U320 for Dummies

Topic: U320 for Dummies (Read 5017 times) previous topic - next topic

Follow-ups
- Potential roof issue? (split from Re: U320 for Dummies)

U320 for Dummies

December 09, 2020, 10:56:19 am

I have a handful of questions as I've been thinking about our upcoming trip back to Phoenix from Nacogdoches and figured one chaotic post would be better than multiple. I think I know enough to get the coach on the road each morning, and setup in the evenings, but that's probably the extent of my knowledge. The coach in question is a 2001 U320 4010.

So without further ado:

Do the brake lights come on when the transmission retarder is active and you take your foot off the gas?

Does the engine charge the house batteries or is it only the generator?

Does the Aquahot also shutoff when the fuel tank reachs 1/4 full (like the generator)?

Does anyone have a copy of the HWH leveling system operating manual? A search pulled up the installation manual but I need a dummy's guide to using it.

Does anyone have a 'pre-flight' checklist I can use before hitting the road each day?

What am I not considering for our maiden voyage home?

[/list]

Re: U320 for Dummies

Reply #1 – December 09, 2020, 11:06:37 am

Quote from: Elliott – December 09, 2020, 10:56:19 am

I have a handful of questions...
I think I know enough to get the coach on the road each morning, and setup in the evenings, but that's probably the extent of my knowledge.

Have you exhausted the available online learning resources? Many of your future questions will be answered therein.

start [ForeForums Foretravel Motorcoach Wiki]

https://www.foreforums.com/index.php?action=media;sa=album;in=165

Foretravel Motorhome technical help and information links

Re: U320 for dummies

Reply #2 – December 09, 2020, 11:09:13 am

Brake lights come on with the retarder. If the retarder switch is on and the stick back a notch or more retarder comes on when you take you foot off the throttle (or when the cruise control does). I leave the stick off.

Engine alternator charges start batteries and house batteries through the OEM isolator when it is running, maybe replaced with another device.

If you run the generator and you have the inverter/charger on then 120v generator power will charge house batteries through the charger. As wired OEM the start batteries are not charged by the generator.

AquaHot will shut off if it is fuel starved but not at some tank level. Generally speaking 60-70 gallons is a practical minimum fuel level. At 100 gallons left I am looking. I rarely get below 80.

I do have the HWH manual, I will attach it.

Preflight check list, good idea.

Best move on your way home is to go somewhere close by for a couple night and try everything out. Several times. The call MOT for help as needed or return if needed. Leave with a slack schedule if possible. Maybe 300-350 miles a day at least at first.

Re: U320 for Dummies

Reply #3 – December 09, 2020, 11:15:30 am

Quote from: Chuck & Jeannie – December 09, 2020, 11:06:37 am

Have you exhausted the available online learning resources? Most of your future questions will be answered therein.

start [ForeForums Foretravel Motorcoach Wiki]

https://www.foreforums.com/index.php?action=media;sa=album;in=165

Foretravel Motorhome technical help and information links

I do search before asking questions but as I'm sure you know, it's easier to find something once you've seen it before. I was not aware of the Wiki though, that's good stuff. I had also pretty much given up on Beamalarm.com since MOT took it over but the archive.org trick is a good one that I'll bookmark for future use. Thank you

Re: U320 for dummies

Reply #4 – December 09, 2020, 11:39:42 am

Thanks Roger, that's great stuff.

Quote from: Roger & Susan in Home2 – December 09, 2020, 11:09:13 am

Best move on your way home is to go somewhere close by for a couple night and try everything out. Several times. The call MOT for help as needed or return if needed. Leave with a slack schedule if possible. Maybe 300-350 miles a day at least at first.

Good point, we're hoping it's ready for pick up Friday so we'll shoot to stay close that night. Unfortunately there's not the usual slack in the schedule that we're accustomed to so, barring any issues, we'll have to hit the road Saturday and make the push home over the weekend.

Re: U320 for Dummies

Reply #5 – December 09, 2020, 11:44:25 am

Looks like clear sailing (no rain), but pretty strong cross winds in W Texas on Sunday. By Monday all calm again.

You will earn your "motorhome driver's license" on that drive.

Have always found this weather site helpful in planning driving and/or sailing trips:

Ventusky - Wind, Rain and Temperature Maps

Re: U320 for Dummies

Reply #6 – December 09, 2020, 11:58:10 am

Quote from: wolfe10 – December 09, 2020, 11:44:25 am

Ventusky - Wind, Rain and Temperature Maps

How have I never heard of this website before? This is awesome, thanks.

