23/11/10 15:26 Page 1 4188 11/10 Designed and produced by Kal-Group T: +44 (0)1427 610127 www.kal-group.co.uk 4188 AT Excel Cover +5mm spine:Layout 1 Auto-Trail VR Limited. Trigano House, Genesis Way, Europarc, Grimsby, North East Lincolnshire, DN37 9TU. Main Reception Tel +44(0) 1472 571000 Fax +44(0) 1472 571001 www.auto-trail.co.uk O W N E R ’ S H A N D B O O K : E X C E L Parts Department Tel +44(0) 1472 571003 Fax +44(0) 1472 571002 w w w. a u t o - t r a i l . c o .
4188 AT Excel handbook 2011:Layout 1 23/11/10 14:25 Page 1 OWNERS’ HANDBOOK EXCEL TA K E Y O U R S O N A N A D V E N T U R E www.auto-trail.co.
4188 AT Excel handbook 2011:Layout 1 23/11/10 14:25 Page 2 Your motorhome makes use of many complex systems and services. Please ensure that you have read all instruction manuals carefully, and fully understand all aspects of your vehicle, before driving it on the open road. If you have any queries on the operation of any part of your motorhome please contact your supplying dealer.
188 AT Excel handbook 2011:Layout 1 23/11/10 14:25 Page 3 Useful Information : OW NERS HANDBOOK Complete the details below: Model: Name: Telephone: Date Purchased: Supplying Dealer: Sales Person: Telephone Number: Tyre Pressure: Radio Code: Exterior Door Key Number: Water Filter Key Number: Vehicle Build Number: www.auto-trail.co.
4188 AT Excel handbook 2011:Layout 1 23/11/10 14:25 Page 4 Auto-Trail VR Limited. Trigano House, Genesis Way, Europarc, Grimsby, North East Lincolnshire, DN37 9TU. Tel: +44(0) 1472 571000 Fax: +44(0) 1472 571001 e-mail: sales@auto-trail.co.
4188 AT Excel handbook 2011:Layout 1 23/11/10 14:25 Page 5 : OW NERS HANDBOOK Contents Useful information ..................................................3-4 Spinflo S330 hob ....................................................26 Good neighbour guide........................................43-45 Introduction ............................................................6-7 Spinflo Duplex oven & grill......................................27 Annual checklist .........................................
4188 AT Excel handbook 2011:Layout 1 23/11/10 14:25 Page 6 Introduction Auto-Trail welcomes you to the ranks of Auto-Trail owners. This handbook has been designed to enable you to derive the maximum benefit and enjoyment from your motorhome; its information will be beneficial to experienced and new motorhomers alike.
4188 AT Excel handbook 2011:Layout 1 23/11/10 14:25 Page 7 : OW NERS HANDBOOK This handbook is intended to give a brief overview of your motorhome and its appliances. You are advised to read all of the individual appliance instructions which will be found in the information wallet supplied with your vehicle. Please note that every effort is made within this handbook to accurately reflect and describe our motorhomes.
4188 AT Excel handbook 2011:Layout 1 23/11/10 14:25 Page 8 Preparing For The Road Preparing For The Road Loading Your Vehicle All models manufactured by Auto-Trail are of a well balanced design, the most common causes of poor stability include: • Poor weight distribution of the weight inside the vehicle. • Incorrect tyre pressure (always adhere to the tyre pressures stated in the chassis manufacturers handbook. Always inflate to the ‘fully laden’ condition).
4188 AT Excel handbook 2011:Layout 1 23/11/10 14:25 Page 9 : OW NERS HANDBOOK Maximum Loading Of Your Vehicle The weights of your vehicle are stated in the back of this handbook and on the secondary weight plate located in the engine bay of your vehicle. The secondary weight plate gives the following information. • The maximum authorised weight of your vehicle which must never be exceeded when the vehicle is loaded and in use. • The gross train weight of your vehicle.
4188 AT Excel handbook 2011:Layout 1 23/11/10 14:25 Page 10 External features A Fridge vents C Status T.V.
4188 AT Excel handbook 2011:Layout 1 23/11/10 14:25 Page 11 External features : OW NERS HANDBOOK D Awning light (where fitted) F Rear marker lights H High level brake light (where fitted) E Lockable external access door to toilet waste tank G Lockable gas cylinder compartment J Lockable fresh water filler F H D G E J E J Model shown Excel 600B www.auto-trail.co.
