Auxiliary Communications Vehicle (ACV)
OPERATOR REFERENCES
US COAST GUARD AUXILIARY
DISTRICT 11 NORTH
AUXILIARY COMMUNICATIONS VEHICLE
Reference Material
1
INDEX
Pages
3–4
Pre-Trip Checklist
5-7
Driver Orientation Checklist
8 - 10
Passenger Orientation Checklist
11 - 13
Standard Features
14 - 16
Five Most Common Large Vehicle Accident Causes
17 - 19
Seven Tips To Improve Your Driving Style
20 – 22
Air Brake Trailing Information
23 – 32
Air Brakes – COLA Exam
33 – 33
Training For The Team
34 – 34
What To Do If You Have An Accident
35 – 40
Body Specifications (Original Factory Order)
2
Pre-Trip Checklist
www.rvbasictraining.com
Date: ___________
Driver conducting checklist: _________________________
Fuel added: yes
no
If so, how many gallons? ________
Start Mileage _______________ End Mileage ___________
Miles Traveled __________
ENGINE CHECK
1) Fluid levels, Coolant Engine Oil
Hydraulic Fluid/Power Steering Fluid Brake Fluid
All Hoses are clamped Belts are tight
No sign of leaks under the coach
LIGHT CHECK
1) Front of Coach clearance lights L & R turn signals
4-way flashers Hi/Lo beams
Horn Fog Lights
2) Rear of Coach clearance lights L & R turn signals
4-way flashers Brake lights
License plate light Reverse lights
SAFETY CHECK
Always conducted in a counter-clockwise direction so driver will
be facing possible on-coming traffic
- Starting at the entrance door, open and close door to make sure
the steps are retracting
- Check Curb-Side front tire for I,C, D (inflation, condition of
the tire, depth of tread 4/32”)
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- Check that Curb-Side compartment doors are latched and
locked
- Check windshield for cleanliness and condition
- Check windshield wiper arms, check each wiper blade
- Check that Road Side compartment doors are latched and
locked
- Check Road Side rear tires for I,C, D (inflation, condition of
the tire, depth of tread 2/32”)
- Check Curb-Side rear tires for I,C, D (inflation, condition of
the tire, depth of tread 2/32”)
- Ensure levelers are up, awning and slides are in, power cord is
disconnected and stowed
From Inside the coach:
- Starting at the rear, move forward making sure all equipment
is secured for travel
- Make final mirror adjustments from the drivers’ seat for optimal
road views
- Test windshield washers for operation
- Upon startup, check for oil pressure and fuel level
- Perform Air Brake C.O.L.A. check
- Make sure Air Brake air pressure is at least 100 PSI in each tank
before moving
- Before moving, do a traffic check to make sure the departure path
is free from hazards
4
DRIVER ORIENTATION CHECKLIST
ACV DIMENTIONS, WEIGHTS, LP, POWER
Length: 33 foot 6 inches
Width: 102 inches wide + Mirrors (standard lane is 144
inches)
Height: 12’ 6” feet. Watch your overhead (Antenna strike ok)
Weight: GVWR 25,500
Trip Weight: ACV 26,000
120 volt master breaker panel (emergency off)
DMV Registration and Insurance location
Master (2) Power On/Off Breakers
DRIVER STATION MANUALS
Driver seat and position (adjust seat)
Instruments front and side panel
Starting the Diesel engine (glow-plug light)
EGT meaning and operation (on/off switch)
Allison Transmission operation (manual/auto)
Tire Pressure monitor on (check tire pressure)
GPS on when driving. Program trip
Adjust outside mirrors
Cruise control operation (level road only)
Steering wheel adjustment
ACV closed-up all inside lockers (Outside bin check)
Turn signals and lights
VHF-FM radio(s), Ham radio(s) and CB on (if needed)
AM/FM DVD Radio
HWH (ACV) leveling system. Green light on
Check door step has retracted when engine is running
Trailer Brake control location and operation
5
BRAKE SYSTEM (Video)
Air Brake system and operation (video training):
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=-R7J9BIjNEw
Parking Brake (AIR) operation (Video):
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=KDjMzmV4bbw
Air Brake test before driving ACV (Video):
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=aieA3RZgJls
Air Brake instruments (PSI 120 LBS)
PacBrake (exhaust braking system) operation
Downhill, most dangerous (go slow). Use PacBrake
Brakes are DRUM and can fade when hot (Don’t over-brake)
Brakes check area (turbo cool down) from hill climb
Total ACV weight 26,000 LBS (13 tons)
Loss of Brake Air Pressure while driving (60 LBS or less)
TIRE BLOWOUT AT (HIGHWAY) SPEED
Front flat tire when driving (Video):
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=lkwOE1yKY5c
Steering safe aftermarket to help track RV (Video):
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=mVI3w3lWumg
CUMMINS DIESEL (MECHANICAL) 8.3 ENGINE
It is a C series mechanical Cummins, 8.3 liters with no engine electronics, one of the most dependable Cummins built.
EXHAUST GAS TEMPERATURE
The exhaust gas temperature (EGT) pyrometer is one of the
most important gauges on a turbo-diesel-powered vehicle. It
can warn the driver of situations that are potentially damaging to the engine, and it can also be used as a guide for optimizing fuel economy
If everything is working properly, 1000º F. (max top of the
Green) is a safe turbine inlet temperature, even for sustained
running, mile after mile. Above 1000º F. things can start to
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get edgy. Remember, excessive EGT damage is cumulative.
Over 1200 F. (in the Red) you're usually gambling against a
stacked deck and it's only a matter of time until melt-down.
The higher the EGT, the shorter the TBO
Keep EGT in the Green when possible and limit EGT in the
Yellow. Do not operate when EGT is in the Red.
