MDC FORBES 12+ Owner'S Manual Download Page 1

Page: 1 / 116

www.marketdirect.com.au

Ph: 1300 494 494

©Copyright

P a g e

FORBES 12+

OFFROAD CARAVAN

____________________________________________________________________________________

OWNER’S MANUAL

15yr Anniversary - Version 1

www.marketdirect.com.au

* 15 Year Anniversary AU Model shown.

Phone: 1300 494 494

Summary of Contents for FORBES 12+

Page 1: ...OAD CARAVAN ____________________________________________________________________________________ OWNER S MANUAL 15yr Anniversary Version 1 www marketdirect com au 15 Year Anniversary AU Model shown Ph...

Page 2: ...ng the Caravan 36 Preparing for Bad Weather 36 Packing Down Your Caravan 36 Storage Care 37 Care and Maintenance of the Caravan 39 Protection of Finishes 39 Paint 39 Acrylic Windows 39 Internal Finish...

Page 3: ...rouble Shooting 65 Useful Accessories 66 Trouble Shooting 68 12 Volt Electrical 68 240 Volt Electrical 68 Solar Charging 69 Charging from Tow Vehicle 70 Charging from Mains Power 70 Control Panel Acce...

Page 4: ...ls and experience It is not suitable for people who are not trained or qualified in the subject matter it deals with If you do not have the appropriate skills and experience or if you do not have acce...

Page 5: ...Forbes 12 Hybrid Caravan DISCLAIMER by receiving this handbook you confirm there you have read and agree to all the terms and conditions and understood the use and maintenance care of MDC NAME ADDRES...

Page 6: ...d by the manufacturer with empty water tanks excluding fluids not essential for operation on public roads and without luggage or personal effects ATM Aggregate Trailer Mass Rating The total permissibl...

Page 7: ...g towards the centerline of the vehicle Toe can be measured in linear units at the front or rear of the tyre or as an angular deflection In the case of MDC products the toe in is measured in millimete...

Page 8: ...k 1700mm L x 600mm W x 80mm H FINISH Galvanised chassis external aluminium composite panel BODY CONSTRUCTION Combination of welded aluminium 50 x 25 RHS and 75X25RHS and 25X25 square aluminium alloy T...

Page 9: ...oof screens SKYLIGHT S AND ROOF HATCHES Skylight over the bed with 12V lighting and double cassette blind AIR CONDITIONER OPTIONAL Truma Aventa comfort 2400W roof mounted air conditioning system with...

Page 10: ...2170 Newcastle Unit 1 2364 Pacific Hwy Heatherbrae NSW 2324 VICTORIA Melbourne 3 124 Canterbury Rd Kilsyth South VIC 3137 Campbellfield 1551 Sydney RD Campbellfield VIC 3061 WESTERN AUSTRALIA Welshpo...

Page 11: ...a the Anderson plug on the drawbar WARNING BALL LOADING DOWNWARD LOAD ON TOW HITCH MUST NOT EXCEED 350KG OR THE MAXIMUM ALLOWABLE LOAD BY THE VEHICLE MANUFACTURER OR TOW BAR RATING WHICH EVER IS THE L...

Page 12: ...on the side of the body behind the wheels provided it has the correct positive engagement fitting to match the trailer To ensure safe usage the following must be followed The jack is to be used on le...

Page 13: ...an explosion Warning Shock Hazard Keep Away From Children Avoid moisture Never expose unit to snow water etc Inverter Unit provides 230 VAC treat the AC output socket the same as regular wall AC sock...

Page 14: ...supply a maintenance charge to the battery batteries that power the system should it be activated In all MDC products the breakaway is powered by the house batteries in the caravan For this purpose a...

Page 15: ...top power supply when vehicle is not running 2 50 amp fuse or circuit breaker at the battery Notes The Projecta IDC25L DC to DC controller fitted in your MDC trailer is programmed to favour the solar...

Page 16: ...to apply and how often to increase the stability of your caravan while driving The BG 5000 has been factory fitted precisely with the controller module mounted in the front underneath section of your...

Page 17: ...y and modes of the unit It is located on the drawbar for ease of access When inactive the system will enter sleep mode to conserve power To wake the system and check operation connect the tow plug to...

Page 18: ...rain The unit will return to normal green light when not on rough terrain No light Unit in sleep mode Activate manual override on the brake controller to wake up unit No power after wake up from brake...

Page 19: ...ase refer to the provided manual for contact details Disclaimer Electronic stability control systems are NOT substitutes for safe driving or towing practices In no event shall MDC be liable for loss o...

