OWNERS
AIRSTREAM MANUAL
CLASSIC TRAILER
A TRAILERING GUIDE
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INTRODUCTION
manual.
CAUTION indicates a potentially hazardous situation that, if not avoided,
could result in minor or moderate injury.
Mold (See page C-8)
NOTICE used without the safety alert symbol indicates a potentially hazardous
There are mold and mold spores throughout the indoor and outdoor environment. There
is no practical way to eliminate all mold and mold spores in the indoor environment; the
way to control indoor mold growth is to control moisture.
situation that, if not avoided, could result in property damage.
NOTE: Important information regarding the maintenance of your recreational vehicle.
Towing and Weight Distribution (See page B-1)
(Optional)
Weight distribution is an important factor when loading your travel trailer. A recreational
vehicle with the cargo distributed properly will result in efficient, trouble-free towing.
Be sure to follow the instructions in this manual.
This denotes items that may be an option on all or particular models. Additionally,
some optional items can only be included during the manufacturing phase and cannot
be added.
The inclusion of optional items does not imply or suggest the availability, application
suitability, or inclusion for any specific unit.
Formaldehyde (See Chemical Sensitivity on the next page)
Important Safety Precautions
Formaldehyde is an important chemical used widely by industry to manufacture building
materials and numerous household products. It is also a by-product of combustion
and certain other natural processes. Thus, it may be present inside the trailer with
some individuals being sensitive to it. Ventilation of the unit normally reduces the
exposure to a comfortable level.
You’ll find many safety recommendations on this page and throughout this manual.
The recommendations on the next two pages are the ones we consider to be the most
important. Most are covered in depth in later sections of this manual.
Do Not Allow Passengers to Ride in the Trailer During Travel
Generator Safety
The transport of people puts their lives at risk and may be illegal. The trailer does not
have seat belts, therefore, it is not designed to carry passengers.
Do not operate the generator in an enclosed building or in a partly enclosed area such
as a garage. Nor should the generator be operated while sleeping. Be sure to follow
all instructions and warnings in this manual.
Reducing Fishtailing or Sway (See section B, B-1-B12)
Lug Nut Torquing (See page D-14)
Sway or fishtailing is the sideways action of a trailer caused by external forces.
Excessive sway of your travel trailer can lead to the rollover of the trailer and tow
vehicle resulting in serious injury or death. Be sure to follow the instructions in this
Being sure wheel mounting nuts (lug nuts) on trailer wheels are tight and properly
torqued is an important responsibility that trailer owners and users need to be familiar
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INTRODUCTION
2008 MODEL
with and practice. Inadequate and/or inappropriate wheel nut torque (tightness) is
a major reason that lug nuts loosen in service. Loose lug nuts can rapidly lead to a
wheel separation with potentially serious safety consequences. Be sure to follow the
instructions in this manual.
Chemical Sensitivity; Ventilation
Chemical Sensitivity
After you first purchase your new recreational vehicle and sometimes after it has been
closed up for an extended period of time you may notice a strong odor and chemical
sensitivity. This is not a defect in your recreational vehicle. Like your home, there
are many different products used in the construction of recreational vehicles such
as carpet, linoleum, plywood, insulation, upholstery, etc. Formaldehyde is also the
by-product of combustion and numerous household products, such as some paints,
coatings and cosmetics. However, recreational vehicles are much smaller than your
home and therefore the exchange of air inside a recreational vehicle is significantly less
than a home. These products, when new or when exposed to elevated temperatures
and/or humidity, may “off-gas” different chemicals, including formaldehyde. This off-
gassing, in combination with the minimal air exchange, may cause you to experience
irritation of the eyes, nose, and throat and sometimes headache, nausea, and a variety
of asthma-like symptoms. Elderly persons and young children, as well as anyone with
a history of asthma, allergies, or lung problems, may be more susceptible to the effects
of off-gassing.
Appliances and Equipment (See page H-1)
The appliances (stove, refrigerator, etc.) and equipment (hot water heater, furnace
generator, etc.) typically operate on Propane gas. Propane gas is flammable and is
contained under high pressure. Improper use may result in a fire and/or explosion.
Be sure to follow all instructions and warnings in this manual as well as the specific
owners’ manuals of the appliances and equipment.
Tire Safety
Properly maintained tires improve the steering, stopping, traction, and load-carrying
capability of your vehicle. Underinflated tires and overloaded vehicles are a major
cause of tire failure. Be sure to read the Tire Safety Manual Addendum included with
your owner’s packet.
Formaldehyde
Most of the attention regarding chemical off-gassing surrounds formaldehyde.
Formaldehyde is a naturally occurring substance. It is also a key industrial chemical
used in the manufacture of the numerous consumer products which we referred
to above and used in the construction of recreational vehicles. Trace levels of
formaldehyde are also released from smoking, cooking, use of soaps and detergents
such as carpet shampoos, cosmetics, and many other household products. Some
people are very sensitive to formaldehyde while others may not have any reaction to
the same levels of formaldehyde. Amounts released decrease over time.
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INTRODUCTION
Ventilation
To reduce or lessen exposure to chemicals from off-gassing it is of utmost importance
that you ventilate your recreational vehicle. Ventilation should occur frequently after
purchase and at times when the temperatures and humidity are elevated. Remember
off-gassing is accelerated by heat and humidity. Open windows, exhaust vents, and
doors. Operate ceiling and/or other fans, roof air conditioners, and furnaces and use
a fan to force stale air out and bring fresh air in. Decreasing the flow of air by sealing
the recreational vehicle increases the formaldehyde level in the indoor air. Please
also follow the recommendations contained in Chapter 2 regarding tips to avoid
condensation problems. Many of the recommendations contained in Chapter 2 will
assist in avoiding exposure to chemicals that off-gas.
Do Not Smoke
Finally, we recommend that you do not smoke inside your recreational vehicle. In
addition to causing damage to your recreational vehicle, tobacco smoke releases
formaldehyde and other toxic chemicals.
Medical Advice
If you have any questions regarding the health effects of formaldehyde, please consult
your doctor or local health department.
Warranty Exclusion
Chemical gassing is not a “Defect” in your recreational vehicle and is not covered by
the Limited Warranty. Please follow the recommendations in this manual to address
this concern.
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INTRODUCTION
2008 MODEL
NOTES
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TABLE OF CONTENTS
A. WARRANTY AND SERVICE
D. EXTERIOR
G. ELECTRICAL
Warranty
Cleaning
Battery
Warranty Explanation
Service
Chassis
Converter
Power Jack
Tires
12-Volt System & Components
TV Antenna
Reporting Safety Defects
Maintenance Schedule
Maintenance Parts & Supplies
Axle and Running Gear
Brakes
Satellite Antenna
Solar Panel
Tires
Bathroom Exhaust
Monitor Panel
B. TOWING
E. INTERIOR FURNISHINGS
AND ACCESSORIES
110-Volt System & Components
Tow Vehicles
Brakes
F. APPLIANCES
Loading
Fabric Care
Weighing
Hitching Up
Lounges & Tables
Features & Fixtures
Storage Areas
Air Conditioner
Furnace
Range/Oven
Microwave
C. CAMPING
Smoke Alarm
Gas Detector
Refrigerator
Pre-Travel Check List
Camping Safety
Fire Extinguisher
Main Door
Water Heater
Roof Vent, High Volume
Overnight Stop/Extended Stay
Slide Out Room
Exterior Windows Screens
I. SPECIFICATIONS
Leveling & Stabilizing
Hook Ups
F. PLUMBING
Winter Traveling
LP (Liquid Petroleum) Gas
Water
Drainage
Winterizing
Drain and Waste
Toilet
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WARRANTY AND SERVICE
WARRANTY COVERAGE
(4) Normal maintenance and service items, including but not limited to light bulbs,
fuses, lubricants, sealants and seals, slideout adjustments, door adjustments, and
awing tension;
Airstream, Inc. (“Airstream”) warrants that it will repair or replace defects in material
or workmanship in any components of a new Airstream trailer purchased from
an authorized Airstream dealer in the United States or Canada for a period of
twenty-four (24) months from the date the trailer is first delivered to the original retail
purchaser. In order to obtain coverage under this Limited Warranty, you must notify
an authorized Airstream dealership or Airstream of the warrantable defect no later
than ten (10) days following expiration of this Limited Warranty. Airstream’s obliga-
tion to repair or replace defective materials or workmanship is the sole obligation of
Airstream under this Limited Warranty. Airstream reserves the right to use new or
remanufactured parts of similar quality to complete any warranty work.
A
(5) After-market equipment or accessories installed on the trailer after completion of
manufacture by Airstream, or any defects or damage caused by such items;
(6) Defects or damage caused by, in whole or in part, or in any way related to:
a. Accidents, misuse, or negligence.
b. Failure to comply with the instructions set forth in any owner’s manual
provided with the trailer.
c. Alteration or modification of the trailer except such alterations or
modifications approved in writing by Airstream.
d. Acts of God or other environmental conditions, such as lightning, hail,
salt, or other chemicals in the atmosphere.
LIMITATION OF IMPLIED WARRANTIES
e. Failure to properly maintain or service the trailer, including but not limited
to the maintenance of lubricants, sealants, and seals.
IMPLIED WARRANTIES ARISING UNDER APPLICABLE LAW, IF ANY, INCLUDING
BUT NOT LIMITED TO IMPLIED WARRANTIES OF MERCHANTABILITY OR FITNESS
FOR A PARTICULAR PURPOSE, ARE HEREBY LIMITED IN DURATION TO THE
TERM OF THIS LIMITED WARRANTY. ALL OTHER WARRANTIES, EXPRESS OR
IMPLIED, ARE HEREBY DISCLAIMED BY AIRSTREAM. SINCE STATES DO NOT
ALLOW LIMITATIONS ON HOW LONG AN IMPLIED WARRANTY LASTS, SO THE
ABOVE LIMITATIONS MAY NOT APPLY TO YOU.
f. Condensation and the results of condensation including water damage
and the growth of mold or mildew. Mold and mildew are natural growths
given certain environmental conditions and are not covered by the terms of
this Limited Warranty.
g. Use of the trailer other than for temporary recreation purposes, including
but not limited to use of the trailer for residential, commercial, or rental
purposes.
h. The addition of weight to the trailer that causes the trailer’s total weight
to exceed applicable trailer weight ratings, or addition of weight causing
improper distribution of the weight of the trailer.
WHAT IS NOT COVERED BY THIS LIMITED WARRANTY
This Limited Warranty does not provide coverage for any of the following:
i. Use of an improper or unauthorized trailer hitch.
j. Failure to seek repairs in a timely manner.
(1) Tires and batteries;
k. Failure to use reasonable efforts to mitigate damage caused by defects.
(2) Any part or component of the trailer that was not manufactured or installed by
Airstream;
DISCLAIMER OF INCIDENTAL AND CONSEQUENTIAL DAMAGES
(3) Normal deterioration due to wear or exposure, including but not limited to rust and
cosmetic blemishes;
Airstream hereby disclaims any and all incidental and consequential damages arising
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WARRANTY AND SERVICE
out of or relating to the vehicle, including expenses such as transportation to
and from vehicle dealerships and Airstream repair facilities, loss of time, loss of pay,
loss of use, inconvenience, commercial loss (including lost profits), towing charges,
bus fares, vehicle rental, service call charges, gasoline expenses, incidental charges
such as telephone calls and facsimile transmissions, and expenses for lodging.
Airstream may direct you to an authorized Airstream dealer, or may request that you
bring your trailer to the Airstream factory in Jackson Center, Ohio for repairs.
A
Airstream does not control the scheduling of repairs at its authorized Airstream deal-
ers, and repairs at the Airstream factory may not be immediately available. Therefore,
you may encounter delays in scheduling repairs and/or completion of repairs. All
costs associated with transporting the trailer for any warranty service shall be the
sole responsibility of the owner.
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.
OBTAINING WARRANTY SERVICE
DEALER REPRESENTATIONS EXCLUDED
In order to obtain warranty service under this Limited Warranty, the owner must do all
of the following:
The entire Limited Warranty provided by Airstream is set forth herein. Airstream will
not be responsible for any additional representations or warranties made by any
person or entity other than Airstream, and Airstream’s obligations are solely as set
forth in the terms and conditions of this Limited Warranty.
1. Owner and dealer representative must complete, sign, and return the Customer
Performance Checkout within 10 days from delivery of the trailer;
2. Notify Airstream or one of its authorized, independent dealers, of any claimed
defect within the warranty period or 10 days thereafter;
3. Provide notification of a defect within 10 days of discovery of that defect; and
4. Promptly return the trailer to an authorized Airstream dealer or Airstream for
repairs.
WARRANTY TRANSFER
This Limited Warranty is transferable to subsequent owners for the remaining
duration of the warranty period. Transfer of this Limited Warranty is only effective
upon completion and return to Airstream of a transfer application form. Transfer
application forms are available from your dealer or Airstream’s Service Administration
Department.
If you believe a defect covered by this Limited Warranty still exists after an attempted
repair by an authorized Airstream dealer, you must contact Airstream at the following
address, specifying: (1) the complete serial number of the trailer; (2) the date of origi-
nal purchase and the date of original delivery; (3) the name of the selling dealer; and
(4) the nature of the problem and the steps or service which have been performed.
CHANGES IN DESIGN
AIRSTREAM, INC.
Airstream reserves the right to make changes in design and improvements upon its
products from time-to-time, without imposing upon itself any obligation to install
additional features in your trailer.
419 West Pike Street
P.O. Box 629
Jackson Center, Ohio 45334-0629
Attention: Owner Relations Department
THIS WARRANTY GIVES YOU SPECIFIC LEGAL RIGHTS, AND YOU MAY ALSO
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WARRANTY AND SERVICE
HAVE OTHER RIGHTS WHICH VARY FROM STATE TO STATE.
Abuse
AIRSTREAM, INC.
Lack of customer care and/or improper maintenance will result in early failure for
which Airstream cannot be held responsible.
A
419 West Pike Street
P.O. Box 629
Jackson Center, OH 45334-0629
Tele: 937-596-6111
Fax: 937-596-6539
Exposure
Not unlike a car, the steel parts of a trailer can and will rust if subjected to prolonged
exposure to moisture, salt air, or corrosive air-borne pollutants without repaint-
ing. Aluminum oxidizes when unprotected under similar conditions, and refinery
chemicals of a sulfurous nature are harmful to finishes if not washed off periodically.
Extremely hot or direct sunlight will deteriorate rubber and fade curtains and uphol-
stery. Conditions of this nature, although they may be normal for the area, are beyond
Airstream’s control and become the responsibility of the owner.
EXPLANATION OF AIRSTREAM LIMITED WARRANTY
The Airstream Limited Warranty is detailed on a Warranty Card. It is filled out by
the dealer and presented to the owner during delivery of a new unit. The Limited
Warranty must be presented to a dealer to obtain warranty service. It should be kept
in the trailer during the warranty period.
It is the responsibility of the owner to take such preventative measures as are neces-
sary to maintain the exterior caulking and sealer of your unit. It is the responsibility of
the owner to use reasonable, prudent care to prevent foreseeable secondary damage
from rain, plumbing leaks, and the natural accumulation of moisture in your unit, such
as a delaminated floor; stained upholstery, carpeting, or drapes; mold formation and
growth; furniture damage, etc. Mold is a natural growth given certain environmental
conditions and is not covered by the terms of the Limited Warranty.
EXCLUSIONS:
Normal Wear
Items such as tires, curtains, upholstery, floor coverings, window, door and vent seals
will show wear or may even wear out within the one year warranty period depending
upon the amount of usage, weather, and atmospheric conditions.
Overload
Accident
Damage due to loading, either beyond capacity or to cause improper towing
because of improper balance, is beyond Airstream’s responsibility. The Airstream
trailer is engineered to properly handle the gross vehicle load rating on the certifica-
tion label. Load distribution has a definite effect upon the towing characteristics
and attitudes of the trailer. Level hitch installations are a necessity, and very
important on a tandem axle trailer. There are limits to the amount of load that can
be safely transported depending upon speed and road conditions, and reasonable
We strongly urge our dealers and customers to inspect the trailer upon receipt of
delivery for any damage caused by accident while being delivered to the dealer, or
while it is on the dealer’s lot. Damage of this nature becomes the dealer or custom-
er’s responsibility upon acceptance of delivery, unless Airstream is notified and the
person making the delivery verifies the damage. Glass breakage, whether obviously
struck or mysterious, is always accidental and covered by most insurance policies.
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WARRANTY AND SERVICE
cause to believe these factors have been exceeded could void the Airstream war-
ranty. For additional information on the loading of your trailer, consult your Owner’s
Manual or gross vehicle weight rating plate.
also has a dealer locator on it. This list is current as of the date of this publication.
Occasionally dealerships change, or new dealers are added who may not appear on
this list. For this reason, it is suggested that you contact your local dealer from time
to time and bring your list up to date. He can also provide you with additional copies
if you need them. ALL CENTERS OPERATE ON AN APPOINTMENT BASIS FOR THE
UTMOST EFFICIENCY.
A
The Dexter axle is manufactured to a tolerance of 1-degree camber and 1/8” toe-
in. These tolerances will only change if the trailer is subjected to abuse, such as
dropping off a sharp berm, striking a curb, or hitting a deep hole in the road. Such
damage could be considered as resulting from an accident which risks are not cov-
ered under the warranty. Abnormal tire wear and/or wheel alignment resulting from
such damage is not covered under the terms of the warranty.
When you require service from the Airstream Factory Service Center, or a Certified
Dealer Service Center, please contact the service manager for an appointment, and
kindly inform him if you are unable to keep the appointment date or wish to change
it. Service may be arranged at the Factory Service Center by contacting the Service
Coordinator at: Airstream Factory Service Center, P.O. Box 629, 419 W. Pike Street,
Jackson Center, Ohio 45334-0629 Phone: 937-596-6111
Chemical Gassing
Chemical gassing is not a “Defect” in your recreational vehicle and is not covered by
the Limited Warranty. Please follow the recommendations in this manual to address
this concern.
REPORTING SAFETY DEFECTS
If you believe that your vehicle has a defect, which could cause a crash or could cause
injury or death, you should immediately inform the National Highway Traffic Safety
Administration (NHTSA) in addition to notifying Airstream, Inc.
SERVICE:
Before leaving the factory, each and every vital part of the trailer is tested for perfor-
mance. Each test is signed and certified by an inspector. After the trailer arrives on
your dealer’s lot all of these vital parts and systems are again tested. When you take
delivery of your new trailer you will receive a complete check out.
If NHTSA receives similar complaints, it may open an investigation, and if it finds that a
safety defect exists in a group of vehicles, it may order a recall and remedy campaign.
However, NHTSA cannot become involved in individual problems between you, your
dealer, or Airstream, Inc.
At that time a specified list of performance checks on your trailer equipment will be
conducted and any deficiencies you have experienced since taking delivery will be
corrected.
To contact NHTSA you may either call the Auto Safety Hotline toll-free at 1-888-
NHTSA, 400 Seventh St, S.W., Washington, D.C. 20590.
Please contact your dealer if you need service. Major service under your Airstream
Limited Warranty is available through our nationwide network of Airstream Dealer
Service Centers. An up-to-date list of Dealer Service Centers will be sent with an
Owner’s Survey shortly after your trailer is delivered. WWW.Airstream.com web site
gov.
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WARRANTY AND SERVICE
MAINTENANCE SCHEDULE
EVERY 5,000 MILES OR 90 DAYS
Exterior Door locks
Lubricate with dry graphite
WARNING: FAILURE TO MAINTAIN YOUR COACH CAN CAUSE
PREMATURE AND UNEXPECTED PARTS BREAKAGE AND/OR ERRATIC
OPERATION THAT MAY BE HAZARDOUS.
A
Exterior Hinges
Lubricate with light household oil
Lubricate with light household oil
Check bottom vent for obstructions
Coat with paraffin.
LPG Hold Down
LPG Regulator
Note: See appliance manufacturer’s literature for further information.
SUGGESTED MAINTENANCE
Main Door Striker Pocket
Wheel Lug Nuts
EVERY 1,000 MILES OR 60 DAYS
Torque forged aluminum wheels to 100 ft. lbs.
and steel wheels to 95 ft. lbs.
Escape Window
*Battery
Check operation of latches and upper hinge.
Check water level
Break Away Switch
Pull pin and lubricate with household oil
Replace pin immediately.
Smoke Alarm
Tires
Test and replace battery as required
Check tire pressure (See Specifications)
Check for loose bolts or unusual wear.
Test and record.
7-Way Plug
Spray with contact cleaner.
Hitch Ball Latch
Hitch Ball
Lubricate with non-detergent motor oil
Lubricate with hitch ball lube or wheel bearing grease.
Clean fan blades and wash filter.
Hitch
GFI Circuit Breaker
Range Exhaust Hood
Roof Vent Elevator Screws
Main Door Step
WARNING: WHEEL SEPARATION CAN OCCUR
Lubricate with light household oil
1. On first trip, tighten wheel lugs at start and at 10, 25, and 50 miles.
2. Thereafter, check wheel lugs before each trip.
Lubricate moving parts and check.
3. Following winter storage, check before beginning a trip.
4. Following excessive braking, inspect wheel lugs
* As a battery ages and becomes less efficient, the water level should be checked at
more frequent levels.
Torque forged aluminum wheels to 100 Ft. lbs. and steel wheels to 95 ft. lbs.
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WARRANTY AND SERVICE
EVERY 10, 000 MILES OR 6 MONTHS
EVERY YEAR
Brakes
Inspect, adjust or replace as necessary
Battery
Clean, neutralize and coat terminals
with petroleum jelly.
A
Wheel Bearings
Tires
Clean and repack
A-Frame, Step
LP Bottles
Seams
Wire brush and paint frame at front and rear.
Have purged by LP supplier.
Inspect and rotate
Spare Tire Carrier
Seals, Windows & Door
TV Antenna
Exterior
Lubricate moving parts.
Check and reseal exterior seams, windows,
Clean with mild detergent and coat with “Slipicone”.
Lubricate all moving parts with silicone lubricant.
Wax
lights and vents if necessary. Use Ten X or equivalent.
Hitch Coupler and Ball
Check for wear or damage. Assure all parts
operate freely. Replace any component if
worn or damaged.
Escape Window
LP Bottles
Lubricate latches with WD-40.
PARTS AND LUBRICANTS
Check tightness of center hold down rod where it
fastens to A-Frame
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WARRANTY AND SERVICE
BULBS, EXTERIOR
MAINTENANCE RECORD
FUSES
Taillight
LED
SERVICE
A
DATE
DEALER
PERFORMED
Back Up
LED
ATC 15 & 20 Amp
License Plate
Hitch Light
# 53, wedge base
# 53, wedge base
# 67
Battery Cable Fuses
(Canadian approved trailers only)
SLC 50 Amp
Clearance Light
Door Light
# 1003
Hitch Light
# 193, wedge base
#1141
Compartment Light
MISCELLANEOUS
BULBS, INTERIOR
Water Hose Gaskets
Wheel Bearing Grease
Extra Hair Pin Clips for Hitch
Grease Seals & Packed Wheel Bearings
Dry Graphite
Two-Bulb Pin Up Light
3 Arm Dinette Light
Wall Light
#1076
#921
#1076
#819
Reading & Ceiling Light
Pin Up Light
WD-40 or Equivalent Aerosol Lubricant
Oil Can with 30 Weight Non-Detergent Oil
Silicone Lubricant
#1076
Light Household Type Oil
Spray Contact Cleaner
Hitch Ball Lube (wheel bearing grease)
Sealer
WARNING: Always replace the light
bulb on an interior or exterior light fixture with
the correct bulb for that light. Failure to heed
this warning could cause fire, property damage,
personal injury, or death.
C & D-Cell Batteries
Flashlight
Rain Gear
Road Hazard Signals
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TOWING
TOWING YOUR AIRSTREAM
TOW VEHICLE EQUIPMENT
must be taken not to overload the front and rear ends of the trailer.
Disc Brakes
If you plan to buy a new vehicle to tow your trailer we suggest that you include in your
purchase the towing options offered by most vehicle manufacturers. These include
such things a heavy-duty alternator and radiator, heavy-duty springs, (See Note:)
shock absorbers, transmission cooler, heavy-duty fan and flasher unit and others,
depending upon the make of the vehicle.
The disc brake system is a proven system that includes a ventilated rotor that fits over
the hub, combined with a caliper and mounting bracket that attach to the axle end
assembly by bolting to the standard brake flange. Major automobile manufacturers
and others have used this type of rotor installation for many years. The wheel studs
are pressed into the hub only. The rotor is a loose fit on the hub, is centered by the
wheel bolts, and is retained by the wheel, which in turn is retained by the wheel nuts.
Removal of the rotor can be accomplished with little effort once the caliper has been
removed.
B
NOTICE: Be realistic when ordering heavy duty springs. Only springs heavy enough to
support your loaded vehicle (not including trailer) are necessary. Too harsh of spring
rate will only shorten the life of the tow vehicle and trailer, and will make your journeys
less enjoyable.
Safety Information
Transmissions may be manual or automatic, but an automatic transmission may
prolong your tow vehicle’s life and generally does a better job of controlling engine
loads than the average driver using a manual shift.
1. Only qualified persons who are knowledgeable of brakes and brake systems should
perform brake installation, maintenance or repair on any vehicle.
Having adequate power is very important when considering the purchase of a new
vehicle or the trailer towing capability of your present one. American manufacturers
realize more than 30% of the vehicles they sell will be used for towing some type of
trailer. The dealers are provided with guidelines to use when helping a customer decide
on a tow vehicle. The guidelines are not just determined by the power output of the
engine. The gear ratio of the differential is also a very part of the guideline.
2. Familiarize yourself with state laws regarding the operation of towed vehicles,
especially with regards to brake/braking requirements. Allow for extra stopping
distance that may be required when towing.
3. Immediately after each hook up, always test that the trailer brakes are operating
properly before attaining normal road speed.
Inspect vehicle’s hitch regularly for loose bolts or nuts, cracked welds, loose ball
mounts, worn parts, etc.
4. Make regular, periodic inspections of your trailer brakes. The inspection should
include:
a. Pads – for evidence of excessive or uneven wear.
b. Rotors – for evidence of excessive wear, scoring, excessive heat
build up, cracks, warping.
