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Page 1: Topaz 146-4589-OCT06 3352 Topaz.pdf · This manual is intended to be a guideline. This manual despite our best efforts should not be considered comprehensive in all details. We invite
Page 2: Topaz 146-4589-OCT06 3352 Topaz.pdf · This manual is intended to be a guideline. This manual despite our best efforts should not be considered comprehensive in all details. We invite

Triple ERecreational Vehicles

301 Roblin Blvd., Box 1230Winkler, ManitobaCanada R6W 4C4Tel: (204) 325-4361Fax: (204) 325-5241

NOTE

Product improvement is a continuing process atTriple E Recreational Vehicles. Thus, we reservethe right to change specifications, operatinginstructions, standards and options on any andall products without prior notice. Errors andomissions excepted. The diagrams includedwere current at the time of printing.

PART NUMBER 146-4589-OCT06

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Printed in Canada

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FORWARD

A WORD TO TRAVEL TRAILER AND FIFTHWHEEL OWNERSWelcome to the growing number of discerningpeople who own and operate a Triple E recreationalvehicle.

Our company takes great pride in the quality andexcellence that the Triple E name represents. Wehave sought to anticipate your needs and desireswith respect to safety, convenience, styling, andengineering.

We appreciate having you as our customer and haveprovided this manual and various componentmanuals to introduce you to the many features ofyour new Recreational Vehicle. Each person usingthe Recreational Vehicle should take time to readthis manual before operation. It will help you tobetter understand the many built-in operationalfeatures of this recreation vehicle. Talk to yourdealer if you have any questions about your unit.

We hope you will enjoy your new RecreationalVehicle, and we wish you pleasant and carefreedriving.

Failure to read the manual completely andthoroughly may lessen your total enjoyableexperience.

WARNING

IMPORTANT

Modifications that are not approved by Triple Emay void the warranty and transferresponsibility for the changes to the owner.

This manual is intended to be a guideline. This manualdespite our best efforts should not be consideredcomprehensive in all details. We invite you to use thismanual to help you learn the basics about your vehicle.The component operation instructions i.e. fridge,stove, etc. are incluced in the owner's informationpackage.

This vehicle is equipped with the latest systems,appliances and operational equipment.

The use of three way systems; 120V, 12V andpropane needs careful consideration as theavailability of energy in both the 12V and propanesystems has a limited capacity and volume. Duecaution should be applied and in case of doubt,clarification from the authorized Triple E dealer orour factory service department should be obtained.Do not modify the unit in any way.Unauthorized modification may impair thefunction or life of the vehicle and could lead toan accident.

INFORMATION AND SAFETY

Throughout the manual, certain instructions,procedures and information is emphasized with thewords IMPORTANT, CAUTION and WARNING.These key words denote the level of care that eachoperator should exercise on mechanical and safetyitems.

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TABLE OF CONTENTSSECTION DESCRIPTION PAGE SECTION DESCRIPTION PAGE

1 Introduction ............................................... 1-11.1 Operator's Manuals ......................... 1-11.2 Information Package ....................... 1-11.3 Options and Equipment .................. 1-11.4 Keys ............................................... 1-11.5 Trailer Labeling Definitions .............. 1-31.6 Exterior Feature Identification .......... 1-41.7 Service Assistance ......................... 1-61.8 Reporting Safety Defects ................ 1-61.9 Traveling Comfort ............................ 1-6

2 Safety ......................................................... 2-12.1 General Safety ................................ 2-12.2 Tire Safety ...................................... 2.22.3 Driving Safety .................................. 2-82.4 Fuel (Motor and LP Gas) ................. 2-82.5 Asphyxiation ................................... 2-92.6 Formaldehyde ................................. 2-92.7 LP Gas Leaks ................................. 2-92.8 Alarms .......................................... 2-102.9 Electrical ...................................... 2-102.10 Loose Components ....................... 2-112.11 Maintenance ................................. 2-112.12 Emergency Exits .......................... 2-11

3 Preparation ................................................ 3-13.1 Trailer Preparation .......................... 3-1

3.1.1 Keys ............................................... 3-13.1.2 Trailer Weights................................ 3-13.1.3 Tow Vehicle .................................... 3-2

4 Trailer Use .................................................. 4-14.1 Hooking Up/Unhooking ................... 4-1

4.1.1 Hooking Up/UnhookingConventional Trailer ........................ 4-1

4.1.2 Hooking Up/UnhookingFifth Wheel Trailer ........................... 4-3

4.2 Trailer Brake System ...................... 4-54.3 Tongue/Hitch Weights ..................... 4-74.4 Trailer Loading ................................ 4-84.5 Electrical ........................................ 4-8

5 Traveling .................................................... 5-15.1 Pre-Trip Inspection and

Preparation ..................................... 5-15.2 Emergency Equipment Check List .. 5-25.3 Driving ............................................ 5-25.4 Parking ........................................... 5-55.5 Wheels/Tires .................................. 5-65.6 Backing Up ..................................... 5-7

5.7 Travel Tips....................................... 5-85.8 Quick Loading Check List ............... 5-95.9 Severe Weather Information .......... 5-10

6 Controls ...................................................... 6-16.1 Entry lighting .................................. 6-16.2 Entertainment System

(Optional) ........................................ 6-16.3 Refrigerator ..................................... 6-26.4 Light Switches ................................ 6-26.5 Comfort Control Center ................... 6-36.6 Heating System .............................. 6-36.7 Roof Vent ........................................ 6-46.8 Water Plumbing System ................. 6-5

6.8.1 Water Heater .................................. 6-56.8.2 Water Heater Bypass ..................... 6-66.8.3 Water Pump ................................... 6-66.8.4 Water System Access ................... 6-7

6.9 Discharge Valves ............................ 6-76.10 TV Antenna ..................................... 6-86.11 System Monitor .............................. 6-96.12 Microwave/Waterheater ................... 6-96.13 Cable TV ....................................... 6-106.14 Phone Jack ................................... 6-106.15 Satellite Prewire ............................ 6-106.16 Landing Gear ................................ 6-116.17 Stabilizer Jacks ............................ 6-116.18 Hitch Light .................................... 6-11

7 Home Use................................................... 7-17.1 Parking ........................................... 7-17.2 Trailer Leveling ............................... 7-27.3 Slide Out Room .............................. 7-4

7.3.1 Slide Out Room Operation .............. 7-47.3.2 Slide Out Room

Manual Operation ............................ 7-57.4 Slide Out Room Troubleshooting ..... 7-67.5 Prolonged Occupancy ..................... 7-6

8 Safety Equipment Operation .................... 8-18.1 Fire Prevention ............................... 8-1

8.1.1 Fire Safety Tips .............................. 8-18.1.2 Fire Extinguisher ............................. 8-2

8.2 Emergency Escape ........................ 8-38.3 Alarms ............................................ 8-4

8.3.1 LP Gas Alarm ................................. 8-48.3.2 Smoke Alarm .................................. 8-4

9 Electrical Systems ..................................... 9-1

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TABLE OF CONTENTSSECTION DESCRIPTION PAGE SECTION DESCRIPTION PAGE

9.1 120-Volt AC System ....................... 9-19.1.1 External Power Cord (Shoreline) ..... 9-19.1.2 120-Volt Circuit Breakers ................ 9-2

9.2 12-Volt DC System ......................... 9-29.2.1 Trailer Battery ................................. 9-29.2.2 12-Volt Circuit Fuses ...................... 9-39.2.3 Battery Maintenance ....................... 9-39.2.4 Battery Condition Meter .................. 9-5

9.3 Trailer Wiring Connector .................. 9-59.4 Electrical Schematic (Typical) ......... 9-69.5 Fuse Panels ................................... 9-7

9.5.1 12-Volt DC ...................................... 9-79.5.2 30 Amp AC ..................................... 9-7

10 Propane Gas System .............................. 10-110.1 Safe Use of LP Gas...................... 10-110.2 How LP Gas Works ...................... 10-110.3 Selecting Fuel Types .................... 10-210.4 LP Tank System ........................... 10-210.5 Refilling LP Tank ........................... 10-310.6 Air in the LP Tank ......................... 10-410.7 Travelling LP Gas .......................... 10-410.8 Regulator ...................................... 10-410.9 LP Gas Leaks ............................... 10-510.10 LP Gas Detector ........................... 10-5

11 Water/Plumbing System.......................... 11-111.1 Fresh Water System ..................... 11-1

11.1.1 Fresh Water Tank Filling ............... 11-111.1.2 Water Pump ................................. 11-111.1.3 Water Pump Switch ...................... 11-111.1.4 Water Pump Filter ........................ 11-211.1.5 Water System Access ................. 11-211.1.6 Water Pump Initial Start-Up .......... 11-211.1.7 Water Pump Troubleshooting ........ 11-311.1.8 Disinfection of Water Tank ............ 11-311.1.9 External Water Supply .................. 11-4

11.2 Waste Systems ............................ 11-511.2.1 Grey Water Waste Holding Tank .. 11-511.2.2 Black Water Waste HoldingTank .. 11-511.2.3 Dumping Holding Tanks ................ 11-611.2.4 Do's And Don'ts Holding Tanks ..... 11-711.2.5 Using On-Site Sewer Hook-Ups .... 11-711.2.6 Holding Tank Level Indicators ........ 11-811.2.7 Tank Capacities ............................ 11-8

11.3 Plumbing System Operation ......... 11-811.3.1 Water Heater ................................ 11-811.3.2 Toilet ............................................. 11-811.3.3 Shower ......................................... 11-8

11.4 Typical Plumbing Schematics/Drainage System .......................... 11-9

12 Appliances And Interior Features .......... 12-112.1 Refrigerator ................................... 12-1

12.1.1 Operating Instructions ................... 12-112.1.2 Operating Tips .............................. 12-112.1.3 Exterior Refridgerator Access ....... 12-2

12.2 Range And Oven .......................... 12-212.2.1 Lighting Burners ............................ 12-212.2.2 Safety Tips ................................... 12-312.2.3 Range Hood .................................. 12-312.2.4 Lighting Oven Pilot ....................... 12-312.2.5 Operating Oven Control ................ 12-412.2.6 Shut Down Instructions ................. 12-4

12.3 Microwave Oven ........................... 12-412.4 Monitor Panel ............................... 12-512.5 LP Gas Furnace ........................... 12-612.6 Roof Air Conditioners .................... 12-712.7 TV Antenna ................................... 12-712.8 Entertainment System .................. 12-812.9 Cable TV Hook-Ups ...................... 12-812.10 Sleeping Facilities ........................ 12-912.11 Fresh Water Toilet ...................... 12-1012.12 Entry Step .................................. 12-1112.13 Screen Windows ......................... 12-1112.14 Thermostatically Controlled

Ceiling Fan ................................. 12-1213 Care And Maintenance ........................... 13-1

13.1 Exterior ......................................... 13-113.2 Interior .......................................... 13-2

14 Storing Your RV ...................................... 14-115 Cold Temperature Storage ...................... 15-1

15.1 Water System Winterization ......... 15-115.2 De-Winterize Water Systems ........ 15-1

16 Warranty Policy ....................................... 16-117 Index ..................................................... 17-1

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TOPAZ

1 INTRODUCTIONCongratulations on your choice of a Triple E built Recreational Vehicle for your travelling and touring comfortand enjoyment. It utilizes the latest design features and manufacturing techniques to insure safe, efficientand trouble-free operation at all times.

1.1 OPERATOR'S MANUALSAll owners/operators should read, understand andfollow all instructions in this RV manual andmanuals for all auxiliary systems and appliances. Afew minutes spent reading the appropriate manualwill pay rich dividends in providing safe, efficient andtrouble-free operation. Refer to the appropriatemanual in the Owner's Information Package forauxiliary equipment and appliances operation andmaintenance instructions.

This manual covers all the systems, controls andoperations unique to this trailer. Always keep thepackage with the trailer for easy reference. Passthe package on to new operators or owners asappropriate for their information as well. Use theTable of Contents or Index to find specificinformation.

If more information is required or you do notunderstand something, please contact:

Your Triple E dealer orTriple E Recreational Vehicles301 Roblin Blvd., Box 1230Winkler, Manitoba CanadaR6W 4C4Tel: (204) 325-4361Fax: (204) 325-5241E-mail: [email protected]

1.2 INFORMATION PACKAGEAn information package is provided with eachvehicle and includes specific information on specificsystems, features and appliances including:1. Air Conditioning2. Converter3. Entertainment System4. General RV Operation5. Safety6. Floor and Counter Tops7. Plumbing Fixtures8. Roof and Side Walls9. Water Heater10. Fridge11. Furnace

1.3 OPTIONS AND EQUIPMENTYour RVis available in various sizes, models andfloor plans. The equipment, accessories andcomponents described in this manual may notnecessarily apply to your vehicle. Refer to thematerial provided in the Owner's InformationPackage for the detailed instructions unique to yourunit.

1.4 KEYSIt is a good idea to keep a record of all key codenumbers and keep them in a safe place - not in yourvehicle. Use the chart in this manual but make aduplicate copy to be stored elsewhere.

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TOPAZ

LABEL LOCATION

TRAILER WEIGHT INFORMATION- U.S.A. MODELS

TRAILER WEIGHT INFORMATION - CANADIAN MODELS

VEHICLE CERTIFICATION LABEL

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TOPAZ

1.6 TRAILER LABELING DEFINITIONSThese labels contain vehicle identification and other important reference information. The vehicle certifica-tion label is located on the exterior left-front corner of the trailer. Never remove or destroy this label.

1. Gross Vehicle Weight Rating (GVWR):The maximum permissible weight of this trailerwhen fully loaded. This includes all weight at thetrailer axle(s) and tongue or pin.

2. Unloaded Vehicle Weight (UVW):The weight of the trailer as manufactured at thefactory. This includes all weight at the traileraxle(s) and tongue or pin. It also includes fullgenerator fluids, including fuel, engine oil andcoolants.

3. Cargo Carrying Capacity (CCC):CCC is equal to GVWR minus each of thefollowing: UVW, full fresh (potable) water weight(including water heater), and full LP-Gasweights.Note: Dealer installed equipment and towedvehicle tongue weight will reduce CCC.

4. Gross Axle Weight Rating (GAWR):Is the value specified as the load carryingcapacity of a single axle system, as measuredat the tire-ground interfaces.

5. Tires:Tires recommended to meet handling, loadingand safety requirments. When replacing any ofthe tires, the new tires must meet thesespecification. See Tire Safety information insection 2.2 on page 2-2.

6. Rims:Wheel rims recommended to meet handling andsafety requirments. When replacing any of therims on the vehicle ensure that the new rimsmeet these specifications.

7. Cold Tire Inflation Pressure:The pressure in the tire before you drive. Thesepressure levels must be maintained to assureproper handling, safety and fuel economy

.8. Axle Wheel Configuration:Dual axle/Single wheels.

9. Serial Number:This is the sequence number assigned to thecompleted RV by Triple E RecreationalVehicles.

10. Type:States the NHTSA designated usageclassification for your RV.

11. Model:Lists the Triple E product model number of yourRV.

12. Color:Signifies the color code number of the decorused throughout the RV. This number isnecessary for ordering replacement cushions,curtains, carpet, etc. It is located in thewardrobe beneath the specification sheet.

NoteThe specifications sheet is located in the wardrobe.

Beneath the specification sheet are the exteriorcolors.

All Triple E Recreational Vehicles are builtaccording to CSA standards and RVIA standards

where applicable.

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1.7 (A) EXTERIOR FEATURE IDENTIFICATION - TRAILER MODELComposite model shown for illustration purposes only. Actual locations of features depends on trailermodel and options.

*CAUTIONBe careful. These features maybecome hot while water heater orfurnace are in use.

NOTESome equipment shown may beoptional.

EXTERIOR IDENTIFICATION - TRAVEL TRAILER ONLY (LEFT)

EXTERIOR IDENTIFICATION - TRAVEL TRAILER ONLY (RIGHT)

1. Water Heater Service Access*.2. Refrigerator Service Access.3. Range Hood Vent.4. Porch Light.5. Propane Tank.6. Entrance Step.7. Furnace Service Access Panel*.8. Hitch Jack.

9. Fresh Water Filler.10. City Water Connection11. Sewer Hose Storage.12. Roof Air Conditioner.13. Exterior 120v Receptacle.14. Shore Power Hook-Up.15. Awning.16. Exterior Shower.

TOPAZ

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1.7 (B) FIFTH WHEEL MODELComposite model shown for illustration purposes only. Actual locations of features depends on trailermodel and options.

*CAUTIONBe careful. These features maybecome hot while water heater orfurnace are in use.

NOTESome equipment shown may beoptional.

EXTERIOR IDENTIFICATION - FIFTH WHEEL TRAILER ONLY (LEFT)

EXTERIOR IDENTIFICATION - FIFTH WHEEL TRAILER ONLY (RIGHT)

1. Water Heater Service Access*.2. Refrigerator Service Access.3. Range Hood Vent.4. Porch Light.5. Propane Tanks.6. Storage Compartment.7. Entrance Step.8. Furnace Service Access Panel*.9. Battery Compartment.10. Stabilizer Jacks.

11. Fresh Water Filler.12. Sewer Hose Storage.13. Roof Air Conditioner.14. Exterior 120v Receptacle.15. Shore Power Hook-Up.16. Awning.17. Exterior Shower.18. City Water Connection.19. Courtesy Light.

TOPAZ

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1.8 SERVICE ASSISTANCEYour dealer will be glad to provide any additionalinformation you need and to answer any questionsyou may have about the operation of your traveltrailer. When it comes time for service, rememberthat your dealer knows your trailer best and isinterested in your satisfaction. Your dealer willprovide quality maintenance and assistance duringthe period of your ownership. It is advisable that youfollow a regular maintenance schedule to keep yourvehicle functioning at its best.

Should you require warranty assistance whiletraveling, take your trailer to the nearest Triple Edealer for help.

1.9 REPORTING SAFETY DEFECTS

If you believe that your RV has a safety defect of anykind that could cause injury, or death, contact TripleE immediately. As well, make sure to contact theNational Highway Traffic Safety Administration(NHTSA) in the U.S., or in Canada contact TransportCanada (DOT) and report your concern.

The NHTSA or DOT will investigate the concern shouldthere be a number of similar complaints. They have theauthority to order a recall and repair campaigndepending on the nature and severity of the problem.

The NHTSA may be reached by using the Auto SafetyHotline at 1-888-327-4236 (TTY: 1-800-424-9153) or bywriting to: NHTSA, 400 Seventh St, S.W., Washington,DC 20590 or website: http://www.safecar.gov. TheHotline will also provide you with additional informationon motor vehicle safety.

In Canada, call 1-613-993-9851 or write to: TransportCanada and Road Safety, 2780 Sheffield Road, Ottawa,Ontario K1B 3V9.

TOPAZ

1.10 TRAVELLING COMFORTTriple E has made every effort to design andconstruct your recrerational vehicle for your comfortand safety. We know that your investment isimportant to you as well as to us. Our engineeringand design team has dedicated itself to thedevelopment of the best RV comfort and protectionpackages in the industry.

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2-1

The safety glyph identifies an area thatinvolves the personal safety of the operator,passengers or a bystander. Always read,understand and follow the instructions andinformation in the safety sign or manual instruction.Do not take chances with safety. Most accidentscan be prevented.

In this section we have compiled a series of itemsrelating to safety that everyone should follow.Although this compilation is thorough, we realizethat it does not cover everything. Each person hasthe responsibility of following all listed safety itemscovered in this and other manuals.

This word is used to high-light or emphasize a specificprocedure, information orresult for a system or thetrailer.

This word is used to high-light or emphasize a specificprocedure or informationthat if not followed will resultin damage to a system orthe trailer.

This word is used to high-light or emphasize a specificprocedure or informationthat if not followed caninvolve your personal safetyas well as cause trailerdamage.

IMPORTANT

CAUTION

WARNING

2.1 GENERAL SAFETY1. The most important safety feature on this trailer

is the operator/user. It is the operators'/users'responsibility to read, understand and follow allsafety and operating instructions in the trailer,appliance and system manuals. Most acci-dents can be prevented.

2. A person who has not read and understood alloperating and safety instructions is not quali-fied to operate/use this trailer. An untrained oruninformed operator/user exposes themselves,passengers and other drivers/vehicles/propertyto possible serious injury or death and propertydamage.

3. Do not modify the trailer in any way. Unau-thorized modification may impair the functionand/or safety and could affect the safety andlife of the trailer.

4. Be sure the trailer is loaded in a way to providethe required weight on the hitch of the trailer.An improper hitch weight can lead to poorhandling characteristics when travelling orcause instability on the highway.

5. Be sure the hitch is secured to the towingvehicle with a mechanical retainer, alwaysattach the safety chains and connect the cableto the breakaway switch pin.

6. Review the location, function and operation ofthe escape window with everyone who will beusing the trailer. Inspect the locking mecha-nism.

7. Establish a monthly fire extinguisher inspectionprogram to keep the extinguisher in goodcondition and fully charged. Inspect theextinguisher again prior to a vacation or trip.

8. Ensure that the specifications of your towvehicle allow for the safe trailering of yourRecreational Vehicle. Overloading the towvehicle can cause handling and brakingproblems.

2 SAFETYSafety, comfort and ease of operation are keyconsiderations during the design and manufacturingof all Triple E trailers. It is the responsibility of theowner or operator to read, understand and follow allinstructions in the trailer and appliance or auxiliarysystem manuals and from safety signs on thevehicle. Specific items, procedures or instructionsare identified with the key words IMPORTANT,CAUTION and WARNING to emphasize areas ofspecial concern. These key words are defined as:

TOPAZ

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2.2 Tire SafetyThis portion of the Owner's Manual contains tiresafety information as required by 49CFR575.6.

Section 1, based in part on the National HighwayTraffic Safety Administration's Brochure entitled "TireSafety-Everything Rides on It," contains the followingitems:

• Tire labelling, including a description andexplanation of each marking on the tires, andinformation about the GOT Tire IdentificationNumber (TIN).• Recommended tire inflation pressure, includinga description and explanation of:

A. Cold inflation pressureB. Vehicle Placard and location on the vehicleC. Adverse safety consequences ofunderinflation (including tire failure)D. Measuring and adjusting air pressure forproper inflation

• Tire Care, including maintenance and safetypractices.• Vehicle load limits, including a description andexplanation of the following items:

A. Location and understanding the load limitinformation, total load capacity, and cargocapacity.B. Calculating total and cargo capacities withvarying seating configurations includingquantitative examples showing/illustrating howthe vehicles cargo and luggage capacitydecreases as combined number and size ofoccupants' increases. This item is alsodiscussed in section 3.C. Determining compatibility of tire and vehicleload capabilities.D Adverse safety consequences of overloadingon handling and stopping on tires.

Section 2 contains "Steps for Determining CorrectLoad Limit"

Section 3 contains a Glossary of Tire Terminology,including "cold inflation pressure", "maximum inflationpressure", "recommended inflation pressure", andother non-technical terms.

Section 1

The National Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA)has published a brochure (DOT HS 809 361) thatdiscusses all aspects of Tire Safety. A copy of thisbrochure can be obtained and down loaded fromNHTSA, free of charge, from the following web site:http://www.nhtsa.dot.gov/cars/rules/TireSafety/ridesonit/tires_index.html

Studies of tire safety show that maintaining propertire pressure, observing tire and vehicle load limits(not carrying more weight in your vehicle than yourtires or vehicle can safely handle), avoiding roadhazards, and inspecting tires for cuts, slashes, andother irregularities are the most important things youcan do to avoid tire failure, such as tread separationor blowout and flat tires. These actions, along withother care and maintenance activities, can also:

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

This booklet presents a comprehensive overview oftire safety, including information on the followingtopics:-Basic Tire maintenance

• Uniform Tire Quality Grading System• Fundamental characteristics of tires• Tire safety tips.

Use this information to make tire safety a regularpart of your vehicle maintenance routine. Recognizethat the time you spend is minimal compared withthe inconvenience and safety consequences of a flattire or other tire failure.

Safety First - Basic Tire MaintenanceProperly maintained tires improve the steering,stopping, traction, and load-carrying capability ofyour vehicle. Underinflated tires and overloadedvehicles are a major cause of tire failure. Therefore,as mentioned above, to avoid flat tires and othertypes of tire failure, you should maintain proper tirepressure, observe tire and vehicle load limits, avoidroad hazards, and regularly inspect your tires.

