Annual Maintenance / Repair Cost

[Dave Mayo]

In reading these type forums one would get the impression that a
motorhome is constantly broken and being repaired. That is the nature
of this type forum to discuss mechanical issues.

I'm interested in getting an idea of the ballpark annual cost for non-
routine repair for a mid 1990's Wanderlodge. I am also interested in
a ballpark cost of annual routine maintenance.

In planning a budget should one plan on $3,000 per year; $5,000 per
year; $10,000 or more.

Outside of the cost of purchase, depreciation, etc. how rich does
one's blood need to be to afford the maintenance on a Bluebird.
I understand that this will vary based upon the age of the coach and
its condition. I'm just doing research to understand what is required
to be able to own and maintain a Bluebird.

Also, would the maintenance and repair cost between a Bluebird and a
Prevost be similar or would one expect the Prevost to be higher.

I appreciate your input as your knowledge is great.

Thanks.

Dave

[pattypape]

Good Morning,

Since I am the first to wake up in the East , I will try to answer,
This is always a good discussion with various inputs.
I would also check MPG, some have suggested under 5 others up to
10MPG, depending on Model, engine and total weight.

I would guess at $5K per year for the next four years, depending on
condition,
this is maintenance, some up-grades, and things that need fixed
before the first long trips. Every desire does not need to be
fullfilled in the first year. This also assumes the drive train does
not need major repairs.

Bill 88 FC


--- In WanderlodgeForum@yahoogroups.com, "Dave Mayo"
wrote:
>
> In reading these type forums one would get the impression that a
> motorhome is constantly broken and being repaired. That is the
nature
> of this type forum to discuss mechanical issues.
>
> I'm interested in getting an idea of the ballpark annual cost for
non-
> routine repair for a mid 1990's Wanderlodge. I am also interested
in
> a ballpark cost of annual routine maintenance.
>
> In planning a budget should one plan on $3,000 per year; $5,000 per
> year; $10,000 or more.
>
> Outside of the cost of purchase, depreciation, etc. how rich does
> one's blood need to be to afford the maintenance on a Bluebird.
> I understand that this will vary based upon the age of the coach
and
> its condition. I'm just doing research to understand what is
required
> to be able to own and maintain a Bluebird.
>
> Also, would the maintenance and repair cost between a Bluebird and
a
> Prevost be similar or would one expect the Prevost to be higher.
>
> I appreciate your input as your knowledge is great.
>
> Thanks.
>
> Dave
>

[Leroy Eckert]

It is difficult to answer your question exactly. Non routine is difficult to classify also. I purchased a very well maintained coach 4 years ago from a knowledgeable owner who now owns a Prevost. Excluding elective upgrades (about $12K) which I have performed on my coach to make it better and more to my personal taste, follows is what I have done in those 4 years. I performed all the labor except as indicated. 8 new tires-by others-routine every 5-7 years Engine water pump-by others-non routine Annual fuel filter service Annual oil change Rebuilt Thomas air pump-air operated toilet-non routine. Depending on use 5 years is good Change Anit-freeze in engine and genset Service genset 8 times-every 100 hours Touch up paint as required to keep bus top notch Repair Kool-O-Matic fan-non routine Change dump paddles Replace Genset cooling fan and motor-non routine Replace front step mercury switches-non routine Reupholster couch, dinette and head board-non routine Replace two 160amp alternators-by others-non routine Light bulbs as needed Wax coach and polish wheels twice annually Replace 2 awning springs-non routine Annual Webasto service Clean Cadet toe heaters New gas grill outside-non routine Repair fresh water pump-change belt every two years Replace shore water pressure regulator-non routine Rework some TV cables-non routine Replace EL panel inverters-non routine Replace rear camera and monitor-add right side camera-non routine Replace two gas struts on bay doors Replace oil pressure sending unit Replace overtemp sensor and temp sender on genset Replace batteries with sealed versions-non routine- should last 5-7 years Convert chassis a/c to 134a-non routine Replace drive belts Water to air connection modification-non routine All of the foregoing amounts to just over 9K in 4 years or about $200 per month on average. Everything on my coach works today. Assuming one does not have a engine or tranny blow the bus is relatively inexpensive for the enjoyment gained. I used to spend $200 a week eating and drinking at the Cannery in Newport Beach. The more work you do yourself, the less it costs. If you have the service performed by others, the cost might be double what I have spent, don't know. There is always something to pick at if you want the bus to be top notch. I call it preventative maintenance hoping that my knit picking will help prevent a major incident, and hence defend against a really big bill. As far as the Prevost, my friend wants to sell his and return to Blue Bird. Leroy Eckert 1990 WB-40 Smoke N Mirrors Dahlonega, GA Royale Conversion. --- On Wed, 11/19/08, Dave Mayo wrote: From: Dave Mayo Subject: [WanderlodgeForum] Annual Maintenance / Repair Cost To: WanderlodgeForum@yahoogroups.com Date: Wednesday, November 19, 2008, 9:21 PM In reading these type forums one would get the impression that a motorhome is constantly broken and being repaired. That is the nature of this type forum to discuss mechanical issues. I'm interested in getting an idea of the ballpark annual cost for non- routine repair for a mid 1990's Wanderlodge. I am also interested in a ballpark cost of annual routine maintenance. In planning a budget should one plan on $3,000 per year; $5,000 per year; $10,000 or more. Outside of the cost of purchase, depreciation, etc. how rich does one's blood need to be to afford the maintenance on a Bluebird. I understand that this will vary based upon the age of the coach and its condition. I'm just doing research to understand what is required to be able to own and maintain a Bluebird. Also, would the maintenance and repair cost between a Bluebird and a Prevost be similar or would one expect the Prevost to be higher. I appreciate your input as your knowledge is great. Thanks. Dave

