Airstream Nterstate Users Manual 2007_Interstate_OM

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2015-02-05

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A MOTORHOME GUIDE
AIRSTREAM
OWNERS
MANUAL
INTERSTATE
INTRODUCTION 2007 INTERSTATE
The Owners Manual for your new Airstream Motorhome is designed to respond to
the most frequent inquiries regarding the operation, function and care of the many
systems that make modern motor homing a joy.
The Airstream Interstate Motorhome is integrated into a Sprinter Van, designed and
manufactured by Daimler/Chrysler. Operation of the Sprinter, its engine, power train,
and other related components are discussed in the Sprinter Operator’s Manual and
other literature provide by Daimler/Chrysler. As a point of reference, those systems
discussed in the Daimler/Chrysler literature are warranted by Daimler/Chrysler or their
suppliers.
Airstream realizes our customers possess varying degrees of expertise in the area
of repairing and maintaining the appliances in their motorhome. For this reason, the
service and trouble-shooting information found in this manual is directed toward those
with average mechanical skills. We also realize you may be more familiar in one area
than you are in another. Only you know your capabilities and limitations.
We want you to use this manual, and hope you will find the information contained in it
useful, however, should you ever feel you may be “getting in over your head” please
see your dealer to have the repairs made.
The operation and care of component parts such as, refrigerator, furnace, water heater
and others are briefly explained in this manual. However, you will also find the complete
manufacturer’s information supplied in a packet included with this manual.
Note: All information, illustrations and specifications contained in the literature are
based on the latest product information available at the time of publication approval.
Airstream reserves the right to make changes if and when new materials and/or
production techniques are developed that can improve the quality of its product, or
when material substitutions are necessary due to availability.
INTRODUCTION
WARNING indicates a potentially hazardous situation that, if not avoided,
could result in death or serious injury.
CAUTION indicates a potentially hazardous situation that, if not avoided,
could result in minor or moderate injury.
DANGER indicates an imminently hazardous situation that, if not avoided,
will result in death or injury.
CAUTION used without the safety alert symbol indicates a potentially hazardous
situation that, if not avoided, could result in property damage.
NOTE: Important information regarding the maintenance of your recreational vehicle.
(Optional)
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.
NOTICE: Your Sprinter Van Operator’s and Warranty Manuals contain important
cautions, warnings, operational, and warranty information on the Sprinter and
its components. All information in the Sprinter manual should be reviewed and
followed for your safety. The Airstream Interstate Owner’s Manual may provide
addition information and tips on the use of the Van as a motorhome, however, no
information in the Airstream manual should be interpreted as advice or directions
to disregard or void the warnings, cautions, or other information contained in the
Sprinter’s manuals.
Important Safety Precautions
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.
Mold (See page D-10)
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.
Towing and Weight Distribution (See section B of this manual)
Weight distribution is an important factor when loading your motorhome. A recreational
vehicle with the cargo distributed properly will result in efficient, trouble-free towing.
Be sure to follow the instructions in this manual.
Generator Safety (See page H-14)
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.
Appliances and Equipment (See LP section on G-1 and Appliances on page I-1)
The appliances (stove, refrigerator, outdoor grills, 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 (see
LP Plumbing section) as well as the specific owners’ manuals of the appliances and
equipment.
INTRODUCTION 2007 INTERSTATE
Tire Safety (See pages C-3 through B-11 and the Tire Safety Manual Addendum)
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
INTRODUCTION
Medical Advice
If you have any questions regarding the health effects of formaldehyde, please consult
your doctor or local health department.
NOTICE: Your Sprinter Van Operator’s and Warranty Manuals contain important
cautions, warnings, operational, and warranty information on the Sprinter and
its components. All information in the Sprinter manual should be reviewed and
followed for your safety. The Airstream Interstate Owner’s Manual may provide
addition information and tips on the use of the Van as a motorhome, however, no
information in the Airstream manual should be interpreted as advice or directions
to disregard or void the warnings, cautions, or other information contained in the
Sprinter’s manuals.
INTRODUCTION 2007 INTERSTATE
NOTES
TABLE OF CONTENTS
A. WARRANTY AND SERVICE
Warranty
Warranty Explanation
Service
Reporting Safety Defects
Maintenance Schedule
B. DRIVING
Loading
Weighing
Safety Check List
Seat Belts
Trailer Towing & Driving Tips
Weighing the Motorhome
C. SPRINTER VAN
Component Identification
Tire/Wheels
Changing a Tire
Installing a Wheel
D. CAMPING
Camping Safety
Smoke Alarm
LP Gas Alarm
Overnight Stop
Winter Traveling
Extended Stay
E. EXTERIOR
Cleaning
Roadside Exterior Features
Curbside Exterior Features
Awning
F. INTERIOR FURNISHINGS
AND ACCESSORIES
Lounge, Dinette
Vinyl Flooring
Counters/Cabinets
Wet Bath
Interior Skin
Fabric
Drape/Shades
G. PLUMBING
LP (Liquid Petroleum) Gas
Water System
Water Pump
City Water Hookup
Exterior Water Service
Faucets
Drain Valve Locations
Toilet
Storage and Winterizing
Drainage/Waste System
H. ELECTRICAL
Battery Disconnect
Power Center
12-volt Operation
Interior Lights
Monitor System
TV Antenna
Entertainment Center
Satellite System
Telephone Jack
I. 110-Volt System
110-Volt Power
Switch-over Box
Shorts and Opens
Solar Panel Pre-wire
J. APPLIANCES
Air Conditioner
Furnace
Refrigerator
Range
Microwave Oven
Water Heater
Power Roof Vent
K. SPECIFICATIONS
Coach
Chassis
L. INDEX
A
WARRANTY AND SERVICE
A - 1
AIRSTREAM LIMITED WARRANTY
WARRANTY COVERAGE
Airstream, Inc. (“Airstream”) warrants that it will repair or replace defects in material or
workmanship in any components of a new Airstream motorhome purchased from an
authorized Airstream dealer in the United States or Canada for 36,000 miles (57,937
Kilometers) or a period of thirty-six (36) months from the date the motorhome is first
delivered to the original retail purchaser, which ever comes first. In order to obtain cov-
erage 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 obligation 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.
LIMITATION OF IMPLIED WARRANTIES
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.
WHAT IS NOT COVERED BY THIS LIMITED WARRANTY
This Limited Warranty does not provide coverage for any of the following:
(1) Generator; House Battery;
(2) The chassis of the motorhome and its components, which is warranted by its re-
spective manufacturer and is administered separately from this Limited Warranty;
(3) Any part or component of the motorhome that was not manufactured or installed
by Airstream;
(4) Normal deterioration due to wear or exposure, including but not limited to rust and
cosmetic blemishes;
(5) Normal maintenance and service items, including but not limited to light bulbs,
fuses, lubricants, sealants and seals, slideout adjustments, door adjustments, and
awing tension;
(6) After-market equipment or accessories installed on the motorhome after comple-
tion of manufacture by Airstream, or any defects or damage caused by such items;
(7) 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 motorhome.
c. Alteration or modification of the motorhome 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.
e. Failure to properly maintain or service the motorhome, including but not
limited to the maintenance of lubricants, sealants, and seals.
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 motorhome other than for temporary recreation purposes,
including but not limited to use of the motorhome for residential,
commercial, or rental purposes.
h. The addition of weight to the motorhome that causes the motorhome’s
total weight to exceed applicable motorhome weight ratings, or addition of
weight causing improper distribution of the weight of the motorhome.
i. Failure to seek repairs in a timely manner.
j. Failure to use reasonable efforts to mitigate damage caused by defects.
A
A - 2
WARRANTY AND SERVICE
DISCLAIMER OF INCIDENTAL AND CONSEQUENTIAL DAMAGES
Airstream hereby disclaims any and all incidental and consequential damages arising
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.
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
In order to obtain warranty service under this Limited Warranty, the owner must do all
of the following:
1. Complete and return the Owner Registration Card within 10 days from delivery of
the motorhome;
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 motorhome to an authorized Airstream dealer or Airstream for
repairs.
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 follow-
ing address, specifying: (1) the complete serial number of the motorhome; (2) the
date of original 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.
AIRSTREAM, INC.
419 West Pike Street
P.O. Box 629
Jackson Center, Ohio 45334-0629
Attention: Owner Relations Department
Airstream may direct you to an authorized Airstream dealer, or may request that you
bring your motorhome to the Airstream factory in Jackson Center, Ohio for repairs.
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 motorhome for any warranty service shall be the sole
responsibility of the owner.
DEALER REPRESENTATIONS EXCLUDED
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.
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 comple-
tion and return to Airstream of a transfer application form. Transfer application forms
are available from your dealer or Airstream’s Service Administration Department.
A
WARRANTY AND SERVICE
A - 3
CHANGES IN DESIGN
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 ad-
ditional features in your motorhome.
CONSUMER ARBITRATION PROGRAM
Airstream, Inc. participates in the consumer Arbitration Program for Recreational
Vehicle (CAP-RV). This third-party dispute resolution program is available, at no charge
to you, to settle unresolved warranty disputes for recreational vehicles. This dispute
resolution program reviews eligible product and service related complaints involving
warranty covered components.
To find out more about this program, or to request an application/brochure, please call
the Arbitration Administration office toll-free 800.279.5343.
For recreational vehicles purchased in the State of California: The CAP-RV program
operates as a certified mechanism under the review of the California Arbitration
Certification Program. You must utilize the arbitration program before claiming rights
conferred by 15 USC section 2310 (Uniform Commercial Code) or Civil Code section
1793.22(b) (Son-Beverly Warranty Act). You are not required to use the program if you
choose to seek redress by pursuing rights and remedies not created by those laws.
THIS WARRANTY GIVES YOU SPECIFIC LEGAL RIGHTS, AND YOU MAY ALSO
HAVE OTHER RIGHTS WHICH VARY FROM STATE TO STATE.
AIRSTREAM, INC.
419 West Pike Street
P.O. Box 629
Jackson Center, OH 45334-0629
Tele: 937-596-6111
Fax: 937-596-6539
E-mail: www.airstream.com
WARRANTY EXPLANATION
Along with your new Airstream motorhome, you have purchased the Airstream Limited
Warranty. Read your Limited Warranty carefully. It contains the entire agreement with
respect to Airstream’s obligation on the Limited Warranty on your new vehicle. The
terms of the Limited Warranty, and only those terms, will define Airstream’s responsi-
bility. When you receive your Limited Warranty file it for safekeeping.
Upon proof of purchase date to any Airstream Dealer Service Center, defects in materi-
als or workmanship will be repaired or replaced without cost to the owner for a period
of thirty six (36) months from the original purchase date, or 36,000 miles (57,937 kilome-
ters), whichever occurs first. Written warranties of some manufacturers of components
of the motorhome will be honored by Airstream for the duration on that manufacturer’s
warranty.
The Airstream Limited Warranty Excludes:
Normal Wear:
Items such as water purifier packs, curtains, upholstery, floor coverings, window, and
vent seals may show wear within the one year Limited Warranty period depending
upon the amount of usage, weather and atmospheric conditions.
Accident
Damage caused by accident is usually visible, and we strongly urge our dealers and
customers to inspect the motorhome upon delivery for any damage caused by ac-
cident while being delivered to the dealer, or while it is on the dealer’s lot. Damage
A
A - 4
WARRANTY AND SERVICE
of this nature becomes the dealer’s or your responsibility upon acceptance of the
motorhome. GLASS BREAKAGE, whether obviously struck or mysterious, is always
accidental and covered by most insurance policies.
Abuse
Lack of customer care and/or improper maintenance, including failure to comply with
the terms of the Owner’s Manual, or failure to heed proper vehicle operation shown by
the dash instruments is not covered by warranty.
Exposure
Deterioration by sunlight is possible to such items as tires, curtains or upholstery.
Steel or metal surfaces are subject to the elements, causing rust and corrosion that is
normal and beyond the control and responsibility of Airstream.
Appearance
Paint and appearance items that show imperfections, damage to interior and exterior
surfaces resulting from abrasion, collision or impact, and broken window glass is not
covered by the Airstream Limited Warranty and should be brought to the attention of
your Airstream dealer at the time of delivery and during pre-delivery inspection.
Overload
Overload Damage due to loading beyond capacity or to cause improper balance is not
covered by the Airstream Limited Warranty. The Airstream motorhome is engineered
to properly handle any normal load. There are limits to the amount of load that can be
safely transported depending upon speed and road conditions. If these limits have
been exceeded the Airstream Limited Warranty will not cover resulting damage. For
additional information on the load capacity of your motorhome, consult your Owner’s
Manual or gross vehicle weight rating plate.
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.
SPRINTER VAN
Airstream, Inc., does not accept any responsibility in connection with any of its mo-
torhomes for the Sprinter Van or its components. The Sprinter Van and its components
are covered by DaimlerChrysler Warranties as explained by DaimlerChrysler literature
provided with each motorhome. Your Sprinter Van and its components are pre-
checked by its manufacturer before delivery to Airstream. All service to the Sprinter
Van and its components must be performed by Daimler/Chrysler designated service
points according to the manufacturer’s warranty and service policies. Daimler/Chrysler
Literature is supplied with each Airstream motorhome. The literature gives important
information concerning its warranty coverage, maintenance, and operation.
WARNING: Your Sprinter Van Operator’s and Warranty Manuals contain
important cautions, warnings, operational, and warranty information on the Sprinter
and its components. All information in the Sprinter manual should be reviewed and fol-
lowed for your safety. The Airstream Interstate Owner’s Manual may provide addition
information and tips on the use of the Van as a motorhome, however, no information in
the Airstream manual should be interpreted as advice or directions to disregard or void
the warnings, cautions, or other information contained in the Sprinter’s manuals.
Other Exclusions
Tires, battery and the generator are serviced by their respective manufacturers and will
be handled by their service centers according to the terms of their written policy. Any
warranty forms from these manufacturers should be completed promptly, preferably
at time of purchase.
A
WARRANTY AND SERVICE
A - 5
SERVICE
Before leaving the factory, each and every vital part of the motorhome is tested for
performance. Each test is signed and certified by an inspector. After the motorhome
arrives on your dealer’s lot all of these vital parts and systems are again tested. When
you take delivery of your new motorhome you will receive a complete checkout.
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 has been provided with
your new motorhome. This list is current as of the date of 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 SERVICE CENTERS OPERATE ON AN APPOINTMENT BASIS FOR THE
UTMOST EFFICIENCY.
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 Airstream 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
Fax: 937-596-6802
CONSUMER ARBITRATION PROGRAM
Airstream, Inc. participates in the consumer Arbitration Program for Recreational
Vehicle (CAP-RV). This third-party dispute resolution program is available, at no charge
to you, to settle unresolved warranty disputes for recreational vehicles. This dispute
resolution program reviews eligible product and service related complaints involving
warranty covered components.
To find out more about this program, or to request an application/brochure, please call
the Arbitration Administration office toll-free 800.279.5343.
For recreational vehicles purchased in the State of California: The CAP-RV program
operates as a certified mechanism under the review of the California Arbitration
Certification Program. You must utilize the arbitration program before claiming rights
conferred by 15 USC section 2310 (Uniform Commercial Code) or Civil Code section
1793.22(b) (Son-Beverly Warranty Act). You are not required to use the program if you
choose to seek redress by pursuing rights and remedies not created by those laws.
A
A - 6
WARRANTY AND SERVICE
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.
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.
To contact NHTSA you may either call the Auto Safety Hotline toll-free at 1-888-327-
4236 (TTY 1-800-424-9153) or write to: NHTSA, 400 Seventh St, S.W., Washington,
D.C. 20590.
You can also obtain other information about motor vehicle safety from the Hotline or
view the NHTSA Website: www.safercar.gov
MAINTENANCE SCHEDULE
Living Area
WARNING: FAILURE TO MAINTAIN YOUR COACH CAN CAUSE
PREMATURE AND UNEXPECTED PARTS BREAKAGE AND/OR ERRATIC
OPERATION THAT MAY BE HAZARDOUS. SERIOUS INJURY COULD RESULT
FROM FAILURE TO HEED THIS WARNING.
EVERY 1,000 MILES OR 60 DAYS
Smoke Alarm Test and replace battery as required.
GFI Circuit Breaker Test and record.
EVERY 5,000 MILES OR 90 DAYS
LPG Regulator Check bottom vent for obstructions
Roof Vent Elevator Screws Lubricate with light household oil
Living Area Windows Lubricate with light household oil
EVERY 10, 000 MILES OR 6 MONTHS
Carbon monoxide alarm Vacuum exterior only.
A
WARRANTY AND SERVICE
A - 7
EVERY YEAR or 12,000 miles
LP Tank Clean, neutralize and coat terminals with
petroleum jelly.
Seams Check and reseal, windows, lights and vents
if necessary. Reseal with Bostik urethane
sealant or equivalent as needed.
APPLIANCES
Appliances have maintenance schedules and advice in their respective Owners/
Operation Manuals. These manuals are included in the owner’s packet given to
you by your dealer. Please become familiar with and follow all information in
these manuals.
AUTOMOTIVE
See the Sprinter Operators Manual and Maintenance Logbook for Automotive
Maintenance schedules and pre-trip inspections.
A
A - 8
WARRANTY AND SERVICE
MAINTENANCE RECORDS
DATE DEALER SERVICE PERFORMED
DATE DEALER SERVICE PERFORMED
B
DRIVING
B - 1
LOADING
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 a wardrobe door about
60” up from the floor.
See specification section in this manual for weights and term definitions.
WEIGHT DISTRIBUTION
The motorhomes have fresh water, a wastewater tank, and storage areas. It gives you
great flexibility in loading. With flexibility comes responsibility. If you want to load down
all the storage compartments, the amount of fluids will have to be reduced. Distribute
your additional cargo as evenly as possible with the heaviest objects located as low
as possible.
Do you really want to carry 300 pounds of water to a RV park 1,000 miles away and
then hook up to a city water supply? Even if you’re going to the “boondocks”, you can
usually fill your water tank shortly before entering the area. Just reducing your load by
10 gallons of water lets you carry an awful lot of fishing and camping gear.
The Unloaded Vehicle Weight (UVW), listed on the chart in your coach, is the weight
of this motorhome as manufactured at the factory with full fuel, engine oil, and cool-
ants.
Cargo Carrying Capacity (CCC) is equal to the GVWR minus each of the following:
UVW, full fresh (potable) water weight (including water heater), full propane weight,
and SCWR.
WEIGHING
The unloaded vehicle weight (UVW), listed on the chart in your coach is the weight of
the motorhome with the options as ordered and installed at the factory. It includes all
weight at the axles with full generator fluids, including fuel, engine oil, and coolants.
To determine the actual weight of your vehicle with personal cargo, water and LP, it
must be weighed on scales. The most common scales are those used by states to
weigh trucks used along the highway. In rural areas, grain elevators are a good source
and another would be a gravel pit. Note: Weighing instructions for this motorhome are
explained later in this section.
If you have trouble locating scales, a call to your State Highway Patrol will usually find
them very cooperative in assisting you.
MOTORHOME WEIGHT INFORMATION
VIN OR SERIAL NUMBER
GVWR (GROSS VEHICULAR WEIGHT RATING) IS THE MAXIMUM PERMISSABLE WEIGHT OF THIS FULLY LOADED MOTORHOME.
UVW (UNLOADED VEHICLE WEIGHT), IS THE WEIGHT OF THE MOTORHOME AS MANUFACTURED AT THE FACTORY WITH
FULL FUEL, ENGINE OIL, AND COOLANTS.
CCC (CARGO CARRYING CAPACITY) IS EQUAL TO GVWR MINUS EACH OF THE FOLLOWING: UVW, FULL FRESH (POTABLE)
WATER WEIGHT, (INCLUDING WATER HEATER) FULL LP GAS WEIGHT AND SCREW.
CARGO CARRYING CAPACITY (CCC) COMPUTATION POUNDS KILOGRAMS
GVWR....................................................................................................................................
MINUS UVW..................................................................................................................
MINUS FRESH WATER WEIGHT OF GALLONS @ 8.3 LB/GAL..................
MINUS LP GAS WEIGHT OF GALLONS @ 4.2 LB/GAL...................
*CCC FOR THIS MOTORHOME........................................................................................
