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Pan America 2010
Owner's Manual
135 pgs817.16 Kb0

Airstream Pan America 2010 Owner's Manual

INTRODUCTION
The Owners Manual for your new Airstream trailer is designed to respond to
the most frequent inquiries regarding the operation, function and care of the
many systems that make modern trailering a joy.
Airstream realizes our customers possess varying degrees of expertise in the
area of repairing and maintaining the appliances in their trailer. For this reason,
the service and trouble-shooting information found in this manual is directed
toward those with average mechanical skills.
We also realize you may be more familiar in one area than you are in another.
Only you know your capabilities and limitations. We want you to use this
manual, and hope you will find the information contained in it useful, however,
dealer to have the repairs made.
A brief explanation of the operation of the appliances such as refrigerator,
furnace, water heater and others are explained in this manual. However, you
will also find the manufacturer’s information supplied in a packet included
with this manual more detailed.
All information, illustrations and specifications contained in 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 which can
2010 Pan AmericaINTRODUCTION
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.
DANGER: Indicates a hazardous situation which, if not avoided,
will result in death or serious injury.
Warning: indicates a potentially hazardous situation that, if not
avoided, could result in death or serious injury.
CaUTiOn Used with safety alert symbol, indicates a hazardous
situation that, if not avoided, could result in minor or moderate injury.
nOTiCE is use to address practices not related to personal injury. This appies
to hazardoussituations involving proerty damage only.
NOTE: Important information regarding the maintenance of your recreational
vehicle.
(Option)
some optional items can only be included during the manufacturing phase and cannot be added. The inclusion of optional items does not imply or suggest the availability, application suitability, or inclusion for any specific unit.
Important Safety Precautions
You’ll find many safety recommendations on this page and throughout this
manual. The recommendations on the next two pages are the ones we
consider to be the most important. They are covered in depth in later sections
of this manual.
Do Not Allow Passengers to Ride in the Trailer During Travel
The transport of people puts their lives at risk and may be illegal. The trailer
does not have seat belts, therefore, it is not designed to carry passengers.
Controlling Fishtailing or Sway (See page C-11)
Sway or fishtailing 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. Be sure to follow the instructions
in this manual.
This denotes items that may be an option on all or particular models. Additionally,
INTRODUCTION
Mold (See page C-10)
There are mold and mold spores throughout the indoor and outdoor environment.
There is no practical way to eliminate all mold and mold spores in the indoor
environment; the way to control indoor mold growth is to control moisture.
Towing and Weight Distribution (See section B, B-1-B-3)
Weight distribution is an important factor when loading your travel trailer. A
recreational vehicle with the cargo distributed properly will result in efficient,
trouble-free towing. Be sure to follow the instructions in this manual.
Lug Nut Torquing (See page D-14)
Being 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 be familiar with and practice. Inadequate and/or inappropriate wheel
nut torque (tightness) is a major reason that lug nuts loosen in service. Loose
lug nuts can rapidly lead to a wheel separation with potentially serious safety
consequences. Be sure to follow the instructions in this manual.
WHEEL SEPARATION CAN OCCUR
On first trip, tighten wheel nuts at start of first trip and at 10, 25, and 50
miles. Thereafter check wheel nut torque: Before each trip, Following
winter storage, Following excessive braking, or whenever a wheel is
removed and replaced.
See torque pattern on page D-14 for tightening sequence and follow torque
specifications in the specification chart in the specification section of this
manual.
Appliances and Equipment (See section H)
The appliances (stove, refrigerator, outdoor grills, etc.) and equipment (hot
a fire and/or explosion. Be sure to follow all instructions and safety messages
in this manual as well as the specific owners’ manuals of the appliances and
equipment.
Tire Safety (See page D-12)
Properly maintained tires improve the steering, stopping, traction, and load-
carrying capability of your vehicle. Underinflated tires and overloaded vehicles
are a major cause of tire failure. Be sure to read the Tire Safety Manual
Addendum included with your owner’s packet.
2010 Pan AmericaINTRODUCTION
Chemical Sensitivity; Ventilation
Chemical Sensitivity
After you first purchase 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 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 significantly less than 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.
Formaldehyde
Most of the attention regarding chemical off-gassing surrounds formaldehyde.
Formaldehyde is a naturally occurring substance and is an important chemical
used widely by industry to manufacture building materials and numerous
household products. It is also a by-product of combustion and certain
other natural processes. Thus, it may be present inside the trailer with some
exposure to a comfortable level.
Trace levels of formaldehyde are released from smoking, cooking, use of
soaps and detergents such as carpet shampoos, cosmetics, and many other
household products. Some people are very sensitive to formaldehyde while
others may not have any reaction to the same levels of formaldehyde. Amounts
released decrease over time.
Your Airstream trailer was manufactured using low formaldehyde emitting (LFE)
wood products, which is the typical usage 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.
INTRODUCTION
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
the emission of formaldehyde by these products naturally decreases rapidly
over time.
Airstream strongly suggests that you take measures to properly ventilate your
trailer on a regular basis. If you have any questions with respect to proper
ventilation of your trailer, please do not hesitate to contact your dealer or
Airstream.
Ventilation
To reduce or lessen exposure to chemicals from off-gassing 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
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 flow of air by sealing the recreational vehicle increases the
formaldehyde level in the indoor air. Please also follow the recommendations
contained in Chapter 2 regarding tips to avoid condensation problems. Many
of the recommendations contained in Chapter 2 will assist in avoiding exposure
to chemicals that off-gas.