[Dorn Hetzel]

I spent $18,000 to buy my 77FC35, and then $7000 in repairs getting it
shipshape for the road (mostly).

I could have spent less if I had more time to fool with things myself,
or taken it someplace less
reputable, but I took it to Coachcraft in Columbus because it was
close. The most expensive repair, about
half the money, was chasing down an electrical fault that kept the
rear turn signals from working. Perhaps
they piled on the labor a bit, but the problem got fixed.

The entire drive train, on the other hand, has been an absolute dream.
The CAT 3208 starts with no
complaints at the first turn of the key in any weather, without even
using the block heater. Ok, I live
in Georgia, so I haven't started it below 15f or so, but, still,
pretty decent for a 31 year old engine. She
has never given me even one second of trouble running down the road.

Regards,

Dorn Hetzel
77FC35
Hogansville, GA

On Wed, Nov 19, 2008 at 9:21 PM, Dave Mayo wrote:
> In reading these type forums one would get the impression that a
> motorhome is constantly broken and being repaired. That is the nature
> of this type forum to discuss mechanical issues.
>
> I'm interested in getting an idea of the ballpark annual cost for non-
> routine repair for a mid 1990's Wanderlodge. I am also interested in
> a ballpark cost of annual routine maintenance.
>
> In planning a budget should one plan on $3,000 per year; $5,000 per
> year; $10,000 or more.
>
> Outside of the cost of purchase, depreciation, etc. how rich does
> one's blood need to be to afford the maintenance on a Bluebird.
> I understand that this will vary based upon the age of the coach and
> its condition. I'm just doing research to understand what is required
> to be able to own and maintain a Bluebird.
>
> Also, would the maintenance and repair cost between a Bluebird and a
> Prevost be similar or would one expect the Prevost to be higher.
>
> I appreciate your input as your knowledge is great.
>
> Thanks.
>
> Dave
>
>
>

[Wallace Craig]

Dave, the annual cost is principally fuel, insurance and camping fees. Every 7-8 years a new set of tires will be needed, whether or not milage worn, they just give up after that period of time. Since maintenance problems do occur, I would probably set aside $1000 to 1500 ayear, however this is clearly a function of the conditionn of the coach on purchase. The short answer is; there is no real answer. Wallace Craig 95 WLWB 42 Azle, Texas --- On Wed, 11/19/08, Dave Mayo wrote: From: Dave Mayo Subject: [WanderlodgeForum] Annual Maintenance / Repair Cost To: WanderlodgeForum@yahoogroups.com Date: Wednesday, November 19, 2008, 8:21 PM In reading these type forums one would get the impression that a motorhome is constantly broken and being repaired. That is the nature of this type forum to discuss mechanical issues. I'm interested in getting an idea of the ballpark annual cost for non- routine repair for a mid 1990's Wanderlodge. I am also interested in a ballpark cost of annual routine maintenance. In planning a budget should one plan on $3,000 per year; $5,000 per year; $10,000 or more. Outside of the cost of purchase, depreciation, etc. how rich does one's blood need to be to afford the maintenance on a Bluebird. I understand that this will vary based upon the age of the coach and its condition. I'm just doing research to understand what is required to be able to own and maintain a Bluebird. Also, would the maintenance and repair cost between a Bluebird and a Prevost be similar or would one expect the Prevost to be higher. I appreciate your input as your knowledge is great. Thanks. Dave ------------------------------------ Yahoo! Groups Links <*> To visit your group on the web, go to: http://groups.yahoo.com/group/WanderlodgeForum/ <*> Your email settings: Individual Email | Traditional <*> To change settings online go to: http://groups.yahoo.com/group/WanderlodgeForum/join (Yahoo! ID required) <*> To change settings via email: mailto:WanderlodgeForum-digest@yahoogroups.com mailto:WanderlodgeForum-fullfeatured@yahoogroups.com <*> To unsubscribe from this group, send an email to: WanderlodgeForum-unsubscribe@yahoogroups.com <*> Your use of Yahoo! Groups is subject to: http://docs.yahoo.com/info/terms/

