Gulf Stream 8404 WFD Owner's Manual

www.gulfstreamRV.com

GULF STREAM COACH OPERATOR’S MANUAL

Congratulations!

You are the proud owner of a new GULF STREAM COACH motor home,
a remarkable recreational vehicle that has been engineered, tested and built to
meet your traveling and relaxation needs for many pleasurable years to come.

Many thousands of individuals have preceded you onto the highways of
America, Canada and Mexico in GULF STREAM vehicles, enjoying the beauty of
nature and the companionship of good people. Through personal contacts, both
on the road and over the phone, GULF STREAM’s engineering and
manufacturing staff has learned a lot about how our customers utilize their
vehicles. We’ve put thousands of miles on our own test vehicles over the same
roads many of our customers travel each year.

It’s been our experience that if a customer plans well, follows the basic
rules of the road and the design limitations placed on their vehicle and its
equipment, that they will enjoy thousands of carefree miles.

That’s why we’ve included this operator’s manual in your Owner’s Packet
along with the individual instruction booklets for all your appliances, optional
equipment and detailed Operator’s Manuals from the manufacturer of your
chassis and motor. The more information you have available to you, the more
you will get out of your new vehicle.

Please read over this manual and all the other owner’s manuals included
in your packet. It will make your initial trips in your new GULF STREAM much
more pleasurable and save time in the long haul.

Good traveling and good camping!

Sincerely,

GULF STREAM COACH, INC.
PO Box 1005
Nappanee, Indiana 46550

TABLE OF CONTENTS

GULF STREAM WARRANTY………………………………………………………………………………………… 1
LP GAS SAFETY………………………………………………………………………………………………………….. 2
GENERAL SAFETY………………………………………………………………………………………………………. 3

SEAT BELT USAGE…………………………………………………………………………………………………….…….. 3
CHILD’S SAFETY SEATS…………………………………………………………………………………………………….. 3
SEAT BELT MAINTENANCE…………………………………………………………………………………………………. 4
SEAT BELT MOUNTING……………………………………………………………………………………………………… 4
FIRE SAFETY………………………………………………………………………………………………………………….. 4
SMOKE DETECTOR………………………………………………………………………………………………………….. 4
CARBON MONOXIDE SAFETY……………………………………………………………………………………………… 4
LP GAS SAFETY………………………………………………………………………………………………………………. 5
GASOLINE TANK SAFETY…………………………………………………………………………………………………… 5

VEHICLE LOADING……………………………………………………………………………………………………… 5

CARRYING CAPACITY……………………………………………………………………………………………………….. 5
LOADING TIPS………………………………………………………………………………………………………………… 5
MANUFACTURER’S LABELS…………………………………………………………………………………………………6
FEDERAL WEIGHT DEFINITIONS………………………………………………………………………………………….. 6
DETERMINING WEIGHT AND WEIGHT DISTRIBUTION………………………………………………………………… 7
METHOD OF WEIGHING YOUR VEHICLE………………………………………………………………………………… 7
WEIGHT DISTRIBUTION FORMULAS……………………………………………………………………………………… 7
VEHICLE WEIGHT PLANNING GUIDE…………………………………………………………………………………….. 8
AIR BAG WARNING…………………………………………………………………………………………………………… 8
DANGERS OF OVERLOADING……………………………………………………………………………………………… 8
VEHICLE TOWING (DINGHY)……………………………………………………………………………………………….. 9
VEHICLE WEIGHT INFORMATION LABEL………………………………………………………………………………… 9

TIRES………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………….. 9

TIRE MARKINGS………………………………………………………………………………………………………………. 9
TIRE LOAD RATINGS………………………………………………………………………………………………………… 9
TIRE AIR PRESSURE………………………………………………………………………………………………………… 9
TIRE MAINTENANCE…………………………………………………………………………………………………………. 9

EMERGENCY TOWING OF THE MOTOR HOME……………………………………………………………. 10
DAY-TO-DAY OPERATION…………………………………………………………………………………………… 10

DRIVING TECHNIQUES……………………………………………………………………………………………………… 10
GROUND CLEARANCE………………………………………………………………………………………………………. 10
WARM WEATHER/HIGH ELEVATION OPERATION……………………………………………………………………… 10

DRIVER CONTROLS…………………………………………………………………………………………………….. 10

BRAKES………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………… 10
ANTI-LOCKING BRAKING SYSTEMS (ABS)………………………………………………………………………………. 11
PAC BRAKES AND JAKE BRAKES…………………………………………………………………………………………. 11
DASHBOARD INSTRUMENTS………………………………………………………………………………………………. 11
UNUSED DASHBOARD SWITCH LOCATIONS…………………………………………………………………………… 12
DASH SWITCH SYMBOLS…………………………………………………………………………………………………… 12
STARTING AND VEHICLE WARM UP……………………………………………………………………………………… 12
TURBO DIESEL OPERATING INSTRUCTIONS………………………………………………………………………….. 12
JUMP STARTING……………………………………………………………………………………………………………… 12

COACH SYSTEMS……………………………………………………………………………………………………….. 13

SAFETY…………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………. 13
ELECTRICAL…………………………………………………………………………………………………………………… 13
12-VOLT/110-VOLT……………………………………………………………………………………………………………. 13
30-AMP AND 50-AMP 110-VOLT SERVICE………………………………………………………………………………... 14
POWER CONVERTER………………………………………………………………………………………………………... 15
GROUND FAULT INTERRUPTER…………………………………………………………………………………………… 15
AUTOMOTIVE 12-VOLT SYSTEM……………………………………………………………………………………………15
BATTERY……………………………………………………………………………………………………………………….. 16
BATTERY TYPES AND CHARGING………………………………………………………………………………………… 16
ONBOARD AUXILIARY POWER GENERATOR…………………………………………………………………………… 16
INVERTER……………………………………………………………………………………………………………………… 16

