Explorer Group Autostratus User guide

Owners Handbook
2003 Motorhomes

All the illustrations and descriptive matter in
this handbook are intended to give a general
idea of the Motorhome. Changing market and
supply situations may prevent us from
maintaining the exact specification details in
this handbook and we therefore reserve the
right to alter specifications as materials and
conditions demand.
Please check current details with your dealer
and inspect the motorhome to ensure it is
satisfactory before purchase. Dealers are not
agents and have absolutely no authority to
bind Explorer Group Limited by any express or
implied undertaking or representation.
Model ________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________
Model Year________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________
Motorhome Serial No. __________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________
Chassis No. _____________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________
Key No. ______________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________
Overall Length ________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________
Overall Width ___________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________
Overall Height__________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________
M.I.R.O. _____________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________
User Payload __________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________
M.T.P.L.M. _________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________
Tyre Size ___________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________
Tyre Pressures:
Front __________________ Rear __________________
2003

Explorer Group on the Net -
www.explorer-group.co.uk
Whilst we make every effort to include all the
necessary information required within our
owners’ handbook, from time to time the
information may change or be updated. If you
have any queries that are not covered the
following options are available:
1. Visit the Explorer Group on-line at
www.explorer-group.co.uk you will find
that the site has a comprehensive guide to
all of the models we produce as well as
other useful information that is regularly
updated.
2. E-mail your queries to enquires@explorer-
group.co.uk and we will endeavour to
respond with the answers you require as
soon as possible.
3. Alternatively, if the information you require
is not available on our web site, or you do
not have access to the internet, please call
our Customer Services Department on
01207 699000. Our knowledgeable and
friendly staff will be happy to help you.

Introduction 1
Water Ingress 2
Motorhome Code 3
On Site 3
On the Road 3
Safety Recommendations 4
Preparing for the Road 5
Weights explained 5
Loading & Distribution of Weight 5
Roof Racks and Loading 5
Before Moving Off 6
On the Road 7
Pulling Off 7
Motorhome Handling 7
Motorway Driving 7
Changing a Wheel 7
Bicycle Racks 7
Safety & Security 8
Arrival at Site 9
Selecting a Pitch 9
Levelling 9
Connection of Services 10
Water System 10
Gas System 11
Bottles 11
Regulator 12
Types of Gas 12
Precautions 12
Electricity 14
Hook-up Lead 15
Overseas Connections 15
Mains Unit 16
Control Panels 18
Motorhome Equipment 23
Truma Ultrastore Water Heater 23
Gas Operating Instructions 24
Electrical Operating Instructions 25
Taps 26
Water Filter System 30
Refrigerators 31
Oven, Hob & Grill 31
Smoke Alarm 31
Space Heater 32
Toilet 32
Air Conditioning 33
Alarm System 35
Blinds and Flyscreens 35
TV & FM Radio Aerial 36
Doors 37
Care of your Motorhome 38
Cleaning 38
Water Systems 39
Warrenty 42
Spares & Servicing 43
Technical Specification 47
Equipment List 47
CONTENTS

You are now the owner of a quality Motorhome.
The Owners Handbook has been prepared for
your guidance to help you derive the greatest
amount of pleasure from the use of your
Motorhome. It is recommend that you read the
pages of this Handbook thoroughly so that you
are fully conversant with all the Motorhome
systems. If there is anything you wish to know
which this Handbook fails to cover we are sure
that your Authorised Dealer will be pleased to
help.
NOTE:
All coach built motor caravans are classified as
Grade 2 which meet with the thermal insulation
and heat levels for specific climatic conditions.
IMPORTANT:
The serial number of your motorhome should
be quoted in all correspondence, it can be
found stamped on a plate fixed beneath the
motorhome door.
There is also a serial no. on the chassis cab or
pillar, which should also be quoted.
Your motorhome serial number can also be
found on the NCC certificate which can be
found within your user pack.
Your Authorised Dealer will be able to supply
any replacement parts for your Motorhome,
should the need arise, along with any
accessories you may require. Please note that
it is not possible to purchase replacement
parts or accessories direct from the
manufacturer.
We are sure you will have many happy times
with your Motorhome but please remember a
happy carefree time is based on proper,
thorough and responsible preparation, careful
driving with regard to ‘The Rules of the Road’,
other road users and above all ensuring your
Motorhome is in a first class roadworthy
condition. It is recommended that your
Motorhome is serviced by an Authorised
Dealer once every twelve months.
FIRE RETARDANT FOAMS
Under the Condition of the Consumer
Protection Act 1987, manufacturers have a
responsibility to ensure that their product is as
safe as possible.
With this in mind all Motorhomes are equipped
with Combustion Modified High Resilient
(C.M.H.R.) foam cushions or sprung
mattresses. These foams are very much safer
from a fire point of view than those previously
used. In addition all upholstery is made of fire
retardant fabric.
1
INTRODUCTION
WELCOME TO THE WORLD OF MOTORHOMES

