Foretravel Motorhome Forums => Foretravel Tech Talk => Topic started by: Zack & Ginny on September 27, 2023, 03:57:28 pm
Title: A few pre purchase issues.....need some input. U270
Post by: Zack & Ginny on September 27, 2023, 03:57:28 pm
Hello everyone, thanks for the add.
I am seeking some info about a few issues with a coach that I am looking to buy. The coach is a 1998 U270 3600wtfe. This coach belonged to my uncle who was extremely meticulous in the care and maintenance. Sadly, He passed in 2019 and now my aunt has it and has agreed to sell it to me. The coach has been sitting for approx. 10 years now on concrete inside an enclosed shop. My cousin has driven it a few times during the last 2-3 years to keep things lubricated. The tires have approx. 700 miles on them but due to their age, they are probably questionable for use. The batteries are down, and there is an air ride issue which is what has prompted this post. The coach is located 300 miles from my home, so it is not readily available to me currently. I have not purchased the coach yet because I am trying to get some ballpark idea for what I am facing cost-wise and what all repairs/replacements I will be faced with just to get it to my home as outlined below.
1st question: The air ride will raise it up, but it will not stay even while running. Eventually it bleeds back down and must wait for it to air up again. I talked to a local (to me) ForeTravel repairman about this, he said without looking at it, he suspects this could be a "six-pack" O-ring issue. I have been an auto mechanic my entire life, but I know nothing about this. So, I am asking for any of you to please share your thoughts, ideas, advice on how best to diagnose this air ride issue based on the limited info I have provided. Ultimately, I will have to hire a coach mechanic in the area where it is located to look at this so it will be a long-distance thing for me. Obviously, I cannot drive it back the 300 miles to my home in this condition, so it is imperative that I get this diagnosed and repaired. Any speculation as to the cost of repair for something like this provided it is something like an air valve(s) or O-ring issue? Yes, the entire coach drops equally, not just one side, corner, front or rear.
2nd question: Being that tires are so expensive and buying all 6 at one time would be a hard hit financially at the onset of this purchase, would it be reasonable for me to consider only replacing the 2 fronts just to get it home the 300-mile trip? Yes, the tires are aged, and I am sure most of the integrity of them is gone but they are not visibly dry rotted or cracked. So, my thoughts only due to the cost involved, put on 2 new fronts, and try it with the rears as is. Once I get it home, I can then take my time, tire shop, and replace the rears once I am more comfortable financially. Once I overcome the initial purchase cost, I will be in a much better place financially. Thoughts???
3rd question: It needs 2 batteries. What would be a good replacement battery but reasonably priced?
Additionally, the generator will start and run but dies shortly after. Tank full of fuel, still dies. Prior to sitting up, it ran perfectly. Any ideas what the issue might be here? Something as simple as a clogged fuel line? Clogged fuel filter?
Other than these 4 items, the coach needs nothing else currently, except maybe a bath. Again, my uncle was extremely meticulous about the maintenance and repair of this and all his previous coaches. Of course, now many years later and being honest and realistic with myself, once I start using it after it has sat for so long, I'm sure there will more than likely be some (hopefully) small issues from time to time that will need to be addressed but that is just part of owning one of these and I accept that. I am not new to RV's or camping. I am, however, new to D/P's and this will be my first experience with that side of the RV world. I have read many pros and cons online about D/P's and have concluded it all comes down to; is the reward worth the cost, for me and my wife, it is. So, any help with these 3 issues would be much appreciated.
Thanks
Title: Re: A few pre purchase issues.....need some input. U270
Post by: juicesqueezer on September 27, 2023, 04:47:57 pm
First off, where is the coach located? If there is a knowledgeable Foretravel owner close by, they could come over and look over the coach and pretty much tell you what it needs, etc. Just a thought on that. If close to Nac in TX, I would have Keith Reich look at it, since he is a qualified inspector and a all around great guy to help you out at fair prices. He also flies out for inspections, just not sure what his fee is on that, but worth a call. Once we find out the coach location, we could advise from there! You won't go wrong with a Foretravel for sure. You also did not mention what she is selling this coach for? Best of luck in your new to you adventure!
Title: Re: A few pre purchase issues.....need some input. U270
Post by: Elliott on September 27, 2023, 04:53:58 pm
If the thought of putting six new tires on is too rich for your blood I would not recommend buying a unicoach that has been sitting for a decade. This always comes off as snarky and I don't mean it to, it's just the truth. They can be really really expensive if you don't know what you're getting.
I would budget $3000 for the air system in a worst-case scenario. It will likely be far less than that, but that gives you some slush in case you have to replace one of the two 6 packs on it. Typically, you can just rebuild them for a couple hundred bucks though.
