Holiday Trip 2012, Owner'S Manual

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2012 Trip
Adjust to Driving Conditions
Road, weather and terrain will vary. It is
necessary to adapt to these changing conditions
to safely operate the motorhome. Pay attention
to road signs that advise of local road hazards
and weather conditions. Do not operate the
motorhome when road, weather and terrain
conditions can be perceived as unsafe.
The cockpit, dash area and windshield are
larger than those found on passenger cars and
trucks. Keep the windshield clear of humidity in
the form of water or ice. Start the motorhome and
turn on the dash defrost to help remove moisture
from inside the windshield. It may be necessary
to use a clean cloth to wipe away moisture. Do
not operate the motorhome if the windshield
is not clear. Keep windshield wipers in good
working order at all times.
Driving Cautions:
Avoid getting too close to the shoulder
of the road, which may be too soft to
support the weight of the motorhome.
Side spacing is best maintained by
keeping the motorhome centered in the
driving lane.
Driving lanes in work zones can be
uneven, congested and more narrow
than usual.
Be cautious of road debris that can
damage the undercarriage of the
motorhome or become lodged in the
dual tires and cause damage to the
tires, wheel rims or tow vehicle.
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On back roads and single divided
roads, tree branches and shrubbery can
protrude into the roadway. Watch for
low hanging branches especially during
inclement weather. Rain and snow
will cause branches to hang lower than
usual.
Keep in mind that posted speed signs
are usually passenger automobile rated.
Be extra aware of driving conditions
and use the appropriate speed for a
motorhome when necessary, especially
on corners and mountain roads.
Downgrade speed should be at least
5 mph less than upgrade speed, or
downgrade speed should be attainable
within three seconds of a brake
application.
Use a four second rule when following
other vehicles at speeds under 40 mph.
Use a five second rule when following
at speeds over 40 mph.
Right Turns:
Negotiating a right hand turn in a motorhome
can be difficult. Many drivers fear they cannot
make the turn without entering into the other
lane or jumping the curb. Here are a few tips to
make a right hand turn easier:
As the turn approaches, look into the
mirror to ensure the lane to the left is
clear, then move wide over to the left.
When making the right turn, the left
rear wheel should touch the center line
of the road and the driver’s hips should
be parallel to the roadside curb of the
corner being turned to aid in avoiding a
premature turn.
Make the turn slowly.
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Make the turn slowly.
Check mirrors frequently. Stay aware
of necessary clearance and space
management of the motorhome while
negotiating the turn.
Left Turns:
Do not proceed with the turn until
the driver’s seat is aligned with the
center of the intersection. If two lanes
are available, use the right hand lane.
Vehicles or objects are more easily
seen by the driver on the left hand side.
Ascending a Grade:
When approaching a grade, assess the grade
and length before ascending. Prepare early for
a long ascent. Unlike gasoline engines, diesels
do not necessarily produce more power by
pressing further on the accelerator.
Power output from a diesel depends on the
following circumstances:
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