Update On My Status In Reno....

[Leroy Eckert]

Watch out with that Apples and Oranges stuff. You might stir up a Sleeping
Redneck.
Leroy Eckert
1990 WB-40"Smoke N Mirrors"
Niceville, FL
----- Original Message -----
From: Don Bradner
To: WanderlodgeForum@yahoogroups.com
Sent: Tuesday, September 11, 2007 11:49 PM
Subject: Re: [WanderlodgeForum] Re: Update On My Status In Reno....


Expecting shop rates to be similar from state-to-state is like expecting
housing prices to be similar.

$95 is quite common in larger Western cities. I'm not surprised that it might
be lower in Alabama. Apples and Oranges.

Don Bradner
90 PT40 "Blue Thunder"
Posting today by satellite from Boise, Idaho, headed towards Salt Lake City
tomorrow.

On 9/12/2007 at 4:19 AM bumpersbird wrote:

>Andy,
>
>$135 AN HOUR!! Ouch! Even your reduced rate is high.
>Prevost in Nashville has a rate of $97 an hour. I cringe every time I
>go there. The Detroit Deisel shop in Huntsville Al. is under $80. The
>guy who ownes the shop just bought a 96 PT-42 so they are kinda
>sypathetic to our needs. Good luck and make them give you a warantee.
>
>Kurt Horvath
>'95 PT-42
>
>--- In WanderlodgeForum@yahoogroups.com, "Andy Coleman"
> wrote:
>>
>> Hello John,
>>
>> Sorry for my delay reponding to you...
>>
>> The Reno Sierra Freighliner has two hourly rates. They charge
>> $135/hour for "RVs and Buses" and $95/hour for "trucks".
>>
>> They agreed, given the size of my job, to charge me the $95 per
>hour rate.
>>
>> I think $95 is an average cost around the country. Unfortunately, I
>> was not lucky enough to find a shop with below average cost.
>>
>> At this point, I'm just hoping the job is done right.
>>
>> Andy Coleman
>> 83' FC-35
>> Spring Lake, NJ
>>
>> --- In WanderlodgeForum@yahoogroups.com, "bubblerboy64"
>> wrote:
>> >
>> >
>> > Glad to learn that you are not looking at a total rebuild or
>> > replacement. I am just curious what type of hourly rate is
>typical
>> > for this type of work? I am just thinking out loud. $3000 to get
>the
>> > engine out and I would assume as much to put it back. Ouch!!!
>Does
>> > it take that long or are the hourly rates just that high? The guy
>> > turning the wrenches likely sees very little of that as well.
>Just
>> > wondering.
>> >
>> > John Heckman
>> > central Pa
>> > 1973 FC
>> >
>> >
>> >
>> > >
>> > > Andy, I would have them repace the water hoses on the front of
>the
>> > engine
>> > > ,the two small heater hose are very hard to repalce with the
>engine
>> > in the
>> > > BB. Dave 91 WBWL 40
>> > >
>> > >
>> > > >From: "Howard O. Truitt" >> > > >Reply-To: WanderlodgeForum@yahoogroups.com
>> > > >To:
>> > > >Subject: Re: [WanderlodgeForum] Update On My Status In Reno....
>> > > >Date: Sun, 9 Sep 2007 12:41:07 -0400
>> > > >
>> > > >Andy,
>> > > >Hopefully R.E. Brake, The Putney Flash will give you his
>thoughts.
>> > Come on
>> > > >R.E.
>> > > >what do you say.
>> > > >Howard T.,
>> > > >
>> > > > ----- Original Message -----
>> > > > From: Andy Coleman
>> > > > To: WanderlodgeForum@yahoogroups.com
>> > > > Sent: Sunday, September 09, 2007 11:55 AM
>> > > > Subject: [WanderlodgeForum] Update On My Status In Reno....
>> > > >
>> > > >
>> > > > Hello Fellow Wanderlodgers:
>> > > >
>> > > > Luckily for me, I brought along a free round trip plane
>ticket
>> > when I
>> > > > departed for my first cross country road trip in my 83' FC-
>35.
>> > > >
>> > > > I flew home to NJ a few days ago.
>> > > >
>> > > > My Wanderlodge is still in the Sierra Freightliner
>(certified by
>> > > > Caterpillar) shop in Reno, Nevada. I just heard from the
>> > mechanic who
>> > > > told me, to my relief, that my 3208 engine failure was due
>to a
>> > blown
>> > > > head gasket. Unfortunately, they had to pull the engine
>> > completely
>> > > > out of the bus to remove the heads and determine the
>problem.
>> > > >
>> > > > The labor has already cost me over $3,000.
>> > > >
>> > > > They are going to call me back tomorrow with estimates on
>how
>> > much a
>> > > > new head gasket will cost. The mechanic recommended that I
>> > consider
>> > > > replacing the gasket on the other side of the engine as
>well,
>> > now that
>> > > > the entire motor is sitting on a stand.
>> > > >
>> > > > Do you folks recommend I replace the other gasket? Are
>there any
>> > > > other jobs I should have them do while the engine is out?
>> > > >
>> > > > Special thanks to everyone who responded to my panic e-
>mails a
>> > few
>> > > > weeks ago when the bus first broke down. I do appreciate
>all the
>> > > > advice and well wishes you sent me.
>> > > >
>> > > > I'll be flying back to Reno once the bus is fixed to resume
>the
>> > long
>> > > > ride home to NJ.
>> > > >
>> > > > Thanks again! I'll keep you all updated.
>> > > >
>> > > > Andy Coleman
>> > > > 83' FC-35
>> > > > Spring Lake Hts., NJ
>> > > >
>> > > >
>> > > >
>> > > >
>> > > >
>> > > >
>> > > >----------------------------------------------------------
>----
>> > -----------
>> > > >
>> > > >
>> > > > No virus found in this incoming message.
>> > > > Checked by AVG Free Edition.
>> > > > Version: 7.5.485 / Virus Database: 269.13.10/995 - Release
>> > Date:
>> > > >9/8/2007 1:24 PM
>> > > >
>> > > >
>> > > >[Non-text portions of this message have been removed]
>> > > >
>> > >
>> >
>>
>
>
>
>
>
>Yahoo! Groups Links
>
>
>





