Airstream International 75th Anniversary 2007 Owner's Manual
OWNERS
AIRSTREAM
A TRAILERING GUIDE
MANUA
INTERNATIONAL
CCD
L
INTRODUCTION
2007 75TH ANNIVERSARY
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.
All information, illustrations and specifications contained in the literature are based on
the latest product information available at the time of publication approval.
Throughout this manual CAUTION and WARNING notations are used.
Failure to observe CAUTION can damage equipment.
WARNING notes the possibility of personal and/or fatal injury if not observed.
Note: If and when new materials and production techniques are developed which
can improve the quality of its product, or material substitutions are necessary due to
availability, Airstream reserves the right to make such changes.
© Airstream, Inc. 2006
TABLE OF CONTENTS
A. WARRANTY AND SERVICE
Warranty
Warranty Explanation
Service
Reporting Safety Defects
Maintenance Schedule
Maintenance Parts & Supplies
B. TOWING
Tow Vehicles
Brakes
Loading
Weighing your Trailer
Hitching Up
Towing Tips
Pre-Travel Check List
D. EXTERIOR
Cleaning
Chassis
Windows & Screens
Power Jack
Tires
Axle and Running Gear
Electric Brakes
E. INTERIOR FURNISHINGS
AND ACCESSORIES
Fabric Care
Flooring & Fixtures
Features & Switches
Storage Areas
Smoke Alarm
LP Gas Detector
Fire Extinguisher
G. ELECTRICAL
12-volt Operation
Battery
Converter
TV Antenna
Satellite Antenna
Solar Panel
Bathroom Exhaust
Monitor Panel
110-Volt System & Components
H. APPLIANCES
Air Conditioner
Furnace
Range/Oven
Refrigerator
Water Heater
Roof Vent, High Volume
C. CAMPING
Camping Safety
Overnight Stop
Extended Stay
Leveling & Stabilizing
Hook Ups
Winter Traveling
Prolonged Occupancy
Condensation
I. SPECIFICATIONS
F. PLUMBING
LP (Liquid Petroleum) Gas
Water
Water Pump
Drainage
Winterizing
Drain and Waste
Toilet
WARRANTY AND SERVICE
A
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 fol-
lows:
BASIC WARRANTY PERIOD
This warranty extends for a period of two years from the date of original retail purchase.
ITEMS COVERED
Any part of the trailer or any component equipment installed by the factory is covered
by the basic warranty except the following items, which are not covered:
• Tires
• Batteries
The tire and battery warranties will be handled by their respective service points and
according to their written policy. This limited warranty does not include failure caused
by accident, abuse, normal wear, overload or any cause not attributable to a defect
in original material or workmanship of the trailer or component equipment as installed
by the factory.
LIMITATION OF IMPLIED WARRANTIES
All warranties of merchantability and fitness for a particular purpose, whether written or
oral, expressed or implied, shall extend only for a period of two years from the date of
original purchase. There are no other warranties, which extend beyond those described
on the face hereof and which expressly excludes conditions resulting from normal wear,
accident, abuse, exposure or overload. Some states do not allow limitation on how
long an implied warranty lasts, so the above limitations may not apply to you.
AIRSTREAM’S RESPONSIBILITY
The basic Airstream Limited Warranty applies for a period of two years from the date
of original purchase, and the application date of all warranties is that indicated on the
owner’s Limited Warranty. Defects in items covered under this Warranty will be cor-
rected without cost upon the return, at the owner’s expense, of the trailer or defective
part to an authorized Airstream dealer.
A - 1
WARRANTY AND SERVICE
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 oxida-
tion. This application is covered by a two-year warranty against peeling. Prolonged
exposure to salt air or industrial fall-out will permit penetration through the coating
material, causing damage to the exterior finish. Since Airstream, Inc., has no control
over these conditions, it is necessary for the owner to wash and maintain their trailer
as instructed in the Owner’s Manual.
The owner is also responsible for following all recommendations, instructions and pre-
cautions 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.)
A
4. If, after taking the above steps, repairs are still not complete, the Airstream owner may
request the trailer be brought to the Factory Service Center at the owner’s expense.
