Complete newbie seeking advice
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08-17-2006, 08:53
Post: #1
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Complete newbie seeking advice
Hi Folks,
I'm looking to buy a nice coach and stumbled across an '83 Wanderlodge on eBay (item #140017325224). I was incredibly impressed with the list of features and the huge capacities! The "modern" RVs we've looked at don't come close! I mean, 200+ gallon fuel tanks; 12+kw generators; 3 A/C units and 50 amp electrical service; remote door locking, heated waste tanks, etc, etc. I am very, very impressed. However, I don't like the layout of this particular coach - my wife and I don't sleep in separate beds and I'm not fond of the bathroom taking up the center area (seems claustrophobic to me) - but this really got me looking at the Wanderlodge coaches. From looking at other ads, I think I want a PT 40. My budget is modest: I prefer to spend around $30k, though I can stretch to $50k for the right coach. As you can guess, I have a lot of questions. 1. Can someone orient me a bit? Tell me the ups and downs of buying an early eighties Wanderlodge. What should I expect? Do the various systems hold up? Seems like a lot of parts to go wrong; do these coaches tend to be money pits, or can the old parts be expected to, by and large, last for another 20 plus years? Should I expect to do a lot of work on an old coach like this, or can I simply enjoy it with only the occasional maintenance and repair item? 2. Do most of the models in this era have such an extensive list of features as indicated in that eBay auction? 3. I've noticed many of the ads are showing rebuilt engines at ~100k miles. What's with that? I thought these diesels ran "forever"? 4. How do these drive? I have a '66 Dodge Travco 27' I'll be getting rid of if I buy a newer coach. It's a great rig but I get real tired after traveling for a few hours, which isn't fun. I can drive my SUV for a dozen or more hours virtually non-stop; I ought to be able to do the same with an RV, right? Local RV dealers tell me I'll have the same problem with any coach made before about 1999. Of course, they may just want to sell me a new rig. Thank you all for your time. Perhaps I will become a proud new Bluebird owner one of these days. -Ryan |
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08-17-2006, 11:37
Post: #2
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Complete newbie seeking advice
Ryan,
Welcome to the world of "Wanderlodge" If you like toys- you have 'landed' I have owned a few RV's and Really like my Wanderlodge a lot! I went and seen this coach (the one on e-bay) Tuesday,not too far away -- and it is nice.. Lots of new upgrades.. Seems to have had a lot of items changed out to new. He was putting in a new color backup camera while I was there. Picture looked awesome! I did the same on mine, but I put in a LCD TV overhead.. Not sure exactly what your looking for (especially for your first time in a Bus) however, the FC's are a great place to start. I have owned mine for about 6 months, and still learning about some of the systems, ect.. My previous was a Fleetwood Southwind. Needless to say, quite a difference. As far as a "center Bathroom" I like it. It's actually nice to come in the front door, and go straight into the bathroom from outside on the patio! Really nice when entertaining others- not to have everyone tracking through the coach to use the restroom! You will find when "camping" with a group of non-bird owners everyone likes to hang out at the bus. No engine problems here yet.. Most engine problems occur as you may well know, from poor maintenance, or overheating, not from miles. I have spoke to several people who have worked on these 3208 CAT's in Dumptrucks with 9-10,000 HRS on them, still strong hauling TONS of DIRT.. We use our coaches only on occasion.. hopefully to last a longtime.. My hour meter just over 3,000 HRS. As with any RV-new unexpected. Or get out $$$ for a new one- either way. However, I like tinkering and upgrading mine personally- as do most im sure on this forum. Good luck- Stephen Hare 81 FC-33 SB Plant City, FL _____ From: WanderlodgeForum@yahoogroups.com [mailto:WanderlodgeForum@yahoogroups.com] On Behalf Of Ryan Wright Sent: Thursday, August 17, 2006 4:53 PM To: wanderlodgeforum@yahoogroups.com Subject: [WanderlodgeForum] Complete newbie seeking advice Hi Folks, I'm looking to buy a nice coach and stumbled across an '83 Wanderlodge on eBay (item #140017325224). I was incredibly impressed with the list of features and the huge capacities! The "modern" RVs we've looked at don't come close! I mean, 200+ gallon fuel tanks; 12+kw generators; 3 A/C units and 50 amp electrical service; remote door locking, heated waste tanks, etc, etc. I am very, very impressed. However, I don't like the layout of this particular coach - my wife and I don't sleep in separate beds and I'm not fond of the bathroom taking up the center area (seems claustrophobic to me) - but this really got me looking at the Wanderlodge coaches. From looking at other ads, I think I want a PT 40. My budget is modest: I prefer to spend around $30k, though I can stretch to $50k for the right coach. As you can guess, I have a lot of questions. 