CLASSIC TRAILER Own Classic2003

User Manual: CLASSIC TRAILER

Open the PDF directly: View PDF PDF.
Page Count: 170

DownloadCLASSIC TRAILER Own Classic2003
Open PDF In BrowserView PDF
2003 AIRSTREAM CLASSIC TRAILER OWNERS MANUAL

INTRODUCTION
The Owners Manual for your new Airstream trailer is designed to respond to the most frequent inquiries regarding the
operation, function and care of the many systems that make modern trailering a joy.
Airstream realizes our customers possess varying degrees of expertise in the area of repairing and maintaining the appliances in
their trailer. 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.
A brief explanation of the operation of the appliances such as refrigerator, furnace, water heater and others are explained in this
manual. However, you will also find the manufacturer's information supplied in a packet included with this manual more
detailed.
All information, illustrations and specifications contained in the literature are based on the latest product information available
at the time of publication approval.

Throughout this manual CAUTION and

WARNING notations are used.

Failure to observe CAUTION can damage equipment.

WARNING notes the possibility of personal and/or fatal injury if not observed.
Note: If and when new materials and production techniques are developed which can improve the quality of its product, or
material substitutions are necessary due to availability, Airstream reserves the right to make such changes.
The next page of this manual is a table of contents. Point your cursor to the subject, colored blue, you would like to research.
Right click your mouse while it is on the subject title and you will be taken to that area of the manual.
To get back to table of contents, click on the back arrow in the tool bar at the top of the document. The arrow will be lighted.
The next two pages contain an index of subject material in alphabetical order.

©AIRSTREAM INC. 2002

2003 AIRSTREAM CLASSIC TRAILER OWNERS MANUAL

A.

WARRANTY AND SERVICE

Warranty
Warranty Explanation
Service
Reporting Safety Defects
Maintenance Schedule
Maintenance Parts & Supplies

B.

TOWING

Tow Vehicles
Brakes
Loading
Weighing
Hitching Up
Towing Tips
Pre-Travel Check List

C.

CAMPING

Camping Safety
Overnight Stop
Slide Out Room
Extended Stay
Leveling & Stabilizing
Hook Ups
Winter Traveling

D.

EXTERIOR

Cleaning
Chassis
Power Jack
Tires
Axle and Running Gear
Electric Brakes

E.
INTERIOR FURNISHINGS AND
ACCESSORIES
Fabric Care
Lounges & Tables
Features & Fixtures
Storage Areas
Smoke Alarm
Gas Detector
Fire Extinguisher
Exterior Windows Screens
F.

PLUMBING

LP (Liquid Petroleum) Gas
Water
Drainage
Winterizing
Drain and Waste
Toilet
G.

ELECTRICAL

Battery
Converter
12-Volt System & Components
TV Antenna
Satellite Antenna
Solar Panel
Bathroom Exhaust
Monitor Panel
Ventline Instructions
110-Volt System & Components
F.

APPLIANCES

Air Conditioner
Furnace
Range/Oven
Microwave
Refrigerator
Water Heater
Roof Vent, High Volume
I.

SPECIFICATIONS

AIRSTREAM CLASSIC TRAILER OWNERS MANUAL

Accessories............................................B-13
Air Conditioner........................................H-1
Alignment................................................. I-2
Antennas..................................... G-31, G-35
Appliances ...............................................H-1
Axles ...................................................D-8
Awning ...................................................D-2
Backing ..................................................B-1l
Battery .................................... E-3, G-2, I-2
Bath Exhaust..................................E-2, G-36
Bathroom ................................................. E-2
Bearing ...................................................D-8
Beds
................................................... E-2
Black Tank Flush............................F-9, F-37
Bottles, LP ............................................... F-2
Brake Controller ............................B-9, D-10
Brakes .................................B-2, B-9, D-10
Breakaway Switch .........................B-2, D-10
Bulbs .................................A-8, E-4, G-32
Camping ..................................................C-1
Carpet ................................................... E-2
Capacities ................................................. I-1
Cargo ........................................... B-4, E-4
Caution ..................................... Introduction
Chassis ...................................................D-3
Check List..............................................B-12
City Water Hook-Up ..............C-5, F-8, F-37
Cleaning ..................................................D-1
Circuit Breakers.................. G-9, G-42, G-39
Coaxial Cable Wiring ............................G-29
Condensation ...........................................C-7
Converter ...................................... G-3, G-42
Connector
7-Way .......................................... G-5, G-6
110-volt ..............................................G-42
Couch ................................................... E-2
Countertop ............................................... E-2
Coupler ...................................................D-3
Curtains ................................................... E-2
Control Panel...................................E-3, G-2
Dimensions............................................... I-1
Dinette ................................................... E-3
Doors
Main ...................................................D-2
Screen ..................................................D-2
Drain Valves......................................... F-28
Drainage ................................................ F-37
Drapes ................................................... E-2
Dump Valves......................................... F-37

Electrical................................................. G-1
12 Volt................................................. G-1
110 Volt ..................................... C-7, G-42
Circuit Breakers............... G-9, G-42, G-44
Diagrams
12 Volt...................................... G-7
110 Volt........................ G-42, G-44
120 Volt.................................. G-41
7-Way Cable..................... B-3, G-6
Power Cord ................................ C-5, G-42
Trouble Shooting ............................... G-11
Escape Window ...............C-1, C-5, D-2, E-9
Exhaust Fans......................................... G-36
Extended Stay ..........................................C-4
Exterior Maintenance ............................. D-1
Factory Service ....................................... A-5
Fans
.................................E-4, G-36, H-7
Faucets .................................. F-6, F-8, F-10
Fill Valves ............................................... F-1
Filter, Water........................................... F-10
Fire Extinguisher .....................................E-9
Flat Tire .......................................... C-4, D-5
Furnace ...........................................E-4, H-2
Fuses .................................................. A-8
Galley ...................................................E-2
Gas, LP ...................................................C-7
Gas Regulator .......................................... F-2
Grey Tank (Aux) ............................ F-37, I-1
Ground Fault Interrupter....................... G-44
Grounding............................................. G-39
GVWR ...................................................B-4
GAWR ...................................................B-5
Hitch ............................................ B-6, I-2
Hitching Up .............................................B-6
Hitch Weight ...........................................B-5
Holding Tanks ....................................... F-31
Hitch Ball Height......................B-7, D-3, I-2
Humidity..................................................C-7
Interior ...................................................E-1
Jacks ...................................................C-4
Stabilizing.....................................C-2, C-4
Tire Changing .............................. C-4, D-5

AIRSTREAM CLASSIC TRAILER OWNERS MANUAL
Lavatory .................................................. E-2
Length, Trailer.......................................... I-1
Leveling ...................................................C-4
Lights .........................................E-4, G-32
Loading ........................................... B-4, E-4
Lounge ................................................... E-2
LP Bottles ................................................ F-2
LP Gas ....................................C-7, E-8, F-1
LP Gas Detector ...................................... E-8

Table ...................................................E-3
Tires
............................................D-5, I-2
Tongue Latch.......................................... D-3
Tongue Weight ........................................B-5
Toilet ................................................. F-45
Towing ...........................................B-1, B-9
Tow Car ...........................................B-1, B-7
TV
...................................................C-5
TV Antenna .......................................... G-31

Maintenance Parts ...................................A-8
Maintenance Record................................A-9
Maintenance Schedule.............................A-6
Microwave...............................................H-4
Monitor Panel ...............E-3, F-6, F-37, G-37

Upholstery ...............................................E-1

Oven ...................................................H-3
Overnight Stop ........................................C-2

Warning ..................................... Introduction
Warranty ................................................. A- I
Washing .................................................. D-1
Waste System ........................................ F-31
Water System........................................... F-6
Drainage .................................. F-36
Filter ........................................ F-10
Heater ...................... E-4, F-28, H-6
Inlet Connection ...................... F-29
Pump ..........................E-3, F-6, F-8
Strainer ...................................... F-6
Tank........................... F-6, F-28, I-1
Valves ................................................. F-28
Waxing .................................................. D-1
Weight ...................................................B-4
Weight Distribution .................................B-6
Wheel
Torque.................................................. D-5
Alignment ......................................D-8, I-2
Bearing ................................................ D-8
Windows..........................................D-2, E-9
Winter Traveling......................................C-7
Winterizing ............................................ F-29
Wiring ...................................See Electrical

Parking ...................................................C-2
Passing .................................................B-10
Plumbing ................................................. F-1
Power Cord....................................C-5, G-42
Power Jack...............................................D-3
Range ...................................................H-3
Refrigerator .............................................H-5
Regulator, LP........................................... F-2
Roof Vents.......................................E-4, H-7
Rotation, Tire...........................................D-7
Safety ................... A-5, C-1, E-9, F-4, H-6
Safety Chains...........................................B-8
Sanitizing................................................. F-7
Screens ...........................................D-2, E-9
Service ...................................................A-5
7-Way Conn ........................... B-3, G-5, G-6
Sewer Hose............................................ F-36
Shower ................................................... E-2
Sink
................................................... E-2
Slide-out Room........................................C-2
Smoke Alarm........................................... E-5
Sofa
................................................... E-2
Solar Panel.............................................G-35
Specifications ........................................... I-1
Stabilizing................................................C-4
Step
...................................................D-2
Storage ......................................... E-4, F-29
Stove ...................................................H-3
Suspension...............................................D-8

Valves, Drain ......................................... F-28
Ventline Instructions............................. G-35
Vents ...........................................E-4, H-7

Zone Heating ...........................................E-4

AIRSTREAM CLASSIC TRAILER OWNERS MANUAL
WARRANTY COVERAGE
When you buy a new Airstream Travel Trailer from an authorized Airstream dealer, Airstream, Inc.,
warrants the trailer from defects in material and workmanship as follows:
BASIC WARRANTY PERIOD
This warranty extends for a period of two years from the date of original retail purchase.
ITEMS COVERED
Any part of the trailer or any component equipment installed by the factory is covered by the basic
warranty except the following items, which are not covered:
•
•

Tires
Batteries

The tire and battery warranties will be handled by their respective service points and according to their
written policy. This limited warranty does not include failure caused by accident, abuse, normal wear,
overload, or any cause not attributable to a defect in original material or workmanship of the trailer or
component equipment as installed by the factory.
LIMITATION OF IMPLIED WARRANTIES
All warranties of merchantability and fitness for a particular purpose, whether written or oral, expressed or
implied, shall extend only for a period of two years from the date of original purchase. There are no other
warranties, which extend beyond those described on the face hereof and which expressly excludes
conditions resulting from normal wear, accident, abuse, exposure or overload. Some states do not allow
limitation on how long an implied warranty lasts, so the above limitations may not apply to you.
AIRSTREAM'S RESPONSIBILITY
The basic Airstream Limited Warranty applies for a period of two years from the date of original
purchase, and the application date of all warranties is that indicated on the owner's identification card.
Defects in items covered under this Warranty will be corrected without cost upon the return, at the owner's
expense, of the trailer or defective part to an authorized Airstream dealer.

A-1

AIRSTREAM CLASSIC TRAILER OWNERS MANUAL
CARE AND MAINTENANCE
This warranty covers only defective material and/or workmanship; adjustments are made at the factory
prior to shipment, and rechecked by the dealer prior to delivery to the customer. Adjustments thereafter
become a customer responsibility.
Each Airstream exterior (not including the underside) is clear coated to prevent oxidation. This application
is covered by a two-year warranty against peeling. Prolonged exposure to salt air or industrial fall-out will
permit penetration through the coating material, causing damage to the exterior finish. Since Airstream,
Inc., has no control over these conditions, it is necessary for the owner to wash and maintain their trailer as
instructed in the Owner's Manual.
The owner is also responsible for following all recommendations, instructions and precautions contained in
the Airstream Trailer Owner's Manual and the individual manuals furnished by the chassis, appliance and
other manufacturers.
INSTALLATIONS NOT COVERED
Airstream, Inc., does not accept any responsibility in connection with any of its trailers for additional
equipment or accessories installed at any dealership or other place of business, or by any other party. Such
installation of equipment or accessories by any other party will not be covered by the terms of this
warranty.
IF REPAIRS ARE NEEDED
If your trailer needs repairs under the terms of the basic Airstream Limited Warranty, you should:
1.

Take your trailer to your selling dealer or other Authorized Airstream Dealer.

2.

If the dealer is incapable of making the repair, request that he contact the Service Administration
Department at Airstream, Inc., for technical assistance.

3.

If repairs are still not made, the customer should contact:

AIRSTREAM, INC.
419 W. Pike Street - P.O. Box 629
Jackson Center, Ohio 45334-0629
Attention: Owner Relations Department
Furnish the following information:
• The complete serial number of the trailer
• Mileage
• Date of original purchase
• Selling dealer
• Nature of service problem and steps or service, which have been performed. (The owner
may be directed to another dealer at the owner's expense.)
4.
If, after taking the above steps, repairs are still not complete, the Airstream owner may request the
trailer be brought to the Factory Service Center at the owner's expense.

A-2

AIRSTREAM CLASSIC TRAILER OWNERS MANUAL
DEALER REPRESENTATION EXCLUDED
The full extent of the basic Airstream Limited Warranty is set forth in detail in the folder, and in the
explanation of the basic Airstream Limited Warranty covered in the Airstream Trailer Owner's Manual.
Airstream Inc. will not be responsible for additional representations or implied warranties made by any of
its dealers to the extent those representations are not a part of, or are contrary to, the terms and conditions
of the basic Airstream Limited Warranty.
CONSEQUENTIAL AND INCIDENTAL DAMAGES
Airstream, Inc., will not be responsible for any consequential or incidental expenses or damages
resulting from a defect. Incidental expenses include, but are not limited to: travel expenses, gasoline,
oil, lodging, meals, telephone tolls, and loss of work and loss of use of the trailer. Some examples of
consequential damages would be: stained curtains due to rain leaks or delaminated floor caused by a
plumbing leak. 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.
WARRANTY TRANSFER
The basic Airstream Limited Warranty is transferable to subsequent owners for the duration of the
warranty period. Warranty transfer application forms are available from your dealer or the Airstream Inc.
Service Administration Department.
CHANGES IN DESIGN
Airstream Inc. reserves the right to make changes in design and improvements upon its product without
imposing my obligation upon itself to install the same upon its products theretofore manufactured.
This warranty gives you specific legal rights, and you may also have other rights, which vary from
state to state.

A-3

AIRSTREAM CLASSIC TRAILER OWNERS MANUAL
EXPLANATION OF AIRSTREAM LIMITED WARRANTY
The Airstream Limited Warranty is detailed in a separate folder. A plastic WARRANTY
IDENTIFICATION CARD is sent to you after Airstream receives notification from your dealer of the sale.
Since this I.D. card is necessary to obtain warranty, it should be kept in the trailer or on your person during
the warranty period.
EXCLUSIONS:
Normal Wear
Items such as tires, water purifier packs, curtains, upholstery, floor coverings, window, door and vent seals
will show wear or may even wear out within the two year warranty period depending upon the amount of
usage, weather, and atmospheric conditions.
Accident
We strongly urge our dealers and customers to inspect the trailer upon receipt of delivery for any damage
caused by accident while being delivered to the dealer, or while it is on the dealer's lot. Damage of this
nature becomes the dealer or customer's responsibility upon acceptance of delivery, unless Airstream is
notified and the person making the delivery verifies the damage. Glass breakage, whether obviously struck
or mysterious, is always accidental and covered by most insurance policies.
Abuse
Lack of customer care and/or improper maintenance will result in early failure for which Airstream cannot
be held responsible.
Exposure
Not unlike a car, the steel parts of a trailer can and will rust if subjected to prolonged exposure to moisture,
salt air, or corrosive air-borne pollutants without repainting. Aluminum oxidizes when unprotected under
similar conditions, and refinery chemicals of a sulfurous nature are harmful to finishes if not washed off
periodically. Extremely hot or direct sunlight will deteriorate rubber and fade curtains and upholstery.
Conditions of this nature, although they may be normal for the area, are beyond Airstream's control and
become the responsibility of the owner.
Although it is our obligation to correct a rain or plumbing leak within the terms of the limited warranty, it is
the owner's responsibility to use reasonable, prudent care to minimize foreseeable secondary damage, such
as a delaminated floor, stained upholstery, carpeting, drapes etc.
Overload
Damage due to loading, either beyond capacity or to cause improper towing because of improper balance,
is beyond Airstream's responsibility. The Airstream trailer is engineered to properly handle the gross
vehicle load rating on the certification label. Load distribution has a definite effect upon the towing
characteristics and attitudes of the trailer. Level hitch installations are a necessity, and very important on a
tandem axle trailer. There are limits to the amount of load that can be safely transported depending upon
speed and road conditions, and reasonable cause to believe these factors have been exceeded could void the
Airstream warranty. For additional information on the loading of your trailer, consult your Owner's Manual
or gross vehicle weight rating plate.
The Airstream axle is manufactured to a tolerance of 1-degree camber and 1/8" toe-in. These tolerances
will only change if the trailer is subjected to abuse, such as dropping off a sharp berm, striking a curb, or
hitting a deep hole in the road. Such damage could be considered as resulting from an accident which risks
are not covered under the warranty. Abnormal tire wear and/or wheel alignment resulting from such
damage is not covered under the terms of the warranty.

A-4

AIRSTREAM CLASSIC TRAILER OWNERS MANUAL
SERVICE:
The Airstream Silver Key Delivery Program is an exclusive Airstream program. Before leaving the factory,
each and every vital part of the trailer is tested for performance. Each test is signed and certified by an
inspector. After the trailer arrives on your dealer's lot all of these vital parts and systems are again tested.
When you take delivery of your new trailer you will receive a complete check out.
Silver Key Delivery does not stop here. At that time a specified list of performance checks on your trailer
equipment will be conducted and any deficiencies you have experienced since taking delivery will be
corrected.
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 trailer. This list is current as of the date of this
publication.
Occasionally dealerships change, or new dealers are added who may not appear on this list. For this reason,
it is suggested that you contact your local dealer from time to time and bring your list up to date. He can
also provide you with additional copies if you need them. ALL CENTERS OPERATE ON AN
APPOINTMENT BASIS FOR THE UTMOST EFFICIENCY.
When you require service from the Airstream Factory Service Center, or a Certified Dealer Service Center,
please contact the service manager for an appointment, and kindly inform him if you are unable to keep the
appointment date or wish to change it.
Service may be arranged at the Factory Service Center by contacting the Service Coordinator at
Airstream Factory Service Center P.O. Box 629
419 W. Pike Street
Jackson Center, Ohio 45334-0629
937-596-6111
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 1-800-424-9393 (or 366-0123
in Washington, D.C. area) or write to: NHTSA, U.S. Department of Transportation, Washington, D.C.
20590. You can also obtain other information about motor vehicle safety from the Hotline.

A-5

AIRSTREAM CLASSIC TRAILER OWNERS MANUAL
MAINTENANCE SCHEDULE

WARNING: FAILURE TO MAINTAIN YOUR COACH CAN CAUSE PREMATURE
AND UNEXPECTED PARTS BREAKAGE AND/OR ERRATIC OPERATION THAT MAY BE
HAZARDOUS.
Note: See appliance manufacturer's literature for further information
EVERY 1,000 MILES OR 60 DAYS
Escape Window

Check operation of latches and upper hinge.

*Battery

Check water level

Smoke Alarm

Test and replace battery as required

Tires

Check tire pressure (See Specifications)),

Hitch

Check for loose bolts or unusual wear.

GFI Circuit Breaker

Test and record.

WARNING: On new trailers or whenever a wheel is removed, check lug bolts at 200
miles and 1,000 miles. Torque 85 ft. lbs.
EVERY 5,000 MILES OR 90 DAYS
Exterior Door locks

Lubricate with dry graphite

Exterior Hinges

Lubricate with light household oil

LPG Hold Down

Lubricate with light household oil

LPG Regulator

Check bottom vent for obstructions

Main Door Striker Pocket

Coat with paraffin.

Wheel Lug Bolts

Torque to 85 ft. lbs.

Break Away Switch

Pull pin and lubricate with household oil

7-Way Plug

Spray with contact cleaner.

Hitch Ball Latch

Lubricate with non-detergent motor oil

Hitch Ball

Lubricate with hitch ball lube or wheel bearing grease.

Range Exhaust Hood

Clean fan blades and wash filter.

Roof Vent Elevator Screws

Lubricate with light household oil

Main Door Step

Lubricate moving parts and check.

* As a battery ages and becomes less efficient, the water level should be checked at more frequent levels.

A-6

AIRSTREAM CLASSIC TRAILER OWNERS MANUAL
EVERY 10, 000 MILES OR 6 MONTHS
Brakes

Inspect, adjust or replace as necessary

Wheel Bearings

Clean and repack

Tires

Inspect and rotate

Spare Tire Carrier

Lubricate moving parts.

Seals, Windows & Door

Clean with mild detergent and coat with "Slipicone".

TV Antenna

Lubricate all moving parts with silicone lubricant.

Exterior

Wax

Escape Window

Lubricate latches with WD-40.

EVERY YEAR
Battery

Clean, neutralize and coat terminals with petroleum jelly.

A-Frame, Step

Wire brush and paint frame at front and rear.

LP Bottles

Have purged by LP supplier.

Seams

Check and reseal exterior seams, windows, lights and vents if
necessary. Use Ten X or equivalent.

Hitch Coupler and Ball

Check for wear or damage. Assure all parts operate freely.
Replace any component if worn or damaged.

A-7

AIRSTREAM CLASSIC TRAILER OWNERS MANUAL

SUGGESTED MAINTENANCE PARTS AND LUBRICANTS
BULBS, EXTERIOR
Taillight
Back Up
License Plate
Clearance Light
Door Light
Convenience Light (Dump Valve)
Convenience Light (Hitch)

#2057
#1156
# 53, wedge base #
194, wedge base
#1003
# 53, wedge base
# 193, wedge base

BULBS, INTERIOR
Ceiling Light (Incandescent)
Ceiling Light (Fluorescent)
Ceiling Light (Small Fluorescent, Thin Lite)
Indirect, Dining & Bedroom (Fluorescent)
Wardrobe Light & Dinette Light
Wall Light
Reading Light

#1141
#Fl4T8-CW #F8T5-CW
#F8T5-CW
#Fl8T8-CW & F15T8-CW
#561
#1076
#JC-10, wedge base

FUSES
Entertainment Center

ATC 15 Amp

Battery Cable Fuses (Canadian approved trailers only)

SLC 50 Amp

MISCELLANEOUS
Water Hose Gaskets

Wheel Bearing Grease

Extra Hair Pin Clips for Hitch

Grease Seals

Dry Graphite

WD-40 or Equivalent Aerosol Lubricant

Oil Can with 30 Weight Non-Detergent Oil

Silicone Lubricant

Light Household Type Oil

Spray Contact Cleaner

Hitch Ball Lube (May use wheel bearing grease.)

Sealer - Ten X

A-8

AIRSTREAM CLASSIC TRAILER OWNERS MANUAL
MAINTENANCE RECORD

DATE

DEALER

SERVICE PERFORMED

A-9

AIRSTREAM CLASSIC TRAILER OWNERS MANUAL
NOTES

A-10

AIRSTREAM CLASSIC TRAILER OWNERS MANUAL
TOWING YOUR AIRSTREAM

TOW CAR EQUIPMENT
If you plan to buy a new vehicle to tow your trailer we suggest that you include in your purchase the towing
options offered by most automobile manufacturers. These include such things a heavy-duty alternator and
radiator, heavy-duty springs (See Note:) and shock absorbers, transmission cooler, heavy-duty fan and
flasher unit and others, depending upon the make of the vehicle.
Transmissions may be manual or automatic, but an automatic transmission may prolong your car’s life and
generally does a better job of controlling engine loads than the average driver using a manual shift.
Having adequate power is very important when considering the purchase of a new vehicle or the trailer
towing capability of your present one. American manufacturers realize more than 30% of the vehicles they
sell will be used for towing some type of trailer. The dealers are provided with guidelines to use when
helping a customer decide on a tow vehicle. The guidelines are not just determined by the power output of
the engine. The gear ratio of the differential is also a very part of the guideline.
Inspect vehicle's hitch regularly for loose bolts or nuts, cracked welds, loose ball mounts, worn parts, etc.
New trailerists often carry more food and other supplies than really needed. Remember that every item you
take along is one more thing to stow and adds weight to the total load you must pull. Consolidate items in
shelves, lockers, and in the refrigerator. It is better to have one full and one empty locker, than two half
empty ones. Special care must be taken not to overload the front and rear ends of the trailer.
NOTE: Be realistic when ordering heavy duty springs. Only springs heavy enough to support your loaded
vehicle (not including trailer) are necessary. Too harsh of spring rate will only shorten the life of the tow
vehicle and trailer, and will make your journeys less enjoyable.