Finding Your Vehicle's Recommended TirePressure and Load Limits

Tire information placards and vehicle certifica-tion labels contain information on tires and loadlimits. These labels indicate the vehicle manufactur-er's information including:

• Recommended tire size• Recommended tire inflation pressure• Vehicle capacity weight (VCW - the maxi-mum occupant and cargo weight a vehicle isdesigned to carry)• Front and rear gross axle weight ratings(GAWR - the maximum weight the axle sys-tems are designed to carry).

Both placards ad certification labels are permanentlyattached to the trailer on the forward half of the leftside, and are easily readable from outside the

TOPAZ

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vehicle without moving any part of the vehicle. Youcan also find the recommended tire pressure andload limit for your vehicle in the vehicle owner'smanual.

Understanding Tire pressure and Load Limits.Tire inflation pressure is the level of air in the tirethat provides it with load-carrying capacity andaffects the overall performance of the vehicle. Thetire inflation pressure is a number that indicates theamount of air pressure-measured in pounds persquare inch (psi)- a tire requires to be properlyinflated. (You will also find this number on thevehicle information placard expressed inkilopascales (kPa) , which is the metric measureused internationally.)Vehicle manufacturer determine this number basedon the vehicle's design load limit, that is, thegreatest amount of weight a vehicle can safely carryand the vehicle's tire size. The proper tire pressurefor your vehicle is referred to as the :recommendedcold inflation pressure." (As you will read below, it isdifficult to obtain the recommended tire pressure ifyour tires are not cold.)

Checking Tire PressureIt is important to check your vehicle's tire pressureat 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 apothole or other object of if you strike the curbwhen parking.• With radial tires, it is usually not possible todetermine underinflation by visual inspection.

For convenience, purchase a true pressure gauge tokeep in your vehicle. Gauges can be purchased attire dealerships, auto supply stores, and other retailoutlets.The recommended tire inflation pressure that vehiclemanufacturers provide reflects the proper psi when atire is cold. The term cold does not relate to theoutside temperature. Rather, a cold tire is one thathas not been driven on for at least three hours.When you drive, your tires get warmed, causing theair pressure within them to increase. Therefore, toget an accurate tire pressure reading, you mustmeasure tire pressure when the tires are cold orcompensate for the extra pressure in warm tires.

Steps for Maintaining Proper Tire Pressure.• Step 1: Locate the recommended tirepressure on the vehicle's tire informationplacard, certification label, or in the owner'smanual.• 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 pressingon the tire valve stem with the edge of your tiregauge until you get to the correct pressure.• Step 4: If the tire pressure is too low, note thedifference between the measured tire pressureand the correct tire pressure. These "missing'pounds of pressure are what you will need toadd.• Step 5: Add the missing pounds of airpressure to each tire that is underinflated.• Step 6: Check all the tires to make sure theyhave the same air pressure (except in cases inwhich the front and rear tires are supposed tohave different amounts of pressure).

If you have been driving your vehicle and think that atire is underinflated, fill it to the recommended coldinflation pressure indicated on your vehicle's tireinformation placard or certification label. While yourtire may still be slightly underinflated due to theextra pounds of pressure in the warm tire, it is saferto drive with the pressure that is slightly lower thanthe vehicle manufacturer's recommended coldinflation pressure than to drive with a significantlyunderinflated tire. Since this is a temporary fix, don'tfor get to recheck and adjust the tire's pressurewhen you can obtain a cold reading.

Tire SizeTo maintain tire safety, purchase new tires that arethe same size as the vehicle's original tires oranother size recommended by the manufacturer.Look at the tire information placard, the owner'smanual, or the sidewall of the tire you are replacingto find this information. If you have any doubt aboutthe correct size to choose, consult with the tiredealer.

Tire TreadThe tire tread provides the gripping action andtraction that prevent your vehicle from slipping orsliding, especially when the road is wet of icy. Ingeneral, tires are not safe and should be replacedwhen the tread is worn down to 1?16 of an inch.Tires have built-in tread wear indicators that let youknow when it is time to replace your tires. Theseindicators are raised sections spaced intermittentlyin the bottom of the tread grooves. When theyappear "even" with the outside of the tread, it is timeto replace your tires. Another method for checkingtread depth is to place an American penny in thetread with Lincoln's head upside down and facingyou. If you can see the top of Lincoln's head, youare ready for new tires.Tire Balance and Wheel AlignmentTo avoid vibration or shaking of the vehicle when atire rotates, the tire must be properly balanced. Thisbalance is achieved by positioning weights on the

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wheel to counterbalance heavy spots on the wheeland tire assembly. A wheel alignment adjusts theangles of the wheels so that they are positionedcorrectly relative to the vehicle's frame. Thisadjustment maximizes the life of your tires. Theseadjustments require special equipment and shouldbe performed by a qualified technician.

Tire RepairThe proper repair of a punctured tire requires a plugfor the hole and a patch for the area inside the tirethat surrounds the puncture hole. Punctures throughthe tread can be repaired if they are not too large,but punctures through the sidewalls should not berepaired. Tires must be removed from the rim to beproperly inspected before being plugged andpatched.

Tire FundamentalsFederal law requires tire manufacturers to placestandardized information on the sidewall of all tires.This information identifies and describes thefundamental characteristics of the tire and alsoprovides a tire identification number for safetystandard certification and in case of a recall.

Information on Passenger Vehicle TiresPlease refer to the markings molded into thesidewall of the tire. The meaning of the letters andnumbers as found on the sidewall of the tires are asfollows:P - The "P" indicates the tire is for passengervehicles.Note: Passenger car tires are not recommended foruse on trailers, because the capacity ratings are notmarked on the sidewalls of these tires. In the eventa passenger car tire is used, the capacity must bederated by 10%.Next number - This three-digit number gives thewidth in millimetres of the tire from sidewall edge tosidewall edge. In general, the larger the number, thewider the tire.Next number - This two-digit number, known as theaspect ratio, gives the tire's ratio of height to width.Number of 70 or lower indicate a short sidewall forimproved steering response and better overallhandling on dry pavement.R - The "R" stands for radial. Radial ply constructionof tires has been the industry standard for the past20 years.Next number - This two-digit number is the wheel orrim diameter in inches. If you change your wheelsize, you will have to purchase new tires to matchthe new wheel diameter.

Next Number - This two or three digit number is thetire's load index. It is a measurement of how muchweight each tire can support. You may find thisinformation in your owner's manual. If not, contact alocal tire dealer. Note: You may not find thisinformation on all tires because it is not required bylaw.M+S - The "M+S" or "M+S" indicates that the tirehas some mud and snow capability. Most radialtires have these markings.Speed Rating - The speed rating denotes thespeed at which a tire is designed to be driven forextended periods of time. The ratings range from 99miles per hour (mph) to 186 mph. These ratings arelisted below. Note: You may not find this informationon all tires because it is not required by law.

Letter Rating Speed RatingQ 99 mphR 106 mphS 112 mphT 118 mphU 124 mphH 130 mphV 149 mphW 168 mphY 186 mph

* For tires with a maximum speed capability over149 mph, tire manufacturers sometimes us theletters ZR. For those with a maximum speedcapability over 186 mph, tire manufacturers alwaysuse the letters ZR.

U.S. DOT Tire Identification Number - Thisbegins with the letters "DOT" and indicates that thetire meets all federal standards. The next twonumbers or letters are the plant code where it wasmanufactured, and the last four numbers representthe week and Year the tire was built. For example,the number 3197 means the 31st week of 1997. Theother numbers are marketing codes used at themanufacturer's discretion. This information is usedto contact consumers if a tire defect requires arecall.Tire Ply Composition and Materials Used - Thenumber of plies indicates the number of layers ofrubber-coated fabric in the tire. In general, thegreater the number of plies, the more weight a tirecan support. Tire manufacturer also must indicatethe materials in the tire, which include steel, nylon,polyester, and others.Maximum Load Rating - This number indicatesthe maximum load in kilograms and pounds that canbe carried by the tire.Maximum Permissible Inflation Pressure - Thisnumber is the greatest amount of air pressure that

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should ever be put in the tire under normal drivingconditions.

Additional information on Light Truck TiresLT - The "LT" indicates the tire is for light trucks ortrailers.ST - An "ST" is and indication the tire is for traileruse only.Max. Load Dual kg (lbs) at kPa (psi) Cold - Thisinformation indicates the maximum load and tirepressure when the tire is used as a dual; that is,when four tires are put on each rear axle (a total ofsix or more tires on the vehicle).Max. Load Single kg (lbs) at kPa (psi) Cold -Thisinformation indicates the maximum load and tirepressure when the tire is used as a single.Load Range - This information identifies the tire'sload-carrying capabilities and its inflation limits.

Vehicle Load LimitsDetermining the load limits of a vehicle includesmore than understanding the load limits of the tiresalone. On a trailer, there is a Federal certificationlabel that is located on the forward half of the left(road) side of the unit.The certification label will indicate the vehicle's grossvehicle weight rating (GVWR). This is the most aparticular axle can weigh. If there are multiple axles,the BAWR of each axle will be provided.In the same location as the certification labeldescribed above, there is a vehicle placard. Thisplacard provides tire and loading information. Inaddition, this placard will show a statementregarding maximum cargo capacity.

Cargo CapacitiesCargo can be added to the vehicle , up to themaximum weight specified on the placard. Thecombined weight the cargo is provided as a singlenumber. In any case, remember: the total weight ofa fully loaded vehicle can not exceed the statedGVWR.Water and Propane also need to be considered. Theweight of the fully filled propane containers isconsidered part of the weight of the RV before it isloaded with cargo and is not considered part of thedisposable cargo load. Water however, is a cargoweight and is treated as such. If there is a freshwater storage tank of 100 gallons, this tank whenfilled would weight about 800 pounds. If more cargois being transported, water can be off-loaded to keepthe total amount of cargo added to the vehicle withinthe limits of the GVWR so as not to overload thevehicle. Understanding this flexibility will allow you,the owner, to make choices that fit your travel andcamping needs.When loading your cargo, be sure it is distributed

evenly to prevent overloading front to back and sideto side. Heavy items should be placed low and asclose to the axle positions as reasonable. Too manyitems on one side may overload a tire. The best wayto know the actual weight of the vehicle is to weighit at a public scale. Talk to your RV dealer todiscuss the weighting methods needed to capturethe various weights related tot he RV. This wouldinclude weights for the following: axles, wheels,hitch or pin (in the case of a trailer) and total weight.

How Overloading Affects Your RV and TiresThe results of overloading can have seriousconsequences for passenger safety. Too muchweight on your vehicle's suspension system cancause spring, shock absorber, or brake failure,handling or steering problems, irregular tire wear,tire failure or other damage.An overloaded vehicle is hard to drive and hard tostop. In cases of a serious overloading, brakes canfail completely, particularly on steep hiss. The loada tire will carry safely is a combination of the size oftire, its load range, and corresponding inflationpressure.Excessive loads and/or underinflation cause tireoverloading and, as a result, abnormal tire flexingoccurs. This situation can generate and excessiveamount of heat within the tire. Excessive heat maylead to tire failure.It is the air pressure that enables a tire to supportthe load, so proper inflation is critical. Since RVscan be configured and loaded in many ways, airpressures must be determined from actual loads(determined by weighing) and taken from the loadand inflation tables provided by the tiremanufacturer. These air pressures may differ fromthose found on the certification label. However, theyshould never exceed the tire limitation for load or airpressure. If you discover that you tires cannotsupport the actual weights, the load will need to belightened.

Tire Safety Tips

Preventing Tire Damage:• Slow down if you have to go over a pothole orother object in the road.• Do not run over curbs or other foreign objects inthe roadway, and try not to strike the curb whenparking.

Tire Safety Checklist:• Check tire pressure regularly (at least once amonth), including the spare.•Inspect tires for uneven wear pattern on thetread, cracks, foreign objects, or other sighs ofwear or trauma.• Remove bits of glass and foreign objects

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wedged in the tread.• Make sure your tire valve have valve capsinstalled.• Check tire pressure before going on a long trip.• Do not overload your vehicle. Check the TireInformation and Loading Placard or User'sManual for he maximum recommended load forthe vehicle.

SECTION 2

STEPS FOR DETERMINING CORRECT LOADLIMIT1. Locate the statement "The combined weightof occupants and cargo should never exceedXXX lbs" on your vehicles placard.2. Determine the combined weight of the driver andpassengers that will be riding in your vehicle.3. Subtract the combined weight of the driver andpassengers from XXX kilograms or XXX pounds.4. The resulting figure equals the available amountof cargo and luggage capacity. For example, if the“XXX” amount equals 1400 lbs. and there will be five150 lb. passengers in your vehicle, the amount ofavailable cargo and luggage capacity is 650 lbs.(1400-750 (5 x 150) = 650 lbs.)5. Determine the combined weight of luggage andcargo being loaded on the vehicle. That weight maynot safely exceed the available cargo and luggagecapacity calculated in Step # 4.6. If your vehicle will be towing a trailer, load fromyour trailer will be transferred to your vehicle.Consult this Manual to determine how this reducesthe available cargo and luggage capacity of yourvehicle.

SECTION 3GLOSSARY OF TIRE TERMINOLOGY Accessory weight - The combined weight (inexcess ofthose standard items which may be replaced) ofautomatic transmission, power steering, powerbrakes, power windows, power seats, radio andheater, to the extent that these items are availableas factory- installed equipment (whether installed ornot).Bead - The part of the tire that is made of steelwires, wrapped or reinforced by ply cords and that isshaped to fit the rim.Bead separation - This is the breakdown of thebond between components in the bead.Bias ply tire - A pneumatic tire in which the plycords that extend to the beads are laid at alternateangles substantially less than 90 degrees to thecenterline of the tread.

Carcass - The tire structure, except tread andsidewall rubber which, when inflated, bears theload.Chunking - The breaking away of pieces of thetread or sidewall.Cold inflation pressure - The pressure in the tirebefore you drive.Cord - The strands forming the plies in the tire.Cord separation - The parting of cords fromadjacent rubber compounds.Cracking - Any parting within the tread, sidewall,or inner liner of the tire extending to cord material.CT - A pneumatic tire with an inverted flange tireand rim system in which the rim is designed withrim flanges pointed radially inward and the tire isdesigned to fit on the underside of the rim in amanner that encloses the rim flanges inside the aircavity of the tire.Curb weight - The weight of a motor vehicle withstandard equipment including the maximumcapacity of fuel, oil, and coolant, and, if soequipped, air conditioning and additional weightoptional engine.Extra load tire - A tire designed to operate athigher loads and at higher inflation pressures thanthe corresponding standard tire.Groove - The space between two adjacent treadribs.Gross Vehicle Weight Rating (GVWR) - Themaximum permissible weight of this fully loadedmotorhome.Gross Axle Weight Rating (GAWR) - The valuespecified as the load carrying capacity of a singleaxle system, as measured at the tire-groundinterfaces.Hitch Weight - The vertical trailer load supportedby the hitch ball.Innerliner - The layer(s) forming the inside surfaceof a tubeless tire that contains the inflating mediumwithin the tire.Innerliner separation - The parting of theinnerliner from cord material in the carcass.Intended outboard sidewall - The sidewall thatcontains a white-wall, bears white lettering or bearsmanufacturer, brand, and/or model name moldingthat is higher or deeper than the same molding onthe other sidewall of the tire or the outward facingsidewall of an asymmetrical tire that has aparticular side that must always face outward whenmounted on a vehicle.Light truck (LT) tire - A tire designated by itsmanufacturer as primarily intended for use onlightweight trucks or multipurpose passengervehicles.Load rating - The maximum load that a tire israted to carry for a given inflation pressure.

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Maximum load rating - The load rating for a tire at themaximum permissible inflation pressure for that tire.Maximum permissible inflation pressure - Themaximum cold inflation pressure to which a tire may beinflatMaximum loaded vehicle weight - The sum of curbweight, accessory weight, vehicle capacity weight,and production options weight.Measuring rim - The rim on which a tire is fitted forphysical dimension requirements.Non-pneumatic rim - A mechanical device which,when a non-pneumatic tire assembly incorporates awheel, supports the tire, and attaches, either integrallyor separably, to the wheel center member and uponwhich the tire is attached.Non-pneumatic spare tire assembly - A non-pneumatic tire assembly intended for temporary use inplace of one of the pneumatic tires and rims that arefitted to a passenger car in compliance with therequirements of this standard.Non-pneumatic tire - A mechanical device whichtransmits, either directly or through a wheel or wheelcenter member, the vertical load and tractive forcesfrom the roadway to the vehicle, generates the tractiveforces that provide the directional control of the vehicleand does not rely on the containment of any gas or fluidfor providing those functions.Non-pneumatic tire assembly - A non-pneumatictire, alone or in combination with a wheel or wheelcenter member, which can be mounted on a vehicle.Normal occupant weight - This means 68 kilograms(150 lbs.) times the number of occupants specified inthe second colunm of Table I of 49 CFR 571.110.Occupant distribution - The distribution of occupantsin a vehicle as specified in the third column of Table Iof 49 CFR 571.110.Open splice - Any parting at any junction of tread,sidewall, or innerliner that extends to cord material.Outer diameter - The overall diameter of an inflatednew tire.Overall width - The linear distance between theexteriors of the sidewalls of an inflated tire, includingelevations due to labeling, decorations, or protectivebands or ribs.Pin Weight - The vertical trailer load supported by theking pin of a fifth wheel hitch.Ply - A layer of rubber-coated parallel cords.Ply separation - A parting of rubber compoundbetween adjacent plies.Pneumatic tire - A mechanical device made ofrubber, chemicals, fabric and steel or other materials,that, when mounted on an automotive wheel, providesthe fraction and contains the gas or fluid that sustainsthe load.

Production options weight - The combined weightof those installed regular production options weighingover 2.3 kilograms (5 lbs.) in excess of those standarditems which they replace, not previously considered incurb weight or accessory weight, including heavy dutybrakes, ride levelers, roof rack, heavy duty battery,and special trim.Radial ply tire - A pneumatic tire in which the plycords that extend to the beads are laid at substantially90 degrees to the centerline of the bead.Recommended inflation pressure - This is theinflation pressure provided by the vehiclemanufacturer on the Tire Information label and on theCertification / VIN tag.Reinforced tire - A tire designed to operate at higherloads and at higher inflation pressures than thecorresponding standard tire.Rim - A metal support for a tire or a tire and tubeassembly upon which the tire beads are seated.Rim diameter - This means the nominal diameter ofthe bead seat.Rim size designation - This means the rim diameterand width.Rim type designation - This means the industry ofmanufacturer’s designation for a rim by style or code.Rim width - This means the nominal distancebetween rim flanges.Section width - The linear distance between theexteriors of the sidewalls of an inflated tire, excludingelevations due to labeling, decoration, or protectivebands.Sidewall - That portion of a tire between the tread andbead.Sidewall separation - The parting of the rubbercompound from the cord material in the sidewall.Test rim - The rim on which a tire is fitted for testing,and may be any rim listed as appropriate for use withthat tire.Tread - That portion of a tire that comes into contactwith the road.Tread rib - A tread section running circuniferentiallyaround a tire.Tread separation - Pulling away of the tread from thethe carcass.Treadwear indicators (TWI) - The projections withinthe principal grooves designed to give a visualindication of the degrees of wear of the bead.Vehicle capacity weight - The rated cargo andluggage load plus 68 kilograms (150 lbs.) times thevehicle’s designated seating capacity.Vehicle maximum load on the tire - The load on anindividual tire that is determined by distributing to eachaxle its share of the maximum loaded vehicle weightand dividing by two.Vehicle normal load on the tire - The load on anindividual tire that is determined by distributing to

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2.3 DRIVING SAFETY1. Only trained and licensed drivers should be allowed to tow this trailer.

2. Observe all applicable road and driving regulations.Check with local transport authorities if you haveany questions.

3. Inspect the trailer before towing. Adjust, repair orreplace components or systems to maintain trailerin good towing condition. Do not tow the trailerunless it is in good condition.

4. Do not allow anyone in the trailer when travellingon the highway. The trailer is not equipped withpassenger restraints appropriate for highwaytravel.

5. A trailer attached to a tow vehicle adds consider-able weight and length to travelling unit andchanges its stability and handling characteristics.Allow more space for stopping, turning, passing,parking, accelerating etc. during operation. Theextra weight and length results in different stabilitycharacteristics. Drive at a slower speed whenturning, cornering or on rough terrain. Use extracare in adverse conditions such as rain, darkness,snow, sleet, icy surface, hilly terrain, rough road ora soft surface.

6. Maintain brakes on both the tow vehicle and thetrailer in top condition at all times. Allow extradistance for stopping. Be extra vigilant in adversesurface conditions such as wet, icy, slushy, roughor a soft surface when applying the brakes. Aftergoing through water, slush or snow, apply thebrakes carefully in an open area to check if one

TOPAZside grabs. Use gentle applications to dry thebrakes and restore uniform operation. Do nottow if uneven brake action persists.

2.4 FUEL (MOTOR AND LP GAS)

1. Do not smoke when filling tow vehicle fueltank or LP gas tank.

2. Extinguish all pilot lights before refuelling.

3. Do not bring or store fuel or LP gas contain-ers, gasoline or other flammable liquids in thevehicle. Vapours can be released causingbreathing difficulties or an explosion or fire.LP gas containers vent excess pressure intothe atmosphere.

4. Do not fill LP gas containers more than 80%of capacity. Overfilling can lead to excessiveventing or gas flow and result in an explosionor fire.

5. Do not use an open flame to check for an LPgas leak. Use soapy water and watch for thebubbles. Close valve on tank and latch allcovers, caps and doors after filling system.

6. Do not connect natural gas to the LP system.

7. Install LP gas regulators with the pressureregulator vent facing downward. Do notobstruct vent hole. In cold weather, conden-sation can get into the regulator and causefreeze-up. Use a light bulb to thaw out. Donot use an open flame or heat lamp to thawout.

8. When using the stove, turn igniter knob tocreate a spark at the burner when burner isturned on. Large volumes of gas can lead toan explosion and fire if igniter is not turnedwhen burner turned on. Turn burner off and letgas dissipate before trying to relight if it doesnot light immediately.

9. Do not use the furnace when the vehicle ismoving. Turn the gas off at the LP container.

10. Do not obstruct LP gas compartment whenparking. Open access allows emergencyworkers to close master valve if an emergencyoccurs.

each axle its share of the curb weight accessoryweight, and normal occupant weight (distributed inaccordance with Table I of CRF 49 571 .110) anddividing by 2.Weather side - The surface area of the rim notcovered by the inflated tire.Wheel center member - In the case of a non-pneumatic tire assembly incorporating a wheel, amechanical device which attaches, either integrally orseparably, to the non- pneumatic rim and provides theconnection between the non-pneumatic rim and thevehicle; or, in the case of a non-pneumatic tireassembly not incorporating a wheel amechanical device which attaches, either integrally orseparably, to the non-pneumatic tire and provides theconnection between tire and the vehicle.Wheel-holding fixture - The fixture used to hold thewheel and tire assembly securely during testing.

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2.5 ASPHYXIATION

1. Do not use portable fuel-burning equipmentincluding wood and charcoal grills and stovesin the vehicle. The use of this equipment cangenerate deadly carbon monoxide gas orcause fires.

2. Provide proper ventilation when using the gasrange or oven to prevent asphyxiation. Do notuse the oven or range to heat the vehicle.Long term use of these appliances for spaceheating increases the chance of asphyxiation.Before using the range or oven:a. Open overhead vent or turn on exhaust

fan, and…b. Open window.

3. Avoid breathing the exhaust fumes from thetow vehicle engine and LP gas burners suchas the range, oven, refrigerator, furnace orwater heater. Provide ventilation to the insideof the trailer for adequate air exchange whenappliances or furnaces are being used toprevent a build-up of carbon monoxide. Be sureall alarms are working.

4. Do not run tow vehicle engine in a confinedarea such as a garage unless you are immedi-ately moving it out of the area.

5. Close windows when driving to prevent draw-ing exhaust fumes into trailer.

2.6 FORMALDEHYDE

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Formaldehyde based adhesives are used in somecomponents in this vehicle and may release smallamounts of formaldehyde fumes into the vehicle foran unknown period of time until fully dissipated.Some people who are allergic to the fumes mayexperience irritation to the eyes, ears, nose andthroat. Small infants may have a more seriousreaction. Although long range effects are not wellunderstood, testing to date has not revealed anyserious health effects in humans at the level ofemission from these products. Reduce the effectsof the formaldehyde fumes by keeping the unit wellventilated.

