Where to service a Foretravel in the Northeast?

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Where to service a Foretravel in the Northeast?

October 02, 2011, 11:19:10 am

Hi everyone,

Although I try to do things myself, a diesel pusher motorcoach is completely new to me, and before I hit the road for good I wanted to get the chassis inspected and serviced, along with all fluids and filters replaced. Hoping to hang with the mechanic for awhile so he can show me what I need to know in future. The problem for me is I have no idea where to take it around here (I'm in Delaware). There are a number of RV outlets not too far from here; most don't deal with Class A diesel pushers, and thus can't service them. Having had less than stellar experiences with unknowns in the past, hoping someone can recommend a competent shop in the area with mechanics who know what they're doing. If anyone has any good experiences with someone in the Northeast, would appreciate hearing from you. Thanks.

Steve

Re: Where to service a Foretravel in the Northeast?

Reply #1 – October 02, 2011, 11:43:43 am

I have had good luck dealing with Dean at Keystone in Pa, think some have not had as good luck as I, but what I have had done there, it all turned out just fine. But as usual, I feel good clear English ahead of time eliminates later problem issues, make it clear what you expect first, not after it is done.
Also I never leave the coach and come back days later, I stay close, out of the way but available if there is a question.
Otherwise MOT is my choice, they do not need much English, they know me and what I expect, guess it is a learning process for both sides. I trust Mike at MOT on his suggestions.
Good luck

Re: Where to service a Foretravel in the Northeast?

Reply #2 – October 02, 2011, 11:50:11 am

Cummins Coach Care does good work. They are not cheap, but very competent... Harrisburg PA and Cloverdale VA seem like the closest to you, with overnight parking/hookup. Drive down the day before, drive back...
RV Guide to the Internet
Coach Care RV Service and Repair Center - Cloverdale, Roanoke, Virginia

Re: Where to service a Foretravel in the Northeast?

Reply #3 – October 02, 2011, 12:19:38 pm

Quote from: Dave M – October 02, 2011, 11:43:43 am

I have had good luck dealing with Dean at Keystone in Pa,

In case you don't know of Keystone:
Keystone RV Center
Toll Free: 1 (800) 232-3279
(717) 597-0939
15799 Young Rd.
Greencastle, PA 17225

I believe that Keystone RV was a representative for Foretravel a number of years back. Whether that expertise is still there or not, I don't know.

But for chassis maintenance, where I live, I'd go to a good local truck shop before going to a RV shop. for fluid changes and chassis inspections. Most of the RV shops around where I live would be lost when it comes to the chassis maintenance on a motorhome. They are more interior coach qualified that chassis qualified.

Re: Where to service a Foretravel in the Northeast?

Reply #4 – October 02, 2011, 01:08:59 pm

Try looking at NTTS Truck Repair for locations in your area. We found mechanics and reviews all over ... everything from emergency service to general maintenance.

Re: Where to service a Foretravel in the Northeast?

Reply #5 – October 02, 2011, 07:37:18 pm

Both my neighbor and I have had good service at J G Parks in Mardela Springs, Md. They specialize in big diesels and are located on US 50 (aka Ocean Gateway) not far from the southwest corner of Delaware. Here is a link:
Engines

Re: Where to service a Foretravel in the Northeast?

Reply #6 – October 02, 2011, 10:22:59 pm

Hi Merle,

There is a good mechanic named Mike Zannino who works for McCarthy Tire in Dundalk, Md just outside of Baltimore off I-95, much closer than Keystone. Mike is an extremely good diesel mechanic plus has done quite abit of additional work on my coach from diagnosing and repairing my radiator leak, replacing the alternator, isolator, installing a new fantastic fan and replacing the fuel lines on the geny, plus has reasonable labor rates versus the $110 hour at cumins. He work on motorhomes for another shop before going to McCarthy's and loves the Foretravel, not ready to buy yet but after working on my coach he definitely said he will buy one when the time is right! The main number is 410-288-9000 and his cell phone 443-877-0543, mention that I told you and that you have a foretravel. You can call me at 410-877-4816 if you have any questions.

