Considering purchace of '76 PB

[mr.c]

get to the international and see lots of coaches and get lots of ideas. It does
look good. I don't know about engine oit. how many miles? Did not see why air
bags are a problem. Does the leveling up/down work?
Windows look like new. Mine have some milky wear over time. Looks nice from
the pictures.
good job on pictures.
al

> Hello again. About one week ago I asked some questions about a GMC motorhome
> I'm considering. The feedback I got was great. Just to keep you guys up to
> date I'm still very much interested in the Motorhome. I took some pictures
> of the GMC this afternoon and posted them to:
>
> http://members.aol.com/gmcmotor/gmcmh.html
>
> I don't know what you can tell from the pictures but if you don't mind and
> have the time I would appreciate any feedback.
>
> I've checked out the frame (per previous response) and think it's good.
> There is surface rust on it but nothing severe that I can see/feel, should I
> have a pro look at it?
>
> I've checked most things out, still some more to be done. I also have a few
> more questions.
>
> (1) OEM steering wheel and front seats. How much are average replacements,
> drivers seat that reclines (nothing fancy)? Also, I read somewhere about a
> passenger seat that seats two? Anyone have one of these, or are they
> available somewhere?
>
> (2) Steering has some play in it but the MH drives straight, is this an easy
> fix.
>
> (3) I've been following this list for the last week and noted the cost of Air
> Bag replacement parts. I'm guessing this is a common item that needs
> replacing, is this a DIY job? How does one check the operation of the Air
> Bags? Is there a way to seal leaky bags?
>
> (4) I live in South East, MN, Are any of you GMC experts around here and
> willing to come inspect this GMC?
>
> (5) Is the Rally in Iowa open to wanna be GMC owners?
>
> I'm hoping to make an offer soon, so maybe I will be an owner. I think
> $14,000 is fair (maybe good) any comments?
>
> Thanks in advance.
> PS Wife is starting to like the MH more and more.
>
> Chris Taylor
> GMC Wanna Be
> Rochester, MN

 

[mr.c]

If pump works, like you said, every few minutes, then you might have an air
leack. It might be the bags, or the fittings. So don't worry, they're all
fixable. In the roundup in Albuq in Oct, the consumate expert on the Air system,
Duane Simmons is putting on his famous Air seminar. A real treat as you will
learn all you ever wanted to know, or not know, about the air system.
al

> To all: thanks for the advice so far.
> I took the four responses from the list so far and included them here (hope
> this isn't a problem)....I got some direct responses as well.
>
> Scott:
> The camera: EPSON Calario (PhotoPC 600). Max resolution 1024x768 although
> the pics of the GMC are 640x480 and compressed to be more web friendly. I
> like the camera (it's about 2 yrs old now though). I would love to attend
> the Rally and take pics for everyone. I might even have a new camera by then
> (deal pending).
>
> The pics of the outside may look better than the actual, I would say it's in
> good condition, some stripe problems minor fiberglass damage and fading, but
> I wouldn't have to do anything to it. Everytime I look I like it more.
>
> The wet spot in the pics is from recent rains. No radiator leaks that I'm
> aware of. The oil pan is really oily. The top of the engine looks clean. No
> oil underneath on the ground? I am a little concerned with the CV joint
> (thus the pic) I'm trying to get a mechanic go through the motorhome sometime
> soon. The Onan has 324 hours and starts easily and appears very clean. The
> air bags do level the coach, when in Auto mode when sitting still (don't know
> if this is proper) the compressor cycles every couple of minutes (that's why
> I though there might be a leak or something. Maybe I should try to level
> then set in hold and see how long it holds? I'll check the frame with a
> hammer, your web-site is nice, thanks for the advice.
>
> Wayne:
> We've been looking at motorhomes for more money but like what we see in the
> GMC. I don't want to spend more money than I have too. My mechanic brother
> tells me new or old I'll be dumping money into a motorhome. He works on at
> least one GMC (I wouldn't classify him as a GMC expert but I think he's a
> good mechanic. He owns Flushing Service Center in Flushing, MI (near Flint)
> - Chuck Taylor.
>
> Thanks for the advice on the steering box (It seems like it's just an
> adjustment thing so this will probably work).
>
> Miles are just about 52K, seems all original, interior in excellent shape
> except for the carpet, exterior see the pics. Everything seems to work,
> except cab air is weak (common). Exhaust is new (sounds like small leak at
> manifold. Starts easily, plenty of power, rides nice (a little paly in the
> steering). Roof air works good. No leaks. Generator starts easily runs
> smooth. Currently at a small RV Park/Dealer (has 10 or so used units), from
> what I can tell the GMC had two previous owners (North Dokota then Rochester,
> MN). Doesn't appear to have been used as a camper much. I haven't looked at
> many GMCs (In fact this is the only one I've actually been in) but it seems
> to be in very good shape.
> Asking price is 17K but he's already indicated he would take $14,500, 15,500
> with a 90 day warranty on the MH stuff (pumps, fridge, gen, etc). Like I
> said I'm getting close to a final offer. Thanks for the input.
>
> Al; Don't know that the air bags are a problem just want to know how to test
> them. I'm not too worried about replacing them but just want to know up
> front if they need to be replace to negotiate. Seems like the only way to
> test is to play with them.
>
> Paul; Thanks for the contact, I'll try looking them up the afternoon.
>
> Date: Mon, 23 Aug 1999 01:09:51 EDT
> From: Adohen
> Subject: Re: GMC: Considering purchace of '76 PB
>
> In a message dated 8/23/99 12:31:15 AM Eastern Daylight Time,

