1987 Starcraft Pop Up Camper Owners Manual

The 1987 Starcraft Pop Up Camper is a lightweight, foldable recreational vehicle featuring canvas sidewalls, telescoping roof supports, fold-out beds, built-in galley, storage compartments, and manual lift system. Designed for easy towing and family camping, this camper includes sleeping accommodations for 4-6 people, basic kitchen facilities, and weather-resistant construction. Below are key sections for safety, features, setup, operation, maintenance, and troubleshooting.

1. Features at a Glance 2. Setup Instructions 3. First-Time Operation 4. Specifications 5. Controls and Components 6. Towing and Hitching 7. Camping Operation 9. Care & Maintenance 10. Regulatory Information 11. Troubleshooting

Features at a Glance

Key components: Foldable roof system, canvas sidewalls, telescoping supports, fold-out beds, galley unit, storage compartments, manual crank system.

Feature	Description
Roof System	Manual crank operation with telescoping supports
Canvas Sidewalls	Weather-resistant fabric with zip-up windows
Sleeping Areas	Fold-out beds accommodating 4-6 people
Galley Unit	Basic kitchen with sink and storage
Storage Compartments	Exterior and interior storage spaces
Stabilizer Jacks	Four corner jacks for leveling
Hitch Coupler	Standard ball hitch connection
Brake System	Electric brakes (if equipped)
Lighting	Interior and exterior camping lights
Water System	Fresh water tank and hand pump

Setup Instructions

Position camper on level ground before setup.

Unlock roof: Release all roof latches and safety locks.
Raise roof: Turn crank clockwise to extend roof supports evenly.
Secure roof: Lock roof into position with support braces.
Deploy beds: Pull out fold-down bed platforms and secure.
Set up canvas: Unfold and secure canvas sidewalls with snaps.
Level camper: Use stabilizer jacks at all four corners.

WARNING! Ensure area is clear overhead. Do not force crank mechanism.

First-Time Operation

Complete setup and inspect all components before use.

Inspect canvas: Check for tears or damage in sidewalls.
Test roof mechanism: Ensure smooth operation of crank system.
Check beds: Verify all bed supports lock securely.
Test utilities: Check water system, lighting, and propane (if equipped).
Practice lowering: Familiarize with proper takedown procedure.

CAUTION! Never exceed weight capacity. Always use stabilizer jacks.

Specifications

Sleeping Capacity: 4-6 people
Weight: 1,200-1,800 lbs (depending on model)
Hitch Weight: 150-200 lbs
Roof Height: 6'8" when raised
Bed Sizes: Double beds 54"x78"
Water Capacity: 10-15 gallon fresh water tank
Construction: Aluminum frame with canvas walls
Towing Requirements: Standard 2" ball hitch

Controls and Components

Main controls: Roof crank, bed locks, stabilizer jacks, hitch coupler.

Exterior: Roof latches, crank handle, stabilizer jacks, hitch, storage doors, propane compartment (if equipped).

Interior: Bed supports, canvas snaps, galley latches, lighting controls, water pump. Roof System: Manual crank operation, telescoping supports, roof locks. Beds: Fold-out platforms with support bars and locking mechanisms. Utilities: Basic lighting, water hand pump, optional propane connections.

Towing and Hitching

Proper hitching procedure for safe towing.

Check hitch: Ensure ball size matches coupler (typically 2").
Connect safety chains: Cross chains under coupler.
Test lights: Verify all running, brake, and turn signals work.
Check weight distribution: Ensure proper tongue weight.
Secure breakaway system: Connect safety cable if equipped.

Tip: Always perform pre-tow inspection of tires, brakes, and lights.

Camping Operation

Daily operation and camping procedures.

Setting up camp: Level site, deploy awning (if equipped).
Using galley: Operate hand pump for water, use food preparation areas.
Bed operation: Deploy beds for sleeping, secure all supports.
Weather protection: Ensure canvas is properly secured and sealed.
Storage use: Utilize interior and exterior compartments efficiently.

WARNING! Never use open flames near canvas. Always ventilate when cooking.

Care & Maintenance

Regular maintenance ensures longevity and safety.

Canvas care: Clean with mild soap, dry completely before storage
Roof mechanism: Lubricate crank system annually
Frame inspection: Check for corrosion or damage
Bed mechanisms: Ensure smooth operation of all moving parts
Tire maintenance: Check pressure and tread regularly

CAUTION! Store with canvas completely dry to prevent mildew.

Regulatory Information

Complies with RV industry standards for safety and construction. Manufactured by Starcraft RV division. For support contact Starcraft customer service. Always follow local camping and towing regulations. Maximum speed when towing: 55 mph recommended.

Troubleshooting

Symptom	Possible Cause	Corrective Action
Roof hard to crank	Binding supports/dirty mechanism	Lubricate moving parts; ensure roof is not binding on guides.
Canvas leaks	Seam separation/improper setup	Apply seam sealer; ensure proper tension and sealing.
Beds won't lock	Worn locks/misalignment	Inspect locking mechanism; adjust or replace as needed.
Unstable when set up	Uneven ground/jacks not set	Level site; ensure all stabilizer jacks are properly deployed.
Water pump not working	Air lock/dry tank	Prime pump; ensure water tank is filled; check for leaks.

Storage: Store with roof lowered, canvas clean and dry.

Service: Contact authorized Starcraft service center for major repairs.