4188 AT Excel handbook 2011:Layout 1 23/11/10 14:26 Page 12 Driving Your Motorhome Driving Your Motorhome Pulling Away When pulling away in your motorhome always operate the clutch smoothly, change gears smoothly and try not to jerk the clutch. Motorhome Handling Please remember that your motorhome is much larger than a standard motor car when carrying out any manoeuvres. • Allow longer to speed up when overtaking. • Do not swing out suddenly. • Carry out all manoeuvres as smoothly as possible.
4188 AT Excel handbook 2011:Layout 1 23/11/10 14:26 Page 13 : OW NERS HANDBOOK Selecting A Pitch Selecting A Pitch Alloy Wheels / Tyre Valves It is vitally important that when you get replacement tyres fitted to your vehicle the valves that are used are capable of withstanding the high pressures associated with motorhome tyres. Usually only ‘bolt through’ steel type valves can withstand the high pressures associated with motorhome tyres.
4188 AT Excel handbook 2011:Layout 1 23/11/10 14:26 Page 14 Gas Services Gas Services The gas appliances in your vehicle are fed from a gas cylinder that is housed in a sealed cylinder compartment. Gas flows from the gas bottles via a bulkhead mounted gas regulator. This regulator provides a working gas pressure of 30 m bar (1.5kg of gas per hour). All appliances installed by Auto-Trail are designed to work within this pressure range.
4188 AT Excel handbook 2011:Layout 1 23/11/10 14:26 Page 15 : OW NERS HANDBOOK Gas Hoses Your supplying dealer will advise on the correct type of high pressure hose to connect your gas cylinder to the pressure regulator. This will depend on the type of gas cylinders you have chosen to carry in your vehicle. Inspect flexible hoses regularly for deterioration and renew, as necessary with an approved type, in any case not later than the expiry date shown on the hose.
4188 AT Excel handbook 2011:Layout 1 23/11/10 14:26 Page 16 Electrical Services Electrical Services All Auto-Trail vehicles have both a 12v and 230v electrical system. The 12v electrical system is supplied by a rechargeable leisure battery that is located in a dedicated battery compartment within the vehicle (locations of leisure batteries varies from model to model so please familiarise yourself with your battery location prior to using the vehicle for the first time).
4188 AT Excel handbook 2011:Layout 1 23/11/10 14:26 Page 17 : OW NERS HANDBOOK • Switch the RCD back into the ‘ON’ position (lever in ‘UP’ position). If the button failed to operate the RCD seek professional advice from a qualified electrician. • Check the polarity of the mains supply by locating the Reverse Polarity indicator and ensure that the indicator is not illuminated. If the indicator is illuminated seek advice from a professional electrician.
4188 AT Excel handbook 2011:Layout 1 23/11/10 14:26 Page 18 Electrical Services Electrical Services Motorhome mains inlet The cable plug is connected to the cable coupler by a 2.5mm flexible 3-core cable. Warning: It is essential that connections are made exactly as shown. If the terminal markings are not in accordance with the diagram, they must be ignored. If in doubt, consult a qualified electrician.
4188 AT Excel handbook 2011:Layout 1 23/11/10 14:26 Page 19 : OW NERS HANDBOOK Leisure Battery Leisure Battery Your vehicle is equipped with a rechargeable leisure battery that is located in a dedicated battery compartment within your vehicle. Locations of leisure batteries vary from model to model, so please familiarise yourself with your battery location before using your vehicle for the first time.
4188 AT Excel handbook 2011:Layout 1 23/11/10 14:26 Page 20 EC500 Power Supply Unit EC500 PSU (Power Supply Unit) Overview The EC500 Power Supply Unit utilises a battery charger that supplies 12 volt DC power to run the leisure equipment and supply the leisure battery. It also houses the 12 volt DC fuses that protect the various 12 volt circuits, and the 230 volt RCD and MCB’s that protect the various mains circuits.
