Home » Public Forums » GMCnet » [GMCnet] 'New' Royale - issues
| [GMCnet] 'New' Royale - issues [message #217747] |
Sun, 11 August 2013 09:07  |
Jeff Marten
Messages: 199
Registered: August 2013
Karma: 1
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Senior Member |
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Well, I traded my BMW 850Ci for a '78 Royale (dry side bath) yesterday. Overall in pretty good condition. Has had many upgrades installed: quad bags, greasable front bearings, greasable sway bar caps, new greasable steering column linkage w/cv, 3.21 diff from a '66 Toro, rebuilt axles, shift kit, new shocks all around, new rear wheel bearings, new calipers, wheel cyl, pads and shoes, newer master cyl. Generator has been serviced and runs very well. Engine/trans have ~40k on rebuilds. Has 16" Alcoas including spare. All tires look brand new.
Needs: Drop-in stove top - someone replaced the counter and deleted the stove and installed a micro where the oven was. Headliner is beginning to sag in a few spots. Fridge needs a board - if you tweak the board a bit it'll run on propane, otherwise it won't. Wiper blades. Washer pump. Left side bags have a leak somewhere. Once they're pressurized the bags hold pressure if the valve is closed for the feed line. Leak must be between the valve and compressor. Needs a lower bracket for one of the skirts to work with the quads. About 1/2 the dash & indicator lights are out.
Super needs: It will not be driven again except to a shop so I can figure out what is wrong with the front end. At 70+ it's nearly uncontrollable. Wanders all over the road. Not just meandering, normal RV type wandering, but sharp jumps left/right. Feels like either worn parts allowing a wheel to move, worn steering box, or possibly just a bad alignment. It was mentally exhausting driving it, and scared the $#@# out of me a few times. My hands are sore today from a 7hr white knuckle ride.
Please tell the something is jacked up in the steering system - if this is normal steering behavior it'll hit craigslist today.
Here's links to a couple pics I grabbed with my cell.
http://www.vintagejetboats.com/attachment.php?attachmentid=11484&d=1376227070&thumb=1
http://www.vintagejetboats.com/attachment.php?attachmentid=11482&d=1376226801&thumb=1
Hopefully there is an issue, I can get it fixed and start enjoying the coach soon!
Jeff
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1985 Gulf Stream 34' Sun Stream
1964 Falcon 'Vert
1980 Bradley GTE
1999 Chevy Tahoe
2005 Saab 93 Aero
1987 Suzuki Intruder 1400
1978 Glastron/Carlson CV23
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| Re: [GMCnet] 'New' Royale - issues [message #217753 is a reply to message #217747] |
Sun, 11 August 2013 09:28  |
kerry pinkerton
Messages: 2565
Registered: July 2012
Location: Harvest, Al
Karma: 15
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Welcome to the cult Jeff.
My 77 Elle drove the same way. REALLY wore me out to drive it and anything over 55 was really nerve wracking. I put spacers on the front wheels to get them in the same track as the rears and it really helped the rut wandering. Spacers seem to help some people and do nothing for others. Your mileage may vary.
The first thing to check is ride height. Having the rear too high will change the camber which is too little anyway. The manual tells you the height spec...irrc it's 11 5/8" or so to the middle of the hole in the frame behind the bogies.
Installing the Manny Brakes on the rear (Reaction Arm type system) also helped the rut wander...not really sure why other than I believe it keeps the bogie arms from bending as easily.
I also have the Manny 1 ton in a box in the shop waiting for time to install it.
Kerry Pinkerton - North Alabama
Had 5 over the years. Currently have a '06 Fleetwood Discovery 39L
[Updated on: Sun, 11 August 2013 09:30] Report message to a moderator |
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| Re: [GMCnet] 'New' Royale - issues [message #217757 is a reply to message #217747] |
Sun, 11 August 2013 09:37 |
habbyguy
Messages: 896
Registered: May 2012
Location: Mesa, AZ
Karma: 3
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Senior Member |
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Congrats on the swap. Pound for pound, you came out WAY ahead! I'm also a BMW guy, and have a '78 Royale (center kitchen though) so our paths are similar, down to the handling.
When I bought my coach, it was in west Los Angeles, and I got to drive it across LA in evening rush hour traffic. It was also a handful to drive, though I wouldn't call it "sharp jumps". Just a tendency to want to go anywhere but straight. I've diagnosed the issues over the months and miles, and here's what I found - there was no "instant fix", but each step made a significant improvement until now it's an easy two-finger driver...
1) The steering column CV boot was missing, and the CV joint was dry and just a tad loose. Removed it, greased it, and replaced the boot, and it got better.
2) Took off on a road trip, and it still wandered a whole lot more than it should. I did some more diagnosis, and saw that most of the play was in the steering box (lots of movement at the input before anything happened at the output). I did my best to locate the "center" (do a search on adjusting the box), and tightened the box adjuster in place. There are those who will say that this will cause the coach to burst into flames, but in my case all it did was reduce the steering wheel free play from about 2.5" to well under 1".
