So this year's end of year travel out west back to Arizona has been one thing after another...but God is good! We finished the Carolina Renfaire, and on the way back to visit my sister in St Marys, GA, the rear axle bearing on our Jeep Cherokee let go, and the rear wheel on the passenger side caught fire! Thankfully, there was a GA DOT guy behind us that helped me gut the brake drum and milk us down to my sister's house. There, I replaced all the bearings, and the axle, etc. Then, we left to go on our trip out west, and some box truck driver hit the carrier on the back of our tow vehicle that holds my KLR 650 motorcycle...and we were again blessed that a local motorcycle shop had a carrier in stock, and in less than 24 hours we were back on the road again. And then we were driving out on I-10, and the rear driveshaft on the RV bit the dust, even though I just greased it! So we are in a campground that we got towed to (225 bucks...the tow guy was very kind). There is a drive shaft company 33 miles away, so I will bring them ALL the drive shafts on Monday morning to assess and repair them as necessary. This seems to be the year of shite failing, even though I maintain the heck out of my vehicles!!!
Smart move on all the shafts Kev, I did just one of mine and ended up taking them all back to be balanced together (to a different driveline company). Turned out the first one was bent but no matter, they all need to be balanced together. Plus it is real hard to check those carrier bearings by hand. With all the miles you pile on I would have them replaced for general principal while they are in them. I hope the Jeep axle did not take out the housing but if it did then time for a Ford 8.8.
LOL! The Jeep has a Ford 8.8 on the back, from a Bronco 2, with brakes and backing plates and drums from a Ford Ranger. It made getting all the right parts together fun! Had I driven it much longer, the axle would have worn through the bearing race, and it would have been toast...but I was lucky.
Now I have a leak from the transmission that SEEMS to be coming from the pan gasket. I took off the torque converter cover and the torque converter is dry...but it is hard to see past it into the bell housing to see if it is wet or dry. The vibrations from the driveshaft going COULD have damaged the TQ seal, so I might have to unbolt the transmission, inch it backward enough to see between the TQ and the bell housing...and if it leaking from the seal, inch it back some more, enough to get the TQ out so I can replace that oil seal. I sure do hope it is just the pan gasket, which I am going to try first...but we'll see.
I got the rear u-bolts off the differential yoke in the back, and thankfully the yoke wasn't damaged. I also removed the center carrier bearing and the front driveshaft. It looks to me like it was the center carrier bearing that went bad, since I can't turn it. It looks like it might have seized up, causing the catastrophic failure of the rear u-joints...which actually snapped right off!!!
Fun fun fun!
Kev
If you are ever on I-10 in Florida and need a place to camp with your RV, please patronize The Hitching Post and Corral RV Park, in Cottondale. When we broke down and were towed in, not only did they give us a nice dry site (with no fire ants) for me to fix the RV in, when I went to pay them, the invoice for the 4 days we think it will take us to get back on the road said, "Paid in Full...Merry Christmas!!!" What awesome and amazing people!!! https://hitchinpostcorralandcampground.com/
:)ThmbUp Thanks Kev, that's good to know. Always love to support folks with big hearts.
I'm on my way to the driveshaft repair shop. Wish us luck that it doesn't cost us too much! We are on a shoestring winter budget!
Kev
Good luck, Glad to see there are still good people in the world down there. They have had a rough time of it this summer.
Yeah they did...Hurricane Michael hit this area HARD. So an update on the driveshaft saga: I spent ALL day at Covinton Heavy Duty Parts, in Dothan, Alabama, while they tried to cross reference parts to build the new driveshafts. Yes Drive SHAFTS! The front one is also out of round, and the slip yoke is chipped out where the snap ring would fit. So the whole kit and kaboodle is shot. They quoted us around 400 bucks for everything, but couldn't source the parts. So after being there ALL DAY, they sent me down to Mann Automotive in the same town, who said they could do the job for around the same price, but Mann can balance the two driveshafts together for around the same price, and Covington doesn't balance. Well heck folks! If they had sent me to Mann in the first place, they could have ordered the parts today...now they have to look them up tomorrow and order them tomorrow, so we will be in this campground for about a week. And probably won't make it back to Arizona in time for Christmas. This has been one rough and hellacious trip...and we are running out of money. Damn it! We have more than enough dog and cat food, because I always stock up on it before winter "just in case,"...and I don't mind living on Ramen Noodles until we start back up in February. But I'll be goddarned if I'm going to let my wife not have the food she likes. If this keeps up, I might have to sell a gun or two...or even my motorcycle. Fun fun fun!
I think I payed 375.00 and for only one shaft to be straightened and a couple joints and all three balanced. Balancing is a must on these considering the overall length and the speed they are spinning with 4.56 gears. An out of balance shaft will actually cause it to bend in in a few thousand miles. Something else to check, even if you can't do anything about it right now, is driveline angles at each joint. They all have to add up to less than 6 degrees if I remember my math correctly. I think I put the formula's on the forum here somewhere but I will look it up tomorrow. Getting all the angles correct will add years to the u-joints and bearings and also get rid of those annoying vibrations you can never seem to find. These RV's with three shafts get complicated since you have both positive and negative angles together.
I'm not complaining about the price, as I would say it is pretty reasonable for the whole kit and kaboodle...but this is the worst time of the year for us to have unforeseen expenses piling up like this. I'll find out today when I drain the transmission fluid if the leak is from the pan gasket, or if it is from the torque converter seal. I'm really hoping it is from the pan gasket, which is a MUCH easier job. I've never removed a transmission or a torque converter, and it looks pretty darn involved, a big project. I'll have to find someone with a rolling floor jack I can borrow and an old board or piece of plywood, because I don't have a rolling floor jack...and do I have to unbolt the torque converter from the backing plate, or can I leave it attached to the backing plate if I'm not taking the transmission all the way out?
Kev
We are kind of covering this in two threads but it is best to unbolt the convertor from the flywheel and leave it on the transmission so that you do not drag the input shaft through the convertor on an angle as it comes out. Same with going in, convertor on and then transmission in. There is a step in the converter that is not very high but if you do not hit that last step then the convertor will not be fully engaged and sometimes will not fit but even worse sometimes it will and the transmission will bolt up and next thing you know you are starting it up with the convertor not fully engaged. Instant shrapnel!
You will have to pay attention to the convertor as the transmission comes out because it could slide off and fall out. A lot of times I will bolt a piece of steel or wood to one of the bell housing holes so that it blocks the convertor from sliding out.
Good news (I think). The pan on my TH400 transmission has an aftermarket drain plug...and when I drained it today, less than 4 quarts came out. Which is about the capacity of the pan Which leads me to believe that my leak was INDEED coming from the pan gasket, and not the torque converter oil seal. If it was leaking that high up, I would think that more than 4 quarts would come out of the transmission when I drained it, since the capacity of the TH400 is 6 quarts, plus another 5 or so in the torque converter. Does that sound reasonable? Anyone disagree? Did I get lucky this time?
It's possible although if you were two quarts low you probably would not have had reverse which is the gear that uses the most fluid. Usually you can see on the gasket or on the pan where the gasket was not making good seal. Be sure to peen the bolt holes flat on the pan before reinstalling, use Permatex #3 sealant on the gasket and above all DO NOT OVERTIGHTEN! Unless the leak was a bad leak then pulling the trans to repair a convertor seal is not usually a good idea. Remember that you have the pump up there also and it also has a gasket. A convertor seal is just like a rear main seal, it usually leaks onto the convertor and flings out onto the bell housing all around in a circle. The pump gasket just runs down but I have very seldom seen pump gaskets leak. I have seen many, many pan gaskets leak. If you go to the right place you can get reusable gaskets, if you get one of those do not use sealant.
While you are there be sure it is not the little seals where the shift linkage goes into the transmission or the cooling lines.
If you cannot visually tell if there is a Torque converter seal leak, The first step is replacing the pan gasket and filter , Then give it a couple days to drip dry . Definitely remove convertor from the flex plate if you have to go in there . When pushed all the way into the transmission after pulled back from the engine measure distance from convertor to frt of bell housing , So when going back together you can make sure convertor is engaged into the frt pump If not bolting up will cause destruction ! But i think you have found your leak , Dont forget to hammer down any raised portions of pan around bolt holes and do not use a cork gasket ! A small bead of sealer on ea side of gasket is ok dont overdo it , It will plug the filter if it gets into the fluid in any large amt ! Good Luck and if you are borrowing, a transmission jack is way better esp w 4 wheel drive , Possibly can be rented Frank
I've had the speedometer drive gears leak on TH400's. That will cause a drip on the pan also. I only use 1/4" drive rat$hits on transmission pans, torque them just like you would a valve cover basically....Always come back after a heat cycle and lightly snug the bolts again (just like a valve cover).
Thanks guys! I'll be replacing the pan gasket tomorrow, as well as the vacuum actuator and 0-ring...and I'll check around the speedo and shift linkage ports while I'm at it. At least I don't have to pull the transmission! WHEW!!!
Kev
Don't forget to replace the filter while you are in there. I am guessing this is the first time you have done it?
No Rick. I replaced the filter and gasket when I bought the rig...what is it now, 7 or 8 years ago? I'll probably replace it again if the tiny local auto parts store has them in stock.
After I typed that I figured you probably had considering your penchant for maintenance. I would think the would have that filter since it is quite common.
So the saga continues. After running all over to 4 different auto parts stores to get all the parts to fix the transmission leak (when did Dextron transmission fluid get so expensive? It cost me 40 bucks for 6 quarts!), I stopped at a gas station near the RV park, and the rear differential on the Jeep was leaking! What the heck! I determined that it was leaking from the pinion shaft seal, and since I never changed one of those before, and wasn't sure if the pinion bearings and races were any good, I went to the local auto parts store and bought a new Ford 8.8 10 bolt gasket, the oil seal, the bearings and races, and 6 quarts of gear oil. I then drove back to the RV park, and fired up YouTube to learn how to replace the seal and bearings. It was a MUCH easier job than I thought it was going to be...just unbolt the driveshaft yoke from the 8.8 pinion output plate, unbolt the pinion nut, use a puller to get the yoke plate off the pinion shaft, remove the old seal, check the bearing and race, replace if necessary, install the new seal, and top off the gear oil. I didn't have to open the transfer case at all.
