The Owner’s Manual for your new Nest is designed to
respond to the most frequent inquiries regarding the
operation, function, and care of the many systems that
make modern trailering a joy.
Airstream realizes our customers possess varying
degrees of expertise in the area of maintaining and
repairing the appliances in their trailer. For this reason,
the service information found in this manual is directed
toward those with average mechanical skills.
We also realize that you may be more familiar with
one area than you are with another. Only you know
your capabilities and limitations. We want you to use
this manual and hope you will nd the information
contained in it useful. However, should you ever feel
that you may be in need of assistance, please consult
your Airstream dealer for advice on service that may be
required.
A brief explanation of the operation of the appliances
such as refrigerator, furnace, water heater, and others,
are explained in this manual. However, you will also
nd the manufacturer’s information, supplied in a
packet included with this manual, to be more detailed.
All information, illustrations, and specications
contained in this manual are based on the latest
product information available at the time of publication
approval. If and when new materials and production
techniques are developed that can improve the quality
of its product, or material substitutions are necessary
due to availability, Airstream reserves the right to make
such changes.
We have provided many important safety messages
in this manual. Always read and obey all safety
messages.
WARNING
A warning is used for a hazardous situation which,
if not avoided, could result in death or serious
injury to persons.
CAUTION
A caution is used to advise caution when
performing actions that could result in minor or
moderate injury to persons and/or damage to
equipment.
NOTE
A note is used to address practices not related
to personal injury. This applies to hazardous
situations involving property damage only.
Optional items may be available on all, or particular
models. Additionally, some optional items can only be
included during the manufacturing phase and cannot
later be added to the trailer.
The inclusion of optional items information in this
manual does not imply or suggest the availability,
application, suitability, or inclusion for any specic unit.
2020 Nest1-1
Page 6
Introduction
NOTES
2020 Nest1-2
Page 7
Section 2
SAFETY
SAFETY . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2-1
SAFETY PRECAUTIONS . . . . . . . . . 2-2
Transporting of Passengers . . . . . . . 2-2
Towing and Weight Distribution . . . . . . 2-2
Controlling Sway . . . . . . . . . . . 2-2
Lug Nut Torquing . . . . . . . . . . . 2-2
Tire Safety . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2-2
Appliances and Equipment . . . . . . . 2-2
Mold . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2-2
CHEMICAL SENSITIVITY AND VENTILATION 2-2
Chemical Sensitivity . . . . . . . . . . 2-2
Formaldehyde . . . . . . . . . . . . 2-3
Ventilation . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2-3
Do Not Smoke . . . . . . . . . . . . 2-3
Medical Advice . . . . . . . . . . . . 2-3
ALARMS AND DETECTORS . . . . . . . 2-3
Smoke Alarm . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2-3
Carbon Monoxide Detector . . . . . . . 2-4
This Carbon Monoxide Detector Is Not 2-4
Important Safety Precautions . . . . 2-4
What Is Carbon Monoxide . . . . . . . . 2-4
Symptoms of Carbon Monoxide Poisoning . 2-5
Liquid Propane Gas (LPG) Detector . . . . 2-5
Low Voltage . . . . . . . . . . . 2-5
Detector Test . . . . . . . . . . 2-6
Fire Extinguisher . . . . . . . . . . . 2-6
Emergency Exits . . . . . . . . . . . 2-6
2020 Nest2-1
Page 8
Safety
Safety Precautions
Many things can be construed as safety related, but
the most important is your common sense. If you are
careless with matches, cigarettes, ammable material,
or any other hazardous material, you surely realize
your potential for accidents is greatly increased.
You will nd many safety recommendations in this
section and throughout the manual. The following
recommendations are the ones we consider to be the
most important.
Transporting of Passengers
The transporting of people in the trailer puts their
lives at risk and may be illegal. The trailer does not
have seat belts, therefore, it is not designed to carry
passengers.
Towing and Weight Distribution
Weight distribution is an important factor when loading
your travel trailer. A recreational vehicle with the cargo
distributed properly will result in efcient, troublefree towing. Refer to Section 7 - Towing for more
information.
Controlling Sway
Tire Safety
Properly maintained tires improve the steering,
stopping, traction, and load-carrying capability of your
vehicle. Refer to Section 8 - Maintenance for tire care
and safety information. Also, be sure to read the Tire
Safety Manual Addendum included with your owner’s
packet.
Appliances and Equipment
The appliances (stove, refrigerator, etc.) and equipment
(hot water heater, furnace, etc.) typically operate on
LP gas. LP gas is ammable and is contained under
high pressure. Improper use may result in a re and/
or explosion. Make sure to follow all instructions and
warnings in this manual as well as those in the specic
owner’s manuals of the appliances and equipment.
Mold
Mold and mold spores exist throughout indoor and
outdoor environments. There is no practical way
to eliminate all mold and mold spores in the indoor
environment, however, the way to control indoor
mold growth is to control moisture. Refer to Section
3 - General Information for information on controlling
condensation and molds.
Sway or shtailing is the sideways action of a trailer
caused by external forces. Excessive sway of your
travel trailer can lead to the rollover of the trailer and
tow vehicle, resulting in serious injury or death. Refer
to Section 7 - Towing for more information.
Lug Nut Torquing
Making sure wheel mounting nuts (lug nuts) on
trailer wheels are tight and properly torqued is an
important responsibility that trailer owners and users
need to understand and practice. Inadequate and/or
inappropriate wheel nut torque (tightness) is a major
cause of lug nuts loosening in service. Loose lug nuts
can rapidly lead to a wheel separation resulting in
potentially serious safety consequences. See torque
pattern in the Section 8 - Maintenance for tightening
sequence, and follow torque specications in Section
4 - Floor Plans and Specications.
NOTE
Torque Aluminum Wheels to 110 ft. lbs and Steel
Wheels to 100 ft. lbs.
Chemical Sensitivity and Ventilation
Chemical Sensitivity
Immediately after the purchase of your new
recreational vehicle, and sometimes after it has been
closed up for an extended period of time, you may
notice a strong odor and/or experience a chemical
sensitivity. This is not a defect in your recreational
vehicle. Like your home, there are many different
products used in the construction of recreational
vehicles, such as carpet, linoleum, plywood, insulation,
upholstery, etc. Formaldehyde is also the by-product of
combustion and numerous household products, such
as some paints, coatings, and cosmetics. However,
recreational vehicles are much smaller than your home
and therefore, the exchange of air inside a recreational
vehicle is signicantly less than in a home. These
products, when new or when exposed to elevated
temperatures and/or humidity, may off-gas different
chemicals, including formaldehyde. This off-gassing, in
combination with the minimal air exchange, may cause
you to experience irritation of the eyes, nose, and
throat and sometimes headache, nausea, and a variety
of asthma-like symptoms. Elderly persons and young
children, as well as anyone with a history of asthma,
allergies, or lung problems, may be more susceptible to
the effects of off-gassing.
2-22020 Nest
Page 9
Safety
Formaldehyde
Formaldehyde is a naturally occurring substance and
is an important chemical used widely by industries
to manufacture building materials and numerous
household products. It is also a by-product of
combustion and certain other natural processes.
Thus, it may be present inside the trailer and some
individuals may be sensitive to it. Ventilation of the unit
normally reduces the exposure to a comfortable level.
Trace levels of formaldehyde are released from
smoking, cooking, and use of soaps and detergents,
such as carpet shampoos, cosmetics, and many other
household products. Some people are very sensitive to
formaldehyde while others may not have any reaction
to the same levels of formaldehyde. Amounts released
decrease over time.
Nest is manufactured using low formaldehydeemitting (LFE) wood products, use of which is typical
in the recreation vehicle industry. Formaldehyde
has an important role in the adhesives used to bind
wood products used in recreation vehicles. The
wood products in your trailer are designed to emit
formaldehyde at or lower than industry guidelines and
should not produce symptoms in most individuals.
While LFE wood products typically do not emit
formaldehyde at a level that would cause symptoms
in most individuals, it is possible, though not likely, for
that to occur when the trailer is not properly ventilated.
Ventilation is an essential requirement for trailer use,
for many reasons. Any effects of formaldehyde can be
greatly reduced by actions such as opening windows,
opening roof vents, running the air conditioner, or
some combination thereof. In addition, the emission of
formaldehyde by these products naturally decreases
rapidly over time.
Airstream strongly suggests you take measures to
properly ventilate your trailer on a regular basis. If you
have any questions with respect to proper ventilation
of your trailer, please do not hesitate to contact your
Airstream dealer.
Ventilation
To reduce or lessen exposure to chemicals from offgassing, it is of utmost importance that you ventilate
your recreational vehicle. Ventilation should occur
frequently after purchase and at times when the
temperatures and humidity are elevated. Remember,
off-gassing is accelerated by heat and humidity.
Open windows, exhaust vents, and doors. Operate
ceiling and/or other fans, roof air conditioners, and
furnaces, and use a fan to force stale air out and bring
fresh air in. Decreasing the ow of air by sealing the
recreational vehicle increases the formaldehyde level
in the vehicle’s indoor air.
Do Not Smoke
It is recommended you do not smoke inside your
recreational vehicle. In addition to causing damage
to your recreational vehicle, tobacco smoke releases
formaldehyde and other toxic chemicals.
Medical Advice
Questions regarding the effects of formaldehyde on
your health should be submitted to your doctor or local
health department.
Alarms and Detectors
Smoke Alarm
A smoke alarm is provided with your trailer. A manual
pertaining to the alarm is included in the paper work
given to you at the dealership. Please read and follow
all care, maintenance, and safety information contained
in the smoke alarm manual.
The smoke alarm will beep once a minute for at least
30 days when the battery is weak. The battery must
immediately be replaced with a fresh one.
WARNING
Alarm battery is shipped deactivated. Check your
alarm for proper battery installation. To activate
battery, new Airstream owner’s must install
included battery to proper orientation.
WARNING
Smoke alarms have a limited life. The unit should
be replaced immediately if it is not operating
properly. You should always replace a smoke alarm
after 10 years from the date of purchase. Write the
purchase date on the space provided on the back
of unit.
If service is required or you have not received a smoke
alarm user’s manual, please contact the manufacturer,
your dealer, or Airstream Customer Service.
2020 Nest2-3
Page 10
Safety
Carbon Monoxide Detector
Carefully read and understand the contents of the
provided instruction manual before using the alarm.
Store the manual in a safe place for future reference.
Pay particular attention to the safety warnings. Pass
the manual on to any subsequent users of the alarm.
If service is required or you have not received a
Carbon Monoxide Detector user’s manual, please
contact the manufacturer, your dealer, or Airstream
Customer Service.
WARNING
Failure to replace this product by the “REPLACE
BY DATE” printed on the alarm cover may result in
death by Carbon Monoxide poisoning. Replace By
Date is six (6) years from the date of manufacture.
WARNING
Activation of your Carbon Monoxide alarm’s
audible horn indicates the presence of Carbon
Monoxide that can kill you. Leave the area
immediately!
WARNING
This product is intended for use in ordinary, indoor
locations of family living units. It is not designed
to measure compliance with occupational safety
and health administration (OSHA) commercial or
industrial standards. Individuals who are at special
risk from Carbon Monoxide exposure by reason of
age, pregnancy, or medical condition may consider
using warning devices which provide audible and
visual signals for Carbon Monoxide concentration
under 30 ppm. If in doubt, consult your medical
practitioner.
This Carbon Monoxide Detector Is Not
• Designed to detect smoke, re, or any gas other than
Carbon Monoxide.
• To be seen as a substitute for the proper servicing of
fuel-burning appliances.
• To be used on an intermittent basis, or as a portable
alarm for spillage of combustion products from fuelburning appliances.
NOTE
This Carbon Monoxide detector is designed for
indoor use only. Do not expose to rain or moisture.
Do not knock or drop the alarm. Do not open
or tamper with the alarm as this could cause a
malfunction. The detector will not protect against
the risk of Carbon Monoxide poisoning when the
batteries are dead or missing. The alarm will only
indicate the presence of CO gas at the sensor. .
Important Safety Precautions
• Carbon Monoxide is produced by the incomplete
combustion of fuels such as wood, charcoal, coal,
heating oil, parafn, gasoline, natural gas, propane,
butane, etc.
• Ideally, it is recommended that a Carbon Monoxide
detector should be installed in or near every room
that has a fuel burning appliance such as any room
heaters, water heaters, cookers, grills, etc.
• Ensure that the alarm horn can be heard by all those
who are intended to hear it. Seek medical help if it
is suspected that a user of the RV is suffering from
Carbon Monoxide poisoning.
• If the alarm sounds, make sure to investigate the
problem. Ignoring the alarm may result in sickness,
injury, or death. (CO may be present even if nothing
is seen or smelled by the user.)
• Room spaces should be well ventilated when
household cleaning supplies are used as these may
cause a false alarm.
• Alarm should be tested once per week. If further
details are required, which do not appear in this
manual, contact BRK Brands Inc. First Alert.
What Is Carbon Monoxide
Carbon Monoxide (CO) is a highly poisonous gas that
is released when fuels are burned. It is invisible, has
no smell, and is therefore, very difcult to detect with
the human senses. Under normal conditions, in a room
where fuel-burning appliances are well maintained and
correctly ventilated, the amount of CO released into the
room by appliances is not dangerous.
These fuels include: wood, coal, charcoal, oil, natural
gas, gasoline, kerosene, and propane. Common
appliances are often sources of CO. If they are not
properly maintained, are improperly ventilated, or
malfunction, CO levels can rise quickly. CO is a real
danger in air-tight trailers with added insulation, sealed
windows, and other weatherproong that can trap CO
inside.
2-42020 Nest
Page 11
Safety
The following conditions can result in potentially
dangerous CO situations
1. Excessive spillage or reverse-venting of fuelburning appliances caused by outdoor conditions,
such as:
• Wind direction and/or velocity, including high
gusts of wind.
• Heavy air in the vent pipes (cold/humid air with
extended periods between cycles).
• Negative pressure differential resulting from
use of exhaust fans.
• Simultaneous operation of several fuel-burning
appliances competing for limited internal air.
• Vent-pipe connections vibrating loose from
clothes dryers, furnaces, or water heaters.
• Obstructions in or unconventional vent-
pipe designs which can amplify the above
situations.
2. Extended use of un-vented fuel burning devices.
3. Temperature increase that can trap exhaust gases
near the ground.
heart and lung failure. Exposure to carbon monoxide
can cause brain damage and/or death.
WARNING
Many causes of reported CARBON MONOXIDE
POISONING indicate that while victims are aware
that they are not well, they become so disoriented
that they are unable to save themselves by either
exiting the area or calling for assistance. Also
young children and pets may be the rst to be
affected.
WARNING
Liquid Propane Gas (LPG) Detector
This detector has a seven year life; see end-of-life
notication in LPG detector manual. Please read entire
detector manual before operating unit.
The LPG detector is located in the galley area. LPG
is a mixture of gases produced and sold commercially
as a fuel for heating and cooking appliances. LPG is
highly ammable and, as a result, can be explosive
if ignited under certain circumstances. LPG is
heavier than air and, if conned in a closed space,
will accumulate close to the oor. The LPG detector
is designed to alarm at less than 25% of the legal
explosive limit. It will provide a visual and audible alarm
by sounding an alarm every 5 seconds and illuminating
the red LED.
Your LPG detector is wired directly to your trailer
battery and incorporates a 1-amp, in-line fuse. It has no
internal battery backup. In normal stand-by mode, the
LED indicator will be green.
Low Voltage
The operating voltage for the detector is 12 VDC. The
actual voltage supplied to the detector in a recreational
vehicle may drop below the minimum 8 VDC. The
detector provides the user with a low voltage warning
before reaching that level and will provide additional
distinct, clear warnings and alarms after the 8 VDC
level is reached. However, if available power supplied
to the unit is below the operating voltage of 8 VDC,
the detector will not detect gas or provide protection
against dangerous levels of LPG.
Test units used in RVs after the vehicle has been in
storage, before each trip, and once a week while in
use. Failure to test units used in RV’s as described
may remove your protection.
2020 Nest2-5
Page 12
Safety
Detector Test
The Test/Reset button is used to verify proper alarm
function. Executing the test function sounds the alarm
and lights up the red LED. The test will sound the
alarm twice, with four beeps in 1 second, followed by
5 seconds of silence. By pressing the button, you can
verify that the alarm sounds and the LED functions
properly.
WARNING
Activation of this detector indicates the possible
presence of LPG, which can cause an explosion
and/or re, causing serious injury or death. This
normally indicates a leak in the LPG installation
or an LPG appliance. Extinguish all open ames,
open your windows and door, and evacuate the
unit immediately. Do not activate any electrical
switch. Turn off the LPG at your gas tank(s). Do not
re-enter your unit until a qualied repair technician
has corrected the problem and certied the system
as safe.
WARNING
Fire Extinguisher
The re extinguisher should be checked for charge on
a regular basis. Make sure your family, especially the
cook, knows how to release the extinguisher storage
bracket, and how to properly operate the extinguisher.
Check with your local re department for professional
advice on its operation and use if you nd the
directions on the extinguisher unclear. They will be able
and willing to assist you and your family.
Emergency Exits
It is not recommended that the detector be
disconnected from the battery during periods of
storage. There is a small heater on the sensor of
the device that burns away impurities in the air
during periods of normal use. During periods when
power is interrupted, impurities can build up on the
sensor. When power is returned to the detector,
the detector alarm may activate until the impurities
are burned off. This could take a number of hours,
during which time the alarm will be constantly on.
WARNING
Have a qualied technician check your LPG system
annually or if you detect any signs of leaks or
malfunctions.
NOTE
Refer to Section 5 - Interior and Section 6 -
Exterior for additional LPG warnings and safety
information.
Safety should always be a top priority. Ensure that you,
and everyone traveling with you, can operate the main
door and emergency exit window rapidly, without light.
Obviously, your primary exit from your trailer will be
the main cabin door in the rear of Nest. However, if the
main door is blocked and evacuation from the trailer is
necessary, use the emergency escape window. This
window identied by its RED release handle.
1. Remove bug screen from window frame
2. Depress RED-tipped window handle to release
from latch, then pull straight
3. Push handle through frame, window will swing free;
climb out to safety
Plan ahead and consider other means of escape in case
the designated exits are blocked.
WARNING
Window operation should be checked before
each trip and latches lubricated with WD-40® or
equivalent every six months.
2-62020 Nest
Page 13
Section 3
GENERAL INFORMATION
GENERAL INFORMATION . . . . . . . . . . 3-1
LIMITED WARRANTY POLICY . . . . . . 3-2
This Limited Warranty Covers . . . . . . 3-2
Coverage Ends . . . . . . . . . . . . 3-2
Limitation Of Implied Warranties . . . . . 3-2
Disclaimer Of Incidental And Consequential
Damages . . . . . . . . . . . . 3-2
Repair Remedy . . . . . . . . . . . . 3-2
Back-Up Remedy . . . . . . . . . . . 3-2
What Is Not Covered . . . . . . . . . 3-3
Obtaining Warranty Service . . . . . . . 3-4
Events That Discharge Airstream’s Obligations
Under This Limited Warranty . . . . 3-4
Airstream Limited Warranty Excludes . . . 3-4
Normal Wear . . . . . . . . . . 3-4
Accident . . . . . . . . . . . . 3-4
Abuse . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3-5
Chemical Gassing . . . . . . . . 3-5
Exposure . . . . . . . . . . . . 3-5
Overload . . . . . . . . . . . . 3-5
SERVICE . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3-5
Reporting Safety Defects . . . . . . . . 3-6
CAMPING . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3-6
Suggested Pre-Travel Check List . . . . . 3-6
Interior . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3-6
Exterior . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3-6
Trailer Equipment and Accessories . . 3-6
Motoring Essentials . . . . . . . . 3-7
Overnight Stop . . . . . . . . . . . . 3-7
Extended Stay . . . . . . . . . . . . 3-8
Leveling . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3-8
Effects Of Prolonged Occupancy . . . . . 3-8
Tips To Controlling Condensation . . 3-9
Molds . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3-9
Contributing Factors To Mold Growth . 3-9
Inhibiting Mold Growth . . . . . . . 3-9
Waste Water System . . . . . . . . . .3-10
Things Not To Put Into Toilet Or Drains 3-10
Winter Traveling . . . . . . . . . . . .3-10
Safety . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3-11
2020 Nest3-1
Page 14
General Information
Limited Warranty Policy
This Limited Warranty Covers
(i) The rst retail owner and any subsequent owners
(ii) ONLY those portions of a NEW travel trailer not
excluded under the section “What is Not Covered”,
when sold by an authorized dealership and used for
its intended purpose of recreational travel and camp-
ing; and, (iii) ONLY defects in workmanship performed
and/or materials used to assemble those portions
of your travel trailer not excluded under the section
“What is Not Covered”. “Defect” means the failure of
the workmanship performed and/or materials used to
conform with the design and manufacturing specication and tolerances of Airstream. The Limited Warranty
is transferable and the subsequent owner’s warranty
coverage period shall be the unexpired balance of the
original warranty coverage period. A completed copy
of the Warranty Transfer Form must be submitted to
Airstream at the time of resale.
