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In April 2008, after many requests, we received the following draft manual for our
T2801 Trailer. To be very fair, take into consideration that this was a draft.
I have finally gotten around to making some revisions and recommendations,
based on our experience as full-time Bigfoot RVers, on the road between
campgrounds usually once or twice every week.
My changes and suggestions are written in blue. Since I served as a newspaper
editor for 10 years and spent much of the remaining 35 years of my worklife
dealing with words, I have been compelled by habit to correct spelling, grammar
and punctuation (without taking credit for the editing). I also changed Canadian
spellings to customary U.S.
As a disclaimer, I am not an expert. My suggestions are: 1) to be considered or
ignored as you wish; 2) I have gained knowledge from a few conversations with
Bigfoot, parts suppliers, and dozens or books and articles we have read; and 3)
being active RV campers, we have gained a wealth of experience, which, after
three years on the road, would already fill more than a book.
As you probably know, Bigfoot closed its doors in November 2008. I have heard
conjecture about what happened to the company and the spare parts and
machinery including moulds, but I don't have factual information.
I welcome your additional input, corrections, suggestions and comments about
any and all that follows. Please e-mail me at zandersontheroad@gmail.com.
Thanks,
Barry Zander
August 2009
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Summary of Contents for Bigfoot T2801
- Page 1 In April 2008, after many requests, we received the following draft manual for our T2801 Trailer. To be very fair, take into consideration that this was a draft. I have finally gotten around to making some revisions and recommendations, based on our experience as full-time Bigfoot RVers, on the road between campgrounds usually once or twice every week.
- Page 2 BIGFOOT TRAILER MANUAL DRAFT #8 APRIL 3, 2008...
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Page 3: Table Of Contents
TABLE OF CONTENTS (These page numbers have been altered as needed, because of added changes and suggestions) INTRODUCTION ……………………………..………………………………….……..… OWNERS MANUAL ………………………………………………………………………. ALTERING OR MODIFYING YOUR TRAVEL TRAILER …………………………... OWNER’S RESPONSIBILITIES …………………………………………….…….…..DEALER’S RESPONSIBILITIES NEW RECREATIONAL VEHICLE WARRANTY ……………………………….…..… 6 WHAT IS NOT COVERED BY THE WARRANTY ……………………………….….. - Page 4 Preventing Tire Damage Tire Safety Checklist Steps for Determining Correct Load Limit Glossary of Tire Terminology ELECTRICAL SYSTEM ....................... 32 Bigfoot 12V House Electrical System ……………………………………………………. 110V/120V Electrical System ……………………………………………………………. 45 Amp Service …………………………………………………………………………… Power Converter …………………………………………………………………………... Fuses & Circuit Breakers ………………………………………………………………….
- Page 5 LP Gas (LPG) Leak Detector ……………………………………………………………… 45 PLUMBING …………………………………………………………………………………. 46 Fresh Water System ……………………………………………………………………….. 46 External Water Hook-up (City or Park Connection) …………………..………………….. Self-Contained Water System …………………………………………………………….. Fresh Water Fill Instructions ……………………………………………………………… Sanitizing The Fresh Water System ………………………………………………………. Electric 12-Volt DC Water Pump …………………………………………………………. 48 Winterizing and Draining the Water System ………………………………………………...
- Page 6 Winter Protection While Travel Trailer Is In Use ………………………………………… FORMS/CHECKLISTS ……………………………………………………………………. PRODUCT INDENTIFCATION INFORMATION ……………………………………… 66 Page 4 of 69...
