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Futura FHD2 - Automotive VDL - Free user manual and instructions

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USER MANUAL Futura FHD2 VDL

These driver instructions contain information regarding the use of the vehicle. Pay particular attention to the safety regulations and the text concerning operation and maintenance before driving the vehicle for the first time. Make sure this instruction manual is always kept in the vehicle.

This instruction manual contains a number of groups. Each group is marked by a number in the margin (for example, 0) and starts with a table of contents.

The text may contain references to other pages, such as Instrument panel (37). The number after the book icon indicates the page which contains the information.

There is an index at the end of the book for quick reference.

Please ensure that you are fully familiar with the instructions provided in this documentation, as correct operation of the vehicle, together with regular preventative and scheduled maintenance, is decisive for the vehicle's resale value.

Furthermore, in many cases, this is a condition for a warranty claim.

Vehicle type:

Type ^a

Date of first use ....

VIN code ^b

Other information ....

Registration ....

a. On the identification plate fitted at the front entrance bay.

b. On the identification plate. The last eight digits form the chassis number (e.g. XMGDE02CS0H123456).

VDL Futura FHD2 - Vehicle type: - 1

CONTENT

1 INTRODUCTION....1

2 OPERATION AND USE....17

3 SAFETY PRECAUTIONS AND EMERGENCY PROCEDURES .....71

4 MAINTENANCE....81

5 REPAIRS WHILST ON THE ROAD ....103

6 IDENTIFICATION ....127

7 TECHNICAL INFORMATION ....137

VDL Futura FHD2 - CONTENT - 1

Disclaimer

© 1113 VDL Bus & Coach bv, Valkenswaard, The Netherlands.

In the interest of continuous product development, VDL Bus & Coach maintains the right to make changes to specifications or products at all times without prior notification.

No part of this publication may be copied and/or published by means of printing, photocopying, digitization or any other means whatsoever without prior written permission from VDL Bus & Coach.

This handbook must be interpreted and used in accordance with Dutch law. Any dispute will be placed before the court in 's-Hertogenbosch, the Netherlands.

VDL Futura FHD2 - Disclaimer - 1

Introduction

1 INTRODUCTION

INTRODUCTION.... 3

WARNING SYMBOLS 4

SAFETY INSTRUCTIONS .... 4

WARRANTY CONDITIONS......8

ENVIRONMENT......9

GENERAL TIPS....9

BATTERIES.... 14

AIR CONDITIONING SYSTEM.... 16

Introduction

Introduction

INTRODUCTION

Congratulations on purchasing your Futura FHD2.

You've made a good choice.

The Futura FHD2 has outstanding driving characteristics, excellent performance and operational reliability, low fuel consumption and an emphasis on safety and comfort.

Reliability, a long lifespan, safety and a comfortable ride are the characteristics of VDL Bus & Coach products.

Read this manual carefully before driving the vehicle for the first time to allow yourself to make the most of these characteristics and to fulfil your expectations.

A thorough knowledge of the maintenance instructions will increase driver satisfaction and will above all have a favourable influence on the durability of the vehicle. The capabilities of the vehicle can be fully exploited

Purpose

The aim of this manual is to familiarise the driver or user with the vehicle. VDL Bus & Coach wishes to pass on as much information as possible about the use, operation, safety and maintenance of the vehicle.

This instruction manual includes information about standard and optional features.

Alternative equipment, for example manual or automatic transmission, is discussed.

This means that you may skip certain sections in the manual which deal with equipment not fitted to your vehicle.

Layout

The layout of the manual is designed to be practical and to provide a clear overview.

There are 7 chapters in the manual.

Each chapter is numbered and is easy to locate using the dark markings in the margins.

Each chapter begins with a detailed contents section, which will help you find your way around the relevant chapter.

VDL Futura FHD2 - Layout - 1

An index at the end of the manual will allow you to quickly locate topics.

VDL Futura FHD2 - Layout - 2

Make sure this manual is always kept in the vehicle and read it carefully before driving the vehicle for the first time.

VDL Futura FHD2 - Layout - 3

Introduction

1

WARNING SYMBOLS

The instruction manual includes the following symbols.

Take note of the tip or warning accompanying the symbol!

VDL Futura FHD2 - WARNING SYMBOLS - 1

This symbol gives useful tips to simplify the work.

VDL Futura FHD2 - WARNING SYMBOLS - 2

This symbol indicates a situation which requires extra attention.

VDL Futura FHD2 - WARNING SYMBOLS - 3

This symbol indicates a situation which might result in damage to the vehicle.

VDL Futura FHD2 - WARNING SYMBOLS - 4

This symbol indicates a situation which might result in personal injury.

VDL Futura FHD2 - WARNING SYMBOLS - 5

This symbol indicates a situation which might result in damage to the environment.

SAFETY INSTRUCTIONS

The following safety instructions must be strictly observed in order to prevent endangering your own health and safety, as well as that of others.

See also Safety precautions and emergency procedures (71)

Warnings and safety instructions

Always read the instructions and warnings on labels and stickers.

Do not ignore them. They are there to ensure your health and safety!

ENGINE

Do not allow the engine to run in a confined or unventilated space.

Engine compartment

Keep away from moving parts.

Coolant reservoir filler cap

Do not remove the coolant reservoir's filler cap whilst the engine is at the operating temperature. Release the pressure first by slowly removing the filler cap.

Warning triangle

Always have a warning triangle in the vehicle (it is a legal requirement in some

countries) and possibly some other means of marking.

Safety vest

When carrying out emergency repairs, always wear a safety vest (it is a legal requirement in some countries) and, if necessary, also use other means of marking.

Fire extinguisher

Ensure that you are always in the possession of a fire extinguisher (it is a legal requirement in some countries). Its location is marked by

VDL Futura FHD2 - Fire extinguisher - 1

a sticker in the vehicle's interior (see Fire extinguisher (77)).

In the event of a fire: Certain plastic seals can, in the event of a fire, form gases which together with water form a corrosive acid. Therefore, do not touch any fire extinguisher fluid on the vehicle without wearing protective gloves.

VDL Futura FHD2 - Fire extinguisher - 2

Introduction

First-aid kit

Ensure that you are always in possession of a first aid kit (it is a legal requirement in some countries), see: First-aid kit (☐ 78).

Winter conditions

Whenever severe winter conditions are expected, make sure to fit winter tyres and snow-chains. See also Wheels and tyres (110 139).

Luggage

All luggage must be stowed so that it cannot shift or fly loose, even in an emergency stop. Bear in mind that the driving characteristics of a fully loaded vehicle differ from those of an empty vehicle.

Fluids and greases

Certain fluids and lubricants may be harmful to your health if they come into contact with your skin, are ingested or are inhaled. Therefore, avoid physical contact where possible.

Spilled fluids may react aggressively with other materials, so clear them up as quickly as possible.

To prevent risk of fire the engine and its surroundings must be kept free of (highly) flammable materials.

Welding

Read the workshop instructions before carrying out welding work on the vehicle and/or the bodywork.

VDL Futura FHD2 - Welding - 1

Not observing these instructions may result in damage to the vehicle's electronics.

Batteries

VDL Futura FHD2 - Batteries - 1

Never disconnect the battery terminal clamps whilst the engine is running!

Always disconnect the battery's earth cable when working on the electrical system.

Never place tools on the battery. It may cause a short circuit or even cause the battery to explode.

VDL Futura FHD2 - Batteries - 2

See Tachograph (42) for instructions on how to disconnect the battery cables.

Charging the batteries

When charging the batteries, make sure there is good ventilation and avoid sparks and a naked flame.

VDL Futura FHD2 - Charging the batteries - 1

Allow frozen batteries to thaw and remove all the filler caps before charging.

First connect the battery charger's positive clamp (+) to the battery's positive terminal (+) and then the negative clamp (-) to the negative terminal (-).

When the batteries have been charged, turn off the battery charger and then disconnect the negative clamp (-) first followed by the positive (+) clamp.

The battery cables may remain connected for normal charging.

Only use a quick-charger in the event of extreme urgency.

VDL Futura FHD2 - Charging the batteries - 2

To avoid damage to the vehicle's electronics, both battery cables must be disconnected when quick-charging.

VDL Futura FHD2 - Charging the batteries - 3

Do not use a speed starter set to start the vehicle as this may damage the vehicle electronics.

VDL Futura FHD2 - Charging the batteries - 4

Introduction

1

Starting the vehicle using an auxiliary starting device

See Jump starting. (☐ 122) for instructions on how to start the vehicle using auxiliary starting devices.

System voltage

The vehicle has a 24 V electrical system. When replacing or upgrading electrical or electronic components, ensure that they are suitable for this voltage.

VDL Futura FHD2 - System voltage - 1

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Earth switch

To prevent the batteries from discharging during long term parking (more than 2 weeks), the vehicle is provided with an earth switch which, when switched off, disconnects the entire coach power supply.

Before switching off, take care that:

VDL Futura FHD2 - Before switching off, take care that: - 1

See Tachograph (42) before switching off the earth switch.

  • Stop the engine by first switching off the ignition. Then turn off the main switch.
  • Switch off the alarm.

  • Disconnect mains voltage connection (24 V connection for charging batteries via mains voltage) if applicable.

  • Switch off the earth switch after a delay of at least 90 seconds, to allow for the after-running of various electrical systems on the vehicle.

VDL Futura FHD2 - See Tachograph (42) before switching off the earth switch. - 1

Failure to meet the switching off conditions may have serious consequences for various electrical systems in the vehicle.

After switching on, adjust:

• The radio (default radio stations).
- Adjust the navigation system.
- The Clock.
- The timer of the control panel of the climate system.
- Tachograph:

If DTCO:

The tachograph keeps its adjustments and needs therefore no further adjustments.

VDL Futura FHD2 - If DTCO: - 1

Introduction

Mobile telephones and transmitters

The following precautions relate to the installation and use of mobile telephones and transmitters.

  • It is permitted to install mobile telephones and transmitters in the vehicle if this is done carefully and is approved by VDL Bus & Coach.
  • Mobile telephones and transmitters may be used in the vehicle if they have their own exterior, low-reflection aerial. This external aerial must be fitted correctly.

VDL Futura FHD2 - Mobile telephones and transmitters - 1

Using mobile telephones or transmitters without a separate external aerial may cause excessive electromagnetic fields (the resonance effect)

within the vehicle. This can lead to the vehicle's electronic equipment not working correctly, which will have a negative effect on the safety of the vehicle.

VDL Futura FHD2 - Mobile telephones and transmitters - 2

  • In addition, the optimum range of this equipment can only be achieved with the use of an external aerial.
    Always follow the operating instructions for mobile telephones and transmitters.
  • The transmitting power must not exceed the maximum permitted transmitting power. See the table given below:

Frequency range: Maximum transmitting power:

Shortwave (<50 100 W

MHz)

4 m band 20 W
2 m band 50 W
70 cm band 35 W
25 cm band 10 W

Installation of additional electrical/electronic equipment

All electric/electronic components retrofitted to VDL Bus & Coach vehicles must have type approval and the "E" marking in accordance with the ECE Guideline R10.

VDL Futura FHD2 - Installation of additional electrical/electronic equipment - 1

Interfering with the electronic system in any way may create a dangerous situation due to the system malfunctioning and will affect the warranty.

VDL Futura FHD2 - Installation of additional electrical/electronic equipment - 2

Damage or consequential damage caused as a result of the installation of equipment not approved by VDL Bus & Coach will not be covered by the VDL Bus & Coach warranty.

VDL Futura FHD2 - Installation of additional electrical/electronic equipment - 3

The vehicle's type approval may no longer be valid (.....) if the electronic or electrical devices used in the vehicle do not satisfy the stated conditions.

VDL Futura FHD2 - Installation of additional electrical/electronic equipment - 4

BUS & COACH

Introduction

1

Vehicle weights

Take care not to exceed the next weights.

• Maximum weight per axle
• Maximum vehicle weight (GVW)
• Maximum train weight (GCW)
• Maximum trailer weight

See also the vehicle identification plate.

Furthermore, conform to EU Guideline 96/53 EC, it is not permitted to drive a two-axle vehicle with a GVW > 18 tons or to drive a three-axle vehicle with a GVW > 26 tons internationally within the EU.

Retrofitted equipment

All materials retrofit to a VDL Bus & Coach vehicle which belong to the category of materials which should conform to fireproof regulations must meet EU Guideline 95/28 EC.

Original VDL Bus & Coach parts

All parts and components are carefully matched to each other, which among others determines the original VDL Bus & Coach quality.

Do not modify your vehicle with non-original VDL Bus & Coach parts.

Bear in mind that any modification to your VDL Bus & Coach vehicle with non-original parts may adversely affect its performance, safety, durability and the guarantee.

Modifications may also conflict with legal requirements.

WARRANTY CONDITIONS

Please ensure that you are fully familiar with the instructions provided in this documentation, as correct operation of the vehicle, together with regular preventive and scheduled maintenance, is decisive for the vehicle's re-sale value.

Furthermore in many cases this is a condition of the warranty provided.

The warranty conditions are mentioned in the "GENERAL SALES CONDITIONS" and in the "WARRANTY CONDITIONS".

VDL Futura FHD2 - WARRANTY CONDITIONS - 1

Introduction

ENVIRONMENT

To prevent unnecessary damage to the environment, you should observe the following guidelines:

  • Used liquids should be carefully collected and separated, and should then be handed over to an authorized site for recycling or disposal.
  • Improper disposal of liquids is a criminal offence.
  • Make sure the vehicle is regularly maintained. A properly maintained vehicle uses fuel more efficiently and emits less harmful exhaust gases.
  • Do not allow the engine to idle unnecessarily and always drive using the appropriate engine speed.

GENERAL TIPS

Take note of the following recommendations before using the vehicle:

Pre-heater

  • Do not allow the pre-heater to run in a closed or unventilated space.
  • Do not operate the pre-heater where flammable or explosive materials, gases or dusts may be present.
  • Do not operate the pre-heater over dry grass or other dry ground cover.
  • Switch pre-heater off while refuelling vehicle and before entering fuelling stations.
  • Never touch hot components of the heating system.

Refuelling

VDL Futura FHD2 - Refuelling - 1

Switch off the engine and switch off the pre-heater before filling fuel tanks.

Use only diesel which is of a suitable quality.

Make sure the filler cap and the area around it are free of dust and avoid mixing water with the fuel when refuelling.

VDL Futura FHD2 - Refuelling - 2

To prevent water condensation, do not allow the level of fuel in the tank to fall unnecessarily low.

AdBlue level

The EAS system consumes AdBlue liquid. The display on the instrument panel shows the tank contents of AdBlue liquid.

VDL Futura FHD2 - AdBlue level - 1

A yellow warning 'AdBlue level low' is shown if the tank contents have decreased to a specified minimum value. Fill up the AdBlue at the first opportunity. Insert the delivery nozzle fully into the neck of the tank so that the magnet in the neck opens.

Avoid AdBlue liquid coming into contact with painted components. Spilt AdBlue can be easily removed with water.

VDL Futura FHD2 - AdBlue level - 2

Introduction

1

AdBlue turns white when it dries. This white deposit can also be removed with water.

VDL Futura FHD2 - 1 - 1

AdBlue is not poisonous and not harmful to the environment.

The EAS system switches off when the tank contents decrease below the absolute minimum. A yellow warning 'AdBlue tank empty' is shown.

VDL Futura FHD2 - AdBlue legal minimum level - 1

This prevents the EAS unit from sucking in air.

A warning is displayed and the MIL indicator appears.

VDL Futura FHD2 - AdBlue legal minimum level - 2

If this warning is ignored, automatic engine torque reduction may be expected.

The torque limiter is activated once the vehicle has been stationary for two seconds. Once the reason for the torque restriction has been removed, the full engine torque will be available after the next time the vehicle has remained stationary.

VDL Futura FHD2 - AdBlue legal minimum level - 3

The EAS system is deactivated when the AdBlue temperature falls below -10^ C.

VDL Futura FHD2 - AdBlue legal minimum level - 4

It may be considered a criminal offence not to use AdBlue according to the vehicle's specifications in order to reduce harmful emissions. It can invalidate the favourable conditions for purchase or operation of the vehicle obtained in the country of registration or the country in which the vehicle is used.

Running in

It is recommended to avoid placing the vehicle under a too heavy load during the running-in period.

This also applies when a reconditioned engine, gearbox or differential has been fitted.

For the first 1,500 km, you should, therefore:

  • Avoid driving with a full load.
  • Change down gear in good time: a relatively high engine speed is less harmful than overloading the engine with excessively low engine speeds.
  • Do not drive with a trailer attached.

VDL Futura FHD2 - Running in - 1

Following a cold start, use a moderate engine speed and avoid heavy acceleration until the engine reaches the operating temperature.

Pay attention to the instrument panel whilst driving and respond alertly when irregularities are observed.

Wheel nuts

The wheel nuts must be retightened using a torque spanner (600 Nm ± 3%) when 100 km have been travelled following delivery of the vehicle.

VDL Futura FHD2 - Wheel nuts - 1

Introduction

Fuel economy

Driving economically does not mean driving slowly. It requires the driver to anticipate situations, to have a smooth driving style and to adapt his/her driving style to the conditions.

Keep the following in mind:

  • Warm the engine as quickly as possible by driving off as soon as possible under a moderate load.
  • Drive smoothly and avoid unnecessary acceleration and harsh braking.
  • Change gear in good time and keep the engine speed in the optimal (green) range.

The most significant factor in fuel consumption is the driver himself and how he uses the accelerator pedal, the brake pedal and the gear lever.

Starting procedure

VDL Futura FHD2 - Starting procedure - 1

The engine cannot be started with the bonnet open.

Turn on via the main switch.

Depress the clutch pedal (not applicable to vehicles with automatic gearbox) and select neutral gear.

VDL Futura FHD2 - Starting procedure - 2

The engine cannot be started when the gearbox is not in neutral.

VDL Futura FHD2 - Starting procedure - 3

The following only applies to vehicles with an AS Tronic gearbox.

If the accelerator pedal is depressed when starting the engine, "FP" will be displayed on the dashboard and the vehicle will not select a gear.

Switch on the ignition.

VDL Futura FHD2 - Switch on the ignition. - 1

After the engine has started, the engine speed should not be increased until the oil pressure warning light has gone out.

Clutch

Wear on the clutch depends to a great extent on the driver.

To reduce clutch wear to a minimum, follow these guidelines:

  • On moving off, always select first gear and where possible a low engine speed.
  • On accelerating after a gear change, give gas only after the clutch is fully engaged.
  • Avoid riding the clutch.
  • Avoid unnecessary acceleration in traffic queues.
  • Use the brakes to stop.

Braking

The vehicle is equipped with an EBS (Electronic Braking System) system.

Some important control functions within the EBS system are:

  • Braking deceleration control
  • Wheel slip control between the front and rear axles for the purpose of braking force equalisation
  • Braking equalisation control between prime mover and drawn vehicle
    • ABS (Anti Block System) control
    • ASR (Anti Skid Reduction) control

VDL Futura FHD2 - Braking - 1

Introduction

1

When the brakes are applied whilst driving, the electronic unit will measure various signals. This results in average readings for: deceleration, brake pressure, wheel slip, etc. These readings will be stored in the electronic unit. The stored readings will be adjusted as necessary. In other words, the electronic unit 'learns' from the inputs.

The stored readings serve as a starting point for the deceleration and brake force distribution.

VDL Futura FHD2 - 1 - 1

This system provides more safety, but it may not be a motive to take unnecessary risks whilst driving.

VDL Futura FHD2 - 1 - 2

Do not adapt your driving and braking style to the EBS system.

In particular, do not brake later or harder. This will cause the tyres to wear more quickly and will put other road users at risk.

VDL Futura FHD2 - 1 - 3

Braking distances with EBS are sometimes, but not always, shorter.

Retarder integration

Retarder integration is automatically available in the EBS system. The EBS system can also use braking torque support from the retarder. This has a positive effect on the service life of the brake linings

Retarder integration can be switched off, see: Vehicle functions (11 59).

VDL Futura FHD2 - Retarder integration - 1

ESC (Electronic Stability Control)

VDL Futura FHD2 - ESC (Electronic Stability Control) - 1

A vehicle equipped with ESC may unexpectedly brake hard in certain situations. Therefore, always wear a seat belt.

The ESC system (Electronic Stability Control) is a system comprising lateral and vertical stability control. If a critical situation arises when taking turns, for example when the vehicle is slipping or threatens to turn over, ESC intervenes by

reducing the engine torque and activating the braking system.

VDL Futura FHD2 - ESC (Electronic Stability Control) - 2

ESC is not a guarantee against instability. It helps the driver in unexpected, difficult situations, but there are physical limitations.

Stopping

Bring the vehicle to a halt.

Select neutral gear.

Allow the clutch pedal to rise (not applicable to vehicles with automatic gearbox).

VDL Futura FHD2 - Stopping - 1

Introduction

Parking

VDL Futura FHD2 - Parking - 1

Exhaust system

The vehicle is equipped with a catalytic converter. The catalytic converter/exhaust system becomes very hot whilst driving. Do not park the vehicle or idle the engine over an easily inflammable surface, such as dry leaves or dry grass. This is a potential fire hazard.

Stop the vehicle.

Apply the parking brake by means of the brake lever.

When parking on an incline, the following should be considered:

- Place chocks in front of or behind the wheels of the rigid axle.

- Turn the front wheels so that the vehicle will not head out into the road if it should move for some reason.

Switch off the contact switch and the main switch.

Switching off the engine

VDL Futura FHD2 - Switching off the engine - 1

After a long journey or when it has been put under heavy load, allow the engine to idle while stationary for a while before switching off.

Park the vehicle.

Stop the engine by first switching off the ignition.

Then turn off the main switch.

VDL Futura FHD2 - Switching off the engine - 2

Turning off the ignition will activate the delay setting of the EAS system (exhaust gas after-treatment system). This may be audible on the outside of the vehicle (a gurgling noise in the region of the AdBlue tank).

Air leak

A rapidly falling air pressure reading whilst the engine is idling indicates an air leak.

The leak must be repaired without delay as the safety of the braking system is impaired.

VDL Futura FHD2 - Air leak - 1

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Engine stop button in the engine compartment

The engine can if necessary be stopped using the button in the engine compartment.

VDL Futura FHD2 - Engine stop button in the engine compartment - 1

In the British version, the stop button is accessible via the right-hand rear hatch.

VDL Futura FHD2 - Engine stop button in the engine compartment - 2

Remember to reset the stop button before closing the engine compartment.

Speed limiter

The speed limiter on your vehicle is set at 100km/h.

VDL Futura FHD2 - Speed limiter - 1

Introduction

BATTERIES

General information

  • The more often a battery is discharged, the shorter its lifespan will become.
  • The lifespan of the batteries is determined by various factors, including the driving conditions and the climate. Through time, the batteries will lose starting capacity and must, therefore, be recharged if the vehicle is not driven or only driven for short distances for a longer period of time. The starting capacity is also reduced as a result of freezing weather conditions.
  • To ensure the maximum lifespan, the batteries must always remain fully charged.
  • If the vehicle is mainly used for short journeys or is not used for a longer period of time, then the charging condition of the batteries must be checked regularly or the batteries must be kept constantly charged with a trickle charger.
  • Preferably change all the batteries at the same time.

- When changing the batteries, only replace them with batteries recommended by VDL Bus & Coach.

Charging the battery

VDL Futura FHD2 - Charging the battery - 1

Explosive oxyhydrogen is produced when recharging the batteries. Therefore, always ensure there is suitable ventilation when charging batteries.

  • Avoid sparks and naked flames near batteries.
  • Battery acid is an aggressive fluid.
    In the event of inhalation: get some fresh air, take a rest and contact a doctor.
    In the event of skin contact: neutralize the skin immediately with sodium carbonate or soapsuds and plenty of water. Contact a doctor if the affected area remains red or painful. Remove affected clothing, neutralize with sodium carbonate or soapsuds and rinse with plenty of water.
    In the event of contact with the eyes: wash with clean, flowing water for at least 15 minutes and contact a doctor.

If swallowed: DO NOT induce vomiting. Rinse your mouth, drink plenty of water and contact a doctor.

• Always wear protective clothing, in particular, gloves and safety glasses, when working on the batteries.
- Keep children a safe distance from the batteries.
- When charging the batteries, make sure there is good ventilation and avoid sparks and a naked flame.
- Allow frozen batteries to thaw and remove all the filler caps before charging.
- Never disconnect the batteries whilst the engine is running.
- Regularly check whether the battery cables have been connected correctly and whether they are firmly attached to the battery.
- Always disconnect the battery's earth cable when working on the electrical system.

Introduction

Environment

VDL Futura FHD2 - Environment - 1

Batteries contain harmful substances. It is legally prohibited to dispose of batteries with the household waste. Batteries must be collected separately and disposed of in a way which is not harmful to the environment.

- Always transport and store full batteries horizontally. Make sure the batteries cannot tip over during transport. Battery acid may then escape into the environment via the bleed openings or the filler caps.

Personal safety

VDL Futura FHD2 - Personal safety - 1

To avoid injury, the following safety measures must always be observed when working on the batteries.

  • Do not bend over the batteries.
  • Never place tools on a battery. It may cause a short circuit or may even cause the battery to explode. Only use insulated tools.

  • Pay attention to make sure you do not receive an electrostatic charge. Do not wear synthetic (nylon) clothes and do not rub fabric. For the same reason, do not slide or push batteries over a carpet or other synthetic material.

  • Do not immediately touch a battery. To reduce the possibility of an electrostatic discharge, first stand outside of the vehicle and touch the bodywork (metal object).
  • Do not rub cloths or rags over a battery. The battery may explode as a result of an electrostatic charge or through the creation of a spark.

Taking care of the batteries

VDL Futura FHD2 - Taking care of the batteries - 1

To avoid freezing when the vehicle is not used for a longer period of time in extremely cold conditions, the batteries must be removed and stored in a location which is frost free.

- To avoid freezing when the vehicle is not used for a longer period of time in extremely cold conditions, the batteries must be removed and stored in a location which is frost free.