When you request and accept the performance of
warranty repairs under the terms of this Limited
Warranty, you are accepting all terms of this Limited
Warranty, including by way of example, warranty
limitations and disclaimers, the forum selection clause
and the clause reducing the time period when suit must
be led for breach.
If any term of condition in this limited warranty conicts
with your state’s Uniform Commercial Code (“UCC”) as
interpreted by courts within your state, the provisions
of your state’s UCC are varied as allowed for by USS
1-302.
Coverage Ends
36 Months after the rst retail owner rst takes delivery
of the travel trailer from an authorized dealership.
Any action for breach of this warranty or any implied
warranties must be commenced not more than 37
months after breach. Some states do not allow the
reduction of the time when a breach of warranty claim
must be commenced, so the reduction in time when a
breach of warranty claim must be commenced may not
apply to you.
Limitation Of Implied Warranties
Implied warranties arising under applicable law, if
any, including but not limited to implied warranties of
merchantability or tness for a particular purpose, are
hereby limited in duration to the term of this limited
warranty and are limited in scope of coverage to those
portions of the travel trailer covered by this limited
warranty. There are no express warranties or any
implied warranties of merchantability on those portions
of the travel trailer excluded from coverage. There is
no warranty of any nature made by Airstream beyond
that contained in this limited warranty. No person has
authority to enlarge, amend or modify this limited warranty. The dealer is not airstream’s agent. Airstream is
not responsible for any undertaking, representation or
warranty made by any dealer or others beyond those
expressly set forth within this limited warranty. Some
states do not allow limitations on how long an implied
warranty lasts, so the above limitations may not apply
to you.
Disclaimer Of Incidental And Consequential
Damages
Airstream disclaims any and all incidental and consequential damages, including but not limited to expenses such as transportation to and from dealerships
and Airstream repair facilities, loss of time, loss of pay,
loss of use, inconvenience, commercial loss (including but not limited to lost prots), towing charges, bus
fares, vehicle rental, service call charges, gasoline
expenses, incidental charges such as telephone calls
and facsimile transmissions, and expenses for lodging
and moisture damage such as mold and mildew as well
as rust and corrosion. This disclaimer is independent
of any failure of the essential purpose of any warranties provided with the travel trailer, and shall survive
any determination that a warranty failed of its essential
purpose. Some states do not allow the exclusion or
limitation of incidental or consequential damages, so
the above limitation or exclusion may not apply to you.
Repair Remedy
Airstream’s sole and exclusive obligation is to repair
any covered defects discovered within the warranty
coverage period if: (1) within 10 days of your discovery
of a defect you notify Airstream OR an authorized
dealership of the defect; AND (2) you deliver your
travel trailer to Airstream OR an authorized dealership
at your cost and expense.
Back-Up Remedy
If the primary repair remedy fails to successfully
cure any defect after a reasonable number of repair
attempts, your sole and exclusive remedy shall be to
have Airstream pay an independent service shop of
your choice to perform repairs to the defect OR if the
defect is incurable, have Airstream pay diminution in
value damages. The repair remedy and the back-up
remedy must both be exhausted and these remedies
3-22020 Nest
Page 15
General Information
must fail to fulll their essential purpose before you can
seek any legal or equitable relief. This limited warranty
is not a warranty that promises or extends to future
performance because the warranty does not make a
representation on how your travel trailer will perform in
the future but instead represents only what the remedy
will be if a defect exists.
Unless prohibited by state law, repairs will not extend
the time when you must commence a breach of
warranty claim and shall not extend the warranty
coverage period. Any performance of repairs after
the warranty coverage ends OR any performance of
repairs to those portions of your travel trailer excluded
from coverage shall be considered “good will” repairs.
Warranty repairs should be expected. Airstream
may use new and/or remanufactured parts and/or
components of substantially equal quality to complete
a repair. Damage to interior or exterior surfaces, trim,
upholstery and other appearance items may occur
at the factory during assembly, during delivery of the
travel trailer to your selling dealer or on the selling
dealer’s lot. Normally, any damage is detected and
corrected at the factory or by the selling dealer during
the inspection process. If you discover any damage
when you take delivery of your travel trailer, you MUST
notify your dealer OR Airstream within 10 days of
the date of purchase to have damage repaired at no
cost to you. Minor adjustments, such as adjustments
to the interior or exterior doors, drawers, latches
will be performed at no cost to you by your selling
dealer during the rst 90 days of warranty coverage;
thereafter, such adjustments are your exclusive
responsibility as normal maintenance.
What Is Not Covered
1. Tires, batteries, stereo, television, range/stove,
furnace, refrigerator, air conditioner, toilet, water
heater, microwave, generator, glass breakage, and
other materials, parts and components warranted
by persons or entities other than Airstream. Please
refer to the warranties of component manufacturers
for terms and conditions of coverage;
2. Accessories and equipment that are working as
designed, but which you are unhappy because of
the design
3. Any part or component of the travel trailer that was
not manufactured or installed by Airstream;
4. Normal deterioration due to wear or exposure,
including but not limited to upholstery, ooring rust,
corrosion, oxidation, and cosmetic blemishes;
5. Normal maintenance and service items, including
but not limited to light bulbs, fuses, lubricants,
sealants and seals, door adjustments, and awning
tension;
6. After-market equipment or accessories installed on
the travel trailer after completion of manufacture
by Airstream, or any defects or damage caused by
such items;
7. Travel trailers not purchased through an authorized
dealer of Airstream and travel trailers purchased
directly or indirectly through auction, salvage,
repossession, or other non-customary sale means;
8. Any travel trailer used other than for temporary
recreation purposes, including, but not limited
to, use of the travel trailer for residential, rental,
business and commercial purpose or any travel
trailer purchased by, registered by, or titled in the
name of a business association (such as any LLC,
corporation, or partnership). If the travel trailer
owner or user les a tax form claiming a business
or commercial tax benet or income related to the
travel trailer, it shall be irrefutable that the travel
trailer has been used for rental, commercial or
business purposes.
9. Defects or damage caused by, in whole or in
part, or in any way related to: Accidents, misuse
(including off-road use), or negligence; Failure
to comply with the instructions set forth in any
owner’s manual provided with the travel trailer;
Alteration or modication of the travel trailer
except such alterations or modications approved
in writing by Airstream; Acts of God or other
environmental conditions, such as lightning,
hail, salt causing rust, or other chemicals in the
atmosphere; De-icing agents or other chemicals
applied to the travel trailer; Failure to properly
maintain or service the travel trailer, including
but not limited to the maintenance of lubricants,
sealants, and seals; Condensation and the results
of condensation including water damage and
the growth of mold or mildew. Mold and mildew
are natural growths given certain environmental
conditions and are not covered by the terms of this
Limited Warranty; The addition of weight to the
travel trailer that causes the total weight to exceed
applicable weight ratings, or addition of weight
causing improper distribution of the weight of the
travel trailer; Failure to seek and obtain repairs in
a timely manner; Failure to use reasonable efforts
to mitigate damage caused by defects; Failure
to properly ventilate the travel trailer; Improper
2020 Nest3-3
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General Information
electric power supply or improper travel trailer
hookup to other facilities; Acts or omissions of any
person or entity other than Airstream. (Note: An
irrefutable presumption arises that the travel trailer
has been used for commercial and/or business
purposes if the travel trailer owner or user les
a tax form claiming any business or commercial
tax benet related to the travel trailer, or if the
travel trailer is purchased, registered or titled in a
business name.)
Obtaining Warranty Service
In order to obtain warranty service under this Limited
Warranty, the owner must do all of the following:
1. Owner and dealer representative must complete
and return the Customer Performance Checkout
within 10 days from delivery of the trailer,
2. Notify Airstream or one of its authorized,
independent dealers of any claimed defect within
the warranty period or 10 days thereafter,
3. Provide notication of a defect within 10 days of
discovery of that defect, and
4. Promptly return the travel trailer to an authorized
Airstream dealer or Airstream for repairs.
If you believe a defect covered by this Limited Warranty
still exists after an attempted repair by an authorized
Airstream dealer, you must contact Airstream at the
following address, specifying:
1. The complete serial number of the travel trailer,
2. The date of original purchase and the date of
original delivery,
3. The name of the selling dealer, and
4. The nature of the problem and the steps or service
which have been performed.
Airstream, INC.
428 West Pike Street
P.O. Box 629
Jackson Center, Ohio 45334-0629
Attention: Owner Relations Department
Airstream may direct you to an authorized Airstream
dealer, or may request that you bring your travel trailer
to the Airstream factory in Jackson Center, Ohio for
repairs.
Airstream does not control the scheduling of repairs
at its authorized Airstream dealers, and repairs at the
Airstream factory may not be immediately available.
Therefore, you may encounter delays in scheduling
repairs and/or completion of repairs. All costs
associated with transporting the travel trailer for any
warranty service shall be the sole responsibility of the
owner.
Events That Discharge Airstream’s Obligations
Under This Limited Warranty
Misuse or neglect, accidents, unauthorized alteration,
failure to provide reasonable and necessary
maintenance (see Owner’s Manual), damage caused
by off road use, collision, re, theft, vandalism,
explosions, overloading in excess of rated capacities,
and use of the travel trailer for commercial, business,
or rental purposes shall discharge Airstream from any
express or implied warranty obligation to repair any
resulting defect.
Legal remedies: exclusive jurisdiction for deciding
legal disputes relating to alleged breach of warranty or
representations of any nature rests in the courts within
the state of manufacture, which is Ohio. Also, this
limited warranty shall be interpreted and construed in
accordance with the laws of the state of Ohio. Any and
all claims, controversies, and causes of action arising
out of or relating to this limited warranty, whether
sounding contract, tort or statute, shall be governed
by the laws of the State of Ohio, including its statute of
limitations, without giving effect to any conict of law
rule that would result in the application of the laws of a
different jurisdiction.
Airstream Limited Warranty Excludes
Normal Wear
Items such as curtains, upholstery, oor coverings,
window, door, and vent seals will show wear or may
even wear out within the 3-year warranty period,
depending upon the amount of usage, weather, and
atmospheric conditions.
Accident
We strongly urge our dealers and customers to inspect
the trailer upon receipt of delivery for any damage
caused by accident while being delivered to the dealer,
or while it is on the dealer’s lot. Damage of this nature
becomes the dealer or customer’s responsibility upon
acceptance of delivery, unless Airstream is notied
and the person making the delivery veries the
damage. Glass breakage, whether obviously struck or
mysterious, is always accidental and covered by most
insurance policies.
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General Information
Abuse
Lack of customer care and/or improper maintenance
will result in early failure for which Airstream cannot be
held responsible.
Chemical Gassing
Chemical gassing is not a “Defect” in your recreational
vehicle and is not covered by the Limited Warranty.
Please follow the recommendations in this manual to
address this concern.
Exposure
Not unlike a car, the steel parts of a trailer can and will
rust if subjected to prolonged exposure to moisture,
salt air, or corrosive air-borne pollutants without
repainting. Aluminum oxidizes when unprotected
under similar conditions, and renery chemicals of a
sulfurous nature are harmful to nishes if not washed
off periodically. Extremely hot or direct sunlight will
deteriorate rubber and fade curtains and upholstery.
Conditions of this nature, although they may be normal
for the area, are beyond Airstream’s control and
become the responsibility of the owner.
It is the responsibility of the owner to take such
preventative measures as are necessary to maintain
the exterior caulking and sealer of your unit. It is the
responsibility of the owner to use reasonable, prudent
care to prevent foreseeable secondary damage from
rain, plumbing leaks, and the natural accumulation
of moisture in your unit, such as a delaminated
oor; stained upholstery, carpeting, or drapes, mold
formation and growth, furniture damage, etc. Mold is a
natural growth, given certain environmental conditions,
and is not covered by the terms of the Limited
Warranty.
Overload
Damage due to loading, either beyond capacity or to
cause improper towing because of improper balance, is
beyond Airstream’s responsibility. The Airstream trailer
is engineered to properly handle the gross vehicle load
rating on the certication label. Load distribution has
a denite effect upon the towing characteristics and
attitudes of the trailer. Level hitch installations are a
necessity, and very important on a tandem axle trailer.
There are limits to the amount of load that can be
safely transported, depending upon speed and road
conditions, and reasonable cause to believe these
factors have been exceeded could void the Airstream
warranty. For additional information on the loading
of your trailer, consult this Owner’s Manual or gross
vehicle weight rating plate.
The axle is manufactured to a tolerance of 1-degree
camber and 1/8 in. toe-in. These tolerances will only
change if the trailer is subjected to abuse, such as
dropping off a sharp berm, striking a curb, or hitting
a deep hole in the road. Such damage could be
considered as resulting from an accident, of which risks
are not covered under the warranty. Abnormal tire wear
and/or wheel alignment resulting from such damage is
not covered under the terms of the warranty.
Service
Before leaving the factory, every vital part of the trailer
is tested for performance. Each test is signed and
certied by an inspector. After the trailer arrives on
your dealer’s lot, all vital parts and systems are again
tested. When you take delivery of your new trailer, you
will receive a complete check out.
At that time, a specied list of performance checks
on your trailer equipment will be conducted, and
any deciencies you have experienced since taking
delivery will be corrected.
Please contact your dealer if your trailer needs service.
Major service under your Airstream Limited Warranty is
available through our nationwide network of Airstream
Dealer Service Centers. An up-to-date list of Dealer
Service Centers will be sent to you with an Owner’s
Survey shortly after your trailer is delivered. Our web
site, www.Airstream.com also has a dealer locator on
it. This list is current as of the date of this publication.
Occasionally, dealerships change, or new dealers are
added who may not appear on this list. For this reason,
it is suggested that you contact your local dealer from
time to time for an updated list. Additional copies are
available if you need them. All centers operate on an
appointment basis for the utmost efciency.
When you require service for your trailer from the
Airstream Factory Service Center, or a Certied Dealer
Service Center, please contact the service manager
for an appointment, and inform them if you are unable
to keep the appointment date, or wish to change it.
Service may be arranged at the Factory Service Center
by contacting the Service Coordinator at:
Airstream Factory Service Center,
428 West Pike Street
P.O. Box 629
Jackson Center, Ohio 45334-0629
Phone: (937) 596-6111 or (877) 596-6111
2020 Nest3-5
Page 18
General Information
Reporting Safety Defects
If you believe that your vehicle has a defect which
could cause a crash or could cause injury or death, you
should immediately inform the National Highway Trafc
Safety Administration (NHTSA), in addition to notifying
Airstream, Inc.
If NHTSA receives similar complaints, it may open an
investigation, and if it nds that a safety defect exists
in a group of vehicles, it may order a recall and remedy
campaign. However, NHTSA cannot become involved
in individual problems between you, your dealer, or
Airstream, Inc.
To contact NHTSA, you may either call the Vehicle
Safety Hotline toll-free at 1-888-327-4236 (TTY: 1-800424-9153), go to http://www.safercar.gov, or write to:
Administrator,
NHTSA,
1200 New Jersey Avenue, S.E.,
Washington, DC 20590.
You can also obtain other information about motor
vehicle safety from http://www.safercar.gov.
6. Hold down or stack securely all loose, hard, and
sharp objects.
7. Fasten sliding and foldette doors.
8. Drain toilet bowl.
Exterior
1. Disconnect and stow the electrical hookup cord,
and the sewer (ush out) and water hookup hoses.
2. Turn off gas at LP tanks.
3. Retract stabilizing jacks.
4. Check hitch for proper attachment.
5. Check safety chains and breakaway switch cable.
6. Fully retract hitch jack. Remove and stow jack
stand or wood block.
7. Check clearance and stoplights.
8. Check lug nuts.
9. Check tires for correct pressure.
10. Adjust tow vehicle mirrors.
11. Pull forward about 50 ft, test brakes, and check site
for forgotten objects and cleanliness.
Trailer Equipment and Accessories
1. Water hose, 5/8 in. high pressure, tasteless,
odorless, non-toxic, (2 25-ft. sections)
2. Y connection - water hose
3. Sewer hose with clamp
4. Drain cap with hose drain
5. Holding tank cleaner and deodorizer
6. Power cord adapter, 30-amp capacity
7. 30-ft. electric cord, 30-amp capacity
8. Woodblocks for leveling
9. Wheel chocks
10. Hydraulic jacks
11. Cross-type lug wrench and a torque wrench
12. Quality tire gauge
13. Emergency road warning triangle
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.
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Page 19
General Information
Motoring Essentials
1. Display the tow vehicle and trailer registration
properly.
2. Carry driver’s license.
3. In Canada, bring along a non-residence liability
insurance card and your birth certicate.
4. In Mexico, you must have special auto insurance.
5. Carry an extra set of the ignition and truck keys in
a separate pocket, or in your wallet.
6. Keep an operating ashlight with fresh batteries in
the glove compartment.
7. Pack the trunk so that you can reach the tools and
spare tire without completely unpacking.
8. Keep sharp or hard articles securely packed,
wherever they may be.
9. Do not pack things in the passenger seating area.
You will need the maximum space for comfort.
10. Wear easy wash, drip-dry traveling clothes.
11. Do not make your vacation trips a mileage
marathon. Stop and relax frequently.
12. Carry a rst-aid kit.
13. Carry your pet’s dish, food, leash, and health and
registration papers.
Overnight Stop
Airstream owners have parked virtually in every place
imaginable, from lling stations to farmlands. In time,
you’ll develop a knack for spying wonderful little
roadside locations by turning off the main highway and
exploring.
There are many modern parks, including State, County,
and Federal parks with good facilities where you
might obtain hookups of electrical, water, and sewer
connections. Directories are published which describe
in detail these parks and tell what is available in the
way of services and hookups.
On a longer trip, when you have stayed where sewer
connections and utility hookups were not available, it
will be necessary for you to stop from time to time to
dispose of the waste in the holding tank and replenish
the water supply. Many truck stops and gas stations,
chain and individually owned, have installed sanitary
dumping stations for just this purpose. Booklets are
available that list these dumping stations.
When stopping for the night, your Airstream is built
to be safely parked in any spot that is relatively level
and where the ground his rm. Your facilities are with
you. You are self-contained. Unless the tow vehicle
is needed for transportation, it is not necessary to
unhitch.
WARNING
At each campsite, make sure you have not parked
in such a manner as to block the operation of the
escape window by being too close to trees, fences,
or other impediments. Scenic views are one reason
for traveling, but don’t park so the beautiful lake or
steep cliff is just outside your escape window.
Choose the most level parking spot possible.
Stabilizing jacks or blocks may not be required for
an overnight stay. However, if you put the jack pad
on the hitch jack and run the hitch jack down to take
the weight off the tow vehicle’s springs, it will provide
some stability. If you must park on a slope, park facing
downhill. It is easier to level the trailer this way.
All you need to do to enjoy the self-contained luxury
of your Airstream is to turn on the LPG and light any
appliance pilot lights.
Before moving on, check your campsite, both for
cleanliness and also, to be sure you haven’t left
anything behind. Turn off the gas supply and make
sure everything is properly stowed. Use your pre-travel
check list and you are ready for more travel adventure.
On overnight or weekend trips, chances are you will
not use up the capacity of the sewage holding tank,
deplete the water supply, or run down the batteries that
supply the 12-volt current.
2020 Nest3-7
Page 20
General Information
Extended Stay
Making a long trip in your Airstream is not very different
from making a weekend excursion. Since everything
you need is right at hand, you are at home wherever
you go. When packing for an extended trip, take
everything you need, but only what you need.
When you plan to stay in the same place for several
days, weeks, or months, you will want your trailer to
be as level and steady as possible. Check the attitude
with a small spirit level set on the inside work counter
or the trailer hitch A-frame. If a correction is necessary,
you must level from side-to-side rst. This can be done
easily by backing the trailer up onto one or more 2 x 6
boards. We do not recommend placing tires in a hole
for leveling.
Leveling
Level from front to rear: 1) block or chock the wheels
to keep the trailer from rolling; 2) place the jack pad
or caster wheel under the hitch jack; 3) disconnect
the hitch, safety cables, breakaway switch cable and
wiring harness from the tow vehicle; 4) adjust the jack
up or down until you are level. Then use the stabilizing
jacks at all four corners, as shown in the diagram, to
eliminate the natural spring action of the axles.
