Gulf Stream Nappanee, Indiana Owner's Manual
MOTORHOME
OWNER’S MANUAL
Nappanee, Indiana
GULF STREAMERS
INTERNATIONAL RV CLUB
APPLICATION – PAGE 42
GULF STREAM COACH MOTOR HOME OWNER’S MANUAL
Congratulations!
You are the proud owner of a new GULF STREAM COACH, INC. motor home, a
remarkable recreational vehicle that has been engineered, tested and built in Indiana 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
design limitations placed on their vehicle and its equipment, that they will enjoy thousands of
carefree miles.
That’s why we’ve included this Owner’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
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TABLE OF CONTENTS
GULF STREAM WARRANTY………………………………………………………………………………………………… 4
LP GAS SAFETY…………………………………………………………………………………………………………........ 7
PREPARING FOR THE OPEN ROAD – GENERAL SAFETY…………………………………………………………….8
SEAT BELT USAGE…………………………………………………………………………………………………….……... 8
CHILD’S SAFETY SEATS…………………………………………………………………………………………………….. 8
SEAT BELT MAINTENANCE…………………………………………………………………………………………………. 8
SEAT BELT MOUNTING………………………………………………………………………………………………………. 9
FIRE SAFETY……………………………………………………………………………………………………………………9
SMOKE DETECTOR…………………………………………………………………………………… ……………………… 9
CARBON MONOXIDE SAFETY……………………………………………………………………………………………….9
LP GAS SAFETY……………………………………………………………………………………………………………….. 9
GASOLINE TANK SAFETY………………………………………………………………………………………………….... 10
VEHICLE LOADING…………………………………………………………………………………………………………... 10
CARRYING CAPACITY……………………………………………………………………………………………………….. 10
LOADING TIPS…………………………………………………………………………………………………………………. 11
MANUFACTURER’S LABELS………………………………………………………………………………………………… 11
WEIGHT DEFINITIONS…………………………………………………………………………… ……………… …… …….. 12
WEIGHT LIMITATIONS, DISTRIBUTION AND VEHICLE HANDLING………………………………………………….. 12
METHOD OF WEIGHING YOUR VEHICLE………………………………………………………………………………… 12
WEIGHT DISTRIBUTION FORMULAS………………………………………………………………………… …… ……… 13
AIR BAG AND SUSPENSION MODIFICATION WARNING……………………………………………………………… 13
DANGERS OF OVERLOADING……………………………………………………………………………………………… 13
VEHICLE OR TRAILER TOWING………………………………………………………………………………………….... 14
VEHICLE WEIGHT INFORMATION LABEL………………………………………………………………………………… 14
TIRES……………………………………………………………………………………… ……………………………………. 14
TIRE MARKINGS………………………………………………………………………………………………………………. 14
TIRE LOAD RATINGS………………………………………………………………… ………………………………………. 15
TIRE AIR PRESSURE…………………………………………………………………………………………………………. 15
TIRE MAINTENANCE…………………………………………………………………………… ……………………………. 15
EMERGENCY TOWING OF THE MOTOR HOME…………………………………………………………………………. 16
DAY-TO-DAY OPERATION…………………………………………………………………………………………………... 16
DRIVING TECHNIQUES………………………………………………………………………………………… …………… 16
GROUND CLEARANCE………………………………………………… ……………… ………… ……………… …… …….. 16
WARM WEATHER/HIGH ELEVATION OPERATION……………………………………………………………………… 16
DRIVER CONTROLS…………………………………………………………………………………………………………. 17
BRAKES………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………… 17
ANTI-LOCKING BRAKING SYSTEMS (ABS)……………………………………………………………………………… 17
PAC BRAKES AND JAKE BRAKES………………………………………………………………………………………… 17
DASHBOARD INSTRUMENTS……………………………………………………………………………………………… 17
UNUSED DASHBOARD SWITCH LOCATIONS…………………………………………………………………………… 18
DASH SWITCH SYMBOLS……………………………………………………………………… …………………………… 18
STARTING AND VEHICLE WARM UP…………………………………………… ………………………………………… 18
TURBO DIESEL OPERATING INSTRUCTIONS…………………………………………………………………………… 19
JUMPSTA
RTING/EMERGENCYSTARTSWITCH……………………………………………………..…………………… 19
COACH SYSTEMS…………………………………………………………………………………………………………..… 19
SAFETY…………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………..19
ELECTRICAL…………………………………………………………………………………………………………………….20
12-VOLT/110-VOLT……………………………………………………………………… ……………………………………. 20
30-AMP AND 50-AMP 110-VOLT SERVICE……………………………………………………………………………….. 21
POWER CONVERTER………………………………………………………………………………………………………... 22
GROUND FAULT INTERRUPTER…………………………………………………… ……………………………………… 22
BATTERY…………………………………………………………………………………………… ………………………….. 23
BATTERY TYPES AND CHARGING………………………………………………………………………………………… 23
ONBOARD AUXILIARY POWER GENERATOR…………………………………………………………………………… 23
