Home » Public Forums » GMCnet » Re: [GMCnet] Stories of GM people that made our coaches?
| Re: [GMCnet] Stories of GM people that made our coaches? [message #232809] |
Tue, 10 December 2013 10:18  |
 |
hnielsen2
Messages: 1434
Registered: February 2004
Location: Alpine CA
Karma: 0
|
Senior Member |
|
|
Chris
That is a wonderful idea.
Thank You
Howard
Alpine Ca
74 Canyon Lands
All is well with my Lord
> On Dec 10, 2013, at 8:07, Chris lightfoot <Clightfoot09@gmail.com> wrote:
>
>
>
> So I am curious to see what is known about the group of people involved in the design and production of these coaches.
>
> I personally would like to meet/talk/watch a video or hear about some of the people that were involved in the production 40 years ago. What was the mindset and the background process that the GM workers went through.I realize many are older or gone, but I wanted to see what people have found or neat stories associated with this GMC creation.
>
> JW if anyone info or stories in this area, and has anyone worked on some of the production lines and that sort of stuff.
>
> Thanks
> -C
> --
> Chris Lightfoot
> New GMC enthusiast working with a '73 palm beach.
> Talladega AL
> _______________________________________________
> GMCnet mailing list
> Unsubscribe or Change List Options:
> http://temp.gmcnet.org/cgi-bin/mailman/listinfo/gmclist
_______________________________________________
GMCnet mailing list
Unsubscribe or Change List Options:
http://temp.gmcnet.org/cgi-bin/mailman/listinfo/gmclist
All is well with my Lord
|
|
|
|
| Re: [GMCnet] Stories of GM people that made our coaches? [message #232822 is a reply to message #232809] |
Tue, 10 December 2013 13:24  |
mrgmc3
Messages: 210
Registered: September 2013
Location: W Washington
Karma: 2
|
Senior Member |
|
|
As a former GM employee I do not have any firsthand knowledge of the motorhome side of the business. I was a powertrain guy from '85-'05 so the GMC production had ended 7 years before I got there. In my current position my current boss is a former Truck & Coach Div engineer. When he was a coop student he shuttled GMC Motorhomes to an up fitter. I am slowly trying to download info from him as he is not too interested in discussing it. I am uncertain if this "shuttling" was to Gemini during '73-'74 when they were doing all of the interiors or if this was later and involved Coachman, Midas, etc.
Chris Geils - Twin Cities / W Wa
1978 26' Kingsley w/ very few mods; PD9040, aux trans cooler, one repaint in stock colors, R134a, Al rad, Alcoas, 54k mi
|
|
|
|
| Re: [GMCnet] Stories of GM people that made our coaches? [message #232824 is a reply to message #232822] |
Tue, 10 December 2013 13:51 |
Don A
Messages: 895
Registered: October 2008
Location: Dallas, TX
Karma: 0
|
Senior Member |
|
|
Seems like some of those DVD's would make a interesting session at a GMCMI convention.
I wonder if Bill Bryant or Bob de Kruyff could be persuaded to come and do a little talk?
Of course Emery or David Greenberg could also give history of their early adventures.
Don Adams Dallas, TX
'76 26' Glenbrook, '90 Sidekick
rebuilt by R Archer, powered by J Bounds, Koba
[IMG]http://www.gmcmhphotos.com/photos/data/6109/G2.jpg[/IMG]
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
| Re: [GMCnet] Stories of GM people that made our coaches? [message #232837 is a reply to message #232827] |
Tue, 10 December 2013 16:33 |
bryant374
Messages: 563
Registered: May 2004
Location: Pleasant Valley, NY 12569
Karma: 1
|
Senior Member |
|
|
Really GREAT to hear someone wants to hear about the history of the GMC MH.
Guess its time to jump in here. For you "old timers" this is old news, but there appear to be a number of newbies that haven't heard this, so here goes.
I got interested in the GMC MH history in the late 1980s - early 1990s and began collecting everything assosiated with the GMC. Little did I know how much interesting stuff was out there. Check some of bdubs photo sites for "wbryant".
Where did the information come from:
I have ~40 cassettes of interviews with GMC Designers, Engineers, Stylists & workers. These were the key people who made the GMC MH what it is. I got several of them to attend GMCMI Conventions, John Locklin (Body Engineer) @ Titusville, FL, Ralph Merkle (chassis Engineer) and Nancy Bundra (originally Secretary to Kurt Stubenvoll, head of the MH group) and later Engineer in charge of MH HVAC to Marion, NC, Michael Lathers (Chief Designer-GMC Truck Studio & GM Design Staff)@ Rayne, LA.
Long time GMCMI member Alex Birch (Head of the Experimental Shop GMC) attended many GMCMI conventions and gave many great seminars and stories (anyone remember hoya-hoya?) By the way, I asked Alex whether Coachmen's Birchaven model was named after him, his reply was a chuckle and, "I guess not".
A number of these folks have passed and my desire back then was to find as much first hand information as possible before that information was gone for all time, I got much of it, know I missed some and that bugs me.
