Table of Contents
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Congratulations! We welcome you to the exciting world of motor home travel and camping. You will
find it convenient and enjoyable to have all the comforts of home and still enjoy the great outdoors wher-
ever you choose to go.
Your motor home has been carefully designed, engineered and manufactured to provide dependability
as well as safety. Before sliding into the driver's seat, take a few minutes to become familiar with opera-
tions and features. This manual was prepared to aid you in the proper care and operation of the vehicle and
equipment. We urge you to read it completely. In addition, spend some time with the dealer when you take
delivery, you will want to learn all you can about your new motor home.
Your new motor home is covered by a factory warranty against defects in material and workmanship.
This warranty should be validated at once and returned to the factory by your dealer.
Read and understand all instructions and precautions in this manual before operating your new motor
home.
About Safety Messages Used in This Manual
Throughout this manual, certain items are labeled Note, Caution, Warning or Danger. These terms alert
you to precautions that may involved damage to your vehicle or a risk to your personal safety. Read and
follow them carefully.
This SAFETY ALERT SYMBOL is used to draw your attention to issues which could involved
potential personal injury. This symbol is used throughout this manual and/or on labels affixed
on or near various equipment in this motor home.
DANGER
DANGER indicates a directly hazard-
ous situation which, if not avoided,
will result in death or serious personal
injury.
.
WARNING
WARNING indicates a potentially
hazardous situation which, if not
avoided, could result in death or seri-
ous personal injury.
October 2002
TO THE OWNER
132000-05-003
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Table of Contents
Related Manuals for Winnebago Brave 32V
Summarization of Contents
SECTION 1: SAFETY PRECAUTIONS
About Safety Messages Used in This Manual
Defines safety terms like Danger, Warning, Caution, and the safety alert symbol.
GENERAL WARNINGS
General safety rules for occupants during vehicle operation.
DRIVING
Precautions for safe driving, including speed, braking, and weather.
FUEL & LP GAS
Safety guidelines for handling and using LP gas and fuel tanks.
LP GAS LEAKS
Procedures for suspected LP gas leaks, including dangers.
LP GAS ALARM
Explains the function and operation of the LP gas detector alarm.
Power Connection
Information on powering the LP gas alarm and battery considerations.
Other Combustible Fumes or Vapors
Discusses other substances the LP gas alarm can detect and related safety.
ELECTRICAL
Safety precautions for handling electrical components and grounding.
LOADING
Guidelines for securing items and preventing projectile hazards.
MAINTENANCE
Safety tips for performing maintenance, like checking coolant and using jacks.
FORMALDEHYDE INFORMATION
Information on formaldehyde in components and potential health effects.
CARBON MONOXIDE WARNING
Warning about carbon monoxide from exhaust and handling.
CARBON MONOXIDE ALARM
Details function and testing of the carbon monoxide alarm.
EMERGENCY EXITS
Explains operation of emergency exit windows.
FIRE EXTINGUISHER
Location and inspection of the fire extinguisher.
SMOKE ALARM
Instructions for testing and maintaining the smoke alarm.
SECTION 2: DRIVING YOUR MOTORHOME
BEFORE ENTERING YOUR VEHICLE
Recommended procedures before entering the vehicle for safety checks.
BEFORE DRIVING YOUR VEHICLE
Recommended procedures before driving for safety and comfort.
KEYS
Information on the different sets of keys and their identification.
FUEL SELECTION
Advises referring to the chassis guide for proper fuel selection.
GASOLINE FUEL FILL
Instructions for safe fuel cap removal and filling the tank.
STARTING AND STOPPING ENGINE
Refers to chassis guide for engine start/stop procedures.
PARKING BRAKES
Details how to set and release parking brakes for different models.
HAZARD WARNING LIGHTS
Information on locating and using hazard warning lights.
ENTRANCE DOOR LOCK AND HANDLE
Explains operation of entrance door locks and handles.
ELECTRIC ENTRANCE STEP
Describes operation modes of the electric entrance step.
