General Information???

[ralph d. edelbach]

I'm new to this mailing list because my wife and I are considering
buying a 1973 26' GMC Motorhome and need some expert advice from current
owners. We have always been impressed with the appearance of these units
and now we may decide to buy one -- if not right now some time in the
near future.

The unit we're considering looks to be in good condition with 79,000
miles with the original engine transmission combination. Items redone
include refrigerator, rear suspension air bags, air compressor for air
bags, front tires. It has a top storage compartment and heat pump
system as well as the 6 KV Onan generator which runs well. The owner
took us for a ride and I was impressed with how it handled and rode. I
didn't drive it but will if we decide to get more serious. He is asking
$13,500 and I don't know if that is a fair price or not.

The overall condition is very good original with no obvious damage or
abuse. The body has no apparent collision damage and the paint, while it
needs compounding and wax, is in good shape. Since I do a lot of work on
various types of cars for a hobby, I feel confident that I can handle
most mechanical problems short of rebuilding the Olds engine or
transmission if need be.( I have rebuilt Jaguar engines but don't find
that kind of effort worth the time any more.)

By searching Yahoo and Lycos, I found a number of web sites with good
information but I'd also like to hear from any owners about the
following subjects:

1. Any particular problems with various mechanical or cosmetic
components which should be closely examined?
2. Availability of major parts and repair items and sources.
3. Information about towing limit weights and tow bars available for
the motorhome?
4. Other facts or items to consider before becoming an owner?
5. Approximate mileage on the interstate?

I don't believe the current owner has much if any of the original
paperwork or documentation but I suppose that is available from various
sources today.

We're looking forward to hearing from any owners who are willing to
offer their advice. It will certainly be appreciated. Thank you very
much!

 

[homebase1]

My only surprise after purchasing was the need for ft. wheel bearings
and lower ball joints. I'd suggest these are "must check" items.
After that, we were able to put 13000 miles on in the first year.
See Ya
MikeB

 

[1]

In a message dated 97-11-30 13:40:01 EST, you write:

 

[michael g. linderman]

Ralph

I have a 1976 GMC Eleganza II with 116,000 miles on it. It was/is 100%
original. it has dual roof air/ 26 ft/ barrel chairs on the drivers side
rear / and many more options

Parts are not an issue with Cinnabar retainig the rights to GM inventory.
They do a newsletter too.

Also there is a publication called GMC Motorhome Marketplace which is
devoted to the GMC.

Let me know if I can help

I paid 10,000 for my GMC three years ago in Cincinnati, Ohio

Bought it as a project, figured it would take 3-5 years to rebuild and then
I would feel comfortable travelling in the coach. These coaches are 25 years
old.

Mike Linderman

- -----Original Message-----
From: Ralph D. Edelbach
To: A - GMC Motorhomes
Date: Sunday, November 30, 1997 1:46 PM
Subject: GMC: General Information???

>I'm new to this mailing list because my wife and I are considering
>buying a 1973 26' GMC Motorhome and need some expert advice from current
>owners. We have always been impressed with the appearance of these units
>and now we may decide to buy one -- if not right now some time in the
>near future.
>
>The unit we're considering looks to be in good condition with 79,000
>miles with the original engine transmission combination. Items redone
>include refrigerator, rear suspension air bags, air compressor for air
>bags, front tires. It has a top storage compartment and heat pump
>system as well as the 6 KV Onan generator which runs well. The owner
>took us for a ride and I was impressed with how it handled and rode. I
>didn't drive it but will if we decide to get more serious. He is asking
>$13,500 and I don't know if that is a fair price or not.
>
>The overall condition is very good original with no obvious damage or
>abuse. The body has no apparent collision damage and the paint, while it
>needs compounding and wax, is in good shape. Since I do a lot of work on
>various types of cars for a hobby, I feel confident that I can handle
>most mechanical problems short of rebuilding the Olds engine or
>transmission if need be.( I have rebuilt Jaguar engines but don't find
>that kind of effort worth the time any more.)
>
>By searching Yahoo and Lycos, I found a number of web sites with good
>information but I'd also like to hear from any owners about the
>following subjects:
>
> 1. Any particular problems with various mechanical or cosmetic
>components which should be closely examined?
> 2. Availability of major parts and repair items and sources.
> 3. Information about towing limit weights and tow bars available for
>the motorhome?
> 4. Other facts or items to consider before becoming an owner?
> 5. Approximate mileage on the interstate?
>
>I don't believe the current owner has much if any of the original
>paperwork or documentation but I suppose that is available from various
>sources today.
>
>We're looking forward to hearing from any owners who are willing to
>offer their advice. It will certainly be appreciated. Thank you very
>much!
>
>