DRIVING & SAFETY - 2
CAY M A N 2 0 0 7
19
Avoid using full throttle when ascending
a long hill. This wastes fuel and
increases engine operating temperature
from incomplete combustion. Manually
shift to a lower gear and use less throttle.
Fuel will burn more ef ciently.
Avoid extended idling to warm-up the
engine. Start the engine and wait for
normal oil pressure to register. Engage the
high idle feature until the engine coolant
temperature gauge raises. The engine is
now ready for travel. Whenever coolant
temperature is below 160° F (idling
engine) incomplete combustion occurs,
causing carbon build-up and raw fuel to
wash lubricating oil from the cylinder
walls and dilute the crankcase oil.
Excessive idling (more than 10 or
15 minutes) can clog fuel injectors,
eventually causing piston rings and
valves to stick.
Operate the transmission with the
MODE function set to Economy
whenever possible; this allows for earlier
shifts and enhanced fuel economy.
Follow the maintenance schedule for
the engine.
TRIP PREPARATION
The following
suggestions are
general guidelines
to follow when
preparing for a trip:
Items to Carry:
An emergency road kit
containing a ashlight, road
ares, warning signs and a re
extinguisher.
Local, State and National
Maps, as well as a “Motor
Carrier” road atlas (for
refueling station and truck
repair facility locations).
Hand tools, a 12 Volt DC test
light, a 120 Volt AC polarity
tester, battery hydrometer,
an assortment of blade fuses
and alternator belt.
Potable and non-potable
water hoses, a water
pressure regulator and
various termination
connectors for sewage.
Inspection:
Ensure all exterior items are stowed or
secured (i.e. TV antenna, ceiling vents
and windows).
Check belts, hoses, battery and engine
uid levels. Inspect the engine,
transmission and generator per the OEM
manuals.
Evenly distribute and secure cargo. Store
heavy items near the rear axle and lighter
items toward the front to prevent uneven
stress and handling problems.
Check all tires outside the motorhome
for accurate pressure and physical
condition. Look around, above and under
the motorhome for obstruction or leaks.
Test all exterior lighting: headlamps,
taillights, brake and clearance lights.
Inside the motorhome store and secure
heavier objects in the lower cabinets to
maintain a low center of gravity for sway
reduction. Secure loose items to prevent
weight shifts. Store lighter items in the
overhead cabinets. Close and secure all
cabinet doors and drawers, shower and
pocket doors. Turn off interior lighting.
Adjust exterior mirrors and check dash
gauges for proper operation.
INFORMATION:
For chassis maintenance details refer to
the chassis section.
CAUTION:
Open the bay doors slowly after a trip
as cargo may shift during travel.
WARNING:
To avoid injury, never place hands or
fingers near the edges of the bay door
when opening or closing. Always use the
latch handle. Apply pressure with the
other hand just above the latch handle.
TIPS:
Multi-purpose items, versatile clothing
and periodic removal of unused cargo
will streamline cargo storage.
020062
GARDNER BENDER, INC
OPEN
GROUND
OPEN
NUETRAL
OPEN HOT
HOT/GRD
REVERSE
HOT/NEU
REVERSE
CORRECT
Polarity Tester
Test Light
090333f
Tool Box & Emergency Road
Supplies
020064b