Storyteller Overland MODE 2022 User manual
We’re all about
great people
and good vibes!
Welcome to
MODElife!
Safe
Simple
Fun
Flexible
Rugged
& Ready to Go
at all times!
iii
iii
We know you have a lot of options available to you in the Class B RV space these
days, so we are grateful you chose the Storyteller Overland MODE adventure van
as your preferred getaway vehicle for a more adventurous life out on the open
road and beyond!
Before we discuss the key features and functions of your new van, let’s talk a little
bit about the Core Values that drive the design, engineering, craftsmanship, and
overall experience of the MODE.
Our approach throughout the entire process of creating and manufacturing the
MODE has been to deliver you an innovative, inspiring, adventure-ready vehicle
that is . . . Safe, Simple, Fun, Flexible, Rugged, and Ready-to-Go at all times!
MENU
Welcome to MODElife
iv
SAFE
You and your passengers can rest in the knowledge that
your MODE has been designed and engineered with
onboard power, mechanical, and seating solutions which
are fully tested and compliant with all relevant FMVSS,
DOT, NHTSA safety regulations. And you can also be
assured that your MODE has been manufactured in
accordance with the best practices for our industry to meet
or exceed the rigorous RVIA certication and related OEM
body builder standards.
SIMPLE
Your MODE features an uncomplicated, uncluttered,
intuitive design that makes it easy for you and your crew
to get into whatever MODE of travel, camping, exploring,
you are going for, without all the hassle and complexity
associated with conventional RVs or camper vans.
FUN
Your MODE is designed for increased functionality using
a number of additional features to allow you to have the
ultimate experience.
FLEXIBLE
The MODE is not a “one-trick pony”! We know our
customers have demanding lives and they need their
adventure vehicle to rise to the challenges that come
along with being a daily driver, a weekend warrior, and a
long-range traveler. Whether you are road tripping across
the country with your family, camping off-grid with your
crew, or just ying solo for a quick “urban adventuring”
store run across town, the MODE is meant to be your
getaway vehicle of choice to help you ex between
all aspects of a life fully lived.
RUGGED
We know life on the open road and beyond can get a
little messy. That’s why we build our MODEs only with the
highest quality components and materials to ensure that
each of these elements will fully withstand the rigors of
active use for years to come. The M-Power automotive-
grade Energy Storage System (powered by Volta) can
keep you off-grid for longer. And the thoughtful design,
quality, craftsmanship, and resilient materials incorporated
throughout every aspect of your vehicle can endure just
about anything you can put it through.
Welcome to MODElife vv
READYTOGO
And nally, we feel your MODE
should be ready to perform and
keep its promise on a moment’s
notice. So, we have made every
effort to ensure all of the onboard
systems and components are easy to
maintain and readily serviceable by
qualied technicians. Furthermore,
we have a stellar nationwide dealer
sales and service network, combined
with a dedicated, internal after-sales
support system to help in the eld
should you need assistance while
traveling.
So there you have it!
These are the Core Values that drive our thinking in the development
of each and every aspect of your MODE. We are grateful for the opportunity
to serve you and your crew, and we look forward to seeing you...
“Live Free–Explore Endlessly–Tell Better Stories” out on the open road and beyond!
Cheers to the road ahead!