4188 AT Excel handbook 2011:Layout 1 23/11/10 14:26 Page 21 : OW NERS HANDBOOK Pump Button The pump button turns on the 12 volt water pump circuit. Press the button once to turn on the water pump - the LED will illuminate, press the button again to turn off the pump – the LED will go out. Light Button The light button turns on the main internal 12 volt lights. Press the button once to turn on the main lights – the LED will illuminate, press the button again to turn the lights off – LED will go out.
4188 AT Excel handbook 2011:Layout 1 23/11/10 14:26 Page 22 EC325 Control Panel EC325 Control Panel The LCD control panel (normally located over the entrance door) controls all of the on board 12V systems. Basic Controls On The Panel Power ON / OFF Use this switch to turn the main 12V power on and off in the vehicle (press once and LED will illuminate indicating power on, press again, LED will go out indicating power ‘OFF’).
4188 AT Excel handbook 2011:Layout 1 23/11/10 14:26 Page 23 : OW NERS HANDBOOK Leisure Battery Condition This gives the voltage reading and condition of the on-board leisure battery. As a general rule; •If the battery shows less than 10.9 volts, the battery indicates ‘POOR’. •If the reading is between 10.9 volts and 11.8 volts, the battery condition is ‘FAIR’. •If the reading is between 11.9 volts and 14.4 volts, the reading will indicate ‘GOOD’.
4188 AT Excel handbook 2011:Layout 1 23/11/10 14:26 Page 24 AVTEX LCD Digital TV and DVD Player ‘AVTEX’ LCD Digital Television and DVD Player Your vehicle may be fitted with an AVTEX combined digital television which has a built-in DVD player (Sport model only).
4188 AT Excel handbook 2011:Layout 1 23/11/10 14:26 : OW NERS HANDBOOK DVD Operation • Switch the unit on using the power button (red LED will turn green to indicate power is on). • Switch the signal source to DVD. • Insert the disk into the slot in the side of the unit with the label towards you. The unit will draw the disk in automatically. • Press the ‘PLAY’ button to begin to play the disc and adjust the volume using the ‘VOL+’ or ‘VOL-’ buttons.
4188 AT Excel handbook 2011:Layout 1 23/11/10 14:26 Page 26 Spinflo S330 Hob Spinflo S330 Hob The Spinflo S330 is a fully recessed electronic ignition 3 burner hob. The three burners are fully adjustable from full flame to simmer. Using the hob Ensure that the gas cylinder valve is open and that the isolation valve supplying the oven is in the ‘ON’ position. Important - The hob will support 200mm diameter pans on the outer burners, and 180mm diameter pans on the central burner.
4188 AT Excel handbook 2011:Layout 1 23/11/10 14:26 : OW NERS HANDBOOK Page 27 Spinflo Duplex Oven and Grill Spinflo Duplex Oven and Grill The Spinflo Duplex oven is a combined oven with built-in grill. Both the oven and grill are operated from the same control knob on the oven facia. Using the Grill Ensure that the gas cylinder valve is open and that the isolation valve supplying the oven appliance is in the ‘ON’ position. Important The grill must used with the door open.
4188 AT Excel handbook 2011:Layout 1 23/11/10 14:26 Page 28 Dometic RM7271 Refrigerator Dometic RM7271 Refrigerator The refrigerator is equipped to operate on 230v, 12v or LPG. The desired power option is selected by means of the energy selector switch which has four settings; 230v, 12v (DC), LPG and OFF. 12v (DC) Operation • Set the energy selector switch to 12v operating display 12v will illuminate green to indicate appliance is operating on 12v.
4188 AT Excel handbook 2011:Layout 1 23/11/10 14:26 : OW NERS HANDBOOK Page 29 Webasto Dual Top Diesel Heater Webasto Dual Top Diesel Heater The webasto Dual top heater provides blown air heating and domestic hot water using diesel fuel from the vehicle’s tank. The heater is controlled by a single control panel that is normally located over the entrance door. Anti Freeze mode This setting is ideal for winter camping.
4188 AT Excel handbook 2011:Layout 1 23/11/10 14:26 Page 30 Flue Covers Flue Covers Water Services The Refrigerator and Truma Ultrastore water heater fitted to your vehicle are supplied with flue covers that are designed to keep out water and debris if the vehicle is to be stood unused for any length of time. The flue covers must be removed before the appliances are used as the covers will stop combustion air entering the appliance and the flue gasses escaping if left in place.
