Custom Luxury RVs

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Build & Price
  • Introduction
  • Exterior & Interior Care
  • Electrical Systems
  • LP Gas Systems
  • Major Appliances
  • Environmental
  • Portable Water
  • Wastewater
  • Entertainment
  • Hitching & Leveling
  • Checklists, Pre-travel, & Travel
  • Fire Safety & Emergency Checklist
  • Helpful Tools

    Hitching & Unhitching

    Hitching

    1. The tires of the RV should always be chocked during the hitching and un- hitching procedures.
    2. Lower the tailgate of the truck (if necessary) and back up so that the hitch is within a foot or so of the pin box.
    3. Make sure that the pin is centered with the fifth wheel plate.
    4. Adjust the height of the RV so that the pin box is approximately one inch lower than the hitch plate.
    5. This is usually a good time to connect the electrical cord from the RV to the truck.
    6. Raise and close the tailgate if it was necessary to lower.
    7. Make sure that the release handle on the fifth-wheel hitch is open.
    8. Back under the RV until the release handle fully closes. (If the handle does not close completely, pull the handle to the release position and start over.)
    9. Connect the safety brake cable.
    10. Raise the front jacks of the RV until they are approximately an inch or so off the ground.
    11. With the chocks still in place on the RV, put the truck in drive and SLOWLY attempt to pull forward. Applying the brakes to the trailer will serve the same purpose as the chocks. If the hitch did not latch properly, the truck will pull free of the RV and it will be necessary to repeat the hitching process.
    12. After hitching to the RV raise the jacks the rest of the way.


    Un-hitching

    1. When the RV is positioned and leveled, put the truck in reverse and set the parking brake before putting the vehicle in park or neutral. This will help to ensure that there is no pressure on the lock mechanism before attempting to release the hitch.
    2. Chock the RV.
    3. Extend the front jacks until there is no weight on the truck. There is a point when raising the RV where you see a slight separation between the hitch and pin box plate. At this time there will be no weight on the truck. To ensure the proper operation of the hitch, it is recommended that there should be some RV weight on the hitch when disconnecting.
    4. Pull the hitch release handle. It should lock open.
    5. Lower the tailgate, disconnect the trailer electrical cord and the break-away cable.
    6. Pull forward slowly until the hitch is free of the pin box.


    Leveling System

    AUTOMATIC LEVELING SYSTEM – Standard on Majestics

    The Big Foot automatic leveling system is designed to automatically level your RV. Quadra BIGFOOT Fifth Wheel Owner’s Manual is available on Quadra’s website: www.quadraleveler.com, in your Owner’s Information Package, and in your portal.

    AUTOMATIC LEVELING SYSTEM – Standard on Summits

    The Lippert automatic leveling system by Quadra is designed to automatically level your RV. Lippert Leveling System Owner’s Manual Is available on Lippert’s website: https://support.lci1.com/formerly-atwood-products and in your Owner’s Information Package.



    Axles & Brakes

    Every New Horizons RV is equipped with axles and brakes appropriately sized for the weight of the trailer.

    The axles include the Independent Rubber Suspension System manufactured by MOR/ryde International. Electric drum brakes are standard.

    The primary benefits that you can expect from the MOR/ryde “IS” suspension are:

    Smoother Towing
    the MOR/ryde suspension has up to 2 1/2 times the suspension travel of leaf springs or rubber axles, allowing the MOR/ryde suspension to absorb road shock much better.

    Improved Tow ability
    the MOR/ryde suspension is designed to “block” body roll, improving the cornering and stability of the tow vehicle and trailer combination.

    Automotive Style Alignment
    a MOR/ryde first! You can manage your tire wear through toe and camber adjustments, a feature no other towable suspension offers. If uneven tire wear is observed, then wheel alignment is highly recommended. MOR/ryde, Int. can provide approved service facilities.

    Proven Durability
    the MOR/ryde suspension has undergone strenuous testing to prove it’s durability. The result? No more broken leaf springs!

