Home » Public Forums » GMCnet » [GMCnet] Replacement Coach height control system
| [GMCnet] Replacement Coach height control system [message #267939] |
Sat, 20 December 2014 17:47  |
Advanced Concept Ener
Messages: 112
Registered: December 2014
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I am an instrument engineer with a 76 Palm beach that needs to have the height control system updated to something much simpler. I have laid out a system and priced up the components. I can just build one or was wondering how many people may be interested in the same thing and how much they would be willing to pay. It is simple and works by continuously controlling the actual measured height from the ground to a spot on the chassis. You would be able to set the height where you wanted and bias the height adjustment from side to side using manual switches. Right now I can do it using off the shelf components but at a stiff cost. I believe I can get the price down by building a custom control board but would have to make at least 100 units to cover the development cost. Are there 100 people out there who would pay for a state of the art industrial grade control system for the height control for about $450?
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| Re: [GMCnet] Replacement Coach height control system [message #267945 is a reply to message #267939] |
Sat, 20 December 2014 19:30  |
powerjon
Messages: 2446
Registered: January 2004
Karma: 5
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To the mystery GMC owner/current instrument engineer. We have been discussing this subject for several years and I would like to repost an email that I sent originally in June of 2012. Nothing has changed since it was first posted and I am also a retired Instrument Engineer of 40 years in the business with Dow. I have built several replacement systems based on the ElectroLevel 1, which I like best, my personal choice! I do understand where you are coming from, but it is always a cost issue. Anyway here is the original posting,
“June 19, 2012
Gene, Jim, Mandie and others,
This is not meant to be pissing contest on the merits of various air
systems, lets just get some of the Myths cleared up.
First of all let us agree that the best air ride system for your GMC
is the factory OEM automatic leveling air ride system, wether it be
Power-Level, EL 1 or EL 2. If you have one that is working, by all
means keep it in good shape or have it repaired or renewed if you
can. If you have never had a coach with a working OEM system then you
then the comparison will be difficult.
OK, what else is available for our coaches:
1. Schraders valve and manually putting air in your air bags. Will
get you coach down the road, but is a real PITA!
2. Bovee’s Wireless air System
It is a well engineered substitute for adding air to your air bags and
Gary did a great job on designing and assembling this system. It is a
PRESSURE based system, uses NO leveling valves and is basically the
same concept as using Schraders valves. (Gary's words paraphrased not
mine) That said it does have added benefits over just having
Schraders valves on your air bags.
The following is quoted form Gary's Tech article on the GMC Western
States site.
(Quote)
a. No more having to go to the bags to fill or release air;
b. No more having to drag out a compressor to air up your bags for
travel.
c. You program the remote digital controller for the proper ride
height and it will
automatically keep the bags air pressure within plus or minus 3
pounds of the
Programmed setting for each bag.
d. The nice thing is when you park at an RV park or are dry camping
you use the remote to
level your coach.
e. When you are ready to hit the road you just push the programmed
button for road travel. It
adds or releases air, whatever is needed for each bag and you are soon
on your way. (This
system has a maximum air pressure limit of 100 pound.)"
(UnQuote)
Allows you to manual adjust the air pressure in your air bags. (a,b &
d) Allows you to automatically return to a predetermined pressure
set point and hold that pressure +/- 3 PSIG. (c & e)
What it does not do is that it DOES NOT automatically compensate for
changes in ride height wether setting stationary or rolling down the
road and your ride height is constantly changing and that can affect
how your coach steers down the road. You STILL have to check the
ride height of your coach to determine the necessary predetermined
pressure requirements for various load conditions the system must
compensate for. Be sure to let it settle between changes to see if
the ride height stabilizes and your good to go at that PSIG. Jerry
Work says this is extremely important when setting right heights both
front and rear in his alignment presentation he gave at the GMCWS
Spring 2012 rally. (available at jerrywork.com see links at bottom
of page) 90% of the coaches that attended the rally drove in with the
ride heights incorrectly set!
System Replacement Cost
To repair the OEM system is very hard to determine and it could be
from several hundred dollars to considerably more. Depends if you
want to keep the OEM system.
The cost for Gary's system is going to be in the $780 range depending
on what you buy or substitute. It is cost effective!
Which is best, it is going to come down to personal choice.