and your Storyteller Overland / MODElife family
vivi Table of Contents
INTRODUCTION .................................... 1
About This User Guide.................................2
Safety Messages .....................................2
Pre-Delivery Inspection ................................ 3
Before Driving ....................................... 3
Service & Assistance ..................................3
Reporting of Safety Defects.............................3
Occupant & Cargo-Carrying Capacity .....................4
Specications & Capacities .............................5
Vehicle Certication Label ..............................6
Vehicle Certication Data Explanation .................6
DRIVING YOUR MODE.............................. 7
Seat Belts ..........................................8
Child Restraints ......................................8
Front Seats .........................................8
Factory Dash Climate Controls ..........................9
Control Panels & Functions.............................9
Infotainment Systems & Driver Assist Features ..............9
Loading the MODE .................................. 10
Weighing the MODE................................. 10
Finding a Scale .................................. 10
Weighing Procedure .............................. 10
Front Axle Alignment .................................11
Towing With the MODE ...............................11
Hitch Assembly ......................................11
Tires ..............................................11
Spare Tire ...................................... 12
Emergencies on the Road............................. 12
Recovery Towing ................................. 12
Jump-Starting . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 12
Flat Tire on Moving Vehicle......................... 13
Changing a Flat Tire .............................. 13
Carbon Monoxide Warnings ........................... 14
Vehicle Maintenance ................................. 14
M-POWER™ ENERGY STORAGE SYSTEM ........ 15
Electrical Cautions .................................... 16
12-Volt System & Components .......................... 16
12-Volt Protection.................................. 17
58-Volt System & Components .......................... 17
110-Volt System & Components / Inverter.................. 17
110-Volt Breakers .................................. 18
GFCI Circuits....................................... 18
Chassis Battery ..................................... 18
Operating the M-Power ESS ........................... 19
Turning On the M-Power ESS ....................... 19
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Turning Off the M-Power ESS ....................... 19
Checking M-Power ESS Levels ...................... 19
Charging ....................................... 19
1. Charging Via Shore Power ......................20
Adjusting the Shore Power Charge Rate ..........20
2. Charging Via Auxiliary Alternator................. 21
3. Charging Via Solar Panels ...................... 21
Recovery from Zero State of Charge (SOC)............. 21
Zero SOC Recovery Procedure: Option 1 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 21
Zero SOC Recovery Procedure: Option 2 .............. 21
Storing the M-Power ESS ............................. 21
Storage Options & Procedures ..................... 22
Option 1: With Shore Power Connected............... 22
Option 2: Without Shore Power Connected . . . . . . . . . . . . 22
M-Power ESS Service & Maintenance .................... 23
M-Power Troubleshooting............................. 23
Volta Screen Indicators ............................ 23
Power Button Will Not Illuminate ....................24
Power Button Illuminated—No 12V Power .............24
Power Button Illuminated—No 110V Power ............24
M-Power System Cold Weather Management & Storage .....24
Unmonitored Cold-Weather Storage.................. 25
Warming the M-Power System
from Below-Freezing Temperatures................... 25
Warming with Shore Power ......................... 25
Warming with M-Power & Inverter ................... 26
MODE COM SCREEN............................... 26
Interior & Awning Lighting ............................ 27
Presets & Chill Mode.............................. 27
Cabin Climate Control System .........................28
Magic Climate...................................28
Air Conditioner .....................................28
Air Conditioner Filters .............................29
Vent / Exhaust Fan ..................................29
Heating ...........................................29
Water System Controls ...............................29
Tank Levels Monitoring ...............................30
MODE COM Screen Troubleshooting ....................30
INTERIOR FIXTURES/FEATURES .................30
Interior & Awning Lighting Switches ..................... 31
Heating System..................................... 31
Furnace ........................................ 31
Furnace Diagnostics/Troubleshooting ............... 32
Using Engine Heat ...............................34
Appliances ........................................34
Refrigerator .....................................34
Basic Refrigerator Operation ......................34
viiiviii Table of Contents
Defrosting....................................34
Cooktop ....................................... 35
Microwave...................................... 35
Sleeping & Seating Systems ........................... 35
Dreamweaver™ Bed System / Convertible Work Surface .. 36
Setting Up the Dreamweaver Bed................... 36
Setting Up the Dreamweaver Work Surface............36
GrooveLounge™.................................36
Orienting the GrooveLounge for Sleeping ............. 37
Dinette Table.................................... 37
Care of Interior Surfaces ..............................38
Plastics ........................................38
Woven Fabric-Covered Walls .......................38
Rear Bed Cushions ...............................38