SEATS
Instructions for adjusting and swiveling driver and co-pilot seats.
ARM REST ADJUSTMENT
Details how to adjust the driver and co-pilot seat armrests.
SEAT BELTS
Instructions on proper use, care, and replacement of seat belts.
CHILD RESTRAINTS
Information on child restraint system requirements and selection.
MIRRORS
Instructions for adjusting power electric mirrors for visibility.
RV RADIO
Overview of the RV Radio system, including AM/FM and players.
Radio Power Switch
Explains the function of the radio power switch for house battery use.
INSTRUMENT PANEL GAUGES AND CONTROLS
Illustrates and describes switches and features on the instrument panel.
MULTI-FUNCTION SIGNAL LEVER
Explains the lever's function for signals, wipers, and cruise control.
COMFORT CONTROLS
Instructions for using AC, heater, and defroster controls.
VENTILATION
How to use ventilation for fresh air intake.
AIR CONDITIONING
Instructions for operating the air conditioning system.
REAR COACH HEATER
How to operate the rear coach heater for warmth.
BATTERY BOOST SWITCH
Explains how to use the battery boost switch for emergency starting.
AUXILIARY BATTERY (Aux. Batt) SWITCH
Explains the function of the auxiliary battery switch.
Passenger Work Station - Optional
Instructions for extending and closing the passenger work station.
COACH LEVELING SYSTEMS
Overview of the hydraulic leveling system and its purpose.
LEVELING PROCEDURE
Step-by-step guide to leveling the motor home using the hydraulic system.
Blocking
Method of using blocks and wheel chocks for leveling stability.
SLIDEOUT ROOM
Description of the slideout room and its extension/retraction mechanism.
TRAVEL STRAPS
Instructions for releasing and fastening slideout room travel straps.
To Extend SlideOut Room
Step-by-step instructions for extending the slideout room.
To Retract SlideOut Room
Step-by-step instructions for retracting the slideout room.
SECTION 3: IN CASE OF DRIVING EMERGENCY
HAZARD WARNING FLASHER
Explains the function and use of hazard warning flashers during emergencies.
IF YOU GET A FLAT TIRE
Advice on handling a flat tire and recommending professional service.
SPARE TIRE STORAGE
Describes the location and removal of the spare tire.
MOTOR HOME TIRE CHANGING PROCEDURE
Detailed steps for changing a motor home tire, including safety precautions.
FRONT WHEEL
Step-by-step instructions for changing a front wheel, including safety.
Dual Rear Wheels
Steps for changing dual rear wheels, with safety precautions.
RECOVERY TOWING
Advice on calling for towing services and proper towing methods.
JUMP STARTING
Detailed instructions for safely jump-starting the vehicle's battery.
CONNECTING A BATTERY CHARGER
Steps for connecting and disconnecting a battery charger safely.
ENGINE OVERHEAT
What to do if the engine overheats, including causes and fixes.
SECTION 4: TRAVELING WITH YOUR MOTORHOME
LOADING THE VEHICLE
Guidelines for distributing cargo weight to avoid exceeding ratings.
FRONT AXLE TIRE ALIGNMENT
Recommendations for checking and adjusting front suspension alignment.
WEIGHING YOUR LOADED VEHICLE
How to find scales and weigh the loaded vehicle for proper distribution.
MAXIMUM OCCUPANCY
Information on belted seating positions versus weight restrictions.
ROOF LOADING
Specifications for carrying loads on the roof while the vehicle is in motion.
CAR OR TRAILER TOWING
Information on towing capacity and weight restrictions.
PRE-TRAVEL CHECK LIST
A checklist of items to inspect before starting a trip.
SEVERE WEATHER INFORMATION
Advice and precautions for dealing with severe weather conditions.
NIGHTTIME DRIVING
Tips for safe driving during nighttime, focusing on visibility.
MOUNTAIN DRIVING
Techniques for safe driving in mountainous or hilly terrain.
CAMPSITE SELECTION
Advice on choosing a level parking spot at a campsite.