WARNING
Stabilizing jacks should only be used to stabilize
trailer. Do not use jacks to lift the trailer.
WARNING
Whenever the trailer must be lifted with a jack, as
when changing a tire, always place the lifting jack
under the main frame rail. A label is provided to
indicate the proper position for the jack. Never use
stabilizing jacks to lift the trailer.
Refer to Section 8 maintenance for further information
on jacking.
Effects Of Prolonged Occupancy
Your trailer was designed primarily for recreational use
and short-term occupancy. If you expect to occupy the
trailer for an extended period, be prepared to deal with
condensation and the humid conditions that may be
encountered.
Moisture can condense on the inside surfaces of the
trailer during cold weather when relative humidity of the
interior air is high. This condition is increased because
the insulated walls of a recreation vehicle are much
thinner than house walls. Also, the relatively small
volume and tight, compact construction of modern
recreational vehicles means that the normal living
activities of even a few occupants will lead to rapid
moisture saturation. Estimates indicate that a family
of four can vaporize up to three gallons of water daily
through breathing, cooking, bathing, and washing.
Unless the water vapor is carried outside by ventilation,
or condensed by a dehumidier, it will condense on
the inside of the windows and walls as moisture, or
in cold weather, as frost or ice. It may also condense
out of sight, within the walls or the ceiling, where it will
manifest itself as warped or stained panels.
Appearance of these conditions may indicate a serious
problem. When you recognize the signs of excessive
moisture and condensation in the trailer, action should
be taken to minimize their effects.
3-82020 Nest
Page 21
General Information
Tips To Controlling Condensation
Allow excess moisture to escape to the outside when:
• Bathing, washing dishes, hair drying, etc
• Laundering, and using appliances and non-vented
gas burners
• Cooking (always use the stove vent hood)
Avoid dead air spaces by:
• Using a fan to keep air circulating.
• Leaving closet and cabinet doors partially open.
To help alleviate cold weather condensation:
• Keep the temperature as reasonably cool during cold
weather as possible.
• Allow your trailer to breathe; do not make it airtight.
• Allow some warm air to be removed and some cool
outside air in.
• Do not allow the furnace to recycle humid interior air,
and provide reasonable ventilation.
In hot weather, starting the air conditioner early
will help remove excess humidity from the air while
lowering temperatures.
NOTE
Your trailer is not designed, nor intended, for
permanent housing. Use of this product for
long-term or permanent occupancy may lead
to premature deterioration of structure, interior
nishes, fabrics, carpeting, and drapes. Damage
or deterioration due to long-term occupancy may
not be considered normal, and may, under the
terms of the warranty, constitute misuse, abuse,
or neglect, and may therefore reduce the warranty
protection.
Molds
Molds are microscopic organisms that naturally
occur in virtually every environment, indoors and
out. Outdoors, mold growth is important in the
decomposition of plants. Indoors, mold growth is
unfavorable. Left unchecked, molds break down
natural materials, such as wood products and fabrics.
Protect your investment by understanding the potential
risks that mold imposes.
Contributing Factors To Mold Growth
For mold growth to occur, temperatures, indoor or
outdoors, must be between 40° and 100°F, and must
also have a source of moisture, such as humidity,
standing water, damp materials, etc. Indoors, the most
rapid growth occurs with warm and humid conditions.
Inhibiting Mold Growth
By controlling relative humidity, the growth of mold and
mildew can be inhibited. In warm climates, use of the
air conditioner will reduce the relative humidity. Vents
are located in the bathing and cooking areas. Constant
use of these vents is advised during food preparation
and bathing, even during colder weather. Additionally,
opening a window during these activities will assist in
ventilation. In extremely humid conditions, the use of a
dehumidier can be helpful.
Frequent use of your trailer, or cleaning regularly,
are important preventive measures. Additionally, any
spills should be wiped up quickly and dried as soon
as possible. Avoid leaving damp items lying about.
On safe surfaces, use mold or mildew-killing cleaning
products. Check sealants regularly, and reseal when
necessary to avoid water leaks. Proper preventive
maintenance to the trailer and its accessories, as
described both in this manual and in accompanying
literature, will provide the best protection to the trailer.
For more information concerning controlling moisture in
the trailer, read Tips to Controlling Condensation in this
section.
NOTE
If using a dehumidier, please read and follow all
manufacturer instructions and recommendations
for the use and cleaning of the dehumidier.
2020 Nest3-9
Page 22
General Information
Waste Water System
The main parts of the waste water system are the
toilet, dual holding tanks, and tank dump valves (See
Section 8 - Maintenance for dump valve information).
The system is designed to provide complete selfcontained toilet facilities, while on the road or parked,
without being connected to a sewage line. It may also
be used in the stationary position while connected to a
sewage hose.
Keep the dump valves closed with either method and
empty the tanks when they are nearly full. The idea is
to send a large volume of water through the tanks and
hose at the same time to oat solids away.
After the sewage tank has been emptied, close the
gate valves and put approximately ve gallons of water
in the sewage holding tank using the black tank ush
inlet. This will spray the interior of the tank with water
and help prevent solids from building up in the sewage
holding tank. The addition of a deodorizing agent like
Aqua-Kem® will help prevent odors.
Should you ever have a buildup of solids, close the
valves, ll the tanks about 3/4 full with fresh water,
drive a distance to agitate the solids, and drain the
tanks.
Things Not To Put Into Toilet Or Drains
• Facial tissues (they do not dissolve like toilet paper).
• Automotive antifreeze, ammonia, alcohols, or
acetone.
• Table scraps or other solids that may clog the drains.
Winter Traveling
Traveling in sub-freezing temperatures will require
certain precautions to protect the plumbing system
and your personal belongings from being damaged by
freezing.
Whenever possible, the heat should be kept set to a
constant temperature. It is easier for the furnace to
keep a constant room temperature than allow the trailer
temperature to drop to 50°F, then attempt to raise it to
room temperature.
The furnace on Nest models is ducted to provide heat
to the below oor water tanks and plumbing to prevent
freezing.
Some states do not allow LPG to be turned on while
moving. While traveling in these states, simply use
your common sense. How cold is it? How long will
it be before you can turn the heat back on? Is the
temperature dropping or rising? Remember, when
towing at 50 MPH, the wind chill factor will cause the
interior of the trailer to cool much faster than a parked
trailer.
When parked in sub-freezing temperatures, make sure
to keep a full supply of LPG and plug into a 120-volt
power source whenever possible.
Leave cabinet doors, wardrobes, and bed doors
partially open to allow warm air to circulate around
plumbing lines and xtures. Insulate and/or wrap your
exterior water lines with heat tape.
NOTE
Drain and winterize all models if the water systems
are not being used during winter traveling. Refer
to Section 8 - Maintenance in this manual for
winterizing instructions.
3-102020 Nest
Page 23
Safety
As always, safety should be a top priority. Ensure that
you, and everyone traveling with you, can operate the
main door and emergency exit window rapidly, without
light. Contemplate other means of escape in case the
designated exits are blocked.
The escape windows(s) are identied by their red
release handles. Lift up on both latches to release the
escape window. Push out on the glass and it will swing
clear.
WARNING
The window operation should be checked before
each trip and the latches lubricated with WD-40® or
an equivalent lubricant every six months.
WARNING
Read the directions on the re extinguisher
carefully. If you have any doubts as to its
operation, you and your family should practice,
then replace or recharge the extinguisher. Your
local re department will be able to assist you and
answer any questions.
General Information
WARNING
Don’t smoke inside the trailer. Keep matches out of
reach of small children. Don’t clean with ammable
material. Keep ammable material away from open
ame. Always shut off the LPG gas at the bottles
when fueling a tow vehicle.
We have all heard the above warnings many times,
yet the situation or occurrences they discuss are still
among the leading causes of res.
Safety information concerning the LPG system of your
trailer is located in Section 6 - Exterior of this manual.
The UBW and NCC weights listed in the Specication
Chart are for the base unit with LP and batteries
included.
Gross Vehicular Weight Rating (GVWR) is the
maximum permissible weight of this trailer when fully
loaded. It includes all weight at the trailer axle(s) and
coupler.
375375
Specication Tags
For precise cargo capacity, refer to the Cargo-Carrying
Capacity tag on the inside of the screen door. The
WEIGHT OF CARGO SHOULD NEVER EXCEED
numbers shown on the tag, which is the maximum
weight of cargo you can load and carry in your specic
trailer as built with its options.
Located on the front roadside of your trailer are the Tire
and Loading, and Vehicle Manufacturing tags.
The Tire and Loading information tag lists the Size and
Cold Ination Pressure of the tires on your vehicle, the
weight of your trailer as manufactured, and the GVWR.
The Vehicle Manufacturing tag lists the size of tires
and wheel rims, Maximum Cold Ination pressures, the
Vehicle Identication Number (VIN), and Gross Axle
ratings (GAWR).
Measuring Hitch Ball Height
The proper height will vary according to the weight you
carry and the tires you use. However, checking the
height on your trailer is relatively easy:
1. With trailer parked on fairly level ground, measure
from ground to bottom of frame, front and rear.
2. Adjust front jack until measurements are equal.
3. Now, measure from ground to the inside top of the
ball coupler. This gure is the hitch height. The
hitch ball is then usually set 1/2 to 1 in. higher,
according to the spring rate of your tow vehicle, to
allow for it to settle when the trailer is hitched up.
Tire Size with Maximum Ination Pressure
Cold
• ST235/80R16E — 80psi (Endurance)
Unit Base Weight (UBW) is the dry weight of the base
unit without options.
Net Carrying Capacity (NCC) is equal to GVWR minus
UBW. Gross Axle Weight Rating (GAWR), is the value
specied as the load-carrying capacity of a single axle
system, as measured at the tire-ground interfaces.
2020 Nest4-3
Page 28
Floor Plans And Specications
NOTES
2020 Nest4-4
Page 29
Section 5
INTERIOR
INTERIOR . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 5-1
GENERAL INFORMATION AND CLEANING . 5-2
Upholstery . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 5-2
Interior Wall Fabric . . . . . . . . . . . 5-2
Draperies . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 5-2
Cabinetry . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 5-2
Counter and Tabletops . . . . . . . . . 5-2
Sink . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 5-2
Vinyl Flooring . . . . . . . . . . . . . 5-2
Wet Bath Shower Stall . . . . . . . . . 5-3
Dinette . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 5-3
Lighting and Switches . . . . . . . . . 5-3
Bluetooth® LED Lights . . . . . . . . . 5-3
Storage Tips . . . . . . . . . . . . . 5-5
PLUMBING . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 5-5
Water System (Self-Contained) . . . . . . 5-5
Water Pump . . . . . . . . . . . . . 5-6
12-Volt Power Circuits . . . . . . . . . 5-8
Converter Operation . . . . . . . . . . 5-8
120-Volt AC Panel Board . . . . . . . . 5-9
Fuses and Breakers . . . . . . . . . . 5-9
Breakers . . . . . . . . . . . . 5-9
12 VDC Fuses . . . . . . . . . . 5-9
REVERSE Polarity Fuses . . . . . 5-9
Automatic Micro-Controller Operation . . . 5-9
120-Volt Electrical System . . . . . . . 5-9
City Power . . . . . . . . . . . 5-9
Converter . . . . . . . . . . . .5-10
Ground Fault Circuit Interrupter
(GFCI) . . . . . . . . . .5-10
GFCI Breaker Test . . . . . . . .5-10
Television and Internet . . . . . . . . . 5-11
Solar Capable . . . . . . . . . . . . 5-11
APPLIANCES . . . . . . . . . . . . .5-11
Draining System . . . . . . . . . . . 5-6
Fresh Water Lines and Tanks . . . . 5-6
Drain and Waste System . . . . . . 5-6
Toilet . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 5-6
Deodorizers . . . . . . . . . . . 5-6
Faucets . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 5-7
Galley Faucet . . . . . . . . . . 5-7
Wet Bath Wand . . . . . . . . . 5-7
Faucet Cleaning and Care . . . . . 5-7
ELECTRICAL . . . . . . . . . . . . . 5-7
Battery/12-Volt System Information . . . . 5-7
Battery Disconnect Switch . . . . . . . . 5-7
Converter . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 5-8
2020 Nest5-1
Maintenance . . . . . . . . . . . . .5-11
Air Conditioner . . . . . . . . . . . . 5-11
Thermostat . . . . . . . . . . . . . .5-12
Exhaust Fans . . . . . . . . . . . .5-12
High Volume Roof Vent . . . . . .5-12
Operation . . . . . . . . . . . .5-12
Cleaning Instructions . . . . . . .5-12
Furnace . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .5-13
Microwave Ovens . . . . . . . . . . .5-13
Range . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .5-13
Refrigerator . . . . . . . . . . . . .5-13
SeeLevel II Monitor Panel . . . . . . . .5-13
Water Heater . . . . . . . . . . . . .5-14
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Interior
General Information and Cleaning
The interior of all Airstream trailers has been designed
for comfort, convenience, durability, and appearance.
How you use it and how you take care of it, naturally,
depends on you. However, if you learn to operate
the interior components, and take care of them and
the trailer properly, this knowledge will add to your
pleasure, as well as the long life of your trailer.
Upholstery
Nest features high-quality “Dolce” cushion fabric
by Spradling. This fabric is then nished with Ag
Silverguard/Silver Ion Technology to help diminish
odor, promote freshness, and extend the life cycle of
the product by attacking destructive microorganisms.
However, should the need arise, Airstream
recommends that all fabric materials be professionally
dry-cleaned.
NOTE
Never remove cushion covers for separate dry
cleaning or washing. Any tumble cleaning method
can destroy the backing, and/or shrink or otherwise
damage upholstery fabric.
WARNING
Keep your furniture and family safe from res
caused by careless smoking. Do not smoke when
drowsy. Remove immediately any glowing ash
or a lighted cigarette that falls onto furniture.
Smoldering smoking material can cause
upholstered furniture res.
Cabinetry
The cabinets are made of a high-pressure laminate
and can be cleaned with soap and water, or you can
use a common solvent on tough spots. Do not use
abrasive cleaners since they could scratch the surface.
Counter and Tabletops
The counters and tabletops can be cleaned with soap
and water or you can use a common solvent on tough
spots. Do not use abrasive cleaners since they could
scratch the surface. A protective pad or trivet should
always be used under hot utensils or pans.
Sink
Cleaning can be accomplished using a mild liquid
detergent on a soft cloth. A complete homeowners’
guide for your sink is supplied in your owner’s packet.
Please read these instructions before use.
Vinyl Flooring
Use a soft broom to sweep the oor. A vacuum cleaner
may damage the ooring, especially the type that use
beater bars. In most cases, a clean damp cloth or mop
will sufce to clean dirty ooring. When necessary, a
solution of mild detergent or domestic oor cleaning
emulsion can be used to clean the ooring.
Do not use a wire brush or nylon scouring pads,
furniture polish, spirit-based polish, powder or liquid
abrasive cleaners, or bleach or other strong detergents.
Clean scuffs, dirt and spillages as soon as possible.
Rubber backing on doormats may result in yellow
discoloration of the oor immediately beneath. Choose
a natural ber mat.
Interior Wall Fabric
Nest’s interior walls feature Revolution Performance®
fabrics. These can be cleaned by washing with any
mild non-abrasive soap or detergent. Do not use
a harsh brush. Cleaning should be followed by a
thorough clean water rinse. Do not over soak. Allow to
dry thoroughly.
Draperies
Remove the draperies by unsnapping them from the
wall, removing a screw or pop rivet from the end of the
curtain track, and sliding them out. The pop rivets are
removed by drilling through the head with a 1/8 in. drill
bit.
For spirit-based products such as shoe polish,
solvents,hair dye, and permanent marker pens wipe
up spots and marks as quickly as possible. This also
applies to mustard and strongly colored foodstuffs.
Corrosive substances such as acid and alkaline
solutions can damage the surface of the oor. Clean up
any spills quickly and carefully avoiding direct contact
with the substance. Wear protective clothing such as
gloves when doing so.
Bitumen/tar from freshly resurfaced or melted roads
and pathways, and some inexpensive rubber shoe and
slipper soles can cause stains. The above materials
are likely to cause damage but are not considered
restrictive.
NOTE
All drapery materials and mattress covers must be
professionally dry-cleaned.
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Wet Bath Shower Stall
To clean your berglass shower stall unit, use warm
water and one of the stronger liquid detergents. Do not
use abrasive cleaners as they may scratch and dull the
surface of your unit. Stubborn stains can be removed
with solvents such as turpentine, paint thinner, or
acetone. Restore dulled areas by rubbing with an
automotive type liquid cleaner, then, put the soft glow
back into your unit with a light application of liquid wax.
CAUTION
Applying wax to the base of the shower oor is
not recommended, as this could create an unsafe
surface.
Dinette
On the U-shape dinette oor plan, the dinette converts
to a bed. Lift the tabletop off the table support post.
Remove post and store in wardrobe closet. Drop
tabletop between benches and move seat backrests
from the perimeter walls onto the table area to
complete the conversion. Reverse this process to reassemble the dinette table.
The Front Bed model has storage behind the dinette
cushions and under the dinette seat.
Bluetooth® LED Lights
Additional information is located in your Owner’s
Packet.
• The Light Switch is a black rocker switch located on
wall opposite of galley and will operate light after
Bluetooth connection is established.
• Features are controlled with the app available on
both Android or IOS platforms.
NOTE
The battery disconnect must be on for power to the
wall switch. The power button on the wall switch
must be on for functions to operate within the LED
Nest features a variety of lighting options inside and
outside of the cabin. Lighting over the lounge, galley,
side-mounted sofa or pantry, wardrobe and under-bed
storage are switched at the xture. Lighting for the
all other light sources are controlled by wall-mounted
switches.
The water pump is powered by a switch on the
SeeLevel II monitor panel, the water heater is
powered by a switch in the control panel area under
the refrigerator, and the A/C unit and furnace are both
controlled by the thermostat.
2. Open App: Turn on the Bluetooth on your phone or
tablet and open the app.
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3. Find Device: Once you open the app you will need
to select “Create a Mesh Network”. This will allow
you to to the controller. If it does not connect right
away you may need to turn power off to the wall
switch and turn it back on. You can also Customize
the name of the controller to make it easier if you
have multiple controllers.
4. Color & Brightness: Click the device you want to
control and it will bring up a screen where you
can adjust the color and brightness. Color can
be adjusted by pushing anywhere on the color
wheel and brightness can be adjusted by sliding
the yellow bar left or right. The white color can be
adjusted by pushing the warm button and clicking
anywhere on the color wheel.If you need to return
to the devices list simply press the lines and dots in
the upper left.
5. Timer: The timer feature allows you to set the lights
to turn of or off at a certain time.
6. Function: There are many effects preloaded on the
app from single color fades to multi-color fades.
You can also select the speed of the fade by sliding
the yellow bar left or right.
7. Music: The controller has the ability to change the
lights to the beat of music. Push the play button
and select your desired music. Please note, music
must be installed on your phone or tablet, the
controller will not work with streaming programs.
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8. Custom Effects: You can customize your effects by
selecting the color, jumping, strobe, etc.
9. Disco: If you select the microphone option the
lights will change based on the sounds your phone
picks up
Storage Tips
Galley cabinets should have the heaviest items
stored on the bottom and lighter items overhead. After
loading, put skillets and canned goods on the oor or
bottom shelf, and cereals and crackers in the overhead
roof locker. Use unbreakable-type plates and saucers,
and consider storing your dish towels around them.
Clothes hung in wardrobes should be kept on hangers
that snap over the clothes rods to keep them from
bouncing off on rough roads. Try to avoid large bulky
coats. Layers of lighter clothing will usually keep you
warmer, are more versatile, and are easier to store.
WARNING
Keep ammable material away from the furnace.
Plumbing
Water System (Self-Contained)
Fill the water tank by opening the exterior access
door and remove screw cap. A potable water hose
can now be inserted. It is a good idea to let the water
run through the hose for a short time to ush it out.
Experienced RVers usually ll their tanks with “home”
water to avoid strange water that may be distasteful to
them. The amount of water in the tank may be checked
on the Monitor Panel, or you may ll the tank until
water overows out of the ll.
10. Camera: Using the camera feature you are able to
take a picture of a favorite color and the lights will
match that color.
Open the hot side of the galley or lavatory faucet and
turn on the water pump switch located on the monitor
panel. For some time, the open faucet will only sputter.
This is because the water heater is being lled and
air is being pushed out through the lines. Once the
water heater is full, a steady stream of water will
ow from the faucet. Now, open a cold faucet. It will
sputter for a short time, but will soon expel a steady
stream. All other faucets can now be opened until all
air is expelled. Once the system is lled with water
and the faucets closed, the water pump will shut off.
