Fleetwood 1990 Southwind User manual

SDUTHWIND
BY Fl.EETWaJO®
1990
\

FULL ONE-YEAR/15,OOO MILE
...-----WARRANTy------
FOR MOTOR HOMES MANUFACTURED BY SUBSIDIARIES OF flEETWOOD ENTERPRISES, INC.
SOLD IN THE UNITED STATES
AND CANADA
COVERAGE PROVIDED
Your new motor home, including the structure, plumbing, heating and electrical systems, and all appliances and equipment Installed by the
manufacturer, is warranted under normal use
to be free from manufacturing defects in material or workmanship.
The warrantY extends
to the first retail purchaser and his transfereelal and begins on the date of original retail delivery or the date the motor
home is first placed into service
as a rental, commercial or demonstrator unit (whichever occurs first). The warranty extends for a period of
one year from such date or until the unithas received 1 5,000 total miles of use as datermined by the mileage shown on the odometer (whichever
occurs firstl, Written notice
of defects must be given to the selling dealer or the manufacturer not later than ten (10) days after the expiration
of the applicable warranty period.
OWNER'S OBLIGATIONS
The owner is responsible for normal maintenance as described in the Owner's Manual; however, minor adjustments (such as adjustments
to the interior of exterior doors, LP regulator pressure, cabinet latches, TV antenna control, etc.) will be performed by the dealer during the
first 90 days of warranty coverage. Thereafter, such adjustments are the responsibility of the owner as normal meintenance unless required
as a direct result of repair or replacement of a defective part under this warrenty.
If a problem occurs which the owner believes is covered by this warranty, the owner shall contact the SELLING DEALER, or other authorized
dealer, giving him sufficient information
to resolve the matter. The owner shall deliver the motor home to the DEALER or manufacturing plant
location for warranty service.
DEALER'S OBLIGATIONS
By agreement with the manufacturer, the dealer is obligated to maintain the motor home prior to retail sale, to perform a detailed predelivery
inspection and to repair or replace any parts necessary to correct defects in material or workmanship.
WHEN
THE DEALER DOES NOT RESOLVE THE PROBLEM
If the dealer is unable orunwilling to resolve a problem which the owner is convinced is covered bythe warranty, he should contactthe MANUFAC-
TURING PLANT at the address listed below and provide the manufacturer with a description in writing of the problem and attempts made
to resolve it.
MANUFACTURING PLANT OBLIGATIONS
Upon receipt of notice of a claim, where the dealer was unable or unwilling to resolve the problem, the manufacturing plant will repair or replece
any perts necessary
to correct defects in material or workmanship, or will take other appropriate action as may be required.
WHEN
THE MANUFACTURING PLANT DOES NOT RESOLVE THE PROBLEM
If the represantatives of the manufacturing plant are unable to resolve the problem and the owneris convinced that it is covered by the warranty,
the
owner should call the toll-free number listed below to describe the problem and the attempts made to resolve it.
WHAT IS NOT COVERED BY THE EXPRESS WARRANTY
THIS WARRANTY
DOES NOT COVER:
1. THE AUTOMOTIVE SYSTEM (INCLUDING THE CHASSIS AND DRIVE TRAIN), TIRES AND BATTERIES, WHICH ARE COVERED BY
THE SEPARATE WARRANTIES OF THE RESPECTIVE MANUFACTURERS OF THESE COMPONENTS.
2. DEfECTS CAUSED BY OR RELATED TO:
A. ABUSE, MISUSE, NEGLIGENCE OR ACCIDENT;
B. FAILURE TO COMPLY WITH INSTRUCTIONS CONTAINED IN THE OWNER'S MANUAL'
C. ALTERATION OR MODIFICATION OF THE MOTOR HOME;
3. NORMAL DETERIORATION DUE TO WEAR OR EXPOSURE, SUCH AS FADING OF FABRICS OR DRAPES, CARPET WEAR, ETC.
4. NORMAL MAINTENANCE AND SERVICE ITEMS, SUCH AS LIGHT BULBS, FUSES, WIPER BLADES, LUBRICANTS, ETC.
5. MOTOR HOMES ON WHICH THE ODOMETER READING HAS BEEN ALTERED.
6. TRANSPORTATION TO AND FROM
DEALER OR MANUFACTURING PLANT LOCATION, LOSS OF TIME, INCONVENIENCE, COM-
MERCIAL LOSS, LOSS
OF USE, TOWING CHARGES, BUS FARES, CAR RENTAL, lNCtDENTAL CHARGES SUCH AS TELEPHONE
CALLS OR HOTEL BILLS, OR OTHER INCIDENTAL OR CONSEQUENTIAL DAMAGES.
SOME STATES
DO NOT ALLOW THE EXCLUSION OR LIMITATION OF INCIDENTAL OR CONSEQUENTIAL DAMAGES, SO THE
ABOVE LIMITATION OR EXCLUSION MAY NOT APPLY TO YOU.
THIS WARRANTY GIVES YOU SPECIFIC LEGAL RIGHTS, AND YOU
MAY ALSO HAVE OTHER RIGHTS WHICH VARY FROM STATE TO STATE.
THE MANUFACTURER IS NOT RESPONSIBLE FOR ANY UNDERTAKING, REPRESENTATION, OR WARRANTY MADE BY ANY DEALER OR OTHER
PERSON BEYOND THOSE EXPRESSLY SET FORTH IN THIS WARRANTY.
Brand Name'_----'S::.O=U-'-T'-'H"W-"''''N'''O'--- ________ Mode' ________ Seria' No. _______ _
MANUFACTURING PLANT: CORPORATE HEADQUARTERS:
Con&l,Imer Affairs Department
Fleetwood Enterprises, Inc.
P.O. Box 7300
Riverside, California 92523
From Calif.: [phone]
From Outside of Calif.: [phone]
printed in USA