At GMCMI rallies I suggested we hold 25th anniversaries for each model year 1973 thru 1978 (still have the proposal somewhere). We judged for, best original & Members choice, gave the anniversary years special parking, recognizing at meetings, we all had a ball. Also posted on the bulletin board each anniversary years sales brochures, advertisments and other literature. For a number of years I brought part of my GMC MH collectables to display at the conventions. The last one was at DuQuoin, IL. Hope I can get back to attending rallies again.
As just a quick list of what is /was available: 50 different GMC MH sales brochures, over 70 different GMC MH HotWheels, 3 different Barbie GMC MHs, hess MH, frisbees, belt buckles, pins, pens, posters, clothing, you get the idea 
information out there:
FMCA Magazine 2004 Feb, Mar & April GMC articles
CD "GMC Motorhome, from beginning to end" (History) see Applied web site.
DVD "GMC Motorhome, Mini Theatre Films" (13 original GMC showroom films) see Applied web site.
DVD "Workprint" Early development of the GMC Motorhome from 11-70 to 3-71 (starts with pie wagon- ends with RV-26 clay model) available from me ($25 includes postage)
Got questions, just ask,
Bill
Bill Bryant
PO 1976~PB (owned 34 years)
1914 Ford (owned 70 years)
1965 Corvette (owned 39 years)
GMC Motorhome History
|
|
|
|
| Re: [GMCnet] Stories of GM people that made our coaches? [message #232842 is a reply to message #232837] |
Tue, 10 December 2013 17:04 |
rjw
Messages: 697
Registered: September 2005
Karma: 4
|
Senior Member |
|
|
| bryant374 wrote on Tue, 10 December 2013 17:33 |
information out there:
FMCA Magazine 2004 Feb, Mar & April GMC articles
CD "GMC Motorhome, from beginning to end" (History) see Applied web site.
DVD "GMC Motorhome, Mini Theatre Films" (13 original GMC showroom films) see Applied web site.
DVD "Workprint" Early development of the GMC Motorhome from 11-70 to 3-71 (starts with pie wagon- ends with RV-26 clay model) available from me ($25 includes postage)
Got questions, just ask,
Bill
|
Bill,
I can't believe that it's been almost 10 years since you wrote those excellent articles for the FMCA magazine. It seems to me that it was just a year or so ago. I have all three issues, the complete magazines, in my book case that is devoted to GMC. I also have all the DVDs and CD that you published. I hope you do more and I would certainly buy them. Great service to the GMC community.
Richard
76 Palm Beach
SE Michigan
www.PalmBeachGMC.com
Roller Cam 455, TBI+EBL, 3.42 FD, 4 Bag, Macerator, Lenzi (brakes, vacuum system, front end stuff), Manny Tranny, vacuum step, Tankless + OEM water heaters.
|
|
|
|
|
|
| Re: [GMCnet] Stories of GM people that made our coaches? [message #232848 is a reply to message #232837] |
Tue, 10 December 2013 17:31 |
 |
Richard RV
Messages: 631
Registered: July 2012
Location: Full-timer for 12 years, ...
Karma: -17
|
Senior Member |
|
|
| bryant374 wrote on Tue, 10 December 2013 15:33 |
Really GREAT to hear someone wants to hear about the history of the GMC MH.
|
Hello, Bill. How about starting a biweekly or monthly series of posts with anecdotes, history and a trivia contest? It would be enjoyable year round and it'd certainly help pass this early onslaught winter!
| Quote: |
A number of these folks have passed and my desire back then was to find as much first hand information as possible before that information was gone for all time, I got much of it, know I missed some and that bugs me.
|
I hear Ted Williams was kind of bugged that he only hit .406 that year.
| Quote: |
At GMCMI rallies I suggested we hold 25th anniversaries for each model year 1973 thru 1978 (still have the proposal somewhere). We judged for, best original & Members choice, gave the anniversary years special parking, recognizing at meetings, we all had a ball. Also posted on the bulletin board each anniversary years sales brochures, advertisments and other literature. For a number of years I brought part of my GMC MH collectables to display at the conventions. The last one was at DuQuoin, IL. Hope I can get back to attending rallies again.
|
I would love to see some more of the friendly competition for Best of Show GMCs. Best overall, best amateur restomod, best original, most innovative, etc.
| Quote: |
CD "GMC Motorhome, from beginning to end" (History) see Applied web site.
DVD "GMC Motorhome, Mini Theatre Films" (13 original GMC showroom films) see Applied web site.
DVD "Workprint" Early development of the GMC Motorhome from 11-70 to 3-71 (starts with pie wagon- ends with RV-26 clay model) available from me ($25 includes postage)
|
I've been savoring your oeuvre, Bill. I watched the Workprint the night I received it in the mail. I'm almost through the Mini Theatre films (nearly broke the computer back and pause buttons watching those!). I'll peruse the History CD over the winter and steal...err...work on ideas for my coach.
Thanks again for the effort and scholarship.