Title: Re: A few pre purchase issues.....need some input. U270
Post by: Zack & Ginny on September 27, 2023, 05:07:19 pm
First off, where is the coach located? If there is a knowledgeable Foretravel owner close by, they could come over and look over the coach and pretty much tell you what it needs, etc. Just a thought on that. If close to Nac in TX, I would have Keith Reich look at it, since he is a qualified inspector and a all around great guy to help you out at fair prices. He also flies out for inspections, just not sure what his fee is on that, but worth a call. Once we find out the coach location, we could advise from there! You won't go wrong with a Foretravel for sure. You also did not mention what she is selling this coach for? Best of luck in your new to you adventure!
I am in Longview Texas, the coach is in Miss. I have already talked to Foretravel direct and there are no service people in Miss. I also spoke to Keith Reich and his suggestion is the 6-pack manifold but getting it to him is my problem. Paying for him to fly to Miss to do the repairs is something I am trying to avoiding right now. If I can just get it back to east Texas, I will easily get it to Keith at that point. No need to disclose the selling price. Let's just say it is a family deal and I am getting it at a VERY reasonable price. Thanks
Title: Re: A few pre purchase issues.....need some input. U270
Post by: Zack & Ginny on September 27, 2023, 05:11:37 pm
If the thought of putting six new tires on is too rich for your blood I would not recommend buying a unicoach that has been sitting for a decade. This always comes off as snarky and I don't mean it to you, it's just the truth. They can be really really expensive if you don't know what you're getting.
I would budget $3000 for the air system in a worst-case scenario. It will likely be far less than that, but that gives you some slush in case you have to replace one of the two 6 packs on it. Typically, you can just rebuild them for a couple hundred bucks though.
The thought of 6 new tires is not too rich for my blood. The thought of 6 new tires right now is somewhat of an issue considering the purchase price, unknown expense of the air ride repairs, full engine/fuel system service, batteries and any other unknown issue that could arise at any time prior to and during the trip back to my home.
My original question is, if I can get safely get it home with replacing just the steer tires at this time. Again, once I get it home, I will be able to replace the rear tires at my pace and budget.
Title: Re: A few pre purchase issues.....need some input. U270
Post by: Elliott on September 27, 2023, 05:26:52 pm
My original question is, if I can get safely get it home with replacing just the steer tires at this time. Again, once I get it home, I will be able to replace the rear tires at my pace and budget.
I don't think anyone here is going to be willing to say "yea go for it" given the safety implications. It's really up to your own tolerance for risk. I know people that have done what I would consider "far crazier" and I know plenty of folks that would say no chance in hell. I personally would not do it just because of the damage a blown tire can cause that can rack up more expenses and headache than the tires themselves, which you know you already have to replace eventually.
For perspective, I sunk about $15k into my U320 that had been sitting for a while, and it came with good tires.
Title: Re: A few pre purchase issues.....need some input. U270
Post by: wolfe10 on September 27, 2023, 05:28:03 pm
My original question is, if I can get safely get it home with replacing just the steer tires at this time. Again, once I get it home, I will be able to replace the rear tires at my pace and budget.
Suspect you are aware that none of us have a Ouija board that can tell you whether the current rear tires "will make it" or blow out and destroy other suspension components.
BTW, HOW OLD (FROM DOT NUMBER) are the tires you are considering driving on? How long sitting? Their "history" (have they been run under-inflated)?
Title: Re: A few pre purchase issues.....need some input. U270
Post by: kgrover on September 27, 2023, 05:28:52 pm
The risk with the tires is if something goes wrong a tire, do you have a plan to deal with it on the road? If one just goes flat, you might be able to make it to a shop to get it fixed. If it blows you might crash.
Also, if it's been sitting for 10 years be prepared for everything to leak. Any place there is a rubber seal, it's probably dried and cracked. Also check for bird and bug nests in everything. Plugged exhaust vents can cause lots of problems.
Title: Re: A few pre purchase issues.....need some input. U270
Post by: craneman on September 27, 2023, 05:29:30 pm
I don't know why guessing a 6 pack issue when air bags having sit could have leaks. You need to actually have someone listen for leaks before going after the six packs. My coach is only a year newer and the six packs are not having issues.
Title: Re: A few pre purchase issues.....need some input. U270
Post by: Michelle on September 27, 2023, 05:33:12 pm
I am seeking some info about a few issues with a coach that I am looking to buy. The coach is a 1998 U270 3600wtfe. This coach belonged to my uncle who was extremely meticulous in the care and maintenance. Sadly, He passed in 2019 and now my aunt has it and has agreed to sell it to me. The coach has been sitting for approx. 10 years now on concrete inside an enclosed shop.
You mentioned it was primarily sitting. Do you know when the air dryer was last serviced? The desiccant filter in it can go bad, and desiccant powder getting into the leveling system can present itself as a leak. Moisture in the air system as well can cause issues.
