02 Safety Instructions

Safety Considerations

Before using your motorhome, especially for the first time or after a long period of non-use, read all the instructions in the Owner’s Manual and the chassis-manufacturer’s manual thoroughly.

There are several safety considerations that you must be aware of and follow while your Van is in motion. These safety considerations, as well as others meant to preclude any damage to the Van, are listed in this chapter. Besides the driver, it would be helpful for the passengers to be familiar with these safety considerations and precautions too; See below:

General Warnings

In general, several “common-sense” safety precautions must be taken every time the motorcoach is to be used on the road. These precautions include:

• Only seats with seat belts must be used while the motorcoach is in motion; the seat belts should be worn by all people (driver and passengers) in the motorcoach at that time.
• While the motorcoach is moving, lock all seats in the forward-facing position to provide maximum safety for the users.
• While the motorcoach is moving, no one (e.g., young children) inside should ever stand or kneel on the seats.
• In most states, it is the law that seat belts must be used (fastened snugly about the chest and hip areas), anytime the motorcoach is in motion, to provide desired protection in the event of a crash.
• Any fire extinguishers must be inspected monthly to ensure that each extinguisher is properly charged and ready for operation.
• Any smoke and/or carbon monoxide (CO)/liquid propane (LP) alarms must be regularly inspected and tested. If being used for the first time, the smoke and/or CO/LP alarm must be properly activated and fresh batteries installed before the motorcoach is placed into service. Never sleep in a motorcoach not having functional smoke and/or CO/LP alarms.
• While the motorcoach is moving, the sleeping facilities are not to be used.
• Be sure to be familiar with all emergency exits (doors, emergency window). Do not use the emergency window as a routine exit; this is strictly to be used for emergency purposes only.
• Movement inside the motorcoach should be minimized while the motorcoach is in motion.
• Never leave the driver’s seat unattended while the motorcoach is in motion.

Pre-Departure Checklist

For your continued safety and convenience, the following is a representative “checklist” designed to ensure your safety while driving:

• ✓ Clean all windows, mirrors, and light lenses (front, back, and sides) to ensure that you can “see” and “be seen.”
• ✓ Reposition any mirrors or other fixtures to provide an unobstructed view (front, back, and sides) from the driver’s seat.
• ✓ Remove or secure all loose fixtures (e.g., awnings, flags, antennas, portable lights) to keep them from falling from the Van when the vehicle is in motion.
• ✓ Make a “walk-around” visual inspection of the Van to note any irregularities (e.g., loose trim) or problems (e.g., low tires); correct noted problems accordingly.
• ✓ Check all exterior storage-compartment doors to make sure they are properly latched. If need be, check inside all exterior compartments to make sure that all cargo and equipment are properly secured so that they do not work loose and become hazards during sudden starts and stops.
• ✓ Check the tires for proper inflation (i.e., cold-inflation pressure: 50 psig). If the Tiffin GH1 has not been used recently, make sure that the “cold-inflation” pressure is maintained. If the Van has recently been used, make sure that the “hot inflation” pressure (see the tire-manufacturer’s literature to determine appropriate “hot inflation” pressure) is maintained on each axle. Not all axles require the same tire pressure.
• ✓ Examine wheel lug nuts to ensure their proper tightness. If any lug nuts are found to be loose, first check the fit of the wheel to the hub to make sure the wheel is mounted properly, which would produce a “wobbly” wheel when the Van is in motion, and then tighten the lug nuts.
• ✓ Check all fluid levels (e.g., engine oil, transmission fluid, coolant, power-steering fluid, brake fluid, battery fluid [if applicable], windshield-washer solvent) to ensure that correct levels are maintained. Fill any low reservoirs, as needed.
• ✓ DO NOT SUBSTITUTE any other fluids for specified oils, transmission fluid, brake fluid, or other hydraulic fluids—substitutions are not acceptable and can void warranties.
• ✓ Before starting the motorhome engine, make sure all lines (e.g., water, sewer) and electrical power cords are disconnected and properly stowed.
• ✓ After entering the motorhome, make sure that electrical actuated retractable step has properly closed to its stowage position. Do not drive with the step extended, doing so may cause damage to the motorhome.
• ✓ Check visually that all stabilizer legs are retracted before operation of the motorhome.

