Had my BB checked out $$$$

[jburgessx2]

Well, I recently bought this 85 PT40 and decided to have it serviced because the
records from the PO were sketchy. I had the oil changed, trans serviced, lubed
and inspected. It was spendy (I knew it would be since I didn't do the work
myself) and they found a few things I didn't know was wrong. First, the tie
rods have lost their boots and are running dry - a dangerous situation. I also
have a leak in the wheel on the tag - it has ruined the brakes on that side (the
rear seal). I also have an air leak somewhere (not affecting much at this
point) but still an issue. So, looks like I have a little more work to do.
But, I'll feel safer taking it on the road next month with the repairs done.

I also took it to the tire shop because I had the valve stems leaking on three
of the tires (one front, one inner dual, one tag). They were all fine and had
air on Saturday. By Tuesday, those three were leaking. I worry when my tires
aren't quite right since my life depends on it. But, that was a cheap, easy fix
anyways.

Thought I would just share my trip to the shop. I'm sure many of you have gone
through the same thing. As I learn more, I'll be able to take on a few more of
the chores.

Jerry
85 PT40

[Pete Masterson]

Between the higher pressure in the bus tires and debris that might be involved, I've found that the schrader valves have a tendency to not completely seal some times.

1. Get some metal valve caps with rubber seals inside. Check the seals regularly to ensure that they are still there and not damaged.

2. Get a valve wrench and a bunch of the valve cores. Replace the leakers.

I found a vendor on the Internet that seemed to have "good quality" valve cores (they were described as "high temperature") and some metal valve caps. They were packaged in bags of 100, but weren't terribly expensive. I bought a bag of each.

I've probably gone through a twenty or more of the valve cores over the past couple of years -- and it's handy when a dropped valve cap disappears far under the coach to just get another one out of the tool box.

Be especially careful of the pass-through valve caps (the ones where you can put air in through the cap). They're usually a recipe for leaks. (Previous owner had them on all tires. I suppose he used 'em because they were also an extension which on my coach is a plus for the steer axle.)

Pete Masterson

'95 Blue Bird Wanderlodge WBDA 42

El Sobrante CA

"aeonix1@mac.com"

On Apr 8, 2009, at 5:16 PM, jburgessx2 wrote:

<snip>
I also took it to the tire shop because I had the valve stems leaking on three of the tires (one front, one inner dual, one tag). They were all fine and had air on Saturday. By Tuesday, those three were leaking. I worry when my tires aren't quite right since my life depends on it. But, that was a cheap, easy fix anyways.

<snip>

[jburgessx2]

Pete,

The tag tire had a leaky stem (was missing the cap). The other two weren't
leaking from the stem end, but from the seal where the stem meets the rim. They
both had to be broken down and new stems installed.

I did replace all the caps with a cap that has a double seal in it but still
allows you to check the air. You can also put a closed cap on the end if
desired. I think I will get some good caps to install as an added measure of
safety.

Jerry
85 PT40

--- In WanderlodgeForum@yahoogroups.com, Pete Masterson wrote:
>
> Between the higher pressure in the bus tires and debris that might be
> involved, I've found that the schrader valves have a tendency to not
> completely seal some times.
>
> 1. Get some metal valve caps with rubber seals inside. Check the seals
> regularly to ensure that they are still there and not damaged.
> 2. Get a valve wrench and a bunch of the valve cores. Replace the
> leakers.
>
> I found a vendor on the Internet that seemed to have "good quality"
> valve cores (they were described as "high temperature") and some metal
> valve caps. They were packaged in bags of 100, but weren't terribly
> expensive. I bought a bag of each.
>
> I've probably gone through a twenty or more of the valve cores over
> the past couple of years -- and it's handy when a dropped valve cap
> disappears far under the coach to just get another one out of the tool
> box.
>
> Be especially careful of the pass-through valve caps (the ones where
> you can put air in through the cap). They're usually a recipe for
> leaks. (Previous owner had them on all tires. I suppose he used 'em
> because they were also an extension which on my coach is a plus for
> the steer axle.)
>
> Pete Masterson
> '95 Blue Bird Wanderlodge WBDA 42
> El Sobrante CA
> aeonix1@...
>
>
>
> On Apr 8, 2009, at 5:16 PM, jburgessx2 wrote:
> > <snip>
> > I also took it to the tire shop because I had the valve stems
> > leaking on three of the tires (one front, one inner dual, one tag).
> > They were all fine and had air on Saturday. By Tuesday, those three
> > were leaking. I worry when my tires aren't quite right since my
> > life depends on it. But, that was a cheap, easy fix anyways.
> <snip>
>

[Wayne Kotila]

Hi, high pressure tires and valve cores leaking after you check your pressure or add air is a frequent problem. When I need to check or add air I always have a can of silicone spray with me. After I take a tire pressure reading if the valve core starts leaking, I spray some silicone on the end of the tire chuck from my air compressor hose and then put it on the valve stem with the leaking valve core and put a shot of air mixed with silicone in. This lubricates the valve seal and it stops leaking, then if the tire was a little lowI can add air and the valve core will seal afterI am done adding air. Silicone is good for rubber seals inside the valve cores and doing thisI haven't replaced a valve core on my 1985 PT40 in allmost 10 years, andmy tires hold their air
pressure very well, I have 2 tires that over the winter might loose up to 10 psi.The valve core seals just need a little lubrication.

