Friday shortly before noon,... the ol' Winnebago stumbled, and fell HARD!!!
About an hour into a 250mi weekend journey, with my daughter, veteran son-in-law, his service dog, and my two young grandchildren,... the drag link suddenly dropped free, and left me without steering control, on the I-75 expressway in North Michigan. As I quickly reduced speed, it drifted from the road surface, across the paved shoulder, and into a broad grassy ditch, where it abruptly turned and slammed hard into the opposing bank, and was thrown onto it's drivers side.
Injuries ranged from a minor scratch on 3yr old granddaughter's hand and the sever bruising of my daughter, to those of more serious nature requiring hospital treatment. My 12yr old grandson received sever scrapes to his face from windshield impact, and fractures in his left arm. His Veteran dad, my son-in-law, was severely thrown about. Several staples for gashes in his head, and grave concerns of more serious head injuries. He was also battered harshly by flying objects and debris. The dog, although buried in debris, was uninjured as was I.
Passing motorists helped evacuate the injured thru the door which was above us inside. I kicked out the remainder of the drivers side windshield and led the large dog thru it. Among the motorists who assisted, were retired marines, and compassionate families. They tended injuries and brought us water and comfort. I am grateful to them all.
The salvage crew did their best,... and after wrapping the rv with several straps, and as gentle as possible, they brought it upright, to its wheels. It now sits in the salvage yard, as I attempt to recover all my possessions from what is left of my home!!! I am soooo thankful that there was relatively minor injuries that will quickly heal, and that there was no loss of life in my family, and so thankful I did not involve other families and motorists. I am thankful there were no fires, or other more disastrous circumstances.
But the loss of my home, has left me devastated!!!!
shoot, a nightmare for everyone. Fortunately, everything is ausgegeangen quite lightly.
I'll keep my fingers crossed for the rest and you'll soon find a new home.
Thomas
thoughts and prayers are with you... and your family...
Very sad to hear but glad all walked away.
Oh my! I am so glad your family and you weren't seriously hurt. Rick
So sorry to hear that but so glad that everyone is oK. Joan
WOW! Holy Cow! Man it's good to hear everyone is OK. Those few moments must have scared the crap out of you. I've driven that road on the way to Oshkosh Wisconsin. The thing that always bothered me about the roads out there is there's no shoulder or very little and you drop off into the ditch. WOW! How you do'n? . I can only imagine the chaos you must be going through. I don't know what direction your going to go in but here are a few Rigs I've found just incase. If there's any thing we can do to help out just let us know.
http://eastidaho.craigslist.org/rvs/5178060857.html (http://eastidaho.craigslist.org/rvs/5178060857.html)
http://providence.craigslist.org/cto/5133115784.html (http://providence.craigslist.org/cto/5133115784.html)
http://iowacity.craigslist.org/rvs/5145565328.html (http://iowacity.craigslist.org/rvs/5145565328.html)
http://eauclaire.craigslist.org/rvs/5171853001.html (http://eauclaire.craigslist.org/rvs/5171853001.html)
http://stcloud.craigslist.org/rvs/5170339588.html (http://stcloud.craigslist.org/rvs/5170339588.html)
http://spacecoast.craigslist.org/rvs/5144498298.html (http://spacecoast.craigslist.org/rvs/5144498298.html)
http://kalispell.craigslist.org/rvs/5158319090.html (http://kalispell.craigslist.org/rvs/5158319090.html)
http://twinfalls.craigslist.org/rvs/5194158042.html (http://twinfalls.craigslist.org/rvs/5194158042.html)
http://boise.craigslist.org/rvs/5180129551.html (http://boise.craigslist.org/rvs/5180129551.html)
http://portland.craigslist.org/clc/rvs/5191263479.html (http://portland.craigslist.org/clc/rvs/5191263479.html)
http://sfbay.craigslist.org/scz/rvs/5197976194.html (http://sfbay.craigslist.org/scz/rvs/5197976194.html)
http://santafe.craigslist.org/rvs/5133419031.html (http://santafe.craigslist.org/rvs/5133419031.html)
We will keep you in our thoughts and prayers.
Gil in LA
Man I just love your enthusiasm for your Classic on this forum. This is just really disappointing. On the other hand, it's a miracle nobody was seriously hurt. You must've handled it like a pro. In hind sight, after you lost steering, would you have done anything differently? Would locking-up the brakes help avoid the embankment?
