FC vs PT re; Repairs and Complexities

[mbulriss]

Tom,

Moving from the 83 PT to the 91 PT was not too bad in terms of
learning curve on the systems. Similar systems with similar
challenges, but newer as you said. Lots of things don't seem to be
where I left them! After eight years with the 83, I pretty much knew
where every switch and load center was without hardly looking. Not
much is the same in that regard. Haven't had time to read the manuals
yet on the 91, so we have searched for some items and felt like
newbies when we found them.

Newer doesn't necessarily always mean better. I will miss the 83's
Digitell (audio diagnostic unit - aka "the little talking man"). So
far, I think the ducted cruise airs on the 83 are more efficient than
the ducted roof top airs on the 91. I liked the big honking steel
chrome bumpers on the 83, versus the fiberglass coated ones on the 91.
In many ways, lots of other system things were much simpler in
design/de-bug on the 83 than the 91.

The one thing about both of the Birds is how solid they are built.
Both of our Birds will most probably outlive me - and I don't intend
to go away soon! Like Ralph mentioned, we were returning from South
Padre Island a year ago and we saw a travel trailer that was totally
indistinguishable as to what it used to be. There was a frame and the
largest other piece was about 2 feet square and 2 inches thick.
Contrast that to one of our members rolled a Bird over last year, down
an incline and into a tree. They walked away. Looking at pictures of
the Bird from the front, you would not really notice that there had
been an accident, until you noticed the windshield they kicked out.
Versus any comparable age SOB, the Birds remind me of the MasterCard
ad - purchase cost: high; operating cost: expensive; comfort and
safety factor: priceless.

I sent you a note via email as requested with contact info to discuss
the purchase related questions.

Mike Bulriss
83 PT40 "Stagecoach" - For Sale
91 PT40 "Texas Minivan"
San Antonio, TX



--- In WanderlodgeForum@yahoogroups.com, "martymc_99"
wrote:
> Mike...the pop of trailer was not serious.
>
> What has been your observation having moved from your FC to the "newer"
> PT? Similar systems and challenges...other than a bit newer?
>
> I actually am not averse to mechanical efforts...just have learned that
> the "learning curve" is painful without direction.
>
> My preference after reading adds for a year is the '91-'95 PTs. Seems
> like the interiors are more "modern" and wife actually likes what they
> look like. One question is determining what they actually sell
> for...many are priced high and just sit there.
>
> Maybe you could share (by e-mail) your buying experience vs pricing in
> the various adds? Also, where did you find your PT?
>
> Thanks for your input...those BB's are sure unique!...Tom Rootness in
> Northern Minnesota