(jke Cortez ..

National

11022 EAST DAINES DRIVE, TEMPLE CITY. CA!.iFORNIA 81780 ° IB18) 444-6030,0, IB18) 448-9225 (FAX]

Volume 17, No.4

Ja!1 & TOllY Noto, Editors

FROM THE EDITOR'S DESK

July 1992

Before we get to the detai I s of this issue.

Jan and 1 would like totake this last minute, opportunity to extend an invitation to jilin us July 20.th ihru the 23rd at the KOA in Flagstaff'; Arizona for the !lith National Cortez Rallv"

The an~ual event offers Cortezzers the opportunity (0 get together. exchange ideas and information. rene";' old acquaintances, make new friends, and, have it Cortezzingiy good lime. We will, of course, have our usual line-up of activities and events, many of which have become a regular part of a National Cortez Rally.

The rally fee for the 19rh National is $65 per coach and covers parking for thefour days and the various expenses of the convention. If you were unable In preregister prior to June 30lh and planning-to attend the 19th National Cortez Rally. please. respond with a phone call to The Nariona I at

,--.,...£-444-6030 It will provide us with a !Jerler count of how many to expect.

The FMCA Summer Convention precedes The National Rally by one week in Laramie. Wyoming. Altho. somewhat distant, approximately sao Interstate miles between Laramie and Flagstaff', it's still within an casy rdrtve from the lime the FNICA convention.ends and The National hegins. Frank Le utheu se r, Chapter Pres ident , provides all the details in his article on the Laramie convention as wellasthe schedule and rendezvous plans,

Many a Cortezzer made it 10 Ceraland Park in Columbus, Indiana for the Eastern Regional. We will have a report fur Y{)U in the next issue. We have a good mix of material for you ill this issue, You will find some new places of service; cross-reference part numbers. service tips and information and some new products to consider. The segment on the' Slant Six engine provides troubleshooting practices and service tips. Pete Hallock has an update for the service center for the Wemac 12-volt control panels used in the Kent models and Harland Ranney has an update for ihetrydraulic brake switch for the Clark models. Safety is the key word in dealing with propane and

I Booth offers words of advice from

"Tfrsonal experience. Jim Krantz, Cortez Inc .. has a message ofunportance to. all Cortez owners about his final inventory of parts and Dave Munday, is now stocking those hardto-find Cortez wheels. both these items bear

repeating. You will find some excerpts from Brian Rohcrrsons excel I em an icle on allcQ1<l,tors (MotorHome - May. 1992): recommend getting a copy of the entire art ide and adding it to your service information library, There is still time tojoin the Cruisers, David Gregory details "Barging the, Missisvippi".

Last but riot least. we extend a warm welcome to our new members.

Our thanks to those who have helped along the way and contributed news and information for this issue, We also want to thank the A tori's and Harton's for putting together the Eastern Regional and to Frank andSylviaLeutheuser for circling the Cortez Chapter Wagons in Laramie.

Our very best 10 you all and we hope, thai many of you will Join us in Flagstaff, Arizona July 20th to the 23[d for the 19lh National Cortez Rally.

NATIONAL CORTRZRA.l..LY

The 19th Nationat Cortez Rally will he held atthe KOA in Flagstaff, Arizona on July 20. 21, 22, 23, 1 ':i92, There will be the us ual line-up of ac tivi tics and events, mechanic forums and seminars. craft and handiwork sessions. swap meet. open house. door pr izcs , morning coffee klatches. evening happy hours, anda Fancy hDTS doeuvres hour on Monday night.

Bring your art. craft and hobby items:

Cortezparts and related treasures for the .swap meet; infcrmationai material for the, mechanic forums and seminars: club or individual photo albums of Cortez trips and outings: folding rabies and chairs; and your favorite delectable Jar the Monday night fancy hor doeuvres hour.

The KOA h as dean rest rooms and showers. dump station, laundry facilities, picnic rahle s and grills, propane, ice , groceries, and camper supplies. The KOA's Karnp Kitchen serves up g ood meals ar modest prices with the pancake breakfasts 11 popul ar favorite. The campground is conveniently close to shopping centers and

IN MEMORIAM

Dolores-Evans - Lewiston, CA, Patricia Dykstra.- Hansville, WA Mary Shields - San Jos!';, CA

... _-

, . continued Oil paJ;f 4

other businesses which provide goods and services.

Campsites at (he KOA are sel among giant pine trees and. in addition [0 the aforementioned facilities, each of the sites has water and electric, It is doubtful thai: you will need air conditioners, those that do. will be charged an extra amount and be assigned specific si res. It should be notedthat Flagstaff IS at an elevation of 7,000 feet so, one does not run about or go without a bl arikct ar night. The daily maximum temperature in July is about 7R degrees and the minimum is 48 degrees.

