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Successful Voyage! [message #318059] Sat, 27 May 2017 13:54 Go to next message
Atom Ant is currently offline  Atom Ant   United States
Messages: 170
Registered: October 2016
Location: Austin, TX
Karma: 0
Senior Member
Hey All-

Just wanted to share that we FINALLY took the GMC out on the road and had a great trip!

From Austin to Garner State Park, about 180 miles each way. I thought I'd skip the potential for stop and go traffic in San Antone by going through Fredricksburg and Johnson City. I didn't realize how hilly and remote that route actually was. If we had broken down we might still be there! I had to drop into lower gear on one hill, everything else was good. On the way back we went through San Antonio, and the route was much, much flatter. Holding 60-65 on the highway no issues. I even passed a 18 wheeler!

A few things, of course. I finally filled the coach up fully. No hesitation, took fuel like a vehicle should. When it finally clicked off, of course I checked under the coach. a small puddle of fuel, 4 inches, dripping from the corner of the front tank, I'm guessing from filling it. I don't know what the issue is, I'll get to it. it's not a continual leak, so I'm supposing an issue with the sender gasket maybe? A loose hose clamp? God I don't want to drop the tanks again.

I do have a exhaust manifold crack, and it can be heard.

I discovered a hole in the exhaust right under the door, so there's that. This beast is loud. In fact, we've officially named her Grendel, the big green grumbling beast that leaves a trail of blood and parts where ever she goes. The water pump is quite loud when it kicks on, and the kids get a kick out of Grendel's grumbling.

Can anyone talk about the city water hook up and any known issues with that? I hooked it up, seemed to be working fine, then noticed that water was pouring out of the hook up, like there was too much pressure, and then the hallway was soaked near the closet. I then just used the tank fill from then on. Seemed to work fine. Thoughts?

Both AC's work almost too well, it got COLD in there. Ran the generator for most of the way there, and for a few hours between having to be out of the campsite and actually leaving the park to keep the fridge cold. Worked like a charm. On the way home we had it on to run the AC unit and then it quit. I'm glad for the low oil switch. It burned a bit.

I think I have an issue with my dump valve no closing completely. a funny thing happened. I ran to fill her up at the gas station right outside the park. It has a very steep drive. As I was leaving, I heard a scrape and looking back, saw the cap to my dump tube and a nice trail of...waste across the road.

I pulled over and ran to grab it and put it back on...then washed my hands for like 10 minutes. I then went to dump and there's a difference between before and after I pug the valve, but it's really hard for me to get the clip back on the handle. Is this normal? Like it's not closing and sealing completely?

All in all a good trip. I was absolutely dreading it, to be honest. Waiting every second for that "sound" or "thump".

Relationships are built on trust. Once I know I can trust her, I'll be a lot more comfortable.

now to get that carpet out!!


















1976 Palm Beach Austin, TX
Re: [GMCnet] Successful Voyage! [message #318062 is a reply to message #318059] Sat, 27 May 2017 14:30 Go to previous messageGo to next message
emerystora is currently offline  emerystora   United States
Messages: 4442
Registered: January 2004
Karma: 13
Senior Member
Your wet carpet is likely caused by water running out the tank vent line.
GM put a short hose on the vent nipple in the top front corner of the tank and ran it upward behind the bathroom wall taped to a vent pipe. When you fill the tank with a hose the tank fills and then the hose pressure forces water up the vent line where it overflows and runs down to run into the carpet.
Years back I had that problem and fixed it by running a small hose from the tank vent outlet to the back wall and over to the drivers wall. My hose fill had a vent nipple on the back of it that I hooked the hose fill. Now I fill until I see water spurting out the vent and the shut of the fill hose.
If you don have a vent nipple in the back of your fill you can drill a small hole and mount a small brass fitting with a hose barn on the inside.

