1987 Bounder RV Manual

The 1987 Bounder RV is a Class A motorhome featuring a durable chassis, spacious interior layout, reliable engine options, comprehensive electrical and plumbing systems, and robust construction for comfortable recreational travel. Below are key sections covering specifications, operation, maintenance, systems overview, and troubleshooting for optimal performance and longevity.

1. Features at a Glance 2. Installation & Setup 3. First-Time Operation 4. Specifications 5. Controls and Instrument Panel 6. Connecting Utilities 7. Driving and Operation 9. Care & Maintenance 10. Regulatory Information 11. Troubleshooting

Features at a Glance

Key components: Ford or Chevy chassis, gasoline engine, generator system, freshwater tank, holding tanks, electrical panel, HVAC system, appliances.

Feature	Description
Chassis	Ford E-350 or Chevy P30 with dual rear wheels
Engine	7.5L Ford 460 V8 or 7.4L Chevy 454 V8 gasoline
Generator	Onan 4kW or 6.5kW LP/gasoline powered
Freshwater Capacity	40-60 gallons
Gray/Black Water Tanks	30-40 gallons each
LP Gas System	20-30 gallon tank for furnace, water heater, refrigerator
Electrical System	12V DC and 120V AC with converter/charger
HVAC	Dash A/C and roof A/C, furnace
Appliances	3-way refrigerator, range, oven, water heater
Sleeping Capacity	4-6 persons depending on floorplan

Installation & Setup

Proper setup ensures safe operation and system functionality.

Leveling: Use leveling jacks or blocks to ensure RV is level before occupying.
Utility Connections: Connect to shore power (30 amp), freshwater hose, and sewer hose.
LP Gas System: Open LP tank valve; check for leaks with soap solution.
Generator: Check oil level and fuel supply before operation.

WARNING! Always chock wheels and set parking brake when parked. Ensure LP system is leak-free before use.

First-Time Operation

Follow these steps for initial use and familiarization.

Pre-Drive Inspection: Check tire pressure, fluid levels, lights, and brakes.
Systems Check: Test electrical, plumbing, and LP systems while connected to utilities.
Generator Operation: Start generator with no loads; gradually add appliances.
Appliance Operation: Light pilot lights for furnace, water heater, and refrigerator if LP mode.

CAUTION! Never operate generator in enclosed spaces. Ensure proper ventilation for LP appliances.

Specifications

Length: 26-33 feet depending on model
GVWR: 12,000-14,000 lbs
Engine: 7.5L Ford 460 V8 or 7.4L Chevy 454 V8
Transmission: 3-speed automatic
Fuel Capacity: 55-75 gallons gasoline
LP Capacity: 20-30 gallons
Fresh Water: 40-60 gallons
Black/Gray Water: 30-40 gallons each
Electrical: 12V DC/120V AC, 30 amp service
Generator: Onan 4.0kW or 6.5kW

Controls and Instrument Panel

Dash controls: Ignition, gauges (speedo, fuel, temp, oil, volts), headlights, wipers, cruise control.

Interior Controls: Electrical panel with breakers and fuses, thermostat, water pump switch, LP gas detector, tank monitors, generator start/stop.

Systems Monitoring: Freshwater level, black/gray tank levels, LP gas level, battery voltage. Appliance Controls: Refrigerator mode selector, water heater switch, furnace thermostat, range/oven controls.

Connecting Utilities

Shore power: 30 amp RV receptacle. Water: Pressure regulator recommended. Sewer: Proper hose connection with support.

Turn off main breaker before connecting shore power.
Use drinking water hose only for freshwater connection.
Connect sewer hose securely; use gloves and sanitizer.
Test all systems after utility connections.

Tip: Always use surge protector for electrical connection. Drain tanks when 2/3 full.

Driving and Operation

Driving considerations for large vehicle handling.

Pre-Trip: Check all fluids, tires, lights, and hitch (if towing).
Starting: Allow engine to warm up; check all gauges.
Driving: Allow extra stopping distance; be aware of height clearance.
Backing: Use spotter; check all mirrors and cameras if equipped.
Parking: Level site; chock wheels; set parking brake.

WARNING! Be aware of height restrictions and swing wide on turns. Check tire pressure cold.

Care & Maintenance

Regular maintenance ensures reliability and extends vehicle life.

Engine: Regular oil changes (3,000 miles), filter replacements, coolant checks. Chassis: Lubricate fittings, check brakes, tire rotation. Systems: Winterize plumbing, clean tanks, test safety devices. Exterior: Wash regularly, inspect seals, wax annually.

CAUTION! Always disconnect power before electrical work. Use RV-specific antifreeze for winterizing.

Regulatory Information

FMVSS compliant: Meets Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standards. EPA emissions standards applicable. California Air Resources Board certification. For support, contact Fleetwood Enterprises or authorized dealers. VIN located on dashboard visible through windshield.

Troubleshooting

Symptom	Possible Cause	Corrective Action
Engine won't start	Battery, fuel, ignition	Check battery connections, fuel level, spark plugs.
No power to outlets	Breakers, shore power	Reset breakers; check shore power connection.
Water pump not working	Power, fuse, pressure	Check 12V power, fuse, and pump switch.
Refrigerator not cooling	Mode, leveling, LP	Ensure proper mode selected; check level; verify LP supply.
Generator won't start	Fuel, oil, battery	Check fuel level, oil level, and battery charge.

Reset: Main electrical panel breakers and converter reset button if equipped.

Service: Contact authorized Fleetwood service centers for major repairs.