MDC XH 2021 Owner's Manual

MDC XH 2021 Owner's Manual

Expedition hauler
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XH
EXPEDITION HAULER
OWNER'S MANUAL
EDITION: 2021 - Version 1
www.mdcusa.com
* January 2020 Model shown.
Phone: 833 632 8721
Copyright © MDC Caravans and Campers INC 2021 All Rights Reserved
1

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Summary of Contents for MDC XH 2021

  • Page 1 EXPEDITION HAULER OWNER’S MANUAL EDITION: 2021 - Version 1 www.mdcusa.com * January 2020 Model shown. Phone: 833 632 8721 Copyright © MDC Caravans and Campers INC 2021 All Rights Reserved...
  • Page 2 Your use of this Owner’s Manual does not constitute any right or license for you to use MDC’s or any other party’s service marks or trademarks, without the prior written permission of MDC or the applicable party.
  • Page 3 TIRE SIZE: DEALER PH: DISCLAIMER: By receiving this handbook, you confirm there you have read and agree to all the terms and conditions and understood the use and maintenance care of MDC Campers and Caravans Inc. www.mdcusa.com Ph: 833 632 8721...
  • Page 4: Table Of Contents

    Dangerous Gases ............21 Tow Vehicle and Trailer Compatibility ......7 Trailer Specifications ............22 Terminology & Abbreviations ...........8 MDC Contact Details and Stores ......22 Tire Safety Information ............10 Using Your Trailer .............. 23 Steps for Determining Correct Load Limit - ......
  • Page 5 Brakes ..................39 Brake Adjustment ............... 39 Brake Cleaning and Inspection ........39 Magnets .................. 40 Shoes and Linings ..............40 Bearings and Seals ............41 Suspension ................. 41 Handbrake ................. 41 Hitch ..................43 Ball Bearing Slides ............43 Plumbing ..................
  • Page 6: General Safety Information

    MDC trailers are manufactured using many third party supplied products which have separate manuals. These manual must be read in conjunction with this document and all instructions followed. If your trailer does not have additional...
  • Page 7: Reporting Safety Defects

    If you believe that your vehicle has a defect that could cause a crash or could cause injury or death, you should immediately inform the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) in addition to notifying MDC Caravans and Campers INC.
  • Page 8: Terminology & Abbreviations

    Terminology & Abbreviations Dry Weight: The total weight of the trailer (load on tires plus coupling load) with all options and fittings as supplied by the manufacturer, with empty water tanks, excluding fluids not essential for operation on public roads, and without luggage or personal effects.
  • Page 9 Toe can be measured in linear units, at the front or rear of the tire, or as an angular deflection. In the case of MDC products, the “toe in”...
  • Page 10: Tire Safety Information

    Tire Safety Information This section of the User Manual contains tire safety information as required by 49 CFR 575.6. “Steps for Determining Correct Load Limit – Trailer” “Steps for Determining Correct Load Limit – Tow Vehicle” Section 2.3 has information from the NHTSA brochure titled “Tire Safety – Everything Rides On It” The following brochure information is contained: •...
  • Page 11: Tow Vehicle

    Steps for Determining Load Limit - TOW VEHICLE Locate the statement, “The combined weight of occupants and cargo should never exceed XXX lbs., ” on your vehicle’s placard. Determine the combined weight of the driver and passengers who will be riding in your vehicle. Subtract the combined weight of the driver and passengers from XXX kilograms or XXX pounds.
  • Page 12: Understanding Tire Pressure And Load Limits

    Understanding Tire Pressure and Load Limits Tire inflation pressure is the level of air in the tire that provides it with load-carrying capacity and affects the overall performance of the vehicle. The tire inflation pressure is a number that indicates the amount of air pressure–...
  • Page 13: Tire Tread

    Tire Tread The tire tread provides the gripping action and traction that prevent your vehicle from slipping or sliding, especially when the road is wet or icy. In general, tires are not safe and should be replaced when the tread is worn down to 1/16 of an inch.
  • Page 14: Treadwear Number Utqgs Information