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Page 7: Introduction
Your RV has been equipped with modern, state-of-the-art systems, appliances and operational equipment. Like every automobile or fine piece of equipment, your Bigfoot RV will require a certain amount of care and regular maintenance to preserve its appearance and maximum performance. -
Page 8: Owners Manual
Owner’s Information Package. IMPORTANT NOTICE DUE TO ONGOING DESIGN DEVELOPMENT AT BIGFOOT INDUSTRIES, IT IS POSSIBLE THAT RECENT PRODUCT CHANGES MAY NOT BE INCLUDED IN THIS OWNER’S MANUAL. THIS MANUAL IS INTENDED AS A GUIDE ONLY AND IN NO WAY EXTENDS THE RESPONSIBILITY OF BIGFOOT INDUSTRIES, BEYOND THE WARRANTY PRINTED IN THIS MANUAL. -
Page 9: Dealer's Responsibilities
Gelcoat fading, paints, etc. Normal maintenance and service items, such as light bulbs, fuses, lubricants, sealants, etc. Transportation to and from Dealer or Bigfoot Industries Service Center location, loss of time, inconvenience, commercial loss, loss of use, towing charges, bus fares, vehicle rental, incidental charges such as telephone calls or hotel bills, or other incidental or consequential damages. -
Page 10: General Safety
Bigfoot Industries continually strives to produce quality recreational vehicles that meet and exceed the requirements of Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standards. As the owner of this Bigfoot Recreational vehicle, if you believe you have discovered a safety concern, please notify Bigfoot Industries at:... -
Page 11: Lp Gas Heating System And Lp Gas Appliance Safety Regulations
LP GAS HEATING SYSTEM AND LP GAS APPLIANCE SAFETY REGULATIONS SAFETY REGULATIONS REGARDING LP GAS SYSTEMS AND LP GAS APPLIANCES The Manufacturer of this recreational vehicle is required to furnish the following consumer information as provided by the National Fire Protection Association and the American National Standards Institute. - Page 12 Overfilling the LP Gas containers can result in uncontrolled gas flow, which can cause fire or explosion. A properly filled container will contain approximately 80% of its volume as LP Gas. The following label has been placed in the recreational vehicle near the range. IF YOU SMELL GAS: 1.
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Page 13: Fire Safety
Fire Safety The fire extinguisher is mounted near the main door to the travel trailer in a quick release bracket. The extinguisher should be visually inspected (extinguisher gauge) and tested at least monthly. Read the label on the fire extinguisher carefully for detailed instructions regarding operating and testing procedures. -
Page 14: Fuel & Fuel System Safety
CO at any given time. Due to the safety hazards of CO, each Bigfoot Travel trailer is equipped with a CO detector. Carefully read the instructions included with your CO detector to ensure proper use and maintenance. -
Page 15: Preparation For Towing
If the pungent odour of LP gas is detected, immediately shut off the LP gas valve and check the LP gas label for further instructions. All units are equipped with an LP Gas detector. This detector should not be relied on solely; if you detect the smell of LP gas, shut off the gas valve immediately. -
Page 16: Travel Trailer Loading
Use a tow vehicle that is large enough for your trailer and has the needed power and heavy- duty running gear. The tow vehicle must be rated by its manufacturer both to tow the gross weight, and to carry the hitch weight, of the fully loaded trailer. Use a weight distributing hitch rated not less than the trailer gross vehicle weight rating (GVWR). -
Page 17: Determining And Distributing The Trailer Load
WARNING! Do not exceed the specified tongue weight as you could do damage to the trailer frame. Also, overloading could result in poor handling and braking Determining & Distributing the Trailer Load The gross vehicle weight rating (GVWR) for your trailer is found on the label attached near the entry door of the travel trailer. -
Page 18: Balance
Tow Vehicle—do not exceed the GVWR of the tow vehicle. This includes the curb weight of the vehicle, payload, and hitch weight. Hitch weight is the percentage of the trailer weight that is placed on the trailer coupler of the tow vehicle. (Refer to the next section on Trailer Vehicle Hitch Weight.) Tow vehicles also have GAWR limits. -
Page 19: Safety Chains
Suggestion: We put a plastic hose wrap, available at hardware stores, over the chains, so they don’t mess up the front of our Bigfoot when we separate and put the chains over the tongue (see Page 20). Brakes As with any vehicle, the proper operation of the tow vehicle’s braking system is essential for vehicle control. -
Page 20: Brake System Components
The brakes have been factory calibrated for smooth positive response. During the break-in period, you may experience squeaking brakes. This is normal and will cease after a few miles of break-in wear. These brakes provide both automatic and manual control for trailer brakes, and require that the tow vehicle be equipped with additional electrical wiring and a control box in the tow vehicle that can activate the brake system either automatically or by the driver of the tow vehicle. - Page 21 Even though hitch component failure is rare, the breakaway switch and the safety chains must be in good working order. The picture below shows the control box, breakaway switch, and electrical wiring for a typical emergency braking system. Emergency Break-Away Switch Emergency Break- Away Cable NOTE: I have twice experienced an awful experience of pulling the trailer when the wheels...