WATER INGRESS
CODE OF PRACTICE
CONSUMER GUARANTEE
We at The Explorer Group Ltd. want our
customers to be sure that in buying one of our
products, you are buying the very best. We
would like you to continue to believe this for a
long time after you have made your purchase.
We are confident that our new products, built
with innovative manufacturing techniques and
tested materials, make water ingress concerns
unnecessary.
In fact, we are so confident of our new
products that we have issued a ‘Code of
Practice’ which gives certain guarantees to our
customers, both consumers and dealers, of
financial reimbursement of repair costs should
problems occur.
THE CODE
The code applies to all new Explorer Group
products manufactured after 1st September
1998.
All customers with documentary proof of
annual services by an approved Explorer
Group Ltd. dealer or service centre, will be
paid in full for the costs of repairs due to water
ingress for up to 5 years from the date of
purchase of a new product.
Customers without a full service history may
receive up to 100% of the costs of repair for
water ingress damage in year 2 of ownership,
up to 75% in year 3, up to 50% in year 4 and up
to 25% in year 5. Each case will be examined
on its merit. The Explorer Group Ltd. will
decide the amount of contribution towards the
repair costs.
Customers who bought new motorhomes
between September 1996 and August 1998
will also be covered under this code providing
they have documentary proof of annual
services by approved Explorer Group Ltd.
dealers or service centres.
Customers exchanging their current Explorer
Group model for a new Explorer Group model
will not have the value of their part exchange
reduced due to potential water ingress issues,
provided there is documentary evidence that
the motorhome has been annually serviced
and that it is less than 5 years old.
CONDITIONS ATTACHED TO THE
CODE
• Repairs may only be carried out after
approval by The Explorer Group Ltd. or the
insurance company that provides the
extended warranty (dependent upon
individual circumstances).
• The Explorer Group Ltd. or the company
that provides the extended warranty will pay
the costs of repairs, only after approved
work has been carried out.
• The Code is not retrospective. Motorhomes
traded in prior to implementation of the
Code are not covered.
• In the case of dispute, The Caravan Club
will agree with The Explorer Group Ltd., the
appointment of an independent arbitrator.
The Explorer Group Ltd, will pay for the
costs of arbitration subject to the consumer
paying a £100 deposit.
• If the arbitrator finds in favour of the
consumer, then the deposit will be returned.
If the arbitrator finds in favour of The
Explorer Group Ltd., the consumer will lose
the deposit.
• Where the arbitrator awards a sum of
money less than an offer made by The
Explorer Group Ltd., which has already
been rejected by the consumer, then the
deposit is forfeited.
• The arbitrator’s decision is final and both
parties must agree to abide by the decision.
Note: The Explorer Group Ltd. warranties may
be transferred to a second owner for a small
fee.
2
INTRODUCTION