Wayne

1985 PT40

---

From: Pete Masterson
To: WanderlodgeForum@yahoogroups.com
Sent: Wednesday, April 8, 2009 9:57:45 PM
Subject: Re: [WanderlodgeForum] Had my BB checked out $$$$

Between the higher pressure in the bus tires and debris that might be involved, I've found that the schrader valves have a tendency to not completely seal some times.

1. Get some metal valve caps with rubber seals inside. Check the seals regularly to ensure that they are still there and not damaged.

2. Get a valve wrench and a bunch of the valve cores. Replace the leakers.

I found a vendor on the Internet that seemed to have "good quality" valve cores (they were described as "high temperature" ) and some metal valve caps. They were packaged in bags of 100, but weren't terribly expensive. I bought a bag of each.

I've probably gone through a twenty or more of the valve cores over the past couple of years -- and it's handy when a dropped valve cap disappears far under the coach to just get another one out of the tool box.

Be especially careful of the pass-through valve caps (the ones where you can put air in through the cap). They're usually a recipe for leaks. (Previous owner had them on all tires. I suppose he used 'em because they were also an extension which on my coach is a plus for the steer axle.)

Pete Masterson

'95 Blue Bird Wanderlodge WBDA 42

El Sobrante CA

"aeonix1@mac.com"

On Apr 8, 2009, at 5:16 PM, jburgessx2 wrote:

<snip>
I also took it to the tire shop because I had the valve stems leaking on three of the tires (one front, one inner dual, one tag). They were all fine and had air on Saturday. By Tuesday, those three were leaking. I worry when my tires aren't quite right since my life depends on it. But, that was a cheap, easy fix anyways.

<snip>

[jburgessx2]

Wayne,

Good info to know - I hadn't thought of that. I always have a can of silicone
on hand (and a can of graphite). That sounds like a good way to ensure the
seals don't dry out.

Jerry
85 PT40


--- In WanderlodgeForum@yahoogroups.com, Wayne Kotila wrote:
>
> Hi, high pressure tires and valve cores leaking after you check your pressure
or add air is a frequent problem. When I need to check or add air I always have
a can of silicone spray with me. After I take a tire pressure reading if the
valve core starts leaking, I spray some silicone on the end of the tire chuck
from my air compressor hose and then put it on the valve stem with the leaking
valve core and put a shot of air mixed with silicone in. This lubricates the
valve seal and it stops leaking, then if the tire was a little low I can add air
and the valve core will seal after I am done adding air. Silicone is good for
rubber seals inside the valve cores and doing this I haven't replaced a valve
core on my 1985 PT40 in allmost 10 years, and my tires hold their air pressure
very well, I have 2 tires that over the winter might loose up to 10 psi. The
valve core seals just need a little lubrication.
> Wayne
> 1985 PT40
>
>
>
>
> ________________________________
> From: Pete Masterson
> To: WanderlodgeForum@yahoogroups.com
> Sent: Wednesday, April 8, 2009 9:57:45 PM
> Subject: Re: [WanderlodgeForum] Had my BB checked out $$$$
>
>
>
>
>
> Between the higher pressure in the bus tires and debris that might be
involved, I've found that the schrader valves have a tendency to not completely
seal some times.
>
> 1. Get some metal valve caps with rubber seals inside. Check the seals
regularly to ensure that they are still there and not damaged.
> 2. Get a valve wrench and a bunch of the valve cores. Replace the leakers.
>
> I found a vendor on the Internet that seemed to have "good quality" valve
cores (they were described as "high temperature" ) and some metal valve caps.
They were packaged in bags of 100, but weren't terribly expensive.. I bought a
bag of each.
>
> I've probably gone through a twenty or more of the valve cores over the past
couple of years -- and it's handy when a dropped valve cap disappears far under
the coach to just get another one out of the tool box.
>
> Be especially careful of the pass-through valve caps (the ones where you can
put air in through the cap). They're usually a recipe for leaks. (Previous owner
had them on all tires. I suppose he used 'em because they were also an extension
which on my coach is a plus for the steer axle.)
>
>
> Pete Masterson
> '95 Blue Bird Wanderlodge WBDA 42
> El Sobrante CA
> aeonix1@mac. com
>
>
>
> On Apr 8, 2009, at 5:16 PM, jburgessx2 wrote:
> <snip>
> I also took it to the tire shop because I had the valve stems leaking on three
of the tires (one front, one inner dual, one tag). They were all fine and had
air on Saturday. By Tuesday, those three were leaking. I worry when my tires
aren't quite right since my life depends on it. But, that was a cheap, easy fix
anyways.
> <snip>
>