A - 2
WARRANTY AND SERVICE
A
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 ex-
penses or damages resulting from a defect. Incidental expenses include, but
are not limited to: travel expenses, gasoline, oil, lodging, meals, telephone tolls,
and loss of work and loss of use of the trailer. Some examples of consequen-
tial damages would be: stained curtains due to rain leaks or delaminated floor
caused by a plumbing leak. Some states do not allow the exclusion or limitation
of incidental or consequential damages, so the above limitation or exclusion may
not apply to you.
WARRANTY TRANSFER
The basic Airstream Limited Warranty is transferable to subsequent owners for the
duration of the warranty period. Warranty transfer application forms are available from
your dealer or the Airstream Inc. Service Administration Department.
CHANGES IN DESIGN
Airstream Inc. reserves the right to make changes in design and improvements upon
its product without imposing my obligation upon itself to install the same upon its
products theretofore manufactured.
This warranty gives you specific legal rights, and you may also have other rights,
which vary from state to state.
A - 3
WARRANTY AND SERVICE
EXPLANATION OF AIRSTREAM LIMITED WARRANTY
The Airstream Limited Warranty is detailed in a separate folder. It is filled out by the
dealer and presented to the owner during delivery of a new unit. The Limited Warranty
must be presented to a dealer to obtain warranty service. It should be kept in the trailer
during the warranty period.
EXCLUSIONS:
Normal Wear
Items such as tires, water purifier packs, curtains, upholstery, floor coverings, window,
door and vent seals will show wear or may even wear out within the two year warranty
period depending upon the amount of usage, weather, and atmospheric conditions.
Accident
We strongly urge our dealers and customers to inspect the trailer upon receipt of
delivery for any damage caused by accident while being delivered to the dealer, or
while it is on the dealer’s lot. Damage of this nature becomes the dealer or customer’s
responsibility upon acceptance of delivery, unless Airstream is notified and the person
making the delivery verifies the damage. Glass breakage, whether obviously struck or
mysterious, is always accidental and covered by most insurance policies.
Abuse
Lack of customer care and/or improper maintenance will result in early failure for which
Airstream cannot be held responsible.
Exposure
Not unlike a car, the steel parts of a trailer can and will rust if subjected to prolonged
exposure to moisture, salt air, or corrosive air-borne pollutants without repainting.
Aluminum oxidizes when unprotected under similar conditions, and refinery chemicals
of a sulfurous nature are harmful to finishes if not washed off periodically. Extremely hot
or direct sunlight will deteriorate rubber and fade curtains and upholstery. Conditions
of this nature, although they may be normal for the area, are beyond Airstream’s control
and become the responsibility of the owner.
It is the responsibility of the owner to take such preventative measures as are neces
sary 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 floor; 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 be-
cause of improper balance, is beyond Airstream’s responsibility. The Airstream trailer
is engineered to properly handle the gross vehicle load rating on the certification
label. Load distribution has a definite effect upon the towing characteristics and
attitudes of the trailer. Level hitch installations are a necessity, and very important
on a tandem axle trailer. There are limits to the amount of load that can be safely
transported depending upon speed and road conditions, and reasonable cause to
believe these factors have been exceeded could void the Airstream warranty. For
additional information on the loading of your trailer, consult your Owner’s Manual or
gross vehicle weight rating plate.
The Airstream axle is manufactured to a tolerance of 1-degree camber and 1/8” toe-in.
These tolerances will only change if the trailer is subjected to abuse, such as dropping
off a sharp berm, striking a curb, or hitting a deep hole in the road. Such damage could
be considered as resulting from an accident which risks are not covered under the
warranty. Abnormal tire wear and/or wheel alignment resulting from such damage is
not covered under the terms of the warranty.
-
A
A - 4
WARRANTY AND SERVICE
A
SERVICE:
Before leaving the factory, each and every vital part of the trailer is tested for perfor-
mance. 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.
At that time a specified list of performance checks on your trailer equipment will be
conducted and any deficiencies you have experienced since taking delivery will be
corrected.