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Page 22: Tongue
WARNING! Do not leave the pull pin out of the breakaway switch for more than a few seconds (30 to 60 seconds) or the battery will be drained. Do not use the breakaway switch for a parking brake. Grounding A poor ground circuit from the brakes to the tow vehicle battery can be as detrimental to efficient braking as poor primary circuit from the battery to the brakes. -
Page 23: Spring Bars
Used for the 18-gallon waste-water tote, it works well. I did run it by the service manager at the dealership where we bought the Bigfoot, who thought it was not only acceptable, but a good idea. - Page 24 Before attempting to hitch up your trailer, read the instructions provided by the hitch manufacturer. Your trailer coupler is built for a 2-5/16” hitch ball. Your hitch ball must be this size. The following instructions are usable in most cases. If the instructions provided with your hitch deviate from these instructions, follow the manufacturer’s instructions.
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Page 25: Tires
Some travel trailers accumulate relatively few miles and, therefore, the tire age from the date of manufacture, not mileage, may become the main tire life-determining factor. Bigfoot Industries, therefore, recommends periodic tire inspection by a reputable tire Dealer. -
Page 26: Finding Your Vehicle's Recommended Tire Pressure And Load Limits
Tire Replacement Replacement tires must be the same size and type per axle, and have at least the same weight carrying capacity as the original equipment. Tires supplied by various Manufacturers of same size and rating may not have the same weight carrying capacity and maximum cold inflation pressures. -
Page 27: Understanding Tire Pressures And Load Limits
Both placards and certification labels are permanently attached to the outside of the trailer, front left corner. In response to my question, Bigfoot sent me the following message about lug nuts: ”We torque to 82lbs on the Aluminum Wheels and 90lbs on the steel (white spoked)”... -
Page 28: Tire Size
• Step 3: If the tire pressure is too high in any of the tires, slowly release air by gently pressing on the tire valve stem with the edge of your tire gauge until you get to the correct pressure. •... -
Page 29: Tire Fundamentals
Tire Fundamentals Federal law requires tire manufacturers to place standardized information on the sidewall of all tires. This information identifies and describes the fundamental characteristics of the tire and also provides a tire identification number for safety standard certification and in case of a recall. NOTE: Buy only tires recommended for travel trailers LT for light trucks or trailers or ST for trailer use only. -
Page 30: Letter Rating Speed
Speed Rating - The speed rating denotes the speed at which a tire is designed to be driven for extended periods of time. The ratings range from 99 miles per hour (mph) to 186 mph. These ratings are listed below. Note: You may not find this information on all tires because it is not required by law. -
Page 31: Preventing Tire Damage
Load Range - This information identifies the tire's load-carrying capabilities and its inflation limits. Weighing methods needed to capture the various weights related to the RV. This would include weights for the following: axles, wheels, hitch or pin (in the case of a trailer) and total weight. TIRE SAFETY TIPS Preventing Tire Damage •... - Page 32 Chunking - The breaking away of pieces of the tread or sidewall. Cold inflation pressure - The pressure in the tire before you drive. Cord - The strands forming the plies in the tire. Cord separation - The parting of cords from adjacent rubber compounds. Cracking - Any parting within the tread, sidewall, or inner liner of the tire extending to cord material.
- Page 33 Overall width - The linear distance between the exteriors of the sidewalls of an inflated tire, including elevations due to labelling, decorations, or protective bands or ribs. Pin Weight - The vertical trailer load supported by the king pin of a fifth wheel hitch. Ply - A layer of rubber-coated parallel cords.
