All the illustrations and descriptive matter in this handbook are intended to give a general idea of the motorhome. Changing market and supply situations may prevent us from maintaining the exact specification details in this handbook and we therefore reserve the right to alter specifications as materials and conditions demand.
Explorer Group on the Net www.explorer-group.co.uk Whilst we make every effort to include all the necessary information required within our owners’ handbook, from time to time the information may change or be updated. If you have any queries that are not covered the following options are available: 1. Visit the Explorer Group on-line at www.explorer-group.co.uk you will find that the site has a comprehensive guide to all of the models we produce as well as other useful information that is regularly updated.
CONTENTS Introduction Water Ingress 1 2 Motorhome Code On Site On the Road Safety Recommendations 2 3 3 4 Preparing for the Road Weights explained Loading & Distribution of Weight Roof Racks and Loading Before Moving Off 5 5 5 6 6 On the Road Pulling Off Motorhome Handling Motorway Driving Changing a Wheel Bicycle Racks 7 7 7 7 7 7 Safety & Security 8 Arrival at Site Selecting a Pitch Levelling Connection of Services Water System Gas System Types of Gas Regulator Precautions Electricity 9 9 9 10
INTRODUCTION WELCOME TO THE WORLD OF MOTORHOMES You are now the owner of a quality motorhome. The Owners Handbook has been prepared for your guidance to help you derive the greatest amount of pleasure from the use of your motorhome. It is recommend that you read the pages of this Handbook thoroughly so that you are fully conversant with all the motorhome systems. If there is anything you wish to know which this Handbook fails to cover we are sure that your Authorised Dealer will be pleased to help.
INTRODUCTION WATER INGRESS CODE OF PRACTICE CONSUMER GUARANTEE We at The Explorer Group Ltd. want our customers to be sure that in buying one of our products, you are buying the very best. We are confident that our new products, built with innovative manufacturing techniques and tested materials, make water ingress concerns unnecessary.
MOTORHOME CODE The purpose of introducing a Code of Conduct for Motor Caravanners is to be seen to be doing all we can as an industry to ensure that motor caravans are looked on sympathetically by legislators and other opinion formers. The main elements should cover such things as responsible camping, safe and considerate driving, parking, and other areas where a motor caravanner could cause abuse or nuisance if he or she is not careful.
SAFETY RECOMMENDATIONS GENERAL SAFETY In order for you to get the most out of your new Explorer Group motorhome it is necessary for you to be aware of the following. 1. Do not obstruct ventilators. 2. Inspect the flexible gas hose regularly for deterioration and renew as necessary, with approved type, and in any case no later than the expiry date stated on the hose. 3.
PREPARING FOR THE ROAD HIGH-LEVEL VENTILATION This is always provided by fixed ventilation within the fitted roof skylight. All roof skylights fitted by Explorer Group provide fixed free area ventilation. These roof skylights should be cleaned annually by use of a small brush to remove any dust that may have accumulated around the mesh fitted. On some roof skylights the mesh can be easily removed to aid cleaning.
PREPARING FOR THE ROAD ROOF RACKS Some models of motorhomes are fitted with a roof rack and ladder as standard. Care is needed when using this facility. We recommend you exercise extreme caution when loading and unloading. DO NOT ALLOW CHILDREN TO CLIMB ONTO THE ROOF. DO NOT EXCEED THE STATED MAXIMUM LOAD. ITEMS FITTED OTHER THAN STANDARD EQUIPMENT WILL DEPLETE THE PAYLOAD STATED IN THIS HANDBOOK.
ON THE ROAD PULLING OFF MOTORWAY DRIVING Engage the clutch smoothly. Speed Limits Be sure to observe all statutory speed limits and adapt your speed to take account of prevailing weather and road conditions. Avoid wear and tear on clutch transmission by taking extra care. and Change gears smoothly. Try not to jerk the clutch. MOTORHOME HANDLING Do not bump kerb with wheels. When passing other vehicles allow more than the normal clearance. Allow longer to get up speed to pass.