Do Not Smoke
Finally, we recommend that you do not smoke inside your recreational vehicle.
In addition to causing damage to your recreational vehicle, tobacco smoke
releases formaldehyde and other toxic chemicals.
Medical Advice
If you have any questions regarding the health effects of formaldehyde, please
consult your doctor or local health department.
Warranty Exclusion
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.
TABLE OF CONTENTS
A. WARRANTY AND SERVICE
Warranty
Warranty Explanation
Service
Reporting Safety Defects
Maintenance Schedule
Maintenance Parts & Supplies
B. TOWING
Tow Vehicles
Brakes
Loading
Weighing your Trailer
Hitching Up
Towing Tips
Pre-Travel Check List
C. CAMPING
Camping Safety
Overnight Stop
Extended Stay
Leveling & Stabilizing
Hook Ups
Winter Traveling
Prolonged Occupancy
Condensation
Molds
Rear Cargo Area
D. EXTERIOR
Exterior Features
Cleaning
Chassis
Windows & Screens
Power Jack
Axle and Running Gear
Electric Brakes
Tires
E. INTERIOR FURNISHINGS
AND ACCESSORIES
Fabric Care
Flooring & Fixtures
Features & Switches
Storage Areas
Smoke Alarm
LP Gas Detector
Window Operation
Antenna/Cable/Satellite System
F. PLUMBING
LP (Liquid Petroleum) Gas
Water System
Winterizing
Drain & Waste System
G. ELECTRICAL
12-volt Operation
Battery
Converter
Solar Panel
Monitor Panel
110-Volt System & Components
GFIC Protection
H. APPLIANCES
Air Conditioner
Furnace
Range
Refrigerator
Water Heater
Roof Vent, High Volume
I. SPECIFICATIONS
WARRANTy AND SERvICE
AIRSTREAM LIMITED WARRANTY
WARRANTY COVERAGE
Airstream Inc. (“Airstream”) warrants that it will repair or replace defects in
material or workmanship in any components of a new Airstream trailer pur-
chased from an authorized Airstream dealer in the United States or Canada for
to the original retail purchaser. In order to obtain coverage under this Limited
Warranty, you must notify an authorized Airstream dealership or Airstream of
the warrantable defect no later than ten (10) days following expiration of this
Limited Warranty. Airstream’s obligation to repair or replace defective materials
or workmanship is the sole obligation of Airstream under this Limited Warranty.
Airstream reserves the right to use new or remanufactured parts of similar qual-
ity to complete any warranty work.
LIMITATION OF IMPLIED WARRANTIES
IMPLIED WARRANTIES ARISING UNDER APPLICABLE LAW, IF
ANY, INCLUDING BUT NOT LIMITED TO IMPLIED WARRANTIES OF
MERCHANTABILITY OR FITNESS FOR A PARTICULAR PURPOSE,
ARE HEREBY LIMITED IN DURATION TO THE TERM OF THIS LIMITED
WARRANTY. ALL OTHER WARRANTIES, EXPRESS OR IMPLIED, ARE
HEREBY DISCLAIMED BY AIRSTREAM. SOME STATES DO NOT ALLOW
LIMITATIONS ON HOW LONG AN IMPLIED WARRANTY LASTS, SO THE
ABOVE LIMITATIONS MAY NOT APPLY TO YOU.
WHAT IS NOT COVERED BY THIS LIMITED WARRANTY
This Limited Warranty does not provide coverage for any of the following:
1. Tires, batteries, stereo, television, range/stove, furnace, refrigerator, water
heater, microwave, generator, slide-out mechanisms, 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. Any part or component of the trailer that was not manufactured or installed
by Airstream;
3. Normal deterioration due to wear or exposure, including but not limited to
rust, corrosion, oxidation, and cosmetic blemishes;
4. Normal maintenance and service items, including but not limited to light
bulbs, fuses, lubricants, sealants and seals, slideout adjustments, door
adjustments, and awning tension;
5. After-market equipment or accessories installed on the trailer after completion
of manufacture by Airstream, or any defects or damage caused by such
items;
6. Trailers not purchased through an authorized dealer of Airstream trailers,
and trailers purchased directly or indirectly through auction, salvage,
repossession, or other non-customary sale means;
7. Defects or damage caused by, in whole or in part, or in any way related to:
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WARRANTy AND SERvICE
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a. Accidents, misuse (including off-road use), or negligence.
b. Failure to comply with the instructions set forth in any owner’s manual
provided with the trailer.
c. Alteration or modification of the trailer except such alterations or
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modifications approved in writing by Airstream.
d. Acts of God or other environmental conditions, such as lightning, hail, salt,
or other chemicals in the atmosphere.
e. De-icing agents or other chemicals applied to the trailer.
f. Failure to properly maintain or service the trailer, including but not limited
to the maintenance of lubricants, sealants, and seals.
g. 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.
h. Use of the trailer other than for temporary recreation purposes, including
but not limited to use of the trailer for residential, disaster relief, commercial,
or rental purposes.
i. The addition of weight to the trailer that causes the trailer’s total weight to
exceed applicable trailer weight ratings, or addition of weight
causing improper distribution of the weight of the trailer.
j. Selection, use, and operation of any hitch assembly.
k. Failure to seek and obtain repairs in a timely manner.
l. Failure to use reasonable efforts to mitigate damage caused by defects.
m. Failure to properly ventilate the trailer.
n. Improper electric power supply or improper vehicle hookup to other
facilities.
o. Acts or omissions of any person or entity other than Airstream.