What made changing that seal easy, and the problem that caused the seal to fail in the first place, was that the pinion nut was loose, as was the yoke plate on the pinion shaft! I was able to unscrew the nut by hand, and pull the plate right off. After removing the plate and seal, I removed the flinger plate (a small flat round washer about the same size as the bearing...which I almost forget to put back in), and the outside bearing. I cleaned it and inspected it, and it still looked good, but I was going to replace it anyway...and opened the box of bearings, and it was the wrong size. So I greased up the old bearing, and installed it, the flinger plate, and the seal. I then cleaned the pinion nut and the pinion shaft threads with brake cleaner, and used red locktite on the threads (which is why I think it came loose...there wasn't a trace of any thread locker on those threads, which is supposed to be there). I put the yoke plate back on and I tightened it up by feel, making sure there was no in our out play or wobbling, but not too tight, sort of like I would do with a wheel bearing. I topped off the fluid, reconnected the drive shaft, cleaned up and put away my tools, and took it for a test drive to the parts store, to get my money back for the parts not used. So the repair on the Jeep was only 28 bucks total...YAY!!!
I ran out of daylight, so I'll have to fix the RV transmission leak on the next nice day...since it is supposed to rain tonight here in Cottondale, FL, and on and off all day tomorrow.
I called the drive shaft shop this morning, and they found and ordered all the parts needed, so now we wait.
Looks like we are spending Christmas in Florida!
Kev
Kev since you are going to pull the driveshaft out again The pinion nut should be a lot tighter than what you left it at I would look up the torque setting on it and retighten it Frank
This was on our tow vehicle Frank, the Jeep Cherokee. The RV driveshaft is still being rebuilt at a shop 30 miles away.
The 8.8 uses a crush sleeve originally but you still need to put a fair bit of oomph on it to get it where it should be. I would go at least 120 ft.lbs.. Of coarse that means somehow getting the red locktite loose which usually requires a torch since the red is considered permanent. You are actually supposed to use the blue on there but............... It is not going to fall off while towing and if you go easy on it for running around you will be ok but once you get to your winter home then you have some work to do. I would not be driving it a hundred miles like that. I put 150 ft.lbs. on the one in my Mustang when I replaced the pinion seal in that but I was checking for preload at the same time to make sure it did not increase. I am putting 400 plus horses to the wheels and I haven't had any issues yet. Oh, I used blue lock tite. ;) W%
Thanks Rick! I cranked that nut pretty tight with a full size 1/2 inch ratchet, so it probably is around 120 ft lbs or more.
Still no leaks from the Jeep differential! I must have fixed it correctly...lol! The drive shaft shop said all the parts came in, so they are making the shafts today. The U-Joints are supposed to be delivered to them tomorrow, so more than likely I can pick it up tomorrow or Saturday. It rained all day today, so I will fix the transmission leak tomorrow.
Kev
I put the yoke plate back on and I tightened it up by feel, making sure there was no in our out play or wobbling, but not too tight, sort of like I would do with a wheel bearing. I topped off the fluid, reconnected the drive shaft, cleaned up and put away my tools, and took it for a . Hmm Different story from original.. If the second description is accurate no further tightening is required, But if the first description is more accurate then you can expect problems down the road ! You decide Best Wishes Frank
Well crap. The new drive shaft was ready yesterday, so I went and picked it up. 490.00! OUCH. But that isn't the bad part. I went to replace the oil pan gasket and vacuum modulator on the TH400 transmission today...and discovered that the transmission CASE is cracked! Not repairable! We are dead in the water, running out of money, and I just can't see a way out now.
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Holy Crap dude!!!! I have never seen a 400 break there before. That had to be a result of the shaft letting go, was it the front shaft the went? No matter, you need a new transmission. Good part is that 400's are all over the place, bad part is that they are very desirable for racers so prices are not always cheap. I don't know what to say at this point, I don't have any easy answers. You should be able to find one in a junk yard for a couple hundred bucks, it will not be a 475 model unless it is in a RV or a larger truck but the only difference is straight cut gears in low gear. A regular 400 will work fine and you can swap the stuff from the old one later.
I would guess the transmission mount is gone also and that is what allowed this to happen. The shaft whipped everything around.
I found two in the Pensacola area...one with a transfer case attached for 400, and a regular one for 300...and both are around 120 miles from here. So I could spend the last of our travel money, pick one up, HOPE it works, change out the tail cone and whatever else I would have to swap out, install it, and HOPE I didn't just spend the last of our money on a bad transmission. I would also have to buy a thick piece of plywood and a rolling floor jack just to do the transmission swap...and then PRAY that the torque converter wasn't damaged, and that whatever exploded the transmission so violently didn't do any damage to the 454 engine. All the while wondering what is going to break NEXT on this 30 year old motorhome with over 160,000 miles on it.
I don't know man. I don't know what to do.
Wow, that really sucks. Thinking about how that could happen; maybe you should check your engine mounts. If the rear U-joint failed, I would think that the carrier bearing would absorb most of the flexing from the bad joint. But if the engine mounts were allowing flexing, it may have put stress on the transmission case. Just a thought...
At this point? I'm thinking it is time to replace this 30 year old RV with over 160,000 miles on it. And I am at a total loss right now how to make that happen. Total loss. I have no idea. We can't work if we can't travel...and without money to fix or replace the rig, we can't travel to make more money to fix the rig the next time. So we are dead in the water. First time in my life I ever felt even remotely helpless.
Wow. When it rains it pours, The TH400 I took out of my Winnie That was a perfectly working trans I could not sell Took it to 3 Transmission shops < Nobody wanted it Took it to the scrap yard , Got $10.00 in scrap , Cant imagine them being so expensive now They are pretty much obsolete ! What a way to ruin Christmas Best Wishes Frank !
Its all good Frank. God will provide. He always does. I just don't know HOW this time around...lol! Christmas is never ruined. I'm holding out for a Christmas miracle...and hedging my bets by searching Craigslist for other options...lol!
Kevin, stay away from the 4WD unit if you can because you will have to also change out the output shaft. That means a complete teardown. Is the transmission mount broken? If it is and there is evidence that the transmission whipped to the side then that is what broke the case. You can start the engine even with no oil in the transmission, just don't run it more than a minute or so and put a pan under it because it will empty oil from the convertor. You want to preserve the innards since I don't think they are bad judging from the color of the fluid I can see. That will tell you about the engine. The engine kept running after the shaft let go didn't it? Was there any shrapnel in the transmission pan? If not then the transmission did not lock up and take out the shaft in which case the convertor should be fine.
I put some feelers out on my military vehicle forum to a couple guys in Fla. and Louisiana to see if they have anything or know of anything. I know of a guy that actually owns an RV park on the Georgia border but you are quite a ways past him already. I will try to contact him but he is hard to get hold of. If you want to PM me your phone number t will be a little easier to get hold of you if I find something.
Thanks Rick. At this point, I am at a total loss. I never expected this combination of bad luck to leave us decimated.
I'm going to try. You all that don't know me don't realize how humbling this is to me. I never ask for help and have never felt this helpless in my life. [/size]https://www.gofundme.com/manage/get-siege-the-day-back-on-the-road (https://www.gofundme.com/manage/get-siege-the-day-back-on-the-road)
I'm going to try. You all that don't know me don't realize how humbling this is to me. I never ask for help and have never felt this helpless in my life. https://www.gofundme.com/get-siege-the-day-back-on-the-road&rcid=r01-154552794827-ac3b1658e927423b&pc=ot_co_campmgmt_w
Please help. https://www.gofundme.com/get-siege-the-day-back-on-the-road
https://dothan.craigslist.org/ptd/d/ozark-7000-original-miles-chevrolet-454/6776910308.html (https://dothan.craigslist.org/ptd/d/ozark-7000-original-miles-chevrolet-454/6776910308.html)
did you see this one? out of an rv
Another one, I think? Hard to tell but it sounds like he's selling the tranny:
https://tallahassee.craigslist.org/pts/d/perry-chevy-454/6769569884.html
Where are you located?
Thanks tmsyder. Both are close to us, so I'll look into them...just not sure I want to spend 350-500 more on a transmission for this very old and tired rig.
Kevin, I do not want to sound like the doting dad giving advice but keep in mind that anything you look at to replace the one you have is still going to be used. You need something that is going to go many miles and tow a LOT of weight so you are best served by something heavier, and newer, than a P30 chassis. You should be looking for a bus chassis motorhome and they do not come cheap. You should also be looking at a diesel for both fuel mileage and longevity reasons. Again, not cheap. For these reasons you may want to consider fixing what you have for now until you have funds for a newer and heavier unit. Basically you get what you pay for and you certainly do not want to buy into another money pit!
Just my honest opinion.
Rick
I agree with Rick, devil you know and all that. Although this has been a huge breakdown, the rest of the rig is still very serviceable. A replacement may end up digging you in deeper. Not that anyone selling anything would try and deceive the buyer!! Rick
Advice noted guys. I found a couple of diesel pushers on Freightliner chassis in the 10-15K range. So I'm going to keep looking and hope for the best.
The ironic thing is WHERE we broke down. This was ground zero for Hurricane Michael...so in this area all the more affordable RVs are being used by folks that are fixing their houses and roofs, etc.
Kev
Hey folks. Even if you can't donate, could you please share this on your Facebook, Twitter, and other social media accounts?
Thank you so much!
https://www.gofundme.com/get-siege-the-day-back-on-the-road (https://www.gofundme.com/get-siege-the-day-back-on-the-road)
Kevin and Patti
I've always thought that after my classic RV gives up the ghost, I will park it on my land as a guest house. best of luck to you!
Kev,
I don't see any way to donate using PayPal with GoFundMe. I want to send donation from the CWVRV fund. PM me with your paypal info, please!
PM sent. Thank you Mark!!!
Kev
I would fix it, there's not much that's cheaper to work on and fix than a chevy 454 and th400 tranny, common parts, huge pool of people that can fix them. I just think if you get into a diesel pusher you'll be looking at much more $ to fix, b/c lets face it, they all break eventually. I'd rather be able to work on it myself or if needed, have a part fixed at a common shop. Not so with a diesel. those are for much deeper pockets.
Personally, I'd go with a used th400 and baby it, or if I wanted to never touch it again, take it to a shop and have them bullet proof it.
Then make sure the cooling system was totally up to snuff and get a gage on there to make sure.