New trailerists often carry more food and other supplies than really needed. Remember
that every item you take along is one more thing to stow and adds weight to the total
load you must pull. Consolidate items in shelves, lockers, and in the refrigerator. It is
better to have one full and one empty locker, than two half empty ones. Special care
c. Actibrake Master Cylinder – proper fluid levels.
d. All bolted connections – tight
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TOWING
e. Calipers and Brake Lines – for evidence of brake fluid leak.
and your trailer braking system in general. Unlike electric drum brakes, the ActiBrake
does not receive its power through the “blue wire”. The power to the ActiBrake is
provided through a +12 volt (normally black) wire from the tow vehicle connector.
The heart of ActiBrake is the Power Max pump. It is the highest capacity pump
available on any electric-hydraulic pump actuator.
Preventive Maintenance
1. Visually check brakes before each trip. See item 4 in safety Information.
B
2. After each hook-up, always check trailer brake operation before attaining normal
driving speed.
ActiBrake is also the only electric-hydraulic actuator with the unique “Extend’ A Hold”
feature which maintains brake line pressure when the vehicle is stopped without
operating the motor. This dramatically reduces heat build-up and improves reliability
and longevity.
3. Follow manufacturer’s recommendations with regard to use of and replacement of
brake fluid.
Filling Reservoir
4. Wash down brake assembly immediately after exposure to salt water or other
corrosives.
The Actibrake Actuator pump is located in the A-Frame box on all models except the
25’ Front Bed which is located in the roadside underbelly compartment.
5. Periodically, during each trip, check hub and assemblies to make sure that they are
within normal operating ranges (130°- 175° F). Do not touch brake components, as
they may be much hotter than the hub or wheel, especially after recent braking.
Fill the reservoir with NEW, CLEAN, “DOT 3” or “DOT 4” Brake Fluid. Never re-use
brake fluid that has been salvaged or removed from another unit. Contaminated or
dirty fluid can cause system failure and/or premature wear on the system components.
DO NOT OVER FILL the reservoir. Fill within 3/4-inch of the filler opening.
Actibrake Disc Brake Actuator System
ActiBrake is part of a trailer braking system. ActiBrake is a state-of-the-art trailer brake
actuator. ActiBrake is the fastest responding, most advanced electric-hydraulic pump
actuator available.
WARNING: Use only new, clean, DOT 3 or DOT 4 brake fluid from a sealed
container. Do not fill with previously used fluid. Used fluid may absorb water or other
impurities which may cause corrosion and/or poor brake performance. This may result
in physical injury and/or property damage!
Brake Controllers
Your trailer braking system is like a chain. It is only as good as its weakest link. This is
especially true regarding tow vehicle brake controllers. There are many marginal brake
controllers on the market, and ActiBrake will only apply the level of braking indicated
by the brake controller’s “blue wire” signal. Therefore, we urge you not to economize
on a brake controller because it will only diminish the overall performance of ActiBrake
WARNING: It is critical that you verify that your breakaway system functions
properly! The breakaway battery is the trailer batteries. The breakaway switch is wired
direct to the batteries.
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TOWING
Breakaway Protection
General Operation
Coupling
The breakaway system is required to supply power to the ActiBrake system in the
event the trailer becomes uncoupled from the towing vehicle.
When coupling the trailer to the towing vehicle, always ensure the two vehicles
are properly coupled, including the safety chains and breakaway switch cable, in
accordance with the vehicle manufacturer’s instructions and trailer manufacturer’s
instructions. All coupling devices and procedures must conform to State and Federal
regulations.
Failure to maintain adequate charge in the breakaway battery will result in the
breakaway system not functioning properly. This may result in physical injury and/or
property damage in the event of a breakaway! The breakaway battery is the trailer
batteries. The breakaway switch is wired direct to the batteries.
B
In THE EVENT OF AN ACCIDENTAL SEPARATION of the tow vehicle and trailer,
the BREAKAWAY SWITCH will set and lock the trailer brakes for a sufficient length
of time to stop the trailer. The switch is activated when the wire attached to it and to
the tow vehicle pulls out the small pin in the front of the unit. THIS PIN SHOULD BE
PULLED OUT, LUBRICATED WITH LIGHT HOUSEHOLD OIL AND REPLACED EVERY
90 DAYS.
Trailer Connector - Vehicle Connector
After properly coupling the trailer to the towing vehicle, plug-in the trailer connector
to the mating connector of the towing vehicle. There are two checks to ensure proper
connection has been made.
(The first time the ActiBrake is connected to a brake controller, it is necessary to engage
the manual over-ride lever of the brake controller for a period of up to 5 seconds.
During this time, Actibrake’s active synchronization system syncs-up with your brake
controller. ActiBrake stores this information in its memory so the synchronization is
necessary only at initial set-up AND whenever the trailer gets disconnected and re-
connected to the tow vehicle.)
To prevent corrosion within the breakaway switch, pull the switch’s pin straight forward
and spray the inside of the switch through the hole with an electric contact cleaner
(such as Spra- Kleen) and reinsert the pin. A drop of light household oil on the groove
near the base of the pin will allow the pin to operate freely. WHEN THE TRAILER IS
CONNECTED TO THE TOW CAR, THE BREAKAWAY SWITCH LOOP SHOULD BE
ATTACHED TO THE PERMANENT FRAME OF YOUR HITCH. When disconnecting
trailer from tow vehicle remove wire loop from the frame. DO NOT REMOVE THE PIN
FROM THE SWITCH FOR AN EXTENDED PERIOD OF TIME BECAUSE THIS WILL
APPLY THE TRAILER BRAKES AND POSSIBLY DAMAGE THE BRAKE MAGNETS
AND RUN THE BATTERY DOWN.
The first check is visual, as many tow vehicle brake controllers have an indicator light.
This light will illuminate green if the electrical connection is correct. If the light does
not illuminate, there is a problem with the connection. SEE your tow vehicle brake
controller manual for complete details on verification of wiring continuity.
The second check requires using the manual override lever on the tow vehicle controller.
Position a second person near the ActiBrake. With the ignition switch turn on, keeping
the vehicle in Park (or not in gear with the parking brake engaged) and stationary,
move the manual override lever of the brake controller. The person near the ActiBrake
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TOWING
will hear the motor engage if the tow vehicle and trailer are properly connected. If the
ActiBrake does not function, immediately discontinue operation.
activated.
NOTE: Study all material provided with your particular brake control. If you don’t
understand the information, have the installer explain the information to you or call the
manufacturer of the controller.
Determining and Setting Proper Trailer Braking Force
Become Familiar with Braking of the Coupled Tow Vehicle and Trailer.
B
After the system installation has been verified, the operator should take the trailer to
an empty parking lot to become familiar with the operation of the braking action of the
combined tow vehicle-trailer. Each driver has different driving habits, and each vehicle
has unique braking characteristics. Each potential driver of the coupled tow vehicle
and trailer should take some time to familiarize themselves with the response and
handling of the trailer using various settings on the tow vehicle controller. Each driver
must be familiar with the operation of the tow vehicle brake controller and understand
how to make adjustments to achieve the most desirable braking force.
Brake Controller Signal Determines Trailer Brake Pressure
Trailer braking pressure is controlled by the use of a tow vehicle brake controller. This
allows the driver to select the desired brake performance for the trailer, from the driver’s
position in the towing vehicle. Increasing or decreasing the “gain” setting of the tow
vehicle brake controller, will increase or decrease the level of brake force generated by
the ActiBrake unit. Refer to brake controller manufacturer’s manual for instructions to
properly adjust the controller settings.
A BRAKE CONTROLLER installed in your tow vehicle will synchronize the trailer
brakes with your tow vehicle brakes. It is designed to apply the trailer brakes whenever
the tow vehicle brakes are applied.
ELECTRONIC CONTROLLERS are inertially activated. The controller senses
deceleration and generates an output, which reflects the inertia sensed. When you
are stationary, the controller does not apply the brakes unless the manual slide bar is
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TOWING
Which Tow vehicle Controller Is Best?
4) With the tow vehicle engine running, you must have 13.5 or greater volts on the
charge line.
IMPORTANT
5) Use a reliable DC volt meter to check the voltage between the Black, 12V Charge
line and the 12V white (ground) on your tow vehicle’s 7 way connector.
This trailer is equipped with an electric-hydraulic brake actuator. Before you plug the
trailer’s electrical connector in to your tow vehicle ensure the following:
B
WARNING: Use of an unapproved brake controller and/or operating your
brake system without proper charge line voltage (see above) may damage
your electric- hydraulic brake system which may result in loss of trailer braking.
1) Verify that an approved brake controller is properly installed in the tow vehicle, per
the brake controller manufacturer’s instructions.
2) Approved controllers are:
WARNING: A brake controller that is not grounded per brake controller
manufacturer’s installation instructions may damage your electric-hydraulic
brake system which may result in loss of trailer braking.
·
·
·
·
·
Hayes Genesis
Hayes Energize XPC
Hayes Endeavor
Hayes Energize III
Tekonsha Prodigy
For concerns or questions, call Active Technology at 515-285-0195 during normal
business hours (central time).
The list of approved controllers may change. Please contact Active Technology at
515-285-0195 during normal business hours (central time) for up to date information
on controller compatibility.
NOTE: Active Technology does not endorse the use of time-based tow vehicle
controllers with the ActiBrake system. The output of a time-based controller is not
proportional to the deceleration of the towing vehicle and therefore, when linked to
a time-based tow vehicle controller, ActiBrake will not generate proportional brake
pressure.
3) Verify that the 12-volt charge line (see diagram below) is energized.
Clearance Lights,
Black, 12V -
Clearance Lights,
Black, 12V -
Green
Green
Blank
Blank
Brown, Right
Left Turn, Red
Turn
Left Turn, Red
Brown, Right
Turn
12V, White
Blue, Brake
12V, White
Blue, Brake
7 Way Plug-Tow Vehicle End
7 Way Plug-Trailer End
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TOWING
Settings and Use of Tow vehicle Controllers
maintain brake line pressure until the tow vehicle brake pedal is released.
The settings of the tow vehicle controller are set by the driver. When properly set, the
braking force of the trailer will provide sufficient braking so the brakes of the towing
vehicle are not required to provide any braking force for the trailer. Variations in the
controller settings may be required for different road conditions and for changes in
trailer load. It is essential to maintain sufficient braking on the trailer on wet or slippery
road surfaces. More braking with the trailer will help prevent the possibility of a jack-
knife situation or prevent the trailer from swaying or pushing the towing vehicle. The
tow vehicle brake controller also allows for manual activation of the trailer brakes
independent of the tow vehicle, by using the manual override feature of the controller.
Important ! Do not remove the plastic cover of the ActiBrake. It is sealed against
moisture and other contaminant’s and to prevent tampering with internal components.
Removing this cover voids your warranty.
B
Replacement Parts
The internal components of the ActiBrake unit are not intended for field service. The
unit is sealed at the factory to prevent tampering with the internal components. The
ActiBrake warranty will be voided if the seal is broken. See your dealer for replacement
breakaway switches, batteries, filler cap or other items for your brake system.
WARNING: It is essential that each driver read and fully understand
the tow vehicle brake controller operating manual provided by the manufacturer
of the tow vehicle brake controller. Failure to fully understand the use and
operation of the tow vehicle brake controller by each driver may cause loss of
vehicle control. This may result in physical injury and/or property damage!
Important: Brake fluid can cause damage to painted surfaces. Clean up any spills
on painted surfaces immediately.
Service and Maintenance
Visual System Check
DO NOT RIDE YOUR BRAKE PEDAL!
Periodically check the complete braking system, including the brake lines and hoses,
wiring and vehicle-trailer connector plugs for damage, corrosion or leaks. Ensure
brake lines and wires are secured so they do not hang down, drag or get caught when
the trailer is in motion.
This will cause constant pressure from the ActiBrake unit to the trailer brakes, resulting
in premature wear and overheating. This may also cause damage to the ActiBrake
unit or cause damage to the internal components of the system, as well as damage to
your hydraulic brakes.
Extend’ A-Hold Feature
Make Sure The Breakaway Battery Is Fully Charged
In the event you are required to be stopped with the tow vehicle brake pedal depressed
for an extended period (and if the brake controller installed in your tow vehicle continues
to send a signal when your vehicle has stopped), the ActiBrake unit’s “Extend’ A Hold”
feature is activated. This Extend’ A Hold feature shuts the motor off after approximately
20 seconds and keeps your brake lines pressurized until you release the brake pedal
in the towing vehicle. The motor will re-start for a few seconds every 30 seconds to
Always check the breakaway battery to verify it is fully charged when coupling your
trailer for use. The breakaway battery is the trailer batteries. The breakaway switch is
wired direct to the batteries. The trailer systems monitor will show the batteries charge
status. Plug you shoreline into an exterior 110-volt service or running your tow vehicle
with the 7-way cord connected will charge your trailer batteries.
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TOWING
Failure to maintain proper charge in the breakaway battery will result in the breakaway
system not functioning properly. This may result in physical injury and/or property
damage in the event of a breakaway!
fluid may cause the ActiBrake system to malfunction, which may result in physical
injury and/or property damage!
See the Actibrake manual included with your owner’s packet for troubleshooting,
Charge Battery When Necessary
Active Technology
7600 Sand Drive
B
If battery’s charge is low, or if the trailer has been parked for a prolonged period, charge
the battery by connecting the trailer 110-volt shoreline or running the tow vehicle with
the 7-way cord connected. Use the procedure outlined above to determine if the
breakaway battery is fully charged. Always follow battery manufacturer’s maintenance
instructions.
Fort Worth, Texas 76118
817-595-9710
Testing the battery in the manner outlined above confirms that the battery is charged.
However, it does NOT confirm the brakes are functioning properly. Regular inspection,
adjustment, and maintenance of the braking system is necessary to ensure proper
brake operation.
WARNING: NEVER CRAWL UNDER YOUR TRAILER UNLESS IT IS
RESTING ON PROPERLY PLACED JACK STANDS.
Check Brake Fluid Level
Verify brake fluid level before each use. Fluid level should be between three eights and
one half inch from the top of the filler tube. Use care to prevent contamination of the
fluid with dirt, water, or other foreign material when removing the filler cap, checking
the fluid level, or when adding fluid to the reservoir.
Brake Fluid Contamination
The ActiBrake reservoir is sealed to prevent contamination of the fluid during normal
operation. Should the fluid in the reservoir become contaminated, the ActiBrake and
brake system should be flushed. This procedure should ONLY be performed by a
qualified mechanic or technician. After the system has been flushed, the reservoir
must be re-filled with new “DOT 3” or “DOT 4” brake fluid and the brake lines bled as
outlined of Page 8 of the Actibrake Owner’s Manual. The use of contaminated brake
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TOWING
NOTES
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TOWING
LOADING
• Gross Vehicular Weight Rating (GVWR): is the maximum permissible weight
of this trailer when fully loaded. It includes all weight at the trailer axle (s) and
tongue or pin.
Below is a sample of the weight information chart provided in all Airstream vehicles.
This information can be found in your vehicle on the back of the first wardrobe door on
the curbside of the vehicle about 60” up from the floor.
• Unloaded Vehicle Weight (UVW): is the weight of this trailer as manufactured
at the factory. It includes all trailer weight at the trailer axle (s) and tongue or
pin. If applicable, it also includes full generator fluids, including fuel, engine oil,
and coolants.
B
• Cargo Carrying Capacity (CCC): is equal to GVWR minus each of the
following: UVW, full fresh (potable) water weight (including water heater), and
full LP-Gas weight.
TRAILER WEIGHT INFORMATION
VIN OR SERIAL NUMBER
GVWR (GROSS VEHICULAR WEIGHT RATING) IS THE MAXIMUM WEIGHT OF THIS TRAILER
WHEN FULLY LOADED. IT INCLUDES ALL WEIGHT AT THE TRAILER AXLE(S), AND TOUGUE
OR PIN.
• Gross Axle Weight Rating (GAWR): is the value specified as the load carrying
capacity of a single axle system, as measured at the tire-ground interfaces.
UVW (UNLOADED VEHICLE WEIGHT), IS THE WEIGHT OF THIS TRAILER AS MANUFACTURED
AT THE FACTORY. IT INCLUDES ALL WEIGHT AT THE TRAILER AXLE (S) AND TOUGUE OR PIN.
IF APPLICABLE, IT ALSO INCLUDES FULL GERNERATOR FLUIDS, INCLUDING FUEL, ENGINE
OIL, AND COOLANTS.
When loading heavy objects such as tools, skillets, irons, and boxes of canned
goods, etc. keep them as low as possible - preferably on the floor. Try to hold
additional weight behind the axle to a minimum.
CCC (CARGO CARRYING CAPACITY) IS EQUAL TO GVWR MINUS EACH OF THE FOLLOWING:
UVW, FULL FRESH (POTABLE) WATER WEIGHT, (INCLUDING WATER HEATER, FULL PROPANE
WEIGHT.
POUNDS
KILOGRAMS
CARGO CARRYING CAPACITY (CCC) COMPUTATION
GVWR.............................................................................................
MINUS UVW..................................................................................
WARNING: Never add items such as generators, heavy toolboxes or
motorcycle racks to the back of the trailer. Weight behind the axle will tend to
magnify any sway that may occur when passing trucks or in gusty wind. If a
heavy generator is mounted on the rear bumper what may have been an almost
unnoticeable sway turns into a severe sway you may not he able to control.
MINUS FRESH WATER WEIGHT OF GALLONS @ 8.3 LB/GAL
MINUS PROPANE WEIGHT OF GALLONS @ 4.2 LB/GAL
*CCC FOR THIS TRAILER...........................................................
*DEALER INSTALLED EQUIPMENT WILL REDUCE CCC
CONSULT OWNER MANUAL (S) FOR SPECIFIC WEIGHING INSTRUCTIONS
AND TOWING GUIDELINES
NOTICE: Damage to your trailer caused by mounting heavy objects on the rear is
considered abuse, and is not covered by warranty.
CD-133
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TOWING
WEIGHING YOUR TRAILER
of the jack extension. Place the scales so that another round piece can be exactly two
feet from the centerline of the jack extension in the other direction. Place a 4 x 4 on the
two round pieces and screw the jack extension down on the top of the 4 x 4 until the
tongue of the trailer is supported by it. Multiply the scale reading by three. This will be
the tongue weight of your trailer. If you exceed the capacity of the bathroom scales,
increase the two-foot dimension to three or four more feet, but always multiply the
scale reading by the total number of feet between the wood and scales.
The diagram shows how to weigh the trailer on scales.
B
CAUTION: Be sure trailer is level when you read scales.
The allowable personal cargo must be distributed in your trailer in such a manner that
the Gross Axle Weight Rating is not exceeded.
To determine this it is necessary to load all of your allowable personal cargo and
variable weights. Then hitch the trailer to the tow vehicle with load equalizing hitch
properly adjusted as shown on the following pages.
Place the trailer on a scale with both axles only on the scale (see 2). If the weight on
the axles exceeds the axle system GAWR then some of the personal cargo must be
redistributed forward in order to place some of this weight on the tongue.
2 FT.
1 Ft.
Pipe
Pipe
Bathroom Scale
The tongue weight should be in between 10% - 15% of the trailer’s total weight, but
must not exceed 1,000 lbs. Some tow vehicle manufacturers may restrict the amount of
tongue load to a lower value. To determine tongue load, unhitch tow vehicle and place
the tongue hitch post on a scale. The trailer must be properly loaded as determined
above, with your allowable personal cargo and variable weights.
Wood Support
Use a scale, such as a bathroom scale, that has a lower weight limit than your tongue
load to check the tongue weight by using the following method (see illustration).
Place a piece of wood of approximately the same thickness as the bathroom scales
on the ground in line with the trailer hitch jack as shown. It should be so spaced that
a short piece of pipe or other round piece will lay exactly one foot from the centerline
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TOWING
HITCHING UP
Sway Control Device
Hitching up your trailer is something that will become almost second nature with
practice. The following section includes proper hitch load distribution. Proper training
on connecting your trailer to a tow vehicle is essential for safety. Please see your dealer
or other qualified personnel for instruction on the proper hitching of your trailer.
Although Airstream has not intruded into the hitch manufacturers field of expertise and
preformed formal testing, we find the vast majority of Airstream owners purchases
sway-control devices.
B
When passed by large trucks or when exposed to sudden crosswinds the trailer will
be “pushed” and this action will be felt in the tow vehicle. It’s our understanding the
sway control devices will reduce the amount of movement and make towing more
comfortable and add some safety.
Equalizing Hitch Load Distribution
When a trailer is hitched up properly to a tow vehicle with a load equalizing hitch,
approximately 1/3 of the trailer’s tongue weight will be on the trailer’s axles and 2/3
will be transferred to the tow vehicle, 1/3 of this weight transfer will be carried by the
front wheels and 1/3 by the rear wheels of the tow vehicle (See diagram), Thus, the tire
load of each wheel on the tow vehicle will be increased by 1/6 of the trailer’s tongue
weight. The tire air pressure of the tow vehicle should be increased to compensate for
this additional weight.
Follow the directions of the sway control manufacturer when having it installed and
using it.
NOTICE: Retract the hitch jack completely for maximum ground clearance.
Remove and stow the jack pad it in the tow vehicle’s trunk along with the leveling
jack and other gear used when stopped. NEVER TOW YOUR TRAILER WITH
THE JACK DOWN. Check that the foldaway step is up and that the main door
is completely closed and LOCKED for towing. If it is not locked the constant
vibration of travel may cause it to open with possible damage.
WARNING: The tongue weight should he approximately 10% to 14%
of the trailer’s total weight. Under no condition should it exceed the hitch rating.
Your hitch installer should provide your hitch rating information to you.
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TOWING
TOWING TIPS
slower. Ten minutes later resume normal driving.
We want every owner to be a safe and courteous driver. A few hours of towing
practice in a large empty supermarket lot will make pulling your trailer over the road
much easier. Line out two corners for left and right turns. You may also use these
corners to practice backing and parking.
WARNING: Never open a radiator cap when the tow vehicle is hot.
Check the coolant level when the vehicle is cool.
B
When going downhill in dry weather, down shift so that engine compression will
slow the whole rig down. Take dips and depressions in the road slowly and do not
resume normal driving speeds until you are sure that the trailer wheels are clear of
the dip.
After thoroughly inspecting your hitch, brakes, and tires you should be ready to tow.
Check traffic, signal that you are about to pull away, and start slowly. Look often in
your mirrors, and observe the action of the trailer, then carefully move into the proper
lane of traffic. Remember that the trailer wheels will not follow the path of the tow
vehicle wheels; therefore, WIDER TURNS ARE NECESSARY WHEN TURNING TO
THE LEFT OR TO THE RIGHT.
WARNING: On slippery pavement do not use engine drag to help
slow down as this may cause the rear wheels of the tow vehicle to skid. On icy
pavement drive slowly and if you feel the tow vehicle skidding gently apply the
trailer brakes only. This will bring the tow vehicle and trailer back into a single
line. Chains do not help trailer wheels.
The BRAKE CONTROLLER is activated when you apply the brakes of the tow
vehicle. Your tow vehicle brakes will automatically apply the trailer brakes first when
properly adjusted. This will help keep your tow vehicle and trailer in a straight line and
make you stop as if you were driving the tow vehicle alone. If swaying or swerving
should occur, briefly operating the controller separate from the vehicle brakes may
help correct the situation. Practice this maneuver on a clear highway or deserted
parking lot. Don’t wait for an emergency then grope for the controller.
When driving in mud and sand let the momentum carry the rig through. Apply power
gently and use as little as possible. Stay in the tracks of the vehicle ahead and keep
the tow vehicle in the highest possible gear. If you get stuck it is best to tow out the
entire rig together without unhitching.
When trailering you might encounter a temporary cooling system overload during
severe conditions, such as hot days when pulling on a long grade, when slowing
down after higher speed driving, or driving long idle periods in traffic jams. If the hot
indicator light comes on, or the temperature gauge indicates overheating and you
have your air conditioner turned on, turn it off. Pull over in a safe place and put on
your emergency brake. Don’t turn off the engine. Increase the engine idle speed. Lift
the engine hood and check for fluid leaks at the radiator overflow outlet. Check to
see that all drive belts are intact and the radiator fan is turning. If you have a problem
have it fixed at the next opportunity. If there is no problem the light should go off or
temperature should come down within one minute. Proceed on the highway a little
Despite the best hitch you will notice that whenever a large bus or truck overtakes
your rig the displaced air first pushes the trailer rear slightly to the right and then
affects the front. It may be necessary to steer very slightly, momentarily, toward the
bus or truck to help compensate for the sway induced by the passing-vehicle. Do not
apply the vehicle brakes, as this can tend to exaggerate the situation. You may find,
however, that briefly applying the trailer brakes with your manual control will help
eliminate sway.
On a two-lane road cars will be lining up behind you because you travel at a lower
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TOWING
speed. It is both courteous and sensible to signal, pull onto the shoulder, and let
them pass. Your trailer is designed to be towed easily at any legal speed, so if you
are not careful you may be inclined to forget it is there.
Tracking
OBSERVE THAT THE TRACKS MADE BY THE TRAILER WHEELS ARE DISTINCTLY
DIFFERENT FROM THOSE MADE BY THE TOW VEHICLE. Studying this will make it
easier for you to correct mistakes. Truck or trailer type fender or door grip rear view
mirrors are a must for maximum visibility and in most states the law requires them.
Passing
B
ON FREEWAYS OR EXPRESSWAYS try to pick the lane you want and stay in it.
Always maintain plenty of space between you and the car ahead, at least the length
of the tow vehicle plus trailer for every ten miles per hour. Remember that in order to
pass another vehicle you will need longer to accelerate. You must also allow for the
length of the trailer when returning to the right hand lane.
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TOWING
Backing Up
In BACKING UP the important thing to remember is to DO EVERYTHING SLOWLY
and to correct immediately if you see the trailer turning the wrong way. Concentrate
on the rear of the trailer. With your tow vehicle and trailer in a straight line back up
slowly and turn the bottom of the steering wheel in the direction you want the trailer
to go. Watch out the window or in the mirror until the rear of the trailer is pointing in
the desired direction. Your tow vehicle will be following the trailer in an arc. Straighten
the tow vehicle and trailer by turning the steering wheel more sharply, and then when
they are in line, straighten the steering wheel.
ALWAYS TRY TO BACK TO YOUR LEFT BECAUSE THE VISIBILITY IS MUCH
BETTER. (See Illustration) When you don’t make it on the first try it is usually much
easier to pull forward to your original position and start over.
B
If your spouse or traveling companion normally directs you when backing they should
position themselves forward of the tow vehicle so the driver can easily see them.