SAFETY REGULATIONS REGARDING LP GAS SYSTEMS AND LP GAS APPLIANCES
The manufacturer of this recreational vehicle is required to furnish the following consumer information as provided t?V the National Fire Prevention
Association and the American National Standards Institute. Th_e information and warnings found here may also be found in other sections
of this Owner's Manual. Please see sections titled "Liquid Petroleum Gas System" and "Appliances" for other safety and operating information.
WARNING: LP GAS CONTAINERS SHALL NOT BE PLACED OR STORED INSIDE THE VEHICLE. LP GAS CONTAINERS ARE EQUIPPED WITH SAFETY DEVICES
WHICH RELIEVE EXCESSIVE PRESSURE BY DISCHARGING GAS TO THE ATMOSPHERE.
WARNING: IT IS NOT SAFE TO USE COOKING APPLIANCES FOR COMFORT HEATING. COOKING APPLIANCES NEED FRESH AIR FOR SAFE OPERATION. BEFORE
OPERATION:
1. OPEN OVERHEAD VENT OR TURN ON EXHAUST FAN, AND
2. OPEN WINDOW.
THIS WARNING LABEL HAS BEEN LOCATED IN THE COOKING AREA TO REMIND YOU TO PROVIDE AN ADEQUATE SUPPLY OF FRESH AIR FOR COMBUSTION.
UNLIKE HOMES, THE AMOUNT OF OXYGEN SUPPLY IS LIMITED DUE TO THE SIZE OF THE RECREATIONAL VEHICLE, AND PROPER VENTILATION WHEN USING
THE COOKING APPLIANCES lSI WILL AVOID DANGERS OF ASPHYXIATION. IT IS ESPECIALLY IMPORTANT THAT COOKING APPLIANCES NOT BE USED FOR
COMFORT HEATING AS THE DANGER OF ASPHYXIATION IS GREATER WHEN THE APPLIANCE IS USED FOR LONG PERIODS OF TIME.
WARNING: PORTABLE FUEL-BURNING EQUIPMENT. INCLUDING WOOD AND CHARcp4L GRILLS AND STOVES, SHALL NOT BE USED INSIDE THIS RECREATIONAL
VEHICLE. THE USE OF THIS EQUIPMENT INSIDE THE RECREATIONAL VEHICLE MAY CAUSE FIRES OR ASPHYXIATION.
WARNING: DO NOT BRING OR STORE LP GAS CONTAINERS, GASOLINE, OR OTHER FLAMMABLE LIQUIDS INSIDE THE V~filClE B~CAUSE A FIRE OR EXPLOSION
MAY RESULT.
A warning label has been located near the ·lP gas container. This label reads: DO NOT Fill CONTAINER!S) TO MORE THAN 80 PERCENT OF CAPACITY.
Overfilling the LP gas container can result in uncontrolled gas flow which can cause fire or explosion. A properly filled container will contain approximately 80
percent of its volume as liquid LP gas.
The following label has been placed in the vehicle near the range area:
IF YOU SMELL GAS:
1. Extinguish any open flames, pilot lights and all smoking materials.
2. Do not touch electrical switches.
3. Shut off the gas supply at the tank valve(s) or gas supply connection.
4. Open doors and other ventilating openings.
5. Leave the area until odor clears.
6. Have the gas system checked and leakage source corrected before using again.
LP gas regulators must always be installed with the diaphragm vent facing downward. Regulators that are not in compartments have been equipped with a protective
cover. Make sure that regulator vent faces downward and the cover is kept in place to minimize vent blockage which could result in excessive gas pressure
causing fire or explosion.
IMPORTANT NOTICE
Certain of our forest product suppliers have advised that urea-formaldehyde is used in the production of particle board, hardwood
plywood
or paneling which they supply us and which we utilize in our finished product. These suppliers have requested that
we communicate this to our customers.
For your information, we are reproducing samples of statements which have been provided to us by our suppliers.
WARNING: THIS PROOUCT
IS MANUFACTUREO WITH UREA-FORMALDEHYOE RESIN. FORMALDEHYDE VAPOR MAY IN SOME
PEOPLE CAUSE HEADACHES,
EYE, NOSE AND THROAT IRRITATION, AND AGGRAVATION OF ALLERGIES AND RESPIRATORY
PROBLEMS, SUCH
AS ASTHMA. PROPER VENTILATION SHOULD REDUCE THE RISK OF SUCH PROBLEMS
Champion International Corporation
WARNING: IRRITANT: THIS PRODUCT CONTAINS A UREA-FORMALDEHYDE RESIN AND MAY RELEASE FORMALDEHYDE
VAPORS IN LOW CONCENTRATIONS. FORMALDEHYDE CAN
BE IRRITATING TO THE EYES AND UPPER RESPIRATORY SYSTEM
OF ESPECIALLY SUSCEPTIBLE PERSONS SUCH
AS THOSE WITH ALLERGIES OR RESPIRATORY AILMENTS. USE WITH
ADEQUATE VENTILATION. IF SYMPTOMS DEVELOP, CONSULT YOUR PHYSICIAN. Georgia-Pacific Corporation
WARNING: THIS PRODUCT IS MANUFACTURED WITH A UREA-FORMALDEHYDE RESIN AND WILL RELEASE SMALL
QUANTITIES OF FORMALDEHYDE. FORMALDEHYDE LEVELS IN THE INDOOR AIR CAN CAUSE TEMPORARY EYE AND
RESPIRATORY IRRITATION, AND MAY AGGRAVATE RESPIRATORY CONDITIONS OR ALLERGIES. VENTILATION WILL REDUCE
INDOOR FORMALDEHYDE LEVELS. Weyerhaeuser Company
Ventilation is important in maintaining a comfortable environment and we direct your attention to the discussion of ventilation
contained
in your Owner's Manual.
I

TABLE OF CONTENTS
INTROOUCTION . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .. 1 Effects
Of Prolonged Occupancy ............. 19
Planning And Preparation ................... 2 Controlling Moisture Condensation
........... 19
Loading And Weight Distribution .............. 2 Fire Safety
............................. 20
Have It All Under Control ................... 2 Smoke Detector . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
20
Inspect And Maintain ...................... 2
The
Owner's Information Package ............. 2
Chassis And Vehicle Identification
............. 3
Keys And Locks . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3
Other Sources Of Information ................ 3
PLUMBING SYSTEMS ........................ 21
Fresh Water System ...................... 21
Exterior Shower ........................ 21
Water Purifier System ................... 21
Emergency And Identification Information ....... 4
Pre-Travel Check List ....................... 6 The Water Pump
....................... 21
The Monitor Panel ...................... 21
COCKPIT AND DRIVER'S CONTROLS ............ 7 Sanitizing The Fresh Water System
......... 22
Driver/Passenger Seats .................... 8 Troubleshooting The
Fresh Water System ..... 22
Seat 8elts ............................. 8
~a~ ............................... 22
Child Restraint .......................... 8 Clogged Water Filter
.................... 22
Sun Visors ............................ 9 Excessive Water Pressure
................ 23
Front/Side Slider Windows ................. 9
Rear View Video Monitor ................... 9
Automatic Leveling System
.................. 9
Driving And Parking
....................... 9
Fuel And Fuel Systems ..................... 9
Fuel Fill .............................. 10
Fuel Types And Vapor Lock ............... 10
Alternative Fuel Types ................... 10
Overheating ........................... 10
Water Pump Troubleshooting
.............. 23
The Waste Water System .................. 23
Toilet ................................ 24
Toilet Maintenance ...................... 24
Toilet Troubleshooting ................... 24
Dumping The Holding Tanks .............. 24
Holding Tank Care And Maintenance ........ 25
Water System Winterizing .................. 26
Variable Speed Engine Fan ................ 11
ELECTRICAL SYSTEMS ...................... 27
Engine Exhaust System Component Heat . . . . . . 11
Chassis Electrical System .................. 27
Carbon Monoxide Safety Precautions .......... 11
Chassis Bulbs & Fuses .................. 27
Safety Tips ............................. 11
12-volt Coach System .................... 27
Engine Access ......................... 12
. Tires ............................... 12,50
Towing ................................ 12
ON THE ROAD ............................ 13
Motor Home Loading . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 13
Carrying Capacity ...................... 13
Determining And Distributing Your Motor Home Load 13
Weighing Your Loaded Motor Home ......... 13
Tag Axle Models ...................... 14
Loading Tips
.......................... 15
Trailer Hitches And Towing ................. 15
Towing Automobiles ..................... 16
LIVING WITH YOUR MOTOR HOME ............. 17
Auxiliary Battery ....................... 27
Battery Inspection and Care .............. 27
Battery Charging ....................... 27
Selecting A Replacement Battery ........... 28
120-volt AC System ...................... 28
The Power Converter .................... 28
Ground Fault Interrupter ................... 28
Entertainment Equipment
.................. 29
TV Antenna ............................ 29
TV "Ghosts" And FM "Flutter .............. 29
Minimizing Multipath Distortion &
Improving Signal Quality ................... 30
Power Entry Steps ...................... 17
Generator Power Plant .................... 30
Entry Assist Handle ..................... 17 Generator 0 perating Safety Precautions ...... 30
Entry Doors, Screens, And Locks ........... 17
Warm Weather Operation ................. 31
Windows ............................. 17
Cold Weather Operation .................. 31
Mini-Blinds ............................ 17
Woven Wood Shades .................... 17
Emergency Exit Window ................. 18
Storage ............................... 18
Exterior Compartments ................... 18
Interior Storage ........................ 18
Interior And Furnishings ................... 18
Dinette Conversion ...................... 19
Preparation For Storage .................. 31
Reactivating Generator System After
Long Term Storage ..................... 32
Generator Maintenance And Service ........ 32
Electrical System Wiring ................. 32
LPG SYSTEM .............................. 33
LP Gas Safety Precautions ................. 33
Sofa/Lounge Conversion .................. 19
System Components ...................... 34
Folding Doors . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 19
Hoses And Fittings ..................... 34
Interior Lighting ........................ 19
LP Gas Regulator ...................... 34
Overhead Vents ........................ 19 Using LP Gas System At Low Temperatures .... 34

