Winnebago Sunstar 2023 SAFETY AND PRECAUTIONS User Manual

SAFETY AND PRECAUTIONS

GENERAL WARNINGS

• Only seats equipped with seat belts are to be occupied while the vehicle is moving. Make sure all passengers have seat belts fastened. Lap belts should fit low on the hips and upper thighs. The shoulder belt should be positioned snug over the shoulder.
• For pregnant women:
  Never place the shoulder belt behind your back or under your arm. Adjust the lap belt across your hips/pelvis, and below your belly. Place the shoulder belt across your chest (between your breasts) and away from your neck. Child restraints should be installed properly according to manufacturer’s instructions. See “Child Restraints”.
  All moveable or swiveling seats should be placed and locked in travel position while the vehicle is moving.
  Never let passengers stand or kneel on seats while the vehicle is moving.
  Sleeping facilities are not to be utilized while vehicle is moving.
  Examine the escape window and be familiar with its operation.
  Inspect the fire extinguisher monthly for proper charge and operating condition. This should also be done before beginning a vacation or any extended trip.

WARNING
Operating, servicing and maintaining this vehicle can expose you to chemicals including engine exhaust, carbon monoxide, phthalates, and lead, which are known to the State of California to cause cancer and birth defects or other reproductive harm. To minimize exposure, avoid breathing exhaust, do not idle the engine except as necessary, service your vehicle in a well-ventilated area and wear gloves or wash your hands frequently when servicing your vehicle. For more information go to
www.P65Warnings.ca.gov/passenger-vehicle.

DRIVING SAFETY

WARNING
This motorhome has been designed, manufactured and tested with concern for the protection of it’s occupants. We recommend you perform the following inspections for your safety and the safety of your passengers before starting your vehicle.

1. LP GAS SYSTEM – Turn off at tank for traveling. Test for leaks upon arrival at destination before lighting pilots.
   WHEELS – Inspect for damage and check lug nuts for tightness.
   TIRES – Inspect for wear and damage and check for recommended air pressure.
2. LIGHTING – Test for proper operation of all interior and exterior lights including dash lights, headlights, tail lights, brake lights, clearance lights, and turn signals.
3.  EXITS – Inspect release mechanism on emergency exit window, test both locks on main entrance door for ease of operation and instruct passengers how to use both means of exit.
4. SEAT BELTS – Direct passengers to designated seats, be certain swivel seats are locked into position, and require use of a seat belt. See operator’s manual for occupancy and weight restrictions. APPLIANCES – Turn off and latch or lock doors where provided.
5. LOOSE PARCELS – Store securely.
6. UTILITY SUPPLY LINES – Disconnect all electrical, sewer and water lines and secure properly.
7. ENTRANCE DOOR STEP – Assure step is in the retracted position for traveling.

Read your motorhome and chassis owner’s manual for further precautions.

• Do not attempt to adjust the driver’s seat while the vehicle is moving.
  Do not adjust tilt steering in a moving vehicle.
• Do not operate the cruise control on icy or extremely wet roads, winding roads, in heavy traffic, or in any other traffic situation where a constant speed cannot be maintained.
  Use care when accelerating or decelerating on a slippery surface. Abrupt speed changes can cause skidding and loss of control.
  Never drive the vehicle with a slideout room extended.
  Driving through water deep enough to wet the brakes may affect the stopping distance or cause the vehicle to pull to one side. Check brake operation in a safe area to be sure they have not been affected. Never operate any vehicle if a difference in braking efficiency is noticeable.
  Adverse weather conditions and extremes in terrain may affect the handling and/or performance of your vehicle. Refer to your chassis manual for complete and related information on driving your vehicle.
  Doors – Verify all interior and exterior doors are shut and/or stowed and latches are in place where provided.

FUEL AND PROPANE GAS

DANGER
All pilot lights, appliances, and their ignitors (see operating instructions) shall be turned off before refueling of motor fuel tanks and/or propane containers. Can cause ignition of flammable vapors, which can lead to a fire or explosion and result in death or serious injury.

WARNING
Do not fill propane container(s) to more than 80 percent of capacity.
A properly filled container contains approximately 80 percent of its volume as liquid propane.
Overfilling propane container(s) can result in uncontrolled propane flow, which could lead to a fire or explosion and result in death or serious injury.

