New Bird
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09-18-2006, 16:37
Post: #11
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New Bird
You described the same symptom that I had an our last bird, an '81 FC31. I
spent over $4K fighting this "handling issue". I learned early on that the "dog bone" or pan hard rod ends were suspect but they are apparently hard to look at or inspect so they didn't get fixed or even looked at. I had it to a alignment shop twice, every thing was "fine". I installed a Super Steer shock that didn't help very much. Anyway, I wouldn't wait too long, unless you have lots of $$ to play this game, to insist that the pan hard rod ends get checked, both front and rear. I think you will save time and bucks if you do it now. It is a common problem and often over looked or wrongly diagnosed. Good luck. Dick Hayden - '87 PT 38 - Lake Stevens, WA ----- Original Message ----- From: Dan To: WanderlodgeForum@yahoogroups.com Sent: Monday, September 18, 2006 7:53 PM Subject: Re: [WanderlodgeForum] New Bird Don, I don't think that steering is normal. How was it a fight to bring it back on track? Dan 81FCRB33 ----- Original Message ----- From: w3www2oo To: WanderlodgeForum@yahoogroups.com Sent: Monday, September 18, 2006 1:44 PM Subject: [WanderlodgeForum] New Bird Well, I finally did it and I'm now an offical BB owner. Picked her (87FC35) up over the weekend and survived the maiden voyage. Now the questions begin: Please Help!!! Actually, only one is of any importance. The tracking on her seems a bit strange, but it could just be me. Cruising at about 60-65MPH up US 27 in Central FL, I had an issue that felt like a gust of wind hit me and was pushing me off the road. It was a fight to bring it back on track. ( i think it was referred to in a previous post as "Darting"). I'm sure you know, one of those that causes your breathing to stop. Then it happened again, and it was dead calm out. I also noticed the steering was a bit sloppy. It seemed to Wander around a bit. The tires are new Michlein 12R x 22.5 XRZs (might be a problem if they are not as good as XR2s). I have read several previous posts regarding the front end issues and don't know which is most likely. The coach has 104K miles on it with the last alignment done at approximately 50K. Could it be the King Pin lubrication, steering box, shocks or what or all. Where should I concentrate first? At least the ZF worked well. It almost snapped my neck a few times shifting and talk about power. I was not expecting that kind of acceleration out of a 34,000 pound vehicle. Everything seemed to function fine based on a newbies standpoint. Temps stayed low (engine/transmission wise), even on a 95 degree day. My co-pilot would tend to disagree concerning the interior temps though. Anyhow, we are looking forward to meeting all of you fine folks at the RIV. I just need to get my act together and sign up, or figure out how to. Don & Judy Mohney 87FC35 ---------------------------------------------------------- No virus found in this incoming message. Checked by AVG Free Edition. Version: 7.1.405 / Virus Database: 268.12.4/449 - Release Date: 9/15/2006 [Non-text portions of this message have been removed] [Non-text portions of this message have been removed] |
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09-18-2006, 17:38
Post: #12
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New Bird
Don:
As many on the forum would likely advise, never ignore a "perhaps I'm just over-reacting." If it got your attention, check it out - really. It could be any number of things. We have an old saying in the aviation field - if something does not feel right, deal with it on the ground ("the takeoff is optional - the landing is mandatory.") [ ![]() criteria with steering wheel play on the buses I drive is if there is more than 4 inches of play in a 22" steering wheel, that bus doesn't go with me until it has been repaired. (I drive a lot of two-lane roads in the Utah mountains - some with little or no shoulder - so it's a little more crtitical to be on the mark. There is good help on this forum, you'll find it instructive and helpful. As a Wannabe, I have a much