3) Tightened up the bolt holding the aftermarket steering wheel on... I had thought the play I was feeling was in the column, but it was just the one big nut holding the wheel on. It loosened up once more, so I have to keep an eye on it.
4) Installed a set of Straight Track bogie devices (they keep the front bogies from deflecting on "truck ruts" or if you drop a wheel off the edge of the road. BIG difference in the handling and well worth the cost and effort. I only put them on the front bogies because the rear ones really want to track right (since it's a trailing arm set-up, but you're a BMW guy so you know these things). 
5) After all this, the coach handled a LOT better, but still had an odd tendency to want to go left or right. I was doing something else to coach and had the left front wheel off. Just for grins, I grabbed the disc and gave a good wiggle and saw about 1/4" vertical movement in the relay arm. Yep, that'll do some harm... I replaced this with a Dave Lenzi rebuilt arm, and it really took care of the last problem with the handling of my coach.
Now I can drive with a couple fingers on the wheel. The control arm bushings are fairly old and sad looking, and I'm sure the handling would improve a bit if I replaced 'em, but I'm planning to wait and do a 1-ton front end when I need wheel bearings.
How bad WAS my coach? It was at the very least very annoying. OTOH, after I'd fixed most of the problems my wife tried driving for the first time, and scared herself (and me...) half to death by over-correcting the "wanders" on a 70mph interstate. That lasted about 1/2 mile and I resumed the driving duties for the rest of the 5,000 mile round trip. I don't think she'll have any problems driving it now though, although the problem in her case is a lot more about technique than mechanics.
Good luck with your coach - I'd recommend having someone crank the wheel back and forth while you crawl around underneath and look for problems - namely, where there's an "input" that is bigger than the "output" (whether CV joint, steering box, tie rod end, etc.). The good news is that everything is a lot more accessible than in an 850i!
Mark Hickey
Mesa, AZ
1978 Royale Center Kitchen
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| Re: [GMCnet] 'New' Royale - issues [message #217759 is a reply to message #217747] |
Sun, 11 August 2013 09:43 |
jhbridges
Messages: 8412
Registered: May 2011
Location: Braselton ga
Karma: -74
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Senior Member |
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Jeff, where are ya? I got a Magic Chef propane drop in stove/oven out of my SOB. Needs to be cleaned up.
--johnny
Braselton, GA
--------------------------------------------
On Sun, 8/11/13, Jeff Marten <jtmarten@msn.com> wrote:
Subject: [GMCnet] 'New' Royale - issues
To: "gmclist@temp.gmcnet.org" <gmclist@temp.gmcnet.org>
Date: Sunday, August 11, 2013, 2:07 PM
Well, I traded my BMW 850Ci for a '78
Royale (dry side bath) yesterday. Overall in pretty
good condition. Has had many upgrades installed:
quad bags, greasable front bearings, greasable sway bar
caps, new greasable steering column linkage w/cv, 3.21 diff
from a '66 Toro, rebuilt axles, shift kit, new shocks all
around, new rear wheel bearings, new calipers, wheel cyl,
pads and shoes, newer master cyl. Generator has been
serviced and runs very well. Engine/trans have ~40k on
rebuilds. Has 16" Alcoas including spare. All
tires look brand new.
Needs: Drop-in stove top - someone replaced the
counter and deleted the stove and installed a micro where
the oven was. Headliner is beginning to sag in a few
spots. Fridge needs a board - if you tweak the board a
bit it'll run on propane, otherwise it won't. Wiper
blades. Washer pump. Left side bags have a leak
somewhere. Once they're pressurized the bags hold
pressure if the valve is closed for the feed line.
Leak must be between the valve and compressor. Needs a
lower bracket for one of the skirts to work with the
quads. About 1/2 the dash & indicator lights are
out.
Super needs: It will not be driven again except to a
shop so I can figure out what is wrong with the front
end. At 70+ it's nearly uncontrollable. Wanders
all over the road. Not just meandering, normal RV type
wandering, but sharp jumps left/right. Feels like
either worn parts allowing a wheel to move, worn steering
box, or possibly just a bad alignment. It was mentally
exhausting driving it, and scared the $#@# out of me a few
times. My hands are sore today from a 7hr white
knuckle ride.
Please tell the something is jacked up in the steering
system - if this is normal steering behavior it'll hit
craigslist today.
Here's links to a couple pics I grabbed with my cell.
http://www.vintagejetboats.com/attachment.php?attachmentid=11484&d=1376227070&thumb=1
http://www.vintagejetboats.com/attachment.php?attachmentid=11482&d=1376226801&thumb=1
Hopefully there is an issue, I can get it fixed and start
enjoying the coach soon!
