Roadtrek E-Trek 2015 Owner's Manual

Owner's Manual
2016 E-trek
Roadtrek, Inc.
PDF generated at: Thu, 10 Dec 2015 13:55:05 EST
Contents
Articles
Introduction to your E-Trek
1
Copyright
2
Do's and Don'ts
3
Before You Head Out
7
Coming Home
8
Interior Living Space
10
Sleeping Facilities
20
Bathroom Facilities
25
Appliances
29
Outside your Roadtrek
33
Utilities
43
Heating and Cooling
48
Electrical System
51
Monitor Panel
59
Distribution Panel
66
Alarms and Warnings
68
Maintenance
70
Spare Tire Storage
74
Obtaining Service
78
Specifications
79
Warranty
80
Registration
84
Regulatory Notices
86
FAQ:Electrical System
87
HOWTO: Monitor Panel
89
HOWTO: Setting Up Your Campsite
94
HOWTO: Shore Power
98
HOWTO: Potable Water Use
102
HOWTO: Waste Water Dumping
106
HOWTO: Cable and TV Reception
113
HOWTO: Water System Winterizing
118
HOWTO: De-Winterizing
126
Introduction to your E-Trek
1
Introduction to your E-Trek
Congratulations on the purchase of your Roadtrek and welcome to the Roadtreking family. The information included in this
manual is meant to help and guide you through the use of your vehicle so that you know how to properly use the many
functions your Roadtrek has to offer.
Please keep this manual in your vehicle as a reference for when you are travelling. If you have any questions or comments on
information found in this document please contact us at [email protected] [1] or 1-888-ROADTREK.
References
[1] mailto:manuals@roadtrek. com
© 2015 by Roadtrek, Inc.
Copyright
2
Copyright
This manual is released under a Creative Commons Attribution-NonCommercial-NoDerivatives 4.0
International License [1].
In summary, you may:
• Copy any portion of this manual in any form for personal use;
• Distribute this manual complete with all of its original unmodified content;
• Modify this manual for your own personal, non-commercial use.
You may not:
• Use this manual for any commercial use whatsoever;
• Modify this manual except as provided for in the full license and then distribute the resulting work;
• Charge for this manual other than reasonable media and shipping costs.
All images used in this manual remain the property of Roadtrek, Inc. They are for illustrative purposes only and may or may
not be representative of the upfits in your Roadtrek.
Contact Roadtrek, Inc. for alternate licensing arrangements if you want to use or distribute this manual commercially.
References
[1] http:/ / creativecommons. org/ licenses/ by-nc-nd/ 4. 0/
© 2015 by Roadtrek, Inc.
Do's and Don'ts
3
Do's and Don'ts
Symbol Legend
For your information. May be useful information to know.
Warning. Not following this can lead to bad results.
Caution. You really should follow this to avoid bad results.
Don't do it. Doing this can result in injury, severe damage, or death.
Information, cautions, and warnings
This table highlights some of the do’s and don’ts of your Roadtrek. This list is by no means complete. Please refer to the
individual sections in the manual for more details.
Level
Item
Comment
SEAT BELTS
Use only forward facing seats equipped with factory installed seat belts while the vehicle is in
motion. All passengers must be seated in these seats only, with the seat belts fastened while the
vehicle is in motion.
TV
Turn the TV off and stow it while the vehicle is in motion.
TV
The flat screen TV should not be stored inside the Roadtrek in cold temperatures. Remove it to
reduce the chance of damage from the cold. Check the Owner's Manual for the TV for storage and
operating temperatures.
TV
To remove the TV, remove the four mounting bolts on the back of the TV mounting bracket and
remove the RCA cables, power supply cable and antenna cable.
© 2015 by Roadtrek, Inc.
Do's and Don'ts
4
PROPANE
Do not store propane tanks inside your vehicle. Propane tanks are equipped with safety devices
which relieve excessive pressure by discharging gas to the atmosphere.
PROPANE
Do not refuel the propane tank to more than 80% of its capacity.
PROPANE
The propane tank valve must be closed and ALL PILOT LIGHTS, APPLIANCES, AND THEIR IGNITERS,
MUST BE TURNED OFF during refueling of the motor fuel tank and/or the propane fuel tank. Only
qualified personnel should refuel your propane tank.
PROPANE
Purchase propane from a reputable propane facility. Contaminated propane is a common cause of
system failure and is not covered under any warranty.
PROPANE
The BBQ quick disconnect is regulated to 15 P.S.I. Please ensure that all devices connected to this
are either rated for “high pressure” or have their own regulator. Many grills sold in the United
States are "low pressure" (1/2 P.S.I.) and will require an additional regulator to step the pressure
down to a useable level. If hooked directly to the BBQ quick disconnect they will be a severe fire
hazard.
FLAMMABLE
LIQUIDS AND
GASSES
Do not store gasoline or other flammable liquids inside your vehicle.
HEATING
Never use cooking appliances or unvented propane heaters for space heating purposes. They
need fresh air for safe operation.
HEATING
The heating furnace provides its own outside combustion air and exhausts to the outside.
HEATING
Portable fuel burning equipment, including wood, charcoal, and liquid fuel grills and stoves,
should not be used inside your vehicle. Use of this type of equipment inside your vehicle may
cause a fire or asphyxiation.
PROPANE LEAK
DETECTOR
Do not block the air circulation in the area where the Propane Leak Detector is located.
PROPANE LEAK
DETECTOR
Battery disconnect switch must be in the “ON” position for the propane detector to function.
© 2015 by Roadtrek, Inc.
Do's and Don'ts
5
CARBON MONOXIDE Do not block the air circulation in the area where the Carbon Monoxide Leak Detector is located
LEAK DETECTOR
CARBON MONOXIDE Battery disconnect switch must be in the “ON” position for the Carbon Monoxide Leak Detector to
LEAK DETECTOR
function.
110 VOLT
ELECTRICAL
SERVICING
Prior to servicing the 110 volt Galley GFCI & Audio/Video cabinet interior receptacles, unplug the
output lead from the power inverter.
EXTERIOR ACCESS
DOORS
Ensure the shore power cord and city water supply lines are disconnected and in their stored
positions before the vehicle is put in motion.
AWNINGS
Close the sliding side door prior to opening or closing the awning.
CLOVERLEAF
DINING TABLE
The cloverleaf dining table is heavy. Use proper lifting techniques.
EXTRA COUNTER
SPACE
Make sure the stove is off and has cooled prior to lowering the stove cover.
AUXILIARY BATTERY Battery acid can burn your skin and damage clothing. Protective eye wear and gloves should be
worn while handling batteries. Effective June 2010 all Roadtrek installed batteries are
sealed AGM batteries that do no require the addition of water.
REPLACING THE
Disconnect the inverter/charger prior to disconnecting the auxiliary battery. Always replace the
AUXILIARY BATTERY batteries with AGM batteries.
GENERATOR
Never submerge the generator. Use a spotter when launching a boat or crossing streams.
GENERATOR
When using the generator as the main power source to run the appliances, refer to the generator
owner’s manual for proper use and maintenance.
GENERATOR
The generator cannot run all the appliances at the same time.
WASTE WATER
STORAGE AND
DUMPING SYSTEM
Close both the black and gray water gate valves before using the waste water system.
© 2015 by Roadtrek, Inc.
Do's and Don'ts
6
FREEZING
Under moderate subfreezing conditions, antifreeze is required in the exterior fresh water tank,
black and gray waste water tanks. Use RV antifreeze in accordance with the manufacturer's
instructions.
ELECTRICAL
SERVICING
This unit has 12 volt, 110 volt and potentially a solar system that can generate as much as 60
volts. These systems need to be disconnected before working on them.
BATTERY
Never jump the under-hood battery. Use the jump points provided on the engine. See Owner's
manual for proper jumping instructions. The engine battery is located under the driver's
floorboards. The underhood battery is the coach battery. You may cause severe damage to the
coach, batteries, and on-board electronics if you jump start the coach battery.
LUG NUTS
Sprinters with the optional alloy wheels have a set of lug nuts in the toolbox in the passenger
footwell. These lug nuts must be used when mouting the steel-rim spare.
© 2015 by Roadtrek, Inc.
Before You Head Out
7
Before You Head Out
Your new Roadtrek is ready to go with just a little bit of preparation.
To prepare for your first trip, you should:
• Read this manual.
• Contact your dealer with any questions.
• Plan your trip.
Then use this quick checklist.
• The day before your trip:
• charge your batteries by plugging in overnight
• cool your refrigerator by turning it on
• chill any beverages in your home refrigerator
• fill your fresh water tank with clean tap water
• The day of the trip:
• Load the refrigerator with cold food (from your home refrigerator)
© 2015 by Roadtrek, Inc.
Coming Home
8
Coming Home
When you come home, there are a few maintenance tasks you should do to get your Roadtrek ready to go for next time.
Refer to other sections in this manual for the procedures listed here.
• On your way home, dump the gray and black tanks at a convenient facility. See the HOWTO: Waste Water Dumping section
for a concise description of the procedure to do this. Some RV parks and gas stations will let you dump for a fee, some city
wastewater plants will let you dump for free, but there is no real pattern, so local knowledge is vital in locating dump
stations. The website http:/ / www. sanidumps. com is a good resource. The maps for each state and province are
especially helpful: http:/ / www. sanidumps. com/ maps/ help. php
• At home, flush the water tank and fill it with fresh chlorinated water if you will be using it in the next few days. Otherwise,
drain the tank. Don't let water you are planning to use sit in your tanks for more than a week or so, and don't let ANY water
sit in your tanks for more than two weeks, whether you plan on using it or not. Over time, the chlorine goes away, and the
microbes come out to play.
To flush the tank, fill it using the gravity fill in the passenger's doorframe, and open the fresh water tank drain under the rear
of the passenger doorstep.
Gravity fill in
passenger doorframe
Drain for fresh water tank, under the
passenger door step
© 2015 by Roadtrek, Inc.
Coming Home
9
• Plug in overnight to fully charge batteries.
• Turn off and clean out the refrigerator and prop the door open to let it air out
• Turn off three important switches to keep from draining your batteries
• the battery disconnect switch on your monitor panel
• the inverter switch, either on the monitor panel with the standard inverter, or just to the left of it with the 2500 watt
inverter
• the Webasto control switch back by the TV, if you have this option
Battery disconnect switch
Inverter Switch
Webasto control switch
• If you turn everything off and you have solar panels, the panels will keep your coach batteries topped up while your
Roadtrek is parked. If you don't have solar panels, it would be prudent to check your coach battery state of charge every
month or so and charge them if necessary. If you don't turn everything off, even with solar panels, you will probably come
back to dead batteries.
That's it! You're ready for the next trip.
© 2015 by Roadtrek, Inc.
Interior Living Space
10
Interior Living Space
Cabinets
Pushbutton latch closed
Pushbutton latch open
Your Roadtrek is equipped with cabinet latches which prevent the door from opening while the vehicle is in motion. The
pushbuttons on the cabinet latches toggle from latched (button in) to unlatched (button out) by pressing the button.
To open a cabinet, press the button to pop the latch, pull gently on the latch, and the cabinet door will open.
To close a cabinet, make sure the latch is still open (button out), then close the door. Once the cabinet door is closed, press
the latch button in to lock the cabinet.
Do not attempt to close the cabinet doors while the latch button is pressed in. This will break the latch. Always make
sure the button is out before attempting to close a cabinet door.
Do not keep large, round, and/or heavy objects in a cabinet unsecured - they will roll around and apply excessive
pressure to the inside of the cabinet doors as you drive. Even if the force of such objects doesn't break the latch, they
can shift position with vehicle motion and be leaning against the inside of the cabinet door, waiting to fall when you open
© 2015 by Roadtrek, Inc.
Interior Living Space
11
the cabinet. For this reason, Roadtrek recommends that you not store anything in the overhead cabinets that you
wouldn't want to get hit over the head with.
If you load a large amount of weight into a cabinet, experience large swings in temperature or humidity, ride on bumpy roads
at high speeds frequently, or sometimes as part of normal wear and tear, the cabinet hinges may go out of adjustment. You
will know the cabinet is out of adjustment when it will not open with the button out, or not latch with the button in.
Apply moderate upward pressure and
GENTLE outward pressure with both
thumbs on the bottom corners of the
door to open a stuck cabinet
Turn screw clockwise to lower cabinet
face (if it won't latch), counterclockwise
to raise it (if it won't open)
To open a cabinet stuck shut with the button out, apply pressure UPWARD with your thumbs on both bottom corners of the
cabinet door while simultaneously applying gentle pressure to open it, as shown above left.
DO NOT FORCE THE DOOR OPEN BY PULLING OR PRYING ON IT - you will break the latch.
The screw in the top part of the hinge nearest the pivot point adjusts the vertical location of the door. Screw out to raise the
door and fix stuck doors; screw in to lower the door and fix doors that won't stay shut when latched, as shown above right.
© 2015 by Roadtrek, Inc.
Interior Living Space
12
Instant Hot Water Dispenser
The instant hot water dispensing system is in the cabinet below the microwave convection oven. The replaceable filter is
accessed inside this cabinet.
On-demand hot water
system filter
E-Trek galley
Galley Drawers
Beneath the galley countertop there are drawers to the left and right of the food preparation surface. Below these there are
two shallow drawers below the center panel and the top right drawer. The spice rack is the tall narrow drawer below these
and between the refrigerator and the convection oven. All these drawers have conventional non-locking knobs, and a friction
closure mechanism to secure them while the E-Trek is in motion. Make sure they are completely closed before driving.
The center panel beneath the countertops in front of the sink is fixed and is NOT a drawer; do not attempt to open it.
You may need to adjust the friction closure form time to time.
© 2015 by Roadtrek, Inc.
Interior Living Space
13
Tables
Your Roadtrek is equipped with two tables for your use, one for the front and one for the rear of the vehicle, each table is
comprised of two pieces; the table top and the table leg.