MONITOR PANEL……………………………………………………………………………………………………………… 17
SOLAR CHARGER…………………………………………………………………………………………………………….. 17
TELEVISION 12 VOLT ELECTRICAL CONNECTION………………………………………………………………….…. 17
TV ANTENNA AND CABLE CONNECTIONS………………………………………………………………………………. 17

LP GAS……………………………………………………………………………………………………………………….. 18

GENERAL………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………. 18
CLIMATE DIFFERENCES…………………………………………………………………………………………………….. 18
OPERATION……………………………………………………………………………………………………………………. 18
FILLING THE LP TANK……………………………………………………………………………………………………… 19
GAS LINE CHECK……………………………………………………………………………………………………………. 19
REGULATOR PRESSURE……………………………………………………………………………………………………. 19
GAS TANK AND REGULATOR FREEZE UP………………………………………………………………………………. 19
HOSE REPLACEMENT……………………………………………………………………………………………………….. 19
REGULATOR VENT MAINTENANCE……………………………………………………………………………………….. 19

PLUMBING………………………………………………………………………………………………………………….. 20

FRESH WATER………………………………………………………………………………………………………………… 20
CITY WATER…………………………………………………………………………………………………………………… 20
WATER TANK………………………………………………………………………………………………………………… 20
QUICK FILL WATER SUPPLY……………………………………………………………………………………………….. 20
SANITIZING THE WATER TANK……………………………………………………………………………………………. 20
WATER PUMP………………………………………………………………………………………………………………… 21
SECONDARY WATER PUMP SWITCH…………………………………………………………………………………… 21
WINTERIZING THE WATER PUMP……………………………………………………………………………………….. 21
WATER MANIFOLD SYTEM………………………………………………………………………………………………… 21
WINTERIZING BYPASS ON MANIFOLD………………………………………………………………………………….. 21
DRAINAGE AND SEWER……………………………………………………………………………………………………. 21
DRAINAGE P-TRAPS………………………………………………………………………………………………………… 22
HOLDING TANKS…………………………………………………………………………………………………………….. 22
EMPTYING HOLDING TANKS……………………………………………………………………………………………… 22
HOLDING TANK MAINTENANCE………………………………………………………………………………………….. 22
DO’S AND DON’TS OF HOLDING TANK USE…………………………………………………………………………… 22
HOLDING TANK FLUSH SYSTEM…………………………………………………………………………………………. 22
WATER SYSTEM WINTERIZING…………………………………………………………………………………………… 23

APPLIANCES………………………………………………………………………………………………………………. 23

WATER HEATER……………………………………………………………………………………………………………… 24
RANGE…………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………. 24
MICROWAVE…………………………………………………………………………………………………………………… 24
REFRIGERATOR………………………………………………………………………………………………………………. 24
FURNACE………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………. 24
AIR CONDITIONER (ROOF)…………………………………………………………………………………………………..25
FANTASTIC FAN OPERATION………………………………………………………………………………………………. 25

EFFECTS OF LONG TERM OCCUPANCY……………………………………………………………………… 25
SLIDE OUT SYSTEMS………………………………………………………………………………………………….. 25

SLIDE OUT KILL SWITCH……………………………………………………………………………………………………. 26
SLIDE OUT BREAKER SWITCH…………………………………………………………………………………………… 26
SLIDE OUT WEATHER SEALS……………………………………………………………………………………………… 26

VEHICLE MAINTENANCE…………………………………………………………………………………………… 26

CORROSION PROTECTION……………………………………………………………………………………………….. 27

LEVELING JACKS………………………………………………………………………………………………………. 27

LEVELING JACK CIRCUIT BREAKER…………………………………………………………………………………….. 27

AWNINGS……………………………………………………………………………………………………………………. 27

AWNING CARE………………………………………………………………………………………………………………… 28

REPORTING SAFETY DEFECTS…………………………………………………………………………………… 28
PRE-TRIP CHECKLIST…………………………………………………………………………………………………. 29
INDEX…………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………. 30
GULF STREAMERS INTERNATIONAL RV CLUB APPLICATION…………………………………….. 32

GULF STREAM WARRANTY AND
WARRANTY SERVICE

GULF STREAM COACH, INC. LIMITED
WARRANTY

IN THE UNITED STATES AND CANADA

1. WHAT IS COVERED

Your new recreational vehicle has a limited warranty by Gulf Stream
Coach, Inc. ("Gulf Stream") to the original purchaser as follows:

a) A two (2) year or 24,000 miles of use warranty (whichever

comes first) against structural defects in floors, walls and
roof.

b) A full one (1) year or 12,000 mile total use warranty

(whichever comes first) under normal use against defects
in materials and/or workmanship in the construction of the
vehicle and its original components.

The warranty coverage starts on the date the original retail purchaser
takes possession of such recreational vehicle. This Limited Warranty
covers only those defects which occur or exist within the period or periods
referenced above and which are specifically identified to Gulf Stream
Coach, Inc. in the manner specified in Section 3 of this Limited Warranty.
All obligations of Gulf Stream pursuant to this Limited Warranty are
limited to replacing or repairing the defective part or component.

This Limited Warranty is expressly IN LIEU of any other express
warranty and is further IN LIEU of any implied warranty, including,
but not limited to, any implied WARRANTY OF
MERCHANTABILITY or FITNESS for a particular purpose except as
may otherwise be required by applicable valid Federal or State law at
time of manufacture.

2. WHAT ARE THE DEALER'S OBLIGATIONS

The independent Gulf Stream dealer, by agreement with Gulf Stream,
will maintain the recreational vehicle until retail sold; will perform a
comprehensive pre-delivery check procedure and inspection; will repair or
replace any identified defective parts; will correct identified defects in
workmanship; will present the retail owner with a copy of this warranty
prior to the retail owner's entering into any written contract to purchase a
recreational vehicle; and will mail to Gulf Stream a warranty registration
notice and the signed Limited Warranty.