*DEALER INSTALLED EQUIPMENT WILL REDUCE CCC
CONSULT OWNER MANUAL (S) FOR SPECIFIC WEIGHING INSTRUCTIONS AND TOWING GUIDELINES.
CD-133
SCWR (SLEEPING CAPACITY WEIGHT RATING) IS THE MANUFACTURER’S DESIGNATED NUMBER OF SLEEPING POSITIONS
MULTIPLIED BY 154 POUNDS (70 KILOGRAMS)
MINUS SCWR OF PERSONS @154LB/PERSON....................
B
B - 2
DRIVING
SAFETY CHECK LIST
Your Airstream motorhome should be given a thorough safety check before a trip.
Regular use of the following list will provide safe operation of your motorhome and
will help you spot any malfunctioning equipment and correct the problem as soon as
possible. The list is to help you and may not be all-inclusive.
Failure to heed the following items may cause damage to the vehicle or per-
sonal injury.
EXTERIOR CHECK LIST (BEFORE ENTERING VEHICLE)
1. Check condition of tires for proper inflation.
2. Turn off LPG valve on LPG tank.
3. Check that sewer connections, city water hookup, TV cable/satellite, and all
exterior components are unhooked and properly stowed away.
4. Check that all external compartments and filler openings are properly closed,
latched, and/or locked.
5. Check that items stored on exterior of vehicle are securely tied down.
6. Would any items stored on exterior of vehicle present a clearance problem?
7. Lower and secure TV antenna, (stow satellite dish).
8. Follow all automotive manufacturers recommendations on checking and filling
fluid levels.
9. Check exterior lights and general condition of vehicle.
10. Keep tires at recommended inflation pressure.
INTERIOR CHECK LIST (BEFORE DRIVING OFF)
1. It is important that all doors be completely closed during travel.
2. Turn off living area water pump.
3. Check that refrigerator door is fastened.
4. Check that nothing heavy is stored in overhead or high cabinets, which could fall
out and cause injury. Heavy items should be stored in lower cabinets.
5. Stow folding and pedestal tables.
6. Check that counter tops, range top, and shelves are clear of even small items that
could become projectiles in an accident.
7. Do not cook while under way. Hot food or liquid could scald due to a sudden stop
or accident.
8. Be sure all LPG controls on the furnace, range and gas/electric refrigerator are
turned Off.
9. Check that any internal stowage is securely held in place
10. Check that lights and switches are set in positions safe for travel.
11. Adjust the driver’s seat so that you can easily reach and operate all controls.
Make sure seat is locked in position. Do not adjust driver’s seat swivel or fore and
aft mechanism while vehicle is moving. The seat could move unexpectedly caus-
ing loss of control.
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DRIVING
B - 3
12. Check that front passenger’s seat is locked in position - both fore and aft adjust-
ment and swivel mechanism.
13. The freedom of movement of the brake and accelerator pedals must not be
impaired in any way
14. Check rear view mirrors adjustment, inside and outside. Adjust curtains if neces-
sary for maximum visibility.
15. Secure children in a Federally Approved Child Restraint Device.
16. Fasten your lap belts.
SAFETY
SEAT BELTS
In the forward driver’s area of the motorhome, safety seat belts are provided for the use
of the driver and the right front passenger. Safety belts are available for other seats.
It is strongly recommended that all occupants remain seated with their safety belts
firmly attached while the motorhome is in transit. The driver should adjust his seat so
that he is able to reach all controls easily with the belt on, especially able to use all the
travel on the foot brake. The belt should be placed as low as possible around the hips
to prevent sliding out from under them in case of accident. This places the load of the
body on the strong hipbone structure instead of around the soft abdominal area. Two
people should never try to use the same seat belt.
WARNING: Become familiar with and follow all directions, advice, and
warnings pertaining to seats, seat belt operation, and restraint systems, provided
in the Sprinter Operator’s Manual.
WARNING: Children must be secured in a Federally Approved Child
Restraint Device. Failure to use proper restraints while in transit can result in
severe or fatal injuries. Never place an infant seat that faces to the rear on the
front passenger seat. Never place an unbelted infant seat on the front pas-
senger seat.
Child restraint devices are designed to be secured with lap or lap/shoulder belts. All
instructions supplied by the restraint manufacturer must be followed. Statistics have
shown children are safer when properly restrained in a rear seating position than in a
front seating position.
Often the children traveling in motorhomes are grandchildren. There are times when
our love for grandchildren makes us hesitate to properly supervise their actions. Don’t
hesitate when it comes to their safety. Make sure they are properly restrained.
CHILDREN HAVE LOVED ONES TOO.
IF YOU WON’T BUCKLE UP FOR YOURSELF, BUCKLE UP FOR THEM.
WARNING: Drinking or taking drugs and driving can be a very dangerous
combination. Even a small amount of alcohol or drugs can affect your reflexes,
perception, and judgment. The possibility of a serious or even fatal accident is
sharply increased when you drink or take drugs and drive. Never drink or take
drugs and drive or allow anyone to drive after drinking or taking drugs.
B
B - 4
DRIVING
TRAILER TOWING AND DRIVING TIPS
(Partial excerpts from Sprinter Operators Manual)
WARNING: Failure to use proper equipment and driving technique can
result in a loss of vehicle control when towing a trailer. Improper towing or failure
to follow the instructions contained in this section can result in serious injury.
Follow the guidelines below carefully to assure safe trailer operation. Ask your
authorized sprinter or Airstream dealer if you require an explanation of informa-
tion contained in the sky.
Trailer Hitches
Units have hitches installed from the Sprinter manufacturer. The Sprinter 7- way con-
nector is used for lights and charge line on a trailer. For further information, please see
your authorized Sprinter or Airstream Dealer.
The bumpers on your vehicle are not designed for use with clamp type hitches. Do not
attach rental hitches or other bumper type hitches to them.
To reduce the possibility of damage, remove the hitch ball adapter from the receiver
when not in use.
Vehicle and Trailer Weights and Ratings
Gross Vehicle Weight Rating (GVWR) is the maximum permissible weight of the mo-
torhome.
Gross Vehicle Weight (GVW): comprises weight of vehicle including fuel, tools, spare
tire, installed accessories, passengers, cargo, and trailer tongue. It must never exceed
the GVWR.
Gross Axle Weight Rating (GAWR) is a maximum permissible axle weight.
Gross Trailer Weight (GTW) is a maximum permissible trailer weight to be towed.
Trailer Tongue Weight Rating (TWR) is the maximum permissible weight of the
trailer tongue.
These and other weights are located in the specification section of this manual.
B
DRIVING
B - 5
Since this vehicle is designed and intended primarily as a load-carrying vehicle, towing
a trailer will affect handling, durability and economy. Maximum safety and satisfaction
depends upon proper use of correct equipment and avoiding overloads and other
abusive operation.
WARNING: The total weight of the motorhome and trailer must not ex-
ceed the GCWR listed in the specification section of this manual. The maximum
towing capacity varies according to the size of the motorhome and its GCWR.
Vehicles should be properly equipped for towing trailers. Information on trailer
hauling capabilities and special equipment required may be obtained from your
Airstream dealer.
Loading a Trailer
When loading a trailer, you should observe that neither the permissible GTW, nor the
GVWR are exceeded.
Maximum permissible values are listed on the safety compliance certification labels
for the vehicle and for the trailer to be towed. For their location, see the Sprinter
Operators Manual. The lowest value listed must be selected when determining how
the vehicle and trailer are loaded.
To assist in attaining good handling of the vehicle/trailer combination it is important
that the tongue weight be maintained at approximately 10%-15% of the loaded trailer
weight, but not to exceed the hitch rating. Tongue loads can be adjusted by proper
distribution of the load in the trailer, and can be checked by weighing separately the
loaded trailer and then the tongue.
The tongue weight (TW) at the hitch ball must be added to the GVW to prevent exceed-
ing your Sprinter towed vehicles or rear GAWR.
When towing trailers, motorhome tires should be inflated to the highest pressures
shown on the information plate on the side of the driver’s seal mounting plate. The
Cargo Carrying Capacity (CCC) of this vehicle is reduced by the amount that equals
the trailer tongue load on the trailer hitch.
Checking Weights of Vehicle and Trailer
To assure that the tow vehicle and trailer comply with the maximum permissible weight
limits, and to know the actual weights, have the loaded vehicle-trailer combination
(tow vehicle including driver, passengers and cargo, trailer fully loaded) weight on
commercial scale.
Check the vehicles front and rear Gross Axle Weight (GAW), the GTW and TW. The val-
ues as measured must not be exceeded, according to the weight listed under “Vehicle
and trailer weight and ratings” in this section.
B
B - 6
DRIVING
Attaching a Trailer
Please observe maximum permitted trailer dimensions (weight and length).
Most states and all Canadian provinces require safety chains between your tow vehicle
and trailer. The chains should be crisscrossed under the trailer tongue. It must be
attached to the hitch receiver, and not to the vehicles bumper or axle. Be sure to leave
enough slack in the chains to permit turning corners.
Most states and all Canadian provinces required a separate brake system for tow-
ing trailers.
WARNING: The towing vehicle’s braking system is rated for opera-
tion at GVWR (GROSS VEHICLE WEIGHT RATING), NOT at the GCWR (GROSS
COMBINED WEIGHT RATING). A separate functioning brake system is required
for any towed vehicles or trailers weighing more than 1000 lbs. (450 kg) when
fully loaded. NEVER exceed the GVWR (GROSS VEHICLE WEIGHT RATING), or
the GAWR (GROSS AXLE WEIGHT RATING) specified on a motorhome certifica-
tion label. Also NEVER, exceed the weight ratings of trailer hitch installed on
a motorhome. Failure to heed any part of this warning could result in loss of
control of the motorhome and towed vehicle or trailer and may cause an accident
and serious injury. For specified towed vehicle braking requirements, consult the
Sprinter Operator’s manual that comes with this vehicle.
WARNING: Do not connect a trailer brake system (if trailer is so
equipped) directly to the vehicles hydraulic brake system if your vehicle is
equipped with antilock brakes. If you do, neither the vehicles brakes nor the
trailers brakes will function properly. Property damage, injury or death to you
or others may be the result. The provided vehicle electrical wiring harness for
a trailer towing has a brake signal wire for hookup to a brake controller. Most
states and all Canadian provinces require a brake away switch on trailers with
a separate brake system. The switch activates the trailer brakes in the possible
event that the trailer might separate from the tow vehicle. Please consider us-
ing a trailer sway control system. For further information, see your authorized
Sprinter or Airstream dealer.
Towing a Trailer
There are many different laws, including speed limit restrictions, having to do with
trailer towing. Make sure that your vehicle -- trailer combination will be legal; not
only for where you reside, but also for where you’ll be driving. A good source for this
information can be the State Attorney General, State Police, or local authorities.
Before you start driving with a trailer, check the trailer’s hitch, brake away switch,
safety chains, electrical connections, lighting and tires. Also, adjust the mirrors to
permit unobstructed view beyond rear of trailer.
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DRIVING
B - 7
If the trailer has electric brakes, start your vehicle and trailer moving slowly, and then ap-
ply only the trailer brake controller by hand to be sure the brakes are working properly.
When towing a trailer, check occasionally to be sure that the load is secure, and that
lighting and trailer brakes (if so equipped) are functioning properly.
Always secure items in the trailer to prevent load shifts while driving.
Take into consideration that when towing a trailer, the handling characteristics are
different and less stable from those when operating the vehicle without a trailer. It is
important to avoid sudden maneuvers.
The vehicle and trailer combination is heavier, and therefore is limited in acceleration
inclining ability, and requires longer stopping distances. It is more prone to reacting to
side wind gusts, and requires more sensitive steering input.
In order to gain skill and an understanding of the vehicles behavior, you should practice
turning, stopping and backing up in an area which is free from traffic.
If possible, do not brake abruptly, but rather engage the brake slightly at first to permit
trailer to activate its brake. Then increase the braking force.
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.
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 mir-
rors are necessary for maximum visibility and in most states the law requires them.
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.
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.
B
B - 8
DRIVING
Tracking
On a two-lane road cars will be lining up behind you
because you travel at a lower speed. It is both courte-
ous and sensible to signal, pull onto the shoulder, and
let them pass.
The BRAKE CONTROLLER (if so equipped) 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. Don’t wait for an emergency then grope for
the controller.
When trailering you might encounter a temporary cool-
ing 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 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 tempera-
ture should come down within one minute. Proceed on
the highway a little slower. Ten minutes later resume
normal driving.
WARNING: Never open a radiator cap
when the tow vehicle is hot. Check the coolant level
when the vehicle is cool.
When going downhill in dry weather, down shift so that
engine compression will slow the whole rig clown. 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.
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.
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
are stuck it is best to tow out the entire rig together
without unhitching.
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-ve-
hicle. Do not apply the vehicle brakes, as this can tend
to exaggerate the situation. You may find, however, that
B
DRIVING
B - 9
briefly applying the trailer brakes with your manual control will help eliminate sway.
WARNING: When stopping on a hill or slope, leaving your tow vehicle
in gear is not enough for standstill safety. CHOCK THE TRAILER WHEELS to he
double sure. Do not use trailer brakes as parking brakes.
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.
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.
WARNING: take into consideration that when towing a trailer, the han-
dling characteristics are different and less stable from those with operating the
vehicle without a trailer. It is important to avoid sudden maneuvers. Sudden
maneuvers may lead to loss of control over the vehicle -- trailer combination.
CAUTION: If the transmission hunts between gears on inclines, manually shift to
a lower gear (select “4”, “3”, “to “2” or “1”). A lower gear and reduction of speed
reduces the chances of engine overloading and/or overheating. When going down a
long hill, shift into a lower gear and use the engines braking effect. Avoid riding the
brakes, thus overheating the vehicle and trailer brakes. If the engine coolant rises to
an extremely high temperature (coolant temperature needle approaching the red zone)
when the air conditioner is on, turn off the air conditioner. Engine coolant heat can be
additionally vented by opening the windows, switching the climate control fan speed
to high and setting the temperature control to the maximum hot position. Extreme care
must be exercised censure vehicle with a trailer will require additional passing distance
ahead that when driving without a trailer. Because your vehicle and trailer is longer
then your vehicle alone, you will also need to go much further ahead of the passed
vehicle before you can return to your lane.
Parking
WARNING: to reduce the risk of personal injury, or damage to the ve-
hicle power train, as a result of vehicle/trailer movement, always:
• Keep right foot on the brake pedal.
• Shift tear selector lever to position "N".
• Have a second person place wheel chocks on downhill side of left and
right trailer wheels.
• Slowly release brake pedal cannot vehicle and trailer roll into chocks
until stopped.
• Firmly depress parking brake pedal.
• Move gear selector lever to position "P".
• On inclines, turn from wheels towards the road curb.
B
B - 10
DRIVING
TOWING YOUR MOTORHOME
The most common equipment is called “reach under hooks”. These allow the tow
operator to lift on the front suspension of your motorhome without damaging the
bumper or other body parts. Another choice is a wheeled dolly. In these, the front
tires sit in a cradle supported by its own wheels. The tow operator should be told the
weight of your vehicle on the front suspension so they can be properly prepared when
they reach you.
CAUTION: Considerable damage will occur if the motorhome is improperly
lifted for towing purposes. Only qualified professional wrecker service compa-
nies with proper equipment should be used. Observe all cautions and warnings
in the Sprinter Operator’s manual before towing your motorhome.
WARNING: Do not tow the vehicle if the key cannot be turned in the ignition
lock. If the key cannot be turned, the ignition lock remains locked and the vehicle can-
not be steered. With the engine not running there is no power assistance for the braking
and steering systems. In this case, it is important to keep in mind that a considerably
higher degree of effort is necessary to brake and steer the vehicle. The vehicle must
not be towed with the front axle raised and key in position two in the ignition lock as
the drive wheels could then lock due to the acceleration skid control (ASR). See the
Sprinter Operators Manual for information on the ASR.
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DRIVING
B - 11
Procedure for Weighing A RV
Vehicle should be weigh loaded as you
normally travel.
1. Fill in first row from Specification
Section of this manual.
2. Weigh vehicle as shown in row 2
(Scale Weight) and fill in blanks.
3. Weigh one side of vehicle as shown In
Individual Wheel Position Weight.
4. Calculate other side as shown in Last
Information for line 1 is located in the
specification section in this manual.
Front Axle GAWR GVWR Rear Axle GAWR GCWR - GVW
SCALE WEIGHT Optional Tow Weight
___________
STEP 1
Front Axle GAW
___________
STEP 2
GVW
___________
STEP 3
Rear Axle GAW
___________
STEP 3a
Tow Weight minus
Weight of Trailer
or Vehicle Towed
INDIVIDUAL WHEEL POSITION WEIGHT
___________
STEP 4
Left Front Wheel
Position
___________
STEP 5
Left Side
(Total LF + LR)
___________
STEP 6
Left Rear Wheel
Position
Calculated Calculated Calculated
___________
Right Front Wheel
Position
Step 1 minus Step 4
___________
Right Front
(Total RF + RR)
Step 2 minus Step
5
___________
Right Rear
Wheel Position
Step 3 minus Step 6
GAWR = Gross Axle Weight Rating
GVWR = Gross Vehicle Weight Rating
GCWR = Gross Combination Weight Rating
C
C - 1
SPRINTER VAN
Component Identification
The Airstream Interstate Motorhome is integrated into a Sprinter Van, designed and
manufactured by Daimler/Chrysler. Operation of the Sprinter, its engine, power train,
and other related components are discussed in the Sprinter Operator’s Manual and
other literature provide by Daimler/Chrysler. As a point of reference, those systems
discussed in this literature are warranted by Daimler/Chrysler or their suppliers.
If repairs are needed, it may be difficult to determine which parts are the Sprinter
manufacturer’s, and which are Airstream’s responsibility. The following partial lists show
the major components of the van and the company responsible for their servicing.
Sprinter Van Serviced by Daimler/Chrysler.
See Sprinter Warranty Information Manual for complete instructions.
Engine Exterior Automotive lights
Transmission Suspension
Brakes Drive Axle and Hubs
Steering Assembly Rear Shocks
Front Spindle, Bearings Automotive Fuse Panel
Wheels Parking Brake
Alternator Electric Fuel Pump
Cruise Control Engine Battery
Instrument Panel Cluster Engine Cooling System
Tires (see tire manufacturer service center) Doors, cab, side and rear cargo
Cab door windows and windshield Automotive electrical system
Dash AC/Heater/Defroster
Driver’s and Passenger’s Seats and Restraint systems, does not include optional
swivel pedestal for passenger seat or seat decorative skirting that is installed by
Airstream Inc.
In the United States: In Canada:
Daimler/Chrysler Motors Company LLC Daimler/Chrysler Canada, Inc.
Customer Center Customer Center
PO Box 21-8004 PO Box 1621
Auburn Hills, MI. 48321-8004 Windsor, Ontario N9A-4H6
Ph.: 800-992-1997 Ph.: 800 465-2001
C
SPRINTER VAN
C - 2
Component Identification (continued)
Airstream Components serviced by Airstream Authorized Service Centers
Cab Area:
Driving light system including lights, switch and harness
Driver’s and passenger’s seat skirting
Floor Mats
Finish on the center console switch base. Airstream removes, send out for finish and
reinstalls.
Living Quarters:
Interior furniture, wall panels to the rear of the cab seats.
Privacy curtain
Shades
Floor covering
Appliances in the lounge/lavy area
Fresh water and waste water system components.
Non-automotive electrical components including:
Monitor panel and its system
Converter
Automatic switch over box
110-volt system
12 Volt living area system
Roof AC
Power vent
Living area entertainment center
Exterior patio light
Exterior
Roof rack
Entertainment center’s Radio and TV antenna
Exterior windows excluding windshield, drivers and passenger door
Paint (Carrera Designs)
Access doors and other living area electrical and plumbing components
If you need further clarification or information, contact the Airstream Customer Relations
Department at 937-596-6111 before contacting a service center for an appointment.
If you wish to write, the address is:
Airstream Inc.
