Country Coach Inspire 360 User manual

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Inspire 360
Before Leaving
Before Leaving
Exterior
1.1
Interior
1.2
Supplies
1.3
Walk-Around Inspection
1.3
Engine Operation
1.6
Backing Procedure
1.8
Kwikee Step Operation
1.8
Smoke and Gas Safety
1.9
Emergency Exits
1.12
Traveling Safely
1.12
Safety Belts
1.12
Tire Safety
1.15
Country Coach Tire Inflation Policy
1.18
Loading the Motor Home 1.19
Towing a Vehicle or Trailer
1.23
Auxiliary Brake Requirements
1.25
Emergency Towing of Your Motorcoach
1.25
Dry Camping
1.29

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BEFORE LEAVING
Note: The letters FE refer to information unique to the Inspire 360 Founder's Edition.
Check the following items before leaving on a trip:
Exterior
• Check for cracks, chips, or other obstructions in mirrors, windows, and lenses.
• For additional safety, turn
off the gas valve on the LP tank (this disables all
of the gas-powered appliances, except the refrigerator, which can also be
operated electrically).
• Disconnect and store the
power cord. Disconnect the television cable,
telephone line,
city water supply, and sewer system connection. Be sure all
sewer compartments, storage compartment doors, and fuel compartment
doors are closed and secured.
• Check fluid levels, including engine oil, battery water, radiator coolant,
transmission fluid, power steering fluid, and hydraulic fluid. Refer to the
Chassis part
of this manual for information on checking fluid levels.
• Check the battery tray(s)
to be sure they are locked in place.
• Check the storage areas
to be sure all items are adequately secured.
• Check the (optional) storage roll-out tray(s) to be sure they are secured.
Make sure
bay doors are closed, latched, and locked.
• Be sure the computer-assisted leveling system is in travel mode.
! WARNING
Before moving your coach, the green Travel indicator light must be on.
Do NOT move the coach until the HWH leveling system is in Travel mode.
• Inspect the area around and under the coach for obstructions, including the
fender well areas. Inspect
for correct travel height. Retract slide-out rooms,
if applicable. Always check behind the coach before backing; use a spotter
if necessary.
• Remove any wheel chocks .
• Retract, secure, and lock awnings in the travel position.
• Go to the front of the coach, and check that both of the low-beam
headlights turn on and
both of the four-way hazard flashers are working.
Inspire 360
Before Leaving
House 1.1

Inspire 360
Before Leavi,ng
1.2 House
This would be a good time to verify that both turn indicators are functional.
• Pull the headlight dimmer switch and verify that the high-beam lights are
working. Turn
off the headlights and four-way hazard flashers.
• Turn on the parking, clearance, side marker, and identification lights.
• Make sure the hitch receiver tube is securely pinned with the retaining clip.
! WARNING
Interior
Country Coach recommends that the weight of the tow load NOT
exceed 10,000 pounds, and the tongue weight not exceed 600 pounds
within eight inches of the coupling. Failure to observe these weight
recommendations may result in damage to the vehicle as well as void
the warranty for such damage.
• For safety, deadbolt the entrance door.
• Close all roof vents. Traveling with the roof vents open creates a suction
that defeats the effectiveness of the over-the-road air conditioning and
heater.
• Be sure loose items in the refrigerator are secure, the door is latched, and
all heavy items are
moved to the fixed shelving.
• Secure pocket doors.
• Secure all interior cabinet doors and drawers. Avoid putting heavy articles in
overhead cabinets;
they may fall out while traveling and cause injury.
• Clear items from counter and table tops, and store the sink and stove top
covers in the space provided. Even small items can inflict serious injury
during an
accident.
• Cooking while traveling is not safe - hot liquids or food can cause injury
during a
sudden stop.
• Lower any roof-mounted television antennas or satellite dishes.
• Adjust the mirrors and seats before departing.
• Check all dash gauges and warning lights to be sure that all coach systems
are functioning correctly.
• Check fluid levels for the diesel fuel, and the hydraulic system, as well as
the fresh-, gray-, and
black-water tanks.
• Check the operation of the brakes.
• Test the generator for proper operation.
• Ensure all passengers are using safety belts before leaving.