B-1

AIRSTREAM CLASSIC TRAILER OWNERS MANUAL

ELECTRIC BRAKES
The brakes are operated by 12 volt current from your tow vehicle and MUST BE HOOKED UP SO THAT
YOU HAVE AN INTEGRAL SYSTEM WITH YOUR TOW VEHICLE BRAKES. To prevent problems
and insure satisfactory braking action, install an electronic controller in line with the brakes in your tow
vehicle.
An electronic controller installed in your tow vehicle will synchronize the trailer brakes with your tow
vehicle brakes. It is designed to apply the trailer brakes with your tow vehicle brakes.
Your brake controller should be adjusted to provide for a slight lead of the trailer brakes over the tow
vehicle brakes. Follow the directions provided with your controller and keep the information for future
reference. Don't be afraid to ask questions! If you don't understand the directions, have the installer explain
the procedures.
Due to normal brake lining wear, the brakes and the controller setting should be checked and readjusted, if
necessary, during the trailer manufacturer's recommended inspection intervals.
Note: Brake lining adjustment should be periodically checked (fully) to be sure trailer brakes are in the
same adjustment as the tow vehicles.
Properly set these adjustments will provide for safe comfortable stops. They will also help assure
optimum brake and tire life for both the tow vehicle and the trailer.
In THE EVENT OF AN ACCIDENTAL SEPARATION of the tow vehicle and the trailer, the BREAKAWAY SWITCH will set and lock the trailer brakes for a sufficient length of time to stop the trailer. The
switch is activated when the wire attached to it and to the tow vehicle pulls out the small pin in the front of
the unit. THIS PIN SHOULD BE PULLED OUT, LUBRICATED WITH LIGHT HOUSEHOLD OIL,
AND REPLACED EVERY 90 DAYS.
To prevent corrosion within the breakaway switch, pull the switch's pin straight forward and spray the
inside of the switch through the hole with an electric contact cleaner (such as Spra- Kleen) and reinsert pin.
A drop of light household oil on the groove near the base of the pin will allow the pin to operate freely.
WHEN THE TRAILER IS CONNECTED TO THE TOW VEHICLE, THE BREAKAWAY SWITCH
LOOP SHOULD BE ATTACHED TO THE PERMANENT FRAME OF YOUR HITCH. When
disconnecting the trailer from the tow vehicle remove wire loop from the frame. DO NOT REMOVE PIN
FROM SWITCH BECAUSE THIS WILL APPLY THE TRAILER BRAKES.

CAUTION: Do not use breakaway switch for parking brake.

B-2

AIRSTREAM CLASSIC TRAILER OWNERS MANUAL

B-3

AIRSTREAM CLASSIC TRAILER OWNERS MANUAL
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 the first wardrobe door on the curbside of the vehicle about 60" up
from the floor.

See specification section in this manual for definition and weight pertaining to this label.
When loading heavy objects such as tools, skillets, irons, and boxes of canned goods, etc. keep them as low
as possible - preferably on the floor. Try to hold additional weight behind the axle to a minimum.

WARNING: Never add items such as generators, heavy toolboxes or motorcycle racks to
the back of the trailer. Weight behind the axle will tend to magnify any sway that may occur when
passing trucks or in gusty wind. If a heavy generator is mounted on the rear bumper what may have
been an almost unnoticeable sway turns into a severe sway you may not he able to control.
CAUTION: Damage to your trailer caused by mounting heavy objects on the rear is considered
abuse, and is not covered by warranty.
WEIGHING YOUR TRAILER
The diagram below shows how to weigh the trailer on scales

B-4

AIRSTREAM CLASSIC TRAILER OWNERS MANUAL
The allowable personal cargo must be distributed in your trailer in such a manner that the Gross Axle
Weight Rating is not exceeded.
To determine this it is necessary to load all of your allowable personal cargo and variable weights. Then
hitch the trailer to the tow vehicle with load equalizing hitch properly adjusted as shown on the following
pages.
Place the trailer on a scale with both axles only on the scale (see 2). If the weight on the axles exceeds the
axle system G.A.W.R. then some of the personal cargo must be redistributed forward in order to place
some of this weight on the tongue.
The tongue weight should be in between 10% - 15% of the trailer's total weight, but must not exceed 1,000
lbs. Some tow vehicle manufacturers may restrict the amount of tongue load to a lower value. To determine
tongue load, unhitch tow vehicle and place the tongue hitch post on a scale. The trailer must be properly
loaded as determined above, with your allowable personal cargo and variable weights.
Used a scale, such as a bathroom scale, that has a lower weight limit than your tongue load to check the
tongue weight by using the following method (see illustration).
Place a piece of wood of approximately the same thickness as the bathroom scales on the ground in line
with the trailer hitch jack as shown. It should be so spaced that a short piece of pipe or other round piece
will lay exactly one foot from the centerline of the jack extension. Place the scales so that another round
piece can be exactly two feet from the centerline of the jack extension in the other direction. Place a 4 x 4
on the two round pieces and screw the jack extension down on the top of the 4 x 4 until the tongue of the
trailer is supported by it. Multiply the scale reading by three. This will be the tongue weight of your trailer.
If you exceed the capacity of the bathroom scales, increase the two-foot dimension to three or four more
feet, but always multiply the scale reading by the total number of feet between the wood and scales.

CAUTION: Be sure trailer is level when you read scales.

B-5

AIRSTREAM CLASSIC TRAILER OWNERS MANUAL
HITCHING UP
Hitching up your trailer is something that will
become almost second nature with practice. The
following section includes proper hitch load
distribution and a procedure for hitching up.
Equalizing Hitch Load Distribution
When a trailer is hitched up properly to a tow
vehicle with a load equalizing hitch, approximately
1/3 of the trailer's tongue weight will be on the
trailer's axles and 2/3 will be transferred to the tow
vehicle, 1/3 of this weight transfer will be carried by
the front wheels and 1/3 by the rear wheels of the
tow vehicle (See diagram), Thus, the tire load of
each wheel on the tow vehicle will be increased by
1/6 of the trailer's tongue weight. The tire air
pressure of the tow vehicle should be increased to
compensate for this additional weight. Refer to the
vehicle's owner’s manual for this information.

WARNING: The tongue weight should
he approximately 10% to 14% of the trailer's
total weight. Under no condition should it exceed
the hitch rating. Your hitch installer should
provide your hitch rating information to you.
Sway Control Device
Although Airstream has not intruded into the hitch
manufacturers field of expertise and preformed
formal testing, we find the vast majority of
Airstream owners purchases sway-control devices.
When passed by large trucks or when exposed to
sudden crosswinds the trailer will be "pushed" and this action will be felt in the tow vehicle. It's our
understanding the sway control devices will reduce the amount of movement and make towing more
comfortable and add some safety.
Follow the directions of the sway control manufacturer when having it installed and using it.
Steps for Hitching Up
Jack up the trailer hitch until there is clearance for the HITCH BALL to slide under. Remove the safety pin,
slide the locking lever forward and raise. Back the tow vehicle straight back to the hitch. (See Fig. 2). This
can best be accomplished through the use of prearranged hand signals with the help of another person; but
if you are hitching up by yourself we recommend the use of a HOOK-UP VIEW MIRROR.
Lower the trailer hitch onto the hitch ball. Then close the locking lever and insert safety pin. (See Fig. 3)
Now raise the trailer and tow vehicle to the full height of the hitch jack (See Fig. 7) and then attach the
LEVELING BARS. (See Fig. 4, 5 & 6). Lower the tow vehicle and trailer (See Fig. 7).

B-6

AIRSTREAM CLASSIC TRAILER OWNERS MANUAL
The hitch ball should be level to slightly higher. Readjust leveling bars until this condition is correct by
increasing or decreasing the length the chain engaged in “A” frame saddle bracket. Short chain raises hitch
ball, longer chain lowers it. A level condition will result in the best balance for towing and steering control
as the weight-equalizing hitch distributes the hitch load.

A low hitch ball increases tail wagging
tendencies by lowering the nose of the
trailer, thus changing the center of support
for the trailer and reducing the weight on
the four wheels of the tow vehicle. With
proper hitch installation and hitching up,
the bar should have a noticeable amount of
the deflection or bending. "See figure 8".
A little practice with your rig will teach you
how far to pull the bar; you may wish to
mark the chain links that match your rig.
Always choose level ground for checking
correct hookup.
Note: If you're tow vehicle is equipped with
adjustable load leveling air shocks, you
must load the tow vehicle first with typical
luggage and passengers and bring it back to
level. Then attach the trailer and adjust the
load leveling bars. Otherwise the air
shocks on the tow vehicle will overload the
rear wheels. Do not use air shocks to level
tow vehicle and trailer after hitching up.

B-7

AIRSTREAM CLASSIC TRAILER OWNERS MANUAL
Note: Leveling the trailer end to end, then measuring from the
ground to the top of the ball socket determines Coupler height
on the trailer.
Attach the safety chains (see figure 10) to the welded portion
of the hitch or tow vehicle's frame, but never to the removable
ball mount. Cross the safety chains under the hitch.

Caution; retract the hitch jack completely for maximum
ground clearance. Remove the jack pad (See Figure 12)
and stow in the car’s trunk along with the leveling jack and
other gear used when stopped. NEVER TOW YOUR
TRAILER WITH THE JACK DOWN. Check that the
foldaway step is up and that the main door is completely
closed and LOCKED for towing. If it is not locked the
constant vibration of travel may cause it to open with
possible damage.

Move the rig ahead about 50 feet and test the trailer
brakes, then check the ground for forgotten objects.
Regularly check the condition of your tires, air
pressure, and the tightness of your lug bolts.

Fig 12

B-8

AIRSTREAM CLASSIC TRAILER OWNERS MANUAL
TOWING TIPS
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 mirrors are a must 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.

Tracking
On a two-lane road cars will be lining up behind you because you travel at a lower speed. It is both
courteous and sensible to signal, pull onto the shoulder, and let them pass. Your trailer is designed to be
towed easily at any legal speed, so if you are not careful you may be inclined to forget it is there.
The BRAKE CONTROLLER is activated when you apply the brakes of the tow vehicle. Your tow vehicle
brakes will automatically apply the trailer brakes first when properly adjusted. This will help keep your tow
vehicle and trailer in a straight line and make you stop as if you were driving the tow vehicle alone. If
swaying or swerving should occur, briefly operating the controller separate from the vehicle brakes may
help correct the situation. Practice this maneuver on a clear highway. Don't wait for an emergency then
grope for the controller.
When trailering you might encounter a temporary cooling system overload during severe conditions such as
hot days when pulling on a long grade, when slowing down after higher speed driving, or driving long idle
periods in traffic jams. If the hot indicator light comes on, or the temperature gauge indicates overheating
and you have your air conditioner turned on, turn it off. Pull over in a safe place and put on your emergency
brake. Don't turn off the engine. Increase the engine idle speed. Lift the engine hood and check for fluid
leaks at the radiator overflow outlet. Check to see that all drive belts are intact and the fan is turning. If you
have a problem have it fixed at the next opportunity. If there is no problem the light should go off or
temperature should come down within one minute. Proceed on the highway a little slower. Ten minutes
later resume normal driving.

B-9

AIRSTREAM CLASSIC TRAILER OWNERS MANUAL

Passing

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 get 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 passingvehicle. Do not apply the vehicle brakes, as this can tend to exaggerate the situation. You may find,
however, that briefly applying the trailer brakes with your manual control will help eliminate sway.

WARNING: When stopping on a hill or slope, leaving your car in gear is not enough for
standstill safety. CHOCK THE TRAILER WHEELS to he double sure. Do not use trailer brakes as
parking brakes.

B-10

AIRSTREAM CLASSIC TRAILER OWNERS MANUAL
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 car will be following the trailer in an arc. Straighten the car 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.

B-11

AIRSTREAM CLASSIC TRAILER OWNERS MANUAL
SUGGESTED PRE-TRAVEL CHECK LIST
Interior
1.
2.
3.
4,
5.
6.
7.
8.
9.
10.
11.
12.
13

Turn off water pump switch.
Check battery water level.
Close windows and vents.
Lock all interior cabinet doors.
Latch refrigerator door. (Seal containers first.)
Hold down or stack securely all loose, hard and sharp objects.
Fasten sliding and foldette doors.
Drain toilet bowl.
Turn off interior lights.
Set table in upright position.
Pull up or retract step.
Lower blinds.
Secure and lock the main door.

Exterior
1.
2.
3.
4.
5.
6.
7.
8.
9.
10.
11.
12.

Disconnect and slow the electrical hookup cord, the sewer hookup hose (flush out), and the water
hookup hose.
Turn off gas at LP tanks.
Retract stabilizing jacks.
Check Hitch: It must be properly attached.
Check safety chains and breakaway switch cable.
Fully retract jack. Remove and stow jack stand or wood block.
Check clearance and stoplights.
Check lug nuts.
Check tires for correct pressure.
Check that TV antenna is properly stowed.
Adjust tow vehicle mirrors.
Pull forward some 50 ft., test brakes, and check site for forgotten objects and cleanliness.

Home
1.
2,
3,
4,
5.
6.
7.
8.
9.
10.
11.
12.
13.

Leave house key with your neighbors.
Valuables and important papers should be stored in a safe place.
Newspaper, milk and other deliveries should be discontinued.
Ask the Post Office to hold your mail for you.
Arrange with the telephone company for discontinued or "vacation service”.
Arrange care for your pets.
Your lawn, garden and houseplants should be cared for.
Lock all windows and doors securely. Keep shades open for a lived in look.
Cover all food to keep out mice and insects.
Eliminate all fire hazards Place matches in a tin box or glass jar.
Store oil, gasoline and other flammables properly.
Destroy all newspapers, magazines and oily rags.
Notify police.

B-12

AIRSTREAM CLASSIC TRAILER OWNERS MANUAL
Trailer Equipment and Accessories
1.
2.
3.
4.
5.
6.
7.
8.
9.
10.
11.
12.
13.
14.

Water hose, 5/8 in. high pressure, tasteless, odorless, non-toxic, (2 -- 25 ft. sections).
"Y" connection -- water hose.
The sewer hose with clamp.
Drain cap with hose drain.
Holding tank cleaner and deodorizer.
Power cord adapter 30 --amp Capacity.
50 ft. electric cord, 12-3 wire, 30-ampere capacity.
25 ft. electric cord, 10-3, 30-ampere capacity.
Woodblocks for leveling.
Wheel chocks.
Hydraulic jacks.
Cross type lug ranch.
Quality tire gauge.
Emergency road warning triangle.

Personal
1.
2.
3.
4.
5.
6.

Automobile insurance to cover you and your family fully.
Avoiding cash. Use Travelers Checks and credit cards.
Confirmed reservations.
Have sunglasses for everyone.
Pack camera and film.
Make a checklist of clothing for everyone, and toilet articles.

Motoring Essentials
1.
2.
3.
4.
5.
6.
7.
8.
9.
10.
11.
12.

Display the car and trailer registration properly.
Carry drivers license. In Canada you'll need a non-residence liability insurance card.
In Mexico you must have special auto insurance.
Carry an extra set of the ignition and truck keys in a separate pocket, or in your wallet.
Keep an operating flashlight with fresh batteries in the glove compartment.
Pack the trunk so that you can reach the tools and spare tire without completely unpacking.
Keep sharp or hard articles securely packed wherever they may be.
Do not packed things in the passenger seating area. You need the maximum space for comfort.
WEAR easy wash, drip-dry traveling clothes.
Do not make your vacation trips a mileage marathon. Stop and relax frequently.
Carry a first-aid kit.
Carry your pets dish, food, leash, and health and registration papers.

B-13

AIRSTREAM CLASSIC TRAILER OWNERS MANUAL
NOTES

B-14

AIRSTREAM CLASSIC TRAILER OWNERS MANUAL
CAMPING
SAFETY
As always, safety should be one of your top priorities. Make sure you, and everyone traveling with you, can
operate the main door and exit window rapidly without light. Contemplate other means of escape in case
the designated exits are blocked.

WARNING: The escape windows(s) can be identified by their red release handles. Lifting
up both latches, then turning the latches toward the center releases the escape window. Remove the
screen. A loop is provided in the SCREEN RETAINING SPLINE so it can be rapidly removed. Push
out on the glass and it will swing clear. The window operation should be checked each trip and the
latches lubricated with WD-40 or equivalent every six months.

WARNING: At each campsite make sure you have not parked in such a manner as to
block the operation of the escape window by being too close to trees, fences or other impediments.
Scenic views are one reason for traveling, but don't park so the beautiful lake or steep cliff is just
outside your escape window.
WARNING: Read the directions carefully on the fire extinguisher. If there is any doubt
on the operation, you and your family should practice, then replace or recharge the extinguisher.
You will find your local fire department will be happy to assist you and answer any questions.
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 trailer is located in the plumbing section of this
manual.

C-1

AIRSTREAM CLASSIC TRAILER OWNERS MANUAL
OVERNIGHT STOP
Airstream owners have parked virtually every placing imaginable from filling stations to farmlands. In
time you'll develop a knack for spying wonderful little roadside locations by turning off the main highway
and exploring.
There are many modern parks including State, County and Federal parks with good facilities where you
might obtain hookups of electrical, water and sewer connections. Directories are published which
described in detail these parks and tell what is available in the way of services and hookups.
On overnight or weekend trips chances are you will not use up the capacity of the sewage holding tank,
deplete the water supply, or rundown the battery which supplies the 12 volt current.
On a longer trip, when you have stayed where sewer connections and utility hookups were not available, it
will be necessary for you to stop from time to time to dispose of the waste in the holding tank and replenish
the water supply. Many gas stations (chain and individually owned) have installed sanitary dumping
stations for just this purpose. Booklets are available which lists these dumping stations.
When stopping for the night, your Airstream is built to be safely parked in any spot that is relatively level
and where the ground his firm. Your facilities are with you. You are self-contained. Unless the tow
vehicle is needed for transportation, it is not necessary to unhitch.

WARNING: Do not parked in a manner that would prevent the escape windows from
opening.
Try to pick as level a parking spot as possible. Stabilizing jacks or blocks probably won't be required for
an overnight stay unless you extend a slide out room. However, if you put the jack pad on the hitch jack
and run the hitch jack down to take the weight off the cars springs it will provide some stability. If you
must parked on a slope, PARK FACING DOWNHILL. It is easier to level the trailer this way.

SLIDE OUT ROOM
The trailer should be level prior to extending the
slide out room. The front stabilizing jacks
MUST be deployed. If the front jacks aren't
down when the room is extended the side to side
imbalance will twist the body of the trailer if it's
only supported by the front hitch jack. Please
read the complete leveling and stabilizing
instructions in the Extended Stay part of this
section.
Once leveled and stabilized, locate the switches
to operate the room. They are black and located
on the interior wall just forward of the room.
The left switch, marked lock downs, must be
used first. The lockdowns are the large paddle
latches on each end of the room. Depress the
switch to the unlock position and hold. You will
see the paddle latch on the forward end of the
room retracting. Hold the switch down until the
panels are completely retracted and you hear the
operating motors just start to strain. The motors
are thermal protected so you won't have to worry
about damaging them.

C-2

AIRSTREAM CLASSIC TRAILER OWNERS MANUAL
All models also have magnetic travel blocks that needs to be removed from the travel latches.
Now hold the slide out switch in the out position. Hold the switch until the motor stops indicating the room
is fully extended.
Retracting is the same procedures in reverse order. Make sure the room is retracted and the lockdown
paddle latches are firmly engaged PRIOR to storing the stabilizing jacks.
FAILURE TO RETRACT
In the unlikely event the room won't retract the first place to check is the lock down paddle latches. If
curious fingers have hit the lock down switch and the latches aren't fully closed power is automatically cut
to the slide out switch. To correct this situation depress the unlock position on the lock down switch until
you're sure they are fully retracted then try the slide out room switch again.
Check your 12-volt distribution panel for blown fuses. It is located on the right side of the cabinet under the
front window.
The next option is to manually close the room. Under your trailer, where the room is located, there's a large
hinged access panel attached to the underside of the trailer. It's rectangular and about a foot wide and six
feet long. On the side opposite the hinge three or four stainless steel screws hold the panel closed. Opening
the access panel reveals the motor and main drive shaft extending from the motor to the two gear driven
slides.
On one end of the motor is a short lever. Swinging the lever up releases a brake that prevents the shaft from
turning when the motor is shut off. With the brake released it's now possible to turn the drive shaft with a
3/4-inch wrench. The octagon stub for emergency use of a wrench is located on the end of the drive shaft
towards the back of the trailer.

Slide out Mechanism Manufacturer:

Power Gear
1-800-334-4712

All you need to do to enjoy the self-contained luxury of your Airstream is to turn on the LP gas and light
any appliances with pilots.
Before moving on, check your campsite both for cleanliness and also to be sure you haven't left anything
behind. Turn off the gas supply and make sure everything is properly stowed. Use your PRE-TRAVEL
CHECK LIST and you are ready for more travel adventure.

C-3

AIRSTREAM CLASSIC TRAILER OWNERS MANUAL
EXTENDED STAY
Making a long trip in your Airstream is not very different from making a weekend excursion. Since
everything you need is right at hand, you are at home wherever you go. When packing for an extended trip
take everything you need, but only what you need.
When you plan to stay in the same place for several days, weeks or months, you will want your trailer to be
as level and steady as possible. Check the attitude with a small spirit level set on the inside work counter or
the trailer hitch "A-Frame". (See Diagram Below) If a correction is necessary then YOU MUST LEVEL
FROM SIDE TO SIDE FIRST This can he done easily by backing the trailer up one or more 2" x 6"
boards. (See Diagram) We do not recommend placing tires in a hole for leveling.
LEVEL FROM FRONT TO REAR by disconnecting the hitch from the tow vehicle, putting the jack pad
under the hitch jack and adjusting the jack up or down until you are level. Block or chock the wheels to
keep the trailer from rolling. Use STABILIZING JACKS at all four corners as shown in the diagram to
eliminate the natural spring action of the axles. Optional STABILIZING JACKS, whether manual or
power, should only be used to stabilize trailer.

WARNING: Whenever the trailer must be lifted with a jack, as when changing a tire or
leveling on very rough terrain, ALWAYS PLACE THE LIFTING JACK UNDER THE MAIN
FRAME RAIL. A label is provided to indicate the proper position for the jack. NEVER USE
STABILIZING JACKS TO LIFT THE TRAILER.

C-4

AIRSTREAM CLASSIC TRAILER OWNERS MANUAL
HOOK UP TO WATER (See Fig. 3) by attaching a ½” minimum high-pressure water hose to the city water
service.
The power cord is stored in the lower roadside rear storage compartment. The cord is stored on a tray that
can be slid out and dropped down for ease of use.
The power cord is plugged into City Power Service.
Hook your WATER DRAIN HOSE (See Fig. 5) in the SEWER DISPOSAL FACILITY and attach to the
drain outlet in your trailer.
Turn on gas supply. Light the range and oven pilots. Turn on the water heater, refrigerator and furnace.
When you stay for an extended period where electric or water hookups are not available, you must make
regular checks on the condition of your 12-volt battery. Hooking up the tow vehicle/trailer electrical
connector and running the tow vehicle engine at a fast idle. 45 minutes per day should provide about 3-4
hours of power. Carry drinking water in a clean bucket to refill your tank. When your waste tank nears
capacity move to a dumping location.
The CABLE TV and TELEPHONE hookups are located in the power cord storage compartment. The
interior telephone jack will be located in the bedroom over the center nightstand in twin bed models and in
the hanging wardrobe on the roadside of the bed in the double models.

WARNING: Check your escape window(s) to make sure they will open completely. Also
make sure the terrain under the window is suitable for rapid exiting.

C-5

AIRSTREAM CLASSIC TRAILER OWNERS MANUAL

C-6

AIRSTREAM CLASSIC TRAILER OWNERS MANUAL
WINTER TRAVELING
Traveling in sub-freezing temperatures will require certain precautions to protect the plumbing system and
your personal belongings from being damaged by freezing.
Whenever possible the heat should be kept on at a constant temperature. It is easier for the furnace to keep
a constant room temperature than for the trailer temperature to be allowed to drop to 50 degrees Fahrenheit
then attempt to raise it to room temperature.

CAUTION: If you have the optional air conditioners with heat pump they should not be used if
ambient temperatures remain below 25 degrees F for more than 12 hours.
Only the furnaces are ducted to provide heat to tanks and plumbing to prevent freezing.

WARNING: Always shut off the LP gas and be sure all flames are extinguished before
gasoline is added to the tow vehicle.
Some states do not allow LPG to be turned on while moving. While traveling in these states you must use
your common sense. How cold is it? How long will it be before you can turn the heat back on? Is the
temperature dropping or raising? Remember, when towing at 50 MPH the wind chill factor will cause the
interior of the trailer to cool much faster than a trailer that is parked.
When parked in sub-freezing temperatures make sure you keep a full supply of LP gas and plug into a 110
volt power source whenever possible. A fully charged battery will not last more than 8 to 10 hours if the
furnace is running almost constantly and 110-volt power is not available.
Leave cabinet doors, wardrobes and bed doors partially open to allow warm air to circulate around
plumbing lines and fixtures. Insulate and/or wrap your exterior water lines with heat tape.

CAUTION: The exterior water service line to the utility compartment is in an unheated section of
the trailer and must not be used in below freezing conditions.
A water valve is provided so the water can be turned off to the line. The exterior water service shut off
valve is located in the lavatory cabinet. Close the shut off valve and open the water service for a few
seconds to drain the line and prevent freeze damage.
CONDENSATION
It is also important to guard against excessive humidity. Cold air will not hold the moisture, and sweating
will occur around window frames, on window glass and may occur where structural beams connect the
inner and outer walls of the trailer. The best method to combat sweating is to hold water vapor producing
functions to a minimum. Boiling water, baths, showers, washing dishes are necessities, but usually can be
reduced. Opening windows just slightly on opposite sides of the trailer will also help alleviate the problem.
In severe conditions you may want to use a small dehumidifier to aid in reducing condensation.
NOTE: The Airstream trailer is built as a recreational vehicle and is not intended as a permanent dwelling
or for more than temporary use in sub-freezing temperatures.

C-7

AIRSTREAM CLASSIC TRAILER OWNERS MANUAL
NOTES

C-8

AIRSTREAM CLASSIC TRAILER OWNERS MANUAL
EXTERIOR
Cleaning
As a general rule of thumb we recommend the trailer be washed about every four weeks and waxed in the
spring and fall. In industrial areas cleaning and waxing should be done on a more frequent schedule.

