Airstream Caravel 2020 Owner's Manual

2020 Caravel

Owner’s Manual

Disclaimer And Copyright

All information, illustrations and specications contained in this manual are based on the latest product information

available at the time of publication approval. If and when new materials and production techniques are developed

that can improve the quality of its product, or material substitutions are necessary due to availability, Airstream

reserves the right to make such changes.

Airstream Caravel Travel Trailer Owner’s Manual

©2019 Airstream, Inc. All rights reserved

Publication Date: June 2019

REV# 02

TABLE OF CONTENTS

INTRODUCTION . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1-1

SAFETY . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2-1

Safety Precautions . . . . . . . . . . . 2-2

Chemical Sensitivity and Ventilation . . . . 2-2

Alarms and Detectors . . . . . . . . . 2-3

GENERAL INFORMATION . . . . . . . . . . 3-1

Limited Warranty Policy . . . . . . . . . 3-2

Service . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3-5

Camping . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3-6

FLOOR PLANS AND

SPECIFICATIONS . . . . . . . . . . 4-1

Floor Plans . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4-2

Specications . . . . . . . . . . . . 4-3

INTERIOR . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 5-1

General Information and Cleaning . . . . . 5-3

Plumbing . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 5-5

Electrical . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 5-6

Entertainment Systems . . . . . . . . .5-10

Appliances . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 5-11

EXTERIOR . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 6-1

TOWING . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 7-1

Tow Vehicle . . . . . . . . . . . . . 7-2

Brakes . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 7-2

Towing Tips and Information . . . . . . . 7-5

MAINTENANCE . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 8-1

Maintenance Schedule . . . . . . . . . 8-2

Suggested Maintenance and

Replacement Parts . . . . . . . . 8-3

Tires . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 8-5

Power Jack . . . . . . . . . . . . . 8-9

Battery (Lead Acid) . . . . . . . . . .8-10

Water Pump . . . . . . . . . . . . .8-11

Fresh Water Tanks and Draining . . . . .8-11

Black and Gray Water Tank Draining . . . .8-12

Winterizing and Storage . . . . . . . .8-14

Main Door Care . . . . . . . . . . . .8-15

Windows . . . . . . . . . . . . . .8-15

Electrical Diagrams . . . . . . . . . .8-16

FAQs and Answers . . . . . . . . . .8-27

Cleaning . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 6-2

General Information and Operation . . . . 6-3

2020 Caravel

NOTES

2020 Caravel

Section 1

INTRODUCTION

The Owner’s 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 maintaining and
repairing the appliances in their trailer. For this reason,
the service information found in this manual is directed
toward those with average mechanical skills.

We also realize that you may be more familiar with
one area than you are with another. Only you know
your capabilities and limitations. We want you to use

this manual and hope you will nd the information

contained in it useful. However, should you ever feel
that you may be in need of assistance, please consult
your Airstream dealer for advice on service that may be
required.

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

nd the manufacturer’s information, supplied in a

packet included with this manual, to be more detailed.

All information, illustrations, and specications

contained in this manual are based on the latest
product information available at the time of publication
approval. If and when new materials and production
techniques are developed that can improve the quality
of its product, or material substitutions are necessary
due to availability, Airstream reserves the right to make
such changes.

We have provided many important safety messages
in this manual. Always read and obey all safety
messages.

WARNING

A warning is used for a hazardous situation which,

if not avoided, could result in death or serious

injury to persons.

CAUTION

A caution is used to advise caution when

performing actions that could result in minor or

moderate injury to persons and/or damage to

equipment.

NOTE

A note is used to address practices not related

to personal injury. This applies to hazardous

situations involving property damage only.

Optional items may be available on all, or particular
models. Additionally, some optional items can only be
included during the manufacturing phase and cannot
later be added to the trailer.

The inclusion of optional items information in this
manual does not imply or suggest the availability,

application, suitability, or inclusion for any specic unit.

2020 Caravel 1-1

Introduction

NOTES

2020 Caravel1-2

Section 2

SAFETY

SAFETY � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � 2-1

SAFETY PRECAUTIONS � � � � � � � � � 2-2

Transporting of Passengers � � � � � � � 2-2

Towing and Weight Distribution � � � � � � 2-2

Controlling Sway � � � � � � � � � � � 2-2

Lug Nut Torquing � � � � � � � � � � � 2-2

Tire Safety � � � � � � � � � � � � � � 2-2

Appliances and Equipment � � � � � � � 2-2

Mold � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � 2-2

CHEMICAL SENSITIVITY AND

VENTILATION � � � � � � � � � � � 2-2

Chemical Sensitivity � � � � � � � � � � 2-2

Formaldehyde � � � � � � � � � � � � 2-3

Ventilation � � � � � � � � � � � � � � 2-3

Do Not Smoke � � � � � � � � � � � � 2-3

Medical Advice � � � � � � � � � � � � 2-3

ALARMS AND DETECTORS � � � � � � � 2-3

Smoke Alarm � � � � � � � � � � � � � 2-3

Carbon Monoxide Detector � � � � � � � 2-4

This Carbon Monoxide Detector Is Not 2-4

Important Safety Precautions � � � � 2-4

What Is Carbon Monoxide � � � � � � � � 2-4

Conditions can result in potentially

dangerous CO situations � � � 2-5

Symptoms of Carbon Monoxide Poisoning � 2-5

Liquid Propane Gas (LPG) Detector � � � � 2-5

Low Voltage � � � � � � � � � � � 2-5

Detector Test � � � � � � � � � � 2-6

Fire Extinguisher � � � � � � � � � � � 2-6

2020 Caravel 2-1

Safety

Safety Precautions

Many things can be construed as safety related, but
the most important is your common sense� If you are

careless with matches, cigarettes, ammable material,

or any other hazardous material, you surely realize
your potential for accidents is greatly increased�

You will nd many safety recommendations in this

section and throughout the manual� The following
recommendations are the ones we consider to be the
most important�

Transporting of Passengers

The transporting of people in the trailer puts their
lives at risk and may be illegal� The trailer does not
have seat belts, therefore, it is not designed to carry
passengers�

Towing and Weight Distribution

Weight distribution is an important factor when loading
your travel trailer� A recreational vehicle with the cargo

distributed properly will result in efcient, trouble-

free towing� Refer to Section 7 - Towing for more
information�

Controlling Sway

Tire Safety

Properly maintained tires improve the steering,
stopping, traction, and load-carrying capability of your
vehicle� Refer to Section 8 - Maintenance for tire care
and safety information� Also, be sure to read the Tire
Safety Manual Addendum included with your owner’s
packet�

Appliances and Equipment

The appliances (stove, refrigerator, etc�) and equipment
(hot water heater, furnace, etc�) typically operate on

LP gas. LP gas is ammable and is contained under
high pressure. Improper use may result in a re and/

or explosion� Make sure to follow all instructions and

warnings in this manual as well as those in the specic

owner’s manuals of the appliances and equipment�

Mold

Mold and mold spores exist throughout indoor and
outdoor environments� There is no practical way
to eliminate all mold and mold spores in the indoor
environment, however, the way to control indoor
mold growth is to control moisture� Refer to Section
3 - General Information for information on controlling
condensation and molds�

Sway or shtailing is the sideways action of a trailer

caused by external forces� Excessive sway of your
travel trailer can lead to the rollover of the trailer and
tow vehicle, resulting in serious injury or death� Refer
to Section 7 - Towing for more information�

Lug Nut Torquing

Making sure wheel mounting nuts (lug nuts) on
trailer wheels are tight and properly torqued is an
important responsibility that trailer owners and users
need to understand and practice� Inadequate and/or
inappropriate wheel nut torque (tightness) is a major
cause of lug nuts loosening in service� Loose lug nuts
can rapidly lead to a wheel separation resulting in
potentially serious safety consequences� See torque
pattern in the Section 8 - Maintenance for tightening

sequence, and follow torque specications in Section
4 - Floor Plans and Specications.

NOTE

Torque Aluminum Wheels to 110 ft. lbs and Steel

Wheels to 100 ft. lbs.

Chemical Sensitivity and Ventilation

Chemical Sensitivity

Immediately after the purchase of your new
recreational vehicle, and sometimes, after it has been
closed up for an extended period of time, you may
notice a strong odor and/or experience a chemical
sensitivity� This is not a defect in your recreational
vehicle� Like your home, there are many different
products used in the construction of recreational
vehicles, such as carpet, linoleum, plywood, insulation,
upholstery, etc� Formaldehyde is also the by-product of
combustion and numerous household products, such
as some paints, coatings, and cosmetics� However,
recreational vehicles are much smaller than your home
and therefore, the exchange of air inside a recreational

vehicle is signicantly less than in a home. These

products, when new or when exposed to elevated
temperatures and/or humidity, may off-gas different
chemicals, including formaldehyde� This off-gassing, in
combination with the minimal air exchange, may cause
you to experience irritation of the eyes, nose, and
throat and sometimes headache, nausea, and a variety
of asthma-like symptoms� Elderly persons and young
children, as well as anyone with a history of asthma,
allergies, or lung problems, may be more susceptible to
the effects of off-gassing�

2-2 2020 Caravel

Safety

Formaldehyde

Formaldehyde is a naturally occurring substance and
is an important chemical used widely by industries
to manufacture building materials and numerous
household products� It is also a by-product of
combustion and certain other natural processes�
Thus, it may be present inside the trailer with some
individuals being sensitive to it� Ventilation of the unit
normally reduces the exposure to a comfortable level�

Trace levels of formaldehyde are released from
smoking, cooking, use of soaps and detergents, such
as carpet shampoos, cosmetics, and many other
household products� Some people are very sensitive to
formaldehyde while others may not have any reaction
to the same levels of formaldehyde� Amounts released
decrease over time�

Your Airstream trailer was manufactured using
low formaldehyde-emitting (LFE) wood products,
use of which is typical in the recreation vehicle
industry� Formaldehyde has an important role in
the adhesives used to bind wood products used in
recreation vehicles� The wood products in your trailer
are designed to emit formaldehyde at or lower than
industry guidelines and should not produce symptoms
in most individuals�

While LFE wood products typically do not emit
formaldehyde at a level that would cause symptoms
in most individuals, it is possible, though not likely, for
that to occur when the trailer is not properly ventilated�
Ventilation is an essential requirement for trailer use,
for many reasons� Any effects of formaldehyde can be
greatly reduced by actions such as opening windows,
opening roof vents, running the air conditioner, or
some combination thereof� In addition, the emission of
formaldehyde by these products naturally decreases
rapidly over time�

Airstream strongly suggests that you take measures to
properly ventilate your trailer on a regular basis� If you
have any questions with respect to proper ventilation
of your trailer, please do not hesitate to contact your
dealer or Airstream�

Ventilation

To reduce or lessen exposure to chemicals from off­gassing, it is of utmost importance that you ventilate
your recreational vehicle� Ventilation should occur
frequently after purchase and at times when the
temperatures and humidity are elevated� Remember,
off-gassing is accelerated by heat and humidity� Open
windows, exhaust vents, and doors� Operate ceiling

and/or other fans, roof air conditioners, and furnaces�
Use a fan to force stale air out and bring fresh air in�

Decreasing the ow of air by sealing the recreational

vehicle increases the formaldehyde level in the
vehicle’s indoor air�

Do Not Smoke

It is recommended that you do not smoke inside your
recreational vehicle� In addition to causing damage
to your recreational vehicle, tobacco smoke releases
formaldehyde and other toxic chemicals�

Medical Advice

Questions regarding the effects of formaldehyde on
your health should be submitted to your doctor or local
health department�

Alarms and Detectors

Smoke Alarm

A smoke alarm is provided with your trailer� A manual
pertaining to the alarm is included in the paper work
given to you at the dealership� Please read and follow
all care, maintenance, and safety information contained
in the smoke alarm manual�

The smoke alarm will beep once a minute for at least
30 days when the battery is weak� The battery must
immediately be replaced with a fresh one�

WARNING

Alarm battery is shipped deactivated. Check your

alarm for proper battery installation. To activate

battery, new Airstream owners must install

included battery to proper orientation.

WARNING

Smoke alarms have a limited life. The unit should

be replaced immediately if it is not operating

properly. You should always replace a smoke alarm

after 10 years from the date of purchase. Write the

purchase date on the space provided on the back

of unit.

If service is required or you have not received a smoke
alarm user’s manual, please contact the manufacturer,
your dealer, or Airstream Customer Service�

2020 Caravel 2-3

Safety

Carbon Monoxide Detector

Carefully read and understand the contents of the
provided instruction manual before using the alarm�

Store the manual in a safe place for future reference�
Pay particular attention to the safety warnings� Pass
the manual on to any subsequent users of the alarm�

If service is required or you have not received a
Carbon Monoxide Detector user’s manual, please
contact the manufacturer, your dealer, or Airstream
Customer Service�

WARNING

Failure to replace this product by the “REPLACE

BY DATE” printed on the alarm cover may result in

death by Carbon Monoxide poisoning. Replace By
Date is six (6) years from the date of manufacture.

WARNING

Activation of your Carbon Monoxide alarm’s

audible horn indicates the presence of Carbon

Monoxide that can kill you. Leave the area

immediately!

WARNING

This product is intended for use in ordinary, indoor

locations of family living units. It is not designed
to measure compliance with occupational safety
and health administration (OSHA) commercial or

industrial standards. Individuals who are at special

risk from Carbon Monoxide exposure by reason of

age, pregnancy, or medical condition may consider

using warning devices which provide audible and

visual signals for Carbon Monoxide concentration

under 30 ppm. If in doubt, consult your medical

practitioner.

This Carbon Monoxide Detector Is Not

• Designed to detect smoke, re, or any gas other than
Carbon Monoxide�

• To be seen as a substitute for the proper servicing of
fuel-burning appliances�

• To be used on an intermittent basis, or as a portable
alarm for spillage of combustion products from fuel­burning appliances�

NOTE

This Carbon Monoxide detector is designed for

indoor use only. Do not expose to rain or moisture.

Do not knock or drop the alarm. Do not open
or tamper with the alarm as this could cause

malfunction. The alarm will not protect against

the risk of Carbon Monoxide poisoning when the

batteries are dead or missing. The alarm will only

indicate the presence of CO gas at the sensor.

Important Safety Precautions

• Carbon Monoxide is produced by the incomplete
combustion of fuels such as wood, charcoal, coal,

heating oil, parafn, gasoline, natural gas, propane,

butane, etc�

• Ideally, it is recommended that a Carbon Monoxide
detector should be installed in or near every room
that has a fuel burning appliance such as any room
heaters, water heaters, cookers, grills, etc�

• Ensure that the alarm horn can be heard by all those
who are intended to hear it� Seek medical help if it
is suspected that a user of the RV is suffering from
Carbon Monoxide poisoning�

• If the alarm sounds, make sure to investigate the
problem� Ignoring the alarm may result in sickness,
injury or death� (CO may be present even if nothing
is seen or smelled by the user�)

• Room spaces should be well ventilated when
household cleaning supplies are used as these may
cause a false alarm�

• Alarm should be tested once per week� If further
details are required, which do not appear in this
manual, contact BRK Brands Inc� First Alert�

What Is Carbon Monoxide

Carbon Monoxide (CO) is a highly poisonous gas that
is released when fuels are burned� It is invisible, has

no smell, and is therefore, very difcult to detect with

the human senses� Under normal conditions, in a room
where fuel-burning appliances are well maintained and
correctly ventilated, the amount of CO released into the
room by appliances is not dangerous�

These fuels include: wood, coal, charcoal, oil, natural
gas, gasoline, kerosene, and propane� Common
appliances are often sources of CO� If they are not
properly maintained, are improperly ventilated, or
malfunction, CO levels can rise quickly� CO is a real
danger in air-tight trailers with added insulation, sealed

windows, and other weatherproong can trap CO

inside�

2-4 2020 Caravel

Safety

The following conditions can result in potentially dangerous CO situations

1� Excessive spillage or reverse-venting of fuel-

burning appliances caused by outdoor conditions,
such as:

• Wind direction and/or velocity, including high
gusts of wind� Heavy air in the vent pipes (cold/
humid air with extended periods between
cycles)�

• Negative pressure differential resulting from
use of exhaust fans�

• Simultaneous operation of several fuel-burning
appliances competing for limited internal air�

• Vent-pipe connections vibrating loose from
clothes dryers, furnaces, or water heaters�

• Obstructions in or unconventional vent­pipe designs which can amplify the above
situations�

2� Extended use of un-vented fuel burning devices�

3� Temperature increase that can trap exhaust gases

near the ground�

Symptoms of Carbon Monoxide Poisoning

• Mild Exposure - Slight headache, nausea, vomiting,

fatigue (u-like symptoms).

• Medium Exposure - Throbbing headache,
drowsiness, confusion, fast heart rate�

• Extreme Exposure - Convulsions, unconsciousness,
heart and lung failure� Exposure to carbon monoxide
can cause brain damage and/or death�

WARNING

Many causes of reported CARBON MONOXIDE

POISONING indicate that while victims are aware

that they are not well, they become so disoriented

that they are unable to save themselves by either

exiting the area or calling for assistance. Also

young children and pets may be the rst to be

affected.

Liquid Propane Gas (LPG) Detector

This detector has a seven year life; see end-of-life

notication in LPG detector manual. Please read entire

detector manual before operating unit�

The LPG detector is located in the galley area� LPG
is a mixture of gases produced and sold commercially
as a fuel for heating and cooking appliances� LPG is

highly ammable and, as a result, can be explosive

if ignited under certain circumstances� LPG is

heavier than air and, if conned in a closed space,
will accumulate close to the oor. The LPG detector

is designed to alarm at less than 25% of the legal
explosive limit� It will provide a visual and audible alarm
by sounding an alarm every 5 seconds and lighting the
red LED�

Your LPG detector is wired directly to your trailer
battery and incorporates a 1 amp, in-line fuse� It has no
internal battery backup� In normal stand-by mode, the
LED indicator will be green�

Low Voltage

The operating voltage for the detector is 12 VDC� The
actual voltage supplied to the detector in a recreational
vehicle may drop below the minimum 8 VDC� The
detector provides the user with a low voltage warning
before reaching that level and will provide additional
distinct, clear warnings and alarms after the 8 VDC
level is reached� However, if available power supplied
to the unit is below the operating voltage of 8 VDC,
the detector will not detect gas or provide protection
against dangerous levels of LPG�

WARNING

Test units used in RVs after the vehicle has been in

storage, before each trip, and once a week while in
use. Failure to test units used in RV’s as described

may remove your protection.

2020 Caravel 2-5

Safety

Detector Test

The Test/Reset button is used to verify proper alarm
function� Executing the test function sounds the alarm
and lights up the red LED� The test will sound the
alarm twice, with four beeps in 1 second, followed by
5 seconds of silence� By pressing the button, you can
verify that the alarm sounds and the LED functions
properly�

WARNING

Have a qualied technician check your LPG system

annually or if you detect any signs of leaks or

malfunctions.

WARNING

Activation of this detector indicates the possible

presence of LPG, which can cause an explosion

and/or re, causing serious injury or death. This

normally indicates a leak in the LPG installation

or an LPG appliance. Extinguish all open ames,

open your windows and door, and evacuate the

unit immediately. Do not activate any electrical

switch. Turn off the LPG at your gas tank(s). Do not

re-enter your unit until a qualied repair technician

has corrected the problem and certied the system

as safe.

Fire Extinguisher

The re extinguisher should be checked for charge 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�

Check with your local re department for professional
advice on its operation and use if you nd the

directions on the extinguisher unclear� They will be able
and willing to assist you and your family�

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 that 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.

NOTE

Refer to Section 5 - Interior and Section 6 -

Exterior for additional LPG warnings and safety

information.

2-6 2020 Caravel

Section 3

GENERAL INFORMATION

GENERAL INFORMATION � � � � � � � � � � 3-1

LIMITED WARRANTY POLICY � � � � � � 3-2

This Limited Warranty Covers � � � � � � 3-2

Coverage Ends � � � � � � � � � � � � 3-2

Limitation Of Implied Warranties � � � � � 3-2

Disclaimer Of Incidental And Consequential

Damages � � � � � � � � � � � � 3-2

Repair Remedy � � � � � � � � � � � � 3-2

Back-Up Remedy � � � � � � � � � � � 3-2

What Is Not Covered � � � � � � � � � 3-3

Obtaining Warranty Service � � � � � � � 3-4

Events That Discharge Airstream’s Obligations

Under This Limited Warranty � � � � 3-4

Airstream Limited Warranty Excludes � � � 3-4

Normal Wear � � � � � � � � � � 3-4

Accident � � � � � � � � � � � � 3-4

Abuse � � � � � � � � � � � � � 3-4

Chemical Gassing � � � � � � � � 3-5

Exposure � � � � � � � � � � � � 3-5

Overload � � � � � � � � � � � � 3-5

SERVICE � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � 3-5

CAMPING � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � 3-6

Suggested Pre-Travel Check List � � � � � 3-6

Interior � � � � � � � � � � � � � 3-6

Exterior � � � � � � � � � � � � � 3-6

Trailer Equipment and Accessories � � 3-6

Motoring Essentials � � � � � � � � 3-7

Overnight Stop � � � � � � � � � � � � 3-7

Extended Stay � � � � � � � � � � � � 3-8

Leveling � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � 3-8

Stabilizing Jacks3-8

Effects Of Prolonged Occupancy � � � � � 3-8

Tips To Controlling Condensation � � 3-9

Molds � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � 3-9

Contributing Factors To Mold Growth � 3-9

Inhibiting Mold Growth � � � � � � � 3-9

Waste Water System � � � � � � � � � �3-10

Things Not To Put Into

Toilet Or Drains � � � � � � �3-10

Winter Traveling � � � � � � � � � � � �3-13

Safety � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � �3-13

Reporting Safety Defects � � � � � � � � 3-6

2020 Caravel 3-1

General Information

Limited Warranty Policy

This Limited Warranty Covers

(i) The rst retail owner and any subsequent owners
(ii) ONLY those portions of a NEW travel trailer not

excluded under the section “What is Not Covered”,
when sold by an authorized dealership and used for
its intended purpose of recreational travel and camp-

ing; and, (iii) ONLY defects in workmanship performed

and/or materials used to assemble those portions
of your travel trailer not excluded under the section
“What is Not Covered”� “Defect” means the failure of
the workmanship performed and/or materials used to
conform with the design and manufacturing specica­tion and tolerances of Airstream� The Limited Warranty
is transferable and the subsequent owner’s warranty
coverage period shall be the unexpired balance of the
original warranty coverage period� A completed copy
of the Warranty Transfer Form must be submitted to
Airstream at the time of resale�

When you request and accept the performance of
warranty repairs under the terms of this Limited
Warranty, you are accepting all terms of this Limited
Warranty, including by way of example, warranty
limitations and disclaimers, the forum selection clause
and the clause reducing the time period when suit must

be led for breach.

