Jayco 2009 Melbourne, Owner'S Manual, Page: 37 / 102

SECTION 4
DRIVING & HANDLING
33
The monitor is operational whenever the
engine is running. To use the monitor, flip the
switch from standby to ON (the monitor will
also work when with the RV is in “reverse”
and the monitor in standby). Make sure you
turn the monitor to standby while driving to
avoid being distracted.
Never operate the rear vision monitor in the
ON position for extended periods of time as
this may result in an "image burn" on the
monitor.
B
RAKING
& S
TOPPING
You will find that your RV will travel safely and
comfortably at most posted trailer highway
speed limits. However, it will take longer than
a passenger automobile to reach that speed.
Keep this in mind when overtaking and
passing another vehicle. Allow more time to
go around the vehicle you are passing. You
cannot cut back into the traffic lane as quickly
due to the longer length of your RV. Drive
with caution to avoid situations that might
require quick momentum changes.
Even though your RV is equipped with brakes
designed for GVWR, we suggest practicing
stopping away from traffic until you become
accustomed to your RV’s stopping distance. A
good way to practice is at a large parking lot
(where it is permissible). Easing to a stop and
starting smoothly saves wear and tear on
your RV.
Drive defensively, try to anticipate problems
that may occur and prepare for them (even if
they may never happen). Be aware of road
surface conditions. Slow down well in
advance of dips and bumps to reduce the
jolting to your RV. Drive over them slowly and
let the tires pass over them before
accelerating. Cross railroad tracks slowly
(always release your brakes before crossing).
When descending a long hill, drop down into
a lower gear (or lower range if you have
automatic transmission). Avoid conditions that
require excessive and prolonged use of your
brakes. Apply and release brakes at short
intervals to give them a chance to cool. The
vehicle transmission and engine will help in
controlling downhill speed and can lengthen
brake life. The distance required to stop the
RV is greater than an automobile’s. Use care
when accelerating or decelerating on a
slippery surface. Abrupt speed changes can
cause skidding and loss of control.
Driving through water deep enough to wet the
brakes may affect stopping distance or cause
the vehicle to pull to one side. Check the RV’s
brake operation in a safe area to be sure they
have not been affected.
Never operate any
vehicle if a difference in braking efficiency
is noticeable.
Vehicle Clearance
Remember some bridges, older ones in
particular, may not support the weight of your
RV. Know the weight and size of your towing
combination and observe any posted weight
and clearance limits. The added height of roof
air conditioners, TV antennas or floodlights
may cause clearance problems around some
tunnels, canopies and hanging signs.
Turning Corners
When turning, the rear tires may not always
follow the path of your front tires. You must
compensate for this action by carefully pulling
the RV out into the intersection further than
you would normally so that the RV clears the
curb (or any parked vehicles along the curb).
When making a turn, check the road
clearance and be aware of others. Have
someone help guide you out of a difficult
parking space or traffic pattern. Swerves and
sharp turns, especially at high speeds, could
result in loss of control of the RV.
Your RV braking system is rated for
operation at GVWR not GCWR.
Whenever possible, do not travel with
waste in the holding tanks. Liquid or debris
in the holding tank(s) may affect the towing
characteristics and may result in property
damage or personal injury.