Airstream Classic 2003 Owner's Manual

2003 AIRSTREAM CLASSIC TRAILER OWNERS MANUAL

INTRODUCTION

The Owners Manual for your new Airstream trailer is designed to respond to the most frequent inquiries regarding the operation, function and care of the many systems that make modern trailering a joy.

Airstream realizes our customers possess varying degrees of expertise in the area of repairing and maintaining the appliances in their trailer. For this reason, the service and trouble-shooting information found in this manual is directed toward those with average mechanical skills. We also realize you may be more familiar in one area than you are in another. Only you know your capabilities and limitations.

We want you to use this manual, and hope you will find the information contained in it useful, however, should you ever feel you may be "getting in over your head" please see your dealer to have the repairs made.

A brief explanation of the operation of the appliances such as refrigerator, furnace, water heater and others are explained in this manual. However, you will also find the manufacturer's information supplied in a packet included with this manual more detailed.

All information, illustrations and specifications contained in the literature are based on the latest product information available at the time of publication approval.

Throughout this manual

Failure to observe

WARNING

Note: If and when new materials and production techniques are developed which can improve the quality of its product, or

material substitutions are necessary due to availability, Airstream reserves the right to make such changes.

The next page of this manual is a table of contents. Point your cursor to the subject, colored blue, you would like to research. Right click your mouse while it is on the subject title and you will be taken to that area of the manual.

To get back to table of contents, click on the back arrow in the tool bar at the top of the document. The arrow will be lighted.

The next two pages contain an index of subject material in alphabetical order.

CAUTION

notes the possibility of personal and/or fatal injury if not observed.

and

can damage equipment.

WARNING

©AIRSTREAM INC. 2002

notations are used.

2003 AIRSTREAM CLASSIC TRAILER OWNERS MANUAL

A. WARRANTY AND SERVICE

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

B. TOWING

Tow Vehicles Brakes Loading

Weighing Hitching Up Towing Tips Pre-Travel Check List

C. CAMPING

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

D. EXTERIOR

Cleaning Chassis

Power Jack Tires

Axle and Running Gear Electric Brakes

E. INTERIOR FURNISHINGS AND ACCESSORIES

Fabric Care Lounges & Tabl es Features & Fixtures Storage Areas Smoke Alarm Gas Detector Fire Extinguisher Exterior Windows Screens