Their directions should always indicate to the driver the direction the rear of the trailer
should go. A little practice in a parking lot with the person giving directions can save
a lot of frustration when backing into a campsite.
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TOWING
Controlling Sway or Fishtailing
provided for your unit. Please consult your dealer regarding this equipment, as the
RV manufacturer does not provide sway control devices.
Sway or fishtailing is the sideways action of a trailer caused by external forces. It
is common for travel trailers to sway in response to strong winds or crosswinds or
when passed by or passing a semi-tractor and trailer or driving downhill.
Tongue weight – The tongue weight should be between 10% to 15% of the total
travel trailer weight. See specification section of this manual regarding the proper
weight distribution of your recreation vehicle.
B
WARNING: Excessive sway or fishtailing of your travel trailer can lead
to the rollover of the trailer and tow vehicle. Serious injury or death can occur. It is
important that you read and understand the information in this section.
Driving – This is the most important component. The tendency for the vehicle to
sway increases with speed therefore, obey all speed limits and reduce speed during
inclement weather or windy conditions.
Sway or fishtailing of your recreation vehicle can be controlled and is primarily
impacted by four factors:
Corrective measures – If sway occurs the following techniques should be used:
1. Slow down immediately, remove your foot from the accelerator. Avoid using
the tow vehicle brakes unless there is a danger of collision. Reduce speed gradu-
ally whenever possible. If you can do so safely, use the brake hand controller
(independent of the tow vehicle brakes) to gently and progressively apply the trailer
brakes. This will help to keep the vehicles aligned. Practice using the brake hand
controller on a deserted parking lot. Don’t wait until an emergency occurs before
using it. Location of the brake hand controller is important and should be made easily
accessible.
·
·
·
·
Equipment
Tongue weight
Driving
Corrective measures
Equipment – When hitched together, the trailer and the tow vehicle must be level.
The tires of both the trailer and tow vehicle should be in good condition and inflated
to the pressure recommended as noted on the exterior of the trailer and in the
owner’s manuals of the trailer and tow vehicle.
2. Steer as little as possible while maintaining control of the vehicle. Because of
natural reaction lag time, quick steering movements to counter trailer sway will actu-
ally cause increased sway and loss of control. Keep both hands on the wheel. Hold
the wheel as straight as possible until stability is regained.
Your trailer brakes should work in synchronization with your tow vehicle brakes.
Never use your tow vehicle or trailer brakes alone to stop the combined load. Your
brake controller must be set up according to the manufacturer’s specifications to
ensure proper synchronization between the tow vehicle and the trailer. Additionally,
you may have to make small adjustments occasionally to accommodate changing
loads and driving conditions.
3. Do not jam on the brakes or attempt to press on the accelerator to speed your way
out of the fishtailing. Both actions make the situation worse and could cause severe
injury or death.
4. Once the swaying is under control, stop as soon as possible. Check tire pres-
sures, cargo weight distribution and look for any signs of mechanical failure. Travel
at reduced speeds that permit full control until the problem can be identified and
corrected.
Also, we recommend a friction sway damper or hitch with built-in sway control be
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CAMPING
SUGGESTED PRE-TRAVEL CHECK LIST
Interior
Exterior
Home
1.
2.
3.
4.
5.
Turn off water pump switch.
Check battery water level.
Close windows and vents.
Lock all interior cabinet doors.
Latch refrigerator door.
1.
Disconnect and slow the electrical hookup
cord, the sewer hookup hose (flush out),
and the water hookup hose.
Turn off gas at LP tanks.
1.
2.
Leave house key with your neighbors.
Valuables and important papers should
be stored in a safe place.
2.
3.
4.
5.
3.
4.
5.
Newspaper and other deliveries
should be discontinued.
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Retract stabilizing jacks.
(Seal containers first.)
Check Hitch: It must be properly attached.
Check safety chains and breakaway
switch cable.
Ask the Post Office to hold your mail
for you.
6.
Hold down or stack securely all loose,
hard and sharp objects.
Fasten sliding and foldette doors.
Drain toilet bowl.
Arrange with the telephone company
for discontinued or “vacation service”.
Arrange care for your pets.
7.
6.
Fully retract jack. Remove and
stow jack stand or wood block.
Check clearance and stoplights.
Check lug nuts.
8.
6.
7.
9.
Turn off interior lights.
7.
Your lawn, garden and houseplants
should be cared for.
10.
11.
12.
13.
Set table in upright position.
Pull up or retract step.
8.
9.
Check tires for correct pressure.
Check that TV antenna is properly stowed.
Adjust tow vehicle mirrors.
8.
Lock all windows and doors securely.
Keep shades open for a lived in look.
Cover all food to keep out mice and insects
Eliminate all fire hazards Place matches
in a tin box or glass jar.
Lower blinds.
10.
11.
12.
Secure and lock the main door.
9.
Pull forward some 50 ft., test brakes,
and check site for forgotten objects
and cleanliness.
10.
11.
12.
13.
Store oil, gasoline and other
flammables properly.
Destroy all newspapers, magazines and
oily rags.
Notify police.
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CAMPING
Trailer Equipment and Accessories
Personal
Motoring Essentials
1.
Water hose, 5/8 in. high pressure, tasteless,
1.
2.
Tow vehicle insurance to cover you and your
family fully.
1.
2.
Display the tow vehicle and trailer
registration properly.
odorless, non-toxic, (2 -- 25 ft. sections).
“Y” connection -- water hose.
The sewer hose with clamp.
Drain cap with hose drain.
Holding tank cleaner and deodorizer.
Power cord adapter 30 --amp Capacity.
50 ft. electric cord, 12-3 wire, 30-ampere
capacity.
2.
3.
4.
5.
6.
7.
Avoiding cash. Use Travelers Checks and
credit cards.
Carry drivers license. In Canada, you’ll
need a non-residence liability insurance
card, birth certificate and/or passport.
In Mexico, you must have special
auto insurance and a passport.
Carry an extra set of the ignition
and truck keys in a separate pocket,
or in your wallet.
3.
4.
5.
6.
Confirmed reservations.
Have sunglasses for everyone.
Pack camera and film.
3.
4.
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Make a checklist of clothing for everyone,
and toilet articles
8.
25 ft. electric cord, 10-3, 30-ampere
capacity.
5.
6.
Keep an operating flashlight with
fresh batteries in the glove compartment.
Pack the trunk so that you can reach
the tools and spare tire without
completely unpacking.
9.
Woodblocks for leveling.
Wheel chocks.
10.
11.
12.
13.
14.
15.
Hydraulic jacks.
Cross type lug wrench.
Torque Wrench
7.
8.
Keep sharp or hard articles securely packed
wherever they may be.
Quality tire gauge.
Emergency road warning triangle.
Do not packed things in the passenger
seating area. You need the maximum
space for comfort.
9.
Wear easy wash, drip-dry traveling clothes.
Do not make your vacation trips a mileage
marathon. Stop and relax frequently.
Carry a first-aid kit.
10.
11.
12.
Carry your pets dish, food, leash, and
health and registration papers.
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CAMPING
SAFETY
WARNING:
As always, safety should be one of your top priorities. Make sure you, and everyone
traveling with you, can operate the main door and emergency exit window rapidly
without light. Contemplate other means of escape in case the designated exits are
blocked.
Don’t smoke in bed.
Keep matches out of reach of small children!
Don’t clean with flammable material!
Keep flammable material away from open flame!
WARNING: The escape window(s) can be identified by their red release
handles. Lifting up both latches, then turning the latches toward the center
releases the escape window. Remove the screen. A loop is provided in the
SCREEN RETAINING SPLINE so it can be rapidly removed. Push out on the glass
and it will swing clear. The window operation should be checked each trip and
the latches lubricated with WD-40 or equivalent every six months.
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We have all heard these warnings many times, but they are still among the leading
causes of fires.
WARNING: At each campsite make sure you have not parked in such
a manner as to block the operation of the escape window by being too close to
trees, fences or other impediments. Scenic views are one reason for traveling,
but don’t park so the beautiful lake or steep cliff is just outside your escape
window.
Other safety information on the LPG system of your trailer is located in the plumbing
section of this manual.
WARNING: Read the directions carefully on the fire extinguisher. If
there is any doubt on the operation, you and your family should practice, then
replace or recharge the extinguisher. You will find your local fire department will
be happy to assist you and answer any questions.
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CAMPING
OVERNIGHT STOP-EXTENDED STAY
Making a long trip in your Airstream is not very different from making a weekend
excursion. Since everything you need is right at hand, you are at home wherever you
go. When packing for an extended trip take everything you need, but only what you
need.
Airstream owners have parked virtually every placing imaginable from filling stations to
farmlands. In time you’ll develop a knack for spying wonderful little roadside locations
by turning off the main highway and exploring. There are many modern parks including
State, County and Federal parks with good facilities where you might obtain hookups
of electrical, water and sewer connections. Directories are published which described
in detail these parks and tell what is available in the way of services and hookups.
WARNING: Do not park in a manner that would prevent the escape
windows from opening.
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Try to pick as level a parking spot as possible. Stabilizing jacks or blocks probably
won’t be required for an overnight stay unless you extend a slide out room. However,
if you put the jack pad on the hitch jack and run the hitch jack down to take the weight
off the cars springs it will provide some stability. If you must parked on a slope, PARK
FACING DOWNHILL. It is easier to level the trailer this way.
On overnight or weekend trips chances are you will not use up the capacity of the
sewage holding tank, deplete the water supply, or rundown the battery which supplies
the 12 volt current.
On a longer trip, when you have stayed where sewer connections and utility hookups
were not available, it will be necessary for you to stop from time to time to dispose of
the waste in the holding tank and replenish the water supply. Many gas stations (chain
and individually owned) have installed sanitary dumping stations for just this purpose.
Booklets are available which lists these dumping stations.
NOTICE: Your trailer is not designed, nor intended, for permanent housing. Use of this
product for long term or permanent occupancy may lead to premature deterioration
of structure, interior finishes, fabrics, carpeting, and drapes. Damage or deterioration
due to long-term occupancy may not be considered normal, and may under the terms
of the warranty constitute misuse, abuse, or normal wear.
When stopping for the night, your Airstream is built to be safely parked in any spot that
is relatively level and where the ground his firm. Your facilities are with you. You are
self-contained. Unless the tow vehicle is needed for transportation, it is not necessary
to unhitch.
All you need to do to enjoy the self-contained luxury of your Airstream is to turn on the
LP gas and light any appliances with pilots.
Before moving on, check your campsite both for cleanliness and also to be sure you
haven’t left anything behind. Turn off the gas supply and make sure everything is
properly stowed. Use your PRE-TRAVEL CHECK LIST and you are ready for more
travel adventure.
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CAMPING
Leveling and Stabilizing
NOTICE: Optional STABILIZING JACKS, whether manual or power, should only be
used to stabilize trailer.
When you plan to stay in the same place for several days, weeks or months, you will
want your trailer to be as level and steady as possible. Check the attitude with a small
spirit level set on the inside work counter or the trailer hitch “A-Frame”. (See Diagram
Below) If a correction is necessary then YOU MUST LEVEL FROM SIDE TO SIDE
FIRST This can he done easily by backing the trailer up one or more 2” x 6” boards.
(See Diagram) We do not recommend placing tires in a hole for leveling.
WARNING: Whenever the trailer must be lifted with a jack, as when
changing a tire or leveling on very rough terrain, ALWAYS PLACE THE LIFTING
JACK UNDER THE MAIN FRAME RAIL. A label is provided to indicate the proper
position for the jack. NEVER USE STABILIZING JACKS TO LIFT THE TRAILER.
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LEVEL FROM FRONT TO REAR by disconnecting the hitch from the tow vehicle,
putting the jack pad under the hitch jack and adjusting the jack up or down until you
are level. Block or chock the wheels to keep the trailer from rolling. Use STABILIZING
JACKS at all four corners as shown in the diagram to eliminate the natural spring
action of the axles.
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CAMPING
HOOK UPS
City Water
Hookup
The exterior CABLE TV and TELEPHONE hookups are
located in the power cord storage compartment. The
interior telephone jack will be located in the bedroom
over the center night stand in twin bed models and in
the hanging wardrobe on the roadside of the bed in the
double models.
The Cable TV/Telephone inlets are located inside the
roadside rear underbelly compartment on all rear bed
models.
HOOK UP TO CITY WATER by
attaching a minimum 1/2” high-
pressure water hose to the city
water service.
Water
Inlet
y
t
i
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UNDERBELLY COMPARTMENT OUTRIGGOR
Exterior cable TV
& Telephone Connector
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The 110-volt shoreline cord is stored in the rear storage
compartment. Remove the cord and plug the trailer end
into the receptacle on the side of the trailer.
An exterior water service outlet is located in the power
cord storage compartment also. It will work on the
pump system or city water.
TV Outlet
w/Booster &
12 Volt Outlet
The other end of the shoreline is plugged into City
Power Service.
The
TV-Outlet
w/
Antenna
Booster
The Cable TV/Telephone inlets are located on the
roadside sidesheet on all rear bed models.
12 V
must be on to receive
antenna signals and off
for cable TV operation.
Outlet
Light
Booster
Switch
TV Cable
Hook Up
Hook your WATER DRAIN HOSE in the SEWER
DISPOSAL FACILITY and attach to the drain outlet in
your trailer.
Exterior cable TV
& Telephone Connector
Turn on gas supply. Light the range and oven pilots.
Turn on the water heater, refrigerator and furnace.
WARNING: Check your escape window(s)
to make sure they will open completely. Also make
sure the terrain under the window is suitable for
rapid exiting.
When you stay for an extended period where electric or
water hookups are not available, you must make regular
checks on the condition of your 12-volt battery.
Hooking up the tow vehicle/trailer electrical connector
and running the tow vehicle engine at a fast idle. 45
minutes per day should provide about 3-4 hours of
power. Carry drinking water in a clean bucket to refill
your tank. When your waste tank nears capacity move
to a dumping location.
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CAMPING
WINTER TRAVELING
When parked in sub-freezing temperatures make
sure you keep a full supply of LP gas and plug into
a 110 volt power source whenever possible. A fully
charged battery will not last more than 8 to 10 hours if
the furnace is running almost constantly and 110-volt
power is not available.
air contained in the trailer and the appearance of visible
moisture, especially in cold weather.
Traveling in sub-freezing temperatures will require certain
precautions to protect the plumbing system and your
personal belongings from being damaged by freezing.
CONDENSATION
Just as moisture collects on the outside of a glass
of cold water during humid weather, moisture can
condense on the inside surfaces of the trailer during
cold weather when relative humidity of the interior air is
high. This condition is increased because the insulated
walls of a recreation vehicle are much thinner than
house walls.
Whenever possible the heat should be kept on at a
constant temperature. It is easier for the furnace to
keep a constant room temperature than for the trailer
temperature to be allowed to drop to 50 degrees
Fahrenheit then attempt to raise it to room temperature.
Leave cabinet doors, wardrobes and bed doors partially
open to allow warm air to circulate around plumbing
lines and fixtures. Insulate and/or wrap your exterior
water lines with heat tape.
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NOTICE: If you have the optional air conditioners
with heat pump they should not be used if ambient
temperatures remain below 25 degrees F. for more
than 12 hours.
NOTICE: The exterior water service line to the utility
compartment is in an unheated section of the trailer
and must not be used in below freezing conditions.
Estimates indicate that a family of four can vaporize
up to three gallons of water daily through breathing,
cooking, bathing, and washing. Unless the water
vapor is carried outside by ventilation, or condensed
by a dehumidifier, it will condense on the inside of the
windows and walls as moisture, or in cold weather as
frost or ice. It may also condense out of sight within
the walls or the ceiling where it will manifest itself as
warped or stained panels.
A water valve is provided so the water can be turned off
to the line. The exterior water service shut off valve is
located in the lavatory cabinet. Close the shut off valve
and open the water service for a few seconds to drain
the line and prevent freeze damage.
Only the furnaces are ducted to provide heat to tanks
and plumbing to prevent freezing.
WARNING: Always shut off the LP gas and
be sure all flames are extinguished before gasoline
is added to the tow vehicle.
EFFECTS OF PROLONGED OCCUPANCY
Appearance of these conditions may indicate a serious
condensation problem. When you recognize the signs
of excessive moisture and condensation in the trailer
action should be taken to minimize their effects. For
tips on controlling condensation see the “Tips To
Controlling Condensation” section.
Some states do not allow LPG to be turned on while
moving. While traveling in these states you must use
your common sense. How cold is it? How long will
it be before you can turn the heat back on? Is the
temperature dropping or raising? Remember, when
towing at 50 MPH the wind chill factor will cause the
interior of the trailer to cool much faster than a trailer
that is parked.
Your trailer was designed primarily for recreational use
and short-term occupancy. If you expect to occupy
the trailer for an extended period, be prepared to deal
with condensation and the humid conditions that may
be encountered. The relatively small volume and tight
compact construction of modern recreation vehicles
mean that the normal living activities of even a few
occupants will lead to rapid moisture saturation of the
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CAMPING
TIPS TO CONTROLLING CONDENSATION
To avoid condensation problems, try to follow these
tips to help alleviate excess moisture.
allow some cool outside air to get inside the
vehicle, so the furnace will not recycle the humid
interior air.
Vents are located in the bathing and cooking areas
and constant use is advised during food preparation
and bathing, even during colder weather. Additionally,
opening a window during these activities will assist in
ventilation. In extremely humid conditions, the use of a
dehumidifier can be helpful.*
• Use fluorescent ceiling lights and minimize
prolonged use of incandescent lights, which
produce heat and contribute to condensation in
the roof above the ceiling lights.
• Allow excess moisture to escape to the outside
when bathing, washing dishes, hair drying,
laundering, and using appliances and non-
vented gas burners. Always use the vent hood
when cooking.
Frequent use of your RV or cleaning regularly is an
importantpreventivemeasure. Further,anyspillsshould
be wiped up quickly and dried as soon as possible.
Avoid leaving damp items lying about. On safe
surfaces, use mold or mildew killing cleaning products.
Check sealants regularly, and reseal when necessary
to avoid water leaks. Proper preventive maintenance
to the RV and its accessories, as described both in this
manual and in accompanying literature, will provide the
best protection to the RV.
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ABOUT MOLDS
• Keep the bathroom door closed and the vent or
window open when bathing and for a period of
time after you have finished.
What are molds?
Molds are microscopic organisms that naturally occur in
virtually every environment, indoors and out. Outdoors,
mold growth is important in the decomposition of
plants. Indoors, mold growth is unfavorable. Left
unchecked, molds break down natural materials, such
as wood products and fabrics. Knowing the potential
risks is important for any type of homeowner to protect
their investment.
• Do not hang wet clothes in the trailer to dry.
• In hot weather, start the air conditioner early as
it removes excess humidity from the air while
lowering the temperature.
• Keep the temperature as reasonably cool during
cold weather as possible. The warmer the
vehicle, the more cold exterior temperatures and
warm interior temperatures will collide on wall
surfaces, thus creating condensation.
For more information of controlling moisture in the
RV, please read, “Tips to Controlling Condensation,”
located in this manual.
What factors contribute to mold growth?
For mold growth to occur, temperatures, indoor or
outdoors, must be between 40 degrees and 100
degrees Fahrenheit and also have a source of moisture,
such as humidity, standing water, damp materials, etc.
Indoors, the most rapid growth occurs with warm and
humid conditions.
• Use a fan to keep air circulating inside the vehicle
so condensation and mildew cannot form in
dead air spaces. Allow air to circulate inside
closets and cabinets (leave doors partially open).
Please keep in mind that a closed cabinet full of
stored goods prevents circulation and allows the
exterior temperature to cause condensation.
• The natural tendency would be to close the
vehicle tightly during cold weather. This will
actually compound the problem. Simply put,
you need to remove some of the warm air, and
*If using a dehumidifier, please read and follow all
manufacturer instructions and recommendations to the
use and cleaning of the dehumidifier.
NOTICE: Your trailer is not designed, nor intended,
for permanent housing. Use of this product for long
term or permanent occupancy may lead to premature
deterioration of structure, interior finishes, fabrics,
carpeting, and drapes. Damage or deterioration due to
long-term occupancy may not be considered normal,
and may under the terms of the warranty constitute
misuse, abuse, or normal wear.
How can mold growth be inhibited?
By controlling relative humidity, the growth of mold
and mildew can be inhibited. In warm climates, use
of the air conditioner will reduce the relative humidity.
C - 8
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CAMPING
SLIDE OUT ROOM
are the large paddle latches on each end of the room.
Depress the switch to the unlock position and hold. You
will see the paddle latch on the forward end of the room
retracting. Hold the switch down until the panels are
completely retracted and you hear the operating motors
just start to strain. The motors are thermal protected so
you won’t have to worry about damaging them.
It is located on the right side of the cabinet under the
front window.
The trailer should be level prior to extending the slide out
room. The front stabilizing jacks MUST be deployed. If
the front jacks aren’t down when the room is extended
the side to side imbalance will twist the body of the
trailer if it’s only supported by the front hitch jack.
The next option is to manually close the room. Under
your trailer, where the room is located, there’s a large
hinged access panel attached to the underside of the
trailer. It’s rectangular and about a foot wide and six
feet long. On the side opposite the hinge three or four
stainless steel screws hold the panel closed. Opening
the access panel reveals the motor and main drive shaft
extending from the motor to the two gear driven slides.
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Please read the complete leveling and stabilizing
instructions in the Extended Stay part of this section.
Remove the magnetic travel blocks from the travel
latches.
Now hold the slide out switch in the out position. Hold
the switch until the motor stops indicating the room is
fully extended.
WARNING PLEASE READ
On one end of the motor is a short lever. Swinging
the lever up releases a brake that prevents the shaft
from turning when the motor is shut off. With the brake
released it’s now possible to turn the drive shaft with a
3/4-inch wrench. The octagon stub for emergency use
of a wrench is located on the end of the drive shaft
towards the back of the trailer.
LEVEL AND STABILIZE UNIT USING HITCH JACK
AND STABILIZER JACKS PRIOR TO OPERATING
SLIDE-OUT ROOM. FAILURE TO LEVEL UNIT MAY
CAUSE THE ROOM TO OPERATE IMPROPERLY OR
CAUSE DAMAGE.
Retracting is the same procedures in reverse order.
Make sure the room is retracted and the lock down
paddle latches are firmly engaged PRIOR to storing the
stabilizing jacks.
MAKE SURE THERE IS ADEQUATE CLEARANCE
TO OUTSIDE OBJECTS BEFORE SLIDE-OUT ROOM
IS EXTENDED.
TO PREVENT ACCIDENTAL INJURY, STAND CLEAR
OF SLIDE-OUT ROOM WHILE ROOM IS IN MOTION.
REMOVE TRAVEL LOCKS BEFORE ATTEMPTING
TO OPEN SLIDE-OUT ROOM.
FAILURE TO RETRACT
Slide out Mechanism Manufacturer:
Power Gear
NEVER ATTEMPT TO MOVE TRAILER WITH
ROOM EXTENDED.
In the unlikely event the room won’t retract the first
place to check is the lock down paddle latches. If
curious fingers have hit the lock down switch and the
latches aren’t fully closed power is automatically cut to
the slide out switch. To correct this situation depress
the unlock position on the lock down switch until you’re
sure they are fully retracted then try the slide out room
switch again.
800-334-4712
INSTALL TRAVEL LOCKS PRIOR TO TRAVEL.
TRAVEL LOCKS ARE TO BE POSITIONED AND
ADJUSTED PROPERLY TO HOLD ROOM FIRMLY IN
POSITION BEFORE TRAVEL.
Once leveled and stabilized, locate the switches to
operate the room. They are black and located on the
interior wall just forward of the room. The left switch,
marked lock downs, must be used first. The lock downs
Check your 12-volt distribution panel for blown fuses.
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EXTERIOR
EXTERIOR
Cleaning
Airstream recommends using DX 330 Acryli-Clean made by PPG Industries. Follow
all directions and warnings on the product container. Acryli-Clean should be used
by trained personnel only, using the proper equipment under controlled conditions.
Use the Acryli-Clean as sparingly as possible to remove glue, tar, and other similar
substance. Rinse with cool water immediately after use.
As a general rule of thumb we recommend the trailer be washed about every four
weeks and waxed in the spring and fall. In industrial areas cleaning and waxing should
be done on a more frequent schedule.
To keep your trailer looking new, paint the “A’ frame, LPG tanks, and rear
frame periodically.
NOTICE: ABRASIVEPOLISHESORCLEANINGSOLVENTSSUCHASAUTOMATIC
DISHWASHER DETERGENTS OR ACID ETCH CLEANERS. ARE TOO STRONG
AND SHOULD NEVER BE USED. RINSE ALL GRIT FROM SURFACE PRIOR TO
WASHING. DO NOT USE WIRE BRUSHES, STEEL WOOL, ABRASIVES OR OTHER
SIMILAR CLEANING TOOLS THAT WILL MECHANICALLY ABRADE THE COATING
SURFACE. ALWAYS TEST A SMALL INCONSPICUOUS AREA FIRST.
The exterior includes plated medallions. Use mild soap and water on a soft cotton
cloth to clean. The inish is soft metal and will scratch, If that doesn’t not work, use
a mild metal polish such as PEAK METAL POLISH applying lightly with a clean soft
cotton cloth.
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It is recommended that the caulking and sealant used in external seams and joints
such as end shell segments and around window frames, light bezels, beltline and
rub rail molding, etc. be checked regularly. If this material has dried out and become
cracked or checked, or if a portion has fallen out, it should be replaced with fresh
material to prevent possible rain leaks. Caulking and sealing material is available from
your Airstream dealer.
ALWAYS CLEAN YOUR TRAILER IN THE SHADE OR ON A CLOUDY DAY WHEN THE
ALUMINUM SKIN IS COOL. Use soft rags or wash mitts always moving lengthwise with
the grain of the trailer. NEVER rub hard on the coating. Oil, grease, dust and dirt may be
removed by washing with a 5% solution in water of commonly used commercial and
industrial detergents. Cleaning should be followed by a thorough clean water rinse.
Drying the unit with a chamois or a soft cloth may prevent spots and streaks. WHEN
WASHING OR WAXING YOUR TRAILER,
Precautions should be taken to prevent excessive sealant from getting on the coated
surfaces. Remove excessive sealant before it cures using DX 330 Acryli-Clean made
by PPG Industries as explained above.
After cleaning and drying, a good grade of nonabrasive automotive paste or liquid
wax will increase the life of the finish, especially in coastal areas where the finish is
exposed to salt air or in polluted industrial areas. It will also protect the shell from minor
scratches and make subsequent cleaning easier.