4188 AT Excel handbook 2011:Layout 1 23/11/10 14:26 Page 31 : OW NERS HANDBOOK Please note that if the pump runs on for more than 5-10 seconds after you have closed all the taps, it is possible that there could be a leak in the system. This should be checked immediately. • Fill the tank until either the water level gauge reads 100%, or until the tank begins to overflow. • Remove the hose. Replace the cap, lock and remove the key.
4188 AT Excel handbook 2011:Layout 1 23/11/10 14:26 Page 32 Thetford Cassette Toilet Thetford Cassette Toilet The toilet is made up of two parts: a permanently fixed toilet and a waste holding tank that is accessible from the outside. The removable waste holding tank is located under the toilet and can be removed via an access door on the outside of the motorhome. Preparing For Use • Remove the waste holding tank by pulling the safety catch upwards.
4188 AT Excel handbook 2011:Layout 1 23/11/10 14:26 Page 33 : OW NERS HANDBOOK Windows and Skylights Windows & Skylights • Remove the emptying spout cap. Hold the waste holding tank by the upper handle nearest to the emptying spout. Hold the rear handle with your other hand so that you can operate the vent plunger with your thumb. Keep the vent plunger pressed to ensure that the tank is emptied without splashing.
4188 AT Excel handbook 2011:Layout 1 23/11/10 14:26 Page 34 Windows and Skylights Windows & Skylights Window Blinds The habitation widows are fitted with night blinds that pull upwards from the bottom of the window and a flyscreen blind that pulls downwards from the top of the window. The night blind and flyscreen will clip together and can be positioned at any point within the blind frame. Skylights Your vehicle is fitted with skylights in the ceiling to allow light and ventilation into the vehicle.
4188 AT Excel handbook 2011:Layout 1 23/11/10 14:26 Page 35 : OW NERS HANDBOOK Wind Out Awning Wind Out Awning Please note - do not leave pleated night blinds in the ‘closed’ position if the vehicle is being left in storage for any extended period of time. Your vehicle may be fitted with a wind out awning which, when extended, will provide a shaded area next to your motorhome. Operation Winding Out The Awning • Locate the winding handle into the socket on the left hand side of the awning.
4188 AT Excel handbook 2011:Layout 1 23/11/10 14:26 Page 36 Security and Ventilation Security & Ventilation Low level ventilation is provided via the entrance step well. High level ventilation is provided by skylights located in the roof of your vehicle. All ventilation complies with European Standards and vents should not be obstructed in any way as this could lead to insufficient fresh air.
4188 AT Excel handbook 2011:Layout 1 23/11/10 14:26 Page 37 : OW NERS HANDBOOK Fire And Safety Precautions In Case Of Fire Please read all warning notices inside your motorhome advising you on fire prevention, ventilation and what to do in the event of a fire. If a fire should develop in your vehicle please observe the following; • Get everybody out of the motorhome as quickly as possible. • Call the fire brigade. • Turn off the gas bottle isolation valve if safe to do so.
4188 AT Excel handbook 2011:Layout 1 23/11/10 14:26 Page 38 Security and Ventilation Security & Ventilation Escape Paths It is important that you do not block any escape paths or emergency exits with any obstructions that could hinder your escape in an emergency.
4188 AT Excel handbook 2011:Layout 1 23/11/10 14:26 Page 39 : OW NERS HANDBOOK General Care General Care Motorhome Exterior The exterior of Auto-Trail motorhomes are finished with a highly polished fibreglass skin. This is a very durable surface and is very easy to clean due to its high gloss finish. To maintain a showroom finish, wash the motorhome regularly with a mild detergent, rinse off with cold water and leather off.
88 AT Excel handbook 2011:Layout 1 23/11/10 14:26 Page 40 General Care General Care Condensation Condensation occurs when warm moist air meets a cold surface. The risk of condensation therefore depends upon how moist the air is and how cold the internal surfaces of the vehicle are. Condensation is normally more noticeable during the winter months as the motorhome is cold and because skylights, windows and doors are opened less meaning that the moist internal air cannot escape.