Please contact your dealer if you need service. Major service under your Airstream
Limited Warranty is available through our nationwide network of Airstream Dealer
Service Centers. An up-to-date list of Dealer Service Centers has been provided with
your new trailer. This list is current as of the date of this publication.
Occasionally dealerships change, or new dealers are added who may not appear on
this list. For this reason, it is suggested that you contact your local dealer from time
to time and bring your list up to date. He can also provide you with additional copies
if you need them. ALL CENTERS OPERATE ON AN APPOINTMENT BASIS FOR THE
UTMOST EFFICIENCY.
REPORTING SAFETY DEFECTS
If you believe that your vehicle has a defect, which could cause a crash or could cause
injury or death, you should immediately inform the National Highway Traffic Safety
Administration (NHTSA) in addition to notifying Airstream, Inc.
If NHTSA receives similar complaints, it may open an investigation, and if it finds that a
safety defect exists in a group of vehicles, it may order a recall and remedy campaign.
However, NHTSA cannot become involved in individual problems between you, your
dealer, or Airstream, Inc.
To contact NHTSA you may either call the Auto Safety Hotline toll-free at 1-888-327-
4236 (TTY 1-800-424-9153) or write to: NHTSA, 400 Seventh ST. SW, Washington,
D.C. 20590.
You can also obtain other information about motor vehicle safety from the Hotline or
view the NHTSA Web site: www.safercar.gov
When you require service from the Airstream Factory Service Center, or a Certified
Dealer Service Center, please contact the service manager for an appointment, and
kindly inform him if you are unable to keep the appointment date or wish to change
it. Service may be arranged at the Factory Service Center by contacting the Service
Coordinator at: Airstream Factory Service Center, P.O. Box 629, 419 W. Pike Street,
Jackson Center, Ohio 45334-0629 Phone: 937-596-6111
A - 5
WARRANTY AND SERVICE
MAINTENANCE SCHEDULE
WARNING: FAILURE TO MAINTAIN YOUR COACH CAN CAUSE
PREMATURE AND UNEXPECTED PARTS BREAKAGE AND/OR ERRATIC
OPERATION THAT MAY BE HAZARDOUS.
Note: See appliance manufacturer’s literature for further information
EVERY 1,000 MILES OR 60 DAYS
Escape Window Check operation of latches and upper hinge.
*Battery Check water level
Smoke Alarm Test and replace battery as required.
Tires Check tire pressure (See Specifications).
Hitch Check for loose bolts or unusual wear.
EVERY 5,000 MILES OR 90 DAYS
Exterior Door locks Lubricate with dry graphite
Exterior Hinges Lubricate with light household oil
LPG Hold Down Lubricate with light household oil
LPG Regulator Check bottom vent for obstructions
Main Door Striker Pocket Coat with paraffin.
Wheel Lug Nuts Torque wheels to 95 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
A
GFI Circuit Breaker Test and record.
WARNING: WHEEL SEPARATION CAN OCCUR
1. On first trip, tighten wheel lugs at start and at 10, 25, and 50 miles.
2. Thereafter, check wheel lugs before each trip.
3. Following winter storage, check before beginning a trip.
4. Following excessive braking, inspect wheel lugs
Torque wheels to 95 ft. lbs.
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. Checking water level does not apply to Glass Mat Batteries.
A - 6
WARRANTY AND SERVICE
A
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 lubri-
cant.
Exterior Wax (Do not use an abrasive cleaner or wax).
Escape Window Lubricate latches with WD-40.
EVERY YEAR
Battery Clean, neutralize and coat termi-
nals 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 as needed. Use
Acryl-R seam sealer or equivalent.
Hitch Coupler and Ball: Check for wear or damage. Assure all parts operate freely.
Replace any component if worn or damaged.