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Supplies
Keep the following supplies in the coach in case of an emergency:
• Typical emergency road kit, including flares, reflective triangles, an
inexpensive 12 VDC test light, a digital multimeter, spare fuses and light
bulbs, and a first aid
kit
• Tool box containing screwdrivers of various types and sizes, open- or box-
end wrenches 14" to 1", vise grips, wire cutters, crimpers and strippers,
pliers, adjustable wrenches, black electrical tape, duct tape, and an
assortment of nylon cable ties. A good pair of work gloves is also a useful
and welcome addition to any tool kit
• Tow cable or chain, 20,000 lb. minimum pull strength
• Four quarts of transmission fluid and eight quarts of motor oil
• One gallon propolyne glycol antifreeze/coolant
for engine cooling system,
such as Fleetguard
ES Compleat
• Flashlight
with extra batteries
• 2S-foot potable water hose
• Extra black-water tank chemicals
• Wooden "strike-anywhere"
matches
• A long-handled squeegee, a long funnel, and a two-gallon plastic bucket
Walk-Around Inspection
General
• Walk around and inspect the overall condition of the coach.
• Clean all lights, reflectors, and glass.
•
Check all wheels and rims:
-Condition of wheel and rim: no sign of misalignment, no missing, bent,
or
broken studs or lugs. Damage to rim edges may develop into cracks later.
-Use a wrench to test rust-streaked lug nuts; this may indicate looseness.
- Make sure lug-nut covers are securely fastened. Check tires and see that
the pressures are set to the tire tag specifications. (See also Country Coach
Tire Inflation Policy later
in this chapter.) Check tires for wear and damage.
• Tires - check for:
-Proper inflation -
to tire tag specifications (Also see Country Coach Tire
Inflation Policy later in this chapter)
-Unusual appearance
of the tread or sidewalls, such as separation at seams,
bead, in between tread ribs,
or bulges in the sidewalls
Inspire 360
Before Leaving
House 1.3

Inspire 360
Before Leaving
1.4 House
-Road debris, rocks, pieces of metal, or other foreign objects wedged into
the treads and between the dual tires
-Valve stems and caps
OK
• Fuel tank:
- Not damaged or leaking
-Cap(s} on and secure
-Overflow valve vent
tube damage-free and clear of obstructions
Left Front Side
• Driver's windows should be clean.
•
Door latches or locks should work properly.
•
Left front suspension:
-Shock absorber condition -have worn or leaking shocks replaced.
•
Left front brake:
-Condition of brake hoses and connections -service and/or replace as
necessary.
Front
• Condition of front suspension
• Condition of steering system:
-No loose, worn, bent, damaged, or missing parts
-With the engine off, attempt to turn the steering wheel to test for looseness
in the system.
• Condition of windshield/wipers:
-Check windshield for damage, and clean if dirty
-Check wiper arms for proper spring tension
-Check
wiper blades for damage, stiff rubber, and security. If dirty, clean with
special wipes designed for this purpose.
• Lights and reflectors:
-Headlights, parking, clearance, and identification lights are clean and operating.
-Reflectors are clean;
left and right turn signals -clean and operating.
• Mirrors - check for:
-Damage
to the mirror housing
-Damage
to the glass or reflective surface
-Correct adjustment
for proper visibility, prior to leaving
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Right Front
• Driver's windows should be clean.
• Door latches or locks should work properly.
• Right front suspension:
-Shock absorber condition -have worn or leaking shocks replaced.
• Right front brake:
-Condition
of brake discs and hoses -service and/or replace as necessary.
Right and Left Rear
• Tires same size and type: not mixed radial and bias ply
• Wheel bearing/seals: not leaking
• Check engine belts and hoses for cracks or tears.
• Check for foreign objects stuck between dual tires.
• Suspension:
-Axles
not leaking oil
-Worn
or leaking shock absorbers
-Check
for fluid beneath the coach suspension components
• Brakes:
-Any required service should
be performed by qualified service
technicians only.