1. Can someone orient me a bit? Tell me the ups and downs of buying an early eighties Wanderlodge. What should I expect? Do the various systems hold up? Seems like a lot of parts to go wrong; do these coaches tend to be money pits, or can the old parts be expected to, by and large, last for another 20 plus years? Should I expect to do a lot of work on an old coach like this, or can I simply enjoy it with only the occasional maintenance and repair item? 2. Do most of the models in this era have such an extensive list of features as indicated in that eBay auction? 3. I've noticed many of the ads are showing rebuilt engines at ~100k miles. What's with that? I thought these diesels ran "forever"? 4. How do these drive? I have a '66 Dodge Travco 27' I'll be getting rid of if I buy a newer coach. It's a great rig but I get real tired after traveling for a few hours, which isn't fun. I can drive my SUV for a dozen or more hours virtually non-stop; I ought to be able to do the same with an RV, right? Local RV dealers tell me I'll have the same problem with any coach made before about 1999. Of course, they may just want to sell me a new rig. Thank you all for your time. Perhaps I will become a proud new Bluebird owner one of these days. -Ryan [Non-text portions of this message have been removed] |
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08-17-2006, 12:32
Post: #3
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Complete newbie seeking advice
I can answer part of your question. I went from a 71 Travco 220 to an
82 Bluebird FC this year. The Bird definitely has a more comfortable ride than the Travco, but it's not like driving a car. 8hrs on the road in the Bird is comparable to 12 hrs on the road in a car. (or something like that). 'Diesels last forever' is a myth. The fact that they last longer than gas engines means there is more of a possibility that problems that might not become fatal, have opportunity to do so. The 3208's in the early 80's models are pretty robust but are relatively small engines for the load they are carrying. Perhaps it would be good to start a database here on the number of miles people have gotten from their 3208's before rebuild. I'd be surprised if the average was near 200k but I might be wrong. But I think even with this qualifier, you'd be much better off with a 3208 than a 318, 413 or 440. More systems, more maintenance. Kerry 82 FC 35 Denver --- In WanderlodgeForum@yahoogroups.com, "Ryan Wright" > > Hi Folks, > > I'm looking to buy a nice coach and stumbled across an '83 Wanderlodge > on eBay (item #140017325224). I was incredibly impressed with the list > of features and the huge capacities! The "modern" RVs we've looked at > don't come close! I mean, 200+ gallon fuel tanks; 12+kw generators; 3 > A/C units and 50 amp electrical service; remote door locking, heated > waste tanks, etc, etc. I am very, very impressed. > > However, I don't like the layout of this particular coach - my wife > and I don't sleep in separate beds and I'm not fond of the bathroom > taking up the center area (seems claustrophobic to me) - but this > really got me looking at the Wanderlodge coaches. From looking at > other ads, I think I want a PT 40. My budget is modest: I prefer to > spend around $30k, though I can stretch to $50k for the right coach. > > As you can guess, I have a lot of questions. > > 1. Can someone orient me a bit? Tell me the ups and downs of buying an > early eighties Wanderlodge. What should I expect? Do the various > systems hold up? Seems like a lot of parts to go wrong; do these > coaches tend to be money pits, or can the old parts be expected to, by > and large, last for another 20 plus years? Should I expect to do a lot > of work on an old coach like this, or can I simply enjoy it with only > the occasional maintenance and repair item? > > 2. Do most of the models in this era have such an extensive list of > features as indicated in that eBay auction? > > 3. I've noticed many of the ads are showing rebuilt engines at ~100k > miles. What's with that? I thought these diesels ran "forever"? > > 4. How do these drive? I have a '66 Dodge Travco 27' I'll be getting > rid of if I buy a newer coach. It's a great rig but I get real tired > after traveling for a few hours, which isn't fun. I can drive my SUV > for a dozen or more hours virtually non-stop; I ought to be able to do > the same with an RV, right? Local RV dealers tell me I'll have the > same problem with any coach made before about 1999. Of course, they > may just want to sell me a new rig. > > Thank you all for your time. Perhaps I will become a proud new > Bluebird owner one of these days. > > -Ryan > |
