Winnebago Adventurer 2022 MISCELLANEOUS User Manual
MISCELLANEOUS
LOADING THE VEHICLE
NOTE: Your motorhome’s load capacity is designated by weight, not by volume, so you cannot necessarily use all available space when loading your motorhome.
- Store or secure all loose items inside the motorhome before traveling. Possible overlooked items such as canned goods or small appliances on the countertop, cooking pans on the range, or free-standing furniture items can become dangerous projectiles during a sudden stop or evasive maneuver.
Be aware of GVWR, GAWR, and individual load limit on each tire or set of duals. When loading the vehicle, distribute the cargo load equally so that you do not exceed either the Front or Rear Gross Axle Weight Rating (GAWR) or the Gross Vehicle Weight Rating (GVWR). The Gross Axle Weight Rating (GAWR) means the weight value specified by the chassis manufacturer as the load carrying capacity of a single axle system as measured at the tire-to-ground interfaces. This is the total weight a given axle is capable of carrying. Each axle has its own rating. - Have your vehicle weighed to determine the proper load distribution for your vehicle. Also distribute cargo side-to-side so the weight on each tire or dual set does not exceed one half of the GAWR for either axle.
For example, if the Front GAWR is 6,000 lbs., there should be no more than 3,000 lbs. on each tire. (If the left side weighs 3,100 lbs. and the right side weighs 2,700 lbs., at least 100 lbs. of the load must be shifted from the left side to the right side.) The GVWR is listed on the Vehicle Certification Label. (See sample in Section 1 – Introduction).
The GCWR (Gross Combination Weight Rating) means the maximum allowable loaded weight of this motorhome and any towed trailer or towed vehicle.
NOTE: We recommend that you dump all holding tanks before traveling to avoid carrying unnecessary weight.
WARNING
The weight of the loaded vehicle (including options, attachments, passengers, water, fuel, luggage, and all other cargo) must not exceed the GVWR or GAWR of either axle.
WEIGHING YOUR LOADED VEHICLE
To check the weight of your fully loaded motorhome, locate a commercial weighing scale that is capable of weighing large trucks.
NOTE: Sales literature may give approximate or standard weights. Your actual motorhome weight may differ based on added factory and/or dealer options.
Loading
Load your vehicle completely as if you were going on a long trip with everything you would carry, including food, clothing, bedding, lawn chairs, etc., a full fuel tank, full propane tank, and a partial tank of fresh water, but empty holding tanks. Remember, tongue weight must be included in the GVWR.
Finding a Scale
In urban areas, the most common places to find a public access scale are commercial truck stops. In rural areas, most grain storage elevators have scales available. Most scales charge a nominal fee for weighing a vehicle.
Weighing
There is typically a scale operator to direct you but the basic routine is to take three separate weights – front axle, whole vehicle, and rear axle. You will first drive only your front wheels onto the scale pad, then drive ahead so that the whole vehicle is on the scale, then finally pull off until just the rear wheels are on the pad.
Front GAWR (Front Axle Only)
GVWR – Whole Vehicle (All Axles)
Rear GAWR (Rear Axle Only)
You will receive a weight “ticket” that states your current Front Gross Axle Weight, Rear Gross Axle Weight, and Gross Vehicle Weight. You can compare these weights to the weight ratings listed on your Vehicle Certification Label to use as a guideline for future loading limits and weight distribution. The gross weight of the vehicle must not exceed the Gross Vehicle Weight Rating (GVWR) specified on the Vehicle Certification Label. The front and rear axle weight also should not exceed the corresponding Axle Weight Rating specified on the Vehicle Certification Label.
Corner Weighing (Side-to-Side)
The most accurate method of weighing a motorhome is to weigh each “corner” of the motorhome separately (single L/R front wheels or L/R rear dual sets.) This method will help you determine how to distribute your cargo to avoid overloading, especially on tires. To determine the weight distribution on each tire or dual set, you will need to find a scale capable weighing side-to-side, or all four “corners” of the vehicle, separately. A truck scale may be used if the ground is level with the scale surface and the scale has clearance to drive one side of the motorhome onto the scale as shown. Drive the motorhome on the level area next to the scale and straddle the scale so that only one side of the motorhome will be on the scale pad.
