1986 Airstream B190 Manual

The 1986 Airstream B190 is a Class B motorhome built on a Ford E-350 chassis, featuring a 460 cubic inch V8 engine, 3-speed automatic transmission, and comprehensive RV amenities including sleeping accommodations, galley kitchen, wet bath, electrical systems, plumbing, heating, and storage. Below are key sections for operation, maintenance, systems, and troubleshooting.

1. Vehicle Specifications 2. Exterior Features 3. Interior Layout 4. Electrical Systems 5. Plumbing & Water Systems 6. Heating & Cooling 7. Galley Operation 8. Sleeping Accommodations 9. Maintenance Schedule 10. Troubleshooting 11. Safety Information

Vehicle Specifications

Key components: Ford E-350 chassis, 460ci V8 engine, 3-speed automatic transmission, dual battery system, propane system, freshwater and waste water tanks.

FeatureDescription
ChassisFord E-350 cutaway
Engine7.5L (460ci) V8 gasoline
Transmission3-speed automatic C6
Fuel Capacity35 gallons
GVWR9,200 lbs
Length19 feet
Fresh Water Capacity20 gallons
Gray Water Capacity20 gallons
Black Water Capacity10 gallons
Propane Capacity20 lbs

Exterior Features

External components and access points for maintenance and operation.

  1. Main entrance door with screen
  2. Awning mounting points
  3. Propane tank compartment
  4. Electrical hookup (30 amp)
  5. Water fill port
  6. Sewer drain connections
  7. Exterior storage compartments
  8. Roof vent and fan

WARNING! Check clearance height before driving. Vehicle height approximately 9 feet.

Interior Layout

Cabin layout from front to rear: Driver/passenger seats, galley, dinette, wet bath, rear sleeping area.

  1. Front cab with swivel seats
  2. Galley kitchen with sink, 2-burner stove, refrigerator
  3. Dinette converts to additional sleeping area
  4. Wet bath with toilet and shower
  5. Rear full-size bed with under storage
  6. Overhead cabinets throughout

CAUTION! Secure all items before driving. Use seat belts when vehicle is in motion.

Electrical Systems

Plumbing & Water Systems

Fresh water system operation and maintenance procedures.

Water Pump: 12V demand pump, automatic operation. Water Heater: 6 gallon propane/electric. Toilet: Cassette or permanent black tank with foot pedal flush.

  1. Fill fresh water tank through exterior port
  2. Turn on water pump switch for system pressure
  3. Set water heater mode (propane or electric)
  4. Monitor tank levels regularly
  5. Winterize with RV antifreeze when temperatures below freezing

Heating & Cooling

Climate control systems for comfortable camping in various conditions.

  1. Furnace: Forced air propane heat, thermostat controlled
  2. Water Heater: 6 gallon capacity, propane or electric operation
  3. Refrigerator: 3-way (propane, 12V DC, 120V AC) absorption type
  4. Roof Vent: Manual or powered ventilation
  5. Windows: Screened opening windows throughout

Tip: Ensure adequate ventilation when using propane appliances.

Galley Operation

Kitchen appliances and their proper operation.

  1. Refrigerator: Allow 24 hours to cool on propane; level vehicle for proper operation
  2. Stove: 2-burner propane cooktop with electronic ignition
  3. Sink: Single basin with manual or electric water pump
  4. Storage: Cabinets for food and cooking supplies
  5. Counter Space: Limited preparation area with cutting board cover

WARNING! Never operate propane appliances while driving. Ensure ventilation when cooking.

Sleeping Accommodations

Two primary sleeping areas: rear bed and dinette conversion.

Rear Bed: Full-size mattress, access from both sides, under-bed storage. Dinette Bed: Converts from seating area to sleeping surface approximately 48" x 72".

Maintenance Schedule

Regular maintenance tasks to keep your B190 in optimal condition.

Every Trip: Check tire pressure, fluid levels, propane system. Monthly: Test all systems, clean surfaces, check for leaks. Annually: Professional inspection of chassis, propane system, brakes.

CAUTION! Have propane system inspected by qualified technician annually.

Troubleshooting

SymptomPossible CauseCorrective Action
Refrigerator not coolingNot level/propane offLevel vehicle; check propane supply; ensure proper ventilation
No water pressurePump off/empty tankTurn on water pump; fill fresh water tank; check fuse
Furnace not ignitingPropane/battery issueCheck propane supply; ensure house battery charged; check thermostat
Electrical systems deadBattery/main fuseCheck house battery; reset main breaker; check converter operation
Water leakConnection/fittingInspect all connections; tighten fittings; check for cracked lines

Reset: Turn main power switch off/on to reset electrical systems.

Service: Contact Airstream dealer or qualified RV service center

Safety Information

Critical safety information for operation and habitation.

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