just bought 89 grandvilla 3 days ago, need help getting it started, or tow advic

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just bought 89 grandvilla 3 days ago, need help getting it started, or tow advic

April 19, 2015, 09:14:54 pm

Hello, newbie here,

I Just bought an 89 Grandvilla 40' with Detroit 300

I don't know too much about diesel's ... wondering if there may be someone in Conroe or close by. specifically off 105 west that could help me get it started.

I have considered towing it, I have to get it to Houston, but Apple towing wants an arm and leg.

I didn't get any manuals with the purchase

Thanks for any advice,

Mark of Houston

It's been parked for almost two years now, but was driven there...

(tweaked formatting - Michelle)

Re: just bought 89 grandvilla 3 days ago, need help getting it started, or tow advic

Reply #1 – April 19, 2015, 09:33:55 pm

Mark,

Welcome to the ForeForum.

Tell us the status of trying to start it:

Does the engine turn over?

Does the generator start or do you have shore power where it is parked-- that will allow you to fully charge the batteries if they are still good (doubtful if they have sat dead for 2 years)?

If it is batteries, probably a lot cheaper to replace them where the coach sits than to have it towed.

Re: just bought 89 grandvilla 3 days ago, need help getting it started, or tow advic

Reply #2 – April 19, 2015, 09:46:01 pm

Welcome, Mark. I haven't been in Houston in 40 years, but how far do you have to go with it? I suspect that it is out of license, so it will need inspection, plates, etc. Do you have a plan for that?

In the meantime, start by cleaning all electrical connections, install new batteries, check/change fluids, etc. I suspect that you will have to change the tires, but they may be adequate for a short trip. Check the date codes on them and carefully inspect them. Since the coach has been sitting still for two years the tires will probably have flat spots that will make for a somewhat uncomfortable ride, but if you are only going a few miles you can probably tolerate it.

Re: just bought 89 grandvilla 3 days ago, need help getting it started, or tow advic

Reply #3 – April 20, 2015, 01:01:11 am

I would start with a call to a mobile mechanic service.
A list of things you have checked, and findings that you have made, will help with advice here.

Re: just bought 89 grandvilla 3 days ago, need help getting it started, or tow advic

Reply #4 – April 20, 2015, 08:52:48 am

Quote from: Mark of Houston – April 20, 2015, 01:05:52 am

will any standard 12 volt battery charger work?
Any charger will work...if it has a specific setting for "Gel" or "Maintenance Free" that would be better.

How long do you have to charge an 8D battery till it' full?
Like any battery - charge it until it quits taking a charge. If battery has removable caps, check electrolyte level before charging.

Tires were almost new before he parked it..
This may be true, or not. Don't go by appearance or what PO said. Check the DOT date on tire sidewalls to be sure.

Funds are so tight, I almost didn't buy the coach .. but I am glad I did, I have been wanting a grand villa for a very long time.
You have taken the most important first step to owning a great, well-built, classic motor coach. Congratulations!

Can you start the motor with just one battery ?
Yes (Stump already answered this). Be sure the battery cable connections are clean and tight!

If I can fire up the generator, I assume it charges the batteries when it runs?
Yes this is correct, if everything is working properly.

Should I change or at least clean the fuel filters?
Get the big engine running first, then worry about the filters. Much easier to change them if engine is fully warmed up.

Are there glow plugs that have to be warmed up first to start?
I don't know Detroits, but the starting sequence should be automatic, whatever is required.
Hopefully other members (Stump) can add more info on this question?

Do I need to prime it?
Detroit Diesel owners please answer this question!

It would be nice if I had an owners manual.. are they available?
Some parts of some owners manuals are possibly available from the factory. Also try searching on eBay.

I have to drive about 53 miles to get it home.
53 miles through Houston traffic in a strange coach with unknown mechanical condition? You are a BRAVE man!

Re: just bought 89 grandvilla 3 days ago, need help getting it started, or tow advic

Reply #5 – April 20, 2015, 08:57:59 am

Quote from: Mark of Houston – April 20, 2015, 01:05:52 am

Tires were almost new before he parked it..

This doesn't entirely matter. Tires age out. As Chuck says in his post, what's the DOT date code on them (check them all, don't assume they are all the same). If over 5 years old you should think about budgeting for new ones in the next year (assuming there's no sidewall cracking indicating replacement needs to be a high priority). The cost of tires would most likely be small in comparison to the cost of repairs if one blows at highway speed and takes out fiberglass and other things.

Re: just bought 89 grandvilla 3 days ago, need help getting it started, or tow advic

Reply #6 – April 20, 2015, 10:05:45 am

I think Kemahjohn meant that the drive shaft needs to be removed, not the axles. That would really be a tough tow.

Roger

Re: just bought 89 grandvilla 3 days ago, need help getting it started, or tow advic

Reply #7 – April 20, 2015, 10:10:06 am

Roger, Removing the axles has the same affect as removing the drive shaft and is easier in my opinion. When you remove the drive shaft you really have to be careful and mark it so that it can be installed exactly the way it was removed.
Gary B

Re: just bought 89 grandvilla 3 days ago, need help getting it started, or tow advic

Reply #8 – April 20, 2015, 12:57:00 pm

Yes, removing the axle shafts OR driveshaft does the same thing-- allows the coach to be safely towed.