Richard
PS Should I private message you about getting the answers to the trivia questions ahead of time...? 
'77 Birchaven TZE...777;
'76 Palm Beach under construction;
‘76 Edgemont waiting its turn
|
|
|
|
| Re: [GMCnet] Stories of GM people that made our coaches? [message #232897 is a reply to message #232848] |
Wed, 11 December 2013 14:32 |
Bob Armstrong
Messages: 8
Registered: December 2013
Karma: 0
|
Junior Member |
|
|
Hello GMC'ers,
I am a GMC Coach want to be with a couple questions. I first was introduced
to the GMC Coach when I was 15 yrs old.in "75". My Uncle, who worked for
Pratt - Whitney aircraft engine division drove his GMC Couch from Florida to
Idaho for a visit. What an amazing contraption to witness at that time . . .
nothing short of a space vehicle on wheels driven by an uncle in the jet
engine industry. I will never forget my first impression. Now my wife and I
have retired and looking in to a GMC coach that is larger then our 10 ft
slide on camper we have had for years for our family wild Idaho wilderness
adventures.
Following this forum for a short while has giving me a great deal of
information regarding GMC issues, upgrades and modifications that has been
extremely useful.
Here is my question and or clarification regarding purchasing a GMC.
On the forum a while ago, it was mentioned that a GMC Coach is worth $6000
no mater what. Does that mean those coaches that have been modified,
upgraded including engine rebuilds that are selling for 15 to 30 thousand
are still on paper worth $6000? Is there a RV blue book that is
establishing that price? What will a bank go on of financing a GMC Coach.
Any ideas.
I will continue to monitor this forum, it is quite informative and
intertaining.
Bob Armstrong
GMC - Wanta be
Boise Id
----- Original Message -----
From: "Richard" <GMC77Birchaven@yahoo.com>
To: <gmclist@temp.gmcnet.org>
Sent: Tuesday, December 10, 2013 4:31 PM
Subject: Re: [GMCnet] Stories of GM people that made our coaches?
>
>
> bryant374 wrote on Tue, 10 December 2013 15:33
>> Really GREAT to hear someone wants to hear about the history of the GMC
>> MH.
>
>
> Hello, Bill. How about starting a biweekly or monthly series of posts
> with anecdotes, history and a trivia contest? It would be enjoyable year
> round and it'd certainly help pass this early onslaught winter!
>
> Quote:
>> A number of these folks have passed and my desire back then was to find
>> as much first hand information as possible before that information was
>> gone for all time, I got much of it, know I missed some and that bugs me.
>
>
> I hear Ted Williams was kind of bugged that he only hit .406 that year.
> ;)
>
> Quote:
>> At GMCMI rallies I suggested we hold 25th anniversaries for each model
>> year 1973 thru 1978 (still have the proposal somewhere). We judged for,
>> best original & Members choice, gave the anniversary years special
>> parking, recognizing at meetings, we all had a ball. Also posted on the
>> bulletin board each anniversary years sales brochures, advertisments and
>> other literature. For a number of years I brought part of my GMC MH
>> collectables to display at the conventions. The last one was at DuQuoin,
>> IL. Hope I can get back to attending rallies again.
>
>
> I would love to see some more of the friendly competition for Best of Show
> GMCs. Best overall, best amateur restomod, best original, most
> innovative, etc.
>
> Quote:
>> CD "GMC Motorhome, from beginning to end" (History) see Applied web site.
>>
>> DVD "GMC Motorhome, Mini Theatre Films" (13 original GMC showroom films)
>> see Applied web site.
>>
>> DVD "Workprint" Early development of the GMC Motorhome from 11-70 to 3-71
>> (starts with pie wagon- ends with RV-26 clay model) available from me
>> ($25 includes postage)
>
>
> I've been savoring your oeuvre, Bill. I watched the Workprint the night I
> received it in the mail. I'm almost through the Mini Theatre films
> (nearly broke the computer back and pause buttons watching those!). I'll
> peruse the History CD over the winter and steal...err...work on ideas for
> my coach.
>
> Thanks again for the effort and scholarship.
>
> Richard
>
> PS Should I private message you about getting the answers to the trivia
> questions ahead of time...? :roll:
>
> --
> '77 Birchaven TZE...777
> _______________________________________________
> GMCnet mailing list
> Unsubscribe or Change List Options:
> http://temp.gmcnet.org/cgi-bin/mailman/listinfo/gmclist
>
_______________________________________________
GMCnet mailing list
Unsubscribe or Change List Options:
http://temp.gmcnet.org/cgi-bin/mailman/listinfo/gmclist
|
|
|
|
| Re: [GMCnet] Stories of GM people that made our coaches? [message #232902 is a reply to message #232897] |
Wed, 11 December 2013 15:29 |
 |
USAussie
Messages: 15912
Registered: July 2007
Location: Sydney, Australia
Karma: 6
|
Senior Member |
|
|
Bob,
This forum is a wealth OPINIONS! When someone says a GMC is worth $6000 no matter what that is that person's OPINION. And as the old
saying goes; "opinions are like butt holes, everyone's except your own stinks."
