03 Driving and Road Rules

Safe Driving

BEFORE DRIVING AWAY

Before getting into the drivers seat, always observe the area around your motorhome. A car, bicycle, child or tree branch may be in the area of the motorhome and could remain unseen until it is too late.

There are blind spots that must be checked when parking or backing up your motorhome each and every time it is used.

Before starting the engine, take a walk around the inside and outside of the motorhome.

 

Preparing to Start Your Vehicle

Before starting the engine, make sure that all motorhome occupants have buckled their safety belts. Make sure the headlamps and vehicle accessories are off. Make sure the parking brake is set.

STARTING THE ENGINE

Turn the key to START without pressing the accelerator pedal. Release as soon as the engine starts. The key will return to the ON position.

If the engine does not start within five seconds on the first try, turn the key to the OFF position. After ten seconds try again. If the engine does not start after two attempts, wait ten seconds and then press the accelerator pedal 1/3 to 1/2 of the way to the floor and hold.

Turn the key, when the engine starts release the key and the accelerator pedal. Allow the engine to run at idle for a few seconds before driving.

A computer system controls the engines idle revolutions per minute or RPM. When the engine starts, the idle RPM runs faster to warm the engine. If the engine idle speed does not slow down automatically, contact an authorized Ford Dealership for maintenance. Do not allow the motorhome to idle for more than 10 minutes at higher engine RPM.

EMERGENCY START

Your motorhome has an emergency start switch (Image 32.1) for use if the engine compartment battery becomes discharged or is effected by cold weather.

This switch temporarily connects the coach battery to the engine compartment battery for extra starting power.

To use the emergency start system:

1. Be sure the motorhome is stopped, shifted into "P" (Park) and apply the brake.

2. Press and hold the Emergency Start Switch.

3. Start engine with ignition switch.

4. Release the Emergency Start Switch.

TROUBLESHOOTING

PROBLEM: Engine cranks slowly or not at all

SOLUTION 1: Use Emergency Start Switch (Image 32.1)

SOLUTION 2: Clean and/or tighten the battery terminal cables.

 

Driving Your Motohome

BRAKES

The service brakes are self adjusting. Occasional brake noise is normal and often does not indicate a performance concern with the motorhomes brake system. In normal operation, automatic brake systems may emit occasional or intermittent squeal or groan noises when the brakes are applied.

Such noises are usually heard during the first few brake applications in the morning; however they may be heard at any time while braking and can be aggravated by environmental conditions such as cold, heat, moisture, road dust, salt or mud.

FOUR-WHEEL ANTI-LOCK BRAKE SYSTEM (ABS)

Your motorhome is equipped with Anti-Lock (ABS) brakes. Use anti-lock brakes like normal brakes. You may feel the brakes vibrate, or you may notice some noise outside your motorhome, but this is normal. Let anti-lock work for you, but remember: Your front wheels can still stop rolling. If that happens, release enough pressure on the brakes to get the wheels rolling again so you can steer.

The (ABS) symbol on your dash momentarily illuminates when the ignition is turned on and the engine is off. If the light stays on, the (ABS) needs to be serviced. With the (ABS) light on, the anti-lock brake system system is disabled and normal braking is still effective unless the brake warning light also remains illuminated with the parking brake released.

The (ABS) performs a self-check after you start the engine and begin to drive away. A brief mechanical noise may be heard during this test. This is normal. If a malfunction is found, the (ABS) warning light will come on. If the motorhome has a continuous vibration or shudder in the steering wheel while braking, please contact an authorized Ford Dealership for maintenance.

The (ABS) operates by detecting the onset of wheel lockup during braking applications and compensates for this tendency. The wheels are prevented from locking even when the brakes are firmly applied. In an emergency or when maximum efficiency from the (ABS) is required, apply continuous force on the brake pedal.

The (ABS) will be activated immediately, thus allowing you to retain full steering control of your motorhome and, providing there is sufficient space will enable you to avoid obstacles and bring the motorhome to a controlled stop.

The anti-lock system does not decrease the time necessary to apply the brakes or always reduce stopping distance. Always leave enough room between your motorhome and other vehicles in front and around you.

