Monaco 2009 Knight Owner's Manual page 22

IMPORTANT SAFETY TIP
Turn on the four way flashers if road
speed decreases to the point where the
motorhome is moving significantly
under the posted speed. Use pullouts if
traffic is building. Once in a pullout, if
there is sufficient clearance for safety,
idle the engine for a while to allow the
exhaust and the turbo to cool. While
these are cooling, the transmission will
also cool. Monitor the gauges while
waiting.
Descending a Grade:
Prepare to descend a grade at the crest of
the hill. Observe any signs indicating grade
angle and duration. The sign may suggest
maximum downhill speed according to Gross
Combined Weight (the combined weight of the
motorhome and a trailer/tow car). At the crest
of the hill, manually shift the transmission into
a lower gear. DO NOT allow the motorhome
to gain momentum before slowing down.
Use the exhaust brake to help maintain a
slow, safe downhill speed. Located on the
Driver Side console is an exhaust brake switch.
When the exhaust brake switch is on, the
exhaust brake will activate when the throttle
is released. With exhaust brake applied, road
speed may increase until the transmission
automatically shifts to the next higher gear.
Apply the brakes using moderately heavy
pressure on the brake pedal to reduce speed
and manually downshift to maintain a safe,
slow speed. DO NOT pump the brakes as this
can result in a loss of air pressure. Avoid riding
the brakes as this can cause brakes to overheat.
Either method can result in brake failure or
loss of brake effeciveness.
18
Night Driving:
Be well rested and alert while driving.

If necessary, find a safe stopping place
to rest until ready to continue.
Avoid using interior lights while

driving that create a glare on the
windshield and decrease visibility.
Dim dash lights to a comfortable level

to reduce glare.
Extreme Heat and Hot Weather
Conditions:
Frequently observe all gauges.

Variations from normal conditions
should be promptly evaluated.
Check tire pressure before traveling

in hot conditions. Tire air pressure
increases with heat. DO NOT let air
out of a hot tire. When the tires cool
down they will return to the correct/
previous tire pressure.
Pay extra attention to hoses and belts

that are more susceptible to fatigue in
extreme heat.
Winter and Cold Climate Conditions:
The motorhome should be prepared for

cold weather use.
During cold weather tire air pressure

can decrease. Ensure tires are at proper
inflation rate.
Keep speeds slow and steady. Make

moves gradually and increase visual
distance for a gain in reaction time.
If road or weather conditions are

treacherous, find a safe stopping place
and wait for conditions to improve.
Avoid downshifting or using the

exhaust brake on wet or slippery
surfaces, which can cause the drive
wheels to skid.
Wiper blades should be in

good condition. Fill the washer
reservoir with antifreeze
formula window washer fluid.
Use mirror heat to keep mirrors

clear.
Remove any ice build-up

from the entry step to avoid
accidental slipping.
Wet Conditions:
Worn or improperly inflated tires can

increase the risk of hydroplaning.
Heavy rain or deep standing water can

cause brakes to apply unevenly or grab.
Refueling:
Truck stops are good refueling points

for motorhomes.
Check overhead clearance heights

before pulling through the fuel island.
Be aware of concrete/steel posts

installed around fuel islands.
Avoid running over the fuel hose as it

can get hung up on the motorhome and
cause body damage.
Use of gloves is recommended for

refueling. Store gloves in the outside
compartment.
To prevent grease and fuel deposits

from being tracked into the motorhome
when refueling, change shoes before
entering. Store the extra pair of shoes
near the entry door.
080498n
Located
on Driver's
Console