Attn: Customer Service
419 W. Pike Street
P.O. Box 629
Jackson Center, Ohio 45334
C
C - 3
SPRINTER VAN
IMPORTANT INFORMATION
Your Sprinter Van Operator’s and Warranty Manuals contain important cautions,
warnings, operational, and warranty information on the Sprinter and its compo-
nents. All information in the Sprinter manual should be reviewed and followed
for your safety. The Airstream Interstate Owner’s Manual may provide addition
information and tips on the use of the Van as a motorhome, however, no informa-
tion in the Airstream manual should be interpreted as advice or directions to
disregard or void the warnings, cautions, or other information contained in the
Sprinter’s manuals.
TIRES
Don’t let anyone tell you that under inflation or over inflation is all right. It’s not. If
you’re tires don’t have enough air (under inflation) you can get tire flexing, heat build-
up, tire overloading, bad handling, bad fuel economy, and bad wear. Too high an air
pressure (over inflation) can result in abnormal wear, bad handling, harsh ride, and
increase the chance of damage from road hazards.
Tire inflation pressures should be checked at least monthly and when significantly
changing the load you plan to carry in your motorhome. Always check tire inflation
pressures when the tires are “cold”.
Standard inflation pressures for tires are listed on a decal mounted on the driver’s seat
pedestal. Front and rear pressures are shown for each model and GVWR, and are
based on the GVWR and front and rear axle ratings (GAWRs) printed on your vehicle
VIN plate and Certification label. Tires must be inflated to these pressures when the
vehicle is fully loaded or an axle GAWR is reached.
Proper FRONT END ALIGNMENT improves tire tread mileage. Your front-end suspen-
sion parts should be inspected periodically and aligned when needed. Improper align-
ment may or may not cause the vehicle to vibrate. However, improper toe alignment
will cause front tires to roll at an angle, which will result in faster tire wear. Incorrect
caster or camber alignment will cause your front tires to wear unevenly and can cause
the vehicle to “pull” to the left or right.
Vehicle Placard and Tire Inflation Pressure Label
The TIRE AND LOADING INFORMATION placard supplies information on the size
and the cold tire inflation pressure for the original equipment tires supplied with your
vehicle. It also defines the GVWR as 8,550 pounds. It is located on the side of the
driver’s seat pedestal in your vehicle.
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SPRINTER VAN
C - 4
PROPER TIRE INFLATION
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,
door post, glove door, or fuel door. On the Interstate Motorhome, it is located on the
Driver’s seat pedestal.
Correct tire inflation is a key component in tire care. The recommended inflation pres-
sures 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 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.
Under Inflation
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 under inflation brings about an increased risk of tread separation,
handling difficulties, and possibly tire failure, which is caused by overheating.
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 the
difference in ride quality is not significant. When minimum inflation pressure require-
ments 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.
• 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
• 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, a special gauge will be
required designed for larger tires.
• Don't bleed air from warm tires to reduce pressure buildup
• Don't inflate tires to cold PSI rating beyond rim specifications
HOW OVERLOADING AFFECTS YOUR TIRES
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, brake failure, shock absorber dam-
age, 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.
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 require-
ments are not met, tire durability and optimum operation can be affected.
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SPRINTER VAN
TIRES and WHEELS (partially excerpted from the Sprinter Van Operator’s Manual)
Check tires regularly for even tread wear; tread depth (note legal requirements) and
signs of external damage.
Use only wheels and tires of the same size, make and pattern.
Do not install tires that are not approved for the size and type of wheel installed on
the vehicle itself. Only use those wheel sizes that were delivered to you buy your
authorized Sprinter dealer.
Use only wheels and tires that have been tested and approved by the vehicle manu-
facturer.
Break in the tires at moderate speeds for distance of about 65 miles.
WARNING: always replace wheel bolts that are damage or rusted.
Never apply oil or grease to wheel bolts. Damaged wheel hub threads should be
repaired immediately. Incorrect mounting bolts or improperly tighten mounting
bolts can cause the wheel to come off. This could cause an accident. Be sure
to use the correct mounting bolts. Checked tightness of wheel bolts or nuts
regularly and retighten if necessary.
After changing a wheel, the wheel bolts or nuts must be tightened once the ve-
hicle has been driven for about 30 miles.
If new or repainted wheels are fitted, the wheel bolts or nuts must be retighten
again after about 600 to 3000 miles.
Fitting other wheel sizes to the vehicle will change the Sprinter’s handling char-
acteristics and may lead to an accident resulting in severe personal injuries,
death and property damage.
Do not use remolded tires.
Tighten the wheel bolts or nuts in a cross pattern sequence.
Tighten the wheel bolts or nuts to the specified torque with a torque wrench.
Tightening Torque for 8,550 lbs. (vehicle type 2500 C/HC/SHC):
Steel Wheel 177 Lbf/ Ft. + or - 7 Lbf. /Ft.
Light Alloy Wheel 138 Lbf/ Ft. + or - 14 Lbf. /Ft (optional)
Tire Grip
Tire grip is greatly reduced on a wet or icy road. Speed and driving style must therefore
be adapted to suit road conditions. In winter, install M + S radial tires. Below a tread
depth of 1/8 in., tire grip begins to decrease rapidly on wet roads.
Hydroplaning
Depending on the depth of the water layer on the road, hydroplaning may occur, even
at low speeds and with new tires. Reduce vehicle speed, avoid grooves in the road,
and apply brakes cautiously in the rain.
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SPRINTER VAN
C - 6
Changing the Tire (partially excerpted from the Sprinter Van Operator’s Manual)
If you get a flat tire while driving, gradually decrease your speed. Hold the steering
wheel firmly and slowly move to a safe place on the side of the road. The pressure of
the spare wheel always has to be checked regularly (at least after every tenth time at
the filling station).
The vehicle tool kit and the jack are located under the hatch in the front passenger
foot well.
WARNING: The jack is designed exclusively for jacking up the vehicle
at the jack take-up brackets built into either side of the vehicle. To help avoid
personal injury, use the jack only to lift the vehicle during a wheel change. Never
get beneath the vehicle while it is supported by the jack.
• Keep hands and feet away from the area under the lifted the vehicle.
• Always firmly set parking brake and block wheels before raising
vehicle with jack.
• Do not disengage parking brake while vehicle is raised.
• Always use the jack on a level surface.
• Do not jack the vehicle up more than 1.2 inches between the tire and
the surface. Otherwise, the vehicle may tip over and may cause seri-
ous injury or death to you or others.
• Be sure that the jack arm and is fully seated in the jack take-up
bracket.
• Always lower the vehicle onto sufficient capacity jack stands before
working under the vehicle.
• Precautions when changing a wheel:
Tire pressure: See Sprinter Van Operator’s Manual.
Wheel bolt torque
Tighten the wheel bolts in a crosswise pattern to the specified torque with
torque wrench.
Tightening Torque for 8,550 lbs. (vehicle type 2500 C/HC/SHC):
Steel Wheel 177 Lbf/ Ft. + or - 7 Lbf. /Ft.
Light Alloy Wheel 138 Lbf/ Ft. + or - 14 Lbf. /Ft (optional)
• Do not damage, grease or oil wheel bolts or their threads.
Procedure:
• Park the vehicle on a firm, level, non-slippery surface.
• Switch on the hazard warning flasher switch, apply the parking brake, and
place the transmission selector in “P”.
• Everyone must leave the vehicle before you jack it up.
• Everyone must leave the danger zone, before jacking the vehicle.
• The vehicle must be safeguarded in accordance with legal regulations
(such as using a warning triangle).
• Prevent vehicle for rolling away by blocking wheels with wheel chocks (not
supplied with vehicle) or sizable woodblocks or stone. On a level road
place one chalk in front of and one behind the wheel that is diagonally op-
posite to the wheel being changed. When changing a wheel on mild uphill
or downhill grade, place chocks on the downhill side blocking both wheels
of the other axle.
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SPRINTER VAN
Changing the Tire (continued)
WARNING: do not change wheels on either a steep uphill or downhill
grade. The vehicle may begin to move and fall from the jack, which could cause
personal injury and property damage.
SPARE WHEEL LOCATION
The spare tire on the Mid Bath models is located as explained in the Dodge Sprinter
Manual.
The spare tire on the Mid Bath Dinette option models is located on the rear door. It is
mounted on a swing out tire carrier. The tire carrier has an elbow pin. To open the rear
cargo door, remove the pin from its horizontal position, open the carrier 90 degrees,
and reinsert pin in its vertical position. CAUTION: Do not disable the stop on the
rear cargo door hinge when tire carrier is mounted on the rear door. Failure to head
this caution could allow the door to swing open far enough that the tire carrier will
impact and cause damage to the van exterior shell. NOTE: The aluminum rim should
be temporarily stored inside the coach until the tire is repaired, It will not fit on the tire
carrier.
On the Rear Bath model the spare tire has been moved from its original location be-
neath the end of the frame to just inside the rear doors of the motorhome. It is secured
by straps.
A lug wrench and jack is located in the vehicle tool kit. The vehicle tool kit and jack is
located in the front passenger foot well.
JACK
WARNING: The jack is intended only for raising the vehicle briefly, for
instance when changing a wheel. The jack must be placed on a firm, flat surface
only. Do not change wheels on either uphill or downhill grades. Do not crawl
under the jack that vehicle. Do not start the engine while the vehicle is jack up.
Do not jack the vehicle up more than 1.2 inches between the tire and the surface.
Otherwise, the vehicle may tip over and may cause serious injury or death to you
or others. Jack stands must always be used while working beneath the vehicle.
Failure to follow these precautions could result in property damage, personal
injury or death.
USING THE JACK
The jack is located together with vehicle tool kit under the hatch in the front passenger
foot well.
• Loosen the wheel bolts before raising the vehicle.
• Close the release valve on the jack.
• Assemble the pump lever provided and insert it into the socket on the jack.
• Secure lever by turning it clockwise in the socket.
• Position the jack under the appropriate jack point and raise the vehicle by
pumping the lever.
Note: see the Sprinter operator's manual for jack point locations.
Removing a Wheel
• Loosen the wheel bolts.
• Jack up the vehicle until the wheel is clear of the ground.
• Unscrew the wheel bolts and remove the wheel (keep the wheel bolts
clean).
NOTE: If the vehicle moves forwards or backwards while it is being jacked up, lower
it again and repositioned the jack. When the vehicle is jacked up, the jack must stand
vertically (plumb-line).
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SPRINTER VAN
C - 8
INSTALLING A WHEEL
WARNING: different wheel bolts are required for pressed steel and light
alloy wheels. Using incorrect wheel lug bolts for the wheels may result in dam-
age to the vehicle or loosening of the wheels. This could cause an accident and
personal injury.
NOTE: the optional light alloy wheels are supplied with five short wheel lug bolts en-
closed for the steel spare wheel in the vehicle tool kit.
• Before fitting the spare wheel, clean rust and dirt off the contact services of
the wheel and the wheel hub, and from the wheel bolts.
• Note the specified wheel and tire size, tire load capacity and speed code.
• Do not change the tire's direction of rotation.
• Do not damage, grease or oil wheel bolts or their threads.
Centering wheels with wheel bolts
• If dual assemblies are used, before placement, the inner wheel should be
inspected to ensure that all ball bearing rings are in proper position.
• Install the wheel and snug the wheel bolts.
• Slightly tighten wheel bolts.
• Slowly opened jack release valve to lower vehicle until tire is resting on
ground.
• Tighten the wheel bolts in a crosswise pattern to the specified to work with
a torque wrench.
Tightening Torque for 8,550 lbs. (vehicle type 2500 C/HC/SHC):
Steel Wheel 177 Lbf/ Ft. + or - 7 Lbf. /Ft.
Light Alloy Wheel 138 Lbf/ Ft. + or - 14 Lbf. /Ft (optional)
• Remove jack and stow it in the vehicle tool kit.
• Check the tire pressure, for tire pressures see Sprinter operator's manual.
• Retighten the wheel bolts to the specified torque with a torque wrench after
a distance of approximately 30 miles.
WARNING: Only certain tires meeting the tire size/load/speed index
ratings contained in the Tire Pressure Tables, to be found from the Index Section
of the Sprinter’s Operators or Owners Manual, are certified to conform to FMVSS
120 for the Sprinter Vehicle at this time. Please check your sidewalls of your
originally equipped tires for specific makes/sizes, and speed load ratings when
you need to replace your tires.
To prevent accident, injury or possible death, use only the correct tires for your
tire replacement.
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C - 9
SPRINTER VAN
TIRE ROTATION
Front and rear tires perform different jobs and can wear differently depending on the
types of roads driven, your driving habits, etc. To obtain the longest tire life you should
INSPECT AND ROTATE your tires regularly.
Many automotive dealers and tire dealers will perform a free tire inspection to look for
uneven or abnormal tire wear.
Tires should be rotated every 6,000 to 8,000 miles. For the longest tire life, any time
irregular wear is seen have the tires checked, alignment checked, and tires rotated by
your truck or tire dealer. Have the cause of uneven wear corrected.
FOR SAME BRAND, LOAD RANGE AND TREAD PATTERN ON ALL TIRES
FRONT AND REAR FRONT AND REAR, Alternative
Wheel Bolt Tightening
Tighten the wheel bolts in a crosswise pattern to the specified torque with torque
wrench.
Tightening Torque for 8,550 lbs. (vehicle type 2500 C/HC/SHC):
Steel Wheel 177 Lbf/ Ft. + or - 7 Lbf. /Ft.
Light Alloy Wheel 138 Lbf/ Ft. + or - 14 Lbf. /Ft (optional)
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SPRINTER VAN
C - 10
TIRE SUPPORT
Since motorhomes may sit for long periods it is important to properly support the tires
if blocks are used for leveling.
Extreme caution must be taken to ensure that the tires are fully supported when us-
ing blocks to level motorhomes and/or RV’s. The load on the tire should be evenly
distributed on the block and in the case of duals, evenly distributed on blocks for both
tires. If not property done, the steel cables in the sidewall of the tires may be damaged
and could lead to premature fatigue of the sidewall.
The CORRECT methods are shown in Figure 1. Please note that the blocks are
wider than the tread and longer than the tire’s footprint. This provides maximum
support to the tires and assures that the load is evenly distributed throughout the
tire’s footprint area.
FIGURE 1
CORRECT
Singles Duals
Dual Tire Foot Print
Tire Foot Print
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C - 11
SPRINTER VAN
INCORRECT
One tire or a portion of one tire is supporting the full load. Portion of two tires are supporting the full load.
CAUTION: Tires incorrectly supported, as shown above, may be damaged which
could lead to casing failure resulting in serious injury or property damage. If, on previ-
ous occasions, the tires have been incorrectly supported, a hidden damage may be
present. Please contact your local Michelin dealer and request an inspection and a
determination of possible damage.
Singles
Duals
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CAMPING
D - 1
SAFETY
Emergency Exit
There are three avenues of escape from the motorhome in the event of an emergency,
the driver’s and passenger doors, and the side cargo door. As always, safety should be
one of your top priorities. Make sure you, and everyone traveling with you, can operate
these doors and exit rapidly without light. A little planning and a quick practice session
at each camping site is well worth the time it may take.
WARNING: At each campsite make sure you have not parked in such
a manner as to block the operation of the doors or the escape avenues 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 doors. Do not block access to the doors from the inside or outside of the
vehicle.
WARNING: Read the directions carefully on the fire extinguisher. If
there is ally 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.
WARNING: 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!
We have all heard these warnings many times,
but they are still among the leading causes of fires.
Other safety information on the LPG system of your motorhome is located in the
Plumbing Section of this manual.
SMOKE ALARM
OPERATION, TESTING
OPERATION: The smoke detector is operating once a fresh battery is installed and
testing is complete. When products of combustion are sensed, the unit sounds a loud
85 db pulsating alarm until the air is cleared.
HUSH CONTROL: The “HUSH” feature has the capability of temporarily desensitizing
the alarm circuit for approximately 7 minutes. This feature is to be used only when a
known alarm condition, such as smoke from cooking, activates the alarm. The smoke
detector is desensitized by pushing the “HUSH” button on the smoke detector cover. If
the smoke is not too dense, the alarm will silence immediately and “Chirp” every 30-40
seconds for approximately 7 minutes. This indicates that the alarm is in a temporarily
desensitized condition. The smoke alarm will automatically reset after approximately 7
minutes and sound the alarm if particles of combustion are still present. The “HUSH”
feature can be used repeatedly until the air has been cleared of the condition causing
the alarm.
NOTE: DENSE SMOKE WILL OVERRIDE THE HUSH CONTROL FEATURE AND
SOUND A CONTINUOUS ALARM.
WARNING: Alarm battery is shipped deactivated. Check your alarm for
proper battery installation.
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D - 2
CAMPING
CAUTION: BEFORE USING THE ALARM HUSH FEATURE, IDENTIFY THE
SOURCE OF THE SMOKE AND BE CERTAIN A SAFE CONDITION EXISTS.
FLASHING L.E.D. LIGHT: This smoke detector is equipped with a flashing red indica-
tor light. The light is located under the test button and will flash every 30-40 seconds
to indicate that the smoke detector is receiving power.
TESTING: Test by pushing the test button on the cover and holding it down for a
minimum of 2 seconds. This will sound the alarm if all the electronic circuitry, horn and
battery are working. If no alarm sounds the unit has defective batteries or other failure.
You can also test the alarm by blowing smoke into it.
TEST THE ALARM WEEKLY TO ENSURE PROPER OPERATION. Erratic or low
sound coming from your alarm may indicate a defective detector, and it should be
returned for service.
FALSE ALARMS
Smoke detectors are designed to minimize false alarms. Cigarette smoke will not
normally set off the alarm, unless the smoke is blown directly into the detector.
Combustion particles from cooking may set off the alarm if the detector is located
close to the cooking area. Large quantities of combustible particles are generated from
spills or when broiling. Using the fan on a range hood which vents to the outside (non-
recirculating type) will also help remove these combustible products from the kitchen.
MODEL 0916 HAS A “HUSH” CONTROL that is extremely useful in a kitchen area
or other areas prone to nuisance alarms. For more information refer to OPERATION
AND TESTING.
If the detector does alarm, check for fires first. If a fire is discovered, get out and call
the fire department. If no fire is present, check to see if other reasons may have caused
the alarm.
MAINTENANCE
BATTERY REPLACEMENT
To replace-the battery remove the detector from the mounting plate by rotating the
detector in the direction of the “OFF” arrow on the cover.
The Model 0916 Smoke Detector uses one (1) 9-volt battery. The SMOKE DETECTOR
is powered by a 9V carbon zinc battery (alkaline battery may also be used). A fresh
battery should last for one year under normal operating condition. This detector has a
low battery monitor circuit that will cause the detector to “chirp” approximately every
30-40 seconds for a minimum of seven (7) days when the battery gets low. Replace the
battery when this condition occurs. USE ONLY THE FOLLOWING 9 VOLT BATTERIES
FOR SMOKE DETECTOR REPLACEMENT
Carbon-zinc type: EVEREADY 216 OR 1222, GOLD PEAK 1604P OR 1604S
Alkaline type: EVEREADY 522; DURACELL MN 1604, Gold Peak 1604A
Lithium type: ULTRALIFE U9VL. NOTE:
REGULAR TESTING IS RECOMMENDED.
WARNING: USE ONLY THE BATTERIES SPECIFIED. USE OF DIFFERENT
BATTERIES MAY HAVE A DETRIMENTAL EFFECT ON THE SMOKE DETECTOR.
NOTE: IF AFTER BATTERY REPLACEMENT, THE UNIT CONTINUES TO CHIRP,
WAIT FOR APPROXIMATELY 7 MINUTES. THE “HUSH” FEATURE MAY HAVE BEEN
ACTIVATED ACCIDENTALLY WHILE CHANGING THE BATTERIES AND WILL RESET
AUTOMATICALLY
D
CAMPING
D - 3
CLEANING YOUR DETECTOR:
To clean your detector remove it from the mounting bracket as outlined in the begin-
ning of this section.
You can clean the interior of your detector (sensing chamber) by using your vacuum
cleaner hose and vacuuming through the openings around the perimeter of the
detector.
The outside of the detector can be wiped with a damp cloth.
AFTER CLEANING, REINSTALL YOUR DETECTOR. TEST YOUR DETECTOR BY
USING THE TEST BUTTON.