When a faucet is opened, the pump will come back
on automatically. If the faucet is just barely open, it is
normal for the pump to cycle on and off rapidly.
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Water Pump
The water pump switch (monitor panel mounted, see
Appliances in this section) operates the pump. Once
the switch is turned on, the pump will run until the
water pressure reaches about 55 PSI. At this point, an
internal pressure switch will shut it off. When a faucet is
opened, the water pressure will drop and the pump will
start to run again.
As a general rule, the water pump should be turned
off while using a city water hookup, however the water
pressure at some campgrounds may be low. The water
pump can be turned on to assist the city water hookup
pressure. Be sure there is some water in the fresh
water tank. The pump will only use the water that is
needed out of the tank to bring the pressure up to the
usual standard of 55 PSI.
Access to the water pump will be necessary for
periodic cleaning of the strainer screen. Refer to
Section 8 - Maintenance for water pump access and
strainer screen removal.
Check your systems monitor frequently (see
Appliances in this section). When the waste water
holding tank is completely full, sewage may back
up into the pipes and cause an unpleasant cleaning
job. Never drain the tanks at any place other than an
approved dumping station.
NOTE
Never put wet strength paper towels or tissues
in your holding tank since they will not dissolve
and can catch in the mechanism of the dump
valve. Colored toilet tissue is slower to dissolve
than white. Most RV-accessory stores offer tissue
designed for RVs that will completely dissolve.
Toilet
The RV toilet in your Nest is a design that has been
used for many years. One pedal is used to open and
close the slide mechanism, as well as, open the water
valve.
In normal use, depressing the pedal dumps the
sewage and fresh water ushes down the side of the
bowl. Water will continue to run into the bowl for a
short time after the pedal is released.
When you wish to conserve water hold the toilet handspray head over the bowl and hold down the thumboperated lever. When depressing the pedal, all the
water is routed through the hand-spray.
NOTE
Draining System
Fresh Water Lines and Tanks
Fresh water drain valves consist of low point water line
drain valves and fresh water tank drain valves. The
valves are in-line or petcock-type valves.
Refer to Section 8 - Maintenance for necessary drain
valve locations and draining procedures of fresh water
lines and tanks.
Drain and Waste System
Your trailer has a drain and waste system that includes
a combined black/gray waste-holding tank made from
corrosion-free molded plastic with trouble-free dump
valves. Therefore, only one sewer hose connection is
needed when hooking up to a dump station.
Almost all campgrounds will have dumping facilities.
Park directories, such as Woodalls and Rand McNally,
also list dumping stations. Refer to Section 8 —
Maintenance for important information on waste water
tank draining, cleaning and rinsing procedures.
When you dump the bowl of the toilet, make
sure all paper and solids have cleared the slide
mechanism before you allow it to close. Failure
to do so can cause the groove for the slide to
become jammed and the slide will no longer close
completely.
Please see the toilet owner’s/user manual for warranty
and user tips, and maintenance information.
Deodorizers
There are many deodorizers on the market in tablet,
liquid, and powder form. These not only combat odor,
but also stimulate the bacteria that works to dissolve
the solids in your tank.
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Faucets
Galley Faucet
Wet Bath Wand
The breakers are tied together by a brass bus bar.
One breaker (30amp) protects the 12-Volt tow vehicle
charge line coming from the 7-way cord. Another
breaker (20amp) feeds the trailer brakes breakaway
switch located near the hitch coupler. A 50amp breaker
feeds the battery disconnect relay. The current leaves
the relay and travels to the 12-Volt distribution panel
located in the converter, and then to the rest of the
trailer.
If you replace a blown fuse and it immediately blows
again, do not replace the fuse again until a qualied
service technician can correct the problem.
If the replacement fuse holds for a week or more and
the gap in the fusible metal is barely melted apart, this
usually indicates an overload condition. Reducing the
number of lights or appliances used on that particular
circuit at the same time could prevent any further fuse
failure.
Refer to Section 8 - Maintenance for important battery
maintenance information and 12V diagrams.
Battery Disconnect Switch
The shower wand is designed to give maximum
exibility in usage and provides for water-saving
techniques when using your trailer on self-containment.
It can be held in the hand and moved about the body.
Normally, the best water conservation procedure is to
wet the entire body and then turn the water off. Apply
soap, lather thoroughly and then rinse.
Faucet Cleaning and Care
All that is needed to clean your faucet is a soft, damp
cloth. Airstream does not recommend the use of scour
pads, cleansers, or chemicals. The abrasive nature of
these substances could damage the faucet’s nish. A
non-abrasive car wax will help to protect the nish.
Electrical
Battery/12-Volt System Information
The major portion of electrical power in your Nest is 12volt. The 12-volt current powers all gas appliances for
controls and/or ignition as well as lighting. An exception
would be the range which has its own ignition source.
All 12-Volt current comes through the battery system
in the front of your trailer. Two batteries are accessible
in the nose cone storage box on the A-frame of your
trailer. Power from the batteries goes to a set of four
Type 2 thermal breakers located under the front bed.
The battery disconnect switch is used to separate
the batteries from the 12-volt distribution panel and
converter charging system.
When the switch is turned to ON and the trailer is
plugged into an external AC power source, the 12-volt
distribution panel will receive power from the converter
and the batteries will be charged through the converter
charging system.
When the switch is turned to OFF and the trailer is
plugged into an external AC power source, the 12volt distribution panel will still receive power from the
converter, but the batteries are disconnected from
the system. The batteries will not be drained with
the switch in the OFF position. The converter will not
charge the batteries with the switch in this position.
The charge in the 12-volt batteries can be replenished,
depending on the tow vehicle, from the tow vehicle
alternator through the 7-way cord. This charge will ow
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to the batteries regardless of the battery disconnect
switch position. Likewise, if on or off, a solar panel will
still charge the batteries if connected.
Converter
All Nest models have the converter installed below the
refrigerator. Open the decorative door for access to 12volt fuses and 120- volt breakers.
The converter transforms 120-volt AC into 12-volt
DC. The converter/charging system is the interior low
voltage electrical system that enables you to use the
interior lights, fans, pumps, and 12-volt appliances,
whether operating on self-contained battery power or
120-volt city power. The 12-volt light bulbs give off the
same light as regular household bulbs, so that when
operating on self-contained battery power, everything
works normally except the 120-volt convenience
outlets and 120-volt appliances. The converter system
is designed to maintain constant output voltages
regardless of the variances that occur in city power
systems.
The converter is energized only when the trailer is
hooked up to external AC power.
To test the converter, observe the following:
• Conrm 120-volt power is going into converter.
• Disconnect the 12+ wire from the master switch.
• Using a voltmeter, check voltage output between
heavy gauge positive and negative wires coming out
of converter.
• The voltage should be within 13.8 and 14.0 volts.
(The meter of the tester should be calibrated
periodically.)
• If converter is not within these voltages, have it
serviced by a qualied technician or replace it.
One of these wires is not spliced onto a wire of the
same color. It is the backup wire that is yellow in the
cable and black in the harness.
A label on the inside of the converter door lists the
circuits and what each fuse powers.
12-Volt Power Circuits
The current in the converter system is 12 volts direct
current (12 VDC) negative grounded. Power sources
that supply 12 VDC current to the system are as
follows:
• Main charge line from tow vehicle
• Trailer batteries
• Converter
The power sources listed above are all electrically
connected to the 12-volt distribution fuse panel that
distributes current to interior branch circuits. The
circuits provide power to operate all 12-volt DC lights,
pumps, motors, and appliances.
Power converter is a solid-state electronic power
supply and is maintenance-free. It is so self-sufcient
and quiet that you will probably not know it is working
except for the fact that your batteries are always
charged, and your 12-volt lights and appliances always
work.
If any 12-volt appliance fails to operate, rst check
your 12-volt distribution fuse block, located behind the
decorative front door in the front right-hand corner of
the converter and inspect all fuses. If a fuse is opened
or blown, replace it with the same size fuse (never
install a larger fuse). If the fuse opens again, have an
electrician or certied RV technician locate the circuit
trouble. Replace blown fuses only with the same type
and amperage size previously used.
If the power converter is not working, rst conrm
the RV supply or shoreline cord is plugged into a
live circuit. Then check all the 120-volt breakers in
your RV distribution panel to make sure they are on.
If the breaker is tripped, follow instructions to reset
the breakers. If the breaker trips again, consult an
electrician or certied RV technician.
Converter Operation
The electronic power converter is designed to supply
the nominal 12-volt-ltered DC power for all 12-voltoperated devices encountered in RV service. Although
the converter is an excellent battery charger, the
converter does not require a battery to be connected to
it for proper operation.
NOTE
When installing a battery (s), always observe
polarity. Connecting a battery in reverse polarity
will blow the power converter main fuses located
on the 12-volt DC distribution fuse block.
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120-Volt AC Panel Board
The AC panel board section contains the 120 VAC
branch circuit breakers for your RV. One of the
breakers controls the 120-volt power to the 12-volt
converter section. This breaker may also control
another branch circuit. Check the label next to each
breaker for what each branch circuit breaker controls.
The 120-volt circuits may be turned on by setting their
breaker handle up, to the ON position, or off by setting
the handle down, to the OFF position. To reset the
tripped breaker, move handle to OFF then ON.
The system incorporates GFCI breakers that
implement an auto self-test functionality. When turned
off, these breakers require external AC power to be
present before they can be turned back on. If AC power
is present from and the breaker refuses to stay on
consult an electrician or certied RV technician.
Fuses and Breakers
Breakers
The distribution panel was designed to use a 30 AMP
120Volt main breaker with branch circuits. Double
breakers may be used for the branch circuits. Should
a breaker become faulty replace with the same type
breaker only. Use only approved circuit breakers and
12V fuses.
NOTE
When replacing circuit breakers replace with the
same type and rating as the original.
12 VDC Fuses
Each 12 VDC circuit in the distribution panel was
designed for a maximum of a 20 amp automotive
style fuse. Should one need to be replaced, be sure
to replace it with the same type and Amp rating as
originally supplied by Airstream. Replacing it with either
a higher or lower Amp fuse could result in the panel not
functioning properly.
REVERSE Polarity Fuses
The power converter is equipped with reverse polarity
fuses, Should these fuses “blow” either during the
manufacturing process or while connecting the battery,
replace with the same type and rating fuse as originally
provided with the equipment.
The power converter is not weather resistant nor
designed for installation in wet locations. The power
converter must be protected from direct contact with
water.
Automatic Micro-Controller Operation
The power converters 3-stage switch mode is fully
automatic. The converter senses which mode it needs
to be in by checking the condition of the battery. The
three modes include:
Absorption Mode: During this mode the converter
output is in the 13.6 VDC range. This is the mode
that the converter will function at normally. This mode
provides the 12 VDC and the current required by the
trailer.
Bulk Mode: In this mode, the output voltage of the
converter will switch to 14.4 VDC range for a maximum
of four hours. If the converter cycles between
“Absorption and Bulk modes”, there could be a shorted
battery cell or other issues.
Float Mode: If the trailer has not been used for a
period of time and the shore power has been left
plugged in, the converter will automatically go into
oat mode with a voltage of 13.2. When the converter
senses a demand, by turning on lights, the converter
automatically returns to absorption mode.
120-Volt Electrical System
City Power
When your trailer is hooked up to external AC power,
the converter system automatically charges the trailer
batteries with the battery disconnect switch in the USE
(on) position and, if the 7-way cord is hooked up and
depending on your vehicle, your tow vehicle battery
as well. The speed and degree of charge depends on
how much power is used for lights and appliances, as
only the surplus goes to charging the battery. If you are
making an extended stay, then you should keep your
trailer hooked up to a 120-volt current if it is available.
While you are connected to external AC power, the
wiring is protected by circuit breakers in the breaker
panel. The circuit breaker panel for the 120-volt system
is located in the converter. In the event of a failure of a
120-volt circuit, rst check your trailer circuit breakers
and the breaker for the outlet into which your trailer
shoreline cord is plugged. If a breaker continues to
trip after you have reset it several times, your circuit
may be overloaded with appliances or there may be a
short in the circuit. Try lessening the load on the circuit.
Perhaps an electric griddle, hair dryer, or an electric
heater can be turned off. If that does not solve the
problem, consult an Airstream Service Center.
The 120-volt electrical system provides power to
operate the air conditioner, converter, and 120-volt
receptacles for portable appliances. The power is
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carded through the 120-volt city power exible cord to
the 120-volt distribution panel, and then is distributed
to each appliance or receptacle. Exterior outlets for
120-volts are located on the curbside exterior wall
between the wheels and above the wheel well.
All wire, components, and wiring methods conform to
federal and state requirements.
Converter
The converter system is a transformer designed to
maintain constant output voltages regardless of the
variances that occur in city power systems. The design
eliminates the need for complex electronic sensing
systems to charge the batteries, minimizing the
possibility of failures and greatly increasing its overall
reliability.
WARNING
The GFCI circuit breaker will NOT reduce shock
hazard if contact is made between a HOT load wire
and a neutral wire or 2 HOT load wires.
Each GFCI circuit breaker is calibrated to trip with a
ground current of 5 milliamperes or more. Since most
persons can feel as little as 2 milliamperes, a distinct
shock may be felt if the need for protection exists.
However, the shock should be of such short duration
that the effects would be reduced to less than the
normally dangerous level. However, persons with acute
heart problems or other conditions that can make a
person particularly susceptible to electric shock may
still be seriously injured.
In some older parks and other locations where three
pronged outlets are not available, certain precautions
to ensure proper grounding and polarity must be taken.
These precautions are listed below:
1. Attach the three-pronged plug to a two-pronged
adapter. The third conductor line of this adapter
has a short wire lead, that must be grounded.
2. For proper grounding, connect the short ground
lead to a grounded outlet box or to a cold water
pipe. When no water pipe is available, drive a
metal rod two feet into the ground and attach the
ground lug to it, thus, providing the unit with proper
grounding.
NOTE
When the three-pronged plug can be used,
there will be no problems with proper polarity or
grounding with a properly wired shoreline outlet.
NOTE
When operating with city power, make very certain
that the service is 120-volt and not 240-volt.
To operate self-contained, simply disconnect the power
supply cable.
Ground Fault Circuit Interrupter (GFCI)
Most states require trailers with exterior 120-volt
receptacles and receptacles close to a water sources,
such as a faucet, to have a ground fault-circuit
interrupter. When properly installed, the GFCI circuit
breaker provides reliable overload and short-circuit
protection, plus protection from ground faults that might
result from contact with a HOT load wire and ground.
While the GFCI circuit breaker affords a high degree of
protection, there is no substitute for the knowledge that
electricity can be dangerous when carelessly handled
or used without reasonable caution.
WARNING
The GFCI circuit breaker provides protection only
to the circuit to which it is connected. It does NOT
provide protection to any other circuit.
GFCI Breaker Test
A
Push To
B
GFCI(s) are proven lifesavers, however, consumers
need to take a few minutes each month to perform this
simple test. By taking action, you can help protect your
family from the risk of electric shock.
1. With handle A in “ON” position, press PUSH TO
TEST button B.
2. Handle A should move to TRIP position, indicating
that GFCI breaker has opened the circuit.
3. To restore power move handle A to “OFF” and then
to “ON“
All GFCI breakers implement an auto self-test
function, however, Airstream recommends a
manual test be conducted every month.
Test
NOTE
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NOTE
All Nest 120-Volt outlets are on a single circuit and
protected by a single GFCI circuit breaker
Television and Internet
Should you choose to install an aftermarket TV
receiver or modem, Nest trailers come pre-wired with
coax cabling ready for hook-up to cable or satellite
television and/or Internet service. Please refer to your
dealer for more information. The outside service hookups terminate inside at the pantry cabinet below the
roadside upper storage locker.
Solar Capable
Nest trailers are equipped to accept power from solar
panels and come pre-wired with a Zamp Solar® “quick
connect” plug-in tting on the trailer frame just below
the nose cone storage box in front. A variety of Zamp
Solar kits are available from your dealer and third-party
vendors.
Refer to Section 8 — Maintenance for Solar Panel
Wiring diagram and information.
Appliances
All appliances are delivered to Airstream Inc. with indepth owner’s manuals. Those manuals are included in
the delivery case supplied by your dealer. The manuals
may contain warnings, cautions, and operating
instruction that should be read and followed before
operating the appliances.
The information contained in the appliances manuals
supersedes any information contained in the Nest
Owner’s Manual on appliances. If you believe
contradictory information on appliances is contained
in this manual, or If any appliance manual(s) have not
been provided with your trailer, contact your dealer,
the respective appliance manufacturer, or Airstream
Customer Service at 937-596-6111 or write:
Airstream Factory Service Center
428 W. Pike Street
P.O. Box 629
Jackson Center, OH 45334-0629
(937) 596-6111
Maintenance
Follow the instructions and warnings noted in the
respective appliance and equipment owner’s manuals,
as well as those mentioned below.
Annual maintenance should be conducted on propane
gas appliances and equipment by an authorized dealer
or repair facility.
Insects can build nests in the burners of various
appliances and equipment. The burner and burner
orice of the propane gas appliances and equipment
should be cleaned out by an authorized dealer or repair
facility anytime circumstances or conditions warrant,
but no less than on an annual basis.
WARNING
Most LPG appliances used in recreational vehicles
are vented to the outside of the vehicle. When
parked close to a gasoline pump, it is possible that
gasoline fumes could enter this type of appliance
and ignite from the burner ame, CAUSING A FIRE
OR AN EXPLOSION.
WARNING
For additional Liquid Propane Gas (LPG) safety
and warning information, refer to Section 2 - Safety
and Section 6 - Exterior of this manual.
Air Conditioner
The roof air conditioner used on Nest trailers is one of
the most popular on the market today. In your owner’s
packet is a set of literature covering all operating and
maintenance instructions. If the literature is misplaced,
contact the air conditioner manufacturer or your
Airstream dealer for replacement.
Proper voltage to the air conditioner is critical. A
voltmeter check may nd voltage much lower at a
campground shoreline outlet than the needed 110 to
120 volts. Your air conditioner may not function if the
current drops below 105 volts. Low voltage is usually
associated with older or poorly maintained trailer parks.
Parking your trailer so the power cord can be plugged
2020 Nest5-11
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Interior
into a receptacle close to the fuse or circuit breaker box
can alleviate low voltage problems. Avoid extension
cords and adapters whenever possible. If an extension
cord must be used, it should be as short and heavy as
possible to provide the most current.
If high temperatures are expected, make an effort to
park in a shaded area. Starting the air conditioner
early in the morning also helps. It is more efcient to
hold a comfortable temperature than it is to lower the
temperature after the interior of the trailer is already
hot.
Never run your air conditioner with the vents closed.
Doing so could cause the air conditioner to freeze
and may damage to the unit. The manufacturer
recommends having at least 3 vents open when
running to prevent any chance of freezing up
NOTE
Review the air conditioning literature supplied in
your owner’s packet before proceeding.
NOTE
It is recommended that you clean lters Weekly
when A/C is in full use.
Thermostat
High Volume Roof Vent
The high-volume roof vent system is designed to
quickly exhaust stale, hot air and draw in fresh air. It
is great to use when the outside temperature does not
call for air conditioning, but heat has built up in your
trailer.
The core of the system is a powerful rotary fan that
works with a slightly open window to create a balanced
airow. It is designed for maximum air exchange,
minimum sound levels and power consumption. Fresh,
clean, natural air is pulled in. Hot, stale, stuffy air is
pushed out.
NOTE
Never cover the ceiling fans. This will greatly
restrict airow and increase sound levels.
Operation
1. Open dome approximately 3 in. or more (ceiling fan
has a built-in safety switch that will not allow motor
to operate unless dome is partially open).
The thermostat controls both the air conditioner and
the furnace. For details regarding the operation of the
thermostat, follow the instructions provided in your
Owner’s Packet.
Exhaust Fans
In the bathrooms round ventilators are used and are
opened by pushing straight up on the crossbar handle
and pressing the red switch to engage the fan motor.
The source of airow is determined by the number of
window(s) or door opened. For best results, close all
roof vents and open one window that is the greatest
distance from the ceiling fan.
Cleaning Instructions
1. Turn fan motor off.
2. Remove the screws around perimeter of screen
insert only.
3. Clean screen with soap and water solution, dab dry
with a soft cloth, and reinstall.
CAUTION
This product has been manufactured using prime
UV stabilized Polymers for maximum toughness
and durability. However, the use of non-compatible
chemicals will cause cracking and product failure.