NOTE: Wind and precipitation can also cause weight inaccuracies. Pull only the right front wheel onto the scale pad as shown.
Weighing Right Front Corner
When the front wheel has been weighed, pull the motorhome straight ahead until only the right rear wheel/dual set is on the scale pad as shown.
Weighing Right Rear Corner
Now, turn the motorhome around and repeat the process for the other side. The load on each wheel or dual-wheel set should not exceed one-half of the corresponding GAWR. For example, if the GAWR for the rear axle is 12,000 lbs., then the load on each rear dual set (left rear duals or right rear duals) should not exceed 6,000 lbs. Tires must be filled to the recommended air pressure for the highest loaded tire set on that axle. For example, on the rear axle, if the left side weighs more than the right, fill the left tires to the pressure required for that weight, then fill the right tires to the same pressure as the left ones. If your actual weight is considerably less than GAWR, you may be able to lower your tire pressure. See a tire dealer for a load/pressure chart.
NOTE: The Hitch Load from a Towed Vehicle or carrier box must also be counted on the Rear GAWR and subtracted from the rear axle cargo capacity. Be aware that hitch load can affect handling characteristics. The more weight on the hitch, the lighter the front end will feel at the steering wheel.
CAR OR TRAILER TOWING
Hitch Capacity 5,000 lbs. max. Tongue Weight* 500 lbs. max
The factory installed towing hitch on this motorhome is capable of pulling 5,000 lbs. load (max.), however, the vertical (tongue) weight may vary according to chassis and model combinations (*see label on hitch). Towing capacity may be less than hitch rating. When towing a trailer or vehicle, do not exceed either the GVWR, the rear axle GAWR, or the chassis GCWR (the combined loaded weight of the motorhome and the towed vehicle). See preceding items “Loading the Vehicle” and “Weighing Your Loaded Vehicle” for explanation of weight ratings. Because of individual vehicle use and loading habits, we recommend weighing the vehicle while fully loaded to avoid exceeding any of the listed Gross Weight Ratings. See “Vehicle Certification Label” in the Introduction section for information on gross weight ratings. Towing will affect vehicle handling, durability, and fuel economy. Exceeding any of the listed Gross Weight Ratings will result in unacceptable overall vehicle performance. Maximum safety and satisfaction when towing depends on proper use of correct equipment. When towing a vehicle behind your motorhome, the tow bar should be level or pointing slightly upward towards the tow vehicle.
When coupling the vehicle tow bar to the Factory Receiver Hitch using a “drop receiver” or a conventional “ball mount” (commonly referred to as a “stinger” or a “draw bar”), do not exceed a 4” drop, nor one that the centerline of the hitch pin to the centerline of the ball exceeds 8”. See the following Hitch Assembly illustration.
Hitch Assembly
If a towing “brake system” is required, we recommend that a “modulated” towed vehicle braking device be installed. This means that when the motorhome brakes are applied, whether hard or soft, a mirror effect occurs in the braking of the towed vehicle. In other words, the more force applied to the motorhome brakes, the more force will be applied to the rear vehicle’s braking system. We do not recommend the usage of a “surge- style” braking device. The usage of a surge brake (especially when coupled with a hitch ball located outside our recommended limits) places excessive stress on the hitch. This abuse of the ball mount and the hitch may cause premature hitch assembly failure. Finally, do not forget to consider the actual tongue weight. This should not exceed the stated hitch vertical load for your vehicle. This weight is typically defined as the tongue weight of a towed vehicle hitch, boat trailer tongue weight, or a receiver-mounted carrier rack. Check state regulations on trailer weight and trailer brake requirements to be sure you select the right equipment before towing. Before descending a steep or long grade when towing a trailer, reduce speed and shift into a lower gear to control vehicle speed. Avoid prolonged or frequent application of brakes which could cause overheating and brake failure.