If any term of condition in this limited warranty conicts
with your state’s Uniform Commercial Code (“UCC”) as

interpreted by courts within your state, the provisions
of your state’s UCC are varied as allowed for by USS
1-302�

Coverage Ends

36 Months after the rst retail owner rst takes delivery

of the travel trailer from an authorized dealership�
Any action for breach of this warranty or any implied
warranties must be commenced not more than 37
months after breach� Some states do not allow the
reduction of the time when a breach of warranty claim
must be commenced, so the reduction in time when a
breach of warranty claim must be commenced may not
apply to you�

Limitation Of Implied Warranties

Implied warranties arising under applicable law, if
any, including but not limited to implied warranties of

merchantability or tness for a particular purpose, are

hereby limited in duration to the term of this limited
warranty and are limited in scope of coverage to those
portions of the travel trailer covered by this limited
warranty� There are no express warranties or any

implied warranties of merchantability on those portions
of the travel trailer excluded from coverage� There is
no warranty of any nature made by Airstream beyond
that contained in this limited warranty� No person has
authority to enlarge, amend or modify this limited war­ranty� The dealer is not airstream’s agent� Airstream is
not responsible for any undertaking, representation or
warranty made by any dealer or others beyond those
expressly set forth within this limited warranty� Some
states do not allow limitations on how long an implied
warranty lasts, so the above limitations may not apply
to you�

Disclaimer Of Incidental And Consequential Damages

Airstream disclaims any and all incidental and
consequential damages, including but not limited
to expenses such as transportation to and from
dealerships and Airstream repair facilities, loss of time,
loss of pay, loss of use, inconvenience, commercial

loss (including but not limited to lost prots), towing

charges, bus fares, vehicle rental, service call
charges, gasoline expenses, incidental charges such
as telephone calls and facsimile transmissions, and
expenses for lodging and moisture damage such
as mold and mildew as well as rust and corrosion�
This disclaimer is independent of any failure of the
essential purpose of any warranties provided with the
travel trailer, and shall survive any determination that
a warranty failed of its essential purpose� 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�

Repair Remedy

Airstream’s sole and exclusive obligation is to repair
any covered defects discovered within the warranty

coverage period if: (1) within 10 days of your discovery

of a defect you notify Airstream OR an authorized

dealership of the defect; AND (2) you deliver your

travel trailer to Airstream OR an authorized dealership
at your cost and expense�

Back-Up Remedy

If the primary repair remedy fails to successfully
cure any defect after a reasonable number of repair
attempts, your sole and exclusive remedy shall be to
have Airstream pay an independent service shop of
your choice to perform repairs to the defect OR if the
defect is incurable, have Airstream pay diminution in
value damages� The repair remedy and the back-up
remedy must both be exhausted and these remedies

must fail to fulll their essential purpose before you can

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General Information

seek any legal or equitable relief� This limited warranty
is not a warranty that promises or extends to future
performance because the warranty does not make a
representation on how your travel trailer will perform in
the future but instead represents only what the remedy
will be if a defect exists�

Unless prohibited by state law, repairs will not extend
the time when you must commence a breach of
warranty claim and shall not extend the warranty
coverage period� Any performance of repairs after
the warranty coverage ends OR any performance of
repairs to those portions of your travel trailer excluded
from coverage shall be considered “good will” repairs�
Warranty repairs should be expected� Airstream
may use new and/or remanufactured parts and/or
components of substantially equal quality to complete
a repair� Damage to interior or exterior surfaces, trim,
upholstery and other appearance items may occur
at the factory during assembly, during delivery of the
travel trailer to your selling dealer or on the selling
dealer’s lot� Normally, any damage is detected and
corrected at the factory or by the selling dealer during
the inspection process� If you discover any damage
when you take delivery of your travel trailer, you MUST
notify your dealer OR Airstream within 10 days of
the date of purchase to have damage repaired at no
cost to you� Minor adjustments, such as adjustments
to the interior or exterior doors, drawers, latches
will be performed at no cost to you by your selling

dealer during the rst 90 days of warranty coverage;

thereafter, such adjustments are your exclusive
responsibility as normal maintenance�

What Is Not Covered

1� Tires, batteries, stereo, television, range/stove,

furnace, refrigerator, air conditioner, toilet, water
heater, microwave, generator, glass breakage, and
other materials, parts and components warranted
by persons or entities other than Airstream� Please
refer to the warranties of component manufacturers
for terms and conditions of coverage;

2� Accessories and equipment that are working as

designed, but which you are unhappy because of
the design

3� Any part or component of the travel trailer that was

not manufactured or installed by Airstream;

4� Normal deterioration due to wear or exposure,

including but not limited to upholstery, ooring rust,

corrosion, oxidation, and cosmetic blemishes;

5� Normal maintenance and service items, including

but not limited to light bulbs, fuses, lubricants,
sealants and seals, door adjustments, and awning
tension;

6� After-market equipment or accessories installed on

the travel trailer after completion of manufacture
by Airstream, or any defects or damage caused by
such items;

7� Travel trailers not purchased through an authorized

dealer of Airstream and travel trailers purchased
directly or indirectly through auction, salvage,
repossession, or other non-customary sale means;

8� Any travel trailer used other than for temporary

recreation purposes, including, but not limited
to, use of the travel trailer for residential, rental,
business and commercial purpose or any travel
trailer purchased by, registered by, or titled in the
name of a business association (such as any LLC,

corporation, or partnership). If the travel trailer
owner or user les a tax form claiming a business
or commercial tax benet or income related to the

travel trailer, it shall be irrefutable that the travel
trailer has been used for rental, commercial or
business purposes�

9� Defects or damage caused by, in whole or in

part, or in any way related to: Accidents, misuse

(including off-road use), or negligence; Failure

to comply with the instructions set forth in any
owner’s manual provided with the travel trailer;

Alteration or modication of the travel trailer
except such alterations or modications approved

in writing by Airstream; Acts of God or other
environmental conditions, such as lightning,
hail, salt causing rust, or other chemicals in the
atmosphere; De-icing agents or other chemicals
applied to the travel trailer; Failure to properly
maintain or service the travel trailer, including
but not limited to the maintenance of lubricants,
sealants, and seals; Condensation and the results
of condensation including water damage and
the growth of mold or mildew� Mold and mildew
are natural growths given certain environmental
conditions and are not covered by the terms of this
Limited Warranty; The addition of weight to the
travel trailer that causes the total weight to exceed
applicable weight ratings, or addition of weight
causing improper distribution of the weight of the
travel trailer; Failure to seek and obtain repairs in
a timely manner; Failure to use reasonable efforts
to mitigate damage caused by defects; Failure

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General Information

to properly ventilate the travel trailer; Improper
electric power supply or improper travel trailer
hookup to other facilities; Acts or omissions of any
person or entity other than Airstream� (Note: An
irrefutable presumption arises that the travel trailer
has been used for commercial and/or business

purposes if the travel trailer owner or user les

a tax form claiming any business or commercial

tax benet related to the travel trailer, or if the

travel trailer is purchased, registered or titled in a
business name

Obtaining Warranty Service

In order to obtain warranty service under this Limited
Warranty, the owner must do all of the following:

1� Owner and dealer representative must complete

and return the Customer Performance Checkout
within 10 days from delivery of the trailer,

2� Notify Airstream or one of its authorized,

independent dealers of any claimed defect within
the warranty period or 10 days thereafter,

3� Provide notication of a defect within 10 days of

discovery of that defect, and

4� Promptly return the travel trailer to an authorized

Airstream dealer or Airstream for repairs�

If you believe a defect covered by this Limited Warranty
still exists after an attempted repair by an authorized
Airstream dealer, you must contact Airstream at the
following address, specifying:

1� The complete serial number of the travel trailer,

2� The date of original purchase and the date of

original delivery,

3� The name of the selling dealer, and

4� The nature of the problem and the steps or service

which have been performed�

Airstream, INC�

428 West Pike Street

P�O� Box 629

Jackson Center, Ohio 45334-0629

Attention: Owner Relations Department

Airstream may direct you to an authorized Airstream
dealer, or may request that you bring your travel trailer
to the Airstream factory in Jackson Center, Ohio for
repairs�

Airstream does not control the scheduling of repairs
at its authorized Airstream dealers, and repairs at the
Airstream factory may not be immediately available�
Therefore, you may encounter delays in scheduling
repairs and/or completion of repairs� All costs
associated with transporting the travel trailer for any
warranty service shall be the sole responsibility of the
owner�Events That Discharge Airstream’s Obligations
Under This Limited Warranty

Misuse or neglect, accidents, unauthorized alteration,
failure to provide reasonable and necessary

maintenance (see Owner’s Manual), damage caused
by off road use, collision, re, theft, vandalism,

explosions, overloading in excess of rated capacities,
and use of the travel trailer for commercial, business,
or rental purposes shall discharge Airstream from any
express or implied warranty obligation to repair any
resulting defect�

Legal remedies: exclusive jurisdiction for deciding
legal disputes relating to alleged breach of warranty or
representations of any nature rests in the courts within
the state of manufacture, which is Ohio� Also, this
limited warranty shall be interpreted and construed in
accordance with the laws of the state of Ohio� Any and
all claims, controversies, and causes of action arising
out of or relating to this limited warranty, whether
sounding contract, tort or statute, shall be governed
by the laws of the State of Ohio, including its statute of

limitations, without giving effect to any conict of law

rule that would result in the application of the laws of a
different jurisdiction�

Airstream Limited Warranty Excludes

Normal Wear

Items such as curtains, upholstery, oor coverings,

window, door, and vent seals will show wear or may
even wear out within the 3-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 notied
and the person making the delivery veries the

damage� Glass breakage, whether obviously struck or
mysterious, is always accidental and covered by most
insurance policies�

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General Information

Abuse

Lack of customer care and/or improper maintenance
will result in early failure for which Airstream cannot be
held responsible�

Chemical Gassing

Chemical gassing is not a “Defect” in your recreational
vehicle and is not covered by the Limited Warranty�
Please follow the recommendations in this manual to
address this concern�

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 renery chemicals of a sulfurous nature
are harmful to nishes 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�

It is the responsibility of the owner to take such
preventative measures as are necessary to maintain
the exterior caulking and sealer of your unit� It is the
responsibility of the owner to use reasonable, prudent
care to prevent foreseeable secondary damage from
rain, plumbing leaks, and the natural accumulation
of moisture in your unit, such as a delaminated

oor; stained upholstery, carpeting, or drapes, mold

formation and growth, furniture damage, etc� Mold is a
natural growth, given certain environmental conditions,
and is not covered by the terms of the Limited
Warranty�

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 certication label. Load distribution has
a denite 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 this Owner’s Manual or gross
vehicle weight rating plate�

The axle is manufactured to a tolerance of 1-degree
camber and 1/8 in� 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, of 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�

Service

Before leaving the factory, every vital part of the trailer
is tested for performance� Each test is signed and

certied by an inspector. After the trailer arrives on

your dealer’s lot, all vital parts and systems are again
tested� When you take delivery of your new trailer, you
will receive a complete check out�

At that time, a specied list of performance checks

on your trailer equipment will be conducted, and

any deciencies you have experienced since taking

delivery will be corrected�

Please contact your dealer if your trailer needs service�
Major service under your Airstream Limited Warranty is
available through our nationwide network of Airstream
Dealer Service Centers� An up-to-date list of Dealer
Service Centers will be sent to you with an Owner’s
Survey shortly after your trailer is delivered� Our web
site, www�Airstream�com also has a dealer locator on
it� This list is current as of the date of this publication�

Occasionally, dealerships change, or new dealers are
added who may not appear on this list� For this reason,
it is suggested that you contact your local dealer from
time to time for an updated list� Additional copies are
available if you need them� All centers operate on an

appointment basis for the utmost efciency.

When you require service for your trailer from the

Airstream Factory Service Center, or a Certied Dealer

Service Center, please contact the service manager
for an appointment, and inform them 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,

428 West Pike Street

P�O� Box 629

Jackson Center, Ohio 45334-0629

Phone: [phone] or [phone]

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General Information

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 Trafc
Safety Administration (NHTSA), in addition to notifying

Airstream Inc�

If NHTSA receives similar complaints, it may open an

investigation, and if it nds 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 Vehicle
Safety Hotline toll-free at 1-888-327-4236 (TTY: 1-800-

424-9153), go to http://www.safercar.gov, or write to:

Administrator,

NHTSA,

1200 New Jersey Avenue, S�E�,

Washington, DC 20590�

You can also obtain other information about motor
vehicle safety from http://www�safercar�gov�

Camping

Suggested Pre-Travel Check List

Interior

1� Turn off water pump switch�

2� Check battery water level�

3� Close windows and vents�

4� Lock all interior cabinet doors�

5� Latch refrigerator door. (Seal containers rst)

6� Hold down or stack securely all loose, hard, and

sharp objects�

7� Fasten sliding and foldette doors�

8� Drain toilet bowl�

9� Turn off interior lights�

Exterior

1� Disconnect and stow the electrical hookup cord,

and the sewer (ush out) and water hookup hoses.

2� Turn off gas at LP tanks�

3� Retract stabilizing jacks�

4� Check hitch for proper attachment�

5� Check safety chains and breakaway switch cable�

6� Fully retract hitch jack� Remove and stow jack

stand or wood block�

7� Check clearance and stoplights�

8� Check lug nuts�

9� Check tires for correct pressure�

10� Adjust tow vehicle mirrors�

11� Pull forward about 50 ft, test brakes, and check site

for forgotten objects and cleanliness�

Trailer Equipment and Accessories

1� Water hose, 5/8 in� high pressure, tasteless,

odorless, non-toxic, (2-25 ft. sections)

2� Y connection -- water hose�

3� Sewer hose with clamp�

4� Drain cap with hose drain�

5� Holding tank cleaner and deodorizer�

6� Power cord adapter, 30-amp capacity�

7� 30 ft� electric cord, 30-amp capacity�

36 ft� electric cord, 50-amp capacity�

8� Woodblocks for leveling�

9� Wheel chocks�

10� Hydraulic jacks�

11� Cross-type lug wrench and a torque wrench�

12� Quality tire gauge�

13� Emergency road warning triangle�

10� Lower wall mounted tables to be even with dinette

seats� Place Pedestal tables in upright position�

11� Pull up or retract step�

12� Lower blinds�

13� Secure and lock main door�

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General Information

Motoring Essentials

1� Display the tow vehicle and trailer registration

properly�

2� Carry driver’s license�

3� In Canada, bring along a non-residence liability

insurance card and your birth certicate.

4� In Mexico, you must have special auto insurance�

5� Carry an extra set of the ignition and truck keys in

a separate pocket, or in your wallet�

6� Keep an operating ashlight with fresh batteries in

the glove compartment�

7� Pack the trunk so that you can reach the tools and

spare tire without completely unpacking�

8� Keep sharp or hard articles securely packed�

9� Do not pack things in the passenger seating area�

You will need the maximum space for comfort�

10� Wear easy wash, drip-dry traveling clothes�

11� Do not make your vacation trips a mileage

marathon� Stop and relax frequently�

12� Carry a rst-aid kit.

13� Carry your pet’s dish, food, leash, and health and

registration papers�

Overnight Stop

Airstream owners have parked virtually in every place

imaginable, from lling 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 run down the batteries that
supply 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 truck stops and gas stations,
chain and individually owned, have installed sanitary
dumping stations for just this purpose� Booklets are
available that list 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 rm. Your facilities are with

you� You are self-contained� Unless the tow vehicle
is needed for transportation, it is not necessary to
unhitch�

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.

Choose the most level parking spot possible�
Stabilizing jacks or blocks may not be required for
an overnight stay� However, if you put the jack pad
on the hitch jack and run the hitch jack down to take
the weight off the tow vehicle’s springs, it will provide
some stability� If you must park on a slope, park facing
downhill� It is easier to level the trailer this way�

All you need to do to enjoy the self-contained luxury
of your Airstream is to turn on the LPG and light any
appliance pilot lights�

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�

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� If a correction is necessary,

you must level from side to side rst. This can be done

easily by backing the trailer up onto one or more 2 x 6
boards� We do not recommend placing tires in a hole
for leveling�

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General Information

112

Leveling

Block or chock the wheels to keep the trailer from
rolling� 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� Use stabilizing jacks at all four corners,
as shown in the diagram, to eliminate the natural spring
action of the axles�

1

1� Side to Side

2� Front to Rear

2

Stabilizing Jacks

Moisture can condense on the inside surfaces of the
trailer during cold weather when relative humidity of the
interior air is high� This condition is increased because
the insulated walls of a recreation vehicle are much
thinner than house walls� Also, the relatively small
volume and tight, compact construction of modern
recreational vehicles means that the normal living
activities of even a few occupants will lead to rapid
moisture saturation� Estimates indicate that a family
of four can vaporize up to three gallons of water daily
through breathing, cooking, bathing, and washing�
Unless the water vapor is carried outside by ventilation,

or condensed by a dehumidier, it will condense on

the inside of the windows and walls as moisture, or
in cold weather, as frost or ice� It may also condense
out of sight, within the walls or the ceiling, where it will
manifest itself as warped or stained panels�

Appearance of these conditions may indicate a serious
problem� When you recognize the signs of excessive
moisture and condensation in the trailer, action should
be taken to minimize their effects�

Tips To Controlling Condensation

Allow excess moisture to escape to the outside when:

1� Stabilizing Jack Location

2� Lifting Jack Location

WARNING

Stabilizing jacks should only be used to stabilize

trailer. Do not use jacks to lift the trailer.

WARNING

Whenever the trailer must be lifted with a jack, as

when changing a tire, 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.

Refer to Section 8 - Maintenance for further information
on jacking�

Effects Of Prolonged Occupancy

Your trailer was designed primarily for recreational use
and short-term occupancy� If you expect to occupy the
trailer for an extended period, be prepared to deal with
condensation and the humid conditions that may be
encountered�

• Bathing, washing dishes, hair drying, etc�

• Laundering, using appliances and non-vented gas
burners�

• Cooking (Always use the stove vent hood).

Avoid dead air spaces by:

• Using a fan to keep air circulating�

• Leaving closet and cabinet doors partially open�

To help alleviate cold weather condensation:

• Keep the temperature as reasonably cool during cold
weather as possible�

• Allow your trailer to breathe, do not make it airtight�

• Allow some warm air to be removed and some cool
outside air in�

• Do not allow the furnace to recycle humid interior air
provide reasonable ventilation�

In hot weather, starting the air conditioner early
will help remove excess humidity from the air while
lowering temperatures�

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General Information

NOTE

Your trailer is not designed, nor intended, for

permanent housing. Use of this product for

long-term or permanent occupancy may lead

to premature deterioration of structure, interior

nishes, fabrics, carpeting, and drapes. Damage or

deterioration due to long-term occupancy may not

be considered normal, and may, under the terms of

the warranty, constitute misuse, abuse, or neglect,
and may therefore reduce the warranty protection.

Molds

Molds are microscopic organisms that naturally
occur in virtually every environment, indoors and
out� Outdoors, mold growth is important in the
decomposition of plants� Indoors, mold growth is
unfavorable� Left unchecked, molds break down natural
materials, such as wood products and fabrics� Protect
your investment by understanding the potential risks
that mold imposes�

Contributing Factors To Mold Growth

For mold growth to occur, temperatures, indoor or
outdoors, must be between 40° and 100°F, and must
also have a source of moisture, such as humidity,
standing water, damp materials, etc� Indoors, the most
rapid growth occurs with warm and humid conditions�

Inhibiting Mold Growth

By controlling relative humidity, the growth of mold and
mildew can be inhibited� In warm climates, use of the
air conditioner will reduce the relative humidity� Vents
are located in the bathing and cooking areas� Constant
use of these vents is advised during food preparation
and bathing, even during colder weather� Additionally,
opening a window during these activities will assist in
ventilation� In extremely humid conditions, the use of a

dehumidier can be helpful.

Frequent use of your trailer, or cleaning regularly,
are important preventive measures� Additionally, any
spills should be wiped up quickly and dried as soon
as possible� Avoid leaving damp items lying about�
On safe surfaces, use mold or mildew-killing cleaning
products� Check sealants regularly, and reseal when
necessary to avoid water leaks� Proper preventive
maintenance to the trailer and its accessories, as
described both in this manual and in accompanying
literature, will provide the best protection to the trailer�

For more information concerning controlling moisture in
the trailer, read Tips to Controlling Condensation in this
section�

NOTE

If using a dehumidier, please read and follow all

manufacturer instructions and recommendations

for the use and cleaning of the dehumidier.

Waste Water System

The main parts of the waste water system are the
toilet, dual holding tanks, and tank dump valves (See

Section 8 - Maintenance for dump valve information).

The system is designed to provide complete self­contained toilet facilities, while on the road or parked,
without being connected to a sewage line� It may also
be used in the stationary position while connected to a
sewage hose�

Keep the dump valves closed with either method and
empty the tanks when they are nearly full� The idea is
to send a large volume of water through the tanks and

hose at the same time to oat solids away.

After the sewage tank has been emptied, close the

gate valves and put approximately ve gallons of water
in the sewage holding tank using the black tank ush

inlet� This will spray the interior of the tank with water
and help prevent solids from building up in the sewage
holding tank� The addition of a deodorizing agent like
Aqua-Kem® will help prevent odors�

Should you ever have a buildup of solids, close the

valves, ll the tanks about 3/4 full with fresh water,

drive a distance to agitate the solids, and drain the
tanks�

Things Not To Put Into Toilet Or Drains

• Facial tissues (they do not dissolve like toilet paper).