Flagstaff is considered rhe hub of scenic Northern Arizona. As the central city in an area of natural beauty arid historic relevance. it is often called the "City of Seven Wonders" referring to the nearby Grand Canyon, Wapatk i, Sunset Crater, Walnut Canyon. Oak Creek Canyon. Meteor Crater and the San Francisco Peaks.

Geuing to the rally siie at the KDA is miller et1sy. 1,nter.stllte.40 to the Page Exii #201. then a half-mile North on HiwayH9. A~ always. you are welcome to arrive early or stay over after the ratly, however, such arrangements should be made directly with the campground, Contact: Jerry and Corky Sanders, Flagstaff KOA, 5803 N. Highway 89, Hagstaff, Arizona S6001. 602-526-9926,

The' rally fee for the 19th National is $65 per coach and covers parking for the four days and the various expenses of the convention. H you were' unable In preregister prior to June 30th and planning to attend the I Yth National Cortez Rally. please respond with a phone call 10 The National at 818-444-6030. it will provide us w ,jth a beuer ClJUm (if how many to ex peel.

FMCA LARAMIE, WY.

RALLY NEWS

The Family Motor Coach Association summer convention will take place at the University of Wyoming. Laramie, Wyoming, on July 14 .. 15, and 16th, 1992.

The Canez Chapter of the FMCAwill be meeting at the Wal-Mart parking lot at 4037 Grand Ave .. Laramie, WY. Saturday-July II, 1992, so we can caravan as a group to the fairgrounds (approximately 5 minutes) on Sunday July 12, 1992. We will be lining up around lI:OO A.M. If all goes well we will have our chapter meeting at 4:00 P.M, on Sunday, Monday is a free day, for tours and

• THE SHADE TREE MECHANIC

switch and solenoid, replace <is necessary, Lead or connections broken inside of solenoid switch cover - Test and if necessary replace solenoid.

Starter Operates But Will Not Disengage When Starter Switch Is Released.

. Possible causes - Defective SI3J1tr switch, or defective solenoid. Replace defective unit. 'Starter Pinion Jams or Binds.

Starter mounting loose or misaligned - Check to see that the nuts thai hold the starter on the housing studs or attaching screws are tight. Loose attaching parts will cause misalignment of the starter pinion with the flywheel. Also check for broken or chipped teeth on flywheel ring gear.

Starter Will Tum Engine But Engine Will Not Start.

Dirt or moisture on ignition wires and distributor cap - Be sure that me distributor cap and coil is clean especially around the towers. Dirt and grease there can soak up moisture like a sponge. and can easily cause a short, Check for a physically cracked cap, arcing at the distributor cap contacts, burned rotor. If any cable terminals are corroded. be sure 'to clean or replace them. Clean distributor cap tower inserts. Be sure that the spark plug and coil cables terminals are fully seated and fii tightly on the cap lowers. Replace any cracked or shorted cables.

Dirtv or corroded distributor contact points - Clean' points and check for excessive pining and worn surfaces. If blue oxide is present on contacts, this is an indication that. oil or grease has reached thecontact surfaces and contacts should be replaced, Remove rotor and wipe all the old "'rease'from surface of breaker cam. Apply : light film of new Mupar Cam Lubncant on breaker cam only. Do not overlubricate, keep oil and grease away from breaker points. Install contact points, the contact gap should he .014 to .019 inch, check breaker spring tension (17 to 21.5 ounces). Fouledspark plugs - Caused hy an overrich carburetor adjustment or excessive oil consumption - oil entering cylinders due to worn rings or worn valve guides. Improper gap adjustment. Clean and dry plugs aml setgap at .035 inch. Adjust carburetor,

Ignition' Coil Failure - Voltage regulator selling too high. refer to specifications and make necessary adjustments, Coil damaged by excessive heat from engine. Replace coil and inspect condition of distributor points. Coil case or tower cracked or leak at coil tower; replace coil. Coil tower may have a carbon track from tower to primary terminal; wipe tower clean and test coil.

Other items to consider - Condenser failure, improper timing, din or water in the fuel line or carburetor. 11 flooded carburetor, incorrect float

SLANT SIX ENGINE

The following is the eighth installment from the Operating Manual published by Chrvsler (September. 1961) for the model Hi70 and H-225. six cvlinder industrial engine. The manual wa.l· giv~l1t(J The National by Joel C. Smith of Huntington Beach, CA. In our next issue 'we will look a/ engine breathing

and lubrication.

TROUBLE SHOOTI""-G

A good rule to follow when trouble shooting is to make only one adjustment at 11 time. Locate the cause of failure or irregular operation bytheprocess of elimination.