Filling LP Gas Tanks .................. 35
LP Gas System Leak Checks ............ 35
LPG Leak Detector ................... 35
Lighting LP Gas Appliances ............. 36
APPLIANCES .......................... 37
Water Heater . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 37
Water Heater Bypass System .......... 37
Furnace ............................ 37
Range ............................. 37
Range Exhaust Hood .................. 38
Air Conditioner ...................... 38
Refrigerator ......................... 38
Smoke Detector ......................... 38
MAINTENANCE ............................ 39
Lubrication ............................. 39
Wheels And Tires ........................ 39
Tire Inspection And Rotation .............. 39
Inflation Pressure ....................... 39
Wheel And Tire Balancing ................ 39
Tire Replacement ....................... 40
Engine ................................ 40
Engine Oils ........................... 40
Engine Fuel Systems ..................... 40
Fuel And Air Filters ..................... 40
Air Cleaner Element Replacement .......... 40
Cooling System ......................... 40
Maintenance And Inspection .............. 40
Coolant Level ......................... 40
Flushing Cooling System ................. 41
Engine Electrical ......................... 41
Jump Starting ................... .t . .... 41
Transmission ............................ 41
Maintenance and Inspection ............... 41
Heating And Air Conditioning ............... 41
Inspection ............................ 41
Air Conditioner Operational Quick Checks .... 41
Electrical Circuit Diagnosis ................ 42
Vacuum System Diagnosis
................ 42
Refrigeration Section ...... : ............. 42
Front Suspension And Alignment ............ 42
Rear Suspension. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 42
Jacking Procedure ....................... 42
Brakes ................................ 42
Brake Hose Inspection
................... 42
Lining Inspection ....................... 42
Drive Belts ............................. 43
Exterior ............................... 43
Stains ............................... 43
Windows, Doors, Vents & Locks ........... 43
Sealant Renewal ....................... 43
Rubber Roof System .................... 44
Door & Window Resealing ................ 44
Interior ................................ 44
Upholstery & Drapes .................... 44
Wall & Ceiling Panels . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 44
Floors & Carpeting ..................... 44
PREPARING THE MOTOR HOME FOR
LONG~ERM STORAGE ....................... 45
Storage Check List ....................... 45
Short-term Storage lIess than 60 days)
Above Freezing
........................ 45
Long-term Storage Above Freezing .......... 45
Winterization And Winter Storage ............ 45
Winter Storage Below Freezing ............ 46
Water System Winterizing ................ 46
General Vehicle Winter Storage Check List .... 46
Reactivating The Motor Home After Storage .. 47
MAINTENANCE CHART ...................... 49
TIRE REPLACEMENT ........................ 50
If
You Get a Flat Tire ................... 50
Changing a Flat Tire .................... 50
Required Tools and Equipment ............. 50
Ford Chassis .......................... 51
Chevrolet and Oshkosh Chassis ............ 51
To Change a Front Tire .................. 51
To Change a Rear Tire ................... 52
Mor/Ryde
Tag Axle ..................... 53
i~
1-

INTRODUCTION
Welcome to the recreational vehicle life-style and
the growing family of motor home owners. We
sincerely
thank you for choosing a Fleetwood motor
home!
Your
Southwind has been designed to provide you
with many years of carefree, pleasant traveling and
vacationing. This manual describes many features
of
your motor home and provides an operating guide so
that you can obtain the best performance from those
features. Your motor home has been designed to con-
form with, or exceed, the American National Stan-
dards Institute A119.2, NFPA 501C, Canadian CSA
Standard Z-240 (units built for Canada only). and ap-
plicable motor vehicle standards. These standards
establish
the plumbing, heating, electrical and other
requirements for quality and safety. Compliance with
these standards is indicated by the seal attached just
outside the entry door. This seal is the outward sign
of internal quality.
Like all
finely crafted equipment. your Southwind
will require care and regular maintenance in order to
deliver maximum value and performance. The dealer
will give you basic operating and maintenance instruc-
tions; however, supplement
this instruction by reading
all instructional material furnished with the motor
home in the Owner's Information Package and
Chassis Operator's Manual. If,
after taking delivery
of your new motor home, you feel it requires addi-
tional
conditioning or adjustment; please return it to
your dealer as soon as possible. This Owner's Manual,
along
with the information provided in your Owner's
Information Package and Chassis Operator's Manual
outlines important areas of maintenance and provides
a maintenance schedule
for you to follow to ensure
safe, troublefree service from your motor home. Study
these instructions carefully before you operate the
motor home for the first time. Spend some time with
your dealer going over safety and operating instruc-
tions before you leave the dealer's lot. A good work-
ing knowledge of your motor home and how to care
for it will help you enjoy many miles and years of
recreational living.
If
you have any questions regarding operation,
maintenance, or service, please
contact your dealer
immediately so he can assist you. Your dealer's Ser-
vice or Sales Department will handle any normal pro-
blems which might occur.
Your
motor home is covered by one of the most
comprehensive warranty programs in the RV industry,
and this manual contains a section outlining the war-
ranty and explaining your rights and obligations,
as
well as the rights and obligations of the dealer and
manufacturer, under
the terms of the warranty. Please
read
this section carefully. You will be better inform-
ed in case you have a warranty-related problem, and
1
your dealer will be better able to get you on the road
again.
If there is anything about the warranty or what it
does or does not cover, please contact your dealer.
The materials in your
Owner's Information Package
contain warranty information on the various ap-
pliances and
components in your motor home. War-
ranty registration cards for these items should
be filled
out and mailed as soon as possible after you take
delivery of your motor home. Your dealer can help you
with this.
You will automatically receive an Ownercare Card
approximately 3-4 weeks after delivery of your new
Southwind. This plastic card is imprinted with your
name, the motor home serial number, and manufac-
turing plant location. If your motor home ever needs
warranty service, present this card to the dealer.
Always return your motor home to the selling dealer
for warranty service. If this is not possible, you may
contact any other authorized Southwind dealer, or any
authorized Fleetwood
motor home dealer. The ser-
vice
department at any of the plants listed on the
inside back cover of this manual can help you find
a dealer in your area.
If, for some reason, a problem is not handled to
your satisfaction:
1. Discuss any warranty-related problems direct-
ly with the manager or owner of the dealer-
ship, giving him an opportunity to help his ser-
vice department resolve the matter for you.
2. If a problem arises that cannot be resolved to
your satisfaction by your local dealer, contact
the factory service manager. The factories are
listed in this manual. Please contact the one
nearest you.
3. We sincerely believe that your dealer and the
factory representative will be able to solve any
problem
which might arise. If their combined
efforts are not satisfactory, please send a let-
ter describing the circumstances to:
Fleetwood Enterprises, Inc.
Consumer Affairs Department
P.O. Box 7300
Riverside, CA 92523
Please include the brand name and serial
number of your motor home. The serial number
is located on
the identification tag next to the
entry door.
I

