Chassis And Rear Axle; Exhaust Systems; Winterisation/Storage - Swift Motorhome Owner's Handbook Manual

Motorhome Care

CHASSIS AND REAR AXLE

Some models are built on Fiat Ducato or
Peugeot Boxer base vehicles, the chassis of
which has been converted by Al-Ko. This
conversion provides a hot dipped galvanised
steel chassis coupled with a wide track rear
axle utilising steel torsion bar suspension,
imparting vastly improved stability and road
holding. The rear axle is provided with a
grease nipple at either side. Apply grease
every 5,000 miles (8,000 kilometres) or at
least once a year.
Al-Ko EXHAUST SYSTEM
A standard Fiat exhaust system is fitted
utilising an Al-Ko modified tail pipe, available
through your approved dealer.
A standard Fiat exhaust system is fitted to all
other models, with the addition of a Swift
Group tail pipe.

WINTERISATION/STORAGE

This is probably an opportune moment to
arrange for the motorhome to have its
annual service at your appointed dealer.
The following applies wherever your
motorhome is stored particularly during the
winter months.
Do not park near trees or larch type fences,
due to possible wind damage.
74
Keep any grass around the floor of the
motorhome short, to maintain air flow and
stop any possible damp getting into the
motorhome.
It is advised that the motorhome is ventilated
regularly throughout the winterisation/
storage period, opening windows, doors and
rooflight when possible.
General
All moving parts should be checked for free
operation.
Clean all cooking appliances and refrigerator.
Lubrication should be carried out at the
points illustrated in the general notes on
chassis maintenance.
Charge the on-board battery every
2 months.
Leave the refrigerator door open.
Leave furniture doors and lockers open to
allow air to circulate fully.
Soft Furnishings
Clean and dust the upholstery and if
possible remove before placing the
motorhome into winter storage. Alternatively,
stand the cushions on their edges to allow
circulation of air. This will reduce the
possibility of dampness from condensation.
Keep curtains or blinds closed, to minimise
fading of furniture.
Wheels and Tyres
Do not store in one position with partially
deflated tyres. The tyre walls will suffer and
present a real danger of blow outs,
especially when travelling at faster speeds
than are allowed in the UK.
The wheels should be turned every couple of
weeks.
If you are removing the wheels, follow the
jacking procedure for changing a wheel.
Water System
The Truma water heater MUST be drained to
prevent frost damage. The drain plug, which
is on the outside of the flue cowl, should be
unscrewed to permit draining. When the plug
reaches the end of the thread the plug can
be pulled out a small distance, yet still be
retained in the thread and permit draining to
occur. To allow the system and the tank to
drain effectively, open ALL hot and cold taps
while the heater is still warm.
Remove shower head.
The Thetford Cassette porta potti is easily
winterised for storage. Empty the fresh water
tank using the drain tube/fresh water tank
level indicator (level indicator on electronic
models only). Pull the lever indicator/drain
tube down from top plug position and
outward through door opening to drain water
from the tank.