Tiffin Wayfarer 2020 User Manual
2020
Owner’s Manual
M O T O R H O M E S
TIFFIN MOTORHOMES, INC.
625 Fawn Grove Road | Winfield, AL 35594 205-487-4710
TABLE OF CONTENTS
*VIEWING VIA PDF: Each page number is cross referenced. Simply click on the desired page
number to direct you straight to that page*
1
GENERAL INFORMATION
WELCOME ................................................................................................................ 1
ABOUT THIS MANUAL ......................................................................................... 1
DELIVERY ................................................................................................................ 2
DEALER RESPONSIBILITIES ................................................................................ 2
CUSTOMER RESPONSIBILITIES .......................................................................... 3
TIFFIN MOTORHOMES LIMITED WARRANTY ................................................ 3
MAJOR EQUIPMENT MANUFACTURERS.......................................................... 4
WARRANTY AND SERVICE ................................................................................. 4
OWNER’S INFORMATION PACKAGE ................................................................ 4
CUSTOMER RELATIONS ....................................................................................... 5
SPECIFICATION LABELS ...................................................................................... 5
WEIGHT PROCEDURES ......................................................................................... 6
WEIGHT DISTRIBUTION ....................................................................................... 7
SAFETY MESSAGES ............................................................................................... 7
2
SAFETY INSTRUCTIONS
SAFETY CONSIDERATIONS…........................................................................... 9
GENERAL WARNINGS ....................................................................................... 9
PRE-DEPARTURE CHECKLIST......................................................................... 10
DRIVING SAFETY ............................................................................................... 11
FUELS FOR THE MOTORHOME ....................................................................... 12
LIQUID PROPANE ............................................................................................... 13
LP GAS REGULATOR ......................................................................................... 15
LP DISTRIBUTION SYSTEM .............................................................................. 15
RECOMMENDED PRACTICES .......................................................................... 16
CARBON MONOXIDE WARNING .................................................................... 17
CO/LP DETECTOR ............................................................................................... 17
FIRE SAFETY ....................................................................................................... 19
FIRE EXTINGUISHER ......................................................................................... 20
SMOKE DETECTOR ............................................................................................ 21
ELECTRICAL ....................................................................................................... 21
LOADING ............................................................................................................. 22
MAINTENANCE .................................................................................................. 22
EMERGENCY EXITS ........................................................................................... 22
PARKING PROCEDURES ................................................................................... 23
TOWING HITCH .................................................................................................. 24
3
HEATING & AIR CONDITIONING
FURNACE ............................................................................................................. 26
AIR CONDITIONING SYSTEM ......................................................................... 27
THERMOSTAT CONTROLS ............................................................................... 28
HEAT PUMP CONTROLS ................................................................................... 28
4
LP GAS SYSTEM
LIQUID PROPANE (LP) TANK ........................................................................... 31
LP TANK FILLING PRACTICES......................................................................... 32
LP GAS REGULATOR ......................................................................................... 32
LP QUICK DISCONNECT.……………………………...……………………….33
5
MAJOR APPLIANCES
LP/GAS REFRIGERATOR ................................................................................... 35
MICROWAVE OVEN ........................................................................................... 36
COOK TOP ............................................................................................................ 37
WATER HEATER ................................................................................................. 38
WATER HEATER STORAGE .............................................................................. 40
PRESSURE RELIEF VALVE ............................................................................... 40
6
ENTERTAINMENT
TELEVISION SETS .............................................................................................. 52
DVD PLAYER ....................................................................................................... 52
7
CABINETS & FURNITURE
CABINETS ............................................................................................................ 54
FURNITURE ......................................................................................................... 55
BEDROOM AREA ................................................................................................ 56
8
STRUCTURAL FEATURES
CHASSIS FEATURES .......................................................................................... 58
9
ELECTRICAL FEATURES
GENERAL INFORMATION ................................................................................ 60
CIRCUIT BREAKER BOXES .............................................................................. 62
BATTERY INSPECTION AND CARE ................................................................ 63
120 – VOLT (VAC) AC RECEPTACLES ............................................................. 65
GROUND FAULT CIRCUIT INTERRUPT RECEPTACLES ............................. 65
CONVERTER/INVERTER ................................................................................... 66
ELECTRICAL GENERATOR .............................................................................. 67
AUTOMATIC TRANSFER SWITCH .................................................................. 68
CIRCUIT BREAKERS .......................................................................................... 68
FUSE BREAKERS ................................................................................................ 69
SEVEN PIN TOWING CONNECTOR ................................................................. 70
10
HYDRAULIC LEVELING SYSTEM
WARNINGS AND PRECAUTIONS .................................................................. 72
PARKING THE COACH ...................................................................................... 72
HYDRAULIC LEVELING SYSTEM CONTROLS ............................................. 73
11
SLIDE-OUT FEATURES