• Automotive antifreeze, ammonia, alcohols, or
acetone�

• Table scraps or other solids that may clog the drains�

2020 Caravel 3-9

General Information

16RB Model

1� Galley Drain

2� Lavatory Drain

3� Shower Drain

4� Toilet Drain

19CB Model

20FB Model

1� Galley Drain

2� Lavatory Drain

3� Shower Drain

4� Black Water Tank (Toilet)

5� Gray Water Tank

22FB Model

1� Galley Drain

2� Lavatory Drain

3� Shower Drain

4� Toilet Drain (Black Tank)

5� Grey Water Tank

1� Lavatory Drain

2� Black Water Tank (Toilet)

3� Galley Drain

4� Grey Water Tank

5� Shower Drain

3-10 2020 Caravel

General Information

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 set to a
constant temperature� It is easier for the furnace to
keep a constant room temperature than allow the trailer
temperature to drop to 50°F, then attempt to raise it to
room temperature�

Some states do not allow LPG to be turned on while
moving� While traveling in these states, simply use
your common sense� How cold is it? How long will
it be before you can turn the heat back on? Is the
temperature dropping or rising? Remember, 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
to keep a full supply of LPG and plug into an external
AC power source whenever possible�

Leave cabinet doors, wardrobes, and bed doors
partially open to allow warm air to circulate around

plumbing lines and xtures. Insulate and/or wrap your

exterior water lines with heat tape�

The furnace on Caravel models is ducted to provide
heat to tanks and plumbing to combat freezing�

NOTE

Drain and winterize all models if the water systems

are not being used during winter traveling. Refer

to Section 8 - Maintenance in this manual for

winterizing instructions.

Safety

As always, safety should be a top priority� Ensure that
you, and everyone traveling with you, can operate the
main door and emergency exit window rapidly, without
light� Contemplate other means of escape in case the
designated exits are blocked�

The escape windows(s) are identied by their red

release handles� Lift up on both latches to release the
escape window� Push out on the glass and it will swing
clear�

WARNING

The window operation should be checked before

each trip and the latches lubricated with WD-40 or

an equivalent lubricant every six months.

WARNING

Read the directions on the re extinguisher

carefully. If you have any doubts as to its

operation, you and your family should practice,

then replace or recharge the extinguisher. Your

local re department will be able to assist you and

answer any questions.

WARNING

Don’t smoke inside the trailer. Keep matches out of

reach of small children. Don’t clean with ammable

material. Keep ammable material away from open

ame. Always shut off the LP gas at the bottles

when fueling a tow vehicle.

We have all heard the above warnings many times,
yet the situation or occurrences they discuss are still

among the leading causes of res.

Safety information concerning the LPG system of your
trailer is located in Section 6 - Exterior of this manual�

2020 Caravel 3-11

General Information

NOTES

2020 Caravel3-12

Section 4

FLOOR PLANS AND

SPECIFICATIONS

FLOOR PLANS AND

SPECIFICATIONS � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � 4-1

FLOOR PLANS � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � 4-2

16RB Caravel � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � 4-2

19CB Caravel � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � 4-2

20FB Caravel � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � 4-2

22FB Caravel � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � 4-2

SPECIFICATIONS � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � 4-3

Specication Chart � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � 4-3

Specication Tags � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � 4-4

Measuring Hitch Ball Height � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � 4-4

Tire Size with Maximum Ination Pressure Cold � � � � � � � � 4-4

2020 Caravel 4-1

Floor Plans And Specications

Floor Plans

16RB Caravel

19CB Caravel

20FB Caravel

22FB Caravel

4-2 2020 Caravel

Floor Plans And Specications

Specications

Specication Chart

NOTE

All weights listed in the Specication Chart are checked and updated throughout the model year.

Your production trailer may vary from weights listed.

Model 16RB 19CB 20FB 22FB

Length - Exterior 16’ 2” 19’ 2” 20’ 8” 21’ 11”

Width - Exterior 8’ 8’ 8’ 8’

Width-Interior 7’ 7” 7’ 7” 7’ 7” 7’ 7”

Height-Ext. w/A/C 9’ 7” 9’ 7” 9’ 7” 9’ 7”

Height-Int. w/A/C 6’ 7�5” 6’ 7�5” 6’ 7�5” 6’ 7�5”

Hitch Ball Size 2 5/16” 2 5/16” 2 5/16” 2 5/16”

Hitch Ball Height 19” 19” 19” 19”

Hitch Weight
(with LP & Batteries)

GVWR (lb) 4300 5000 5000 5000

UBW (lb) 3200 3850 3975 4000

NCC (lb) 1100 1150 1025 1000

Fresh Water (Gal) 23 27 27 27

Gray Water (Gal) N/A 28 28 28

Black Water (Gal) N/A 18 18 18

Black/Gray Water
(Gal)

Aluminum Wheel
Torque (Max) ft lb

Steel Wheel
Torque (Max) ft lb

490 550 565 525

28 N/A N/A N/A

110 110 110 11 0

100 100 100 100

2020 Caravel 4-3

Floor Plans And Specications

The UBW and NCC weights listed in the Specication
Chart are for the base unit with LP and batteries
included.

Gross Vehicular Weight Rating (GVWR): is the
maximum permissible weight of this trailer when fully
loaded. It includes all weight at the trailer axle(s) and
coupler.

Unit Base Weight (UBW): is the dry weight of the base
unit without options.

Net Carrying Capacity (NCC): is equal to GVWR minus
UBW. Gross Axle Weight Rating (GAWR): is the value
specied as the load carrying capacity of a single axle
system, as measured at the tire-ground interfaces.

Specication Tags

For precise cargo capacity, refer to the Cargo-Carrying
Capacity tag on the inside of the screen door. The

WEIGHT OF CARGO SHOULD NEVER EXCEED

numbers shown on the tag, which is the maximum
weight of cargo you can load and carry in your specic
trailer as built with its options.

Located on the front roadside of your trailer are the Tire
and Loading, and Vehicle Manufacturing tags.

Measuring 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 parked 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 gure is the hitch height. The hitch
ball is then usually set 1/2 to 1 in. higher, according
to the spring rate of your tow vehicle, to allow for it
to settle when the trailer is hitched up.

Tire Size with Maximum Ination Pressure

Cold

• ST225/75R15 - 80 psi (Endurance, Standard)

The Tire and Loading information tag lists the Size and
Cold Ination Pressure of the tires on your vehicle, the
weight of your trailer as manufactured, and the Gross
Vehicular Weight Rating (GVWR).

The Vehicle Manufacturing tag lists the Size of tires
and wheel rims, Maximum Cold Ination pressures, the
Vehicle Identication Number (VIN), and Gross Axle
ratings (GAWR).

4-4 2020 Caravel

Section 5

INTERIOR

INTERIOR � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � 5-1

GENERAL INFORMATION AND CLEANING � 5-3

Ultra Leather � � � � � � � � � � � � � 5-3

Interior Aluminum Skin � � � � � � � � � 5-3

Draperies � � � � � � � � � � � � � � 5-3

Counter Area � � � � � � � � � � � � � 5-3

Sinks � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � 5-3

Vinyl Flooring � � � � � � � � � � � � � 5-3

General Cleaning � � � � � � � � � 5-3

Polishing the Flooring � � � � � � � 5-3

Telephone Shower Head � � � � � � 5-4

Retractable Clothesline � � � � � � 5-4

Dinette � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � 5-4

Bath Area Switches � � � � � � � � � � 5-4

Ceiling and Directional Lighting � � � � � � 5-4

Storage Tips � � � � � � � � � � � � � 5-4

PLUMBING � � � � � � � � � � � � � � 5-5

Faucets � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � 5-6

Galley Faucet � � � � � � � � � � 5-6

Lavatory Faucet � � � � � � � � � 5-6

Faucet Cleaning and Care � � � � � 5-6

ELECTRICAL � � � � � � � � � � � � � 5-6

Battery/12-Volt System Information � � � � 5-6

Battery Disconnect Switch � � � � � � � � 5-7

Inverter � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � 5-7

Converter � � � � � � � � � � � � � � 5-7

12-Volt Power Circuits � � � � � � � � � 5-8

Converter Operation � � � � � � � � � � 5-8

120-Volt AC Panel Board � � � � � � � � 5-8

Converter Cooling System � � � � � � � � 5-8

Automatic Micro-Controller Operation � � � 5-8

120-Volt Electrical System � � � � � � � 5-9

City Power � � � � � � � � � � � 5-9

Converter � � � � � � � � � � � � 5-9

Water System (Self-Contained) � � � � � � 5-5

Water Pump � � � � � � � � � � � � � 5-5

Draining System � � � � � � � � � � � 5-5

Fresh Water Lines and Tanks � � � � 5-5

Drain and Waste System � � � � � � 5-5

Toilet � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � 5-6

Deodorizers � � � � � � � � � � � 5-6

2020 Caravel 5-1

ENTERTAINMENT SYSTEMS � � � � � � �5-10

Ground Fault Circuit Interrupter (GFCI) 5-9

GFCI Breaker Test � � � � � � � �5-10

TV Antenna � � � � � � � � � � � � �5-10

Cleaning Antenna Housing � � � � �5-10

TV and Blu-Ray Player � � � � � � � � �5-10

TV Wall Plate Power Supply � � � � � � �5-10

Operation � � � � � � � � � � � �5-11

Satellite Antenna Pre-Wiring � � � � � � � 5-11

Interior

Section 5

Interior

APPLIANCES � � � � � � � � � � � � �5-11

Maintenance � � � � � � � � � � � � � 5-11

Air Conditioner � � � � � � � � � � � � 5-11

Exhaust Fans � � � � � � � � � � � �5-12

High Volume Roof Vent � � � � � �5-12

Operation � � � � � � � � � � � �5-12

Thermostat and Rain Sensor � � � �5-13

Cleaning Instructions � � � � � � �5-13

Furnace � � � � � � � � � � � � � � �5-13

Ducted Roof System � � � � � � �5-13

Microwave Ovens � � � � � � � � � � �5-13

Range � � � � � � � � � � � � � � �5-13

Refrigerator � � � � � � � � � � � � �5-14

Operation � � � � � � � � � � � �5-14

Start up � � � � � � � � � � � �5-14

Defrost and Cleaning � � � � � � �5-14

SeeLevel II Monitor Panel � � � � � � � �5-14

To Read a Water or Sewer

Tank Level � � � � � � � � �5-14

To Read the Battery Voltage � � � �5-15

To Program the LED Brightness � � �5-15

Solar System � � � � � � � � � � � � �5-15

Thermostat � � � � � � � � � � � � � �5-16

Water Heater � � � � � � � � � � � � �5-16

Safety � � � � � � � � � � � � �5-16

Electronic Ignition � � � � � � � � �5-16

5-2 2020 Caravel

Interior

General Information and Cleaning

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�

Ultra Leather

Spot clean regularly with mild soap and water� For
stubborn stains, wipe with isopropyl (rubbing alcohol)
as soon as possible� Sanitize using a disinfectant such
as a 5:1 water/bleach solution� Air dry or dry quickly
with a hair dryer on warm setting�

NOTE

Never remove cushion covers for separate dry

cleaning or washing. Any tumble cleaning method

can destroy the backing, and/or shrink or otherwise

damage upholstery fabric.

WARNING

Keep your furniture and family safe from res

caused by careless smoking. Do not smoke when

drowsy. Remove immediately any glowing ash

or a lighted cigarette that falls onto furniture.

Smoldering smoking material can cause

upholstered furniture res.

Interior Aluminum Skin

Interior aluminum skin can be cleaned by washing with
any mild non-abrasive soap or detergent� 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� Do not use abrasive
cleaners or utensils on the aluminum skin as it is
coated with a clear coat that could be damaged�

Airstream recommends using Pledge® All-Purpose
Cleaner to clean interior surfaces including the
aluminum skin�

NOTE

Draperies

Remove the draperies by unsnapping them from the
wall, removing a screw or pop rivet from the end of the
curtain track, and sliding them out� The pop rivets are
removed by drilling through the head with a 1/8 in� drill
bit�

NOTE

All drapery materials and mattress covers must be

professionally dry-cleaned.

Counter Area

The counter tops are made of a high-pressure laminate
and can be cleaned with soap and water, or you can
use a common solvent on tough spots� Do not use
abrasive cleaners since they could scratch the surface�
A protective pad should always be used under hot
utensils or pans�

Sinks

Cleaning can be accomplished using a mild liquid
detergent on a soft cloth� A complete home owners
guide for your sinks is supplied in your owner’s packet�
Please read these instructions before use�

Vinyl Flooring

General Cleaning

Use a soft broom to sweep the oor. A vacuum cleaner
may damage the ooring, especially the type that use

beater bars� In most cases, a clean damp cloth or mop

will sufce to clean dirty ooring. When necessary, a
solution of mild detergent or domestic oor cleaning
emulsion can be used to clean the ooring. Do not use

a wire brush or nylon scouring pads, furniture polish,
spirit-based polish, powder or liquid abrasive cleaners,
bleach or other strong detergents� Scuffs, dirt, and
spillages should be cleaned up as soon as possible�

Rubber backing on doormats may result in yellow

discoloration of the oor immediately beneath. Choose
a natural ber mat. Rubber feet on furniture may cause

staining� Remove them altogether or place coasters or

felt pads between them and the oor.

Polishing the Flooring

When washing or polishing your trailer, always

wipe with the grain of the metal.

2020 Caravel 5-3

Vinyl oors do not require waxing or polishing.

However, applying polish will provide additional

protection for the oor. Always follow the
manufacturer’s instructions when using a oor polish or

cleaner and ensure it is suitable for use with cushioned

vinyl ooring.

Interior

Shower Stall

To clean your berglass shower stall unit, use warm

water and one of the stronger liquid detergents� Do not
use abrasive cleaners as they may scratch and dull the
surface of your 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 glow
back into your unit with a light application of liquid wax�

CAUTION

Applying wax to the base of the shower oor is

not recommended, as this could create an unsafe

surface.

Telephone Shower Head

The telephone shower head is designed to give

maximum exibility in usage, and provides for water-

saving techniques when using your trailer on self­containment� 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�

Retractable Clothesline

Bath Area Switches

Two switch panels are located on the bathroom wall�

The rst switch panel, with a single switch, controls

the lavatory lights� The second switch panel, with two
switches and a red indicator, is for lighting the water
heater� On 16’ models, the bathroom light is operated
by the switch panel to the left of the entry door�

Ceiling and Directional Lighting

All lighting in the Airstream trailer is LED and most will

require a replacement xture should it go out. The main

ceiling lights can be turned on/off or dimmed by the

switch at the entry door. Some light xtures may have
a push button switch located on the xture. Gently

squeezing the lens in the middle and pulling down
will remove the lens� The bed and lounge areas have
individually switched directional lighting�

NOTE

A retractable clothesline and line hook is installed for
your convenience in the shower stall of the trailer�

Dinette

16RB, 19CB, and 20FB Caravel models have dinettes
which can be made into a bed by raising 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 unhooked,
the wall hinge will allow it to be pulled out and lowered
on the supports of the dinette seats� The backrests of
the seats are placed over the table to complete the
conversion� It is recommended to travel with the table
in the lowered position�

On 22 ft� front bed models, the dinette table has a
telescoping pedestal leg� To lower, release the black
compression clamp lever on the pedestal leg and push
the table down� Once lowered, clamp the lever back
to lock the leg in position� On the bottom of the table
top a latch is installed and can be released to allow the
table top to slide out towards the aisle� Use the dinettes
backrests to cover the table top and complete the
conversion�

When dimming it is normal for LED lights to icker.

Lights should return to normal once they are set at

a desired brightness.

Storage Tips

Galley cabinets should have the heaviest items
stored on the bottom and lighter items overhead� After

loading, put skillets and canned goods on the oor or

bottom shelf, and cereals and crackers in the overhead
roof locker� Use unbreakable-type plates and saucers,
and consider storing your dish towels around them�

Clothes hung in wardrobes should be kept on hangers
that snap over the clothes rods to keep them from
bouncing off on rough roads� Try to avoid large bulky
coats� Layers of lighter clothing will usually keep you
warmer, are more versatile, and are easier to store�

WARNING

Keep ammable material away from the furnace.

5-4 2020 Caravel

Interior

Plumbing

Water System (Self-Contained)

Fill the water tank by opening the exterior access door
and remove screw cap� A potable water hose can now
be inserted� It’s a good idea to let the water run through

the hose for a short time to ush it out. Experienced
RVers usually ll 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 ll the tank until water
overows out of the ll.

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 lled and

air is being pushed out through the lines� Once the
water heater is full, a steady stream of water will

ow 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 lled 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 Pump

The water pump switch (monitor panel mounted, see
Appliances in this section) operates the pump� Once
the switch is turned on, the pump will run until the
water pressure reaches about 55 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�

As a general rule, the water pump should be turned
off while using a city water hookup, however the 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 of 55 psi�

Access to the water pump will be necessary for
periodic cleaning of the strainer screen� Refer to
Section 8 - Maintenance for water pump access and
strainer screen removal�

Draining System

Fresh Water Lines and Tanks

Fresh water drain valves consist of low point water line
drain valves and fresh water tank drain valves� The
valves are in-line-or petcock-type valves�

Refer to Section 8 - Maintenance for necessary drain
valve locations and draining procedures of fresh water
lines and tanks�

Drain and Waste System

Your trailer has a drain and waste system that includes
waste-holding tanks made from corrosion-free molded
plastic, with trouble-free dump valves�

The main (Black Water) 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 into the auxiliary (Gray Water)
holding tank�

Each tank has its own dump valve with both tanks
draining through a common outlet� Therefore, only one
sewer hose connection is needed when hooking up to
a dump station�

Almost all campgrounds will have dumping facilities�
Park directories, such as Woodalls and Rand McNally,
also list dumping stations�

Refer to Section 8 - Maintenance for important
information on Black and Gray Water tanks draining,
cleaning, and rinsing procedures�

Check your monitor panel frequently (see Appliances
in this section)� When the Black Water holding tank is
completely full, sewage cannot be emptied from the

toilet bowl. If the Gray Water holding tank is overlled,

drain water may back up into the tub and cause an
unpleasant cleaning job� Never drain the tanks at any
place other than an approved dumping station�

NOTE

The 16 ft. model has a combination black/gray

holding tank. Draining procedure is the same,

however only one dump valve handle is used to

drain the tank.

NOTE

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.

2020 Caravel 5-5

Interior

Toilet

The RV toilet in your Airstream is a design that has
been used for many years� One pedal is used to open
and close the slide mechanism, as well as, open the
water valve�

In normal use, depressing the pedal dumps the

sewage and fresh water ushes down the side of the

bowl� Water will continue to run into the bowl for a short
time after the pedal is released�

When you wish to conserve water hold the hand-spray
head, if installed, over the bowl and hold down the
thumb-operated lever� When depressing the pedal, all
the water is routed through the hand-spray�

NOTE

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.

Please see the toilet owner’s/user manual for warranty
and user tips, and maintenance information�

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�

Faucets

Galley Faucet

Moen, Align Single Handle Pull Down Sprayer

Model - 756BL

Lavatory Faucet

Moen, Align 1-Handle Bathroom Faucet

Model - 6190BL

Faucet Cleaning and Care

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 nish. A
non-abrasive car wax will help to protect the nish.

Electrical

Battery/12-Volt System Information

The major portion of electrical power in your
Airstream is 12-volt� The 12-volt current powers all
gas appliances for controls and/or ignition as well as
lighting� An exception would be the range which has its
own ignition source�

All 12-volt current comes through the battery system
in the front of your trailer� The batteries are accessible
in the battery box on the A-frame of your trailer� Power
from the batteries goes to a set of Type 2 thermal
breakers� The breakers are tied together by a brass
bus bar� One breaker (30 amp) protects the 12-volt
tow vehicle charge line coming from the 7-way cord�
Another breaker (20 amp) feeds the trailer brakes
breakaway switch located near the hitch coupler� A
50-amp breaker feeds the battery disconnect relay�
The current leaves the relay and travels to the 12-volt
distribution panel, located in the converter, and then
to the rest of the trailer� Open the decorative door on
the front of the converter to access the panel and its
fuses� A 12-volt layout diagram is shown in Section 8 ­Maintenance�

If you replace a blown fuse and it immediately blows

again, do not replace the fuse again until a qualied

service technician can correct the problem�

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If the replacement fuse holds for a week or more and
the gap in the fusible metal is barely melted apart, this
usually indicates an overload condition� Reducing the
number of lights or appliances used on that particular
circuit at the same time could prevent any further fuse
failure�

Refer to Section 8 - Maintenance for important battery
maintenance information�

Battery Disconnect Switch

The battery disconnect switch is used to separate the
batteries from the 12-volt distribution panel�

When the trailer is plugged into an external AC power
source the 12-volt distribution panel will receive power
from the converter and the batteries will be charged
through the converter charging system regardless of if
the battery switch is in the ON/OFF position�

If the trailer is NOT plugged into an external AC power
source and the switch is turned to OFF the batteries
are disconnected and the 12-volt fuse panel will not
receive power from the converter� The converter will
not charge the batteries when no shoreline power is
present� The OFF position is intended for storage of
the trailer or when power conservation is desired�

The charge in the 12-volt batteries can be replenished,
depending on the tow vehicle, from the tow vehicle

alternator through the 7-way cord. This charge will ow

to the batteries regardless of the battery disconnect
switch position� Likewise, if ON or OFF, the solar panel
will still charge the batteries�

NOTE

Even with the battery disconnect switch in the OFF

position the LP detector will have a small parasitic

draw.

Inverter

NOTE

Overloading the inverter will cause an automatic

shutoff to activate. Removing the load will allow

the inverter to reset.

Converter

Caravel models have the converter installed below the
refrigerator, wardrobe, pantry, or bed, depending on the
model� Open the decorative door for access to 12-volt
fuses and 120- volt breakers�

The converter transforms 120-volt alternating current
(AC) into 12-volt direct current (DC)�The converter/
charging system is the interior low voltage electrical
system that enables you to use the interior lights, fans,
pumps, and 12-volt appliances, whether operating on
self-contained battery power or 120-volt city power�
The 12-volt light bulbs give off the same light as regular
household bulbs, so that when operating on self­contained battery power, everything works normally
except the 120-volt convenience outlets and 120-volt
appliances� The converter system is designed to
maintain constant output voltages regardless of the
variances that occur in city power systems�

The converter is energized only when the trailer is
hooked up to external AC power�

To test the converter, observe the following:

• Conrm 120-volt power is going into converter.