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Page 34: Electrical System
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM Your travel trailer is equipped with 2 electrical systems. The Bigfoot 12V house system and the 110V/120V Electrical System. They operate together to give you electrical power for many different situations. Bigfoot 12V House Electrical System This system generally includes: All 12V interior lighting fixtures and outlets. -
Page 35: 45 Amp Service
Heaters: When we are on shore power, we use a small ceramic heater to warm up the trailer, but we use it only when we’re awake. (Why use our propane when we can use the park’s electricity that we are paying for?) Best advice is that when using a heater, always have ventilation, like an open window to avoid asphyxiation. - Page 36 Page 34 of 69...
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Page 37: Power Converter
CAUTION! NEVER REPLACE CIRCUIT BREAKERS OR FUSES OF HIGHER CURRENT RATING THAN THOSE ORIGINALLY INSTALLED. THIS COULD OVERHEAT THE WIRING AND START A FIRE. A typical component in your recreational vehicle such as a TV will draw only about 1 amp. Other items such as microwaves will draw 10-15 amps when used. -
Page 38: Ground Fault Interrupter (Gfi)
The fuses and relays are located in the following areas: 25B17.5CB left dinette seat 25B17.5FB front left exterior storage 25B17.5G left dinette seat 25B21FB rear pantry 25B21RB left dinette seat 25B25RQ Pantry 25B25FBS Front pass through right side(removable panel) 30T2401 lower galley end 30T2801 lower galley end... -
Page 39: Battery Charging
Do not use grease on the bare metal inside the cable terminals to prevent corrosion. Grease is an insulator. Electricity will not flow through it. A plastic battery terminal spray will protect the terminals after you have cleaned and reinstalled them. Check the battery, including the water level, at least once a week. -
Page 40: Travel Trailer Features
TRAVEL TRAILER FEATURES Dinette Conversion (with built in table): To convert the dinette into a bed: 1) Remove cushions. 2) Lift table, reach underneath and fold or remove the table legs and store. Lower table top to the dinette frame to complete the bed base. NOTE: We were given a short table leg to help support the table top in the bed position. -
Page 41: Overhead Vents
Everyone in the RV park has that same key, so, even though all RVers are honest, it’s still a risk. Bigfoot was smart enough to put two 751s on some doors (which makes as much sense as having different keys for the two entrance doors). My suggestion: replace bay door locks with barrel locks (advertised in RV magazines), and replace the second lock with a turn-latch that keeps the door closed without having to take out a key. -
Page 42: Interior Storage
Single CD or CD/DVD player. Stereos operate on 12V DC power. Please consult the specific owner’s manual for operating instructions. NOTE: The frame of the Bigfoot is aluminum, which should serve as an antenna – key word here is “should.”... -
Page 43: Awnings
NOTE: If you use a portable generator, it is strongly suggested that you use the largest chain that will fit through the handle and lock it to the Bigfoot or a substantial tree with the most formidable padlock you can find. -
Page 44: Levelling Jacks
It is recommended by Bigfoot that you have the stabilizers in place before extending or retracting the slide-out, which means levelling the trailer first. -
Page 45: Filling Lp Tanks
Filling LP Tanks When filling a new tank for the first time or a tank that has been sitting empty for a period of time, it is recommended that the tank be purged in order to remove any moisture or condensation from the tank. -
Page 46: Manual Regulator
Do not fill LP gas containers to more than 80% of capacity. This is required to allow for the safe expansion of the vaporized liquid. Failure to comply could result in a fire or serious injury The above are required by LAW in most jurisdictions. Manual Regulator If your trailer is equipped with a manual regulator, it is factory adjusted to give proper line pressure for operating appliances. -
Page 47: Lp Gas (Lpg) Leak Detector
