1986 Coachman RV Manual

The 1986 Coachman RV is a classic recreational vehicle featuring durable construction, reliable mechanical systems, and comfortable living amenities. This manual covers operation, maintenance, troubleshooting, and safety procedures for various systems including electrical, plumbing, heating, appliances, and chassis components. Below are key sections for features, operation, maintenance, specifications, and troubleshooting.

1. Features at a Glance 2. Vehicle Specifications 3. Operating Instructions 4. Systems Overview 5. Maintenance Schedule 6. Appliance Operation 7. Electrical System 8. Plumbing System 9. Heating & Cooling 10. Safety Procedures 11. Troubleshooting

Features at a Glance

Key components: Durable fiberglass body, self-contained living quarters, onboard water system, electrical systems, appliances, and chassis components.

FeatureDescription
Exterior Length22-28 feet (depending on model)
Sleeping Capacity4-6 persons
Fresh Water Capacity30-40 gallons
Gray Water Capacity25-35 gallons
Black Water Capacity25-35 gallons
LP Gas Capacity20-30 pounds
Refrigerator3-way (AC/DC/LP) 6 cu. ft.
FurnaceForced air 20,000 BTU
Water Heater6-gallon LP/electric
ToiletFlush type with holding tank

Vehicle Specifications

Operating Instructions

Before operating, complete pre-trip inspection and setup procedures.

  1. Leveling: Use leveling jacks or blocks to stabilize vehicle
  2. Power Connection: Connect to shore power (30 amp service)
  3. Water System: Fill fresh water tank; connect city water if available
  4. LP Gas: Open main valve; check for leaks
  5. Systems Check: Verify all systems operational before departure

WARNING! Never operate LP appliances while driving. Ensure vehicle is level when using refrigerator.

Systems Overview

Access control panels via main console. Electrical panel: MAIN BREAKER, converter, fuse panel. Plumbing: Water pump switch, tank monitors. LP system: Main valve, regulator, appliance valves.

Control Panel: MAIN POWER, WATER PUMP, LP GAS, FURNACE, WATER HEATER, REFRIGERATOR, MONITOR PANEL.

Electrical: 120V AC circuit breakers, 12V DC fuses, converter/battery charger. Plumbing: Water pump, pressure regulator, tank valves, water heater bypass. LP: Regulator, appliance valves, leak detector.

Maintenance Schedule

Regular maintenance ensures reliability and extends vehicle life.

  1. Weekly: Check tire pressure, fluid levels, LP system
  2. Monthly: Test smoke/CO detectors, clean roof, inspect seals
  3. Quarterly: Service water heater anode rod, clean refrigerator burner
  4. Annually: Winterize plumbing, service generator, inspect brakes
  5. Every 2 years: Replace LP regulator, service wheel bearings

Tip: Keep maintenance log with dates and services performed.

Appliance Operation

Supports refrigerator, furnace, water heater, stove, oven operation.

  1. Refrigerator: Set to AUTO mode; allow 4-6 hours to cool
  2. Furnace: Set thermostat; ensure LP gas is on
  3. Water Heater: Fill tank before lighting; set temperature
  4. Stove/Oven: Light burners with match or igniter
  5. Generator: Start with proper ventilation; monitor load

WARNING! Ensure proper ventilation when operating LP appliances. Install CO detector and test regularly.

Electrical System

Dual electrical systems: 12V DC for lights and pumps, 120V AC for appliances.

ComponentFunction
ConverterCharges batteries; converts 120V AC to 12V DC
Battery IsolatorSeparates chassis and house batteries
InverterOptional; converts 12V DC to 120V AC
Monitor PanelDisplays battery level, tank levels
GFCI OutletsKitchen and bathroom outlets

CAUTION! Disconnect shore power before working on electrical system.

Plumbing System

Self-contained water system with pump, heater, and holding tanks.

  1. Water Pump: Turn on switch; system pressurizes automatically
  2. Water Heater: Fill before operation; set temperature control
  3. Tank Draining: Open gray and black water valves at dump station
  4. Winterizing: Use RV antifreeze in all water lines

Tip: Use water pressure regulator when connected to city water.

Heating & Cooling

Forced air furnace and optional roof air conditioner.

Furnace Operation: Set thermostat to desired temperature; blower will start; burner ignites automatically. Roof AC: Connect to shore power or generator; set thermostat and fan speed.

Maintenance: Clean furnace burner annually; replace AC filter monthly during use.

Safety Procedures

Carbon Monoxide Detection: Install and test CO detectors. Fire Safety: Keep fire extinguisher accessible. LP Gas Safety: Check for leaks regularly; shut off when not in use. Driving Safety: Secure all items; check tire pressure; maintain safe speed.

Troubleshooting

SymptomPossible CauseCorrective Action
Refrigerator not coolingNot level/LP offLevel vehicle; check LP gas supply; clean burner
No water pressurePump/valvesCheck water pump switch; inspect fuse; check tank level
Furnace not ignitingThermostat/batterySet thermostat higher; check 12V power; clean burner
Electrical outlets deadShore power/breakerCheck shore power connection; reset main breaker
Water heater no hot waterLP/electricCheck LP supply; reset thermal switch; verify 120V power

Emergency: 1-800-COACHMAN; www.coachmanrv.com

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