• Disconnect the 12+ wire from the master switch�

• Using a voltmeter, check voltage output between
heavy gauge positive and negative wires coming out
of converter�

• The voltage must be within 13�8 and 14�0 volts� (The

The optional 1,000 Watt inverter converts 12-volt
electricity from your batteries into 120-volt power�
The switch for the inverter is located under the
monitor panel� The inverter powers the TV’s and
Blu-Ray player, as well as, additional labeled 120-volt
receptacles�

2020 Caravel 5-7

meter of the tester should be calibrated periodically�)

• If converter is not within these voltages, have it

serviced by a qualied technician or replace it.

Interior

One of these wires is not spliced onto a wire of the
same color� It is the backup wire that is yellow in the
cable and black in the harness�

A label on the inside of the converter door lists the
circuits and what each fuse powers�

12-Volt Power Circuits

The current in the converter system is 12 volts direct
current (12 VDC) negative grounded� Power sources
that supply 12 VDC current to the system are as
follows:

• Main charge line from tow vehicle

• Trailer batteries

• Converter

The power sources listed 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�

The power converter is a solid-state electronic power

supply and is maintenance-free. It is so self-sufcient

and quiet that you will probably not know it is working
except for the fact that your batteries are always
charged, and your 12-volt lights and appliances always
work�

If any 12-volt appliance fails to operate, rst check

your 12-volt distribution fuse block, located behind the
decorative front door in the front right-hand corner of
the converter and inspect all fuses� If a fuse is opened
or blown, replace it with the same size fuse (never
install a larger fuse)� If the fuse opens again, have an

electrician or certied RV technician locate the circuit

trouble� Replace blown fuses only with the same type
and amperage size previously used�

If the power converter is not working, rst conrm

the RV supply or shoreline cord is plugged into a live
circuit� Then check all the 120-volt breakers in your
RV distribution panel to make sure they are on� If
the breaker is tripped, follow the instructions to reset
the breakers� If the breaker trips again, consult an

electrician or certied RV technician.

Converter Operation

The power converter is designed to supply the nominal

12-volt-ltered DC power for all 12-volt-operated

devices encountered in RV service� Although the
converter is an excellent battery charger, the converter
does not require a battery to be connected to it for
proper operation�

NOTE

When installing a battery (s), always observe

polarity. Connecting a battery in reverse polarity

will blow the power converter main fuses located

on the 12-volt DC distribution fuse block.

120-Volt AC Panel Board

The AC panel board section of the power converter
contains the 120 VAC branch circuit breakers for your
RV� One of the breakers controls the 120-volt power
to the 12-volt converter section� This breaker may also
control another branch circuit� Check the label next
to each breaker for what each branch circuit breaker
controls�

The 120-volt circuits may be turned on by setting their
breaker handle up, to the ON position, or off by setting
the handle down, to the OFF position� To reset the
tripped breaker, move handle to OFF then ON�

The system incorporates GFCI breakers that
implement an auto self-test functionality� When turned
off, these breakers require external AC power to be
present, or the AC inverter enabled, before they can
be turned back on� If AC power is present from one of
these two sources, and the breaker refuses to stay on

consult an electrician or certied RV technician.

Converter Cooling System

The power converters electronic fan cooling system
is the key to long life and trouble-free operation� The
fan is never on more than required to cool electronic
components in the converter� You may never hear the
fan operate�

Automatic Micro-Controller Operation

The power converters 3-stage switch mode is fully
automatic� The converter senses which mode it needs
to be in by checking the condition of the battery� The
three modes include:

Absorption Mode: During this mode the converter
output is in the 13�6 VDC range� This is the mode
that the converter will function at normally� This mode
provides the 12 VDC and the current required by the
trailer�

Bulk Mode: In this mode, the output voltage of the
converter will switch to 14�4 VDC range for a maximum
of four hours� If the converter cycles between

“Absorption and Bulk modes”, there could be a shorted

battery cell or other issues�

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Float Mode: If the trailer has not been used for a
period of time and the shore power has been left
plugged in, the converter will automatically go into

oat mode with a voltage of 13.2. When the converter

senses a demand, by turning on lights, the converter
automatically returns to absorption mode�

120-Volt Electrical System

City Power

When your trailer is hooked up to external AC power,
the converter system automatically charges the trailer
batteries regardless of the battery disconnect switch
position and, if the 7-way cord is hooked up and
depending on your vehicle, your tow vehicle battery
as well� The speed and degree of charge depends on
how much power is used for lights and appliances, as
only the surplus goes to charging the battery� If you are
making an extended stay, then you should keep your
trailer hooked up to a 120-volt current if it is available�

While you are connected to external AC power, the
wiring is protected by circuit breakers in the breaker
panel� The circuit breaker panel for the 120-volt system
is located in the converter� In the event of a failure of a

120-volt circuit, rst check your trailer circuit breakers

and the breaker for the outlet into which your trailer
shoreline cord is plugged� 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� Try lessening the load on the circuit�
Perhaps an electric griddle, hair dryer, or an electric
heater can be turned off� If that does not solve the
problem, consult an Airstream Service Center�

The 120-volt electrical system provides power to
operate the air conditioner, converter, and 120-volt
receptacles for portable appliances� The power is

carded through the 120-volt city power exible cord to

the 120-volt distribution panel, and then is distributed
to each appliance or receptacle� Exterior outlets for
120-volts are located on the curbside exterior wall
between the wheels and above the wheel well�

Converter

The converter system is a transformer designed to
maintain constant output voltages regardless of the
variances that occur in city power systems� The design
eliminates the need for complex electronic sensing
systems to charge the batteries, minimizing the
possibility of failures and greatly increasing its overall
reliability�

In some older parks and other locations where three
pronged outlets are not available, certain precautions
to ensure 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, that 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�

NOTE

When the three-pronged plug can be used,

there will be no problems with proper polarity or

grounding with a properly wired shoreline outlet.

NOTE

When operating with city power, make very certain

that the service is 120-volt and not 240-volt.

To operate self-contained, simply disconnect the power
supply cable�

Ground Fault Circuit Interrupter (GFCI)

Most states require trailers with exterior 120-volt
receptacles and receptacles close to a water sources,
such as a faucet, to have a ground fault-circuit
interrupter� 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�

WARNING

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� GFCI
breakers require 120V power to be present for it to
be reset� 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�

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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.

GFCI Breaker Test

A

Push To

Test

B

1� With handle A in “ON” position, press PUSH TO

TEST button B�

2� Handle A should move to TRIP position, indicating

that GFCI breaker has opened the circuit�

3� To restore power move handle A to “OFF” and then

to “ON“.

GFCI(s) are proven lifesavers, however, consumers
need to take a few minutes each month to perform this
simple test� By taking action, you can help protect your
family from the risk of electric shock�

NOTE

Entertainment Systems

TV Antenna

The installed omnidirectional antenna provides
excellent reception of VHF/UHF TV channels� The TV
antennas compact modern styling is unobtrusive and
blends well with the designs of recreational vehicles�

The amplied signal maximizes signal strength to

provide the best TV reception available in your area�
The antenna receives free VHF, UHF and FM signals�
Manufactured with durable automotive-grade plastic,
the antenna is weatherproof, UV-protected and
resistant to rust�

Cleaning Antenna Housing

The antenna is constructed with an automotive-grade
plastic� Clean only with mild soap and water� Use no

solvents, alcohol, or cleaning uids. Do not power wash

any part of the base mount of head of the antenna�

All GFCI breakers implement an auto self-test

function, however, Airstream recommends a

manual test be conducted every month.

TV and Blu-Ray Player

Caravel trailers are equipped with an LED HDTV and
a Blu-Ray Player� Please refer to the documentation
included in your owner’s packet for instructions on their
use�

TV Wall Plate Power Supply

The wall plate/power supply provides 12 VDC to the
antenna as well as antenna signals to two TV sets�
Cable input from outdoor receptacle connects to the
wall plate and may be switched so either antenna or
cable/satellite signals may be watched�

5-10 2020 Caravel

Operation

To receive cable signals from the outdoor receptacle:
Press switch to OFF position� The light on the wall
plate will go (OFF) showing that power is no longer
connected to the antenna and that both TV sets are
receiving signals from the outdoor receptacle� To
receive signals from antenna: Press switch to ON
position� The light on the wall plate will come (ON)
showing that power is connected to the antenna and
both TV sets are receiving signals from the antenna�

Review the manuals included in your owner’s packet
before operating the system�

Satellite Antenna Pre-Wiring

Your unit is pre-wired for a portable satellite antenna�
The exterior inlet is located on the side or rear panel
of the trailer and is labeled for your convenience� The
interior pre-wire, consisting of a 2-pin power/ground
connector and a coax cable pigtail, is located in the
front roof locker under the Blu-Ray player shelf�

Appliances

All appliances are delivered to Airstream Inc� with in­depth owner’s manuals� Those manuals are included in
the delivery case supplied by your dealer� The manuals
may contain warnings, cautions, and operating
instruction that should be read and followed before
operating the appliances�

The information contained in the appliances manuals
supersedes any information contained in the Airstream
Trailer Owner’s Manual on appliances� If you believe
contradictory information on appliances is contained
in this manual, or If any appliance manual(s) have not
been provided with your trailer, contact your dealer,
the respective appliance manufacturer, or Airstream
Customer Service at 937-596-6111 or write:

Airstream Factory Service Center

428 W� Pike Street

P�O� Box 629

Jackson Center, OH 45334-0629

[phone]

Interior

WARNING

For additional Liquid Propane Gas (LPG) safety

and warning information, refer to Section 2 - Safety

and Section 6 - Exterior of this manual.

NOTE

Airstream recommends shutting off the gas supply

at the LPG tanks before refueling the tow vehicle or

entering a refueling station.

Maintenance

Follow the instructions and warnings noted in the
respective appliance and equipment owner’s manuals,
as well as those mentioned below�

Annual maintenance should be conducted on propane
gas appliances and equipment by an authorized dealer
or repair facility�

Insects can build nests in the burners of various
appliances and equipment� The burner and burner

orice of the propane gas appliances and equipment

should be cleaned out by an authorized dealer or repair
facility anytime circumstances or conditions warrant,
but no less than on an annual basis�

WARNING

Most LPG 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 from the burner ame, CAUSING A FIRE

OR AN EXPLOSION.

Air Conditioner

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, contact the air conditioner manufacturer,
or your Airstream dealer for replacement�

Proper voltage to the air conditioner is critical� A

voltmeter check may nd voltage much lower at a

campground shoreline outlet than the needed 110 to
120 volts� Your air conditioner may not function if the
current drops below 105 volts� Low voltage is usually
associated with older or poorly maintained trailer parks�
Parking your trailer so the power cord can be plugged
into a receptacle close to the fuse or circuit breaker box
can alleviate low voltage problems� Avoid extension

2020 Caravel 5-11

Interior

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�

If high temperatures are expected, make an effort to
park in a shaded area� Starting the air conditioner

early in the morning also helps. It is more efcient to

hold a comfortable temperature than it is to lower the
temperature after the interior of the trailer is already
hot�

Never run your air conditioner with the vents closed�
Doing so could cause the air conditioner to freeze
and may damage to the unit� The manufacturer
recommends having at least 3 vents open when
running to prevent any chance of freezing up

NOTE

Review the air conditioning literature supplied in

your owner’s packet before proceeding.

Exhaust Fans

High Volume Roof Vent

The high-volume roof vent system is designed to
quickly exhaust stale, hot air and draw in fresh air� It
is great to use when the outside temperature does not
call for air conditioning, but heat has built up in your
trailer�

The core of the system is a powerful rotary fan that
works with a slightly open window to create a balanced

airow. It is designed for maximum air exchange,

minimum sound levels and power consumption� Fresh,
clean, natural air is pulled in� Hot, stale, stuffy air is
pushed out�

NOTE

Never place Lindeen™ or a like cover over ceiling

fan. Greatly restricted airow and increased sound

levels will occur.

In the bathrooms round ventilators are used and are
opened by pushing straight up on the crossbar handle
and pressing the red switch to engage the fan motor�

NOTE

The range exhaust cover on the outside of the

trailer has a swinging door that can be latched

during inclement weather and should be latched

while in travel. When operating the exhaust fan, the

latches should be turned so the door swings open

when the fan is on.

Operation

1� Open dome approximately 3 in� 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 level

(3-Low, 2-Medium, 1-High, O-Off)�

3� Open window(s) or door for airow.

The source of airow is determined by the number of

window(s) or door opened� For best results, close all
roof vents and open one window that is the greatest
distance from the ceiling fan�

NOTE

For maximum airow, do not close vent shade, if

equipped, while using Exhaust Fan.

5-12 2020 Caravel

Thermostat and Rain Sensor

The fan is equipped with a built-in thermostat� Select
your comfort setting and the fan will automatically turn
on and off as your trailer heats up and cools down�
When the rain sensor becomes wet the dome will close
automatically and shut the fan off� Once the sensor has
dried out the dome will reopen and the fan will restart�

1� Follow the previous operation steps one through

three�

2� Select the desired temperature or comfort level

using the thermostats knob� The fan motor will
now start and stop automatically as the interior
temperature of the trailer exceeds or drops below
the selected level�

NOTE

Fan motor will not start if temperature selected is

warmer than interior temperature of the trailer.

Cleaning Instructions

1� Turn fan motor off�

2� Remove the screws around perimeter of screen

insert only�

3� Clean screen with soap and water solution, dab dry

with a soft cloth, and reinstall�

CAUTION

This product has been manufactured using prime

UV stabilized Polymers for maximum toughness

and durability. However, the use of non-compatible

chemicals will cause cracking and product failure.
Please refer to the user’s manual provided in your

owner’s packet for more information.

Furnace

The manufacturer of the furnace in your trailer has
been well known in the RV industry for many years�
The furnace burns LP gas, and is powered by 12-volt
current from the batteries 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�

Interior

WARNING

Carefully read all the manufacturer’s instructions

prior to operating. NEVER store ammable material

next to the furnace or in close proximity to the

furnace exhaust outlet on the side if the trailer.

NOTE

If warranty service is required, use only a

service location recommended by the furnace

manufacturer or your Airstream dealer.

Ducted Roof System

Caravel models are designed with a ducted roof

system. This system provides a more efcient air ow

throughout the trailer and allows equal air to be blown
from each vent� The ducted roof helps to create a more
balanced temperature inside the trailer�

Microwave Ovens

Refer to the Certied Performance Checkout sheet,

included in your owner’s packet, for manufacturer,
model, and serial number information�

Range

There is little difference between the operation of home
gas ranges and the trailer’s range� If, however, you are

used to an electric range, operating condence can be

quickly gained by reading the manufacturer’s directions
provided in the owner’s packet� Manufacturer’s service
and parts manuals are also available�

WARNING

An operation manual for the range has been

provided with your owner’s packet. If this has not

been provided with your trailer, contact the listed

manufacturer to obtain. Their manual contains

specialized warnings and cautions that should be

reviewed prior to operating the appliance.

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Refrigerator

Your Caravel is equipped with Nova Kool 2-Way (12V,
120V) refrigerator� Review all refrigerator literature
supplied in your owner’s packet or stored in the
refrigerator prior to operating�

Operation

The refrigerator operates on 12-volt current from the
battery or on 120V shore power� All units are supplied
with a wide range thermostat designed to sense the
evaporator (cold plate) temperature� The coldest
position on the thermostat is reached by turning the
knob to the right (clockwise); conversely turning the
thermostat knob to the left (counterclockwise) yields a
warmer setting� The OFF position is reached by turning
hard counterclockwise past the click� The reference
point is shown with an indicator sticker beside the
knob�

Start up

Turn the power on and set the thermostat between 3
and 4� You can make further adjustments to suit your
personal requirements after the box has cooled down�
Allow the refrigerator to come down to temperature
before loading with product� Adding pre-cooled product
will help keep the temperature stable when loading�
Setting the thermostat to a higher setting e�g�, 7, will
not decrease the time required for the unit to cool down
to its normal operating temperature�

Defrost and Cleaning

The frequency of defrost is dependent on the number
of door openings, the ambient temperature and the
humidity level� Typically, it is a good practice to defrost
once there is ¼ inch of frost buildup on either side of
the evaporator (cold plate)� When defrosting, the unit is
shut off by turning the thermostat counterclockwise to
the OFF (0) position� Prop the door open� We suggest
placing a towel in the bottom of the refrigerator to catch
excess moisture�

Now that the unit has been defrosted, the interior can
be cleaned with a non-abrasive cleaner� Do not use

“Brillo” or “SOS” type abrasive pads, as they will score

the surfaces� Baking soda is recommended�

CAUTION

Speeding up the defrost process with a knife

or scraper is strongly discouraged due to the

likelihood of rupturing the refrigerant circuit.

SeeLevel II Monitor Panel

The display is the only system component that is
accessed by the user� All user input to the display is
done using the four buttons along the bottom of the
display�

NOTE

The 16’ Bambi combination Black/Grey tank

requires only the “Black” button to be pressed to

view the current tank level. Pressing “Grey” will

result in “OPn” being displayed.

The display receives the information from the three
sender pads via a single, two-conductor wire, and
displays the level information in percent of full on a
three-digit, LED display� When the front panel button
for a particular tank is pressed, the display powers
up and displays the level for that tank� If the button
is pressed and released, the display will show the
level for about 5 seconds and then shuts down
automatically� If another button is pressed before the
display shuts down, then the new level will immediately
be shown� If the same button is pressed twice, the
display will hold on that tank and continue to show
updated levels for 5 minutes before shutting off� This

allows the user to monitor the lling or draining of the

tank� By pressing two buttons at once, the diagnostic
functions can be accessed�

Sender pads are installed and stuck to the sides of
the holding tank� The sender pad scans the water
level through the tank wall using digital techniques
programmed into the sender microprocessor�

To Read a Water or Sewer Tank Level

1� Press the button corresponding to the tank to be

checked and release it, the display will show the
levels in percent on the LED display� If no other
button is pressed, then the display shuts off after
about 5 seconds�

2� If another button (including BATT) is pressed

before the 5 second time is up for the rst button,

the display will immediately switch to show the new
level or voltage� The 5 second time-out is restarted
every time a button is pressed�

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Interior

3� To continuously display a reading, press and

release the desired button, and then press the
same button a second time� When the button is
released, the display will be on hold mode, which
is indicated by the decimal point on the right hand
side turning on� While the display is in the hold
mode it will recheck the level once per second
so the user can watch the level change while the

tank is being lled or drained. The display will

automatically shut off after 5 minutes in hold mode�
To end the hold mode before the 5 minutes is up,
press any tank button, and the display will shut off�

To Read the Battery Voltage

1� Press the BATT button and release it, the display

will show the battery voltage on the LED display

2� If no other button is pressed, then the display will

shut down after about 5 seconds� If the BATT
button is held down, the display will continuously
recheck the voltage and show the updated value�

The reading may icker back and forth between

two values�

3� If another button is pressed before the 5 second

time is up for the BATT button, the display will
immediately switch to show the value for the new
button� The 5 second time-out is restarted every
time a button is pressed�

4� There is no hold mode for the battery voltage

To Program the LED Brightness

1� The display needs to enter the brightness

programming mode� To do this, press and hold
the BATT button; the display will show the battery
voltage�

2� While continuing to hold the BATT button, press

and hold the GREY button� Continue to hold
both buttons for approximately 5 seconds until

the display shows “bri” to indicate the brightness

programming mode� When this occurs, release
both buttons�

Solar System

Airstream utilizes Zamp solar panels and a Sun­Explorer charge control and display� Cut the cord to
expensive daily shore power hook-ups with the 12-volt
solar charging system� Ensuring the panels are clean,
not partially shaded by trees or other interference will
promote solar charging�

The Sunexplorer charge control performs these basic
functions:

1� It senses when the battery is fully charged and

disconnects the charge current to avoid over­charging the battery�

2� It resumes charging the battery when the battery

voltage has dropped sufciently to accept

additional charge current�

3� It checks the availability of charge current, by

cycling the relay every 4 minutes� If there is

insufcient charge current available, it’s internal

relay will disconnect the battery to prevent
discharge through the solar panels at night�

Three different colored LED’s indicate the status of the
battery charge� Green = Full, Yellow = Partial, blinking
Orange = low� When orange LED is blinking, due to low
voltage, both the green and yellow LEDs will be dimly
lit� Manuals on their use are included with the Airstream
owner’s packet�

For those units manufactured without the solar panel
option, a 3-port plug-in has been pre-wired on the
roof� This port allows for roof mounted solar panels to
be installed after manufacturing without the need for
running wires� A single port has also been pre-wired
in the front of the unit near the battery box� This port
is a quick plug-in for a portable solar charging kit�
These ports are designed for solar panels added after
manufacturing�

Refer to Section 8 - Maintenance for Solar Panel
Wiring diagram and information�

3� Press the GREY tank button to increase

brightness, or the FRESH tank button to decrease
brightness

4� When the display shows the correct brightness,

press the BATT button to exit the programming
mode�

2020 Caravel 5-15

Interior

Thermostat

Follow the instructions provided in your Owner’s
Packet for operation of the thermostat�

NOTE

When using the FURNACE the fan speed should

be set on AUTO. Otherwise the AC fan will

continuously run.

Water Heater

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 expanding water 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, simply open any faucet and run as
little as a cup of water� Removing this small amount of

water will reduce the pressure buildup signicantly.

Electronic Ignition

The switch used to light your electronic ignition water
heater is located above the galley sink on 16’ models
and in the bathroom on all other models� Normally,
the burner will ignite in just a few seconds unless your
LPG system has not been used for some time and air

may have lled the lines. The system will go into safety

lockout, after 3 failed ignition attempts, before the air
is expelled� If this happens the red indicator light will
come on� Turning the switch off for 30 seconds and
then back on reinstates the ignition mode�

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 if it has not been

used for a long period of time (generally two weeks

or more). Hydrogen gas is extremely ammable. To

reduce the risk of injury under these conditions,

it is recommended that the hot water faucet be

opened for several minutes at the galley sink
before using any electrical appliance connected to
the hot water system. If hydrogen is present, there

will probably be an unusual sound heard such as

air escaping through the pipe as the water begins

to ow. Do not smoke or allow an open ame near

the faucet at the time it is open.

