I'm looking at a 1987 Foretravel that is 29'. The owner is not sure of the chassis but it does have a 454 in it. My question is what kind of chassis did Foretravel use on a 29' coach in 1987?
Thanks
Jim
If 454, suspect it is a Chevrolet.
Look under the front. If independent front suspension (like large Chevy PU), that is your answer, as others have solid front axles.
But the real answer is to look at the VIN.
Chevy. Listen for exhaust leaks
Yes $2K fix minimum
Probably Chevy P30
Had 97 SOB with 454 chevy and P30 frame-- "My suggestion would be to not buy it" Problem with P30 is front wheels are in line with inside duels and you will have a lot of tail wag. I looked at putting spacers on front wheels to move them out even with outside duels. But all my research said definitely DO NOT ADD SPACERS TO FRONT WEELS, the bearings are not made to carry that much cantilever and will burn out quickly.
Exhaust leaks can be a problem but exhaust manifold cost 150-200 but other problem with exhaust manifold is they will warp and break the bolt off in the head
Just my experience with 454 and P30
Chris
Also had issues with oil return in the heads. Google it. They smoked a lot of motors.
CW
Maybe Foretravel did a better job using that chassis than the other manufacturers did but check the ride height. Are there air bags on top of the axle? If yes to the latter I suggest quietly walking away.
The Chevrolet P-30 chassis started out life as a Chevrolet 1-ton step van. The motorhome manufacturer then cut the frame and welded in extensions, rear springs and an axle. The drive train is up to the task if the manufacturer properly ducted the air around the engine with the warning that it is still a Chevrolet 454 or 7.4L engine. The main bearings are on the small side of adequate, the intake manifold causes a lean mixture in the rear cylinders leading to burnt exhaust valves. The four wheel disk brakes will do the job but I don't think the rear disks are available. Pads and calipers are readily available.
Foretravel did use real truck chassis before they began building their own. Maybe it's time to wait for another one to come along?
Art Joly
Same conclusion here. We did Banks exhaust and it picked up pretty well . But yeah the chassis handles like poo. Bilsteins are a huge help bit the front bags get changes often. The poor Chev motor works it's butt off.
I could have bought my Dads for about 4000$ and passed. This after working on it for 12yrs.
BA diesel in the back is worlds better.