Quote
1st question: The air ride will raise it up, but it will not stay even while running. Eventually it bleeds back down and must wait for it to air up again. I talked to a local (to me) ForeTravel repairman about this, he said without looking at it, he suspects this could be a "six-pack" O-ring issue. I have been an auto mechanic my entire life, but I know nothing about this. So, I am asking for any of you to please share your thoughts, ideas, advice on how best to diagnose this air ride issue based on the limited info I have provided. Ultimately, I will have to hire a coach mechanic in the area where it is located to look at this so it will be a long-distance thing for me. Obviously, I cannot drive it back the 300 miles to my home in this condition, so it is imperative that I get this diagnosed and repaired. Any speculation as to the cost of repair for something like this provided it is something like an air valve(s) or O-ring issue? Yes, the entire coach drops equally, not just one side, corner, front or rear.
Not including labor, rebuilding a six-pack completely is about $100-120 per axle. The o-rings themselves (if you don't want to do a full-up rebuild with new plungers) are well under $1 apiece and there are 12 per six pack. They are readily available at many hardware stores. You could potentially do it yourself.
Working On My Six Pack (https://www.foreforums.com/index.php?topic=27491.0)
Brand New Replica HWH Plungers (https://www.foreforums.com/index.php?topic=27598.0)
Our leveling system problem (https://www.foreforums.com/index.php?topic=12423.msg67934#msg67934)
Can you add some details about the air-up and leak-down behavior? How long it takes to air up, how quickly it loses air, and if the air loss is coincident with some other action (stepping on the brake pedal/treadle valve)? Equal leak-down on all 4 corners after airing up fully is highly unusual. The only think I can think would cause that is the HWH control issuing a "dump all" signal to both six pack solenoids, but it would be a pretty rapid air release. Normally a six-pack-related leak would show up as one corner leaking down so this really doesn't sound like the o-rings are a likely cause of what you're seeing.
BTW, you've got a very experienced FT owner in Longview who I hope will chime in.
Title: Re: A few pre purchase issues.....need some input. U270
Post by: Zack & Ginny on September 27, 2023, 05:33:50 pm
Suspect you are aware that none of us have a Ouija board that can tell you whether the current rear tires "will make it" or blow out and destroy other suspension components.
BTW, HOW OLD (FROM DOT NUMBER) are the tires you are considering driving on? How long sitting? Their "history" (have they been run under-inflated)?
I would have to get that info. I do not have it readily available. I will try to get that info and post it up.
Title: Re: A few pre purchase issues.....need some input. U270
Post by: Zack & Ginny on September 27, 2023, 05:35:23 pm
I don't know why guessing a 6 pack issue when air bags having sit could have leaks. You need to actually have someone listen for leaks before going after the six packs. My coach is only a year newer and the six packs are not having issues.
I'm just going by what Keith said he would suspect to start with in tracking down the issue.
Title: Re: A few pre purchase issues.....need some input. U270
Post by: Zack & Ginny on September 27, 2023, 05:38:10 pm
You mentioned it was primarily sitting. Do you know when the air dryer was last serviced? The desiccant filter in it can go bad, and desiccant powder getting into the leveling system can present itself as a leak. Moisture in the air system as well can cause issues.
Not including labor, rebuilding a six-pack completely is about $100-120 per axle. The o-rings themselves (if you don't want to do a full-up rebuild with new plungers) are well under $1 apiece and there are 12 per six pack. They are readily available at many hardware stores. You could potentially do it yourself.
Working On My Six Pack (https://www.foreforums.com/index.php?topic=27491.0)
Brand New Replica HWH Plungers (https://www.foreforums.com/index.php?topic=27598.0)
Our leveling system problem (https://www.foreforums.com/index.php?topic=12423.msg67934#msg67934)
Can you add some details about the air-up and leak-down behavior? How long it takes to air up, how quickly it loses air, and if the air loss is coincident with some other action (stepping on the brake pedal/treadle valve)? Equal leak-down on all 4 corners is highly unusual. The only think I can think would cause that is the HWH control issuing a "dump all" signal to both six pack solenoids, but it would be a pretty rapid air release.
BTW, you've got a very experienced FT owner in Longview who I hope will chime in.
I will talk to my cousin tonight and see if I can get some more detailed info on the characteristics of what it is actually doing.
I would like to speak to this person you referenced who live here in Longview. Could you ask him to contact me maybe?
Title: Re: A few pre purchase issues.....need some input. U270
Post by: Michelle on September 27, 2023, 05:47:13 pm
Title: Re: A few pre purchase issues.....need some input. U270
Post by: Pamela & Mike on September 27, 2023, 07:37:23 pm
Check you P/Ms. for my number and use it if you like. My toes curl up at 21:00
Mike
Title: Re: A few pre purchase issues.....need some input. U270
Post by: Barry & Cindy on September 27, 2023, 08:08:04 pm
[Unnecessary comment removed - Michelle]. If you have a place near your home to securely store it for a low cost and if you plan to use it, sounds like something you will not regret.
Tire dealers often have used tires with lots of tread that have a workable DOT year-week code that can help your get started.