4. If you wish to call for assistance, please use
these toll-free telephone numbers:
From California:
[phone]
From outside California: [phone]
NOTE: Some equipment and features described
or shown in this manual may be optional on
some models. This instructional manual is of
general nature only. Because of the continuous
program of product improvement conducted by
Fleetwood, it is possible that recent product
changes may not be included in this manual.
Specifications may change without notice. The
instructions included in this manual are intend-
ed as a guide, and in no respect extend the
responsibilities of the manufacturing subsidiary,
parent company or affiliates beyond the stan-
dard written warranty as presented in this
manual.
Photographs or illustrations in this manual are
representative
of function and may not be
specific in their depiction of actual equipment,
fabrics, interior or exterior decor or design op-
tions as installed on or in your motor home.
NOTE: This product is designed for recreational
use and
short term occupancy only. It is not
designed or intended to be used as permanent
housing. Use of this product for long term or
permanent occupancy may lead to premature
deterioration of interior finishes, fabrics,
carpeting, and drapes. Damage or deterioration
due to long term occupancy may not be con-
sidered normal, and may under the terms of the
warranty, constitute misuse, abuse, or neglect,
and may therefore reduce your warranty protec-
tion. This manual contains a discussion of long
term occupancy problems. Please refer to that
section before considering this product for long
term occupancy.
The
motor home has been thoroughly inspected
before
shipment. YOUR DEALER IS RESPONSIBLE
FOR PERFORMING A COMPLETE PREDELIVERY IN-
SPECTION
OF THE CHASSIS AND ALL MOTOR
HOME COMPONENTS AS SPECIFIED IN THE
PREDELIVERY CHECKLISTS SUPPLIED BY THE
MOTOR HOME MANUFACTURER AND THE CHASSIS
MANUFACTURER. YOU SHOULD RECEIVE A COPY
OF THESE COMPLETED CHECKLISTS FROM YOUR
DEALER WHEN YOUR MOTOR HOME IS DELIVERED
TO YOU.
AS A
PART OF THE PREDELIVERY INSPECTION PRO-
CEDURE, THE DEALER IS TO ROAD TEST THE
MOTOR HOME, NOTING AND CORRECTING ANY
STEERING PROBLEMS BEFORE DELIVERY.
THEREFORE, FLEETWOOD AND ITS SUBSIDIARIES
WILL NOT
BE RESPONSIBLE FOR FRONT END ALIGN-
MENT AFTER THIS PREDELIVERY INSPECTION IS
DONE.
2
PLANNING AND PREPARATION
Each year millions of Americans embark on trips
using some type of recreational vehicle. Proper plan-
ning
of your trip will ensure a pleasurable experience.
A
thorough knowledge of your RV is important if you
are going
to get the most out of the convenience and
safety items built into your vehicle.
Be as familiar with
it as you are with your personal car or truck. The
booklets included in your Owner's Information
Package cover details of operation for the major ap-
pliances and
equipment built into your motor home
for your comfort, convenience and safety. Later sec-
tions in this manual will also explain how to operate,
maintain, and service
important components and
systems in your motor home.
LOADING AND WEIGHT DISTRIBUTION
Proper loading is one of the most important con-
siderations when traveling in an RV. Your motor home
is built to safely carry a certain maximum load. For
safety's
sake, NEVER OVERLOAD THE MOTOR HOME.
This manual contains a detailed section that explains
proper loading and
weighing of the vehicle.
HAVE IT ALL UNDER CONTROL
Remember, your new motor home is a large vehi-
cle and requires
different driving skills than a
passenger car. Later in
this manual we'll outline some
tips on how to become familiar with the handling
characteristics and driving techniques that you need
to know to be a safe motor home driver. Of course,
don't overlook the laws of your state or province that
govern driving a motor home. Your state or provincial
Motor Vehicle Department can provide you with the
applicable vehicle codes that spell out your rights and
responsibilities as a
motor home owner.
INSPECT AND MAINTAIN
Follow a consistent schedule of inspection and
maintenance for your motor home. Your continuing
safety and comfort depend on it. This manual includes
a
section outlining maintenance intervals. Adherence
to these schedules will minimize the possibility of
failure of any important system or part of your motor
home. The time spent inspecting and maintaining your
motor home will provide you with many years of
recreational pleasure.
THE OWNER'S INFORMATION PACKAGE
This package contains very valuable documents
about your motor home and its components and
systems. This
Owner's Manual is in this package.
Since this owner's manual does not cover every possi-
ble detail
of equipment and options installed on or
in your motor home, there are booklets and instruc-
tional material in the package that will help you safe-
ly operate, maintain and troubleshoot those items. Be
sure you read all this information and understand the
safety and operating instructions included in the
package. Keep these references handy. If you ever
decide
to sell or trade your motor home, be sure the
new owner gets all. the material in this package.
,
I-
i-

Owner's Information Package
CHASSIS AND VEHICLE IDENTIFICATION
Several numbers are used to identify the vehicle
and components used on the vehicle. The V.i.N. or
Vehicle Identification Number is the legal identifica-
tion of the completed vehicle and is the number on
the vehicle registration. The V.i.N. is found on the DOT
certification tag attached to the left sidewall of the
motor home driver compartment. Refer to this infor-
mation when ordering parts from the chassis
manufacturer or chassis dealer service center. The
Fleetwood Identification Number (F.i.N.) is located on
the plate just outside the main entry door and on the
outside left front side of the motor home. Use this
number when ordering parts through your Fleetwood
dealer or Service Center.
KEYS AND LOCKS
The keys to your motor home are pictured below.
Record all key numbers and keep them in a safe place
at home and in the motor home.
Keys
3
Key No.: _______________ _
Other Sources Of Information
Since everyone's recreational and travel needs are
different, many good publications are available for
RV'ers. These books and magazines offer many tips
and guidelines ranging from safe operation of your
RV to regional recipe favorites, travel hints and direc-
tories of all kinds. Many of them contain first-person
accounts of experienced RV'ers that can be both
entertaining and informative.
The following is a list of publishers that may be
of interest:
TL Enterprises
29901 Agoura Road
Agoura, CA 91300
Intertec
P.O. Box 12901
Overland Park, KS 66212
Woodall Publishing Co.
Box F
Highland Park, IL 60035
Trail-R-Club of America
Box 1376 B
Beverly Hills, CA 90213
Family Motorcoaching
8291 Clugh Pike
Cincinnati, OH 45244
Scott, Foresman & Co.
1909 K St. N.w.
Washington, D.C. 20049
Recreation Vehicle Industries Association
P.O. Box 2999
1896 Preston White Drive
Reston, VA 22090

1990 SOUTHWIND
EMERGENCY AND IDENTIFICATION INFORMATION
Before we explain how things work, take a few minutes to fill in the information on these two pages.
It'll be a handy reference for you in the future.
Your Name
__________________________________________________________________ __
Model ______________________________________________________________________ __
Serial Number ________________________________________________________________ _
Date Purchased ______________________________________________________________ _
Dealer Name ______________ ~ ________________________________________________ _
Address
____________________________________________________________________ __
Insurance Policy
Company ____________________________________________________________________ _
Agent Name ________________________________________________________________ ___
Telephone ____________________________________________________________________ _
Policy Number ________________________________________________________________ _
Range/Oven
Manufacturer ________________________________________________________________ _
Model ______________________________________________________________________ __
Serial Number ________________________________________________________________ __
Refrigerator
Manufacturer ________________________________________________________________ _
Model ______________________________________________________________________ __
Serial Number ________________________________________________________________ __
Furnace
Manufacturer ________________________________________________________________ _
Model ______________________________________________________________________ __
Serial Number _______________________________________________________________ _
4

Water Heater
Manufacturer___________________________________________________________________________
Model ______________________________________________________________________ __
Serial Number_______________________________________________________________________ __
Air Conditioner
Manufacturer___________________________________________________________________________
Model ______________________________________________________________________ __
Serial Number________________________________________________________________________ __
Microwave Oven
Manufacturer___________________________________________________________________________
Model ______________________________________________________________________ __
Serial Number _________________________________________________________________ __
Stereo
Manufacturer ________________________ ~ ______________________________________________
Model ______________________________________________________________________ __
Serial Number______________________________________________________________________ __
Generator
Manufacturer__________________________________________________________________________
Model ______________________________________________________________________ __
Serial Number________________________________________________________________________ __
Miscellaneous
Key Number_______________________________________________________________________
5

