Airstream 390 - Manual (Page 35)

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CAMPING
Extended Stay
Making a long trip is not very different from making a weekend excursion. Since every-
thing you need is right at hand, you are at home wherever you go. When packing for
an extended trip, take everything you need, but only what you need. Some models are
equipped with Hydraulic Leveling Jacks that can be deployed. Complete instructions
are included with the Owners Packet. Be sure to read the directions completely prior
to operating the jacks.
When you plan to stay in the same place for several days, weeks or months, you will
want your motorhome to be as level as possible. Check the attitude with a small spirit
level set on the inside work counter. If a correction is necessary, then you must first
level from side to side. This can be done most easily by driving up a small ramp con-
sisting of 2” x 6” boards tapered at both ends. WE DO NOT RECOMMEND PLACING
TIRES IN A HOLE FOR LEVELING.
Campground Setup
Hook Up to Water by attaching a ½” minimum high-pressure water hose to the city
water service, or the hose from the water reel if so equipped.
The 110-volt power cord is an electrically operated cord reel in the first compartment
located behind the roadside rear wheels. Turning the switch to “out” will extend the
power cord so it can be plugged into City Power Service.
When you stay for extended periods where electric or water hookups are not avail-
able, you must make regular checks on the condition of your 12-volt battery and the
contents of your water tank. Carry drinking water in a clean bucket to refill your tank.
When your waste tank nears capacity, move your motorhome to a dumping location.
WARNING : If adapters are required make sure the polarity is correct
and the “ground” function is not lost.
A Cable TV and Telephone Hookup is located on the roadside power cord compart-
ment of the motorhome. It is already wired into the existing system, so the exterior
connection is all that is required. An exterior TV outlet w/12-V outlet and a 110-V outlet
are in the lower compartment in front of the curbside rear wheel.
To use the Generator you simply start it. All switching is done automatically. The gen-
erator can be started either from your interior monitor panel, armrest switch, bedroom
switch, or the switch on the generator itself. It is easier on your generator and appli-
ances if you’ll allow the generator to reach its normal operating speed (about a minute)
prior to applying heavy current loads.
WARNING : The escape windows(s) are identified by their red release
handles. Pull red handle toward window center. Push out on the glass and it will
swing clear. The window operation should be checked each trip and the latches
lubricated with WD-40 or equivalent every six months. Do not parked in a manner
that would prevent the escape windows from opening or block an emergency
exit route.
Hook your Waste Drain Hose into the Sewer Disposal Facility and attach to the
drain outlet in your motorhome. For details on this procedure see Drain and Waste
System Section.
Turn on the gas supply and light the oven pilot. Lighting a top range burner to bleed
any air from the system will make it easier to start other appliances.
The range exhaust fan has an exterior door that must be unlatched to be effective.
You will see the two small twist latches if you look at the fan from outside the motor
home. In most circumstances you can leave the door unlatched. During storage and
adverse weather conditions, latching the door is recommended.