DISCLAIMER OF INCIDENTAL AND CONSEQUENTIAL DAMAGES
Airstream hereby disclaims any and all incidental and consequential damages
arising out of or relating to the trailer, including expenses such as transpor-
tation to and from vehicle dealerships and Airstream repair facilities, loss of
time, loss of pay, loss of use, inconvenience, commercial loss (including lost
profits), towing charges, bus fares, vehicle rental, service call charges, gasoline
expenses, incidental charges such as telephone calls and facsimile transmis-
sions, and expenses for lodging. This disclaimer is independent of any failure
of the essential purpose of any warranties provided with a 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.
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;
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WARRANTy AND SERvICE
2. Notify Airstream or one of its authorized, independent dealers, of any
claimed defect within the warranty period or 10 days thereafter;
3. Provide notification of a defect within 10 days of discovery of that defect;
4. Promptly return the trailer to an authorized Airstream dealer or Airstream
for repairs.
If you believe a defect covered by this Limited Warranty still exists after an at-
tempted repair by an authorized Airstream dealer, you must contact Airstream
at the following address, specifying:
1. The complete serial number of the 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.
419 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 trailer to the Airstream factory in Jackson Center, Ohio for
repairs.
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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 trailer for any warranty
service shall be the sole responsibility of the owner.
DEALER REPRESENTATIONS EXCLUDED
The entire Limited Warranty provided by Airstream is set forth herein. Airstream
will not be responsible for any additional representations or warranties made by
any person or entity other than Airstream, and Airstream’s obligations are solely
as set forth in the terms and conditions of this Limited Warranty.
WARRANTY TRANSFER
This Limited Warranty is transferable to subsequent owners for the remaining
duration of the warranty period, upon approval from Airstream. Transfer of this
Limited Warranty will only be approved by Airstream upon all of the following:
1. Airstream’s receipt of a completed transfer application form;
2. The payment of a $250.00 processing fee to Airstream; and
3. The completion of an inspection of the condition of the trailer, at the
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owner’s expense, by an authorized Airstream dealer in accordance with
Airstream’s required procedure and Airstream’s receipt of a written report as
to the results of such inspection.
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Transfer application forms are available from your dealer or Airstream’s Service
Administration Department.
CHANGES IN DESIGN
Airstream reserves the right to make changes in design and improvements
upon its products from time-to-time, without imposing upon itself any obliga-
tion to install additional features in your trailer.
STATUTE OF LIMITATIONS
No action may be brought against Airstream for breach of this Limited Warranty,
to an Airstream trailer, more than thirty (30) days after: (1) expiration of the
twenty-four (24) month Limited Warranty period; or (2) expiration of the ten (10)
day notice period that follows expiration of the Limited Warranty period, if such
notice is given.
THIS WARRANTY GIVES YOU SPECIFIC LEGAL RIGHTS, AND YOU MAY
ALSO HAVE OTHER RIGHTS WHICH VARY FROM STATE TO STATE.
AIRSTREAM, INC.
419 West Pike Street
P.O. Box 629
Jackson Center, OH 45334-0629
Tele: 937-596-6111
Fax: 937-596-6539
EXPLANATION OF AIRSTREAM LIMITED WARRANTY
The Airstream Limited Warranty is detailed on a Warranty Card. It is filled out
by the dealer and presented to the owner during delivery of a new unit. The
Limited Warranty must be presented to a dealer to obtain warranty service. It
should be kept in the trailer during the warranty period.
EXCLUSIONS:
Normal Wear
Items such as tires, curtains, upholstery, floor coverings, window, door and vent
seals will show wear or may even wear out within the one year warranty period
depending upon the amount of usage, weather, and atmospheric conditions.
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WARRANTy AND SERvICE
Accident
We strongly urge our dealers and customers to inspect the trailer upon re-
ceipt of delivery for any damage caused by accident while being delivered to
the dealer, or while it is on the dealer’s lot. Damage of this nature becomes
the dealer or customer’s responsibility upon acceptance of delivery, unless
Airstream is notified and the person making the delivery verifies the damage.
Glass breakage, whether obviously struck or mysterious, is always accidental
and covered by most insurance policies.
Abuse
Lack of customer care and/or improper maintenance will result in early failure
for which Airstream cannot be held responsible.
Exposure
Not unlike a car, the steel parts of a trailer can and will rust if subjected to pro-
longed exposure to moisture, salt air, or corrosive air-borne pollutants without
repainting. Aluminum oxidizes when unprotected under similar conditions, and
refinery chemicals of a sulfurous nature are harmful to finishes if not washed
off periodically. Extremely hot or direct sunlight will deteriorate rubber and fade
curtains and upholstery. Conditions of this nature, although they may be normal
for the area, are beyond Airstream’s control and become the responsibility of
the owner.
It is the responsibility of the owner to take such preventative measures as are
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 foresee-
able secondary damage from rain, plumbing leaks, and the natural accumula-
tion of moisture in your unit, such as a delaminated floor; stained upholstery,
carpeting, or drapes; mold formation and growth; furniture damage, etc. Mold
is a natural growth given certain environmental conditions and is not covered
by the terms of the Limited Warranty.