Driving Safety

Various adjustments must be made to ensure the driver’s comfort and the safety of the motorcoach (Figure 2-1) before starting and moving the motorhome; these include:

• Do not attempt to adjust the driver’s seat while the vehicle is moving.
• Do not adjust the tilt steering while the vehicle is moving.
• The driver must be familiar with all gauges, instruments, switches, and indicators on the instrument panel before driving.
• Do not operate the cruise-control function during any extreme weather situations (e.g., snow, ice, sleet, heavy rain), or when road conditions are hazardous (icy, snowy, winding roads, city traffic), when a constant speed of the motorcoach is not possible, or if traffic conditions do not warrant such.
• Avoid driving the motorcoach through any standing water. If deep enough, such water can wet the brake pads and cause fading of the brakes (i.e., loss of braking power) and lead to excessive sliding or pulling to one side or the other.
• Know the limits of operation of the motorhome. Do not try to achieve excessive speeds, climb overly steep hills, traverse overly long grades, attempt to use as an "off-the-road" (OTR), rapidly switch lanes, or rapidly accelerate or decelerate the motorhome. When in doubt about the handling characteristics of the motorhome, consult your chassis manual for information.
• The solar or blackout shade is operated by using a switch on the driver’s console. Depress the switch to lower or raise the shade. On the Wayfarer, the switch is labeled SOLAR SHADE or NIGHT SHADE. The time delay switch must be held for a few seconds before it is activated.
• NEVER drive the vehicle with a slide-out room extended.

 

Fuels for the Motorhome

    

Your motorcoach is designed to use low sulfur fuel only for the engine used in the routine operation of the motorcoach—these require prudent and safe handling to ensure safety of the motorcoach and its occupants; namely:

• • Anytime the motor fuel is to be filled, turn OFF the motorcoach engine, all pilot lights, and appliances.
• • DO NOT SMOKE when refilling the fuel tank.
• • NEVER use an open flame to test for LP gas leaks or to examine the fluid levels in the fuel tanks.
• • After filling any LP system, immediately replace and secure all protective covers and caps.
• • After closing the LP valve, close and securely latch the LP door to prevent unintentional access or damage.
• • NEVER connect natural gas to the LP gas system—LP gas and natural gas are not interchangeable.
• • When lighting range burners, do not turn burner controls ON and allow the gas to escape before lighting.
• • NEVER use any other “burning” equipment (e.g., charcoal grills, wood stoves, butane lights, propane lights) inside the motorcoach. Doing so might cause fires and/or asphyxiation.

  

 

Liquid Propane (LP) Gas System

Check the propane gas system for leaks yearly or as necessary.

If you smell propane within the motorcoach, quickly perform the following:

• • Extinguish any open flames, pilot lights, and all smoking materials. • Do not touch electrical switches.
• • Do not touch electrical switches.
• • Shut off the gas supply at the tank valve or gas supply connection. • Open doors, windows, and other ventilating openings.
• • Open doors, windows, and other ventilating openings.
• • Leave the area until the odor clears.
• • Alert campground personnel (If Necessary) and call for Fire/Rescue to check out the motorhome and give the all clear.
• • Have the propane system checked and leakage source corrected immediately.

  A WARNING label such as the following is located near the LP gas container.

Any overfilling of the LP gas containers can result in uncontrolled gas flow—a prime condition for a fire or explosion.

The LP container (Figure 2-3) must be filled to only 80 percent of its capacity; the remainder of the cylinder space is an air space to contain expansion of the liquid when subjected to varying ambient-temperature conditions.

Filling in excess of 80 percent of the liquid volume of the container reduces the air space and, thus, creates a condition for possible overpressurization of the container.

All LP appliances in your motorcoach have been approved for use in motorcoaches by a nationally recognized testing laboratory (i.e., UL and CSA certified). When properly used, LP gas is a clean-burning fuel, which can be dependably used. In actuality, the LP container contains liquid propane under high pressure.

The liquid, when it passes through the tank valve to a lower pressure, vaporizes into a gas, and then passes through a regulator to maintain a constant pressure. This gas, then, is the actual fuel distributed through the LP-gas manifold system to the LP-based appliances used in your motorhome.

LP-appliance lighting problems are typically caused by an improperly adjusted gas regulator. NEVER attempt to adjust or reset the gas regulator yourself. An authorized service technician is needed to make these adjustments. As a good preventive-maintenance activity, the regulator should be checked annually by a service technician and before every extended trip.

Even though the LP-gas system is leak-checked and verified at the factory at the time of manufacture, normal usage (travel vibrations, etc.) could loosen the fittings. Consequently, it is wise to check the gas fittings periodically for leak tightness.