-Condition
of hoses: look for cracks, leaks, or any wear due to rubbing
• Lights and reflectors:
-Side-marker lights and reflectors: clean and operating
Rear
• Engine compartment
-Rear of engine: not leaking
-Transmission: not leaking
-Exhaust system: secure,
not leaking or touching wires
-Frame and cross members: no bends
or cracks
-Air lines/electrical wiring: secure from snags, rubbing, and wear
Inspire 360
Before Leaving
House 1.5

Inspire 360
Before Leaving
Figure 1.1
Ladder extension
attachment
1.6 House
• Lights and reflectors:
-Clearance and identification lights: clean, operating, and proper color
-Reflectors: clean and proper color (red at
rear)
-Taillights: clean, operating, and proper color (red at rear)
-Rear turn signal lights: clean, operating, and proper color (amber
or red)
• License plate(s): clean, secured, lighted, and up to date
• Splash guard(s): properly fastened, not damaged, dragging on the ground
or rubbing tires
Parking Brake
Rear Ladder with Universal Extension (option)
The optional rear ladder enables access to the roof and
the components found there, such
as sky lights, vents,
antennas, and the air horns. To reach the main part of
the ladder, a "universal" extension
is located in one of
the storage bays. As diagrammed in Figure 1.1, rotate
the extension to the horizontal position and slip the
C-shaped ends over the lower step of the main ladder.
Then lower the extension until it rests against the coach
at the bottom.
To check parking brake operation (in an open and clear area):
1 Fasten safety belt.
2
Allow the vehicle to move forward slowly.
3
Apply parking brake. If the vehicle does not stop, the parking brake may be
faulty and should be checked.
Engine Operation
Before Starting the Engine
• Perform the engine pre-trip inspection and daily maintenance checks as
required in
your chassis owner's manual.
• In colder climates, it may be advisable to pre-heat the engine before starting.
Find the 120
VAG plug in the back of the coach, located near the trailer
hitch. Plug it into a standard household 120
VAG outlet. GFGI protection on
that outlet would be prudent as the heater would typically be operated in an
outdoor environment. The block heater power requirements are 120 volts,
1500 Watts, at 12.5 amps, about the same as a typical hair dryer.
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The heater should be plugged in for at least 2 hours before attempting an
engine start. The coolant
temp gauge should rise faster than normal once
the engine
is started.
• Ensure all occupants take their seats and buckle their safety belts.
• Turn off the headlights and accessories.
Starting Your Engine
1 Turn the ignition switch to on, and make sure that the transmission is in
neutral
(N), and the parking brake is set.
2 Rotate
the key clockwise to the start position. When the engine starts, let
go of the key. The idle speed reduces as the engine warms.
! CAUTION
Do not crank the engine for more than 30 seconds at a time; wait two
minutes after each try to allow the starter to cool. Failure to do so
could cause starter damage.
! WARNING
Do NOT drive the unit until the oil pressure gauge reading is normal.
If there is no oil pressure indicated on the oil pressure gauge in the
dashboard display, shut down the engine immediately to prevent
serious damage. Do not operate until the cause of the problem has
been corrected.
Engine Break-In Period
Your engine must pass a full-load operation test on a dynamometer before shipment
from the chassis manufacturer, thereby eliminating the need for
an extended break-in
period. Only
an initial operational check is necessary. Proper operation and
maintenance
are key factors in obtaining the maximum life and economy from your
vehicle engine. Please follow the directions
in your chassis operation and maintenance
manual for trouble-free engine operation.
Engine Shutdown
1 With the vehicle stopped, apply the parking brake and reduce the engine
speed
to low idle.
2 Place the transmission range selector in N (Neutral).
3 Turn off the ignition key
to shut down the engine.
Inspire 360
Before Leaving
House 1.7

------------------_._--------
Inspire 360
Before Leaving
1.8 House
Service Brakes
To check service brake operation:
1 Check that the system air pressure gauge is indicating the minimum
required
air pressure (85 psi)
2 Travel
about 5 mph; apply the brakes.
3 Push brake pedal firmly.
"Pulling"
to one side may mean brake adjustment is required.
Any unusual brake pedal "feel", noises,
or delayed stopping may indicate
further inspection
of the brake system is required.
Backing Procedure
Use care when backing your coach:
• Check for obstructions behind the coach.
• Check the entire backing route for obstacles.
• Watch the
backup monitor to ensure a clear backing route is available.
Use another person as a spotter! (Small 2-way radios or a cellphone for
passenger-to-driver communication are helpful in this instance.)
Kwikee Step Operation
The following table outlines the operation of your coach's entry step.
! CAUTION
Watch your step when entering or exiting your coach. Before operating
the step, be sure there are no external obstructions that would prevent
extending the step safely.
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Figure 1.2
Figure 1.3
LP gas tank (Inspire 360)
LP gas tank (Inspire 360 FE)
Smoke and Gas Safety
LP Gas Information
! WARNING
• Do NOT place LP gas containers inside the vehicle. LP gas containers
are equipped with safety devices that relieve excessive pressure by
discharging gas to the atmosphere.