A - 7
WARRANTY AND SERVICE
SUGGESTED MAINTENANCE PARTS AND LUBRICANTS
BULBS, EXTERIOR
Convenience Light (Dump Valve) # 53, wedge base
License Plate, Clearance Lights # 67
Door Light # 1141
Tail light LED
BULBS, INTERIOR
Shower, Exterior Compartment # 1141
Round Ceiling Light 12V-10W
To change the bulb in the round ceiling light, first remove the lens assembly. The lens
assembly is spring loaded and pops out of the fixture at its chrome ring. A small screw-
driver may be used, be careful not to scratch the chrome and be sure the bulb is cool
before attempting replacement. The bulb inserts into the ballast by two wire prongs.
Grasp the bulb with a piece of cloth and pull it gently straight out from its ballast. Insert
the new bulb, and replace the lens. The lens assembly has two grooves that must be
aligned to the light fixture before snapping the lens back into place.
WARNING: Always replace the light bulb on an interior or exterior light
fixture with the correct bulb for that light. Failure to heed this warning could
cause fire, property damage, personal injury, or death.
FUSES
Radio ATC 15 Amp
Battery Cable Fuses SLC 50 Amp
(Canadian approved trailers only)
Power Center 20 & 30 amp Automotive fuses
Battery Disconnect Relay ATC 5 amp
12-VOLT BREAKERS
Location: just above the floor on 50 Amp Type 2
roadside interior front end. 30 Amp Type 2
20 Amp Type 2
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
A
Hitch Ball Lube (May use wheel bearing grease.) Exterior Seam Sealer
A - 8
WARRANTY AND SERVICE
MAINTENANCE RECORD
A
DATE DEALER SERVICE PERFORMEDDATE DEALER SERVICE PERFORMED
A - 9
TOWING
TOW VEHICLE EQUIPMENT
If you plan to buy a new vehicle to tow your trailer, we suggest that you include in
your purchase the towing options offered by most tow vehicle manufacturers. These
include such things as a heavy-duty alternator and radiator, heavy-duty springs (See
Note), 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 pro-
long your tow vehicle’s life and generally does a better job of controlling engine loads
than the average driver using a manual shift.
Having adequate power is very important when considering the purchase of a new
vehicle or the trailer towing capability of your present one. American manufacturers
realize more than 30% of the vehicles they sell will be used for towing some type of
trailer. The dealers are provided with guidelines to use when helping a customer decide
on a tow vehicle. The guidelines are not just determined by the power output of the
engine. The gear ratio of the differential is also a very important part of the guideline.
Inspect the vehicle’s hitch regularly for loose bolts or nuts, cracked welds, loose ball
mounts, and worn parts.
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.
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 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.
B
NOTE: Be realistic when ordering heavy duty springs. Only springs heavy enough to
support your loaded vehicle (not including trailer) are necessary. Too harsh of spring
rate will only shorten the life of the tow vehicle and trailer, and will make your journeys
less enjoyable.
B - 1
B
TOWING
BREAKAWAY SWITCH
IN THE EVENT OF AN ACCIDENTAL SEPARATION of the tow vehicle and the trailer,
the BREAK-AWAY SWITCH will set and lock the trailer brakes for a sufficient length
of time to stop the trailer. The switch is activated when the wire attached to it and to
the tow vehicle pulls out the small pin in the front of the unit. THIS PIN SHOULD BE
PULLED OUT, LUBRICATED WITH LIGHT HOUSEHOLD OIL, AND REPLACED EVERY
90 DAYS.
To prevent corrosion within the breakaway switch, pull the switch’s pin straight forward
and spray the inside of the switch through the hole with an electric contact cleaner
(such as Spra-Kleen) and re-insert 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.
WARNING: Do not use breakaway switch for parking brake.
7-way Plug Diagram
Black, 12V
-
Blank
Brown, Right
Turn
Blue, Brake
Clearance Lights
Green
Turn, Red
Left
12V, White
,
B - 2
LOADING
Below is a sample of the weight information chart provided in all Airstream vehicles.
This information can be found inside the wardrobe of the vehicle about 60” up from
the floor on the side panel.
TOWING
WARNING: Never add items such as generators, heavy toolboxes or
motorcycle racks to the back of the trailer. Weight behind the axle will tend to
magnify any sway that may occur when passing trucks or in gusty wind. If a
heavy generator is mounted on the rear bumper what may have been an almost
unnoticeable sway turns into a severe sway you may not he able to control.