BUT, I would only do this after exhausting all "in place" solutions.

Re: just bought 89 grandvilla 3 days ago, need help getting it started, or tow advic

Reply #9 – April 20, 2015, 01:14:21 pm

Good advice above. If you absolutely can't start it, don't remove the drive shaft but buy or make hub covers and remove BOTH axles (regardless of what the tow truck driver says). Too easy to lose the drive shaft fasteners, fail to mark it for balance, fail to torque it correctly when re-installing, etc.

If a Detroit 6V-92TA has fuel, it WILL start, even after years of sitting. Find and use the manual (hand) fuel pump to purge air. After making sure it has oil pressure, monitor the temperature to make sure you don't have a stuck thermostat. If coolant level is low, the DDEC (computer) won't allow the engine to turn over.

Don't let anyone talk you into a multigrade oil for the Detroit! Search previous posts. Delo 100 (not 400), Shell Rotella, other very low ash straight SAE 40 oils are to be used. Buy 7 gallons. It will use 5.5 gallons so you will have some left over to carry with you.

Use your phone to call other Detroit/Allison owners for advice. No need to reinvent the wheel.

Pierce

Re: just bought 89 grandvilla 3 days ago, need help getting it started, or tow advic

Reply #10 – April 20, 2015, 01:18:14 pm

FWIW, Decrepit derelict 89 OREG has set on a lot near me for at least five years. I noticed a week ago that someone had the hatches open and was working on it. Before I could get back and be nosey it was gone. I HOPE that someone was getting it running so that they could rehab it. Will be a lifetime job, broken windows, graffiti, mold, really sorry looking and an OREG too, quite a project.
Gary B

Re: just bought 89 grandvilla 3 days ago, need help getting it started, or tow advic

Reply #11 – April 20, 2015, 05:11:42 pm

Mark: There may be manuals on the internet. google for them. Beamalarm could have them. DAN

Re: just bought 89 grandvilla 3 days ago, need help getting it started, or tow advic

Reply #12 – April 20, 2015, 08:21:15 pm

I posted most all the electrical schematics for U300s. Do a search and if you can't find them, I'll send you the PDF's. Foretravel had included manuals for all the brakes, transmission, air suspension, etc from the major suppliers but aside from the good electrical schematics, not real accurate info on filters, block heaters, capacities for the Detroit engine. There are side radiators and two kinds at that and then the rear radiator you have, two or three air intake systems, exhaust, etc. The internet is a good source for valve adjustment, correct oil, and the forum for owners who have had lots of experience with the little stuff.

Here is the link to the most important site: Foreforums Foretravel Wiki

Pierce

Re: just bought 89 grandvilla 3 days ago, need help getting it started, or tow advic

Reply #13 – April 20, 2015, 08:58:38 pm

Mark,
A word about the air bag leveling system on your coach. Your 89 has the manual leveling like my coach. It went away starting in 92 with the HWH electronic system. Few people on the forum are familiar with the manual system. There are three black metal levers on the left side of the drivers seat built into the floor. When you move/drive the coach you want all three of those levers in the middle upright position - you should be able to feel a detent for the center position. The center position sets all the air bags for travel height. Of course they won't do anything unless the brake system air pressure has built up. Your coach will also have a 3/4hp 120VAC air compressor under the steps in the basement - it will run only if you have shore or generator power. It's controlled with a common pressure switch found on many small shop air compressors (goes on at about 75 psi and off at about 100psi). That is all you need to know to get it home. Leveling is only really necessary if your refrigerator is running.
Once home you can read about how to level the coach from the attached instructions.

Re: just bought 89 grandvilla 3 days ago, need help getting it started, or tow advic

Reply #14 – April 20, 2015, 09:58:17 pm

That manual leveling system is the best there is. I have it on my 1990 U280. It never breaks. Oh how I wish I had it on my 96' U320 instead of the HWH.

Re: just bought 89 grandvilla 3 days ago, need help getting it started, or tow advic

Reply #15 – April 21, 2015, 03:34:51 am

Quote from: Kemahjohn – April 20, 2015, 09:24:05 am

I am south of Houston and will be on the north side later this week. Might be able to come by and give you a hand if you like.

Thanks John,

I am being a little overwhelmed.. sheesh.. wish I wasn't under the gun to move it so quickly... your going to be in the Conroe area later this week ?

(Edited to clip quote (let's all try to remember to do this when responding

) - Michelle)

Re: just bought 89 grandvilla 3 days ago, need help getting it started, or tow advic

Reply #16 – April 21, 2015, 03:36:49 am

Thanks for bringing this to my attention.. important stuff...