PRE.:rRAVEL CHECK LIST
Exterior
Disconnect water, electrical, and drain lines
Check roof
top carrier (if installed)
Remove blocks from wheels
Check wheel
nut torque. (See chassis Operator's Manual)
Check LPG tank level and refill if necessary
Check hitch and hitch ball
Check tires and adjust pressures if necessary
Check batteries
Check running lights, turn signals, interior and panel lights
Check brakes, brake fluid, brake lights
Check cooling system
Check windshield wipers, washers, and washer fluid
Retract step
Interior
Lower TV antenna
Close refrigerator door
Turn
off water heater
Turn
off water pump
Turn
off furnace
Turn off range pilot
Close
cooktop cover
Close roof vents
Close all doors, drawers and windows
6
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COCKPIT AND DRIVER'S CONTROLS
Consult Chassis Operator's Manual for additional
information.
• Parking Brake-The parking brake lever is located
on the floor near the left driver wall. Pull the lever
up to set the brake, push down to release.
• Cruise Control -The cruise control is located
on the turn signal lever. (Chevrolet Chassis only).
To engage: Slide RESUME/ON/OFF switch to
ON. Accelerate to your desired cruising speed,
push the SET/COAST qutton on the end of the
control arm. The cruise control will hold this
speed automatically. To accelerate, slide
RESUME/ON/OFF switch to RESUME/ACCEL.
The vehicle will accelerate as long as you hold
the switch in this postion. When you reach your
desired new cruise speed, release the switch.
This new speed will now be held by the cruise
control.
Coast: Press the SET button to COAST. This
will disengage the cruise control temporarily.
When you release the button, the cruise control
will engage at your new speed.
To disengage: Step on brake pedal (tap the
pedal to activate the stop light switch.) When
the brakes are applied, the cruise control
automatically disengages. You may also
disengage the system by sliding the
RESUME/ON/OFF switch to "OFF".
NOTE: When cruise control is engaged on
a steep grade it will automatically disengage
when speed drops by approximately 10
MPH.
To reengage: Slide the RESUME/ON/OFF
switch to "ON". Press engage button on the end
of the control arm.
WARNING: Do not use the cruise control on slip-
pery roads or in congested traffic.
NOTE: See Ford and/or Oshkosh Operator's
Manual for functions before engaging system.
" Headlight Switch -The three-position light
switch controls the headlights, taillights, park-
ing lights, sidemarker lights and instrument lights.
Instrument light intensity can be varied by turn-
ing knob clockwise or counterclockwise.
The headlight circuit is protected by a circuit
breaker in the light switch. An overload on the
breaker will cause the lights to "flicker" on and
off. If this condition develops, have your headlight
wiring checked immediately.
7
• 2-Speed Windshield Wiper/Washer
with Delay-
Turn inner knob clockwise for wiper action. The
wiper blades are mounted on "articulated" arms
that allow the blades to follow a wiping path as
wide as possible.
OFF-No wiper action.
1st notch -Wiper delay ON. Turn outer knob
clockwise for longer delay between wiper
strokes.
2nd notch-Slow wiping action.
3rd notch-Fast wiping action.
To WASH, press outer knob, then release. One
press of washer knob cycles wipers once. The
washer nozzles are located on the wiper arms
close to the wiper blades. They move with the
blades and provide continuous washer coverage.
• Auxiliary Start System -The Auxiliary Start
System permits using the auxiliary battery (see
Electrical System) to start the motor home engine
if the vehicle battery is discharged.
• Before engaging system, be sure the vehicle
is stopped, shift to "P" (PARK) and apply the
parking brake.
The Auxiliary Start System has no effect on the
vehicle except to aid in starting the motor home
engine. If the vehicle alternator is operating pro-
perly, the batteries will be recharged while driv-
ing (see Electrical System).
The auxiliary start system will engage
automatically when the main (chassis) battery
charge is insufficient to crank the engine. The
instrument panel indicator will show either of
two normal conditions when the ignition switch
is turned to the "CRANK" position:
1. GREEN - the main battery is charged, and
capable of cranking the engine. Cranking power
is being provided by the main battery. The green
indicator will remain on for approximately 10
seconds after cranking.
2. ORANGE -The main battery has insufficient
charge for engine cranking. The auxiliary battery
system has been activated to crank the engine.
The orange indicator will remain on for approx-
imately 10 seconds after cranking.
Of course, if both the main and auxiliary bat-
teries are dead, the engine will not crank, nor
will the panel indicator light up. Sufficient crank-
ing charge may be restored to the auxiliary bat-
teries by plugging in to an external 110V AC elec-
trical source or by running the generator.

NOTE: If extended normal driving does not
recharge the batteries, see an authorized Fleet-
wood motor home service center.
* Heater/Air Conditioner Controls -The cockpit
Heater/Air Conditioner controls are located on the
lower right instrument panel. These controls
operate the heating and air conditioning systems
for
the driver/cockpit area only.
Cool/Heat
Lever-Push this lever to the left
or right for cooling/heating.
Function Selector Buttons
OFF-No heating or cooling, but fan runs
at
low speed for continuous circulation of
outside air through the instrument panel
outlets.
MAX AlC-Air conditioner compressor is
on, inside air is recirculated through the
system for maximum cooling.
AlC-Air conditioner compressor is on, out-
side air is circulated through instrument
panel outlets.
VENT -AIC compressor is off, outside air
is circulated through
the instrument panel
outlets.
HEAT -A/C compressor is off, outside air is
circulated through the heating system, and
distributed
to floor outlets.
Heated air is circulated to defroster outlets.
Fan Switch -Sets fan speed to any of 4
speeds. The fan
switch does not affect the
fan if the OFF function button is pressed.
Driver/Passenger Seats
The driver's and passenger's seats offer four posi-
tion/comfort adjustments:
CAUTION: Do not adjust the seat position while the
vehicle is in motion.
* Forward/Back -The forward/back lever is located
on the left side of the seat.
*
*
Push the lever forward to unlock. Release the lock
lever
to secure the seat position.
Swivel - The swivel lock lever is located on the
left side of the seat.
Push the lever forward to swivel. The seat locks
in the center, forward position. When unlocked, the
seat will swivel freely around to the center position.
Recline and Lumbar Adjustment -The recliner
lever
is located on the seat arm.
Push the lever to recline. The angle is continuous-
ly variable.
Release lever at desired angle.
Turn the lumbar adjuster at the side of the seat
as desired.
8
Seat Belts
Seat belts are an important safety feature of your vehi-
cle. For your protection, always use your seat belts. The
driver'S seat and other seats designed to carry
passengers while under way
have been equipped with
seat belts.
WARNING: ALL
RIDERS SHOULD BE FURNISH-
ED WITH AND USE SEAT BELTS WHILE THE VEHI-
CLE IS IN MOTION. SEATS WHICH ARE NOT
EQUIPPED WITH SAFETY BELTS SHOULD NOT BE
OCCUPIED WHILE THE VEHICLE IS IN MOTION
AND WILL BE LABELED: "NOT FOR USE WHILE
THE VEHICLE IS IN MOTION:' IT IS NOT POSSI-
BLE TO BELT IN PERSONS USING BEDS.
Adjust seat belts as follows:
* Pivot buckle at right angles
to the belt and pull
to the desired length.
•
To fasten belt, be sure it is not twisted, then push
the tongue end of one belt into the buckle of the
mating belt.
Be sure it latches. Adjust the belt snug-
ly
as low on the abdomen as comfort will allow,
for greatest safety.
• To release the belt, depress the button in the center
of the buckle
and slide the tongue out of the bUCkle.
Never use a belt for more than one person at a time.
Child Restraint
All vehicle occupants, and especially children, should
be restrained whenever riding in vehicles. Holding a child
in your arms is not a substitute for a child restraint
system.
In an accident, a child held in a person's arms
can be struck or crushed by any unrestrained rider. An
unrestrained child could also
be injured by striking the
interior, or by being thrown from the vehicle during a
sudden maneuver or impact. A child restraint system
can help protect a child while riding in a vehicle. Child
restraint systems
are designed to be secured in the
vehicle seats
by lap belts or the lap portion of a lap-
shoulder belt. Children could
be endangered in a crash
if their child restraints
are not properly secured in the
vehicle.
Children small enough for a child restraint system
should be restrained that way if at all possible. However,
the following may provide some degree of protection_
if a child restraint is not used. /
* Infants who cannot sit up should be placed in a
padded baby
carrier. Put it crosswise on the vehicle
seat
and securely restrain it with the vehicle's seat
belts.
* Children who can sit up by themselves should be
restrained with the seat belts provided. Never let
a child stand or kneel on any seat.
When using
any child restraint system, be sure to read
and follow all instructions on installation and use that
come with the system.
1--~
,