I agree you are better with the Bugger you know. You have made a lot of improvements that have not paid for themselves yet . Plan on spending the rest of the winter in Florida ( What a bad break) Replace it with a guaranteed used one or have one rebuilt You will have some spare parts if needed from your broken one . That gives ya at least 4 Mo to replace the trans . I would also check the front motor mounts after all that shifting and age They are susceptible Good Luck Frank Happy Holidays
Thanks for the suggestions guys! For now, Merry Christmas to all of you! And a special thank you for the generous personal donation from Mark our leader...and the generous donation from Classic Winnebagos. I am overwhelmed and humbled. Thank you all, and Merry Christmas!!!
Kevin, I posted last night but I don't see it so I guess it didn't go through. Do a lot of research on the Freightliner chassis coaches. I am not up on the newer chassis but I have heard a lot of horror stories about parts and prices on the Freightliners. Some people say they are a very hard company to deal with and getting parts is very hard and expensive. I really wish I could donate but being on disability the income is just not there. I also wish you had broken down closer to me and you could have had the transmission out of my parts unit as long as you helped me get the motor out also so I could scrap the rest. Then again, it is cold and wet here so that may not have been good. I do not see this parts unit going anywhere so if and when you come through or close to NJ next year let me know. I have tools, jacks, torches, welders, front end loader, chain saws........................... you get the picture. I am just limited in what I can do physically anymore to help.
It is okay Rick. We appreciate all the advice and support. Just keep on sharing our link to the Go Fund Me on your social media accounts, and keep on bumping them up.
[size=14px !important]https://www.gofundme.com/get-siege-the-day-back-on-the-road (https://www.gofundme.com/get-siege-the-day-back-on-the-road)[/size]
After a couple of less than kind emails and PMs, Merry Christmas! And I sincerely hope that you never have a chain of events that, despite your best efforts, brings you to your knees with your back against a wall during your life. I'm 50 years old, and never took a dime in welfare or "WIC" or anything else from anyone, and always donate to those in need...and regularly donate to animal shelters. But have a Merry Christmas! God bless and may the wind be always at your back.
Hey Kev, You know and I know and we all know there people out there got nothing better to do with there time than to try and denigrate folks when there backs up against it. They have very low self a steam. The only way they can make themselves feel important and superior is by trying to shame someone when there down and out. Those type of folks aren't worth the time of day. I know you know that but it's pretty hard to ignore sometime. Hang in there buddy. We've all been were you are at at some point in time and if not we will be down the road. We don't think any less of you. Your going to do just fine and got the support of the gang here. Merry Christmas and it's going to be a Grrrrreat New Year. :)ThmbUp
🙋â€â™€ï¸I agree with TJ, some people make themselves feel better by making others feel worse. Good thing that they are in the minority. Hang in there Kevin, you know the saying "When the going gets tough, the tough get going". Merry Christmas to you and Patti and all your furry kids.🤠
Merry Christmas to all!!!
Hey guys. We are going to go look at this RV tomorrow. Anything I should know about the John Deere chassis, Ford 460, and whatever transmission this motorhome uses that I should be aware of or worried about?
https://panamacity.craigslist.org/rvs/d/marianna-john-deere-coach-champion/6762279381.html
Kev
Opinion only no experience with that coach ! And you know what they say about opinions , 1 looks like it has been stored indoors , 2 has way too many windows , 3 At least its not a 10 cylinder a 460 is a proven engine with a lot of availability . 4 You have if needed a good generator 5 Ford Automatic transmissions are as good as any . 6 Looks lived in, ??? 7 has a big screen tv viewable from outside 8 Can you get anything for your old one ?? You know what to look for Good Luck Ask why they are selling ??? Frank
Frank pretty much covered it, the Ford 460 is a beast of a motor but it is a THIRSTY beast! The C6 transmission is as strong as the Chey 400, (Not a good comparison right now I know). The main thing that I do know is that rear brakes seem to be a major problem to find. Go to the Ford section of the chassis section of the forum here and I think there are a couple threads in there about people not being able to find brake parts. That would be a major stumbling block for you considering the miles you drive. Ford stopped making RV chassis's around 1990. Some of the parts carried on in the F series and some did not.
If it has the original Ford Motorcraft four barrel carb you will want to replace that since rebuilds are expensive and a Holley or Edelbrock would work as well or better.
Kevin, Just had a brain fart and cleared out my head! Ford turned into John Deere around 86-87 and that was when a lot of the brake compatibility and other parts issues cropped up so do a bit of research on late Ford/ early John Deere brake parts and other common parts you might think you will need down the road. I say this because as you have found out, small town parts stores don't carry much of anything for RV's and the oddball RV's are even worse.
Thanks Frank and Rick!
We are also going to look at the 1996 Allegro Bay tomorrow. 454, 4 speed transmission with overdrive, only 43K miles, and looks pretty darn nice. I got a hold of the guy today and he seems like a good fellow...so he wants me to call him back in the morning since his house is full of Christmas family visitors.
With what we have left from our savings, and with what we received so graciously from the Go Fund Me, we could actually afford to buy this one right away at only 7000.00 dollars...and that is if he doesn't want to come down in price. It is a nice looking coach, and Patti loves it from the pictures.
Of course, that would wipe out pretty much all of our money, so we would have to pray that the Go Fund Me brings in just enough more to get us out to Arizona.
https://panamacity.craigslist.org/rvs/d/gonzalez-1996-allegro-bay/6768781976.html (https://panamacity.craigslist.org/rvs/d/gonzalez-1996-allegro-bay/6768781976.html)
Kev
Well Tina loves her Allegro, So there is that. First check the status and meaning of lien on the Title . The trans would be the same as what i put in mine a 4L80E with OD and lock up ! Note cannot be towed without removing drive shaft or axles ! The engine you are familiar with except it will have TBI . Veh Looks good ?? Michelins are good but they also have problems Ck em close ! What is the plywood panel on the ceiling ? AC removed ?? Frank
You are sharp as a tack Frank! Those are questions I am going to ask him tomorrow before we drive all the way to Pensacola to see and possibly buy the RV. Why is there luan screwed to the ceiling when the ad says both ACs work? And why is there a lien on the title? If the tires are even remotely questionable to me, I can switch my good and fairly new tires from the Holiday Rambler to the Allegro...same rims, so just an easy switch over. I didn't want to pester him with a barrage of questions on Christmas Day while he was entertaining family and guests. I'll get those answers in the morning, when he said to call back.
Now I just have to figure out other logistics if we end up buying this RV. I don't know jack about rubber roofs. How do I mount my solar panels to the new roof? Is it the same as the aluminum roofs I am familiar with? If the title has a lien, what does that mean for insurance and registration, and how do I clear the lien and at what cost? It only has one rear axle, so we are going to have to lighten up our load a LOT. No more running heavy. Etc.
You are a good and wise man Frank. Merry Christmas to you and Louie, and thank you!
Kev
Another question I have to ask, because I can't tell from the pictures, even when I enlarged them. Is their a rear receiver hitch for a tow vehicle? I would have thought that that would be a standard item on any RV, but I don't see one in the picture.
The ad does say it handles a small dinghy well.
LOL! And I certainly have one of those. Wait...what? LOL! Merry Christmas sir!
I would definitely lean towards the Allegro over the Ford. The lien just means he took out a loan on it I am sure but that also means he will not get the title until the loan company gets the money so you will have to wait for it to be mailed to you. He said something about towing a dingy so there must be a hitch but be aware that the frame extension on that one will not be as high of quality as yours so heavy trailers are out of the question. I use a Trailer Toad to take care of that problem. The rubber roof is the top of the line for roofs but you do NOT want to put holes in it!!! Do some research, I think there are ways to glue mounts to the rubber but you have to use the right glue so as not to degrade the rubber. You may need different mounts. I agree with Frank on the Michelin tires, look between the treads for cracks, they have been known to split and blow out. You will not gain any more power from the TBI injection but you will gain a ton more dependability. The AC and generator are definite bargaining points as are the tires, do not mention you can use your tires. Also, be sure you can swap in your generator without too much hassle, exhaust can sometimes be an issue.
Kevin, Something that has not been mentioned is what are you going to do with your old one? You can't just drive off and leave it there. Most junkyards don't want them since there is not enough metal as opposed to all the other material to make it worth the effort. Here is an idea, you are in an area that got slammed and is in desperate need of housing of any sort. Donate it to anyone who is willing to tow it to there plot where their house used to stand. That will give them a place to live, it will get you out from under the dead RV, win-win.
460 Hmmmmmm Hm? Not meaning to pile on BUT I have a 460 in my regular every day run of the mill 1/2 ton pickup. I get 5 miles to the gallon. Yep! Doesn't matter how slow I drive. Doesn't matter how FAST I drive. Doesn't matter if I'm going up hill. Doesn't matter if I'm going down hill with the wind at my back. Doesn't matter how tweekie I get the carb. I still only get 5 miles to the gallon. Shoot that's even a Canadian gallon. D:oH!
Those are some sweet looking rigs your looking at.
Thank Rick and LJ-TJ.
We are going up to look at the Allegro Bay today, and maybe the other one this afternoon. I plan on bargaining as much as I can with the guy.
I won't abandon our old RV and make it someone elses problem. I plan on putting it on Craigslist for free, or we think the RV park owner might know someone that will tow it away, put a transmission in it, and sell it.
Kev
Just got caught up on your situation kev, sorry for the big break (literally). The plywood covering the AC/vent port is covering up water damage for sure on that Allegro, I can see water staining on the ceiling also (looks that way to me anyway)....I agree with all the great advice you've been getting, I would steer clear of J.D. Chassis rigs too. I think you should go bus!
We looked at the Allegro Bay today, and it is a nice coach!!! There was a leak where that plywood is, but the new rubber roof membrane is covering it on the outside, waiting for the vents to be reinstalled. The seller put that Luan up there because he was trying to cover the water stains, and was going to cut through it from the top, and then paint it. If we buy this coach, and we very well might, we'll either clean the water stains off the ceiling carpet, or use fabric paint to paint the whole ceiling.
44K miles and it runs and drives perfect! And it is so quiet! It handles very well too. We will have to really cut down on "things" if we buy this coach, since it doesn't have as much storage, but dang is it a nicely maintained rig!
