OWNER'S MANUAL

VIXEN MOTOR COMPANY PONTIAC, MICHIGAN

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 Welcome
We at Vixen Motor Company would like to thank you for selecting a Vixen 21 Motorhome.

Please take the time to familiarize yourself with your vehicle's operating controls and features by
reviewing the contents of this Vixen 21 Owner's Manual. Also, review the maintenance schedu tle,
warranty folder and other instruction booklets which are contained in your owner's portfolio.

For optimum performance, you should have your vehicle serviced at the recommended intervals by
an authorized Vixen dealer. His technical personnel have the training, special 1ools and equipnnent
to meet all of your service and maintenance needs. He wllt also be happy to assist you with any
questions you may have regarding your new motorhome .

If you are traveling and are unable to reach an authorized Vixen dealer, you may contact tha;Vi1xen
Motor Company for .assistance at the following toll-free numbers:

1-800-334-1511
1-800-351-0694 (In Michigan)

These numbers may also be used by any repair facility attempting to repair or service your vehicle,
If technical assistance is required.

Again, thank you for your purchase , and please be assured that the Vixen Motor Company will d9
everything_ it can to assure your complete satisfaction with your vehlGle.

Note: The instructior,.s and ,speclf/oatJoM ,:«>ntalne$',,tD>t/J.'-manua#.

~1/Jafed on •the latest d~1:Jta
evallabte at the time of publication . Vixen Motor Cortq;),attfre,(t,~ :1/)#'tflg/j 't;U> modify or
discontinue designs or to change speclflcatlons wftht>ut notlce-
,o,.Jncurrlnaobltgatlon.

Effective Date: August 20, 1986

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An ImportantMessageAboutYour New Motorhome

Your Vixen 21 Motorhome is a speciallzed vehicle, built with precision workmanship, distinctive
styling and high quality standards.

However, since your motorhome is longer, wider and heavier than your family automobile, It will
have different handling characteristics. As such, we recommend that you practice turning, braking,
backing and accelerating with your new vehicle at your earliest opportunity.

When pulling into traffic, check for oncoming vehicles In all directions. Give the appropriate signal
and accelerate slowly and smoothly. Be certain to allow sufficient room to compensate for less
acceleration due to the lower power-to-weight ratio of the vehicle.

When turning, because of the length of the vehicle, always pull further ahead to allow sufficient
clearance for the rear of the vehicle, before turning left or right.

When passing another vehicle, wait until the road Is clear of oncoming traffic for at least½ mlle,
and be sure to allow sufficient clearance ahead of the passed vehicle before returning to your
original lane.

When climbing or descending a steep grade, manually downshlft to a lower gear, and always leave
a safe stopping distance between yourself and other vehicles.

Also, be especially watchful for overhead obstructions and narrow passages which might damage
your roof or side panels.

Enjoy your new Vixen 21 Motorhome, and when you need assistance, service or replacement parts,
contact your authorized Vixen dealer.

WIiiiam B. Harrington
Vice President - Marketing President

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 TABLE OF CONTENTS
SUBJECT PAGE SUBJECT PAGE
WARRANTYHIGHLIGHTS........................ 5 MOTORHOMESYSTEMS ....................... 39
NEW VEHICLEBREAK-INRECOMMENDATIONS..... 6 Electrical System ............................ 39
SAFETYPRECAUTIONS......................... 7 12-VoltSystem ............................. 39
GETTINGTO KNOW YOUR 120-VoltSystem ........................•... 39
VIXEN 21 MOTORHOME........................ 10 Shoreline Connection ......................• 39
Turbocharged Diesel Engine .................... 10 Heart Interface Power Inverter •................. 40
Filling TheFuelTank . . . . . . . ................... 11 Inverter Operation ...................•..•... 40
Fuel Requirements ........................... 11 Overload Conditions ........................ 41
Winter Fuel Requirements ..................... 11 Troubleshooting The Heart Interface
Keys...................................... . 11 Power Inverter ......•....•................• 41
Door Locks ..............................•.. 11 Electrical Receptacles .•.....................• 41
RearvlewMirrors ............................. 12 TestlngTheGFCI Receptacle................ . 41
Inside RearvlewMirror .................•..•.. 12 Auxiliary Heating System ...................... 42
Outside RearvlewMirror ....................• 12 Heater Operation ...•................•...... 42
Driver's Seat Adjustment . . . . . . ..........•..... 12 Heater Controls .......•............•....... 43
Safety Belts ................................. 13 Heater Maintenance and Troubleshooting ....... 43
Seat Belt Wamings ........................... 14 Fresh Water System ..................•....... 44
Safety Restraints for Children .................. 14 City Water Connection .....•................. 44
Safety Restraints for Pregnant Women ...•••....• 15 Using The On-BoardSystem .....•....•.•..... 45
Instrumentation and Controls ..........•....... 16 Filllng The Water Tank ....................... 45
Instrument Panel and Interior Controls ....•...... 17 Draining The Fresh Water System .............. 45
Driving Your Vehicle .......................... 25 Water Pump ......•.......•................ 46
Ignition Switch ............................. 25 Bathroom Shutoff .•........................ 46
Engine Starting Procedures................•.• 25 Sanitizing The Water System ............•..... 46
Starting A Hot Engine ....................... 25 Hot Water Heater ....•...............•...... 47
Starting and Operating Conditions •............ 26 Drainage/SewageSystem ........•............ 47
Transmission Operation ..................... 26 Toilet .....................•......••......• 47
RecommendedShift Speeds .................. 26 Holding Tanks ............................. 47
Shifting Precautions ........................ 26 Drain and Toilet Care ........................ 48
Parking Brake .............................. 27 Wash Basin and Shower ..................... 48
Starting Out ............................... 27 Sump Pump ............................... 49
Power Steering ............................. 27 Sump Pump Filter .....................•...... 49
TIit Steering Wheel. ......................... 27 MonitorfControl Panel ..•...................... 48
Telescopic Steering Column ................•. 27 Power Roof Operation ...........•.....•......• 50
Cruise Control ............................. 28 Holding Tank Levels ......•.•................. 50
To Set Cruise Control. ....................... 28 Auxltla,y Battery Test . . . . . . . . . . . . • . . . ......... 51
To ResumeA P...S.t Speed .................. 28 Sump Pump Switch ........................... 51
Driving Up Or Down Hills ..................... 28 RangeHood Light. ........................... 51
To Pass A Vehicle ..............•.•.......... 28 Range Hood Fan ..........•.....•........•... 51
Cruise Control Wamlngs ...............•...•. 28 Water Pump Switch ..........................• 51
TumSignals ............................... 28 Alcohol Stove .........................•...•.•• 52
HazardWamlng Flasher ..................... 29 Stove Operation ............................. 52
Back-UpLights ............................. 29 Fuel Requirements ............•............•. 53
High Beams .........................•....• 29 Cleaning The Bumer .......................... 54
Windshield Wipers and Washers............... 29 Maintaining Your Stove ........................ 54
Power Brakes.............................. 30 Norcold Refrigerator ..........•.........•....• 54
Hom .......•....................•......•. 30 Refrigerator Operation ....................... 55
Engine Compartment ......................... 31 Defrosting The Refrigerator .................•. 55
Engine Access Cover ..................•...... 31 MaintainingYour Refrigerator ............•.... 55
Engine Oil Level Check ........................ 31 MicrowaveOven .•.•...•....•..............•. 55
Power Steering Fluid Check .................... 32 MicrowaveOven Controls ..............•..... 58
Drive BeltTenslon ............................ 32 Fire Extinguisher ............................. 57
Front Compartment ........................•. 32 PassengerSeats ......................•.•.•.. SI
Cooling System Check ................•....... 32 PedeatalTable ...........................•..• 58
Clutch Fluid Check ........................... 33 Sleeping Accommodations ................•.•• 58
Brake Fluid Check ............................ 33 Storage Compartments ....................... 59
Windshield WasherFluid Check ................. 34 Interior Lighting ..•.....•...••••.•.•.•.....•.• 59
Side Compartments (Driver'sSide) •....•.....•... 34 Windows ................................... 60
Side Compartments (Passenger'sSide) .•......... 35 EmergencyExit Window ....................... 60
Chassis Battery. ............................. 35 Mini Blinds .....•...•.......•........•...•.• 81
Jump-Starting Your Battery ............•....•.. 36 Privacycurtains .....•...............•..•.••• 81
Changing A Tire .............................. 36 Carpeting and Upholstery ...................... 81
Towing Your Vehicle .......................... 38

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TABLEOF CONTENTS(Continued)
SUBJECT PAGE SUBJECT PAGE
VEHICLE MAINTENANCE.•......•.........•.•.. 62 Maintenance Operations Description
Extreme DrtvtngConditions .................... 62 Body/Accessories ............................ 86
Maintenance Records ......................... 63 Exterior Body Panels ........................ 86
Speclflcatloos and Capacities .................. 63 Stainless Steel Sink ......................... 86
Non-ScheduledMaintenance .......•.....•..... 65 DemandWater Pump ........................ 86
Vixen Maintenance Service Chart ............... 65 Refrigerator . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . ........ 86
Maintenance Service Operations Microwave Oven ............................ 86
Engine/Chassis .............................. 66 Carpeting and Upholstery .................... 86
Change Engine 011and OIi FIiter ............... 66 Potable Water System ....................... 86
Fluid Check and DieselFuel FIiter Change. ...... 66 Black/Gray Water Tanks ..................... 87
Engine Oil ................................. 66 WebastoHeater ............................ 87
Transaxle Fluid ......................•..... 67 Electrical Power Inverter . . . . . . . . . . . . . ........ 87
Power Steering Fluid ...........••..•........ 67 Window Guides ............................ 87
BrakeFluid .......................•........ 67 Heater Cables ............................. 87
Clutch ,fluid ............•.................. 66 Exterior Lights, Doors, Windows ............... 87
Engine Coolant ....................•....... 68 Toilet ..................................... 88
Windshield Washer Fluid ..................... 68 Air Conditioning CondenserlRadiator ........... 88
Fuel Filter Water Separator ................... 68 Door and Compartment Hinges ................ 88
Battery Check ............................. 69 Stove..................................... 88
Wheel and Tire Check ....................... 69 Sump Pump ............................... 88
Equipment Operational Checks ............... 70 Installing Screws Into Fiberglass .............. 89
Headlights . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . ................. 70 Winter Use ................................ 89
Front ParklnglDirectional/Slde MarkerLights .... 70 Front Fuse Panel List ........................ 90
Rear Tallllght/Stopllghtl Directional Rear Fuse Panel List ........................ 90
and Side Marker Lights ...................... 70 Other Fuses ............................... 91
Roof Marker/Clearance Lights .......•........ 70
Windshield Wipers and Blades ................ 70
Wlndshleld Washers ........................ 71
Seat Belts . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . ................. 71
Drive Belt Check ............................ 71
Idle SpeedCheck and Adjustment ............. 74
Transaxle/Final Drive Fluid Change ............ 74
Clutch Operational Check .................... 75
Front and RearSuspension Check ...•......... 76
BrakeSystem Check .•...................... 77
Intake and Exhaust Valves .................... 80
Front Wheel BearingService .................. 80
Fuel Line Check ............................ 82
Exhaust System Check .........•.........•.. 83
Diesel EngineTune-Upand Filter Change. ....... 83
Air Cleaner Element ......................... 83
Tighten Englne/TransaxleMountings .•......... 84
Change Toothed Timing Belt and
Air Conditioner Belt ......................... 84
Coolant Protection Check ...................• 84
Chassis Lubrication ......................... 84
Cooling System Service ...................... 85

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 WarrantyHighlights
Your Vixen 21 Motorhome is covered by a Vixen Motor Company 12 Month/12,000 Mile New Vehicle
Limited Warranty that begins on the date the vehicle is first used or on the date the original
purchaser takes physical possession of the vehicle , whichever comes first.

It covers chassis components, body components, body panels, appliances, accessories and oth er
motorhome equipment except for tires and microwave oven which are covered by warranties
offered by their individual manufacturers. Your warranty also covers minor adjustments and minor
repa irs and the replacement of wear-out items which are not part of normal scheduled
mai ntenance.

Your vehicle is also covered by a Vixen Motor Company Emission Control Systems Warranty that
covers emission systems components for a period of eleven years after delivery to the purchaser or
until the vehicle has been driven 120,000 miles , whichever comes first.

Fo r co mp lete information on warranty coverage and limitations, please refer to the Vixen 21
Motorhome Warranty Folder .

When you take delivery of your vehic le, please ens ure that your selling dealer completes the
Vehicle and Owner Identification Information on the front cover of the warranty folder. Be certain
that the Vehicle Identification Number matches the number of your vehicle. This number ca n be
found on an embossed plate locat,ed on the top of the instrument panel on the driver's side of the
vehic le.

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New VehicleBreak-InRecommendations
Your new Vixen 21 Motorhome is ready for the road. However, to provide the longest life for the
vehicle, you should follow these guidelines during the break-in period:

• For the first 1,200 miles, drive at varying engine and road speeds, but do not exceed 50 mph.
Also, do not permit the engine to "lug" at low speeds. Instead, shift to a lower gear when
necessary.

• Check all fluid and engine oil levels on a regular basis and be alert for any indications of
overheating in any components. New engines may use more oil and fuel until they are
broken In.

Note: If you have to add engine oil before your first scheduled engine oil change at 5,000
miles, use only Mobil 1 or equivalent motor oil. For the proper viscosity, see FIG. 120, Page 66.

• To achieve uniform wear patterns and a good friction coefficient on new brake pads, avoid
repeated violent brake applications during the first 300 miles of use.

• During the break-in period, a degree of stiffness may be noticed at the gear shift, In the
steering column and other controls and mechanical assemblies. This stiffness should
disappear after a short period of use.

After 1,200 miles have been covered, you may gradually increase your road speeds up to the local
and state maximum speed limits.

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Safety Precautions
Throughout this manual you will see a number of notes, cautions and warnings pertaining to the
use of your motorhome and motorhome equipment. These terms indicate important information
which must be understood and observed at all times.

In addition, we strongly recommend that you observe the following:

• Make certain that all passengers are seated and have seat belts firmly In place while the
vehicle Is in motion. The passengers' seats must be in the proper position, facing forward.
Do not attempt to adjust the driver's seat when in motion.

• Avoid inhaling exhaust gases. They contain carbon monoxide, a colorless and odorless gas
which can kill. Never run the engine In a closed area and never sit In a parked vehicle with
the engine running for an extended period.

• Use care when accelerating or downshifting on a slippery surface. Abrupt speed changes
can cause skidding and loss of control.

• Never load your vehicle in excess of the gross vehicle weight rating.

• Do not remove the expansion tank cap while the engine and radiator are still hot. Always
check coolant level visually at the see-through expansion tank.

• Driving through water deep enough to wet the brakes may affect stopping distance or cause
the vehicle to pull to one side. Check brake operation in a safe area to be sure they have not
been affected. Never operate any vehicle if a difference in braking efficiency is noticeable.

• Examine the escape window and be familiar with its operation, but do not use except in
emergency.

• Monthly, and before beginning a vacation or extended trip, check the fire extinguisher for
proper charge and inspect to assure proper operating conditions.

• It is not safe to use cooking appliances for comfort heating. Cooking appliances need fresh
air for safe operation. Before operation:

1. Turn on exhaust fan, and

2. Open wi'ndow.

Unlike homes, the amount of oxygen supply is limited due to the size of the recreational
vehicle, and proper ventllatlon when using the cooking appllance(s) will avoid danger of
asphyxiation. It is especially important that cooking appliances not be used for comfort
heating as the danger of asphyxiation Is greater when the appliance is used for long periods
of time.

• Portable fuel-burning equipment, Including wood and charcoal grills and stoves, should not
be used Inside the recreational vehicle. The use of this equipment inside the recreation~!
vehicle may cause fires or asphyxiation.

• Do not bring or store gasoline or other flammable liquids inside the vehicle because a fire or
explosion may result.

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 ldentif ication and Location
of Important Exterior Components

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 11=1
Identificationand Location
of ImportantExteriorComponents

Fuel Fill Door

Emergency Exit
Window

Rear Engine
Compartment

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 GETTINGTO KNOWYOUR
VIXEN 21 MOTORHOME
TurbochargedDiesel Engine
The 2.4 liter diesel engine is a four-stroke unit
with forced aspiration by turbocharger. The
intake airflow is not controlled by a throttle
butterfly a$ on a spark-ignition engine, but
instead power output is controlled by accurate
metering of the fuel flow. This means that the
diesel engine always operates in the excess-air
range, so that its exhaust emissions contain
only a minimum of pollutants.
FIG. 1: Engine, Left Front - Cutaway View
The fuel is injected into a pre-combustion
chamber in finely atomized form by the
injector, and ignites when it comes into
contact with the hot air resulting from the high
compression ratio.
One of the factors contributing to the high
efficiency of the 2.4 liter diesel engine is the
exhaust-driven turbocharger. Above a certain
running speed and depending on throttle
opening, the turbocharger compresses the
intake air before it reaches the cylinders.
Fuel supply is by means of a vane-type fuel
pump integrated Into the distributor-pattern
injection pump, which is driven by a toothed
belt from the engine. Fuel from the tank is
passed through a filter with water trap before
reaching the Injection pump.
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Pressure
Regulator
FIG. 2: Turbocharger - Cutaway View
The volume of fuel injected is controlled by a
centrifugal governor according to engine
speed. The start of the injection stroke is
varied by an injection timer according to
internal pump pressure at the related engine
speed.
The injected fuel volume is increased at full
load by a diaphragm control device which
responds to turbocharger boost pressure.
To ensure that the fuel ignites when starting
from cold, the diesel engine is provided with
preheat plugs (glow plugs), which are heated
electrically for a short period before the engine
is started. If necessary, they continue to
operate for a period dependent on coolant
temperature after the engine has started.
An automatic regulating device which varies
the start of fuel injection according to coolant:
temperatures ensures that the engine starts
easily and runs smoothly while still cold.
During the warming-up phase, a temperature-
controlled increase in idle speed ensures
smooth running and avoids stalling.
To stop the engine, the fuel supply is
interrupted by an electric fuel shutoff valve. If
this valve should fail, the engine can be
stopped by operating a lever on the injection
pump.
 Filling The Fuel Tank WARNING: Never mix diesel fuel with gasoline
and never use starting aids such as ether or
The fuel fill door is located on the passenger gasoline in the air intake of the engine. This
side of the vehicle, forward of the side could cause engine damage and may result in
entrance.
personal injury.
When filling the tank, make certain that no
water accidenta l ly enters the tank. The filler
cap and the surrounding area should be clear
Keys
and free of dust. Your vehicle is equipped with four different
keys. The first key is for the ignition and the
Fuel FIii starting of the vehicle. The second key is for
Door Location locking and unlocking the cab and side
entrance doors. The remaining keys are for the
front, rear and side compartments.
Filler Cap
Fuel Fill Door We recommend that you record the key
numbers and store this information in a safe
place away from the vehicle.

FIG. 3: Fuel Fill Door - Filler Cap

Fuel Requirements
Rear &
Your turbodiesel engine is designed to run best Front Side
Ignition Door Compartment Panels
on Number 2-D diesel fuel. However, at Key Key Key Key
temperatures below 20 °F ( - 7°C), Number 2-D
fuel may cause operating problems. At these FIG. 4: Vehlcle Keys
low temperatures, use a winterized blend of
diesel fuel or Number 1-D diesel fuel. DoorLocks
CAUTION: Failure to use recommended fuels To lock the cab and side compartment doors
could result in fuel system or engine damage. when leaving the vehicle, depress the interior
To help avoid such problems, please note the door lock button and close the door.
following: The doors may be locked and unlocked from
the outside using the key.
• Do not use diesel fuel which has been
contaminated with engine oils or water.
• Do not use home heating oil. It may cause
damage to your engine.
Winter Fuel Requirements
Diesel fuel is sensitive to temperature. It
contains wax particles which help to improve
fuel economy. However, at lower temperatures
these particles may turn to waxy flakes which
can clog the fuel filter. For best results,
therefore, you should use a winterized blend
diesel fuel or Number 1-D fuel at temperatures
below 20 °F ( - 7 °C).

FIG. 5: Door Lock Button

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 To lock the doors from inside the vehicle,
depress the interior door lock button. Unlock
by raising the button.
When the passenger door is locked, movement
of the inside door handle will not unlock or
open the door. The interior door lock button
must be raised before the door can be opened.
CAUTION: To lessen the chance of injury in the
event of an accident and to help prevent
occupants from being accidentally thrown from
the vehicle, always keep the doors locked
when driving. Locked doors also help to
prevent intruders from entering the vehicle
when stopped.
RearviewMirrors
Inside Rearview Mirror
Your vehicle is equipped with an adjustable
rearview mirror with a day-night adjustment to
reduce glare from the headlights of following
vehicles.
The mirror may be adjusted up, down, or
sideways to obtain the best view to the front
and rear. Move the day-night adjustment
forward to reduce glare when driving at night.
FIG. 6: Inside Rearview Mirror
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Outside Rearview Mirrors
Your vehicle is equipped with an electrically-
controlled outside rearview mirror on each side
of the vehicle. The adjustment controls are
located on the instrument panel.
When you depress the arrows in the direction
indicated, the selected mi.rror will move in that
direction. Select the left or right-hand mirror by
depressing the lower control.
Adjust the mirrors so that the side of your
vehicle appears at the inside edge of the
mirror.
CAUTION: Objects are closer than they appear
in the convex outside rearview mirror on the
right side.
Left Right
Mirror Mirror
FIG. 7: Outside Mirror Control
Driver'sSeat Adjustment
The driver's seat may be adjusted forward or
rearward by moving the lever located on left
side of the seat as shown (FIG. 8).
After you adjust the seat to the most
comfortable position, release the lever to lock
the seat into location.
FIG. 8: Driver's Seat Adjustment
 The seatback may also be adjusted to recl ine
up to 20° from the vertical positio n . To adjust
the seatback, lift the control lever on the right
side of the seat cushion .
CAUTION: Do not adjust the reclining seatback
on the driver's seat while the vehicle is moving.
The seatback could move suddenly and
unexpectedly and could cause the driver to
lose control of the vehicle.
To fasten the combination lap-shoulder safety
belt:
• Adjust the seat to the desired position .
• Sit straight and well back in the seat.
• Position t he lap belt across the hips as low
as possible . Insert the seat belt clip into the
buckle until a definite "snap" is heard.
Grasp the shoulder portion of the belt unde r
the connector and pull it snug across lap
and chest.
• To unfasten, press the release button in the
buckle.

FIG. 9: Reclining Driver's Seat Adjustment

Safety Belts
FIG. 10: Lap/ShoulderSafety Belt
The driver and al l seats in the vehicle
designated to carry passengers while the
vehic le Is in motion are equi pped with safety
belts . These belts are instal led for the
protection of the driver and all passengers, and
should be fastened whenever the vehicle is in
motion.
The driver and right front passenge r seats are
equipped with a combination lap-shoulder
safety belt. All other seats are equipped with a
lap safety belt.

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• The restraint system should have a label • Children should never be left alone in your
certifying that it meets Federal Motor vehicle. When you leave your vehicle, set the
Vehicle Safety Standard (FMVSS) No. 213. In parking brake fully and remove the ignition
Canada, restraints must meet the key.
requirements of the Children's Car Seats and • When not in use, secure the child restraint
Harness Regulations (CCSHR). Infant system using the seat belt or remove it and
restraints made before 1981 should have a place it somewhere other than in the vehicle
label on the restraint system or a statement to prevent injury to passengers In the event
in the accompanying literature that states of a sudden stop or accident.
that the design was "dynamically" tested.
• Make sure the child restraint system is Safety Restraintstor
suited to the child's height, weight and
build. A label on the restraint system should PregnantWomen
supply this information. Pregnant women are advised to consult their
• To help lessen the chance and/or severity of physicians about the use of seat belts to
Injury to a child in an accident, always use reduce the chance of injury during pregnancy.
the chlld seat tether straps and vehicle lap When a seat belt is worn, be certain the lap
belt to secure the child seat. Check seat by belt is positioned as low as possible across
pulling top of seat forward to be sure there the hips and adjusted for a snug flt.
is no slack In the tether straps, which could
reduce the protection of a child during an
accident.
• The metal parts of the child seat, just as any
metal part In your vehicle, can become hot
In both direct and cloud filtered sunlight,
and might possibly cause a flesh burn.
Under such conditions, the metal parts
should be covered with a cloth. Before
placing a child in the child seat, always
check the metal parts to ensure they will not
cause Injury.