1. Read, understand and follow safety sign next tostove:

2. Use soapy water to check for leaks and watchfor bubbles. Do not use an open flame.

3. Correct or repair leak(s) before using appli-ances or vehicle again.

2.7 LP GAS LEAKS

IF YOU SMELL GAS1. Extinguish any open flame, pilot lights and all smoking

material.2. Do not touch electrical switches.3. Shut off thegas supply at the container valve(s) or gas

supply connection.4. Open doors and other ventilating openings.5. Leave the area until the odour clears.6. Have the gas system checked and leakage source

corrected before using again.

WARNING

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2.8 ALARMS1. LP Gas Alarm:

a. The alarm will sound whenever there is anunsafe amount of gas in the trailer.

b. Follow instructions on safety sign and airout trailer to silence alarm.

c. Have a qualified service personnel find theleak and correct the problem before usingunit again.

2. Smoke Alarm :a. The alarm will sound whenever there is an

unsafe amount of smoke in the trailer.Always use exhaust fan over the stovewhen cooking.

b. Open doors, vents and windows to air outtrailer and silence alarm. Correct andeliminate smoke source.

c. Check alarm on a regular basis. Checkwhen removing from storage, before tripsand weekly thereafter. Depress centerbutton to test alarm electronics. Testalarm sensor by blowing smoke (from safe,fire-free source) past sensor. If alarmdoes not sound when testing, determinesource of problem and correct or replacealarm.

d. Do not remove battery to silence alarm.When alarm “beeps” every minute, batteryis weak and must be replaced. Do notallow battery to go dead. Be sure toreplace with recommended battery. Testafter battery is replaced.

e. Clean and vacuum opening on smokealarm once a month.

f. Do not try to repair alarm. Replace it.g. Smoke alarms are not perfect and do not

respond in all situations. The best safe-guard is fire prevention.

3. Recurring alarm(s) indicate the slow accumula-tion of LP gas, carbon monoxide, or smoke.Have an authorized service center checksystem and identify source. Correct problembefore resuming use of unit.

4. Refer to alarm manual(s) for more detailedinstructions.

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2.9 ELECTRICAL

1. Use care when working around batteries. Thegases given off when charging are explosive.Keep sparks and flames away from battery.Wear protective clothing, eye protection andremove jewellery. Do not short across termi-nals.

2. Do not overload electrical circuits. Replacecircuit breakers and fuses with components ofsimilar capacity. Do not replace with largercapacity components (breakers or fuses).

3. Use only 3 prong grounded power and appli-ance cords.

4. Be sure trailer is well grounded to preventshocks or electrocution. Do not plug utilitypower cord into an outlet that is not grounded.Do not modify plug to fit a receptacle for whichit was not designed.

5. Use care when handling electrical appliances,power cords and other components. Misuse orabuse of electrical components can lead toshocks or electrocution. Do not use electricalcomponents, cords or appliances with barefeet, wet hands or while standing in water oron wet ground.

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2.10 LOOSE COMPONENTS

1. Tie, strap, or secure all tables, chairs, andother furniture before travelling.

2. Close, latch or lock all doors, panels and gatesbefore travelling.

3. Stow all cooking, serving, eating and otherloose components before moving. Any loosecomponent can become a projectile duringsudden stops, manoeuvring or an accident.

2.11 MAINTENANCE

1. Do not go under a vehicle that is supported witha jack only.

2. Do not mix bias and radial ply tires on thevehicle. Mixing types of tires can affect han-dling characteristics. Replace with the samesize, type and load rating.

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2.12 EMERGENCY EXITSEach trailer is designed with an emergency exitwindow in the sleeping area. The side windows canalso be used as alternate exits.

1. Emergency Exit:Press down on the red latches of the emer-gency egress window and push out the window.(The egress window is hinged on top).

EMERGENCY EXIT WINDOW

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3. Cargo Carrying Capacity (CCC):CCC is equal to GVWR minus each of thefollowing: UVW, full fresh (Potable) water weight(including water heater), and full LP-Gasweights.

NOTEThe GVWR must be equal to or more

than the UVW plus CCC.

4. Tongue/Hitch Weight:This is the weight that is carried by the tongueor the hitch and is transferred to the towingvehicle.

5. WheelsCheck wheel nuts for proper torque before eachtrip. See the manufacturers specifications in theowner's information package for the specifiedtorque requirements.

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3 PREPARATION

Refer to the information package supplied with thetrailer prior to using or towing the unit. Read,understand and follow instructions in the trailer,appliance and system manuals. Also follow thesafety tips provided in Section 2. Trailers can beused many ways and in many conditions or circum-stances. We have tried to compile operational andsafety instructions to cover the normal conditionsencountered with the unit. However these instruc-tions are not all-inclusive. Each user or operatorhas the responsibility to use common sense aroundthe unit and to consult a dealer if you have anyquestions.

3.1 TRAILER PREPARATION

3.1.1 KEYSSeveral number coded keys are supplied with thetrailer and include entry door, baggage compartmentand others depending upon the features of your unit.Always keep a list of these numbers in a safe place(not in the trailer) for easy reference should youmisplace any of the key(s). Supplying a locksmithwith these numbers will allow them to cut a key to fityour lock.

3.1.2 TRAILER WEIGHTSThe trailer is designed with a frame/structure tocarry a specific amount of weight on the axles andhitch/tongue. It is very important for the user not toexceed these specified weights to maintain struc-tural/component integrity of the unit and to provideacceptable handling characteristics during transport.All weight ratings for the US and Canada are listedon the sticker located at the front left corner on theexterior of the unit. Review these ratings and insurecompliance prior to loading the unit and transporting.

1. Gross Vehicle Weight Rating (GVWR):The maximum permissible weight of the trailerwhen fully loaded. This includes all weight at thetrailer axle(s) and tongue or pin.

2. Unloaded Vehicle Weight (UVW):The weight of the trailer as manufactured at thefactory. This includes all weight at the traileraxle(s) and tongue or pin. It also includes fullgenerator fluids, including fuel, engine oil andcoolants.

Always weigh your trailer and tow unit to be surethe trailer is loaded properly to provide optimumhandling characteristics when towing. Alsoensure that the weight carrying capacity of thetow vehicle has not been exceeded.

WARNING

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3.1.3 TOW VEHICLE

It is the responsibility of the customer to specify,select and use an appropriate tow vehicle for yourtrailer. The combination of tow vehicle specifica-tions and equipment plus the trailer loading willdetermine the handling and stability of the unit whiletravelling. Check and comply with all weight andhandling requirements for each state or provinceyou will be travelling through.

Tow vehicle requirements:

1. Tow Vehicle Specs:Select a tow vehicle that has sufficient weightto be stable under all travelling conditions andhas the appropriate equipment for your towingapplication (ie. heavy duty radiator and trans-mission, transmission oil cooler, heavy dutyaxle and rear end, suspension, wheels andtires).

2. Weight and Weight Distribution:Weigh both the tow vehicle and the trailer to besure the tow vehicle, trailer and axles have notbeen overloaded. Check the tags on the towvehicle and the trailer to determine unit specifi-cations. Do not exceed the GVWR or axlecapacities of either unit. Weigh to be sure.Exceeding specifications can shorten compo-nent life and lead to poor handling characteris-tics and loss of control.

3. Accessory Equipment:Always have a certified service shop install therequired accessory equipment (ie. tow hitch,sway control, coolers, etc.). Be sure theinstaller follows the manufacturer's installationinstructions.

4. Tow Hitch:Always use a hitch that distributes the loadacross the rear frame to minimize frameoverloading. Be sure the hitch tow load ratingexceeds the trailer GVWR (Gross VehicleWeight Rating). Always use a 2 5/16"-inch ballon the hitch to handle the hitch loads duringtransport. Keep the hitch and hitch ball asclose to the rear bumper as possible. Do notuse hitch extenders.

5. Sway Control:Always have a sway control system installedon your tow vehicle to improve handling andstability. Be sure it is installed and set per themanufacturers' instructions.

6. Fifth-Wheel Hitches:Always have a certified repair shop install thefifth wheel hitch assembly into the tow vehicle.Be sure the hitch assembly matches thekingpin size and has a tow load rating greaterthan the GVWR (Gross Vehicle Weight Rating)of your trailer. Do not use hitch extenders.

7. Brakes:Always install and use a brake controller thatautomatically applies the trailer brakes in thesame proportion as the tow vehicle brakes.The controller should also have the capacity ofapplying the trailer brakes independently of thetow vehicle.

8. Tire Inflation:Every operator should have an accurate hand-held gauge for checking tire pressure. Alwayscheck the pressure when the tires are cold andkeep them inflated to their specified pressureas listed on the tire sidewall. Over or underinflated tires wear rapidly and adversely affectthe handling and stability of the vehicle.

9. Mirrors:Always install two rear view mirrors that extendout past the edge of each side of the trailer toprovide clear visibility to the rear. Check therear view mirrors frequently while driving to beaware of other vehicles on the road. Use aspotter to assist in directing the trailer whenbacking up.

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4 TRAILER USEYour trailer is designed to be easily and conven-iently moved and transported from one location toanother. It is the responsibility of the driver/user tosecurely attach the trailer to the tow vehicle, prop-erly weigh the entire vehicle and drive carefully. Thissection of the manual will provide the recommendedinstructions on how each of these tasks should bedone.

4.1 HOOKING UP/UNHOOKINGThe trailer must be securely attached to the towvehicle to be sure that is doesn't inadvertentlydisconnect and that the electrical and brakingsystems function properly. Only use a tow vehiclethat is equipped with the recommended accessoriesto handle the towing application (Refer to Section3.1.3 Tow Vehicle).

4.1.1 HOOKING UP/UNHOOKING CONVENTIONAL TRAILER

Follow this procedure when hooking the trailer toyour tow vehicle:

1. Check Tow Vehicle:Check that the ball is securely anchored to thehitch frame, there are no bent or crackedcomponents and the ball is lubricated. Correctdeficiencies if any are found before attachingtrailer.

2. Check Trailer:Check for cracks in the tongue frame and underthe front crossmember, that the ball lockmechanism moves freely and that the hitch isequipped with 2 safety chains. Correct deficien-cies if any are found before attaching trailer.

3. Review and follow the hitch manufacturersinstructions.

4. Clear the area of bystanders especially smallchildren.

5. Slowly and carefully back tow vehicle up to thetrailer. It always works best if another personhelps to direct the tow vehicle. Stop when theball gets close to the tongue.

6. Lower the hitch jack into position to support thetongue weight.

7. Raise and stow the trailer stabilizer jacks.

TOPAZ8. Use the hitch jack to raise the tongue above the

ball.

9. Back the ball under the hitch pocket and stop.Open pocket fully.

10. Use the hitch jack to lower the tongue andsocket around the hitch ball.

11. Close the coupler jaws around the ball andsecure with a mechanical retainer.

12. Use the hitch jack to install the weight distribut-ing hitch spring bars. Refer to spring barmanufacturers installation instructions and followthem during installation.

13. After adjusting spring bars, lower the tongue totransfer all the tongue weight to the hitch. Fullyraise the jack.

14. Check that the frames of both the trailer and towvehicle are level. Set the spring bar length oradjust the height of the hitch ball as required tolevel the frames.

FRAME LEVELLING

Incorrect

correct

IMPORTANTDo not transport trailer unless the frameis level. A frame that is not level loadsthe axles unevenly and reduces vehicle

sway stability.

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CHAIN HOOK-UP

Incorrect

correct

15. Review and follow the sway control manufactur-ers installation and adjustment instructions.Always use this system to minimize sway whiletravelling.

16. Connect both safety chains by crossing themunder the hitch and attaching to a suitableanchor on the tow vehicle. Secure by installingthe couplers through a link in the chain. Selecta link that keeps chain as short as possible andyet long enough to allow sharp turns without thechain binding. Keep both chains the samelength to minimize binding. Tighten coupler boltto secure to chain link.

17. Insert the connector on the end of thetrailer wiring harness into the towvehicle electrical socket. Be sure it issecurely seated to minimize electricallosses. Clean the terminals if required.

18. Perform an electrical system func-tional:a. Start tow vehicle engine.b. Activate brake lights, turn signals

and running lights.c. Correct any deficiencies before

travelling.

19. Remove the chocks from in front ofand behind each wheel.

20. Perform an emergency brakingsystem functional:a. Disconnect electrical plug-in.b. Trip the breakaway switch to

activate braking system.c. Drive forward a little. All trailer

tires should skid. If they do not,determine the cause of the prob-lem before proceeding. Normallythe batteries need to be brought tofull charge.

d. Re-attach electrical connector totruck.

HITCH

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4.1.2 HOOKING UP/UNHOOKING FIFTH WHEEL TRAILER

Follow this procedure when hooking thefifth wheel trailer to the tow vehicle:

1. Check Tow Vehicle:Check that the fifth wheel anchor isin good condition without any bent,cracked or broken components. Besure the anchor assembly fastenersare tightened to their specifiedtorque. Clean wear plate if it iscovered with grit and apply a freshcoat of grease. Be sure it can pivotfreely and the kingpin lock opensand closes freely. Correct deficien-cies if any are found before attach-ing trailer.

2. Check Trailer:Check that the fifth wheel hitch is ingood condition without any bent,cracked or broken components.Check that the kingpin and anchorplate is not bent, cracked, chippedor broken. Correct deficiencies ifany are found before attachingtrailer.

3. Review and follow the hitch manu-facturers instructions.

4. Clear the area of bystanders espe-cially small children.

5. Lower the rear tailgate of the towvehicle.

6. Slowly and carefully back the towvehicle up to the trailer. Stop as thehitch nears the kingpin.

FIFTH WHEEL ASSEMBLY

HITCH ASSEMBLY

7. Use the trailer landing gear to raise or lower thehitch as required for the kingpin position tomatch the height of the fifth wheel lock assem-bly.

8. Back the tow vehicle under the hitch until thelock closes securely around the kingpin. Stop,get out and close the kingpin lock.

9. Secure the lock with a mechanical retainer.

10. Raise landing gear and/or trailer stabilizer jacksto transfer the hitch weight to the tow vehicle.

11. Check that the trailer and tow vehicle framesare level. If the trailer frame is not level, adjustthe receiver and trailer pin box so the frame islevel.

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12. Attach the breakaway switch cable to an anchorpoint on the tow vehicle box. Set the cablelength so the tow vehicle can make a fulljackknife turn without activating the switch/brakes.

13. Insert the connector on the end of the trailerwiring harness into the tow vehicle electricalsocket. Be sure it is securely seated to mini-mize electrical losses. Clean the terminals ifrequired.

14. Perform an electrical system check:a. Start tow vehicle engine.b. Activate brake lights, turn signals and

running lights.c. Correct any deficiencies before travelling

15. Remove the chocks from in front of and behindeach wheel.

16. Perform an emergency braking systemcheck:a. Disconnect electrical plug-in.b. Trip the breakaway switch to activate

braking system.c. Drive forward a little. All trailer tires should

skid. If they do not, determine the causeof the problem before proceeding. Nor-mally the batteries need to be brought tofull charge.

d. Re-attach electrical connector to truck.

IMPORTANTIn order for the emergency brakingsystem (activated by the breaka-way switch cable) to functionproperly, the batteries on thetrailer must be fully charged. Usethe shoreline or tow vehiclecharging system to maintainbatteries in a fully chargedcondition.

BREAKAWAY CABLE

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4.2 TRAILER BRAKE SYSTEMThe electric brakes on your trailer are similar to thebrakes on most cars and light trucks. The majordifference between them is your trailer brakes areactuated and operated by 12 volt DC power fromthe trailer/tow vehicle batteries instead of hydraulicaction. The brakes have been calibrated and setat the factory to apply smoothly and evenly.

The system consists of several components thatmust be in good working condition to functionproperly together to provide safe and reliablebraking. Be familiar with each component and therequirements that keep them in top condition andfunctioning properly. Always refer to informationcontained within the component manufacturersmanuals for more details.

1. Tow Vehicle Battery:The tow vehicle battery is the primary electricalpower source for the trailer braking system. Itmust be in good condition and fully charged.

2. Trailer Battery:The trailer battery is the back-up electricalpower source for the trailer brakes. This back-up source is used when the trailer is unexpect-edly disconnected from the tow vehicle whentravelling and powers the braking system whenthe breakaway switch is activated.

3. Brake Controller:Each customer must select and install a trailerbrake controller in the tow vehicle. Alwaysfollow the controller manufacturers instructionsfor installation and operation. The controller isconnected into the tow vehicle brake system toactuate the trailer brakes whenever the towvehicle brakes are applied. They also aredesigned with a manual slide control that canbe used to manually engage the trailer brakes.The brake controller should be installed withineasy reach of the driver. Use the controller inthe manual mode to help control the sway whentravelling.

Normally electric brake control systems aredesigned with an adjustable actuation set pointthat should be set so the trailer brakes engageslightly ahead of the tow vehicle brakes. Inthis way the trailer will not push the tow vehiclewhen the brakes are applied and the chance ofjackknifing is minimized. If the trailer brakeslag the tow vehicle brake application, the trailerhitch will push on the tow vehicle when stop-ping and potentially cause jackknifing. Inslippery road conditions (ie. wet, rainy, icy,slush, etc.), trailer brake lag will increase thechances for jackknifing.

For some controller systems, a special resistorcan be added to the electrical circuit to preventwheel lock-up. Refer to controller manufactur-ers instructions for more details.

BRAKE CONTROL

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4. Wiring Harness:Every trailer is designed with a wiringharness that conveys electricalsignals and power from the towvehicle to the trailer. Each wiringharness is equipped with a heavyduty 7 pin connector that mates intoa matched socket on the tow vehicle.Always have a trained professionalinstall and wire the receptacle on thetow vehicle to be sure the requiredsignals and power is conveyed to thetrailer. Pass this wiring diagram tothe installer when the outlet is beinginstalled.

Always stow the connector awayfrom the elements when not in use tokeep clean and minimize corrosion.Inspect carefully each time beforeusing. Clean the terminals beforeusing if there is any sign of corro-sion.

Use a special high-temperature 10 gauge wireto terminal 4 to provide power for charging thetrailer battery while driving. It is recommendedthat a 30 amp fuse be installed in the towvehicle charging circuit. The trailer battery mustbe fully charged to properly power the trailerbrakes in an emergency.

5. Breakaway Switch:Every brake/electrical system is designed witha breakaway switch that directs trailer batterypower to engage the trailer brakes when theswitch is actuated. The switch is equipped witha pin that actuates (ie. opens or closes) theswitch/trailer battery power to the brakes. Asteel cable is connected to the pin and is longenough to extend along the tongue/hitch andattach to the tow vehicle. The cable mustalways be attached to a non-removable compo-nent on the tow vehicle.

When the pin is removed from the breakawayswitch, the switch closes and electrical powerfrom the trailer batteries actuate the brakes. Inoperation, if the trailer unhooks from the towvehicle, the pin will be pulled from the switchand the trailer battery will actuate the brakes.

Always check the function of the switch when-ever the trailer is being hooked-up to a towvehicle. Manually remove the pin and checkthat the brakes are locked up. Be sure thebattery is fully charged. Install the pin again toproceed.

Lubricate the pin every three months with a lightoil and spray the inside of the switch with acontact cleaner to prevent corrosion and keepthese components in good condition.

TRAILER PLUG WIRING DIAGRAM

ACTIVATED BREAKAWAY SWITCH

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4.3 TONGUE/HITCH WEIGHTS

The weight of the trailer is carried on the axles and the tongue or hitch. It is the responsibility of the ownerto load the trailer in a way that will give the proper weight and loading distribution of the trailer/tow vehiclecombination. Read and understand Section 2.2 regarding Tirer Safety on page 2.2. Always weigh thevehicle to be certain of the weight distribution and that no axle capacities are exceeded. Improperly loadedor overloaded axles will adversely affect handling characteristics and result in poor stability. Repositionheavy items low and in the centre of the trailer. Light objects can be stored in cabinets, closets anddrawers. Always secure luggage or similar cargo when placed in the trailer to prevent it from moving andcausing damage when travelling. Your tow vehicle owners manual will have specific information regarding themaximum trailer weight that can be towed within the vehicle's safe operating parameters.

The best handling characteristics are obtained when the trailers are loaded according to the followingtongue/hitch weight ratios:

TOPAZ

Standard Trailer: 10% to 15%Fifth Wheel Trailer: 15% to 25%

Follow these steps when determining vehicle weight information:

1. Load trailer for travel (cargo, supplies, water, LP Gas, etc.).

2. Drive the entire vehicle including trailer onto scale and weigh.

3. Drive foward until front wheels are off scale. Weigh.

4. Drive forward until tow unit is off scale. Weigh.

5. Back trailer onto scale and unhook. Weigh trailer.

6. Drive tow vehicle onto scale. Weigh.

7. Weigh truck rear axle.

________ Total Weight

________ Total Less Front Axle Weight

________ Trailer Gross Axle Weight

________ Trailer Gross Vehicle Weight

________ Truck Gross Vehicle Weight

________ Truck Rear Axle Weight

8. This provides the user with all the weightsrequired to determine and calculate ratios andcapacities. Follow this procedure to insurecompliance:a. Record truck and trailer gross and axle

capacities (from Vehicle Decals).b. Calculate hitch/tongue weight ratio

(#5 - #4)/ #5 = Ratio x 100 = % or (GrossTrailer Weight - Gross Trailer Axle Weight)x 100/Gross Trailer Weight = %.

c. Reload trailer as required to comply withhitch/tongue weight ratio.

d. Verify compliance with truck and trailergross vehicle weights and axle grosscapacities.

e. Unload or reload as required. Do notexceed specifications.

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4.4 TRAILER LOADING

The trailer is designed to provide maximum flexibilityand comfort to a wide range of users. As a result, itis equipped with a range of closets, luggage compart-ments, drawers and other storage areas to satisfyevery need. If all storage areas are filled to capacity,the trailer will probably be overloaded.

It is the responsibility of the owner to weigh the trailerprior to travelling to be sure that it does not exceed axleweight capacity and hitch/tongue weight ratio. Ex-ceeding any of the trailer specifications can affect thelife of the unit and handling characteristics. Read andunderstand Section 2.2 regarding Tirer Safety on page2.2.

Always load heavy objects low in the coach and overthe axles to keep the centre of gravity low. Lightobjects can be placed or stored anywhere. Do notcarry more than 100 lbs. in the luggage compartmentor on the roof. Neither area is designed to carry moreweight than 100 lbs. Secure and brace cargo andstored items prior to travelling to prevent damage tocargo and to prevent changing of weight ratios. Installspacers or packing paper around items in the cup-boards, refrigerator and other storage areas.

After weighing the unit, reload cargo as required toinsure compliance with weight and weight ratio speci-fications.

Place emergency equipment such as a first aid kit,traffic flares, tools, flashlights, etc. in a convenientplace for easy access.

Cargo Tray (optional on some models)To access the tray press down the latch to release thesafety lock and pull out the tray. To store it push thetray in all the way till the safety lock is engaged.

TOPAZ

4.5 ELECTRICAL

Each unit is designed with space for an on boardbattery that provides reserve electrical power to thetrailer when power is not provided by the tow vehicle orthe shoreline. It is important that all components bemaintained in good condition for the trailer to functionproperly.

1. Battery:Always keep the trailer battery in good conditionand fully charged. The battery provides reserveelectrical power for the coach when the shorelineis not hooked up and power to apply the trailerbrakes should the hitch/tongue unhook from thetow vehicle during travel.

Charging takes place whenever the shoreline isplugged in. Normally the battery will be at fullcharge if the trailer is being occupied because theshoreline is connected. Charge the battery prior totravelling if the trailer has been in storage for a timeor the shoreline has been disconnected.

Charging will also take place when the wiringharness is plugged into the tow vehicle. This willkeep the trailer battery fully charged while travel-ling.

Never transport the trailer unless thebattery is fully charged and can provide thenecessary electrical power to apply thetrailer brakes should it be required.

Cargo sliding tray

WARNING

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2. Wiring Harness Plug:The trailer wiring harness is equipped with a 7pin connector that plugs into a mating recepta-cle on the tow vehicle. The harness transmitselectrical power from the tow vehicle to thetrailer brakes, lights and battery. Keep allcomponents clean and in good condition tominimize problems.

a. Installation:Have an authorized repair center install thetow vehicle receptacle plug and associatedwiring. Improper installation can adverselyaffect the trailer electrical system. Nevertow the trailer unless the wiring harness isconnected.

b. Plugs:Special 7 pin connectors are used on theend of the wiring harness to transmit thepower between the trailer and tow vehicle.Install the plug on the tow vehicle per theconnector wiring diagram. Always use a#10 wire on the ground circuit to preventcompromising the battery charging effi-ciency.