Table leg storage
Table leg with T-nut
and floor socket
© 2015 by Roadtrek, Inc.
Interior Living Space
14
Rear table set up
Front table leaf
The front table can be found stored against the wall to the left of the passenger seat, the rear table can be found stored
under the bench seat on the driver’s side. Both table legs can be found stored in the cabinet to the right of the bathroom. If
one of the legs is curved, the curved leg is to be used with the front table and the straight leg is to be used for the rear table.
To install the tables, unscrew the T-nut on the end of the leg fully. Insert the T-nut into the slot in the table leg base. Rotate
the leg clockwise until you feel it tighten. Pull on it to check that is is secured. If not, extend the T-nut fully by unscrewing it,
and try again. When the leg is securely installed, set the table top on top of the table leg.
The front table has four leaves that can be used for extra table space. Fold out each leaf and snap it up into place.
Press the hinge flat while folding the leaf down towards the table leg to fold it back down.
© 2015 by Roadtrek, Inc.
Interior Living Space
15
Captain's Seats
Rear swivel lever
Seating Arrangement
To move the front seats to their desired fore and aft position, pull up on the bar located under the front of the seat. Release
the bar to lock the seat in place.
To swivel the front seats, locate the swivel bar positioned on the inboard side of the chair base and move the control
downward against its spring to release the lock and swivel the chair.
Always return the seats to the forward facing position when the vehicle is in motion - the seats will lock in place as
you swivel them to face forward.
© 2015 by Roadtrek, Inc.
Interior Living Space
Front seat swivel
16
Outboard front seat adjustments
Lumbar support adjustment on inboard
side of seat
There are three adjustments on the outboard side of each front seat: the knob in front raises and lowers the front of the seat,
the lever where the back and base of the seat join raises and lowers the back of the seat, and the knob above that on the
seat back reclines the seat back. The lumbar support adjustment is on the inboard side of the seat.
For the full range of adjustments on the front seats, please refer to the Mercedes Sprinter manual.
To create a front lounge area, first bring the backs of the seats to their upright position. Do not attempt to pivot a reclined
seat. You will need to open the doors to pivot the seats. Use the fore-and-aft adjustment while pivoting the seats to allow the
sides of the chairs to clear the armrests on the vehicle doors and other obstructions. Do not force the seats around. Swiveling
the seats is easier if you open the doors and loosen the tilt steering wheel adjustment and move the steering wheel as far
forward and up as possible.
The rear seat fore and aft adjustment is a lever extending forward at the front right corner of the seat base. Push this lever to
the left (driver's) side of vehicle, and slide the seat. The swivel lever for the rear seat is on the right (passenger) side of the
base. Push it backward to release the lock and swivel the seat.
© 2015 by Roadtrek, Inc.
Interior Living Space
17
Lights
Your Roadtrek is equipped with interior lighting designed to give
you control based on your requirements. The E-Trek's interior
lighting fixtures are tap lights. To turn the tap lights on and off,
push on the end of the lens area where the dot is visible.
You must have 12 volt DC power turned on to use the
lights. Refer to the Monitor Panel for more information.
Tap light
© 2015 by Roadtrek, Inc.
Interior Living Space
18
Blinds
Shades drawn
Blinds drawn
The blinds in your Roadtrek can be drawn for either shade or privacy.
The blinds on the side and back windows of the Roadtrek have a partially opaque, "shade" window covering, and also a
completely opaque, "dark" window covering. Pull the blinds down for the "shade" window covering, and then pull the bar
above this first section of blind material down to bring the "dark" section over the windows to sleep or for privacy at night.
The blind above the galley area is an easy-to-clean metal blind which will also close completely for privacy.
© 2015 by Roadtrek, Inc.
Interior Living Space
19
Ventilation
Make sure that the fan is off and the cover completely closed before driving. The cover will rattle if you drive with it
open.
Your Roadtrek is equipped with a ceiling mounted ventilation
fan.
The fan has a cover that must be raised by turning the large
knurled knob. Raise the cover, then use the remote control to
the desired speed and temperature.
There is also a fuse in the body of the fan, in addition to the fuse
in the distribution panel. Check both this fuse and the one on the
12 volt fuse panel if your fan stops working.
For more details, please refer to the Fantastic Fan manual.
Ceiling ventilation fan
© 2015 by Roadtrek, Inc.
Sleeping Facilities
20
Sleeping Facilities
Your Roadtrek has sleeping capacity for up to four people, two in the front of the vehicle with the optional front bed cushions,
and two in the rear of the vehicle on the full or twin bed.
Power Sofa
Sofa switch
Sofa upright
You can configure the rear bed as one king sized bed or two twin beds depending on your preference or requirements. You
begin by lowering the sofa.
To lower the sofa please follow these steps:
• Remove any heavy or bulky objects from the sofa
• Clear the space in front of the sofa.
• Check underneath the sofa for objects that may be caught in the sofa as it moves.
• Push the center seatbelts back through the sofa, between the seat and the back cushions, so the seat belts end up
underneath the sofa.
• Locate the power sofa switch under the television on the passenger side wall near the TV.
© 2015 by Roadtrek, Inc.
Sleeping Facilities
21
• Push down and hold the bottom part of the switch until the sofa is completely flat.
Twin beds
King bed
© 2015 by Roadtrek, Inc.
Sleeping Facilities
22
Twin Beds
You create two twin beds by lowering the sofa. The sofa makes a continuous sleeping surface with the two bench seats,
leaving the center aisle to make it easy to get in and out of bed.
King Bed
Once the sofa has been lowered fully, complete the following
steps to make the king bed.
• Locate the panel under the bench cushions on the passenger’s
side, and slide it out into the open space between the two side
bench seats. Secure it into the notches on the inner surface of
both bench seat bases.
• Reposition the bottom cushions of the side bench seats over
this panel so they are side by side.
• Place the long thin vertical bench seat cushions in the empty
space between the wall and the larger bench seat cushions.
When you raise the sofa put the seat belts back in
position. To do this, open the back door of the vehicle and
push the seatbelts through the sofa between the seat and
back cushions. NEVER use the rear seats for passengers
without seatbelts.
Support board for full bed
© 2015 by Roadtrek, Inc.
Sleeping Facilities
23
Front Seat Beds
The captain seats located at the front of the vehicle can be configured into single bed arrangements with the optional folding
mattresses. Use the following procedure to create one or two single front bed configurations. If you have both folding
mattresses, the short one goes on the driver's side and the longer one goes on the passenger side.
Front captain seat controls
Passenger seats in position for folding
mattress
• Lower the front seat base as far as possible. To do this, look on the outboard side of the front seat, and you will see three
knobs.
• Turn the front seat base height knob clockwise until the front of the seat base is as low as possible.
• Push down on the rear seat base height lever until the back of the seat base is as low as possible.
• Use the recline knob to put the seat back in an upright position.
• Turn both captain seats around so that they face the aisle, and the seatbacks face the doors. You will have to slide the rear
seat forward before you can swivel it. Slide both seats all the way back in their tracks - as far to the outside as possible.
• Push the tab in the mattress between the two seatbacks.
• Open the optional folding mattress across the seats.
• Pass the hook-and-loop straps behind the seatbacks to hold the mattress in position.
© 2015 by Roadtrek, Inc.
Sleeping Facilities
24
Mattress tab between seat backs
Pass hook-and-loop strap behind
seatback
Hook-and-loop strap in place
Passenger side folding
mattress in place
© 2015 by Roadtrek, Inc.
Bathroom Facilities
25
Bathroom Facilities
Your Roadtrek is equipped with a permanently enclosed bathroom that includes a sink and a stand up or sit down shower.
Securing Bathroom Door
Door pin
Door latch
The bathroom doors are secured by a latch and pin system. To secure the doors for driving:
• Close the left hand door first, followed by the right.
• Engage the latches at the top of the doors.
• Push the pin down so that it engages behind the lip at the front of the bathroom door
• Flip the latch closed and tighten the thumbscrew
© 2015 by Roadtrek, Inc.
Bathroom Facilities
26
Using the Toilet
Toilet flush pedal
Toilet paper holder
The bathroom in your Roadtrek contains a marine type toilet. To secure the doors once inside, use the inside latch. To flush
the toilet, use your foot to press the foot pedal located at the bottom of the toilet. When finished, release the foot pedal. Do
not use toilet paper which will clog your black water tank and waste water pump - use only paper which will disintegrate
easily when it gets wet.
© 2015 by Roadtrek, Inc.
Bathroom Facilities
27
Shower
Shower connection and knob
Shower floor drain stopper
Using the Shower
• Unscrew the drain stopper in the center of the bathroom floor
• If the shower hose is disconnected, connect it hose to the threaded fitting behind the sink faucet handles
• Release the hook and loop fastener straps retaining the shower curtain
• Slide the shower curtain along its track to enclose the shower space
• Once ready, pull up on the knob located between the sink faucet handles to start the flow of water
• Adjust the water temperature as needed using the cold and hot water knobs on the sink faucet
© 2015 by Roadtrek, Inc.
Bathroom Facilities
28
Shower curtain stowed
Shower curtain open
After Showering
• Turn off the water using the hot and cold knobs on the sink faucet
• Push the knob located between the sink faucet back down to switch the flow of water back to the sink faucet
• Refasten the drain stopper in the center of the bathroom floor (this is important as it stops the content of the grey water
from sloshing into the shower area while the vehicle is in motion)
• Dry the shower curtain with a towel or allow it to air dry before storing it
© 2015 by Roadtrek, Inc.
Appliances
29
Appliances
TV and Home Theatre System
Your Roadtrek is equipped with a 120 volt TV and home theatre system with remote control for your enjoyment and viewing
pleasure. To power to these appliances, you must turn on the inverter or connect to shore power.
The TV is an ordinary TV that works the way all TVs do. It may take a minute or two to boot up after you turn on the inverter.
Antenna and Cable Connections
There are two antenna connections in the cabinet above the DVD player. One is labeled for the antenna, the other for cable
TV. Connect the cable to the appropriate jack.
Refer to HOWTO: Cable and TV Reception for the location of the cable TV connection and how to hook up to cable.
TV antenna and cable connections
Rear speaker control switch
© 2015 by Roadtrek, Inc.
Appliances
30
Controlling the Rear Speakers
The surround sound system offered in your Roadtrek allows you to control the rear speaker sound in your vehicle. The
speaker switch is located in the cabinet above the home theater system.
• Surround Setting: Allows back speakers to function as part of the TV/home theater system
• Off Setting: Turns the rear speakers off
• Automotive Setting: Connects the rear speakers to the front dash radio
If you are experiencing problems with your TV reception while using the over-the-air antenna, check the connection
to the antenna in the cabinet above the home theatre system.
Check to see if the blue indicator light on the antenna is lit.
Instant hot water dispenser
Instant hot water dispenser
Filter for hot water
dispenser, located in the
galley cabinet
Instant hot water dispenser switch,
located behind the driver's side rear
seat
© 2015 by Roadtrek, Inc.
Appliances
31
Your instant hot water dispenser provides water at a temperature hot enough to brew coffee or tea. It is located at the top
left hand corner of the kitchen sink.
To turn it on, use the switch on the right hand side of the galley cabinet face, behind the driver’s side passenger seat.
Make sure you turn this appliance off when not in use as it consumes a large amount of electricity. Leaving it on will
significantly reduce the amount of time your batteries will supply power before needing to be recharged.
Hot Water
See Heating and Cooling.
Refrigerator latch
Induction stove
© 2015 by Roadtrek, Inc.
Appliances
32
Refrigerator
The refrigerator in your Roadtrek is a 12 volt DC/120 volt AC compressor refrigerator that switched automatically between
voltages. The temperature control for the refrigerator is located inside the freezer on the right.
To open the refrigerator, push down on the latch located on the upper right hand corner of the refrigerator to release the
retaining pin and pull the door towards you.
Your refrigerator will run on either 12 volt battery power or 120 volt inverter power, but because of the conversion loss in the
12 volt to 120 volt transformation it will use less electricity if the inverter is off and it is running on 12 volt power.
Do not block the vent between the galley cabinet top and the window by storing things in this space. This vent must
be unobstructed for the refrigerator to work properly.
Microwave Convection Oven
The microwave oven is a standard microwave convection oven operating on 120 volt AC power. You have to have 120 volt AC
power available either from your inverter or shore power to use it.
Cooktop Stove
The induction cooktop stove requires special induction ready cookware, which can be purchased anywhere cookware is sold.
Using cookware not suitable for induction cooking, such as stainless steel or aluminum, will result in the cooktop stove not
working.
For instructions on how to use this appliance, please refer to the Induction cooktop stove manual.
© 2015 by Roadtrek, Inc.
Outside your Roadtrek
33
Outside your Roadtrek
Awning
Power awning switch above front
passenger seat
Awning support attachment point
Your Roadtrek is equipped with an easy to use power roll up awning.
Please read the awning manual before you start. You need to know how the supports are attached and how to secure
the awning. The steps here are meant as an indication of what is needed.
To use the awning please follow these steps:
• Check the area and make sure the awning has room to open without hitting anything.
• Locate the power awning switch inside the passenger side front door, above the doorframe.
• Press the switch to extend the awning and lower the supports on each side.
• Once extended, secure the supports to the two attachment points on the side of the vehicle.
To stow the awning:
© 2015 by Roadtrek, Inc.
Outside your Roadtrek
34
• Detach the supports from the attachment points
• Retract the awning using the power switch
Refer to the awning manual for proper methods of deploying and securing the awning.
Never leave your awning extended when you are away from your vehicle. Awnings are susceptible to damage from
heavy rain and wind. Stow awning when bad weather is approaching.
The awning is only powered when the ignition switch is off. To use the awning, turn off the ignition.
Exterior Step
Step switch
Step extended
Your Roadtrek is equipped with a step that automatically extends when the side door is opened for easy entry and exit out of
your vehicle. With the step switch on, the step will extend once when the door is open and remain extended even if the door
is closed. With the switch off, the step will extend and retract every time the door is opened and closed.