Overload
Damage due to loading, either beyond capacity or to cause improper
towing because of improper balance, is beyond Airstream’s responsibility.
The Airstream trailer is engineered to properly handle the gross vehicle load
rating on the certification label. Load distribution has a definite effect upon
the towing characteristics and attitudes of the trailer. Level hitch installations
are a necessity, and very important on a tandem axle trailer. There are limits
to the amount of load that can be safely transported depending upon speed
and road conditions, and reasonable cause to believe these factors have
been exceeded could void the Airstream warranty. For additional information
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WARRANTy AND SERvICE
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on the loading of your trailer, consult your Owner’s Manual or gross vehicle
weight rating plate.
The Airstream axle is manufactured to a tolerance of 1-degree camber and 1/8”
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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
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.
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.
SERVICE
Before leaving the factory, each and every vital part of the trailer is tested
for performance. Each test is signed and certified by an inspector. After the
trailer arrives on your dealer’s lot all of these vital parts and systems are again
tested. When you take delivery of your new trailer you will receive a complete
check out. At that time a specified list of performance checks on your trailer
equipment will be conducted and any deficiencies you have experienced since
taking delivery will be corrected.
Please contact your dealer if you need service. Major service under your
Airstream Limited Warranty is available through our nationwide network of
Airstream Dealer Service Centers. An up-to-date list of Dealer Service Centers
has been provided with your new trailer. This list is current as of the date of this
publication.
Occasionally dealerships change, or new dealers are added who may not
appear on this list. For this reason, it is suggested that you contact your local
you with additional copies if you need them. ALL CENTERS OPERATE ON AN
APPOINTMENT BASIS FOR THE UTMOST EFFICIENCY.
When you require service from the Airstream Factory Service Center, or a
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WARRANTy AND SERvICE
Certified Dealer Service Center, please contact the service manager for an ap-
pointment, and kindly inform him if you are unable to keep the appointment date
or wish to change it. Service may be arranged at the Factory Service Center by
contacting the Service Coordinator at: Airstream Factory Service Center, P.O.
Box 629, 419 W. Pike Street, Jackson Center, Ohio 45334-0629 Phone: 937-
596-6111
REPORTING SAFETY DEFECTS
If you believe that your vehicle has a defect which could cause a crash or could
cause injury or death, you should immediately inform the National Highway
Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) in addition to notifying Airstream Inc..
If NHTSA receives similar complaints, it may open an investigation, and if it
finds that a safety defect exists in a group of vehicles, it may order a recall
and remedy campaign. However, NTHSA cannot become involved in individual
problems between you, your dealer, or Airstream Inc.
To contact NHTSA, you may either call the Vehicle Safety Hotline toll-free at
1-888-327-4236 (TTY: 1-800-424-9153); go to http://www.safercar.gov; or
write to: Administrator, NHTSA, 1200 New Jersey Avenue, S.E., Washington,
DC 20590. You can also obtain other information about motor vehicle safety
from http://www.safercar.gov.
MAINTENANCE SCHEDULE
EVERY 1,000 MILES OR 60 DAYS
AA
Escape Window Check operation of latches and upper
hinge.
*Battery Check water level
Smoke Alarm Test and replace battery as required.
Tires Check tire pressure (See Specifications).
Hitch Check for loose bolts or unusual wear.
GFI Circuit Breaker Test and record.
* As a battery ages and becomes less efficient, the water level should be
checked at more frequent levels. Checking water level does not apply to Glass
Mat Batteries.
Note: See appliance manufacturer’s literature for further maintenance informa-
tion
Warning: FAILURE TO MAINTAIN YOUR COACH CAN CAUSE
PREMATURE AND UNEXPECTED PARTS BREAKAGE AND/OR ERRATIC
OPERATION THAT MAY BE HAZARDOUS.
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EVERY 5,000 MILES OR 90 DAYS
Exterior Door locks Lubricate with dry graphite
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Exterior Hinges Lubricate with light household oil
LPG Hold Down Lubricate with light household oil
LPG Regulator Check bottom vent for obstructions
Main Door Striker Pocket Coat with paraffin
Wheel Lug Nuts See wheel torque instructions, page D-14.
Break Away Switch Pull pin and lubricate with household oil
7-Way Plug Spray with contact cleaner
Hitch Ball Latch Lubricate with non-detergent motor oil
Range Exhaust Hood Clean fan blades and wash filter
Roof Vent Elevator Screws Lubricate with light household oil
Main Door Step Lubricate moving parts and check
EVERY 10,000 MILES OR 6 MONTHS
Brakes Inspect, adjust or replace as
necessary
Wheel Bearings Clean and repack
Tires Inspect and rotate,
Spare Tire Carrier Lubricate moving parts.
Seals, Windows & Door Clean with mild detergent and coat
with “Slipicone”.
Hitch Ball Lubricate with hitch ball lube or wheel
bearing grease
TV Antenna Lubricate all moving parts with
silicone lubricant.
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WARRANTy AND SERvICE
Exterior Wax (Do not use an abrasive
cleaner or wax).
Escape Window Lubricate latches with WD-40.
ANNUALLY
Battery Clean, neutralize and coat termi-
nals with petroleum jelly.
A-Frame, Step Wire brush and paint frame at front
and rear.