WARNING
For safe towing and vehicle handling, maintain proper trailer weight distribution. The total weight of the motorhome and the vehicle towed must not exceed the Gross Combined Vehicle Weight rating. See the “Body and Chassis Specification” chart in the Introduction section.
NOTICE
Exceeding any of the recommended gross vehicle weight ratings may result in vehicle damage. Do not install a frame equalizing-type hitch on your vehicle.
TRAILER WIRING CONNECTOR
Your motorhome is pre-wired for trailer or car towing lights with a 7-pin socket.
The following diagram shows proper connection of trailer or tow vehicle wiring to the motorhome light system. The “pigtail” assembly with the (car/trailer end) connector plug should be wired by a qualified technician. The trailer brake controller connector is located to the left of the steering column.
TOWING GUIDELINES
Gross Vehicle Weight Rating
(GVWR)
This is the maximum allowable weight of the fully loaded vehicle. Included are fuel, water, LP, passengers, cargo, tools, and optional equipment installed by the motorhome manufacturer, dealer, or owner. This value is found on the VIN label, typically placed near the driver position.
Gross Axle Weight Rating (GAWR)
This is the total weight a given axle is capable of carrying, measured at the ground. Each axle has its own rating. These values are also found on the Vehicle Certification Label: front and rear.
Gross Combination Weight Rating (GCWR)
This is the maximum allowable weight of the motorhome and loaded trailer, including the items noted in GVWR above. For purposes of this definition, the “trailer” can be a trailer, a vehicle towed on a dolly, or a vehicle towed by means of a tow bar. GCWR is typically specified based on durability and performance of the tow vehicle drive train: engine and cooling systems, transmission, drive line, drive axle, and others. The tow vehicle brakes may be rated for operation at GVWR, not GCWR.
NOTE: State or provincial laws/regulations may require the “trailer” to be equipped with brakes that are activated when the motorhome brakes are applied. The user is responsible to know and understand the laws of the state or province being traveled. The Department of Transportation in a given state or province should be able to provide specific information.
Hitch Ratings
SAE Standard J684 defines:
- Class 1 trailers as “GVWR not to exceed 2,000 lbs”.
- Class 2 trailers as “GVWR over 2,000 lbs. and not to exceed 3,500 lbs. GVWR”.
- Class 3 trailers as “GVWR over 3,500 lbs. and not to exceed 5,000 lbs. GVWR”.
- Class 4 trailers as “GVWR over 5,000 lbs. and not to exceed 10,000 lbs. GVWR”. Hitches are to be permanently marked with
“Maximum trailer GVWR to be drawn” and “Maximum vertical tongue weight to be imposed.” The SAE standard does not specify a vertical load rating.
Traditionally, hitches are labeled 3,500/350 as Class 2, 5,000/500 as Class 3, and 10,000/1,000 as Class 4. The vertical tongue load value of 10 percent of drawn rating comes from the collective experience that 10 percent is the minimum value that provides stable towing of a trailer. Ford’s towing guide suggests 10 to 15 percent for trailers over 2,000 lbs. Within GCWR, a Class 3 hitch allows “dingy” towing a large car or mid-size SUV; a Class 4 hitch allows “dingy” towing a large SUV or pickup. (Hitch ratings are independent of towing vehicle ratings.)
NOTE: Some Winnebago Industries® models equipped with a Class 3 hitch may have a label limiting vertical tongue load to 350 lbs. Some Winnebago Industries models equipped with a Class IV hitch have a label limiting vertical tongue load to 500 lbs. On a 228″ wheelbase, a 500-lb. load on a hitch 11′ from the rear axle will apply about 800 lbs. at the axle.
The user must verify that the hitch equipment being used is adequate for the application.