5-16 2020 Caravel

Section 6

EXTERIOR

EXTERIOR � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � 6-1

CLEANING � � � � � � � � � � � � � � 6-2

Exterior Skin � � � � � � � � � � � � � 6-2

Windows � � � � � � � � � � � � � � 6-2

Aluminum Wheels � � � � � � � � � � � 6-2

GENERAL INFORMATION AND OPERATION � 6-3

Step � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � 6-3

Main Door � � � � � � � � � � � � � � 6-3

Screen Door � � � � � � � � � � � � � 6-3

Emergency Escape Windows � � � � � � 6-3

Front End Protection � � � � � � � � � � 6-3

Window Stone Guards � � � � � � � 6-3

Wrap Protectors � � � � � � � � � 6-3

Awning � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � 6-4

Exterior Shower � � � � � � � � � � � � 6-4

City Water Hookup � � � � � � � � � � � 6-4

Shoreline Power Supply � � � � � � � � 6-5

TV/Satellite Inlets and Receptacle Outlets � 6-5

Hitch/Coupler � � � � � � � � � � � � � 6-5

Operating Instructions � � � � � � � 6-5

Axle and Running Gear Assembly � � � � 6-5

Nev-R-Lube Drums/Bearings � � � � � � � 6-6

Power Jack � � � � � � � � � � � � � 6-6

Power Jack Fuse � � � � � � � � � 6-6

Liquid Petroleum Gas (LPG) � � � � � � � 6-6

Fill Valve � � � � � � � � � � � � 6-6

Automatic Gas Regulator � � � � � � 6-7

LPG Tanks � � � � � � � � � � � 6-8

Exterior LPG Port � � � � � � � � � � � 6-8

Basic Rules For LPG Safety � � � � � � � 6-9

If You Smell Gas � � � � � � � � � 6-9

2020 Caravel 6-1

Exterior

Cleaning

Exterior Skin

We recommend the trailer be washed about every
four weeks and waxed with Walbernize Super Seal, or
high quality clearcoat-safe wax, in the spring and fall�
In coastal and industrial areas, cleaning and waxing
should be done more frequently� When traveling
through winter weather, all road treatment chemicals
should be removed immediately�

NOTE

Abrasive polishes or cleaning solvents such as
automatic dishwasher or acid etch cleaners are

too strong and should never be used. Rinse all

grit from surface prior to washing. Use soft rags

or wash mitts, always moving lengthwise with the

grain of the trailer (washing or polishing)� Never

rub hard on the coating. Even the softest rag will

damage the coating if excessive pressure

is applied.

NOTE

Always clean your trailer in the shade or on a

cloudy day when the aluminum skin is cool.

Oil, grease, dust, and dirt may be removed by washing
with any mild non-abrasive soap or detergent� 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�

After cleaning and drying, a good grade of non­abrasive automotive paste or liquid wax will increase

the life of the nish, especially in coastal areas where
the nish 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 substances such as sap, gum,
resin, and asphalt as soon as possible by washing
and waxing� Sunlight and time will bake-harden these
materials, making them almost impossible to remove

without heavy bufng. If asphalt remains on the trailer

after washing, use a small amount of kerosene on a
rag and wipe the spots individually, being careful not to

scratch the nish.

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�

To keep your trailer looking new, paint the A-frame,
LPG tanks, and rear frame periodically�

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 once a
year� 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 products are available from
your Airstream dealer�

Windows

Clean your trailer windows the same way you clean the
windows in your home� Clean the seals with a damp
cloth and mild detergent every three to six months�
Do not use strong solvents, as they will damage the
seals� A coat of natural silicone lubricant applied after

the seal has dried, will keep it exible. Spread the
lubricant evenly with a brush or nger, working it into

the surface� This is a good practice for all rubber seals
in your trailer�

WARNING

Failure to properly clean and lubricate the window

seals could result in the window sticking to the

jamb. Window seals that become stuck to the

window jamb should be released by a qualied

technician trained in the procedure. Do not force,

pry, or apply great pressure to open the window.

Failure to heed this warning may cause the window

to shatter and/or cause personal injury.

For replacement of a damaged window, contact an
Airstream Service Center�

Aluminum Wheels

The aluminum wheels and axle end cover come
treated with a clear-coating� Keep them looking good
by washing with soap and water� Do not use abrasive
cleaners or polishes on coated aluminum wheels�

6-2 2020 Caravel

Exterior

General Information and Operation

Step

To operate the step, lift up on the front of the step and
pull straight out until step locks into place� Some units
will be equipped with a double step� After extending
step, the second portion folds out� To store the step,
fold it back into position, lift the front slightly, and push
the step back into its storage area�

CAUTION

Once the steps are lowered, press down on them to

make sure they are secure in their notches. Never

travel with step lowered or extended.

Screen Door

The screen door is secured to the main door by 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�

Emergency Escape Windows

To remove the screen pull out the screen cord by the
cord loop at the bottom portion of the window� Turn
the two red latches inward and lift the two red arms on
each side, in unison, to open the window and push it
out for clearance�

Front End Protection

Main Door

The main door of the trailer is manufactured with a
built-in keyed dead bolt and door lock� The door lock is
engaged from the inside by a lever and the dead bolt is
engaged by turning the knob�

A main door hold-back is mounted on the trailer’s
exterior side skin� The hold back secures the door to
the side of the trailer� When opening the door, push it
gently into the spring-operated slide� To release the
door, slide the hold-back bolt back�

For lubrication and out-of-adjustment issues, refer to
Section 8 - Maintenance�

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 resulting in

possible damage.

Window Stone Guards

Stone guards may be provided for added protection
on the front windows� To open the guard, unhook the
two rubber T-handles on the bottom of the guard, raise
the stone guard to the desired height, and tighten
the thumb screws on each support arm� Be sure to
lower and fasten the guard when high winds may be
approaching and before travel�

Wrap Protectors

The front end of the trailer exterior shell may be
equipped with stainless steel protectors covering the
lower corner wraps� The protectors provided added
protection from road damage� The protectors can
be moved out of the way for cleaning the shell by
unbolting and swinging the protectors forward on the
hinge�

2020 Caravel 6-3

Exterior

Awning

Complete operating instructions have been provided
with your awning� Make sure your traveling companion
is familiar with the operation of the awning�

The awning’s primary function is sun protection,
therefore, roll up your awning in case of heavy rain,
wind, or snow� To prevent water buildup on the awning
during a light rain, position one upper arm lower than
the other to create enough of a slope for adequate
water runoff�

Clear tape is placed between the exterior skin and the
awning fabric to prevent the awning fabric from rubbing
on the coating, thus wearing through it� Inspect the
tape every year or after a long trip� Have it replaced if it
begins to wear thin�

NOTE

If wind or extended periods of rain are expected,

roll up the awning and secure in traveling position.

CAUTION

The effects of wind and rain on any awning are

unpredictable. Severe damage to the trailer and/or

the awning may result and cannot be covered by

warranty.

Exterior Shower

City Water Hookup

The city water hook-up is located on the side of the

trailer. For consistent water ow and plumbing line

safety, an in-line regulator limits pressure to 50 psi�

Use a tasteless, odorless, and non-toxic high-pressure
hose of at least 1/2 in� diameter designed for RV use�
The city water inlet is a standard garden hose thread�
We suggest you carry two lengths of hose, in order to
reach hookups farther away than normal, plus, to have
a spare�

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 a steady ow of water occurs at the
faucet. Once a steady ow is achieved at one faucet

the others should be opened long enough to expel the
air in the lines going to them�

Caravel units are equipped with an exterior shower�
This shower consists of a shower hose, shower head,
and water valve inside of a lockable exterior door�
Water is supplied by the pump or city water hookup�

Your plumbing system has a built-in pressure regulator
to protect your lines and faucets from extremely high
pressures on some city water systems�

6-4 2020 Caravel

Exterior

Shoreline Power Supply

The Power Cord hookup is located on the side of the
trailer� The cord may be stored in the rear exterior
compartment� The power cord is plugged into the trailer
receptacle and the City Power Service�

NOTE

Use only power cords recommended by Airstream.

Many campgrounds provide less than 30 amp service,
and your hookup may blow their fuse or circuit breaker�
If this happens, reduce the load and replace the fuse or
reset the breaker�

Operating Instructions

The EZ-Latch coupler features a simple-to-use latching
mechanism� Hooking up is as easy as dropping the
coupler on to your hitch ball� Simply make sure that the
coupler is properly lined up with the ball, then lower
the coupler� The coupler will automatically open and
latch into place when lowered onto the hitch ball� To
disengage coupler, pull up on latch and raise coupler
off of hitch ball� Return the coupler latch to the latched
position to ensure that coupler is ready to be latched
again�

The coupler features a strong composite handle, If the
handle does get damaged or becomes missing, the
coupler is still completely operational until the handle
can be replaced� Replacement parts can be purchased
through your Airstream Dealer� See additional
information included in your owner’s packet�

WARNING

Always make sure coupler is properly attached and

latched before towing.

Axle and Running Gear Assembly

TV/Satellite Inlets and Receptacle Outlets

An exterior inlet for TV/Satellite and an outlet for a 120
volt receptacle is located on the side of the trailer and
are labeled for your convenience�

Hitch/Coupler

Each 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
traveling straight will only cause misalignment after
the tire has struck such objects many 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� Rear axles are occasionally
damaged when people are attempting to park beside a
curb while backing up their trailer�

The trailer axle(s) is bent upward in the middle� This
bend is normal and is how the camber is obtained�
Also, toe-in is built into the axle by very slight bends in
the axle tube on each end�

Tire wear indicates misalignment� Check with your
dealer for the nearest location having the proper
equipment to correct the trailer’s alignment�

Refer to Section 8 - Maintenance for camber and toe-in

specications.

2020 Caravel 6-5

Exterior

Nev-R-Lube Drums/Bearings

All Caravel models are equipped with Nev-R­Lube bearings� Dexter’s Nev-R-Lube bearings are
compromised of opposed tapered roller bearing cones
sealed inside a precision-ground, one-piece, double­cup arrangement� These bearings are designed with
a small amount of axial end-play� The end-play is
essential to the longevity of the bearing’s service life�

Refer to Section 8 - Maintenance for Nev-R-Lube
Bearing inspection�

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�

The jack is wired directly to the battery and has an
spade fuse located in the battery box between the
battery and the power head� For fuse information and
part number, refer to section 8 - Maintenance of this
manual�

• Use the jack for lifting the trailer only�

• Never get beneath the travel trailer when only the
power jack supports it�

• Support the vehicle by appropriate means�

Power Jack Fuse

Should an electrical failure occur, rst check to see if

the fuse has blown� The fuse is located in the battery
box within a square fuse holder� If the fuse is not blown
and the jack still will not operate you can manually
operate the jack by placing the manual override
handle into the alignment tube and engaging the drive
pin� Rotating the handle counterclockwise to raise
or clockwise to lower the trailer� If the fuse is blown,
replace the fuse with the same type and check to see if
the jack is now operable�

Refer to the Maintenance section for replacement and
maintenance of the power jack�

Liquid Petroleum Gas (LPG)

Fill Valve

WARNING

Avoid the risk of injury to yourself and others.
Keep hands and feet from under the foot plate

when using the jack. Do not use or install dolly

wheels on the power jack. Failure to comply could

result in serious injury

The LPG tanks are equipped with ll valve connections

RV Type I Acme� 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 ow from the cylinder until a

positive seal has been made at the connection� The
valve outlet has 1-5/16 in� 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 while
still accommodating the standard left-handed POL

ttings used for lling propane cylinders.

6-6 2020 Caravel

Exterior

The mating, green swivel nut and brass nipple
incorporates new features: the green nylon nut swivels
on a black bushing that is heat-sensitive� Between 240
and 300°F, the bushing will yield (melt) allowing the
spring-loaded module in the valve to push the brass
nipple back (approximately 1/4 in�), closing the module

and stopping the ow of gas from the cylinder. Inside
the brass nipple is a ow-limiting device designed
to sense excessive gas ow. If an excessive ow is
sensed, the ow-limiting device shuts the ow down

to a maximum of 10 SCFH (Standard Cubic Feet per

Hour) or less. This is also referred to as bypass ow.

Bypass ow is extremely important in the proper
operation of this connection. The ow-limiting device

may activate if the cylinder valve is opened quickly�

When all appliances are off, the bypass ow allows
the pressure downstream from the ow-limiting device
to equalize. When pressure is equalized, the ow­limiting device will supply normal ow 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 ow

in the system, the bypass pressure will not be able to

equalize and allow the ow-limiting device to re-open.

Symptoms of this condition would be appliances that

light but have lower than normal ame or starve out
from lack of gas, a substantial reduction in the ame

when another appliance is operating, or pilots that are

difcult to light. If this should happen, the following

steps should eliminate the condition:

1� Close LPG cylinder valve�

2� Extinguish all ames and smoking materials.

3� Be sure all gas appliances, including their pilot

lights, are off�

4� Open LPG cylinder valve slowly� Do not snap open�

5� Wait at least 15 seconds before lighting appliances�

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�

Automatic Gas Regulator

All models are equipped with a two stage automatic
change-over gas regulator that offers the convenience
of automatic changeover from empty to full gas
cylinders� Both tanks are connected to this regulator�

Make sure there is propane in both tanks before you
start� Rotate the white knob on the top-front side of the

regulator toward the cylinder you want to use rst. This

will be the service cylinder and the other will be the
reserve cylinder� Slowly open both cylinders valves�

Open both cylinder valves completely, then close about
1/4-turn� This will allow you to easily check to see if
valves are open or closed� The indicator on top of the
regulator will turn bright green� The indicator will stay
bright green as long as there is fuel coming from the
service cylinder� When the service cylinder empties,
the regulator will draw fuel automatically from the

reserve cylinder, providing an uninterrupted fuel ow

to the system� When it switches over, the indicator will
change from green to red� This red color indicates the

service cylinder is empty and needs to be lled.

6� If operational difculties continue, there may be

a leak in the system� Immediately close the LPG
cylinder valve and have the system inspected by a

qualied RV service technician.

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�

LPG regulators must always be installed with the

diaphragm vent facing downward. Regulators

that are not located in compartments have been

equipped with a protective cover. Make sure that
the regulator vent faces downward and the cover
is kept in place to minimize vent blockage, which

could result in excessive gas pressure, causing re

WARNING

or explosion.

WARNING

Leaking LPG may ignite, causing a re or

explosion, which could result in serious bodily

injury, property damage, and/or death.

2020 Caravel 6-7

Exterior

LPG Tanks

The following procedure outlines the proper method of
removing and installing LPG bottles:

1� Turn the knob on your automatic regulator until

the arrow points to the tank opposite the one to be
removed� Shut off the gas valve on the tank to be
removed�

WARNING

Your LPG tanks must be lled as directed by the

tank manufacturer. Instructions are located on a

decal near the ll valve. The decal must not be

defaced.

2� Disconnect the rubber gas line at the tank to be

removed. (The green plastic tting is a right-hand

thread and no tools should be used�)

3� Turn the large clamping T-handle counterclockwise

until the hold-down bracket is loosened enough
to be able to remove the tank� If your trailer is
equipped with a gas tank cover, the T-handle must
be removed, and then remove the cover, before
removing the bottle

WARNING

Do not remove the center hold-down rod.

LPG Tank Installation:

1� Place the tanks in position on the A-frame and

tank cross-member so that it rests on the upper
collar of both tanks with the collar rims engaged
in the grooves on the underside of the bracket� If
your trailer is equipped with a tank cover, it should
be positioned over the tanks 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

tanks are held rmly in place.

WARNING

The LPG tanks are securely mounted on the front

A- frame of your trailer. If these tanks 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.

Exterior LPG Port

An exterior LPG port quick-connect may be installed on
the hitch A-frame of your trailer� An LPG supply line is
shipped with the trailer in the loose parts box� This can
be used to connect a lantern or other appliance that
uses a one-pound, low pressure LPG tank supply to
the exterior port�

To assemble, install a male quick-connect coupler to

one end of the supply hose. Then add a are tting to

the other end of the supply hose and install a one-

pound tank coupler to the are tting. This assembly

can be installed into the appliance in place of the one
pound LPG tank�

3� Test ttings with liquid soap free of ammonia or

chlorine, or products deigned for testing, such as
Snoop® liquid leak detector�

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 appliance, etc�

1� Exterior LPG Port

2� Quick-Connect Sleeve

3� Shutoff Lever

NOTE

Use only the LPG tanks furnished with your trailer.

If replacement is required, it must be a bottle of the

same size and design.

6-8 2020 Caravel

Basic Rules For LPG Safety

A warning label is displayed in the cooking area
reminding you to provide an adequate supply of fresh
air for combustion� The amount of oxygen supply in a
trailer is limited due to its compact design� When using
the cooking appliances, proper ventilation will prevent
dangers of asphyxiation� It is especially important that
cooking appliances not be used for comfort heating
as the danger of asphyxiation is greater when the
appliance is used for long periods of time�

WARNING

A warning label has been located near the

LPG container. This label reads: DO NOT FILL

CONTAINER(S) TO MORE THAN 80 PERCENT OF

CAPACITY. Overlling the LPG container can result

in uncontrolled gas ow, which can cause re or

explosion. A properly lled container will contain

approximately 80 percent of its volume as

liquid LP gas.

WARNING

Exterior

WARNING

Do not bring or store LPG tanks, gasoline, or other

ammable liquids inside the vehicle because a re

or explosion may result.

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�

If You Smell Gas

1� Extinguish any open ames, 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�

Do not store LPG tanks within a vehicle. LPG

tanks 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.

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 res or asphyxiation.

2020 Caravel 6-9

Exterior

NOTES

2020 Caravel6-10

Section 7

TOWING

TOWING � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � 7-1

TOW VEHICLE � � � � � � � � � � � � � 7-2

BRAKES � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � 7-2

Electronic Brake Controller � � � � � � � 7-2

Proper Electric Brake Use � � � � � � � � 7-2

Breakaway Switch � � � � � � � � � � � 7-3

Loading � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � 7-3

Weighing Your Trailer � � � � � � � � � � 7-4

Hitching Up � � � � � � � � � � � � � 7-4

7-Way Plug � � � � � � � � � � � 7-4

Equalizing Hitch Load Distribution � � � � 7-5

Wireless Observation System � � � � � � 7-5

TOWING TIPS AND INFORMATION � � � � 7-5

Tracking Observation � � � � � � � � � � 7-5

General Information � � � � � � � � � � 7-5

Cooling System Overload � � � � � � � � 7-6

Downhill and Non-level Driving � � � � � � 7-6

Off-Road Towing � � � � � � � � � � � 7-6

When Being Passed � � � � � � � � � � 7-6

Passing � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � 7-6

Backing Up � � � � � � � � � � � � � 7-7

Stopped On a Hill � � � � � � � � � � � 7-7

Controlling Sway or Fishtailing � � � � � � 7-7

Equipment � � � � � � � � � � � 7-7

Tongue weight � � � � � � � � � � 7-7

Driving � � � � � � � � � � � � � 7-7

Corrective Measures � � � � � � � 7-8

Sway Control Device � � � � � � � � � 7-8

2020 Caravel 7-1

Towing

Tow Vehicle

When buying a new vehicle to tow your trailer, we
suggest including towing options offered by most tow
vehicle manufacturers� These include such things as a
heavy-duty alternator and radiator, heavy-duty springs
and shock absorbers, transmission cooler, heavy-duty

fan and asher unit, etc., for the make of the vehicle.

WARNING

Springs that are too stiff can hinder the action of

the weight equalizing hitch and prevent the transfer

of weight to the front of the vehicle.

NOTE

Only use springs heavy enough to support your

loaded vehicle (not including trailer). Having a too

harsh spring rate on your tow vehicle will only

shorten the life of the tow vehicle and trailer, and

will cause your trips to be less enjoyable.

Transmissions may be manual or automatic, but an
automatic transmission may prolong your tow vehicle’s
life and generally does a better job of controlling engine
loads than does 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� Auto
dealers are provided with guidelines to use when
helping a customer decide on a tow vehicle� Guidelines
are not determined solely by the power output of the
engine� The gear ratio of the differential is also a very
important part of the guideline�

Inspect the tow 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�

Brakes

All trailers are equipped with Dexter Nev-R-Adjust
brakes� Please follow all maintenance procedures
in the Dexter user’s manual provided in the owner’s
packet�

Electronic Brake Controller

The trailer 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 ensure satisfactory braking
action, install an electronic controller in line with the
brakes in your tow vehicle�

An electronic controller 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�

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.

Proper Electric Brake Use

Proper synchronization of tow vehicle to trailer braking
can only be accomplished by road testing� Brake
lockup, grab, or harshness is quite often due to lack
of synchronization between the tow vehicle and the
trailer being towed, a too-high threshold voltage (over 2
volts), or under adjusted brakes�

WARNING

Never use your tow vehicle or trailer brakes alone

to stop the combined load.

WARNING

The braking system should be checked and

serviced by qualied, certied technicians only.

Failure to do so could result in loss of control

of your vehicle or the trailer, causing damage to

property, injury, and/or death.

7-2 2020 Caravel

Towing

Breakaway Switch

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 sufcient 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�

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 the pin from the switch
because this will apply the trailer brakes�

WARNING

Do not use the breakaway switch as a parking
brake. If the battery should go dead, the trailer

parking brake would no longer be applied. Failure

to comply could cause damage to property, injury,

and/or death.