F. PLUMBING

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

G. ELECTRICAL

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

F. APPLIANCES

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

I. SPECIFICATIONS

AIRSTREAM CLASSIC TRAILER OWNERS MANUAL

Accessories............................................B-13

Air Conditioner........................................H-1

Alignment................................................. I-2

Antennas..................................... G-31, G-35

Appliances...............................................H-1

Axles ...................................................D-8

Awning ...................................................D-2

Backing ..................................................B-1l

Battery ....................................E-3, G-2, I-2

Bath Exhaust..................................E-2, G-36

Bathroom.................................................E-2

Bearing ...................................................D-8

Beds ...................................................E-2

Black Tank Flush............................F-9, F-37

Bottles, LP............................................... F-2

Brake Controller............................B-9, D-10

Brakes .................................B-2, B-9, D-10

Breakaway Switch.........................B-2, D-10

Bulbs .................................A-8, E-4, G-32

Camping..................................................C-1

Carpet ...................................................E-2

Capacities .................................................I-1

Cargo ...........................................B-4, E-4

Caution .....................................Introduction

Chassis ...................................................D-3

Check List..............................................B-12

City Water Hook-Up..............C-5, F-8, F-37

Cleaning ..................................................D-1

Circuit Breakers.................. G-9, G-42, G-39

Coaxial Cable Wiring............................G-29

Condensation...........................................C-7

Converter...................................... G-3, G-42

Connector

7-Way ..........................................G-5, G-6

110-volt ..............................................G-42

Couch ...................................................E-2

Countertop...............................................E-2

Coupler ...................................................D-3

Curtains ...................................................E-2

Control Panel...................................E-3, G-2

Dimensions...............................................I-1

Dinette ...................................................E-3

Doors

Main ...................................................D-2

Screen..................................................D-2

Drain Valves......................................... F-28

Drainage ................................................F-37

Drapes ...................................................E-2

Dump Valves......................................... F-37

Electrical................................................. G-1

12 Volt................................................. G-1

110 Volt..................................... C-7, G-42

Circuit Breakers............... G-9, G-42, G-44

Diagrams

12 Volt...................................... G-7

110 Volt........................ G-42, G-44

120 Volt.................................. G-41

7-Way Cable..................... B-3, G-6

Power Cord................................ C-5, G-42

Trouble Shooting............................... G-11

Escape Window...............C-1, C-5, D-2, E-9

Exhaust Fans......................................... G-36

Extended Stay..........................................C-4

Exterior Maintenance ............................. D-1

Factory Service....................................... A-5

Fans .................................E-4, G-36, H-7

Faucets .................................. F-6, F-8, F-10

Fill Valves ...............................................F-1

Filter, Water...........................................F-10

Fire Extinguisher .....................................E-9

Flat Tire .......................................... C-4, D-5

Furnace ...........................................E-4, H-2

Fuses .................................................. A-8

Galley ...................................................E-2

Gas, LP ...................................................C-7

Gas Regulator..........................................F-2

Grey Tank (Aux) ............................ F-37, I-1

Ground Fault Interrupter....................... G-44

Grounding............................................. G-39

GVWR ...................................................B-4

GAWR ...................................................B-5

Hitch ............................................B-6, I-2

Hitching Up.............................................B-6

Hitch Weight ...........................................B-5

Holding Tanks.......................................F-31

Hitch Ball Height......................B-7, D-3, I-2

Humidity.................................................. C-7

Interior ...................................................E-1

Jacks ...................................................C-4

Stabilizing.....................................C-2, C-4

Tire Changing.............................. C-4, D-5

AIRSTREAM CLASSIC TRAILER OWNERS MANUAL

Lavatory ..................................................E-2

Length, Trailer.......................................... I-1

Leveling ...................................................C-4

Lights .........................................E-4, G-32

Loading ........................................... B-4, E-4

Lounge ...................................................E-2

LP Bottles................................................ F-2

LP Gas ....................................C-7, E-8, F-1

LP Gas Detector ......................................E-8

Maintenance Parts ...................................A-8

Maintenance Record................................ A-9

Maintenance Schedule............................. A-6

Microwave...............................................H-4

Monitor Panel...............E-3, F-6, F-37, G-37

Oven ...................................................H-3

Overnight Stop ........................................C-2

Parking ...................................................C-2

Passing .................................................B-10

Plumbing .................................................F-1

Power Cord....................................C-5, G-42

Power Jack...............................................D-3

Range ...................................................H-3

Refrigerator .............................................H-5

Regulator, LP...........................................F-2

Roof Vents.......................................E-4, H-7

Rotation, Tire...........................................D-7

Safety ................... A-5, C-1, E-9, F-4, H-6

Safety Chains...........................................B-8

Sanitizing................................................. F-7

Screens ...........................................D-2, E-9

Service ...................................................A-5

7-Way Conn ........................... B-3, G-5, G-6

Sewer Hose............................................ F-36

Shower ...................................................E-2

Sink ...................................................E-2

Slide-out Room........................................C-2

Smoke Alarm...........................................E-5

Sofa ...................................................E-2

Solar Panel.............................................G-35

Specifications ...........................................I-1

Stabilizing................................................C-4

Step ...................................................D-2

Storage ......................................... E-4, F-29

Stove ...................................................H-3

Suspension...............................................D-8

Table ...................................................E-3

Tires ............................................D-5, I-2

Tongue Latch.......................................... D-3

Tongue Weight ........................................B-5

Toilet .................................................F-45

Towing ...........................................B-1, B-9

Tow Car ...........................................B-1, B-7

TV ...................................................C-5

TV Antenna.......................................... G-31

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

Valves, Drain.........................................F-28

Ventline Instructions............................. G-35

Vents ...........................................E-4, H-7

Warning .....................................Introduction

Warranty.................................................A- I

Washing .................................................. D-1

Waste System ........................................F-31

Water System...........................................F-6

Drainage..................................F-36

Filter........................................F-10

Heater......................E-4, F-28, H-6

Inlet Connection......................F-29

Pump ..........................E-3, F-6, F-8

Strainer......................................F-6

Tank...........................F-6, F-28, I-1

Valves .................................................F-28

Waxing .................................................. D-1

Weight ...................................................B-4

Weight Distribution.................................B-6

Wheel

Torque.................................................. D-5

Alignment......................................D-8, I-2

Bearing ................................................ D-8

Windows..........................................D-2, E-9

Winter Traveling......................................C-7

Winterizing............................................F-29

Wiring ...................................See Electrical

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

AIRSTREAM CLASSIC TRAILER OWNERS MANUAL

WARRANTY COVERAGE

When you buy a new Airstream Travel Trailer from an authorized Airstream dealer, Airstream, Inc., warrants the trailer from defects in material and workmanship as follows:

BASIC WARRANTY PERIOD

This warranty extends for a period of two years from the date of original retail purchase.

ITEMS COVERED

Any part of the trailer or any component equipment installed by the factory is covered by the basic warranty except the following items, which are not covered:

• Tires

• Batteries

The tire and battery warranties will be handled by their respective service points and according to their written policy. This limited warranty does not include failure caused by accident, abuse, normal wear, overload, or any cause not attributable to a defect in original material or workmanship of the trailer or component equipment as installed by the factory.

LIMITATION OF IMPLIED WARRANTIES

All warranties of merchantability and fitness for a particular purpose, whether written or oral, expressed or implied, shall extend only for a period of two years from the date of original purchase. There are no other warranties, which extend beyond those described on the face hereof and which expressly excludes conditions resulting from normal wear, accident, abuse, exposure or overload. Some states do not allow limitation on how long an implied warranty lasts, so the above limitations may not ap ply to you.

AIRSTREAM'S RESPONSIBILITY

The basic Airstream Limited Warranty applies for a period of two years from the date of original purchase, and the application date of all warranties is that indicated on the owner's identification card. Defects in items covered under this Warranty will be corrected without cost upon the return, at the owner's expense, of the trailer or defective part to an authorized Airstream dealer.

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CARE AND MAINTENANCE

This warranty covers only defective material and/or workmanship; adjustments are made at the factory prior to shipment, and rechecked by the dealer prior to delivery to the customer. Adjustments thereafter become a customer responsibility.

Each Airstream exterior (not including the underside) is clear coated to prevent oxidation. This application is covered by a two-year warranty against peeling. Prolonged exposure to salt air or industrial fall-out will permit penetr ation through the coating material, causing damage to the exterior finish. Since Airstream, Inc., has no control over these conditions, it is necessary for the owner to wash and maintain their trailer as instructed in the Owner's Manual.