CAUTION: ABRASIVE POLISHES OR CLEANING SOLVENTS SUCH AS AUTOMATIC
DISHWASHER DETERGENTS OR ACID ETCH CLEANERS. ARE TOO STRONG AND
SHOULD NEVER BE USED. RINSE ALL GRIT FROM SURFACE PRIOR TO WASHING. DO
NOT USE WIRE BRUSHES, STEEL WOOL, ABRASIVES OR OTHER SIMILAR CLEANING
TOOLS THAT WILL MECHANICALLY ABRADE THE COATING SURFACE. ALWAYS TEST
A SMALL INCONSPICUOUS AREA FIRST.
ALWAYS CLEAN YOUR TRAILER IN THE SHADE OR ON A CLOUDY DAY WHEN THE
ALUMINUM SKIN IS COOL. Use soft rags or wash mitts always moving lengthwise with the grain of the
trailer. NEVER rub hard on the coating. Oil, grease, dust and dirt may be removed by washing with a 5%
solution in water of commonly used commercial and industrial detergents. Cleaning should be followed by
a thorough clean water rinse. Drying the unit with a chamois or a soft cloth may prevent spots and streaks.
WHEN WASHING OR WAXING YOUR TRAILER, ALWAYS WIPE "WITH" THE GRAIN OF THE
METAL.
After cleaning and drying, a good grade of nonabrasive automotive paste or liquid wax will increase the life
of the finish, especially in coastal areas where the finish is exposed to salt air or in polluted industrial areas.
It will also protect the shell from minor scratches and make subsequent cleaning easier.
It is important to remove sap, gum, resin, asphalt, etc. as soon as possible after they appear by washing and
waxing. Sunlight and time will bake-harden these materials making them almost impossible to remove
without heavy buffing. If a substance is found on the coating that cannot be removed by normal washing
procedures, Airstream recommends using DX 330 Acryli-Clean made by PPG Industries. Follow all
directions and warnings on the product container. Acryli-Clean should be used by trained personnel only,
using the proper equipment under controlled conditions. Use the Acryli-Clean as sparingly as possible to
remove glue, tar, and other similar substance. Rinse with cool water immediately after use.
To keep your trailer looking new, paint the “A’ frame, LPG tanks, and rear frame periodically.
The Limited option includes gold plated medallions. Use mild soap and water on a soft cotton cloth to
clean. Gold is a soft metal and will scratch, If that doesn’t not work, use a mild metal polish such as PEAK
METAL POLISH applying lightly with a clean soft cotton cloth.
It is recommended that the caulking and sealant used in external seams and joints such as end shell
segments and around window frames, light bezels, beltline and rub rail molding, etc. be checked regularly.
If this material has dried out and become cracked or checked, or if a portion has fallen out, it should be
replaced with fresh material to prevent possible rain leaks. Caulking and sealing material is available from
your Airstream dealer.
Precautions should be taken to prevent excessive sealant from getting on the coated surfaces. Remove
excessive sealant before it cures using DX 330 Acryli-Clean made by PPG Industries as explained above.

CAUTION: It may be possible for solvents other than those recommended to extract materials
from sealants that could stain the coated surface or could prove harmful to the sealants; therefore,
these possible effects must be considered. Test a small area first.

D-1

AIRSTREAM CLASSIC TRAILER OWNERS MANUAL
Main Door

CAUTION: When towing, the door lock and dead bolt must be secured. If it is not locked, the constant
vibration of travel may cause the door to open with possible damage.
Screen Door
The screen door secures to the main door by means of a slide bolt type latch. It can be operated
independently by releasing the slide bolt and swinging the screen door away from the main door.
Step
To operate the step, lift up on the latch bar and the step will drop down.

WARNING: Once the steps are lowered, press down on them to make sure they are
secure in their notches.

CAUTION: Never travel with step lowered or extended
Exterior Windows
The windows in your trailer are safety glass. To open: release the two lever locks at the bottom, lift up on
the two side operator handles until the window is in the desired position, and place the operators into one of
the three positioning slots on the side of the frame. To lock the windows reverse this position
Note: Some windows are designed as an emergency escape exits. The rubber Spline holding the screen in
place is looped so it can be pulled out in one swift motion.
You and all your family should practice escape procedures so they can be rapidly accomplished even in
total darkness.
WARNING: Never park your trailer so the escape windows cannot be easily used for emergency
exits.
Clean your trailer windows the same way you clean the windows in your home. Clean the seals with a
damp cloth or mild detergent every three to six months, taking care not to use strong solvents, as they will
damage the seals. A coat of natural silicone lubricant applied after the seal has dried will keep it flexible.
Spread the lubricant evenly with a brush or finger, working it into the surface.
This is a good practice for all rubber seals in your trailer. For replacement of a damaged window contact an
Airstream Service Center.
Your PLASTIC SCREENS are easy to maintain. Clean occasionally with a damp cloth.
Note: They will melt at the point of contact if touched by a cigarette.
Awnings
Complete instructions have been provided with your awning. You should make sure your traveling
companion is familiar with the operation of the awning. If a sudden wind should come up, or if high wind
is forecast, the awning should be retracted and stowed.

D-2

AIRSTREAM CLASSIC TRAILER OWNERS MANUAL
Chassis
The standard RECOMMENDED HITCH BALL HEIGHT for your Airstream is 18 ¾” on all models
except the slide outs which are 19.75”. If you plan long trips with the trailer heavily loaded you should
check your trailer, after loading, to determine the optimum height. To check, park the trailer on a level
surface and crank the front jack up or down until the measurement from the frame to the ground is the same
front and rear. Measure from the ground to the upper surface of the hitch ball coupler. Add one inch to this
figure when setting the ball height on the tow vehicle to allow for the suspension settling under the added
weight.

WARNING - ALWAYS OPEN LATCH HANDLE
BEFORE INSERTING BALL
OPERATION INSTRUCTIONS
1. To open - slide forward and pull up to open latch before inserting
ball.
2. Place coupler on ball of same diameter as coupler and of same or
greater capacity.
3. When ball is completely nested in socket, push top of latch handle
rearward until handle snaps into closed position. (Figure 2)
4. Extend jack to ground and lift car/trailer combination 2-4" to insure
coupler is securely attached to tow ball. Retract jack before towing.
5. Insert padlock through hole in handle for theft prevention.
POWER JACK
A switch located on the bottom of the housing operates the power jack.
When the jack is fully extended or retracted internal limit switches
automatically shut off the motor.
Should an electrical failure occur, remove the power head by loosening the two Allen set screws. The jack
post may now be operated manually by inserting the emergency handle into the coupling on top of the post.
Replacing Power Head
It is essential that the following procedure be used before the power head is replaced on the post.
1. With 12 volts connected, ground the power head to trailer "A" frame. Operate main switch in "post
retracting direction" until the motor stops automatically.
2. Using emergency handle, crank post clockwise by hand until fully retracted, then turn crank one turn
counterclockwise.
3. Replace head on post and make sure that drive pin is engaged with post coupler. Tighten Allen set
screws.

D-3

AIRSTREAM CLASSIC TRAILER OWNERS MANUAL
Maintenance
1. Every two years remove screws and cover and check grease condition. Use HMP grease similar to
lubricate 630AA and spread on gear teeth, Grease is not required on the nylon timing gears. No internal
lubrication of the post is required, but an occasional external application of a silicone or WD-40 spray
lubricant on the inner tube of the post when extended is permissible.
2. Before replacing the cover ensure that the plate and limit switch unit are located correctly.

3. Apply a little sealing compound around the mating surface of the gear cover and replace screws
tightening them diagonally. Check synchronization if head has been removed from the post.

4. A little penetrating oil on the Allen setscrews occasionally will help prevent corrosion and difficult
removal.

Note: Leave tow vehicle transmission in neutral when lifting both units. Dolly wheels are not
recommended. Always retract stabilizing jacks before using your Super Jack under load.
SUPER POWER JACK ASSEMBLY
1) Cover, Super Jack
2) Gear, fiber, Super Jack
3) Drive gear, Super Jack
4) Crank handle, manual, Super Jack
5) Bushing, bronze, Super Jack
6) Bushing, flange, Super Jack
7) Gear, pot/reed, Super Jack
8) Shaft, Super Jack
9) Micro switch, Super Jack
10) Bushing/bronze, 7/16, Super Jack
11) Limit switch assembly, Super Jack
12) Center plate, Super Jack
13) Switch, toggle, Super Jack
14) Motor, 12v, Super Jack
15) Drive gear assembly, Super Jack
16) Switch cover, Super Jack
17) Jack post, Super Jack
18) Foot, Super Jack

D-4

AIRSTREAM CLASSIC TRAILER OWNERS MANUAL
TIRES
Your trailer is equipped at the factory with name brand trailer tires. Airstream dealers cannot make
adjustments to tires. A dealer who handles that particular brand must do this. If you ever have tire problems
check the local telephone directory for the nearest dealer.
To get the maximum performance from your tires check the air pressure often, but only when the tires are
cool. Never bleed out air immediately after driving. Recommended tire pressures vary with tire type and
size. For pressures refer to the SPECIFICATION TABLE.

WARNING: It is also important to periodically check on the tightness of lug nuts. They
should he tightened to a torque of 85 ft. pounds on forged aluminum wheels. Care should he taken at
all times when handling the forged aluminum wheel because of possible damage to its appearance.
Try to park out of the sun whenever possible when in warm climates. In desert regions use tire covers to
prevent ultra-violet deterioration to tires.
To CHANGE A TIRE with a jack see the
label affixed to the underbelly to the rear of
the wheels. This label, says JACK with an
arrow and points to a plate riveted to the
mainframe rail where the jack head must be
placed. A flat tire may also be changed
without the aid of a jack. Drive the unit up
on a ramp 8’ wide, 6” high, and about 3 feet
long at its base. Position the good tire on the
ramp. This will raise the flat tire clear of the
ground.

WARNING: Never attempt to
change any tire without securely chocking
remaining wheels. Never position yourself
in a manner where a raised trailer can
come down on you if it should become
dislodged from a jack or ramp.
All tire and wheel assemblies are balanced at
the factory. Be sure to rebalance the tire and wheel assemblies each time a tire is changed.

WARNING: When removing aluminum-forged wheels from spindle, it is very important
to mark them to assure the wheel is placed in the same position of the drum when reinstalling. If the
aluminum-forged wheel is to be mounted on a different drum it is important to sand all loose
corrosion from the mating surfaces.

D-5

AIRSTREAM CLASSIC TRAILER OWNERS MANUAL
In an emergency remove the flat tire. The independent suspension Of the Rubber torsion Axle allows four
or six wheel units to be safely towed on three or five wheels for a short distance (100 miles maximum) and
only at a low speed (30 MPH).
Be especially cautious in crossing holes or dips in the road. Under these circumstances it is good practice to
set your rear view mirrors so that you can observe your tires at all time.
Tips on Tire Care
Any tire, no matter how well constructed, may fail in use as a result of punctures, impact damage, improper
inflation or other conditions resulting from use. Tire failures may create a risk of property damage or
personal injury. To reduce the risk of tire failure we strongly recommend the following:
1. Check the pressure in your tires, including your spare, at least monthly when the tires are cool (after the
vehicle has stopped three hours and then driven less than one mile.) Do not reduce pressure when tires are
hot. Use a tire gauge to check pressure and maintain it at the recommended level.
2. Never overload your tires. The maximum load carrying capability of your tires is molded on the sidewall
of the tire.
3. Check your tires frequently for scrapes, bulges, separations, cuts or snags resulting from use. See your
tire dealer immediately if any such condition is discovered.
4. Never operate your vehicle in excess of lawful speeds or the maximum speeds justified by driving
conditions, or in excess of speeds recommended for the tire you are using.

5. Make every effort to avoid running over objects that may damage the tire through impact or cutting, such
as chuckholes, glass, metal, etc.

6. Never drive on smooth tires. Tires should be removed when 2/32nds inch of tread depth remains. In most
states it is illegal to drive with less than 2/32nds inch remaining tread depth.

D-6

AIRSTREAM CLASSIC TRAILER OWNERS MANUAL
TIRE ROTATION
(10,000-mile intervals)

SPARE TIRE
The spare tire for Airstreams is stored under the front of the trailer. The front handle of the tire carrier is a
one-inch tube protruding out from under the front A-frame on the curbside. It is secured by a bracket and
bolt along the inside of the A frame rail. Removing the bolts allows the front on the tire carrier to be
lowered and the spare tire removed.

D-7

AIRSTREAM CLASSIC TRAILER OWNERS MANUAL
AXLE AND RUNNING GEAR ASSEMBLY
Each Airstream RUBBER TORSION axle is aligned during manufacturing, and double-checked on a
random basis. Alignment after delivery is the customer's responsibility.
Hitting chuck holes or rough railroad tracks while going straight will only cause misalignment after the tire
has been struck many repetitive times. Of course, a deep enough hole can affect the alignment immediately.
The worse culprit is a curb because they are normally struck at an angle. Surprisingly rear axles are
occasionally damaged when people are attempting to park beside a curb and are backing up their trailer.
As you look under your trailer is it normal for the axle to be bent up in the middle. This bend is how the
camber is obtained.
Toe-in is built into the axle by very slight bends in the axle tube on each end.
If tire wear ever indicate misalignment check with your dealer for the nearest location having the proper
equipment.

CAUTION: Never allow heat to he applied to the axle tube since the rubber providing the spring
torsion action will be severely damaged.
Rubber torsion Axle Alignment Specifications
Toe-In each side 1/16"
Tolerance 1/16" + or Camber each side ¾ degrees positive
Tolerance ¾ degrees + or Wheel Bearing Maintenance
1. Jack trailer at marked jack location pad behind axle on mainframe.
2 Remove hubcap or spindle cover, wheel and tire.
3. Remove cotter pin.
4. Remove dust cap.
5. Remove spindle nut and washer.
6. Remove bearings, hub and rotor.
7. Lay down hub and rotor with inside grease seal down. Knock out inner bearing and grease seal using
wood or plastic dowel and hammer.
8. Clean all parts thoroughly with kerosene.
9. Check all bearings and races for chips or roughness of any kind. Any damaged component must be
replaced.
10. Pack bearing with a good grease (No 2 grade-265 ASTM penetration or equivalent).
11. Install inner bearing.
12. Install new grease seal in hub or rotor using wooden or rawhide mallet.
13. Install hub and drum on spindle.

D-8

AIRSTREAM CLASSIC TRAILER OWNERS MANUAL
14. Install outer bearing.
15 Install washer and spindle nut.
16. While rotating the wheel, tighten the spindle nut with a 12" wrench until there is a slight tension. Then
back off one notch and install cotter pin. There should now be from .001" to .010" endplay in hub. If not,
back off one notch.
17. Check and retighten the lug bolts, if necessary, every 50 miles for the first 200 miles of travel. They
should be tightened to torque of 85 ft. lbs.
When greasing bearings by hand, place a glob of grease in
the palm of one hand and push the large end of the bearing
down into the grease (see illustration). Keep turning the
bearing around and forcing it down through the grease
until the grease is extruded up through the opposite end.
Wipe the extra grease in your hand around the outside of
the bearing. It's not necessary to fill the hub and dust cap
with grease.

AXLE AND RUNNING GEAR ASSEMBLY

1. Rubber torsion Axle
2. Unicast Hub and Drum
3. Valve Stem
4. Wheel
5. Brake Set
6. Lug Nuts
7. Shock Absorber
8. Shock Absorber Bushing
9. Dust Cover
10. Outer Bearing
11. Inner Bearing
12 Grease Seal
13. Spindle Cover
14 Retainer Bearing
15. Nylon Bushing

D-9

AIRSTREAM CLASSIC TRAILER OWNERS MANUAL
ELECTRIC BRAKES
A CONTROLLER installed in your tow vehicle will synchronize the trailer brakes with your car brakes. It
is designed to apply the trailer brakes whenever the tow vehicle brakes are applied.

TYPICAL ELECTRONIC CONTROLLER

ELECTRONIC CONTROLLERS are inertially
activated. The controller senses deceleration and
generates an output, which reflects the inertia
sensed. When you are stationary, the controller
does not apply the brakes unless the manual slide bar is activated.
NOTE: Study all material provided with your particular brake control. If you don't understand the
information, have the installer explain the information to you or call the manufacturer of the controller.
In THE EVENT OF AN ACCIDENTAL SEPARATION of the tow car and trailer, the BREAKAWAY
SWITCH will set and lock the trailer brakes for a sufficient length of time to stop the trailer. The switch is
activated when the wire attached to it and to the car pulls out the small pin in the front of the unit. THIS
PIN SHOULD BE PULLED OUT, LUBRICATED WITH LIGHT HOUSEHOLD OIL AND REPLACED
EVERY 90 DAYS.
To prevent corrosion within the breakaway switch, pull the switch's pin straight forward and spray the
inside of the switch through the hole with an electric contact cleaner (such as Spra- Kleen) and reinsert the
pin. A drop of light household oil on the groove near the base of the pin will allow the pin to operate freely.
WHEN THE TRAILER IS CONNECTED TO THE TOW CAR, THE BREAKAWAY SWITCH LOOP
SHOULD BE ATTACHED TO THE PERMANENT FRAME OF YOUR HITCH. When disconnecting
trailer from tow vehicle remove wire loop from the frame. DO NOT REMOVE THE PIN FROM THE
SWITCH FOR AN EXTENDED PERIOD OF TIME BECAUSE THIS WILL APPLY THE TRAILER
BRAKES AND POSSIBLY DAMAGE THE BRAKE MAGNETS AND RUN THE BATTERY DOWN.

CAUTION: Do not use breakaway switch for parking brake.

D-10

AIRSTREAM CLASSIC TRAILER OWNERS MANUAL
HOW ELECTRIC
BRAKES WORK
The electric brakes on your
trailer are similar to the drum
brakes on your automobile.
The basic difference is that
your automotive brakes are
actuated by hydraulic pressure
while your electric trailer
brakes are actuated by an
electromagnet. With all of the
brake components connected
into the system, the brakes will
operate as follows: (See
Figure A).
When electrical current is fed
into the system by the
controller, it flows through the
electro- magnets in the brakes.
The high
capacity
electromagnets are energized
and are attracted to the rotating
armature surface of the drums,
which moves the actuating
levers in the direction that the
drums are turning. The
resulting force causes the
actuating cam block at the
shoe end of the lever to push
the primary shoe out against
the inside surface of the brake
drum. The force generated by
the primary shoe acting
through the adjuster link then
moves the secondary shoe out
into contact with the brake
drum.
Increasing the current flow to
the electromagnet causes the
magnet to grip the armature surface of the brake drum more firmly. This results in increasing the pressure
against the shoes and brake drums until the desired stop is accomplished.

D-11

AIRSTREAM CLASSIC TRAILER OWNERS MANUAL
HOW ELECTRIC BRAKES HELP
Electrically actuated brakes have several advantageous features over other brake actuation systems.
1. They can be electrically adjusted to provide the correct braking capability for varying road and load
conditions.
2. They can be modulated to provide more or less braking force, thus easing the brake load on the towing
vehicle.
3. They have relatively no lag time from the moment the tow vehicle s brakes are actuated until the trailer
brakes are actuated.
4. They provide a separate braking system to that of the tow vehicle, which can be of benefit in the event of
tow vehicle brake failure.

HOW TO USE YOUR ELECTRIC BRAKES PROPERLY
Your trailer brakes are designed to work in synchronization with your tow vehicle brakes. Never use your
tow vehicle or trailer brakes alone to stop the combined load.
Your trailer and tow vehicle will seldom have the right amperage flow to the brake magnets to give you
comfortable, safe braking unless you make proper brake system adjustments. Changing trailer load and
driving conditions as well as uneven alternator and battery output can mean unstable current flow to your
brake magnets. It is therefore imperative that you maintain and adjust your brakes as set forth in this
manual, use a properly modulated brake controller, and perform the synchronization procedure noted
below.
In addition to the synchronization adjustment detailed below, electric brake controllers provide a
modulation function that varies the current to the electric brakes with the pressure on the brake pedal. It is
important that your brake controller provide approximately 2 volts to the braking system when the brake
pedal is first depressed and gradually increase the voltage to 12 volts as brake pedal pressure is increased. If
the controller "jumps" immediately to a high voltage output, even during a gradual stop, then the electric
brakes will always be fully energized and will result in harsh brakes and potential brake lockup.
Proper synchronization of tow vehicle to trailer braking can only be accomplished by road testing. Brake
"lockup, grabbiness, or harshness" is quite often lack of synchronization between the tow vehicle and the
trailer being towed, too high of a threshold voltage (over 2 volts), or under adjusted brakes.
There are two synchronization adjustments available
1. System Resistor - regulates the maximum braking power of the trailer brakes.
2. Brake Controller - controls the tow vehicle brake line pressure at which the controller will begin to pass
current to the trailer brakes.
Before any synchronization adjustments are made, your trailer brakes should be burnished-in by making
10-12 full stops from approximately 20 mph. This allows the brake shoes and magnets to slightly "wear-in"
to the drum surfaces.

D-12

AIRSTREAM CLASSIC TRAILER OWNERS MANUAL
TO SYNCHRONIZE:
Start by making sure the trailer brakes are properly adjusted. Set the System Resistor in the middle of the
coil and the Controller adjustment near the center of its setting.

CAUTION: BEFORE MAKING ROAD TESTS, MAKE SURE THE AREA IS CLEAR OF
VEHICULAR AND PEDESTRIAN TRAFFIC.
Make hard stops from 20 mph on a dry paved road free of sand and gravel. If the trailer brakes lock and
slide, add more resistance to the circuit with the System Resistor. If they do not slide, take resistance out of
the circuit. Adjust the resistor just to the point of brake lockup and wheel skid.
Make a number of 30 mph hard stops to check braking at this speed. Turn the Controller adjustment in the
direction for more braking if the trailer brakes lag behind the tow vehicle. If the trailer brakes come in
ahead of the tow vehicle brakes, turn the Controller adjustment in the opposite direction. For best braking
performance, it is recommended that the Controller be adjusted to allow the trailer brakes to come in just
slightly ahead of the tow vehicle brakes. When proper synchronization is achieved there will be no
sensation of the trailer jerking or "pushing" the tow vehicle during braking.
When this adjustment is complete, make a hard stop or two from 20 mph to check for wheel lockup and
whether further fine-tuning of the System Resistor is required.
GENERAL MAINTENANCE
BRAKE ADJUSTMENT
Brakes should be adjusted (1) after the first
200 miles of operation when the brake
shoes and drums have "seated", (2) at
3000-mile intervals, (3) or as use and
performance requires. The brakes should
be adjusted in the following manner:
1. Jack up trailer and secure on adequate
capacity jack stands. Follow trailer
manufacturers recommendations for lifting
and supporting the unit. Check that the
wheel and drum rotates freely.
2. Remove the adjusting hole cover from
the adjusting slot on the bottom of the
brake backing plate.
3. With a screwdriver or standard adjusting
tool rotate the star wheel of the adjuster
assembly to expand the brake shoes.
(NOTE: With drop spindle axles a
modified adjusting tool with an 80 degrees
angle should be used. Sears Craftsman #
4736 or K-D #295 is recommended.)
Adjust the brake shoes out until the
pressure of the linings against the drum makes the wheel very difficult to turn.
4. Then rotate the star wheel in the opposite direction until the wheel turns freely with a slight lining drag.
5. Replace the adjusting hole cover and lower the wheel to the ground.
6. Repeat the above procedure on all brakes.

CAUTION: NEVER CRAWL UNDER YOUR TRAILER UNLESS IT IS RESTING ON
PROPERLY PLACED JACK STANDS.

D-13

AIRSTREAM CLASSIC TRAILER OWNERS MANUAL
BRAKE CLEANING, INSPECTION AND LUBRICATION
Your trailer brakes must be inspected and serviced at yearly intervals or more often as use and performance
requires. Magnets and shoes must be changed when they become worn or scored thereby preventing
adequate vehicle braking.
Cleaning and Inspection
Clean the backing plate, magnet arm, magnet, and brake shoes. Make certain that all the parts removed are
replaced in the same brake and drum assembly. Inspect the magnet arm for any loose or worn parts. Check
shoe return springs, hold down springs, and adjuster springs for stretch or deformation and replace if
required.

CAUTION: ASBESTOS DUST HAZARD
SINCE MOST BRAKE SHOE FRICTION MATERIALS NORMALLY CONTAIN ASBESTOS,
CERTAIN PRECAUTIONS NEED TO BE TAKEN WHEN SERVICING BRAKES.
1. AVOID CREATING OR BREATHING DUST.
2. AVOID MACHINING, FILING, OR GRINDING THE BRAKE LININGS.
3. DO NOT USE COMPRESSED AIR OR DRY BRUSHING FOR CLEANING. (DUST
CAN BE REMOVED WITH A DAMP BRUSH.)
Brake Lubrication

Before reassembling apply a light film of Lubricate or similar grease on the brake anchor pin, the actuating
arm bushing and pin, and the areas on the backing plate that are in contact with the brake shoes and magnet
lever arm. Apply a light film of oil on the actuating block mounted on the actuating arm.