CAUTION: Damage to your trailer caused by mounting heavy objects on the
rear is considered abuse, and is not covered by warranty.
WARNING: Never exceed the 100 lbs. rating on the bumper mounted
receiver. Do not use the receiver for towing. Overloading behind the axle will
tend to magnify any sway that may occur when passing trucks or in gusty wind.
Overloading behind the axle and weight mounted on the rear bumper over the
100 lbs. maximum may turn what may have been an almost unnoticeable sway
into a severe sway you may not he able to control and could cause structural
damage to your trailer.
B
See specification section in this manual for definition and weight pertaining to this
label.
B - 3
TOWING
B
WEIGHING YOUR TRAILER
The diagram below shows how to weigh the trailer
on scales.
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.
CAUTION: 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 the
manufacturer’s maximum recommended hitch weight
of the tow vehicle or hitch. To determine tongue load,
unhitch tow vehicle and place the tongue hitch post
on a scale. The trailer must be properly loaded as de-
termined 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 cen-
terline of the jack extension in the other direction.
Place a 4 x 4 on the two round pieces and screw
the jack extension down on the top of the 4 x 4 until
the tongue of the trailer is supported by it. Multiply
the scale reading by three. This will be the tongue
weight of your trailer. If you exceed the capacity of
the bathroom scales, increase the two-foot dimen-
sion to three or four more feet, but always multiply
the scale reading by the total number of feet between
the wood and scales.
2 FT.
Pipe
Bathroom Scale
Note: Be sure trailer is level when you read scales.
Pipe
1 Ft.
Wo
od Support
B - 4
TOWING
HITCHING UP
Hitching up your trailer is something that will become
almost second nature with practice. The following
section includes proper hitch load distribution and a
procedure for hitching up.
Equalizing Hitch Load Distribution
When a trailer is hitched up properly to a tow vehicle
with a load equalizing hitch, approximately 1/3 of the
trailer’s tongue weight will be on the trailer’s axles and
2/3 will be transferred to the tow vehicle, 1/3 of this
weight transfer will be carried by the front wheels and
1/3 by the rear wheels of the tow vehicle (See diagram),
Thus, the tire load of each wheel on the tow vehicle will
be increased by 1/6 of the trailer’s tongue weight. The
tire air pressure of the tow vehicle should be increased
to compensate for this additional weight. Refer to the
vehicle’s owner’s manual for this information.
Percentage of Tongue Load
distributed to car and or trailer wheels
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 understand-
ing 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.
B
WARNING: The tongue weight should
he approximately 10% to 14% of the trailer’s total
weight. Under no condition should it exceed the
hitch rating. Your hitch installer should provide your
hitch rating information to you.
B - 5
TOWING
B
Steps for Hitching Up
The following steps are for a typical hitch system
and are not meant to supercede instructions and
training provided for the hitch installed on your tow
vehicle. Please follow instructions and training pro-
vided with your hitch and its installer. The next page
is provided for notes as needed on your hitch.
1. 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. 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.
2. Lower the trailer hitch onto the hitch ball. Then close
the locking lever and insert safety pin.
3. Now raise the trailer and tow vehicle to the full height
of the hitch jack and then attach the LEVELING BARS.
Lever the tension on the bars. Lower the tow vehicle
and trailer.
The hitch ball should be level to slightly higher.
Readjust leveling bars until this condition is correct by
increasing or decreasing the length the chain engaged
in “A” frame saddle bracket. Short chain raises hitch
ball, longer chain lowers it. A level condition will result
in the best balance for towing and steering control as
the weight-equalizing hitch distributes the hitch load.
A low hitch ball increases tail wagging tendencies
by lowering the nose of the trailer, thus changing the
center of support for the trailer and reducing the weight
on the four wheels of the tow vehicle. With proper
hitch installation and hitching up, the bar should have a
noticeable amount of the deflection or bending. A little
practice with your rig will teach you how far to pull the
bar; you may wish to mark the chain links that match
your rig.
Always choose level ground for checking correct
hookup.