The purpose of introducing a Code of Conduct
for Motor Caravanners is to be seen to be
doing all we can as an industry to ensure that
motor caravans are looked on sympathetically
by legislators and other opinion formers.
The main elements should cover such things
as responsible camping, safe and considerate
driving, parking, and other areas where a
motor caravanner could cause abuse or
nuisance if he or she is not careful.
Here is a brief outline of the main points:
ON SITE
• Keep to roadways unless otherwise
directed.
• Adhere to speed limits. Note that these are
generally 10mph. (Remember that the
stopping distance on grass in considerably
greater than on Tarmac.)
• Ensure that all fresh water
taps/connections are turned off after use.
• Have care and consideration when using
all facilities (toilets and showers etc) and
leave clean and tidy. Young children
should be escorted.
• If the vehicle is not fitted with a waste water
tank a suitable receptacle should be put
below all waste water pipes. Do not let
these containers overflow,
• Dispose of all waste water where
instructed.
• Empty effluent from chemical toilets where
instructed.
• Put all litter in containers marked for the
purpose.
• Do not make excessive noise.
• Petrol generators, unless silenced, should
be used with consideration.
• All dogs and other pets should be kept
under control.
• Adhere and take note of all fire precautions
noting the whereabouts of the fire points.
• Unless permission has been granted
barbecues should not be used. When
permission has been given consideration
should be given to the annoyance that can
be caused to other users of the site.
Similarly, open fires are not allowed.
• Awnings and tents should only be used
when permission has been obtained.
• Leave the pitch clean and tidy.
• On leaving, check out with the reception
paying the required dues.
• Camping away from licensed sites, without
the land owners or his agents permission,
is not allowed in the United Kingdom.
ON THE ROAD
• Motor caravans should only be parked in
approved places.
• When using a motor caravan on either the
public highway or private roads the
Highway Code should be complied with
and full consideration given to other road
users.
• In the event of a motor caravan travelling
slowly and there being a queue of traffic
behind, the driver of the motor caravan
should, where possible, pull over in order
to let the other traffic pass.
• Before using a motor caravan all aspects
of the handbooks produced by the chassis
manufacturer and the converter must be
read and adhered to.
• Care and consideration should be taken to
protect the environment.
• Observe the Country and Coastal Codes.
• When ignition is on all 12V ceases except
fridge.
A full copy of the Motor Caravanners’ Code
can be obtained from the SMMT (Society of
Motor Manufacturers and Traders).
3
MOTORHOME CODE

GENERAL SAFETY
In order for you to get the most out of your new
Explorer Group caravan it is necessary for you
to be aware of the following.
1. Do not obstruct ventilators.
2. Inspect the flexible gas hose regularly for
deterioration and renew as necessary, with
approved type, and in any case no later
than the expiry date stated on the hose.
3. It is recommended that you provide a dry
powder fire extinguisher complying with
ISO 7165 of at least 1 KG capacity by the
exit door and a fire blanket next to the
cooker. Ensure you read the 'advice to
occupier label' fitted to your caravan.
4. Never use portable cooking or heating
equipment inside your caravan. Do not use
your fitted cooking equipment as heating
at any time.
5. Never allow modification to your gas or
electrical system unless qualified persons
carry them out. All modification to the gas
system should be carried out by a CORGI
registered gas fitter. Any modifications
carried out on the electrical system should
be carried out by an electrician on the roll
of the NICEIC or be a member of the ECA.
6. Never exceed your caravans Maximum
Technical Permissible Laden Mass.
7. Never exceed the caravan or your cars
maximum nose weight whichever is the
lower.
8. Care shall be taken against the risk of
falling out when children, especially under
3 years of age, use the upper bunk.
9. Ensure heavy and large items are secured
before towing your new caravan to reduce
the risk of damage being caused while the
caravan is in motion.
10. Turn off all gas appliances and turn off the
gas supply before towing your caravan.
11. Do not leave children under 14 years of
age unattended in your caravan.
12. When your caravan is connected to your
towing vehicle it should be level or slightly
nose down. An excessive nose down
attitude or a nose up attitude could lead to
instability when towing.
VENTILATION
All caravans manufactured by the Explorer
Group Limited are ventilated at both high and
low level in accordance with BSEN 721 Safety
Ventilation. The fixed ventilation points fitted in
your caravan must not be blocked under any
circumstances as your safety may depend
upon them.
It is advisable that the fixed ventilation points
are checked and cleaned (where necessary)
on a regular basis.
HIGH-LEVEL VENTILATION
This is always provided by fixed ventilation
within the fitted roof skylight. All roof skylights
fitted by Explorer Group provide fixed free area
ventilation. These roof skylights should be
cleaned annually by use of a small brush to
remove any dust that may have accumulated
around the mesh fitted. On some roof skylights
the mesh can be easily removed to aid
cleaning. On fan-assisted roof skylights it is
essential that the roof skylight be switched off
prior to cleaning.
LOW-LEVEL VENTILATION
Low level ventilation is provided under the front
chest of drawers, except in an L-shape layout,
where it can be found either in the nearside or
offside bed box. The exact position can be
identified via the white plastic cover used to
prevent the ventilation from being obstructed.
In order to clean the ventilator, remove the
cover by undoing the two screws and clean
using a small brush. It is essential that the
cover is replaced once cleaning is complete.
SEPARATE BEDROOMS
In caravans with sleeping areas separated via
a solid door, separate ventilation is required
and is provided via a roof skylight at high level
and a ventilator at low level within a bed box.
4
SAFETY RECOMMENDATIONS