SAFETY & SECURITY MINDER MOTORHOME THEFT Your motorhome is fitted with MINDER, the security scheme operated by HPI Limited. The theft of a motorhome can occur in the most unlikely circumstances; from a motorway service area, even from an owner’s driveway. Secure all windows and doors when your motorhome is unoccupied even if only for a short length of time. During manufacture, an electronic tag is concealed in the motorhome body carrying a unique motorhome Identification Number.
ARRIVAL AT SITE CHECK SITE REGULATIONS SITING YOUR MOTORHOME When siting your motorhome please keep to the roadways unless otherwise directed. Obey the speed limit. Only a person in possession of a current driving licence may drive on the site. It is also worth remembering that stopping distances on grass are considerably greater than on tarmac. SELECTING A PITCH Carefully select where you wish to place your motorhome.
CONNECTING SERVICES - WATER WATER A Comet Elegance submersible water pump is supplied with each motorhome. Connection to the motorhome is made utilising either a Carver Compact or a Carver Crystal 3 water system. To determine which model you have, please refer to the equipment chart contained in your Owner’s Information Pack. Ensure all taps are in the off position and the 12v water pump switch, located on the electrical control panel, is off.
CONNECTING SERVICES - GAS GAS Your motorhome is designed to operate using either propane or butane liquefied petroleum gas at 30m/bar. Gas can be obtained from your motorhome retailer or gas stockist. Always ensure that the new filter cartridge is pushed fully home into the housing. CARVER COMPACT Connect the fresh water hose directly to the Carver Compact inlet. Finally put the “pump” switch on the control panel to “on” and turn the cold tap on until water flows.
CONNECTING SERVICES - GAS tap via a label. Below is a key to identify each label. To operate the tap the Arrow on the tap shows the direction of flow for the gas. The arrow should be pointing towards the appliance for the appliance to operate. There will be a small label next to the bank of taps under the cooker which is also reproduced below: Hoses should be made from Neoprene, which is black, and should conform to BS 3212. Rubber hosing should never be used.
CONNECTING SERVICES - GAS FACTS ABOUT LPG LPG is not poisonous. Bi-products are harmless. LPG is dangerous if all air and oxygen is excluded. (Ventilation holes must be clear at all times). LPG has been given a distinct odour by the manufacturers in order to identify leaks. The gas is heavier than air and therefore sinks to the lowest point. WARNING: Aerosols and highly flammable liquids must not be stored in the compartment behind, or adjacent to, any gas appliance.
CONNECTING SERVICES - ELECTRICITY ELECTRICITY MAINS SUPPLY IN CASE OF DIFFICULTY CONSULT AN APPROVED ELECTRICAL INSTALLATION CONTRACTOR (WHO MAY BE THE LOCAL ELECTRICITY BOARD). IT IS DANGEROUS TO ATTEMPT MODIFICATIONS AND ADDITIONS YOURSELF. Your motorhome’s main electrical installation is designed to run on a 230v 50hz a.c. supply. ON ARRIVAL AT SITE 1.
CONNECTING SERVICES - ELECTRICITY WIRING OF CONNECTING CABLE AND MOTORHOME MAINS INLET condition obtained as prescribed in the Regulations for Electrical Installations, published by the Institute of Electrical Engineers. Note: Connection to a mains voltage supply OVERSEAS requires particular attention. Care must be taken when connecting supplies abroad since the supplies can be of REVERSE POLARITY.
CONNECTING SERVICES - ELECTRICITY MAINS UNIT The Mains Unit replaces the conventional fusebox. Similar, but larger ones are often fitted in new houses. The unit gives overload and earth leakage protection for the 230v electrical supply in your motorhome. For normal operation all switches on the unit need to be in the ON position. The switches on the left of the unit are known as M.C.B’s (miniature circuit breakers). These take the place of the conventional fuse but are more convenient.