LIMITATIONS OF SMOKE ALARMS:
WARNING: Smoke detectors are devices that can provide early warn-
ing of possible fires at a reasonable cost; however, detectors have sensing limita-
tions. Ionization type detectors offer a broad range of fire sensing capability but
are better at detecting fast flaming fires than slow smoldering fires. Photoelectric
detectors sense smoldering fires better than flaming fires. Home fires develop in
different ways and are often unpredictable. Neither type of detector (photoelec-
tric or ionization) is always best, and a given detector may not always provide
warning of a fire. In addition, smoke detectors do have limitations. For a battery
powered detector the battery must be of the specified type, in good condition,
and installed properly. AC powered detectors will not operate if AC power has
been cut off such as by an electrical fire or an open fuse. Smoke detectors must
be tested regularly to make sure the batteries and the detector circuits are in
good operating condition.
Smoke detectors cannot provide an alarm if smoke does not reach the detector.
Therefore, smoke detectors may not sense fires starting in chimneys, walls, on
roofs, on the other side of a closed door or on a different floor. If the detector is
located outside the bedroom or on a different floor, it may not wake up a sound
sleeper. The use of alcohol or drugs may also impair ones ability to hear the
smoke alarm. For maximum protection a smoke detector should be installed in
each sleeping area on every level of a home.
Although smoke detectors can help save lives by providing an early warning of
a fire, they are not a substitute for an insurance policy. Homeowners and renters
should have adequate insurance to protect their lives and property.
GOOD SAFETY HABITS
DEVELOP AND PRACTICE A PLAN OF ESCAPE:
• Make a floor plan indicating all doors used as escape routes from the
motorhome.
• Have a family meeting and discuss your escape plan, showing everyone
what to do in case of fire.
• Determine a place outside your home where you all can meet if a fire oc-
curs.
• Familiarize everyone with the sound of the Smoke Alarm and train him or
her to leave your motorhome when they hear it.
• Practice a fire drill at least every six months or when ever new guests are
with you. Practice allows you to test your plan before an emergency; you
may not be able to reach your children. It is important they know what to
do.
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D - 4
CAMPING
WHAT TO DO WHEN THE ALARM SOUNDS:
• Leave immediately by your escape plan. Every second counts, so don't
waste time getting dressed or picking up valuables.
• In leaving, don't open any inside door without first feeling its surface. If hot,
or if you see smoke seeping through cracks, don't open that door! Instead
use your alternate exit. If the inside of the door is cool, place your shoulder
against it, open it slightly and be ready to slam it shut if heat and smoke
rush in.
• Stay close to the floor if the air is smoky. Breathe shallowly through a cloth,
wet if possible.
• Once outside go to your selected meeting place and make sure everyone
is there.
• Call the fire department from your neighbor’s home - not from yours!
• Don't return to your home until the fire officials say that it is all right to do
so.
There are situations where a smoke detector may not be effective to protect against
fire as stated in the NFPA standards 72.
For instance:
a) Smoking in bed;
b) Leaving children home alone.
c) Cleaning with flammable liquids, such as gasoline.
Further information on fire safety can be obtained in a pamphlet titled “IN A FIRE
SECONDS COUNT” published by the NFPA, Batterymarch Park, Quincy, Mass. 02269.
SERVICE AND WARRANTY
If after reviewing this manual you feel that your smoke alarm is defective in any way, do
not tamper with the unit. Return it for servicing to: FYRNETICS, INC., 1055 STEVENSON
CT./STE 102W, ROSELLE, IL 60172. (See Warranty for in-warranty returns).
CARBON MONOXIDE ALARM
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.
CAREFULLY READ AND UNDERSTAND THE COMPLETE CONTENTS OF THE
INSTRUCTION MANUAL BEFORE USING THE ALARM.
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
presence of carbon monoxide (CO) which can KILL YOU.
WARNING: Alarm battery is shipped deactivated. Check your alarm
for proper battery installation.
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.
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.
D
CAMPING
D - 5
THIS CARBON MONOXIDE ALARM IS NOT
Designed to detect smoke, fire or any gas other than carbon monoxide.
To be seen as a substitute for the proper servicing of fuel-burning appliances.
To be used on an intermittent basis, or as a portable alarm for spillage of combustion
products from fuel-burning appliances.
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 monoxide gas at the sensor. Carbon
monoxide gas may be present in other areas.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
Introduction
This alarm which is designed to detect the presence of carbon monoxide. This
manual contains information on operation of the CO alarm. The green light flashes at
approximately 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 de-
tected. The alarm is suitable for use in areas where cooking and heating appliances
burn fuels such as wood, charcoal, coal, oil, gas, etc.
This carbon monoxide alarm is designed to detect carbon monoxide gas from any
source of combustion
WHAT IS CARBON MONOXIDE
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.
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.
D
D - 6
CAMPING
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:
Wind direction and/or velocity: including high gusts of wind. Heavy air in
the vent pipes (cold/humid air with extended periods between cycles).
Negative pressure differential resulting from sue of exhaust fans.
Simultaneous operation of several fuel burning appliances competing fur limited
internal air.
Vent pipe connections vibrating loose from clothes dryers, furnaces or water heaters.
Obstructions in or unconventional vent pipe designs which can amplify the above
situations.
2. Extended use of un-vented fuel burning devices.
3. Temperature increase that can trap exhaust gases near the ground.
SYMPTOMS OF CARBON MONOXIDE POISONING.
These symptoms are related to CO POISONING and should be discussed with users
of the RV.
Mild Exposure - Slight headache, nausea, vomiting, fatigue, (“flu-like” symptoms),
Medium Exposure - Throbbing headache, drowsiness, confusion, fast heart rate.
Extreme Exposure - Convulsions, unconsciousness, heart and lung failure,
Exposure to carbon monoxide can cause brain damage, death.
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.
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.
CARE AND MAINTENANCE OF ALARM
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.
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.
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,
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CAMPING
D - 7
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.
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 electri-
cal 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.
OPERATION
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.
CAUTION: 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 until the
impurities are “burned” off. This could take a number of hours, during which time
the alarm will be constantly “on”.
DETECTOR TEST
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.
LOW VOLTAGE
Below 10 VDC the detector will continue to operate but will blink alternately green and
orange. Below 8 VDC the unit will behave erratically and will eventually shut off. To
ensure proper operation, do not operate the unit below 10 VDC.
COMPONENT FAILURE
The failure of any circuit component will cause the detector to display a continuous
orange LED fault light and a short beep indicating failure. If this occurs, immediately
contact your dealer or Airstream Customer Service for the name of the nearest detec-
tor service center.
Please read the operating instructions for your detector, which have been supplied
with the paper work of your unit.
WARNING: Have a professional technician check all safety related
systems yearly or whenever any doubts of their ability to function properly arise.
OVERNIGHT STOP
In time you will develop a knack for spotting wonderful little roadside locations by turn-
ing off the main highway and exploring. There are many modern recreational vehicle
parks, including State, County and Federal parks with good facilities, where you may
obtain hookups of electrical, water and sewer connections. Directories are published
which describe in detail these parks and tell what is available in the way of services
and hookups.
All you need to do to enjoy the self-contained luxury is to:
1. Turn on LP gas supply and light appliance pilots if required.
2. Turn on water pump and open faucets until air is expelled from the system.
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D - 8
CAMPING
Before moving on, turn off the LP gas and water pump and lower your TV antenna.
Check your campsite, both for cleanliness and to be sure you haven’t left anything
behind. Make sure everything is properly stowed.
Overnight or Weekend Trips
On overnight or weekend trips, chances are you will not use up the capacity of the
holding tank, deplete the water supply, or run down the battery which supplies the
living area 12 volt current.
LONGER TRIP
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 list these dumping stations.
When you stop for the night, your Airstream motorhome is built to be safely parked in
any spot that is relatively level and where the ground is firm. Your facilities are with you.
You are self- contained. Try to pick as level a parking spot as possible.
EXTENDED STAY
Making a long trip is not very different from making a weekend excursion. Since every-
thing 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.
When you plan to stay in the same place for several days, weeks or months, you will
want your motorhome to be as level as possible. Check the attitude with a small spirit
level set on the inside work counter. If a correction is necessary, then you must first
level from side to side. This can be done most easily by driving up a small ramp con-
sisting of 2” x 6” boards tapered at both ends. WE DO NOT RECOMMEND PLACING
TIRES IN A HOLE FOR LEVELING. Check the tire section of the chassis portion of this
manual for information on tire support.
Hook Up to Water by attaching a ½ “ minimum high-pressure water hose to the city
water service.
Plug the Electrical Cable into the City Power Service. Be sure you have the wire
grounded and have the proper polarity. See Electrical Section for technical details.
A Cable/Satellite TV /Telephone Hookup is located on the outside of the mo-
torhome. It is already wired into the existing system, so the exterior connection is all
that is required.
To use the Generator you simply start it. All switching is done automatically. The gen-
erator can be started from the switch above the galley. It is easier on your generator
and appliances if you’ll allow the generator to reach its normal operating speed (about
a minute) prior to applying heavy current loads.
Hook your Waste Drain Hose into the Sewer Disposal Facility and attach to the
drain outlet in your motorhome. For details on this procedure see Drain and Waste
System Section.
Turn on the gas supply. Lighting a top range burner to bleed any air from the system
will make it easier to start other appliances.
When you stay for extended periods where electric or water hookups are not avail-
able, you must make regular checks on the condition of your 12-volt battery and the
contents of your water tank. Carry drinking water in a clean bucket to refill your tank.
When your waste tank nears capacity, move your motorhome to a dumping location.
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CAMPING
D - 9
EFFECTS OF PROLONGED OCCUPANCY
Your motorhome was designed primarily for recreational use and short-term occu-
pancy. If you expect to occupy the motorhome 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 mois-
ture saturation of the air contained in the trailer and the appearance of visible moisture,
especially in cold weather.
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 motorhome 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. 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. Appearance of these conditions may indicate a serious condensation
problem. When you recognize the signs of excessive moisture and condensation in
the motorhome, action should be taken to minimize their effects. For tips on control-
ling condensation see the “Tips To Controlling Condensation” section.
Note: Your motorhome is not designed, nor intended, for permanent housing.
Use of this product for long term or permanent occupancy may lead to prema-
ture 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
neglect, and may therefore reduce the warranty protection.
To avoid condensation problems, try to follow these tips to help alleviate
excess moisture:
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.
Keep the bathroom door closed and the vent or window open when bathing and for a
period of time after you have finished.
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.
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 allow some cool outside air to get inside the vehicle, so the furnace will
not recycle the humid interior air.
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.
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CAMPING
ABOUT MOLDS
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 ma-
terials, such as wood products and fabrics. Knowing the potential risks is important
for any type of homeowner to protect their investment.
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.
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. 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.*
Frequent use of your RV or cleaning regularly is an important preventive measure.
Further, any spills should 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.
For more information of controlling moisture in the RV, please read, “Tips to Controlling
Condensation,” located in this manual.
*If using a dehumidifier, please read and follow all manufacturer instructions and rec-
ommendations to the use and cleaning of the dehumidifier.
WINTER TRAVELING
Traveling in your motorhome during the cold winter months can be a most exhilarating
experience. There are, of course, certain precautions that must be taken as you would
in your home in low temperatures.
The Interstate Rear Bath motorhome has 12-Volt heat pad installed with the gray/black
combination-holding tank and the Interstate Mid Bath has the heat pad on the gray
tank. The black tank on the Mid bath model is above the floor allowing heat from the
furnace to protect it from freezing. This switch for the heating pad is located next to the
monitor panel. To conserve battery power, RV antifreeze may be used to protect the
gray/black tank. Battery power will last about 6 hours unless the unit is plugged into a
110-volt shoreline source to operate the converter/battery charger.
WARNING: Always shut off the LP gas when gasoline is added to the
fuel tank.
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 rising? Remember, the
wind chill factor when driving 50 MPH will cause the interior of the motorhome to cool
much faster than when it is parked.
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CAMPING
D - 11
1. You must have a plentiful supply of propane gas as the heat from the furnace
warms the motorhome and keeps the fresh water lines and tank from freezing.
2. If your stay is longer than overnight, you should endeavor to have 120-volt elec-
tricity available. The house battery, fully charged, will not last more than about 15
hours in freezing weather, less with use of the holding tank heating pad. Of course,
you can run your generator to recharge the battery, or even use the generator
continually. Since the generator starts off the house battery, it is recommended to
start the generator prior to running the battery down.
3. Minimize use of electricity if 120-volt power source is not available.
4. Leave cabinet doors, wet bath doors and wardrobe doors slightly open at night to
allow circulation of air in and around all components
5. Use propylene glycol type antifreeze in wastewater tank to prevent freezing.
Quantity of antifreeze needed will vary with ambient temperature and the amount
of liquids in tank.
6. For extended stays in cold weather, insulate the water line outside the motorhome.
You should remember that low temperatures in combination with high winds cause
an equivalent chill temperature much below what your thermometer is reading. For
instance, with an outside temperature of zero degrees, and the wind velocity of 10
miles per hour, the equivalent chill temperature is minus 20° F. The exterior water
faucet has an in-line valve inside the motorhome. In below freezing temperatures,
shut off the valve inside and open the exterior brass valve so it will drain. See the
valve section in this book for locations.
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E - 1
EXTERIOR
The exterior of your Airstream Interstate motorhome has been painted by Carrera
Designs, a company specializing in custom recreational vehicles, with a Sherwin-
Williams automotive finish. Carrera Design provides samples of the paint for minor
repairs and a use and care brochure with each motorhome as it leaves their facility. The
brochure has a paint code sticker containing paint information.
This information comes from Carrera Designs Used and Care Brochure.
Following these procedures can provide a long lasting, high-gloss finish for your
recreational vehicle. These same procedures can also be applied to your everyday
automobile, producing the same long-lasting results.
Waxes and Polishes
Over 90 percent of all automotive finishes are clear coat. The finish on your RV is a
state-of-the-art Acrylic Urethane Basecoat/ClearCoat. This means that what you will
wash and polish is a clear urethane coating designed to protect the basecoat: the pig-
mented coating that provides color. As its main function of protecting the basecoat,
clearcoats need to be maintained especially in harsh environments. Clearcoats do not
fade themselves, but appear to fade or lose gloss as the surface becomes contami-
nated by the environment. If this contamination is not removed frequently, results will
be a dull or low gloss finish. Occasional washing alone will not adequately remove
some forms of contamination and will require polishing.
Polishes and waxes primarily served the following purposes:
1. To remove minor surface imperfections caused by water spots and acid rain.
2. To remove minor scratches by filling them and leveling the surface.
3. To beautify the paint finish appearances with more depth and high-gloss.
4. To protect the paint finish from the elements.
Do not use products that contain harsh abrasives such as rubbing or polishing com-
pounds. These products should be used by experienced technicians with the proper
training and equipment. Most polishes and waxes are designed to clean and polish in
one application whether by hand or machine. A machine applied polish will last longer
than one applied by hand because the high rpm buffing will create heat, resulting in a
deeper wax film with higher gloss.
However, a hand applied polish or wax will offer outstanding performance and protect
the RVs finish. When applying polish or wax, do so in a shaded area making sure
the RV surface is at the specified temperature according to the polish manufacturers
recommendations. Due to the variations of polishes and waxes, incorporate the fol-
lowing suggestions into the polishing technique:
1. Condition the polishing pad by rubbing a slight amount of polish on it.
2. Use only the amount of polish specified in the label directions.
3. Work a small area at a time.
4. Rinse off and remove dried polish from crevices, trim and moldings.
For more information, call 574 -- 295 -- 7907.
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E - 2
How to Care for Your RV Finish
Keeping your RV looking its best at all times involves keeping the paint finish clean
and in good condition. This means periodic washing and polishing, as well as getting
the paint finish repaired as soon as possible when the paint is damage or affected in
anyway. The purpose of the paint finish is twofold:
(1) Provide an aesthetically pleasing appearance.
(2) To protect the vehicle from the environment. Your RV is exposed to many environ-
mental conditions that have an adverse effect on the paint finish:
1. ROAD SALTS AND SODIUM CHLORIDE
2. ROAD TAR/BUGS
3. BIRD DROPPINGS/TREE SAP
4. INDUSTRIAL FALLOUT/ACID RAIN/POLLUTION
5. ULTRAVIOLET EXPOSURE AND MOISTURE
The most common problems resulting from these conditions are corrosion, staining
and chemical spotting. These problems can be minimized through regularly scheduled
washing and polishing.
Washing your RV:
Make sure the RVs surface temperature is not too hot, under 90 degrees Fahrenheit,
and not in direct sunlight. A shady area is ideal for washing your vehicle as direct
sunlight causes water and soap to evaporate too fast, resulting in water spotting. Use
a mild soap or detergent. Most auto care stores carry a car wash shampoo. Try
to avoid combination wash-n-wax products as these waxes cause buildup and are
designed for smaller surfaces. Have two dedicated sponges or wax mitts: one for
the paint finish and one for the wheels and under carriage. Brushes or wash mitts
that have plastic bristles are acceptable for use on tires and wheel wells, but are not
intended for use on the paint finish.
Avoid using such items on painted surfaces, as they will damage the RV paint and
finish. Wash the wheels and wheel wells first as this removes heavy dirt and debris
and prevents it from splattering on already clean panels. Wet the entire area down to
remove loose dirt and grime, hand wash one area at time using your dedicated paint
finish sponge or wash mitt. Wash from the top and work your way down, frequently
rinsing the rinsing to minimize grit abrasion. Follow with a final rinse of water. If
This process will remove most contamination from the RVs surface. For stubborn
stains such as road tar, use an ammonia based glass cleaner or a small amount of
rubbing alcohol on a damp cloth immediately followed by warm soapy water and rinse
with clean water. This may not dissolve the road tar, but will loosen tar and bugs stains
and remove them from the surface. Do not use solvent based cleaners on bird drop-
pings or tree sap as these are water-based stains and will eventually dissolve using an
ammonia based glass cleaner, warm soapy water and a little “elbow grease”. Once
again, after removing stubborn stains immediately rinse with clean water.
Drying the RV is just as important as washing your vehicle as today’s tap water and
well water contain many chemicals that could water stain your RVs finish. We suggest
using a damp natural or synthetic chamois, however, there are other drying products
such as lint free micro-fiber towels that work just as well.
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E - 3
EXTERIOR
PRECAUTIONS
Careful maintenance for the first 60 days after the paint and clear coat are applied will
ensure a long-lasting durable finish. Do not wax or polish for the first 60 days.
First 30 days PARKING:
Avoid parking under trees or near ocean salt spray.
Ice or snow should not be scraped from the painted service: BRUSH OFF!
If a motorhome sets more than 24 hours, remove any protective covering
(bra) while not being driven.
First 30 days WASHING:
Commercial washes should be avoided.
Wash with cold water using a mild liquid soap.
Dry wiping with a drying cloth is not recommended.
First 30 days DRIVING:
Gravel roads should be avoided.
Antifreeze, gasoline or window solvents, if spilled on the painted service
should be rinse off with water immediately.
Bugs or bird droppings should be rinsed off with water daily.
Follow the simple cautionary measures, and your new finish will give you maximum
gloss and durability.
Carrera Designs
1101 Herman Street,
Elkhart, Indiana 46516
Phone: 574-295-7907
Facsimile: 574-295-1547
www.carreradesigns.com
It is recommended that the caulking and sealant used in external seams and joints
such as window frames, light bezels, beltline and rub-rail molding, etc., be checked
regularly. If this material has dried out and becomes 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 motorhome dealer and most RV
supply stores.
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EXTERIOR
E - 4
Roadside Exterior Features, Rear Bath
NOTE: This is a basic explanation of the location and
function of exterior features. More in depth explana-
tions of certain feature’s care and maintenance is
include in this manual in other sections.
1. City Water Hook-up provides access for city water
to your fresh water system. Use ½” minimum hose
for water supply.
2. Refrigerator exterior access door and vent pro-
vides access to the refrigerator for service and sup-
plies air for the cooling process. Blocking the airflow
will affect the operation of your refrigerator.
3. LP Fill Door accesses the remote fill for LP gas.
4. Electric Dump Valve Switch is located on the show-
er panel inside the rear cargo doors. Push and hold
the switch to open the holding tank dump valve.