You can wipe some leak-detector solution (e.g., a “liquid-soap”-like solution) on all the fittings, connections, and junctures when the system is under pressure. Should there be any leaks, small bubbles will appear at any leak sites.

Generally, loose fittings can be tightened to stop the leaks. If this process does not work, then you must shut off the main gas valve at the LP cylinders and immediately consult an authorized service technician to determine what repairs are necessary. Leaks may also be detected by noting a sulphurous odor (i.e., rotten eggs). DO NOT search for a leak by using a match or open flame.

 

LP Gas Regulator

The LP gas regulator (Figure 2-4) is the most critical element of the LP-gas distribution system. The regulator converts the high-pressure LP gas from the tank into a reduced-pressure LP-gas supply suitable for use in the various appliances in the motorhome.

You must regularly inspect the regulator system. If any damage or corrosion is noted, contact an authorized service technician to inspect and repair or replace the regulator.

Do not attempt to adjust the regulator yourself; the regulator has been pre-set at the factory. Only a qualified LP service technician using specialized equipment should adjust the regulator.

LP Distribution System

The primary LP distribution system in the motorhome is a steel manifold located underneath the motorhome. The secondary distribution lines running from this main distribution system are usually reinforced rubber supply lines.

.

If any of the gas lines break, do not attempt to splice them—always run new lines to maintain the safety of the motor home. It is strongly recommended that only qualified service technicians perform this work.

Remember, the main valve at the LP gas tank must be closed whenever any gas appliance is to be installed, removed, or serviced—this process prevents LP gas leakage which could result in a possible harmful explosion. If the odor of LP gas is ever detected, immediately discontinue use of any gas appliances and seek the services of a qualified service technician.

 

Recommended Practices

The following practices are recommended to ensure continued safety and reliability of the LP gas system. These are representative, and not exhaustive. In all cases, use common sense in the use of the LP system:

• • Visually inspect the LP fill valve before any refueling operation for foreign materials or debris; remove, as necessary, to ensure a leak-tight connection.
• • Before any refueling operation of the LP gas system, shut off all the pilot lights.
• • NEVER, under any circumstances, check for LP gas leaks with any type of open flame; doing so would probably cause an explosion and subsequent fire.
• • Periodically visually inspect the entire propane (LP) gas distribution system; do so at leat annually and/or before any major trips in your motorhome.

Should problems be noted, seek the services of a qualified service technician to make necessary repairs and perform any maintenance.

Carbon Monoxide Warning

A properly maintained engine exhaust and ventilation system is the best way to protect against carbon monoxide’s entry into the vehicle. Tiffin Motor Homes recommends that the exhaust system and body be inspected by a qualified motorhome service center:

• Each time the vehicle is serviced for an oil change.
• Whenever a change in the sound of the exhaust system is noticed.
• Whenever the exhaust system, underbody, or rear of the vehicle is damaged.

To allow proper operation of the vehicle’s ventilation system, keep the front ventilation inlet grill clear of obstructions at all times.

Your motorhome is equipped with a Carbon Monoxide alarm, which has a sensor that is designed to detect carbon monoxide gas fumes resulting from incomplete combustion of fuel. It will detect carbon monoxide gas from any combustion source such as from the furnace, oven/ range, water heater, refrigerator, chassis engine and generator engine.

CO/LP Gas Detector

Since propane (LP) gas is denser than air, the propane (LP) gas will naturally settle to the lowest point in an enclosed space. In the motorhome, this would be the floor.

Because of this, the CO/LP gas detector (Figure 22.1) is necessarily mounted close to the floor.

To activate the CO/LP gas sensor on this detector for the first time, remove the sensor activation strip, if this was not performed during the pre-delivery inspection.

If the (CO) alarm persists in re-arming and continues to give further alarms, ventilate the motorhome by opening doors and windows and then check for propane (LP) gas leaks. If the leak cannot be readily found SAFELY, then close the main valve to the propane (LP) tank and turn "OFF" all gas appliances.

If necessary, contact the local Fire/Emergency services to check out the motorhome and give the all clear. Once done, take the motorhome to a qualified service technician after the ventilation process is concluded and the doors and windows can be shut safely.

This single compact system provides a powerful combined alarm that detects both Carbon Monoxide (CO) and explosive gases Propane (LP) as well as Methane (Natural Gas). This detector uses the latest microprocessor technology combined with two electronic self-cleaning sensors that operate independently of each other. This combined unit can detect both CO and explosive gases simultaneously.