LEVELING
Importance of leveling for comfort, appliances, and tank readings.
Blocking
Method of using blocks and wheel chocks for leveling stability.
HUMIDITY AND CONDENSATION
How to manage moisture and condensation inside the coach.
SECTION 5: LP GAS SYSTEM
LP GAS SUPPLY
Explains the function of the LP gas system for various appliances.
SAFE USE OF THE LP GAS SYSTEM
Safety precautions and guidelines for using the LP gas system properly.
HOW LP GAS WORKS
Explains the principles of LP gas operation and its properties.
LP GAS OUTPUT
Information on LP gas output in BTU's and estimating consumption.
LP TANK SYSTEM
Describes the location and access to the LP gas storage tank.
SELECTING LP FUEL TYPES
Recommendation for using straight propane and why.
REFILLING LP TANK
Instructions on where and how to refill the LP gas tank.
TRAVEL WITH LP GAS
Information on regulations for traveling with LP gas tanks in certain areas.
AIR IN THE LP GAS TANK
Explains how air in the LP tank can affect appliance performance.
REGULATOR
Information on the LP gas regulator and freeze-ups.
WINTER USE OF LP GAS
How LP gas performance is affected by temperature and winter usage.
SECTION 6: ELECTRICAL SYSTEMS
110-VOLT AC SYSTEM
Explains the operation of the 110-volt AC system from external sources or generator.
EXTERNAL POWER CORD (Shoreline)
Information on connecting to external power sources using the shoreline cord.
Park Fuses or Breakers
Information on campground electrical protection and power failure.
POWERLINE ENERGY MANAGEMENT SYSTEM (EMS)
Explains the EMS function for managing electrical loads.
POWER CENTER (Converter)
Describes the function of the power center and its circuit breakers.
110-Volt Circuit Breakers
Explains how circuit breakers protect 110-volt components and how to reset them.
Charging Section
How the converter charges coach batteries and its sensing mechanism.
Thermal Overload Protector
Explains the thermal breaker's function in protecting the converter.
GROUND FAULT CIRCUIT INTERRUPTER
Explains the GFCI's role in protecting against electrical shock.
AUXILIARY 110-VOLT GENERATOR
Information on operating and maintaining the auxiliary generator.
Basic Generator Operation
Step-by-step instructions for starting and operating the generator.
12-VOLT DC SYSTEM
Overview of the 12-volt DC system, including chassis and house batteries.
Chassis (Starting) Battery
Describes the function of the chassis battery for starting and accessories.
House Batteries
Explains the function of house batteries for 12-volt equipment.
BATTERY STORAGE AND MAINTENANCE
Guidelines for storing and maintaining lead-acid batteries to prevent damage.
BATTERY CONDITION METER
Refers to monitor panel for battery condition information.
CB RADIO WIRING (Optional)
Information on pre-wired CB radio connections and SWR adjustment.
TRAILER WIRING CONNECTOR
Diagram showing the connection of trailer wiring to the coach.
SECTION 7: PLUMBING SYSTEMS
FRESH WATER SYSTEM
Describes the fresh water system and its two water supply sources.
FRESH WATER TANK FILLING PROCEDURES
Step-by-step guide for filling the fresh water tank using gravity or city water.
WATER PUMP
Explains the operation of the demand water pump and its switch.
Pump Strainer Filter
Instructions for checking and cleaning the pump strainer filter.
Initial Water Line Priming
Steps to prime the water lines and ensure the water heater is filled.
DISINFECTING FRESH WATER SYSTEMS ON RECREATION VEHICLES
Procedure for disinfecting the fresh water system using chlorine.
WATER PURIFIER (FILTER) SYSTEM
Explains the function of the water purifier system and its filter.
EXTERNAL WATER SUPPLY (“City Water”)
How to connect to and disconnect from an external city water source.
SHOWER HOSE VACUUM BREAKER
Explains the function of the shower hose vacuum breaker and normal dripping.
