12 Maintenance Washing and Drying

Washing

When washing your TIFFIN GH1 by hand, use a mild cleaning agent, such as car shampoo. Wash the vehicle with lukewarm water and a soft car sponge. When doing so, do not expose the vehicle to direct sunlight.

Carefully spray the vehicle with water and dry off with a leather cloth. Be careful not to point the water jet directly towards the air inlet grilles. The blower should be switched off while doing so. Do not let the cleaning agent dry on the paint-work.

At the onset of winter, remove all traces of road salt deposits carefully and as soon as possible.

For more information on washing your TIFFIN GH1, refer to the Mercedes-Benz Sprinter manual.

Seals

The seals around the doors, windows, vents, and external seams should be checked at least semi-annually. If deterioration is noted during a routine maintenance inspection, reseal the seams or seals with an approved sealant to prevent leaks.

Your TIFFIN GH1 dealer can perform resealing inspections and subsequent work for you. It is recommended that a Tiffin GH1 authorized service center perform these inspections periodically and perform the necessary resealing as required.

Proper Sealants for Application

The following sealants are recommended for specific applications, as noted in the table. These can be purchased through the Tiffin GH1 parts and service department by calling 205-487-4710.

Roof Care & Maintenance

Proper care and maintenance of your Van including your roof is important for sustained trouble-free performance. Normal maintenance is simple and easy and does not require special materials. The roof of the Van is metal and can be cared for in the conventional manner. Clean the roof at least every three months. The roof should be professionally inspected by a dealer annually.

Moisture Maintenance

This section outlines important recommendations to manage moisture in your Van to avoid moisture related damage such as mold. The materials and methods used to construct your Van were selected in part to minimize air leakage and to create a weather tight exterior shell.

However in order to protect your investment and reduce the risk of moisture related damage and costly repairs, attention and care has to be taken to manage moisture inside of your Van.

NOTE: These are only suggestions intended to minimize moisture related issues with your Van. If any concerns arise, contact Tiffin Motorhomes' Service Department

Interior Care

Signs of excessive moisture can be obvious, such as water droplets forming on surfaces or wet carpet. Conversely, signs of excess moisture can be subtle, such as condensation forming on metal surfaces.

When symptoms appear, it is important to immediately determine the cause of the excess moisture and take appropriate corrective action to prevent moisture related damage.

Condensation

Damage may occur to your vehicle if excessive condensation exists. Accumulation of condensation on surfaces within your Van occurs when warm, moist air contacts a cool surface. It is most evident on the inside of windows, but this problem can be controlled by:

1. Slightly opening a window or roof vent to allow the moisture to escape from the motor home.

2. A small dehumidifier is also very effective in removing moisture from the air.

 

Fabrics

The fabrics used in the Tiffin GH1 for the bedspread contain fire retardant additives that may be damaged by use of improper cleaning products. Cleaning instructions for these items are "DRY CLEAN ONLY".

Water based products are not recommended for cleaning the fabrics in your motorhome. Most water based household cleaning products are not formulated for use on these fabrics and may cause excessive shrinkage or fading.

For best results, the fabrics in your Van should be cleaned by a professional carpet and upholstery cleaner.

Spills, spots or stains should be treated as soon as possible to avoid permanent damage to the fabrics. If a spill occurs, blot the fluid with a dry towel, do nut rub the spill as rubbing may cause the liquid to "set" in the fabric and cause a stain.

While attempting to clean a spot or stain, always start from the outside and work inward to avoid spreading the stain further. Some stains or soils are extremely difficult or impossible to totally remove. These stains should receive immediate professional attention.

Spills, spots, stains or soiled areas are the responsibility of the owner and are not covered by the Tiffin GH1 Motor Homes Limited Warranty.

 

Walls & Ceiling

The wall and ceiling coverings should be cleaned periodically to maintain a new appearance. Use a nonabrasive cleaner with a soft cloth on the walls. Do not use solvents of any kind, as those solvents may damage the surfaces being cleaned.