• It is NOT safe to use cooking appliances for comfort heating. Cooking
appliances need fresh air circulation for safe operation.
Before operation:
• Open overhead vents or turn on the exhaust fan (not to include microwave
fan).
• Open a window to provide an adequate supply of fresh air. Unlike houses,
the oxygen supply in a motorcoach is limited. Proper ventilation when
using
the cooking appliance(s) helps prevent danger of asphyxiation. The
danger of asphyxiation increases as cooking appliances are used for
longer periods of time.
! WARNING
• Do Not fill container(s) to more than 80% of capacity. Overfilling the
LP gas container may result in uncontrolled gas flow which can cause
fire or explosion.
Inspire 360
Before Leaving
House 1.9

Inspire 360
Before Leaving
Figure 1.3
LP gas detector
1.10 House
! WARNING
• Portable fuel burning equipment, including wood and charcoal grills
and stoves, should NOT be used inside the coach. Doing so may
cause fire or asphyxiation.
• Do not store LP gas containers, gasoline or other flammable liquids
inside the vehicle: fire or explosion may result.
• To respond to the smell of gas:
1 Extinguish all open flames, pilot lights, and smoking materials.
2 Do NOT use electrical switches.
3 Shut off the gas supply at the tank valve(s) or gas supply connection.
4 Open doors and other ventilation openings.
5 Leave the area until the odor clears.
6 Have the gas system checked and leakage source corrected before
using it again.
LP Gas Detector
The LP gas detector (Figure 1.3) alerts coach occupants to the presence of free
gas within the coach. Since LP gas is heavier than air and the gas powered
appliances are clustered in the kitchen area, the detector is located near floor level
within the kitchen.
The
LP gas detector receives power from the house
battery through a circuit protected by a 3-amp fuse.
The detector draws very little energy and continues to
operate until the battery
is drained to as low as 7 volts.
If the supply battery is drained below this, the detector
cannot be reset until the battery charge is restored to a
minimum of 10
VDC.
When the gas detector is switched on (whenever power is supplied to the coach
interior) the green "Operating"
LED illuminates. There is then a 60-second delay
before the unit begins monitoring for any combustible vapors. When gas is detected
by the sensor, a pulsating alarm sounds, and the red "Alarm"
LED illuminates.
The alarm does not go off until either the gas
has dissipated or the Mute button is
pressed. However, if gas is still present, the alarm returns after 60 seconds.
! WARNING
When the alarm sounds, open all available windows and doors to
ventilate the area, and turn off the gas at the tank. Do NOT re-enter the
affected area until the alarm stops sounding.
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If the LP gas detector has not been used for a long period of time, or the power
source has been disconnected, the alarm sounds. Reset by switching the detector
off for a few seconds, then back
to the on position.
If the alarm continues after two or three resets, follow these steps:
1 Check the battery to be sure
it is sufficiently charged.
2 Air out the coach and fan the sensor
in the gas detector. The detector
is also sensitive to fumes such as alcohol, hair spray, carbon monoxide,
deodorants, and some cleaning agents.
3 If the alarm continues to sound, have a qualified LP gas dealer or RV
service center test for gas leaks and make necessary repairs.
! NOTICE
A manual shutoff valve to the cooktop has been incorporated into the
LP gas line and is located below this unit.
For more information, see the LP gas detector card located in your Coach
Information Kit.
Fire Safety Devices
For your safety and convenience, Country Coach installs at least one dry-chemical
type fire extinguisher (Class 1:10 BC), one battery-powered smoke detector, and one
hard-wired carbon monoxide detector as standard equipment.
The fire extinguisher
is located near the entry door. The smoke detector is mounted
within the galley/dinette area and the carbon monoxide detector
is installed in the
dinette area.
All of these safety devices have instructions for inspection, maintenance, and use
printed
on their labels. For your safety, it is strongly suggested that you become
completely familiar with each device.
Carbon Monoxide Detector
Carbon monoxide (CO) is a very dangerous gas that is odorless,
colorless, tasteless, and nonirritating.
For your safety and convenience, all
Country Coach motorcoaches come equipped with a carbon monoxide
detector
(Figure 1.4).