INVERTER………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………. 23
MONITOR PANEL……………………………………………………………………………………………………………… 24
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TV ANTENNA AND CABLE CONNECTIONS………………………………………………………………… ……………. 24
LP GAS…………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………. 25
GENERAL………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………. 25
CLIMATE DIFFERENCES…………………………………………………………………………………………………….. 25
OPERATION……………………………………………………………………………………………… ……………………. 25
FILLING THE LP TANK……………………………………………………………………………………………………….. 26
GAS LINE CHECK……………………………………………………………………………………………………………… 26
REGULATOR PRESSURE……………………………………………………………………………………………………. 26
GAS TANK AND REGULATOR FREEZE UP………………………………………………………………………………. 26
HOSE REPLACEMENT……………………………………………………………………………………………………….. 27
REGULATOR VENT MAINTENANCE……………………………………………………………………………………….. 27
PLUMBING…………………………………………………………………………………………………………………….. 27
FRESH WATER………………………………………………………………………… ……………… ………… …… ……… 27
CITY WATER…………………………………………………………………………… ……………………………………… 27
WATER TANK…………………………………………………………………………… …………………………………….. 27
QUICK FILL WATER SUPPLY……………………………………………………………………………………………….. 28
SANITIZING THE WATER TANK……………………………………………………………………… ……………………. 28
WATER PUMP…………………………………………………………………………………………………………………. 28
SECONDARY WATER PUMP SWITCH…………………………………………………………………………………….. 29
WINTERIZING THE WATER PUMP………………………………………………………………… ………………………. 29
WATER MANIFOLD SYTEM…………………………………………………………………………………………………. 29
WINTERIZING BYPASS ON MANIFOLD…………………………………………………………………………………… 29
DRAINAGE AND SEWER……………………………………………………………… …………………………………….. 29
DRAINAGE P-TRAPS………………………………………………………………………………………………………… 29
HOLDING TANKS……………………………………………………………………………………………………………… 29
EMPTYING HOLDING TANKS…………………………………………………………………………………… …………. 30
HOLDING TANK MAINTENANCE…………………………………………………………………………………………… 30
DO’S AND DON’TS OF HOLDING TANK USE…………………………………………………………………………….. 30
HOLDING TANK FLUSH SYSTEM………………………………………………………………………………………….. 31
WATER SYSTEM WINTERIZING……………………………………………………………………………………………. 31
APPLIANCES………………………………………………………………………………………………………………….. 31
WATER HEATER………………………………………………………………………………………… ………… …… ……. 32
RANGE…………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………. 32
MICROWAVE…………………………………………………………………………………………………………………… 32
REFRIGERATOR…………………………………………………………………… …………………………………………. 32
FURNACE………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………. 33
AIR CONDITIONER (ROOF)………………………………………………………………………………………………….. 33
FANTASTIC FAN OPERATION………………………………………………………………………………… ……………. 33
EFFECTS OF LONG TERM OCCUPANCY………………………………………… ……………………………………… 34
FORMALDEHYDE………………………………………………………………………………………………………………34
CONDENSATION AND MOLD……………………………………………………………………………………………….. 35
SLIDE OUT SYSTEMS………………………………………………………………………………………………………… 35
SLIDE OUT MANUALS AND TROUBLESHOOTING………………………………………… ……………………………. 35
SLIDE OUT KILL SWITCH……………………………………………………………………………………………………. 35
SLIDE OUT BREAKER SWITCH…………………………………………………………………………………………….. 36
SLIDE OUT WEATHER SEALS……………………………………………………………………………………………… 36
LEVELING JACKS……………………………………………………………………………………………………………. 36
LEVELING JACK CIRCUIT BREAKER……………………………………………………………………………………… 36
AWNINGS………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………. 36
AWNING CARE………………………………………………………………………………………………………………… 37
VEHICLE MAINTENANCE…………………………………………………………………………………………………… 37
WINDSHIELD, ROOF, SIDEWALL COMPONENTS………………………………………………………………………. 37
PAINT, FIBERGLASS AND SIDEWALL CAR………………………………………………………………………………. 38
CORROSION PROTECTION…………………………………………………………………………………………………. 38
REPORTING SAFETY DEFECTS…………………………………………………………………………………………… 38
PRE-TRIP CHECKLIST………………………………………………………………………………………………………. 39
INDEX…………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………… 40
GULF STREAMERS INTERNATIONAL RV CLUB APPLICATION…………………………………………………….. 42
3
GULF STREAM WARRANTY AND WARRANTY SERVICE
GULF STREAM COACH, INC. LIMITED WARRANTY
IN THE UNITED STATES AND CANADA
For Your Protection And Understanding, Read All Parts Of This Limited Warranty And All Other Warranties Furnished
With This Recreational Vehicle.