    Next number This two-digit number, known as the aspect ratio, gives the tire’s ratio of height to width. Numbers of 70 or lower indicate a short sidewall for improved steering response and better overall handling on dry pavement. The “R” stands for radial. Radial ply construction of tires has been the industry standard for the past 20 years. Next number This two-digit number is the wheel or rim diameter in inches.
  • Page 15: Additional Information On Light Truck Tires

    Additional Information on Light Truck Tires Please refer to the following diagram. Tires for light trucks have other markings besides those found on the sidewalls of passenger tires. The “LT” indicates the tire is for light trucks or trailers. An “ST” is an indication the tire is for trailer use only. Max.
  • Page 16: Tire Pressure Table

    Tire Pressure Table Actual Weight Pressure PSI Pressure KPA Dual Axle Dual Axle 5730lb/2600kg 30psi 208Kpa 5950lb/2700kg 31psi 216Kpa 6170lb/2800kg 33psi 224Kpa 6390lb/2900kg 34psi 232Kpa 6600lb/3000kg 35psi 240Kpa 6830lb/3100kg 36psi 248Kpa 7050lb/3200kg 37psi 256Kpa 7275lb/3300kg 38psi 264Kpa 7500lb/3400kg 39psi 272Kpa 7716lb/3500kg 41psi 280Kpa...
  • Page 17: Gas Certification

    Gas Certification Your trailer has been supplied gas tested and certified. Any additions or alterations to the gas system must be performed by an authorized person and will require re-certification and testing. Also note any alterations may affect your warranty on both the system and appliances. General Safety •...
  • Page 18: Propane Cylinder Safety

    Propane Cylinder Safety • Propane Gas cylinders have a 12-year lifespan between inspection and re-certification. Always use gas cylinders that are within their compliance date. • For drawbar mounted cylinders (if applicable), orient the cylinder relief valves of both cylinders discharge away from both the trailer and towing vehicle as shown.
  • Page 19: Electrical Safety

    Electrical Safety WARNING Failure To Follow These Instructions May Result In Death Or Serious Injury! • When working with electrical equipment or lead acid batteries, have someone nearby in case of an emergency. • Study and follow all the manufacturer’s specific precautions when using and servicing the battery and connected appliances.
  • Page 20: General Safety

    General Safety Brakes WARNING Your trailer brakes must be maintained and adjusted to operate correctly at all times. Failure to maintain and adjust brakes as outlined in the maintenance schedule may result in a failure causing death or serious injury. Brake Controller Your trailer is fitted with drum type electric brakes.
  • Page 21: Jacking Your Trailer

    Jacking Your Trailer Your trailer is fitted with purpose built jacking points and from January 2021 supplied with a suitable jack. An appropriately rated bottle jack is an acceptable alternative, however when using the jacking point beneath the trailing arm ensure the jack is of a retracted height that will fit under the jacking point when the tire is deflated. A suitably rated “High Lift”...
  • Page 22: Trailer Specifications

    77” x 65” x 3” POLES Galvanized steel pole WINDOWS Mosquito proof netting *all weights do not include gas bottles, jerry cans, annex walls & roof. MDC Contact Details and Stores CALIFORNIA Los Angeles 8420 Kass Dr. Buena Park 90621 833-632-8721 www.mdcusa.com...
  • Page 23: Using Your Trailer

    Using Your Trailer NOTICE Instructions below are for your safety and the avoidance of accidental damage to the trailer through misuse. Follow all directions given in this manual and the manuals for third party products installed. The manufacturer has produced product specific video content for tutorial purposes, to assist in the correct setup and use.
  • Page 24: Connecting To The Tow Vehicle

    Connecting to the Tow Vehicle WARNING WARNING – Your coupler MUST be rated for the Gross Vehicle Weight and be in serviceable condition. • The hitch MUST be correctly load rated. • Hitch and pin MUST be compatible. • All bolts and fittings must be correctly tightened and serviceable condition.
  • Page 25: Do35

