1988 Collins 25085 5th Wheel Owners Manual

The 1988 Collins 25085 is a fifth wheel RV trailer featuring a durable steel frame construction, fiberglass exterior, spacious interior living area, fully equipped kitchen, bathroom with shower, sleeping accommodations, and comprehensive utility systems including electrical, plumbing, and propane. Below are key sections for safety, features, setup, operation, maintenance, and troubleshooting.

1. Features at a Glance 2. Safety Information 3. Setup and Hitching 4. Specifications 5. Interior Features 6. Utility Systems 7. Operation Guidelines 8. Maintenance Schedule 9. Storage and Winterization 10. Regulatory Information 11. Troubleshooting

Features at a Glance

Key components: Steel frame construction, fiberglass exterior, fifth wheel hitch system, slide-out sections, full kitchen, bathroom with shower, sleeping areas, utility systems.

Feature	Description
Fifth Wheel Hitch	Standard 16-inch kingpin for secure towing
Construction	Steel frame with fiberglass exterior walls
Slide-Outs	Living room slide-out for expanded space
Kitchen	3-burner stove, oven, refrigerator, sink
Bathroom	Toilet, sink, shower with curtain
Sleeping Capacity	Sleeps 6 with convertible dinette
Electrical System	12V DC and 120V AC systems
Water System	Fresh water tank, gray/black water holding tanks
Propane System	Two 20-lb propane tanks
Heating	Forced air furnace with thermostat

Safety Information

Critical safety guidelines for operating your Collins 25085 fifth wheel.

Always perform pre-trip inspection of tires, brakes, and hitch connection.
Ensure proper weight distribution and load capacity limits.
Test smoke and carbon monoxide detectors monthly.
Never operate propane appliances while in motion.
Keep fire extinguisher accessible and charged.

WARNING! Exceeding weight limits can cause dangerous handling and structural damage. Always verify hitch connection before towing.

Setup and Hitching

Proper procedures for hitching and setting up your fifth wheel.

Position tow vehicle: Align hitch directly under kingpin.
Lower landing gear: Use crank to adjust height until kingpin engages.
Secure hitch: Lock jaws around kingpin and verify secure connection.
Connect utilities: Plug in breakaway switch and electrical connector.
Level unit: Use leveling blocks under wheels as needed.
Extend slide-outs: Only when unit is level and stable.

CAUTION! Never attempt to hitch/unhitch on uneven ground. Always chock wheels before disconnecting from tow vehicle.

Specifications

Model: Collins 25085 Fifth Wheel
Year: 1988
Length: 25 feet
Dry Weight: 4,800 lbs
GVWR: 7,000 lbs
Hitch Weight: 1,200 lbs
Fresh Water Capacity: 40 gallons
Gray Water Capacity: 30 gallons
Black Water Capacity: 30 gallons
Propane Capacity: 40 lbs (two 20-lb tanks)
Electrical: 12V DC / 120V AC with 30-amp service

Interior Features

Comprehensive guide to interior components and operation.

Kitchen: 3-burner range with oven, 6 cu.ft. refrigerator (electric/propane), double sink with water pump, ample counter and storage space.

Living Area: Convertible sofa, dinette that converts to bed, overhead cabinets, entertainment center.

Bathroom: Marine toilet, corner sink, shower with curtain, medicine cabinet.

Sleeping: Front bedroom with queen bed, overhead bunk, convertible dinette and sofa.

Utility Systems

Operation of electrical, plumbing, and propane systems.

Electrical: Main breaker panel with 30-amp service; 12V system for lights and water pump.
Water: Fresh water tank with electric pump; water heater (6-gallon capacity).
Plumbing: PEX piping; winterization valves for cold weather protection.
Propane: Two-tank system with automatic changeover; regulator pressure: 11" water column.
HVAC: Forced air furnace (25,000 BTU); roof vent fans.

Tip: Always turn off propane at tanks during travel and when not in use.

Operation Guidelines

Proper operation procedures for all systems.

Water System: Fill fresh water tank; turn on water pump; open faucets to purge air.
Electrical: Connect to shore power; switch main breaker ON; monitor battery charge.
Propane: Open tank valves; light appliances following manufacturer instructions.
Slide-Outs: Ensure unit is level; clear obstructions; operate switch to extend/retract.
Holding Tanks: Monitor levels; dump at approved facilities only.

WARNING! Never leave slide-outs extended during travel. Always retract before moving unit.

Maintenance Schedule

Regular maintenance tasks to keep your fifth wheel in optimal condition.

Interval	Maintenance Task
Monthly	Test smoke/CO detectors; check tire pressure; inspect seals
Every 3 Months	Lubricate slide-out mechanisms; check battery water levels
Every 6 Months	Inspect brakes; service wheel bearings; check hitch components
Annually	Roof inspection and sealant; furnace service; water system flush
As Needed	Replace water filter; clean holding tanks; touch-up exterior

Storage and Winterization

Proper procedures for storing your fifth wheel, especially in cold climates.

Winterize plumbing: Drain all water lines; add RV antifreeze to traps and tanks.
Battery maintenance: Disconnect and store batteries in cool, dry location.
Exterior preparation: Clean and wax; cover tires; use breathable RV cover.
Interior preparation: Remove all food; clean thoroughly; use moisture absorbers.
Propane system: Turn off at tanks; ensure all appliance valves are closed.

CAUTION! Failure to properly winterize can cause catastrophic damage to plumbing systems from freezing.

Regulatory Information

Compliance and certification information for your Collins fifth wheel.

This recreational vehicle complies with ANSI A119.2 standards for plumbing, electrical, and LP gas systems. Certified by RVIA (Recreation Vehicle Industry Association). All electrical components UL listed. Propane system certified by AGA. For technical support or replacement parts, contact Collins RV Customer Service at 1-800-555-2837 or visit www.collinsrv.com.

Troubleshooting

Symptom	Possible Cause	Corrective Action
Water pump runs continuously	Leak in system or stuck check valve	Check for leaks; tap pump to free valve; replace if needed
No 12V power	Battery dead or main fuse blown	Check battery connections; test voltage; replace fuse
Furnace won't ignite	Propane empty or thermocouple issue	Check propane supply; clean thermocouple; reset furnace
Slide-out won't operate	Power issue or obstruction	Check battery; clear track; reset motor
Refrigerator not cooling	Leveling or propane issue	Ensure unit is level; check propane supply; clean burner

Emergency: In case of gas leak, evacuate immediately and call for service.

Service: 1-800-555-2837; www.collinsrv.com