>
> >> http://members.aol.com/gmcmotor/gmcmh.html
>
> >Hi Chris!
>
> >What camera did you use to take pictures? Good show! Sure looks nice from
> the
> >outside. The one picture of the CV joint looks like it might be broken,
> >there is quite a bit of grease in the area, from spinning around. The
> >radiator looks like it has a leak from the wet spots. The engine looks kinda
> >dirty and oily--I'd look for oil leaks. I don't know what they are asking
> but
> >offer them less than what your thinking, you can always raise your offer.
> >Have you tried the Onan and all the other things out inside the coach? I
> >would check the frame out with a hammer, especially inside behind the rear
> >tires. (be careful not to hit the air lines) . Listen for a nice pinging
> >sound--no thuds! If there is some question as to where to look for rust go
> >to my website. Odds
> >and Ends (Bogie Frame Repair) (New POSTS).
>
> >Scott NEHODA'S
> >BACK YARD
>
> >------------------------------
>
> >Date: Mon, 23 Aug 1999 01:19:19 -0400
> >From: Wayne Newland
> >Subject: Re: GMC: Considering purchace of '76 PB
>
> >Chris
>
> >Nice set of pictures. From what I can see,it looks good.
>
> >Answers:
> >1- How deep are your pockets. Wait until you have some experience before
> going
> >and throwing a lot of money at nice to have things. Flex-steel makes nice
> seets,
> >at several price ranges.
> >2- See the postings of today...re: adjusting the steering box.
> >3-Yes you can replace them yourself, if you have a big wrench and some
> patience.
> >Make sure that you have a set of service manuals and parts book from
> Cinnebar.
> >4-?
> >5- Send money. It is THE place to learn fast and drain your bank account so
> >easy.
> >6-If it runs, and the air bags inflate and the compressor stops running, it's
> >probably worth the money. You didn't mention the milage.
> >7-If you decide to pass, let the net know where it is, and someone will snap
> it
> >up.
>
> >Wayne Newland F9300 75 Palm Beach
> ******************************************************
> >Date: Sat, 23 Jan 1999 00:29:25 -0700
> >From: "mr.c"
> >Subject: Re: GMC: Considering purchace of '76 PB
>
> >get to the international and see lots of coaches and get lots of ideas. It
> does
> >look good. I don't know about engine oit. how many miles? Did not see why
> air
> >bags are a problem. Does the leveling up/down work?
> >Windows look like new. Mine have some milky wear over time. Looks nice from
> >the pictures.
> >good job on pictures.
> >al
> ********************************************************
> >Chris:
>
> >Looking in the GMC Motorhomes International roster, there is an owner listed
> >in Rochester you could contact: Bob & Marie Mesarchik. Are they in your
> >local phone book? I know another one in Lake George, however it does not
> >show up in my atlas (so I don't know how close it is to you), if you need.
>
> > Paul Bartz

 

[richard waters]

The one you are looking at sounds a little like mine. Except mine
had 122,000 miles on it.