THERMAL INSULATION AND
HEATING CLASSIFICATION
All caravans manufactured by the Explorer
Group Limited are classified as Grade 2, in
accordance with BSEN 1645 part 1, for thermal
Insulation and heating. This will allow the
Interior temperature to be maintained at 20 °C
when the exterior ambient temperature is 0 °C.
YOUR MOTORHOME
(WEIGHTS EXPLAINED)
Mass in Running Order
The weight of your motorhome as it leaves the
factory, as new with standard fixtures and
fittings, plus an allowance for driver and 90%
fuel.
Maximum Technically Permissible Laden
Mass
The maximum weight of the vehicle when fully
laden for use on the road.
User Payload
The load margin (payload), this represents the
difference between the Mass in Running Order
and the Maximum Technically Permissible
Laden Mass. It shows the maximum weight
which can be loaded into your motorhome,
covering items such as food, crockery, cutlery,
clothing, bedding, gas cylinders, etc.
LOADING AND DISTRIBUTION OF
WEIGHT IN THE MOTORHOME
LOADING
It should be noted that even weight distribution
is a major factor in making your motorhome an
easy and pleasant vehicle to drive. Care
should therefore be taken in balancing the
load, ensuring that heavy items are well
spaced and are in as low a position as
possible, for example, low cupboards and bed
boxes.
Do not exceed recommended maximum
loading for your motorhome.
ROOF RACKS
Some models of Motorhomes are fitted with a
roof rack and ladder as standard.
Care is needed when using this facility. It is
recommend you exercise extreme caution
when loading and unloading.
DO NOT ALLOW CHILDREN TO CLIMB ONTO
THE ROOF. DO NOT EXCEED THE STATED
MAXIMUM LOAD. ITEMS FITTED OTHER
THAN STANDARD EQUIPMENT WILL
DEPLETE THE PAYLOAD STATED IN THIS
HANDBOOK.
ROOF LOADING
All Motorhomes have a specially designed roof
rack system fitted or available as an optional
extra. The roof of each motorhome is
strengthened to accommodate the roof rack,
however, the strengthened area only relates to
that contained within the roof rack area, and to
step beyond this area may cause damage to
the roof. The roof rack is capable of
withstanding the average persons weight e.g.
12 stone/76 kgs.
Static roof loading or top box loading should
be limited to a maximum of 75 kgs, or the limit
set by the top box manufacturer, which ever is
the lower figure.
5
PREPARING FOR THE ROAD