[Unnecessary commend removed - Michelle]
With a low cost, you are minimizing your risk as you can probably sell it later for more than you have paid, if you find you should have made the purchase,
I would do it if you are handy and a good learner.
Title: Re: A few pre purchase issues.....need some input. U270
Post by: Pamela & Mike on September 27, 2023, 09:53:31 pm
Just had a great conversation with Zack about this coach, his ability, camping experience, and his expectations. All I am going to say is we are working on a plan. If he wants to expand on this plan as it materializes that is up to him. Come to find out he lives basically 3 blocks from us so back yard gathering won't be hard.
Mike
Title: Re: A few pre purchase issues.....need some input. U270
Post by: Dakota Slim on September 27, 2023, 10:01:49 pm
The last thing you want is to be stuck 1/2 way between where you buy it and where you plan to work on it. Towing is very expensive so I would definitely get a policy with a company such as Coachnet before you hit the road. Having said that, the tires and batteries are expensive but the other issues really need to be identified so you know what you are buying. I presume you checked the AC units, refrigerator and other appliances. Being stored indoors can be a big plus if if wasn't invaded by critters.
Title: Re: A few pre purchase issues.....need some input. U270
Post by: Lon and Cheryl on September 27, 2023, 11:49:25 pm
Many mystery problems can be from electrical problems. Bad grounds and bad batteries, air dryer, governor, low fluids. Check for leaks on the ground, cracked hoses. You can start by replacing the batteries. I recently replaced my engine batteries with Interstate wet cells from Costco, $99 each, with core exchange. Buy a inexpensive deep discharge battery (Costco) for the coach power, you will need more later but for now you are just trying to ID problems, removing hidden problems will make a diagnosis easier. Check all the fluid levels. Start the coach and let it run for a while. Take an oil sample of the trans and engine, send them into a testing lab to see the condition of the engine and trans. Change the oil and oil filter, air filter, fuel filters (2). Worry about the generator later. Your coach should air up to at least 120#, I have mine set to 130#. turn it off and see how long the air takes to drop, check the gauge for front and rear pressure. While its aired up look through the wheel wells and check your air bags for cracks, listen for leaks, take the air brake off (chock tires first) press hard on the brake pedal about 10 times, note the sounds and feel of the brake pedal and the air escaping, drain the main air tank and note the color of the air coming out, it should be clean.
If your tires sidewalls are cracked, I would not drive on them. If not, I would replace the front tires. What brand tires does it now have? If you decide to drive on the old tires (with new fronts) I would save an old tire and keep it for a spare on your way home. Have someone follow you home, they may see a problem you are not aware of.
If the coach was well taken care of before storage I would bet that you don't have any big problems now. The hard part is not knowing what to look for. Electrical contact cleaner could be all you need right now, a knowledgeable Foretravel person would help immensely.
NEVER go under the coach without the proper safe guards, a horrible way to die would be the coach coming down on you, you can read what those are on this forum.
Don't move it until you have towing insurance, I like CoachNet.
Best of luck.
Title: Re: A few pre purchase issues.....need some input. U270
Post by: Zack & Ginny on September 28, 2023, 10:43:44 am
Just had a great conversation with Zack about this coach, his ability, camping experience, and his expectations. All I am going to say is we are working on a plan. If he wants to expand on this plan as it materializes that is up to him. Come to find out he lives basically 3 blocks from us so back yard gathering won't be hard.
Mike
Thanks Mike. I have a tremendous amount of confidence in talking to you last night. After our conversation, I contacted my cousin and advised him that I would be indeed buying the coach. You being a rock's throw from me, it will be much easier for me to deal with any issues that come up as well and learning what I need to know about this coach.
Here are a few more details i got from my cousin last night after we talked. Fuel tank level? gauge reads zero, little to no Diesel in tank. He only adds a couple gallons or so only when he starts it Type of fuel filter? clear bowl? spin on filter? he can't get access to rear engine cover right now. he is actually moving and has some stuff stored at the rear of the coach. He is also going to get me some photos of the tires that are on it now. How long before air ride drops? so, 2 years ago, he got it aired up as it was sitting on the tires. While in park mode, the coach came up above normal height. When he put it in drive mode, the coach returned to it's normal ride height. He took off down the road and approx. 1/2 mile later, a dash error light came on. The rear began slowly dropping and would not stay up. He pushed a "button" to recharge it and it did but the same thing happened again. The front air ride is working is fine. As of today, the coach is sitting on the bags at ride height. Apparently, drive mode is what is leaking down (rear). He said it seemed the more he ran it and drove it, it seems to get better but ultimately, there is still an issue.
He also said they added a 3rd car battery at some point but it still works fine with just 2.
Another issue that has been wrong since almost new is that one of the dash air pressure gauges is jumping all over the place but it is only the gauge. Previously my uncle had this checked and the tech confirmed it was a gauge malfunction.