Page 20: ...ughly with fresh water as soon as possible after the application of the soap solution Never use a match or flame when checking leaks Never use cooking appliances for comfort heating In the event of a...

Page 21: ...ing the Flue Cover Caution To use your inbuilt Truma hot water system the external flue covers must be removed prior to starting the unit First open the flue dust cover shown Remove lockable cover Rem...

Page 22: ...e intake and output vents are always clear and free of obstruction Always allow the heater unit to cool under ventilation mode before turning off unit Never use the diesel heater in a confined area e...

Page 23: ...MANUFACTURER OR TOW BAR RATING WHICH EVER IS THE LOWEST Exceeding these limits may result in an accident causing serious injury or death and or property damage Always load evenly to both sides of the...

Page 24: ...fluence the handling and performance Overloading the front or rear may cause adverse handling and sway Additionally overloading the front or back can induce a pendulum effect that can cause dangerous...

Page 25: ...mild weather conditions and should be packed away in high winds During rain one side must be lowered to prevent water pooling which can damage the awning When set up as an annex the awning has a high...

Page 26: ...ab and pull kitchen out The kitchen will lock into place when extended To put kitchen away again press down the blue tabs and push back into place To connect the gas plug the gas bayonet into the outl...

Page 27: ...tch system to minimise the lash effect of the commercial suspension and distance from the rear axle to the tow point Truck suspension can be harsh particularly in off road conditions The long distance...

Page 28: ...94 I Copyright I P a g e 28 How to Hitch your coupling Here is a short guide on how to safely use your coupling to couple and uncouple the trailer from the towing vehicle Make sure the handbrake is ap...

Page 29: ...t cap onto the groove of the bump cover and then pushing it in a downward motion until the dust cover is secure there should be a slight click when it has been assembled correctly Test if the dust cov...

Page 30: ...mechanism back 2 When the locking mechanism 2 is all the way back release the button 1 locking the plate in place STEP 2 Offer up the tow pin to the coupling making sure the tow pin cover is removed a...

Page 31: ...ee below Press the button 1 to release the locking mechanism there will be an audible locking noise at which point the mechanism will return to the initial position as shown in step 1 Verify the pin i...

Page 32: ...upling STEP 1 Push down the button 1 and push the locking mechanism back 2 When the locking mechanism is all the way back release the button while holding the mechanism to ensure it does not spring ba...

Page 33: ...hains Breakaway Switch Lanyard Connection DO NOT CONNECT THE BREAKAWAY LANYARD TO THE SAME POINT AS THE SAFETY CHAIN SHACKLES DO NOT USE THE BREAKAWAY AS AN ALTERNATIVE TO THE HANDBRAKE AND DO NOT REM...

Page 34: ...to prevent them dragging on the road but not too tight as to restrict the articulation of the vehicle and trailer combination Connecting the Electrics When connecting ensure the electric cables to you...

Page 35: ...ction The red light on the monitor is off check whether the car charger 12V accessory socket is plugged in and has power The red light on the monitor is on but there is no video image 1 check if the p...

Page 36: ...winds by retracting or securing with guy ropes and pegs Ensure your caravan is not parked in ground that will become boggy and prevent exiting the camp area Lower annex corner poles to create a pitch...

Page 37: ...cking up If moisture is found allow to thoroughly dry before closing your camper Store 1 or 2 moisture absorbing packs dehumidifier packs in the caravan to draw away any residual water vapor If packin...

Page 38: ...dust cap is securely connected to the bump cover This is done by locating the rear lip on the dust cap onto the groove of the bump cover and then pushing it in a downward motion until the dust cover...

Page 39: ...leaners that contain ammonia or solvents Internal Finishes Laminates and internal wall surfaces should be cleaned with a damp soft cloth For stubborn marks use a mild detergent based cleaner Do not us...

Page 40: ...or adhesion has failed it should be repaired immediately Solar Panels Accumulated dirt and soiling can affect the performance of the solar panels Panels should be cleaned as necessary to prevent this...

Page 41: ...IPh 1300 494 494 I Copyright I P a g e 41 Winegard Sensar III Antenna optional Extra Where fitted as an option the mechanism for your Winegard antenna should be lubricated according to the manufactur...

Page 42: ...www marketdirect com au IPh 1300 494 494 I Copyright I P a g e 42...

Page 43: ...5000km under normal use and 2500km for harsh off road conditions During travel they should be inspected daily to ensure they have not rotated or become damaged Correct torque is 190Nm CAUTION Hand Br...

Page 44: ...il desired adjustment achieved 3 Re tighten locknut A For extended adjustment or to balance left and right cables 1 Choose the side you want to adjust and undo locknut B 2 Turn locknut C behind mounti...

