1986 Holiday Rambler Imperial Owners Manual

The 1986 Holiday Rambler Imperial is a luxury recreational vehicle featuring advanced amenities for comfortable travel and camping. This Class A motorhome includes sleeping accommodations, kitchen facilities, bathroom with shower, climate control systems, electrical systems, plumbing systems, and various safety features. Below are key sections covering operation, maintenance, systems overview, and troubleshooting for optimal RV ownership experience.

1. Features at a Glance 2. Vehicle Specifications 3. Systems Overview 4. Operation Instructions 5. Maintenance Schedule 6. Electrical Systems 7. Plumbing Systems 8. Climate Control 9. Safety Features 10. Storage Solutions 11. Troubleshooting

Features at a Glance

Key components: Chassis with Ford V8 engine, living quarters with galley, dinette, bathroom, sleeping areas, and various utility systems.

FeatureDescription
EngineFord 460 V8 gasoline engine
Transmission3-speed automatic
Length31 feet
Sleeping Capacity6 adults
Fresh Water Capacity60 gallons
LP Gas Capacity20 gallons
Refrigerator6 cubic foot gas/electric
Furnace30,000 BTU forced air
Water Heater6 gallon gas/electric
Generator4,000 watt Onan

Vehicle Specifications

Complete technical specifications for the 1986 Holiday Rambler Imperial motorhome.

Systems Overview

Detailed description of all major systems in the motorhome.

  1. Electrical System: 12V DC and 120V AC systems with converter, inverter, and circuit breakers
  2. Plumbing System: Fresh water, gray water, and black water tanks with water pump and city water connection
  3. LP Gas System: Propane tanks supplying furnace, water heater, refrigerator, and stove
  4. Climate Control: Roof air conditioner and furnace with ducted heating
  5. Entertainment: AM/FM cassette stereo with outdoor speakers

WARNING! Always turn off propane at tanks during travel. Ensure all systems are properly maintained.

Operation Instructions

Step-by-step procedures for operating all motorhome systems.

  1. Pre-Travel Checklist: Check tire pressure, fluid levels, secure all items, retract awnings
  2. Starting Procedure: Ensure parking brake set, transmission in neutral, start engine
  3. Leveling: Use leveling blocks or built-in jacks if equipped
  4. Setting Up Camp: Connect shore power, water hookup, deploy stabilizer jacks
  5. System Activation: Turn on propane, light pilot lights, activate electrical systems

CAUTION! Never operate generator while sleeping. Ensure proper ventilation when using propane appliances.

Maintenance Schedule

Regular maintenance requirements to keep your motorhome in optimal condition.

IntervalService Required
Every 3,000 milesOil change, filter replacement, tire inspection
Every 6,000 milesTransmission service, brake inspection, wheel bearing repack
Every 12,000 milesCooling system flush, fuel system service, suspension inspection
SeasonalWater system winterization, roof inspection, sealant check
AnnualLP gas system inspection, electrical system check, generator service

Electrical Systems

Complete guide to the 12V DC and 120V AC electrical systems.

  1. House Batteries: Two 12V deep cycle batteries for interior systems
  2. Converter/Charger: Converts 120V AC to 12V DC and charges batteries
  3. Generator: 4,000 watt Onan provides 120V AC power when not connected to shore power
  4. Circuit Breakers: Located in main electrical panel for AC circuits
  5. Fuses: Protect DC circuits in fuse panel

Tip: Monitor battery levels and run generator periodically to maintain charge.

Plumbing Systems

Operation and maintenance of water and waste systems.

  1. Fresh Water System: 60 gallon tank with 12V water pump and city water connection
  2. Water Heater: 6 gallon capacity, operates on propane or 120V AC
  3. Gray Water Tank: 40 gallon capacity for sink and shower drainage
  4. Black Water Tank: 30 gallon capacity for toilet waste
  5. Winterization: Use RV antifreeze to protect pipes from freezing

WARNING! Always use RV-specific toilet paper. Never put chemicals in fresh water system.

Climate Control

Heating and cooling systems for comfortable travel in all seasons.

Safety Features

Important safety systems and emergency procedures.

  1. LP Gas Detector: Monitors for propane leaks with audible alarm
  2. Smoke Detector: Battery operated smoke detection
  3. Carbon Monoxide Detector: Monitors for dangerous CO levels
  4. Fire Extinguisher: ABC type located near exit door
  5. Emergency Exit: Designated emergency window in sleeping area

CAUTION! Test all safety devices monthly. Replace batteries annually.

Storage Solutions

Maximizing storage space throughout the motorhome.

LocationStorage TypeCapacity
ExteriorPass-through compartmentsMultiple large storage areas
KitchenOverhead cabinetsFood and cooking supplies
BedroomWardrobe and under-bedClothing and personal items
BathroomMedicine cabinetToiletries and supplies
DinetteUnder-seat storageLinens and miscellaneous

Troubleshooting

Common issues and solutions for the 1986 Holiday Rambler Imperial.

SymptomPossible CauseCorrective Action
Engine won't startDead battery, fuel issueCheck battery connections, verify fuel supply
No 12V powerBattery disconnect switch, blown fusesCheck battery disconnect, replace fuses
Water pump not workingEmpty tank, air lockFill fresh water tank, purge air from lines
Furnace not lightingPropane empty, thermocoupleCheck propane level, clean thermocouple
Refrigerator not coolingLeveling, propane supplyEnsure RV is level, check propane

Emergency Contacts: Holiday Rambler Customer Service: 1-800-245-4778

Roadside Assistance: Available through your insurance provider

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