WARNING
Do not place propane cylinders inside the vehicle.
Propane cylinders are equipped with safety devices that relieve excessive pressure by discharging propane to the atmosphere.
Propane gas is highly flammable.
Can lead to a fire or explosion and result in death or serious injury.

• Do not place or store gasoline or other flammable liquid containers inside the vehicle.
  All pilot lights must be extinguished and appliances turned off while refilling the fuel tank or propane gas tank.
  Never smoke while refilling vehicle fuel tank or propane gas tank.
  Never use an open flame to test for propane gas leaks. Replace all protective covers and caps on propane system after filling. Make sure valve is closed and the door is latched securely.
  Never connect natural gas to the propane gas system.
  Do not turn burner controls to “On” and allow gas to escape before using ignitor or lighting a match.
• Portable fuel-burning equipment, including wood and charcoal grills and stoves shall not be used inside the recreational vehicle. The use of this equipment inside the recreational vehicle may cause fires or asphyxiation.
  Propane gas regulators must always be installed with the diaphragm vent facing downward. Regulators are equipped with a protective cover. Make sure that the regulator vent faces downward and that the cover is kept in place to minimize vent blockage, which could result in excessive gas pressure causing fire or explosion.
  The following warning label is located in the cooking area to remind you to provide an adequate supply of fresh air for combustion.

DANGER
Do not use gas cooking appliances for comfort heating. Can lead to carbon monoxide poisoning, which can lead to death or serious injury.

WARNING
Gas cooking appliances need fresh air for safe operation.

Before operating:
Open vents or windows slightly or turn on exhaust fan prior to using cooking appliance. Gas flames consume oxygen, which should be replaced to ensure proper combustion. Improper use can result in death or serious injury.

Unlike homes, the amount of oxygen supply is limited due to the size of the recreational vehicle, and proper ventilation when using the cooking appliance(s) avoids dangers of asphyxiation. It is especially important that cooking appliances not be used for comfort heating, as the danger of asphyxiation is greater when the appliance is used for long periods of time. Failure to comply could result in death or serious injury.

PROPANE GAS LEAKS

Check propane gas system for leaks yearly, or as necessary.
The following label is located in the vehicle near the range area. If you smell gas within the vehicle, quickly and carefully perform the procedures listed.

DANGER
IF YOU SMELL PROPANE

1. Extinguish any open flames and all smoking materials.
2. Shut off the propane supply at the container valve(s) or propane supply connection.
3. Do not touch electrical switches.
4. Open doors and other ventilating openings.
5. Leave the area until odor clears.
6. Have the propane system checked and the leakage source corrected before using again.

Ignition of flammable vapors could lead to a fire or explosion and result in death or serious injury.

Propane Gas Leak Detector

Your motorhome is equipped with a Propane Gas Leak Detector, similar to the one shown in the following photo. The leak detector sounds an alarm if an unsafe amount of propane gas is present inside the motorhome.

Propane Gas Leak Detector

WARNING
EXPLOSION HAZARD: DO NOT use an open flame to test for gas leaks. When testing for gas line leaks with a soapy water solution, DO NOT use a detergent containing ammonia or chlorine. These substances may generate a chemical reaction causing corrosion to gas lines, resulting in dangerous leak conditions. Death or serious injury can result.

Power Connection
The Propane Gas Leak Detector is powered by the house batteries. If the House/Coach Battery Disconnect switch is shut off or the battery cable is disconnected from the batteries, the alarm will not work. The Propane Gas Leak Detector fuse or circuit breaker is located in the 12-volt house electrical load center.
Because the Propane Gas Leak Detector is connected to the house battery, it is always drawing a small amount of current. Even though this current draw is slight, it could drain the house battery during storage periods when the house battery will not be charged regularly by the engine or shoreline.

Replacement
When replacing this alarm, we recommend replacing only with the same model, or with one that is also listed for RV application. We recommend obtaining a replacement from your Winnebago Industries® dealer.

Further Information
See the manufacturer’s user guide provided in your InfoCase for further instructions.

CARBON MONOXIDE WARNING

WARNING
Avoid inhaling exhaust gases, as they contain carbon monoxide, which is a colorless, odorless, and poisonous gas. Death or serious injury can result.

The best protection against carbon monoxide entry into the vehicle body is a properly maintained engine exhaust and ventilation system.