Loading

When towing a trailer, you are subject to new and
different challenges on the highway than you may have
previously encountered� Towing a trailer is no small
responsibility and should be undertaken with great care

and safety rst in mind. An accident with a tow vehicle

and trailer can have much greater consequences than
carelessness with a small car� Like an airline pilot who
is responsible for expensive equipment and many lives,
you should take your responsibilities as a tow vehicle
driver very seriously and learn all you can about
doing the job safely and well� Balancing the load and
preparing the trailer and tow vehicle are critical to safe
handling�

One of the most critical aspects of safely towing a
trailer is knowing the weights involved and where they

are placed. The rst thing to determine is how much
is being towed and conrming that it is within the

capacities of the equipment being used� Determining
where the load is placed is critical to the way your rig
will handle on the road�

Know what your trailer weighs loaded� Load your trailer
including water, propane, etc and take it to a public
scales� Weigh each axle of your vehicle� Refer to your
axle weight and tire limits to see if you are within a safe
range� Total all axle weights, ensuring you are below
the Gross Vehicle Weight Rating (GVWR)�

Make sure your load is balanced� Do not load too
much on one side� A balanced load is much easier to
tow or drive� Front to back balance is also important�
Step back and look at your trailer, making sure that
there is not too much weight on the hitch, or on the
rear of the trailer� Secure all items, as loose items
can cause damage and become a safety issue� The
Cargo Carrying Capacity tag shown below is installed
on every trailer and can be found on the inside of the
screen door on your trailer�

RECREATIONAL VEHICLE TRAILER CARGO CARRYING CAPACITY

VIN #################

THE WEIGHT OF CARGO SHOULD NEVER EXCEED

XXX kg or XXX lbs

CAUTION

A full load of water equals XXX kg or XXX lbs of cargo @ 1 kg/L (8.3 lb/gal)

Airstream weighs the trailer as nished to arrive at the

trailer’s weight� That number is subtracted from the
GVWR of the trailer and listed under THE WEIGHT
OF CARGO SHOULD NEVER EXCEED on the tag,
The total weight of any and all cargo, including dealer

modications or additions, water, and propane should

never exceed the number listed�

As cargo is added, removed, or shifts in location, the
weight on the axle(s) and hitch will change� Also, the
hitch and axle weights will change as a consequence
of the weight of the LP tank(s) diminishing from
use of propane, and/or the transfer of weight as a
consequence of water in the fresh water tank being
used and transferred to the grey and black tanks� In
shorter units, rear bath models especially, when the LP
tanks are empty and fresh water has been transferred
to the grey and black holding tanks, the reduction in

hitch weight may be signicant. For this reason, we

recommend that the grey and black tanks be emptied
before traveling�

When loading the trailer, keep the following in mind:

• GVWR

• Gross Axle Weight Rating (GAWR)

• Tire Weight Rating

• Cargo

Never exceed these ratings� Your safety depends on
not overloading the trailer, trailer axles, and tires� Refer

to Section 4 - Floor Plan and Specications for rating

list�

2020 Caravel 7-3

Towing

Weighing Your Trailer

The illustration below shows how to weigh the trailer on
scales�

1

2

1� Trailer’s total weight, cannot exceed GVWR�

2� Trailer’s weight on axles cannot exceed GAWR�

3� Weight on trailer tongue�

To determine that the GAWR is not exceeded, 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�

Chock wheels and place the trailer on a scale with
both axles only on the scale (see illustration)� If the
weight on the axles exceeds the axle system’s GAWR,
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 10 to 15% of the trailer’s
total weight, and must not exceed the tow vehicle’s
or the hitch’s maximum weight rating� 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�

3

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 4x4 piece
of wood on the two round pieces and screw the jack
extension down on the top of the 4x4 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�

NOTE

Be sure trailer is level when reading scales.

Hitching Up

The process of hitching up your trailer is something
that will become almost second nature with practice�
The following section includes proper hitch load
distribution� Proper training on connecting your trailer
to a tow vehicle is essential for safety� Please see your

dealer or other qualied personnel for instruction on the

proper hitching of your trailer� Safety chain use on the
hitch is required in all states�

Use a scale, such as a bathroom scale, that has a
lower weight limit than your tongue load, to check the
tongue weight by using the following method (see
illustration)�

2 FT.

2

1

1 Ft.

3

1� Bathroom Scale

2� Pipe

3� Wood Support

7-Way Plug

1

7

6

5

2

3

4

1� Black, 12-Volt (+)

2� Green, Clearance Lights/Taillights

3� Red, Left Turn/Stop

4� White, 12-Volt (-)

5� Blue, Brake

6� Brown, Right Turn/Stop

7� Blank

NOTE

The 7-Way Plug is spliced to the main harness in

the area of the 12-volt distribution panel in front of

the trailer.

7-4 2020 Caravel

Towing

Equalizing Hitch Load Distribution

When a trailer is properly hitched up 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� One
third of this weight transfer will be carried by the front
wheels and 1/3 by the rear wheels of the tow vehicle
(See illustration)� 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�

34%

33% 33%

WARNING

The tongue weight should be approximately 10 to

15% of the trailer’s total weight. Under no condition

should it exceed the tow vehicles hitch rating.

Please refer to the tow vehicles documentation for

your vehicles hitch rating information.

Wireless Observation System

Your travel trailer is equipped with a Wireless
Observation system consisting of a camera mounted
at the rear of the trailer and a wireless monitor for your
tow vehicle� This system will allow you to see what is
behind you while towing and provide visibility when
backing up the trailer�

NOTE

Carefully read and understand all manufacturer’s

instructions provided in your owner’s packet prior

to operating.

Towing Tips and Information

We want every Airstream owner to be a safe and
courteous driver� A few hours of towing practice in a
large, empty parking lot will make pulling your trailer
over the road much easier� Mark off two corners of the
parking lot for left and right turns� These corners may
also be used to practice backing and parking�

Tracking Observation

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�

General Information

After thoroughly inspecting your hitch, brakes, and

tires, you should be ready to tow. Check trafc, signal

when 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

trafc. 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�

NOTE

Truck or trailer type fender, door grip, and rear

view mirrors are a must for maximum visibility and

required by law in most states.

2020 Caravel 7-5

Towing

Cooling System Overload

When towing, 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

• Driving with long, idle periods in trafc jams

If the tow vehicle’s temperature gauge, or indicator
light indicates overheating, and the air conditioner is
on, turn it off, pull over in a safe place, and apply the
emergency brake� Increase the engine idle speed�

Lift the engine hood and check for uid leaks at the
radiator overow outlet. Ensure that all drive belts are

intact and the radiator fan is turning� If you have a

problem, have it xed 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, resume normal driving after ten
minutes�

WARNING

Never open a radiator cap when the tow vehicle is

hot. Check the coolant level when the vehicle is

cool.

Downhill and Non-level Driving

When going downhill in dry weather, downshift so that
engine compression will slow the whole rig down� Take
dips and depressions in the road slowly and do not
resume normal driving speeds until you are sure that
the trailer wheels are clear of the dip�

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.

Off-Road Towing

When driving in mud and sand, let the momentum
carry the rig through� Apply power gently and use as
little as possible� Stay in the tracks of the vehicle ahead
and keep the tow vehicle in the highest possible gear� If
you get stuck, it is best to tow out the entire rig together
without unhitching�

When Being Passed

Despite the best hitch, you will notice that whenever
a large bus or truck overtakes your rig, the displaced

air rst pushes the trailer rear slightly to the right and

then affects the front� It may be necessary to steer
very slightly, momentarily, toward the bus or truck to
help compensate for the sway induced by the passing
vehicle� Do not apply the vehicle brakes, as this

can tend to exaggerate the situation. You may nd,
however, that briey applying the trailer brakes with

your manual control will help eliminate sway�

On a two-lane road, cars may line up behind you
because you travel at a lower speed� It is both
courteous and sensible, if you are able, 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�

Passing

On freeways or expressways, pick the lane you want
and try to 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�

7-6 2020 Caravel

Towing

Backing Up

When backing up, the important thing to remember is
to do everything slowly and to correct immediately if
you see the trailer turning the wrong way� Concentrate
on the rear of the trailer� With your tow vehicle and
trailer in a straight line, back up slowly and turn the
bottom of the steering wheel in the direction you want
the trailer to go� Watch out the window or in the mirror
until the rear of the trailer is pointing in the desired
direction� Your tow vehicle will be following the trailer in
an arc� Straighten the tow vehicle and trailer by turning
the steering wheel more sharply, and then, when they
are in line, straighten the steering wheel�

Always try to back to your left because the visibility is

much better. When you don’t make it on the rst try, it

is usually much easier to pull forward to your original
position and start over, or at least pull forward until the
rig is straight, and then start backing�

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�

Stopped On a Hill

Refer to the following warning if stopped on a hill for a
prolonged period of time�

Controlling Sway or Fishtailing

Sway or shtailing is the sideways action of a

trailer caused by external forces� It is common for
travel trailers to sway in response to strong winds,
crosswinds, when passed by or passing a semi-tractor
and trailer, or driving downhill�

WARNING

Excessive sway or shtailing of your travel trailer

can lead to the rollover of the trailer and tow

vehicle. Serious injury or death can occur. It

is important that you read and understand the

information in this section.

Sway or shtailing of your recreation vehicle can be

controlled and is primarily impacted by four factors:

• Equipment

• Tongue Weight

• Driving

• Corrective Measures

Equipment

When hitched together, the trailer and the tow vehicle
must be level� The tires of both the trailer and tow
vehicle should be in good condition and properly

inated to their recommended pressures.

Braking is a very important factor in vehicle control�
Refer to Brakes (and Electronic Brake Controller) in
this section�

WARNING

Chock the trailer wheels when stopping on a hill
or slope. Leaving your tow vehicle in gear is not

enough for standstill safety. Do not use trailer

brakes as parking brakes.

2020 Caravel 7-7

We recommend a friction sway damper or hitch with
built-in sway control be provided for your unit� Please
consult your dealer regarding this equipment� Also,
refer to Sway Control Device in this section for more
information�

Tongue weight

Refer to Weighing Your Trailer and , also, Equalizing
Hitch Load Distribution in this section�

Driving

This is the most important component� The tendency
for the vehicle to sway increases with speed therefore,
obey all speed limits and reduce speed during
inclement weather or windy conditions�

Towing

Corrective Measures

If sway occurs, the following techniques should be
used:

1� Slow down immediately, remove your foot from the

accelerator� Avoid using the tow vehicle brakes
unless there is a danger of collision� Reduce speed
gradually whenever possible� If you can do so
safely, use the brake hand controller to gently and
progressively apply the trailer brakes� This will help
to keep the vehicles aligned� Practice using the
brake hand controller on a deserted parking lot�
Do not wait until an emergency occurs before using
it� Location of the brake hand controller is important
and should be made easily accessible�

2� Steer as little as possible while maintaining control

of the vehicle� Because of natural reaction lag
time, quick steering movements to counter trailer
sway will actually cause increased sway and loss
of control� Keep both hands on the wheel� Hold
the wheel as straight as possible until stability is
regained�

3� Do not jam on the brakes or attempt to press

on the accelerator to speed your way out of the

shtailing. Both actions make the situation worse

and could cause severe injury or death�

Sway Control Device

Although Airstream has not intruded into the hitch

manufacturer’s eld of expertise and performed formal
testing, we nd the vast majority of Airstream owners

purchase 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 is
our understanding that the sway control device
will reduce the amount of movement, make towing
more comfortable, and add some safety� Follow the
directions of the sway control manufacturer when
having the device installed and when using it�

4� Once the swaying is under control, stop as soon

as possible� Check tire pressures, cargo weight
distribution, and look for any signs of mechanical
failure� Travel at reduced speeds that permit full

control until the problem can be identied and

corrected�

7-8 2020 Caravel

Section 8

MAINTENANCE

MAINTENANCE � � � � � � � � � � � � � � 8-1

MAINTENANCE SCHEDULE � � � � � � � 8-2

SUGGESTED MAINTENANCE AND

REPLACEMENT PARTS � � � � � � � 8-3

Exterior Care � � � � � � � � � � � � � 8-4

TIRES � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � 8-5

Tire Changing � � � � � � � � � � � � 8-5

Jack Location � � � � � � � � � � � � � 8-5

Tire Load and Ination Information � � � � 8-6

Proper Tire Ination � � � � � � � � 8-6

Underinated Tires � � � � � � � � 8-6

How Overloading Affects Your Tires � � 8-6

Weighing Your Trailer Or Towed

Vehicle � � � � � � � � � � 8-6

Tire Care � � � � � � � � � � � � � � 8-6

Tire Care Tips � � � � � � � � � � � � 8-6

Tire Inspection and Storage � � � � � � � 8-7

Tire and Wheel Replacement � � � � � � 8-7

Lug Nut Torquing � � � � � � � � � � � 8-8

Spare Tire Carrier � � � � � � � � � � � 8-8

Rubber Torsion Axle Alignment

Specications � � � � � � � � 8-8

Nev-R-Lube Drums/Bearings � � � � 8-8

Nev-R-Lube Bearing Inspection � � � 8-8

Brakes � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � 8-9

POWER JACK � � � � � � � � � � � � � 8-9

Replacing Power Head � � � � � � � � � 8-9

Power Jack Maintenance � � � � � � � � 8-9

Breakaway Switch � � � � � � � � � � � 8-9

BATTERY (LEAD ACID) � � � � � � � � �8-10

Battery Amp Draw and Testing � � � � � �8-10

Battery Cleaning � � � � � � � � � � �8-10

Battery Storage � � � � � � � � � � � �8-10

WATER PUMP � � � � � � � � � � � � � 8-11

Water Pump Access Locations � � � � � �8-11

Strainer Cleaning � � � � � � � � � � � 8-11

FRESH WATER TANKS AND DRAINING � � � 8-11

Drain Valves � � � � � � � � � � � � � 8-11

Drain Valve Locations � � � � � � �8-11

Fresh Water Tank Draining � � � � � � �8-11

Water Heater Draining � � � � � � � � �8-12

Water Heater Bypass Valve � � � � �8-12

Water Heater Bypass Valve

Locations � � � � � � � � �8-12

Sanitizing � � � � � � � � � � � � � �8-12

BLACK AND GRAY WATER TANK

DRAINING � � � � � � � � � � � � �8-12

Black Water Tank Dumping � � � � � � �8-12

Black Water Tank Flush � � � � � � � � �8-13

Drain Systems Cleaning � � � � � � � �8-13

WINTERIZING AND STORAGE � � � � � �8-14

MAIN DOOR CARE � � � � � � � � � � �8-15

Lubrication � � � � � � � � � � � � � �8-15

Adjustment � � � � � � � � � � � � � �8-15

WINDOWS � � � � � � � � � � � � � �8-15

Sticking Windows � � � � � � � � � � �8-15

ELECTRICAL DIAGRAMS � � � � � � � �8-16

12-Volt Main Schematic � � � � � � � � �8-16

120-Volt/30 Amp Diagrams � � � � � � �8-17

Solar Panel Wiring � � � � � � � � � �8-22

FAQS AND ANSWERS � � � � � � � � � �8-27

2020 Caravel 8-1

Maintenance

Maintenance Schedule

WARNING

Failure to maintain your trailer can cause pre-

mature 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, lead acid

only.

Smoke Alarm Test and replace battery as

required.

Tires Check tire pressure (See

Specications).

Hitch Check for loose bolts or

unusual wear.

GFI Circuit Breaker Test and record.

Range Exhaust

Hood

Roof Vent Elevator
Screws

Main Door Step Lubricate and inspect moving

Every 10,000 miles or 6 months

Brakes Inspect or replace as

Nev-R-Lube Visually inspect wheel

Tires Inspect and rotate.

Spare Tire Carrier Lubricate moving parts.

Windows, and Door
Seals

Exterior Wax�

Escape Window Lubricate latches with WD-40

Clean fan blades and wash
lter.

Lubricate with light household

oil�

parts.

necessary.

bearings at tire rotation. Refer
to Dexter’s recommendation
www.dexteraxle.com or call
[phone].

Clean with mild detergent and

coat with “Slipicone”�

or light household oil.

* As a battery ages and becomes less efcient,
the water level should be checked more often and
replenished only with distilled water. Checking water
level does not apply to Glass Mat Batteries.

Every 5,000 miles or 90 days

Main Door Latch Lubricate with dry graphite

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.

Wheel Lug Nuts Torque Aluminum wheels to

110 ft. lbs., Steel wheels to 100
ft. lbs.

Breakaway Switch Pull pin and lubricate with

household oil. (See further
instructions in this section.)

7-Way Plug Spray with contact cleaner.

Hitch Ball Lubricate with hitch ball lube or

wheel bearing grease.

Every year

Battery Clean, neutralize, and coat

terminals with petroleum jelly.

LPG Tanks Have purged by LPG supplier.

Seams Check and reseal exterior

seams, windows, lights, and
vents as needed.

Hitch Coupler and
Ball

Interior Cabinetry Visual Inspection of latches

Ensure all parts operate freely.
Replace any component if
worn or damaged.

Locks, Hinges and Slides.
Silicone Spray as needed.

8-2 2020 Caravel

Maintenance

Suggested Maintenance and Replacement Parts

(Part numbers listed are Airstream part numbers and can be ordered by calling a Certied Airstream Dealer.)

WARNING

Always replace the bulb or light xture with the correct bulb for that light or matching xture. Failure to

heed this warning could cause re, property damage, personal injury, or death.

Exterior 12-Volt Lighting

LED License Plate PN – 512409

LED Clearance Light, Amber PN – 512859

LED Clearance Light, Red PN – 512860

LED Step Light PN – 512252

LED Utility Light PN – 512532

Convenience Light (Dump Valve) PN – 512533

LED Awning Flex Light Strip (19’ and 20’) PN – 512918-01

LED Awning Flex Light Strip (23’ and 25’) PN – 512918-02

LED Awning Flex Light Strip (26’, 27’, 28’, and 30’) PN – 512918-03

NOTE: Most Exterior Lighting is LED and a replacement xture will be required.

Interior 12-Volt Lighting

Reading Light PN – 512719

LED Light (Wet Location) PN – 512478

LED Spot Light w/Frosted Lens PN – 512936

LED Light with switch (Single) PN – 512736

LED Light with switch (Double) PN – 512737

NOTE: Most Interior Lighting is LED and a replacement xture will be required.

Replacement Bulbs And Fuses

Baraldi Range Hood Fuse 3.15A 250V Glass Fuse PN – 512210-104

Baraldi Range Hood Bulb JC 10 watt G4 PN – 512210-102

Replacement Breakers - USA Breakers

20 amp Breaker, 12V DC, Type II, #12V20APP PN – 510947-20

25 amp Breaker, 12V DC, Type II, #12V25APP PN – 510947-25

30 amp Breaker, 12V DC, Type II, #12V30APP PN – 510947-30

50 amp Breaker, 12V DC, Type II #12V50APP PN – 510947-50

Breaker, Bryant, 15Amp SPST PN – 510564-09

Breaker, Type BRD, BD 20-20 PN – 510564-2020

Breaker, Type BRD, BD 30-20 PN – 510564-3020

GFI Breaker, Type BR, 20GFI, #GFCB-120 PN – 510564-20GFI

2020 Caravel 8-3

Maintenance

Replacement Rivets

Interior Exterior Underbelly

Part Number 330127-05 330127-08 330126-03 330126-04 330034 330038

Rivet Name AD45ABS AD48ABS SSD44SSBS SSD45SSBS AD68ABSLF AD54ABSLF

Head Style Dome Head Dome Head Dome Head Dome Head Large Flange Large Flange

Body
Diameter
(Inches)

Hole Size 0�129-0�133 0�129-0�133 0�129-0�133 0�129-0�133 0�192-0�196 0�160-0�164

Drill Number 30 30 30 30 11 20

Grip Range In

(Inches)

Length Under

Head (Max.
Inches)

Head

Diameter
(Nominal)

Head Height

(Max. Inches)

Typical Sheer
Strength (lb.)*

Typical Tensile
Strength (lb.)*

*Values shown are a guide only and may vary depending upon the application.

0.125 (1/8) 0.125 (1/8) 0.125 (1/8) 0.125 (1/8) 0.187 (3/16) 0.156 (5/32)

0�251-�312 0�376-0�500 0�188-0�250 0�251-0�312 0�376-0�500 0�126-0�250

0�453 0�640 0�400 0�438 0�690 0�415

0�250 0�250 0�250 0�250 0�625 0�468

0�040 0�040 0�040 0�040 0�092 0�075

155 155 520 520 85 225

235 235 600 600 135 350

Replacement Filters

Air Conditioner PN – 690323-322

Range Hood PN – 512210-100

Touch-up Caulking

Caulk, Seaml, White PN – 360301-02

Fil-Stik, Black PN – 28431W-01

Fil-Stik, Grey PN – 28431W-02

Fil-Stik, White PN – 28431W-03

Fil-Stik, Light Maple PN – 28431W-04

Exterior Care

The following exterior care products are recommended
by Airstream. Read and follow label directions. Exterior
sealant should be checked and resealed once a year.

Walbernize Super Seal (PN - 28433W) - Use
on exterior aluminum of trailer; recommend two
applications a year.

Acryl-R Seam Sealer (PN - 28430W-01 [16 oz can­Gray]) - Use anywhere a ne bead of Gray sealant is

required.

Acryl-R Seam Sealer (PN - 28430W-04 [16 oz can­White]) - Use anywhere a ne bead of White sealant is

required.

Acryl-R Seam Sealer (PN - 28430W-06 [16 oz can­Clear]) - Use anywhere a ne bead of Clear sealant is

required.

AdSeal Premium Quality Sealant Adhesive
(PN - 365330-01 [10 oz tube-White]) - Use anywhere

a thicker bead of White sealant is required.

AdSeal Premium Quality Sealant Adhesive
(PN - 365330-03 [10 oz tube-Gray]) - Use anywhere a

thicker bead of Gray sealant is required.

AdSeal Premium Quality Sealant Adhesive
(PN - 365330-04 [10 oz tube-Black]) - Use anywhere

a thicker bead of Black sealant is required.

8-4 2020 Caravel

Tires

Your trailer is equipped at the factory with name brand
trailer tires. Most Airstream dealers cannot make
adjustments to tires. An Airstream, or tire dealer that
handles that particular brand, must do this. If you
experience tire problems, contact the nearest dealer.

Tire Changing

Maintenance

WARNING

Never attempt to change any tire on the trailer

without securely chocking the trailer’s 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.