For safety reasons, the step will automatically retract when the ignition is turned on, even if the step switch is on.
This is to prevent damage caused by driving with the step extended.
© 2015 by Roadtrek, Inc.
Outside your Roadtrek
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Utility bays
There are three exterior access doors along the bottom between the wheels on the driver’s side of the vehicle.
The compartment behind the front door is empty and not used.
Prop to hold bay doors open
Waste disposal and cable TV access
Shore power connection
The compartment behind the second door contains (left to right) the waste water disposal hose, the gray water valve handle,
the black water value handle, the waste water disposal pump cleaning knob, the cable TV connection point and the fresh
water fill port.
The compartment behind the third door contains the spare tire and the shore power connection point.
© 2015 by Roadtrek, Inc.
Outside your Roadtrek
36
Fuel Fill
Fuel fill access
Fuel fill access
The fuel fill door is located directly behind the driver on the outside of the vehicle. To fill your Roadtrek with fuel:
• Open the driver side door
• Swing open the fuel fill cover
• Shut the driver’s door (to prevent fumes from entering the car)
• Remove the fuel cap
• Fill the tank with DIESEL FUEL ONLY
• After fueling, replace the fuel cap
• Re-open the driver’s side door
• Shut the fuel fill cover
For DEF fill, please refer to the Sprinter Owner's manual.
Refer to the Sprinter Owner's Manual for detailed instructions.
© 2015 by Roadtrek, Inc.
Outside your Roadtrek
37
Rear Doors
Rear door retaining strap
Rear door magnet
The Rear doors of your Roadtrek have the ability to open all the way so they fold against the sides of the vehicle. To open the
doors to their fullest potential;
• Open the door to 90 degrees
• Close them slightly to relieve some of the tension on the door strap
• Pull out the curved door strap by the tail light assembly and fold it back against the door
• To close the door, flip the door strap around and it will automatically engage as you close the door
There are magnetic door stops on the back of the door and on the side of the vehicle which prevent the door from
swinging shut from its own weight.
© 2015 by Roadtrek, Inc.
Outside your Roadtrek
38
Propane
Specific models are provisioned with an on-board propane tank.
Main Shutoff valve
Propane tank
Support for side compartment cover
Main valve
You must close the tank shutoff valve when the vehicle is not in daily use. Further, you must close the shutoff valve
when the vehicle is traveling. Never operate any propane appliance while the vehicle is in motion.
The propane shutoff valve has arrows on it to tell you which way to turn it - clockwise is closed and counterclockwise is open.
If you close the main valve for an extended period of time it is possible for the distribution lines to fill with air. It may take a
while for propane to fill the lines again. The fridge and water heater handle this automatically; for the stove you can hear the
difference between propane and air.
© 2015 by Roadtrek, Inc.
Outside your Roadtrek
39
BBQ pigtail
High pressure BBQ pigtail, in stowed
position in front of passenger rear tire
Propane pigtail, removed from retaining
enclosure
With yellow dustcap removed and valve
in open position
The propane system has a high-pressure auxiliary BBQ takeoff. Locate the hose by reaching under the edge of the Roadtrek
about halfway between the rear passenger tire opening and the side door. Pull the hose toward the back of the Roadtrek to
release it from the channel it is stowed in. The hose has a yellow dustcap, and an integral cutoff valve which is closed when
the brass handle is across the line, and open when the handle is parallel to the line. This takeoff provides 15PSI regulated
propane to appliances that have their own regulators or are built to use high-pressure propane. Many grills in the US are low
pressure (.5 PSI) and cannot use this connection without an additional regulator. The auxiliary BBQ male connector is Cast
Products part # 829000 or 829120. The hose assembly in varying lengths is available as MB Sturgis part no. 100476.
Always store the hose back in the channel it was in when you removed it - do not let it dangle loose beneath the
Roadtrek while driving.
The hose is available from your Roadtrek dealer. Roadtrek strongly cautions against home-made hoses due to risk of
failure.
© 2015 by Roadtrek, Inc.
Outside your Roadtrek
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Optional Rear Door Screen
Roadtreks have an optional rear screen which allows you to open the rear doors and get fresh air without bugs coming in or
pets going out. Look in the hanging wardrobe behind the bathroom for this screen in your new Roadtrek. The screen attaches
to the rear door frame with a zipper and hook-and-loop fasteners.
Open the screen and locate the two tabs on one edge. This edge is the bottom, and the tabs snap onto the rear seat belt
anchors. Fasten these two snaps on each anchor and use the hook-and-loop strips on the screen to attach it across the
bottom of the door opening.
Rear screen tabs
Rear screen lower hook-and-loop fastener
Start the zipper at each bottom corner by pushing the bottom stop (the metal end) of the zipper into the two back-to-back
zipper sliders, and zipping the top slider upward.
© 2015 by Roadtrek, Inc.
Outside your Roadtrek
41
Rear door screen zipper
Rear door screen top hook-and-loop
fastener
At the top, close the flap with the hook-and-loop fastener strip where the zippers meet.
Use the double slider to unzip the bottom of the screen to allow access to the underbed storage area in the back of the
Roadtrek without disturbing the top section.
© 2015 by Roadtrek, Inc.
Outside your Roadtrek
Rear door screen storage opening
42
Rear door screen in
place
To remove and stow the screen, unzip it from the top down. Unzipping it from the bottom will not allow you to remove it from
the doorframe surround.
While sturdy enough to keep insects out, this screen is not designed to resist repeated and persistent attempts by
pets to get out of the vehicle. Do not leave your pets unattended with the screen in place and the doors open. They may
take themselves for a walk.
© 2015 by Roadtrek, Inc.
Utilities
43
Utilities
Just like your house, your Roadtrek has fresh water, electricity, waste water disposal, heating, and cooling systems. In the
Roadtrek, these systems are self contained and travel with you.
Fresh Water
Fresh water is contained in two tanks, called the exterior and interior tanks. The interior tank is under the front passenger
seat, and drains automatically to the exterior tank, which is attached to the body below this seat.
Valve access panel
City water valve, shown closed
© 2015 by Roadtrek, Inc.
Utilities
44
• The fresh water fill is in the door post of the front passenger door, near the door handle. Look for
the orange plug in the fill port.
Do not run the hose bib wide open. Fill the tank slowly.
• Both tanks are filled from the gravity fill in the passenger door post - water will flow from the
interior tank down into the exterior tank as you continue to run water into the fill port. When both
tanks are full, water will overflow out of the fill port.
To use the water from the on-board tanks, make sure the city water valve remains closed.
Gravity fill
City Water
Your Roadtrek can operate in either fully self-contained mode, or can be connected to a water supply such as a campsite's
faucet.
Campgrounds and municipalities vary greatly in supplied water pressure. Before connecting to external water
supplies, purchase and install a pressure regulator inline with the water connection.
If you have any doubts about water pressure or don't have a regulator with you, you can always just fill your fresh
water tank using the gravity fill, and use your water pump to supply water.
The city water inlet connection is located in the small compartment just in front of the driver's side rear tire.
Roadtrek recommends that you use a dedicated single purpose potable-water hose. These are usually white in color.
Buy a new one and use it only for filling your tanks and connecting to city water. View any hose lying around a
campground with extreme skepticism, especially if there's a wastewater dump nearby. Large RVs use hoses to flush their
wastewater system.
© 2015 by Roadtrek, Inc.
Utilities
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Typical water pressure regulator
Built-in pressure regulator
City water connection, driver's side
behind access bay door
Check to see if you have a built-in pressure regulator. If your city water connection has the words "Pressure Regulator"
around the hose connection, you do not need an external regulator. If in doubt you can always use an external regulator.
To connect the Roadtrek's water system to an outside source:
• Turn the water pump off.
• Close the city tank fill valve by turning the handle to the vertical position.
• Close all interior faucets.
• Flush old water and any contaminants out of the water supply faucet.
• Connect your fresh water hose to the faucet.
• Attach your pressure regulator to the Roadtrek's city water connection.
• Attach a fresh water hose to the the pressure regulator.
• Slowly open the faucet of the city water source.
• The city water connection by-passes the water pump and fresh water tank. Therefore, the use of these items is not
necessary when connected directly to an external water source.
To disconnect the city water connection:
• Turn off the external water source.
© 2015 by Roadtrek, Inc.
Utilities
46
• Open a faucet to relieve the pressure in the system. Failure to do so will not damage your vehicle, but may result in an
unexpected shower.
• Close the city tank fill valve (handle will be vertical).
• Remove the hose from the city water connection, and replace the cap on the fill connection.
If you hear your pump running and water pressure is low inside the vehicle after disconnecting from an external
water source, it may be because you have not properly positioned the city water valve. Make sure the black plastic
handle is vertical, and perpendicular to the water line when your water system is in self-contained mode.
See HOWTO: Potable Water Use for a concise summary of how to operate your fresh water system.
Waste Water
Sink and shower drain water drains into the gray water tank; the black water tanks contains
the material flushed down the toilet. The shower and sink have traps to prevent tank odors
from entering the living space. Be sure to replace the screw-in plug in the shower floor after
use to prevent gray water from sloshing up while driving.
The gray and black water tank level indicators on the control panel will give you an
approximate indicator of your tank levels. See HOWTO: Monitor Panel for more information
on indicators. When the gray water tank is full to capacity, water will no longer drain down
the shower and sink drains, you will need to dump the tanks before running any more water.
If you see fluid below the toilet valve in the bowl of the toilet, your black water tank is full
and also needs to be emptied before further use.
Drain plug
Do not throw any paper towels, personal wipes, rags, baby wipes, tampons, hairballs, etc. into the toilet. The waste
water pump is not capable of handling these types of solids and may jam or be damaged. Use only toilet paper intended
for RVs or septic systems.
If in doubt, take a tissue, and leave it in a glass of water. Stir with a spoon a couple of times. If it falls apart into a
gooey slurry after a few minutes it`s safe for your tank. If it stays together, swells up, or clumps into a solid mass, it`s
not safe and should be disposed of in the trash and not down the toilet.
© 2015 by Roadtrek, Inc.
Utilities
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See HOWTO: Waste Water Dumping for a concise summary of how to operate your waste water system.
© 2015 by Roadtrek, Inc.
Heating and Cooling
48
Heating and Cooling
Heating
Your Roadtrek has a single unit that provides both cabin heat
and hot water. The controls are located behind the TV. To access
the Webasto hot water and cabin heating controls, swivel the
television out of the way.
The controller has two dials; the left selects the mode and the
right sets the heating level.
For the left dial, starting at the Lock position and going
clockwise:
• Drain - the unit will lock out for 90 minutes and drain the
system. This is done as a part of winterizing; see HOWTO:
Water System Winterizing
• Off - unit is off and consumes no electricity
• Summer mode - first two positions are for Summer use - i.e.,
hot water but no cabin heat.
• Selects 40 deg. C water temperature
• Selects 70 deg. C water temperature
• Winter mode - these two positions are for Winter use - i.e.,
cabin heat with or without hot water. The right knob selects the level of cabin heat.
Heating controls
• The first position selects cabin heat only and no hot water
• Second position selects cabin heat and hot water production
• Frost protection - the last setting on the right is frost protection. In this mode the heater will operate to keep the water in
the boiler above freezing.
This does not provide any protection for the pipes and faucets in the rest of the E-Trek. To protect these, perform the
winterization procedure.
© 2015 by Roadtrek, Inc.
Heating and Cooling
49
For more information, please consult the Owner's Manual for the Webasto Dual Top Evo unit.
The Webasto unit is connected directly to the battery bank, and is not controlled by the battery disconnect switch. For this
reason, please ensure the unit is turned off to avoid draining the batteries when the E-Trek is not in use, or any time hot
water and cabin heating is not needed.
Although there is no direct flame, the Webasto unit does burn diesel fuel, and you may notice an odor if you leave the rear
doors or windows open.
Unlike direct flame water heaters, which heat water quickly, the Webasto unit takes approximately an hour to warm the water
to the desired temperature, sometimes longer when the water going into the unit is very cold. Anticipate times when you will
need hot water for the sink and shower, and turn the unit on in time to heat the water for your use.
Cooling
The roof-mounted air conditioner in your E-Trek will provide cool
air while camping, and will also operate while driving, since the
engine generator will provide more than enough electricity to
operate it and still charge the batteries. See the FAQ:Electrical
System section for a discussion about how long you can operate
the air conditioner and other high-load electrical devices on
battery power.
Refer to the air conditioner manual for details of use.
Thermostat
The E-Trek thermostat controls the air conditioning unit. Set the
thermostat on "cool" and set the desired temperature.Some
Thermostat
models also have a small heat strip in the air conditioning which
will blow warm air, but this produces heat directly from
electricity and is not recommended for heating the E-Trek cabin for extended periods of time unless you are attached to
shore power or running the engine. For all other circumstances, use the diesel-fueled hot water system to heat the cabin. If
your unit has the heat strip option, you can operate it by turning the thermostat to "furnace" and setting the desired
© 2015 by Roadtrek, Inc.
Heating and Cooling
50
temperature.
The third setting, "fan", recirculates cabin air using the fan inside the air conditioning unit.
© 2015 by Roadtrek, Inc.
Electrical System
51
Electrical System
Refer to Monitor Panel for locations of the controls referred to in this article.
Batteries
The batteries in your Roadtrek are sealed AGM (absorbed glass mat) batteries. Do not attempt to open them. There is no user
maintenance possible on these batteries.
Do not add water to the batteries. Do not attempt to open them. There is no user maintenance possible on these
batteries except keeping them charged.
Battery maintenance, i.e. keeping the batteries charged, is the responsibility of the dealer while the vehicle is
unsold, and the responsibility of the onwer once sold. Roadtrek does not cover warranty replacement of the batteries for
lack of maintenance.