UNDER NO CIRCUMSTANCES WALK ON
THE OVER CAB SECTION.
Calypso Roof Loading
On the Calypso model the roof loading area
extends only to the roof light, to step beyond
the roof light line may damage the roof and
cause personal injury.
Roof loads should be evenly distributed and
securely fastened, but care must be taken not
to over-tighten straps or ropes to the point
where roof rails or brackets may become
distorted, particularly as during braking and
cornering, forces exerted by straps or ropes
are greatly increased. It is also worth noting
that when carrying heavy or large objects on
the roof, the vehicles handling may change
due to the resultant displacement of the centre
of gravity and the increased area exposed to
the wind.
BEFORE MOVING OFF
Whenever making a journey with your
motorhome, either setting off on holiday or
returning home, it is good practice to run
through this simple checklist.
1. Close and secure all cupboards and
drawers and check any loose articles. Do
not store tins, bottles, etc. in overhead
lockers.
2. Close and secure all windows and roof
lights.
3. Leave all curtains and blinds open to aid
rear visibility.
4. Check that gas cylinders are securely
fastened and turn off all gas appliances,
also ensure that the gas locker door is
securely fastened.
5. Switch off 240 volt supply at source,
disconnect mains cable and store in an
appropriate place.
6. Check that the battery is secure and that
the battery box lid is fastened.
7. Ensure the fridge is on 12V operation and
door lock is set. (Note: the electrical relays
will allow the fridge to be run on the vehicle
battery when the engine is running.)
8. Remove any external fresh water
connections etc.
9. Make sure any heavy articles are stored in
accordance with the loading procedure.
Tables should also be made secure.
10. Lock the motorhome exterior door
(remember to take out your keys).
11. Check your external rear view mirrors and
adjust if necessary.
12. Check that all corner steadies are wound
up and that, if a step is used, it is put away
before moving off.
6
PREPARING FOR THE ROAD

PULLING OFF
Engage the clutch smoothly.
Avoid wear and tear on clutch and
transmission by taking extra care.
Change gears smoothly.
Try not to jerk the clutch.
MOTORHOME HANDLING
Do not bump kerb with wheels.
When passing other vehicles allow more than
the normal clearance.
Allow longer to get up speed to pass. Do not
suddenly swing out.
Carry out all manoeuvres as smoothly as
possible.
Use nearside wing mirror to check motorhome
has cleared when overtaking.
MOTORWAY DRIVING
Speed Limits (UK)
Where a speed limit is not in force, your
motorhome can be driven up to 70mph on
motorways and dual carriageways.
1. Reducing Speed:
i) In high or cross winds.
ii) Downhill.
iii) In poor visibility.
2. High sided vehicles cause air buffeting so
extra care must be taken when passing or
being passed. As much space as possible
should be given.
CHANGING A WHEEL
1. Ensure handbrake is applied and chock
the wheel diagonally opposite the wheel to
be removed.
2. Remove the hub cap.
3. Use wheel brace to slacken off wheel nuts
on the wheel to be changed.
4. Position jack at the appropriate jacking
point (see vehicle handbook).
5. Jack up the motorhome until the wheel for
removal is just off the ground.
6. Remove the wheel nuts and remove the
wheel.
7. Fit spare wheel and reverse the above
procedure.
8. Tighten wheel nuts in the order and in
accordance with the vehicle handbook
instructions.
BICYCLE RACKS
Following the recent trend toward the fitting of
bicycle racks to the rear panel of motorhomes
we should like to point out the weight
distribution problems associated with such
fitments.
We would advise you to carry a maximum of 75
kgs on the bicycle rack provided this does not
exceed the bicycle racks own weight limit. The
motorhome must also be balanced to take into
account the new weight distribution. Weight
must be distributed evenly.
WARNING:
Ensure the wheel is of the same
construction and size as the one that
has been removed.
7
ON THE ROAD