To change a tire with a jack, see the label afxed to the
underbelly located to the rear of the wheels. This label
reads JACK with an arrow pointing to a plate riveted
to the mainframe rail where the jack head must be

placed�

Jack Location

NOTE

Airstream does not supply a jack with the trailer.

Leveling blocks can be used instead of a jack to
change a at tire. Position the leveling block under the
trailer’s good tire. This will raise the at tire clear of the
ground. 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

The maximum speed rating on the tires installed

on your trailer is 87 MPH. Do not exceed this

rating. Failure to heed this warning could cause

catastrophic tire failure resulting in property

damage, personal injury, and/or death.

WARNING

When removing aluminum-forged wheels from

spindle, it is very important to mark them to ensure

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.

WARNING

Wheel separation can occur:

1. On rst trip, tighten wheel nuts at beginning of
trip, and at 10, 25, and 50 miles.

2. Thereafter, check wheel nuts before each trip.

3. Following winter storage, check wheel nuts
before beginning a trip

4. Following excessive braking, inspect wheel
nuts�

NOTE

Torque Aluminum Wheels to 110 ft. lbs and Steel

Wheels to 100 ft. lbs.

In an emergency, remove a at tire. The independent
suspension of the rubber torsion axle allows four- or
six wheeled units to be safely towed on three or ve
wheels for a short distance (100 miles maximum) and
only at a low speed (30 MPH).

Be especially careful when 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.

2020 Caravel 8-5

Maintenance

Tire Load and Ination Information

Maintaining proper tire ination pressure is essential for
both tire safety and performance.

Proper Tire Ination

The level of air in your tires affects your vehicle’s
overall performance. A maximum ination pressure
specication is found on the trailer’s exterior on a metal
tag riveted to the lower front, roadside of the trailer, as
well as on the original equipment tires.

Air pressure should be checked based on the load on
each individual tire. Cold Ination Pressure should be
adjusted to handle the maximum tire load, and all tires
on the axle should carry the same ination pressure.
Cold tire ination pressure is the tire pressure checked
in the morning before you drive more than a few miles
or before rising ambient temperatures or the sun’s
radiant heat affects it.

Underinated Tires

Underination bring a higher risk of damage due to
road hazards, reduce casing durability, cause a loss in
fuel economy, and will result in uneven or irregular tire
wear. Severe underination brings about an increased
risk of tread separation, handling difculties, and
possible tire failure, caused by overheating.

When minimum ination pressure requirements are not
met, tire durability and optimum operating conditions
are compromised. Tire ination pressure should always
meet the guidelines for vehicle weight.

Observe the following:

• It may be necessary to inate your tires at a truck
stop or truck service center in order to achieve
adequate air pressure for your trailer’s needs.

• Only permanent air seal metal valve caps should be
used.

• Be safe - if a tire has been run in a 20% underinated
condition, it must be dismounted and inspected by a
trained professional. It should not be aired up without
a full inspection or without using a safety cage. Use
a calibrated gauge. If your tire is rated for higher
ination pressures, a special gauge will be required
designed for larger tires.

• Do not bleed air from warm tires to reduce pressure
buildup.

• Do not inate tires to cold PSI rating beyond rim
specications.

How Overloading Affects Your Tires

Tire pressure is what enables your trailer tire to
support loads, thus, overloading can have serious
consequences. Too much weight can cause stress
on the suspension system components, brake failure,
handling and steering problems, irregular tire wear,
and possible tire failure. If you discover that your tires
cannot handle the load, lighten the weight of the load
on your tires.

Weighing Your Trailer Or Towed Vehicle

Since a trailer or towed vehicle adds to the load on
the tires, it is crucial to properly weigh towed vehicles.
Refer to Section 7 - Towing section for important
detailed information on loading and weighing of the

trailer�

Tire Care

The most important function of tires are to provide
traction while moving, and grip when steering or
stopping. The tires on your trailer are designed for
highway use and must be properly maintained in order
to maximize tire life, as well to provide a safe mode of
transportation.

Tire Care Tips

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. Heed the maximum

load-carrying capability of your tires.

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 justied by driving
conditions, or in excess of speeds recommended
for the tires you are using.

5� Make every effort to avoid running over objects

that may damage the tire through impact or cutting,
such as chuck holes, glass, metal, etc.

8-6 2020 Caravel

Maintenance

6� Never drive on smooth tires. Tires should be

removed when 2/32 in. of tread depth remains. In
most states it is illegal to drive with less than 2/32
in. remaining tread depth.

7� Park out of the sun whenever possible when in

warm climates. In desert regions, use tire covers to
prevent ultra violet light deterioration to tires.

Tire Inspection and Storage

Before taking your trailer on a trip or when removing
it from an extended storage period, make it a practice
to inspect the overall condition of your tires. Check for
any type of condition or damage that might result in
failure. A thorough check should include both inside
and outside sidewalls, tread area and the condition
of hardware such as valve stems, valve caps, and
wheels. The tread should be checked for any unusual
wear, cracking, penetrations and/or cuts. An uneven
wear pattern can indicate misalignment or worn
suspension parts.

Since many RVs are used seasonally and sometimes
stored for extended times, it is possible that tires will
take many years to wear out. Tires, as any rubber
product, will age over time. If tires show cracking
in the sidewall or tread surfaces that are more than
2/32 in. deep, they should be replaced before your
next trip or vacation. Store your RV in a cool dry area
away from major heat sources and extreme cold.
An enclosed storage area is best with no exposure
to electromagnetic sources such as generators or
transformers. If you must keep your trailer outside,
cover your tires from direct sunlight. Take your trailer
to your tire dealer for service to check or correct any of
these conditions.

Tire and Wheel Replacement

It is possible to replace your tires with a different size,
in some instances, to increase your load capacity with
a different ination pressure. If there is a reason to
replace your tires with a different size, make sure the
following checks are made before the purchase:

• Does the replacement tire have the load capacity that
is needed for my trailer and will it t properly inside

the wheel well?

• Will the overall diameter difference affect the braking

system?

• Is the increase in air pressure compatible with the
maximum rated pressure stamped on the rim?

Most trailers are towed at or near maximum loads
during hot weather and then are left idle for months. In
normal use, oils in the tire come to the surface during
exing and protect the rubber from ultraviolet light. But
when the trailer tires sit idle too long, natural aging may
cause the rubber to crack prematurely, especially in
the sidewall area. Trailer tires over 5 years old should
be inspected by a tire expert for cracking and replaced
even if it has no apparent tread wear.

Choose a tire adequate for the load. The load rating
printed on the sidewall will show the maximum load
that can be carried at a dened pressure.

A Goodyear Endurance ST225/75R15 tire inated to 80
psi (MAX.) has a load capacity of 2830 lbs.

An ST tire is a Special Trailer tire with a section width
of 225 mm, a height-to-width ratio of 75%, and radial
construction with a diameter of 15 in. As the width­to-height ratio becomes smaller, the tire has a lower
prole.

WARNING

Do not mismatch wheels and tires.

Axle systems are installed with hubs and drums
that are compatible with many wheels used in the
recreational vehicle industry that have matching
bolt patterns. If the original manufacturer-installed
equipment is in need of replacement, the wheel
manufacturer should be contacted for proof of
compatibility prior to replacement and use.

Customers replacing original equipment that has
not been tested for compatibility must ensure the
replacements are compatible to the hub and drum
assembly installed. Such elements of compatibility
include, but are not limited to:

• Diameter of the hub-mounting surface.

• Stud length and diameter.

• Location and number of studs.

• Center hole diameter for the wheel.

• Wheel-mounting offset from the rim center.

• Rated capacity of the wheel.

• Wheel fastener torque.

• Wheel nut size and shape.

• Impact of any added wheel accessories (such as

decorative center caps) that could affect proper
seating of the wheel to the hub surface.

2020 Caravel 8-7

Maintenance

Refer to the following table for wheel specications.

Wheel Specications

Size/Center Size

In Inches

15 x 6 / 5.5 6 All Models

All wheels have zero offset.

Lug Pattern Model

Lug Nut Torquing

Trailer wheels must carry much higher loads per wheel
than passenger car or truck wheels. Each wheel may
carry 1000 pounds and higher. Furthermore, wheels on
tandem axle trailers do not steer, and are subjected to
very high side load stress whenever the trailer makes
a tight turn. When going around corners, especially on
slow, tight turns, the wheels are subject to very strong
side loads. Although the materials and manufacturing
methods are maximized for this kind of service, these
extra loads can cause stress, which can result in
exing and loosening of wheel nuts.

Before each trip and any time a wheel is replaced, be
sure to tighten the wheel nuts, following the lug-pattern
sequence shown below. If the wheel was replaced,
check the torque every 10, 25, and 50 miles.

1

3

5

6

4

2

Spare Tire Carrier

The spare tire for Airstreams is stored under the front
of the trailer. The front handle of the tire carrier is a 1
in. 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 to be removed.

WARNING

The spare tire carrier is designed to carry an

undamaged tire and rim assembly of the type and

size specied for the trailer. Never place a severely

damaged wheel assembly with a damaged partial

tire, or a rim only, in the carrier.

Rubber Torsion Axle Alignment Specications

Toe-In and Camber Specications

Toe-In each side 1/16 in. Tolerance 1/8 in. + or -

Camber each side 3/4
degrees positive

Nev-R-Lube Drums/Bearings

All Caravel models are equipped with Nev-R-Lube
bearings. Dexter’s Nev-R-Lube bearings are comprised
of opposed tapered roller bearing cones sealed
inside of a precision ground, one-piece double cup
arrangement. These bearings are designed with
a small amount of axial end-play. The end-play is
essential to the longevity of the bearings service life.

Tolerance 3/4 degrees +

or -

If you notice wheel wobbling, or hear a rattling sound
coming from a wheel, especially at low speeds, a
wheel lug nut may have come loose. This problem is
usually caused by improper tightening, or by faulty or
damaged lug bolt threads.

If suspicious of a loose lug nut, safely stop the vehicle
as soon as possible. Put up warning devices. Remove
the lug caps and check the tightness of all the lug nuts.
Tighten all lug nuts to the specied torque, using a
torque wrench. If stud threads are damaged or faulty,
get professional service help.

NOTE

Use a torque wrench to tighten lug nuts.

Tightening by hand or with an impact wrench is not

recommended. Torque Aluminum Wheels to 110 ft.

lbs and Steel Wheels to 100 ft. lbs.

Nev-R-Lube Bearing Inspection

1� Jack trailer at marked JACK location pad behind

axle on main frame.

2� Check for excessive wheel end-clearance by

pulling the tire assembly toward you and by
pushing the assembly away from you. Slight end­play is acceptable (0.001 to 0.010 in.).

3� Rotate tire slowly forward and backward. The

wheel assembly should turn freely and smoothly.

8-8 2020 Caravel

Maintenance

4� Excessive wheel end-play, restriction to rotation,

noise, or bumpy rotation should be remedied by
replacing the bearing unit.

5� Bearing units should be inspected every year or

12,000 mi., whichever comes rst.

A slight amount of grease-weeping from the seal area
is normal. Excessive leakage may indicate abnormal
bearing operation. Bearing end-play inspection,
drum removal/installation, and bearing replacement
procedures are described in the Dexter Operation
Maintenance Manual enclosed in your owner’s packet.
Airstream recommends that these procedures are
performed by a qualied Dexter service technician, due
the need of specialized tools and training.

Brakes

Due to normal brake lining wear, the brakes and the
controller setting should be checked and readjusted
every six months or 10,000 miles, whichever comes
rst.

Power Jack

Replacing Power Head

1� Disconnect electrical lead from jack to camper.

Remove four screws located on each side of over.
Remove top cover. Slide bottom cover down jack

leg�

Power Jack Maintenance

1� Inspect at least twice each year for corrosion.

Clean with a solution of baking soda and water,
and then apply a thin coat of grease. The motor
ground screw and mounting bolts must be cleaned
too if a ground continuity problem occurs.

2� Once each year, extend jack as far as possible and

clean inner ram tube. Coat tube with light coat of
silicone spray lubricant. The Electric Drive Motor
Landing Leg system is protected by a 30 amp fuse.
If replacement is necessary, replace only with a
12VDC 30 amp automotive spade fuse.

3� Before each use, inspect jack tubes and replace if

bent or damaged.

4� The Robofoot does not need to be lubricated or

modied after installation.

NOTE

Leave tow vehicle transmission in NEUTRAL

when lifting both units. Dolly wheels are not

recommended. Always retract stabilizing jacks

before using your jack under load.

Breakaway Switch

2� Remove two screws attaching motor to jack.

Disconnect two electrical wires on motor from
switches. Lift motor off of jack.

3� Align motor shaft with groove pin in top of screw

shaft. Rotate motor so that slots align with two
threaded holes in mounting surface. Attach screws.

4� Reattach wires to motor switch. Verify ground

connection and attach top and lower motor cover
with four screws.

CAUTION

Be sure to follow manufacturer instructions.

1� Pin

2� Breakaway Switch

To prevent corrosion within the breakaway switch, pull
the pin out and spray the inside of the switch through
the hole with an electric contact cleaner (such as Spra­Kleen). Applying a drop of light household oil on the pin
and the groove near the base of the pin will allow the
pin to operate freely. Immediately reinsert pin. Perform
this procedure every 90 days.

CAUTION

Allow no more than 20 to 30 seconds pin

separation as damage to brake magnets may

occur.

2020 Caravel 8-9

Maintenance

Battery (Lead Acid)

Your Airstream trailer is factory equipped with an
Interstate battery (SRM-24). When solar panel
equipped an AGM GPL-24 battery will be installed.

Battery Amp Draw and Testing

For example, a battery with a 100 amp-hour capacity
can deliver 1 amp for 100 hours or it can deliver 100
amps for one hour. Batteries are able to deliver current
longer if they are discharged at a lower rate and deliver
less current at a higher discharge rate.

All batteries will have an Amp Hour (AH) rating. The
AH rating on a battery is its C/20 rate or 20 hour
discharge rate. As long as a battery is discharged over
a 20 hour, or longer period, it will deliver 100% of its
rated capacity. If it is discharged in less time at higher
currents it will deliver less capacity.

For proper load testing the battery needs to be fully
charge and the voltage should be greater than 12.8
volts. A typical load test should be 3 times the amp
hour for 15 seconds. At the end of 15 seconds the
voltage of the battery should stay above 9.6 volts. If the
battery cannot reach a fully charged voltage of 12.8 or
greater the batteries will need to be equalized.

NOTE

When checking the state of charge the battery

needs to have been disconnected from a charging

source and any loads for a minimum of four hours.

Battery Cleaning

Battery maintenance is an important issue. 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 the
battery top with a damp cloth and dry thoroughly.

To ensure maximum battery capacity on the charge
and discharge, the battery terminals and the inside
portion of the cable connector should be scraped
or brushed. The terminals should be tight and free
of corrosion. The battery should be cleaned using
a baking soda and water mix, with a ratio of two
tablespoons of baking soda to a pint of water. The
cable connection should be cleaned and tightened
regularly.

For battery service or replacement, go to a service
station or dealer who sells and services the make of
battery installed in your trailer.

NOTE

Reconnect the battery cables to the correct

battery posts.

Battery Storage

During the winter, the batteries should be removed
from the trailer and stored in a cool, dry place, where
there is no danger of freezing. They 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.

WARNING

Before removing the batteries verify that shoreline

power is not connected. Risk of electrical shock

may be present.

The following chart shows the approximate % of
charge SOC (State of charge) vs. OCV (Open circuit
voltage) and specic gravity for Interstate batteries.

The following recommendations may be helpful if the
battery is to be stored:

• When storing the battery in a vehicle or vessel, it is
not necessary to leave it on charge. Disconnect the
negative battery cable. This will prevent inadvertent
discharging of the battery which may lead to a
complete discharge.

• Fully charge the battery before putting it in storage
and store in a cool place.

• Charge the battery every 30 to 60 days to ensure
maximum battery life.

NOTE

A battery will self-discharge 1-3% per month at 80

degrees.

8-10 2020 Caravel

Maintenance

Water Pump

Water Pump Access Locations

The 16 ft. model has the pump and lter located under
the roadside dinette seat. Access is gained by lifting
the seat cushion to reveal the access panel.

The 19 ft. model has the water pump located under the
Stove. Access is gained removing the bottom drawer.

The 20 ft. model has the pump and lter located
under the microwave. The bottom panel below the
microwave is held on by pressure catches. Remove
this panel to get access to the water pump and

winterization kit�

The 22 ft. model has the water pump located under the
roadside wardrobe. Access is gained by removing the
felt covered lower wardrobe shelf. The winterization kit
is located under the galley. Remove bottom panel to
access.

Strainer Cleaning

Locate the water pump and housing cap. Turn housing
cap counterclockwise to remove cap and carefully pull
out strainer. Clean strainer in small bucket of clean
water or under running water. If necessary, clean
strainer in a detergent solution. Install strainer and
housing cap, being careful not to damage housing cap
seal.

Fresh Water Tanks and Draining

Drain Valves

Under the trailer are galvanized steel boxes that are a
few inches lower than the trailer frame. These boxes
are insulated exterior tank pans and they support the
freshwater and holding tanks. Petcocks open with a 1/4
turn. The 16RB Model has drain valves which are open
when the handle aligns with the water line.

Drain Valve Locations

The 16-ft. Rear Bed model has two drain valves
located under the roadside dinette seat. Remove the
cushions to access a removable panel in the dinette
seat top. There are also two drain valves on the fresh
water tank, behind the dump valve.

The 19-ft. Corner Bed valves are located in the rear
access compartment, through the rear access door.

The 20-ft. Front Bed model has two drain valves that
are located under the front dinette seat. Remove the
cushions to access a removable panel in the dinette
seat top. There are also two drains located in the
exterior rear access compartment

The 22-ft. Front Bed valves are located under the bed
on the roadside. Access is provided by an access
door cut in the bed top. Two other low point valves
are located under the wardrobe. Access is gained by
removing the felt covered lower wardrobe shelf.

Fresh Water Tank Draining

Pumping the water out with the self-contained water
pump can empty the fresh water tank. Simply turn on
the pump switch and open a couple of faucets until
the water will no longer drain out, or on all models use
the petcock-type drain valve located on the freshwater
tank pan described above. Be sure to watch closely
and turn the pump off when the tank runs dry. Pump
damage can occur if the pump runs dry for more than a
few minutes.

2020 Caravel 8-11

Maintenance

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 Heater Bypass Valve

1� Water Heater

2� Bypass Valve

If valve is in-line with water line, turn bypass valve
clockwise to close.

Water Heater Bypass Valve Locations

16-ft. Rear Bed model is under the roadside wardrobe
behind a removable panel.

19-ft. Corner Bed model is accessed through a
removable panel under the mattress on the bed top.

20-ft. Front Bed model is under the front dinette seat.
Remove bottom cushion and access panel.

22-ft. Front Bed model is accessed through a door
under the mattress on the roadside bed or through its
storage door.

Sanitizing

Potable water systems require periodic maintenance
to deliver a consistent ow 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 the proper amount of bleach into a container of

water�

3� Pour the correct amount of solution (water/bleach)

into the Fresh Water tank and ll with potable

water�

4� Open all faucets (hot and cold) allowing the water

to run until the distinct odor of chlorine is detected.

5� The standard solution must have 4 hours of contact

time to disinfect completely. Doubling the solution
concentration will allow for contact time of one (1)
hour.

6� When the contact time is completed, drain the tank.

Rell with potable water and ush the plumbing of
all sanitizing solution.

Black and Gray Water Tank Draining

To empty one or both tanks, attach the sewer hose by
pressing the bayonet tting 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 main dump valve handle as far as
it will go and wait until the tank is drained. Close the
dump valve and partially rell the tank with clean water
and repeat the process until clean. The main holding
tank must be ushed out until all paper and waste
material is removed. Now pull the auxiliary tank valve
handle to drain the gray water tank. When dumping,
the main holding tank should be dumped rst, then the
auxiliary holding tank. This will help to rinse out the
sewer line with auxiliary holding tank water. Replace
the bayonet ring cap prior to traveling.

Black Water Tank Dumping

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, all at once, through the main holding tank 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, ll 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.

8-12 2020 Caravel

Maintenance

Draining the tanks as described will protect them from
freezing during storage. When traveling in sub-freezing
temperatures, use a winterizing solution designed for
RV use. Follow the directions on the container.

16-ft. Model

3

2

1

4

1� Combination Wastewater/Sewage (Gray/Black)

Tank Valve

2� Light

3� Light Switch

4� Drain Cap (Drain Hose Hookup)

All Other Models

Black Water Tank Flush

The trailer has a water hose connector specically
for ushing the Black Water Tank. To use, hook up a
garden hose and turn it on. Within the tank, a head with
multiple holes will spray the interior surface of the tank.
Once the tank is about half full, turn the garden hose
off and ush the water from the tank using the dump
valve. The valve should be closed for the rst couple of
minutes, and then opened to let the water out in a rush.
Repeat as needed.

It is recommended the tank ush be used on a regular
basis or the holes on the spray head may become

clogged�

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 type of product will attack the rubber
seals of your toilet and dump valve. Also, do not use
any dish detergent or abrasive cleaners. All products
should be marked as approved for ABS drainage
systems.

1� Black Water (Main) Dump Valve

2� Light

3� Light Switch

4� Auxiliary Tank Dump Valve

5� Drain Cap

2020 Caravel 8-13

Maintenance

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,
ush 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 your trailer is to
guard against freeze damage to the fresh water system
lines, tank, and pump, the waste drain system including
the traps and tanks, the water heater, and the batteries.

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.

4� While the water is draining from the system, open

and ush the toilet-ushing valve. Depress hand
spray lever while holding the spray head down
inside the bowl. Depress hand spray thumb button
on the telephone shower head while holding down
inside the tub and drain all water from the exible
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� Disconnect outlet hose from water pump.

7� If your unit has a winterization kit installed, open

valve to the winterizing position and remove plug.
If your unit does not have this valve, disconnect
the water pump inlet connection. 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 allow any
remaining water to drain out.

9� After the water has stopped running from the drain

lines, apply 50 lb. 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, all drain valves, and faucets are open
and pump outlet hose is disconnected. This can
be done at a service station and will force any
remaining water from the water heater and remove
any water that may be trapped in low areas.

