Tools and Fixit Stuff

[runnerful]

Hi Bill,

Thank you for your very thoughtful reply.

--- In WanderlodgeForum@yahoogroups.com, Wilhelmus Schreurs
wrote:
>
> Ginger;
> I purchased myself a BB last year, and like others have said, be
prepared to spend additional monies to have it right.

Yep. That point has come from several sources.

> I bought mine from Randy Dupree, and some of the costly items that
has to be replaced or repaired had already been done. Things such
as:
> Tires - cost $3000
> Fridge - used to new - $500 - 1800
> Inverter instead of rediline - $1500 - 2500
> Batteries - 4 each - $400

$400 EACH?!!!!
>
> During the past couple of months I have had to do such things as:
> Rear furnace was blowing soot - required a few items $50

Sounds messy.

> Repair leaks to the entry step - time required
> Flourescent lighting - replaced some but now have to buy more
parts figure $50 per lamp

Do you mostly use 12V lamps?

> Items done recently at a mechanic shop, I was helping him, hey

My auto mechanic has a sign:

RATES:
$75.00 per hour
$85.00 if you watch
$95.00 if you help

this was very helpful, some things I will be able to do myself next
time, other things will take back for him to do:
[snip items of repair]

It would be nice to have a mentor. I will definitely shop for
one. :-)

> Also while under the coach, there were wires off from the fuel
tank etc. We inspected it, checked it twice and made another list
of things which has to be done.

Now, "under the coach" is someplace to which I have no interest in
going. It's dark, dangerous and dirty.

> So, what am I trying to say, purchase the best that you can
afford, but pay attention to the major items such as listed above.
Find out what kind of maintenance has been done on the engine,
regular oil changes is almost a must.

I've almost decided that if the present owner doesn't have
maintenance records then that's a deal-breaker.

> This will also determine what kind of tool chest that you will
require on the road. If you have to continue to fix it as you go,
well, have a good tool chest ready.

This would not be my preference. I don't mind stuff needing
tinkering but I want a coach that's reliable that I'm not always
gluing back together in order to get to my destination. For this I
will make sure all recommended PM is done in a timly fashion.

> Also, from experience, don't buy the cheapie tools, does not have
to be the best either though, screwdriver tips break off, wrench
corners will become round, knuckle busters, and you will curse
yourself for buying them.

> I like craftsman tools from Sears, fairly good tool, and exchange
policy for broken tools is the best, take it in and they will
replace, no questions asked, and without a receipt.

Looks like Craftsman get good marks from a lot of folks.

> One last question, where u from?

Toronto, Ont. We're not exactly neighbours but we are compatriots.
>
> Bill 84 FC 35 SB "$quanderlodge"
> Terrace, B.C. Canada

"$quanderlodge" doesn't make me real comfortable about ongoing
costs. ;-)
By the way, I suspect that I will end up with an 84/85 FC35SB but
why do they all have to be brown with orange carpet????

Ginger
BB wannabee