[Non-text portions of this message have been removed]

[Mike Hohnstein]

On that basis, I would look in Mississippi or south Georgia for bargin basement
pricing. On the other hand, I paid $90 an hour in western PA and the shop was
huge, clean and had a very good staff.
MH
----- Original Message -----
From: Don Bradner
To: WanderlodgeForum@yahoogroups.com
Sent: Tuesday, September 11, 2007 10:49 PM
Subject: Re: [WanderlodgeForum] Re: Update On My Status In Reno....


Expecting shop rates to be similar from state-to-state is like expecting
housing prices to be similar.

$95 is quite common in larger Western cities. I'm not surprised that it might
be lower in Alabama. Apples and Oranges.

Don Bradner
90 PT40 "Blue Thunder"
Posting today by satellite from Boise, Idaho, headed towards Salt Lake City
tomorrow.

On 9/12/2007 at 4:19 AM bumpersbird wrote:

>Andy,
>
>$135 AN HOUR!! Ouch! Even your reduced rate is high.
>Prevost in Nashville has a rate of $97 an hour. I cringe every time I
>go there. The Detroit Deisel shop in Huntsville Al. is under $80. The
>guy who ownes the shop just bought a 96 PT-42 so they are kinda
>sypathetic to our needs. Good luck and make them give you a warantee.
>
>Kurt Horvath
>'95 PT-42
>
>--- In WanderlodgeForum@yahoogroups.com, "Andy Coleman"
> wrote:
>>
>> Hello John,
>>
>> Sorry for my delay reponding to you...
>>
>> The Reno Sierra Freighliner has two hourly rates. They charge
>> $135/hour for "RVs and Buses" and $95/hour for "trucks".
>>
>> They agreed, given the size of my job, to charge me the $95 per
>hour rate.
>>
>> I think $95 is an average cost around the country. Unfortunately, I
>> was not lucky enough to find a shop with below average cost.
>>
>> At this point, I'm just hoping the job is done right.
>>
>> Andy Coleman
>> 83' FC-35
>> Spring Lake, NJ
>>
>> --- In WanderlodgeForum@yahoogroups.com, "bubblerboy64"
>> wrote:
>> >
>> >
>> > Glad to learn that you are not looking at a total rebuild or
>> > replacement. I am just curious what type of hourly rate is
>typical
>> > for this type of work? I am just thinking out loud. $3000 to get
>the
>> > engine out and I would assume as much to put it back. Ouch!!!
>Does
>> > it take that long or are the hourly rates just that high? The guy
>> > turning the wrenches likely sees very little of that as well.
>Just
>> > wondering.
>> >
>> > John Heckman
>> > central Pa
>> > 1973 FC
>> >
>> >
>> >
>> > >
>> > > Andy, I would have them repace the water hoses on the front of
>the
>> > engine
>> > > ,the two small heater hose are very hard to repalce with the
>engine
>> > in the
>> > > BB. Dave 91 WBWL 40
>> > >
>> > >
>> > > >From: "Howard O. Truitt" >> > > >Reply-To: WanderlodgeForum@yahoogroups.com
>> > > >To:
>> > > >Subject: Re: [WanderlodgeForum] Update On My Status In Reno....
>> > > >Date: Sun, 9 Sep 2007 12:41:07 -0400
>> > > >
>> > > >Andy,
>> > > >Hopefully R.E. Brake, The Putney Flash will give you his
>thoughts.
>> > Come on
>> > > >R.E.
>> > > >what do you say.
>> > > >Howard T.,
>> > > >
>> > > > ----- Original Message -----
>> > > > From: Andy Coleman
>> > > > To: WanderlodgeForum@yahoogroups.com
>> > > > Sent: Sunday, September 09, 2007 11:55 AM
>> > > > Subject: [WanderlodgeForum] Update On My Status In Reno....
>> > > >
>> > > >
>> > > > Hello Fellow Wanderlodgers:
>> > > >
>> > > > Luckily for me, I brought along a free round trip plane
>ticket
>> > when I
>> > > > departed for my first cross country road trip in my 83' FC-
>35.
>> > > >
>> > > > I flew home to NJ a few days ago.
>> > > >
>> > > > My Wanderlodge is still in the Sierra Freightliner
>(certified by
>> > > > Caterpillar) shop in Reno, Nevada. I just heard from the
>> > mechanic who
>> > > > told me, to my relief, that my 3208 engine failure was due
>to a
>> > blown
>> > > > head gasket. Unfortunately, they had to pull the engine
>> > completely
>> > > > out of the bus to remove the heads and determine the
>problem.
>> > > >
>> > > > The labor has already cost me over $3,000.
>> > > >
>> > > > They are going to call me back tomorrow with estimates on
>how
>> > much a
>> > > > new head gasket will cost. The mechanic recommended that I
>> > consider
>> > > > replacing the gasket on the other side of the engine as
>well,
>> > now that
>> > > > the entire motor is sitting on a stand.
>> > > >
>> > > > Do you folks recommend I replace the other gasket? Are
>there any
>> > > > other jobs I should have them do while the engine is out?
>> > > >
>> > > > Special thanks to everyone who responded to my panic e-
>mails a
>> > few
>> > > > weeks ago when the bus first broke down. I do appreciate
>all the
>> > > > advice and well wishes you sent me.
>> > > >
>> > > > I'll be flying back to Reno once the bus is fixed to resume
>the
>> > long
>> > > > ride home to NJ.
>> > > >
>> > > > Thanks again! I'll keep you all updated.
>> > > >
>> > > > Andy Coleman
>> > > > 83' FC-35
>> > > > Spring Lake Hts., NJ
>> > > >
>> > > >
>> > > >
>> > > >
>> > > >
>> > > >
>> > > >----------------------------------------------------------
>----
>> > -----------
>> > > >
>> > > >
>> > > > No virus found in this incoming message.
>> > > > Checked by AVG Free Edition.
>> > > > Version: 7.5.485 / Virus Database: 269.13.10/995 - Release
>> > Date:
>> > > >9/8/2007 1:24 PM
>> > > >
>> > > >
>> > > >[Non-text portions of this message have been removed]
>> > > >
>> > >
>> >
>>
>
>
>
>
>
>Yahoo! Groups Links
>
>
>