Emery Stora
77 Kingsley
Frederick, CO

> On May 27, 2017, at 12:54 PM, Adam Metzger wrote:
>
> Hey All-
>
> Just wanted to share that we FINALLY took the GMC out on the road and had a great trip!
>
> From Austin to Garner State Park, about 180 miles each way. I thought I'd skip the potential for stop and go traffic in San Antone by going through
> Fredricksburg and Johnson City. I didn't realize how hilly and remote that route actually was. If we had broken down we might still be there! I had
> to drop into lower gear on one hill, everything else was good. On the way back we went through San Antonio, and the route was much, much flatter.
> Holding 60-65 on the highway no issues. I even passed a 18 wheeler!
>
> A few things, of course. I finally filled the coach up fully. No hesitation, took fuel like a vehicle should. When it finally clicked off, of
> course I checked under the coach. a small puddle of fuel, 4 inches, dripping from the corner of the front tank, I'm guessing from filling it. I
> don't know what the issue is, I'll get to it. it's not a continual leak, so I'm supposing an issue with the sender gasket maybe? A loose hose clamp?
> God I don't want to drop the tanks again.
>
> I do have a exhaust manifold crack, and it can be heard.
>
> I discovered a hole in the exhaust right under the door, so there's that. This beast is loud. In fact, we've officially named her Grendel, the big
> green grumbling beast that leaves a trail of blood and parts where ever she goes. The water pump is quite loud when it kicks on, and the kids get a
> kick out of Grendel's grumbling.
>
> Can anyone talk about the city water hook up and any known issues with that? I hooked it up, seemed to be working fine, then noticed that water was
> pouring out of the hook up, like there was too much pressure, and then the hallway was soaked near the closet. I then just used the tank fill from
> then on. Seemed to work fine. Thoughts?
>
> Both AC's work almost too well, it got COLD in there. Ran the generator for most of the way there, and for a few hours between having to be out of
> the campsite and actually leaving the park to keep the fridge cold. Worked like a charm. On the way home we had it on to run the AC unit and then it
> quit. I'm glad for the low oil switch. It burned a bit.
>
> I think I have an issue with my dump valve no closing completely. a funny thing happened. I ran to fill her up at the gas station right outside the
> park. It has a very steep drive. As I was leaving, I heard a scrape and looking back, saw the cap to my dump tube and a nice trail of...waste across
> the road.
>
> I pulled over and ran to grab it and put it back on...then washed my hands for like 10 minutes. I then went to dump and there's a difference between
> before and after I pug the valve, but it's really hard for me to get the clip back on the handle. Is this normal? Like it's not closing and sealing
> completely?
>
> All in all a good trip. I was absolutely dreading it, to be honest. Waiting every second for that "sound" or "thump".
>
> Relationships are built on trust. Once I know I can trust her, I'll be a lot more comfortable.
>
> now to get that carpet out!!
>
>
>
>
>
>
>
>
>
>
>
>
>
>
>
>
>
> --
> 1976 Palm Beach
> Austin, TX
>
> _______________________________________________
> GMCnet mailing list
> Unsubscribe or Change List Options:
> http://list.gmcnet.org/mailman/listinfo/gmclist_list.gmcnet.org

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Re: Successful Voyage! [message #318063 is a reply to message #318059] Sat, 27 May 2017 14:46 Go to previous messageGo to next message
Matt Colie is currently offline  Matt Colie   United States
Messages: 8547
Registered: March 2007
Location: S.E. Michigan
Karma: 7
Senior Member
Good to hear you are getting there Adam,

As to your water leak, let's start at the beginning.
Was the water leaking outside? If it was coming out a hole in the inlet fitting, then you may still have the back-flow preventer that was code at the time. I do not think a true replacement is available. It is quite possible that this device got damaged by freezing. Then the next thing you have to do is open up that space in the back of the closet where the entry port is. Put water pressure on the system with the pump. If you do not see the leak there, just don't use the city water connection until you replace that assembly with the newer one that is only a check valve. This will also require some new brass fittings.

If you do see a leak from other than the back-flow preventer, you may have a problem. I almost hate to tell you this, but if your coach has (had) copper potable plumbing, then there us a good chance that someone did not do the winterizing right and the copper that comes in and crosses over to the right side is easily cracked by freezing. If this is the case, you will have to look to others for guidance.

About the dump valve. If it gets closed when the dump is not clear, the old Thetford valves can jam on paper very easily. They still seal pretty well, but the paper jams at the slide edge. Try to find some place that you can dump, rinse and dump again that you will not be inconveniencing a crowd of people wait to dump.

When you get your arms around all the issues, then you can have lots of good times.

Matt


Matt & Mary Colie - Chaumière -'73 Glacier 23 - Members GMCMI, GMCGL, GMCES
Electronically Controlled Quiet Engine Cooling Fan with OE Rear Drum Brakes with Applied Control Arms
SE Michigan - Near DTW - Twixt A2 and Detroit
Re: [GMCnet] Successful Voyage! [message #318065 is a reply to message #318059] Sat, 27 May 2017 14:51 Go to previous messageGo to next message
Ken Henderson is currently offline  Ken Henderson   United States
Messages: 8726
Registered: March 2004
Location: Americus, GA
Karma: 9
Senior Member
Adam,

Congratulations on you and the family's first GMC adventure. Glad it
worked out well.

The small fuel drip at, apparently, near the left front of the aux (front)
tank, is very likely coming from the Liquid-Vapor Separator, or its
plumbing. You probably recall from when you re-plumbed the fuel tanks that
there is a hose from each tank which leads to a tee in the forward end of
the left rear wheel well. From the tee there's another hose up to the
little canister behind the sheet metal shield near the top of the wheel
well. From there, there's another hose leading down and eventually to the
carbon vapor canister on the frame rail beneath the passenger's feet. Any
of that plumbing, with its numerous connections, or the vapor separator
itself, can leak. Usually not badly because there should only be fuel in
those hoses when the tank's completely full+.