Tony Pasquale

Re: Where to service a Foretravel in the Northeast?

Reply #7 – October 02, 2011, 10:59:36 pm

FYI Tony. Starr and I will be in Annapolis around the 23rd and 24th.

Re: Where to service a Foretravel in the Northeast?

Reply #8 – October 03, 2011, 08:18:00 am

Wow - thanks for all the replies. Going to do some checking on the suggestions you've made, and make some phone calls.

Thought about a truck/bus service outlet - also thinking they'd be a better choice for chassis service. However, I do remember seeing a number of diesel mechanics post they hated working on motorhomes, because there's a lot more fuss in not making a mess and access to the powertrain is much more a pain. I guess it all depends on the people you're dealing with.

Thank you again.

Steve

Re: Where to service a Foretravel in the Northeast?

Reply #9 – October 03, 2011, 09:03:50 am

Steve, You might look for a SPEEDCO shop, usually near big truck stops. Some folks have had good luck with them for oil filter lube services.
Gary B

Re: Where to service a Foretravel in the Northeast?

Reply #10 – October 22, 2011, 01:15:02 pm

Dave,

Just noticed your post about being in Annapolis the 23rd & 24th and I would like to get together. I left a my numbers on you home telephone number, only one I have for you or if you see this message first please call me at 410-877-4816.

Love to get together!!!
Tony

Re: Where to service a Foretravel in the Northeast?

Reply #11 – October 22, 2011, 01:22:02 pm

Quote from: Merle Hench – October 03, 2011, 08:18:00 am

Wow - thanks for all the replies. Going to do some checking on the suggestions you've made, and make some phone calls.

Thought about a truck/bus service outlet - also thinking they'd be a better choice for chassis service. However, I do remember seeing a number of diesel mechanics post they hated working on motorhomes, because there's a lot more fuss in not making a mess and access to the powertrain is much more a pain. I guess it all depends on the people you're dealing with.

Thank you again.

Steve

Steve,

How did you make out with service on your coach? Did you find someone in our area able to take care of your needs?

Tony

Re: Where to service a Foretravel in the Northeast?

Reply #12 – October 23, 2011, 10:16:42 pm

Not as yet. Had to postpone for a few weeks. Will let you know how it turns out.

Steve

Re: Where to service a Foretravel in the Northeast?

Reply #13 – October 28, 2011, 07:21:28 am

Quote from: Merle Hench – October 23, 2011, 10:16:42 pm

Not as yet. Had to postpone for a few weeks. Will let you know how it turns out.

Steve

Steve,

I spoke to Mike at McCarthy Tire last night and I will be dropping off coach on Sunday night for him to work on replacing fuel lines next week. I also talked about replacing shocks with Bilsteins, Mike said stay away from them didn't like them, he recommended going with the Koni's but I am not sure limited budget can handle cost of 8 Koni's right now combined with labor cost of a fuel line fix.

I will call Mike back today to ask about possibly replacing muffler with resonator and approx cost which may fit better with the budget at this time than doing shock replacement which can wait till next year as not projecting any long trips till next year.

Tony

Re: Where to service a Foretravel in the Northeast?

Reply #14 – October 28, 2011, 08:00:27 am

Tony,

Since your Koni's are adjustable, you might have the mechanic check a few, starting at the front, to see if they can be stiffened to adjust for wear.

Re: Where to service a Foretravel in the Northeast?

Reply #15 – October 28, 2011, 09:51:55 am

Tony,

You can conserve funds by putting four Koni FSDs on the front and setting the rear Koni's to full stiff for a much improved ride.

Some years ago, Henderson's Lineup told me on the phone that gas pressure shocks would not work nearly as well as hydraulic shocks on the weight of our coaches.

Re: Where to service a Foretravel in the Northeast?