> Hello, I'm considering the purchase of a '76 Palm Beach 26'. The motor home
> appears to be all original with 52K miles. It's in good shape for a '76.
> Everything seems to work but I have a few questions.
>
> 1.) What gas mileage should one expect with the 455?

It seems like I get someplace between 7.5 and 10 MPG depending
on driving speed and if the Onan is running.

> What about when towing a
> second vehicle
>

I have not towed yet. I'm considering that in the future, but lots of people
tow.

>
> 2.) When in "auto" mode and the coach is parked should you expect the
> compressor to run every once in a while or should? How does one make sure it
> is operating properly?

Your '76 PB must be newer then mine. I don't have an "Auto" mode. Mine has
"Travel", "Raise", "Lower" and "Hold". The pump does not cycle when parked
and the ignition is off. My pump will run for a short time every hour or so when

traveling. It runs for a few minutes the first time I turn the ignition to "on"
I think
there is a leak someplace near the air tank. The bags never leak down. Can be a
couple of months and they still don't settle.

I'm sorry I can't tell you how to make sure your system
is running properly. Someone else will chime in and tell you.

>
>
> 3.) The fridge is AC/DC only. Will it cool when traveling without the
> generator running while cruising? How long before the battery is drained.

I have the same fridge. When driving it gets all it seems to need from the
engine alternator. I've parked for 2 days and not run the batteries down. So
you don't need to run the Onan to keep the fridge running. I am planning on
getting a 3-way fridge so that I can run on propane as well as electricity.
Those
old fridges are really not that suited to running on 12 volts when parked for
extended periods of time without recharging the batteries.

>
> 4.) Is there a list of common problems or things to check out before buying?

I'm not an expert, but the frame seems to be an area of major concern. I think
the
frame could be a "show stopper" if it is rusted enough. It is a major job to
repair
the frame. One coach I looked at just had a frame repaired and the guy had a
$7,000
repair bill to show for it!

The Engine, transmission and final drive are of course things to look at.
I think someone has a web site with a complete list of things to look at.

>
>
> 5.) What is a good price range for this type of vehicle?

I paid $13,500 for mine last year. Again it had 122,000 miles on it but
otherwise
was in pretty good shape. The previous owner took good care of it. I think I
paid a fair price, maybe a little lower then market value because the owner was
moving out of state and couldn't take it with him.

>
>
> The cab A/C was only moderately cool (might need a recharge), Single roof air
> works.

I think the dash A/C units are marginal. It is a big space to cool and that
small
evaporator can only do so much.

>
> Tires are new
> Outside is slightly faded, stripe is slightly damaged (wife doesn't care for
> the color), one place of minor body damage by generator cover (about golf
> ball size).
> Everything on the inside is in very nice shape except the carpet which is
> decent.
>

We didn't care for the interior and exterior at all when we bought it. It has
grown on us however. It is not so bad when you get used to it. We do have
plans on a paint job, new upholstery and carpeting in the next few years. Places

like Cinnabar will do all that for about $10,000.

I just got done putting in a new headliner and day/night shades. I also painted
all
the plastic trim pieces and the front and rear plastic headliner. Doing that has
really
improved the appearance. I have about $1200 invested with lots of time.

> Everything looks to be well cared for but don't have history.
> Generator is Onan 6K Watt.
>
> Also just out of curiosity if anyone has had one of these redone what was the
> cost?
> Paint? Interior?
>
> Thanks in advance.

I hope this helps. These opinions are mine and may not represent what other
owners may say about their rigs.
Richard Waters '76 PB, Troy, MI

 

[marlene meineken]

http://www.california.com/~eagle/
Here is a great site for looking for all your answers, Has everything you
ever wanted to know.