[Pete Masterson]

That's a good idea that hadn't occurred to me. I note, however, that the schrader valve cores seem to have a thin plastic "apron" that makes the final seal. I've noticed that some of the leakers seem to get a crease or partial tear in the plastic.

I also suspect debris of some sort, as simply adding an extra pulse of air (without any lubricant) will sometimes stop a leaker.

The last line of defense is a good cap on the valve stem. Of course, if you get a leak down where the stem connects to the wheel, then you're out of luck. You just have to pull the wheel and tire and replace the stem.

Pete Masterson

'95 Blue Bird Wanderlodge WBDA 42

El Sobrante CA

"aeonix1@mac.com"

On Apr 8, 2009, at 8:26 PM, Wayne Kotila wrote:

Hi, high pressure tires and valve cores leaking after you check your pressure or add air is a frequent problem. When I need to check or add air I always have a can of silicone spray with me. After I take a tire pressure reading if the valve core starts leaking, I spray some silicone on the end of the tire chuck from my air compressor hose and then put it on the valve stem with the leaking valve core and put a shot of air mixed with silicone in. This lubricates the valve seal and it stops leaking, then if the tire was a little lowI can add air and the valve core will seal afterI am done adding air. Silicone is good for rubber seals inside the valve cores and doing thisI haven't replaced a valve core on my 1985 PT40 in allmost 10 years, andmy tires hold their air pressure very well, I have 2 tires that over the winter might loose up to 10 psi.The valve core seals just need a little lubrication.

Wayne

1985 PT40

---

From:Pete Masterson <"aeonix1@mac.com">
To:"WanderlodgeForum@yahoogroups.com"
Sent:Wednesday, April 8, 2009 9:57:45 PM
Subject:Re: [WanderlodgeForum] Had my BB checked out $$$$

Between the higher pressure in the bus tires and debris that might be involved, I've found that the schrader valves have a tendency to not completely seal some times.

1. Get some metal valve caps with rubber seals inside. Check the seals regularly to ensure that they are still there and not damaged.

2. Get a valve wrench and a bunch of the valve cores. Replace the leakers.

I found a vendor on the Internet that seemed to have "good quality" valve cores (they were described as "high temperature" ) and some metal valve caps. They were packaged in bags of 100, but weren't terribly expensive. I bought a bag of each.

I've probably gone through a twenty or more of the valve cores over the past couple of years -- and it's handy when a dropped valve cap disappears far under the coach to just get another one out of the tool box.

Be especially careful of the pass-through valve caps (the ones where you can put air in through the cap). They're usually a recipe for leaks. (Previous owner had them on all tires. I suppose he used 'em because they were also an extension which on my coach is a plus for the steer axle.)

Pete Masterson

'95 Blue Bird Wanderlodge WBDA 42

El Sobrante CA

"aeonix1@mac.com"

On Apr 8, 2009, at 5:16 PM, jburgessx2 wrote:

<snip>
I also took it to the tire shop because I had the valve stems leaking on three of the tires (one front, one inner dual, one tag). They were all fine and had air on Saturday. By Tuesday, those three were leaking. I worry when my tires aren't quite right since my life depends on it. But, that was a cheap, easy fix anyways.

<snip>

[Rick Davis]

I recently replaced my 8 tires with new ones, and being a newby I unfortunantly did not replace the valve stems at the same time. The medal stem may last forever but the rubber seal at the base doesn't. I just didn't think about it, and if I had used a goodtire shop they may have made an issue of it.I always get new stems for my other vehicles,and told the wife it probably didn't dawn on mebecause it is the first time I have had a vehicle with medal stems and subconsciously thought they were indistructable. She quickly corrected me saying I was juststupid. I had no come back for that one.