The GMC is not in any "Blue Book" as it's just to old.
It has been noted here on a number of occasions that it is difficult to find a bank to finance a 40 year old motorhome. Perhaps
through a personal loan but as a vehicle it's doubtful.
It sounds like you're looking for a turn key GMC that you can get in and drive across the USA and my OPINION one like that would be
price fairly at point in time at around $15,000.
Regards,
Rob M.
Sydney, Australia
-----Original Message-----
From: Bob Armstrong
Hello GMC'ers,
I am a GMC Coach want to be with a couple questions. I first was introduced
to the GMC Coach when I was 15 yrs old.in "75". My Uncle, who worked for
Pratt - Whitney aircraft engine division drove his GMC Couch from Florida to
Idaho for a visit. What an amazing contraption to witness at that time . . .
nothing short of a space vehicle on wheels driven by an uncle in the jet
engine industry. I will never forget my first impression. Now my wife and I
have retired and looking in to a GMC coach that is larger then our 10 ft
slide on camper we have had for years for our family wild Idaho wilderness
adventures.
Following this forum for a short while has giving me a great deal of
information regarding GMC issues, upgrades and modifications that has been
extremely useful.
Here is my question and or clarification regarding purchasing a GMC.
On the forum a while ago, it was mentioned that a GMC Coach is worth $6000
no mater what. Does that mean those coaches that have been modified,
upgraded including engine rebuilds that are selling for 15 to 30 thousand
are still on paper worth $6000? Is there a RV blue book that is
establishing that price? What will a bank go on of financing a GMC Coach.
Any ideas.
I will continue to monitor this forum, it is quite informative and
intertaining.
Bob Armstrong
GMC - Wanta be
Boise Id
_______________________________________________
GMCnet mailing list
Unsubscribe or Change List Options:
http://temp.gmcnet.org/cgi-bin/mailman/listinfo/gmclist
Regards,
Rob M. (USAussie)
The Pedantic Mechanic
Sydney, Australia
'75 Avion - AUS - The Blue Streak TZE365V100428
'75 Avion - USA - Double Trouble TZE365V100426
|
|
|
|
| Re: [GMCnet] Stories of GM people that made our coaches? [message #232910 is a reply to message #232809] |
Wed, 11 December 2013 19:21 |
Steve
Messages: 506
Registered: September 2013
Location: East Greenville, Pa
Karma: 1
|
Senior Member |
|
|
Bob,
I agree with Bob M.
I think the GMC price range right now is from $0 to $40 thousand. I believe the nicest coach in the country sold this year on Ebay for around $42 thousand and that was an ultra low mileage coach with a recent complete professional true restoration. My coach was on the other end of that range and I am carefully bringing it up to be a safe and reliable coach with minimal investment through lots of sweat equity.
I think about the price points as follows:
$0 to $3 needs tons of work
$4 to $6 you are still looking at making big investments
$7 to $9 you could get a fully functioning coach
$10 to $13 you should get a functioning coach with good cosmetics
$14 and up should should be really nice with rebuild mechanicals and tasteful cosmetic upgrades
Other folks will have differing opinions. I think the sweet spot range is between $10 to $15. At those prices, your previous owner has likely invested quite a bit more than that. He or she got to choose the options and paint. The money is not everything, as the pride and enjoyment is priceless. I take great pride and pleasure in owning a true classic MH. Anyone with a check book or credit rating can own a new MH, but a GMC owner has class and style.
1978 GMC Royal
Eastern Pennslyvania
1968 Chevrolet C20 396 Camper Special
1969 Chevrolet C20 Camper Special
1985 Buick Electra Park Avenue
1992 Camaro 25th Anniversary Heretage Edition Black
|
|
|
|
| Re: [GMCnet] Stories of GM people that made our coaches? [message #232911 is a reply to message #232809] |
Wed, 11 December 2013 19:26 |
JohnL455
Messages: 4447
Registered: October 2006
Location: Woodstock, IL
Karma: 12
|
Senior Member |
|
|
On that note I just got my Jim K appraisal in at $41k. His thinking is based on what it costs to get to that point again in the event of total loss. Not what it would sell for. $6k gets you a good serviceable coach with a long "to do" list including some undoing of a list of things the POs may have thought to he a good idea at the time.
John Lebetski
Woodstock, IL
77 Eleganza II
|
|
|
|
| Re: [GMCnet] Stories of GM people that made our coaches? [message #232930 is a reply to message #232897] |
Thu, 12 December 2013 07:59 |
 |
Matt Colie
Messages: 8547
Registered: March 2007
Location: S.E. Michigan
Karma: 7
|
Senior Member |
|
|
| Bob Armstrong wrote on Wed, 11 December 2013 15:32 |
Hello GMC'ers,
<snip>
Following this forum for a short while has giving me a great deal of information regarding GMC issues, upgrades and modifications that has been extremely useful.
Here is my question and or clarification regarding purchasing a GMC.