The best solution for those sewer line problems? A macerator. With that
installed above the bottom of the frame, you can move the 3" dump connector
to a less accessible/damageable location. Not to mention the many other
benefits, such as eliminating the "stinky slinky".

Ken H.


On Sat, May 27, 2017 at 2:54 PM, Adam Metzger wrote:

> Hey All-
>
> Just wanted to share that we FINALLY took the GMC out on the road and had
> a great trip!
>
> From Austin to Garner State Park, about 180 miles each way. I thought I'd
> skip the potential for stop and go traffic in San Antone by going through
> Fredricksburg and Johnson City. I didn't realize how hilly and remote
> that route actually was. If we had broken down we might still be there! I
> had
> to drop into lower gear on one hill, everything else was good. On the way
> back we went through San Antonio, and the route was much, much flatter.
> Holding 60-65 on the highway no issues. I even passed a 18 wheeler!
>
> A few things, of course. I finally filled the coach up fully. No
> hesitation, took fuel like a vehicle should. When it finally clicked off,
> of
> course I checked under the coach. a small puddle of fuel, 4 inches,
> dripping from the corner of the front tank, I'm guessing from filling it. I
> don't know what the issue is, I'll get to it. it's not a continual leak,
> so I'm supposing an issue with the sender gasket maybe? A loose hose clamp?
> God I don't want to drop the tanks again.
>
> I do have a exhaust manifold crack, and it can be heard.
>
> I discovered a hole in the exhaust right under the door, so there's that.
> This beast is loud. In fact, we've officially named her Grendel, the big
> green grumbling beast that leaves a trail of blood and parts where ever
> she goes. The water pump is quite loud when it kicks on, and the kids get a
> kick out of Grendel's grumbling.
>
> Can anyone talk about the city water hook up and any known issues with
> that? I hooked it up, seemed to be working fine, then noticed that water
> was
> pouring out of the hook up, like there was too much pressure, and then the
> hallway was soaked near the closet. I then just used the tank fill from
> then on. Seemed to work fine. Thoughts?
>
> Both AC's work almost too well, it got COLD in there. Ran the generator
> for most of the way there, and for a few hours between having to be out of
> the campsite and actually leaving the park to keep the fridge cold.
> Worked like a charm. On the way home we had it on to run the AC unit and
> then it
> quit. I'm glad for the low oil switch. It burned a bit.
>
> I think I have an issue with my dump valve no closing completely. a funny
> thing happened. I ran to fill her up at the gas station right outside the
> park. It has a very steep drive. As I was leaving, I heard a scrape and
> looking back, saw the cap to my dump tube and a nice trail of...waste across
> the road.
>
> I pulled over and ran to grab it and put it back on...then washed my hands
> for like 10 minutes. I then went to dump and there's a difference between
> before and after I pug the valve, but it's really hard for me to get the
> clip back on the handle. Is this normal? Like it's not closing and sealing
> completely?
>
> All in all a good trip. I was absolutely dreading it, to be honest.
> Waiting every second for that "sound" or "thump".
>
> Relationships are built on trust. Once I know I can trust her, I'll be a
> lot more comfortable.
>
> now to get that carpet out!!
>
>
>
>
>
>
>
>
>
>
>
>
>
>
>
>
>
> --
> 1976 Palm Beach
> Austin, TX
>
> _______________________________________________
> GMCnet mailing list
> Unsubscribe or Change List Options:
> http://list.gmcnet.org/mailman/listinfo/gmclist_list.gmcnet.org
>
_______________________________________________
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Unsubscribe or Change List Options:
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Ken Henderson
Americus, GA
www.gmcwipersetc.com
Large Wiring Diagrams
76 X-Birchaven
76 X-Palm Beach
Re: [GMCnet] Successful Voyage! [message #318068 is a reply to message #318065] Sat, 27 May 2017 15:30 Go to previous messageGo to next message
emerystora is currently offline  emerystora   United States
Messages: 4442
Registered: January 2004
Karma: 13
Senior Member
I had responded assuming that you were filling the tank using a hose into the fill spout. Matt responded assuming that you were hooking up a hose to the city water hose fitting.
I'm not sure which you were doing but you now have two things to check out.

