Just sitting here wondering. Has anyone ever swapped out the DD 8.2 turbo-charged V8 for anything else?
This would be in a '89 GV on an Oshkosh chassis. Again, just thinking about this as there are "times" the DD seems a tad underpowered. If so, what would be a decent upgrade?
Norm, what transmission does it have? Is the radiator in the rear or on the side?
B5.9 with a tweak.
That was my guess. That's why I asked about the radiator and transmission.
He should have the same transmission that the U225 has, the Allison MT 643. The specs for the model call for the DD 8.2 or the Caterpillar. Did not offer the Cummins 5.9, so I don't really know if there would be room for it. Best to ask someone at Foretravel what they might think.
That coach has a rear radiator, so don't know if there would be enough space for an in line 6
Nitehawk, you'd better have plenty of money! If you're interested, send me a PM and I'll send you a link to a thread on the Wanderlodge forum about a guy who changed engines on his 'Bird. He did all the work himself, and as I recall the bill was well over $10,000, and that was several years ago.
The 93, U225 had the 5.9, rear radiator but that Oshkosh is a totally different animal. My guess is cooling would be the most concern. That little sucker is high rpm and runs pretty hot.
I think $10,000 would be a good guess but you never know.
The Ford/International 7.3 turbo would seem like a good fit size wise since they are both V8s. Cheap to do if you are a DIYer. 5.9 Cummins would work well if length is not a problem and a lot of used engines are available. Both would turn more rpm than the 8.2 so cruising speed would be lower rpm than stock. A 6V-92TA would require a rear end change as it turns 2100 rpm vs. 3000 rpm for the 8.2.
Pierce
I understand the side radiator was a conversion, FOT did them, if so. that would be the first step to gaining space and improving cooling. As for suitable engine, agree with Peirce on the 7.3 Navistar/Ford engine, however there are other choices also, but one big concern is the rpm range, torque and rear gearing. For example installing a 6V-92 in place of the 8.2L, everything needs changed, transmission, rear and for sure radiator. For me as long as the coach has air bags, this might be a good project, however if it is the rubber torsional suspension, I would find a better project, this suspension will be an anchor around your neck.
FWIW
Dave M
Again, just "pondering" Our GV has rear radiator, leaf springs, four speed allison, and grill on driver's side that provides access to water & electric hookups, oil dipstick, and because of this the floor along the DW's side of the bed is raised up even with the mattress platform.
Our DD 8.2 has a whole great big 74,000 miles on it and doesn't leak, make funny noises, or burn oil. So, I was just kinda curious about a swap and really wanted to know if anyone had done a swap in a coach from this era.
Kent, if you recall, when we met at FOT there was a 1984 GV that John had swapped out the old engine for the biggest one that was ever put in an American Eagle. (John's words, not mine) John said his coach would climb mountain roads like a scalded cat.
While I am not a fan of the DD 8.2 liter 4stroke V8, were it my coach at that age and stage, I think I would stick with it unless major work was required.
Who knows, you may be able to nurse it along for a couple of more years before any big buck decisions come up.
Brett
Gosh darn it Brett!! You are the one who has me thinking the DD 8.2 is only good as a boat anchor, and now you go and say something almost nice about the DD!!
You are gonna make me cry!!
(I hope you realize I am just kidding)
I second Wolfe10 on keeping what you got as would cost a lot of time and money and not gain much
Cost/Benefit-- keep it as long as it doesn't need major work.
Next question?
Nitehawk's coach is in beautiful condition and worth considering an upgrade but I have to agree with the majority. Since it is an Oshkosh, it is not worth the cost of an engine conversion. I'm not sure what a Banks upgrade would do to get you more power but I think that might be the most practical investment. You may get the power you need and a cooler running power train for less than an engine conversion would cost. Call:
Richard Norman
Power Consultant
Gale Banks Engineering
546 Duggan Ave. Azusa, CA 91702
Toll Free: (888)-635-4565 Ext: 4110
Fax: (626)-334-1743
From my understanding the 8.2 is a fragile engine, I would not try to hot rod it with a stinger from Banks, that would bring a much earlier demise for the 8.2 L.
Since it is in good shape, no leaks, runs great, I would leave it alone and ENJOY it.
FWIW
Dave M
Agree with Dave.
Leave it OE!
Again, thanks everyone. Just pondering.
put a resonator on it, have someone run the overhead on it that has the special timing tool (and knows what they are doing) and run her till she blows (which it probably won't)