On the forum a while ago, it was mentioned that a GMC Coach is worth $6000 no mater what. Does that mean those coaches that have been modified, upgraded including engine rebuilds that are selling for 15 to 30 thousand are still on paper worth $6000? Is there a RV blue book that is establishing that price? What will a bank go on of financing a GMC Coach.
Any ideas.
I will continue to monitor this forum, it is quite informative and intertaining.
Bob Armstrong
GMC - Wanta be
Boise Id
|
Bob,
I think you have missed a line or two (twenty)....
Any running coach is worth about 6K$. Meaning if it can be started by itself and driven away. (Distance is not a factor.)
One of the standard lines everybody here is very familiar with and most will agree with is..
A GMC ready for reliable travel will cost about 25K$ - all at once or as a kit....
If you get it for 6k$, expect to put more into it - soon and the more along the way. When you find you are confident that you can take it anyplace any time, you will be about there.
I can tell you what mine cost. Yes, I bought the coach for a lot less than that, but I have put a lot more than that into it. And yes, we did near 12k miles last year and we had to replace the voltage regulator in the alternator (20$ installed).
They can be as reliable as anything built last year, but it requires diligence on the owner's part to keep them that way. (Just like the Itasca built last year.)
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
|
|
|
|
| [GMCnet] Value of a GMC (was stories of GM people that Š [message #232933 is a reply to message #232897] |
Thu, 12 December 2013 08:48 |
|
|
OK. Let's get this on a separate track.
Here's my own experience.
In 2007 we bought a 1978 Royale (dry rear bath, upfitted by Coachman). It
had been repainted. The interior was original (heard to wear out nylon
upholstery). My wife and I flew from Louisville to Charleston, SC to look it
over and drive it home (should have bought a round trip ticket). At any
rate, for just under 18K in 2007 we had a GMC -- my dream for several years.
It stunk all the way home and rode like a true log wagon (not a pie wagon on
three axles). Martha thought sure I had taken leave of my senses. OK. So, we
get the carburetor rebuilt -- things are better -- then get all the bolts in
on the exhaust manifold on the right as well as a new gasket (that 403 could
go through gaskets like Grant through Richmond). OK. It's in good enough
shape to take a trip from Louisville to the Outer Banks in 2008.
We spent nearly 14 - 15K paying others to put in a new ceiling, redo the
kitchen counter, appliances, rear bath fixtures, complete reupholstery, new
captains chairs, electrified the wipers, and some other things of a personal
nature. We also put on new air bags (the ride was better).
In 2009, after replacing some worn front-end parts and putting in new
frame/body mounts, replacing a bad pork chop, adjusting the ride height, the
ride was a whole lot quieter and the steering was a dream -- as it should
have been. The only thing I didn't get done before selling it in 2011 was to
rebuild some of the rear end components and get the rear aligned properly.
All of this took another 4 - 6K from the wallet.
So, over the course of three years we spent 20K on the coach and were able
to sell it for 17K. Gratefully, some Apple stock I had purchased between $8
and $30 paid for the work. Luckily I sold the stock between $66 and $140.
(How I wish I had bought more stock at those pre-2009 prices since it now
fetches in excess of $500.)
But, here's the real thing (as MasterCard would say, "priceless"): We have
met some genuinely nice people and a couple of old soreheads. We made
memories. We've enjoyed rallies and GMCMI conventions (still do). Even the
frustrating situations are events we now laugh about. Have I regretted any
of it? Absolutely not!
The GMC gets you in the door. It's the people and relationships developed
(GMCers are almost a rare breed but they seem pretty much like other
motorhome owners, just more humble) that will keep you a GMCer at heart.
By the way, in 2010 we bought a Holiday Rambler with CAT engine. In 2012 I
sold it for what I paid for it -- wow! If we weren't on the path to
full-timing we'd still be in a GMC.
Byron Songer
Louisville, KY
Bob Armstrong wrote:
> Hello GMC'ers,
>
> I am a GMC Coach want to be with a couple questions. I first was introduced
> to the GMC Coach when I was 15 yrs old.in "75". My Uncle, who worked for
> Pratt - Whitney aircraft engine division drove his GMC Couch from Florida to
> Idaho for a visit. What an amazing contraption to witness at that time . . .
> nothing short of a space vehicle on wheels driven by an uncle in the jet
> engine industry. I will never forget my first impression. Now my wife and I
> have retired and looking in to a GMC coach that is larger then our 10 ft
> slide on camper we have had for years for our family wild Idaho wilderness
> adventures.
>
> Following this forum for a short while has giving me a great deal of
> information regarding GMC issues, upgrades and modifications that has been
> extremely useful.
>
> Here is my question and or clarification regarding purchasing a GMC.
>
> On the forum a while ago, it was mentioned that a GMC Coach is worth $6000
> no mater what. Does that mean those coaches that have been modified,
> upgraded including engine rebuilds that are selling for 15 to 30 thousand
> are still on paper worth $6000? Is there a RV blue book that is
> establishing that price? What will a bank go on of financing a GMC Coach.