I will go over all this again and we can discuss more in detail Saturday when i come over. Thanks again
Title: Re: A few pre purchase issues.....need some input. U270
Post by: Elliott on September 28, 2023, 11:22:56 am
I hope it goes well and turns into a smoking deal for you. I suggest bringing a new D2 governor and just installing it before taking off. Cheap and easy to do on the spot and may resolve some of the air issues. If it doesn't, it'll at the very least take one very important unknown out of the equation as you troubleshoot the rest of the system.
Title: Re: A few pre purchase issues.....need some input. U270
Post by: Zack & Ginny on September 28, 2023, 11:51:40 am
I hope it goes well and turns into a smoking deal for you. I suggest bringing a new D2 governor and just installing it before taking off. Cheap and easy to do on the spot and may resolve some of the air issues. If it doesn't, it'll at the very least take one very important unknown out of the equation as you troubleshoot the rest of the system.
Good suggestion. I will probably do that. I am going to be relying on Mike to guide me down this path of unknowns.
Title: Re: A few pre purchase issues.....need some input. U270
Post by: Pamela & Mike on September 28, 2023, 05:15:39 pm
Fuel tank level? gauge reads zero, little to no Diesel in tank. He only adds a couple gallons or so only when he starts it
This is most likely the problem with the generator. With your kinfolks playing the low fuel guessing game the generator will fix it's self when the fuel is up to the fuel pick up. FYI the generator pick up is above the engine pick up so you won't run the coach out of fuel running the generator.
With the location of the coach and no fuel we will most likely have to address an algae issue but that isn't a big deal when you are prepared for it.
The air info is just what I need to have to give it some thought as to what will be needed to get it back here.
Mike
Title: Re: A few pre purchase issues.....need some input. U270
Post by: Scubajeeper on September 28, 2023, 07:56:46 pm
If it's been sitting for ten years, the tires are a least 10 years old, probably more. Personally, I'd drive it to a tire store and no further. I know what you're saying about the money thing but the fact is if you sling a tire apart, you're going to spend a lot more money than just a set of tires. And then there's your life you have to take into consideration.
Congratulations on the coach, I hope you get it sorted out.
Title: Re: A few pre purchase issues.....need some input. U270
Post by: dans96u295ft on October 02, 2023, 10:52:28 am
Motor Homes are expensive to operate. If tires are an issue, you probably can't afford the coach. They just are more expensive to maintain than say a gas class C. Price of fuel is not fun right now. Insurance has doubled in the past years. Really consider your budget before this purchase.
Title: Re: A few pre purchase issues.....need some input. U270
Post by: Zack & Ginny on October 02, 2023, 12:37:17 pm
Motor Homes are expensive to operate. If tires are an issue, you probably can't afford the coach. They just are more expensive to maintain than say a gas class C. Price of fuel is not fun right now. Insurance has doubled in the past years. Really consider your budget before this purchase.
Thanks Dan I appreciate your interest in replying to my post. However, I need to apologize for not clarifying my question better about tire issue better in my original post. It seems as though some of the replies have the misconception I may not be able to afford tires or even owning a coach like this for that matter. That is not the case nor what I was asking "Being that tires are so expensive and buying all 6 at one time would be a hard hit financially at the onset of this purchase, would it be reasonable for me to consider only replacing the 2 fronts just to get it home the 300-mile trip?."
I'm not real sure how that went from a simple question to the assumption that I may not be able to afford this coach. Regardless, yes, I will be buying tires for it. My intent was to simply get everyone's thoughts on making the trip home with the tires on it now. I was asking because, I had planned to get it home first, then I could take my time and find the best deal on a set of tires.
I would like to also add, having Mike & Pam Rash just down the street from me, I am more confident in this purchase than I ever was before. Mike is unbelievably intelligent with these coaches and has a ton of experience that he is sharing to help me get my feet on the ground with my coach. So, with Mike's guidance, I do not foresee any issues that cannot be overcome.
Title: Re: A few pre purchase issues.....need some input. U270
Post by: Jeff & Sandy on October 02, 2023, 12:53:33 pm
Personally I would not drive the coach on tires that have been sitting for 10 years. They may be older than that, check the date codes.
Everyone will have varying opinions on how often to replace coach tires but that is with normal use and maintenance. If I want my wife to join me in the coach we need to replace the tires every 5-6 years. Many go longer but this is what we are comfortable with.
It comes down to how much risk you are willing to take and that is a personal decision.
Best wishes with the acquisition and safe travels.
Title: Re: A few pre purchase issues.....need some input. U270
Post by: bbeane on October 02, 2023, 01:03:57 pm
Enjoy your purchase. If you do most of the work yourself you will gain valuable knowledge of your coach. Having Mine near by is great. I know tires are a big expense before you even get the coach home, but the safety issues, and the damage they can cause it's just not it worth do all six.
Title: Re: A few pre purchase issues.....need some input. U270
Post by: Zack & Ginny on October 02, 2023, 01:23:08 pm
Personally I would not drive the coach on tires that have been sitting for 10 years. They may be older than that, check the date codes.