The owner is also responsible for following all recommendations, instructions and precautions contained in the Airstream Trailer Owner's Manual and the individual manuals furnished by the chassis, appliance and other manufacturers.

INSTALLATIONS NOT COVERED

Airstream, Inc., does not accept any responsibility in connection with any of its trailers for additional equipment or accessories installed at any dealership or other place of business, or by any other party. Such installation of equipment or accessories by any other party will not be covered by the terms of this warranty.

IF REPAIRS ARE NEEDED

If your trailer needs repairs under the terms of the basic Airstream Limited Warranty, you should:

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

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

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

AIRSTREAM, INC.

419 W. Pike Street - P.O. Box 629

Jackson Center, Ohio 45334-0629

Attention: Owner Relations Department

Furnish the following information:

• The complete serial number of the trailer

• Mileage

• Date of original purchase

• Selling dealer

• Nature of service problem and steps or service, which have been performed. (The owner

may be directed to another dealer at the owner's expense.)

4. If, after taking the above steps, repairs are still not complete, the Airstream owner may request the

trailer be brought to the Factory Service Center at the owner's expense.

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DEALER REPRESENTATION EXCLUDED

The full extent of the basic Airstream Limited Warranty is set forth in detail in the folder, and in the explanation of the basic Airstream Limited Warranty covered in the Airstream Trailer Owner's Manual. Airstream Inc. will not be responsible for additional representations or implied warranties made by any of its dealers to the extent those representations are not a part of, or are contrary to, the terms and conditions of the basic Airstream Limited Warranty.

CONSEQUENTIAL AND INCIDENTAL DAMAGES

Airstream, Inc., will not be responsible for any consequential or incidental expenses or damages resulting from a defect. Incidental expenses include, but are not limited to: travel expenses, ga so line, oil, lodging, meals, telephone tolls, and loss of w ork and loss of use of the trailer. Some examples of consequential damages would be: stained curtains due to rain leaks or delaminated floor caused by a plumbing leak. Some states do not allow the exclusion or lim itation of incidental or consequential

damages, so the above limitation or exclusion may not apply to you.

WARRANTY TRANSFER

The basic Airstream Limited Warranty is transferable to subsequent owners for the duration of the warranty period. Warranty transfer application forms are available from your dealer or the Airstream Inc. Service Administration Department.

CHANGES IN DESIGN

Airstream Inc. reserves the right to make changes in design and improvements upon its product without imposing my obligation upon itself to install the same upon its products theretofore manufactured.

This warranty gives you specific legal rights, and you may also have other rights, which vary from state to state.

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EXPLANATION OF AIRSTREAM LIMITED WARRANTY

The Airstream Limited Warranty is detailed in a separate folder. A plastic WARRANTY IDENTIFICATION CARD is sent to you after Airstream receives notification from your dealer of the sale. Since this I.D. card is necessary to obtain warranty, it should be kept in the trailer or on your person during the warranty period.

EXCLUSIONS:

Normal Wear

Items such as tires, water purifier packs, curtains, upholstery, floor coverings, window, door and vent seals will show wear or may even wear out within the two year warranty period depending upon the amount of usage, weather, and atmospheric conditions.

Accident

We strongly urge our dealers and customers to inspect the trailer upon receipt of delivery for any damage caused by accident while being delivered to the dealer, or while it is on the dealer's lot. Damage of this nature becomes the dealer or customer's responsibility upon acceptance of delivery, unless Airstream is notified and the person making the delivery verifies the damage. Glass breakage, whether obviously struck or mysterious, is always accidental and covered by most insurance policies.

Abuse

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

Exposure

Not unlike a car, the steel parts of a trailer can and will rust if subjected to prolonged exposure to moisture, salt air, or corrosive air-borne pollutants without repainting. Aluminum oxidizes when unprotected under similar conditions, and refinery chemicals of a sulfurous nature are harmful to finishes if not washed off periodically. Extremely hot or direct sunlight will deteriorate rubber and fade curtains and upholstery. Conditions of this nature, a lthough they may be normal for the area, are beyond Airstream's control and become the responsibility of the owner.

Although it is our obligation to c orrect a rain or plumbing leak within t he terms of the limited warr anty, it is the owner's responsibility to use reasonable, prudent care to minimize foreseeable secondary damage, such as a delaminated floor, stained upholstery, carpeting, drapes etc.

Overload

Damage due to loading, either beyond capacity or to cause improper towing because of improper balance, is beyond Airstream's responsibility. The Airstream trailer is engineered to properly handle the gross vehicle load rating on the certification label. Load distribution has a definite effect upon the towing characteristics and attitudes of the trailer. Level hitch installations are a necessity, and very important on a tandem axle trailer. There are limits to the amount of load that can be safely transported depending upon speed and road conditions, and reasonable cause to believe these factors have been exceeded could void the Airstream warranty. For additional information on the loading of your trailer, consult your Owner's Manual or gross vehicl e weight rating plate.

The Airstream axle is manufactured to a tolerance of 1-degree camber and 1/8" toe-in. These tolerances will only change if the trailer is subjected to abuse, such as dropping off a sharp berm, striking a curb, or hitting a deep hole in the road. Such damage could be considered as resulting from an accident which risks are not covered under the warranty. Abnormal tire wear and/or wheel alignment resulting from such damage is not covered under the terms of the warranty.

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AIRSTREAM CLASSIC TRAILER OWNERS MANUAL

SERVICE:

The Airstream Silver Key Delivery Program is an exclusive Airstream program. Before leaving the factory, each and every vital part of the trailer is tested for performance. Each test is signed and certified by an inspector. After the trailer arrives on your dealer's lot all of these vital parts and systems are again tested. When you take delivery of your new trailer you will receive a complete check out.