Please refer to the user’s manual provided in your
owner’s packet for more information.
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Interior
Furnace
The manufacturer of the furnace in your Nest has
been well known in the RV industry for many years.
The furnace burns LP gas, and is powered by 12-volt
current from the batteries or power converter when
plugged into city power. Operating instructions are
located in your owner’s packet. If they should become
misplaced, new literature can be ordered direct
from the manufacturer or your Airstream dealer. The
manufacturer also offers a detailed service guide for
your furnace.
WARNING
Carefully read all the manufacturer’s instructions
prior to operating. NEVER store ammable material
next to the furnace or in close proximity to the
furnace exhaust outlet on the side if the trailer.
NOTE
If warranty service is required, use only a
service location recommended by the furnace
manufacturer or your Airstream dealer.
Microwave Ovens
The Nest galley comes equipped with a microwave
oven. This appliance requires a 120-Volt shore
power hook-up. Refer to the Certied Performance
Checkout sheet, included in your owner’s packet, for
manufacturer, model, and serial number information.
Refrigerator
The Nest refrigerator is all-electric and features a
strong 12V compressor, which results in a powerful
cooling performance. No LPG is required. The
ventilation is integrated which also means that outside
vents are also not required.
The Nest refrigerator has a very quiet compressor. The
standard noise level reaches 32 dB(A). If you want
to reduce the noise level further, you can activate the
night mode, which drops the noise level an extra three
decibel to 29 dB(A).
The interior features a design containing two vegetable
bins, food retainers to keep your food in place while
driving, and bottle retainers in the door bins.
Even in storage, prevent moisture, mold and
unpleasant odors in the refrigerator by holding the door
open. Use the sliding latch at the top of the door to
keep door open. Remember to keep the freezer door
open too.
Review all refrigerator literature supplied in your
owner’s packet or in the refrigerator prior to operating.
CAUTION
When driving, make sure the refrigerator door is
locked. For an additional lock, slide the black latch
over the pin at the bottom of the door.
SeeLevel II Monitor Panel
Range
There is little difference between the operation of home
gas ranges and the trailer’s range. If, however, you are
used to an electric range, operating condence can be
quickly gained by reading the manufacturer’s directions
provided in the owner’s packet. Manufacturer’s service
and parts manuals are also available.
WARNING
An operation manual for the range has been
provided with your owner’s packet. If this has not
been provided with your trailer, contact the listed
manufacturer to obtain. Their manual contains
specialized warnings and cautions that should be
reviewed prior to operating the appliance.
The monitor provides immediate details regarding the
status of your battery system and water holding tanks,
and is the only system component that is accessed by
the user. All user input to the monitor is done using the
three buttons along the bottom of the display.
The display receives the information from the two
sender pads via a single, two-conductor wire, and
displays the level information in percent of full on a
three-digit, LED display. When the front panel button
for a particular tank is pressed, the display powers
up and displays the level for that tank. If the button
is pressed and released, the display will show the
level for about 5 seconds and then shuts down
automatically. If another button is pressed before the
display shuts down, then the new level will immediately
2020 Nest5-13
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Interior
be shown. If the same button is pressed twice, the
display will hold on that tank and continue to show
updated levels for 5 minutes before shutting off. This
allows the user to monitor the lling or draining of the
tank. By pressing two buttons at once, the diagnostic
functions can be accessed.
Sender pads are installed and stuck to the sides of
the holding tank. The sender pad scans the water
level through the tank wall using digital techniques
programmed into the sender microprocessor.
To Read a Water or Sewer Tank Level
1. Press the button corresponding to the tank to be
checked and release it, the display will show the
levels in percent on the LED display. If no other
button is pressed, then the display shuts off after
about 5 seconds.
2. If another button (including BATT) is pressed
before the 5 second time is up for the rst button,
the display will immediately switch to show the new
level or voltage. The 5 second time-out is restarted
every time a button is pressed.
3. To continuously display a reading, press and
release the desired button, and then press the
same button a second time. When the button is
released, the display will be on hold mode, which
is indicated by the decimal point on the right hand
side turning on. While the display is in the hold
mode it will recheck the level once per second
so the user can watch the level change while the
tank is being lled or drained. The display will
automatically shut off after 5 minutes in hold mode.
To end the hold mode before the 5 minutes is up,
press any tank button, and the display will shut off.
To Read the Battery Voltage
1. Press the BATT button and release it, the display
will show the battery voltage on the LED display
2. If no other button is pressed, then the display will
shut down after about 5 seconds. If the BATT
button is held down, the display will continuously
recheck the voltage and show the updated value.
The reading may icker back and forth between
two values.
To Program the LED Brightness
1. The display needs to enter the brightness
programming mode. To do this, press and hold
the BATT button; the display will show the battery
voltage.
2. While continuing to hold the BATT button, press
and hold the GREY button. Continue to hold
both buttons for approximately 5 seconds until
the display shows “bri” to indicate the brightness
programming mode. When this occurs, release
both buttons.
3. Press the GREY tank button to increase
brightness, or the FRESH tank button to decrease
brightness
4. When the display shows the correct brightness,
press the BATT button to exit the programming.
NOTE
Professional and qualied technicians are required
to properly install replacement sender pads for
correct monitor operation.
Water Heater
Nest features an “on demand” tankless water heater.
With no storage tank to heat water, this heater reduces
weight and increases efciency by only operating when
the need for hot water arises. The control panel can be
found under the refrigerator behind the decorative door.
The water heater uses a 60,000 BTU 2-Stage
modulating combustion system which instantaneously
adjusts the LP gas input to provide consistent and
endless comfort regardless of your hot water needs.
The Nest water heater also comes standard with a
freeze protection mechanism and state-of-the-art, 3-Try
Direct Spark Ignition for safe and reliable operation.
3. If another button is pressed before the 5 second
time is up for the BATT button, the display will
immediately switch to show the value for the new
button. The 5 second time-out is restarted every
time a button is pressed.
4. There is no hold mode for the battery voltage
Review the water heater literature supplied in your
owner’s packet before proceeding.
NOTE
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Section 6
EXTERIOR
EXTERIOR . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 6-1
EXTERIOR CLEANING . . . . . . . . . 6-2
Shell Body Maintenance . . . . . . . . 6-2
Cleaning . . . . . . . . . . . . 6-2
Waxing . . . . . . . . . . . . . 6-2
Compounding . . . . . . . . . . 6-2
Discoloration Removal . . . . . . . 6-2
Repairs . . . . . . . . . . . . . 6-2
Renishing . . . . . . . . . . . 6-2
Caulking and Sealants . . . . . . . 6-2
Windows . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 6-3
Aluminum Wheels . . . . . . . . . . . 6-3
GENERAL INFORMATION AND OPERATION . 6-3
Step . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 6-3
Main Door . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 6-3
Screen Door . . . . . . . . . . . . . 6-3
Emergency Escape Windows . . . . . . 6-3
Awning . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 6-4
Exterior Shower . . . . . . . . . . . . 6-4
City Water Hookup . . . . . . . . . . . 6-4
Coax Cable/Satellite/Internet Inlet . . . . . 6-4
Shoreline Power Supply . . . . . . . . 6-5
Axle and Running Gear Assembly . . . . 6-5
Operating Instructions . . . . . . . 6-5
Liquid Petroleum Gas (LPG) . . . . . . . 6-6
Fill Valve . . . . . . . . . . . . 6-6
LPG Tanks . . . . . . . . . . . 6-7
Exterior LPG Port . . . . . . . . . . . 6-7
Basic Rules For LPG Safety . . . . . . . 6-7
If You Smell Gas . . . . . . . . . 6-8
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Exterior
Exterior Cleaning
Shell Body Maintenance
Normal maintenance of your gel coated Nest is similar
to the care you would give your automobile. Overall,
automotive cleaners and waxes work ne.
NOTE
Do not use caustic or highly alkaline (high pH)
cleaners or those containing ammonia. These
type of cleaners may darken white or off-white
weathered gel coat surfaces.
NOTE
Always clean your trailer in the shade or on a
cloudy day when the exterior shell is cool.
Cleaning
We recommend general washing to avoid soil buildup and staining. The soil on your gel coat nish is the
result of regular use and environmental pollutants
such as soot and smog. Periodic cleaning with a mild
detergent is necessary to remove normal deposits of
soil.
Waxing
From constant exposure over time to our natural
environment and undesired pollutants, the gel coat
begins to lose its gloss. To restore your nish to the
original gloss and color requires your special attention.
After washing with a mild soap or detergent give the
surface a good polishing with a self-cleaning marine
or automotive wax. Waxing in the fall and spring is
generally recommended to maintain and restore
most of the original gloss. If the surface has not been
maintained and has weathered badly, and if cleaning
and waxing does not restore the nish satisfactorily,
compounding will be required.
Compounding
Polishing compound (ne abrasive) or rubbing
compound(coarser abrasive) is recommended for use
on RVs to remove scratches, stains, or a severely
weathered surface. Polishing or rubbing compound
can be applied by hand or by mechanical means, such
as an electric or pneumatic buffer. After the scratched,
stained or weathered surface has been removed,
it should be waxed to enhance the gloss and color
while providing a seal to retard staining or new soil
accumulation.
Discoloration Removal
Your local berglass repair shop is best equipped and
trained to do this work. If regular washing and waxing
has been neglected, discoloration of the gel coated
berglass surface may occur. Discolored areas are
very shallow in depth, literally right on the surface.
The discoloration may be removed by gently wetsanding the affected areas only by using 600 grit,
specially treated waterproof sandpaper. It’s important to
always sand in one direction, this includes the curves
too. Use water to cool and clean the sandpaper and cut
back on dust.
After you are nished sanding, dry the areas and
verify all the discoloration has been removed. If not,
repeat the process. After sanding, buff the area using
an electrical or pneumatic buffer at low speed (1750
rpm – 2250 rpm) with a generous amount of rubbing
compound on a soft wool pad. This will restore the
luster to the sanded surface. When bufng has been
completed, wash off the rubbing compound with clean
water, and dry the surface.
To restore the gloss to the affected area, use a highgrade marine or automotive wax.
Repairs
During the life of your RV, some damage to the gel
coat surface is unavoidable. We recommend repairs be
done only by trained, experienced professionals at your
local berglass repair shop.
Renishing
For a severely scratched or weathered berglass
RV that is no longer restorable by using the previous
methods, it may then be necessary to renish it with
two-package or two-part aliphatic urethane enamel.
This can be done very effectively, but its recommended
renishing should only be done by experienced
professionals.
Caulking and Sealants
It is recommended that the caulking and sealant
used in external seams and joints, such as rear-shell
segment, around window frames, light bezels, etc., be
checked once a year. If this material has dried out and
become cracked, checked or if a portion has fallen out,
it should be replaced with fresh material to prevent
possible water leaks. Caulking and sealing products
are available from your Airstream dealer.
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Page 45
Exterior
Windows
Clean your trailer windows the same way you clean the
windows in your home. Clean the seals with a damp
cloth and mild detergent every three to six months.
Do not use strong solvents, as they will damage the
seals. A coat of natural silicone lubricant applied after
the seal has dried, will keep it exible. Spread the
lubricant evenly with a brush or nger, working it into
the surface. This is a good practice for all rubber seals
in your trailer.
WARNING
Failure to properly clean and lubricate the window
seals could result in the window sticking to the
jamb. Window seals that become stuck to the
window jamb should be released by a qualied
technician trained in the procedure. Do not force,
pry, or apply great pressure to open the window.
Failure to heed this warning may cause the window
to shatter and/or cause personal injury.
For replacement of a damaged window, contact an
Airstream Service Center.
Aluminum Wheels
The aluminum wheels and axle end cover come
treated with a clear-coating. Keep them looking good
by washing with soap and water. Do not use abrasive
cleaners or polishes on coated aluminum wheels.
Main Door
The main door of the trailer is manufactured with a
built-in, keyed dead bolt and door lock. The door lock is
engaged from the inside by a lever and the dead bolt is
engaged by turning the knob.
A main door hold-back is mounted on the trailer’s
exterior side skin. The hold-back secures the door to
the side of the trailer. When opening the door, push it
gently into the spring-operated slide. To release the
door, slide the hold-back bolt back.
For lubrication and out-of-adjustment issues, refer to
Section 8 - Maintenance.
CAUTION
When towing, the door lock and dead bolt must be
secured. If it is not locked, the constant vibration
of travel may cause the door to open resulting in
possible damage.
Screen Door
The screen door is secured inside the main door and
can be operated by pulling the screen from its storage
frame across the doorway to magnetically latch.
Emergency Escape Windows
General Information and Operation
Step
To operate the step, lift up on the front of the step and
pull straight out until step locks into place.
CAUTION
Once the steps are lowered, press down on them to
make sure they are secure in their notches. Never
travel with step lowered or extended.
The escape window is identied by its RED release
handle. In case of emergency:
1. Remove bug screen from window frame
2. Depress RED-tipped window handle to release
from latch, then pull straight
3. Push handle through frame, thus allowing window
to swing free; then climb to safety.
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Page 46
Exterior
Awning
Complete operating instructions have been provided
with your awning. Make sure your traveling companion
is familiar with the operation of the awning.
The awning’s primary function is sun protection.
Therefore, roll up your awning in case of heavy rain,
wind or snow. To prevent water buildup on the awning
during a light rain, position one upper arm lower than
the other to create enough of a slope for adequate
water runoff.
NOTE
If wind or extended periods of rain are expected,
roll up the awning and secure in traveling position.
CAUTION
The effects of wind and rain on any awning are
unpredictable. Severe damage to the trailer and/or
the awning may result and cannot be covered by
warranty.
Exterior Shower
City Water Hookup
The city water hook-up is located on the side of the
trailer. For consistent water ow and plumbing line
safety, an in-line regulator limits pressure to 50 PSI.
Use a tasteless, odorless, and non-toxic high-pressure
hose of at least 1/2 in. diameter designed for RV use.
The city water inlet is a standard garden hose thread.
We suggest you carry two lengths of hose in order to
reach hookups farther away than normal, plus, to have
a spare.
Nest is equipped with an exterior shower. This shower
consists of a shower hose, shower head, and water
valve inside of a lockable exterior door. Water is
supplied by the pump or city water hookup. Be sure to
shut and lock the door when not in use.
After hooking up the hose and turning on the city
water valve provided in the park, slowly open a faucet.
There will be a lot of spurts and sputtering until all
the air is expelled from the trailer system. If the water
heater is empty, it will take some time before all the air
is expelled and a steady ow of water occurs at the
faucet. Once a steady ow is achieved at one faucet
the others should be opened long enough to expel the
air in the lines going to them.
Your plumbing system has a built-in pressure regulator
to protect your lines and faucets from extremely high
pressures on some city water systems.
Coax Cable/Satellite/Internet Inlet
Ports for cable TV, satellite and/or Internet hook-up are
located on the road-side of your Nest.
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Page 47
Exterior
Shoreline Power Supply
The power cord hookup is located on the side of the
trailer. The cord may be stored in the rear exterior
compartment. The power cord is plugged into the trailer
receptacle and the City Power Service.
NOTE
Use only power cords recommended by Airstream.
Many campgrounds provide less than 30 amp service,
and your hookup may blow their fuse or circuit breaker.
If this happens, reduce the load and replace the fuse or
reset the breaker.
Axle and Running Gear Assembly
Each rubber torsion axle is aligned during
manufacturing, and double-checked on a random
basis. Alignment after delivery is the customer’s
responsibility.
Hitting chuck holes or rough railroad tracks while
traveling straight will only cause misalignment after
the tire has struck such objects many times. Of
course, a deep enough hole can affect the alignment
immediately.
The worse culprit is a curb because they are normally
struck at an angle. Rear axles are occasionally
damaged when people are attempting to park beside a
curb while backing up their trailer.
Hitch/Coupler
Operating Instructions
The EZ-Latch coupler features a simple-to-use latching
mechanism. Hooking up is as easy as dropping the
coupler on to your hitch ball. Simply make sure that the
coupler is properly lined up with the ball, then lower
the coupler. The coupler will automatically open and
latch into place when lowered onto the hitch ball. To
disengage coupler, pull up on latch and raise coupler
off of hitch ball. Return the coupler latch to the latched
position to ensure that coupler is ready to be latched
again. The coupler features a strong composite
handle, If the handle does get damaged or becomes
missing, the coupler is still completely operational
until the handle can be replaced. Replacement parts
can be purchased through your Airstream Dealer. See
additional information included in your owner’s packet.
WARNING
Always make sure coupler is properly attached and
latched before towing.
The trailer axle(s) is bent upward in the middle. This
bend is normal and is how the camber is obtained.
Also, toe-in is built into the axle by very slight bends in
the axle tube on each end.
Tire wear indicates misalignment. Check with your
dealer for the nearest location having the proper
equipment to correct the trailer’s alignment.
Refer to Section 8 - Maintenance for camber and toe-in
specications.
2020 Nest6-5
Always use a 2-5/16” ball for your hitch. An
improperly sized ball can decouple — which could
result in either a serious accident and/or extensive
WARNING
damage.
Page 48
Exterior
Liquid Petroleum Gas (LPG)
Fill Valve
The LPG tank is equipped with an RV Type I Acme
ll valve connections. The large, green, nylon swivel
connection nut is right-hand thread — designed for
hand operation only.
The valve features an internal spring-loaded module
that will not allow gas to ow from the cylinder until
a positive seal has been made. The valve outlet
has 1-5/16 in. Acme right-handed threads on the
outlet exterior and female POL, left-handed threads
on its interior. This feature allows for connection
of the wrenchless Acme RV connection while still
accommodating the standard left-handed POL ttings
used for lling propane cylinders.
The mating, green swivel nut and brass nipple also
incorporate new features: the green nylon nut swivels
on a black bushing that is heat-sensitive. Between 240
and 300°F, the bushing will yield (melt) allowing the
spring- loaded module in the valve to push the brass
nipple back (approximately 1/4 in.), closing the module
and stopping the ow of gas from the cylinder. Inside
the brass nipple is a ow-limiting device designed
to sense excessive gas ow. If an excessive ow is
sensed, the ow-limiting device shuts the ow down
to a maximum of 10 SCFH (Standard Cubic Feet per
Hour) or less. This is also referred to as the bypass
ow.
Bypass ow is extremely important in the proper
operation of this connection. The ow-limiting device
may activate if the cylinder valve is opened quickly.
When all appliances are off, the bypass ow allows
the pressure downstream from the ow-limiting device
to equalize. When pressure is equalized, the owlimiting device will supply normal ow to the system.
Equalization occurs in approximately 5 seconds and, in
most cases, goes completely unnoticed.
If, however, an appliance is left on or there is a leak
or open ow in the system, the bypass pressure will
not be able to equalize and allow the ow-limiting
device to reopen. Symptoms of this condition would be
appliances that light but have lower than normal ame
or starve out from lack of gas, a substantial reduction
in the ame when another appliance is operating, or
pilots that are difcult to light. If this should happen, the
following steps should eliminate the condition:
1. Close LPG cylinder valve.
2. Extinguish all ames and smoking materials.
3. Be sure all gas appliances, including their pilot
lights, are off.
4. Open LPG cylinder valve slowly. Do not snap open.
5. Wait at least 15 seconds before lighting appliances.
6. If operational difculties continue, there may be
a leak in the system. Immediately close the LPG
cylinder valve and have the system inspected by a
qualied RV service technician.
.
WARNING
Leaking LPG may ignite, causing a re or
explosion, which could result in serious bodily
injury, property damage, and/or death.
How long a full tank of gas will last is dependent on
usage. In cold weather when you are using the furnace,
large amounts of hot water, and are doing extensive
cooking, you will naturally use more gas than you will
in warm weather when you may do limited cooking. On
the average, with normal cooking and other appliance
use, you can probably count on two to three weeks of
service from each tank.
WARNING
LPG regulators must always be installed with the
diaphragm vent facing downward. Regulators
that are not located in compartments have been
equipped with a protective cover. Make sure the
regulator vent faces downward and the cover is
kept in place to minimize vent blockage, which
could result in excessive gas pressure, causing re
or explosion.
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Page 49
Exterior
LPG Tanks
The following procedure outlines the proper method of
removing and installing LPG bottles:
1. Disconnect the rubber gas line at the tank to be
removed. (The green nylon nut is a right-hand
thread and no tools should be used.)
2. Turn the wing nut on the ring screw
counterclockwise until the hold-down ring is
loosened enough to be able to remove the tank.
3. After re-lling or changing bottles, tighten the wing
nut until the tank is held rmly in place.
4. Re-connect the rubber gas line by hand-tightening
green nylon nut to the tank. (Again, right-hand
thread.)