[Kurt Horvath]

Dave,

The Wanderlodge is a complex machine.

It has all the systems you would find in a home and a heavy vehicle
some have off the shelf products others have parts unique to that
particular Coach.

In my experience I have avg. about $1100.00 a month in maintaining my
coach over 3 years.

When I first bought my coach I meet an older gentleman who was on his
5th Prevost and had owned a few Birds back in the 80's. He proclaimed
he had averaged $15,000.00 maintenance cost for years. Regardless of
use and general condition. I tend to go with that generality

I try to keep her fixed and I do maintenance and fix stuff that may
fail but is currently functional. My reasoning is threefold. I don't
want to break down on the road, Sometimes it's cheaper to fix it when
your working in an inaccessible place, and on these coaches those
places are many, and third, to maintain the value of my coach.

In three years I have replaced a broken cam in the motor at $5000.00
and rocker switches at $0.99

Kurt Horvath
95 PT 42
10AV


--- In WanderlodgeForum@yahoogroups.com, "pattypape"
wrote:
>
> Good Morning,
>
> Since I am the first to wake up in the East , I will try to answer,
> This is always a good discussion with various inputs.
> I would also check MPG, some have suggested under 5 others up to
> 10MPG, depending on Model, engine and total weight.
>
> I would guess at $5K per year for the next four years, depending on
> condition,
> this is maintenance, some up-grades, and things that need fixed
> before the first long trips. Every desire does not need to be
> fullfilled in the first year. This also assumes the drive train
does
> not need major repairs.
>
> Bill 88 FC
>
>
> --- In WanderlodgeForum@yahoogroups.com, "Dave Mayo"
> wrote:
> >
> > In reading these type forums one would get the impression that a
> > motorhome is constantly broken and being repaired. That is the
> nature
> > of this type forum to discuss mechanical issues.
> >
> > I'm interested in getting an idea of the ballpark annual cost for
> non-
> > routine repair for a mid 1990's Wanderlodge. I am also interested
> in
> > a ballpark cost of annual routine maintenance.
> >
> > In planning a budget should one plan on $3,000 per year; $5,000
per
> > year; $10,000 or more.
> >
> > Outside of the cost of purchase, depreciation, etc. how rich does
> > one's blood need to be to afford the maintenance on a Bluebird.
> > I understand that this will vary based upon the age of the coach
> and
> > its condition. I'm just doing research to understand what is
> required
> > to be able to own and maintain a Bluebird.
> >
> > Also, would the maintenance and repair cost between a Bluebird
and
> a
> > Prevost be similar or would one expect the Prevost to be higher.
> >
> > I appreciate your input as your knowledge is great.
> >
> > Thanks.
> >
> > Dave
> >
>

[Pete Masterson]

I'd say the $3000 figure will more than cover the routine annual
maintenance (without tires). I've paid a shop to perform oil changes
and other lubrication and filter replacement. The typical service
bill has been about $1000 to $1500, depending on the variety of items
needing attention. This basic oil-change and lubrication service (and
fixing any minor running gear gripes) is done annually, usually in
the spring before I do any lengthy trips. I'm probably facing a brake
lining change sometime soon -- and I'll call around for estimates for
that.

The repair/upgrade situation is harder. If you find a cream puff that
you are perfectly happy with in it's current condition, you might
spend relatively little on cosmetic repairs or upgrades. In my case,
at the time of purchase, I budgeted another $20,000 for "unexpected"
repairs and upgrades. -- In the end, it wasn't a bad estimate but I
haven't totaled things up recently to see where I stand.

