Airstream INTERNATIONAL TRAILER, Owner'S Manual

Page: 85 / 138

AIRSTREAM INTERNATIONAL TRAILER OWNERS MANUAL
F-21
DRAIN AND WASTE SYSTEM
Your trailer has a drain and waste system that includes waste-holding tanks made from molded plastic, free
from corrosion problems, with trouble-free dump valves.
The MAIN (BLACK) HOLDING TANK enables you to use the toilet for several days away from disposal
facilities. The wastewater from the sink, shower, bath and lavatory drains in the AUXILIARY (GRAY)
HOLDING TANK. Each tank has its own dump valve, however, both tanks drain through a common
outlet. Therefore, you need to make only one connection when hooking up in a trailer park with sewer
facilities.
CAUTION
:
Never put wet strength paper towels or tissues in your holding tank since they won't
dissolve and can "catch" in the mechanism of the dump valve. Colored toilet tissue is slower to
dissolve than white. Most RV accessory stores offer tissue designed for RVs that will completely
dissolve.
Deodorizers
There are many deodorizers on the market in tablet, liquid and powder form. These not only combat odor,
but also stimulate the bacteria that works to dissolve the solids in your tank.
Monitor Panel
Check your monitor panel frequently. When the MAIN HOLDING TANK, (BLACK) is completely full,
sewage cannot be emptied from the toilet bowl. If the AUXILIARY HOLDING TANK (GREY) is
overfilled, drain water will "backup" into the tub and cause an unpleasant cleaning job. Never drain the
tanks at any place other than an approved dumping station. For complete instructions on this panel see
section G.
Emptying Tanks
Almost all campgrounds will have dumping facilities. Park directories such as Woodalls and Rand McNally
also list dumping stations.
To empty one or both tanks attach the sewer hose by pressing the bayonet fitting onto the dump valve outlet
and rotate clockwise until it feels solid and secure. Attach the outlet end of the hose to the sewage outlet;
making sure that the hose is placed so it will drain completely.
Pull the dump valve handle as far as it will go and wait until the tank is drained. When dumping, the main
holding tank should be dumped first; then the auxiliary holding tank. This will help to rinse out the sewer
line with auxiliary holding tank water.
The main holding tank must be flushed out until all paper and waste material is removed. Close the dump
valve and refill the tank with clean water and repeat until clean. Replace the cap prior to traveling.