Marlene and Bud Meineken
Idaho
New owners of 77 Palm beach

- ----- Original Message -----
From: Richard Waters
To:
Sent: Monday, August 16, 1999 2:23 PM
Subject: Re: GMC: Considering purchace of '76 PB

> The one you are looking at sounds a little like mine. Except mine
> had 122,000 miles on it.
>

>
> > Hello, I'm considering the purchase of a '76 Palm Beach 26'. The motor
home
> > appears to be all original with 52K miles. It's in good shape for a
'76.
> > Everything seems to work but I have a few questions.
> >
> > 1.) What gas mileage should one expect with the 455?
>
> It seems like I get someplace between 7.5 and 10 MPG depending
> on driving speed and if the Onan is running.
>
> > What about when towing a
> > second vehicle
> >
>
> I have not towed yet. I'm considering that in the future, but lots of
people
> tow.
>
> >
> > 2.) When in "auto" mode and the coach is parked should you expect the
> > compressor to run every once in a while or should? How does one make
sure it
> > is operating properly?
>
> Your '76 PB must be newer then mine. I don't have an "Auto" mode. Mine
has
> "Travel", "Raise", "Lower" and "Hold". The pump does not cycle when
parked
> and the ignition is off. My pump will run for a short time every hour or
so when
>
> traveling. It runs for a few minutes the first time I turn the ignition
to "on"
> I think
> there is a leak someplace near the air tank. The bags never leak down.
Can be a
> couple of months and they still don't settle.
>
> I'm sorry I can't tell you how to make sure your system
> is running properly. Someone else will chime in and tell you.
>
> >
> >
> > 3.) The fridge is AC/DC only. Will it cool when traveling without the
> > generator running while cruising? How long before the battery is
drained.
>
> I have the same fridge. When driving it gets all it seems to need from
the
> engine alternator. I've parked for 2 days and not run the batteries down.
So
> you don't need to run the Onan to keep the fridge running. I am planning
on
> getting a 3-way fridge so that I can run on propane as well as
electricity.
> Those
> old fridges are really not that suited to running on 12 volts when parked
for
> extended periods of time without recharging the batteries.
>
> >
> > 4.) Is there a list of common problems or things to check out before
buying?
>
> I'm not an expert, but the frame seems to be an area of major concern. I
think
> the
> frame could be a "show stopper" if it is rusted enough. It is a major job
to
> repair
> the frame. One coach I looked at just had a frame repaired and the guy
had a
> $7,000
> repair bill to show for it!
>
> The Engine, transmission and final drive are of course things to look at.
> I think someone has a web site with a complete list of things to look at.
>
> >
> >
> > 5.) What is a good price range for this type of vehicle?
>
> I paid $13,500 for mine last year. Again it had 122,000 miles on it but
> otherwise
> was in pretty good shape. The previous owner took good care of it. I
think I
> paid a fair price, maybe a little lower then market value because the
owner was
> moving out of state and couldn't take it with him.
>
> >
> >
> > The cab A/C was only moderately cool (might need a recharge), Single
roof air
> > works.
>
> I think the dash A/C units are marginal. It is a big space to cool and
that
> small
> evaporator can only do so much.
>
> >
> > Tires are new
> > Outside is slightly faded, stripe is slightly damaged (wife doesn't care
for
> > the color), one place of minor body damage by generator cover (about
golf
> > ball size).
> > Everything on the inside is in very nice shape except the carpet which
is
> > decent.
> >
>
> We didn't care for the interior and exterior at all when we bought it. It
has
> grown on us however. It is not so bad when you get used to it. We do
have
> plans on a paint job, new upholstery and carpeting in the next few years.
Places
>
> like Cinnabar will do all that for about $10,000.
>
> I just got done putting in a new headliner and day/night shades. I also
painted
> all
> the plastic trim pieces and the front and rear plastic headliner. Doing
that has
> really
> improved the appearance. I have about $1200 invested with lots of time.
>
>
>
> > Everything looks to be well cared for but don't have history.
> > Generator is Onan 6K Watt.
> >
> > Also just out of curiosity if anyone has had one of these redone what
was the
> > cost?
> > Paint? Interior?
> >
> > Thanks in advance.
>
> I hope this helps. These opinions are mine and may not represent what
other
> owners may say about their rigs.
> Richard Waters '76 PB, Troy, MI
>
>
>