When securing a child restraint with a lap belt that
has no retractor, pull the excess webbing through the
adjustment mechanism.
If the child restraint is still not secure, use a different
seating position
in the vehicle and/or contact your dealer
and the child restraint manufacturer for help.
Sun Visors
The sun visors at the driver's and passenger's posi-
.tions swing down
and adjust to provide relief from glare
and bright skies. The visors do not adjust to shade the
side windows.
Swivel tension may be adjusted with a flat blade
screwdriver at the tension adjusting screw.
Front/Side Slider Windows
Turn lock, slide window and/ or screen to open and
close.
REAR VIEW VIDEO MONITOR
If your motor home is equipped with the optional rear
view video monitor, the wide-angle, fixed-focus camera
is located at the top rear of the motor home. The rear-
view picture
is displayed on a screen on the motor home
instrument panel. The monitor screen
is overlayed with
a distance scale reference which gives approximate
distance relationships of objects to the
rear of the motor
home.
The system operates only while the ignition switch
is ON, and may be turned off at the screen control panel.
Controls on the screen allow you to adjust brightness
and contrast
as lighting conditions change.
Using the video monitor will take practice. Always
allow more space for maneuvering until you
are com-
fortable with using the system. Check the side-mounted
mirrors often while driving
and especially during lane
changes and when backing up.
CAUTION: THE REAR VIEW VIDEO MONITOR
SYSTEM PROVIDES A GENERAL VIEW OF THE
ROAD AND OBJECTS TO THE REAR OF THE
MOTOR HOME. YOUR PERCEPTION OF THIS
VIEW AND
THE RELATIONSHIPS OF OBJECTS TO
THE MOTOR HOME AND EACH OTHER WILL BE
DIFFERENT THAN THAT SEEN IN A REAR VIEW
MIRROR. LIGHT CONDITIONS AND THE ADJUST-
MENT OF THE SCREEN CONTROLS WILL ALSO
AFFECT YOUR PERCEPTION. ALWAYS USE THE
SIDE-MOUNTED REAR VIEW MIRRORS WITH THE
VIDEO MONITOR SYSTEM.
The camera lens is exposed to road dirt and will get
dirty often. Clean the camera lens
and monitor screen
with a quality glass cleaner and non-abrasive cloth or
towel.
AUTOMATIC LEVELING SYSTEM
Controls for the optional leveling system are located
on the cab floor next to the driver's seat.
A detailed operating
and maintenance guide is included
in your owner's information package. Read all instruc-
9
tion for this system carefully before operating the
system.
DRIVING AND PARKING
Once you become accustomed to the feel of the con-
trols and the reference points from the driver's seat you
will find driving the motor home comparable to driving
your family
car. Become familiar with the position of
the motor home in traffic,
and be cautious when
maneuvering
to allow for the length and width of the
vehicle. Always allow extra room to corner and to change
lanes. Learn to use the side mirrors to view the road
behind. Check them often.
Drive
with consideration on the highway, observing
all speed and safety regulations. The best cruising speed
of your motor home will vary
with road and weather
conditions.
Remember that your motor home
is heavier than a
car, making it less maneuverable and harder to stop.
Also, because of its greater side surface area, it is more
eaSily affected by cross winds. Allow extra distances
for passing
and stopping, and drive at a moderate speed,
particularly
in traffic and in gusty wind conditions.
Driving on winding or mountain roads
is not difficult
if done with reasonable care. Observe proper vehicle
speeds when ascending or descending hills
and always
operate in the proper transmission range. Downshift on
hills to avoid overheating or undue engine loads.
Downshift when descending grades. Engine braking
power will help control vehicle speed, and relieve some
of the strain on the
brakes.
Road conditions, terrain, weather, and other driving
factors
are sometimes unpredictable, and mountain driv-
ing or desert temperatures can put extreme demands
on drivetrain components-especially the transmission.
Under extreme heat conditions you may need
to turn
off the vehicle air conditioner
to improve engine and
transmission cooling.
Allow for the extra height of your motor home
and
avoid areas having low overhead clearance. Check for
low-hanging tree branches or other obstructions
whenever you drive or park. Avoid
low roofs when pull-
ing in for service. Always check overhead clearances
of overpasses and bridges. This may be particularly im-
portant if you drive with the overhead vents open ~r
if the motor home is equipped with a roof air condi-
tioner, roof rack,
CB or TV/radio antenna.
When parking parallel
to a curb, be sure to allow for
poles or obstructions as the front and rear portions of
the motor home swing wider than an automobile. When
parking
on an incline, turn the front wheels into the curb
in the direction of the roll to aid the parking brake. Always
shift the transmission to PARK ("P") and set the park-
ing brake when parking.
FUEL AND FUEL SYSTEMS
See the Chassis Operator's Manual in the Owner's
Information
Package for fuel recommendations. Since
the generator fuel supply is the same as the motor home
!
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engine fuel supply, consult the operating instructions
for
the generator before deciding on a fuel type.
Fuel Fill
The fuel filler cap is located on the rear of the coach.
Modern fuel systems may build up vapor pressure
within the tank as the gasoline warms during use or
hot weather. Under certain conditions, sudden release
of this pressure when removing the gasoline cap can
spray gasoline from the fill opening, causing a possi-
ble hazard.
WARNING: WHEN REMOVING THE GASOLINE
CAP, ROTATE IT SLOWLY ONLY FAR ENOUGH TO
ALLOW PRESSURE TO RELEASE. AFTER ANY
"HISSING" SOUNDS STOP, COMPLETE THE
REMOVAL
OF THE CAP.
To protect the gasoline system from excessive pressure
or vacuum, or from sudden release
of pressure, replace
lost caps
with caps of the same design available from
your Fleetwood
motor home dealer.
Clean up fuel spills immediately. Raw fuel spilled on
the motor home could damage the exterior finish, and
is a serious fire hazard.
Fuel Types And Vapor Lock
Today's automotive fuel and emissions systems are
sophisticated and highly engineered to meet Federal
and state emissions standards. They are also sometimes
sensitive
to fuel types and blends, particularly blends
that are optimized for climatic conditions. Fuel refiners
change the additives in the fuel
to compensate for
temperature variations during winter or summer months.
This compensation changes the
"vapor pressure" of
the fuel. This means that the fuel vaporizes easier during
the winter than
it does during the summer when higher
air temperatures help the fuel vaporize in
the engine.
Since colder temperatures reduce the fuel's ability to
vaporize and burn in your engine, additives help raise
the volatility of the fuel. This helps the engine start
easier and run smoother during winter months. Under
the best
of conditions, the refiners supply their gas sta-
tion customers
with the correct fuel for their location
and seasonal conditions. Sometimes though, fuel blend-
ed for winter is supplied during summer months.
What this all means is that there is a possibility of
"vapor lock" during summer driving. This condition is
a combination
of new engine design (with attendant
higher temperatures under the hood), and excessive fuel
vaporization caused by the vapor pressure of the fuel
you are using. If your engine and fuel system are pro-
perly tuned and maintained, you should not experience
vapor lock. If vapor lock occurs, the fuel itself could
be the cause. If at all possible, check with the gas sta-
tion attendant as
to the fuel blend before filling your
fuel tank. If you purchase your fuel from nationally
recognized fuel dealers, your chances of vapor lock can
be reduced.
If you store your motor home during the
winter months, avoid storing large quantities of winter
blended fuel in the tank. When you take the vehicle
10
out of storage in the spring or summer, this fuel may
cause vapor lock until
it is used up.
Another note on long storage - if you plan to store
your motor home for a long period
in conditions of wide-
ly varying humidity, consider topping off the fuel tank.
This will reduce the buildup
of condensation in the tank
that could cause rough engine operation, fuel filter
blockage, or other problems associated
with water in
the fuel.
NOTE: DURING EXTENDED PERIODS OF
STORAGE (60 DAYS OR MORE), GASOLINE MAY
DETERIORATE DUE TO OXIDATION. THIS CAN
DAMAGE RUBBER AND OTHER MATERIALS IN
THE FUEL SYSTEM SUCH AS CARBURETOR AC-
CELERATOR PUMp, DIAPHRAGMS, AND CAR-
BURETOR INLET VALVES. IT MAY ALSO CLOG
SMALL ORIFICES.
A COMMERCIALLY AVAILABLE GASOLINE FUEL
STABILIZER MAY BE ADDED TO GASOLlNE-
POWERED VEHICLES WHENEVER ACTUAL OR
EXPECTED STORAGE PERIODS EXCEED 60 DAYS.
FOLLOW THE ADDITIVE MANUFACTURER'S IN-
STRUCTIONS.
OPERATE THE VEHICLE REGULAR-
LY DURING THE STORAGE PERIOD TO MIX AND
CIRCULATE THE ANTI-OXIDANT AGENT
THROUGHOUT THE FUEL SYSTEM.
Alternative Fuel Types
Gasohol, a mixture of ethanol (grain alcohol), or
methanol and gasoline may be used in your motor home
engine
without voiding the warranty. However, DO NOT
UNDER ANY CIRCUMSTANCES USE FUEL BLENDS
CONTAINING MORE THAN
5% METHANOL OR 10%
ETHANOL, AND
DO NOT USE BLENDS THAT CON-
TAIN BOTH METHANOL AND ETHANOL. Any fuel
blend you use containing alcohol
must also contain
cosolvents and other additives to protect the fuel
system components. If you are not sure of the com-
position
of the alcohol/gasoline blend you intend to use,
ask your service station operator. Discontinue use of
any alcohol/gasoline blend if driveability or fuel system
problems occur.
Chemical reactions between the fuel components and
the materials in
the fuel lines can cause deterioration
of the fuel lines during storage periods. These effects
are especially noticeable with gasohol blends. If you
plan to use alcohol blended fuel, and expect to store
your motor home for periods
of 60 days or more, add
a fuel additive
that is formulated to counteract these
oxidation effects.
Your dealer can advise you on the
proper additives and their use.
If gasohol is spilled on a painted surface, some dull-
ing or softening of the paint may result.
Overheating .
Operate and service the engine and cooling systems
in your vehicle as recommended in
the Chassis
Operator's Manual.
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Variable Speed Engine Fan
Your motor home engine is equipped with a variable
speed fan clutch. When the engine is under load or re-
quires maximum cooling, the fan adjusts and turns faster.
The fan may become very noisy at high speed and when
maximum cooling is required. When the engine doesn't
need maximum cooling, the fan just idles along. This
conserves fuel and the fan
is less noisy.
High speed fan noise
can sometimes be misinterpreted
as transmission slippage. This is not the case. When
the engine
is hot and requires extra cooling, the fan turns
at full speed. High engine speed and temperature con-
ditions, such as pulling away from a stop after long
freeway driving, cim cause loud fan noise until the engine
.cools down. This fan noise indicates
that the fan is do-
ing what it is supposed to do. This noise is not a defect
in the fan or the transmission.
ENGINE EXHAUST SYSTEM
COMPONENT HEAT
Your motor home engine has been designed to con-
form with Federal and State emission requirements. To
meet these requirements, engine operating temperatures
are high. As a result, the engine and exhaust system
components radiate a great deal
of heat. Parts of the
exhaust system may operate at temperatures near
700
degrees F. The temperatures are normal for your vehicle.
Special heat shields may be built into your vehicle
to protect wiring or other components from possible
heat damage caused by the exhaust system. Do not
modify or remove these shields without consulting your
RV dealer. If you want to install equipment, add wiring,
plumbing, or other components near the exhaust system
or the heat shields, do
so only after you thoroughly in-
vestigate and understand how the equipment will be
affected by the heat radiated by the exhaust system.
CARBON MONOXIDE SAFETY PRECAUTIONS
Carbon monoxide is a colorless, tasteless, odorless
gas. It is a by-product of combustion in engine(s). The
engines
in your motor home and generator system (if
installed) produce it constantly while they are running.
CARBON MONOXIDE
IS DEADLY. Please read and
understand the following precautions to protect yourself
and others from the effects of carbon monoxide
poisoning.
WARNING: EXHAUST GASES ARE DEADLY. DO
NOT BLOCK THE TAILPIPES OR SITUATE THE
VEHICLE IN A PLACE WHERE THE EXHAUST
GASES HAVE ANY POSSIBILITY OF ACCUMULAT-
ING
EITHER OUTSIDE, UNDERNEATH, OR INSIDE
YOUR VEHICLE OR ANY NEARBY VEHICLES.
OUTSIDE AIR MOVEMENTS CAN
CARRY EX-
HAUST GASES INSIDE THE VEHICLE THROUGH
WINDOWS OR OTHER OPENINGS REMOTE FROM
THE EXHAUST OUTLET. OPERATE THE ENGINE(S)
ONLY WHEN SAFE DISPERSION OF EXHAUST
GASES CAN
BE ASSURED, AND MONITOR OUT-
SIDE CONDITIONS TO BE SURE THAT EXHAUST
CONTINUES TO BE DISPERSED SAFELY.
11
Beware of exhaust gas (carbon monoxide) poisoning
symptoms:
Dizziness
Intense Headache
Weakness and Sleepiness
Vomiting
Muscular Twitching
Throbbing
in Temples
If symptoms indicate the possibility
of carbon monox-
ide poisoning, turn off the engine(s) immediately, get
out into fresh air
at once, and summon medical
assistance.
WARNING: DO NOT UNDER ANY CIRCUM-
STANCES OPERATE
ANY ENGINE WHILE
SLEEPING.
You would not be able to monitor outside conditions
to assure
that engine exhaust does not enter the in-
terior, and you would not be alert to exhaust odors or
symptoms
of carbon monoxide poisoning.
During stops while traveling, inspect the exhaust
systems for
road damage. Do not operate an engine with
a damaged exhaust system.
Check the exhaust system(s) during routine
maintenance, and repair any leaks, damage, or obstruc-
tions before further operations.
Do not modify the exhaust system(s) in any way
without first consulting the RV manufacturer.
SAFETY TIPS
Read and understand the Chassis Operator's Manual.
When backing the motor home, have a person stand
to the rear
on the driver's side to guide you.
Before departing
on a trip, check your routes.
Remember, some tunnels prohibit motor homes
with LP
gas systems.
Drive
at moderate speeds, particularly in traffic and
in gusty wind conditions.
Allow extra distance for passing and stopping.
While traveling; make sure all occupants use their seat
belts.
While traveling, make sure all doors
are closed and
cabinets, drawers, and loose objects
are secure.
Instruct your family on what to do in case of fire,
and hold fire drills periodically.
Maintain proper charge in the fire extinguisher.
Gas detectors are available from RV equipment dealers,
and may be considered as safety accessories.
Keep a well stocked first-aid kit handy.
Keep. a tool box handy.
Check tires often while traveling. Inside rear duals
should receive special attention,
as these tires may go
flat and not be noticed. Running a flat on an inside dual
I -
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could lead to a tire fire that would be extremely dif-
ficult to extinguish. Make it a habit to check tire
pressures
with an accurate tire gauge before each trip,
and when re-fueling give each tire a sharp rap on the
tread surface
with a hammer or similar object. Properly
inflated tires produce a
"bung" sound when rapped.
If the tire is flat, the sound will be a dull "thud".
Engine Access
The top of the engine may be accessed for service
by removing the engine cover. Remove the
two access
cover screws and
lift off the cover. When replacing the
screws,
be careful to get them in straight.
WARNING: WHEN INSTALLING THE ENGINE
COVER, BE SURE THE COVER IS FULLY SEATED
ON THE GASKET SEAL AND SECURED BY THE
COVER SCREWS. DO NOT ALLOW CARPETING,
FLOOR MATS OR OTHER MATERIAL TO INTER-
RUPT THE SEAL BETWEEN THE COVER AND THE
ENGINE COMPARTMENT. IF THE ENGINE COVER
IS NOT INSTALLED CORRECTLY, ENGINE EX-
HAUST GASES COULD LEAK INTO THE
PASSENGER COMPARTMENT CREATING A SAFE-
TY HAZARD. IF THE ENGINE MUST BE RUN WITH
THE ENGINE COVER OFF FOR MAINTENANCE
PURPOSES, BE SURE THE VEHICLE INTERIOR IS
ADEOUATELY VENTILATED.
TIRES
Your motor home is equipped with truck tires. Under
normal circumstances and
with proper maintenance, you
should receive thousands of miles
of troublefree service.
For safety and maximum tire life, proper inflation
pressure
must be maintained. Motor home stability is
also affected significantly by tire pressure, and properly
inflated tires contributes
to overall motor home stability
and safety. The load range and maximum inflation
pressure are stamped on the tire side wall.
Keep tires
inflated
to this rated cold pressure.
WARNING: CHECK TIRE PRESSURES OFTEN.
ALWAYS CHECK PRESSURE WHEN TIRES ARE
COLD, AND DO NOT BLEED AIR OUT OF WARM
TIRES. FOLLOW THE TIRE PRESSURE INSTRUC-
TIONS
IN THE CHASSIS OPERATOR'S MANUAL.
WARNING: KEEP 1lRES PROPERLY INFLATED. A 1lRE
THAT
IS RUN LONG DISTANCES OR AT HIGH
SPEEDS WHILE SERIOUSLY UNDER-INFLATED WILL
OVERHEAT TO THE POINT WHERE THE TIRE MAY
LOSE AIR SUDDENLY AND/OR CATCH FIRE,
POSSIBLY RESUL1lNG IN DAMAGE TO THE VEHICLE
AND ITS CONTENTS AND/OR PERSONAL INJURY.
12
NOTE: CHECK THE WHEEL COVERS PERIODICALLY.
THEY COULD WORK LOOSE DURING DRIVING.
TIGHTEN WHEN NECESSARY.
TOWING
If your motor home ever needs to be towed, the only
safe and approved towing methods are either an under-
reach wheel lift device as installed on a minimum 3-ton
tow truck chassis, or a flat bed trailer.
Most tow truck operators willing and able to tow motor
homes will
be familiar with these devices.
If the motor home's rear wheels are disabled, the vehi-
cle must be transported on a flat bed trailer, or use a heavy
duty dolly under the
rear wheels and tow from the front.
Do not tow the motor home from the rear. Towing from
the
rear will cause serious overloading of the front tires
and suspension, possibly resulting in tire or front suspen-
sion failure.
The vehicle may be towed on the rear wheels with the
parking
brake released and the transmission in neutral pro-
vided a speed of 35 MPH and a distance of 50 miles
is not exceeded. If this speed or distance must be ex-
ceeded, disconnect the driveshaft or place the rear wheels
on a
dolly.
The safety of the operator and all other persons in the
vicinity of the
tow truck and the towed vehicle must be
considered at all times during a towing operation. DO NOT
ALLOW ANY PERSON TO RIDE IN THE TOWED VEHI-
CLE. Safe operating speeds depend on weather, road, traffic,
and visibility conditions, and the condition of the towed
vehicle. Avoid panic stops. Obey all state and local laws
regarding items such as warning signals, night illumination,
speed, etc.
Before towing the motor home:
• Secure any loose or protruding parts of the disabled
vehicle.
• Inspect the lift device atachment points. If these points
are damage, select other attachment points, if possible.
• Never allow anyone to go under a vehicle while it
is being lifted by towing equipment unless the disabled
vehicle is adequately supported by safety stands.
• Turn off LP gas appliances and the LP gas tank valve.
• Disconnect or turn off 12-volt electrical system.
I
\-