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08-17-2006, 12:33
Post: #4
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Complete newbie seeking advice
Hello Ryan,
Err...yeah!, hope I don't offend you here. First, there is a rear bath FC (Front Coach)coach '70-80's models where you would not be claustrophobic, but it would have twin beds, sorry! Second, if $50K is going to be a stretch for you as you say, you are not going to find a PT (Pusher Tag) it in the '90's models. The coach on Ebay seems to be an excellent entry level Blue Bird with repairs and current maintenace, however, if it's not what you want, it won't work ever. My suggestion for you is to read the posts on this and other Wanderlodge Forums, keep an eye on the Vintagebirds.com, Birdconnection.com, and search the web using "Wanderlodge. Become as familiar as you possibly can with all the features, prices, etc. Lastly, unless you do your own maintenance, you need to be prepared with a "substantial" budget to cover things that just happen with any RV, Blue Bird not excluded. Welcome to this forum, hope I haven't shattered any of you enthusiasm for a Blue Bird. Bob Janes, '87 FC35, Greenville, SC --- In WanderlodgeForum@yahoogroups.com, "Ryan Wright" > > Hi Folks, > > I'm looking to buy a nice coach and stumbled across an '83 Wanderlodge > on eBay (item #140017325224). I was incredibly impressed with the list > of features and the huge capacities! The "modern" RVs we've looked at > don't come close! I mean, 200+ gallon fuel tanks; 12+kw generators; 3 > A/C units and 50 amp electrical service; remote door locking, heated > waste tanks, etc, etc. I am very, very impressed. > > However, I don't like the layout of this particular coach - my wife > and I don't sleep in separate beds and I'm not fond of the bathroom > taking up the center area (seems claustrophobic to me) - but this > really got me looking at the Wanderlodge coaches. From looking at > other ads, I think I want a PT 40. My budget is modest: I prefer to > spend around $30k, though I can stretch to $50k for the right coach. > > As you can guess, I have a lot of questions. > > 1. Can someone orient me a bit? Tell me the ups and downs of buying an > early eighties Wanderlodge. What should I expect? Do the various > systems hold up? Seems like a lot of parts to go wrong; do these > coaches tend to be money pits, or can the old parts be expected to, by > and large, last for another 20 plus years? Should I expect to do a lot > of work on an old coach like this, or can I simply enjoy it with only > the occasional maintenance and repair item? > > 2. Do most of the models in this era have such an extensive list of > features as indicated in that eBay auction? > > 3. I've noticed many of the ads are showing rebuilt engines at ~100k > miles. What's with that? I thought these diesels ran "forever"? > > 4. How do these drive? I have a '66 Dodge Travco 27' I'll be getting > rid of if I buy a newer coach. It's a great rig but I get real tired > after traveling for a few hours, which isn't fun. I can drive my SUV > for a dozen or more hours virtually non-stop; I ought to be able to do > the same with an RV, right? Local RV dealers tell me I'll have the > same problem with any coach made before about 1999. Of course, they > may just want to sell me a new rig. > > Thank you all for your time. Perhaps I will become a proud new > Bluebird owner one of these days. > > -Ryan > |
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08-17-2006, 12:37
Post: #5
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Complete newbie seeking advice
You have asked many good questions. Some are easy, some more