  • Turn off the contact switch and the main switch before disconnecting the battery terminal clamps. If this is not done, electrical components (such as the generator) may be damaged.
  • Wait at least 5 minutes after turning off the contact switch and the main switch before disconnecting the connection between the battery terminal clamp and the negative terminal.
  • VDL Bus & Coach recommends that you do not carry out work such as charging or removing the batteries yourself. Preferably have this work carried out by a recognized workshop, such as a VDL Bus & Coach Service workshop.

VDL Futura FHD2 - Taking care of the batteries - 2

Introduction

1

AIR CONDITIONING SYSTEM

The Pressure Equipment Directive 97/23 EC came into force on 29th May 2002. Also, European regulation no. 842/2006 regarding certain fluorinated greenhouse gases came into force on 4th July 2006 and many of the requirements came into force on 4th July 2007. The objective of this legislation is, amongst other things, to drastically reduce coolant emissions from cooling installations.

This is achieved by applying the following measures:

  • The use of CFCs in new installations is forbidden.
  • Technical requirements are placed on cooling installations.
    • Work on cooling installations may only be carried out by qualified personnel.

The responsibilities of the owner/operator of the installation are being increased. Implementation is by means of a logbook and maintenance obligation.

VDL Futura FHD2 - AIR CONDITIONING SYSTEM - 1

Always observe the local legal regulations!

VDL Futura FHD2 - AIR CONDITIONING SYSTEM - 2

Regularly turn on the air conditioning system (at least once a month), even if no cooling is required, to prevent the compressor from leaking.

VDL Futura FHD2 - AIR CONDITIONING SYSTEM - 3

Operation and use

2 OPERATION AND USE

DOORS/HATCHES....19

CONTROLS AND INSTRUMENTS.... 23

MESSAGES ON THE DISPLAY.... 50

DISPLAY....54

PASSENGER COMPARTMENT....62

DRIVER'S SLEEPING COMPARTMENT.... 65

TOILET....66

KITCHEN....67

NAVIGATION SYSTEM....67

PNEUMATIC SUSPENSION (ECAS).... 67

STEERING MECHANISM....68

MIRRORS....69

INSTRUCTIONS FOR DRIVING WITH A TRAILING AXLE..... 70

Operation and use

Operation and use

DOORS/HATCHES

Passenger door/Central door

By turning the key, the handle (1) can be locked/unlocked. By turning the handle, the door is locked/unlocked

The door is opened/closed with push button (2).

A contact strip on the edge of the door prevents trapping when the door closes.

When the door is closed and the vehicle speed is above 5 km/h, the door can not be opened.

When the door is open and the vehicle speed is above 5 km/h, it will still be possible to close the door (see Priority 3(☐ 53)).

VDL Futura FHD2 - Passenger door/Central door - 1

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Connecting the vehicle to an external air supply

If the pneumatic system has been blown off and you wish to connect the vehicle to an external air supply, then the following must be taken into consideration:

  • Open both doors.
  • Pressurize the pneumatic system.
  • Use the control switches to close and open the doors.

VDL Futura FHD2 - Connecting the vehicle to an external air supply - 1

To avoid the door system from malfunctioning, it is necessary to follow the described procedure.

VDL Futura FHD2 - Connecting the vehicle to an external air supply - 2

natural_image Diagram of a car's front and rear dashboard with directional arrows indicating movement or force (no text or symbols)

ILHa0001

Engine cover

VDL Futura FHD2 - Engine cover - 1

Avoid contact with hot or moving parts when the bonnet is open.

The bonnet is opened by undoing the lock with the key and pulling at the same time on the bonnet. The bonnet hinges upwards with the aid of 2 gas springs. When the bonnet is raised the left-hand gas spring is mechanically locked.

VDL Futura FHD2 - Engine cover - 2

Release the lock before closing the bonnet.

VDL Futura FHD2 - Engine cover - 3

Operation and use

The lock is released by pushing the spacer cover against the spring, allowing the bonnet to be closed.

VDL Futura FHD2 - Operation and use - 1

natural_image Diagram of a car interior with an inset showing a vehicle component labeled ILHa0003 (no text or symbols on the diagram itself)

If the key breaks off in the lock the bonnet can also be opened by pushing up the red lever.

VDL Futura FHD2 - Operation and use - 2

The bonnet can only be opened with this lever when the broken key is still in the lock.

VDL Futura FHD2 - Operation and use - 3

natural_image Diagram of a door with a monitor and scroll, showing an arrow pointing to the door (no text or symbols on the diagram itself)

Luggage hatches / Driver's sleeping compartment hatch

The luggage compartments and the driver's sleeping compartment can be unlocked using the switches on the dashboard. If there is no air pressure available, the compartments can only be opened with a key (see Luggage hatch emergency operation (11 76)).

VDL Futura FHD2 - Operation and use - 4

When using a key to open a hatch, the central locking system will no longer function. To reactivate the central locking system, the hatch must first be locked with the key.

Operation and use

Closing the luggage hatches

Always close flaps by means of the hand grip.

Engine compartment side flap.

The engine compartment side flap may be unlocked with a key and the flap can then be opened.

VDL Futura FHD2 - Engine compartment side flap. - 1

text_image Technical diagram of a mechanical component with numbered parts labeled 1, 2, and 3

ILHa0002

Fuel lid

The fuel lid can be unlocked with a key. The lid can then be opened to give access to the AdBlue tank (1) and the diesel tank (2).

Glove compartment

VDL Futura FHD2 - Glove compartment - 1

Gloves which may be worn when filling fuel tanks can be stored in the glove compartment (3).

Filling

By pressing on the diesel fuel tank cap (2), e.g. with the filling pistol, the fuel tank cap will open.

Having refuelled diesel, also fill up the AdBlue tank with AdBlue liquid.

VDL Futura FHD2 - Filling - 1

Switch off the engine and switch off the pre-heater before filling fuel tanks.

VDL Futura FHD2 - Filling - 2

Operation and use

VDL Futura FHD2 - Operation and use - 1

text_image 22 21 20 19 9 18 17 7 13 14 12 24 10 16 18 6 5 4 3 2 1 23 11 25 26 27 28

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Operation and use

CONTROLS AND INSTRUMENTS

1. Driver's storage compartment 23
2. 12 Volt and 24 Volt connections 23
3. Mirror adjustment 23
4. Contact switch 24
5. Parking brake 24
6. Climate system controls 27
7. Left-hand combination switch 29
8. Right-hand dashboard switches 30
9. Engine brake 33
10.Driver's seat34
11. Clutch pedal34
12. Instrument panel37
13. Steering wheel adjustments38
14. Brake pedal38
15.Right-hand combination switch39
16. Spare wheel compartment handle41
17. Ventilation grilles41
18.Audio41
19. Tachograph42
20. Cup holders42
21. Central dashboard switches43
22.Navigation system45
23. Refrigerator45
24. Accelerator pedal 45
25. Gear shifting46
26. Central storage compartment 49
27. Storage compartment behind the selector lever49
28.Hostess seat50

1. Driver's storage compartment

The upper section is lockable.

The lower section contains the hazard warning triangle, a safety vest and a flash light.

Intercom installation

The microphone for communication with the driver's sleeping compartment is located behind the driver's seat.

For operation of the communication handset see: Intercom installation (☐ 65).

2. 12 Volt and 24 Volt connections

There is a 12 Volt connection and a 24 Volt connection under the driver's storage compartment hatch, which are intended for accessories.

The 24 Volt plug also serves as a power supply for the inspection lamp.

The inspection lamp can only be used here if its adaptor plug is fitted, see: Plug (11) 107

VDL Futura FHD2 - 12 Volt and 24 Volt connections - 1

An electrical consumer of up to 150W may be connected to this holder.

VDL Futura FHD2 - 12 Volt and 24 Volt connections - 2

Before connecting an accessory, check which voltage the accessory is suitable for.

3. Mirror adjustment

The mirrors are adjustable electrically, provided the main switch and ignition are switched on, by moving the knob up, down, left or right.

VDL Futura FHD2 - Mirror adjustment - 1

Turning knob to the right operates right mirror.

Turning knob to the left operates left mirror.

VDL Futura FHD2 - Mirror adjustment - 2

Operation and use

VDL Futura FHD2 - Operation and use - 1

natural_image Circular dial indicator with pointer symbol, no text or numbers present

ILHh0025

4. Contact switch

The ignition switch has four positions which, once the main switch is engaged, can be used as follows:

0: Neutral position

The key can be removed. All electric consumers which may be needed during a journey are now switched off.

I: Position 1

The key cannot be removed. All electric consumers which may be needed during a journey are now switched on.

All instrument indicator lamps are illuminated for 3 seconds for control purposes, and then only those that are active remain illuminated The fuel gauge and coolant temperature indicators go to maximum and then return to show the current reading. Switching to position 1 while the main menu is displayed switches to the driving menu.

II: II: Not used.

III: Starting

Operates the starter motor. The key must be turned further to the right against the spring pressure.

VDL Futura FHD2 - Contact switch - 1

The engine cannot be started if the engine compartment door is open.

5. Parking brake

The parking brake operates only on the rear axle and is operated by moving the lever to the rear.

When the parking brake is applied a lamp is illuminated on the instrument panel.

VDL Futura FHD2 - Parking brake - 1

The parking brake is released by moving the lever forwards.

Where air pressure is insufficient the ECAS symbol on the display will be illuminated and the parking brake will not release.

It is necessary to wait for the compressor to charge up the air supply before driving away see: Information menu (☐ 58).

If the foot brake is inoperable due to a fault the parking brake may also function as an emergency brake. The vehicle may be brought to a controlled stop by gradually raising the parking brake lever until it reaches its stop.

VDL Futura FHD2 - Parking brake - 2

Using the parking brake as an emergency brake in a vehicle with an AS Tronic gearbox whilst driving on a slippery road may result in the engine stalling. Power assisted steering is then no longer available!

VDL Futura FHD2 - Parking brake - 3

Operation and use

VDL Futura FHD2 - Parking brake - 4

Operation and use

2

VDL Futura FHD2 - Operation and use - 1

text_image WABCO -3,0°C 22°C

ILHg0000

Operation and use

6. Climate system controls

General information

The controls 1 to 4 are the controls for the driver's compartment and the controls 6 to 13 are the controls for the passengers compartment.

1 Recirculated air - driver's compartment

At a push of the button for recirculated-air, the LED in this button and the function „recirculated-air - driver's compartment“ are activated.

2 Frontbox fan

By rotating the switch, the fan speed is adjusted to the required setting.

There are five different settings: off, low, medium 1, medium 2 and high.

3 Air supply adjustment for the driver's compartment

By rotating the switch, the direction of the air flow for the driver's compartment is selected. The following settings are possible: foot well fully open, foot well half open / windscreen half open, windscreen fully open, defrost.

4 Temperature adjustment - driver's compartment

By rotating the switch, the temperature is set for the driver's compartment. Rotating fully left max cooling is selected, Rotating fully right max heating is selected. In between the temperature is controlled automatically to the required set temperature.

5 Display

Normally the outside temperature is shown in the display. Depending on which button (1 to 4 for the driver's compartment and 6 to 13 for the passengers compartment) has been operated, corresponding changes will be shown in the display. When for a period of ±8 seconds no changes have been made, the display switches back to the outside

6 Automatic air conditioning mode

At a push of the air conditioning button, the LED in this button and the function "readiness of air conditioning" are activated. The air conditioning is switched on when all the conditions (separate functional description) are met.

7 Dehumidify

If the dehumidify button is pressed, the LED in this button is lit and the dehumidify function is activated. The dehumidify function is automatically deactivated 15 minutes after it has been activated.

8 Smog mode for the passenger compartment (and the driver's compartment)

A push of the smog button activates the LED in this button and the „smog“ function.

9 Automatic preheating function

At the push of the button, the LED in this button and the "readiness of pre-heating" function is activated. The pre-heating is switched on after all conditions (separate functional description) are fulfilled.

When only the main switch is turned on, e.g. during cleaning or a service, you can prevent the preheater from starting by setting the interior temperature as low as possible using buttons 12 and 13.

VDL Futura FHD2 - Automatic preheating function - 1

Operation and use

10 Fan adjustment in the passenger compartment

If the passenger fan button is pressed, then the fan speed will be activated. The value can be changed using button 13. When button 13 is pushed for longer than 1 second, the first value changes every second.

11 Setting the clock, switching times and activation periods

VDL Futura FHD2 - Setting the clock, switching times and activation periods - 1

The actual time is normally transmitted via the clock in the tachograph/speedometer.

The actual time and the switching time are indicated in hours and minutes in the display.

One can program three weekly programs with one on-duration each which can be activated on as many weekdays as required. Only one on-duration - i.e. the next activated on-duration - may expire, then the activation has to be set anew.

Programming the timer

The timer is activated by a longer push (longer than 2 s) of button 11, the LED in button 13 flashes, and the time, weekday, etc. are adjusted by the right rocker button 13 (+) / (-).

Every chosen program can be opened for adjustment by pushing button 11.

If button 13 (+) / (-) is held during the adjustment, the adjusting speed slowly increases after 2s, in order that the time for example can be set quicker.

For quitting and storing the button 11 has to be actuated again.

The selecting menu is left if another button is pushed during the adjusting process or when no button is pushed for more than 60s.

Activating a program

A short push (less than 2 s) of button 11 opens the indication- and activation mode.

A program time (P1, P2 or P3) can be selected by pressing button 13 (+)/(-) and then activated by pressing button 11.

An activated on-duration is indicated as follows:

When the contact switch is turned on: "LED in button 11" on

When the contact switch is turned off: "LED in button 11" flashes short time in intervals of 3 s

12 Indication of the temperature in the passenger compartment

A push of the button activates the indication of the room temperature. The nominal value can be changed using button 13. When button 13 is pressed for more than 1 second, the value is changed in 1 °C steps every 1 second.

13 Button (+) button (-)

The buttons (+) and (-) form a button for the activation of the fan speed in the passenger compartment (activated by 10), the nominal temperature in the passenger compartment (activated by 12) and the timer (activated by 11).

Operation and use

VDL Futura FHD2 - Operation and use - 1

text_image A B C D E F G ILHh0010

7. Left-hand combination switch

A. Air horn

The air horn operates when knob A is pressed.

B. Windscreen wipers

The windscreen wipers are operated by turning switch B.

The switch has 4 positions.

Position 0:Wipers off
Intermittent wipeIn this position the wipers operate every 8 seconds.
Position I:Wipers on, low speed
Position II:Wipers on, high speed

C. Indicators, right

Moving the switch upwards operates the right indicator. The green indicator lamp in the instrument also flashes.

D. Indicators, left

Moving the switch downwards operates the left indicator. The green indicator lamp in the instrument also flashes.

For a brief use of the indicators the switch should be pushed slightly against the spring pressure.

E. Main beam flash

To flash the headlights, the switch must be moved upwards until it meets a resistance.

F. Main beam

The main beam works if the switch is moved upwards past the resistance, but only if the contact switch and the dipped beam have been turned on. The blue indicator lamp in the instrument illuminates when main beam is on.

G. Windscreen washers

If part G of the switch is pressed, the windscreen washer installation is activated and the windscreen wipers make two strokes.

Headlight washers

The headlight washers operate at the same time as the windscreen washers, when dipped beam is on.

VDL Futura FHD2 - Headlight washers - 1

Operation and use

VDL Futura FHD2 - Operation and use - 1

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8. Right-hand dashboard switches

A. Main switch 30
B. Low current protection 30
C. Option 30
D. Front sidelights/dipped beam 30
E. Front and rear fog lights 31
F. Option 31
G. Electrically operated driver's side window31
H. Electrically heated driver's side window31
I. Driver's ventilation fan 31
J. Hostess ventilation fan31
K. Reversing buzzer31
L. Electrical roller blind31
M. Electrical roller blind31
A. Main switch 30
B. Low current protection 30
C. Option 30
D. Front sidelights/dipped beam 30
E. Front and rear fog lights 31
F. Option 31
G. Electrically operated driver's side window31
H. Electrically heated driver's side window31
I. Driver's ventilation fan 31
J. Hostess ventilation fan31
K. Reversing buzzer31
L. Electrical roller blind31
M. Electrical roller blind31
N. Ferry lift/rear kneeling31
O. Ferry lift/front kneeling31
P. Switching on and off of the optional wheelchair lift.32
Q. School bus warning lights32
R. Right/fixed trailing axle wheels32
S. Trailing axle relief32
T. Easy start off32
U. Select32
V. Activate33

A. Main switch

When it is switched on the main switch connects the battery with:

VDL Futura FHD2 - Main switch - 1

  • the switches to operate the doors.
    • The ignition.
    • audio installation and other accessories, such as video, lighting in the toilet etc.
    When the main switch is off the tachograph clock continues to run, the warning system may be used and the pre-heater can be activated if previously set.

VDL Futura FHD2 - Main switch - 2

The master switch can not be turned off when the engine is running.

B. Low current protection

Switching on overrules low current protection

VDL Futura FHD2 - Low current protection - 1

C. Option

This position is not in use and can, therefore, be used to operate an optional instrument or accessory.

D. Front sidelights/dipped beam

The switch has three positions.

VDL Futura FHD2 - Front sidelights/dipped beam - 1

0: Off
1: Front sidelights on.
2: Front sidelights and dipped/main beam on (depending on the position of the steering column switch).
Dipped or main beam operates only with the main switch and ignition on.

Corner light (optional)

Functioning of the corner light is only possible when the vehicle lights are switched on.

VDL Futura FHD2 - Corner light (optional) - 1

Operation and use

At normal driving situation on a straight road the corner light is switched off.

When turning a corner (direction indicator) or slow driving at a curvy road (at a speed up to 20 km/h) the concerned corner light will automatically switch on.

When selecting reverse gear, both corner lights will also switch on as a parking aid.

E. Front and rear fog lights

The switch has three positions.

VDL Futura FHD2 - Front and rear fog lights - 1

0: OFF

1: Front fog lights on
2: Front-, and rear fog lights on

Fog lights can only be switched on when front sidelight or dipped-, or main beam is on.

VDL Futura FHD2 - Front and rear fog lights - 2

Switching off the main switch switches off the rear fog lamp, and the fog lights switch must be reset before the rear fog lamp can be switched on again.

F. Option

This position is not in use and can, therefore, be used to operate an optional instrument or accessory.

G. Electrically operated driver's side window

To open or close the driver's screen, the switch must be pressed on the top or the bottom side.

VDL Futura FHD2 - Electrically operated driver's side window - 1

H. Electrically heated driver's side window

Simultaneous switching on and off of the driver's window and/or window in service door.

The light in the switch will be brightly lit when this function is in use.

VDL Futura FHD2 - Electrically heated driver's side window - 1

I. Driver's ventilation fan

Turns the driver's ventilation fan on and off.

VDL Futura FHD2 - Driver's ventilation fan - 1

J. Hostess ventilation fan

Turns the hostess' ventilation fan on and off.

VDL Futura FHD2 - Hostess ventilation fan - 1

K. Reversing buzzer

Switching on/off a buzzer when driving in reverse.

L. Electrical roller blind

To open or close the left hand sun blind, push respectively the upper or lower part of this switch respectively.

M. Electrical roller blind

To open or close the right hand sun blind, push the upper or lower part of this switch respectively.

N. Ferry lift/rear kneeling

For the operation, see "Ferry lift/front kneeling".

VDL Futura FHD2 - Ferry lift/rear kneeling - 1

VDL Futura FHD2 - Ferry lift/rear kneeling - 2

VDL Futura FHD2 - Ferry lift/rear kneeling - 3

VDL Futura FHD2 - Ferry lift/rear kneeling - 4

O. Ferry lift/front kneeling

There are two ways of temporarily changing the coach level by pneumatic suspension, making it either higher or lower

than the neutral driving level. The temporary high adjustment is usually used to obtain more ground clearance for, e.g. boarding ferries. Adjusting downwards makes it easier for passengers to board.

VDL Futura FHD2 - Ferry lift/front kneeling - 1

VDL Futura FHD2 - Ferry lift/front kneeling - 2

Operation and use

If the pneumatic suspension is not in the neutral position this is indicated in both cases by the illumination of the yellow ECAS symbol in the display.

If the pneumatic suspension is not in the neutral position the warning light on the switch is illuminated.

0: Raising (front and rear)
1: Driving position (neutral)
2: Kneel (front)

VDL Futura FHD2 - Operation and use - 1

If the vehicle is equipped with a lift for disabled people or with standing places, the vehicle speed is limited to 5 km/h when the vehicle is kneeled.

VDL Futura FHD2 - Operation and use - 2

If the vehicle is not in the neutral position, the maximum vehicle speed may not exceed 5 km/h.

VDL Futura FHD2 - Operation and use - 3

The ECAS system switches automatically to driving (neutral) position above 20 km/h, and switches in again if the speed falls below 5 km/h.

P. Switching on and off of the optional wheelchair lift.

VDL Futura FHD2 - Operation and use - 4

This option will only function when main switch and parking brake are on.

VDL Futura FHD2 - Operation and use - 5

If the vehicle has a trailing axle: ensure, before opening the lift door, that the trailing axle is in the straight-ahead position.

Q. School bus warning lights

The vehicle can be equipped with school bus warning lights as an optional extra. When the door is opened, the warning lights are turned on automatically. This function can be turned off using this switch.

VDL Futura FHD2 - Operation and use - 6

R. Right/fixed trailing axle wheels

This switch is used to place the trailing axle in the straight-ahead position and to lock it in this position. This can be useful in particular manoeuvres at speeds below 30 km/h.

VDL Futura FHD2 - Operation and use - 7

This switch may also be of assistance on extremely slippery roads. If this function is turned on, the red warning light in the switch will be lit.

S. Trailing axle relief

If, under extreme conditions, the grip of the driven wheels is not sufficient for the vehicle to pull away, this switch can be used to temporarily relieve the trailing axle (maximum 3 tons). As a result, more pressure will temporarily be placed on the driven wheels.

VDL Futura FHD2 - Operation and use - 8

The trailing axle relief lasts for 80 seconds. If it is necessary to relieve the trailing axle again, you will have to wait at least 50 seconds before the system reacts again. This is due to legal requirements relating to the maximum axle loading.

If this function is turned on, the red warning light in the switch will be lit.

T. Easy start off

The vehicle is equipped with an electronic starting device (easy start). For more information, see Pulling away with starting assistance ([I] 47).

U. Select

To go through the various functions and menu's in the

VDL Futura FHD2 - Operation and use - 9

VDL Futura FHD2 - Operation and use - 10

Operation and use

display, push respectively the upper or lower part of this switch.

Upper part means one position forward, lower part means one position backward.

VDL Futura FHD2 - Operation and use - 1

By using the emergency switch, it is not possible to meet the electrical system's switching off conditions. This may have serious consequences for various electrical systems in the vehicle. Therefore, only use the emergency switch in the event of an emergency.

VDL Futura FHD2 - Operation and use - 2

The emergency switch can also be used to reset the electrical system.

For this, you have to turn off the contact switch and the main switch. Wait at least 2 minutes after turning off the contact switch to enable the EAS system to shut down.

Use the emergency switch to turn off all the electrical consumers, with the exception of the hazard warning lights, the pre-heater and the tachograph.

V. Activate

This switch accesses menu 1. Next by pushing this switch the, with the select switch, chosen function can be activated.

VDL Futura FHD2 - Activate - 1

9. Engine brake

The engine brake may be used during prolonged braking, for example during descents or when braking from high speeds.

Depressing the engine brake operating knob provides extra braking via the engine. Fuel injection is reduced and the butterfly valve in the exhaust system is closed.

This reduces brake wear.

The additional power declines as the engine speed falls.

VDL Futura FHD2 - Engine brake - 1

The engine brake does not function at engine speeds below 700 rpm.

VDL Futura FHD2 - Engine brake - 2

Operation and use

VDL Futura FHD2 - Operation and use - 1

text_image Technical diagram of a car seat assembly with labeled components and directional arrows indicating movement or force.

10.Driver's seat

VDL Futura FHD2 - 10.Driver's seat - 1

Set the seat in the desired position before starting to drive.

A: Shoulder adjustment

Pull the lever upwards and adjust the shoulder to the desired position.

B: Seat back adjustment

Pull the lever upwards and adjust the seat back to the desired position.

C: Seat heating

Switch on/off the seat heating.

D: Lumbar support adjustment

The air-cushion in the seat back can be filled (+) or emptied (-) by pushing on the top or bottom of the knob.

E: Seat height adjustment

Push or pull the handle up or down to adjust the seat to the desired height. The seat is adjustable over a range of 100 mm.

F: Vibration dampers

Raise the lever (Seating comfort "soft"), Press down the lever (Seating comfort "hard").

VDL Futura FHD2 - F: Vibration dampers - 1

The vibration damper must be set so that it offers enough stance on a poor road surface, so the driver will not loose contact the pedals.

G: Quick lowering

Push the handle downward until the seat is lowered to its lowest position. (Useful when getting in or out).

When the handle is returned to its previous position, the seat returns to its former height.

H: Fore and aft adjustment

Pull the handle up and adjust the seat to the required position. The seat is adjustable over a range of 180 mm.

I: Adjusting the seat lengthways

Pull the handle upwards and adjust the seat to the required position.

J: Adjusting seat inclination

Pull the hand lever upward to place the seat in the desired position. Releasing the hand lever locks the seat in position.

K: Armrest adjustment (optional)

The knurled knob at the front can adjust the inclination.

L: Hands-free phone/microphone switch (optional)

Switches on/off the microphone/hands-free phone.

11. Clutch pedal

For an explanation of how to use the clutch, see Gear shifting (☐ 46).

VDL Futura FHD2 - Clutch pedal - 1

Operation and use

VDL Futura FHD2 - Clutch pedal - 2

Operation and use

VDL Futura FHD2 - Operation and use - 1

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ILHh0011

Operation and use

12. Instrument panel

A. Speedometer 37
B. Odometer 37
C. Tachograph warning light 37
D. ABS warning light 37
E. Main beam warning light 37
F. Indicator warning lights (green)37
G. Priority warning 137
H. Priority warning 237
I. Trailer indicator warning lights37
J. Retarder warning light37
K. Parking brake warning light38
L. Rev counter38
M. Clock/trip meter38
N. Fuel gauge38
O. Switching between the clock and the trip meter38
P. display38
Q. Brightness adjustment38
R. Coolant temperature gauge38

General information

If the ignition is switched on while the main switch is on, all the warning lights will be lit for 3 seconds, with those that are active remaining on.