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 Instrumentation and Controls

-
>===

-
Q 9ATT(R
V
BOOST
4U~
BLOW( II
I LO,HI I
-
- - I I I

FIG. 13: Instrument Panel

1 LIGHT SWITCH 10 FUEL GAUGE

2 BATTERY BOOST SWITCH 11 TEMPERATURE GAUGE
3 AUXILIARY BLOWER 12 VOLTMETER
4 TACHOMETER 13 AIR PRESSURE GAUGE
5 TURBO GAUGE 14 COMFORT CONTROLS
6 SPEEDOMETER/ODOMETER 15 REMOTE MIRROR CONTROLS
7 TURN SIGNAL INDICATORS 16 CIGARETTE LIGHTER
8 HIGH BEAM INDICATOR 17 AM/FM CASSETTE STEREO
9 BRAKE SYSTEM WARNING LIGHT 18 LOAD LEVELER CONTROLS
19 INSTRUMENT PANEL WARNING LIGHTS

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 InstrumentPaneland Interior
Controls
1. Light Switch - Controls headlights , tail
I ights , parking lights , license plate light ,
side marker and roof clearance li ghts ,
instrument panel lights and courtesy light .
2. Bat t ery Boost Switch - Provides
additional power from aux iliary batter ies
for starting engine . To be used in the event
that engine battery is low .
To activate, press the battery boost sw itch
when ign ition key is turned to start
position . Release when engine starts .

All Lights
Except Headlights
Push
Panel Lights
To
,l__
, Brightness
Sutt

IOff
- _,
- - -,'''
.
j
'

Cour1esy
Lights
+ Off

FIG. 15: Battery Boost Switch

3. Au xi liary Bl ower - Used to ope rate air

FIG. 14: Ligh1 Sw itch conditio ni ng fan loc ated above ref rige rator
and left of monitor pane l.
Switch Pos ition
The aux ilia ry blo wer is a th ree pos it ion
• Fully in toward instrument panel - all switch w ith a " LO," " OFF " and " Hf"
lights off . position .
• Out to firs t stop - all lights ex cept
headlights on .
• Fully out - all lights on (headlamp beam
depends on dimmer switch po,sition) .
• Rota t e knob to adjust instrument panel
light brightness .
• Rotate knob fully counterclockwise (past
+ Hi

stop ) to operate courtes y lights .

+ Off

+ Lo

FIG. 16: AuaJliary Blower Switch

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\ij
4. Tachometer - Indicates engine speed In
revolutions per minute (rpm's).
For sustained operations, speeds should
not exceed 4800 rpm's.
FIG. 17: Tachometer
5. Turbo Gauge - Monitors performance of
turbocharger.
When turbocharger is not used, the gauge
should read zero. When turbocharger is in
use, the needle should move right of center
to approximately 10 - 12 psi. This indicates
normal boost pressure.
FIG. 18: Turbo Gauge
The left side of the gauge indicates
vacuum pressure. If the gauge reads to the
left of zero, there may be an obstruction on
the inlet side of the turbocharger (air
cleaner, hose, etc.). If so, contact your
dealer for assistance.
PAGE18
Page 18.max
6. Speedometer/Odometer - Speedometer
indicates speed of vehicle in miles per
hour and kilometers per hour.
FIG. 19: Speedometer/Odometer
Odometer displays total accumulated
miles. A trip odometer displays the total
accumulated miles up to 999.9 miles since
last reset. To reset, push the trip odometer
reset stem.
7. Turn Signal Indicators - Indicate direction
of turn when turn signal switch on steering
column Is activated.
Turn signals operate only when ignition is
In "ON" or "ACCESSORY" position. To
indicate a left turn, pull the turn signal
lever down. To indicate a right turn, push
the turn signal lever up. The lever will
return to the neutral position after the turn
has been completed.
BRAKE
FIG. 20: Tum Slgnals, High Beam, Brake Indicators
 8. High Beam Indicator - Indicates that
headlights are on high beam when high
beam switch on steering column Is
activated (see FIG. 20).
To change from low beam to high beam or
to switch back to low beam, pull the turn
signal lever towards the steering wheel.
10. Fuel Gauge - Indicates amount of fuel
remaining In the tank when the Ignition
switch Is in the "ON" position. The needle
will return to empty when the ignition
is in the "OFF" position.
A 1-3 gallon fuel reserve Is built into the
fuel gauge system when the needle reads
empty.

TumSlgnal ♦
Lane Change ♦
Right

.... Wash • Wiper

HIILow Headlight
Beam Change
Lane Change ♦
TumSlgnal ♦ FIG. 22: Fuel Tank Gauge

FIG. 21: CombinationLeverControl 11. Temperature Gauge - Indicates

9. Brake System Warning Light - Indicates
loss or difference of hydraullc pressure in
brake system (see FIG. 20).
The light will glow red with the ignition In
the "START" position to test the bulb. The
same light wlll glow with the Ignition In the
"ON" position after the parking brake Is
applied to remind you to release the
parking brake when starting out.
temperature of coolant in cooling system.
This temperature will vary with outside air
temperature and operating conditions.
The normal operating range Is 180°-235°. If
the needle reads in excess of 235 ° for an
extended period, shut down the engine and
let cool. If engine continues to overheat at
restart, contact your authorized Vixen
dealer for assistance.

Note: This light does not indicate brake

fluid level In the master cylinder.

FIG. 23: TemperatureGauge

PAGE19

Page 19.max
 12. Voltmeter - Indicates electrical system
voltage. Acceptable normal range is 11-15 Note: The tan motor remains on at all times
volts, indicating that battery is charging when the key is in the "ON" position.
normally.
Readings below 11 volts indicate low
voltage or that the battery is discharging. If
it falls below 11 volts while driving, have
the alternator drive belt and charging
system checked.
,-Air --Cond--, r-Eeonom y-w
Ma• Norm Bi-L~v Vont Heal Dtf 'qJl}
... . $1 I
Hol
1°<dlil

FIG. 26: Comfort Control Panel

FIG. 24: Voltmeter Gauge
13. Air Pressure Gauge - Indicates the
pounds of pressure per square inch in the
shock absorber auto level system.
The white needle indicates amount of
pressure in front air shocks and red needle
indicates pressure in rear shocks. The
amount of air pressure will vary depending
on the vehicle load and road conditions.
•
Defogging and Defrosting - For maximum
Defogging and Defrost, push upper lever
and temperature control lever all the way
to the right. Adjust temperature control for
comfort. The Bi-Level setting provides
fresh air from instrument panel, floor and
defroster vents.
The air conditioning compressor will
operate when in the defrost/defog mode
and when the outside temperature is above
30°F ( - 1 °C) to provide additional
dehumidification. Dehumidification can
also be obtained in the "MAX," "NORM"
and "Bl-LEVEL" modes above 30°F outside
temperature .

Hi .-----Ai,-Cond -, ~ Econo my --,

011 Ma• Norm Bi•LCY Venl H ear O~j -q[JJ
• • ■ ■ • •

f
Cold
a$ajj
Hot

~" l o

FIG. 25: Air Pressure Gauge

FIG. 27: Comfort Control Panel - Defroster Mode

14. Comfort Controls
Heating - For maximum heat, move upper
lever to "HEAT" position and move
temperature control lever to "WARM."
Adjust temperature control lever and four-
speed fan for your comfort.
WARNING: To avoid loss of visibility
because of ice on windshield during
freezing weather, warm the windshield with
defroster before and during windshield
washeruse.

PAGE 20

Page 20.max
 Fresh Air Ventilation
Slide upper lever to "VENT." Adjust
temperature control lever and four-speed
fan for your comfort.

011

11'
'
Mu
. . NI. .
,---Air-Cond---,
Norm Bi-Lev
,-Economy--,
Vent Heal D••' qJ7

i
Cold Hot
11 FW FIG. 30: Outside Remote Mirror Control

16. Cigarette Lighter - To operate, press in

the knob. When the heating element
FIG. 28: Air ConditionerDash Vent becomes sufficiently hot, the lighter will
pop out. It can then be removed from the
socket.
Air Conditioner
For fast cool-down temporarily set upper
lever at "MAX," set temperature control
lever to "COOL" position, and fan at "HI."
The "MAX" setting prevents dust and
odors from entering the vehicle and it
cools and removes moisture quickly from
the interior by recirculating only the air
already inside your vehicle.
For prolonged air conditioner operation,
always use fresh outside air by setting the
upper lever for "NORM" and adjusting the FIG. 31: Cigarette Lighter
temperature control and fan for your
comfort. 17. Radio Operation - Your vehicle is
equipped with an AM/FM Stereo Cassette
Radio.
Receiver Operation
1. Switch the receiver "ON" by rotating the
volume/balance control (2) clockwise.
•
~.
Hi

-=. . . .
011

H
Co~
r--Air-Cond---,
Max

!!!!
Norm Bi-Lev
,-Economy--,
Vent Heat De•IqJ7

Hot
I
2. Select the receiver mode by switching
the AM/FM selector (12) to the desired
position.
Lo 11
F.i.@..,__========....!lg
111 3. Tune the receiver by rotating the tuning
control (8) in either direction. View the
station selected on the tuning dial (4).
When an FM Stereo station is properly
tuned the stereo indicator (5) wlll light.
FIG. 29: Comfort Control Panel - Levers 4. Adjust the front-to-rear speaker balance
TemperatureSettings by rotating the front/rear fader (7) in
either direction.
15. Remote Mirror Controls 5. Adjust the left-to-right speaker balance
(Refer to previous section on Outside by depressing and rotating the
Rearview Mirrors.) volume/balance control (2).
6. Adjust the tone control (1) to the desired
position.
PAGE21
Page 21.max
'vi
1-T-Conlnll 6-T•pelndlcatarLED
2-Voluma'B1l1,- Contral 7-Fronl/RNrF■ dar
3-IQec:t/F■et F-.nl &-TuningControl
4-TunlngDl ■I 9-Loud- Compenullon 14-FMMuting
HteNo lndlcatar 10-Stenlo Mono Conlnll
FIG. 32: Radio/Cassette Controls
Receiver Special Functions
Stereo Indicator (5) - Indicates that the
station tuned in the FM mode is
broadcasting a stereo slgnal.
Tape Indicator (6) - Lights when in the
"TAPE" mode.
Loudness Compensation (9) -
Automatically adjusts the tone to
compensate for low volume levels. The
bass and treble are attenuated when the
control is not activated.
Stereo/Mono Control (10) - Allows weak
signal to be received in monaural sound for
clarity of weak or fringe area signals.
Local/Distant Control (13) - This switch
should be positioned in the "LOCAL"
position for strong or nearby radio signals
and in the "DISTANT" position for weak or
fringe areas for best reception.
FM Muting Control (14) - Mutes (silences)
static from weak stations beyond the
reception range when tuning the radio.
Tape/Radio Bypass (15) - Allows the radio
to be played when In the "TAPE" mode.
The bypass may be engaged whenever In
the "TAPE" mode. This feature is most
commonly used when In the "FAST
FORWARD" mode.
Cassette Player Operation
Note: The radio switches to the "TAPE" mode
automatically whenever a cassette is inserted
into the cassette door and the tape bypass in
in the "OFF" position.
1. Insert the cassette into the tape door.
The open end of the cassette should be
facing the right side of the unit. The tape
indicator will light.
2. Adjust volume control (2) and tone
control (1) to a comfortable listening
level.
11-C.IAlteDoor
12-AIIIFMS■leclar 3. To advance the tape, depress the
13-l.oclll/Dl■la,-
eject/fast forward control (3) until it locks
15-T■pe/Aadlo Bypau
(approximately half-way in). The tape will
automatically advance to the end.
4. If you wish to monitor the radio while the
tape is advancing (or at any other time
while the tape is playing), depress the
bypass control to the "IN" position. The
radio will be heard through the speakers
while the tape continues to advance. To
return to the "TAPE" mode, depress the
bypass switch to the "OUT" position.
5. To eject the cassette, fully depress the
eject/fast forward control (3).
Note: Some cassette cases will warp
slightly with age. If a damaged cassette
does not fully eject, reinsert the tape and
depress the eject/fast forward control (3)
until the cassette can be easily removed.
Do not force the tape from the cassette
door.
Cassette Player Special Functions
Auto-Stop - The radio features an auto-
stop cassette player. When the tape has
finished playing and the cassette Is not
ejected, the tape drive system will
automatically switch Itself off to reduce
tape mechanism and cassette wear.
Tape/Radio Bypass (15) - Allows the radio
to be played when in the "TAPE" mode.
The tape/radio bypass may be engaged
whenever in the "TAPE" mode. This feature
is most commonly used when in the "FAST
FORWARD" mode.
PAGE22
Page 22.max
' M E!IJ
Cassette Care
Before Inserting cassette it is
recommended that any excess tape slack
be eliminated. FRONT AUTO RIDE REAR
t RAISE-LOWER l l AUTO-MAN ♦ t RAISE-LOWER J
Do not store cassettes where they will be

I I I
in direct sunlight to avoid warping the
cassette case and damaging the tape
mechanism.
Do not attempt to insert a case damaged
cassette or a cassette which has been
spliced.
To preserve the tape mechanism life,
remove the cassette before the unit is FIG. 33: Load Leveler Controls
switched off. This minimizes wear to the
capstan and pinch roller.
Do not store cassettes near any device 19. Instrument Panel Warning Lights
which might generate a magnetic field (any Warning lights, located in the instrument
device with a transformer, motor or any cluster alert you about component
electrical windings, car speakers, operation, and of component failure that
permanent magnets, etc.). could cause bodily injury or automobile
damage. Be sure you recognize each
Maintenance indicator so you can react Immediately
It is recommended that the tape head and when necessary.
capstan be cleaned after every 10-15 hours
of play. Liquid tape head cleaners may be
used following manufacturer's instructions
or you may use denatured alcohol applied g h k
with a cotton swab. Tape head cleaning
cassettes should not be used as they may WATER
damage the tape head due to the abrasive
textured coating they employ. Use of such
SEAT
BELTS D IN
FUEL
tapes may Invalidate your warranty.
The tape head should also be
demagnetized after every 40 hours of play.
Tape demagnetizing cassettes may be a b C d e
purchased from your local auto sound
LOW WAIT TOP AUTO
dealer or you may purchase an AC line OIL
LOW
TO START RIDE
powered demagnetizer from your local LEVEL COOLANT CRANK AJAR MANUAL
electronics store. The latter device, while
slightly more difficult to operate, yields
superior results. FIG. 34: Instrument Panel Warning Lights
18. Load Leveler Controls - Used to adjust
the front and rear heights of the vehicle.
a. Low Oil Level (yellow) - Indicates low
When the "AUTO-RIDE" control is in the engine oil level.
"AUTO" position the levelers will
automatically adjust to keep the vehicle Stop for a service check immediately. If
level. When the "AUTO-RIDE" control is oil must be added during the first 5,000
placed in the "MAN" mode you may adjust miles, use Mobil 1 oil or equivalent. After
the level of the vehicle manually by raising the 5,000 mile maintenance service, use
and lowering the front and rear ends. This CD engine oil. Refer to the
mode can be used in parking at Specifications section of maintenance
campground sites, to help level the vehicle. schedule for details.

PAGE23

Page 23.max
 b. Low Coolant (yellow} - Indicates I.ow
engine coolant lever. · WARNING: To guard against injury, check
Stop for a -service check immediately.
Check the coolant le,vel at the expansioh
tMk and not at the radiator. The proper
level is betwe:en the "ADD" and ''FULL"
marks with th'e engine at norm~!
operating te~perature.
Use a 50/50 mixture of Pr~s:tone
antrfreeze -or equivalent and elean water
to the c:ontainer. D:Onot fill above the
"FULL" mark.
c. Wait to Crank (yelloW) - This light will
re.main on when slarting the vehicle until
the engine glow plugs have reached the
minim1,1mstarting temper-ature. When the
light goes out, you may ~tart the engine.
d. Start (gre.en) - This light comes on
when the -''Wait to Crank''' light goes out.
When th 'e "START' 1 light G.dmes on., you
m~y turn the i.gnitlon to the "START"
pqsition.
e. Top Ajar (yellow} - Indicates that power
o·p:erated top ha·s not been lowered or
has not been properly l:leCUJed.
CAUTION: Do not operate the vehicle
unless the top Is down and in the
secured position.
coolant level at expansion tank. Do not check
coolant level on a hot engine.
i. Low Fuel Warning . - lndfoates low
amo1,mt of fuel in fuel tank;'.
$top to add fuel at your ffrst gpportun ity.
j. s:eat Seit Warning - Alerts 'the driver to
l;>uckle.the seat belt It op,e-rateswhen
the Ignition switch is first turneel to the
"ON" position, whether or not the belts
are buckled. It will go off automatically
after several seconds.
k. Alte:rnator Warning - Indicates trouble
in the charging sys_tem . The light should
glow with the Ignition switch in the
"ON" position and the engine off,
ihdi 'cafing the bulb works. If riot, have,
the bulb c'hecked. .
I. Water In Fuel Warning - Indicates
excessive water in f'uel filter.
If light comes ori, stop vehicle, shut
d·own e·ngine and drain water frbrh filte.r.
(S·e,e page 67, Fuel Filter Water
S~pa_rato_r.)
20. Gloveb'ox - To open glovebox, turn knob
clockwise and release.

f. Auto-Hide M~nual (yellow) - Indicates

that ''AUTO-RIDE" load leveler switch is
fn the manual positibn. - · - ·
g. Oil Pre,.ssure (red) - lndjcates low
engine oil pressure. It does -not indicate
oil level. The light shou·ld glow wUh the
ignition swilch ''ON'' and the engine .off,
indicating the bulb Works. Have the bulb
check,ed if it ·SU;lpSworking. With the
!:)ngine· ruonin ·g 1 ·the light $ho.uld be ·Q.ut,
indicating t~at oil pressure is nor-mal. If
the light remains on with the engine
running, it indicates low orl pressure.
Slop for a service check immediately.
There is n:oneed for concern if the light
flick~:rrs after sudden turns or stops.
h. Cool.ant Tempefature - Indicates high FIG. 35: Glovebox Compartment
engine coolant temperature. ·

PAGE24

Page 24.max
 DrivingYourVehicle
Ignition S.witch
The ignitiqn switch is lociite~ on the steering
coll!mn right ~ide. To operat!;l, insert th~
ignition key and rotate to one of the five
ii lustrated positions.
Off
Lock
\ .
c::::,-start
Ignition Switch
FIG. -36: Ignition Switch
To tu-rri the key 'to the "LOCK" position,
depress the key release. lever located on the
steering column and hold . Remove the key. The
steering wheel and ignition switch will be
locked for anti-theft protection.
FIG. 37: Ignition Key Release
WARNING: Do not depress the key release
lever with the ignition in the "OFF" position
while the vehicle is moving. This could result
in a locked steering wheel and loss of steering
control.
Engine Starting Procedures
Elefo_restarting , the vehicle, ensure that all
passengers are properly seated and that seat
belts are in the proper position. Apply the
parking brake,, depress clutch pedal and shift
the transmission to the neutral position.
ln'sert the square head key fully Into the
ignition switch and turn clockwise to the "ON"
position. Th:e ,''WAIT-TO-START" light on the
in,strument pan,el will come on. This light
On indic~tes that the glow plugs located in the
;
engine have c0me on and are pre-heating the
combustion chambers.
When the engi 'ne has been"sufficientlyheated
to faoilitat~r start-up, th.e ''WAIT-TO-START"
light will go out and the ,"START" light will
come on. Turn the key clockwise to the
"START" position. Release the key as soon as
the en,gine starts.
Note: During cold weather operatiQn, your
engine f!l:?-Ystart more easify if yol.J repe?,t the
above procedure once : First, tum the ignition
key back ' to "OFF," theri back to the "ON"
position and wait tor the "WAIT TO ,CRANK"
light to go oft. Remember to repeat this
procedure only once, on the first starting
attempt, when necessary.
After the ·engine starts, allow it to idle for
about 30 .seconds. Then gradually raise the
engine speed with the transmission in neutral
to allow oil to circulate and lubricate the
turbocharger . Allow the engine to return to idle
be.fore · engaging the transmission.
Note: Your Webasto heater can be used to heat ,
the ' engine coolant during cold weather to
facilitate start-up. For rrJaximum results, turn
the heater on tor approximately 15 minutes
before . attempting to start the engine. For
complete details, refer to the hea.ter op.e.rating
instructionsin this manual.
Starting A Hot Engine
When the engine is hot, •first turn the key
directly to the' ''START'' position. If the engine
fails to start at the firs.t attempt, repeat :the
,procedure for &tarting a cpld engine using th·e
glow plugs.
PAGE25
Page 25.max
 Starting and Operating Conditions Note: Some early models may utilize an
Under normal conditions, do not operate the electnc s·ofenoid operated reverse tock-out . To
starter for longer than 15 seconds at one time. operare. depress top o f s-hifrer knob before
In temperatures below 0°F (- i8°C) , you can shifting to reverse.
operate the starter for up to 30 seconds at one
time. Longer operating periods may result in Recommended Shift Speeds
starter or battery damage.
APPROXIMATE UPSH!FT SPEEDS
Before turning off the engine. always allow the
GEARS 1-2 2 · 3 3-4 4 ·5
engine to return to norma l idle speed and then
allow to run for several seconds. This assures
proper lubrication of the turbocharger .

Transmission Operation RPM 1ax 1800 18GC

Your vehicle 1s equipped wi th a 5-s;:>eed manual
transmission. synchronized 1n all forward gears
w ith either a manual or electronic reverse lock-
ouL This 1s to prevent the vehi c le from
ae-c1oe nta! 1y be ing shiflea into 'e.,,erse wh il e
moving forward. The floor mountea gearsh ift
lever operates in a basic "'H"' type pattern.
To shift gea•s . deoress the clutch oeca l to the
floor . then sh ift to the desired gear . Release
the clutch pedal slowly while depressing the
accelerator pedal g·ently. Shift through the
gears in numerical order.
Shift down to lower gears to accelerate at s lo w
S;)eeds. whe n lurn ,ng. when climb1 ~g or
descending steep inclines, or for low-speed
oass,ng
FIG. 38: Transmission Shift Patterns
When stopping. release lhe accelerator .
depress the brake peda l, and. as the vehicle
sl•ows to a near stop. depress the clutch pedal
completely.
To move rearward . stop completely and
cepress clutch pedal fully . Lif t the knob (A)
under the gearsh ift le.ver knob to override the
reverse stop and select reverse gear.
Note: Power to drive the alf cond1t10ning
eompressor is supplied by the engrne. To
increas -e engine performance during
acceleration. turn I.he air conditioning controls
ta the "OFF .. po .sit,on.
2Q50 '2700 2300
ABOVi:. .FIG i.JRES ARE MIN 1 MUI✓
~ ---------- -- - - - - ----
APPROXIMA-E COV, NSHIF1 SPEOS
-:;~AKR~H
~
•... ap,..
·
.:a£~~
:7s0~1
.:aCS::-
I
l ABOVE FIGU~ES ARE~AXIM~MS 1
FIG. 39: Recommended .Shilt Speeds
Shifting Precautions
CAUTION: Do not rest your foot on the clutch
pedal while driving or slip the clutch while
shifting. It causes excessive heat which
damages the clutch. This is especially
Important to remember when parking or moving
slowly in Re11erse.
CAUTION: Do not attempt lo engage reverse
gear while moving forward. Gear damage can
result.
CAUTION: Do not operate at sustained high
speeds In lower gears. Avoid overspeedlng the
engine.
CAUTION: Do not shift too quickly lor the
transmission synchronizers to operate properly.
Synchronizer damage can result.
CAUTION: Do not overload or "lug" the engine
by operating too slowly while in e high gear.
Shift down to 4th, 3rd, 2nd, or 1st as the
situation demands.
CAUTION: Do not downshift when exceeding
recommended maximum speed for a gear
position. This overspeeds the engine resultlng
in engine and transmission synchronizer
damage. Shift down in succession (5th to 4th
to 3rd to 2nd to 1st) to avoid overspeedlng.
CAUTION: Do not operate the engine with the
tachometer needle In the red area (above 4800
rpm's). or engine damage will occur.