ON THE ROAD
MOTOR HOME LOADING
A motor home chassis (springs, wheels, tires, axles,
and frame) is designed to carry a certain maximum
load. This load includes everything; the weight of the
empty motor home itself, your belongings, fuel, fresh
water, waste water and anything else that may be
in or attached
to the motor home. The maximum load
for which the motor home is designed is called the
GROSS VEHICLE WEIGHT RATING (GVWR).
Another critical weight factor is the GROSS AXLE
WEIGHT RATING (GAWR). This is the maximum
weight a specific axle is designed to carry and each
axle has its own GAWR. The GAWR's do not
necessarily add up to the GVWR. Be careful, neither
the axle loads nor
the vehicle loads must ever ex-
ceed their respective weight ratings.
In addition to knowing the overall weight that can
be safely loaded in or attached to the motor home,
you must know how to distribute the weight so that
correct amounts of weight are placed on the axles.
The allowable carrying capacity of the motor home
is found by weighing the motor home empty, and sub-
tracting
this weight from the GVWR.
CARRYING CAPACITY
During the design and development of our motor
homes, the number and size of storage compartments,
the liquid tank capacities and number of belted seating
,positions are maximized
for value and convenience.
If the motor home operator fills all liquid tanks to
'capacity, fills all storage compartments and cupboards
!to maximum volume and fills all available seating posi-
,tions
with passengers, the motor home will probably
'be overloaded. According
to National Highway Traf-
'fic Safety Administration figures, an average vehicle
!occupant weighs 150 pounds, each gallon of gasoline
weights six pounds (6.0 Ibs.) and each gallon of water
'weights over
eight pounds (8.3 Ibs.).
: The operator is responsible
for analyzing the con-
ditions in which the motor home will be utilized for
':each trip. The number of passengers and placement
of cargo will affect the amount of water and cargo
ithat you can carry (See Loading Tips).
For conve-
:nience, the passenger capacity for camping use and
~he passenger capacity for day use are shown on a
'permanent label in
the driver's area or adjacent to
!the main entry door. The smaller passenger capacity
,for camping provides reasonable cargo capacity for
~rips taking more than one day. The larger passenger
,capacity
for day use provides less cargo capacity for
trips or acitivites not involving overnight stays. It may
be necessary to reduce the amount of water carried
and unload some cargo items normally carried
for
camping in order to provide carrying capacity for the
additional day use passengers.
13
The number of safety belted seating locations may
be greater than
the number of passengers permitted
by
the label. These extra seating locations, if provid-
ed, are to permit a choice of seats while traveling.
It is not safe to exceed the labeled passenger capacity
unless
the axle loadings and total weight are check-
ed against their ratings on a public scale.
Thoughtful consideration of the weight placed in
the
motor home can yield important benefits:
*
*
*
•
maximum flexibility in the use of the seating
and liberal storage facilities provided in the
motor home;
operation
without unsafe loading;
improved handling characteristics and ride
comfort;
better fuel mileage and reduced tire wear.
NOTE: CARRYING CAPACITIES OF YOUR
MOTOR HOME ARE SPECIFIED ON A LABEL AF-
FIXED
TO THE INSIDE OF A WARDROBE DOOR.
THE LABEL INCLUDES ALL FACTORY INSTALL-
ED OPTIONS. IF OTHER EQUIPMENT SUCH AS
LEVELING JACKS, AWNINGS, ROOF PODS,
ETC" ARE INSTALLED AFTER THE MOTOR
HOME
LEAVES THE FACTORY, THE WEIGHT OF
THESE ITEMS MUST BE SUBTRACTED FROM
THE TOTAL OF THE PASSENGER AND CARGO
CARRYING CAPACITIES. IF YOU
TOW A
TRAILER, THE TONGUE WEIGHT OF THE
TRAILER MUST BE SUBTRACTED FROM THE
TOTAL OF THE PASSENGER AND CARGO CAR-
RYING CAPACITIES.
DETERMINING AND DISTRIBUTING
YOUR MOTOR HOME LOAD
The Gross Vehicle Weight Rating (GVWR) and the
Gross Axle Weight Rating (GAWR)
for your motor
home are shown on the certification tag posted on
the driver's door or in the driver's compartment.
Remember, these ratings are for a fully loaded vehi-
cle.
You must compare the GVWR to the loaded
weight of your motor home. If the loaded weight of
your motor home exceeds the GVWR, the motor home
is overloaded and you'll have
to remove items to bring
the weight down to or below the GVWR. If the load-
ed axle weight on any axle exceeds the GAWR, the
axle is overloaded and you'll have to redistribute cargo
to bring the weight down to or below the GAWR.
Weighing Your Loaded Motor Home
1. Drive the front wheels onto the scale platform
and take a reading. This is
the front Gross Axle
Weight. (Reading 1).