5. Fiberglass Running Boards and fender skirts are
installed by Airstream.
6. Refrigerator exhaust vent draws air from the
refrigerator access door vent across the refrigera-
tor-cooling unit. Please keep free from obstructions.
All vents should be cleaned regularly by a qualified
service technician.
7. Radio Antenna, rubber, for living quarters enter-
tainment center. Sprinter has another antenna for
the dash unit.
8. Fantastic Roof Vent, exhaust only, complete oper-
ating instructions are in the appliance section of this
manual. Keep all vents clear to encourage airflow.
9. Roof rack is for cosmetic purposes only and not
designed to carry any type of cargo.
10. Furnace exhaust vent should be cleaned regu-
larly. When operating furnace, be sure exhaust can
escape into a well-ventilated area. Air coming from
vent can be hot, when parking the motorhome, be
sure to have proper clearance in venting area.
11. Sewer Hose Storage contains a sewer hose and
connector for the holding tank dump valve.
12. 110 Volt Power Cord Inlet, 30-amp service is re-
quired, power cord is stored inside rear cargo doors
in a plastic storage compartment.
13. Cable/Satellite TV/Telephone Jack is a weather-
proof module pre-wired for cable TV and telephone
reception. A portable satellite dish can also be used
in the cable connection.
14. Holding Tank Outlet w/Electric Dump Valve is to
drain gray/black combination tank. Remove sewer
hose from storage compartment, uncap valve outlet,
hook hose connector to dump valve bayonet ring.
Be sure end of hose is inserted into sewage tank
and push/hold remote switch located inside the rear
cargo doors.
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11
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4
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10
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E - 5
EXTERIOR
Curbside Exterior Features, Rear Bath
NOTE: This is a basic explanation of the location and
function of exterior features. More in depth explanations
of certain feature’s care and maintenance is include in
this manual in other sections.
1. Water Fill w/Lock is used to fill the fresh water tank.
Use only clean fresh potable water.
2. Exterior Shower can be used on the water pump or
with the city water hook up.
3. Porch Light is switched just inside the side cargo
door.
4. Electronic Ignition Water Heater Door and Vent is part
of the plumbing system. The intake vent, drain plug
and exhaust vent are located inside this door. Regular
maintenance by a qualified service technician is re-
quired to keep the water heater operating efficiently.
5. Patio Awning operating and care instructions are
including in another section of this manual.
6. TV Outlet/12 Volt Outlet provides reception for an ex-
terior television. It is pre-wired and integrated into the
Cable TV/Satellite TV system. There is also a 12 Volt
cigarette-style outlet for a 12 volt operated television.
7. Power Boosted TV Antenna is wired into TV outlets
on exterior of coach and inside unit at entertain-
ment center cabinet.
8. Holding Tank Vent provides a vent for the black/
gray combination tank.
9. Exterior 110 Volt Outlet provides an exterior GFI
protected electrical source.
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EXTERIOR
E - 6
Roadside Exterior Features, Mid Bath
NOTE: This is a basic explanation of the location and
function of exterior features. More in depth explana-
tions of certain feature’s care and maintenance is
include in this manual in other sections.
1. City Water Hook-up provides access for city water
to your fresh water system. Use ½” minimum hose
for water supply.
2. Refrigerator exterior access door and vent pro-
vides access to the refrigerator for service and sup-
plies air for the cooling process. Blocking the airflow
will affect the operation of your refrigerator.
3. LP Fill Door accesses the remote fill for LP gas.
4. Cable/Satellite TV/Telephone Jack is a weather-
proof module pre-wired for cable TV and telephone
reception. A portable satellite dish can also be used
in the cable connection.
5. Fiberglass Running Boards and fender skirts are
installed by Airstream.
6. Refrigerator exhaust vent draws air from the
refrigerator access door vent across the refrigera-
tor-cooling unit. Please keep free from obstructions.
All vents should be cleaned regularly by a qualified
service technician.
7. Radio Antenna, rubber, for living quarters enter-
tainment center. Sprinter has another antenna for
the dash unit.
8. Fantastic Roof Vent, exhaust only, complete oper-
ating instructions are in the appliance section of this
manual. Keep all vents clear to encourage airflow.
9. Roof rack is for cosmetic purposes only and not
designed to carry any type of cargo.
10. Furnace exhaust vent should be cleaned regu-
larly. When operating furnace, be sure exhaust can
escape into a well-ventilated area. Air coming from
vent can be hot, when parking the motorhome, be
sure to have proper clearance in venting area.
11. Roof AC
12. Sewer Hose Storage contains a sewer hose and
connector for the holding tank dump valve.
13. Exterior Shower can be used on the water pump
or with the city water hook up.
14. Holding Tank Vent provides a vent for the black/
gray combination tank.
15. Fresh Water Low Point Drain Lines are located
under the unit just inside the floor board. Manual
dump valves for the main and auxilliary holding
tanks are also located in this area. Remove sewer
hose from storage compartment, uncap valve outlet,
hook hose connector to dump valve bayonet ring.
Be sure end of hose is inserted into sewage tank. It
will help to flush the sewer hose if the main tank is
opened first and then the auxillary tank.
110 Volt Power Cord Inlet, 30-amp service is required,
power cord is stored inside rear cargo doors in a
plastic storage compartment.
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7
8
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4
9
10
14
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E
E - 7
EXTERIOR
Curbside Exterior Features, Mid Bath
NOTE: This is a basic explanation of the location and
function of exterior features. More in depth explanations
of certain feature’s care and maintenance is include in
this manual in other sections.
1. Water Fill w/Lock is used to fill the fresh water tank.
Use only clean fresh potable water.
2. Porch Light is switched just inside the side cargo
door.
3. Electronic Ignition Water Heater Door and Vent is part
of the plumbing system. The intake vent, drain plug
and exhaust vent are located inside this door. Regular
maintenance by a qualified service technician is re-
quired to keep the water heater operating efficiently.
4. Patio Awning operating and care instructions are
including in another section of this manual.
5. TV Outlet/12 Volt Outlet provides reception for an ex-
terior television. It is pre-wired and integrated into the
Cable TV/Satellite TV system. There is also a 12 Volt
cigarette-style outlet for a 12 volt operated television.
6. Exterior 110 Volt Outlet provides an exterior GFI pro-
tected electrical source.
7. Power Boosted TV Antenna is wired into TV outlets
on exterior of coach and inside unit at entertainment
center cabinet.
8. Holding Tank Vent provides a vent for the black/gray
combination tank.
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3
4
5
6
7
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EXTERIOR
E - 8
PATIO AWNING
OPERATION
NOTICE: The sliding entrance door must be shut to extend the awning, without this
happening the arm and the opening cover will contact the door. Once the awning is
extended the sliding door will open and shut fine without any interference.
1. TO EXTEND AWNING:
A. Adjust the crank handle to the required length. To adjust the crank handle,
twist the locking knob on the crank counter-clockwise to loosen. Extend
bottom portion of the crank assembly outward or retract inward to match
the required length. Twist the locking knob clockwise to tighten the crank
assembly. The crank is stored on the curbside lounge access door.
B. Hook the end of
the crank handle
into the gear as-
sembly loop of the
awning assembly.
Turn the crank
counter- clockwise.
Crank the awning
out far enough to
gain access to the
secondary support
arms.
C. Unlock flipper latch located on the support arm. Slide arm outward until the arm
is released from the support arm catch. Swing the arms downward and out of the
lead rail.
D. Adjust the support arm to the required
height and fasten by pulling up on the flip-
per latch.
Twist Locking knob to adjust length
Unlock flipper latch,
slide arm forward
Lock Unlock Lock
Gear
Assembly
Loop
Insert the end of
the crank handle into
the gear assemly loop
and turn counter-clockwise
to extend
E
E - 9
EXTERIOR
E. Unroll the awning completely
moving the support arms each
time when necessary.
F. To use the carport position, drive ground stakes through the holes in the carport
foot and into the ground for support. CAUTION. GROUND STAKES WILL NOT
PREVENT THE AWNING FROM MOVING IN THE WIND!
G. To use the bottom brackets, swing each arm toward the
vehicle, lift the bracket pin and position foot into bracket
and then release the pin.
H. Turn crank until awning is all of the way out. Turn the crank back a partial turn to
backwind the awning slightly. This tightens the fabric.
2. TO RETRACT AWNING:
A. Remove the support arms from the bottom
bracket, or remove the ground stake if in the
carport position.
B. Slide the support arms together and pivot them
into the lead-rail for storage by reversing Step 1C
on the previous page.
C. Hook the end of the crank handle into the
crank loop of the awning assembly. (Right) Roll
fabric up by turning the crank handle clockwise,
or opposite of what was done to extend the awning. Roll awning up until the lead
rail is completely retracted into the case. CAUTION: THE FABRIC MUST ROLL
UNDERNEATH THE ROLLER TUBE! ROLLING THE FABRIC OVER THE ROLLER
TUBE WILL BLOCK THE GEAR BOX FROM PROPERLY RETRACTING!
3. AWNING USE IN WIND AND RAIN.
To prevent water build up on the awning, position one upper arm substantially lower
than the other to create enough of a slope for adequate water run off.
NOTE: IF WIND OR EXTENDED PERIODS OF RAIN ARE EXPECTED, ROLL UP
THE AWNING AND SECURE FOR TRAVEL!
CAUTION: THE EFFECTS OF WIND AND RAIN ON ANY AWNING ARE
UNPREDICTABLE. SEVER
DAMAGE TO THE VEHICLE
AND OR THE AWNING MAY
RESULT AND CANNOT BE
COVERED BY WARRANTY!
CARE AND MAINTENANCE
Lift Pin
Bracket
Insert the end of
the crank handle
into the gear
assemly loop
and turn
clockwise
to extend
E
EXTERIOR
E - 10
CARE OF FABRIC
A. VINYL FABRIC. Mildew will not form on the awning material itself, but may form
on the dust allowed to accumulate on the canopy. A mild detergent (soap & water)
will keep your awning looking new. Once cleaned make sure the awning is rinsed
thoroughly and is dried before storing. DO NOT USE BLEACH!
B. ACRYLIC FABRIC. A mild detergent (soap &water) should be used to clean the
acrylic canopy. Rinse thoroughly and allow the canopy to be dried before rolling up
the awning.
CAUTION. DO NOT USE BLEACH, CAUSTIC CLEANERS OR METAL CLEANERS
ON ACRYLIC AS THEY WILL CA USE PERMANENT DAMAGE TO FABRIC!
2. PERIODIC MAINTENANCE
Like any other part of the RV, an owner should periodically inspect the awning. The
following items should be checked.
A. All mounting brackets are tight.
B. Check all pivot points for enlargements of holes or broken rivets.
C. Check end caps for cracking, splitting.
D. Check that awning rail is tight against coach and all screws are tight.
E. Check canopy for loose stitching and possible shrinkage or puckering.
F
F - 1
INTERIOR
The interior of your Airstream motorhome has been designed to take a limited amount
of space and provide you with all the comfort, convenience, durability and appear-
ance possible. An understanding of the operational procedures and maintenance
techniques of the interior appointments will add to your pleasures, as well as to the
long life of your motorhome.
Rear Bath
To convert the lounges into a bed, grasp the front edge of the seat, pull straight up
and pull it toward the aisle of the motorhome. The backrest will slide down into place
automatically. Extending both sofas form a double bed.
On the dinette option, the pedestal table is stored under the passenger side lounge
on a shelf. Open the aisle door for access. Insert the two stands into the top and then
insert the table into the pedestal braces in the aisle way. An additional table is stored
behind the driver’s seat. Two portalegs are provided so the table can be used outside
or where ever you like.
Dinette, Mid Bath
When not in use the pedestal table is stored under the rear lounge on a shelf. The table
sits on two stands that inserts into fixed pedestals between the dinette seats.
Inside the rear doors is a box that can be used for several purposes such as ice stor-
age. There is a drain plug in the bottom of the box that drains to the exterior of the unit.
The box lid is also a table top. Two portalegs are provided so the table can be used
outside or where ever you like.
The dinette seats and rear sofa transformed into a rear bed. The dinette table top rests
on stops fastened to the dinette seats. The rear sofa folds out by lifting up on the seat
edge and pulling out. The backrest will slide down into place automatically. The sofa
slides against the table top, arrange the dinette cushions to form the bed.
Vinyl Floor
The vinyl floor in your unit can be cleaned with liquid floor cleaning solutions recom-
mended for vinyl floors and warm water.
CAUTION: Warn occupants of the vehicle when fresh wax has been applied, just
like a home, the floor will be slippery.
Cabinets/Overhead Lockers/Counter areas
The furniture is manufactured from of a high-pressure laminate and can be cleaned
with soap and water, or you can use a common solvent on tough spots. Furniture
polish can be used sparingly.
The glass doors on the entertainment center must be cleaned with a anti-static
cleaner and cloth. Windex or common ammonia products will damage the coating
on the surface.
CAUTION: Do not use any abrasive material. Abrasive cleaners, cloths and pads
should not be used, as there is the possibility it could scratch the surface. A
protective pad should always be placed under hot utensils.
Wet Bath
To clean your ULTRA/GLAS 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
of your ULTRA/GLAS unit. Stubborn stains can be removed with solvents such as
turpentine, paint thinner or acetone. Restore dulled areas by rubbing with an automo-
tive-type liquid cleaner, and then put the soft glow back into your ULTRA/GLAS unit
with a light application of liquid wax.
F
INTERIOR
F - 2
INTERIOR (continued)
Sink
Cleaning can be accomplished using mild liquid detergent with a soft cloth. Rinse
carefully and dry. Silver polish will leave spots that cannot be removed. A complete
Home Owners Guide for your sinks is supplied in your Owner’s Folder. The acrylic top
should be cleaned with a soft cloth. Never use abrasives on the sink or its cover.
Metal Interior Skin
The metal interior skin is coated with a baked on acrylic coating. Use soft rags or wash
mitts always moving lengthwise with the grain of the aluminum. 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 metal with a chamois or a soft
cloth may prevent spots and streaks. WHEN WASHING OR WAXING THE METAL,
ALWAYS WIPE “WITH” THE GRAIN OF THE METAL.
After cleaning and drying, a good grade of nonabrasive automotive paste or liquid wax
once a year will increase the life of the finish and help remove minor scratched and
abrasions. It will also protect the metal from minor scratches and make subsequent
cleaning easier.
If a substance is found on the coating that cannot be removed by normal washing pro-
cedures, 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 condi-
tions. Use the Acryli-Clean as sparingly as possible to remove oil or grease. Rinse with
cool water immediately after use.
CAUTION: ABRASIVE POLISHES OR CLEANING SOLVENTS ARE TOO STRONG
AND SHOULD NEVER BE USED. RINSE ALL GRIT FROM SURFACE PRIOR TO
WASHING. Use soft rags or wash mitts always moving lengthwise with the metal.
NEVER rub hard on the coating. Even the softest rag will damage the coating if
excessive pressure is applied.
Fabric Cleaning
Use an automotive upholstery shampoo product or the foam from a mild detergent.
With either method, pretest a small area before proceeding. Use professional furniture
cleaner when an overall soiled condition is reached.
Front Privacy Drape
Unsnap the drapes to remove. Wash on gentle cycle.
Shades
Nightshades are lowered and raised by the bars running across the shade. Grasp in
the center of the bar or place hands evenly on the bar. Pull the bottom bar up or down
to open or close the shade. Rough roads and long trips may cause the pleated shades
to move slightly during travel. Tensions on the strings at the sides of the shades adjust
the ease of operation and their ability to stay up during travel. Do not over-tighten as
this may cause the string to break, requiring service.
A feather duster or the soft-bristled brush often found as part of vacuum cleaner at-
tachments, are recommended for cleaning the pleated shades. The longevity of the
pleated shades will be increased if the shades are closed, glass shows, when your
vehicle is stored.
G
G - 1
PLUMBING
LPG SYSTEM
Your motorhome is equipped with a permanently
mounted tank for LPG (Liquid Petroleum Gas) with a
remote fill. LPG burns with a clean blue flame. There
are two basic types of LPG in common usage: Butane
and Propane. Butane is widely used where tempera-
tures are normally above freezing the year round, and
Propane is used where subfreezing temperatures are
common, since Butane freezes at 32° F. as compared
to -40° F. for Propane. ALL OF THE ORIFICES IN THE
LPG APPLIANCES ARE OF THE UNIVERSAL TYPE
THAT WILL BURN EITHER FUEL. 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 cook extensively, 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
four weeks of usage from the tank.
If you have allowed the tank 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 can
light the pilots. Hold a match to the pilot of the appli-
ance closest to the tanks until it lights and stays lit.
Then move to the next closest, etc.
LP TANK REMOTE FILL
The LP tank in filled by accessing the remote fill hook
up located inside the LP Fill Door on the roadside of
the vehicle. Be sure the fill is free of dirt. It may help to
remind your LP supplier to only use a clean fill hose to
fill your tank.
WARNING: Only certified LP suppliers
should fill the LP Tank. Turn remote gas supply
switch off before filling or refilling LP tank.
REMOTE GAS SUPPLY SWITCH
A remote switch for shutting off the gas to all appli-
ances is located inside this compartment. The switch
activates an electric solenoid that opens and closes,
shutting the gas off at the tank. The switch rotates ¼
turn. This switch should be turned off during the fill-
ing of the LP tank. NOTE: The electric gas shut-off
solenoid closes automatically when 12-volt power is
disconnected. It will reopen when power is restored
WARNING: All pilot lights and appliances
must be turned off during refueling of motorhome
fuel tank and permanently mounted LPG tank.
Gas lines should be checked periodically for leaks
with ammonia free soapy water.
Do not use open flame. If gas can be smelled, ap-
pliance pilots fail to stay on, or any other abnormal
situation occurs, use the remote supply switch to
shut off the tank valve immediately and call on a
qualified LPG service center or Airstream Service
Center.
CAUTION: Moisture in the LPG tank will cause a
malfunction of the regulator in controlling proper pres-
sure. This may result in the flame lifting off the burner,
or the flame may go out frequently. Many refueling sta-
tions will add approximately ¼ to ½ gallon of alcohol
to lower the moisture temperature. Moisture will then
pass through the regulator without the formation of ice
crystals.
Door
Frame
Gas On
Gas Off
Switch
Outside
Compartment
Inside
Compartment
G
PLUMBING
G - 2
LPG Regulator
The LPG regulators used on Airstream motorhomes are designed for low-pressure ser-
vice, with a normal outlet pressure setting of 11.5 inches water column. Only personnel
trained in the proper procedures, codes, standards, etc., should service regulators.
Have the regulator inspected each time the tank is refilled.
Replace any regulator that has had water in the spring case, or shows evidence of
external corrosion, or corrosion inside the spring case. Closely examine regulators
directly connected to the container valve by means of a solid POL adapter (horizontal
mounting) for signs of corrosion. (An Airstream Service Center is recommended for
this service.)
BASIC RULES FOR SAFETY
WARNING:
DO NOT store LP containers within vehicle. LP containers are equipped with
safety devices that vent gas should the pressure become excessive.
DO NOT use cooking appliances for comfort heating. Cooking appliances need
fresh air for safe operation. Before operation open overhead vent or turn on
exhaust fan and open window.
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 asphyxia-
tion. 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.
Portable fuel burning equipment, including wood and 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.
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 that can
cause fire or explosion. A properly filled container will contain approximately 80
percent of its volume as liquid LP gas.
Do not bring or store LP gas containers, gasoline or other flammable liquids
inside the vehicle because a fire or explosion may result.
WARNING: If you smell gas:
1. Extinguish any open flames, pilot lights and all smoking materials.
2. Do not touch electrical switches.
3. Shut off the gas supply at the tank valve(s) or gas supply connection.
4. Open doors and other ventilating openings.
5. Leave the area until odor clears.
6. Have the gas system checked and leakage source corrected before using again.
G
G - 3
PLUMBING
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 that could result in excessive gas
pressure causing fire or explosion.
The regulator at the L.P. tank is under a gray plastic cover. The protective cover cer-
tainly helps to keep the vent on the regulator from being clogged by wasps or ice, but
should still be checked regularly to make sure the vent remains clear.
WARNING: Do not attempt to seal regulator cover.