Always keep both the male and femaleportions of the plug clean and free of corro-sion. Protect both ends from dirt, moistureand the elements when not in use. Beforeconnecting the plugs, check each terminalfor corrosion. Clean prior to connecting.

PIN TRAILER PLUG WIRING DIAGRAM

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5 TRAVELINGYour Travel Trailer is designed to provide maximum convenience and comfort when used as a home orwhen traveling. By following some general recommendations and practices, it will be easy to transport thetrailer from place to place.

TOPAZ

1. Be sure all equipment and systems have beenserviced and ready for travel.

2. Inspect wheel lugs for tightness. Tighten totheir specified torque level.

3. Use an accurate gauge to check tire pres-sures. Tire pressure recommendations areembossed in the tire sidewall. Always checkthe pressure when the tires are cold. Hot tirescan give misleading readings. Bring tires torecommended pressure before travelling.

4. Trailer Preparation:a. Check that all external connections (sewer,

water, phone, cable, shoreline, etc.) aredisconnected and stowed. Close, secureand/or lock all external compartments.

b. Retract, stow and secure TV antenna.c. Fully retract room extension and install

travel locks (if so equipped).d. Secure all objects in trailer. Tie, latch or

lock all loose objects as appropriate. Anunsecured object can become a dangerousprojectile in a sudden manoeuvre or acci-dent.

e. Sanitize and fill fresh water tank if re-quired. Turn off water pump.

f. Start the refrigerator a day ahead of timeso it will be cold for your trip.

g. Fill LP gas container. Be careful not to

5.1 PRE-TRIP INSPECTION AND PREPARATION

overfill LP gas container. An overfilled LPgas container will cause the gas regulatorto fail, and may result in problems with LPgas components. Turn off LP gas valve onLP container. Make sure all LP gas con-trols are turned off (Furnace, Oven, WaterHeater, Fridge). Check for LP gas leaksregularly using soapy water.

h. Check that the fire extinguisher is in goodcondition and fully charged.

i. Deodorize waste holding tank.j. Retract steps and lock in the travel/stowed

configuration.k. Close, secure and lock the door to prevent

intruders and minimize the chance of adoor coming open in an accident.

5. Attach trailer to the tow vehicle (Refer toSection 4 for detailed instructions). Follow allequipment check-out procedures.

All pilot lights and appliances shall be turned offduring refuelling of motor fuel tanks and/or propanecontainers. Do not smoke when refuelling.

WARNING

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5.2 EMERGENCY EQUIPMENT CHECK LIST

Use this list as a guide to identify the minimumamount of emergency or safety equipment. Takemore as appropriate for your travel or personalneeds.

1. First Aid Kit2. Emergency Flares3. Tool Box and Tools4. Plastic Bucket5. Tow Rope or Chain6. Wheel Blocks or Jacks7. Water Hose8. Electrical Cord Extension (100-150 ft./mini-

mum 3 wire/30 amp)9. Fire Extinguisher10. Hydraulic Jack and Lug Wrench (not supplied)11. Spare Tire

5.3 DRIVING1. To The New Driver:

For people that have never towed a trailerbefore, it is recommended that they slowlydrive to a large open area (field, parking lot,etc.) and practice driving. Practice starting,stopping, turning and backing-up. A vehiclehandles much differently with a trailer attached.A trailer substantially changes the power toweight ratio of the total unit and affect theaccelerating/decelerating characteristics. Trystarting and stopping several times at a slowspeed to get the feel of the new characteris-tics.

Turn both to the right and left to get the feel ofthe new handling characteristics. Learn to useboth side mirrors to monitor what is happeningbehind you. Use the center line, road edge orthe road lanes as a reference.

Practice backing-up with no obstacles around.Be sure to use both side mirrors to monitoryour progress.

TOPAZ

Practice driving on the open road when thereis minimal traffic. Use slow speed during thelearning process. Increase the speed onlywhen you feel comfortable with the vehicle andthe new handling characteristics.

Do not allow a new or inexperienced driver tooperate the vehicle without practising in anopen area.

2. Handling:A trailer attached to a tow vehicle substantiallychanges the weight to power ratio of the towvehicle. As a result the unit accelerates anddecelerates at a slower rate than it previouslydid. You will have to allow a longer openspace when passing another vehicle and leavemore space between you and the vehicleahead to allow for safe stopping. Allow morespace when passing to prevent the trailer fromhitting the passed vehicle.When going underneath a bridge or similaroverhang, be sure you have sufficient clear-ance. Check the trailer specification to deter-mine its height. Measure if you have anydoubts. There should always be at least 6inches of clearance.With a little practice you will become accus-tomed to the handling characteristics and feelas comfortable towing the trailer as driving thetow vehicle alone.

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TOPAZ3. Turning/Cornering:

The tires/axles of the trailer are located a con-siderable distance behind the rear axle of thetow vehicle. As a result, while turning the trailer,tires do not track in the same line as the towvehicle. In high speed gradual turns the trailertracking does not affect the unit manoeuvringcharacteristics.However at slow speeds when sharp corners orspecial manoeuvring is required, the tow unitmust go slightly past the corner before turning toallow sufficient space for the trailer axle to goaround the corner or clear the obstruction.Always swing wide like a semi trailer to providethe required clearance. This is particularlyimportant in urban areas with heavy traffic andthe need to make sharp corners. Rememberthat you as the driver have the responsibility todrive in a manner so that the trailer does not hitother vehicles.

4. Braking:The trailer is equipped with electric brakes thatwork in conjunction with the brakes on the towvehicle. They work well together to decelerateand/or stop the vehicle provided the followingtips are observed:a. Function:

Test the function of the trailer brakes,breakaway switch, controller and electricharness whenever attaching to the towvehicle. Correct all unusual conditions orproblems found before travelling. Anydeficiencies to the braking system canadversely affect the handling characteristicsor safety of the vehicle.Set the controller to apply the trailer brakesslightly ahead of the tow vehicle when thesystem is set in the automatic mode. Thiswill minimize the possibility of jackknifingwhen the brakes are applied.

b. Brake Application:• Do not use the trailer brakes to stop

the vehicle. The trailer brakes aredesigned to stop the weight of thetrailer not the entire vehicle. Exces-sive use of the trailer brakes aloneoverloads the brakes and leads tooverheating, fading and short life.

• Do not use only the tow vehiclebrakes to stop the vehicle. The towvehicle brakes are designed to stopthe weight of the tow unit not theentire vehicle. Excessive use of thetow vehicle brakes alone overloadsthe brakes and leads to overheating,

fading and short life.In addition, vehicle handling is ad-versely affected. The trailer continuesto push on the tow vehicle when thebrakes are applied. This can causejackknifing as the trailer hitch tries togo past the tow unit. This is particu-larly important in adverse drivingconditions such as ice, snow or wetroad conditions. Be safe - use bothsets of brakes.

• Set the trailer brake controller tofunction in the automatic mode. Inthis mode, the driver does not have toapply the brakes manually and canfocus on driving. In the automaticmode, the trailer brakes “lead” theapplication of the tow vehicle brakes.This minimizes the chance for thevehicle to jackknife when stopping.

5. Passengers:Triple E does not recommend carrying passen-gers in the trailer when travelling. There areno provisions for secure seats and seat beltsto provide a safe environment.

6. Mountain Driving:When driving in hilly or mountainous terrainyou should employ different driving techniquesthan those used when driving under normal,flat conditions.

a. Climbing a Hill:The automatic transmission of the towvehicle is designed to down-shift automati-cally when required during a long uphillclimb. If you find that the transmissionshifts up and down rather frequently, it is agood idea to select a lower gear for theduration of the climb to prevent this re-peated shifting. This will prevent unneces-sary wear and tear on your transmission.If the tow vehicle has a standard transmis-sion, put the transmission in a lower gearthat will not require additional shifting.

CAUTIONObserve the engine temperature care-fully especially during long climbs. If

you notice over-heating, pull off theroad and allow the engine to cool off

thoroughly before you continue. Fill theradiator with coolant if necessary.

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b. Descending a Hill:It is a good idea to select a lower gear onyour transmission when descending a hill toavoid prolonged application of the brakes.Extended application of the brakes cancause unnecessary wear, tear and over-heating.

Under extreme conditions this could causeyou to lose control of the vehicle.

7. Travel Speed:It is difficult to recommend the correct travelspeed for all conditions and situations. We canonly say that you should not exceed a speedthat is safe for your particular conditions. Ingeneral, drive slower than the posted maximumspeed limit just to be safe.Faster speeds require much longer stoppingdistances and adversely affect vehicle stability.The requirement to stop or make emergencymanoeuvres or turns at high speed can lead toloss of vehicle control.Slow down before making turns. Reduce theneed to aggressively apply the brakes whenmaking turns. The trailer can push on the towvehicle when the brakes are applied in turnsand cause jackknifing.Slow down - be safe.

8. Windy Conditions:Meeting, passing or being passed by largevehicles can create a large gust of wind that willaffect the handling and control characteristicsof the vehicle. This can be severe in strongcross wind conditions.Slow down to reduce the chance of losingcontrol. Drive at a speed where you have fullcontrol and feel comfortable driving. In verysevere conditions, it may be necessary to waituntil the winds die down.

9. Cruise Control:It is recommended that you not use the cruisecontrol on the tow vehicle. It can interfere withyour response in an emergency and affectvehicle stability.

10. Vehicle Sway:Trailer sway is the most common adverse

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A STANDARD RULE OF THUMB:Use the same lower gear positionwhen descending a hill as you usedwhile climbing the hill.

handling characteristic that a driver can encoun-ter. Sway can become very severe at highspeed and lead to loss of control of the vehicleitself. Many external conditions can lead tovehicle sway (such as cross winds, wind gustsfrom other vehicles, etc.) that the driver haslittle control over. However in certain condi-tions, quick movements of the steering wheelcan start the vehicle swaying.Follow these procedures to stop or reducevehicle sway:a. Hold the steering wheel in one position.

Because of the time lag between sensingvehicle position and corrective steering, itis common for steering to aggravate theswaying condition. In may cases, vehiclecontrol will be regained by just holding thesteering wheel stationary.

b. Slow down quickly but gradually. Do notslam on the brakes to slow down. This willcause the trailer to push hard on the backof the tow vehicle and aggravate the swaycondition. In severe or slippery conditions,this can cause the unit to jackknife and youwill lose control. Carefully apply the trailerbrakes to slow the vehicle and keep theunit aligned.

c. If there is a sudden change in control orhandling of the vehicle, slow down quicklybut gradually and stop as soon as possible,out of the way of other vehicles or off theroadway. Check all major systems orcomponents to be sure no failures orproblems have occurred. Check tirepressure, sway control, hitch spring bar, lugnuts and load shifting. Determine thecause of the change in stability and correctbefore continuing. If you cannot determinethe cause of the change, travel to anauthorized service centre to obtain help.Do not exceed a safe travel speed.

11. Vehicle Spacing:Always allow extra space between you and thevehicle ahead to provide the extra distancerequired for stopping. The heavier vehiclerequires more distance to stop safely than thetow unit alone. Do not tailgate.Always allow extra space and distance whenpassing another vehicle. A longer distance ofclear road is required for the vehicle to get up tospeed to pass another vehicle. Go further pastthe other vehicle to provide space for the trailerto clear the other vehicle. If space and/ordistance are questionable, do not pass.

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5.4 PARKING

Parking the unit can easily and conveniently bedone by any driver by remembering the followingitems:

1. Parking (on the level):a. Provide extra clearance to the side for side

mirrors to clear adjacent vehicles, signs,posts, poles, etc..

b. Provide extra length to clear other vehicleswhen parallel parking.

c. Always place the tow vehicle transmissionin Park (automatic) or low/reverse (manual)and set the park brake.

2. Parking (on a slope):Although parking on the level is recommended,there are times when that is not possible.However always park on as level an area aspossible. Follow this procedure when parkingon a slope:a. Position the vehicle where desired and

apply the brakes on the tow vehicle.b. Have someone place chocks or blocks on

the downhill side of the trailer wheels.c. When your assistant is clear from the unit,

slowly release the tow vehicle brakes untilthe trailer tire chocks take up the trailerweight.

d. Again apply the parking brake of the towvehicle.

e. Place transmission into Park (automatic) orlow or reverse (manual) and turn engine off.

IMPORTANTFollow these parking proceduresin all conditions.

IMPORTANTBe sure to rest trailer weightagainst chocks before placingautomatic transmission in Park toprevent difficulty in shifting out ofPark when leaving.

3. Leaving :a. Apply tow vehicle brakes and start engine.b. Shift transmission into gear and move far

enough to remove weight from the chocks.c. Apply tow vehicle brakes.d. Have someone remove chocks from the

trailer tires and stow in one of the luggagecompartments so they will be available thenext time they are needed.

e. Drive away when your assistant is clear.

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TOPAZ5.5 WHEELS/TIRESThe wheel, tires and associated componentstransmit and carry the weight and load between thetrailer and the road surface, a long acceptableoperating life for these components requires thatthey be maintained in good condition at all times.

Always follow these common sense maintenanceitems to keep these components in top condition.1. Tires:

See the Tire Safety section 2.2 on page 2-2.2. Rims:

Each trailer is equipped with heavy duty rims tocarry the heavier weight and side loadsencountered on a trailer. Tandem axles do notsteer. As a result, they are pulled sidewayswhenever the trailer goes around a corner. Intight turns, they are literally dragged sidewaysas the corner is made.This side load will cause stress to the rim andmounting bolts. Over time the wheel bolts canstretch and retorquing is required.If the wheel bolts continue to come loose, it isrecommended the rim and bolts be replaced.Loose bolts can be caused by oblong mountingholes and the only way to correct this conditionis to replace the rim.

3. Wheel Bolts/Lugs:The tires/rims are secured to the axle with wheelbolts/lugs. It is extremely important to apply andmaintain proper wheel mounting torque on yourtrailer axle. Torque is a measure of the amountof tightening applied to a fastener (nut or bolt)and is expressed as length force. For example,a force of 90 pounds applied at the end of awrench one foot long will yield 90 lbs.-ft oftorque. Torque wrenches are the best method toassure the proper amount of torque is beingapplied to a fastener. (See Axle manufacturersinstruction in the Owner's information package).

Be sure to remember these recommendedprocedures:a. Break-In:

When the trailer is new, check and re-torquethe wheel bolts as specified by the axlemanufacturer.

b. Wheel Replacement:No matter how careful a driver you are, tireleaks, punctures and blowouts do occur.When this happens, the tire must beremoved and repaired or replaced.If you are not familiar with the procedurehave an authorized repair person remove thewheel for you. If you remove the wheelyourself, be sure to follow all standard safetyconsiderations.

c. Torque Sequence: It is important that the proper torquingsequence is followed in the proper stages toobtain an even seating on the hub. See theaxle manufacturer's instructions in theOwner's information package. Follow thistightening sequence whenever installing ortorquing a wheel. Repeat the torquingmileage sequence after installing a wheel thesame as that defined by the axlemanufacturer. Be sure, retorque per theserecommendations.

CAUTION:Wheel nuts or bolts must be tightened andmaintained at the proper torque levels to preventloose wheels, broken studs, and possibledangerous separation of wheels from your axle,which can lead to an accident, personal injuriesor death.

4. Flat Tires:Although everyone strives to drive in a way thatminimizes the chance for driving over a roadhazard and causing a flat tire, tires do go flat.a. Stationary Vehicle:

Besides an inconvenience, tires that go flatwhile the trailer is stationary create fewproblems. If you have the proper tools andknow-how, change your own tire and get itrepaired. Be sure to follow the bolt torquingsequence specified by the axlemanufacturer. Follow the break-in procedureto be sure the bolts seat and stay tight.

b. Moving Vehicle:If the unit is moving when the tire goes flat,follow this procedure:• Carefully and gradually decrease speed.• Gently apply the brakes.• Keep both hands on the steering wheel to maintain control.• Drive to a safe place off the side of the road.• Park on a firm level spot if possible.• Set park brake, turn on hazard flashers and stop engine.• Set out flares or reflectors to alert other drivers as required by the conditions.• Change or have tire changed.• Torque wheel bolts per specified sequence.• Re-Torque wheel bolts per break-in recommendations by the axlemanufacturer.

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Rear Bumper

UnderbodySPARE TIRE LOCATION

CAUTION: Do not attempt to repair or modify adamaged wheel. Even minor modifications cancause a dangerous failure of the wheel and result inpersonal injury or death.

5.6 BACKING-UPTo new drivers, backing up can be very difficult.However by following some general guidelines and alittle practice, you can become quite adept atbacking your trailer.Follow these guidelines when learning to back-up:1. Set the side rear view mirrors so you can see

back past both sides of the trailer.2. Drive to a large open area (field, parking lot,

etc.) and stop with the unit in a straight line.3. Grasp the bottom of the steering wheel while

backing up. The bottom of the steering wheelwill go in the same direction as the trailer.

4. Back up slowly and carefully.5. Turn the steering wheel in the direction that you

want the trailer to go.6. Look through both side mirrors to monitor the

position of the trailer.7. Use a spotter on the drivers side to help direct

you when backing up in tight congested areas.8. Keep the trailer angle as small as possible

while backing. If the angle becomes sharp,stop and pull forward to straighten out. Thenresume backing up.

With a little practice and patience, you will be ableto back-up easily. A spotter is always recom-mended to see behind the trailer while backing up.

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5.7 TRAVEL TIPS

As you travel with your trailer you will learn much from your own experiences. Share with other trailerowners and learn from them. Read RV, outdoor and camping magazines for camping and travel tips. Hereare a few basic suggestions to make your travel and your camping easier and more enjoyable:

1. Know the height and width of your trailer. Makeadequate allowance for clearance.

2. Always fill your water tank with clean, fresh,potable water. Do not use a new hose to fill thetank. It may leave a taste of rubber or vinyl.

3. Conserve water. Remember the holding tankshave a limited capacity.

4. Dump sewage only at approved dumping sites.

5. Store all liquids in plastic containers with tightseals.

6. Watch the levels in your holding tanks. Afterdumping, make sure to add water to the blackwater tank to prevent solids from settling in thetank. Without adequate liquid in the blackwater tank, dumping can be difficult, if notimpossible.

7. Sleeping bags are a good idea. They take upless storage space than regular bedding andthey save on laundry while travelling.

8. Make sure all compartment doors, refrigeratorand freezer doors are closed securely. Openthese doors carefully after travelling. Thecontents may have shifted while travelling.

9. Reserve campsites in advance to avoid disap-pointment.

10. There are legal restrictions in some jurisdictionsregarding vehicles with LP gas containersdriving through highway tunnels. Plan yourroute carefully for you travelling enjoyment.

11. Be careful not to leave odor-causing food ormaterials in your trailer for extended periods oftime. Make sure wet clothing and towels aredry before storing.

12. Make sure your fire extinguisher is ready foruse and that you know how to operate it.

13. Instruct your family on what to do in case of fire,and hold fire drills periodically.

14. While driving, use your mirrors to determinewhether you are crowding the center line or theoutside edge of the highway. Remember, youare driving a vehicle that requires a driving stylequite different from driving the family car.

15. When backing the trailer, have a person standto the rear on the driver's side to guide you.

16. Do not allow passengers in the trailer whentravelling.

17. While travelling, make sure all doors are closedand that cabinets, drawers, and loose objectsare secure.

18. Gas and smoke detectors should not be ob-structed and should be in working order at alltimes.

19. Keep a well stocked first aid kit handy.

20. Keep a tool box handy.

21. Check tires often while travelling. Make it ahabit to check tire pressures before each trip,and at regular intervals thereafter.

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5.8 QUICK LOADING CHECK-LIST

1. Bedding:a. Sleeping Bagb. Sheetsc. Pillow Cases and Pillowsd. Mattress Padse. Extra Blanketsf. Laundry Bags

2. Cooking:a. Can Openerb. Bottle Openerc. Aluminium Foild. Matchese. Plastic Bagsf. Coffee Potg. Storage Dishes

3. Cleaning:a. Scouring Padsb. Cleanserc. Glass Cleanerd. Dish Soape. Spongef. Laundry Soapg. Cleaning Ragsh. Paper Towelsi. Garbage Bags

4. Bathroom:a. Bath/Hand Soapb. Bath Towels/Beach Towelsc. Toiletry Kitsd. Tooth Brushes/Toothpastee. Shaver/Razorf. Toilet Tissue

5. Baby Needs:a. Car Seat/Child Restraintb. Portable Cribc. Play Pend. Mattress Padse. Extra Blanketsf. Laundry Bags

6. Personal:a. Credit Cardsb. Traveller's Checksc. Cashd. Driver's Licensee. Birth Certificatef. Sunglassesg. Vehicle registrationh. Insurance policyi. Passport

7. Pet Needs:a. Foodb. Leashc. Feeding Traysd. Vaccination Record

8. Miscellaneous:a. Stringb. Clotheslinec. Insect Repellentd. Tape/Masking/Duct

9. Additional Items as per Individual andPersonal Tastes and Needs:

TOPAZ

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5.9 SEVERE WEATHER INFORMATION

As an RV traveller you will find the desire to explore new and out-of-the-way places irresistible. Theserecreational areas can be vulnerable to unusual and severe weather conditions that could endanger yoursafety. A few suggestions and safety precautions may help you in this situation.

IMPORTANTAll trailer occupants should befamiliar with these safetyprecautions and be alert tochanges in the weather.

1. Be alert! Thunderstorms and heavy rains canoccur suddenly and unexpectedly. Listenfrequently to weather reports for the area inwhich you are camping or travelling.

2. When camping near a stream or any body ofwater leave plenty of space between your trailerand the stream.

3. Avoid canyons or dry washes during threateningweather. Prepare with an alternate exit. Moveto higher ground as soon as it starts raining.

4. Should you get caught in a flash flood, do notattempt to move your vehicle. Abandon it andreturn to it only after the water has gone down.Never attempt to drive through any floodedarea.

5. Heed the warnings and instructions of localauthorities.

6. Have on hand enough survival supplies forseveral days. This should include food, water,first-aid supplies and necessary medications.

7. When you leave home, inform someone of yourdestination and your schedule. Notify the samepeople if and when your plans change.

8. Remember These Terms:a. Weather Watch:

Severe weather may develop in your area.Be prepared for an emergency.

b. Weather Warning:Severe weather is occurring or is imminent.Find a safe location immediately.

It is always a good idea to listen to weatherinformation on your radio or TV so that youwill not be caught unaware if and whenthere is a sudden change in the weather.

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6 CONTROLSIt is the responsibility of each owner, operator, driveror user to be familiar with the positions, functionsand settings of all controls. Each new personshould be trained in all aspects of trailer operationprior to starting. Review this section as often asrequired to understand the controls. Contact yourdealer if you have any other questions.

6.1 ENTRY LIGHTINGThe entry doorway area is equipped with a switchpanel that controls the following functions:

1. Flood Light:This 2 position rocker switch controls the powerto the exterior flood light. Depress the upperportion of the switch to turn the flood light onand the lower portion for off.

2. Left Porch Light:This 2 position rocker switch controls the powerto the left outside porch light. Depress theupper portion of the switch to turn the porchlight on and the lower portion for off.

3. Right Porch Light:This 2 position rocker switch controls the powerto the right outside porch light. Depress theupper portion of the switch to turn the light onand the lower portion for off.

4. Interior Light:This 2 position rocker switch controls thepower to a trailer interior ceiling light. Depressthe upper portion of the switch to turn the lighton and the lower portion for off. The switch onthe light must be in the 'on' position.

4-GANG LIGHT SWITCHES

ENTERTAINMENT SYSTEM

6.2 ENTERTAINMENTSYSTEM

Refer to the Owner Information package for moredetails.

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6.3 REFRIGERATORRefer to the Operator's Manual in the Owner'sInformation Package for detailed instructions.

The refrigerator control panel is located on the faceof the fridge behind the top freezer door.

1. Master ON/OFF Switch:This latching push button switch controls thepower to the refrigerator. Depress the switchand it will latch in the depressed position for thepower to be on. Depress the switch again tounlatch it and turn the power off.