LP Bottles Have purged by LP supplier.
Seams: Check and reseal exterior seams, windows, lights and vents as needed.
Use Acryl-R seam sealer or equivalent.
Hitch Coupler and Ball: Check for wear or damage. Assure all parts operate
freely. Replace any component if worn or damaged.
SUGGESTED MAINTENANCE PARTS AND LUBRICANTS
BULBS, EXTERIOR
AA
Convenience Light (Dump Valve) # 53, wedge base
License Plate # 67
Door Light # 1141
Tail lights, Clearance & Marker lights LED
BULBS, INTERIOR
Shower, Exterior Compartment # 1141
Round Ceiling Light 12V-10W
To change the bulb in the round ceiling light, first remove the lens assembly.
The lens assembly is spring loaded and pops out of the fixture at its chrome
ring. A small screwdriver may be used, be careful not to scratch the chrome and
be sure the bulb is cool before attempting replacement. The bulb inserts into
the ballast by two wire prongs. Grasp the bulb with a piece of cloth and pull it
gently straight out from its ballast. Insert the new bulb, and replace the lens. The
lens assembly has two grooves that must be aligned to the light fixture before
snapping the lens back into place.
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WARRANTy AND SERvICE
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Warning: Always replace the light bulb on an interior or exterior
light fixture with the correct bulb for that light. Failure to heed this warning
could cause fire, property damage, personal injury, or death.
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FUSES
Radio ATC 15 Amp
Battery Cable Fuses SLC 50 Amp
(Canadian approved trailers only)
Power Center 20 & 30 amp
Automotive fuses
Battery Disconnect Relay ATC 5 amp
MISCELLANEOUS
Water Hose Gaskets Wheel Bearing Grease
Extra Hair Pin Clips for Hitch Grease Seals
Dry Graphite Silicone Lubricant
Light Household Type Oil Tie down straps
Spray Contact Cleaner Garage blocks and chocks
Exterior Seam Sealer
12-VOLT BREAKERS
Location: just above the floor under. 50 Amp Type 2
the front bed. An access panel 30 Amp Type 2
in the bed top can be removed to 20 Amp Type 2
access the breakers .
Hitch Ball Lube (May use wheel bearing grease.)
Oil Can with 30 Weight Non-Detergent Oil
WD-40 or Equivalent Aerosol Lubricant
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MAINTENANCE RECORD
WARRANTy AND SERvICE
DAT E DEALER SERvICE PERFORMED
DAT E DEALER SERvICE PERFORMED
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WARRANTy AND SERvICE
NOTES
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TOWINg
TOW VEHICLE EQUIPMENT
Trailers are equipped with Dexter Nev-R-Adjust brakes. Please follow all main-
tenance procedure in the Dexter users manual provided in the owner’s packet.
If you plan to buy a new vehicle to tow your trailer, we suggest that you include
in your purchase the towing options offered by most tow vehicle manufacturers.
These include such things as a heavy-duty alternator and radiator, heavy-duty
springs (See Note), shock absorbers, transmission cooler, heavy-duty fan and
flasher unit and others, depending upon the make of the vehicle.
Transmissions may be manual or automatic, but an automatic transmission
may prolong your tow vehicle’s life and generally does a better job of control-
ling engine loads than the average driver using a manual shift.
Having adequate power is very important when considering the purchase of
a new vehicle or the trailer towing capability of your present one. American
manufacturers realize more than 30% of the vehicles they sell will be used for
when helping a customer decide on a tow vehicle. The guidelines are not just
determined by the power output of the engine. The gear ratio of the differential
is also a very important part of the guideline.
Inspect the vehicle’s hitch regularly for loose bolts or nuts, cracked welds,
loose ball mounts, and worn parts.
New trailerists often carry more food and other supplies than really needed.
Remember that every item you take along is one more thing to stow and adds
weight to the total load you must pull. Consolidate items in shelves, lockers,
and in the refrigerator. It is better to have one full and one empty locker, than
two half empty ones. Special care must be taken not to overload the front and
rear ends of the trailer.
NOTE: Be realistic when ordering heavy duty springs. Only springs heavy
enough to support your loaded vehicle (not including trailer) are necessary. Too
harsh of spring rate will only shorten the life of the tow vehicle and trailer, and
will make your journeys less enjoyable.
ELECTRIC BRAKES
The brakes are operated by 12 volt current from your tow vehicle and MUST BE
HOOKED UP SO THAT YOU HAVE AN INTEGRAL SYSTEM WITH YOUR TOW
VEHICLE BRAKES. To prevent problems and insure satisfactory braking action,
install an electronic controller in line with the brakes in your tow vehicle.
An electronic controller installed in your tow vehicle will synchronize the trailer
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brakes with your tow vehicle brakes. It is designed to apply the trailer brakes
with your tow vehicle brakes.
brakes over the tow vehicle brakes. Follow the directions provided with your
controller and keep the information for future reference. Don’t be afraid to ask
questions! If you don’t understand the directions, have the installer explain the
procedures.
Due to normal brake lining wear, the brakes and the controller setting should
be checked and readjusted every six months or 10,000 miles whichever comes
first.
Note: Brake lining adjustment should be periodically checked (fully) to be sure
trailer brakes are in the same adjustment as the tow vehicles.
Properly set adjustments will provide for safe comfortable stops. They will
also help assure optimum brake and tire life for both the tow vehicle and
the trailer.