The engine is capable of producing enough power to pull the
load in fifth gear at high EGTs; running in fourth gear at lower EGTs is definitely easier on the engine as long as the engine RPM red line is not exceeded. Down shift manually to
lower EGT early when hill climbing. Go slow, flashers on
Down shifting manual to keep RPM up and EGT in the
Green
Most of the time the EGT will run in the center of the Green
when on level roadway
7
PASSENGER ORIENTATION CHECK LIST
HOUSE RULES
Have fun, make yourself at home. Find your space
No smoking in or around the ACV
SAFETY
Safety belts, driver, passenger, two belts on coach
Power step operation, outside entry steps. Switch location
Entry door and locks (key location)
Window emergency exits side and in the rear
Driver and passenger seat location and operation (belts)
Fires extinguisher locations. Inside and outside
Smoke masks, window breaking tool (LifeHammer) location
Location of safety vents, road hazarded stands (triangle)
Tools and spare parts location
Road Side assistance contact info
POWER SORUCES
Shore power (120Volts). Plugged in to city power
Generators (2 x 12Kv) built into ACV (diesel fuel)
Inverter (120Volts). Solar and batteries
12 Volt systems. House lighting, pumps, and heater.
WATER SOURCE
Water from outside ACV (city water). Hooked up to tap water
Water from the ACV water tank (100 gal max). Potable water
Water pump switch location and operation
Bottled water (drinking water)
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BATHROOM *TOILET*TANKAGE
DO NOT dispose of toilet paper in the toilet. Use basket
Toilet operation, foot pedal up/down
Use brush to clear out toilet bowl
Save water when not hooked up. Shower, sink, toilet
Overheard fan (as needed) switch (12 Volts)
Night/day lights are 12Volts. Locate night auto night lights
Bathroom light switch location
TP holder location (cleaning locker)
Sliding Door operation. Do not lock door
Shower operation (how to use the shower heard)
Wipe down shower
Tips to save water when boon docking
Black water tank, Gray water tank, Fresh water tank
GALLEY (KITCHEN)
Microwave oven operation
Refrigerator operation (don’t leave door open)
Location of cups and kitchen items
Junk-drawer and parts cabinet
Food locker. Coffee pot and stores
Trash bin and under sink items
Galley light switch location
Hot water tank switch location and operation
ELECTRONICS
Sound DVD, SAC and TV systems
AM/FM DVD Radio
Internet
HEATING AND AIR CONDITIONER
Heater 120Volts
A/C (120Volts only) and fans (A/C heater system)
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Windows open when parked closed when driving
Thermostat location and use.
INSIDE TOUR
Show and tell. Locker location and items
OUTSIDE TOUR
Show and tell. Locker location and items
Window sun/rain canopies
10
AUXILIARY COMMUNICATIONS VEHICLE
FARBER MODEL: S33WB-MT55-260HP
STANDARD FEATURES
I. DIMENSIONS
1. Overall Length
2. Exterior Width
3. Overall Height
4. Interior Width
5. Interior Headroom
6. Interior Floor Length (behind cab area)
33 ft. 6 in.
102 in.
11 ft. 8 in.
93 in.
86 in.
24 ft.
II. CHASSIS SPECIFICATIONS
1. CHASSIS TYPE
Freightliner MT-55, Front engine
2.
3.
4.
5.
WHEELBASE
GVWR
FRAME
ENGINE
218"
25,500 lbs.
Straight frame rail construction
Cummins ISB, 260 H.P. @ 2500 RPM
550 lb./ft. @ 1900 RPM
Block heater, 1000 watt/ 110-120V
Fan drive Eaton Vicous
6. TRANSMISSION
Allison 2000 series automatic
Water to oil transmission cooler
Transmission oil check and fill
7. ALTERNATOR 12V, 270 amp, Leece Neville, model 4944
8. BATTERY
Two (2) Alliance 931 group 31, 1300 CCA
Automatic self-reset circuit breakers
9. BRAKES
Bosch hydraulic brakes
Anti-lock braking system
Front and rear disc brake shields
FUEL TANK - 90 (U.S.) gallon capacity,
between frame rails. Driver’s side fuel fill
10.
FRONT AXLE 8,000 lb. capacity
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11.
SUSPENSION Front brakes: 15" x 4Q Meritor cam
brakes
FRONT
Front suspension: taper leaf 8,000 lb.
Spring pin bushings: rubber
maintenance free Gabriel front shock
absorbers
12.
REAR AXLE
13.
SUSPENSION 5.57 rear axle ratio
REAR
SPL100 Dana Spicer main driveline
w/half round yoke
Rear brakes: 16.5" x 7Q cast spider cam rear
brakes
Rear oil seals
Parking brake: Transmission mounted
Rear suspension: 18,000 lb. Airliner
Dual instant response rear suspension
leveling valves
Gabriel rear shock absorbers
17,500 lb. capacity, ARS-17-2
14. COOLING - Anti-freeze protection;
ethylene glycol, 50/50, to 35 degrees F
15.
FUEL FILTER Remote mounted, fuel water separator,
with heater
16.
STEERING - TRW power steering pump
Tilt/ telescopic steering column
TAS-65 steering gear
Two-spoke 18" black steering wheel
17.
HORNS
Dual electric
Back up alarm
12
18.
INSTRUMENTS
Electrical fuel level gauge, engine coolant temperature gauge, engine oil
pressure gauge, electronic speedometer with
odometer, voltmeter, electronic tachometer,
ignition switch/keys with integral start and
accessory position
19.
TIRES
20.
WHEELS - Four (4) aluminum wheels and two (2)
inside steel wheels, 22.5 x 8.25, 10 hole hub
255/70R22.5
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FIVE MOST COMNON LARGE VEHICLE
ACCIDENTS
1. Accidents at the fuel pump
When it’s time to refuel, look for an exit where there are several
gas stations available. Use Truck Stops if possible and pull into the
pumps, same as the 18 wheel truckers. Do not pull into the auto refueling area. This gives you a better selection for finding a station
that is easy to navigate in and out of. Think like a trucker.