GENERAL CONSIDERATIONS .......................................................................... 88
OPERATING PRECAUTIONS ............................................................................. 89
EXTENDING/RETRACTING THE SLIDE OUT ................................................ 89
12
EXTERIOR FEATURES
TOWING HITCH .................................................................................................. 91
EXTERIOR SIDES ................................................................................................ 91
SECURITY LIGHTS ............................................................................................. 92
ELECTRIC STEPS ................................................................................................ 92
MIRRORS.............................................................................................................. 94
13
INTERIOR FEATURES
FLOORING ......................................................................................................... 96
CEILING ..............................................................................................................96
WINDOW TREATMENTS .................................................................................97
14
PLUMBING & BATH FEATURES
MONITOR PANEL ............................................................................................ 99
KITCHEN SINK .................................................................................................. 99
BATH, SINK, SHOWER, & ACCESSORIES ..................................................... 99
WATER PUMP .................................................................................................... 100
CITY WATER CONNECTIONS ........................................................................ 101
FILLING FRESHWATER TANK ...................................................................... 102
SANITIZING ....................................................................................................... 102
WATER FILTER ................................................................................................. 104
WATER HEATER BYPASS SYSTEM .............................................................. 104
FRESH WATER LINES ...................................................................................... 104
GENERAL INFORMATION .............................................................................. 105
TOILET ................................................................................................................ 105
BLACK WATER HOLDING TANK……………………………………...105
GRAY WATER HOLDING TANK ..................................................................... 106
P-TRAPS ............................................................................................................. 106
WASTEWATER DISPOSAL .............................................................................. 106
SEWER CONNECTION AND CAMPING ......................................................... 107
NO FUSS FLUSH ............................................................................................... 107
EXTERIOR SHOWER......................................................................................... 108
15
WINDOWS, AWNINGS, VENTS, AND DOORS
WINDOWS ......................................................................................................... 110
AWNING ............................................................................................................ 110
VENTS ................................................................................................................ 118
DOORS ............................................................................................................... 118
16
DRIVING YOUR MOTORHOME
SINGLE VISION CAMERA MONITOR SYSTEM ........................................... 120
AM/FM/CD STEREO SYSTEM ........................................................................ 120
DASHBOARD HEATING/COOLING CONTROLS ......................................... 120
17
ROUTINE MAINTENANCE
WASHING ........................................................................................................... 122
SEALS ................................................................................................................. 123
PROPER SEALANTS FOR APPLICATION...................................................... 123
WHEEL CARE .................................................................................................... 124
ROOF CARE & MAINTENANCE ...................................................................... 124
MOISTURE MAINTENANCE ........................................................................... 125
TIRE & SAFETY INFORMATION .................................................................... 128
TIRE PRESSURE ................................................................................................ 137
INTERIOR CARE ............................................................................................... 141
FABRICS ............................................................................................................. 141
WALLS & CEILING ........................................................................................... 142
DASHBOARD ..................................................................................................... 142
WOODWORK & FLOORS ................................................................................. 142
COUNTERTOPS ................................................................................................. 142
ACCESSORIES ................................................................................................... 143
DETECTORS ...................................................................................................... 143
CONDENSATION .............................................................................................. 144
ROUTINE MAINTENANCE SCHEDULES ...................................................... 144
WINTERIZING ................................................................................................... 145
DE-WINTERIZING ............................................................................................ 146
18
MAINTENANCE & DATA CHART
RV OWNER’S DATA SHEET ............................................................................ 149
RV OWNER’S MAINTENANCE RECORD ...................................................... 150
GENERAL INFORMATION
CHAPTER
1
Copyright © by Tiffin Motorhomes, Inc. - all rights reserved
Tiffin Motorhomes, Inc. ©
625 Fawn Grove Rd. Winfield, Al 35594
Phone: 205-487-4710
FAX: 205-487-0444
MERCEDES 24 HOUR ROAD SIDE SERVICE
800-367-6372
Email: winfieldparts@tiffinmotorhomes.com
winfieldservice@tiffinmotorhomes.com
1
WELCOME TO A LIFE OF “ROUGHING IT SMOOTHLY”
Tiffin Motorhomes is excited that you
have entered the world of motorhome
travel and we believe that you and
your family will enjoy this way of life
for years to come. Your Tiffin built
motorhome provides all the luxuries
and comforts of home while allowing
you to travel freely as you choose. But
before heading out on the open roads,
please make yourself familiar with this
owner’s manual to learn more about
the operations of your motorhome.
Also, please work with your dealer to
learn as much as possible about the
functionality and features of your
coach. And remember - “Wherever
you go, we go.”
ABOUT THIS MANUAL
This operator/owner’s manual was prepared with you in mind. We want to provide you with the
information you need to properly care for and use your vehicle and equipment. Please carefully read
through this manual to help you understand how everything in your motorhome works.