Emery Stora

> On May 27, 2017, at 1:51 PM, Ken Henderson wrote:
>
> Adam,
>
> Congratulations on you and the family's first GMC adventure. Glad it
> worked out well.
>
> The small fuel drip at, apparently, near the left front of the aux (front)
> tank, is very likely coming from the Liquid-Vapor Separator, or its
> plumbing. You probably recall from when you re-plumbed the fuel tanks that
> there is a hose from each tank which leads to a tee in the forward end of
> the left rear wheel well. From the tee there's another hose up to the
> little canister behind the sheet metal shield near the top of the wheel
> well. From there, there's another hose leading down and eventually to the
> carbon vapor canister on the frame rail beneath the passenger's feet. Any
> of that plumbing, with its numerous connections, or the vapor separator
> itself, can leak. Usually not badly because there should only be fuel in
> those hoses when the tank's completely full+.
>
> The best solution for those sewer line problems? A macerator. With that
> installed above the bottom of the frame, you can move the 3" dump connector
> to a less accessible/damageable location. Not to mention the many other
> benefits, such as eliminating the "stinky slinky".
>
> Ken H.
>
>
>> On Sat, May 27, 2017 at 2:54 PM, Adam Metzger wrote:
>>
>> Hey All-
>>
>> Just wanted to share that we FINALLY took the GMC out on the road and had
>> a great trip!
>>
>> From Austin to Garner State Park, about 180 miles each way. I thought I'd
>> skip the potential for stop and go traffic in San Antone by going through
>> Fredricksburg and Johnson City. I didn't realize how hilly and remote
>> that route actually was. If we had broken down we might still be there! I
>> had
>> to drop into lower gear on one hill, everything else was good. On the way
>> back we went through San Antonio, and the route was much, much flatter.
>> Holding 60-65 on the highway no issues. I even passed a 18 wheeler!
>>
>> A few things, of course. I finally filled the coach up fully. No
>> hesitation, took fuel like a vehicle should. When it finally clicked off,
>> of
>> course I checked under the coach. a small puddle of fuel, 4 inches,
>> dripping from the corner of the front tank, I'm guessing from filling it. I
>> don't know what the issue is, I'll get to it. it's not a continual leak,
>> so I'm supposing an issue with the sender gasket maybe? A loose hose clamp?
>> God I don't want to drop the tanks again.
>>
>> I do have a exhaust manifold crack, and it can be heard.
>>
>> I discovered a hole in the exhaust right under the door, so there's that.
>> This beast is loud. In fact, we've officially named her Grendel, the big
>> green grumbling beast that leaves a trail of blood and parts where ever
>> she goes. The water pump is quite loud when it kicks on, and the kids get a
>> kick out of Grendel's grumbling.
>>
>> Can anyone talk about the city water hook up and any known issues with
>> that? I hooked it up, seemed to be working fine, then noticed that water
>> was
>> pouring out of the hook up, like there was too much pressure, and then the
>> hallway was soaked near the closet. I then just used the tank fill from
>> then on. Seemed to work fine. Thoughts?
>>
>> Both AC's work almost too well, it got COLD in there. Ran the generator
>> for most of the way there, and for a few hours between having to be out of
>> the campsite and actually leaving the park to keep the fridge cold.
>> Worked like a charm. On the way home we had it on to run the AC unit and
>> then it
>> quit. I'm glad for the low oil switch. It burned a bit.
>>
>> I think I have an issue with my dump valve no closing completely. a funny
>> thing happened. I ran to fill her up at the gas station right outside the
>> park. It has a very steep drive. As I was leaving, I heard a scrape and
>> looking back, saw the cap to my dump tube and a nice trail of...waste across
>> the road.
>>
>> I pulled over and ran to grab it and put it back on...then washed my hands
>> for like 10 minutes. I then went to dump and there's a difference between
>> before and after I pug the valve, but it's really hard for me to get the
>> clip back on the handle. Is this normal? Like it's not closing and sealing
>> completely?
>>
>> All in all a good trip. I was absolutely dreading it, to be honest.
>> Waiting every second for that "sound" or "thump".
>>
>> Relationships are built on trust. Once I know I can trust her, I'll be a
>> lot more comfortable.
>>
>> now to get that carpet out!!
>>
>>
>>
>>
>>
>>
>>
>>
>>
>>
>>
>>
>>
>>
>>
>>
>>
>> --
>> 1976 Palm Beach
>> Austin, TX
>>
>> _______________________________________________
>> GMCnet mailing list
>> Unsubscribe or Change List Options:
>> http://list.gmcnet.org/mailman/listinfo/gmclist_list.gmcnet.org
>>
> _______________________________________________
> GMCnet mailing list
> Unsubscribe or Change List Options:
> http://list.gmcnet.org/mailman/listinfo/gmclist_list.gmcnet.org

_______________________________________________
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Unsubscribe or Change List Options:
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Re: [GMCnet] Successful Voyage! [message #318069 is a reply to message #318068] Sat, 27 May 2017 15:44 Go to previous messageGo to next message
Atom Ant is currently offline  Atom Ant   United States
Messages: 170
Registered: October 2016
Location: Austin, TX
Karma: 0
Senior Member
I had originally connected to the city water, and it seemed fine at first, then there was water coming out of the hose attachment, spraying out, like there was too much pressure. I then just filled at the potable water point and it worked fine. I would rather use the city water point if possible, just for ease.

emerystora wrote on Sat, 27 May 2017 15:30
I had responded assuming that you were filling the tank using a hose into the fill spout. Matt responded assuming that you were hooking up a hose to the city water hose fitting.
I'm not sure which you were doing but you now have two things to check out.