Jeff
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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] 'New' Royale - issues [message #217762 is a reply to message #217747] |
Sun, 11 August 2013 10:17 |
Jeff Marten
Messages: 199
Registered: August 2013
Karma: 1
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Senior Member |
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Thanks everyone for the great info! Glad to hear it's not normal handling.
Guess I'll start checking the system from the steering column and work my way to the wheels.
The PO has a folder full of invoices and info he received when he bought it. Guess the PO to him kept detailed records, including fuel stops and # gallons used. He forgot to bring it, so he'll be sending it to me this week. Will be good to see what work was performed.
I'm located in Colorado Springs.
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1985 Gulf Stream 34' Sun Stream
1964 Falcon 'Vert
1980 Bradley GTE
1999 Chevy Tahoe
2005 Saab 93 Aero
1987 Suzuki Intruder 1400
1978 Glastron/Carlson CV23
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| Re: [GMCnet] 'New' Royale - issues [message #217764 is a reply to message #217747] |
Sun, 11 August 2013 10:26 |
powerjon
Messages: 2446
Registered: January 2004
Karma: 5
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Senior Member |
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Jeff,
One other that you could do is put where you live so we can better point you to help near you. Second thought, did you get the owners manual for your coach and do you have the Maintenance Manuals for the year coach that you have. If not go here and download. Very important!
http://www.bdub.net/manuals/coachmen_owners_manual-1978.pdf
http://www.bdub.net/manuals/parts/index.html
This one is the full manual.
http://www.bdub.net/manuals/X7525/index.html
This is the supplement to the full manual.
http://www.bdub.net/manuals/X7725/index.html
You want to reinstall the drop in stove? Everyone I know that has remodel the interior has taken it out because the oven never gets used. I mounted a convection/microwave above the cooktop and built in extra storage underneath the cooktop in our first coach. Storage is a premium in these coaches.
http://www.gmcmhphotos.com/photos/interior-restoration/p378.html
http://www.gmcmhphotos.com/photos/interior-restoration/p382.html
http://www.gmcmhphotos.com/photos/interior-restoration/p381.html
Headliner can be replaced by many different kinds of material. I personally chose to go with new 3/16 inch luan panel as a backer and Foss headliner material. Can be cleaned like a carpet and keeps interior noise down. Some have used the White FRP plastic and it works well but the interior noise can be distracting.
http://gmcmotorhome.info/living.html#head
Does the coach have EL-1 or EL-2 air systems? Need info look here:
http://www.bdub.net/manuals/Electro-Level.pdf
http://gmcmotorhome.info/levelsch.htm
http://www.gmcws.org/Tech/dsimmons/air_suspension/air-suspension-system.html
Dash light bulb specification for your coach are listed on page 12-12 of the X7725 maintenance manual, which you have now downloaded.
What make and model Frig do you have?
What wiper arms do you have? The factory straight or the APV/Lumina Bent arms?
You need to join the regional GMC club in your area, where ever that is and I would suggest also joining GMCMI.
http://www.gmcmi.com
As for your front end issues there is differently something very wrong with it. The group here is very talented and you will get many ideas on what to check and look for.
By all means there are certain items that you can buy locally and our vendors can be one stop shopping for your specific needs.
http://www.gmcmh.com
http://www.appliedgmc.com
http://www.thegmcmotorhomepeople.com
http://www.gmccoop.com
http://grandviewmotorhome.com
And Lastly, ENJOY you GMC and the GMC Friends you will make.
JR Wright
GMC Great Laker MHC
GMC Eastern States
GMCMHI
78 Buskirk 30' Stretch
1975 Avion (Under Reconstruction)
Michigan
On Aug 11, 2013, at 10:07 AM, Jeff Marten <jtmarten@msn.com> wrote:
> Well, I traded my BMW 850Ci for a '78 Royale (dry side bath) yesterday. Overall in pretty good condition. Has had many upgrades installed: quad bags, greasable front bearings, greasable sway bar caps, new greasable steering column linkage w/cv, 3.21 diff from a '66 Toro, rebuilt axles, shift kit, new shocks all around, new rear wheel bearings, new calipers, wheel cyl, pads and shoes, newer master cyl. Generator has been serviced and runs very well. Engine/trans have ~40k on rebuilds. Has 16" Alcoas including spare. All tires look brand new.
>
> Needs: Drop-in stove top - someone replaced the counter and deleted the stove and installed a micro where the oven was. Headliner is beginning to sag in a few spots. Fridge needs a board - if you tweak the board a bit it'll run on propane, otherwise it won't. Wiper blades. Washer pump. Left side bags have a leak somewhere. Once they're pressurized the bags hold pressure if the valve is closed for the feed line. Leak must be between the valve and compressor. Needs a lower bracket for one of the skirts to work with the quads. About 1/2 the dash & indicator lights are out.
