What would you do?

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- Reviving the 94 U280 - need to get generator running

What would you do?

April 14, 2015, 11:03:06 pm

Ok..Inherited my parents 1994 U-280 Grand Villa w/ 25,000 miles. I am in my 50's, kids are grown and I would like to get it up and in dependable working condition.
It has been in storage since 2004. I am currently having the transmission ECU and remote rebuilt by Transmission Instruments ...so it is still stuck in storage. I have changed all of the batteries, fluids and filters on the engine. Have had the alternator rebuilt. Seems to run fine. I have changed the solenoids and checked almost every connection for corrosion.
Here are my known issues:
OUTSIDE AND BASEMENT
1. Critters have been in the basement so the carpet in the basement has to be replaced. Thankfully no signs of any damage to any wiring...just the carpet.
2. Generator won't crank. Hopefully this is just due to corroded connections, but will not be able to access the generator until I can get it backed out.
3. When the water pump is turned on, water leaks out from below from where I assume the tank is located.
4. Tires...while they look good with little cracking they are the original 1994 tires!
5. Heat /sound deadening material over engine and around generator falling off.
6. Need to have transmission serviced
7. Change all engine hoses.

INSIDE
1. Captain's chairs have to be replaced or recovered...vinyl is sticky and deteriorated
2. Dash and sun visors recovered...vinyl is deteriorated and sticky
3. Cassette radio...gotta go
4. A/C is low and is a R-12 system...need to convert to R134a
5. The freezer portion of the refrigerator /freezer gets cold...refrigerator is hot....Might be a thermostat?
6. Carpet...yuck...needs to go
7. Upholstery on jack knife sofa...needs to go
8. Bedding and valances and headboard...need to go
9. Back up camera needs to be updated.
10. TV's updated...nix the VCR
11. Would like to add a TV for outside....In the basement or through the side.
12. Would like to update lighting to LED
13. Would like to update and get rid of polished brass bath fixtures
14. Would like to updated all of the flooring.

So here is my dilemma...I know the updated and repairs are going to cost probably as much as the coach is worth. The above list is only what I know now...There will be more. I can do a lot of it my self, but the some will have to be done elsewhere. I know that FOT and MOT are probably the best...but is it worth it to be done there? Done at all anywhere. Some of the items are wants...not necessities I know. I admit there is a certain amount of sentimental value. My dad loved his Foretravel! So...what would you do? I am open for suggestions.

Karl Shurtleff
Kingwood, TX

Re: What would you do?

Reply #1 – April 14, 2015, 11:24:38 pm

I have no idea what issues you will face but I do know a 94 U280 is like nothing made these days. We loved our 92 and some of the repairs you mentioned aren't that expensive if you can do the work.

How long did your dad own the coach?

Good luck with it

Re: What would you do?

Reply #2 – April 14, 2015, 11:31:47 pm

Quote from: Johnstons – April 14, 2015, 11:24:38 pm

I have no idea what issues you will face but I do know a 94 U280 is like nothing made these days. We loved our 92 and some of the repairs you mentioned aren't that expensive if you can do the work.

How long did your dad own the coach?

Good luck with it

He bought it new in 1994 and passed away in 1996. We used it some with my mother but just locally...day trips. She died in 2004 and it has been parked since then. I think he paid close to 300K for it and now I see them online for sale for 30-40K

Re: What would you do?

Reply #3 – April 15, 2015, 12:07:36 am

Work your way through the mechanicals , sounds like you have made a good start , get the generator running , new tires then at least you have a running project .

Re: What would you do?

Reply #4 – April 15, 2015, 12:23:49 am

Yes get it up and running then drive it down to Mexico ( I gether Laredo is close to you but get past there by a couple hundred KMs and let them do all the replacing of materials etc as it will be a LOT cheaper there than even you doing it)
These coach's are pretty simple to work on and any fix's are very reasonable. I have done 3 now so if you need some ideas give me a pm or just ask away on this forum
JohnH

Re: What would you do?

Reply #5 – April 15, 2015, 08:56:00 am

John can probably suggest some good places in Mexico for new interior .
It's a family coach that has meaning to you ,

Re: What would you do?