Dashboard

To keep the Van dashboard in like-new condition, regularly follow these guidelines:

DO:

• Dust and clean the dashboard with a soft, damp cloth or chamois, wiping the surface gently
• Use a mild detergent and lukewarm water
• After washing and rinsing the dashboard, dry it by blotting with a damp cloth or chamois

DO NOT:

• Use harsh chemicals that may damage the dashboard
• Use cloths containing grit or abrasive particles or kitchen scouring compounds to clean or dust the dashboard
• Subject the dashboard to hard, direct blows
• Use boiled water, strong solvents, or other such materials to clean the dashboard, as they will soften the plastic

Woodwork & Floors

The wood cabinetry should be cared for with furniture polish to sustain the natural beauty and luster of the wood. This procedure will also keep the cabinetry looking new, prevent the wood from drying and reduce chances of accidental staining or aging.

Use area rugs and floor mats by the side entrance door to trap dirt.

Use soap and water to clean the flooring, begin by vacuuming the floor to remove loose dust and dirt. Then, damp mop the floor with a standard cleaning solution. The mop should be damp but not dripping. Feel free to use soap based cleaners, scouring powders, steel wool, abrasive cleaners, wax or polish on the ceramic floor as this floor is impervious to these cleaning agents.

To remove stubborn spots like shoe polish, oil, tar, markers, scuffs and the like; use a household solvent or nail polish remover on those spots then wipe those treated areas with a damp cloth.

To remove chocolate, grease, juice or wine, use warm water and any off the shelf abrasive cleaner. To remove candle wax or chewing gum, carefully scrape off when the material has hardened. For further tips, please see the manufacturer’s information sheet in your Tiffin GH1 Owner Information Package.

Countertops

To care properly for the countertops in your Van, always use a heat pad or trivet to protect the surface from hot objects that may mar or damage the countertop surface. Hot pans and heat producing appliances (such as electric skillets), when set directly on top of the countertop, can possibly mar the beauty and finish of the product.

Additionally, since heat producing appliances can also damage the countertop seams, it is essential to check with Tiffin GH1to identify seam locations to avoid them during subsequent use of the Van.

Although solid surfacing is repaired easily, certain steps should be taken to protect it. Be sure to use a cutting board rather than cutting an item directly on the countertop surface. Although minor scratches and cuts can be repaired a little care will assure that the countertop surface will keep looking new for years.

Avoid using harsh chemicals on the countertop. Wipe the countertop with a damp cloth to remove water spots. For most dirt and stains, wipe with a damp cloth and soapy water or ammonia based cleaners (e.g., Windex).

If a stain doesn't respond to soap and water, for a matte finish apply an abrasive cleanser and buff it with a Scotch-Brite pad using a circular motion. Use the same technique in the case of a cigarette burn. If the finish is a gloss finish, please contact the dealer for specific cleaning instructions.

Do not expose the surface to harsh chemicals such as paint remover, turpentine, nail polish remover or any stove and drain cleaners. If these chemicals should come into contact with the countertop surface, immediately wash off these chemicals, using appropriate safety to avoid injury.

In the event of subsequent staining or spotting, sand the affected surface lightly with fine sandpaper (400 grit or finer), then buff in a circular motion with a Scotch-Brite pad.

Accessories

The metallic light fixtures, bath accessories and faucets can be cleaned by wiping with a soft, damp cloth. Washing with warm water will remove dry water spots. Polishing those fixtures with a soft cloth will also enhance the appearance.

Do not use cleaners that contain harsh or abrasive chemicals. Alcohol or other similar solvents should never be used either.

Detectors

The CO propane gas detectors are self-contained and DO NOT require any maintenance other than normal cleaning and periodic testing. The smoke detector installed in your Van is a nine volt, battery operated detector.

The CO gas detector is wired directly to the house batteries. The batteries in the smoke detector need to be tested periodically and replaced when necessary. When cleaning the case use a damp cloth or paper towel.

DO NOT spray cleaners or wax directly into the detectors case as this action may cause false alarms or hinder the normal operation of the detectors.

An inexpensive battery detector tester would be a good investment to make. This tester would allow checking of the batteries in the various alarms, any flashlights used in the Van and batteries in other appliances which may be in the Van during travels.

Routine Maintenance Schedules

All routine maintenance is the responsibility of the owner and is not covered by the TIFFIN GH1 Limited Warranty. Use the maintenance record found in Chapter 13 to record all performed maintenance as required.

Please note that any damage caused by improper or unperformed maintenance is not covered by the TIFFIN GH1 Motor Homes Limited Warranty. Items supplied by other manufacturers may require specific individual maintenance not listed herein. Please refer to the manufacturers’ suggested maintenance guidelines in the Owners Information Package.