[Non-text portions of this message have been removed]

[Scott Forman]

I dropped a valve in my 82 FC a couple years back, the head was
removed, the engine wasn't.

Scott Forman
86 PT38
Memphis

--- In WanderlodgeForum@yahoogroups.com, "davidkerryedwards"
wrote:
>
> Andy:
> That news is better than a problem with a block. Others have given
good advice. I'm just
> curious as to why the engine had to be removed. I was under the
impression that with the
> doghouse removed, the heads could have been pulled with the engine
in place. Anyone
> have experience with this that can elaborate on why the engine
needs to come out for
> head gasket replacement?
>
> Kerry
> 82 Fc 35
> Denver
>
> --- In WanderlodgeForum@yahoogroups.com, "Andy Coleman"
wrote:
> >
> > Hello Fellow Wanderlodgers:
> >
> > Luckily for me, I brought along a free round trip plane ticket
when I
> > departed for my first cross country road trip in my 83' FC-35.
> >
> > I flew home to NJ a few days ago.
> >
> > My Wanderlodge is still in the Sierra Freightliner (certified by
> > Caterpillar) shop in Reno, Nevada. I just heard from the
mechanic who
> > told me, to my relief, that my 3208 engine failure was due to a
blown
> > head gasket. Unfortunately, they had to pull the engine
completely
> > out of the bus to remove the heads and determine the problem.
> >
> > The labor has already cost me over $3,000.
> >
> > They are going to call me back tomorrow with estimates on how
much a
> > new head gasket will cost. The mechanic recommended that I
consider
> > replacing the gasket on the other side of the engine as well, now
that
> > the entire motor is sitting on a stand.
> >
> > Do you folks recommend I replace the other gasket? Are there any
> > other jobs I should have them do while the engine is out?
> >
> > Special thanks to everyone who responded to my panic e-mails a few
> > weeks ago when the bus first broke down. I do appreciate all the
> > advice and well wishes you sent me.
> >
> > I'll be flying back to Reno once the bus is fixed to resume the
long
> > ride home to NJ.
> >
> > Thanks again! I'll keep you all updated.
> >
> > Andy Coleman
> > 83' FC-35
> > Spring Lake Hts., NJ
> >
>

[Kurt Horvath]

Hey, Boys

PEACHES and Oranges

PEACHES and Apples giter rite!

Kurt Horvath
'95 PT-42 Built in the great state of Georgia, C.S.A.


----- Original Message ----
From: Leroy Eckert
To: WanderlodgeForum@yahoogroups.com
Sent: Wednesday, September 12, 2007 7:05:45 AM
Subject: Re: [WanderlodgeForum] Re: Update On My Status In Reno....

Watch out with that Apples and Oranges stuff. You might stir up a Sleeping
Redneck.
Leroy Eckert
1990 WB-40"Smoke N Mirrors"
Niceville, FL
----- Original Message -----
From: Don Bradner
To: WanderlodgeForum@ yahoogroups. com
Sent: Tuesday, September 11, 2007 11:49 PM
Subject: Re: [WanderlodgeForum] Re: Update On My Status In Reno....

Expecting shop rates to be similar from state-to-state is like expecting housing
prices to be similar.

$95 is quite common in larger Western cities. I'm not surprised that it might be
lower in Alabama. Apples and Oranges.

Don Bradner
90 PT40 "Blue Thunder"
Posting today by satellite from Boise, Idaho, headed towards Salt Lake City
tomorrow.