1. WHAT IS COVERED
A new Gulf Stream Coach, Inc. (“Gulf Stream”) motorized recreational vehicle has a limited warranty by Gulf Stream to the
initial retail purchaser and subsequent purchasers (“Purchaser”) under normal use, when sold by an authorized Gulf Stream dealer
and used for its intended purpose for recreational travel and camping as follows:
a) A one (1) year warranty under normal use against defects in Gulf Stream materials and/or workmanship in the
construction of the recreational vehicle.
b) A two (2) year warranty under normal use against structural defects in Gulf Stream materials and/or workmanship in
the construction of the floors, walls and roof.
The warranty coverage starts on the date the initial retail purchaser takes possession of such recreational vehicle. This
Limited Warranty covers only those defects which occur or exist within the applicable period(s) referenced above and
specifically identified to Gulf Stream in the manner specified in Section 4 of this Limited Warranty. All obligations of Gulf
Stream pursuant to this Limited Warranty are limited to replacing or repairing the defective part or compone nt.
2. DISCLAIMER OF WARRANTIES
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. To the extent that applicable state and/or federal law prohibits the exclusion of any remedy permitted
under state or federal law, any such remedy, including, but not limited to, implied warranties of fitness, use,
merchantability or purpose, is limited to one (1) year from the date the initial retail purchaser takes delivery of the
recreational vehicle.
3. WHAT ARE THE INDEPENDENT DEALER'S OBLIGATIONS
It is the responsibility of the ind ependent dealer (“dealer”) to maintain the recreational vehicle until retail sold; to perform a
comprehensive pre-retail delivery check procedure and inspection; to repair or replace any defective parts; to correct defects in
workmanship which are identified prior to initial retail purchaser’s taking delivery of the recreational vehicle; to present the initial
retail purchaser with this Limited Warranty prior to the in itial retail purchaser’s entering into any written contract to purchase a
recreational vehicle; and to mail to Gulf Stream the signed Gulf Stream Recreational Vehicle Registration Form and the signed
Limited Warranty.
4. WHAT ARE THE PURCHASER'S OBLIGATIONS
The Purchaser is responsible for all maintenance as described in the Gulf Stream Owner's Manual and/or any other care and
maintenance manual supplied with the recreational vehicle; 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 only
. Thereafter, such adjustments are the responsibility of the Purchaser as normal maintenance unless
required as a direct result of repair or replacement of a defective part under this Limited Warranty.
If an issue occurs which the Purchaser believes is covered by this Limited Warranty, Purchaser is responsible to promptly
contact Gulf Stream by certified mail, return receipt requested, giving specific notice of the issue(s) being experienced with the
recreational vehicle. Such notice must be addressed to the National Retail Service Manager, Gulf Stream Coach, Inc., P.O. Box
1005, Nappanee, Indiana 46550, and must be received by Gulf Stream within the earlier of 30 days after the issue is known to the
initial retail purchaser or 10 days subsequent to the expiration of this Limited Warranty. After proper notification has been
received by Gulf Stream Coach, Inc., failure of Purchaser to initiate prompt service of repairs approved by Gulf Stream within 30
days of approval WILL VOID ANY CLAIM FOR SUCH DEFECT OR DAM AG E.