PAGE 26

Page 26.max
 Parking Brake
The parking brak e is located below the left
side of the instr ument panel.
To app ly the brake , fully depress the foot
pedal. Pull the release handle to release the
parking brake .
} }
Service
Clut ch Accelerator
Pedal Brake
Peda l Pedal
FIG. 40: Foot Pedal Control s
CAUTION: Never attempt to drive your vehicle
with the parking brake fully or partially
engaged.
Starting Out
After starting , allow the engine to idle an
additional ten seconds before driving. Observe
instrument cluste r for proper readings. Apply
clutch and brake pedal, engage transm is sion,
release brake and parking brake , and drive away.
Drive at moderate speeds for the first few
minutes to warm the engine and transaxle.
Your vehicle will perform best with the entire
powertrain at normal operating temperature.
During cold weather or on slippery pavement ,
run the engine for a short time before dr ivin g.
WARNING: Be especlally careful during the
warm-up period while driving on slippery roads,
In close-quarter maneuvering, parking or
stopping. Otherwise, If control is lost, an
accident and bodily Injury could result.
CAUTION : Do not race a cold engine under any
circumstances. Also avoid long idling periods -
it's not good for the engine and it wastes fuel.
Try to operate the vehicle regularly .at normal
operating temperature.
PAGE 27
Page 27.max
Power Steering
Power steering reduces steering effort by using
an engine -driven hyd raulic pump to devel op
ass ist power.
WARNING: If the engine stalls or the power
assist falls because of some malfunction , the
vehicle can still be safely steered although
greater effort at certain speeds will be
required, particularly in sharp turns.
CAUTION: Do not hold the front wheels turned
against the left or right stops longer than five
seconds . The power steering pump can
overheat resulting In pump damage.
Tilt Steering Wheel
The tilt steering wheel c an be set in any of six
positi ons. Pul I the lever toward the steering
wheel to select the desired posit io n.
WARNING: Do not adjust the tilt position while
driving or operate steering column controls by
reaching through the steering wheel . Either of
these actions could cause loss of control that
results In an accident and bodily injury .
-:;9~\
\.'I• \
Telescopic Lock
\
Knob ' ,,,,,,,,.,
'...,, .,.
~
\;-'
--
---
FIG. 41: Tilt and Te lescopic Steering Wheel
TelescopicSteering Column
The telescopic steering column allows you to
adjust the length of the steering column fo r
maximum d riving comfort.
To adjust, locate the telescop ic lock knob on
top of the column just below t he steering
wheel. Push the lock knob to the left. Push
Inward or outward to adjust to your comfort.
Total movement is one and a half inches (1½ ").
Move the knob to the right to lock in position.
 Crui·se Control
Cruise Control allows you to maintain a
constant speed of 30 mph or more during long-
di.stance driving, withbut keeping your foot on ·
the acce.lerato.r pedal. You can also ri3Sume a
pre-set cruising speed after braking or slowing
your vehicle. . going down a hill steep enough to cause the·.
The controls are located on the multi-function
stalk to the left of the steering col1,,1mn.
Driving Up or ·Down Hills
When going up or down hills, it is possibl& for
your vehic,le to lose or gain speed, even though ·
the Cruise Contra .I is engaged. If this happens
while goin,g up hill, merely press down the
accelerator to main'tain the desrred speed. If
vehicle to gain speed, press the brake pe.dal,
whl .ch will dlsengage ·the Cruise Contt'ol and
help ~low your vehicle.

To P.ass a Vehicle
Use the · accelerator pedal for mor~ speed when
passing. When you take your foot off the pedal,
your vehicle will slow to the speed set before
Resumeiii! O!l fiiiOII passin,g.
Sefuuh171
Spaad
I -wash
I
! Wiper

Cruise Control Warnings

FIG. 42: Cruise Control Lever
To Set Cruise Control
Accelerate to the desired speed, turn the
cruise switch tb "ON,'! push in th'e engagement
button, then release It. Take your foot· off the
accell:lrator pedal and the set speed will be
maintained, with some variations when going
up or down hill.
To reset Cruise Control to a faster speed,
accelerate to faster sp.eed using the ·
accele.rator pedal or resume button, then push
In the ehgagement button and release It. To
reset to a slower speed, push in the button all
the way and hold it t,here until your vehicle
slows fo the desired speed, then release the
button.
To disengage Cruise Control, apply the brakes,
turn the control to "OFF," or push In the
clutch. When the Ignition switch is ''OFF," the
Cruise . Control Is a1~·0 disengaged.
To help keep your vehicle under control, do not
use. Cruise Control und.er these conditions:
• When it is not possible to keep your vehicle
at a set speed.
• On slippery roads; such as on snow or ice;
• In heavy or varying traffic, in traffic that
varies in speed, or on winding roads.
Be sure to turn the Cruise Control switch to
the "OFF" position when not in use to· avoid
acclqental engagement.
TurnSignals
The turn slgnals are located on the multi•
function stalk to the left of the steering
column .
To signal, move the lever up or down,
depending on the directi9n of the .turn.
Up: Right turn signal ·.
Down: Left turn signal.
Righi Lane
Changer

To Resu"'e a Pre-SetSpead
Off
To resume the last-set cruising speed after
braking, depressing the clutch, .or stopping,
first accelerate to a speed clo.se to the last-Set
cruising speed, slide the. cruise switch to
"RESUME," then release b9th the switch and
the acceler~tor pedal.
..
Left lane
qha~ger

°FIG. 43: Turn Indicator

PAGE28
Page 28.max
 Lane change: Hold stalk slightly in up or down
position.
The signal will remain on until the turn is
completed or until the signal is returned to
neutral by hand. A light in the instrument
cluster will flash to indicate proper operation
of the front and rear turn signal lamps. If the
indication lamp remains on and does not flash,
check for a defective outside lamp bulb. If the
indicator fails to light when the lever is moved,
check the fuse or Indicator bulb.

Hazard Warning Flasher

The Hazard Warning Flasher operates with the
ignition switch "ON" or "OFF." Push the
button on the steering column right side. All
four outside turn signals and the instrument
cluster indicators will flash on and off together.
Pull button to cancel. Use for emergency stops
or warning of dangerous conditions.
FIG. 45: Headlight Dimmer SwHch
Windshield Wipers and Washers
The controls for the windshield wipers and
washers are located on the multi-function stalk
to the left of the steering column.
The windshield wipers have two speeds. To
operate, turn the lever in a counterclockwise
direction toward the instrument panel. The first
stop is for slow speed operation. The second
stop is for high speed operation.
To operate the windshield washers, push the
lever towards the steering column and release.

Turn Signal
♦
Lane Change ♦
FIG. 44: Hazard Flasher Control
Right

Resumejjf On fiiiiOff I
Backup Lights H I --wash • Wiper
I Seinnhi
Speed 411,,._ I
The backup lights operate when the
transmission is shifted into Reverse with the
Lett " HI/Low Headllght
ignition switch on. Beam Change
Lane Change ♦
High Beams
To change from low to high or from high to low
beams, pull the multi-function stalk toward the
Turn Signal t
steering wheel.
FIG. 46: Windshield Wipers and Washers Control
The high beam indicator Iight on the
instrument panel will light when the high
beams are on.

PAGE29
Page 29.max
 During cold weather an antifreeze windshield
washer solution should be used as directed. It
aids cleaning action, reduces the fluid freezing
point and is not harmful to paint or trim.

Note: Check the windshield washer reservoir

level frequently. It is located Inside the front
storage compartment.

Power Brakes
Your vehicle is equipped with power front disc
brakes and rear drum brakes operated by a
hydraulic, dual-reservoir master cylinder. The
front and rear hydraulic systems are separate
from each other but they work together, in
tandem.
Power brakes reduce .braking effort by using a
hydraulic booster for assist. A reserve system
maintains power assist for one or two brake
applications after the engine stops.

WARNING: With no power assist, greater pedal

effort is needed for braking.
WARNING: If one hydraulic system fails, the
other still functions and will be detected by a
significant increase in brake pedal travel. The
brake warning light will also glow.

Horn
To operate the horn, press the center section
of the steering wheel.

PAGE30

Page 30.max
 Engine Compartment
The engine compartment is located in the rear
of the vehicle.
To open, unlock with key, and raise
compartment door.
FIG. 47: Engine Compartment Door
Engine AccessCover
Access to the engine is also available through
an access cover located beneath the mattress
inside the vehicle.
FIG. 48: Engine Access Cover
PAGE31
Page 31.max
CAUTION: When replacing this cover, make
certain that the panel is properly seated and
that all seals are in place.
WARNING:When the engine compartment is
open , make certain that the engine has been
turned off and that the keys have been
removed from the ignition to prevent accidental
starting. Be certain to keep small children
away from the engine compartment at all times.
Engine Oil Level Check
Your vehicle's engine oil must be maintained at
the proper level to assure proper lubrication of
the engine. It is the owner's responsibility to
check the oil level regularly , such as at every
fuel stop. It Is common for diesel engines to
consume oil during and after the initial break-in
period .
Check your oil level when the oi I is warm, such
as the last operation during every fuel stop.
After shutting off your engine, wait
approximately five minutes for the oil to drain
back into the oil pan. Then, remove the
dipstick . Wipe it off, and Insert the dipstick
back into the dipstick tube. Now, remove the
dipstick and check the oil level. The oil level
should read halfway between the "MAX." and
"MIN." notches on the dipstick. The level must
never be below the "MIN." mark. If your oil
level is low, remove the filler cap located 011
the top front of the engine , and add the
appropriate make and grade oil following the
specifications for your vehicle.
FIG. 49: Engine 011 Dipstick
 Note: Your vehicle is delivered with Mobil 1, a
synthetic motor oil. If you add oil prior to the
first scheduled maintenance service, use only
Mot)il 1 or equiva l ent motor oil. After the f irst
oil change , use the same m·ake and grade oil
used by your dealer. For the correct viscosity,
see FIG. 120, Page 66.

Power SteeringFluid Check

The power steering fluid reservoir is located in
the engine compartment.
Check the power steering fluid level on a
regular basis . Check with the engine cold for
most accurate reading. The fluid level should
be at the "COLD " mark . If the engine is hot,
the oil level should be at the "HOT" mark .
When adding fluid , use Dexron II, power
steering fluid or equivalent.
FIG. 51: Drive Belt Tension Check
Front Compartment
The fron-t compartment provides access to t he
coolant expans ion tank, clutch fluid reservoir ,
power brake fluid reservoir j windshield washer
fluid reservoir, spa re tire , jack and tools , and
Webasto heater fuse box.
To open, unlock wit h key, depress latch and
raise slowly.

Note: The front compartment is not fully sealed

against the elements . Do not store items
unless they are un affected by moisture and/or
dirt .

FIG. 50; PowerSteeringReservoir

Note: If the power steering system should fail

due to loss of fluid or because of engine
staffing , the vehicle can be steer ed using a
greater amount of effort.
FIG. 52: Front Storage Compartment

Drive Belt Tension CoolingSystem Check

The engine drive belts are used to drive the
power steering pump, alternator, air conditioner
and cooling fan .
These drive belts must be maintained at the
proper tension for proper vehicle operation .
If the drive belts are found to be loose , you
shou Id contact your dealer so that your belts
can be adjusted to the proper tension
specificatloni;.
PAGE32
The coolant level should be checked at the
coolant expansion tank on a regular basis
when the engine is cold.
When full, the coolant level should reach to the
"FULL " line on the transparent expansion tank
bottle .
The transparent coo lant expansion tank
permits the coolant level to be checked
without removing the cap .

Page 32.max

FIG. 53: Coolant Check
WARNING: Open the cap only when the engine
has cooled and the temperature gauge Is on
the lower third of the scale. Turn the cap
sllghtly counterclockwise to allow excess
pressure to escape . Then remove completely.
Add sufficient coolant to bring the level to the
"FULL" llne on the bottle .
Note: The coolant level and the condition of
the hoses and clamps should be checked on a
regular basis. At every 30,000 miles, the system
should be drained and refilled . Also, check to
be certain that the filler cap seals properly and
that the pressure relief valve and vacuum
equalizing valve are in good working condition.
Clutch Fluid Check
Your vehicle is equipped with a hydraulic
clutch . If the clutch fluid falls below the
minimum level, the clutch may not disengage,
resulting in hard shift effort.
To add fluid, remove the reservoir cap and fill
to the line marked "OIL LEVEL" on the
reservo ir.
FIG . 54: Clulch Fluid Check
PAGE 33
Page 33.max
Your vehicle is equipped with power assisted
front disc and rear drum brakes. The rear
brakes will adjust automatically during
" REVERSE" driving . The front disc brakes
require no adjustment.
Check the brake fluid level on a regular basis,
or whenever you notice the slightest difference
in braking efficiency.
The brake fluid level should be maintained
bet ween the minimum and full marks on the
reservoir. The level should never fall below the
minimum mark .
FIG. 55: Brake Fluid Check
CAUTION : If there is a loss of brake fluid, you
should contact your dealer to have your brake
system checked for malfunctions or leaks.
To check the brake fluid level, you must first
perform the following:
Step 1 - With the ignition in the "OFF"
position, pump the brake pedal ten (10) times .
This pumping action will mo ve the brake fluid
from the accumulator back to the reservoir.
Step 2 - Check the brake fluid level at the
reservoir. If the level Is below the "FULL " mark,
add fluid as necessary.
Note: Clean the reservoir cover and diaphragm
before removing.
Step 3 - After adding fluid, reinstall the
reservoir cover and diaphragm, making certain
that the cover has snapped into the proper
position .
WARNING: In the event of loss of power assist ,
the vehicle can still be stopped using much
greater pressure on the brake pedal. However ,
the stopping distance will be much longer .
 WindshieldWasher
. . Fluid Check Note: Thls coinp<!,rlment a/so provides access
Check the windshield wash~r fluid level on a to the air conditioning condenser care, Clean
regular basis, especial LY,during the winter debris from core as necessary, using hose or
months. vacuum ;
To check, look through the plastic washer fluid
reservoir. If fluld is neE3ded,remove the cap and
pout washer fluid into the reserv©ir.

FIG. 56: Windshield Washer Fluld ·check

FIG. ,57.: City Water C.onnpc.tl

_on
Side Compartments(DrivertsSide)
There a.re four compartments locateu on the
outsio:e driver's side of the vehicle.
To ope_n the lower compa,rtment-~.grasp with
two hands and pull towards you to release the
C ,. I f n 1 1 ■ I I t 1 I I J I J 1 ■
C
catches .

NotQ: The middle compattment i,s bolted in the.

alosed position.

The forward compartment provides access to

the city water connection and water system
drain valve.
The second compartment provides .access to FIG. 58: Gray Water Tank
the gray water tank. The third compartment
provides access to the black water tank and
termination c;,utlet.
The stora _ge compartment provides access to
the shore power elec.trical cord. This cord can
be connected directly to an outside power
source to provide shore power to the vehicle.
The dl .esel engine's al'r filter is also e.ccessed
In thi~ c.on:,partment.
This Gompartment can also b,e used for
storage .
To open, unloc;k With key and release· latches
at both sides of panel. Remove panel
completely and place In a position mat will
p.tevent It from t>"elngdamaged.
To replace, secure side latches and lock with
key. FIG. 59: Ttrmlnatlon Qgtlet and Black Water Tank

PAGE34

Page 34.max
FIG. 60: Shore Power Cord Storage
S.ideCompartments
(Passenger'sSide)
To open, unlock with key and release latches.
Remove the panel and place in a position that
will prevent it from being damaged . To replace,
secure side latches and lock with key.
Note: This compartment also provides access
to coolant radiator core . Clean debris from
core , using hose or vacuum.
The lower rear side compartment on the
passenger's side provides access to the
chassis battery and battery cables.
To open, grasp with two hands and pull
towards you to release the catches .
Note: The lower front side compartment is
bolted in the closed position .
ChassisBattery
The maintenance-free chassis battery in your
vehlcle does not normally require adding water
unless the alternator has been overcharging .
Keep the battery terminals clean and free from
corrosion by cleaning periodically with a
solution of baking soda and water .
CAUTION: Keep battery fluid and any deposits
removed from the battery connections away
from the body of the vehicle to prevent damage
to paint or body components.
PAGE35
Page 35.max
FIG. 61: Chassis Battery Location
WARNING:
• Use extreme care when servicing the battery.
Battery fluid contains sulfuric acid and m1ust
be kept from the eyes and skin. Safety
glasses, rubber gloves and protective
clothing are recommended. If acid contacts
eyes or skin, flush immediately with large
amounts of water. Get emergency medical
attention immediately.
• Batteries produce hydrogen gas and can
explode and cause serious bodily injury.
Don't smoke while checking or servicing
battery. Keep open flames and sparks away
from battery filler caps.
• To avoid a short circuit which could cause
injury, never allow tools or metal objects to
contact the battery posts and vehicle at the
same time. Also, disconnect the negative
battery cable when checking or servicing
battery.
• Always keep battery fluid away from children
and pets.
• Do not store the battery where there is a
likelihood of open fire, sparks, or
accessibility to children.
Jump-StartingYourBattery This Hook-Up For Negative Ground Vehicles

If you jump-start your battery, the booster To

-Starter
battery must be a 12-volt battery with negative
grounding.
Be.fore .starting, place the transmission in
· Switch

r-.=----\'t--L
r Jumper Cable

~ ~
neutral and set parking brake . Turn off all
lights, heater, air conditioner and other
appliances.

Procedure
Step 1 - Connect a jumper cable between the
positive posts of the two batteries . The positive
post may be identified by a "+" sign on the
battery cover near the battery post.
Step 2 - Connect one end of the other jumper
cable to the negative terminal of the battery in
the other vehicle. The negative terminal has
"NEG" on the battery cover near the post. Do
not connect the other end of the jumper cable
to the negative post of the discharged battery.
Connect it to the engine or frame. Do not
connect the jumper to the fuel system, air
cleaner or fuel line. Keep the cables clear of
belts and pulleys.
Step 3 - Start the engine in the vehicle
providing the jump-start. Let it run a few
minutes, then start your engine.
Step 4 - Remove the negative jumper cable,
first from your engine then from the battery in
the other vehicle.
Step 5 ~ Remove the positive jumper cable.
JUMP-STARTING - WARNINGS
Jump -starting can be dangerous. To avoid
personal injury or damage to electrical
components in vehicle, observe the following
warnings:
~ ~
Make Certain Vehicles D.o Not Touch
FIG. 62: Jump-Start Connections
ChangingA Tire
Tires with cuts, splits or cracks deep enough
to expose the fabric should be removed from
service. Bulges usually indicate internal
damage, and the tire should be removed. Tires
with questionable damage should be removed
from the vehicle and examined by an expert.
If an air loss 0ccurs while driving, do not
attempt to drive on the deflated tire more than
is necessary to stop safely. Driving even a
short distance can damage a tire beyond
repair.
Your vehicle is equipped with a full-sized spare
tire stored in the front storage compartment ,
along with the jack and jack handle .
Wing Nut-

• Never jump-start with a voltage source

greater than 16 volts DC. This will damage Handle
the electrical system. Threaded
Rod
• Never attempt to jump-start a discharged
battery that is frozen, because it could
rupture or explode during jump-starting. Wing Nut---- ·
• Be sure your vehicle is not touching the e,-----Retalner
jump-start vehicle.
• Observe all Battery Warnings while jump- ~
starting your vehicle. Tire-- ~

\Ju\----- Base

FIG. 63: Spare Tire/Jack Storage

PAGE36
Page 36.max
 Procedure Step 3 - Remove spare tire, jack, jack handle
Step 1 - Park the vehicle on a firm, level and lug wrench from storage area.
surface well off the road, t'o provide ample Step 4 - Pry off wheel cover, using flat end of
work space. Place . transmission into "FIRST" lug wrench starting at edge opposite tire valve.
(1) or "REVERSE" (R) gear and stop engine. Set
parking brake firmly and activate h~zard
warning flasher.

FIG. 66: Loosen Lug Nuts One-Half Turn

Step 5 - Loosen wheel nuts one-half turn

FIG. 64: Activate Hazard Warning Lights
counterclockwise. Do not remove nuts.

Step 2 - Insert wooden blocks under the tire

diagonally opposite tire to be changed to
prevent forward and backward movement.
g

FIG. 67: Vehicle "Jacking Points"

Step 6 - Position jack with its "saddle" firmly

engaged on frame "jacking point" as indicated .
FIG. 65: Block Opposite Tire
This Surface
WARNING: Do not work under the vehicle
without a jack stand supporting the vehicle. ·?§r~-.--A·g•l~Wh,,J
The jack is for changing tires only. Check
stability of vehicle after it is raised.
Passengers should not remain in vehicle.
WARNING: Do not start the engine with the
vehicle on a jack or jack stand.

FIG. 68: Install Lug Nuts

Step 7 - Raise vehicle by operating jack

handle until tire clears ground .
Step 8 - Remove lug nuts and wheel with ·tire.

PAGE37
Page 37.max
Step 9 - Position spare tire on vehicle and
install wheel lug nuts with cone-shaped end
toward wheel. Tighten nuts clockwise until
uniformly snug, using a crfss-cross pattern.
Step 10 - Lower vehicle until tire touches
ground.
Step 11 - Tighten wheel nuts firmly in
crisscross pattern.
Step 12 - LoweJ vehicle completely and
remove jack assembly.
Step 13 - Remove wheel blocks .
Step 14 - Refer to illustration attached to lid
for proper storage instructions for tire , jack ,
jack handle and lug wrench .

FIG . 69: Hydraulic Wheel Cradle

WARNING: Tire, jack, jack handle and lug
wrench must be properly stored and secured to
prevent them from becoming dangerous
projectiles during a quick stop or collision, and

I
to prevent rattles.

WARNING: After changing a wheel, check all -

the wheel nuts for tightness after driving a few
miles. Also, check the tire pressure of the
spare wheel and repair or replace the tire as
soon as possible. Refit it in its original position
=
after repair. Make sure that the spare tire is
filled to the required pressure before storage.

TowingYourVehicle
If your vehicle is disabled and must be towed,
make certain that the parking brake is released
and the gearshift is in the "NEUTRAL"
position.
Only two methods of towing your vehicle are·
recommended. Your choice of towing method
depends upon the problem which caused your
vehicle to be disabled.
1. Tow with the rear wheels off the ground.
Two methods are acceptable:
• Use a towing sling (Holmes T-S-100 or
equivalent) . Place "J" hooks on rear
crossmember and sling close to rear
bumper. Place a 4" x 4" lumber spacer
material between bottom side of rear
bumper and the sling . Raise to clear
wheels.
• Use a hydraulic wheel cradle.
2. Tow with all four wheels on the ground.
FIG. 70: Towing Sllng
SPECIAL TOWING CAUTIONS:
• Be certain that your steering wheel is in a
locked position when being towed. If
possible , secure the steering wheel with a
steering wheel clamping device designed for
towing service.
• Use the hazard warning flashers when
towing.
• Do not tow, lift or place force from a towing
sling or similar device on the front bumper.
• Jack the vehicle only at the approved jacking
points.
• Never attach hook-up chains or other towing
devices to the driveshafts, rear suspension
arms or rear coil springs.
• Do not tow vehicles at speeds in excess of
35 mph, nor for long distances.