Quote from: JohnFitz – April 20, 2015, 08:58:38 pm

Mark,
A word about the air bag leveling system on your coach. Your 89 has the manual leveling like my coach. It went away starting in 92 with the HWH electronic system. Few people on the forum are familiar with the manual system. There are three black metal levers on the left side of the drivers seat built into the floor. When you move/drive the coach you want all three of those levers in the middle upright position - you should be able to feel a detent for the center position. The center position sets all the air bags for travel height. Of course they won't do anything unless the brake system air pressure has built up. Your coach will also have a 3/4hp 120VAC air compressor under the steps in the basement - it will run only if you have shore or generator power. It's controlled with a common pressure switch found on many small shop air compressors (goes on at about 75 psi and off at about 100psi). That is all you need to know to get it home. Leveling is only really necessary if your refrigerator is running.
Once home you can read about how to level the coach from the attached instructions.

Re: just bought 89 grandvilla 3 days ago, need help getting it started, or tow advic

Reply #17 – April 21, 2015, 01:40:57 pm

Just an update and info.

I have pictures of my coach in an email.. I don't know how I'd post them to share on the forum.

There is all new wood flooring, an a new headliner from front to back...

I Paid 6K for it and bought it sight unseen. just the pictures of it and speaking with the owner on the phone. His Son passed away who really owned it, and was buried last Saturday, God rest his soul.

The exterior is a little rough as all the decals are removed. He was working on the exterior before he got sick.

I am working on a check list now...

I don't know what kind of transmission fluid I need yet for that Allison. Can you check the tranny fluid without it running? or is it like most cars, check when hot and engine running ?

What about the coolant? just put water in it? or use some antifreeze too?

There is no bottom step to get in, its missing.. just a wire hanging there, I assume it was electric?

I will build a set of wooden steps today to take along. It would be nice if I knew how high it is from the ground to the first step. I am needing double hip replacement, and walk with 2 canes, I should have measured it when I was there last Friday

Lining up liability insurance today, an purchasing a one way trip tag.

I am a bit scared to fire it up, so afraid I'm going to screw something up.

Thanks to everyone for all your input

Mark

Re: just bought 89 grandvilla 3 days ago, need help getting it started, or tow advic

Reply #18 – April 21, 2015, 03:03:51 pm

If it has lube oil and coolant and transmission fluid is showing on the stick, it should be fine to crank. The transmission fluid should be checked again as soon as it's running to see if it's in range.

Re: just bought 89 grandvilla 3 days ago, need help getting it started, or tow advic

Reply #19 – April 21, 2015, 06:27:27 pm

Quote from: Mark of Houston – April 21, 2015, 01:40:57 pm

The exterior is a little rough as all the decals are removed.

There are a number of Foretravel coaches running around the country "naked" (without any decals). Some owners actually prefer the "clean" look of all-white gelcoat (you know who you are). The exterior can be buffed out to a really nice looking, extremely smooth finish, and then sealed. You might find the look grows on you!

Re: just bought 89 grandvilla 3 days ago, need help getting it started, or tow advic

Reply #20 – April 21, 2015, 06:47:44 pm

Mark, to be sure Trans oil level is correct, check after you've brought the eng up to temps, check with eng in neutral, idling.
Welcome aboard, you will have fun with your new coach!

Re: just bought 89 grandvilla 3 days ago, need help getting it started, or tow advic

Reply #21 – April 21, 2015, 06:56:44 pm

The ...743.jpg is our U300 taken this last January in Quartzsite. Yes, we do like the look. Was thinking about a bit of a Deco design with the period colors but not that easy to revisit the 1930's without some artistic talent. I might be lacking there so it will stay white for a while.

An air compressor with a HF air sander, a very, very small spray from a hose and some 3000 wet or dry will make the Fiberglas shine. The sander is only about $25 and works better than the $250 dedicated air/water sanders. See at: Jitterbug Orbital Air Sander Will take a few days and a lot of patience to get it right. Ours is not all done yet.

Pierce

Re: just bought 89 grandvilla 3 days ago, need help getting it started, or tow advic

Reply #22 – April 21, 2015, 07:28:03 pm

Quote from: cajk – April 21, 2015, 06:27:27 pm

There are a number of Foretravel coaches running around the country "naked" (without any decals). Some owners actually prefer the "clean" look of all-white gelcoat (you know who you are). The exterior can be buffed out to a really nice looking, extremely smooth finish, and then sealed. You might find the look grows on you!

I do like this look.. it stands out nicely and is different.. thanks for those pics !

Re: just bought 89 grandvilla 3 days ago, need help getting it started, or tow advic

Reply #23 – April 21, 2015, 10:08:01 pm

Quote from: Mark of Houston – April 21, 2015, 01:40:57 pm

I have pictures of my coach in an email.. I don't know how I'd post them to share on the forum.

Mark: Send me a direct message, I'll give you my email, you can send those pictures and I can post them for you.

Re: just bought 89 grandvilla 3 days ago, need help getting it started, or tow advic

Reply #24 – April 21, 2015, 10:42:42 pm

Here are Mark's pictures. Folks, this has to be the deal of the century!

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