CAUTION: Before rnak ing anyelecrrical tests, air Out the engine compartment thoroughly 10 remove all inflammable fumes.

Starter Will' Not Tum Engine.

Loose or eo~ed battery terminals - Clean terminals and clamps. replace if necessary. Tighten damps securely. Apply a ligbt film of Vaseline 10 the battery terminals, after the

clamps are tightened. .

Battery not fully charged - Test the electrolyte in the battery. Check batter), specific gravity. Full charge reading is l.26(} plus/minus a.ol:'i. Under 1.210 battery needs recharge,

Check starter switch. Replace if defective.

Check wiring for any bad spots or open

circuits,

Inoperati ve Starter - Inspect the starting motor for loose. brush holders, worn or corroded brushes or corrosion on the commutator. To test the starting motor, disconnect the battery cable at the. solenoid switch and touch it firmly to thc solenoid starter terminal; now if the starting motor operates. the trouble is norin the starting motor. if the starting motor fails to operate and a heavy arc occurs when the cable touches thc solenoid starter terminal, a mechanical lock-up of the motor Q[ pinion, or a grounded condition in the motor may be the cause. Failure of the starting motor to operate and no arc in the preceding test indica res poor brush contact or an open circuit in the motor winding. Repair or replacethe starting motor as required.

Starter Turns But Drive Pinion Does Not Engage.

Possible causes - Starter ClUTCh slipping. replace drive. Broken teeth on flywheel drive gear. replace flywheel ring gear Armature shaft rusted, dirty, or dry due to lack of lubrication.

Starter Plunger Vibrates Back And Forth When Sl3J1er Switch Is Engaged.

Battery low - Test specific gravity of battery, recharge or replace battery. Faulty wiring- Test for loose connections at starter

2

July 1!)92

level setting, or a faulty fuel pump. We look at those-next;

Fuel DOes Not Reach The Carburetor - Out of fuel, tank empty; tank selector s,:",'itch (on dual tanks) set to wrong tank: vent pipe in fuel tank clogged; fuel lines restricted,

Fuel Pump NntOperaring - Inspect filter bowl gasket, replace if damaged. Tighten filter bowl retaining S'-TeWS. Inspect for diaphragm failure (with engine running. a leaking diaphragm will always resulr in gasol ine leakage ar the fuel pump air vent}. Inspect valves. This requires disassembly of the pump. Failure (if the valves. is more Common than failure at thediaphragm. Test fuel delivery rate. Disconnect fuel line .ar carburetor and while cranking me engine with ignition off,. discharge the fuel into a suitable container, The amount of gasoline discharged for five pulsations of the pump should be 90 to 100 centimeters (approximately 1/5 pint).

FuelReaches. Carburetor But-Does Not Reach Cylinders - Remove spark plugs and see

if they are moist. If there. is no trace of gasoline

in the cylinders the carburetor may be out of adjustment or the float level may be too low or the float valve stuck on the seat or the carburetor fuel jets or passages clogged ~ wirb din or gum.

Carburetor Flooded - If the spark plugs are wet, this indicates the choke has been used too long or there is an overly rich carburetor mixture. Push the choke button in, open the thrnttlcfully and press the starter button.

SERVICE TIPS

A thorough engine check begins with the basics: ignition. compression, and fuel. Here are some tips offered inihe May, 1992 issue of Home Mechanix magazine.

Check Ignition:

Disconnect a spark-plug wire at one end of the engine and remove the plug. Then reconnect the wire to the spark plug and. watch the electrodes while a helper cranks the engine. A healthy Ignition system should produce a min reddish spark or a fat blue. or white one. Remove tbe other spark plugs one at a time arid perform the same lest after marking the wires. Then check the deposits on each plug's insulator. If you see wet or dry black deposits (and the peV system is working properly) worn valve guides or piston rings. are leaking oil into the combustion chambers. The usual symptoms are high oil consumption, blue exhaust smoke and reduced power ann

compression, ..

Check Compression:

With the spark plugs removed and the ignition coil wire or electrical connector disconnected. take a compression reading at each cylinder. According to Chrysler, readings

July 19091

for all engines should be at least 100 psi and within 10 percent of each other. Low readings indicate a compression leak in those cylinders. Readings above 200 psi. on the other hand,

to.. -dicate that combustion deposits are raising ~mpression above normal levels. The usual symptoms are a rattling sound up hills and white spark plug deposits. Low compression at two adjacent cylinders usually means a blown cylinder-head gasket. Other signs are wetness down the side of the engine, coolant on the dipstick and clouds of while exhaust. The engine will also be down on power and may be difficult to start.

Check Fuel Aow:

A fuel pressure gauge is a good way to. get an accurate read on how well the pump is performing. Check manual for nominal readings. ]f pressure is low, begin by replacing the fuel filter. if that doesn't help, then go on 1.0 check fuel pump and fuel lines.