IMPORTANTThe control panel operates on 12 volt DCpower. This requires the trailer battery tobe at full charge for proper control.

2. Mode Selector Switch:This push button switch selects which powersource will be used to operate the refrigerator.Depress the switch once to select the 120-voltpower. Depress the switch again to select Gas.The respective indicator light will come on toindicate which power source you are using.

3. Temperature Selector Switch:Depress the switch to get the desired setting.

6.4 LIGHT SWITCHESMany rocker, slider or standard light switches areused throughout the trailer to turn lights on and off.If there is any confusion as to which switch and lightwork together, try the switch.

Wall Switch

Wall Lamp

LIGHT SWITCHES (TYPICAL)

Ceiling light

REFRIGERATOR CONTROL PANEL

1 2 3

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Control

6.5 COMFORT CONTROLCENTERA comfort control center is located in the trailer(living area or bedroom) to control the heating andcooling systems in the vehicle. The control centeris customized to the specifications of your vehicleand will control the furnace and air conditioner.

Refer to the Operator's Manual in the Owner'sInformation Package for detailed instructions. Thecontrol functions include:

1. Mode Switch:This 3 position sliding switch sets the operatingmode for the comfort appliances. Move theswitch fully up to operate the cooling (airconditioner) system and fully down for heating(furnace) system. Place the switch in thecentre to turn off.

2. Fan Switch:This 2 position sliding switch sets the operatingmode for the fan. Move the switch up to turnthe fan on and down to set it in the automaticmode. In the automatic mode, the fan will runwhenever one of the comfort appliances isoperating.

3. Fan Speed:This 2 position sliding switch sets the operatingspeed of the fan. Move the switch down for lowspeed and up for high speed.

4. Thermostat:This sliding switch sets the ambient tempera-ture for the comfort appliances. Slide theswitch to the desired temperature.

COMFORT CONTROL CENTER

6.6 HEATING SYSTEM

6.6.1 Furnace:Each trailer is equipped with a furnace that iscontrolled by a thermostat or by the optionalcomfort control center.Refer to the Operator'sManual in the Owner's Information Package fordetailed instructions.

FURNACE

Do not touch the heater canister and burnerexhaust vent. These components are extremelyhot and contact can cause serious burns.

WARNING

6.6.2 Fireplace (optional on some models)Refer to the Operator's Manual in the Owner'sInformation Package for detailed instructions.

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TOPAZ6.7 ROOF VENT

Overhead vents are located in the galley and bathroom areasfor fresh air circulation and exhausting heat, odors and watervapor. Use the vent fan in conjunctions with an open windowto provide a flow of fresh air into the unit.

1. Non-Powered:This vent is equipped with a rotary handle to open or closethe vent. Turn counterclockwise to open the vent andclockwise to close it.

2. Powered:This vent is equipped with a push button switch to activatethe fan. Press the push button switch to turn the fan onand press it again to turn it off.

3. Thermostatically Controlled Ceiling Fan (Optional):a. In/Out: This rocker switch controls the rotationaldirection of the fan in the vent. Depress the IN side of theswitch for the fan to draw air into the coach. Depress theOUT side for the switch to draw air out. The fan mustalways come to a complete stop before changing direc-tions.

b. ON/OFF Fan Speed: This 4 position rotary switchcontrols the power to the fan and the fan speed. Turn theswitch to its most counterclockwise position to turn thefan off. Turn the switch to its first, second or thirdclockwise detents (Position 1, 2 and 3 respectively) to setthe fan speeds at low, medium or high. The roof ventmust be open at least 3 inches or the internal safetyswitch will prevent the fan from coming on.

c. Vent Height: This knob controls the position of thevent hood. Turn the knob clockwise to pull the hood downand close it. Turn counterclockwise to raise or open thehood.

d. Thermostat: This rotary switch controls the set pointfor the system thermostat. Turn the knob to the desiredposition. Moving the pointer to the red portion of the scalewill increase the temperature of the set point for the ventfan to come on. To operate, the vent must be open andfan switch turned to either in or out.

4. Remote Control switch (some models only)a. Press the top of the rocker switch to turn the fan on.Press the bottom of the switch to turn it off. Note - The roofvent must be open at least 3 inches or the internal safetyswitch will prevent the fan from coming on.b. Press and hold the rocker switch to raise or lower theroof vent lid to the desired position. ROOF VENT

1. Non-Powered

2. Powered

a

a b

c d

3. High Speed Powered (Optional)

4. Remote Control (Some Models only)

2

1

b

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6.8 WATER / PLUMBING SYSTEMA trailer water system consists of a fresh, grey andblack water system plus a water heater andplumbing. Be sure to review, understand and followall operating instructions for the system.

6.8.1 WATER HEATERRefer to the Operator's Manual in the Owner'sInformation Package for detailed instructions. Waterheaters are designed to operate using either LP gasor 120 volt electric power. Both electric and gaspower sources require water in the tank beforestarting to heat water or the element will burn out.

IMPORTANTThe electric water heating system will operate whenturned on only when the shoreline is plugged in andthere is sufficient 120 volt AC power available. Ifthere is insufficient or no power, you may elect torevert back to gas to heat the water.

A. To select electric power:Depress the top of the electric switch to turnthe 120-volt power 'on' to the electric heatingelement. Depress the bottom fo the switch toturn the 120-volt power 'off'.

B To select LP gas power:Depress the top of the electric switch to turnthe 120-volt power 'on' to the electric heatingelement. Depress the bottom fo the switch toturn the 120-volt power 'off'.

IF YOU SMELL GAS1. Extinguish any open flame, pilot lights and all smoking

material.2. Do not touch electrical switches.3. Shut off the gas supply at the container valve(s) or gas

supply connection.4. Open doors and other ventilating openings.5. Leave the area until the odour clears.6. Have the gas system checked and leakage source

corrected before using again.

WARNING

Do not touch the heater canister and burnerexhaust vent. These components areextremely hot and contact can causeserious burns.

WARNING

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6.8.2 WATER HEATER BYPASSThe water heater is equipped with a diverter valvethat sets its plumbing circuit for normal or winterize.The valve is accessed from inside the trailer at theback of the water heater. The location can varydepending on your specific model.

Watch the pointer on the pivot to determine the valvesetting.1. Bypass Operation.2. Normal Operation.

1. Bypass

2. Normal

WATER HEATER DIVERTER VALVE

6.8.3 WATER PUMPThe water system is equipped with a 12 volt pumpthat pressurizes the system and moves water towhere it is required. A master switch is located onthe system monitor panel to turn the pump on or offas desired. In addition, the trailer can be equippedwith optional auxiliary switches in the kitchen andbathroom.

Depress the switch once to turn the pump on andagain to turn it off. It is recommended that themaster switch be turned off whenever leaving theunit for any period of time or while driving.

Switch locations:1. Master ON/OFF:

This switch is located on the system monitorpanel in the kitchen. The switch, (red indicatorlight) will come on when this master switch ison. This switch must be turned on for any ofthe other auxiliary switches (if so equiped) towork.

WATER PUMP SWITCHES

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6.8.4 WATER SYSTEM ACCESSOpen the access doors on the side of the trailer toaccess fresh water fill system. Use the fresh waterinlet to fill the fresh water tank. Use the city waterinlet to connect to city water to pressurize thesystem.

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6.9 DISCHARGE VALVES

1. Discharge Fitting:This fitting carries the discharge from the greyand black water tanks. Connect the discharge orsewer hose to the fitting and route into an ap-proved sanitary disposal system. Route thedischarge hose to eliminate any low spots in thehose when discharging. Install dust cap whenthe discharge hose is removed.

2. Open Black Tank First:a. Black Water Tank Valve:

This is the discharge valve for the blackwater tank. Pull out to open valve and pushin to close. Always empty the black watertank first and use the grey water tank torinse out any black water residue left insidethe sewer hose

b. Grey Water Tank Valve:This is the discharge valve for the grey watertank. Pull out to open valve and push in toclose. Always empty the black water tankfirst and use the grey water tank to rinse outany black water residue left inside the sewerhose

IMPORTANTHolding tanks should be dumped before

travelling to eliminate unnecessaryweight while driving.

DISCHARGE VALVES (Typical but varies bymodel)

AB

FRESH WATER SYSTEM

CITY GRAVITY FILL

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6.10 TV ANTENNA (OPTIONAL)

Your trailer is equipped with an extendable TVantenna on top of the unit to provide the bestreception at remote locations. Always fully retractantenna whenever vehicle is moved or transported.

1. Extending/Retracting:This crank controls the position of the antennaassembly on top of the roof. Turn the crankclockwise to raise the antenna andcounterclockwise to lower. Always fully extendor retract the antenna. Do not move or travelwhen the antenna is extended. If parking wheredebris can accumulate on roof, clean theantenna area before retracting.

IMPORTANTAlways turn booster off when notbeing used to prevent draining the

battery.

BOOSTER SWITCH

2. Rotation:The antenna can be rotated to align with thesignal to provide the best reception. Grasp thecrank handle mounting plate on both sides andpull down. Rotate the plate until the antenna isset to provide the best TV reception. Check thereception on a TV to know when it is the best.

ANTENNA CONTROL

3. Booster:Your trailer may be equipped with a manualbooster switch to amplify the TV signal receivedfrom the antenna. Push the switch to the “on”position and the red LED light will be illuminated.Push in the “off” position when not being used.

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6.11 SYSTEM MONITORA system monitor is located on the wall in thekitchen.1. Status LED's:

Four LED's are used to indicate the status of thetanks and battery. The tank scale registersEMPTY, 1/3, 2/3 or FULL. The battery chargecondition registers 12V, 11V, 10V, or 0-9V.Read the appropriate scale when the levels testswitch is depressed.a. Grey 2 Water Tankb. Grey 1 Water Tankc. Black Water Tankd. Fresh Water Tanke. Trailer Battery

2. Levels Test:This push button switch controls the levels testfeature on the control panel. Depress and holdthe switch to illuminate the L.E.D. display lights.This will indicate the respective levels.

SYSTEM MONITOR

6.12 MICROWAVE/WATER HEATER

120-volt electric power is required to operate themicrowave and can be selected to power the waterheater. A selector switch located in the kitchenallows the user to direct the available electric powerto the microwave oven or the water heater. There isnot normally sufficient electrical power available tooperate both at the same time.Normally the power is directed to the water heaterexcept for when the microwave is being used. Sincethe water heater element is only on for part of thetime, directing the power to the microwave onlysimulates an element off cycle. Always switch backto water heater when the microwave use is over.When the power is directed to the water heater, thepower monitor light comes on. When the circuitbreaker trips, it will have to be reset and the resetbutton pushed for the water heater to function again.Determine the cause of the tripping problem andcorrect it before starting the heater element again.

MICROWAVE/WATER HEATER SWITCH

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6.13 CABLE TVThe trailer is designed with a TV cable terminal at therear of the unit. Remove the cover and attach thecable.

EXTERIOR HOOK UP

INTERIOR HOOK UP

6.14 CABLE TV A phone jack (somemodels only) is also located at the rear of the unitbeside the cable outlet.

6.15 CABLE TV A satellite prewire kit(some models only) is located in the overheadcabinets. See your Dealer for more detailedinformation.

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6.16 LANDING GEAREach fifth wheel trailer is designed with landing gearto support the weight of the front of the unit when thetow vehicle is unhooked.

LANDING GEAR OVERRIDE SWITCH

The landing gear can be lowered using a 12 volt motoror a manual crank. Use powered switch (A) locatedon front of unit or use the crank (B). Always stow thecrank when not in use.

A manual overide on/off switch is located inside thefront baggage compartment to prevent anunauthorized person to operate the jacks.

6.17 STABILIZER JACKSEach corner of the trailer may be equipped withstabilizer jacks to eliminate frame movement whenthe trailer is occupied. Insert the crank handle andturn it down to stabalize the unit. Do not use thestabalizer jack to lift the unit off the ground.

STABILIZER JACKS (TYPICAL)LANDING GEAR

A B

6.18 HITCH LIGHTThe fifth wheel trailer kingpin area is designed with alight to assist in seeing components in the hitcharea. Turn the light off when the hook-up procedurehas been completed.

HITCH LIGHT

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7 HOME USEThe trailer is designed to be your home on wheelswhile traveling in comfort. This section will coverthe items that must be done or considered in orderto obtain the maximum satisfaction from your unit.

7.1 PARKING1. Parking:

The trailer can be stopped and parked just likean automobile. However always remember thatthe unit is longer, wider and higher than a carand more room and clearance must be provided.However in most camping areas, the trailermust be backed into position to connect toservices.

2. Backing Up:a. Mirrors:

Large mirrors should be mounted on bothsides of the tow vehicle cab to providerearward visibility for the driver. However,they do not provide visibility directly behindor on top (clearance) of the unit.

b. Steering:Remember to grasp the steering wheel atthe bottom when backing up. The trailer willmove in the same direction the bottom ofthe steering wheel moves. Do not turn theunit too sharply when backing up. Pullahead to straighten out if required and tryagain.

c. Spotters:The best results are obtained when anotherperson helps guide the driver in backing thetrailer/unit into position. The driver andspotter should agree to the meaning of handsignals before starting the backing process.The spotter should always be in a positionthat is visible to the driver while backing.

3. Always set the parking brake and place chocksin front of and behind the wheels to preventrolling away.

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7.2 TRAILER LEVELLING

If you want to use any of the appliances whenoccupying the trailer, it will be necessary tolevel the trailer frame. The refrigerator isparticularly sensitive and must be within acouple of degrees of level to function properly.The tow vehicle can remain hooked up to thetrailer or unhooked depending on your specificrequirements. A little time and planning doneprior to starting to level will insure maximumenjoyment of your trailer.

1. Inspect the area where the trailer will beparked. Select if possible an area that hasa firm prepared surface. Mostcampgrounds provide this type of parkingarea for trailers.

2. Select an area that is level or as near tolevel as possible.

3. Use a carpenters level on the frame todetermine where to place blocks to level theframe.

4. Level from side to side first. Place planksunder the low side tires and drive the trailerforward until the tires are resting on theplanks. Check that the frame is level fromside-to-side. Add or remove blocking asrequired to level the frame.

5. Place chocks in front of and behind thetires to prevent trailer movement.

6. Place planks under the hitch jack (trailer)and landing gear (fifth wheel) to support thepads.

7. Unhook tow vehicle (Refer to Section 4.1).

8. Extend or retract hitch jack or landing gearto level the frame. Use a carpenters levelto be sure.

Hitch Jack

Landing Gear

LEVELLING

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Fifth Wheel and Trailer

9. Extend stabilizer jacks to support the corners ofthe frame. Do not carry the weight of the traileron the jacks. Add blocks or planks under thejacks if required to prevent sinking into soft soil.

10. Check that the frame is not twisted by checkingthat all doors, drawers, etc. open and closeeasily. Adjust stabilizer jacks to eliminatetwisting.

11. Attach and connect all utilities as appropriate.

12. Reverse the above procedure when preparing toleave.

STABILIZER JACKS

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Make sure travel locks are removedbefore extending the slide-out.

Make sure travel locks are fastenedsecurely before moving the trailer.

WARNING TRAVEL LOCKS (TYPICAL)

IMPORTANTThe screw shaft that extend/retract the slide-outare run by a 12-volt motor. When operating theslide-out, make sure the batteries are fullycharged.

3. To Extend:Be sure that there are no obstructions inside oroutside the unit. Press and hold the controlswitch until room is fully extended. Make sureit is fully extended so that all weather seals willbe in their proper alignment. Release thecontrol switch when the room is fully extended.

NOTEThe system has an internal lead sensingcapability that stops the motor when the

slide-out is full in or out.

CAUTIONNever move your trailer with the slide-outextended. Severe damage could result.

Before moving the trailer, the slide-out mustbe securely retracted and all travel locks

fastened.

4. To Retract:Be sure that there are no obstructions inside oroutside the trailer that would prevent easyoperation. Press and hold the control switchuntil the room is back in place. Install thetravel locks and prepare the rest of the trailerfor travel.

5. Set-Up:Service by a professional, adjustments, regularmaintenance and replacement of weather sealsas needed will extend the life and comfort ofyour slide-out unit.

Make very sure that everyone is standing clear ofthe interior and exterior path of the slide-out as

you extend or retract it.

WARNING

CONTROL PANEL

7.3 SLIDE OUT ROOMA trailer may be equipped with a slide out room toprovide more living area for the occupants.Refer to theOperator's Manual in the Owner's InformationPackage for detailed instructions.

7.3.1 SLIDE OUT ROOM OPERATIONFollow this procedure when using slide out room:

1. Be sure that trailer is properly levelled andsupported with stabilizing jacks. See Section7.2.

IMPORTANTIf the unit s not properly levelled before

extending the room, the slide out mechanismmay bind and be damaged.

2. Before operating slide out:a. If this is the first time you are operating the

slide-out,review the instructions that youreceived from your dealer at the time ofdelivery.

b. Make sure there is adequate space beside yourtrailer for the slide-out room to be extended.

c. Remove the travel locks on slide unit.d. Check the interior of the slide-out to make sure

there are no obstructions on the floor or leaningagainst the walls. Close all cabinet doors.

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6. Seals:Cracked and worn weather seals may allowmoisture and dirt to enter your trailer and causepremature deterioration of the interior. Check theseals carefully in fall and in spring and have themreplaced if necessary.

Extensive travel and use in severe weatherconditions may cause a more rapid deteriorationof some components, especially weather seals.

7.3.2 SLIDE OUT ROOM MANUALOPERATIONThe slide out room can be manually retracted in caseof system failure. Refer to the Operator's Manual inthe Owner's Information Package for detailedinstructions.

MANUAL OPERATION USING 1" WRENCH

7.4 SLIDE OUT ROOM TROUBLESHOOTING

1. General Maintenance:Always disconnect battery cable before workingon slide-out system.

2. Low Power:a. The most common cause of malfunction is

low battery voltage. To ensure adequatepower, take the following steps:

b. Connect your shoreline to an external 120-volt power source. This will activate theconverter and charge the battery.

c. Reduce the electrical load to a minimum byshutting off all 12-volt lights and appliances.

3. Sticking or Binding:a. If the trailer is not levelled and stabilized

properly, the tracking system may bind.Make sure the trailer is level and stable.Level the trailer prior to extending the slide,to ensure it works smoothly.

b. If the slide-out has been in one position(retracted or extended) the seals may havea tendancy to stick. DO NOT usepetroleum products on these seals as theycan cause premature seal deterioration.

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7.5 PROLONGED OCCUPANCYTrailers are generally designed for recreational andshort-term occupancy. In case of extended occu-pancy there are a few things regarding humidity andcondensation that you should be aware of. Exces-sive moisture inside the trailer can accumulate andmay damage the trailer. Moisture condensing on thewindows is a sure sign that the humidity inside yourtrailer is too high. To reduce moisture inside yourtrailer we suggest the following:

1. Ventilation:Provide adequate ventilation at all time, openwindows and vents. This will allow fresh air toflow through and reduce the moisture content.

2. Reduce Moisture:Reduce moisture released inside the trailer.Run the bathroom fan when using the bathroomor shower and turn on the range hood fan whilecooking. This will remove unnecessary moisturefrom your trailer. Hang wet towels and swimwear outside the trailer to dry.

3. De-Humidifier:Install a de-humidifier to remove excess mois-ture inside the trailer. This is particularly true incold weather. Removing moisture from the airbefore it condenses on a cold outside surfaceworks best. Turning the heat up will onlyincrease the heating load on the furnace and fuelconsumption.

4. Storm Windows:Install storm windows to reduce condensation onthe windows and reduce heat loss.

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8 SAFETY EQUIPMENT OPERATIONTriple E has made every effort to design the trailer to promote safe travel, use and occupancy. In addition,it has several pieces of safety equipment that the users should be aware of and trained it their use. Reviewthese instructions with all new people prior to using the trailer.

8.1 FIRE PREVENTION

Fires can be started in a variety of ways including but not limited to careless smoking, malfunction ofappliances or equipment, flammable material on hot surfaces, etc. Fires are best prevented rather than putout. Prevent but anticipate what to do if they occur. Review the following sections with everyone on aregular basis.

8.1.1 FIRE SAFETY TIPS

1. Establish and maintain good housekeepingpractices. Never allow combustible materials toaccumulate. Make sure you store flammableliquids in approved containers in a well-venti-lated space.

2. Formulate a plan for escape from the vehicleshould an emergency arise. It is particularlyimportant that the escape plan be rehearsedwith everyone, especially children, who will beusing the trailer.

3. Make sure you have charged fire extinguishersreadily accessible.

4. Avoid using flammable products in the trailer.5. Never smoke in bed or when relaxing on the

couch.6. Do not overload electrical outlets.7. Do not leave cooking food unattended.8. Keep children away from electrical outlets and

LP gas controls.9. Never use matches to check for LP gas leaks.10. If there is a fire, get everyone out of the trailer.

If possible, use your fire extinguisher. Close allLP gas valves if possible. Call the fire depart-ment and stay a safe distance away from yourunit. Do not re-enter your trailer until the fireofficials declare that its safe to do so.

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8.1.2 FIRE EXTINGUISHER

1. Operation:a. Stay at least 6 feet away from the fire and

near an exit. The chemical from the fireextinguisher will shoot at least 10 feet.Stay close to the floor to avoid heat andfumes.

b. Break the seal; grasp the fire extinguisherfirmly holding it in an upright position.

c. Press the white button. Aim at the base ofthe fire spraying the entire base area. Don'tspray at the smoke or flames.

d. After the fire is out, watch for “flashback”.e. Discharge the fire extinguisher entirely and

get it recharged or replaced immediately.f. For additional information, check in the

manual provided with the Fire Extinguisher.

2. Function:a. Fire extinguishers are designed to put out a

fire in its initial stages. Once a fire is out ofcontrol and you cannot get within ten feet, itis probably too big to fight with your extin-guisher.

b. Do not discharge your fire extinguisher totest it. Once it is discharged even for a fewseconds it will lose pressure and becomeuseless.

c. Check the pressure indicator on your fireextinguisher periodically. Record theinspection date on the tag provided. If itloses pressure, the dry chemical cannot bedischarged effectively. If the pointer doesnot indicate in the green, replace theextinguisher immediately.

Read the side of the fire extinguisher forspecific information regarding regularinspections of the fire extinguisher.

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FIRE EXTINGUISHER

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8.2 EMERGENCY ESCAPE

Each trailer is designed with an alternate emergency exit via a window in the sleeping area.

1. Emergency Exit:Release red latches on the emergency egress windowand push out the window. (The egress window hashinges on top).

2. When window is not being used as an emergency exit,it functions as any other window to provide ventilation.

3. Formulate a plan for escape from the vehicle should anemergency arise. It is particularly important that theescape plan be rehearsed with everyone, especiallychildren, who will be using the trailer.

4. Do not leave the emergency exit open while the vehicleis in motion.

EMERGENCY EXIT LATCHES

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8.3 ALARMSEach trailer is equipped with an LP Gas and a smokealarm as standard safety equipment. Keep all alarmsin good working order. Recurring alarm(s) indicate theslow accumulation of LP gas or smoke. Have anauthorized service center check system and identifysource. Correct problem before resuming use of unit.

8.3.1 LP GAS ALARMThis alarm is located in the lower portion of the trailerand sounds when there is an unsafe level of gas in theair.When the alarm sounds:

a. Follow instructions on safety sign next to stoveand air out vehicle to silence alarm.

b. Have a qualified service personnel find the leakand correct the problem before using unitagain.

c. Refer to section 10, LP Gas System.

TOPAZ

IF YOU SMELL GAS1. Extinguish any open flame, pilot lights and all smoking

material.2. Do not touch electrical switches.3. Shut off thegas supply at the container valve(s) or gas

supply connection.4. Open doors and other ventilating openings.5. Leave the area until the odour clears.6. Have the gas system checked and leakage source

corrected before using again.

WARNING

8.3.2 SMOKE ALARM

SMOKE ALARM

This Smoke alarm is located on the ceiling andsounds whenever there is an unsafe level of smokein the trailer.Always use exhaust fan over the stove whencooking.

