1986 Chevy Lazy Daze Owners Manual

The 1986 Chevy Lazy Daze is a classic motorhome built on a Chevrolet chassis, featuring a 454 cubic inch V8 engine, 3-speed automatic transmission, power steering, power brakes, and comprehensive RV amenities including fresh water system, holding tanks, propane system, electrical systems, and climate control. Below are key sections for operation, maintenance, specifications, and troubleshooting.

1. Vehicle Overview 2. Driving Operation 3. Living Area Systems 4. Technical Specifications 5. Maintenance Schedule 6. Electrical Systems 7. Plumbing & Water Systems 8. Propane System Operation 9. Winterization & Storage 10. Safety Information 11. Troubleshooting

Vehicle Overview

Key components: Chevrolet chassis with 454 V8 engine, motorhome body, driver controls, living amenities, utility systems.

ComponentDescription
Engine454 cubic inch V8 gasoline engine
Transmission3-speed automatic transmission
BrakesPower-assisted disc brakes front, drum rear
SteeringPower steering system
Fuel SystemDual fuel tanks with selector switch
SuspensionHeavy-duty suspension for motorhome application
Electrical12V DC and 120V AC systems
PropaneLP gas system for appliances
WaterFresh water and waste water systems
Climate ControlFurnace and roof air conditioning

Driving Operation

Pre-driving inspection and operation procedures.

  1. Pre-trip inspection: Check tires, fluids, lights, propane shutoff.
  2. Starting procedure: Ensure parking brake set, transmission in Park.
  3. Driving considerations: Allow for increased stopping distance, wider turns.
  4. Fuel selection: Use regular unleaded gasoline only.

WARNING! Motorhome is tall and heavy; be aware of clearance heights and weight distribution.

Living Area Systems

Operation of interior amenities and systems.

  1. Electrical systems: 12V DC for lights, water pump; 120V AC when connected to shore power.
  2. Water system: Fresh water tank fill, water pump operation, water heater.
  3. Refrigerator: Operates on 120V AC, 12V DC, or propane.
  4. Furnace: Thermostat-controlled forced air heating.
  5. Air conditioning: Roof-mounted AC unit operation.

CAUTION! Ensure proper ventilation when using propane appliances.

Technical Specifications

Maintenance Schedule

Regular maintenance intervals and procedures.

Every 3,000 miles: Oil and filter change, tire pressure check, fluid levels inspection.

Every 6,000 miles: Chassis lubrication, brake inspection, cooling system check.

Every 12,000 miles: Transmission service, fuel filter replacement, spark plugs.

Seasonal: Water system winterization, roof seal inspection, propane system check.

Electrical Systems

Dual electrical systems operation and maintenance.

  1. 12V DC system: Powered by chassis battery and coach battery.
  2. 120V AC system: Operates when connected to shore power or generator.
  3. Converter/charger: Maintains coach battery when connected to shore power.
  4. Circuit breakers: Main panel location and reset procedures.

Tip: Monitor battery levels; avoid deep discharging coach batteries.

Plumbing & Water Systems

Fresh water and waste water system operation.

  1. Fresh water fill: Locate fill port, use potable water hose only.
  2. Water pump: Switch operation, winterizing procedure.
  3. Water heater: Electric and propane operation, drain procedure.
  4. Waste systems: Gray and black water tank operation and dumping.
  5. Winterizing: Use RV antifreeze in water lines for cold weather storage.

WARNING! Never drink from water system without proper sanitization.

Propane System Operation

LP gas system for appliances and safety procedures.

  1. Propane tank: Location, filling procedures, gauge reading.
  2. Appliance operation: Refrigerator, furnace, water heater, stove.
  3. Safety features: Leak detector, regulator, shutoff valves.
  4. Leak check: Soapy water solution method for connection checking.

WARNING! Turn off propane at tank during travel and when not in use.

Winterization & Storage

Preparing motorhome for seasonal storage.

Drain all water systems, add RV antifreeze to plumbing lines, remove batteries for storage, cover tires, clean interior thoroughly, ensure propane system is off and empty.

CAUTION! Failure to properly winterize can cause costly water system damage.

Safety Information

Important safety procedures and emergency information.

Fire extinguisher locations and operation, emergency exit operation, carbon monoxide detector testing, first aid kit location, emergency contact information. Always use wheel chocks when parked, maintain working smoke and CO detectors.

Troubleshooting

SymptomPossible CauseCorrective Action
Engine won't startBattery, fuel, ignitionCheck battery connections, fuel level, ignition switch.
No 12V powerBattery, fuses, converterCheck battery charge, main fuses, converter operation.
Water pump not workingPower, fuse, pumpCheck 12V power, replace fuse, inspect pump.
Refrigerator not coolingPower source, levelingEnsure proper power source selected, check level.
Furnace not ignitingPropane, thermostat, batteryCheck propane supply, thermostat setting, 12V power.

Emergency: Carry emergency road service information and basic tools.

Service: Contact authorized Lazy Daze service centers for major repairs.

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