IN CASE OF SUDDEN TIRE FAILURE 

• Avoid heavy brake application. 
• Gradually decrease speed. 
• Hold the steering wheel firmly and move slowly to a safe, off road place. 
• Park on a firm level spot. 
• Turn off the ignition. 
• Turn on the hazard flasher system. 
• Contact a local authorized service center or if purchased separately, your roadside assistance company.

BRAKE SHIFT INTERLOCK

Your motorhome is equipped with a brake shift interlock feature. This feature prevents you from shifting from "PARK" unless you have the brake pedal depressed. (The ignition must be in the "ON" position).

Always depress the brake pedal before attempting to move the gearshift selector out of "PARK".

 

Driving Using the Gearshift

P (PARK)

Always come to a complete stop before you shift into "P" (PARK) (Image 36.1). This position locks the transmission and prevents the wheels from turning. To securely latch the gearshift in the "P" (PARK) position, pull it towards you and push it completely (left) against the stop and then push it towards the instrument panel. The gearshift is securely latched in "P" (PARK) if you cannot rotate it in a clockwise direction without lifting it toward you.

R (REVERSE)

With the gearshift in the "R" (REVERSE) position, the motorhome will move backwards. You should always come to a complete stop before shifting into or out of "R" (REVERSE).

N (NEUTRAL)

With the gearshift in "N" (NEUTRAL) position, the motorhome can be started and is free to roll. Hold the brake pedal down while in this position.

D (DRIVE)

This gearshift position is for normal driving. It allows the transmission to use all the gears which reduces fuel consumption and engine wear. As the motorhome picks up speed, the transmission automatically up-shifts.

If you need more power for passing or going uphill, push the accelerator pedal down and the transmission will shift to a lower gear. With the Tow/Haul indicator light "ON" (See Page 16), engine braking will occur when descending a grade.

WHEN TO USE 4 (FOURTH GEAR)

Use "4" (FOURTH) for improved traction on slippery roads and for additional engine braking.

WHEN TO USE 2 (SECOND GEAR)

Use "2" (SECOND) to start-up on slippery roads or to provide additional engine braking on downgrades.

NOTE: It is not recommended to exceed 55 miles per hour (88 km/h) in this gear.

WHEN TO USE 1 (LOW GEAR)

Use "1" (LOW) to drive up or down steep grades and to provide maximum engine braking.

NOTE: It is not recommended to exceed 30 miles per hour (48 km/h) in first gear.

 

Safe Driving Tips

USE TRUCK /RV LANES AT TOLL BOOTHS

When traveling, use designated Truck/RV lanes at toll booths and bridges (Image 38.1).

Regular car lanes may not be wide enough or allow for the necessary height clearance for your motorhome.

Using the regular car lanes may lead to a collision causing property damage and may result in serious injury up to and including death.

PASSING

Your side mirrors do not present a complete rear view when changing lanes. Be careful of your blind spots directly next to the driver and directly behind the motorhome. Due to the motorhomes weight and length, more time and distance is required to pass other vehicles.

Remember that your motorhome is much longer than a car, so give other drivers plenty of room before you pull back into a lane.

It is illegal to pass without signaling or to pass on a hill, curve or crosswalk.

NIGHT DRIVING

Use precaution when driving at night. A tired driver, especially one exceeding recommended speed and/or poor driving conditions can contribute to an accident.

PARKING AND BACKING UP

Do not depend solely on your mirrors when backing up. Always use a spotter - have someone outside of the motorhome to check for overhead clearance, side clearance and obstacles whenever possible. Allow for adequate mirror clearance.

Wheels should be turned toward the curb (if applicable), motorhome in "P" (PARK) and the parking brake applied when the motorhome is not going to be used.

BACKUP ALARM

Your motorhome is equipped with a back up alarm. this alarm will consists of a loud repetitive "beep-beep-beep" to warn people behind you that you are backing up. This tone is automatically generated whenever you put the gearshift lever in the reverse position.

BACKUP RADAR

Your motorhome is equipped with backup radar. This radar beeps inside the driver's cab whenever the motorhome nears an object. The radar beeps slowly when you are within six feet of an obstruction. It beeps quickly when you are within two feet of an obstruction. When you hear this quick beeping, stop backing up.

HILLS (UP AND DOWN DRIVING)

When climbing hills, the transmission will automatically shift to lower gears. This decreases the strain on the engine and saves fuel. Do not press the gas pedal to the floor on steep grades.

This wastes fuel, overheats the engine and transmission and can cause permanent damage. Use just enough gas to maintain forward progress.