3. WHAT ARE THE RETAIL OWNER'S
OBLIGATIONS

The retail owner is responsible for the normal maintenance as described
in the Owner's Manual; however, minor adjustments (such as adjustments
to the interior or exterior doors, LP regulator pressure, cabinet latches, TV
antenna control, etc.) will be performed by the dealer during the first 90
days of warranty coverage. Thereafter, such adjustments are the
responsibility of the owner as normal maintenance unless required as a
direct result of repair or replacement of a defective part under this Limited
Warranty.

If a problem occurs which the owner thinks is covered by this Limited
Warranty, the owner is responsible to contact Gulf Stream Coach, Inc. by
certified mail, return receipt requested, giving specific notice of the
problem(s) being experienced with the recreational vehicle. Such notice
must be sent to the Director of Service, Gulf Stream Coach, Inc., P.O. Box
1005, Nappanee, Indiana 46550. Gulf Stream will arrange for repair or
replacement of parts or workmanship identified as defective by Gulf
Stream. The owner is advised that he/she must notify Gulf Stream of any
items believed to require warranty service. Gulf Stream reserves the right
to cure all warranty claims. Service work conducted by any party not
specifically authorized by Gulf Stream to undertake such work is
specifically not covered by this Limited Warranty and WILL VOID THIS
LIMITED WARRANTY.

The owner agrees to maintain all evidence of any defect or damage
through the ultimate resolution of any claim and make such evidence
available to Manufacturer and further agrees that the failure to preserve
evidence will result in loss of the claim.

The owner, at his expense, will deliver the recreational vehicle to the
dealer or authorized repair location or manufacturing plant for warranty
service as designated.

4. WHAT IS NOT COVERED BY EXPRESS
WARRANTY

• THIS LIMITED WARRANTY DOES NOT COVER RETAIL SOLD UNITS FOR WHICH
GULF STREAM HAS NOT RECEIVED THE GULF STREAM COACH, INC.
WARRANTY REGISTRATION NOTICE.

• THE AUTOMOTIVE SYSTEM (INCLUDING THE CHASSIS AND DRIVE TRAIN AND
ANY PART OF THAT CHASSIS ASSEMBLED BY THE CHASSIS
MANUFACTURER), TIRES, BATTERIES, AUXILIARY GENERATOR POWER
PLANTS WHICH ARE COVERED BY THE RESPECTIVE MANUFACTURERS OF
THESE COMPONENTS.

• FAILURE WHICH MAY BE CAUSED BY, OR RELATED TO ABUSE, MISUSE,
NEGLIGENCE, OR ACCIDENT, FAILURE WHICH MAY BE RELATED TO
ALTERATION OR MODIFICATION, FAILURE AS A RESULT OF NOT FOLLOWING
INSTRUCTIONS CONTAINED IN THE OWNER'S MANUAL.

• NORMAL DETERIORATION DUE TO WEAR OR EXPOSURE, SUCH AS FADING OF
FABRICS OR DRAPES, CARPET WEAR, EXTERIOR SURFACES, ETC.

• MAINTENANCE ITEMS: SUCH AS LIGHT BULBS, FUSES, WIPER BLADES,
LUBRICANTS, MINOR ADJUSTMENTS.

• USE OF THE RECREATIONAL VEHICLE FOR ANY COMMERCIAL OR RENTAL
PURPOSE VOIDS THE WARRANTY FROM THE TIME THAT THE VEHICLE IS
FIRST USED FOR A COMMERCIAL OR RENTAL PURPOSE AND AT ALL TIMES
THEREAFTER.

• MOTOR HOMES ON WHICH THE ODOMETER READING HAS BEEN ALTERED.

• TRANSPORTATION TO AND FROM DEALER OR MANUFACTURING PLANT
LOCATION, AND CONSEQUENTIAL AND INCIDENTAL EXPENSE SUCH AS , BUT
NOT LIMITED TO, LOSS OF TIME, COMMERCIAL LOSS, LOSS OF USE, TOWING
CHARGES, LODGING, FOOD, PHONE CALLS, INCONVENIENCE, BUS OR PLANE
FARES, OR RENTAL CHARGES.

• ANY DEFECTS OR SHORTAGES READILY APPARENT ON DELIVERY TO THE
INITIAL RETAIL PURCHASER UNLESS NOTED ON DELIVERY SHEET
COMPLETED BY THE DRIVER TRANSPORTING THE RECREATIONAL VEHICLE
TO THE INDEPENDENT DEALER.

• ANY COMPONENT PART W HICH POSSESSES ITS OWN WARRANTY FROM A
PARTY OTHER THAN GULF STREAM.

5. IMPORTANT FACTS

• Please inspect your recreational vehicle at the time of delivery and
make sure you accept it as delivered to you. This recreational
vehicle has been sold to an independent dealer, and not an agent of
Gulf Stream, for resale in the ordinary course of the dealer's business,
on terms and conditions and equipped as he and you determine, and
your agreement is solely with the dealer, not Gulf Stream. Gulf
Stream does not participate in retail sales or retail contracts in any
instance, other than by terms of this Limited Warranty.

• Gulf Stream reserves the unrestricted right at any time and from time
to time to make changes in the design of and/or improvements upon
its product without thereby imposing any obligation upon itself to
make corresponding changes or improvements in or upon its
products already manufactured. Gulf Stream further reserves the
right to substitute parts or components of substantially equal quality
in any warranty service required by operation of this Limited
Warranty.

• Like any other product, a recreational vehicle and the products
installed in it will require care and maintenance attention by the
owner and occupants. Please read and follow all care and
maintenance manuals and instructions supplied with your
recreational vehicle.

6. JURISDICTION AND APPLICABLE LAW

Exclusive jurisdiction for deciding any claims, demands or causes of
action for defects or representations of any nature or damages due from
such defects or representations shall be in the courts in the State of
Manufacture. The laws applicable to any litigation, dispute, mediation,
arbitration or any claim whatsoever arising, from the sale, purchase, or use
of the recreational vehicle shall be those of the State of Manufacture.