Reply #6 – April 15, 2015, 09:05:04 am

We remodeled a much loved 1990 U280 and did many of the things you are looking at. It is worth the trouble and expense. You will love that coach, and you will find it more reliable and cheaper to maintain than a newer one. True, you will have some coach bucks invested by the time you are done, but you will also have a coach that was worth it!

Re: What would you do?

Reply #7 – April 15, 2015, 09:12:00 am

I would totally remodel it. It is a gem with little miles and a lot of life left

Re: What would you do?

Reply #8 – April 15, 2015, 09:12:39 am

You couldn't be in a much better position to tackle a big project like this. The '93-'94 U280 was one of the best coaches ever built by Foretravel (totally unbiased opinion). You are starting out with a cash basis of ZERO, so no matter how far you go or where you stop in the restoration process you will most certainly be able to recoup your expenses. If you decide to go the professional route, everything you need done can be done close by in Nacogdoches (FOT, MOT, Xtreme Paint and Graphics, Infinity Custom Interiors, Berndt Ramspeck). Or, you could turn it into a (expensive and time-consuming) HOBBY, and do some of the stuff yourself. You are relatively young, so you can afford to take your time with the project. I guarantee you will learn something, and make interesting new friends, as you gradually get that fine old coach whipped into shape.

Deal with the basic running gear first, and get it SAFELY back on the road - tires, brakes, suspension, lights, wipers, and air horns (horns are high priority item, because they are so much FUN). Then prioritize all the other stuff, and tackle one thing at a time. That way it won't be so totally overwhelming, and you can spread out the expense. Almost ANY problem you might encounter along the way has likely been dealt with by one or more Forum members, so you will have lots of help available. All you have to do is ask!

Good luck with the project! Take (and post) many photos - we LIKE photos!

Re: What would you do?

Reply #9 – April 15, 2015, 09:35:53 am

You are already ahead with the 6 speed. Put on a PRXB exh brake (your engine should have already had the upgraded exh valve springs). If you really want some power add a Banks kit. The rest is busy work. I loved my 93 U280 with a rare pecan interior.

Re: What would you do?

Reply #10 – April 15, 2015, 10:02:51 am

Your refrigerator is acting just like mine did before catching fire. The cooling unit is clogged and will overheat and then leak hydrogen gas and ammonia, both flammable. Don't try running it any further. You should be able to replace the cooling unit yourself with a rebuilt one. I'm told the Amish ones are very good, and reasonably priced.

And also from a safety standpoint, replacing the tires needs to be done right away. Get a mobile truck tire service to come out or just drive a few miles very slowly to get it done.

Re: What would you do?

Reply #11 – April 15, 2015, 10:43:36 am

Quote

What would you do?

I would definitely get that sweet 280 back on the road. This sounds like a 100% fun project. You'll get a lot of vicarious participation and active help from this group. I look forward to your photos and posts.
jor

Re: What would you do?

Reply #12 – April 15, 2015, 01:03:29 pm

Your Dad bought a Jim dandy... In your situation I would keep and restore that baby in a New York minute. I bet your Dad would be proud and my bet is you will be as well.

Re: What would you do?

Reply #13 – April 15, 2015, 03:07:51 pm

Quote from: Karl Shurtleff – April 14, 2015, 11:31:47 pm

He bought it new in 1994 and passed away in 1996. We used it some with my mother but just locally...day trips. She died in 2004 and it has been parked since then. I think he paid close to 300K for it and now I see them online for sale for 30-40K

Actual selling price of these is more like $15K-$25. Your low mileage unit may be on the high end of that but as you can see, sitting idle is not kind to vehicles.
If you think you will use it, go for the restoration.
Good luck,

Re: What would you do?