4188 AT Excel handbook 2011:Layout 1 23/11/10 14:26 Page 41 : OW NERS HANDBOOK Motorhome Interior Side Walls, Roof Lining And Furniture A simple wash with a damp cloth and a mild detergent is all that is necessary. Soft Furnishings Carpets should be vacuumed occasionally to remove grit and sand. This helps maintain good appearance and ensure long life. The upholstery can be cleaned with a mild reputable upholstery cleaner. It is recommended that curtains be dry cleaned.
4188 AT Excel handbook 2011:Layout 1 23/11/10 14:26 Page 42 Winter Laying Up Winter Laying Up Whether you use your motorhome all year round or lay it up for the winter, care should always be taken to ensure your investment is receiving the very best attention. The following tips will be helpful for the periods when your motorhome is not regularly used. It applies if you store in a compound away from home, or in your own drive.
4188 AT Excel handbook 2011:Layout 1 23/11/10 14:26 Page 43 : OW NERS HANDBOOK Good Neighbour Guide Motorhome Owners’ Good Neighbour Code Window Blinds Window night blinds should not be left in the ‘closed’ position for long periods as this may affect their folding back into the ‘open’ position. Bringing Your Vehicle Out Of Storage Before starting to use your motorhome after a long storage period we would recommend that you have all gas and 230v electrical services checked by a competent person.
4188 AT Excel handbook 2011:Layout 1 23/11/10 14:26 Page 44 Good Neighbour Guide Motorhome Owners’ Good Neighbour Code At A Camp Site Noise Pollution Please show consideration by thinking how the noise you create will affect those around you. Open and close doors quietly. Control noise made by your children: do not allow them to play with kites, model aircraft, catapults or airguns close to vehicles. Do not allow them to play loud, boisterous ballgames.
4188 AT Excel handbook 2011:Layout 1 23/11/10 14:26 Page 45 : OW NERS HANDBOOK If the stay is longer than a day or two the groundsheet and/or side flaps of the awning should be lifted to avoid unsightly patches or damage to the grass. Leaving The Site Always tidy your pitch and make sure you do not leave bags of rubbish lying about. Check out at reception, pay your site fees and thank them for an enjoyable stay.
4188 AT Excel handbook 2011:Layout 1 23/11/10 14:26 Page 46 Motorhome Annual Checklist Auto-Trail Motorhome Annual Checklist Introduction It makes good sense to check over your motorhome at least every year. If you tend not to use it much during the winter months, check it over before storing it. Any defect, repairs or adjustments can then be made without rushing.
4188 AT Excel handbook 2011:Layout 1 23/11/10 14:26 : OW NERS HANDBOOK Seals Ensure that the door seals are in good general condition and are free from cracking and other signs of deterioration. Check that when the door is closed it provides a weather tight seal. 4. Internal Doors Security Check that the hinges and catches are in good condition and operate properly. Ensure that the doors are securely shut when latched.
4188 AT Excel handbook 2011:Layout 1 23/11/10 14:26 Page 48 Motorhome Annual Checklist Auto-Trail Motorhome Annual Checklist Flue Terminals and Air Vents Make sure that these are not blocked. Check the security of the fixings. Check the seals have not deteriorated. 7. Internal Body Seepage Examine for signs of moisture staining in areas under windows, sides of roof and in corners which might indicate water seepage. Use a moisture meter if unsure. Furniture Check that all furniture is securely fixed.
4188 AT Excel handbook 2011:Layout 1 23/11/10 14:26 : OW NERS HANDBOOK 8. Gas Systems Cylinders and Regulators Check the compatibility of cylinders and regulators. Ensure that your regulator controls the gas to the correct pressure for the type of cylinder in use. Check that the air vents and gas drain hole in the floor of the cylinder compartment are free from obstruction. Check that the seals on all the internal doors are in good condition and fit properly.
4188 AT Excel handbook 2011:Layout 1 23/11/10 14:26 Page 50 Motorhome Annual Checklist Auto-Trail Motorhome Annual Checklist Flame Structure • Flame failure device (FFD): Check for satisfactory operation by the following method: after the appliance has been checked, allow time for the thermocouple to cool. Try to relight the appliance by turning it on without pushing the gas control knob in. If the appliance does not light the FFD is working.
