1987 Gulfstream Sunsport 30 Ford 460 Owners Manual

The 1987 Gulfstream Sunsport 30 is a Class A motorhome powered by a Ford 460 V8 engine, featuring a 30-foot body length, gasoline fuel system, automatic transmission, power steering, hydraulic brakes, and comprehensive onboard systems including water, electrical, propane, and waste management. Below are key sections for safety, specifications, operation, maintenance, and troubleshooting.

1. Features at a Glance 2. Vehicle Specifications 3. Pre-Drive Inspection 4. Engine Operation 5. Driving Instructions 6. Living Systems Operation 7. Routine Maintenance 8. Winterization 9. Storage Guidelines 10. Safety Information 11. Troubleshooting

Features at a Glance

Key components: Ford 460 V8 engine, automatic transmission, power steering, hydraulic brake system, freshwater system, propane system, electrical system, and onboard generator.

Feature	Description
Engine	Ford 460 cubic inch V8 gasoline engine
Transmission	3-speed automatic transmission
Fuel Capacity	55-gallon gasoline tank
Fresh Water	40-gallon freshwater tank
Propane System	Dual 20-pound propane tanks
Electrical	12V DC and 120V AC systems with converter
Generator	Onboard 4kW generator
Brakes	Hydraulic disc/drum brake system
Suspension	Heavy-duty leaf spring suspension
Dimensions	30-foot length, 8-foot width, 10.5-foot height

Vehicle Specifications

Engine: Ford 460 V8, 7.5L gasoline engine
Horsepower: 245 HP @ 4,000 RPM
Torque: 380 lb-ft @ 2,800 RPM
Transmission: C6 3-speed automatic
Fuel System: 4-barrel carburetor
GVWR: 14,050 lbs
Wheelbase: 178 inches
Tires: LT225/75R16
Fuel Economy: 6-8 MPG (highway/city)
Oil Capacity: 6 quarts with filter

Pre-Drive Inspection

Complete this checklist before each trip:

Check engine oil level and condition
Inspect coolant level and radiator
Verify transmission fluid level
Check tire pressure and condition
Test brake operation and fluid level
Inspect all lights and signals
Check propane tank levels and connections
Verify freshwater tank level
Test generator operation
Ensure all storage compartments are secure

WARNING! Never operate vehicle with low fluid levels or visible leaks.

Engine Operation

Starting procedure and normal operation guidelines:

Ensure parking brake is engaged
Turn ignition key to ON position
Wait for glow plug light to extinguish (if equipped)
Turn key to START position until engine starts
Allow engine to warm up for 2-3 minutes
Check all gauges for normal readings
Release parking brake when ready to drive

Normal Operating Temperatures: Coolant: 195-220°F, Oil Pressure: 40-60 PSI

Driving Instructions

Special considerations for motorhome operation:

Allow extra stopping distance due to vehicle weight
Use lower gears when descending steep grades
Be aware of vehicle height when approaching bridges
Make wider turns to accommodate length
Check mirrors frequently for traffic
Reduce speed in crosswinds
Use engine braking on long descents

CAUTION! This vehicle requires more space to maneuver than passenger cars.

Living Systems Operation

Operating onboard amenities and systems:

System	Operation
Fresh Water	Fill tank via exterior port; use water pump switch
Water Heater	Electric or propane operation; allow 20 minutes to heat
Refrigerator	Operates on propane or electricity; level vehicle for best performance
Furnace	Thermostat controlled; ensure propane supply
Generator	Start from control panel; allow to stabilize before loading
Electrical	Shore power or generator; monitor battery condition

Routine Maintenance

Scheduled maintenance intervals:

Every 3,000 miles: Oil and filter change
Every 6,000 miles: Check and adjust brakes
Every 12,000 miles: Transmission service
Every 15,000 miles: Coolant flush
Every 30,000 miles: Spark plugs and wires
Seasonal: Check all fluid levels
Monthly: Test all safety systems
Before storage: Complete winterization

Winterization

Protecting systems during cold weather storage:

Drain freshwater system completely
Blow out water lines with compressed air
Add RV antifreeze to drain traps
Drain water heater and bypass if equipped
Remove and charge batteries
Clean and wax exterior
Cover tires and protect from sunlight
Place moisture absorbers inside

WARNING! Failure to properly winterize can cause costly damage.

Storage Guidelines

Long-term storage recommendations:

Store in covered, dry location if possible
Engage parking brake and chock wheels
Disconnect and remove batteries
Clean interior thoroughly
Defrost and clean refrigerator
Close all vents and windows
Use fuel stabilizer in gasoline tank
Cover vehicle with breathable cover

Safety Information

Critical safety procedures and warnings:

Always use carbon monoxide and smoke detectors
Never operate generator while sleeping
Ensure proper ventilation when using propane appliances
Check for gas leaks regularly
Know location and operation of fire extinguishers
Practice emergency exit procedures
Never exceed GVWR or individual axle ratings
Use wheel chocks when parked on inclines

EMERGENCY: In case of fire, evacuate immediately and call 911.

Troubleshooting

Symptom	Possible Cause	Corrective Action
Engine won't start	Dead battery, fuel issue	Check battery charge; verify fuel supply; inspect spark
Overheating	Low coolant, thermostat	Check coolant level; inspect radiator; test thermostat
Poor fuel economy	Tire pressure, alignment	Check tire pressure; verify wheel alignment; clean air filter
Electrical issues	Battery, converter	Test battery; check converter operation; inspect fuses
Propane odor	Leak in system	Shut off propane immediately; check connections with soap solution
Water pump not working	Power, pressure switch	Check 12V power; test pressure switch; inspect for leaks

Service: Contact authorized Gulfstream service center for major repairs.

Emergency Roadside: 1-800-GULFSTRM