Glossary of RV Terms

Alumicage

Definition

Coachmen's exclusive Alumicage™ aircraft grade aluminum framed construction throughout the walls and roof, provides a solid and lightweight superstructure.

Anode rod

Definition

When used in a water heater, an anode rod attracts corrosion causing products in the water. These products attack the anode rod instead of the metal tank itself. The anode rod should be inspected yearly and changed when it is reduced to about 1/4 of its original size. The rods are used in steel water heater tanks: an aluminum tank has an inner layer of anode metal to accomplish the same thing. Anode rods should not be installed in an aluminum tank.

Awning

Definition

The canvas or aluminum shade which is mounted on an RV. They may be automatic, in which case the awning is installed on a spring-loaded roll-up, or they may be manually propped up by a pole..

Axle ratio

Definition

The ratio between the pinion and ring gears in the differential that multiply the torque provided by the engine. It is the number of drive line revolutions required to turn the axle one time. For example, with a 4.10:1 axle the drive line turns 4.1 times for each full axle revolution. The higher the number, the more torque and thus more towing power. However, higher axle ration also mean less speed.

Ball Mount

Definition

The part of the hitch system that supports the hitch ball and connects it to the trailer coupler. Ball mounts are available in load-carrying and weight-distributing configurations. An adjustable ball mount allows a hitch ball to be raised, lowered and tilted in small increments to allow fine tuning of the spring bar setup and to compensate for tow vehicle "squat," which occurs after the trailer coupler is lowered onto the ball.

BCW

Definition

Base Curb Weight (BCW) is the weight of a vehicle with standard equipment and a full tank of fuel. It does not include passengers, cargo or optional equipment.

Black Water

Definition

Disposal water from toilet system, held in holding tank until you dump it, in large tanks or dumping station available at most campgrounds.

Brake Controller

Definition

A control unit mounted inside your RV that allows electric trailer brakes to become activated in harmony with the braking of the tow vehicle. This device can be used to adjust trailer brake intensity, or to manually activate the trailer brakes.

Breakaway Switch

Definition

A safety device that activates the trailer brakes in the event the trailer becomes accidentally disconnected from the hitch while traveling.

BTU

Definition

British Thermal Unit. A measurement of heat required to raise the temperature of one pound of water one degree Fahrenheit. RV air-conditioners and furnaces are BTU-rated.

Cabover

Definition

The portion of a Class C motorhome which overhangs the driver and navigator seats.

CCC

Definition

The Cargo Carrying Capacity (CCC) is the maximum permissible weight of personal belongings that can be added. CCC is equal or less than GVWR minus UVW, full fresh water weight, and full LP gas weight.

Chassis

Definition

The frame plus the "running gear" like engine, transmission, driveshaft, differential, and suspension. A body (sometimes referred to as "coachwork"), which is usually not necessary for integrity of the structure, is built on the chassis to complete the RV.

Class A

Definition

The Class A motorhome, also commonly referred to as the conventional motorhome, is the largest, most luxurious of the motorized RVs - a virtual "home-away from-home" on wheels, fully loaded and equipped for short trips, lengthy vacations and fulltiming. The Class A is entirely constructed on a bare, specially designed motor vehicle chassis.

Class B

Definition

Also commonly referred to as the van camper, the Class B motorhome is a passenger van that has been customized to include temporary sleeping, eating and bathroom facilities.

Class C

Definition

The class C motorhome, sometimes referred to as a mini-motorhome, provides the conveniences of a larger motorhome in a scaled-down version and at a lower price. The Class C is built on an automotive manufactured van frame with an attached cab section.

Condensation

Definition

The result of warm moisture-laden air contacting cold window glass. Keeping a roof vent open helps to reduce the humidity levels.

Converter

Definition

A converter is device that converts 120 volt A/C (alternating current) to 12 volt DC (direct current). The RV devices mostly run on 12 volt DC power that is supplied by the battery, which allows the RV to function independently. When "shore power" (an electrical supply) is available, the converter changes the voltage from 120 to 12 volt to supply the appliances and to recharge the battery.

CW

Definition

Curb Weight (CW); also known as Net Weight. The weight of the RV as it is sitting on the lot, without the personal load you will be adding.

Delamination

Definition

Describes the separation of exterior fiberglass paneling from its luan substrate in the sidewall of an RV. Usually caused by moisture intrusion and gives the exterior fiberglass a wavy or bubbled appearance. Depending on the scale of the delamination, it can be costly to repair.