This solid-state infrared sensor device is typically mounted on the
underside of the cabinets or
on a wall near mid coach. It has a standard
9-volt battery as backup in case power to the device is cut off.
Operation:
Inspire 360
Before Leaving
Normal: Red LED flashes every 30 seconds, indicating operation.
Figure 1.4
Alarm: Red LED flashes and pulsating horn sounds.
Carbon monxide detector (typical)
Trouble/Service: Red LED flashes and horn beeps once every 30 seconds.
House 1.11

Inspire 360
Before Leaving
1.12 House
Test: One beep, followed by LED flashing 4 to 5 times, followed by 2 alarm
signals.
Test the CO detector weekly.
For more information, see the carbon monoxide detector information located in your
Coach Information Kit.
! NOTICE
It is very important that the CO detector be tested after the coach
has been in storage, before each trip, and at least once each week
during use. See the carbon monoxide detector information for complete
testing procedures.
Emergency Exits
Recreational vehicles are required to have a minimum of two emergency exits. Please
take the time to familiarize yourself with the alternate emergency exit located in the
rear bedroom on the driver's side.
Note: It is clearly identified as EXIT.
It is equipped with either one or two handles that are colored red. To gain egress,
you must either pull or twist the handle(s), then push out the window.
Traveling Safely
Your unit was designed to be open and spacious. While this provides delightful
aspects to traveling, it also requires additional safety awareness. All loose objects
can become potentially dangerous projectiles
in the event of sudden stops and
maneuvers. To eliminate this hazard, be sure
all loose objects are properly secured.
Closets, drawers, and cabinet doors are provided with latches for this purpose.
Before each trip, check
all open areas to verify that gear has been properly
stowed. Check all appliances, doors,'and drawers for proper locking or latching. All
passengers should sit in designated seating areas only. Fasten the safety belt by
engaging the buckle, and adjust the belt by pulling the excess through the clamping
mechanism at the buckle. The belt should be snug, with the buckle positioned for
your comfort and easy access.
Safety Belts
Due to the unique configuration of recreational vehicles, not all seating positions
are equipped with safety belts. Those seats not equipped with safety belts should
not be occupied while the vehicle is in motion. Since these are not equipped with
safety belts, they provide no protection
in the event of a sudden stop, maneuver,
or
an accident.
While in transit, all occupants must sit in seats equipped with safety belts. For your
own safety, do not get up
and move around the coach while it is in motion.
The following instructions describe how to wear safety belts properly.
(See Figure 1.5,
page 1.13)
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To use the lap/shoulder safety belt:
1 Close and lock the entry door.
2
Adjust the seat so you can sit up straight.
3 Pull the belt across you.
Don't let it get twisted.
4 Push the latch plate into the buckle until
it clicks. If the belt
stops before it reaches the buckle, tilt the latch plate and keep
pulling until you can buckle it. If the belt is not long enough, see
the Safety Belt Retrofit section (pg. 1.15).
5 Make sure the release button on
the buckle faces upward
or outward so you would be able to unbuckle it quickly, if
necessary.
! WARNING
Atwisted belt can seriously injure you. In a crash, you
wouldn't have the full width of the belt to spread impact
forces. If a belt is twisted, make it straight so it can
work properly or ask your dealer to fix it. To unlatch
the belt, push the button on the buckle. The belt should
retract out of the way.
6 Wear the belt low and snug on the hips, just touching the
thighs. In a crash, this technique applies force
to the strong
pelvic bones and you are less likely
to slide under the lap belt.
If you were to slide under it, the belt would apply force to your
abdomen. This could cause serious or even fatal injuries.
7 Press the red colored button on the buckle to unlatch the belt.
! CAUTION
Children
There are special things to know about safety belts and
children. And there are different rules for babies and
smaller children. If a child is riding in your coach, refer
to the section for children. Follow the instructions there
for everyone's protection.
Everyone in the motorcoach needs protection! That includes infants and all
children smaller than adult size. In fact, the law in every U.S. state and
Canadian province specifies that children beyond a specific age and
weight must be restrained while
in a vehicle.
Inspire 360
Before Leaving
Correct seat belt placement
Lap belt worn low across hips and
shoulder belt placed properly on
shoulder.
Incorrect seat belt placement
Belt should never be worn
with the shoulder belt
behind the back.
Incorrect seatbelt placement
Shoulder belt should never be
worn across chest and under arm.