CAUTION: DO NOT GET GREASE OR OIL ON THE BRAKE LININGS OR DRUMS
MAGNETS:
Your electric brakes are equipped with high quality electromagnets that are designed to provide the proper
input force and friction characteristics. Your
magnets should be inspected and replaced if
worn unevenly or abnormally. As indicated
in the diagram a straightedge should be used
to check wear.
Even if wear is normal as indicated by your
straightedge the magnets should be replaced
if any part of the magnet coil has become
visible through the friction material facing of the magnet. It is also recommended that the drum armature
surface be re-faced when replacing magnets. (See Brake Drum Section) Magnets should also be replaced in
pairs (both sides of an axle). Use only genuine Dexter replacement parts when replacing your magnets.

D-14

AIRSTREAM CLASSIC TRAILER OWNERS MANUAL
SHOES AND LININGS
A simple visual inspection of your brake linings will tell if they are usable. Replacement is necessary if the
lining is worn thin (1/16" or less), contaminated with grease or oil, or abnormally scored or gouged. It is
important to replace both shoes on each brake and both brakes of the same axle. This is necessary to retain
the "balance" of your brakes.
TROUBLE SHOOTING
Most brake malfunctions that cannot be corrected by either brake adjustment or synchronization
adjustments can generally be traced to electrical system failures. Mechanical causes are ordinarily obvious,
i.e. bent or broken parts, worn out linings or magnets, seized lever arms or shoes, scored drums, loose parts,
etc. Electrically, a voltmeter and ammeter are essential for proper troubleshooting
HOW TO MEASURE VOLTAGE
System voltage is measured at the magnets by connecting the voltmeter to the two magnet lead wires at any
brake. This may be accomplished by using a pin probe inserted through the insulation of the wires dropping
down from the chassis or by cutting the wires. The engine of the towing vehicle should be running when
checking the voltage so that low batteries will not affect the readings.
Voltage in the system should begin at 0 volts and, as the controller bar is slowly actuated, should gradually
increase to about 12 volts. This is referred to as modulation. No modulation means that when the controller
begins to apply voltage to the brakes it applies an immediate high voltage, which causes the brakes to apply
instantaneous maximum power.
The threshold voltage of a
controller is the voltage applied
to the brakes when the controller
first turns on. The lower the
threshold voltage the smoother
the brakes will operate. Too high
of a threshold voltage (in excess
of 2 volts as quite often found in
heavy duty controllers) can cause
grabby harsh brakes.
HOW
TO
AMPERAGE

MEASURE

System amperage is the
amperage being drawn by all
brakes on the trailer. The engine of the towing vehicle should be running when checking amperage. One
place to measure system amperage is at the BLUE wire of the controller, which is the output to the brakes.
The BLUE wire must be disconnected and the ammeter put into the line. System amperage draw should be
as noted in the table following. Make sure your ammeter has sufficient capacity and note polarity to prevent
damaging your ammeter. If a resistor is used in the brake system it must be set at zero or by-passed
completely to obtain the maximum amperage reading.

D-15

AIRSTREAM CLASSIC TRAILER OWNERS MANUAL
Individual amperage draw can be measured by inserting the ammeter in the line at the magnet you want to
check. Disconnect one of the magnet lead wire connectors and attach the ammeter between the two wires.
Make sure that the wires are properly reconnected and sealed after testing is completed.
By far, the most common electrical problem is low or no voltage and amperage at the brakes.
Common causes of this condition are:
1. Poor electrical connections.
2. Open circuits.
3. Insufficient wire size.
4. Broken wires.
5. Blown fuses. (Fusing of brakes is not recommended).
6. Improperly functioning controllers or resistors.
Another common electrical problem is shorted or partially shorted circuits (indicated by abnormally high
system amperage). These are occasionally the most difficult to find.
Possible causes are:
1. Shorted magnet coils.
2. Defective controllers.
3. Bare wires contacting a grounded object.
Finding the system short is a matter of isolation. If the high amperage reading drops to zero by unplugging
the trailer, then the short is in the trailer. If the amperage reading remains high with all the brake magnets
disconnected, the short is in the trailer wiring.
All electrical troubleshooting procedures should start at the controller. Most complaints regarding brake
harshness or malfunction are traceable to improperly adjusted or functioning controllers. See your
controller manufacturer's data for proper adjustment and testing procedures. If the voltage and amperage is
not satisfactory, proceed on to the connector and then to the individual magnets to isolate the problem
source. 12 volts output at the controller should equate to 10.5 volts minimum at each magnet. Nominal
system amperage at 12 volts with cold magnets, system resistor at zero and controller at maximum gain
should be as detailed in the following chart:

BRAKE SIZE
10 x 2 1/4
12 x 2

AMPS/ MAGNET
3.0
3.0

TWO BRAKES
6.0
6.0

FOUR BRAKES
12.0
12.0

NOTE: THESE AMPERAGE LEVELS WILL DROP AS THE MAGNETS HEAT UP.

D-16

SIX BRAKES
18.0
18.0

AIRSTREAM CLASSIC TRAILER OWNERS MANUAL
TROUBLE SHOOTING GUIDE
SYMPTOM
CAUSES
No
Open circuits
Brakes
Severe under adjustment
Faulty controller
Short circuits
Weak
Grease or oil on magnets or linings
Brakes
Corroded connections
Worn linings or magnets
Scored or grooved brake drums
Improper synchronization
Under adjustment
Glazed linings
Overloaded trailer

REMEDIES
Find & correct
Adjust brakes
Test & correct
Find & correct
Clean or replace
Clean and correct cause of corrosion
Replace
Machine or replace
Correct
Adjust brakes
Re-burnish or replace
Correct
Adjust
Correct
Test & Correct
Replace components
Machine or replace
Adjust system resistor and synchronize

Locking
Brakes

Under adjustment
Improper synchronization
Faulty controller
Loose, bent, or broken brake components
Out of round brake drums
Insufficient wheel load

Intermittent
Brakes

Faulty controller
Broken wires
Loose connections

Brakes pull
To one side

Incorrect adjustment
Grease or oil on linings or magnet
Broken wires
Bad connections

Harsh
Brakes

Under adjustment
Improper synchronization
Improper controller
Faulty controller
Under adjustment
Lack of lubrication
Broken brake components
Incorrect brake components

Adjust
Correct
Change
Test & Correct
Adjust brakes
Lubricate
Replace component
Correct

Surging
Brakes

Grease or oil on linings or magnet
Out of round or cracked brake drums
Faulty Controller

Clean or replace

Dragging
Brakes

Over Adjustment
Out of round brake drums
Incorrect brake components
Loose, bent, or broken brake components
Faulty breakaway switch
Loose wheel hearing adjustment
Bent spindle

Readjust
Machine or replace
Replace
Replace
Repair or Replace
Adjust
Replace

Noisy
Brakes

Test & correct
Repair or replace
Find & repair
Adjust
Clean or replace
Find & repair
Find & repair

D-17

Machine or replace
Test & correct

AIRSTREAM CLASSIC TRAILER OWNERS MANUAL
HUB REMOVAL
Whenever the hub equipment on your axle must be removed for inspection or maintenance the following
procedure should be utilized.
1. Elevate and support the trailer unit per manufacturers' instructions.
2. Remove the wheel.
3. Remove the grease cap by carefully prying progressively around the flange of the cap. If the hub is an oil
lube type then the cap can be removed by unscrewing it counter- clockwise while holding the hub
stationary.
4. Remove the cotter pin from the spindle nut or, in the case of E-Z Lube versions, bend the locking tang to
the free position.
5. Unscrew the spindle nut (counter-clockwise) and remove the spindle washer.
6. Remove the hub from the spindle, being careful not to allow the outer bearing cone to fall out. The seal
will retain the inner bearing cone.
BRAKE DRUM INSPECTION
There are two areas of the brake drum that are subject to wear and require periodic inspection. These two
areas are the drum surface where the brake shoes make contact during stopping and the armature surface
where the magnet contacts.
The drum surface should be inspected for excessive wear or heavy scoring. If worn more than .020"
oversized, or the drum has worn out of round by more than .015”, then the drum surface should be turned.
If scoring or other wear is greater than .090", the drum must be replaced. When turning the drum surface
the maximum re-bore diameter is as follows:
10" Brake Drum- 10.090"
12" Brake Drum- 12.090”
The machined inner surface of the brake drum that contacts the brake magnet is called the armature surface.
If the armature surface is scored or worn unevenly it should be refaced to a 120 micro-inch finish by
removing not more than .030" of material. To insure proper contact between the armature face and the
magnet face, the magnets should be replaced whenever the armature surface is refaced and the armature
surface should be refaced whenever the magnets are replaced.
NOTE: IT IS IMPORTANT TO PROTECT THE WHEEL BEARING BORES FROM METALLIC
CHIPS AND CONTAMINATION WHICH RESULT FROM DRUM TURNING OR ARMATURE REFACING OPERATIONS. MAKE CERTAIN THAT THE WHEEL BEARING CAVITIES ARE CLEAN
AND FREE OF CONTAMINATION BEFORE REINSTALLING BEARINGS AND SEALS. THE
PRESENCE OF THESE CONTAMINANTS WILL CAUSE PREMATURE WHEEL BEARING
FAILURE.

D-18

AIRSTREAM CLASSIC TRAILER OWNERS MANUAL
INTERIOR
The interior of all Airstream trailers has been designed for comfort, convenience, durability and
appearance. How you use it and how you take care of it naturally depends on you. However, if you learn to
operate the interior components and take care of them and the trailer properly, this knowledge will add to
your pleasure as well as the long life of your trailer.
All materials should be professionally dry cleaned to remove any overall soiled condition. However, these
materials may be spot cleaned using the cleaning code instructions as listed. Sample swatches are furnished
to our dealers. The dealer will be able to give you the name of the fabrics used in your particular trailer.
Each swatch will show the cleaning code in parenthesis.
Upholstery
The following are the cleaning code instructions for the various fabrics used in the Airstream trailers:
Code WS
Fabric Care: Spot clean this fabric either with a mild solvent or water based cleaning agent. When using a
solvent or dry cleaning product follow instructions carefully and clean only in a well-ventilated room.
Avoid any product, which contains highly toxic carbon tetrachloride. You may also use an 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.
Code S
Fabric Care: Spot clean, using a mild water free solvent or dry cleaning product. Carefully follow
instructions on such product. Clean only in a well-ventilated room. Avoid any product containing carbon
tetrachloride, which is highly toxic. Pretest small area before proceeding. Use professional furniture cleaner
when an overall soiled condition is reached.
Code W
Fabric Care: Spot clean, using the foam only from water based cleaning agent such as mild detergent or
non-solvent upholstery shampoo product.
Apply foam with a soft brush in a circular motion. Vacuum when dry. Pretest small area before proceeding.
Use professional furniture cleaner when an overall soiled condition is reached.
The manufacturer of the fabrics designed the above code.
Leather
Clean leather fabrics with standard products used for that purpose. Follow instructions on the cleaning
products container.

CAUTION:

Never remove cushion cover for separate dry cleaning or washing. Any tumble
cleaning method can destroy the backing, shrink or otherwise damage upholstery fabric.

WARNING: Keep your furniture and family safe from fires caused by careless smoking.
Do not smoke when drowsy. Remove immediately any flowing ash or a lighted cigarette, which falls
on furniture. Smoldering smoking material can cause upholstered furniture fires.

E-1

AIRSTREAM CLASSIC TRAILER OWNERS MANUAL
Draperies

CAUTION: All drapery materials and mattress covers must be professionally dry-cleaned.
Unsnapping from the wall, removing a screw or pop rivet from the end of the curtain track, and sliding
them out remove draperies. The pop rivets are removed by drilling through the head with a 1/8" drill bit.
To prevent damage to the draperies while traveling, the VENETIAN TYPE BLINDS should be lowered,
secured at the bottom and the slats turned vertically.
Carpet
The carpet can be cleaned with any good commercial carpet cleaner, or with a detergent and water. BE
CAREFUL NOT TO SOAK THE CARPET WITH WATER.
Counter Area
The counter areas around the sink are of a high-pressure laminate or Corian and can be cleaned with soap
and water, or you can use a common solvent on tough spots. Be sure no abrasive cleaner is used, as there is
the possibility it could scratch the surface. A protective pad should always be placed under hot utensils.
Sanding minor damaged areas can repair Corian counters. The color of the material is constant and not just
a surface coat.
Vinyl Covering
Damp wiping with mild detergent does routine cleaning. Using any of the automotive cleaners designed for
vinyl car seats and dashes can perform more thorough cleaning.
Sinks
The stainless steel galley sink can be cleaned with a commercial stainless steel cleaner available at most
stores.
The lavatory sink is a very dense material called KARRAN. In the unlikely event of it ever being stained
powdered cleansers such as Ajax/Comet may be used or even Scotch-Brite pads. The color is constant
through the thickness of the material,
Shower Stall
To clean your fiberglass shower stall unit use warm water and one of the stronger liquid detergents. Do not
use abrasive cleaners, they may scratch and dull the surface of your fiberglass unit. Stubborn stains can be
removed with solvents such as turpentine, paint thinner or acetone. Restore dulled areas by rubbing with an
automotive type liquid cleaner then put the soft slow back into your fiberglass unit with a light application
of liquid wax.
Lounges
To convert the front lounge to a bed first set the armrest cushions out of the way, lift up on the front of the
seat and pull it out. This will unhinge the sofa so it can be pushed flat into a bed.

E-2

AIRSTREAM CLASSIC TRAILER OWNERS MANUAL
Dinette
The dinette is made into a bed by rising up on the front of the table and folding the table leg up against the
bottom of the leaf. As the table is raised it will unhook from the upper wall brackets. Once it is unhooked it
can be pulled out and the wall hinge will let it be lowered on the supports of the dinette seats. The backrests
of the seats are placed over the table to complete the conversion.
Table
To open the folding table, lift into a horizontal position and pull the table leg down toward the vertical
position until it snaps into place, The leg is hinged at the front edge of the table and is held against the
bottom of the table with Velcro. To extend into the double leaf position, lift the table slightly so the leg
clears the carpet, and slide the leg and center support out toward the center of the trailer. The leaf then
unfolds and rests against the leg support.
Airstream recommends that during travel the table be left in the upright position.
Central Control Panel
The Deluxe Solid-State Central Control Panel monitors the two LP tanks, the fresh water tank, both the
black and gray water holding tanks, and the batteries. It also has a water pump switch, a range hood light
with switch, and range hood fan. To check the tank capacities depress the button-marked test and read the
status. Tank 1 is the black tank and tank 2 is the gray (drain water) tank.
Battery Condition Tester
The battery condition tester, used when not plugged into 110-volt power, will indicate whether the trailer
batteries are in good, fair or poor condition. When they show weak or bad condition you should take every
reasonable step to conserve power by using as few lights as possible and switching off appliances. The
battery should be charged as soon as practical with the tow vehicle charging system, or by connection to
110-volt power.
Water Pump Switch
The water pump switch operates the pump. Once the switch is turned on the pump will run until the water
pressure reaches about 65 psi. At this point an internal pressure switch will shut it off. When a faucet is
opened the water pressure will drop and the pump will start to run again. The water pump switch should be
turned off when the trailer is left unattended. Water pressure at some campgrounds may be low. The water
pump can be turned on to assist the city water hookup pressure. Be sure there is some water in the fresh
water tank. The pump will only use the water that is needed out of the tank to bring the pressure up to the
usual standard.
Bathroom Exhaust Fan
The bathroom exhaust fan is in the bathroom ceiling and is opened by pushing up on the handle running
across the fan opening.
Telephone Shower Head
The telephone showerhead is designed to give maximum flexibility in usage, and provides for water saving
techniques when using your trailer on self-containment. It can be held in the hand and moved about the
body. Normally the best water conservation procedure is to wet the entire body and then turn the water off.
Apply soap, lather thoroughly, and then rinse the soap off. The telephone showerhead is also used to fill the
tub for taking a bath. When you have finished using the shower be sure to shut the water off at the faucet.

E-3

AIRSTREAM CLASSIC TRAILER OWNERS MANUAL
Bath Area Remote Switches
Two remote switches for appliances are located on the bathroom wall. One is for the water pump, and
duplicates the pump switch on the central control panel. Either pump switch may be used to turn the pump
on or off at any time.
The second remote switch, with a red indicator, is for lighting the water heater. There is also a 110-volt
water heater switch to activate the 110-volt operation of the heater. Be sure there is water in the heater
before you use the 110-volt option.
Incandescent Light Fixtures
The light fixture has a switch located on the end of the fixture. Gently squeezing in the middle and pulling
down may remove the LENS. During cold weather it is a good idea to leave the light on a few minutes
prior to removing the lens.
Fluorescent Ceiling Lights & Light Bulbs
A wall switch just inside the door control lights in the forward section and a second wall switch in the
bedroom will control the bedroom ceiling light. Each light also has its own individual switch. The wall
must be turned on for the light switch to work.
Rotating one-quarter turn and bringing the bulb straight out of the fixture will remove fluorescent light
bulbs. This would be straight out on bed lights and straight down on ceiling lights.
Fresh Air Vents
A control handle operates the fresh air vents. Turning clockwise will raise the vent and at the maximum
extension, vents with fans will automatically turn on. For maximum air without fan, open until fan starts
and back up just enough to turn fan off. Turning counterclockwise will close the vent. Screens should be
removed for periodic cleaning.
Information on the optional high volume roof vent may be found in the appliance section of this book,
Storage
The kitchen cabinet should have the heaviest items on the bottom and lighter items overhead. After loading
you should have the skillets and can goods on the floor or bottom shelf, and the cereals and crackers in the
overhead rooflocker. Use the unbreakable type plates and saucers, and consider storing your dishtowels
around them. Better yet, use paper plates. Who wants to wash dishes when on a trip or vacation?
A good place to store heavy items is in the front drawer assembly. It is rated for a 100 lb. capacity, plus
adding weight to the front of the trailer may even improve towing slightly.
Clothes hung in wardrobes should be kept on hangers that snap over the clothes rods to keep them from
"jumping" off on rough roads. Evening dresses should be kept in the plastic bags like dry cleaning
businesses use. No matter how hard you try, if you travel a long dusty section of road the dust will work its
way into the trailer and soil clothes. Try to avoid large bulky coats. Layers of lighter clothing will usually
keep you warmer, are more versatile and easier to store.
Some additional storage is available under the shelf in the bottom of the wardrobe, but you must be sure it
is loaded so the drain lines and heat ducts can't be damaged.

WARNING: Keep flammable material away from the furnace.
Remember, heavy items should be stored low and toward the front, lighter items in the rear and overhead
cabinets.

E-4

AIRSTREAM CLASSIC TRAILER OWNERS MANUAL
SMOKE ALARM - FIREX MODEL B
IMPORTANT INFORMATION
SMOKE ALARM SAFETY CHECKLIST
1. Test your smoke alarm every week. To test the electronics, firmly depress the button. To test that smoke
reaches the sensor, blow smoke in a careful fire-safe manner into your smoke alarm.
2. Your smoke alarm will not work without power. Never shut off its power or remove the battery to quiet
the alarm.
FOR BATTERY-POWERED UNITS: When your smoke alarm "beeps" about once a minute, the battery is
weak. Immediately install a new battery correctly. Be sure to use only batteries specified in Owner's
Manual or on unit. Test unit after installing a new battery.
3. Clean and vacuum the openings on your smoke alarm once a month.
4. Do not open the smoke alarm or try to repair it. For replacement information see the WARRANTY in the
Owner's Manual.
5. Verify you have the proper number of smoke alarms in your home and the correct location for each one.
A smoke alarm will not respond well in an incorrect location.
6. If your smoke alarm has one or more of these special features, please note:
•

FALSE ALARM CONTROL (Model C): Pushing test/hush button reduces sensitivity for up to 15
minutes, minimizing nuisance alarms,

•

FLASHING LIGHT (Model E): Pushing test button turns flashing safety light on. Very thick
smoke may obscure light.

7. Smoke alarms have technical limitations and may not respond in all situations. FIRE PREVENTION is
your best safeguard.
8. For a replacement Owner's Manual or Safety Checklist, please indicate your unit model, include a selfaddressed stamped envelope and send to:
Maple Chase Company
2820 Thatcher Road
Downers Grove, Illinois 60515-4040
WEEKLY TESTING OF YOUR SMOKE ALARM
1. FOR A COMPLETE WEEKLY TEST OF THE ELECTRONICS AND THE SENSOR OPERATION,
FIRMLY DEPRESS THE TEST BUTTON ON THE COVER OF THE SMOKE ALARM FOR A FEW
SECONDS. The smoke LED (light emitting diode), which is the indicator light under the clear Push-toTest button, will blink once per second while the button is being pushed and the alarm is sounding. The
smoke alarm will stop sounding when you release the button.
2. If your smoke alarm has the False Alarm Control or Safety Light feature see "SPECIAL SMOKE
ALARM FEATURES" for further testing information.
3. IMPORTANT: Always test your smoke alarm upon returning from vacation, or any other time when no
one has been in your household or residence for several days.

E-5

AIRSTREAM CLASSIC TRAILER OWNERS MANUAL
4. If a smoke alarm is installed in a mobile home, test the smoke alarm after you remove the vehicle from
storage and before each trip.

WARNING: If your smoke alarm does not respond as described in any of the above tests,
check that a good battery is properly installed. If a good battery is properly installed, promptly
remove the unit, repack it and return it for repair or replacement.
TAKING CARE OF YOUR SMOKE ALARM
Your smoke alarm has been designed and manufactured to be as maintenance-free as possible. Here are a
few simple steps you must perform, in addition to the weekly tests described in the section "WEEKLY
TESTING OF YOUR SMOKE ALARM," to keep your unit in good working order.
•

The smoke alarm should be vacuumed monthly or more often if there is dust, dirt or kitchen
grease that can accumulate. Use a soft brush or wand attachment and vacuum all slots in the cover
and side. FOR YOUR SAFETY, you must properly clean and maintain your smoke alarm, since a
dirty or malfunctioning unit may fail to alarm or cause unwanted nuisance alarms.

•

If the unit is damaged or fails to operate properly, and you have checked that a good battery is
installed correctly, follow the directions in the section "WHERE TO SEND YOUR SMOKE
ALARM IF IT NEEDS SERVICE" for return. FOR YOUR SAFETY, DO NOT OPEN THE
SMOKE ALARM AND TRY TO REPAIR IT YOURSELF. While smoke alarms are economical
devices, they contain precision electronic components that are precisely calibrated. The
manufacturer must do repairs.

REPLACING THE BATTERY
The smoke alarm will "beep" once a minute for at least 30 days when the battery is weak. The battery must
immediately be replaced with a fresh one.
The battery should also be changed if it does not sound an alarm when tested. TO REPLACE THE
BATTERY:
1.

Check if the tamper resist locking pin is installed in the smoke alarm (see "USING THE TAMPER
RESIST LOCKING MECHANISM" section). If so, pull the pin completely out of the smoke
alarm using long-nose pliers.

2.

Remove the smoke alarm from the mounting bracket by twisting counterclockwise

3.

Replace old battery with a fresh one. If your smoke alarm has a safety light, the miniature lamp
operates on two AA batteries. (See recommended batteries below.)

4.

Check that battery connections are secure and the battery is secured in its compartment

5.

Test smoke alarm for proper operation (see "WEEKLY TESTING OF YOUR SMOKE ALARM"
section). The smoke alarm operates on a 9-volt battery. The normal battery operating life will be
one (1) year. The life of some batteries may be less.

6.

Firex smoke alarms sold with Ultralife long-life lithium batteries require replacement
approximately every ten (10) years or when the low battery signal sounds.

CAUTION: You should only use the batteries specified here or on the label of the unit.

E-6

AIRSTREAM CLASSIC TRAILER OWNERS MANUAL
For Models A, B, C, E and PB use: Eveready 216, 522 or 1222; Mallory MN1604; Duracell MN1604;
or Ultralife U9VL-J.
For Model E also use AA Heavy Duty for light power. The miniature lamp operates on two (2) AA
batteries. For replacement, use heavy-duty
or alkaline AA batteries: Eveready 1215,
E91, or Duracell M15HD, MN1500.

CAUTION: Do not use any type of
rechargeable batteries.
USING THE TAMPER RESIST
LOCKING MECHANISM
To make the smoke alarm somewhat tamper resistant, a "locking pin" has been provided in the base of the
unit. It will help deter a child or other individual from removing the smoke alarm from the bracket. See
Figure 7. The following directions can install this.
1. Remove the break- away locking pin from the unit by rocking pin back and forth.
2. Put the smoke alarm back on the mounting bracket. (See section "HOW TO INSTALL YOUR SMOKE
ALARM.")
3. Using long-nose pliers grab the head of the locking pin and insert into hole located on the side of the
smoke alarm. See Figure 8.
4. The Tamper Resist feature is now installed and complete.
To Remove:
5. Using long-nose pliers grasp the head of the locking pin and pull the pin completely out of the smoke
alarm.
6. The smoke alarm can now be removed from the mounting bracket with a counterclockwise twist.
SPECIAL SMOKE ALARM FEATURES
If your smoke alarm has one or more of these special features, read the following:
•

BLINKING LED LIGHT (Models B, C, E and PB): The indicator light under the Push-to Test
button blinks about once per minute to indicate the smoke alarm is receiving power.

WARNING: Very thick smoke may obscure the light.

E-7

AIRSTREAM CLASSIC TRAILER OWNERS MANUAL
LP GAS DETECTOR
In the kitchen area of your unit, approximately six inches above the floor, is the LP gas detector. LP gas is a
mixture of gases produced and sold commercially as a fuel for heating and cooking appliances. LP gas is
highly flammable and, as a result, can be explosive if ignited under certain circumstances. LP gas is heavier
than air and, if confined in a closed space, will accumulate close to the floor. When the LP gas
concentration in your unit exceeds 2000 PPM the detector will provide a visual and audible alarm by
sounding a buzzer and flashing the red LED two times per second.