SECURITY
FORD ALARMS/DEAD LOCKS BEWARE:
MINDER
Your motorhome is fitted with MINDER, the
security scheme operated by HPI Limited.
During manufacture, an electronic tag is
concealed in the motorhome body carrying a
unique Motorhome Identification Number. This
number links to the vehicle identification
number so there is a double record matching
chassis to motorhome body.
The MIN number is also recorded at other
parts of the vehicle as a further deterrent.
All police forces in the UK can obtain
equipment which can read MINDER electronic
tags, aiding identification in the event of theft
and subsequent recovery.
All MIN numbers are recorded on the HPI
MINDER Enquiry Database for the police,
dealers and potential buyers to check the
correct ownership details.
SERIAL NUMBER
Record your motorhome serial number (which
can be found stamped on a plate fixed beneath
the motorhome door or pillar), and your cab
chassis serial no. (which can be found on a
plate under the bonnet). Make a note of this
number in the space provided at the front of
this handbook and make a separate note of
the number to keep safe at home.
MOTORHOME THEFT
The theft of a motorhome can occur in the
most unlikely circumstances; from a motorway
service area, even from an owner’s driveway.
Secure all windows and doors when your
motorhome is unoccupied even if only for a
short length of time.
ADDITIONAL SECURITY
Consider fitting any device which might deter
or prevent intrusion by thieves. A wheel lock
prevents removal of the wheel. Window
etching of the chassis number is a cost
effective deterrent.
FREE CRIME PREVENTION
Advice about securing your motorhome,
protecting your valuables, property marking,
either at home or whilst on site, can be
obtained from the Crime Prevention Officer
through your local Police Station.
BEWARE:
When leaving your motorhome with the
double locking/alarm activated, and the
rear body alarm activated. On your return if
you enter the rear main conversion door
and deactivate the body alarm the cab
dead locks and alarm remain active. No
alarm will sound from the cab until you
place the key in the ignition and turn.
Once this happens the only way to stop the
alarm is to open the window, insert the key
into the lock from the outside and open the
lock. Make sure that the dead locks are
deactivated when occupying the main
body. Read page 29 in your Ford Transit
handbook that explains this.
8
SAFETY & SECURITY

CHECK SITE REGULATIONS
SITING YOUR MOTORHOME
When siting your motorhome please keep to
the roadways unless otherwise directed. Obey
the speed limit; it should be noted that the
speed limit is generally 10 mph. Only a person
in possession of a current driving licence may
drive on the site. It is also worth remembering
that stopping distances on grass are
considerably greater than on tarmac.
SELECTING A PITCH
Carefully select where you wish to place your
motorhome. The site should be as level as
possible, preferable not under or near trees,
well drained and away from possible boggy
areas. Consider how you will move the
motorhome when it is time to leave the site. On
sloping ground it is better to pitch facing
downhill, especially during the rainy season,
LEVELLING
It is important that the motorhome is correctly
levelled to ensure the correct working of the
refrigerator, cooker, etc. Use ramps or levelling
devices to raise the lower wheels.
Wind down the rear corner steadies (if fitted)
onto load spreaders (blocks of wood a
minimum of 6 inches (15.25cm) square) taking
care not to lift the motorhome.
NOTE: Corner steadies are NOT wheel
jacks.
9
ARRIVAL AT SITE

WATER
Comet Elegance submersible water pump is
supplied with each motorhome. Connection to
the motorhome is made utilising either a
Carver Compact or a Carver Crystal 3 water
system. To determine which model you have,
please refer to the equipment chart contained
in your Owner’s Information Pack.
Ensure all taps are in the off position and the
12v water pump switch, located on the
electrical control panel, is off.
USING A WATER CONTAINER
(not supplied)
For either water system, fill fresh water
container and place in a suitable position.
Place waste water container under main drain
valve.
Place the submersible pump into the fresh
water container, ensuring it is fully submerged
before operating the system (see figure 3).
USING THE CARVER WATERLINE
(direct connection to mains supply unit)
This item is not supplied with every model.
Connect the Carver Waterline hose to the
mains unit on the pitch. (The end without the
valve connects to the mains unit).
CARVER CRYSTAL 3 WATER SYSTEM
OPERATION
Raise the crystal filter housing lid (see fig. 1).
Clean both the water socket and the power
supply terminals for the pump. It is advisable to
lubricate the water inlet using vegetable oil
(this reduces the friction between the ‘0’ ring
and the plastic surface).
Plug the pump assembly into the housing
ensuring that it is pushed fully home (see
fig. 2).
To remove the pump from the crystal housing,
press the two clips in at either side of the pump
plug and pull.
Do not remove by pulling the electric cable
or the hose.
CHANGING THE FILTER CARTRIDGE
When inserting a new filter cartridge into the
housing, smear vegetable oil on the two ‘0’
rings. (This reduces friction and makes it easier
to remove).
It is recommended that the filter cartridge is
replaced after 30 days of use.
To remove the filter cartridge pull the tab on the
bottom of the filter, which will release the filter
from the housing (see fig. 4).
10
CONNECTING SERVICES - WATER
Fig. 1 Fig. 2 Fig. 3

