Planning And Preparation - Chapter; License And Insurance; Inspect And Maintain; Loading And Weight - Thor Motor Coach 2011 Avanti Owner's Manual

A thorough working knowledge of your motorhome is important if you are going to get
the most out of the convenience and safety items built into your unit. Be as familiar with it
as you are with your personal car or truck. Study all the booklets included in your Owner's
Information Kit. These booklets cover details of operation for the major appliances and
equipment built into your motorhome for your comfort, convenience and safety. Your
selling dealer should provide you with a complete walk through of your vehicle at the
time of purchase. Any questions and concerns should be addressed at that time.
The vehicle licensing laws vary from state-to-state. Check with your state license bureau
or nearest branch office for the requirements of your state. Be sure to renew your license
if it has expired or will expire during your trip. Your motorhome is considerably larger and
heavier than your car, therefore certain precautions should be exercised. A CDL license
may not be required to operate your motorhome, but Thor Motor Coach recommends
you attend a CDL class to better understand the motorhomes driving and handling
characteristics. Thor Motor Coach wants your driving experience to be pleasant and
enjoyable.
Talk to your insurance agent about the appropriate coverage for your motorhome. Always
carry your policy card.
Follow a consistent schedule of inspection and maintenance for your motorhome.
Your continuing safety and comfort depend on it. This manual includes recommended
maintenance intervals and instructions. Adherence to these schedules will minimize
the possibility of failure of any important system or part of your motorhome. The time
spent inspecting and maintaining your motorhome will provide you with many years of
recreational pleasure. Improper inspections or maintenance neglect may invalidate your
Limited Warranty.
Proper loading is one of the most important considerations when traveling in a
motorhome. Your motorhome is built to withstand a certain maximum load. Check the
Federal Certification Label located in the driver's area to determine the safe load limits.
For safety's sake, NEVER OVERLOAD THE MOTORHOME. This chapter contains information
about proper loading and weighing of your motorhome.
Know how to control your motorhome on the highway. Be familiar with passing and
stopping requirements, and problems that can develop. Know how to brake properly,
how to back up and how to turn. Practice in a secluded place until you become familiar
with the handling characteristics and techniques of your motorhome. Don't overlook the
laws of your state that govern driving a motorhome. Your state Motor Vehicle Department
office can provide you with the applicable vehicle codes that spell out your rights and
responsibilities as a motorhome owner.
Whenever you depart, be it from your home, rest area, or campsite. You should perform
these pre-travel checks:
Should be inspected before each trip for uneven wear, road damage, foreign objects,
peeling or bulging, and correct tire pressure. Heat generated by surface friction will
increase the tire's air pressure, therefore do not bleed air out of a hot tire. Check tire pressure
after the vehicle has been parked for at least one hour. Inflate tires to recommended
pressure as indicated on the Federal Certification Label located above the Drivers area.
(See maintenance schedule on page 73 .)
Proper tire inflation is extremely important.
When purchasing a new tire, be certain it is the same size and has the
same ply rating and load range as the original tire. DO NOT mix radial ply
with bias or bias-belted tires.
Chapter 2 - Planning and Preparation
READ THE BOOK
LICENSES
INSURANCE

INSPECT AND MAINTAIN

LOADING AND WEIGHT

DISTRIBUTION
CONTROL OF THE
MOTORHOME
PRE-TRAVEL CHECK
TIRES
17