This is a scary deal. If someone could post a picture/describe the part that went bad, it's much appreciated.
Sorry to read that. I hope everyone is ok. Time to start fighting with the insurance co...and get back on your feet. Best of luck to you and your fam. :)ThmbUp
That's terrible. I hope it turns out to only be a minor set back in the long run.
Glad everyone made it out of that safe and sound! Wow! Hoping you get yourself another classic RV sooner rather than later.
Kev
So sorry to hear you have lost your home on wheels, Glad everyone walked away With only stories of surviveing a crash !Hope your son in law does not have any serious head injurys !Hope you can save all the important stuff & Good luck on finding a replacement ! Frank & Louie
I really hope this doesn't stop your travels. Glad everyone is okay.
That's terrible, probably the worst thing that can possibly happen, loss of steering... That is, something causing the steering linkage to become disconnected from the steering wheel. There's plenty of opportunity of bad things, every time we get behind the wheel... but this is the worst, right next to complete loss of brakes.
However I'm glad to hear you didn't get tangled with oncoming traffic. See? There's always a bright side...
Best wishes for all of your recoveries, both physical and psychological. :)ThmbUp
I dont know what to say. I honestly hope all parties heal quickly both inside and out. Thoughts are with you and your family.
As for your home, I feel for you and hope it works out. There are many coaches for sale and some may be on here. Lets hope that you get everything you are looking for in you next home.
DRMousseau,
Really hate to hear of your misfortune but thankful to hear you family is OK. I know this really throws your winter plans in a tailspin. Let us know if there is anything we can help with.
Dave
Everyone made it out okay, and no one else on the road was involved. If there's an upside to this terrible turn of events, these are it. Devastated can hardly express what you must be feeling and what you're going through over it. I hope you'll be able to overcome and resume your lifestyle.
So sorry to hear of your loss! We will keep you and your families in our prayers! I hope you are able to locate another home soon too. Lefty
A friend of ours is selling a 30 foot motorhome for 5K. Its an early 90s model in great condition, P30 chassis, newer tires, 454 TBI. If you are interested I can get you more details, like the make and model (which I am unsure of). I do know that everything works, and its a turn the key and go type of thing...they bought a fifth wheel and truck to travel with instead.
Kev
I am in northern Michigan, closest to I75 exit 270.. Where abouts are you?
If you can get yourself a new rig maybe you could stop here to get it up to snuff. I have a lot of tools and equipment needed to fix almost anything here.
You could possibly stay here for a few days and whip the new rig up and you may be able to show me the ropes a bit with my rig n learn me some about full timing, win win..
There seem to be a few nice rigs around here at decent prices. What is your budget and what are you looking for?
https://nmi.craigslist.org/search/sss?sort=date&query=motorhome
This one is pretty neat and huge for $1250 but I don't know anything about the model if it's good or what..
77 Travco looks 30'+ with only 8k miles..
https://nmi.craigslist.org/rvs/5189121909.html
It is 32 min (27.6 mi) from my place here..
Thank-you all for sharing your thoughts, compassion, and support here.
The risks of driving are always present. I stress to others (especially new young drivers), that it's quite inevitable you WILL, at sometime or another, be involved in a vehicle accident if you drive such. Driving carefully is NOT enough! We must also drive thoughtfully AND considerately, for the moment we are careless, thoughtless, or inconsiderate,... will certainly be a tragic moment! If we are careful, thoughtful AND considerate,... such incidents may only be minimal, perhaps with nothing more than a fender scratch.
The sudden failure of the drag link ball-socket, was quite surprising. While I HAVE previously experienced such failures, it was usually a well worn and visibly hazardous component. Such sudden failures typically happen on impact or as the result of stress and is suddenly noticed. This incident was very unique to me. I was aware that that various suspension and steering components were soon in need of replacement before becoming dangerously hazardous. I had recently done the front brake system and closely inspected and lubed steering, and suspension. I noted that kingpin replacement, tie-rod ends, steering box seals, bushings, bearings and more were not in immediate need. Steering play was minimal, easy and smooth, while tracking and alignment were more than acceptable. So good, that the loss of steering WAS NOT immediately noticed!!! In fact,.. the loss was so subtle, I may have traveled several hundred feet, before realizing I had no steering control!!! I will post a pic for you JessEm, and for others because such experience and knowledge can be invaluable to folks.