Tomorrow we are going to look at the Champion, and then keep looking on Craigslist for new listings. If nothing else comes up by Monday, and we don't like the Champion, we'll be driving back to Pensicola to buy the Allegro at the seller's credit union, where we can get the title and everything else taken care of right there.
https://panamacity.craigslist.org/rvs/d/marianna-john-deere-coach-champion/6762279381.html
Now I have to do some research on rubber roofs, and how to install vents, and how to install solar panels on a rubber roof. I have no experience with them at all.
Kev
What do you guys think about this Itasca? It is a diesel pusher with an almost identical interior layout to what we have now. We MIGHT be able to talk them down to 7K, our maximum budget.
https://lakecity.craigslist.org/rvs/d/lake-city-1995-itasca-diesel-pusher-60/6777669475.html
Kev
Good looking coach Kev!! But of course, it may look different in person. Just looking at the pictures again, it appears to be on the bigger chassis, a good thing!! Rick
The Panamacity one doesn't look to hot, even looks like the steering wheel has/had mold on it when they took that picture??
The Itaska looks great in the pics, I don't know nothing about them though. I would be looking for service records on that diesel. If they have zero info on maintenance history, and "just want it gone" like the add says, then it's a big gamble.
!-! ? My experience with diesels is pretty limited, I owned A White single axle and maintained, incl trans repairs and engine valve work plus other stuff, Cummins JT With Blower, Plus working on VW and Peugeot And Mercedes Passenger cars . But i can tell you it is a whole different world From Gasoline engine powered . Seeing maintenance records with cost of repairs and maintenance are a must , If none are available it is because they don't want you to know something ! Be very cautious on this one ! Frank
Good lord! The 87 Champion with the John Deere chassis is disgusting in person. YUCK!!!
We just talked to the guy with the 95 Itasca Diesel pusher. It is a dealership, and when we explained everything to him, he went through the whole coach with us over the phone, and then said he would take 7500.00, or go as low as 7000.00 if I threw in a couple of my rifles. It is 180 miles from here, so we'll be leaving at 7am tomorrow morning, and driving to Lake City. We'll be bringing the pups with us, as well as the Blue Ox tow bar and towing kits and license plate, and a few of my guns I'm willing to part with. If we drive all that way and like it, we are going to buy it on the spot, hook the Jeep up to the tow bar, and drive it back to this RV park in Cottondale.
Wish us luck folks!
https://lakecity.craigslist.org/rvs/d/lake-city-1995-itasca-diesel-pusher-60/6777669475.html
Kev
Sounds great Kev, hope everything works out. Rick
Thanks Elandan! It is a serious upgrade, being a diesel pusher with a Cummings turbo diesel engine with only 60K miles on an Oshkosh chassis. We will still have to lighten up our load significantly and get rid of a lot of "things" for lack of a basement storage type setup...but I'm okay with that! Half the crap we have in our storage compartments we haven't used since we stored them there...lol! Its interior setup is nearly identical, right down to cabinet space, as what we have now. Tomorrow is hopefully the big day when we bring our "new" home...home!
It is officially a 1995 Itasca Sunrise 32rQ. I found owners manuals online and brochures from Winnebago directly, but haven't been able to find the Oshkosh chassis manual from 1995, so hopefully they are included with the RV. I don't know a heck of a lot about diesels yet.
Kev
Well then you are doing something wrong! I have had several 429's and 460's and they for the most part got 8-10 MPG in pick-ups. Well the one with the 6-71 superchaarger was a little less.................................................................. 3 MPG if I kept my foot out of it. W% W%
Maybe it is that lead foot and 4.88 gears. :)rotflmao :)rotflmao :)rotflmao
LOL Rick. I could deal with the fuel economy of the 460...but the coach itself was disgusting! Dirty, not enough cabinets, disgusting carpets, wouldn't start (and they knew we were coming for days), just a basket case. Yuck!
Kev
Kevin, I missed a bunch of posts but the diesel is just what you need. It is a pusher which means it has the heavier rear chassis for towing. It has the diesel for mileage and longevity. And bonus is that it has a diesel with extremely low mileage. Does not seem to be a good deal on the rifle trade though, 500.00 for two rifles? Depending on the guns I might have given you more for them. (even though I shouldn't, but guns are ok to buy, right dear?........................ dear?) I hope this one works out for you and I really hope you can pull this whole mess together and get home. Hopefully it is a Cummins diesel. If it is a GM V8 diesel out of a pick up that would not be good since they were grossly underpowered.
Quote from: ClydesdaleKevin on December 27, 2018, 08:21 PM
LOL Rick. I could deal with the fuel economy of the 460...but the coach itself was disgusting! Dirty, not enough cabinets, disgusting carpets, wouldn't start (and they knew we were coming for days), just a basket case. Yuck!
Kev
Best to find out these things right off and leave it. Amazing people don't even try to clean something.
I will update you all tomorrow night about the Itasca, and if it all went well.
Please keep on sharing our Go Fund Me to your social media accounts though. If we buy this rig at 7K, we still need fuel and food to get us out to Arizona, and the food needs to last us until we start back to work on February 1st. I'm okay with Ramen...lol! Just keep the Go Fund Me at the top of your feeds.
Thank you all SO much for your love and support! We are humbled and eternally grateful!
[size=78%]https://www.gofundme.com/get-siege-the-day-back-on-the-road (https://www.gofundme.com/get-siege-the-day-back-on-the-road)[/size]
Kev
Is there any mention in the manuals you got what engine is in the Itasca?
YOU can eat Ramen, the pups are not going to eat Ramen!!!!!
I see it says 230 turbo diesel so it is probably a Cummins. Keep that thought. If it is a 6 cylinder than it is a Cummins, V8 is a Chevy.
I know Rick. I'm only willing to sacrifice at a low price some of my lesser rifles...like the Mosin Nagant M44, and the Savage bolt action .223 with the bull barrel and scope. I might consider getting rid of the Glock 30 if I have to, but Patti really likes that little handgun and has kind of claimed it as her own. But at this point I would get rid of most of my guns at a loss if it meant getting us back to work. Hopefully it doesn't come to that, since the investment I have in firearms can't be gotten back quickly...you have to find the right buyers, which we aren't in the position to do sitting in the middle of nowhere...lol!
Rick: Looks like it is the Cummings...since the rear engine I've seen in these things from the manuals is the Cummings, and the front engine ones are the ones with Chevy diesels.
As far as the doggos go, we always stock up on bags of dog food before winter...we can go hungry, but I won't let them! We still have 5 bags of food for them, so they and the cat are all set.
Kev
Great! The Cummins is a great motor and will last a long time. Keep the oil changed and keep good fuel filters in it. oil once a year but keep a supply of fuel filters, sometimes you can get a load of fuel and the filter gets clogged quick. Better that than a wiped out pump and injectors. Filters are cheap.
Now, I could tell you how to get about 600 horsepower out of that Cummins! Hm? Hm? N:( N:( N:( N:(
Quote from: Rickf1985 on December 27, 2018, 08:55 PM
Great! The Cummins is a great motor and will last a long time. Keep the oil changed and keep good fuel filters in it. oil once a year but keep a supply of fuel filters, sometimes you can get a load of fuel and the filter gets clogged quick. Better that than a wiped out pump and injectors. Filters are cheap.
Now, I could tell you how to get about 600 horsepower out of that Cummins! Hm? Hm? N:( N:( N:( N:(
Yeah, probably lots of upgrades you could do to that motor, probably start with a simple pump adjustment or kit. I would change out the anti freeze soon and use 50/50 or straight concentrate mixed with DI water and replace the water filter if it has one.
Well they should be getting home pretty soon. Can't wait to here how they made out. I'm hoping good. Kind of feel like a kid on Christmas Eve waiting to see what Santa Clause brought. i?? It looks like it would be a nice rig if the pictures are right. It would be an incredible up grade from what they have. As well as a great way to cross the United States as they do every year. Here's hoping. :)ThmbUp
It is ours, and we drove it back 180 miles to the campground today! It is actually a 1995 Itasca Suncruiser, not a Sunrise.
Rick...I don't think I need any MORE horsepower out of that Cummings. Good lord does it want to go! I kept looking down at the speedometer and having to slow down, since I don't trust the front tires...I would be going 65 up hill, towing the Jeep loaded with my tools, thinking I was going 50 or so...and nope! 65 plus!
Driving this thing (and maintaining it) is going to be a learning curve for sure! It doesn't wander on the road, and doesn't seem to get pushed by passing semi trucks, like the last 3 RVs we have owned. Because the engine is in the back, it is a surprise when it shifts, because you can't hear or feel the RPMs like with a gas front engine. And speaking of shifting, we were ready to take off, and I couldn't find a shift lever! Patti pointed out a digital screen on the left of the dashboard, and that is how you shift it. It has six speeds, which leads me to believe it is an Allison transmission. And it has different modes you can set it in, which I will figure out when I read all the manuals that came with this coach.
It actually didn't run all that great when we first set off on our maiden voyage... diesel tank was almost empty. Once I filled it, it started running like a dream. So yeah, I'm definitely going to change the fuel filter and get some extra filters, and definitely drain the water separator.
We noticed a few things on our maiden voyage, like the front tires, which are cracked. But they are the same size, 8r-19.5s, that we are running on the Holiday Rambler, which are pretty new. I don't think the bolt pattern is the same on the rims, so if they aren't, I'll bring at least the front tires, and the two best tires off the HR, to a tire shop to have them mounted and balanced. I'll check the rear tires carefully while I am at it. If they are the same rims, I'll switch out all the tires on the Itasca with ones from the HR...since we are on a tight budget.
We also noticed that one headlight is out, and the headlights are super dim. It was pouring out on our drive home and got dark on us, so that last 80 miles sucked. Also needs new wiper blades, although they got us home. One marker light doesn't work, an easy fix. Power steering started making some noise by the time we got home, so it might have a leak. Cruise control and horn doesn't work, and although the dash AC seems to be working, the heat wouldn't come on (fan works though). We'll figure it all out this week. And the trailer plug is a 6 pin deal, instead of the 4 pin setup we have for our magnetic tow lights, so I'll have to get an adapter or rewire in a 4 pin trailer plug (we drove back with the hazard lights flashing on the Jeep, since we didn't have any other choice).
The seller originally wanted 9200, but we talked him down to 6800, plus my old Mosin Nagant M44, a Savage bolt action rifle, and my Glock 30.
After making the transaction, we drove the Jeep right down the street to the DMV and transfered our plates and got a new title right there.
So it is ours, for better or worse! It really is a nice coach, inside and out.