Diamond Shield

Definition

Diamond Shield is an 8mil pressure sensitive urethane film which contains UV inhibitors which resist yellowing. Diamond Shield Paint Protection Film is designed to preserve the beauty of ALL exterior auto type finishes. Diamond Shield eliminates paint chips and damage caused by stone chips, bug acids, road debris and weathering. Installation of Diamond Shield on your vehicle at the factory WILL prevent any damage caused in transportation from the factory to the dealership...and for years to come. Diamond Shield's exclusive system wraps edges on the hood, generator doors and their compartments. No snaps, nuts or fasteners. No holes need to be drilled into your investment. There is no wind noise, no paint chafing and no special care is needed, just wash and polish the way you always have. Diamond Shield will help your investment retain its value and will save time and money in reconditioning costs while allowing the color brilliance to shine through.

Dinette

Definition

A booth-like dining area in which the table may be lowered to convert into a bed.

Dinghy

Definition

A vehicle towed behind a motorhome, sometimes with two wheels on a special trailer called a tow dolly, but often with all four wheels on the ground.

DSI

Definition

Direct Spark Ignition. This term refers to the method of igniting the main burner on a propane fired appliance. The burner is lit with an electric spark and the flame is monitored by an electronic circuit board. This ignition system is used in refrigerators, furnaces and water heaters.

Dually

Definition

A pickup truck, or light-duty tow vehicle, with four tires on one rear axle.

Duratube

Definition

The Coachmen exclusive Duratube™ copper LP lines help to extend the life of your appliances. Corrosion-resistant copper lines run the full length from LP source to the appliance. Double flared ends ensure a tight seal.

Equa-Flex

Definition

Manufactured by Trailair, Equa-Flex is a rubber-cushioned equalizer positioned between the two leaf springs.

Even Cool

Definition

Coachmen's exclusive Even Cool™ air conditioning system uses radius corners in the duct to ensure maximum, consistent airflow through the system.

Fifth Wheel

Definition

Designed to be affixed and towed by a pickup equipped with special hitch in the truck bed, these two-level units can provide the greatest living of all towable RVs. Fifth-wheel travel trailers come equipped with all the comforts of home, and are perfectly adaptable for weekend getaways, family vacations and fulltiming.

Filon

Definition

A brand of fiberglass sheeting commonly used in RVs with fiberglass sidewall construction.

FMCA

Definition

Family Motor Coach Association.

Fresh Water Tank

Definition

One of two filling ports which feeds the fresh water system of the RV. One port has a hose connecting the RV to the water hookup; the other port is used as a funnel to fill the water tank for traveling.

Gaucho

Definition

A type of built-in couch in an RV that converts into a bed. It often conceals storage compartments.

GAWR

Definition

Every axle has a Gross Axle Weight Rating (GAWR). It is the maximum allowable weight that the components (tires, wheels, brakes) of each axle are designed to support.

GCWR

Definition

Gross combined weight rating (GCWR) is the maximum permissible weight of the tow vehicle and trailer combined when both are fully loaded for travel. GCWR also applies to a motor home towing a vehicle or trailer behind it. GCWR minus GVWR represents the allowable weight for the towed vehicle. Note: The hitch receiver mounted on the towing vehicle must be rated for this amount of weight. If it is rated for less that is the maximum amount you can tow.

Generator

Definition

An engine powered device fuelled by gasoline, diesel fuel or propane for generating 120-volt AC power.

GFI

Definition

One of two filling ports which feeds the fresh water system of the RV. One port has a hose connecting the RV to the water hookup; the other port is used as a funnel to fill the water tank for traveling.

Gray Water

Definition

Disposal water from the sinks and the shower. In some units, this is held in a tank separate from black water. As with black water, it is dumped in large tanks or dumping station available at most campgrounds.

GVWR

Definition

The gross vehicle weight rating (GVWR) is the maximum allowable total weight of a vehicle or trailer that is loaded, including the weight of the vehicle itself plus fuel, passengers, cargo, and trailer tongue weight.

Heat Strip

Definition

A heat strip is an electric heating element located in the air conditioning system with the warm air distributed by the air conditioner fan and ducting system. They typically have 1500 watt elements (about the same wattage as an electric hair dryer).

Hitch Weigh

Definition

The amount of weight imposed on the hitch when the trailer is coupled. Also referred to as "tongue weight". Hitch weight for a travel trailer can be 10-15 percent of overall weight; fifth-wheel hitch weight is usually 18-20 percent of the overall weight.

Holding Tanks

Definition

Tanks that hold water. There are three different holding tanks on most RVs; fresh water tank, gray water tank and black water tank. The fresh water tank holds fresh water that can be stored for later use. The gray water tank holds the waste water from the sinks and showers. The black water tank holds the waste from the toilet.

Hybrid Travel Trailer

Definition

TAn RV that combines the features of a pop-up camper and a hard-sided travel trailer. In its camping configuration, one or more bunks fold down from the side with canvas tent covers. When in travel, the bunks fold up into the side of the trailer leaving four hard sides.