When the smoke alarm sounds:a. Exit the unit imediatly.b. Correct and eliminate the smoke source.c. Open doors, vents and windows to air out

vehicle and silence alarm.d. Check alarm on a regular basis. Check

when removing from storage, before tripsand weekly thereafter. Depress centerbutton to test alarm electronics. Testalarm sensor by blowing smoke (from safe,fire-free source) past sensor. If alarm doesnot sound when testing, determine sourceof problem and correct or replace alarm.

e. Do not remove battery to silence alarm.When alarm “beeps” every minute, batteryis weak and must be replaced. Do notallow battery to go dead. Be sure toreplace with recommended battery. Testafter battery is replaced.

f. Clean and vacuum opening on smoke alarmonce a month.

g. Do not try to repair alarm. Replace it.h. Smoke alarms are not perfect and do not

respond in all situations. The best safe-guard is fire prevention.

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SHORELINE STORAGE COMPARTMENT (TYPICAL)

Do not connect the external power cord until youhave checked with the owner/attendant of thecampground as to proper polarity and grounding.

Improper grounding or reverse polarity can causecomponent failure, injury or death.

To connect your trailer to an external power source,pull the cord through the cord hatch and plug it intothe proper receptacle. Always ensure some slackis present in the cable.

WARNING9 ELECTRICALSYSTEMS

Your Topaz trailer is equipped with two electricalsystems operating on separate voltages - a 12 Volt DCSystem and a 120 Volt AC System.

The 12 Volt DC System draws its power from the trailerbattery.

The 120 Volt AC System operates from the outsideshoreline connection. It also provides power to theconverter to provide power to the battery and all 12 volt

circuits.

9.1 120 VOLT AC SYSTEMWhen connected to an outside electrical utility suchas that provided by most campgrounds the convertersupplies 12V power and also charges the trailerbattery.

Some equipment, however, depends entirely on 120volts from an outside connection. These include:

1. Roof Air Conditioners2. Refrigerator (when set to 120 volt)3. Microwave Oven4. All 120 Volt Electrical Outlets5. Coffee Maker

9.1.1 EXTERNAL POWER CORD(SHORELINE)

The external utility power cord (also called the “shore-line”) is stored in a compartment on the outside(location varies) of the trailer.

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9.1.2 120-VOLT CIRCUIT BREAKERSRefer to the Operator's Manual in the Owner'sInformation Package for detailed instructions.The breaker panel protects all 120-volt equipmentand components in the trailer from overload, from ashort in the wiring or a short in the componentitself. This cuts off the flow of electricity in thesystem and prevents damage or fire.

If a breaker “trips”, allow a brief “cool down” periodand then reset the breaker by turning it OFF andthen ON. If a breaker “trips” again and again, thiscould mean that there is a short in the wiring or inthe equipment and both should be checked andserviced.

There is a singular 30-amp panel switch whichprotects the entire electrical system. Becomefamiliar with the locations of the main 120v breakerand check it first if electrical problems should beexperienced.

BATTERY LOCATION

120-VOLT CIRCUIT BREAKERS ELECTRICAL PANEL SHOWN

9.2 12 VOLT DC SYSTEMThe DC voltage system in your trailer consists of thefollowing main components:1. The RV deep draw battery.2. The circuit fuses.3. Associated wiring and power circuits.

9.2.1 TRAILER BATTERYThe trailer battery acts as a power reservoir for all 12volt circuits in the trailer including:

1. Trailer brake-away system2. Water pump3. System monitor4. Optional slide-out room motor

This battery is a “deep cycle” RV battery designed toprovide power over a long period of time and to standup under the frequent drain and recharge conditionsof a camping vehicle.

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9.2.2 12 VOLT CIRCUIT FUSESAll 12-volt circuits are protected by either a circuitbreaker or a fuse in the control panel. When abreaker trips or a fuse blows, shut off all electricalloads on the affected circuit and reset the breaker orreplace the fuse with a new one of the same amper-age. The label on the panel identifies both the fuseamperage and the applicable circuit.

The fuse panel is located next to the circuit-breakerpanel, in the kitchen.

9.2.3 BATTERY MAINTENANCERV batteries are reservoirs of 12-volt electricalenergy. Whenever energy is removed from thebattery it has to be replaced in order for the batteryto continue functioning. This energy is restored bythe tow vehicle engine alternator whenever the towvehicle engine is running or by the RV chargingsystem when plugged into a 120-volt power source.

1. Problems:Two conditions can destroy the function of abattery. One is called sulphating in which alayer of sulphate crystals collect on the leadplates inside the battery. This can happen whena battery is discharged and not used for a longperiod of time (30 days or more) especiallyduring warm weather. This situation requiresreplacement of the battery. The second isfreezing. A battery must be kept at almost fullcharge to prevent the liquid electrolyte inside thebattery from freezing.

2. Prevention:a. Disconnect the battery cables during long

periods of storage.b. Hook up a battery charger at least once a

month during long periods of storage.

3. Long Term Storage:If you do not intend to use your trailer for a longerperiod of time it might be a good idea to removethe battery from the trailer and store it in a cooldry location on a wood or rubber pad.

4. Additional maintenance suggestions:a. Check the external condition of the battery

monthly. Look for cracks in the cover andcase.

b. Make sure battery is always securelyfastened down.

c. Make sure battery clamps are tight and freeof corrosion.

Do not allow battery electrolyte to contact skin,eyes, fabrics, or painted surfaces. The electro-lyte is a sulphuric acid solution which could causeserious personal injury or property damage.Wear eye protection when working with batteries.

WARNING

FUSE PANEL

FUSES USED IN 12 VOLT SYSTEM

BlownGood

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d. Keep the battery and terminals clean.Accumulations of acid film and dirt maypermit current to flow between the terminalsand discharge the battery.

e. To clean the battery, wash it with a dilutedsolution of baking soda and water to neu-tralize any acid present, then flush withclean water. Foaming around terminals oron top of the battery is normal acid neutrali-zation.

f. Dry the cables and terminals before rein-stalling them, and don't use grease on thebare metal inside the cable terminals toprevent corrosion. Grease is an insulator.Electricity will not flow through it. A plasticignition spray will protect the terminals afteryou have cleaned and reinstalled them.

g. Whenever battery is removed and replacedmake sure the positive and negative cablesare attached to the correct terminals.(Positive to positive and negative to nega-tive). The same is true when using a“booster battery” or a charger. If you use a“fast charger”, disconnect the cables fromyour battery. Do not attempt to recharge afrozen battery.

h. If you do not have a maintenance-freebattery, check the battery fluid level and fillwith distilled water if necessary. Do notoverfill.

i. Have the specific gravity of the battery fluidchecked when you have your vehicleserviced.

Remove rings, metal watchbands, and othermetal jewellery before working around a battery.Use caution when using metal tools. If the toolcontacts the battery terminals or metal con-nected to them, a short circuit could occur whichcould cause personal injury or fire.

NOTEMake sure you don't allowany baking soda solution toget into the battery. Thiscan neutralize the batteryacid.

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WARNING

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9.2.4 BATTERY CONDITION METER

On your control panel you will find a gauge whichtells you the level of charge in your trailerbattery.Press and hold the Levels Test button andread the L.E.D. lights to identify the battery chargecondition.

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WIRING HARNESS

Trailer

Fifth Wheel

9.3 TRAILER WIRINGCONNECTOR

Your trailer is ready for towing. It has a wiringconnector plug at the front for quick hook-up.

Refer to the labeled diagram (Refer to Section 4.5 forplug wiring diagram) of the various terminals in theplug. These are standard for all 7-pin trailer plugs.

BATTERY CONDITION METER

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9.4 ELECTRICAL SCHEMATICS (TYPICAL)

30 Amp Service

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9.5 FUSE PANELS

9.5.1 12 VOLT DC

12-VOLT FUSE PANEL

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9.5.2 30 AMP AC

120-VOLT CIRCUIT BREAKER PANEL

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10 PROPANE GAS SYSTEMLP (Liquefied Petroleum) gas is a colorless gascompressed into liquid form for easy transportationand storage. It is the energy source for your range,oven, furnace, water heater, and an alternate sourcefor your refrigerator.

It is an excellent fuel source and both safe andeconomical when used properly.

CAUTIONThese instructions are provided as ageneral guideline only and may not becomplete. To ensure proper service andsafety, always take your trailer to anauthorized Triple E service center.

10.1 SAFE USE OF LP GAS

The LP gas system is designed and built to adhereto federal government and industry regulationrequirements.

Many safety devices and backup systems havebeen built in to assure complete safety. Some ofthese include: tank overflow valves, LP gas detec-tor, and carbon monoxide (CO) detectors. As well,LP gas contains an odor additive so that it can bemore easily detected.

Observe the following precautions for the safe useof LP gas.

1. Familiarize yourself with the odor of LP gas. Ifyou suspect a leak, turn off the LP gas supplyimmediately and determine the source of theleak with the help of qualified service personnel.

2. Do not tamper with any part of the LP gassystem, piping or regulator. Service andmaintenance should be performed only bequalified personnel.

3. Do not use natural gas in a LP gas system.

4. Check the entire system for leaks every timethe tanks are filled. Take time regularly toinspect the system for leaks.

5. Turn off the LP gas supply valve when notusing it.

6. The tank supply valve is designed to be tight-ened by hand only. If the valve requires awrench for tightening it is defective and shouldbe replaced.

7. Tanks should never be filled above the 80 %level. LP gas requires room to expand.

8. Make sure all appliance vents are open and freeof obstruction when using the LP gas system.

9. Do not lock LP tank compartments. Industrystandards require that all LP gas valves mustbe readily accessible at all times in case ofemergency.

10. When drilling holes in walls or attaching objectsbe careful not to damage any gas lines orelectrical wiring.

10.2 HOW LP GAS WORKS

There are two types of LP (Liquefied Petroleum) gas- propane and butane. Both are compressed into aliquid for easier transportation and storage.Common names used are tank gas, bottle gas, orsimply LP.

In the tank, LP is in the form of a liquid under veryhigh pressure. As it is released, it changes to avapor or gas and expands to a much greater vol-ume.

Caution should be exercised when temperatures fallbelow -40 degrees C (-40 degrees F). You could bewithout propane at these lower temperatures.

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10.3 SELECTING FUEL TYPES

Butane burns at a much higher temperature thanpropane but will not change from a liquid to a gasat temperatures below 32 degrees F or 0 degreesC. Propane, on the other hand, burns at a lowertemperature and will continue to convert from aliquid to a gas at temperatures as low as -40degrees F or -40 degrees C.

LP dealers will normally provide only the type ofgas commonly used and suited to the climate intheir area. If you travel from a warmer part of thecountry to a colder area you may want to check tomake sure you have the right type of LP gas.

10.4 LP TANK SYSTEMThe LP gas containers are located at the front ofthe hitch frame for the trailer and in the front orside compartment for the fifth wheel model. Theyare accessible only from outside the vehicle. Thetank valve is located near the top center of thetanks next to the regulator. Before opening thesupply valve, make sure all controls for the variousappliances are in the OFF or PILOT OFF position.This is to prevent any LP gas from leaking into thetrailer. If your unit is equiped with a barbeque outletmake sure the outlet valve is closed and theprotector cap is in place.

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Fifth Wheel

TrailerTANK LOCATION DIAGRAMLP-Gas containers shall not be placed

or stored inside the vehicle. LP-Gascontainers are equipped with safetydevices that relieve excessive pres-sure by discharging gas to the atmo-sphere.

WARNING

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10.5 REFILLING LP TANKThe LP gas containers are located at the front of thehitch frame for the trailer and in the front or sidecompartment for the fifth wheel model.A warning label has been located near the LP-Gascontainer. This label reads:

Overfilling the LP-Gas container can result inuncontrolled gas flow, which can cause fire orexplosion. A properly filled container will containapproximately 80% of it's volume as liquid LP-Gas.To refill the propane tanks, simply attach to the fillvalve on the tank.

1. Never overfill the LP gas tank. Make sure yourvehicle is level when filling the tank.

2. Make sure all pilot lights are OFF before refuellingany of the gas tanks on your motorhome.

3. Do not smoke or have any open flame in the areawhere refuelling is taking place.

4. When testing for leaks in the LP system use a soapand water solution. Never use an open flame to testfor leaks.

5. Never fill the LP tank when either the engine or thegenerator is running.

6. Keep all protective covers and caps in place.

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Do not smoke when refuelling. Keep flames,sparks and smoking material away from fuel orflammable fumes.

Shut off all pilot lights and the control valve on theLP gas container when filling the container andduring travel. Always refill empty LP gas containeras soon as possible.

Do not overfill your LP gas container. Stop fillingwhen liquid appears at the overflow valve. (oftencalled a 10% valve) which contacts the liquid levelat 80% of container capacity allowing 20% forexpansion.

Check after each filling by opening the overflowvalve and bleed gas in well-ventilated area untilwhite liquid stops. Overfilling may cause damageto regulator and cause malfunction of LP gasappliances.

Remind the service attendant to use the 80%overflow valve when refuelling. Space must beleft in the tank for vaporization and expansion.

Never carry LP or any other flammable liquidcontainers in your trailer. Gases may inadvert-ently be discharged into the room which couldresult in fire or explosion.

LP gas stations are found in all parts of the country.Check with the Yellow pages in your telephone bookif you have trouble finding a station. Look under“Gas-Liquefied Petroleum-Bottled and Bulk” or”Propane”.

Fifth Wheel

TrailerLP GAS FILLING

WARNING

DO NOT FILL CONTAINER(S) TO MORE THAN 80%OF CAPACITY.

WARNING

WARNING

WARNING

WARNING

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After tank has been filled:

1. Check all container and line connections to besure they are tight. When testing for leaks, usesoapy water (never a match). LP gas has adistinct garlic odor.

2. If LP gas fumes are noticed at any time, thecause should be determined and correctedwithout delay. To prevent freeze-up, havemethyl alcohol added to your container.

3. Before opening the control valve at the LP gascontainer, check that controls for all gas appli-ances are in the off position. If this is not done,LP gas could accumulate inside the vehiclecreating a fire or explosion hazard.

4. LP gas is also potentially lethal if inhaled.

10.6 AIR IN THE LP TANKIf your LP appliances burn poorly or do not stay liteven though you are sure you have plenty of fuel,you may have air trapped in the tank. The air willeventually escape along with the LP gas but it maybe necessary that you have your tank purged of airby the LP gas dealer.

10.7 TRAVELLING LP GASIn some jurisdictions it is illegal to transport LP gason certain roads or through tunnels. Check state orprovincial regulations to make sure your trip will notbe halted or impeded unexpectedly as a result.

10.8 REGULATORThe trailer is equipped with a two-stage LPchangeover regulator. This offers the conven-ience of a changeover from empty to full LPtanks. See information package for details.

LP-Gas regulators must always be installedwith the diaphragm vent facing downward.Regulators that are not in compartments havebeen equipped with a protective cover. Makesure that the regulator vent faces downwardand that the cover is kept in place to minimizevent blockage that could result in excessivegas pressure causing fire or explosion.

During freezing weather it may happen that aregulator may freeze up. To help avoid thissituation, keep the control valve closed whennot in use even when the tank is empty. Thishelps prevent condensation from forming.Hold a light bulb near the regulator to thaw it

TOPAZ

Do not use an open flame or a heat lamp to thawout regulator.

REGULATOR (TYPICAL)

WARNINGWARNING

If moisture in the tank is a recurring problem, youmay ask your LP gas dealer to inject a smallamount of methyl alcohol into the tank to absorb themoisture.Liquid Petroleum vaporizes quickly and easily atwarmer temperatures. Under cold conditions thisprocess slows down dramatically. When largeamounts of fuel are required when using the fur-nace, for example, the fuel may not vaporize rapidlyenough to keep all the appliances going at a highlevel. In this case you may have to reduce theconsumption of fuel by lowering the temperaturesetting on the furnace, reduce the consumption ofhot water, turn up the temperature setting on yourrefrigerator or switch from LP to electric wherepossible.The regulator is preset. Do not attempt to adjust it.This should only be done by an authorized serviceoutlet. The regulator should not be exposed to theelements.If the LP gas components malfunction the possiblecause could be:1. The LP container may be overfilled.2. There may be impurities in the propane.3. The LP regulator could be defective

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10.9 LP GAS LEAKS

Notice the following label has been placed in thevehicle near the range area. If you ever smell LPgas in the vehicle or the detector alarm sounds,follow the instructions carefully.

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A standard LP gas detector has been installed inyour unit.

Refer to the Operator's Manual in the Owner'sInformation Package for detailed instructions.

The following warning label has been located in thecooking area to remind the user to provide an adequatesupply of fresh air for combustion.

Unlike homes, the amount of oxygen supply is limiteddue to the size of the recreational vehicle, and properventilation when using the cooking appliance(s) willavoid dangers of asphyxiation. It is especiallyimportant that cooking appliances not be used forcomfort heating as the danger of asphyxiation isgreater when the appliance is used for long periods oftime.

NOTEIt is not equipped with an automaticpropane shut-off valve.

10.10 LP GAS DETECTOR

LP GAS DETECTOR

It is not safe to use cooking appliances for comfortheating.Cooking appliances need fresh air for safeoperation.Before operation:1. Open overhead vent or turn on exhaust fan.2. Open window.

WARNING

IF YOU SMELL GAS1. Extinguish any open flame, pilot lights and all smoking

material.2. Do not touch electrical switches.3. Shut off thegas supply at the container valve(s) or gas

supply connection.4. Open doors and other ventilating openings.5. Leave the area until the odour clears.6. Have the gas system checked and leakage source

corrected before using again.

WARNING

Do not bring or store LP gas containers, gasoline,or other flammable liquids inside the vehiclebecause a fire or explosion may result.

WARNING

Do Not use portable fuel burning equipment,including wood and charcoal grills and stovesinside the Recreational Vehicle. The use of thiskind of equipment can cause fires orasphyxiation.

WARNING

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11 WATER/PLUMBINGSYSTEMYour trailer is designed with fresh water, greywater, black water tanks and associated plumbingto handle all of the water and waste requirements.Review this section carefully to understand eachsystem and how they function together.

11.1 FRESH WATER SYSTEMThere are two sources for fresh water in your trailer:

1. A water tank located within your trailer.2. By connecting to “city water” by means of a

water hose.

Both can supply water to the sink, shower, bath-room toilet and the water heater.

The water system built into your trailer provides fullservice similar to the system used in your home. A12-volt self-priming pump draws water from thefresh water storage tank to all cold faucets and thewater heater. An automatic pressure switch,located in the water pump maintains a positive linepressure.

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WATER SYSTEM INTAKES

11.1.1 FRESH WATER TANK FILLINGPROCEDURE

1. Insert water hose into the fresh water inlet.2. Open source of water supply valve.3. When the tank is close to full, check for overflow

at the overflow drain. Turn the supply off as soonas water flows from the drain.

FRESH WATER TANK INLET

IMPORTANTIf you are starting from a dry system or if somefaucets have been open during the tank fillingprocedure, you may want to slowly open allfaucets one at a time to allow any trapped air toescape from the system.

11.1.2 WATER PUMP

The water pump is designed to supply water fromthe fresh water tank to the various areas of yourtrailer on demand. When the water pump switch isturned on and a faucet is opened, the pump comeson automatically and pressurizes the system.

11.1.3 WATER PUMP SWITCHThe master switch for the water pump is located onthe moniter panel. When this switch is in the onposition, the pump will automatically activate whenany faucet, shower or toilet is being used.

It is recommended that the pump switch be turnedoff whenever leaving the trailer for any period of timeor while driving. A slow leak in a faucet or connec-tion could drain both the water tank and the battery.

WATER PUMP SWITCH

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11.1.4 WATER PUMP FILTERBefore water can enter the various outlets in yourtrailer it has to flow through a water filter. This filteris mounted on the water pump.

Check the water filter periodically and clean orreplace it at least annually to assure a clean supplyof water.

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11.1.6 WATER PUMP INITIAL START-UP

1. Make sure all drain valves are closed includingthe water heater drain plug.

2. Turn water pump switch off.

3. Fill water tank.

4. Open faucets, both hot and cold.

5. Turn pump switch on.

6. Close each faucet (cold and hot) as soon aswater flows steadily.

7. Check to see that pump stops after all faucetsare closed.

8. Pump is now ready for automatic operation. Itwill start whenever a faucet is opened.

9. Refill fresh water tank.

ACCESS FITTINGS

CITY FRESH

WATER PUMP & WATER FILTER

11.1.5 WATER SYSTEM ACCESSThe water system is designed with 2 fittings on theside of the trailer. Use the fresh water fill to fill thefresh water tank and the city water fitting to attach awater hose for using city water to supply and pressu-rize the system.

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11.1.7 WATER PUMPTROUBLESHOOTING

1. If pump will not prime:a. Make sure there is water in the tank.b. Make sure the battery is not run down.c. Make sure there are no kinks in the inlet

hose.d. Make sure all inlet fittings and connections

are air tight.e. Make sure water selector valve is set to

normal.f. Check for clogged lines.g. Check water filter. Replace if plugged.

2. If water pressure drops:a. Check faucets and connections for leaks.b. Make sure faucet aerators and filters are

clean.c. Make sure there is water in the tank.d. Make sure battery is not run down.

3. If pump runs when there is no apparentdemand for water:a. Make sure all faucets and fixtures are shut

off and are not leaking.b. Check all lines for leaks.c. Make sure there is water in the tank.d. Make sure no air is trapped in the system.e. Make sure the tank fill water selector valve

is set to normal.

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11.1.8 DISINFECTION OFWATER TANK

1. It is recommended that the fresh watersystems be disinfected:

a. When the system is new and has not beenused before.

b. When it's been in storage for a long periodof time.

c. In case it has become contaminated.

2. Disinfection instructions:a. Prepare a solution of 1/4 cup household

bleach to 1 gallon of water. Pour thissolution in to the water tank, 1 gallon forevery 15 gallons of tank capacity..

b. Fill the tank with fresh water. Run waterfrom each faucet, hot and cold, until youdetect a chlorine odor.

c. Leave this solution in the system for atleast 4 hours. If you wish to complete thisprocedure in 1 hour, double the concentra-tion of household bleach in your solution.

d. After the time has elapsed, drain and flushthe system with fresh water.

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11-4

11.1.9 EXTERNAL WATER SUPPLYThe external water source will supply your trailerwater system with water at city pressure when thewater pump is switched off.

1. Connecting:a. Turn water pump switch to off.b. Attach garden hose to city water

connection at water fill valve.c. Turn on external water supply.

IMPORTANTAfter connecting to the external water supply,

open the faucets in your trailer slowly andcautiously. Air trapped in the line can causethe water to splash into the sink. You may

want to drape a wash cloth over the faucet toprevent excessive splashing.

2. Turn the water heater by-pass valves to thenormal flow position to ensure that water entersthe heater and hot water is available for use.Water from the external supply is preventedfrom entering the water tank and the waterpump by means of a check-valve.

TOPAZ

CITY WATER CONNECTION

WATER HEATER BYPASS VALVE

IMPORTANTSome campgrounds have an excessively highwater pressure which can cause problems. Itis a good idea to get a pressure reducer fromyour RV centre and attach it to your incomingexternal water supply hose to ensure safepressure for your unit.

3. Disconnecting:a. Turn off the external water tap.b. Relieve water pressure on the line by

opening a faucet in the trailer.c. Disconnect hose from the trailer.d. Replace the protective plug back over the

water connection.

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11.2 WASTE SYSTEMS

11.2.1 GREY WATER - WASTE HOLDING TANK

The drainage from the kitchen sinks, bathtub andshower pan is collected in a separate grey waterholding tank. This tank has its own dump valve butties into the same termination outlet as the wasteholding tank.Drain grey water holding tank in the same way afterdraining the waste holding tank. This will rinse outany black water residue left inside the drain hose.

11.2.2 BLACK WATER - WASTE HOLDING TANKThe black water holding tank collects all the wastefrom the toilet and vanity sink. Before using yourwaste holding tank, deoderize it by adding onegallon water and a commercial holding tankdeoderizer through the toilet.

IMPORTANTIf grey water holding tank is allowed to

overfill, the overflow may back upthrough the bathtub/shower drain.

IMPORTANTIf the black holding tank is allowed to

overfill, the overflow may back upthrough the toilet drain.

TOPAZ

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11.2.3 DUMPING HOLDING TANKS

When dumping holding tanks:

1. Remove drain hose from storage compartment.

2. Remove dust cap from drain outlet. Attachdrain hose securely.

3. Place the other end of the hose securely into asewer dump inlet.

NOTEDo not open the grey water valve until black watervalve is closed. This will prevent any black wastesfrom entering the grey water tank. Grey water alsorinses out any black water residue from inside thedrain hose.