5. Test ttings with ammonia-free and chlorine-free
liquid soap or products designed for testing, such
as Snoop® liquid leak detector.
If you have allowed the tank to run out, air may have
gotten into the lines. In this event, the air must be
forced out through the lines by gas pressure before you
will be able to light the pilots. Hold a match to the pilot
of the appliance closest to the tank until it lights and
stays lit. Then move to the next-closest appliance, etc.
NOTE
Use only the LPG tanks furnished with your trailer.
If replacement is required, it must be a bottle of the
same size and design.
WARNING
Your LPG tanks must be lled as directed by the
tank manufacturer. Instructions are located on a
decal near the ll valve. The decal must not be
defaced.
WARNING
The LPG tank is securely mounted in the front
cone of your trailer. If this tank must be removed
for service or replacement, it is important that it
be reinstalled correctly in order to prevent any
possibility of it becoming dislodged during travel.
Exterior LPG Port
An exterior LPG port quick-connect may be installed on
the hitch A-frame of your trailer. An LPG supply line is
shipped with the trailer in the loose parts box. This can
be used to connect a lantern or other appliance that
uses a one-pound, low pressure LPG tank supply to
the exterior port.
To assemble, install a male quick-connect coupler to
one end of the supply hose. Then add a are tting to
the other end of the supply hose and install a onepound tank coupler to the are tting. This assembly
can be installed into the appliance in place of the one
pound LPG tank.
Basic Rules For LPG Safety
A warning label is displayed in the cooking area
reminding you to provide an adequate supply of fresh
air for combustion. The amount of oxygen supply in a
trailer is limited due to its compact design. When using
the cooking appliances, proper ventilation will prevent
dangers of asphyxiation. It is especially important that
cooking appliances not be used for comfort heating
as the danger of asphyxiation is greater when the
appliance is used for long periods of time.
WARNING
A warning label has been located near the
LPG container. This label reads: DO NOT FILL
CONTAINER(S) TO MORE THAN 80 PERCENT OF
CAPACITY. Overlling the LPG container can result
in uncontrolled gas ow, which can cause re or
explosion. A properly lled container will contain
approximately 80 percent of its volume as
liquid LP gas.
WARNING
Do not store LPG tanks within a vehicle. LPG
tanks are equipped with safety devices that vent
gas should the pressure become excessive.
2020 Nest6-7
Page 50
Exterior
WARNING
Do not use cooking appliances for comfort
heating. Cooking appliances need fresh air for safe
operation. Before operation, open an overhead
vent or turn on an exhaust fan and open a window.
WARNING
Do not bring or store LPG tanks, gasoline, or other
ammable liquids inside the vehicle because a re
or explosion may result.
WARNING
Portable fuel burning equipment, including wood
and charcoal grills and stoves, shall not be used
inside the recreational vehicle. The use of this
equipment inside the recreational vehicle may
cause res or asphyxiation.
Twice a year, or after a long storage period, we suggest
you take your unit in for a checkup and cleaning of the
gas-operated appliances.
If You Smell Gas
1. Extinguish any open ames, pilot lights, and all
smoking materials.
2. Do not touch electrical switches.
3. Shut off the gas supply at the tank valve(s) or gas
supply connection.
4. Open doors and other ventilating openings.
5. Leave the area until odor clears.
6. Have the gas system checked and leakage source
corrected before using again.
6-82020 Nest
Page 51
Section 7
TOWING
TOWING . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 7-1
TOW VEHICLE . . . . . . . . . . . . . 7-2
BRAKES . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 7-2
Electronic Brake Controller . . . . . . . 7-2
Proper Electric Brake Use . . . . . . . . 7-2
Breakaway Switch . . . . . . . . . . . 7-3
Loading . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 7-3
Weighing Your Trailer . . . . . . . . . . 7-4
Hitching Up . . . . . . . . . . . . . 7-4
7-Way Plug . . . . . . . . . . . 7-4
Equalizing Hitch Load Distribution . . . . 7-5
TOWING TIPS AND INFORMATION . . . . 7-5
Tracking Observation . . . . . . . . . . 7-5
General Information . . . . . . . . . . 7-5
Cooling System Overload . . . . . . . . 7-5
Downhill and Non-level Driving . . . . . . 7-6
Off-Road Towing . . . . . . . . . . . 7-6
When Being Passed . . . . . . . . . . 7-6
Passing . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 7-6
Backing Up . . . . . . . . . . . . . 7-6
Stopped On a Hill . . . . . . . . . . . 7-6
Controlling Sway or Fishtailing . . . . . . 7-6
Equipment . . . . . . . . . . . 7-7
Tongue weight . . . . . . . . . . 7-7
Driving . . . . . . . . . . . . . 7-7
Corrective Measures . . . . . . . 7-7
Sway Control Device . . . . . . . . . 7-7
2020 Nest7-1
Page 52
Towing
Tow Vehicle
When buying a new vehicle to tow your trailer, we
suggest including towing options offered by most tow
vehicle manufacturers. These include such things as a
heavy-duty alternator and radiator, heavy-duty springs
and shock absorbers, transmission cooler, heavy-duty
fan and asher unit, etc., for the make of the vehicle.
WARNING
Springs that are too stiff can hinder the action of
the weight equalizing hitch and prevent the transfer
of weight to the front of the vehicle.
NOTE
Only use springs heavy enough to support your
loaded vehicle (not including trailer). Having a too
harsh spring rate on your tow vehicle will only
shorten the life of the tow vehicle and trailer, and
will cause your trips to be less enjoyable.
Transmissions may be manual or automatic, but an
automatic transmission may prolong your tow vehicle’s
life and generally does a better job of controlling engine
loads than does the average driver using a manual
shift.
Having adequate power is very important when
considering the purchase of a new vehicle or the
trailer-towing capability of your present one. Auto
dealers are provided with guidelines to use when
helping a customer decide on a tow vehicle. Guidelines
are not determined solely by the power output of the
engine. The gear ratio of the differential is also a very
important part of the guideline.
Inspect the tow vehicle’s hitch regularly for loose bolts
or nuts, cracked welds, loose ball mounts, worn parts,
etc.
New trailerists often carry more food and other supplies
than really needed. Remember that every item you
take along is one more thing to stow and adds weight
to the total load you must pull. Consolidate items in
shelves, lockers, and in the refrigerator. It is better
to have one full and one empty locker, than two
half empty ones. Special care must be taken not to
overload the front and rear ends of the trailer.
Brakes
All trailers are equipped with Dexter Nev-R-Adjust
brakes. Please follow all maintenance procedures
in the Dexter user’s manual provided in the owner’s
packet.
Electronic Brake Controller
The trailer brakes are operated by 12-volt current
from your tow vehicle and must be hooked up so you
have an integral system with your tow vehicle brakes.
To prevent problems and ensure satisfactory braking
action, install an electronic controller in line with the
brakes in your tow vehicle.
An electronic controller will synchronize the trailer
brakes with your tow vehicle brakes. It is designed to
apply the trailer brakes with your tow vehicle brakes.
Your brake controller should be adjusted to provide for
a slight lead of the trailer brakes over the tow vehicle
brakes.
NOTE
Study all material provided with your particular
brake control. If you do not understand the
information, have the installer explain the
information to you or call the manufacturer of the
controller.
Proper Electric Brake Use
Proper synchronization of tow vehicle to trailer braking
can only be accomplished by road testing. Brake
lockup, grab, or harshness is quite often due to lack
of synchronization between the tow vehicle and the
trailer being towed, a too-high threshold voltage (over 2
volts), or under adjusted brakes.
WARNING
Never use your tow vehicle or trailer brakes alone
to stop the combined load.
WARNING
The braking system should be checked and
serviced by qualied, certied technicians only.
Failure to do so could result in loss of control
of your vehicle or the trailer, causing damage to
property, injury, and/or death.
7-22020 Nest
Page 53
Towing
Breakaway Switch
In the event of an accidental separation of the tow
vehicle and the trailer, the breakaway switch will set
and lock the trailer brakes for a sufcient length of time
to stop the trailer. The switch is activated when the wire
attached to it and to the tow vehicle pulls out the small
pin in the front of the unit.
When the trailer is connected to the tow vehicle, the
breakaway switch loop should be attached to the
permanent frame of your hitch. When disconnecting
the trailer from the tow vehicle, remove wire loop from
the frame. Do not remove the pin from the switch
because this will apply the trailer brakes.
WARNING
Do not use the breakaway switch as a parking
brake. If the battery should go dead, the trailer
parking brake would no longer be applied. Failure
to comply could cause damage to property, injury,
and/or death.
Loading
When towing a trailer, you are subject to new and
different challenges on the highway than you may have
previously encountered. Towing a trailer is no small
responsibility and should be undertaken with great care
and safety rst in mind. An accident with a tow vehicle
and trailer can have much greater consequences than
carelessness with a small car. Like an airline pilot who
is responsible for expensive equipment and many lives,
you should take your responsibilities as a tow vehicle
driver very seriously and learn all you can about
doing the job safely and well. Balancing the load and
preparing the trailer and tow vehicle are critical to safe
handling.
One of the most critical aspects of safely towing a
trailer is knowing the weights involved and where they
are placed. The rst thing to determine is how much
is being towed and conrming that it is within the
capacities of the equipment being used. Determining
where the load is placed is critical to the way your rig
will handle on the road.
Know what your trailer weighs loaded. Load your trailer
including water, propane, etc and take it to a public
scales. Weigh each axle of your vehicle. Refer to your
axle weight and tire limits to see if you are within a safe
range. Total all axle weights, ensuring you are below
the Gross Vehicle Weight Rating (GVWR).
Make sure your load is balanced. Do not load too
much on one side. A balanced load is much easier to
tow or drive. Front to back balance is also important.
Step back and look at your trailer, making sure that
there is not too much weight on the hitch, or on the
rear of the trailer. Secure all items, as loose items
can cause damage and become a safety issue. The
Cargo Carrying Capacity tag shown below is installed
on every trailer and can be found on the inside of the
screen door on your trailer.
A full load of water equals XXX kg or XXX lbs of cargo @ 1 kg/L (8.3 lb/gal)
VIN #################
XXX kg or XXX lbs
CAUTION
Airstream weighs the trailer as nished to arrive at the
trailer’s weight. That number is subtracted from the
GVWR of the trailer and listed under THE WEIGHT
OF CARGO SHOULD NEVER EXCEED on the tag,
The total weight of any and all cargo, including dealer
modications or additions, water, and propane should
never exceed the number listed.
As cargo is added, removed, or shifts in location, the
weight on the axle(s) and hitch will change. Also, the
hitch and axle weights will change as a consequence
of the weight of the LP tank(s) diminishing from
use of propane, and/or the transfer of weight as a
consequence of water in the fresh water tank being
used and transferred to the grey and black tanks. In
shorter units, rear bath models especially, when the LP
tanks are empty and fresh water has been transferred
to the grey and black holding tanks, the reduction in
hitch weight may be signicant. For this reason, we
recommend that the grey and black tanks be emptied
before traveling.
When loading the trailer, keep the following in mind:
• GVWR
• Gross Axle Weight Rating (GAWR)
• Tire Weight Rating
• Cargo
Never exceed these ratings. Your safety depends on
not overloading the trailer, trailer axles, and tires. Refer
to Section 4 - Floor Plan and Specications for rating
list.
2020 Nest7-3
Page 54
Towing
Weighing Your Trailer
The illustration below shows how to weigh the trailer on
scales.
1. Trailer’s total weight, cannot exceed GVWR.
2. Trailer’s weight on axles cannot exceed GAWR.
3. Weight on trailer tongue.
To determine that the GAWR is not exceeded, it is
necessary to load all of your allowable personal cargo
and variable weights. Then hitch the trailer to the tow
vehicle with load equalizing hitch properly adjusted.
Chock wheels and place the trailer on a scale with
both axles only on the scale (see illustration). If the
weight on the axles exceeds the axle system’s GAWR,
then some of the personal cargo must be redistributed
forward in order to place some of this weight on the
tongue.
The tongue weight should be 10 to 15% of the trailer’s
total weight, and must not exceed the tow vehicle’s
or the hitch’s maximum weight rating. To determine
tongue load, unhitch tow vehicle and place the tongue
hitch post on a scale. The trailer must be properly
loaded as determined above, with your allowable
personal cargo and variable weights.
Use a scale, such as a bathroom scale, that has a
lower weight limit than your tongue load, to check the
tongue weight by using the following method (see
illustration).
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 piece
of wood on the two round pieces and screw the jack
extension down on the top of the 4 x 4 until the tongue
of the trailer is supported by it. Multiply the scale
reading by three. This will be the tongue weight of
your trailer. If you exceed the capacity of the bathroom
scales, increase the two-foot dimension to three or four
more feet, but always multiply the scale reading by the
total number of feet between the wood and scales.
NOTE
Be sure trailer is level when reading scales.
Hitching Up
The process of hitching up your trailer is something
that will become almost second nature with practice.
The following section includes proper hitch load
distribution. Proper training on connecting your trailer
to a tow vehicle is essential for safety. Please see your
dealer or other qualied personnel for instruction on the
proper hitching of your trailer. Safety chain use on the
hitch is required in all states.
7-Way Plug
1
7
6
2
3
5
4
1. Black, 12-Volt (+)
2 FT.
1 Ft.
2. Green, Clearance Lights/Taillights
3. Red, Left Turn/Stop
2
1
3
4. White, 12-Volt (-)
5. Blue, Brake
6. Brown, Right Turn/Stop
1. Bathroom Scale
2. Pipe
3. Wood Support
7. Blank
NOTE
The 7-Way Plug is spliced to the main harness in
the area of the 12-volt distribution panel in front of
the trailer.
7-42020 Nest
Page 55
Towing
Equalizing Hitch Load Distribution
When a trailer is properly hitched up to a tow vehicle
with a load equalizing hitch, approximately 1/3 of the
trailer’s tongue weight will be on the trailer’s axles and
2/3 will be transferred to the tow vehicle. One third of
this weight transfer will be carried by the front wheels
and 1/3 by the rear wheels of the tow vehicle (See
Below). 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 information.
WARNING
The tongue weight should be approximately 10 to
15% of the trailer’s total weight. Under no condition
should it exceed the tow vehicles hitch rating.
Please refer to the tow vehicles documentation for
your vehicles hitch rating information.
Towing Tips and Information
We want every Airstream owner to be a safe and
courteous driver. A few hours of towing practice in a
large, empty parking lot will make pulling your trailer
over the road much easier. Mark off two corners of the
parking lot for left and right turns. These corners may
also be used to practice backing and parking.
Tracking Observation
Observe that the tracks made by the trailer wheels are
distinctly different from those made by the tow vehicle.
Studying this will make it easier for you to correct
mistakes.
General Information
After thoroughly inspecting your hitch, brakes, and
tires, you should be ready to tow. Check trafc, signal
when you are about to pull away, and start slowly.
Look often in your mirrors, and observe the action of
the trailer, then carefully move into the proper lane of
trafc. Remember that the trailer wheels will not follow
the path of the tow vehicle wheels, therefore, wider
turns are necessary when turning to the left or to the
right.
NOTE
Truck or trailer type fender, door grip, and rear
view mirrors are a must for maximum visibility and
required by law in most states.
Cooling System Overload
When towing, you might encounter a temporary cooling
system overload during severe conditions, such as:
• Hot days when pulling on a long grade
• When slowing down after higher speed driving
• Driving with long, idle periods in trafc jams
If the tow vehicle’s temperature gauge, or indicator
light indicates overheating, and the air conditioner is
on, turn it off, pull over in a safe place, and apply the
emergency brake. Increase the engine idle speed.
Lift the engine hood and check for uid leaks at the
radiator overow outlet. Ensure all drive belts are intact
and the radiator fan is turning. If you have a problem,
have it xed at the next opportunity. If there is no
problem, the light should go off, or temperature should
come down within one minute. Proceed on the highway
a little slower; resume normal driving after 10 minutes.
WARNING
Never open a radiator cap when the tow vehicle is
hot. Check the coolant level when the vehicle is
cool.
2020 Nest7-5
Page 56
Towing
Downhill and Non-level Driving
When going downhill in dry weather, downshift so
engine compression will slow the whole rig down. Take
dips and depressions in the road slowly and do not
resume normal driving speeds until you are sure that
the trailer wheels are clear of the dip.
WARNING
On slippery pavement, do not use engine drag to
help slow down as this may cause the rear wheels
of the tow vehicle to skid. On icy pavement, drive
slowly and, if you feel the tow vehicle skidding,
gently apply the trailer brakes only. This will bring
the tow vehicle and trailer back into a single line.
Chains do not help trailer wheels.
Off-Road Towing
When driving in mud and sand, let the momentum
carry the rig through. Apply power gently and use as
little as possible. Stay in the tracks of the vehicle ahead
and keep the tow vehicle in the highest possible gear. If
you get stuck, it is best to tow out the entire rig together
without unhitching.
When Being Passed
Despite the best hitch, you will notice that whenever
a large bus or truck overtakes your rig, the displaced
air rst pushes the trailer rear slightly to the right and
then affects the front. It may be necessary to steer
very slightly, momentarily, toward the bus or truck to
help compensate for the sway induced by the passing
vehicle. Do not apply the vehicle brakes, as this
can tend to exaggerate the situation. You may nd,
however, that briey applying the trailer brakes with
your manual control will help eliminate sway.
On a two-lane road, cars may line up behind you
because you travel at a lower speed. It is both
courteous and sensible, if you are able, to signal, pull
onto the shoulder, and let them pass. Your trailer is
designed to be towed easily at any legal speed, so if
you are not careful, you may be inclined to forget it is
there.
Passing
On freeways or expressways, pick the lane you want
and try to stay in it. Always maintain plenty of space
between you and the car ahead, at least the length of
the tow vehicle plus trailer, for every ten miles per hour.
Remember that in order to pass another vehicle you
will need longer to accelerate. You must also allow for
the length of the trailer when returning to the right hand
lane.
Backing Up
When backing up, the important thing to remember is
to do everything slowly and to correct immediately if
you see the trailer turning the wrong way. Concentrate
on the rear of the trailer. With your tow vehicle and
trailer in a straight line, back up slowly and turn the
bottom of the steering wheel in the direction you want
the trailer to go. Watch out the window or in the mirror
until the rear of the trailer is pointing in the desired
direction. Your tow vehicle will be following the trailer in
an arc. Straighten the tow vehicle and trailer by turning
the steering wheel more sharply, and then, when they
are in line, straighten the steering wheel.
Always try to back to your left because the visibility is
much better. When you don’t make it on the rst try, it
is usually much easier to pull forward to your original
position and start over, or at least pull forward until the
rig is straight, and then start backing.
If your spouse or traveling companion normally directs
you when backing, they should position themselves
forward of the tow vehicle so the driver can easily see
them. Their directions should always indicate to the
driver the direction the rear of the trailer should go.
A little practice in a parking lot, with the person giving
directions, can save a lot of frustration when backing
into a campsite.
Stopped On a Hill
Refer to the following warning if stopped on a hill for a
prolonged period of time.
WARNING
Chock the trailer wheels when stopping on a hill
or slope. Leaving your tow vehicle in gear is not
enough for standstill safety. Do not use trailer
brakes as parking brakes.
Controlling Sway or Fishtailing
Sway or shtailing is the sideways action of a
trailer caused by external forces. It is common for
travel trailers to sway in response to strong winds,
crosswinds, when passed by or passing a semi-tractor
and trailer, or driving downhill.
WARNING
Excessive sway or shtailing of your travel trailer
can lead to the rollover of the trailer and tow
vehicle. Serious injury or death can occur. It
is important that you read and understand the
information in this section.
7-62020 Nest
Page 57
Towing
Sway or shtailing of your recreation vehicle can be
controlled and is primarily impacted by four factors:
• Equipment
• Tongue Weight
• Driving
• Corrective Measures
Equipment
When hitched together, the trailer and the tow vehicle
must be level. The tires of both the trailer and tow
vehicle should be in good condition and properly
inated to their recommended pressures.
Braking is a very important factor in vehicle control.
Refer to Brakes (and Electronic Brake Controller) in
this section.
We recommend a friction sway damper or hitch with
built-in sway control be provided for your unit. Please
consult your dealer regarding this equipment. Also,
refer to Sway Control Device in this section for more
information.
Tongue weight
Refer to Weighing Your Trailer and, also, Equalizing
Hitch Load Distribution in this section.
Driving
This is the most important component. The tendency
for the vehicle to sway increases with speed therefore,
obey all speed limits and reduce speed during
inclement weather or windy conditions.