Roadtrek places the coach batteries under the hood, but the actual chassis battery that powers the engine, headlights, etc. is
under the driver's floor. Mercedes has created jumper cable points under the hood in case you have to jump your battery to
get your engine started. Use these. They will start your engine - jumping the coach batteries won't, and will probably damage
your inverter and other sensitive electronic components in your Roadtrek.
Do NOT attach jumper cables to the 6 volt coach batteries under the hood on the driver's side. Attaching a high
amperage 12 volt power supply to a 6 volt battery is very dangerous. Use the Mercedes jumper attachment points
instead.
To use jumper cables, refer to the Mercedes Owner's Manual for the procedure.
© 2015 by Roadtrek, Inc.
Electrical System
Positive jumper point, on passenger side
of the engine. Push the red disc in to
expose the contact.
52
Coach batteries and negative jumper
attachment point - brass stud protruding
from side wall of engine compartment
© 2015 by Roadtrek, Inc.
Electrical System
53
Battery Disconnect Switch
The battery disconnect switch provides power to all 12 volt
appliances, such as the water pump, the refrigerator, and so
forth. This switch should be off when you are not using your
Roadtrek, and on whenever you are driving or camping. The
"Battery On" light next to it will indicate the position of the
switch.
Battery disconnect switch
© 2015 by Roadtrek, Inc.
Electrical System
54
Inverter
The inverter switch turns on the inverter, which produces 120
volt household current from the battery bank. Turn this switch
on whenever you wish to use any 120 volt appliance, such as the
television or DVD player, or want to plug one of your appliances
into an electrical receptacle. Turn this switch off upon retiring at
night or when the system is not in use, since the inverter
produces a small but steady drain on the batteries even though
none of the 120 volt electricity is being used.
The "Power Saver On" setting will shut the inverter down to save
power when there are no loads being used. There will be a 20
second delay if you turn something on, after which the inverter
will be out of sleep mode and supplying power. To avoid this
delay (and consequently use more power), select the "Power
Save Off" setting.
The inverter checks for a load by turning on the power
briefly and checking if appliances are connected. This can
cause some appliances, such as the microwave to turn on
and off. If this happens, either unplug the appliance or turn
the inverter off or on.
Inverter switch
The inverter is configured at the factory for the batteries and power sources in the E-Trek. Please do not change any settings
without consulting the factory.
© 2015 by Roadtrek, Inc.
Electrical System
55
Engine Generator
Driving down the road, you typically have all the electricity you
can use because the engine generator is producing electrical
power. However, once stopped, and particularly after sunset
when the solar panel is not producing electricity, turning off
electrical items when not in use will make the charge in your
batteries last for a longer period of time.
Your vehicle is equipped with an engine generator. The engine
generator is mounted on the vehicle engine and is operated by
idling the vehicle engine. If your coach batteries are low, simply
start the vehicle engine and let it idle until the batteries are
sufficiently charged. Usually 30 minutes of idling are enough to
restore moderately depleted coach batteries to a useful level of
charge. The length of time required to charge your batteries will
depend on many factors and may be longer than 30 minutes.
You must rev the engine to 2,500 RPM for 10 seconds to
start charging your batteries.
Engine generator
As with a conventional generator, always close the rear windows of the vehicle and turn off the roof ventilation fan when the
engine generator is charging the batteries to avoid exhaust entering the vehicle's interior.
The engine generator is charging the coach batteries whenever the vehicle's engine is in operation, which means you are
charging them as you drive. You will arrive at your camping destination with fully charged coach batteries.
There is no required maintenance for the engine generator. Note, however, that your vehicle's serpentine belt (the belt which
drives the vehicle's alternator, water pump, power steering, etc.) will be different than the one for similar vehicles without the
engine generator, so carrying a spare belt may be prudent in case you have a serpentine belt failure while traveling. The
NAPA belt number for long wheelbase Sprinter Roadtreks with the engine generator is 060523HD, and the belt dimensions
are 13/16" x 52 7/8" or 20 mm x 1342 mm outside circumference.
© 2015 by Roadtrek, Inc.
Electrical System
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Solar Panels
The solar panels operate automatically and the charger and
controller are configured at the factory. Please do not change
the settings on the controller. The controller is located in the
cabinet above the galley. It will display either system voltage or
current amperage being produced.
Shore Power
The shore power connector is located on the driver's side, just in
front of the rear wheel. See Outside Your Roadtrek for location
and a concise guide to plugging in and unplugging. The
switchover from shore power to inverter is automatic - the
inverter will sense the incoming shore power as soon as you plug
it in.
Solar controller
© 2015 by Roadtrek, Inc.
Electrical System
57
To connect to external (shore) power, open the rear
doors and remove the power cord from underneath the
sofa bed. The rearmost of the utility bays on the bottom
of the driver's side contains the connection point for the
power cord. Plug the power cord into the campsite 30A
power source and the other end into the E-Trek. Your
remote inverter display has an indicator light to tell you
when you are connected to shore power. If the indicator
light is not lit, check the breakers on the campsite
power source. For a concise summary of how to
connect and disconnect shore power see HOWTO:
Shore Power.
Electrical Outlets
Inverter LEDs
The outlets are powered from the inverter at all times.
The outlets are protected by GFCI (ground fault circuit
interrupters). All the outlets in your E-Trek should have power when the inverter is on.
© 2015 by Roadtrek, Inc.
Electrical System
58
Galley GFCI outlet
GFCI outlet behind rear captain's seat
The electrical outlets above the galley and behind the passenger side rear captain's seat have ground fault circuitry (GFCI) the button in the middle of the outlet pops out when they sense an anomaly or sometimes when the circuit undergoes
transitional load conditions. If you are not getting power from an outlet, check and reset this button if needed by pushing it in.
The one over the galley provides protection for outlets on the driver's side of the E-Trek. The outlet behind the passenger side
rear captain's chair provides GFCI protection for the TV and DVD player, so check it if your TV is not receiving power. There is
also a 12 volt power socket behind this chair.
The inverter must be on to power the 120V outlets even if plugged in to shore power.
The inverter must be on to test or reset the GFCI outlets.
Keeping Your Batteries Charged
Just as you have limited amounts of food and water in your Roadtrek, your ability to store electricity, although large, is not
unlimited. Knowing how to maintain your batteries' state of charge is an important component of the E-Trek's operation. Read
the FAQ:Electrical System to better understand your E-Trek's capabilities and how to maintain them.
© 2015 by Roadtrek, Inc.
Monitor Panel
59
Monitor Panel
Location
The monitor panel is located inside the side door, above the rear captain's seat. To the left of the main monitor panel is the
inverter switch.
Power Sources
Monitor Panel
Inverter Control Panel
The monitor panel controls two separate power sources; the 12 volt DC power and the 120 volt AC power via the inverter. The
inverter switch also has a shore power and battery charging indicator.
© 2015 by Roadtrek, Inc.
Monitor Panel
60
12 Volt DC Power
The EcoTrek Batteries
If your Roadtrek has the optional EcoTrek batteries, you have individual switches for each EcoTrek 200 module.
EcoTrek 400 dual controls
Jump starting an EcoTrek 200; note the
left bank is off
A single EcoTrek 200 will have one rocker switch at the bottom and one pushbutton switch at the top of the panel. An EcoTrek
400 will have two sets of switches, and so on.
The lower rocker switch turns on the bank. In normal operation this switch should always be on. This powers the battery
management system, which manages all functions of the EcoTrek 200, including charging, voltage protection, and the battery
heaters when it gets cold.
The battery management system will turn off the batteries when they are run down to near empty. The system will still
accept charge, but will no longer provide power.
© 2015 by Roadtrek, Inc.
Monitor Panel
61
Turning on the batteries
Press the lower rocker switch to turn it on. Press the reset button for about 30 seconds to power up the Battery Management
System.
When not in use, turn the batteries off. When storing the batteries for extended periods, charge them overnight first.
In cold weather, the battery management system will start the battery heaters first to warm up the batteries.
Depending on the temperature, it could be a while until the batteries are at a temperature where they can be charged.
If you have more than one EcoTrek 200, and all have been depleted, start one first, allow it to charge for 30 minutes
or an hour, then bring up the others. The current draw is the highest at the start, and this allows the charging system to
keep up. Strictly speaking this is not necessary, but it is a useful guideline.
If you store your Roadtrek in cold weather, leave the EcoTrek batteries on and plug in so that the battery
management system can continue to heat and charge the batteries as needed.
© 2015 by Roadtrek, Inc.
Monitor Panel
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The 12V main power switch
Battery disconnect switch
Generator switch and hour meter
(optional)
The power to the 12 volt DC outlets and appliances is controlled by the battery disconnect switch to the lower left.
If you have the optional EcoTrek battery modules, they must be powered on first.
On the bottom left is the battery disconnect switch, which supplies 12 volt battery power to the 12 volt light and other cabin
appliances. This switch must be on for any of the 12 volt electrical devices to work, with the exception of the Webasto
diesel-burning water heating system, which has its own on-off switch on the main control back by the television. Remember
to turn off three switches - the inverter switch, the battery disconnect switch, and the Webasto system all off when your
E-Trek is not being used to avoid discharging the batteries.
The battery disconnect switch has a blue indicator light to the right of it to show you that the battery power is on.
© 2015 by Roadtrek, Inc.
Monitor Panel
63
Inverter
The inverter provides 120 volt AC (household current) to the 120 volt appliances and wall outlets.
Turn the inverter on only when you need household power. It uses a fair amount of energy just being on, so turn it on when
you need power and turn it off when you don't.
Do not change the setting on the inverter itself. That switch must be OFF for the remote panel to have any effect.
Shore Power and Battery Charge Indicator
There is a shore power indicator and battery charging indicator light on the right side of the remote inverter switch to show
you when the system is receiving shore power and charging your batteries.
Optional Propane Generator
The generator is an option that is only available on specific models. It is not available on any ETrek optioned models.
To start the generator, push the generator toggle switch on the top end (START). Allow the generator to run for a couple of
minutes before turning on heavy loads such as the air conditioner. The hour meter to the right of the generator start switch
measures hours of generator operation.
To stop the generator, first shut down all heavy loads, let the generator run for a few minutes to cool down, then press the
bottom (STOP) end of the rocker switch.
© 2015 by Roadtrek, Inc.
Monitor Panel
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Other Switches
Patio Light
On the control panel, the top left switch is the patio lights switch. Press the top of the button to turn the lights on, and the
bottom to turn them off. These are LED lights and use very little power.
Patio light switch
Water pump switch
Tank and battery level indicators
Water Pump Switch
The button to the right of the patio light switch is the water pump switch. It should be on only when you have water in the
fresh water tanks and wish to use the sinks, showers, or toilet. The pump makes a characteristic noise when it is out of water,
and should not be run without water. If your fresh water tank runs dry, turn the pump off until you refill the tank. As with the
patio light switch, pressing the top of the button turns the pump on, and pressing the bottom turns it off.
The water pump can be left on to provide on-demand water as long as the tank has water in it and the pump is not running
dry.
© 2015 by Roadtrek, Inc.
Monitor Panel
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Tank Levels and Battery Charge Indicators
To the right of the control panel are the indicator lights for the battery charge level, the fresh water tank level, and the black
and gray water tank levels. Press the button for each to see the display.
These indicator lights will give you an approximate reading, to the nearest third, of how much is in each tank. The four
indicator light levels for the battery represent low, fair, good, and charging states of charge.
© 2015 by Roadtrek, Inc.
Distribution Panel
66
Distribution Panel
The distribution panel is located behind the driver in the overhead cabinet. The 120VAC breakers are behind a plastic panel
and the 12VDC fuses are behind a black cover inside the cabinet. The breakers and fuses are labeled on the lid.
AC Breaker Panel
120VAC breaker panel
120VAC breaker panel showing breakers
The 120 volt breakers are located on the driver's side above the rear captain's chair behind a black plastic panel. Look on the
inside of the cover for the "cheat sheet" label with the identifying information on each breaker, telling you what each one
provides power to. When storing the E-Trek for the winter, turn off the battery disconnect switch, the diesel-fueled hot water
system, your inverter, and all circuit breakers in this panel.
© 2015 by Roadtrek, Inc.
Distribution Panel
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12 Volt Fuse Panel
12 volt DC fuse box
12 volt DC fuse box open
The 12 volt fuses are located in the overhead cabinet just to the left of the 120 volt circuit breakers. Open the cabinet and
remove the black plastic cover to access the fuses. The "cheat sheet" label on the inside of the cover has information on what
appliance or light each fuse provides power to.
© 2015 by Roadtrek, Inc.
Alarms and Warnings
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Alarms and Warnings
CO Monitor
Propane and Carbon Monoxide alarm
Smoke Alarm
Your vehicle has been equipped with a combination propane leak and carbon monoxide detection device for your protection.
The Carbon Monoxide and Propane Leak detector is located on the passenger side, near the floor under the TV.
Be sure the detector is operating while using your vehicle. Do not block air circulation in the area where the propane leak
detector is located. The detector runs on 12 volt power, and is operational whenever the battery disconnect switch is on. For
this reason, whenever the vehicle is occupied the battery disconnect switch should be in the "on" position.
Coach power on the Monitor Panel must be on for detector operation. Make sure your battery disconnect switch is on
if you are inside your unit, particularly if you are asleep.
Do not disable, unplug, or otherwise hinder the operation of this detector or the smoke detector.
© 2015 by Roadtrek, Inc.
Alarms and Warnings
69
The detector has a useful service life, beyond which it needs to be replaced. See Manufacturer’s Owner’s Manual for
other operating instructions, or look for the sticker which is sometimes placed on the detector to see the replacement
date.
The detector may chirp if the coach batteries are running low.
Smoke Detector
The smoke detector is located above the back of the front passenger seat on the transverse wooden bulkhead. It is powered
by a commonly available 9 volt battery which needs periodic replacement. Refer to the Owner's Manual for the smoke
detector for the replacement interval for both the battery and the detector as a whole.