Emery Stora

> On May 27, 2017, at 1:51 PM, Ken Henderson wrote:
>
> Adam,
>
> Congratulations on you and the family's first GMC adventure. Glad it
> worked out well.
>
> The small fuel drip at, apparently, near the left front of the aux (front)
> tank, is very likely coming from the Liquid-Vapor Separator, or its
> plumbing. You probably recall from when you re-plumbed the fuel tanks that
> there is a hose from each tank which leads to a tee in the forward end of
> the left rear wheel well. From the tee there's another hose up to the
> little canister behind the sheet metal shield near the top of the wheel
> well. From there, there's another hose leading down and eventually to the
> carbon vapor canister on the frame rail beneath the passenger's feet. Any
> of that plumbing, with its numerous connections, or the vapor separator
> itself, can leak. Usually not badly because there should only be fuel in
> those hoses when the tank's completely full+.
>
> The best solution for those sewer line problems? A macerator. With that
> installed above the bottom of the frame, you can move the 3" dump connector
> to a less accessible/damageable location. Not to mention the many other
> benefits, such as eliminating the "stinky slinky".
>
> Ken H.
>
>
>> On Sat, May 27, 2017 at 2:54 PM, Adam Metzger wrote:
>>
>> Hey All-
>>
>> Just wanted to share that we FINALLY took the GMC out on the road and had
>> a great trip!
>>
>> From Austin to Garner State Park, about 180 miles each way. I thought I'd
>> skip the potential for stop and go traffic in San Antone by going through
>> Fredricksburg and Johnson City. I didn't realize how hilly and remote
>> that route actually was. If we had broken down we might still be there! I
>> had
>> to drop into lower gear on one hill, everything else was good. On the way
>> back we went through San Antonio, and the route was much, much flatter.
>> Holding 60-65 on the highway no issues. I even passed a 18 wheeler!
>>
>> A few things, of course. I finally filled the coach up fully. No
>> hesitation, took fuel like a vehicle should. When it finally clicked off,
>> of
>> course I checked under the coach. a small puddle of fuel, 4 inches,
>> dripping from the corner of the front tank, I'm guessing from filling it. I
>> don't know what the issue is, I'll get to it. it's not a continual leak,
>> so I'm supposing an issue with the sender gasket maybe? A loose hose clamp?
>> God I don't want to drop the tanks again.
>>
>> I do have a exhaust manifold crack, and it can be heard.
>>
>> I discovered a hole in the exhaust right under the door, so there's that.
>> This beast is loud. In fact, we've officially named her Grendel, the big
>> green grumbling beast that leaves a trail of blood and parts where ever
>> she goes. The water pump is quite loud when it kicks on, and the kids get a
>> kick out of Grendel's grumbling.
>>
>> Can anyone talk about the city water hook up and any known issues with
>> that? I hooked it up, seemed to be working fine, then noticed that water
>> was
>> pouring out of the hook up, like there was too much pressure, and then the
>> hallway was soaked near the closet. I then just used the tank fill from
>> then on. Seemed to work fine. Thoughts?
>>
>> Both AC's work almost too well, it got COLD in there. Ran the generator
>> for most of the way there, and for a few hours between having to be out of
>> the campsite and actually leaving the park to keep the fridge cold.
>> Worked like a charm. On the way home we had it on to run the AC unit and
>> then it
>> quit. I'm glad for the low oil switch. It burned a bit.
>>
>> I think I have an issue with my dump valve no closing completely. a funny
>> thing happened. I ran to fill her up at the gas station right outside the
>> park. It has a very steep drive. As I was leaving, I heard a scrape and
>> looking back, saw the cap to my dump tube and a nice trail of...waste across
>> the road.
>>
>> I pulled over and ran to grab it and put it back on...then washed my hands
>> for like 10 minutes. I then went to dump and there's a difference between
>> before and after I pug the valve, but it's really hard for me to get the
>> clip back on the handle. Is this normal? Like it's not closing and sealing
>> completely?
>>
>> All in all a good trip. I was absolutely dreading it, to be honest.
>> Waiting every second for that "sound" or "thump".
>>
>> Relationships are built on trust. Once I know I can trust her, I'll be a
>> lot more comfortable.
>>
>> now to get that carpet out!!
>>
>>
>>
>>
>>
>>
>>
>>
>>
>>
>>
>>
>>
>>
>>
>>
>>
>> --
>> 1976 Palm Beach
>> Austin, TX
>>
>> _______________________________________________
>> GMCnet mailing list
>> Unsubscribe or Change List Options:
>> http://list.gmcnet.org/mailman/listinfo/gmclist_list.gmcnet.org
>>
> _______________________________________________
> GMCnet mailing list
> Unsubscribe or Change List Options:
> http://list.gmcnet.org/mailman/listinfo/gmclist_list.gmcnet.org