Next up after and during the maintenance and travel checks: The great pairing down of our "things" and transferring what we are going to keep from the HR to the Itasca.
And it is a 95, so it is still officially a "Classic Winnebago,"...lol!
I'm putting my motorcycle and carrier on Craigslist tomorrow, as well as the Holiday Rambler. I figure if I list it for 1000.00 or b/o, someone might be able to get a nice enough coach for occasional camping if they replace the transmission. I just wouldn't trust it anymore to transverse the States every year like we do. And/or I might part it out for some of the good parts we aren't going to transfer over, like the tires we might not be able to use, the Splendide washer/dryer, the Dometic fridge which works perfectly, the brand new front Duo Therm A/C, the on demand Gen 2 water heater, and the ThinLite fixtures, 12 of them, already converted over to LEDs. And the strong running 454, etc. We have to be on the road by January 7th, so we won't have time to sell anything for top dollar...it will all have to go quick, or go to the salvage yard.
The new coach has ducted air and ducted heat, and the quietness of them is so different from what we are used to. Gotta learn about those too.
So we are going to keep the Go Fund Me up until we have at least 1500 in travel money...as soon as we hit that goal, hopefully through my Craigslist sales this week, the Go Fund Me comes down, and off we go.
Thank you everyone! I'm going to start a new thread tomorrow once we get working on the Itasca.
Kev
W% Dont forget the Natures Head, Kevin.
You did good! The transmission will be an Alison although I am surprised it is a 6 speed, I would have expected a 5 speed. BONUS!!! I believe that is an Alison 645 but I would have to look through my books, way too long since I worked on one. I was just kidding about adding power, t is quite easy to do but the more power you add the more life you take from the motor. Check the air filter and be SURE to get some biocide for the fuel. If it was sitting low on fuel it is sure to have algae in the tank. The biocide will kill the algae and it will end up in the fuel filters, so get some extra filters. They will not clog as fast as gas engine filters but you want to have a couple spares until you know the fuel is clean. It was a Florida vehicle, salt air, so check ALL electrical connections and especially the grounds. You are going to find a lot of them are rusty or corroded and that will be the main issue with a lot of your electrics. I think you made an excellent choice and I am actually jealous! If you need any help with the engine or electrical do not hesitate to call me. I will pm you my phone number.
LOL Joan! We are probably going to keep and install it. I don't think anyone would want to buy a used composting toilet. Yuck!
Kev
Our new home!
(https://storage.ning.com/topology/rest/1.0/file/get/550516509?profile=original)
(https://storage.ning.com/topology/rest/1.0/file/get/550522495?profile=original)
(https://storage.ning.com/topology/rest/1.0/file/get/550529985?profile=original)
Thanks Rick! Your inbox is full by the way...lol!
Kev
Hi Kev , Did you have ownership of the Glock transferred at a Federal Firearms dealer ? Good luck on your purchase you have a lot of work ahead if you have to pull out by Jan 7th Dont forget the necc photo,s Happy New Year ! Frank & Louie
You would be surprised with what people will buy. We have an extra one here now that we aren't using the motorhome. A little pressure washing and it will look like new. :)
I didn't bother Frank. He showed me his valid Florida conceal carry license, and that was good enough for me, although we did note the firearms transfer with serial numbers on the bill of sale for future reference. Private sales in Florida don't have to be recorded anywhere...we just did it for a chain of ownership in case the firearm ever ends up in the wrong hands.
Kev
Also...if anyone from Classic Winnebagos wants the Holiday Rambler FOR FREE, and you can arrange to have it towed to your location from Cottondale, FL by January 7th, it is yours! We have a clean Florida title to sign over to you.
Kev and Patti.
Looks like a real score guys!! Best of luck. Rick
Thanks Rick/Elandan2!
Here is another picture I took today. I have NO idea what this thing is. Maybe an engine brake?
(https://storage.ning.com/topology/rest/1.0/file/get/566636034?profile=original)
Only 86 hours on the propane Onan generator!
(https://storage.ning.com/topology/rest/1.0/file/get/566687544?profile=original)
(https://storage.ning.com/topology/rest/1.0/file/get/566671508?profile=original)
Diesel pusher...230 HP with a 6 speed Allison transmission. (https://storage.ning.com/topology/rest/1.0/file/get/566705800?profile=original)
(https://st2.ning.com/topology/rest/1.0/file/get/566912775?profile=original)
Quote from: ClydesdaleKevin on December 29, 2018, 08:20 PM
Here is another picture I took today. I have NO idea what this thing is. Maybe an engine brake?
(https://storage.ning.com/topology/rest/1.0/file/get/566636034?profile=original)
That is an engine brake but I have no idea how it was hooked up. All the ones I worked on were mechanical engine brakes with solenoids. If that works then an engine brake is a great thing to have and saves a ton of wear on the brakes. Have to be careful in the wet and especially snow. With the small Cummins probably not and issue but the bigger engine where you have 700-800 cubic inches of oomph you can slide the tires on wet surfaces if you aren't careful if the brake is set up for too many cylinders. I am thinking that is may be an exhaust brake. Then again, the shift down light would indicate an engine brake.
Gotta LOVE a pile full of manuals!!! Everything is here, including all the Oshkosh/Allison/Cummings manuals. (https://storage.ning.com/topology/rest/1.0/file/get/566948718?profile=original)
LOL Rick! Probably the same way this crazy arse shifter selector is. Remotely. I hope it doesn't fail before we get to AZ. I'm an engineer. The more complicated it is, the more apt it is to fail. (https://storage.ning.com/topology/rest/1.0/file/get/566743814?profile=original)
Hi kev, Looking better all the time, Time to update your member info, I have a Nephew in St Augustine that might be interested in the old one . want me to see if he is interested ? Frank
Yes Frank! I will give it to him for free, but he will have to get it towed out of here, in Cottondale, Florida.
Oh Look, Kevin finally gets leveling jacks! You're going to love them. Comes in handy when you need to change a tire.
Dan
Quote from: ClydesdaleKevin on December 29, 2018, 09:01 PM
LOL Rick! Probably the same way this crazy arse shifter selector is. Remotely. I hope it doesn't fail before we get to AZ. I'm an engineer. The more complicated it is, the more apt it is to fail. (https://storage.ning.com/topology/rest/1.0/file/get/566743814?profile=original)
Well, I can't speak for the shifter but the Allison transmissions are pretty bulletproof and the load you are putting on it with that motorhome is very little compared to what it is designed for. Hopefully you will find the info for the engine brake in all of that. I am curious about that. Those shifters have been around for years and I have seldom seen issues with them. I have used them on big plow trucks and recently on a 75 foot bucket truck.
So we just sold the motorcycle and carrier for 900.00, and someone came by today and bought the Holiday Rambler for a 1000.00. Gotta love Craigslist! Now we'll have enough to get us to Arizona, with a bit of a buffer for any emergencies that might come up until we get back to work.
The guy who bought the motorcycle and carrier came by first thing this morning, and we loaded the bike up on his van. Then another guy came by and wants the RV, but knows it will take us a few more days to transfer everything to our new motorhome, so he gave us 500.00 down, and is coming back in a few days with another 500.00 and a tow truck.
This nightmare has become a dream thanks to all of you! Thank you all so much!
Kev and Patti
Hey Hey Very Good Seems all is turning out well , Hope the new one is as dependable as the old one , Keep on Keeping on Happy New Year it will be full of a lot of new stuff Frank & Louie
Way to go. Now we all know that you will have a Happy New Year. Things do happen for a reason. Give the pups a scratch for me.🚍✌
Thanks Joan and Frank! Happy New Year to you as well!
Kev
:)ThmbUp Yep! Congratulations. Looks like life is going to be sooooo much nicer in the new rig.WOW! Well done. I can hardly wait to here all about the new adventures. Happy New Year she looks like she's going to be a grrrrreat one. :)rotflmao
Thanks LJ-TJ! And happy New Year to you both as well! I'm just trying to figure out now what fluid to use for the power steering (it calls for Dexron 2 in the manuals), and a few other things.
Kev
I am a strong believer in fate. When you look back at the events that have taken place, you can't help but believe it was all destined to be. What are the odds that the H.R. would disintegrate in a place near a campground that was nice, helpful, and conveniently located, relatively near some inexpensive motorhomes, one of which was destined to become your new home. What are the odds that you would have such a response from friends on your GoFundMe page so this could happen. Suddenly when you are at your lowest point and moving on seems hopeless, things just seem to fall into place and you have to wonder if it wasn't all planned out in the first place. Good things happen to good people. Now don't go running off and not letting us hear from you for six months or more. Many of us have some investment in this trip.
I know Dan! God is good, however anyone wants to interpret that. Everything DOES happen for a reason, and we are blessed! And we aren't going anywhere! I got distracted with Facebook and Twitter...but I don't use those social media providers anymore. I will be spending my internet time here, another forum, and Gab.com.
Kev
Kevin, You had mention needing front tires and you were going to use the tires from your old one, Be sure the new one does not have radials, you do not want to mix bias and radials. If I remember correctly you are running the Sampsons? Which by the way I cannot find anymore since mine are starting to crack from not using enough.
Never mind, I completely forgot the Sampsons are radials. DOH!
Another tip , For the jeep, Being towed behind a diesel will coat the windshield and the rest of the veh with diesel dirt and slime , a cover is a good idea or an ex extension up to roof level , Or make sure you clean the windshield and wipers before using the Jeep ! Dexron is ATF Quite common in power steering . Also check engine oil level every AM when traveling . Lack of lube will cause major damage fast ! It is OK to run the engine up against the governor if necc, It will do no damage ! But the automatic should take care of necc RPM ! Frank
Thanks guys!
Rick: The Sampsons are radials...lol! And ours don't have any cracks or checkering.
Frank: Good advice on the diesel fumes on the windshield! I'll check the Dexron that I just bought to change the transmission fluid in the Holiday Rambler, and see if it will work. From what I read online, all the Dexrons are backwards compatible, except Dexron VI, which should have a warning on the label not to use it for power steering. And I'll be checking all the fluids at ever stop, like I always did with the HR.
Thanks again guys!