NOTICE: It may be possible for solvents other than those recommended to
extract materials from sealants that could stain the coated surface or could prove
harmful to the sealants; therefore, these possible effects must be considered.
Test a small area first.
It is important to remove sap, gum, resin, asphalt, etc. as soon as possible after they
appear by washing and waxing. Sunlight and time will bake-harden these materials
making them almost impossible to remove without heavy buffing. If a substance
is found on the coating that cannot be removed by normal washing procedures,
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EXTERIOR
Main Door
WARNING: Never park your trailer so the escape windows cannot be
easily used for emergency exits.
NOTICE: When towing, the door lock and dead bolt must be secured. If it is not
locked, the constant vibration of travel may cause the door to open with possible
damage.
Clean your trailer windows the same way you clean the windows in your home. Clean
the seals with a damp cloth or mild detergent every three to six months, taking care
not to use strong solvents, as they will damage the seals. A coat of natural silicone
lubricant applied after the seal has dried will keep it flexible. Spread the lubricant
evenly with a brush or finger, working it into the surface.
Screen Door
The screen door secures to the main door by means of a slide bolt type latch. It can
be operated independently by releasing the slide bolt and swinging the screen door
away from the main door.
This is a good practice for all rubber seals in your trailer. For replacement of a damaged
window contact an Airstream Service Center.
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Step
Your PLASTIC SCREENS are easy to maintain. Clean occasionally with a damp cloth.
NOTICE: They will melt at the point of contact if touched by a cigarette.
To operate the step, lift up on the latch bar and the step will drop down.
WARNING: Once the steps are lowered, press down on them to make sure they are
secure in their notches.
Awnings
NOTICE: Never travel with step lowered or extended
Exterior Windows
Complete instructions have been provided with your awning. You should make sure
your traveling companion is familiar with the operation of the awning. If a sudden
wind should come up, or if high wind is forecast, the awning should be retracted
and stowed.
The windows in your trailer are safety glass. To open: release the two lever locks at
the bottom, lift up on the two side operator handles until the window is in the desired
position, and place the operators into one of the three positioning slots on the side of
the frame. To lock the windows reverse this position
Note: Some windows are designed as an emergency escape exits. The rubber Spline
holding the screen in place is looped so it can be pulled out in one swift motion.
You and all your family should practice escape procedures so they can be rapidly
accomplished even in total darkness.
D - 2
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EXTERIOR
CHASSIS
5. Insert locking pin or padlock through hole in handle for safety and theft prevention.
COUPLER
To Open
The standard RECOMMENDED HITCH BALL HEIGHT for an
Airstream is 18” on all models except the slide outs which are
19.75”. If you plan long trips with the trailer heavily loaded
you should check your trailer, after loading, to determine the
optimum height. To check, park the trailer on a level surface
and crank the front jack up or down until the measurement from
the frame to the ground is the same front and rear. Measure
from the ground to the upper surface of the hitch ball coupler.
Add one inch to this figure when setting the ball height on
the tow vehicle to allow for the suspension settling under the
added weight.
Slide Latch Forward
Figure 1
To Open
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Open Position
Figure 2
WARNING: ALWAYS OPEN LATCH HANDLE
To Close
BEFORE INSERTING BALL
OPERATION INSTRUCTIONS
Closed Position
Figure 3
1. To open - slide latch forward (Figure 1) and pull up to open
latch (Figure 2) before inserting ball.
2. Lower coupler on ball of same diameter as coupler and of same or greater
capacity.
3. When ball is completely nested in coupler socket, push top of latch handle
rearward until handle snaps into closed position. (Figure 3)
4. Extend jack to ground and lift car/trailer combination 2-4” to insure coupler is
securely attached to tow ball. Retract jack before towing.
D - 3
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EXTERIOR
POWER JACK
Maintenance
A switch located on the bottom of the housing operates the power jack. When the jack
is fully extended or retracted internal limit switches automatically shut off the motor.
Another switch operated the convenience light.
1. Every two years remove screws and cover and check grease condition. Use HMP
grease similar to lubricate 630AA and spread on gear teeth, Grease is not required
on the nylon timing gears. No internal lubrication of the post is required, but an
occasional external application of a silicone or WD-40 spray lubricant on the inner
tube of the post when extended is permissible.
Should an electrical failure occur, remove the power head by loosening the two Allen
set screws. The jack post may now be operated manually by inserting the emergency
handle into the coupling on top of the post.
2. Before replacing the cover ensure that the plate and limit switch unit are
located correctly.
Replacing Power Head
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3. Apply a little sealing compound around the mating surface of the gear cover and
replace screws tightening them diagonally. Check synchronization if head has
been removed from the post.
It is essential that the following procedure be used before the power head is replaced
on the post.
1. With 12 volts connected, ground the power head to trailer “A” frame. Operate main
switch in “post retracting direction” until the motor stops automatically.
4. A little penetrating oil on the Allen setscrews occasionally will help prevent
corrosion and difficult removal.
2. Using emergency handle, crank post clockwise by hand until fully retracted, then
turn crank one turn counterclockwise.
3. Replace head on post and make sure that drive pin is engaged with post coupler.
Tighten Allen set screws.
NOTICE: Leave tow vehicle transmission in neutral when lifting both units. Dolly wheels
are not recommended. Always retract stabilizing jacks before using your Super Jack
under load.
D - 4
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EXTERIOR
TIRES
WARNING: Never attempt to change any tire without securely chocking
remaining wheels. Never position yourself in a manner where a raised trailer can
come down on you if it should become dislodged from a jack or ramp.
Your trailer is equipped at the factory with name brand trailer tires. Airstream dealers
cannot make adjustments to tires. A dealer who handles that particular brand must
do this. If you ever have tire problems check the local telephone directory for the
nearest dealer.
All tire and wheel assemblies are balanced at the factory. Be sure to rebalance the tire
and wheel assemblies each time a tire is changed.
To get the maximum performance from your tires check the air pressure often,
but only when the tires are cool. Never bleed out air immediately after driving.
Recommended tire pressures vary with tire type and size. For pressures refer to
the SPECIFICATION TABLE.
WARNING: When removing aluminum-forged wheels from spindle,
it is very important to mark them to assure the wheel is placed in the same
position of the drum when reinstalling. If the aluminum-forged wheel is to be
mounted on a different drum it is important to sand all loose corrosion from the
mating surfaces.
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WARNING: WHEEL SEPARATION CAN OCCUR
In an emergency remove the flat tire. The independent suspension Of the Rubber
Torsion Axle allows four or six wheel units to be safely towed on three or five wheels
for a short distance (100 miles maximum) and only at a low speed (30 MPH).
1. On first trip, tighten wheel lugs at start and at 10, 25, and 50 miles.
2. Thereafter, check wheel lugs before each trip.
3. Following winter storage, check before beginning a trip.
4. Following excessive braking, inspect wheel lugs
Be especially cautious in crossing holes or dips in the road. Under these circumstances
it is good practice to set your rear view mirrors so that you can observe your tires at
all time.
Torque aluminum wheels to 100 ft. lbs. and steel wheels to 95 ft. lbs.
Try to park out of the sun whenever possible when in warm climates. In desert regions
use tire covers to prevent ultra-violet deterioration to tires.
To CHANGE A TIRE with a jack see the label affixed to the underbelly to the rear of
the wheels. This label, says JACK with an arrow and points to a plate riveted to the
mainframe rail where the jack head must be placed. A flat tire may also be changed
without the aid of a jack. Drive the unit up on a ramp 8’ wide, 6” high, and about 3 feet
long at its base. Position the good tire on the ramp. This will raise the flat tire clear of
the ground.
D - 5
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EXTERIOR
TIRE ROTATION
AXLE AND RUNNING GEAR ASSEMBLY
(10,000-mile intervals)
Each Airstream RUBBER TORSION axle is aligned during manufacturing, and double-
checked on a random basis. Alignment after delivery is the customer’s responsibility.
Hitting chuck holes or rough railroad tracks while going straight will only cause
misalignment after the tire has been struck many repetitive times. Of course, a deep
enough hole can affect the alignment immediately.
Radial Tires
The worse culprit is a curb because they are normally struck at an angle. Surprisingly
rear axles are occasionally damaged when people are attempting to park beside a
curb and are backing up their trailer.
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As you look under your trailer is it normal for the axle to be bent up in the middle. This
bend is how the camber is obtained.
Radial Tires
Toe-in is built into the axle by very slight bends in the axle tube on each end.
If tire wear ever indicate misalignment check with your dealer for the nearest location
having the proper equipment.
SPARE TIRE
The spare tire for Airstreams is stored under the front of the trailer. The front handle
of the tire carrier is a one-inch tube protruding out from under the front A-frame on
the curbside. It is secured by a bracket and bolt along the inside of the A frame rail.
Removing the bolts allows the front on the tire carrier to be lowered and the spare
tire removed.
NOTICE: Never allow heat to he applied to the axle tube since the rubber providing
the spring torsion action will be severely damaged.
D - 6
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EXTERIOR
TIRES
and each morning you drive during a trip. Tire pressure
should be checked cold, as tire pressure ratings have
been designed with typical running heat/pressure
build-up in mind. Make sure the valves and caps are
free of dirt and moisture.
using a safety cage. Use a calibrated gauge. If
your tire is rated for higher inflation pressures,
a special gauge will be required designed for
larger tires.
Load/Inflation Information for Your Tires
Maintaining proper tire inflation pressure is essential for
both tire safety and performance.
• Don’t bleed air from warm tires to reduce
pressure buildup
Under Inflation
• Don’t inflate tires to cold PSI rating beyond
rim specifications
Proper Tire Inflation
Under inflation brings a higher risk of damage due to
road hazards, reduces casing durability, causes a loss
in fuel economy, and uneven or irregular tire wear.
Severe under inflation brings about an increased risk
of tread separation, handling difficulties, and possibly
tires failure, caused by overheating.
The level of air in your tires affects your vehicle’s
overall performance. Not even the highest quality tire
will perform well if it’s not inflated properly. The correct
pressure varies from vehicle to vehicle and depends
in part upon driver preference. Each vehicle has a
maximum inflation pressure, usually found on a metal
tag riveted to the outside of the vehicle as well as on
the original equipment tires.
HOW OVERLOADING AFFECTS YOUR TIRES
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Tire pressure is what enables your RV tire to support
loads. Overloading your tires can have serious
consequences for passengers and your RV. Too much
weight can cause stress on your RV’s suspension
system, brakefailure, shockabsorberdamage, handling
and steering problems, irregular tire wear and possible
tire failure. Excessive loads or under inflation can lead
to an excessive amount of heat and tire failure. If you
discover that your tires cannot handle the load, lighten
the weight of the load on your tires.
IMPORTANT: Lowering tire pressure in the search for
a smoother ride is not only dangerous, it’s relatively
ineffective, and as the difference in the ride quality
is not significant. When minimum inflation pressure
requirements are not met, tire durability and optimum
operating conditions are compromised. Tire inflation
pressure should always meet the guidelines for
vehicle weight.
Correct tire inflation is a key component in tire care.
The recommended inflation pressures for your tires are
indicated on the certification label or in your owner’s
manual. Since RVs can be loaded with many different
configurations, the load on each tire will vary. For this
reason, air pressure should be checked based on the
load on each individual tire. Cold Inflation Pressure
should be adjusted to handle the maximum tire load,
and all tires on the axle should carry the same inflation
pressure. COLD TIRE INFLATION PRESSURE is the tire
pressure checked in the morning before you drive more
than a few miles or before rising ambient temperatures
or the sun’s radiant heat affects it. Check your tires’
air pressures at least once a month, before each trip
• It may be necessary to inflate your tires at
a truck stop or truck service center in order
to achieve adequate air pressure for your
coach’s needs
Tire pressure should never be reduced below the
vehicle manufacturer’s recommended levels to support
load conditions in order to improve the ride quality of a
vehicle. The difference in ride quality is not significant.
When inflation pressure requirements are not met, tire
durability and optimum operation can be affected.
• Only permanent air seal metal valve caps
should be used.
• Be safe - if a tire has been run 20% under
inflated, it must be dismounted and inspected
by a trained professional. It should not be
aired up without a full inspection or without
D - 7
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EXTERIOR
Recommended Tire Inflation Pressure
Nev-R-Lube Drums/Bearings
The recommended inflation pressure is not to be confused with the maximum inflation
pressure that is shown on the side of the tire. At the recommended inflation pressure,
tires will last longer and be less likely to fail, and the tow vehicle will use less fuel.
Serious injury can result from tire failure because of under inflation or overloading.
Dexter’s Nev-R-Lube bearings are compromised of opposed tapered roller bearing
cones sealed inside of a precision ground, one piece double cup arrangement. These
bearings are designed with a small amount of axial end play. The end play is essential
to the longevity of the bearings service life. Please read the Dexter Operation
Maintenance Service manual provided in your owner’s packet.
Cold Tire inflation Pressure is the tire pressure checked in the morning before you
drive more than a few miles or before rising ambient temperatures or the sun’s radiant
heat affects it. Check your tires’ air pressures at least once a month, before each trip
and each morning you drive during a trip. Tire pressure should be checked cold, as
tire pressure ratings have been designed with typical running heat/pressure build-up in
mind. Make sure the valves and caps are free of dirt and moisture.
Bearing Inspection
1. Jack trailer at marked jack location pad behind axle on mainframe.
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2. Check for excessive wheel end clearance by pulling the tire assembly towards you
and by pushing the assembly away from you. Slight end play is acceptable.
Recommended Cold Tire Inflation Pressure
3. Rotate tire slowly forwards and backwards. The wheel assembly should turn freely
and smoothly.
ST 225/75R-15
65 PSI
4. Excessive wheel end play, restriction to rotation, noise, or “bumpy” rotation should
be remedied by replacing the bearing unit.
WARNING: The maximum speed rating on the tires installed on your
trailer is 65 MPH. DO NOT EXCEED THIS RATING. Failure to heed this warning
could cause catastrophic tire failure resulting in property damage, personal
injury and/or death.
5. Bearing units should be inspected every year or 12,000 miles whichever comes
first.
NOTE: A slight amount of grease weeping from the seal area is normal. Excessive
leakage may indicate abnormal bearing operation.
Bearing end play inspection, drum removal/installation, and bearing replacement
procedures are described in the Dexter Operation Maintenance Manual enclosed
in you owner’s packet. Airstream recommends that these procedures are pre-
formed by a qualified Dexter service technician due the need of specialized tools
and training.
D - 8
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EXTERIOR
NOTES
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EXTERIOR
WEIGHING YOUR TRAVEL TRAILER
OR TOWED VEHICLE
steering or stopping, and a comfortable ride for you
and your passengers. The Tires on your recreational
vehicle are designed for highway use and must be
properly maintained in order to maximize tire life, as
well to provide a safe mode of transportation. Always
keep your tires clean and properly inflated.
1. Check the pressure in your tires, including your
spare, at least monthly when the tires are cool (after
the vehicle has stopped three hours and then driven
less than one mile.) Do not reduce pressure when
tires are hot. Use a tire gauge to check pressure
and maintain it at the recommended level.
Since a trailer or towed vehicle adds to the load on
your RV’s tires, it is crucial to properly weigh towed
vehicles. A travel trailer should first be weighed with the
tongue, while detached from the pulling vehicle. The
actual weight of the trailer must be less than or equal to
the GVWR for safe operation, otherwise contents must
be removed until the weight is within maximum GVWR
limitations. The weight of the complete, attached trailer,
excluding the towing vehicle, must also be taken. Each
wheel should be weighed while still attached to the
towing vehicle, and the individual wheel positions on
the towing vehicle should be weighed and checked for
overload as well.
Correct tire inflation is a key component in tire care.
The recommended inflation pressures for your tires are
indicated on the certification label or in your owner’s
manual. Since RVs can be loaded with many different
configurations, the load on each tire will vary. For this
reason, air pressure should be checked based on the
load on each individual tire. Cold Inflation Pressure
should be adjusted to handle the maximum tire load,
and all tires on the axle should carry the same inflation
pressure.
2. Never overload your tires. The maximum load
carrying capability of your tires is molded on the
sidewall of the tire.
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3. Check your tires frequently for scrapes, bulges,
separations, cuts or snags resulting from use. See
your tire dealer immediately if any such condition
is discovered.
4. Never operate your vehicle in excess of lawful
speeds or the maximum speeds justified by driving
conditions, or in excess of speeds recommended
for the tire you are using.
If you determine that the loading of your vehicle’s tires
are uneven, the actual weight of the trailer on each
tire must be less than or equal to its maximum load
capacity for safe operation, otherwise contents must
be removed until the weight is within maximum load
limitations.
Tips on Tire Care
Any tire, no matter how well constructed, may fail in
use as a result of punctures, impact damage, improper
inflation or other conditions resulting from use. Tire
failures may create a risk of property damage or
personal injury. To reduce the risk of tire failure we
strongly recommend the following:
5. Make every effort to avoid running over objects that
may damage the tire through impact or cutting,
such as chuckholes, glass, metal, etc.
TIRE CARE
6. Never drive on smooth tires. Tires should be
removed when 2/32nds inch of tread depth
remains. In most states it is illegal to drive with less
than 2/32nds inch remaining tread depth.
Tires are a very precisely engineered product designed
for specific applications and use. The tire functions
as the sole contact between the vehicle and the road.
Therefore, it must provide several different functions in
order for your recreational vehicle to handle properly.
Most important are traction while moving, grip when
D - 10
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EXTERIOR
The Importance of Proper Air Pressure
Under Inflation
a special gauge will be required designed for
larger tires.
The amount of air pressure in a tire determines the
load that can be carried safely. Every tire will have the
maximum load and inflation molded into the sidewall
of the tire. This load and inflation ratio should never
be exceeded since this can cause handling problems,
irregular wear, and component failure. The proper
amount of air pressure is always determined by the
weight of your RV fully loaded. This weight takes into
account all liquids, supplies, and passengers.
Under inflation brings a higher risk of susceptibility to
damage due to road hazards, reduces casing durability,
and causes a loss in fuel economy, plus uneven or
irregular tire wear. Severe underinflation brings about an
increased risk of tread separation, handling difficulties,
and possibly tire failure, which is caused by overheating.
• Don’t bleed air from warm tires to reduce
pressure buildup
Don’t inflate tires to cold PSI rating beyond rim
specifications.
IMPORTANT: It’s a common practice for RV owners to
lower tire pressure in their search for a smoother ride.
This is not only dangerous, it’s relatively ineffective, and
as the difference in ride quality is not significant. When
minimum inflation pressure requirements are not met,
tire durability and optimum operating conditions are
compromised. Tire inflation pressure should always meet
at least the minimum guidelines for vehicle weight.
Tire pressure should never be reduced below the vehicle
manufacturer’s recommended levels to support load
conditions in order to improve the ride quality of a vehicle.
The difference in ride quality is not significant. When
minimum inflation pressure requirements are not met, tire
durability and optimum operation can be affected.
D
Tire pressure is what enables your RV tire to support
loads. Overloading your tires can have serious
consequences for passengers and your RV. Too much
weight can cause stress on your RV’s suspension
system, brakefailure, shockabsorberdamage, handling
and steering problems, irregular tire wear and possible
tire failure. Excessive loads or under inflation can lead
to an excessive amount of heat and tire failure. If you
discover that your tires cannot handle the load, lighten
the weight of the load on your tires.
Always check air pressure with an accurate air
gauge at a cold PSI. Never reduce pressure when
a tire is hot and never exceed the maximum cold
pressure molded on the sidewall.
• It may be necessary to inflate your tires at
a truck stop or truck service center in order
to achieve adequate air pressure for your
coach’s needs
Tires on RV applications are subject to a variety of more
severe conditions when compared to automobiles
or trucks. Because of many chassis and optional
equipment differences, it is possible for an RV to be
within its Gross Vehicle Weight Rating (GVWR), but
overloaded when taking into consideration the weight
of each wheel position.
The level of air in your tires affects your vehicle’s
overall performance. Not even the highest quality tire
will perform well if it’s not inflated properly. The correct
pressure varies from vehicle to vehicle and depends
in part upon driver preference. Each vehicle has a
recommended inflation pressure, usually found on a
placard on the door section, doorpost, glove door, or
fuel door.
• Only permanent air seal metal valve caps
should be used.
• Be safe - if a tire has been run 20% under
inflated, it must be dismounted and inspected
by a trained professional. It should not be
aired up without a full inspection or without
using a safety cage. Use a calibrated gauge. If
your tire is rated for higher inflation pressures,
The only way you can know the safe load and
inflation pressure for the tires your RV is to know
the actual weight of each wheel position under
D - 11
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EXTERIOR
actual loaded conditions.
To properly weigh a travel trailer, it should first be weighed, including the tongue
weight, while detached from the pulling vehicle. This actual overall weight must be
less than or equal to the GVWR for safe operation. If the overall weight is greater than
the GVWR, some contents must be removed until maximum GVWR limitations are
achieved. Once the actual overall weight is determined and the trailer is within GVWR
limits, the following weights must be determined:
Under inflation of a tire can cause poor handling, irregular wear, and decreased fuel
economy. It also causes extreme heat build up within the components of the tire,
which can lead to failure. Over inflation of the tire causes a deformation of the contact
patch resulting in crowning of the center tread. This causes handling problems such as
reduced traction, irregular wear, and an increased chance for impact damage.
Only after the individual loaded weight is known for each wheel position can a
recommended air pressure be utilized using the load and inflation tables included in
this web site.
1. Weight of complete trailer, while attached, but excluding towed vehicle. This will
result in the actual weight which is exerted on all of the trailer tires. This weight
may be subtracted from the overall trailer weight (above) to determine actual
“tongue” weight.
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If there is a difference between one side of the RV versus the other, the load must be
redistributed so weights are as even as possible. As stated, you can be overloaded by
specific wheel position, as well as one side compared to another. Such a situation can
cause stresses on tires, wheels, and other components.
2. With the trailer still attached to the towed vehicle, each wheel position
should then be weighed separately to be sure each tire is not overloaded.
If and overload condition exists on any wheel position, trailer loading must
be redistributed or removed. If an overload situation is not corrected, tire or
mechanical failures may occur.
Always check air pressure with an accurate air gauge at a cold PSI. Never reduce
pressure when a tire is hot and never exceed the maximum cold pressure molded
on the sidewall.
3. The individual wheel positions (particularly the rear positions) on the towing vehicle
should also be weighed for possible overload while the trailer remains attached.
This is especially important on 5th-wheel applications where tongue weight may
be extreme.
The following work sheets are used for determining your loaded weight by wheel
position using a conventional platform scale.
How to Determine the Accurate Loaded Weight of Your RV?
Gross Axle, Gross Vehicular, and Gross Combined, weight ratings are located in
the chassis owner’s manual.
D - 12
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EXTERIOR
Proper Inspection and Storage of Tires
Tires used on most RVs are driven at or near maximum loads during hot weather and
then are left idle for months. In normal use oils in the tire come to the surface during
flexing and protect the rubber from ultraviolet light. But when left idle natural aging may
cause the rubber to crack prematurely, especially in the sidewall area.
Before taking your RV on a trip or when removing from an extended storage period,
make it a practice to inspect the overall condition of your tires. Check for any type of
condition or damage that might result in failure. A thorough check should include both
inside and outside sidewalls, tread area and the condition of hardware such as valve
stems, valve caps, and wheels. The tread should be checked for any unusual wear,
cracking, penetrations and/or cuts. An uneven wear pattern can indicate misalignment
or worn suspension parts.
Any tire on an RV that is over five years old should be inspected by a competent tire
professional for cracking and replaced, even if it has no apparent tread wear. This is
because a tire on a car or truck might last 80,000 to 120,000 miles before it needs to
be replaced, but an RV tire that only travels 5,000 miles per year will not approach that
mileage for 20 years. It will need to be replaced much before that.
Since many RVs are used seasonally and sometimes stored for extended times, it is
possible that tires will take many years to wear out. Tires, as any rubber product, will
age over time. If tires show cracking in the sidewall or tread surfaces that are more than
2/32nds deep, they should be replaced before your next trip or vacation. Store your RV
in a cool dry area away from major heat sources and extreme cold. An enclosed area is
best with no exposure to electromagnetic sources such as generators or transformers.
If you must keep your RV outside, cover your tires from direct sunlight. Take your RV to
your Tire dealer for service to check or correct any of these conditions.
D
The first step is choosing a tire adequate for the load. The load rating printed on the
sidewall will show the maximum load that can be carried at a defined pressure. As the
inflation pressure drops, the load that can be carried is less. As speed increases, the
amount of load that can be carried also drops. The load rating is also affected by how
the tire is used, as a single or as a dual.
A Goodyear ST225/75 R15 tire inflated to 65 PSI has load capacity of 2540 Lbs.
Replacing Your Tires
It is possible to replace your tires with a different size in some instances to increase
your load capacity with a different inflation pressure. If there is a reason to replace
your tires with a different size, make sure the following checks are made before the
purchase.
• Does the replacement tire have the load capacity that is needed for my RV and
will it fit properly inside the wheel well?
• Will the overall diameter difference affect the speedometer or antilock
braking system?
• Is the increase in air pressure compatible with the maximum rated pressure
stamped on the rim?
• Is there enough dual spacing offset for the rear wheel positions?
D - 13
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EXTERIOR
Lug Nut Torquing
whenever the trailer makes a tight turn. When you go around corners, especially
slow, tight ones, the wheels on your trailer are subject to these strong side loads.
This tends to flex the wheel and gradually loosen the wheel nuts. Although the ma-
terials and manufacturing methods are maximized for this kind of service, these extra
loads can cause stress, which can result in flexing and loosening of wheel nuts.
WARNING: WHEEL SEPARATION CAN OCCUR
1. On first trip, tighten wheel lugs at start and at 10, 25, and 50 miles.
2. Thereafter, check wheel lugs before each trip.
3. Following winter storage, check before beginning a trip.
4. Following excessive braking, inspect wheel lugs
Before each trip and any time a wheel is replaced, be sure to tighten the wheel nuts,
following the sequence shown in the relevant lug pattern below. Set the torque
specification in three stages as seen in the chart below. If the wheel was replaced,
check the torque every 50 miles of the first 200 miles of travel.
4
1
2
D
3
5
6
4
If you notice wheel wobbling or hear a rattling sound coming from a wheel, especially
at low speeds, a wheel lug nut may have come loose. This problem is usually caused
by improper tightening or by faulty or damaged lug bolt threads. If you have a reason
to believe a lug nut has come loose, safely stop the vehicle at the side of the road
as soon as possible. Put up warming devices. Remove the lug caps and check
the tightness of all the lug nuts. Tighten all lug nuts to the specified torque, using a
torque wrench. If lug stud threads are damaged or faulty, get professional service
help.