MONTHLY:

• Check the water levels of the batteries

EVERY THREE MONTHS:

• Test smoke alarm and carbon monoxide/LP gas detector.
• Check operation of windows, latches, and hinges. • Clean the roof ducted air conditioner filter or filters.
• Clean and inspect door and window seals; reseal where necessary.
• Inspect and reseal around the tub and shower area where necessary.
• Lubricate the exterior door hinges and latches with a graphite (silicone) lubricant. Check, clean, and tighten battery cables and inspect batteries for proper fluid levels

EVERY SIX MONTHS:

• Change the battery in the smoke detector.
• Rotate tires as recommended by the tire manufacturer.
• Check all gas appliances for proper operation.
• Change the batteries in both the smoke detector

ANNUALLY:

• Inspection of roof seams and joints should be performed by an authorized Motor Homes Service Center. If resealing is necessary, it is the owner’s responsibility and is not covered by the Tiffin GH1 Limited warranty.
• Sanitize the fresh water system.

Winterizing

To store your vehicle for the winter months, it is necessary to winterize the water system to help prevent freezing of this system. To do this, follow these instructions:

Drain all the water from the water system including the holding tank(s) and freshwater tank. Also, drain the water filter. For the holding tank(s), open the gate valve(s) to drain the tanks. Turn off water heater before draining to prevent burning the element out.

(NOTE: This procedure is to be performed only at a waste water pumping station to prevent dumping of contaminated water elsewhere). For the water heater, remove the outside cover and then remove the drain plug. When this tank is drained, replace the drain plug and then replace the cover. For the water tank, open the red-handled valve to drain the tank; then close the valve. Remove the filter cartridge from the water filter and store it in a clean environment. Empty any excess water from the filter housing and replace the housing.

At the sewer board turn the blue handle valve to the sanitize/winterize position turn the red handle valve to the bypass position.

Connect a vinyl hose to the inlet valve on the sewer board place the other end of the hose into a gallon of freshwater system antifreeze. NOTE: Do not use automotive antifreeze; use only antifreeze approved for RV applications. Otherwise, damage to the systems being protected may result. Turn “on” the water pump to start the flow of antifreeze.

Turn “on” each faucet, one at a time, including the kitchen faucet, bath faucet, inside and outside showers and allow pure antifreeze to run through that piping. Let about one cup drop into the drains to protect the traps.

When all the antifreeze is withdrawn from the bottle, disconnect the vinyl hose from the inlet valve on the sewer board. (This may require more than one gallon of antifreeze).

When the winterize process is completed, turn the water pump “off”. Store the vinyl hose for future use.

De-Winterizing

To de-winterize your vehicle, open both of the low-point drains to allow the antifreeze solution to drain from the water system.

Next, close the low-point drains and connect your vehicle to the city water system. Put water in the freshwater tank and pump at least one gallon through the water pump to remove the antifreeze from the water pump.

As in winterizing, open the kitchen faucet, bath faucet, inside and outside showers, turning “on” both the hot- and the cold-water valves and flushing the stool until the antifreeze solution is flushed out of the system and the water flow is clear.

Open the freshwater tank supply valve from the pump and the icemaker valve.

Be sure to close the fresh water tank drain valves to allow the tank to fill.

 

Wheel Care

The care and maintenance of your wheels are simple and require no special material or products; simply follow the directions included in the Owner’s Information Package for these. Timely care and cleaning will maintain the appearance of these wheel products for many years.

Tire & Safety Information

This portion of the Owner’s Manual contains tire safety information as required by 49 CFR 575.6. The National Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) can be contacted at     1-888-327-4236. Their web site is http://www.safecar.gov and their address is: NHTSA, 400 Seventh St, S.W., Washington, D.C. 20590.