The fuel gauge and coolant temperature indicators go to maximum and then return to show the current reading.

A. Speedometer

The speedometer inner ring gives the speed in mph, the outer ring shows km/h.

B. Odometer

The odometer records the distance travelled.

C. Tachograph warning light

This lamp is illuminated when there is a fault in the tachograph, or when other problems occur, such as the absence of a tachograph disk.

D. ABS warning light

This lamp lights up when the main switch and ignition are switched on. The light should go out after a few seconds.

E. Main beam warning light

When the main beam is on, the blue indicator lamp is illuminated.

Selection between main and dipped beam is via the left hand combination switch on the steering column.

F. Indicator warning lights (green)

When the left or right indicators or the hazard warning lights are switched on, the indicator warning lights flash with the same frequency.

If one of the external indicator lamps fails to flash, the warning light flashes only once.

G. Priority warning 1

If this warning light is lit in combination with a fault symbol on the display, the vehicle must be brought to a standstill as quickly as possible and the engine must be turned off (see Messages on the display (☐ 50)).

H. Priority warning 2

If this warning light comes on in combination with a fault symbol on the display, there is a problem that must be solved as soon as possible, but the vehicle may be driven to the next available stopping place, see: Messages on the display (☐ 50).

I. Trailer indicator warning lights

These lamps operate when the indicator lamps are switched on and a trailer is in use.

J. Retarder warning light

This lamp lights up when the retarder operates.

The brake lights also operate.

VDL Futura FHD2 - Retarder warning light - 1

Operation and use

K. Parking brake warning light

When the parking brake is operated the warning light will come on and the rear wheels will be locked.

L. Rev counter

The revolution counter has 4 regions:

Left hand region: Very economical

Green: Economical.

Middle region: Less economical.

Red: Avoid

M. Clock/trip meter

The clock shows the time and can be set by setting the tachograph clock.

Pushing knob (O) switches to trip meter allowing distance travelled to be measured.

N. Fuel gauge

The fuel gauge operates only when the ignition is on, and shows the fuel level in both tanks.

A warning symbol is illuminated in the display when the fuel in the tanks falls below the reserve level.

VDL Futura FHD2 - Fuel gauge - 1

There is approximately 40 litres of fuel remaining.

O. Switching between the clock and the trip meter

Switching between clock and trip meter.

The trip meter can be reset to zero by pushing the knob in longer.

P. display

The display normally shows the driver menu. For instructions, see Display (☐ 54).

Q. Brightness adjustment

The brightness of the display can be adjusted to personal preference.

R. Coolant temperature gauge

Do not over exert the engine when the coolant temperature is below 50 °C.

The engine is at operating temperature when the temperature gauge is vertical or slightly further.

The warning symbol in the display is illuminated when the temperature rises above 110^ C.

The red field of the gauge starts at 0 °C.

If the coolant temperature suddenly rises and/or the pointer is in the red field, the following points should be checked:

• Coolant level, see: Coolant level (☐ 90).
• Poly V-belt and water hoses.
- Cooling fan.

VDL Futura FHD2 - Coolant temperature gauge - 1

13. Steering wheel adjustments

The steering wheel and steering column may be placed in the desired position by operation of the knob.

The steering column is locked when the pressure switch is released.

VDL Futura FHD2 - Steering wheel adjustments - 1

Adjusting is only possible when the parking brake is applied.

14. Brake pedal

For an explanation of how to use the brakes, see Braking (11 11).

Operation and use

VDL Futura FHD2 - Operation and use - 1

text_image B ⊕ D OFF Δ (○) OFF RES A E (○) C RES

ILHh0012

15. Right-hand combination switch

A. Cruise control

VDL Futura FHD2 - Cruise control - 1

Cruise control can only be engaged when vehicle speed is above 30 km/h.

The cruise control can be set to the current speed by moving the combination switch towards or away from the steering wheel.

VDL Futura FHD2 - Cruise control - 2

Only use the cruise control when traffic conditions permit a steady speed. Do not use the cruise control in busy traffic, on roads with many bends or on slippery surfaces.

B. Acceleration/deceleration

If a different speed is required to that set, moving the switch briefly towards the steering wheel will raise the speed by 1 km/h.

The speed can be increased smoothly by holding the switch in the raised position.

Moving the switch away from the steering wheel allows deceleration in the same manner.

The vehicle speed may also be increased with the cruise control switched on by depressing the accelerator.

C. Cruise control memory function

By pressing the "RES" button (C) the cruise control is re-engaged at last set speed used. If the current vehicle speed is lower than this speed, the cruise control will attempt to accelerate the vehicle speed to the last set speed.

D. Turning off the cruise control

Cruise control is switched off by moving the switch forwards.

The cruise control is also switched off if:

• The parking brake is released.
• The parking brake is applied.
• The retarder is operated.
• The clutch is operated.
• The engine brake is operated.
- Neutral.

E. Bremsomat (downhill speed control)/Retarder (Not if automatic gearbox)

The switch has 5 positions to the rear.

Position 1: Bremsomat

When driving downhill at the desired speed, the vehicle speed can be held constant at this value by putting the switch in position 1. The retarder determines the necessary braking force. If the braking force needed is greater than the maximum capacity of the retarder it must be supplemented by use of the engine brake or footbrake.

VDL Futura FHD2 - Bremsomat (downhill speed control)/Retarder (Not if automatic gearbox) - 1

The Bremsomat will be set to the new speed when accelerating using the cruise control or the accelerator pedal, or when slowing down using the foot-brake, the engine brake or one of the retarder settings.

VDL Futura FHD2 - Bremsomat (downhill speed control)/Retarder (Not if automatic gearbox) - 2

Operation and use

Positions 2 to 5: Retarder

Selecting between positions 2 to 5 allows you to switch between 4 different retarder braking forces. This can also be done whilst driving. The retarder light on the instrument panel constantly gives the driver information about the present situation. Operation of the retarder will be interrupted during ABS activity, but resumes afterwards.

The retarder also operates during operation of the footbrake pedal.

The engine brake can be used to supplement the retarder.

VDL Futura FHD2 - Operation and use - 1

Ensure that, during hill descents, the engine speed does not fall below 1,600 rpm, as this reduces cooling, which in turn reduces the effectiveness of the retarder (does not apply to vehicles with an AS Tronic or automatic gearbox).

Where necessary, a lower gear should be selected to raise the engine speed and,

thereby, increase both the cooling capacity and the effectiveness of the retarder.

Safety instructions

The retarder should be used very cautiously on wet or slippery road surfaces.

The retarder operates on the driven axle only.

VDL Futura FHD2 - Safety instructions - 1

The vehicle may skid.

Switch off the retarder on very slippery surfaces, to avoid faulty operation see: Vehicle functions (☐ 59).

VDL Futura FHD2 - The vehicle may skid. - 1

During hill descents, operate the retarder with hand control only, not the foot control.

If the effect of the retarder is insufficient, it may be supplemented with the engine brake or the service brake.

Hand gas

Hand gas may be selected when the vehicle is stationary whilst the handbrake is applied and the automatic gear lever is in neutral.

Pressing "SET" causes the stationary engine speed to be increased to 800 rpm.

By pressing "SET" twice, the stationary engine speed will be increased to 1,200 rpm.

By pressing "Set+" or "Set-", the rpm will be increased or decreased by 25 rpm.

By pressing "Set+" or "Set-" continuously, the idle engine speed can be infinitely set between the idling speed and the maximum engine speed (2,000 rpm).

Hand gas can be switched off by placing the control lever in the "off" position.

Hand gas also switches off when the brake pedal or accelerator pedal are depressed, or when the retarder or parking brake are applied.

VDL Futura FHD2 - Hand gas - 1

Operation and use

VDL Futura FHD2 - Operation and use - 1

natural_image Line drawing of a car interior showing engine compartment with hoses and wheels (no text or symbols)

ILHa0008

16. Spare wheel compartment handle

The spare wheel compartment is unlocked by pulling on this handle.

The spare wheel compartment is retained by a catch.

Removing this catch allows the spare wheel compartment to be fully swung down.

The spare wheel and the towing eye attachment are located in this compartment.

VDL Futura FHD2 - Spare wheel compartment handle - 1

The spare wheel compartment handle may not be pulled during a journey.

Switches with no fixed location

The switches described below are associated with optional equipment which may be installed. These components may be found in a variety of locations on the dashboard, depending on customer's and national requirements and the number of options installed.

Destination indicator lighting

This switch operates the destination/route lighting.

VDL Futura FHD2 - Destination indicator lighting - 1

Top lights

Switching the extra top lighting off and on.

VDL Futura FHD2 - Top lights - 1

AV switch

VDL Futura FHD2 - AV switch - 1

Message box above driver

This switch operates the message box with stop message above the driver.

VDL Futura FHD2 - Message box above driver - 1

Message box above driver

This switch operates the message box above the driver with the seatbelt message.

VDL Futura FHD2 - Message box above driver - 1

Panoramic camera

Switching on a camera with a panoramic view.

VDL Futura FHD2 - Panoramic camera - 1

Laptop connection

Wireless pin microphone

VDL Futura FHD2 - Wireless pin microphone - 1

VDL Futura FHD2 - Wireless pin microphone - 2

AV switch for video/DVD player

Switches on the 24 V DC to 220 V AC transformer.

VDL Futura FHD2 - AV switch for video/DVD player - 1

17. Ventilation grilles

The direction of the ventilation grills can be altered to suit personal preference.

Turning the knob on the ventilation grille to zero closes the grille.

18. Audio

See the manufacturer's documentation for further detail on the operation of the audio system.

VDL Futura FHD2 - Audio - 1

Operation and use

19. Tachograph

DTCO (Digital tachograph)

VDL Futura FHD2 - Tachograph - 1

The DTCO tachograph saves an error code if the power supply is turned off or the battery is empty. In some countries, the error code is interpreted as a breach of the law. To prevent the unit from saving an error code when disconnecting the battery cables, place a DTCO workshop card in the unit whilst the battery is disconnected.

If an error code is saved, contact a recognized DTCO workshop to calibrate the DTCO and to delete the code.

VDL Futura FHD2 - Tachograph - 2

text_image 1 12:50 0km/h h card8 h 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 10 9 8 OK

ILHh0022

1 Display
2 Operation driver 1
3 Card reader 1
4 Connection for calibration and download apparatus
5 Operation driver 2
6 Sealing
7 Card reader 2
8 Button for opening printer drawer
9 Printer
10 Menu selection buttons

If DTCO: See the supplier's documentation for the operating instructions.

20. Cup holders

The cup holders are located in the dashboard. The cup holders can be used by pulling them forwards.

VDL Futura FHD2 - Cup holders - 1

Operation and use

VDL Futura FHD2 - Operation and use - 1

text_image ABCDEFGHJ ILHh0037

21. Central dashboard switches

A. Hazard warning lights 43
B. Emergency switch (depending on national regulations)43
C. Open/close the passenger door 43
D. Open/ close the central door 44
E. Lighting for the driver's compartment and the passengers' compartment44
F. Interior lighting 44
G. Passenger reading lights 44
H. Luggage compartment (left) unlocking45
I. Unlocking the luggage compartment (right)45
J. Via monitors 45

A. Hazard warning lights

Operation of this switch makes the vehicle's indicators flash simultaneously. The hazard warning system can be used even if the main switch and ignition switch are off. The lamp in the switch is red and flashes.

VDL Futura FHD2 - Hazard warning lights - 1

If the main switch is on, then the green direction indicator warning lamp on the instrument panel also flashes.

VDL Futura FHD2 - Hazard warning lights - 2

Legal requirements on the use of hazard warning lights vary from country to country.

B. Emergency switch (depending on national regulations)

In the event of an emergency, all electrical consumers will go off, with the exception of the hazard warning lights, pre-heater and the tachograph (if applicable in the location).

VDL Futura FHD2 - Emergency switch (depending on national regulations) - 1

By using the emergency switch, it is not possible to meet the electrical system's switching off conditions. This may have serious consequences for various electrical systems in the vehicle. Therefore, only use the emergency switch in the event of an emergency.

The emergency switch can also be used to reset the electrical system.

For this, you have to turn off the contact switch and the main switch. Wait at least 2 minutes after turning off the contact switch to enable the EAS system to shut down.

Use the emergency switch to turn off all the electrical consumers, with the exception of the hazard warning lights, the pre-heater and the tachograph.

C. Open/close the passenger door

This switch is used to open the passenger door. The red light in

VDL Futura FHD2 - Open/close the passenger door - 1

VDL Futura FHD2 - Open/close the passenger door - 2

Operation and use

the switch will also be lit. Use the switch again to close the door.

The door has a safety feature so that it immediately re-opens when the contact strip meets an obstruction during closing.

VDL Futura FHD2 - Operation and use - 1

If the pneumatic system is blown off, the Connecting the vehicle to an external air supply (☐ 19) procedure must be followed in order to ensure that the door system functions correctly.

D. Open/ close the central door

This switch is used to open the central door. The red light in the switch will also be lit. Use the switch again closes the door.

VDL Futura FHD2 - Open/ close the central door - 1

The door has a safety feature so that it immediately re-opens when the contact strip meets an obstruction during closing.

VDL Futura FHD2 - Open/ close the central door - 2

The central door will not operate if the driver's sleeping compartment hatch to the side of the central door is not properly closed.

VDL Futura FHD2 - Open/ close the central door - 3

If the pneumatic system is blown off, the Connecting the vehicle to an external air supply (☐ 19) procedure must be followed in order to ensure that the door system functions correctly.

E. Lighting for the driver's compartment and the passengers' compartment

The switch has three positions.

VDL Futura FHD2 - Lighting for the driver's compartment and the passengers' compartment - 1

0: Off

1: Courier lighting on.
2: Courier lighting and driver's compartment lighting on

These lamps are also illuminated when the door is opened.

F. Interior lighting

The switch has three positions.

VDL Futura FHD2 - Interior lighting - 1

0: Interior lighting off
1: Night illumination on

2: Night light and strip lighting on

VDL Futura FHD2 - Interior lighting - 2

It is advisable not to leave the interior lighting on for more than 10 minutes with the engine stopped, because of high current consumption.

G. Passenger reading lights

The switch has two positions.

VDL Futura FHD2 - Passenger reading lights - 1

0: Night lights and passenger reading lights off.
2: The reading lights above the passengers' head, the hostest call buttons and the stop buttons (optional) can only be used when the driver has released them using the passenger reading light switch. After being released, the buttons in question will be lit.

VDL Futura FHD2 - Passenger reading lights - 2

The driver can also use this switch to extinguish all reading lamps simultaneously.

VDL Futura FHD2 - Passenger reading lights - 3

Operation and use

H. Luggage compartment (left) unlocking

Operation of this switch unlocks all left hand side luggage flaps and switches on the luggage area lighting.

VDL Futura FHD2 - Luggage compartment (left) unlocking - 1

VDL Futura FHD2 - Luggage compartment (left) unlocking - 2

The luggage hatches lock automatically when the main switch is turned off.

VDL Futura FHD2 - Luggage compartment (left) unlocking - 3

The luggage compartment lighting will turn off automatically whilst driving.

I. Unlocking the luggage compartment (right)

Operation of this switch unlocks all right hand side luggage flaps and switches on the luggage area lighting.

VDL Futura FHD2 - Unlocking the luggage compartment (right) - 1

VDL Futura FHD2 - Unlocking the luggage compartment (right) - 2

The luggage hatches lock automatically when the main switch is turned off.

VDL Futura FHD2 - Unlocking the luggage compartment (right) - 3

The luggage compartment lighting will turn off automatically whilst driving.

J. Via monitors

This switch makes it possible for images to be shown on the vehicle's monitors. It is standard to have one switch for one

VDL Futura FHD2 - Via monitors - 1

system. It is possible to have a number of these switches fitted to display the images from a number of systems.

22. Navigation system

For a detailed description of the traffic navigation system, see the manufacturer's information supplied.

23. Refrigerator

The refrigerator has a capacity of 56 litres or 74 cans. It is also suitable for food. The temperature is controlled by thermostat, and is adjusted by turning a knob.

24. Accelerator pedal

For operating the accelerator pedal.

VDL Futura FHD2 - Accelerator pedal - 1

Operation and use

VDL Futura FHD2 - Operation and use - 1

text_image R 1 3 5 2 4 6

ILHc0019

25. Gear shifting

GO-210-230 gearbox

A GO gearbox can be optionally fitted. The type of gearbox depends on which engine the vehicle has.

VDL Futura FHD2 - GO-210-230 gearbox - 1

The engine cannot be started when the gearbox is not in neutral.

Pulling away in first gear.

Preferably keep your revs between 600 and 800 min-1. Do not push the accelerator pedal whilst driving on a flat road. Don't go beyond 1,000 min-1 in 1st and 2nd gear. In other words, make sure the rev counter remains in the green section! Modern

engines have almost 100% of the torque at an engine speed slightly higher than the idling speed. In other words, stay in the green area. Thanks to the high torque of modern engines, the vehicle can pull away at an almost stationary engine speed when the vehicle is fully loaded! This prevents fast wear of the clutch.

In order to avoid fast wear of the clutch plate and the clutch pressure group we strongly advise you when shunting this vehicle only to use the lowest gear. The gearbox is synchronized, so do not use the double declutch method.

VDL Futura FHD2 - GO-210-230 gearbox - 2

Incorrect changing of gears may damage the engine or the clutch. The gearbox may only put in reverse when the vehicle is at a complete standstill. When changing down gear, always make sure the speed is not too fast for the gear being changed into.

ZF AS Tronic automatic gearbox

Optionally a ZF AS Tronic gearbox can be applied. This gearbox is equipped with an integrated retarder (see Vehicle functions (59)).

The ZF AS Tronic is a fully automatic changing gearbox with automatic clutch control, which eliminates the need for a clutch pedal.

VDL Futura FHD2 - ZF AS Tronic automatic gearbox - 1

Operation and use

VDL Futura FHD2 - Operation and use - 1

flowchart
graph TD
    A["ZF-AS TRONIC"] --> B["A/M"]
    B --> C["D"]
    C --> D["N"]
    D --> E["R"]
    E --> F["+"]
    F --> G["+"]
    G --> H["O"]
    H --> I["N"]
    I --> J["R"]
    J --> K["I"]
    K --> L["A/M"]
    style A fill:#f9f,stroke:#333
    style B fill:#ccf,stroke:#333
    style C fill:#cfc,stroke:#333
    style D fill:#fcc,stroke:#333
    style E fill:#cff,stroke:#333
    style F fill:#ffc,stroke:#333
    style G fill:#cfc,stroke:#333
    style H fill:#fcc,stroke:#333
    style I fill:#cfc,stroke:#333
    style J fill:#fcc,stroke:#333
    style K fill:#ffc,stroke:#333
    style L fill:#cfc,stroke:#333

ILHc0020

  • Upshift 2 gears (spring point stop)
  • Upshift 1 gear (first spring point)
    A/M Change over from Automatic mode to Manual mode (and vice versa)
    D Driving
    N Neutral.
    R Reverse
  • Downshift 1 gear (first spring point)
  • Downshift 2 gears (spring point stop)

VDL Futura FHD2 - Operation and use - 2

Whilst starting the engine, the range selector must be in the N (Neutral) position. Moving the range selector from R to D and visa versa, may only be undertaken when the vehicle is at a standstill.

Shifting

  • Apply the service brake.
  • Move range selector from "N" to "D" or "R".

If one tries to switch over to D or R without engaging the service brake the message BP (Brake Pedal) appears in the display.

The gearbox will still be in neutral.

To switch in after all:

  • Move range selector back to "N"
  • Apply the service brake.
  • Move range selector from "N" to "D" or "R"

VDL Futura FHD2 - Shifting - 1

The driver is not allowed to leave the vehicle whilst the engine is running and a gear has been selected (selector lever in D or R)! The vehicle can be moved by releasing the brakes and simply depressing the accelerator. In order to prevent the vehicle from accidentally rolling forward, the service brake or parking brake must be applied.

The fully automatic mode (A) or the manual mode (M) is selected by moving the gear lever in the "A/M" direction. It is possible to change the mode at any time,

even when the vehicle is moving. It is not necessary to change the position of the accelerator pedal when switching modes. In the full automatic position, clutch and gear control are operated electronically and the engine will operate in the most economical area.

In case of manual operation, each intended gear change is checked by the electronics and if necessary, is ignored to prevent misuse of the driveline. The display of the AS Tronic shows to the driver all important system information, such as: neutral position, current gear, clutch overload or any faults in the system (see Explanation of AS Tronic messages (56)).

Pulling away with starting assistance

The vehicle is equipped with an electronic starting device (easy start). Its purpose is to prevent unintended moving of the vehicle during uphill or downhill dead starts.

VDL Futura FHD2 - Pulling away with starting assistance - 1
BUS & COACH

Operation and use

The Easy Start function keeps the service brake applied for a short period after it has been released.

VDL Futura FHD2 - Operation and use - 1

Once the brake pedal has been released, the brake will only remain applied for a short period of time. The vehicle can start moving.

The time at which the brake is released depends on the position of the accelerator pedal, the position of the clutch and the vehicle speed.

The brake is also released if the gearbox is shifted into neutral or if neither the brake pedal nor the accelerator pedal are depressed within a certain time period.

Switching off starting device

When switching on the contact switch, the starting device is switched on automatically.

When the vehicle speed is < 30 km/h, the electronic starting device (easy start) can be switched off using this switch.

This can be useful when manoeuvring or driving at low speeds, in a traffic jam or during city trips.

VDL Futura FHD2 - Switching off starting device - 1

When operating the switch again or the vehicle speed increases to above 30 km/h, the starting-aid will be activated automatically.

Manoeuvring

First gear and R gear are provided as manoeuvring gear for very slow travel. In the manoeuvring mode, the vehicle (accelerator pedal) is more sensitive and the clutch activation differs from how it behaves in the normal mode.

VDL Futura FHD2 - Manoeuvring - 1

Do not use the manoeuvring mode during traffic jams or at a slope of more than 10% as the continuously slipping clutch may lead to clutch overload in this position.

Activating manoeuvring mode:

By holding the selector lever in position A/M for a few seconds, the display will show MM. The manoeuvring mode will then be activated. By moving the selector lever to position R, the display will show RM. It will then be possible to manoeuvre in reverse.

Deactivating the manoeuvring mode

The manoeuvring mode can be deactivated by:

  • again holding the range selector in position A/M.
  • Operating the kick-down.
  • switching up the gear selector.

The display will now show the selected gear.

If the gear lever remains in the A/M position for 3 seconds or more, then the letters "M or A" will be shown on the display. The letters "M or A" will disappear after a short time.

Clutch Protection

If there is a risk of the clutch being overloaded by several starting procedures being undertaken one

VDL Futura FHD2 - Clutch Protection - 1

after another in short succession or by crawling in too high a gear, the "CL" display appears.

Select an operating mode in which there is no risk of clutch overloading, for example:

  • Accelerate vehicle (to close the clutch).
  • Stop.

VDL Futura FHD2 - Clutch Protection - 2

Operation and use

- Set off quickly in a lower gear

VDL Futura FHD2 - Operation and use - 1

Despite the clutch being automated, the driver still has considerable influence on the clutch's service life. To keep clutch wear levels as low as possible, we would recommend always selecting the lowest gear possible when setting off.

AS Tronic messages

For an explanation of the AS Tronic messages in the display, see Explanation of AS Tronic messages (56).

Gear changes in the automatic mode

All upshifts and downshifts are undertaken automatically.

VDL Futura FHD2 - Gear changes in the automatic mode - 1

The operating mode can be changed from manual to automatic at any time, even whilst the vehicle is being driven.

Whilst driving

Remove your hand from the selector lever whilst driving. Your hand may cause the selector lever to move to "neutral"

VDL Futura FHD2 - Gear changes in the automatic mode - 2

The driveline will be interrupted if a shift is made to neutral. If, at the same time, a screwdriver symbol appears on the display, stop immediately at a safe place and turn off the engine!

Start again (see Shifting (47)).

Stopping and parking

VDL Futura FHD2 - Stopping and parking - 1

The gearbox is set automatically to N (Neutral) after the engine has been turned off or has been idling for 3 minutes.

VDL Futura FHD2 - Stopping and parking - 2

When the engine has been turned off, there is no direct contact between the engine and the axle. The vehicle can, therefore, start to roll. Apply the parking brake

26. Central storage compartment

The storage compartment is opened by folding it forwards and can be locked with a key.

27. Storage compartment behind the selector lever

There is a small storage compartment behind the selector lever.

This can be locked with a key.

VDL Futura FHD2 - Storage compartment behind the selector lever - 1

Operation and use

2

VDL Futura FHD2 - Operation and use - 1

natural_image Line drawing of a car seatbelt device with directional arrows indicating rotation (no text or symbols)

ILHb0001

28. Hostess seat

The seat can be folded upwards by pulling the handle next to the hostess seat backwards. When getting out of the seat, it will automatically fold up.

MESSAGES ON THE DISPLAY

General information

Operation of the main switch brings up the start-up screen and after 5 seconds the driving menu will appear.

Messages may appear on the driving display, which are divided into three priority levels.

When the engine is running priority 1 will appear together with a pulsing buzzing sound, and the illumination of the red stop symbol on the instrument panel.

Priority 2 is signalled by a 3 second buzzing tone and the illumination of the orange warning symbol on the instrument panel.

Priority 3: Status is indicated by the illumination of a symbol on the display.

If priority 1 or 2, automatically the driving menu will appear, no matter which menu was active on that moment.

Priority 1

There is an urgent problem which may give rise to risk of personal injury or damage to the vehicle.

This is signalled by a pulsing buzzing sound, and the illumination of the red stop symbol on the instrument panel.

VDL Futura FHD2 - Priority 1 - 1

Stop as soon as possible in a safe place and switch off the engine and ignition.

Trace the fault and correct it or have it corrected. If the problem is corrected the buzzing and warning symbol will disappear automatically.

VDL Futura FHD2 - Priority 1 - 2

Warning

Coolant level too low.

VDL Futura FHD2 - Priority 1 - 3

Warning

Driver's sleeping compartment.