difficult. Some just a persons opinion. I will answer a few. Start to read the Forums, lots of info available, also review http://vintagebirds.com/ especially the classified, the check list and history. Wanderlodge sales at http://www.birdconnection.com/ will list all the option available and asking prices. BlueBirds are very durable , and repairable, all parts are available. It will take some of your time and money to repair , upgrade and make it your own Bird. This is true of any 20 year old machine. THese forums are very helpful and BB still supports these motorhomes. The engine problems are usually neglect and poor ongoing maintenance. That is a start, Bill 88 FC Michigan --- In WanderlodgeForum@yahoogroups.com, "Ryan Wright" > > Hi Folks, > > I'm looking to buy a nice coach and stumbled across an '83 Wanderlodge > on eBay (item #140017325224). I was incredibly impressed with the list > of features and the huge capacities! The "modern" RVs we've looked at > don't come close! I mean, 200+ gallon fuel tanks; 12+kw generators; 3 > A/C units and 50 amp electrical service; remote door locking, heated > waste tanks, etc, etc. I am very, very impressed. > > However, I don't like the layout of this particular coach - my wife > and I don't sleep in separate beds and I'm not fond of the bathroom > taking up the center area (seems claustrophobic to me) - but this > really got me looking at the Wanderlodge coaches. From looking at > other ads, I think I want a PT 40. My budget is modest: I prefer to > spend around $30k, though I can stretch to $50k for the right coach. > > As you can guess, I have a lot of questions. > > 1. Can someone orient me a bit? Tell me the ups and downs of buying an > early eighties Wanderlodge. What should I expect? Do the various > systems hold up? Seems like a lot of parts to go wrong; do these > coaches tend to be money pits, or can the old parts be expected to, by > and large, last for another 20 plus years? Should I expect to do a lot > of work on an old coach like this, or can I simply enjoy it with only > the occasional maintenance and repair item? > > 2. Do most of the models in this era have such an extensive list of > features as indicated in that eBay auction? > > 3. I've noticed many of the ads are showing rebuilt engines at ~100k > miles. What's with that? I thought these diesels ran "forever"? > > 4. How do these drive? I have a '66 Dodge Travco 27' I'll be getting > rid of if I buy a newer coach. It's a great rig but I get real tired > after traveling for a few hours, which isn't fun. I can drive my SUV > for a dozen or more hours virtually non-stop; I ought to be able to do > the same with an RV, right? Local RV dealers tell me I'll have the > same problem with any coach made before about 1999. Of course, they > may just want to sell me a new rig. > > Thank you all for your time. Perhaps I will become a proud new > Bluebird owner one of these days. > > -Ryan > |
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08-17-2006, 12:40
Post: #6
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Complete newbie seeking advice
You have asked many good questions. Some are easy, some more
difficult. Some just a persons opinion. I will answer a few. Start to read the Forums, lots of info available, also review http://vintagebirds.com/ especially the classified, the check list and history. Wanderlodge sales at http://www.birdconnection.com/ will list all the option available and asking prices. BlueBirds are very durable , and repairable, all parts are available. It will take some of your time and money to repair , upgrade and make it your own Bird. This is true of any 20 year old machine. THese forums are very helpful and BB still supports these motorhomes. The engine problems are usually neglect and poor ongoing maintenance. That is a start, Bill 88 FC Michigan --- In WanderlodgeForum@yahoogroups.com, "Ryan Wright" > > Hi Folks, > > I'm looking to buy a nice coach and stumbled across an '83 Wanderlodge > on eBay (item #140017325224). I was incredibly impressed with the list > of features and the huge capacities! The "modern" RVs we've looked at > don't come close! I mean, 200+ gallon fuel tanks; 12+kw generators; 3 > A/C units and 50 amp electrical service; remote door locking, heated > waste tanks, etc, etc. I am very, very impressed. > > However, I don't like the layout of this particular coach - my wife > and I don't sleep in separate beds and I'm not fond of the bathroom > taking up the center area (seems claustrophobic to me) - but this > really got me looking at the Wanderlodge coaches. From looking at > other ads, I think I want a PT 40. My budget is modest: I prefer to > spend around $30k, though I can stretch to $50k for the right coach. > > As you can guess, I have a lot of questions. > > 1. Can someone orient me a bit? Tell me the ups and downs of buying an > early eighties Wanderlodge. What should I expect? Do the various > systems hold up? Seems like a lot of parts to go wrong; do these > coaches tend to be money pits, or can the old parts be expected to, by > and large, last for another 20 plus years? Should I expect to do a lot > of work on an old coach like this, or can I simply enjoy it with only > the occasional maintenance and repair item? > > 2. Do most of the models in this era have such an extensive list of > features as indicated in that eBay auction? > > 3. I've noticed many of the ads are showing rebuilt engines at ~100k > miles. What's with that? I thought these diesels ran "forever"? > > 4. How do these drive? I have a '66 Dodge Travco 27' I'll be getting > rid of if I buy a newer coach. It's a great rig but I get real tired > after traveling for a few hours, which isn't fun. I can drive my SUV > for a dozen or more hours virtually non-stop; I ought to be able to do > the same with an RV, right? Local RV dealers tell me I'll have the > same problem with any coach made before about 1999. Of course, they > may just want to sell me a new rig. > > Thank you all for your time. Perhaps I will become a proud new > Bluebird owner one of these days. > > -Ryan > |
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08-17-2006, 12:46
Post: #7
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Complete newbie seeking advice
Ryan,
Sorry if this is a double post, Yahoo and my computer are playing tricks tonight. You have asked many good questions. Some are easy, some more difficult. Some just a persons opinion. I will answer a few. Start to read the Forums, lots of info available, also review http://vintagebirds.com/ especially the classified, the check list and history. Wanderlodge sales at http://www.birdconnection.com/ will list all the options available and asking prices. BlueBirds are very durable , and repairable, all parts are available. It will take some of your time and money to repair , upgrade and make it your own Bird. This is true of any 20 year old machine. THese forums are very helpful and BB still supports these motorhomes. The engine problems are usually neglect and poor ongoing maintenance. That is a start, Bill 88 FC Michigan --- In WanderlodgeForum@yahoogroups.com, "Ryan Wright" > > Hi Folks, > > I'm looking to buy a nice coach and stumbled across an '83 Wanderlodge > on eBay (item #140017325224). I was incredibly impressed with the list > of features and the huge capacities! The "modern" RVs we've looked at > don't come close! I mean, 200+ gallon fuel tanks; 12+kw generators; 3 > A/C units and 50 amp electrical service; remote door locking, heated > waste tanks, etc, etc. I am very, very impressed. > > However, I don't like the layout of this particular coach - my wife > and I don't sleep in separate beds and I'm not fond of the bathroom > taking up the center area (seems claustrophobic to me) - but this > really got me looking at the Wanderlodge coaches. From looking at > other ads, I think I want a PT 40. My budget is modest: I prefer to > spend around $30k, though I can stretch to $50k for the right coach. > > As you can guess, I have a lot of questions. > > 1. Can someone orient me a bit? Tell me the ups and downs of buying an > early eighties Wanderlodge. What should I expect? Do the various > systems hold up? Seems like a lot of parts to go wrong; do these > coaches tend to be money pits, or can the old parts be expected to, by > and large, last for another 20 plus years? Should I expect to do a lot > of work on an old coach like this, or can I simply enjoy it with only > the occasional maintenance and repair item? > > 2. Do most of the models in this era have such an extensive list of > features as indicated in that eBay auction? > > 3. I've noticed many of the ads are showing rebuilt engines at ~100k > miles. What's with that? I thought these diesels ran "forever"? > > 4. How do these drive? I have a '66 Dodge Travco 27' I'll be getting > rid of if I buy a newer coach. It's a great rig but I get real tired > after traveling for a few hours, which isn't fun. I can drive my SUV > for a dozen or more hours virtually non-stop; I ought to be able to do > the same with an RV, right? Local RV dealers tell me I'll have the > same problem with any coach made before about 1999. Of course, they > may just want to sell me a new rig. > > Thank you all for your time. Perhaps I will become a proud new > Bluebird owner one of these days. > > -Ryan > |
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08-17-2006, 13:10
Post: #8
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Complete newbie seeking advice
Ryan,