PAGE38

Page 38.max
 MOTORHOMESYSTEMS 120-Volt System
The 120-volt system operates from an outside
utility service, as found at a campsite, or
ElectricalSystem household receptacle. This hook-up is
The electrical system used on the Vixen 21 commonly referred to as "shore power."
motorhome represents state-of-the-art When the motorhome is connected to a
automotive technology. There is a 12-volt direct 120-volt hook-up and the Heart Interface is on,
current system, similar to the one used in the entire AC panel of the vehicle is
automobiles, and a 120-volt alternating current automatically switched to shore power. In
system, similar to the one used in homes. addition, the system automatically starts
charging the auxiliary batteries and supplying
12-volt DC power for the 12-volt circuit of the
coach.
Power Interface Electrical System for Vixen 21
Shoreline Connection
Dual Output The 120-volt system is connected to an outside
Alternator
power source by way of a special shoreline
12 Volt D.C. #2 12 Volt D.C. #1 connection located in the rear storage
compartment on the driver's side of the
vehicle. The shoreline consists of a heavy-duty
cable with a 3-prong plug on one end, and is
permanently attached at the other end to the
Engine power inverter.
Starting
Battery To connect to shore power, remove the storage
compartment panel to expose the cable. Pull
the cable clear of the panel opening and
connect to the outside power source
receptacle. Then, replace the panel.
TS-30
Shore Automatic Note: The shore power cord on the Vixen
Power Transfer
Switch utilizes a 30-amp. plug. Your wall outlet at
Input
GFCI Reep. GFCI GFCI
home and some campsites use 15-amp. plugs.
Galley
1!31 Reep. Reep. A 30-amp. to 150-amp. adapter will be required.
:::---Q !81
Dinette 'Bedroom To connect the cord to a 2-prong outlet, such
as those used in the home and at some
Microwave Oven campsites and trailer parks, you will have to
Commons To obtain a 3-to-2 adapter. Both adapters can be
Reep. and Microwave
purchased from your dealer or recreational
vehicle supply outlet. If so, be certain that the
polarity of the motorhome matches that of the
FIG. 71: Vixen 21 Electrical System
outside receptacle.

12-Volt System
12-volt power is supplied by the heavy duty
alternator which is driven by the engine of the
vehicle. The output from the alternator is split
into two separate charging circuits, one to
charge the engine battery and the other to
charge the two 12-volt auxiliary batteries that
supply power to the 12-volt circuit of the
motorhome.
The engine battery serves to operate the
starter. The auxiliary batteries operate all of
the interior 12-volt equipment, including the
interior lights, monitor panel, refrigerator, water
pump, sump pump and radio.
FIG. 72: Shore Power Cord Adapter, 30 Amp to 15 Amp.

PAGE39

Page 39.max
 To checkthe polari1y, you may use a
qommercial polarity tester. This tester is an
ine~pensive device, a.vailable through most
retail electrical outlets.
WARNING: Improper polarity matching could
cause personal injury and/or damage to your
power inverter.
He.artInterface PowerInverter
Your power inverter provides you with silent,
efficient 120-volt AG power from your 12-volt
deep cycle .auxiliary batteries to operate the
microwave oven and other 120-volt AC
appliances, includin .g TV's, blenders, mixers,
electric razors, hair drye_rs,etc.
""~--
al!ll~11£1/!Q~.....,, ~ ..,-..;..-......
·Oifl!1JJI
...,.. oeo
InverterOperation
The, power inverter is located in the lowe.r
section of the storage closet. To operate the
inverter for power to the AC outlets and
microwave oven:
• Turn the ''POWER" switch to the "ON"
position. Both the "LOW BATTERY'; and
"OVERLOAD" light should come on .
• Wait for the "LOW BATTERY" light to go off.
Then, press the "RESET" button. The
"OVERLOAD" light should go out.
• The interface should now be operating and
should produce a barely audible humming
sound. All of the AC outlets and the
microwave oven shou Id have power.
Note: The Heart Interface is equipped with a
load demand circuit to save power while not in
use . If an appliance is fess than 15 watts, such
as the control pa,nel on the microwave oven,
that appliance may not operate until an
additional load is applied,
,~- This can be accomplished by plugging a lamp,

- --- ,~.
power tool or appliance into any waif outlet in
the motorhome and turning that unit on.

ij -'@
- .@)
·o,
02) @
~o·
{!JJ
0
-o
·=-
-=~
-~ 0
-··--
0 = o=
~
~

It
0
0
FIG. 73: Heart lnterf~ce
When connected to a 120-volt AC hook-up, the
entire AC panel of the vehicle is automatically
switched to the shore line. In addition, the
inverter automatically charges the auxiliary
batteries and supplies 12-volt DC to operate .
the 12-volt circuit of the motorhome. The
interface provides up to 50 amps of 12•volt DC
power · for battery charging and 12-volt loads.
This will provide 15 watts and override the load
demand circuit and allow the microwave to
operate.
Before connecting to shore power, check the
i•FLOAT CHARGE VOLTAGE" control dial on
the front panel of the unit. For normal
operation, the control should be set at 13.2
volts. This setting will allow the unit to charge
the auxiliary batteries at the maximum rate
without overcharging. When the batteries are
fully charged, the interface floats the batteries
at the voltage set on the control dial.
CAUTION: Do not leave the unit in this high
charge mode for more than four hours without
checking the water level in the batteries.

Note: The Heart Interface must be in the "ON''

position to charge the auxiliary batteries when
connected to shore power. If auxiliary battery
voltage is below 8 volts, it may be necessary,
before charging with Heart Interface, to start
the vehicle and press the battery boost button
to bring the Heart Interface up to the charge
cycle, The vehicle c;J.nb.e .shut off once the
Heart Interface starts charging.

PAGE40

Page 40.max
Overload Conditions
If more than 1200 watts are drawn from the
power inverter while disconnected from the shore
line, the unit is protected with a 10-amp. circuit
breaker located on the front panel. If an over-
load condition occurs, the circuit breaker will
trip (pop-out) and cut off power to the
motorhome.
To reset, first turn off all of the appliances in
the motorhome. Then, reset the circuit breaker
by depressing it to its original position.
If an overload condition occurs that is too fast
for the circuit breaker to protect against, an
electronic overload protection circuit is
activated. If this occurs, an "OVERLOAD" light
will be activated and power to the motorhome
will be cut-off.
To reset the unit, first turn off all appliances.
Then, press the "RESET" button on the face of
the unit. The "OVERLOAD" light should
immediately go out.
If an extended overload of 1200 to 1400 watts
should occur, a thermal protection device
within the unit will cut off power to the
motorhome, and the "OVERLOAD" light will
come on. To reset, first wait until the unit
cools. Then, turn off all appliances, and press
the "RESET" button. The "OVERLOAD" light
should immediately go out.
Troubleshooting The Heart Interface
Power Inverter
Condition: No AC Output
1. Check the unit for tripped circuit breaker or
electronic "OVERLOAD" light. Remove
loads and reset, if necessary.
2. Check the DC input terminals of the unit to
confirm that there are at least 12 volts of
input. Use a digital voltmeter for accuracy.
• If the reading is less than 12 volts, start
the engine or connect the unit to shore
power to recharge the batteries.
• If the reading is 12 volts or more, and the
"OVERLOAD" light will not go out when
the unit is reset, the unit may be in a
thermal overload condition. Allow the
unit to cool for at least ½ hour, remove
loads and reset.
• If the reading is 12 volts or more, and the
unit will not operate after completing the
previous steps, and you cannot find the
source of the overload, contact your
nearest Vixen dealer for assistance.
PAGE41
Page 41.max
Condition: No Charging
1. Check to verify that there is AC power to
the main 30-amp. line input to the
motorhome. '
2. Check "FLOAT CHARGE VOLTAGE"
control dial to confirm a setting of at least
13.2 volts. Reset as necessary. If the
battery voltage does not come up after
several hours, contact your nearest Vixen
dealer for assistance.
ElectricalReceptacles
Your vehicle is equipped with three (3) Ground
Fault Circuit Interrupter (GFCI) duplex
receptacles. These receptacles are located in
the bedroom, galley and dining areas.
The GFCI receptacle has a built-in circuit
breaker that protects against severe electrical
shock if a ground fault occurs in that circuit.
The GFCI senses the fault and breaks the
circuit by causing the "RESET" button, which
is built into the receptacle, to pop out.
To restore power, unplug the appliance causing
the fault and depress the "RESET" button.
I :• -
-0000
0 • 0
- a: -
FIG. 74: Ground Fault Circuit Interrupter
Testing The GFCI Receptacle
Your GFCI receptacle should be tested at least
once monthly. Plug a test light into the outlet
and push the "TEST" button which is built Into
the face of the receptacle. The red "RESET"
button should pop out and the test light should
go out. This indicates that power to the outlet
has been interrupted. To restore power,
depress the "RESET" button.

Note: If the button does not pop out, or if the
test light does not go out, the circuit is live . Do
not use the outlet. Contact your nearest
authorized Vixen dealer.
CAUTION : The GFCI receptacle does not
eliminate electrical shock completely. Small
children and personswith heart conditionsor
other disabilities that make them especially
sensitive to electrical shock, may still be
injured by a ground fault.
Auxiliary Heating System
The Vixen 21 is equ ipped with a Webasto
coolant heater which is used t o provide heat to
the m.otorhome portio n of the vehicle when the
engine is off .
The heater is located on the right front f rame
rail and is connected in series to the cooling
system of the engine. When in operation, it is
used to heat the coolant contained within the
cooling system , providing wa rm coolant to the
heater cores of the vehicle, pre7heating the
engine for easier cold weather starts, and
heating the hot water for domestic use.
FIG. 75: Webasto Heater Loca t ion
PAGE42
Page 42.max
Heater Operation
The heater is activated by a control unit
mounted on the side of the wardrobe closet ,
immediately inside the side door of the vehicle.
When the heater is tu rned on:
Control
Radio
Speaker
Unit
FIG . 76: Webasto Control Unit Location
Note: If the vehicle is running , the front heater
temperature control must be in the "MAX HOT "
position (full right) before performing the
following procedure .
• A water pump begins t o circulate the
coolant throughout the system, and a
combustion air fan automatically begi ns to
draw fresh air into the combustion chamber.
At the same time, a glow plug , located
within the heater and powered by the
auxiliary batteries, is lit.
• Next, a special fuel pump begins t o pump
diesel fuel from the fuel tank of the vehicle
to the combustion chambe r of the heater.
When this fuel reaches the heater, it is
mixed with the incoming air, and the mixture
is ignited by the heat from the glow plug.
When the heater is lit, a flame detector
senses the flame and shuts down the glow
plug to eliminate further drain on the
auxiliary batteries .
• The heated coo lant is circulated by the
water pump to the engine, the engine
radiator, the hot water heater co re, the front
compartment heater core and the rear
compartment heater core (located at the
base of the wardrobe closet).
• When the coolant reaches a preset
temperature, the thermostat located on the
heater control unit automatically turns on
the circulation air fans which are used to
circulate the heated air throughout the
interior of the vehicle. A temperature sensor,
located next to the thermostat, is used to
maintain the desired temperature setting.

Note: The circulation fans do not come on
until the coolant is sufficiently warm. When th·e
heater select · switch is switched off, the fuel
supply is interrupted, (hereby terminating
combustion. However, the circulating pump
and the combustion air fan continue to operate
for approximately 60 seconds as a means for
cooling the heater .
Heater Controls
The Webasto heater controls are located at eye
level Inside the side entrance to the venicle. To
operate:
Ventilate Temperature Sensor
WEflJISTD
@ r
L.E.D. · '
Thermostat
Selector Switch
FIG. 77: Webasto Control Unit Operation
• Depress the selector switch to the ''ON"
position. The heater control indicator light
will light (green).
• Turn the thermostat up to the d·eslred
heating le.vet.
• if you wish to have ventilation only, without
hea-t, depress the selector switch to the
ventilate position . The circulation fans will
come on immediately.
Note: When underway, it Is normally not
necessary to operate the Webasto heater since
the engine should supply sufficient heat
through the outlet located on the lower front of
the instrument panel . Use the heater/air
conditioning controls to control the
temperature of the air and the fan speed.
PAGE43
Page 43.max
If additional heat is needed to the rear of the
vehlcle, depress the Webasto heater selector
switch to the ventilate position.
WARNING: The Webasto heater must not be
operated in closed areas such as garages or
workshops without proper exhaust venting by
suction.
WARNING: The Webasto heater must always
be switched off when the vehicle is being
refueled .
Heater Maintenanceand Troubleshooting
Clean the openings In the combustion air and
exhaust pipes as necessary.
During warm weather, the heater should be
operated with a cold engine approximately
once every four weeks for 10 minutes.
Note: The heater is designed to switch itself
off when combustion fails to take place, the
flame goes out during operation or when the
heater gets too hot. If the heater should switch
itself off, switch the heater to the "OFF"
position an_dswitch on again. If the heater still
does not come on, contact your nearest Vixen
dealer.
In the eveht of overheating, the heater cuts out
becausethe ·overheat fuse blows. The most
common cause for this failure is lack of
sufficient coolant In the system . To have the
fuse replaced, contact your nearest Vixen
dealer.
 Fresh WaterSystem • Turn the bypass valve to the open position
(the handle will be parallel with the piping).
Fresh water for your Vixen motorhome is This will allow the fresh water to bypass the
supplied either by the vehicle's fresh water demand pump . This valve is located beneath
tank or an external pressurized source. Both the sink.
systems supply water to the sinks, lavatory, • Turn the tank shutoff valve to the closed
shower and toilet. position (the handle will cross the piping).
This wil l stop the water from entering the
City Water Connection fresh water tank . This valve is located
Always use the city water connection when beneath the sink.
parked in a campground or other area where a
city water hookup is available. The purpose of
this connection is to allow you to have
pressuri~ed fresh water to your vehicle, without
depleting the fresh water contained in the
fresh water tank of the vehicle. When using a
city water hookup, the water tank and water
pump are bypassed.

Pity Water
Connector

Bypass
Valve Open

\
FIG. 78: City Water Connector

FIG. 80: Turn Off Bypass Valve

The wate.r connection is located in .the forwatd
compartment on the driver's side of the
vehicle. This connection is used for filling the
fresh water tank as well as for connecting to • Remove the cap covering the valve and
the city water system. connect the water hose from the city water
source.
Before connecting to the city water source :
• Turn Off the demand water pump, using the
switch on the monitor/control panel located
above the stove.

Ron
tl Off

Pump
FIG. 79: Water Pump Switch FIG. 81: Remove Valve Cap

PAGE 44

Page 44.max

Note: The water system in your vehicle is
designed and checked to withstand water
pressure of up to 100 lbs. psi. However, many
sections of the country have extremely high
water pressure. If the local pressure is greater
than 100 lbs. psi., you must use a pressure
regulator to avoid damage to your vehicle's
water lines and connections. Or, you may use
the water from the on-board storage tank and
refill as necessary.
When the city water source is disconnected
from the vehicle, be certain to replace the cap
to the valve and tighten securely.
Using The On-Board System
The on-board system provides fresh water to
the sinks, lavatory, shower and toilet. Water is
stored in the fresh water tank which is located
beneath the front passenger seat, and is
pumped automatically to the water outlet by an
on-demand water pump located beneath the
sink in the galley area of the vehicle.
Filling The Water Tank
To fill the fresh water tank:
• Make certain that the bypass valve located
beneath the sink is turned to the open
position. Also verify that the shut-off valve is
open.
Bypass
Valve
Open
Tank
Shutoff
Valve
Open
FIG. 82: Open Both Valves
PAGE45
Page 45.max
• Remove the cap to the connector located in
the forward compartment on the driver's side
of the vehicle, and connect the hose from
the city water source.
• Turn on the outside water source and add
water until the water tank indicator on the
monitor/control panel indicates full, or until
fresh water begins to flow from the overflow
tube onto the ground beneath the fresh
water tank.
• When full, disconnect the city water supply.
A check valve built into the system will
prevent the water from flowing out the fill
connection.
• Turn the bypass valve to the closed position
(the handle will cross the piping).
• Turn on the demand water pump by
activating the switch located on the
monitor/control panel above the galley area.
Note: The fresh water tank has a capacity of 25
gallons. Be certain to fill to capacity before
starting on a trip and replenish as necessary.
Draining The Fresh Water System
The drains for the fresh water system are
located:
• Behind the city water connection.
• Behind the fresh water tank at the inlet.
• Under the galley sink towards the rear. There
are two valves located here.
Open the valves and allow the water to drain
until the flow stops. When the system Is empty,
return the valves to the closed position.
FIG. 83: Open Drain Valves
 Wate r Pump
The water pump is a 12-volt DC appliance,
activated by a switch located on the
monitor/control panel. The water pump is
located beneath th e sink on the driver's side of
the vehicle.
FIG. 84: Water Pump Location
When using the on-board water system, simply
open a faucet. The pump will automatically
activate and will begin to pump water from the
water tank to the open outlet. When the outlet
is closed, the pump will automatical ly
terminate its pumping action.
If the pump fails to activate when the faucet is
opened, c heck to be ce rtain that the switch
located on the monitor/control pane l is on. If
the pump still fa ils to operate, check for the
possibility of a blown fuse. See your nearest
Vixen deale r for assistance, if necessary .
If the pump continues to operate when the
faucet is closed, there may be a leak in the
water system, or the fresh water tank may be
empty. See your nearest Vixen dealer for
ass i stance, if necessary.
Bathroom Shutoff
In the event of a water leak in the lavatory,
shower, or toilet, there are two shutoffs located
in t he cabinet beneath the stove.
Shutoff
Valves
FIG . 85: Bathroom Shutofls
PAGE 46
Page 46.max
Sanitizing The Water System
Sanitize your water system using the following
procedure before initial use, after a period of
non-use and w henever the tank is suspected of
being contaminated:
• Drain the tank using the procedure
previously desc ribed . Close the drain valves.
• Prepare a chlorine solution using two (2)
gallons of water and ½ cup (4 ozs.) of liquid
househo ld bleach.
• Adjust the passenge r seat to face the rear of
the vehicle to expose the fresh water tanik.
Remove the plastic vent line from the black
fitting at the top of the tank. Then, remove
t he fitting from the tank to expose the 5/8
inch opening in the top of the tank.
• Insert a funnel into the opening and pour the
prepared solution (2 gal.) into the tank.
FIG. 86: Pour Solution Into Tank
• Replace the black fitting and tube .
• Connect an outside water source to the
water fill connector and fill the tank with
fresh water. Open all faucets and let run to
ensure that all air has been purged from the
system and that the system has been filled
with water. Then, close all faucets.
• Allow the system to stand for three (3) hours.
• Drain the system and flush with fresh water.
If a chlorine taste lingers , prepare a solution
of one (1) qt. of vinegar and five (5) gals . of
water and pour into tank. Allow this solution
to agitate for several days by vehicle motion.
Then, d rain tank and ref i ll wit h fresh wate r.
WARNING: Chlorine is poisonous. Be certain to
recap the bottle and to clean all utensils after
use.
 Hot Water Heater
Hot water is provided through the fresh water
system of the vehicle by means of a heat
exchanger located in the cabinet area beneath
the galley sink. The coil of the heat exchanger
is heated by the engine coo lant which is
warmed by the Webasto heating system or the
engine.
When hot water is needed for the shower and
sinks, t he fresh water passes through t he heat
exchange r and is heated by the transference of
heat from the coil.
Note: When hot water is desired by use of the.
Webasto (see Page 42, "Heater Operat ion ") and
heat Is not desired in the vehicle, turn the
thermostat down. This will prevent the fans
from turning on.
Drainage/Sewage System
Your vehi c le is equipped with a dra inage /
sewage sys t em that func t ions much the same
as th e system used in yo ur home. It inc ludes
drain lines from the galley sink, lavatory and
sho~er to a gray water holding tank, and a
ma rine-type toi let that empties dire c tly into a
separate was·te holding tank (referred to as the
black water tank) .
The system also includes vents whi c h carry
odors caused by drain water and waste out
through the roof while equalizing air pressure.
Equalized air pressure is needed to maintain a
water barrier against oddrs in the traps and to
ensure smooth flow and escape for the
drainage system.
Toilet
The to i let is an Aqua Magic Galaxy mar ine-type
toilet which is operated by two pedals located
near the front base of the toilet for flushing
and for adding water .
FIG. 87: Aqua Magic Galaxy Marine Tollet
PAGE47
Page 47.max
Before initial use, and after emptying the
holding tank , flush the toilet. When the bowl is
filled, pour in an 8 oz. bottle of Aqua Kem
con~entrated holding tank deodorant , or
equivalent product, to help control odors. Then ,
flush the toilet again .
To operate the toilet, step on the small pedal
to add water to the bowl. When the desired
amount has entered, release the pedal slowly.
To flush, step on the large pedal until the water
clears the bowl , then release the pedal slowly.
The toilet requires no special maintenance
other than routine cleaning. To clean , use
Thetf<_JrdAqua Bowl , or other high grade, non -
abrasive cleaner.
CAUTION: Do not use highly concentrated or
high acid content household cleaners or
scouring powder, as they may cause damage
to the seals and finish.
Holding Tanks
The gray water and black water holding tanks
should be emptied frequently , but always into a
specified dumping station. Most campgrounds
are equipped with approved dumping stations,
as are a number of service stations.
Both tanks use a common drain outlet which is
located in the storage compartment in front of
the rear wheel on the drive r's side of the
vehicle . However, each tank has a separate
dump valve.
Drain Outlet
Black Water
Tank
FIG. 88: Drain Outlet Location
 Before emptying the tanks, make certain that
the vehicle is on level ground:
• Then, remove the drain hose, which is
located in the rear storage compartment on
the driver's side of the vehicle. Confirm that
both slide handles are closed (inward).
• Remove the cap from the drain outlet, and
connect the drain hose.
• Drain the toilet waste holding tank first by
pulling the dump valve slide handle slowly
outward. When the tank has emptied, close
the slide handle.
• Next, drain the gray water tank, by pulling
the other slide handle outward. When the
tank has emptied, close the slide handle.
Note: A/ways drain the black water tank first,
since the drainage from the gray water tank
will help to flush waste material from the drain
hose.
• After both tanks have been emptied, run
approximately two (2) gallons of water into
each of the tanks and repeat the drainage
procedure.
• Place the outlet cap back on the drain outlet
and tighten securely by twisting the cap ¼
turn clockwise. Clean the drain hose by
rinsing with clear water and return the hose
to the storage compartment.
Note: When using a campsite sewer outlet, you
may leave the drain hose connected to the
drain outlet and inserted into the dumping
station, with the dump valve slide lever to the
gray water tank in the open position. However,
do not open the valve to the black water tank.
until you wish to empty the tank. If the valve ts
left in the open position, the rinse and flush
water will run off, leaving the solids to collect
and harden in the bottom of the tank.
PAGE48
Page 48.max
Drain And Toilet Care
Do not use harsh drain cleaner chemicals or
solvents in the drains. Drain cleanouts and
traps are installed at intervals to facilitate
drain line cleaning and unclogging.
To clean the toilet, use a high grade, non-
abrasive cleaner. Do not use highly
concentrated or high acid content household
cleaners or scouring powder, as they may
damage seals and finish.
If water continues to run into the toilet bowl,
check to be certain that foreign material has
not prevented the water valve blade in the
bottom of the bowl from properly seating. If
this blade cannot close completely, the water
valve will remain partially open.
If the toilet foot pedal operates harder than
normal, or if the blade sticks, apply a light film
of silicone spray onto the blade.
Note: To help prevent clogging, use only a
short fiber, rapid dissolving toilet tissue.
Wash Basin And Shower
Your vehicle is equipped with a combination
wash basin and shower. To activate the
shower, turn the water faucet on.
The shower drain is located on the floor of the
shower and should be kept clear while the
shower is in use.
To help conserve water, you may wish to turn
the shower on and completely wet yourself.
Then, turn the shower off. After soaping
yourself completely, turn the water back on
and rinse.
Note: Be certain to rinse all soap from the bath
area, and dry the walls completely with a
towel. Leave shower curtain in extended
position until dry.
 Sump Pump To. clean; remove the screw which s·ecures the
filter body and screen. Next, remove the plastic
A special sump pump is located in the oath body and filter screen. Clean the screen with a
area of the vehicle. This pump is necessary to soft brush. Ther'!, replace the screen and filter
transport the water from the shower drain to body and secure with the holding screw.
the gray water tank. If the pump is not on when Tighten as necessary.
the shower is in use, water may collect on the
floor of the shower area.
Before using the shower, activate the pump by
depressing the switch located on the
monitor/control panel. When the shower is
co.mpleted, turn th~ pump off .
The pump is located under the sink, and is
easily accessible by removing the panel on the
outside of the bath area.