1
2
5
3
NOTICE: Use a torque wrench to tighten lug nuts. Tightening by hand or with an
impact wrench is not recommended.
Torque forged aluminum wheels to 100 Ft. lbs. and steel wheels to 95 ft. lbs.
Wheel Compatibility
Proper wheel nut torque is very important to safe and dependable towing of your ve-
hicle. The wheel and axle systems used in travel trailers and fifth wheels are similar,
yet different, in many ways to those used on cars and trucks. These differences are
important and require special attention to wheel nut torque both while the trailer is
new and throughout the trailer’s life.
WARNING: Do not mismatch wheels and tires.
Axle systems are installed with hubs and drums that are compatible with many
wheels used in the recreational vehicle industry that have matching bolt patterns. If
the original manufacturer installed equipment is in need of replacement, the wheel
manufacturer should be contacted for proof of compatibility prior to replacement and
use.
Trailer wheels must carry much higher loads per wheel than passenger car or truck
wheels. Each wheel may carry 1000 pounds and higher. Furthermore, wheels on
tandem axle trailers do not steer, and are subjected to very high side load stress
D - 14
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EXTERIOR
Customers replacing original equipment that has not been tested for compatibil-
ity must ensure the replacements are compatible to the hub and drum assembly
installed. Such elements of compatibility include, but are not limited to:
·
·
·
·
·
·
·
·
Diameter of the hub-mounting surface.
Stud length and diameter.
Location and number of studs.
Center hold diameter for the wheel.
Wheel mounting offset from the rim center.
Rated capacity of the wheel.
Wheel fastener torque.
D
Wheel nut size and shape.
Impact of any added wheel accessories (such as decorative center caps) that could
affect proper seating of the wheel to the hub surface.
Certain tests are recommended by the manufacturer’s of factory installed equipment,
such as the cornering fatigue test based on SAE J1095/SAE J267 and field tests,
are recommended for all wheels and rims to be installed in place of original factory
equipment. Contact the wheel manufacturer to verify compatibility with the factory
installed equipment prior to replacement.
D - 15
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INTERIOR
INTERIOR
Leather
be cleaned by following the same cleaning instruc-
tions detailed in the Exterior section of this manual
for the exterior skin. Do not use abrasive cleaners or
utensils on the aluminum skin as it is coated with a
clear coat that could be damaged.
The interior of all Airstream trailers has been designed
for comfort, convenience, durability and appearance.
How you use it and how you take care of it naturally
depends on you. However, if you learn to operate the
interior components and take care of them and the
trailer properly, this knowledge will add to your pleasure
as well as the long life of your trailer.
Clean leather fabrics with standard products used
for that purpose. Follow instructions on the cleaning
products container.
Draperies
NOTICE: Never remove cushion cover for separate
dry cleaning or washing. Any tumble cleaning
methodcandestroythebacking, shrinkorotherwise
damage upholstery fabric.
NOTICE: All drapery materials and mattress covers
must be professionally dry-cleaned.
All materials should be professionally dry cleaned to
remove any overall soiled condition. However, these
materials may be spot cleaned using the cleaning code
instructions as listed. Sample swatches are furnished
to our dealers. The dealer will be able to give you the
name of the fabrics used in your particular trailer. Each
swatch will show the cleaning code in parenthesis.
Unsnapping from the wall, removing a screw or pop
rivet from the end of the curtain track, and sliding them
out remove draperies. The pop rivets are removed by
drilling through the head with a 1/8” drill bit. To prevent
damage to the draperies while traveling, the VENETIAN
TYPE BLINDS should be lowered, secured at the
bottom and the slats turned vertically.
WARNING: Keep your furniture and family
safe from fires caused by careless smoking. Do
not smoke when drowsy. Remove immediately any
flowing ash or a lighted cigarette, which falls on
furniture. Smoldering smoking material can cause
upholstered furniture fires.
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Upholstery
Carpet
Interior Skin
Upholstery-Cleaning Code S
The carpet can be cleaned with any good commercial
carpet cleaner, or with a detergent and water. BE
CAREFUL NOT TO SOAK THE CARPET WITH WATER.
Most of he interior skin on your trailer is covered with
an upholstery that can be cleaned with a vacuum
cleaner. For stubborn spots follow Code W instruc-
tions above.
All materials should be professionally dry cleaned to
remove any overall soiled condition. Spot clean, using
a mild water free solvent or dry cleaning product.
DO NOT SATURATE THE FABRIC. Carefully follow
instructions on such product. Clean only in a well-
ventilated room. Avoid any product containing carbon
tetrachloride, which is highly toxic. Pretest small area
before proceeding. Use professional furniture cleaner
when an overall soiled condition is reached.
Vinyl Floor
For the vinyl Ceiling covering Damp wiping with mild
detergent does routine cleaning. Using any of the
automotive cleaners designed for vinyl car seats and
dashes can perform more thorough cleaning.
The vinyl floor in your unit can be cleaned with liquid
floor cleaning solutions recommended for vinyl floors
and warm water.
Counter Area
The aluminum interior skin around the galley should
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INTERIOR
The counter areas around the sink are of a high-
pressure laminate or Corian and can be cleaned with
soap and water, or you can use a common solvent
on tough spots. Be sure no abrasive cleaner is used,
as there is the possibility it could scratch the surface.
A protective pad should always be placed under hot
utensils. Sanding minor damaged areas can repair
Corian counters. The color of the material is constant
and not just a surface coat.
of your fiberglass unit. Stubborn stains can be removed
with solvents such as turpentine, paint thinner or
acetone. Restore dulled areas by rubbing with an
automotive type liquid cleaner then put the soft slow
back into your fiberglass unit with a light application of
liquid wax.
position, lift the table slightly so the leg clears the
carpet, and slide the leg and center support out toward
the center of the trailer. The leaf then unfolds and rests
against the leg support.
Airstream recommends that during travel the table be
folded up and stored. It has pressure catches to hold it
in place during travel.
Lounges
To convert the front lounge to a bed first set the armrest
cushions out of the way, lift up on the front of the seat
and pull it out. This will unhinge the sofa so it can be
pushed flat into a bed.
Monitor Panel
Vinyl Covering and Interior Ceiling
The monitor panel allows you to check the amount
of fluid in your fresh water tank, black tank (tank #1),
and the gray tank (tank #2). The LP bottle gas levels
and battery charge status are also shown. The panel
operation is explained in detail later in this manual.
Damp wiping with mild detergent does routine
cleaning. Using any of the automotive cleaners
designed for vinyl car seats and dashes can perform
more thorough cleaning.
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Dinette
The dinette is made into a bed by rising up on the
front of the table and folding the table leg up against
the bottom of the leaf. As the table is raised it will
unhook from the upper wall brackets. Once it is
unhooked it can be pulled out and the wall hinge will
let it be lowered on the supports of the dinette seats.
The backrests of the seats are placed over the table
to complete the conversion.
Sinks
Battery Condition Tester
The stainless steel galley sink can be cleaned with a
commercial stainless steel cleaner available at most
stores. The lavatory sink is a very dense material called
KARRAN. In the unlikely event of it ever being stained
powdered cleansers such as Ajax/Comet may be
used or even Scotch-Brite pads. The color is constant
through the thickness of the material,
The battery condition tester, used when not plugged
into 110-volt power, will indicate the trailer batteries
condition. When they show weak or bad condition you
should take every reasonable step to conserve power
by using as few lights as possible and switching off
appliances. The battery should be charged as soon as
practical with the tow vehicle charging system, or by
connecting to shoreline 110-volt power.
Table
Shower Stall
To open the folding table, lift into a horizontal position
and pull the table leg down toward the vertical position
until it snaps into place, The leg is hinged at the front
edge of the table and is held against the bottom of
the table with Velcro. To extend into the double leaf
To clean your fiberglass shower stall unit use warm water
and one of the stronger liquid detergents. Do not use
abrasive cleaners, they may scratch and dull the surface
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INTERIOR
Water Pump Switch
containment. It can be held in the hand and moved
about the body. Normally the best water conservation
procedure is to wet the entire body and then turn the
water off. Apply soap, lather thoroughly, and then
rinse the soap off. The telephone shower head is also
used to fill the tub for taking a bath. When you have
finished using the shower be sure to shut the water
off at the faucet.
bedroom will control the bedroom ceiling light. Each
light also has its own individual switch. The wall must
be turned on for the light switch to work.
Fresh water pump switches are located on the monitor
panel and in the lavatory. Once the switch is turned on
the pump will run until the water pressure reaches about
65 psi. At this point an internal pressure switch will shut
it off. When a faucet is opened the water pressure will
drop and the pump will start to run again. The water
pump switch should be turned off when the trailer is
left unattended. Water pressure at some campgrounds
may be low. The water pump can be turned on to assist
the city water hookup pressure. Be sure there is some
water in the fresh water tank. The pump will only use
the water that is needed out of the tank to bring the
pressure up to the usual standard.
Rotating one-quarter turn and bringing the bulb straight
out of the fixture will remove fluorescent light bulbs.
Fresh Air Vents
Bath Area Remote Switches
A control handle operates the fresh air vents. Turning
clockwise will raise the vent and at the maximum
extension, vents with fans will automatically turn on.
For maximum air without fan, open until fan starts
and back up just enough to turn fan off. Turning
counterclockwise will close the vent. Screens should
be removed for periodic cleaning.
Two remote switches for appliances are located on
the bathroom wall. One is for the water pump, and
duplicates the pump switch on the monitor panel.
Either pump switch may be used to turn the pump on
or off at any time.
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Bathroom Exhaust Fan
The second pair of switches, with a red indicator, is for
lighting the water heater.
Information on the optional high volume roof vent may
be found in the appliance section of this book,
The round bathroom exhaust fan is in the bathroom
ceiling and is opened by pushing up on the handle
running across the fan opening.
Incandescent Light Fixtures
A power lift bathroom fan may be installed in your
trailer. The switches for this fan will be located on the
forward bath wall. One switch will open the dome for
the fan and the other switch will activate the fan.
The light fixture has a switch located on the end of
the fixture. Gently squeezing in the middle and pulling
down will remove the lens. During cold weather it is a
good idea to leave the light on a few minutes prior to
removing the lens.
Telephone Shower Head
Fluorescent Ceiling Lights & Light Bulbs
The telephone shower head is designed to give
maximum flexibility in usage, and provides for water
saving techniques when using your trailer on self-
A wall switch just inside the door control lights in
the forward section and a second wall switch in the
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INTERIOR
Storage
WARNING: Keep flammable material
away from the furnace.
The kitchen cabinet should have the heaviest items on
the bottom and lighter items overhead. After loading
you should have the skillets and can goods on the floor
or bottom shelf, and the cereals and crackers in the
overhead roof locker. Use the unbreakable type plates
and saucers, and consider storing your dish towels
around them. Better yet, use paper plates. Who wants
to wash dishes when on a trip or vacation?
Remember, heavy items should be stored low
and toward the front, lighter items in the rear and
overhead cabinets.
A good place to store heavy items is in the front drawer
assembly. It is rated for a 100 lb. capacity, plus adding
weight to the front of the trailer may even improve
towing slightly.
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Clothes hung in wardrobes should be kept on hangers
that snap over the clothes rods to keep them from
“jumping” off on rough roads. Evening dresses should
be kept in the plastic bags like dry cleaning businesses
use. No matter how hard you try, if you travel a long
dusty section of road the dust will work its way into the
trailer and soil clothes. Try to avoid large bulky coats.
Layers of lighter clothing will usually keep you warmer,
are more versatile and easier to store.
Some additional storage is available under the shelf in
the bottom of the wardrobe, but you must be sure it is
loaded so the drain lines, water pump and filter, and
heat ducts can’t be damaged.
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INTERIOR
CARBON MONOXIDE ALARM
THIS CARBON MONOXIDE ALARM IS NOT
The following information is highlights from the folder provided by the alarm manu-
facturer. The folder, with more detailed information, is contained in your Owners’
Packet.
1. Designed to detect smoke, fire or any gas other than carbon monoxide.
2. To be seen as a substitute for the proper servicing of fuel-burning appliances.
3. To be used on an intermittent basis, or as a portable alarm for spillage of combus-
tion products from fuel-burning appliances.
CAREFULLY READ AND UNDERSTAND THE CONTENTS OF THIS INSTRUCTION
MANUAL BEFORE USING THE ALARM.
CAUTION: This carbon monoxide alarm is designed for indoor use
only. Do not expose to rain or moisture. Do not knock or drop the alarm. Do not
open or tamper with the alarm as this could cause malfunction. The alarm will
not protect against the risk of carbon monoxide poisoning when the batteries
are dead or missing. The alarm will only indicate the presence of carbon mon-
oxide gas at the sensor. Carbon monoxide gas may be present in other areas.
STORE THE MANUAL IN A SAFE PLACE FOR FUTURE REFERENCE. PAY
PARTICULAR ATTENTION TO THE SAFETY WARNINGS. PASS THE MANUAL ONTO
ANY SUBSEQUENT USERS OF THE ALARM
WARNING: Activation of your CO alarm’s audible horn indicates the
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presence of carbon monoxide (CO) which can KILL YOU.
IMPORTANT
Carbon monoxide is produced by the incomplete combustion of fuels such as wood,
charcoal, coal, heating oil, paraffin, gasoline, natural gas, propane, butane, etc.
WARNING: Alarm battery is shipped deactivated. Check your alarm
for proper battery installation.
Ideally, it is recommended that a carbon monoxide alarm should be installed in or
near every room that has a fuel burning appliance such as any room heaters, water
heaters, cookers, grills, etc.
WARNING: THIS PRODUCT IS INTENDED FOR USE IN ORDINARY
INDOOR LOCATIONS OF FAMILY LIVING UNITS. IT IS NOT DESIGNED TO
MEASURE COMPLIANCE WITH OCCUPATIONAL SAFETY AND HEALTH
ADMINISTRATION (OSHA) COMMERCIAL OR INDUSTRIAL STANDARDS.
Ensure that the alarm horn can be heard by all those who are intended to hear it.
Seek medical help if it is suspected that a user of the RV is suffering from carbon
monoxide poisoning.
INDIVIDUALS WHO ARE AT SPECIAL RISK FROM CARBON MONOXIDE
EXPOSURE BY REASON OF AGE, PREGNANCY OR MEDICAL CONDITION MAY
CONSIDER USING WARNING DEVICES WHICH PROVIDE AUDIBLE AND VISUAL
SIGNALS FOR CARBON MONOXIDE CONCENTRATION UNDER 30 PPM. IF IN
DOUBT CONSULT YOUR MEDICAL PRACTITIONER.
If the alarm sounds, make sure to investigate the problem. Ignoring the alarm may
result in sickness, injury or death. (CO may be present even if nothing is seen or
smelled by the user).
Room spaces should be well ventilated when household cleaning supplies are used
as these may cause a false alarm.
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INTERIOR
Alarm should be tested once per week. If further details are required which do not
appear in this manual contact BRK Brands Inc. First Alert.
A. Wind direction and/or velocity: including high gusts of wind. Heavy air in
the vent pipes (cold/humid air with extended periods between cycles).
B. Negative pressure differential resulting from sue of exhaust fans.
C. Simultaneous operation of several fuel burning appliances competing
for limited internal air.
Introduction
This alarm is designed to detect the presence of carbon monoxide. This manual
contains information on operation of the CO alarm. The green light flashes at ap-
proximately 60-second intervals to indicate the alarm is operating correctly. The red
light will flash continuously and the horn will sound if carbon monoxide is detected.
The alarm is suitable for use in areas where cooking and heating appliances burn
fuels such as wood, charcoal, coal, oil, gas, etc.
D. Vent pipe connections vibrating loose from clothes dryers, furnaces or
water heaters.
E. Obstructions in or unconventional vent pipe designs which can amplify
the above situations.
2. Extended use of unvented fuel burning devices.
3. Temperature increase that can trap exhaust gases near the ground.
This carbon monoxide alarm is designed to detect carbon monoxide gas from any
source of combustion
SYMPTOMS OF CARBON MONOXIDE POISONING.
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These symptoms are related to CO POISONING and should be discussed with users
of the RV.
WHAT IS CARBON MONOXIDE
1. Mild Exposure - Slight headache, nausea, vomiting, fatigue, (“flu-like” symptoms),
2. Medium Exposure - Throbbing headache, drowsiness, confusion, fast heart rate.
3. Extreme Exposure - Convulsions, unconsciousness, heart and lung failure,
4. Exposure to carbon monoxide can cause brain damage, death.
Carbon monoxide (CO) is a highly poisonous gas which is released when fuels are
burnt. It is invisible, has no smell and is therefore very difficult to detect with the
human senses. Under normal conditions, in a room where fuel burning appliances are
well maintained and correctly ventilated, the amount of carbon monoxide released
into the room by appliances is not dangerous. These fuels include: Wood, coal,
charcoal, oil, natural gas, gasoline, kerosene, and propane.
WARNING! Many causes of reported CARBON MONOXIDE
POISONING indicate that while victims are aware that they are not well, they
become so disoriented that they are unable to save themselves by either exiting
the building or calling for assistance. Also young children and pets may be the
first to be affected.
Common appliances are often sources of CO. If they are not properly maintained, are
improperly ventilated, or malfunction, CO levels can rise quickly. CO is a real danger
in “Air-tight” RVs with added insulation, sealed windows, and other weatherproofing
can “trap” CO inside.
The following conditions can result in potentially dangerous CO situations.
1. Excessive spillage or reverse venting of fuel burning appliances caused by outdoor
conditions, such as:
WARNING! Test units used in RVs after the vehicle has been in stor-
age, before each trip and once a week while in use. Failure to test units used in
RV’s as described may remove your protection.
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INTERIOR
CARE AND MAINTENANCE OF ALARM
proper battery installation. To activate battery, new Airstream owner must install
included battery to proper orientation.
The alarm should be tested weekly by pressing and holding the test/reset button on
the front of the alarm for several seconds. The alarm is pre-calibrated at the factory
and requires no maintenance other than to clean the outside casing occasionally with
a cloth. Ensure that the holes on the front of the alarm are not blocked with dirt and
dust. D0 NOT USE CLEANING AGENTS, BLEACH OR POLISH: The unit requires 3
x 1.5V alkaline batteries. The following are suitable replacements. Gold Peak 24A
LR03, Energizer E92 LR03. Use only the batteries listed. Use of batteries not listed
may affect performance of the unit.
LP GAS DETECTOR
In the kitchen area of your unit, approximately six inches above the floor, is the LP
gas detector. LP gas is a mixture of gases produced and sold commercially as a fuel
for heating and cooking appliances. LP gas is highly flammable and, as a result, can
be explosive if ignited under certain circumstances. LP gas is heavier than air and,
if confined in a closed space, will accumulate close to the floor. When the LP gas
concentration in your unit exceeds 2000 PPM the detector will provide a visual and
audible alarm by sounding a buzzer and flashing the red LED two times per second.
USING THE ALARM
To activate the alarm, insert the 3 batteries which are included, fit the battery
compartment cover and close the detector lid (battery compartment cover cannot be
fitted unless batteries are inserted.) When inserting the batteries, ensure the polarity
is correct - ie. positive end of battery (+) align with the (+) symbol in the battery hous-
ing. The green and red lights will flash briefly and the horn will sound a short chirp.
Press the test/reset button and check that the red light flashes and the horn sounds.
The alarm is now operating and ready for use.
WARNING: Activation of this detector indicates the presence of LP
gas, which can cause an explosion and/or fire. This normally indicates a leak in
the LP gas installation or a LP gas appliance. Extinguish all open flames, open
your windows and door and evacuate the unit immediately. Do not activate
any electrical switch. Turn off the LP at your gas bottle(s). DO NOT RE-ENTER
YOUR UNIT UNTIL A QUALIFIED REPAIR TECHNICIAN HAS CORRECTED THE
PROBLEM.
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SMOKE DETECTOR
OPERATION
A smoke detector is provided with your trailer. A manual pertaining to the detector is
included in the paper work given to you at the dealership. Please read and follow all
care, maintenance, and safety information contained in this manual.
Your LP gas detector is wired directly to your vehicle battery and incorporates a 1-amp
in-line fuse. When the device is operating normally the green LED will be lit.
The smoke alarm will “beep” once a minute for at least 30 days when the battery is
weak. The battery must immediately be replaced with a fresh one.
WARNING: It is not recommended that the detector be disconnected
from the battery during periods of storage. There is a small heater on the sensor
of the device, which “burns” away impurities in the air during periods of normal
use. During periods when power is interrupted, impurities can build up on the
sensor. When power is returned to the detector the detector alarm may activate
WARNING: Alarm battery is shipped deactivated. Check your alarm for
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INTERIOR
until the impurities are “burned” off. This could take a number of hours, during
which time the alarm will be constantly “on”.
WARNING: Never park your trailer so the escape windows cannot be
easily used for emergency exits.
DETECTOR TEST
These windows are cleaned in the same manner that ordinary windows are. Clean the
seals with a damp cloth or mild detergent every three to six months, taking care not
to use a strong solvent, as it will damage the seals. A coat of natural silicone lubricant
applied after the seal has dried will keep it flexible. Spread the lubricant evenly with a
brush or finger, working it into the surface. This is a good practice for all rubber seals
in your Airstream. For replacement of a damaged window contact an Airstream Service
Center or the factory.
Press the test button for 5 to 6 seconds until the alarm sounds then release the test
button. The red LED should flash and the alarm sound for approximately 4 minutes.
This test should be performed at least once a week during normal vehicle operation,
and after periods of storage, and before each trip.
WARNING: Have a professional check your system if you have any
doubts.
SCREENS
FIRE EXTINGUISHER
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Your plastic screens are easy to maintain. Just clean them occasionally with a damp
cloth.
The fire extinguisher just inside your forward door should have the charge checked on
a regular basis. Make sure your family, especially the cook, knows how to release the
extinguisher storage bracket, and how to properly operate the extinguisher. If you find
the directions on the extinguisher unclear, check with your local fire department for
professional advice on its operation and use. We’re sure they will be happy to assist
you and your family.
NOTICE: Window and door screens will melt at the point of contact if touched by a
cigarette.
RANGE EXHAUST
NOTICE: The range exhaust cover on the outside the trailer has a swinging door
that can be latched during inclement weather and should be latched in travel. When
operating the exhaust fan, the latches should be turned so the door swings open
when the fan is on.
EXTERIOR WINDOWS AND SCREENS
The windows in your trailer are safety glass. To open: release the two lever locks at
the bottom, lift up on the two side operator handles until the window is in the desired
position, and place the operators into one of three positioning slots on the side of the
frames. To lock the windows, reverse this procedure.
Note: Some windows are designed as emergency escape exits. The rubber spline
holding the screen in place is looped so it can be pulled out in one swift motion.
You and all your family should practice escape procedures so they can be rapidly
accomplished even in total darkness.
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PLUMBING
PLUMBING SYSTEMS
the by-pass flow.
LIQUID PETROLEUM GAS (LPG)
6. If operational difficulties continue, there may be
a leak in the system. Immediately close the LP
cylinder valve and have the system inspected by a
qualified RV service technician.
By-pass flow is extremely important in the proper
operation of this connection. The flow-limiting device
may activate if the cylinder valve is opened quickly.
When all appliances are off, the by-pass flow allows
the pressure downstream from the flow-limiting device
to equalize. When pressure is equalized, the flow-
limiting device will supply normal flow to the system.
Equalization occurs in approximately 5 seconds and in
most cases goes completely unnoticed. If, however, an
appliance is left on or there is a leak or open flow in
the system, the by-pass pressure will not be able to
equalize and allow the flow-limiting device to re-open.
Symptoms of this condition would be appliances that
light but have lower than normal flame or starve out
from lack of gas, a substantial reduction in the flame
when another appliance is operating, or pilots that are
difficult to light. If this should happen, the following
steps should eliminate the condition:
FILL VALVE
Your trailer is equipped with LP tank fill valves called
“RV Type I Acme” connection. The large, green, nylon
swivel nut is a right hand thread and is designed for
hand operation only.
Again, make sure all appliances are off before
opening propane cylinder valves.
Exception: when reconnecting a full cylinder to an auto
changeover regulator it is not necessary to shut off the
appliances or close the valve of the cylinder already in
service.
The valve features an internal spring-loaded module
that will not allow gas to flow from the cylinder until
a positive seal has been made at the connection. The
valve outlet has 1-5/16” Acme threads on the outlet
exterior and female POL, left-handed threads on its
interior. This feature allows for connection of the new
wrenchless, right-handed, Acme RV connection and
still accommodates the standard left-handed POL
fittings used for filling propane cylinders.
WARNING: LEAKING LP GAS MAY IGNITE
CAUSING A FIRE OR EXPLOSION WHICH COULD
RESULT IN SERIOUS BODILY INJURY, PROPERTY
DAMAGE, OR DEATH.
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How long a full tank of gas will last is dependent on
usage. In cold weather, when you are using the furnace,
large amounts of hot water, and are doing extensive
cooking, you will naturally use more than you will in
warm weather when you may do limited cooking. On
the average, with normal cooking and other appliance
use you can probably count on two to three weeks of
service from each tank.
The mating, green swivel nut and brass nipple also
incorporates new features: the green nylon nut swivels
on a black bushing that is heat sensitive. Between 240
degrees F. and 300 degrees F. the bushing will yield
(melt) allowing the spring-loaded module in the valve
to push the brass nipple back (approximately 1/4”)
closing the module and stopping the flow of gas from
the cylinder. Inside the brass nipple is a flow-limiting
device designed to sense excessive gas flow. If an
excessive flow is sensed, the flow-limiting device shuts
the flow down to a maximum of 10 SCFH (Standard
Cubic Feet per Hour) or less. This is also referred to as
1. Close LP cylinder valve.
2. Extinguish all flames and smoking materials
3. Be sure all gas appliances, including their pilot
lights, are off.
4. Open LP cylinder valve slowly. DO NOT
SNAP OPEN.
5. Wait at least 15 seconds before lighting appliances.
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PLUMBING
AUTOMATIC GAS REGULATOR
WARNING: DO NOT REMOVE THE
CAUTION: The LPG bottles are securely
mounted on the front “A” frame of your trailer.
If these bottles must be removed for service or
replacement it is important that they be reinstalled
correctly in order to prevent any possibility of their
falling off or becoming dislodged during travel.