CONNECTING SERVICES - ELECTRICITY 12V ELECTRICAL SUPPLY N.B. The information provided in this Guide relating to fitted equipment is only intended as a quick reference. Comprehensive details of maintenance and fault finding charts where appropriate can be found by referring to the accompanying manufacturers’ literature. If any doubts still exist about the operation of the equipment qualified personnel or your motorhome retailer should be consulted.
CONNECTING SERVICES - ELECTRICITY CONTROLS The mains protection devices are located to the right hand side of the unit, and consists of a 25 amp RCD (Residual Current Device) which will rapidly break the mains circuit should a fault occur. At the left hand side of the RCD are two MCBs (Miniature Circuit Breakers) which protect the individual mains circuits within the motorhome against overloading. Situated above the RCD is an illuminated ON/OFF switch which turns the Battery Charger/Power Supply ON or OFF.
CONNECTING SERVICES - ELECTRICITY FUSES GENERATORS Replacement fuses must be made only with fuses of equivalent values, and of the same type as the originals. Correct values of each fuse are clearly marked on them. When using a generator to supply the P C.II ensure that the actual output voltage does not exceed the rated generator output voltage, and the rated input voltage of the P.C.il, otherwise internal damage to the P.C.11 unit could occur.
CONNECTING SERVICES - ELECTRICITY AUTOSTRATUS/CASTAWAY CONTROL PANEL “PC-200” 13) It shows the connection to the 230V net. 14) It shows that the minimal voltage device has switched on. 15) It shows the drink water tank test, the blinking means empty tank alarm. 16) The blinking shows the full waste water tank. 17) It shows the unit of measure: U=Volt, I=Internal temperature, E=External temperature. 18) It shows the temperature unit of measure. 1) Main switch (see minimal voltage control).
CONNECTING SERVICES - ELECTRICITY COMPASS AVANTGARDE ELDDIS AUTOQUEST CONTROL PANEL The control panel consists of a gauge, three switches and two indicator lights. GAUGE The gauge will normally show the voltage in the vehicle or auxiliary battery depending on the position of the AUX/VEH change over switch. The gauge can also show the water level in the inboard water tank (see Water Switch). Water Pressing and holding the ‘Water’ switch will cause the gauge to show the water level in the fresh water tank.
MOTORHOME EQUIPMENT TRUMA ULTRASTORE WATER HEATER N.B. If only the cold water system is being used the heater tank will still be filled with water and to avoid frost damage it should always be drained as described below. This water heater features a dual source system of water heating powered by Liquid Petroleum Gas or 230V mains electricity. For a faster heating up period the appliance can be simultaneously operated with gas and electricity. The holding tank has a capacity of 10 litres.
MOTORHOME EQUIPMENT GAS OPERATING INSTRUCTIONS Control Panel (Gas Operation) 5. Any air in the gas supply line may take up to a minute to clear. If the red indicator light comes on wait 5 minutes and switch on again. Switching Off Switch the heater off using the slide switch (a), draining it if there is a risk of frost. WARNING: Never operate the water heater without water in it. Always remove the external cowl prior to using the water heater. Switching On 1.
MOTORHOME EQUIPMENT HYGIENE STERILISING THE SYSTEM The water tank in the Truma Ultrastore is made of high quality stainless steel, however, in order to avoid colonisation of micro-organisms the tank should be heated up to 70°C (with electrical heater) at regular intervals. Water from the hot tap should not be used for drinking.
MOTORHOME EQUIPMENT CLEANING It is recommended that a non-abrasive damp cloth is used for cleaning the Elite Tap/Shower. Microswitch Replacement: A microswitch replacement kit is available (ref. MT8000). NOTE: Before commencing microswitch replacement ensure instructions are read through thoroughly. The entire process can be completed without the need to remove the tap from the worktop. BEFORE YOU START 1. Ensure pump is isolated. 2. Position lever in central, i.e. mixer, off location.