7. ARBITRATION - MEDIATION

At the option of Gulf Stream, any dispute concerning a manufacturing
defect shall be subject to mediation or arbitration conducted in the State of

1

Manufacture. In the case of arbitration, the arbitrator shall be selected from
the American Arbitration Association (AAA).

Gulf Stream Coach, Inc. is not responsible for any representation or
warranty that is not herein stated. Some states do not allow the exclusion or
limitation of incidental or consequential damages.

This warranty gives you specific legal rights and you may also have

other rights that may vary from state to state.

I HEREBY ACKNOWLEDGE THAT I HAVE READ AND
RECEIVED A COPY OF THE ABOVE WARRANTY FOR GULF
STREAM COACH PRIOR TO ENTERING INTO ANY CONTRACT
TO PURCHASE MY GULF STREAM RECREATIONAL VEHICLE
AND AGREE TO ABIDE BY ALL OF ITS TERMS AND
PROVISIONS INCLUDING, BUT NOT LIMITED TO, THE
PROVISIONS HEREOF PROVIDING THAT THE EXCLUSIVE
JURISDICTION FOR ANY CLAIMS WHATSOEVER SHALL BE IN
THE COURTS IN THE STATE OF MANUFACTURE AND THAT
THE APPLICABLE LAW SHALL BE THE LAW OF THE STATE
OF MANUFACTURE

MODEL

DATE

SIGN _
Effective December 1997

SERIAL NUMBER _

SIGN _

Authorized dealers are independent contractors and
independently owned businesses. This is also true of the
authorized chassis service dealers.

Gulf Stream Coach, Inc. desires that you have full
enjoyment of your new Gulf Stream recreational
vehicle. If for any reason your vehicle is out of service
and cannot be used because of a manufacturing or
chassis defect for a cumulative total of seven (7) days
during the warranty period, you are to immediately
contact Gulf Stream Coach, Inc., by certified mail,
return receipt requested, setting forth the service
problems and asking for immediate assistance. Gulf
Stream Coach, Inc. is ready, willing and able to make
every effort for a quick response.

WARRANTY SERVICE

1. Warranty service, under your Limited

Warranty, is to be performed by your
authorized Gulf Stream dealer from whom you
purchased your unit or by an authorized
service center for those appliances and
equipment not maintained by Gulf Stream.
Your dealer has a vested interest in your
satisfaction, therefore, if at all possible; it is
best to return to your dealer for service.

2. If you are traveling or move, any authorized

dealer may provide service. Keep your
warranty registration form with the vehicle at all
times since it must be presented for warranty
service. This form is your proof of purchase
and provides the date of retail sale, both of

which are necessary to determine warranty
eligibility.

3. If you cannot locate an authorized Gulf Stream
dealer contact:
GULF STREAM COACH, INC.
PO Box 1005
Nappanee, IN 46550

1.800.482.6456

4. Other warranties - The retail customer is
responsible for completing and forwarding
warranty forms for all items not covered by
either the chassis manufacturer’s or Gulf
Stream’s warranty.

5. YOUR WARRANTY IS NOT VALID UNTIL IS
HAS BEEN SIGNED AND SUBMITTED TO
GULF STREAM COACH, INC!

Your authorized Gulf Stream Dealer from whom you
purchased your unit will assist you in service,
maintenance, selection of options, and instructions
concerning the operation of your recreational vehicle.
Occasionally, a warranty or service matter may not be
handled to your satisfaction. In this case, we
recommend that you discuss the problem with dealer
management. If you are unable to find satisfaction at
the dealer level, please contact the Gulf Stream
Service Department, where we will make our best
effort to reach an agreeable solution. In most
instances, we will eventually refer you back to the local
dealer with our recommendations.

LP GAS HEATING SYSTEM AND LP
GAS APPLIANCE SAFETY
REGULATIONS

The United States Government requires that the
manufacturer of this recreational vehicle provide the
following safety information that has been provided by
the National Fire Prevention Association (NFPA) and
the American National Standards Institute (ANSI). The
information contained below will also be found, along
with additional information, in other appropriate
sections of this operator’s manual. Refer to the Table
of Contents and the Index.

WARNING: LP GAS CONTAINERS SHALL NOT BE
PLACED OR STORED INSIDE THE VEHICLE. LP
GAS CONTAINERS ARE EQUIPPED WITH SAFETY
DEVICES THAT RELIEVE EXCESSIVE PRESSURE
BY DISCHARGING GAS TO THE ATMOSPHERE.

WARNING: IT IS EXTREMELY DANGEROUS TO
USE COOKING APPLIANCES FOR COMFORT
HEATING. COOKING APPLIANCES NEED FRESH
AIR FOR SAFE OPERATION. BEFORE OPERATION

2

(1) OPEN THE OVERHEAD VENT OR TURN ON AN
EXHAUST FAN AND (2) OPEN A NEARBY WINDOW.
A WARNING LABEL HAS BEEN PLACED IN THE
COOKING AREA OF THE VEHICLE TO REMIND
YOU THAT YOU MUST PROVIDE AN ADEQUATE
SUPPLY OF FRESH AIR FOR CUMBUSTION.
UNLIKE HOMES, THE AMOUNT OF AIR IN AN RV IS
LESS DUE TO ITS LIMITED SIZE (VOLUME).
PROPER VENTILATION WHEN USING COOKING
APPLIANCES WILL AVOID THE DANGERS OF
ASPHYXIATION. THE THREAT OF ASPHYXIATION
INCREASES WHEN A COOKING APPLIANCE IS
USED FOR LONG PERIODS OF TIME, THUS, THEY
SHOULD NEVER BE USED TO HEAT THE
INTERIOR OF THE VEHICLE.

WARNING: PORTABLE FUEL-BURNING
EQUIPMENT, INCLUDING CHARCOAL GRILLS AND
STOVES, SHALL NOT BE USED INSIDE THE RV.
THE USE OF THIS CATEGORY OF EQUIPMENT
INSIDE AN ENCLOSED SPACE MAY CAUSE
ASPHYXIATION AND CREATES A FIRE HAZARD.