As for Single air Bag per side replacement there are several choices
available.
SullyBilt - You're looking at about $600 depending on the finish you
choose on the mounting brackets and that includes air bags cost which
you purchase yourself. People have found the bags between $110 &
$140. Just need to shop well.
Jim K sells a replacement bag system call MONO bags for $690 for the
pair and only for the standard size tire. Well priced system and bolt
on also.
Zeb Frady @ Southland RV also sells a single bag upgrade.
770-271-750two
If you got the money then both Jim K and Jim B Sell the Quad bag
system.
Mandie, to replace your air system with Gary's plus replacing the air
bags your total cost is going to be in the $1400 range +/- plus you
will need to consider labor cost if you cannot do the work yourself.
The choice will be yours.
Ok, I will get off my soap box now.
COMMENTS FOR TONIGHT:
I agree with Todd’s email comments below. I have always had a coaches that have had operating air ride systems. Our 77 Eleganza II (our first coach) ( EL 1 )was a dream to drive, it was a true 2 finger on the steering wheel going down the road coach. The stretch coach built in 1997 also is a EL 1 system and I spent the time finally this fall to do the ride hight correctly and it drove very well out to Tucson and back this year almost 5800 miles total. It does have a few small air leaks that cause it to leak down air pressure over several days, but I will be going thru that this summer and will photo document that. I also have a complete EL 1 system that I bought GMCREC in Houston a few years back that will be going into the 1975 Avion to replace the Power Level system. I will be doing that because I can.
As for level control weight DOES MAKE A DIFFERENCE. When I finally set the ride height this past fall ( it was off quite a bite both front and rear ) the coach weighed empty about 12,100#, now remember I have a stretch which weights more than the standard 26’. My going down the road with everything in the coach, including the kitchen sink, remember that we are going out for 3+ months, plus full fuel tanks ( 75 gallons ), 1/4 full water and basically empty holding tanks, I have 2 tanks, comes in at about 14,800# without passengers. The difference in ride height between empty and loaded after settling was under a 1/4 inch. My system works pretty good, and I did check the coach tonight in the shop and there was no real difference between the fall 2013 and tonights measurements, empty weight measurement. I have air system pressure gauges that show supply and both left and right air pressure in the air bags. The pressure goes up almost 10# on each side for the difference between empty and fully loaded weights.
I have had air bag extenders on my 77 Eleganza II coach, but I noticed that the coach road too soft for me and swayed more, I took them off in 1999 and sold them. I have another set for sale ( New ) if anyone want them. They were very popular in the late 80’s and most of the 90’s. They did reduce the air pressure required. Now Todds new style Sullybag air bag system does also reduce the air pressure in the bags, but that is because of the size ( volume )of the bag that is used and it requires less air pressure for the same spring rate as the OEM bag actually giving it a more stable ride. Our stretch coach has a Buskirk designed 4 bags system ( All Buskirk Stretch coaches have the same system ). It is an upgraded version of Leigh Harrison's 4 bag system, but built out of considerable heavier materials and slightly larger air bags and doesn’t have the issues that the stock Harrison system has. It has a very stable ride going down the road.”
“END OF POST”
Again all comments are welcome and we can discuss them all.
J.R. Wright
GMC Great Laker MHC
Newsletter Editor/Publisher
GMC Eastern States
GMCMHI
78 GMC Buskirk 30’ Stretch
75 GMC Avion (Under Reconstruction)
Michigan
> On Dec 20, 2014, at 6:47 PM, Advanced Concept Energy Solutions wrote:
>
> I am an instrument engineer with a 76 Palm beach that needs to have the height control system updated to something much simpler. I have laid out a system and priced up the components. I can just build one or was wondering how many people may be interested in the same thing and how much they would be willing to pay. It is simple and works by continuously controlling the actual measured height from the ground to a spot on the chassis. You would be able to set the height where you wanted and bias the height adjustment from side to side using manual switches. Right now I can do it using off the shelf components but at a stiff cost. I believe I can get the price down by building a custom control board but would have to make at least 100 units to cover the development cost. Are there 100 people out there who would pay for a state of the art industrial grade control system for the height control for about $450?