keener insight of the "Birds." Good luck and enjoy your new bird. Joe (Pappy) Hagan St. George, UT Wannabe --- In WanderlodgeForum@yahoogroups.com, "w3www2oo" > > Thank you all for the kind words and suggestions. I'll look into all > that was mentioned. > > Some of what I'm going through could be over reacting. But, I've > noticed when you turn 60, that's getting to be quite common. The > only thing that convinced me that there may be a problem ( I failed to > mention this part) was when turning a slow (5-10+/- mph) sharp corner, > the steering wheel starts to shake or oscillate. Sometime this week > I'll check the bolts, drag link and look for loose parts. > > Afterwards, I'll check things out with a quick "shake down" run up to > River Ranch this weekend. > > Don & Judy Mohney > Jensen Beach, FL > 87FC35 > [Non-text portions of this message have been removed] |
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09-18-2006, 20:20
Post: #13
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New Bird
Pappy- your expertise in driving busses can help us all. If you get a chance
tell me how you drive in snow- pros and cons. Thanks, Ernie Ekberg 83 PT40 Livingston, Montana maybe having to drive in snow going home in Dec to Texas [Non-text portions of this message have been removed] |
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09-19-2006, 09:35
Post: #14
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New Bird
Dan,
It was quite an experience. Just glad I was on a lightly traveled 4 lane road with an 8-10' apron. It just kept moving on to the right and did not want to recover or respond. Not a quick push, such as wind. I have owned a couple of much lighter Class A 35&38' coaches and am quite familiar (not comfortable) with being pushed around. This was much different. Needless to say, after that I took it very easy the rest of the way. I've had some excellent feed back, thanks to this group, and will investigate everything, especially the pan hard bolts and bushings. Don Mohney Jensen Beach, FL 87FC35SB --- In WanderlodgeForum@yahoogroups.com, "Dan" wrote: > > Don, I don't think that steering is normal. How was it a fight to bring it back on track? > > Dan > 81FCRB33 > ----- Original Message ----- > From: w3www2oo > To: WanderlodgeForum@yahoogroups.com > Sent: Monday, September 18, 2006 1:44 PM > Subject: [WanderlodgeForum] New Bird > > > > > > > > > -------------------------------------------------------------------- ---------- > > > No virus found in this incoming message. > Checked by AVG Free Edition. > Version: 7.1.405 / Virus Database: 268.12.4/449 - Release Date: 9/15/2006 > > > [Non-text portions of this message have been removed] > |
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09-19-2006, 10:19
Post: #15
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New Bird
The Panhard rod is named after Rene Panhard who founded the Panhard
et Levassor automobile company with Emile Levassor in 1890. His automobiles won numerous races from 1895 to 1903 during which the original Panhard rod (or track bar) was developed. This suspension component provides lateral location of the axle, while allowing vertical movement of the wheels, but restricting side to side movement. It runs parallel to the rear axle, connecting one end on the axle with the other end attached to the chassis on the opposite side of the vehicle. (It really doesn't matter if it runs left to right or right to left.) In general, the longer the rod, the more desirable it is as it forces vertical movement in an arc. There are other suspension designs that do not use Panhard rods, but they are quite common on 'live axle' suspension designs. So, please, it is not a "pan hard" rod, but a Panhard rod. Thanks. Pete Masterson aeonix1@... '95 Bluebird Wanderlodge WBDA 42' El Sobrante, CA On Sep 19, 2006, at 2:35 PM, w3www2oo wrote: > <snip> especially the pan hard bolts and bushings. [Non-text portions of this message have been removed] |
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09-19-2006, 14:20
Post: #16
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New Bird
Ernie:
Im not sure about "expertise," however I do have a little experience. The PT series 40' - 43' is as close to the bus type vehicles I have driven over the years. Snow is a multi-faceted creature, fluffy, wet, dry, frozen, slush - all a result of temperature (both ambient and road temperatures). Usually, the fuel tanks are behind the front axle - full tanks help with weight distribution (more weight on front tires) and assist in stabilized steering and preventing front wheel lock-up on slippery surfaces (non-ABS systems). The first and obvious caution in snow is - slow down, drive for conditions, both road surface and traffic conditions. In dry snow situations, visibility is usually a challenge. It could be snowing (20-25 degress F) and the road is still basically dry - the snow is blowing-off the road by passing vehicles thus creating a restricted visibility situation. These conditions can quickly turn to ice - snow turns to water from heat of tires, then freezes due to below freezing road temperatures. Snow can usually be negotiated by being cautious, allow extra room, stayed informed as to road condtions by planning ahead. Ice is a different animal. My solution to driving on ice covered roads - park it. Basic drivings skills apply to MH/bus-type vehicles - no sudden moves, think of slow motion, every move gradual where possible. Granted, deflating drive-axle tires slightly might enhance traction a bit, but it is not worth it. When driving conditions improve, you have to re-inflate them (whoops, forgot to do it). Then, on duals, there is the danger of tire rub. If traction is that much of a concern, chain-up. Chaining-up a MH means that the trip you are involved in is absolutely necessary and essential. Again, consider a parking lot unless you are well-versed in wrapping chains on your drives. Is there sufficient wheel-well clearance to avoid body damage? Visibility restrictions are so very important - yours and the other motorists. Maintain w/shield wipers, mirrors kept as clean and uncluttered as possible, efficient defrosters, headlights, rear lights, turn signals and marker lamps kept clean - both the outside and inside of the lenses. I have a rule, like many of us do, "wipers on - lights on." This helps other drivers see you when their windshield and mirror are cover with moisture and/or dirt. I also apply this rule on two-lane roads - surprising how many people do not see a truck, bus or motorhome in daylight - particularly when they (the oncoming motorist) are passing on a two lane road. Lights on. In fact many states (Arizona) have made it a state law for all vehicles, on two lane roads, to turn on headlights. Keep in mind crosswinds on slippery roads - there's a lot of square feet of coach siding catching that wind - dry roads as well. Really, all comes down to common sense and safe driving practices. When it is snowing, if it's in the forecast or has already dumped, allow lots of time. I can remember many times being in situations where to roads are passable but traffic is backed-up for miles because of accidents. I mentioned the advantages of getting some weight on the front-end (pushers), don't forget that weight comes into play when trying to stop - especially on snow-covered and wet roads - trade offs. Sorry, didn't mean to rattle on. Truth-be-known - I usually lay-off for the winter months to avoid these elements although I occasionally get to see if I take my own advice. The higher elevations west of the Rockies can bring snow at the wink of an eye. Hope to hear from those on the forum who do get to drive in snow conditions. Regards, Joe (Pappy) Hagan St. George, UT Wannabe --- In WanderlodgeForum@yahoogroups.com, erniecarpet@... wrote: > > Pappy- your expertise in driving busses can help us all. If you get a chance > tell me how you drive in snow- pros and cons. Thanks, > > Ernie Ekberg > 83 PT40 > Livingston, Montana maybe having to drive in snow going home in Dec to > Texas > > > > [Non-text portions of this message have been removed] > |
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09-19-2006, 20:21
Post: #17
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New Bird
Thanks Pappy. When I leave here in Montana, will not have a clock to punch.