WARNING: DO NOT BRING OR STORE LP GAS
CONTAINERS, GASOLINE OR OTHER FLAMMABLE
LIQUIDS INSIDE THE VEHICLE DUE TO THE
POSSIBILITY OF EXPLOSION AND FIRE.

A warning label has been attached near the LP gas
container. The label reads: DO NOT FILL
CONTAINER (S) TO MORE THAN 80 PERCENT OF
CAPACITY.
Uncontrolled gas flow can result from overfilling of LP
gas containers, resulting in a fire or explosion. A
properly filled container will contain approximately 80
percent of its volume as liquid.
The following label has been placed in the cooking
area of the vehicle:

IF YOU SMELL GAS:

1. Extinguish any open flame, pilot light and smoking
material.

2. Do not touch any electrical switch.

3. Shut off the LP gas supply at the tank valve(s) or
gas supply connection.

4. Open doors and other ventilating openings.

5. Leave the area until the odor clears.

6. Have the gas system checked and leakage source
corrected before using again.

LP gas regulators must always be installed with the
diaphragm vent facing down. Regulators that are not
in compartments have been equipped with a protective
cover. Make sure the regulator vent faces down and
the cover is kept in place to minimize vent blockage;
blockage could result in excessive gas pressure and,
therefore, possibly cause a fire or explosion.

Notice: All LP gas regulators are factory tested for
proper pressure output. Pressure output should be
checked periodically by a qualified LP dealer. Only
qualified persons should install, adjust or service LP
gas regulators. If service is needed contact a qualified
LP dealer.

APPROACHING THE OPEN ROAD IN A
PROFESSIONAL MANNER

As a proud owner and operator of a GULF STREAM
motor home you will be commanding one of the larger
privately owned vehicle using the nation’s roadways.
The only vehicles that will be as large or larger than
your “rig” will be trucks and buses of the professional
driver. Don’t let the car-like handling characteristics of
your new GULF STREAM lull you into a less than
vigilant attitude towards highway driving. Your safety,
the safety of your passengers and those on the road
alongside you depend on your “professional” driving
attitude.
Professional drivers approach their driving
responsibilities methodically from the outset of the trip.
They include thorough pre-trip planning and equipment
checks. They also include equipment checks along the
route and take into consideration driver fatigue.
GULF STREAM COACH, INC. provides this
operator’s manual so that you can approach your
driving in the most professional manner possible.
Read the manual carefully. Learn your vehicle’s
personality. And keep this manual handy for ready
reference. Before you know it, you and your machine
will be a “team” and you’ll be proud of the professional
manner in which you approach the serious business of
driving a large vehicle on the open road.

PREPARING FOR THE ROAD

GENERAL SAFETY

Seat Belt Usage

All seats designated for occupancy during travel are
equipped with seatbelts for the protection and safety of
passengers. Rear facing seats, as used in the dining
area, as well as those seats labeled ”Not for
occupancy while vehicle is in motion”, are not equipped
with seatbelts and should not be occupied while the
vehicle is in motion.

NOTE: MANY STATES HAVE PASSED LAWS
THAT REQUIRE SEATBELTS TO BE WORN BY ALL
PASSENGERS WHEN THE VEHICLE IS IN MOTION.

3

Child’s Safety Seats

NOTE: MANY STATES HAVE PASSED LAWS
THAT REQUIRE ALL PASSENGERS UNDER TWO
YEARS BE RESTRAINED BY USE OF AN INFANT’S
SAFETY SEAT, AND THOSE UNDER FOUR YEARS
BE RESTRAINED BY A CHILD SAFETY SEAT.
THESE SEATS MUST BE PROPERLY FITTED TO A
STANDARD LAP OR SHOULDER BELT. CONSULT
SEAT MANUFACTURER’S INSTRUCTIONS FOR
PROPER SECURING OF THESE SAFETY SEATS.

MANY STATES HAVE SPECIFCALLY OUTLAWED
THE PRACTICE OF HOLDING INFANTS IN THE
LAPS OF VEHICLE DRIVERS AND PASSENGERS.

AN INFANT OR CHILD SEAT SHOULD NEVER BE
PLACED IN THE FRONT PASSENGERS SEAT.
VEHICLES EQUIPPED WITH AIRBAGS CAN
INJURE OR KILL CHILDREN IN THIS LOCATION IF
AN ACCIDENT OCCURS.

When using seatbelts, always take up any slack belt
by pulling the excess strap through the adjusting
system. Unlatch the belt by pushing the button on the
buckle.

Seat Belt Maintenance

SEAT BELT ASSEMBLIES SHOULD BE
PERIODICALLY INSPECTED TO ASSURE THAT
THEY HAVE NOT BECOME DAMAGED AND THAT
THEY REMAIN IN PROPER OPERATING
CONDITION, PARTICULARLY IF THEY HAVE BEEN
SUBJECTED TO SEVERE STRESS.

Seat belt mounting

All seat belts are mounted per FMVSS Federal
requirements and should never be relocated. Anyone
who relocates a seat belt accepts full responsibility of
it’s consequences.

FIRE SAFETY

Prevention is the best form of fire safety. Carefully
follow the instructions for the care and operation of the
various appliances in your vehicle (see appropriate
sections).
Follow the same basic rules of fire prevention that
you use at home. DO NOT SMOKE IN BED. DO NOT
OVERLOAD THE ELECTRICAL SYSTEM. DO NOT
PERMIT CHILDREN NEAR THE LP GAS CONTROLS
OR CONTAINER. DO NOT STORE FLAMMABLE
LIQUIDS INSIDE THE UNIT.
Carry-over your fire preparedness from home to your
RV by having a pre -planned escape route. BE SURE

EVERYONE KNOWS WHERE THE EMERGENCY
EXITS ARE LOCATED AND HOW THEY OPERATE.
Your RV has been equipped with a fire extinguisher.
MAKE SURE EVERYONE KNOWS WHERE IT IS
LOCATED, HOW TO OPERATE IT AND WHAT
TYPES OF FIRES IT IS DESIGNED TO HANDLE.
Check the extinguisher on a regular basis to make
sure it is charged.

