New to Bluebird

[Dan]

I have an 8v92 in a Bluebird. Unfortunately it is an obsolete engine. There are less and less mechanics who are familiar with them. It is a 2 stroke engine that uses rubber o rings on the cylinders and over time the o rings will fail and an engine rebuild is required. An inframe 8v92 rebuild can cost 20K plus. It uses an engine driven air compressor which is cooled by engine coolant delivered by two hoses. Over time the hoses can become brittle and if not replaced can fail requiring again an engine rebuild...20K plus. Bluebird later went to a Series 60 engine which is a current production engine and familiar to most Detroit mechanics. The 8v92 requires straight 40 weight oil. Some owners do not know this and use a multigrade oil. Detroit specifically warns agains using multigrade in the 8v92 unless it is in extremely cold weather and even then for only a short period of time. I may catch some flak for 8v92 loyalists but I believe everything I said is true.

Dan

88PT38

Jackson, MS

----- Original Message -----

From: "aspenpilot@gmail.com"

To: "WanderlodgeForum@yahoogroups.com"

Sent: Monday, December 27, 2010 11:19 PM

Subject: [WanderlodgeForum] New to Bluebird

I currently have Hawkins that is powered by a 3208T, but am considering a different coach. I've narrowed my search to tow brands, Bluebird and Foretravel. Today, I looked at a 1995, 40' BB powered by a 8V92. The coach could be had for approximately $70,000. As I am not familiar with Detroit, how reliable is this engine? Any things that I need to be on the lookout for on Bluebirds? What kind of mileage would be expected from such a coach? The dealer told me 8 1/2 to 10, , but I find that hard to believe. My Hawkins gets 8mpg towing or solo. Some of the things I found very nice in the BB, were 1) Roof mounted generator. 2) Exhaust on top of coach. 3) The rock solid feeling the coach has while walking around in it. Thanks for all advise.