Reply #16 – October 28, 2011, 04:31:38 pm

Quote from: Rudy – October 28, 2011, 09:51:55 am

Tony,

You can conserve funds by putting four Koni FSDs on the front and setting the rear Koni's to full stiff for a much improved ride.

Quote from: amos.harrison – October 28, 2011, 08:00:27 am
Tony,

Since your Koni's are adjustable, you might have the mechanic check a few, starting at the front, to see if they can be stiffened to adjust for wear.

Rudy, Amos,

I do not have Koni's on the coach I am pretty sure they are Bilsteins, not sure if they can stiffened, but Mike had suggested going that route of 4 Koni's per axle then 4 at a later time. I guess that might be the best way to go.

Waiting for a return call from Mike this afternoon and will ask about a Resonator install which sounds, pun intended, as much more music to my ear!

Thank you both for your replies,
Tony

Re: Where to service a Foretravel in the Northeast?

Reply #17 – October 28, 2011, 08:35:20 pm

Tony, I do not know your abilities of course but to replace the muffler is actually very easy to do and add Resonator. I have done it and I have trouble bending down (back problems) but accomplished it by taking off the side rear panel (again an easy thing to do) I am sure that you could save a couple hundred $ by doing it yourself. I will walk you thru' it if you want to
John

Re: Where to service a Foretravel in the Northeast?

Reply #18 – October 30, 2011, 06:45:56 pm

Quote from: John Haygarth – October 28, 2011, 08:35:20 pm

Tony, I do not know your abilities of course but to replace the muffler is actually very easy to do and add Resonator. I have done it and I have trouble bending down (back problems) but accomplished it by taking off the side rear panel (again an easy thing to do) I am sure that you could save a couple hundred $ by doing it yourself. I will walk you thru' it if you want to
John

Hi John,

I would like to discuss what it would take replace, however, part of my problem is I am not sure I have the proper tools nor the available work area to attempt, I live in an apartment complex which limit my work area and I store in a community RV area that I believe might have restrictions.

I can call at your convenience or if you prefer my number is 410-877-4816.

Tony

Re: Where to service a Foretravel in the Northeast?

Reply #19 – December 15, 2011, 09:37:59 am

I had posted earlier I was needed to have the fuel lines and shocks replaced so as I was getting the coach ready for winter I noticed a fuel leak under the engine so I knew the time had come to take "Clyde" into the hospital for the fuel line "By Pass" plus shock replacement!
While there Mike at McCarthy Tire called to let me know the prognosis was much worse it seems I in addition to fuel lines and shocks the leak was from a fuel supply pump which in the end turned out needed replacement 4 rear airbags, 2 were absolutely worn and a thread away from total failure. I also had a coolant leak in three different areas and every fuel line needed replacement not only to and from fuel tank.
I went to pick up coach yesterday and the amount of work Mike had done was amazing he had the fuel supply pump replaced all the lines throughout every part of the coach engine and generator the 4 airbags, all shocks leaks around the radiator and dash valve in water compartment check the transmission plus replaced oil and all filters on engine and genny.
I paid the bill, quite a bit more than originally expected, but comforting to know all was better and I am confidant that the work was done properly would have no problem for many years in these areas!
Being as I needed to run for eye surgery Mike is delivering the coach to my house today so I need not worry about when I would be able to pick up!
I recommended that Mike join the forum to give any advise needed here and for his information as he said he loves working on these fine Foretravel coaches! I recommend anyone to call if you need anything done on your coach and that is only my experience and confidance in Mike and no monetary connection whatsoever.

Re: Where to service a Foretravel in the Northeast?

Reply #20 – December 15, 2011, 08:58:59 pm

Sounds like you had a lot done. WHere is McCarthy Tire and Mike located. It might be a good place to put in my contact book.

Re: Where to service a Foretravel in the Northeast?

Reply #21 – December 15, 2011, 11:32:41 pm

Hi John,

I hope you are feeling better!