    Trailers Fitted with DO35 Connecting the Hitch Here is a short guide on how to safely use your coupling to couple and uncouple the trailer from the towing vehicle. Make sure the handbrake is applied prior to coupling and uncoupling. www.mdcusa.com Ph: 833 632 8721...
  • Page 26 Make sure the dust cap is securely connected to the bump cover. This is done by locating the rear lip on the dust cap onto the groove of the bump cover and then pushing it in a downward motion until the dust cover is secure (there should be a slight click when it has been assembled correctly) Test if the dust cover is connected to the bump cover by applying a slight upward force to the dust cover, it shouldn’t separate.
  • Page 27 Coupling STEP 1 Push down the button (1) and push the locking mechanism back (2). When the locking mechanism (2) is all the way back, release the button (1) locking the plate in place STEP 2 Offer up the tow pin to the coupling making sure the tow pin cover is removed and there is no visible debris on it. Locking plate should be in unlocked position as shown.
  • Page 28 STEP 3 Make sure the tow pin is seated inside the universal and the tow pin top is sticking out of the locking mechanism (see below). Press the button (1) to release the locking mechanism there will be an audible locking noise at which point the mechanism will return to the initial position as shown in step 1.
  • Page 29 Uncoupling STEP 1 Push down the button 1 and push the locking mechanism back 2. When the locking mechanism is all the way back release the button while holding the mechanism to ensure it does not spring back to the locked position. STEP 2 Lift the coupling up off the tow pin.
  • Page 30: Connecting Wiring

    Connecting Wiring When connecting ensure the electric cables to your tow vehicle cannot drag on the road or foul the coupling. If necessary, use zip ties or like keep them neat and safe from damage. Connecting the Safety Chains Chains should be crossed over and connected with suitable rated shackles. Ensure they are connected in a way to prevent them dragging on the road but not too tight as to restrict the articulation of the vehicle and trailer combination.
  • Page 31: Loading Your Trailer

    Loading Your Trailer Loading your trailer can have an effect on the overall handling of the trailer and tow vehicle combination. Loading affects ball mass and balance which must be taken into consideration. • DO NOT exceed the Gross Vehicle Weight Rating (GVWR) •...
  • Page 32: Operating Trailer Features

    Operating Trailer Features This sections covers details on using the common features on your trailer correctly. Stabilizer Legs The stabilizer legs are fitted to make the trailer stable when occupied. Important things to not are: • Always try to set the stabilizers up in a vertical position, 90 degrees to the chassis as shown in figure below.
  • Page 33: Pole Layout

    Pole Layout www.mdcusa.com Ph: 833 632 8721...
  • Page 34: 12 Volt Electrical System

    12 Volt Electrical System Control Panel Control Panel Use Main Rotary Switch: This is used to switch on or isolate the entire 12 volt system. Circuit Breakers: The round rubber capped Circuit breakers are resettable. To reset the circuit push in the rubber cap. Each circuit breaker is marked with the applicable circuit.
  • Page 35: Towing Your Trailer

    Towing Your Trailer Driving dynamics change considerably when towing a trailer. Many facets of driving need to be modified when towing for your safety and that of other road users. Important points you must know, understand, and adhere to are: •...
  • Page 36: Correct Wiring Of Tow Vehicle

    Correct Wiring of Tow Vehicle Vehicle with or without smart alternator: The Anderson plug can be connected to the tow vehicle start battery on the vehicle and should include the following to protect the start battery. 50 amp relay to stop power supply when vehicle is not running. 50 amp fuse or circuit breaker at the battery www.mdcusa.com Ph: 833 632 8721...
  • Page 37: Choosing A Camp Site

    Choosing a Camp Site When choosing a campsite always consider the following: • Choose a flat even area when possible. • Never camp under trees with a risk of branches falling. • Camping in shade will reduce the performance of solar power charging. •...
  • Page 38: Care And Maintenance Of The Trailer

    Care and Maintenance of the Trailer Protection of Finishes Paint The paint coatings on your trailer are no different to that of your car in that they need regular care and maintenance. Rubber seals and applied sealants on trailers can shed polymers and pigments that can stain paint finishes if your trailer isn’t washed regularly.
  • Page 39: Trailer Body Maintenance