Re: U320 for Dummies

Reply #7 – December 09, 2020, 12:27:22 pm

Realize that along your path home. Many owners live. The owners map can be helpful.
Look up the instructions for being towed
Ensure your insurance covers windshield.
That you have towing coverage.
Keep track of fuel buys. Just incase bad fuel shows up.
Your not in a race ever!, I watched a utube video showing the coach doing 75 mph towing a toad. Thats nuts!.
Weather wins always!
Do not allow people inside your coach. There will be a time and place down the road.
Have a spare key made for every key. Have an entry key located outside coach to prevent lock out.
Learn the knee check of doors. Have clear gorilla tape. To use if door keeps opening.
Go to the goodwill in Nacogdoches. Get some towels. Emergency rags = these towels.
Buy a container of decreased hand wipes.
Check windshield wipers. Work, stop, condition.
Check headlights and all lights at night! Try to not drive at night. Remember marker lights.
Check mirror's for position. Thru windshield or thru side window.
Remember people can see inside. Remember you by ownership are saying "I have money". Think about it!
Check tires when cold!!
Expect to run generator while driving, for roof ac units. Yes I know its winter. Its also over 80 in Texas and the engine heat is warming the bedroom.
Expect everything to fall on floor or ..... but stuff away or in sink.
The cup holders do not hold drinks!! You will launch a drink at your door.!
Learn where emergency window is, how to open. If a fire, grab yourself, other's get out. Always! Fumes will kill, before you know it.
Always look under your coach when you stop, leave. Learn colors. Raw diesel smell, rear lube, hot brakes, electrical fire smell. !
Have 1 place for important papers, receipts.
Don't be shy when you have questions. There are no stupid questions. Questions are how we all learn.
Put your home county, state in your information on member profile.
Check dash lights, get spare bulbs from fot while in Nac, use member discount. Door struts also.
Learn what is normal!!
Have fun!
Welcome Mark

The green light means you have a Pm. Hint!

Re: U320 for Dummies

Reply #8 – December 09, 2020, 12:45:51 pm

welcome!

Consider silverleaf VmSPC (Roger Engdahl from forum can help configure and sell you the system) - search function will bring up a LOAD of info on the system, low cost (relatively) and LOADS (more than OEM gauges) of info from the VmSPC - plus easier to interpret while driving.

x 2 on drink holders are awful, I bought "inserts" from a Forum member (DJ and Jane) that he prints on his 3D printer, and they are amazing. A must have for every owner in my opinion

just found the cup holder thread via "search" on the forum - "Search" feature on foruim is your friend, try it first for immediate answers, lots of great info there, try it out and you wil see what I mean.

As mentioned, DJ from the forum prints these cup holders- here is the original thread - PM (private message) DJ to order, they are again, very inexpensive for what you get...

Tim

Re: U320 for Dummies

Reply #9 – December 09, 2020, 12:48:25 pm

"What am I not considering for our maiden voyage home?"
HAVE FUN!!!

You are like me ...a newbie that has asked LOTS of questions, because there is ALOT of moving parts on these coaches.
The one topic that most concerns me is the bulkhead issues.....BUT that may be just me.
What we discovered almost immediately on the first outing was to be VERY careful with the awning out. Any wind bursts or sustained winds will cause havic with the awning including throwing it up over the coach...
I have learned A TON on this site, especially about winterization here in Canada...
Again.....welcome to the "brotherhood!"

Re: U320 for Dummies

Reply #10 – December 09, 2020, 12:49:33 pm

Elliot, You said you were leaving Nac on Saturday and making the trip over the weekend. I am not sure if you mean completing the 1220 mile trip in two days or not, but I would suggest you will be over fatigued if that is your plan.

600 miles in a day is tough in a motorhome especially if you are new to driving one. My maximum miles in a day was 675 and I was wiped out. That day ended up at my home and no driving the next day. When I first started driving my coach 350 was my max and that would leave me rather tired.

Of course you may be more experienced and will handle the miles just fine. I just wanted to suggest you plan for at least 3 or 4 days of travel.

Fatigue will open you up to pilot error at the worse possible moment

Re: U320 for Dummies

Reply #11 – December 09, 2020, 12:53:48 pm

#6 Take the loop around El Paso.

Pamela & Mike

Re: U320 for Dummies

Reply #12 – December 09, 2020, 12:56:00 pm

Excellent list above from Mark! One of his points (checking things at every stop) stands out to me as Very Important. Walking around the coach, looking at everything, being alert for unusual odors, opening the engine hatch to check for leaks, frayed belts, etc. Catch problems early!

