Monaco DIPLOMAT 2004, Руководство пользователя

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DRIVING & SAFETY
DIPLOMAT 2004
Whether you are a long time owner of recreational vehicles or just starting
out, backing up can be a challenge. Following some simple guidelines may help
reduce the challenge. When backing up, the driver (pilot) should be comfortable
using the mirrors, the back-up camera and the co-pilot’s directions (ground guide)
for assistance. Practice first, backing up with the co-pilot’s guidance in a large
unobstructed parking lot. Backing up is a team effort.
The backing up process should begin while the motorhome is in forward
motion. Maneuver the motorhome to align with the chosen site. This allows
straight alignment with the site. Aligning the motorhome with the site after the
backing process begins will require considerably more room than an automobile,
and may require more than one attempt. When the motorhome is properly aligned
with the site, the parking area will be visible in both mirrors. Use straight lines,
such as road markings, as reference points when possible.
If the destination does not have “pull-through” sites, try to pick a solid, level
site. If possible, pick a site located on the left side. This is the preferred side. The
driver will have a better field of vision by using the roadside mirror. If the site is
on the right side, the driver will have to use the curbside mirror for backing up,
which leaves a blind spot. When a potential site is spotted, stop the motorhome
before the site. Get out and observe the area for soft ground, posts, large rocks,
low hanging limbs or other obstacles. If the site meets the particular criteria,
prepare to back in carefully. Have the co-pilot provide guidance using the five
hand signals.
The co-pilot will perform just as important a job as the driver. When
guiding the driver, the co-pilot should be located safely at the left rear corner of
the motorhome, facing forward, while remaining visible in the roadside mirror at
all times. The co-pilot should make a conscious effort to maintain sight of the
driver through the roadside mirror as the front of the motorhome maneuvers.
If the driver loses sight of the co-pilot, stop the backing up process until the
co-pilot returns to view. To avoid mishaps, the co-pilot should be focused only on
what the driver is doing, with brief observation moments. The driver should
receive directions only from the co-pilot. If necessary, stop the backing up
process to have co-pilot inspect other areas or angles of concern. Use of
walkie-talkies will aid in guidance.
When the co-pilot is guiding the driver, only five clearly defined signals
should be used, with only one signal given at a time. Flailing arms with
indecisive signals only confuse the driver. Signals should be given with purpose
and confidence. Directional signals are directing travel of the rear of the
motorhome.
If the desired direction is left, the co-pilot points left. For example: The
co-pilot will use his/her right arm and forefinger pointing distinctly left with arm
and finger held on a horizontal plane, indicating desired direction of travel of the
rear of the motorhome. This type of directional signal is easily discerned in the
mirror by the driver. The directional signal given will remain steady until desired
movement is completed.
BACKING UP
A MOTORHOME