Silver Key Delivery does not stop here. At that time a specified list of performance checks on your trailer equipment will be conducted and any deficiencies you have experienced since taking delivery will be corrected.

Please contact your dealer if you need service. Major service under your Airstream Limited Warranty is available thr ough our nationwide ne twork of Airstream Dealer Service Centers. An up-to-date list of Dealer Service Centers has been provided with your new trailer. This list is current as of the date of this publication.

Occasionally dealerships change, or new dealers are added who may not appear on this list. For this reason, it is suggested that you contact your local dealer from time to time and br i ng your list up to da te. He can also provide you with additional copies if you need them. ALL CENTERS OPERATE ON AN APPOINTMENT BASIS FOR THE UTMOST EFFICI ENCY.

When you require service from the Airstream Factory Service Center, or a Certified Dealer Service Center, please contact the service manager for an appointment, and kindly inform him if you are unable to keep the appointment date or wish to change it.

Service may be arranged at the Factory Service Center by contacting the Service Coordinator at

REPORTING SAFETY DEFECTS

If you believe that your vehicle has a defect, which could cause a crash or could cause injury or death, you should immediately inform the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) in addition to notifying Airstream, Inc.

If NHTSA receives similar complaints, it may open an investigation, and if it finds that a safety defect exists in a group of vehicles, it may order a recall and remedy campaign. However, NHTSA cannot become involved in individual problems between you, your dealer, or Airstream, Inc.

To contact NHTSA you may either call the Auto Safety Hotline toll-free at 1-800-424-9393 (or 366-0123 in Washington, D.C. area) or write to: NHTSA, U.S. Department of Transportation, Washington, D.C.

20590. You can also obtain other information about motor vehicle safety from the Hotline.

Airstream Factory Service Center P.O. Box 629

419 W. Pike Street

Jackson Center, Ohio 45334-0629

937-596-6111

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AIRSTREAM CLASSIC TRAILER OWNERS MANUAL

MAINTENANCE SCHEDULE

WARNING

AND UNEXPECTED PARTS BREAKAGE AND/OR ERRATIC OPERATION THAT MAY BE HAZARDOUS.

Note: See appliance manufacturer's literature for further information

EVERY 1,000 MILES OR 60 DAYS

Escape Window Check operation of latches and upper hinge.

*Battery Check water level

Smoke Alarm Test and replace battery as required

Tires Check tire pressure (See Specifications)),

Hitch Check for loos e bolts or unusua l wear.

GFI Circuit Breaker Test and record.

WARNING

miles and 1,000 miles. Torque 85 ft. lbs.

EVERY 5,000 MILES OR 90 DAYS

Exterior Door locks Lubricate with dry graphite

Exterior Hinges Lubricate with light household oil

LPG Hold Down Lubricate with light household oil

LPG Regulator Check bottom vent for obstruct ions

Main Door Striker Pocket Coat with paraffin.

Wheel Lug Bolts Torque to 85 ft. lbs.

Break Away Switch Pull pin and lubricate with household oil

7-Way Plug Spray with contact cleaner.

Hitch Ball Latch Lubricate with non-detergent motor oil

Hitch Ball Lubricate with hitch ball lube or wheel bearing grease.

Range Exhaust Hood Clean fan blades and wash filter.

Roof Vent Elevator Screws Lubricate with light household oil

Main Door Step Lubricate moving parts and check.

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

: FAILURE TO MAINTAIN YOUR COACH CAN CAUSE PREMATURE

: On new trailers or whenever a wheel is removed, check lug bolts at 200

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AIRSTREAM CLASSIC TRAILER OWNERS MANUAL

EVERY 10, 000 MILES OR 6 MONTHS

Brakes Inspect, adjust or replace as necessary

Wheel Bearings Clean and repack

Tires Inspect and rotate

Spare Tire Carrier Lubricate moving parts.

Seals, Windows & Door Clean with mild detergent and coat with "Slipicone".

TV Antenna Lubricate all moving parts with silicone lubricant.

Exterior Wax

Escape Window Lubricate latches with WD-40.

EVERY YEAR

Battery Clean, neutralize and coat terminals with petroleum jelly.

A-Frame, Step Wire brush and paint frame at front and rear.

LP Bottles Have purged by LP supplier.

Seams Check and reseal exterior seams, windows, lights and vents if

necessary. Use Ten X or equival ent.

Hitch Coupler and Ball Check for wear or damage. Assure all parts operate freely.

Replace any component if worn or damaged.

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AIRSTREAM CLASSIC TRAILER OWNERS MANUAL

SUGGESTED MAINTENANCE PARTS AND LUBRICANTS

BULBS, EXTERIOR

Taillight #2057 Back Up #1156 License Plate # 53, wedge base # Clearance Light 194, wedge base Door Light #1003 Convenience Light (Dump Valve) # 53, wedge base Convenience Light (Hitch) # 193, wedge base

BULBS, INTERIOR

Ceiling Light (Incandescent) #1141 Ceiling Light (Fluorescent) #Fl4T8-CW #F8T5-CW Ceiling Light (Small Fluorescent, Thin Lite) #F8T5-CW Indirect, Dining & Bedroom (Fluorescent) #Fl8T8-CW & F15T8-CW Wardrobe Light & Dinette Light #561 Wall Light #1076

