'86 PT38

[krminyl@...]

Steve,

I can't think of anything in particular to watch out for on a
1986...basically, the same things as on all other BB's of this age. It's nice
to have the
maintenance records, all "Blue Box" contents (owner's manual, accessories
documentation, etc).

You should be prepared to bring all systems up to date, and expect to spend
money on that. Fluid changes (oil, coolant, trans), air dryer, alignment,
tires (on a PT, there's 8 tires at about $400 each) and tires older than 6 or so
years should be replaced regardless of how good they look, and any interior
improvements you might want to make...remember it's an 80's coach, with
interior styling in that era.

The coach's generator (Kohler/Yanmar) should be checked, and it's hours
consistent with the mileage shown on the BB. Expect to perform routine
maintenance on the genset as well.

If you are buying from a dealer, try to negotiate with them to have all this
stuff done before you pick it up, and make sure that they really do it.
When I bought mine, they said it was done, but I later found out that all they
did was "check" these things.

I suggest that you find a forum member that is willing to do a "walk
through" or PDI (pre delivery inspection) on any coach you are considering
buying.
Whatever nominal charge they might charge you will be money well spent. Put
out a plea for help once you find the coach...

I like the 8V92 vs the 6V (more HP, towing ability, resale). Nothing wrong
with the 6V (5 speed trans vs the 8V's 4 speed), but maybe it's a guy thing
(HP and torque). I believe that a coach that is used and driven often, not
just sitting around, not driven for a few years, is probably a better buy.
Fresh fuel, (I'd hate to have to replace 300 gallons of old, contaminated
diesel), exercised systems that still work, are all things to look for.

Expect to buy a new refrigerator if it's original, expect the dash air not
to work, expect one or more of the propane heaters not to work, prepare to buy
new batteries (6 6v, and a 12 genset battery) and smart chargers.

Still, these BB's are fun to own, and are truly built like a tank. It would
be hard for me to own anything else.

Let us know if there is anything you might need...the forum is a wealth of
information and without it, I would probably find a new owner for my BB!
Again, I thank all the BB owners for their past help and advice.


Best of luck!

Kevin McKeown
Yorba Linda, CA
1986 38' PT


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