Rick, and the always right Marilyn, Davis

1993 side aisle

Currently in Houston

---

From: jburgessx2
To: WanderlodgeForum@yahoogroups.com
Sent: Wednesday, April 8, 2009 7:16:31 PM
Subject: [WanderlodgeForum] Had my BB checked out $$$$

Well, I recently bought this 85 PT40 and decided to have it serviced because the records from the PO were sketchy. I had the oil changed, trans serviced, lubed and inspected. It was spendy (I knew it would be since I didn't do the work myself) and they found a few things I didn't know was wrong. First, the tie rods have lost their boots and are running dry - a dangerous situation. I also have a leak in the wheel on the tag - it has ruined the brakes on that side (the rear seal). I also have an air leak somewhere (not affecting much at this point) but still an issue. So, looks like I have a little more work to do. But, I'll feel safer taking it on the road next month with the repairs done.

I also took it to the tire shop because I had the valve stems leaking on three of the tires (one front, one inner dual, one tag). They were all fine and had air on Saturday. By Tuesday, those three were leaking. I worry when my tires aren't quite right since
my life depends on it. But, that was a cheap, easy fix anyways.

Thought I would just share my trip to the shop. I'm sure many of you have gone through the same thing. As I learn more, I'll be able to take on a few more of the chores.

Jerry
85 PT40

[Wayne Kotila]

I think you are correct that the valve cores have a nylon apron seal around the outside of the core and they have another seal on the inside of the core that seals the small passage up the center of the core that opens up when you push the little center pin in with your tire chuck to add air or check the pressure. That is the seal that the silicone lubricates and helps seal.

How long have you owned the 1995 PT42? Do you like the coach?

Wayne

1985 PT40

---

From: Pete Masterson
To: WanderlodgeForum@yahoogroups.com
Sent: Thursday, April 9, 2009 12:22:52 PM
Subject: Re: [WanderlodgeForum] Had my BB checked out $$$$

That's a good idea that hadn't occurred to me. I note, however, that the schrader valve cores seem to have a thin plastic "apron" that makes the final seal. I've noticed that some of the leakers seem to get a crease or partial tear in the plastic.

I also suspect debris of some sort, as simply adding an extra pulse of air (without any lubricant) will sometimes stop a leaker.

The last line of defense is a good cap on the valve stem. Of course, if you get a leak down where the stem connects to the wheel, then you're out of luck. You just have to pull the wheel and tire and replace the stem.

Pete Masterson

'95 Blue Bird Wanderlodge WBDA 42

El Sobrante CA

"aeonix1@mac.com"

On Apr 8, 2009, at 8:26 PM, Wayne Kotila wrote:

Hi, high pressure tires and valve cores leaking after you check your pressure or add air is a frequent problem. When I need to check or add air I always have a can of silicone spray with me. After I take a tire pressure reading if the valve core starts leaking, I spray some silicone on the end of the tire chuck from my air compressor hose and then put it on the valve stem with the leaking valve core and put a shot of air mixed with silicone in. This lubricates the valve seal and it stops leaking, then if the tire was a little lowI can add air and the valve core will seal afterI am done adding air. Silicone is good for rubber seals inside the valve cores and doing thisI haven't replaced a valve core on my 1985 PT40 in allmost 10 years, andmy tires hold their air pressure very well, I have 2 tires that over the winter might loose up to 10 psi.The valve core seals just need a little lubrication.

Wayne

1985 PT40

---

From:Pete Masterson <"aeonix1@mac.com">
To:"WanderlodgeForum@yahoogroups.com"
Sent:Wednesday, April 8, 2009 9:57:45 PM
Subject:Re: [WanderlodgeForum] Had my BB checked out $$$$

Between the higher pressure in the bus tires and debris that might be involved, I've found that the schrader valves have a tendency to not completely seal some times.

1. Get some metal valve caps with rubber seals inside. Check the seals regularly to ensure that they are still there and not damaged.

2. Get a valve wrench and a bunch of the valve cores. Replace the leakers.

I found a vendor on the Internet that seemed to have "good quality" valve cores (they were described as "high temperature" ) and some metal valve caps. They were packaged in bags of 100, but weren't terribly expensive. I bought a bag of each.

I've probably gone through a twenty or more of the valve cores over the past couple of years -- and it's handy when a dropped valve cap disappears far under the coach to just get another one out of the tool box.

Be especially careful of the pass-through valve caps (the ones where you can put air in through the cap). They're usually a recipe for leaks. (Previous owner had them on all tires. I suppose he used 'em because they were also an extension which on my coach is a plus for the steer axle.)

Pete Masterson

'95 Blue Bird Wanderlodge WBDA 42

El Sobrante CA

"aeonix1@mac.com"

On Apr 8, 2009, at 5:16 PM, jburgessx2 wrote:

<snip>
I also took it to the tire shop because I had the valve stems leaking on three of the tires (one front, one inner dual, one tag). They were all fine and had air on Saturday. By Tuesday, those three were leaking. I worry when my tires aren't quite right since my life depends on it. But, that was a cheap, easy fix anyways.

<snip>