The two most common incidents at the pump are when you turn
into or away from a concrete island or pole at the gas station. If
you are turning away from the pole, tail swing is the culprit. If
you are turning toward the pole, your pivot point is the culprit.
Tail swing is when you turn the ACV in one direction, and the rear
of the ACV swings out in the opposite direction. Depending on the
vehicle, tail swing can be more than 30 inches.
The pivot point of the ACV is the center of the rear axle. If you
turn in the direction of an object before the pivot point reaches the
object, you will hit it. If you turn in the direction of an object after
the pivot point reaches the object, you will clear it.
2. Right turns
Making right turns made the list of top insurance claims for the
same reason as gas stations. When you make a right turn in your
vehicle, you need to drive out farther than you are accustomed to
before you start into the turn. If you start to make a right turn too
early, before your pivot point clears an object, it can result in hitting an object or driving over a curb.
When you make a right turn, tail swing applies, too. If you are too
close to an object on the opposite side of the direction you are turning in, your tail swing can hit the object.
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3. Height of large vehicles
When you drive an automobile, height is not a concern. An average-size vehicle can drive through or under any bridge, tunnel,
overpass or fast-food drive-thru that you encounter.
When driving the ACV, always be aware of heights. When traveling on back roads, an overpass that you can easily clear in an automobile can result in serious damage to the ACV
RVs, Trucks and low bridges:
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=vj8Bkn9kaLE
4. Backing the vehicle (Don’t back the ACV if you don’t need
to)
Backing an automobile is easy because it’s small and you can look
over your shoulder and see where you’re going. This is not true
with a large vehicle. It’s larger, you cannot just look over your
shoulder, and it requires practice to become proficient.
For starters you should always try to avoid backing from your right
side. This is your blindside. It is much easier to back from your
left. The best method for backing is to have a spotter guide you.
You need to be able to communicate using hand signals or radios.
The spotter needs to be positioned where they can be seen in your
mirror. This means the spotter may need to move as you turn and
back. You should always be able to see each other’s faces during
the backing maneuver. If something doesn’t look right, stop, get
out and look. Always place the spotter on the drive side and lookout the window.
If you need to back the ACV without assistance, walk the area
first. Establish predetermined stop points, and then stop, get out
and check when you reach each predetermined point. Repeat this
process as many times as necessary
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Before you start backing, tap your horn to warn people around you.
Always be on the lookout for small children and pets.
5. Roof and sideswipe damage
This is a big one. It goes back to driving a smaller automobile,
again. In a car you don’t need to be concerned with tree branches
and other overhead obstacles, or with sideswiping a roof overhang
or with hitting a mirror on a bridge.
Always keep in mind that the ACV is wider and taller than an automobile. When you add mirrors and awnings to the equation it’s
even wider. And with items like roof-mounted air conditioners and
antennas, it’s taller too.
When you arrive at the destination, get out and look before attempting to park the unit on the site. Tree branches and other overhead obstacles easily can damage the roof and sides of the ACV.
Use a spotter.
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7 TIPS TO IMPROVE YOUR ACV DRIVING SKILLS
1. Know where your pivot point is and what it means. The pivot
point is defined as the fixed point on a vehicle at which the vehicle
rotates around in a turn. On a two-axle vehicle it is the center of
the rear axle. This means that if an object, for example a tree, is located at the center of the rear axle or behind, you can turn toward
the object and not hit it. If the object is ahead of the pivot point and
you turn toward it, you will hit it.
2. Have an understanding of what off-tracking is and how it affects
the way your coach turns. Off-tracking is the difference between
the path of the front wheels and the rear wheels, during the course
of a turn. You really don’t need to know how much your coach offtracks; you just need to know what it is and how it affects the way
your coach turns.
What is beneficial is to establish what we calls “turn offsets.” A
turn offset is the distance that your coach will travel forward during a turn, in relationship to how far away you were from an object
when you started the turn. It basically shows you how your coach
turns. To establish your turn offsets, park your coach parallel to a
line and 1 foot away (you can do this in a parking lot). Then mark
the line adjacent to your pivot point. Now, turn the wheels full
lock, or as far as they will turn in the direction of the line, and
move forward until the pivot point you established on the coach intersects with the line. Measure the distance you have traveled from
the starting mark that you put on the line, to the pivot point. This is
your turn offset from 1 foot away.
It doesn’t hurt to take these measurements turning both left and
right. This gives you an opportunity to see what it looks like in the
mirrors, and not all vehicles turn the same in both directions. Repeat this exercise at two-, three-, and four-foot intervals from a
parallel line. If you tow something, it’s a good idea to take it with
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you when you try this, to see where the towed vehicle crosses the
line. Then you know what to expect when towing a vehicle.
3. Find out what your tail swing is. Tail swing is the distance that
the body of the coach behind the pivot point moves in the opposite
direction of the front when you turn. To establish what your tail
swing is, stop the ACV with the side of it parked along a straight
line. Then, make a full lock turn away from the line and have
someone measure the maximum swing as you turn. Large vehicles
have a tail swing of 30 inches.
4. After you have your turn offset and tail swing information you
will know exactly what you need to do to properly setup for a maneuver. The setup is the most important part of any maneuver. Setup is how you position the ACV to start a maneuver after taking all
these other factors into consideration. By setting up farther away
from the obstruction and starting to turn earlier, you would be able
to turn into a much smaller lane or opening. Also, by knowing your
tail swing you know at least how far to be from a wall or other objects before you start your turn. In traffic you will need to allow
space in the lane on the opposite side from the direction that you
are turning, for your tail to swing into. Something that really needs
to be stressed here is don’t force a turn. If there is not enough room
to make the maneuver, stop and wait for traffic to clear to complete
your turn. And if it doesn’t look like there is enough room to make
the maneuver, don’t do it!