The ride and driving ability are far and about a Travco. BlueBirds are heavy busses with air suspention, air brakes, and huge tires. They are a joy to drive and the trucks will not blow these machines around. Hold back some of your budget for repairs and upgrades and it will last another 20+ years. Bill 88 FC --- In WanderlodgeForum@yahoogroups.com, "Ryan Wright" > > Hi Folks, > > I'm looking to buy a nice coach and stumbled across an '83 Wanderlodge > on eBay (item #140017325224). I was incredibly impressed with the list > of features and the huge capacities! The "modern" RVs we've looked at > don't come close! I mean, 200+ gallon fuel tanks; 12+kw generators; 3 > A/C units and 50 amp electrical service; remote door locking, heated > waste tanks, etc, etc. I am very, very impressed. > > However, I don't like the layout of this particular coach - my wife > and I don't sleep in separate beds and I'm not fond of the bathroom > taking up the center area (seems claustrophobic to me) - but this > really got me looking at the Wanderlodge coaches. From looking at > other ads, I think I want a PT 40. My budget is modest: I prefer to > spend around $30k, though I can stretch to $50k for the right coach. > > As you can guess, I have a lot of questions. > > 1. Can someone orient me a bit? Tell me the ups and downs of buying an > early eighties Wanderlodge. What should I expect? Do the various > systems hold up? Seems like a lot of parts to go wrong; do these > coaches tend to be money pits, or can the old parts be expected to, by > and large, last for another 20 plus years? Should I expect to do a lot > of work on an old coach like this, or can I simply enjoy it with only > the occasional maintenance and repair item? > > 2. Do most of the models in this era have such an extensive list of > features as indicated in that eBay auction? > > 3. I've noticed many of the ads are showing rebuilt engines at ~100k > miles. What's with that? I thought these diesels ran "forever"? > > 4. How do these drive? I have a '66 Dodge Travco 27' I'll be getting > rid of if I buy a newer coach. It's a great rig but I get real tired > after traveling for a few hours, which isn't fun. I can drive my SUV > for a dozen or more hours virtually non-stop; I ought to be able to do > the same with an RV, right? Local RV dealers tell me I'll have the > same problem with any coach made before about 1999. Of course, they > may just want to sell me a new rig. > > Thank you all for your time. Perhaps I will become a proud new > Bluebird owner one of these days. > > -Ryan > |
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08-17-2006, 13:17
Post: #9
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Complete newbie seeking advice
Ryan, there is a site with good info on all the Wanderlodge models.
http://vintagebirds.com/ Oh,, and the separate bed issue is why so many wanderlodge owners are happy. My issue is a totaly different kinda happy. I think the engines get rebuilt at the hint of a problem because the total coach value can absorb a reduild investment and many owners need the secure feeling of 'Remanufactured' in place of 'repaired'. Most of the need for repairs to the engines are due to heat and probably never due to being worn out. Go to a rally, Gregory O'Connor 94ptRomolandCa In WanderlodgeForum@yahoogroups.com, "Ryan Wright" wrote: > > Hi Folks, > > I'm looking to buy a nice coach and stumbled across an '83 Wanderlodge > on eBay (item #140017325224). I was incredibly impressed with the list > of features and the huge capacities! The "modern" RVs we've looked at > don't come close! I mean, 200+ gallon fuel tanks; 12+kw generators; 3 > A/C units and 50 amp electrical service; remote door locking, heated > waste tanks, etc, etc. I am very, very impressed. > > However, I don't like the layout of this particular coach - my wife > and I don't sleep in separate beds and I'm not fond of the bathroom > taking up the center area (seems claustrophobic to me) - but this > really got me looking at the Wanderlodge coaches. From looking at > other ads, I think I want a PT 40. My budget is modest: I prefer to > spend around $30k, though I can stretch to $50k for the right coach. > > As you can guess, I have a lot of questions. > > 1. Can someone orient me a bit? Tell me the ups and downs of buying an > early eighties Wanderlodge. What should I expect? Do the various > systems hold up? Seems like a lot of parts to go wrong; do these > coaches tend to be money pits, or can the old parts be expected to, by > and large, last for another 20 plus years? Should I expect to do a lot > of work on an old coach like this, or can I simply enjoy it with only > the occasional maintenance and repair item? > > 2. Do most of the models in this era have such an extensive list of > features as indicated in that eBay auction? > > 3. I've noticed many of the ads are showing rebuilt engines at ~100k > miles. What's with that? I thought these diesels ran "forever"? > > 4. How do these drive? I have a '66 Dodge Travco 27' I'll be getting > rid of if I buy a newer coach. It's a great rig but I get real tired > after traveling for a few hours, which isn't fun. I can drive my SUV > for a dozen or more hours virtually non-stop; I ought to be able to do > the same with an RV, right? Local RV dealers tell me I'll have the > same problem with any coach made before about 1999. Of course, they > may just want to sell me a new rig. > > Thank you all for your time. Perhaps I will become a proud new > Bluebird owner one of these days. > > -Ryan > |