VDL Futura FHD2 - Priority 1 - 4

Safety warning

Luggage compartment

temperature high

VDL Futura FHD2 - Priority 1 - 5

Safety warning

Engine compartment

temperature high

VDL Futura FHD2 - Priority 1 - 6

Operation and use

VDL Futura FHD2 - Operation and use - 1

Safety warning

Air pressure circuit 1 low

VDL Futura FHD2 - Operation and use - 2

Safety warning

Air pressure circuit 2 low

VDL Futura FHD2 - Operation and use - 3

Safety warning

Air pressure circuit trailing axle low

VDL Futura FHD2 - Operation and use - 4

Warning

Coolant temperature high

VDL Futura FHD2 - Operation and use - 5

Warning

Oil pressure too low

VDL Futura FHD2 - Operation and use - 6

Warning

The oil level is too low.

VDL Futura FHD2 - Operation and use - 7

Safety warning

ECAS fault (see: Pneumatic suspension (ECAS) (11 67)).

VDL Futura FHD2 - Operation and use - 8

Warning

Gearbox problem

VDL Futura FHD2 - Operation and use - 9

Warning

DMCI motor management problem

VDL Futura FHD2 - Operation and use - 10

Warning

The trailing axle is not functioning correctly (see Instructions for driving with a trailing axle (☐ 70)).

VDL Futura FHD2 - Operation and use - 11

Warning

Electronic Brake System problem (see EBS system (116)).

VDL Futura FHD2 - Operation and use - 12

Warning

Emergency valve front door / central door operated

Priority 2

There is a problem which may cause damage to the vehicle if not corrected early.

This is signalled by a 5 second buzzing tone and the illumination of the orange warning symbol on the instrument panel.

VDL Futura FHD2 - Priority 2 - 1

Stop at the first opportunity and switch off the engine and ignition.

Trace the fault and correct it or have it corrected.

When the problem is corrected the warning symbol disappears automatically.

VDL Futura FHD2 - Priority 2 - 2

Warning

Alternator 1 charging current fault

VDL Futura FHD2 - Priority 2 - 3

Warning

Alternator 2 charging current fault

VDL Futura FHD2 - Priority 2 - 4

Brake pad wear indicator

Brake pads front axle due for replacement

VDL Futura FHD2 - Priority 2 - 5

Brake pad wear indicator

Brake pads driven axle due for replacement

VDL Futura FHD2 - Priority 2 - 6

BUI & COACH

Operation and use

VDL Futura FHD2 - Operation and use - 1

Brake pad wear indicator

Brake pads trailing axle due for replacement

VDL Futura FHD2 - Operation and use - 2

Warning

Power train CAN problem.

VDL Futura FHD2 - Operation and use - 3

Warning

Vehicle CAN problem.

VDL Futura FHD2 - Operation and use - 4

Warning

Low oil pressure

VDL Futura FHD2 - Operation and use - 5

Warning

Low oil level

VDL Futura FHD2 - Operation and use - 6

Warning

The oil level is too high.

VDL Futura FHD2 - Operation and use - 7

Warning

DMCI motor management problem

VDL Futura FHD2 - Operation and use - 8

Warning

Retarder fault

VDL Futura FHD2 - Operation and use - 9

Warning

This symbol lights up when an error code has been recorded in one of the electronic units of the engine management system or the exhaust gas after-treatment system

VDL Futura FHD2 - Operation and use - 10

The engine does not meet session legislation requirements at that moment.

If this warning is ignored automatic engine torque reduction may be expected. See also AdBlue legal minimum level (11 10)

VDL Futura FHD2 - Operation and use - 11

The error codes can be d by the inspectors up to days after they have been ed.

VDL Futura FHD2 - Operation and use - 12

Warning

Emission After treatment System (EAS) problem

VDL Futura FHD2 - Operation and use - 13

Safety warning

Door system problem

VDL Futura FHD2 - Operation and use - 14

Warning

Emergency hammer not in place

VDL Futura FHD2 - Operation and use - 15

Warning

The trailing axle is not functioning correctly (see Instructions for driving with a trailing axle (70)).

VDL Futura FHD2 - Operation and use - 16

Warning

The trailing axle electronics or sensor are not functioning correctly. This may result in reduced functionality of the ESC system.

Fuel indicator Fuel level is low

VDL Futura FHD2 - Operation and use - 17

Warning

AdBlue level low

VDL Futura FHD2 - Operation and use - 18

Warning

Gearbox problem

VDL Futura FHD2 - Operation and use - 19

Warning

Electronic Brake System problem

VDL Futura FHD2 - Operation and use - 20

Operation and use

VDL Futura FHD2 - Operation and use - 1

Warning

Trailer Electronic Brake System problem

This is lit in combination with the red EBS light.

VDL Futura FHD2 - Operation and use - 2

ECAS message (see

Pneumatic suspension (ECAS) (67).

VDL Futura FHD2 - Operation and use - 3

Warning

Starter motor protection activated. Wait 15 minutes for cooling down the starter motor

Status is indicated by the illumination of a symbol on the display.

You may continue to drive but check the origin of the warning message and correct it at the first opportunity.

VDL Futura FHD2 - Operation and use - 4

No oil level measurement possible (only displayed for 1 minute)

VDL Futura FHD2 - Operation and use - 5

Check the oil level using the dipstick (see

Manually checking the oil level (☐ 88).

VDL Futura FHD2 - Operation and use - 6

Sleeping compartment hatch open

VDL Futura FHD2 - Operation and use - 7

Door open

When front and/or central door are open and the vehicle speed is higher than 5 km/h this symbol will appear in the display.

VDL Futura FHD2 - Operation and use - 8

Drain tank is full

VDL Futura FHD2 - Operation and use - 9

^1 Park the vehicle in an appropriate place before emptying the toilet.

VDL Futura FHD2 - Operation and use - 10

Fresh water tank for washing hands is empty

VDL Futura FHD2 - Operation and use - 11

Fuel pipe heating (Optional)

VDL Futura FHD2 - Operation and use - 12

The symbol is lit when the ASR system or the drag torque control is active or when the stability control intervenes

VDL Futura FHD2 - Operation and use - 13

The symbol is lit when the ASR increased slip control was activated via the ASR switch (see Vehicle functions (11) 59).

VDL Futura FHD2 - Operation and use - 14

The symbol lights up when the retarder footbrake function is switched off (see Vehicle functions ([ 59]).

VDL Futura FHD2 - Operation and use - 15

Hostess call operated by passenger

VDL Futura FHD2 - Operation and use - 16

Stop button operated by passenger

VDL Futura FHD2 - Operation and use - 17

Operation and use

VDL Futura FHD2 - Operation and use - 1

Trailing axle relief

The load is relieved from the rear axle for 80 seconds. If you wish to relieve the rear axle again, it is necessary to wait for 50 seconds until the system reacts again. This is due to legal requirements relating to the maximum axle loading.

VDL Futura FHD2 - Operation and use - 2

Wind screen heating

Switches off automatically after 15 minutes.

VDL Futura FHD2 - Operation and use - 3

The symbol is lit when the toilet is occupied.

VDL Futura FHD2 - Operation and use - 4

The symbol is lit when the front fog lights are turned on.

VDL Futura FHD2 - Operation and use - 5

The symbol is lit when the rear fog light is turned on.

VDL Futura FHD2 - Operation and use - 6

The symbol is lit when the Easy Start is turned off.

VDL Futura FHD2 - Operation and use - 7

The symbol is lit when the reversing buzzer is turned off.

VDL Futura FHD2 - Operation and use - 8

natural_image Side view of a modern bus with 'FUTURA' branding on the front (no additional text or symbols visible)

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DISPLAY

General information

Operation of the main switch brings up the start-up screen and after 5 seconds the driving menu will appear.

If from the driving menu another menu is chosen and there is for approximately 11 seconds no further operation, the driving menu will automatically open.

The various adjustments possible via the display are described in this section.

Selecting

To go through the various functions and menu's in the display, push respectively the upper or lower part of this switch.

VDL Futura FHD2 - Selecting - 1

Upper part means one position forward, lower part means one position backward.

Activating

Pressing this switch will access menu 1.

VDL Futura FHD2 - Activating - 1

Next by pushing this switch the, with the select switch, chosen function can be activated.

VDL Futura FHD2 - Activating - 2

Operation and use

VDL Futura FHD2 - Operation and use - 1

text_image D E N AL 94 ① A C B -1+ -2+ +3 ① ② +3 + ILHh0029

If the engine is running and there are one or more faults, then this will be shown by means of a symbol on the display (see Messages on the display (11 50)).

Messages at the top of the display

In the upper bar the display provides information on the status of the transmission.

A Cruise control activated
B Saved cruise control speed (±1 km)
C Bremsomat activated
D AS Tronic activated gear messages
E AS Tronic messages

VDL Futura FHD2 - Messages at the top of the display - 1

Operation and use

AS Tronic activated gear messages

VDL Futura FHD2 - AS Tronic activated gear messages - 1

Automatic mode/Manual mode To switch the operating mode from automatic to manual, push the tip lever to the left.

VDL Futura FHD2 - AS Tronic activated gear messages - 2

Manual mode To switch the operating mode from automatic to manual, push the tip lever to the left.

Transmission in neutral position

VDL Futura FHD2 - AS Tronic activated gear messages - 3

Reverse gear is engaged.

VDL Futura FHD2 - AS Tronic activated gear messages - 4

Which gear is selected in the gearbox

VDL Futura FHD2 - AS Tronic activated gear messages - 5

Explanation of AS Tronic messages

VDL Futura FHD2 - Explanation of AS Tronic messages - 1

System "self-check". Display appears when contact is "on".

VDL Futura FHD2 - Explanation of AS Tronic messages - 2

"Brake pedal". Before shifting first operate the brake pedal.

VDL Futura FHD2 - Explanation of AS Tronic messages - 3

Warning information

"Airless" Alternates with the normal display. The transmission compressed air system has insufficient pressure.

Only pull away once there is sufficient pressure in the pneumatic system. If the clutch doesn't open when stopping as a result of insufficient air pressure, the engine is "stalled".

⚠️If the gear is changed whilst the pneumatic pressure is too low, the transmission may remain in neutral to ensure that there is no direct drive and to prevent the engine brake from being ineffective.

Warning information

"Accelerator pedal". Move the accelerator pedal to the stationary position. If the display does not go out, there is a system error. Further travel is not possible.

⚠️If the accelerator pedal is depressed when starting the engine, the dashboard display will show the "FP" message and the vehicle will not select a gear.

Operation and use

VDL Futura FHD2 - Operation and use - 1

Warning information

"Clutch" Alternates with the normal display. Clutch is overloaded. Select an operating mode in which the clutch will not be overloaded, for example:

-Accelerate vehicle (to close the clutch)

-Stop the vehicle

-Set off briskly in a lower gear

Even though the clutch is automated, the driver still has considerable influence on clutch service life. To keep levels of wear on the clutch low, we would recommend that when setting off, you always select the lowest gear possible.

VDL Futura FHD2 - Warning information - 1

Warning information

"Clutch Wear" Proceed to a recognized workshop to have the clutch exchanged at the next opportunity.

VDL Futura FHD2 - Warning information - 1

Warning information

"High temperature" (the transmission temperature is too high).

VDL Futura FHD2 - Warning information - 1

Warning information

"Electronic Error" Is displayed if the communication between the display and the transmission electronics is interrupted.

VDL Futura FHD2 - Warning information - 1

Warning information

"Easy Start" There is no temporary starting traction control.

The vehicle can start moving.

VDL Futura FHD2 - Warning information - 1

Warning information

"Neutral Shift" Set rotary switch to «N» Neutral.

VDL Futura FHD2 - Warning information - 1

Depending on the vehicle type, the transmission may automatically shift to neutral after a certain amount of time in order to protect the clutch's mechanical components.

VDL Futura FHD2 - Warning information - 2

Warning information

"Clutch Check" The clutch position is unclear.

VDL Futura FHD2 - Warning information - 1

Warning information

"Transmission Check" The transmission position cannot be learned.

VDL Futura FHD2 - Warning information - 1

Warning information

"Selector lever" is in the "in between" position.

VDL Futura FHD2 - Warning information - 1

Operation and use

VDL Futura FHD2 - Operation and use - 1

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Error menu

When entering the error menu one can on-board check which problem occurred.

The error menu can be opened when next conditions are fulfilled:

  • Switch on main switch
  • Switch on contact switch
  • Apply parking brake

If one of the above mentioned conditions is no longer present, the error menu will be closed and the driving menu will be opened.

When pressing switch A and B at the same time the error menu will open.

VDL Futura FHD2 - Error menu - 1

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Information menu

This display shows the air pressures in brake circuit 1 and brake circuit 2.

This display also shows the AdBlue level and the engine oil level (see Engine oil level electronically (87)).

VDL Futura FHD2 - Information menu - 1

If an “?” is given for the oil level, then this means that the oil level cannot be read. The oil measurement conditions have not been fulfilled.

VDL Futura FHD2 - Information menu - 2

Operation and use

VDL Futura FHD2 - Operation and use - 1

text_image N A L 94 ON OFF km OFF AUTO

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Vehicle functions

Vehicle functions and options can be switched on and off via this display.

1 Normally the retarder is switched on and is brought into operation by the initial movement of the footbrake pedal This extends the life of the brake components

Operating this control knob switches off the retarder footbrake function.

2 The ASR system is always switched on, but operating this switch allows increased slip of the driven wheels before the system intervenes.

The ASR system prevents the driven wheels slipping both when moving off and when in motion, in order to obtain optimal traction and stability

VDL Futura FHD2 - Vehicle functions - 1

VDL Futura FHD2 - Vehicle functions - 2

VDL Futura FHD2 - Vehicle functions - 3

2 Depending on the condition of the road surface, the ASR system reduces engine power and/or regulates braking pressure when excessive slippage is detected. On consistent road surfaces control will primarily be by means of reduced engine power.

The ASR symbol on the display will light up when the ASR system is in operation

VDL Futura FHD2 - Vehicle functions - 4

Operation of the ASR system is an indication of slippery road surfaces.

3 Mirror heating is on by default when the temperature falls below 15^ C Mirror heating can also be switched on at temperatures above 15^ C by operating this control knob

4 Speed warning: If speed warning is activated for a particular speed, the driver is warned by means of a buzzer when this speed is exceeded.

Operation and use

VDL Futura FHD2 - Operation and use - 1

text_image NAL 94 ON OFF OFF NAV AUTO

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Vehicle functions 2

Vehicle functions and options can be switched on and off via this display.

1 Kitchen users: Operation makes it possible to use the kitchen equipment.
2 Navigation on monitors: Operation displays the navigation on the monitors in the coach.
3 WC/drain tank emptying

The WC/drain tank can be emptied by means of this switch. This can only be activated when the coach is not moving and the engine is switched off.

⚠️ Empty only in a suitable location.

4 Wind screen heating

The wind screen heating can be switched on/off by means of this switch. The wind screen heating switches off automatically after 15 minutes.

VDL Futura FHD2 - Wind screen heating - 1

Operation and use

VDL Futura FHD2 - Operation and use - 1

text_image N A L 94 ON 220V OFF OFF OFF OFF

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Reversing camera (optional)

When switching over to reverse this display shows the view via the reversing camera.

Blind spot camera (optional)

If the vehicle's speed is below 35 km/h and the indicator at the hostess side is on, the display shows the view via the blind spot camera.

Vehicle functions 3

Vehicle functions and options can be switched on and off via this display.

1 Hostess call: After operation the passengers can use the hostess call switch in the personal setting units, see: Personal service units (☐ 64).
2 If the temperature drops below -15 °C, the fuel pipe heating is switched on as standard, although it can also be switched on manually if temperatures are higher than -15 °C.
3 Bus stop: After operation the passengers can use the bus stop switch in the personal setting units, see: Personal service units (☐ 64).
4 Invertor: Switching on the 24V DC to 220V AC invertor.
5 Vehicle lighting is on by default (Scandinavia) Operating this control knob switches off the vehicle lighting.

VDL Futura FHD2 - Vehicle functions 3 - 1

Operation and use

VDL Futura FHD2 - Operation and use - 1

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PASSENGER COMPARTMENT

Passenger seats

The seats fitted in the vehicle may vary from those described here, depending on the chosen option.

VDL Futura FHD2 - Passenger seats - 1

Fit the passengers' seats using the correct torque.

C Hinged table with space for drinking-glass.

D Magazine rack

E Footrest, adjustable by moving first up, then down.

F Armrest, folds away by first moving it upwards and then downwards.

G Knob (on the walkway side) and handle (on window side) for back support adjustment. The back support can be adjusted by 35^ to 45^ depending on the version fitted.

H Knob for sideways adjustment of the aisle side seat.

Passenger seat attachment nuts

In the rail necessary for the fixation of the seats there are recesses made to fit the fixation nuts.

In the floor these recesses are covered with removable pieces of rail.

In order to remove or add extra fixation nuts, these pieces of rail must be removed. The drawing shows the spots where you can find these recesses (A).

Also on the window side there are similar recesses. These are covered with aluminium covers that are fastened with tape: just pull to remove them. You can find these recesses (B) in the back and in the front of the coach and on the right hand side just in front of the rear rollover bar.

Operation and use

VDL Futura FHD2 - Operation and use - 1

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VDL Futura FHD2 - Operation and use - 2
Recess floor (A)
Recess side wall (B)

VDL Futura FHD2 - Operation and use - 3

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Seat attachment with quick-release system
Always align the seats at a right angle to the side wall.

VDL Futura FHD2 - Operation and use - 4

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Always position the push rod correctly into the seat rail at the wall side.

VDL Futura FHD2 - Operation and use - 5

Operation and use

2

VDL Futura FHD2 - 2 - 1

natural_image Technical illustration of a car seat assembly with mounting bracket and labeled component (no text or symbols beyond label)

Torques for passenger seat attachments

Quick-release connections35 Nm (M10)
Gangway side 35 Nm (M10)
Side wall side 35 Nm (M8)

VDL Futura FHD2 - 2 - 2

To prevent the construction from being overloaded, always observe the 35 Nm tightening torque for the quick-release bolt (1).

VDL Futura FHD2 - 2 - 3

It is no permitted to remove parts or to modify the quick-release system. It is also not permitted to apply oil or grease to the system or to the seat rail.

VDL Futura FHD2 - 2 - 4

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Personal service units

A service unit is installed above each seat. Passengers can use these units to regulate the ventilation and to adjust the reading light to their personal preference. As an option, a speaker, stop and hostess call buttons can be fitted to each personal setting unit.

A The (optional) stop button can only be operated by the passenger when permitted in the display, see: Vehicle functions 3 (61). If the stop button is pressed, the stop symbol appears on the display and a buzzer sounds for several seconds. Opening the door resets this function.
B The (optional) courier call switch can only be operated by the passenger when permitted in the display, see: Vehicle functions 3 ( [ ] 61). When the hostess call button is pressed, the button above the passenger will change colour until the button is pressed again.
C The ventilator mouths may be turned to open or close them and also directed according to preference.
D Directional reading lamps.
E This button turns on the relevant reading light.

Operation and use

VDL Futura FHD2 - Operation and use - 1

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DRIVER'S SLEEPING COMPARTMENT

General information

The driver's sleeping compartment is entered via the left or right luggage flaps or the roller shutter in the central entry.

1. Air outlets

There are air outlets on each side allowing fresh air supply. The air outlets may be turned to open or close them and also directed according to preference.

2. Reading lights

In the driver's sleeping compartment there are two reading lights which can be switched on or off by switch 8.

3. Heating (optional)

Heating of the sleeping compartment functions on the same circuit as the under floor heaters. Temperature can be adjusted by the thermostatic valve.

4. Emergency unlocking

When necessary the luggage flap can be unlocked from the inside by pulling the bar.

5. Sleeping compartment window

For ventilation purposes the window can be opened to the inside by pressing the knob and at the same time pulling the upper side of the window to the inside.

6. Ventilator switch

When the main switch is on, the extractor fan can be turned on or off using this switch.

7. Warning switch

Operation of this switch gives the driver a warning message on the dashboard

8. Lighting switch

When the main switch is on, the reading light can be turned on or off using this switch.

VDL Futura FHD2 - Lighting switch - 1

VDL Futura FHD2 - Lighting switch - 2

VDL Futura FHD2 - Lighting switch - 3

VDL Futura FHD2 - Lighting switch - 4

natural_image Illustration of a wall-mounted telephone with attached case and circular button (no text or symbols)

9. Intercom installation

The intercom unit can be used to speak to the driver from the sleeping compartment and vice versa.

A call is made by pushing button A which sounds a buzzer in the other receiver.

When the receiver is taken one can speak to each other.

VDL Futura FHD2 - Intercom installation - 1

Operation and use

VDL Futura FHD2 - Operation and use - 1

text_image A B C D E F G H

TOILET

General information

Depending on the chosen option, the toilet may differ from that described here.

The toilet air extraction operates continuously from the switching on of the contact switch.

A: Occupied sign, which is illuminated when the toilet lighting is turned on with switch E.
B: Lock, lockable from inside by moving the handle upwards, and from outside with a key.
C: Sink with 70 litre reservoir. The tap is operated (with the knee) by switch (F). To the left of the sink is a waste bin fitted with a smoke detector.

D: Paper towel dispenser
E: Light switch for two halogen spotlights and the occupied light A.
F: Knee-operated switch, for operating tap.
G: Chemical toilet with level indicator, and flushing via a knob.
For a detailed description of the WC see the manufacturer's information supplied.
H: Outlet, to allow water to drain away easily during cleaning.

VDL Futura FHD2 - General information - 1

natural_image Simple line drawing of a mechanical component with a downward arrow, no text or symbols present

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WC/drain tank emptying

Depending on the chosen option the WC/ drain tank can be emptied by pulling the toilet slide which is accessible via the luggage compartment. An other possibility is by means of operating a switch, see: Vehicle functions 2 (☐ 60).

VDL Futura FHD2 - WC/drain tank emptying - 1

Park the vehicle in an appropriate place before emptying the toilet.

VDL Futura FHD2 - WC/drain tank emptying - 2

Operation and use

KITCHEN

For a detailed description of the on-board kitchen see the manufacturer's information supplied.

For a detailed description of the navigation system see the manufacturer's information supplied.

PNEUMATIC SUSPENSION (ECAS)

The Electronically Controlled Air Suspension is operated via a microprocessor.

The vehicle height is stored in the microprocessor memory.

If the actual vehicle height is different, this is adjusted for automatically.

ECAS control symbols

Any disturbance to the ECAS system is reported by the illumination of ECAS symbols on the display, see: Messages on the display (☐ 50).

If the red ECAS symbol flashes, then there is a serious fault.

- The level can not be checked or adjusted.

If the red ECAS symbol illuminates continuously in the driver menu there is a minor fault such as:

  • No speed signal.
  • The level can only be monitored to a limited extent.
  • Low voltage, between 7.5 and 18 volts.
  • Raising inoperative, regardless of valve position.

VDL Futura FHD2 - ECAS control symbols - 1

Operation and use

If the yellow ECAS symbol flashes in the driver menu, the storage pressure is too low.

If the yellow ECAS symbol is continuously illuminated, the level in question varies from the normal level: raising or kneeling required.

Raising/kneeling

The ECAS system is equipped to allow the whole vehicle to be raised, or to allow the front or rear axle to be kneeled separately. The capability to raise the vehicle may be used if more ground clearance is required, for example when boarding a ferry. The kneeling function may be used to allow passengers to alight more easily.

The front of the vehicle is raised or kneeled by means of the Ferry lift/front kneeling ([1] 31).

Position 0: Raise (front)

Position 1: Driving position (neutral)

Position 2: Kneel (front)

The rear of the vehicle can be raised or kneeled by means of the Ferry lift/rear kneeling (☐ 31).

Position 0: Raise (rear)

Position 1: Driving position (neutral)

Position 2: Kneel (rear)

Anti-tilt system

The vehicle can also be fitted with an anti-tilt system (obligatory in the UK).

Any vehicle can drive along a cambered surface at a certain angle. If this angle becomes too great, the vehicle will topple over.

The anti-tilt system increases the toppling angle by 5^ . This means that the vehicle will not topple over so easily.

STEERING MECHANISM

The steering mechanism is hydraulically assisted.

VDL Futura FHD2 - STEERING MECHANISM - 1

In temperatures below 0 °C, it is recommended to run the engine for several minutes, after a cold start, before moving the steering.

VDL Futura FHD2 - STEERING MECHANISM - 2

Do not continue to turn the steering wheel when the wheels touch an obstacle or when they have reached the maximum turning angle. Doing so may damage the steering mechanism.

The turning angle is 60^ and there are 6.8 turns from lock to lock

VDL Futura FHD2 - STEERING MECHANISM - 3

The vehicle can also be steered without the power steering, but this requires a large force.

Operation and use

MIRRORS

The mirrors are electrically heated and electrically adjustable. There are wide angle mirrors on the left (optional) and/or right.

The heating functions automatically but can switched on manually (see Vehicle functions (1) 59).

VDL Futura FHD2 - MIRRORS - 1

text_image A B ILHa0011

Removing mirrors

The mirrors can be removed (e.g. when cleaning the vehicle in a car wash) using a hammer and the punch provided.

Place the punch in the bottom recess. Use a hammer to tap the punch into the mirror. Remove the punch from the recess. The mirror can now be removed.

Replacing mirrors

The mirrors can be refitted by hooking them in the attachment. Place the punch in one of the two recesses at the top. Use a hammer to tap the punch in the mirror (hit the punch 2 or 3 times).

Remove the punch from the recess. The mirror will now be secured in place.

VDL Futura FHD2 - Replacing mirrors - 1

If the mirrors do not vibrate and the adjustment operates correctly, this indicates that they are properly fitted.

VDL Futura FHD2 - Replacing mirrors - 2

Operation and use

INSTRUCTIONS FOR DRIVING WITH A TRAILING AXLE

Steering mechanism

On vehicles fitted with a trailing axle (second rear axle) the trailing axle wheels are steerable at vehicle speeds up to 30 km/h. Driving the vehicle in forward or reverse gears the trailing axle will automatically steer. The steering angle of the trailing axle will be determined by:

  • The sensors on the front axle which, up to 10 km/h, detect the steering direction of the front wheels and convert them to the vehicle electronics, which use this signals to actuate one of the locking cylinders of the trailing axle. By this the system prevents the trailing axle to steer in the wrong direction.
  • The forces created between the tyre and road surface which takes care of the exact trailing of the trailing axle.