Section One:

The National Traffic Safety (NHTSA) has published a brochure (DOT HS 809 361) that discusses all aspects of Tire Safety, as required by CFR 575.6. This brochure is reproduced in part below. It can be obtained and downloaded from NHTSA, free of charge, from the following web site: http://www.nhtsa.dot.gov/cars/rules/...idesonit/tires index.html

Studies of tire safety show that maintaining proper tire pressure, observing tire and vehicle load limits, avoiding road hazards, and inspecting tires for cuts, slashes, and other irregularities are the most important things you can do to avoid tire failure, such as tread separation or blowout and flat tires. These actions, along with other care and maintenance activities, can also:

• Improve vehicle handling
• Help protect you and others from avoidable breakdowns and accidents
• Improve fuel economy
• Increase the life of your tires

 

This section presents a comprehensive overview of tire safety, including information on the following topics:

• Basic tire maintenance
• Uniform Tire Quality Grading System
• Fundamental characteristics of tires
• Tire safety tips

Use this information to make tire safety a regular part of your vehicle maintenance routine. Recognize that the time you spend is minimal compared with the inconvenience and safety consequences of a flat tire or other tire failure.

Safety First Basic Tire Maintenance

Properly maintained tires improve the steering, stopping, traction, and load carrying capability of your motorhome. Under-inflated tires and overloaded vehicles are a major cause of tire failure. Therefore, as mentioned above, to avoid flat tires and other types of tire failure, you should maintain proper tire pressure, observe tire and vehicle load limits, avoid road hazards and regularly inspect your tires.

Finding Your Van's Recommended Tire Pressure and Load Limits

Tire information placards and vehicle certification labels contain information on tires and load limits. These labels indicate the vehicle manufacturer’s information including:

• Recommended tire size
• Recommended tire inflation pressure
• Vehicle capacity weight (VCW – the maximum occupant and cargo weight a motorhome is designed to carry.)
• Front and rear gross axle weight ratings (GAWR – the maximum weight the axle systems are designed to carry).

Understanding Tire Pressure and Load Limits

Tire inflation pressure is the level of air in the tire that provides it with load carrying capacity and affects the overall performance of the Van. The tire inflation pressure is a number that indicates the amount of air pressure - measured in pounds per square inch (PSI) - a tire requires to be properly inflated. (You will also find this number on the Van information placard expressed in kilopascals (kPa), which is the metric measure used internationally).

Van manufacturers determine this number based on the Van's design load limit, that is the greatest amount of weight a Van can safely carry and the Van's tire size. The proper tire pressure for your Van is referred to as the "recommended cold inflation pressure".

Because tires are designed to be used on more than one type of vehicle, tire manufacturers list the "maximum permissible inflation pressure" on the tire sidewall. This number is the greatest amount of air pressure that should ever be put in the tire under normal driving conditions.

Checking Tire Pressure

It is important to check your vehicle’s tire pressure at least once a month for the following reasons:

Most tires may naturally lose air over time Tires can lose air suddenly if you drive over a pothole or other object or if you strike the curb when parking

With radial tires, it is usually not possible to determine under-inflation by visual inspection for convenience, purchase a tire pressure gauge to keep in your vehicle. Gauges can be purchased at tire dealerships, auto supply stores, and other retail outlets.

The recommended tire inflation pressure that vehicle manufacturers provide reflects the proper psi when a tire is cold. The term cold does not relate to the outside temperature. Rather, a cold tire is one that has not been driven on for at least three hours. When you drive, your tires get warmer, causing the air pressure within them to increase. Therefore, to get an accurate tire pressure reading, you must measure tire pressure when the tires are cold or compensate for the extra pressure in warm tires.

Steps for Maintaining Proper Tire Pressure

• Step 1: Locate the recommended tire pressure on the vehicle’s tire information placard, certification label, or in the owner’s manual

• Step 2: Record the tire pressure of all tires

• Step 3: If the tire pressure is too high in any of the tires, slowly release air by gently pressing on the tire valve stem with the edge of your tire gauge until you get to the correct pressure

• Step 4: If the tire pressure is too low, note the difference between the measured tire pressure and correct tire pressure. These “missing” pounds of pressure are what you will need to add

• Step 5: At a service station, add the missing pounds of air pressure to each tire that is under inflated

• Step 6: Check all the tires to make sure they have the same air pressure (except in cases in which the front and rear tires are supposed to have different amounts of pressure)

If you have been driving your vehicle and think that a tire is under-inflated, fill it to the recommended cold inflation pressure indicated on your vehicle’s tire information placard of certification label.

While your tire may still be slightly under-inflated due to the extra pounds of pressure in the warm tire, it is safer to drive with air pressure that is slightly lower than the vehicle manufacturer’s recommended cold inflation pressure than to drive with a significantly under-inflated tire.