NOTE: This operator’s manual describes many features of your Wayfarer and includes instructions for its
safe use. The manual, however, including its photography and illustrations, is of a general nature. Some
equipment and features described in this manual may be optional or unavailable on your model.
The instructions included are meant to serve as a guide and in no way extend the responsibilities of Tiffin
Motorhomes beyond the standard written warranty. The descriptions, illustrations, and specifications in
this manual were correct at the time of printing and Tiffin Motorhomes reserves the right to change
specifications or design without notice, and without incurring obligation to install the same on products
previously manufactured. Many of the instruction sheets and manuals for the various appliances inside
your motorhome have been incorporated into this manual for your convenience. There’s also a flash drive
in the information bag inside of your coach with instruction manuals to your appliances on it as well.
2
DELIVERY
Throughout the entire manufacturing process, your Tiffin motorhome has been regularly inspected by our
qualified personnel to assure you of the finest product of the highest quality, without exception. However,
the final inspection at our factory is not to be the last one. The pre-delivery inspection and system check
that your dealer performs are the final inspections done to your particular motorhome prior to you actually
receiving your new Wayfarer motorhome. Your dealer is also available to assist you in understanding the
warranties and completing the necessary forms to activate the warranties for the various appliances and
accessories installed in your motorhome.
DEALER RESPONSIBILITIES
1. A pre-delivery inspection and systems check is performed to assure a thorough inspection of the
motorhome and to assure the proper operation of all factory-installed components.
2. A customer walk-through is performed to familiarize the new customer with the motorhome, its
systems and components, and their proper and safe operation.
3. Delivery of the Owner’s Information Package which contains warranty cards and registrations for
the vehicle and all factory-installed components from other vendors and suppliers to Tiffin
Motorhomes. The detailed operation instructions and maintenance instructions on these
components are also included in this package.
4. Assisting the customer in completing the registration forms to avoid loss of warranty coverage.
The dealer should review the limited-warranty provisions with the customer to stress the
importance of completing the warranty cards and registration forms for the components in the
motorhome to enable the manufacturers to receive them within the prescribed time limits.
5. Providing the customer with information regarding warranty and non-warranty work on the
vehicle and its separately warranted components.
3
GENERAL INFORMATION
CUSTOMER RESPONSIBILITIES
The customer is responsible for regular and proper maintenance of the motorhome. Properly maintaining
your motorhome will prevent conditions arising from neglect that are not covered by your Tiffin
Motorhomes limited warranty. The maintenance guidelines in this manual and any other, applicable
manual(s) should be followed. It is your responsibility and obligation to return the vehicle to an
authorized dealer for repairs and service.
To assist you in avoiding problems with your motorhome, it is recommended that you do the following:
1. Read the warranty. Go over it thoroughly with your dealer to make sure you understand all the
terms and conditions of the warranty.
2. Please ask questions about anything you don’t fully understand about your Wayfarer. Tiffin
Motorhomes is here to serve you and assure that you have all the information necessary for your
safe and enjoyable use of your new motor home.
3. When you are taking delivery, set an appointment for adjustments. This appointment should be
within two weeks after you accept delivery.
4. You are responsible for and expected to use your Wayfarer in a responsible, safe manner. Please
take the time to familiarize yourself with the proper operation of the motor home and all its
features before you attempt to use your motor home.
5. Once a year the roof seals need to be inspected and replaced if need to prevent leaks. This can be
done at a Tiffin Motorhomes Service Center.
TIFFIN MOTORHOMES LIMITED WARRANTY
The Tiffin Motorhomes limited warranty was provided to you by your authorized Tiffin Motorhomes
dealer during the pre-delivery inspection. When you inquire about your Tiffin Motorhomes warranty,
please refer to this document. Should you need or desire an additional copy or other information, please
contact:
Tiffin Motorhomes, Inc.
625 Fawn Grove Rd.
Winfield, Alabama 35594
Tiffin Motorhomes will be pleased to send you an additional copy or any other information requested, as
may be warranted.
4
MAJOR EQUIPMENT MANUFACTURERS
The following list is a compilation of the vendors and suppliers of the major subsystems and components
of your Wayfarer. This list is provided for your convenience and is not meant as a complete substitution
of the literature and accompanying “how to contact us” information supplied by those vendors and
suppliers in your Owner’s Information Package. Where appropriate, website information is provided as
well.
•
Atwood Mobile Products
(800) 646-8557
atwoodmobile.com
•
LP Gas Water Heater
(815) 877-5700
atwoodmobile.com
•
HWH Corporation
(800) 321-3494
hwhcorp.com
•
Kwikee
(541) 942-3888
kwikee.com
•
Norcold, Inc.