Fire Extinguisher
Your Roadtrek comes equipped with a dry chemical fire
extinguisher suitable for all fires. Before every trip, check to see
that the needle on the dial is in the green range. If not, replace
the fire extinguisher. DO NOT test your fire extinguisher by
discharging it - total discharge time is 8 to 12 seconds, so it will
become rapidly depleted if you test it this way. Service life on
fire extinguishers currently supplied is 12 years; replace the fire
extinguisher if it is more than 12 years past the year of
manufacture stamped on the base of the cylinder.
Fire extinguisher located under front passenger seat
© 2015 by Roadtrek, Inc.
Maintenance
70
Maintenance
Tires
See the automotive chassis manufacturer's owner's manual and documents for tire warranty information. Inflation pressure
information is on the sticker inside the galley cabinet door. The current Mercedes Sprinter manual recommends checking tire
pressures regularly - at least every other week, and definitely before a long trip. Tire rotation intervals depend on wear and
other factors, but tires should be rotated at least every maintenance interval - every 40,000 km/24,000 miles. Follow the tire
rotation pattern for dual rear wheel models in your owner's manual.
Cargo Carrying Capacity
See the information labels attached to the driver door post, and the inside of the lower galley cabinet door.
Owner Maintenance Checks
Listed below are vehicle maintenance checks and inspections that should be performed by the owner or qualified service
technician at the indicated intervals. Any adverse conditions should be brought to the attention of your dealer or qualified
service technician for expert service advice as soon as possible. The owner maintenance checks are generally not covered by
warranties and you may be charged for labor, parts and supplies used.
© 2015 by Roadtrek, Inc.
Maintenance
71
When You Stop for Fuel, or Weekly
Check engine oil level.
Look for low or underinflated tires.
Every Other Week
Check tire pressure on all tires and your spare.
At Least Monthly
Check coolant level in the coolant recovery reservoir.
Check windshield washer fluid, brake fluid and power steering fluid levels.
Check operation of all exterior lamps, including brake lamps, turn signals and hazard warning flashers.
At Least Every Three Months
Flush black water holding tank. Use a hose or bucket to fill the tank through the toilet, and dump.
Flush grey water holding tank. Use a hose or bucket to fill the tank through the galley sink, and dump.
Flush and sanitize fresh water tank. To flush the tank, fill it completely using the gravity fill, and drain using the freshwater
tank drain underneath the passenger side door sill. Sanitize by adding 1/2 cup chlorine bleach to the tank, fill with water, let
sit for at least two hours, and drain. 1/2 cup vinegar added to the next tankful, which will also be drained before filling with
fresh water for use, will help dissipate the chlorine smell.
Refer to other sections in this manual for drain and fill locations.
© 2015 by Roadtrek, Inc.
Maintenance
72
At Least Twice A Year
Check windshield wiper operation. Clean wiper blades with clean cloth dampened with washer fluid. Wiper blades should be
replaced at least once a year.
Check radiator, heater and air-conditioning hoses for leaks or damage.
Check for worn tires and loose wheel lug nuts.
Check parking brake system - put the brake on and see if it will hold on a moderate hill. If not, get it repaired.
Check head lamp alignment - shine your low beam headlights on a wall. The light patterns should be the same height.
Measure headlight height at the vehicle with a yardstick - the light patterns should be the almost same height or slightly less
with your vehicle level. If not, get the headlights aligned.
Check lap and shoulder belts for wear and function. Replace any belts with frayed spots or that do not smoothly retract into
their holders.
Inspect appliance vents to ensure they are free from dirt, insects, spider webs and/or nests.
Inspect black water tank vent and remove any debris or other obstructions. The black water tank vent is on the roof,
passenger side, in the bathroom area.
Clean air conditioner filter. See air conditioner manual for details.
Thoroughly clean and wax the roof of the van. To wash the solar panel, use a garden hose to rinse dirt off the panel. Do not
scrub it with a brush or otherwise apply any abrasive material to the solar panel surface. Rinsing the panel two or three times
a year to remove excess dirt is all you need to do to keep the panel operating at full output.
With the tanks empty, add one cup of mineral oil and one cup of hot water to the black and grey tanks.
At Least Once a Year
Lubricate all door hinges, locks and latches, especially the exposed hinges on exterior doors. These will freeze up and cause
damage to the doors if neglected.
Have appliances tested and cleaned.
Wax & polish and protect exterior surfaces. The wheels are coated aluminum - there is no bare aluminum on the vehicle, so
do not use aluminum polish on any surface of your Roadtrek. The wheel center caps are chrome.
© 2015 by Roadtrek, Inc.
Maintenance
73
To prevent water from entering your vehicle, avoid spraying water directly into exterior vents or grills. Do not use a power
washer to clean your Roadtrek - damage to the paint, removal of decals, and water leaks will result. Hand washing or
commercial car washes accommodating large vehicles are the best way to keep your Roadtrek clean and shiny.
Other maintenance checks
Follow the maintenance for your appliances per the appliance manufacturer's manual.
© 2015 by Roadtrek, Inc.
Spare Tire Storage
74
Spare Tire Storage
The spare tire is located on the driver's side, behind the third utility bay door just in front of the rear tire and below the
vehicle.
The jack is stored beneath the front passenger's feet behind a plastic panel. Pull up the floormat, turn the plastic plug 90
degrees with a coin or key in the slot on the plug, and the panel will come loose to reveal the jack and lug nut wrench.
Tool access in front passenger footwell.
Use a coin to turn the retaining clip and
access the compartment.
Jack, handle, and "banana" lever to lower
spare tire carrier. Red arrow points to
special lug nuts which MUST be used on
steel spare wheel.
The spare wheel is located on the driver side behind the rear storage door.
The spare wheel on the 3500 Sprinter-based vehicles with the dual rear wheels is very heavy. If you are not
confident you can handle the weight it would be better to have a technician perform a wheel change.
The alloy wheels on the Roadtrek use different lug nuts than the steel spare. There is an adapter in the tire change
tool set which will fit these larger lug nuts and the standard lug nut wrench. There is also a set of lug nuts stored with the
jack and lug nut wrench - use these, NOT the ones that held the alloy wheel on, to mount your steel spare wheel.
© 2015 by Roadtrek, Inc.
Spare Tire Storage
75
• DO NOT jack up the vehicle before you remove the spare tire. You need the vehicle flat on the ground with the front tires
chocked and the emergency brake securely applied to remove the spare tire.
• Locate the jack handle (three pieces of steel tubing in the pouch) and the "banana" lever in the jack compartment.
• Locate the 19 mm - 3/4 inch wrench which came in the white box of Roadtrek accessories. Roadtrek recommends you keep
this in the glovebox when not in use so that it will be readily available.
Jack handle pouch and "banana" lever
ready to assemble
Assembled lever to lower spare tire
carrier
• Connect the three pieces of the jack handle, and insert the assembled handle into the open end of the "banana" lever.
• Raise and secure the utility bay access door covering the spare tire carrier.
© 2015 by Roadtrek, Inc.
Spare Tire Storage
Lever in place to take the weight off the
bolts
76
Use supplied wrench to loosen nuts 1/2
inch or so
• Hook the crosspiece channel on the other end of the banana lever to the bar across the spare tire carrier, and push down
on the jack handle. Kneeling on the jack handle to secure it, use the wrench to loosen the long nuts on the two long bolts
on either side of the tire carrier about a half inch or so.
© 2015 by Roadtrek, Inc.
Spare Tire Storage
Move bolt to the side once it is loose
77
Lower tire carrier to the ground and
remove tire
• When sufficiently loose, the long bolts will swing to the side out of the slot they normally occupy in the tire carrier. Lower
the tire carrier by lifting the jack handle, and pull the spare tire out.
• Jack up the vehicle using the jack and change the tire. Follow the instructions in the Sprinter manual for proper use.
• Secure the tire carrier by putting the flat tire in it, using the banana lever and jack handle to raise it enough to reattach the
bolts, and tightening the nuts five or six turns after they make contact. You are compressing the tire, so the nuts will not
get tight on the bolts like a metal-to-metal contact will. Repair or replace the flat spare tire at your earliest opportunity, and
reinstall the good spare in the spare tire carrier.
© 2015 by Roadtrek, Inc.
Obtaining Service
78
Obtaining Service
When your Roadtrek needs service, determine if the issue is with the Roadtrek upfits or the Sprinter Chassis.
For Roadtrek upfits, contact your Roadtrek dealer.
For chassis-related issues, contact Mercedes service. Advise the service writer that you have an extended 3500 van, rather
than a "motorhome". Some dealerships do not want to work on motorhomes, but most can service a 1 ton van.
© 2015 by Roadtrek, Inc.
Specifications
79
Specifications
For general chassis specifications, please refer to the Mercedes manual. For specifications relating to your vehicle, including
occupancy, weight rating, tire size, inflation, and so on refer to the sticker on the driver's side B pillar (right side of the door
frame, near the latch). This specification refers to the Roadtrek upfits.
Roadtrek upfits only
Total fresh water capacity (includes water heater) 36 gallons/ 136 liters
Fresh water tank capacity
33.5 gallons/ 127 liters
Gray water tank capacity
21 gallons/ 79 liters
Black water tank capacity
10 gallons/ 38 liters
Battery type
AGM, maintenance free
Battery Capacity
1600 amp hours
Water heater capacity
2.5 gallons/ 9.4 liters
Furnace
20,000 BTUs/hour
Refrigerator
2-way (12VDC, 120VAC)
Air Conditioner
11,000 BTUs/hour
© 2015 by Roadtrek, Inc.
Warranty
80
Warranty
Chassis Manufacturer's Warranty
The automotive chassis is warranteed by Mercedes Benz of North America. Please refer to the Mercedes Warranty Information
booklet for details.
All automotive service, maintenance and repairs are to be performed by any Mercedes dealer. See the Mercedes Warranty
Information booklet for details. Such items are not warranted by Roadtrek. Roadtrek will pay for the removal and
reinstallation of motorhome components necessary to perform automotive recalls and warranty for the duration of the
original Manufacturer's warranty. After this period such costs are considered to be inherent in the ownership of a motorhome
and Roadtrek will not pay for the removal and reinstallation of motorhome components necessary to perform automotive
service or maintenance.
Roadtrek Motorhomes Six Year Peace of Mind Warranty
Roadtrek Motorhomes warrants to the Purchaser that the Motohome is free from defects in material and workmanship on the
portion manufactured by Roadtrek Motorhomes, under normal use and service, for six (6) years, from date of purchase by the
first Purchaser or the date the Motorhome was first put into service (for example, as a demo or rental), whichever is earlier.
This warranty shall be fulfilled at a Roadtrek Motorhomes Dealer or authorized Roadtrek repair facility. For in transit
emergency repairs, you may choose to deal with a non-authorized RV service facility. However all warranty repairs at
non-authorized RV service facilities must be preauthorized by Roadtrek Motorhomes. Roadtrek Motorhomes will, at its option,
replace or repair free of charge (including related labor) any defective part, about which the Purchaser shall notify their
Roadtrek Dealer within the warranty period. The obligation of Roadtrek Motorhomes under this warranty is expressly limited
to such replacement or repair.
The provisions of this limited warranty shall not apply to the following:
1. Accident.
2. Unauthorized repairs or alterations.
3. Normal maintenance.
4. Changes made to other units manufactured after this Motorhome was manufactured. (This is not an engineer upgrade
warranty.)
© 2015 by Roadtrek, Inc.
Warranty
81
5. Incidental damages connected with the failure of the Motorhome such as lost time, inconvenience, loss of use of the
Motorhome, cost of rental cars, gasoline, telephone, travel or lodging.
6. Damages caused by environmental factors including, but not limited to, hailstorms, tornadoes, sandstorms, stone chips,
lightning, floods, earthquakes, airborne fallout, chemicals, tree sap, ocean spray, road hazards.
7. Motorhome that has been declared a total loss by an insurance company (demolished) or a Motorhome whose title
indicates that it is designated as "salvage", "junk", or "rebuilt" or words of similar impact.
8. There will be no allowance for emergency road repair, towing, labor, meals accommodations, etc. Such will not be
accepted if claimed under warranty.
9. Aluminum wheels are not warranted against corrosion that is a result of road salt, sea salt, cleaning chemicals or harsh
driving conditions.
10. Warranty is voided if the EcoTrek batteries are tampered with, opened, or modified in any way, including attempts to
change the Battery Management System programming or setpoints.
11. Warranty is voided if the EcoTrek batteries are allowed to remain in a dicharged condition for extensive periods.
The provisions of this limited warranty shall not apply to deterioration due to wear and exposure beyond the following
limitations:
1. For ninety (90) days after the "QualityCare" Pre-Delivery Report is completed by the dealer for appliance adjustments,
door latch adjustments, light bulbs, fuses, battery in the smoke detector and window screens. After 90 days these items
are considered part of normal maintenance.
Roadtrek Motorhomes Limited Motorhome Warranty is void unless the following conditions are adhered to:
1. Warranty Card on Motorhome must be completed by the Dealer and faxed to Roadtrek Motorhomes within 48 hours of
date of retail delivery. When warranty applications are made and Warranty Card is not on file at Roadtrek Motorhomes,
reimbursement of claim will be delayed until proof of original purchase is submitted to Roadtrek Motorhomes.
2. Warranty claims and authorization requests should be submitted using the Electronic Warranty Management system found
on the Dealer Website. Including the last 8 digits of the Vehicle Identification Number (V.I.N.) and odometer reading. All
claims must be submitted within 30 days of the date of repair.
3. Warranty work that will exceed $200 must first be authorized by Roadtrek Motorhomes before proceeding with such work.
The authorization number issued by Roadtrek Motorhomes must be noted on the warranty claim. See item #2 above.
4. Roadtrek Motorhomes reserves the right to inspect defective parts that have been replaced under warranty. Dealer is
expected to hold selected parts for a period of not to exceed 60 days. (See below).