Page 45: ...niques tools and parts for servicing axles as well as in the skill of the individual doing the work will determine outcomes This manual cannot possibly anticipate all such variations nor provide advic...

Page 46: ...oil or abnormally scored or gouged It is important to replace both shoes on each brake and both brakes of the same axle This is necessary to retain the balance of your brakes Be sure to replace your...

Page 47: ...ate level to suit the conditions you are experiencing and the loaded weight of your caravan WARNING When returning to the highway or when increasing speed you must reinflate the tyres to correct highw...

Page 48: ...oltmeter will indicate battery voltage when idle or charge voltage when charging Amp meter will show current being used not charge current Main Circuit Breaker The main 12v circuit breaker is located...

Page 49: ...t In the event a 15A outlet is unavailable you will need a conversion box that will step up from 10A to 15A with a safety switch Never leave power leads coiled when in use lay the lead out back and fo...

Page 50: ...r wire for the ECU to detect the charge requirement of the RV battery Lithium Battery System Your 15 Year Anniversary Edition RV is fitted with a 200Ah Lithium Iron Phosphate LiFePO4 battery system re...

Page 51: ...ailer is equipped with an internal battery management system BMS to protect the battery from conditions such as overcharge over discharge and short circuits In the event the internal BMS is triggered...

Page 52: ...www marketdirect com au IPh 1300 494 494 I Copyright I P a g e 52 12 Volt Wiring Diagram Main Circuit C o m i n g S o o n...

Page 53: ...www marketdirect com au IPh 1300 494 494 I Copyright I P a g e 53 Wiring Diagram Switch Panel Com ing Soon...

Page 54: ...ust not use the device as a toy To avoid the risk of accidental resetting of the over temperature guard the device may not be supplied with power via an external contactor such as a timer nor may it b...

Page 55: ...e when travelling Do not operate the water heater when refueling the vehicle and when it is in the garage Items sensitive to heat e g spray cans must not be stored in the installation area since exces...

Page 56: ...ven if the heater has not been used As an alternative two shut off valves resistant to hot water can be fitted in front of the cold and hot water connection Pressure and Temperature Relief Valve P T s...

Page 57: ...all cowl is positioned close to an opening window or hatch in particular directly under it the window must remain closed when the water heater is in use see warning plate Removing The Cowl Cover Grab...

Page 58: ...ng on page 6 To unlock switch off the appliance wait 10 minutes and switch on again Maintenance Do not modify this appliance Servicing should only be carried out by authorised personnel Only original...

Page 59: ...switch on again Heater operates for a prolonged time and then the red lamp lights up Excess temperature thermostat has responded Check water level refill if required close drain valve To unlock switch...

Page 60: ...p water continuously until the tap is turned off and pressure restored Should the pumps activate while the taps is turned off this could indicate a leak and require investigation and rectification Sel...

Page 61: ...in the cupboard beneath the cooktop All gas appliances and supply must be turned off at the isolation valve when towing Always turn off your gas bottle before towing your caravan Never use gas applian...

Page 62: ...the manufacturer Thetford The recommended product for the waste holding tank on Thetford toilet systems is Aqua Kem Blue or Aqua Kem Green Cassette Tank Cleaner is the recommended product for this app...

Page 63: ...t Ensure intake and output vents are always clear and free of obstruction Always allow the heater unit to cool under ventilation mode before turning off unit Never use the diesel heater in a confined...

Page 64: ...e fuel pump is around 65 seconds Temperature Control When the combustor is ignited and running you can turn the control knob according to the arc mark around the control switch 1 to control the temper...

Page 65: ...third time of combustion 3 Power voltage out of specified range 4 Combustion chamber temperature too high during self check period 6 Broken circuit or short circuit of temperature sensor 7 Broken circ...

Page 66: ...safer and faster See below images Wheel Chocks Wheel chocks are an important safety device when leaving your trailer parked on even the slightest incline On level ground it is recommended to chock bo...

Page 67: ...494 494 I Copyright I P a g e 67 Stone Protection There are proprietary devices available that assist in protecting your trailer from stones thrown up by the tow vehicle Rock Tamer and Stone Stomper a...

Page 68: ...charger is plugged in and power point is turned on Not charging from solar Tripped solar panel circuit breaker s Check CB6 CB7 near batteries if black pin is protruding from end of breaker push back i...

Page 69: ...g low voltage output Weak solar input due to shade Move to sunnier area Weak solar due to dirty panels Clean panels Incorrect setting Ensure DC to DC is set to correct battery type Solar charging not...