"Unexpected repairs" included replacing the radiator core; aligning
the wheels and replacing a bent and broken Blue Ox True Center
steering device; replacing the house batteries that had been abused
while the bus was in various dealers hands for 7 months before I
bought it; and repairing a failed upper shock-mount on the street
side front axle. I have a misbehaving inverter that I'll have to
remove and (more fully) troubleshoot -- I'm assuming that I'll
probably have to replace it (I'll most probably get a remanufactured
unit).

A semi-unexpected repair was the replacement of the muffler.

Upgrades include remodeling the forward salon to a more "office like"
arrangement (with desk and filing cabinets) to accommodate my
business while on the road. Replacing the carpet (and kitchen tile)
with bamboo wood flooring. Recovering some of the fabric on the
window valances and recovering the worn wall paper on the walls.

There are also a not unusual handful of minor glitches (bad switch
here, vent fan motor there) that require dealing with from time to
time. Most of these aren't dreadfully expensive, but some leeway in
the maintenance budget is required to cover these items.

Every Wanderlodge has its share of electrical glitches to
troubleshoot. (I suspect that this is the case with most any older RV
-- but WLs have more systems, hence more that might go wrong.) I
believe this is inherent in the wire-run length of the 12 VCD
systems. The 120 VAC systems don't seem to ever cause much trouble
(other than somewhat predictable issues with inverters and/or
transfer switches). Also, as the vehicle ages, various appliances
(especially TVs and Microwaves) may need upgrade/replacement -- but
those occur on much the same schedule as your home appliances.

I doubt that a Prevost would be much different in its overall
reliability. Many carry very similar appliances as Wanderlodges --
and the physics that cause 12 VDC to be unreliable in a 40' vehicle
applies equally to any 40' bus.

Keep in mind that you can do many of the maintenance things for
yourself. Often it's a matter of time vs. money. If you have the
time, you can DIY -- if you prefer to spend the money, then it will
cost more. I do the basic oil-change and lube job with a shop because
I really have no desire to deal with nearly 10 gallons of oil drained
from the engine. I'd rather have a shop take care if it. I have done
my own oil changes for the generator -- as it only takes a couple of
gallons of oil -- well within my capability of handling. I also note
that I don't have a good place to work on my coach (I park it on the
street in front of my house). That's a factor in what I decide to do
for my self vs. what I pay others to do.

Pete Masterson
'95 Blue Bird Wanderlodge WBDA 42
aeonix1@...
On the road at Lockhart, TX



On Nov 19, 2008, at 8:21 PM, Dave Mayo wrote:

> In reading these type forums one would get the impression that a
> motorhome is constantly broken and being repaired. That is the nature
> of this type forum to discuss mechanical issues.
>
> I'm interested in getting an idea of the ballpark annual cost for non-
> routine repair for a mid 1990's Wanderlodge. I am also interested in
> a ballpark cost of annual routine maintenance.
>
> In planning a budget should one plan on $3,000 per year; $5,000 per
> year; $10,000 or more.
>
> Outside of the cost of purchase, depreciation, etc. how rich does
> one's blood need to be to afford the maintenance on a Bluebird.
> I understand that this will vary based upon the age of the coach and
> its condition. I'm just doing research to understand what is required
> to be able to own and maintain a Bluebird.
>
> Also, would the maintenance and repair cost between a Bluebird and a
> Prevost be similar or would one expect the Prevost to be higher.
>

[Ron Thompson]