Kev
Today is supposed to be nice weather in Cottondale, FL, so I'm going to pull the solar panels off the roof of the HR, and install them onto the roof of the Itasca. Those things are pretty heavy, so wish me luck...lol! I'm not going to wire them in until we are all safe and sound in Arizona though...I still have to figure out how many batteries I can use (I can only fit 2 deep cycles in the battery compartment under the stairs, plus the starting battery), so I'm not going to run any wires until I figure out if I can add more batteries, where I can add them, and where I'm going to put the inverter, charge controller, and Powermax Boondocker. The Itasca currently has a converter built into the power control panel/fuse/breaker box under the fridge, and from what I've read in the manual, it would be anemic the way we use our RV fulltime and with boondocking. It is a simple two stage charger that puts out a 30 amp charge (if I read the specs correctly). So all that can wait until we get to AZ.
I'm also going to pull the chrome wheel cover off of one of the front tires today, so see if the rims are the same as the ones on the HR, or if I'll have to take one HR tire and one Itasca tire to a tire shop (I can only fit two wheels at a time in the Jeep), and have them mount/dismount/bead balance them, etc.
And then it is supposed to rain here for 3 days, and then be nice for our last 3 days.
Kev
How are you going to mount the panels? Please tell me you aren't putting holes in the rubber roof?!
I'm pretty sure that the roof is fiberglass, but before I pull these panels off, I'm going to confirm that in the manuals. It doesn't feel rubbery at all, and is hard and slick under the fingernails.
Kev
Could be metal, aluminum. If it is I will warn you that it is VERY thin and will not support screws so if you screw into it be absolutely sure there is a support rib behind it. Wasn't it this one that you said had the new rubber roof? Or was that one of the others you were looking at? I would look into high strength epoxy cement for the panels but that is me. I have had FAR too many problems with roof leaks coming in from the tiniest holes and penetrations in both RV's and boats. Ok, just went back through the posts and I see it was the Allegro that had the new roof. Well, You have been around RV's for long enough to know about leaks.
I contacted Winnebago Industries today, and they assured me that the roof is fiberglass. But I decided not to mount ANYthing to our "new" pristine roof. So I put the solar panels up for sale on Craigslist, in the Tallahassee and Panama City, Florida areas, and the Dothan, Alabama area. If they don't sell before we have to leave, then the nice folks who bought the Holiday Rambler will have the bonus of pre-installed 730 watts of solar power (we are taking the Morningstar MPPT 60 amp charge controller, and all the breakers,etc. to use with a new system I'm going to design). We can fit the 2 newest deep cycle Interstate batteries in our existent battery compartment, and if I feel we need to expand battery life, I'll figure it out later...so 730 watts with just 2 batteries is way overkill. I'm thinking it would be better for us to get two smaller panels, hinged together, to equal about 250 watts, that I can store in a compartment. I can then aim them at the sun at an angle to charge our batteries...and expand the system later on if necessary. Those big household Canadian Solar panels on the roof of the Holiday Rambler are HEAVY!
Kev
So I got a few things done today in the "moving to a new rig" process.
I took our MaxAir vent covers off the Holiday Rambler and thoroughly washed them, and will be installing them on the roof vents of the Itasca on the next day we have that isn't raining. I also transfered our Flagpole Buddy from the HR to the Itasca, and Old Glory is flying over our new home!
I found out directly from Winnebago Industries that the roof of the Itasca is fiberglass, but decided to NOT put the heavy Canadian Solar solar panels on the pristine roof....and put them up for sale on Craigslist. We will be going with a smaller (around 250 watt) portable system that I can aim at the sun later on, using the charge controller we have now.
I measured the battery compartment, and we can easily fit the 2 newest of our Interstate Golf Cart batteries, so I'll be installing those before we leave. I will later on replace them with the very best, highest amp hour deep cycle pair of batteries I can find.
I found a truck tire place just three miles down the road that will only charge me 25 bucks a tire to mount/dismount, and then 15.00 to bean bag balance the two that are going in the Itasca, 130.00 total, so we'll be doing that after New Years Day. I couldn't get the two nuts off the chrome covers, and the local hardware store doesn't have any sockets big enough for those, or for the lug nut wrench...and because the lug nut wrench measured out at 43mm, the rims sure as heck aren't compatible with the P30 rims. (although I will look closely at the spare tomorrow, which hangs on a cable winch system under the front end...if I shimmy under there, I should be able to get an accurate confirmation of the size of the lug holes). I'm going to have the tire guys check the rear tire pressures and air them up, since they are duellys, and don't have extensions (yet) to easily check and air up the inner tires, even if they charge me a bit more. I'll get good extensions later.
I also looked at the box of 6 quarts of transmission fluid I bought, and it is Valvoline Dex/Merc, and it says it is compatible with Dexron III, which is compatible with Dexron II, so we are all set. I topped off the power steering reservoir, which was just under a quart low to bring it back the the full mark. I checked the engine oil, and it is clean and topped off already. The air filter indicator indicates that the air filter is at about half life, so that is good enough to get us to Arizona. I'll check the Allison transmission fluid when we go do the tires, since it needs to be warm and in neutral to check, and it also takes Dexron II, so if it is low, we have 5 more quarts to play with...lol!
I also checked the brake fluid, which needs to be topped off, but isn't too low. Even though the brake fluid reservoir (which is HUGE) is under the wheel well like every other RV we have owned, and there isn't a trap door...they are CLEAR and you can see the level at a glance! And they have screw tops and easy to reach! So I'll top them off before we leave. It takes Dot 3.
I also found brand new wiper blades in a compartment...BONUS!!! I'll be installing them as well before we leave.
Going over the Oshkosh chassis manual, there aren't that many grease fittings, but there are grease fittings on the front wheel bearings. SWEET!!! I'll be greasing all the fittings before we leave as well...and will check and top off, if necessary, the gear oil in the monstrously huge Rockwell rear differential.
I'm also going to replace all four headlights before we leave, since the two on the driver's side are burnt out...but as soon as we can, I'm replacing them with the LED headlights like we have on the Jeep. SUPER bright...just in case we get stuck driving at night.
And at the end of the day, I went down to the local convenience store and bought a bottle of Andre blush champagne, to open tonight at midnight. It is cheap stuff, but Patti likes it!
Patti spent the day cleaning in the new RV, chasing down minor evidence of mice residency, and prepping for the move-in.
Kev
Good to hear all is going well, don't you have the tire changing tools that come with the coach to get the lug nuts off? Do not put a whole lot of faith in the fact that Winnebago says the roof is fiberglass if it looks perfectly smooth. They assured me with no doubts that mine was also, it isn't it is metal. I think the metal roof is a much better option then the fiberglass, that is what is on the Pace Arrow parts unit I have and it is falling apart. The metal would make a perfect base for a rubber roof over it and then you would be set for 15-20 years. I am sending you a PM about the solar panels.
Yep...there are tire changing tools. And the one that takes the nuts off for the wheel covers is flimsy and started to bend and twist, not moving the nuts, which were soaking in PB Blaster for over 48 hours. I don't have any sockets that big. The tire tool itself, a huge thing like we used to have for The Ark with its bias tires, measures out according to the local hardware store at 43mm, and they didn't have any sockets that big, and I certainly don't...and the 2 nuts that hold the chrome wheel covers on are slightly bigger, so the tire tool won't fit on them! My largest crescent wrench wouldn't even fit on them. They are around 44-45 mm.
The roof is definitely not metal. Fiberglass, I'm pretty sure. Like 98% sure, and in excellent clean condition.
Kev
On the Frt wheel bearings make sure you use wheel bearing grease and not chassis lube But you can use the wheel bearing grease on the chassis fittings, See if there is a Harbor freight store around they probably have sockets that big (i have had nothing but good luck with all the Harbor freight Products) Frank
Thanks Frank! I don't think there are any Harbor Freights nearby, but I have had great luck with them as well.
Happy New Year sir! And to Louie as well! Give that adorable little doggo some ear scratches from me and Patti!
Kev
And stop thinking metric! They will be american size I am sure. You know, I started looking at diesel pushers up here just for sh**s and grins and you my man got real lucky!!!!!!!!!! Nothing up here even close to that price range and what is here for 12,000 is junk compared to yours! I am REAL jealous. :)ThmbUp :)ThmbUp :)ThmbUp
44-45 mm is 1 3/4", That is a big lug nut. That is bigger than what is found on tractor trailers! Most tractor trailers use either 1 1/2" or 33 mm.
https://www.ryderfleetproducts.com/studs-and-nuts-c-9881
I just took a close look at your pictures and they are standard wheel covers. Did you pull the lug caps off before trying to take the lug nuts off? Those caps are not supposed to be on there when removing the lug nuts, they just pull straight off. Then the lugs come off and then the wheel covers come off.
This tool would be helpful:
https://www.etrailer.com/Tools/Wheel-Masters/WM8211.html
The chrome lug caps come right off with the gentle nudge of channel locks...lol! I set down a tarp (Florida=Fire Ants) and got under the rig to look at the spare, which hangs under the front end on a cable...you use the other tool that was in the compartment to put through a hole in the front bumper to engage the winch attached to the cable to lower the tire down. It was wobbly, so I tightened it up. The rim is DEFINITELY not compatible with the P30 chassis, and has a completely different SIX large hole pattern. So we will definitely be bringing this to the tire shop three miles down the road, either tomorrow or more likely the next day, to mount and dismount tires.
We got a LOT done today for the move-in transfer to our new home.
Patti steadily kept moving stuff we are definitely going to keep to the new RV all day, while I worked on projects.
The first thing I did today, after my coffee, was to disconnect our 2 newest deep cycle batteries from our system in the HR, and cleaned them thoroughly with baking soda...and install them in the Itasca. I rewired the batteries in the HR so the new owner would still have 4 batteries working perfectly. I installed the new 2 batteries and watered them, and checked the starting battery in the coach, which didn't need any water.
I then exchanged all the LED bulbs we had on the HR to the Itasca, and put the incandescent bulbs from the Itasca back into the HR. We still need quite a few more LED bulbs for the Itasca, but we are good for now.
I then installed the clean vent covers that I took off the HR yesterday and all the hardware onto the Itasca.
Next I exchanged the very expensive AGM starting battery that I JUST bought for the HR, with the 10 year old Optima battery that was in the Jeep...and had to rebuild the positive post on the Jeep, since it broke when trying to put it back together.
And I took off our "Smith" name plate from the HR, and put it on the Itasca (which Patti is going to caulk tomorrow, since I STILL, no matter how hard I try, suck at caulking). It actually matches the Itasca theme decals pretty closely, with a similar pine tree motive.