>
> Super needs: It will not be driven again except to a shop so I can figure out what is wrong with the front end. At 70+ it's nearly uncontrollable. Wanders all over the road. Not just meandering, normal RV type wandering, but sharp jumps left/right. Feels like either worn parts allowing a wheel to move, worn steering box, or possibly just a bad alignment. It was mentally exhausting driving it, and scared the $#@# out of me a few times. My hands are sore today from a 7hr white knuckle ride.
>
> Please tell the something is jacked up in the steering system - if this is normal steering behavior it'll hit craigslist today.
>
> Here's links to a couple pics I grabbed with my cell.
> http://www.vintagejetboats.com/attachment.php?attachmentid=11484&d=1376227070&thumb=1
> http://www.vintagejetboats.com/attachment.php?attachmentid=11482&d=1376226801&thumb=1
>
> Hopefully there is an issue, I can get it fixed and start enjoying the coach soon!
> Jeff
>
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Unsubscribe or Change List Options:
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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] 'New' Royale - issues [message #217766 is a reply to message #217747] |
Sun, 11 August 2013 10:36 |
Carl S.
Messages: 4186
Registered: January 2009
Location: Tucson, AZ.
Karma: 13
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Senior Member |
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Congratulations on the coach. It looks like a nice one. I think the wheels are "Weld"" wheels rather than Alcoas. No issue there.
The handling/steering issues you are experiencing are absolutely NOT normal. Some people have given up on their coaches and sold them over that kind of problem when they just haven't gone far enough in making repairs. Usually steering issues creep up on a long time owner so that they don't notice them. A new person gets in and drives the coach and the problems become apparent. Our front end experts will probably tell you that virtually every moving (wearable) part needs to be replaced. This is good advice.
Dan's recommendation to go with the 1-ton front end is a good one in terms of future serviceability. I went the other route and am satisfied with the results. I have NOT replaced everything YET, but I'm sure I will eventually. while my coach never exhibited any of the really bad handling characteristics some have encountered, I started at the outside and am working in. I replaced my hub/knuckle/bearing assemblies with Dave Lenzi's excellent rebuilds. and did the reconditioned upper and lower control arms, including urethane bushings (lower) and ball joints. My relay arm seems to be nice and tight, but I'm sure there is a small amount of play in the rod ends, and my steering box could use a rebuild.
I can still drive my coach with one hand loosely on the steering wheel at any speed. Noe of the things that made a major difference was getting the rear bogies under better control through the installation of the Chuck Aulgur Reaction Arm disc brake system. The sway bars used in that system serve to help keep the bogies aligned, preventing the rear end from steering the coach.
You CAN get the GMC under control. When you do, you will find that t drives like a big car. Don't give up.
Carl Stouffer
'75 ex Palm Beach
Tucson, AZ.
Chuck Aulgur Reaction Arm Disc Brakes, Quadrabags, 3.70 LSD final drive, Lenzi knuckles/hubs, Dodge Truck 16" X 8" front wheels, Rear American Eagles, Solar battery charging. GMCSJ and GMCMI member
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| Re: [GMCnet] 'New' Royale - issues [message #217772 is a reply to message #217762] |
Sun, 11 August 2013 12:48 |
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Jeff, Pay particular attention to the tie-rod ends. When Manny did my 1
ton upgrade, the coach
would jump all over the place when accelerating or decelerating. All 4
tie-rod ends were bad.
Replaced those and the problem went away.
I STRONGLY suggest (as others have) that you look into the 1-ton kit.
Call Jim K and see what
he thinks and the order the kit from him.
On 8/11/2013 8:17 AM, Jeff Marten wrote:
> Thanks everyone for the great info! Glad to hear it's not normal handling.
> Guess I'll start checking the system from the steering column and work my way to the wheels.
> The PO has a folder full of invoices and info he received when he bought it. Guess the PO to him kept detailed records, including fuel stops and # gallons used. He forgot to bring it, so he'll be sending it to me this week. Will be good to see what work was performed.
>
> I'm located in Colorado Springs.
>
> _______________________________________________
> GMCnet mailing list
> Unsubscribe or Change List Options:
> http://temp.gmcnet.org/cgi-bin/mailman/listinfo/gmclist
>
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Terry Taylor
'74 ex-Eleganza SE
San Lorenzo, CA
http://www.n6mon.org
http://dldesignstore.com
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| Re: [GMCnet] 'New' Royale - issues [message #217781 is a reply to message #217747] |
Sun, 11 August 2013 13:12 |
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USAussie
Messages: 15912
Registered: July 2007
Location: Sydney, Australia
Karma: 6
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Senior Member |
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G'day,
First if all what you described below is not normal.
SURPRISE! I'm not going to tell you to buy anything or spend ANY money AT ALL!
At least not until you KNOW exactly what is causing the problem.
Unless you're going to drive it to a shop that specializes in GMC's I wouldn't do that. John Sharpe just told me about a guy that
brought his GMC to a shop and they're into him for $7000 for front end work!! YES SEVEN THOUSAND DOLLARS to fix the steering / front
end.