SMOKE DETECTOR

All units are equipped with a smoke detector. Check
its operation on a regular basis. If it does not check
properly, get is serviced or replaced prior to using the
coach again.

NOTE: IF A FIRE DOES START WITHIN THE UNIT,
GET ALL OCCUPANTS OUT IMMEDIATELY. IF IT IS
A SMALL FIRE, USE THE FIRE EXTINGUISHER. IF
THE FIRE IS NOT QUICKLY PUT OUT, GET OUT OF
THE VEHICLE. CONTACT THE FIRE
DEPARTMENT. IF POSSIBLE, CLOSE THE LP GAS
SERVICE VALVE. MOVE A SAFE DISTANCE FROM
THE VEHICLE.

CARBON MONOXIDE SAFETY

Carbon Monoxide is a colorless, odorless, tasteless
gas, which can be fatal if a high concentration builds
up in a sealed area over a period of time. Carbon
Monoxide is a by-product of burning fuel, and is found
in high concentrations in exhaust from gas burning
engines. A water heater or furnace operating
improperly can also produce Carbon Monoxide. Under
normal conditions your coach should be free from
Carbon Monoxide at any given time. Due to the safety
hazards of Carbon Monoxide (CO), each Gulf Stream
motor home is equipped with a CO Detector.

Carefully read the instructions included with your CO
detector to ensure proper use and maintenance. Most
CO detectors require only occasional dusting and
weekly testing. DO NOT use any type of cleaner
when dusting your CO detector. Doing so may render
the unit useless without warning.

Carbon Monoxide is often confused with illness such
as “flu like symptoms”. (Headaches, Nausea,
Dizziness). Such symptoms should be discussed with
all vehicle occupants. RV certified CO detectors will
sound an alarm if 100 PPM (parts per million) of CO is
present within 90 minutes. 50 PPM is allowed in a
work place for up to 8 hours. Cigarette smoke contains
about 5 PPM Carbon Monoxide.

If your CO alarm sounds, exit the vehicle
immediately. After exiting the vehicle take a head

4

count and make sure everyone is accounted for. Air
out the vehicle and check again to ensure that the
alarm came from the CO detector, as your vehicle is
also equipped with a smoke detector and LP gas
detector (optional). Following instructions included
with your CO detector is recommended.

LP GAS SAFETY

WARNING:

SHUT OFF ALL LP GAS SYSTEMS BEFORE
FILLING THE GASOLINE TANK.
LP appliances should never be operated while the
vehicle is in motion.
If the pungent odor of LP gas is detected immediately
shut off the LP gas valve and check the LP gas label
for further instructions. Your unit may be equipped
with an LP gas leak detector that will help you detect
the presence of LP gas. However, this detector should
not be relied upon solely; if you detect the smell of LP
gas, shut off the gas valve immediately.
Check other sections of this manual for more
information on the LP gas system.

GASOLINE TANK SAFETY

WARNING:

MODERN FUEL SYSTEMS MAY BUILD UP VAPOR
PRESSURE WITHIN THE GASOLINE TANK AS THE
GASOLINE WARMS DURING VEHICLE USE AND
DURING HOT WEATHER. UNDER CERTAIN
CONDITIONS THE SUDDEN RELEASE OF THIS
BUILT-UP PRESSURE BY THE REMOVAL OF THE
GASOLINE CAP CAN SPRAY GASOLINE FROM THE
FILLER OPENING, CREATING A POTENTIAL
HAZARD.
WHEN REMOVING THE GASOLINE FILLER CAP,
ROTATE IT SLOWLY TO ALLOW ANY INTERNAL
PRESSURE TO BE SLOWLY RELEASED. AFTER
THE “WHOOSH” OF THE RELEASED PRESSURE
PASSES, COMPLETELY REMOVE THE CAP.
ALWAYS REPLACE A LOST GAS CAP WITH A
CAP OF THE SAME DESIGN TO FORESTALL ANY
ADDED PROBLEMS.

VEHICLE LOADING

Carrying Capacity

During the design and development of our motor

homes, the number and size of storage compartments
and the liquid tank capacities are maximized for value
and convenience. If the motor home operator fills all

liquid tanks to capacity, fills all storage compartments
and cupboards to maximum volume and fills all
available seat belt positions with passengers, the
motor home will probably be overloaded. According to
National Highway Traffic Safety Administration figures,
an average vehicle occupant weighs 150 pounds, each
gallon of gasoline weighs six (6) pounds and each
gallon of water weighs over eight (8) pounds. The
operator is responsible for analyzing the conditions in
which the motor home will be utilized for each trip, and
ensuring the vehicle is not overloaded.
The number of passengers and placement of cargo
will affect the amount of water and cargo that you can
carry. The passenger capacity will vary depending on
whether the vehicle is being used for overnight
camping or day use. A smaller passenger capacity for
camping will provide a reasonable cargo capacity for
trips taking more than one day. The passenger
capacity for day use can be larger providing that less
cargo is carried for trips and activities not involving
overnight stays. It may be necessary to reduce the
amount of water carried and unload some cargo items
normally carried for camping in order to provide
carrying capacity for the additional one (1) day use
passengers.
Thoughtful consideration of the weight placed in the
motor home can yield important benefits:

• Maximum flexibility in the use of the liberal storage
facilities provided in the motor home;

• Improved handling characteristics and ride comfort;

• Better fuel mileage and reduced tire wear.

Periodically reweigh your motor home. Different
traveling configurations may change your loading and
weight pattern.

WARNING: DO NOT EXCEED THE RATED LOAD
OF THE MOTOR HOME OR THE RATED LOAD OF
ANY AXLE!