Pete, Curious how much it costs you to have the oil changed in your series 60? And do you also have the generator changed at the same time? I haven't changed my oil so far since I have had this RV since I have only put about 1200 miles on it and the oil had been changed at the dealers when I bought it. Appreciate your answer, since I need to probably change my oil just due to its age in the motors. I have been so busy with other things that I have not made any trips at all to speak of. Just acouple of 400 mile round trippers. Maybe three of them. Ron Thompson -Waller, Tx. 1995 WLWB 42' (cockyfox@...) --- On Thu, 11/20/08, Pete Masterson wrote: From: Pete Masterson Subject: Re: [WanderlodgeForum] Annual Maintenance / Repair Cost To: WanderlodgeForum@yahoogroups.com Date: Thursday, November 20, 2008, 11:08 AM I'd say the $3000 figure will more than cover the routine annual maintenance (without tires). I've paid a shop to perform oil changes and other lubrication and filter replacement. The typical service bill has been about $1000 to $1500, depending on the variety of items needing attention. This basic oil-change and lubrication service (and fixing any minor running gear gripes) is done annually, usually in the spring before I do any lengthy trips. I'm probably facing a brake lining change sometime soon -- and I'll call around for estimates for that. The repair/upgrade situation is harder. If you find a cream puff that you are perfectly happy with in it's current condition, you might spend relatively little on cosmetic repairs or upgrades. In my case, at the time of purchase, I budgeted another $20,000 for "unexpected" repairs and upgrades. -- In the end, it wasn't a bad estimate but I haven't totaled things up recently to see where I stand. "Unexpected repairs" included replacing the radiator core; aligning the wheels and replacing a bent and broken Blue Ox True Center steering device; replacing the house batteries that had been abused while the bus was in various dealers hands for 7 months before I bought it; and repairing a failed upper shock-mount on the street side front axle. I have a misbehaving inverter that I'll have to remove and (more fully) troubleshoot -- I'm assuming that I'll probably have to replace it (I'll most probably get a remanufactured unit). A semi-unexpected repair was the replacement of the muffler. Upgrades include remodeling the forward salon to a more "office like" arrangement (with desk and filing cabinets) to accommodate my business while on the road. Replacing the carpet (and kitchen tile) with bamboo wood flooring. Recovering some of the fabric on the window valances and recovering the worn wall paper on the walls. There are also a not unusual handful of minor glitches (bad switch here, vent fan motor there) that require dealing with from time to time. Most of these aren't dreadfully expensive, but some leeway in the maintenance budget is required to cover these items. Every Wanderlodge has its share of electrical glitches to troubleshoot. (I suspect that this is the case with most any older RV -- but WLs have more systems, hence more that might go wrong.) I believe this is inherent in the wire-run length of the 12 VCD systems. The 120 VAC systems don't seem to ever cause much trouble (other than somewhat predictable issues with inverters and/or transfer switches). Also, as the vehicle ages, various appliances (especially TVs and Microwaves) may need upgrade/replacement -- but those occur on much the same schedule as your home appliances. I doubt that a Prevost would be much different in its overall reliability. Many carry very similar appliances as Wanderlodges -- and the physics that cause 12 VDC to be unreliable in a 40' vehicle applies equally to any 40' bus. Keep in mind that you can do many of the maintenance things for yourself. Often it's a matter of time vs. money. If you have the time, you can DIY -- if you prefer to spend the money, then it will cost more. I do the basic oil-change and lube job with a shop because I really have no desire to deal with nearly 10 gallons of oil drained from the engine. I'd rather have a shop take care if it. I have done my own oil changes for the generator -- as it only takes a couple of gallons of oil -- well within my capability of handling. I also note that I don't have a good place to work on my coach (I park it on the street in front of my house). That's a factor in what I decide to do for my self vs. what I pay others to do. Pete Masterson '95 Blue Bird Wanderlodge WBDA 42 "aeonix1%40mac.com" On the road at Lockhart, TX On Nov 19, 2008, at 8:21 PM, Dave Mayo wrote: > In reading these type forums one would get the impression that a > motorhome is constantly broken and being repaired. That is the nature > of this type forum to discuss mechanical issues. > > I'm interested in getting an idea of the ballpark annual cost for non- > routine repair for a mid 1990's Wanderlodge. I am also interested in > a ballpark cost of annual routine maintenance. > > In planning a budget should one plan on $3,000 per year; $5,000 per > year; $10,000 or more. > > Outside of the cost of purchase, depreciation, etc. how rich does > one's blood need to be to afford the maintenance on a Bluebird. > I understand that this will vary based upon the age of the coach and > its condition. I'm just doing research to understand what is required > to be able to own and maintain a Bluebird. > > Also, would the maintenance and repair cost between a Bluebird and a > Prevost be similar or would one expect the Prevost to be higher. >

[Pete Masterson]

The Series 60 takes approximately 40 quarts (10 gallons) of oil with a change and filter replacement. The oil to use is one made for heavy duty diesel trucks, 10-40 wt. Delo (Chevron) or Rotella (Shell) are suitable.  It should be done annually or every 10,000 miles (or so) whichever comes first. There are also some synthetic alternatives, but I haven't used them. There is possibly a slight MPG increase obtainable with a synthetic -- but the change frequency remains the same (so it costs more).

I've never _just_ had the oil changed when I've taken my coach into a heavy duty truck/bus/RV shop, so it's hard to separate out the cost of just the oil changed. I also had the transmission fluid changed and the transmission fluid filters replaced during the service. That's somewhat more labor intensive than just an oil change. (And after I had it done this year, I realized I'd had it done the previous year -- and it's actually a 3-year cycle, so I wasted some money on that.) The transmission should use "TranSynd" synthetic transmission fluid (of the appropriate weight for your transmission). Since the stuff is used for 3 years, the synthetic makes good sense. 

