I want one so bad I can taste it, but which one?!:-)

[Opuntia]

I'm hoping to hit the road in year, full time in a vintage Wanderlodge. I'll be seeing the Country and rock hunting in between. Last year I started looking at the BB's and WOW... so many gorgeous vintage buses! I think I don't want one longer than 32' so I can get into all the BLM camping areas. I think FC's are out because they don't seem to have much power and it appears the engines/trany's can be a problem, or at least a big maintenance issue. I'm handy, but I'm no mechanic, so I'd like to find a vintage bus that everyone can work on. I'm drawn to 2 axle buses because I read they handle great in terms of taking turns, etc.

As far as the interior goes, I don't really care so much about what kind of bed, where it is or if it has a built-in blender and coffee maker, etc. I'm more interested in the engine, transmission, brakes and all the other mechanical things that effect reliability. Being on my own makes this a priority for me.

I just can't get past the look of the vintage 70's and 80's buses, maybe to early 90's. They are absolutely beautiful. I'd love to adopt one, if I knew which one to adopt!

Any advice, opinions would be very, very welcome! I am out of my element here! One year of reading about Wanderlodges does not an expert make!

Thanks...

Mimi

[csprenger]

Use this http://www.vintagebirds.com/history2.htm#Highlights to get a better understanding. If FCs are out...the PTs start at 35'.

More info. here http://www.vintagebirds.com/history.htm

Good luck in your search.

[Opuntia]

Thanks Curt.Those are great sites! I did some more checking and it appears that a 35' bus shouldn't be too much of an issue on BLM land. Do you know if it's difficult finding people who know how to work on FC's? I read the Cat 3208 (I think it was) is easier to work on. I can do some plumbing, maybe changing oil and other fluids, repair moldings, and some other things, but I can't do any engine or electrical repair work. I -love- the look of the '82 FC33 ( http://www.viewrvs.com/motorhome/blue-bi...fc33-a.php ) and would really enjoy keeping one on the road. I understand why there are Wanderlodge groups like WanderlodgeGurus, WOG, etc. It's just an exceptional machine. I helped a friend of mine restore a 1952 MG TD. It felt really good bringing it back to life and watching it roll down the road. I'd like to experience that same feeling with a Wanderlodge, though I wouldn't mind if it wasn't in need of a total restoration. I guess I just don't know if I'm biting off more than I can chew.

I just don't know which requires more attention, the FC or PT and which one has a better reputation for reliability, given that both have been properly maintained. I know nothing is bullet proof, but just looking for some measure of reliability.