NOTE: THE CARRYING CAPACITY OF YOUR
MOTOR HOME CAN BE DETERMINED BY
WEIGHING, AS SHOWN IN FIG. 2. THE SHIPPING
WEIGHT DOES NOT NORMALLY INCLUDE
OPTIONS SUCH AS LEVELING JACKS, AWNINGS,
ROOF PODS, ETC. THE WEIGHT OF THESE ITEMS
MUST BE SUBTRACTED FROM THE TOTAL OF THE
PASSENGER AND CARGO CARRYING
CAPACITIES. IF YOU TOW A TRAILER, THE
TONGUE WEIGHT OF THE TRAILER MUST BE
SUBTRACTED FROM THE TOTAL OF THE
PASSENGER AND CARGO CARRYING
CAPACITIES.

Notice: Empty all holding tanks before filling fresh
water tank otherwise you will limit cargo and/or
passenger capacity. Normally campgrounds supply
free dump stations which can be utilized.

5

Loading Tips

After you have determined how much weight you can
safely carry and selected those items to make up that
weight, make a list and keep it for future reference.
Load the motor home and distribute the load so that
you get proper weight on the axles. Do not load upper
cabinets with heavy items. Secure and brace items so
they won’t move during travel, thereby shifting the load
in the motor home. Do not load heavy items near
either end of the motor home or on the rear bumper.
Adjust cargo storage to keep the side to side wheel
loads as equal as possible. Carry only as much water
as needed for travel use or to balance the load.
Always empty your waste water and sewage holding
tanks before traveling.

WARNING: DO NOT INSTALL ANY TYPE OF
WEIGHT CARRYING RACK OR FRAME TO THE
REAR BUMPER OR ANY CHASSIS OR BODY
COMPONENT OF THE MOTOR HOME. DAMAGE
TO THE MOTOR HOME AND UNSTABLE HANDLING
CHARACTERISTICS MAY RESULT.
WARNING: EXCEEDING THE GAWR, GVWR, OR
GCWR OF YOUR MOTOR HOME CAN CAUSE
UNDESIRABLE HANDLING CHARACTERISTICS
AND MAY CREATE A SAFETY HAZARD.
MODIFICATION OF YOUR VEHICLE BY ADDITION
OF RACKS NOT SPECIFIED BY THE
MANUFACTURER TO CARRY ADDITIONAL
EQUIPMENT OR VEHICLE IS NOT
RECOMMENDED, MAY CREATE A SAFETY
HAZARD, AND MAY VOID YOUR WARRATY.

Make a loading diagram of your properly loaded
motor home. It will help you locate where specific
items are stored, and will help speed the loading
process. Store emergency items in a readily
accessible location. Include tools, first-aid kit, rain
gear, flashlight, highway warning devices, and an
electric cord or light.
The difference between the empty weight and the
weight of the motor home in traveling configuration is
your usable load. If the loaded weight of your motor
home exceeds the GVWR or the weight on any axle
exceeds that axle’s GAWR, the motor home is
overloaded and you’ll have to remove items to bring
the weight down to or below the GVWR and GAWR.
All items must be considered for their weight and
stored according to how heavy they are. Heavy items
should be placed close to the floor and in the center of
the vehicle. DON’T FORGET TO INCLUDE THE
ITEMS YOU PURCHASE ON YOUR TRIP.
Luggage and similar cargo carried inside the vehicle
must be secured to prevent possible damage in the
case of a sudden stop or an accident. It is no good to
survive the initial impact of an accident to be hit on the
head by a flying object from inside your vehicle.

6

Manufacturer’s Labels

Your vehicle is equipped with several federally
required labels pertaining to the vehicle’s weight, load
capacity and operating limitations.
On the wall above or next to the driver is the federal
sticker that lists the unit’s manufacturer’s serial
number, the front and rear GROSS AXLE WEIGHT
RATING (GAWR), the vehicle’s GROSS VEHICLE
WEIGHT RATING (GVWR), tire and wheel rim sizes,
tire operating pressure, chassis serial number and the
VEHICLE IDENTIFICATION NUMBER (VIN). (FIG.1)

(FIG. 1) FEDERAL STICKER

(FIG. 2) WEIGHT INFORMATION LABEL

Federal Weight Definitions

GAWR: The allowable weight, INCLUDING CARGO

AND PASSENGERS, which can be SAFELY
supported by a specified axle.
GVWR: The maximum permissible weight of your
vehicle, INCLUDING CARGO, ALL OPTIONS,
PASSENGERS, GASOLINE AND WATER.

GCWR: The maximum permissible weight of your
fully loaded vehicle including the weight of any towed
vehicle or trailer.

Determining Weight and Weight Distribution

The total amount of weight carried by your vehicle is
extremely important. It is critical that you weigh your
vehicle prior to taking a trip in order to determine if you
are within the weight limitations of the vehicle’s
suspension. CHECK THE WEIGHT. CHECK THE
TIRE PRESSURE IN RELATIONSHIP TO THE
WEIGHT. See the Federal Sticker for the needed
information (FIG. 1).

FIG. 3) WEIGHING VEHICLE ON SCALES

The Method of Weighing Your Vehicle

There are many locations where you can weigh your
vehicle including grain elevators, scrap iron
businesses, sand and gravel dealers and state and
federal weight stations (usually listed in phone
directory).

NOTE: BE SURE TO WEIGH THE VEHICLE WITH
EVERYTHING IN IT INCLUDING PASSENGERS,
CARGO, FULL LP, GASOLINE AND WATER.
The procedure is as follows (FIG. 3)(unless modified
by the weighmaster):

1. Drive only the front axle of the unit onto the scale.
Have the weight master note this weight.

2. Drive forward and place both front and rear axles
onto the scale. Have the weigh master note this
weight.

3. Drive forward until only the rear axle is on the
scale. Have the weight master note this weight.

NOTE: COMPARE ALL WEIGHTS WITH THOSE
LISTED ON THE FEDERAL ID STICKER.

