Monaco Camelot 2007, Owner'S Manual

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Section 2 — drivinG & Safety
1
camelot 2007
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, use the exhaust
brake in conjunction with the service brakes
to help maintain a slow, safe downhill speed.
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.
Check tonnage limits of bridges before
crossing to ensure they can support the weight
of the motorhome. Signs should be posted at
bridge entrances. Check the posted height of
all overpasses or situations where overhead
clearance is limited. Keep in mind that road
surfaces may be repaved or packed with snow;
therefore, the actual posted clearance height
would not apply in such conditions.
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.
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Driving lanes in work zones can be
uneven, congested and narrower 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.
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 as rain and snow will cause
branches to hang lower than usual.
Keep in consideration 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.
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downhill.eps