Note: Check Vehicle Maintenance Schedule for

proper lubrication of sump pump.

1'.S.Ull!J,?
Pump
Access FIG. 90: Disassemble.Sump Pump Filter
~ Papel

Monitor/ControlPanel
A monitor/control panel is mounted on the
front part cif the hood cover , above th~e stove in
the galley area of the vehicle.
This panel ·is used to operate the power roof ,
sump pump', ra11g0-hood light, exhaust fan and
water pump . It al.so provides the present levels
of the .,fresh water tank, gray water tank, and
black water tank, as well as the amount .of
charge In the, auxiliary batteries.
FIG. 89: Sump Pump Locatl.on

Sump Pump Filter

The sump pump system includes a filter
located between the shower drain and the
pump . This filter is designed to filter out any ., .
sand or debris that may enter the system
·• ·=·•
through the shower drain . ·
Check and _clean this filter at least once every
three months, or mor~ fre'quently, if the shower
•
~=-
-- = ...-
I!! l!I l!I
,.::::::11•s:::::11 11::1
- ~·~~:!J~·
- - ... -
•c::::J•

is used extensively.
To access, open the side storage compartment
containing the termination outlet for the waste
disposal system , You Will see the filter FIG. 91: MonitorPanel
mechanism located beneath the vehicle .

PAGE49
Page 49.max
 PowerRoof Ope.ration
Before operating the pow~r roof, releas.e the
two ·safety latches located Just below the roof
in the forward and rear secUo.ris of the vehi<;:ie.
To operate these latches, push the handle
upward and ·awa'!/-from the handle stop , Allow
the handle to pivot d.ownwarcl, relea~ing .the
catch •.
·Next, pu·sh the :roof control switclh to the il UP"
position . This switch is located on the-left side
0¥the monitor/control panei. . Hold lhe swlte.h
in the "UP" position until tpe elevating rod is
fully extended, 1hen relea,$e.
Handle
FIG. 92: Roof'Latch
FIG. •lilf:PowerRoot c .ontrol
CAUTION: Before raising the power roof, make
certain that there are no low obstructions that
could come into contact with the roof. Also,
never aHempt to raise the power root when the
vehicle is parked in an enclosed area.
When the roof Is fully elevated , the hinged
plexiglass panel along the length .of the roof
·area should be firmly In place . The end pan.els
~re st,orl,'!dIn the roof . A~l~ase the holddown
for each panel ano lower Into position. Lock
these panels int0 place, using the locking
devices that are provided.
PAGE50
Page 50.max
No·te: FQr additlo ·n'B.Iventilation during warmer ·
weathe.r,you may raise only the acrylfc , section
of the end panels. The screens should remain
securely in place , · ·
To lower the roof , swing the end panels up and
lock Into posltlo _n. Press the roof control switch
to.the "DOWN"position and hold uritil roof is
fully closed. Then, lock the roof ~ecurely into
place, using the two safety latche .s. Engage the
latch handle to the catch . Push the handle
upward and lock on the handle stop.
WARNING:Before lowering the roof, make
certain that an vehicle occupants are clear of
the roof area and that no obstacles have been
left where they can prevent the roof from
lowering to the fully closed position .
WARNING: Never attempt to drive the vehicle
when the roof is in an open position. Wind
damage could result, or the roof could be
damaged by contacting low hanging branches
or other obstructions. To confirm that the roof
is fully closed, check to ensure 1hat the "TOP
AJAR" indicator light on the instrument panel
is off.
HoldingT~nkLevels
The test ~witch for checking the levels of the
fre-sh water, gr-ay water and black water tanks
Is located on the monito r /control panel.
AG. 94: HoJdlng Tank and Auxiliary BatteryTest
To check the level s, depress the "TEST" switch
·and hold. The holding tank Indicator llghts will
Indicate the amount of fluid in each of the
th.re.a tank$. Tq complete the check, release-tfia.
test switch.
 Note: If one or more of the tanks is empty, the Note: The sump pump must always be turned
related .holding tank indicator 1/ght wlll not on before using the shower. If the pump is not
light. turned on, wa-ter may collect in the shower
dr(J.inarea and overflow to th~ interior
compartment of the vehicle.
CAUTION: When the indicator lights indicate
that the gray water and black water tanks are
near capacity, you should empty the tanks into Range Hood Light
an approved dumping station before contin4ing The switch for the range hood light is located
to use the motorhome facilities. on the monitbr/control panel, to the right of th'e
sump pump switch.
Auxiliary Battery Test
To check the state of charge in the auxiliary
batteries, depress the "TEST" :switch located
on the monitor/control panel, and hold.
The indicator needle should move-to the green
area wtren both batteries are fully charged.

Note: Auxiliary batteries In a discharged state

wifl be recharged by way of the vehicle's
alternator when underway, or QYshore power
when connected to the vehicle . It the batteries
become fully discharged, it may be necessary
to apply a tr,ckle charge at not more than 6
amps for a total of 48 hours to restore the
batteries to a fully charged state , For charging
assistance, contact your nearest Vixen dealer. FIG. 96: Range Hood Fan and Light Control Switch

To turn the light on, push the "LIGHT" switch

Sump Pump Switch to the "ON " position . To turn the light off, push
the "LIGHT" switch to the "OFF" position.
The sump pump switch is located on the
monitor/control panel to the right of the
''TEST" switch. Range Hood Fan
The fan located in the range hood can b.e used
to c·lear smoke and 9ooking odors from the
vehicle.
The fan switch is located on the monitor/
control panel to the right of the light switch. To
operate the fan , push the "FAN" switch to the
"ON" position. To turn the fan off, push the fan
switch to the "OFF" position.

FIG. 95: Sump PumpControl Switch
To activate the sump pump, push the sump
pump switch to the "ON" position. To turn the
pump off, push the switch to the "OFF"
position.
PAGE 51
WaterPumpSwitch
The water pump switch must always be turned
on, and left •in the "ON" position, when fresh
water is needed and the v~hicle is not
connected to an outside water source. Turning
the pump on will pfessurlze the water system.
Once the system has been pressurized, the
water pump will operate only when water is
needed.

Page 51.max
 To. turn the .pump on, push the "PVMP" switch
to tiie "ON" position. This switch Is loqated to
the extreme rlgh't of the monitor/control panel.
To turn the pump Off, p,ush tlle "PUMP'' switch
to the "OFF" po.sltlon.
FIG. 97: Water PumpCont.rolSwitch
CAUTION: Do not turn th e water pump on when
the vehicle is connected to a city water supply
whi ch supplies its own water pressure. Also ,
be certa in to turn the pump off when the
vehicle is not in use.
AlcoholStove
Your vehicle is equipped with a Kenyo.n two.-
burner alco .hol stov(3', designed expressly for
mptorhome · anqma~lrie applications.
Thi;) t,>urner-sus.e alcohol vapor tot fuel. This
ftlel is produced by bolling llqult! alco,hol in tne
base ol the burner. This Is accomplished by
diverting s.Ome· of tlie heat from the flame
throtJghthe burn.erbody.
FIG. 98: Alcohpl St~ve
PAGE52
Page 52.max
Stove Operation
The prin ,cJp.al components of .the stov .e ln_clLJde
tWo burner c-oiitr.ol wheels, a ·tank assembly
with a fuel fill n lpple :and pressure relief valve ,
a pump , assembly and two bumer ass.emblles.
To ,ope.rate:
• Remove the fuel fill nipple, lo.cated at the
rear center of the stove, and fill the tar-ik
approximately 3/4 full with dei1~tured alcohol,
using a funnel. Replace the cap and tighten
·snugly,
• Ne,xt, pump the pump 15 t~ 20 tlme ·s t~
pressurize the tank . The pump ls located at
the front center •of the stove.
• Open the burne;r by. moving t.t,e. burner
control wheel three pushes to the left. This
will allow the liquid alcohol t© flow from the
tank to the Indenta tio n In the cup at the
base of the li>urner. After approxlmately ·ttire .e
see0nds, close the burner by turning the
burner control wheel to the extrtime right
position. · · · ·
• With the burner still , off, ignite the alcohel in
the priming e;up, using a match. When the
priming aJc;ohol h1;1i,been c.omp'lelely
consumed, open the burner by moving the
.control wh·e.el three pushes to the left. Th.en,
llgh1 th.e vaporized alcohol at the burn'er .cap.
WARNING : Use water to extingu i sh alcohol
fires. Smother grease fires or use a class B tire
extinguisher .
Fuel Requirements
The burners are designed to use 95%
denatured et hyl alcoho l, which i s commerc ially
available as st ove fuel or denatured alcoho l
she llac t hin ner. The stove w ill also operate
with 91 % isopropy l alcohol con t ain ing less
than .003-G/oby weigh t non-volati le mater ial.
CAUTION: Do not use wood alcoho l (methanol)
or rubbing alcohol as they will not burn
satisfactorily and the burners will become
clogged.
CAUTION: Flare-up may occur during
preheating ii burner is opened before
preheating is completed, and the burner is not
hot enough. If flare-up occurs, shut off burner,
allow flame to go out, then preheat again
following the preceding instructions.
This condit ion Is a natu ral cons _equence of the
priming process and is usua lly not serious.
• Adjust the burne r flame by mov ing t he
burne r contro l wheel sligh tl y to the right or
1.eft . When fi n ished cooking , turn off t he
burner by pus hing the control w heel to the
extreme righ t and release the pressure In the
tank by loosen Ing the fi ll cap .
WARNING:The fuel fill nipple has a special
cap which includes a pressure relief valve to
prevent excessive pressure buildup in the tank.
This cap must never be replaced with a cap of
another type.

HOW TO LIGHT YOUR KENYON ALCOHOL STOVE

1 FILL TANK 2 PUMP

FILL 3/4 FULL WITH ALCOHOL PUMP 15•20 TIMES
TO PRESSURIZE TANK

3 PREHEAT BURNER 4 LIGHT BURNER

~
WHEN PRIMING AL COHOL
OPENVALVE ~ IS COMPLETELY
MOMENTARI LY
CONSUMED
TO FILL PRIM!
OPEN VALVE
CUP ¾ FULL
THEN . . .
CLOSE VALVE

AND LIGHT
VAPORIZEDALCOHO L

!FIG. 98a: Alco hol Stove

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Cleaning The Burner • If the burner lights properly, or goes out after
a short time, you may not have pumped
To clean the burner, move the burner control
wheel to the extreme left position, and then enough or the filler cap may be leaking. As
back to the center operating posUlon. This necessary, contact your Vixen dealer for the
action causes a small wire, bullt into the replacement of the rubber gasket or relief
burner mechanism, lo be pushed through the valve assembly.
burner nozzle, removing any dirt which may • If no alcohol comes through the burner when
have accumulated. you attempt to prime, you have either no
Cleaning is normally performed when the pressure in the tank, or the filter has been
clogged by dirty alcohol.
burner is operating, and will often cause the
flame to go out. If so, relight the burner when
the cleaning has been completed. NorcoldRefrigerator
Malntalning Your Stove Your vehicle is equipped with a Norcold
The following information is intended to help 4 cubic foot refrigerator that operates on
you to obtain the maximum performance from 12-volt DC power as supplied by the auxiliary
your stove: batteries.
• A properly operatir,g burner will have a blue Microwave
flame with severaj rows of little flame tips. Oven
There should not be a yellow tip on the
flame. Normally, this yellow tip woufd
Indicate an Improper air-fuel ratio.
• To correct, with the burner lit, hold the
burner flange with a pair of pliers and rotate
the flange left or right until the yellow flame
is eliminated.
• It you notice a small flame where the control
stem enters the burner, tighten the gland nut
slightly until the flame disappears. This
adjustment may have to be made after the
first few hours of operation, but should
require lfery Iittle attention thereafter.
• If the pump bounces back when you try to
purnp, or if the pump handle is pushed all Relrigerator
the way out after a pump stroke, the check
valve at the base of the pump may be
defective. If.so, this replacement will require FIG. 98b: Norcold Refrigerator
the use of a special tool. Contact your
nearest Vixen dealer if you should need
assistance.
• If you pump, and get little or no pressure in
the tank, the pump U-cup may be defective.
Contact .your neaJest Vixen dealer I or
ass lstance.

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When underway, these batteries are char,ged by
way of the vehicle's alternator. When the
vehicle is stopped and connected to shore
power, the batteries are charged by way of
input from the power inverter.
Note: ff the vehicle is stopped and not
connected to shore power, the refrigerator will
continue to operate and will cause a drain on
the auxiliary ba.ttery system. Under these
conditions, be certain to turn the refrigerator
off to avoid unnecessary battery discharge.
WARNING: On some models, you may find a
110,voltAC connector attached to the rear of
the refrigerator. Under no circumstances
should this connector be plugged into a 110
outlet, since this could cause the Heart
Interface to overloadwhen the microwaveoven
is used.
Refrigerator Operation
A single temperature control thermostat
controls the operation of the refrigerator. The
:control knob is located at the upper right hand
and to the rear of the food compartment.
The knob is marked "OFF, 1-2-3-4-5-6-7." The
nearer the dial is set to "7 ," the colder the
temperature will become inside the cabinet.
Once the desired temperature is reached, the
thermostat will automatically maintain the
temperature.
Before operating the refriger~tor for the first
time, check to ensure that the thermostat is
turned to the "OFF" position. Next, turn the
thermostat to the number "3'' setting. The unit
should begin to operate. After approximately
five minutes of operation, open the freezer
compartment door and place your hancj at the
upper rear corner of the top evaporator plate. If
you notice a cooling effect at this point, the
refrigerator is operating properly.
Next, close the refrigerator door and allow the
unit to operate until it cycles or shuts itself off.
This lndlcate .s that the thermostat is operating
properly.
If you do not intend to use the refrigerator at
this time, turn the thermostat control to the
"OFF 1' position.
PAGE 55
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Note: When not in use, the refrigerator should
be emptied, . cleaned and dtied. The door
should be left ajar. When you intend to store
food in the refrigerator, you should first ensure
that the vehicle is connected to shore power
before turning the refrigerator on. If the vehicle
is not connected to shore power, wait until
approximately one hour before your departure
time before turning the unit on. This modest
drain on your auxiliary batteries can easily be
recovered once the engine is operating and the
alternator is functioning to recharge the
batteries.
Defrosting The Refrigerator
To defrost the unit, set the thermostat to the
"OFF" position. After the frost has melted,
wipe the compartment plates with a soft .r dry
cloth.
Maintaining Your Refrigerator
• Cleaning box and door - Wipe with a .soft,
dry cloth. To remove dirt, use a cloth
moistened by a warm neutral detergent
solution. Never use hot water. After cleaning ,
wipe with a dry cloth.
• Gasket (door cus.hion) - Wipe away dirt
with a. soft cloth moistened by a neutral
detergent. Do not soak the cloth excessively.
If water gets inside, the insulating effect
may be temporar i ly impaired.
• Attachments - Wash all attachments in
soapsuds. Rinse and wipe clean with a dry
cloth.
CAUTION: Never use a brush, powder soap,
cleanser, acid benzine, gasoline or thinner to
clean the refrigerator. These items can leave
scratches on the coating.
Microwave Oven
A Sharp microwave oven is optional equipment
for your Vixen motorhome.
This microwave oven is located above the
refrigerator. It can be used to defrost, simmer
or cook foods in less Ume than other cooking
methods. However, before attempting to use
the oven, you should become thoroughly
familiar with the manufacturer's operating
manual which is packed, along with a
cookbook and Owner's Registration Card,
inside the unit.

CAUTION: Be certain to remove all packaging
materials before attempting to operate the
microwave oven.
Tb set the clock which appears at the top of
the control panel, first touch the
"STOP/CLEAR" pad on the control panel. Then
touch the "CLOCK'' pad, and the clock display
wi II register "O." ·

Microwave Oven Controls
The control panel for the oven is located on the
right front of the unit. These controls are
shown on the following illustration and are
explained in detail in the manufacturer's
operating manual.
Enter the correct time of day by touching the
"NUMBER" pads. For example, if you wish to
set a time of 12:37 (A.M. or P.M.), touch the
pads numbered 1, 2, 3, 7 in order. To lock in the
time, touch the "CLOCK" pad once again.

DISPLAYWINDOW
Indicator llghts for variable cooking and COOK.

LIGHTED DIGITAL DISPLAY

$hows readout of cooking time or time of day.

COOK

NUMBER PADS
Touch to enter cooking time or clock time.

I 2 3
STOP/CLEAR PAD
Touch to erase during programming. Touch once to
l( 5 5 stop operation of oven during cooking; touch twice
to cancel cooking program.
n
I 8 9
CLOCK n STOP
u ciTAR

CLOCKPAD
Touch to set clock.
LOW MEO LOW MEO
OE.FROST

VARIABLECOOKING CONTROL PADS

MEO HIGH HIGH
Touch to select power setting. If not touched, HIGH
la automatically selected.

$TART

START PAD
Touch to start oven.

OPENDOOR
MINUTEPLUSPAD
Touch to cook for one mlmute at HIGH or Increase
one minute during cooking.

DOOR OPEN BUTTON

Push to open door.

PAGE56
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Note: This is a 12 hour clock If you attempt to
set an incorrect time (such as 8:65 or 13:00) an
"ERROR" message and the incorrect time wi/f
flash on the display. Ta erase the error, touch
the "STOP/CLEAR" par:/, and enter the correct
time, following the procedures previously
outlined.
ff you accidentally enter more than four
numbers when setting the time, the last four
numbers touched will appear on the display.
Touch the "STOP/CLEAR" pad and repeat the
clock setting procedure.
Note: The power inverter has a load demand
circuit to save power when not in use. To
operate an appliance such as the microwave
oven, you may have to' apply an additional
electrical load in order to activate the inverter.
This can be accomplished by turning on any
small appliance, using any of the motorhome
outlets, before turning on the oven. You may
turn the appliance oft after the oven ts in
operation.
Before beginning a vacation or any extended
trip, instruct all passen .gers on the use of all
safety devices contained within the vehicle,
including the location and operation of the fi re
extinguisher.
PassengerSeats
The front passenger seat is designed to move
forward and b~ck for maximum seating
comfort. It also pivots to face rearward,
providing seating for two at the pedestal table
and folds flat to form a portion of the forwar,d
sleeping area.
The tear pass ·enger seat can also be folded flat
to form the remaining portion of the forward
sleeping area.
To slide the front passenger seat forward or
backward,locate the seat track release lever
on the lower right hand corner of the seat and
pull to the left. Slide the seat to the desired
position, and release the lever. The seat should
remain firmly locked in position.

Fire Extinguisher
A dry chemical fire extinguisher is located near
the floor, just forward of the side entrance to
the vehicle.

FIG. 100: Passenger Seat Adjustment

FIG. 99: Fire Extinguisher

You should become thoroughly familiar with

the operating procedures as displayed on the
side of the extinguisher, and ensure that the
unit is inspected at least once monthly In
accordance with National Fire Protection
Associat ion (N FPA) recommendations as
stated on the label. Also, inspect the pressure
gauge at least once monthly to confirm that
the unit is fully charged.

FIG. 100a: Lower Seat To Flat Po.sltion

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 To pivot the seat, locate the seatback release When not in use, the table and pedestals can
handle on the lower left side of the · seat be disassembled and stored on the floor or in
bottom. Pull the. handle and pivot the seat so one of the storage areas.
that it faces rearward. Adjust the seat position
on the seat tracks by following the procedures CAUTION: If the vehicle is in use, and the table
outlined above. has been disassembled, make certain that the
To fold the seats flat, locate the seat back table top and legs are properly secured.
release handle on the left lower seat bottom .
Pull the handle and lower the seat back. The
two seats together will form a .bed for the
forward sleeping area.

FIG. 101: Pull Handle To Pivot Seat

FIG. 103: Pedestal Table

SleepingAccommodations
Your vehicle comes equipped with two sleeping
areas: the forward sleeping area which is
accomplished by pivoting and folding the
passenger seats as previously described, and
the rear sleeping area.
The rear sleeping area is equipped with a full-
size double mattress. Beneath this mattress is
a panel that is used to gain access to the
engine compartment.

CAUTION: Whenever the engine access panel

FIG. 1oz:Passenger Seats Lowered has been removed and reinstalled, make
certain that all seals are in place and that the
panel has been properly secured.
Pedestal Table
A pedestal table is located between the two
passenger seats. The table is secured by two
legs which are inserted into sockets located on
the bottom side of the table and on the floor.
To assemble, insert the legs into the floor
base. Then, lower the table support brackets
onto the legs.
The two sides of the table can be folded
upward to allow additional room for ease of
entry and seating comfort. When the sides are
in a flat position, the recessed areas built into
the table top can be used to hold cups or
glasses. FIG. 104: Rear Sleeping Area

PAGE58
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 StorageCompartments • Forward Storage Compartment - Located af
the front of the vehicle. To access, open with
The following storage areas are provided inside key and raise access door.
your vehicle:
• Wardrobe - Full-length c.loset loca ted
immed iately to the left of the passenger
entrance. Includes a full-length m irror.
• Storage Cabinet - Built-In cabinet loca ted
immediately aft of the wardrobe. Includes
four removeable wire baskets.
• Galley Cabinet - Located above the ga lley
sink. Can be used for storing dinnerware, dry
foods, canned food, etc.
• Sink Cabinets - Located beneath the sink.
Can be used fo r storing household supplies ,
cl eaning agents, etc .
• Dinette Storage - Located beneath the
pedes ta l table. To access, disassemb le and
remove the table and legs. Grasp the pull
FIG . 107: Unlocking Front Storage Compartment
handle and pull upward. Can be used for
m isce llaneous storage.
Interior Lighting
Your vehicle is equipped with three overhead
light fixtures i n the foll owing locations:
• Between the dr iver' s and passenger's seat
• Above the dining area
• On the wall at;>ovethe rear sleeping
compartment
Each fixture incl udes two adjustable reading
lights and one fixed area light. Each light is
controlled by a switch located immediately
above the light.
FIG . 105: Storage Cabinet

The following storage areas can be accessed

from outside the vehicle:
• Side Storage Compartments - Located on
ei ther side towards the rear of the vehicle.
To access, unlock with key. Then, release
the two latches on either side of the panel

•r
and lift panel out of bottom groo ve.

l
~

FIG. 108: I nterlor Lights

FIG. 106: Side Storage Panel Removal

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The fixture located between the driver is and
passenger 's. seats will automatically light when
the driver or pas.senger doors are opened. This
light can also be activate .d by turning the light
control switch on the instrument p:anel to the
full counterclockwise position.
Headlamp
Switch
FIG. 109: A~tlvaling Front Interior Light
There are also several small .area ltghts located
Just above the floor in the rear portion ·of the
vehicle. These lights are activated by a switch
lecate:a immea.iately inside the side door,
below thEtheater controls.
The bath area has a lig.ht fixture on the outside
wall and the vent ho'od has a built-in light for
the g_alley area.
On IQ
Off u
:6
FIG. 110: Floor Light Switch
PAGE60
Page 60.max
Windows
Fresh air Is prpi;,ided by several windows
located throughout the vehicle.
The two larger -windows in th{;l dining and
galie .y areas have built-in screens and can be
mov.ed horizontally to ·open or close . To open,,
pull to release lock and slide . To close ., slide ·10
closed position until lock snaps into place .
To remove the sc:,een, grasp the s.cr~eni-nthe·
center of th.e frame. Carefully flex the screen,
pulling one side out of the track. Reverse the
procedl.Jre for reinstallation .
other windows provide fresh atr to the driver,
the passenge 'rs ahd the rear sleeping area.
R~lease the lock ah:d s.lide up to open. Slide
down to close _ a_nd lock into position.
EmergencyExit Window
Your vehicle is equipped With a one piece
stationary rear window which functions as an
esc~pe exit in the event of ;:in ~m~rgency.
To remove, pu II the ring located midway at the
bottom of the window _, and remove the cord.
Push hard against the window comers from
inside the vehicle. The window should fall to
the ground outside the vehicle, leaving
sufficie .nt ·room for an adult to e.xit.
WARNING: Know the location and operation of
the emergency exit window. Use the window
for emergency exit only. Do not test for proper
operation. Use care when exiting through the
window as broken glass may be present in the
exit area.
FIG. 111: Emergency Window
 Mini Blinds
The windows in the dining, galley and bedroom
areas are equipped with mini blinds for added
privacy.
These blinds can be adjusted to open and
close or can be raised and lowered. To open or
close, rotate the control handle. To raise or
lower, pull the cord to the left to release the
locking mechanism and adjust to desired
height. Pull cord to the right to lock into
position.
Note: To avoid obstructing the visibility of the
driver, the privacy curtain should be completely
removed when the vehicle is in motion.
Carpetingand Upholstery
Your vehicle is carpeted throughout. This
carpeting should be swept or vacuumed daily
when the vehicle is in use.
If the carpeting should become soiled,
shampoo with a good commercial carpet
cleaner. Avoid the use of ordinary detergents or
soap.
Also vacuum the upholstery on a regular basis.
Vacuuming will help to keep the colors bright
and will prolong wear.
If the upholstery becomes soiled, clean with a
quality upholstery shampoo, following the
instructions from the manufacturer.