On 9/12/2007 at 4:19 AM bumpersbird wrote:

>Andy,
>
>$135 AN HOUR!! Ouch! Even your reduced rate is high.
>Prevost in Nashville has a rate of $97 an hour. I cringe every time I
>go there. The Detroit Deisel shop in Huntsville Al. is under $80. The
>guy who ownes the shop just bought a 96 PT-42 so they are kinda
>sypathetic to our needs. Good luck and make them give you a warantee.
>
>Kurt Horvath
>'95 PT-42
>
>--- In WanderlodgeForum@ yahoogroups. com, "Andy Coleman"
> wrote:
>>
>> Hello John,
>>
>> Sorry for my delay reponding to you...
>>
>> The Reno Sierra Freighliner has two hourly rates. They charge
>> $135/hour for "RVs and Buses" and $95/hour for "trucks".
>>
>> They agreed, given the size of my job, to charge me the $95 per
>hour rate.
>>
>> I think $95 is an average cost around the country. Unfortunately, I
>> was not lucky enough to find a shop with below average cost.
>>
>> At this point, I'm just hoping the job is done right.
>>
>> Andy Coleman
>> 83' FC-35
>> Spring Lake, NJ
>>
>> --- In WanderlodgeForum@ yahoogroups. com, "bubblerboy64"
>> wrote:
>> >
>> >
>> > Glad to learn that you are not looking at a total rebuild or
>> > replacement. I am just curious what type of hourly rate is
>typical
>> > for this type of work? I am just thinking out loud. $3000 to get
>the
>> > engine out and I would assume as much to put it back. Ouch!!!
>Does
>> > it take that long or are the hourly rates just that high? The guy
>> > turning the wrenches likely sees very little of that as well.
>Just
>> > wondering.
>> >
>> > John Heckman
>> > central Pa
>> > 1973 FC
>> >
>> >
>> >
>> > >
>> > > Andy, I would have them repace the water hoses on the front of
>the
>> > engine
>> > > ,the two small heater hose are very hard to repalce with the
>engine
>> > in the
>> > > BB. Dave 91 WBWL 40
>> > >
>> > >
>> > > >From: "Howard O. Truitt" >> > > >Reply-To: WanderlodgeForum@ yahoogroups. com
>> > > >To:
>> > > >Subject: Re: [WanderlodgeForum] Update On My Status In Reno....
>> > > >Date: Sun, 9 Sep 2007 12:41:07 -0400
>> > > >
>> > > >Andy,
>> > > >Hopefully R.E. Brake, The Putney Flash will give you his
>thoughts.
>> > Come on
>> > > >R.E.
>> > > >what do you say.
>> > > >Howard T.,
>> > > >
>> > > > ----- Original Message -----
>> > > > From: Andy Coleman
>> > > > To: WanderlodgeForum@ yahoogroups. com
>> > > > Sent: Sunday, September 09, 2007 11:55 AM
>> > > > Subject: [WanderlodgeForum] Update On My Status In Reno....
>> > > >
>> > > >
>> > > > Hello Fellow Wanderlodgers:
>> > > >
>> > > > Luckily for me, I brought along a free round trip plane
>ticket
>> > when I
>> > > > departed for my first cross country road trip in my 83' FC-
>35.
>> > > >
>> > > > I flew home to NJ a few days ago.
>> > > >
>> > > > My Wanderlodge is still in the Sierra Freightliner
>(certified by
>> > > > Caterpillar) shop in Reno, Nevada. I just heard from the
>> > mechanic who
>> > > > told me, to my relief, that my 3208 engine failure was due
>to a
>> > blown
>> > > > head gasket. Unfortunately, they had to pull the engine
>> > completely
>> > > > out of the bus to remove the heads and determine the
>problem.
>> > > >
>> > > > The labor has already cost me over $3,000.
>> > > >
>> > > > They are going to call me back tomorrow with estimates on
>how
>> > much a
>> > > > new head gasket will cost. The mechanic recommended that I
>> > consider
>> > > > replacing the gasket on the other side of the engine as
>well,
>> > now that
>> > > > the entire motor is sitting on a stand.
>> > > >
>> > > > Do you folks recommend I replace the other gasket? Are
>there any
>> > > > other jobs I should have them do while the engine is out?
>> > > >
>> > > > Special thanks to everyone who responded to my panic e-
>mails a
>> > few
>> > > > weeks ago when the bus first broke down. I do appreciate
>all the
>> > > > advice and well wishes you sent me.
>> > > >
>> > > > I'll be flying back to Reno once the bus is fixed to resume
>the
>> > long
>> > > > ride home to NJ.
>> > > >
>> > > > Thanks again! I'll keep you all updated.
>> > > >
>> > > > Andy Coleman
>> > > > 83' FC-35
>> > > > Spring Lake Hts., NJ
>> > > >
>> > > >
>> > > >
>> > > >
>> > > >
>> > > >
>> > > >----------- --------- --------- --------- --------- --------- --
>----
>> > -----------
>> > > >
>> > > >
>> > > > No virus found in this incoming message.
>> > > > Checked by AVG Free Edition.
>> > > > Version: 7.5.485 / Virus Database: 269.13.10/995 - Release
>> > Date:
>> > > >9/8/2007 1:24 PM
>> > > >
>> > > >
>> > > >[Non-text portions of this message have been removed]
>> > > >
>> > >
>> >
>>
>
>
>
>
>
>Yahoo! Groups Links
>
>
>