WARNING Activation of this detector indicates the presence of LP gas, which can cause
an explosion and/or fire. This normally indicates a leak in the LP gas installation or a LP gas
appliance. Extinguish all open flames, open your windows and door and evacuate the unit
immediately. Do not activate any electrical switch. Turn off the LP at your gas bottle(s). DO NOT
RE-ENTER YOUR UNIT UNTIL A QUALIFIED REPAIR TECHNICIAN HAS CORRECTED
THE PROBLEM.
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.

WARNING It is not recommended that the detector be disconnected from the battery
during periods of storage. There is a small heater on the sensor of the device, which "burns" away
impurities in the air during periods of normal use. During periods when power is interrupted,
impurities can build up on the sensor. When power is returned to the detector the detector alarm
may activate 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 detector 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 check your system if you have any doubts.

E-8

AIRSTREAM CLASSIC TRAILER OWNERS MANUAL
FIRE EXTINGUISHER
The fire extinguisher just inside your forward door should have the charge checked on a regular basis.
Make sure your family, especially the cook, knows how to release the extinguisher storage bracket, and
how to properly operate the extinguisher. If you find the directions on the extinguisher unclear, check with
your local fire department for professional advice on its operation and use. We're sure they will be happy to
assist you and your family.
SAFETY:
Many things can be construed as safety related, but the most important is your common sense. If you
are careless with matches, cigarettes, flammable material or any other hazardous material, we are
sure you realize your potential for accidents is greatly increased.
EXTERIOR WINDOWS
The windows in your trailer are safety glass. To open: release the two lever locks at the bottom, lift up on
the two side operator handles until the window is in the desired position, and place the operators into one of
three positioning slots on the side of the frames. To lock the windows, reverse this procedure.
Note: Some windows are designed as emergency escape exits. The rubber spline holding the screen in
place is looped so it can be pulled out in one swift motion.
You and all your family should practice escape procedures so they can be rapidly accomplished even
in total darkness.

WARNING:

Never park your trailer so the escape windows cannot be easily used for

emergency exits.
These windows are cleaned in the same manner that ordinary windows are. Clean the seals with a damp
cloth or mild detergent every three to six months, taking care not to use a strong solvent, as it will damage
the seals. A coat of natural silicone lubricant applied after the seal has dried will keep it flexible. Spread the
lubricant evenly with a brush or finger, working it into the surface. This is a good practice for all rubber
seals in your Airstream. For replacement of a damaged window contact an Airstream Service Center or the
factory.
SCREENS
Your plastic screens are easy to maintain. Just clean them occasionally with a damp cloth.

Note: They will melt at the point of contact if touched by a cigarette.

E-9

AIRSTREAM CLASSIC TRAILER OWNERS MANUAL
NOTES

E-10

AIRSTREAM CLASSIC TRAILER OWNERS MANUAL
PLUMBING SYSTEM
LIQUID PETROLEUM GAS (LPG)
FILL VALVE
Your trailer is equipped with LP tank fill valves called "RV Type I Acme" connection. The large, green,
nylon swivel nut is a right hand thread and is designed for hand operation only.
The valve features an internal spring-loaded module that will not allow gas to flow from the cylinder until a
positive seal has been made at the connection. The valve outlet has 1-5/16" Acme threads on the outlet
exterior and female POL, left-handed threads on its interior. This feature allows for connection of the new
wrenchless, right-handed, Acme RV connection and still accommodates the standard left-handed POL
fittings used for filling propane cylinders.
The mating, green swivel nut and brass nipple also incorporates new features: the green nylon nut swivels
on a black bushing that is heat sensitive. Between 240 degrees F and 300 degrees F the bushing will yield
(melt) allowing the spring-loaded module in the valve to push the brass nipple back (approximately 1/4")
closing the module and stopping the flow of gas from the cylinder. Inside the brass nipple is a flow-limiting
device designed to sense excessive gas flow. If an excessive flow is sensed, the flow-limiting device shuts
the flow down to a maximum of 10 SCFH (Standard Cubic Feet per Hour) or less. This is also referred to
as the by-pass flow.
By-pass flow is extremely important in the proper operation of this connection. The flow-limiting device
may activate if the cylinder valve is opened quickly. When all appliances are off, the by-pass flow allows
the pressure downstream from the flow-limiting device to equalize. When pressure is equalized, the flowlimiting device will supply normal flow to the system. Equalization occurs in approximately 5 seconds and
in most cases goes completely unnoticed. If, however, an appliance is left on or there is a leak or open flow
in the system, the by-pass pressure will not be able to equalize and allow the flow-limiting device to reopen. Symptoms of this condition would be appliances that light but have lower than normal flame or
starve out from lack of gas, a substantial reduction in the flame when another appliance is operating, or
pilots that are difficult to light. If this should happen, the following steps should eliminate the condition:
1. Close LP cylinder valve.
2. Extinguish all flames and smoking materials
3. Be sure all gas appliances, including their pilot lights, are off.
4. Open LP cylinder valve slowly. DO NOT SNAP OPEN.
5. Wait at least 15 seconds before lighting appliances.
6. If operational difficulties continue, there may be a leak in the system. Immediately close the LP
cylinder valve and have the system inspected by a qualified RV service technician.
Again, make sure all appliances are off before opening propane cylinder valves.
Exception: when reconnecting a full cylinder to an auto changeover regulator it is not necessary to
shut off the appliances or close the valve of the cylinder already in service.

WARNING: LEAKING LP GAS MAY IGNITE CAUSING A FIRE OR EXPLOSION
WHICH COULD RESULT IN SERIOUS BODILY INJURY, PROPERTY DAMAGE, OR DEATH.
How long a full tank of gas will last is dependent on usage. In cold weather, when you are using the
furnace, large amounts of hot water, and are doing extensive cooking, you will naturally use more than you
will in warm weather when you may do limited cooking. On the average, with normal cooking and other
appliance use you can probably count on two to three weeks of service from each tank.

F-1

AIRSTREAM CLASSIC TRAILER OWNERS MANUAL
AUTOMATIC GAS REGULATOR
All models are equipped with an automatic gas regulator. Both tanks are connected to this regulator. Open
both tank valves completely, then close about 1/4 turn. This will allow you to easily check to see if valves
are open or closed.
When the gas is turned on it is drawn from only one tank at a time. When the tank being used is depleted
the regulator automatically switches to the full tank, An indicator in the regulator knob points toward, the
tank which was being used to give you a visual reminder when one tank is empty.
Note: The tank in use is not completely empty until the red warning flag is fully visible in the indicator
window. The empty tank can be removed for refilling without disturbing the tank being used.

WARNING: LP gas regulators must always be installed with the diaphragm vent facing
downward. Regulators that are not in compartments have been equipped with a protective cover.
Make sure that regulator vent faces downward and that cover is kept in place to minimize vent
blockage, which could result in excessive gas pressure causing fire or explosion.
CAUTION: The LPG bottles are securely mounted on the front "A" frame of your trailer. If these
bottles must be removed for service or replacement it is important that they be reinstalled correctly
in order to prevent any possibility of their falling off or becoming dislodged during travel.
LPG BOTTLES
The following step-by-step procedure gives you the proper method of removing and installing these bottles:
1. Turn the knob on your automatic regulator so the arrow points to the tank opposite the one to be
removed. Shut off the gas valve on the bottle to be removed.
2. Disconnect the rubber gas line at the bottle to be removed. (This fitting has a left hand thread and turns in
the opposite direction to most threaded fittings.)

3. Turn the large clamping "T"' handle counterclockwise until the hold down bracket is loose enough to
remove the bottle. If your trailer is equipped with a gas bottle cover the "T"' handle must be removed, and
then remove the cover before removing the bottle.
DO NOT REMOVE THE CENTER HOLD DOWN ROD.

F-2

AIRSTREAM CLASSIC TRAILER OWNERS MANUAL
To Install
1. Place the bottle in position on the "A” frame and bottle cross member so that it rests on the upper collar
of both bottles with the collar rims engaged in the grooves on the underside of the bracket. If your trailer is
equipped with a gas bottle cover it should be positioned over the bottles next. Make sure the hold down rod
projects up through the hole in the shroud center bracket.
2. Replace the "T" handle and tighten down until the bottles are held firmly in place.
3. Turn on gas shut off valves and test all fittings with a soap suds or detergent solution and watch for
bubbles.
If you have allowed both tanks to run out, air may have gotten into the lines. In this event, the air must be
forced out through the lines by gas pressure before you will be able to light the pilots. Hold a match to the
pilot of the appliance closest to the tanks until it lights and stays lit. Then move to the next closest, etc.
Twice a year, or after a long storage period, we suggest you take your unit in for a checkup and cleaning of
the gas operated appliances.
BASIC RULES FOR SAFETY

WARNING: Your LP tanks must be filled as directed by the tank manufacturer.
Instructions are located on a decal near the fill valve. The decal must not be defaced.
WARNING: Your LP tank must be, and can only be, placed in the proper position when
remounting on the front of the trailer. In any other position the base of the tank will not fit into the
recess.
WARNING: Use only the gas bottles furnished with your trailer. If replacement is
required it must be a bottle of the same size and design.
WARNING: The vent at the bottom of the regulator must be kept free of any
obstructions and must be pointed downward. A good habit is to check the vent each time a bottle is
removed for filling. It is especially important to check the vent if the trailer has not been used
regularly.
WARNING: Do not store LP containers within a vehicle. LP containers are equipped
with safety devices that vent gas should the pressure become excessive.
WARNING: Do not use cooking appliances for comfort heating. Cooking appliances need
fresh air for safe operation. Before operation open an overhead vent or turn on an exhaust fan and
open a window.
A warning label has been located in the cooking area to remind you to provide an adequate supply of
fresh air for combustion. Unlike homes, the amount of oxygen supply is limited due to the size of the
recreational vehicle; and, proper ventilation when using the cooking appliances will avoid dangers of
asphyxiation. It is especially important that cooking appliances not be used for comfort heating as
the danger of asphyxiation is greater when the appliance is used for long periods of time.
Continued next page

F-3

AIRSTREAM CLASSIC TRAILER OWNERS MANUAL
BASIC RULES FOR SAFETY

WARNING: 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.
WARNING: A warning label has been located near the LP gas container. This label
reads: DO NOT FILL CONTAINER (S) TO MORE THAN 80 PERCENT OF CAPACITY.
Overfilling the LP gas container can result in uncontrolled gas flow, which can cause fire or
explosion. A properly filled container will contain approximately 80 percent of its volume as liquid
LP gas.

WARNING: 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.

F-4

AIRSTREAM CLASSIC TRAILER OWNERS MANUAL

TYPICAL GAS LINE SYSTEM
1.

Connection, Water Heater

2.

3/8” Flare Coupler

3.

3/8” OD Copper Tubing

4.

Connect, Second Furnace

5.

5/8 x 3/8 x 3/8 Brass Tee

6.

5/8 OD copper Tubing

7.

Connection, Refrigerator

8.

5/8 x 5/8 x 3/8 Brass Tee

9.

Connection, Range

10. Grommet, Floor Level
11. Grommet, Underbelly
12. Connection, Front Furnace
13. Ground Lug
14. Connection, LP Regulator

F-5

AIRSTREAM CLASSIC TRAILER OWNERS MANUAL
WATER SYSTEM-SELF CONTAINED
Fill the water tank by opening the exterior access door and remove screw cap. A garden hose can now be
inserted. It's a good idea to let the water run through the hose for a short time to flush it out. Experienced
RVers usually fill their tanks with "home" water to avoid strange water that may be distasteful to them.
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.
Turn water heater by-pass valves, located in lavatory cabinet next
to water heater, to normal flow position. Shut off valve B - open
valves A and C. In some models the valves may be in a horizontal
pattern rather than the vertical shown in the illustration. Valve
operating sequence will be the same. Access to the valves in most
units is through the lavatory cabinet door; on others it will be
necessary to remove a drawer.
Open the hot side of the galley or lavatory faucet and turn on the
water pump switch located on the monitor panel. For some time
the open faucet will only sputter. This is because the water heater
is being filled and air is being pushed out through the lines. Once
the water heater is full a steady stream of water will come from the
faucet. Now open a cold faucet. It will sputter for a short time, but
will soon expel a steady stream. All other faucets can now be
opened until all air is expelled.
Once the system is filled with water and the faucets closed, the water pump will shut off. When a faucet is
opened the pump will come back on automatically. If the faucet is just barely open it is normal for the
pump to cycle on and off rapidly.
Water pressure at some campgrounds may be low on city water. The
water pump can be turned on to assist the city water hookup pressure.
Be sure there is some water in the fresh water tank. The pump will only
use the water that is needed out of the tank to bring the pressure up to
the usual standard.
WATER PUMP AND STRAINER
The water pump and strainer are located in the curbside wardrobe on
all models.
To clean strainer screen, first remove inlet connection from the pump
side of strainer. This will allow the intake side of the strainer to be rotated about 1/8 turn counter clockwise
and be removed. The screen part of the strainer will now be accessible for cleaning.
When reassembling only rotate the inlet side of the strainer until the stops are felt. The “O” ring performs
sealing and too much pressure will only break the strainer.

F-6

AIRSTREAM CLASSIC TRAILER OWNERS MANUAL
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. If you double the
solution, this concentration allows for contact time of one (1) hour.
6. When the contact time is completed, drain the tank. Refill with potable water and purge the plumbing of
all sanitizing solution.
NOTE: The sanitizing procedure outlined above is in conformance with the approved procedures of RVIA
ANSI Al19.2 and the U.S. Public Health Service.
Note: A petcock, visible between the tires, will drain the tank sufficiently for most purposes. Total drainage
may be achieved by removing the large Allen Head Plug located on the bottom of the tank. An access plate
must be removed to expose the plug.

F-7

AIRSTREAM CLASSIC TRAILER OWNERS MANUAL
CITY WATER HOOK-UP

The city water hook-up is found on the lower roadside of the trailer in the utility compartment. A short
piece of hose has been provided to extend the city water hookup.
Use a high-pressure hose of at least 1/2" diameter. It should be one that is tasteless, odorless and non-toxic
designed for RV use. The city water inlet is a standard garden hose thread. We suggest you carry two
lengths of hose. This way you have the ability to reach hookups further away than normal, plus you have a
spare hose should one fail or become damaged unexpectedly.
After hooking up the hose and turning on the city water valve provided in the park, slowly open a faucet.
There will be a lot of spurts and sputtering until all the air is expelled from the trailer system. If the water
heater is empty it will take some time before all the air is expelled and you get a steady flow of water at the
faucet. Once a steady flow is achieved at one faucet the others should be opened long enough to expel the
air in the lines going to them.
Water pressure at some campgrounds may be low. The water pump can be turned on to assist the city water
hookup pressure. Be sure there is some water in the fresh water tank. The pump will only use the water that
is needed out of the tank to bring the pressure up to the usual standard.
Your plumbing system has a built in pressure regulator to protect your lines and faucets from extremely
high pressures on some city water systems.
EXTERIOR WATER SERVICE
Also in the utility compartment is a hose connection with a shut-off valve. This is plumbed into the highpressure water system of the trailer. This is an ideal place to rinse the sand off your feet after going to the
beach, cleaning mud off your boots and hundreds of other messy jobs that are better done outside of your
trailer. During freezing weather this line should be drained. Shut off the valve under the lavatory and leave
the exterior valve open.
NOTE: Four valves are located in the lavatory cabinet. Three of these are used as the water heater by-pass
system as described in the winterizing section. The fourth valve is for the exterior water service.

F-8

AIRSTREAM CLASSIC TRAILER OWNERS MANUAL

BLACK TANK FLUSH
Also in the utility compartment is a water hose connector marked "black tank flush". To use, hook up a
hose and turn on full force. Within the tank a spray head with a multiple holed head will spray the interior
surface of the tank. The vacuum breaker and check valve will be located inside the trailer above the exterior
connection. In most models this will place them under the lavatory.
The gate valve should be closed for the first couple of minutes, and then opened to let the water out in a
rush. Repeat as needed.
BLACK TANK FLUSH ASSEMBLY

F-9

AIRSTREAM CLASSIC TRAILER OWNERS MANUAL
GALLEY FAUCET-MOEN PURETOUCH CLASSIC (Standard)
WATER FILTRATION SAFEGUARDS
Your Moen PureTouch® Classic Filtering Faucet System integrates carbon block filtration technology
designed by Culligan International into a faucet spout. This technology is fast and effective at reducing
contaminants commonly found in water and is certified by NSF® International. The PureTouch Filtering
Faucet System and installation must comply with State and Local laws and regulations. To ensure optimal
operation of your new Moen faucet, please read the following safeguards carefully.
MicroTech™ Filter Cartridges
• MicroTech filter cartridges will reduce:
Chlorine, Taste and Odor (MicroTech 400, 600)
Lead (MicroTech 400,600)
Cysts (Cryptosporidium, Giardia) (MicroTech 600)*
*The contaminants removed or reduced by this filter are not necessarily in your water.
• Do not use with water that is microbiologically unsafe or of unknown quality without adequate
disinfections before or after the system. Systems certified for cyst reduction may be used on
disinfected waters that may contain filterable cysts.
•

MicroTech filter cartridges are designed for replacement after dispensing 200 gallons of filtered
water. Water conditions and usage may affect filter life and water taste.

•

The electronic indicator will signal when filter replacement is necessary

•

Use only MicroTech 400 or 600 filter cartridges with the PureTouch Classic Filtering Faucet
System.

•

Filter flow rate = .4-.5 gpm at rated pressure (20 psi min. – 125 psi max.).

Water Temperature
• Minimum/Maximum faucet operating temperature = 40 degrees – 150 degrees F
• CAUTION: Do not filter water above 100degrees F.
MicroTech Filter Flushing Instructions
•

New MicroTech Filter Cartridge: Allow cold water to run through a new filter for 5 minutes to
flush out any loose carbon particles. Once these small black specks are washed out the filter is
ready for use.

•

Daily Use: Allow cold water to run through the filter for 10-15 seconds prior to first use. If the
filter has not been used for two days, run cold water through the filter for 60 seconds prior to use.

Questions
• If you have any questions please call Moen’s toll-free help lines:
1-877-DRINK-H20
Monday through Friday
1-877-374-6542
Saturday

8:00 a.m. to 8:00 P.M.
8:00 a.m. to 6:30 p.m.

F-10

AIRSTREAM CLASSIC TRAILER OWNERS MANUAL
PARTS DESCRIPTION

1. Solid Handle Body
2. Set Screw
3. Plug Button
4. Dome & Pivot Retainer Assembly
5. Cartridge Screw
6. Handle Adapter & Connector Assembly
7. Pivot Stop
8. Spout Retaining Nut
9. Bearing Washer
10. "D" Washer
11. Retainer Clip
12. 1225 Cartridge
13. Filter Cartridge
14. Filtering Appliance
15. Lower Spout Assembly
16. Threaded Shank
17. Supply Tubes (2)
18. Bottom Bearing Washer
19. ½ " Threaded Fitting
20. Deck Ring with Gasket
21. Deck Plate
22. Mounting Bracket
23. Mounting Nut
24. Designer Spray Head (Spray Models)
25. Hose Guide with Gasket (Side Spray
Models)
26. Spray Hose
27. Extended Locknut (Side Spray Models)
28. Swivel Nut (Spray Models)
29. Mounting Tool
30. Deck Plate (Spray in Deck Models)
31. Support Plate with Gasket

F-11

AIRSTREAM CLASSIC TRAILER OWNERS MANUAL
MICROTECH™ FILTER
INSTALLATION/REPLACEMENT
1. Install a new filter by wetting the outlet ports with
water and then inserting into the round filter ports on
the faucet head and pushing the filter and head
together. Both outlet ports must be fully inserted into
the filter ports.
2. Install the filter and faucet head assembly on to the
spout by wetting the faucet head o-ring seal and then
carefully sliding the free end of the filter into the spout.
The head will need to be initially turned approximately
½ turn counter clockwise from its normal position to
slip past the safety catch. Lock the head into place by
simultaneously pushing and twisting the head
clockwise. When properly installed the head will feel
secure, and will be correctly oriented on the spout.
3. Reset the filter life indicator by pushing the filter
button 3 times. Wait 10 seconds. You should not be
running water while resetting the filter life indicator
because the filter button will remain depressed, with
the first push as it switches to filter mode. The filter
life indicator has been correctly reset if a short series
of rapidly flashing green light occurs, indicating that
the new filter-flushing period has begun.
4. Flush the filter for 5 minutes before initial use.
Your new Moen faucet is now ready for normal use.

To replace filter:
1. Turn off the faucet. Remove the faucet head by
twisting it approximately ¼ turn counter clockwise to
unlock it. Gently pull the faucet head away from the
spout and twist it approximately another ¼ turn to get
the faucet head past the safety catch. The faucet head
and depleted filter (if one is installed) can now be
pulled completely out of the spout.
2. The filter is held to the faucet head by two outlet
ports, which connect into the head. Remove the old
filter by simply pulling it straight off. Discard the old
filter and install a new MicroTech 400 or 600 filter.
Note: The faucet will function correctly in unfiltered
stream mode with or without a filter installed. The
faucet will not function correctly in filter mode without a filter. If a filter is not installed and the filter
button in depressed, unfiltered water will flow from both the filtered water outlet and the stream outlet
aerator, and the filter button will not automatically stay depressed.
Use only Microtech 400 or 600 filter cartridges with the PureTouch Classic Filtering Faucet system. The
Microtech filters are high performance carbon block filters developed specifically for the PureTouch
system.

F-12

AIRSTREAM CLASSIC TRAILER OWNERS MANUAL
OPERATING INSTRUCTIONS
Controlling The Water
The PureTouch system has two options for water delivery, unfiltered stream and filtered water.
STREAM MODE: Unfiltered water in regular stream flow
When the water is turned on at the faucet, the spout will always begin operating in the regular stream mode.
FILTERED WATER MODE: Filtered water dispensed though the separate filtered water outlet.
Pressing the front filtered water button will divert water through the filter and dispense filtered water from
a separate outlet. To exit the filter mode, shut off the faucet.

CAUTION: Only filter cold water. Do not filter water above 100 degrees F.
Electronic Indicator
The flashing light on the electronic filter life indicator provides information regarding the performance of
the filter. The indicator provides you with information throughout the life of the filter to help communicate
the level at which it is performing.

Indicate Color

Performance

Amber & Green

A new filter must be flushed with cold water for 5 minutes after it is installed.
This procedure helps clean the filter of loose carbon particles.
Filter performing at optimum efficiency.

Green
Amber
Red

WARNING: Filter is ready for replacement.
(Approximately 16 gallons left.)
WARNING: Filter life is deleted, discard old filter and replace with a new
Microtech 400 or 600 filter.

*If fast red doesn't change to slow amber/green after memory has been reset, reset was not complete and
needs to be redone. Follow step 3 on the previous page.
A standard replaceable 3V lithium watch battery (2032) designed to last several years powers the electronic
indicator.
Battery Replacement
Follow filter replacement instructions to remove filter
appliance. Locate battery compartment drawer, pull out and
replace battery, positive side up.

F-13

AIRSTREAM CLASSIC TRAILER OWNERS MANUAL
TROUBLESHOOTING
PROBLEM: Water flows from both outlets, filter and unfiltered, when the filter button is pushed.
SOLUTION: No filter is installed. Install a filter.
PROBLEM: After installing a new filter, the filter life indicator still flashes red.
SOLUTION: Filter life indicator was not reset, or the attempt to reset the indicator did not work. Perform
reset sequence.
PROBLEM: Reversed Hot & Cold positions,
SOLUTION: HELPFUL HINTS: IT IS NOT NECESSARY TO SHUT OFF WATER SUPPLIES.
HANDLE SCREW REQUIRES A 7/64" HEX KEY WRENCH.

1. Remove plug button (3) from the handle by prying the button upwards from the
bottom center. If a tool is required, use something, which will not scratch the handle.
Remove set-screw (2), handle body (1), dome and pivot retainer assembly (4), cartridge
screw (5), handle adapter and handle connector assembly (6).
2. Turn cartridge stem around so that the notch is turned one half turn or 180 degrees.
3. Reinstall as follows: Be sure retainer clip (11) is present on cartridge stem and raised
edge of pivot stop (7) faces front. Note orientation of handle adapter & connector
assembly (6) in the exploded view. Completely tighten cartridge screw (5) to prevent
unwanted closure of faucet. Thread on dome clockwise until hand tight. Reinstall
handle body (1), set screw (2), and plug button (3).

PROBLEM: Faucet head is loose and water flows freely from between the head and spout.
SOLUTION: The head was not locked in place correctly. Reinstall the head and filter assembly.
PROBLEM: Slow or uneven water flow in filtered mode.
SOLUTION Filter outlet may be clogged.
1. Remove filter outlet nut, flush out carbon particles.
2.

Filter cartridge may be clogged with captured contaminants. Replace filter cartridge.
If problem persists call Moen Help line at:
1-877-DRINK-H20 (1-877-374-6542)

PROBLEM: Electronic display doesn't function
SOLUTION: Replace battery.
CARE AND MAINTENANCE
All that is needed to clean your faucet is a soft damp cloth. Moen does not recommend the use of scour
pads, cleansers or chemicals. The abrasive nature of these substances could damage the faucet's finish. A
non-abrasive car wax will help to protect the finish. DO NOT SUBMERGE OR PLACE FAUCET HEAD
IN DISHWASHER.