MOTORHOME EQUIPMENT OPERATION CLEANING OF ALL TAPS These taps are operated by turning the separate hot and cold taps. To get the desired water temperature turn on both hot and cold taps. It is recommended that a non-abrasive damp cloth be used for cleaning the Elegance taps and showers. PLEASE NOTE A. When only the hot water tap is turned on the temperature of the water can be very high. B. For winter storage the taps must be left in the fully open position.
MOTORHOME EQUIPMENT STYLE 2000 MONO-MIX The Mono-Mix (Fig. 5) is a single lever controlled mixer unit which is mounted through a table or work surface. Hot and cold water are supplied independently to the inlet of the unit, under the work surface and mixed water delivered through a single outlet pipe to the tap or shower. When the control lever is rotated (90° from OFF to fully ‘ON’) a microswitch operates the water pump to pressurise the water system.
MOTORHOME EQUIPMENT end of the season with a sterilising fluid, e.g. Chempro SDP or similar. Then flush the system through with clean water for approximately 30 seconds. 4. If the pump fails to deliver water, the most likely cause will be air in the system. Switch off the pump and shake the pump assembly in the water. Then switch on again. WATER FILTER SYSTEM CARVER CRYSTAL 3 FILTER SYSTEM The Carver Crystal 3 Filter is designed to bring water into your motorhome in a convenient and efficient manner.
MOTORHOME EQUIPMENT CHANGING THE FILTER CARTRIDGE When inserting a new filter cartridge into the housing, smear vegetable oil on the two ‘0’ rings. (This reduces friction and makes it easier to remove.) It is recommended that the filter cartridge is replaced after 30 days of use. Plug the pump assembly into the socket. Turn the top security clip anti-clockwise and the bottom security clip clockwise to lock the plug in place.
MOTORHOME EQUIPMENT CAUTION! Only use one source of energy at a time. SMOKE ALARM Your motorhome is fitted with a Space Heater. FOR FULL OPERATIONAL INSTRUCTIONS FOR YOUR SPACE HEATER, REFER TO MANUFACTURER’S INSTRUCTIONS FOUND IN THE OWNER’S INFORMATION PACK AND IT IS STRONGLY RECOMMENDED THAT THESE INSTRUCTIONS ARE READ THOROUGHLY BEFORE OPERATING THE APPLIANCE. OVEN, HOB & GRILL Your motorhome is fitted either with a hob and grill or an oven with a hob and grill.
MOTORHOME EQUIPMENT WARNING! • Cold Weather Use - To prevent freezing during cold weather use, add antifreeze to the toilet system fresh water tank. Use a non-toxic (propylene-glycol) type of antifreeze. Refer to chart on container to obtain level of protection. • Warmer weather or longer intervals between emptying the waste tank may require additional toilet fluid. Use only Thetford toilet fluid to achieve the best results. CAUTION: Never add toilet fluid directly into toilet bowl.
MOTORHOME EQUIPMENT AIR CONDITIONING ROOFLIGHTS BLIZZARD 1500 AIR CONDITIONING UNIT Your motorhome is fitted with at least one type of rooflight. STARTING AND FUNCTION SELECTION 1. Internal temperature control thermostat. THE OMNIVENT (12V) ROOFLIGHT The Omnivent is a double glazed rooflight constructed from a synthetic ultra-violet screened material. Its side operating mechanism allows a completely free central opening with built-in fixed ventilation when closed. 2. Two speed fan switch. 3.
MOTORHOME EQUIPMENT THE HEKI 2 ROOFLIGHT 1. To open to the tilted position: a) Press the knob in the toggle catches on either side of the glass and turn through approx. 90°. b) Grasp the metal bar in the middle, snap it out of its holder, swivel down and press the glass dome upwards. (Glass dome is held by the two gas springs after approx. 150mm), c) Swivel the metal bar towards the glass down and snap into its holder. d) To close the glass dome, proceed with steps (a-c) in reverse order. 2.