5. Proper mirror adjustment is an important element to improving
your driving skills. Approximately 30 percent of the hazards you
will encounter come from the rear, so getting the maximum viewing area from your mirrors is critical. If you have the type of mirrors that extend out in front of the vehicle on long arms, make sure
the inside edge of the mirror is flush with the side of the coach.
The majority of large vehicle with mirrors of this type were not set
correctly.
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The best way to check the mirrors is to stand in front of your coach
and sight down the side. The inside of the mirror head should look
like it is just touching the side of the coach. Having the mirror
flush with the side of the coach gives you the best overall view.
Some vehicles taper in on the front and can give you a false setting, so make sure you are looking down the side. On the passenger
side you should set the mirror flush with the outside of the awning
arms. If the mirror is too far in or out, you are losing valuable
viewing area. Adjust the flat part of the mirror so you can just see
the side of your coach along the inside edge and so you are looking
back level with the ground about one-fourth of the way from the
top of the mirror. You really don’t need to see a lot of sky.
6. Establish reference points. In a car you have a hood in front of
you to use as a sight, but in the ACV you have very little in front
of you to assist in staying on course. While you are at the parking
lot to establish your turn data, park the ACV with the driver’s side
of the coach on a long line and see where that line intersects the
bottom of the windshield. If there is no specific reference point,
mark that spot with a piece of tape or other type of marker. Then
move the coach, so the line is on the passenger side, and mark the
windshield the same way. This will give you your limits. These
marks will give your subconscious some help to stay centered in
your lane and maintain a straight course. You should also note
where your windshield marks or any reference points you have established on the dash are when centered on an average-width
roadway.
7. Make sure other adults who travel with you are capable and confident in driving the ACV, too. It’s better to share the driving duties or, at a minimum, have the ability to drive if the need presents
itself.
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AIR BRAKE TRAILING INFO (INSPECTION)
Air Brake Check (Pre Trip Inspection)
Air brake safety devices vary. However, this procedure is designed
to see that any safety device operates correctly as air pressure
drops from normal to a low air condition. For safety purposes, in
areas where an incline is present, you will need to use wheel
chocks during the air brake check. The proper procedures for
inspecting the air brake system are as follows:
Test Air Leakage Rate (Static check) (Pre Trip Inspection)
With a fully-charged air system (typically 120 psi), turn off the
engine, chock the wheels, release (push in) the parking brake
button and time the air pressure drop. After the initial pressure drop,
the loss rate should be no more than 2 psi in one minute for single
vehicles and no more than 3 psi in one minute for combination
vehicles.
Test Air Brake System for Leaks (Pre Trip Inspection)
With parking brake, (all vehicles) and trailer air supply button (for
combination vehicles) released (pushed in), apply firm pressure to
the service brake pedal. Watch the air supply gauge and listen for
leaks. After the initial pressure drop, the loss rate for single
vehicles should be no more than 3 psi in one minute and no more
than 4 psi in one minute for combination vehicles. If the air loss
rate exceeds these figures, have the air system repaired before
operating.
Test Low Pressure Warning Alarm and/or Signal (Pre Trip
Inspection)
Turn the key to the on position. Rapidly apply and release the
service brake pedal to reduce air tank pressure. The low air
pressure warning signal must come on before the pressure drops to
less than 60 psi in the air tank. If the warning alarm/signal doesn’t
work, you could be losing air pressure without knowing it. This
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could cause the spring brakes to activate suddenly. Only limited
braking can be done before the spring brakes come on.
Check That the Spring Brakes Come on Automatically.
Continue to rapidly apply and release the service brake pedal to
further reduce air tank pressure. The trailer air supply button (if it
is a combination vehicle) and parking brake button should pop out
when the air pressure falls to the manufacturer’s specification
(usually between 20 to 40 psi). This causes the spring brakes to
come on.
Check Rate of Air Pressure Buildup (Pre Trip Inspection)
When the engine is operating at 1800 RPM, the pressure should
build from 85 to 100 psi within 45 seconds in dual air systems. (If
the vehicle has larger than minimum air tanks, the buildup time can
be longer and still be safe. Check the manufacturer’s
Specifications.) If air pressure does not build up fast enough, your
pressure may drop too low during driving, requiring an emergency
stop. Don’t drive until you get the problem fixed.
Test Service Brakes (Pre Trip Inspection)
Wait for normal air pressure, release the parking brake and trailer
air supply button (for combination vehicles), move the vehicle
forward slowly (about 5 mph), and apply the brakes firmly using
the brake pedal. Note any vehicle “pulling” to one side, unusual
feel, or delayed stopping action. This test may show you problems
which you otherwise wouldn’t know about until you needed the
brakes on the road.
(1) The wet tank which is fed by the air compressor, usually
through an air dryer
(2) The primary tank, which is fed by the wet tank by means of a
check valve
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(3) The secondary tank, which is also fed by the wet tank by means
of a check valve
The correct sequence in draining the tanks is to drain the wet
tank first in order to minimize the transfer of water/oil to the primary & secondary tanks which provide air to the rest of the braking system. Should the primary or secondary tanks be drained
first, the wet tank will transfer it's contents to that tank.
Both the primary & secondary tanks are connected to air pressure
gages on the dash. You can 'find' the wet tank by draining a tank at
a time; the tank which doesn't cause an air loss on the dashboard
gages is the wet tank
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AIR BRAKES – COLA EXAM
• C = Air compressor cuts in.
• O = Air compressor cuts out.
• L = Low pressure warning.
• A = Air leakage.
? Check air compressor governor Cut-in pressure with the compressor off, and the engine idling, reduce the air tank pressure sufficient to cause the air compressor to cut-in (the gauge pressure
will begin to rise). The air compressor must cut-in no lower than
85 psi.
? Check air compressor governor cut- Out pressure Run the engine
at a fast idle. The air governor will cause the compressor to cut¬out at 130 psi/max; normal acceptable cut-out range is from 110 to
120 psi. The air pressure shown by the gauge(s) will stop rising.
? Test Low pressure warning signal with the engine off, low pressure warning device must activate between 55 and 75 psi.