Note: If you’re tow vehicle is equipped with adjustable
load leveling air shocks, you must load the tow vehicle
first with typical luggage and passengers and bring it
back to level. Then attach the trailer and adjust the
load leveling bars. Otherwise the air shocks on the tow
vehicle will overload the rear wheels. Do not use air
shocks to level tow vehicle and trailer after hitching
up.
Note: Leveling the trailer end to end, then measuring
from the ground to the inside top of the ball socket
determines hitch ball height for the tow vehicle
4. Attach the safety chains to the welded portion of the
hitch or tow vehicle’s frame, but never to the remov-
able ball mount. Cross the safety chains under the
hitch.
5. Remove the jack pad and stow in the tow vehicle’s
trunk along with the leveling jack and other gear
used when stopped.
CAUTION; Check that the foldaway step is up and
LOCKED in its store position and that the main door
is completely closed and the dead bolt LOCKED for
towing. If they are not locked the constant vibra-
tion of travel may cause them to open with possible
damage.
CAUTION; Retract the hitch jack completely for
maximum ground clearance. NEVER TOW YOUR
TRAILER WITH THE JACK DOWN.
6. 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 pres-
sure, and the tightness of your lug nuts.
NOTICE!
CHECK WHEEL LUGS
On first trip, tighten wheel lugs at start and at 10, 25,
and 100 miles. Tighten to 95 Ft. Lbs.. There after, check
wheel lugs before each trip, after excessive braking,
and following winter storage.
B - 6
NOTES
TOWING
B
B - 7
TOWING
B
TOWING TIPS
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.
After thoroughly inspecting your hitch, brakes, and tires you should be ready to tow.
Check traffic, signal that you are about to pull away, and start slowly. Look often in your
mirrors, and observe the action of the trailer, then carefully move into the proper lane
of traffic. Remember that the trailer wheels will not follow the path of the tow vehicle
wheels; therefore, WIDER TURNS ARE NECESSARY WHEN TURNING TO THE LEFT
OR TO THE RIGHT.
We want every owner to be a safe and courteous driver. On a two-lane road cars may
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.
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.
WARNING: Never open a radiator cap when the tow vehicle is hot.
Check the coolant level when the vehicle is cool. Read your tow vehicles owner’s
manual and follow all instructions on the cooling system.
Tracking
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.
When trailering you might encounter a temporary cooling system overload during
severe conditions such as hot days when pulling on a long grade, when slowing down
after higher speed driving, or driving long idle periods in traffic jams. If the hot indicator
light comes on, or the temperature gauge indicates overheating and you have your air
conditioner turned on, turn it off. Pull over in a safe place and put on your emergency
B - 8
Passing
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 ve-
hicle you will need longer to accelerate. You must also
allow for the length of the trailer when returning to the
right hand lane.
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.
TOWING
CAUTION: When driving in mud and sand let the
momentum carry the rig through. Apply power
gently and use as little as possible. Stay in the tracks
of the vehicle ahead and keep the tow vehicle in the
highest possible gear. If you get stuck it is best to
tow out the entire rig together without unhitching.
Despite the best hitch you will notice that whenever
a large bus or truck overtakes your rig the displaced
air first pushes the trailer rear slightly to the right and
then affects the front. It may be necessary to steer very
slightly, momentarily, toward the bus or truck to help
compensate for the sway induced by the passing-ve-
hicle. 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.
B
When going downhill in dry weather, down shift 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: When stopping on a hill or
slope, leaving your tow vehicle in gear is not enough
for standstill safety. CHOCK THE TRAILER WHEELS
to be double sure. Do not use trailer brakes as park-
ing brakes.
B - 9
TOWING
Backing Up
B
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 vehicle will be following the trailer in an arc. Straighten the tow vehicle
and trailer by turning the steering wheel more sharply, and then when they are in line,
straighten the steering wheel.
ALWAYS TRY TO BACK TO YOUR LEFT BECAUSE THE VISIBILITY IS MUCH BETTER.
(See Illustration) When you don’t make it on the first try it is usually much easier to pull
forward to your original position and start over.