>
> Sent from my iPad
> _______________________________________________
> GMCnet mailing list
> Unsubscribe or Change List Options:
> http://temp.gmcnet.org/cgi-bin/mailman/listinfo/gmclist
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J.R. Wright
GMC GreatLaker
GMC Eastern States
GMCMI
78 30' Buskirk Stretch
75 Avion Under Reconstruction
Michigan
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| Re: [GMCnet] Replacement Coach height control system [message #267970 is a reply to message #267939] |
Sun, 21 December 2014 09:57 |
Ken Henderson
Messages: 8726
Registered: March 2004
Location: Americus, GA
Karma: 9
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Senior Member |
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Jon,
I suspect there are 100++ people willing to pay $450 for a reliable control
system. But that's a quite qualified answer. First off, because of the
four different OEM systems out there, in various states of operation, the
replacement system needs to be able to replace any one of them. Given the
cost constraint, you should assume that the compressor and compressed air
storage are pre-existing. Thus you're left with these fundamental
requirements for each side of the coach (since we're really talking about
nearly-identical but entirely separate Left and Right systems):
1. Measure and maintain a pre-set ride height by adding or releasing
pressure from an air bag(s) during travel.
2. Allow manual over-ride of 1. for abnormal conditions such as road
obstacles and parked leveling.
Reduced to those requirements, the problem is greatly simplified and doable
at a reasonable cost. But it's necessary to address the "blue sky" desires
to add features:
1. A. Forget wireless control. The electronic complexity added is not
worth the ease of installation.
1.B. Forget on-demand ride height adjustment (except for 2.). The GMC's
ride heights are too critical to be casually changed. This is especially
true with such other modifications as the 1-Ton front suspension, which
creates drastic camber changes with ride height -- and the front IS
affected by the rear. Electronic adjustment of ride height WOULD be nice,
and simple to achieve -- but should not be too easily accessible. Either
digital or analog setting would be fine.
1.C. Forget remote pressure or height read-outs. They really offer
nothing the operator needs to know so don't add complexity and cost.
1.D. Forget fancy "modern" height sensors. While it sounds wonderful to
have solid state devices with no moving parts, one must consider that the
road surface will not always be ideal to reflect sonic or radar signals.
And that the sensor may be easily contaminated. And that the added
complexity of the signal processing to accommodate the varying reflective
surface adds cost as well as requiring excessive R&D. And that the
specific sensor chosen may not be readily available, now or in the future.
Stick with widely used, readily available, multi-million mile tested
components, such as level sensors from GM cars. They'll do the job
adequately, are now available in MANY junk yards, and will be for a long
time to come.
1.E. Similarly to the level sensors, readily available Raise and Lower
valves must be used for present cost and future availability. With the
wide variety of hot rod air suspensions out there, it may be that robust
coil drivers are more important than the specific valves chosen so that
future substitutions are easily accommodated. Selection of valves that
don't leak may be the biggest challenge of the entire project!
1.F. Remember that the controller WILL fail. Thus simplicity is
paramount. It would be great if the basic controller cost was low enough
to allow everyone to have a spare.
1.G. Probably more that I'm not thinking of now.
2. Can probably be nothing more nor less than the Electrolevel's three
switches: One to defeat the automatic control and one for each side to
momentarily open either the Raise or Lower valve. Do NOT include it in the
basic controller since that WILL fail.
This is a now, and future moreso, needed improvement. Just as I've seen
with the electric wiper kits, there will be an initial surge of orders from
first-adopters and those with pre-existing problems. Then demand will
taper off to a moderate level over the following many years. Even with no
advertising, I've sold several hundred of the wiper kits in the past 10
years or so, and continue to get a few orders every month. You can make a
little money at it, but more importantly can provide a needed service to
the community -- but don't undertake it if you can't offer long-term
support -- the electronics WILL fail. :-)
JMHO, based on 16 years of GMC experience preceded by R&D & EE experience.
Ken H.
Americus, GA
'76 X-Birchaven w/Cad500/Howell EFI & EBL,
Manny Brakes & 1-Ton, etc., etc.
www.gmcwipersetc.com
On Sat, Dec 20, 2014 at 6:47 PM, Advanced Concept Energy Solutions <
aces4nrg@gmail.com> wrote:
> I am an instrument engineer with a 76 Palm beach that needs to have the
> height control system updated to something much simpler. I have laid out a
> system and priced up the components. I can just build one or was wondering
> how many people may be interested in the same thing and how much they would
> be willing to pay. It is simple and works by continuously controlling the
> actual measured height from the ground to a spot on the chassis. You would
> be able to set the height where you wanted and bias the height adjustment
> from side to side using manual switches. Right now I can do it using off
> the shelf components but at a stiff cost. I believe I can get the price
> down by building a custom control board but would have to make at least 100
> units to cover the development cost. Are there 100 people out there who
> would pay for a state of the art industrial grade control system for the
> height control for about $450?