All models are equipped with a two stage automatic
change over gas regulator that offers the convenience
of automatic changeover from empty to full gas
cylinders. Both tanks are connected to this regulator.
CENTER HOLD DOWN ROD.
To Install
1. Place the bottle in position on the “A” frame and
bottle cross member so that it rests on the upper
collar of both bottles with the collar rims engaged in
the grooves on the underside of the bracket. If your
trailer is equipped with a gas bottle cover it should
be positioned over the bottles next. Make sure the
hold down rod projects up through the hole in the
shroud center bracket.
Make sure there is propane in both tanks before you
start. Rotate the black lever on the top front side of the
regulator toward the cylinder you want to use first. This
will be the “service” cylinder and the other will be the
“Reserve” cylinder. Slowly open both cylinders valves.
Open both cylinder valves completely, then close
about 1/4 turn. This will allow you to easily check to
see if valves are open or closed. The indicator on top
of the regulator will turn bright green. The indicator will
stay bright green as long as there is fuel coming from
the service cylinder. When the service cylinder empties,
the regulator will draw fuel automatically from the
reserve cylinder providing an uninterrupted fuel flow to
the system. When it switches over, the indicator will
change from green to red. This red color indicates the
service cylinder is empty and needs to be filled.
LPG BOTTLES
The following step-by-step procedure gives you the
proper method of removing and installing these bottles:
1. Turn the knob on your automatic regulator so the
arrow points to the tank opposite the one to be
removed. Shut off the gas valve on the bottle to
be removed.
2. Replace the “T” handle and tighten down until the
bottles are held firmly in place.
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3. Turn on gas shut off valves and test all fittings
with a soap suds or detergent solution and watch
for bubbles.
2. Disconnect the rubber gas line at the bottle to
be removed. (This fitting has a left hand thread
and turns in the opposite direction to most
threaded fittings.)
If you have allowed both tanks to run out, air may
have gotten into the lines. In this event, the air must be
forced out through the lines by gas pressure before you
will be able to light the pilots. Hold a match to the pilot
of the appliance closest to the tanks until it lights and
stays lit. Then move to the next closest, etc.
3. Turn the large clamping “T”’ handle
WARNING: 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 that
cover is kept in place to minimize vent blockage,
which could result in excessive gas pressure
causing fire or explosion.
counterclockwise until the hold down bracket is
loose enough to remove the bottle. If your trailer is
equipped with a gas bottle cover the “T”’ handle
must be removed, and then remove the cover
before removing the bottle.
Twice a year, or after a long storage period, we suggest
you take your unit in for a checkup and cleaning of the
gas operated appliances.
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PLUMBING
BASIC RULES FOR SAFETY
WARNING: Do not store LP containers
within a vehicle. LP containers are equipped with
safety devices that vent gas should the pressure
become excessive.
WARNING: 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. Use only certified refill
LP stations when filing an LP bottle
Many things can be construed as safety related, but
the most important is your common sense. If you
are careless with matches, cigarettes, flammable
material or any other hazardous material, we are
sure you realize your potential for accidents is
greatly increased.
WARNING:Donotusecookingappliances
for comfort heating. Cooking appliances need fresh
air for safe operation. Before operation open an
overhead vent or turn on an exhaust fan and open
a window.
WARNING: Your LP tanks must be filled
as directed by the tank manufacturer. Instructions
are located on a decal near the fill valve. The decal
must not be defaced.
WARNING: Do not bring or store LP gas
containers, gasoline or other flammable liquids
inside the vehicle because a fire or explosion
may result.
A 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 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: Your LP tank must be, and
can only be, placed in the proper position when
remounting on the front of the trailer. In any
other position the base of the tank will not fit
into the recess.
F
WARNING: IF YOU SMELL GAS:
WARNING: Use only the gas bottles
furnished with your trailer. If replacement is required
it must be a bottle of the same size and design.
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.
WARNING: The vent at the bottom of
the regulator must be kept free of any obstructions
and must be pointed downward. A good habit is to
check the vent each time a bottle is removed for
filling. It is especially important to check the vent if
the trailer has not been used regularly.
WARNING: Portable
equipment, including wood
fuel
and
burning
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.
charcoal
grills and stoves, shall not be used inside the
recreational vehicle. The use of this equipment
inside the recreational vehicle may cause fires or
asphyxiation.
F - 3
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PLUMBING
WATER SYSTEM-SELF CONTAINED
stream.
Fill the water tank by opening the exterior access door and remove screw cap. A
garden hose can now be inserted. It’s a good idea to let the water run through the hose
for a short time to flush it out. Experienced RVers usually fill their tanks with “home”
water to avoid strange water that may be distasteful to them.
All other faucets can now be opened until all air is expelled.
Once the system is filled with water and the faucets closed, the water pump will shut
off. When a faucet is opened the pump will come back on automatically. If the faucet is
just barely open it is normal for the pump to cycle on and off rapidly.
Water pressure at some campgrounds may be low on city water. The water pump can
be turned on to assist the city water hookup pressure. Be sure there is some water
in the fresh water tank. The pump will only use the water that is needed out of the
tank to bring the pressure up to the usual
The amount of water in the tank may be checked on the Monitor Panel, or you may fill
the tank until water overflows out of the fill.
The water heater by-pass
WATER
HEATER TOP
Hot
Water Outlet
valves are always located
on the side or top of the
water heater and are
accessed from inside the
trailer. To use the water
heater set the valves to
normal position, shut off
valve B - open valves A
and C. In some models
the valves may be in a
horizontal pattern rather
standard.
Aquatec
Pump
HOT WATER LINE
A
Reverse valves to bypass water heater for
winterizing.
BYPASS
LINE
WATER PUMP AND STRAINER
F
B
Cold
Sureflo
The water pump and strainer are located
Strainer
Water Inlet
COLD WATER LINE
C
under the wardrobe on all model and is
accessed by a hinged or removable bottom
shelf or removable front panel.
Valve Handle Positions
Open
than the vertical shown in the illustration. Valve
operating sequence will be the same. Access to
the valves in most units is through the lavatory
To clean strainer screen, first remove inlet connection from the pump side of strainer.
This will allow the intake side of the strainer to be rotated about 1/8 turn counter
clockwise and be removed. The screen part of the strainer will now be accessible
for cleaning.
Closed
cabinet door; on others it will be necessary to remove a lavatory cabinet drawer.
Open the hot side of the galley or lavatory faucet and turn on the water pump switch
located on the monitor panel. For some time the open faucet will only sputter. This
is because the water heater is being filled and air is being pushed out through the
lines. Once the water heater is full a steady stream of water will come from the faucet.
Now open a cold faucet. It will sputter for a short time, but will soon expel a steady
When reassembling only rotate the inlet side of the strainer until the stops are felt. The
“O” ring performs sealing and too much pressure will only break the strainer.
F - 4
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PLUMBING
SANITIZING
NOTE: The sanitizing procedure outlined above is in conformance with the approved
procedures of RVIA ANSI Al19.2 and the U.S. Public Health Service.
Potable water systems require periodic maintenance to deliver a consistent flow of
fresh water. Depending on use and the environment the system is subject to, sanitizing
is recommended prior to storing and before using the water system after a period
of storage. Systems with new components, or ones that have been subjected to
contamination, should also be disinfected as follows:
NOTE: A petcock, visible between the tires, will drain the tank sufficiently for most
purposes. Total drainage may be achieved by removing the large Allen Head Plug
located on the bottom of the tank. An access plate must be removed from the tank pan
to expose the plug.
1. Use one of the following methods to determine the amount of common household
bleach needed to sanitize the tank.
A) Multiply “gallons of tank capacity” by 0.13; the result is the ounces of
bleach needed to sanitize the tank.
B) Multiply “Liters of tank capacity” by 1.0; the result is the milliliters of
bleach needed to sanitize the tank.
F
2. Mix into solution the proper amount of bleach within a container of water.
3. Pour the solution (water/bleach) into the tank and fill the tank with potable water.
4. Open all faucets (Hot & Cold) allowing the water to run until the distinct odor of
chlorine is detected.
5. The standard solution must have four (4) hours of contact time to disinfect
completely. If you double the solution, this concentration allows for contact time of
one (1) hour.
6. When the contact time is completed, drain the tank. Refill with potable water and
purge the plumbing of all sanitizing solution.
F - 5
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PLUMBING
CITY WATER HOOK-UP
Your plumbing system has a built in pressure regulator to protect your lines and faucets
from extremely high pressures on some city water systems.
The city water hook-up is found in the underbelly untility compartment on the trailer. A
short piece of hose has been provided to extend the city water hookup.
EXTERIOR WATER SERVICE
Use a high-pressure hose of at least 1/2” diameter. It should be one that is tasteless,
odorless and non-toxic designed for RV use. The city water inlet is a standard garden
hose thread. We suggest you carry two lengths of hose. This way you have the ability
to reach hookups further away than normal, plus you have a spare hose should one fail
or become damaged unexpectedly.
Also in the underbelly utility compartment is a hose connection for the exterior water
service. This is plumbed into the high-pressure water system of the trailer. This is
an ideal place to rinse the sand off your feet after going to the beach, cleaning mud
off your boots, and hundreds of other messy jobs that are better done outside. On
all units except the 27’ and 25’ Front bed Model an exterior water service shut off
valve is located nside the lavatory cabinet and can be accessed by either opening the
cabinet doors or removing the cabinet drawers. The front bed models shut off valve is
accessed by removing a door on the wardrobe bottom shelf. The exterior water service
is located beyond the heated area of the trailer and can be damaged if the water is
not turned off in freezing temperatures. In freezing temperatures close the shut off the
valve and open the exterior water service valve to drain the valve and line.
After hooking up the hose and turning on the city water valve provided in the park,
slowly open a faucet. There will be a lot of spurts and sputtering until all the air is
expelled from the trailer system. If the water heater is empty it will take some time
before all the air is expelled and you get a steady flow of water at the faucet. Once
a steady flow is achieved at one faucet the others should be opened long enough to
expel the air in the lines going to them.
F
NOTE: On some units only the exterior water service shut off valve will be located
inside the lavatory cabinet. On others there may be up to five valves located inside the
cabinet. Three of these are used as the water heater by-pass system as described in
the winterizing section. Another may be for the toilet shut off. The fifth valve is for the
exterior water service. Always check to see if the water supply has been cut to the
exterior service before using the rest of the water system in freezing weather.
Water pressure at some campgrounds may be low. The water pump can be turned
on to assist the city water hookup pressure. Be sure there is some water in the fresh
water tank. The pump will only use the water that is needed out of the tank to bring the
pressure up to the usual standard.
City Water
Hookup
Water
F - 6
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PLUMBING
GALLEY DRINKING WATER SPOUT W/ FILTRATION SYSTEM
Delta 211 Series
Removing a filter resets the system.
1-800-345-DELTA (3358) www-deltafaucet.com
A. The system cannot be in operation when changing the filter. Make sure the handle
(1 ) is in the off (down) position. You DO NOT need to shut off the water supply line,
however a shut valve has been provided .
This section is highlights of the manual provided by Delta and included in your owner’s
packet. Please read and follow all directions in that manual. Quality drinking water
is important. The Delta Simply PUR water filtration system will provide filtered water
while being easy to maintain.
B. Press air release valve (1) prior to unscrewing the filter lower housing (2). Note:
You can use the wrench (3) supplied with the unit to help loosen the housing. If
you encounter difficulty unthreading the lower housing, remove unit from wall mount
bracket to replace filter cartridge. WARNING: Be sure to remove the light pipe (4)
before removing the filter unit.
Filter Replacement Instructions:
C. Bring the lower housing to the kitchen sink, remove the old filter and any water in
the housing.
Use only PUR brand blue faucet mount filters -PUR filter cartridge #RF-4050 L or RF-
9999 (same filters used in PUR faucet mount system). Replacement filters are available
at most major retail stores, including: home improvement stores, discount stores,
drug stores, hardware stores, and grocery stores. The filter life is up to 100 gallons or
D. Remove freshness plug (1) from a new PUR filter and insert into lower housing.
Ensure tab (cam) (2) and receptacle (3) are properly aligned before assembly.
E. Reattach the filter housing to the system by screwing into place. Do not over
tighten.
approximately 3 months. NOTE: You cannot clean a filter cartridge. Do not remove the
filter unless you intend to replace it, the system will not operate without one.
F. Press air release valve (Refer to page 9 step B). Run the water for 5 minutes to flush
the filter cartridge.
F
B
A
4
2
2
1
1
3
C
1
D
E
F
2
3
F - 7
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PLUMBING
Battery Replacement Instructions:
Red Light - Replace filter - (Filter system will shut off at the end of filter life.) Replace
with PUR blue faucet mount filter RF-4050 L or RF-9999.
2 AA Batteries -Battery life is approximately one year. Batteries are required to operate
the light indicator.
Flashing Amber Light - Batteries low (Replace -2-AA)
Flashing Green Light - Low or high water flow - system operational
A. Remove the battery holder (1) from the top of the filter head (2).
B. Replace the old batteries with 2 new AA batteries.
When battery holder is connected, the red/green light will flash for 10 seconds.
C. Reinsert the battery holder into the top of the filter head. Make sure battery holder
is pushed in all the way for full engagement. When battery holder is connected, the
indicator light will flash red-green for 10 seconds.
The light indicator is operational when the system is in the on mode - handle is in the
up position. Two AA batteries are required to operate the light indicator.
Cleaning and Care:
A
1
2
C
B
Care should be given to the cleaning of this product. Although its finish is extremely
durable, it can be damaged by harsh abrasives or polish. To clean, simply wipe gently
with a damp cloth and blot dry with a soft towel.
+
-
-
+
USE AND CARE INSTRUCTIONS:
Simply PUR water filtration system is not intended to purify water. Do not use with water
that is microbiologically unsafe or of unknown quality without adequate disinfection
before or after the system.
F
The Simply PUR Water Filtration System is designed for easy use and maintenance.
Following these instructions will help maintain the life of the system.
Systems that are certified for cyst reduction may be used on disinfected water that
may contain filterable cysts.
Use:
Simply turn the handle in the on (up) position to dispense filtered water. Your kitchen
faucet may be used at the same time as the filter system. If the filter system is not
operational, your kitchen faucet will continue to operate normally, unless there is a
plumbing issue affecting both units.
Do not use with water above 100°F/38°C as this may damage the filter. The Simply
PUR water filtration system is intended for use with cold water only as hot water can
reduce the quality of filtered water.
Light Indicators:
Green Light -Normal operation -Filter in use.
Amber Light - Approaching end of filter life.
F - 8
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PLUMBING
GALLEY FAUCET
CARE AND CLEANING
Delta 473 Series
1-800-345-DELTA (3358)
www-deltafaucet.com
Care should be given to the care and cleaning of the galley faucet. Although the finish
is extremely durable, it can be damaged by harsh abrasives or polish. To clean, simply
wipe gently with a damp cloth and blot dry with a soft towel.
This section is highlights of the manual provided by Delta and included in your owner’s
packet. Please read and follow all directions in that manual.
LAVATORY FAUCET & SHOWER VALVE
Faucet - Delta 2555 Series
MAINTENANCE:
Shower Valve - Delta 1404 Series
If faucet leaks from under handle - Remove handle
Maintenance
and tighten adjusting Ring (1).
1
If faucet leaks from spout outlet
If leak persists - SHUT OFF CITY WATER SUPPLIES
Replace cam and packing (2) and appropriate Ball
Assembly.
-
Shut off water supplies
-
Replace Seats and Springs (1).*
3
2
If leak persists-Shut off water
supplies-Replace Stem Unit
Assembly (2): *Install stems (2)
and 1/4 turn stops (3) correctly
for proper handle rotation.
F
If faucet leaks from spout outlet - SHUT OFF WATER
SUPPLIES - Replace seals and springs (4).
1
1
If leak persists - SHUT OFF WATER SUPPLIES.
2
3
Replace appropriate Ball Assembly.
6
NOTICE: SCRUBBING BUBBLES BATHROOM CLEANER and LYSOL BASIN TUB
AND TILE CLEANER must not be used on the clear knob handles and levers.
Use of these cleaners can result in cracked or severely damaged handles If over
spray gets onto the handles immediately wipe them dry with a soft cotton cloth.
4
5
If faucet exhibits very low flow:
A. Remove and clean aerator.
B. Unscrew hose from wand and clean debris from screen (the screen is located just
inside the wand)
C. SHUT OFF WATER SUPPLIES - Clean seals and springs (4) of any debris.
F - 9
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PLUMBING
DRAIN VALVES
WATER VALVES
The fresh water line drain valves have been moved to the exterior of the coach for
easier access. If you look between your tires you can see a galvanized “box” that is a
few inches lower than the trailer frame. This “box” or pan supports the water tank.
Your Airstream has 6 in-line water shut off valves. One is for the water purifier, two
are for shutting off the cold water supply to the toilet and exterior water service, three
are for bypassing the water heater when winterizing using the anti-freeze method as
explained in the winterizing section of this manual.
The line drains will be the two brass petcocks extending from the end of the pan. The
white plastic petcock you will see is to drain the water tank.
Water heater by-pass valves are located on the water heater, accessed inside the
lavatory cabinet by opening the cabinet door or removing the cabinet drawer, by
opening the roadside exterior compartment door or removing the wardrobe shelf.
To Empty Fresh Water Tank
Pumping the water out with the self-contained water pump may empty the fresh water
tank. Simply turn on the pump switch and open a couple of faucets until the water will
no longer comes out. On all models there is also a petcock type drain valve located in
the wheel well and extended out through the tank support pan.
A toilet shut off valve is used to shut water off to the toilet in an emergency or service
situation. On some units it is located inside the lavatory cabinet, on most units it is
located just behind the toilet close to the floor.
A water purifier shut off valve is located under the galley top on the water feed line to
the purifier cartridge.
An additional drain plug is located on the bottom of the tank, accessible under the
inspection plate close to the petcock that can be seen on the bottom of the tank
support pan.
F
On all units except the front bed models an exterior water service shut off valve is
located nside the lavatory cabinet and can be accessed by either opening the cabinet
doors or removing the cabinet drawers. The front bed models shut off valve is accessed
by removing the access panel on the wardrobe bottom shelf. The exterior water service
is located beyond the heated area of the trailer and can be damaged if the water is
not turned off in freezing temperatures. In freezing temperatures close the shut off the
valve and open the exterior water service valve to drain the valve and line.
Note: For winterizing purposes, only the petcock behind the tires needs to be opened
to drain the tank.
Water Heater Draining
All models have a drain plug or petcock on the water heater. Access is from the
exterior. The plug or valve is usually located in the lower left corner, viewed as you face
the exterior of the water heater.
There may be one, two, or five valves located inside the lavatory cabinet according to
your model length. If there are more than one, three of valves are used as the water
heater by-pass system as explained above and are easily recognizable as they will be
located next to the water heater. Another may be for the toilet shut off. The fifth valve is
for the exterior water service. Always check to see if the water supply has been cut to
the exterior service before using the rest of the water system in freezing weather.
F - 10
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PLUMBING
WINTERIZING AND STORAGE
7. Disconnect the water pump inlet connection and turn the pump on until all the
water is expelled. This water, about 1/2 cup, can be caught in a towel or rag.
When storing your trailer for short or long periods use the same precautions as you
would in your own home in regard to perishables, ventilation and rain protection. In
addition, for prolonged storage periods flush out all the drain lines and the holding
tanks. Also drain the entire water system including the water heater and the water
storage tank. Instructions for draining the water system are explained in the following
paragraphs on winterizing.
8. Lower the front of the trailer as far as the jack will allow until water ceases to drain,
then crank the jack up as high as it will go and let any remaining water drain out.
9. After the water has stopped running from the drain lines, apply at least 60 lbs,
of air pressure at the city water inlet. An air to city water adapter is available
from your dealer’s RV accessory store. Be sure the toilet valve and all drain
valves and faucets are open and pump outlet hose is disconnected. This can be
accomplished at a service station and will force any remaining water from the
water heater and remove any water which may be trapped in low areas.
THE MAIN CONSIDERATION IN WINTERIZING IS TO GUARD AGAINST FREEZING
DAMAGE TO THE HOT AND COLD WATER SYSTEMS, THE WASTE DRAIN SYSTEM
(INCLUDING THE TRAPS), AND THE WATER HOLDING TANKS, AND THE WATER
HEATER AND THE BATTERY.
To completely winterize your trailer follow this procedure.
10. Pour a cup of non-toxic RV antifreeze which has been approved and listed by a
recognized testing authority such as Underwriter Lab into the lavatory, sink and
tub drains to prevent trap freeze-up.
1. Level the trailer from side to side and front to rear. Open all faucets
F
2. Turn the water pump switch to the ON position to expel water from the
storage tank
CAUTION Remove all RV anti-freeze spillage from all drain and faucet
parts after winterizing. Failure to do so could result in damage to the plumbing fixture’s
finish.
3. Open all drain valves including drain plug or valve on water heater and exterior
water service valve. (See drain valves on previous page)
11. Be sure to open the waste holding tank drain valves and drain and flush the tanks
thoroughly (THIS IS VERY IMPORTANT AS THE SEWAGE IN THE TANKS, IF FROZEN,
COULD SERIOUSLY DAMAGE THE TANKS.)
4. While the water is draining from the system, open and flush the toilet-flushing
valve. Depress hand spray lever while holding the spray head down inside the
bowl. Depress hand spray thumb button on the telephone shower head while
holding down inside the tub and drain all water from the flexible hose. Unscrew the
heads on both spray units and store.
12. Remove the cartridge of the water purifier and leave the purifier valve in the open
position. (If so equipped.)
5. Turn the pump switch OFF after all water has been removed from the storage tank.
6. Remove exhaust hose from water pump.
13. Remove the batteries from your trailer and store in a cool dry place where there is
no danger of freezing. It is very important for optimum life of a battery to check it
periodically and to keep it fully charged.
F - 11
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PLUMBING
DRAIN AND WASTE SYSTEM
Typical Dump Valve System
14. Remove any items (food, cosmetics, etc.) from trailer interior that might be
damaged by freezing - or might damage the trailer if containers break.
Your trailer has a drain and waste system that includes
waste-holding tanks made from molded plastic, free
from corrosion problems, with trouble-free dump
valves.
For additional winterizing protection add a non-toxic antifreeze (approved for drinking
water system) to the water lines using the following procedure.
1. Reconnect all lines except the hose to the pump inlet port. Close all drain valves.
The MAIN HOLDING TANK enables you to use the
toilet for several days away from disposal facilities. The
wastewater from the sink, shower, bath and lavatory
drains in the AUXILIARY HOLDING TANK. Each tank
has its own dump valve, however, both tanks drain
through a common outlet. Therefore, you need to
make only one connection when hooking up in a trailer
park with sewer facilities. The valves are labeled at the
handles.
2. Turn by-pass valve to by-pass position. To by-pass the water heater for winter-
izing, close valves A and C and open valve B (See illustration on next page).
3. Install a spare water purifier cartridge to be used specifically for winterizing. This
cartridge will have RV anti-freeze in it when finished and will be removed and the
clean cartridge reinstalled for normal use. Keep the spare cartridge for future cold
winterizing procedures.
Dump Valve Handles
4. Attach a length of hose to the pump inlet port. This piece of hose should be
long enough for the free end to be inserted into and reach the bottom of the
antifreeze container.
F
NOTICE: Never put wet strength paper towels or tissues in your holding tank
since they won’t dissolve and can “catch” in the mechanism of the dump valve.
Colored toilet tissue is slower to dissolve than white. Most RV accessory stores
offer tissue designed for RVs that will completely dissolve.
5. Dilute the antifreeze solution in accordance with the manufacturer’s instructions
6. Open all water faucets.
Deodorizers
7. Insert hose length into the antifreeze container, turn the pump switch on, and run
the water pump until the antifreeze solution fills all water lines. Flush toilet. Work
hand shower spray while holding down in tub.
There are many deodorizers on the market in tablet, liquid and powder form. These
not only combat odor, but also stimulate the bacteria that works to dissolve the solids
in your tank.
8. Shut off the pump and close all faucets.
9. Disconnect the hose length from pump inlet fitting and reconnect water system
inlet line.
F - 12
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PLUMBING
Monitor Panel
Black Tank Flush
Check your monitor panel frequently. When the BLACK WATER HOLDING TANK is
completely full, sewage cannot be emptied from the toilet bowl. If the GRAY WATER
HOLDING TANK is overfilled, drain water will “backup” into the tub and cause an
unpleasant cleaning job. Never drain the tanks at any place other than an approved
dumping station.
Inside the underbelly utility compartment is a water hose connector for the “black
tank flush”. To use, hook up a hose and turn it on full force. Within the tank a head
with multiple holes will spray the interior surface of the tank. A vacuum breaker and
one-way valve is located inside the trailer above the exterior connection to prevent the
black water from escaping to the hose connection. In most models this will place them
under the lavatory.
Emptying Tanks
The gate valve should be closed for the first couple of minutes, and then opened to let
the water out in a rush. Close the gate valve and repeat as needed.
Almost all campgrounds will have dumping facilities. Park directories such as Woodalls
and Rand McNally also list dumping stations.
When Parked and Connected to Sewer Outlet
To empty one or both tanks attach the sewer hose by pressing the bayonet fitting onto
the dump valve outlet and rotate clockwise until it feels solid and secure. Attach the
outlet end of the hose to the sewage outlet; making sure that the hose is placed so it
will drain completely.
When you are in a park and connected to a sewer outlet keep the main holding tank
dump valve closed, and empty the tank every few days or whenever it becomes
almost full. ONLY BY SENDING A LARGE VOLUME OF LIQUID THROUGH THE MAIN
HOLDING TANK AT A TIME WILL TOILET PAPER AND OTHER SOLIDS COMPLETELY
WASH AWAY.
F
Pull the dump valve handle as far as it will go and wait until the tank is drained. When
dumping, the main holding tank should be dumped first; then the auxiliary holding
tank. This will help to rinse out the sewer line with auxiliary holding tank water.
This practice will avoid the accumulation of solids in the main holding tank, which
could lead to an unpleasant cleaning job. Should solids accumulate, close the dump
valve; fill the tank about half full with water, then tow the trailer for a few miles. The
turbulence and surging of the water will usually dissolve the solids into suspension
so the tank can be drained. Keep the auxiliary tank valve open when connected to a
sewer outlet.
The main holding tank must be flushed out until all paper and waste material is
removed. Close the dump valve and refill the tank with clean water and repeat until
clean. Replace the cap prior to traveling.