WASTE WATER SYSTEM (HOLDING TANKS)
Describes the waste water system, including black and gray water tanks.
DUMPING HOLDING TANKS
Step-by-step instructions for draining black and gray water holding tanks.
USING ON-SITE SEWER HOOK-UPS
Advice on using on-site sewer hook-ups and managing solids.
HOLDING TANK LEVEL INDICATORS
How to check holding tank levels using the monitor panel.
WATER LINE & TANK DRAIN VALVES
Location and operation of water drain valves for winterization and draining.
TANK CAPACITIES
Lists the capacities for black and gray water holding tanks.
SECTION 8: APPLIANCES & INTERIOR FEATURES
REFRIGERATOR
Explains how the refrigerator operates on AC electric or LP gas.
Leveling
Importance of leveling for refrigerator operation and avoiding vapor lock.
OPERATING INSTRUCTIONS
Detailed instructions for operating Norcold refrigerators with electronic auto mode.
Start-Up Instructions - Gas Mode
Steps to start the refrigerator using LP gas mode and its control panel.
Start-Up Instructions - Auto Mode
How the refrigerator automatically selects the power source in AUTO mode.
Start-Up Instructions - Manual Mode
How to operate the refrigerator in manual modes (AC, LP GAS).
AUTO and MANUAL Modes - Gas Operation Only
Specifics for gas operation, including ignition issues.
Backup Operating System (“BOS”)
Explains the refrigerator's backup system for maintaining cooling.
HUMIDITY - STORAGE SWITCH
How to use the humidity and storage switches for refrigerator operation.
REFRIGERATOR COMPARTMENT (Exterior)
How to access the exterior refrigerator compartment for inspection.
RANGE AND OVEN
General operation of the LP gas range and oven, including pilot light.
Use of Top Burners
Instructions for lighting and using the range top burners.
Lighting Oven Pilot
Step-by-step guide to lighting the oven pilot light.
Operating Oven Control
How to operate the oven control knob for temperature settings.
Shut Down Instructions
How to properly shut down the oven after use or for travel.
MICROWAVE OVEN
Refers to manufacturer's information for microwave oven operation.
RANGE HOOD (Built into microwave)
Operation of the range hood fan and light.
SYSTEMS MONITOR PANEL (Wall Mounted)
Overview of the monitor panel for checking utility systems.
Water And Holding Tank Levels
How to check water and holding tank levels on the monitor lights.
LP Gas Level
How to check the LP gas tank level on the monitor panel.
Water Pump Switch
How to operate the water pump switch and its indicator light.
Battery Charge Meter
How to check the 12-volt coach battery charge level.
Generator Start/Stop Switch
Refers to electrical systems section for generator start/stop instructions.
WATER HEATER
Instructions for operating the direct ignition water heater.
Pressure-Temperature Relief Valve
Information about the water heater relief valve and manual testing.
Water Heater By-Pass Valve
Location and operation of the water heater by-pass valve for winterizing.
MOTOR AID
How the motor aid system uses engine heat to warm water while driving.
LP GAS FURNACE (SUBURBAN)
Step-by-step instructions for starting up and shutting down the LP gas furnace.
HEAT PUMP - Optional
Explanation of how the optional heat pump works and its efficiency.
DUCTED ROOF AIR CONDITIONING SYSTEM
How the air conditioner units are controlled by wall thermostats.
TV ANTENNA
Instructions for raising, lowering, and operating the TV antenna.
SIGNAL AMPLIFIER
Location and operation of the TV signal amplifier.
CABLE TV HOOK-UP
Location of external cable TV connections.
VIDEO SELECTION CENTER
How the video selection center allows switching of signals to different TVs.
DC-AC ELECTRICAL VOLTAGE INVERTER - Optional
Explains the function of the voltage inverter for converting DC to AC power.
EXTERIOR ENTERTAINMENT CENTER
Description of the optional exterior entertainment center.
SLEEPING FACILITIES
Safety warning for using sleeping facilities while the vehicle is moving.