Quite frankly most shops don't know shit from shineola when it comes to the GMC, they'll tell you the do and that they've worked on
many. If the shop you take it do does that ask them to see the Maintenance Manuals and Parts Book. Bet they won't have them!
With the help of a number of GMC experts I put together this procedure to find out what the condition of EVERY component in the
steering system.
It's NOT rocket science merely a simple LOGICAL step by step procedure that starts at the steering wheel and ends up at the tie rod
ends of both wheels.
I'm sure you and one of your buddies can go through this:
http://www.gmceast.com/technical/Mueller_Steering_Inspection_Guide.pdf
Regards,
Rob M.
-----Original Message-----
From: gmclist-bounces@temp.gmcnet.org [mailto:gmclist-bounces@temp.gmcnet.org] On Behalf Of Jeff Marten
Sent: Sunday, August 11, 2013 9:07 AM
To: gmclist@temp.gmcnet.org
Subject: [GMCnet] 'New' Royale - issues
Well, I traded my BMW 850Ci for a '78 Royale (dry side bath) yesterday. Overall in pretty good condition. Has had many upgrades
installed: quad bags, greasable front bearings, greasable sway bar caps, new greasable steering column linkage w/cv, 3.21 diff from
a '66 Toro, rebuilt axles, shift kit, new shocks all around, new rear wheel bearings, new calipers, wheel cyl, pads and shoes, newer
master cyl. Generator has been serviced and runs very well. Engine/trans have ~40k on rebuilds. Has 16" Alcoas including spare.
All tires look brand new.
Needs: Drop-in stove top - someone replaced the counter and deleted the stove and installed a micro where the oven was. Headliner
is beginning to sag in a few spots. Fridge needs a board - if you tweak the board a bit it'll run on propane, otherwise it won't.
Wiper blades. Washer pump. Left side bags have a leak somewhere. Once they're pressurized the bags hold pressure if the valve is
closed for the feed line. Leak must be between the valve and compressor. Needs a lower bracket for one of the skirts to work with
the quads. About 1/2 the dash & indicator lights are out.
Super needs: It will not be driven again except to a shop so I can figure out what is wrong with the front end. At 70+ it's nearly
uncontrollable. Wanders all over the road. Not just meandering, normal RV type wandering, but sharp jumps left/right. Feels like
either worn parts allowing a wheel to move, worn steering box, or possibly just a bad alignment. It was mentally exhausting driving
it, and scared the $#@# out of me a few times. My hands are sore today from a 7hr white knuckle ride.
Please tell the something is jacked up in the steering system - if this is normal steering behavior it'll hit craigslist today.
Here's links to a couple pics I grabbed with my cell.
http://www.vintagejetboats.com/attachment.php?attachmentid=11484&d=1376227070&thumb=1
http://www.vintagejetboats.com/attachment.php?attachmentid=11482&d=1376226801&thumb=1
Hopefully there is an issue, I can get it fixed and start enjoying the coach soon!
Jeff
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Regards,
Rob M. (USAussie)
The Pedantic Mechanic
Sydney, Australia
'75 Avion - AUS - The Blue Streak TZE365V100428
'75 Avion - USA - Double Trouble TZE365V100426
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| Re: [GMCnet] 'New' Royale - issues [message #217783 is a reply to message #217762] |
Sun, 11 August 2013 13:22 |
Bruce Hart
Messages: 1501
Registered: October 2011
Location: La Grange, Wyoming
Karma: 5
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Senior Member |
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On Sun, Aug 11, 2013 at 9:17 AM, Jeff Marten <jtmarten@msn.com> wrote:
>
> I'm located in Colorado Springs.
>
Hey neighbor, great looking coach. As Kerry mention one of the first steps
is to get the ride height at the correct level. Once done you will notice
that the back rides lower than the front ( like an alligator and drags
ass). My first PalmBeach was 1" high on the front end and I don't recall
now what the rear was set at. When I drove it home from Minneapolis, I was
stopped by a Nebraska State Trooper and was told if I can't keep it
straight going down the road get off the interstate!!
> _______________________________________________
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--
Bruce Hart
1976 Palm Beach
Milliken, Co
GMC=Got More Class
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Bruce Hart
1976 Palm Beach
1977 28' Kingsley
La Grange, Wyoming
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| Re: [GMCnet] 'New' Royale - issues [message #217813 is a reply to message #217764] |
Sun, 11 August 2013 14:57 |
Jeff Marten
Messages: 199
Registered: August 2013
Karma: 1
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Senior Member |
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Thanks for the links. I did receive both original manuals, also the TransMode manual. I'll have to add a signature to include location.
Colorado Springs, Co.