Inverter

Definition

An inverter is a device that changes 12 volt battery power to 120 volt AC power. The amount of available power depends on the storage capacity of the batteries and the wattage rating of the inverter.

JT's Strong Arm Jack Stabilizer

Definition

JT's Strong Arm Jack Stabilizer eliminates the inherent chassis movement problem found in travel trailers and fifth wheels and eliminates the need for ineffective tripods or pin stabilizers.

Laminate

Definition

A sandwich of structural frame members, wall paneling, insulation and exterior covering that is adhesive-bonded under pressure and heat to form an RV's walls, floor and roof..

LP

Definition

Liquefied Petroleum gas, either propane or butane. Propane fuels RV appliances, such as the stove and refrigerator.

Luan

Definition

A 1/8" plywood used as a substrate to hang fiberglass onto RV sidewalls.

Monitor Panel

Definition

A visual indicator of fluid levels within the storage tanks of the RV.

NCC

Definition

Net Carrying Capacity (NCC) is the amount of cargo, passenger and fluid weight that can be added to an RV without exceeding its GVWR. The NCC label in an RV may not include the weight of dealer installed or factory installed options already on the vehicle. Subtract UVW from the GVWR and the result is what can be added to the factory weight.

No-Mess

Definition

Coachmen's exclusive No-Mess™ Termination system is an easy to swivel boom arm that provides a convenient storage location for the termination hose. Your storage bay stays cleaner and the hose can remain connected after use.

OSB

Definition

Oriented strand board. A competitor to plywood, OSB is made from dried wood strands mixed with wax and adhesive, formed into thick mats, and then hot-pressed into panels. The major disadvantage of OSB is that if it gets exposed to significant amounts of water or moisture, the edges expand by up to 15%.

Pop-Up

Definition

A lightweight camper with sides that collapse for towing and storage, the folding camping trailer (aka pop-up) combines the experience of open-air tent camping with sleeping comforts, basic conveniences and weather protection found in other RVs.

Power Stroke

Definition

a Ford 6.0L Turbo Diesel engine, 235hp, 440 lbs.-ft. torque.

Propane

Definition

LPG or liquefied petroleum gas. Used in RVs for heating, cooking and refrigeration.

Receiver

Definition

The portion of a hitch that permits a hitch bar or shank to be inserted. The receiver may be either 11/2-, 15/8- or 2-inch square; the smallest being termed a mini-hitch.

RVDA

Definition

Recreation Vehicle Dealers Association.

RVIA

Definition

Recreational Vehicle Industry Association.

Safety Chains

Definition

A set of chains that are attached to the trailer A-frame and connected to the tow vehicle while towing. Safety chains are intended to keep the trailer attached to the tow vehicle in the event of hitch failure, preventing the trailer from complete separation. They should be installed using an X-pattern (criss-crossed) so the coupler is held off the road in the event of a separation.

Select Comfort

Definition

The leading U.S. manufacturer of adjustable firmness air mattresses and the creator of the Sleep Number bed.

Shank

Definition

Also called a hitch bar or stinger. A shank is a removable portion of the hitch system that carries the ball or adjustable ball mount, and slides into the receiver.

Sight Rite

Definition

The Coachmen exclusive Sight Rite™ Dash was designed with a 20 degree incline for increased visibility and reduced front blind spot.

Spring Bar

Definition

Component parts of a weight-distributing hitch system. The spring bars are installed and tensioned in such a manner as to distribute a portion of the trailer's hitch weight to the front axle of the tow vehicle and to the axles of the trailer.

Stinger

Definition

Also called a hitch bar or shank. A stinger is a removable portion of the hitch system that carries the ball or adjustable ball mount, and slides into the receiver.

Store Rite

Definition

Coachmen's exclusive Store Rite™ baggage compartments are a seamless one-piece roto-cast structure that provides a secure place for your gear.

Stow-N-Go

Definition

A Coachmen exclusive, Stow-N-Go bunk storage has a lower bunk that flips up to provide a huge exterior storage bay for your camping gea

SureLine

Definition

Coachmen's exclusive SureLine™ custom wiring harness provides color coded wires grouped together in a protective autoloom covering. Specific wiring schematics make for easy serviceability

Sway

Definition

Refers to the "fish-tailing" action of a trailer caused by external forces that set the trailer's mass into a lateral (side-to-side) motion. The trailer's wheels serve as the axis or pivot point. Also known as "yaw".

Sway Control

Definition

Devices designed to damp the swaying (fish-tailing) action of a trailer, either through a friction system or a "cam action" system that slows and absorbs the pivotal articulating action between tow vehicle and trailer. The most common device in use is a "sway bar".