>
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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
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| Re: [GMCnet] Replacement Coach height control system [message #267972 is a reply to message #267939] |
Sun, 21 December 2014 10:16 |
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Matt Colie
Messages: 8547
Registered: March 2007
Location: S.E. Michigan
Karma: 7
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Senior Member |
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Jon D.
Even as a long time owner, we welcome you to the group, family, cult, asylum....
The only thing I can tell you for certain is that if your proposed system does not include real ride height control in some way, it has little to offer. My coach is extremely light, so the pressure in the airsprings matters more than most. But, I have put the effort into having a functional system. Many have taken up valving the control air off at the springs as opposed to making the system functional and they seem to get by just fine that way.
As another licensed engineer (1st steam & motor open) and lifelong waterman, I understand the "coming home" issue. The diesels here on the lakes were still a problem that way. When I did get to where home was at the time, often the seabag would get left on the back step so we could take it to a local laundamat. The real exception was a banana boat (really). Nothing stank and the bugs (Monster - Killer Bugs) were all contained in the refrigerated holds.
As you are new here, I will persist in my habit. You are now a part of a community much like that of real watermen. We help each other all the time - without question or reserve. Because of that, I like to welcome new members as a new owner or vessel would be welcomed at home. So,
May the Good Lord Bless this coach and all those that set forth within her.
Welcome Jon
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
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| Re: [GMCnet] Replacement Coach height control system [message #267973 is a reply to message #267945] |
Sun, 21 December 2014 11:02 |
Bob de Kruyff
Messages: 4260
Registered: January 2004
Location: Chandler, AZ
Karma: 1
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Senior Member |
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""Again all comments are welcome and we can discuss them all.
J.R. Wright
GMC Great Laker MHC
Newsletter Editor/Publisher
GMC Eastern States
GMCMHI
78 GMC Buskirk 30' Stretch
75 GMC Avion (Under Reconstruction)
Michigan""
Great summary. I also like Ken H's comments about the preciseness needs esp with the 1 ton.
Bob de Kruyff
78 Eleganza
Chandler, AZ
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| Re: [GMCnet] Replacement Coach height control system [message #267974 is a reply to message #267973] |
Sun, 21 December 2014 11:15 |
Keith V
Messages: 2337
Registered: March 2008
Location: Mounds View,MN
Karma: 0
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Senior Member |
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As I have talked about before I have a true height measuring controller that works.
I have a prototype system running on my coach.
I have been working with another GMCer, introduce yourself if you dare Smile, and we have PCBs in fab as I write this, they are due for Christmas.
It uses any of multiple options for ride height. Any Analog sensor such as those used on GM or available from Dakota digital, Ride pro etc will work. It uses 4 air solenoids of most any type, from the expensive Air Ride blocks to cheap SMC valves, what ever you want to use. There are only 2 lines running to the air bags from the valve block.
The height sensors are mounted to the original mounting points using a custom bracket.
The controller itself is an 8 bit Atmel Automotive grade MCU, not an Arduino, running fully custom C++. All the code is ours as is the PCB design. (I write firmware for a contact house doing everything from sprinkler systems to Avionics to Medical if you worry about my credentials ) It has FET drivers to control the solenoids. The controller fits into the stock location and uses high end rocker switches and push buttons. It has LED indicators to show you what it is doing.
It has 2 RF remotes. One that is a keyfob, It provides up and down for each wheel. This allows you to have complete manual control for dumping, tire changing etc.
The other remote is for the steering wheel. it can control the coach height up and down ( but not side to side ) for traversing speed bumps and steep drive ways. It also can enable travel mode or camp mode.
Travel mode is a calibrated height for travel. Setting travel height is as simple as using the keyfob to set height while you are at the back of the coach measuring the actual height! No driving around or settling the suspension is required. it just works.