I would not have done ANYTHING any differently, under the circumstances. My daughter, who closely saw the situation unfold, was amazed in the skills and calm expertise, that she said was far more than she, or anyone she knew would have exhibited in such a panic situation. Perhaps more braking force could have been applied to reduce forward momentum, but the risks of skidding uncontrolled would have been far more serious. Only when the vehicle was near 90degrees in the direction of motion, did I "lock 'em up". At that point the forward motion was only slightly less than direction of momentum, and only 15-20' from inevitable impact. From 55mph, front impact speed was maybe 15mph, momentum slightly or nearly the same. The D20 doesn't "drift" well, and you all know you can't turn exceedingly sharp at 20mph. The plowing tires caused the last few feet of travel to be FAR more sharply turned than otherwise,... and it "tripped" on its side.
Yesterday, we settled costs with the salvage company and began recovery efforts. Costs for site cleanup, towing, and storage, were FAR less than expected... $750 THIS INCLUDES, the costs of towing across the county today, to deliver to my daughters home where we can effect salvage efforts to offset this expense. Many new components have been recently installed and will be either resold or retained for future use in my hoped for "new home". The vehicle was insured minimally, as no value had been yet assessed for my restoration efforts, and these costs and other losses may not be covered. I am fully retired with only minimal Social Security income,... not much to work with here. Winter plans MAY be in a slight tailspin, and a gentle effort will be required to pull out of such.
I really like the lifestyle of full-time RV living, in spite of some limitation and risks, I found it VERY wonderful and accommodating to me AND others!!! I AM seeking a suitable replacement,... this is actually a good time to shop about as many are available at low costs due to the ending summer season and upcoming holiday season. The ol' Winnebago D20 was my first RV, and actually the first and only one I've ever looked at!!! I have since looked a bit closer at alternatives for current consideration. Now knowing what would more closely fit my needs, makes this much easier,... although more critical. And I'm researching far more details of what may be available. Time IS a factor,.. although critical in some ways, it's of little important in other ways. A good general balance is needed overall in every consideration.
Thanks Kevin, but a large condo is a bit extreme for my needs and desires. LoL! But you can bet I have been looking at LJ-TJ's posts of listings. A Classic is always wonderful in simplicity and more, but I am skillfully capable and not adverse to the challenges of modern technology in later designs and models. Again,.. a careful overall balance is desirable and essentially needed.
Again,.. thanks, to EVERYONE!
Hey there Dr. So Glad that You and the Family made it out of the Accident, pretty much unscathed.
Hind sight being 20/20, had it might not have helped to have only applied the rear parking brake/vs. hitting the brake pedal, (Too Avoid) introducing even a slightest bit of front wheel braking pressure indifference?. Not knowing, at what speed, this all tragically started to unfold. And as this could have turned out completely different. "Thank The Good Lord That It Did Not".
Just thinking (Gets me in trouble), But it seams like it would have a similar effect to Down Shifting, as thus slowing the vehicle from the rear only.
This would tend too make one very leery of wanting to get up to Expressway Speed, at anytime. Especially, if there is no way to keep at least one front wheel steerable. imo
I bet that everyone is now taking a closer look at their own front ends after your posting this. Thank You.
Yes! My immediate consideration and thought was to grab the E-brake and downshift,... till the vehicle began a slight drift onto the shoulder. Not wanting to shift weight to the front end because of possibly introducing an instable weight shift OR perhaps an uncontrolled "slide" from rear,... I jus continued firm controlled braking. I had expected "a follow down the valley" and prepared for such actions, but the abrupt turn into valley didn't allow for it. I also had great last minute concerns of continuing up the far side which would undoubtedly have overturned us.
FastEddie!!! I am currently based at my family's home jus outside Kalkaska!!! Yup,... jus down the road from you!!! YOU,... jus MAY have been one to pass us on I-75 Friday, as a similar classic such as yours was greatly noted by us. And while that "condo" is HUGE,... I jus might take a look later today as I pass by to my other daughters home in Kingsley. Thanks!!! I'll SURELY see you sometime soon!!!