    Trailer Body Maintenance Locks and Latches Locks need regular maintenance to ensure they operate correctly and stay free from corrosion. Diligent use of WD40 or Inox will help in this regard. Both locks and latches need to be checked for adjustment to ensure correct seal compression.
  • Page 40: Magnets

    It is important to replace both shoes on each brake and both brakes of the same axle. This is necessary to retain the “balance” of your brakes. Be sure to replace your shoes only with genuine MDC parts available from our outlets.
  • Page 41: Bearings And Seals

    Bearings and Seals The Timken bearings in your trailer are protected with a rubber seal on the rear of the drum and a friction fit bearing cap on the front. Under normal use without encountering water crossings these should be services every 3000 miles. Suspension Suspension maintenance should be done as per the schedule contained in this booklet.
  • Page 42: Hitch

    Adjuster Early Models To adjust the handbrake cable tension release locknuts A, B and C in the diagram Handbrake Adjuster 1 below. To tighten the handbrake cable, turn the adjuster wheel D in a clockwise direction. Once adjusted re-tighten lock nuts and test.
  • Page 43: Ball Bearing Slides

    Waste Holding Tank: The recommended product for the waste holding tank on Thetford toilet systems is Aqua Kem Blue or Aqua Kem Green for better environmental performance. Flush Water Tank: Only suitable for MDC models that have a toilet flush tank. Thetford recommend “Aqua Rinse”...
  • Page 44: Schematics & Part Numbers

    Schematics & Part Numbers Hub Assembly www.mdcusa.com Ph: 833 632 8721...
  • Page 45: Trailing Arms And Bushes

    Trailing Arms and Bushes www.mdcusa.com Ph: 833 632 8721...
  • Page 46: Trouble Shooting

    Trouble Shooting Electrical www.mdcusa.com Ph: 833 632 8721...
  • Page 47: Water

    Water Problem Possible Cause Remedy Pump not working (no noise) No power from control panel Check circuit breaker Flat Battery Charge battery Faulty pressure switch Replace pump, Contact dealer for replacement Bad electrical connection Check connections with multimeter or test light Pump working but no water flow Airlock in water lines...
  • Page 48: Brakes

    Brakes Problem Possible Cause Remedy No Brakes Open Circuits Find and correct Severe under adjustments Adjust brakes Faulty controller Test and correct/replace Short circuits Find and correct Weak Brakes Great or oil on linings or magnets Clean or replace Corroded connection Clean or replace connectors Worn lining or magnets Replace...
  • Page 49: Service Record And Schedule

