5-3
CLASS C & B
+
MOTORHOME
1. Controls:
The motorhome driver controls are automotive
type and the steering and braking controls are
power assisted to help make driving as com-
fortable as possible. However it must be
remembered that the motorhome is much
higher, wider and heavier than a family auto-
mobile.
2. Handling:
The motorhome power-to-weight ratio is lower
than that of the average automobile. Therefore
it is essential to compensate for less accelera-
tion when moving into traffic or when passing
another vehicle. Allow extra room to run a
corner and to change lanes. When going
underneath a bridge or similar overhang you
must be aware of your maximum height.
(Measurement must include the air conditioner
plus 6 inches. Height may vary depending on
chassis, make, suspension and air condi-
tioner).
3. Mountain Driving:
When driving in hilly or mountainous terrain you
should employ different driving techniques than
those used when driving under normal, flat
conditions.
a. Climbing a Hill:
The transmission is designed to down-shift
automatically when required during a
longer uphill climb. If you find that the
transmission shifts up and down rather
frequently, it is a good idea to select a
lower gear for the duration of the climb to
prevent this repeated shifting. This will
prevent unnecessary wear and tear on
your transmission.
CAUTION
Observe the engine tem-
perature carefully especially
during long climbs. If you
notice over-heating, pull off
the road and allow the
engine to cool off thor-
oughly before you continue.
Fill the radiator with coolant
if necessary.
A STANDARD RULE OF THUMB:
Use the same lower gear position
when descending a hill as you used
while climbing the hill.
5.6 DRIVING SAFETY TIP
1. When backing the motorhome, have a person
stand to the rear on the driver's side to guide
you.
2. Before departing on the trip, check your routes.
Remember, some tunnels prohibit motorhomes
with LP gas systems.
3. While travelling, make sure all occupants use
their seatbelts.
4. While travelling, make sure all doors are
closed and that cabinets, drawers, and loose
objects are secure.
5. Instruct your family on what to do in case of
fire, and hold fire drills periodically.
6. Maintain proper charge in the fire extinguisher.
7. Gas and smoke detectors should not be
obstructed and should be in working order at all
times.
8. Keep a well stocked first aid kit handy.
9. Keep a tool box handy.
10. Check tires often while travelling. Pay special
attention to inside rear duals. Make it a habit to
check tire pressures before each trip, and each
time you refuel.
b. Descending a Hill:
It is a good idea to select a lower gear on
your transmission when descending a hill
to avoid prolonged application of the
brakes. Extended application of the brakes
can cause unnecessary wear and tear and
overheating. Under extreme conditions this
could cause you to lose control of the
vehicle.
5.5
DRIVING CHARACTERISTICS
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