 

[marlene meineken]

My message to you went to another post but I am sure you will see it.
Marlene Meineken

- ----- Original Message -----
From:
To:
Sent: Monday, August 16, 1999 1:41 PM
Subject: GMC: Considering purchace of '76 PB

>
> Hello, I'm considering the purchase of a '76 Palm Beach 26'. The motor
home
> appears to be all original with 52K miles. It's in good shape for a '76.
> Everything seems to work but I have a few questions.
>
> 1.) What gas mileage should one expect with the 455? What about when
towing a
> second vehicle
>
> 2.) When in "auto" mode and the coach is parked should you expect the
> compressor to run every once in a while or should? How does one make sure
it
> is operating properly?
>
> 3.) The fridge is AC/DC only. Will it cool when traveling without the
> generator running while cruising? How long before the battery is drained.
>
> 4.) Is there a list of common problems or things to check out before
buying?
>
> 5.) What is a good price range for this type of vehicle?
>
> The cab A/C was only moderately cool (might need a recharge), Single roof
air
> works.
> Tires are new
> Outside is slightly faded, stripe is slightly damaged (wife doesn't care
for
> the color), one place of minor body damage by generator cover (about golf
> ball size).
> Everything on the inside is in very nice shape except the carpet which is
> decent.
> Everything looks to be well cared for but don't have history.
> Generator is Onan 6K Watt.
>
> Also just out of curiosity if anyone has had one of these redone what was
the
> cost?
> Paint? Interior?
>
> Thanks in advance.
>
>
>
>
>
>
>

 

[gary miller]

You have asked some very wise questions. In receiving answers bear in mind that
coaches vary considerably so there are no "pat answers".

> Hello, I'm considering the purchase of a '76 Palm Beach 26'. The motor home
> appears to be all original with 52K miles. It's in good shape for a '76.
> Everything seems to work but I have a few questions.
>
> 1.) What gas mileage should one expect with the 455? What about when towing a
> second vehicle

> I get about 8.5 mpg overal and I tow a Tracker most of the time.

> 2.) When in "auto" mode and the coach is parked should you expect the
> compressor to run every once in a while or should? How does one make sure it
> is operating properly?
>

The pump will run occasionaly (how often depends on the tightness of the air
system) to build up the tank pressure to 125# +/-. Running 30 seconds every 1/2
hour is not uncommon. The system will not level the coach until you put the
trans in drive. You should also be traveling on the road so that irregularities
are averaged out in the leveling process. Many (most) people travel in the
"hold" mode after an innitial leveling time (3-4 minutes) in "auto".

> 3.) The fridge is AC/DC only. Will it cool when traveling without the
> generator running while cruising? How long before the battery is drained.
>

Yes, it works just fine while traveling in the DC mode. When dry camping (no
shore power) the drain is fairly heavy on the batteries with the original Norcold
refrigerator. Mine (2 -6v golf cart batteries in series) will keep running for
48 hours with normal use of lights and radio. But of course it depends on the
age and size of your batteries and the outside temperature.

> 4.) Is there a list of common problems or things to check out before buying?
>

There may be some lists around. Do the normal "used vehicle" checks. Leaks are
always a pain to find. Look for rotten plywood floors under the bathroom, under
the water tanks, under the kitchen sink, inside the gen and propane areas. Be
sure and look at the frame for rust, particularly where the rear wheels attach
and particularly if your coach has "lived" in the road salt part of the country.
Rotten floors and rotten frames are BIG jobs to fix.

> 5.) What is a good price range for this type of vehicle?
>

For an average good coach (everything runs, no rot, no rusted frame) expect to
pay $16,000 to $19,000. Expect to put $3000 with it when you get the coach to
fix it up to your minimum standards.