    Service Record and Schedule 300 miles FIRST SERVICE CHECKED Check hitch bolts to 90Nm/66ft lb Hitch Lubricate Handbrake Inspect and adjust handbrake. Inspect and adjust brakes. Check bearings are well greased, and crown Brakes & Bearings nut is correctly tightened Wheel nuts Inspect condition and torque to (125Nm/92ft lb ½”...
  • Page 50 Every 6 MONTHS / 3000 miles SERVICE CHECKED Check hitch bolts to 90Nm/66ft lb Hitch Lubricate Handbrake Check cable and adjust if necessary Hand winch Check brake function and webbing Torque bolts to 190Nm/140ft lb Grease bushes and check for play. Check retaining chain shackles tight.
  • Page 51 12 MONTHS / 6000 miles SERVICE CHECKED Chassis and Suspension Check hitch bolts to 90Nm/66ft lb Hitch Lubricate Jockey Wheel Inspect for condition and operation Check for correct operation. Breakaway Inspect lanyard and clip. Drawbar Inspect wiring grommets and general condition Torque bolts to 190Nm/140ft lb Grease bushes and check for play.
  • Page 52 110 volt Electrical GFI Unit Check operation of GFI Safety Switch via test button Mains Input Inspect 110v input plug and cover are free of damage Earthing Carry out resistance check Trailer Body Hatches & Doors Check and lubricate locks Check condition and correct latch/ lock adjustment for correct 30-50% Seals compression.
  • Page 53 18 MONTHS / 9000 miles SERVICE CHECKED Check hitch bolts to 90Nm/66ft lb Hitch Lubricate Handbrake Check cable and adjust if necessary Hand winch Check brake function and webbing Torque bolts to 190Nm/140ft lb Grease bushes and check for play. Check retaining chain shackles tight.
  • Page 54 24 MONTHS / 12,000 miles SERVICE CHECKED Chassis and Suspension Check hitch bolts to 90Nm/66ft lb Hitch Lubricate Jockey Wheel Inspect for condition and operation Check for correct operation. Breakaway Inspect lanyard and clip. Drawbar Inspect wiring grommets and general condition Torque bolts to 190Nm/140ft lb Grease bushes and check for play.
  • Page 55 110 volt Electrical GFI Unit Check operation of GFI Safety Switch via test button Mains Input Inspect 110v input plug and cover are free of damage Earthing Carry out resistance check Trailer Body Hatches & Doors Check and lubricate locks Check condition and correct latch/ lock adjustment for correct 30-50% Seals compression.
  • Page 56 30 MONTHS / 15,000 miles SERVICE CHECKED Check hitch bolts to 90Nm/66ft lb Hitch Lubricate Handbrake Check cable and adjust if necessary Hand winch Check brake function and webbing Torque bolts to 190Nm/140ft lb Grease bushes and check for play. Check retaining chain shackles tight.
  • Page 57 36 MONTHS / 18,000 miles SERVICE CHECKED Chassis and Suspension Check hitch bolts to 90Nm/66ft lb Hitch Lubricate Jockey Wheel Inspect for condition and operation Check for correct operation. Breakaway Inspect lanyard and clip. Drawbar Inspect wiring grommets and general condition Torque bolts to 190Nm/140ft lb Grease bushes and check for play.
  • Page 58 110 volt Electrical GFI Unit Check operation of GFI Safety Switch via test button Mains Input Inspect 110v input plug and cover are free of damage Earthing Carry out resistance check Trailer Body Hatches & Doors Check and lubricate locks Check condition and correct latch/ lock adjustment for correct 30-50% Seals compression.
  • Page 59 42 MONTHS / 21,000 miles SERVICE CHECKED Check hitch bolts to 90Nm/66ft lb Hitch Lubricate Handbrake Check cable and adjust if necessary Hand winch Check brake function and webbing Torque bolts to 190Nm/140ft lb Grease bushes and check for play. Check retaining chain shackles tight.
  • Page 60 48 MONTHS / 24,000 miles SERVICE CHECKED Chassis and Suspension Check hitch bolts to 90Nm/66ft lb Hitch Lubricate Jockey Wheel Inspect for condition and operation Check for correct operation. Breakaway Inspect lanyard and clip. Drawbar Inspect wiring grommets and general condition Torque bolts to 190Nm/140ft lb Grease bushes and check for play.
  • Page 61 110 volt Electrical GFI Unit Check operation of GFI Safety Switch via test button Mains Input Inspect 110v input plug and cover are free of damage Earthing Carry out resistance check Trailer Body Hatches & Doors Check and lubricate locks Check condition and correct latch/ lock adjustment for correct 30-50% Seals compression.
  • Page 62 54 MONTHS / 27,000 miles SERVICE CHECKED Check hitch bolts to 90Nm/66ft lb Hitch Lubricate Handbrake Check cable and adjust if necessary Hand winch Check brake function and webbing Torque bolts to 190Nm/140ft lb Grease bushes and check for play. Check retaining chain shackles tight.
  • Page 63 60 MONTHS / 30,000 miles SERVICE CHECKED Chassis and Suspension Check hitch bolts to 90Nm/66ft lb Hitch Lubricate Jockey Wheel Inspect for condition and operation Check for correct operation. Breakaway Inspect lanyard and clip. Drawbar Inspect wiring grommets and general condition Torque bolts to 190Nm/140ft lb Grease bushes and check for play.
  • Page 64 110 volt Electrical GFI Unit Check operation of GFI Safety Switch via test button Mains Input Inspect 110v input plug and cover are free of damage Earthing Carry out resistance check Trailer Body Hatches & Doors Check and lubricate locks Check condition and correct latch/ lock adjustment for correct 30-50% Seals compression.
  • Page 65 66 MONTHS / 33,000 miles SERVICE CHECKED Check hitch bolts to 90Nm/66ft lb Hitch Lubricate Handbrake Check cable and adjust if necessary Hand winch Check brake function and webbing Torque bolts to 190Nm/140ft lb Grease bushes and check for play. Check retaining chain shackles tight.
  • Page 66 72 MONTHS / 36,000 miles SERVICE CHECKED Chassis and Suspension Check hitch bolts to 90Nm/66ft lb Hitch Lubricate Jockey Wheel Inspect for condition and operation Check for correct operation. Breakaway Inspect lanyard and clip. Drawbar Inspect wiring grommets and general condition Torque bolts to 190Nm/140ft lb Grease bushes and check for play.
  • Page 67 110 volt Electrical GFI Unit Check operation of GFI Safety Switch via test button Mains Input Inspect 110v input plug and cover are free of damage Earthing Carry out resistance check Trailer Body Hatches & Doors Check and lubricate locks Check condition and correct latch/ lock adjustment for correct 30-50% Seals compression.
  • Page 68 78 MONTHS / 39,000 miles SERVICE CHECKED Check hitch bolts to 90Nm/66ft lb Hitch Lubricate Handbrake Check cable and adjust if necessary Hand winch Check brake function and webbing Torque bolts to 190Nm/140ft lb Grease bushes and check for play. Check retaining chain shackles tight.
  • Page 69 84 MONTHS / 42,000 miles SERVICE CHECKED Chassis and Suspension Check hitch bolts to 90Nm/66ft lb Hitch Lubricate Jockey Wheel Inspect for condition and operation Check for correct operation. Breakaway Inspect lanyard and clip. Drawbar Inspect wiring grommets and general condition Torque bolts to 190Nm/140ft lb Grease bushes and check for play.
  • Page 70 110 volt Electrical GFI Unit Check operation of GFI Safety Switch via test button Mains Input Inspect 110v input plug and cover are free of damage Earthing Carry out resistance check Trailer Body Hatches & Doors Check and lubricate locks Check condition and correct latch/ lock adjustment for correct 30-50% Seals compression.
  • Page 71: Travel Record