? Test Air leakage rate with a fully-charged system (typically 125
psi), turn off the engine, release all brakes and then apply full
steady pressure to the brake pedal (brake on) and hold (for one full
minute.) After the initial pressure drop, the air pressure should not
fall more than:
• 3 psi in one minute for single vehicles, or
Note: The COLA test may be performed in any order. The following order is “RECOMMENDED”:
(1) Cut-in pressure.
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(2) Cut-out pressure.
(3) Air leakage rate.
(4) Low pressure warning signal.
This one might be better. It goes backwards however. A.L.O.C.
A = Air
L = Low
O = Cut Out
C = Cut In
AIR BRAKES CHECK (C.O.L.A.)
1. AIR SYSTEM HOSES TEST: Check for any leaks in the system
hoses. Start engine. Build Pressure at 120 psi. Put into low gear.
Stop the engine. Release all brakes. Wait for the needle to stop and
then hold the brake pedal and wait for 1 minute. The pressure cannot lose no more than 4 psi. The needle shouldn’t move during 1
minute.
2. LOW AIR ALARM TEST: Key must be in the on position.
Pump pedal down to range 55 to 75 psi. Alarm working at _____
psi. Put the parking brakes back. Put the vehicle in neutral.
3. GOVERNOR CUT-OUT TEST: Start Engine. Build pressure to
100-130 psi governor - cuts out automatically at _____ psi. Needle
stops moving up. And no more air is coming into the air tank and
the needle stops moving up.
4. GOVERNOR CUT-IN TEST: Pump the pedal down, air pressure should not go lower than 85 psi and the governor is cut-in at
(around 90-95psi). The governor cut-in at ______ psi.
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5. CHECK ALL BRAKES: - Check Trailer Brakes - Check Parking Brakes (tractor) - Check Hand Brakes - Check Pedal Brakes
PUT THE BRAKES (Parking) BACK
AIR BRAKES TEST
1. The safety valve in the air compressor tank is set to open at:
A. 150 psi
B. 200 psi
C. 100 psi
D. 175 psi
2. The Air Compressor Governor controls:
A. When the brakes should be applied
B. When the air compressor pumps air into the storage tanks
C. When the warning light is activated
D. When the air is released from the tank
3. The Governor stops pumping air when it reaches the "cut out"
level, or around:
A. 125 psi
B. 200 psi
C. 225 psi
D. 175 psi
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4. The Governor allows the air to start pumping again when it
reaches the cut in level, or around:
A. 200 psi
B. 100 psi
C. 150 psi
D. 125 psi
5. You should use the parking brake:
A. Only on steep hills
B. On level surfaces
C. Any time you park
D. When the brakes are hot
6. An air tank is equipped with a drain valve to remove:
A. Air and water
B. Oil and air
C. Water and oil
D. Dirt and oil
7. The air compressor is connected to the engine through:
A. Gears
B. Hoses
C. V Belt
D. Both A and B
8. Some air brake systems have an alcohol evaporator which helps:
A. Reduce the risk of ice in the air brake valves during cold weather
B. Remove oil from the air lines
C. Reduce the risk of water in the air brake valves in warm weather
D. Remove fuel from the air lines
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9. The air tank should be drained how often?
A. Once a week
B. Once a day
C. Every four hours
D. Every two or three days
10. When the safety valve releases air it means that:
A. The pressure has exceeded 150 psi
B. Too much air is in the air compressor
C. Something is wrong, and you should have it checked by a mechanic
D. All of the above
11. Brake drums:
A. Are bolted to the wheels
B. Are located at each end of the vehicle's axles
C. Hold the brake shoes and linings
D. All of the above
12. Which type of brake is the most common in commercial vehicles?
A. Wedge brakes
B. Disk brakes
C. S Cam brakes
D. Drum brakes
13.An air pressure gauge:
A. Shows how much pressure you are applying to the brakes
B. Is connected to the generator
C. Releases air when you accelerate
D. Prevents brake failure
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14. When you apply pressure to the brake pedal, you are:
A. Pushing against a spring and against air pressure to the brakes
B. Releasing air pressure to the brakes
C. Reducing air in the tanks
D. Activating the safety valve
15. All vehicles with air brakes are required to have a low pressure
warning signal. This could be:
A. A red light
B. A wig wag mechanical arm
C. A buzzer
D. Any one of the above
16. When the low pressure warning is activated, you should:
A. Wait for the air brakes to come on automatically
B. Bring the vehicle to a safe stop while you still control the brakes
C. Monitor your air pressure gauge and maintain highway speeds
D. Pump the brake pedal hard to stop
17. An emergency brake:
A. Is required on commercial vehicles
B. Must be held on by mechanical force
C. Could be activated by the loss of air pressure
D. All of the above
18. To check the air compressor governor "cut in" and "cut out"
pressures:
A. Run the engine at a fast idle
B. Step on and off the brake to reduce tank pressure
C. Monitor the air pressure gauge
D. All of the above
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19. To check the slack adjusters on S Cam brakes, you should:
A. Leave the parking brakes on and pull on the slack adjuster
B. Wear gloves and pull hard on each slack adjuster
C. Make sure the slack adjusters move more than one inch each
way
D. Drain the air from the system and pull on the slack adjusters
20. With dual air systems, the air pressure should build:
A. From 85 to 100 psi in 45 seconds
B. From 70 to 100 psi in 60 seconds
C. From 85 to 150 psi in 45 seconds
D. From 70 to 150 psi in 60 seconds
21. Compressed air is stored:
A. In the hoses
B. In the engine compartment
C. In the fuel tank
D. In the storage tank
22. A fully charged air system typically has ____ psi:
A. 100
B. 125
C. 150
D. 175
23. To test air leakage rate you should:
A. Leave the engine running and release the service brake
B. Turn off the engine and release the service brake
C. Charge the air system and leave the engine running
D. Depress the brake pedal and monitor the air pressure gauge
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24. A combination vehicle air brake system should not lose air
faster than:
A. 2 psi per minute
B. 3 psi per 30 seconds
C. 3 psi per minute
D. 4 psi per minute
25. To test your service brakes you should:
A. Stop the vehicle and put the parking brake on