[Non-text portions of this message have been removed]






________________________________________________________________________________​\
____
Catch up on fall's hot new shows on Yahoo! TV. Watch previews, get listings, and
more!
http://tv.yahoo.com/collections/3658

[Non-text portions of this message have been removed]

[Howard O. Truitt]

The best reason I can think of for pulling the engine is to build labor charges.
I know hind sight is 20/20 but pulling engines and guarantees are questions
that should be asked up front. Making sure that the shop is Cat or Detroit
certified is another question I would have. Making quick decisions can cost. I
would have the coach pulled to a safe storage area and take time to make calls,
consult the forum, check for certified shops, negoiate labor rates. In most
cases you will be down several days a couple more days down could save a lot of
headaches and money. I am reminded of the old saying " when you are in the swamp
and up to your a** in alligators it is hard to remember the reason you are there
is to drain the swamp."
JMHO.
Howard T., Sowega, 86 PT40

----- Original Message -----
From: Scott Forman
To: WanderlodgeForum@yahoogroups.com
Sent: Wednesday, September 12, 2007 2:01 PM
Subject: [WanderlodgeForum] Re: Update On My Status In Reno....


I dropped a valve in my 82 FC a couple years back, the head was
removed, the engine wasn't.

Scott Forman
86 PT38
Memphis

--- In WanderlodgeForum@yahoogroups.com, "davidkerryedwards"
wrote:
>
> Andy:
> That news is better than a problem with a block. Others have given
good advice. I'm just
> curious as to why the engine had to be removed. I was under the
impression that with the
> doghouse removed, the heads could have been pulled with the engine
in place. Anyone
> have experience with this that can elaborate on why the engine
needs to come out for
> head gasket replacement?
>
> Kerry
> 82 Fc 35
> Denver
>
> --- In WanderlodgeForum@yahoogroups.com, "Andy Coleman"
wrote:
> >
> > Hello Fellow Wanderlodgers:
> >
> > Luckily for me, I brought along a free round trip plane ticket
when I
> > departed for my first cross country road trip in my 83' FC-35.
> >
> > I flew home to NJ a few days ago.
> >
> > My Wanderlodge is still in the Sierra Freightliner (certified by
> > Caterpillar) shop in Reno, Nevada. I just heard from the
mechanic who
> > told me, to my relief, that my 3208 engine failure was due to a
blown
> > head gasket. Unfortunately, they had to pull the engine
completely
> > out of the bus to remove the heads and determine the problem.
> >
> > The labor has already cost me over $3,000.
> >
> > They are going to call me back tomorrow with estimates on how
much a
> > new head gasket will cost. The mechanic recommended that I
consider
> > replacing the gasket on the other side of the engine as well, now
that
> > the entire motor is sitting on a stand.
> >
> > Do you folks recommend I replace the other gasket? Are there any
> > other jobs I should have them do while the engine is out?
> >
> > Special thanks to everyone who responded to my panic e-mails a few
> > weeks ago when the bus first broke down. I do appreciate all the
> > advice and well wishes you sent me.
> >
> > I'll be flying back to Reno once the bus is fixed to resume the
long
> > ride home to NJ.
> >
> > Thanks again! I'll keep you all updated.
> >
> > Andy Coleman
> > 83' FC-35
> > Spring Lake Hts., NJ
> >
>






------------------------------------------------------------------------------


No virus found in this incoming message.
Checked by AVG Free Edition.
Version: 7.5.485 / Virus Database: 269.13.10/995 - Release Date: 9/8/2007 1:24
PM


[Non-text portions of this message have been removed]

[davidkerryedwards]

Good to know I'm not the only one to find something odd about the procedure.

