Annual Maintenance / Repair Cost

[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
>
>
>