20 LB. Tank * % Full + 20° ** 0° - 5° - 10° - 15° 36,000 18,000 12,750 8,500 4,250 32,400 16,200 12,150 8,100 4,050 28,800 14,400 11,400 7,600 3,800 25,200 12,600 10,450 7,300 3,150 21,600 10,800 8,100 5,400 2,700 16,200 8,100... -
Page 48: Plumbing
The water system has been tested for leaks at the factory at 100 PSI. NOTE: Bigfoot suggested to us that a 60-pound regulator be used on the system (see below for the manual’s recommendation). RV stores sell water filters, which take impurities out of the incoming water and limit calcium build-up. -
Page 49: Sanitizing The Fresh Water System
Do not leave the travel trailer unattended while filling. Do not wedge the water hose into the fill spout. “Full condition” indicates water is back flushing at the water hose and out the air vent adjacent to the fill spout. Discontinue filling immediately on observation of the “full”... -
Page 50: Electric 12-Volt Dc Water Pump
NOTE: When the pump noise and vibration gets unusually loud, I adjust it by turning a screw on the nose of the pump that faces outward. This was suggested to me by the manufacturer of the trailer we had prior to our Bigfoot. Winterizing and Draining the Water System Protecting the plumbing system in the travel trailer is the most important aspect of long-term winter storage. - Page 51 SUMMER POSITION Hot Water Bypass Open Flow direction Cold Water Bypass Open Note, the valves across the lines are closed, and the WINTER POSITION valves with the lines are open Hot Water Bypass Closed Flow Direction Cold Water Bypass Closed If your refrigerator is equipped with an ice maker, see your refrigerator appliance owner’s manual for preparing the ice maker for winter storage.
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Page 52: Water Heater Bypass System
Turn the water pump switch to the ON position. Starting at the kitchen faucet, turn on the cold-water faucet until the potable antifreeze runs from the faucet, turn off faucet. Turn on hot water faucet until the potable antifreeze runs from the faucet, turn off faucet. Repeat these steps with the Bathroom faucets and with exterior shower (if equipped) until the potable antifreeze runs through the faucets, turn off faucets. -
Page 53: Dumping The Holding Tanks
Dumping The Holding Tanks 1) First, make sure that dump valve is closed. 2) Remove the sewer drain cap, attach the sewer adapter and drain hose to the dump valve drain outlet. Place the other end of the drain hose into the sewer or dump station inlet. Push the hose far enough into the opening to firmly secure the hose. -
Page 54: Toilet
4) Do not put facial tissue, ethylene glycol-based or other automotive anti-freeze, sanitary napkins, or household toilet cleaners in the holding tanks. 5) Always store your unit with a good quality non-formaldehyde sanitizing solution. Toilet The RV toilet operates in a similar manner to a household type toilet except it is designed to flush using a minimum amount of water. -
Page 55: Microwave Oven
furnace ignition is powered by your 12-volt battery system. If the system battery is low, the furnace blower will come on; however the furnace will not ignite. Make sure you have sufficient battery power before operating the furnace. To stop the furnace, turn “OFF” the comfort control centre. -
Page 56: Refrigerator
Lighting the Oven Pilot – Electric Spark Lighting Push in oven control knob and rotate counter-clockwise to PILOT ON-PUSH-HOLD. Push the knob in and hold it in while observing the oven pilot located near the back of the oven, under the broiler shelf and to the right of the oven burner Continue to hold the oven control knob in for 5 seconds after pilot is lit. -
Page 57: Roof Mounted Air Conditioner
The refrigerator is equipped with a humidity switch. Set it to OFF if you are not going to be using the travel trailer for 10 days or longer. This will help reduce battery drainage. Ensure door is left in open position when not in use. NOTE: Experts have explained the humidity feature is a major battery drain. -
Page 58: Effects Of Long Term Occupancy
IMPORTANT: Before turning on the water heater confirm that the water heater is filled with water. Be sure that the water heater bypass valves are not in the bypass position. Note: Shut heater off before draining water. EACH LP GAS APPLIANCE HAS LIGHTING PROCEDURES ON A PLATE THAT IS PERMANENTLY ATTACHED TO THE APPLIANCE. -