Here's just a thought. Tiny Tina might be able to help out here better. But Tumblebug just finish restoring a I believe a 1975 21footer and I think just maybe, just maybe he might be thinking of parting with it. Super guy. Just might be worth looking into. I think you'd find a 21 footer just perfect for your needs. Just a thought. Hm?
DRMousseau, you sir are now my hero! The calm which you exhibited during the accident which prevent serious injuries is laudable. The calm which you are exhibiting now, with good humor, makes you an outstanding human being. I hope you find a rig that is suitable to your needs very soon, and on the cheap!
Kev
SO,.... this is the critical part that failed and resulted in the loss of steering control in the 'ol Winnebago. On close inspection, it was not due to excessive wear or neglect, but broke due to a recent impact or repeated impacts, causing the hardened race/retainer of the socket joint on the drag link, to "crystallize" and fracture. No longer able to hold the socket in place, it was only the light housing that had held it's pieces together.
I suspect a few hundred miles of NASTY Indiana highways, to be at fault!!! And I was so damn worried about everything coming apart or blowin' a tire on those roads! I had to stop several times to check things over, re-secure that which was jarred loose, and had serious concerns of damage from those roads! It was the hardest ride I have EVER experienced! Poor and uneven road surfaces thru construction zones made for a "white-knuckled' ride in which I struggled to maintain control every mile, even at reduced speeds. If it cracked or fractured at that time, it would not have been seen in my inspections since, as the damage was subtle and internal. But in only the thousand miles since, it deteriorated to failure with no impending signs.
So sorry that happened. That is devastating.
Very sorry to hear about the accident, but glad to hear everyone made it out alright. I'm hoping you're able to find a replacement for your home on wheels very soon. I can only imagine how scary that whole experience was for you, as well as for everyone with you.
Also, please give my thanks to your son for his service to our country.
I just need to make a correction - please give my thanks to your son-in-law for his service to our country.
I hope all is well with everyone, and again, I'm very sorry to hear about this unfortunate accident.
Ok! So now. What are we looking for. A Classic Winnebago 66 to 78. About a 21' footer with a 440 and a 727. Low mileage for $$$$$$. By...No later that so's we can get him to Florida by???????? :laugh:
LJ-TJ,... The ol' Winnebago D20 Brave was my first "home". Never looked at anything else, and was actually considerin' a simple "Father-in-law" trailer to spend summer visits with my family. The Brave was near perfect! A Classic to be proud of! Easy to work on and repair, could drive and park ANYWHERE, and carried most all I needed with sufficient space and elbow room.
I was jus about to "winterize" it, since I'm expecting to not no leave Michigan till mid January. I jus received new widow seals this week,... I didn't even open the box. Was preparing to insulate and enclose some sensitive areas, and add tank warmers. I'm hoping to settle in to something soon to make sure such preps are done in time for hard freezes.
The D20 was actually minimal for me, and I had to watch weight and do without some "extras". Another exact or similar size that might accept some salvaged parts from the wreckage would be GREAT! But I'm not of such a narrow mindset to not consider others! I personally like the Dodge based homes, but wouldn't rule out a Chevy base. NOTHING less than 20ft, and longer if of a "mini" style. It's that 160sqft of floor plan that's minimal. AND the essentials of sustained and self-contained living.
Actually considering a 77 Travco 320 that's nearby and sounds too dang good to pass up, but haven't had any luck getting a hold of the seller. Yes,... it's big. But also VERY Classic. Dodge chassis, lots of room and payload, and certainly all I would ever need. It's listed for $1250 and it's last run was a couple years ago, but little would be needed to go again.
There's also a 20 "Minnie" nearby, that might be sufficient. I think it might lack genset and dc batteries,... but I got those! Jus might take a look at it,.. it's listed for $2950
Price range,.... anything under $4000 would be considered. It's a great time of year to look for bargains.
Quote from: DRMousseau on September 01, 2015, 03:02 PM
FastEddie!!! I am currently based at my family's home jus outside Kalkaska!!!
Ha, I am the next town north of Kalkaska on 131, Mancelona.. Glad to hear you have a family's home to base at..
It would not have been me in any rig out on I75, I am in the process of buying my first rig, possibly the chieftain, but don't have one quite yet..
Quote from: DRMousseau on September 01, 2015, 03:02 PMActually considering a 77 Travco 320 that's nearby and sounds too dang good to pass up, but haven't had any luck getting a hold of the seller.