Check The Valve Train:

Withtbe engine warm and idling, begin by listening at the valve cover or covers using a mechanic's stethoscope or piece of vacuum line, LOud tawing means.a valve is closing too firmly against its seat. An adjustment may solve the problem if the engine has adjustable valve lifters or rocker arms. Otherwise, suspect a worn lifter or camshaft lobe.

In checking the timing chain, listen fur a whirring or slapping sound; it means the chain has stretched.and loosened on its sprockets. A .i. '"\maged chain can cause hard starting and ~uced power if it slips, or it can cause valves and pistons to collide if itbreaks,

Check crankshaft bearings:

While you can't look inside an engine block without removing the oil pan, you can listen for worn crankshaft bearings. Giveaways are a brief knocking sound after you start the engine and low oil pressure readings.

Be wary of oil leaks. Those at a valve cover or oil pan are common as gaskets dry with age. Replacing gaskets is. a do-it-yourself job. But leaks from the bark ofthe engineoften indicate a worn crankshaft or bearing and may need the belpof a mechanic. (Bob Markovich. Home Mechanix - May, 1992).

PROPANE SAFETY

The article about Propane in Highways (May, 1992},the Good Sam publication, was informative and enlightening. I did notice a particular detail missing, i.e., the positioning of the tanks while refilling in relation to use,

A tank used horizontally should be refilled horizontally. A tank for use vertically should NOT be used horizontally. I'found out the hard way and alrnosi fatal way!

I can't imagine that I'm the only one who thought/thinks a Propane tank is a Propane ... 'lk

., We have a '64 Cortez that has TWO horizontal 5-gallon tanks. In preparing for a trip, recently, Ltook both tanks to it local service station and had them filled as usual. ] have nevermentioned to them that they were

used in a horizontal position so they were filled upright. When I replaced the tanks in the Cortez, I noticed a slight leak around the valve stem of one. I took it out and. since I had a full BBQ tank of idenrical . outward appearance, L placeditin the LPG space,

When we stopped for the night, I found the frig was off and relit it. Fortunately. we had a cold chicken and potato salad.

The next AM the frig was .off arid it wouldn't relight and I couldn't get the stove Iii more than a second or two FORTUNATELY/ MIRACULOUSLY.

I figured that I had a slow leak and lost all the Propane driving the 300 plus miles, So, I went til a station for a refill and leak check,

The attendant exclaimed, "You not only have overfilled tanks but one is mounted wrong and you're gctting straight liquid in your lines. Your regulator has been frozen and ruined, lucky for you as you should have blown up. Its happened to a lot of others who didn't know one tank from another!"

He released a lot of gas from eachtank, left the BBQ vertical use tank shut off, replaced the ruined regulator for about $50 and wished us luck on ourmerry way.

Weare still alive, in spite ofmy ignorance, and much the wiser.

I've heard ofsome units suddenly burning up for no apparent reason and have since wondered, ,. Is tins why'?"

Gil Booth '64 Cortez Yarnell, AZ ~5362

ALTERNATOR DIAGNOSIS

Simple checkout skills are valuable when alternator problems occur says Brian Robertson in his feature article in the May, 1992 issue of MotorHome magazine.

., Alternator capacity is important and should be matched to the power requirements of the motorhome. If the batteries are discharged faster than the alternator can reverse the process, they will become fully discharged and the accessories and the engine will cease to function,

An alternator's capacity is described in output amperage; typically ranging from 60 10 125 amps on most motorhomes and as high as 250 amps on the large bus-type units.

An alternator's output voltage potential is very high, so high . .ln fact. that it can literally cook the batteries if it isn't controlled by a voltage regulator. The regulator ensures that the voltage stays-in the 13.'5 to 14.5-volt range, which Is the range for charging most 12-volt batteries. The regulator may be located externally or internally in the alternator ease."

In troubleshooting, Mr. Robertson goes on to say, "Three items indicate something is amiss in the charging system: 'the dashboard idiot light comes on: the dash ammeter gauge reads zero or discharge; or if yo.ur rig has a voltmeter, the readings are below 12m ovcrl S volts. Start the diagnosis. atthe battery.

If the battery has seen better days, all the charging in the world won't restorecapacity,

3

Don't be too quick to blame the charging system when the hatter)" is at fault, Checking alternator function is fairly simple. With a rnultimeter set on volts, check the battery voltage with the engine off. It should read up to 12.7 volts if the battery is fully charged. If it's partially depleted, voltage may be 11 to 12 volts. Start the engine and run it at fast idle (about 1500 rpm) The voltmeter should show between 13.5 and 14.5 volts at the battery terminals. which means the alternator is OK. (Cortezzers should take into account the long cabl e runs from altema tor to rear, batteries and ensure that there is no loss due to any cable resistance).