Corrective Measures
If sway occurs, the following techniques should be
used:
2. Steer as little as possible while maintaining control
of the vehicle. Because of natural reaction lag
time, quick steering movements to counter trailer
sway will actually cause increased sway and loss
of control. Keep both hands on the wheel. Hold
the wheel as straight as possible until stability is
regained.
3. Once the swaying is under control, stop as soon
as possible. Check tire pressures, cargo weight
distribution, and look for any signs of mechanical
failure. Travel at reduced speeds that permit full
control until the problem can be identied and
corrected.
WARNING
Do not jam on the brakes or attempt to press on the
accelerator to speed your way out of the shtailing.
Both actions make the situation worse and could
cause severe injury or death.
Sway Control Device
Although Airstream has not intruded into the hitch
manufacturer’s eld of expertise and performed formal
testing, we nd the vast majority of Airstream owners
purchase sway-control devices.
When passed by large trucks or when exposed
to sudden crosswinds, the trailer will be pushed
and this action will be felt in the tow vehicle. It is
our understanding that the sway control device
will reduce the amount of movement, make towing
more comfortable, and add some safety. Follow the
directions of the sway control manufacturer when
having the device installed and when using it.
1. Slow down immediately, remove your foot from the
accelerator. Avoid using the tow vehicle brakes
unless there is a danger of collision. Reduce speed
gradually whenever possible. If you can do so
safely, use the brake hand controller to gently and
progressively apply the trailer brakes. This will help
to keep the vehicles aligned. Practice using the
brake hand controller on a deserted parking lot.
Do not wait until an emergency occurs before using
it. Location of the brake hand controller is important
and should be made easily accessible.
2020 Nest7-7
Page 58
Towing
NOTES
2020 Nest7-8
Page 59
Section 8
MAINTENANCE
MAINTENANCE . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 8-1
MAINTENANCE SCHEDULE . . . . . . . 8-2
SUGGESTED MAINTENANCE AND
REPLACEMENT PARTS . . . . . . . 8-3
TIRES/BRAKES/AXLE . . . . . . . . . . 8-4
Tire Changing . . . . . . . . . . . . 8-4
Jack Location . . . . . . . . . . . . . 8-4
Tire Load and Ination Information . . . . 8-5
Proper Tire Ination . . . . . . . . 8-5
Underinated Tires . . . . . . . . 8-5
How Overloading Affects Your Tires . . 8-5
Weighing Your Trailer Or Towed Vehicle 8-5
Tire Care . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 8-5
Tire Care Tips . . . . . . . . . . . . 8-5
Tire Inspection and Storage . . . . . . . 8-6
Tire and Wheel Replacement . . . . . . 8-6
Lug Nut Torquing . . . . . . . . . . . 8-7
Spare Tire Carrier . . . . . . . . . . . 8-7
Axles and Bearings . . . . . . . . . . 8-7
Rubber Torsion Axle Alignment
Specications . . . . . . . . 8-7
Wheel Bearing Maintenance . . . . 8-7
Brakes . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 8-8
Breakaway Switch . . . . . . . . . . . 8-8
BATTERY (LEAD ACID) . . . . . . . . . 8-8
WATER PUMP . . . . . . . . . . . . . 8-9
Water Pump Access Locations . . . . . . 8-9
Strainer Cleaning . . . . . . . . . . . 8-9
FRESH WATER TANKS AND DRAINING . . .8-10
Drain Valves . . . . . . . . . . . . .8-10
Drain Valve Locations . . . . . . .8-10
Fresh Water Tank Draining . . . . . . .8-10
Water Heater Draining . . . . . . . . .8-10
Water Heater Bypass Valve . . . . .8-10
Sanitizing . . . . . . . . . . . . . .8-10
WASTE WATER TANK DRAINING . . . . .8-11
Waste Water Tank Flush . . . . . . . .8-11
Drain Systems Cleaning . . . . . . . .8-11
WINTERIZING AND STORAGE . . . . . .8-11
Water Heater Winterization . . . . . . .8-13
MAIN DOOR CARE . . . . . . . . . . .8-13
Lubrication . . . . . . . . . . . . . .8-13
WINDOWS . . . . . . . . . . . . . .8-13
Sticking Windows . . . . . . . . . . .8-13
ELECTRICAL DIAGRAMS . . . . . . . .8-14
12-Volt Main Schematic . . . . . . . .8-14
120-Volt/30 Amp Diagrams . . . . . . .8-15
FRESH WATER LAYOUT . . . . . . . . .8-17
FAQS AND ANSWERS . . . . . . . . . .8-18
Battery Amp Draw and Testing . . . . . . 8-8
Battery Cleaning . . . . . . . . . . . 8-9
Battery Storage . . . . . . . . . . . . 8-9
2020 Nest8-1
Page 60
Maintenance
Maintenance Schedule
WARNING
Failure to maintain your trailer can cause pre-
mature and unexpected parts breakage and/or
erratic operation that may be hazardous.
NOTE
See appliance manufacturer’s literature for further
information.
Every 1,000 miles or 60 days
Escape WindowCheck operation of latches and
upper hinge.
Battery* Check water level, lead acid
only.
Smoke Alarm & CO
Detector
TiresCheck tire pressure (See
HitchCheck for loose bolts or
GFI Circuit BreakerTest and record.
* As a battery ages and becomes less efcient,
the water level should be checked more often and
replenished only with distilled water.
Every 5,000 miles or 90 days
Main Door LatchLubricate with dry graphite
Exterior Door Locks Lubricate with dry graphite.
Exterior HingesLubricate with light household
LPG Hold-DownLubricate with light household
LPG RegulatorCheck bottom vent for
Wheel Lug Nuts Torque Aluminum Wheels to
Breakaway SwitchPull pin and lubricate with
7-Way PlugSpray with contact cleaner.
Test and replace battery as
required.
Specications).
unusual wear.
oil.
oil.
obstructions.
110 ft. lbs and Steel Wheels to
100 ft. lbs.
household oil. (See further
instructions in this section.)
Every 5,000 miles or 90 days
Hitch BallLubricate with hitch ball lube or
wheel bearing grease.
Range Exhaust
Hood
Roof Vent Elevator
Screws
Main Door StepLubricate and inspect moving
Every 10,000 miles or 6 months
BrakesInspect or replace as
TiresInspect and rotate.
Spare Tire CarrierLubricate moving parts.
Windows, and Door
Seals
ExteriorWax.
Escape WindowLubricate latches with WD-40
Every year
Wheel BearingsClean and repack
BatteryClean, neutralize, and coat
LPG TanksHave purged by LPG supplier.
SeamsCheck and reseal exterior
Hitch Coupler and
Ball
Interior CabinetryVisual inspection of latches
Clean fan blades and wash
lter.
Lubricate with light household
oil.
parts.
necessary.
Clean with mild detergent and
coat with “Slipicone”.
or light household oil.
terminals with petroleum jelly.
seams, windows, lights, and
vents as needed.
Ensure all parts operate freely.
Replace any component if
worn or damaged.
and locks, hinges and slides.
Silicone spray as needed.
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Page 61
Maintenance
Suggested Maintenance and Replacement Parts
(Part numbers listed are Airstream part numbers and can be ordered by calling a certied Airstream dealer.)
WARNING
Always replace the bulb or light xture with the correct bulb for that light or matching xture. Failure to
heed this warning could cause re, property damage, personal injury, or death.
Exterior 12-Volt Lighting
License Plate LEDPN - 513222
Side Amber LED Clearance LightPN - 513025
Rear Clearance Light BarPN - 513419
Porch Courtesy LightPN - 513179
Side Red Marker Light LEDPN - 513026
Assist HandlePN - 382431-01
Stop/TaillightPN - 513153
Convenience Light (Dump Valve)PN – 512533
NOTE: Most Exterior Lighting is LED and a replacement xture will be required.
Interior 12-Volt Lighting
Single Overhead Light (surface mount)PN - 512376
Reading Light with SwitchPN - 513129
Reading Light (Nickel)PN - 513187
Bath Light (Wet Location)PN - 512478
Inside Door LightPN - 513177
Ambiance Track LightPN - 513340
Ambiance Track Light ControlPN - 513165-02
NOTE: Most Interior Lighting is LED and a replacement xture will be required.
Replacement Fuses
WFCO/Cheng USA Converter3, 15, and 40 A automotive style blade fuse
Replacement Breakers - USA Breakers
20 A Breaker, 12V DC, Type II, #12V20APPPN - 510947-20
30 A Breaker, 12V DC, Type II, #12V30APP PN - 510947-30
Breaker, 20 AmpPN - 510564-20
Breaker, 30 AmpPN - 510564-30
Breaker, BRD BD, 15-15PN - 510564-1515
GFI Breaker, Type BR, 15GFIPN - 510564-15GFI
Replacement Filter
Air Conditioner (13,500 BTU)PN - 690323-470
Touch-Up Caulking
AdSeal Sealant, WhitePN - 365330-01
Sealant, Acrylic Latex, White PN - 360258
2020 Nest8-3
Page 62
Maintenance
Tires/Brakes/Axle
Your trailer is equipped at the factory with name brand
trailer tires. Most Airstream dealers cannot make
adjustments to tires. An Airstream, or tire dealer that
handles that particular brand, must do this. If you
experience tire problems, contact the nearest dealer.
Tire Changing
To change a tire with a jack, see the label afxed to
the underbelly located to the rear of the wheels. This
label reads JACK with an arrow pointing to a plate
riveted to the mainframe rail where the jack head must
be placed. All tire and wheel assemblies are balanced
at the factory. Be sure to rebalance the tire and wheel
assemblies each time a tire is changed.
Jack Location
WARNING
When removing aluminum-forged wheels from
spindle, it is very important to mark them to ensure
the wheel is placed in the same position of the
drum when reinstalling. If the aluminum-forged
wheel is to be mounted on a different drum, it is
important to sand all loose corrosion from the
mating surfaces.
WARNING
Wheel separation can occur:
1. On rst trip, tighten wheel nuts at beginning of
trip, and at 10, 25, and 50 miles.
2. Thereafter, check wheel nuts before each trip.
3. Following winter storage, check wheel nuts
before beginning a trip
4. Following excessive braking, inspect wheel
nuts.
NOTE
Airstream does not supply a jack with the trailer.
WARNING
The maximum speed rating on the tires installed
on your trailer is 87 MPH. Do not exceed this
rating. Failure to heed this warning could cause
catastrophic tire failure resulting in property
damage, personal injury, and/or death.
WARNING
Never attempt to change any tire on the trailer
without securely chocking the trailer’s remaining
wheels. Never position yourself in a manner where
a raised trailer can come down on you if it should
become dislodged from a jack or ramp.
NOTE
Torque Aluminum Wheels to 110 ft. lbs and Steel
Wheels to 100 ft. lbs.
Tire Load and Ination Information
Maintaining proper tire ination pressure is essential for
both tire safety and performance.
Proper Tire Ination
The level of air in your tires affects your vehicle’s
overall performance. A maximum ination pressure
specication is found on the trailer’s exterior on a metal
tag riveted to the lower front, roadside of the trailer, as
well as on the original equipment tires.
Air pressure should be checked based on the load on
each individual tire. Cold Ination Pressure should be
adjusted to handle the maximum tire load, and all tires
on the axle should carry the same ination pressure.
Cold tire ination pressure is the tire pressure checked
in the morning before you drive more than a few miles
or before rising ambient temperatures or the sun’s
radiant heat affects it.
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Maintenance
Underinated Tires
Underination brings a higher risk of damage due to
road hazards, reduce casing durability, cause a loss in
fuel economy, and will result in uneven or irregular tire
wear. Severe underination brings about an increased
risk of tread separation, handling difculties, and
possible tire failure, caused by overheating.
When minimum ination pressure requirements are not
met, tire durability and optimum operating conditions
are compromised. Tire ination pressure should always
meet the guidelines for vehicle weight.
Observe the following:
• It may be necessary to inate your tires at a truck
stop or truck service center in order to achieve
adequate air pressure for your trailer’s needs.
• Only permanent air seal metal valve caps should be
used.
• Be safe - if a tire has been run in a 20% underinated
condition, it must be dismounted and inspected by a
trained professional. It should not be aired up without
a full inspection or without using a safety cage. Use
a calibrated gauge. If your tire is rated for higher
ination pressures, a special gauge will be required
designed for larger tires.
• Do not bleed air from warm tires to reduce pressure
buildup.
• Do not inate tires to cold PSI rating beyond rim
specications.
How Overloading Affects Your Tires
Tire pressure is what enables your trailer tire to
support loads, thus, overloading can have serious
consequences. Too much weight can cause stress
on the suspension system components, brake failure,
handling and steering problems, irregular tire wear,
and possible tire failure. If you discover that your tires
cannot handle the load, lighten the weight of the load
on your tires.
Tire Care
The most important function of tires are to provide
traction while moving, and grip when steering or
stopping. The tires on your trailer are designed for
highway use and must be properly maintained in order
to maximize tire life, as well to provide a safe mode of
transportation.
Tire Care Tips
To reduce the risk of tire failure, we strongly
recommend the following:
1. Check the pressure in your tires, including your
spare, at least monthly when the tires are cool
(after the vehicle has stopped three hours and then
driven less than one mile). Do not reduce pressure
when tires are hot. Use a tire gauge to check
pressure and maintain it at the recommended level.
2. Never overload your tires. Heed the maximum
load-carrying capability of your tires.
3. Check your tires frequently for scrapes, bulges,
separations, cuts, or snags resulting from use. See
your tire dealer immediately if any such condition is
discovered.
4. Never operate your vehicle in excess of lawful
speeds or the maximum speeds justied by driving
conditions, or in excess of speeds recommended
for the tires you are using.
5. Make every effort to avoid running over objects
that may damage the tire through impact or cutting,
such as chuck holes, glass, metal, etc.
6. Never drive on smooth tires. Tires should be
removed when 2/32 in. of tread depth remains. In
most states it is illegal to drive with less than 2/32
in. remaining tread depth.
7. Park out of the sun whenever possible when in
warm climates. In desert regions, use tire covers to
prevent ultra violet light deterioration to tires.
Weighing Your Trailer Or Towed Vehicle
Since a trailer or towed vehicle adds to the load on
the tires, it is crucial to properly weigh towed vehicles.
Refer to Section 7 - Towing section for important
detailed information on loading and weighing of the
trailer.
2020 Nest8-5
Page 64
Maintenance
Tire Inspection and Storage
Before taking your trailer on a trip or when removing
it from an extended storage period, make it a practice
to inspect the overall condition of your tires. Check for
any type of condition or damage that might result in
failure. A thorough check should include both inside
and outside sidewalls, tread area and the condition
of hardware such as valve stems, valve caps, and
wheels. The tread should be checked for any unusual
wear, cracking, penetrations and/or cuts. An uneven
wear pattern can indicate misalignment or worn
suspension parts.
Since many RVs are used seasonally and sometimes
stored for extended times, it is possible that tires will
take many years to wear out. Tires, as any rubber
product, will age over time. If tires show cracking
in the sidewall or tread surfaces that are more than
2/32 in. deep, they should be replaced before your
next trip or vacation. Store your RV in a cool dry area
away from major heat sources and extreme cold.
An enclosed storage area is best with no exposure
to electromagnetic sources such as generators or
transformers. If you must keep your trailer outside,
cover your tires from direct sunlight. Take your trailer
to your tire dealer for service to check or correct any of
these conditions.
Tire and Wheel Replacement
It is possible to replace your tires with a different size,
in some instances, to increase your load capacity with
a different ination pressure. If there is a reason to
replace your tires with a different size, make sure the
following checks are made before the purchase:
• Does the replacement tire have the load capacity that
is needed for my trailer and will it t properly inside
the wheel well?
• Will the overall diameter difference affect the braking
system?
• Is the increase in air pressure compatible with the
maximum rated pressure stamped on the rim?
Most trailers are towed at or near maximum loads
during hot weather and then left idle for months. In
normal use, oils in the tire come to the surface during
exing and protect the rubber from ultraviolet light. But
when the trailer tires sit idle too long, natural aging may
cause the rubber to crack prematurely, especially in the
sidewall area. Trailer tires over ve years old should
be inspected by a tire expert for cracking and replaced
even if it has no apparent tread wear.
Choose a tire adequate for the load. The load rating
printed on the sidewall will show the maximum load
that can be carried at a dened pressure.
A Goodyear Endurance ST235/80R16E tire inated to
80 PSI (MAX.) has a load capacity of 3420 lbs.
WARNING
Do not mismatch wheels and tires.
Axle systems are installed with hubs and drums
that are compatible with many wheels used in the
recreational vehicle industry that have matching
bolt patterns. If the original manufacturer-installed
equipment is in need of replacement, the wheel
manufacturer should be contacted for proof of
compatibility prior to replacement and use.
Customers replacing original equipment that has
not been tested for compatibility must ensure the
replacements are compatible to the hub and drum
assembly installed. Such elements of compatibility
include, but are not limited to:
• Diameter of the hub-mounting surface.
• Stud length and diameter.
• Location and number of studs.
• Center hole diameter for the wheel.
• Wheel-mounting offset from the rim center.
• Rated capacity of the wheel.
• Wheel fastener torque.
• Wheel nut size and shape.
• Impact of any added wheel accessories (such as
decorative center caps) that could affect proper
seating of the wheel to the hub surface.
Refer to the following table for wheel specications.
Wheel Specications
Size/Center Size
In Inches
16 x 6 / 5.56Nest
All wheels have zero offset.
Lug PatternModel
8-62020 Nest
Page 65
Maintenance
Lug Nut Torquing
Trailer wheels must carry much higher loads per wheel
than passenger car or truck wheels. Each wheel may
carry 1000 pounds and higher. Furthermore, wheels on
tandem axle trailers do not steer, and are subjected to
very high side load stress whenever the trailer makes
a tight turn. When going around corners, especially on
slow, tight turns, the wheels are subject to very strong
side loads. This tends to ex the wheel and gradually
loosen the wheel nuts. Although the materials and
manufacturing methods are maximized for this kind of
service, these extra loads can cause stress, which can
result in exing and loosening of wheel nuts.
Before each trip and any time a wheel is replaced, be
sure to tighten the wheel nuts, following one of the
lug-pattern sequences shown below. If the wheel was
replaced, check the torque every 10, 25, and 50 miles.
Spare Tire Carrier
The Nest spare tire is stored under the front of the
trailer. The front handle of the tire carrier is a 1-in. tube
protruding out from under the frame on the curbside.
It is secured by a bracket and bolt along the inside of
the frame rail. Removing the bolts allows the front on
the tire carrier to be lowered and the spare tire to be
removed.
WARNING
The spare tire carrier is designed to carry an
undamaged tire and rim assembly of the type and
size specied for the trailer. Never place a severely
damaged wheel assembly with a damaged partial
tire, or a rim only, in the carrier.
Axles and Bearings
NOTE
Never allow heat to be applied to the axle tube
because the rubber providing the spring torsion
action will be severely damaged.
Rubber Torsion Axle Alignment Specications
If you notice wheel wobbling, or hear a rattling sound
coming from a wheel, especially at low speeds, a
wheel lug nut may have come loose. This problem is
usually caused by improper tightening, or by faulty or
damaged lug bolt threads.
If suspicious of a loose lug nut, safely stop vehicle as
soon as possible. Put up warning devices. Remove the
lug caps and check the tightness of all the lug nuts.
Tighten all lug nuts to the specied torque, using a
torque wrench. If stud threads are damaged or faulty,
get professional service help.
NOTE
Use a torque wrench to tighten lug nuts.
Tightening by hand or with an impact wrench is not
recommended.
NOTE
Torque Aluminum Wheels to 110 ft. lbs and Steel
Wheels to 100 ft. lbs.
Toe-In and Camber Specications
Toe-In each side 1/16 in.Tolerance 1/8 in. + or -
Camber each side 3/4
degrees positive
Wheel Bearing Maintenance
1. Jack trailer at marked jack location pad behind axle
on mainframe,
2. Remove hubcap or spindle cover, wheel and tire.
3. Remove cotter pin.
4. Remove dust cap.
5. Remove spindle nut and washer.
6. Remove bearings and hub.
7. Lay down hub with inside grease seal down. Knock
out inner bearing and grease seal using wood or
plastic dowel and hammer.
8. Clean all parts thoroughly with kerosene.
9. Check all bearings and races for chips or
roughness of any kind. Any damaged component
must be replaced.
10. Pack bearing with a good grease (No 2 grade-265
ASTM penetration or equivalent).
Tolerance 3/4 degrees +
or -
2020 Nest8-7
Page 66
Maintenance
11. Install inner bearing.
12. Install new grease seal in hub or rotor using
wooden or rawhide mallet.