> Any ideas.
>
> I will continue to monitor this forum, it is quite informative and
> intertaining.
>
> Bob Armstrong
>
> GMC - Wanta be
> Boise Id
>
>
>
> ----- Original Message -----
> From: "Richard" <GMC77Birchaven@yahoo.com>
> To: <gmclist@temp.gmcnet.org>
> Sent: Tuesday, December 10, 2013 4:31 PM
> Subject: Re: [GMCnet] Stories of GM people that made our coaches?
>
>
>>
>>
>> bryant374 wrote on Tue, 10 December 2013 15:33
>>> Really GREAT to hear someone wants to hear about the history of the GMC
>>> MH.
>>
>>
>> Hello, Bill. How about starting a biweekly or monthly series of posts
>> with anecdotes, history and a trivia contest? It would be enjoyable year
>> round and it'd certainly help pass this early onslaught winter!
>>
>> Quote:
>>> A number of these folks have passed and my desire back then was to find
>>> as much first hand information as possible before that information was
>>> gone for all time, I got much of it, know I missed some and that bugs me.
>>
>>
>> I hear Ted Williams was kind of bugged that he only hit .406 that year.
>> ;)
>>
>> Quote:
>>> At GMCMI rallies I suggested we hold 25th anniversaries for each model
>>> year 1973 thru 1978 (still have the proposal somewhere). We judged for,
>>> best original & Members choice, gave the anniversary years special
>>> parking, recognizing at meetings, we all had a ball. Also posted on the
>>> bulletin board each anniversary years sales brochures, advertisments and
>>> other literature. For a number of years I brought part of my GMC MH
>>> collectables to display at the conventions. The last one was at DuQuoin,
>>> IL. Hope I can get back to attending rallies again.
>>
>>
>> I would love to see some more of the friendly competition for Best of Show
>> GMCs. Best overall, best amateur restomod, best original, most
>> innovative, etc.
>>
>> Quote:
>>> CD "GMC Motorhome, from beginning to end" (History) see Applied web site.
>>>
>>> DVD "GMC Motorhome, Mini Theatre Films" (13 original GMC showroom films)
>>> see Applied web site.
>>>
>>> DVD "Workprint" Early development of the GMC Motorhome from 11-70 to 3-71
>>> (starts with pie wagon- ends with RV-26 clay model) available from me
>>> ($25 includes postage)
>>
>>
>> I've been savoring your oeuvre, Bill. I watched the Workprint the night I
>> received it in the mail. I'm almost through the Mini Theatre films
>> (nearly broke the computer back and pause buttons watching those!). I'll
>> peruse the History CD over the winter and steal...err...work on ideas for
>> my coach.
>>
>> Thanks again for the effort and scholarship.
>>
>> Richard
>>
>> PS Should I private message you about getting the answers to the trivia
>> questions ahead of time...? :roll:
>>
>> --
>> '77 Birchaven TZE...777
>> _______________________________________________
>> GMCnet mailing list
>> Unsubscribe or Change List Options:
>> http://temp.gmcnet.org/cgi-bin/mailman/listinfo/gmclist
>>
>
> _______________________________________________
> GMCnet mailing list
> Unsubscribe or Change List Options:
> http://temp.gmcnet.org/cgi-bin/mailman/listinfo/gmclist
_______________________________________________
GMCnet mailing list
Unsubscribe or Change List Options:
http://temp.gmcnet.org/cgi-bin/mailman/listinfo/gmclist
--
Byron Songer
Full-timing to enjoy the USA
Former owner but still an admirer
GMC paint schemes at -
http://www.songerconsulting.net
|
|
|
|
|
|
| Re: [GMCnet] Value of a GMC (was stories of GM people that Å [message #232938 is a reply to message #232933] |
Thu, 12 December 2013 10:23 |
sgltrac
Messages: 2797
Registered: April 2011
Karma: 1
|
Senior Member |
|
|
What is an old sorehead Byron?
Todd Sullivan
Sully
77 royale
Seattle
> On Dec 12, 2013, at 6:48 AM, Byron Songer <bsonger@songerconsulting.net> wrote:
>
> OK. Let's get this on a separate track.
>
> Here's my own experience.
>
> In 2007 we bought a 1978 Royale (dry rear bath, upfitted by Coachman). It
> had been repainted. The interior was original (heard to wear out nylon
> upholstery). My wife and I flew from Louisville to Charleston, SC to look it
> over and drive it home (should have bought a round trip ticket). At any
> rate, for just under 18K in 2007 we had a GMC -- my dream for several years.
>
> It stunk all the way home and rode like a true log wagon (not a pie wagon on
> three axles). Martha thought sure I had taken leave of my senses. OK. So, we
> get the carburetor rebuilt -- things are better -- then get all the bolts in
> on the exhaust manifold on the right as well as a new gasket (that 403 could
> go through gaskets like Grant through Richmond). OK. It's in good enough
> shape to take a trip from Louisville to the Outer Banks in 2008.