(800) 543-1219
norcold.com
•
Onan Corporation
(612) 574-5944
onanindiana.com
•
RV Products (Coleman A/C)
(316) 832-3400
airxcel.com
•
Precision Circuits Inc.
(630)-240-9832
precisioncircuitsinc.com
•
Saf-T-Alert (CO/LP Alarm)
(800) 383-0269
safetalert.com
•
Triple H
(800) 237-4277
triplehelectronics.com
•
The Dometic Corporation
(219) 294-2017
dometic.com
•
Lippert
(574)-535-1125
lippert.com
For those looking for more information (e.g., locations of authorized subsidiaries), the following web site,
www.rvamerica.com/data/s_alist.htm, should be helpful. This site provides complete, alphabetic listings
of all suppliers and vendors for all contemporary recreational vehicles and motor homes.
WARRANTY SERVICE
Mercedes-Benz covers roadside for the full term of the bumper-to-bumper chassis warranty 3 years or
36,000 miles. Tiffin Motorhomes warrants its unitized construction for
10 years and its laminations for five years. Any service work performed after the expiration of the Tiffin
Motorhomes warranties WILL NOT be covered by those warranties. Exceptions may be made, on an
individual basis, to this deadline on account of the unavailability of parts and/or service appointment time
where work is to be performed. However, don’t rely on the possibility of an exception; please schedule
any desired in-warranty work before your warranty expires.
OWNER’S INFORMATION PACKAGE
The Owner’s Information Package includes valuable documents about your Wayfarer and its components
and systems. By consulting the booklets and instruction manuals included in the Owner’s Information
Package, you will learn how to operate, maintain, and troubleshoot these items safely and effectively. The
Tiffin Motorhomes Wayfarer Owner’s Manual does not cover every possible detail of equipment—
standard and/or optional—installed on or in your vehicle. As with all valuable documentation, please
keep them in a safe, secure place for your later use and consultation. When you complete and mail to the
respective manufacturer(s) any warranty/guaranty registration card(s) make a photocopy of both sides of
5
each card prior to mailing and keep the photocopy in your permanent records for your Wayfarer
motorhome.
CUSTOMER RELATIONS
If you wish to schedule maintenance or service or wish to order parts, you should notify your local
authorized Tiffin Motorhomes dealership to set up an appointment. If you are unsure of the location of
your nearest authorized Tiffin Motorhomes dealership, please access the Tiffin Motorhomes website at
www.tiffinmotorhomes.com and then click on the “Locate Dealer” button, then enter in the appropriate
search criteria such as state and retail sales, then click on the red ball located on the map to find dealer
information in that area.
SPECIFICATION LABELS
There are two main numbers used to identify your Wayfarer. The Vehicle Identification Number (VIN) is
the legal identification of the completed vehicle. The VIN is the number used by the state for vehicle
identification and registration.
Another label
affixed to
your Wayfarer
is the
Recreational
Vehicle
Industrial
Association
(RVIA) label
for Tiffin
Motorhomes, a manufacturer member of
RVIA, has the obligation to disclose the
following information, at minimum, to the
purchaser of the motor home:
6
• An indication of the contents of the motorhome weight label affixed to the motorhome.
• A concise explanation of the following items: Vehicle Weight (VW) distribution and Proper
weighing techniques to be used to weigh the vehicle.
• Specific definitions for the following terminology:
Gross Vehicle-Weight Rating (GVWR) – This is the maximum permissible weight of the motor
home when it is fully loaded.
Unloaded Vehicle Weight (UVW) – This is the weight of the motor home, as built at the factory, with full
fuel, engine oil, and coolants. The UVW does not include cargo, fresh water, LP gas, or any dealer
installed accessories.
Cargo-Carrying Capacity (CCC) – This is the maximum weight of all occupants including the driver,
personal belongings, food, fresh water, waste water, LP gas, tools, tongue weight of towed vehicle [if
any], dealer-installed accessories, and the like. The CCC is equal to or less than the GVWR minus
the UVW.
Gross Combination-Weight Rating (GCWR) – This is the value specified by the chassis manufacturer as
the maximum allowable loaded weight of the motor home with a towed trailer and/or vehicle [if any].
Sleeping-Capacity Weight Rating (SCWR) – This is the maximum weight capacity of the combined
number of persons (i.e., number of people multiplied by 154 pounds per person) permitted to sleep
within the vehicle.
Gross Axle-Weight Rating (GAWR) – This is the maximum allowable weight for an axle; the
GAWR considers the weakest link in the tire, wheel, brakes, hubs, axle, springs, and attaching parts.
To illustrate, if the axle is rated at 15,000 pounds and the tires are rated at 3,200 pounds each as a
dual installation; then the maximum GAWR would be 12,800 pounds for a four-tire vehicle.