FIG. 112: Opening and Closing Mini Blinds

To clean the blinds, vacuum or wipe with damp

cloth.

PrivacyCurtains FIG.113: Vacuum Carpet On A Regular Basis

Your vehicle includes a privacy curtain which is

used to cover the inside of the front portion of
the vehicle, and a smaller curtain used to cover
the window on the side door. These curtains
are attached by velcro fasteners.
To install the curtain for the front portion of the
vehicle, begin with the fastener located above
the passenger's window. Press the velcro
fastener on the curtain against the velcro
fastener above the window. Continue this
process as you proceed across the windshield
area to the last fastener above the driver's
window.
Install the smaller curtain in a similar manner.
To clean, remove and machine wash or have
dry cleaned.

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 VEHICLE MAINTENANCE
On the following pages you will find the
recommended maintenance service charts for
your Vixen 21 motorhome, along with a
description of the operations to be performed
at each maintenance interval.
Two maintenance schedules are provided; one
covers engine and chassis components, and
the other covers body components and
accessories. Each schedule defines those
maintenance operations which should be
performed at the prescribed interval in order to
retain the safety, durability and performance
level of your vehicle.
VEHICLE MAINTENANCE
SCHEDULE
• ENGINE/CHASSIS
• BODY/ACCESSORIES
Contains Important Information
Covering The Proper Maintenance
Of Your Vixen 21 Motorhome
V
FIG. 114: Vixen Vehicle Maintenance Schedule
PAGE 62
Page 62.max
Note: The cost of all recommended
maintenance services is the responsibility of
the owner.
Note: It is the responsibility of the owner to
ensure that the vehicle is properly maintained
In accordance with these schedules. Failure to
do so could affect the coverage provided under
the Vixen 12-Month/12,000-Mile New Vehicle
Limited Warranty, Emissions Control System
Warranty, or any other warranties or service
contracts covering the vehicle.
Your Vixen dealer can help you to properly
maintain your vehicle. He has the qualified
service personnel, special tools and equipment
to perform all service and maintenance
operations in an expert manner.
Extreme DrivingConditions
If your vehicle is operated under extreme
driving conditions such as frequent operation
on dusty roads, frequent long periods of engine
idling or frequent short trips of less than 15
miles, or carrying heavy loads, more frequent
maintenance may be required.
If your vehicle is subject to these or any other
extreme operating conditions, you should
contact your authorized Vixen dealer for
recommendations concerning adequate
maintenance.
MaintenanceRecords
A Vehicle Maintenance Schedule which
contains a Maintenance Service Record is
included in your portfolio of materials.
Please ensure that all maintenance services
which are performed are properly recorded by
your servicing de.aler. If you choose to perform
your own maintenance, please retain sufficient
evidence of the work that was performed and
record the date and mileage of the service on
the Maintenance Service Record.

- 1'-:,..:

-198fj VIXEN 21
MAINTENANCE SERVICE RECORD

1986 VIXEN 21 MAINTENANCE SERVICE RECORD - ENGINE/CHASSIS

5,000 Miles 10,000 MIies 15,000 MIies 20,000 MIies 25,000 MIies 30,000 MIies

Dale MIieage Date Mileage Date Mlllfage Dale Mileage Date MIieage Date MIieage

35,000 MIies 40 1000 Miles 45,000 Miles 50,000 MIies 55,000 Miles 60,000 MIies

Dale Mfleage Date Mileage Data Mileage Date Mileage Date Mileage Data MIieage

FIG. 115: Vixen Maintenance Service Record

Specificationsand Capacities
Your Vehicle Maintenance Schedule also
contains a listing of Specifications and
Capacities for your Vixen 21 motorhome.
Please refer to this information (see chart on
following page) while performing any needed
service or maintenance work.

PAGE 63
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 -SPECIFICATIONS-
ENGINE -
Type . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . ......... 6 cylinder, in-line, 4 cycle, overhead valve, water cooled
Bore........ ............................. .......... ............... ............... 3.150in.(80 mm)
Stroke . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . ................... .............. . .... 3.189 in. (81 mm)
Displacement . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .......... . .. 149cu. in. (2443 cc)
Compression ratio . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . ......................................... . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 22: 1
Horsepower. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . ..... ........................ .......... 114 (85 kw) at 4800 rpm
Minimum torque . . . . . . . . . . . . . ... ........................................ 150Ib. ft. (210 N•m) at2400 rpm
Compression pressure. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 348 psi (2400 kPa)
Valve clearance (cold engine) intake ............................................................ 0.012 in. (0.3 mm)
exhaust . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .... 0.012 in. (0.3 mm)
(warm engine) intake ........................................................... 0.014 in. (0.35 mm)
exhaust . . . . . . . ................. .............. . . 0.014 in. (0.35 mm)
Weight . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 433 lbs. (196.4 kg) dry

FUEL SYSTEM -
Injection firing order. . . . . . . . . . . .......... ............ .......... 153 6 24
ldlespeed................................... ......................... 750-BOOrpm
Fast idle (cold start)speed . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . ............ 900-1050 rpm
Injection pump timing (engine running) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 5.0 • ± 1.5 BTC at 1500 rpm
(engine off)- timing belt less than 10,000 miles . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 0.65 ± 0.04 mm
timing belt over 10,000 miles. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .............. 0.63 ± 0.04 mm
Turbocharger. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Air Research Model T-3
Fuel injection pump. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . distributor pattern type
Fuel injection pump filter, Vixen No. 1106 00 693, BMW No. 1351 224 0392 . .......... . ............ Sealed in-line filter
Fuel requirement . . . . ............ . . .. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . No. 2-0 or winterized No. 2-0 if operated below 20°F.
Fuel filter, Vixen No. 110800 012, BMW No. 1332 2241303............ . . with water separator and replaceable element
Air cleaner, Vixen No. 1106 00 038, Nelson No. 70222-A . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . ............... single replaceable element
Glow plug . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . automatic operating time dependent upon coolant temperature

TRANSAXLE-
Type ..................................... . 5-speed manual with overdrive
Gear ratios rev .. 282 3rd .724
1st .297 4th .964
2nd .485 5th 1.218
Final drive ratio ......................... . ..................... 9/35 3.89:1

COOLING SYSTEM -
Type. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Thermostat.................
Radiator . . . . . . . . . .
Pressure cap . . . . . . .
Belt Part Numbers:
Alternator ...........
Air Conditioning ......
Fan ................
Power Steering ......
. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . closed (constant air bleed) with auxiliary heater for cold weather operation
. ......................................... opening starts 176° ± 3°F(B0° ± 1.5°C)
. . . . . . . .. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . heavy duty vertical flow
............ ............ .......... 19 pound, located on expansion bottle
. . BMW 2240 6134
. . BMW 1706 826
. . ..... Dayco 15370
. . ... Dayco15610

ALTERNATOR .................................. ................ heavy duty belt driven type, 62 amps. (idle) 115 amps. (55 mph)
REGULATOR............................................................. . externally mounted Model 6116G
BATTERY ........................ . 12 volt maintenance-free

STARTER MOTOR ............................................................ . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . gear reduction type

TIRES ............................ . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . all season radials P235/75R 15

FLUIDS & LUBRICANTS -

Engine oil ......................................... ..........
. Mobil 1 or equivalent up to 5,000 miles, then
Grade SF/CD (see viscosity/temperature chart in owner's manual)
Engine oil filter with "O" ring, Vixen No. 1106 00 661, BMW No. 1142 224 1165 . . . . . . . . . . canister with replaceable paper element
Coolant. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 50-50 solution of waterand Prestone II or other brand with Alugard 340-2TM on the label
Transaxle . . . . . . . . . . . . . . ................................ Grade API GL5 BOW-90in hot climates
75W below 14°F
Power steering .......................... . .......... power steering fluid with Dexron
Power brakes . . . . . . . . . ........ . . . . . . . Delco Supreme II fluid, DOT 3 or equivalent
Hydraulic clutch .................... . Delco Supreme II fluid, DOT 3 or equivalent
Air conditioning refrigerant ... . . ............... R·12

-CAPACITIES-
ENGINE OIL (w/fllter change) . 7.5 qts. (7.0 L) wINDSHIELD WASHER . 64oz.
ENGINE OIL PRESSURE. 57-85 psi at 4000 rpm AIR CONDITIONING 4.5 pounds
COOLING SYSTEM ...... . 5gallons FRESHWATER TANK . . . .. ... . 25gallons
TRANSAXLE (Model UN-1) ............. 3.6 qts. GREYWATERTANK . .................. 1Bgallons
FUEL TANK ..................... . 23gallons BLACK WATER TANK . . ........ . 12 gallons

FIG. 116: Vixen Specifications and Capacities

PAGE64
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Non-Sch,du/edMaintenance
Certain maintenance services ma.yha:ve to be
performed on a non.scheduled basis,
depending upon driving conditions, weather,
personal driving habits and a vliri.ety of oth 'er
lacto ·rs.
These services co:uld Include such items as
fuel system cleijnlng, t'tte removl?I of c~rbon
deposits from the engine., the refi.ghtenlngof
loose p·arts and connections or the
replacement of brake linings, light bulbs, drive
belts, noses, windshield wip.er blades and o1her
wear ovt items.
The nee:d. for these s·erviC'e.s is usually ·
indi .catE1dby a change in the driveability of the
vehicle or -a c:hange in lh!3 perfprmance or
appearance of the component requiring
attention. ·
It rsyour responsibility ·to identify these
condltions as they occur' and to have lhe
po ndition corr~cted Qn a timely bas1s. Unless
eipressly coverE1(jby the Vi:xen New Vehicle
Limited .Warranty, the cost of these services
are the responsibfllty of the owner.

,-,1LES{Thousa~as)'
1. Change·Engine Oil • . • •
..•
. • • . .•
;2. Chaoge Engine OilFilter •· :o ,. • .
~

• ,; .
·3. Fluid C,heqk and Dies~I Fuel Filter [!rain
'4, Battijry Check • •
C
5 . .·
.6.
I n Tl
q 1p -.nt· . era)ional Check . .•
~

rf e Belt .neck • •
le e neck and Adjust
,9_ Jnihsax1e,/Flnal Drlv Fl G an e
• . .
, 0. Oh.ItchOpe,talional Chee . ...
•· ion Ch~ok • •
• .• •
13 . lntal<e,and 'El<haustValves- Adjust • • • • i,

14 . FrontWheal Bearings - R/ilMbk • •

• •
16. Exhaust System·Check :o ii

17. Diesel Engine Tun1rUp and Alter Ch~rt e;

.
i,

1:8. Air ~tearier Element - R!!PIB~-

f9. Tl~hleh Englne/TransaxleMountings •
:to.ChangeToothedTiming. Belt ancjA/C.13&1t
1. c5 ft · iqn Check .Annually, prlorto cold we.ath.J!r
i~. Qhas,si
.$ Li,ibrication Every 12 monthsor 10,000 .miles•
23. CoolingSystem Service - Replace Coolant
• Applies ·10 5,000 mill!' i(erviq~ only.
FIG. 117: Vixen Ma·lnlel!ance:Service Chart

PAGE65·
Page 65.max
 Maintenance ServiceOperations-
Engine/Chassis
Ch,mge Engine Oil and Oil Filter
Ch~nge the engine oil and oil filter at least
once every 5,000 miles. If the vehicle is stored
for the winter or tor extended periods, change
the oil and filter both before and after storage.
To change the oil and filter:
• Allow the engine to run until warm. Then,
unscrew the oil drain plug and washer at the
bottom right of the oil sump, using a 17mm
wrench.
• Allow the oil to drain completely.
• Unscrew the oil filter drain plug at the lower
rear of the oil filter canister.
• Allow the oil to drain completely.
• Install the oil filter cover and tighten nuts to
15-18 ft-lbs.
• Install the oil filter drain plug and tighten to
15-17 ft-lbs.
• Replace the engihe drain plug and washer
and tighten to 24-26 ft-lbs.
• Refill the crankcase with 7.5 qts. of SF/CD
motor oil (6.75 qts. without filter). Refer to
the adjacent viscosity/temperature chart for
the ·oil grade best suited for your operating
conditions.
Note: When adding oil to the engine, it may be
necessary to use an oil fill container with a
flexible tube to properly access the crankcase.
ALL OILS LISTED BELOW ARE SF/CD GRADE
SAE 20W-20 I
"Recommended For
Improved Low
Temperature Starting

-l I o I oI I I ~o I l ·c
-30
2~
-20 -10
2~ 4~
10
6~
20 30
1rio
40
°F
-40
FIG. 120: Engine Lubricant Specillcatlons

FIG. 118: 011FIiter Drain Plug

• Remove the two nuts attaching the oil filter
cover and remove the cover. Remove the
replaceable paper element and "O" ring.
Replace the element and "O" ring with Vixen
part number 110600661 (BMW part number
11422241165).
Fluid Check and Diesel Fuel Filter Change
Check the engine oil, transaxJe, power steering,
brake, clutch, coolant and windshield washer
fluid levels at least once every 5,000 miles.
Check all systems for leaks and correct as
necessary. Also drain fuel filter water
separator.

Engine Oil
The engine oil dipstick is located at the top
rear of the engine and is accessible through
the engine compartment door at the rear of the
vehicle.

FIG. 119: 011FIiter Cover and Element

PAGE 66
Page 66.max
 Remove the dipstick 1 and wipe with a clean
cloth. Reinsert the dipstick until fully seated.
Remove and check the oil level. The reading
should be at the "FULL" mark or in the safe
range. Add oil as needed.
FIG. 121: Engine 011 Dipstick
Note: The engine is filled with Mobil 1 motor
oil at the factory. Mobil 1 is a high grade
synthetic motor oil . If oil must be added before
the first oil change , use only Mobil 1, or
equivalent motor oil . For the correct viscosity ,
see FIG. 120, Page 66.
Transaxle Fluid
The fill plug tor the transax le fluid is located
on the right side of the transax le assembly,
and is accessible from beneath the vehicle.
FIG. 122: Transaxle FIii Plug
To check the fluid level, place the vehicle on
an approved lift. Remove the fill plug and
check the fluid level. When properly filled, the
fluid should be just below the fill plug opening.
Add fluid as needed . Use grade API GL5
B0W-90 transmission fluid (75W below 14
degrees F).
PAGE67
Page 67.max
PowerSteering Fluid
The power steer ing fluid reservoir is located
inside the engine compartment forward of the
drive belts.
To check the fluid level, unscrew the
combination reservoi r cap/dipstick and inspect
the fluid level reading. If the engine is cold, the
level should be at the "COLD" level mark. If
the engine is hot, the level should be at the
" HOT'' level mark.
Add f luid as needed. Use powe r steering fluid
with Dexron. or equivalent.
FIG. 123: Power Steering Reservoir
Brake Fluid
The brake flu id master cylinder is located in
the front storage compartment on the driver's
side of the vehicle. The fluid level indicators
are molded into the left side of the reservoir.
Use the following procedure for checking the
fluid level:
• Turn the ignition to the "OFF" position.
• Pump the brake pedal ten times.
• Check the fluid level at the reservoir. The
reservoir should be approximate ly ¾ full.
• Add fluid as needed. Use Delco Supreme II,
DOT 3 brake fluid, or equivalent.
Brake Fluid Reservoir
!Ill!~~
Front View Driver Side View
FIG. 124: Brake Fluid Level
 Clutch Fluid
The clutch fluid reservoir is located n,the front
storage compartment on the driver's side of
the vehicle.
.Clutch
Reservoir
FIG. 12&: .Clutch Fluid Reservoir
Inspect the fluid level through the transparent
reservoir bottle. The bottle should be
approximately ¾ full.
Add fluid as needed. Use· Delc.o Supreme II,
DOT 3 brake fluid, or equivalent.
Engine Coolant
ihe engine c.oolant expansion tank is located
in the front storage compartment on the
pass.enger's side of the vehicle.
Inspect the flµid level through the transparent
bottle. The fluid should be at the "FULL" mark
as indicated on the outside of the bottle.
FIG. 126: Coolant Expansion Tank
Add coolant as needed. Use a 50-50 solution of
wate r and Prestone 11,or other brand with
Alugard 340-2 on the label.
Windshi:eld washer Fluid
The windshield washer fluid reservoir is
located in the front storage compartment on
th.e passenger"s side of the vehicle.
PAGE68
Page 68.max
Inspect the transparerit bottle to confirm that
the reservoir is full. Add fluid as needed. In
cold weather, use only a washer solvent with a
low freezing point.
FIG. 127: Windshield Washer Reservoir
Fuel Filter Water Separator
The fuel system use.d on your vehicle includes
a water separator to prevent .water contained in
the fuel from entering the injector pump and
fuel injectors which could result in serious
damage to these component$.
ihe water that is purged from the fuel
accumulates i'n the bottom of the separator
unit 1 and must be drained on a regular basis, or
whe never the . "WATER-IN-FUEL" light indicates
that there is excessive water in the water
separator.
The unit can be accessed from under the
vehicle, just forward of the rear bumper. To
drain the filter:
• Place the ignition key in the "OFF" position.
• Place an appropriate ·container benea:th the
filter to capture the tluic;l.
• Open the drain valve on the bottom of the
filter by pushing up on the spring loaded
nipple.
• When all oi the water has drained and diesel
fuel begins to, flow, release the nipple to
close the valve.
,_____ Fllter
Pump
Fuel Heater
Sem,or
Water
Sensor
FIG:.12~:Fuel FIiter Assembly
 Battery Check
Check the chassis and auxiliary batteries at
least once every 5,000 miles.
The chassis battery can be accessed through
the rear rocker panel door on the passenger's
side of the vehicle.
Wheel and Tire Check
Check the wheels and tires for damage or wear
at least once every 5,000 miles. If unusual wear
patterns are evident, you may wish to have
your tire balance and/or front-end alignment
checked by your servicing Vixen dealer .
Tire pressures should be maintained at 28-32
psi. The spare tire, which is located in the front
storage compartment, should be maintained at
32 psi. When extra weight is added to the
vehicle, tire pressures must be increased to
maintain vehicle stablity. Refer to the vehicle
label located on the driver's door frame.
The i'nformation indicated on the sticker is:
• GVWR.
• Maximum weight for front and rear.
• Tire and wheel size.
• Maximum tire pressure cold.
• Vehicle I.D_ number.

MANUFA~ ,UIIED 8't'.: D~TE,

FIG. 129; Chassis Battery Access VIXEN MOTOR CO MPAN Y

INC . VEHICLE WFO. 8Y: DATE:

REAR
The auxiliary batteries can be accessed nus vEHl"CL.£CONFORMS
FRONT INTERMEDIATE
3250
_/ CAWR
TO ALl APPLICABLE 3250 / MES
through the battery access door from Inside FEDE"-'L
MOTORVEHICLESAFETY
P235175R15 P23517SR15 AIMS

the vehicle. .STlNILIRDSIN E"EC'r IN,

DAT£
15XU>
3S
15XU
3S
PSICOLO
~NGLE
J
PSI COLO
GVWR e500 OUAL
VEHICL£LD. VIXEN21 IIIOOEL
NUM BER I NUMBER
TYPE MULTIPURPOSE PASSENGER VEHIClE ._

FIG. 130a: Vehicle Label

For maximum tire life, you may wish to have

your tires rotated on a regular basis. Refer to
the illustrations on this page for the
recommended rotation methods.
Auxiliary
~--- Battery
Access
Rotation Without Rotation With
SpareTire SpareTire

FIG. 130: Auxiliary Battery Access-

Inspect all terminals and clean and tighten, as

needed. Check the battery case and holddown.
Check the electrolyte level on the auxiliary
batteries visually. Add distilled water as
needed.

Note: The chassis battery is virtua.1/y

maintenance-free, and should not require
additional fluid under normal usage.
I•
FIG. 131: Tire Rotation Procedures

PAGE69
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 Equipment Operational Checks
Check the operation of headlights , windshield
wiper arms and blades, directional signals,
i
warning lights, windshield washers and safety
belts at least once every 5,000 miles.
Replace all bulbs with a bulb of the same type
and number. If a new bulb should tail to
operate, check for corrosion In the socket. If
necessary , clean the socket, using a fine
sandpaper.
CAUTION: Do not clean with a metal tool since
it could cause a short circuit in the electrical
system.
Headlights
To replace the front headlight bulb, remove the FIG. 133: Clearance Light Bulb Replacement
bezel to expose the bulb retainer frame. Next,
remove the four screws holding the retainer WindshieldWipers and Blades
frame. Pull the bulb outward to disconnect. Dry windshield glass accumulates road film
which can result in hazing or smearing when
Remove
Screws the wipers are first activated. This film is not
readily removed with water. Therefore, it is
important that the windshield glass and the
wiper elements be washed regularly with a
mild detergen't.
To replace the wiper blade, remove the small
nut at the end of the windshield wiper arm. Lift
the arm and remove.
To replace the wiper blade element:
• Squeeze the retainer tab at the end of the
element , and pull the retainer out.
Remove
Screws

FIG. 132: Headlight Removal

Front Parking/Directional/
Side Marker Lights
These bulbs are accessible through the front
Squeeze
..
Pull Out

·storage compartment. Twist counterclockwise

to remove, clockwise tb replace.

Rear Taillight/Stoplight/Directional and

Side Marker Lights
Thes;e bulbs are accessible by removal of the
taillight lens. Twist counterclockwise to
remove, clockwise to replace.
FIG. 134: Retainer Tab
Roof Marker/ClearanceLights
There are five amber lights In the front and five
red lights in the rear roof area of th .e vehicle.
To replace the bulb, remove the holding screw.
Then, remove the lens to expose the bulb.
Remove and replace the bulb.
PAGE 70
Page 70.max
• Slip the old element out by sliding along the Drive Belt Check
length of the arm.
A thorough inspection of the drive belts should
be made according to the mileage intervals
indicated on the Engine/Chassis Service Chart
or before any extended trip . Belts that are
found to be cracked, glazed or fray!3d should
be replaced immediately. A worn belt could
break causing loss of power steering assist,
engine cooling, air conditioning and charging
system operation.

FIG . 135: Remove Wiper Blade Element

• Slide the replacement element into position,

and re.place the retainer tab. Be certain that
the tab locks into position behind the wiper
arm frame.