> The cab A/C was only moderately cool (might need a recharge), Single roof air
> works.
> Tires are new

Most people feel more comfortable with E load range rather than D range. Alcoa
wheels are preferred by most.

> Outside is slightly faded, stripe is slightly damaged (wife doesn't care for
> the color), one place of minor body damage by generator cover (about golf
> ball size).

Expect to pay $4000 minimum for a decent paint job. Many of us have paid nearly
twice that amount. The stripes are %$&@#@%% to remove and the adhesive remaining
is even worse.

> Everything on the inside is in very nice shape except the carpet which is
> decent.
> Everything looks to be well cared for but don't have history.
> Generator is Onan 6K Watt.

Can be a source of great aggrivation if it is not running properly.

>
>
> Also just out of curiosity if anyone has had one of these redone what was the
> cost?
> Paint? Interior?

aint -- see above. Interior has no limits. Just figure out the total square
footage of the walls, ceiling, and floor; double it; then figure out how many
$100 bills it will take to cover that area and you will be close. But of course
that can take years and years to "finish".

>
>
> Thanks in advance.

If you have half the fun that most of us have with our "ladies", then you will
indeed be a very happy man.
Gary
North Bend, Oregon Coast

 

[richard waters]

Scott,
Yes the frame repair was pretty extensive. He had the side rails and the
bogie frame redone. He had it done at Cinnabar. I didn't buy that
coach because he wanted more then what I bought my Palm Beach for.

I said I frame work is a major repair after looking at what Cinnabar
had done and what you did. I can't imagine doing a frame off! My hat's
off to you!

I still have to deal with a R&R of my holding tank which I'm sure
has a leak!
Richard

> In a message dated 8/16/99 5:23:10 PM Eastern Daylight Time, digitek

>
> > I think the frame could be a "show stopper" if it is rusted enough. It is a
> major job
> > to repair the frame. One coach I looked at just had a frame repaired and
> the guy > > had a $7,000 repair bill to show for it!
>
> Hi Richard!
> Did this person replace the side rails and have to fix the bogie frame?
> $7,000 seems pretty reasonable. I think you are aware I'm doing that and have
> some webpages dealing with replacing side rails, etc.
>
> They are NEHODA'S
> BACK YARD , http://members.aol.com/whatslh/bizcard/index.htm t=_self] HREF="http://members.aol.com/whatslh/bizcard/index.htm">GMC FRAME OFF[/url] ,
> and Zak has one, http://smsgmc.webjump.com t=_self]Zak's Project[/url] and
> there is one by Lynwood Arthur
> HREF="http://www.gmcclassics.com/tech/larthur/index.html">http://www.gmcclassi
> cs.com/tech/larthur/index.html
>
> Also Cinnabar in there latest newsletter had an extensive article on frame
> replacement.
>
> YES YES, look at the frame very good before buying----I know better now---I
> might have taken it for free but to spend good money for one--it sucks!!!!!
>
> Scott INSIDE GMC
> PHOTOS(sound on?)
>
>

 

[wayne newland]

Chris

Nice set of pictures. From what I can see,it looks good.

Answers:
1- How deep are your pockets. Wait until you have some experience before going
and throwing a lot of money at nice to have things. Flex-steel makes nice seets,
at several price ranges.
2- See the postings of today...re: adjusting the steering box.
3-Yes you can replace them yourself, if you have a big wrench and some patience.
Make sure that you have a set of service manuals and parts book from Cinnebar.
4-?
5- Send money. It is THE place to learn fast and drain your bank account so
easy.
6-If it runs, and the air bags inflate and the compressor stops running, it's
probably worth the money. You didn't mention the milage.
7-If you decide to pass, let the net know where it is, and someone will snap it
up.