FIREPLACE
–If Equipped
The fireplace can be operated by either the remote control or the control panel.
Further Information
Refer to the Fireplace user guide provided in your Info Case for complete operating and maintenance instructions, as well as safety precautions.
STEP (ENTRY) – ELECTRIC
–If Equipped
WARNING
Do not use step unless fully extended. Do NOT stand on step when vehicle ignition switch is turned to either the “On” or “Start” position.
The step will automatically retract, which may cause personal injury.
The power switch for the electric entry step is located to the left of the main entry door as you enter the motorhome.
Entry Step Switch
(Located near entrance door)
-Typical View
The step has several automatic extend/retract functions that are controlled by the position of a sensor mounted on the inner edge (hinge side) of the screen door.
Automatic Mode – Entry Step Switch ON (Step Operates with Door)
With the Step switch in the ON position, the step is in Automatic Mode. This means it will extend and retract automatically whenever the screen door is opened or closed.
Red Activation Lever
- The red Activation Lever located on the entry step switch must be depressed in order to put the step switch in the ON position.
Stationary Extended Mode – Step Switch OFF (Step Remains Extended)
With the Step power switch in the OFF position, the step will extend when the screen door is opened and will stay extended whether the door is opened or closed.
NOTE: The step switch is “locked” in the OFF position. This position is normally used to keep the step extended when parked at a campsite or whenever people will be going in and out the vehicle frequently.
Automatic Retraction Feature
The step is equipped with an automatic retraction feature that stores the step automatically if the main entry door is closed and the Ignition Switch key is turned to the On or Run positions. The step WILL RETRACT even if the Step switch is OFF. This feature is intended to prevent injury or damage by an extended step while the vehicle is moving.
Further Information
For additional information on the step, see the manufacturer’s operators manual included in your InfoCase.
WINDOWS
Crank-Out Windows –If Equipped
To open, begin cranking the window out “counter-clockwise” to desired position.
-Typical View
- To close, crank the window in snugly (by turning the window handle “clockwise”), then back off 1/4 turn to help avoid glass warping, which can result in wind noise.
Horizontal Slider Windows
–If Equipped
Push the top of the latch towards the window to unlock, then grasp the sliding window edge frame and slide the window to the side. Ensure the latch is open before trying to slide the window closed.
-Typical View
POWER ROOF VENTILATOR
–If Equipped
The vent dome is raised and lowered using the Dome Crank knob on the fan.
Power Roof Ventilator
- Pull Dome Crank Knob to unlock, then turn counter-clockwise to open lid. Push in the Dome Crank Knob to lock the Vent Lid when open or closed.
Press the Fan ON switch to turn on the fan. Press the Fan ON switch again to cycle through four (4) speeds; after high-speed, the fan cycles back to low.
Open a window or door to provide airflow. Direction of airflow is determined by which window or door is opened.
Press the Fan OFF switch to turn off the fan. - NOTE: For best results, close all other roof vents, windows, and doors, then open one (1) window the farthest distance from the roof ventilator. The fan speed selector on the fan allows you to adjust the amount of circulation you need at any time.
Further Information
See the power ventilator manufacturer’s operating instructions supplied in your InfoCase for further instructions, care, and cleaning information.
POWER ROOF VENTILATOR
–If Equipped
Power Roof Ventilator
NOTE: For best results, close all other roof vents, windows, and doors, then open one (1) window the farthest distance from the roof ventilator. The fan speed selector on the fan allows you to adjust the amount of circulation you need at any time.
Further Information
See the power ventilator manufacturer’s operating instructions supplied in your InfoCase for further instructions, care, and cleaning information.
AWNING – POWER
–If Equipped
The Power Awning switch is located on the control panel just inside the entrance door.
Power Awning Switch
(Located near entrance door)
-Typical View
CAUTION
Pinch Hazard. Ensure there are no people who could be harmed or objects that can be damaged. Failure to heed this warning could result in severe injury and/or property damage.