B. Release the parking brake, move forward slowly and depress
brakes
C. Put parking brake on and release air pressure
D. Depress brakes when traveling at highway speeds
26. Stab braking occurs when you:
A. Press on the brake pedal as hard as you can
B. Release the brakes when the wheels lock up
C. Apply the brakes when the wheels start rolling
D. All of the above
27. A duel air brake system:
A. Has two air brake systems and one set of controls
B. Takes less time to build air pressure
C. Has one set of air tanks and hoses
D. Must have two warning alarms
28. Air brakes take longer to stop than hydraulic brakes because:
A. The reaction time is longer for the driver
B. It takes longer for the air to flow through the lines
C. The linings get hotter more quickly
D. None of the above
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29. The proper way to go down long grades is to:
A. Use a low gear and push hard on the brakes
B. Let up on the brakes from time to time to cool them
C. Use a low gear and apply light pressure on the brakes
D. Brake on and off down the hill
30. To test the low pressure warning signal, you should do all BUT
the following:
A. Shut the engine off
B. Turn the electrical power on
C. Ask a friend to listen for the signal
D. Step on and off the brake pedal to reduce air pressure
----------------------------------------------------------------------
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Correct answers
1. A
2. B
3. A
4. B
5. C
6. C
7. D
8. A
9. B
10. D
11. D
12. C
13. A
14. A
15. D
16. B
17. D
18. D
19. B
20. A
21. D
22. B
23. B
24. C
25. B
26. D
27. A
28. B
29. C
30. C
--------------------------------------------
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RV TRAINING FOR TEAM.
When driving a vehicle that is 102” wide, (a Class A motor home)
on a road that is 144” wide, (a freeway lane or any new road construction) simple math tells you that if you’re perfectly centered in
your lane, there will be 21” on each side of your vehicle. Add to
this information the fact that your mirrors are allowed by law to be
10 inches away from the side of your vehicle and you can see that
it is tight!
The first thing all new Class A motor home drivers experience is a
feeling of being too far to the left in their lane. This is because
when driving your car, you experience a feeling of space alongside
your car as a result of your peripheral vision. When driving your
motor home you lose that feeling, so how does a driver go about
knowing where they are in the lane. A simple answer, REFERENCE POINTS!
One great reference point is The Bus Drivers’ Trick. When looking up the road you will most often see a “dark” patch in the middle of the road. This is known as the “OIL PATCH” The Bus Drivers’ Trick has your brain telling you that your foot on the Gas Pedal feels like it is on the middle of the Oil Patch as you look up the
road. Really, it’s that simple!
Now you can verify your position in the lane by checking your
convex mirrors and noting that you have the same amount of room
on each side of your vehicle. This is great tip when you get into
construction zones and have K-rail on one side of you and barrels
or cones on the other.
1. Do a Pre-Trip and Set the Mirrors
2. Back a straight line
3. Identify where the back wheels are located
4. Do a tight turn around an object
5. Back into an RV parking space
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WHAT TO DO IF YOU HAVE AN ACCIDENT.
Obviously the first thing you'll want to do is make sure everyone is
OK.
Situational awareness is important. Where are you? What
hazards are there? Fire? Smoke? Electrical wires down?
Make a quick assessment of your people, the ACV and the
trailer then contact the police on 911
If possible check with those in all other involved vehicles to
establish need for emergency equipment... ambulances, fire
engines...to report to police when you contact them.
If you are not too shaken up or injured, gather information
from the other driver(s)... Name, address, phone number, insurance company, policy number, driver & vehicle license
numbers and jot down anything else you might think important about what has happened.
Take photos or have your passenger take photos. Do not
state that you have an operational dash cam, only to the PD.
Do not admit liability or discuss the cause or fault with others
involved. That is my insurance company's job. Call the insurance company right away or as soon as possible to report the
accident and the information you have. If the ACV is drivable the police will let you know when you may leave the scene. Call Coachnet for towing if needed
To remain calm when the ACV has been in an accident is a
lot to ask; remind yourself that it has already happened and
despite frustration there are things that need to be done.
Stuff happens and we know about Murphy’s Law:
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=kwOqARlw1EI
Contact the ACV Coordinator and the District Commodore
or the District Chief of Staff as soon as possible after all safety concerns have been addressed.
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BODY SPECIFICATIONS (Original Factory Order)
1. Body shall be step-van style aluminum body.
2. Loadspace; 93" wide x 86" high x 288" long.
3. Exterior skin to be .125" strain hardened aluminum, buck-riveted to side wall
stiffeners.
4. Roof to be one piece aluminum.
5. Body shall have street-side sedan door with slider window in cab area, continuous
piano hinge and two (2) nylon door straps.
6. Body shall have curbside sedan door with slider window in cab area, continuous
piano hinge and two (2) nylon door straps.
7. Body shall have one (1) curbside sedan door, 32" x 82" with fixed window 21" x
25", continuous piano hinge and two (2) nylon door straps. Aluminum mini blind
provided.
8. Yellow/black warning tape applied to inside of door frame.
9. Body side doors have .125" aluminum treadplate stepwell with automatic courtesy
light.
10. Body shall have one (1) automatic electric steel entry step, black non-skid.
11. Stainless steel grab handles, 24" minimum provided at each entry door.
12. Slam lock hardware to be supplied on all doors.
13. All door locks are to be keyed alike.
14. I-beam wall stiffeners provided 24" on center minimum.
15. Body shall have extruded aluminum floor with interlocking panels.
16. Full body width heavy duty aluminum rear bumper, grated grip strut center, 12"
deep.