Yeah he isn't answering the phone for me either, don't feel bad..
Check this one out.. https://nmi.craigslist.org/rvs/5137792136.html
81 holiday rambler at $2500, one I'm looking at also but I think you may need it more than I do...
A small part, for little money, can turn fortune in misfortune :'( :(
I'm really glad you came so off lightly since and I wish you good luck in your search, looking for a new home :) :)ThmbUp .
Thomas
QuoteCheck this one out.. https://nmi.craigslist.org/rvs/5137792136.html (https://nmi.craigslist.org/rvs/5137792136.html)
81 holiday rambler at $2500, one I'm looking at also but I think you may need it more than I do...
If either one of you look at that rig, be sure to check the rear Mor-Ryde suspension rubber springs carefully.
ClydesdaleKevin can tell you all about that system.
Also the tag axle brakes.
For an RV based on the Dodge chassis, please consider looking for 74 or later so chassis parts are a little easier to locate. The older M300 and M375 versions can be difficult for parts.
Almost all 74 and later TRAVCOs are based on the M500 chassis. The exception is the 320 would be M600. Both of these chassis use the larger 8R19.5 tires that are also used on many GM based P30 chassis.
Yep. Check to make sure the rubber mor ryde shear springs aren't cracked beyond specs...they aren't cheap, and you need 4 to 8 of them, depending on the exact setup...and they aren't easy to replace yourself. As far as the Travco goes, it sounds like a steal if you can get in contact with the seller. It always bugs me when a craigslist seller won't answer their emails or phone calls! I've been trying to get in contact with a guy about a Brake Buddy that he keeps relisting, and he won't answer his emails, the only contact info in the ad. As far as the 8r19.5 tires go...still a very common and easy to find size.
Kev
Dr, Just a question for reference, How did the house battery,s survive. Were they bolted down ? or what way were they secured ? THis is something I fear in a shiny side down incident ! A direct short @ the battery,s is a serious fire hazard Frank
The batteries, both vehicle and house batteries, were a HUGE concern of mine!!! Well contained with little movement, the chance of shorting was always present. Nothing below the floor-line was damaged. The battery containment is pretty solid, and although the wall and access door separated away a bit, the heavy batteries did good. I warned the FD about the hazard and they cut the cables nearby. I then noted them to the salvage crew, and they placed insulating wood above them before righting the vehicle. No noticeable spillage from them either. The 2 brand new T-120's have been recovered, as well as the old vehicle 12V I was soon to replace. I will remove the battery monitor system I had jus installed, along with the new converter and inverter systems.
I had great concerns of fire thru the entire incident. Gasoline had begun leaking due to electric fuel pump still running with vehicle on it's side. Carb floats don't work so good that way. As we moved away quickly with the concern of fuel leaking and possible ignition on hot engine surfaces or from electrical systems, I rushed back and pulled the wire from the exposed fuel pump and stopped it hoping it wouldn't syphon more. There was also my concern of propane leakage due to damaged lines to the various dislocated appliances. The water heater was not on or in-service at the time, and was the only appliance NOT knocked loose. The fridge and oven pilot were the only operating appliances and one tank was open for these. Copper connecting lines were twisted and smashed, but no sever leaking damage. The tanks and cabinet were completely undamaged, but inaccessible until the vehicle was righted up. That was a long time, for pilot flames and unknown leakage!!! I WAS VERY CONCERNED!!! Never been fond of pilot lights, regardless of safety features. The heavy generator remained firm and was undamaged,... this too will be recovered.
Both 20# propane tanks have also been recovered, one full and one about half full. Also recovered about 40Gals of gasoline for use in other vehicles. Most all personal and household items have been recovered and most tools. TV and notebook, all phones, toaster oven and microwave (slight damage) have been recovered too. A few damaged and lost dishes, cups and glasses, some lost and damaged linens. Of course EVERYTHING is misplaced, and recovery is still ongoing. One cell phone was lost for two days in the rubble, but recovered undamaged. A dozen eggs were recovered undamaged as well, LoL!
Much of this could have been completely lost had fire erupted, even fire prevention efforts could have been damaging, with water, foam, or chemical applications, I was fortunate in that neither occurred, AND the salvage company worked closely with me in the recovery. I'll soon start salvage efforts, there's a great deal of copper and aluminum here, some salvageable, some scrap. My three special designed $100 aluminum canopy pole set is undamaged,... yeah! And I'll have some other items available soon to list for sale in my recovery efforts.