Everyone will have varying opinions on how often to replace coach tires but that is with normal use and maintenance. If I want my wife to join me in the coach we need to replace the tires every 5-6 years. Many go longer but this is what we are comfortable with.
It comes down to how much risk you are willing to take and that is a personal decision.
Best wishes with the acquisition and safe travels.
Thanks Jeff
Title: Re: A few pre purchase issues.....need some input. U270
Post by: Zack & Ginny on October 02, 2023, 01:27:00 pm
Enjoy your purchase. If you do most of the work yourself you will gain valuable knowledge of your coach. Having Mine near by is great. I know tires are a big expense before you even get the coach home, but the safety issues, and the damage they can cause it's just not it worth do all six.
Thanks Bruce. Yes, I will be doing everything I can to the coach not only to save money but to broaden my knowledge in case of a breakdown, I will be able to hopefully get it going again myself outside of something catastrophic. I have been an auto mechanic my whole life and with Mike's help, I am 100% sure in time I will learn everything I need to know about working on my coach. I am actually looking forward to learning the mechanics of the U270 since I enjoy tinkering with and fixing mechanical things.
Title: Re: A few pre purchase issues.....need some input. U270
Post by: juicesqueezer on October 02, 2023, 02:30:15 pm
Zack, you couldn't ask for a better neighbor and knowledgeable person on Foretravels than Mike. I have called him on numerous occasions and he always was spot on in his diagnosis of a problem! You will be in the best of hands!
Title: Re: A few pre purchase issues.....need some input. U270
Post by: Zack & Ginny on October 02, 2023, 02:43:35 pm
Zack, you couldn't ask for a better neighbor and knowledgeable person on Foretravels than Mike. I have called him on numerous occasions and he always was spot on in his diagnosis of a problem! You will be in the best of hands!
I'm telling ya! I really doubt there is anything that he doesn't know about these coaches. I am super blessed to have him nearby for sure! Thanks Joe!
Title: Re: A few pre purchase issues.....need some input. U270
Post by: Rudy on October 02, 2023, 03:51:17 pm
With regards to tires, Dave Ward, the Michelin tire re-seller I and others purchase tires through, will provide Michelin brand tires at less cost than FMCA, sign you up for free to Michelin OnCall, and arrange for a dealer to come to the coach's location to install them.
Dave Ward. (321) 607-2265
Title: Re: A few pre purchase issues.....need some input. U270
Post by: Jeff & Sandy on October 02, 2023, 03:55:12 pm
Even better, you don't have to drive on those old tires.
Title: Re: A few pre purchase issues.....need some input. U270
Post by: Zack & Ginny on October 02, 2023, 04:23:15 pm
With regards to tires, Dave Ward, the Michelin tire re-seller I and others purchase tires through, will provide Michelin brand tires at less cost than FMCA, sign you up for free to Michelin OnCall, and arrange for a dealer to come to the coach's location to install them.
Dave Ward. (321) 607-2265
Thanks Rudy, I will give him a call.
Title: Re: A few pre purchase issues.....need some input. U270
Post by: oldguy on October 02, 2023, 04:59:08 pm
Zack with you being a auto mechanic and Mike as a neighbor you should be fine. I have been reading Mikes posts for a few years so I can tell he is very knowledgeable. Have fun with the coach and good luck.
Title: Re: A few pre purchase issues.....need some input. U270
Post by: Zack & Ginny on October 02, 2023, 05:05:31 pm
Zack with you being a auto mechanic and Mike as a neighbor you should be fine. I have been reading Mikes posts for a few years so I can tell he is very knowledgeable. Have fun with the coach and good luck.
Hi Peter I think so as well. Having Mike nearby is the main reason I went ahead and agreed to purchase the coach. Without his assistance, I'm not sure sure I would have done it. I'm afraid the learning curve might have been more than I wanted to tackle doing it just myself. Of course this forum and having Keith 75 miles to the South would have been a couple good resources but not like having someone 3 blocks from me. I think it will all work out really good this way.
Title: Re: A few pre purchase issues.....need some input. U270
Post by: Jan & Richard on October 03, 2023, 03:21:20 am
Hi Peter I think so as well. Having Mike nearby is the main reason I went ahead and agreed to purchase the coach. Without his assistance, I'm not sure sure I would have done it. I'm afraid the learning curve might have been more than I wanted to tackle doing it just myself. Of course this forum and having Keith 75 miles to the South would have been a couple good resources but not like having someone 3 blocks from me. I think it will all work out really good this way.
Zack,
With your neighbor Mike as well as being near Nachgdoches and all of us on the Forum to back you up, you and Genny are in for a fantastic adventure. I look forward to meeting you somewhere down the road.
Richard
Title: Re: A few pre purchase issues.....need some input. U270
Post by: Zack & Ginny on October 03, 2023, 10:43:26 am
With your neighbor Mike as well as being near Nachgdoches and all of us on the Forum to back you up, you and Genny are in for a fantastic adventure. I look forward to meeting you somewhere down the road.
