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RECREATIONAL VEHICLE COMPANY GENERAL MAINTENANCE GENERAL MAINTENANCE & TROUBLESH TING & TROUBLESH TING...
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This General Maintenance & Troubleshooting Guide has been prepared to help you maintain your Coachmen RV to assure year of trouble-free service. This manual contains instructions for the general care and maintenance of your RV. The manual also contains a Troubleshooting section that outlines some simple checks if, by chance, a component in your RV is not operating properly.
Table of Contents INTERIOR ..................Page 3 LEGEND THE FOLLOWING LEGEND IS APPLIANCES...................Page 9 INTENDED TO EXPLAIN THE VARIOUS ICONS PICTURES WHICH ARE USED THROUGH EXTERIOR ..................Page 11 OUT THE MANUAL THEY ARE USED PRIMARILY FOR YOUR CONVENIENCE AND TO BRING ROOFS ....................Page 13 ATTENTION TO THE INFORMA TION AT HAND...
INTERIOR The interior of your recreational vehicle is comprised of several different types of materials. This section is a guide to the proper care and maintenance of the major interior components of your recreational vehicle. COUNTERTOPS There are two types of countertop surface materials: solid surface (i.e. Corian®) and laminant (Formica®). Solid surface countertops and sinks: Solid surface materials are easy to care for and if damaged, easy to repair.
INTERIOR ✔ Use mild soap and water with soft cloth to clean and dust regularly. ✔ DO NOT use abrasive cleaners, scour pads or harsh solvents to clean. ✔ DO NOT use acid based cleaners and polishes such as, Fantastic®, Formula 409® or lemon oil products. ✔...
INTERIOR DECOR ITEMS Decor items such as pleated shades, doors or curtains, decor glass, bedspreads and venetian blinds should be taken care of as follows: Window Treatments, Curtains and Bedspreads ✔ Due to fire retardant chemicals in these items they must be dry cleaned only. ✔...
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INTERIOR Ceramic Tile ✔ Vacuum regularly to remove dirt and gritty particles. Follow with a mop or sponge dampened with a non-abrasive "soapless" household cleaner. ✔ DO NOT use cleaning agents with acids, as the tile will etch, and the grout will deteriorate prematurely.
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INTERIOR Stain Treatment A Medium soft brush, warm soapy water /rinse/ dry. Betadine ........B, A B Fantastic Spray Cleaner®/ rinse/ dry. Chewing Gum......D, A, B Eye shadow ......B C One (1) tablespoon ammonia, one-fourth (⁄) cup Motor Oil .........B hydrogen peroxide, three-fourths (fl) cup of water/ Spray Paint.......B, E rinse/ dry.
APPLIANCES Unless you have experience in working with LP gas appliances, we recommend having your appliance main- tenance requirements performed by your Coachmen dealer or an appliance manufacturer authorized service center. WATER HEATER Refer to your water heater owner's guide for operation and maintenance instructions. Twice a year do the following: ✔...
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APPLIANCES RANGETOP Refer to range manufacturer's owner's manual for operation and maintenance instructions. ✔ To prevent undue damage to porcelain top - use proper sized pans. Pans should not be more than 1" larger than grate. Maximum size is 10". ✔...
EXTERIOR SEALANTS Water is a recreational vehicle's worst enemy when it is allowed to enter where it's not intended. Sealants perform a very important function and should be inspected closely and maintained regularly. Coachmen utilizes many different types of sealants, including: Butyl/Putty, Black Butyl encapsulated foam, Silicone - clear and colored, Roof Lap Sealant, and Foam Blocobond.
ROOFS RUBBER ROOF MATERIAL Proper care and maintenance of the Carlisle Brite-Ply® roof is important for trouble free performance. Normal main- tenance is simple and easy. Regions where fruit/tree sap or harsh environmental fallout exist will require more fre- quent cleaning, and extended exposure will result in permanent stains. At least four times a year, clean the roof by: ✔...
WALLS FILON Filon® sidewalls have a "fiber" look to them and are very easy to care for and protect the finish. ✔ Wash the exterior of RV with a liquid non-abrasive cleaner and water. ✔ Periodically wax with an automotive wax or cleaner/polish developed for boats, showers, and tubs. Simply follow directions on package.