13. Install hub and drum on spindle.
14. Install outer bearing.
15. Install washer and spindle nut.
16. While rotating the wheel, tighten the spindle nut
with a 12” wrench until there is a slight tension.
Then back off one notch and install cotter pin.
There should now be from .001” to .010” end play
in hub. If not, back off one notch.
17. Check the lug nuts at 10, 25 miles and recheck at
50 miles of travel. See Specication Section in this
manual for wheel torque ratings.
When packing bearings by hand, place a glob of
grease in the palm of one hand and push the large end
of the bearing down into the grease. Keep turning the
bearing around and forcing it down through the grease
until the grease is extruded up through the opposite
end. Wipe the extra grease in your hand around the
outside of the bearing. It is not necessary to ll the hub
and dust cap with grease.
Brakes
Due to normal brake lining wear, the brakes and the
controller setting should be checked every six months
or 10,000 miles, whichever comes rst.
Breakaway Switch
CAUTION
Allow no more than 20 to 30 seconds pin
separation as damage to brake magnets may
occur.
Battery (Lead Acid)
Nest is factory equipped with two Interstate batteries
(SRM-24).
Battery Amp Draw and Testing
All batteries will have an Amp Hour (AH) rating. The
AH rating on a battery is its C/20 rate or 20 hour
discharge rate. As long as a battery is discharged over
a 20 hour, or longer period, it will deliver 100% of its
rated capacity. If it is discharged in less time at higher
currents it will deliver less capacity.
For example, a battery with a 100 amp-hour capacity
can deliver 1 amp for 100 hours or it can deliver 100
amps for one hour. Batteries are able to deliver current
longer if they are discharged at a lower rate and deliver
less current at a higher discharge rate.
For proper load testing the battery needs to be fully
charge and the voltage should be greater than 12.8
volts. A typical load test should be 3 times the amp
hour for 15 seconds. At the end of 15 seconds the
voltage of the battery should stay above 9.6 volts. If the
battery cannot reach a fully charged voltage of 12.8 or
greater the batteries will need to be equalized.
NOTE
When checking the state of charge the battery
needs to have been disconnected from a charging
source and any loads for a minimum of four hours.
WARNING
Before removing the batteries verify that shoreline
power is not connected. Risk of electrical shock
1. Pin
2. Breakaway Switch
To prevent corrosion within the breakaway switch, pull
the pin out and spray the inside of the switch through
the hole with an electric contact cleaner (such as SpraKleen). Applying a drop of light household oil on the pin
and the groove near the base of the pin will allow the
pin to operate freely. Immediately reinsert pin. Perform
this procedure every 90 days.
may be present.
8-82020 Nest
Page 67
Maintenance
The following chart shows the approximate % of
charge SOC (State of charge) vs. OCV (Open circuit
voltage) and specic gravity for Interstate batteries.
Battery Cleaning
Battery maintenance is an important issue. Maintain a
clean battery top and check terminals and cables for
tightness and cleanliness. A dirty battery will dissipate
its charge through surface contamination. Clean the
battery top with a damp cloth and dry thoroughly.
To ensure maximum battery capacity on the charge
and discharge, the battery terminals and the inside
portion of the cable connector should be scraped
or brushed. The terminals should be tight and free
of corrosion. The battery should be cleaned using
a baking soda and water mix, with a ratio of two
tablespoons of baking soda to a pint of water. The
cable connection should be cleaned and tightened
regularly.
For battery service or replacement, go to a service
station or dealer who sells and services the make of
battery installed in your trailer.
The following recommendations may be helpful if the
battery is to be stored:
• When storing the battery in a vehicle or vessel, it is
not necessary to leave it on charge. Disconnect the
negative battery cable. This will prevent inadvertent
discharging of the battery which may lead to a
complete discharge.
• Fully charge the battery before putting it in storage
and store in a cool place.
• Charge the battery every 30 to 60 days to ensure
maximum battery life.
NOTE
A battery will self-discharge 1-3% per month at 80
degrees.
Water Pump
Water Pump Access Locations
The location of the Nest water pump and lter is
behind the curbside galley. Access to both is gained by
unscrewing the service panel located on the inside of
galley cabinet.
Strainer Cleaning
Locate the water pump and housing cap. Turn housing
cap counterclockwise to remove cap and carefully pull
out strainer. Clean strainer in small bucket of clean
water or under running water. If necessary, clean
strainer in a detergent solution. Install strainer and
housing cap, being careful not to damage housing cap
seal.
NOTE
Reconnect the battery cables to the correct
battery posts.
Battery Storage
During the winter, the batteries should be removed
from the trailer and stored in a cool, dry place, where
there is no danger of freezing. They should be kept
full of water, cleaned, and charged monthly. A battery
that is allowed to completely lose its charge will never
regain its original power or a full charge.
2020 Nest8-9
Page 68
Maintenance
Fresh Water Tanks and Draining
Drain Valves
Under the trailer are galvanized steel boxes that are a
few inches lower than the trailer frame. These boxes
are insulated exterior tank pans and they support the
freshwater and holding tanks. Petcocks open with a 1/4
turn, line drain valves are open when the handle aligns
with the water line.
Drain Valve Locations
Nest has two water line lowpoint drain valves that are
located on the curbside in front of the tire behind the
black utility compartment.
Fresh Water Tank Draining
Pumping the water out with the self-contained water
pump can empty the fresh water tank. Simply turn on
the pump switch and open a couple of faucets until the
water will no longer drain out, or use the petcock-type
drain valve located on the freshwater tank pan. Be sure
to watch closely and turn the pump off when the tank
runs dry.
Water Heater Bypass Valve
The Nautilus On-Demand water heater bypass valve
is located on the backside of the heater. It can be
reached via the access panel below the curbside
dinette cushion or mattress. Simply turn valves to
bypass heater.
Sanitizing
Potable water systems require periodic maintenance
to deliver a consistent ow of fresh water. Depending
on use and the environment the system is subject to,
sanitizing is recommended prior to storing and before
using the water system after a period of storage.
Systems with new components, or ones that have been
subjected to contamination should also be disinfected
as follows:
1. Use one of the following methods to determine the
amount of common household bleach needed to
sanitize the tank.
a. Multiply “gallons of tank capacity” by 0.13;
the result is the ounces of bleach needed to
sanitize the tank.
b. Multiply “Liters of tank capacity” by 1.0; the
result is the milliliters of bleach needed to
sanitize the tank.
2. Mix the proper amount of bleach into a container of
water.
3. Pour the correct amount of solution (water/bleach)
into the Fresh Water tank and ll with potable
water.
4. Open all faucets (hot and cold) allowing the water
to run until the distinct odor of chlorine is detected.
CAUTION
Do not let the pump run dry for extended periods of
time as this could damage the pump.
Water Heater Draining
Nest is equipped with Suburban’s Nautilus On-Demand
water heater. This “tankless” heater features builtin freeze protection. For more details, refer to the
manufacturer’s owner’s manual provided with your
trailer.
5. The standard solution must have 4 hours of contact
time to disinfect completely. Doubling the solution
concentration will allow for contact time of one (1)
hour.
6. When the contact time is completed, drain the tank.
Rell with potable water and ush the plumbing of
all sanitizing solution.
8-102020 Nest
Page 69
Maintenance
Waste Water Tank Draining
To empty waste water tank, remove outlet cap and
attach the sewer hose by pressing the hose bayonet
inlet tting onto the outlet — rotating clockwise until it
feels solid and secure. Attach the outow end of the
hose to the sewage station and orient hose so it will
completely drain. Pull the dump valve handle out and
wait until the tank is drained.
Close the dump valve and partially rell the tank with
clean water and repeat the process until clean. The
holding tank must be ushed out until all paper and
waste material is removed. Should solids accumulate,
close the dump valve, ll the tank about half full
with water, then tow the trailer for a few miles. The
turbulence caused within the tank will usually loosen
and suspend the solids so the tank can be drained.
Replace the dump outlet cap prior to traveling.
Waste Water Tank Flush
The trailer has a water hose connector specically
for ushing the waste water tank. To use, hook up a
garden hose and turn it on. A spray head within the
tank will rinse the interior surface of the tank. The
dump valve should be closed for the rst couple of
minutes. Once the tank is half full, turn the hose off,
pull the dump valve and release the water out in a
rush. Repeat as needed. The tank ush should be
used regularly or the spray head may become clogged.
Drain Systems Cleaning
The only cleaning agents that can be used without
causing harm to the system are household ammonia
and tri-sodium phosphate in small quantities. Do not
use any product that contains any portion of petroleum
distillates. This type of product will attack the rubber
seals of your toilet and dump valve. Also, do not use
any dish detergent or abrasive cleaners. All products
should be marked as approved for ABS drainage
systems.
When you are in a park and connected to a sewer
station, keep the main holding tank dump valve closed,
and empty waste tank every few days or when it
becomes almost full. Only by sending a large volume
of liquid, all at once, through the main holding tank will
toilet paper and other solids completely wash away.
This practice will avoid the accumulation of solids in the
waste holding tank, which could lead to an unpleasant
cleaning job.
Draining the tanks as described will protect them from
freezing during storage. When traveling in sub-freezing
temperatures, use a winterizing solution designed for
RV use. Follow the directions on the container.
2020 Nest8-11
Winterizing and Storage
When storing your trailer for short or long periods,
use the same precautions as you would in your own
home in regard to perishables, ventilation, and rain
protection. In addition, for prolonged storage periods,
ush out all the drain lines and the holding tanks. Also
drain the entire water system including the water heater
and the water storage tank. Instructions for draining the
water system are explained in the following paragraphs
on winterizing.
The main consideration in winterizing your trailer is to
guard against freeze damage to the fresh water system
lines, tank, and pump, the waste drain system including
the traps and tanks, the water heater, and the batteries.
Page 70
Maintenance
To completely winterize your trailer follow this
procedure:
1. Level the trailer from side to side and front to rear.
Open all faucets.
2. Turn the water pump switch to the ON position to
expel water from the storage tank
3. Open all drain valves including drain plug or valve
on water heater and exterior water service valve.
4. While the water is draining from the system, open
and ush the toilet-ushing valve. Depress hand
spray lever while holding the spray head down
inside the bowl. Depress hand spray thumb button
on the telephone shower head while holding down
inside the tub and drain all water from the exible
hose. Unscrew the heads on both spray units and
store.
5. Turn the pump switch OFF after all water has been
removed from the storage tank.
6. Disconnect outlet hose from water pump.
7. If your unit has a winterization kit installed, open
valve to the winterizing position and remove plug.
If your unit does not have this valve, disconnect
the water pump inlet connection. Turn the pump on
until all the water is expelled. This water, about 1/2
cup, can be caught in a towel or rag.
10. Pour a cup of non-toxic RV antifreeze that has
been approved and listed by a recognized testing
authority such as Underwriter Lab into the lavatory,
sink and tub drains to prevent trap freeze-up.
11. Be sure to open the waste-holding tank dump
valves and drain and ush the tanks thoroughly
(this is very important as the sewage in the tanks,
if frozen, could seriously damage the tanks). Plan
ahead and have this done at a dump station.
12. Remove the batteries from your trailer and store
in a cool, dry place where there is no danger of
freezing. It is very important for optimum life of a
battery to check it periodically and to keep it fully
charged.
13. Remove any items (food, cosmetics, etc.) from
trailer interior that might be damaged by freezing,
or that might damage the trailer if containers
should break.
CAUTION
Remove all RV antifreeze spillage from all drain
and faucet parts after winterizing. Failure to do so
could result in damage to the plumbing xture’s
nish.
An Optional, but not necessary, method for winterizing
protection, is to add a non-toxic antifreeze (approved
for drinking water system) to the water lines using the
following procedure:
8. Lower the front of the trailer as far as the jack
will allow until water ceases to drain, then crank
the jack up as high as it will go and allow any
remaining water to drain out.
9. After the water has stopped running from the drain
lines, apply 50 lb. of air pressure at the city water
inlet. An air-to-city water adapter is available from
your dealer’s RV accessory store. Be sure the
toilet valve, all drain valves, and faucets are open
and pump outlet hose is disconnected. This can
be done at a service station and will force any
remaining water from the water heater and remove
any water that may be trapped in low areas.
1. Reconnect all lines except the hose to the pump
inlet port. If you have the winterization kit installed,
just reconnect the outlet hose. Close all drain
valves.
2. Turn water heater bypass valve to bypass position.
Refer to Water Heater Bypass Valve illustration.
3. If you do not have the winterization kit, attach a
length of hose to the pump inlet port. This piece of
hose should be long enough for the free end to be
inserted into and reach the bottom of the antifreeze
container. .
4. For antifreeze usages follow manufacturer’s
instructions found on label of container.
5. Open all water faucets.
6. Insert hose length into the antifreeze container,
turn the pump switch on, and run the water pump
until the antifreeze solution lls all water lines.
Flush toilet. Work hand shower spray while holding
down in tub.
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7. Shut off the pump and close all faucets.
8. Disconnect the hose length from pump inlet tting
and reconnect water system inlet line. If you have
the winterization kit, turn valve back into normal
use position and reinstall hose plug.
Water Heater Winterization
Maintenance
Main Door Care
Lubrication
Apply a little parafn or grease to the striker pockets
and a slight amount of household oil to the lock
mechanisms to keep the locks operating smoothly.
Also, lubricate the hinge pins periodically with
household oil. Use the lubricant sparingly and remove
any excess from exterior skin immediately.
Windows
Sticking Windows
Forcing the window open may cause the window
to shatter. Always follow the guidelines below for
releasing a stuck window.
1. Unlatch the window latches securing the windows
on the interior.
2. Apply some 303 Aerospace Protectant to a nylon
wedge window tool.
If your Nest is to be stored during winter months,
the water heater system must be drained to prevent
damage from freezing. Once drained RV non-toxic
antifreeze can be added
1. Turn off electrical power to water heater.
2. Shut off gas supply to water heater.
3. Turn off pressure pump on water system.
4. Open both hot and cold water faucet
5. Remove service panel to access system drain
valve. It can be reached via the access panel
below the curbside dinette cushion or mattress.
6. Follow the Winterizing and Storage instructions for
draining entire water system
3. Starting in the corner, tuck the end of the nylon tool
under the glass and gently slide to opposite end.
CAUTION
Prying up or applying pressure to the window may
cause the window to shatter, resulting in personal
injury or unit damage.
4. Once the window is released, wash the gasket with
a mild soap and water solution, and dry.
5. Apply 303 Aerospace Protectant (Airstream part
# 44845WR-01) to the window gasket. To apply,
spray/pour 303 onto a soft rag or sponge and apply
a generous coating directly to the gasket. Remove
any residue that comes in contact with the exterior
aluminum skin. This may be ordered through the
Airstream Parts Department or at the Airstream
online store at www.airstream.com.
NOTE
System will have to be relled with water and all air
removed from lines before unit will re-light.
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Maintenance
Electrical Diagrams
12-Volt Main Schematic
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Maintenance
120-Volt/30 Amp Diagrams
The following electrical diagrams are representative of the National Electric Code (NEC) and Canadian Standards
Association (CSA). All circuits are NEC with the exception of CSA circuits as specied in each respective table.
1. What size of generator is needed to operate my
Nest?
Answer: A 1000 watt generator may be used to charge
just the batteries. However, if wanting to run appliances
such as microwave or AC units, it is recommended to
have at least 4,000 watts or more* (This is for a 30Amp system).
* Many Airstreamer’s accomplish this using two
portable generators run in parallel.
2. I was told my Nest is pre-wired for solar panels.
What does this mean?
Answer: Wiring has been installed throughout your
unit for the “quick connect” of ancillary solar kits. For
more information on solar packages, you may wish to
contact your Airstream dealer.
3. What size batteries are in my Nest?
Answer: Nest models will have the Interstate SRM-24
batteries installed.
4. Do you recommend using a surge protector
when plugged into shore power?
Answer: Your Nest is breaker protected. However,
with the use of more personal electronic devices and
the number of RV users in parks, added protection is
always a plus.
5. What is the battery disconnect switch function?
Plumbing
1. While parked at my site do you recommend
leaving my dump valves open?
Answer: You cannot leave your black water valve open.
This would cause a buildup inside the tank. You need
to keep this closed until you are full or ready to leave.
(Remember, use your no-fuss ush.)
2. How do I use my waste water tank ush?
Answer: First, empty your waste water tank, then close
your waste water tank valve. Hook up your hose to the
external hookup, run a couple minutes, and then open
the valve. Do this a couple times until clear.
3. Do I need a water regulator?
Answer: No, your Nest is equipped with a built in
regulator rated for 50 PSI.
4. How do I get fresh water into my trailer?
Answer: You can use the on board fresh water tank
and 12-volt pump for your water supply when boon
docking, or hook to an external water source via
garden hose to exterior water inlet when parked at a
campground.
Audio-Video
1. Can I install a TV monitor or Internet modem?
Answer: Nest is pre-wired for a coax cable, satellite
and/or Internet connections. Contact your Airstream
dealer for more details about aftermarket options.
Answer: It is a switch that disengages or engages
the 12-volt power supply from the house batteries to
everything but the LPG detector. The switch is used to
cut power when the trailer is not being used or put into
storage to preserve battery charge.
6. What does the power converter do in my
trailer?
Answer: The converter takes 120-volt AC shore power
and turns it into 12-volt DC to keep batteries charged
and power 12-volt items in your trailer.
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Maintenance
Appliances
1. I am planning for a trip in my Nest. How should
I get the refrigerator cooled down?
Answer: Cooling time will vary with exterior
temperatures and time of day. Start by pre-cooling
your refrigerator at least 12 hours prior to loading your
refrigerator. Always pre-cool food in your refrigerator
or freezer to reduce cooling time. Do not pack food too
tight in compartment as to prevent circulation around
food items. Normal refrigerator operating temperatures
are 34ºF to 40ºF.
2. My air conditioner freezes up. What is the
problem?
Answer: In high humidity conditions, the AC
manufacturer recommends you operate your AC
(manual mode) on the high fan setting and all vents
should be open to have maximum air ow over the
coils; this helps reduce icing. Also, dirty air conditioner
lters can restrict air ow and cause the AC to ice up.
Maintenance
1. Where can I nd my trailer serial number?
Answer: A label is attached on the roadside sheet at
the front side sheet seam. This label will also provide
the ination pressure of the tires and GVWR. The serial
number of the trailer is also stamped on the street side
of the A frame by the LPG tanks.
2. Awning suggestions:
Your awning is intended to provide shade. Your awning
can be used in light rain conditions if front or rear is
tilted to let water run off. Light winds should not affect
awning use. If you are leaving your trailer for long
periods or in threatening weather, the awning should
be retracted. Visit the awning manufacturers website
for more information and instructional videos.
3. Cleaning the exterior of my Nest.
Suggestions: Airstream recommends washing the
trailer using a mild auto detergent safe for clear coated
surfaces. Airstream recommends washing based on
operating conditions and waxing a minimum of twice a
year.
4. Can I use a nylon cover for my Nest?
Answer: Airstream does not recommend using any type
of cover. The installation and movement of the cover in
windy conditions could scratch the clearcoat.
5. My main door is hard to open, is this normal?
Answer: Your main door is designed differently than
a at surface door. The door is over bent in order to
apply more pressure at the top and bottom of door for
better sealing. Also, on uneven surfaces the trailer can
be in a slight twist that could affect closing. Make sure
trailer is as level as possible.
6. What should I use to clean the wall fabric on
the interior of my Nest?
Answer: For dried on dirt, we recommend a very
soft brush, followed by mild soap and water. Do not
oversaturate with water. Let dry completely.
7. How do I clean my drapes and upholstery?
Answer: Drapes may be dry-cleaned. Upholstery may
be spot-cleaned. We recommend dry cleaning as the
best overall cleaning solution.
8. What is a rubber torsion axle?
Answer: Your trailer has Dexter rubber torsion axles,
this type axle has internal rubber cords that provide
load carrying capacity verses leaf spring type axles.
Reminder - never jack up trailer using rubber torsion
axle tubes!
9. My windows are sticking and don’t open easily;
what is wrong?
Answer: Your windows have rubber seals around the
edges which in extreme, heat and dusty conditions can
become sticky. You can help prevent this by regularly
cleaning window seals with soapy water and applying
a silicone product or Aerospace Protectant 303 to the
seals. Clean edge of glass also.
10. The mattress in my Nest is an odd shape,
where can I buy sheets?
Answer: Airstream has a selection of sheets for your
Nest and can be purchased by calling (937) 596-6111
extension 7400 or 7418. You can also access our
website at www.airstream.com and click on store.
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Maintenance
NOTES
2020 Nest8-20
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Index
A
Air Conditioner 5-11
Alarms 2-3
Appliances 2-2, 5-11