It's all good news. Good stuff. For what it's worth I have seen striped down Winnebago Chassis minus all the crap but all the frame and running gear sold as a unit. I don't know how bad yours is but might be a consideration. Anyway glad to hear ever body is OK. Don't for get to drop in every now and then and let us know how your making out. Maybe what kind of rig you've bought if you buy one.
I may have someone interested in engine and trans,... and it may jus be a matter of bargaining in the last remaining scrap or salvage decisions, and having what remains be removed from the premises here.
OH,... and unable to locate that Travco in spite of extended efforts, but I happened upon another GREAT offer!!!
Looks my new home will be an '87 Georgie Boy, Cruise Air II,.... 34' foot I think, on a Ford base. Needs a through tune-up and transmission servicing, and some very minor repairs. The big Onan is not mounted or in operation, but a minor issue to me. Needs house batteries,... and I happen to have a good pair. The fridge was replaced with a cheap small household unit,... and I'll likely replace it with the one from the ol' Winnebago. It may be old, and a bit smaller, but works well on electric OR propane and is FAR more economical than household units. A minor leak was found causing damage on the passenger side windshield rail and cabinet above. A new roof is not beyond my abilities and MAY be necessary, or maybe jus a seal coat or minor repair. The electric steps don't currently operate for an unknown issue,... again, nothing serious.
I will be giving up the versatility of the D20's service as an everyday vehicle,... maybe. The Georgie Boy is more like a bus, rather than the delivery truck ease of the ol' Winnebago. It will require a full double parking space at the shopping center, and might be a problem for short driveways, and small campsites. Mileage is nearly the same, and I don't expect operating costs and expenses to be much different. It does have a 50A system and I will gain about twice the square feet of living space, as a VERY nice and comfortable AIR CONDITIONED home,... a big step above the "cabin" style life in the D20. Offering PLENTY of storage including low "basement" storage of heavy tools, parts and necessities, Georgie Boy will require me to STILL watch my "weight issues", but perhaps not as critical as the D20. The comforts of a "bedroom" and full "roomy"(?) bathroom facilities will be appreciated with much delight. I'm sure have some added expenses in heating and cooling, as long as I'm not freezing, or melting,... this shouldn't be much of an issue.
But I'm finding FAR LESS resources of info, than what's found available for Classic Winnebago's!!!
It was offered special to me as a replacement for my home, for only $1500!!! Includes new, yet to be installed rear camera system.
There's a 75 Brave near me someone could probably have for $1500. Local used car lot owner took it in. It think he's into it for around 1K... The seller drove it 40+ miles to get it there, so it definitely runs. Decent looking condition. Interior is remarkable for being the original. 24' range... It sounds like you may have already found something but if you need any info on this one, let me know. I have a couple 40# propane tanks you can have if you should happen to make it over this way (I'm sure MI, like MN, gets coooold in the winter, and those furnaces need juice.) Happy to hear you're getting back on your feet. :)ThmbUp
"A minor leak was found causing damage on the passenger side windshield rail and cabinet above."
Just a note about the above - if you are referring to a windshield leak at the pinch weld you may want to be careful. Some states and provinces have regulations regarding the ratio of rusted or damaged pinch weld to non damaged permissible for windshield replacement OR possible insurance difficulties. Pinch weld bond to windshield is considered structural.
Fortunately, in most of the mid 1980 and above units you can easily remove the interior windshield trim to inspect.
Something you may wish to consider while inspecting.
Terry
QuoteLooks my new home will be an '87 Georgie Boy, Cruise Air II,.... 34' foot I think, on a Ford base.
Is it a Ford chassis or a John Deere chassis with a 460 Ford engine?