Reply #14 – April 15, 2015, 04:14:31 pm

FWIW,
I think you have a honey. I think if I were in your position, I would do as much as I could on my own (assuming I knew what I was doing), as I think I would enjoy the satisfaction of spending time fixing what my dad had thought so much of at the time. I think every minute will be well spent.
Reflecting on what others have said, agree tires, fluid changes, other preventive mantience is essential.
LED light bulbs are available for your brass fixtures, just take them out and go to ebay and order new ones that are LED. I also took out most of the flourescent tubes and ran the wire to LED strips that I also got on ebay. I still have my brass fixtures and they work, so I have changed all of them to Led's. I think the upholstry and valences could be a nice update, you might try to fix them at same time. Just get enough material for both. The seats/jlounge, need professional help, Mexico is an option. I have some guys near me that are pretty good and not worth the added expense of driving to Mexico. Flooring update is a great idea. I plan on doing some myself. Right now, I plan to leave the bedroom with the carpet as it looks good. Plan to change all the rest to some sort of vinyl stone looking tile. The refrigerator, probably change it out to a residental one. Haier makes one that should fit and can get at home depot. The TVs are relatively cheap if you replace them yourself. I did, it does take some time but not too bad. I am happy that I changed mine. I had my dash radio changed at Best Buy. I got the radio there and they did the install. Happy with the new radio. I changed out my front speakers as they were tired. These new ones have a nice sound. Yes, could have spent more but these are AOK for my ears.
Have fun!

Best of travels,

Re: What would you do?

Reply #15 – April 15, 2015, 04:50:40 pm

Gary Omel reminded me that most 94 models were ordered with the transmission retarder. You can check the id tag on the drivers side of the trans just above the pan (behind the dual). If it says HD3060R, the R designation indicates the retarder option. The factory can also determine the trans originally optioned for the coach. Final clue is a RETARDER rocker switch to the right of the drivers seat as most early models didn't have the joystick. That enables the 3 step actuation.
If so, you won't need and exhaust brake.

Re: What would you do?

Reply #16 – April 15, 2015, 05:37:21 pm

Quote from: cajk – April 15, 2015, 09:12:39 am

you could turn it into a (expensive and time-consuming) HOBBY, and do some of the stuff yourself. You are relatively young, so you can afford to take your time with the project. I guarantee you will learn something, and make interesting new friends, as you gradually get that fine old coach whipped into shape.

Deal with the basic running gear first, and get it SAFELY back on the road - tires, brakes, suspension, lights, wipers, and air horns (horns are high priority item, because they are so much FUN). Then prioritize all the other stuff, and tackle one thing at a time. That way it won't be so totally overwhelming, and you can spread out the expense. Almost ANY problem you might encounter along the way has likely been dealt with by one or more Forum members, so you will have lots of help available. All you have to do is ask!

Good luck with the project! Take (and post) many photos - we LIKE photos!

Chuck has a way with words

You're starting with better than a diamond in the rough. Take care of the things needed to get her safely on the road and capable of a couple of short trips. Figure out how you like to use the coach, then start tackling the cosmetics as needed. Post photos, ask for ideas, and especially ASK FOR HELP when you can't figure something out. That's what the forum and the wonderful membership are here for. We'll support you every step of the way, we'll enjoy spending your money vicariously, and we will all try to help you save money and frustration. As much as you can do yourself of anything you'll save on the order of $120/hour and the satisfaction of having learned how to do it and more about your coach.

Big upholstery you'll probably need to contract out. Smaller stuff like valances really aren't that hard to do yourself (I've done all of ours). Headboard probably isn't that difficult, either. Carpet - unless you hate the color or it's damaged, try steam cleaning it first. We've noticed the 90's era coaches were build with high quality carpet that continues to look like new decades later. With different upholstery it might not be so bad.

We're looking forward to your journey bringing her back on the road...

Michelle

Re: What would you do?

Reply #17 – April 15, 2015, 05:49:15 pm

Sounds like you have a great plan to resurrect a great coach. You are only two hours or so away from Nac, so it ought to be easy to get there for whatever you want them to do for you. If it was indoors all these years those tires might be good enough to get you to the tire store. Check out joining FMCA to use their Michelin discount.

Changing all fluids and filters is a must. Also, remember that there are many seals that have dried out from lack of use, so expect various leaks. Some you will be able to take care of yourself before you do much else, but some won't show up until later. You may well find yourself taking care of one seal and then find that the next one in line has started leaking. Been there, done that.

Take lots of pictures as you are taking things apart. You will find more things that need doing as you go along. Use the coach as soon as it is ready to go. That will help you decide what you want to do, and what order you want to do it in. Priorities will change.

Re: What would you do?