If the voltage is consistently above 14.5 volts and the batteries frequently need water, voltage regulation is faulty and should be checked by a technician.

Make sure that the battery cables are in good shape and that the terminals are dean. Alternator voltage may check out OK, but corrosion between the battery lugs and the terminals can restrict the amount of current. delivered to the battery .. .If you are in doubt. remove the terminals, clean them and the battery poSTS with a wire brush and reinstall. A solution of water and baking soda will neutralize acid buildup and dissolve corrosion.

Check the drive belt for proper tension. A loose, slipping drive belt can cause a reducjion in the output of the alternator; 11 belt-that istoo right can cause heat thai damages the alternator

Pulley hearings. .

If your battery is receiving the proper voltage but won't stay charged, have. it loadtested. Most service centers have equipment that can apply the necessary load to the battery to determine condition.

Also, make sure the battery is not being slowly discharged by a parasitic drain, such as a light lefton in a compartment. Use the ammeter function of your rnultimeter to check for parasitic drain. Tum everything off, and check for current flow from the battery. Any reading on the ammeter indicates a leak. If a multimeter is not available, connect a 12-volt test light between the cable lug and the battery post: current flow will cause the lest light to glow."

In making any repairs or replacements be sure to pay auern ion to connections and polarity. Make simple diagrams, notations of color codes and terminal connections as you go along.

When work is completed, Mr. Robertson suggests, "Start the engine and observe the indicator (idiot light, ammeter, or VOltmeter), An idiot light should not be illuminated. A voltmeter should read 13 ,5 to 14.5 volts (13 plus or minus, if the batteries have been depleted and are accepting II lot of current from the alternator); an ammeter should show that a charge is occuning, Run the engine for 50rHl minutes. Stop the engine and check the mourning bolts and drive belt adjustments. readjust and tighten if-necessary"

FMCA Laramie continued from page 1 getling acquainted and anything elsr you would like to do. Convention starts Tuesday morning with coffee and donuts at The Bluebird Plaza.

If you are not a member of FMC A you may auend as a guesr of an F'VICAmember 10 see "if this is your "'CLIP of lea" before joining. The rally fee for FMC.<\ members is S,)5.0(} paid before June 26. 1992. If not preregistered by then, the fee is 575.00 at the gate. The fee for non-members is $75 preregistered and $95 at the gale.

It is not necessary to currently own a Cortez in order to be a member of ' the FMCA Cortez Chapter. but you must be a member of F'VICA. Look forward In seeing you in Laramie.

Frank Lcuthcuscr, President F\lCAConc7:Chapter

RV BARGE CRUISE

In the January newsleuer I proposed Curtezzers get together for a most unique cruise .otfered by Caravanas Voyagers, one in which you barge the Mississippi. You have been reading .abour :it here in the. newsletter and The The Mississippi River Barge Cruise is .schcduled for October :I J to Novem bcrl l , 1992.

Gary Dickey of Caravanas Voyagers has set aside 20 spaces for the Cortez group, initially. If, by July 19 .. 1992, the Cortez group is unable to fill the allotted spaces, then whatever is left will be 'opened 10 the general public. This pre-arrangement is three and a half month, prior 10 our departure date o fOCiO ber 31 , jl,llJ:'.

The COSI per coach with two persons is $2975, solo traveler $2745. A .$500 deposit must accompany your reservation request with the remainder to be paid in rull(i() days prior to departure. It should be noted thaI the fares mentioned are subject III change/increase due to several variables.

In c lude.d: Services or

Wagtmmaxter/Hnstv; CoaST Guard certified cruise; Outside RV space with a view: Full hookups while on board: Six sightseeing tours: Five meals and pot luc k ; Live entertainment: New Orleans trolley pass; St. Ch ar le s Street Car pass; Horse drawn carriage ride: Jacket. cap and patch: Lots or fun and fellowship.

For those interested in "Barging The Mississippi" gel in touch with Gary Dickey at Caravanas Voyagers at XOO-9JJ-9332. Gary is the rep working on this cruise 1'01' us and will send you an information packet with <ill the details, He will be happy to answer any of your questions and be sure \0 mention Cortez Cruise:

David Gregory '77 Cortez Seattle. WA 981 17

GLACIER NP RESTRICTIONS

After years, of planning and public involvement. officials at Montana's Glacier

National Park have announced plans to begin phasing in the park's approved three-year Transportatlon Plan over the next three seasons,