17. Fiberglass lift up front hood for engine access.
18. Body to be fully undercoated, including chassis, extrusions, stepwells.
19. Painted steel front bumper to match body color.
20. Mud flaps with anti-sail brackets on rear axle.
21. Heated remote control rear view mirrors with dashboard controls.
22. Tinted safety plate glass windshield with driver and passenger sun visors.
23. Two speed windshield wiper/washer with single heavy duty wiper motor.
24. High-back Magnum 200 mechanical suspension driver’s bucket seat with armrests, lumbar support, tilt back and three point seat belt. Covered in black Tuff Tex
cloth.
25. High-back Magnum 200 mechanical suspension passenger’s bucket seat with
armrests, lumbar support, tilt back and three point seat belt. Covered in black Tuff
Tex cloth.
26. Engine box cover to have acoustical and thermal insulation.
27. Install integral cab air conditioning and heating system with dashboard controls.
28. Custom exterior storage compartments constructed of .125" aluminum with welded seams, sweep out bottoms, box pan doors. All compartment doors to have slam
lock latches and stainless rotary D-ring handle. Hold open latch and compartment
light to be provided.
IV. PAINTING / GRAPHICS
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1. The final finishing of this vehicle shall be to commercial truck standards.
2. The entire apparatus shall then be painted single color, high gloss white.
3. Reflective stripe, 4" wide, provided on sides and rear of the vehicle.
V. DRIVER/PASSENGER CAB AREA
1. Cab subceiling to be 1/2" plywood.
2. Finished ceiling to be sound absorbing, flame retardant, solution dyed polypropylene fiber material, 24 oz. minimum. Class A rated per ASTM E_84. Continuous run from front to rear.
3. Driver and passenger doors to have 1/4" plywood subwall.
4. Doors covered with heavy duty 36 oz. vinyl. Customer selected color.
5. Doors to have bright aluminum treadplate at bottom.
6. Heavy-duty stainless steel grab handles to be installed on interior of each door.
7. Passenger side workstation, constructed of 3/4" plywood to be provided with laminate finish and oak edge. 120V AV and 12V DC outlet provided for workstation.
8. Control panels for 120V AC / 12V DC systems are to be located in the overhead
console. The console is to be constructed of 3/4" plywood and finished with durable laminate.
9. AM/FM/CD player with four (4) speakers. Front and rear volume control.
10. Two (2) front fans for defrosting windshield mounted under overhead console.
11. Install one (1) dome light under front overhead console.
12. Install sign on dashboard with vehicle height listed.
13. Install a payload sticker in cab area with vehicle axle loads and available axle
payload as built.
VI. INTERIOR
1. Bench seats to have sculptured backs and seats. Low density foam required and
heavy duty vinyl to retain original shape. Frame to be 1" minimum, 14-gauge,
high carbon steel tubing or 3/4" plywood material designed to meet or exceed
FMVSS-571. Customer selected fabric or vinyl covering after award of bid.
2. Adjustable ergonomic office type chair, with pneumatic height control, swivel
pedestal and five (5) caster wheels to be provided for each workstation. Chairs
shall be cloth upholstered, seat height and back supports shall be adjustable.
Chairs shall be secured in knee space area for travel by a strap or bungee cord. All
chairs to have protective plastic edge on rear corners to prohibit damage from
countertop edges.
3. Install electric heat as needed to maintain 72 degrees F in zero degree weather.
4. Install one (1) 9V smoke alarm.
5. Install two (2) 5-pound dry chemical fire extinguishers near exit.
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6. Cover load space entry door(s) with 1/2" exterior grade plywood and Kemlite
.090" fire rated fiberglass reinforced plastic (FRP). Door to have .100" bright
aluminum tread plate at bottom.
7. Black out curtains provided for windows, custom fit, heavy duty fabric.
VII. WALLS, CEILING AND FLOOR
1. Insulate walls and ceiling with a minimum of 2-1/2" of fiberglass.
2. Cover interior body sideposts with 3/4" plywood subwall.
3. Cover subwall with Kemlite .090" fire rated FRP lining, or equivalent. Wall covering is to be a continuous piece front to back.
4. Cover interior roof supports with 1/2" plywood.
5. Finished ceiling to be sound absorbing, flame retardant, solution dyed polypropylene fiber material, 24 oz. minimum. Class A rated per ASTM E_84. Continuous run from front to rear.
6. All bulkheads to be finished with Kemlite FRP or laminate.
7. All pocket doors covered with dry erase board finish, trimmed with extruded aluminum. Pocket doors installed on heavy duty aluminum track with recessed handles and latch.
8. Install 5/8" minimum exterior grade plywood underlayment for floor.
9. Floor to be covered with Lonseal Loncoin II Fleckstone, or equivalent, non-skid
commercial grade PVC flooring. The flooring is to be a continuous piece front to
back.
10. Windows provided as shown in floorplan drawing. All windows have radius corners with sliding horizontal tinted glass.
VIII. LAVATORY AND GALLEY
1. Complete restroom per floorplan drawing with solid door.
2. One (1) 10" x 14" stainless steel sink with chrome-plated laboratory style sink
hardware.
3. Marine style, low profile toilet.
4. Water tank and battery monitor in galley area with water pump switch.
5. One (1) Panasonic NS548BAV, 1000 watt microwave oven.
6. One (1)12VDC/120V AC flush mount refrigerator, 3.2 cu. ft. capacity with full
width freezer shelf for ice cube trays, adjustable bins and hermetically sealed
compressor. 12V fan for cooling condenser and compressor.
7. Chrome-plated paper towel dispenser near sink.
8. Chrome-plated toilet paper holder in lavatory.
9. One (1) each GFCI duplex wall outlet in lavatory and galley area.
10. Water pump with accumulator tank, Surflo or equal, 2.8 GPM .
11. Hot water heater, 2 gallon fast recovery, electric.
12. Water inlet with a non-regulated tank fill, with locking access door.
13. All plumbing pressure pipes shall be CPVC.
14. Sewage hose and dump valve shall be provided for holding tank.
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15. Underfloor water and holding tanks are heated with heat tape on exposed water
lines.