Kerry
82 Fc 35
Denver

--- In WanderlodgeForum@yahoogroups.com, "Howard O. Truitt" wrote:
>
> The best reason I can think of for pulling the engine is to build labor
charges.
> I know hind sight is 20/20 but pulling engines and guarantees are questions
that
should be asked up front. Making sure that the shop is Cat or Detroit certified
is another
question I would have. Making quick decisions can cost. I would have the coach
pulled to a
safe storage area and take time to make calls, consult the forum, check for
certified shops,
negoiate labor rates. In most cases you will be down several days a couple more
days
down could save a lot of headaches and money. I am reminded of the old saying "
when
you are in the swamp and up to your a** in alligators it is hard to remember the
reason
you are there is to drain the swamp."
> JMHO.
> Howard T., Sowega, 86 PT40
>
> ----- Original Message -----
> From: Scott Forman
> To: WanderlodgeForum@yahoogroups.com
> Sent: Wednesday, September 12, 2007 2:01 PM
> Subject: [WanderlodgeForum] Re: Update On My Status In Reno....
>
>
> I dropped a valve in my 82 FC a couple years back, the head was
> removed, the engine wasn't.
>
> Scott Forman
> 86 PT38
> Memphis
>
> --- In WanderlodgeForum@yahoogroups.com, "davidkerryedwards"
> wrote:
> >
> > Andy:
> > That news is better than a problem with a block. Others have given
> good advice. I'm just
> > curious as to why the engine had to be removed. I was under the
> impression that with the
> > doghouse removed, the heads could have been pulled with the engine
> in place. Anyone
> > have experience with this that can elaborate on why the engine
> needs to come out for
> > head gasket replacement?
> >
> > Kerry
> > 82 Fc 35
> > Denver
> >
> > --- In WanderlodgeForum@yahoogroups.com, "Andy Coleman"
> wrote:
> > >
> > > Hello Fellow Wanderlodgers:
> > >
> > > Luckily for me, I brought along a free round trip plane ticket
> when I
> > > departed for my first cross country road trip in my 83' FC-35.
> > >
> > > I flew home to NJ a few days ago.
> > >
> > > My Wanderlodge is still in the Sierra Freightliner (certified by
> > > Caterpillar) shop in Reno, Nevada. I just heard from the
> mechanic who
> > > told me, to my relief, that my 3208 engine failure was due to a
> blown
> > > head gasket. Unfortunately, they had to pull the engine
> completely
> > > out of the bus to remove the heads and determine the problem.
> > >
> > > The labor has already cost me over $3,000.
> > >
> > > They are going to call me back tomorrow with estimates on how
> much a
> > > new head gasket will cost. The mechanic recommended that I
> consider
> > > replacing the gasket on the other side of the engine as well, now
> that
> > > the entire motor is sitting on a stand.
> > >
> > > Do you folks recommend I replace the other gasket? Are there any
> > > other jobs I should have them do while the engine is out?
> > >
> > > Special thanks to everyone who responded to my panic e-mails a few
> > > weeks ago when the bus first broke down. I do appreciate all the
> > > advice and well wishes you sent me.
> > >
> > > I'll be flying back to Reno once the bus is fixed to resume the
> long
> > > ride home to NJ.
> > >
> > > Thanks again! I'll keep you all updated.
> > >
> > > Andy Coleman
> > > 83' FC-35
> > > Spring Lake Hts., NJ
> > >
> >
>
>
>
>
>
>
>
----------------------------------------------------------------------------
--
>
>
> No virus found in this incoming message.
> Checked by AVG Free Edition.
> Version: 7.5.485 / Virus Database: 269.13.10/995 - Release Date: 9/8/2007
1:24 PM
>
>
> [Non-text portions of this message have been removed]
>

[putneyflash@...>]

If the engine has over 100,000 milesyou may want to roll in rod and main
bearing.
re in georgia
>
> From: "Howard O. Truitt" > Date: 2007/09/12 Wed PM 03:39:51 EDT
> To:
> Subject: [WanderlodgeForum] Update On My Status In Reno....
>
> The best reason I can think of for pulling the engine is to build labor
charges.
> I know hind sight is 20/20 but pulling engines and guarantees are questions
that should be asked up front. Making sure that the shop is Cat or Detroit
certified is another question I would have. Making quick decisions can cost. I
would have the coach pulled to a safe storage area and take time to make calls,
consult the forum, check for certified shops, negoiate labor rates. In most
cases you will be down several days a couple more days down could save a lot of
headaches and money. I am reminded of the old saying " when you are in the swamp
and up to your a** in alligators it is hard to remember the reason you are there
is to drain the swamp."
> JMHO.
> Howard T., Sowega, 86 PT40
>
> ----- Original Message -----
> From: Scott Forman
> To: WanderlodgeForum@yahoogroups.com
> Sent: Wednesday, September 12, 2007 2:01 PM
> Subject: [WanderlodgeForum] Re: Update On My Status In Reno....
>
>
> I dropped a valve in my 82 FC a couple years back, the head was
> removed, the engine wasn't.
>
> Scott Forman
> 86 PT38
> Memphis
>
> --- In WanderlodgeForum@yahoogroups.com, "davidkerryedwards"
> wrote:
> >
> > Andy:
> > That news is better than a problem with a block. Others have given
> good advice. I'm just
> > curious as to why the engine had to be removed. I was under the
> impression that with the
> > doghouse removed, the heads could have been pulled with the engine
> in place. Anyone
> > have experience with this that can elaborate on why the engine
> needs to come out for
> > head gasket replacement?
> >
> > Kerry
> > 82 Fc 35
> > Denver
> >
> > --- In WanderlodgeForum@yahoogroups.com, "Andy Coleman"
> wrote:
> > >
> > > Hello Fellow Wanderlodgers:
> > >
> > > Luckily for me, I brought along a free round trip plane ticket
> when I
> > > departed for my first cross country road trip in my 83' FC-35.
> > >
> > > I flew home to NJ a few days ago.
> > >
> > > My Wanderlodge is still in the Sierra Freightliner (certified by
> > > Caterpillar) shop in Reno, Nevada. I just heard from the
> mechanic who
> > > told me, to my relief, that my 3208 engine failure was due to a
> blown
> > > head gasket. Unfortunately, they had to pull the engine
> completely
> > > out of the bus to remove the heads and determine the problem.
> > >
> > > The labor has already cost me over $3,000.
> > >
> > > They are going to call me back tomorrow with estimates on how
> much a
> > > new head gasket will cost. The mechanic recommended that I
> consider
> > > replacing the gasket on the other side of the engine as well, now
> that
> > > the entire motor is sitting on a stand.
> > >
> > > Do you folks recommend I replace the other gasket? Are there any
> > > other jobs I should have them do while the engine is out?
> > >
> > > Special thanks to everyone who responded to my panic e-mails a few
> > > weeks ago when the bus first broke down. I do appreciate all the
> > > advice and well wishes you sent me.
> > >
> > > I'll be flying back to Reno once the bus is fixed to resume the
> long
> > > ride home to NJ.
> > >
> > > Thanks again! I'll keep you all updated.
> > >
> > > Andy Coleman
> > > 83' FC-35
> > > Spring Lake Hts., NJ
> > >
> >
>
>
>
>
>
>
> ------------------------------------------------------------------------------
>
>
> No virus found in this incoming message.
> Checked by AVG Free Edition.
> Version: 7.5.485 / Virus Database: 269.13.10/995 - Release Date: 9/8/2007
1:24 PM
>
>
> [Non-text portions of this message have been removed]
>
>
>

[Andy Coleman]

Hello Howard,

Thank you for the e-mail.