Headliner & Lower Wall Vinyl .......................39
GrooveLounge Covers ............................ 39
Cabinet & Galley Laminates ........................39
Solid Surface Countertop Material ................... 39
Flooring........................................40
Smoke & Carbon Monoxide Alarm ...................40
Removing Cargo Area Cabinets / L-Track Slide Studs........40
EXTERIOR FIXTURES/FEATURES ................43
Awning ...........................................44
Extending the Awning.............................44
Retracting the Awning.............................44
Operating the Awning Lights .......................45
MODE COM Screen . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 45
Galley Face Button .............................45
Fold-Out Exterior Table...............................45
Roof Rack & Ladder .................................45
Auxiliary Power Circuit ...............................46
Exterior Care .......................................46
Seals & Sealants .................................46
Undercarriage ................................... 47
Fiberglass ...................................... 47
Exterior Finish ...................................48
Washing .....................................48
Polishing & Waxing .............................48
PLUMBING/WATER SYSTEMS.....................49
Water Control Panel .................................50
Freshwater Systems..................................50
Water Pressure Regulator ........................50
Water Filter ..................................50
Connecting To / Using City Water................... 51
Disconnecting From City Water .................... 51
Freshwater Tank ................................. 51
Filling the Freshwater Tank ....................... 51
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City Water Method ............................. 51
Siphon Port Method ............................ 52
Water Pump . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 52
Water Pump Controls ................................53
Water Pump Operation ...............................53
Priming Water Lines ............................ 53
Hot Water .........................................54
Water Fixtures ......................................54
Galley Sink / Macerator Pump.......................54
Halo Shower™ .................................. 55
Drain Blockages .................................56
Outdoor Shower . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 56
Draining Water Systems ..............................56
Freshwater Systems...............................56
Gray Water Tank ................................. 57
Tank Draining................................. 57
Tank Monitoring ...............................58
Portable Toilet......................................58
Freshwater Systems Care .............................58
Servicing Water Pump Strainer ......................58
Sanitizing Freshwater Systems.......................58
Winterizing Freshwater Systems .....................60
Plumbing System ..............................60
EVERYTHING ELSE….............................. 61
Preparing the MODE for Storage .......................62
Removing the MODE from Storage .....................62
In the Event of an Accident............................63
Warranties & Coverage ...............................63
Disclaimer/Limitation of Liability ........................64
Miscellaneous ......................................64
Pinch Hazards ...................................64
Formaldehyde Information .........................64
Mold ..........................................65
Anything Else? ..................................65
BEAST/STEALTH EQUIPMENT…..................66
Tenzing Brushguard.................................. 67
Auxiliary Lighting System ............................. 67
Ride Improvement Package ........................... 67
Beast MODE Rims...................................68
Onboard Air .......................................68
Owl Van Sherpa and Tire Carrier........................68
PowerStation.......................................69
MODE Maintenance Chart ........................70
2
Introduction – Section 1 2
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Welcome to the family of Storyteller Overland owners!
Before you begin your travels, please take some time
to get to know your MODE’s features and some of the
tips and tricks provided in this User Guide.
About This User Guide
This User Guide has information on how to operate and care
for your MODE, as well as general safety information to help
you have the best experience possible.
NOTE: This User Guide is general in its coverage of the vehicle
components and systems. Some of the exact equipment
or functions may have been changed due to continuous
product improvement. Your vehicle may dier slightly from
the information included herein. Descriptions, images, and
specications were correct at the time of publication, but
Storyteller Overland reserves the right to make changes, without
notice, and without obligation to install the same products
previously manufactured.
If you have a Classic, Stealth, or Beast MODE, it was built on
a Mercedes-Benz® Sprinter chassis. If you have a MODE LT,
it was built on a Ford® Transit chassis. You will nd
references throughout this User Guide to the vehicle chassis
as well as the Operating Instructions—either Sprinter or
Transit, depending upon which MODE you have. Please
refer to the Operating Instructions for information regarding
the operation, safety, and maintenance of the original
vehicle chassis.
In addition to this User Guide and the vehicle’s Operating
Instructions, your MODE came with manufacturers’ user
manuals for various appliances and systems in your RV.
Many of these systems are covered in this User Guide,
but some information may only be found in the individual
manufacturer’s manuals. Please keep these documents
handy should you have questions; most are also available
on the manufacturer’s websites.