WINDOWS ESCAPE, SLIDER, JALOUSIE TYPES Any ventilating window may permit some water inside, especially during heavy rainstorms or while driving. This is normal and water should only be seen in the lower track portion of the window frame. Condensation will also cause water to accumulate on windows and in the tracks. Drainage is accomplished by the sloping sill and weep holes in the frame.
FRAME & CHASSIS–MOTORIZED You will need to refer to your chassis owner's manual for maintenance instructions set by the manufacturer of Coachmen motorhomes chassis (e.g. Workhorse, Ford, Spartan, Freightliner or Chevrolet). TIRES AND ALIGNMENT ✔ Prior to each trip, perform a general exterior inspection. Inspect and monitor closely tire wear and pressure.
FRAME & CHASSIS–TOWABLE FRAME & METAL BUMPERS ✔ Rinse off periodically or as use requires, to remove road grime, tar, oil, mud and salt. Check frame for rust and if found, sand and paint with rust-preventing paint or undercoating. • Be sure vehicle is on a level surface and wheels blocked before working or cleaning underneath. COUPLERS ✔...
SUSPENSION–MOTORIZED AIR BAGS As a vehicle is loaded, the steel suspension springs are pushed down. Your vehicle’s suspension system is designed to give optimum performance and handling at one specific weight. Often, with an RV or truck you lose some of the performance when the unit is too heavily loaded. As the springs deflect, the ride may become “mushy”...
SUSPENSION–TOWABLE Weigh unit periodically to ensure you have loaded your unit within its weight specifications and have weight distributed as specified in your owner's manual. If weights are exceeded, remove and/or redistribute cargo accordingly. SUSPENSION ✔ Inspect suspension components at least every 6-months/6,000 miles for signs of excess wear, elongation of bolt holes, and loose fasteners.
TIRES Tire pressure is the most important factor in the life and performance of your tire. ✔ Inflation pressure should be as recommended by the manufacturer or as the federal label for the trailer dictates. ✔ Pressure should be checked when tires are cold. DO NOT bleed air from hot tires. ✔...
JACKS–TOWABLE TONGUE JACKS - ELECTRIC/MANUAL (TRAVEL TRAILERS & CAMPING TRAILERS) ELECTRIC JACK: ✔ Check connections at battery and keep clean and tight. ✔ Prior to camping season, or at least twice a year, extend jack leg as far as possible and clean inner ram tube. ✔...
JACKS–TOWABLE STABILIZER JACKS ✔ Inspect jacks prior to each use for damage, bent or worn parts. ✔ Along with frame maintenance, inspect for rust; if found, sand, prime and paint with rust preventative paint. ✔ Lubricate pivot points and gear assembly every 6 months with a quality silicone lubricant. ✔...
ELECTRICAL With the use of more electronic equipment in recreational vehicles, the electrical system has become increasingly important. The key to consistent performance and minimal trouble is to understand the functions of the basic components (batteries, generator and shore line cord). Additionally, there is a power center that includes a converter to provide 120V AC and 12V DC when shore line is plugged in or when generator is running.
ELECTRICAL Helpful Hints ✔ A "dead" battery, one with a low rate of charge, may be "jumped" using the following procedure: • Use approved or UL listed jumper cables - they should be 4 gauge or larger. • Connect the positive lead to the "good" battery. •...
ELECTRICAL 110 VOLT AMP RATING Coffee Maker ........8.3 amps Refrigerator-Dometic....2.7 amps Converter ..........8.0 amps Refrigerator-Norcold ....2.9 amps Food Processor........5.6 amps Roof Air Conditioner-Cool..13.3 amps Electric Skillet ........6.0 to 12.0 amps Roof Air Conditioner-Heat ..16.0 amps Hair Dryer .........9.0 to 12.0 amps Television........1.5 amps Ice Maker ..........2.9 amps Toaster .........8.0 to 10.0 amps...
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ELECTRICAL INVERTER ✔ In motorhomes where an inverter is available, it is important to remember that the inverter system is designed to temporarily run appliances such as the TV, microwave, and a few 110 volt receptacles. ✔ The switch on outside, for most cases, should be left in the "Off" position. System can be turned on and off from remote panel inside of coach.
ELECTRICAL Generators Continued Refer to your operator’s manual for specific instructions. Below is a chart showing required periodic maintenance as provided by Onan. After Each Cycle of Indicated Hours Service These Items 8 hrs 50 hrs 150 hrs 300 hrs 500 hrs General Inspection Check Oil Level...