I've also asked the service provider to lubricate all chassis fittings (that they can find), check and renew all fluids, etc. So, I've paid for that labor as well. The service I had done at a local shop was $832 (SF Bay Area labor rates) that included the oil change, transmission change, and other lube and services.

The next "regular" service was done at CCW in Riverside ...  but there was a long list of minor to not-so-minor gripes to attend to and that bill exceeded $5000 -- but the muffler (with installation) for about $1200 and the repair of a broken shock mount (over $1000) was included on that bill. I'd guess the lube and oil stuff was about $1200 of the total bill. I also paid to have the bottom rear 1/3 of the bus and engine steam cleaned in that bill (it makes it easier to work on).

===============================================

Pete Masterson, Author of

Book Design and Production: A Guide for Authors and Publishers

"Aeonix1@Mac.com"

Aeonix Publishing Group    http://www.aeonix.com

===============================================

On Nov 20, 2008, at 12:04 PM, Ron Thompson wrote:

 Pete, Curious how much it costs you to have the oil  changed in your series 60?   And do you also have the generator changed at the same time? I haven't changed my oil so far since I have had this RV since I have only put about 1200 miles on it and the oil had been changed at the dealers when I bought it. Appreciate your answer, since I need to probably change my oil just due to its age in the motors.  I have been so busy with other things that I have not made any trips at all to speak of.  Just acouple of 400 mile round trippers.  Maybe three of them.  Ron Thompson -Waller, Tx. 1995 WLWB 42' ("cockyfox@sbcglobal.net") --- On Thu, 11/20/08, Pete Masterson <"aeonix1@mac.com"> wrote: From: Pete Masterson <"aeonix1@mac.com"> Subject: Re: [WanderlodgeForum] Annual Maintenance / Repair Cost To: "WanderlodgeForum@yahoogroups.com" Date: Thursday, November 20, 2008, 11:08 AM I'd say the $3000 figure will more than cover the routine annual  maintenance (without tires). I've paid a shop to perform oil changes  and other lubrication and filter replacement. The typical service  bill has been about $1000 to $1500, depending on the variety of items  needing attention. This basic oil-change and lubrication service (and  fixing any minor running gear gripes) is done annually, usually in  the spring before I do any lengthy trips. I'm probably facing a brake  lining change sometime soon -- and I'll call around for estimates for  that. The repair/upgrade situation is harder. If you find a cream puff that  you are perfectly happy with in it's current condition, you might  spend relatively little on cosmetic repairs or upgrades. In my case,  at the time of purchase, I budgeted another $20,000 for "unexpected"  repairs and upgrades. -- In the end, it wasn't a bad estimate but I  haven't totaled things up recently to see where I stand. "Unexpected repairs" included replacing the radiator core; aligning  the wheels and replacing a bent and broken Blue Ox True Center  steering device; replacing the house batteries that had been abused  while the bus was in various dealers hands for 7 months before I  bought it; and repairing a failed upper shock-mount on the street  side front axle. I have a misbehaving inverter that I'll have to  remove and (more fully) troubleshoot -- I'm assuming that I'll  probably have to replace it (I'll most probably get a remanufactured  unit). A semi-unexpected repair was the replacement of the muffler. Upgrades include remodeling the forward salon to a more "office like"  arrangement (with desk and filing cabinets) to accommodate my  business while on the road. Replacing the carpet (and kitchen tile)  with bamboo wood flooring. Recovering some of the fabric on the  window valances and recovering the worn wall paper on the walls. There are also a not unusual handful of minor glitches (bad switch  here, vent fan motor there) that require dealing with from time to  time. Most of these aren't dreadfully expensive, but some leeway in  the maintenance budget is required to cover these items. Every Wanderlodge has its share of electrical glitches to  troubleshoot. (I suspect that this is the case with most any older RV  -- but WLs have more systems, hence more that might go wrong.) I  believe this is inherent in the wire-run length of the 12 VCD  systems. The 120 VAC systems don't seem to ever cause much trouble  (other than somewhat predictable issues with inverters and/or  transfer switches). Also, as the vehicle ages, various appliances  (especially TVs and Microwaves) may need upgrade/replacement -- but  those occur on much the same schedule as your home appliances. I doubt that a Prevost would be much different in its overall  reliability. Many carry very similar appliances as Wanderlodges --  and the physics that cause 12 VDC to be unreliable in a 40' vehicle  applies equally to any 40' bus. Keep in mind that you can do many of the maintenance things for  yourself. Often it's a matter of time vs. money. If you have the  time, you can DIY -- if you prefer to spend the money, then it will  cost more. I do the basic oil-change and lube job with a shop because  I really have no desire to deal with nearly 10 gallons of oil drained  from the engine. I'd rather have a shop take care if it. I have done  my own oil changes for the generator -- as it only takes a couple of  gallons of oil -- well within my capability of handling. I also note  that I don't have a good place to work on my coach (I park it on the  street in front of my house). That's a factor in what I decide to do  for my self vs. what I pay others to do. Pete Masterson '95 Blue Bird Wanderlodge WBDA 42 "aeonix1%40mac.com" On the road at Lockhart, TX On Nov 19, 2008, at 8:21 PM, Dave Mayo wrote: > In reading these type forums one would get the impression that a > motorhome is constantly broken and being repaired. That is the nature > of this type forum to discuss mechanical issues. > > I'm interested in getting an idea of the ballpark annual cost for non- > routine repair for a mid 1990's Wanderlodge. I am also interested in > a ballpark cost of annual routine maintenance. > > In planning a budget should one plan on $3,000 per year; $5,000 per > year; $10,000 or more. > > Outside of the cost of purchase, depreciation, etc. how rich does > one's blood need to be to afford the maintenance on a Bluebird. > I understand that this will vary based upon the age of the coach and > its condition. I'm just doing research to understand what is required > to be able to own and maintain a Bluebird. > > Also, would the maintenance and repair cost between a Bluebird and a > Prevost be similar or would one expect the Prevost to be higher. >