4. Make sure hose is lying flat. Open black watervalve with a quick pull. Move hose about gentlyto ensure flow of waste materials. When tankis empty, close valve.

5. After tank has been drained, run several gallonsof fresh water into the black water tank throughthe toilet. Open the dump valve to flush out anyresidual wastes. After the tank has beendrained again, close the valve.

6. Open grey water valve. Close after tank isempty.

7. Add an odor control chemical to the blackwater holding tank. These are available at anyRV center.

8. Rinse the sewer hose thoroughly and store.

9. Replace the dust cover securely.

IMPORTANTHolding tanks should be dumped before travelling toeliminate unnecessary weight while driving.

A. Grey Water B. Black Water

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DUMPING VALVES AND DUST CAP

STORAGE COMPARTMENT IN BUMPER

STORAGE COMPARTMENT IN SIDEWALL

AB

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TOPAZ

1. DO keep your holding tank clean using anycleaner approved for recreational vehiclesanitation systems.

2. DO add a special deodorizer or chemicaladditive approved for recreational vehiclesystems to sanitize and improve the tankaction.

3. DO keep your tank termination valve closed,permitting the tank to get as full as convenientbefore emptying. Failure to do so could allowsolids to build up in the tank and causeblockage.

4. DO keep both the tank termination valve(s) andthe drain cap tightly in place when travelling topermit use of the system when stopped whiletravelling.

5. DO use any soft, single-ply, non dyed,biodegradable toilet tissue.

6. DO open the bath vent to keep bathroom fresh.

7. DON'T put facial tissues, paper, permanent(automotive) anti-freeze, sanitary napkins, orhousehold toilet cleansers in your holding tank.

8. DON'T put anything solid in your holding tankwhich can scratch or damage the plastic.

11.2.4 DO'S AND DON'TSHOLDING TANKS

11.2.5 USING ON-SITE SEWERHOOK-UPS

When staying at a campsite for any period of timeand providing that sewer hook-ups are available, thesewer hose may be attached and left in place for theduration of the stay.

However, make sure that dump valves are left closedand are opened only once the tanks are full or whenyou leave the campsite. This will keep solid wastesin suspension allowing them to drain with the liquidswhen the valves are opened. If the valves are leftopen, the liquid wastes will drain leaving the solidsto collect on the floor of the black water holding tankfloor.

Should this happen, close the valves, fill the tankwith water and drive a few miles. A 1/4 cup ofdishwater detergent added to the tank will help toclean it. The motion of the vehicle and the water willdislodge the wastes and allow the tank to bedrained in the normal manner.

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11.2.6 HOLDING TANKLEVEL INDICATORS

The holding tank levels may be checked on thecontrol panel. Press the test switch to check thelevel in each tank.

11.2.7 TANK CAPACITIESFor fresh water and holding tank capacities see theCargo Carrying Capacity decal located on theexterior of the unit on the left side near the front ofthe unit.* Fresh water tank capacity includes waterheater.

11.3 PLUMBING SYSTEM OPERATION

11.3.1 WATER HEATER

Your trailer is equipped with either a 6 gallon or a 10gallon water heater. The water is heated in one oftwo ways:1. With an LP gas burner.2. With a 120-volt heating element.See section 6.8 for operating instructions.

IMPORTANTBe sure there is water in the hot water tank toprevent burning out the heating element when thepower is turned on.

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TANK LEVEL INDICATORS

11.3.2 TOILETRefer to manufacturer's operating instructionsincluded in information package for more details.

Troubleshooting:

1. Water keeps running into the bowl:Check to see that the foot pedal returns all theway up. Sticking may be caused by foreignmaterial on the waste valve blade or blade sealat the bottom of the bowl. If problem persists,replace water valve.

2. Toilet leaks, there is water on the floor:If the leak is in back of the toilet, check thewater supply line connection and refer to theinstallation instructions. If the leak is at thecloset flange area remove the toilet and checkthe closet flange seal. Replace the gasket sealif necessary.

3. Poor Flush:The levers must be held fully open during theflush. A good flush should be obtained within 2to 3 seconds. If the problem persists, removethe water supply line and check the watersupply. The water supply line flow rate shouldbe at least 10 liters per minute to ensure anadequate flush.

4. Build-Up:Depress the foot pedal just enough to add asmall amount of water in the bottom of the toiletbefore using. This will help to prevent a build-upof solids in the toilet.

11.3.3 SHOWERTo protect the surface of your ABS plastic showerpan, it is recommended that a rubber shower mat beplaced in the shower pan.

Use a non-abrasive cleaner to clean your showercompartment. Do not use highly concentrated orhigh acid content household cleaners, as these maydamage the shower compartment.

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TOPAZ

11.4 TYPICAL PLUMBING SCHEMATICS/DRAINAGE SYSTEM

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12-1

12 APPLIANCES AND INTERIOR FEATURES

12.1.2 OPERATING TIPS

1. The refrigerator should be cold before placingitems in it.

2. Try not to put warm or hot items in the refrigera-tor. Allow them to cool off first.

3. Do not pack refrigerator too full. To operateefficiently, the refrigerator needs air to circulate.

4. Use smaller containers to store items i.e. 1 litrerather than 4 litre.

5. Use containers that seal tightly.

6. Use crumpled paper between containers toprevent movement while traveling.

Refer to the operator's manuals in the informationpackage for more detailed instructions if required foreach appliance, component or system.

The refrigerator in your trailer can be operated oneither:

1. 120-volt AC electric.2. LP gas with 12-volt ignition.

It is very important that your trailer be level whenparked so that the refrigerator will operate safelyand properly.

When you park your trailer, normal levelling forcomfortable living will usually place it within satis-factory level limits. Use a level to make sure.

When the refrigerator is not being used for anylength of time the temperature setting should beturned to the lowest level and switched to off. Thedoor should be opened slightly to allow for aircirculation and to prevent any odor or mold build-up.

CAUTIONIf the trailer is parked off-level by 3degrees or more side-to-side or 6degrees or more front-to-back formore than an hour, permanentdamage could be done to the refrig-erator.

12.1 REFRIGERATOR

Refer to the Operator's Manual in the Owner'sInformation Package for detailed start-up, operatingand shut-down instructions.

12.1.1 OPERATING INSTRUCTIONS

TOPAZ

REFRIGERATOR

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12.1.3 EXTERIOR REFRIGERATORACCESS

This vent allows access to the refrigerator forcleaning, inspection, maintenance and service. It isa good practice to open the compartment door oncein a while and make sure that the area is free of anydebris that might hinder air circulation.

Both the range and the oven operate on LP gas.The oven has a pilot light which when lit can beused to start the oven at any time.

12.2 RANGE AND OVEN

Never use the range burners to heat the interiorof your motorhome. Heed the warning label in the

cooking area.

Always make sure you have adequate ventilationwhen the burners are operating.

12.2.1 LIGHTING BURNERSTo Light The Range:1. Turn the burner control knob to “on”.2. Turn the piezo ignition knob until the burner

ignites. If the burner does not ignite within 10seconds, turn the burner control knob off: wait 5minutes and try again.

3. Turn the control knob to adjust the level of theflame to the desired level.

TOPAZ

Turn the igniter knob immediately afterturning the burner on to prevent a gas

build-up. Excess gas can cause a flare-upwhen lit.

KITCHEN

EXTERIOR REFRIGERATOR COMPARMENT

WARNING

WARNING

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12-3

12.2.2 SAFETY TIPS

1. Always wait 5 minutes before relighting range/oven to allow gas to dissipate.

2. The range/oven is not designed for and shouldnever be used as a space heater.

3. Do not operate range/oven while travelling orwhile refuelling your vehicle at a gasolineservice station. The burners may ignite gaso-line fumes.

4. Do not leave the top burners on without autensil for any length of time. Overheating ofthe grates may cause the porcelain enamel tocrack and chip.

5. Any time the range/oven is in operation, thepower range hood fan should be operating tohelp ensure proper ventilation.

12.2.3 RANGE HOODThe 12-volt range hood fan should be used when-ever the range or oven is being used. This will aidin removing cooking odors, steam, fumes and helpkeep the air fresh. Keep the filter clean by wash-ing it regularly with hot soapy water. Let it drythoroughly before replacing it.

12.2.4 LIGHTING OVEN PILOT1. Make sure all range and oven valves are in

the off position.

3. Press and turn the oven control knob to thepilot on position. This opens the gas flow tothe oven pilot.

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IMPORTANTIf the oven has not been used for

some time it may take a few minutesfor the gas to reach the pilot.

4. Open the oven door and light oven pilot. Youwill notice a small flame at the oven element.

Knob

Pilot Light

OVEN PILOT LIGHT

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12.2.5 OPERATING OVEN CONTROLTo adjust the oven temperature, push in the knoband turn it counterclockwise to the desired tempera-ture setting. There may be a delay of 45 secondsbefore the burner is ignited. This is normal. Tokeep the oven temperature at the set temperature,the burner will cycle on and off.

12.2.6 SHUT DOWN INSTRUCTIONSWhen finished using the oven, turn the oven controlknob back to pilot on. The pilot light will remain onand the oven can be used at any time by simplyadjusting the temperature setting.

When travelling or when the trailer is not in use forany length of time, turn the oven control knob offand turn off the main gas supply.

12.3 MICROWAVE OVENRefer to the Operator's Manual in the Owner'sInformation Package for detailed instructions.Turn selector switch to microwave to provide powerto microwave. Turn back to water heater whenmicrowave use is finished.

TOPAZ

MICROWAVE OVEN

SELECTOR SWITCH

Operating Tips:1. Do not attempt to operate microwave oven with

the door open since this can result in harmfulexposure to microwave energy.

2. Do not defeat or tamper with the safety inter-locks.

3. Do not place any object between the oven frontface and the door or allow soil or cleaner residueto accumulate on sealing surfaces.

4. Do not operate the oven if it is damaged. Do notoperate if the oven door does not close properly(bent) or there is damage to the hinges andlatches (broken or loosened) or the door sealsand sealing surfaces.

5. The oven door should not be adjusted or repairedby anyone except properly qualified servicepersonnel.

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MONITOR PANEL

12.4 MONITOR PANEL

The monitor panel covers several systems in yourtrailer:

1. Battery:Indicates the level of charge in the trailerbattery.

2. Fresh Water:Indicates the amount of fresh water in thefresh water tank.

3. Holding Tanks:Indicates the amount of waste in the greywater and black water holding tanks.

To check the level for any of the systems, pressthe levels test button and read the level.

TOPAZ

CAUTIONDo not allow the holding tanks to

overfill as this could cause waste toback up through the toilet or the

bathtub/shower drain.

IMPORTANTThe master switch for the water pump is

also located on the monitor panel.

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12.5 LP GAS FURNACE

The furnace should not be operated during travel.The LP gas should be turned off at the LP containerwhenever the trailer is operated on public roads.

The furnace is controlled either by a thermostat or ifthe unit has the air conditioner option by the climatecontrol center. This device located in the galleyarea or bedroom, controls the furnace, roof airconditioner, or air conditioner heat strip. Pleaseconsult the climate control centre manual forinstructions on operation.

The furnace has no pilot light but is ignited by adirect spark ignition system. No manual lighting isrequired.

1. To Start Up:a. Close the LP gas tank valve.b. Slide the thermostat switch from off to

heat.c. Set the thermostat above room temperature

to start the blower. There will be a slightdelay before the blower comes on. Allowthe blower to run for 5 minutes to purge thecombustion chamber.

d. Move thermostat lever below room tem-perature. The blower will continue runningfor about 2 minutes.

e. After the blower stops, open the LP gastank valve.

f. Set thermostat to desired temperature. Ifset above current room temperature, theblower will come on.

g. After about 30 seconds, the automaticignition device will light the burner. Do notattempt to light the burner manually.

h. There should be warm air coming from theheating ducts. If the burner fails to light,repeat steps a - g.

i. If the burner fails to ignite after 3 attempts,slide the thermostat to the off position,close the LP gas tank valve and contactyour dealer or a local RV service center.

2. To Shut Down:a. Slide the thermostat to the off position.b. Close the LP gas tank valve.

For additional information and instructions, refer tothe furnace manufacturer's manual.

TOPAZ

IMPORTANTAfter the initial start-up thefurnace will automatically cycleon and off as it delivers therequired heat. The thermostatshould be in the heat position.

COMFORT CONTROL

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12.6 ROOF AIRCONDITIONERS (OPTIONAL)

The roof air conditioners are controlled by theclimate control center. Adjust the control tocooling. Select the temperature and the fanspeed to suit your needs.

1. Maintenance:We recommend that the filters by cleaned orchanged at least every two weeks when theair conditioner is in operation. Do notoperate your air conditioner without the filterinstalled.

2. Cleaning and/or Changing Filters:a. Remove the filters by pressing the 2

retainer clips and remove the plasticgrill. The filter is kept in place by the 4corner pins.

b. Remove filters and wash them in warmsoapy water. If they are excessivelydirty, replace them with new filters.

c. Replace filters by removing the plasticgrill. Make sure the corner pins hold thefilter in place.

TOPAZ

12.7 TV ANTENNA (OPTIONAL)

The TV antenna on your trailer is easily raised,rotated through 360 degrees and lowered from insidethe trailer by turning the crank or rotating knob.

INTERIOR AIR CONDITIONER CEILING ASSEMBLY

TV ANTENNA CRANK

1. Raising the Antenna:Turn the elevating crank clockwise in the updirection until resistance is noticed. If equiped,turn the amplifier power switch on to receive thesignal.

2. Rotating the Antenna:After antenna is in the up position, grasp thecrank handle mounting plate on both sides andpull down. Rotate the antenna to a desiredposition for best reception.

3. Lowering the Antenna:Rotate the antenna until the pointer on therotating knob and the ceiling plate align. Pulldown on handle assembly and turn the crank inthe down (counterclockwise) direction until someresistance is noticed. The antenna is nowlocked in the travel position. As a reminder forfuture reference, count the number of turnsrequired to raise and lower the antenna. Nor-mally this will be about 13.

4. Turn amplifier power switch off.

CAUTIONMake sure antenna is always lowered com-pletely in the travel position. Leaving the an-tenna in a partially raised position during travelcan damage the gear mechanism.

Always align the directional handle to downbefore lowering the antenna.

Make sure the antenna does not touch anyoverhead electrical wires or any tree branches.

WARNINGWARNING

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12.8 ENTERTAINMENT SYSTEM(optional on some models)

a) Premium Stereob) Televisionc) Video Casette Playerd) TV antenna selectore) Exterior speaker selectorf) External speaker volume controlRefer to the Operator's Manual in the Owner'sInformation Package for detailed instructions.

ENTERTAINMENT SYSTEM

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CABLETrailer and Fifth Wheel

12.9 CABLE TV HOOK-UPSThe cable TV hook-up is located on the outside ofthe trailer. Raise the cover and connect the terminalfor the signal.A satellite prewire kit is located in the overheadcabinets. See your Dealer for more detailed informa-tion.

a

b

cd

e

f

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1. Sofa/Bed Conversion:The sofa converts into a bed. To convert tobed:a. Remove seat pillowsb. Lift the sofa seat up from the base.c. Pull forward until the back drops down to a

bed position.

To convert back to a sofa:a. Lift and push the sofa back against the

wall.

2. Booth Dinette:The standard booth dinette can be convertedinto a bed:a. Remove cushions.b. Lift table and remove the table legs.c. Drop table between seats so that the edge

of the table rests on seat edge supports.d. Arrange cushions to form a bed, placing

larger cushions in the center.

To convert back to a dinette, reverse the aboveprocedure.

12.10 SLEEPING FACILITIES

Do not use sleeping facilities while trailer is inmotion.

SOFA BED

BOOTH DINETTE

WARNING

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12.11 FRESH WATER TOILET

Refer to the Operator's Manual in the Owner'sInformation Package for detailed instructions.The toilet in your trailer is very much like the one inyour home except that it uses a much smalleramount of water for flushing. When the foot pedal isdepressed for flushing, a high velocity stream ofwater produces a swirl effect that should effectivelycleanse the toilet. If you wish, a deodorizing agentmay be used to eliminate any odors from the toilet.

1. Flushing the Toilet:a. Depress both foot control levers and hold

open during the flush.b. Release the levers. A small amount of

water should remain in the bowl.c. If you wish to add more water to the bowl,

depress the foot control just far enough toallow the water to flow and hold until youhave the desired level of water.

2. Operating Tips:a. Do not use facial tissue or regular house-

hold toilet tissue in the RV toilet. It will notdisinegrate properly and will cling to thesides and bottom of the holding tankmaking it hard to clean. The clinging tissuecan also short-circuit the terminals insidethe tank that indicate the holding tank levelat the monitor panel. Use only toilet tissueavailable at your RV center designed foruse in RV toilets.

b. Do not flush sanitary napkins or other nondissolving items down the toilet.

c. Do not use automotive anti-freeze orcaustic chemicals such as householdbleach in the toilet or holding tank. Thesecan damage plastic or rubber parts in thesystem.

TOILET3. Cleaning the Toilet:

The toilet should be cleaned regularly forsanitation and efficient operation.a. Clean the toilet using a mild bathroom

cleaner. Do not use caustic or abrasivecleansers. Do not allow cleaners to remainin the toilet bowl for any length of time.Plastic surfaces and seals could be dam-aged.

b. Dump and rinse the holding tank aftercleaning and flushing the toilet.

c. Add a bit of odor control chemical everyfew days to eliminate any possibility of odorin the bathroom.

d. If the operation of the flush valve becomesstiff, it may be lubricated with siliconespray. Turn off the water pump, drain allthe water from the toilet bowl and spraysilicone lubricant inside the flush valve.Operate the valve several times to makesure it is operating freely.

For instructions on preparing the toilet for coldweather storage, refer to the section on winterizing.

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12.12 ENTRY STEPEach trailer is designed with an extendable step thatprovides convenient access to the trailer. Release,pull step out and latch to use steps. Release, push inand latch prior to travelling.

Periodic maintenance including lubrication andcleaning are necessary to keep the step functioningproperly.

See manufacturer's manual for operating instructions.

STEP

SCREEN WINDOWS

12.13 SCREEN WINDOWS

The screen windows have been designed so thatthe screen may be removed. To remove thescreen, push it up and pull it.

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12.14 THERMOSTATICALLY CONTROLLED CEILING FAN

Your trailer may be equipped with athermostatically controlled ceiling fan to provide acontrolled air flow through the vehicle. Use thevent fan in conjunctions with an open window toprovide a flow of fresh air into the unit.

Use these controls:

1. In/Out:This rocker switch controls the rotationaldirection of the fan in the vent. Depress the INside of the switch for the fan to draw air intothe coach. Depress the OUT side for the fanto blow air out. The fan must always come toa complete stop before changing directions.

2. ON/OFF Fan Speed:This 4 position rotary switch controls thepower to the fan and the fan speed. Turn theswitch to its most counterclockwise positionto turn the fan off. Turn the switch to its first,second or third clockwise detents (Position 1,2 and 3 respectively) to set the fan speeds atlow, medium or high. The roof vent must beopen at least 3 inches or the internal safetyswitch will prevent the fan from coming on.

3. Vent Height:This knob controls the position of the venthood. Turn the knob clockwise to pull thehood down and close it. Turncounterclockwise to raise or open the hood.

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ROOF VENT

1 2

3 4

4. Thermostat:This rotary switch controls the set point for thesystem thermostat. Turn the knob to thedesired position. Moving the pointer to the redportion of the scale will increase thetemperature of the set point for the vent fan tocome on. To operate, the vent must be openand fan switch turned to either 'in' or 'out'.

5. Remote Control switch (optional)

a. Press the top of the rocker switch to turnthe fan on. Press the bottom of the switchto turn it off. Note - The roof vent must beopen at least 3 inches or the internalsafety switch will prevent the fan fromcoming on.

b. Press and hold the rocker switch to raiseor lower the roof vent lid to the desiredposition.

ROOF VENT REMOTE CONTROL SWITCHES

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13 CARE AND MAINTENANCE

13.1 EXTERIOR

1. Roof:The roof is made with a wood frame and con-structed in a wood truss type method. It isstrong enough to support the weight of anaverage adult should it become necessary torepair the roof or any of the roof mountedcomponents. It is not recommended to carrylarge heavy objects on the roof. The additionalstrain of the weight along with the movement ofthe vehicle could cause damage to the roof.Check the roof regularly, especially the sealantaround vents, air conditioners, body-to-roofseams, etc. for possible leaks. Any suspectedleaks should be repaired immediately. Anyleakage could result in damage to the interior ofthe trailer.

2. Underbody:Mud and dirt along with corrosive materialsused to control dust or ice on the roads canaccumulate underneath your trailer and causepremature deterioration and rusting. In addition,any build-up will add unnecessary weight to thevehicle. It is recommended that the undercar-riage and the entire underbody be rinsed andflushed every time the trailer is washed.

3. Washing, Waxing and Polishing:Damaging salts, calcium chloride, road tar, treesap, insects and other foreign material have away of accumulating on the body of your trailer.To reduce the harmful effects of these agents itis recommended that the trailer be washedfrequently and thoroughly using a mild soap andwarm water. Do not wash the exterior in directsunlight and never use hot water. Pressurewashers are not a good idea as they can loosendecals and sealants.

Waxing your RV is strongly recommended tocounter the effects of Ultra Violet exposure onthe exterior fiberglass parts.

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Carefully inspect all caulking around windows,doors, and vents as well as all other joints.Recaulk if necessary using the correct caulkingmaterial from your Triple E RV dealer.

CAUTIONNever use strong solvents orharsh abrasives on painted

surfaces.

4. Stripes and Decals:A few hints and precautions on care and main-tenance:a. Wash with plain soap and warm water.

Rinse thoroughly.b. Never wash with high-pressure washer at

close range. The force of the water can liftthe edges of the decals.

c. Do not use solvents. They can smear thecolors and damage the adhesive.

d. Never use lacquer thinner or paint ondecals.

5. Exterior Lighting:Before each trip, inspect all clearance lights,identification lights, marker lights, stop lights,turn signal lights and backup lights. Replaceburned-out bulbs immediately. Keep all lightlenses clean with soap and water.

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13.2 INTERIOR

Accumulations of dirt and dust not only detract fromthe appearance of the interior of your RV but willshorten the life of the carpets and fabrics. Regularcleaning and vacuuming is recommended.

1. Flooring:a) Carpet:See the information package for themanufacturer's care guide on how to clean soil, dirtand stains from the floor.b) Linoleum:Sweep or Vacuum regularly and wipe with a dampcloth or mop.c) Laminate Flooring:Sweep or Vacuum regularly and wipe with a dampcloth or mop.

2. Upholstery:Care should be taken when cleaning upholsterymaterials in your motorhome. Do not use just anycleaner or spot remover. Regular vacuuming andwiping with clear water will take care of moststains. Any major cleaning problems should bedone by professional cleaners. Cushion coversshould not be removed and dry cleaned. They arestain guard protected.

3. Spots and Stains:Most spots and stains can be removed by usingclean warm water. To keep the stain fromspreading, start from the outside of the stain andwork toward the center.

Stains such as lipstick, grease, ink or mustard arevery hard to remove and will probably require some

IMPORTANTDirect sunlight will cause fading of

upholstery and fabrics. To minimizethe effect, close drapes, blinds and

shades whenever possible.

professional advice or help.

4. Vinyl Fabrics:Vinyl should be cleaned with a soft, damp clothusing a mild detergent. Never use solvents of anykind on vinyl surfaces.

5. Draperies, Curtains and Bedspreads:These are made from a variety of fabrics and willrequire the help of professional cleaners. It shouldbe noted that most materials will probably shrinkby about five percent even when cleanedprofessionally.

6. Cabinetry:Only the finest wood products have been used inthe construction of your motorhome. To clean,use a soft cloth and a high quality wood finishcleaning product available from your Triple Edealer or other RV centers.The beauty of the wood is in the natural variationsin grain and density causing some differences incolor and shading.

7. Walls:As a rule, walls can be cleaned easily using warmwater and a mild soap. For easier cleaning ofaccumulated grime, a bit of rubbing alcohol maybe added to the water. Never use solvents orabrasives.

8. Solid Surface Counter Tops:The Solid Surface countertop is non-porous tomany household chemicals, stains wipe off witha sponge and soapy water. It is virtuallyimmune to stains, impact, water damage andfading caused by exposure to sunlight. If thestain persists use an abrasive householdcleaner and a Scotch-Brite pad. Even tougherstains disappear using fine grade (180-220 grit)sandpaper. Buffing afterwards with a Scotch-Brite pad will return the surface to its originalsatin luster.