Reading Light #JC-10, wedge base

FUSES

Entertainment Center ATC 15 Amp

Battery Cable Fuses (Canadian approved trailers only) SLC 50 Amp

MISCELLANEOUS

Water Hose Gaskets Wheel Bearing Grease

Extra Hair Pin Clips for Hitch Grease Seals

Dry Graphite WD-40 or Equivalent Aerosol Lubricant

Oil Can with 30 Weight Non-Detergent Oil Silicone Lubricant

Light Household Type Oil Spray Contact Cleaner

Hitch Ball Lube (May use wheel bearing grease.) Sealer - Ten X

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AIRSTREAM CLASSIC TRAILER OWNERS MANUAL

MAINTENANCE RECORD

DATE

DEALER

SERVICE PERFORMED

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NOTES

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AIRSTREAM CLASSIC TRAILER OWNERS MANUAL

TOWING YOUR AIRSTREAM

TOW CAR EQUIPMENT

If you plan to buy a new vehicl e to tow your trailer we suggest that you include in your purchase the towing options offered by most automobile manufacturers. These include such things a heavy-duty alternator and radiator, heavy-duty springs (See Note:) and shock absorbers, transmission cooler, heavy-duty fan and flasher unit and others, depending upon the make of the vehicle.

Transmissions may be manual or automatic, but an automatic transmission may prolong your car’s life and generally does a better job of controlling engine loads than the average driver using a manual shift.

Having adequate power is very important when considering the purchase of a ne w vehic le or the trai ler towing capability of your present one. American manufacturers realize more than 30% of the vehicles they sell will be used for towing some type of trailer. The dealers are provided with guidelines to use when helping a customer decide on a tow vehicle. The guidelines are not just determined by the power output of the engine. The gear ratio of the differential is also a very part of the guideline.

Inspect vehicle's hitch regularly for loose bolts or nuts, cracked welds, loose ball mounts, worn parts, etc.

New trailerists often carry more food and other supplies than really needed. Remember that every item you take along is one more thing to stow and adds weight to the total load you must pull. Consolidate items in shelves, lockers, and in the refrigerator. It is better to have one full and one empty locker, than two half empty ones. Special care must be taken not to overload the front and rear ends of the trailer.

NOTE: Be realistic when ordering heavy duty springs. Only springs heavy enough to support your loaded vehicle (not including trailer) are necessary. Too harsh of spring rate will only shorten the life of the tow vehicle and trailer, and will make your journeys less enjoyable.

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AIRSTREAM CLASSIC TRAILER OWNERS MANUAL

ELECTRIC BRAKES

The brakes are operated by 12 volt current from your tow vehicle and MUST BE HOOKED UP SO THAT YOU HAVE AN INTEGRAL SYSTEM WITH YOUR TOW VEHICLE BRAKES. To prevent problems and insure satisfactory braking action, install an electronic controller in line with the brakes in your tow vehicle.

An electronic controller installed in your tow vehicle will synchronize the trailer brakes with your tow vehicle brakes. It is designed to apply the trailer brakes with your tow vehicle brakes.

Your brake controller should be adjusted to provide for a slight lead of the trailer brakes over the tow vehicle brakes. Follow the directions provided with your controller and keep the information for future reference. Don't be afraid to ask questions! If you don't understand the directions, have the installer explain the procedures.

Due to normal brake lining wear, the brakes and the controller setting should be checked and readjusted, if necessary, during the trailer manufacturer's recommended inspection intervals.

Note: Brake lining adjustment should be periodically checked (fully) to be sure trailer brakes are in the same adjustment as the tow vehicles.

Properly set these adjustments will provide for safe comfortable stops. They will also help assure optimum brake and tire life for both the tow vehicle and the trailer.

In THE EVENT OF AN ACCIDENTAL SEPARATION of the tow vehicle and the trailer, the BREAKAWAY SWITCH will set and lock the trailer brakes for a sufficient length of time to stop the trailer. The switch is activated when the wire attached to it and to the tow vehicle pulls out the small pin in the front of the unit. THIS PIN SHOULD BE PULLED OUT, LUBRICATED WITH LIGHT HOUSEHOLD OIL, AND REPLACED EVERY 90 DAYS.

To prevent corrosion within the breakaway switch, pull the switch's pin straight forward and spray the inside of the switch through the hole with an electr ic contact cle aner (such as Spra- Kleen) and re i nsert pin. A drop of light household oil on the groove near the base of the pin will allow the pin to operate freely. WHEN THE TRAILER IS CONNECTED TO THE TOW VEHICLE, THE BREAKAWAY SWITCH LOOP SHOULD BE ATTACHED TO THE PERMANENT FRAME OF YOUR HITCH. When disconnecting the trailer from the tow vehicle remove wire loop from the frame. DO NOT REMOVE PIN FROM SWITCH BECAUSE THIS WILL APPLY THE TRAILER BRAKES.

CAUTION

: Do not use breakaway switch for parking brake.

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Below is a sample of the weight information chart provided in all Airstream vehicles. This information can be found in your vehicle on the back of the first wardrobe door on the curbside of the vehicle about 60" up from the floor.

See specification section in this manual for definition and weight pertaining to this label.

When loading heavy objects such as tools, skillets, irons, and boxes of canned goods, etc. keep them as low as possible - preferably on the floor. Try to hold additional weight behind the axle to a minimum.

WARNING

the back of the trailer. Weight behind the axle will tend to magnify any sway that may occur when passing trucks or in gusty wind. If a heavy generator is mounted on the rear bumper what may have been an almost unnoticeable sway turns into a severe sway you may not he able to control.

