DRIVING & SAFETY — 2
18
20 08 CONTESSA
IMPORTANT SAFETY TIP:
Turn on the four way flashers if road
speed degrades to the point where the
motorhome is moving significantly under
the posted speed. Use pullouts if traffic
is building. Once in a pullout, if there is
sufficient clearance for safety, idle the
engine for a while to allow the exhaust
and the turbo to cool. While these are
cooling, the transmission will also cool.
Monitor the gauges while waiting.
Descending a Grade:
Prepare to descend a grade at the crest of
the hill. Observe signs indicating grade angle
and duration. The sign may suggest maximum
downhill speed according to Gross Combined
Weight (the combined weight of the motorhome
and a trailer/tow car). At the crest of the hill,
manually shift the transmission into a lower
gear. DO NOT allow the motorhome to gain
momentum before slowing down.
The exhaust brake switch is located on the
driver’s console. Use the exhaust brake to help
maintain a slow, safe downhill speed. When the
brake switch is on, the brake will activate when
the throttle is released.
With exhaust brake applied, road speed may
increase until the transmission automatically shifts
to the next highest gear. Apply the brakes using
moderately heavy pressure on the brake pedal to
reduce speed. Manually downshift to maintain a
safe, slow speed. DO NOT pump the brakes. This
can result in a loss of air pressure. Avoid riding
the brakes as this can cause the brakes to overheat.
Either method can also result in loss of brake
effectiveness or brake failure.
Night Driving:
Be well rested and alert while driving. If
necessary, nd a safe stopping place to
rest until ready to continue.
Avoid using interior lights while driving
that create a glare on the windshield and
decrease visibility.
Dim dash lights to a comfortable level to
reduce glare.
Extreme Heat/Hot Weather Conditions:
Frequently observe all gauges. Variations
from normal conditions should be
promptly evaluated.
Check tire pressure before traveling in hot
conditions. Tire air pressure increases with
heat. DO NOT let air out of a hot tire.
When the tires cool down they will return
to the correct/previous tire pressure.
Pay extra attention to hoses and belts
that are more susceptible to fatigue in
extreme heat.
Winter and Cold Climate Conditions:
The motorhome should be prepared for
cold weather use.
Keep speeds slow and steady. Make
moves gradually and increase visual
distance for a gain in reaction time.
If road or weather conditions are
treacherous, nd a safe stopping place
and wait for conditions to improve.
Avoid using an engine braking device
on wet or slippery surfaces, which can
cause the drive wheels to skid.
Wiper blades should be in good
condition. Fill the washer reservoir with
antifreeze formula window washer uid.
Use mirror heat to keep mirrors clear.
Remove any ice build-up from the entry
step to avoid accidental slipping.
Wet Conditions:
Worn or improperly inated tires can
increase the risk of hydroplaning.
Heavy rain or deep standing water can
cause brakes to apply unevenly or grab.
Refueling:
Truck stops are good refueling points for
motorhomes.
Check overhead clearance heights before
pulling through the fuel island.
Beware of posts installed around fuel
islands.
Avoid running over the fuel hose as it
can get hung up on the motorhome and
cause body damage.
Use of gloves is recommended for
refueling. Store gloves in the outside
compartment.
To prevent grease and fuel deposits from
being tracked into the motorhome when
refueling, change shoes before entering.
Store the extra pair of shoes near the
entry door.
WARNING:
Propane and gasoline are highly
flammable and can ignite, resulting
in explosion, fire or death. Ensure all
flames are extinguished, all propane
appliances are turned off and the
primary propane valve is off prior to
refueling.
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