Monaco DIPLOMAT 2004, Owner'S Manual

Page: 48 / 446

DIPLOMAT 2004
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DRIVING & SAFETY
Guidelines to Help Increase Fuel Efficiency:
• When starting out, apply the throttle lightly and accelerate gradually,
avoid using excessive throttle and accelerating quickly.
• Check the tire pressure. A low tire is not only a safety hazard, it also
increases rolling resistance which increases fuel consumption.
• While operating the motorhome, keep the engine at a low to mid
operating range of 1100 to 1500 RPM. This will use less fuel than
operating at higher RPM.
• Avoid using full throttle when ascending a long hill. This wastes fuel
and increases engine operating temperature from incomplete
combustion. Manually downshift to a lower gear and use less throttle.
Fuel will burn more efficiently.
• Avoid extended idling to "warm-up" the engine. Start the engine and
wait long enough for normal oil pressure to register. Engage the high
idle feature until the engine coolant temperature gauge rises. The
engine is now ready for travel. Whenever coolant temperature is
below 160° F (as in an idling engine) incomplete combustion occurs.
This causes carbon buildup and raw fuel will wash the lubricating oil
from the cylinder walls diluting the crankcase oil.
• Excessive idling (more than 15 or 20 minutes) can clog fuel injectors
and may eventually cause piston rings and valves to stick.
• Operate the transmission with the MODE function set to Economy
whenever possible; this allows for earlier shifts and enhanced fuel
economy.
• Follow the maintenance schedule for the engine, transmission and
chassis. Proper maintenance will lead to enhanced fuel economy,
motorhome performance, and overall longevity.
Refueling:
• Truck stops are good refueling points for motorhomes.
• Know which side the fuel port is on. There may not be adequate
space to turn around in the parking lot to reposition for the pump.
• Check overhead clearance heights before pulling through the fuel
island.
• Be aware of the concrete/steel posts installed around the fuel island.
• Avoid running over the fuel hose as it can get hung up on the
motorhome, causing body damage.
• Use of gloves is recommended for refueling. Store the gloves in the
outside compartment.
• To prevent grease and fuel deposits from being tracked into the
motorhome when refueling, change shoes before entering the
motorhome. Store the extra pair near the entry door.
WARNING: Avoid the risk of fire or explosion. Turn off all pilot
lights and appliances before entering a refueling station.