WEIGHT PROCEDURES
To weigh the motorhome properly, the motorhome should be level when the weighing process is
performed. Your Wayfarer motorhome has been designed and built in compliance with the recommended
limits of the major-component/system suppliers to provide a realistic CCC. It is up to the final user to
provide even distribution of the loads brought into the motor home to prevent uneven loading. Once the
vehicle is loaded, it can be taken to any certified drive-on scales or individual-wheel scales to determine
that the final weight is within specified limits for the motorhome. The procedure that can be used is as
follows:
First, drive the motorhome onto the scales so that all wheels are on the scales; this provides the gross
vehicle weight (GVW) of the vehicle and can be recorded as such. The GVW should not exceed the
GVWR specified for the vehicle.
7
GENERAL INFORMATION
Second, drive the motorhome so that the front wheels are off the scales and only the rear wheels remain
on the scales; this provides the total weight of the vehicle, save for the front axle. This weight should not
exceed the total rating of the axles remaining on the scales. The front axle weight is determined by
subtracting the weight from the GVW that was obtained in the first step which was performed earlier.
The result should not exceed the listed front-axle weight rating.
WEIGHT DISTRIBUTION
To assure the maximum stability of the motorhome under static (i.e., parked) and dynamic (i.e., moving)
conditions, the distribution of the items to be carried and stored within the motorhome and in the storage
bays underneath the motorhome should be performed in such a manner to strive for reasonably even sideto-side and front-to-rear dispersion of the weight of the stored items. This process will assure that the
motorhome is not “lop-sided” in weight distribution (i.e., all the stored weight on one side and/or mainly
towards the front or the rear)—keeping a center of mass of the motorhome essentially centered on a frontto-rear and side-to-side basis will also provide better control of the motorhome when it is in motion.
SAFETY MESSAGES
Please note that several labels listed in this manual represent items that need your attention. The
Danger, Warning, Caution, and Notice labels alert you to precautions that may help you avoid damage
to your motorhome, its equipment or your personal safety. Please read and follow them carefully.
8
SAFETY INSTRUCTIONS
CHAPTER
2
9
SAFETY CONSIDERATIONS
Prior to using your motorhome, especially for the first time or after a long period of non-use, please read
thoroughly all the instructions in the Owner’s Manual and the chassis-manufacturer’s manual before
attempting to operate your motorhome. There are several safety considerations which you should realize
and follow while your Wayfarer is in motion. These safety considerations, as well as others meant to
preclude any damage to the motorhome, are listed in this chapter. Besides the driver, it would be helpful
for the passengers to be familiar with these safety considerations and precautions, too.
GENERAL WARNINGS
In general, there are several “common-sense” safety precautions that should be taken every time the
motorhome is to be used on the road. These precautions include:
• Only seats with seat belts should be used while the motorhome is in motion; those seat belts
should be worn by all people (driver, passengers) in the motorhome at that time.
• While the motorhome is moving, lock all seats in the forward-facing position to provide
maximum safety for the users.
• While the motorhome is moving, no one inside should ever stand or kneel on seats (e.g., young
children).
• In the majority of states, it is the law that seat belts must be used (fastened snugly about the chest
and hip areas), anytime the motorhome is in motion, to provide desired protection in the event of
a crash.
• Any fire extinguisher(s) should be inspected on a monthly basis to assure that each extinguisher
is properly charged and ready for operation.
• Any smoke and/or carbon-monoxide (CO)/liquid propane (LP) alarm(s) should be regularly
inspected and tested. If being used for the first time, the smoke and/or CO/LP alarm should be
properly activated and fresh batteries installed before the motorhome is placed into service.
Never sleep in a motorhome not having functional smoke and/or CO/LP alarm(s).
• While the motorhome is moving, the sleeping facilities are not to be used.
• In the event of an emergency, be sure to be familiar with all escape exits (doors, escape window)
Do not use the emergency window as a routine exit; this is strictly to be used for emergency
purposes only.
• Movement inside the motorhome should be minimized while the motorhome is in motion.
• Never leave the driver’s seat unattended while the motorhome is in motion.
10
YOUR PRE-DEPATURE CHECKLIST
For your continued safety and convenience, the following
is a representative “check list” designed to assure your
safety while driving:
Clean all windows, mirrors, and light
lenses (front, back, side) to assure that you
can “see” and “be seen.” Reposition any
mirrors or other fixtures to provide an
unobstructed view (front, sides, and back) from the driver’s seat.
Remove or secure all loose fixtures (e.g., awnings, flags, antennas, portable lights) to
keep them from falling from the motorhome when the vehicle is in motion.
Make a “walk-around” visual inspection of the motorhome to note any irregularities
(e.g., loose trim) or problems (e.g., low tires); correct noted problems accordingly
Check all exterior storage-compartment and generator-compartment doors to make sure
they are properly latched. If need be, check inside all exterior compartments to make
sure that all cargo and equipment are properly secured so they won’t work loose and
become hazards during sudden starts and stops.