MOTORHOME EQUIPMENT The guarantee becomes null and void if these instructions are not followed. BLINDS AND FLYSCREENS BLINDS Pull blind down by its centre catch. Do not pull down by one side of the blind. This will inevitably lead to problems. Do not allow blinds to spring back freely. Always control them by hand. FLYSCREENS To operate the flyscreen, either pull the screen fully down, fully up or across, dependant on type of window fitted.
MOTORHOME EQUIPMENT Now remove the battery cover by pressing in firmly and sliding out of its case. Connect the flying lead to the battery, fit it into the space provided and replace the battery cover. Refit the control box onto its mounting plate and slide down until it ‘clicks’ into position. Finally check that the key switch on the control box is turned clockwise, otherwise the alarm will not work.
MOTORHOME EQUIPMENT DOORS To comply with European Standards, the exterior door must not be replaced with a double dead lock. The shower room door is fitted with a two position push button lock, Push once to lock. Push again to release.
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CARE OF YOUR MOTORHOME This section of the guide is devoted to the care, cleaning and general preservation of your motorhome in order to retain its showroom condition. Most stains or marks can be removed with mild dishwashing detergent, but more stubborn marks may require a (fine grit) rubbing compound such as T-cut.
CARE OF YOUR MOTORHOME NOTE: Should scratches appear on the acrylic windows these can often be removed with an acrylic polish, i.e. ICI perspex polish. Gentle polishing with a liquid metal polish, i.e. Brasso may also have the desired effect - consult your retailer BEFORE attempting to remove any but the slightest scratch.
CARE OF YOUR MOTORHOME SYSTEMS 1. Drain down the system. (Open all taps to allow air in, enabling the system to drain quickly.) 2. Remove any water filters fitted, and replace with a short length of hose or empty filter cartridge (this will ensure the filter is not affected by the disinfectant/ sterilant solution). 3. Fill the system by using the pump with a disinfectant/sterilant solution. (Check that the solution at full strength appears at all taps/showers).
WARRANTY THE EXPLORER GROUP LIMITED ("EXPLORER GROUP") 3 YEAR MANUFACTURERS WARRANTY Congratulations on selecting your new Explorer Group product. Subject to the conditions set out on the following page, your purchase is backed up by a manufacturers warranty for 3 years from the date of purchase at no additional cost to you the customer. We sincerely hope you will never have cause to complain about your purchase.
SERVICING MOTORHOME ANNUAL SERVICE RECORD Your motorhome needs servicing at least once a year. Whether you use your motorhome for short journeys or for touring at home or abroad, regular servicing will help to ensure that you can enjoy it to the full. The Annual Service offered by your Retailer will include the following work and it is our recommendation you have your motorhome serviced to this standard annually. Your Retailer will complete the record in this handbook to show the work has been carried out.
SERVICING ANNUAL SERVICE RECORD MOTORHOME MODEL ............................................................................................................................................................................... VEHICLE IDENTIFICATION NUMBER ................................................................................................................... YEAR ..........................
SERVICING 7th SERVICE 8th SERVICE 9th SERVICE DATE: DATE: DATE: RETAILER’S STAMP RETAILER’S STAMP RETAILER’S STAMP I/We certify that an annual service has been carried out in accordance with the manufacturer’s and National Caravan Council recommendations. I/We certify that an annual service has been carried out in accordance with the manufacturer’s and National Caravan Council recommendations.
WARRANTY IF YOU HAVE A “WARRANTY” PROBLEM We sincerely hope you will never have cause to complain about your motorhome. However, if things do go wrong, the course of action for you is to contact your retailer and explain the difficulty you are having. We are confident they will do their utmost to resolve the problem to your complete satisfaction. The retailer from whom the motorhome is purchased is liable for warranty repairs.
HOW TO MAKE YOUR BEDS CASTAWAY AND AUTOSTRATUS A D A B D C B C D A Step 1 Step 2 B C D Lift and slide out the bed slats from under (B+C) Place cushions as shown.