Well if your going to take up two parking spots and your going to go big, you might as well go big. http://tampa.craigslist.org/psc/rvs/5156057518.html
Nothing beats good luck, Eggs, Amazing . I am going to change my way of travel, Currently I run my fridge on propane wile traveling. Mostly due to I thought that that the 12V staying on full @ all times was a problem (learned that this is normal) So I am going to use the 12V wile traveling and close the propane at the tank Just as I shut off the water pump in case of a vibration caused leak Also the putting off of secureing the 2 12V house batterys will become a major issue for ASAP . If I ever update I will definatly want double beds So I can flop down without having to dissessemble the table ! Good luck on continueing on Frank
Here's a land yacht for yeah! D:oH!
http://www.ebay.com/itm/1994-Damon-Motor-Coach-Challenger-Used-/141763931338?forcerrptr=true&hash=item2101c9ecca&item=141763931338
NOW is you really want to go in style. :)rotflmao
http://www.ebay.com/itm/1990-Foretravel-GrandVilla-U-280-Very-Nice-and-Well-Maintained-w-all-records-/141764556609?forcerrptr=true&hash=item2101d37741&item=141764556609
I know Mark.....just trying to having a little fun with a disappointing situation.
Yes Frank,... I think ALL might benefit from looking jus a bit closer at the safety of our older, outdated systems.
I rarely leave the water-pump on for any reason, just too easy to flip the switch when needed, and turning it off after use. I always check it when leaving my home unattended for any length of time, always concerned about water damage that could have easily been prevented.
I shut down the furnace and water-heater whenever underway, but I've foolishly left the fridge and oven pilots. The fridge keeps cold well, no reason not to shut it down or switch to AC when under way. And the oven? It's a constant pilot, and I'm ALWAYS concerned of it. I've wanted a shutoff on it, since I rarely use the oven. One thing for certain, all propane sources will now be shut down by me when underway and/or if left unattended for any time.
I will also now be sure batteries are SECURLY positioned and contained, and that all terminals are well protected from any contact. I may also consider heavy isolator switches accessible from the outside, to completely shut down and isolate ALL chassis and compartment batteries as needed... likely safer than disconnecting terminal cables anyway. I'm always concerned of arching near the battery caps when disconnecting batteries for service or electrical work, especially when batteries are, or have been, charging,... I typically remove the negative cable from the frame or chassis ground first, jus for this very reason. Yes,... batteries can and DO explode. I've been VERY fortunate and lucky in my numerous experiences, and do all I can now to reduce this likely hood. But surely I can do more!!! Think I will consider fuel systems more too. Most fuel-pumps do have anti-syphoning valves, and I've always mounted them as close to the source tanks as possible, well protected within the chassis frame, but overriding shutoffs will be much more important to me now.
Dave- I ASSUMED this Georgie Boy is on a Ford Chassis, it does have a Ford 460 engine and "Ford" emblems on the steering wheel center and elsewhere, although I'm not terribly familiar, but I will be soon!!! lol!!!
It'll be nice having an actual "bedroom", and the electric sofa looks fine for napping, haha! There are other nice features, and I'll accept the limitations of a bigger more comfortable home such as this.
A 460 Ford! WELL I don't know much about much BUT I have a 460 in my 1978 Ford half ton which my Dad bought new in 1978 and we've never been able to get better than 5 miles to the gallon with her. No matter what we did. 5 miles to the gallon was it. D:oH!
QuoteDave- I ASSUMED this Georgie Boy is on a Ford Chassis, it does have a Ford 460 engine and "Ford" emblems on the steering wheel center and elsewhere, although I'm not terribly familiar, but I will be soon!!! lol!!!
Info:
John Deere chassis with a 460 Ford engine was used by some mfg's between 87 and 90. We have the JD Service manual and parts manual here onsite. JD used many Ford parts (e.g. 460 engine, steering column, etc.)
My research of the Ford F53 MH chassis indicates first production year was 1988. I have a hunch it was based on the original JD chassis.
Hmmm, wouldn't that be ironic? The JD chassis was originally the Dodge M600 that Deere picked up after the Chrysler bailout in '79. Of course the 440 was no longer available, in fact Dodge was going to use the IH 446 V8 in the chassis until the government put them out of the business. I don't know if any were built with the cornbinder engine but it would be interesting to find out. If you check it out, many of the frame and suspension parts and wheels were interchangeable on the early Deere chassis.
Dave has it!!! My daughter says she's pretty certain it's an '88,... AND by that pointed out here, she's likely right.
Another week or so, and it'll be here to become more familiar with.
LJ-TJ,... I'm actually expectin' mileage and performance to be only slightly less than the ol' Winnebago, and most notably in city driving conditions. The D20 was excessively heavy, and I expect this to be only slightly more in GVW. But overall,... I will likely be driving far less too.