It was quite a bit of work but definitely a critical must do. I really feel secure and comfortable that whatever Mike worked on was done properly. Whatever he does not know or has a question about he will not hesitate to immediately pick up the telephone and ask James Triana questions.

He works at McCarthy Tire located in Baltimore Maryland off Rolling Mill Road, a few mile off I-895 exit 12 outside of the Harbor tunnel, or take I-95 outside the McHenry Tunnel. I don't have it front of me right now but I posted his telephone number for Steve earlier in this thread.

It is worth the ride if you want the feeling to know something will be fixed correctly! If you ever do have the need, I hope you don't, to come up to use his services make sure you call me and we can get together if you have the time.

The timing of the fuel leak could not have been worse as I had at least 7/8 of a tank so I told Mike if need be cut a hole in the interior floor as I had read someone in the forum had done. I no sooner got the words out of my mouth before he said not on your life will he mess up the interior of the coach he would manage to do it and not to worry! Mike had previously called James who gave him detailed instructions on what was needed to get to the fuel lines so he was 100% well prepared on what he needed to do to get it done. Unfortunately he had to change out every fuel line in the coach because they all were bad and he showed them to me they were a mess, the cost of the fuel lines alone was $750.

Re: Where to service a Foretravel in the Northeast?

Reply #22 – December 16, 2011, 07:24:08 am

Hi everybody,

I must say, it has been frustrating to find someone who can work on my coach. I've wasted a lot of time and gotten nowhere. Ready to go see Mike - but - does he do chassis work, or am I better off at a Cummins authorized service center? Looking to change all fluids and filters, and have everything inspected underneath, including brakes, steering etc.

Thinking that even if he can't do it all, maybe he can do most of it?

Thanks for your help Tony. Appreciate it.

Steve

Re: Where to service a Foretravel in the Northeast?

Reply #23 – December 20, 2011, 11:10:05 pm

Quote from: Merle Hench – December 16, 2011, 07:24:08 am

Hi everybody,

I must say, it has been frustrating to find someone who can work on my coach. I've wasted a lot of time and gotten nowhere. Ready to go see Mike - but - does he do chassis work, or am I better off at a Cummins authorized service center? Looking to change all fluids and filters, and have everything inspected underneath, including brakes, steering etc.

Thinking that even if he can't do it all, maybe he can do most of it?

Steve

Hi Steve,

I can't answer your question but Mike has tackled quite an assortment of projects on my coach other than those mentioned above here are some more fixes: cabinet latches, fantastic fan replacement, radiator leaks, coolant system leaks, all fluids, filters, batteries and a complete coach inspection. I know he has plenty of room in his facility so I would certainly give him a call about the chassis problem. The phone number for McCarthy Tires is 410-288-9000 and Mike's cell number direct is 443-877-0543.
Sorry I did not reply sooner as I do not get on here every day.
Happy Holiday
Tony
PS Steve I just remembered that a couple of years ago when I first met mike he replaced my alternator and isolator and I asked him to check if there was any bulkhead separation, he immediately was under the coach to check it out. I would definitely call him and ask him to check out the coach chassis.

Re: Where to service a Foretravel in the Northeast?

Reply #24 – December 21, 2011, 10:05:00 am

Hi Tony,

As it happens, I spoke to Mike for awhile yesterday morning. A very refreshing conversation. I got a good feeling speaking with him; setting up to see him in late Feb/early Mar. His shop can handle everything on my list - excellent. He told me he'd also check everything out and let me know what it needs now, and what it might later down the road. He seems to know and understand what we deal with, and as you said, is a big fan of Foretravels.

Wish I'd called him first. Do not know why I didn't. For some reason, I got the impression this was an automotive tire shop, and he did sidework in the back parking lot. But this is a full service truck/industrial service outlet - they do specialize in tires, but they do it all. I was told when I arrive, my coach would be brought inside, and kept there until the work was done and I picked it up.

Thanks again Tony. Looking forward to meeting up with Mike.

Steve

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