    Travel Record Your camper trailer service record booklet and logbook will help you keep track of miles travels and service records. Trip Name Date Miles Start Miles Finish Cumulative Miles www.mdcusa.com Ph: 833 632 8721...
  • Page 72 Trip Name Date Miles Start Miles Finish Cumulative Miles www.mdcusa.com Ph: 833 632 8721...
  • Page 73: Warranty Policy

    Notwithstanding the foregoing or anything herein to the contrary, you are advised that certain states may provide you with different or additional rights OR REMEDIES with respect to your purchase of any Product from MDC. As such, these Limited Warranties, and any disclaimer or limitation stated herein, are subject to ANY APPLICABLE STATE OR FEDERAL LAW AND SHALL APPLY ONLY TO the maximum extent permitted by applicable law.
  • Page 74 LIMITED WARRANTY FOR TENTS Tents are guaranteed by MDC to be in new condition and without flaws or defects at the time of purchase by you, general wear and tear excepted and excluding any other Limited Warranty exclusion as set forth herein.
  • Page 75 FACTORY SECONDS, EX-DEMONSTRATION AND DAMAGED GOODS From time to time, MDC may offer for sale items deemed to be “factory seconds”, “ex-demonstration”, “used” or “damaged”. Products sold as “factory seconds”, “ex-demonstration” or “damaged” items are sold on an “as is” basis without any warranty of any kind.
  • Page 76 To the maximum extent permitted by applicable law and unless specifically stated in writing at the time of auction, any Products sold at auction by or on behalf of MDC shall carry no warranty, whether express, implied or statutory, and shall be sold “as is.”...

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