1988 Holiday Rambler Owners Manual

The 1988 Holiday Rambler is a classic recreational vehicle featuring durable construction, comfortable living quarters, and reliable mechanical systems. This comprehensive manual covers operation, maintenance, and troubleshooting for all major systems including electrical, plumbing, heating, appliances, and chassis components. Below are essential sections for safe operation and proper maintenance of your Holiday Rambler.

1. Introduction & Safety 2. Vehicle Specifications 3. Operating Systems 4. Living Area Features 5. Electrical System 6. Plumbing & Water Systems 7. Heating & Cooling 8. Appliances 9. Chassis & Towing 10. Maintenance Schedule 11. Troubleshooting

Introduction & Safety

Welcome to your 1988 Holiday Rambler ownership experience. This vehicle combines luxury accommodations with reliable road performance.

Safety Feature	Description
LP Gas System	Propane fuel for appliances with leak detection
Electrical Safety	120V AC and 12V DC systems with circuit protection
Fire Safety	Smoke and CO detectors standard equipment
Braking System	Hydraulic brakes with emergency brake
Stabilizer Jacks	Four corner stabilization when parked

WARNING! Always perform safety checks before operating. Never operate LP system while vehicle is in motion.

Vehicle Specifications

Length: 28-36 feet (depending on model)
Weight: 8,500-12,000 lbs GVWR
Fuel Type: Gasoline
Engine: V8 gasoline engine
Sleeping Capacity: 4-8 persons
Fresh Water Capacity: 40-60 gallons
Holding Tanks: Gray water 30 gal, Black water 30 gal
LP Gas Capacity: 20-30 gallons
Electrical: 120V/30A service, 12V battery system

Operating Systems

Basic operation procedures for your Holiday Rambler.

Pre-Trip Inspection: Check tires, lights, fluids, and hitch
Starting Procedure: Ensure parking brake set, transmission in park
Leveling: Use stabilizer jacks on solid, level ground
Utility Hookup: Connect to shore power, water, and sewer
Systems Check: Verify all systems operational before travel

CAUTION! Always chock wheels when parked. Never leave appliances running while traveling.

Living Area Features

Your Holiday Rambler includes numerous comfort features.

Feature	Operation
Dinette	Converts to sleeping area
Galley	3-burner stove, oven, refrigerator
Bathroom	Toilet, shower, vanity
Sleeping Areas	Overhead bunk, convertible sofa
Storage	Exterior compartments, interior cabinets

Electrical System

Dual electrical systems provide power for all needs.

Shore Power: Connect to 30A campground service
Converter/Charger: Converts 120V AC to 12V DC, charges batteries
Battery System: Deep cycle batteries for dry camping
Circuit Breakers: Located in main electrical panel
GFCI Protection: Bathroom and galley outlets

Tip: Monitor battery levels when dry camping. Conserve power by limiting 12V device usage.

Plumbing & Water Systems

Complete water management system for comfort and convenience.

Fresh Water System: Fill tank, pressurize with water pump
Water Heater: 6-gallon capacity, electric and LP operation
Toilet System: Uses water from fresh system, empties to black tank
Tank Monitoring: Gauges for fresh, gray, and black tanks
Winterization: Drain all systems, use antifreeze for cold weather

WARNING! Never drink from fresh water tank without proper sanitation. Always use RV-approved toilet paper.

Heating & Cooling

Climate control systems for all weather conditions.

Furnace: Forced air LP heating, thermostat controlled
Air Conditioner: Roof-mounted 13,500 BTU unit
Water Heater: Atwood 6-gallon with electronic ignition
Ventilation: Roof vents with covers for airflow
Windows: Dual pane with screens and privacy shades

Appliances

Standard appliances included with your Holiday Rambler.

Appliance	Specifications
Refrigerator	6 cu ft, 3-way (LP/electric/battery)
Range	3-burner cooktop with oven
Water Heater	6-gallon, LP and electric
Furnace	25,000 BTU forced air
Air Conditioner	13,500 BTU roof unit

Chassis & Towing

Reliable chassis designed for comfortable travel.

Tire Maintenance: Check pressure cold, inspect for wear
Brake System: Hydraulic brakes, inspect pads regularly
Suspension: Leaf spring system, check for sagging
Hitch System: Weight distribution hitch recommended
Mirrors: Extended towing mirrors for visibility

CAUTION! Always check tire pressure before travel. Never exceed GVWR rating.

Maintenance Schedule

Regular maintenance ensures long-term reliability.

Interval	Maintenance Items
Monthly	Check tire pressure, test smoke/CO detectors
Every 3 Months	Inspect brakes, check battery water levels
Every 6 Months	Service furnace, check LP system for leaks
Annually	Flush water systems, inspect roof seals
Every 2 Years	Replace tires, repack wheel bearings

Troubleshooting

Problem	Possible Cause	Solution
No power to appliances	Tripped breaker, dead battery	Check main panel, test battery
Water pump not working	Fuse, pressure switch, air lock	Check fuse, prime system
Furnace won't ignite	LP valve closed, dead battery	Open LP valve, check battery
Refrigerator not cooling	Leveling, ventilation, LP supply	Level vehicle, check vents
Toilet not flushing	Water supply, pedal mechanism	Check water pump, inspect pedal

Emergency Contacts: For service assistance, contact Holiday Rambler customer service at 1-800-245-4778.

Parts & Support: Genuine Holiday Rambler parts available through authorized dealers.