Airstream Nterstate Users Manual 2007_Interstate_OM

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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

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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.

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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.

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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.

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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

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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.

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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

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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

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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

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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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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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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,

D

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.

D

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.

D

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.

D

D - 10

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.

D

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.

E

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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EXTERIOR

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.

E

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.

E

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.

1

2

6

78

12

13

11

3

4

9

10

14

5

E

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.

E

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.

12

6

7

8

12

13

11

3

4

9

10

14

5

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.

1

2

3

4

5

6

7

8

E

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