2.
3.
Drive the entire vehicle (both axles) onto the
scale and take a reading. This is the Gross Vehi-
cle
Weight (Reading 2).
Drive
forward until only the rear axle is on the
platform and take a reading. This reading is the
rear Gross Axle Weight (Reading 3).
4. Compare reading 2
with the GVWR Gross Vehi-
cle Weight Rating)
of your vehicle. This rating
is located on
the certification tag. If the reading
exceeds
the GVWR rating, you will have to
reduce the total vehicle load.
5. If reading 2 is less than the GVWR of your vehi-
cle, check readings 1 and 3 to verify that each
is less
than the GAWR on the certification tag.
If either exceeds the GAWR for the axle,
redistribute enough
of the load to ensure that
loads on the front and rear axles are within the
required limit.
Periodically reweigh your motor home. Different
traveling configurations may change your loading and
weight pattern.
WARNING: DO NOT EXCEED THE RATED LOAD
OF THE MOTOR HOME, OR THE RATED LOAD
OF ANY AXLE. EXCEEDING THE GAWR OR
GVWR OF YOUR MOTOR HOME CAN CAUSE
14
UNDESIRABLE HANDLING CHARACTERISTICS
AND MAY CREATE A SAFETY HAZARD.
Weighing Your Loaded Motor Home
(Tag-Axle Models)
The following weighing procedure will help you
determine
whether your loaded motor home (com-
plete
with cargo, fluids, passengers, and driver) is
within GAWR and GVWR limits. When you arrive at
the weigh station, the attendant will guide you
through the correct positioning of the motor home
on the scales. Generally, the sequence is as follows:
1. Drive the entire vehicle (all axles) onto the scale
and take a reading. This is
the Gross Vehicle
Weight. (Reading 1.)
2.
Drive the vehicle forward until the front wheels
just clear the scale pad. This is the load on the
drive and tag axles (Reading 2).