Monaco 2008 LaPalma XL, Owner'S Manual

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drIvInG & safety — 2
1
2 0 0 8 l a Pa l m a X l
The child safety seat can be positioned in two
places in the motorhome: the front passenger
(co-pilot) seat and forward facing permanently
mounted booth dinette seat.
WARNING:
DO NOT transport children unrestrained.
Infants must be placed in approved
safety seats - small children must be
restrained in child safety seats. DO NOT
use a single seat belt on more than one
child. Failure to comply with these rules
can lead to injury or death.
NOTE:
Individual states and Canadian
provinces may have laws that can exceed
the requirements as described in this
section. It is your responsibility to know
and comply with the laws in the state or
province in which you travel.
WARNING:
Because many styles of safety and booster
seats are available, refer to the safety
seat manufacturer’s manual for proper
installation and how to properly install
and secure the safety or booster seat.
NOTE:
Use of a safety or booster seat in the
front seat may be prohibited in some
states and Canadian provinces.
Seat Belt Care:
Keep the belt clean and dry. Clean with mild
soap and lukewarm water.
DO NOT clean seat
belts with bleach, dye or abrasive cleansers
that may weaken the belt material. Periodically
inspect belts for cuts, frays or loose parts, and
replace damaged parts.
DO NOT disassemble
or modify the system. Replace the seat belt
assembly after a severe impact, even when
damage is not obvious.
DrIvIng tIpS
The motorhome is a complex
vehicle that requires increased
driving awareness because of its
size and various components.
Due to the motorhome length
the turning radius will be
much wider than that of a
standard automobile. Always pay close attention
to the perimeter of the motorhome including
front, sides, rear, roof and undercarriage. Ensure
the surrounding area is clear of obstacles. Utilize
the driving mirrors to observe traffic conditions
as well as the motorhome exterior including
tires, bay doors, blind spots, etc. Use a push-pull
method of steering, with both hands parallel on
the steering wheel.
The motorhome is also heavier than an
automobile and has a higher center of gravity.
These factors affect the reaction time of the
motorhome. Swerving and sharp turning,
especially performed at high speeds, could result
in loss of control of the motorhome. Keep the
size of the motorhome in mind and drive with
extra caution to avoid situations which might
require quick momentum changes. Increase
reaction time by paying attention to traffic and
road conditions 12 to 15 seconds ahead of the
motorhome’s position.
The motorhome will travel safely and
comfortably at highway speed limits. However,
it takes more time to reach highway speed.
When passing another vehicle, allow extra time
and space to complete the pass due to the added
length of the motorhome.
When descending a long hill, manually shift
to a lower gear and begin the descent at a slow
speed.
DO NOT allow the motorhome to gain
momentum before trying to slow down. Use the
exhaust brake in conjunction with the service
brakes to help maintain a slow, safe descent.
The transmission and engine will help control
downhill speed and can extend the service life of
the brake lining.
Distance required to stop the motorhome is
greater than an automobile. Practice stopping
away from traffic to get the feel of distance
required to stop the motorhome.
Adjusting to road, weather and terrain
conditions is necessary to keep the motorhome
under control. Pay attention to road signs
that advise of local road hazards and driving
conditions.
DO NOT operate the motorhome
when road, weather and terrain conditions
seem unsafe.
Keep the windshield clear of humidity in the
form of water or ice. Start the motorhome
and turn on the dash defrost and the overhead
blowers to help remove moisture from inside
the windshield. It may also be necessary to
use a clean cloth to wipe away moisture. Keep
windshield wipers in good working order at all
times.
DO NOT operate the motorhome if the
windshield is not clear.
downhill.eps