If any weight exceeds the listed rating, relocate the
passengers and redistribute or remove a portion of the
cargo until the weight is within the proper limit as listed
on the Federal ID Sticker and for which the vehicle has
been engineered.

NOTE: DO NOT FORGET THAT WATER USED
FROM THE FRESH WATER SUPPLY GOES INTO
THE WASTE WATER HOLDING TANK. IF YOU
REFILL THE FRESH WATER TANK PRIOR TO
DUMPING THE WASTE WATER, THE WEIGHT OF
THE VEHICLE IS SUBSTANTIALLY MORE THAN
WHEN YOU WEIGHED IT AT THE START OF YOUR
TRIP.

USEFUL WEIGHTS

Water……………………………8.328 pounds per gallon
Gasoline…………………………..6.0 pounds per gallon
Propane….………………………4.23 pounds per gallon

WEIGHT DISTRIBUTION FORMULAS

Inside Wheelbase: Number of inches behind front
wheel divided by vehicle wheelbase.
Example for a 178 inch wheelbase: A tool chest is
stored 36 inches behind the front wheel. Divided by
the 178 inch wheelbase equals 20 percent of the tool
chest’s weight added to the rear axle and 80 percent to
the front axle.
Outside Wheelbase: Determine the distance the
object is from the nearest axle. Divide by the
wheelbase.
Example: A motorcycle is hung on the rear bumper of
an RV. It is 144 inches behind the rear axle. Divide
the 144 by the vehicle’s 178 inch wheelbase and you
find that the motorcycle equals 80 percent more than
its actual weight….in other words it acts on the vehicle
as though it weighs 180 percent on the rear axle. THE
EXCESS OF 100 PERCENT IS TAKEN OFF THE
FRONT AXLE.
If the motorcycle weighs 300 pounds it acts on the
RV as though it weighs 540 pounds! Two hundred
forty pounds is also taken off the front axle.
Thus, you can see why the addition of any rack to the
vehicle will have an adverse affect on the driving
characteristics.

7

Vehicle Weight Planning Guide

The following guide will help you determine how
much you can load in your vehicle. We have included
the weights of common items added after the vehicle
leaves the factory.
MODEL NUMBER:
UNIT NUMBER:
CHASSIS MANUFACTUER:
UNIT FACTORY BASE WEIGHT:

OPTIONS: (Approx)LBS.

6.6 Generator 312

4.0 Generator 275

15.0 Roof AC 112

13.5 Roof AC 103

11.5 Roof AC 98
Electric Step 29
Spot Light 6
Fog Lights 3
Dash Fans 2
13” TV 23
19” TV 29
VCR 12
Awning 100
Microwave 58
Air Horns 24
Mini Satellite Dish 31
Back up Monitor 20
Hydraulic Jacks 250

OPTIONAL TOTAL:

FUEL WEIGHT
¼ Capacity
½ Capacity
¾ Capacity
Full

FRESH WATER WEIGHT
¼ Capacity
½ Capacity
¾ Capacity
Full

OCCUPANTS(limited to amount of seat belts)
(150 LBS. EACH)

GVWR =

SUBTRACT COMBINED
TOTAL WEIGHTS
FROM ABOVE -

EQUALS VEHICLE NET
CARRYING CAPACITY =

AIR BAG WARNING:

GULF STREAM COACH, INC. DOES NOT
APPROVE THE USE OF AFTER MARKET
SUSPENSION AIR BAGS ON ITS VEHICLES.
AFTER MARKET AIR BAGS, WE HAVE
DETERMINED, DO NOT PROPERLY SUPPLEMENT
THE SUSPENSION. INSTEAD, THEY INTERFERE
WITH THE RIDE AND HANDLING OF MOTOR
HOMES ENGINEERED BY THE CHASSIS
MANUFACTURER. SOME CHASSIS
MANUFACTURERS HAVE SPECIFIC NOTATIONS IN
THEIR CHASSIS MANUALS THE ADVISE THAT
SUPPLEMENTAL AIR BAGS CAN BE DESTRUCTIVE
TO THE VEHICLE AND INTERFERE WITH ITS ROAD
HANDLING CAPABILITIES.
DO NOT USE SUPPLEMENTAL AIR BAGS ON
YOUR MOTOR HOME! IF SUPPLEMENTAL
CAPABILITY FOR THE SUSPENSION IS DESIRED,
YOU ARE ATTEMPTING TO CARRY MORE CARGO
THAN THE VEHICLE WAS DESIGNED FOR.
UPGRADING WITH ADDITIONAL SPRINGS, HIGHER
CAPACITY SHOCK ABSORBERS, CO COIL-OVER
SHOCKS WILL ALSO VOID YOUR WARRANTY.
ALWAYS BE MINDFUL THAT YOUR VEHICLE WAS
DESIGNED FOR THE MAXIMUM WEIGHT TO
CARRY MORE WEIGHT IS DANGEROUS AND
SHOULD BE AVOIDED.
WE CANNOT APPROVE ANY AIR BAG
INSTALLATION. BEFORE MODIFYING YOUR
SUSPENSION, TALK TO YOUR CHASSIS DEALER.
AVOID CAUSING POSSIBLE DAMAGE TO YOUR
MOTOR HOME.

Dangers of Overloading

One of the attractive selling points of the GULF

STREAM is the abundance of storage, both inside and
outside the vehicle. However, there are limits to what
the vehicle can carry as shown above.
When preparing for a trip and while on your travels,
always be mindful of WHAT YOU ARE STORING,
HOW MUCH IT WEIGHS AND WHERE YOU ARE
STORING IT. BEWARE OF OVERLOADING.
In addition to causing premature wear, overloading
can cause problems in the area of handling
characteristics. An overloaded vehicle will take longer
(time and distance) to stop in an emergency.
Overloading can also cause added wear to
components such as tires, wheel bearings,
transmission and engine. Overloading can also cause
overheating it in some instances.
The solution? Stay on top of your vehicle weight
situation at all times. Know where you stand when it
comes to the GVWR, GAWR and GCWR.

8