I changed the wiper blades out as well, with the new ones I found in a compartment.
I also tightened an antenna that was flapping loose on the driver's side, and added another screw to the front fairing, because either one of those was making an annoying clacky sound when we drove the rig to this RV park.
And that was it for today!
Once we actually move in in a few more days, I'll make a new travel post: Florida To Arizona, 2019.
Happy New Year everyone!!!
Kev
Ok, So looking at the pictures it shows ten lug wheel covers. You say the spare is a six lug pattern? What are the wheels on the coach, 6 or 10? If it is a large 6 lug pattern that would be weird since that is used by Isuzu and Hino trucks. If that is the case then be sure to research things like brakes and wheel bearings just in case they are non-standard truck parts.
I think you must be looking at the Holiday Rambler wheel pattern, Rick. The ones on the 95 Itasca are 6 lug, front and back...with pretty large lug bolt holes. I scrambled under the Itasca yesterday to look at the spare, and it is definitely 6 large lug holes.
These are the best two pics I have of the lugs on the Itasca right now, and they are definitely six huge lugs, front and back.
(https://storage.ning.com/topology/rest/1.0/file/get/550516509?profile=original)
(https://storage.ning.com/topology/rest/1.0/file/get/550522495?profile=original)
Kev
This morning we sold the solar panels!!! 2 guys (the guy that bought them, and a buddy of his, nice folks) came and helped me get them off the roof and into their truck. As soon as they left, I went up on the roof and siliconed the holes from the Z bracket screws, so the next owner won't have any leaks.
And then we spent the day shopping for things we need for the new rig, like trailer plug adapters, AC filters, drawer organizers, some LED bulbs, etc.
Depending on the weather tomorrow, I'll be taking off 2 of the good tires from the HR, loading them in the Itasca compartments, and driving the Itasca down to the local truck tire place and having the tires dismounted/remounted on all four rims, and call that project a done deal.
And then there will be more move in/move over work the rest of the day.
Kev
I also figured out which water filter under the sink we need to get for the singular drinking water faucet. None of the RV places in the area had them, not even Camping World...it is an Everpure QC2 filter. I found one on Amazon and bought it, and it will be here by Friday...and it will save us a fortune on buying bottled water. Hard to find though, so once we get back to work, I'll stock up on a few.
Kev
Quote from: ClydesdaleKevin on January 02, 2019, 09:02 PM
I think you must be looking at the Holiday Rambler wheel pattern, Rick. The ones on the 95 Itasca are 6 lug, front and back...with pretty large lug bolt holes. I scrambled under the Itasca yesterday to look at the spare, and it is definitely 6 large lug holes.
These are the best two pics I have of the lugs on the Itasca right now, and they are definitely six huge lugs, front and back.
(https://storage.ning.com/topology/rest/1.0/file/get/550516509?profile=original)
(https://storage.ning.com/topology/rest/1.0/file/get/550522495?profile=original)
Kev
Yup, Wrong again. I am batting zero on the eyesight lately! I can see now the six lugs. I think the brain was programmed for 8 or 10 since the 6 is a foreign vehicle deal. Be sure to ask the guy at the truck place if it is possible that this is a Hino or Isuzu wheel and hub setup. May be the entire chassis?! You used silicone on the holes!!! BAD Kevin! Never use silicone on an RV, Silicone is for interior bathrooms. Always use urethane caulks for the exterior of RV's if you want them to not leak. And with silicone, not only does it not adhere for very long but after it peels off nothing else will adhere to the residue and getting rid of that is a nightmare. Just something to remember for the future with this one.
LOL Rick! Apparently, 6 lugs is standard on Oshkosh chassis from the mid 90s. and I'm just surprised by how big the lug bolts are. Definitely not foreign made. And the silicone was the only sealant I had on hand. I'll tell the new owner to fix it, but at least rain won't leak in for now.
Kev
Somewhere on here I had posted about a geared lug wrench for dealing with those monster lugs. Something you might want to look into once you get back on your feet. I will find it again and post it here. I used to run an old Oshkosh snowplow up in New York but thankfully I never had to change a tire on it. That was a brutal truck, all utility and NO comfort. No radio, barely any wipers which was great on a plow truck with a monster V plow and next to no heat. Oh, the exhaust ran up out of the hood and over the roof and was attached to the roof. HUH! WHAT?
Here is one of them, seems they are coming from China now so there are 20 different names for the same piece. You might have to get a socket that fits but these things will break loose anything with no effort at all.
Guess it would help if I put the link. I will find it again but here is a video of it working. They are not fast but they get the job done. You have to be careful using it to tighten because you could break the lug right off.
https://www.amazon.com/STKUSA-Torque-Multiplier-Saving-Wrench/dp/B07BGQYN9L/ref=asc_df_B07BGQYN9L/?tag=hyprod-20&linkCode=df0&hvadid=312003160272&hvpos=1o5&hvnetw=g&hvrand=3561549639288050161&hvpone=&hvptwo=&hvqmt=&hvdev=c&hvdvcmdl=&hvlocint=&hvlocphy=9003783&hvtargid=pla-571685223777&psc=1
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=B5Ctp89AH58
That looks pretty freakin' awesome, Rick! I went through all my manuals, and I'm not even sure what torque these lugs are supposed to be at. I'll keep this tool in mind! At the very least, I need to buy 2 sockets (preferably impact sockets) before we start our trip out west. One for the 2 skinny nuts that hold the wheel covers on which are slightly bigger than the lug nuts...and one for the lug nuts. The lug wrench measured out at around 43mm at the local hardware store...but of course they didn't have anything that big in stock.
Kev
We got a lot more done today! Patti kept moving stuff in, while I did mechanical and electrical stuff. First thing I did today was install two screen door protectors, upper and lower, to protect the screens for overly excited German Shepherds wanting to go outside. I had to drill 16 extra holes and install 16 extra screws to make sure they were strong (GSD proof), and to ensure they wouldn't rattle on our excursions.
Then I replaced every last light in the RV with LEDs. Most were donors from our old rig, although we had to buy and install 5 more.
Next I went under the rig and zip tied any loose wiring that was hanging down.
And then I plugged in the 6-4 trailer wire adapter and our toad lights...and they all work!!! Good to go!
A previous owner installed 2 PVC pipes to hold sewer hoses under the rig, and I was going to remove them...and then realized the design was actually pretty ingenious! So I cleaned up the install from the PO. Not a bad homemade design at all!
I figured out how to install the TV neatly in the bedroom, and went to Lowes to get what I needed after the rest of today's work was done. While at Lowes, I picked up a cat door to make the opening to the litter box clean and easy on the eyes...it is going into the dead space behind one of the dinette drawers.
I also replaced the outdoor shower hardware, and replaced the interior shower hose and shower head.
The new rig has a HUGE double closet in the bedroom, so I installed a serviceable wooden rack in the back of the closet to hold the rifles and shotgun and our two fishing poles, and then cleaned the long guns, and brought them over to their new home.
While at Camping World yesterday, I bought the replacement knob for the Carefree awning rafter (with the little metal bit it screws into), but I'm not going to replace the knob until we are ready to put out the awning again...once we are back home in Arizona.
Still need to get two drawer organizers for the kitchen.
And finally, at the end of the day, I jacked up the Holiday Rambler and removed the two newest tires and rims from the HR, and put it up on jack stands. And then loaded the tires and rims into a compartment on the Itasca. I have an appointment first thing in the morning with a tire shop down the road to dismount all 4 tires, install my good tires on the Itasca with beanbag balancing, and installing the old tires from the front of the Itasca onto the HR's P30 rims. They quoted me around 100 bucks for the whole job. Sweet!
Moving into a new rig, as a fulltimer, is a process! But it sure is fun and rewarding!
Kev
Now isn't this better than sitting around in Arizona being bored? W% ;) :)rotflmao :)rotflmao
Glad to see it is all coming together. Don't forget the biocide, you don't want that stuff getting into the pump or injectors.
LOL Rick! We're almost done. We should be able to leave on Monday the 7th, right on schedule.
Kev
We Have enjoyed (without all the pain) Your newest adventure , Its like being there Good Luck and Best wishes on a new Chapter in your adventures , Hey You could write a book about full time living with all the advantages and dis advantages Have Fun Frank & Louie !
I think the reason were enjoying you adventure and trials and tribulations is because we've all been there. We can identify what your going through. So when you succeed we get to share the accomplishments with you. Sit Down, Strap In and Hang On the Newest and Greatest Adventure is about to begin. Blue Sky's and Tailwinds. :)ThmbUp
Thanks Frank and LJ-TJ! This sure has been an exhausting new chapter! More to follow!!!
Kev
So the guy that bought the old Holiday Rambler is coming tomorrow with a tow truck to take The Nautilus away to her new home. He was supposed to come on Sunday, but understandably rescheduled because the tow company that was going to tow the rig on Sunday over 180 miles wanted to charge him 1200.00, while the company that will do it tomorrow quoted him at less than half that.
So the mad scramble has begun, since we lost a day, and I got tied up at the tire shop this morning until almost 1PM.
Yesterday I loaded my two newest Sampson tires and P30 rims into the Itasca compartments, thinking I was going to just rim swap, and bead balance the ones going on the Itasca. Alas it was not to be! I left to go to the tire shop early this morning in the Itasca, and was there when they opened at 8am. And that is when I got the bad news...one Sampson tire had a bubble forming on the side wall (I forget what they called it, a pocket, a bump?), and I could feel it. And they both had a date code of 2001! Which means the folks that sold me the tires a few years ago ripped me off, and they were sitting in a warehouse for years!
The date code on the cracked and checkered front tires was from 1994, which means they were probably the original tires! No bueno! And the spare had a date code from 1990, and was also abysmally cracked and checkered. So we decided to get two new tires for the front, and replace the spare with the Sampson tire that didn't have a bump. They had to call in to get two new 8r-19.5 Sumitomo tires, made in Japan, delivered as soon as possible, which ended up being around noon. The date code on the new tires was 2018, and the date code on the good tires in the back, also 8r-19.5 Sumitomo tires, was 2015. SWEET! I didn't want to spend the extra money, but these were the FRONT tires, and we are traveling 2000 miles starting on Monday.
I checked the transmission fluid while it was warm and in idle, and it was perfect! I also topped off the brake fluid in both reservoirs. While the wheels were off, I checked the brake pads in the front, and they are obviously brand new! Even the paint on the pads looks brand new.