Since this is a temporary fix, don’t forget to recheck and adjust the tire’s pressure when you can obtain a cold temperature reading.

Tire Size

To maintain tire safety, purchase new tires that are the same size as the Van's original tires or another size recommended by the chassis manufacturer.

Look at the tire information placard, the owner’s manual or the sidewall of the tire you are replacing to find this information. If you have any doubt about the correct size to choose, consult with a tire dealer.

Tire Tread

The tire tread provides the gripping action and traction that prevents your Van from slipping and sliding, especially when the road is wet or icy. In general, tires are not safe and should be replaced when the tread is worn down to 1/16 of an inch. Tires have built in tread wear indicators that let you know when it is time to replace your tires.

These indicators are raised sections spaced intermittently in the bottom of the tread grooves. When they appear "even" with the outside of the tread, it is time to replace your tires.

Another method of checking your tread depth is to place a penny in the tread with Lincolns head upside down and facing you. If you can see the top of Lincolns head, you are ready for new tires. If you are still unsure if your tires need to be replaced, contact your local professional tire dealer and have your tires inspected.

Tire Balance and Wheel Alignment

To avoid vibration or shaking of the vehicle when a tire rotates, the tire must be properly balanced. This balance is achieved by positioning weights on the wheel to counterbalance heavy spots on the wheel and-tire assembly.  

A wheel alignment adjusts the angles of the wheels so that they are positioned correctly relative to the vehicle’s frame. This adjustment maximizes the life of your tires. These adjustments require special equipment and should be performed by a qualified technician.

Tire Rotation

Rotating tires from front to back and from side to side can reduce irregular wear (for vehicles that have tires that are all the same size). Look in your tire manufacturer’s owner’s manual for information on how frequently the tires on your Van should be rotated and the best pattern for rotation.

Tire Repair

The proper repair of a punctured tire requires a plug for the hole and a patch for the area inside the tire surrounds the puncture hole. Punctures through the tread can be repaired if they are not too large, but punctures to the sidewall should not be repaired.

Tires must be removed from the rim to be properly inspected before being plugged and patched.

Information on Passenger Motorhome Tires

The image above provides an example summary of the sidewall markings on passenger vehicle tires.

For specific information regarding the tires on your Van  please refer to the tire manufacturer’s manual which is located in your Owners Information Package.

Vehicle Load Limits

Determining the load limits of a Van includes more than understanding the load limits of the tires alone. On a motorhome, there is a federal certification label that is affixed in the rear closet.  

The certification label will indicate the Vans gross vehicle weight rating (GVWR). This is the most weight the fully loaded vehicle can weigh. It will also provide the gross axle weight rating (GAWR).

Cargo Capacities

For Vans, cargo can be added to the vehicle, up to the maximum weight specified on the placard.

For motorized vehicles, the combined weight of passengers and cargo is provided as a single number. If fewer people are traveling, more cargo can be added.

If more people are involved, the weight of cargo must be reduced. In any case, remember: the total weight of a fully loaded vehicle, including passengers is not recommended to exceed the (GVWR).

Understanding this flexibility will allow you to make choices that fit your travel and camping needs. When loading your cargo, be sure it is distributed evenly to prevent overloading front to back and side to side.

Heavy items should be placed low as close to the axles positions as allowed. Too many items on one side may overload a tire.

The best way to know the actual weight of the Van is to weigh it at a certified public scale. Talk to your RV dealer to discuss the weighing methods needed to determine the various weights related to the Van. This would include weights for the following: axles, wheels, hitch and total weight.

How Overloading Affects your Van and Tires

The results of overloading can have serious consequences for passenger safety. Too much weight on your Vans suspension system can cause:

• Spring issues
• Shock absorber issues
• Brake failure
• Handling or steering problems
• Irregular tire wear
• Tire failure
• Other serious damage

Tire Safety Tips

Preventing tire damage:

Slow down if you have to go over a pothole or other objects in the road

Do not run over curbs or other foreign objects in the roadway, and try not to strike the curb when turning corners or when parking

Tire safety checklist:

Check the tire pressure regularly (at least once a month), this check should also include the spare tire

Inspect tires for uneven wear pattern on the tread, cracks, foreign objects or other signs of wear or trauma

Remove bits of glass or foreign objects wedged in the tire tread. (Use caution when removing such debris as to not cause personal injury).