Camp mode is new. This is a feature found on high end systems where when you pull into the campsite it will level you coach for camping. No Guessing, no levels required. just press the button and it will adjust until the coach is level.
It performs exceptionally well. It is capable of detecting you Leaning from side to side standing by the dinnette, no it doesn't adjust that closely. I ran the prototype last summer and had no issues. I had it at the GMC convention last fall.
There is still work to be done, but I'm hoping to be delivering units in the spring to a restricted set of installers.
Keith Vasilakes
Mounds View. MN
75 ex Royale GMC
ask me about MicroLevel
Cell, 763-732-3419
My427v8@hotmail.com
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| Re: [GMCnet] Replacement Coach height control system [message #267975 is a reply to message #267952] |
Sun, 21 December 2014 11:21 |
Keith V
Messages: 2337
Registered: March 2008
Location: Mounds View,MN
Karma: 0
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Senior Member |
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jimk wrote on Sat, 20 December 2014 22:00One must consider the environmental effects on the components.
What works in an industrial environment does not work well in an atomotive
application due to the harsh environment the vehicles face.
There is always room for better system and they are welcome as long as
there are technical support.
I would not use ultrasonic or Infrared for just that reason. they get dirty and they stop working.
Radar MIGHT work, but I doubt you can get the accuracy you need.
Nothing beats a good quality potentiometer. Thats why everyone uses them.
Keith Vasilakes
Mounds View. MN
75 ex Royale GMC
ask me about MicroLevel
Cell, 763-732-3419
My427v8@hotmail.com
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| Re: [GMCnet] Replacement Coach height control system [message #267978 is a reply to message #267974] |
Sun, 21 December 2014 11:30 |
James Hupy
Messages: 6806
Registered: May 2010
Karma: -62
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Senior Member |
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Sounds kinda complex to me. I prefer the K.I.S.S. style. The OEM mechanical
system is complex enough in a stone age kind of way. Your proposed system
sounds like a high tech version of the original. Just my take on it, but
the last time I checked, the more complex the system, the greater the
probability of failure, and with the complexity comes a further problem of
being harder to diagnose. But, some of us are content with idiot lights
for gages, and others want the instrumentation of the space shuttle.
Personal preferences abound here.
Jim Hupy
Salem, Or
78 GMC ROYALE 403
On Dec 21, 2014 9:15 AM, "Keith V" wrote:
> As I have talked about before I have a true height measuring controller
> that works.
> I have a prototype system running on my coach.
> I have been working with another GMCer, introduce yourself if you dare
> Smile, and we have PCBs in fab as I write this, they are due for Christmas.
>
> It uses any of multiple options for ride height. Any Analog sensor such as
> those used on GM or available from Dakota digital, Ride pro etc will work.
> It uses 4 air solenoids of most any type, from the expensive Air Ride
> blocks to cheap SMC valves, what ever you want to use. There are only 2
> lines
> running to the air bags from the valve block.
> The height sensors are mounted to the original mounting points using a
> custom bracket.
>
> The controller itself is an 8 bit Atmel Automotive grade MCU, not an
> Arduino, running fully custom C++. All the code is ours as is the PCB
> design. (I
> write firmware for a contact house doing everything from sprinkler systems
> to Avionics to Medical if you worry about my credentials ) It has FET
> drivers to control the solenoids. The controller fits into the stock
> location and uses high end rocker switches and push buttons. It has LED
> indicators to show you what it is doing.
>
> It has 2 RF remotes. One that is a keyfob, It provides up and down for
> each wheel. This allows you to have complete manual control for dumping,
> tire
> changing etc.
>
> The other remote is for the steering wheel. it can control the coach
> height up and down ( but not side to side ) for traversing speed bumps and
> steep
> drive ways. It also can enable travel mode or camp mode.
>
> Travel mode is a calibrated height for travel. Setting travel height is as
> simple as using the keyfob to set height while you are at the back of the
> coach measuring the actual height! No driving around or settling the
> suspension is required. it just works.
>
> Camp mode is new. This is a feature found on high end systems where when
> you pull into the campsite it will level you coach for camping. No Guessing,
> no levels required. just press the button and it will adjust until the
> coach is level.
>
>
> It performs exceptionally well. It is capable of detecting you Leaning
> from side to side standing by the dinnette, no it doesn't adjust that
> closely.