> From: powerjon@chartermi.net
> Date: Sun, 11 Aug 2013 11:26:55 -0400
> To: gmclist@temp.gmcnet.org
> Subject: Re: [GMCnet] 'New' Royale - issues
>
> Jeff,
>
> One other that you could do is put where you live so we can better point you to help near you. Second thought, did you get the owners manual for your coach and do you have the Maintenance Manuals for the year coach that you have. If not go here and download. Very important!
>
> http://www.bdub.net/manuals/coachmen_owners_manual-1978.pdf
> http://www.bdub.net/manuals/parts/index.html
> This one is the full manual.
> http://www.bdub.net/manuals/X7525/index.html
> This is the supplement to the full manual.
> http://www.bdub.net/manuals/X7725/index.html
>
> You want to reinstall the drop in stove? Everyone I know that has remodel the interior has taken it out because the oven never gets used. I mounted a convection/microwave above the cooktop and built in extra storage underneath the cooktop in our first coach. Storage is a premium in these coaches.
>
> http://www.gmcmhphotos.com/photos/interior-restoration/p378.html
> http://www.gmcmhphotos.com/photos/interior-restoration/p382.html
> http://www.gmcmhphotos.com/photos/interior-restoration/p381.html
>
> Headliner can be replaced by many different kinds of material. I personally chose to go with new 3/16 inch luan panel as a backer and Foss headliner material. Can be cleaned like a carpet and keeps interior noise down. Some have used the White FRP plastic and it works well but the interior noise can be distracting.
>
> http://gmcmotorhome.info/living.html#head
>
> Does the coach have EL-1 or EL-2 air systems? Need info look here:
>
> http://www.bdub.net/manuals/Electro-Level.pdf
> http://gmcmotorhome.info/levelsch.htm
> http://www.gmcws.org/Tech/dsimmons/air_suspension/air-suspension-system.html
>
> Dash light bulb specification for your coach are listed on page 12-12 of the X7725 maintenance manual, which you have now downloaded.
>
> What make and model Frig do you have?
>
> What wiper arms do you have? The factory straight or the APV/Lumina Bent arms?
>
> You need to join the regional GMC club in your area, where ever that is and I would suggest also joining GMCMI.
>
> http://www.gmcmi.com
>
> As for your front end issues there is differently something very wrong with it. The group here is very talented and you will get many ideas on what to check and look for.
>
> By all means there are certain items that you can buy locally and our vendors can be one stop shopping for your specific needs.
>
> http://www.gmcmh.com
> http://www.appliedgmc.com
> http://www.thegmcmotorhomepeople.com
> http://www.gmccoop.com
> http://grandviewmotorhome.com
>
> And Lastly, ENJOY you GMC and the GMC Friends you will make.
>
> JR Wright
> GMC Great Laker MHC
> GMC Eastern States
> GMCMHI
> 78 Buskirk 30' Stretch
> 1975 Avion (Under Reconstruction)
> Michigan
>
> On Aug 11, 2013, at 10:07 AM, Jeff Marten <jtmarten@msn.com> wrote:
>
> > Well, I traded my BMW 850Ci for a '78 Royale (dry side bath) yesterday. Overall in pretty good condition. Has had many upgrades installed: quad bags, greasable front bearings, greasable sway bar caps, new greasable steering column linkage w/cv, 3.21 diff from a '66 Toro, rebuilt axles, shift kit, new shocks all around, new rear wheel bearings, new calipers, wheel cyl, pads and shoes, newer master cyl. Generator has been serviced and runs very well. Engine/trans have ~40k on rebuilds. Has 16" Alcoas including spare. All tires look brand new.
> >
> > Needs: Drop-in stove top - someone replaced the counter and deleted the stove and installed a micro where the oven was. Headliner is beginning to sag in a few spots. Fridge needs a board - if you tweak the board a bit it'll run on propane, otherwise it won't. Wiper blades. Washer pump. Left side bags have a leak somewhere. Once they're pressurized the bags hold pressure if the valve is closed for the feed line. Leak must be between the valve and compressor. Needs a lower bracket for one of the skirts to work with the quads. About 1/2 the dash & indicator lights are out.
> >
> > Super needs: It will not be driven again except to a shop so I can figure out what is wrong with the front end. At 70+ it's nearly uncontrollable. Wanders all over the road. Not just meandering, normal RV type wandering, but sharp jumps left/right. Feels like either worn parts allowing a wheel to move, worn steering box, or possibly just a bad alignment. It was mentally exhausting driving it, and scared the $#@# out of me a few times. My hands are sore today from a 7hr white knuckle ride.
> >
> > Please tell the something is jacked up in the steering system - if this is normal steering behavior it'll hit craigslist today.
> >
> > Here's links to a couple pics I grabbed with my cell.
> > http://www.vintagejetboats.com/attachment.php?attachmentid=11484&d=1376227070&thumb=1
> > http://www.vintagejetboats.com/attachment.php?attachmentid=11482&d=1376226801&thumb=1
> >
> > Hopefully there is an issue, I can get it fixed and start enjoying the coach soon!