F-14

AIRSTREAM CLASSIC TRAILER OWNERS MANUAL
GALLEY FAUCET, MOEN PURETOUCH® (Option Included w/Limited Package)
1-800-374-6542
WATER FILTRATION SAFEGUARDS
Your Moen PureTouch® Filtering Faucet System integrates carbon block filtration technology designed by
Culligan International into a faucet spout. This technology is fast and effective at reducing contaminants
commonly found in water and is certified by NSF International. The PureTouch Filtering Faucet System
and installation must comply with State and Local laws and regulations. To ensure optimal operation of
your new Moen faucet, please read the following safeguards carefully.
MicroTech™ Filter Cartridges
• MicroTech filter cartridges will reduce:
Chlorine, Taste and Odor (MicroTech 5000, 3000, 1000)
Lead (MicroTech 5000,3000)
Cysts (Cryptosporidium, Giardia) (MicroTech 5000)*
*The contaminants removed or reduced by this filter are not necessarily in your water.
• Do not use with water that is microbiologically unsafe or of unknown quality without adequate
disinfections before or after the system. Systems certified for cyst reduction may be used on
disinfected waters that may contain filterable cysts.
•

MicroTech filter cartridges are designed for replacement after dispensing 200 gallons of filtered
water (approximately 3 months). Water conditions and usage may affect filter life and water taste.

•

The electronic indicator will signal when filter replacement is necessary

•

Use only MicroTech filter cartridges with the PureTouch Filtering Faucet System.

•

Filter flow rate = .4-.5 gpm at rated pressure (20 p.s.i. min. – 125 p.s.i. max.).

Water Temperature
• Minimum/Maximum faucet operating temperature = 40 degrees – 150 degrees F
• CAUTION: Do not filter water above 100 degrees F.
MicroTech™ Filter Flushing Instructions
•

New MicroTech Filter Cartridge: Allow cold water to run through a new filter for 5 minutes to
flush out any loose carbon particles. Once these small black specks are washed out the filter is
ready for use.

•

Daily Use: Allow cold water to run through the filter for 10-15 seconds prior to first use. If the
filter has not been used for two days, run cold water through the filter for 60 seconds prior to use.

Questions
• If you have any questions please call our toll-free help line:
1-800-BUY-MOEN
Monday through Friday
Saturday

8:00 a.m. to 8:00 p.m.
8:00 a.m. to 6:30 p.m.

F-15

AIRSTREAM CLASSIC TRAILER OWNERS MANUAL
PARTS DESCRIPTION

1. Solid Handle Body
2. Set Screw
3. Plug Button
4. Dome
5. Cartridge Screw
6. Handle Adapter
7. Handle Connector
8. Pivot Retainer
9. Wave Spring Washer
10. Pivot Stop
11. Retainer Nut
12. Bearing Washer
13. Retainer Clip
14. 1225 Cartridge
15. Spout Receptor
16. Hose Connection
17. Screen Washer
18.Quarter Turn Connector
19. Pull-out Spout
20. Upper Housing Unit
21. Filter Outlet Nut
22. Aerator
23. Filter Cover
24. Threaded Discharge Tube
25. Bottom Bearing Washer
26. Supply Tubes (2)
27. Deck Plate
28. Deck Ring
29. Ring Gasket
30. Deck Plate Studs (2)
31. Clamp Bar (2)
32. Spacer (2)
33. Small Mounting Nut (2)
34. 1/2" Threaded Fitting (2)
35. Mounting Bracket
36. Medium Mounting Nut
37. Adapter
38. Spout Hose
39. Counter Weight
40. Mounting Tool
41. Filter (not shown)
42. Large Mounting Nut (2) (not shown)
43. Washer

F-16

AIRSTREAM CLASSIC TRAILER OWNERS MANUAL

OPERATING INSTRUCTIONS
Controlling The Water
The PureTouch System has three options for water delivery; unfiltered stream, unfiltered spray and filtered
water.
The spray and stream actuating buttons are on the sides of the pullout spout; the filtered water button is
located on the front of the spout.
Stream/Spray flow rate =
2.2 gpm maximum at 60psi
2.5 gpm maximum at 80 psi.
STREAM MODE: Unfiltered water in regular stream flow.
When the water is turned on at the faucet, the spout will always
begin operating in the regular stream mode.
SPRAY MODE: Unfiltered water in a wide pattern. If a wide
spray mode is desired, push the spray button while the water is
on. To return to stream mode, push the stream button.
FILTERED WATER MODE: Filtered water dispensed through
the separate filtered water outlet. Pressing the front filtered water
button will divert water through the filter and dispense filtered
water from a separate outlet. The only way to exit the filter mode
is to shut the faucet off.

CAUTION: Only filter cold water. Do not filter water
above 100 degrees F.

Electronic Indicator
The electronic indicator provides the following visual and audible
feedback on the filtering system
•

Successful installation of a new filter (audible & visual)

•

Percent of filter life remaining (visual)

•

Filter is actively filtering water (visual)

•

Low filter warning (audible & visual)

•

Depleted filter warning (audible & visual)

•

Low battery warning (audible & visual)

The electronic indicator is powered by a replaceable standard 3V lithium watch battery (2032) designed to
last several years.

F-17

AIRSTREAM CLASSIC TRAILER OWNERS MANUAL
MICROTECH™ FILTER INSTALLATION
NOTE: Faucet will not operate in any mode without filter. Filter should be left in protective bag until ready
for installation, The MicroTech™ filter is a high performance carbon block filter developed specially for
the PureTouch Filtering Faucet System. Once the filter is installed in the pullout spout, it should not be
removed until it is to be replaced. The electronic module keeps track of the amount of filter life
remaining and will signal you when the filter change is necessary. If a partially used filter is removed
and reinstalled, the electronic indicator will automatically reset and will not accurately reflect filter
life remaining.
Use only Microtech filter cartridges with the PureTouch Filtering Faucet System.
1. Remove the filter cover by lifting it up and away from the
pullout spout body.
2. Insert the new filter by aligning the outlet tubes on the filter
with the inlet ports of the spout body and gently pressing in and
down. Upon successful installation of the filter cartridge, the
filter life indicator will beep three times and reset automatically.
(Do not remove the filter until it is to be replaced.)
3. Re-install the filter cover by positioning the alignment tab
with the corresponding notch in the main pullout spout body
and gently pushing in and down.
4. Attach the pullout spout to the hose by aligning the dots on
the quarter turn connector (18) and the spout. Push the quarter
turn connector onto the spout assembly and turn it clockwise,
locking it in place.
5. Allow cold water to run through the new filter for 5 minutes
to flush out any loose carbon particles. Once these small black
particles are washed out the filter is ready for use.
The PureTouch System installation is now complete. Please
read carefully the operation instructions to ensure optimal
performance.

CARE AND MAINTENANCE
All that is needed to clean your faucet is a soft damp cloth. Moen does not recommend the use of scour
pads, cleansers or chemicals. The abrasive nature of these substances could damage the faucet's finish. A
nonabrasive car wax will help to protect the finish. DO NOT PLACE WAND APPLIANCE IN A
DISHWASHER.

F-18

AIRSTREAM CLASSIC TRAILER OWNERS MANUAL
OPERATING INSTRUCTIONS
Successful Installation of a new Filter
When the depleted filter is replaced with a new filter three beeps
are sounded and the 100% filter life is displayed momentarily.
The new filter has been successfully installed and the electronic
indicator has reset.

Percent of Filter Life Remaining
As the filter is used the indicator counts down to zero from 100%.
The percentage remaining is displayed when water is being
filtered. Additionally, the filter status can be checked without the
faucet being turned on by momentarily pressing the filter button.

Filter is Actively Filtering Water
The water drop icon cycles when water is being filtered.

Low Filter Warning
There are two low filter warnings, one at 5% remaining filter life
and 1% remaining life. When the remaining filter life reaches 5%
the low filter icon blinks and three beeps are sounded when the
filter button is depressed. At 1% or less the low filter icon blinks
and beeps are sounded every 5 seconds while water is being
filtered indicating it is time to change the filter.

Depleted Filter Warning
When the filter life remaining reaches 0%, the depleted filter icon
blinks and beeps are continuously sounded while water is being
filtered. The filter mode should not be used until a new filter is
installed.

Low Battery Warning
A standard 3V lithium watch battery designed to last several years
under normal usage powers the electronic indicator. When a low
battery condition is detected the low battery icon blinks and beeps
are sounded while water is being filtered indicating it is time to
change the battery.

F-19

AIRSTREAM CLASSIC TRAILER OWNERS MANUAL
OPERATING INSTRUCTIONS
Helpful Tools: large flat tip screwdriver, small Phillips
screwdriver (#I).
Battery and Upper Housing Replacement
1. With faucet off, push filtered water button and record
percentage of remaining usable filter life. When battery is
changed, filter life indicator automatically resets to 100%. Record
here_______________________________.
2. Remove pullout spout (19) from receptor (15) and tie a
dishtowel around the hose to keep it from slipping back into the
spout receptor.
3. Disconnect the quarter turn connector (18) from spout by
turning it counterclockwise one-quarter turn. The quarter turn
connector will remain attached to the hose.
4. Remove filter cover by lifting up and away from main spout
assembly. Remove filter cartridge from main spout assembly by
lifting from the inlet tube, using same up and away motion.
NOTE: Excess water may dribble from cartridge and valving.
Dry pullout spout with towel to prevent electronics from
becoming wet.
5. With large flat screwdriver or dime,
(counterclockwise) and remove filter outlet nut (21).

unscrew

6. With Phillips screwdriver unscrew (counterclockwise) and
remove two short lower housing screws. Carefully remove lower
housing cover.
7. Unscrew (counterclockwise) and remove three upper housing
screws. Carefully lift upper housing cover off of wand appliance
leaving rubber button covers in place.
8. Battery should now be exposed on upper side of spout.
Remove old battery from battery compartment and dispose of
properly.
9. Install new 2032 battery with positive side up. When battery is
properly installed, filter life indicator will light momentarily.
Activate electronic indicator by pressing filtered water button to
ensure proper battery installation. Display should be visible.
10. Reinstall upper housing cover by carefully aligning over
button covers.

F-20

AIRSTREAM CLASSIC TRAILER OWNERS MANUAL
NOTE: When reinstalling screws and filter outlet nut, insert
into hole, turn counter clockwise with screwdriver until a click
is felt then turn clockwise until snug. DO NOT OVER
TIGHTEN!
11. Reinstall 2 short and 1 long upper housing screws until snug.
Refer to picture (7 & 11) on previous page for placement of long
screw. DO NOT OVER TIGHTEN!

NOTE: To assist in aligning lower housing, press side buttons slightly while sliding housing in place.

12. Reinstall lower housing by carefully aligning over button covers.
13. Reinstall two short housing screws until snug. DO NOT OVER TIGHTEN!
14. Reinstall filter outlet nut (21) with flat screwdriver. DO NOT OVER TIGHTEN!
15. Insert filter by aligning outlet tubes with inlet ports on main
pullout spout assembly and gently pushing in and down. Upon
successful installation of filter cartridge, pullout spout will emit a
series of three beeps and filter life indicator will reset automatically.
16. Reinstall filter cover by positioning alignment tab over
corresponding notch in main pullout spout assembly and gently
pushing in and down.
17. Reattach quarter turn connector (18) to pullout spout (19)
aligning the dots on the quarter turn connector and the spout. Push
the quarter turn connector onto the spout assembly and turn it
clockwise, locking it in place. Return spout to the receptor.
18. If new filter was not installed at battery change, refer to
remaining filter life previously recorded at beginning of battery
replacement. Subtract recorded number in step 1 from the 100%
displayed. The difference represents the display setting at which the
current filter will need replacement. Filter may not perform as desired
after this calculation percentage.

Example: Remaining filter life prior to battery change equals 30%.
Subtract 30% from 100% (100-30=70)
Filter will need to be changed when indicator reads 70%

F-21

AIRSTREAM CLASSIC TRAILER OWNERS MANUAL
FILTER REPLACEMENT
MicroTech™ replacement filter cartridges may be purchased at the same location as the faucet. For the
dealer nearest you, call 1-800-BUY-MOEN. Use only MicroTech filter cartridges with the PureTouch®
Filtering Faucet System.
Do not remove the filter until it is to be replaced.

1. Remove pullout spout (19) from receptor (15) and tie a
dishtowel around the hose to keep it from slipping back into
the spout receptor.

2. Disconnect the quarter turn, connector (18) from pullout
spout by turning it counterclockwise one-quarter turn.
Quarter turn connector will remain on the hose.

3. Remove the filter cover by lifting up and away from
pullout spout assembly. Remove the filter by lifting up and
away from the pullout spout assemble. NOTE: Excess water
may dribble from cartridge and valving.

4. Using soft towel or cloth, wipe excess water from wand
appliance.

5. Insert the new filter by aligning the two outlet tubes on the
filter with the two inlet ports on the spout body and gently
pressing in and down. Upon successful installation of the
filter cartridge, the pullout spout will beep three times and the
filter life indicator will reset automatically.

6. Reinstall the filter cover by positioning the alignment tab
with the corresponding notch in the main pullout spout body
and gently pushing in and down.

7. Reattach the filtering pullout spout to the hose by aligning
the dots on the quarter turn connector (18) to the pullout
spout (19). Push the quarter turn connector onto the spout
assembly and turn it clockwise locking it in place.

8. Allow water to run through the new filter for 5 minutes to
flush out any loose carbon particles. After these small black
particles are washed out the filter is ready to be used.

F-22

AIRSTREAM CLASSIC TRAILER OWNERS MANUAL
TROUBLESHOOTING
PROBLEM: Water drips from hose and quarter turn connection
SOLUTION: Make sure screen washer (17) is in place.

PROBLEM: Slow or uneven water flow in unfiltered modes.
SOLUTION: The screen washer has become clogged. Ensure faucet handle is in a closed position. Remove
pullout spout from receptor and tie a rag around the hose to keep it from slipping back into the spout
receptor. Disconnect the quarter turn connector (18) from hose connection (16). Remove screen washer
(17) from hose connection. Clean screen washer with a toothbrush and rinse.

PROBLEM: Reversed Hot & Cold positions.
SOLUTION: HELPFUL HINTS: IT IS NOT NECESSARY TO SHUT OFF WATER SUPPLIES.
HANDLE SCREW REQUIRES A 7/16" HEX KEY WRENCH.

1. Remove plug button (3) from the handle by prying the button upwards from the
bottom center. If a tool is required, use some thing, which will not scratch the
handle. Remove setscrew (2), handle body (1), dome (4), cartridge screw (5),
handle adapter (6) and handle connector (7).
2. Turn cartridge stem around so that the notch is turned one half turn or 180
degrees.
3. Reinstall as follows: Be sure retainer clip (13) is present on cartridge stem and
raised edge of pivot stop (10) faces front. Note orientation of handle adapter &
connector assembly (6 & 7) in the exploded view. Completely turn cartridge screw
(5) to prevent unwanted closure of faucet. Thread on dome clockwise until hand
tight. Reinstall handle body (1), set screw (2) and plug button (3).

PROBLEM: Pullout hose does not move freely.
SOLUTION: Gently bend supply tubes away from the hose. DO NOT KINK SUPPLY TUBES
PROBLEM: Slow or uneven water flow in filtered mode.
SOLUTION: Filter outlet nut (21) may be clogged
1. Remove filter outlet nut, flush out carbon particles.
2. Filter cartridge may be clogged with captured contaminants Replace filter cartridge.
Call Moen Help line at 1-800-BUY-MOEN if problem persists.
PROBLEM: Water drains from sides of pullout spout when water is on
SOLUTION: Filter may be cracked. Replace filter.
PROBLEM: Electronic display doesn't function.
SOLUTION: Replace battery.

F-23

AIRSTREAM CLASSIC TRAILER OWNERS MANUAL
MOEN FAUCET CARTRIDGE REPLACEMENT

CAUTION: Always turn water OFF before removing existing faucet or disassembling the valve.
Open faucet handle to relieve water pressure and ensure that complete water shut-off has been
accomplished.
1. Remove plug button (3) from the handle by prying the button upwards from the bottom center. Be
careful not to scratch the handle. Lift the handle up and using a 7/64" hex wrench, remove set screw (2).
Remove handle (1), unscrew dome and pivot retainer (4 & 8), cartridge screw (5), handle adapter &
connector assembly (6 & 7), and pivot stop (9). Remove DD washer (10) and retainer nut (11).

2. Using a flathead screwdriver, remove the retainer clip (14).

3. Grasp cartridge stem with pliers and pull cartridge (15) straight up and out of valve body.
4. Reinstall as 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), which
straddles the ears on the cartridge. Reinstall the retainer nut (11) and pivot stop (9) with the stop in front as
shown in Step 4 above. Reinstall DD washer (10) and reassemble handle connector and handle adapter (6
& 7). Note orientation of this sub-assembly as shown in Step 4. Install cartridge screw (5). Be sure to install
completely to prevent unwanted closure of faucet. Thread on dome and pivot retainer (4 & 8) clockwise
until hand tight. Reinstall handle (1), set screw (2), and plug button (3).

F-24

AIRSTREAM CLASSIC TRAILER OWNERS MANUAL
Moen Two Handle Lavatory Faucet
Moen Model 4720
USA
Moen Inc.
25300 AL Moen Dr
North Olmstead, OH. 44070-8022
1-800-Buy-Moen (289-6636)

Canada
Moen Inc.
2816, Route Bristol, Oakville
Ontario, L6H5S7
1-800-465-6130, Toronto: 905- 829-3400

Care Instructions for the Non-Tarnish Finish
As with any fine polished surface, your faucet will retain its shine for years to come with proper care. The
LifeShine TM finish on this faucet does not require the extraordinary work needed to maintain most fine
polished brass finishes.
Be sure to read and follow usage instructions enclosed with any scour pad or scrub sponge before use.
•

Caution: Do not use pads or sponges that specifically do not recommend use for cleaning
polished surfaces.

•

Caution: Many pads or sponges with green fibrous surface (such as Scotch-Brite TM heavy
duty scrub sponges) contain microscopic mineral particles that can scratch nearly all polished
surfaces, including this faucet finish.

The LifeShine TM 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 use to maintain the LifeShine TM finish luster.
Mild scrubbing with fine steel wool (0000 grade) can remove built 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.
Moen Cartridge Removal
CAUTION: Always turn water OFF before
removing or disassembling the valve. Open
valve handles to relieve water pressure to
insure that complete water shut-off has been
achieved.
1. Holding the handle (2) or (18) with one
hand, unscrew the handle hub (9)
counterclockwise and set aside.
2. Unscrew the cartridge nut (11)
counterclockwise.
3. Grasp the cartridge stem with pliers being
careful not to damage stem and pull straight
up.
4. To reassemble, reverse the previous steps. Turn the cartridge stem to ON position, so that the hole in the
piston lines up with the hole in the outer shell. Plush the cartridge straight down into the body making sure
the key on the cartridge fits into the notch in the body. This will correctly position the cartridge. Replace
the cartridge nut, start by hand, DO NOT CROSS THREAD, and tighten firmly.

F-25

AIRSTREAM CLASSIC TRAILER OWNERS MANUAL
Moen Two Handle Lavatory Faucet

Parts List
1.

Cap

2.

Knob Handle

3.

Knob Handle Adapter

4.

Chassis

5.

Wave Washer

6.

Handle Adapter

7.

Screw Handle Adapter

8.

Temperature Indicator

9.

Handle Hub

10. Lift Rod & Knob
11. Cartridge nut
12. Cartridge
13. Escutcheon
14. Gasket
15. Mounting Nut/Washer
16. Nut
17. Aerator
18. Lever Handle

In the US call Moen’s toll free Help line number, 1-800-Buy-Moen (289-6636) for anwsers to any product,
warranty, or installation questions.
In Canada call 1-800-465-6130, Toronto: 905- 829-3400.

F-26

AIRSTREAM CLASSIC TRAILER OWNERS MANUAL
MOEN SHOWER MIXING VALVE ASSEMBLY

1. Handle Cover
2. Handle
3. Cartridge
4. Handle Screw
5. Valve Body
6. Stop Tube
7. Retainer Clip

SHOWER MIXING VALVE CARTRIDGE REMOVAL
Shut off water pressure for entire system.
Disassemble: Remove handle cover. Take out handle screw and remove handle and stop tube, Lift out
retaining clip and pull the cartridge out of the body by the stem.

CAUTION: Reinsert cartridge by pushing it all the way into the body and until the front of the
ears on the cartridge shell are flush and aligned with the body. Replace the retainer clip so that the
legs straddle the cartridge ears and slide down into the bottom slot in the body. This prevents the
cartridge from rotating and locks it in the body. Reinstall stop tube and handle. Tighten handle
screw securely, and replace the handle cover. The red flat on the stem must point UP when mounting
the knob handle (down for lever handle).
If cold water is on left side and hot water is on right side (red flat pointed down), remove cartridge and
reinstall 180 degrees.

F-27

AIRSTREAM CLASSIC TRAILER OWNERS MANUAL
DRAIN VALVES
The line drain valves have been moved to the exterior of the coach for easier access. If you look between
your tires you can see a galvanized "box" that is a few inches lower than the trailer frame. This "box" or
pan supports the water tank.
The line drains will be the two brass petcocks extending from the end of the pan. The white plastic petcock
you will see is to drain the water tank.
To Empty Fresh Water Tank
Pumping the water out with the self-contained water pump may empty the fresh water tank. Simply turn on
the pump switch and open a couple of faucets until the water will no longer comes out. On all models there
is also a petcock type drain valve located in the wheel well and extended out through the tank support pan.
An additional drain plug is located on the bottom of the tank, accessible under the inspection plate close to
the petcock that can be seen on the bottom of the tank support pan.
Note: For winterizing purposes, only the petcock behind the tires needs to be opened to drain the tank.
Water Heater Draining
All models have a drain plug or petcock on the water heater. Access is from the exterior. The plug or valve
is usually located in the lower left corner, viewed as you face the exterior of the water heater.
WATER VALVES
Your Airstream has five other water valves. These valves are all found in the lavatory cabinet
In some cases they can be found by opening the lavatory door and in other units the drawers may have to be
removed in order to see the valves.
Three of the valves are for by passing the water heater when winterizing using the anti-freeze method as
described in the following pages.
Another of the valves is in the line to your exterior water service valve on the outside of your trailer. In
freezing temperatures the exterior valve can be damaged. In these temperatures shut off the valve in the
lavatory cabinet and open the exterior valve. This drains the water in the exterior valve so freezing won’t
damage it.
The fifth valve is used to shut water off to the toilet in an emergency or service situation. On some units it
is located inside the lavatory cabinet, on most units it is located just behind the toilet close to the floor.

F-28

AIRSTREAM CLASSIC TRAILER OWNERS MANUAL
WINTERIZING AND STORAGE
When storing your trailer for short or long periods use the same precautions as you would in your own
home in regard to perishables, ventilation and rain protection. In addition, for prolonged storage periods
flush out all the drain lines and the holding tanks. Also drain the entire water system including the water
heater and the water storage tank. Instructions for draining the water system are explained in the following
paragraphs on winterizing.
THE MAIN CONSIDERATION IN WINTERIZING IS TO GUARD AGAINST FREEZE DAMAGE TO
THE HOT AND COLD WATER SYSTEMS, THE WASTE DRAIN SYSTEM (INCLUDING THE
TRAPS), AND THE WATER HOLDING TANKS, THE WATER HEATER AND THE BATTERY.
To completely winterize your trailer follow this procedure.
1. Level the trailer from side to side and front to rear. Open all faucets
2. Turn the water pump switch to the ON position to expel water from the storage tank
3. Open all drain valves including drain plug or valve on water heater and exterior water service valve. (See
drain valves on previous page)
4. While the water is draining from the system, open and flush the toilet-flushing valve. Depress hand spray
lever while holding the spray head down inside the bowl. Depress hand spray thumb button on the
telephone showerhead while holding down inside the tub and drain all water from the flexible hose.
Unscrew the heads on both spray units and store.
5. Turn the pump switch OFF after all water has been removed from the storage tank.
6. Remove exhaust hose from water pump.
7. Disconnect the water pump inlet connection and turn the pump on until all the water is expelled. This
water, about 1/2 cup, can be caught in a towel or rag.
8. Lower the front of the trailer as far as the jack will allow until water ceases to drain, then crank the jack
up as high as it will go and let any remaining water drain out.
9. After the water has stopped running from the drain lines, apply at least 60 lbs, of air pressure at the city
water inlet. An air to city water adapter is available from your dealer's RV accessory store. Be sure the
toilet valve and all drain valves and faucets are open and pump outlet hose is disconnected. This can be
accomplished at a service station and will force any remaining water from the water heater and remove any
water which may be trapped in low areas.
10. Pour a cup of *approved non-toxic RV antifreeze into the lavatory, sink and tub drains to prevent trap
freeze-up.
*Approved and listed by a recognized testing authority such as UL (Underwriter Lab).

11. Be sure to open the waste holding tank drain valves and drain and flush the tanks thoroughly (THIS IS
VERY IMPORTANT AS THE SEWAGE IN THE TANKS, IF FROZEN, COULD SERIOUSLY
DAMAGE THE TANKS.)

F-29

AIRSTREAM CLASSIC TRAILER OWNERS MANUAL
12 Remove the cartridge of the water purifier and leave the purifier valve in the open position. (If so
equipped.)

13. Remove the batteries from your trailer and store in a cool dry place where there is no danger of
freezing. It is very important for optimum life of a battery to check it periodically and to keep it fully
charged.