Check tires for proper inflation (i.e., cold inflation pressure: 100 psi). If the motorhome
has not been used, make sure that the “cold inflation” pressure is maintained. If the
motorhome has recently been used, make sure that the “hot inflation” pressure (see the
tire-manufacturer’s literature to determine appropriate “hot inflation” pressure) is
maintained. All tire pressures should be within 1-2 pounds (psig) of each other.
Examine wheel lug nuts to assure their proper tightness. If any lug nuts were found to be
loose, first check the fit of the wheel to the hub to make sure the wheel is mounted
properly. If the wheel is improperly mounted it could cause the wheel to wobble when
the motorhome is in motion, then tighten the lug nuts.
Check all fluid levels (e.g., engine oil, transmission fluid, coolant, power-steering fluid,
brake fluid, battery fluid [if applicable], windshield-washer solvent) to assure correct
levels are maintained. Fill any low reservoirs, as needed.
DO NOT SUBSTITUTE any other fluids for specified oils, transmission fluid, brake
fluid, or other hydraulic fluids—in most instances, substitutions are not acceptable and
may void warranties.
Prior to starting the motorhome engine, make sure all lines (e.g., water, sewer) and
electrical power cords are disconnected and properly stowed.
After entering the motorhome, make sure that the electrically-actuated, retractable step
has properly
Check visually that all stabilizer legs are retracted before operation of the motorhome.
.
11
DRIVING SAFETY
Various adjustments need to be
made to assure the driver’s comfort
and the safety of the motorhome
before starting and moving the
motorhome; these include:
• Do not attempt to adjust the driver’s
seat while the vehicle is moving.
• Do not adjust the tilt steering while
the vehicle is moving.
• The driver should be familiar with
all gauges, instruments, switches,
and indicators on the instrument
panel prior to driving.
• Do not operate the cruise-control
function during any extreme
weather situations (e.g., snow, ice,
sleet, heavy rain) or when road
conditions
are hazardous (icy, snowy, winding
roads, city traffic) or when a constant speed of the
motorhome is not possible or if traffic conditions don’t warrant such.
• Avoid driving the motorhome through any standing water. If deep enough, such water can wet the
brake pads and cause fading of the brakes (i.e., loss of braking power) and lead to excessive
sliding or pulling to one side or another.
• Know the limits of operation of the motorhome. Don’t try to achieve excessive speeds, climb
overly steep hills, traverse overly long grades, attempt to use the motorhome as an “off the road”
(OTR) motorhome, rapidly switch lanes, or rapidly accelerate or decelerate the motorhome.
When in doubt about the handling characteristics of the motorhome, consult your chassis manual
for information.
• NEVER drive the vehicle with a slide out room extended.
Figure 2-1: Driver’s side dashboard and instrument console
12
FUELS FOR THE MOTORHOME
Your motorhome is designed to use diesel only for the engine used in the routine operation of the
motorhome—these require prudent and safe handling to assure safety of the motorhome and its occupants;
namely:
• Anytime the motor fuel or the LP tank is to be
filled, the motorhome engine is to be turned OFF
and all pilot lights and appliances should be
turned OFF.
• A NO SMOKING policy should always be
observed when refilling the fuel or propane gas
tank.
• NEVER use an open flame to test for LP gas
leaks or to examine the fluid levels in the fuel tanks.
• After filling any LP system, immediately replace and secure all protective covers and caps.
• After closing the LP valve, close and securely latch the LP door to prevent unintentional access or
damage.
• NEVER connect natural gas to the LP gas system—LP gas and natural gas are not
interchangeable.
• When lighting range burners, do not turn burner controls to “On” and allow the gas to escape
before lighting.
• NEVER use any other “burning” equipment (e.g., charcoal grills, wood stoves, butane lights, pro
pane lights) inside the motorhome. Doing so may cause fires and/or asphyxiation.
13
LIQUID PROPANE (LP) GAS SYSTEM
Check the propane gas system for leaks yearly or as necessary. If you smell gas within the motorhome, quickly
perform the following:
IF YOU SMELL PROPANE
• Extinguish any open flames, pilot lights and all smoking materials.
• Do not touch electrical switches.
• Shut off the gas supply at the tank valve or gas supply connection.
• Open doors, windows and other ventilating openings.
• Leave the area until the odor clears.
• Have the propane system checked and leak source corrected immediately, failure to comply could result in
serious injury or death.
14
Any overfilling of the LP gas container(s) can result
in uncontrolled gas flow—a prime condition for a fire
or explosion.
The LP container should only be filled to 80 percent
of its capacity; the remainder of the cylinder space is
an air space to contain expansion of that liquid when
subjected to varying ambient-temperature conditions.
Filling in excess of 80 percent of the liquid volume of
the container reduces that air space and, thus,
creates a condition for possible over-pressurization
of the container.