IN THE EVENT OF AN ACCIDENTAL SEPARATION of the tow vehicle and
the trailer, the BREAK-AWAY SWITCH will set and lock the trailer brakes for
a sufficient length of time to stop the trailer. The switch is activated when the
wire attached to it and to the tow vehicle pulls out the small pin in the front
of the unit. THIS PIN SHOULD BE PULLED OUT, LUBRICATED WITH LIGHT
HOUSEHOLD OIL, AND REPLACED EVERY 90 DAYS.
To prevent corrosion within the breakaway switch, pull the switch’s pin straight
forward and spray the inside of the switch through the hole with an electric con-
THE TRAILER IS CONNECTED TO THE TOW VEHICLE, THE BREAKAWAY
SWITCH LOOP SHOULD BE ATTACHED TO THE PERMANENT FRAME OF
YOUR HITCH. When disconnecting the trailer from the tow vehicle remove wire
loop from the frame. DO NOT REMOVE PIN FROM SWITCH BECAUSE THIS
WILL APPLY THE TRAILER BRAKES.
DangEr: Do not use breakaway switch for parking brake.
7-way Plug Diagram
Black, 12V
Blank
-
Clearance Lights, Green
Brown, Right Turn
Blue, Brake
Left
Turn, Red
12V, White
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LOADING
When you tow 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 an eye
toward safety first. An accident with a tow vehicle and trailer can have much
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 operating a trailer is knowing the
weights involved and where they are placed. The first thing to determine is
equipment being used. Determining WHERE that load is placed is critical to the
way your rig will handle on the road.
Do not try to guess what your recreational vehicle weighs loaded. Load your RV
your vehicle. Refer to your axle weight and tire limits to see if your within a safe
range. Total all axle weights and make sure you are below the GVWR. If you are
not overloaded 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 recreational vehicle. Make sure that
there is not too much weight on the hitch or on the rear of the RV. Be sure to
secure all items. Loose items can cause damage and be a safety issue if not
properly secured.
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 vehicle.
RECREAT IONAL VEHICLE TRAILER CARGO CARRYING CAPACITY
VIN #################
THE WEIGHT OF CARGO SHOULD NEVER EXCEED
XXX kg or XXX lbs
CAUTION
A full load of water equals XXX kg or XXX lbs of cargo @ 1 kg/L (8.3 lb/gal)
Airstream weighs the vehicle as finished to arrive at the Vehicle Weight.
That number is subtracted from the Gross Vehicle Weight Rating (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
modifications or additions, water, and propane should never exceed the
number listed.
When loading the vehicle it is important to keep the Gross Vehicle Weight
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Rating, Gross Axle Weight Ratings, Tire Weight Ratings, and Cargo in mind.
These ratings should never be exceeded. Your safety depends on not
overloading the trailer, the trailer axles, and tires. See the specification section
for rating list.
CARGO/RAMP TRAILER WEIGHT DISTRIBUTION
Ramp trailers combine RV living quarters with a large cargo area. All of the load-
loading rules for ramp trailers. When you load a ramp trailer, you should place
approximately 60% of the total cargo weight either over or slightly forward of
far forward as possible.
Big, heavy items should be loaded where they can be securely tied down.
Everything should be securely tied down but that is not always possible. Start
with top heavy items if you have them. That’s usually a good place to start
because you must have plenty of room available to properly tie them down.
Tying them straight down is not secure enough. They need to be tied off at
several angles or they could fall over in an abrupt change in speed or direction.
You need room to accomplish this. Smaller items can be used to fill the spaces
around them later.
Once you have the heavy items located, check the tongue weight. If the load is
radically off, make the changes necessary to get close. The smaller items can
be loaded in such a way that they balance out the load. They should be located
so that they will stay put. Placing them next to items that have already been
tied down helps, but your main concern should be to not lose the balance of
the trailer. Don’t forget you can also get one side of trailer a lot heavier than the
other without a little planning. This can cause tire failures from overloading. This
can also cause a very serious problem when cornering, even causing the trailer
to turn over in a sudden turn.
Top heavy loads can cause problems not only in cornering but also in hard
braking. They have a tendency to make the trailer “dive” in hard braking condi-
tions. This suddenly increases tongue weight and can decrease tow vehicle
front axle loading just when you need steering and brakes the most. Center top
heavy items or arrange the remainder of the load to act as a counter weight to
minimize this effect.
Never place heavy objects on add-on devices hung on the rear bumper or
placed across the tongue frame. This places heavy objects where they will
dramatically affect handling in corners or bumps. Heavy weights placed well
behind the axle can also reduce stability.
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1.
2.
3.
Use good common sense and always allow plenty of margins for safety.
Warning: Locate and secure cargo and vehicles to maintain
safe weight distribution in the cargo area and throughout the trailer.
Improper weight distribution or overloading could lead to loss of ve-
hicle control during travel resulting in serious injury or death.
Maintain the loaded hitch weight with percent levels stated in this
manual and consider the affects of sway and weight distributing bars
if used on the trailer. Do not exceed the GVWR (gross vehicular weight
rating) or the GAWR (gross vehicular axle weigh rating) of either the
trailer or tow vehicle.
WEIGHING YOUR TRAILER
The diagram 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 GVWR.