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08-17-2006, 14:12
Post: #10
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Complete newbie seeking advice
Ryan,
All I can suggest is that you read the Wonderlodge forums, ask questions, and look at the âfor saleâ adds. There are many nice units available, and many that need work. I just purchased a 1978 that is mechanically sound but needs some cosmetic work. Two days later a 1978 came up for sale that was garage kept with a rebuilt engine for very little more than I paid. Keep looking at the âfor saleâ units and read all you can on the forum. I am convinced that an older Wanderlodge is a real good coach, but be prepared to maintain it. The layout is very well planned, and there is a lot of useful storage, The FC (front control) coaches are loud inside when running, but you can hold a conversation. If you want quiet, you want a pusher. Gardner 78FC33 -----Original Message----- From: WanderlodgeForum@yahoogroups.com [mailto:WanderlodgeForum@yahoogroups.com]On Behalf Of Gregory OConnor Sent: Thursday, August 17, 2006 9:18 PM To: WanderlodgeForum@yahoogroups.com Subject: [WanderlodgeForum] Re: Complete newbie seeking advice Ryan, there is a site with good info on all the Wanderlodge models. http://vintagebirds.com/ <http://vintagebirds.com/> Oh,, and the separate bed issue is why so many wanderlodge owners are happy. My issue is a totaly different kinda happy. I think the engines get rebuilt at the hint of a problem because the total coach value can absorb a reduild investment and many owners need the secure feeling of 'Remanufactured' in place of 'repaired'. Most of the need for repairs to the engines are due to heat and probably never due to being worn out. Go to a rally, Gregory O'Connor 94ptRomolandCa In WanderlodgeForum@yahoogroups.com wrote: > > Hi Folks, > > I'm looking to buy a nice coach and stumbled across an '83 Wanderlodge > on eBay (item #140017325224). I was incredibly impressed with the list > of features and the huge capacities! The "modern" RVs we've looked at > don't come close! I mean, 200+ gallon fuel tanks; 12+kw generators; 3 > A/C units and 50 amp electrical service; remote door locking, heated > waste tanks, etc, etc. I am very, very impressed. > > However, I don't like the layout of this particular coach - my wife > and I don't sleep in separate beds and I'm not fond of the bathroom > taking up the center area (seems claustrophobic to me) - but this > really got me looking at the Wanderlodge coaches. From looking at > other ads, I think I want a PT 40. My budget is modest: I prefer to > spend around $30k, though I can stretch to $50k for the right coach. > > As you can guess, I have a lot of questions. > > 1. Can someone orient me a bit? Tell me the ups and downs of buying an > early eighties Wanderlodge. What should I expect? Do the various > systems hold up? Seems like a lot of parts to go wrong; do these > coaches tend to be money pits, or can the old parts be expected to, by > and large, last for another 20 plus years? Should I expect to do a lot > of work on an old coach like this, or can I simply enjoy it with only > the occasional maintenance and repair item? > > 2. Do most of the models in this era have such an extensive list of > features as indicated in that eBay auction? > > 3. I've noticed many of the ads are showing rebuilt engines at ~100k > miles. What's with that? I thought these diesels ran "forever"? > > 4. How do these drive? I have a '66 Dodge Travco 27' I'll be getting > rid of if I buy a newer coach. It's a great rig but I get real tired > after traveling for a few hours, which isn't fun. I can drive my SUV > for a dozen or more hours virtually non-stop; I ought to be able to do > the same with an RV, right? Local RV dealers tell me I'll have the > same problem with any coach made before about 1999. Of course, they > may just want to sell me a new rig. > > Thank you all for your time. Perhaps I will become a proud new > Bluebird owner one of these days. > > -Ryan > [Non-text portions of this message have been removed] |
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