9. Sinks:The acrylic sinks can be cleaned with warm waterand soap. Wipe dry to avoid streaks. For stubbornstains, a mild abrasive may be necessary. Alwayswork in the direction of the polish lines.

CAUTIONUse of water-based and detergent-based

solvent cleaners may cause excessiveshrinking. Water stains may become

permanent and unable to be removed withsolvent cleaning agents.

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10. Refrigerator:The cabinet interior should be cleaned regularly.Remove shelves and wash the lining withlukewarm water to which a mild soap may beadded. Dry thoroughly, especially around doorframe and door gasket. Warm water onlyshould be used to wash the cooling evaporator,ice trays and shelves. Never use strongchemicals or abrasive cleaning materials onany part of the cabinet. See manufacturer'sinformation.

11. Power Range Hood:The filter on your power range hood should beremoved, washed with detergent and hot water,rinsed and replaced after each trip. Beforereplacing the filter, wash the grease and col-lected dust from the inside hood surfaces with adamp cloth.

12. Range/Oven:a. General:

Regular cleaning with a warm detergentsolution and soft cloth will keep your rangelooking bright and new. This should bedone as soon as range cools.

b. Oven Interior:Clean as soon as possible after use whenthe oven is cool. Grease spatters that areallowed to become hard and baked onbecome very difficult to remove. Caremust be taken to avoid bending the thermalsensing element, which could cause avariation between the oven temperature andthe dial setting. If oven cleaners are used,protect aluminum gas tubing, thermostatsensing element and electrical componentsfrom the cleaners. Thoroughly rinse ovenwith a solution of one tablespoon vinegar toone cup of water and wipe dry.

c. Top Burners:Top burners (caps and grates) may becleaned with a detergent solution. If anyburner port should become clogged, cleanwith a toothpick. Never use pins or othermetal objects to clean the ports, as theymay become enlarged. If the burner iswashed in a sink, dry immediately byshaking off all excess water and lighting theburner until all water has evaporated.

13. Microwave:Consult owners manuals for detailed instruc-tions. Keep the door and inside of your micro-wave oven clean. No grease, soil or spattershould be allowed to build up. A build up of soilwill absorb microwave energy, just the same asthe food you are cooking and may increase thecooking time.a. When food spatters or spilled liquids adhere

to walls, wipe with a damp cloth. Milddetergents may be used if the oven getsvery dirty. The use of harsh detergents orabrasives is not recommended.

b. The outside oven surface should becleaned with soap and water, rinsed anddried with a soft cloth. To prevent damageto the operating parts inside the oven, watershould not be allowed to seep into theventilation openings.

c. If the control panel becomes wet, cleanwith a soft, dry cloth. Do not use harshdetergents or abrasives on control panel.When cleaning the control panel, leave theoven door open to prevent oven fromaccidentally turning on. After cleaningtouch cancel pad to clear display window.

d. It is necessary to remove the glass tray forcleaning. Wash the tray in warm sudsywater or in a dishwasher.

e. The roller ring and oven cavity floor shouldbe cleaned regularly to avoid excessivenoise. Simply wipe the bottom surface ofthe oven with mild detergent water orwindow cleaner and dry. The roller ringmay be washed in mild sudsy water ordishwasher. Cooking vapors collect duringrepeated use but in no way affect thebottom surface on roller ring wheels. Whenremoving the roller ring from cavity floor forcleaning, be sure to replace it in the properposition.

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14. Bathroom:a. General:

As a general rule, use warm water and mildsoap to clean walls and surfaces in yourbathroom. On glass doors and mirrors agood quality glass cleaner may be used.Harsh cleaners, detergents or abrasivesshould never be used.

b. Shower Compartment:Use a non-abrasive cleaner to clean yourshower compartment. Do not use highlyconcentrated or high acid contact house-hold cleaners, as these may damage theshower compartment.

c. Counter Tops and Lavoratory Sink :Use warm water and mild soap to clean thecounter tops and sink. Harsh cleaners,detergents or abrasives should never beused.

d. Toilet:For instructions on the care of the toilet,refer to the toilet manufacturer's manual.

15. Doors and Windows:Door locks and hinges should be lubricatedperiodically with powdered graphite to keepthem operating easily and to protect againstfreeze-up.

Windows should be cleaned using a good glasscleaner.

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14 STORING YOUR RVAll systems, components and appliances should beinspected and repaired prior to storage.

Checklist:

1. Park trailer as level as possible, end to end andside to side.

2. Ensure that battery has a full charge anddisconnect cables. Charge monthly.

3. Wash trailer. If exposed to road salts, theexterior and underside should be thoroughlywashed and flushed.

4. Remove all perishables and anything whichmay freeze (canned goods, medicine, etc.).Leave the refrigerator door open. Be surecontrols are turned off.

5. To ventilate living area, open drawers, cabinets,closets, etc..

6. Drain the holding tanks, toilet and living areawater system. Deodorize and allow to dry.Turn off the water heater. Drain fresh watertank and water heater. Winterize (to store)water system as detailed in Water SystemWinterization in Section 15.1.

7. Remove water filter and put inside where it willnot freeze.

8. Turn off LP gas tank valve.

9. Make sure furnace manual valve and thermo-stat are set at off, range/oven burners at off,fridge and oven at off.

10. Add RV anti-freeze (1/2 cup each) to thekitchen, bathroom and shower drains.

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15.1 WATER SYSTEMWINTERIZATION

1. Drain the fresh water tank by opening thefresh water tank drain valve.

2. When the fresh water tank is empty andwater stops running close the fresh watertank drain valve.

3. Open a water faucet and turn the water pump'ON' to drain water out of the hose connectingthe fresh water tank and the pump.

4. When air starts spitting out of the faucet turnthe water pump 'OFF'.

5. Open the drain/relief valve located at thewater heater to drain the water heater. (Seethe water heater Owner Manual in the OwnerInformation Package for further information.)

6. Turn the hot water tank bypass valve to thebypass position.

7. Remove the suction hose from the waterpump. Attach a hose to the suction side ofthe pump and place this hose into a jug ofpotable antifreeze.

8. Turn the pump 'ON'.9. Open the hot water faucet furthest from the

pump. When anti-freeze appears allow abouta cup full of antifreeqe to run down the drain,to winterize the p-trap. Do this on all faucets,hot and cold. Do not forget the toilet, showerand exterior shower.

10. Turn off the pump.11. Open an interior faucet to relieve the system

pressure. Remove the city water connectioncap. Carefully remove the screen and pressthe valve inside the inlet with your finger tipuntil anti-freeze starts to flow. This willensure frost protection for the inlet pipe.

HOT WATER TANK BYPASS VALVE

15 COLD TEMPERATURE STORAGE

CAUTIONDo not turn the water heater bypass valve to thenormal position until clear water appears at allfaucets.

Do Not use automotive type anit-freeze in thefresh water sytem. It is highly toxic.

WARNING

15.2 DE-WINTERIZED WATERSYSTEMS

1. Fill the water tank with clean water.2. Turn the water pump 'ON'.3. Open the water faucet furthest away from the

water tank. Run the water until clear waterappears. Shut off the faucet. Do this to all hotand cold water faucets throughout the unit.

4. Turn the hot water tank bypass valve to thenormal position to fill the water heater with water.Open a hot water faucet to allow air from thewater heater to escape. When water starts toflow close the faucet.

5. The fresh water system is now ready to be used.

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16 WARRANTY POLICYTOPAZ

TRIPLE E RECREATIONAL VEHICLES WARRANTY POLICY(Effective 2007 Model Year)

1. BASIC COVERAGE

A.Coach Warranty:

Triple E Recreational Vehicles warrants the specified new vehicle to be free from defects inmaterial and workmanship under normal use and service. Obligation under this warrantyshall be limited to twelve (12) months or 20,000 kilometers, whichever occurs first, after thedate of purchase by the original retail purchaser from an authorized dealer and shall be limitedto making good at our factory, any part or parts thereof upon return to the factory. Theodometer accumulation on a vehicle driven from Triple E Recreational Vehicles to thedealership will be added to the odometer warranty allowance. The remainder for the coachwarranty is transferable to a second owner upon application to Triple E RV.

B. Structural Warranty:

TRIPLE E RV IS ALSO PLEASED TO PROVIDE A TWO-YEAR LIMITED STRUCTURALWARRANTY. Triple E RV warrants to the first retail purchaser from an authorized dealer thatthe structural components (roof, floor, front, rear and sides) of the product will be free ofsubstantial structural defects in material and workmanship of a period for 24 months or40,000 km (whichever occurs first) after the date of purchase by the original retail purchaserfrom an authorized dealer. This is limited to making good at our factory, any part or partsthereof upon return to the factory. This warranty applies provided that all applicable sectionsof this warranty policy are met. The remainder of the structural warranty is transferable toa second owner upon application to Triple E RV.

C. Major Component Warranty:

TRIPLE E RECREATIONAL VEHICLES (HERE AFTER KNOWN AS TRIPLE E RV) HASWORKED WITH OUR MAJOR COMPONENT SUPPLIERS AND IS PLEASED TOOFFER A TWO-YEAR MAJOR COMPONENT WARRANTY FROM PARTICIPATINGSUPPLIERS. Components included are listed in Attachment A.

D. Chassis Warranty:

Covered under separate warranty by original manufacturer, i.e. Ford, Workhorse CustomChassis and Freightliner.

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1. WHAT IS NOT COVERED

This warranty will not apply where a motor home or trailer has been altered outside our factoryin any way so as to, in our judgement, affect its stability or reliability, or which has been subjectto misuse, negligence or accident. The warranty will not apply if the unit has been in a rental pool.

Any loss resulting from abuse or misuse, failure to properly winterize, failure to have regularservicing performed, such as user maintenance, adjustments, tune-ups, alignments, roadservice, failure to protect the motorhome from further damage if an indication of damageoccurred, failure caused by overheating (regardless of cause), contamination of lubricants,coolants including failure of hoses, connections and lines is not covered. It is the responsibilityof the owner to operate and maintain the motorhome or trailer as recommended in the owner’smanual. Regular scheduled maintenance is essential.

We may restrict the warranty on your unit if it is not properly maintained, or is abused, andif the neglect or abuse interferes with the proper functioning of the RV. Triple ETowables, Class C and Embassy products are NOT intended for prolonged occupationduring extremely cold weather. Damage caused by such use is NOT covered bywarranty. If the warranty is restricted, coverage may be denied or subject to our approvalbefore repairs are performed.

Those damages incurred by collision, upset, fire, theft, explosion, missiles, breakage of glass,earthquakes, vandalism, civil commotion, acts of God, lightning, malicious mischief, water,flood, rust, hail, larceny, freezing, corrosion, condensation, smoke, or nuclear contamination,losses to any property or injury and/or death to any persons regardless if the damage or injurywas caused by your vehicle or its parts are not warranted by the manufacturer.

This warranty does not cover any component which is not manufactured by Triple E RecreationalVehicles or any component under separate warranties from its manufacturer (tires, batteries,refrigerator, stove, heaters, chassis, powertrain, etc for example). Triple E RecreationalVehicles shall not be held responsible or liable in any manner with respect to these components.

Items such as sealant, trims, fabrics, floor coverings, upholstery, drapery, blinds, paint, gelcoat,and decals may experience normal pigmentation change and deterioration of material from useor weather. This is considered normal and is not covered by warranty.

Consequential damages such as loss of your vehicle, loss of time, inconvenience, expense forfuel, transportation to and from the dealer or the manufacturing plant location, bus fares,telephone, travel, rental vehicle, overnight accommodation, loss or damage to your personalproperty, commercial loss, loss of income, loss of use, or other incidental or consequentialdamages or expenses are not warranted by the manufacturer.

Note: Some States and Provinces do not allow the exclusion or limitation of incidental orconsequential damages, thus the limitation in the paragraph above may not apply to you.

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Note:It may become necessary for you (the retail owner)

to have warranty work done at a siteother than an authorized Triple E RV Dealer.

If this is the case the repair center must obtainprior authorization from Triple E Recreational Vehicles before the

warranty work can beginto ensure warranty coverage is available

and that the rates are acceptable.

The repair centre must call theTriple E RV Warranty Dept.

at 1-204-325-4361 for authorization

3. OTHER NOTES REGARDING WARRANTY

This warranty is expressly in lieu of all other warranties expressed or implied and all otherobligations or liabilities on our part of any kind of character, including liabilities for allegedrepresentation or negligence. We neither assume nor authorize any other person to assume forus any liability in the connection with the sale of our product other than expressed herein. Weshall not be responsible for commercial loss, special or consequential damages resulting frombreach of these written warranties, or any implied warranty or condition.

All correspondence should be directed to the Dealer from whom the product was purchased andmust specify the serial number and date of purchase of the product in question.

This warranty is not valid unless the warranty registration has been completed at the time ofpurchase. The warranty card that you will receive must be presented when requesting anywarranty repair.

This warranty is the only express warranty made by us applicable to this motorhome or trailer.Any implied warranty or condition or condition of merchantability or fitness for a particularpurpose applicable to this product is limited in duration to the duration of this warranty.

This warranty is applicable to units sold and used in North America only. Warranty is not availablefor units outside of North America.

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Note: Product improvement is an ongoing process at Triple E RV. Thus we reserve the rightto change specification, operating instructions, standards and options on any and allproducts without prior notice. Errors and Omissions excepted.

Attachment A – Major Component Listing for 2 Year Warranty

- Refrigerator- Furnace- Water Heater- Roof Air Conditioners- Microwave- Water pump- Power Converter- Awning- Television and VCR- Toilets- Stereo- Slide Out Room Mechanisms (if equipped)- Rear Camera- Electric Jacks (if equipped)- Roof Vents (Both power and standard vent)- Range Hood- Dishwasher

The warranty for these components is extended through the major component manufacturer.Consult your Owner’s package for details and claim procedures of the warranties on thesecomponents as they do differ between suppliers. The terms of these extended warranties areas specified in each of the specific manufacturer’s brochures.

Triple E will not provide a free warranty replacement or credit for defective product if the majorcomponent supplier in question has suspended operations or become insolvent. If this raresituation were to occur, Triple E will offer a suitable substitute alternative product at a preferredprice and absorb all labor costs necessary to reconfigure the replacement product to fit into thespecific vehicle.

In some cases the remainder of the major component warranties may be transferable to asecond owner. It is the second owner’s responsibility to contact these suppliers to apply for thiswarranty transfer.

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17 INDEXPAGEPAGE

AAppliances And Interior Features ....................................... 12-1

Entry Step .................................................................. 12-11Entertainment System ................................................. 12-8Fresh Water Toilet ..................................................... 12-10LP Gas Furnace .......................................................... 12-6Microwave Oven ......................................................... 12-4Monitor Panel .............................................................. 12-5Cable TV Hook-Ups ..................................................... 12-8Thermostatically Controlled Ceiling Fan .................... 12-12Range And Oven ......................................................... 12-2

Lighting Burners ....................................................... 12-2Lighting Oven Pilot ................................................... 12-3Operating Oven Control .......................................... 12-4Range Hood ............................................................. 12-3Safety Tips ............................................................... 12-3Shut Down Instructions ........................................... 12-4

Refrigerator ................................................................. 12-1Exterior Refrigerator Access .................................. 12-2Operating Instructions ............................................. 12-1Operating Tips ......................................................... 12-1

Roof Air Conditioners .................................................. 12-7Screen Windows ...................................................... 12-11Sleeping Facilities ........................................................ 12-9TV Antenna ................................................................. 12-7

C

Care And Maintenance ....................................................... 13-1Exterior .................................................................... 13-1Interior .................................................................... 13-2

Cold Temperature Storage ................................................. 15-1De-Winterize Water Systems .................................. 15-1Water System Winterization .................................... 15-1

Controls ...................................................................... 6-1Cable TV .................................................................... 6-10Comfort Control Centre ................................................. 6-3Discharge Valves .......................................................... 6-7Entertainment System (Optional) .................................. 6-1Entry Lighting ................................................................. 6-1Heating System ............................................................. 6-3Hitch Light .................................................................... 6-11Landing Gear ............................................................... 6-11Light Switches .............................................................. 6-2Microwave/Waterheater ............................................... 6-9Phone Jack .................................................................. 6-10Range and Oven ......................................................... 12-2Refrigerator ................................................................... 6-2Roof Vent ...................................................................... 6-4Satellite Prewire .......................................................... 6-10Stabilizer Jacks ........................................................... 6-11

System Monitor .............................................................. 6-9TV Antenna ................................................................... 6-8Water Plumbing System ................................................ 6-5

Water Heater .............................................................. 6-5Water Heater Bypass ................................................ 6-6Water Pump ................................................................ 6-6Water System Access ............................................... 6-7

17-1

EElectrical Systems ................................................................ 9-1

120-Volt AC System ..................................................... 9-1120-Volt Circuit Breakers .......................................... 9-2External Power Cord (Shoreline) .............................. 9-1

12-Volt DC System ....................................................... 9-212-Volt Circuit Fuses ................................................. 9-3Battery Condition Meter ............................................. 9-5Battery Maintenance .................................................. 9-3Trailer Battery ............................................................. 9-2

Electrical Schematics (Typical) ..................................... 9-6Fuse Panels .................................................................. 9-7

12-Volt DC .................................................................. 9-730 Amp AC ................................................................. 9-7Trailer Wiring Connector ............................................ 9-5

H

Home Use ...................................................................... 7-1Parking ...................................................................... 7-1Prolonged Occupancy .................................................. 7-6Slide Out Room .............................................................. 7-4

Slide Out Room Operation .......................................... 7-4Slide Out Room - Manual Operation ........................... 7-5

Slide Out Room Troubleshooting ................................... 7-6Trailer Leveling .............................................................. 7-2

I

Index .................................................................... 17-1Introduction ...................................................................... 1-1

Exterior Feature Identification ....................................... 1-4Information Package ...................................................... 1-1Keys ...................................................................... 1-1Operator's Manuals ...................................................... 1-1Options and Equipment ................................................ 1-1Reporting Safety Defects ............................................. 1-6Service Assistance ...................................................... 1-6Traveling Comfort .......................................................... 1-6Trailer Labeling Definitions ............................................ 1-3

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TOPAZ

PAGEL

Liquid Propane Gas System ................................................ 10-1Air in the LP Tank ........................................................ 10-4How LP Gas Works .................................................... 10-1LP Gas Detector ......................................................... 10-5LP Gas Leaks ............................................................. 10-5LP Tank System ........................................................... 10-2Refilling LP Tank ......................................................... 10-3Regulator .................................................................... 10-4Safe Use of LP Gas .................................................... 10-1Selecting Fuel Types .................................................. 10-2Traveling LP Gas ........................................................ 10-4

P

Preparation ............................................................................ 3-1Trailer Preparation ........................................................ 3-1

Keys ...................................................................... 3-1Trailer Weights ........................................................... 3-1Tow Vehicle ............................................................... 3-2

S

Safety .................................................................................... 2-1Alarms .................................................................... 2-10Asphyxiation ................................................................. 2-9Driving Safety ................................................................ 2-8Electrical .................................................................... 2-10Emergency Exits .......................................................... 2-11Formaldehyde ................................................................ 2-9Fuel (Motor and LP Gas) ............................................... 2-8General Safety .............................................................. 2-1Loose Components ..................................................... 2-11LP Gas Leaks ................................................................ 2-9Maintenance ................................................................ 2-11

Safety Equipment Operation ................................................. 8-1Alarms ...................................................................... 8-4

LP Gas Alarm ............................................................. 8-4Smoke Alarm .............................................................. 8-4

Emergency Escape ....................................................... 8-3Fire Prevention .............................................................. 8-1

Fire Extinguisher ........................................................ 8-2Fire Safety Tips .......................................................... 8-1

Storing Your RV .................................................................. 14-1

PAGET

Tire Safety ...................................................................... 2-2Trailer Use ...................................................................... 4-1

Electrical ...................................................................... 4-8Hooking Up/Unhooking .................................................. 4-1

Hooking Up/Unhooking Conventional Trailer ............ 4-1Hooking Up/Unhooking Fifth Wheel Trailer ................. 4-3

Tongue/Hitch Weights ................................................... 4-7Trailer Brake System ..................................................... 4-5Trailer Loading ............................................................... 4-8

Traveling ...................................................................... 5-1Backing Up .................................................................... 5-7Driving ...................................................................... 5-2Emergency Equipment Check List ............................... 5-2Parking ...................................................................... 5-5Pre-Trip Inspection and Preparation ............................. 5-1Quick Loading Check List .............................................. 5-9Severe Weather Information ....................................... 5-10Travel Tips ..................................................................... 5-8Wheels/Tires ................................................................. 5-6

WWarranty Policy ................................................................... 16-1Water/Plumbing System ..................................................... 11-1

Fresh Water System .................................................. 11-1Disinfection of Water Tank ...................................... 11-3External Water Supply ............................................. 11-4Fresh Water Tank Filling Procedure ......................... 11-1Water Pump .............................................................. 11-1Water Pump Filter ..................................................... 11-2Water Pump Initial Start-Up ...................................... 11-2Water Pump Switch ................................................. 11-1Water Pump Troubleshooting ................................... 11-3Water System Access ............................................. 11-2

Plumbing Schematics/Drainage System ................... 11-10Plumbing System Operation ........................................ 11-8

Shower .................................................................... 11-9Toilet .................................................................... 11-9Water Heater ............................................................ 11-8

Waste Systems ........................................................... 11-5Black Water - Waste Holding Tank .......................... 11-5Do's And Don'ts Holding Tanks ................................ 11-7Dumping Holding Tanks ............................................ 11-6Grey Water - Waste Holding Tank ........................... 11-5Holding Tank Level Indicators .................................. 11-8Tank Capacities ........................................................ 11-8Using On-Site Sewer Hook-Ups .............................. 11-7

17-2

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TOPAZ

All recommended maintenance procedures are ofgreat importance. Maintenance intervals, checks

and inspections recommended in this manual helpto keep your vehicle in good working condition.

Any damage caused by failure to followrecommended maintenance may not be covered

by warranty. General maintenance work isconsidered the owner's responsibility. Contact

your selling Dealership for any necessaryassistance.

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Interior

Clean and dust interior fabrics

Clean and dust countertops and cabinets

Clean and dust floors

Exterior

Clean Roof

Check roof for surface damage

Clean walls

Wax Front & Rear Mask

Sealants

Check for cracks or missing sealant

Replace or redo sealant

Electrical System

Check battery connections and fluid level

Check 12-volt fuses and 120-volt breakers

Test GFI receptacles

LP System

Check LP pressure at 11” WC

LP tanks secured properly

Plumbing System

Sanitize plumbing system

Check plumbing system fittings

Check and clean water pump filter

Check and clean faucet screens

Winterize plumbing system

Winterize city water connection

As Required by

component mfgr.

As necessary

Annually

6-Months

3-Months

Monthly

Weekly

Pre-Trip

CM

CM = must be done by Certified Mechanic

Towable Maintenance Chart

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Water Heater

Water Heater maintenance instructions

Operate pressure relief valve

Flush tank

Check burner for proper adjustment

Check electrode

Check module board circuits

Refrigerator

Refrigerator maintenance instructions

Check and clean exterior vent

Check and clean baffle

Check and clean fridge burner

Furnace

Furnace maintenance instructions

Roof Air Conditioner

A/C maintenance instructions

Clean Air Filter

Check the exterior for damage

Range Top / Oven

Range maintenance instructions

Check and clean burner assembly

As Required by

component mfgr.

As necessary

Annually

6-Months

3-Months

Monthly

Weekly

Pre-Trip

CMCMCM

CM = must be done by Certified Mechanic

Towable Maintenance Chart

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Frame and Chassis

Check and clean frame components

Check Suspension

Check and Lubricate couplers

Check jack assembly

Clean and Lubricate jacks

Check wheel bearings

Check and adjust brakes

Check wheel nuts torque

Check tire pressure and tread wear

Check trailer brake function

Slide-out adjustment and function

Miscellaneous

Lube locks, hinges, and latches

Lubricate step

Safety Equipment

Check Smoke detector

Check LP detector

Check Carbon Monoxide detector

Check Fire Extinguisher

As Required by

component mfgr.

As necessary

Annually

6-Months

3-Months

MonthlyWeekly

Pre-Trip

Towable Maintenance Chart

CMCM

CM = must be done by Certified Mechanic