CAUTION

abuse, and is not covered by warranty.

WEIGHING YOUR TRAILER The diagram below shows how to weigh the trailer on scales

: Damage to your trailer caused by mounting heavy objects on the rear is considered

: Never add items such as generators, heavy toolboxes or motorcycle racks to

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AIRSTREAM CLASSIC TRAILER OWNERS MANUAL

The allowable personal cargo must be distributed in your trailer in such a manner that the Gross Axle Weight Rating is not exceeded.

To determine this it is necessary to load all of your allowable personal cargo and variable weights. Then hitch the trailer to the tow vehicle with load equalizing hitch properly adjusted as shown on the following pages.

Place the trailer on a scale with both axles only on the scale (see 2). If the weight on the axles exceeds the axle system G.A.W.R. then some of the personal cargo must be redistributed forward in order to place some of this weight on the tongue.

The tongue weight should be in between 10% - 15% of the trailer's total weight, but must not exceed 1,000 lbs. Some tow vehicle manufact urers may restrict the amount of tongue load to a lower value. T o determine tongue load, unhitch tow vehicle and place the tongue hitch post on a scale. The tr ailer must be properly loaded as determined above, with your allowable personal cargo and variable weights.

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

Place a piece of wood of approximately the same thickness as the bathroom scales on the ground in line with the trailer hitch jack as shown. It should be so spaced that a short piece of pipe or other round piece will lay exactly one foot from the centerline of the jack extension. Place the scales so that another round piece can be exactly two feet from the centerline of the jack extension in the other direction. Place a 4 x 4 on the two round pieces and screw the jack extension down on the top of the 4 x 4 until the tongue of the trailer is supported by it. Multiply the scale reading by three. This will be the tongue weight of your tra iler. If you exceed the capacity of the bathroom scales, increase the two-foot dimension to three or four more feet, but always multiply the scale reading by the total number of feet between the wood and scales.

CAUTION

: Be sure trailer is level when you read scales.

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AIRSTREAM CLASSIC TRAILER OWNERS MANUAL

HITCHING UP

Hitching up your trailer is something that will become almost second nature with practice. The following section includes proper hitch load distribution and a proc edure for hitching up.

Equalizing Hitch Load Distribution

When a trailer is hitched up properly to a tow vehicle with a load equalizing hitch, approximately 1/3 of the trailer's tongue weight will be on the trailer's axles and 2/3 will be transferred to the tow vehicle, 1/3 of this weight transfer will be carried by the front wheels and 1/3 by the rear wheels of the tow vehicle (See diagram), Thus, the tire load of each wheel on the tow vehicle will be increased by 1/6 of the trailer's tongue weight. The tire air pressure of the tow vehicle should be increased to compensate for this additional weight. Refer to the vehicle's owner’s manual for this information.

WARNING

he approximately 10% to 14% of the trailer's total weight. Under no condition should it exceed the hitch rating provide your hitch rating information to you.

Sway Control Device

Although Airstream has not intruded into the hitch manufacturers field of expertise and preformed formal testing, we find the vast majority of Airstream owners purchases sway-control devices.

When passed by large trucks or when exposed to sudden crosswinds the trailer will be "pushed" and this action will be felt in the tow vehicle. It's our understanding the sway control devices will reduce the amount of movement and make towing more comfortable and add some safety.

Follow the directions of the sway control manufacturer when having it installed and using it.

Steps for Hitching Up

Jack up the trailer hitch until there is clearance for the HITCH BALL to slide under. Remove the safety pin, slide the locking lever forward and raise. Back the tow vehicle straight back to the hitch. (See Fig. 2). This can best be accomplished through the use of prearranged hand signals with the help of another person; but if you are hitching up by yourself we recommend the use of a HOOK-UP VIEW MIRROR.

Lower the trailer hitch onto the hitch ball. Then close the locking lever and insert safety pin. (See Fig. 3)

Now raise the trailer and tow vehicle to the full height of the hitch jack (See Fig. 7) and then attach the LEVELING BARS. (See Fig. 4, 5 & 6). Lower the tow vehicle and trailer (See Fig. 7).

: The tongue weight should

. Your hitch installer should

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AIRSTREAM CLASSIC TRAILER OWNERS MANUAL

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

A low hitch ball increases tail wagging tendencies by lowering the nose of the trailer, thus changing the center of support for the trailer and reducing the weight on the four wheels of the tow vehicle. With proper hitch installation and hitching up, the bar should have a noticeable amount of the deflecti on or bendi ng. "See figure 8". A little practice with your rig will teach you how far to pull the bar; you may wish to mark the chain links that match your rig.

Always choose level ground for checking correct hookup.

Note: If you're tow vehicle is equipped with adjustable load leveling ai r shocks, you must load the tow vehicle first with typical luggage and passengers and bring it back to level. Then attach the trailer and adjust the load leveling bars. Otherwise the air shocks on the tow vehicle will overload the rear wheels. Do not use air shocks to level tow vehicle and trailer after hit c hing up.

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AIRSTREAM CLASSIC TRAILER OWNERS MANUAL

Note: Leveling the trailer end to end, then measuring from the ground to the top of the ball socket determines Coupler height on the trailer.

Attach the safety chains (see figure 10) to the welded portion of the hitch or tow vehicle's frame, but never to the removable ball mount. Cross the safety chains under the hitch.