Operating the Awning
Press the Power Awning switch IN or OUT to extend or retract the Awning as desired.
Ignition Lockout System
The ignition lockout system will disable the extend function while the vehicle ignition key is in the On position. With this feature, the Awning will only extend when the vehicle ignition key is in the Off position. The Awning can retract anytime regardless of the ignition key position.
Further Information
For complete operating instructions, features, safety precautions, and maintenance care, refer to the Awning manufacturer’s user guide provided in your InfoCase.
STORAGE COMPARTMENT DOORS
The high-density gaskets used on the exterior storage compartments are designed to provide a more positive seal against dust and weather.
To ensure that exterior storage compartment doors have latched properly, press firmly on the bottom or side edges of the doors with the palms of your hands.
TOOL AND LADDER STORAGE
–If Equipped
The roof ladder extension and various tools supplied with your motorhome are stored in one or more of the exterior storage compartments.
NOTE: Actual features and locations may vary depending on model, available equipment, and storage compartment configuration.
ROOF LADDER
–If Equipped
WARNING
STAY OFF ROOF. Surface may be slippery. Falling could result in death or serious injury.
The ladder on your vehicle is provided for limited access to the roof.
Walking or working on the roof should be left to qualified service personnel using proper safety equipment in a safe environment. You should only walk or work on the roof if you are qualified and have created a safe environment. For your safety, it is not recommended that you store or carry items on the roof.
Before Using the Ladder
- Inspect the ladder to make sure it is not damaged. Never use a damaged ladder.
Keep the rungs of the ladder clean and dry while in use. Never use the ladder when it is raining, snowing, or icy. The rungs can become slippery. Do not step onto the rungs if the rungs are wet, or if your shoes are wet or carry mud or debris that could result in a loss of footing.
Never ignore warning labels or weight limits defined on your ladder. The following warning label is located on or near the ladder:
WARNING
Do not exceed 225-lb. maximum weight capacity. Misuse of ladder could result in death or serious injury. See Operators Manual before using ladder.
- Maximum Capacity: 225 lbs.
- Do not overload. Ladder is intended for one person.
- Make sure you are physically capable to safely use the ladder. Strength, flexibility, and stability are required.
- Be aware that the vehicle may sway as you climb the ladder. Do not use the ladder in high winds.
- As you climb the ladder, grasp the side rails firmly and always use both hands. Keep your body centered between the side rails. Do not over-reach.
- Never allow children on the ladder.
- Do not transport items anchored to the ladder. You could damage the ladder.
EFFECTS OF PROLONGED OCCUPANCY
Your motorhome was designed primarily for recreational use and short-term occupancy. If you expect to occupy your motorhome for an extended period, be prepared to deal with condensation and humid conditions that may be encountered.
Humidity and Condensation
Moisture condensing on the inside of windows is a visible indication that there is too much humidity inside the motorhome. Excessive moisture can cause water stains or mildew, which can damage interior items such as upholstery and cabinets. When you recognize the signs of excessive moisture and condensation in your motorhome, you should take immediate action to minimize their effects.
You can help reduce excessive moisture inside the motorhome by taking the following steps:
Ventilate with outside air
Partially open one or more windows and a roof vent to circulate outside air through the motorhome. In cold weather, this ventilation may increase use of the furnace, but it will greatly reduce the condensation inside the motorhome.
Minimize moisture released inside the motorhome
Run the range hood fan while cooking and open a bath vent while bathing or showering to carry water vapor out of the motorhome. Avoid making steam from boiling water excessively or letting hot water run. Avoid bringing extra moisture into the motorhome by way of soaked clothing or snow on shoes. Do not hang-dry wet overcoats or clothing inside the motorhome.
Reference Links
View Full User Guide: Winnebago Adventurer 2022 User Manual
Download link: https://www.winnebago.com/owners/owner-resources/manuals-and-diagrams/operator-manuals