Holiday Neptune 2004, Owner'S Manual

Page: 47 / 416

DRIVING & SAFETY --- SECTION 2 • 47
NEPTUNE 2004
2
Wet Conditions:
• The risk of hydroplaning is increased if tires are worn or improperly
inflated.
• Be aware that heavy rain or deep standing water can affect brake
application causing them to apply unevenly or grab.
Fuel Economy:
Driving styles, wind resistance, terrain, vehicle weight, and engine-driven
accessories are some of the many factors that contribute to the fuel economy.
Guidelines to Help Increase Fuel Efficiency:
• When starting out, apply the throttle lightly and accelerate gradually,
avoid using excessive throttle and accelerating quickly.
• Check the tire pressure. A low tire is not only a safety hazard, it also
increases rolling resistance which increases fuel consumption.
• While operating the motorhome, keep the engine at a low to mid operating
range of 1100 to 1500 RPM. This will use less fuel than operating at
higher RPM.
• 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
efficiently.
• Avoid extended idling to "warm-up" the engine. Start the engine and wait
long enough 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 (as
in an idling engine) incomplete combustion occurs. This causes carbon
buildup and raw fuel will wash the lubricating oil from the cylinder walls
diluting the crankcase oil.
• Excessive idling (more than 15 or 20 minutes) can clog fuel injectors and
may eventually cause 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, transmission and
chassis. Proper maintenance will lead to enhanced fuel economy,
motorhome performance, and overall longevity.