It is recommended that the exhaust system and body be inspected by a qualified motorhome service center:

1. Each time the vehicle is serviced for an oil change.
2. Whenever a change in the sound of the exhaust system is noticed.
3. Whenever the exhaust system, underbody, or rear of the vehicle is damaged.

To allow proper operation of the vehicle’s  ventilation system, keep front ventilation inlet grill clear of snow, leaves, or other obstructions at all times. DO NOT OCCUPY A PARKED VEHICLE WITH ENGINE RUNNING FOR AN EXTENDED PERIOD. Do not run engine in confined areas, such as a garage, except to move vehicle into or out of the area.

CARBON MONOXIDE ALARM

Your motorhome is equipped with a Carbon Monoxide (CO) Alarm, which has a sensor that is designed to detect toxic carbon monoxide gas fumes resulting from incomplete combustion of fuel. It will detect CO gas from any combustion source such as the furnace, gas range/oven, water heater, refrigerator, chassis engine, and electric generator engine.
To reduce the risk of carbon monoxide poisoning, test this alarms operation after the motorhome has been in storage, before each trip, and at least once per week during use by pressing the Test/Reset button on the alarm.

Carbon Monoxide Alarm

WARNING
Failure to replace this product by the “REPLACE BY DATE” printed on the alarm cover may result in death by Carbon Monoxide poisoning.

Replacement
When replacing this alarm, we recommend replacing only with the same model, or with one that is also listed for RV application. We recommend obtaining a replacement from your Winnebago Industries® dealer.

Further Information
Please read the information provided by the manufacturer, which is included in your InfoCase for further information.

SMOKE ALARM

Your motorhome is equipped with a Smoke Alarm (located on the ceiling in the lounge area.) The Smoke Alarm is powered by a 9-volt battery and has a sensor that is designed to detect smoke.

Smoke Alarm

The following label is affixed to the Smoke Alarm.

WARNING
Test smoke alarm operation after vehicle has been in storage, before each trip, and at least once per week during use. Failure to do so can result in death or serious injury.

Replacement
When replacing this alarm, we recommend replacing only with the same model, or with one that is also listed for RV application. We recommend obtaining a replacement from your Winnebago Industries® dealer.

Expiration and Further Information
See the manufacturer’s information in your InfoCase for smoke alarm expiration and further instructions.

FIRE EXTINGUISHER

A dry chemical Fire Extinguisher is located near the main entrance door.
We recommend that you become thoroughly familiar with the operating instructions displayed on the side of the Fire Extinguisher and in the information supplied in your InfoCase.
We also recommend that you inspect the Fire Extinguisher for proper charge at least once a month in accordance with National Fire Protection Association (NFPA) recommendations as stated on the label.
If the extinguisher is past its expiration date or charge is insufficient, the Fire Extinguisher must be replaced.

NOTICE
Do not test the fire extinguisher by discharging it. Partial discharge can cause leakage of pressure or contents, which would render the unit inoperative when needed. When using the fire extinguisher, aim the spray at the base of the fire.

Replacement
If for any reason you must replace the Fire Extinguisher, the replacement must be the same type and size as the one originally supplied in your motorhome. We recommend obtaining a replacement only from your Winnebago Industries® dealer or a reliable RV parts supplier.

ELECTRICAL

• Careless handling of electrical components can be fatal. Never touch or use electrical components or appliances while feet are bare, while hands are wet, or while standing in water or on wet ground.
• Improper grounding of the vehicle can cause personal injury. Do not plug the utility power cord into an outlet which is not grounded and do not adapt the plug to connect to a receptacle for which it is not designed.
  Do not attach an extension cord to the utility power cord.
• Do not use any electrical device that has had the ground pin removed.
  Avoid overloading electrical circuits. Replace fuses or circuit breakers with those of the same size and amperage rating only. Never use a higher rated fuse or breaker.
• Use caution when handling or working near electrical storage batteries. Always remove jewelry and wear protective clothing and eye covering. Avoid creating sparks.

LOADING

• 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. Be aware of GVWR, GAWR, and individual load limit on each tire or set of duals (See “Loading the Vehicle” in Section 12 -Miscellaneous).
  Never load the motorhome in excess of the gross vehicle weight rating or the gross axle weight rating for either axle.