Carbon monoxide (CO), is a colorless, odorless, tasteless gas which if inhaled, bonds to the hemoglobin in the red blood cells and thus drastically reduces or blocks the transfer of oxygen from the lungs to the rest of the body.

In sufficient concentrations, carbon monoxide (CO) kills by asphyxiation. In lesser amounts, carbon monoxide (CO) makes the victim groggy, lethargic and unable to think clearly or quickly.

Carbon Monoxide (CO) is one of the products of combustion for many materials including petroleum based products (e.g., gasoline, diesel fuel, propane and butane among others). Since many of the appliances and the engines associated with the motorhome produce Carbon Monoxide (CO) in their normal operations, it is necessary to assure that Carbon Monoxide (CO) levels do not rise to dangerous levels within the motorhome. In sufficiently high concentrations, Carbon Monoxide (CO) can cause death within minutes.

The most susceptible people to Carbon Monoxide (CO) poisoning are unborn babies, small children, pregnant women, senior citizens and people with cardiovascular or respiratory illnesses.

Consequently it is prudent to check the Carbon Monoxide (CO) monitor regularly for normal operation and to remain aware of the symptoms of Carbon Monoxide (CO) poisoning which include dizziness, nausea and vomiting. Muscular twitching, throbbing in the templates, incoherent thinking and speech, weakness, sleepiness and intense headaches are other signs of Carbon Monoxide (CO) poisoning.

Should any of these symptoms be experienced in the motorhome, you should immediately evacuate the motorhome and seek professional medical attention. Shut down the motorhome and do not attempt to operate it again until the source(s) of the Carbon Monoxide (CO) are secured and fixed.

 

Fire Safety

As with any enclosed system containing the three required conditions for fire (i.e., combustible materials, oxygen, and ignition sources), there will exist the possibility of fire inside the Van.

Tiffin Motor Homes has taken every precaution and design practice to minimize or negate this possibility, but the final determination rests with the owner and user of the Van.

Hence, the owners, users, and their guests must be aware of basic fire-safety practices and procedures, and those particular features that Tiffin Motor Homes has provided for fire safety.

Fire Extinguisher

The Wayfarer is equipped with a fire extinguisher located in the entrance door stairwell (Figure 2-6) The extinguisher is rated for both Class B and C (i.e., grease, gasoline, diesel fuel, flammable liquids and electrical). Read and understand the accompanying owner’s manual on that extinguisher (found in your Owner’s Information Package) and remember the location of the extinguisher. These types of fire extinguishers are pressurized, mechanical devices and require that appropriate care be used in their safe storage and use. The owner’s manual will provide necessary guidance for the proper storage, handling, and use of the extinguishers. Prudent preventive maintenance suggests monthly inspection of any fire extinguisher to assure that it is sufficiently pressurized (i.e., the needle on the gauge is in the “normal” zone) and that the mechanical components are not blocked in any way.

 

Safety

DO NOT test a fire extinguisher by partially discharging the unit—this will cause a loss of pressure and might lodge some fire-retardant materials in the valve mechanism and cause the extinguisher to continue to vent slowly down to zero pressure. If an extinguisher is ever partially used, continue its use until the unit is completely discharged. Then, have the fire extinguisher fully recharged at an appropriate service center (call any fire department for information on having an extinguisher recharged in that particular locality). DO NOT wait to recharge an empty fire extinguisher; you will never know when it might be needed. Should a fire occur inside or around the Van, evacuate the Van quickly and calmly—do not panic. In the event of heavy smoke or extensive flames, keep low (crawl if you must), and make your way to the nearest exit (door, emergency window) and leave. If the fire involves a fuel source (e.g., diesel fuel, LP gas), consider the probability of an explosion and move sufficiently far away to minimize personal harm. If possible, immediately place a call to the local fire department (or ask someone nearby to do so) to report the fire. Consider the cause and the consequences of the fire and the risks associated with possibly fighting the fire yourself before trying to extinguish it. DO NOT expose yourself or others to unnecessary danger.

Smoke Detector

The Wayfarer motorhome is equipped with a battery operated smoke detector (Figure 2-7), located on the ceiling in the living area of the motorhome. The smoke detector should be tested on a weekly basis, before each trip and after any period of storage of the motorhome.