The main and auxiliary tanks are heated by ducting from the furnace. Be sure to follow
winterizing instructions for the tanks immediately in freezing temperatures if heat is not
being supplied to the trailer.
Draining the tanks as described will protect them from freezing during storage. When
traveling in sub-freezing temperatures use a winterizing solution designed for RV use.
Follow the directions on the container.
F - 13
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PLUMBING
Drain Systems Cleaning
TOILET
The only cleaning agents that can be used without causing harm to the system are
household ammonia and tri-sodium phosphate in small quantities. Do not use any
product that contains any portion of petroleum distillates. This attacks the rubber
seats of your toilet and dump valve. Also, do not use any dish detergent or abrasive
cleaners.
Manufacturer: Thetford Corporation
Sealand Technology (34’ Classic non-slide only)
7101 Jackson Road
13128 State Route 226, P.O. Box38
Ann Arbor, MI 48103
Big Prairie, Oh. 44611
All products should be marked approved for ABS drainage systems.
313-769-6000
1-800-321-9866
When winterizing the drain system use only RV approved antifreeze sold through your
dealer or RV supplier.
The RV toilet in your Airstream is a design that has been used for many years. There are
two pedals. The large pedal opens and closes the slide mechanism, and the smaller
pedal opens and closes a water valve.
In normal use, when you are hooked up to city water, both pedals are depressed
together. This dumps the sewage and fresh water and flushes down the side of the
bowl. Water will continue to run into the bowl for a short time after the pedals are
released.
F
When you wish to conserve water hold the hand-spray head over the bowl and hold
down the thumb-operated lever. Now when you depress the pedal all the water is
routed through the hand-spray.
NOTICE: When you dump the bowl of the toilet make sure all paper and solids have
cleared the slide mechanism before you allow it to close. Failure to do so can cause the
groove for the slide to become jammed and the slide will no longer close completely.
If the problem should occur a small nail or bent clothes hanger can be used to “pick”
the material out of the groove.
F - 14
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ELECTRICAL
ELECTRICAL
and does not require routine servicing. If a short should
occur the breaker in that circuit will “click” off and you
may notice some lights or appliances losing power. If
this should happen, immediately turn the lights and
appliances off that are on the shorting circuit and reset
the breaker by depressing the small button in the end.
If the breaker continues to “click” turn the main power
off until a qualified technician can service your trailer.
Electronic Battery Disconnect Switch (Front Bed
Models Only)
The major portion of electrical power in your Airstream is
12-volt. The 12-volt current powers the fans, furnaces,
water pump, and water heater ignition. The exception
would be the air conditioner and microwave oven.
The disconnect switch is used to separate the battery
from the 12-volt distribution panel and converter
charging system. It is an electronic version of the
manual “Kill” switch.
All 12-volt current comes through the battery system
in the front of your trailer. The battery or batteries are
accessible from the exterior on the front of your trailer.
Power from the battery first goes to a manual master or
“kill” switch inside the trailer.
When the disconnect switch is turned to “use” (on)
and the trailer is plugged into a 110-volt shoreline, the
12-volt distribution panel will receive power from the
converter as the battery is charged through the con-
verter charging system. If the trailer is not plugged into
a 110-volt shoreline, the battery will supply 12-volts to
the trailer and no charging to the battery is available
since the converter is not receiving 110-volt power.
The charge in the 12-volt batteries is replenished when
towing or when plugged into 110-volt city power.
The most common failure in the exterior electrical
system is an open circuit. An open circuit is an
interruption in the current flow, which may be in either
the wire to the component or in the ground return.
The manual kill switch, 12-volt distribution panel, and
converter are located under the front sofa on most
models. Open the drawer under the sofa seat and look
on the roadside of the storage area. The kill switch and
distribution panel are mounted on a hinged panel that
lowers to access the converter.
Check the following areas for open circuits:
When the disconnect switch is turned to “store” (off)
and the trailer is plugged into a 110-volt shoreline, the
12-volt distribution panel will still receive power from
the converter, but the battery is disconnected from the
system. The battery will not be drained with the switch
in the “store” position. The converter will not charge
the battery with the switch in the “store” position
either.
1. Loose or corroded connections at lighting device.
2. Loose or corroded connections at 7 way connector.
3. Improper grounding at the lighting device.
G
On trailers without a front sofa the 12-volt distribution
panel and the kill switch is located under the computer
table. The converter is located on the roadside front wall
and can be accessed by removing cabinet drawers.
A continuity light or an ohmmeter will help you isolate
the point of the “open” on the circuit. Another cause of
failure is a short circuit usually resulting in a blown fuse
or cycling circuit breaker at the power source. The wire
coming in contact with a sharp edge usually causes a
short. The sharp edge wears the wire’s insulation away
until the “hot” wire short to ground.
The master switch should be left in the ON position
except when storing, or a mechanic may use the switch
when servicing the trailer.
The charge in the 12-volt batteries is replenished
when towing from the tow vehicle alternator through
the 7-way cord. This charge will go to the battery no
matter which position the Battery Disconnect Switch
is in.
Power from the main switch continues on to the 12-
volt distribution panel, and then to the rest of the trailer.
The 12-volt distribution panel has reset circuit breakers
Only qualified service centers and technicians should
troubleshoot and repair electrical systems.
G - 1
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ELECTRICAL
12-VOLT SYSTEM
BATTERY
Do not add water to a battery in freezing temperatures
unless the vehicle will be put to use at once, otherwise
the added water may freeze. Neglect is expensive.
Care costs little. Check your batteries regularly.
NOTICE: RECONNECT THE BATTERY CABLES
TO THE CORRECT BATTERY POSTS. The black
cable should be connected to the negative (-) post
and the red cable to the (+) post. The polarity of your
tow vehicle must also be negative (-) ground since it
must always match the trailer. Most tow vehicles are
negative grounded, but always check your vehicle
owner’s manual to be sure.
The battery (batteries) are located inside doors on the
exterior front plate of the trailer or insidie battery boxes
in the trailer A-frame.
MAINTAIN A CLEAN BATTERY TOP AND CHECK
TERMINALS AND CABLES FOR TIGHTNESS AND
CLEANLINESS. A dirty battery will dissipate its charge
through surface contamination. Clean battery top with
a damp cloth and dry thoroughly.
NOTICE: A normal battery can discharge by itself
in 30 to 40 days when not in use, therefore, IT IS
NECESSARY TO PERIODICALLY CHECK THE
BATTERY AND CHARGE IT AS IS NECESSARY.
ADD WATER TO CELLS AS NECESSARY. Check the
electrolyte level at least once a month. When you are
traveling steadily and for an extended period of time,
or if you are in climates above 90 degrees F, check the
electrolyte level about every two weeks.
The terminals should be tight and free of corrosion.
To clean terminals, neutralize with a solution of baking
soda, rinse in clear water, and dry.
We suggest checking the battery at least every two
weeks in freezing weather. The temperature at which
a battery will freeze depends on the condition of its
charge. As an example: a fully charged battery with
a specific gravity of 1.265 will not freeze until the
electrolyte temperature drops to - 71.3 degrees F, while
a discharged battery will freeze at +19 degrees F. The
following table shows the freezing points of batteries
at various specific gravity readings, temperature
corrected 80 degrees F.
NOTICE: Care must be used to make sure soda is not
allowed to enter battery cells.
WARNING: When checking or filling
the electrolyte level in the batteries, do not allow
battery electrolyte to contact skin, eyes, fabric, or
painted surfaces. The electrolyte is a sulfuric acid
solution, which could cause serious personal injury
or damage to the trailer. Wear complete splash proof
goggles and clothing protection when working with
batteries. Avoid touching your eyes while working
near batteries.
To insure maximum battery capacity on the charge
and the discharge, the battery terminals and the inside
portion of the cable connector should be scraped or
brushed until both of these surfaces are shiny bright.
The cable connectors should then be reconnected to
the battery and tightened. The complete assembly,
battery post and cable connector should be coated
with heavy body mineral grease, petroleum grease or
petroleum jell.
G
Voltage
1.265
1.250
1.200
1.100
1.150
Freezing point
-71.3 F
-62 F
NOTICE: Do not fill battery above the split ring
in filler opening. DO NOT MEASURE SPECIFIC
GRAVITY IMMEDIATELY after adding water. The
water must mix with the electrolyte by charging or
by driving a few miles.
-16 F
+5 F
+19 F
G - 2
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ELECTRICAL
in charge.
converter also charges the 12-volt battery system.
WARNING: The gases generated within
a storage battery cell may be ignited by an open
flame or spark in the vicinity of the battery. Do not
use a match or flame to provide light for checking
the level of the water.
At service stations make certain they give your battery
a slow charge because quick charges will drastically
shorten the life of the battery, as will allowing repeated
complete discharges.
The converter is energized only when the trailer is hooked
up to 120-volt city power through the shoreline.
Converter Testing
A. Confirm 120 volt power is going into converter.
B. Disconnect the 12+ wire from the master switch.
During the winter the battery should be removed from
the trailer and stored in a cool, dry place, where there
is no danger of freezing. It should be kept full of water,
cleaned and charged monthly. A battery that is allowed
to completely lose its charge will never regain its
original power or a full charge.
CONVERTER
The converter system is the interior low voltage
electrical system that enables you to use the interior
lights, fans, pumps and 12-volt appliances whether
operating on self-contained battery power or 120-volt
city power. The converter provides power to charge
the trailer battery and to operate the 12-volt interior
electrical system.
C. Using a voltmeter check voltage output between
heavy positive and negative wires coming out of
converter.
Slide the battery out onto the opened compartment
door for service and removal or take it out of the battery
box.
D. The voltage must be within 13.8 and 14.0 volts. (The
meter of the tester should be calibrated periodically.)
On rear bed models it is located under the sofa and
accessed by opening the sofa drawer. Units with slide-
outs have the converter located inside the front cabinet
on the roadside accessed by removing the drawers.
E. If converter is not within these voltages, replace it.
For battery service or replacement, go to any service
station or dealer who sells and services the make
battery installed in your trailer.
G
12V POWER CIRCUITS
The current in the converter system is 12 volts direct
current (12VDC) negative grounded.
When being towed, the 12-volt battery in your trailer is
receiving a constant charge from the car’s generator or
alternator through the seven-way connector. Your tow
vehicle’s voltage regulator controls the charge rate. It is
important to keep the seven-way connector clean. One
method is to use “Spra-Kleen”.
Front bed models have the converter installed on the
front lower portion of the pantry. Open the brown
decrative door for acces to 12-volt fuses and 110 volt
breakers.
Power sources that supply 12VDC current to the
system are as follows:
The converter provides power to the 12-volt distribution
panel by transforming 120-volt alternating current (AC)
from the shoreline into 12-volt direct current (DC).
A. Main charge line from tow vehicle
B. Trailer Battery
Whenever possible use the automatic built in converter
system for charging. The charging circuit automatically
controls the current, reducing it as the battery increases
C. Converter
While providing power to the distribution panel, the
G - 3
The power sources above are all electrically connected
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ELECTRICAL
to the 12-volt distribution breaker panel that distributes current to interior branch
circuits. The circuits provide power to operate all 12-volt DC lights, pumps, motors
and appliances.
12-VOLT EXTERIOR
7-Way Harness and Plug
The diagram on this page matchs the tow vehicle plug on an Airstream trailer. The
7-way wire is spliced to the main harness on the interior front wall of the trailer. The
connection is accessed behind the furniture in the front of the trailer. One of these
wires is not spliced onto a wire of the same color. It is the back up wire that is yellow
in the cable and black in the harness.
Running Light/Clearance-Green
Stop/Right Turn-Brown
Stop/Left Turn
Back Up-Black
License Plate
Light
Yellow
Charge Line
G
Brake-Blue
Ground
Clearance Lights,
Green
Black, 12V -
Blank
Brown, Right
Turn
Left Turn, Red
Blue, Brake
12V, White
7 Way Plug-Trailer End
G - 4
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ELECTRICAL
Wire Routing, 7-Way Plug , Battery Charge Line,
Distribution Panel
12 ga. Blue
12 ga. White
Break Away
Switch
12 ga. Red
Hitch jack
12-V Distribution Panel
12 ga. Blue
Trailer Brake System
Optional Stabilizing Jacks
12 ga. Blue Brake Wires
Left Turn, Red
12 V Kill Switch
(Manual or Electronic)
Right Turn, Brown
Running Lights, Green
6 ga. Red
Charge Line, Black
White
Back Up Lights,
Yellow
6 ga. Red
50 A. Type 2 Breaker
G
20 A. Type 2 Breaker
A
30 A. Type 2 Breaker
6 ga. Red
6 ga. Red
6 ga. Red
6 ga. Red
7-Way Plug
50 A. Type 2 Breaker
6 ga. Red
6 ga. White
50 Amp
Converter
Batteries
G - 5
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ELECTRICAL
Wire Routing, 7-Way Plug, Battery Charge Line,
Distribution Panel, Slide out Models
12 ga. Blue
12 ga. White
Break Away
Switch
12 ga. Red
Hitch jack
Slide Out
Motor Switch
12-V Distribution Panel
12 ga. Blue
Trailer Brake System
Optional Stabilizing Jacks
12 ga. Blue Brake Wires
Left Turn, Red
Right Turn, Brown
Running Lights, Green
12 V Kill Switch
6 ga. Red
6 ga. Red
Charge Line, Black
White
Back Up Lights,
Yellow
G
20 A. Type 2 Breaker
50 A. Type 2 Breaker
30 A. Type 2 Breaker
6 ga. Red
6 ga. Red
6 ga. Red
6 ga. Red
7-Way Plug
50 A. Type 2 Breaker
6 ga. Red
6 ga. White
50 Amp
Converter
Batteries
G - 6
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ELECTRICAL
12-VOLT INTERIOR
Distribution Panel, USA
The kill switch, 12-volt distribution panel, and converter are located under the front
sofa on most rear bed models. Open the drawer under the sofa seat and look on the
roadside of the storage area. The kill switch and distribution panel are mounted on a
hinged panel that lowers to access the converter. On trailers without a front sofa the
12-volt distribution panel and the kill switch is located under the computer table. The
converter is located on the roadside front wall and can be accessed by removing
cabinet drawers.
On front bed models the electronic kill switch is located on the galley by the main door.
The converter, is located on the front of the pantry cabinet. The 12-volt distribution
panel and 110-volt beakers are accessed by opening the converter‘s brown decorative
door.
Manual reset breakers protect all the 12-volt circuits. If a breaker trips, an audible click
may be heard, and the 12-volt power supply to certain systems will be cut off. The
protruding reset button can help identify the questionable breaker.
G
Reset the breaker by depressing the small rectangular button on the end of the breaker.
If the breaker trips a second time, try shutting off an item on that circuit. If the breaker
continues to trip the system affected should be checked by a qualified service center.
Canadian panels have automotive type fuses.
G - 7
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ELECTRICAL
110-VOLT ELECTRICAL SYSTEM
City Power
On rear bed models circuit breakers for the 110-volt
system are located in the roadside rear corner of the
trailer in the overhead cabinet.
WARNING: When the three-pronged plug
can be used there will be no problems with proper
polarity or grounding.
The Airstream converter system enables you to use
the lights and appliances whether operating on self-
contained battery power or hooked up to 110-volt city
power. The 12-volt light bulbs give off the same light
as regular household bulbs, so that when operating
on self-contained battery power, everything works
normally except the 110-volt convenience outlets and
110-volt appliances.
On front bed models 110-volt breakers are located
inside the converter mounted on the pantry cabinet.
they are accesses by opening the brown converter
door.
In some older parks and other locations where three
pronged outlets are not available, certain precautions
to insure proper grounding and polarity must be taken.
These precautions are listed below:
While you are connected to the 110-volt receptacle
the wiring is protected by circuit breakers in the
breaker panel. In the event of a failure of a 110-volt
circuit check your circuit breakers first. If a breaker
continues to trip after you have reset it several times,
your circuit may be overloaded with appliances or there
may be a short in the circuit, The 110-volt switch on the
water heater, with its 12 amp draw, would be one of the
easiest places to reduce the load on 110-volt circuits. If
lessening the load does not solve the problem consult
an Airstream Service Center.
1. Attach the three-pronged plug to a two-pronged
adapter. The third conductor line of this adapter has
a short wire lead, which must be grounded.
Exterior outlets for 110 volts are located on the curbside
exterior wall.
2. For proper grounding connect the short ground
lead to a grounded outlet box or to a cold water
pipe. When no water pipe is available drive a
metal rod two feet into the ground and attach the
ground lug to it, thus providing the unit with proper
grounding. To operate self-contained, simply
disconnect the power supply cable.
NOTICE: When operating with city power make very
certain that the service is 110 volt and not 220 volt.
G
The converter system is designed to maintain constant
output voltages regardless of the variances that occur in
city power systems. The transformer design eliminates
the need for complex electronic sensing systems to
charge the battery, minimizing the possibility of failures
and greatly increasing its overall reliability.
The 110-volt electrical system provides power to
operate the air conditioner, converter and 110-volt
receptacles for portable appliances. The power is
carried through the 110-volt city power flexible cord to
the 110-volt distribution panel, and then is distributed
to each appliance or receptacle.
When your trailer is hooked up to 110 volt AC the
converter system automatically charges the trailer
batteries and, if the 7-way connector is hooked up, your
tow vehicle battery as well. The speed and degree of
charge depends on how much power is used for lights
and appliances, as only the surplus goes to charging
the battery. If you are making an extended stay, then
you should, if it is available, keep your trailer hooked
up to a 110 volt current.
NOTICE: Your Airstream has a gas electric water
heater. Make sure the 110-volt water heater switch
in the bathroom is turned off when you plug your
trailer in to city power. If your plumbing and water
heater are full of water the switch may be left in the
on position.
All wire, components, and wiring methods conform to
federal and state requirements.
G - 8
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ELECTRICAL
Airstream installs a ground fault circuit interrupter to protect several outlets on the
trailer.
Typical 110
Volt Panel
When properly installed, the GFCI circuit breaker provides reliable overload and short
circuit protection PLUS protection from Ground Faults that might result from contact
with a “HOT”’ load wire and ground.
The breaker panel in your trailer has a label
installed to designate circuit specific to the
trailer.
IMPORTANT NOTE: The GFCI circuit breaker will NOT reduce shock hazard if contact
is made between a “HOT” load wire and a neutral wire or 2 “HOT” load wires.
30 Amp
Main
Each GFCI circuit breaker is calibrated to trip with a ground current of 5 milliamperes
or more. Since most persons can feel as little as 2 milliamperes, a distinct shock may
be felt if the need for protection exists. However, the shock should be of such short
duration that the effects would be reduced to less than the normally dangerous level.
However, persons with acute heart problems or other conditions that can make a
person particularly susceptible to electric shock may still be seriously injured.
Circuit 1
Circuit 2
Circuit 3
Circuit 4
Circuit 5
30 amps Service
Circuit 1, 20 amps A/C
While the GFCI circuit
breaker affords a high
degree of protection,
there is no substitute
Circuit 2, 20 amps, Bedroom, converter
Circuit 3, 15 amps, Water Heater
Circuit 4, 20 amps, Microwave
Circuit 5, GFI, Galley, Lavatory, Exterior
Outlet, Dinette, Lounge
G
Difference in
current
when ground
fault exists
for the knowledge
Positive Buss Bar
that electricity can be
ON
TRIP
OFF
dangerous when care-
lessly handled or used
without reasonable
caution.
50 Amp Service (Different Panel)
Neutral
Buss Bar
PUSH
TO
TEST
Circuit 1, 15 amps Water Heater
Circuit 2, 20 amps, Front A/C, Bedroom,
Circuit 3, 20 amps, Converter
Circuit 4, 20 amps, Microwave
Circuit 5, GFI, Galley, Lavatory, Exterior
Outlet, Dinette, Lounge
Black-Hot Lead
White-Neutral to load
Circuit 6, 20 Amps, Rear A/C
Circuit 7, 20 Amps, Bedroom TV
G - 9
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ELECTRICAL
Remote Generator Hook Up (optional equipment)
WARNING:TheGFCIcircuitbreakerprovidesprotectiononlytothecircuit
The remote generator hook up will be located on the front plate of the trailer just behind
the LPG bottles. A generator can be plugged into the 110-volt system using this plug
and a power cord supplied separately with this option.
to which it is connected. It does NOT provide protection to any other circuit.
OCCUPANT:
The system includes a automatic transfer switch to prevent a power overload if a
generator is started while the trailer’s 110-volt shoreline is plugged into a 30 amp
service. The transfer switch will automatically switch power from a shoreline source to
a generator when it senses power entering the switch from the generator. When power
is cut from the generator, the switch returns to the shoreline as its power source.
GFCI Breaker
GFCI s are proven lifesavers, however, consumers need to take a few minutes each
month to do this simple test. By taking action, you can help protect your family from
the risk of electric shock.Perform this test on the GFI Breaker each month and record
the date on the chart.
A minimum of 5.5 KW with a 30-amp breaker will be required to sufficiently power the
30 amp service.
1. With handle B in “ON” position, press PUSH TO TEST button A.
A
INVERTOR (option)
2. Handle B should move to TRIP position, indicating that GFCI
Push To
Test
breaker has opened the circuit.
B
The Inverter powers the TV and one additional labeled 110 volt receptacle. The in-
verter converts 12 volt electricity from your batteries into 110 volt power. The switch
for the inverter is located under the monitor panel. Overloading the inverter will cause
a automatic shut off to activate. Removing the load will allow the inverter to reset.
3. To restore power move handle B to “OFF” and the to “ON
Important: If handle B does not move to TRIP position when test
button is pressed, the GFCI breaker protection is not complete. If this happens,
replace GFCI breaker.
G
DOOR BELL
JAN
FEB
MAR
APR
MAY
JUN
JUL
AUG
SEP
OCT
NOV
DEC
2007
2008
2009
2010
2011
2012
The door bell module is located under the galley flip up shelf on all models except the
34 ‘, which is located under the dinette table. The module uses 4 “C” batteries. The
batteries should be removed during long periods of storage.
G - 10
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ELECTRICAL
SATELLITE ANTENNA WIRING
COAXIAL CABLE WITH CABLE HOOK UP
TV Antenna
If you compare the two drawings you’ll see wiring for a satellite dish an-
tenna is relatively simple.
Antenna Lead in
Front TV Jack
W/Booster
Satellite
Jumper Wire
Units have a faceplate with two coax cable hook-
TV
Jumper
Cable
TV
ups. The faceplate has a small coax cable jumper
running between the hook-ups to complete the cable
TV circuit when in use. To install a satellite system
use the following procedure:
Dual Coax
Faceplate
Exterior Cable TV Hook Up
1. Remove the jumper wire from the coax faceplate.
2. Hook a portable dish into the Cable TV receptacle in the roadside rear
underbelly compartment. This feeds the dish signal to the input side of
the faceplate.
COAXIAL CABLE WITH SATELLITE HOOK UP
TV Antenna
Antenna Lead in
3. Install the satellite receiver input and output into the dual coax faceplate.
Front TV Jack
W/Booster
TV
G
Satellite
Reciever
TV
To return to a cable TV system, remove the satellite receiver from the face-
plate and reinstall the jumper cable.
Dual Coax
Faceplate
Exterior Cable TV Hook Up
Satellite Antenna
G - 11
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ELECTRICAL
SOLAR PANEL
NOTICE: The Yellow wire must be fused with a 10-
amp in-line fuse at the 12-volt positive.
Airstream Travel Trailers are pre-wired for an Intermountain
Solar Technology Solar Panel/Charger Controller/Display
System. This system may be installed on your trailer as an
option. A manual on the use of the system is included with
the Airstream Owner’s Blue Delivery Case.
NOTE: All wires are identified with labels at all
locations.
The Intermountain solar panel has charge controller
that should be mounted close to the battery buss
bars as the battery leads are hooked into it to sense
the actual battery charge. The Cat 5 wire plugs into
it also.
Intermountain Solar Technologies
10288 South Jordan Gateway #D
South Jordan, UT 84095
800-671-0169
The following drawing is the way Airstream wires the
system on factory installed units and is the recom-
mended wiring for use of the pre-wire system.
1. YELLOW (like the sun) positive and GREEN (like the earth)
negative leads runs from battery breaker buss bar area to
a harness inside the exterior refrigerator access door. The
battery buss bar is located behind the sofa on front lounge
models or behind the front cabinets on slide outs, and
next to the battery compartment. Battery cables will run to
this bar. Roof mounted panels require dropping the panel
wires down through the refrigerator vent to the inside of the
exterior refrigerator access door. Portable solar panels can
be set outside close to the access door. The wires from the
solar panel are connected to the positive and negative wires
(yellow and green) of the pre-wire system.
10. Ga. Yellow
10 Ga. Green
10. Ga. Yellow
10 Ga. Green
Ground Buss
10 amp Fuse
6 Ga. Black
6 Ga. Black
Battery
G
6 Ga. Red
GRD.
Battery
6 Ga. Red
12 Ga. Black
Battery Breaker
Buss bar
12 Ga. Red
50 Amp Breaker
Red/White
Yellow
2. A Cat 5 patch cord for the solar panel display runs from
the battery buss bar to an area just below the CatCon moni-
tor display. The solar panel display panel can be mounted
just below the CatCon monitor panel by routing the proper
size hole. The Cat 5 wire is plugged into the display panel.
10 Amp Inline Fuse within
12”of battery
Solar Panel
Display
Solar Panel
Cat Five Patch Cable
G - 12
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ELECTRICAL
TV ANTENNA
Lubricating Rotating Gear Housing
Manufacturer: Winegard Company, 3000 Kirkwood Street, Burlington, Iowa 52601
In the event that rotating the antenna becomes difficult, lubricating the bearing
surface between the rotating gear housing and the base plate can restore normal
operation. Any spray type silicone lubricant may be used.
Phone: 800-843-4741
Raising Antenna
MANUAL ANTENNA
Raising Antenna to Operating Position
Turn elevating crank in “UP” direction until some
resistance to turning is noted. Antenna is now in
operating position.
Elevate antenna and remove setscrew from rotating gear housing as shown. Spray
lubricant into hole and around edges of gear housing. Rotate gear housing until
lubricant coats bearing surfaces and antenna rotates freely.
LUBRICATE HERE
Rotating Antenna
Rotating Antenna
Make sure antenna is in “UP” position. Pull down on
directional handle with both hands until it disengages
ceiling plate and rotate for best picture and sound on
television set.