MAINTENANCE

1. Do not remove the radiator cap while engine and radiator are still hot. Always check coolant level visually at the see-through coolant reservoir.
2. Never get beneath a vehicle that is held up by a leveling system (if equipped), or a jack only.
3. Always release the air prior to getting under the vehicle (if equipped).
4. Do not mix different construction types of tires on the vehicle, such as radial, bias, or belted tires, as vehicle handling may be affected. Replace tires with exact size, type, and load range.
5. Refer to the chassis manual for complete maintenance precautions and recommendations.

EMERGENCY EXIT

Escape Window
The escape window is secured by a red safety locking bar at the bottom of the window.
To open, lift up slightly to get the bar out of the retention latch, then pull the bar straight towards the inside. The window can then be pushed outward.

Escape Window
Lift up on the bar slightly to clear the retention latch, then pull the bar straight towards the inside.
-Typical View

Escape Window
With the bar straight push outward to open the escape window.
-Typical View

POWER SOFAS AND BEDS

WARNING
Keep people away from operating mechanism and pinch hazard areas during use. Failure to do so could cause injury.

SLIDEOUT ROOMS

WARNING
Your motorhome may have more than one slideout room. Understand which switch operates which slideout room prior to operation. Make sure all slideout rooms are clear of people who could be harmed or obstacles that could cause damage prior to operating any slideout rooms. Failure to observe can result in death or serious injury.

Check inside and outside the vehicle to make sure that there are no people who could be harmed or obstacles that could cause damage due to room activation.

WARNING
Keep all persons clear of the slideout room and moving parts while extending or retracting. Do not occupy the slideout room while it is being extended or retracted. Failure to observe can result in death or serious injury.

ROOF AND LADDERS

–If Equipped
WARNING
STAY OFF ROOF. Surface may be slippery. Falling could result in death or serious injury.

The ladder on your motorhome 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 Operator’s Manual before using a ladder.

1. Maximum Capacity: 225 lbs.
2. Do not overload. Ladder is intended for one person.
3. 0Make sure you are physically capable to safely use the ladder. Strength, flexibility, and stability are required.
4. Be aware that the vehicle may sway as you climb the ladder. Do not use the ladder in high winds.
5. 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.
6. Never allow children on the ladder.
7. Do not transport items anchored to the ladder. You could damage the ladder.

FORMALDEHYDE INFORMATION
Some of the materials used in this recreational vehicle emit formaldehyde. Eye, nose, and throat irritation, headache, nausea, and a variety of asthma-like symptoms, including shortness of breath have been reported as a result of formaldehyde exposure. Reaction to formaldehyde exposure may vary among individuals. Elderly persons and young children, as well as anyone with a history of asthma, allergies, or lung problems may be at greater risk. Research is continuing on the possible long-term effects of exposure to formaldehyde. Inadequate ventilation may allow formaldehyde and other contaminants to accumulate in indoor air. Ventilation to dilute the indoor air may be obtained from a passive or mechanical ventilation system. Always be sure to thoroughly ventilate your recreational vehicle before and during each use. High indoor temperatures and humidity may raise formaldehyde levels. When a recreational vehicle is in areas subject to high temperatures, an air conditioning system can be used to control indoor temperature levels. If you have any questions regarding the health effects of formaldehyde, consult your doctor or local health department.

MOLD, MOISTURE, AND YOUR MOTORHOME

What is Mold?
Molds are part of the natural environment. They are as old as the Earth itself and mold spores are almost everywhere at some level waiting to grow. Mold plays a part of nature by breaking down dead organic matter, such as fallen leaves and dead trees. Indoors however, mold growth should be avoided. Molds reproduce by means of tiny spores. Those spores are invisible to the naked eye and float throughout the outdoor and indoor air. Because of the nature of the use of a motorhome, it is natural for a motorhome to be introduced into an environment with mold spores.
Mold is a plant and requires its own special environment to grow. That environment includes organic materials, nutrients, moisture, and proper temperature.

How Can I Avoid Mold?
To reduce the ability for mold to grow, you must reduce what constitutes its growth environment. Mold can grow with the smallest of a nutrient base. Just small amounts of dirt or dust on the carpet can be enough to allow the mold process to begin. Keep the environment as clean as possible. Vacuum the carpet. Clean food spills thoroughly and quickly. Avoid grease buildup near the stove or sink. Clean the exhaust fan above the stove often. Minimize moisture in your motorhome and keep humidity low. Clean spills quickly. Do not allow condensation to build up. You can open windows and vents to minimize condensation. Use of the air conditioner can assist in removing moisture from the air. Avoid leaks, but if leaks do occur, make repairs promptly. Avoid bringing mold into your motorhome. Plants, cloths, books, and other household items may already have mold present. It is easy to transfer mold into your motorhome environment. Monitor your motorhome. Periodically check those hidden areas in corners, closets, and cabinets to assure mold is not present.