4188 AT Excel handbook 2011:Layout 1 23/11/10 14:26 Page 51 : OW NERS HANDBOOK Guarantee Guarantee Waste Water System • Allow water to run through drain pipes: check for leaks and satisfactory draining from sinks etc. • Couplings and fluids: Avoid confusion by making sure proper markings are used: Blue for fresh water and red for waste water. Check that the filler positions are correctly designated: 'Petrol', 'Diesel' and 'Water' as appropriate. 10.
4188 AT Excel handbook 2011:Layout 1 23/11/10 14:26 Page 52 Guarantee Guarantee 2. Limitations and Conditions A. This guarantee is limited to the first purchaser and applies only where the vehicle is used for private use by the purchaser and excludes any use for hiring out purposes. B.
4188 AT Excel handbook 2011:Layout 1 23/11/10 14:26 Page 53 : OW NERS HANDBOOK Please note if your vehicle is offered with extended warranty, ensure your dealer registers it at the time of collection and supplies you with a copy of the warranty policy. Please note Auto-Trail VR Ltd. will not be liable for any costs incurred by the customer as a result of taking the vehicle back to the selling dealer or manufacturer for warranty work.
4188 AT Excel handbook 2011:Layout 1 23/11/10 14:26 Page 54 Vehicle Specifications MODEL OVERALL LENGTH OVERALL WIDTH (Mirrors Folded) Excel 590 Excel 600 Excel 640 Excel 670 5.88m 5.99m 6.40m 6.72m 2.23m 2.23m 2.23m 2.23m OVERALL WHEELBASE MAX. HEIGHT GROSS WEIGHT 2.79m 2.79m 2.79m 2.79m 3000 3450 3450 3800 3300kg 3300kg 3300kg 3300kg MASS IN RUNNING ORDER MAX.
4188 AT Excel handbook 2011:Layout 1 23/11/10 14:27 : OW NERS HANDBOOK Page 55 Cable Colour Chart www.auto-trail.co.
4188 AT Excel handbook 2011:Layout 1 23/11/10 14:27 230v Circuits 56 TA K E Y O U R S O N A N A D V E N T U R E Page 56
4188 AT Excel handbook 2011:Layout 1 23/11/10 14:27 : OW NERS HANDBOOK Page 57 Road Lighting Circuits www.auto-trail.co.
4188 AT Excel handbook 2011:Layout 1 23/11/10 14:27 Power Circuits 58 TA K E Y O U R S O N A N A D V E N T U R E Page 58
4188 AT Excel handbook 2011:Layout 1 23/11/10 14:27 : OW NERS HANDBOOK Page 59 Consumer Circuits - Roof www.auto-trail.co.
4188 AT Excel handbook 2011:Layout 1 23/11/10 14:27 Page 60 Consumer Circuits - Floor 60 TA K E Y O U R S O N A N A D V E N T U R E
4188 AT Excel handbook 2011:Layout 1 23/11/10 14:27 : OW NERS HANDBOOK Page 61 Notes www.auto-trail.co.
4188 AT Excel handbook 2011:Layout 1 23/11/10 14:27 Page 62 Notes 62 TA K E Y O U R S O N A N A D V E N T U R E
4188 AT Excel handbook 2011:Layout 1 23/11/10 14:27 : OW NERS HANDBOOK Page 63 Notes www.auto-trail.co.
4188 AT Excel handbook 2011:Layout 1 23/11/10 14:27 Page 64 Notes 64 TA K E Y O U R S O N A N A D V E N T U R E
23/11/10 15:26 Page 1 4188 11/10 Designed and produced by Kal-Group T: +44 (0)1427 610127 www.kal-group.co.uk 4188 AT Excel Cover +5mm spine:Layout 1 Auto-Trail VR Limited. Trigano House, Genesis Way, Europarc, Grimsby, North East Lincolnshire, DN37 9TU. Main Reception Tel +44(0) 1472 571000 Fax +44(0) 1472 571001 www.auto-trail.co.uk O W N E R ’ S H A N D B O O K : E X C E L Parts Department Tel +44(0) 1472 571003 Fax +44(0) 1472 571002 w w w. a u t o - t r a i l . c o .