If a low-battery condition is noted or the alarm “chirps” to indicate a low-battery condition, immediately replace the battery.

It is suggested that you keep replacement batteries in the motorhome for any in transit replacements so that the smoke alarms capabilities are never compromised.

DO NOT disable the smoke detector for any transient, false alarm (e.g., cooking smoke, dusty furnace, tobacco smoke). Ventilate the Van with fresh air and the alarm will reset on its own.

Electrical

• Careless handling of electrical components can be fatal. Never touch or use electrical components or appliances while feet are bare, hands are wet, or standing in water.
• Improper grounding of the vehicle can cause personal injury.
• Do not attach an extension cord to the utility power cord.
• Do not use any electrical device that has had the ground pin removed.
• Avoid overloading electrical circuits. Replace fuses or circuit breakers with those of the same size and amperage rating only. NEVER use a higher rated fuse or breaker.

Loading

• Store or secure all loose items inside the motorcoach before traveling. Possible overlooked items such as canned goods or small appliances on the countertop, cooking pans on the range, or freestanding furniture can become dangerous projectiles during a sudden stop.
• Be aware of GVWR, GAWR, and individual load limit on each tire or set of duals.
• Never load the Van in excess of the gross vehicle weight rating or the gross axle weight rating for either axle.

Maintenance

• Do not remove the radiator cap while the engine and radiator are still hot. Always check the coolant level visually using the see-through coolant reservoir.
• NEVER get beneath a vehicle that is held up by a jack only.
• Do not mix different construction types of tires on the vehicle. Replace tires with the exact size, type, and load range.

Emergency Exits

In the living areas of the motorhome, there are emergency exit windows (Figure 2-8 and 2-9) These windows are designed for emergency exits when it is not practical to exit by the door, which also is an emergency exit - in the front of the motorhome. These windows are readily noticeable by their red handles and the red “EXIT” label on the windows.

 

Parking Procedures

To park the motorhome in any unfamiliar terrain, examine the site for surface irregularities, slopes, inclines or any other items such as stumps, rocks external connections for power/water/ sewage. Also examine the area immediately above the parking site for obstructions like tree branches, limbs, signs or overhead wiring.

If the motorhome is to be backed into the parking site, try to have that site be on the driver’s lefthand side, as this will allow the driver to watch the rear of the motorhome. Back up slowly and use the side mirrors and the back-up camera as a guide or, better yet, have another person outside providing guidance to help park the motorhome.

When the motorhome is finally situated, shift the transmission into park, set the chassis parking brake and then turn"OFF" the engine. Activate the hydraulic leveling system to level and stabilize the motorhome. (Please refer to section 10 for further information on the hydraulic leveling system).

If the motorhome is to powered externally, connect the 120 VAC power to the motorhome. Turn "ON" the propane (LP) gas valve at the propane (LP) tank. Connect the fresh water supply and sanitize the water systems as needed.

Connect the waste drain hose to the external sewer hookup. Start the refrigerator, water heater and furnace as needed. Light the oven pilot light when needed. (Please refer to the appropriate sections of this owner's manual for further direction on completing these procedures).

Certain appliances such as the refrigerator will not work properly if the motorhome is not level. Be sure to complete the motorhome leveling process before activating any of the appliances. (Please refer to section 10 for further information on leveling of the motorhome).

 

Towing Hitch

The Wayfarer motorhome is fully capable of towing a typical motor vehicle, trailer.

The motorhome is equipped with a Class 2; 5,000 Pound towing hitch and associated 7-Pin wiring connector (Figure 2-10).

The wiring connector features a 7-pin connector. The tongue weight is not to exceed 10 percent of the towing capacity. If it is desired to connect a trailer brake actuator, the plug for the actuator is located to the left of the steering column under the dash.

The motorhome is capable of towing light loads and instructions are found in the chassis-manufacturer’s literature in the Owner’s Information Package provided with the Wayfarer.

The total weight of the motorhome and the towed vehicle by the motorhome must not exceed the Gross Combined Weight Rating (GCWR). When the motorhome is being weighed, remember to account for the driver, and all passengers occupying the motorhome.

Any vehicle to be towed by the Wayfarer motorhome should have adequate active braking. As noted, the wiring connector provided is a standard seven pin connector.

Tiffin Motorhomes does not recommend using any type of hydraulic towing lift that attaches to the rear of the motorhome. These hydraulic towing lifts are used to carry items such as motorcycles, scooters, golf carts etc.