A non-contact infrared laser thermometer is a handy tool. You can use it to check the temp of tires, brakes and axle hubs. You are looking for the "outlier" - the one that is markedly different from the rest. Tire temps will vary considerably during a long daily drive, but they should all be fairly consistent. A tire or wheel that is HOTTER than the rest is a red flag warning. Low pressure? Brake dragging? Impending bearing failure?

You can also use the thermometer to see if your engine block pre-heater is working, and to gauge how well your air conditioners are performing. Fridge/freezer temps? I get mine out sometimes and just walk around shooting random stuff for fun. "What is the temp of our dog's nose?"

https://www.harborfreight.com/search?q=Infrared%20Laser%20Thermometer

Re: U320 for Dummies

Reply #13 – December 09, 2020, 01:10:53 pm

Quote from: Pamela & Mike – December 09, 2020, 12:53:48 pm

#6 Take the loop around El Paso.

Pamela & Mike

ABSOLUTELY, THE WAY TO GO AROUND EL PASO

El Paso Bypass Using 375:

I-10 westbound
Take exit 34 to 375 north on the east side of El Paso
Right on U.S. 54 for a short distance
Left on MLK/3255 turns into NM 213
Left NM 404
Right on I-10 exit NM 162

Re: U320 for Dummies

Reply #14 – December 09, 2020, 01:24:16 pm

FYI:
You can disconnect the brake lights coming on with the retarder.
Personally it doesn't bother me to have them deactivated, because I always have my foot on the brake pedal if I am stopping hard enough to require brake lights.

Three reasons I don't like them coming on with retarder:

1st, every burp in the road, they kick the cruise control off. Sure, you can turn retarder switch off, but then you go flying off an off ramp, and forget retarder is off.

2nd, My jeep tow brake (Roadmaster invisa brake), activates off the brake lights, so every time my brake lights kick on, it hits the Jeep brakes

3rd, everytime I'm towing my race car trailer, same thing, every time the retarder hits, it hits the brakes on the trailer. Again, any serious braking, I have my foot on the brake pedal anyway, so the brake lights are going to come on.

Cheers
Chris

P.S. We have the blinking 3rd brake light option installed. Can you imagine how confusing it would be for someone following, if it activated every time the retarder kicked on in heavy traffic.?

Re: U320 for Dummies

Reply #15 – December 09, 2020, 01:30:11 pm

Elliot, copy this link to the way back machine before google eliminates it. This engine contains almost all of BeamAlarm's original content, and this page contains almost all you'll need to get going, and should answer your pre departure checklist concerns. Welcome aboard. Woody.

Guide to using a Foretravel

Re: U320 for Dummies

Reply #16 – December 09, 2020, 01:32:28 pm

Quote from: Chuck & Jeannie – December 09, 2020, 11:06:37 am

Have you exhausted the available online learning resources? Many of your future questions will be answered therein.

start [ForeForums Foretravel Motorcoach Wiki]

https://www.foreforums.com/index.php?action=media;sa=album;in=165

Foretravel Motorhome technical help and information links

Thanks Chuck, couple of links I wasn't aware of either
Chris

Re: U320 for Dummies

Reply #17 – December 09, 2020, 01:33:56 pm

Hmmm.

Chris - do you have a joystick on your retarder?

I leave the retarder joystick in the "zero" position with the retarder switch in the "on" position. The retarder in my coach is linked to the brake action - so it is always working whenever I step on the brake. In that way the retarder augments the brake, and has no effect on the operation of the cruise control. If I need additional braking or want to brake via retard only, I take my foot off the accelerator and reach down and pull the joystick back through its range of (I think) 6 progressively harder retarder application.

Net, I have my retarder switch on and control via the interconnect between the retarder and brake system, and use the joystick to "override" the brake control of the retarder to add more retard than the brake system alone is calling for.

Does your retarder work in a different manner in your 1997? I have only had a 1999 and 2000 with retarder and they both worked in this manner on those coaches.

Re: U320 for Dummies

Reply #18 – December 09, 2020, 01:46:50 pm

Quote from: Pyolet – December 09, 2020, 01:30:11 pm

Elliot, copy this link to the way back machine before google eliminates it. This engine contains almost all of BeamAlarm's original content

And the vast majority of the content actually originated on the Yahoo Group and here on the forum, so you can also use the forum search to find it.