All my fuel tanks and water will be full, just in case I have to park it for a while. Ernie Ekberg 83 PT40 Livingston, Montana- going to install some Pex plumbing tubing this weekend. [Non-text portions of this message have been removed] |
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01-17-2008, 11:47
Post: #18
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New Bird
I think CCW has hit the nail on the head. I feel it is beautiful
(this coming from someone with a purple coach and a new Edsel). If I had a spare mil, I would be ordering it tomorrow. My wife wants different exterior colors though! Macy, would you take a low mileage Edsel in trade. Steve Gureasko 90WBWL40 Jus Chillin Ponchatoula, La. on the road to Qsite |
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01-17-2008, 16:07
Post: #19
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New Bird
I was doing some Factory warranty work when I was out on the road and that
was on a M 380. While repairing a broken ground and replacing a pneumatic valve that was defective. A couple drove by and stopped and said " That is a beautiful Motor Home! What is it?" It was explained that it was a Bluebird Wanderlodge then the couple said, "we thought so but was not sure, don't the Wanderlodge's have a railing on top?" Well, it is nice to see that someone finally took note of the Signature trait of the Bluebird Wanderlodge and re installed a resemblance of the age old tradition of the "goat rail" on top of this new addition to the Wanderlodge line. There will be no problem telling a Bird going down the road now or espying one from the road when parked in an RV park. Well done to the crew at CCW Bluebird Wanderlodge division. Please don't forget to include a set of schematics with each Coach. I am looking forward to seeing how you integrated the multiplexing and divided it among the separate systems in the Coach and sort of break out panels were used. Sure would be nice from a diagnostician's point of view to have a touch screen diagnostic program built in that would at least localize any given problem, then isolate the problem to an area. Ah but that would be dreaming of course? To have a 3 hour diagnostic problem taken down to a 30 or 45 minute in and out and the customer is down the road instead of being admired by passersby on the side of it. It will also be nice to compile a lit of the high hitters of down time so the customer can plan for that at some future time and have the knowledge needed to be able to prioritize the preventative maint schedule to minimize the down time, and we as owners are familiar with down time but as a united group is gaining the knowledge to do just that with the older units. Again, kudos to the design team, the interior team, the maintenance team and most of all the team on the floor putting all the parts together and with the age old pride that is expected from the finest in the world. You truly are World Class!! > Safe travels, Ralph and Charolette Fullenwider 84FC35 "Ruff Diamond" Duncan, Oklahoma |
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01-18-2008, 00:28
Post: #20
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New Bird
Ralph,
I did see two hefty alternators, atleast a 200+amp and a 400+ amp for the all electric coach. Bill 88 FC with a 160 amp alternator --- In WanderlodgeForum@yahoogroups.com, "Ralph L. Fullenwider" > > I was doing some Factory warranty work when I was out on the road and that > was on a M 380. While repairing a broken ground and replacing a pneumatic > valve that was defective. A couple drove by and stopped and said " That is > a beautiful Motor Home! What is it?" It was explained that it was a > Bluebird Wanderlodge then the couple said, "we thought so but was not sure, > don't the Wanderlodge's have a railing on top?" > > Well, it is nice to see that someone finally took note of the Signature > trait of the Bluebird Wanderlodge and re installed a resemblance of the age > old tradition of the "goat rail" on top of this new addition to the > Wanderlodge line. There will be no problem telling a Bird going down the > road now or espying one from the road when parked in an RV park. > > Well done to the crew at CCW Bluebird Wanderlodge division. Please don't > forget to include a set of schematics with each Coach. I am looking forward > to seeing how you integrated the multiplexing and divided it among the > separate systems in the Coach and sort of break out panels were used. Sure > would be nice from a diagnostician's point of view to have a touch screen > diagnostic program built in that would at least localize any given problem, > then isolate the problem to an area. Ah but that would be dreaming of > course? To have a 3 hour diagnostic problem taken down to a 30 or 45 minute > in and out and the customer is down the road instead of being admired by > passersby on the side of it. > > It will also be nice to compile a lit of the high hitters of down time so > the customer can plan for that at some future time and have the knowledge > needed to be able to prioritize the preventative maint schedule to minimize > the down time, and we as owners are familiar with down time but as a united > group is gaining the knowledge to do just that with the older units. > > Again, kudos to the design team, the interior team, the maintenance team > and most of all the team on the floor putting all the parts together and > with the age old pride that is expected from the finest in the world. You > truly are World Class!! > > > > > Safe travels, > > Ralph and Charolette Fullenwider > 84FC35 "Ruff Diamond" > Duncan, Oklahoma > |
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