10� Pour a cup of non-toxic RV antifreeze that has

been approved and listed by a recognized testing
authority such as Underwriter Lab into the lavatory,
sink and tub drains to prevent trap freeze-up.

11� Be sure to open the waste-holding tank dump

valves and drain and ush the tanks thoroughly

(this is very important as the sewage in the tanks,
if frozen, could seriously damage the tanks)� Plan

ahead and have this done at a dump station.

12� 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�

13� Remove any items (food, cosmetics, etc.) from

trailer interior that might be damaged by freezing,
or that might damage the trailer if containers
should break.

CAUTION

Remove all RV antifreeze spillage from all drain

and faucet parts after winterizing. Failure to do so

could result in damage to the plumbing xture’s

nish.

8-14 2020 Caravel

Maintenance

An optional method for winterizing protection, is to
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. If you have the winterization kit installed,
just reconnect the outlet hose. Close all drain
valves.

2� Turn water heater bypass valve to bypass position.

Refer to Water Heater Bypass Valve illustration.

3� If you do not have the winterization kit, 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 lls 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 tting

and reconnect water system inlet line. If you have
the winterization kit, turn valve back into normal
use position and reinstall hose plug.

Main Door Care

• Main door has come open at some point introducing
a change to the contour of the door frame (check for
sheared rivets on interior skin of door).

* When using the stabilizers (for eliminating movement­not leveling) on your Airstream be sure to check the
t of your main door before and after extending the
stabilizers. The t of the main door can be affected if
the trailer is not level side to side and front to back.

Windows

Sticking Windows

Forcing the window open may cause the window
to shatter. Always follow the guidelines below for
releasing a stuck window.

1� Unlatch the window latches securing the windows

on the interior�

2� Apply some 303 Aerospace Protectant to a nylon

wedge window tool�

3� Starting in the corner, tuck the end of the nylon tool

under the glass and gently slide to opposite end.

4� Once the window is released, wash the gasket with

a mild soap and water solution, and dry.

5� Apply 303 Aerospace Protectant (Airstream part

# 44845WR-01) to the window gasket. To apply,
spray/pour 303 onto a soft rag or sponge and apply
a generous coating directly to the gasket. Remove
any residue that comes in contact with the exterior
aluminum skin. This may be ordered through the
Airstream Parts Department or at the Airstream
online store at www.airstream.com.

Lubrication

Apply a little parafn or grease to the striker pockets
and a slight amount of household oil to the lock
mechanisms to keep the locks operating smoothly.
Also, lubricate the hinge pins periodically with
household oil. Use the lubricant sparingly and remove
any excess from exterior skin immediately.

Prying up or applying pressure to the window may

cause the window to shatter, resulting in personal

injury or unit damage.

CAUTION

Adjustment

Main door adjustment can be affected by:

• The trailer being improperly leveled (causing twisting
of trailer body/shell).*

• Striker bolt alignment being out of adjustment,
(striker bolt is adjustable).

• Screen door being out of adjustment, resulting in a
situation of the door rubbing the frame, or not closing
ush (which will create pressure on the door).

2020 Caravel 8-15

Maintenance

Electrical Diagrams

12-Volt Main Schematic

22

22

8-16 2020 Caravel

Maintenance

120-Volt/30 Amp Diagrams

The following electrical diagrams are representative of the National Electric Code (NEC) and Canadian Standards
Association (CSA). All circuits are NEC with the exception of CSA circuits as specied in each respective table.

16RB Caravel (30 Amp)

Main Circuit, 30 Amp

Circuit 1, 20 Amp

A Air Conditioner 16.0 Amps

Circuit 2, 15 Amp

B Converter (Wired Direct) 8.0 Amps

C Inverter Receptacle 0.0 Amps

D Bedroom Receptacle 1.5 Amps

D Bedroom Receptacle -CSA 1.0 Amps

E Blu-Ray Player 1.0 Amps

E Blu-Ray Player - CSA 1.5 Amps

Circuit 3, 15 Amp

G Water Heater (Wired Direct) 12.0 Amps

Circuit 4, 15 Amp GCFI

F Microwave Receptacle 12.0 Amps

Circuit 5, 15 Amp (GFCI)

H Outside Receptacle 1.5 Amps

H Outside Receptacle - CSA 1.0 Amps

J Refrigerator Receptacle 2.7 Amps

K Galley Receptacle 1.5 Amps

K Galley Receptacle - CSA 1.0 Amps

L Dinette Receptacle 1.5 Amps

L Dinette Receptacle - CSA 1.0 Amps

DC to AC 1000W Inverter Rated at 8.5 Amp

Inverting

15 Amp Fuse for Overcurrent.

2020 Caravel 8-17

Maintenance

19CB Caravel (30 Amp)

Main Circuit, 30 Amp

Circuit 1, 20 Amp

A Air Conditioner 16.0 Amps

Circuit 2, 15 Amp

B Converter (Wired Internally) 8.0 Amps

Circuit 3, 15 Amp

C Microwave Receptacle 12.0 Amps

Circuit 4, 15 Amp

D Inverter Receptacle 0.0 Amps

E Refrigerator Receptacle 2.7 Amps

F Above Refrigerator Receptacle 1.5 Amps

F Above Refrigerator Receptacle -

CSA

G TV Receptacle 1.5 Amps

G TV Receptacle - CSA 1.0 Amps

H Blu-Ray Player Receptacle 1.5 Amps

H Blu-Ray Player Receptacle - CSA 1.0 Amps

1.0 Amps

Circuit 5, 15 Amp

Water Heater (Wired Direct) 12.0 Amps

Circuit 6, 15 Amp (GFCI)

J Bathroom Receptacle 1.5 Amps

J Bathroom Receptacle - CSA 1.0 Amps

K Galley Receptacle 1.5 Amps

K Galley Receptacle - CSA 1.0 Amps

L Dinette Receptacle 1.5 Amps

L Dinette Receptacle - CSA 1.0 Amps

M Outside Receptacle 1.5 Amps

M Outside Receptacle - CSA 1.0 Amps

DC to AC 1000W Inverter Rated at 8.5 Amp

Inverting

15 Amp Fuse for Overcurrent. Transfer Switch rated
at 15 Amp. UL 458 Tested. ULC

8-18 2020 Caravel

20FB Caravel (30 Amp)

Maintenance

Main Circuit, 30 Amp

Circuit 1, 20 Amp

A Air Conditioner 16.0 Amps

Circuit 2, 15 Amp

B Converter 8.0 Amps

Circuit 3, 20 Amp

C Microwave 12.0 Amps

Circuit 4, 15 Amp

D Refrigerator Receptacle 2.7 Amps

E Bedroom Receptacle 1.5 Amps

E Bedroom Receptacle - CSA 1.0 Amps

F Inverter Receptacle 0.0 Amps

G Blu-Ray Player Receptacle 1.5 Amps

G Blu-Ray Player Receptacle 1.0 Amps

H TV Receptacle 1.5 Amps

H TV Receptacle - CSA 1.0 Amps

Circuit 5, 15 Amp

Water Heater (Wired Direct) 12.0 Amps

Circuit 6, 15 Amp (GFCI)

J Dinette Receptacle 1.5 Amps

J Dinette Receptacle - CSA 1.0 Amps

K Bath Receptacle 1.5 Amps

K Bath Receptacle - CSA 1.0 Amps

L Galley Receptacle 1.5 Amps

L Galley Receptacle - CSA 1.0 Amps

M Outside Receptacle 1.5 Amps

M Outside Receptacle - CSA 1.0 Amps

DC to AC 1000W Inverter Rated at 8.5 Amp

Inverting

15 Amp Fuse for Overcurrent. Transfer Switch rated
at 15 Amp. UL 458 Tested. ULC

2020 Caravel 8-19

Maintenance

22FB Caravel (30 Amp)

Main Circuit, 30 Amp

Circuit 1, 20 Amp

A Air Conditioner 16.0 Amps

Circuit 2, 15 Amp

B Converter (Wired Direct) 8.0 Amps

Circuit 3, 15 Amp

C Microwave Receptacle 12.0 Amps

Circuit 4, 15 Amp

D Inverter Receptacle 0.0 Amps

E Bedroom Receptacle 1.5 Amps

E Bedroom Receptacle - CSA 1.0 Amps

F Dinette Receptacle 1.5 Amps

F Dinette Receptacle - CSA 1.0 Amps

G Blu-Ray Player 1.5 Amps

G Blu-Ray Player - CSA 1.0 Amps

H TV Receptacle 1.5 Amps

H TV Receptacle - CSA 1.0 Amps

Circuit 5, 15 Amp

J Water Heater (Wired Direct) 12.0 Amps

Circuit 6, 15 Amp GFCI

K Galley Receptacle 1.5 Amps

K Galley Receptacle 1.0 Amps

L Refrigerator Receptacle 2.7 Amps

M Outside Receptacle 1.5 Amps

M Outside Receptacle - CSA 1.0 Amps

DC to AC 1000W Inverter Rated at 8.5 Amp

Inverting

15 Amp Fuse for Overcurrent. Transfer Switch rated
at 15 Amp. UL 458 Tested. ULC

8-20 2020 Caravel

Standard 30 Amp Circuit Breaker Layout

NEUTRAL BUSS

8GA BARE

COPPER

GROUND BUSS

15

30 15 15

MAIN

15

20

CIR.#2

CIR.#1

CIR.#3

PLACE BREAKER

LABEL HERE

CIR.#4

GFCI

CIR.#5

Maintenance

15

TEST

CIR.#6

• Circuit 6 - 15 Amp - Galley, Outside, Bath, Bedroom,
Refrigerator Receptacles

• Circuit 5 - 15 Amp - Water Heater

• Circuit 4 - 15 Amp - Inverter, Dinette, TV, Blu-Ray

Receptacles

• Circuit 3 - 15 Amp - Microwave Receptacle

• Circuit 2 - 15 Amp - Converter

• Circuit 1 - 20 Amp - A/C

• Main - 30 Amp

Breaker label content may vary.

2020 Caravel 8-21

Maintenance

Solar Panel Wiring

For your convenience Airstreams has installed a 3 port
easy install box to the roof of the trailer, as well as, a
plug for a portable solar panel at the front of the trailer
near the battery box. The roof port now allows for easy
install of an aftermarket solar panel. Simply plug the
power cord from the solar panel into the 3 port box.

A Cat 5-patch cord for a solar panel display, if supplied
with the after market unit, runs from the battery buss
bar to an area just behind the Seelevel Monitor display.
The best way to reach the Cat 5 cable is to remove
the Seelevel Monitor. The solar panel display can be
mounted in the area near the Seelevel Monitor panel
by routing the proper hole size. The Cat 5 wire is then
plugged into the solar display panel.

NOTE

The yellow wire must be fused with a 10-amp in-line

fuse at the 12-volt positive. All wires are identied

with labels at all locations.

The solar panel has a charge controller that should be
mounted close to the battery buss bars, as the battery
leads and Cat 5 wire are hooked into it to sense the
actual battery charge.

The following diagram depicts the way Airstream wires
the solar system on factory-installed units and is the
recommended wiring for use of the pre-wire system.

8-22 2020 Caravel

Fresh Water Layout - 16RB Caravel

Maintenance

2020 Caravel 8-23

Maintenance

Fresh Water Layout - 19CB Caravel

8-24 2020 Caravel

Fresh Water Layout - 20FB Caravel

Maintenance

2020 Caravel 8-25

Maintenance

Fresh Water Layout - 22FB Caravel

8-26 2020 Caravel

Maintenance

FAQs and Answers

Electrical

1. What size of generator is needed to operate my
Airstream?

Answer: A 1000 watt generator may be used to charge
just the batteries. However, if wanting to run appliances
such as microwave or AC units, it is recommended
to have at least 4,000 watts or more* (This is for a 30
amp system).

* Many Airstreamers accomplish this using two portable
generators run in parallel.

2. What can I plug into the 1000 watt inverter
outlets in my Airstream?

Answer: These plugs are designed for no more than
1000 watts of power and are intended for charging
things such as laptops, phones, and TV usage.
Plugging in items such as vacuums, hairdryers, etc.
may harm the system.

3. I was told my Airstream is pre-wired for solar
panels. What does this mean?

Answer: Wiring has been installed throughout your unit
for the solar package Airstream is currently using. For
more information on solar packages, you may wish to
contact your Airstream dealer.

6. What is the battery disconnect switch function?

Answer: It is a switch that disengages or engages
the 12-volt power supply from the house batteries to
everything but the LPG detector. The switch is used to
cut power when the trailer is not being used or put into
storage to preserve battery charge.

7. My power jack is not operating.

Answer:

• Check for 12-volt power.

• Verify the 30 amp spade fuse, located inside the

battery box, is not blown. Replace if necessary.

• Loosen and retighten the jack head to establish a
ground to jack post.

The jack may be raised and lowered using the hand
crank provided, and by following the instructions in this
owner’s manual.

8. What does the power converter do in my

trailer?

Answer: The converter takes 120-volt AC shore power
and turns it into 12-volt DC to keep batteries charged
and power 12-volt items in your trailer.

4. What size batteries are in my Airstream?

Answer: Caravel models will have the Interstate SRM­24 batteries installed. (Optional GPL-24T)

5. Do you recommend using a surge protector
when plugged into shore power?

Answer: Your Airstream is breaker protected. However,
with the use of more personal electronic devices and
the number of RV users in parks, added protection is
always a plus.

2020 Caravel 8-27

Maintenance

Plumbing

1. While parked at my site do you recommend
leaving my dump valves open?

Answer: You cannot leave your black water valve open.
This would cause a buildup inside the tank. You need
to keep this closed until you are full or ready to leave.
(Remember, use your no-fuss ush.)

2. How do I use my black water tank ush?

Answer: First, empty your black water tank, then close
your black water tank valve. Hook up your hose to the
external hookup, run a couple minutes, and then open
the valve. Do this a couple times until clear.

3. Do I need a water regulator?

Answer: No, your Airstream is equipped with a built in
regulator rated for 50 psi.

4. How do I get fresh water into my trailer?

Answer: You can use the on board fresh water tank
and 12-volt pump for your water supply when boon
docking, or hook to an external water source via
garden hose to exterior water inlet when parked at a
campground.

5. What is the difference between a gray water
tank and the black tank?

Answer: The gray water tank holds water from shower
and sink drains. The black water tank holds sewer
water from the toilet.

Audio-Video

1. My TV reception is poor. What can I check?

Answer: Verify your antenna booster is set to proper
selection. (On- for antenna, and Off- for cable satellite).
You should also make sure connections are tight on
your TV.

2. How do I receive TV audio through my
overhead stereo speakers?

Answer: TV must be on. Locate the source button on
your radio/stereo. Press (Source/Off) repeatedly until
CD appears. Press the model/return button until CD2
appears. To adjust volume, use the volume knob of
your stereo receiver.

Appliances

1. I am planning for a trip in my Airstream. How
should I get the refrigerator cooled down?

Answer: Cooling time will vary with exterior
temperatures and time of day. Start by pre-cooling
your refrigerator at least 12 hours prior to loading your
refrigerator. Always pre-cool food in your refrigerator or
freezer to reduce cooling time. Don’t pack food too tight
in compartment as to prevent circulation around food
items. Normal refrigerator operating temperatures are

34ºF to 40ºF�

2. The heat pump in my trailer doesn’t seem to be
providing any heat, yesterday it worked great.

Answer: The heat pump is designed to knock the chill
off your trailer. It functions when outside temperature is
45ºF or greater by removing heat from the outside air.
Below 45ºF it will not provide heat.

3. My air conditioner freezes up. What is the
problem?

Answer: In high humidity conditions, the AC
manufacturer recommends you operate your AC
(manual mode) on the high fan setting and all vents
should be open to have maximum air ow over the
coils; this helps reduce icing. Also, dirty air conditioner
lters can restrict air ow and cause the AC to ice up.

8-28 2020 Caravel

Maintenance

Maintenance

1. Where can I nd my trailer serial number?

Answer: A label is attached on the roadside sheet at
the front side sheet seam. This label will also provide
the ination pressure of the tires and GVWR. The serial
number of the trailer is also stamped on the street side
of the A frame by the LPG tanks.

2. Awning suggestions:

Your Zip Dee awning is intended to provide shade.
Your awning can be used in light rain conditions if front
or rear is tilted to let water run off. Light winds should
not affect awning use. If you are leaving your trailer
for long periods or in threatening weather, the awning
should be retracted. Visit the Zip Dee website for more
information and instructional videos.

3. Cleaning the exterior of my Airstream.
Suggestions:

Airstream recommends washing the trailer using a
mild auto detergent safe for clear coated surfaces.
Airstream recommends washing based on operating
conditions and waxing a minimum of twice a year.
Walbernize Superseal is a product that was designed
specically for Airstream and provides good wax

protection�

4. Can I use a nylon cover for my Airstream?

Answer: Airstream does not recommend using any type
of cover. The installation and movement of the cover in
windy conditions could scratch the clearcoat.

7. What should I use to clean the aluminum on the
interior of my Airstream?

Answer: The interior aluminum is the same as the
exterior aluminum and has a clear coat nish and
could be cleaned the same way. For an easy, no mess
suggestion, we recommend using a product such as
lemon Pledge® for a quick way to remove nger prints
and smudges.

8. How do I clean my drapes and upholstery?

Answer: Drapes may be dry-cleaned. Upholstery may
be spot-cleaned. We recommend dry cleaning as the
best overall cleaning solution.

9. What is a rubber torsion axle?

Answer: Your trailer has Dexter rubber torsion axles,
this type axle has internal rubber cords that provide
load carrying capacity verses leaf spring type axles.
Reminder - never jack up trailer using rubber torsion
axle tubes!

10. My windows are sticking and don’t open easily;
what is wrong?

Answer: Your windows have rubber seals around the
edges which in extreme, heat and dusty conditions can
become sticky. You can help prevent this by regularly
cleaning window seals with soapy water and applying
a silicone product or Aerospace Protectant 303 to the
seals. Clean edge of glass also.

11. The mattress in my Airstream is an odd shape,
where can I buy sheets?

5. What type of attachments can I install on the
rear of my Airstream?

Answer: Airstream only recommends the installation of
a Fiamma bike rack (Airstream part number: 209397)
on the rear of trailers. No other type carriers are
recommended.

6. My main door is hard to open, is this normal?

Answer: Your main door is designed differently than
a at surface door. The door is over bent in order to
apply more pressure at the top and bottom of the door
for better sealing. Also, on uneven surfaces the trailer
can be in a slight twist that could affect closing. Make
sure the trailer is as level as possible.

2020 Caravel 8-29

Answer: Airstream has a selection of sheets for your
Airstream and can be purchased by calling (937) 596­6111 extension 7400 or 7418. You can also access our
website at www.airstream.com and click on store.

Maintenance

NOTES

2020 Caravel8-30

Index

A

Air Conditioner 5-11
Alarms 2-3
Antenna 5-10
Appliances 2-2, 5-11
Awning 6-4
Axle 6-5

B

Backing 7-7
Battery 8-10
Battery Disconnect Switch 5-7
Brakes 7-2, 8-9
Breakaway Switch 7-3, 8-9

Maintenance 8-9

C

Camping 3-6
Chemical Sensitivity 2-2
City Power 5-9
City Water Hookup 3-9, 5-5, 6-4
Cleaning

Exterior 6-2

Interior 5-3
Controlling Sway 7-7
Converter 5-7

D

Detectors 2-3
Door

Lubrication and Adjustment 8-15

Main 6-3

Screen 6-3
Draining System 5-5
Drain Valve Locations 8-11

E

Electrical 5-6
Emergency Escape Windows 6-3
Equalizing Hitch 7-5
Exhaust Fans 5-12
Extended Stay 3-7
Exterior Shower 6-4

F

FAQs and Answers 8-27
Faucets 5-6
Fire Extinguisher 2-6
Floor Plans 4-2
Formaldehyde 2-3
Front End Protection 6-3

Window Stone Guards 6-3
Wrap Protectors 6-3

Furnace 5-13

G

Gas Regulator 6-7

H

Hitch 6-5, 6-6

7-Way Plug 7-4

I

Interior Components, Operating 5-3
Inverter 5-7

J

Jack 6-6

Location 8-5
Maintenance 8-9

L

Leveling 3-8
Loading 7-3
LPG

Detector 2-5
Exterior LPG Port 6-8
Fill Valve 6-6
Gas Regulator 6-7
Safety , 6-9
Tanks 6-8

Lug Nut Torquing 2-2, 8-8

2020 Caravel Index-1

Index

M

Maintenance Schedule 8-2
Microwave Ovens 5-13
Mold 2-2, 3-9
Monitor Panel 5-14

N

Nev-R-Lube Bearings 6-6

Inspection 8-8

O

Operation of Interior Components 5-3
Overnight Stop 3-7

P

Plumbing 5-5
Power Head

Maintenance 8-9
Replace 8-9

Power Jack 6-6

R

Range 5-13
Roof Vent 5-12
Running Gear 6-5

S

Safety 2-2, 3-11,

Controlling Sway, Fishtailing 7-7

Stopping on a Hill 7-7
Service 3-5
Shoreline Power Supply 3-9
Solar System 5-15
Specications 4-3
Step 6-3

Operation 6-3

T

Tanks

Draining, Dumping, Cleaning 8-11
Thermostat 5-16
Tires 8-5, 8-7

Tire Size 4-4
Toilet 5-6
Towing 2-2
Tow Vehicle 7-2
Trailer

Weight 7-4
TV Antenna 5-10

V

Vent 5-12
Ventilation 2-2, 2-3

W

Warranty 3-2
Waste Water System 3-9

Tank Draining 8-12
Water Heater 5-16

Bypass Valve 8-12
Water Pump 5-5

Access Locations 8-11

Strainer Cleaning 8-11
Water System 5-5
Weighing Your Trailer 7-4
Weight Distribution 2-2
Wheels 6-2
Windows 6-2

Sticking Windows 8-15
Winterizing 8-14
Winter Traveling 3-11

REV# 02

2020 CaravelIndex-2

428 West Pike Street

P.O. Box 629

Jackson Center, OH. 45334-0629

Phone: [phone] Fax: [phone]

www.airstream.com