Figure 1.5
Proper use of seat belt
House 1.13

Inspire 360
Before Leaving
1.14 House
Smaller Children and Babies
Smaller children and babies should always be restrained in a child or infant restraint.
The instructions for the restraint note whether it
is the correct type and size for your
child. A very young child's hip bones are so small that a regular belt does not properly
stay low on the hip. Instead, the belt ends up over the child's abdomen.
In a crash,
the belt would apply force over the child's abdomen, which could cause serious or
fatal injuries. Be sure that any child small enough for one is always properly restrained
in a child or infant restraint.
! WARNING
Never hold a baby in your arms while riding in a vehicle. A baby doesn't
weigh much - until a crash. During a crash a baby becomes so heavy
you can't hold it. For example, in a crash at only 25 mph (40 km/h),
a 12-pound (5.5 kg) baby suddenly becomes the equivalent of 250
pounds (110 kg) on your arms. Result: The baby would be almost
impossible to hold. Always secure the baby in an infant restraint.
Child restraint systems are designed to be secured in the vehicle by lap belts and
should
be secured in accordance with the restraint system manufacturer's instructions.
! NOTICE
Never allow two children to wear the same belt. The belt can't
properly spread the impact forces. In a crash, the two children can
be crushed together and seriously injured. Only one person must use
a safety belt at a time!
Larger Children
The vehicle's safety belts should be worn by children who have outgrown child
restraints. Accident statistics show that children are safer when belted in, but they
need to use the safety belts properly. Children who aren't buckled up can be thrown
out
in a crash or can strike other people. Wherever the child sits, the belt should be
worn low and snug on the hips, just touching the child's thighs. This applies belt
force to the child's pelvic bones in a crash.
Safety Belt Use During Pregnancy
Like all occupants, expectant mothers are more likely to be seriously injured if they do
not wear safety belts. A pregnant woman should wear the
lap belt as low as possible
throughout the pregnancy. The best way to protect the fetus
is to protect the mother.
When a safety belt
is worn properly, it is more likely that the fetus won't be injured
in a crash. For pregnant women - as for anyone -the key to making safety belts
effective is wearing them properly.
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Safety Belt Retrofit
If the vehicle's safety belt fastens around you, use it. But if a safety belt is not long
enough to fasten, your motorcoach can be retrofitted with
an extended-length safety
belt. Your dealer or other authorized Country Coach service center will order a
custom-length safety belt that works properly and comfortably for you. Be sure to
get extended safety belts for each seat you may occupy while traveling.
! WARNING
Torn or frayed belts may not protect you in a crash. They can rip apart
under impact forces. If a belt is torn or frayed, replace it immediately.
The model number on the replacement belt must be listed on the
safety belt you want to replace.
Checking Your Restraint System
Periodically, make sure all your belts, buckles, latch plates, retractors, and anchorage
are working properly. Look for any loose parts or damage. If you see anything that
might keep a restraint system from doing its job, have it repaired or replaced.
Replacing Safety Belts After a Collision
After a very minor collision, your safety belts may still be in good working condition.
But if the belts were stretched,
as they would be if worn during a more severe
accident, then new belts may
be required. If belts are cut or damaged, replace them.
Collision damage may also mean you need to have safety belt parts, like the retractor,
replaced or anchorage locations repaired,
even if the belt wasn't being used at the
time of the collision.
Contact your selling dealer or authorized Country Coach service center for
assistance
in replacing the safety belt.
Traveling with Pets
Traveling with the family pet may be enjoyable but RVs are typically not equipped to
properly secure them. In an accident, unrestrained pets in the coach can be thrown
around and become injured
as well as injure other occupants. Specialty pet supply
stores carry safety belts for some varieties of pets.
Tire Safety
The tires selected for your motorcoach are a very complex and precisely-engineered
product. To obtain the maximum
safe use and best service out of your tires, it is helpful
to understand the function of the tire. It is the combination of pressurized air and the
tire's structural elements
(sidewall, belts, etc.) that supports the vehicle and its contents.
In addition, since the tire is the only contact that the vehicle has with the road
surface, it must perform other functions such
as traction for moving, stopping, and
steering,
as well as provide a cushion for the vehicle.
