Seat Belt Care; Driving Tips - Monaco DIPLOMAT 2004 Owner's Manual

DIPLOMAT 2004

Driving Tips

downhill.eps
2 • 44

Seat Belt Care:

Keep the belt clean and dry. To clean, use a mild soap and lukewarm
water. Never use bleach, dye or abrasive cleaners as they may weaken the
belt. Inspect the belts periodically. Check for cuts, frays or loose parts.
Replace any damaged parts. Do not disassemble or modify the system.
Replace the belt assembly if it has been in a severe impact, even if damage is
not obvious.
The motorhome is a complex vehicle and requires an increased level of
driving awareness because of its size and various components. Due to the
motorhome length the turning radius will be much wider than that of a
standard automobile. Always pay close attention to all perimeters of the
motorhome: front, sides, rear, roof and undercarriage. Insure the surrounding
area is clear of obstacles. Utilize the driving mirrors to observe traffic
conditions as well as the motorhome exterior: tires, bay doors, blind spots,
etc. Use a push-pull method of steering, with both hands parallel on the
steering wheel. The motorhome is also heavier than an automobile with a
higher center of gravity. These factors affect the reaction time of the
motorhome. Swerves and sharp turns, especially performed at high speeds,
could result in the loss of control of the motorhome. Keep the size of the
motorhome in mind and drive with extra caution to avoid situations which
might require quick momentum changes. Increase reaction time by paying
attention to traffic and road conditions 12-15 seconds ahead of the
motorhome's position.
The motorhome will travel safely and comfortably at highway speed
limits. However, it takes more time to reach highway speed. When passing
another vehicle, allow extra time and space to complete the pass due to the
added length of the motorhome. When descending a long hill, use the exhaust
or engine brake. The transmission and engine will help control downhill speed
and can extend the service life of the brake lining. The distance required to
stop the motorhome is greater than an automobile. The brakes are designed
for the (GVWR) Gross Vehicle Weight Rating. Practice stopping away from
traffic to get the "feel" of the distance required to stop the motorhome.
When backing up, have the co-pilot stand at the road side rear corner so
the co-pilot remains visible in the roadside mirror. The co-pilot can watch for
any obstacles and give hand signals during the backing up process.
When traveling, make sure bridges being crossed can support the weight
of the motorhome. Check the tonnage limit of the bridges before crossing
them. Signs should be posted at bridge entrances. Check the posted height of
all overpasses or situations where overhead clearance is limited. Keep in
mind, road surfaces may have been repaved or become packed with snow and
therefore the actual posted clearance height would not apply in such
conditions.
DRIVING & SAFETY