Richard
Hi Richard Thank you sir! Yes, Ginny and I are very excited to be moving up from travel trailers to a actual motorhome coach. I hope we meet along the road as well. I am really liking what I am seeing here in the Foretravel community so far. That is one of the things I like most about RV'ing, meeting new people and sharing stories along the way. I have met some of you online and of course Mike in person and with each passing day, I grow more and more comfortable about my decision to purchase this coach. Thanks again for the welcome.
Title: Re: A few pre purchase issues.....need some input. U270
Post by: Zack & Ginny on October 29, 2023, 12:37:43 pm
Thanks to Mike Rash, we got my 270 home some 300 miles without a glitch. The tires were spot on perfect. It had been sitting since 09 and fired up with no issues. As to be expected it has some small issues that Mike will be guiding me on and helping me get fixed.
Fuel lines need replacing Fuel sender not working accurately Tachometer is all over the place Front PSI gauge is dead Ride height valves and 6-packs not working 100% as they should Generator getting fuel and turning over but will not start Needs all fluids / filters changed Dash A/C compressor needs replaced
As I get it cleaned up, I will provide more pics.
Thanks again Mike! Your support, knowledge and kindness are the reason I was able to get this coach.
I am seeking some info about a few issues with a coach that I am looking to buy. The coach is a 1998 U270 3600wtfe. This coach belonged to my uncle who was extremely meticulous in the care and maintenance. Sadly, He passed in 2019 and now my aunt has it and has agreed to sell it to me. The coach has been sitting for approx. 10 years now on concrete inside an enclosed shop. My cousin has driven it a few times during the last 2-3 years to keep things lubricated. The tires have approx. 700 miles on them but due to their age, they are probably questionable for use. The batteries are down, and there is an air ride issue which is what has prompted this post. The coach is located 300 miles from my home, so it is not readily available to me currently. I have not purchased the coach yet because I am trying to get some ballpark idea for what I am facing cost-wise and what all repairs/replacements I will be faced with just to get it to my home as outlined below.
1st question: The air ride will raise it up, but it will not stay even while running. Eventually it bleeds back down and must wait for it to air up again. I talked to a local (to me) ForeTravel repairman about this, he said without looking at it, he suspects this could be a "six-pack" O-ring issue. I have been an auto mechanic my entire life, but I know nothing about this. So, I am asking for any of you to please share your thoughts, ideas, advice on how best to diagnose this air ride issue based on the limited info I have provided. Ultimately, I will have to hire a coach mechanic in the area where it is located to look at this so it will be a long-distance thing for me. Obviously, I cannot drive it back the 300 miles to my home in this condition, so it is imperative that I get this diagnosed and repaired. Any speculation as to the cost of repair for something like this provided it is something like an air valve(s) or O-ring issue? Yes, the entire coach drops equally, not just one side, corner, front or rear.
2nd question: Being that tires are so expensive and buying all 6 at one time would be a hard hit financially at the onset of this purchase, would it be reasonable for me to consider only replacing the 2 fronts just to get it home the 300-mile trip? Yes, the tires are aged, and I am sure most of the integrity of them is gone but they are not visibly dry rotted or cracked. So, my thoughts only due to the cost involved, put on 2 new fronts, and try it with the rears as is. Once I get it home, I can then take my time, tire shop, and replace the rears once I am more comfortable financially. Once I overcome the initial purchase cost, I will be in a much better place financially. Thoughts???
3rd question: It needs 2 batteries. What would be a good replacement battery but reasonably priced?
Additionally, the generator will start and run but dies shortly after. Tank full of fuel, still dies. Prior to sitting up, it ran perfectly. Any ideas what the issue might be here? Something as simple as a clogged fuel line? Clogged fuel filter?
Other than these 4 items, the coach needs nothing else currently, except maybe a bath. Again, my uncle was extremely meticulous about the maintenance and repair of this and all his previous coaches. Of course, now many years later and being honest and realistic with myself, once I start using it after it has sat for so long, I'm sure there will more than likely be some (hopefully) small issues from time to time that will need to be addressed but that is just part of owning one of these and I accept that. I am not new to RV's or camping. I am, however, new to D/P's and this will be my first experience with that side of the RV world. I have read many pros and cons online about D/P's and have concluded it all comes down to; is the reward worth the cost, for me and my wife, it is. So, any help with these 3 issues would be much appreciated.
Thanks
I'll throw in my experience. Bought an 08' spent about 20 coach bucks so far trying to get it to where it hopefully doesn't leave me stranded on the side of the road. ( It already did once). You are jumping into an expensive hobby. My point is. You might want to take a deep breath and look at a more entry level coach. These things are big and old and everything on them is expensive to fix. But if you want to press on with this adventure. It will cost money. And this forum is a great resource. Let the money hemorrhage begin and don't forget to get out and enjoy it. 😀
Title: Re: A few pre purchase issues.....need some input. U270
Post by: craneman on October 30, 2023, 10:04:24 am
Already purchased and at home.