Inspire 360
Before Leaving
House 1.15

Inspire 360
Before Leaving
1.16 House
The Importance of Air Pressure
The most important factor in maximizing the life of your tires is maintaining proper
cold-tire inflation pressures. Driving on any tire that does not have the correct
inflation pressure for the load of the vehicle is dangerous and may cause premature
wear, tire damage, and/or loss of control of the vehicle. Maintaining correct tire
inflation pressure is of the utmost importance and must be a part of regular vehicle
maintenance.
Under-inflation causes a buildup of excessive heat. Under-inflation could
result in sudden tire failure. A tire that is under-inflated also causes poor
vehicle handling, rapid tire wear, and a decrease in fuel economy.
Over-inflation reduces the tire's footprint, or contact point with the road,
thus reducing vehicle traction, braking capacity, and road handling. A tire
that is overinflated for the load that it is carrying also contributes to a harsh
ride and uneven tire
wear and is more susceptible to impact damage.
Federal law requires that the tire's maximum load rating be molded into the
sidewall of the tire. If you look there, you can see the maximum load allowed
and the cold air inflation pressure required to carry that stated maximum
load. Less air pressure restricts the tire to carry a lighter load. For your
safety, always adhere to the Federal Tire Label for proper inflation numbers.
When to Check Air Pressure
You should check your air pressure once a week when stationary and every day
while traveling. If your vehicle is stored for any length of time, air pressure should be
checked prior to storage. More importantly, check the pressure when the coach is
removed from storage.
Check your tires when they are cool. The stated cold inflation pressure
is based on an
ambient temperature of 68°F.
Using a tire gauge. Country Coach recommends that you purchase a
quality truck-style air pressure gauge. Some newer motorcoach wheels are
designed such
that a normal truck tire gauge needs to have a bend in it to
reach the valve stem on the inside of the outer dual.
What if you don't check your air pressure? If you pick up a nail or screw
while driving that creates a slow leak and causes some air pressure loss,
you might eventually spot it if it's in a front tire or an outer dual. However,
if it is an inner dual, the chances of spotting it without an air pressure
check are very slim. If you begin driving without finding it, your outer tire is
going
to heat up from carrying double its load very quickly (in most cases,
within a few miles) resulting in eventual tire failure. As you "pretrip" check
your vehicle every "drive morning," include an air pressure check of your
tires. Your safety is worth the extra few minutes!
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Tire Inspection
Your motorcoach tires should be inspected thoroughly at least once a year and
any time you drive
in rough or rocky terrain, or have your coach serviced. This
inspection should include the outer and inner sidewalls, tread
area, valve stems, and
caps. Inspect for
nails, cuts, bulges, fatigue cracks, weathering, and ozone cracking.
Also, check the duals for objects lodged between them. See a tire dealer at once if
there is anything found to be in question. Your tires should be thoroughly inspected
by a tire expert at least once per
year.
! CAUTION
Wheel lug nuts must be retightened to proper torque specifications (consult
your chassis owner's manual) at 50 miles and then at 500 miles of new
vehicle operation (or after a wheel change) and at the intervals specified in
the maintenance schedule. Failure to retighten wheel lug nuts as required
could allow wheels to come off while the vehicle is in motion, causing loss
of control and possible collision.
Changing a Flat Tire
Even the best drivers can drive over a nail and the best tires can pick up that nail
or screw and go flat. Whenever this occurs, do not attempt to jack up the unit and
change it yourself. The motorcoach wheels and tires
are extremely heavy and lug
nut torque requirements make it advisable to summon professional help. We suggest
calling Coach Net or your auto club for assistance.
! WARNING
Your coach is not equipped with a spare tire or a jacking device.
Tire Repair
If you pick up an object that causes a flat with your coach tire, the repair must be
made to the inside of the tire. To do this, the tire needs to be dismounted and
inspected
on the inside of the casing for any other damage that the object may
have caused.
In all cases, a service professional should remove a tire from the wheel
to inspect for internal damage.
Life Span of an RV Tire Department
of
Transportation Tire size
code
Manufacturer
and plant code
Figure 1.6
Inspire 360
Before Leaving
Date of
manufacture
(3rd week
of 2007)
Optional
manuafacturer
symbols
Miles alone do not measure the life of a tire used
on an RV. Your motorcoach tire life depends on
driving habits, driving conditions, geography and
the age of your tires. You can determine the age of
the tire by looking at the
DOT number (Figure 1.6)
molded on the side wall of the tire. The last two
digits
on the right are the last two digits of the year
in which it was manufactured.
DOT number on tire sidewall
House 1.17