New list member, questions

[laura reeves]

Hello folks!

I'm a new owner of a 1974 GMC motorhome and have a couple questions re:
maintenance, repairs, etc. Please be patient. I am completely clueless
about this vehicle and mechanics in general, although my husband does
pretty well.

First, the RV is missing one trailing arm and another is broken. Does
anybody know anything about where to purchase these items or how to replace
them? We have a broken rear shock and need to replace these ASAP before the
shock can be replaced.

Second, the airbag on one side appears to be leaking. That side loses its
pressure and the vehicle sits on an incline as a result. It seems to
inflate sufficiently for driving and maintains its compression during
travel, but loses it when parked. I worry that it does not raise enough on
that side and may be wearing the tires when driving. I haven't noticed
anything like this yet, but I'm a bit paranoid! Any suggestions about how
to test and/or troubleshoot this problem?

Third, the Onan generator is leaking oil like a sieve, just started
recently. The dipstick is broken and I assume it needs a major overhaul. Is
it best to take it to someone who works on these generators solely, or
someone who can incorporate its maintenance with that of the vehicle?

For now, I think, that's all, but I'm sure to have more questions along the
way.

BTW, I really like this RV. This is the very first motorhome of ANY kind
I've ever owned, driven or really even been around. YIKES! This particular
vehicle is in remarkably good condition for its age and has been well
maintained, generally. I am a professional dog handler and this is the
perfect vehicle for my needs of carrying many dogs and sundry equipment,
while still having the comforts of home. And, though I still get a bit
nervous, I've reasonably mastered the art of driving it!! (Particularly
hairy for me going across the TALL suspension bridge called the Tacoma
Narrows bridge!)

Oh, yes, are there any mechanics familiar with this particular vehicle in
the Seattle/Tacoma area?

Thanks so much in advance for any help you can provide.

Laura

Laura Reeves, Gig Harbor, Wash.

* Clyde Communications -- writer & publicist
* The Scotia Kennel -- professional dog trainer and show dog handler
*clyde

 

[john szalay]

>Second, the airbag on one side appears to be leaking. That side loses its
>pressure and the vehicle sits on an incline as a result. It seems to
>inflate sufficiently for driving and maintains its compression during
>travel, but loses it when parked. Any suggestions about how
>to test and/or troubleshoot this problem?
>
Put a liguid leak detector on the outside of all fittings.
The best leak liquid I have found, is called SNOOP its available from
Air Conditioning supply houses, its stays around longer than soap & water
and shows smaller leaks than soap. Use the liquid on ALL fittings on ALL
coach lines. the liquid will bubble with the slightest air leak. Go
over the fittings several times. One fitting you should not overlook is
the T-fitting on the main frame, beneath the drivers side near the brake
diff. valve, it tends to leak more often because of engine heat.
Since yours is a 74, it should have the manual rotary level switches
under the dash, these can be rebuilt, clean them and replace the internal
O-rings,there are kits available. Then ADD a 5 micron airline filter to the
OUT-line of the air tank, this will keep any dirt particles from the
inside of the tank from damaging any seals and valves. When we purchased
our 73, it leaked down overnight, since reworking, it stays up for months.
Most fittings that leak only need a slight tighting, don,t crank down on
them, it is possible to collapse the tubing by over-tightening.
When you park your rig, put the rotary valves in the OFF position, do not
leave them in TRAVEL position, when parked.


>Third, the Onan generator is leaking oil like a sieve, just started
>recently. The dipstick is broken and I assume it needs a major overhaul. Is
>it best to take it to someone who works on these generators solely, or
>someone who can incorporate its maintenance with that of the vehicle?
>

We've found it best to take it to the Onan shop, they are not cheap
but they have the parts and training to best service them. We are lucky
the local Onan repair facility is very fair, and only does what needs to
done, the've been upfront on everything, if more work was needed, they
always called and explained the problem & got approval before doing any
extra work. Check for an Onan/Cummins diesel service shop in your area.
After repairs, they run the set on a proper test cell, before calling it
finished. Worth the money in my book.

John & Brenda Szalay
Louisville Ky