NORTHWOOD 2004 series Owner's Manual - page 29
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WARNING: TRAVELING AT MODERATE SPEEDS ALLOWS FOR ADVERSE HIGHWAY AND
WIND CONDITIONS. INCREASED SPEED REDUCES STABILITY OF THE TRUCK AND CAMPER
AND THE SAFE MANEUVERING AND STOPPING ABILITY OF YOUR TRUCK.
OTHER TRAVELING TIPS:
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Try the camper out on short trips to get the feel of how the truck handles with the camper
loaded. Backing a vehicle while using only mirrors may appear difficult, but with a little practice
you will become proficient at backing with your mirrors. You can also have someone stand to
the rear to guide you. The best place to practice is a large empty parking lot.
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Before departing on a trip check your routes. Remember that some tunnels prohibit travel
trailers and campers with LP gas systems.
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Before traveling make sure all cabinet doors are closed and drawers and loose objects are
secure.
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When securing your camper to the truck make sure you do not over tighten the tie downs. The
tie downs should be hand tight plus ½ turn. Be sure to check approximately every fifty miles
until you are sure that the tie downs are secure and not loosening from travel vibration.
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Be sure that you have traffic clearance before pulling out from the curb. Apply power slowly
and evenly avoiding over acceleration when starting from curb or other stopping point.
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Watch for dips or obstructions in the road which could cause damage to the undercarriage of
your truck or camper.
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Drive at moderate speeds, particularly in traffic and adverse weather conditions. Gusty
or strong wind conditions can radically and violently change the stability of your truck
and camper. Take precautions when passing another vehicle, especially trucks. Be
aware that another vehicle passing you can also radically change the stability of your
truck and camper. When in doubt, slow down or pull off of the road especially in
adverse weather conditions.
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Safe stopping depends upon brakes, speed, road surface, tire condition, and many other
factors. Be sure to keep a safe distance between you and the traffic ahead of you.
Remember that the weight of the camper adds an additional stopping burden to your truck.
Allow extra distance for passing and stopping.
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Do not travel with full holding tanks. Empty holding tanks before traveling. Be aware that full
holding tanks can radically change the weight distribution and balance of the camper on your
truck and will alter how your truck handles.
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Instruct your family on what to do in case of a fire. Hold fire drills periodically. Practice using
the emergency exits. Maintain proper charge in the fire extinguisher.
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Insure that the LP gas detector provided with your unit is in proper working condition.