changing belts and hoses

[pattypape]

Dorn,

Swing radiators were popular in the early & mid 80's,
many others were fabricated by owners and
few Bird Dealers would make the change for about $1000.00,
In the later 87,88,89 FC's the rad would swing to about 45 degrees,
a really tight place to work and the coolant still
had to be drained as the top hose must be disconnected.
So I am in the minority with this opinion,
but just remove the radiator and have it tested,
it is only 8 more bolts. Every thing else is just screws,
nuts, bolts and hose clamps. Better to put time
and $$$ into the needed parts.

Bill's 2 cents 88 FC Michigan




--- In WanderlodgeForum@yahoogroups.com, Dorn Hetzel wrote:
>
> Anyone out there who's done this to their 70's FC and would be willing to
> advise ?
>
> On Tue, Mar 31, 2009 at 5:42 PM, pattypape wrote:
>
> > Unless you have prior repair records,
> > It may be wise to do the job yourself,
> > Include removing the rad and have it flushed and tested,
> > replace all belts, check the idler pulleys, remove the alternator
> > and have it checked at a shop. Replace all questionable hoses including the
> > oil cooler hoses.
> > This is major repair cost at a dealer.
> > If you are going to keep the Bird ,
> > It may be a good idea to learn how to open the front.
> > There are procedures in the files of the forums.
> > Maybe replace the thermostats.
> >
> > Bill 88 FC
> >
> >
> > --- In WanderlodgeForum@yahoogroups.com,
> > Dorn Hetzel wrote:
> > >
> > > It looks like I will need to be replacing some belts on my 77FC35 fairly
> > > soon.
> > >
> > > All are still working, but getting a bit loose.
> > >
> > > Do I understand correctly that getting to the belts on the 77FC35
> > involves
> > > removing the bumper, front panel and radiator ?
> > >
> > > If it's going to be a big job like that, I presume I will want to replace
> > > all belts and any hoses in that area while I have the radiator off.
> > >
> > > Can anyone who has done this task offer me some clues? If I were to pay
> > > someone to do it, can anyone estimate what I should expect it to cost?
> > >
> > > Regards,
> > >
> > > Dorn Hetzel
> > > 77FC35
> > > Hogansville, GA
> > >
> >
> >
> >
>