15 Windows, Awnings, Vents, and Doors
Windows
Sliding windows (Figure 16-1) are custom built for the motorhome and allow easy sliding access to open the coach to fresh outside air.
There might also be a reflective coating on the windows to reflect back a portion of the sunlight to reduce the heating of the motorhome interior and to reduce the effects of the sun’s “bleaching” of interior fabrics (curtains, upholstery).
Sunshades on both the driver and passenger’s sides can be deployed and moved at any time.
Windows throughout the coach are designated as “EXIT” windows in the event of an emergency.
To help make the windows slide more easily, we recommend using Plexus Plastic Cleaner, which can be purchased through the Tiffin Motor Homes Service Department.
Awnings
Your Phaeton model coach is equipped with Power Patio Girard Awnings, powered by 12 VDC. Figure 16-2 shows the optional roof awning. To control these awnings, first locate the control switch located in the driver side overhead cabinet. To extend or retract the awnings you will need to press the corresponding button on the Girard control switch (Figure 16-3).
A vertical line button located between the UP and DOWN buttons, allows you to stop the awning while it is extending or retracting in order to reach desired location. The awnings also house LEDs that are operated by the LED ON/OFF buttons of the Girard switch. To retract the awning and turn off the awning LEDs, press the CLOSE/OFF button located on the control switch.
| NOTE: The awnings will not work with the ignition on. Turning the ignition ON when the awnings are out will cause the awnings to automatically retract but will leave the awning LEDs on. In order to turn these LEDs off, turn the ignition to the OFF position and then turn the LED off through the Girard control switch. These actions are part of the ignition lockout safety feature so that the coach will not travel with the awnings extended. |
In case of awning power failure or to manually close the awning:
- The Girard GG750 has a manual override to close the awning in case of power failures.
- Remove the endcap opposite the motor, by removing the 3 Philips head screws.
- Using a 13mm wrench, turn the square manual override shaft in order to close the awning, see Figure below. NOTE: The manual override is one-way, it can only be used to close the awning.
- Replace endcap using the 3 Philips head screws.
- Figure below is showing a right hand motor version of the GG750. If your coach is equipped with a left hand version, the manual override will be on the opposite side.
- Once power is restored, the awning will resume normal operation.
| NOTE: This procedure can also be used to manually retract the Over the Door Awning. |
Vents
The kitchen and bathroom are both equipped with a 12 VDC exhaust vent (Figure 16-4). The fans are controlled by the fan tab on the Spyder Controls System, as well as on the six-button switch located in the rear bath.
Keyless Lock
The Phaeton is equipped with keyless lock entry. (Figure 15-5). The keyless lock entry is essentially a numeric combination lock.
This type of lock for the motorhome enables the owner to come and go without having to worry about whether the “house key” was with the owner or not. The keyless lock drastically reduces the inadvertent situation of being “locked out of one’s home” while on the road.
Also included with the keyless entry is a key fob that will lock and unlock the entrance door as well as compartment doors. The headlights and clearance lights will flash, indicating that the doors are locked when pressing the lock button on the key fob. When pressing “unlock,” the porch lights will be activated for 30 seconds.
As long as you remember the appropriate combination (settable by the owner to permit optimal remembering of a preferred numerical combination), you should never be “locked out” of the motorhome under any circumstances.
Complete directions for setting your unique keyless lock combination can be found in the Owner’s Information Package.
As a further aid for nighttime access to the motorhome, the handrail by the front door is made of transparent acrylic, which is lighted at night. This “night light” handrail permits the motorhome owner easy and safe access to the motorhome by providing a firm, easily seen handhold whenever entering or exiting.
Doors
The primary entrance door to the motorhome has a key lock and a dead bolt for additional security. When the door is fully opened, the door hinge automatically holds the door in an OPEN position.
In addition, a screen door allows increased air circulation when the entrance door is open.