Park officials will begin implementing vehicle size restrictions on the following schedule: summer 1.992, 28 feel long and 8 1/2 feet wide, including mirrorsrsummer 1993. 24 feel long andx teet wide. including Illlrtors;summerI994, 20 feet long and 7 If2 feet wide. including: mlrrors.'These restrictions reflect the maximum length of a mot orhome or c omb inc d length of mcitorhome and lowed vehicle,

The plan was devised 'to address problems relating: 10 vehicle congestion and safety that have re xultcd from the steep, narrow, winding. road: roadside turnouts. which are not designed 10 accommodate todays large vehicles: and limited parking: at Logan Pass Visitor Center, located on the summit of the rnad where it crosses the Continental Divide;

According to park officials, the historic Going-To-The-Sun Road which was completed in 1932 and designated a Civil E,ngineeril1g Hisroric Landmark in lY~n. cannot safely handle large vehicles without major re-eug me ermg and construction. which could damage the natural and cultural value of the area. Many of the 2-million people who visit Glacier each year travel the road during the summer.

The 1992 and 1993 summer limitations will be JIl dreci from 111 i d June rnroug h Labor Day. The fall and spring: llmiiarious will be relaxed to vehicles 30 feet IOi1g and R 1(2 kl:! wide from September 8. l~~~ through June 13. 199'3. and to vehicles 2R feel long and 8 feetwide from September l:'i. 19931hrough Decemoer 31,1993.

Beginning January I. I '!94 .. the yearround maximum dimensions of've hiclc s allowed on the Going-to-the-Sun Road will be 20 feet long and 7 1/2 Ieet w idc , including mirrors.

For additional inf'orrnution ubo ut restrictions contact Glacier National Park. Wesl Glacier. \IT 599.16. 406-888-5441. (FMCA Magazine - .\13y. 1992)

SAFETY ON THE ROAD

Safcty on The road depends on (1 ) You, the driver; (2) The condition uf your vehicle: (3) Traffic and highway coruli lion S and a certainty of understanding all thre-e. Remember: Proper operation. per io d ic maintenance and safely inxpcctiuns help provide - Economical operation (If your vehicle. safety 10 you and your passengers. and dependable transportation. Observe all traffic laws and make safe driving: a habit. (Cortez Operators Manual - March. 1(71).

While wc arc at it. here are a few more suggestions from thatfirst page of the manual.

When Parked: Don 't invi lethcft by leaving your Cortez. unlocked or by leaving valuable articles in view.

4

In Traffic: Study and under stand sunuunding traffic conditions before shlwing, passing, turning or lane-changing, so you won't run into the unexpected. Maintain proper spacing, and check r earwar conditions too. When the light turns gree1fl{i; make sure cross-wise traffic has stopped before starting up. Anticipate your next-move and signal your intention (It a reasonable.urne

to the drivers around you.

Driving At Night: Be especially alert for pedestrians and unlighted vehicles at dusk and after dark. Lxe "low beam" when approaching or following other vehicles. Tum Oil your headlamps at early dusk and during had weather. to help other drivers sec your Cortez,

Inclement Weather: Proceed cautiously in inclement weather, until you arc sure it is safe ro dri vc faster. B~ prepared for sudden crosswi nds when crossing bridges or viaducts. Remember thatsome wet pavement is as treacherous us icc, and. bridges and viaducts can he slipperier.

Bad Roads: Remember, dust obscures vehicles and obstacles as completely as fog; drive cautiously in dust-clouded areas. Avoid >!Iiking sharp rocks and potholes to avoid unnecessary (and ofien hidden) tire damage. Remember to clean off headlamps, tail lamps and side markers after -driving on wei .• dusty, or muddy roads.

Winter Driving: Drive extra cautiously when winter comes. until you adjust to wiru- . uri vingcondirinns. Rcuicrnber side sLre,e'fl..; may be slippery lcr dill'S attcr main streets have been cleared. anti drive accordingly. In heavy snow or on icy roads, driv e more cautiously, allow more room to stop. and. use. the brakes conservatively. and reduce the possibility of skid by using special lire~. To gel moving in snow, press very lightly onthe accelerator pedal. increase pressure very slowly. and don 't spin the wheels. If the wheels spin, they will tum the. snow to slick ice or dig your wheels in deeper, Sand. rock -sali, Liquid Tire Chain. or a piece of carpeting under the drive wheels can help if you do not get hogged down. Remember thai wet ice-at about 32' F i, extremely slippery; drive very cautiously.

Extended Trips: Before and regularly during the trip. check-tire pressure, windshield washer and other fluid levels. and have necessary maintenance performed on a regular basis. When driving along unfamiliar routes. it is safer to drive during daylight hours. and it IS wi se ip obtain up-To-date; maps androute information beforehand. Remember .that a high percentage of rural accidents 1I11!0lve head-all collisions and drive accordingly. Budget your driving over the length of your trip. Share the driving or ta>rext breaks. When driving alone fnr a h)~, period, counteract monotony by changing radio stations. changing healer scitings, opening windows. etc. If fatigue sets in. pull into.arest area.