Page 70: ...nator Connect trigger wire for DC to DC to accessory power from car via trailer plug Charging from Mains Power Symptom Possible Cause Remedy No power to charger Mains power not connected Connect mains...

Page 71: ...circuit breaker Reset circuit breaker CB1 Fig 1 Accessory circuit not working Tripped circuit breaker Reset circuit breaker above circuit switch by pushing in Listen for click RV Electronics tank gaug...

Page 72: ...imply push and if it resets you will hear a click High Load Breakers These are for higher current loads such as CB1 and CB2 fig 1 To reset the small lever protruding from the side needs to be pushed b...

Page 73: ...fill water tank and use mains pressure to pressurize tank Water tank is empty Fill water tank Kinked hose Check hoses ensuring none are fouled Damaged worn pump diaphragm Repair or replace pump Gas Pr...

Page 74: ...ation Correct Controller setting Poor Brake adjustment Adjust Brakes Glazed brake Linings Re burnish or replace linings Overloaded trailer Correct loading Check at weighbridge Brakes Locking Poor Sync...

Page 75: ...which can cause damage to seals resulting in shock absorber fade reduction in damping effect and in extreme cases failure of the seal completely On rough and corrugated roads it s important to adjust...

Page 76: ...resupply for fuel food and water Some remote fuel stations may run out of fuel during busy periods or times when large fuel trucks are unable to access the area due to road conditions and closures or...

Page 77: ...claims for those products under any other warranties as may apply This Warranty does not cover damage due to unauthorised modifications misuse abuse incorrect assembly improper or irregular maintenanc...

Page 78: ...Warranty they may be covered by other warranties you have in respect of the product This Warranty expressly applies to Tents for the general 12 Month term including our canvas components poles and fi...

Page 79: ...tion but providing us with further material may not change the result or If we have insufficient information to either accept or reject a claim we will ask you to provide us with more information to a...

Page 80: ...au IPh 1300 494 494 I Copyright I P a g e 80 Travel Record Your caravan service record booklet and logbook will help you keep track of kilometres travels and service records Trip Name Date Km Start Km...

Page 81: ...www marketdirect com au IPh 1300 494 494 I Copyright I P a g e 81 Trip Name Date Km Start Km Finish Cumulative Km...

Page 82: ...3 Regularly lubricate grease points with multi purpose grease 4 Periodic adjustment of Slotted Nut Pin may be required of coupling head loosens excessively and should be a competent person 5 Flush wi...

Page 83: ...a lanolin based lubricant Every 12 months Roof Skirt Elastic Cord The elastic cord surrounding the PVC roof skirt is placed to ensure the skirt pulls inward when lowering the roof This is an important...

Page 84: ...tters and obstructions in a heavy matter Always use a ramp or similar if you are backing over high gutters and obstacles Spare Part Numbers Hub Suspension Components Timken Bearing inner outer bearing...

Page 85: ...www marketdirect com au IPh 1300 494 494 I Copyright I P a g e 85 Hub Assembly...

Page 86: ...www marketdirect com au IPh 1300 494 494 I Copyright I P a g e 86 Trailing Arm Bushes...

Page 87: ...load of any recovery straps or tow straps being used Hardware Shackles are an integral part of any recovery kit Soft shackles pictured below add a great deal of safety to any recovery situation as th...

Page 88: ...are unlucky enough to damage more tyres than you have spare A compressor is a must have to reinflate your tyres after deflating for rough and corrugated roads A tyre gauge is a must have to deflate yo...

Page 89: ...no loose fittings Seals Latches Check all seals on doors and hatches compress 30 50 All seals in serviceable condition and free of damage Suspension Grease bushes and check for play Check torque on su...

Page 90: ...rminals and voltage at full charge Seals Check condition and correct latch lock adjustment for correct 30 50 compression General fixings Check all structural fixing are secure Seals Latches Check all...

Page 91: ...pressure Check manufacturing date less than 5 years Check sidewalls for perishing and damage 12 volt electrical Lights Check all trailer lights are functioning Check plug pins have gap Check for corro...

Page 92: ...ner and flush Grey Water Tank Treat with tank cleaner and flush Drain Fittings Check all metal drain fittings for corrosion Water System Inspect for leaks Turn on pump and ensure it doesn t start due...

Page 93: ...inals and voltage at full charge Seals Check condition and correct latch lock adjustment for correct 30 50 compression General fixings Check all structural fixing are secure Seals Latches Check all se...

Page 94: ...pressure Check manufacturing date less than 5 years Check sidewalls for perishing and damage 12 volt electrical Lights Check all trailer lights are functioning Check plug pins have gap Check for corro...