Windshield Washers FIG. 136: Worn Betts Should Be Replaced

If the windshield washers fail to distribute
an even pattern of solvent across the Drive belt tension should be checked using a
windshield, check the nozzle outlets at the drive belt tension gauge . The following
base of the wiper arm to be certain that the specifications can be used to determine
outlets are free from obstruction. If the correct belt tension.
nozzles are clogged, clear by Inserting a
small pin into the outlet. New Belt Used Belt
Air Conditioning 70-140 lbs. 60-120 lbs.
Seat Belts
Alternator 120-160 lbs. 110-130 lbs.
If your seat belts fail to ope.rate properly,
contact your servicing Vixen dealer for Power Steering *60-120 lbs. *60-120 lbs.
assistance. Radiator Fan 70-140 lbs. 60-120 lbs.
To clean the belts , use a mild detergent *The belt tensioner provides proper tension.
mixed with warm water.
If the belt tension is not to specifications, it will
have to be adjusted . When adjusting belt
tension do not overtighten the belt. This could
result in premature belt and bearing fai lure.
To adjust the air conditioning compressor belt,
first:
• Locate the air conditio ning compressor on
the lower left of the engine .
• Locate and loosen the pivot bolts and
adjuster nut.

Note: It may be necessary to perform this

procedure under the vehicle .

PAGE 71

Page 71.max
 To adjust the alternator belt first:
• Locate the alt'ernator on the right side of the
engine. The alternator can be accessed
through the engine compartment cover.

FIG. 137: Install A Belt Tension Gauge

• Install a belt tension gauge on the air

conditioning belt

FIG. 139: Alternator Access

• Loosen all pivot bolts and the adjuster nut.

• Install a belt tension gauge on the alternator
belt. (Refer to FIG. 137.)
• Rotate the adjuster until the specified
tension is attained on the tension gauge.

CAUTION: Do not overtighten the belt. An

overtightened belt could result in alternator
bearing failure and loss of the vehicle ' s
charging system .
FIG. 138: Rotate Air Conditioning Adjuster

• Rotate the adjuster until the specified

tension is attained on the tension gauge.
• Tighten all pivot bolts and the adjuster nut.
After all air conditioning compressor bolts are
tight, confirm that the belt tension is correct by
removing and then reinstalling the tension
gauge. Confirm that the gauge reading Is within
specifications.

PAGE72

Page 72.max
 To adjust the fan belt tension first:
• Remove the right rear taillight panel screws
and remove the panel.

FIG. 140: Alternator Adjuster

FIG. 142: Taillight Panel Removed

• Tighten the alternator pivot bolts and the

adjuster nut. After all bolts are tight , confirm
that the belt tension is correct by removing • Locate the pulley adjusting bolts.
and then reinstalling the tension gauge.
Confirm that the gauge reading is within
specifications .
The power steering belt tension is constantly
maintained by a belt tensioner located above
the alternator. If the power steering belt is
loose, it must be replaced.

FIG. 141: Power Steering Belt Tensioner FIG. 143: Fan Pulley Adjuster

PAGE 73
Page 73.max
 • Loosen the adjusting bolts .
• Install a belt tension gauge on the fan belt.
• Rotate the adjuster until the proper tension
is attained on the gauge.
CAUTION: Do not overtighten the belt.
Overtightening the belt could result in pulley
bearing failure.
• Tighten all bolts and the adjuster nut and
confirm belt tension by removing and then
reinstalling the tension gauge . Confirm that
the reading is within specifications.
• Reinstall the right rear taillight panel. Make
certain all wiring ls tied back from the fan
and fan belt.
Transaxle/Final Drive Fluid Change
The transaxle fluid should be changed
according to the Engine/Chassis Maintenance
Chart mlleage intervals or after severe use. In
order to change the transaxle fluid:
• Warm the transaxle fluid by driving the
vehicle.
• Using a floor jack, raise the rear of the
vehicle and place jack stands under the
frame rails.
• Inspect the transaxle for oil leaks. If a leak
is found, contact your nearest Vixen dealer
for service .
• If no leaks are found, locate the transaxle
drain plug on the bottom center of the
transaxle.

Idle Speed Check and Adjustment

The engine idle speed must be checked for
proper adjustment. If the idle speed is too high
or too low, poor driveability and unsatisfactory
fuel economy could result. The engine Idle
speed should be between 750 and 800 rpm. If
the idle speed is out of specification, an
adjustment will be necessary. Because of the
special tools and service procedures required,
this adjustment should be left to your Vixen
dealer .

FIG. 145: RemoveTransaxleDrain Plug

• Place a drain pan under the plug.

• Using an appropriate wrench, remove the
plug from the transaxle .
• Locate and remove the fl lier plug on the
FIG. 144: Idle Speed - 750-800RPM
right side of the transaxle .

PAGE74
Page 74.max
 To adjust the fan belt tension first:
• Remove the right rear ta i llight panel screws
and remove the panel.

FIG. 140: Alternator Adjuster

FIG. 142: Taillight Panel Removed

• Tighten the alternator pivot bolts and the

adjuster nut. After all bolts are tight, conf irm
that the belt tension is correct by removing • Locate the pulley adjusting bolts.
and then reinstalling the tension gauge.
Confirm that the gauge reading is within
specifications.
The power steering belt tension is constantly
maintained by a belt tensioner locate d above
the alternator . If the power steering belt is
loose, it must be replaced.

FIG. 141: Power Steering Belt Tensioner FIG. 143: Fan Pulley Adjuster

PAGE 73

Page 75.max
 • Loosen the adjusting bolts.
• Install a belt tension gauge on the fan belt.
• Rotate the adjuster until the proper tension
is attained on the gauge.
CAUTION: Do not overtighten the belt.
Overtightening the belt could result in pulley
bearing failure .
• Tighten all bolts and the adjuster nut and
confirm belt tension by removing and then
reinstalling the tension gauge. Confirm that
the reading is within specifications.
• Reinstall the right rear taillight panel. Make
certain all wiring is tied back from the fan
and fan belt.
Transaxle/Final Drive Fluid Change
The transaxle fluid should be changed
according to the Engine/Chassis Maintenance
Chart mileage Intervals or after severe use. In
order to change the transaxle fluid:
• Warm the transaxle fluid by driving the
vehicle.
• Using a floor jack, raise the rear of the
vehicle and place jack stands under the
frame rails.
• Inspect the transaxle for oil leaks. If a leak
is found, contact your nearest Vixen dealer
for service.
• If no leaks are found, locate the transaxle
drain plug on the bottom center of the
transaxle .

Idle Speed Check and Adjustment

The. engine idle speed must be checked for
proper adjustment. If the idle speed is too high
or too low, poor driveability and unsatisfactbry
fuel econpmy c9uld result. The engine idle
speed should be between 750 and 800 rpm. If
the idle speed is out of specification, an
adjustment will be necessary. Because of the
special tools and service procedures required,
this adjustment should be left to your Vixen
dealer.

FIG. 145: RemoveTransaxle Drain Plug

• Place a drain pan under the plug.

• Using an appropriate wrench, remove the
plug from the transaxle. ·
• Locate and remove the filler plug on the
FIG. 144: Idle Spead - 750·800 RPM right side of the transaxle.

PAGE74

Page 76.max
FIG. 146: Transaxle Fill Plug

• Allow the transaxle to drain completely, then

reinstall the drain plug.
• Using a funnel, pump oil can or pressure
gun, refill the tram~axle through the fill hole
with 3.6 qts. of the proper lubricant. Refer to
the Speclfiqatlon Sheet in the Maintenance
Schedule booklet for the type of lubricant
required.
• Reinstall fill plug, remove jackstands and
floor jack anq road test vehicle . After the
road test, reinspect the transaxle for leaks.

Clutch Operational Check

The clutch system on the Vixen 21 is a
hydraulically operated unit. The system must
be checked for proper operation. If the system
is not functioning properly, this could result in FIG. 147: Slave Cylinder Travel
transaxle shifting problems, ge_ ar clash or
clutch slip.
Have a secon~ person sit In the driver's seat
To check clutch operation , first check the free- and after setting the parking brake, depress the
play at the clutch pedal. It should be clutch pedal to the floor.
1mm-2.5mm.
The slave cylinder rod should move a total
Next check the slave cylinder stroke. The slave distance of 11'mm when the clutch pedal is
cylinder is located on top of the transaxle bell depressed.
housing and can be ac:cessed through the
access panel located under the rear mattress.
Remove the access panel and locate the slave
cylinder. Inspect the cylinder for flu Id leaks.

PAGE75

Page 77.max
 If the slave cylinder rod does not move the
required 11mm, this could indicate:
• An external fluid leak.
• An internal leak in the clutch master cylinder
or slave cylinder.
• Air in the system.
• A binding clutch release fork.
To correct any of the above conditions, contact
your nearest Vixen dealer.
Front and Rear Suspension Check
Suspension and steering components should
be checked at least once every 20,000 miles, or
before an extended trip. A suspension or
steering component that is loose/worn could
fail without warning and cause a sudden loss
of steering control. To inspect these
components, start at the front of the vehicle:
• Open the front storage compartment.
Inspect the steering intermediate shaft pinch
bolts and universal Joints. The universal
joints should not have any free play. The
pinch bolts should be tight.
Pinch
Bolts
FIG. 148: Steering Intermediate Shaft Pinch Bolts and
Universal Joints
PAGE76
Page 78.max
• Next, using a floor jack, raise the front of
the vehicle and place jackstands under the
frame rails.
• Inspect all steering linkage components for
signs of wear. The steering components may
rotate slightly, but should not exhibit any up
and down movement.
Tie 7••., Tie Rod-Outer
Steering
Knuckle
FIG. 149: Steering Linkage and Tie Rods
• Inspect upper and lower control arm
bushings for wear.
• Inspect the front shock absorbers. They
should be mounted securely and should not
exhibit any oil leakage.
• Remove the jackstands and floor jack from
the front frame rails.
• Using the floor jack, raise the back of the
vehicle and place the jackstands under the
frame rails.
• Inspect the rear suspension tube and tube
bushings.
• Inspect the shock absorbers for loose
mountings or signs of oil leakage.
• Locate two halfshafts extending from the
transaxle to the left and right rear wheels
and inspect for damage.
• Inspect the CV joints at each end of the
driveshafts. The joints should be tight and
should have no free play.
 • Inspect the CV joint boot. The boot should with asbestos fibers. Dust and dirt from the
not be torn and should not show any signs vacuum should be disposed of in a manner
of grease leakage. If grease leakage is noted that prevents dust exposure, such as sealed
or the boot is torn, contact your nearest bags. The bag must be labeled per OSHA
Vi~en dealer immediately as continued use instructions and the trash hauler notified as to
of the vehicle could damage the CV joint. the bag's contents.
If a vacuum suitable for asbestos is not
available, cleaning should be done wet. If dust
generation is still possible, technicians should
wear government-approved toxic dust purifying
respirators.
Boot Clamp
Small Grinding or sanding on brake linings, pads,
CV Joint \ rotors, or drums should be done only while
Boot
using properly exhaust-ventilated equipment.
OSHA requires areas where asbestos dust
Install End generation is possible to be isolated and
Of Boot In
The Groove posted with warning signs. Only technicians
concerned with performing brake service
should be present in the area.

After the ope,rational check is completed ,

check th e b.rake l inings for wsar:
FIG. 150; CV Joint Boot
• Raise the front of the vehicle with a floor
jack. Place jackstands under the frame rails,
Brake System Check and remove both front wheel and tire
A complete inspection and operational check assemblies .
of the brake system should be performed at • Examine the disc brake pads fof wear by
least once every 20,000 miles, or before an noting the clearance between the wear
extended trip. To perform the operational sensor tab and the rotor.
check:
• Road test the vehicle and listen for any Shoe
unusual noise. Retainer
Spring
• .Apply the brakes , again noting any noise
such as squealing or grinding . The vehicle
shou ld not exhibit any pulling to the left or
right. The brake pedal should not fade to the
floor and the "BRAKE" warning light should
remain off.

CAUTION: Any service performed on the brake

system should be performed by a qualified
technician.
CAUTION: When servicing brake parts, do not
Outboard Shoe
create dust by grinding or sanding brake and Lining
linings or by cleaning brake parts with a dry
brush or with compressed air . (A dampened FIG . 151: Inspect Front Brake Pads
cloth should be used.) Many brake parts
contain asbestos fibers which can become
airborne if dust is created during servicing. If the tab is touching the brake rotor , it will be
Breathing dust containing asbestos fibers may necessary to replace the pads.
cause serious bodily harm.
• Inspect the calipers, rubber flex hoses and
Wheel brake assemblies should be cleaned steel brake tubes for signs of leakage and
using a vacuum cleaner recommended for use wear.

PAGE77
Page 79.max
 • Reinstall the front wheel assemblies.
Remove jackstands and floor jack. Lower
vehicle .
• Raise the rear of the vehicle with a floor
Jack, placing Jackstands under the frame
rails and remo ve the rear wheel ass emblies .
• Carefully remove both brake drums. Do not
disturb the asbestos dust in the brake drums
at on the brake assembly .
• Place a drain pan under the brake assembly
and us ing an aerosol can of brake cleaner ,
spray the assembly to remove the asbestos
dust.
• Inspect the brake lining rivet holes . If the
rivets are flush with the brake llnln g, the
brake shoes must be replaced.
Rivet
Koles
AG . 162: lnapect Brake Shoes
• Inspect both wheel cylin ders and brake
hoses for signs of leakage or wear.
• Reinstall the brake-drums and whee l
assembl ies.
• Removeja ckstan ds and floor Jact. Lower
vehicl e.
PAGE78
Page 80.max
To check for prc;,perrear brake ,adjustment,
shift the transaxle gear shifter to neutral :
• Raise the back of the vehicle w ith a floor jack .
• Rotate bot h rear wheels by hand and listen
for a slight drag on the brake drum. If no
drag is noted, it will be necessary to adjust
the rear brakes.
Rear brake adjustments can be performed in
one of two ways.
1. AutomatlcaJly - by back ing the vehicle up
and pump i ng the brake pedal.
2. Manually - by turning the brake adjusters
from under the vehicle.
To manually adjust the re-ar brakes :
• Raise and support the back of the vehicle so
that both rear whee ls are off the ground.
• Place the transaxle gear selector in neutral.
• Locate the adjuster holes on the back of the
brake bac kin g plates.
StarWhNI
FIG. 153: Brake Ad)ustar
 • Insert a brake adjusting tool through the
adjusting hole and rotate the star wheel in
the proper direction while rotating the wheel
assembly.
• When a slight drag is felt, stop turning the
star wheel.

WARNING: Do not overtighten the brake

adjustment. This could result in rear wheel
lock-up and brake failure.

• Repeat the above adjusting procedure on the

opposite side of the vehicle.

The emergency brake is connected to the left
and right rear brake assemblies and is
actuated using cables. The emergency brake
pedal is located on the lower left side of the
instrum ent panel. When depressed, the pedal
will pull the cables to applying the rear brakes.
As the rear brakes wear or the cables stretch,
the tension on the cables will have to be
adjusted. To accomplish this adjustment:
• Confirm the need for the adjustment by
depressing the emergency brake pedal
slowly. There should be 4-5 clicks before the
pedal travel stops. If 4-5 clicks are not heard,
the cables may need adjustment.
FIG. 155: Emergency Brake Adjuster
• Using a 9/16" wrench, turn the adjusting nut
to tighten or loosen the cable.
Note: It may be necessary to hold the adjusting
stud with vise-grips or a similar tool.
• Adjust the nut until the required 4 or 5 clicks
can be attained on the emergency brake
pedal.
• Remove the Jackstands and lower the
vehicle.

The brake fluid should be checked often to

ensure prope r brake operation. The brake fluid
Pull To/
is checked at the master cylinder reservoir
Release using the indicators molded into the reser1Joir.
Brake Do not remove the reservoir cover unless a
fluid addition is required. To check the fluid
level:

Press To • With the ignition switch in the "OFF"

Engage
FIG. 154: Check Emergency Brake Adjustment
• To adjust the emergen cy brake, raise and
support the back of the vehicle .
• Locate the cable adjuster which is directly
behind the black water tank .
position , pump the brake pedal ten times.
The pedal should become progressively
harder to push.
• Check the fluid level by looking through the
master cylinder reservoir. The reservoir
should be ¾ full. If it is less than ¾ full ,
add only DOT 3 brake fluid to bring to the
required level.

PAGE 79
Page 81.max

Brake Fluid Reservoir
Front View
FIG. 156: Brake Fluid Level
Intake and Exhaust Valves
Th.e intake an,d exhaust valve lash must be
adjusted at the 5,000 mile maintenance service,
at 15,000 miles and at each 15,000 mile interval
thereafter to compensate for normal wear.
Valve lash that is misadjusted could result In
poor engine performance and reduced fuel
economy. In cases of severe misadjustment,
engine damage could occur.
The adjustme -nt procedure is de ta iled on
Driver Side View Page 6 of the Engin e Repa ir Manual.

To add brake fluid: Front Wheel Bearing Service

• Clean any dirt from the reservoir cover. Clean, inspect and lubricate the front wheel
• Remove the reservoir co ver and add the bearings at least once every 20,000 miles.
correct amount of DOT 3 brake fl u id. Bearings can wear over a long period of time
and then fail without notice. To inspect the
• Snap the cover back into place.
wheel bearings:
Note: Make certain the cover snaps tightly at • Raise the front of the vehicle, with a floor
all four locations. jack, and remove the wheel assemblies.
Place jackstands under the frame rails.
CAUTION: Any service performed on the brake • Using a 12mm hex key, locate the brake
system should be performed by a qualified caliper moun ting bolts and remove.
technician .
CAUTION: When servicing brake parts , do not
create dust by grinding or sanding brake
linings or by cleaning brake parts with a dry
brush or with compressed air. (A dampened
cloth should be used.) Many brake parts
contain asbestos fibers which can become
airborne if dust is created during servicing.
Brea1hing dust containing asbestos fibers may
cause serious bodily harm.
Wheel brake assemblies should be cleaned
using a vacuum cleaner recommended for use
with asbestos fibers. Dust and dirt from the
vacuum should be disposed of in a manner
that prevents dust exposure , such as sealed
bags. The bag must be labeled per OSHA
instructions and the trash hauler notified as to
the bag ' s contents .
If a vacuum suitable for asbestos is not
available, cleaning should be done wet. If dust
generation is still possible , technicians should
wear government -approved toxic dust purifying
respirators. FIG. 157: Remove Caliper Bolts
Grinding or sanding on brake linings, pads,
rotors, or drums should be done only while
using properly exhaust -ventilated equipment. • Remove the brake caliper from the rotor.
OSHA requires areas where asbestos dust
generation is possible to be isolated and
posted with warning signs. Only technician s Note : Do not allow the caliper to hang by the
concerned with performing brake service rubber hose. Use a piece of wire or string to tie
should be present in the area. the caliper to the frame.

PAGE 80
Page 82.max
 -

CAUTION: Do not depress the brake pedal with

the caliper removed.

• Remove the grease cup, cotter pin and

e. ·.. ~ INDENTATIONS
Surface depressions on race and
rollers caused by hard particles
of foreignmaterial.
bearing retaining nut. Remove the· outer
bec:3.ring
and the brake rotor. @llJffitl
FATIGUE SPALLING
fn;l ·li·-l:~~ Flaking of surface metal
resulting from fatigue.

@,;ma
CAGE WEAR
Wear around outside diameter of
cage and roller pockets caused
by abrasive material and
inefficient lubrication.

HEAT DISCOLORATION
Heat discoloration can range from
faint yellow to dark blue resulting
from overload or incorrect or lack
·:'.(/f i J ,:: '?. :, •. ·.
~
of lubricant.
Excessive heat can cause
.- .... ..
u, • .. , (.t
- - -.. softening of races or rollers .
To check for loss of temper on
FIG. 158: Remove Outer Wheel Bearing races or rollers, a simple file test
may be made. A file drawn over a
tempered part will grab and cut
metal, whereas, a file drawn over
• Using a suitable tool , pry the bearing seal a hard part will glide readily with
from the back of the brake rotor hub. no metal cutting.
Remove the inner bearing.

FIG . 159: Bearing Inspection Chart

• Clean both inner and outer bearings in
solvent to remove the grease.

• Inspect the bearings carefully for signs of

wear. Use the fo ll owing chart to assist in
your inspection.

PAGE81
Page 83.max
If a bearing is found to be defective , the
bearing and its race mus t be replaced .
• After conf i rming that the bearing ca n be
reused , pack the bearing with new whee l
bearing grease . To do this place a small
amount of wheel bearing grease in the palm
of your hand . Press the grease into the back
of the bearing until grease appears between
the rollers and cage .

Bolt

FIG.111: C....,lllcllla

• Repeat the procedure on the opposite side

of the vehlcle .
l. 180: Wheel BNrtng • Reinstall the front wheels, remove
jackstands and lower the vehlcle.

• After packing both bearings , clean the old

grease from inside the rotor hub and apply a Fuel Line Check
light film of grease to the bearing races in Fuel lines must be checked for ruptures ,
the hub . chafing, loose connections and kinking at least
• P1ace the inner bearing in the hub and using once every 20,000 miles. These conditions can
a suitable tool . install a MW bearing seal cause drtveabi Hty problems and possibly
engine stalk>ut .
To inspect , locate the hoses at the fuel tank on
the right hand side of the vehicle. Follow the
Note: Bearing s~•I Part No. - 10500010 or GAi hoses back and check the condition of the line .
No. 3955092 . If t he line Is kinked , remove the kink or, if
necessary, replace the line . If a connection is
loose , tighten It.
• Clean the bear ing sp indle and apply a light
coat of bearing grease. .:::.ur10~. Do not o,;:-rt ,gnten ,:1a""'PS o·
:orne,c1 1 or.s _;.•50 u~t? e ,• re~e ;:a~e 3S •i-i:-
• Install the brake rotor on the spindle and
l\,;e l s, St€-m opera tee. _,..,dE-' E-, tr~·,,,,€- , "'~~
ins t all the outer bearing . slinger and
;:l'E-SSU'E'
retaining nut .
• Torque the retainingnut to 12 ft-Iba.while Continue the Inspection rearward to the
rotating the~ r forward. engine .
• 111sta1Ia 11aw cotter pin .
• Install the grease cup . Note: /I a fuel system component is replaced ,
• Place the caliper on the rotor and instaJI the fuel system must be bled . Refer to the
retajn ing bolts . Tighten to »..s ft -lbs. Engine Repair Manual , Page 7.

PAGE82

Page 84.max
 Exhaust System Check
Check the exhaust system for rust, leaks or
damage at least once every 20,000 miles . To
inspect the system:
• Check the exhaust pipe from the
turbocharger. The turbocharger is located on
the left side of the engine. Check for rust
and leaks in the pipe. Tap the pipe with a
hammer or wrench . The result should be a
clear ring. A dull thud would indicate a rusty
pipe.
• Inspect the muffler for rust , holes or split
seams. Inspect the muffler hanger and
confirm tightne ss.

Diesel Engine Tune-Up and Filter Change FIG. 163: Injector PumpAir Alter

Change the fuel filter and fuel injection pump
air fllter and check the idle speeds and
injection pump timing at least once every
30,000 miles.
• Change the fuel filter element by unscrewing
the complete cartridge from the body. This
complete screw-on cartridge must be
replaced. Use Vixen No. 110800012 (BMW
No. 13322241303)or equivalent.
/Fuel
/ Sens or
-:=i
• Adjusting the Idle speed or the fuel injection
pump timing requires the use of special
tools and procedures. This should not be
attempted by the owner. When these
services are needed, contact your nearest
Vixen dealer for assistance .
Air Cleaner Element
The air cleaner element should be replaced
every 30,000 miles to maintain proper engine
performance . If the vehicle is used under
extreme driving conditions or in extremely
dusty conditions, the filter should be changed
Heater more often .
Bleeder To change the air cleaner element, remove the
Screw left rear storage panel. Inside the rear section
you will find a large wing nut. Remove this
wing nut, followed by the air cleaner element.
Replace the air cleaner element with Vixen No.
110600038(Nelson No. 70222-A)or equivalent.

FIG. 162: Fuel FIiter Assembly

• The fuel injection pump air filter Is located

on the right side frame rail near the fuel
fil t er assembly. Unsnap the seale·d in-line FIG. 164: EngineAir FIiter Location
fllter from its mounting bracket. Replace the
filter With Vixen No. 110600693(BMW
No. 13512240392)or equivalent.