    Majestics are standard with MorRyde Independent Suspension axles and Dexter Drum Brakes.

    Summits are standard with Dexter Axles and Dexter Drum brakes.

    Benefits of Mor/Ryde

    Axle Service Note

    All service procedures must be performed with the vehicle supported at the frame with appropriately rated safety stands and jacks. Customers will also find the owner's manuals for components, appliances and other equipment in their personalized Customer Portal for easy access.

    Kodiak Brake Manual
    MorRyde Axle Manual
    MorRyde IS and Disc Brakes



    Axle Lubrication

    After November of 2001, the pivoting shaft will have a grease zerk on the underside of the torque bracket. It should be greased every twelve months or 6,000 miles. The drum brake hub must be checked every five years or 10,000 miles. The optional disc brake hub must be checked regularly. For wheel bearing lubrication recommendations refer to the Axle service manual provided in the Owner’s Information Package.



    Troubleshooting
    Independent Suspension System ("IS")

    Excessive Tire Wear

    Cause Correction
    Tires not aligned Have tires realigned
    Worn torque bracket bearings Have the bearings replaced
    Shock absorbers are worn Replace shock absorbers
    Improper tire pressure Adjust air pressure
    Improper rubber spring deflection Call MorRyde service department to select a different rubber spring


    Excessive Sway

    Cause Correction
    Improper tire pressure Adjust air pressure
    Torn rubber spring Replace rubber spring
    Improper hitch weight Fifth wheels should have 20%–25% hitch weight


    Slide Out Rooms Maintenence

    Exterior & Seals

    1. The bottom and roof of the slide out rooms should be cleaned with soap and water. This should be done as often as the exterior of the unit is cleaned.
    2. Clean the rubber seals around the rooms with soap and water when cleaning the exterior of the unit.
    3. Apply a rubber protective product to the seals. There are several brands available that have UV blockers that help repel water and reduce excessive friction and wear. This will help extend the life of the seal.


    Patio Awnings

    The Carefree of Colorado Electric Patio Awning is the standard awning installed on your RV. The following is very general operation instructions. For more detailed operating instructions and care, please see the owner’s manual provided in your Owner’s Information Package.

    Pre-Travel Checklist

    The following is a brief list of procedures that will aid in your driving safety and extend your equipment’s life.

    Interior

    1. Lights are off.
    2. Shut off all appliances, air conditioner, heater, water heater, etc.
    3. Pantry bar is in place (where applicable).
    4. Counters are clear of anything that could become broken or damaged while RV is in motion.
    5. Lower antenna and satellite dish.
    6. Close all windows and vents.
    7. Retract all slides.
    8. Secure all doors.


    Exterior

    1. Windows, mirrors, and light lenses on your tow vehicle should be clean and unobstructed.
    2. Tires should be checked for proper cold inflation pressure.
    3. Wheel lug nuts on RV and tow vehicle should be checked for proper tightness.
    4. Fluid levels, including engine oil, transmission fluid, coolant, power steering fluid, brake fluid, and windshield washer fluid, should be checked and filled if necessary.
    5. Disconnect the unit and store the sewer and water supply hoses as well as shoreline power cords.
    6. Secure all cargo in the storage compartments as well as all cargo doors in the event of a sudden stop.
    7. Be sure awnings are put away and secured.
    8. Verify that the step is retracted, door is locked, and the entry handle is folded away.
    9. Check to ensure the hitch is securely locked.
    10. Ensure all legs are retracted completely.
    11. Check light connections between truck and RV by performing a physical observation of taillights and turn signals on your RV.

    NOTE
    It is always wise to walk/check your entrance and exit routes. Look for low branches and possible obstructions, tight corners, etc. If possible, have a traveling partner walk and check as driver moves the rig until all is clear.


    Traveling

    There are various adjustments that need to be made prior to starting and moving your RV.