WARNING: Check vent each time tank is filled to make sure it is clear
of obstructions.
Gas Regulator Removal/Replacement
1. Shut off main gas supply at the tank.
2. Remove the plastic protective cover from the regulator assembly
3. Using two wrenches, one to hold the line fitting and one to turn the flare nut,
disconnect the regulator from the flexible rubber line.
4. Disconnect the regulator from the tank fitting. Remove regulator.
5. To replace, reverse the removal procedures.
G
PLUMBING
G - 4
WATER SYSTEM - SELF-CONTAINED
The fresh water system consists of a city water hook up, fresh water tank fill, fresh
water tank and drain valve, water-pump, pump filter, hot and cold water lines, water
heater, fresh water line drain valves, and faucets.
To operate the system:
Turn the water heater by-pass valves to normal flow
position.
The by-pass valves are located under the galley
cabinet, and are accessed by opening the lower
door.
For normal operation open valves A and C and
close valve B. (Reverse the valves and drain the
water heater for winterization).
Check all drain valves and turn them to the closed position as needed.
Fill the water tank by opening the exterior door marked water fill, remove screw cap
and pull the vent plug. A garden hose can now be inserted or use a clean bucket
and funnel to fill the tank. It’s a good idea to let the water run through the hose for a
short time to flush it out. RVers sometimes fill their tanks with “home” water to avoid
strange water that may be distasteful to them on short outings. Remember the more
water you carry in the fresh water tank, the less cargo carrying capacity you have for
other items.
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.
Open the hot side of the galley, wet-bath, or exterior shower faucet and fill the water
heater by turning on the water pump switch or by connecting to an exterior city water
source. 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. CAUTION: Do
operate the water heater until it is full of water. Now open a cold faucet. It will
sputter for a short time, but will soon expel a steady stream. All other faucets can now
be opened until all air is expelled.
Once the system is filled with water and the faucets are closed, the water pump will
shut off.
CAUTION: To prevent equipment damage the water heater should only be
started after the water system is primed and ready for use.
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.
It is normal for a pump to occasionally cycle when all faucets are off to keep the water
pressure at the set point. However, if it cycles frequently (more than a few times an
hour) the plumbing system and pump should be checked to be sure it is not loosing
pressure through a slow water leak or back through the pump.
CAUTION: Turn the water pump off when the motorhome is left unattended.
A
B
C
Hot
Cold
G
G - 5
PLUMBING
WATER PUMP AND STRAINER
Manufacturer:
Shur-Flo
1740 Markle Street
Elkhart, Indiana 46514
Phone: 219-294-7581
The water pump and strainer are located inside the
rear cargo door on the Rear Bath Model. The Mid Bath
model has the pump under the galley and can be ac-
cessed by opening the lower galley door. The strainer
should be visually checked for accumulation of sand
or debris that could affect water flow.
To clean the strainer
screen, first remove
the 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.
When reassembling only rotate the inlet side of the
strainer until the stops are felt. The “O” ring performs
the sealing and too much pressure will only break
the strainer.
CAUTION: The Sureflo water pump should be
turned off when hooked to city water.
SANITIZING
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:
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.
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. Doubling the
solution concentration will allow 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.
NOTE: The sanitizing procedure outlined above is in
conformance with the approved procedures of RVIA
ANSI A 119.2 and the U.S. Public Health Service.
Intake
Strainer
Turn Intake Counter-
Clockwise to remove
Water Pump
G
PLUMBING
G - 6
CITY WATER HOOKUP
Use a high-pressure hose of at least ½ “ diameter. It should be a tasteless, odorless
and non- toxic hose 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. Be sure to turn
the water heater bypass to the normal flow position as described under the Water
System Self-Contained part of this section so it will fill.
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 motorhome 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.
CAUTION: The Sureflo water pump should be turned off when hooked to city
water.
Your plumbing system has a built in pressure regulator to protect your lines and faucets
from extremely high pressures on some city water systems. An after-market external
regulator is not recommended, as it could lower the water pressure at the inlet and
thus to your faucets and shower.
Exterior Shower
An exterior shower is provided for your convenience. Be sure to drain the hose and
open the valves before opening the low point drain lines for winterization.
12
3
1. Water Tank Fill
2. City water Hook Up
3. Hose Door
G
G - 7
PLUMBING
GALLEY FAUCET
MODEL 67315C
Manufacturer:
United States Canada
Moen Incorporated Moen Inc.
25300 Al Moen Drive 2816 Bristol Circle
North Olmstead, OH. 44070-8022 Oakville, Ontario L6H5s7
www.moen.com
For US customer service, warranty, and a local parts outlets contact Moen at 1-800-
BUY-MOEN (289-6636).
For Canadian service contact: Toronto 905-829-3400,
Rest of Canada 1-800-465-6130
Care Instructions
As with any fine polished surface, your faucet will retain its shine for years to come with
proper care. The LifeShine™ finish on the faucet does not require the extraordinary
work needed to maintain most fine polished brass finishes.
Be sure to read and follow usage instructions enclosed any scour pad or scrub sponge
before use.
• CAUTION: Do not use pads or sponges that specifically do not recom-
mend use for cleaning polished services.
• CAUTION: Many pads or sponges with green fibrous surface (such as
Scotch-Brite™ heavy duty scrub sponges) contain microscopic mineral
particles that can scratch nearly all polished services, including this
faucet finish.
The LifeShine™ finish can be cleaned with most household cleaners (including mild
abrasives), when used according to their manufacturers instructions for use.
• Rinse any strong cleaners off immediately after used to maintain the
LifeShine™ finish luster.
Mild scrubbing with fine steel wool (0000 grade) can remove build up dirt or water
stains.
Visible water spots on this highly lustrous and reflective finish can be easily wiped off
with a cloth dampened with water or with glass cleaner.
G
PLUMBING
G - 8
GALLEY FAUCET
SERVICE
CAUTION: Always turn water OFF before remov-
ing existing faucet or disassembling the valve. Open
faucet handle to relieve water pressure and ensure that
complete water shutoff has been accomplished.
1. Remove red/blue plug bottom (3) from front of
lever handle, remove screw (2) and lever handle
(1). Unscrew handle screw (4) and lift off the handle
adapter (5) (with handle connector (6) attached).
2. Unscrew collar (9) being careful not to damage
the finish, lift out pivot retainer (10). Unscrew the
retainer nut using channel locks and remove the
O-ring (12) and bearing washer (13). Remove wash-
ers (7) and (8) from the cartridge stem
3. Pry out retainer clip (14) with flat bladed screwdriver.
4. Grasp cartridge stem with a pair pliers and pull
cartridge (15) straight up and out of body.
Reinstall has follows: Install cartridge (15) into valve
body with notched flat on stem facing forward. Be sure
to position the ears of the cartridge in the front and
back. Reinstall the retainer clip (14) that straddles the
ears on the cartridge. Continue reassembly by revers-
ing the steps discussed in steps 1-3.
Note: To service vacuum breaker assembly, (anti-si-
phon protection) the hose must be disconnected from
the threaded discharge prior to removing the spout
receptor (20).
To Correct reversed Hot and Cold Positions:
(It is necessary to shut off water supplies)
1. Position handle so that it points toward you.
Remove handle (follow instructions for SERVICE
step 1 only).
2. Turn cartridge stem so that the notch is turned ½
turn or 180 degrees.
3. Reinstall handle following SERVICE instructions.
1234
7
15
15
5
4
812
9
13
310
14
11
20
2
1Ear Clip
NotchTurn Stem
1/2 Turn
Notched Flat
on stem
G
G - 9
PLUMBING
DRAIN VALVE LOCATIONS
The fresh water system has three drain valves.
On the Rear Bath the drain valves are accessible by opening the rear cargo doors.
There are two low point water line drain valves and the fresh water tank drain valve
located in this area.
On the Mid bath model the fresh water tank drain valve is located by the water pump
under the galley. The hot and cold water lines drain valves are located under the mo-
torhome on the roadside just behind the floor board and in front of the holding tank
dump valves.
Waterline
open
close
Shut off valve positions
G
PLUMBING
G - 10
TOILET
Manufacturer: Canada:
Thetford Corporation Thetford Sanitation Ltd.
7101 Jackson Road 2710 Slough Street
Ann Arbor, MI 48103 Mississauga, Ontario
313-769-6000 Canada, L4T 1G3
The RV toilet in your Airstream is a design that has been used for many years. In normal
use, when you are hooked up to city water, both pedals are depressed together. This
dumps the sewage and flushes fresh water down the side of the bowl. Water will
continue to run into the bowl for a short time after the pedals are released. 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.
CAUTION: 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.
TROUBLE SHOOTING
PROBLEM: Water keeps running into bowl.
CAUSE: The blade in the bottom of the bowl is not closing completely, which in turn
keeps the water control valve partially open. The groove into which the blade seats
when completely closed is clogged with foreign material.
REMEDY- Insert the end of a coat hanger or similar object into the sealing groove and
remove the foreign material. Avoid damaging the rubber seal while cleaning.
PROBLEM: Toilet leaks. There is water on the floor. Specify the problem.
Determine if water is leaking from:
CAUSE: a. Vacuum breaker.
b. The water-control valve.
c. Bowl to mechanism seal. (If this is the problem, the water
would not stay in the bowl.)
d. Closet flange base seal.
REMEDY: a. The vacuum breaker. If the vacuum breaker leaks when
flushing the toilet, replace vacuum breaker.
b. If the vacuum breaker leaks when the toilet is not in operation,
replace the water control valve.
c. Leaks at the bowl to mechanism seal. Remove mechanism
and replace seal,
d. Leaks at closet flange area. Check front and rear closet flange
nuts for tightness. If leak continues remove the toilet, check
the closet flange height. The height should be between ¼“
and 7/16“ above the floor. Adjust closet flange height
accordingly and replace closet flange seal.
G
G - 11
PLUMBING
PROBLEM: Foot pedal operates harder than normal or the blade sticks.
REMEDY: a. Apply a light film of Silicone spray to blade.
b. Check closet bolt tightness. If closet bolts are over tightened,
the mechanism may be distorted.
PROBLEM: Bowl will not hold water; i.e., water leaks from bowl down into the
holding tank.
REMEDY: Using a bent screwdriver or similar object, scrape the groove in
front of the mechanism blade. Generally paper or other foreign
material is lodged in this groove, causing the leak.
CAUTION: Use care not to damage the blade seal. Always make certain that the tool
is under the lip of the seal, not above it.
The tool can easily be made by bending a coat hanger or screwdriver over about 7/8”.
MAINTENANCE
If the bowl-sealing blade does not operate freely after extended use, it may be restored
to its original, smooth operating condition by applying a light film of silicone spray
to the blade. To clean the toilet use Thetford Aqua Bowl or any other high grade,
non-abrasive cleaner. Do not use highly concentrated or high acid content household
cleaners. They may damage the rubber seals.
REMOVAL
1. Shut off water valve behind toilet or main water supply.
2. Disconnect water supply line from toilet. You will probably find a small mirror
very useful.
3. Depress pedal and remove nut located in pedal recess.
4. Reach behind toilet and remove nut on opposite side of base from pedals. In some
situations you may want to remove the plug in top of the seat designed to give
access from above to this nut.
NOTE: Always replace flange seal when toilet has been removed.
Winterizing
Draining Method
Disconnect water supply line at water valve. Completely drain the water supply line
before winter storage.
CAUTION: To avoid damage, when using air pressure to blow water from the
lines, be sure toilet valve is in the open position.
CAUTION: If water is frozen in the toilet, do not attempt to flush until with the
ice thaws.
CAUTION: Never use automotive type antifreeze.
For Thetford service centers: USA 1-800-521-3032
Canada: 1-888-215-5410
G
PLUMBING
G - 12
STORAGE AND WINTERIZING
When storing your motorhome for a short or long period, 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
tank. Also, drain the entire water system, including the water heater and the fresh
water storage tank. Instructions for draining the water system are explained in the
following paragraphs on winterizing.
Twice a year, or after a long storage period, we suggest you take your unit into your
Airstream dealer for a check-up and cleaning of the gas operated appliances.
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), the waste hold-
ing tanks, the water heater and the battery. To completely winterize your motorhome
follow this procedure:
1. Level the motorhome from side to side and front to rear. Open the hot and cold
water valves on the exterior water service, lavatory and wet bath.
2. Turn the water pump switch to the OFF position and/or disconnect city water.
3. Open low point valves for the hot and cold water lines and the fresh water tank drain
valve. On the Rear Bath model they are located inside the rear cargo doors. On the
Mid Bath model the tank drain is located under the galley and the water line drain
valves are under the motorhome in front of the dump valves. One drain valve or plug
is located on the water heater exterior and is accessible through the water heater
access door. Remove this plug and allow water to drain. See drain valves and their
access in this section.
4. Follow winterizing instructions for your toilet in the toilet section of this manual.
5. While the water is draining from the system, depress hand spray thumb button on the
telephone shower head and drain all the water. Unscrew the head on spray unit and
store. Remove, drain, and store the exterior water service hose and shower head.
6. After the water has stopped running from the drain lines, fresh water tank, and water
heater, apply at least 60 lbs. of air pressure at the city water inlet. Be sure the toilet
valve and all drain valves and faucets are open and pump outlet hose is discon-
nected. This can be accomplished at a service station. The goal is to force any
remaining water from the water heater and remove any water that may be trapped
in low areas.
7. Pour a cup of non-toxic antifreeze into the wet bath and galley sink drains to prevent
freezing water in traps.
8. Be sure to open the holding tank valve, and drain and flush the tank thoroughly. (This
is very important, as the frozen sewage could seriously damage the tank.)
9. Remove the house battery from your motorhome and store in a cool dry place where
there is no danger of freezing. It is very important for optimum life of your battery
to check it periodically and to keep it fully charged. This is especially true in winter
months, when the temperature may drop below freezing. If the period of storage
is for 30 days or less, you may turn off the battery disconnect switch rather than
remove the battery. Continue to check and recharge the battery as needed, at least
weekly in severe weather.
10. Remove any items (food, cosmetics, etc.) from the interior that might be damaged
by freezing, or might damage the motorhome if containers break.
Daimler/Chrysler recommends disconnecting the engine battery if the vehicle is stored
for a long duration. Always disconnect the and connect the ground first. If you remove
the battery, follow the same storage tips as explained for the house battery.
G
G - 13
PLUMBING
STORAGE AND WINTERIZING (continued)
For additional winterizing protection, add non-toxic antifreeze (approved for drinking
water systems) to your water lines using the following procedure:
1. Reconnect all lines except the hose to the pump inlet port. Close all drain valves
(See Step 3)
*2. Turn bypass valves to bypass position.
3. 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.
4. Dilute the antifreeze solution in accordance with the manufacturer’s instructions.
5. Open all water faucets.
6. 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 shower
hand spray while holding down in tub.
7. Shut off the pump and close all faucets.
8. Disconnect the hose length from pump inlet fitting and reconnect water system
inlet line.
*The by-pass valves are located behind the galley cabinet lower door on the Rear Bath
model and under the passenger side lounge on the Mid Bath model.
To access the valves on the Mid Bath model, the recessed panel between the lounge
doors must be removed. Snap the caps off the four screws, remove the screws, and
use the finger hole in the panel to slide it out.
Turn the water heater valves to by-pass flow position. To by-pass the water heater
for winterizing, close valves A and C and open valve B (See illustration). For normal
operation open valves A and C and close valve B.
Waterline
open
close
Shut off valve positions
A
B
C
Hot
Cold
G
PLUMBING
G - 14
DRAIN AND WASTE SYSTEM
The drain and waste system of your
motorhome includes either a combina-
tion gray/black waste holding tank (Rear
Bath) or separate grey and Black tanks
(Mid Bath) made from molded plastic.
The tanks enables you to use the toilet,
sink, and wet bath drain for several days
away from disposal facilities. To empty
the tanks, attach the sewer hose by
pressing the bayonet fitting onto the
outlet adapter 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 that it
will drain completely.
The tank on the Rear Bath model has an
electric dump valve with a remote switch.
The switch is located inside the rear cargo
doors on a panel beside the spare tire. The
switch activated an electric solenoid that opens the valve. Push and hold the switch
until the tank is empty. Release the switch to close the valve.
There is a manual override for the electric system for the electric valve located on each
side of the valve. It is flat head screw that is turned clockwise or counter clockwise
according to side you access to open and close the valve. The direction is labeled on
the valve.
The tanks on the Mid Bath model have two manual dump valves located under the
motorhome on the drivers side below the refrigerator.
Watch all connections while dumping and release switch if a leak is noticed.
When Parked and Connected to Sewer Outlet
When you are in a park, and connected to a sewer outlet, keep the 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 TANK AT A TIME WILL
TOILET PAPER AND OTHER SOLIDS COMPLETELY WASH AWAY.
This practice will avoid the accumulation of solids in the 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 drive the motorhome 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.
Draining the tanks as described will protect them from freezing during storage. Use a
winterizing solution designed for RV use after draining tank.
Heated Tanks
The Interstate motorhome has 12-Volt heat pad installed with the gray/black combina-
tion-holding tank on the Rear Bath and gray tank on the Mid bath model. This pad is
controlled by a switch located next to the monitor panel. To conserve battery power,
RV antifreeze may be used to protect the tank. Battery power will last about 6 hours
unless the unit is plugged into a 110-volt shoreline source to operate the converter/
battery charger.
CAUTION: 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.
Dump Valve
Sewer Hose
Storage
Fender
Dump Valve
Manual Override
Flat Head Screw
Tire
Dump
Valve
Switch
Spare
G
G - 15
PLUMBING
Drain Systems Cleaning
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. Picking a deodorizer with lubricating qualities will help ease the slide
valve operation.
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 seals
of your toilet and dump valve. Also, do not use any dish detergent or abrasive cleaners.
All products should be marked approved for ABS drainage systems.
When winterizing the drains, use only recreational vehicle plumbing type antifreeze.
These are sold through your dealer.
H
ELECTRICAL SYSTEMS
H - 1
12-VOLT SYSTEM
The major portion of electrical power in your Airstream is 12-volt. The 12-volt current
powers just about every thing except for the air conditioner and microwave oven. The
refrigerator’s electronic energy selection is also powered by 12 volt.
All 12-volt current comes through the battery system. The battery is installed in two
ways. It is located under the front passenger seat on standard units and or under a dark
plexiglass plate just inside the rear doors on the roadside. The battery is accessible
in the battery box by unbolting the passenger seat on standard units or by removing
the dark plexiglass plate on units with the rear lounge. Power from the battery goes
to a Type 2 thermal breaker and then to the 12-volt distribution panel located in the
converter and then to the rest of the motorhome. Open the brown decorative door on
the front of the converter on the front of the lounge base to access the panel and its
fuses. A 12-volt layout diagram is shown later in this section.
BATTERY DISCONNECT SWITCH
The disconnect switch is used to separate the battery from the 12-volt distribution
panel and converter charging system.
When the switch is turned “use” (on) and the motorhome is plugged into a 110-volt
shoreline, the 12-volt distribution panel will receive power from the converter and the
battery will be charged through the converter charging system.
When the switch is turned to “store” (off) and the motorhome 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 this position.
NOTE: The electric gas shut-off solenoid closes automatically when 12-volt
power is disconnected. It will reopen when power is restored.
POWER CENTER (Converter, 12-Volt Distribution, 110 Volt Distribution)
MagneTec 7355
Manufacturer:
MagneTec
102 North Main Street
Goodland, Indiana 47948
Phone: (800) 443 4859
Fax: (219) 297 2305
The converter/charging 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 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. The converter system is designed to maintain constant output
voltages regardless of the variances that occur in city power systems.
H
H - 2
ELECTRICAL SYSTEMS
12V POWER CIRCUITS
The current in the converter system is 12 volts direct current (12VDC) negative
grounded.
Power sources that supply 12VDC current to the system are House Battery and
Converter. These power sources above are electrically connected to the 12-volt
distribution fuse panel that distributes current to interior branch circuits. The circuits
provide power to operate all 12-volt DC systems in the living area.