Caution

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

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

Fig 12

; retract the hitch jack completely for maximum

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AIRSTREAM CLASSIC TRAILER OWNERS MANUAL

TOWING TIPS

We want every owner to be a safe and courteous driver. A few hours of towing practice in a large empty supermarket lot will make pulling your trailer over the road much easier. Line out two corners for left and right turns. You may also use these corners to practice backing and parking.

OBSERVE THAT THE TRACKS MADE BY THE TRAILER WHEELS ARE DISTINCTLY DIFFERENT FROM THOSE MADE BY THE TOW VEHICLE. Studying this will make it easier for you to correct mistakes. Truck or trailer type fender or door grip rear view mirrors are a must for maximum visibility and in most states the law requires them.

After thoroughly inspe cting your hitch, br akes, and tire s you should be ready to tow. Check traffic , signal that you are about to pull away, and start slowly. Look often in your mirrors, and observe the action of the trailer, then carefully move into the proper lane of traffic. Remember that the trailer wheels will not follow the path of the tow vehicle wheels; therefore, WIDER TURNS ARE NECESSARY WHEN TURNING TO THE LEFT OR TO THE RIGHT.

ON FREEWAYS OR EXPRESSWAYS try to pick the lane you want and stay in it. Always maintain plenty of space between you and the car ahead, at least the length of the tow vehicle plus trailer for every ten miles per hour. Remember that in order to pass another vehicle you will need longer to accelerate. You must also allow for the length of the trailer when returning to the right hand lane.

Tracking

On a two-lane road cars will be lining up behind you because you travel at a lower speed. It is both courteous and sensible to signal, pull onto the shoulder, and let them pass. Your trailer is designed to be towed easily at any legal speed, so if you are not careful you may be inclined to forget it is there.

The BRAKE CONTROLLER is activated when you apply the brakes of the tow vehicle. Your tow vehicle brakes will automatically apply the trailer brakes first when properly adjusted. This will help keep your tow vehicle and trailer in a straight line and make you stop as if you were driving the tow vehicle alone. If swaying or swerving should occur, briefly operating the controller separate from the vehicle brakes may help correct the situation. Practice this maneuver on a clear highway. Don't wait for an emergency then grope for the controller.

When trailering you might encounter a temporary cooling system overload during severe conditions such as hot days when pulling on a long grade, when slowing do wn after higher speed driving, or driving long idle periods in traffic jams. If the hot indicator light comes on, or the temperature gauge indicates overheating and you have your air conditioner turned on, turn it off. Pull over in a safe place and put on your emergency brake. Don't turn off the engine. Increase the engine idle speed. Lift the engine hood and check for fluid leaks at the radiator overflow outlet. Check to see that all drive belts are intact and the fan is turning. If you have a problem have it fixed at the next opportunity. If there is no problem the light should go off or temperature should come down within one minute. Proceed on the highway a little slower. Ten minutes later resume normal driving.

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Passing

WARNING

level when the vehicle is cool.

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

WARNING

cause the rear wheels of the tow vehicle to skid. On icy pavement drive slowly and if you feel the tow vehicle skidding gently apply the trailer brakes only. This will bring the tow vehicle and trailer back into a single line. Chains do not help trailer wheels.

When driving in mud and sand let the momentum carry the rig through. Apply power gently and use as little as possible. Stay in the tracks of the vehicle ahead and keep the tow vehicle in the highest possible gear. If you get stuck it is best to to w out the entire rig together wit ho ut unhit c hing.

Despite the best hitch you will notice that whenever a large bus or truck overtakes your rig the displaced air first pushes the trailer rear slightly to the right and then affects the front. It may be necessary to steer very slightly, momentarily, toward the bus or truck to help compensate for the sway induced by the passingvehicle. Do not apply the vehicle brakes, as this can tend to exaggerate the situation. You may find, however, that briefly applying the trailer brakes with your manual control will help eliminate sway.

WARNING:

standstill safety. CHOC K THE TRAILER WHEELS to he double sure. Do not use trailer brakes as parking brakes.

: Never open a radiator cap when the tow vehicle is hot. Check the coolant

: On slippery pavement do not use engine drag to help slow down as this may

When stopping on a hill or slope, leaving your car in gea r is not enough for

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AIRSTREAM CLASSIC TRAILER OWNERS MANUAL

Backing Up

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

ALWAYS TRY TO BACK TO YOUR LEFT BECAUSE THE VISIBILITY IS MUCH BETTER. (See Illustration) When you don't make it on the first try it is usually much easier to pull forward to your original position and start over.

If your spouse or traveling companion normally directs you when backing they should position themselves forward of the tow vehicle so the driver can easily see them. Their directions should always indicate to the driver the direction the rear of the trailer should go. A little practice in a parking lot with the person giving directions can save a lot of frustration when backing into a campsite.

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AIRSTREAM CLASSIC TRAILER OWNERS MANUAL

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 first.)

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.

10. Set table in upright position.

11. Pull up or retract step.

12. Lower blinds.

13 Secure and lock the main door.

Exterior

1. Disconnect and slow the electrical hookup cord, the sewer hookup hose (flush out), and the water hookup hose.

2. Turn off gas at LP tanks.

3. Retract stabilizing jacks.

4. Check Hitch: It must be properly attached.

5. Check safety chains and breakaway switch cable.

6. Fully retract 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. Check that TV antenna is properly stowed.

11. Adjust tow vehicle mirrors.

12. Pull forward some 50 ft., test brakes, and check site for forgotten objects and cleanliness.

Home

1. Leave house key with your neighbor s.

2, Valuables and important papers should be stored in a safe place. 3, Newspaper, milk and other deliveries should be discontinued. 4, Ask the Post Office to hold your mail for you.

