Tools and Fixit Stuff

[runnerful]

--- In WanderlodgeForum@yahoogroups.com, "bubblerboy64"
wrote:
>
> Boy, That's a tuff one to answer and to at the same time provide
> something useful in the way of information. I tend to think that
I
> would not buy much in the way of tools until you find a specific
> need. I think I would invest in a simple tool kit which you can
find
> at any of stores such as Home Depot or Lowe's. If you don't
already
> have them. Plier, asorted screw drivers, wrenches etc.

THat's kinda what I was thiking. If the seller is forthcoming, I'm
hoping they will fill me in on any "issues" the coach has that would
help the initial decision.

> I don't own a
> BB as yet

Ahhh, do you have a schedule?
My experiences have been with tents, tent trailers, a pull-behind
trailer and an old Winnie with the bed suspended over the driving
area. But, other than tenting, I was never solo and could rely on
the "Hoey Dew" list. LOL Now, there's just me and I have to get up
to speed.

> as well but I do have a 5th wheel trailer. We each have our
> own comfort level as to what types of repairs and fixits we are
able
> and willing to tackle. Not too certain a BB is the place to
start.

Gotta start somewhere. I feel more comfortable with electrical stuff
than with mechanical. I have expreience with electrical diagrams
and soldering electronic boards and such. What worries me about BB
electrical is how often there are redundant systems. Basic plumbing
like replacing faucets etc is no mystery. But engine stuff is"terra
incognita" and pretty scary.

> My impression is that you have to be a pretty skilled mechanic
> plumber carpenter and electician to tackle much in the repairs of
> this creatures. I will make the statement that vintage bluebirds
are
> best in the hands of rather advanced amature repair people or the
> full professionals. I can do some repairs. I added a bathroom in
> the basement of my home. I can do simple plumbing and carpentry.

You are too modest. Adding a bathromm is hardly simple plumbing and
carpentry. :-)

> Not
> too certain there is much I would tackle on a BB other then maybe
> cosmetic improvements. Everyone I have talked to tells me be
prepared
> to spend some money on these older MH's. This is something I am
> factoring into my purchase price and into my decision making.

Me too. We all have different tolerances and requirements. What
wasn't a problem for the previous owner might bug the heck out of me
and I'd have to fix something he was happy to ignore. So I think
it's prudent to budget several thousands to deal with these issues
in the first year or two.

> Am I a
> candidate for this type of thing? I would suggest perhaps you
> consider not attempting repairs. If you don't do it right you can
> make it worse and spend even more. Not to discourage but in my
> opinion (for what ever its worth) I don't think I would pick a BB
as
> a place to learn. John Heckman

Maybe I can find trades people who will let me watch and learn.

Thank you very much for your thoughtful response.
Ginger
BB wannabee
Toronto, Ont