July 1992

Always be prepared fOT stopped or slow moving vehicles ahead, Maintainan adequate distance between your Cortez and the vehicle ahead, to reduce the. chances of read-end ':tilhsions, If you smell. or otherwisesuspect

,~hat exhaust fumes arc entering the passenger compartment. drive only with all windows and vents fully open, and then only until the cause.canbe determined and corrected,

KENT CONTROL PANEL UPDATE

At the s uggeSlion of The )I arionul, contacted Jensen Indusrrics in Santa Ana. California regarding the Wcrnac 12-volt electrical control panel in my '74 Kent model. The panel is mounted directly above the refrigerator and in some coaches, on the left si!1e of the frig cabinet,

(Wemac supplied the control panels for the Kent models, at least 1T0m '73 on. Wemac was absorbed by Jensen Industries and moved 10 their facility inSanta Ana).

The service department at Jensen referred me to Mr. Jack Beckingharn at JRV Products, 1933 E. Pomona St,. Santa Ana, CA 92705, 714-259-9772. Jensen is referring all the Wemac Control Panels to JRY Products. I spoke with Mr. Bcckingham who told me that rheWemac technician is in twice a week. If your unit is in need of testing or repair. bring or ship the control panel O)lLY. they have nn insurance coverage lor your coach if leftthere.

.~ was told that most unit, are repaired and ready for return in about a week.

Please advise Cortezzers of the change of place of service andaddress for the repair of theWemac Control Panel.

Peter Hallock "74 Cortez Laguna-Beach. CA 92651

BRAKE LIGHT SWITCH

My brake lights failed to work unless extreme pressure was applied. and then, sometimes not at all. Troubleshooting revealed that the hydraulic switch was worn nut. The Clark Cross-Reference numbers didn't help me. but an experienced part, man came [0 the rescue. He was able [0 come up with a Borg Warner S-194 Stop Light Switch, and this Is the correct unit. The cost was about $6 and I suggest that other Corfezzers scarse items should yours abo die after 25 years or service.

Harland Ranney ·66Corte7.

Ft. Collins, CO &0521

WATER TANK CLEANER

Sparklet.lean Fresh Water Tank -Cleaner and. Dewinterizer is a one-step. premeaxured solution that kills bacteria and algae when flushed through your RV's water system,

\'-' Sparkle Clean abo effectively cleans out antifreeze when you dewintcrizc, One boule cleans tanks up to 100 gallons in size. Guardian Products, 1038 Leigh Ave., San Jose. CA 9S 126, 408-971-0919.

PROPANE SAFETY VALVE

Gasforce 1 is brand new and will do for propane whara circuit breaker docs for electricity - shut offthe supply automatically if a major leak develops. Because the unit is placed between the gas tunk valve and the regulator, Gasforce I can be used not only on Rvswith portable gas-tanks bur also with barbecue grill s and or her propane fueled appliances. A model tor permanently mounted propane ranks should be out in a few monrhs. According LU company literature, Gasforcc 1 features an easy-toread dial gauge and adjustable sensitivity and .is suitable for high and low pressure applications. Developed in AUSTralia. the product is distributed by RV Masters, r.o. Box 1977, San Leandro. CA 94577. 510- '\69-2194.

POWER GE~ERATING SYSTEM

An AC power generating systemthat weighs less than 50 pounds and occupies less than one cubic foot of space has be e n intr od uce d hy Power Technology Inc. Offered in 2_SO(lOwatt and 5,()()ODwatluni(s, the custom-designed aliemator sysicrn is said to c liminate the need nlr a separate diesel or gasoline generator in many cases.

The IlC'W system consists of cus tom Ddc s ig nc d alternator, a crio l i ng blower .. an /\C power unit, ami a remote display panel. The bclt-dr ivcn altcrnutor mounts directly onto rhe engine block and according to company literature, provides "precise II S-vnlt/60-Hcrtz power at any speed. from idle to maximum revolutions.' The solid-state AC power unit can be mounted in any convenient, out-of-the-way location, while the display pane lis normally placed in a position where the status of the system can he viewed readily,

According to the manufacturer, the' power generating systcm is derived from a product originally developed for usc on boats, has. been thoro ugh.y tested, and provides sufficient power to start and run an air conditioner, refrigerator. microwave oven, or other appliances. Power Technology lnc., 1200 S.Sherman. Suite 100. Richardson, lX 75081,214-437-06!,;O.