> > Jeff
> >
>
> _______________________________________________
> GMCnet mailing list
> Unsubscribe or Change List Options:
> http://temp.gmcnet.org/cgi-bin/mailman/listinfo/gmclist
_______________________________________________
GMCnet mailing list
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1985 Gulf Stream 34' Sun Stream
1964 Falcon 'Vert
1980 Bradley GTE
1999 Chevy Tahoe
2005 Saab 93 Aero
1987 Suzuki Intruder 1400
1978 Glastron/Carlson CV23
|
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| Re: [GMCnet] 'New' Royale - issues [message #217815 is a reply to message #217781] |
Sun, 11 August 2013 15:01 |
Jeff Marten
Messages: 199
Registered: August 2013
Karma: 1
|
Senior Member |
|
|
Thanks Rob, this looks helpful!
> From: robmueller@iinet.net.au
> To: gmclist@temp.gmcnet.org
> Date: Sun, 11 Aug 2013 13:12:14 -0500
> Subject: Re: [GMCnet] 'New' Royale - issues
>
> G'day,
>
> First if all what you described below is not normal.
>
> SURPRISE! I'm not going to tell you to buy anything or spend ANY money AT ALL!
>
> At least not until you KNOW exactly what is causing the problem.
>
> Unless you're going to drive it to a shop that specializes in GMC's I wouldn't do that. John Sharpe just told me about a guy that
> brought his GMC to a shop and they're into him for $7000 for front end work!! YES SEVEN THOUSAND DOLLARS to fix the steering / front
> end.
>
> Quite frankly most shops don't know shit from shineola when it comes to the GMC, they'll tell you the do and that they've worked on
> many. If the shop you take it do does that ask them to see the Maintenance Manuals and Parts Book. Bet they won't have them!
>
> With the help of a number of GMC experts I put together this procedure to find out what the condition of EVERY component in the
> steering system.
>
> It's NOT rocket science merely a simple LOGICAL step by step procedure that starts at the steering wheel and ends up at the tie rod
> ends of both wheels.
>
> I'm sure you and one of your buddies can go through this:
>
> http://www.gmceast.com/technical/Mueller_Steering_Inspection_Guide.pdf
>
> Regards,
> Rob M.
>
>
>
> -----Original Message-----
> From: gmclist-bounces@temp.gmcnet.org [mailto:gmclist-bounces@temp.gmcnet.org] On Behalf Of Jeff Marten
> Sent: Sunday, August 11, 2013 9:07 AM
> To: gmclist@temp.gmcnet.org
> Subject: [GMCnet] 'New' Royale - issues
>
> Well, I traded my BMW 850Ci for a '78 Royale (dry side bath) yesterday. Overall in pretty good condition. Has had many upgrades
> installed: quad bags, greasable front bearings, greasable sway bar caps, new greasable steering column linkage w/cv, 3.21 diff from
> a '66 Toro, rebuilt axles, shift kit, new shocks all around, new rear wheel bearings, new calipers, wheel cyl, pads and shoes, newer
> master cyl. Generator has been serviced and runs very well. Engine/trans have ~40k on rebuilds. Has 16" Alcoas including spare.
> All tires look brand new.
>
> Needs: Drop-in stove top - someone replaced the counter and deleted the stove and installed a micro where the oven was. Headliner
> is beginning to sag in a few spots. Fridge needs a board - if you tweak the board a bit it'll run on propane, otherwise it won't.
> Wiper blades. Washer pump. Left side bags have a leak somewhere. Once they're pressurized the bags hold pressure if the valve is
> closed for the feed line. Leak must be between the valve and compressor. Needs a lower bracket for one of the skirts to work with
> the quads. About 1/2 the dash & indicator lights are out.
>
> Super needs: It will not be driven again except to a shop so I can figure out what is wrong with the front end. At 70+ it's nearly
> uncontrollable. Wanders all over the road. Not just meandering, normal RV type wandering, but sharp jumps left/right. Feels like
> either worn parts allowing a wheel to move, worn steering box, or possibly just a bad alignment. It was mentally exhausting driving
> it, and scared the $#@# out of me a few times. My hands are sore today from a 7hr white knuckle ride.
>
> Please tell the something is jacked up in the steering system - if this is normal steering behavior it'll hit craigslist today.
>
> Here's links to a couple pics I grabbed with my cell.
> http://www.vintagejetboats.com/attachment.php?attachmentid=11484&d=1376227070&thumb=1
> http://www.vintagejetboats.com/attachment.php?attachmentid=11482&d=1376226801&thumb=1
>
> Hopefully there is an issue, I can get it fixed and start enjoying the coach soon!