PAGE83
Page 85.max
 Tighten Engine/Transaxle Mountings
Tighten th e eng ine and transaxle mounting
bolts at least once every 40,000 miles.
To tighten, raise the rear of the vehi cle (See
Page 37, FIG. 67). Place jackstands und er
frame rails . Inspect and tighten the eng ine
motor mounts , engine crossmem ber bolts ,
transaxle mountin g bolts and transaxle
crossmember bolts .
FIG. 165: Engineand Crossmember Bolts
FIG. 166: Transaxle and Crossmember Bolt s
Change Toothed Timing Belt and
Air Conditioner Belt
The toothed timing belt drives the fuel
Injection pump. This belt sho uld be changed at
least once every 60,000 miles. If the belt is not
changed, engine damage could occur.
PAGE 84
Page 86.max
Note: The replace ment of this belt requires the
use of special tools and proc edures . This
should only be done by your authorized Vixen
dealer.
Coolant Protection Check
Once a year, prior to cold weather, the coolant
level should be checked to ensure that no
engine damage will occur due to lack of
coolant or by the freezing of coolant in the
engine block. The proper coolant level will also
protect the water heater and the radiator from
freezing.
The antifreeze protection level should be at
- 35 °F. If th-e coolant level Is low, a 50150
mixture of water and Prestone II, or equivalent
containing Alugard 340-2™, should be used to
fill the expansion tank to the "FU LL" mark . The
expansion tank is located in the front storage
compartment on the passenge r's side of the
vehicle.
0
FIG. 167: Expansion Tank
Chassis Lubrication
Lubricate the chassis at least once annually or
after every 10,000 miles of use, whichever
comes first. If not performed at regular
Intervals, the handling and safety of the vehicle
coul d be affected.
• The chassis lubrication entails lubr ication of
both upper and lower ball joints on both
sides of the vehicle and all tie rod ends.
• When lubricating, be sure to cl ean any dirt
from the fittings to ensure that no dirt will
enter the joints .
• Do not overfill w ith grease . FIii only until the
rubber boot expands or a small amount of
grease appears around the edge of th e boot.
Use NLGI Grade 2EP multi-purpose grease
for lub,ication .
 Cooling System Service
With time, the coolant in your vehicle will lose
its protection value. Every two years, the
cooling system should be drained and flushed.
This will remove any scale and rust in the
cooling system.
To drain and refill the cooling system:
• Open the petcock on the bottom of the
radiator. This petcock is located under the
right rear of the vehicle, close to the bumper.
• Remove the cap on the expansion tank
located in the front storage compartment.
Once the coolant stops flowing from the
petcock, replace the cap on the expansion
tank.
• On the heater hose, in the front
compartment, there is a pressure fitting.
Hook a garden hose to this fitting. Turn the
hose on very low and flush until the water
running out of the petcock is clear. Remove
the hose and allow the water to drain out.
Close the petcock.
FIG. 168: Expansion Tank Hoses
• Next, fill the expansion tank with a 50150
mixture of water and Prestone II or other
brand containing Alugard 340-2™, or
equivalent.
• Remove the overflow hose at the expansion
tank. This will allow air pressure to be put in
the tank.
PAGE85
Page 87.max
• With the expansion tank cap in place and air
pressure in the tank, open bleeder valve on
the motor until coolant runs out. (The
bleeder valve may have to be closed,
additional coolant and air pressure added to
the expansion tank, and the bleeder
reopened until coolant runs out.) Close the
bleeder valve.
leeder
crew
FIG. 169: Bleeder Screw
• Remove radiator return hose on the back of
the expansion tank and place the end of the
hose in a container. Block off the radiator
return hose nipple at the expansion tank.
• With the expansion tank full of coolant,
slowly add air pressure by way of the
overflow nipple. Be sure that the tank
doesn't become empty. Stop the air pressure
and refill the tank with coolant when it
becomes low. Observe the coolant filling the
container from the radiator return hose.
When the coolant flows in a steady stream,
without air bubbles, _reconnect the return
hose and the overflow hose to the expansion
tank.
• Run the engine and refill as necessary. After
driving the vehicle it may be necessary to
add coolant for the first 100 miles, or until
the coolant level remains at the "FULL"
mark.
• It is important that no air is left in the
cooling system. Damage to the Webasto
overheat fuse could result. ·
Note: This cooling system service should be
performed only by qualified technicians.
Contact your nearest Vixen dealer for
assistance.
MaintenanceOperationsDescription: After storage , the water system sho uld be
cleaned and sanitized. For complete
Body/Accessories instructions on sanitizing the system , refer to
Page 46 of this manual.
Exterior Body Panels To winterize for storage, be su re to drain the
The exterior body panels should be washed water system (see Page 45 of this manual).
after each trip.
Do not wash with hot water , in bright sunlight
or when the surfaces are hot. Use only a sma ll
amount of mild soap to cut dirt and road film .
Be sure to rinse with c lear cool water.

Stainless Steel Sink

Clean the stainless steel sink after each trip
with soap or detergent. Rinse with warm water
and w ipe dry to keep looking new.

Demand Water Pump

The demand water pump should be turned off
after each trip to avoid discharging batteries.
The plumbing should be checked for leaks FIG. 170: Bathroom Drain Valves
every three months.
When the pump is turned on it s hould run for a
few seconds to pressurize the system, and
then shut off. If the pump runs continuously,
check first to see that all faucets are off. Next,
check to be sure that the bypass and tank
shutoff valves are In the correct position (see
Pages 44 and 45). If the pump continues to run
or keeps going on and off when no water Is
being used, there may be a leak in the water
system.

Refrigerator
Check the electr ical connection s and the door
seal once yearly. See Pages 54 and 55 of this
manual for before and after trip maintenance
requl rements. FIG. 171: Fresh Water Tank Drain

Microwave Oven
Clean the interior surfaces after each trip, or
after each use. No other maintenance is
required .
Drain
Carpeting and Upholstery
The carpeting and upholstery are of a high
quality. Both should be vac4umed after each
use to keep dirt from accumulating In the
fibers.

PotableWaterSystem
The potable water system should be filled prior
to each trip and drained after each tr ip, or
befo re storage .
FlG. 172: Outalde Dnl1n

PAGE88

Page 88.max
 Black/GrayWater Tanks
Both the black water and the gray water tanks
should be drained and f lushed after each trip,
and before storage. This should be done at a
ca mpsite hook-up or a sanitary d•sposal
station . For storage in cold weather , an
automotive-type ethylene glycol antifreeze
should be used. Do not use alco hol or
methanol-type antifreezes as they present a
fire hazard.
Webasto Heater
The Webasto heater shou ld be operated once a
month , before and after each trip, and after
storage .
• Clean the outs ide of the unit which Is
located in the front storage compartme nt.
Do not allow water to penetrate the
electrical connect ions on top of the heater.
• Check all electrical connections for
corrosion and loose fittings . Repair w here
necessary.
• Check the exhaust sile ncer and the exhaust
pipe for any damage or holes. Also check to
make sure all fittings are tight.
• Check combustion air pipe and the Intake
sllencer for any damage or obstructions. If
obst ructions are not cleared, tne heater will
not work properly.
• Check all fuel lines, extractor , fuel pump and
heater for leaks. Make sure that all the
co nnections are tight and not misaligned .
• Check all the water hoses for any cracks or
leaks. Also make sure that the water pump
Is not leaking and that the fittings are tight.
FIG. 173: Webasto Heater
PAGE87
Page 89.max
Electrical Power Inverter
The case of the power inverter should be wiped
with a dry cloth every three months. The case
and the ventilating holes should then be
sprayed with a drying silicone (CRC, WD-40 or
equivalent).
• Every six months , clean and tighten the
battery connections .
• The inverter should be disconnected from
the batteries for winter storage . The
batte ries should be removed fro m th e
vehicle unles s battery charging is provided
during the storage period.
Window Guides
The window guides should be cleaned and
lubricated wi th a silicone lubricant every t hree
months to help keep the windows moving
smooth ly and trouble free.
Heater Cables
Every th ree month s, lubricate the control
cables w ith silicone lubri cant to keep them
moving freely .
Exterior Lights, Doors, Windows
The exterior li ght s, doors, and window s should
be Inspected for proper operation every six
months .
• Check the headlights , tallllghts, turn slgnals,
brake lights, parking lights and the
clearance lights. Replace any defective
bulbs.
• Check the doors for proper operation to see
that they lat ch and lock correctly.
• Make sure windows work properly and that
no damage has occurred .
 Toilet
To keep the toilet working properly, the bowl
sealing blade should be lubricated with
silicone spray every six months.
Air Conditioning Condenser/Radiator
Before each tr ip, the A/C condenser and the
radiator should be cleaned of any dirt. To
clean, remove the storage compartments on
each side of the vehicle. Using a garden hose ,
spray the dirt out of the A/C condenser and the
radiator.
FIG. 174: Air Condit ion er Condenser Core
.:
((
'
FIG. 11·5: Radiator Core
PAGE 88
Page 90.max
Door and Compartment Hinges
Once a year, the door and compartment hinges
should be checked for tightness. Be sure all
nuts and bolts are tight. At t he same time,
lubricate the hinges for smooth operation.
Stove
After each trip and before storage, the tank
pressure should be released by loose ning fi l l
cap ½ to 1 turn. Once pressure is released ,
retighten cap . Before each trip , refill stove tank
as necessary .
FIG. 176: Stove Fill Valve
Sump Pump
Operate the shower sump pump for o ne minute
at least once monthly. Once every twe lve
months , check connecting rod beari ng and add
chassis lube as needed. (See Page 49 fo r sump
pump location.)
Sump Pt.imp
Lubrication
Point
FIG. 177: Sump Pump Lubrication Point
Installing Screws Into Fiberglass
If you wish to install accessories on the
outside of the vehicle, do not install the screws
directly into the fiberglass. The screw will
vibrate and loosen in the soft fiberglass.
An appropriate anchor must be used in order
for the screw to remain tight. These can be
purchased at any hardware or fastener store.

Winter Use
If the vehicle is to be used in cold climates
(below freezing), the following items must be
protected against freezing.
• Add antifreeze to both the gray water and
the black water tanks. Regular inexpensive
automotive-type ethylene glycol antifreeze
can be used.
• The fresh water tank and the hot water
heater must be kept warm. To do this, the
vehicle or Webasto heater must be kept on
at all times. In extreme cold, open the
tambour doors under the sink and stove area
to keep the water heater and water lines
from freezing.
• The shower drain must have antifreeze
added after each use, and the sump pump
should be operated to ensure that the drain
and filter assembly will not freeze.

PAGE89
Page 91.max
 FRONTFUSE PANEL LIST
Amp.
MAIN2
1. Turn Signals . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 5
2. Air Conditioner . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 5
3. Electronics ...........................
0 4A 3A SA @
5
A. K.E.1. Black Box
B. Gauges
© 4B 38 SB 68 @
C. Instrument Panel Lights
D. Front Height Control Sensor © 4C 3C SC &C @
4. Power Brake Control . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1
5. Auxiliary Blower ...................... 15 © 4D 3D SD 6D ®
6. Horn ................................ 20
7. Cigarette Lighter ...................... 20 © 8A 7A 9A 10A @
8. Auxiliary Battery Boost. ................ 1
9. Headlights ......................
10. Hazard Warning Flashers ...............
, .... 15 © 88 7B 98 @)
15
11. Power Mirrors .........................
12. Windshield Wipers .................. CB15
1 0 BC 7C 9C 10C @
13. Front Blower (Key On) .................. 20 @

cg®
14. Cruise Control Lever ................... 4
8D
AUX2 9D 10D @
15. Front Blower (Key Off) .................. 15
16. Dome Light, Light Over Table. . . . . . . . . . . . 6
17. Running Lights ....................... 15 (t)~
18. Radio ................................ 5 @) 28 1B @)
19. Brake Lights .......................... 5 MAIN MAIN
20. Power Brakes ....................•. CB30 3 4

REAR FUSE PANELLIST

1. Front Main Feed 1 (Ignition) ............. 20
2. Front Main Feed 2 ..................... 20
3. Front Main Feed 3 ..................... 20
4. Front Main Feed 4 ............... ·~.. CB30
5. Air Conditioning Condenser ............. 20
6. Reverse Lock-Out ................... SB20
7. Webasto .......................... SB25
8. Bath Light ............................ 20
Range Hood
A. Monitor Panel
B. Fresh Water Pump
C. Sump Pump
9. Refrigerator/Bedroom Lights ............ 20
10. Front Auxiliary Power Feed 1 ............ 20
11. Front Auxiliary Power Feed 2 ............ 20 19 20 21 24 23 22
12. Floor Lights .......................... 5
13. Rear Height Control ................. SB15
14. Front l;ietght Control •............... SB15
15. Webasto Thermostat. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 8
19. Engine Ignition (Glow Plugs) ............ 6
20. Back-Up Lights . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 5
21. Rear Height Control Sensor . . . . . . . . . . . . . 5
22. Cruise Control Box .................... 10 0 D0 13 14 15

PAGE90
Page 92.max
OTHERFUSES
In the engine compartment, the glow plug
module contains an 80-amp. fuse, BMW
Part No. 07 11 9 978 840.
In the front compartment .cowl area, there are
two more f use.s for the Webasto heater:
1. Red 16-amp. ceramic body GBC
2. White 8-amp. ceramic body GBC
The Webasto heater contains an overheat fuse,
Webasto Part No. 475.963.

PAGE91

Page 93.max
 INDEX
PAGE PAGE

A D
Air Cleaner Element ........................... 83 Defogging and Defrosting ...................... 20
Air Conditioner ............................... 21 Demand Water Pump .......................... 86
Air Conditioning Condenser/Radiator ............ 88 Door Locks ................................ 11-12
Alcohol Stove ........................... 52-54,88 Diesel Engine Tune-Up and Filter Change ......... 83
Fuel Requirements ...................... 53 Door and Compartment Hinges .................. 88
Stove Operation ........................ 52 Drainage/Sewage System .................... 47-49
Cleaning the Burner ..................... 54 Drain and Toilet Care .................... 48
Maintaining Your Stove .................. 54 Holding Tanks ....................... 47-48
Alternator Warning ............................ 24 Sump Pump ............................ 49
Auxiliary Battery Test .......................... 51 Tollet ................................. 47
Auxiliary Blower .............................. 17 Wash Basin and Shower ................. 48
Auxiliary Heating System .................... 42-43 DriveBelt Check ............................ 71-74
Heater Controls ......................... 43 DriveBelt Tension ............................. 32
Heater Maintenance and Driver's Seat Adjustment .................... 12-13
Troubleshooting ........................ 43
Heater Operation ....................... 42 E
Electrical Systern ........................... 39-42
B 12-Volt System .......................... 39
29 120-Volt System ......................... 39
Backup Lights ................................
17 Shoreline Connection ................. 39-49·- · ""
Battery Boost Switch ..........................
35 Heart Interface PowerInverter ............. 40
Battery, Chassis ..............................
69 Inverter Operation .................... 40
Battery Check ................................
87 Overload Conditions .................. 41
Black/Gray Water Tanks ........................
67 Troubleshooting ...................... 41
Brake Fluid ..................................
33 Electrical Receptacles ......................... 41
Brake Fluid Check .............................
77-80 TestingtheGFCI Receptacle ........... 41-42
Brake System Check ........................
19 Electrical Power Inverter ....................... 87
Brake System Warning Light,--.· .................
Emergency Exit Window ....................... 60
Engine Access Cover .......................... 31
C 31
Engine Compartment ..........................
Carpeting and Upholstery ................... 61, 86 Engine Coolant ............................... 68
Cassette Player Operation ...................... 22 Engine Oil ................................. 66-67
Change Engine 011and Oil FIiter ................. 66 Engine 011and Oil FIiter ........................ 66
Changing A Tire ............................ 36-38 Engine Oil Level Check ...................... 31-32
Chassis Battery ............................... 35 Engine Starting Procedures .................. 25-26
Chassis Lubrication ........................... 84 Starting a Hot Engine .................... 25
City Water Connection ......................... 44 Starting and Operating Conditions ......... 26
Clutch Fluid .................................. 68 Transmission Operation ................. 26
Clutch Fluid Check ............................ 33 Englne/Transaxle Mountings, Tighten ............ 84
Clutch Operational Check .................... 75-76 Equipment Operational Checks ................. 70
Comfort Controls ........................... 20-21 Exhaust System Check ........................ 83
Condenser, Air Conditioning .................... 88 Exterior Body Panels .......................... 86
Coolant Protection Check ...................... 84 Exterior Lights, Doors, Windows ................. 87
Cooling System Check ...................... 32-33 Extreme Driving Conditions ..................... 62
Cooling System Service ........................ 85
Cruise Control ................................ 28
Cruise Control Warnings ................. 28
Driving Up or DownHills ................. 28
To PassA Vehicle ....................... 28
To ResumeA Pre-Set Speed. .............. 28
To Set Cruise Control .................... 28

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F Cigarette Lighter ........................ 21
Filter Change ................................. 83 Comfort Controls ..................... 20-21
Fire Extinguisher .............................. 57 Air Conditioner ....................... 21
Fluid Check and Diesel Fuel Filter Change ........ 66 Defogging and Defrosting .............. 20
Front and Rear Suspension Check ............. 76-77 Fresh Air Ventilation .................. 21
Front Compartment ........................... 32 Heating ............................. 20
Front Fuse Panel List .......................... 90 Fuel Gauge ............................ 19
Front Parking/Directional/Side Marker Lights ...... 70 Glovebox .............................. 24
Front Wheel Bearing Service ................. 80-82 High Beam Indicator ..................... 19
Fresh Water System ........................ 44-47 Instrument Panel Warning Lights ........ 23-24
Bathroom Shutoff ....................... 46 Alternator Warning .................... 24
City Water Connection ................ 44-45 Auto-Ride Manual .................... 24
Draining The Fresh Water System ......... 45 Coolant Temperature .................. 24
Filling The Water Tank ................... 45 Low Coolant ......................... 24
Hot Water Heater ....................... 47 Low Fuel Warning .................... 24
Sanitizing The Water System .............. 46 Low Oil Level ........................ 23
Using The On-Board System .. , ........... 45 Oil Pressure ......................... 24
Water Pump ............................ 46 Seat Belt Warning .................... 24
Fuel ........................................ 11 Start ................................ 24
Filling The Fuel Tank .................... 11 Top Ajar ............................. 24
Fuel Requirements ...................... 11 Wait To Crank ........................ 24
Winter Fuel Requirements ................ 11 Water In Fuel Warning ................. 24
Fuel Filter Water Separator ..................... 68 Light Switch ............................ 17
Fuel Gauge .................................. 19 Load Leveler Controls ................... 23
Fuel Line Check .............................. 82 Radio Operation ...................... 21-22
Fuses ..................................... 90-91 Remote Mirror Controls ............... 12, 21
Front Fuse Panel List .................... 90 Speedometer/Odometer .................. 18
Other Fuses ............................ 91 Tachometer ............................ 18
Rear Fuse Panel List ..................... 90 Temperature Gauge ..................... 19
Turbo Gauge ........................... 18
H Turn Signal Indicators ................... 18
Hazard Warning Flasher ........................ 29 Voltmeter .............................. 20
Headlights ................................... 70 Intake and Exhaust Valves ...................... 80
Heart Interface Power Inverter ................... 40 Interior Lighting ............................ 59-60
Heater Cables ................................ 87
Heater, Webasto .............................. 87 J
Heating ..................................... 20 Jump-Starting Your Battery ..................... 36
Heating System, Auxiliary .................... 42-43
High Beams .................................. 29 K
Hinges, Door and Compartment ................ . 88
Keys ........................................ 11
Holding Tank Levels ........................ 50-51
Holding Tanks ............................. 47-48
Horn ........................................ 30
L
Lighting, Interior .............................. 59
Lubrication, Chassis .......................... 84
Identification and Location of
Important Exterior Components ................. 8-9
M
Idle Speed Check and Adjustment ............... 74 Maintenance Operation Description
Ignition Switch ............................... 25 Body/Accessories .......................... 86-89
Installing Screws Into Fiberglass ................ 89 Maintenance Records ......................... 63
lnstrU{Tlent Panel and Interior Controls ......... 16-24 Maintenance Service Chart ..................... 65
Air Pressure Gauge ...................... 20 Maintenance Service Operations
Auxiliary Blower ........................ 17 Engine/Chassis ............................... 66
Battery Boost Switch .................... 17 Microwave Oven ......................... 55-57, 86
Brake System Warning Light .............. 19 Microwave Oven Controls .............. 56-57
Cassette Player Operation ............. 22-23 Mini Blinds ................................... 61
Monitor/Control Panel ......................... 49

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N Starting Out .................................. 27
Storage Compartments ........................ 59
New Vehicle Break-In Recommendations .......... 6
Stove, Alcohol. .......................... 52-54,88
Non-Scheduled Maintenance ................... 65
Cleaning The Burner ..................... 54
Norcold Refrigerator ..................... 54-55,86
Fuel Requirements ...................... 53
p Maintaining Your Stove .................. 54
Stove Operation ...................•.... 52
Parking Brake ................................ 27 Sump Pump ............................... 49, 88
Passenger Seats ........................... 57-58 Winter Use ............................. 89
Pedestal Table ................................ 58 Sump Pump FIiter ............................. 49
Potable Water System ......................... 86 Sump Pump Switch ............................ 51
Power Brakes ................................ 30 Suspension Check, Front and Rear ............ 76-77
Power Root Operation ......................... 50
Power Steering ............................... 27 T
Power Steering Fluid ........................•. 67
Telescopic Steering Column .................... 27
Power Steering Fluid Check ..................... 32
Tighten Engine/Transaxle Mountings ............. 64
Privacy Curtains .............................. 61
TIit Steering Wheel ............................ 27
Tire Changing .............................. 36-38
R Toilet ..................................... 47, 88
Radiator ..................................... 88 Toothed Timing Belt and Air Conditioner Belt ...... 64
Radio Operation .............................. 21 TowlngYourVehlcle ........................... 38
Range Hood Fan .............................. 51 Transaxle/Flnal Drive Fluld Change. ........... 74-75
Range Hood Light ............................. 51 Transaxle Fluld ............................... 67
Rear Fuse Panel List ........................... 90 Transaxle Operation ........................... 26
Rear Tallllghts/Stopllghts/Directlonal and Transmission Operation ........................ 26
Side Marker Lights ............................ 70 Tune-Up, Dlesel Engine ........................ 83
RearviewMirrors .............................. 12 Turbocharged Diesel Engine .................... 10
Inside RearviewMirror ................... 12 Turn Signals ............................•.. 28-29
Outside RearvlewMirror .................. 12
Recommended Shift Speeds .................... 26 u
Refrigerator ............................ 54-55, 86
Upholstery ................................ 61, 86
Defrosting The Refrigerator ............... 55
Maintaining Your Refrigerator ............. 55
Refrigerator Operation ................... 55
V
Roof Marker/Clearance Lights .................. 70 Valves, Intake and Exhaust ..................... 80
Vehicle Maintenance ........................ 62-89

w
Warranty Highlights ... : ........................ 5
s Water Pump, Demand .......................... 86
Water Pump Switch ......................... 51-52
Safety Belts ............................... 13-15
Water Tanks, Black/Gray ....................... 87
Safety Restraints tor Children .......... 14-15
Webasto Heater .............................. 87
Safety Restraints for Pregnant Women ..... 15
Wheel and Tire Check .......................... 69
Seat Belt Warnings ...................... 14
Windows ................................. 60, 88
Safety Precautions ............................. 7
Window Guides ............................... 87
Seat Belts ................................... 71
Windshield WasherFluid ....................... 88
Shifting Precautions ........................... 26
WindshieldWasherFluid Check ................. 34
Shoreline Connection .......................... 39
Windshield Wipersand Blades. ............... 70-71
Shower and 'flash Basin ....................... 48
34-35 Windshield Wipers and Washers ........... 29-30,71
Side Compartments .........................
Winter Use ................................... 89
Driver's Side ........................... 34
Passenger's Side ....................... 35
Sleeping Accommodations ..................... 58
Specifications and Capacities ................ 63-64
Stainless Steel Sink ........................... 86

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