Always ensure that the new filter cartridge is
pushed fully home into the housing.
CARVER COMPACT
Connect the fresh water hose directly to the
Carver Compact inlet.
Finally put the “pump” switch on the control
panel to “on” and turn the cold tap on until
water flows.
Prior to operation of the water heater, ensure
water is flowing from hot tap.
GAS
Your motorhome is designed to operate using
either propane or butane liquefied petroleum
gas at 30m/bar. Gas can be obtained from your
motorhome dealer.
Your motorhome is designed to accept a
maximum 2 x 7.5kg gas bottles.
TYPES OF GAS
BUTANE
Butane is supplied in the U.K. in Green or Blue
bottles. All these have a male left hand thread
except for Camping Gaz, which has a special
female right hand, Calor, 7.5 kg and 15 kg
bottles have a special clip-on connection.
Continental bottles usually have a male left
hand thread similar, but not identical, to U.K.
butane.
Butane is suitable for use at temperatures
down to 2°C but will not work below that.
PROPANE
Propane is supplied in red, or partly red bottles
which have a female left hand threaded
connector.
Scandinavian countries use the same
connector.
Germany or Austria supply propane with a
male connection.
Propane will work at temperatures as low as -
40°C and is therefore suitable for all winter
caravanning.
CONNECTION
Make sure that heating, cooking appliances
and gas cylinders are switched off.
Ensure the correct regulator for the gas
chosen has been connected to the gas bottle.
The regulator is a governing device which
adapts the bottle pressure to one that suits the
equipment in the motorhome.
It is recommended that the regulator valve
should be fitted with an over-pressure release
valve to 150m/bar.
Note: Regulator valves should always be in the
‘OFF’ position when towing.
HOSES
Low pressure flexible hoses with a maximum
length of 700mm should be fitted between the
pressure regulator and the rigid pipework.
11
CONNECTING SERVICES - GAS
Fig. 4

Hoses should be made from Neoprene, which
is black, and should conform to BS 3212.
Rubber hosing should never be used.
It is strongly recommended that a jubilee clip is
used to secure the hose to the rigid pipework
in order to prevent accidental removal.
GAS SAFETY ADVICE
Regularly check flexible gas hose, joints and
connections for tightness. Finally make sure
that each gas appliance is working efficiently to
the recommendations of the appliance
manufacturers.
FACTS ABOUT LPG
LPG is not poisonous. Bi-products are
harmless. LPG is dangerous if all air and
oxygen is excluded.
LPG has been given a smell by the
manufacturers in order to identify leaks.
The gas is heavier than air and therefore sinks
to the lowest point.
AWNING SPACES LPG APPLIANCE
EXHAUST
There is no danger of pollution of an enclosed
awning space from the LPG exhaust from a
refrigerator venting into it.
Space heaters may produce sufficient exhaust
to pollute the awning space, if it is totally
enclosed, from a general comfort, smell and
hygiene point of view. In extreme cases there
could be a build up of carbon dioxide to a
dangerous level.
Motorhome owners are advised to allow some
fresh air circulation in the awning space when
such appliances are in use.
PRECAUTIONS
a) Never look for a leak with a match. Always
use a soap solution or its equivalent when
testing connections. Do not operate any
electrical apparatus whatsoever, especially
light switches. If the leak is not obvious, the
motorhome should be evacuated and
qualified personnel consulted,
b) Avoid naked flames when connecting or
changing a cylinder.
c) Check the flexible hose frequently.
ROOF-MOUNTED FLUE
INSTALLATIONS
All flue installations should be inspected once
a year throughout their length for corrosion.
Flues should be replaced if any sign of
perforation is found. Ensure that the
replacement is of an approved type.
WARNING:
Aerosols and highly flammable liquids
must not be stored in the compartment
behind, or adjacent to, any gas
appliance.
Some industrial LPG appliances
operate at high pressure and require a
'high pressure' regulator. This often has
an adjusting handle on it. NEVER use
such a regulator on a motorhome.
(Ventilation holes must be clear at all
times).
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CONNECTING SERVICES - GAS

