Comprehensive Guide To Operating All Systems In A 1997 Rexhall Aerbus
Mastering the 1997 Rexhall Aerbus requires a systematic approach to the integrated 12V DC and 120V AC electrical grids, the LP gas distribution system, and the pressurized water plumbing. This guide serves as a technical manual for managing onboard utilities, ensuring safe operation of the furnace, refrigerator, water heater, and power conversion systems for veteran and novice owners alike.
Essential Pre-Operation Systems Checklist and Technical Preparation
Operating a vintage Class A motorhome like the 1997 Rexhall Aerbus demands a structured approach to prevent system damage. Before arriving at any destination, you must verify the integrity of the coach's core utilities. Missing a step in the transition from storage to active operation can lead to scorched heating elements, frozen plumbing, or depleted house batteries.
- Essential Tools and Supplies: Digital multimeter (rated for 600V), spare 30-amp glass fuses, non-contact voltage tester, LPG leak detection fluid, and a potable water hose with an inline pressure regulator set to 40 PSI.
- Mandatory Prerequisites: Familiarity with the location of the battery disconnect switch (typically near the entry door) and the identification of the 120V AC breaker panel and 12V DC fuse block.
- Safety Standards: Ensure the LPG detector is functional and has not reached its expiration date; never attempt to light manual pilots in confined spaces without checking for gas odors first.
- Estimated Setup Duration: 45 minutes for a full system cold-start and leak verification.
Procedural Workflow for Managing Onboard Utility Systems
Step 1: Establishing Electrical Power and Battery Management
Begin by activating the house battery disconnect switch. Connect the coach to a 30-amp shore power source using a surge-protected cable. Once plugged in, verify the operation of the converter by checking for a steady 13.6V DC output on your multimeter at the battery terminals. If the converter is not outputting, check the 120V circuit breaker marked Converter or General. Ensure all heavy loads, such as the air conditioner or microwave, are switched off before engaging shore power to prevent an initial surge trip.
Pro-Tip: Always verify that your battery isolator relay is engaging; if the coach starts from the house batteries, the relay may be stuck, requiring a manual tap or replacement of the solenoid.
Step 2: Pressurizing the Water System and Water Heater
Before turning on the water heater, you must purge air from the lines. Connect your city water hose to the intake port, ensuring you have used a pressure regulator to prevent internal line bursts. Open all cold and hot faucets one by one until the flow is steady and free of sputtering. Only after the hot water tank is completely filled—verify this by opening the relief valve until water spurts out—should you activate the water heater switch. Turning the heater on while the tank is empty will instantly burn out the electric element.
Warning: Never operate the water heater on electric mode if the tank is empty. If you are using LP mode, ensure the flame ignites by listening for the clicking of the igniter and checking the exterior vent for warm air exhaust.
Step 3: Managing the LPG Distribution and Appliance Ignition
The 1997 Rexhall utilizes a manual-turn valve on the LP tank. Open this valve slowly to prevent the safety excess-flow check valve from tripping. Once open, light a stove burner to draw gas through the lines and purge remaining air. Once the stove burns with a steady blue flame, you may proceed to ignite the refrigerator and furnace. The refrigerator should be set to Auto mode, which allows it to prioritize 120V AC over LP gas.
Step 4: Operating the Climate Control and Ventilation Systems
The furnace is a high-draw 12V appliance. Set your thermostat to the desired temperature and listen for the fan to initiate its 30-second purge cycle before the igniter engages. If the fan blows but the heat does not kick on, the sail switch is likely blocked by lint or debris. For cooling, the roof-mounted air conditioning units require the generator or 30-amp shore power. Ensure the ceiling return filters are clean; restricted airflow in these 1997-era units frequently leads to evaporator icing.
1997 Rexhall Aerbus 340GT - National Vehicle
Technical Specifications and Utility Thresholds
The following table outlines the operational parameters and standard maintenance intervals required to keep the 1997 Rexhall Aerbus systems within manufacturer specifications.
| System Component | Operational Voltage/Pressure | Maintenance Interval | Failure Indicator |
|---|---|---|---|
| Water Pump | 12V DC / 30-40 PSI | Seasonal | Constant cycling (leak) |
| Water Heater | 120V AC or LP Gas | Annual anode check | No hot water / pop-off hiss |
| Refrigerator | 120V AC or LP / 12V | Monthly | Flashing Check Light |
| Furnace | 12V DC / 11" Water Column | Biannual cleaning | Fan runs, no heat |
| Battery Bank | 12.6V Full / 12.0V 50% | Monthly check | Dim lights / slow pump |
Troubleshooting Common Utility Failures
- Refrigerator "Check" Light Flashing: This indicates a failure to achieve ignition on LP gas or an absence of shore power. Root Cause: Air in the propane lines or a blown 12V DC fuse at the refrigerator control board. Fix: Bleed the lines via the stove and check the 3-amp fuse inside the exterior service panel.
- Water Pump Runs Continuously: Root Cause: An internal leak in the plumbing or the pump’s check valve is stuck open, allowing pressure to bleed back into the tank. Fix: Inspect all PEX fittings for drips and clean the pump intake screen; replace the internal diaphragm if the pump fails to hold pressure.
- Furnace Fan Operates But No Heat: Root Cause: The sail switch is failing to sense airflow due to dust or debris buildup. Fix: Remove the exterior furnace service panel, locate the sail switch, and use compressed air to clear the debris from the switch lever.
- Lights Dim When Water Pump Engages: Root Cause: High resistance in the battery connections or a low state of charge. Fix: Clean the battery terminals with a wire brush and verify the ground wire connection at the frame.
Frequently Asked Questions
How do I switch the refrigerator from electric to gas?
The 1997 Rexhall Aerbus refrigerator typically features an "Auto" switch. When set to Auto, the control board senses the presence of 120V AC shore power; if you disconnect shore power, it automatically switches to LP gas mode.
What is the maximum water pressure I should use?
Never exceed 40 PSI in the water lines of a 1997 model. High-pressure parks can easily cause pinhole leaks in older plastic fittings, so an external regulator is mandatory at the spigot.
How often should I check the propane system for leaks?
You should conduct a soap-and-water leak test on all accessible fittings every time you refill your propane tank or when you take the coach out of long-term storage. Bubbles indicate a leak that requires immediate tightening or replacement of the flared connection.
Can I run the air conditioner while driving?
No, the roof-mounted air conditioners require 120V AC power. You must either be connected to shore power or have the onboard generator running to operate the A/C units safely while stationary.
Optimize Your Rexhall Maintenance Routine
Regular inspection of your 1997 Rexhall Aerbus systems preserves the longevity of these legacy components and ensures reliable travel. Contact our technical support team for assistance with locating specific replacement parts for your chassis and utility systems.