EQUIPMENT LIST AVANTGARDE / AUTOQUEST AUTOSTRATUS/CASTAWAY FRIDGE RM 4230 FRIDGE RB - RM6505 / FB & RG - RM6291 HEATER TRUMA S 3002P PIEZO HEATER TRUMA S 3002A AUTO INTERNAL BLOWN AIR SYST (OPTION ONLY) TRUMA ULTRAHEAT INTERNAL BLOWN AIR SYST TRUMA ULTRAHEAT WATER HEATER TRUMA ULTRASTORE 10LTR WATER HEATER TRUMA ULTRASTORE 10LTR SINK & DRAINER SPINFLO TOP FIX SINK & DRAINER SPINFLO ARGENT OVEN UNIT (OPTION ONLY) CAPRICE 20 20 OVEN UNIT MIDI PRIMA HOB UNIT 20 20 MINI GRILL HOB UN
AUTOSTRATUS TECHNICAL SPECIFICATIONS 2004 Base Vehicle No. of Berths/Designated Passenger Seats Exterior Length Overall Width Overall Height Maximum Headroom Interior Width Tyre Pressure Front Rear Bed Sizes Option 1 Maximum Front Axle Weight Maximum Rear Axle Weight M.T.P.L.M. Mass in Running Order Essential Habitation Equipment Maximum User Payload RG RB FB PEUGEOT (350LWB) 2.8 4/1 7350mm (24’1.5”) 2400mm (7’10.5”) 2850mm (9’4”) 1975mm (6’5.5”) 2224mm (7’3.
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CASTAWAY TECHNICAL SPECIFICATIONS 2004 Base Vehicle No. of Berths/Designated Passenger Seats Exterior Length Overall Width Overall Height Maximum Headroom Interior Width Tyre Pressure Front Rear Bed Sizes Option 1 Maximum Front Axle Weight Maximum Rear Axle Weight M.T.P.L.M. Mass in Running Order Essential Habitation Equipment Maximum User Payload RG RB FB PEUGEOT (350LWB) 2.8 4/1 7350mm (24’1.5”) 2400mm (7’10.5”) 2850mm (9’4”) 1975mm (6’5.5”) 2224mm (7’3.
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AUTOQUEST TECHNICAL SPECIFICATIONS 2004 100 200 300 Base Vehicle No. of Berths/Designated Passenger Seats Exterior Length Overall Width Overall Height Maximum Headroom Interior Width Tyre Pressure Front Rear Bed Sizes Option 1 PEUGEOT (290SWB) 2.0 4/3 5356mm (17’7”) 2200mm (7’2”) 2895mm (9’6”) 2145mm (7’3”) 2074mm (6’9”) 44psi 44psi O/Cab Double 2085 x 1200mm (6’9” x 3’11”) 1 x Double 1850 x 1190mm (6’1” x 3’10”) PEUGEOT (290 SWB) 2.
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AVANTGARDE TECHNICAL SPECIFICATIONS 2004 100 200 300 400 400RL Base Vehicle No. of Berths/Designated Passenger Seats Exterior Length Overall Width Overall Height Maximum Headroom Interior Width Tyre Pressure Front Rear Bed Sizes Option 1 PEUGEOT (290SWB) 2.0 4/3 5356mm (17’7”) 2200mm (7’2”) 2895mm (9’6”) 2145mm (7’3”) 2074mm (6’9”) 44psi 44psi O/Cab Double 2085 x 1200mm (6’9” x 3’11”) 1 x Double 1850 x 1190mm (6’1” x 3’10”) PEUGEOT (290SWB) 2.
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RETAILER SPECIAL EDITIONS 2004 EXPLORER GROUP RETAILER SPECIAL EDITIONS PARENT MODEL RETAILER SPECIAL PARENT MODEL RETAILER SPECIAL AVANTGARDE XPEDITION AMAZON SUNTOR CLASSIQUE SUNSEEKER AUTOQUEST FIRESTORM SUNTOR ALL EXPLORER GROUP MOTORHOME RETAILER SPECIALS ARE BASED ON OUR CURRENT BASE MODELS.