REMOVE SET SCREW
SPRAY AROUND EDGES
Lowering Antenna to Travel Position
Motorized Anenna- See manual included with Owner’s packet
Lowering Antenna
Rotate antenna until pointer on directional handle
aligns with pointer on ceiling plate. Turn elevat-
ing crank in the “Down” direction until resistance is
noted. Antenna is now locked in travel position.
TV Booster/12 Volt Outlet
G
The TV booster amplifies the signal from the TV antenna. Pushing the small button
activates and deactivates the booster. A green light comes on when the booster
is activated. For viewing while hooked up to an exterior cable TV source, turn the
TV Outlet
WARNING: Antenna must be in “down” position while traveling to
prevent property damage.
booster off.
w/Booster &
12 Outlet
NOTE: The TV Booster must be on to
receive antenna signals and off for cable
TV operation.
Lubrication
12 V
Outlet
To lubricate the elevating gear apply a liberal amount of silicone spray lubricant to the
elevating gear with the lift in the down position, then run the lift up and down a few
times to distribute lubricant over gears.
Light
Booster
Switch
Please review the antenna and booster
manuals include in your owner’s packet
before operating the system.
TV Cable
Hook Up
G - 13
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ELECTRICAL
LAVATORY EXHAUST FAN W/POWER LIFT LID
window the greatest distance from your Fan-Tastic
Vent ceiling fan,
on using the wall switch and the Thermostat is also
located on the wall by the Power switch.
The lavatory may have an exhaust fan that is operated
by two wall switches. One switch will open the power
lift lid and the other will operate the fan.
1) Activate appliance by rotating SPEED CONTROL
knob to desired performance lever (3-Low, 2-Medium,
1-High, O-Off)
CLEANING INSTRUCTIONS:
1) Turn fan motor Off.
SHOWER FAN
2) Remove 8 painted flat head Phillips screws around
perimeter of screen insert only.
2) Open dome approx. 3” or more with the DOME
rocker switch (ceiling fan has a built in safety switch
that will not allow motor to operate unless dome is
partially open).
The round bath exhaust is operated by pushing up on
the handle to raise the fan lid. A push button switch will
activate the fan.
3) Clean screen with soap & water solution and reinstall.
BACK UP CAMERA PRE-WIRE
HIGH VOLUME ROOF VENT
3) Select desired temperature or comfort level by
rotating the THERMOSTAT knob. Fan motor will now
start & stop automatically as interior temperature of
coach exceeds or drops below selected level.
Your trailer has a 2-pin power connector pre-wired into
the running light 12-volt system for the installation of a
Power Line Vision System made by Power Linx. For more
information on this system contact PowerLinx at their
Manufacturer:
FAN-TASTIC VENT CORP. 2083 S. Almont Ave. Imlay
City, MI 48444 1-313-742-0330 1-800-521-0298
NOTE:Fanmotorwillnotstartiftemperatureselected
is warmer than interior temperature of coach.
Airstream installs two types of fans. One has the switch
mounted on the fan, the other has the switch mounted
on the wall. The optional High-volume roof vent system
is designed to quickly exhaust stale, hot air and draw in
fresh air. It’s great to use when the outside temperature
really doesn’t call for air conditioning, but heat has built
up in your coach.
WIRELESS SPEAKER (Optional)
G
4) Turn the POWER rocker switch on.
Your trailer may have wireless speakers. An operating
guide is included with each kit. A switch labeled
in/out/both is pre-wired into every trailer by the radio
for this option. This switch is only operational if the
Wirless Speaker option in installed in the trailer.
NOTICE: Never place Lindeen™ or a like cover over
ceiling fan. Greatly restricted airflow & increased
sound levels will occur.
OPERATING INSTRUCTIONS
(switch mounted on fan):
A built-in manual knob can be used to close the dome
in an emergency, to adjust the dome to a desired
partially open level or to override the rain sensor.
OPERATING INSTRUCTIONS (Wall Mounted switch)
Operating instructions are basically as above except
Dome will lift automatically when appliance is turned
SATELLITE RADIO (OPTION)
The travel trailer may be equipped with a satellite radio.
This system is integrated with the entertainment system
on the trailer. The system owner’s manual is included
with the packet from your dealer.
Open a window or door for airflow, source of airflow
is determined by the window(s) or door(s) opened.
For best results, close all roof vents and open 1 (one)
G - 14
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ELECTRICAL
MONITOR PANEL
The monitor system has been calibrated at the factory
and should never need another calibration. If you feel
the system is not operating correctly, please contact
CATCON Products or a local Airstream dealer. The
following instructions are provided for qualified
service technicians.
NORMAL OPERATION
Micropulse Systems Monitor
CATCON PRODUCTS INC.
817-921-2188
The MicroPulse Monitor will display the condition of
each system at all times. The tricolor LED beside the
system will indicate the condition of the system using
the following color code.
MICROPULSE SYSTEMS MONITOR
OPERATION INSTRUCTIONS
Fresh Water, LP Gas, Battery are as follows:
Green LED = 3/8 to Full
Yellow LED = 1/4
This example shows the monitor reporting the
following:
Red LED = 1/8 to Empty
Gray Water, Black Water are as follows:
Green LED = Empty to 5/8
Yellow LED = 3/4
Monitor Display
Fresh Water
Gray Water 1
Gray Water 2
R
G
Y
Red LED = 7/8 to Full
The MicroPulse System makes use of a single solid-
state sensor per tank. The MicroPulse sensor measures
the static (head) pressure at the bottom of the tank and
transmits this information to the MicroPulse System
Monitor. Knowing this pressure value, after a one-
time calibration has been performed, the MicroPulse
System will calculate and accurately display the tank
level in 1/8 increment.
TO OBTAIN EXACT READING
G Black Water
Y
G
LP Gas
Battery
G
To obtain an exact reading of all systems press and
release the status button one time. The monitor will
flash the LED beside the system it is about to report. It
will than display the exact condition of that system by
lighting the bar graph from Empty to Full. The monitor
will display the exact condition of each system and
then return to normal operation mode.
Fresh Water = 1/8 to Empty
Gray Water 1 = Empty to 5/8
Gray Water 2 = 3/4
A single sensor is installed on the sidewall of each tank,
near the bottom, via a 3/4” female NPT spin-in thread.
The sensor is solid state, there are no moving parts to
wear or maintain. Because the principle of operation
does not involve any electrical current flow through the
tanks contents (conducted or induced), the nature of
the fluid in the tank is unimportant.
Black Water = Empty to 5/8
LP Gas = 1/4
Toobtainanexactreadingofanindividualsystempressand
release the status button until the LED beside the system
that you want the condition of is lit. Release the status
button and the monitor will display the exact condition of
that system by lighting the bar graph from Empty
Battery = Empty to 5/8
On all diagrams the Letters R=Red, Y=Yellow,
G=Green, Blank=no LED lit.
G - 15
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APPLIANCES
APPLIANCES
appliances and equipment. The burner and burner
orifice of the propane gas appliances and equipment
may not be capable of operating the air conditioner on
some receptacles, Parking your trailer so the power
All appliances are delivered to Airstream Inc. with in depth
Owner’s Manuals. Those manuals are included in the
delivery case supplied by your dealer. The manuals may
contain warnings, cautions, and operating instruction
should be cleaned out by an authorized dealer or cord can be plugged into a receptacle close to the fuse
repair facility anytime circumstances or conditions or circuit breaker box can alleviate the problem. Avoid
warrant., but no less than on an annual basis.
extension cords and adapters whenever possible. If an
extension cord must be used it should be as short and
heavy as possible to provide the most current to the air
conditioner.
that should be read and followed before operating the AIR CONDITIONER
appliances. The information contained in the appliances
manuals supersedes any information contained in the
Airstream Trailer Owner’s Manual on appliances. If
you believe contradictory information on appliances is
Manufacturer:
Dometic Sales Corporation
2320 Industrial Parkway
If high temperatures are expected, you should make an
effort to park in a shaded area. Starting the air conditioner
early in the morning also helps. It is much easier to hold a
comfortabletemperaturethanitistolowerthetemperature
after the interior of the trailer is already hot.
contained in this manual, please contact the Airstream P.O. Box 490
Customer Service Department at 937-596-6111 or write:
Elkhart, IN 46515
Phone: 219-295-5228
Airstream Factory Service Center,
P.O. Box 629
Note: Review the air conditioning literature supplied in
419 W. Pike Street
your Owner’s Packet before proceeding,
Jackson Center, Ohio 45334-0629
The roof air conditioner used on Airstream trailers is one
of the most popular on the market today. In your Owner’s
If any appliance manuals have not been provided with
your trailer, contact your dealer, the respective appliance Packet is a set of literature covering all operating and
manufacturer, or Airstream Customer Service. A manual
will be provided to you.
maintenance instructions. If the literature is misplaced
please contact the air conditioner manufacturer or your
Airstream dealer for replacement.
H
Maintenance: Follow the instructions and warnings noted
in the appliances and equipment owner’s manuals as well
as the ones listed below:
The voltage to the air conditioner is critical. We commonly
refer to 110 or 120 volts, but a check with a voltmeter
may find voltage much lower. Your air conditioner will
•
•
Annual maintenance should be conducted on probably not function if the current drops below 105
propane gas appliances and equipment by an
authorized dealer or repair facility.
volts. Low voltage is usually associated with older or
poorly maintained trailer parks, but many people have
Insects can build nests in the burners of various found their homes, built only twenty or thirty years ago,
H - 1
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APPLIANCES
FURNACE
RANGE
MICROWAVE OVENS
Manufacturers: Dometic Sales Corporation
Manufacturer:
Hydro Flame Corporation 1874
Manufacturer:
Magic Chef
South Pioneer Road
28812 Phillips Street
Elkhart, Indiana 46514
219-264-9578
2320 Industrial Parkway
P.O. Box 490
Salt Lake City, UT 84104
Phone: 801-972-4621
Elkhart, IN 46515
219-295-5228
The manufacturer of the furnace in your trailer is well
known in the RV industry. The furnace burns LP gas, and
is powered by 12 volt current from the battery or power
converter when plugged into city power. Operating
instructions are located in your Owners Packet. If
they should become misplaced new literature can be
ordered direct from the manufacturer or your Airstream
dealer. The manufacturer also offers a detailed service
guide for your furnace.
People using gas ranges in their home will find little
difference in the operation of the range in the trailer.
or
Sharp Electronics Corporation
10 Sharp Plaza
Other customers, used to electric ranges may be a little
apprehensive at first; but will quickly gain confidence.
The basic operation of the gas ranges have been the
same for many years, but please be sure to read all the
directions furnished by the manufacturer and located
in the Owner’ s Packet. Excellent service and parts
manuals are available from the manufacturer.
Paramus, New Jersey 07652
201-5112-0055
Only federally certified technicians are permitted to
service microwave ovens. For this reason the only
service instructions contained in this manual are for
removal of the complete oven. If you have a microwave
oven problem please contact the appropriate
manufacturer, an authorized Airstream dealer, or the
Factory Customer Service Department.
WARNING: Carefully read all the
manufacturer’s
instructions prior to operating.
NOTICE: The range exhaust cover on the outside
the trailer has a swinging door that can be latched
during inclement weather and should be latched
in travel. When operating the exhaust fan, the
latches should be turned so the door swings open
when the fan is on.
NEVER store flammable material next to the
furnace.
Both microwave ovens can be removed for service by
removing the screws in the vented trim ring. The trim
rings are fastened to microwave oven. After removing
the screws, pull straight out on the oven until the 110-
volt plug can be unplugged.
If warranty service is required use only a service
location recommended by the furnace manufacturer
or your Airstream dealer.
H
WARNING: The operation manual for the
range is titled “Maytag RV Cooking Appliances”. If
this has not been provided with your trailer, contact
the manufacturer listed at the top of the page to
obtain. Their manual contains specialized warnings
and cautions that should be reviewed prior to
operating the appliance.
H - 2
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APPLIANCES
REFRIGERATOR
Manufacturer:
When the vehicle is moving the leveling is not critical, as
the rolling and pitching movement of the vehicle will pass
to either side of level, keeping the liquid ammonia from
accumulating in the evaporator tubing.
Dometic Sales Corporation 2320
Industrial Parkway P.O. Box 490
Elkhart, Indiana 46514
Phone: 219-295-5228
OPERATION
Review all Dometic Literature supplied in your Owner’s
Packet or stored in the refrigerator prior to operating.
The refrigerator requires 12-volt current to operate even
if running on LP or 110 volt modes. The 12-volt is used
to power the circuit board that directs the refrigerator
functions. When running in a mode such as LP, it means
the heat source, by far the largest power requirement;
In an absorption refrigerant system ammonia is liquefied in
the finned condenser coil at the top rear of the refrigerator.
The liquid ammonia then flows into the evaporator (inside to evaporate the ammonia is being provided by an LP
the freezer section) and is exposed to a circulating flow of Gas burner.
hydrogen gas, which causes the ammonia to evaporate,
creating a cold condition in the freezer.
WARNING: Most LP gas appliances used
The tubing in the evaporator section is specifically sloped
to provide a continuous movement of liquid ammonia,
in recreational vehicles are vented to the outside of
the vehicle. When parked close to a gasoline pump, it
flowing downward by gravity, through this section. If the is possible that gasoline fumes could enter this type
refrigerator is operated out-of-level when the vehicle is
of appliance and ignite the burner flame, CAUSING A
H
not moving, liquid ammonia will accumulate in portions FIRE OR AN EXPLOSION.
of the evaporator tubing. This will slow the circulation
of hydrogen and ammonia gas, or in severe cases,
completely block it, resulting in a loss of cooling.
Any time the vehicle is parked for several hours with
the refrigerator operating the vehicle should be leveled
to prevent this loss of cooling. The vehicle needs to be
leveled only so it is comfortable to live in (no noticeable
sloping of floor or walls).
H - 3
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APPLIANCES
WATER HEATER
Electronic Ignition
SAFETY
Manufacturer:
The switches used to light your electronic ignition water
heater are located in the bathroom above the lavatory
top. When the gas switch is turned on, the red light will
come on indicating the “try” mode is in effect. Normally
the burner will ignite in just a few seconds, and the
light will go out. If your LP system hasn’t been used
for some time, the system may go into safety lockout
(about 20 seconds) before the air is all expelled from
the lines. Turning the switch off for 30 seconds, then
back on, reinstates the “try” mode.
If your water system is full and cold and the water
heater is ignited the system can see pressures as high
as 120 psi before the relief valve starts to open. Since
the water system normally operates in the 40-psi range
the water expanding does put unusual stress on the
system. This normally does not cause any problems,
but the stress is easily alleviated. As the water is heating
just open any faucet and run as little as a cup of water.
Just removing this small amount of water reduces the
pressure build up significantly.
Atwood Mobile Products 4750
Hiawatha Drive P.O. Box 1205
Rockford, Illinois 61105
Phone: 815-877-7461
Note: Review the water heater literature supplied in
your Owner’s Packet before proceeding,
A second switch for the water heater is also located on
the panel. This provides power to the heating element.
DO NOT use unless you are sure the water heater is
full. (Open a faucet and see if there is a full stream of
water on the hot side)
For fun, watch the sequence of events your family goes
through when you park the trailer and ignite the water
heater. More than likely someone will run water and
relieve the pressure without even realizing it.
110 Volt
Gas
WARNING:Hydrogengascanbeproduced
in a hot water system served by this heater that has
not been used for a long period of time (generally
two weeks or more). Hydrogen gas is extremely
flammable. To reduce the risk of injury under
these conditions, it is recommended that the hot
water faucet he opened for several minutes at the
kitchen sink before using any electrical appliance
connected to the hot water system. If hydrogen is
present there will probably be an unusual sound
such as air escaping through the pipe as the water
begins to flow. There should be no smoking or open
flame near the faucet at the time it is open.
The 110-volt element may be operated at the same
time as the gas burner. To operate the 110-volt by itself
simply turn the electronic gas igniter switch off.
H
The heating element is 1500 watts so if breakers start
to kick out when the air conditioner cycles you may
want to turn the switch off to the heating element.
H - 4
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SPECIFICATIONS
SPECIFICATIONS
Axle Alignment:
Hitch Ball Height
Toe In
0 - 1/8” (All Models)
Note: All weights were made on prototype vehicles.
Your production trailer may vary. For the weight
specifications of your specific trailer read the weight
label and check the manufacturing tag on the side of
your trailer. For label location, see information under
“Loading” section of this manual.
Camber 0 - 1 _ ° positive (All Models)
The proper height will vary according to the weight
you carry and the tires you use. However, checking the
height on your trailer is relatively easy:
Battery
12 Volt Deep cycle (All Models)
1. With trailer on fairly level ground measure from
ground to bottom of frame, front and rear.
Tire Size
The Unit Base Weight (UBW) and the Net Carrying
Capacity (NCC) is not the same as the Unloaded
Vehicle Weight (UVW) and the Cargo Carrying Capacity
(CCC) shown on the Trailer Weight Information tag in
your vehicle.
ST225/75R15 (All Models)
2. Adjust front jack until measurements are equal
Tire Inflation (PSI) Cold
ST225/75RI5 LRD 65 psi
3. Now measure from ground to the inside top of ball
coupler. This figure is the hitch height. The hitch ball
is then usually set _” to 1” higher, according to the
spring weight of your tow vehicle, to allow for it to
settle when the trailer is hitched up.
Wheel Torque
The UBW and NCC weights are for the base unit with
no options and fluids. The UVW and CCC on the Trailer
Weight Information tag are weights for the individual
vehicle as built with its options and certain water
capacities.
Aluminum - 100 Ft. Lbs.
Steel - 95 Ft, Lbs.
Gross Vehicular Weight Rating (GVWR): is the
maximum permissible weight of this trailer when fully
loaded. It includes all weight at the trailer axle (s) and
tongue or pin.
Unit Base weight (UBW): is the dry weight of the base
I
unit with bedroom group and w/o options or fluids.
Net Carrying Capacity (NCC): is equal to GVWR-UBW.
Gross Axle Weight Rating (GAWR): is the value specified
as the load carrying capacity of a single axle system, as
measured at the tire-ground interfaces.
I - 1
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SPECIFICATIONS
31’ W/
MODEL
25’ FB
27’ FB
30’
30’ S/O
30’ FB
34’
34’ S/O
DINETTE
EXTERIOR LENGTH
25’ 9”
27’ 9.5”
31’
31’
30’
31’
34’ 10”
34’ 10”
*8’ 5½”
*10’ 1” with slide
extended.
*8’ 5½”
*10’ 1” with slide
extended.
EXTERIOR WIDTH
8’ 5½”
8’ 5½”
8’ 5½”
8’ 5½”
8’ 5½”
8’ 5½”
INTERIOR WIDTH
EXTERIOR HEIGHT W / AC
INTERIOR HEIGHT W / AC
HITCH BALL HEIGHT
FRESH WATER (GAL.)
GRAY WATER (GAL.)
BLACK WATER (GAL)
HITCH WEIGHT (LBS.)
GVWR (LBS.)
8’ 1”
9’ 7½”
6’ 3½”
18 ¾”
39
8’ 1”
9’ 7½”
6’ 3½”
18 ¾”
54
8’ 1”
9’ 7½”
6’ 3½”
18 ¾”
54
8’ 1”
9’ 7½”
6’ 3½”
19 ¾”
54
8’ 1”
9’ 7½”
6’ 3½”
18 ¾”
54
8’ 1”
9’ 7½”
6’ 3½”
18 ¾”
54
8’ 1”
9’ 7½”
6’ 3½”
18 ¾”
54
8’ 1”
9’ 7½”
6’ 3½”
19 ¾”
54
37
37
37
37
39
37
37
37
39
39
39
39
37
39
39
39
780
790
670
1,050
10,300
2,360
7,940
TBD
10,000
TBD
TBD
760
770
1,150
11,500
3,253
8,247
8,000
2,100
5,900
9,000
2475
6,525
10,000
2,905
7,095
10,000
2,950
7,050
11,500
3,642
7,858
I
NCC
UBW (LBS.)
I - 2
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INDEX
Air Conditioner ................................................. H-1
Alignment .................................................. D-6, I-1
Antennas ......................................... G11, G-13, I-1
Appliances........................................................ H-1
Axles..........................................................A-3, D-6
Awning...............................................................D-2
Connector
7-Way .......................................... B-5, G-4, G-8
Factory Service ................................................A-4
Fans.........................................................E-4, G-14
Faucets..............................................................F-7
Fill Valves, LPG..................................................F-1
Filter, Water........................................................F-7
Fire Extinguisher................................................E-8
Flat Tire..............................................................D-5
Furnace .................................................... C-7, H-2
Fuses........................................ A-7, C-9, G-1, G-7
110-volt ....................................................... C-6
Couch................................................................E-2
Countertop ........................................................E-2
Coupler..............................................................D-3
Curtains.............................................................E-2
Control Panel....................................E-3, F-4, F-13
Backing ...........................................................B-14
Back up camera pre-wire............................... G-14
Battery........................................................G-2, I-1
Bath Exhaust.................................................. G-14
Bathroom...........................................................E-2
Bearing ..............................................................D-8
Black Tank Flush .............................................F-13
Bottles, LP................................................. A-6, F-1
Brake Controller ................................................B-4
Brakes ...............................................................B-1
Breakaway Switch.............................................B-3
Bulbs .........................................................A-7, G-8
Dimensions......................................................... I-2
Dinette...............................................................E-3
Doors
Galley......................................................... E-2, E-4
Gas, LP......................................................C-7, F-1
Main...............................................................D-2
Screen ...........................................................D-2
Door Bell......................................................... G-10
Drain Valves.....................................................F-10
Drainage ..........................................................F-10
Drapes...............................................................E-2
Dump Valves....................................................F-12
Gas Regulator ...................................................F-2
Grey Tank (Aux) .........................................F-12, I-2
Ground Fault Interrupter................................... G-9
Grounding................................................. G-1, G-9
GVWR......................................................... B-9, I-2
GAWR......................................................... B-9, I-2
Generator, remote hook up ............................ G-10
Camping........................................................... C-1
Carpet................................................................E-2
Capacities........................................................... I-2
Cargo.................................................................B-9
Caution................................................ Introduction
Chassis..............................................................D-3
Check List ........................................................ C-1
City Water Hook-Up..................................C-5, F-6
Cleaning ............................................................D-1
Circuit Breakers................................................ G-8
Coaxial Cable Wiring...................................... G-11
Condensation................................................... C-7
Converter.................................................. G-3, G-8
Electrical........................................................... G-1
12 Volt..................................................... G-2
110 Volt................................................... G-8
Circuit Breakers............................................. G-7
Diagrams
Hitch..................................A-3, B-1, B-11, D-3, I-2
Hitching Up .....................................................B-11
Hitch Weight............................................. B-11, I-2
Holding Tanks............................................F-12, I-2
Hitch Ball Height........................... D-3, F-1, I-1, I-2
Humidity ........................................................... C-7
12 Volt..................................................... G-7
110 Volt................................................... G-9
7-Way Cable........................................... G-4
Cable TV.................................................... G-11
Escape Window.................................C-3, D-2, E-8
Exhaust Fans...........................................E-4, G-13
Extended Stay.................................................. C-4
Exterior Maintenance ........................................D-1
Interior ...............................................................E-1
Inverter, TV ..................................................... G-10
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INDEX
Jacks ................................................................ C-4
Stabilizing.................................................... C-4
Tire Changing ...............................................D-5
Regulator, LP.....................................................F-2
Roof Vents...............................................E-4, G-14
Rotation, Tire.....................................................D-6
TV Antenna........................................... G-11, G-13
Upholstery.........................................................E-1
Valves, Drain....................................................F-10
Vents........................................................E-4, G-14
Warning ............................................... Introduction
Warranty ............................................................A-1
Washing.............................................................D-1
Waste System .................................................F-12
Water System....................................................F-4
Drainage .....................................................F-12
Filter, Faucet.................................................F-7
Heater.................................. E-4, F-4, F-6, F-10
Inlet Connection .......................................... C-6
Pump.............................................E-3, F-4, F-6
Strainer.........................................................F-4
Tank................................................ F-6, F-4, I-2
Valves .............................................F-4, F-10, F-12
Waxing...............................................................D-1
Weight ...............................................................B-9
Weight Distribution............................................B-9
Wheel
Lavatory.............................................................E-2
Length, Trailer..................................................... I-2
Leveling ............................................................ C-5
Lights.........................................................E-4, G-8
Loading..............................................................B-9
Lounge ..............................................................E-2
LP Bottles..........................................................F-1
LP Gas.......................................................C-7, F-1
LP Gas Detector................................................E-7
Lug Nut Torquing.............................................D-14
Safety .........................A-4, B-3, C-3, E-5, F-3, H-1
Sanitizing...........................................................F-5
Satellite Radio System ................................... G-11
Screens .....................................................D-2, E-8
Service...............................................................A-4
7-Way Connector ............................................. G-4
Sewer Hose.....................................................F-13
Shower ..............................................................E-2
Sink....................................................................E-2
Slide-out Room ................................................ C-9
Smoke Alarm.....................................................E-7
Sofa ...................................................................E-2
Solar Panel ..................................................... G-12
Specifications..................................................... I-1
Stabilizing......................................................... C-5
Step...................................................................D-2
Storage.................................................... E-4, F-10
Stove ................................................................ H-2
Suspension........................................................D-6
Sway, Controlling.............................................B-14
Maintenance Parts ............................................A-7
Maintenance Record .........................................A-5
Maintenance Schedule......................................A-7
Microwave........................................................ H-2
Mold ................................................................. C-8
Monitor Panel ................................ F-4, F-13, G-15
Oven................................................................. H-2
Overnight Stop ................................................. C-4
Torque...................................................A-5, D-5
Alignment .............................................. D-6, I-1
Bearings .......................................................D-8
Parking ....................................................B-14, C-4
Passing............................................................B-13
Plumbing ...........................................................F-1
Power Cord .............................................. C-6, G-8
Power Jack........................................................D-4
Table..................................................................E-3
Tires............................................................ D-5, I-1
Tongue Latch.....................................................D-3
Tongue Weight.......................................... B-11, I-2
Toilet ................................................................F-14
Towing ...............................................................B-1
Tow Car .............................................................B-1
TV ................................................. C-6, G-10, G-11
Windows....................................................D-2, E-8
Winter Traveling................................................ C-7
Winterizing.......................................................F-11
Wiring ................................................See Electrical
Range ............................................................... H-2
Refrigerator....................................................... H-3
Classic Trailer Owner’s Manual
©AIRSTREAM INC. 2007
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