Gulf Stream will arrange for repair or replacement, as determined by Gulf Stream, of Gulf Stream parts or workmanship
identified as defective by Gulf Stream and such parts replaced shall become property of Gulf Stream. Gulf Stream is ready,
willing and able to make every effort for a quick response. If for any reason the recreational vehicle is out of service, or is
anticipated to be out of service for a cumulative total of seven (7) days during the applicable warranty period, regardless of
which are
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whether the cause of such out of service time is covered by this Limited Warranty, the Purchaser is to immediately contact Gulf
Stream by certified mail, return receipt requested, setting forth the service issue(s). 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. Further, failure of the
Purchaser to comply with the notification provisions of this section WILL VOID THIS LIMITED WARRANTY.
The Purchaser must maintain all evidence of any defect or damage through the ultimate resolution of any claim and make such
evidence available to Gulf Stream. Failure to preserve such evidence will VOID ANY CLAIM FOR SUCH DEFECT OR
DAMAGE.
5. WHAT IS NOT COVERED BY LIMITED WARRANTY
• This Limited Warranty does not apply to any vehicle sold to the initial retail purchaser more than two years after
shipment to the authorized Gulf Stream selling dealer.
• The automotive systems including, but not limited to, tires, wheels, batteries, the chassis and drive train and any part
of that chassis
included/supplied by the chassis manufacturer.
• Appliances and component parts not manufactured by Gulf Stream, including, but not limited to, auxiliary g enerator
power plants, refrigerators, air conditioners, water heaters, furnaces, invertors, etc.
• Failure which may be caused by, or related to abuse, misuse, negligence, or accident; failure which may be related to
alteration(s) or modification(s), failure as a result of not following instructions contained in the Gulf Stream owner's
manual and/or any other care and maintenance manual supplied with the recreational vehicle.
• Deterioration due to wear or exposure, such as fading of fabrics or drapes, carpet wear, exterior surfaces, etc.
• Maintenance items, including, but not limited to, light bulbs, fuses, wiper blades, lubricants, minor adjustments,
wheel alignments.
• 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, service center or manufacturing plant location, nor any consequential and/or
incidental expenses 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, rental charges or storage fees.
Any defects or shortages at the time of delivery to the Purchaser unless noted on the driver and dealer acceptance form
•
or the driver evaluation sheet.
• Non-structural defects in the exterior fiberglass sidewall panels, including, but not limited to, checking, crazing,
cracking, chalking and/or porosity.
• Any component part which possesses its own warranty from a party other than Gulf Stream.
• Loss or damage caused by insurrection, riot, or act of the public enemy, loss or damage caused by
forces of nature, including but not limited to, flood, wind, storm, hurricane, tornado, blizzard,
explosion, or fire.
6. IMPORTANT FACTS
• The Purchaser must inspect the recreational vehicle at the time of delivery to ensure that it is acceptable as delivered. 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 the dealer and the initial retail purchaser determine, and the
initial retail purchaser’s agreement is solely with the dealer, not Gulf Stream. Gulf Stream does not participate in retail sales
or retail contracts.
• 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 recreational vehicles without thereby imposing any obligation upon itself to make corresponding
changes or improvements in or upon its recreational vehicles 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, warning labels, safety notices and
instructions supplied with the recreational vehicle.
• Authorized dealers and service centers are independent contractors and independently owned businesses. This is also true of
the authorized chassis dealers and service centers.
7. 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
5
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. The State of Manufacture of the recreational vehicle is Indiana.
This Limited Warranty gives Purchaser specific legal rights and the Purchaser may also have other rights that may vary from
state to state. Gulf Stream is not responsible for any representation or warranty that is not herein stated unless required by
applicable state or federal law. Some states may prohibit certain exclusions from express warranty coverage, and/or the exclusion
of remedies and implied warranties. Some states do not allow limitations on how long the Purchaser’s remedies are available or an
implied warranty lasts, so, to the extent applicable state law permits a remedy or an implied warranty obligation on the part of Gulf
Stream, the above limitation of remedies stated in Section 2 may not apply. Some states do not allow the exclusion or limitation of
damages, so, to the extent applicable state law does not permit such limitation or exclusion, the limitation and exclusions set forth
in Section 2 above may not apply. Consult your personal attorney to determine all rights under the state and federal consumer
laws, which may offer remedies in addition to or different from this Limited Warranty.