Title: Re: A few pre purchase issues.....need some input. U270
Post by: Pamela & Mike on October 30, 2023, 12:57:51 pm
Yes it was a great trip coming home. I had never pulled our Trailblazer (loaded) behind a coach with an 8.3. This one far surpassed my expectations. The biggest thing is it needs a good cleaning. For a barn find this will make these folks a great coach. I wouldn't have went to Mississippi for a kangaroo, breaking wind or a color bay coach that was in the same place, age and setting time. Now that is here we can do a complete service and have it ready to start next camping season around Memorial Day weekend (if not before).
Mike
Title: Re: A few pre purchase issues.....need some input. U270
Post by: Kiwitex on October 31, 2023, 02:01:08 pm
Congratulations on getting it home safely, well done. The photos look good. May I suggest for the generator, that you start with filters before anything, mine took 2 changes before it worked like it should. They are cheap (relatively speaking) and easy to switch it out. Dash AC is often not worth fixing, in the majority of cases people use the generator to run the main units while traveling.
Title: Re: A few pre purchase issues.....need some input. U270
Post by: Zack & Ginny on October 31, 2023, 02:57:06 pm
Congratulations on getting it home safely, well done. The photos look good. May I suggest for the generator, that you start with filters before anything, mine took 2 changes before it worked like it should. They are cheap (relatively speaking) and easy to switch it out. Dash AC is often not worth fixing, in the majority of cases people use the generator to run the main units while traveling.
Thank you. It was actually quite a nice trip.
I will change all the filters and fluids on the Gen. I think the dash AC will be further down my priority list because of reasons you pointed out. I will just run the Gen. and house air while traveling. Probably be much cooler anyway.
Title: Re: A few pre purchase issues.....need some input. U270
Post by: bikerdavet on October 31, 2023, 03:55:05 pm
Zack & Ginny,
Just want to say that we watched this thread with much interest as we are in the early phase of our acquisition of a Foretravel. We are very excited for you and so happy this came together in such a positive way. Looking forward to following your progress as you get your coach shipshape for the coming camping season. Please keep posting - all the good and all the "wish we would of know that".
Enjoy the journey! Dave and Jennifer
Title: Re: A few pre purchase issues.....need some input. U270
Post by: MarkC on October 31, 2023, 04:07:02 pm
Zack & Ginny......Congrats ! A great looking Coach. As others have said, it will cost you a few bucks to get it ready the way you want. Don't be dissuaded, the money will be well spent. You will have a fantastic time with that Coach. It will be far better than any other brand. Once it's all set to your standards, you'll love it and the enjoyment you get from it.
This site will be great for you and having Mike's help is a Godsend. You can't beat his knowledge!
Congrats again and best of luck.
Title: Re: A few pre purchase issues.....need some input. U270
Post by: Zack & Ginny on October 31, 2023, 04:16:20 pm
Just want to say that we watched this thread with much interest as we are in the early phase of our acquisition of a Foretravel. We are very excited for you and so happy this came together in such a positive way. Looking forward to following your progress as you get your coach shipshape for the coming camping season. Please keep posting - all the good and all the "wish we would of know that".
Enjoy the journey! Dave and Jennifer
Hi Dave Thank you for the kind comments, we really appreciate it. Yes sir, we are super excited to start this journey. Coming from the RV bumper pull trailer world, this is quite a big change for us but it is a much welcomed changed as I am 6'3" tall and the trailers just aren't big enough for me. This coach actually has a shower I can bathe in, LOL. I will definitely post my learning experiences as I progress. I have what I have come to conclude as "the expert" in Mike helping me and guiding me down this path so that is the game changer for me. I hope to get started tinkering with some of the issues within the next week or so, I will try to post up everything I can. Thanks again.
Title: Re: A few pre purchase issues.....need some input. U270
Post by: Zack & Ginny on October 31, 2023, 04:20:14 pm
Zack & Ginny......Congrats ! A great looking Coach. As others have said, it will cost you a few bucks to get it ready the way you want. Don't be dissuaded, the money will be well spent. You will have a fantastic time with that Coach. It will be far better than any other brand. Once it's all set to your standards, you'll love it and the enjoyment you get from it.
This site will be great for you and having Mike's help is a Godsend. You can't beat his knowledge!
Congrats again and best of luck.
Thank you for the encouragement Mark. Yes indeed, Mike is my go to for everything related to Foretravel. I have my coach parked at his house now in preparation to begin sorting out some of the bugs. Mike having all the tools, knowledge and facility, I could not ask for anything more. Ginny and I are looking forward to spending time in this coach and hitting the open roads as time permits. Unfortunately, I still have a few more years before I retire so my RV time is limited but will still make the most of vacation time that I do have. Thanks again sir.