Wayne Newland F9300 75 Palm Beach

> Hello again. About one week ago I asked some questions about a GMC motorhome
> I'm considering. The feedback I got was great. Just to keep you guys up to
> date I'm still very much interested in the Motorhome. I took some pictures
> of the GMC this afternoon and posted them to:
>
> http://members.aol.com/gmcmotor/gmcmh.html
>
> I don't know what you can tell from the pictures but if you don't mind and
> have the time I would appreciate any feedback.
>
> I've checked out the frame (per previous response) and think it's good.
> There is surface rust on it but nothing severe that I can see/feel, should I
> have a pro look at it?
>
> I've checked most things out, still some more to be done. I also have a few
> more questions.
>
> (1) OEM steering wheel and front seats. How much are average replacements,
> drivers seat that reclines (nothing fancy)? Also, I read somewhere about a
> passenger seat that seats two? Anyone have one of these, or are they
> available somewhere?
>
> (2) Steering has some play in it but the MH drives straight, is this an easy
> fix.
>
> (3) I've been following this list for the last week and noted the cost of Air
> Bag replacement parts. I'm guessing this is a common item that needs
> replacing, is this a DIY job? How does one check the operation of the Air
> Bags? Is there a way to seal leaky bags?
>
> (4) I live in South East, MN, Are any of you GMC experts around here and
> willing to come inspect this GMC?
>
> (5) Is the Rally in Iowa open to wanna be GMC owners?
>
> I'm hoping to make an offer soon, so maybe I will be an owner. I think
> $14,000 is fair (maybe good) any comments?
>
> Thanks in advance.
> PS Wife is starting to like the MH more and more.
>
> Chris Taylor
> GMC Wanna Be
> Rochester, MN

 

[bartz paul]

Chris:

Looking in the GMC Motorhomes International roster, there is an owner listed
in Rochester you could contact: Bob & Marie Mesarchik. Are they in your
local phone book? I know another one in Lake George, however it does not
show up in my atlas (so I don't know how close it is to you), if you need.

Paul Bartz

From: mr.c [mailto:mr.c]
Sent: Saturday, January 23, 1999 2:29 AM
Subject: Re: GMC: Considering purchace of '76 PB

get to the international and see lots of coaches and get lots of ideas. It
does
look good. I don't know about engine oit. how many miles? Did not see why
air
bags are a problem. Does the leveling up/down work?
Windows look like new. Mine have some milky wear over time. Looks nice
from
the pictures.
good job on pictures.
al

> Hello again. About one week ago I asked some questions about a GMC
motorhome
> I'm considering. The feedback I got was great. Just to keep you guys up
to
> date I'm still very much interested in the Motorhome. I took some
pictures
> of the GMC this afternoon and posted them to:
>
> http://members.aol.com/gmcmotor/gmcmh.html
>
> I don't know what you can tell from the pictures but if you don't mind and
> have the time I would appreciate any feedback.
>
> I've checked out the frame (per previous response) and think it's good.
> There is surface rust on it but nothing severe that I can see/feel, should
I
> have a pro look at it?
>
> I've checked most things out, still some more to be done. I also have a
few
> more questions.
>
> (1) OEM steering wheel and front seats. How much are average
replacements,
> drivers seat that reclines (nothing fancy)? Also, I read somewhere about a
> passenger seat that seats two? Anyone have one of these, or are they
> available somewhere?
>
> (2) Steering has some play in it but the MH drives straight, is this an
easy
> fix.
>
> (3) I've been following this list for the last week and noted the cost of
Air
> Bag replacement parts. I'm guessing this is a common item that needs
> replacing, is this a DIY job? How does one check the operation of the Air
> Bags? Is there a way to seal leaky bags?
>
> (4) I live in South East, MN, Are any of you GMC experts around here and
> willing to come inspect this GMC?
>
> (5) Is the Rally in Iowa open to wanna be GMC owners?
>
> I'm hoping to make an offer soon, so maybe I will be an owner. I think
> $14,000 is fair (maybe good) any comments?
>
> Thanks in advance.
> PS Wife is starting to like the MH more and more.
>
> Chris Taylor
> GMC Wanna Be
> Rochester, MN

 

[blank]

> My mechanic brother tells me new or old I'll be dumping
> money into a motorhome.

Chris,

Your brother is absolutely right.
The difference is, with the GMC you may actually recoup some of that money.
Clean, well-maintained and updated GMC's hold their own pretty well against
depreciation. Still, be sure that you can handle the extra care these
ladies demand.

Patrick