3. Weight on trailer tongue.
When loading heavy objects such as tools, skillets, irons, and boxes of canned
goods, etc. keep them as low as possible - preferably on the floor. Try to hold
additional weight behind the axle to a minimum.
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Warning: The allowable personal cargo must be distributed
in your trailer in such a manner that the Gross Axle Weight Rating is not
exceeded.
adjusted load equalizing hitch.
Place the trailer on a scale with axles only on the scale (see 2). If the weight on
the axles exceeds the axle system Axle Weight Rating (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 in between 10% - 15% of the trailer’s total weight,
but must not exceed the manufacturer’s maximum recommended hitch weight
of the tow vehicle or hitch. To determine tongue load, unhitch tow vehicle and
place the tongue hitch post on a scale. The trailer must be properly loaded as
determined above, with your allowable personal cargo and variable weights.
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tongue load to check the tongue weight by using the following method (see
illustration).
Place a piece of wood
of approximately the
same thickness as the
bathroom scales on
the ground in line with
the trailer hitch jack as
shown. It should be so
spaced that a short
piece of pipe or other
round piece will lay
exactly one foot from
the centerline of the
jack extension. Place the scales so that another round piece can be exactly
two feet from the centerline of the jack extension in the other direction. Place
a 4 x 4 on the two round pieces and screw the jack extension down on the top
of the 4 x 4 until the tongue of the trailer is supported by it. Multiply the scale
reading by three. This will be the tongue weight of your trailer. If you exceed the
Bathroom Scale
Pipe
2 FT.
1 Ft.
Pipe
Wood Support
between the wood and scales.
Note: Be sure trailer is level when you read scales.
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HITCHING UP
Hitching up your trailer is something that will become almost second nature
with practice. The following section includes proper hitch load distribution and
a procedure for hitching up.
Equalizing Hitch Load Distribution
When a trailer is hitched up properly to a tow vehicle with a load equalizing
hitch, approximately 1/3 of the trailer’s tongue weight will be on the trailer’s
axles and 2/3 will be transferred to the tow vehicle, 1/3 of this weight transfer
will be carried by the front wheels and 1/3 by the rear wheels of the tow vehicle
(See diagram), Thus, the tire load of each wheel on the tow vehicle will be
increased by 1/6 of the trailer’s tongue weight. The tire air pressure of the tow
vehicle should be increased to compensate for this additional weight. Refer to
the vehicle’s owner’s manual for this information.
Warning: The tongue weight should he approximately 10% to
15% of the trailer’s total weight. Under no condition should it exceed the
hitch rating. Your hitch installer should provide your hitch rating informa-
tion to you.
Percentage of Tongue Load
distributed to car and or trailer wheels
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Sway Control Device
Although Airstream has not intruded into the hitch manufacturers field of exper-
tise and preformed formal testing, we find the vast majority of Airstream owners
purchases sway-control devices.
When passed by large trucks or when exposed to sudden crosswinds the
trailer will be “pushed” and this action will be felt in the tow vehicle. It’s our
understanding the sway control devices will reduce the amount of movement
and make towing more comfortable and add some safety.
Follow the directions of the sway control manufacturer when having it installed
and using it.
Steps for Hitching Up
The following steps are for a typical hitch system and are not meant to
supercede instructions and training provided for the hitch installed on
your tow vehicle. Please follow instructions and training provided with
your hitch and its installer.
1. Jack up the trailer hitch until there is clearance for the HITCH BALL to slide
under. Remove the safety pin, slide the locking lever forward and raise. Back
the tow vehicle straight back to the hitch. This can best be accomplished
through the use of prearranged hand signals with the help of another person;
but if you are hitching up by yourself we recommend the use of a HOOK-UP
VIEW MIRROR or a rear view camera system.
2. Lower the trailer hitch onto the hitch ball. Then close the locking lever and
insert safety pin.
then attach the LEVELING BARS. Lever the tension on the bars. Lower the tow
vehicle and trailer.
The hitch ball should be level to slightly higher. Readjust leveling bars until this
condition is correct by increasing or decreasing the length the chain engaged in
“A” frame saddle bracket. Short chain raises hitch ball, longer chain lowers it.
A level condition will result in the best balance for towing and steering control
as the weight-equalizing hitch distributes the hitch load.
A low hitch ball increases tail wagging tendencies by lowering the nose of
the trailer, thus changing the center of support for the trailer and reducing the
weight on the four wheels of the tow vehicle. With proper hitch installation
and hitching up, the bar should have a noticeable amount of the deflection or
bending. A little practice with your rig will teach you how far to pull the bar; you
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may wish to mark the chain links that match your rig.
Always choose level ground for checking correct hookup.
Note: If you’re tow vehicle is equipped with adjustable load leveling air shocks,
bring it back to level. Then attach the trailer and adjust the load leveling bars.
Otherwise the air shocks on the tow vehicle will overload the rear wheels. Do
not use air shocks to level tow vehicle and trailer after hitching up.
Note: Leveling the trailer end to end, then measuring from the ground to the
inside top of the ball socket determines hitch ball height for the tow vehicle
frame, but never to the removable ball mount. Cross the safety chains under
the hitch.
leveling jack and other gear used when stopped.
may cause them to open with possible damage.
nOTiCE; Retract the hitch jack completely for maximum ground clear-
ance. NEVER TOW YOUR TRAILER WITH THE JACK DOWN.