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ELECTRICAL Exterior Fuses and Circuit Breaker ✔ Primarily located by the RV battery. Inspect regularly, prior to each trip or on a monthly basis to ver- ify condition. Guard against corrosion. Clean if necessary and replace any that are damaged, corrod- ed or non-functional Dash fuse location –...
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ELECTRICAL CIRCUIT DEFINITIONS - MOTORIZED 120 Volt Circuits Breaker Rating Location Microwave Power Center Converter Power Center Air Conditioner Power Center/Generator Washer/Dryer (optional) Power Center 110V Receptacles Power Center 110V Power Center Generator TV Lift Power Center 12 Volt Circuits Breaker Rating Location CO Detector...
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ELECTRICAL CIRCUIT RATINGS & LOCATIONS - NON-MOTORIZED 120 Volt Circuits Breaker Rating Location Microwave 15 Amp Power Center Water Heater 15 Amp Power Center Main Air Conditioner 20 Amp Power Center 2nd Air Conditioner 20 Amp Distribution Panel Refrigerator (GFCI) 15 Amp Power Center Receptacles &...
PLUMBING For the most part, the fresh water system needs just periodic sanitization and winterization. These two func- tions will take care of all the components within the plumbing system. ✔ Sanitize your system: At the beginning of each season. When the system becomes contaminated.
PLUMBING ✔ Open hot water lines on all faucets (kitchen, lavatory, tub/shower, and if equipped, the outside shower) until the solution begins to flow continuously and a chlorine smell is noticed. Close and repeat with the cold side of the faucets. ✔...
PLUMBING ✔ For products with a Water Filter, remove the filter cartridge and install the bypass line or, if equipped, place the bypass valve in the bypass position. ✔ Turn the water pump on and the RV anti-freeze will be drawn into the water system. Turn cold water side of the faucets on until the anti-freeze flows out.
LP SYSTEM IMPORTANT SAFETY REGULATIONS–PLEASE READ CAREFULLY. LP GAS SYSTEMS AND APPLIANCES Coachmen Industries is required to furnish the following consumer information as provided by the National Fire Prevention Association and the American National Standards Institute. The information and warnings found here may also be found in sections of the Owner's Manual. Please see sections in Owner's Manual titled "Liquid Petroleum Gas System"...
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LP SYSTEM 3. Shut off the gas supply at the tank valve(s) or gas supply connection. 4. Open doors and other ventilating openings. 5. Leave the area until odor clears. 6. Immediately have the gas system checked and leakage source corrected by a Coachmen dealer immediately.
SLIDE-0UT & LEVELING SYSTEM SLIDE-OUTS ✔ The slide-out mechanisms are virtually maintenance free. Keep slide-out rails clean and free of dirt and road grime build up. It is recommended that a dry silicone lubricant be applied to the slide out rails, gears, and rollers.
MISCELLANEOUS HINGES, LOCKS, LATCHES ✔ Lubricate with a high quality silicone lubricant every 3 months or sooner if necessary. Salty air and dusty environments will require more frequent maintenance. EXTERIOR DOORS ✔ Follow Filon® sidewall maintenance instructions. ✔ Water Heater, Furnace and Refrigerator exterior doors need to be kept clean and free of obstruc- tions (i.e.
RV STORAGE / RV START-UP STORAGE Properly preparing your recreational vehicle during lengthy time periods of non-use will prevent problems from arising. It will also make it easier to get started again for the following camping trip or season. ✔ To prevent costly freeze-ups winterize the plumbing system in colder climates. Refer to winterization instructions on page 42.
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RV STORAGE / RV START-UP ✔ Inspect shore line cord, clean contacts if necessary. ✔ Turn on circuit breakers, test GFCI circuits. ✔ Inspect LP containers, repair if necessary. Uncover regulator and turn on service valves. Inspect LP system as per instructions in LP Gas section on page 45. ✔...
For your convenience, please find a list of phone numbers at the end of this guide of appliance/compo- nent manufacturers who can refer you to their local service centers. Should you require Coachmen's assis- tance, please call the Coachmen RV Customer Service Department at 1-800-453-6064. AIR CONDITIONERS Nothing works.
TROUBLESHOOTING 12 Volt RV power operates nor- mally but indicator lights/volt- meter will not illuminate. ✔ Check fuses on solenoid (same locations above) and replace if blown with same type and rating (5 Amp). Battery switched to "Store" position but indicator light Battery Disconnect Panel Battery Disconnect Panel remains on.