> I ran the prototype last summer and had no issues. I had it at the GMC
> convention last fall.
>
> There is still work to be done, but I'm hoping to be delivering units in
> the spring to a restricted set of installers.
> --
> Keith Vasilakes
> Mounds View. MN
> 75 ex Royale GMC
> 69 Vette
> 29 Dodge
>
>
> _______________________________________________
> GMCnet mailing list
> Unsubscribe or Change List Options:
> http://temp.gmcnet.org/cgi-bin/mailman/listinfo/gmclist
>
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| Re: [GMCnet] Replacement Coach height control system [message #267982 is a reply to message #267978] |
Sun, 21 December 2014 12:01 |
Mr ERFisher
Messages: 7117
Registered: August 2005
Karma: 2
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Senior Member |
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On Sunday, December 21, 2014, James Hupy wrote:
> Sounds kinda complex to me. I prefer the K.I.S.S. style. The OEM mechanical
> system is complex enough in a stone age kind of way. Your proposed system
> sounds like a high tech version of the original. Just my take on it, but
> the last time I checked, the more complex the system, the greater the
> probability of failure, and with the complexity comes a further problem of
> being harder to diagnose. But, some of us are content with idiot lights
> for gages, and others want the instrumentation of the space shuttle.
> Personal preferences abound here.
And
And
Of the 9000 GMC's still out there, I would guess only 100 or so owners do
their own work
- So KISS is king
- And IIABDFI ( if it ain't broke don't fix it),
- So we need simple answers
- Keep on keeping on
ERF
> Jim Hupy
> Salem, Or
> 78 GMC ROYALE 403
> On Dec 21, 2014 9:15 AM, "Keith V"
> wrote:
>
>> As I have talked about before I have a true height measuring controller
>> that works.
>> I have a prototype system running on my coach.
>> I have been working with another GMCer, introduce yourself if you dare
>> Smile, and we have PCBs in fab as I write this, they are due for
> Christmas.
>>
>> It uses any of multiple options for ride height. Any Analog sensor such
> as
>> those used on GM or available from Dakota digital, Ride pro etc will
> work.
>> It uses 4 air solenoids of most any type, from the expensive Air Ride
>> blocks to cheap SMC valves, what ever you want to use. There are only 2
>> lines
>> running to the air bags from the valve block.
>> The height sensors are mounted to the original mounting points using a
>> custom bracket.
>>
>> The controller itself is an 8 bit Atmel Automotive grade MCU, not an
>> Arduino, running fully custom C++. All the code is ours as is the PCB
>> design. (I
>> write firmware for a contact house doing everything from sprinkler
> systems
>> to Avionics to Medical if you worry about my credentials ) It has FET
>> drivers to control the solenoids. The controller fits into the stock
>> location and uses high end rocker switches and push buttons. It has LED
>> indicators to show you what it is doing.
>>
>> It has 2 RF remotes. One that is a keyfob, It provides up and down for
>> each wheel. This allows you to have complete manual control for dumping,
>> tire
>> changing etc.
>>
>> The other remote is for the steering wheel. it can control the coach
>> height up and down ( but not side to side ) for traversing speed bumps
> and
>> steep
>> drive ways. It also can enable travel mode or camp mode.
>>
>> Travel mode is a calibrated height for travel. Setting travel height is
> as
>> simple as using the keyfob to set height while you are at the back of the
>> coach measuring the actual height! No driving around or settling the
>> suspension is required. it just works.
>>
>> Camp mode is new. This is a feature found on high end systems where when
>> you pull into the campsite it will level you coach for camping. No
> Guessing,
>> no levels required. just press the button and it will adjust until the
>> coach is level.
>>
>>
>> It performs exceptionally well. It is capable of detecting you Leaning
>> from side to side standing by the dinnette, no it doesn't adjust that
>> closely.
>> I ran the prototype last summer and had no issues. I had it at the GMC
>> convention last fall.
>>
>> There is still work to be done, but I'm hoping to be delivering units in
>> the spring to a restricted set of installers.