14. Remove any items (food, cosmetics, etc.) from trailer interior that might be damaged by freezing - or
might damage the trailer if containers break.
For additional winterizing protection add a non-toxic antifreeze (approved for drinking water system) to the
water lines using the following procedure.
1.Reconnect all lines except the hose to the pump inlet port. Close all drain valves.
2* Turn by-pass valve to by-pass position. Access to the by-pass valves is in the lavatory cabinet. If your
trailer has rear twin beds valve access may be through the exterior storage door just to the rear of the water
heater.
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 hand shower 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.
*To by-pass the water heater for winterizing, close valves A and C and open valve B (See illustration).

F-30

AIRSTREAM CLASSIC TRAILER OWNERS MANUAL

F-31

AIRSTREAM CLASSIC TRAILER OWNERS MANUAL

F-32

AIRSTREAM CLASSIC TRAILER OWNERS MANUAL

F-33

AIRSTREAM CLASSIC TRAILER OWNERS MANUAL

F-34

AIRSTREAM CLASSIC TRAILER OWNERS MANUAL

F-35

AIRSTREAM CLASSIC TRAILER OWNERS MANUAL

DRAIN AND WASTE SYSTEM
Your trailer has a drain and waste system that includes waste-holding tanks made from molded plastic, free
from corrosion problems, with trouble-free dump valves.
The MAIN HOLDING TANK enables you to use the toilet for several days away from disposal facilities.
The wastewater from the sink, shower, bath and lavatory drains in the AUXILIARY HOLDING TANK.
Each tank has its own dump valve, however, both tanks drain through a common outlet. Therefore, you
need to make only one connection when hooking up in a trailer park with sewer facilities.

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.
Deodorizers
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.
Monitor Panel
Check your monitor panel frequently. When the MAIN HOLDING TANK, (tank #1) is completely full,
sewage cannot be emptied from the toilet bowl. If the AUXILIARY HOLDING TANK (tank #2) is
overfilled, drain water will "backup" into the tub and cause an unpleasant cleaning job. Never drain the
tanks at any place other than an approved dumping station.
Emptying Tanks
Almost all campgrounds will have dumping facilities. Park directories such as Woodalls and Rand McNally
also list dumping stations.
To empty one or both tanks attach the sewer hose by pressing the bayonet fitting onto the dump valve outlet
and rotate clockwise until it feels solid and secure. Attach the outlet end of the hose to the sewage outlet;
making sure that the hose is placed so it will drain completely.
Pull the dump valve handle as far as it will go and wait until the tank is drained. When dumping, the main
holding tank should be dumped first; then the auxiliary holding tank. This will help to rinse out the sewer
line with auxiliary holding tank water.
The main holding tank must be flushed out until all paper and waste material is removed. Close the dump
valve and refill the tank with clean water and repeat until clean. Replace the cap prior to traveling.

F-36

AIRSTREAM CLASSIC TRAILER OWNERS MANUAL
Black Tank Flush
Inside the utility compartment is a water hose connector for the "black tank flush". To use, hook up a hose
and turn on full force. Within the tank a head with multiple holes will spray the interior surface of the tank.
The vacuum breaker and check valve will be located inside the trailer above the exterior connection. In
most models this will place them under the lavatory.
The gate valve should be closed for the first couple of minutes, and then opened to let the water out in a
rush. Repeat as needed.

When Parked and Connected to Sewer Outlet
When you are in a park and connected to a sewer outlet keep the main holding tank dump valve closed, and
empty the tank every few days or whenever it becomes almost full. ONLY BY SENDING A LARGE
VOLUME OF LIQUID THROUGH THE MAIN HOLDING TANK AT A TIME WILL TOILET PAPER
AND OTHER SOLIDS COMPLETELY WASH AWAY.
This practice will avoid the accumulation of solids in the main holding tank, which could lead to an
unpleasant cleaning job. Should solids accumulate, close the dump valve; fill the tank about half full with
water, then tow the trailer for a few miles. The turbulence and surging of the water will usually dissolve the
solids into suspension so the tank can be drained. Keep the auxiliary tank valve open when connected to a
sewer outlet.
Draining the tanks as described will protect them from freezing during storage. When traveling in subfreezing temperatures use a winterizing solution designed for RV use. Follow the directions on the
container.
Drain Systems Cleaning
The only cleaning agents that can be used without causing harm to the system are household ammonia and
tri-sodium phosphate in small quantities. Do not use any product that contains any portion of petroleum
distillates. This attacks the rubber seats of your toilet and dump valve. Also, do not use any dish detergent
or abrasive cleaners. All products should be marked approved for ABS drainage systems.
When winterizing drains use only trailer plumbing system type antifreeze. These are sold through your
dealer.

F-37

AIRSTREAM CLASSIC TRAILER OWNERS MANUAL

F-38

AIRSTREAM CLASSIC TRAILER OWNERS MANUAL

F-39

AIRSTREAM CLASSIC TRAILER OWNERS MANUAL

F-40

AIRSTREAM CLASSIC TRAILER OWNERS MANUAL

F-41

AIRSTREAM CLASSIC TRAILER OWNERS MANUAL

F-42

AIRSTREAM CLASSIC TRAILER OWNERS MANUAL

F-43

AIRSTREAM CLASSIC TRAILER OWNERS MANUAL

F-44

AIRSTREAM CLASSIC TRAILER OWNERS MANUAL
TOILET
Manufacturer:

Thetford Corporation
7101 Jackson Road
Ann Arbor, MI 48103
313-769-6000

Sealand Technology (34’ Classic non-slide only)
13128 State Route 226, P.O. Box38
Big Prairie, Oh. 44611
1-800-321-9866

The RV toilet in your Airstream is a design that has been used for many years. There are two pedals. The
large pedal opens and closes the slide mechanism, and the smaller pedal opens and closes a water valve.
In normal use, when you are hooked up to city water, both pedals are depressed together. This dumps the
sewage and fresh water and flushes down the side of the bowl. Water will continue to run into the bowl for
a short time after the pedals are released.
When you wish to conserve water hold the hand-spray head over the bowl and hold down the thumboperated 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.

F-45

AIRSTREAM CLASSIC TRAILER OWNERS MANUAL
ELECTRICAL
OPERATION
The major portion of electrical power in your Airstream is 12-volt. The 12-volt current powers the fans,
furnaces, water pump, and water heater ignition. The exception would be the air conditioner and
microwave oven.
All 12-volt current comes through the battery system in the front of your trailer. The battery or batteries are
accessible from the exterior on the front of your trailer. Power from the battery first goes to a master or
"kill" switch inside the trailer. The kill switch, 12-volt distribution panel, and converter are located under
the front sofa. Open the lounge door under the sofa seat and look on the roadside of the storage area. The
kill switch and distribution panel are mounted on a hinged panel that lowers to access the converter. On
trailers without a front sofa the 12-volt distribution panel and the kill switch is located under the computer
table. The master switch should be left in the ON position except when storing, or a mechanic may use the
switch when servicing the trailer.
Power from the main switch continues on to the 12-volt distribution panel, and then to the rest of the trailer.
The 12-volt distribution panel has reset circuit breakers and does not require routine servicing. If a short
should occur the breaker in that circuit will "click" off and you may notice some lights or appliances losing
power. If this should happen, immediately turn the lights and appliances off that are on the shorting circuit
and reset the breaker by depressing the small button in the end. If the breaker continues to "click" turn the
main power off until a qualified technician can service your trailer.
The charge in the 12-volt batteries is replenished when towing or when plugged into 110-volt city power.

G-1

AIRSTREAM CLASSIC TRAILER OWNERS MANUAL
BATTERY

CAUTION:

A normal battery can discharge by itself in 30 to 40 days when not in use, therefore,
IT IS NECESSARY TO PERIODICALLY CHECK THE BATTERY AND CHARGE IT AS IS
NECESSARY.
We suggest checking the battery at least every two weeks in freezing weather. The temperature at which a
battery will freeze depends on the condition of its charge. As an example: a fully charged battery with a
specific gravity of 1.265 will not freeze until the electrolyte temperature drops to - 71.3 degrees F, while a
discharged battery will freeze at +19 degrees F. The following table shows the freezing points of batteries
at various specific gravity readings, temperature corrected 80 degrees F.

1.265
1.250
1.200
1.100
1.150

-71.3 F
-62 F
-16 F
+5 F
+19 F

Do not add water to a battery in freezing temperatures unless the vehicle will be put to use at once,
otherwise the added water may freeze. Neglect is expensive. Care costs little. Check your batteries
regularly.
MAINTAIN A CLEAN BATTERY TOP AND CHECK TERMINALS AND CABLES FOR TIGHTNESS
AND CLEANLINESS. A dirty battery will dissipate its charge through surface contamination. Clean
battery top with a damp cloth and dry thoroughly.
The terminals should be tight and free of corrosion. To clean terminals, neutralize with a solution of baking
soda, rinse in clear water, and dry.
Note: Care must be used to make sure soda is not allowed to enter battery cells.
To insure maximum battery capacity on the charge and the discharge, the battery terminals and the
inside portion of the cable connector should be scraped or brushed until both of these surfaces are
shiny bright. The cable connectors should then be reconnected to the battery and tightened. The
complete assembly, battery post and cable connector should be coated with heavy body mineral
grease, petroleum grease or petroleum jell.

CAUTION: RECONNECT THE BATTERY CABLES TO THE CORRECT BATTERY POSTS.
The black cable should be connected to the negative (-) post and the red cable to the (+) post. The polarity
of your tow vehicle must also be negative (-) ground since it must always match the trailer. Most tow
vehicles are negative grounded, but always check your vehicle owner's manual to be sure.
ADD WATER TO CELLS AS NECESSARY. Check the electrolyte level at least once a month. When you
are traveling steadily and for an extended period of time, or if you are in climates above 90 degrees F,
check the electrolyte level about every two weeks.

CAUTION: Do not fill battery above the split ring in filler opening. DO NOT MEASURE
SPECIFIC GRAVITY IMMEDIATELY after adding water. The water must mix with the electrolyte
by charging or by driving a few miles.

G-2

AIRSTREAM CLASSIC TRAILER OWNERS MANUAL

WARNING: The gases generated within a storage battery cell may be ignited by an open
flame or spark in the vicinity of the battery. Do not use a match or flame to provide light for
checking the level of the water.
During the winter the battery should be removed from the trailer and stored in a cool, dry place, where
there is no danger of freezing. It should be kept full of water, cleaned and charged monthly. A battery that
is allowed to completely lose its charge will never regain its original power or a full charge.
Slide the battery out onto the opened compartment door for service and removal
For battery service or replacement, go to any service station or dealer who sells and services the make
battery installed in your trailer.
When being towed, the 12-volt battery in your trailer is receiving a constant charge from the car's generator
or alternator through the seven-way connector.
Your automobile’s voltage regulator controls the charge rate. It is important to keep the seven-way
connector clean. One method is to use "Spra-Kleen".
Whenever possible use the automatic built in charge of the converter system for charging. The charging
circuit automatically controls the current, reducing it as the battery increases in charge.
At service stations make certain they give your battery a slow charge because quick charges will drastically
shorten the life of the battery, as will allowing repeated complete discharges.
CONVERTER
The converter system is the interior low voltage electrical system that enables you to use the interior lights,
fans, pumps and 12-volt appliances whether operating on self-contained battery power or 120-volt city
power.

CAUTION:

Plugging the trailer into 120 volt city power with the master switch off will blow
radio fuses and may damage other 12-volt components. Use the master switch when storing the
vehicle for long periods of time.
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 as follows:
A.

Main charge line from tow vehicle

B.

Trailer Battery

C.

Converter

The power sources above are all 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 lights, pumps,
motors and appliances.

G-3

AIRSTREAM CLASSIC TRAILER OWNERS MANUAL
Converter
The converter transforms 120-volt alternating current (AC) into 12-volt direct current (DC). This provides
power to charge the trailer battery and to operate the 12 volt interior lighting, fans, and appliances.
The converter is energized only when the trailer 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, replace it.
Converter Removal
1. Disconnect power cord for 120-volt supply.
2. Switch circuit breakers to off position.
3. Remove the front lounge.
4. Disconnect lead-in wires running from converter assembly to 12 -volt fuse distribution panel.
5. Remove converter box.
6. Remove four screws mounting the converter assembly to the floor.
7. Remove the converter assembly.
8. To install, reverse the removal procedures.

G-4

AIRSTREAM CLASSIC TRAILER OWNERS MANUAL

12 –VOLT EXTERIOR

Note: The 7 way wire is spliced to the main harness behind the front sofa in the front of the trailer.
One of these wires is not spliced onto a wire of the same color. It is the back up wire that is yellow in the
cable and black in the harness.

G-5

AIRSTREAM CLASSIC TRAILER OWNERS MANUAL

G-6

AIRSTREAM CLASSIC TRAILER OWNERS MANUAL

G-7

AIRSTREAM CLASSIC TRAILER OWNERS MANUAL
12-VOLT INTERIOR
Distribution Panel,
USA
The low voltage
distribution panel is
located under the front
sofa behind the lounge
door. On certain models
it is under the computer
desk. Manual reset
breakers protect all the
12-volt circuits. If a
beaker trips, an audible
click will be heard, and
you may have lights,
appliances, or other 12volt systems quit
working. Reset the
breaker by depressing
the small rectangular
button on the end of the
breaker. If the breaker
trips a second time,
some of the light or
appliances on that circuit
should be shut off. The
protruding reset button
can identify the
questionable breaker.
Each trailer has a master
“ kill switch”. Access is
located beside the 12volt distribution panel.
This switch should be
only used when storing
or servicing the trailer.

G-8

AIRSTREAM CLASSIC TRAILER OWNERS MANUAL

G-9

AIRSTREAM CLASSIC TRAILER OWNERS MANUAL
TROUBLE SHOOTING
The most common failure in the exterior electrical system is an open circuit. An open circuit is an
interruption in the current flow, which may be in either the wire to the component or in the ground return.
Check the following areas for open circuits:
1. Light bulb (filament open.)
2. Loose or corroded connections at lighting device.
3. Loose or corroded connections at 7 way connectors
4. Improper grounding at the lighting device.
A continuity light or an ohmmeter will help you isolate the point of the "open" on the circuit. Another cause
of failure is a short circuit usually resulting in a blown fuse or cycling circuit breaker at the power source.
The wire coming in contact with a sharp edge usually causes a short. The sharp edge wears the wire's
insulation away until the "hot" wire short to ground.
Locating Shorts and Opens
The key in locating shorts and opens is isolation. The first step is to isolate the circuit with the short or open
and then isolate the section of the circuit with the fault. Once the section is identified, the specific problem
can be located. The cause may be a loose or corroded connection, cut wire, worn insulation, defective
component, etc. The following paragraphs describe methods of isolating shorts and opens. There are
several other approaches that may be used; however, these may be used as a guide.
Shorts
1. Locate circuit that has short by noting fuse blown or cycling breaker.
2. Remove fuses or wire from breaker, and open all switches. Check for continuity between (+) 12-volt
wire or shorted circuit and ground. (If it cannot be determined if the switch is in the open position, remove
the lead from the switch.) Continuity to ground indicates there is a short.
3. Remove leads of shorted circuits from converter and components one at a time. After disconnecting each
component, check continuity of the (+) 12-volt wire to ground. If there is no continuity the short is in the
component removed. If continuity still exists, continue with the following steps.
4. Inspect leads carefully where they pass through the skin or near sharp edges.
5. Note objects attached to skin after manufacturing. The mounting screws or rivets may be causing the
short.
6. Remove multi-dome to expose main body of harness. Inspect harness for cause of short, such as rivets or
screws in harness or evidence of drilling.
7. If short cannot be found, cut circuit into sections, checking each section for continuity. Shorts can be
isolated by this method.
8. Examples of shorts are:
•
•

The (+) 12-volt wire contacting (-) negative wire or grounded surface.
Internal short in a 12-volt component or appliance.

G-10

AIRSTREAM CLASSIC TRAILER OWNERS MANUAL

Opens
1. Check all components on circuit that has open. If all components are without power, begin to look for
open on distribution panel.
2. Check for voltage on each side of the breaker. Check for tightness of crimp on connector and nut.
3. After inspecting all accessible wire on a circuit for opens, further inspection requires removal of interior
skin to find the short or the installation of replacement wire. A qualified service center should be contacted
for this repair.
A continuity light is a useful tool in locating an open. Each section of circuit can be checked for continuity.
A process of elimination may find the open.
4. Examples of open are:
•

Wire is cut.

•

Connector falls off component's terminal.

•

Loose or corroded connection.

•

Contacts in switch do not touch

COMMON ELECTRICAL PROBLEMS
PROBLEM: No 12-volt power, (Lights and appliances do not work.)
CAUSE & REMEDY:
1. Input line and/or battery not connected. Make necessary connections.
2. Master (Kill) switch not turned on,
3. Discharged trailer battery. Charge battery.
4. Trailer battery on wrong polarity. Make proper connections to battery terminals.
PROBLEM: Tripping Breaker
CAUSE & REMEDY:
1. Overloaded circuit. Turn off switches to reduce load.
2. Electrical short. Find tripping breaker distribution panel and identify circuit. Check
the circuit for defective wiring, lamps or motors.
3. Shorted battery. Replace battery.
4. Battery terminals not properly connected to converter. Make proper connections.
PROBLEM: Dim lights or sluggish fan motor.
CAUSE & REMEDY:
1. 25- or 50- cycle power (some foreign countries). Use 60-cycle power.
2. Discharged battery (when operating without 110 volt line) Charge battery.
3. Battery is low on water. Add distilled water to battery.

G-11

AIRSTREAM CLASSIC TRAILER OWNERS MANUAL
PROBLEM: Converter will not charge battery.
CAUSE & REMEDY:
1. In put line not connected. Connect.
2. Battery not connected or polarity reversed. Connect battery to converter (Check polarity).
3. Bad Battery. Replace.
4. Too many lights and appliances. Reduce electrical load

12-VOLT WIRING DIAGRAMS
The main harness leaves the 12-volt distribution panel and runs around the roadside wall INSIDE the
trailer. In the area of the credenza table and going cross car between the water tanks the harness is under the
floor in protective covers.
About halfway back the trailer, the main body interior harness goes up the wall and plugs into the ceiling
harness. The ceiling harness runs at the corner junction of the sidewall and ceiling on the curbside with
branches running straight out to the lights and fans. All models are pre-wired for solar panel.
The following diagrams list the circuits and show the location of the harness and give the wire color and
gauge for each function.
DIAGRAMS:
25 ft. - body interior

34 ft. – body interior

25ft. – ceiling

34 ft. – ceiling

28 ft. - body interior

34 ft. w/so - body interior A

28ft. – ceiling

34 ft. w/so - body interior B

30ft. - body interior

34 ft. w/so – ceiling

30ft. – ceiling

34 ft - slide out room

30ft.S/O - body interior “PT A”

31 ft. – body interior

30ft. S/O – body interior “PT B”

Taillight harness - all models

31 ft. – ceiling

All models – tail light harness

G-12

AIRSTREAM CLASSIC TRAILER OWNERS MANUAL

G-13

AIRSTREAM CLASSIC TRAILER OWNERS MANUAL

G-14

AIRSTREAM CLASSIC TRAILER OWNERS MANUAL

G-15

AIRSTREAM CLASSIC TRAILER OWNERS MANUAL

G-16

AIRSTREAM CLASSIC TRAILER OWNERS MANUAL

G-17

AIRSTREAM CLASSIC TRAILER OWNERS MANUAL

G-18

AIRSTREAM CLASSIC TRAILER OWNERS MANUAL

G-19

AIRSTREAM CLASSIC TRAILER OWNERS MANUAL

G-20

AIRSTREAM CLASSIC TRAILER OWNERS MANUAL

G-21

AIRSTREAM CLASSIC TRAILER OWNERS MANUAL

G-22

AIRSTREAM CLASSIC TRAILER OWNERS MANUAL

G-23

AIRSTREAM CLASSIC TRAILER OWNERS MANUAL

G-24

AIRSTREAM CLASSIC TRAILER OWNERS MANUAL

G-25

AIRSTREAM CLASSIC TRAILER OWNERS MANUAL

G-26

AIRSTREAM CLASSIC TRAILER OWNERS MANUAL

G-27

AIRSTREAM CLASSIC TRAILER OWNERS MANUAL

G-28

AIRSTREAM CLASSIC TRAILER OWNERS MANUAL

G-29

AIRSTREAM CLASSIC TRAILER OWNERS MANUAL
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.

WARNING: 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 finetuning 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.

G-30

AIRSTREAM CLASSIC TRAILER OWNERS MANUAL
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 lubricant 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.

G-31

AIRSTREAM CLASSIC TRAILER OWNERS MANUAL
PARTS DESCRIPTION
1. Antenna Head
2. LM-300 Leveling Mount
3. Boot, Coax Cable
4. Pin, Headed/Grooved
5. Ring, Retaining Snap
6. Spacer, Plastic
7. Grommet, Plastic
8. EG-87 Elevating Gear
9. Tube, Square Elevator
10. Elevating Shaft Assy
11. Housing, Rotating Gear
12. Ring Quad Seal
13. Bearing, Nylon
14. Housing, Base Plate
15. Bearing, Nylon
17. Plate, Ceiling
18. Screw
19. Handle, Directional
20. Spring, Handle
21. Decal, Crank Cover
22. Bearing, Nylon
23. Elevating Crank/Set Screw
27. Boot, Gear Housing
30. Bumper, Rubber
31. Screw

G-32

AIRSTREAM CLASSIC TRAILER OWNERS MANUAL

SATELLITE ANTENNA WIRING
If you compare the two previous drawings you'll see wiring for a satellite dish antenna is relatively simple.
Units have a faceplate with two coax cable hook-ups. It is located in the TV credenza on all models except
the slide-out model with the overhead TV, which is located in the cabinet to the roadside of the TV. 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.
2.
3.

Remove the jumper wire from the coax faceplate.
Hook a portable dish into the Cable TV receptacle in the roadside rear underbelly compartment.
This feeds the dish signal to the input side of the faceplate.
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.

G-33

AIRSTREAM CLASSIC TRAILER OWNERS MANUAL

SOLAR PANEL PRE-WIRE
•

WIRE SIZE: 10 Ga.

•

WIRE COLOR:

1. Positive lead from battery to solar meter/charge controller is RED.

2. Negative lead from battery to solar meter/charge controller is BLACK.

3. Positive lead from solar meter/charge to solar panel is YELLOW (like the sun).

4. Negative lead from solar meter/charge to solar panel is GREEN (like the earth).
•

WIRE LOCATION

1. The positive (red) and negative (black) leads that connect to the battery are located behind the sofa and
between the two battery compartments on the CLASSIC trailer.

CAUTION: The red wire must be fused with a 10-amp in-line fuse at the 12-volt positive.
2. The positive (red) and negative (black) leads from the battery that connect to the solar meter/charge
controller are located in the galley cabinet and are clamped to the wall near the forward galley end panel.

3. The positive (yellow) and negative (green) leads that connect to the solar, meter/charge controllers are
located in the galley cabinet and are clamped to the wall near the forward galley end panel. These wires are
in the same bundle as the red and black battery leads.

4. On all units the positive (yellow) and negative (green) leads for the solar panel are found in the exterior
refrigerator compartment.
NOTE: All wires are identified at all locations.

G-34

AIRSTREAM CLASSIC TRAILER OWNERS MANUAL
BATHROOM EXHAUST FAN ASSEMBLY

1. Cover Assy w/gaskets
2. Gasket Assy
3. Blower wheel Assy
4. Motor Assy
5. Ring Body Assy
6. Grille Assy
7. Handle Assy
8. Trim Ring Assy

Removal and Replacement
1.
2.
3.
4.
5.

Working from the outside top of trailer, remove the screws holding the fan protective cap, and
remove the cap.
Remove the 6 screws securing the fan flange to the outer skin.
Pull the fan out to the extent of the wiring harness and unplug the harness.
Remove the fan assembly.
To install, reverse the removal procedures.

G-35

AIRSTREAM CLASSIC TRAILER OWNERS MANUAL

MONITOR PANEL
Phillips Product
Vent Line/LVS Division Hwy. 15 South
Bristol, IN 46507
Phone: 219-848-4491
Operation
To check tank capacities or battery condition, depress the switch marked "monitor". In order to obtain a
true reading on the batteries you must be unplugged from city power and disconnected from your tow
vehicle. Holding tank 1 is the black tank and tank 2 is the gray (drain water) tank.
The two-speed "Hood Fan" has an exterior door that must be unlatched to be effective. You'll see the two
small twist latches if you look at the fan from outside. In most circumstances you can leave the door
unlatched. During storage or adverse weather conditions latching the door is recommended.
Trouble Shooting Guide
Be sure the wiring to the panel is correct and that the house battery is well charged. All electrical
connections must be correct.
NOTE: RV's are subjected to a lot of vibration from traveling on the highways, so always look for broken
wires and loose or broken connections.
PROBLEM:

Fan does not operate.

CAUSES:

A. No voltage to switch.
B. Defective switch, defective motor.

REMEDY:

1. Check for voltage, test switch, test motor.

PROBLEM:

Fan operates on high speed but not on low speed.

CAUSES:

A. Defective circuit board.

REMEDY:

1. Replace circuit board

PROBLEM:

Hood light does not operate.

CAUSES:

A. Burned out bulbs.
B. No voltage to switch
C. Defective switch.

REMEDY:

1. Test for voltage.
2. Test switch.
3. Test bulbs

G-36

AIRSTREAM CLASSIC TRAILER OWNERS MANUAL
PROBLEM:

Water pump does not operate.

