Abs Plastic Parts; Alignment; Awning; Chassis - Thor Motor Coach 2011 Avanti Owner's Manual

Table of Contents

Some components of the recreational vehicle are constructed of strong, lightweight

ABS plastic. Sometimes, it may be necessary to remove stains, or generally clean. A mild

solution of soap and water will clean many stains, and should be used initially. Tougher

stains may require stronger cleaners, but be sure to read the label to determine if the

product is recommended for use on plastics. Avoid abrasive cleansers (even the liquid

and cream types), alcohol based products, and solvents such as acetone and MEK.

Gasoline and kerosene should not be used because of the damaging effect they have

on the plastic surface, as well as the fire hazard they present. Often the damage caused

by solvents, alcohol, and oil based products may not be immediately noticeable, but the

plastic is made weaker, and thus more prone to stress cracking.

The front suspension and steering system of this vehicle was factory aligned using

highly accurate equipment prior to delivery to the dealership. However, we recommend

that alignment be checked and if necessary, adjusted after you have fully loaded the

motorhome according to your personal needs. Thereafter, the alignment should be

inspected annually to help prevent uneven tire wear. All alignments and incurred costs

are the responsibility of the retail owner.

Check that the top and bottom bracket screws are tight at the start of each camping

season.

1. Lubricate the rafter arms and support arms using paraffin wax or silicone spray.

Also lubricate the threads on the knobs.

2. Periodically clean the awning fabric as follows: For a vinyl material use a mixture

of 1/4 cup of dish soap and 1/4 cup of bleach mixed with 5 gallons of warm water.

Liberally apply this mixture on the top of the fabric, then roll the awning up for 5

minutes. This will apply the mixture to the bottom as well. Roll the awning back out

and hose off with fresh water. Repeat if necessary. Allow to dry before rolling back

up. Avoid the use of caustic household cleaners, mildew removers or hard bristle

brushes. Do not scrub!

For an acrylic material, periodically hose off the fabric with water then let dry completely

before rolling it back up. The acrylic material is water repellent, not water proof. The fabric

is pretreated with a water retardant finish. Mildew cannot form on the fabric, but rather

will form on dirt or dust on the fabric. The key is to keep the fabric clean. Do not scrub!

Whenever the awning is wet while rolled up, as soon as conditions allow, roll it out, hose

it off and let it dry completely before rolling it back up again.

If you get water streaking or seeping behind the awning rail, inspect the rail for loose

screws or peeled sealant. Always make sure the awning is extended high enough before

opening the entry door.

Lower one end of the awning for proper water run off and to avoid water pooling and

possible damage to the awning.

Refer to your awning users guide for complete instructions on the care and maintenance

of your awning.

Failure to lower one side of the awning could result in damage to the

awning fabric and/or hardware due to the weight of water pooling.

Refer to your Chassis Operator's Manual for information on chassis service

recommendations.

Have the engine coolant and engine oil level checked each time when refueling.

Chapter 10 - Care and Maintenance