>
> We spent nearly 14 - 15K paying others to put in a new ceiling, redo the
> kitchen counter, appliances, rear bath fixtures, complete reupholstery, new
> captains chairs, electrified the wipers, and some other things of a personal
> nature. We also put on new air bags (the ride was better).
>
> In 2009, after replacing some worn front-end parts and putting in new
> frame/body mounts, replacing a bad pork chop, adjusting the ride height, the
> ride was a whole lot quieter and the steering was a dream -- as it should
> have been. The only thing I didn't get done before selling it in 2011 was to
> rebuild some of the rear end components and get the rear aligned properly.
> All of this took another 4 - 6K from the wallet.
>
> So, over the course of three years we spent 20K on the coach and were able
> to sell it for 17K. Gratefully, some Apple stock I had purchased between $8
> and $30 paid for the work. Luckily I sold the stock between $66 and $140.
> (How I wish I had bought more stock at those pre-2009 prices since it now
> fetches in excess of $500.)
>
> But, here's the real thing (as MasterCard would say, "priceless"): We have
> met some genuinely nice people and a couple of old soreheads. We made
> memories. We've enjoyed rallies and GMCMI conventions (still do). Even the
> frustrating situations are events we now laugh about. Have I regretted any
> of it? Absolutely not!
>
> The GMC gets you in the door. It's the people and relationships developed
> (GMCers are almost a rare breed but they seem pretty much like other
> motorhome owners, just more humble) that will keep you a GMCer at heart.
>
> By the way, in 2010 we bought a Holiday Rambler with CAT engine. In 2012 I
> sold it for what I paid for it -- wow! If we weren't on the path to
> full-timing we'd still be in a GMC.
>
> Byron Songer
> Louisville, KY
>
>
> Bob Armstrong wrote:
>
>> Hello GMC'ers,
>>
>> I am a GMC Coach want to be with a couple questions. I first was introduced
>> to the GMC Coach when I was 15 yrs old.in "75". My Uncle, who worked for
>> Pratt - Whitney aircraft engine division drove his GMC Couch from Florida to
>> Idaho for a visit. What an amazing contraption to witness at that time . . .
>> nothing short of a space vehicle on wheels driven by an uncle in the jet
>> engine industry. I will never forget my first impression. Now my wife and I
>> have retired and looking in to a GMC coach that is larger then our 10 ft
>> slide on camper we have had for years for our family wild Idaho wilderness
>> adventures.
>>
>> Following this forum for a short while has giving me a great deal of
>> information regarding GMC issues, upgrades and modifications that has been
>> extremely useful.
>>
>> Here is my question and or clarification regarding purchasing a GMC.
>>
>> On the forum a while ago, it was mentioned that a GMC Coach is worth $6000
>> no mater what. Does that mean those coaches that have been modified,
>> upgraded including engine rebuilds that are selling for 15 to 30 thousand
>> are still on paper worth $6000? Is there a RV blue book that is
>> establishing that price? What will a bank go on of financing a GMC Coach.
>> Any ideas.
>>
>> I will continue to monitor this forum, it is quite informative and
>> intertaining.
>>
>> Bob Armstrong
>>
>> GMC - Wanta be
>> Boise Id
>>
>>
>>
>> ----- Original Message -----
>> From: "Richard" <GMC77Birchaven@yahoo.com>
>> To: <gmclist@temp.gmcnet.org>
>> Sent: Tuesday, December 10, 2013 4:31 PM
>> Subject: Re: [GMCnet] Stories of GM people that made our coaches?
>>
>>
>>>
>>>
>>> bryant374 wrote on Tue, 10 December 2013 15:33
>>>> Really GREAT to hear someone wants to hear about the history of the GMC
>>>> MH.
>>>
>>>
>>> Hello, Bill. How about starting a biweekly or monthly series of posts
>>> with anecdotes, history and a trivia contest? It would be enjoyable year
>>> round and it'd certainly help pass this early onslaught winter!
>>>
>>> Quote:
>>>> A number of these folks have passed and my desire back then was to find
>>>> as much first hand information as possible before that information was
>>>> gone for all time, I got much of it, know I missed some and that bugs me.
>>>
>>>
>>> I hear Ted Williams was kind of bugged that he only hit .406 that year.
>>> ;)
>>>
>>> Quote:
>>>> At GMCMI rallies I suggested we hold 25th anniversaries for each model
>>>> year 1973 thru 1978 (still have the proposal somewhere). We judged for,
>>>> best original & Members choice, gave the anniversary years special
>>>> parking, recognizing at meetings, we all had a ball. Also posted on the
>>>> bulletin board each anniversary years sales brochures, advertisments and
>>>> other literature. For a number of years I brought part of my GMC MH
>>>> collectables to display at the conventions. The last one was at DuQuoin,
>>>> IL. Hope I can get back to attending rallies again.
>>>
>>>
>>> I would love to see some more of the friendly competition for Best of Show
>>> GMCs. Best overall, best amateur restomod, best original, most
>>> innovative, etc.
