REV Midwest Automotive Design American Coach Patriot 2022, Owner'S Manual

Page: 45 / 178

A M E R I C A N C O A C H P A T R I O T O W N E R ’ S M A N U A L
A M E R I C A N C O A C H // P A T R I O T S E C T I O N 5 // 4 3
create what is known as the venturi effect, where wind velocity
increases through the confined space beneath the overpass. Be
prepared for this to avoid overcorrecting as you pass through or clear
a tight space under windy conditions�
When parking with strong crosswind conditions, the best practice is to
position the American Coach Patriot into the wind whenever possible
to minimize your exposed surface area� This will make an overnight
stay in your coach more pleasant� It will also reduce the sound of the
wind rushing around and over your coach�
DANGER
While driving in windy conditions, be alert for roadside
objects that might suddenly blow into your path, such as
trash cans, branches, or trees. Reduce speed to increase
reaction time. Give large and heavy vehicles additional
space when passing or following. Avoid sudden maneuvers
in a cross wind, which could lead to loss of vehicle control,
resulting in serious injuries or death.
SNOW & ICE
Before heading out, the most important thing to do is make sure your
American Coach Patriot, yourself, and your passengers are ready for
the harsh conditions of winter travel� Your coach is designed, built, and
insulated to take on cold weather and winter travel conditions, but with
certain limitations� It is not a true four-season coach, and the plumbing
system must be winterized during periods where temperatures will
drop below the freezing level� Please refer to important information
on this in SECTION 12 – WINTERIZATION AND STORAGE� All other
systems are fully functional during winter months�
A great start to winter driving is to understand the on and off road
performance limitations of your American Coach Patriot� Understanding
your own driving abilities, and how well you are prepared to handle
the vehicle in a wintery mix of ice, snow, and slush will relieve a lot
of driving stress and anxiety� It is also extremely important to keep in
danger
mind that your coach is rather heavy, and that may translate into both
advantages and disadvantages on ice and snow� The extra weight
increases ground pressure, which may assist in getting the vehicle
moving on snow� At the same time however, the additional weight and
mass will be more difficult to stop, especially on icy roads.
When traveling during winter, especially in areas prone to heavy
accumulations of snow and ice, it is a good practice to carry winter
recovery gear, tow straps, shackles, a shovel, and tire chains (where
allowable or required by law). We do not recommend driving extended
distances with tire chains installed as they may damage the PVD
wheels, the
exterior running boards, and / or the finish of the coach.
Tire chains should only be used in emergency situations�
If your coach becomes disabled on ice or snow, be extremely careful
with how the vehicle is recovered� The only acceptable point from
which to use a tow strap or chain is from the rear trailer hitch safety
chain loops or via a ring mount style hitch draw bar fixed to the trailer
hitch assembly� The vehicle may be pulled from the rear by securing
a tow strap and slowly pulling from behind the vehicle with a suitable
recovery vehicle or tow truck� Never attempt to use a tow strap on any
portion of the front end of the coach, as this will damage the spoiler
/ air dam, and or the suspension components� Front end recovery
requires a specially equipped tow truck capable of lifting the front end
by raising the front wheels�
Remove all snow and ice from the windshield and hood of your coach,
If possible, carefully remove accumulated snow from the roof of the
coach as well� Use extra care not to damage any roof mounted vents,
antennas, solar panels or other equipment when clearing snow off
the roof� In many states, it is illegal to drive with snow on top of the
vehicle, because there is a possibility of the snow and ice blowing off
and creating a dangerous situation for other motorists�
If you reside in a warm climate and plan to travel to a cold climate
area, consider winterizing your plumbing system and holding tanks,
and make sure that your windshield washer fluid is rated to below
freezing temperatures� All season tires are required by most northern
states as well� A visit to your local Mercedes-Benz Sprinter Service
Department or American Coach Dealership in advance of travel to cold
weather areas is advisable� They will ensure your coach is ready�
Check the condition and performance of your vehicle batteries prior
to winter travels� Make sure they are fully charged and in good
working condition before your trip� Take note of the total capacity and