TROUBLESHOOTING ELECTRICAL POWER No electrical power to unit (110V or 12V). ✔ Make sure you have power to the shoreline receptacle. ✔ Circuit breaker (120V) may be off or tripped. Reset breaker(s) at power center. ✔ Check for low battery or dead battery. ✔...
TROUBLESHOOTING GENERATOR Generator cranks (while holding start button down) but will not start. ✔ Generator may be out of fuel. Check the fuel level (should be at least 1/4 full). ✔ Generator may be low on oil. Check the oil level. ✔...
TROUBLESHOOTING Jacks will not retract. ✔ Jack pad may be stuck in the ground. Free from earth. ✔ Problem in solenoid manifold. Turn T-handles counter-clockwise until seated. After jacks retract close valves. ✔ Shuttle valve on manifold stuck. Open bleeder screw. One jack will not retract.
TROUBLESHOOTING OUTSIDE RECEPTACLE No power to outside receptacle. ✔ GFI (Ground Fault Interrupt) receptacle switch may be off or tripped.Reset GFI at receptacle (kitchen or bath). ✔ Bad power source. Make sure you have power from shoreline. OVENS Oven too hot (burns food). ✔...
TROUBLESHOOTING REFRIGERATORS The control panel lights are not illuminated. ✔ Check coach circuit breakers & GFI receptacle. ✔ Check 12 volt DC at terminal block on rear of refrigerator. Lights are illuminated but no cooling. ✔ Use a proper power source that is available and operating to specification. ✔...
TROUBLESHOOTING RBW ELECTRIC SLIDE-OUT Room will not retract. ✔ Check for correct voltage or blown fuse. ✔ Check inner slide tubes for corrosion. Clean rust. ✔ For manual operation instructions, see Appendix A on page 73. HWH HYDRAULIC SLIDE-OUT Room will not retract. ✔...
TROUBLESHOOTING Water entering vehicle through gear housing. ✔ Lubricate rubber quad ring on elevating shaft (Diag A) which is below worm gear with silicone spray lubricant at least twice yearly. This will keep quad ring from becoming brittle which could result in leaks down elevat- ing shaft.
TROUBLESHOOTING Satellite Antenna Continued You have no picture ✔ Be sure you have a clear line of sight. The signal from the satellite(s) WILL NOT pass through trees, buildings, mountains etc. Remember the antenna has a 24˚ offset, this means that when the antenna is straight up and down (90˚) it is looking 24˚...
TROUBLESHOOTING Water Heaters Continued ✔ should first open your relief valve to allow air into the tank. Secondly, take a small gauge wire or coat hanger device and prod through the drain opening to eliminate any obstructions. ✔ After thoroughly draining the tank, flush the entire system from water inlet all the way to holding tank. ✔...
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TROUBLESHOOTING ✔ Check for correct voltage to pump. ✔ Check for loose drive assembly or pump head screws. For additional assistance, please contact your dealer, Coachmen’s Technical Service Department at 1-800- 453-6064 or the appropriate component manufacturer at the number indicated below: COMPONENT MANUFACTURER PHONE NO.
Should you require additional assistance, please do not hesitate to call Coachmen Customer Service at 800-453-6064. SLIDE-OUT ROOM MANUAL OPERATION (LIFTCO–CLASS “A”) (MIRADA / PATHFINDER / RENDEZVOUS) MAIN SLIDE-OUT ROOM & BEDROOM SLIDE-OUT ROOM ✔ Locate manual override switch. It can be found next to slide-out operation switch or on the exterior of the dinette cushion base.
APPENDIX A SLIDE-OUT ROOM MANUAL OPERATION (SPORTSCOACH) MAIN SLIDE-OUT ROOM ✔ Locate the manual override switch at the main control panel and have someone depress and hold the switch for the front slide. ✔ Locate override shaft in driver’s side front wheel well behind tire. ✔...
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APPENDIX A POWER GEAR SLIDE-OUT ROOM–TOWABLES...
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APPENDIX A POWER GEAR SLIDE-OUT BEDROOM–TOWABLES...
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To Our Valued Customer If you have a problem obtaining satisfactory and timely warranty service that may substantially impair, use, value or safety of your Coachmen product, please call our Owner Relations Department toll free at 1-800-453-6064 so that we may attempt to resolve your concerns. You can also contact us through our Service Support website at: www.coachmenrv.com...