The 7300 series power converter is a solid-state electronic power supply and is main-
tenance free. It is so self-sufficient and quiet that you will probably not know it is
working except for the fact that your battery is always charged, and your 12-volt lights
and appliances always work. If any 12-volt appliance fails to operate, first check your
recreational vehicles 12-volt distribution fuse block located behind the decorative front
door in the front right hand corner of the converter and inspect all fuses. If a fuse
is opened or blown replace it with the same size fuse (never install a larger use). If
the fuse opens again, have an electrician or certified RV technician locate the circuit
trouble. Replace blown fuses with Littefuse type 257 fuses only.
If the 7300 series power converter is not working, first confirm the RV supply or shore-
line cord is plugged into a live circuit. Then check all the 120-volt breakers in your
RV distribution panel to make sure they are on. If the breaker is tripped, follow the
instructions to reset the breakers. If the breaker trips again, consult an electrician or
certified RV technician.
CONVERTER OPERATION
The MagneTec 7300 series electronic power converter is designed to supply the
nominal 12-volt filtered D.C. power for all 12 volt operated devices encountered in RV
service. Although the converter is an excellent battery charger, the converter does not
require a battery to be connected to it for proper operation.
CAUTION: When installing a battery (s) always observe polarity. Connecting a bat-
tery reverse polarity will blow the power converter main fuses located on the 12 volt
D.C. distribution fuse block.
120 VOLT AC PANEL BOARD
The AC panel board section of the series 7300 is located behind the decorative door
in the upper left-hand corner. This panel contains the 120 Vac branch circuit breakers
for your RV. One of the breakers controls the 120 volt power to the 12 volt converter
section located in the lower half of the 7300. This breaker may also control another
branch circuit. Check the label next to each breaker for what each branch circuit
breaker controls.
The 120 volt circuits may be turned “on” my putting their breaker handle up to the on
position or “off” by flipping the handle down to the off position. To reset the tripped
breaker move handle to off then on.
H
ELECTRICAL SYSTEMS
H - 3
CONVERTER COOLING SYSTEM
The 7300 electronic fan cooling system is the key to long life and trouble-free opera-
tion. The fan is never on more than required to cool electronic components in the
converter. You may never hear the fan operate.
Converter
The converter transforms 120-volt alternating current (AC) into 12-volt direct current
(DC). This provides power to charge the motorhome battery and to operate the 12-volt
systems, and appliances.
The converter is energized only when the motorhome is hooked up to 120-volt
city power.
Converter Testing
A. Confirm 120 volt power is going into converter.
B. Disconnect the 12+ wire from the master switch.
C. Using a voltmeter check voltage output between heavy positive and negative
wires coming out of converter.
D. The voltage must be within 13.8 and 14.0 volts. (The meter of the tester should be
calibrated periodically.)
E. If converter is not within these voltages, have it serviced by a qualified technician
or replace it.
H
H - 4
ELECTRICAL SYSTEMS
12-Volt Operation
The only thing you have to do is make sure the house
battery does not run down. In normal usage, there isn’t
any problem, since you would normally be plugged into
a 110 volt shoreline at night or when camping. When
you’re plugged into city power or running the generator,
with the battery disconnect turned to “USE”, the con-
verter charges the battery and carries much of the load.
Some nights you may not find a place to plug into
city power. No problem; you can comfortably run your
lights, water pump, and vents in a normal fashion with-
out depleting the battery.
If you are not plugged into city power, and you plan
on staying longer than a day or two, you’ll want to
conserve your battery by using as few lights and appli-
ances as possible. Check the monitor system regularly.
If you notice the lights becoming dim, it’s much easier
on the battery if you go ahead and start the generator
before the battery run down. Remember the generator
starts off the house battery. Do not let the house bat-
tery become too depleted to start the generator.
The engine battery and house battery are isolated from
each other, preventing the house 12-volt system from
drawing down the engine battery. In the event the en-
gine battery is depleted, Daimler/Chrysler recom-
mends using a trickle charge only when charging
the battery. When jumping the engine battery do
not use a power boost.
Interior Lights
Many interior lights have been included in your
motorhome to give you almost infinite variable light
intensity.
Rear Bath
Two light switches are located just inside the side cargo
door. One is the patio light switch. The other switch
controls the ceiling light, reading lights and fluorescent
lights. The fluorescent and reading lights are individu-
ally switched also, however they will not work unless
the main switch inside the cargo doors is on.
A switch for the wet bath light is just outside its door.
The wardrobe light has its own switch on the light
base.
Mid Bath
Three light switches on the galley end panel inside
the sliding door operate the indirect, patio, and ceil-
ing lights. The reading lights above the lounges are
individually switched.
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.
Galley Area Switches
These features are located above the galley on the
Rear bath and inside the cabinet above the refrigerator
on the Mid Bath Model
The water heater switch supplies power to the igniter
and gas valve. When turned on it will flash red until flame
is sensed, then the red light will be extinguished.
The heating pad switch provides power to the heat the
gray/black combination tank.
The generator switch starts the generator. The red light
remains lit while the generator is running
H
ELECTRICAL SYSTEMS
H - 5
MONITOR PANEL
Micropulse Systems Monitor
CATCON PRODUCTS INC.
817-921-2188
techsupport@catconproducts.com
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.
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.
The monitor system has been calibrated at the fac-
tory 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.
On the Rear Bath model the Interstate has one Gray/
Black water combination holding tank, the black sensor
will register this tank. The gray water light will remain
blank. On the Mid bath there are two tanks so each will
register its own level.
OPERATION INSTRUCTIONS
This example shows the monitor reporting the follow-
ing:
Fresh Water = 1/8 to Empty
Black Water = Empty to 5/8
LP Gas = 1/4
Battery = Empty to 5/8
On all diagrams the Letters R=Red, Y=Yellow,
G=Green, Blank=no LED lit.
NORMAL OPERATION
The MicroPulse Monitor will display the condition of
each system at all times. The tri-color LED beside the
system will indicate the condition of the system using
the following color code.
Fresh Water, LP Gas, Battery are as follows:
Green LED = 3/8 to Full
Yellow LED = 1/4
Red LED = 1/8 to Empty
Gray Water, Black Water are as follows:
Green LED = Empty to 5/8
Yellow LED = 3/4
Red LED = 7/8 to Full
TO OBTAIN EXACT READING
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.
To obtain an exact reading of an individual system press
and 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.
MONITOR DISPLAY
FRESH WATER
GRAY WATER 1
BLACK WATER
LP GAS
BATTERY
R
G
Y
G
H
H - 6
ELECTRICAL SYSTEMS
Interstate 12-Volt circuit diagram
CIRCUIT 1
REFRIGERATOR (MID BATH)
UNUSED (REAR BATH)
CIRCUIT 2
SUB WOOFER (MID BATH)
UNUSED (REAR BATH)
CIRCUIT 3, 20 AMP, PINK
(2) CURBSIDE READING LIGHTS
FURNACE
CLOSET LIGHT
COOK TOP IGNITION
CURBSIDE LOUNGE FLUORESCENT LIGHT
GALLEY LOCKER FLUORESCENT LIGHT
SEWER LIGHT
(1) GALLEY CEILING FLUORESCENT LIGHT
CIRCUIT 4, 20 AMP, BROWN
SUB WOOFER (REAR BATH)
TV JACK/BOOSTER
EXTERIOR TV JACK
CIRCUIT 5, 15 AMP, BLACK
(2) 1-BULB AISLE LIGHTS
CIRCUIT 6, 20 AMP. PURPLE
SHOWER LIGHT
FANTASTIC FAN
RADIO
GALLEY FLUORESCENT CEILING LIGHT
CIRCUIT 7, 20 AMP, BLUE
WATER HEATER IGNITION
(2) ROADSIDE HALOGEN READING LIGHTS
(1) LOUNGE FLUORESCENT LIGHT
WATER PUMP
CIRCUIT 8, 10 AMP, RED
WASTE TANK REMOTE DUMP VALVE (REAR BATH)
HOLDING TANK HEATING PAD
CIRCUIT 9, 20 Amp, YELLOW
L.P. AUTO FILL
(7) CEILING LIGHTS
PATIO LIGHT
30 30
20 20
20
20
20
20
20
20
20
Cir. # 1 - Unused
Cir. # 2 - Unused
Cir. # 3 - Black
Cir. # 9 - Yellow
Cir. # 8 - Red
Cir. # 7 - Blue
Cir. # 6 - Purple
Cir. # 5 - Brown
Cir. # 4 - Pink
Red Battery +
White Battery -
12 Volt Fuse Panel
H
ELECTRICAL SYSTEMS
H - 7
TV ANTENNA
Manufacturer:
Winegard Company
3000 Kirkwood Street
Burlington, Iowa 52601
Phone: 800-843-4741
Raising Antenna to Operating Position
Turn elevating crank in “UP” direction until some resistance
to turning is noted. Antenna is now in operating position.
Check to make sure switch on front TV jack is on.
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.
Lowering Antenna to Travel Position
Rotate antenna until pointer on directional handle aligns
with pointer on ceiling plate.
CAUTION: Antenna must be in “down” position while
traveling to prevent damage.
Turn elevating crank in the “Down” direction until resistance
is noted. Antenna is now locked in travel position.
Checking Operation
1. Tune TV receiver to nearest station and rotate antenna
for best picture and sound.
2. Turn off switch on power supply. Picture on TV receiver
should be considerably degraded with the power off.
DO’S
1. Do check parking location for obstructions before
raising antenna.
2. Do carefully raise, lower and rotate - if difficult, check
for cause.
3. Do rotate slowly when selecting station and check fine-
tuning on TV set to make sure it is properly adjusted.
4. Do lower antenna before moving vehicle.
DON’TS
1. Don’t force elevating crank up or down. Check for
cause of trouble.
2. Don’t rotate directional handle hard against stops.
3. Don’t travel with lift in up position.
4. Don’t leave lift part way up or down.
5. Don’t apply sealing compound or paint over top of
base plate or anywhere on lift.
Raising Antenna
Rotating Antenna
Lowering Antenna
H
H - 8
ELECTRICAL SYSTEMS
Maintenance
Lubrication
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.
Lubricating Rotating Gear Housing
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.
Elevate antenna and remove setscrew from rotating gear housing as shown. Spray lu-
bricant into hole and around edges of gear housing. Rotate gear housing until lubricant
coats bearing surfaces and antenna rotates freely.
Elevating Shaft Worm Gear Assembly Replacement Procedure
NOTE: It is not necessary to remove the rotating gear housing (11) from the base plate
(14) or remove the antenna from the roof to replace the shaft and gear assembly.
STEP 1: Lower antenna to travel position. Loosen set -screw on elevating crank (23);
remove crank, spring (20), and directional handle (19).
STEP 2: Remove top retaining ring (5) from top pin (4) holding top elevating tube in
rotating gear housing and remove pin.
STEP 3: Remove plug from top of rotating gear housing elevating gear (8) and remove
elevating shaft assembly (10).
STEP 4: Cut new shaft to same length as one removed.
STEP 5: Lubricate worm gear on new elevating shaft assembly with spray silicone
lubricant, make sure wave washer, flat washer and quad ring are on lower bearing and
insert assembly in housing.
STEP 6: Install plastic plug in top of housing, re-engage elevating gear in worm gear,
replace pin and retaining ring.
STEP 7: Replace directional handle, spring and elevating crank. Make sure setscrew
contacts flat on shaft before tightening.
See antenna owners manual for drawings and further instructions.
H
ELECTRICAL SYSTEMS
H - 9
Solar Panel Pre-Wire
The Interstate Motorhome is pre-wired for the addition of a solar panel.
Locations for solar panel pre-wire:
* Charge Controller hook up - four 10 gauge wires, red, black, green, yellow
are located behind tank monitor panel on the galley roof locker.
* Rooftop Solar Panel pre-wire - two 10 gauge wires, green (-), yellow (+) are
located under roadside sofa to the left of the furnace.
* Charge Controller to Battery pre-pre-wire - two 10 gauge wires, red (+), black
(-) are located under roadside at the battery disconnect solenoid forward
end of the roadside sofa.
The yellow and green wires start at the aft side of the roadside sofa location and end
at the monitor panel. The red and black wires start at the monitor panel and end at the
forward end of the roadside sofa near the Battery Disconnect switch
Radio
The radio system is designed to work on the vehicle ignition system during travel or the
12 volt coach system while camping. Instructions for the radio system are supplied in
the owner’s packet.
Standard Package - The radio and the two rear speakers are supplied and installed by
Airstream. The dash speakers are supplied and installed by the chassis manufacturer.
Upgrade package - Airstream removes the standard chassis dash speakers and re-
places them with upgraded speakers and adds a powered subwoofer with the Audio
Upgrade option.
NOTE: The radio subwoofer speaker in the Audio Upgrade package is powered by the
12 volt coach system only and will not operate unless the Battery Disconnect switch
is on.
The radio and speakers supplied and installed by Airstream are warranted by
Airstream’s supplier and must be returned to Airstream’s supplier or an authorized
repair and service center if repairs are needed under warranty. Please contact your
dealer or Airstream Customer Service for warranty information if the radio system
requires warranty service. We may be able to direct you to a local service point for
repairs.
The dash speakers supplied by the chassis manufacturer are serviced and warranted
by the chassis authorized service locations.
H
H - 10
ELECTRICAL SYSTEMS
Entertainment System
Pictured below are several outlets located inside the Entertainment Cabinet on the
Rear Bath and inside the roof locker on the Mid Bath. Their function is listed below.
A. INTERIOR 110-VOLT OUTLET provides power to 110-volt appliances such as
televisions, electronic phones, and other devices as you may choose.
B. TV OUTLET W/AMPLIFIER AND 12 VOLT OUTLET
Provides an inlet for a television.
To operate on the amplified antenna slide the switch located on the faceplate until the
small red light beside the switch comes on. The switch activated the booster for the
TV antenna on the roof.
To operate on the TV cable system, turn the booster off. Run a cable TV provider coax
to the exterior cable TV/Satellite inlet.
The 12-volt power outlet provides 12-V power to appliances such as a 12 volt
powered TV.
Units equipped with the optional Audio Upgrade package has an IPod connection
located in the glove box.
iPod Connection and Usage Instructions
Connecting the iPod to the adapter connection cable:
Make sure to turn off the power on the dash receiver or turn off the vehicle’s
ignition switch before connecting or disconnecting the iPod.
Connect the iPod connection cable that is found in the glove box to the dock
connector on the iPod.
Insert the connection cable until you hear a clicking sound. The power supply to
the iPod is now linked to the dash receiver.
While the iPod is connected to this adapter, its battery is charged when the dash
receiver is turned on.
Setting the dash receiver:
Before using the iPod, make sure to select the iPod as the external input setting
by toggling the source (SRC) button found on the lower left hand side of the dash
receiver to the iPod setting.
For details, see the PSM (Preferred Setting Mode) setting selection (PG. 17) in the
dash receiver’s instruction manual.
Starting playback:
Turn on the power of the dash receiver and toggle the source (SRC) button to
iPod.
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
ABCD
H
ELECTRICAL SYSTEMS
H - 11
The iPod starts playback from where it has been previously paused.
Note: While the iPod is connected to the dash receiver via the adapter connection
cable, all the buttons on the iPod do not function.
The text information of the tracks, categories, etc. is displayed on the receiver
when operating the iPod through this adapter connection cable.
Caution: “Make sure to turn off this unit or turn off the vehicle’s ignition
switch before connecting or disconnecting the iPod or D. Player” If
the ignitions switch is not turn off when removing the ipod you can erase all the
information on the ipod memory and/or damage the ipod.
Checking the type of your iPod:
You can control the following type of iPods through this adapter connection
cable:
Note: The iPod Shuffle is not controllable.
Controllable iPod Software Version
iPod with dock connector (3rd Generation) iPod software version 2.3
iPod with Click Wheel (4th Generation) iPod software version 3.1
iPod mini iPod mini software version 1.4
iPod photo (5th Generation) iPod photo software version 1.2
iPod nano iPod nano software version 1.0
•
•
•
•
•
C. SATELLITE ANTENNA WIRING AND HOOK UP
The Interstate Motorhome has a faceplate with two coax cable hook-ups. It is located
in the Entertainment Center Cabinet on the Rear Bath Model and in the Roof Locker
on the Mid Bath model. 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:
1. Remove the jumper wire from the coax faceplate.
2. Hook a portable dish into the Cable TV receptacle on the exterior of the mo-
torhome. This feeds the dish signal to the input side of the faceplate.
3. Install the satellite receiver input and output into the dual coax faceplate.
To return to a cable TV system, remove the satellite receiver from the faceplate and
reinstall the jumper cable. Hook a cable feed to the exterior inlet.
C. TELEPHONE JACK provides an outlet to operate a landline telephone or hook up
to the internet for your computer.
The doors on the entertainment center on the Rear Bath model are constructed of
Plexiglas. The door may be lightly dusted (not wiped) with a soft, clean cloth. Then the
surface can be wiped carefully with a soft, wet cloth or chamois. The cloth or chamois
should be kept free of dirt and grit with frequent rinsing.
Wash with plenty of non-abrasive soap or detergent and water. A soft grit free cloth,
sponge, or chamois may be used, but only as a means of carrying water to the door.
Do not use hard, rough cloths that will scratch the door. Dry with damp chamois.
CAUTION Do use solvents or glass cleaners that may damage the doors finish.
H
H - 12
ELECTRICAL SYSTEMS
110-VOLT POWER
The 110-volt system works very much like your home. When you’re plugged into city
power, or start your generator, power is supplied to the 110-volt circuit breakers. The
circuit breakers are located on the converter, accessed by opening the brown con-
verter door.
If a circuit is over loaded or a short circuit occurs, the breakers will “kick” out. To
reactivate the circuits, turn the breaker to off, reduce the load or correct the short, and
turn the breaker back to on.
As mentioned above, power can be supplied to the 110-volt system from two sources.
The shoreline power inlet and the generator. These two separate feed comes together
in the Automatic Switch over Box located under the roadside lounge.
110-VOLT AUTOMATIC SWITCH OVER BOX
The switch over box automatically switches the feed to the breakers from shoreline
to generator as your choose which way to power the motorhome. You simply decide
whether to plug into a 110-volt source or start the generator and the box will do the
rest. If the generator is accidentally started, the box will sense the generator, points will
switch cutting the shoreline connection, and establishing the generator connection.
This protects the system from a possible overload.
Generator/City Power
A. To 110-volt circuit breakers
B. To generator circuit
C. To city power
1. When plugged into city power, the
current path is from C to A.
2. When you start your generator and unplug from city power, the points switch and
the power flow is from B to A.
3. If you’re plugged into city and you start the generator, city power has the priority,
so the current flow is C to A.
AB
C
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ELECTRICAL SYSTEMS
H - 13
110-Volt Circuit Diagram
MID BATH REAR BATH
Circuit 1. 30 Amp, Main Circuit 1. 30 Amp, Main
Circuit 2. 20 Amp, AES Circuit 2. 20 Amp, Converter
Circuit 3. 20 Amp , TV, Convertor Circuit 3. 20 Amp , Refer, Galley, Outside
Receptacles
Circuit 4, 20 Amp, Unused Circuit 4, 20 Amp, AES
Circuit 5, 20 Amp, Refer, Galley, Circuit 5, 20 Amp, Receptacles
Outside Receptacles
There are five 110-volt breakers.
Their functions are:
Main: All 110 voltage flows through this breaker to the other four breakers. Shutting off
this breaker will shut down all 110 systems
Converter: This circuit supplies power to operate the converter and its functions.
GFI One of the breakers is a GFI (Ground Fault Interrupter) breaker. The intent of this
breaker is to sense any loss of ground before a harmful shock could occur, and kick
the breaker out. These sensitive breakers are installed in the circuit feeding the outside
receptacle, and galley area. These are the areas where the use of water or the wet
ground could put a person in danger of shock. Since the GFI breaker is so sensitive, it
is not unusual to have it kick out for no apparent reason. To reset a GFI you must first
push the lever down slightly before resetting the breaker. This breaker supplies power
to the exterior 110-volt outlet and the galley outlet.
AES: This breaker supplies power to the Automatic Energy Selector Switch. The
microwave and roof air conditioner are both wired into this switch. Both appliances
cannot be operated at the same time on the circuit. The AES prioritizes the power to
the roof AC. If the microwave is used, the switch will cut power to the roof AC and
supply power to the microwave. Once the microwave is turned off, power is restored
to the AC.