5. Arrange with the telephone company for discontinued or "vacation service”.

6. Arrange care for your pets.

7. Your lawn, garden and houseplants should be cared for.

8. Lock all windows and doors securely. Keep shades open for a lived in look.

9. Cover all food to keep out mice and insects.

10. Eliminate all fire hazards Place matches in a tin box or glass jar.

11. Store oil, gasoline and other flammables properly.

12. Destroy all newspapers, magazines and oily rags.

13. Notify police.

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AIRSTREAM CLASSIC TRAILER OWNERS MANUAL

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. The sewer hose with clamp.

4. Drain cap with hose drain.

5. Holding tank cleaner and deodorizer.

6. Power cord adapter 30 --amp Capacity.

7. 50 ft. electric cord, 12-3 wire, 30-ampere capacity.

8. 25 ft. electric cord, 10-3, 30-ampere capacity.

9. Woodblocks for leveling.

10. Wheel chocks.

11. Hydraulic jacks.

12. Cross type lug ranch.

13. Quality tire gauge.

14. Emergency road warning tr iangle.

Personal

1. Automobile insurance to cover you and your family fully.

2. Avoiding cash. Use Travelers Checks and credit cards.

3. Confirmed reservations.

4. Have sunglasses for everyone.

5. Pack camera and film.

6. Make a checklist of clothing for everyone, and toilet articles.

Motoring Essentials

1. Display the car and trailer registration properly.

2. Carry drivers license. In Canada you'll need a non-residence liability insurance card.

3. In Mexico you must have special auto insurance.

4. Carry an extra set of the ignition and truck keys in a separate pocket, or in your wallet.

5. Keep an operating flashlight with fresh batteries in the glove compartment.

6. Pack the trunk so that you can reach the tools and spare tire without completely unpacking.

7. Keep sharp or hard articles securely packed wherever they may be.

8. Do not packed things in the passenger seating area. You need the maximum space for comfort.

9. WEAR easy wash, drip-dry traveling clothes.

10. Do not make your vacation trips a mileage marathon. Stop and relax frequently.

11. Carry a first-aid kit.

12. Carry your pets dish, food, leash, and health and registration papers.

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NOTES

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AIRSTREAM CLASSIC TRAILER OWNERS MANUAL

CAMPING

SAFETY

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

WARNING

up both latches, then turning the latches toward the center releases the escape window . Remove the screen. A loop is provided in the SCREEN RETAINING SPLINE so it can be rapidly removed. Push out on the glass a nd it will swing clear. The window operation should be checked each trip and the latches lubricated with WD-40 or equivalent every six months.

WARNING

block the operation of the escape window by being too close to trees, fences or other impediments. Scenic views are one reason for traveling, but don't park so the beautiful lake or steep cliff is just outside your escape window.

WARNING

on the operation, you and your family should practice, then replace or recharge the extinguisher. You will find your local fire department will be happy to assist you and answer any questions.

WARNING

Don’t smoke in bed.

Keep matches out of reach of small children!

Don't clean with flammable material!

Keep flammable material away from open flame!

We have all heard these warnings many times, but they are still among the leading causes of fires.

Other safety information on the LPG system of your trailer is located in the plumbing section of this manual.

: The escape windows(s) can be identified by their red release handles. Lifting

: At each campsite make sure you have not parked in such a manner as to

: Read the directions carefully on the fire extinguisher. If there is any doubt

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AIRSTREAM CLASSIC TRAILER OWNERS MANUAL

OVERNIGHT STOP

Airstream owners have parked virtually every placing imaginable from filling stations to farmlands. In time you'll develop a knack for spying wonderful little roadside locations by turning off the main highway and exploring.

There are many modern parks including State, County and Federal parks with good facilities where you might obtain hookups of electrical, water and sewer connections. Directories are published which described in detail these parks and tell what is available in the way of services and hookups.

On overnight or weekend trips chances are you will not use up the capacity of the sewage holding tank, deplete the water supply, or rundown the battery which supplies the 12 volt current.

On a longer trip, when you have stayed where sewer connections and utility hookups were not available, it will be necessary for you to stop from time to time to dispose of the waste in the holding tank and replenish the water supply. Many gas stations (chain and individually owned) have installed sanitary dumping stations for just this purpose. Booklets are available which lists these dumping stations.

When stopping for the night, your Airstream is built to be safely parked in any spot that is relatively level and where the ground his firm. Your facilities are with you. You are self-contained. Unless the tow vehicle is needed for transportation, it is not necessary to unhitch.

WARNING

opening.

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

SLIDE OUT ROOM

The trailer should be level prior to extending the slide out room. The front stabilizing jacks MUST be deployed. If the front jacks aren't down when the room is extended the side to side imbalance will twist the body of the trailer if it's only supported by the front hitch jack. Please read the complete leveling and stabilizing instructions in the Extended Stay part of this section.

Once leveled and stabilized, locate the switches to operate the room. They are black and located on the interior wall just forward of the room. The left switch, marked lock downs, must be used first. The lockdowns are the large paddle latches on each end of the room. Depress the switch to the unlock position and hold. You will see the paddle latch on the forward end of the room retracting. Hold the switch down until the panels are completely retracted and you hear the operating motors just start to strain. The motors are thermal protected so you won't have to worry about damaging them.

: Do not parked in a manner that would prevent the escape windows from

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