If your spouse or traveling companion normally directs you when backing they should
position themselves forward of the tow vehicle so the driver can easily see them. Their
directions should always indicate to the driver the direction the rear of the trailer should
go. A little practice in a parking lot with the person giving directions can save a lot of
frustration when backing into a campsite.
B - 10
TOWING
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 main door and dead bolt.
Exterior
1. Disconnect and stow 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, foot, or wood block.
7. Check clearance, turn signals, and stop lights.
8. Check lug nuts.
9. Check tires for correct pressure.
10. Check that TV antenna is properly stowed.
11. Lock main door dead bolt.
12. Adjust tow vehicle mirrors.
13. Pull forward some 50 ft., test brakes, and check site for forgotten objects
and cleanliness.
WARNING: WHEEL SEPARATION CAN OCCUR
1. On first trip, tighten wheel lugs at start and at 10, 25, and 50 miles.
2. Thereafter, check wheel lugs before each trip.
3. Following winter storage, check before beginning a trip.
4. Following excessive braking, inspect wheel lugs
Torque wheels to 95 ft. lbs.
Home
1. Leave house key with your neighbors
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 of your departure and return dates.
B
B - 11
TOWING
B
Trailer Equipment and Accessories
1. Water hose, 5/8 in. high pressure, tasteless, odorless, non-toxic,
(or two 25 ft. sections).
2. “Y” connection for 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 wrench.
13. Torque Wrench
14. Quality tire gauge.
15. Emergency road warning triangle.
Personal
Motoring Essentials
1. Display the tow vehicle and trailer registration properly.
2. Carry valid drivers license.
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 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 pet’s dish, food, leash, and health and registration papers.
13. In Canada you’ll need a non-residence liability insurance card and birth
certificate.
1. Tow vehicle insurance to cover you and your family fully along with proof
of insurance.
2. Try to avoid large amounts of cash. Use Travelers Checks and credit cards.
3. Confirm reservations.
4. Have sunglasses, sun block, and bug spray for everyone.
5. Pack camera and film.
6. Make a checklist of clothing for everyone, and toilet articles.
7. Prescribed medications.
8. Birth certificate, Passport.
9. Medical insurance cards.
B - 12
NOTES
TOWING
B
B - 13
C
CAMPING
SAFETY
Throughout this manual CAUTION and WARNING notations are used.
Failure to observe CAUTION can damage equipment. WARNING notes
the possibility of personal and/or fatal injury if not observed. As always, safety should
be one of your top priorities. Make sure you, and everyone traveling with you is familiar
with and follows these cautions and warnings.
ESCAPE WINDOW OPERATION
Make sure you, and everyone traveling with you can operate the main door and the
emergency exit window(s) rapidly without light. Contemplate other means of escape
in case the designated exits are blocked. Run frequent emergency drills. The escape
windows(s) are identified by red release handles and are opened by lifting up both
latches, then turning the latches toward the center. Push out on the glass and it will
swing clear. The window operation should be checked each trip and the latches
lubricated with WD-40 or equivalent every six months. A loop is provided in the
SCREEN RETAINING SPLINE so it can be rapidly removed. Take hold of the loop
and pull the rubber spline out of the screen frame. The window screen can then be
easily pushed out.
WARNING: Learn and practice the escape window operation.
WARNING: You and all your family should practice escape procedures
so they can be rapidly accomplished even in total darkness. Never block the
interior or exterior access to the emergency escape windows.
WARNING: Read the directions carefully on the fire extinguisher. If there
is any doubt on the operation, you and your family should practice, then replace
or recharge the extinguisher. You will find your local fire department or any fire
safety service will be happy to assist you and answer any questions.
WARNING: Maintain and check smoke detector per its owner’s manual
recommendations.
WARNING: Always shut off the LP gas when gasoline is added to the
tow vehicle.
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.
WARNING: Check the emergency escape route outside your escape
window at every stop. 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. Never park your trailer so the escape windows cannot be easily used
for emergency exits.
Other safety information on the LPG system of your trailer is located in the plumbing
section of this manual.
C - 1
OVERNIGHT STOP
Airstream owners have parked virtually every place 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 electrical, water and sewer hookups. 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.