Receptacles: This breaker supplies power to the refrigerator and entertainment center
outlets.
30 20
20 20
20
TEST
1 2 345
30 20
20
20
20
1234 5
TEST
H
H - 14
ELECTRICAL SYSTEMS
GENERATOR
IMPORTANT NOTE: MAKE SURE TO READ AND UNDERSTAND THE GENERATOR
OWNER’S MANUAL BEFORE OPERATING THE GENERATOR. Observe all operating
instructions and warnings as well as all recommended maintenance schedules and
procedures.
The onboard generator makes your RV fully self-contained. It allows you access
to 120 volts when there is no shore power available, but keep in mind that carbon
monoxide is deadly! NEVER sleep in the RV with the generator running! Before you
start and use the generator inspect the exhaust system. Do not use it if the exhaust
system is damaged. Test the carbon monoxide detector every time you use the RV.
Know what the symptoms of carbon monoxide poisoning are:
· Dizziness
· Vomiting
· Nausea
· Muscular twitching
· Intense headache
· Throbbing in the temples
· Weakness and sleepiness
· Inability to think coherently
If you or anyone else experience any of these symptoms get to fresh air immedi-
ately. Shut the generator down and do not operate it until it has been inspected and
repaired by a professional. If the symptoms persist seek medical attention.
DANGER: Carbon Monoxide is poisonous and can cause unconscious-
ness and death. Follow all instructions in this section as well as the ones outlined in
the generator operator’s manual.
1. DO NOT operate the generator while sleeping. You would not be aware of exhaust
entering the recreation vehicle, or alert to symptoms of carbon monoxide poisoning.
2. Never store anything in generator compartment. Always keep compartment clean
and dry.
3. DO NOT operate the generator in an enclosed building or in a partly enclosed area
such as a garage.
4. Review the safety precautions for fuel and exhaust fumes elsewhere in this
manual.
5. DO NOT operate the generator when the recreation vehicle is parked in high grass
or brush. Heat from the exhaust could cause a fire in dry conditions.
6. Never operate your chassis or generator engine, or the engine of any vehicle,
longer than necessary when the vehicle is parked.
7. DO NOT simultaneously operate generator and a ventilator which could result in
the entry of exhaust gas. When exhaust ventilators are used, we recommend that
a window on the opposite side of the unit “upwind” of exhaust gases be opened to
provide cross ventilation.
8. When parked, orient the vehicle so that the wind will carry the exhaust away from
the vehicle. DO NOT open nearby windows, ventilators, or doors into the passenger
compartment, particularly those which can be “down wind”, even part of the time.
9. DO NOT operate the generator when parked in close proximity to vegetation,
snow, buildings, vehicles, or any other object could deflect the exhaust under or into
the vehicle.
10. DO NOT touch the generator when running, or immediately after shutting off.
Heat from the generator can cause burns. Allow the generator to cool before at-
tempting maintenance or service.
I
APPLIANCES
I - 1
WARNING: Most LP gas appliances used in recreational vehicles are
vented to the outside of the vehicle. Check the exterior areas of your unit for
clearance in these areas. Turn all gas operated appliances off when parked close
to a gasoline pump, it is possible that gasoline fumes could enter these types of
appliances and ignite from the burner flame or automatic igniters, CAUSING A
FIRE OR AN EXPLOSION.
If any appliance manuals have not been provided with your trailer, contact your dealer,
the respective appliance manufacturer or Airstream Customer Service. A manual will
be provided to you.
Maintenance: Follow the instructions and warnings noted in the appliances and
equipment owner’s manuals as well as the ones listed below:
Annual maintenance should be conducted on propane gas appliances and
equipment by an authorized dealer or repair facility.
Insects can build nests in the burners of various appliances and equipment. The
burner and burner orifice of the propane gas appliances and equipment should
be cleaned out by an authorized dealer or repair facility anytime circumstances or
conditions warrant., but no less than on an annual basis.
AIR CONDITIONER
Manufacturer:
Dometic Sales Corporation
2320 Industrial Parkway
P.O. Box 490
Elkhart, IN 46515
Phone: 219-295-5228
Note: Review the air conditioning literature supplied in your Owner’s Packet before
proceeding.
•
•
The roof air conditioner used on Airstream motorhomes is one of the most popular
on the market today. In your Owner’s Packet is a set of literature covering all operat-
ing and maintenance instructions. If the literature is misplaced, please contact the air
conditioner manufacturer or your Airstream dealer for replacement. A detailed service
guide may be ordered from the manufacturer.
Operating the microwave and an air conditioner at the same time will put your electrical
system at the edge of maximum draw. If the air conditioner goes into a “start up” cycle,
while the microwave is operating, the additional current will probably cause a circuit
breaker to kick out. Because of the amount of power drawn by the air conditioner, it
is not possible to operate the AC and the microwave at the same time. The Intellitec
Automatic Energy Selector Switch explained in the previous section controls this func-
tion. The AES prioritizes the power to the roof AC. If the microwave is used, the switch
will cut power to the roof AC and supply power to the microwave. Once the microwave
is turned off, power is restored to the AC.
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
probably not function if the current drops below 105 volts. Low voltage is usually asso-
ciated with older or poorly maintained motorhome parks, but many people have found
their homes, built only twenty or thirty years ago, may not be capable of operating the
air conditioner on some receptacles. Parking your motorhome so the power cord can
be plugged into a receptacle close to the fuse or circuit breaker box can alleviate the
problem. Avoid 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.
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 comfortable temperature than it is to lower the temperature after the interior of the
motorhome is already hot.
I
I - 2
APPLIANCES
FURNACE
WARNING: Most LP gas appliances used in recreational vehicles are
vented to the outside of the vehicle. Check the exterior areas of your unit for
clearance in these areas. Turn all gas operated appliances off when parked close
to a gasoline pump, it is possible that gasoline fumes could enter these types of
appliances and ignite from the burner flame or automatic igniters, CAUSING A
FIRE OR AN EXPLOSION.
Manufacturer:
Hydro Flame Corporation
1874 South Pioneer Road
Salt Lake City, UT 84104
Phone: 801-972-4621
The manufacturer of the furnace in your motorhome has been well known in the RV
industry for many years. The furnace burns LP gas, and is powered by 12-volt cur-
rent from the battery when there is no shoreline hookup or power converter when
plugged into 120-volt shoreline. 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.
WARNING: Carefully read all the manufacturer’s instructions prior to
operating. NEVER store flammable material next to the furnace or around its
exhaust vent on the side of the motorhome. Before starting furnace, check and
clear all obstructions from vent area.
If warranty service is required use only a service location recommended by the furnace
manufacturer or your Airstream dealer.
I
APPLIANCES
I - 3
REFRIGERATOR
WARNING: Most LP gas appliances used in recreational vehicles are
vented to the outside of the vehicle. Check the exterior areas of your unit for
clearance in these areas. Turn all gas operated appliances off when parked close
to a gasoline pump, it is possible that gasoline fumes could enter these types of
appliances and ignite from the burner flame or automatic igniters, CAUSING A
FIRE OR AN EXPLOSION.
Manufacturer:
Dometic Sales Corporation 2320
Industrial Parkway P.O. Box 490
Elkhart, Indiana 46514
Phone: 219-295-5228
Review all Dometic Literature supplied in your Owner’s Packet or stored in the refrig-
erator prior to operating.
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 the freezer section) and is exposed to a circulating flow of hydrogen gas, which
causes the ammonia to evaporate, creating a cold condition in the freezer.
The tubing in the evaporator section is specifically sloped to provide a continuous
movement of liquid ammonia, flowing downward by gravity, through this section. If the
refrigerator is operated out-of-level when the vehicle is not moving, liquid ammonia
will accumulate in portions 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).
When the vehicle is moving the leveling is not critical, as the rolling and pitching move-
ment of the vehicle will pass to either side of level, keeping the liquid ammonia from
accumulating in the evaporator tubing.
OPERATION
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; to evaporate the ammonia is being provided by an LP
Gas burner.
I
I - 4
APPLIANCES
RANGE
Smev series 8002
People using gas ranges in their home will find little difference in the operation of
the range in a recreation vehicle. 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.
WARNING: The operation manual for the range contains specialized
information, warnings and cautions that if not followed exactly, may result in a
fire or explosion causing property damage, personal injury, or death. The manual
should be reviewed prior to operating the appliance. If this manual has not been
provided with your motorhome, contact the manufacturer listed at the top of the
page or Airstream Customer Service to obtain it.
MICROWAVE OVEN
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 problem please contact the appropriate
manufacturer.
Dometic Sales Corporation
2320 Industrial Parkway
P.O. Box 490
Elkhart, IN 46515
219-295-5228
I
APPLIANCES
I - 5
WATER HEATER
WARNING: Most LP gas appliances used in recreational vehicles are
vented to the outside of the vehicle. Check the exterior areas of your unit for
clearance in these areas. Turn all gas operated appliances off when parked close
to a gasoline pump, it is possible that gasoline fumes could enter these types of
appliances and ignite from the burner flame or automatic igniters, CAUSING A
FIRE OR AN EXPLOSION.
Manufacturer:
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 pro-
ceeding,
CAUTION: Hydrogen gas can be produced 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 sev-
eral 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.
Water Heater Draining
All models have a drain plug or petcock on the water heater. Access is from the exte-
rior. The plug or valve is usually located in the lower left corner, viewed as you face the
exterior of the water heater.
SAFETY
If your water system is full and cold and the water heater is ignited, the system can
produce 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 expansion 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.
For fun, watch the sequence of events your family goes through when you park the
motorhome and ignite the water heater. More than likely, someone will run water and
relieve the pressure without even realizing it.
I
I - 6
APPLIANCES
HIGH VOLUME ROOF VENT
Manufacturer:
FAN-TASTIC VENT CORP.
2083 S. Almont Ave.
Imlay City, MI 48444
1-810 724 3818
1-800 521 0298
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.
OPERATING INSTRUCTIONS:
1. Rotate 3-speed switch to desired position, 0-off, 1, 2, and 3. The 3-speed switch
must be set at 1, 2 or 3 to activate appliance.
2. Rotate thermostat knob toward 40° (cooler) until dome begins operating.
3. To determine desired temperature setting:
a. Use the wall thermometer on furnace thermostat, or any interior temperature
indicator.
b. Operate fan until interior comfort level is achieved. Rotate thermostat knob
toward 110' symbol on label until dome begins closing. You now have the location
for normal setting.
The thermostat sensor is calibrated approximately 4°. This minimizes rapid recycling
of the unit, once desired temperature level is achieved.
4. The rain sensor built into your fan will prevent excessive rain from entering coach
through the open dome. Maintain a setting above (to the right of) "rain override"
zone and the dome will close when the sensor becomes wet.
CAUTION: Do not leave coach unattended with thermostat knob set in the
“rain override” zone.
5. A rain sensor override is built into this system so you can operate your fan during
light to moderate rains. When sensor is wet, rotate fan thermostat knob to cool-
est position to override sensor. Dome will open and fan motor will start. When
sensor has completely dried, rotate thermostat knob back to desired setting for
automatic operation.
6. To close dome in extremely hot conditions, rotate thermostat knob right, past 110º
symbol to off. Dome will come down.
7. Always allow dome to completely cycle up and down. If dome “hangs up”
in partially open/close position, rotate thermostat knob to extreme right and
then left position allowing complete cycles down and up. Now reset to original
comfort level.
8. When vehicle is in storage, rotate thermostat knob to right (off), after dome closes,
turn 3 speed switch to “O” (off).
CLEANING INSTRUCTIONS:
1) Turn fan motor OFF.
2) Remove 8 painted flat head Philips screws around perimeter of screen insert only.
3) Clean screen with soap & water solution and reinstall.
J
SPECIFICATIONS
J - 1
Coach
NOTE: The weights and measurements in this manual are derived from the best
information available at time of this manuals publishing. Please refer to the
weight information label placed in your unit and your chassis Owner’s Manual for
weights specific to your RV.
DIMENSIONS
Exterior Height with Air Conditioner 9 ft.
Interior Head Room 6’ 1”
Interior Floor Width 68”
Exterior Length 22 ft.
Exterior Width 7’ 1” at running boards
Gross Vehicle Weight Rating (GVWR) is the maximum permissible weight of the
motorhome.
Unit Base Weight (UBW) is the dry weight of the base unit with the bedroom group/full
fuel and w/o options or fluids.
Net Carrying Capacity (NCC) is equal to GVWR minus UBW.
Gross Combination Weight Rating (GCWR) means the maximum allowable loaded
weight of this motorhome and any towed trailer or towed vehicle.
Sleeping Capacity Weight Rating (SCWR) is the manufacturer’s designated number of
sleeping positions multiplied by 154 pounds (70 kilograms).
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
CAPACITIES
Coach
Rear Bath Mid-Bath
LP Tank 23 lbs. 23 lbs.
Fresh Water Tank 30 gal. 26.5
Holding Tank (Combo) 31 gal. N/A
Grey Tank N/A 18 gal.
Black Tank N/A 20 gal.
*Seating Capacity 6 6
Seating Capacity (lbs.) 924 924
Sleeping Capacity 2 2
Sleeping Capacity (lbs.) 308 308
Fuel Tank (gal.) 26 26
* Dinette option reduces seating capacity to 5 with 770 lbs.
Chassis, 2500 Daimler Chrysler
Rear bath Mid-Bath
GVWR (lbs.) 8,550 8,550
GCWR (lbs.) 13,550 13,550
GTW (lbs.) 5,000 5,000
TWR (lbs.) 500 500
NCC (lbs.) 2,065 1,810
UBW (lbs.) 6,485 6,740
J
J - 2
SPECIFICATIONS
CHASSIS (continued)
Gross Axle Weight Rating (GAWR) is a maximum permissible weight on an axle.
Gross Trailer Weight (GTW) is a maximum permissible trailer weight to be towed.
Trailer Tongue Weight Rating (TWR) is the maximum permissible weight of the
trailer tongue.
NOTE: 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 Motorhome Weight Information tag in your vehicle. The UBW and NCC
weights are for the base unit with no options and fluids except for fuel on motorhomes.
The UVW and CCC on the Motorhome Weight Information tag are weights for the
individual vehicle as built with its options and certain water capacities.
WARNING: The towing vehicle’s braking system is rated for opera-
tion at GVWR (GROSS VEHICLE WEIGHT RATING), NOT at the GCWR (GROSS
COMBINED WEIGHT RATING). A separate functioning brake system is required
for any towed vehicles or trailers weighing more than 1000 lbs. (450 kg) when
fully loaded. NEVER exceed the GVWR (GROSS VEHICLE WEIGHT RATING), or
the GAWR (GROSS AXLE WEIGHT RATING) specified on a motorhome certifica-
tion label.
WARNING: Do not exceed the Gross Axle Weight Ratings, the Gross
Vehicle Weight Rating , or the Gross Combined Weight Rating when loading your
vehicle and/or towing a trailer. Failure to heed any part of this warning could
result in loss of control of the motorhome and towed vehicle or trailer and may
cause an accident and serious injury.
WARNING: READ AND FOLLOW ALL WARNINGS IN THE FUEL
SECTION OF YOUR SPRINTER’S OPERATOR’S MANUAL BEFORE FUELING
YOUR VEHICLE.
WARNING: NEVER exceed the weight ratings of trailer hitch installed
on a motorhome. Failure to heed any part of this warning could result in loss of
control of the motorhome and towed vehicle or trailer and may cause an accident,
serious and/or fatal injury. For specified towed vehicle braking requirements,
consult the chassis owner’s manual that comes with this vehicle.
INDEX
Air Conditioner .........................................................I-1
Alignment ............................................................... C-3
Antenna ........................................................ H-7, H-11
Appliances ............................................................... I-1
Bathroom .................................................................F-1
Battery Disconnect ................................................. H-1
Bottled Gas ............................................................ G-1
Breaker Panel, 110-Volt ........................................ H-13
Cab Seats ............................................................... B-2
Cabinets .......................................................... B-2, F-1
Camping ................................................................. D-1
Capacities ................................................................ J-1
Carbon Monoxide Alarm .................................A-7, D-4
Caution ...................................................... Introduction
Chassis, Sprinter Van ...................................... C-1, J-1
Circuit Breakers .................................................... H-13
City Water Hook-Up ....................................... G-4, G-6
Cleaning ..................................................................F-1
Cleaning, Exterior ....................................................E-1
Component Identification ....................................... C-1
Condensation ........................................................ D-9
Control Panel ......................................................... H-5
Counter Areas .........................................................F-1
Dimensions .............................................................. J-1
Dinette .....................................................................F-1
Drain Valves .................................................... G-4, G-9
Driving .................................................................... B-1
Electrical System .................................................... H-1
Entertainment Center ........................................... H-10
Extended Stay ........................................................ D-8
Exterior ....................................................................E-1
Exterior Shower ...................................................... G-6
Faucets ................................................................... G-7
Fabrics, Cleaning .....................................................F-2
Flooring ...................................................................F-1
Furnace ....................................................................I-2
Fuses ...................................................................... H-6
Gas, LP ................................................................... G-1
Generator ........................................... H-4, H-12, H-14
Ground Fault Interrupter ....................................... H-12
GVWR .............................................................. B-1, J-1
GCWR ............................................................ B-5, J-1
Hitch Load ....................................................... B-6, J-2
Holding Tanks ................................D-7, G-9, G-12, J-1
Humidity ................................................................. D-8
Inflation Pressure .................................................... C-3
Interior .....................................................................F-1
Leveling ........................................................ C-10, D-8
Lights, Interior ........................................................ H-6
Loading ................................................................. H-4
Lounge ....................................................................F-1
LP Gas Detector ..................................................... D-6
LPG System ........................................................... G-1
Maintenance Schedule ............................................A-6
Microwave Ovens ......................................H-1, I-1, J-4
Mold ..................................................................... D-10
Monitor Panel ......................................................... H-5
Overloading .............................................A-4, B-5, C-4
Overnight Stop ....................................................... D-7
Plumbing ................................................................ G-1
Range ....................................................................... I-4
Refrigerator .............................................................. I-3
Roof Vent ................................................................. I-6
INDEX
Safety Defects, Reporting ......................................A-6
Safety .................................................... B-2, D-1, G-2
Sanitizing, Fresh Water tank .................................. G-5
Seat Belts .............................................................. B-3
Service ....................................................................A-5
Sewer Hose .......................................................... G-14
Shades ................................................................... F-2
Shower Stall ...........................................................F-1
Smoke Alarm ......................................................... D-1
Sofa ........................................................................F-1
Solar Panel Pre-Wire .............................................. H-9
Spare Tire ............................................................... C-7
Specifications ......................................................... J-1
Storage .................................................................. B-1
Switch Over Box ..................................................... H-4
Tank Capacities ...................................................... J-1
Tank Drain ...................................................... G-4, G-9
Tank, Holding ..............................D-11, G-9, G-12, J-1
Tank, Water ...................................G-4, G-9, G-12, J-1
Tank, LPG .......................................................G-1, J-1
Tires ........................................................................ C-3
Air Pressure ............................................ C-3, C-4
Alignment ......................................................... C-3
Changing ........................................................ C-6
Torque ............................................................. C-9
Rotation .......................................................... C-9
Support ......................................................... C-10
Toilet .................................................................... G-10
Towing ................................................................... B-4
TV Antenna ............................................................ H-7
Tub/Shower ............................................................F-1
Vent, Power .............................................................I-6
Ventilation ....................................................... D-8, J-6
Washing/Waxing .....................................................E-1
Warning .................................................... Introduction
Warranty .........................................................A-1, A-3
Warranty Explanation ............................................. A-4
Water Filter ............................................................ G-5
Water Heater ......................... E-5, G-4, G-12, H-3, I-5
Water Heater By Pass .......................................... G-13
Water Hookup ............................................... G-4, G-6
Water Pump ........................................................... G-5
Water Strainer ........................................................ G-5
Water System ......................................................... G-4
Water Valves .................................................. G-4, G-8
Weighing .......................................................B-1, B-11
Wet Bath ..................................................................F-1
Winterizing ........................................................... G-12
Winter Traveling ................................................... D-11
Airstream Interstate Owner’s Manual
© Airstream, Inc. 2007

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