_______________________________________________
GMCnet mailing list
Unsubscribe or Change List Options:
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1976 Palm Beach Austin, TX
Re: [GMCnet] Successful Voyage! [message #318070 is a reply to message #318065] Sat, 27 May 2017 15:46 Go to previous messageGo to next message
Atom Ant is currently offline  Atom Ant   United States
Messages: 170
Registered: October 2016
Location: Austin, TX
Karma: 0
Senior Member
Hi Ken-

The fuel was definitely dripping off the top corner of the tank. I'll check again in closer detail soon. I was a little heart broken, to be honest. but, onward and upward.

Stinky Slinky!



Ken Henderson wrote on Sat, 27 May 2017 14:51
Adam,

Congratulations on you and the family's first GMC adventure. Glad it
worked out well.

The small fuel drip at, apparently, near the left front of the aux (front)
tank, is very likely coming from the Liquid-Vapor Separator, or its
plumbing. You probably recall from when you re-plumbed the fuel tanks that
there is a hose from each tank which leads to a tee in the forward end of
the left rear wheel well. From the tee there's another hose up to the
little canister behind the sheet metal shield near the top of the wheel
well. From there, there's another hose leading down and eventually to the
carbon vapor canister on the frame rail beneath the passenger's feet. Any
of that plumbing, with its numerous connections, or the vapor separator
itself, can leak. Usually not badly because there should only be fuel in
those hoses when the tank's completely full+.

The best solution for those sewer line problems? A macerator. With that
installed above the bottom of the frame, you can move the 3" dump connector
to a less accessible/damageable location. Not to mention the many other
benefits, such as eliminating the "stinky slinky".

Ken H.


On Sat, May 27, 2017 at 2:54 PM, Adam Metzger wrote:

> Hey All-
>
> Just wanted to share that we FINALLY took the GMC out on the road and had
> a great trip!
>
> From Austin to Garner State Park, about 180 miles each way. I thought I'd
> skip the potential for stop and go traffic in San Antone by going through
> Fredricksburg and Johnson City. I didn't realize how hilly and remote
> that route actually was. If we had broken down we might still be there! I
> had
> to drop into lower gear on one hill, everything else was good. On the way
> back we went through San Antonio, and the route was much, much flatter.
> Holding 60-65 on the highway no issues. I even passed a 18 wheeler!
>
> A few things, of course. I finally filled the coach up fully. No
> hesitation, took fuel like a vehicle should. When it finally clicked off,
> of
> course I checked under the coach. a small puddle of fuel, 4 inches,
> dripping from the corner of the front tank, I'm guessing from filling it. I
> don't know what the issue is, I'll get to it. it's not a continual leak,
> so I'm supposing an issue with the sender gasket maybe? A loose hose clamp?
> God I don't want to drop the tanks again.
>
> I do have a exhaust manifold crack, and it can be heard.
>
> I discovered a hole in the exhaust right under the door, so there's that.
> This beast is loud. In fact, we've officially named her Grendel, the big
> green grumbling beast that leaves a trail of blood and parts where ever
> she goes. The water pump is quite loud when it kicks on, and the kids get a
> kick out of Grendel's grumbling.
>
> Can anyone talk about the city water hook up and any known issues with
> that? I hooked it up, seemed to be working fine, then noticed that water
> was
> pouring out of the hook up, like there was too much pressure, and then the
> hallway was soaked near the closet. I then just used the tank fill from
> then on. Seemed to work fine. Thoughts?
>
> Both AC's work almost too well, it got COLD in there. Ran the generator
> for most of the way there, and for a few hours between having to be out of
> the campsite and actually leaving the park to keep the fridge cold.
> Worked like a charm. On the way home we had it on to run the AC unit and
> then it
> quit. I'm glad for the low oil switch. It burned a bit.
>
> I think I have an issue with my dump valve no closing completely. a funny
> thing happened. I ran to fill her up at the gas station right outside the
> park. It has a very steep drive. As I was leaving, I heard a scrape and
> looking back, saw the cap to my dump tube and a nice trail of...waste across
> the road.
>
> I pulled over and ran to grab it and put it back on...then washed my hands
> for like 10 minutes. I then went to dump and there's a difference between
> before and after I pug the valve, but it's really hard for me to get the
> clip back on the handle. Is this normal? Like it's not closing and sealing
> completely?
>
> All in all a good trip. I was absolutely dreading it, to be honest.
> Waiting every second for that "sound" or "thump".
>
> Relationships are built on trust. Once I know I can trust her, I'll be a
> lot more comfortable.
>
> now to get that carpet out!!
>
>
>
>
>
>
>
>
>
>
>
>
>
>
>
>
>
> --
> 1976 Palm Beach
> Austin, TX
>
> _______________________________________________
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1976 Palm Beach Austin, TX
Re: [GMCnet] Successful Voyage! [message #318071 is a reply to message #318059] Sat, 27 May 2017 16:05 Go to previous messageGo to next message
Richard Denney is currently offline  Richard Denney   United States
Messages: 920
Registered: April 2010
Karma: 9
Senior Member
I took the liberty of paraphrasing the quote.

