1988 Winnebago Manual

The 1988 Winnebago is a classic recreational vehicle featuring durable construction, comfortable living quarters, and reliable performance. This manual covers the essential systems including chassis, engine, electrical, plumbing, appliances, and maintenance procedures for optimal operation and longevity of your motorhome.

1. Vehicle Specifications 2. Operating Instructions 3. Maintenance Schedule 4. Electrical System 5. Plumbing System 6. Appliance Operation 7. Troubleshooting 8. Safety Information 9. Storage & Winterization 10. Warranty Information

Vehicle Specifications

Key components: Chassis, engine, dimensions, weight capacities, and construction details.

Specification	Details
Chassis	Ford E-350 or Chevrolet P30
Engine	5.8L V8 gasoline engine
Transmission	3-speed automatic
Length	22-27 feet depending on model
GVWR	10,500 lbs
Fuel Capacity	40 gallons
Water Capacity	40 gallons fresh, 30 gallons gray, 30 gallons black
LP Gas Capacity	20 gallons
Electrical System	12V DC and 120V AC
Construction	Aluminum frame with fiberglass exterior

Operating Instructions

Basic operation procedures for driving and living systems.

Pre-trip inspection: Check tires, fluids, lights, and systems before travel.
Starting procedure: Ensure parking brake set, transmission in park, then start engine.
Leveling: Use leveling jacks on uneven terrain for appliance operation.
System activation: Turn on water pump, propane, and electrical systems as needed.

WARNING! Always check overhead clearance and ensure all items are secured before driving.

Maintenance Schedule

Regular maintenance ensures reliable operation and prevents costly repairs.

Every 3,000 miles: Oil and filter change
Every 6,000 miles: Tire rotation and inspection
Every 12,000 miles: Transmission fluid service
Every 15,000 miles: Coolant flush and replacement
Every 30,000 miles: Spark plugs and wires replacement
Seasonal: Roof sealant inspection and resealing as needed
Annual: Brake inspection, bearing repack, LP gas system check

Electrical System

Dual electrical systems: 12V DC for vehicle operation and 120V AC for household appliances.

Battery maintenance: Check water levels monthly, clean terminals quarterly.
Converter operation: Converts 120V AC to 12V DC when plugged into shore power.
Inverter option: Some models include inverter for AC power while driving.
Fuse panel location: Main panel located near driver seat, secondary in living area.

CAUTION! Disconnect shore power before working on electrical systems.

Plumbing System

Complete water system with pump, heater, and waste management.

Component	Operation
Water Pump	12V demand pump - turns on automatically when faucet opened
Water Heater	6-gallon capacity, LP gas or electric operation
Toilet	Manual flush with foot pedal, uses fresh water
Shower	Pressure-balanced valve for consistent temperature
Tank Sensors	Monitor fresh, gray, and black water levels

Appliance Operation

Standard appliances include refrigerator, stove, oven, and furnace.

Refrigerator: Operates on LP gas, 120V AC, or 12V DC (while driving).
Stove/Oven: LP gas operation with electronic ignition.
Furnace: Forced air LP gas furnace with thermostat control.
Water Heater: 6-gallon capacity with dual energy sources.
Generator: Optional Onan 4kW generator for off-grid power.

WARNING! Ensure proper ventilation when operating LP gas appliances.

Troubleshooting

Problem	Possible Cause	Solution
Engine won't start	Dead battery, fuel issue	Check battery connections, fuel level, and fuses
No power to appliances	Tripped breaker, dead battery	Check main breaker panel and house batteries
Water pump not working	Empty tank, blown fuse	Check water level and 12V fuse panel
Refrigerator not cooling	Leveling issue, LP gas off	Ensure vehicle is level and LP gas valve is open
Furnace not igniting	Thermostat setting, dead battery	Check thermostat and 12V power to furnace

Safety Information

Critical safety procedures for safe RV operation.

Always use carbon monoxide and LP gas detectors
Never operate generator while sleeping
Ensure proper tire inflation before travel
Use wheel chocks when parked on inclines
Test smoke alarms monthly
Keep fire extinguisher accessible

EMERGENCY! In case of LP gas smell, extinguish all flames, ventilate, and shut off gas supply.

Storage & Winterization

Proper storage procedures to protect your investment.

Winterization: Drain all water systems and add antifreeze to traps.
Long-term storage: Remove batteries, cover tires, and use RV cover.
LP gas system: Turn off at tanks and empty lines if storing more than 30 days.
Interior preparation: Clean thoroughly, remove food, and use moisture absorbers.

Warranty Information

Original warranty coverage and service information.

Basic warranty: 12 months/15,000 miles on chassis and coach. Structural warranty: 36 months. For service, contact authorized Winnebago dealers. Keep maintenance records for warranty claims. For parts and service, visit www.winnebagoind.com or contact 1-641-585-3535.