1988 Winnebago Chieftain Manual

The 1988 Winnebago Chieftain is a Class A motorhome featuring a durable fiberglass body, spacious interior with sleeping capacity for 6-8 people, fully equipped kitchen, bathroom with shower, ample storage, and reliable chassis. Below are key sections for operation, maintenance, specifications, and troubleshooting of this classic RV model.

1. Vehicle Overview 2. Operating Instructions 3. Systems Operation 4. Specifications 5. Controls and Instrument Panel 6. Electrical Systems 7. Plumbing Systems 8. Heating and Cooling 9. Maintenance Schedule 10. Safety Information 11. Troubleshooting

Vehicle Overview

The Winnebago Chieftain features a durable construction with fiberglass exterior, aluminum frame, and comfortable interior amenities designed for extended travel.

Component	Description
Exterior Length	27-33 feet depending on model
Sleeping Capacity	6-8 persons
Fresh Water Capacity	40-60 gallons
Gray Water Capacity	30-40 gallons
Black Water Capacity	30-40 gallons
Fuel Capacity	55-75 gallons
LP Gas Capacity	20-30 gallons
Generator	4kW Onan standard
Chassis	Chevrolet P30 or Ford E-350
Engine	454 CID V8 gasoline

Operating Instructions

Proper operation ensures safety and longevity of your motorhome.

Pre-trip inspection: Check tires, fluids, lights, and systems before departure.
Starting procedure: Ensure parking brake set, transmission in neutral, start engine.
Driving considerations: Allow for increased stopping distance and wider turns.
Leveling: Use built-in leveling jacks when parked for extended periods.

WARNING! Always perform complete safety check before operating vehicle. Be aware of height clearance.

Systems Operation

Understanding and properly operating all systems is essential for comfortable travel.

Electrical: Monitor house battery levels; use generator when shore power unavailable.
Plumbing: Fill fresh water tank; use water pump when not connected to city water.
HVAC: Operate furnace and roof air conditioner as needed for climate control.
Appliances: Refrigerator operates on LP gas, 110V, or 12V; water heater uses LP gas.

CAUTION! Ensure proper ventilation when using LP gas appliances.

Specifications

Exterior Dimensions: 27-33 feet length, 8 feet width, 10-11 feet height
Interior Height: 6'4" - 6'8"
Gross Vehicle Weight: 12,000-14,500 lbs
Engine: 7.4L (454 CID) V8 gasoline
Transmission: 3-speed automatic
Fuel Type: Regular unleaded gasoline
Brakes: Power assisted front disc/rear drum
Tires: LT225/75R16 load range E
Electrical: 12V DC and 110V AC systems
Construction: Fiberglass exterior, aluminum frame, laminated walls

Controls and Instrument Panel

Dashboard includes standard automotive gauges plus RV-specific monitoring systems.

Driver Controls: Standard automotive controls plus cruise control, dash air conditioning, radio.

RV Systems Panel: Monitor panel for LP gas, fresh water, black water, gray water, battery levels. Control switches for water pump, generator, interior lights, awning, slide-outs (if equipped).

Electrical Systems

Dual electrical systems provide power for all needs.

Turn off unnecessary circuits before connecting to shore power.
Monitor battery levels; recharge via generator, engine alternator, or shore power.
Use power converter to change 110V AC to 12V DC for interior systems.
Select input via electrical panel (Shore, Generator, Battery).

Tip: Conserve battery power when dry camping by limiting use of high-draw appliances.

Plumbing Systems

Complete water system with pressurized supply and waste management.

Fill fresh water tank: Connect hose to city water inlet or use gravity fill.
Water pump: Turn on pump switch when not connected to city water.
Water heater: Allow 20-30 minutes for LP gas heating; ensure tank full.
Drain systems: Empty black and gray water tanks at designated dump stations.
Winterizing: Use RV antifreeze in plumbing system when storing in freezing temperatures.

WARNING! Never drink from water system without proper sanitization. Always use gloves when handling waste connections.

Heating and Cooling

Comfort systems for all weather conditions.

Furnace: LP gas forced air system with thermostat control. Roof Air Conditioner: 110V AC unit with remote thermostat. Dash Air: Standard automotive system for cab area. Water Heater: 6-gallon LP gas tank with electric ignition.

Maintenance Schedule

Regular maintenance ensures reliability and prevents costly repairs.

Every Trip: Check tire pressure, fluid levels, lights, LP gas levels. Monthly: Test safety systems, clean roof and exterior, inspect seals. Annual: Engine tune-up, brake inspection, bearing repack, system winterization.

CAUTION! Follow all manufacturer maintenance intervals. Keep records of all service.

Safety Information

FCC Part 15: Class B digital device; complies with interference limits. All safety systems meet RVIA standards. Carbon monoxide and smoke detectors standard equipment. Fire extinguisher located near entry door. For support, contact Winnebago Industries Customer Service or visit www.winnebagoind.com.

Troubleshooting

Symptom	Possible Cause	Corrective Action
Engine won't start	Battery/ignition	Check battery connections; ensure transmission in park; verify fuel supply.
No electrical power	Battery/main breaker	Check house battery connections; reset main breaker; check converter operation.
Water pump not working	Power/air lock	Ensure pump switch on; check fuse; purge air from lines.
Refrigerator not cooling	Level/power source	Ensure RV level; check LP gas supply; verify 12V/110V operation.
Furnace not igniting	LP gas/thermostat	Check LP gas supply; verify thermostat setting; listen for ignition spark.

Emergency: Roadside assistance 1-800-537-1885

Service: Contact authorized Winnebago service center for major repairs