CAUSES:

A. No voltage to pump.
B. Defective switch or pump.
C. Pump not grounded.

REMEDY:

1. Test for voltage at switch.
2. Check ground.

PROBLEM:

Water pump operates but red indicator light does not come on.

CAUSES:

A. Faulty LED.
B. Faulty circuit board.

REMEDY:

1. Replace circuit board.

PROBLEM:

"E" LED shows but indicator lights for amount of liquid in tank don't show.

CAUSES:

A. Faulty connection in lead to tank.
B. Faulty circuit board.

REMEDY:

1. Check leads and connections at tank.
2. Replace circuit board.

PROBLEM:

Condition of battery is not indicated when switch is pushed.

CAUSES:

A.
B.
C.
D.

REMEDY:

1. Test switch, check ground.
2. Change circuit board.
3. Charge battery.

PROBLEM:

No "E" light on water tanks when switch is pushed.

CAUSES:

A. No power to panel.
B. Defective circuit board.

REMEDY:

1. Check fuses and power leads.
2. Repair or replace panel.

PROBLEM:

Improper level indication on one or two tanks.

CAUSES:

A. Faulty wiring from panel to sensors.
B. Faulty circuit board.
C. Dirty sensors and/or tank.

REMEDY:

1. Check wiring to sensors.
2. Clean sensors and tank.
3. Replace tank sensor harness.
4. Replace or repair circuit board.

Faulty switch.
Faulty circuit board.
Circuit board not grounded
Dead battery.

G-37

AIRSTREAM CLASSIC TRAILER OWNERS MANUAL
PROBLEM:

Improper level indication on all water tanks.

CAUSES:

A. Faulty circuit board.

REMEDY:

1. Replace or repair circuit board.

PROBLEM:
.
CAUSES:

Panel shows LPG tank to be full all of the time.

REMEDY:

1. Check and repair wiring from tank to panel and tank to ground.
2. Repair or replace tank sending unit.
3. Repair or replace circuit board.

PROBLEM:

Panel shows LPG tank to be empty all of the time.

CAUSES:

A. Short to ground in wire between panel and tank sending unit.
B. Faulty tank sending unit.
C. Faulty circuit board.

REMEDY:

1. Repair shorted wire.
2. Repair or replace sending unit.
3. Repair or replace circuit board.

A. Connection between tank and panel faulty.
B. Poor or no ground between tank and vehicle.
C. Faulty tank sending unit or faulty circuit board.

NOTE: If the wire from the panel is removed from the tank, the panel indicator should show the tank full.
If the panel wire to the tank is grounded, the panel should show the tank empty.
PROBLEM:
CAUSES:

Appliance switches on panel appear not to work.
A. Faulty switch.
B. No voltage to switch.

REMEDY:

1. Remove panel to expose switches.
2. Test operation of switches with an ohmmeter, voltmeter or a 12-volt test light.

PROBLEM

Appliance switches make contact and voltage is available but appliance does not operate.

CAUSES:

A. Faulty wiring from panel to appliance.
B. Faulty appliance.

REMEDY:

1. Check wiring to appliances.
2. Troubleshoot and repair or replace according to the appliance manual.

NOTE: When voltage is not available when and where it should be, check for loose or blown fuses and/or
for tripped circuit breakers.

G-38

AIRSTREAM CLASSIC TRAILER OWNERS MANUAL
ADJUSTMENT INSTRUCTIONS FOR VENTLINE ADJUST-A-BOARDS™
Ventline's printed circuit boards (PCB's) are equipped with potentiometers (pots) that allow the holding
tank sensitivity to be adjusted. This adjustment is sometimes necessary to compensate for the difference in
conductivity between liquids in the holding tanks. The intent of this feature is to compensate for minor
fluctuations in the mineral content of the water, not to be used in place of regular maintenance of the
holding tanks. The pots should not be adjusted to compensate for dirty holding tanks. A buildup of grease,
soap by-products, etc. will cause a path of least resistance in the holding tank and cause the system to be
oversensitive. The holding tanks should be cleaned regularly as recommended by the tank manufacturer.
See section G of this manual.
The PCB's have one pot installed for each holding tank; they are located towards the top of the PCB. Each
pot is identified on the back of the PCB with P1, P2, or P3 (i.e., P1 = corresponds to the pot for holding
tank 1). The monitor panel pots are initially set with the wiper blade fully clockwise. If a holding tank
reading is oversensitive (the LED's are reading higher than the actual tank water level), the pot should be
adjusted counterclockwise until the LED's read the correct level. Care should be taken not to force the pot
past its wiper blade limits. It is not necessary to remove the PCB from the monitor panel chassis to make
these adjustments.
If you have any further questions regarding this subject, please contact Ventline Engineering at (219) 8484491.

G-39

AIRSTREAM CLASSIC TRAILER OWNERS MANUAL

G-40

AIRSTREAM CLASSIC TRAILER OWNERS MANUAL
110-VOLT ELECTRICAL SYSTEM
City Power
The Airstream converter system enables you to use the lights and appliances whether operating on selfcontained battery power or hooked up to 110 volt city power. The 12-volt light bulbs give off the same
light as regular household bulbs, so that when operating on self-contained battery power, everything works
normally except the 110-volt convenience outlets and 110-volt appliances.
Exterior outlets for 110 volts are located on the curbside exterior wall.

CAUTION:

When operating with city power make very certain that the service is 110 volt and

not 220 volt.
The converter system is designed to maintain constant output voltages regardless of the variances that occur
in city power systems. The transformer design eliminates the need for complex electronic sensing systems
to charge the battery, minimizing the possibility of failures and greatly increasing its overall reliability.

CAUTION: Your Airstream has a gas electric water heater. Make sure the 110-volt water heater
switch in the bathroom is turned off when you plug your trailer in to city power. If your plumbing
and water heater are full of water the switch may be left in the on position.

WARNING: When the three-pronged plug can be used there will be no problems with
proper polarity or grounding.
In some older parks and other locations where three pronged outlets are not available, certain precautions to
insure proper grounding and polarity must be taken. These precautions are listed below:
1. Attach the three-pronged plug to a two-pronged adapter. The third conductor line of this adapter has a
short wire lead, which must be grounded.
2. For proper grounding connect the short ground lead to a grounded outlet box or to a cold water pipe.
When no water pipe is available drive a metal rod two feet into the ground and attach the ground lug to it,
thus providing the unit with proper grounding.
To operate self-contained, simply disconnect the power supply cable.
When your trailer is hooked up to 110 volt AC the converter system automatically charges the trailer
batteries and, if the 7-way connector is hooked up, your automobile battery as well. The speed and degree
of charge depends on how much power is used for lights and appliances, as only the surplus goes to
charging the battery. If you are making an extended stay, then you should, if it is available, keep your
trailer hooked up to a 110 volt current.
Circuit breakers for the 110-volt system are located in the roadside rear corner of the trailer in the overhead
cabinet. Trailers with CSA approval may have the circuit breaker box under the bed or lower cabinet.
While you are connected to the 110-volt receptacle the wiring is protected by circuit breakers in the breaker
panel. In the event of a failure of a 110-volt circuit check your circuit breakers first. If a breaker
continues to trip after you have reset it several times, your circuit may be overloaded with appliances or
there may be a short in the circuit, The 110-volt switch on the water heater, with its 12 amp draw, would be
one of the easiest places to reduce the load on 110-volt circuits. If lessening the load does not solve the
problem consult an Airstream Service Center.
The 110-volt electrical system provides power to operate the air conditioner, converter and 110-volt
receptacles for portable appliances. The power is carried through the 110-volt city power flexible cord to
the 110-volt distribution panel, and then is distributed to each appliance or receptacle.
All wire, components, and wiring methods conform to federal and state requirements.

G-41

AIRSTREAM CLASSIC TRAILER OWNERS MANUAL

G-42

AIRSTREAM CLASSIC TRAILER OWNERS MANUAL
GROUND FAULT CIRCUIT INTERRUPTER (GFCI)
Many states require trailers which are sold in their state, and which have exterior 110 volt receptacles, to
have a ground fault circuit interrupter.
Trailers manufactured for sale in these states have type THQL 15 amp GFCI breakers installed on the
general circuit, since the exterior breaker is on this circuit. The breaker replaced the standard TQL-15 amp
breaker.

When properly installed, the GFCI circuit breaker provides reliable overload and short circuit protection
PLUS protection from Ground Faults that might result from contact with a "HOT"' load wire and ground.
IMPORTANT NOTE: The GFCI circuit breaker will NOT reduce shock hazard if contact is made
between a "HOT" load wire and a neutral wire or 2 "HOT" load wires.
Each GFCI circuit breaker is calibrated to trip with a ground current of 5 milliamperes or more. Since most
persons can feel as little as 2 milliamperes, a distinct shock may be felt if the need for protection exists.
However, the shock should be of such short duration that the effects would be reduced to less than the
normally dangerous level. However, persons with acute heart problems or other conditions that can make a
person particularly susceptible to electric shock may still be seriously injured.

G-43

AIRSTREAM CLASSIC TRAILER OWNERS MANUAL
While the GFCI circuit breaker affords a high degree of protection, there is no substitute for the knowledge
that electricity can be dangerous when carelessly handled or used without reasonable caution.

WARNING: The GFCI circuit breaker provides protection only to the circuit to which it
is connected. It does NOT provide protection to any other circuit.
OCCUPANT:
Make this test each month and record the date on the chart.
1. With handle B in "ON" position, press PUSH TO TEST button A.
2. Handle B should move to TRIP position, indicating that GFCI breaker has
opened the circuit.
3. To restore power move handle B to "OFF" and the to "ON
Important: If handle B does not move to TRIP position when test button is pressed, the GFCI breaker
protection is not complete. If this happens, replace GFCI breaker.
JAN

FEB

MAR

APR

MAY

JUN

2000
2001
2002

G-44

JUL

AUG

SEP

OCT

NOV

DEC

AIRSTREAM CLASSIC TRAILER OWNERS MANUAL

G-45

AIRSTREAM CLASSIC TRAILER OWNERS MANUAL

G-46

AIRSTREAM CLASSIC TRAILER OWNERS MANUAL

G-47

AIRSTREAM CLASSIC TRAILER OWNERS MANUAL

G-48

AIRSTREAM CLASSIC TRAILER OWNERS MANUAL

G-49

AIRSTREAM CLASSIC TRAILER OWNERS MANUAL

G-50

AIRSTREAM CLASSIC TRAILER OWNERS MANUAL
APPLIANCES

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 trailers is one of the most popular on the market today. In your
Owner's Packet is a set of literature covering all operating and maintenance instructions. If the literature is
misplaced please contact the air conditioner manufacturer or your Airstream dealer for replacement.
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 associated with older or poorly maintained trailer 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 trailer is already hot.

H-1

AIRSTREAM CLASSIC TRAILER OWNERS MANUAL
FURNACE
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 is well known in the RV industry. The furnace burns
LP gas, and is powered by 12 volt current from the battery or power converter when plugged into city
power. Operating instructions are located in your Owners Packet. If they should become misplaced new
literature can be ordered direct from the manufacturer or your Airstream dealer. The manufacturer also
offers a detailed service guide for your furnace.

WARNING: Carefully read all the manufacturer's instructions prior to operating.
NEVER store flammable material next to the furnace.
If warranty service is required use only a service location recommended by the furnace
manufacturer or your Airstream dealer.

H-2

AIRSTREAM CLASSIC TRAILER OWNERS MANUAL
RANGE
Manufacturer:
Magic Chef
28812 Phillips Street
Elkhart, Indiana 46514
219-264-9578
People using gas ranges in their home will find little difference in the operation of the range in the
motorhome. 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 is titled "Maytag RV Cooking
Appliances". If this has not been provided with your trailer, contact the manufacturer listed at the
top of the page to obtain. Their manual contains specialized warnings and cautions that should be
reviewed prior to operating the appliance.

H-3

AIRSTREAM CLASSIC TRAILER OWNERS MANUAL
MICROWAVE OVENS
Only federally certified technicians are permitted to service microwave ovens. For this reason the only
service instructions contained in this manual are for removal of the complete oven. If you have a
microwave oven problem please contact the appropriate manufacturer, an authorized Airstream dealer, or
the Factory Customer Service Department.
Dometic Sales Corporation
2320 Industrial Parkway
P.O. Box 490
Elkhart, IN 46515
219-295-5228

Sharp Electronics Corporation
10 Sharp Plaza
Paramus, New Jersey 07652
201-5112-0055

Both microwave ovens can be removed for service by removing the screws in the vented trim ring. The
trim rings are fastened to microwave oven. After removing the screws, pull straight out on the oven until
the 110-volt plug can be unplugged.

H-4

AIRSTREAM CLASSIC TRAILER OWNERS MANUAL
REFRIGERATOR
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 refrigerator 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 movement 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.

WARNING: Most LP gas appliances used in recreational vehicles are vented to the
outside of the vehicle. When parked close to a gasoline pump, it is possible that gasoline fumes could
enter this type of appliance and ignite the burner flame, CAUSING A FIRE OR AN EXPLOSION.

H-5

AIRSTREAM CLASSIC TRAILER OWNERS MANUAL
WATER HEATER
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 proceeding.

WARNING: 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 several minutes at the kitchen sink before using any electrical
appliance connected to the hot water system. If hydrogen is present there will probably be an
unusual sound such as air escaping through the pipe as the water begins to flow. There should be no
smoking or open flame near the faucet at the time it is open.
Electronic Ignition
The switch used to light your electronic ignition water heater is located in the bathroom above the lavatory
top. When the switch is turned on, the red light will come on indicating the "try" mode is in effect.
Normally the burner will ignite in just a few seconds, and the light will go out. If your LP system hasn't
been used for some time, the system may go into safety lockout (about 20 seconds) before the air is all
expelled from the lines. Turning the switch off for 30 seconds, then back on, reinstates the "try" mode.
110-Volt Operation
In the bathroom you'll see a 110-volt switch for the water heater. This provides power to the heating
element. DO NOT use unless you are sure the water heater is full. (Open a faucet and see if there is a full
stream of water on the hot side)
The 110-volt element may be operated at the same time as the gas burner. To operate the 110-volt by itself
simply turn the electronic gas igniter switch off.
The heating element is 1500 watts so if breakers start to kick out when the air conditioner cycles you may
want to turn the switch off to the heating element.
SAFETY
If your water system is full and cold and the water heater is ignited the system can see pressures as high as
120 psi before the relief valve starts to open. Since the water system normally operates in the 40-psi range
the water expanding does put unusual stress on the system. This normally does not cause any problems, but
the stress is easily alleviated. As the water is heating just open any faucet and run as little as a cup of water.
Just removing this small amount of water reduces the pressure build up significantly.
For fun, watch the sequence of events your family goes through when you park the trailer and ignite the
water heater. More than likely someone will run water and relieve the pressure without even
realizing it.

H-6

AIRSTREAM CLASSIC TRAILER OWNERS MANUAL
HIGH VOLUME ROOF VENT (OPTIONAL)
Manufacturer:

FAN-TASTIC VENT CORP. 4349 S. Dort Hwy.
Burton, MI 48529
1-313-742-0330
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) Open dome approx. 3" or more (ceiling fan has a built in safety switch that will not allow motor to
operate unless dome is partially open).
2) Turn 3- speed knob to desired performance lever (3-Low, 2-Medium, 1-High, O-Off)
3) Open a window or door for airflow,
4) Source of airflow is determined by the window(s) or door(s) opened. For best results, close all roof vents
and open 1 (one) window the greatest distance from your Fan-Tastic Vent ceiling fan,

CAUTION: Never place Lindeen™ or a like cover over ceiling fan. Greatly restricted airflow &
increased sound levels will occur.
WHEN EQUIPPED WITH REVERSE SWITCH
1) Turn fan motor off by:
a) Setting 3-speed switch to "O" - OFF.
b) Closing Dome.
c) Selecting center position on IN/OUT rocker switch
2) Wait for fan blade to stop.
3) Select IN position, brings air from the roof area into your coach (pressurizes inside).
4) Or select OUT position, brings air in through any or all openings in coach and exhausts through the roof.
5) Turn fan motor On.
WHEN EQUIPPED WITH THERMOSTAT:
1) Follow "Operating Instructions: 1 thru 4
2) Select desired temperature or comfort level on thermostat. Fan motor will now start & stop automatically
as interior temperature of coach exceeds or drops below selected level.
NOTE: Fan motor will not start if temperature selected is warmer than interior temperature of
coach.
CLEANING INSTRUCTIONS:
1) Turn fan motor Off.
2) Remove 8 painted flathead Phillips screws around perimeter of screen insert only.
3) Clean screen with soap & water solution and reinstall.

H-7

AIRSTREAM CLASSIC TRAILER OWNERS MANUAL

H-8

AIRSTREAM CLASSIC TRAILER OWNERS MANUAL
(4.5)

(2)
(2)

(8)

(6)

(2)
(2)

(2)

(2)

(8)

#1
#1
#IB
#IC
#ID
#IE
#IF
#IG
#IH
#11
#2
#2A
#2B
#2C
#2D
#2E
#3
#3A
#3B
#3C
#3D
#3E
#4
#4A
#5
#5A
#5B
#5C
#5D
#5E
#5F
#5G
#5H
#51
#5J
#5K
#5L
#5M
#5N
#5P
#5Q
#5R
#5S
#5T
#5T
#5U
#5V
#5W
#5X
#5e#6
#6A
#7
#7A
#7B
#7C
#7D

#1010-81 MAIN BASE
#1144-09 EPDM BULB SEAL
#1024-81 ALIGNMENT SPACER
#1025-05 #8 x 5/8 F.H. PH. t/s ZINC
#1122-05 JAMB SWITCH #9251 - C.H.
#2011-05 6" LIFT ARM -w/RIV. & BUSHING
#1012-05 #10 x 1/2" P.H. PH. p/s - ZINC
#2053-09 P-267T-IA-RD CARLING LIMIT
#2052-00 LYZF - DC - 12 - OMRON
#9002-09 G4W -1 1123 - 95 - TVB - DC - 12 OMRON
#1015-00 "H" MOTOR MOUNT
#4017-09 MOTOR - PM349lx - BLK - 1600 RPM
#1017-03 MOTOR-#31153-140ORPM-CSA
#1019-81 HEYCO - CCL 1/8 - #3302 CLAMP
#1016-05 #8 x 1/2 P.H. PH. t/s -ZINC
#1121-05 B3R - 56 - RING CONNECTOR
#1020-19 DOME-SMOKE
#1023-05 DOME SLIDE - GALVANIZED
#1016-05 #8 x 1/2 P.H. PH. t/s - ZINC
#1021-05 #1260A - HINGE - ALUMINUM
#1022-05 5/32 x 1/4 x 5/16 "o" RIVET ZINC
#2018-81 DOME WEDGE - WHITE NYLON
#1138-00 FAN BLADE - 12" CLR.
FAN BLADE SET SCREW
#1030- SCREEN ASSEMBLY COLORED
#1031-05 3-SPEED SWITCH #3K754
#1033-09 DIAL LABEL - BLK. POLY
#1032-05 NUT - 7/16 x 28 UNEF - ZINC
#1034-09 KNOB - SOFT TOUCH #PT-6-P
#9001-09 DPDT - HOT STAMPED w/CROSS KNOB
#1140-09 1741Z - BLACK
#2143-05 EXTENSION 1 1/8 - ZINC
#1142-05 8-32 x l 3/4 P.H. PH. m/s ZINC
#1038-#88 x 3/8" F.H. PH t/s - COLOR
#1039-#8 x 2 3/4" F.H. PH. w/s - COLOR
#6050-05 DOME LIFT MOTOR - #200.0262A
#6035-MOTOR CAP - COLORED
#1039-#8 x 2 3/4 F.1-1. PH. w/s - COLOR
#9006-05 BT THERMO #3301B
#9015-90 SST THERMO #00-00127-000
#9009-09 LABEL-COOLER-BLACK
#1032-05 NUT - 7/16 x 28 UNEF- ZINC
#1018-81 BT CLAMP - CCL 1/4 - #3304
#9017-00 FUSE #312010 - 10A - FLTW*
#9018-09 FUSE HOLDER #345602 - FLTW*
LABEL OVERRIDE/NORMAL
B-2-1 8 GOLD - SPST-SGMA
#9008-05 6 - 32 x 1/4 F. H. PH. m/s - ZINC
SPSTw/ON/OFF LABEL
#9005-39 RBT. SHW w/OFF WALL THERMO
#1035-SCREEN RING w/ALUM. WIRE - COLOR
#1038-8B x 3/8" F.H. PH. t/s -COLORED
#1040-INTERIOR GARNISH - 3" MAX. - COLOR
#9024-81 INTERIOR GARNISH - 4" MAX. - COLOR
#9019-00 OAK STYLE - FINISHED
#9020-00 OAK RETURN PANEL - ANY SIZE
#9010-#6 x 3/4 F.H. PH. t/s - COLORED

NOTES

H-9

AIRSTREAM CLASSIC TRAILER OWNERS MANUAL
SPECIFICATIONS
Note: All weights were made on prototype vehicles. Your production trailer may vary.
For the weight specifications of your trailer read the weight label and check the manufacturing tag
on the side of your trailer. For label location, see information under "Loading" section of this
manual
25’

28’

30’

31’

34’

30’ S/O

30’
S/O
CSA

34’
S/O
Lounge

34’ S/O
Lounge
CSA

34’
S/O
Dinette

34’
S/O
CSA
Dinette

Hitch Weight
(lbs.)

870

730

730

890

820

1,025

1,080

1,490

1,490

1,250

1,250

GVWR (lbs.)

7,300

8,600

8,700

8,700

9,800

9,100

10,300

10,500

11,500

10,500

11,500

686

1,076

906

256

1,166

536

1,736

456

1,456

676

1,676

6,050

6,785

7,230

7,880

8,070

8,000

8,000

8,760

8,760

9,022

8,890

MODEL

CCC
UVW (lbs.)

*10’1 ½” with slide extended.
Gross Vehicular Weight Rating (GVWR): is the maximum permissible weight of the motorhome when
fully. It includes all weight at all vehicle axles.
Unloaded Vehicle Weight (UVW) of a motorhome is the weight of a motorhome as manufactured at the
factory. It includes all weight at the axles with full generator fluids, including fuel, engine oil, and coolants.
Cargo Carrying Capacity (CCC) is equal to GVWR minus each of the following: UVW, full fresh (potable)
water weight (including water heater), and full LP-Gas weight.
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.
GAWR (Gross Axle Weight rating are located on the manufacturing tag that is positioned on the roadside
side sheet of your travel trailer.
Continued

I-1

AIRSTREAM CLASSIC TRAILER OWNERS MANUAL
SPECIFICATIONS
25’

28’

30’

31’

34’

30’ S/O

30’
S/O
CSA

34’
S/O
Lounge

34’ S/O
Lounge
CSA

34’
S/O
Dinette

34’
S/O
CSA
Dinette

Exterior Length

25’9”

29’

31’

31’

34’10”

31’

31’

34’10”

34’10”

34’10”

34’10”

Exterior Width

8’5½”

8’5½”

8’5½”

8’5½”

8’5½”

8’5½”*

8’5½”*

8’5½”*

8’5½”*

8’5½”*

8’5½”*

Interior Width

8’1”

8’1”

8’1”

8’1”

8’1”

8’1”

8’1”

8’1”

8’1”

8’1”

8’1”

Exterior Height
W / AC

9’7½”

9’7½”

9’7½”

9’7½”

9’7½”

9’7½”

9’7½”

9’7½”

9’7½”

9’7½”

9’7½”

Interior Height
W / AC

6’3½”

6’3½”

6’3½”

6’3½”

6’3½”

6’3½”

6’3½”

6’3½”

6’3½”

6’3½”

6’3½”

*Hitch Ball
Height

18 ¾”

18 ¾”

18 ¾”

18 ¾”

18 ¾”

18 ¾”

18 ¾”

18 ¾”

19 3/4”

18 ¾”

19 ¾”

Tire Size

ST225/
75R15

ST225/
75R15

ST225/
75R15

ST225/
75R15

ST225/7
5R15

ST225/
75R15

ST225/
75R15

ST225/
75R15

ST225/
75R15

ST225/
75R15

ST225/
75R15

54

54

54

54

54

54

54

54

54

54

54

39

37

37

37

37

37

37

37

37

37

37

30

39

39

39

39

39

39

39

39

37

37

MODEL

Fresh water
(gal.)
Gray water
(gal.)
Black water
(gal).

Alignment:

Toe In 0 - 1/8" (All Models)
Camber 0 - 1 ½ ° positive (All Models)

Battery

12 Volt Deep cycle (All Models)

Tire Inflation (PSI) Cold

ST225/75RI5 LRD

65 psi

*Hitch Ball Height
The proper height will vary according to the weight you carry and the tires you use. However, checking the
height on your trailer is relatively easy:
1. With trailer on fairly level ground measure from ground to bottom of frame, front and rear.
2. Adjust front jack until measurements are equal
3. Now measure from ground to the inside top of ball coupler. This figure is the hitch height. The hitch ball
is then usually set ½” to 1" higher, according to the spring weight of your tow vehicle, to allow for it to
settle when the trailer is hitched up.

I-2



Source Exif Data:
File Type                       : PDF
File Type Extension             : pdf
MIME Type                       : application/pdf
PDF Version                     : 1.2
Linearized                      : Yes
Create Date                     : 2003:01:14 15:35:40
Producer                        : Acrobat Distiller 4.0 for Windows
Modify Date                     : 2003:01:14 15:35:40-05:00
Page Count                      : 170
Page Mode                       : UseNone
EXIF Metadata provided by EXIF.tools

Navigation menu