Safety Messages
This User Guide alerts you to common safety or vehicle
hazards using the two following designations:
Indicates a hazard that may endanger your health
or life, or the health or life of others
Section 1 – Introduction
3
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Indicates a risk which may lead to minor
injury and/or your vehicle being damaged
CAUTION
Pre-Delivery Inspection
Storyteller Overland takes pride in the quality of the products
we build. We inspect every vehicle closely before shipping.
Your dealer is responsible for completing a comprehensive
pre-delivery inspection and correcting any issues with the
chassis or RV components prior to delivery.
Before Driving
Familiarize yourself with all local and state laws as different
areas may have laws that apply to your RV but which vary
between regions.
Service & Assistance
We are committed to our customers well after the purchase
of their vehicle. Should you need service or technical
assistance, please reach out at StorytellerOverland.com
under Customer Support for the fastest response, or call
1-888-999-7422. We will gladly help you get back on the
road as quickly as possible.
Reporting of Safety Defects
At Storyteller Overland, we strive to produce safe and reliable
vehicles. If you feel there is a safety defect that could result
in a crash, injury, or death, you should immediately contact
the National Highway Trafc Safety Administration (NHTSA),
as well as Storyteller Overland. If the NHTSA receives similar
reports, they may choose to open an investigation and/or
issue a safety recall and campaign.
To contact the NHTSA:
Call the Vehicle Safety Hotline toll-free at
1-888-327-4236 (TTY 1-800-424-9153); go to
www.safecar.gov; or write to Administrator, NHTSA,
1200 New Jersey Avenue S.E., Washington, D.C. 20590.
4
Introduction – Section 1 4
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To contact Storyteller Overland:
Call 1-888-999-7422, or, contact us via our website:
StorytellerOverland.com.
Occupant & Cargo-Carrying Capacity
An Occupant & Cargo-Carrying Capacity label is found in
the passenger door area and shows the maximum weight
capacity of the vehicle for all passengers and cargo, as well
as the number of seat-belted riding positions.
Water and trailer tongue weight count as cargo and
factor into your available cargo weight. The weight of
a full load of water for the vehicle is provided on the
label. Failure to take these weights into consideration
can result in overloading the vehicle and lead to
compromised functionality and handling.
CAUTION
A new label with correct occupant and cargo-carrying
capacities will be afxed to the vehicle if accessories
exceeding 100 lbs. were added after vehicle certication
and before the vehicle has been sold at retail.
MOTOR HOME OCCUPANT AND CARGO CARRYING CAPACITY VIN:
THE COMBINED WEIGHT OF OCCUPANTS SAFETY BELT EQUIPPED
AND CARGO SHOULD NEVER EXCEED: SEATING CAPACITY
______ OR __________ CAUTION: __
A FULL LOAD OF WATER EQUALS ____ OR ____ OF CARGO @ 1KG/L (8.3 LB/GAL)
AND THE TONGUE WEIGHT OF A TOWED TRALIER COUNTS AS CARGO.
5
1. Measured to top of tallest standard feature;
actual height may vary.
2. Based on measurements prior to tank
installation; slight variations are normal.
3. Actual towing capacity depends
on particular loading and towing
circumstances, including GVWR, GAWR,
GCWR, and adequate trailer brakes.
(Refer to your vehicle’s Operating
Instructions for further towing information.)
All information is based upon
the most recent data available.
Visit StorytellerOverland.com
for the most current product
information.
Specications & Capacities
CHASSIS MERCEDES-BENZ SPRINTER FORD TRANSIT
Length 19’5” 19’4”
Exterior height110’0” 10’3”
Exterior width 7’8” 8’2”
Awning width 10’ 10’
Awning extension maximum 7’ 7’
Interior height 6’3” 6’5”
Interior width 6’6” 6’5”
Freshwater tank capacity221 gal 21 gal
Gray water tank capacity224 gal 24 gal
Portable toilet capacity 2.6 gal 2.6 gal
Wheelbase 144” 148”
GVWR 9,050 lbs 9,500 lbs
GAWR – Front 4,410 lbs 4,630 lbs
GAWR – Rear 5,360 lbs 5,750 lbs
GCWR313,930 lbs 12,600 lbs
Fuel capacity 24.5 gal 31 gal
Section 1 – Introduction
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66
Vehicle Certication Label
This label is found in the driver door area
and contains the Vehicle Identication
Number (VIN) label as well as essential
vehicle information.