DINETTE/BED CONVERSION
Instructions on how to convert the dinette into a bed.
To Revert to Dinette
Steps to convert the bed back into a dinette.
COUCH BED CONVERSION
Instructions on converting the couch into a bed.
To Revert to Couch
Steps to convert the bed back into a couch.
FRESH WATER TOILET
Explains the operation of the fresh water toilet and its efficient flush system.
Thetford Toilet
Specific operating instructions for the Thetford toilet model.
CLEANING THE TOILET
Guidelines for cleaning the toilet bowl and holding tank for sanitation.
POWER ROOF VENT - Bath Area
Operation of the powered roof vent in the bath area.
CRANK-OUT SIDE WINDOWS
Instructions for opening and closing crank-out side windows.
SLIDER WINDOWS
Instructions for operating slider windows.
DAY/NIGHTER PLEATED BLINDS
How to use and adjust the two-stage pleated window blinds.
QUARTZ WALL CLOCK
Instructions for replacing the battery in the quartz wall clock.
COFFEE MAKER - Optional
Instructions for removing and replacing the coffee maker for cleaning.
SECTION 9: CARE & MAINTENANCE
ROOF
Information on roof materials, weight support, and immediate repair of damage.
UNDERBODY
Importance of cleaning the underbody to prevent rust and manage weight.
EXTERIOR
Recommendations for washing and cleaning the vehicle's exterior finish.
Care of your Gelcoat Fiberglass Finish
Tips for maintaining the gelcoat fiberglass exterior finish.
Stains and Discolorations
Methods for removing exterior stains and discolorations.
Scratches
How to repair minor scratches on the gelcoat exterior.
UPHOLSTERY, CARPETING AND DRAPERIES
Recommendations for cleaning all fabrics and carpets to maintain appearance.
Carpet Care & Cleaning
Refers to carpet manufacturer's guide for cleaning soils and stains.
Upholstery
Care instructions for upholstery fabrics, including testing cleaning products.
Vinyl
How to clean vinyl surfaces with mild detergent and water.
Draperies, Curtains and Bedspreads
Recommendation for professional dry cleaning of these items.
Care of Ceiling Fabric
Guidance for spot cleaning the ceiling fabric.
Spots and Stains
How to treat and remove spots and stains from interior fabrics.
Leather Upholstery - Driver/Co-Pilot Seats & Sofa - (Optional)
Care instructions for optional leather upholstery.
General Stains
Emphasizes quick response for stains and using appropriate cleaners.
CABINETRY
How to clean wooden and vinyl simulated wood cabinetry.
VINYL WALLBOARD
How to clean decorative vinyl wallboards.
CARE AND MAINTENANCE OF YOUR SOLID SURFACE COUNTERTOP
How to maintain solid surface countertops, including cleaning and scratch removal.
STAINLESS STEEL SINK
How to clean the stainless steel sink, including stain removal.
BATHROOM
Cleaning recommendations for the tub, shower walls, and lavatory.
DOORS AND WINDOWS
How to clean windows and lubricate door locks and hinges.
VEHICLE MAINTENANCE
Refers to chassis operating guide for chassis specific maintenance.
TIRES
Importance of proper tire inflation and checking tire information.
SUSPENSION ALIGNMENT AND TIRE BALANCE
Recommendations for checking suspension alignment and tire balance.
LIGHTS
How to check exterior lights, fuses, and circuit breakers.
AUTOMOTIVE 12-VOLT FUSES AND CIRCUIT BREAKERS
Location and function of automotive 12-volt fuses and circuit breakers.
SECTION 10: STORING YOUR MOTOR HOME
PREPARING VEHICLE FOR STORAGE
Steps to prepare the vehicle for storage to prevent damage.
Cold Weather Storage Procedure (Winterizing)
Detailed procedure for winterizing the motor home's plumbing and systems.
Washer/Dryer Winterizing
Step-by-step guide for winterizing the washer/dryer machine.
REMOVAL FROM STORAGE
Steps to take when removing the motor home from storage.
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