Reply #18 – April 15, 2015, 06:16:13 pm

John and others have it right on doing the interior in Mexico. Check my old posts for photos of the quality work they do. Almost anything you need, paint, engine, etc, they can do. Carpet too. There is a big Allison factory shop on the other side, close to the border. I have a great guy that does our work but lots of shops close to you in border towns. PM for tips on making sure the job is done to your satisfaction. Using the two front chairs as an example, the cost for a better than OEM material (in my opinion) was about $550 for both including R&R.

Would check before replacing the engine hoses. They are probably silicone and will outlast the vehicle. Ours are original.

Shop for tires. Just because one brand costs more and advertises more does not make it any better.

Take your time and you can do most everything yourself for a fraction of the cost. Ours had been sitting for several years and had only a couple of small things go wrong. We knew the fridge was bad going in. At your coach's age, expect to have to replace the fridge. Jerry just did his '93 with a helium charged unit. Had it shipped and did the installation himself. Lots of help here, just ask.

Pierce

Re: What would you do?

Reply #19 – April 15, 2015, 06:43:58 pm

Karl,
I agree with all of the above advice given so far. I do have some advice on #3:

Quote from: Karl Shurtleff – April 14, 2015, 11:03:06 pm

3. When the water pump is turned on, water leaks out from below from where I assume the tank is located.

On all Unihomes and Unicoaches you want to keep the basements (including the one that contains the tanks, pump and water heater) as dry as possible. Water can migrate through a screw hole or edge (where the caulking has separated) and get around the 1-1/2" square steel tubing that is laminated between the fiberglass sheet in the basement floor. Once in it's difficult for the water to dry out so rust can set in and do damage. My advice right now is leave the pump off until you can check it out good and be ready with towels to catch any leaking inside the basement. If your lucky maybe it's just a drain valve left open. Drain valves are directly below the water heater.

Re: What would you do?

Reply #20 – April 15, 2015, 06:47:18 pm

too cool, wish my Dad had left me this coach.

Get it on the road
Take it to Nacogdoches and get estimates -
heavy chassis stuff best handled by experts like Bernd in Nacogdoches
Mexico a really good option for the interior, maybe the exterior
Infinity in Nacogdoches more cost effective than Foretravel if you stay stateside for interior stuff
MOT rocks for most anything Foretravel
DIY is always the cheapest

if you decide you don't want to take this on, post a classified here, you will likely get the most $$$ from someone here - but please don't the coach will serve you well for the rest of your life and every day you will be connected to your past in a ver special way.

Re: What would you do?

Reply #21 – April 15, 2015, 06:56:59 pm

Plan on junking fridge and tires. Batteries already done. Generator, water heater, furnace, etc will probably be fine with minimal maintenance Have fun! Or sell it to me

Re: What would you do?

Reply #22 – April 15, 2015, 07:09:41 pm

Karl,
Restore it. You have been given good advice. Here is my two cents worht ( $ are ballpark estimates):
Priority #1( $3,500) Change fluids and filters on everything.
New tires, the only place I would drive it would be directly to the tire store.
Priority #2 ($4,500) Replace fuel lines and airbags, soon to avoid costly repairs in the event of failure. I just had mine replaced by RB
Vehicle Services ( i.e. Bernd) in Nacogdoches. I recommend him.
Priority #3 ($1,400) Shock absorbers may need to be replaced if the seals have dried out. Bernd can replace those, too. He gives a
nice discount to Motorcade members (contact Foretravel and you should get a free first year membership).
Priority #4 Evaluate your coach batteries (2 @ $180 ea) and house batteries (3 @ $240 ea) and replace as necessary.
Priority #5 Have your refrigerator checked by a qualified technician before you try to use it. Refrigerators are the cause of a lot of
serious RV fires.

Once the coach is running safely, then deal with the livability and cosmetic issues. In the end, you will have an almost new Foretravel that can't be duplicated today for the money you will have in it.

Good luck on your new adventure.

Re: What would you do?

Reply #23 – April 15, 2015, 07:41:33 pm

All great advice , once you have it roadworthy , steam the carpets , clean the heck out of everything else , glue back or temp repair the upholstery and get a few local trips out of it .
I learned that no matter what the age or mileage they are all a work in progress

Re: What would you do?

Reply #24 – April 15, 2015, 08:43:08 pm

Amen to the work in progress!

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