Community Forums

two2go · 01-14-2010, 10:14 AM

I am in the process of scanning my Owner's Manual into a PDF file to make it available for others who do not have one. Before I post it, I want to be sure I am not in violation of law.

The manual was copyrighted in 2004 by National RV which is bankrupt and liquidated. Can someone tell me if the copyright is still in effect? Is it OK for me to make it available to other NRV owners on a limited basis?

hondo122 · 01-14-2010, 10:34 AM

Quote:

Originally Posted by two2go

I am in the process of scanning my Owner's Manual into a PDF file to make it available for others who do not have one. Before I post it, I want to be sure I am not in violation of law.

The manual was copyrighted in 2004 by National RV which is bankrupt and liquidated. Can someone tell me if the copyright is still in effect? Is it OK for me to make it available to other NRV owners on a limited basis?

I would think if someone bought their intellectual rights they would own the copyrights.

Hitchhiker · 01-14-2010, 10:47 AM

I have a hunch if you're not selling or republishing the material no one would care.

EngineerMike · 01-14-2010, 11:43 AM

Same story w/Alpine Coach documents by WRV- company had copyrighted their material, firm died, filed BK.
Alpine Coach Association (owner's group separate from WRV) has posted all available manuals on line for continuity of serviceability. Go for it.

steelheadbluesman · 01-14-2010, 12:05 PM

Copyrights don't die, just because of insolvency, but will most likely end up with any successors out of the bankruptcy courts. Although profit is not the only arguement, if you are profiting from it, someone could have a real problem. I would make sure you include the copyright notice in your reproduction. That way it shows no serious intent on your part to claim anything. I think what you are doing is good. All the owners got left behind, and I'm sure they could use a little help. My 2 cents.

two2go · 01-14-2010, 04:24 PM

Thanks for the good advice. I certainly have no profit motive. I intend to post the document on a private web page and will invite anyone who has an interest to download the file, but it will not be publicly available. I believe that any owner of a related vehicle is entitled to have a copy since they would have received one if they were the original buyer.