5. Only parts and accessories and other material, available through Roadtrek Motorhomes are to be used in the performance
of warranty service. Express shipping costs are not covered by this warranty policy.
© 2015 by Roadtrek, Inc.
Warranty
82
6. Warranty repairs performed a second time by a Dealer (due to incorrect or inadequate diagnosis, improper assembly or
repair, or lack of proper testing when the original warranty repair was performed) are considered as shop comebacks and
are not reimbursable. Costs of such repairs must be adsorbed by the Dealer.
7. Purchasers are responsible for presenting their motorhome to a Roadtrek Dealer as soon as problem exists. The warranty
repairs should be completed in a reasonable amount of time from date of authorization.
This limited warranty is expressly in lieu of any other expressed or implied warranty, including any implied warranty of
merchantability or fitness for a particular purpose and of any other obligations or liabilities on Roadtrek Motorhomes which
neither assumes nor authorizes any other person to assume for it any other liability in connection with motorhome
manufactured by it.
Appliance Warranty
The following are not initially warranted by Roadtrek Motorhomes, but are covered by individual warranties offered by their
respective manufacturers to which terms both Purchaser and Dealer must comply:
• air conditioner
• electrical inverter/charger
• electronic equipment (TV, DVD player, etc.)
• furnace or other heating system
• microwave oven
• refrigerator
• stove
• toilet
• water pump
• macerator
• water heater.
The 6 year Roadtrek warranty coverage will take over the warranty once the original manufacturer warranties
expire for the remainder of the 6 year period from the date of original purchase.
While still within the terms of the appliance warranty Purchaser and/or Dealer are required to deal directly with the nearest
service center for such manufactured components and abide by the warranty policy as allowed by such component
manufacturers.
© 2015 by Roadtrek, Inc.
Warranty
83
AGM Battery Warranty
Batteries are warranted by the battery manufacturer for one year from the "In Service Date" of the Roadtrek.
1. Warranty is voided if AGM batteries are tampered with, topped off with distilled water or allowed to sulfate or freeze due to
lack of charge.
Diesel Particle Filter Warranty
For diesel vehicles equipped with the underhood generator (GU Option) Roadtrek will warranty the performance of the Diesel
Particle Filter for 6 years. Contact Roadtrek directly for servicing instructions.
Warranty Intent
The intent of this extended warranty is to ensure the new owner of a Roadtrek that it is worry free from manufacturer caused
defects (excluding the chassis) for the first six (6) years of use. Roadtrek owners can feel comfortable that Roadtrek is fully
behind them for six (6) years, including the EcoTrek Batteries!!!
© 2015 by Roadtrek, Inc.
Registration
84
Registration
Please send this form in or email the information to [email protected] [1] when you purchase your Roadtrek.
© 2015 by Roadtrek, Inc.
Registration
85
References
[1] mailto:sales@roadtrek. com
© 2015 by Roadtrek, Inc.
Regulatory Notices
86
Regulatory Notices
If you believe that your vehicle has a defect which could cause a crash or could cause injury or death, you should
immediately inform the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration, (NHTSA) in addition to notifying Roadtrek
Motorhomes.
If NHTSA receives similar complaints, it may open an investigation, and if it finds that a safety defect exists in a group of
vehicles, it may order a recall and remedy campaign. However, NHTSA cannot become involved in individual problems
between you, your dealer, and/or Roadtrek Motor Homes.
To contact NHTSA, you may call the Auto Safety Hotline toll-free at 1-888-327-4236, (or 366-0123 in Washington, DC area) or
write to:
NHTSA
U.S. Department of Transportation
Washington, DC 20590
You can also obtain other information about motor vehicle safety from the Hotline.
© 2015 by Roadtrek, Inc.
FAQ:Electrical System
87
FAQ:Electrical System
Electricity
Battery Bank
The heart of the E-Trek electrical system is the battery bank. The eight AGM (absorbed glass mat) batteries require no
maintenance, and store electrical power created by the solar panel, engine generator, vehicle alternator, and shore power for
future use. When driving the vehicle, the engine generator will charge your batteries so that you will arrive at your camping
location with fully charged batteries. As you use power, the batteries will be depleted. The solar panel continuously charges
the batteries under daylight conditions, and will extend the time between recharges, but typical electrical usage levels are
greater than the panel will produce. When your battery indicator level gets low, or if you hear the inverter low voltage audible
alarm, idle the engine to allow the engine generator to recharge the coach and chassis batteries. Typically, 30-40 minutes will
restore a moderately depleted battery bank to an adequately charged condition. In instances when the batteries are depleted
further, such as when running the air conditioner for extended periods, you may need to idle the engine for longer periods.
How Long to Charge
When running the inverter, a minimum battery charge will be preserved by a "power save" setting in the inverter that emits a
small alarm telling you to charge the batteries. From the point of that alarm, assuming you are not running a lot of appliances
at the same time, you can charge your batteries to the point that will allow you to return to normal usage in 30-40 minutes
(do not stop charging at that point). If you run the batteries right down with the inverter off, you may need to charge them for
up to 2 hours before you can return to normal use.
Multiple Charging Sources and Charge Times
The battery system holds a theoretical maximum of 9600 watt-hours of power, and how long a battery charge lasts depends
on what all you are using to recharge and what you are running. If you run nothing in the coach you can recharge with just
the engine alternator/generators at a rate of up to 3500 watts per hr. If you are plugged in to a 110 volt electrical outlet, you
© 2015 by Roadtrek, Inc.
FAQ:Electrical System
88
can also be adding another 1400 watts an hour. The solar panels will also be adding up to 245 watts per hour depending on
the amount of light available to them. As you can see there are many variables and the choices are yours depending on what
you want or need to do. Everything you run in the coach or attached to it will reduce the number of watts going into the
batteries. Information on their consumption is usually available on the backs or bottom of most electrical
equipment/appliances.
Energy Hogs on your E-Trek
Major electricity consumers are the air conditioner, the convection oven, and the instant hot water dispenser. All of these use
more than 1000 watts, so ongoing operation of them, especially in combination, will deplete your battery state of charge. The
hot water dispenser has an on-off switch on the cabinet front behind the driver's side second row captain's seat. Turning it off
when not in use unless driving or plugged into shore power will extend your ability to go longer between recharges when
running the air conditioner or using other electrical appliances.
© 2015 by Roadtrek, Inc.
HOWTO: Monitor Panel
89
HOWTO: Monitor Panel
Location
The monitor panel is located inside the side door, above the rear
captain's seat. To the left of the main monitor panel is the
inverter switch.
Power Sources
The monitor panel controls two separate power sources; 12 volt
DC power from the batteries, solar panels, and engine generator,
and 120 volt AC power from the inverter and shore power.
12 Volt DC Power
The power to the 12 volt DC outlets and appliances is controlled
by the battery disconnect switch to the lower left.
Monitor Panel
© 2015 by Roadtrek, Inc.
HOWTO: Monitor Panel
90
The battery disconnect switch turns the coach battery power off
and on. When off, it prevents your coach batteries from being
drained while the Roadtrek is not in use. The lights, the water
pump, the fan, the refrigerator, etc. - all need 12 volt power from
the batteries. If something electrical in your Roadtrek doesn't
work, the first thing to check is to make sure the battery
disconnect switch is on.
The battery disconnect switch is on the bottom left corner of the
monitor panel. To its immediate right is a blue indicator light
which illuminates when the switch is on to show you that your
batteries are supplying power to the coach.
You will hear a "clunk" as the battery disconnect switch is
pressed - this is a big relay connecting the coach batteries to the
electrical loads.
If you hear a clunk-clunk, or nothing at all, it's possible that your
batteries are depleted to the point where they cannot drive the
Battery disconnect switch
relay. Take steps to charge your batteries, such as starting the
vehicle engine, and try again after building the batteries up to a charge level where they will power the relay.
© 2015 by Roadtrek, Inc.
HOWTO: Monitor Panel
91
Inverter
Inverter Switch
Inverter power indicator light location
The inverter provides 120 volt AC (household current) to the 120 volt appliances and wall outlets.
The switch has three positions: off in the middle position, power save auto in the top position, and power save off in the
bottom position.
In the power save auto setting, when you're not using anything with 120 volt power, the inverter will put itself to sleep. In this
mode, it still uses a small amount of power. If you turn on a 120 volt appliance, it senses a load and will come back on in
about 20 seconds. If you select power save auto you'll reduce the electricity it takes to keep the inverter powered, and your
batteries will require less recharging.
Pressing the bottom of the switch selects power save off. When this setting is selected, the inverter will be on continuously.
On the right side of the inverter switch are three lights. There is a shore power indicator light to show you the system that is
receiving shore power. There is also a battery charging indicator light to tell you when the batteries are being charged by
shore power. The third light will alert you to any inverter error messages, which are displayed on the inverter display panel.
Your refrigerator will run on either 12 volt battery power or 120 volt inverter power, but will use less electricity if the inverter
switch is off because of the conversion loss. If all you're running is your refrigerator, such as when you retire at night, turn the
inverter off and save battery power.
© 2015 by Roadtrek, Inc.
HOWTO: Monitor Panel
92
Other Switches
Patio Light
On the control panel, the top left switch is the patio lights switch. Press the top of the button to turn the lights on, and the
bottom to turn them off. These are LED lights and use very little power.
Patio light switch
Water pump switch
Water Pump Switch
The button to the right of the patio light switch is the water pump switch. It should be on only when you have water in the
fresh water tanks and wish to use the sinks, showers, or toilet. The pump should not be run without water. As with the patio
light switch, pressing the top of the button turns the pump on, and pressing the bottom turns it off. Both of these switches
light up to let you know they are on.
© 2015 by Roadtrek, Inc.
HOWTO: Monitor Panel
93
Tank Levels and Battery Charge
Indicators
To the right of the control switches are the indicator lights for
the battery charge level, the fresh water tank level, and the
black and gray water tank levels. Press the button for each to
see the display. These will give you an approximate reading, to
the nearest third, of how much is in each tank.
Roadtrek recommends that you keep a small amount of water in
your gray and black tanks at all times. This will reduce the
likelihood of material sticking to the inside of the tank.
The four indicator lights for the battery are low, fair, good, and
charging. Battery voltage dips under load; the greater the load
the greater the voltage dip. A battery under heavy load will show
much lower state than one at rest.
Tank indicators
© 2015 by Roadtrek, Inc.
HOWTO: Setting Up Your Campsite
94
HOWTO: Setting Up Your Campsite
What Do You Need To Hook Up?
In a Roadtrek, the answer to this question is - a lot less than you think. Rather than slog through the setup ordeal that Class
As and fifth wheels and other trailers go through, Class Bs are much more nimble. We travel light and can set up and pack up
in minutes. Let's look at the differences in these different types of units and see why.
Most big rigs and trailers don't really have a self-contained
philosophy - they're basically like sticks and bricks homes on
wheels, which require what campgrounds call "full hookups"
(electricity, water, and sewer connections at each campsite) to
function. Roadtreks have big fresh water and holding tanks that
the other types of RVs lack, so it's usually easier just to plug into
the electricity, and not bother with the water and sewer
hookups. This makes your hookup procedure a five minute
process - park in a level spot and plug in. Maybe hook up the
cable TV, too, if they have it at the campsite, but that's about it.
It's a different philosophy because most large RVs plunk down
and don't move once they get to a campsite. They have a towed
vehicle - or the truck they haul their trailer with - to take short
trips around the area. Since you don't have a tow vehicle like
the big rigs, you need to be able to head out to the store or go
sightseeing in your Roadtrek, so the less elaborate the set-up
and pack-up procedures, the better.
Full hookups - electric, water, and sewer - plus lots of
company
© 2015 by Roadtrek, Inc.
HOWTO: Setting Up Your Campsite
95
Connected Fresh Water vs. Using your Tanks
There's no real advantage to leaving the water hooked up all the
time - it's easier just to get your hose out and fill your tanks, and
then put the hose away. No leaks, no hose to trip over, no need
to disassemble and store all that stuff when it's time to hit the
road again. In a campground with shower facilities, your water
supply will last for days, and when it runs out you just get the
hose back out, fill it up again, and you're ready for another few
days.
Sewer Hookup vs. Dumping
The advantage of using your tanks for fresh water over a more
permanent water hookup is that you're automatically reminded
of when your waste water tanks are full. When you're close to
running out of fresh water, that means it's time to dump your
wastewater tanks. With a more permanent hookup, the reminder
Filling your tanks
may be waste water backing up in your sink or toilet, which is
not nearly as pleasant. The tank level indicators only tell you to the nearest third what your tank levels are.
Since you have a waste water discharge pump, the big rig's semi-permanent giant sewer hose on an inclined pathway to the
dump won't work for you - you have to run the pump anyway, so why not just dispense with all that unsightly and potentially
hazardous plumbing? Full hookup sites have a handy sewer dump right at your campsite. When your fresh water runs low,
refill your fresh water tanks, dump your waste water holding tanks, and you're good to go, plus you can drive off anytime
merely by stowing your electrical cord.
© 2015 by Roadtrek, Inc.
HOWTO: Setting Up Your Campsite
96
Simplify, Simplify
Campgrounds capitalize on the helplessness of
non-self-contained RVs by charging a premium for full
hookup sites. You aren't helpless. With an electric-only
hookup, you drive a short distance to the campground's
fresh water source and waste water dump every few
days. Do it on the way to the store or other trip that
you're going to take anyway, and it's no bother. In
addition to saving money, you'll also have a choice of
more campsites, since not all of them have full hookups,
or the even better choice of no campsite at all to take
advantage of the E-Trek's extended boondocking
capability. You can stay out there until you run out of
groceries if you want.
Freedom from hookups also opens up a whole range of
Why drive all the way back to town just to smell someone
national and provincial forest campgrounds with limited
else's woodsmoke? Camp where you are.
or no hookups to you. There is also dispersed camping in
national forests and crown lands and other boondocking
options, where you find your own campsite. There are rules for where you can and can't boondock, so check the forest
websites or drop in at the ranger station for information. Once you're out there, don't look around for those big rigs who are
dependent on hookups - they're all back in town. It's just you and nature, with the occasional backpacker.