When descending hills, shift to a lower gear to reduce speed to a slower, safer level. Never use brakes as the sole method to control downhill speeds. Constant brake use can render their stopping power useless.

The lower gear level uses the engine to "brake the motorhome. Never ride your brakes down a hill. That will cause brake overheating and eventually failure.

TURNING

Make turns slowly and with caution. Remember that motorhomes have a much wider turning radius than a car. Make wide turns and watch for side and overhead clearance. Overhead clearance is not always marked. Watch for the rear of the motorhome to swing out.

BRAKING AND STOPPING

DO NOT TAILGATE! ALLOW AT LEAST FOUR SECONDS BETWEEN YOURSELF AND THE VEHICLE AHEAD ON NORMAL SURFACES.

When the vehicle ahead of you passes a certain point, such as a sign, count "onethousand-one to one-thousand-four". This should take close to or a little more than four seconds. If you pass the same point before you finish counting, you are following too closely. For slippery surfaces, allow even more space.

Prolonged use of your brakes may result in overheating and possible brake fade requiring greater stopping distances.

Avoid sudden stops. Abrupt braking or speed changes on a slippery surface can cause skidding, loss of control and possible an accident.

ACCESS CONTROL DEVICES (TIRE SPIKES)

Be aware of access control devices (Image 41.1). These devices are made to punch holes in and ruin your tires. There may be signs to warn you of these.

Damage caused by an access control device would not be covered under the tire manufacturers warranty.

INCLEMENT OR FREEZING WEATHER

Reduce speeds in windy or wet conditions. The size of motorhomes make them susceptible to crosswinds..

Braking distances are increased when driving on ice, snow or rain. Allow extra room between you and any vehicle ahead or besides you. In severe weather conditions, drive slowly with the headlights on. Avoid soft shoulders after a rain.

In the case of a DUST STORM, pull off of the road and turn off your lights.

In extremely HOT CLIMATES, use the air conditioner while driving on level roads and bring extra water.

In case of sub-freezing weather, special operating procedures are required to prevent freeze damage to your motorhome. (Refer to "Winter Operations and Freeze Damage").

Freezing temperatures also have an effect on the propane system. In extremely cold weather, there may not be enough heat outside to vaporize the liquid propane (LP) in your propane tank. This can reduce or even stop the flow to your appliances.

STOPPING FOR FUEL AND LIQUID PROPANE (LP) GAS

Before refilling the motorhome fuel tank and/or Liquid Propane (LP) tank(s):

• Turn off all gas appliances and pilot lights (furnace, water heater, refrigerator and cooktop). Turn off the liquid propane (LP) gas system at the propane tank.

• Turn off the engine and generator.

• Use only the recommended fuel that Ford Motor company recommends for the chassis of your motorhome.

TIRES

Check tires and tire air pressure. The recommended pressure is 80PSI for "COLD" tires, (i.e. when the motorhome has been parked for at least an hour or has been driven for less than 3 miles.

WARNING: DO NOT UNDERINFLATE THE TIRES FOR A SMOOTHER RIDE.

This is a dangerous misconception. Under inflated tires can cause the tires to overheat very quickly causing treads to separate which can and probably lead to a blow out.

• • Check oil, transmission fluid, engine coolant and windshield wiper fluid every time you fuel up. If oil changes or transmission fluid are required, use those recommended by Ford Motor company.
• • Check generator oil level (with generator shut off) after approximately 6 hours of use. Follow manufacturers recommended service schedule.
• • Check brake lights and turn signal operation.
• • Adjust mirrors as needed.
• • Do not remove radiator cap for any reason at any time. Serious injuries could occur. Always check coolant level visually at see-through coolant reservoir. Add coolant if necessary.
• • Do not leave valuable in your motorhome when unattended. Always take them with you.
• • When you stop for a period of time, check under the motorhome to see if there are any leaks from the chassis.
• • Make sure brake fluid levels are between MIN and MAX lines for normal operating range. If the fluids are outside of the normal operating level, contact an authorized Ford Dealership for maintenance.
• • It is recommended that other than the addition of fuel and lubricants, a qualified service technician should perform all maintenance service.
• • If possible, always have someone outside the motorhome to guide you while you are parking or backing up.

ENGINE COMPARTMENT DIAGRAM