to the axles. Low-lying
storage compartments whose doors do not open in the direction of travel
are particularly suited for storing heavy objects.
XStack light objects (laundry) in the roof storage cabinets.
XLoad the bike rack with bicycles only (max. three units).
ZMeasure the external distances horizontally from the centre of the front
wheel to the centre of the storage compartment or to the centre of the back
wheel.