If these little problems didn't keep you from declaring success, then I
predict many happy years with your GMC.

First priority: Fix the exhaust leaks. Jetting exhaust is hot and
destructive. And poisonous. It can burn through wires, char the floor, that
sort of thing.

The fuel tank drip is easy--don't try to fill it full. My fuel tank is
bigger than my bladder even at 8 mpg. You might find the next time it
doesn't go quite so full when you fill it anyway--you'll have fuel in the
vent line that will slow things down a bit. Mine leaks usually in the first
fillup--everything is dry--but in my case I suspect a leaky sender; I know
both are old and suspect. I have new ones ready to install, but I'm no more
enthusiastic about dropping the tanks than you are. Gotta do it, though.
The fill tubes I installed in 2004 are now rotted.

The leak in the city water connection has several possible causes, as you
have read. My recommendation is: don't use it. Just work off your tank,
refilling as needed. Here's why: a leak when working off your tank is a
30-gallon problem. A leak when on city water may be a thousand gallons if
you aren't at the coach when it occurs. City water is often at 80 psi, but
your pump will be more like 30, so blowing a fitting is less likely in the
first place. That strategy allows you to defer that problem, too, if it is
leak-free when not on city water.

The Onan can be a hobby in and of itself. I'll say no more.

When I bought my coach, a wise old GMCer listed a few essentials. One was a
set of shrader valves for the bags, which I have somewhere. The other was a
macerator. That is worth buying and installing right from the start. A
different old GMCer has given the same advice--you'll thank yourself for
listening.

They make rubber gloves for chemical workers that come nearly to the elbow.
That's the minimum I will use when dealing with the stinky slinky. But my
20 feet of semi-permanently attached industrial-grade full-diameter 3/4"
macerator hose lives in its own PVC pipe strapped to the bottom of the
coach, and its gasketed brass screw cap keeps all that clean.

So, the exhaust is the only thing really requiring attention.

There's nothing like a nice drive in the hill country! I'm surprised Garner
wasn't overcrowded--I never could get reservations there if I didn't work
far in advance.

Rick "who lived in Austin and San Antonio for a dozen years, before the
GMC, though" Denney



On Sat, May 27, 2017 at 3:01 PM Adam Metzger wrote:

> Hey All-
>
> Just wanted to share that we FINALLY took the GMC out on the road and had
> a great trip!
>
> ...Nice drive through the Texas Hill Country.
>
> ...Small drip from the front tank when all the way filled.
>
> ...I do have a exhaust manifold crack, and it can be heard. I discovered a
> hole in the exhaust right under the door, so there's that...


> ...Loud water pump.
> ...Leak in the city water connection.
>
> ...Genset worked well until it didn't, and was low on oil.
>
> ...Backend is low and 3" dump cover is vulnerable.


>
> ...Thetford valve is unreliable and what it holds back is disgusting.
>
> All in all a good trip. I was absolutely dreading it, to be honest.
> Waiting every second for that "sound" or "thump".
>
> Relationships are built on trust.
>
--
Rick Denney
73 x-Glacier 230 "Jaws"
Off-list email to rick at rickdenney dot com
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Re: Successful Voyage! [message #318075 is a reply to message #318059] Sat, 27 May 2017 17:06 Go to previous messageGo to next message
lqqkatjon is currently offline  lqqkatjon   United States
Messages: 2324
Registered: October 2010
Location: St. Cloud, MN
Karma: 5
Senior Member
Not sure if you said if you replaced all fuel lines yet. The coach i just did that to, it was the vent hose where it connected to tank. There is some tension on that and it was craccked right at the hose clamp. I hate to say, but if fuel is leaking from top of tank it probably has to come down. I personally doubt it is the sender itself leaking unless it was you who changed
Them
Out. Factory ones i have dealt with Re sealed super well and it is the hoses that leak. But like stated above, just dont fill to top.