While waiting, I took the headlights off the driver's side of the coach, and walked down to the local auto parts store, and they matched them up for me. I bought all 4 headlights, walked back, and installed them. All lights work now, and they are nice and bright!
While I was out and about, Patti kept getting things ready to move and throwing out old stuff, etc.
When I got home at 1PM, I started attacking projects, while Patti kept going with moving things. The first thing I had to do was cut the hole for Sampson's litter box door under the dinette, and install the door frame. It looks great, a clean install.
Then I installed the tires I got back from the tire shop back onto the Holiday Rambler. And put all the tools away. And then I offloaded all the toolboxes and whatnot out of the Jeep and into the Itasca compartments.
I also installed the new under sink water filter I bought...no leaks! And no more need to buy gallons of drinking water!
I then switched out the antenna heads from the HR to the Itasca, since I know the one on the HR works and is digital, and put the one from the Itasca on the HR.
I then roughly designed how I was going to mount the flat screen TV in the bedroom when the guy who bought the Holiday Rambler called, and said he was coming tomorrow instead of Sunday. Oi Vey!!!
So after working until sundown, and I drove to Marianna, FL in the Jeep to procure a truck bed cargo net (to keep the German Shepherds off the NEW dash), a new cheap litter box for the kitty that will fit better than his old one, and a laundry basket at a dollar store to help us to move stuff even faster tomorrow.
So it is a mad scramble now, not knowing when him and his tow truck driver are going to show up tomorrow! At first dawn, I'll be just emptying our old rig, throwing a lot of stuff out, and leaving stuff for the new owner that might be usable to him.
Patti has been a steady rock through the whole process, moving things over and organizing as she goes.
Tomorrow is going to be hectic! Wish us luck!!!
Kev
I have complete faith in you two. Things will be done and soon you can enjoy your new home. Just drive carefully and keep in touch.
Thanks Joan! I was very negligent in keeping everyone posted, mostly because I didn't think anyone wanted to hear the same old travel stories. But I found out who my real friends are after getting booted from Facebook and Twitter for being a "Russian bot." Alleged friends kept reporting my political posts on both platforms...but we don't talk politics on Classic Winnebagos, and that is awesome! There is a reason my dad always said to never talk politics or religion at the dinner table. Here on Classic Winnebagos, we talk vintage RVs and adventures and life...as it should be. I won't be absent much anymore. Thank you all!!!
Kev
I finally caught up on this thread. Sorry to hear about your troubles. While I do not believe that every bad thing happens "for a reason", God does a wonderful job of bringing good out of bad. I have seen it over and over in my life. I know what it is like to be stranded with a major failure far from my home, shop and tools, having to rely on others. It is no fun. Last year my 4 speed auto swapped 1976 lost the transmission 60 miles south of Kingman, AZ, needing a rebuild in Kingman. It resulted in a week living in my coach in the back bull pen of a transmission shop. Then I lost the rebuild again in Mesquite, NV forcing me to limp it home on a 3 speed back to Boise. As with you, I considered looking for another coach at that time but decided against it. I figured I would be just buying someone else's troubles and since mine only centered around the transmission, in an otherwise fully sorted rig, I stuck with it and now the problems are sorted. At least I hope, heading to Las Vegas during spring break, that will be the real test.
Like you stated, it is always a good idea to check the date code of tires when you buy them. While in storage in a warehouse unloaded the rubber does not degrade as fast, I would not buy tires that are over a year old.
Sounds like everything else is working for you. When you get it home, it would be prudent to take the next few months and fully service it from front to rear. Change every fluid, make sure everything is adjusted, replace belts, and give it a general deep service. That way you have a great baseline.
Good luck with the rest of your trip.
Thanks Sasquatch! The old Holiday Rambler had a LOT of issues aside from just the transmission going out. It is going to someone who will restore it and using it for weekend trips here and there...but its days as a fulltime RV for thousands of miles every year are at an end.
Kev
Oh! I forgot to mention this in my last post yesterday when I had the tires changed: On our 95 Oshkosh chassis, the lug nuts AND the nuts that hold on the chrome covers are REVERSE THREADED on the driver's side, just like out first RV, the iconic "Ark" 1972 Futura motorhome with the Dodge chassis and split rim bias tires! No wonder I couldn't get the darn things off...lol!!! I also forgot to mention that I found out the lug nut size and the size of the nut that holds on the chrome covers: Lug nuts=1 1/2" , Cover nuts: 1 5/8" I'm going to have to go out and but those 2 sockets, in 1/2 inch drive, before we leave to Arizona.
Kev
You would be better off to go to Harbor freight and get a 3/4" drive breaker bar or ratchet and the correct sockets. That is just too big for 1/2" drive and you will never get the torque on or off that you need.
Good LORD was today an epic day of hard work! We started work unloading more stuff from the Holiday Rambler today at 7am since we didn't know what time the buyer was coming by with his tow truck driver to take the HR away, so we just set our noses to the grindstone, and hammered it out.
I had to take out my Morningstar charge controller and pure sine Dimensions inverter, and relocate the Powermax Boondocker to inside the compartment where the charge controller used to be...that way it wouldn't be on the floor under the dinette for the new owner.
I also cleaned out the Nature's Head toilet, changed the peat moss, put the clean pee bottle on it, and filled the not clean pee bottle with cleaning strength vinegar, with the cap on it and left it capped in the shower.
The buyer called us around 8:30, and told us he would be here with the tow truck driver at 10:30 am! So the mad scramble became an insane scramble!!!
I started just putting things from each cabinet carefully into trash bags and bringing them over to the Itasca and setting them outside, while Patti would offload what was in the bags and clean them before bringing them into the new house.
Thank God they showed up late, around 2pm! They showed up just as I was taking the very last of our things out of the very last of the under compartments. Whew!!!
So the Holiday Rambler was picked up and taken away, and the guy called me when he got home. They made it safely and parked the HR, and he had some questions about how to lower the power steps, the fridge and water heater and water pump, etc. and I walked him through it on the phone. So The Nautilus will live on! He also forgot the spare house key and gas key, so I got his address and will mail the keys out on Monday.
We put as much away as we could until it got dark, and called it a night. There are still many bags and cases on the porch that we will go through and put away tomorrow, but ran out of steam for tonight. Tomorrow we are going to go through it all, bag by bag and case by case, throwing out what we don't want, and cleaning what we do want before putting it in the new RV. We just didn't have time to sort things during the offload process today. We have plenty of time now, since we don't have to be on the road by Monday (we were just informed that the Arizona Renaissance Festival doesn't start until February 9th) so that gives us plenty of time to meander out there, and gives us time to sort and clean what we are going to keep.
I did take 9 full large trash bags to the dumpster today...lol! And there will be more tomorrow! Probably at least as many!
So we are exhausted and our furry kids are mostly settled in. Sampson the cat and Karli are loving it...Paladin is nervous and isn't quite sure what is going on...lol! He's sleeping at my feet now, so he'll get used to it. When he gets nervous or anxious, he likes to chase his tail, so it doesn't help that the living room (with a couch and chair we didn't have in the HR) isn't really big enough for him to turn full circle while chasing his tail. Poor guy! He'll adapt in no time.
Good LORD am I exhausted! Lots more to do over the next few days, since we decided to leave on Wednesday or Thursday instead of Monday.
It is weird getting used to a regular RV toilet again. But since we are so used to peeing sitting down and putting TP in the lidded small trash can next to the toilet, it is actually going to be a joy...LOL! THAT my friends is the key to Bathroom Bliss in RVs...always pee sitting down, and always put your TP in the trash can next to the toilet.
And thank God that the weather here is supposed to be nice and totally rain free for the next 4 days! SWEET!!!
I'm going to make a new post tomorrow entitled Florida to Arizona, 2019. And will stop making new posts on this thread. Although I will of course answer any post that anyone puts on this thread.
2019 looks like it is going to be an AWESOME year!!!
Kev
Quote from: Rickf1985 on January 05, 2019, 07:55 PM
You would be better off to go to Harbor freight and get a 3/4" drive breaker bar or ratchet and the correct sockets. That is just too big for 1/2" drive and you will never get the torque on or off that you need.
My electric Kobalt impact driver is 1/2 inch, and the tire shop's impact driver didn't seem to have any problem getting the lugs off. The reverse threading is what threw me off, since I thought only old Dodge chassis with split rims and bias tires were reverse threaded.
Kev
Check the torque rating on those lugs and BE SURE to check them down the road! I think you will find it is in the 300ft/lb. range at least.
You are correct Rick! I just looked it up in the Oshkosh manual that came with the motorhome. The torque specs for the lug nuts are 450-500 ft pounds. Good grief! I think I will definitely HAVE to invest in one of those torque multipliers!
Kev
I wonder if there is a significant difference in the quality of the 65.00 ones on Amazon, and the 160.00 ones from the YouTube video you posted, Rick?
http://lugwrench.biz/buy.htm
Hi Kev, I think for the little bit of time you will need it the cheaper ones are just as good (Tire shops on the other hand may need the better product ) I would go with the higher multiplier ,But i also use a pipe on my brakerbar. Strength also decreases as we age !And you may never need it anyway . Frank Have an enjoyable trip as you learn about your new ride/home !
Thank you Frank!
Kev
Been on the road all day, I think the cheaper ones will be just fine. All it is is a planetary gearset, nothing magical about it. In the meantime if you want to get a socket just remember how torque works. 100 lbs on the end of a one foot long bar is 100 ft/lbs. So if you are 200 lbs. and you have a 2 1/2 foot long bar and you sit on the end of it you have 500 foot/lbs of torque. Not dead exact but close enough for checking the nuts. Don't bounce in it since that will increase the torque substantially.
Thanks Rick! I called the guys that did the tires today, and they assured me that the 1 inch drive air tool they used WAS an air driven torque multiplier (they do semi and other big truck and tractor tires all the time), and said I shouldn't worry on this trip. When they checked the rear tire air pressure, they had to take the chrome covers off, and threw their air tool on the rear tires as well. Good shop! They have been in business for over 40 years, Cottondale Chevron.
I am SO going to have to get one of these tools though! Once we are back in Arizona and making money again, it will happen.
Kev
Hey, Kevin :), sorry to see that the Nataulis finally reached the end of the road in a horrendous way, but glad she's not on her way to the junk yard just yet.