All LP appliances in your motorhome have been approved for use in motorhomes by a nationallyrecognized testing laboratory (i.e., UL and CSA certified). When properly used, LP gas is a cleanburning fuel which can be dependably used. In actuality, the LP container contains liquid propane
under high pressure.
The liquid, when it passes through the tank valve to a lower pressure, vaporizes into a gas, and
then passes through a regulator to maintain a constant pressure. This gas, then, is the actual fuel
distributed through the LP gas manifold system to the LP based appliances used in your
motorhome.
LP appliance lighting problems are typically caused by an improperly-adjusted gas regulator.
NEVER attempt to adjust or reset the gas regulator yourself. An authorized service technician is
needed to make these adjustments. As a good preventive-maintenance procedure, the regulator
should be checked annually by a service technician and also before every extended trip. Even
though the LP gas system is leak-checked and verified at the factory at the time of manufacture,
normal usage (travel vibrations, etc.) could loosen the fittings. Consequently, it is wise to check
the gas fittings periodically for leak tightness.
You can wipe some leak-detector solution (e.g., a “liquid-soap” like solution) on all the fittings,
connections, and junctures when the system is under pressure. Should there be any leaks, small bubbles
will appear at any leak sites.
Generally, loose fittings can be tightened to stop the leaks. If this process doesn’t work, then you
must shut off the main gas valve at the LP cylinder(s) and immediately consult an authorized
service technician to determine what repairs are necessary. Leaks may also be detected by noting
a sulfurous odor (i.e., rotten eggs). DO NOT search for a leak by using a match or open flame.
Figure 2-3: LP Tank
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LP GAS REGULATOR
The LP gas regulator (Figure 2-4) is the most
critical element of the LP-gas distribution system.
The regulator converts the high-pressure LP gas
from the tank into a reduced-pressure LP-gas
supply suitable for use in the various appliances
in the motorhome.
You should regularly inspect the regulator
system. If any damage or corrosion is noted,
contact an authorized service technician to
inspect and repair or replace the regulator.
Do not attempt to adjust the regulator yourself; the regulator has been pre-set at the factory.
Only a qualified LP service technician using specialized equipment should adjust the regulator.
LP DISTRIBUTION SYSTEM
The primary LP distribution system in the motorhome is a steel manifold located underneath the
motorhome. The secondary distribution lines running from this main distribution system are usually
reinforced rubber supply lines.
Figure 2-4 LP Gas Regulator
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If any of the gas lines break, do not attempt to splice them—always run new lines to maintain the
safety of the motor home. It is strongly recommended that only qualified service technicians
perform this work.
Remember, the main valve at the LP gas tank must be closed whenever any gas appliance is to be
installed, removed, or serviced—this process prevents LP gas leakage which could result in a
possible harmful explosion. If the odor of LP gas is ever detected, immediately discontinue use of
any gas appliances and seek the services of a qualified service technician.
RECOMMENDED PRACTICES
The following practices are recommended to assure continued safety and reliability of the LP gas system.
These are, of course, representative; not necessarily exhaustive. In all cases, use common sense in the use
of the LP system.
• Visually inspect the LP fill valve before any refueling operation to look for foreign materials or
debris; remove, as necessary, to assure a leak-tight connection.
• Prior to any refueling operation of the LP gas system, shut off all the pilot lights.
• NEVER, under any circumstances, check for LP gas leaks with any type of open flame; doing so
would probably cause an explosion and subsequent fire.
• Periodically inspect visually the entire LP gas distribution system; do so at least annually and before
any major trips.
Should problems be noted, seek the services of a qualified service technician to make necessary repairs
and perform any maintenance.
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CARBON MONOXIDE WARNING
A properly maintained engine exhaust and ventilation system is the best way to protect against carbon
monoxide’s entry into the vehicle. We recommend that the exhaust system and body be inspected by a qualified
motorhome service center:
• Each time the vehicle is serviced for an oil change.
• Whenever a change in the sound of the exhaust system is noticed.
• Whenever the exhaust system, underbody, or rear of the vehicle is damaged.
To allow proper operation of the vehicle’s ventilation system, keep front ventilation inlet grill clear of
obstructions at all times. Do not occupy a parked vehicle with engine running for an extended time and do
not run engine in confined areas, such as a garage.
Your motorhome is equipped with a Carbon Monoxide
alarm, which has a sensor that is designed to detect carbon
monoxide gas fumes resulting from incomplete combustion
of fuel. It will detect carbon monoxide gas from any
combustion source such as from the furnace, oven/ range,
water heater, refrigerator, chassis engine and generator
engine.
CO/LP GAS DETECTOR
Since LP gas is denser than air, the LP gas will naturally settle to the lowest point in an enclosed space. In the
motorhome, this would be the floor.