> Jeff
>
>
>
>
> _______________________________________________
> 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
1985 Gulf Stream 34' Sun Stream
1964 Falcon 'Vert
1980 Bradley GTE
1999 Chevy Tahoe
2005 Saab 93 Aero
1987 Suzuki Intruder 1400
1978 Glastron/Carlson CV23
|
|
|
|
| Re: [GMCnet] 'New' Royale - issues [message #217816 is a reply to message #217783] |
Sun, 11 August 2013 15:03 |
Jeff Marten
Messages: 199
Registered: August 2013
Karma: 1
|
Senior Member |
|
|
I think this may be part of the problem. He had ~100psi in the quad bags, the rear is def a bit higher than the front. The outer edge of both front tires are worn a bit, so something is amiss up front.
> Date: Sun, 11 Aug 2013 12:22:31 -0600
> From: hartsgmc@gmail.com
> To: gmclist@temp.gmcnet.org
> Subject: Re: [GMCnet] 'New' Royale - issues
>
> On Sun, Aug 11, 2013 at 9:17 AM, Jeff Marten <jtmarten@msn.com> wrote:
>
> >
> > I'm located in Colorado Springs.
> >
>
> Hey neighbor, great looking coach. As Kerry mention one of the first steps
> is to get the ride height at the correct level. Once done you will notice
> that the back rides lower than the front ( like an alligator and drags
> ass). My first PalmBeach was 1" high on the front end and I don't recall
> now what the rear was set at. When I drove it home from Minneapolis, I was
> stopped by a Nebraska State Trooper and was told if I can't keep it
> straight going down the road get off the interstate!!
>
>
>
>
> > _______________________________________________
> > GMCnet mailing list
> > Unsubscribe or Change List Options:
> > http://temp.gmcnet.org/cgi-bin/mailman/listinfo/gmclist
> >
>
>
>
> --
> Bruce Hart
> 1976 Palm Beach
> Milliken, Co
> GMC=Got More Class
> _______________________________________________
> 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:
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1985 Gulf Stream 34' Sun Stream
1964 Falcon 'Vert
1980 Bradley GTE
1999 Chevy Tahoe
2005 Saab 93 Aero
1987 Suzuki Intruder 1400
1978 Glastron/Carlson CV23
|
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|
|
| Re: [GMCnet] 'New' Royale - issues [message #217822 is a reply to message #217764] |
Sun, 11 August 2013 15:12 |
Jeff Marten
Messages: 199
Registered: August 2013
Karma: 1
|
Senior Member |
|
|
I'm going to keep the micro there, just get a 3-burner drop-in w/no oven. Agreed, I see no use for an oven in an RV, unless it's Betty Crocker's RV.
I don't know if it's EL-1 or EL-2, I'll have to research it.
I looked for a model #, can't find one. It may be a replacement; thought it would have a sticker on the interior or an inside edge of a door, but nothing.
Original arms. Will replace the blades for now, upgrade to a new washer reservoir/pump so I have washers at least. I'll start other upgrades after I sort out the front end.
I'll be joining GMCMI and/or a local (Denver) group soon.
> You want to reinstall the drop in stove? Everyone I know that has remodel the interior has taken it out because the oven never gets used. I mounted a convection/microwave above the cooktop and built in extra storage underneath the cooktop in our first coach. Storage is a premium in these coaches.
> Does the coach have EL-1 or EL-2 air systems? Need info look here:
> What make and model Frig do you have?
>
> What wiper arms do you have? The factory straight or the APV/Lumina Bent arms?
>
_______________________________________________
GMCnet mailing list
Unsubscribe or Change List Options:
http://temp.gmcnet.org/cgi-bin/mailman/listinfo/gmclist
1985 Gulf Stream 34' Sun Stream
1964 Falcon 'Vert
1980 Bradley GTE
1999 Chevy Tahoe
2005 Saab 93 Aero
1987 Suzuki Intruder 1400
1978 Glastron/Carlson CV23
|
|
|
|
|
|
| Re: [GMCnet] 'New' Royale - issues [message #217836 is a reply to message #217825] |
Sun, 11 August 2013 16:54 |
Carl S.
Messages: 4186
Registered: January 2009
Location: Tucson, AZ.
Karma: 13
|
Senior Member |
|
|
Jeff,
Another thing I just thought of is tire inflation and type. If the tires are all steel, they tend to catch ruts, and if tires are over inflated for the load, the handling will be adversely affected. most of us run our tires at around 65 psi or less, depending on the weight per tire. It is a common mistake to run the tires at the maximum pressure (for example 80 psi for a LR-E). Proper inflation will go a long way toward good handling and steering.
Carl Stouffer
'75 ex Palm Beach
Tucson, AZ.
Chuck Aulgur Reaction Arm Disc Brakes, Quadrabags, 3.70 LSD final drive, Lenzi knuckles/hubs, Dodge Truck 16" X 8" front wheels, Rear American Eagles, Solar battery charging. GMCSJ and GMCMI member
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