Re: U320 for Dummies

Reply #19 – December 09, 2020, 01:56:07 pm

I really don't have anything to add to the excellent advise above. Just to let you know that I drove my coach from Nac to north of Chicago 1001 miles in three days going from very hot to stormy to pleasant weather with out any problems. Just a nice ride home. Make sure that you have stops booked before you go! Here is an excellent site with reviews of campgrounds and their locations:

Campground Reviews - Trusted Reviews of Campgrounds & RV Parks

Keith

Re: U320 for Dummies

Reply #20 – December 09, 2020, 02:03:44 pm

El Paso Bypass

Start or end at Anthony. From the north the junction at 375 and 54 is not well marked. Don't take 375 across the pass.

Re: U320 for Dummies

Reply #21 – December 09, 2020, 02:36:55 pm

Thanks guys, this is all great stuff.

8-10 hours of driving per day with the 5th wheel is what we usually plan for when we need to make a big trip. That's assuming good driving conditions, alternating drivers, and that we're well rested going into it. Some days we plan for it but realize we're done after 3 hours and get off the road. I'm guessing there will be enough new stressors that we aren't able to put on the same kind of miles but we'll see. We can flex our timeline if it comes to it, our employers are used to us calling in from coffee shops.

It's been a while since we've been pushed outside our comfort zone and I can't say I have missed it!

Re: U320 for Dummies

Reply #22 – December 09, 2020, 02:38:38 pm

my guess is you will find the Foretravel MUCH more relaxing to drive than a fiver after your first day of fear and trepidation....

Re: U320 for Dummies

Reply #23 – December 09, 2020, 02:44:54 pm

Congratulations and safe travels Elliot!

Everyone here has experience that first trip and you will never forget it. In the beginning FT ownership is like trying to drink from a firehose. It can seem overwhelming but it gets easier.

Lots of advice has already been given. As it's your first trip... don't rush the delivery at MOT. Take detailed notes because you won't remember everything. Get the after hours-phone number incase you have issues over the weekend on your way home.

Make sure you sign up for Coach-net or something like it before you leave MOT. It will be priceless if you need help during your travels.

Make sure you have a truck tire pressure gauge, a jug of oil and a jug of coolant just in case.

Check air pressure and fluid levels in the mornings before you get underway.

When I arrived at MOT for my PPI I had never seen a FT in person and had never driven anything as large. Mel drove me up my soon to be my coach in his golf cart. I got out and stood in front of it, obviously speechless and a bit terrified. Mel smiled and told me they look bigger in person.

Fellow Foretravelers and Forforum members Len and Marylin were having their coach serviced at MOT that day. He gave me some great advice before I headed back to NC:

1. Point your left leg at the at the painted road lines on the left and your right leg at the lines on the right.
2. Stay out of the fast lane and don't let anyone rush you for any reason.
3. Keep your eyes focused far ahead, not right in front of the coach.
3. Keep your eyes on a swivel, scanning left and right and your gauges.

Enjoy and safe travels!

Re: U320 for Dummies

Reply #24 – December 09, 2020, 04:39:08 pm

Quote from: Tim Fiedler – December 09, 2020, 01:33:56 pm

Hmmm.

Chris - do you have a joystick on your retarder?

I leave the retarder joystick in the "zero" position with the retarder switch in the "on" position. The retarder in my coach is linked to the brake action - so it is always working whenever I step on the brake. In that way the retarder augments the brake, and has no effect on the operation of the cruise control. If I need additional braking or want to brake via retard only, I take my foot off the accelerator and reach down and pull the joystick back through its range of (I think) 6 progressively harder retarder application.

Net, I have my retarder switch on and control via the interconnect between the retarder and brake system, and use the joystick to "override" the brake control of the retarder to add more retard than the brake system alone is calling for.

Does your retarder work in a different manner in your 1997? I have only had a 1999 and 2000 with retarder and they both worked in this manner on those coaches.

Thanks Tom
We do have a joystick. But even in zero position, it activates the brake lights, kills the cruise.Drove me crazy at 1st. I would imagine the reason is, because the earlier models had a switch only, and the joystick was an optional.

This one was probably installed at the dealer.The reason I know is because it ties into the brake light via a harness. The factory made it up for the add on which goes down to the lower side compartment, using a relay to activate brake light switches. I installed probably 10 of them at the Coeur d Alene store as a tech.

I would imagine, FT started wiring them into the harness standard on the later models.I believe later models had the relay above by the floor by the steering column as part of the harness. I could be wrong, but pretty sure from 98 up, the joy stick was standard. Don't know for a fact.

Thanks for the info
Chris

Affiliate Notice