[Ron Thompson]

Thanks Pete thats a pretty good run down. Rates might be a little less around here (Houston) but I would not count on it. Thanks again for your input. Ron Thompson -Waller, Tx. 1995 WLWB 42' (cockyfox@...) --- On Thu, 11/20/08, Pete Masterson wrote: From: Pete Masterson Subject: Re: [WanderlodgeForum] Annual Maintenance / Repair Cost To: WanderlodgeForum@yahoogroups.com Date: Thursday, November 20, 2008, 1:26 PM The Series 60 takes approximately 40 quarts (10 gallons) of oil with a change and filter replacement. The oil to use is one made for heavy duty diesel trucks, 10-40 wt. Delo (Chevron) or Rotella (Shell) are suitable. It should be done annually or every 10,000 miles (or so) whichever comes first. There are also some synthetic alternatives, but I haven't used them. There is possibly a slight MPG increase obtainable with a synthetic -- but the change frequency remains the same (so it costs more). I've never _just_ had the oil changed when I've taken my coach into a heavy duty truck/bus/RV shop, so it's hard to separate out the cost of just the oil changed. I also had the transmission fluid changed and the transmission fluid filters replaced during the service. That's somewhat more labor intensive than just an oil change. (And after I had it done this year, I realized I'd had it done the previous year -- and it's actually a 3-year cycle, so I wasted some money on that.) The transmission should use "TranSynd" synthetic transmission fluid (of the appropriate weight for your transmission) . Since the stuff is used for 3 years, the synthetic makes good sense. I've also asked the service provider tolubricateall chassis fittings (that they can find), check and renew all fluids, etc. So, I've paid for that labor as well. The service I had done at a local shop was $832 (SF Bay Area labor rates) that included the oil change, transmission change, and other lube and services. The next "regular" service was done at CCW in Riverside ... but there was a long list of minor to not-so-minor gripes to attend to and that bill exceeded $5000 -- but the muffler (with installation) for about $1200 and the repair of a broken shock mount (over $1000) was included on that bill. I'd guess the lube and oil stuff was about $1200 of the total bill. I also paid to have the bottom rear 1/3 of the bus and engine steam cleaned in that bill (it makes it easier to work on). ============ ========= ========= ========= ======== Pete Masterson, Author of Book Design and Production: A Guide for Authors and Publishers "Aeonix1@Mac.com" Aeonix Publishing Group http://www.aeonix. com ============ ========= ========= ========= ======== On Nov 20, 2008, at 12:04 PM, Ron Thompson wrote: Pete, Curious how much it costs you to have the oil changed in your series 60? And do you also have the generator changed at the same time? I haven't changed my oil so far since I have had this RV since I have only put about 1200 miles on it and the oil had been changed at the dealers when I bought it. Appreciate your answer, since I need to probably change my oil just due to its age in the motors. I have been so busy with other things that I have not made any trips at all to speak of. Just acouple of 400 mile round trippers. Maybe three of them. Ron Thompson -Waller, Tx. 1995 WLWB 42' ("cockyfox@sbcglobal.net") --- OnThu, 11/20/08, Pete Masterson<"aeonix1@mac.com">wrote: From: Pete Masterson <"aeonix1@mac.com"> Subject: Re: [WanderlodgeForum] Annual Maintenance / Repair Cost To: "WanderlodgeForum@yahoogroups.com" Date: Thursday, November 20, 2008, 11:08 AM I'd say the $3000 figure will more than cover the routine annual maintenance (without tires). I've paid a shop to perform oil changes and other lubrication and filter replacement. The typical service bill has been about $1000 to $1500, depending on the variety of items needing attention. This basic oil-change and lubrication service (and fixing any minor running gear gripes) is done annually, usually in the spring before I do any lengthy trips. I'm probably facing a brake lining change sometime soon -- and I'll call around for estimates for that. The repair/upgrade situation is