VDL Futura FHD2 - Steering mechanism - 1

The trailing axle must be allowed time to return to the straight-ahead position. There should, therefore, be a delay of several seconds after selecting the forward or reverse gear before gently pulling away.

VDL Futura FHD2 - Steering mechanism - 2

A slight movement of the vehicle may assist with straightening up the trailing axle wheels.

Automatic locking straight-ahead

To obtain more stable handling the trailing axle is locked in the straight-ahead position as soon as:

• Speed is above 30 km/h.
- ABS is activated.
- ASR is activated.
• Higher wheel slip is allowed.
- The trailing axle is temporarily unloaded.
- Malfunction in the system.

Manual locking straight-ahead

Whilst driving on loose ground or on a slippery road surface or using ferry lift the locking system can be activated by applying the straight ahead locking switch, see: Right/fixed trailing axle wheels (11 32).

VDL Futura FHD2 - Manual locking straight-ahead - 1

To eliminate tyre wear and decrease the turning circle, it is important to de-activate the manual lock as soon as possible and continue using the automatic system.

Fault in the trailing axle locking system

If the trailing axle fails to lock at a speed above 30 km/h, the red prio 1 warning light will illuminate.

VDL Futura FHD2 - Manual locking straight-ahead - 2

VDL Futura FHD2 - Manual locking straight-ahead - 3

The road handling of the vehicle will become unstable in these circumstances. It is possible to drive but only with adjustments to speed and with the greatest care.

If the trailing axle is not functioning correctly, the yellow prio 2 warning light will illuminate. A VDL Bus & Coach service point should be consulted as possible to have the fault involve

VDL Futura FHD2 - Manual locking straight-ahead - 4

VDL Futura FHD2 - Manual locking straight-ahead - 5

Safety precautions and emergency procedures

3 SAFETY PRECAUTIONS AND EMERGENCY PROCEDURES

GENERAL INFORMATION ....73

ROOF HATCHES ....73

EMERGENCY OPERATION OF THE DOORS AND HATCHES.....74

FIRE EXTINGUISHER....77

SEAT BELTS....77

FIRST-AID KIT....78

HAZARD WARNING LIGHTS 78

EMERGENCY HAMMERS 78

EMERGENCY PROCEDURES....79

Safety precautions and emergency procedures

Safety precautions and emergency procedures

GENERAL INFORMATION

Before departure, the driver should provide the passengers with adequate information about the emergency procedures and should also ensure that all the emergency exits are unobstructed.

In an emergency, the driver and/or the passengers may exit the vehicle via the doors, windows or roof hatches.

VDL Futura FHD2 - GENERAL INFORMATION - 1

Before setting off on a journey, check whether the roof hatches are closed properly.

ROOF HATCHES

The vehicle has two roof hatches.

The front roof hatch is an emergency hatch and the rear roof hatch is a service hatch.

The roof hatches have a ventilation position and can be used as an emergency exit.

VDL Futura FHD2 - ROOF HATCHES - 1

A roof hatch must not be used to climb onto the roof for cleaning work.

Ventilation position

The roof hatch can be opened fore and aft for ventilation purposes by pushing (A) to the outside. To re-close the hatch, pull (A) towards the inside.

The roof hatches may be in the ventilation position whilst driving the vehicle, but if only the front ventilation position is used, the vehicle may not be driven at a speed greater than 100 km/h.

VDL Futura FHD2 - Ventilation position - 1

When fitting the hatches, they must be locked with the aid of the handles (B). To enable this locking action you have to pull (A) firmly towards the interior!

VDL Futura FHD2 - Ventilation position - 2

text_image B 1 1 2 2 A

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Opening/Removing the emergency hatch

In the event of an emergency, the emergency hatch can be removed by first removing the protective covers (1) and then pulling the handles (2) in the direction of the arrow. The roof hatch can then be pushed outwards.

The hatch remains attached by a safety strap.

VDL Futura FHD2 - Opening/Removing the emergency hatch - 1

The emergency hatch can only be removed once and should, therefore, only be removed in the event of an emergency!

VDL Futura FHD2 - Opening/Removing the emergency hatch - 2

Safety precautions and emergency procedures

VDL Futura FHD2 - Safety precautions and emergency procedures - 1

text_image Diagram of a device with labeled components A and B, showing internal structure and connection points.

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VDL Futura FHD2 - Safety precautions and emergency procedures - 2

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VDL Futura FHD2 - Safety precautions and emergency procedures - 3

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Opening the service hatch

If handle B at the rear of the hatch is turned, the hatch can be opened by approximately 100°.

Opening/Removing the roof hatches from the outside of the vehicle

In an emergency, the roof hatches can also be removed from outside the vehicle by pulling the handles.

EMERGENCY OPERATION OF THE DOORS AND HATCHES

Passenger door and central door

By turning the key the handle (1) can be locked/unlocked. By turning the handle the door is locked/unlocked

The door is opened/closed with push button (2).

If the door is unlocked and the normal door operation is not functioning, the door can still be opened by turning the emergency handle (3), allowing the door to be opened by hand.

A buzzer sounds and the red lamp in the switch illuminates.

Safety precautions and emergency procedures

VDL Futura FHD2 - Safety precautions and emergency procedures - 1

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In the case of an emergency, the passenger and central door can be opened from inside by operating the emergency handle (5) which depressurises the system allowing the door to be opened by hand.

VDL Futura FHD2 - Safety precautions and emergency procedures - 2

If the door does not open, turn the knob (4) to unlock the door.

After resetting the door system (opening and closing the doors with the switch), the buzzer will turn off and the red light in the switch will go out.

VDL Futura FHD2 - Safety precautions and emergency procedures - 3

If the pneumatic system is blown off, the procedure Connecting the vehicle to an external air supply (☐ 19) must be followed in order to ensure that the door system functions correctly.

VDL Futura FHD2 - Safety precautions and emergency procedures - 4

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Sleeping compartment hatch

The left-hand sleeping compartment hatch can be unlocked from the inside by pulling the bar (4). The hatch can then be opened. The right-hand sleeping compartment hatch can only be opened from the outside using a key (see Luggage hatch emergency operation (76)).

VDL Futura FHD2 - Sleeping compartment hatch - 1

When the middle door is open, only the left hand sleeping compartment hatch can be opened.

VDL Futura FHD2 - Sleeping compartment hatch - 2

Safety precautions and emergency procedures

VDL Futura FHD2 - Safety precautions and emergency procedures - 1

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Luggage hatch emergency operation

If the luggage compartments and the driver's sleeping compartment cannot be unlocked using the switches on the dashboard, the compartments can only be opened by using a key.

A Turn the key 90° to the right (leave the key in the lock). Open the flap by operating the rocker handle (key remains in the 90° position). Return the rocker handle to the neutral position (key remains in the 90° position).

B Return the key in the 0^ position and remove the key.

VDL Futura FHD2 - Luggage hatch emergency operation - 1

natural_image Technical diagram of an electronic device showing internal components and two 90-degree angle annotations (A and B) with no readable text or symbols.

Resetting the luggage hatch lock

If, after an emergency operation, the lock does not catch in the lock plate, the lock can be reset.

Turn the key 90° to the right (A) and return the key in the 0° position (B) without operating the rocker handle.

VDL Futura FHD2 - Resetting the luggage hatch lock - 1

When using a key to open a hatch, the central locking system will no longer function. To re-use the central locking system, first lock the hatch with the key.

VDL Futura FHD2 - Resetting the luggage hatch lock - 2

Before departing, always check whether the locking mechanism works correctly.

VDL Futura FHD2 - Resetting the luggage hatch lock - 3

Safety precautions and emergency procedures

FIRE EXTINGUISHER

The fire extinguisher is located in the passenger space on the floor to the left and/or right at the front. It has a pressure gauge for checking whether the fire extinguisher is still in good working order. Make sure the fire extinguisher is inspected at least once a year.

If the fire extinguisher is used, it must be refilled as soon as possible.

SEAT BELTS

The driver's and hostesses seat are provided with triple point anchorage safety belts.

The passenger seats are provided with triple anchorage point safety belts.

VDL Futura FHD2 - SEAT BELTS - 1

A vehicle equipped with ESC may unexpectedly brake hard in certain situations. Therefore, always wear a seat belt.

VDL Futura FHD2 - SEAT BELTS - 2

It is your duty to ensure that the passengers use the safety belts properly!

Fastening

Insert the clip into its housing. When a clear click is heard, the belt is fastened. It is important for safety reasons that the belt fits snugly against the body.

The belt must not be crooked or twisted. The hip belt must sit low (i.e. not above the stomach).

Unfastening

Push in the red knob on the housing. Ensure that inertia reel belts are rolled up without the belt being twisted.

Inertia belt reel locking

Normally inertia reel belts are free to move. The belt locks because of:

  • Pulling the belt out too fast.
  • Braking and accelerating, and when the vehicle tilts excessively to one side.
  • On bends.

Inspection

Check regularly that the belts are in good condition.

The locking function of an inertia reel belt can be checked by giving it a short tug.

The belt should lock and not be able to be withdrawn.

VDL Futura FHD2 - Inspection - 1

Safety precautions and emergency procedures

VDL Futura FHD2 - Safety precautions and emergency procedures - 1

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FIRST-AID KIT

The first-aid kit is located in the luggage rack above the driver.

Ensure that you always have a complete first-aid kit (obligatory in some countries).

VDL Futura FHD2 - FIRST-AID KIT - 1

Replace any of the contents as soon as they are used.

HAZARD WARNING LIGHTS

The hazard warning lights must be used if you are forced to stop or park in a way that obstructs or endangers other traffic.

The hazard warning lights are turned on with switch Hazard warning lights (☐ 43).

VDL Futura FHD2 - HAZARD WARNING LIGHTS - 1

Requirements for the use of hazard warning lights vary from country to country.

Hazard warning triangle/warning light

Place the warning triangle or warning lamp (in the toolkit) at least 30 metres behind the vehicle in case of danger.

VDL Futura FHD2 - Hazard warning triangle/warning light - 1

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EMERGENCY HAMMERS

In an emergency these hammers may be used to break glass or to cut through a safety belt.

The emergency hammers are located throughout the vehicle on the window stiles.

Break the lock and hit the sharp point against the window, preferably not in the middle of the window.

VDL Futura FHD2 - EMERGENCY HAMMERS - 1

Take into consideration that the windows may be double glazed.

VDL Futura FHD2 - EMERGENCY HAMMERS - 2

Safety precautions and emergency procedures

EMERGENCY PROCEDURES

Even a vehicle in good condition may be involved in an emergency, a breakdown or an accident. This almost inevitably leads to a dangerous traffic situation, since the vehicle may not come to a stop in a safe location.

The driver's actions immediately after an emergency has taken place can play an important role in limiting the consequences. Since emergency situations are very diverse, it is not possible to give a standard solution. However, there are often similarities, so that it is possible to give the following general rules:

  • First ensure your own safety, then that of the passengers.
  • Calm the passengers.
  • Watch out for other traffic.
  • Be careful where you stand and walk.
  • Watch out for the release of hazardous substances.
  • Act quickly and decisively, but remain calm and avoid panic reactions.
  • Prevent accidents and the escalation of accidents.
  • Ensure that other road users are warned by, for example, hazard warning lights, the vehicle's own lighting, the warning triangle or similar items.
  • Switch off the engine and turn off the main switch.
  • Prepare fire extinguishers and, if necessary, extinguish any fires which may break out.

If necessary, notify the emergency and rescue services.

Assist any injured persons.

VDL Futura FHD2 - EMERGENCY PROCEDURES - 1

Safety precautions and emergency procedures

Maintenance

4 MAINTENANCE

GENERAL INFORMATION......83

MAINTENANCE CHECKLIST 84

DAILY CHECKS/MAINTENANCE....87

WEEKLY CHECKS AND MAINTENANCE.... 91

OVERVIEW OF THE MONTHLY INSPECTIONS WHEN USING BIODIESEL....96

WATER SYSTEM....97

BEFORE THE WINTER....97

AFTER THE WINTER 99

EXTERIOR....99

TOUCHING UP PAINTWORK.... 100

INTERIOR MAINTENANCE.... 101

Maintenance

Maintenance

GENERAL INFORMATION

The durability, safety, depreciation and reliability of the vehicle is to a large extent dependent on the way it is cared for and on the regular performance of the maintenance prescribed by VDL Bus & Coach.

The driver's driving style and his care of the vehicle have a direct influence on the vehicle's condition.

The driver can often give the workshop information which is valuable for good maintenance.

The vehicle should be serviced according to the intervals given in the Futura FHD2 maintenance book. However, if the vehicle has to operate in dusty areas or under difficult conditions the frequency of maintenance should be increased.

The maintenance discussed here refers to activities the driver can carry out himself.

A checklist is provided listing the points to be covered by the driver.

VDL Futura FHD2 - GENERAL INFORMATION - 1

Maintenance

MAINTENANCE CHECKLIST

VDL Futura FHD2 - MAINTENANCE CHECKLIST - 1

Maintenance activities can be checked off on a copy of this list.

Daily Weekly
Engine compartment
Possible oil, air or coolant leak ☐ ☐
Check the engine oil levela
Check the AdBlue level ☐ ☐
Check the fluid level of the hydraulic fan drivea
Check the coolant levela
Check the steering mechanism's hydraulic fluid levela
Check the air filter indicatora
Check the V-belts ☐ ☐
Drain the fuel system's water separatora
Underbody
Drain water from air reservoirsa
Check transmission, rear axle and engine for leaks ☐
Sides
Visually check the wheel nuts. ☐
Check the tyre pressure. ☐
Check tyres and rims for wear and damagea
Remove stones from the tread and from between the double tyres ☐ ☐
Check the closure of all side flaps ☐ ☐
Check the radiatora

Maintenance

Daily Weekly
Front
Check windscreen washer reservoir^a
Check the condition of the windscreen wipers □
Check the spare tyre pressure □
Roof
Check the roof unit dust filters^a
Rear
Check trailer connection^a
Interior
Check seats for secure mounting and covers for damage and soiling □
Check clutch fluid^a
Check the front box dust filters^a
Check seat belt security and reel mechanisms □
Check if first aid kit, emergency hammers and fire extinguisher(s) are present □ □
Check if doors, emergency exits and emergency valves open and close □ □
Check whether the spare parts, jack, tools and hazard triangle are present. □ □
Electrical system
Check all exterior lights (parking lights, main and dipped beam, brake lights, fog lamps, reversing lights, clearance lights, registration plate lights, indicators and alarm lights)
Check the batteries' fluid level^a
Check all interior lighting (main lights, dashboard, reading lamps and entry lighting)
Check dashboard instruments and signal lamps for operation and correct signal before and after starting
Check the operation of the windscreen wipers and the air horn □ □

Maintenance

Daily Weekly
In freezing conditions
Drain the water tank, boiler, coffee machine and toilet water supply ☐ ☐
Windscreen washer antifreeze in reservoir ☐ ☐
Antifreeze in chemical toilet ☐ ☐

a. These activities are discussed in more detail in the following pages.

Maintenance

DAILY CHECKS/MAINTENANCE

Carry out daily checks and maintenance as follows: Maintenance checklist (118 84).

Open the engine compartment see: Engine cover (19).

VDL Futura FHD2 - DAILY CHECKS/MAINTENANCE - 1

Preferably, turn off the engine before opening the engine compartment.

Engine oil level electronically

The engine oil level will be checked electronically.

To perform a reliable electronically oil measurement, following requirements have to be achieved.

VDL Futura FHD2 - Engine oil level electronically - 1

The level can only be measured and displayed when the engine is turned off. Therefore, the level is not monitored whilst driving!

VDL Futura FHD2 - Engine oil level electronically - 2

Make sure the vehicle is on a flat, horizontal surface.

1. At the start of a new day

- Turn on the main switch and wait till the instrument panel has completed the start up cycle.

- Turn the ignition switch to position I (see Contact switch (24)) (engine not running) and wait six seconds for the electronic oil level inspection to be completed.

The engine oil level can be checked on the display (see Display (54)).

2. After a journey

- Turn off the ignition switch and the main switch.

- Wait for 15 minutes and proceed as at the beginning of a new day.

VDL Futura FHD2 - After a journey - 1

The oil level is sufficient to start the engine if the symbol opposite is not visible.

VDL Futura FHD2 - After a journey - 2

Low oil level

VDL Futura FHD2 - Low oil level - 1

If the oil level is low, the yellow "low oil level" symbol will be displayed together with the yellow DMCI warning symbol. The amber central warning light will also be lit (see 2 (☐ 51)).

VDL Futura FHD2 - Low oil level - 2
Priority

In the display the oil level bar shows

Check the oil level using the dipstick, see: Manually checking the oil level (☐ 88).

VDL Futura FHD2 - Low oil level - 3

VDL Futura FHD2 - Low oil level - 4

Maintenance

Oil level too high

VDL Futura FHD2 - Oil level too high - 1

If the oil level is too high, the yellow "oil level too high" symbol will be displayed together with the yellow DMCI warning symbol. The amber central warning light will also be lit (see 2 ( 51)).

VDL Futura FHD2 - Oil level too high - 2
Priority

In the display the oil level bar shows

Check the oil level using the dipstick, see: Manually checking the oil level (☐ 88).

VDL Futura FHD2 - Oil level too high - 3

Oil level too low

VDL Futura FHD2 - Oil level too low - 1

If the oil level is too low, the red "oil level too low" symbol will be displayed together with the red DMCI warning symbol. The red central warning light will also be lit (see Priority 1 (☐ 50)).

VDL Futura FHD2 - Oil level too low - 2

In the display the oil level bar shows

Check the oil level using the dipstick, see: Manually checking the oil level (☐ 88).

VDL Futura FHD2 - Oil level too low - 3

Oil level measurement not possible

VDL Futura FHD2 - Oil level measurement not possible - 1

If it is not possible to measure the oil level, the "No oil level measurement possible" symbol will be displayed (see 3 (☐ 53)).

VDL Futura FHD2 - Oil level measurement not possible - 2
Priority

In the display the oil level bar shows

Check the oil level using the dipstick, see: Manually checking the oil level (118 88).

VDL Futura FHD2 - Oil level measurement not possible - 3

Manually checking the oil level

Use the dipstick to manually check the engine oil level.

VDL Futura FHD2 - Manually checking the oil level - 1

Avoid skin contact with oil. Oil is bad for skin and health.

  • Ensure the vehicle is standing on level ground.
  • Turn off the engine and wait 5 minutes minimum.
  • Remove the dipstick from its holder.

VDL Futura FHD2 - Manually checking the oil level - 2

Maintenance

  • Use a lint-free cloth to clean the dipstick.
  • Insert the dipstick in its holder and wait a few seconds.
  • Remove the dipstick again and read the engine oil level. It should always be between the two marks.
  • Add oil as necessary via the filler opening.

Avoid overfilling.

VDL Futura FHD2 - Maintenance - 1

An incorrect oil level may cause serious damage to the engine.

VDL Futura FHD2 - Maintenance - 2

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PR engine dipstick and filler cap

VDL Futura FHD2 - Maintenance - 3

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MX engine dipstick and filler cap

PR engines

  • If the amber central warning light is displayed, 7.5 litres of oil must be added.
  • If the red central warning light is displayed, 9 litres of oil must be added.

MX engines

  • If the amber central warning light is displayed, 6 litres of oil must be added.
  • If the red central warning light is displayed, 9 litres of oil must be added.

VDL Futura FHD2 - MX engines - 1

For the engine oil specification, see Fluid and lubricant specifications (144).

VDL Futura FHD2 - MX engines - 2

Maintenance

VDL Futura FHD2 - Maintenance - 1

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4

Coolant level

Check coolant level when the engine is cold.

If coolant level is below the minimum, checks for leaks must be carried out.

VDL Futura FHD2 - Coolant level - 1

When the coolant is warm, the cooling system will be pressurized. In that case cover the filler cap with a thick cloth and remove it slowly and gradually, allowing pressure to escape. Then remove it completely.

VDL Futura FHD2 - Coolant level - 2

Coolant is a harmful liquid. Therefore, avoid skin contact to prevent poisoning.

VDL Futura FHD2 - Coolant level - 3

To avoid damage to the engine block when adding cold coolant to a warm engine, add it slowly while the engine is running.

Remove filler cap A from the reservoir.

Fill the reservoir to the maximum.

See Technical information (137) for the coolant specifications.

Bring the engine to the operating temperature.

Switch off the engine and check the coolant level.

Maintenance

WEEKLY CHECKS AND MAINTENANCE

Carry out the following weekly checks and maintenance: Maintenance checklist (11) 84.

VDL Futura FHD2 - WEEKLY CHECKS AND MAINTENANCE - 1

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Hydraulic fluid

Check that the fluid level is between the two marks.

If necessary, top it up via the filler opening. See Technical information (☐ 137) for the hydraulic fluid specifications.

VDL Futura FHD2 - Hydraulic fluid - 1

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Power steering fluid

When the engine is turned off, check whether the fluid is approximately 2 cm above the top mark on the dipstick.

If necessary, top up the fluid.

Start the engine (the engine cannot be started when the bonnet is open).

When the engine is idling, the fluid must reach the top mark on the dipstick.

See Technical information (137) for the power steering fluid specifications.

VDL Futura FHD2 - Power steering fluid - 1

Maintenance

VDL Futura FHD2 - Maintenance - 1

text_image Technical diagram showing engine compartment with labeled parts A and B, including a highlighted component in the inset.

Air filter

There is an indicator fitted, which indicates whether the filter needs to be replaced.

If the air filter is normal/clean, the indicator is in the green area.

If the indicator is in the red area (A), the air filter is seriously fouled and must be replaced.

Clean the filter housing before replacing the dust filter. After replacing the filter, reset the indicator by pressing button (B).

VDL Futura FHD2 - Air filter - 1

Do not use this space for storage.

VDL Futura FHD2 - Air filter - 2

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ILHi0006

Brake system air dryer

Drain the water from the air reservoirs by pulling on the ring.

The air tanks are best reached via the spoiler flap.

If more water is regularly drained off than has been usual, the air dryer filter element must be replaced (consult a VDL Bus & Coach workshop).

VDL Futura FHD2 - Brake system air dryer - 1

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Windscreen washer fluid

Check the fluid level and, if necessary, top it up.

Add cleaning fluid in the summer.

Add special windscreen washer antifreeze in the winter.

VDL Futura FHD2 - Windscreen washer fluid - 1

Maintenance

VDL Futura FHD2 - Maintenance - 1

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Radiator

Check the gauze which is fitted in front of the cooling unit as extra protection against contamination. If necessary, clean the gauze.

VDL Futura FHD2 - Radiator - 1

Make sure the radiator's lamellae are not damaged.

VDL Futura FHD2 - Radiator - 2

text_image Max. Min. ILHz0007

Clutch fluid

Check the level of the clutch fluid.

The fluid level must be between the marks. If necessary, top it up.

See Technical information (☐ 137) for the clutch fluid specifications.

VDL Futura FHD2 - Clutch fluid - 1

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Front box dust filter

The dust filter in the front box is accessible via the hatch in the floor near the front entryway.

Unlock the hatch by loosening the bolts (5mm Allen key).

Remove the hatch.

Remove the filter.

Clean or if necessary replace the filter.

Clean the filter housing before replacing the dust filter.

VDL Futura FHD2 - Front box dust filter - 1

Maintenance

VDL Futura FHD2 - Maintenance - 1

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VDL Futura FHD2 - Maintenance - 2

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VDL Futura FHD2 - Maintenance - 3

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4 Roof unit dust filters

The dust filters are located in the roof units.

VDL Futura FHD2 - Roof unit dust filters - 1

Except in case of emergency, it is not permitted to climb onto the roof by means of the roof hatches.

Clean the area around the roof units.

Open the roof units (cross-headed screwdriver).

Remove leaves, twigs etc. from filter A and clean the filter.

Clean the filter housing.

Check and if necessary replace filter B.

Close and lock the roof units.

Batteries

The batteries are located front right, behind a closeable flap.

The battery cover can be removed by undoing the two wing nuts.

Check the electrolyte level. it must be around 5 mm above the plates. Refill as necessary with distilled water.

VDL Futura FHD2 - Batteries - 1

Battery acid is an aggressive fluid. If it comes into contact with your clothes, eyes or skin, rinse with plenty of water.

Check that the battery contacts and clamps are clean and well-greased. If necessary, lubricate them with acid-free Vaseline.

Don't forget to replace the battery carriage securing pins after these checks.

VDL Futura FHD2 - Batteries - 2

Maintenance

VDL Futura FHD2 - Maintenance - 1

text_image Diagram of a battery cell with positive and negative terminals, showing charge distribution and polarity labels

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Disconnecting and connecting the battery cables

VDL Futura FHD2 - Disconnecting and connecting the battery cables - 1

There is a risk of a short circuit if the battery's positive cable comes into contact with parts of the vehicle. An explosive gas (oxyhydrogen) may be released if there is a short circuit.

VDL Futura FHD2 - Disconnecting and connecting the battery cables - 2

Do not place metal objects or tools on the batteries.

When removing the battery terminal clamps, always remove the black (-) cable before the red (+) cable.

When connecting the battery terminal clamps, always connect the red (+) cable before the black (-) cable.

VDL Futura FHD2 - Disconnecting and connecting the battery cables - 3

The DTCO tachograph saves an error code if the battery terminal clamps are disconnected. In some countries, the error code is interpreted as a breach of the law. To prevent the unit from saving an error code when disconnecting the battery cables, place a DTCO workshop card in the unit whilst the battery is disconnected.

If an error code is saved, contact a recognized DTCO service dealer to calibrate the DTCO and to delete the code.

Disconnecting the battery terminal clamps

  1. Turn off all the electrical consumers.
  2. Turn off the contact switch and the main switch. If applicable, remove the contact switch key.
  3. Wait 5 minutes after turning off the contact switch and the main switch.
  4. Open the front left-hand service hatch.
  5. Open the battery box (see Batteries (☐ 94)).
  6. Disconnect the negative cable and then the positive cable from both batteries.