Page 95: ...ner and flush Grey Water Tank Treat with tank cleaner and flush Drain Fittings Check all metal drain fittings for corrosion Water System Inspect for leaks Turn on pump and ensure it doesn t start due...

Page 96: ...inals and voltage at full charge Seals Check condition and correct latch lock adjustment for correct 30 50 compression General fixings Check all structural fixing are secure Seals Latches Check all se...

Page 97: ...pressure Check manufacturing date less than 5 years Check sidewalls for perishing and damage 12 volt electrical Lights Check all trailer lights are functioning Check plug pins have gap Check for corro...

Page 98: ...ner and flush Grey Water Tank Treat with tank cleaner and flush Drain Fittings Check all metal drain fittings for corrosion Water System Inspect for leaks Turn on pump and ensure it doesn t start due...

Page 99: ...inals and voltage at full charge Seals Check condition and correct latch lock adjustment for correct 30 50 compression General fixings Check all structural fixing are secure Seals Latches Check all se...

Page 100: ...pressure Check manufacturing date less than 5 years Check sidewalls for perishing and damage 12 volt electrical Lights Check all trailer lights are functioning Check plug pins have gap Check for corro...

Page 101: ...ner and flush Grey Water Tank Treat with tank cleaner and flush Drain Fittings Check all metal drain fittings for corrosion Water System Inspect for leaks Turn on pump and ensure it doesn t start due...

Page 102: ...inals and voltage at full charge Seals Check condition and correct latch lock adjustment for correct 30 50 compression General fixings Check all structural fixing are secure Seals Latches Check all se...

Page 103: ...pressure Check manufacturing date less than 5 years Check sidewalls for perishing and damage 12 volt electrical Lights Check all trailer lights are functioning Check plug pins have gap Check for corro...

Page 104: ...ner and flush Grey Water Tank Treat with tank cleaner and flush Drain Fittings Check all metal drain fittings for corrosion Water System Inspect for leaks Turn on pump and ensure it doesn t start due...

Page 105: ...inals and voltage at full charge Seals Check condition and correct latch lock adjustment for correct 30 50 compression General fixings Check all structural fixing are secure Seals Latches Check all se...

Page 106: ...pressure Check manufacturing date less than 5 years Check sidewalls for perishing and damage 12 volt electrical Lights Check all trailer lights are functioning Check plug pins have gap Check for corro...

Page 107: ...ner and flush Grey Water Tank Treat with tank cleaner and flush Drain Fittings Check all metal drain fittings for corrosion Water System Inspect for leaks Turn on pump and ensure it doesn t start due...

Page 108: ...inals and voltage at full charge Seals Check condition and correct latch lock adjustment for correct 30 50 compression General fixings Check all structural fixing are secure Seals Latches Check all se...

Page 109: ...pressure Check manufacturing date less than 5 years Check sidewalls for perishing and damage 12 volt electrical Lights Check all trailer lights are functioning Check plug pins have gap Check for corro...

Page 110: ...ner and flush Grey Water Tank Treat with tank cleaner and flush Drain Fittings Check all metal drain fittings for corrosion Water System Inspect for leaks Turn on pump and ensure it doesn t start due...

Page 111: ...67 Denham Street Rockhampton QLD 4700 Ph 07 4927 2677 Email rockhampton statewidebearings com au Townsville Unit 2 502 Woolcock Street Garbutt QLD 4814 Ph 07 4758 8855 Email townsville statewidebearin...

Page 112: ...angara WA 6065 Ph 08 9303 6900 Email wangara statewidebearings com au Wingfield Grand Jct Rd South Rd Wingfield SA 5013 Ph 08 8260 6299 Email wingfield statewidebearings com au Dandenong South 84 Gree...

Page 113: ...ode or go to https youtu be JA7ZSRJPnS4 Setup Tuition Scan the code or go to https youtu be hcLa2iNU_pE Pack Down Tuition Scan the code or go to https youtu be nMtvPPC69oQ Annex Setup Tuition Scan the...

Page 114: ...41 Coupling 31 Decalcification 59 Diesel Heater 64 Diesel Heater Safety 22 Draining the Water Heater 58 Driving Off Road 76 Effects of Weight Distribution 24 Effects of Weight Distribution 25 Electri...

Page 115: ...are Part Numbers 85 Specifications 8 Stainless Steel 40 Storage Care 38 Supplier Contact Details 112 Suspension 48 Suspension 85 Switching Off Gas Operation 59 Switching On Gas Operation 58 Temperatur...

Page 116: ...www marketdirect com au IPh 1300 494 494 I Copyright I P a g e 116...

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