Page 59: Ventilation & Moisture
NOTE: Of course your dealer told you that when you paid a premium price for your trailer … right?! On the other hand, the aluminum frame and excellent insulation were the most important factors in our choosing Bigfoot. As for interior deterioration, what full-time residence doesn’t have that? Ventilation &... -
Page 60: Dripping Ceiling Vents
From owners Dave & Diane Hill -- just recently returned from a 22,000k trip across Canada in our T2801. We went through some tremendous downpours and often got road water under the slide. While in Newfoundland, I had another look at what might be the problem. -
Page 61: Closing The Slide Out Room
inch perhaps more above the tires and using the same screw holes, screwed the seal back. The seal now presses along the total area of the under-body of the slide-out and I am hoping that this procedure corrects the water problem. If not, then I plan to install a secondary seal or cover above the tires. On another note, while I was crawling under the trailer. -
Page 62: Care And Maintenance
Short Detect on Front Motor Not Current on Rear Motor No Current on Front Motor No Encoder Signal detected on Rear Actuator No Encoder Signal detected on Front Actuator Rear Actuator did not resync with Front Actuator within 5 seconds Front Actuator did not resync with Rear Actuator within 5 seconds CARE AND MAINTENANCE NTERIOR... -
Page 63: Solid Surface Countertops
wax or chewing gum, harden the spot with ice and then gently scrape with a plastic scraper, such as a credit card. Be careful not to scratch the floor. Wipe clean with a damp cloth. Solid Surface Countertops Wipe spills with a damp cloth and one of the recommended cleaners: Household dishwashing detergents, Soft scrub or other non-abrasive cleaners, Mild bleach solutions, Ammonia based window cleaners Drains... -
Page 64: Doors And Windows
weatherproof integrity of your travel trailer. Leak damage caused by neglect will affect warranty coverage. Doors & Windows Inspect the sealants around windows and doors at least every six months. If any of the following defects are evident the affected areas must be resealed: Sealant cracked or peeling, Voids in sealant, Shrunken or separated sealant. - Page 65 FORMS/CHECKLISTS TRAILER TOWING PRE-TRIP SAFETY INSPECTION CHECKLIST PRE-TRAVEL CHECKLIST PRODUCT IDENTIFICATION INFORMATION APPLIANCE & EQUIPMENT IDENTIFICATION INFORMATION Trailer Towing Pre-Trip Safety Inspection Checklist – Page 1 Date: ______________________ Reviewer: _______________________________________ Review the following checklist and indicate UNSAT NOTES - LEGEND whether each item is satisfactory (SAT) or unsatisfactory (UNSAT) while including applicable notes.
- Page 66 UNSAT NOTES – LEGEND 3. The power and brake control connections between the trailer and tow vehicle are compatible, provide enough slack for turning and are in good working order. 4. The landing gear (trailer jack) is functional. 5. The hitch ball and coupler are the same size. When attached, the ball is firmly seated in the coupler, and the latching mechanism is locked.
- Page 67 Inspection Notes /Issues Found / Remedial Action Taken: PRE-TRAVEL CHECK LIST Exterior Secure all objects Awnings locked Be sure to shut off LPG tank valves Check brakes for operation Check battery and battery condition Check LPG tank level and refill if necessary Check running lights and turn signals Disconnect water, electrical and drain lines Drain waste-holding tanks...
- Page 68 Interior Secure seats Check batteries in smoke detector Check that toilet is operational Close all windows, drawers and doors Close range cover (optional equipment) Close roof vents Ensure refrigerator is tightly closed Secure all loose items Turn off furnace Turn off oven pilot (optional equipment) Turn off water heater Turn off water pump Install slide locks...
- Page 69 APPLIANCE & EQUIPMENT IDENTIFICATION INFORMATION EQUIPMENT MANUFACTURER MODEL SERIAL NUMBER Range/Oven Refrigerator Furnace Water Heater Water Pump Power Converter Optional Equipment: Air Box Air Conditioner (1) Air Conditioner (2) Awning Exterior Stereo Home Theatre/DVD Microwave/Convection Awning Stereo Inside TV Inside Two Way Radio Sub Woofer Other:...
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