Connecting the battery terminal clamps

  1. Check whether the contact switch and the main switch are turned off. If applicable, remove the contact switch key.
  2. Check whether all the electrical consumers are turned off.
  3. Make sure the battery terminals and the battery terminal clamps are clean and well lubricated with Vaseline. If necessary, lubricate them with acid-free Vaseline.
  4. Connect the positive cable first and then the negative cable of both batteries.
  5. Close the battery box (see Batteries (11 94)).
  6. Close the service hatch.

VDL Futura FHD2 - Connecting the battery terminal clamps - 1

Maintenance

OVERVIEW OF THE MONTHLY INSPECTIONS WHEN USING BIODIESEL

Diesel is a poisonous substance. Physical contact may lead to serious health problems.

VDL Futura FHD2 - OVERVIEW OF THE MONTHLY INSPECTIONS WHEN USING BIODIESEL - 1

Avoid bodily contact.

VDL Futura FHD2 - OVERVIEW OF THE MONTHLY INSPECTIONS WHEN USING BIODIESEL - 2

In the event of skin contact: remove the substance with paper or a cloth and wash with soap. Contact a doctor in the event of persistent irritation.

VDL Futura FHD2 - OVERVIEW OF THE MONTHLY INSPECTIONS WHEN USING BIODIESEL - 3

In the event of contact with the eyes: wash for at least 15 minutes with plenty of water and visit a doctor.

VDL Futura FHD2 - OVERVIEW OF THE MONTHLY INSPECTIONS WHEN USING BIODIESEL - 4

If swallowed: Do NOT induce vomiting. Rinse your mouth, drink a lot of water and contact a doctor.

VDL Futura FHD2 - OVERVIEW OF THE MONTHLY INSPECTIONS WHEN USING BIODIESEL - 5

In the event of inhalation: get some fresh air and take a rest. Contact a doctor.

VDL Futura FHD2 - OVERVIEW OF THE MONTHLY INSPECTIONS WHEN USING BIODIESEL - 6

Fuel is highly inflammable and may cause a fire or an explosion, which can result in a serious injury.

VDL Futura FHD2 - OVERVIEW OF THE MONTHLY INSPECTIONS WHEN USING BIODIESEL - 7

Collect any fuel which escapes.

VDL Futura FHD2 - OVERVIEW OF THE MONTHLY INSPECTIONS WHEN USING BIODIESEL - 8

Avoid sparks and a naked flame near the fuel.

VDL Futura FHD2 - OVERVIEW OF THE MONTHLY INSPECTIONS WHEN USING BIODIESEL - 9

Dirt in the fuel system may cause serious damage to the fuel system.

VDL Futura FHD2 - OVERVIEW OF THE MONTHLY INSPECTIONS WHEN USING BIODIESEL - 10

Work in a clean environment when working on the fuel system.

VDL Futura FHD2 - OVERVIEW OF THE MONTHLY INSPECTIONS WHEN USING BIODIESEL - 11

Clean the area around the fuel system's components before starting work on the fuel system.

Visually check the components listed below once a month for the following:

- (Flexible) fuel hoses between the lines and the engine for leaks. If necessary, replace them.

  • The contents of the fuel tank for water, contamination and bacteria growth. If necessary, clean it.
  • The seal of the fuel tank's filler cap for leaks. If necessary, replace it.

Maintenance

WATER SYSTEM

VDL Futura FHD2 - WATER SYSTEM - 1

The owner of the vehicle is at all times responsible for the quality of the water used in the vehicle.

In order to reduce the development of legionella bacteria to a minimum, the following issues need to be considered:

Main water tank

- Rinse with disinfectant once a month. Fill the tank to the rim and then add disinfectant in accordance with the product instructions. Next, drain the water via the vehicle's line system and thoroughly rinse the system before using it again.

Extra (drinking-) water tank

- Inspect once a fortnight or inspect with every filling if the tank is not filled through the normal couplings, but through the inspection panel. - In case of scale formation in the tank, it should be cleaned according to the aforementioned method.

Water conduits

As the hosepipes are rinsed out while cleaning the tank, a visual inspection of the hosepipes while filling the water tank should be sufficient.

Connected devices

- The temperature of the water heater should be set to the maximum temperature (approx. 85^ C). Along with cleaning the tanks and the pipes, this will minimize the risk of infection.

VDL Futura FHD2 - Connected devices - 1

Connecting a washing installation to the main water tank increases the risk of legionella infection.

BEFORE THE WINTER

Checking the antifreeze concentration

Check the coolant's antifreeze concentration If anti-freeze has not been added already, fill the cooling system with anti-freeze.

VDL Futura FHD2 - Checking the antifreeze concentration - 1

To avoid damage to the engine block when adding cold coolant to a warm engine, add it slowly while the engine is running.

Only use coolant or, if appropriate, anti-freeze which satisfies VDL Bus & Coach specifications (see Technical information (137) and Fluid and lubricant specifications (144)). No variation is permissible because of the aluminium radiator fitted.

Follow the manufacturer's instructions for the correct composition of coolant when adding anti-freeze.

Windscreen and headlight washer reservoir

Add antifreeze to the windscreen washer fluid.

VDL Futura FHD2 - Windscreen and headlight washer reservoir - 1

Maintenance

Air conditioning

The air conditioning system has a so called "season-off control", which automatically takes care that the compressors run regularly for several minutes to allow oil to be pumped around the system, preventing the seals from drying out.

Fuel

During the winter months the fuel suppliers often use additives to prevent paraffin deposits, which cause blockages.

In extremely low temperatures a maximum of 20% petroleum may be added.

If this is not legally permitted, then a maximum of 20% unleaded petrol can be added.

Fuel additives to prevent paraffin deposits have only a preventative effect. They are not suitable for dissolving the paraffin.

VDL Futura FHD2 - Fuel - 1

Ensure that a spare fuel filter is available so that the filter can be replaced in the event of a blockage (also if it was caused by paraffin deposits) (see Replacing fuel filters (113)).

Batteries

The demands that are placed on the batteries in the winter are much higher than in the summer, because the lights, windscreen wipers, etc. are used more often. Also, the battery capacity is lower at lower temperatures.

A poorly charged battery can become frozen if it becomes very cold.

Regularly check the charging state of the batteries and, if necessary, lubricate the battery poles with acid-free Vaseline.

Locks

Use special lock oil for the locks (Teflon spray).

Avoid the use of de-icer sprays, because they have a negative effect on the locks.

Door and hatch rubbers

To avoid the doors and hatches from freezing closed, the rubbers must be regularly treated with talcum powder during the winter.

VDL Futura FHD2 - Door and hatch rubbers - 1

text_image ILHk0011

Kitchen and toilet water system

Operating this switch disables the water reservoir empty alarm.

The water can subsequently be pumped out of the tank by operating the tap in the vehicle.

VDL Futura FHD2 - Kitchen and toilet water system - 1

Reset the switch after emptying the tank, so that the warning light works again. This will prevent the reservoir from running empty.

VDL Futura FHD2 - Kitchen and toilet water system - 2

Make sure that all reservoirs and pipes are drained to prevent freezing.

Maintenance

AFTER THE WINTER

Cooling system

The anti-freeze mixture may be left in the system during the summer.

Windscreen and headlight washer reservoir

It is recommended to add cleaning fluid to the water.

EXTERIOR

Washing

Wash the vehicle as soon as it is dirty in winter, as salt and dampness easily cause corrosion.

Remove bird droppings as soon as possible from the paintwork! Bird droppings contain substances which attack and discolour paintwork. The discolouration cannot be polished away.

VDL Futura FHD2 - Washing - 1

Always wash the vehicle in a suitable place.

You can wash the vehicle as follows:

Hand washing

  • Carefully hose off the soiling from the underside of the vehicle (wheel arches, around mud flaps etc.).
  • Hose down the whole vehicle to loosen the dirt. Avoid spraying directly into locks.
  • Wash the vehicle using a sponge, with or without a cleaning agent. Use lukewarm water for preference, but avoid hot water.
  • Dry the vehicle with a clean, soft chamois.

Cleaning with a high pressure jet washer

Take care that the spray head of the jet washer does not come closer than 30 cm from the coachwork. Also, avoid spraying into or near the locks of the various hatches and doors and the engine compartment.

Cleaning in a car wash

The vehicle can be washed quickly and simply in a vehicle washing machine.

Bear in mind, however, that the vehicle washing machine cannot clean the vehicle as carefully and effectively as you can with a sponge and water.

The car-wash brushes cannot reach into all areas.

Before entering the vehicle washing machine, ensure that any extra equipment is properly secured, or it may be pulled loose by the brushes.

Only wash the vehicle in a vehicle washing machine with clean brushes.

VDL Futura FHD2 - Cleaning in a car wash - 1

It is not recommended to use a vehicle washing machine for the first few months as the paint layers may not have sufficiently hardened.

VDL Futura FHD2 - Cleaning in a car wash - 2

Maintenance

VDL Futura FHD2 - Maintenance - 1

Depending on the type of car wash, it may be necessary to fold in or remove the mirrors (see Removing mirrors (69)).

Cleaning agents

Car shampoo, or 5 - 10 cl ordinary washing-up liquid to 10 litres of water.

Spotting on aluminium may be removed with car polish.

Never use polishing paste or steel wool.

4

Waxing and polishing

You should wax and polish the vehicle if you find that the paint has lost its gloss and normal washing doesn't restore the original gloss.

Normally the vehicle exterior will need polishing only after a year.

You may apply wax before then.

Wash and dry the vehicle well before polishing or waxing.

Remove any asphalt and tar spots with white spirit.

Stubborn marks may be removed with a fine car paint polish.

There are many brands of polymer wash materials on the market. These are easy to work with and give a hard and very glossy

surface which protects the paint against oxidation, dirt and dulling.

TOUCHING UP PAINTWORK

General information

Paint damage on metal parts must be dealt with without delay to prevent rust formation.

It is advisable to check the paintwork regularly, perhaps after each wash, to touch up any possible damage.

Small spots and scratches can be touched up with a paintbrush.

Larger areas of paint damage require special equipment and expertise. It may be advisable to have more major damage repaired by a specialist workshop.

Minor scratches and stone damage

If the chipping caused by stones has not penetrated to the metal, and undamaged paint is still present, you may paint directly over the spot, after polishing to remove dirt.

If the chipping has penetrated to the metal you must proceed as follows.

- Sand the damage area down to the metal and remove sharp paint edges with a sharp knife.

Maintenance

  • Use a rust removal agent on the metal, wait for several minutes and then wash well with water. Then rub dry. (this treatment is not needed on plastic substrates).
    • Stir the primer well and apply it.
  • When the primer has dried apply the top coat with a brush.

INTERIOR MAINTENANCE

General information

Remove soiling as soon as possible before it has dried in. Soiling should be dissolved away, rather than rubbed, scraped or removed with a hard brush. Always work from the edge of the soiling towards the middle.

Cleaning upholstery

The fabric upholstery of the seats can generally be cleaned with soap and water or a detergent solution.

With difficult stains like oil, ice-cream and shoe-polish, a special cleaning agent may be used. Follow the cleaning agent manufacturer's instructions. Use solvent cleaners sparingly. Excessive use of solvents may damage the foam plastic filling of the seats.

Cleaning curtains and seat covers

Curtains and seat covers can normally be washed in cold water. If they are soiled they can be washed at 30°C. Bleach should not be used.

The use of washing powders may cause discolouration. To keep the colours uniform, the curtains or covers should all be washed at the same time. The covers should not be ironed.

Cleaning plastic

Plastic parts should be cleaned with a lukewarm solution of synthetic cleaning agent.

VDL Futura FHD2 - Cleaning plastic - 1

Avoid the use of trichloroethylene, petrol and similar materials on plastics.

Cleaning carpets

Soak up as much as possible with clean cloths. Vacuum around the affected area to avoid spread. Dampen the affected areas with textile cleaning agent on a clean cloth. Soak up the cleaning agent with a dry cotton wad. Repeat the process until the soiling is gone.

VDL Futura FHD2 - Cleaning carpets - 1

Maintenance

Repairs whilst on the road

5 REPAIRS WHILST ON THE ROAD

GENERAL INFORMATION...... 105

ON-BOARD TOOL KIT.... 106

ENGINE COMPARTMENT 107

WHEELS AND TYRES ....116

REPLACING LIGHT BULBS.... 120

REPLACING FUSES 121

JUMP STARTING. 122

TOWING.... 123

ITS-VDL.... 126

Repairs whilst on the road

Repairs whilst on the road

GENERAL INFORMATION

Although the vehicle may be well maintained, it is still possible that a problem arises, such as a flat tyre or a faulty headlight, that you will have to repair yourself in order to continue your journey.

Safety Safety vest

VDL Futura FHD2 - Safety Safety vest - 1

Before attempting to carry out repairs, you must first ensure your own safety and that of the passengers. Therefore, stop and park the vehicle in a safe place and, if necessary, allow the passengers to wait in a safe location close to the vehicle.

When carrying out emergency repairs, always wear a safety vest (it is a legal requirement in some countries) and, if necessary, also use other means of marking.

Cleanliness

It is extremely important that you make sure you keep the work area clean when repairing a fault, to avoid the repair work from resulting in another fault due to unnecessary contamination.

A clean work area also improves safety. Once the fault has been rectified, make sure to return the area to its original state.

VDL Futura FHD2 - Cleanliness - 1

Repairs whilst on the road

ON-BOARD TOOL KIT

The vehicle is equipped with an on-board tool kit including:

Number

Tool kit 1

4mm drift 1

Tommy bar/wheel nut span- 1 ner

Ring spanner 12 x 13 1

Ring spanner 14 x 15 1

Ring spanner 16 x 17 1

Ring/open-end spanner 18 1

Allen key set 1

cross-headed screwdriver 1

150 mm screwdriver 1

75 mm screwdriver 1

Bench hammer, 400 g 1

Adjustable spanner 1

Combination pliers 1

Water pump pliers 1

VDL Bus & Coach bag 1

Wheel key 2

Jack and foot 1

Jack rod 1

Tyre inflation hose 1

Inspection lamp with plug 1

Towing eye assembly 1

(mounted behind the spoiler flap)

Square spanner 1

Special spanner for hatches 2

Spare wheel puller 1

Lamp kit with fuses 1

The on-board tool kit is located in the extra storage compartment to the right behind the rear axle.

VDL Futura FHD2 - ON-BOARD TOOL KIT - 1

text_image ILHh0047

Inspection lamp connection

The 24 volt inspection lamp can be connected to 3 sockets in the vehicle.

Fuse box in engine compartment and main fuse box in luggage compartment:

The inspection lamp, without its plug, may be connected as shown in the illustration above.

24 Volt connection

To connect the inspection lamp to the 24 Volt connection, the adaptor plug must connected to the inspection lamp's plug (see Plug (107)).

Repairs whilst on the road

VDL Futura FHD2 - Repairs whilst on the road - 1

natural_image Diagram showing a hairpin connected to a plug, with an inset illustrating the connector (no text or symbols present)

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VDL Futura FHD2 - Repairs whilst on the road - 2

text_image A 3 B 1 2 4 h

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If two V-belts are used for a drive, both belts must be replaced.

Plug

Fit the adaptor plug to the inspection lamp's plug for use in the 24 Volt connection as illustrated.

ENGINE COMPARTMENT

Changing the V-belts on a PR engine

1, 2 Replacing the air conditioning belts for a PR engine (☐ 108)
3 Removing and installing the generator V-belt for a PR engine (☐ 108)
4 Replacing a poly V-belt for a PR engine (☐ 109)

VDL Futura FHD2 - Changing the V-belts on a PR engine - 1

Always fit the same type of V-belt.

VDL Futura FHD2 - Changing the V-belts on a PR engine - 2
BUI & COJON

Repairs whilst on the road

VDL Futura FHD2 - Repairs whilst on the road - 1

text_image Technical diagram of a mechanical assembly with labeled parts 1 and 2, showing gears and shafts.

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Replacing the air conditioning belts for a PR engine

VDL Futura FHD2 - Replacing the air conditioning belts for a PR engine - 1

Always fit the same type of V-belt.

  • Unscrew bolt 1 from the pulley.
  • Unscrew bolt 2 until the air conditioning belt can be removed.
  • Inspect the pulleys for damage, rust and grease deposits.
    • Fit a new air conditioning belt.

  • Use bolt 2 to adjust the air conditioning belt tension. If the V-belt is correctly tensioned, it can be pushed down 10 mm when slightly pressed between the air conditioning pulley and the crankshaft pulley (A).

  • Tighten bolt 1.

VDL Futura FHD2 - Always fit the same type of V-belt. - 1

Check the new V-belts after the first 50 km and have the V-belt tension checked as soon as possible by a VDL Bus & Coach service dealer.

VDL Futura FHD2 - Always fit the same type of V-belt. - 2

text_image Technical diagram of a mechanical assembly with numbered components labeled 1 to 5

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Removing and installing the generator V-belt for a PR engine

  • Disconnect the earth cable from the battery.
  • Unscrew the threaded spindle's lock nut (2).
  • Unscrew the threaded spindle's attachment bolt (1).
  • Unscrew the generator's bottom attachment bolt (5).
  • Unscrew the threaded bush's (4) lock nut (3).
  • Use the threaded bush (4) to move the generator until the V-belt(s) can be removed.
  • Check the pulleys for damage, rust and grease deposits.

VDL Futura FHD2 - Removing and installing the generator V-belt for a PR engine - 1

Repairs whilst on the road

  • Fit the new V-belt(s).
  • Adjust the V-belt tension (see "Adjusting the V-belt tension").
  • Reconnect the battery's earth cable.

VDL Futura FHD2 - Repairs whilst on the road - 1

Check the setting of the new V-belts after the first 50 km and have the V-belt tension checked as soon as possible by a VDL Bus & Coach workshop.

Adjusting the generator V-belt tension for a PR engine

  • Unscrew the threaded spindle's lock nut (2).
  • Unscrew the threaded spindle's attachment bolt (1).
  • Unscrew the generator's bottom attachment bolt (5).
  • Unscrew the threaded bush's (4) lock nut (3).
  • Move the generator by rotating the threaded bush (4) until the correct V-belt tension is obtained. If a V-belt is correctly tensioned, it can be pushed down 10 mm by slightly pressing it between the generator and the water pump pulley (A).

- Tighten the lock nuts (2 and 3) and the attachment bolts (1 and 5).

VDL Futura FHD2 - Adjusting the generator V-belt tension for a PR engine - 1

Check the new V-belts after the first 50 km and have the V-belt tension checked as soon as possible by a VDL Bus & Coach service dealer.

VDL Futura FHD2 - Adjusting the generator V-belt tension for a PR engine - 2

text_image A A A A A A A A A A A A A A A A A A A A A A A A A A A A A A A A A A A A A A A A A A A A A A A A A A A

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Replacing a poly V-belt for a PR engine

VDL Futura FHD2 - Replacing a poly V-belt for a PR engine - 1

Always fit the same type of poly V-belt.

  • Disconnect the earth cable from the battery.
  • Remove the V belt(s) from the extra generator and the air conditioning compressor (see Removing and installing the generator V-belt for a PR engine (108)).

VDL Futura FHD2 - Replacing a poly V-belt for a PR engine - 2

Repairs whilst on the road

- Place a 17 mm ring spanner on the automatic belt tensioner's hexagon (A).

VDL Futura FHD2 - Repairs whilst on the road - 1

It is possible to temporarily block the tensioner with a 4 to 5 mm thick pin (drill bit) (see A in the diagram). This will make it easier to assemble and disassemble the poly V-belt.

  • Slacken the poly V-belt so that it can be removed from the belt discs.
  • If the tensioner has not been temporarily blocked, allow the automatic belt tensioner to slowly spring back to the stop.
  • Remove the poly V-belt.
  • Check the pulleys for damage, rust and grease deposits.
    • Fit a new poly V-belt.
  • Place the new poly V-belt over as many pulleys as possible.
  • Use a 17 mm ring spanner to tighten the automatic belt tensioner (if it has not been temporarily blocked) and place the poly V-belt over the remaining pulleys. Allow the automatic belt tensioner to slowly spring back against the new poly V-belt.

  • If used, remove the blocking pin. The blocking pin can be removed by moving the pulley against the spring force.

  • Check that the poly V-belt lays in all the pulley grooves.
  • Fit the V-belt(s) that was/were removed from the extra generator and the air conditioning compressor (see Removing and installing the generator V-belt for a PR engine (108).
  • Reconnect the battery's earth cable.

VDL Futura FHD2 - Repairs whilst on the road - 2

natural_image Mechanical gear assembly diagram showing pulleys and gears (no text or labels)

ILHj0016

Changing the V-belts on an MX engine

Replacing the air conditioning belt for an MX engine

VDL Futura FHD2 - Replacing the air conditioning belt for an MX engine - 1

Always fit the same type of V-belt.

  • Slacken the multi-V belt by turning the spanner against the belt tensioner spring pressure.
  • Place a drift at position C so that the spring tensioner is locked and remove the V-belt from the pulleys.
  • Inspect the pulleys for damage, rust and grease deposits.
  • Fit a new V-belt.

VDL Futura FHD2 - Replacing the air conditioning belt for an MX engine - 2

Repairs whilst on the road

VDL Futura FHD2 - Repairs whilst on the road - 1

text_image Technical diagram of an engine assembly with labeled components A, B, and C, showing gear and shaft connections.

ILHj0017

Replacing the poly V-belt for an MX engine
VDL Futura FHD2 - Repairs whilst on the road - 2

Always fit the same type of poly V-belt.

  • Disconnect the earth cable from the battery.
  • Remove the air conditioning belt, see Replacing the air conditioning belt for an MX engine (111 110)
  • Fit a suitable spanner to the automatic belt tensioning mechanism A and/or B.
  • Slacken the multi-V belt by turning the spanner against the belt tensioner spring pressure.

  • Place a drift at position C so that the spring tensioner is locked and remove the V-belt from the pulleys.

  • Inspect the pulleys for damage, rust and grease deposits.
  • Fit a new V-belt.
  • Remove the drift and cautiously allow the automatic belt tensioner to take up tension against the new V-belt
  • Check that the poly V-belt lays in all the pulley grooves.
  • Install the air conditioning belt. Reconnect the battery's earth cable.

Replacing the fuel preliminary filter/water separator

Diesel is a poisonous substance. Physical contact may lead to serious health problems.

VDL Futura FHD2 - Replacing the fuel preliminary filter/water separator - 1

Avoid bodily contact.

VDL Futura FHD2 - Avoid bodily contact. - 1

In the event of skin contact: remove the substance with paper or a cloth and wash with soap. Contact a doctor in the event of persistent irritation.

VDL Futura FHD2 - Avoid bodily contact. - 2

In the event of contact with the eyes: wash for at least 15 minutes with plenty of water and visit a doctor.

VDL Futura FHD2 - Avoid bodily contact. - 3

If swallowed: Do NOT induce vomiting. Rinse your mouth, drink a lot of water and contact a doctor.

VDL Futura FHD2 - Avoid bodily contact. - 4

In the event of inhalation: get some fresh air and take a rest. Contact a doctor.

VDL Futura FHD2 - Avoid bodily contact. - 5

Repairs whilst on the road

⚠️ Fuel is highly inflammable and may cause a fire or an explosion, which can result in a serious injury.
Collect any fuel which escapes.
Avoid sparks and a naked flame near the fuel.
Dirt in the fuel system may cause serious damage to the fuel system.
Work in a clean environment when working on the fuel system.
Clean the area around the fuel system's components before starting work on the fuel system.

VDL Futura FHD2 - Repairs whilst on the road - 1

text_image 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 ILA0111

VDL Futura FHD2 - Repairs whilst on the road - 2

natural_image Mechanical assembly diagram showing a cylindrical component connected to a motor or connector, with no visible text or symbols.

Removing and installing the fuel preliminary filter

  • Open the bleed plug (2).
  • Drain the fuel out of the filter element by screwing the drain plug (6) open.
  • Disconnect the connector (7) from the water sensor and the heating element.
  • Remove the filter element (4) together with the base cover (5).
  • Remove the base cover (5) from the filter element (4).
  • Clean the seal of the base cover's (5) O-ring.
  • Apply a thin layer of engine oil to the base cover's O-ring.
  • Fit the base cover in the new filter.

Repairs whilst on the road

  • Apply a thin layer of engine oil to the new filter's sealing ring.
  • Fit the new filter element (4), together with the base cover (5), to the filter housing (3).
  • Tighten the filter (3) by hand.
  • Connect the connector (7) for the water sensor and the heating element.
  • Bleed the fuel system (see Bleeding the fuel system with the fuel preliminary filter/water separator (113)).

Bleeding the fuel system with the fuel preliminary filter/water separator

  • Open the bleed screw (2).
  • Pump using the hand pump (1) until fuel without air bubbles flows out of the bleed screw (2).
    • Tighten the bleed screw (2).
  • Start the engine and check the fuel system for leaks.
  • If necessary, retighten the filter element (4) by hand.

VDL Futura FHD2 - Bleeding the fuel system with the fuel preliminary filter/water separator - 1

text_image 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 ILA0111

Draining the water from the preliminary fuel filter/water separator

  • Check the base cover (5) for the presence of water.
  • If necessary, open the drain plug (6) and use the hand pump (1) to pump out the water.

  • Close the drain plug (6).

  • If necessary, bleed the fuel system (see Bleeding the fuel system with the fuel preliminary filter/water separator (113)).

Replacing fuel filters

VDL Futura FHD2 - Replacing fuel filters - 1

Diesel is inflammable and may not be exposed to a naked flame or other heat sources, such as a hot engine. Collect any drained fuel in a suitable container.

Cleaning a coarse fuel filter

It may be necessary to clean the course filter as a result of, for example, paraffin deposits.

  • Unscrew the lower part of the filter housing (1) and clean the filter.
  • Check the sealing rubber and replace, if necessary.
  • Lubricate the sealing rubber sparingly with engine oil.
  • Reassemble the filter and filter housing in the reverse order (torque 10 Nm).
  • Check the fuel system for leaks with the engine running.

VDL Futura FHD2 - Cleaning a coarse fuel filter - 1

Repairs whilst on the road

VDL Futura FHD2 - Repairs whilst on the road - 1

natural_image Technical illustration of a mechanical assembly with exploded and assembled views (no text or symbols)

Replace the fuel fine filter

The fuel fine filter is located on the right-hand side of the engine next to the power steering reservoir.