What if I Find Mold?
If mold develops, clean the area with a concentrate of soap and bleach. Items that contain mold that cannot be cleaned should be removed from the vehicle.

Can Mold Harm Me?
The effects of mold and airborne mold spores may cause irritation to some people. Experts disagree on the level of exposure that may cause health concerns.

If Mold Is Present, What Will Winnebago Industries® Do?
If Winnebago Industries determines that mold is present in the motorhome as a result of a manufacturing defect reported to Winnebago Industries within the limited warranty period, Winnebago will clean the affected area(s) and/or replace affected items as it deems necessary. This is the extent of coverage provided by Winnebago Industries. Winnebago Industries, however, will not assume responsibility for mold deemed to be a result of a motorhome users lack of timely and appropriate action to mitigate circumstances should a problem occur.
If Winnebago Industries determines that mold is present due to conditions it determines is not a result of a manufacturing defect found within the  warranty period, Winnebago Industries will not provide any financial assistance to the repair of the condition.

ROADSIDE EMERGENCY

Because of the size and weight of this vehicle and its tires, and the possible complications involved in tire changing, we strongly advise obtaining professional road service to change a flat tire whenever possible. However, if an emergency requires you to change the tire yourself, please exercise extreme caution and read all tire changing information in the chassis manual.
Never get beneath a vehicle that is held up by a jack only.

If You Get A Flat Tire

1. DO NOT panic.
2. Grip the steering wheel firmly and steer the vehicle as straight as possible. Avoid quick maneuvers. You may need to counter-steer to compensate for “pull” created by the failed tire.
3. DO NOT stomp on the brake. This abruptly shifts the vehicle’s weight forward, making it nose-dive and pull toward the blown-out side.
4. DO NOT jerk your foot off the accelerator. Just ease back on the accelerator slowly and gently to continue momentum. The deflated tire will slow the vehicle.
5. If you must change lanes to get to a safe stopping place, use your signals to warn other motorists and change lanes smoothly and carefully after you are certain the lane is clear.
6. Let the vehicle coast to a stop, gently steering to a safe stopping place off the traffic lanes of the road. Do not worry about damaging the tire or wheel rim by driving on it. A tire or wheel replacement is cheaper than damaging the vehicle or injuring yourself.
7. When you have come to a stop, activate your hazard flashers to warn other motorists, then exit the vehicle carefully.
8. Set out flares or other warning devices.

Check your tires for proper inflation before each trip and at least once a month with an accurate tire gauge.

Recovery Towing
When calling a professional towing service, we recommend that you advise them of your motorhome length and approximate front axle weight listed on your Vehicle Certification Label. This will allow the towing operator to determine the proper towing equipment to use. Winnebago Industries® does not assume responsibility for damage incurred while towing this vehicle.

NOTE: Consult your chassis manual for towing instructions or precautions provided by the chassis manufacturer.

NOTICE
Do not lift on bumper. Damage will result to front end body parts.

WARNING
Stay out from beneath the motorhome while it is suspended by the towing assembly. Do not allow passengers to occupy a towed vehicle. Death or serious injury can result.

JUMP STARTING

To jump start the engine using another vehicle or booster system, see the chassis manual for connecting jumper cables to the automotive electrical system.

NOTICE
Do not attempt to push start this vehicle. Damage to the transmission or other parts of the vehicle will occur.

ENGINE OVERHEAT

If you see or hear steam escaping from the engine compartment or have any other reason to suspect an extreme engine overheating condition, pull the vehicle over to the roadside as soon as it is safe to do so, stop the engine, and get all passengers out of the vehicle.

NOTICE
Operating a vehicle under a severe overheating condition can result in damage to the vehicle.
For information on what to do in case of overheating, consult the chassis manual.

Reference Links

View Full User Guide: Winnebago Sunstar 2023 User Manual

Download link: https://www.winnebago.com/owners/owner-resources/manuals-and-diagrams/operator-manuals