© 2015 by Roadtrek, Inc.
HOWTO: Setting Up Your Campsite
97
Leveling your Roadtrek
Roadtreks don't have or need the built-in leveling jacks and stands large
RVs have - it's usually easy enough to move back and forth in your
campsite until you're reasonably level. However, many Roadtrek owners
buy and carry leveling blocks for those places where finding a level spot is
difficult. These are available in most camping supply stores or can be
ordered online. They go under your tires, and can be stacked in various
combinations to lift the low corner or end of your vehicle enough to get
comfortable. Many Roadtrek owners install a small bubble level in an
inconspicuous place visible from the driver's seat to assist with the leveling
process.
How level is level? In general, if it's level enough to be comfortable for you,
it's probably good enough for your plumbing. If you have a choice, it's
better to have the front of the Roadtrek very slightly higher than the back
for air conditioner condensate drainage. If you're not running your air
conditioner, it doesn't matter.
Leveling blocks
© 2015 by Roadtrek, Inc.
HOWTO: Shore Power
98
HOWTO: Shore Power
Connecting To Shore Power
Your Roadtrek has a shore power cord, which is stored beneath the sofa. Plug the large yellow end of this cord into your shore
power connection point directly in front of the driver's side rear wheel in the rear utility bay.
This plug goes in only one way - find the prong with the right angle (L-shaped) on the cord end and on the socket, and align
them. Once the plug is pushed in all the way, turn it slightly clockwise to lock it into place and tighten the black plastic
threaded ring around the outside of the socket.
Power cord stored under sofa
L-shaped prong on plug, and
corresponding L-shaped hole in cord
end
Attached shore power cord
To disconnect, unthread the black plastic ring and rotate the plug slightly counterclockwise to pull it out.
© 2015 by Roadtrek, Inc.
HOWTO: Shore Power
99
Campsite Power Connections
Most RV parks and campgrounds have AC power of various voltages and amperages available at each site. The power will
typically be in a pedestal with a cover that flips up. If you cannot find your power pedestal or you're not sure how to open it,
ask the campground personnel.
50A outlet
30A outlet
© 2015 by Roadtrek, Inc.
HOWTO: Shore Power
100
15A outlet
Breakers
A typical campsite’s power pedestal will have three types of plug-in receptacles: 15 amp, 30 amp and 50 amp. The 15A
receptacle is typically the same as you would find in your home. The 30A and 50A receptacles are specific to the RV industry.
Other receptacles look similar but may not be wired the same. If in doubt, check with campground personnel.
The pedestal will also typically have individual breakers for the 15A, 30A, and 50A services. Many campgrounds turn off
unused breakers so check that the breaker for the plug you will be using is turned on.
Your Roadtrek is equipped with a 30 Amp cord. Most power pedestals have a 30 amp receptacle.
© 2015 by Roadtrek, Inc.
HOWTO: Shore Power
101
15A to 30A adapter
50A to 30A adapter
It is possible that a campground (or perhaps a friend's driveway) will not have a 30A receptable available for your use. You
can purchase a 15A to 30A adapter and connect to an ordinary 15A household outlet.
Be aware that in those situations, you will have limited power compared to a 30A circuit. You will be able to run a single large
appliance at a time; you may need to turn off your air conditioner if you want to use the microwave, for example.
If you exceed the current capacity of the receptacle you may pop the breakers in the pedestal. If this happens, turn off some
appliances and reset the breaker.
It is also possible that you will find a 50A receptacle. Again, you can purchase a 50A to 30A adapter. In this case your power
should not be limited as you will have the full 30 amps available. Although you are connected to a 50A service, you can only
draw 30A; there is no advantage to connecting to a 50A service if a 30A service is available.
© 2015 by Roadtrek, Inc.
HOWTO: Potable Water Use
102
HOWTO: Potable Water Use
Your Roadtrek can operate in either fully self-contained mode, or can be connected to a water supply such as a campsite's
faucet.
The city water connection is in the driver's side center access bay, to the right of the sheet metal housing for the gray and
black valve handles and TV connection. Unscrew the white plastic protective cap and connect your clean hose to the water
faucet and to the city connection. Turn the faucet on and check for leaks, tightening the connections as necessary.
Campgrounds and municipalities vary greatly in supplied water pressure. If you're unsure of the water supply, test it
first.
In a typical campground you may see the faucet with a backflow preventer attached. These look similar to a pressure
regulator but do not affect the pressure. The backflow preventor is there to protect the campground. You need the pressure
regulator to protect yourself from excess pressure.
Backflow preventer
Typical water pressure regulator (Owner
supplied)
© 2015 by Roadtrek, Inc.
HOWTO: Potable Water Use
City water fill location
103
Built-in pressure regulator
If you have the words "Pressure Regulator" stamped on your city water connection, you do not need an external
pressure regulator. If in doubt, use an external pressure regulator.
If you have any doubts about a water supply pressure situation, you can always fill your tanks from the water source
using the gravity fill, and use the water pump to supply water from the tanks.
The city water inlet connection is located in the center driver's side compartment, to the right of the sheet metal housing for
the gray and black tank handles and TV connection
Roadtrek recommends that you use a dedicated single purpose potable-water hose. These are usually white in color.
Buy a new one and use it only for filling your tanks and connecting to city water. View any hose lying around a
campground with extreme skepticism, especially it there's a wastewater dump nearby. Large RVs use hoses to flush
their wastewater system.
© 2015 by Roadtrek, Inc.
HOWTO: Potable Water Use
Access to the city water valve, side door
104
City water valve in closed, across-the-line
position
To connect the Roadtrek's water system to an outside source:
• Turn the water pump off.
• To run the pump, close the city water valve. To do this, remove the wood access panel with the round hole in it on the left
side of the side door step. The city water valve is inside the exposed opening. Turn the handle vertically to the
across-the-line position (see photos above).
• Close all interior faucets.
• Flush old water and any contaminants out of the water supply faucet.
• Connect your fresh water hose to the faucet.
• Attach your fresh water hose to the city water connection.
• Slowly open the faucet of the city water source.
• The city water connection by-passes the water pump and fresh water tank. Therefore, the use of these items is not
necessary when connected directly to an external water source. Leave your water pump turned off when connected to city
water.
© 2015 by Roadtrek, Inc.
HOWTO: Potable Water Use
105
To disconnect the city water connection:
• Turn off the external water source.
• Open a faucet to relieve the pressure in the system. Failure to
do so will not damage your vehicle, but may result in an
unexpected shower when you disconnect the hose. Go inside
and use the galley sink faucet.
• Make sure the the city water valve is closed (handle across
the line).
• Remove the hose from the city water connection, and replace
the cap on the fill connection.
• Disconnect the hose from the supply faucet and stow it inside
your vehicle. Connecting the ends is a handy way to prevent
dirt or other contaminants from entering the hose while
stored, and residual water from leaking out.
If you hear your pump running constantly, and water
Hose connected
pressure is low inside the vehicle after disconnecting from
an external water source, it is because you have not
properly positioned the city water valve. Make sure the
black plastic handle is perpendicular to (across) the water line when your water system is in self-contained mode.
© 2015 by Roadtrek, Inc.
HOWTO: Waste Water Dumping
106
HOWTO: Waste Water Dumping
Wastewater storage and dumping
Your house is permanently connected to your septic system or a municipal sewer; you don't have to worry about the
wastewater you generate because gravity takes it away. Your Roadtrek doesn't have that connection, and has to hold any
wastewater until you have the opportunity to dump it at an approved dump station.
Most municipalities have severe penalties for improper disposal of human waste, especially into a watershed - fines
can be several thousand dollars, and it's often a felony. Even if it's "just gray water", it will still flunk a coliform bacteria
test because of the common discharge hose, which is difficult to explain to a judge. Never dispose of wastewater unless
you're sure you are at an approved dump station.
Tanks
Your vehicle is equipped with a gray holding tank and a black holding tank. The gray tank holds the sink and shower water.
The black tank holds the toilet waste. As a result the black tank is a lot nastier than the gray tank.
Waste Water Discharge Pump
Your Roadtrek is equipped with a waste water disposal pump to make dumping your tanks easier and cleaner. The macerator
in this pump grinds up any solids in the system and pumps the resulting wastewater out to the dump station.
Do not throw any paper towels, personal wipes, rags, baby wipes, tampons, hairballs, etc. into the toilet. The
macerator is not capable of handling these types of solids and will jam or be damaged. Use toilet paper intended for RVs
or septic systems.
If in doubt, take a tissue, and leave it in a glass of water. Stir with a spoon a couple of times. If it falls apart into a
gooey slurry after a few minutes it`s safe for your tank. If it stays together, swells up, or clumps into a solid mass, it`s
not safe and should be disposed of in the trash and not down the toilet.
© 2015 by Roadtrek, Inc.
HOWTO: Waste Water Dumping
107
If possible, you want to dump the tanks after driving as the movement of the vehicle will have sloshed the water in
the tanks, loosening any solids.
Make sure the tanks are as full as possible before dumping - you may wish to use a hose or bucket to add water to
the black water tank through the toilet if it is less than 1/2 full.
You should dump the black tank first, then the gray tank. The water in the gray tank is considerably cleaner, and will
rinse any remaining solids from the hose and the macerator. You should dump both tanks in sequence if possible.
Dumping the tanks
Sprinter side compartments
210 Popular side compartment
• Open the compartment doors or drawer behind the driver. This will expose the green waste water discharge hose and
controls.
Depending on your model, your hose and dump valve location may look a bit different. Take the time to identify all of
the components before you start.
© 2015 by Roadtrek, Inc.
HOWTO: Waste Water Dumping
108
• Open the driver’s door and locate the waste water pump switch. It is a red pushbutton located on the driver's seat base or
on the B pillar.
Macerator button on base of driver's seat
Macerator button on the B pillar behind
driver
• Remove the waste water discharge hose from storage by pulling it straight out far enough to reach the dump.
• Insert the waste water discharge hose outlet into the dump station waste receptacle.
• Open the valve on the end of the sewage discharge hose by turning the black plastic handle to align with the hose.
© 2015 by Roadtrek, Inc.
HOWTO: Waste Water Dumping
Extending the hose
109
Open the dump hose valve
• There are two ways to secure the hose in the dump station waste receptacle four inch pipe. In the white box that came
with your Roadtrek there is a rubber doughnut, which goes over the discharge nozzle and can be wedged into the waste
receptacle to hold the waste water discharge hose in place. Some RV parks require you to use a doughnut. If you trust
gravity more than friction, or don't want to store the doughnut between uses, use a rock to weight the hose down. Either
way, make sure the hose doesn't get loose when you turn the pump on.
The discharge stream is forceful and will knock the hose out of the drain if you do not weight it down or secure it in
the drain with the doughnut. It is much easier and more sanitary to secure it before turning the pump on than it is to
chase it around afterwards.
© 2015 by Roadtrek, Inc.
HOWTO: Waste Water Dumping
Rubber doughnut installed on nozzle
110
Rock used as weight to hold the hose
• Push the jogger handle in and turn it to loosen any materials in the macerator. Pull the jogger handle out.
• Open the black water tank gate valve by pulling the black handle out. It will come out approximately three inches (8 cm)
and stop.
• Press and hold the waste water pump button until the tank is empty.
• Close the black water tank valve by pushing in on the handle.
• Open the grey water tank gate valve by pulling the grey handle out. It will come out approximately 1 1/2 inches (4 cm) and
stop.
• Press and hold the waste water pump red button until the grey waste tank is empty.
• Close the gray tank valve by pushing it back in to the original position.
© 2015 by Roadtrek, Inc.
HOWTO: Waste Water Dumping
Open the black valve
111
Open the gray valve
Always dump the black tank first and the gray tank second. The graywater will help flush any remaining solids from
the dump hose. If you wish to rinse the system, pour water down the toilet and sink, and dump again.
• Close the discharge valve on the end of the waste water hose.
• Rinse off the dump area and the dump hose.
• Return the waste water hose to its storage compartment by pushing the green hose back onto the reel.
• Add about ½ gallon of fresh water to the black tank. While you`re doing this, add a packet of black holding tank chemicals
to the tank.
Do not toss the packet into the toilet, even if it claims to be `dissolvable`. It may not be dissolvable enough for the
macerator. Tear open the packet and pour the contents into the black tank, and dispose of the packet in the trash. The
contents of the powder packets can be irritating to your eyes and nose, so hold the packet low to the bowl and try to
pour directly into the tank.
The waste water discharge pump will be damaged if allowed to operate dry for any length of time. Turn off the pump
as soon as the solid stream of liquid begins to sputter, and the pump's sound changes.
© 2015 by Roadtrek, Inc.
HOWTO: Waste Water Dumping
112
Jammed waste water pump
Sprinter macerator manual crank knob
Chevy macerator
manual crank knob
If the waste water discharge pump stops while you are pushing the button, it's jammed. Something has gotten caught up in
the blades. Release the button to stop the pump.
• Locate the manual waste water pump knob.
• Push in on the knob and turn clockwise; you will feel the knob engage the pump shaft.
• Turn the knob first in one direction and then the other to loosen the obstruction.
• Once the obstruction is loose, continue dumping.
© 2015 by Roadtrek, Inc.
HOWTO: Cable and TV Reception
113
HOWTO: Cable and TV Reception
Your Roadtrek comes with a home theatre system. This consists of a TV, a DVD player, the speaker system and the radio in
the dash, along with a rooftop TV antenna and a cable TV connection.
The TV and home theatre system are located in the rear on the passenger side. The Cable TV/Antenna switch and power
injector for the built-in antenna are in the cabinet just above the DVD player.
The TV and the home theatre system must be on to use the system. Both the television and the DVD player use 120 volt
current, so the inverter, generator, or shore power must be used. Refer to the Electrical System for instructions on 120 volt
AC power.