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6. Move the rig ahead about 50 feet and test the trailer brakes, then check the
ground for forgotten objects. Regularly check the condition of your tires, air
pressure, and the tightness of your lug nuts.
CHECK WHEEL NUTS
On first trip, tighten wheel nuts at start and at 10, 25, and 100 miles. See Chart
in Specification Section in this manual for wheel torque ratings. There
winter storage.
nOTiCE; Check that the foldaway step is up and LOCKED in its store
position and that the main door is completely closed and the dead bolt
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TOWING TIPS
A few hours of towing practice in a large empty supermarket lot will make pull-
ing your trailer over the road much easier. Line out two corners for left and right
turns. You may also use these corners to practice backing and parking.
After thoroughly inspecting your hitch, brakes, and tires you should be ready to
tow. Check traffic, signal that you are about to pull away, and start slowly. Look
often in your mirrors, and observe the action of the trailer, then carefully move
into the proper lane of traffic. Remember that the trailer wheels will not follow
the path of the tow vehicle wheels; therefore, WIDER TURNS ARE NECESSARY
WHEN TURNING TO THE LEFT OR TO THE RIGHT.
We want every owner to be a safe and courteous driver. On a two-lane road
cars may be lining up behind you because you travel at a lower speed. It is both
courteous and sensible to signal, pull onto the shoulder, and let them pass.
careful you may be inclined to forget it is there.
The BRAKE CONTROLLER is activated when you apply the brakes of the tow
vehicle. Your tow vehicle brakes will automatically apply the trailer brakes first
when properly adjusted. This will help keep your tow vehicle and trailer in a
straight line and make you stop as if you were driving the tow vehicle alone.
If swaying or swerving should occur, briefly operating the controller separate
from the vehicle brakes may help correct the situation. Practice this maneuver
on a clear highway. Don’t wait for an emergency then grope for the controller.
When trailering you might encounter a temporary cooling system overload
during severe conditions such as hot days when pulling on a long grade, when
slowing down after higher speed driving, or driving long idle periods in traffic
jams. If the hot indicator light comes on, or the temperature gauge indicates
overheating and you have your air conditioner turned on, turn it off. Pull over
Increase the engine idle speed. Lift the engine hood and check for fluid leaks
at the radiator overflow outlet. Check to see that all drive belts are intact and
the fan is turning. If you have a problem have it fixed at the next opportunity. If
there is no problem, the light should go off or temperature should come down
within one minute. Proceed on the highway a little slower. Ten minutes later
resume normal driving.
DangEr: Never open a radiator cap when the tow vehicle is hot.
owner’s manual and follow all instructions on the cooling system.
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Tracking
OBSERVE THAT THE TRACKS MADE BY THE TRAILER WHEELS ARE
DISTINCTLY DIFFERENT FROM THOSE MADE BY THE TOW VEHICLE.
Studying this will make it easier for you to correct mistakes. Truck or trailer type
fender or door grip rear view mirrors are a must for maximum visibility and in
most states the law requires them.
Passing
ON FREEWAYS OR EXPRESSWAYS try to pick the lane you want and stay in
it. Always maintain plenty of space between you and the car ahead, at least the
length of the tow vehicle plus trailer for every ten miles per hour. Remember
that in order to pass another vehicle you will need longer to accelerate. You
must also allow for the length of the trailer when returning to the right hand
lane.
When going downhill in dry weather, down shift so that engine compression
will slow the whole rig down. Take dips and depressions in the road slowly and
do not resume normal driving speeds until you are sure that the trailer wheels
are clear of the dip.
Warning: 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.
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NOTICE: When driving in mud and sand let the momentum carry the rig
through. Apply power gently and use as little as possible. Stay in the tracks of
the vehicle ahead and keep the tow vehicle in the highest possible gear. If you
get stuck it is best to tow out the entire rig together without unhitching.
Despite the best hitch you will notice that whenever a large bus or truck
overtakes your rig the displaced air first pushes the trailer rear slightly to the
right and then affects the front. It may be necessary to steer very slightly, mo-
mentarily, 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 find, however, that briefly applying the trailer
brakes with your manual control will help eliminate sway.
Warning: When stopping on a hill or slope, leaving your tow
vehicle in gear is not enough for standstill safety. CHOCK THE TRAILER
WHEELS to be double sure. Do not use trailer brakes as parking brakes.
Backing Up
In BACKING UP the important thing to remember is to DO EVERYTHING
SLOWLY and to correct immediately if you see the trailer turning the wrong
way. Concentrate on the rear of the trailer. With your tow vehicle and trailer in
a straight line back up slowly and turn the bottom of the steering wheel in the
direction you want the trailer to go. Watch out the window or in the mirror until
the rear of the trailer is pointing in the desired direction. Your vehicle will be
following the trailer in an arc. Straighten the tow vehicle and trailer by turning
the steering wheel more sharply, and then when they are in line, straighten the
steering wheel.
ALWAYS TRY TO BACK TO YOUR LEFT BECAUSE THE VISIBILITY IS MUCH
BETTER. (See Illustration) When you don’t make it on the first try it is usually
much easier to pull forward to your original position and start over.
If your spouse or traveling companion normally directs you when backing they
should position themselves forward of the tow vehicle so the driver can easily
see them. Their directions should always indicate to the driver the direction
the rear of the trailer should go. A little practice in a parking lot with the person
giving directions can save a lot of frustration when backing into a campsite.
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