While Driving - Monaco Monarch 2000 Service Manual

M
ONACO
2000

While Driving

Because your motorhome is longer than the average automobile the turning radius
will be wider. Therefore, it is always a good idea to pay close attention when turning your
motorhome. Keep a close eye on the rear of the motorhome making sure it will clear
potential obstacles. Your motorhome is also heavier than an average automobile with a
higher center of gravity. Those factors may make it difficult to change momentum of your
motorhome. Swerves and sharp turns, especially at high speeds, could result in loss of
control of the motorhome. You should always keep that in mind and drive with extra
caution necessary to avoid situations which might require quick momentum changes.
You will find that your motorhome will travel safely and comfortably at highway speed
limits. However, it will take longer to reach that speed and you must always bear this in
mind when overtaking and passing another vehicle. Allow more time to go around other
vehicles because you cannot cut back as quickly, due to the longer length of your
motorhome. When descending a long hill, drop down into a lower gear. The transmis-
sion and engine will help in controlling downhill speed and can lengthen brake life. The
distance required to stop your motorhome will be greater than an automobile's. Even
though your motorhome is equipped with brakes designed for its Gross Vehicle Weight
Rating (GVWR), we suggest that you practice stopping, away from traffic, until you
become accustomed to the motorhome's stopping distance. When backing up, have your
co-pilot get out of the motorhome and walk to the driver's side rear corner. Your co-pilot
can watch for any obstacles and give hand signals to you as you back up. When travel-
ing make sure that any bridges you cross can support the weight of your motorhome.
Check tonnage limit of bridges before crossing them. Signs are normally posted at bridge
entrances. Know and observe the laws where you will be traveling as they may vary from
state to state.
Emergency Stopping
Always carry road flares or reflective warning signs to display if necessary. Pull off
the roadway as far as possible for emergency stopping or tire changing. Turn ON your
motorhome hazard warning flashers when parked alongside traffic lanes. Set the park-
ing brake.
Backing In
If your destination does not have drive through sites, pick a good level site and
back in carefully. We suggest that you stop near the site, get out of the motorhome and
observe the surrounding area. Check for low-hanging tree limbs, posts, large rocks or
other obstacles. Try to choose a site that is on the driver's side, so that you can see what
the rear of the motorhome is doing. With the site on the passenger side you would be
backing into the site on your blind side, which is more difficult. When site conditions are
2-2
Operating & Safety T
Operating & Safety T
Monarch
ip s
ip s