Exhaust manifold may not be cracked. Might just need new gasket,
But that is a luck of the draw type thing. My driver side i changed once with no problems. My passenger side has seen a half dozen different and new gaskets. I am pretty certain it is the head that is the problem. I can get 3000-5000 miles on a exhaist manifold remflex, so the last 2-3 times i just change it wuick when I hear it leak.


no idea on plumbing leak. But find that before it does damage.


Jon Roche 75 palm beach EBL EFI, manny headers, Micro Level, rebuilt most of coach now. St. Cloud, MN http://lqqkatjon.blogspot.com/
Re: [GMCnet] Successful Voyage! [message #318080 is a reply to message #318069] Sat, 27 May 2017 19:50 Go to previous messageGo to next message
Matt Colie is currently offline  Matt Colie   United States
Messages: 8547
Registered: March 2007
Location: S.E. Michigan
Karma: 7
Senior Member
Atom Ant wrote on Sat, 27 May 2017 16:44
I had originally connected to the city water, and it seemed fine at first, then there was water coming out of the hose attachment, spraying out, like there was too much pressure. I then just filled at the potable water point and it worked fine. I would rather use the city water point if possible, just for ease.

Adam,

First, Emery is one of our family's Senior Mentors....
What ever he writes, take it to heart.

Now, filling the coach water tank and running pump is a good idea. And for many reasons.
(A short aside: You do know not to leave the dump valve open - right?)
A little story (I have lots of these because I listen to other people's mistakes).
There was a man (known to me, but shall remain nameless) that had a two year old 5er. He hated running the onboard pump for potable water and his wife would not go anyplace that was not FHU (Full Hook Up -Electric, Water and Sewer). They set the 5er in a site and were there a few days (not enough to merit dumping the black tank) and the took the TV (Tow Vehicle used when you aren't fortunate enough to have a GMC) to see some sites. While they were gone and nobody knows how, the tap in the bathroom started running. In his unit, all the bathroom and shower went into the black tank. So, when the level in the black tank reach the sill of the shower door, the contents rolled out onto the floor of the entire unit. They came back after dinner and were greeted by water running out of the 5er just about everywhere. It was not clean water. They didn't stay in it that night. The next day they took it to the dealership. They would not even quote. His insurance wrote it off.

Moral:
Run the pump.....
Among other things, you can use the tank volume to tell you when you should dump the black tank. Level gauges for black tanks are unreliable.
It is also helpful if you have others aboard that are not into water conservation. The alarm lets you know Who/When.
Traveling with water in the potable tank means you will have water should you need it. Mine is always pressed up at departure.

Also:
If you are going to hook up directly to city water, you should have a pressure regulator. Many times we have run into city water at 80+psi. You should also see what it takes to repair your city water inlet fitting so it does not leak so. Oh, and if you are on city water, turn it off if/when you are leaving the coach for any time.

Matt


Matt & Mary Colie - Chaumière -'73 Glacier 23 - Members GMCMI, GMCGL, GMCES
Electronically Controlled Quiet Engine Cooling Fan with OE Rear Drum Brakes with Applied Control Arms
SE Michigan - Near DTW - Twixt A2 and Detroit
Re: Successful Voyage! [message #318092 is a reply to message #318059] Sun, 28 May 2017 07:58 Go to previous message
RF_Burns is currently offline  RF_Burns   Canada
Messages: 2276
Registered: June 2008
Location: S. Ontario, Canada
Karma: 3
Senior Member
I also had a small leak from the top of the forward tank after filling. I thought it would be the seal for the tank sender but it turned out to be the vapour vent for the charcoal canister. I found it by plugging all the holes and adding just a touch of air pressure. Soapy water soon showed the leak.

http://www.gmcmhphotos.com/photos/fuel-tank-lines/p61899-fuel-tank-lines.html

I pulled out the existing vent port and tapped the hole for a brass replacement (use some grease on the tap to catch the metal bits). Some J-B weld to seal it and I've had no more problems.

http://www.gmcmhphotos.com/photos/fuel-tank-lines/p61894-fuel-tank-lines.html

I also vote for using the water tank and pump. When your water tank gets low, its time to empty the black tank. Also if you hear the pump run randomly when you are not using water, chances are you have a small leak in your plumbing.


Bruce Hislop
ON Canada
77PB, 455 Dick P. rebuilt, DynamicEFI EBL EFI & ESC.
1 ton front end
http://www.gmcmhphotos.com/photos/showphoto.php?photo=29001
My Staff says I never listen to them, or something like that
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