I/WE HEREBY ACKNOWLEDGE THAT I/WE HAVE READ AND RECEIVED THIS LIMITED WARRANTY PRIOR TO
ENTERING INTO ANY CONTRACT TO PURCHASE MY/OUR GULF STREAM RECREATIONAL VEHICLE AND AGREE TO
ABIDE BY ALL OF ITS TERMS AND PROVISIONS INCLUDING, BUT NOT LIMITED TO, THE DISCLAIMER OF ALL OTHER
EXPRESS AND IMPLIED WARRANTIES, INCLUDING ANY IMPLIED WARRANTY OF MERCHANTABILITY OR FITNESS
FOR A PARTICULAR PURPOSE, TO THE EXTENT APPLICABLE LAW ALLOWS, AND 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
.
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
2. If you are traveling or move, any authorized dealer may provide service. Keep your warranty registration form
3. If you cannot locate an authorized Gulf Stream dealer contact:
4. Other warranties - The retail customer is responsible for completing and forwarding warranty forms for all
5. YOUR WARRANTY IS NOT VALID UNTIL IS HAS BEEN SIGNED AND SUBMITTED TO GULF STREAM
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.
is best to return to your dealer for service.
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.
GULF STREAM COACH, INC.
PO Box 1005
Nappanee, IN 46550
1.800.482.6456
items not covered by either the chassis manufacturer’s or Gulf Stream’s warranty.
COACH, INC!
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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 cylinders shall not be stored inside the vehicle. LP-Gas cylinders are equipped with
safety devices that relieve excessive pressure by discharging gas to the atmosphere. FAILURE TO COMPLY
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 electrical switches.
3. Shut off the LP gas supply at the tank valve(s) or gas supply con nection.
4. Open doors and other ventilating openings.
5. Leave the area until the odor cle ars.
6. Have the gas system checked and leakage source corrected before using again.
LP gas regulators must always be installed with the regulator vent facing downward. Regulators that are not in
compartments have been equipped with a protective cover. Make sure that the regulator vent faces down and that the
cover is kept in place to minimize vent blockage that could result in excessive gas pressure causing 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.
COULD RESULT IN DEATH OR SERIOUS INJURY.
A warning label has been located near the LP-Gas container. This label reads as follows.
DO NOT FILL CONTAINER(S) TO MORE THAN 80 PERCENT OF CAPACITY.
1. Overfilling the LP-Gas container can result in uncontrolled gas flow, which can cause fire or explosion.
2. A properly filled container will contain approximately 80 percent of its volume as liquid LP-Gas.
WARNING: IT IS NOT SAFE TO USE COOKING APPLIANCES FOR COMFORT HEATING.
1. Cooking appli ances need fresh air for safe operation.
Before operation:
(a) Open the overhead vent or turn on the exhaust fan.
(b) Open a nearby window.
2. Unlike homes, the amount of oxygen supply is limited due to the size of the recreational vehicle, and proper
ventilation when using cooking appliance(s) will avoid the dangers of asphyxiation. It is especially important
that cooking appliances not be used for comfort heating, as the danger of asphyxiation is greater when the
appliance is used for long periods of time. FAILURE TO COMPLY COULD RESULT IN DEATH OR SERIOUS
INJURY.
WARNING: Portable fuel-burning equipment, including wood, charcoal grills and stoves, shall not be used
inside the recreational vehicle. The use of this of this equipment inside the recreational vehicle can cause fires
and asphyxiation.
WARNING: Do not bring or store LP-Gas cylinders, gasoline or other flammable liquids inside the vehicle
because a fire or explosion can result.
7
PREPARING FOR THE ROAD
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 vehicles 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 busin ess o f driving a large vehicle on the open 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.
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.
WARNING: 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.
8
SEAT BELT MOUNTING
All seat belts are mounted per FMVSS (Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standards) requirements and should never be
relocated. Anyone who relocates a seat belt accepts full responsibility of its 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 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.
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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. NEVER MODIFY OR REMOVE
YOUR VEHICLES GAS TANK OR ATTACHES HOSES.