FLUORESCENT LIGHT

The RY-12 by Tck-Tron is a compact under-the-counter fluorescent light and one of the most efficient on the market. The unit will operate on both 12 volts AC or lJC and at 1.1 watts consumes I inle power and runs. cool. The light will produce about 1125 lumens which is roughly the equivalent of a 60"walt incandescent light and with specially designed lens,dirfuscs the light over a wide work area. A double unit, twice the sizeof the RV-12 is available and will provide twice the light. Tek- Tron Enterprises, 3122 W. Alpine Ave., Santa Ana, c." 92704. 714-641 ~2005.

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TIE DOWN

Shdl \laid & Engineering's .E-Z- TY allows you to secure cargo or other hems without the need for cumbersome knots. The product's self-lying system is stranger and more versatile than, "bung ee cords" and won't lose tension, scratch a vehicle finish. corrode or rust as it is made of a tough, lightweight. material. The item is available in two sizes, 3 1/2 inch 'and :'\ 1/4 inch to accommodate most cord sizes, Shell Mold & Engineering, 17422 Martinal Rd., Suite 4121, Dan Diego, CA 92127,619-674-5766.

BATTERY BUFFER

A new voltage regulator (525) from 5 tandard 's Blue Streak divi sion neutralizes excess charging voltage before it can damage your cars battery and electrical system. Dubbed the VR-166X, the new regulator features added circuitry that signals an overcharge c ornl i i iun by pulsing the vehicle "s dash hoard charging light. Standard Motor Products, :n-Ix Northern Blvd .. Long Island City,)lY 1) 10 1.718.392-0200.

RV POSTCARDS

Although (Jot really a new Idea Spangler X-Pre~si()ns has improved upon il - beautiful full co lor custom postcards [r o rn ynurfavorite photos. Picture yourself in frunt of your Curtez .. a greeting placed abnve and your name below, anti 'return address on the hack of the card, Great for sending to. family and friends when on the road, especially those you haven't seen lor a long time. They arc. also ideal to give, as a remembrance, to those new found friends you've met along the way. Five hundred cards costa little over sixty dollars. For info kit and s amples, contact: Spangler X-Pressions, P,O. Box 6262. Kansas City. K5 66) 06. 800-466-1616 ext 286.

GREASE FIGHTER

Bio-Blue. a nontoxic biodegradahle cleaner; 11 ses detergents and su rfacrants to 11 oat a way car filth without hurt ing rubber hoses or fabric. And it won't harm plants. animals or people. Use Bio BIll fullDstreng:th to melt away engine g:rease; a 40: I water/Hie IUu mix to wasb.cars: and, a 16:1 mix for interiors. Bio Blu. 233 N. California Ave., City of Industry, CA 91744; X(JO-266-4387.

NEW SPRAYER

Eurospray is a new spray container that uses air todispense its contents making it the new alternative to protect the environment. The unit consists of a .canistcr, pump base, lid, spray-stem mechanism and noz z le , Eurosprayhas an I j -07. capacity. You pump it by hand [0 about 71 pounds per square inch; the pressurized air then d.spenses the liquid contents in a fine mist. Most liquids including thinned paints Can be used in the

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New Sprayer continued/rom page 5

Eurospray which sells for about $8. LDS Systems, !J08 S. Tyron SI.. S nile 2200, Charlotte, NC 2H202, 704-332-2336.

POWER PACKAGE

Campbell Hausfeld's new cordless air compressor is both a compressor and a rechargeable power pack. As a compressor, it delivers up to 220 psi, and as a power pack it can boost a weak car battery without jumper cables or power 12-volt tno ls , televisions and appliances. On a fully charged bauery, the unit will run up to 1 1/2 hours. The compressor comes wi th a

recharging cord for 11 O-volt outlet (recharge time is 8 (0 JO hours) and a 12-volt cord that connects to the cigarette lighter (3-hour rec hurg e while you dr ive ). Campbell Hausfeld, 100 Production Dr., Harrison, OH 45030, 800-634-4793.

POWER CONVERTER

Magne'Tek's 7200 series of switch-mode power converters was designed to provide well-filtered direct-current (DC) power 10 accommodate today' s RV appliances. According to the manufacturer, the everconstant "hum" associated with ferroresonant converters is absent in this new product.

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The first model of the new series. the 7250, is UL-listed and rated at 50 amps. Company literature states that it provides the most efficient regulated power supply avail able to recreational vehicles. The 725[) weighs less than five pounds and can be"" mounted at any angle, including sideways

and even upside down.

A 30, 40 and 75-amp model will soon be out. Encased in an all-aluminum chassis. units include a l20-vult input line cord. a DC wiring compartment, and an electron ically controlled va riablc -spee d cooling fan. Magne'Ick, 721 N. Webster St., Kokomo, IN 46901, 317-452-5444.