MANUFACTURED BY: INCOMPLETE VEHICLE MANUFACTURED BY
STORYTELLER OVERLAND
LLC. GWR:
GAWR SUITABLE TIRE AND WHEEL COLD INFLATION PRESSURE
FRONT: ______ ______ ______ ______ ______ ______
REAR: ______ ______ ______ ______ ______ ______
THIS VEHICLE HAS BEEN COMPLETED IN ACCORDANCE WITH THE PRIOR MANUFACTURER’S IVD,
WHERE APPLICABLE. THIS VEHICLE CONFORMS TO ALL APPLICABLE FEDERAL MOTOR VEHICLE
SAFETY STANDARDS IN EFFECT ON THE DATE OF MANUFACTURE SHOWN ABOVE.
SERIAL NO.: __________ VIN: __________ TYPE: _____ COLOR: _____
1 2
3 5 6 8
4 5 6 8
10 7 9
Vehicle Certification Data Explanation
Serial number
1 Date of completed alterations by Storyteller Overland
2 Gross Vehicle Weight Rating
3 Gross Front Axle Weight Rating
4 Gross Rear Axle Weight Rating
5 Specied tire size for rating
6 Specied wheel size for rating
7 Vehicle Identication Number (VIN)
8 Tire pressure rating
9 NHTSA classication
10
Introduction – Section 1
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8
Driving Your Mode – Section 2 8
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See your vehicle’s Operating Instructions for information
on Sprinter- or Transit-specic items such as: driving
controls, instrumentation, cruise control, climate controls,
wipers, lights, and other chassis-related features.
Seat Belts
All seating positions in your RV have seat belts. While the
vehicle is moving, passengers should only use these seats,
and all seats should be locked in the travel position.
Pregnant women should never place the shoulder belt
behind their back or under their arm. The lap belt should be
adjusted across the hips/pelvis and below the belly, and the
shoulder belt should be across the chest (between breasts)
and away from the neck.
NOTE: Aer any serious accident, all seat belts in use during the
accident must be inspected and, if necessary, replaced. (Also,
see In the Event of an Accident at p. 6of this User Guide.)
Child Restraints
The proper use of child restraints is critical for the safe
transport of children in your vehicle. Child restraints should
always be installed properly according to the manufacturer’s
instructions. Incorrect installation or use increases the risk of
injury to a child in the event of an accident or sudden maneuver.
Seats must be in the full upright position when child
restraints are used and the vehicle is in motion.
The GrooveLounge bench seat can be used with child restraint
systems designed for lap-shoulder style seat belts if you have a
locking clip.
NOTE: The GrooveLounge bench seat does NOT have a
ratcheting style retractor, but comes from the factory with
a child seat locking clip.
Front Seats
The front seats of your RV are adjustable in various ways,
including to face the rear of the vehicle. When swiveled to
face the rear, the driver seat must be adjusted all the way
back toward the steering wheel to clear the GrooveLounge
(when extended).
When the vehicle is in motion, the driver and passenger seat
must be locked in the forward position.
Section 2 – Driving Your Mode
9
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See your vehicle’s Operating Instructions for more information
on front seat adjustments.
Factory Dash Climate Controls
Your MODE’s dash climate controls are designed to heat and
cool the front cabin area only, not the entire cabin. See your
vehicle’s Operating Instructions for details regarding dash
A/C, heat, and defrost functions.
For details regarding the MODE’s heating and cooling
systems for the cabin, see Cabin Climate Control System
at p. 8 of this User Guide.
Damage to interior door panels may result if seats
are swiveled toward the doors. Do not turn driver
seat counterclockwise, and do not turn passenger
seat clockwise.