There are 3 certified cat shops in Reno and surrounding Sparks. I
contacted all 3. One refused to work on a bus as old as mine. One
was not familiar with buses, but would give it a try... The third one
worked on RVs and Bluebird School Buses all the time. I went with the
third.

I hope they did not pull the motor from my FC to pad my bill. I don't
think they have much experience with Wanderlodges, of course. The
mechanic also explained that he was having trouble removing rusted
exhaust bolts to get to the head. Another reason - says he - to
remove the engine.

They seem reputable. I hope I don't wind up in the aligators a _ _!

Andy

--- In WanderlodgeForum@yahoogroups.com, "Howard O. Truitt"
wrote:
>
> The best reason I can think of for pulling the engine is to build
labor charges.
> I know hind sight is 20/20 but pulling engines and guarantees are
questions that should be asked up front. Making sure that the shop is
Cat or Detroit certified is another question I would have. Making
quick decisions can cost. I would have the coach pulled to a safe
storage area and take time to make calls, consult the forum, check for
certified shops, negoiate labor rates. In most cases you will be down
several days a couple more days down could save a lot of headaches and
money. I am reminded of the old saying " when you are in the swamp and
up to your a** in alligators it is hard to remember the reason you are
there is to drain the swamp."
> JMHO.
> Howard T., Sowega, 86 PT40
>
> ----- Original Message -----
> From: Scott Forman
> To: WanderlodgeForum@yahoogroups.com
> Sent: Wednesday, September 12, 2007 2:01 PM
> Subject: [WanderlodgeForum] Re: Update On My Status In Reno....
>
>
> I dropped a valve in my 82 FC a couple years back, the head was
> removed, the engine wasn't.
>
> Scott Forman
> 86 PT38
> Memphis
>
> --- In WanderlodgeForum@yahoogroups.com, "davidkerryedwards"
> wrote:
> >
> > Andy:
> > That news is better than a problem with a block. Others have given
> good advice. I'm just
> > curious as to why the engine had to be removed. I was under the
> impression that with the
> > doghouse removed, the heads could have been pulled with the engine
> in place. Anyone
> > have experience with this that can elaborate on why the engine
> needs to come out for
> > head gasket replacement?
> >
> > Kerry
> > 82 Fc 35
> > Denver
> >
> > --- In WanderlodgeForum@yahoogroups.com, "Andy Coleman"
> wrote:
> > >
> > > Hello Fellow Wanderlodgers:
> > >
> > > Luckily for me, I brought along a free round trip plane ticket
> when I
> > > departed for my first cross country road trip in my 83' FC-35.
> > >
> > > I flew home to NJ a few days ago.
> > >
> > > My Wanderlodge is still in the Sierra Freightliner (certified by
> > > Caterpillar) shop in Reno, Nevada. I just heard from the
> mechanic who
> > > told me, to my relief, that my 3208 engine failure was due to a
> blown
> > > head gasket. Unfortunately, they had to pull the engine
> completely
> > > out of the bus to remove the heads and determine the problem.
> > >
> > > The labor has already cost me over $3,000.
> > >
> > > They are going to call me back tomorrow with estimates on how
> much a
> > > new head gasket will cost. The mechanic recommended that I
> consider
> > > replacing the gasket on the other side of the engine as well, now
> that
> > > the entire motor is sitting on a stand.
> > >
> > > Do you folks recommend I replace the other gasket? Are there any
> > > other jobs I should have them do while the engine is out?
> > >
> > > Special thanks to everyone who responded to my panic e-mails a few
> > > weeks ago when the bus first broke down. I do appreciate all the
> > > advice and well wishes you sent me.
> > >
> > > I'll be flying back to Reno once the bus is fixed to resume the
> long
> > > ride home to NJ.
> > >
> > > Thanks again! I'll keep you all updated.
> > >
> > > Andy Coleman
> > > 83' FC-35
> > > Spring Lake Hts., NJ
> > >
> >
>
>
>
>
>
>
>
------------------------------------------------------------------------------
>
>
> No virus found in this incoming message.
> Checked by AVG Free Edition.
> Version: 7.5.485 / Virus Database: 269.13.10/995 - Release Date:
9/8/2007 1:24 PM
>
>
> [Non-text portions of this message have been removed]
>

[erniecarpet@...]

In a message dated 9/13/2007 1:02:16 P.M. Mountain Standard Time,
jaxdon@... writes:

Jack & Donna Smith
1973FC31 (for sale)


Jack- you getting out of the bird business?