harder. If you find a cream puff that you are perfectly happy with in it's current condition, you might spend relatively little on cosmetic repairs or upgrades. In my case, at the time of purchase, I budgeted another $20,000 for "unexpected" repairs and upgrades. -- In the end, it wasn't a bad estimate but I haven't totaled things up recently to see where I stand. "Unexpected repairs" included replacing the radiator core; aligning the wheels and replacing a bent and broken Blue Ox True Center steering device; replacing the house batteries that had been abused while the bus was in various dealers hands for 7 months before I bought it; and repairing a failed upper shock-mount on the street side front axle. I have a misbehaving inverter that I'll have to remove and (more fully) troubleshoot -- I'm assuming that I'll probably have to replace it (I'll most probably get a remanufactured unit). A semi-unexpected repair was the replacement of the muffler. Upgrades include remodeling the forward salon to a more "office like" arrangement (with desk and filing cabinets) to accommodate my business while on the road. Replacing the carpet (and kitchen tile) with bamboo wood flooring. Recovering some of the fabric on the window valances and recovering the worn wall paper on the walls. There are also a not unusual handful of minor glitches (bad switch here, vent fan motor there) that require dealing with from time to time. Most of these aren't dreadfully expensive, but some leeway in the maintenance budget is required to cover these items. Every Wanderlodge has its share of electrical glitches to troubleshoot. (I suspect that this is the case with most any older RV -- but WLs have more systems, hence more that might go wrong.) I believe this is inherent in the wire-run length of the 12 VCD systems. The 120 VAC systems don't seem to ever cause much trouble (other than somewhat predictable issues with inverters and/or transfer switches). Also, as the vehicle ages, various appliances (especially TVs and Microwaves) may need upgrade/replacement -- but those occur on much the same schedule as your home appliances. I doubt that a Prevost would be much different in its overall reliability. Many carry very similar appliances as Wanderlodges -- and the physics that cause 12 VDC to be unreliable in a 40' vehicle applies equally to any 40' bus. Keep in mind that you can do many of the maintenance things for yourself. Often it's a matter of time vs. money. If you have the time, you can DIY -- if you prefer to spend the money, then it will cost more. I do the basic oil-change and lube job with a shop because I really have no desire to deal with nearly 10 gallons of oil drained from the engine. I'd rather have a shop take care if it. I have done my own oil changes for the generator -- as it only takes a couple of gallons of oil -- well within my capability of handling. I also note that I don't have a good place to work on my coach (I park it on the street in front of my house). That's a factor in what I decide to do for my self vs. what I pay others to do. Pete Masterson '95 Blue Bird Wanderlodge WBDA 42 "aeonix1%40mac.com" On the road at Lockhart, TX On Nov 19, 2008, at 8:21 PM, Dave Mayo wrote: > In reading these type forums one would get the impression that a > motorhome is constantly broken and being repaired. That is the nature > of this type forum to discuss mechanical issues. > > I'm interested in getting an idea of the ballpark annual cost for non- > routine repair for a mid 1990's Wanderlodge. I am also interested in > a ballpark cost of annual routine maintenance. > > In planning a budget should one plan on $3,000 per year; $5,000 per > year; $10,000 or more. > > Outside of the cost of purchase, depreciation, etc. how rich does > one's blood need to be to afford the maintenance on a Bluebird. > I understand that this will vary based upon the age of the coach and > its condition. I'm just doing research to understand what is required > to be able to own and maintain a Bluebird. > > Also, would the maintenance and repair cost between a Bluebird and a > Prevost be similar or would one expect the Prevost to be higher. >