ELECTRICITY
MAINS SUPPLY
Your motorhome’s main electrical installation is
designed to run on a 230v 50hz a.c. supply.
ON ARRIVAL AT CARAVAN SITE
1. Before connecting the motorhome
installation to the mains supply, check that:
(a) the mains supply is suitable for your
installation and appliances, i.e.
whether it is a.c. or d.c. and whether it
is at the correct voltage and frequency.
(b) your installation will be properly
earthed. Never accept a supply from a
socket outlet or plug having only two
pins, or from a lighting outlet.
(c) any residual current device (earth
leakage circuit breaker) in the mains
supply to the motorhome has been
tested within the last month.
In case of doubt, consult the site owner or his
agent.
2. MAKE SURE THAT THE SWITCH AT THE
SITE SUPPLY POINT IS OFF AND THAT
ALL ELECTRICAL EQUIPMENT IN THE
MOTORHOME IS SWITCHED OFF.
3. Remove any cover from the electricity inlet
provided on the motorhome, and insert the
connector of the supply flexible cable
obtained from the site owner.
4. Remove any cover from the socket outlet
provided at the site supply point, and
connect the plug at the other end of the
supply flexible cable to this. Switch on the
main switch at the site supply point.
Note: If you wish to use any 12v
appliances, you must turn on the battery
charging unit on the control panel.
ON LEAVING CARAVAN SITE
5. Reverse the procedure described in
Paragraph 3 and 4 above.
PERIODICALLY
6. Preferably not less than once a year, the
motorhome electrical installation should
be inspected and tested and a report on its
IT IS IMPORTANT THAT THE MAIN
SWITCH AT THE SITE SUPPLY POINT
SHOULD BE SWITCHED OFF, THE
SUPPLY FLEXIBLE CABLE
DISCONNECTED, AND ANY COVER
REPLACED ON THE SOCKET OUTLET
AT THE SITE SUPPLY POINT. IT IS
DANGEROUS TO LEAVE THE SUPPLY
SOCKET OR SUPPLY FLEXIBLE CABLE
LIVE.
IN CASE OF DIFFICULTY CONSULT
AN APPROVED ELECTRICAL
INSTALLATION CONTRACTOR (WHO
MAY BE THE LOCAL ELECTRICITY
BOARD). IT IS DANGEROUS TO
ATTEMPT MODIFICATIONS AND
ADDITIONS YOURSELF.
LAMPHOLDER-PLUGS (BAYONET- CAP
ADAPTORS) SHOULD NOT IN ANY
CIRCUMSTANCES BE USED.
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CONNECTING SERVICES - ELECTRICITY

condition obtained as prescribed in the
Regulations for Electrical Installations,
published by the Institute of Electrical
Engineers.
Note: Connection to a mains voltage supply
OVERSEAS requires particular attention.
Care must be taken when connecting supplies
abroad since the supplies can be of REVERSE
POLARITY.
The significance of REVERSE POLARITY is
that when equipment is switched off it may not
be electrically isolated.
The only certain way of making equipment safe
is to unplug it.
A means of checking the polarity of the mains
supply when overseas is useful.
There are available several proprietary makes
of equipment for the purpose.
If it can be achieved, it is preferable to connect
live to live, and neutral to neutral to maintain
full electrical protection.
CHECK all motorhome equipment is set-up to
accept the site supply before actually
switching on.
15
CONNECTING SERVICES - ELECTRICITY
WIRING OF CONNECTING CABLE AND MOTORHOME MAINS INLET