Ernie Ekberg
83PT40
Livingston, Mt




************************************** See what's new at http://www.aol.com


[Non-text portions of this message have been removed]

[Howard O. Truitt]

Andy,
I have been bitten before. I took my coach to a shop in Albany Ga. for a repair
I did not want to do. I expected a 200.00 to 250.00 dollar bill. I got socked
with a 950.00 dollar bill. They showed parts of 650.00 and labor of 300.00.
After the fact I checked the cost of the parts 145.00 dollars and if I had
really tried I couild have handled the replacement. Needless to say I have never
darkened there door again.
I wish the best of luck to you.
Howard Truitt, Camilla, Ga., 86 PT40


----- Original Message -----
From: Andy Coleman
To: WanderlodgeForum@yahoogroups.com
Sent: Thursday, September 13, 2007 12:43 PM
Subject: [WanderlodgeForum] Re: Update On My Status In Reno....


Hello Howard,

Thank you for the e-mail.

There are 3 certified cat shops in Reno and surrounding Sparks. I
contacted all 3. One refused to work on a bus as old as mine. One
was not familiar with buses, but would give it a try... The third one
worked on RVs and Bluebird School Buses all the time. I went with the
third.

I hope they did not pull the motor from my FC to pad my bill. I don't
think they have much experience with Wanderlodges, of course. The
mechanic also explained that he was having trouble removing rusted
exhaust bolts to get to the head. Another reason - says he - to
remove the engine.

They seem reputable. I hope I don't wind up in the aligators a _ _!

Andy

--- In WanderlodgeForum@yahoogroups.com, "Howard O. Truitt"
wrote:
>
> The best reason I can think of for pulling the engine is to build
labor charges.
> I know hind sight is 20/20 but pulling engines and guarantees are
questions that should be asked up front. Making sure that the shop is
Cat or Detroit certified is another question I would have. Making
quick decisions can cost. I would have the coach pulled to a safe
storage area and take time to make calls, consult the forum, check for
certified shops, negoiate labor rates. In most cases you will be down
several days a couple more days down could save a lot of headaches and
money. I am reminded of the old saying " when you are in the swamp and
up to your a** in alligators it is hard to remember the reason you are
there is to drain the swamp."
> JMHO.
> Howard T., Sowega, 86 PT40
>
> ----- Original Message -----
> From: Scott Forman
> To: WanderlodgeForum@yahoogroups.com
> Sent: Wednesday, September 12, 2007 2:01 PM
> Subject: [WanderlodgeForum] Re: Update On My Status In Reno....
>
>
> I dropped a valve in my 82 FC a couple years back, the head was
> removed, the engine wasn't.
>
> Scott Forman
> 86 PT38
> Memphis
>
> --- In WanderlodgeForum@yahoogroups.com, "davidkerryedwards"
> wrote:
> >
> > Andy:
> > That news is better than a problem with a block. Others have given
> good advice. I'm just
> > curious as to why the engine had to be removed. I was under the
> impression that with the
> > doghouse removed, the heads could have been pulled with the engine
> in place. Anyone
> > have experience with this that can elaborate on why the engine
> needs to come out for
> > head gasket replacement?
> >
> > Kerry
> > 82 Fc 35
> > Denver
> >
> > --- In WanderlodgeForum@yahoogroups.com, "Andy Coleman"
> wrote:
> > >
> > > Hello Fellow Wanderlodgers:
> > >
> > > Luckily for me, I brought along a free round trip plane ticket
> when I
> > > departed for my first cross country road trip in my 83' FC-35.
> > >
> > > I flew home to NJ a few days ago.
> > >
> > > My Wanderlodge is still in the Sierra Freightliner (certified by
> > > Caterpillar) shop in Reno, Nevada. I just heard from the
> mechanic who
> > > told me, to my relief, that my 3208 engine failure was due to a
> blown
> > > head gasket. Unfortunately, they had to pull the engine
> completely
> > > out of the bus to remove the heads and determine the problem.
> > >
> > > The labor has already cost me over $3,000.
> > >
> > > They are going to call me back tomorrow with estimates on how
> much a
> > > new head gasket will cost. The mechanic recommended that I
> consider
> > > replacing the gasket on the other side of the engine as well, now
> that
> > > the entire motor is sitting on a stand.
> > >
> > > Do you folks recommend I replace the other gasket? Are there any
> > > other jobs I should have them do while the engine is out?
> > >
> > > Special thanks to everyone who responded to my panic e-mails a few
> > > weeks ago when the bus first broke down. I do appreciate all the
> > > advice and well wishes you sent me.
> > >
> > > I'll be flying back to Reno once the bus is fixed to resume the
> long
> > > ride home to NJ.
> > >
> > > Thanks again! I'll keep you all updated.
> > >
> > > Andy Coleman
> > > 83' FC-35
> > > Spring Lake Hts., NJ
> > >
> >
>
>
>
>
>
>
>
----------------------------------------------------------
>
>
> No virus found in this incoming message.
> Checked by AVG Free Edition.
> Version: 7.5.485 / Virus Database: 269.13.10/995 - Release Date:
9/8/2007 1:24 PM
>
>
> [Non-text portions of this message have been removed]
>






------------------------------------------------------------------------------


No virus found in this incoming message.
Checked by AVG Free Edition.
Version: 7.5.485 / Virus Database: 269.13.10/995 - Release Date: 9/8/2007 1:24
PM


[Non-text portions of this message have been removed]