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 154 pounds, each gallon of gasoline weighs six (6)
pounds, a gallon of diesel fuel weighs 7.1 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. Also be careful of the weight distribution of cargo placed in the vehicle or the exterior
compartments. While the chassis and motor home is designed to sustain a certain amount of side to side or front to
rear weight differences, too much cargo placed at the rear or on either side will have an effect on vehicle handling.
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. 3 ON PAGE 12. 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.
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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
and weight distribution 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. Fresh water may need to be offloaded to obtain the best weight distribution.
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 VEHICLES 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, firstaid 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.
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 tag 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, and the VEHICLE IDENTIFICATION NUMBER (VIN). (FIG.1)
(FIG. 1) FEDERAL ID TAG
(FIG. 2) WEIGHT INFORMATION LABEL
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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.
NCC: The net cargo capacity of the vehicle as equipped by Gulf Stream. This does not include water.
WEIGHT LIMITATIONS, WEIGHT DISTRIBUTION AND VEHICLE HANDLING
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. While
each vehicle is custom made and may have different handling characteristics than the other, most operators will find
that a front to rear weight distribution of 35/65 (Front axle 35% of total loaded vehicle weight with passengers and rear
axle 65% of total loaded vehicle weight) will provide a good vehicle handling experience. These ratios will vary
according to options, chassis design and end user installed equipment. Vehicle handling is affected by weight
placement. Some owner’s may wish to enhance vehicle handling by the addition of shocks, upgraded anti-sway bars,
air suspensions, steering stabilizers, etc. These items are user preference items and are not necessary for the safe
operation of this vehicle as equipped by Gulf Stream. Vehicle handling is also greatly affected by proper tire air
pressure. One or more tires low on air may cause the vehicle to wander and/or sway in a dangerous manner. CHECK
THE WEIGHTS. CHECK THE TIRE PRESSURE IN RELATIONSHIP TO THE WEIGHT. See the Federal Sticker for
the needed information (FIG. 1).
THE METHOD OF WEIGHING YOUR VEHICLE
(FIG 3.)
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 directo ry).
NOTE: BE SURE TO WEIGH THE VEHICLE WITH EVERYTHING IN IT INCLUDING PASSENGERS, CARGO,
FULL LP, AND GASOLINE.
The procedure for weighing is as follows (unless modified by the weighmaster):
1. Drive only the front axle of the unit onto the scale. Have the weight master n ote this weight.
2. Drive forward and place bo th front and rear axles onto the scale. Have the weigh master note this weight.
3. Drive forward until only the rear axle i s o n the scale. Have the weight master note this weight.
NOTE: COMPARE ALL WEIGHTS WITH THOSE LISTED ON THE FEDERAL ID STICKER.
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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……………………………8.1 pounds per gallon Gasoline…………….……………..6.0 pounds per gallon
Propane….………………..……4.23 pounds per gallon Diesel fuel……………………..…..7.1 pounds per gallon
WEIGHT DISTRIBUTION FORMULAS
When loading cargo or installing/towning any equipment (tow dolly, racks, etc) behind the rear axle, you must take
into consideration the cantilever effect that weight has on both axles. For example, a 100 pound item added five (5)
feet behind the rear axle will add more than it’s actual weight to the rear axle and will actually remove weight from the
front axle. Prior to the addition of any heavy cargo or equipment, you will need to know your vehicle’s wheelbase, the
weight of the equipment and how far behind the rear axle it will be placed/installed.
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 rear axle 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 or component to the rear of the vehicle will have an adverse affect on
the driving characteristics.
AIR BAG AND SUSPENSION MODIFICATION WARNING:
GULF STREAM COACH, INC. DOES NOT APPROVE THE USE OF AFTER MARKET SUSPENSION AIR BAGS OR
THE ADDITION OF SUSPENSION LEAF SPRINGS ON ITS VEHICLES. THESE ITEMS, 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 AND CAN BE
DESTRUCTIVE TO THE VEHICLE AND INTERFERE WITH ITS ROAD HANDLING CAPABILITIES.
DO NOT USE SUPPLEMENTAL AIR BAGS OR SPRINGS 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, OR 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. ANY FACTORY APPROVED MODIFICATION MUST BE IN WRITING!
WE CANNOT APPROVE ANY AIR BAG INSTALLATION OR OTHER SUSPENSION MODIFICATION. 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.
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