Because of this, the CO/LP gas detector (Figure 2-5) is necessarily mounted close to the floor. To activate
the CO/LP-gas sensor on this detector for the first time, remove the sensor activation strip, if such was not
performed during the pre-delivery inspection.
Figure 2-5: Carbon Monoxide alarm
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If the alarm persists in re-arming and giving further alarms, ventilate the motorhome by opening
doors and windows and then check for possible LP gas leaks. If the leak cannot be readily found,
SAFELY. then close the main valve to the LP tank and turn “off” all gas appliances and then take
the motorhome to a qualified service technician after the ventilation process is concluded and the
doors and windows again shut.
This single compact system provides a powerful combined alarm that detects both Carbon
Monoxide (CO) and explosive gases Propane (LPG) and Methane (Natural Gas). This detector uses
the latest microprocessor technology combined with two electronic self-cleaning sensors that
operate independently of each other. The combined unit can detect both CO and explosive gases
simultaneously.
Carbon monoxide (CO) is a colorless, odorless, tasteless gas which, when breathed, bonds to the
hemoglobin in the red blood cells and, thus, drastically reduces or blocks the transfer of oxygen
from the lungs to the rest of the body.
In sufficient concentrations, CO kills by asphyxiation. In lesser amounts, CO makes the victim
groggy, lethargic, and unable to think clearly or quickly.
CO is one of the products of combustion for many materials including petroleum-based products
(e.g., gasoline, diesel fuel, propane, butane; among others). Since many of the appliances and the
engines associated with the motorhome produce CO in their normal operations, it is necessary to
assure that CO levels do not rise to dangerous levels within the motor home. In sufficiently high
concentrations, CO can kill in minutes.
The most susceptible people to CO poisoning are unborn babies, small children, pregnant women,
senior citizens, and people with cardiovascular or respiratory problems
Consequently, it is prudent to check the CO monitor regularly for normal operation and to remain aware
of the symptoms of CO poisoning which include dizziness, nausea, vomiting,
Muscular twitching, throbbing in the temples, incoherent thinking and speech, weakness, sleepiness,
and intense headaches.
Should any of these symptoms be experienced in the motorhome, you should IMMEDIATELY
evacuate the motorhome and seek medical help. Shut down the motorhome and do not attempt to
operate it again until the source(s) of the CO are located and fixed.
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FIRE SAFETY
As with any enclosed system containing the three required conditions for fire (i.e., combustible
materials, oxygen, ignition sources), there will exist the possibility of fire. Tiffin Motorhomes has
taken every precaution and design practice to minimize or negate this possibility, but the final
determination rests with the owner and user of the motorhome. Accordingly, it is in the best interests
of the owners, users, and their guests to be aware of basic fire-safety practices and procedures and
those particular features that Tiffin Motorhomes has provided for fire safety.
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FIRE EXTINGUISHER
The Wayfarer is equipped with a fire extinguisher located in the
entrance door stairwell (Figure 2-6) The extinguisher is rated for
both Class B and C (i.e., grease, gasoline, diesel fuel, flammable
liquids and electrical). Read and understand the accompanying
owner’s manual on that extinguisher (found in your Owner’s
Information Package) and remember the location of the
extinguisher. These types of fire extinguishers are pressurized,
mechanical devices and require that appropriate care be used in
their safe storage and use. The owner’s manual will provide
necessary guidance for the proper storage, handling, and use of the
extinguishers. Prudent preventive maintenance suggests monthly
inspection of any fire extinguisher to assure that it is sufficiently
pressurized (i.e., the needle on the gauge is in the “normal” zone)
and that the mechanical components are not blocked in any way. Do not test a fire extinguisher by
partially discharging the unit—this will cause a loss of pressure and may lodge some fire retardant
materials in the valve mechanism and cause the extinguisher to continue to vent slowly down to
zero pressure. If an extinguisher is ever partially used; continue its use until the unit is completely
discharged, then have the fire extinguisher fully recharged at an appropriate service center (one
can call any fire department for information on having an extinguisher recharged in that particular
locality). DO NOT wait a long time to recharge an empty fire extinguisher; you’ll never know
when it may be needed. Should a fire occur inside or around the motorhome, evacuate the
motorhome quickly and calmly—do not panic. In the event of heavy smoke or extensive flames,
keep low (crawl if you must) and make your way to the nearest exit (door, emergency window)
and leave. If the fire involves a fuel source (e.g., diesel fuel, LP gas); consider the probability of
an explosion and move sufficiently far away to minimize personal harm. If such is available,
immediately place a call to the local fire department (or ask someone nearby to do so) to report the
fire. Consider the cause and the consequences of the fire and the risks associated with possibly
fighting the fire yourself before trying to extinguish it. DO NOT expose yourself or others to
unnecessary danger.
Figure 2-6: Fire Extinguisher
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