16. Winterizing kit installed on water system to allow non-toxic anti-freeze to be used
for winterizing water system.
IX. CABINETS
1. Fabricate and install interior storage cabinets, countertops, shelves, tables and
workstations per floorplan drawing.
2. All cabinet front and sides to be constructed of 3/4" plywood, with laminate finish. Customer selected color.
3. All screws are countersunk and plugged with solid oak plugs.
4. No particle board or fiber board materials to be used in cabinet or cabinet door
construction.
5. All cabinet doors to be finished with dry erase boards.
6. All cabinet doors and drawer fronts to have chrome finished Lamp catches with
deadbolt to prevent opening while vehicle is in motion.
7. All horizontally hinged overhead cabinet doors held open with gas charged lift
support cylinders.
8. All cabinets to be glued and screwed, no staples.
9. Shelves are to be constructed of 3/4" exterior grade plywood with no voids on
sides and have 2" extruded aluminum front lip.
10. All shelving is to be adjustable on 1/2" increments using zinc-plated track and
hardware.
11. All horizontally hinged overhead cabinet doors to be held open with spring loaded
lift support cylinders.
12. All drawers are to use heavy-duty, ball bearing, double-action drawer slides.
13. Countertops to be 3/4" plywood with laminate finish (color to be determined). All
exposed edges to be 3/4" by 1-1/2" oak with a beveled top edge to prevent chipping.
14. Provide a table sized to fit the conference area constructed same as countertops.
Table and legs to be removable.
15. All areas where countertops, cabinets, bulkheads and walls meet to be sealed with
beaded welt or silicone caulking.
16. Install pencil drawers under countertops at each workstation.
X. 120/240V AC ELECTRICAL SYSTEM
1. Install one (2) Twelve KW liquid-cooled diesel generator. The generator is to be
mounted in a custom fabricated galvanized steel compartment with .125" aluminum access door.
2. Generator compartment is to be insulated with high density sound absorbing foam
and oil resistant foil faced lining.
3. Generator shall be plumbed to draw fuel from chassis fuel tank.
4. All 120/240V AC main wiring is to be stranded, bundled and color coded THHN
wire.
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5. All 120/240V wiring run in ENT plastic conduit, raceways or Sealtite.
6. One (1) Kussmaul Auto Eject 20, 20 amp shore power inlet with Kussmaul
autocharge 20 amp, three battery system.
7. Two (2) Cole Hersee M284 master disconnect switches for main battery system
and auxiliary battery system.
8. One (1) Marinco 50A-125/250V AC waterproof shore power inlet, one (1) 36' 50
amp shore power cord with Nema 14P50 connector, 6' 50A pigtail and 50A-to30A-to-15A adapters.
9. One (1) 120/240V AC control panel with generator and shore power main breaker, UL listed magnetic/hydraulic branch circuit breakers with LED indicators to
show activation.
10. Install a minimum of nine (9) duplex wall receptacles with stainless steel covers
at each workstation and customer designated locations.
11. Install two (2) exterior GFI duplex outlets with weather sealed covers.
12. Install two (2) Coleman model 8633 mach 3 P.S. low profile 13,000 BTU air conditioners with 5,600 BTU heat strips.
13. All electrical circuits and appliances shall conform to applicable national electrical codes.
XI. 12V DC ELECTRICAL SYSTEM
1. In addition to the chassis batteries, six (6) Interstate group 27 deep-cycle batteries
to be provided . Batteries shall be installed underbody in slide out weather resistant compartment, with hold open latch and stainless steel paddle latch.
2. All 12V wiring THHN stranded, bundled, color coded and numbered.
3. Two (2) commercial duty fan cooled power converters, 90 amp output minimum
each, for interior/communications 12V power requirements.
4. Install one (1) Sure Power 2403 isolator to allow alternator to charge the main and
auxiliary batteries. The 2403 shall have the alternator connected to the input with
each output going to a battery bank.
5. One (1) Statpower Technologies Trucharge 40 amp multi-stage battery charger,
110V AC 60 Hz to charge main and auxiliary batteries.,
6. Two (2)12V DC main and auxiliary control panels with UL listed magnetic/hydraulic circuit breakers with LED indicators to show activation, 12V voltmeter, and 12V low voltage alarm.
7. Power outlets, 12V located in stainless steel wall plates at each workstation.
8. Install twenty-four (24) 18" white fluorescent light fixtures on ceiling.
9. Install 18" white/red fluorescent light at each workstation, mounted under the
overhead cabinets.
XII. WIRING REQUIREMENTS
1. 2-Gauge minimum copper stranded battery cable to be used for 12V DC main
supply lines. All cable runs to be full length, no splices. All cable terminals are to
be staked and soldered. All cable is to be enclosed in convoluted polyethylene
tubing and the ends of the cable sealed with color coded shrink wrap identifying
the function of the cable.
39
2. All added electrical circuits shall be protected from over current by resettable circuit breakers appropriately rated for the load.
3. Circuit breaker functions are to be identified by engraved or printed labels.
4. All added wiring for load runs shall be AWG 8, 10, 12, 14 and 18 and must conform to MIL-W-1678D type D.
5. All wiring shall be numbered or lettered on 6" centers minimum.
6. All wiring is to be protected from chafing and abrasion.
7. Where wire passes through sheet metal, bulkheads and structural supports plastic
grommets shall be used to protect both wiring and wire looms.
All wiring supported on 12" centers minimum. Wire bundles tied and trimmed on
6" center minimum.
NOTE: Model numbers for individual equipment are subject to change from equipment
manufacturers. Lens colors for emergency lighting per customer request. Chassis
specifications are subject to model year changes.
All vehicles delivered with as built interior and exterior AutoCad drawings. Complete
wiring schematics provided with each vehicle.
40