Make sure your tire valves have valve caps

Check tire pressure before, during, and after a long trip

DO NOT overload your vehicle. Check the tire information and loading placard or tire manufacturer’s owner’s manual for the maximum recommended load for the Van

Section Two:

Tire Pressure

Correct tire inflation pressure is essential to maximizing the life of your tires and assuring the safety of the Van and its occupants. Driving with tires that are not correctly inflated for the load of the Van is dangerous and may cause premature wear, tire damage and/or loss of control of the Van.

An under inflated tire will build up excessive heat that may actually approach the vulcanization temperature of the rubber and lead to tread separation and/or disintegration of the tire.

Under inflated tires will also cause poor handling of the Van, rapid and/or irregular tire wear and an increase in rolling resistance of the Van which, in turn produces a decrease in fuel economy of operation.  

An over inflated tire will reduce the tire's "footprint" (i.e., its actual contact with the road); thus reducing traction, braking capacity and handling of the Van.

A tire that is over inflated for the load that it is carrying will also contribute to a harsh ride, uneven tire wear and the tire itself will be more susceptible to impact damage.

Maintaining correct tire pressure for each loaded wheel position on the Van is critically important and must be a part of regular Van maintenance.

Tire Maximum Load Rating

Federal law requires that the maximum load rating be molded into the sidewall of the tire. If you look at a tire sidewall, you may see some "typical" information such as:

Max. Load Single 2,880 Lbs. at 61 PSI cold

Max Load Dual 2,470 Lbs. at 61 PSI cold

The maximum load allowed for the size tire and load rating and the minimum cold air inflation pressure needed to carry that stated maximum load are noted on the tire. Using less air pressure would reduce the load carrying capacity of the tire.

The amount of air pressure you need depends on the weight of the fully loaded motorhome. You cannot determine the correct air inflation pressure, unless you know the actual weights of the motorhome.

Frequency of Checking Tire Inflation Pressures

When you have determined the "correct" tire inflation pressures for each of the Van tires and inflated the tires under "cold" conditions, meaning the tires haven't been driven for more than one mile, then the air pressures in the tires should be periodically checked to make sure that they keep their proper pressure.  

It is recommended that tire pressures be checked at least once a month or preferably every two weeks and before any major trip.

On long trips, the tires should be checked every "drive" morning. On short trips (a day or less), the tires should be checked before one departs on the trip and again before one returns home.

Check tire pressures when they are "cold"; that is tires haven't been driven at all or at most, less than one mile before being measured. In this manner, the tire pressure has not been increased by the heating associated with tire sidewall and tread flexure associated with traveling.

If you check tires that are warm or hot, remember that they will necessarily read higher than normal. Do not "bleed" these tires down to "cold pressure" readings as they will probably be under inflated when they are actually cool. Do not make any adjustments to tire pressures when the tires are warm or hot, if such can be avoided.

To make these tire pressure measurements, it is recommended that you purchase a high quality, truck tire air gauge which has an angled dual head. This type of gauge allows you to check inflation pressures of both the inner dual wheel which has the valve stem pointing towards one and on the outer wheel which has the valve stem pointing away from one. Pressure sealing valve caps should always be used to protect the valve stems and prevent air from escaping from the valve stems.

Tire Wear, Balance and Wheel Alignment

In addition to tire inflation considerations, the tires should also be periodically examined for other types of normal "wear and tear". If installed and maintained properly, all tires mounted on the Van should wear in a smooth and even pattern.

If the tires begin to show irregular wear patterns and the Van alignment is still correct, then sometimes having the tires rotated and changing their wheel position will allow the tires to wear evenly. Check the chassis manufacturer (Mercedes Benz) and its literature in the Owners Information Package for particulars on maintaining proper wheel alignment.

Tire Cleaning

Proper cleaning of the tires will assure maximum years of service. A soft brush and a normal mild soap should be used to clean the tires. Use care in applying any tire "dressing" product as these contain petroleum derivatives, alcohol or silicones which may cause deterioration of the rubber. This could lead to cracking and accelerate the aging process. In many instances it isn’t the actual dressing itself, but the reaction of the product with the antioxidant in the tire. Heat can compound this problem also.