>>>
>>> Quote:
>>>> CD "GMC Motorhome, from beginning to end" (History) see Applied web site.
>>>>
>>>> DVD "GMC Motorhome, Mini Theatre Films" (13 original GMC showroom films)
>>>> see Applied web site.
>>>>
>>>> DVD "Workprint" Early development of the GMC Motorhome from 11-70 to 3-71
>>>> (starts with pie wagon- ends with RV-26 clay model) available from me
>>>> ($25 includes postage)
>>>
>>>
>>> I've been savoring your oeuvre, Bill. I watched the Workprint the night I
>>> received it in the mail. I'm almost through the Mini Theatre films
>>> (nearly broke the computer back and pause buttons watching those!). I'll
>>> peruse the History CD over the winter and steal...err...work on ideas for
>>> my coach.
>>>
>>> Thanks again for the effort and scholarship.
>>>
>>> Richard
>>>
>>> PS Should I private message you about getting the answers to the trivia
>>> questions ahead of time...? :roll:
>>>
>>> --
>>> '77 Birchaven TZE...777
>>> _______________________________________________
>>> GMCnet mailing list
>>> Unsubscribe or Change List Options:
>>> http://temp.gmcnet.org/cgi-bin/mailman/listinfo/gmclist
>>>
>>
>> _______________________________________________
>> GMCnet mailing list
>> Unsubscribe or Change List Options:
>> http://temp.gmcnet.org/cgi-bin/mailman/listinfo/gmclist
>
>
> _______________________________________________
> GMCnet mailing list
> Unsubscribe or Change List Options:
> http://temp.gmcnet.org/cgi-bin/mailman/listinfo/gmclist
_______________________________________________
GMCnet mailing list
Unsubscribe or Change List Options:
http://temp.gmcnet.org/cgi-bin/mailman/listinfo/gmclist
Sully
77 Royale basket case.
Future motorhome land speed record holder(bucket list)
Seattle, Wa.
|
|
|
|
| Re: [GMCnet] Value of a GMC (was stories of GM people that © [message #232944 is a reply to message #232938] |
Thu, 12 December 2013 11:30 |
|
|
In my dictionary, and old "sorehead" is someone that's never happy, always
complaining about something, and not fun to be around. Of course, no one has
spent more on their coach and gotten ripped off at the cheap parts place
than they have. Oh, and the trips to the men's mall has resulted in injuries
too great to imagine.
That's the first definition. The second one is vastly different. In this
instance a sorehead is someone that's always looking under the hood and
having it fall on them while removing said head. The balder the head the
more easy it is to be come obviously sore.
Pick the definition that fits best.
Byron
Todd Sullivan wrote:
> What is an old sorehead Byron?
>
> Todd Sullivan
>
> Sully
> 77 royale
> Seattle
_______________________________________________
GMCnet mailing list
Unsubscribe or Change List Options:
http://temp.gmcnet.org/cgi-bin/mailman/listinfo/gmclist
--
Byron Songer
Full-timing to enjoy the USA
Former owner but still an admirer
GMC paint schemes at -
http://www.songerconsulting.net
|
|
|
|
| Re: [GMCnet] Value of a GMC (was stories of GM people that Å [message #232950 is a reply to message #232944] |
Thu, 12 December 2013 12:22 |
sgltrac
Messages: 2797
Registered: April 2011
Karma: 1
|
Senior Member |
|
|
Thanks for the explanation
Todd Sullivan
Sully
77 royale
Seattle
> On Dec 12, 2013, at 9:30 AM, Byron Songer <bsonger@songerconsulting.net> wrote:
>
> In my dictionary, and old "sorehead" is someone that's never happy, always
> complaining about something, and not fun to be around. Of course, no one has
> spent more on their coach and gotten ripped off at the cheap parts place
> than they have. Oh, and the trips to the men's mall has resulted in injuries
> too great to imagine.
>
> That's the first definition. The second one is vastly different. In this
> instance a sorehead is someone that's always looking under the hood and
> having it fall on them while removing said head. The balder the head the
> more easy it is to be come obviously sore.
>
> Pick the definition that fits best.
>
> Byron
>
>
> Todd Sullivan wrote:
>
>> What is an old sorehead Byron?
>>
>> Todd Sullivan
>>
>> Sully
>> 77 royale
>> Seattle
>
>
> _______________________________________________
> GMCnet mailing list
> Unsubscribe or Change List Options:
> http://temp.gmcnet.org/cgi-bin/mailman/listinfo/gmclist
_______________________________________________
GMCnet mailing list
Unsubscribe or Change List Options:
http://temp.gmcnet.org/cgi-bin/mailman/listinfo/gmclist
Sully
77 Royale basket case.
Future motorhome land speed record holder(bucket list)
Seattle, Wa.
|
|
|
|
Goto Forum:
Current Time: Thu Sep 19 20:28:43 CDT 2024
Total time taken to generate the page: 0.01223 seconds
|
GMCforum
Search
Help
Register
Login
Home