CAMPING
WARNING: Do not parked in a manner that would prevent the escape
windows from opening.
Try to pick as level a parking spot as possible. Stabilizing jacks or blocks prob-
ably won’t be required during 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 this 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
LP gas and light any appliances with pilots.
Before moving on, check your campsite for both cleanliness and also be sure you
haven’t left anything behind. Turn off the gas supply and make sure everything is
properly stowed. Use your PRE-TRAVEL CHECK LIST and you are ready for more
travel adventure.
C
When stopping for the night, your Airstream is built to be safely parked in any spot that
is relatively level and where the ground is firm. Your facilities are with you. You are
self-contained. Unless the tow vehicle is needed for transportation, it is not necessary
to unhitch.
C - 2
CAMPING
C
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 every-
thing you need, but only what you need.
When you plan to stay in the same place for several
days, weeks or months, you will want your trailer to be
as level and steady as possible. Check the attitude with
a small spirit level set on the inside work counter or the
trailer hitch “A-Frame”. (See Diagram Below) If a
correction is necessary then YOU MUST LEVEL FROM
SIDE TO SIDE FIRST This can he done easily by back
ing the trailer up one or more 2” x 6” boards. We do not
recommend placing tires in a hole for leveling.
LEVEL FROM FRONT TO REAR by disconnecting the
hitch from the tow vehicle, putting the jack pad under
the hitch jack and adjusting the jack up or down until
you are level. Block or chock the wheels to keep the
trailer from rolling. Use STABILIZING JACKS at the two
rear corners as shown in the diagram to eliminate the
natural spring action of the axles. STABILIZING JACKS
should only he used to stabilize trailer.
-
lifted with a jack, as when changing a tire or leveling
on very rough terrain, ALWAYS PLACE THE LIFTING
JACK UNDER THE MAIN FRAME RAIL. A label is
provided to indicate the proper position for the
jack. NEVER USE STABILIZING JACKS or HITCH
JACK TO LIFT THE TRAILER.
WARNING: Whenever the trailer must be
C - 3
CAMPING
HOOK UPS
Hook up to city water by attaching a ½” minimum high-
pressure water hose to the city water service. Be sure
all drain valves and the water heater by-pass valves are
in the normal use position and turn on the city water
tap. Open the hot side of the galley or lavatory faucet.
For some time the open faucet will only sputter. This is
because the water heater is being filled and air is being
pushed out through the lines. Once the water heater is full
a steady stream of water will come from the faucet. Now
open a cold faucet. It will sputter for a short time, but will
soon expel a steady stream. All other faucets can now be
opened until all air is expelled.
Water
Inlet
City
CAUTION: Hydrogen gas can be produced in a hot
water system served by this heater that has not been
used for a long period of time (generally two weeks
or more). Hydrogen gas is extremely flammable. To
reduce the risk of injury under these conditions, it is
recommended that the hot water faucet be opened
for several minutes at the kitchen sink before using
any electrical appliance connected to the hot water
system. If hydrogen is present there will probably be
an unusual sound such as air escaping through the
pipe as the water begins to flow. There should be no
smoking or open flame near the faucet at the time it
is open.
The Power Cord hook-up is on the roadside 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.
CAUTION: When operating with city power make very
certain that the service is 110 volt and not 220 volt.
Hook your SEWER WATER DRAIN HOSE in the SEWER
DISPOSAL FACILITY and attach to the drain outlet in your
trailer.
Turn on gas supply. Light the range and oven pilots. Turn
on the water heater, refrigerator and furnace.
When you stay for an extended period where electric or
water hookups are not available, you must make regular
checks on the charge condition of your 12-volt battery
system. Hooking up the tow vehicle/trailer electrical con
nector and running the tow vehicle engine at a fast idle.
45 minutes per day should provide about 3-4 hours of
power. Carry drinking water in a clean bucket to refill your
tank. When your waste tank nears capacity move to a
dumping location.
C
-
Once the system is filled with water and the faucets
closed, the water system is now ready for use with the
city water feed.
C - 4
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