>> --
>> Keith Vasilakes
>> Mounds View. MN
>> 75 ex Royale GMC
>> 69 Vette
>> 29 Dodge
>>
>>
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Gene Fisher -- 74-23,77PB/ore/ca
“Give a man a fish; you have fed him for today --- give him a URL and
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Alternator Protection Cable
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| Re: [GMCnet] Replacement Coach height control system [message #267987 is a reply to message #267939] |
Sun, 21 December 2014 17:15 |
jhbridges
Messages: 8412
Registered: May 2011
Location: Braselton ga
Karma: -74
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Senior Member |
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This sounds (superficially) like the Microprocessor Controlled Flashlight. The existing system works well, has the proper hysteresis, and replacement parts are available for not too much money. Over the years, mine has had J.R. Slaten valves and a ViAir compressor put in for the ooriginals. Should the controls fail, I'd price your vs rebuilds of the originals and fly with the cheapest.
--johnny
Foolish Carriage, 76 26' Eleganza(?) with beaucoup mods and add - ons.
Braselton, Ga.
I forgive them all, save those who hurt the dogs. They must answer to me in hell
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| Re: [GMCnet] Replacement Coach height control system [message #268009 is a reply to message #268004] |
Mon, 22 December 2014 08:58 |
kerry pinkerton
Messages: 2565
Registered: July 2012
Location: Harvest, Al
Karma: 15
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Senior Member |
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Sammy Williams wrote on Mon, 22 December 2014 07:19Has anyone ever considered a metal spring or leads to replace the air I'm
not an engineer by any means but I'd be willing to imagine a metal solution
to at least get interesting responses Sammy Williams
It's been done and is simple enough. HOWEVER, you lose much of what sets the GMC apart, that is, the ability to adjust ride height and level....not to mention auto level while traveling and ability to increase ground clearance on demand.
Kerry Pinkerton - North Alabama
Had 5 over the years. Currently have a '06 Fleetwood Discovery 39L
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| Re: [GMCnet] Replacement Coach height control system [message #268010 is a reply to message #268008] |
Mon, 22 December 2014 09:04 |
Mr ERFisher
Messages: 7117
Registered: August 2005
Karma: 2
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Senior Member |
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On Mon, Dec 22, 2014 at 6:49 AM, D C _Mac_ Macdonald
wrote:
>
> But that would NOT offer any means to control coach height!
>
> yup
erf
> ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~
> ~~ ~ D C "Mac" Macdonald ~ ~~
> ~ ~ Amateur Radio - K2GKK ~ ~
> ~ ~ USAF and FAA, Retired ~ ~
> ~ ~ ~ Oklahoma City, OK ~ ~ ~
> ~~ ~ ~ "The Money Pit" ~ ~ ~~
> ~ ~ ~ ~ TZE166V101966 ~ ~ ~ ~
> ~ ~ ~ '76 ex-Palm Beach ~ ~ ~
> ~~ k2gkk + hotmail dot com ~~
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> ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~
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> *[ ]~~~[][ ][|\
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>> Date: Mon, 22 Dec 2014 06:10:39 -0800
>> From: mr.erfisher@gmail.com
>> To: gmclist@temp.gmcnet.org
>> Subject: Re: [GMCnet] Replacement Coach height control system
>>
>> On Mon, Dec 22, 2014 at 5:19 AM, Sammy Williams
> wrote:
>>>
>>> Has anyone ever considered a metal spring or leads to replace the air
>>
>>
>> here go
>>
>>
>>
> http://www.gmcmhphotos.com/photos/air-bag-systems/p33968-bill-wever-forde-350-van-springs-incl-hanger.html
>>
>> erf
>>
>> I'm
>>> not an engineer by any means but I'd be willing to imagine a metal
> solution
>>> to at least get interesting responses Sammy Williams
>>> _______________________________________________
>>>
>>
>> --
>> Gene Fisher -- 74-23,77PB/ore/ca
>> “Give a man a fish; you have fed him for today --- give him a URL and
>> -------
>> http://gmcmotorhome.info/
>> Alternator Protection Cable
>> http://gmcmotorhome.info/APC.html
>
>
> _______________________________________________
> GMCnet mailing list
> Unsubscribe or Change List Options:
> http://temp.gmcnet.org/cgi-bin/mailman/listinfo/gmclist
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--
Gene Fisher -- 74-23,77PB/ore/ca
“Give a man a fish; you have fed him for today --- give him a URL and
-------
http://gmcmotorhome.info/
Alternator Protection Cable
http://gmcmotorhome.info/APC.html
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