Monaco SIGNATURE 2001 series, Owner'S Manual

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A majority of the lighting and appliances are designed to operate from 12
Volt DC (direct current) power. This is why the batteries play such an impor-
tant role in the function of the motorhome. There are exceptions with appli-
ances such as the microwave or television; however, indirectly they still oper-
ate from 12 Volt DC power, as they can be operated from the inverter. The
chassis functions (engine, transmission, dash air, etc.) are also 12 Volt DC.
With all the technological advancements in the past several years, manufac-
turers have now incorporated electronics into these systems. It is important to
keep the 12 Volt system(s) in good working order. These systems, with their
incorporated electronics, are voltage sensitive. Some items can be damaged if
the DC voltage is not maintained within the designed specifications.
There are two separate 12 Volt systems. One is the chassis system, the other
is the house system. These two systems, for the most part, are separate from
one another. The house system does not operate engine functions, as the engine
system does not operate house functions; however, within the two systems
there are some interconnections. For an example: While driving the
motorhome, the alternator on the engine will charge the house batteries.
Likewise, while the motorhome is plugged into shore power or the generator is
running, the engine battery(s) are being charged. Each system will supply 12
Volt DC power to the 12 Volt distribution panels. The 12 Volt panel that servic-
es a majority of the chassis system functions is located outside by the driver’s
front wheel. The other panel, located in the bedroom, services the house interi-
or functions, such as the interior lighting and appliances. You should become
familiar with these panels and the items they operate.
The two different systems, engine and house, have their own set(s) of bat-
tery(s). The engine battery supplies 12 Volt DC power to the front distribution
panel located in an outside compartment by the driver’s side front wheel. This
panel contains mostly engine system fuses and wiring, such as headlights, tail-
lights, dashboard functions, gauges, etc. The house battery(s) supplies 12 Volt
DC power to the distribution panel located in the bedroom.
The main battery disconnect for the chassis battery turns the DC power on
or off to the rear and front run boxes. Most chassis and engine functions are
interrupted when the battery disconnect is turned off. Some electronic items
require a constant power source for memory retention such as the dash and
CB radios. The security system requires a constant power source to remain
operational when the disconnect switch is off. Some electronic components of
the engine and transmission require a constant power source. Turn the main
battery disconnect switch off when the motorhome is going to be stored or
when performing electrical maintenance. If possible, leave the motorhome
plugged into an AC source with the battery disconnect switch on. This will
Electrical Systems - Chassis
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S I G N A T U R E 9 • 2 2 4
INTRODUCTION
BATTERY
DISCONNECT
- CHASSIS