  • Adjust the rear view and side mirrors.
  • The cruise control is not to be operated on icy roads, extremely wet roads, winding roads, heavy traffic, or in any other traffic situation where a constant speed cannot be maintained.
  • While driving on slippery surfaces, use care when accelerating or decelerating. Skidding and loss of vehicle control may be the result of abrupt changes in speed.
  • Driving through water deep enough to wet the brakes may affect the stopping distance or cause the vehicle to pull to one side. If you have driven through deep water, check the brake operation in a safe area to be sure they have not been affected. Never operate a vehicle if a difference in braking efficiency is noticeable.


    • RV Departure Checklist

    This checklist is intended for towable recreational vehicles such as fifth wheels, and it includes steps necessary to prepare an RV for departure. As some items may not apply to you or may not be necessary for every type of departure, it is recommended that you customize to your specific RV and your own needs.



    Download Checklist

    Fire Safety

    The possibility of fire exists in all areas of life, and the recreational lifestyle is no exception. RVs are complex. They are made up of many materials, some of which are flammable. Like most hazards, the possibility of fire can be minimized, if not eliminated. Recognizing the danger and practicing common sense safety and maintenance habits do this. For safety reasons, your unit is furnished with both a fire extinguisher and a smoke alarm.



    Fire Extinguisher

    The fire extinguisher is rated for Class B (grease, gasoline, diesel fuel, flammable liquids) and Class C (electrical) fires. These are the most common types of fires in RVs. Read the operator’s manual and the instructions on the fire extinguisher. Be sure to know how and when to use the extinguisher and where it is located.

    Fire extinguishers are mechanical, pressurized devices. Care must be exercised when they are handled. They must be maintained as the operator’s manual instructs for proper and safe operation. The extinguisher should be inspected at least once a month. More frequent inspections may be required if the extinguisher is exposed to the weather or to possible tampering. Do not test the extinguisher before partially discharging. Doing this will cause a loss of pressure.

    If a fire occurs in the RV, evacuate the unit as quickly and as safely as possible. Consider the cause and the severity of the fire and the risk involved before trying to extinguish it. If the fire is major or fuel fed, move away from and stand clear of the RV and wait for emergency assistance to arrive.



    Smoke Detector

    The battery powered smoke detector is mounted on the ceiling in the living area of the unit. Read the operating instructions for details on the testing and care for this important safety device. Test the smoke detector after the unit has been in storage, before each trip, and at least once a week during use. The detector should never be disabled because of nuisance or false alarm from cooking smoke or a dusty furnace. Ventilate the unit with fresh air and the alarm will shut off. Never disconnect or remove the battery from the smoke alarm. The battery should be replaced once a year or when the low battery signal sounds.



    Emergency Exit Windows

    In the living room and bedroom of the unit, there is an emergency exit (egress) window. This window is designed to be used as an additional exit in emergency situations. It can be easily identified by the red color of the handles and the red EXIT label. To open the egress window, lift the handle and push outward on the window.



    Emergency Equipment Checklist
    Flashlight
    		First Aid Kit
    		Emergency Road Flares
    		Toolbox with an assortment of hand tools
    		Plastic bucket
    		Tow chain or rope
    		Water hose
    		50ft of electrical cord (with at least 20 amp capacity)
    		Fire extinguisher
    		Lug wrench
    		Spare tire
    		Wheel blocks for levelling or extra jacks
    		Water hose
    		Water hose

    Helpful Tools

    Maintenance Schedule

    Maintenance requirements will vary with usage. For maintenance requirements on appliances and components, refer to the component suppliers list.



    Service Each Trip 1,000 miles 3 Months 6 Months Annually
    Wash exterior x
    Inspect tires x
    Torque lug nuts x
    Clean battery cables & terminals x
    Sanitise water tank x
    Check all exterior seams, roof, windows, sidewalls, etc. x
    Inspect seal on roof x
    Inspect seal on windows, sidewalls, and doors x
    Inspect electrical brake system x
    Lubricate hinges x
    Inspect and clean vents x
    Inspect suspension x
    Clean drapes and interior fabrics x

    Component Suppliers List

    Learn More