Tail Swing

Definition

All motorhomes built on chassis with short wheelbases and long overhangs behind the rear axle are susceptible to "tail swing" when turning sharply. As the motorhome moves in reverse or turns a corner, its extreme rear can move horizontally and strike objects nearby (typically road signs and walls). Drivers need to be aware of the amount of "tail swing" in order to prevent accidents.

Thermopane

Definition

Two or more sheets of glass set apart from one another with a vacuumed space between to prevent condensation and reduce heat loss.

TorqShift

Definition

a 5-speed automatic transmission designed by Ford to be used with diesel engines producing 650 ft.lbs. of torque. It is not your typical "light truck" transmission. Also found in all F-250, F-350, F-450, F-550, Expedition, and E-Series.

Tow / Haul

Definition

LPG or liquefied petroleum gas. Used in RVs for heating, cooking and refrigeration.

Tow Rating

Definition

The manufacturer's rating of the maximum weight limit that can safely be towed by a particular vehicle. Tow ratings are related to overall trailer weight, not trailer size, in most cases. However, some tow ratings impose limits as to frontal area of the trailer and overall length. Tow ratings are determined by the vehicle manufacturer according to several criteria, including engine size, transmission, axle ratio, brakes, chassis, cooling systems and other special equipment.

Towbar

Definition

A device used for connecting a dinghy vehicle to the motorhome when it's towed with all four wheels on the ground.

Toy Hauler

Definition

An RV with a garage for carrying motorized fun machines such as ATVs, motorcycles, snowmobiles, jet skis, dune buggies or other toys. Toy haulers can be motorized or towable.

TPO

Definition

Thermoplastic Polyolefin

Trailer Breaks

Definition

Brakes that are built into the trailer axle systems and are activated either by electric impulse or by a surge mechanism. The overwhelming majority of RVs utilize electric trailer brakes that are actuated when the tow vehicle's brakes are operated, or when a brake controller is manually activated. Surge brakes utilize a mechanism positioned at the coupler that detects when the tow vehicle is slowing or stopping and activates the trailer brakes via a hydraulic system.

transmission cooler

Definition

A heat exchanger similar to a small radiator through which automatic transmission fluid passes and is cooled by airflow.

Travel Trailer

Definition

Designed to be towed by a car, van or pickup by means of a bumper or frame hitch, the travel trailer provides all the comforts of home and is perfectly adaptable for weekend getaways, family vacations, and fulltiming.

Triton

Definition

a type of Ford engine. In a Class A, 6.8L 3-valve, V10, 362hp. In a Class C, 6.8L 2-valve V10, 305hp.

Truck Camper

Definition

A unit loaded onto, or affixed to, the bed or chassis of a pickup, the truck camper is popular for backroad journeys, accessing remote locales and family recreational camping.

Turn-Rite

Definition

A cap that is notched on both sides, allowing up to a 90-degree turning radius even with shorter bed pickups. A cap-mounted mirror gives the driver a solid view of the hitch from inside the truck for a more confident hookup.

TW

Definition

Hitch Weight or Tongue Weight (TW) is the amount of weight pressing down on the vehicle’s hitch or 5th wheel connection when the trailer is fully loaded for travel. Tongue weight for a travel trailer can be 10-15 percent of overall weight; fifth-wheel hitch weight is usually 18-20 percent of the overall weight.

Underbelly

Definition

Hitch Weight or Tongue Weight (TW) is the amount of weight pressing down on the vehicle’s hitch or 5th wheel connection when the trailer is fully loaded for travel. Tongue weight for a travel trailer can be 10-15 percent of overall weight; fifth-wheel hitch weight is usually 18-20 percent of the overall weight.

UVW

Definition

The Unloaded Vehicle Weight (UVW) or Dry Weight is the actual weight of the trailer or truck as built at the factory. The UVW does not include passengers, cargo, fresh water, LP gas, or after market accessories.

VIN

Definition

Vehicle Identification Number.

Waste Water

Definition

Also known as black water. Disposal water from toilet system, held in holding tank until you dump it, in large tanks or dumping station available at most campgrounds.

Water Works

Definition

Coachmen's exclusive Water Works™ Utility Panel simply displays how to perform key water functions, such as filling, draining and winterizing.

Weight Distributing Hitch

Definition

Also known as an "equalizing" hitch, this category includes hitch systems that utilize spring bars that can be placed under tension to distribute a portion of the trailer's hitch weight to the tow vehicle's front axle and the trailer's axles.

Wheelbase

Definition

The distance between the center lines of the primary axles of a vehicle. If a motorhome includes a "tag" axle, the distance is measured from the front axle to the center point between the drive and "tag" axle.