1987 Jayci Jay Series Owners Manual

The 1987 Jayci Jay Series is a classic recreational vehicle featuring durable construction, comfortable living quarters, and reliable mechanical systems. This comprehensive manual covers operation, maintenance, and troubleshooting for your Jayci Jay Series RV. Below are essential sections covering features, setup, operation, maintenance, and technical specifications.

1. Features at a Glance 2. Initial Setup 3. Operating Instructions 4. Technical Specifications 5. Controls and Instrument Panel 6. Living Quarters Systems 7. Driving and Towing 8. Maintenance Schedule 9. Storage and Winterization 10. Safety Information 11. Troubleshooting Guide

Features at a Glance

Key components: Durable fiberglass body, comfortable sleeping accommodations, complete kitchen facilities, bathroom with shower, reliable chassis and engine.

FeatureDescription
Sleeping CapacityAccommodates 4-6 adults comfortably
Kitchen Facilities3-burner stove, refrigerator, sink with water pump
BathroomToilet, sink, and shower with hot water
Electrical System12V DC and 110V AC with converter
Water SystemFresh water tank, gray water tank, black water tank
Heating SystemForced air furnace with thermostat
ChassisHeavy-duty truck chassis with reliable suspension
Exterior StorageMultiple exterior compartments for gear
AwningManual or electric awning (depending on model)
EntertainmentAM/FM radio with cassette player

Initial Setup

Prepare your Jayci Jay Series for first use with these essential steps.

  1. Level the RV: Use leveling jacks or blocks to ensure proper operation of appliances.
  2. Connect to power: Plug into 30-amp shore power or verify generator operation.
  3. Water system setup: Fill fresh water tank and prime water pump.
  4. LP gas system: Open propane tanks and check for leaks with soapy water.
  5. Test all systems: Verify operation of lights, appliances, and safety equipment.

WARNING! Always ensure proper ventilation when using LP gas appliances. Never operate generator in enclosed spaces.

Operating Instructions

Proper operation ensures optimal performance and longevity.

  1. Starting procedure: Check oil, fuel, and coolant levels before starting engine.
  2. Driving preparation: Secure all interior items, retract steps and awning.
  3. Appliance operation: Follow specific instructions for refrigerator, stove, and furnace.
  4. Electrical systems: Monitor battery levels and use converter when connected to shore power.
  5. Water systems: Use water pump switch and monitor tank levels.

CAUTION! Always turn off propane at tanks while driving. Ensure refrigerator is secured during travel.

Technical Specifications

Controls and Instrument Panel

Familiarize yourself with the control systems for safe and efficient operation.

Driver's Area: Standard automotive controls plus RV-specific gauges for water, LP gas, and battery levels.

Living Area Controls: Thermostat for furnace, water pump switch, lighting controls, appliance controls.

Exterior Controls: Power cord connection, water fill, sewer connections, LP gas tank access.

Safety Systems: LP gas leak detector, smoke alarm, carbon monoxide detector, fire extinguisher.

Living Quarters Systems

Detailed operation of interior systems and appliances.

  1. Kitchen: Refrigerator operation (LP gas/electric), stove safety, microwave use.
  2. Bathroom: Toilet operation and maintenance, shower and sink usage.
  3. Sleeping areas: Bed operation, storage access, ventilation.
  4. Climate control: Furnace operation, roof vent usage, window operation.
  5. Entertainment: Radio operation, antenna positioning.

Tip: Allow refrigerator to cool for 4-6 hours before adding food when starting from warm.

Driving and Towing

Safe operation on the road and proper towing procedures.

  1. Pre-trip inspection: Check tires, lights, brakes, and fluid levels.
  2. Driving techniques: Allow extra stopping distance, wider turns, and increased following distance.
  3. Towing: Follow manufacturer's guidelines for towed vehicles (if applicable).
  4. Backing up: Use spotters and take extra care due to limited visibility.
  5. Parking: Level vehicle and set parking brake securely.

WARNING! Always check overhead clearance before driving under bridges or through tunnels.

Maintenance Schedule

Regular maintenance ensures reliability and extends vehicle life.

IntervalMaintenance Items
Every 3,000 milesOil change, filter replacement, tire pressure check
Every 6,000 milesBrake inspection, wheel bearing repack, suspension check
Every 12,000 milesTransmission service, coolant flush, belt inspection
SeasonalWater system winterization/de-winterization
AnnualLP gas system inspection, roof sealant inspection
As neededBattery maintenance, appliance servicing

Storage and Winterization

Proper storage procedures protect your investment during periods of non-use.

  1. Cleaning: Thoroughly clean interior and exterior before storage.
  2. Water system: Complete winterization with RV antifreeze.
  3. Batteries: Disconnect and store fully charged.
  4. Tires: Inflate to proper pressure and consider using tire covers.
  5. LP gas: Turn off at tanks and ensure valves are closed.
  6. Cover: Use breathable RV cover if storing outdoors.

CAUTION! Failure to properly winterize can cause thousands of dollars in water system damage.

Safety Information

Essential safety practices for all occupants.

Troubleshooting Guide

SymptomPossible CauseCorrective Action
Refrigerator not coolingLP gas off, leveling issue, dirty burnerCheck gas supply, level RV, clean burner assembly
No electrical powerBattery dead, converter failure, breaker trippedCheck battery connections, reset breakers, test converter
Water pump not workingFuse blown, air in system, pump failureCheck fuse, prime system, test pump operation
Furnace not ignitingThermostat setting, dead battery, blocked ventCheck thermostat, battery power, clear vents
Engine overheatingLow coolant, thermostat stuck, radiator cloggedCheck coolant level, test thermostat, flush radiator
LP gas odorLeak in system, appliance malfunctionEvacuate immediately, turn off gas, call professional

Emergency Contacts: For roadside assistance, contact your insurance provider. For technical support, consult authorized Jayci service centers.

Service Network: Contact Jayci customer service at 1-800-JAYCI-RV for authorized service locations.

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