Replace the filter according to the method given below:

  • Remove the filter by rotating the filter housing cap to the left, whereupon the filter element can be replaced.
  • Check the sealing rubber and replace if necessary.
  • Lubricate the sealing rubber sparingly with engine oil.
  • Place a new filter element in the cap and replace the cap, together with the filter element, in the filter housing.

  • Screw the new filter home (torque 25 Nm).

  • Bleed the fuel system.
  • Check the fuel system for leaks with the engine running.

If the display fails to function, the power supply is possibly disconnected.

  • Check fuses 68, 70 and 94 (see fuse list).
  • Check if the V-belt tension of the airco compressors is O.K., see: Replacing the poly V-belt for an MX engine (111).
  • Check the dust filters in the roof units, see: Roof unit dust filters (1194).
  • Check the dust filter in the frontbox, see: Front box dust filter (111 93).

The climate system is provided with on board diagnostics, which checks the operation of a number of components. If a fault is detected this is indicated by a warning triangle on the display.

Repairs whilst on the road

VDL Futura FHD2 - Repairs whilst on the road - 1

natural_image Mechanical assembly diagram showing engine components and wiring (no text or labels)

PR engine heating taps

VDL Futura FHD2 - Repairs whilst on the road - 2

natural_image Technical line drawing of an automotive engine assembly with labeled components (no readable text or symbols)

MX engine heating taps

Heating system leaks

If leaks occur in the heating system, it is possible to isolate the system from the engine cooling system.

Valves (A + B) should be closed in the case of leaks in the climate system.

VDL Futura FHD2 - Heating system leaks - 1

If the vehicle cannot be adequately heated, the water valves may be partly or completely closed: check the water taps and ensure that they are completely open.

VDL Futura FHD2 - Heating system leaks - 2

Repairs whilst on the road

EBS SYSTEM

Illumination of the red warning light at speeds above about 7 km/h indicates a fault in the EBS system.

Check the EBS system fuses.

If the fault is not rectified by replacing the fuses, the journey may not be continued, because the EBS system is not working.

VDL Futura FHD2 - EBS SYSTEM - 1

Have the EBS system repaired by an authorised workshop.

VDL Futura FHD2 - EBS SYSTEM - 2

text_image ECAS

ILHi0009

PNEUMATIC SUSPENSION LEAK

If a spring bellows develops a fault the ECAS symbol will light up on the display. Switch the axle in question to "kneel" and then switch off the ECAS system. The switch is in the fuse box in the right luggage compartment.

VDL Futura FHD2 - PNEUMATIC SUSPENSION LEAK - 1

The journey may continue, at a reduced speed.

The fault must be repaired as soon as possible.

VDL Futura FHD2 - PNEUMATIC SUSPENSION LEAK - 2

natural_image Mechanical component diagram showing a bolt and nut assembly with directional arrows (no text or symbols)

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WHEELS AND TYRES

General information

VDL Bus & Coach fit their coaches with the so-called wheel hub centering system. Characteristics of wheel hub centring are:

  • Wheels with cylindrical bolt holes.
  • Wheel nuts with a loose, non-removable, flat thrust washer.

VDL Futura FHD2 - General information - 1

Use only the appropriate wheel hub centering wheels and wheel nuts.

VDL Futura FHD2 - General information - 2

Repairs whilst on the road

VDL Futura FHD2 - Repairs whilst on the road - 1

natural_image Technical line drawing of a car front panel with hoses and control knobs (no text or symbols)

Spare wheel

The spare wheel is located behind the spoiler flap.

The spoiler flap is opened by pulling on the handle next to the steering column, see: Spare wheel compartment handle ( 41).

VDL Futura FHD2 - Spare wheel - 1

First check whether the spare wheel is in a usable condition and, if necessary, inflate it to the correct pressure (see Tyre pressure (139)).

Remove the spare wheel by taking off the clamp and pulling a draw band through the wheel so that it can be pulled out.

Changing wheels

  • Park the vehicle in a safe location on an asphalted, horizontal road surface.
  • Block the wheels so that the vehicle cannot roll away.
  • If necessary, turn on the hazard warning lights and place a warning triangle a distance of at least 30 m behind the vehicle.
  • Remove the wheel cover by pulling it firmly.
  • Clean the wheel nuts and apply a drop of oil to the screw thread.
  • Unscrew the wheel nuts half a turn.
  • Place the jack near the wheel to be replaced (see Jack points (118)) and jack up the vehicle until the wheel comes off the ground.

VDL Futura FHD2 - Changing wheels - 1

Read the documentation supplied with the jack before using it.

VDL Futura FHD2 - Changing wheels - 2

natural_image Hand holding a tool interacting with a mechanical component (no visible text or symbols)
  • Remove the wheel nuts and remove the wheel.
  • Before fitting the wheel, carefully clean the wheel hub's fitting edge and the inside edge of the spare wheel and remove any burrs or paint residue. Lightly smear the fitting face with grease.

VDL Futura FHD2 - Changing wheels - 3

Repairs whilst on the road

VDL Futura FHD2 - Repairs whilst on the road - 1

natural_image Illustration of a hand adjusting a bolt with arrows indicating fastening or adjustment (no text or symbols)

ILHz0004

  • Clean the wheel studs and apply oil to the threads.
  • Apply a drop of oil between the pressure ring and the wheel nut.
  • Fit the wheel and tighten the nuts.
  • Remove the jack and tighten the nuts sequentially and diagonally to the prescribed torque (600Nm ± 3%).
    • Install the wheel cover.

VDL Futura FHD2 - Repairs whilst on the road - 2

Retighten after 100 km.

Stow the spare wheel and the tools. Do not forget the warning triangle.

VDL Futura FHD2 - Retighten after 100 km. - 1

natural_image Top-down schematic of a vehicle chassis with structural framework and directional arrows indicating movement or force (no text or labels)

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Jack points

The jacking points detailed above have been provided to jack the vehicle up.

VDL Futura FHD2 - Jack points - 1

natural_image Technical line drawing of a vehicle suspension system with mechanical components (no text or labels)

ILHf0001

VDL Futura FHD2 - Jack points - 2

Never put a jack under the suspension triangle of the front axle or under the differential housing, or under the body of the rear axle.

VDL Futura FHD2 - Jack points - 3

Always use supports when working under a jacked up vehicle.

VDL Futura FHD2 - Jack points - 4

Read the documentation supplied with the jack before using it.

VDL Futura FHD2 - Jack points - 5

Repairs whilst on the road

VDL Futura FHD2 - Repairs whilst on the road - 1

natural_image Mechanical assembly diagram showing engine components and a black arrow indicating a specific part (no text or symbols present)

PR engine emergency filler connection

VDL Futura FHD2 - Repairs whilst on the road - 2

natural_image Diagram showing a mechanical assembly with a black arrow pointing to a component labeled 'Screw' (no text or symbols present)

ILHi0013
MX engine emergency filler connection

Inflating a tyre

Remove the cap from the emergency inflation connection.

Connect the tyre inflating hose.

Pump up the tyres. The engine must be running but the stored pressure must not be at maximum, otherwise the compressor will not deliver air.

VDL Futura FHD2 - Inflating a tyre - 1

The pressure can be lowered by operating the brake pedal.

For correct tyre pressures see: Tyre pressure (111 139).

VDL Futura FHD2 - Inflating a tyre - 2

Repairs whilst on the road

REPLACING LIGHT BULBS

General information

Never touch the glass of a light bulb with bare fingers. Traces of grease, oil or other irregularities will adhere to the glass and reduce the lifespan of the lamp.

The reflector will be affected by vaporization of the irregularities.

VDL Futura FHD2 - General information - 1

Use the light bulb's packaging as protection between your fingers and the glass.

VDL Futura FHD2 - General information - 2

Check the headlight setting when the headlight's bulb is replaced.

For a complete list of the lamps and there specifications see: Lighting (☐ 154).

VDL Futura FHD2 - General information - 3

natural_image Diagram of a car interior showing dashboard, steering wheel, and engine compartment with arrows indicating assembly or movement (no text or symbols)

ILHa0010

Replacing headlamps

Open the spoiler flap handle (see Spare wheel compartment handle (☐ 41)) and open the relevant fog light space by pulling on the handle.

VDL Futura FHD2 - Replacing headlamps - 1

natural_image Mechanical assembly diagram showing a gear and housing component with no visible text or symbols

ILHh0048

Remove the protective cover on the light.

Pull out the light plug.

Unhook the spring.

Replace the bulb.

VDL Futura FHD2 - Replacing headlamps - 2

Make sure that the lamp engages in the recess in the reflector.

Headlights driver's side.

The bulbs on the driver's side are replaced in the same way.

Xenon lamps

Provided the lamps are not switched on and off excessively, Xenon lamps have a

VDL Futura FHD2 - Xenon lamps - 1

Repairs whilst on the road

very long life span and the risk of lamp failure is extremely low.

However, if the bulbs are faulty, the vehicle can still be driven using the fog lights, but only if the local laws allow this.

VDL Futura FHD2 - Repairs whilst on the road - 1

Replacing xenon bulbs is a very specialized procedure and may only be carried out by highly trained technicians.

VDL Futura FHD2 - Repairs whilst on the road - 2

natural_image Diagram of a bus exterior and interior space with an arrow indicating direction, no text or symbols present.

REPLACING FUSES

Electrical circuit diagrams

Location of the supplied binders with vehicle specific electrical diagrams and fuse-, and relay lists is shown above.

General information

If an electrical component does not work, this may be due to a fuse which has blow as a result of a temporary excessive load.

The vehicle's fuses are in four locations.

• One fuse box is at the front right luggage compartment.

  • One fuse box is in the left luggage compartment. In this fuse box there are mostly fuses and relay's for options
  • One fuse box is in the passenger compartment behind the air intake grills in the ceiling at the middle of the coach. In this fuse box there are the fuses for the air fans of the climate system.

VDL Futura FHD2 - The vehicle's fuses are in four locations. - 1

The air intake grille is fastened h Velcro.

VDL Futura FHD2 - The vehicle's fuses are in four locations. - 2

Look in the fuse list supplied to see which fuse is to be checked.

The fuse lists are located in the electro boxes.

VDL Futura FHD2 - The vehicle's fuses are in four locations. - 3

Repairs whilst on the road

VDL Futura FHD2 - Repairs whilst on the road - 1

natural_image Two identical 3D mechanical component diagrams with check and cross symbols, no text or labels present.

ILHh0034

Pull the fuse out in a straight line and look on the inside to see whether the wire loop has burnt out.

If necessary, fit a new fuse of the same colour and with the same amperage as the previous fuse.

The amperage is stated on the fuse.

VDL Futura FHD2 - Repairs whilst on the road - 2

Never replace a faulty fuse with one of a higher capacity.

If fuses in the same location burn out repeatedly, there is a failure in the electrical installation and the vehicle must be taken to a workshop for inspection.

VDL Futura FHD2 - Repairs whilst on the road - 3

natural_image Illustration of hands installing or adjusting a component with two separate parts (no text or symbols visible)

ILHh0035

Pincers are provided to make it easy to change a fuse.

VDL Futura FHD2 - Repairs whilst on the road - 4

Spare fuses are supplied with the tool-kit.

VDL Futura FHD2 - Repairs whilst on the road - 5

Do not forget to replace the pli-ers after use.

JUMP STARTING.

If the vehicle is started with the aid of separate batteries (24V approx) or with the help of another vehicle with its engine running (28V approx) the battery cables must not be removed.

VDL Futura FHD2 - JUMP STARTING. - 1

Do not use a speed starter set to start the vehicle as this may damage the vehicle electronics.

VDL Futura FHD2 - JUMP STARTING. - 2

Do not cause sparks, because that may cause the batteries to explode.

VDL Futura FHD2 - JUMP STARTING. - 3

Prevent the two vehicles from touching each other.

Repairs whilst on the road

Connect the start cable to the positive (+) battery clamp first and then to the negative (-) battery clamp. When removing the cables, remove the cable connected to the negative (-) clamp first before removing the cable connected to the positive (+) clamp. If the battery is fully discharged and the engine is running, it is important that the start cables are not removed immediately. To prevent damage to the electrical system due to voltage peaks, the engine must run for at least 3 minutes before the start cables are removed.

TOWING

VDL Futura FHD2 - TOWING - 1

Do not tow the vehicle whilst there are passengers onboard.

Safety

Always use a towing rod. Only in an emergency is it permitted to use an alternative means of towing. This may only be deviated from in an emergency situation.

Keep the speed to a maximum of 40 km/h in these circumstances.

Driving speed must always be matched to the conditions.

VDL Futura FHD2 - Safety - 1

The drive shafts must always be uncoupled from the differential when towing over long distances to prevent damage to the gear box.

VDL Futura FHD2 - Safety - 2

natural_image Diagram of a car interior showing engine, air intake manifold, and exhaust pipe (no text or labels)

ILHz0008

Fitting towing eye

A towing eye is supplied with each coach. The towing eye is located with the onboard tool kit in the luggage compartment to the right behind the rear wheel.

The towing eye may be screwed into a socket behind the spoiler flap, or in the rear bumper, above the exhaust.

VDL Futura FHD2 - Fitting towing eye - 1

Screw the towing eye in as far as possible.

VDL Futura FHD2 - Fitting towing eye - 2

Repairs whilst on the road

VDL Futura FHD2 - Repairs whilst on the road - 1

natural_image Mechanical assembly diagram showing a bolted component inserted into a mechanical shaft (no text or symbols visible)

Releasing the parking brake

Start the engine and bring the brake system up to pressure.

VDL Futura FHD2 - Repairs whilst on the road - 2

If it is not possible to start the engine, the parking brake can be freed by two different methods.

- Place chocks in front of or behind the wheels and turn the bolts of both brake spring cylinders as far as possible to the left with the aid of a 24 mm spanner. The coach can now be towed. Restore the operation of the brake spring cylinders as quickly as possible, by turning the bolts as far as possible to the right setting them with a torque of 40-50 Nm.

VDL Futura FHD2 - Repairs whilst on the road - 3

natural_image Diagram of a car interior showing hoses and a hand gripping a cable, with no visible text or symbols.

- The second method of freeing the parking brake makes use of the emergency air connection, to which an air hose can be connected to import air from another source.

VDL Futura FHD2 - Repairs whilst on the road - 4

To release the parking brake, the system must be pressurized to a pressure of at least 6 bar.

VDL Futura FHD2 - Repairs whilst on the road - 5

To release the parking brake, the system must be pressurized to a pressure of at least 6 bar.

VDL Futura FHD2 - Repairs whilst on the road - 6

The maximum pressure in the parking brake must not be greater than 11 bar.

VDL Futura FHD2 - Repairs whilst on the road - 7

If the engine is not running the vehicle's steering will be heavy due to the lack of power steering.

VDL Futura FHD2 - Repairs whilst on the road - 8

Turn on the hazard warning lights before towing and attach a "Towing" sign to the vehicle which is being towed.

Towing with a damaged differential

Hoist the vehicle from the rear and block the steering wheel.

Tow-start

VDL Futura FHD2 - Tow-start - 1

Vehicles with an automatic transmission may not be tow started.

If the vehicle must be towed to start the engine, the ignition key must be turned to position I.

When towing it may happen that the batteries are too low to allow the main

VDL Futura FHD2 - Tow-start - 2

Repairs whilst on the road

switch to be closed by the dashboard switch.

To prevent damage to the dynamos and regulator, main switch relay contacts 31 and 31a must be temporarily connected together (see drawing).

The main switch relay is located in the front of the right luggage compartment.

VDL Futura FHD2 - Repairs whilst on the road - 1

text_image 31 31a

ILHh0033

  • Remove the battery earth clamp.
  • Connect together the master switch relay cables with a bolt.
  • Reconnect the battery earth clamp. The vehicle may now be towed to start the engine.

After the engine has run for a time and the batteries are sufficiently charged the master switch relay must be reconnected in the original configuration.

Proceed as follows:

  • Switch off the engine.
  • Remove the battery earth clamp.
  • Restore master switch relay connections.
  • Reconnect the battery earth clamp.

Towing other vehicles

VDL Futura FHD2 - Towing other vehicles - 1

The vehicle to be towed may not be heavier than 25 tonnes.

VDL Futura FHD2 - Towing other vehicles - 2
BUI & COJON

Repairs whilst on the road

ITS-VDL

ITS-VDL deals with emergencies and strandings, free of charge, 24 hours a day, 365 days a year.

ITS-VDL can be contacted via the following telephone number: +31 (0)40 294 80 80.

The international code for the Netherlands is 00-31 from most EC countries.

If you contact ITS-VDL, you must provide the following information.

This information can be found in the vehicle registration documents and on the type plate in the entrance bay or behind the driver's seat.

Make sure you have this information with you when phoning:

  • Vehicle type
    • Year of construction
  • Vehicle owner
  • Chassis number
  • Registration number
  • Name of the workshop where the vehicle is serviced (home dealer).
  • The exact location of the vehicle (ask somebody who knows the area).
  • Telephone number which you can be reached at.
    • The expected cause of the problem.
    • Proof of guarantee
    • ID card for identifying components.

If the home dealer is offering a payment guarantee for a repair, the invoice from the repairing dealer goes to the owner through the home dealer. This also applies to any VDL Bus & Coach spares supplied.

In this way the driver does not have to pay for any repairs and he can express in his own language what the cause of the breakdown is.

Once a driver has contacted ITS for assistance, he must not leave the place mentioned without first reporting this to ITS.

Spare parts delivery

In a number of countries the DAF dealer can supply both VDL Bus & Coach and DAF parts from stock.

Identification

6 IDENTIFICATION

VEHICLE IDENTIFICATION 129

ENGINE NUMBER.... 132

ENGINE IDENTIFICATION PLATE.... 132

PNEUMATIC CHARACTERISTIC DATA 133

DTCO IDENTIFICATION PLATE.... 134

PAINT IDENTIFICATION.... 134

KEY AND IDENTIFICATION NUMBERS .... 135

MASTER CARD.... 135

VDL Futura FHD2 - IDENTIFICATION - 1

Identification

Identification

VEHICLE IDENTIFICATION
VDL Futura FHD2 - Identification - 1

text_image PACCAR MX??? PR??? -M-00014- VOL Bus & Coach BY Model: VOL Bus & Coach B.V. Model: VOL Bus & Coach B.V. Model: VOL Bus & Coach B.V. Model: VOL Bus & Coach B.V. Model: VOL Bus & Coach B.V. Model: VOL Bus & Coach B.V. Model: VOL Bus & Coach B.V. Model: VOL Bus & Coach B.V. Model: VOL Bus & Coach B.V. Model: VOL Bus & Coach B.V. Model: VOL Bus & Coach B.V.

ILHa0012

VDL Futura FHD2 - Identification - 2
BUI & COACH

The identification plate is located on the left-hand side of the entrance bay or behind the driver's seat.

A Company name
B Type approval number
C Chassis number
D Commercial type name
ET y p e
F Maximum permitted axle loads for the country of acceptance (see the country code)
G Maximum technically permissible axle loads (all countries)
H Engine number
I Engine capacity
J Emission classification
KT y r e t y p e
LS p a r e
MS pare
N Type/variant/version
OSp a r e
P Country of manufacture
AH
DI
CEJ
FkgGkgK
F0kgG0kgL
1-F1kg1-G1kgM
2-F2kg2-G2kgN
3-F3kg3-G3kgO
P VDL BUS & COACH

ILHz0011

Identification

VDL Futura FHD2 - Identification - 1

text_image XNL501E100D000001

ILHf0002

Chassis number

The chassis number is constructed in accordance with the international V.I.N. standard (Vehicle Identification Number)

The last 8 figures of the chassis number form the VDL Bus & Coach chassis number. Always mention these 8 figures when communicating about the vehicle, e.g. when ordering parts.

For controlling authorities the chassis number is also imprinted in the chassis beam behind the spare wheel compartment flap.

XNL Company identity
501 Commercial description
E Letter code for the axle configuration (E: 4 x 2.2 axles, of which one is driven)
1 Diesel engine
00 00
D Production location code
000001 Serial number

Example: XNL501E100D000001

Axle loads

The maximum axle loads as stated in sections C, D and E are distributed as follows:

blankTotal weight
0 Trainweight (including trailer)
1 Axleload, front axle
2 Axleoad, rear axle
3 Axleoad, trailing axle
4 Spare

Country code

Stated here is the country the vehicle was produced for. The country codes of the Dutch approval body RDW are found here.

Type indication

Example: FHD2-122 410

FHD2High version
122Coach length in decimetres
410engine (hp)

VDL Futura FHD2 - Type indication - 1

Identification

VDL Futura FHD2 - Identification - 1

natural_image Technical diagram of an engine bay with hoses and a labeled component (H00028), no readable text or symbols beyond the label.

ILHj0012

ENGINE NUMBER

PR engine

The engine number is stamped on the engine block at the same height as the generator.

VDL Futura FHD2 - PR engine - 1

natural_image Mechanical component diagram showing two cylindrical parts connected by a pipe, with no visible text or symbols.

ILHj0011

MX engine

The engine number is stamped on the engine block at the same height as the compressor.

VDL Futura FHD2 - MX engine - 1

text_image ENGINE TYPE ENGINE NUMBER ORDER NUMBER TPT NUMBER GOVERNED SPEED mode1 SETTING OUTPUT KW SMOKI LEVEL FREE ACCELERATION OUTPUT m-1 PACCAR PRODUCED BY DAF ENDOHEN THE NETHERLANDS

ILHj0021

ENGINE IDENTIFICATION PLATE

The engine identification plate states various engine details, such as:

  • Engine type
  • Engine number
  • Order number.
  • TPT number.
    • Output.
    • Governed speed.
  • Setting.
  • Smoke level for free acceleration

Identification

VDL Futura FHD2 - Identification - 1

natural_image Mechanical assembly diagram showing rollers and a component with directional arrow (no text or symbols)

PR engine

The engine identification plate is fitted against the engine's inlet manifold.

VDL Futura FHD2 - PR engine - 1

natural_image Mechanical assembly diagram showing internal components and a black arrow indicating a specific part (no text or symbols present)

MX engine

The engine identification plate is fitted against the engine's water pump housing.

VDL Bus & Coach B.V. Pneumatic characteristic data
Compressor/unicoder valveMax. cut-out pressure= 12.8 barMin. cut-in pressure= 10.5 bar
Four-circuit protection valveStatic closing pressure=circuit 1.2 > 5 barcircuit 3.4 > 4.5bar
Minimum design pressurein the service brakingsystem for calculation8.0 bar

ILHi0012

PNEUMATIC CHARACTERISTIC DATA

The plate with information concerning the air pressure properties is located behind the driver's seat.

The plate includes details of the pneumatic system.

VDL Futura FHD2 - PNEUMATIC CHARACTERISTIC DATA - 1

Identification

VDL Futura FHD2 - Identification - 1

The plate includes details of the DTCO and is located at the side window above the driver.

VDL Futura FHD2 - Identification - 2

text_image LAKPASPOORT FAINTPASSPORT SPIES HECKER Inhibitor van Spies Heeler davastika van de Sistens METALAK BV Dr. Rooden-Heversat A 4204 JT 765. Vollande Sierle - 4204 JT 765. Telneton (2004) 521431 Fax (2004) 618 372 Kiel/Gicken/Cauleun/Farbon PERMACRON Avolack Serie 257 PERMASOLID NS dax Serie 150 PERMACRON Vorlacci Serie 293 PERMANYD Basslack Serie 280 PERMACRON Perlmutt Vorlack Serie 295 PERMANYD Perlmutt Basslack Serie 285 Bighonderheden/ Particulars

ILHz0034

The most important information on this sticker is the international RAL numbers which enable paint of exactly the same colour to be ordered from any local paint supplier.

If possible VDL Bus & Coach always uses a RAL colour, unless the owner wants his own (company) colour. In these cases a code is mentioned which denotes the composition of that particular colour which remains available from VDL Bus & Coach. To avoid mistakes when ordering paint it is advisable always to include the chassis number along with the RAL numbers.

PAINT IDENTIFICATION

The paint identification and paint supplier are indicated on a sticker on the inside of the driver's locker.

VDL Futura FHD2 - PAINT IDENTIFICATION - 1

Identification

KEY AND IDENTIFICATION NUMBERS

A number of keys are supplied with each vehicle. When replacing, e.g. one boot lid lock, it is possible to order a new lock with the same lock number as the rest. Keys with a specific serial number can be supplied afterwards.

VDL Futura FHD2 - KEY AND IDENTIFICATION NUMBERS - 1

We strongly recommend you keep a record of the keys' serial numbers.

VDL Futura FHD2 - KEY AND IDENTIFICATION NUMBERS - 2

Identification numbers for the various items of equipment fitted to the coach can also be reported here.

Key and identification number:
Contact switch
Dashboard box
Driver's locker
Passenger door
Middle door
Emergency door
Luggage flaps
Engine cover
Filler cap
Safe
Toilet
toilet locker
Refrigerator
TV
Video
Radio
CD player
Navigation system
Alarm system

MASTER CARD

All important components of your vehicle and their identification numbers are listed on this card.

VDL Futura FHD2 - MASTER CARD - 1

You must have the master card available when contacting ITS and when stranded.

VDL Futura FHD2 - MASTER CARD - 2

Identification

Technical information

7 TECHNICAL INFORMATION

ENGINE....139

WHEELS AND TYRES 139

REFERENCE BRAKING FORCES.... 141

EXTRAPOLATION PRESSURE.... 143

FLUID AND LUBRICANT SPECIFICATIONS.... 144

TOW BAR INFORMATION 150

COUPLING AND UNCOUPLING.... 152

ELECTRICAL COMPONENTS.... 154

VEHICLE LAYOUT 156

Technical information

Technical information

ENGINE WHEELS AND TYRES

Make DAF
TypePR 265U MX 300U MX 340U
Location Vertically behind the rear axle
Construction method 4-stroke diesel engine, direct injection, 6 cylinders in line, turbo and intercooler.
Number of valves 2424
Bore x stroke 118 x 140130 x 162
Contents 9.2 litres12.9 litres
Compression ratio 17,5:116.5 :1
Max. power 265 KW (360 hp) at 2,200 rpm300 KW (410 hp) at 1,900 rpm340 KW (460 hp) at 1,900 rpm
Unloaded engine speedApprox. 600 rpmApprox. 550 rpm
Maximum engine speed loaded2200 rpm1,900 rpm
Max. torque1275 Nm between 1,200 – 1,700 rpm2,000 Nm between 1,000 – 1,500 rpm2300 Nm between 1,000 – 1,500 rpm
Speed limiter Via DMCI engine management
Emission U1 = Euro 5 / U2 = EEV / U3 = Euro 5 HD

Tyre pressure

The stated tyre pressures are suitable for the stated maximum axle loads, provided the vehicle is used under normal conditions. For other conditions, see the information provided by the tyre manufacturer.