CAUTION
Control Panels & Functions
The MODE has ve locations of controls (identied below).
✦
M-Power ESS / Volta Screen: located on the wall
behind the Sprinter driver seat / Ford passenger
seat, and to the right of the Volta button
✦
MODE COM Screen: located to the left of the
Volta button
✦
Galley Face: located above the refrigerator
✦
Galley Side: located below the sink
✦
Water Control Panel: located on the left (driver)
side of the rear garage area
Infotainment Systems
& Driver Assist Features
For information regarding Infotainment, radio, navigation,
cameras, external sensors, and other driver assist features,
consult the Operating Instructions.
10
Driving Your Mode – Section 2 10
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Weighing the MODE
Weigh your fully loaded MODE to determine the proper
load distribution of cargo in your vehicle. Fully loaded
is intended to include: fuel, fresh water, food, bedding,
passengers, gear, and other items you will be transporting.
Finding a Scale
Commercial truck stops, as well as some other locations,
have commercial scales you can use for a fee.
Weighing Procedure
Measure the following weights: front axle, rear axle, and
total vehicle.
To get a front axle weight, drive only the front wheels onto
the scale. To get a total vehicle weight, drive all wheels onto
the scale. To get a rear axle weight, drive the rear wheels
only on the scale.
Compare these measurements to the GVWR, and the GAWR
for the front and rear axles, found on the Vehicle Certication
label inside the driver door area.
Loading the MODE
When loading the MODE, always observe the following:
NEmpty the gray water tank to reduce vehicle weight.
NDistribute weight evenly to help vehicle handling.
NNever exceed the GVWR (Gross Vehicle Weight Rating)1
or the GAWR (Gross Axle Weight Rating)2.
NThe combined measured weight at the front wheels
plus the measured rear wheel weight should never
exceed the GVWR.
NNever exceed the GCWR (Gross Combination
Weight Rating)3.
NNever exceed the individual tire weight ratings.
1. The GVWR is the total allowable weight of the vehicle,
including passengers, cargo (including water), and
possible tongue weight of a towed trailer.
2. The GAWR is the weight the axle is rated for.
3. The GCWR is the maximum total weight of the vehicle
and anything towed.
NOTE: All of the above values specic to your vehicle can be located
on the Vehicle Certication Label in the driver door area. See Vehicle
Certication Label at p. 6 of this User Guide for more details.
Section 2 – Driving Your Mode
11
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Front Axle Alignment
Once the RV is fully loaded, have the front axle alignment
checked and, if necessary, adjusted. After that, the
alignment should be inspected periodically to help
prevent uneven tire wear.
Excessive or abnormal tire wear may indicate a worn
or misaligned suspension, an unbalanced tire, or other
problems. Alignment can also be affected by incidents
such as hitting curbs, potholes, or train tracks.
For further information regarding front axle alignment and
tire balancing, refer to the vehicle’s Operating Instructions.
Towing With the MODE
The Sprinter is rated to tow a maximum load of 5,000 lbs.
The Transit is rated to tow a maximum of 4,100 lbs. Towing
capacity may be less than the hitch rating based on the
weight of your loaded vehicle.
When towing, do not exceed the GVWR, the rear axle
GAWR, or the chassis GCWR by the combined loaded
weight of the MODE and the towed item.
Towing will affect vehicle handling, durability, and fuel
economy. Exceeding any of the listed Gross Weight
Ratings will result in unacceptable overall vehicle
performance and, potentially, danger.
CAUTION
Hitch Assembly
If a towing brake system is required, we recommend a
modulated braking device versus a surge-style system.
The actual tongue weight should never exceed the stated
hitch vertical load. This is typically dened as the tongue
weight of a towed vehicle hitch, boat trailer tongue weight,
or a receiver-mounted carrier rack.
Tires
Your MODE was delivered with wheels and tires different
from the original chassis and has a modied tire and wheel
label in the driver door area with information regarding
proper tire pressures.
Other manuals for MODE 2022
1
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