The TV and DVD are supplied with remote controls.
The home theatre system has inputs for media devices. Read the Owner's manual for full details.
TV Bracket release
DVD player
The TV is stowed against the wall on a hinged bracket. The bracket is secured with a large thumbscrew. Turn the thumbscrew
horizontally to release the bracket and vertically to secure the bracket to the wall.
Once released, you can swing the TV to a comfortable viewing position.
Always stow the TV with the bracket secured to the wall for travel.
© 2015 by Roadtrek, Inc.
HOWTO: Cable and TV Reception
TV antenna switch
114
TV in stowed position, with cover
Over-the-air TV
© 2015 by Roadtrek, Inc.
HOWTO: Cable and TV Reception
115
Antenna/cable AB switch set for antenna
(top button)
To watch TV using the Roadtrek rooftop antenna:
• Have 120 volt AC power available (inverter on OR shore power plugged in)
• Turn on TV and home theatre system
• Set the speaker selector to "SURROUND"
• Set the antenna/cable TV switch to Antenna by pressing small white button on the panel
DVD
To watch a DVD:
• Have 120 volt AC power available (inverter on OR shore power plugged in)
• Turn on TV and home theatre system
• Set the speaker selector to "SURROUND"
© 2015 by Roadtrek, Inc.
HOWTO: Cable and TV Reception
116
Cable TV
To connect your Roadtrek to cable TV at a campsite or even in your driveway, first locate the Roadtrek's cable TV connection.
It is behind the middle utility bay door on the bottom of the driver's side of the vehicle, just to the right of the waste water
hose and handles, and has a square gray plastic cover about 3 cm on each side which is hinged at the side, which opens to
expose the barrel connector the cable hooks to.
Cable TV connection location
Coaxial TV connecting wire with screw-on
end
You need a length of coaxial TV cable to reach from the cable TV outlet to your Roadtrek's connection point. These are sold in
electronic supply and camping supply stores and come in lengths of 25, 50, and 100 feet. The cable is typically sold as
RG-59U or RG-6 with F-type connectors. The RG-6 is preferable but either will work.
Screw the cable onto the barrel connectors at each end.
© 2015 by Roadtrek, Inc.
HOWTO: Cable and TV Reception
TV cable connected
117
Rear speaker switch
Push the white button on the panel to switch between cable and antenna.
Speaker Switch
The speaker switch is located in the same cabinet as the Cable/Antenna switch. You can select Surround, Off, or Automotive.
In the Surround position, the rear speakers (the speakers above the bed) will work with the TV/home theatre system. In the
Off position the speakers are off. In the Automotive position, the speakers are connected to the dash radio.
© 2015 by Roadtrek, Inc.
HOWTO: Water System Winterizing
118
HOWTO: Water System Winterizing
Do you really need to winterize?
If your Roadtrek is going to remain heated to comfortable temperatures, and the temperatures during the day are
well above freezing (above 40 deg. F or above 4 deg. C) and the forecast is for temperatures just below freezing for a
few hours at night with calm winds, then you don`t need to winterize. The heat in your Roadtrek is enough to keep the
lines from freezing.
If the forecast is for extended cold periods, with daytime temperatures at or below freezing, if you`re not heating
your Roadtrek, or if you expect sustained winds and the roads and ground is already frozen, you need to winterize.
As always, you are final judge and you need to do what is comfortable and makes you feel good. If you are not
comfortable with leaving water in your lines when it gets cold, and you will sleep better, go ahead and winterize.
© 2015 by Roadtrek, Inc.
HOWTO: Water System Winterizing
119
Winterizing the E-Trek
Typical non-toxic RV
antifreeze
Fresh water tank drain valve
You will need:
1. four gallons of pink RV antifreeze
2. Replacement filter for the hot water dispenser
3. A place to dump a small amount of water and non-toxic antifreeze
• Take your vehicle to a wastewater dump location, and dump and rinse your black and gray water tanks completely.
• Turn off the water pump.
• Empty the fresh water tanks by opening the locating the valve under the passenger side front door running board, just
behind the front wheel. This valve is not visible from the side of the E-Trek, and will require you to get down and look
underneath the front passenger door step. The valve has a black plastic handle which points across the water line when
closed, and along the line when open. Open this valve and allow the fresh water in the tank to drain out onto the ground.
© 2015 by Roadtrek, Inc.
HOWTO: Water System Winterizing
120
• Open the sliding side door, remove the wood panel, and open
the city water valve. Turn this valve so that the black plastic
handle is pointed in the same direction as the water line.
• Allow air to enter the system by opening the galley faucet and
the hot and cold bathroom sink faucets. This will drain the
lines from these faucets to the water pump.
• Press and hold the hot and cold handles on the instant hot
water dispenser until no more water comes out.
• Close the city water valve by turning it 90 degrees so that the
black plastic handle is across the water line.
• Close the galley sink and bathroom sink faucets.
• Close the fresh water tanks drain under the passenger side
front door running board (black handle should be
perpendicular to water line).
City water valve (shown closed)
© 2015 by Roadtrek, Inc.
HOWTO: Water System Winterizing
• Locate the Webasto diesel-fueled hot water unit underneath
the vehicle. It is immediately behind the center of the rear
axle (the differential). There are two air ducts on the front side
of the unit, near the top. There are also two white water lines
coming rearward from the front of the Roadtrek, one on each
side of the centerline. Just before these lines get to the
Webasto unit, there is a transverse white hose connecting
them, with a valve on it. This is the shunt valve. To winterize,
you open the shunt valve, and close the two valves on the hot
and cold lines going into the Webasto BETWEEN THE SHUNT
(TRANSVERSE) LINE AND THE WEBASTO UNIT. There may be
other valves on the hot and cold lines forward of the
transverse white hose connecting the two water lines - DO
NOT TURN THESE VALVES. (see photos right and below). The
valve on the line between the transverse line and the Webasto
unit leading to the blue overpressure relief valve is the cold
side bypass valve. Turn all three valves 90 degrees so the
shunt valve handle is pointed along the water line (open) and
the cold and hot line valve handles are across the line
(closed).
121
Wide view of the valves on the water lines forward of
the Webasto unit in normal, non-winterized mode. The
two valves (red arrows) forward (left) of the shunt valve
(green arrow) are to be left open whether the system is
winterized or not. The hot (pink arrow) and cold (purple
arrow) valves between the transverse shunt line and the
Webasto unit are open normally, closed when
winterized. The shunt valve is closed normally, open
when winterized.
© 2015 by Roadtrek, Inc.
HOWTO: Water System Winterizing
Webasto line valves in normal operating
position. Green arrow means valve is
open, red closed.
122
Webasto line valves in bypass position.
Green arrow means valve is open, red
closed. Front of vehicle is to the upper
left.
• Open the passenger side front door, remove the orange plug from the fresh water fill in the doorsill, and pour two and a
half gallons of RV water system antifreeze into the fill port, using a funnel. You will need a the remaining antifreeze for the
drains and wastewater system, so purchase four to complete the winterization process.
© 2015 by Roadtrek, Inc.
HOWTO: Water System Winterizing
123
• Turn off the breaker in the 120 volt circuit breaker box which powers the instant hot
water heater.
• Turn on the water pump.
• Turn on the cold water in the galley sink until pink RV antifreeze emerges from the
faucet. Close the faucet.
• Press the toilet flush pedal until pink antifreeze comes out.
• Turn on the bathroom sink cold water faucet until pink RV antifreeze emerges from the
faucet. Close the faucet.
• Press and hold the cold handle on the instant hot water dispenser until undiluted pink
RV antifreeze emerges from the faucet. Then do the same thing with the hot handle.
You will be filling the hot water reservoir with antifreeze, which takes approximately a
gallon, so this may take some time.
• Open the city water valve for about 60 seconds to flush the water fill line with
antifreeze.
• Turn the water pump off. Open a faucet to relieve pressure.
Water tank fill location
• In the cabinet under the convection oven there is a water filter for the instant hot water
dispenser. After running antifreeze through the system, twist and remove this filter. Empty the contents of this filter into
the sink, then reinstall the old filter. Buy a new filter to have on hand for dewinterizing in the spring, but do NOT install it
until you have purged all the antifreeze from the system. This filter should be replaced annually, so it's most convenient to
replace it at the time of dewinterizing.
© 2015 by Roadtrek, Inc.
HOWTO: Water System Winterizing
Webasto control
124
Instant hot water filter
• Locate the Webasto unit control on the cabinet face behind the television. Turn the left knob to the dump position (all the
way counterclockwise). Open the galley sink hot water faucet to allow air into the hot water system. It will take
approximately 10 to 15 minutes for the unit to drain completely. The Webasto unit will reset after 90 minutes to close the
dump valve.
• Turn on the water pump. Open the galley sink hot water faucet until antifreeze emerges. Do the same for the bathroom
sink.
• Pour a half gallon of antifreeze down the sink into the gray water tank. This will be used to winterize the waste water
disposal pump.
• Empty the black water tank by flipping up the front and middle flaps along the bottom of the driver's side, extending and
weighting down the waste water discharge hose, opening the valve at the end of the waste water discharge hose, opening
the black water tank valve by pulling the black handle, pressing the red button on the side of the driver's seat pedestal
until no more water is discharged from the waste water discharge hose, and closing the black water tank valve. Either do
this at a dump station or catch the discharge and dispose of it properly - it may contain debris from the black water tank.
• Open the gray water tank valve, press the red button again until no more water is discharged from the waste water
discharge hose, close the gray water tank valve, and replace the waste water discharge hose. If you have emptied your
gray and black water tanks before starting the winterization process, you should only get a small amount of water and
antifreeze out of the hose.
© 2015 by Roadtrek, Inc.
HOWTO: Water System Winterizing
125
• Divide the remaining antifreeze equally between the shower drain, the bathroom sink drain, and the galley sink drain.
• Open the fresh water tank drain line briefly until antifreeze flows out.
• Turn the water pump off.
© 2015 by Roadtrek, Inc.
HOWTO: De-Winterizing
126
HOWTO: De-Winterizing
If you winterized only for a short time (less than a week) you can skip to the second step.
First step
You will need 2 gallons of water and 1 cup of fresh bleach. (Bleach loses its potency over time; always start with bleach that
is less than 6 months old.)
• Mix up two gallons of water and one cup of chlorine bleach. Add to the fresh water fill. Allow a few minutes to drain into
exterior tank.
• This is a good time to get some stuff for spring cleaning of your Roadtrek, so drive around for an hour. Let it sit for a couple
more hours.
• Open drain valve and drain both tanks.
This kills any bacteria in the tanks before you distribute them through the entire water system.
Second step
You will need a good supply of fresh water and a cup of chlorine.
• Mix 1/2 cup of chlorine with 2 gallons of water and pour into fresh water fill.
• Fill fresh water tank about 1/2 full.
• Add 1/2 cup of chlorine and fill fresh water tank about 3/4 full.
• Turn on water pump, circulate through entire system. The water heater is still winterized.
• Run water out of every faucet and shower head until you smell chlorine.
• With the water pump on, open the city water valve, and let the pump push water through the fill line for a minute or so.
© 2015 by Roadtrek, Inc.
HOWTO: De-Winterizing
• Take the Webasto out of bypass mode. Locate the Webasto
diesel-fueled hot water unit underneath the vehicle. It is
immediately behind the center of the rear axle (the
differential). There are two air ducts on the front side of the
unit, near the top. There are also two white water lines coming
rearward from the front of the Roadtrek, one on each side of
the centerline. Just before these lines get to the Webasto unit,
there is a transverse white hose connecting them, with a valve
on it. This is the shunt valve. To de-winterize, you close the
shunt valve, and open the two valves on the hot and cold lines
going into the Webasto BETWEEN THE SHUNT (TRANSVERSE)
LINE AND THE WEBASTO UNIT. There may be other valves on
the hot and cold lines forward of the transverse white hose
connecting the two water lines - DO NOT TURN THESE VALVES.
(see photos right and below). The valve on the line between
the transverse line and the Webasto unit leading to the blue
overpressure relief valve is the cold side bypass valve. Turn all
three valves 90 degrees so the shunt valve handle is across
the water line (closed) and the cold and hot line valve handles
are along the line (open).
127
Wide view of the valves on the water lines forward of
the Webasto unit. The two valves (red arrows) forward
(left) of the shunt valve (green arrow) are to be left
open whether the system is winterized or not. The hot
(pink arrow) and cold (purple arrow) valves between the
transverse shunt line and the Webasto unit are open
normally, closed when winterized.
© 2015 by Roadtrek, Inc.
HOWTO: De-Winterizing
Webasto line valves in bypass position.
Green arrow means valve is open, red
closed. Front of vehicle is to the upper
left.
128
Webasto line valves in normal operating
position. Green arrow means valve is
open, red closed.
• Run water pump until water flows from hot water tap at sink and you smell chlorine. The Webasto has a capacity of 11
liters (almost 3 gallons) so it will be a few minutes before water starts to flow.
• Leave system overnight.
© 2015 by Roadtrek, Inc.
HOWTO: De-Winterizing
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• Run the galley faucet for several minutes. If you smell chlorine, your system is
safe to use. If you do not smell chlorine or your water is foamy, or has a
pungent odor, repeat this step.
• Drain completely, fill fresh water tank with clean water, run all faucets for 2-3
minutes each.
• Hold the instant hot water dispenser taps, both hot and cold, open for several
minutes until the water runs clear and smells like chlorine. The hot water
reservoir has a capacity of about a gallon, so this will take some time. After all
the antifreeze is out of the system, remove the old water filter cartridge in the
cabinet under the microwave, and replace with a fresh filter cartridge.
• To help get rid of the residual chlorine smell, pour a cup of vinegar into the
fresh water tank, fill, let sit for a few hours, run the faucets for a minute or so
apiece, drain the tank to ground, and refill with fresh water.
Instant hot water dispenser filter
© 2015 by Roadtrek, Inc.
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