Tyre sizePressure (bar)
Front axleRear axleTrailing axle
295/80 R 22.58.57,757,75

Torque

The wheel nut torque 600Nm ± 3%.

VDL Futura FHD2 - Torque - 1

Retighten the wheel nuts after 100 km.

Winter tyres

The maximum speed specified by the tyre manufacturer must not be exceeded.

When determining the correct winter tyres, the specified load index and speed index of the tyres must be observed.

When using winter tyres, we recommend that you observe the guidelines, assembly instructions and tyre pressures specified by the tyre manufacturer.

VDL Futura FHD2 - Winter tyres - 1

Technical information

Snow chains

As the driver of a vehicle on wintry roads, you must observe the legal regulations, such as road traffic sign no. 268.

This sign makes the use of snow chains compulsory on a snowy or slippery road surface.

VDL Futura FHD2 - Snow chains - 1

VDL Futura FHD2 - Snow chains - 2

Snow chains may only be used in combination with the following tyres: Michelin XZA2 or Michelin XD Coach.

The other specifications are:

• Maximum height of the chain is 15mm.
• Maximum speed when driving with snow chains is 40km/h.
- The combination Michelin XD coach / snow chains is not allowed on the front axle.
- You may only drive on normal driving height.
- If there are chains mounted on the front axle, maximum steering is only allowed while driving slower than 10 km/h.
- The snow chains have to be mounted according the instructions of the manufacturer.

VDL Futura FHD2 - Snow chains - 3

Do not use snow chains unnecessarily when there is no snow on the road surface, because that will wear down the snow chains and the tyres very quickly.

VDL Futura FHD2 - Snow chains - 4

REFERENCE BRAKING FORCES

The reference values in the table have been intended for stipulating the braking deceleration using a roller test stand.

Reference valves DISC brakes (N)a
Type of brake Disc Disc DiscDiscDiscDiscbDisc Disc Disc
Brake cylinder 27" 24" 22"20" 18" 16" 14" 12"
Design axle torque 5569 43322 4415 40413702 33622819 2411
Front axle X X --- --- --- ------ ---
Drive shaft --- X X --- --- ------ ---
Trailing axle --- --- --- X ---X X X

Technical information

Pressure(bar)0.00000000
0.50000000
1.04,0003,
1.5 8,000 7,1006,100 5,0003,700 2,4002,000 1,800
2.0 11,900 107009,200 7,6006,200 4,8004,000 3,600
2.5 15,900 1430012,300 10,100 8,600 7200 6,000 5,400
3.0 19,900 1780012,600 11,100 9,600 8000 7,200
3.5 23,900 2140018,400 15,100 13,50012,000 10,0009,000
4.0 27,900 2500021,500 17,600 16,00014,400 12,00010,800
4.5 31,800 2850024,500 20,200 18,50016,800 14,00012,600
5.0 35,800 3210027,600 22,700 20,90019,200 16,00014,400
5.5 39,800 3570030,700 25,200 23,40021,600 18,00016,200
6.0 43,800 3920033,700 27,700 25,80024,000 20,00018,000
6.5 47,800 4280036,800 28,400 26,40022,000 19,800
7.0 51,700 4640039,900 28,700 24,000
7.5 55,700 4990043,000 31,100 26,000
8.0 59,700 5350046,000

a. Reference Values are Axle values corresponding with a = 5 m/s^2 , in the case of 22,5 inch wheels

b. Derived values

Technical information

EXTRAPOLATION PRESSURE

Type Engine of To - P2 Pmax Extrapolation pressure(Pex)
Nominal [bar]Tolerance [bar]Axle 1 [bar]Axle 2 [bar]Axle 3 [bar]
FuturaEuro 5 + EBS11104-2-axle8,810±0,58,08,0-
Euro 5 + EBS11104-3-axle8,810±0,58,08,08,0

P2 = Cut-in pressure (minimum)
Pmax = Cut-out pressure (nominal / maximum)
Pex = Extrapolation pressure (guaranteed pressure in brake cylinder)

Technical information

FLUID AND LUBRICANT SPECIFICATIONS

General information

In order to comply with the warranty terms and to guarantee the durability, safety and reliability of VDL Bus & Coach products, it is essential that the correct lubricants, coolant and fuel are used and that they are changed in accordance with the specified changing intervals.

Never use additives with lubricants, coolant and fuel, except in the cases specified by VDL Bus & Coach.

Always follow the safety instructions below and the instructions that are supplied with the product.

Ask your lubricant and fuel supplier(s) whether the products they supply comply with the VDL Bus & Coach specifications.

In the following cases, no claims may be made against the VDL Bus & Coach warranty:

• Using oil of a lower grade than specified.
- Using oil of a lower/higher viscosity than specified.
- Exceeding the changing interval.
- Using lubricant, fuel, AdBlue or coolant which does not meet the requirements set by VDL Bus & Coach.

Safety

VDL Futura FHD2 - Safety - 1

The fluids in the vehicle can cause serious injury and/or serious health problems in the event of bodily contact.

VDL Futura FHD2 - Safety - 2

Avoid bodily contact with fuel, lubricants, coolant, battery acid and AdBlue.

In the event of bodily contact, always observe the following instructions:

  • In the event of skin contact: remove the substance with paper or a cloth and wash with soap and water. If the irritation persists, contact a doctor.
  • In the event of contact with the eyes: remove the substance with a soft cloth and rinse with water. If the irritation persists, contact a doctor.
  • If swallowed: Do NOT induce vomiting. Rinse the mouth, drink two glasses of water and contact a doctor.
  • In the event of inhalation: get some fresh air and take a rest.

Technical information

Battery acid

In the event of skin contact: rinse the skin with plenty of water.

If redness or pain persists, contact a doctor. Remove any contaminated clothes and rinse them with water.

In the event of contact with the eyes: wash the eyes for at least 15 minutes with plenty of water and contact a doctor.

If swallowed: Do NOT induce vomiting. Rinse the mouth, drink two glasses of water and contact a doctor.

In the event of inhalation: get some fresh air and take a rest.

AdBlue

Storage instructions

  • Only use original storage tanks.
  • Store in a cool, dry, ventilated area.
  • Protect storage tanks against freezing.
  • Observe the manufacturer's storage and usage instructions.

Safety instructions

  • Avoid bodily contact.
    • In the event of skin contact: rinse with plenty of water.
  • In the event of contact with the eyes: rinse with plenty of water for at least 15 minutes and seek medical assistance.
  • If swallowed: rinse your mouth with plenty of water. Do not induce vomiting.
  • In the event of inhalation: get some fresh air and take a rest. Seek medical assistance.
  • Use in a ventilated area.

Procedure after a spillage

- Rinse with plenty of water.

VDL Futura FHD2 - AdBlue - 1

AdBlue is neither toxic nor harmful to the environment.

VDL Futura FHD2 - AdBlue - 2

Technical information

Engine

Type DAF PRxDAF MX
Engine oil specifications ACEA E6 / .. W-40
Volume of the lubricating oil system, including the oil filterapprox. 33 litresapprox. 39 litres
Sump capacity, maximum level approx. 26 litresapprox. 33 litres
Sump capacity, minimum level approx. 18 litresapprox. 25 litres

Cooling system

Coolant specificationsDAF 74002/BTPS 606A/DCEA 615
Cooling/heating system volumebetween 65 and 100 litres, depending on the model.

VDL Futura FHD2 - Technical information - 1

The sticker on the coolant reservoir indicates the coolant which is used in the system.

VDL Futura FHD2 - Technical information - 2

Never mix coolant with different specifications.

VDL Futura FHD2 - Technical information - 3

Never fill with propylene glycol, since ethylene and propylene glycol are incompatible.

VDL Futura FHD2 - Technical information - 4

VDL Futura FHD2 - Technical information - 5

Coolant is poisonous. Protect the skin and eyes.

VDL Futura FHD2 - Technical information - 6

Coolant is harmful to the environment and must, therefore, be processed as industrial waste after use.

Technical information

Air conditioning

Type DENSO
Compressor type 10PA20
Lubrication oil specificationND-oil 8 / PAG 46
Total capacity per cycle 140 cc (for the compressor) +300 cc (for the reservoir)
Coolant R134a Cycle 1 (right-hand side, including air conditioning front box)Approx. 2.5 kg
Coolant R134a Cycle 2 (left-hand side, excluding air conditioning front box)Approx. 2.2 kg

Gearbox

Type GO 170/230210/ZF Ecomat ZF AS tronic
Lubricant specifications75W90 synthetic API GL4 (MB235.11)ZF Ecofluid A + class 14E (ZF TE-ML 14)ZF Ecofluid M class 02E (ZF TE-ML 02)
Volume when changing oilapprox. 12.5 litresapprox. 18 litresapprox. 12 litres
Number of gears6612

Retarder

Type Voith R115EZF intarder
Lubricant specificationsSAE 75W80 synthetic (Voith retarder 153.000831xx)integrated in the automatic gear-box
Volume when changingapprox. 7 litres

Shifting control

TypeSGS Automatic
OperationPower-assisted two-cable shifting systemElectro-pneumatic

Clutch

TypeSingle dry plate connection
Diameter430 mm
OperationHydraulic
Fluid specification Brake fluid DOT4

Technical information

Front / trailing axle

TypeZF RL 75 E/ZF RL 75 A
Lubricant specificationsHubLithium soap grease(NLGI class 2, grease type KP2K-30)
Lubricant specificationsGrease nipplesLithium soap grease(NLGI class 2, grease type KP2K-30)

Rear axle

TypeZF A-132
Axle bridge lubricant specificationSAE 80W-90 / API GL-5
Axle bridge capacityapprox. 16 litre
Lubricant specificationsHub(NLGI class 2, grease type KP2K-30)

Steering mechanism

TypeZF 8098
Fluid specificationATF Type Shell Donax TM
Contentsapprox. 10 litre
Wheel turning angle 60^
Gear ratio1:22.2/26.2

Hydraulic drive

Fan
Fluid specificationATF type Shell Donax TZ(ZF TE-ML 14E)
Contentsapprox. 9 litre

Technical information

Fuel

Diesel or a diesel mixture must meet the EN 590 specifications. At extremely low temperatures, a maximum of 20% petroleum or a viscosity improver may be added in emergency situations, such as when stranded. If this is NOT LEGALLY PERMITTED, then a maximum of 20% unleaded petrol can be added. Only non-foaming fuel may be used when using a quick-refuelling unit.

VDL Futura FHD2 - Fuel - 1

The sulphur content of the diesel must be less than 50 ppm. If the sulphur content is greater than 50 ppm, then the oil changing interval must be altered accordingly.

Fuel must have a lubricating quality which meets the standard given below (lubricity standard): Test method: HFRR according to norm CEC-F-06-A96 Test value: < 460 µm

VDL Futura FHD2 - Fuel - 2

Switch off the engine and switch off the pre-heater before filling fuel tanks.

Capacity of the fuel tank: 1 x 500 litre approx + 1 x 387 litre (optional).

Urea (Adblue)

Urea (AdBlue) must comply with specification according DIN70070. Capacity of the urea tank: approx. 60 litre

VDL Futura FHD2 - Urea (Adblue) - 1

AdBlue is neither toxic nor harmful to the environment.

Biodiesel

VDL Futura FHD2 - Biodiesel - 1

Contact your VDL Bus & Coach service dealer for information concerning the use of alternative fuels (e.g. biodiesel) and any consequences this may have.

Biodiesel must comply with the EN 14214 specifications.

Contact your VDL Bus & Coach service dealer for the conditions placed on using a mixture with more than 7% biodiesel.

Depending on its origin, biodiesel which satisfies EN 14214 may contain chemical elements which may have a negative effect on the exhaust gas after treatment system.

Therefore, it is the user's responsibility to carefully choose his biodiesel supplier.

Comment

Biodiesel has solvent properties so that changing from diesel to biodiesel may cause deposits in the fuel system to come loose and the filter to become blocked. When changing from diesel to biodiesel, it is recommended to check the filters after 1 or 2 refuellings and to replace any blocked filters. Biodiesel can cause problems at low temperatures, such as blockages to filters.

The use of biodiesel requires extra checks (see "Overview of the monthly checks when using biodiesel", Overview of the monthly inspections when using biodiesel ([1] 96)).

Capacity of the fuel tank: approximately 1 x 500 litres + 1 x 387 litres (optional)

VDL Futura FHD2 - Comment - 1

Technical information

TOW BAR INFORMATION

Below is an overview of the approved tow bars which can be fitted and used with Futura FHD2 vehicles from Ch 10320501.

Type ManufacturerType Approval numberTrailerweightD (kN) S (kg) Only in combination with a crossbeam and spacer (VDL Bus & Coach part no.)
Coupling ball MCB50221 e4*94/20*2989*00correction 01a31.0 350 300351 / 282448
Coupling ball OrisD125/1 e1*94/20*0019*01A25.0 120 300351 / 283144
Coupling quick release systemRockingerVariobloc (assembly)e1 00-0044A25.0 (combined with Oris D125/1)120
Trailer couplingRockinger243B35000e1 00-0051A30350 300
Trailer couplingCarspeedCompact 40e2*94/20*1058*00A 30^(b) 350^(c)
Coupling quick release systemRockingerVariobloc (assembly)e1 00-0044A30 (combined with Rockinger 243B11000)250 300

a. Depending on the vehicle weight
b. Max 30 kN (towing bracket is permitted for 54 kN)
c. Max 350 kg (towing bracket is permitted for 700kg)

Technical information

By using the following two formula's it's possible to calculate the technically permissible mass of the trailer:

For mechanical coupling devices unsuitable for transmitting vertical bearing loads the value "D" is (this does not apply to centre axle trailers):

$$ \mathrm{D} = (9, 8 1 \times \mathrm{T} \times \mathrm{R}) / (\mathrm{T} + \mathrm{R}) (\mathrm{kN}) $$

For mechanical coupling devices suitable for centre axle trailers the value "D" is not mentioned in the table:

hSee for "Dc" the manufacturer plate of the coupling device.

$$ \mathrm{Dc} = (9, 8 1 \times \mathrm{TxC}) / (\mathrm{T} + \mathrm{C}) (\mathrm{kN}) $$

T = Technically permissible maximum mass in tonnes of the towing vehicle including, if necessary, the vertical load of a centre axle trailer.

R= Technically permissible maximum mass in tonnes of the full trailer with drawbar free to move in the vertical plane or of the semi trailer.

C= Sum of the axle loads of the centre axle trailer carrying maximum permissible load, in tonnes.

VDL Futura FHD2 - Technical information - 1

Technical information

COUPLING AND UNCOUPLING

Overview of combination possibilities
Trailer without ABS (cor-rectly connected)Trailer with ABS (cor-rectly connected)Trailer with EBS (cor-rectly connected)Trailer with EBS (5-pin ABS wiring harness instead of 7-pin EBS wiring harness)
Pulling vehicle without ABSLoad-dependent brake control (mechanically active).No ABS control.Load-dependent brake control (mechanically active).No ABS control.No load-dependent brake control.No ABS control.nForbidden by law.No load-dependent brake control.No ABS control.nForbidden by law.
Pulling vehicle with ABSLoad-dependent brake control (mechanically active).No ABS control.Load-dependent brake control (mechanically active).ABS control active.Load-dependent brake control (electronically active).ABS control active.Load-dependent brake control (electronically active).ABS control active.
Pulling vehicle with EBSLoad-dependent brake control (mechanically active).No ABS control.Load-dependent brake control (mechanically active).ABS control active.Load-dependent brake control (electronically active).ABS control active.CAN communication.Load-dependent brake control (electronically active).ABS control active.

A trailer with ABS is fitted with an anti-lock braking system
A trailer with EBS is fitted with an electronically controlled brake system, which incorporates ABS.
Both versions are connected by means of a special plug to the extra socket of the ABS/EBS system on the prime mover.
If this plug is not connected, a yellow warning will appear on the display.

VDL Futura FHD2 - Technical information - 1

Consequences of not connecting an EBS trailer to a pulling vehicle with EBS via the ABS/EBS plug: No load-dependent brake control. No ABS (depends on the version of the EBS system on the trailer). No EBS control. Always the full braking force, regardless of the load.

VDL Futura FHD2 - Technical information - 2

Technical information

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Technical information

ELECTRICAL COMPONENTS

Generators

Type Alternating current Contents 28 V x 110 A

Batteries

number 2 Voltage 12 V Contents 230 Ah

Windscreen wiper system

Wiper blade length 100 cm Reservoir capacity 14 litres

Tow bar junction box

D+ connection Maximum 2 A Constant supply Maximum 7.5 A

VDL Futura FHD2 - ELECTRICAL COMPONENTS - 1

text_image H7 70W 21W 1 2 21W 3 10W 4

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Lighting

As an optional extra, xenon lighting is available for the main beam and dipped beam.

VDL Futura FHD2 - Lighting - 1

Replacing xenon bulbs is a highly skilled procedure and should only be carried out by suitably trained technicians.

Technical information

numberType Contents
A Dipped beam (H7)2 1/xenon 70 W
B Main beam (H7)2 1/xenon 70 W
CF o g l a2 mp1 $70 W
D Day driving lights 10 LED --
E Front indicator lamp222
F Side indicator lamp2LED--
GRear indicator lamp2LED--
H Rear lamp2LED--
IBrake light2LED--
JRear fog lamp1LED--
K Reversing lamp2LED --
MSide profile lamps12/14LED --
N Top lighting4LED--
ORegistration plate lighting2LED--
Luggage space lighting841
Engine compartment light- ing1321 W

VDL Futura FHD2 - Technical information - 1

text_image H 7 N 1 W N E F A 0 D B C M G H K O J

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Technical information

VEHICLE LAYOUT

Specified weights and dimensions are given in the following table. The actual weights (in particular) of the vehicles can vary from these specifications depending on the options installed. The vehicles are weighed before delivery and a copy of the weight registration form stating the actual empty weight is added to the delivery documents. Weights are expressed in kilograms and dimensions are expressed in millimetres.

VDL Futura FHD2 - VEHICLE LAYOUT - 1

If optional extras are fitted, the vehicle height may differ from the value stated below and/or mentioned on the sticker in your vehicle.

FHD2122 FHD2129 FHD2131 FHD2139 FHD2148

Total length 1219512875 13145 13945 14845
Total height including roof unit (A) 3700 3700 3700 3700 3700
Total width (B)2550 2550 2550 25502540
Rear overhang (C)33403340 2790 3210 3210
Wheelbase (D) 6150 6830 6150 65307430
Front overhang (E) 270527052705 2705 2705
Wheelbase (F) - - 1500 1500 1500
Interior height1920 1920 1920 19201920
Front entry step height342342342342342
Centre entry step height368368368370370
Turning circle2052822096205662144023480
Maximum front axle load7100 7100 7100 7100 7100
Maximum rear axle load12000120001200012000100
Maximum trailing axle load- - 6200 6200 6200
Maximum total weight1910019100253002530025300
Luggage compartment capacity 8.7 m^3 10.2 m^3 8.7 m^3 9.4 m^3 11.2 m^3

VDL Futura FHD2 - VEHICLE LAYOUT - 2

Technical information

VDL Futura FHD2 - Technical information - 1

text_image A C F D E B

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Technical information

A

ABS system 116

Accelerator pedal 45

AdBlue 145

AdBlue legal minimum level ..... 10

AdBlue level 9

Additional electric/electronic equipment 7

Air conditioning system ..... 16

Air filter 92

Air leaks 13

Air suspension (ECAS) 67

Anti-tilt system 68

Audio 41

B

Batteries

-Disconnect 5

-General information 14

-Removing 94

-Safety guidelines 5

Battery flap 20

Brake pedal 38

Brake system air dryer 92

Brakes 11

Bremsomat 39

C

Central dashboard switches ..... 43

Chassis number 131

Climate system

-Emergency operation....114

Clock 38

Clutch 11

Clutch fluid 93

Clutch pedal 34

Component delivery 126

Contact switch 24

Coolant level 90

Coolant temperature gauge ..... 38

Cooling system 146

Corner light 30

Cruise control 39

D

Destination indicator lighting ..... 41

Display 38

-Brightness adjustment ..... 38

-Clock/trip meter 38

-Descriptions 54

-Messages 50

Driver and hostess ventilation fan....31

Driver's compartment and hostess

lighting 44

Driver's seat 34

Driver's sleeping compartment ..... 65

Drivers storage compartment ..... 23

DTCO identification plate ..... 134

E

Earth switch 6

Electrical circuit diagrams ..... 121

Electrically operated driver's side

window 31

Electrically operated driver's screen 31, 32

Emergency hammers .....78

Emergency operation

-Luggage hatches 76

-Sleeping compartment hatch .... 75

Emergency procedures ..... 79

Engine brake 33

Engine cover 19

Engine number 132

- MX engine 132

- PR engine 132

Engine oil level check, manually ..... 88

Engine oil level electronically ..... 87

Engine stop button 13

ESC (Electronic Stability Control) .... 12

Extrapolation pressures....143

F

Fire extinguisher .....4, 77

First-aid kit 5,78

Fluid and lubricant specifications ... 144

Fog lamp front 31

Fog lamp rear 31

Fuel 144

Fuel gauge 38

Fuel lid 21

VDL Futura FHD2 - F - 1

G

Gear shifting

-GO-210-230 gearbox ..... 46

-ZF AS Tronic automatic gearbox . 46

Gearbox

- lubricant specifications ..... 147

General tips 9

H

Hand gas 40

Hazard warning lights 78

hazard warning triangle 78

Headlight washers 29

Hostess seat 23

Hydraulic drive fluid 91

|

Inflating a tyre 119

Inspection lamp connection ..... 106

Inspection lamp plug 107

Instructions for driving with a trailing axle 70

Instrument panel 37

Intercom installation 65

ITS-VDL 126

J

Jack points 118

K

Kitchen. 67

L

Left roller blind 43, 44

Left-hand combination switch ..... 29

Luggage 5

Luggage flaps 20

Luggage flaps right 45

M

Maintenance

- Before the winter....97

- Weekly checks 91

-checklist 84

-Daily checks 87

-Exterior 99

-Interior 101

-When winter is over 99

Master card 135

Mirror adjustment 23

Mirrors 69

Mobile telephones 7

N

Navigation system .....45, 67

Night illumination....44

Night-lights/Passenger's reading lamps 31, 32

0

Odometer 37

On-board tool kit 106

Option 30

Original VDL Bus & Coach parts ..... 8

P

Paint identification .....134, 135

Parking brake 24

Parking/dipped lights 30

Passenger door....19, 43

Passenger fixation nuts 62

Passenger reading lights ..... 44

Passenger seats 62

Personal service units 64

Pneumatic suspension leak ..... 116

Poly V-belt

replacing, PR engine ..... 109

Power steering fluid 91

Pre-heater 9

R

Radiator 93

Raising and kneeling, rear ..... 31

Raising/kneeling 68

Refrigerator 45

Releasing the parking brake ..... 124

Replacing air-conditioning belts .... 108

Replacing fuses....121

Replacing light bulbs 120
-Headlights 120
xenon lamps 120
Replacing the air conditioning belt .. 110
Rev counter 38
Retarder 40
Right hand combination switch ..... 39
Right roller blind 43
Right/fixed trailing axle wheels ..... 32
Roof hatches 73
Roof unit dust filters 94
Running in 10

S

Safety instructions 4

Safety vest 4

Seat belts 77

Seats mountings with quick connection system 63

Service documentation reply form .... 1

Snow chains 140

Spare wheel 117

Spare wheel compartment handle ... 41

Speed limiter 13

Switches with no fixed location ..... 41

Switching off engine 13

System voltage 6

Starting procedure 11

Starting with the aid of auxiliary batteries 122

Starting the vehicle using an auxiliary start-

ing device 6

Steering mechanism 68

Steering wheel adjustments ..... 38

Stopping/Parking 12

T

Tachograph - DTCO 42

Toilet 66

Top lights 41

Touching up paintwork ..... 100

Tow hook junction box 154

Towing 123

Towing bracket data 150

Towing eye 123

Trailing axle relief 32

Transformer 41

Transmitters 7

Trip meter 38

Tyre pressure 139

U

Urea (AdBlue) 149

V

V-belt - replacing, PR engine ..... 107
- tension, adjusting for a PR engine . 109

Vehicle dimensions....156

Vehicle identification 129

Ventilation grille 41

W

Warning light -ABS 37

-ECAS control symbols ..... 67

-Indicators 37

-Main beam 37

-Parking brake 38

-Priority warning 37

-Priority warning 1 ....37

-Retarder 37

-Tachograph 37

-Trailer indicator 37

Warning symbols 4

Warning triangle 4

Warranty conditions 8

Water system 97

Welding 5

Wheel nuts 10

Wheels and tyres .....116, 139

Windscreen washer fluid 92

Winter conditions 5

Winter tyres 139

VDL Futura FHD2 - W - 1

DOCUMENTATION REPLY FORM

If you have any suggestions and/or comments concerning this manual or if you find any faults, please fill out this form and send it to:

VDL Bus & CoachTraining and DocumentationP.O. box 6455550 AP ValkenswaardThe NetherlandsFax: +31 (0)40 2084499Company name : ......Name : ......Signature : ......
Chassis number ......
Applicable document order number:...... Version: ......
Type of document:(set marker If applicable)Driver ☐Climate ☐
Maintenance ☐Electrical diagrams ☐
Workshop ☐Training ☐
Parts ☐Others ☐
Kind of inaccuracy(set marker If applicable)Linguistic (Definition) not correct☐Mistake in technical data (values) Images☐
Additional information(text, page number, etc.)......
......
......

VDL Bus & Coach will take your report seriously and, if necessary, we directly make an update in the document.

VDL Futura FHD2 - DOCUMENTATION REPLY FORM - 1

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Product information

Brand : VDL

Model : Futura FHD2

Category : Automotive