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Old coaches vs new 'stuff' [message #193665] Sat, 22 December 2012 08:45 Go to previous message
kerry pinkerton is currently offline  kerry pinkerton   United States
Messages: 2565
Registered: July 2012
Location: Harvest, Al
Karma:
Senior Member
In light of Chris' "the hell with it thread", I got to thinking about the alternatives.

My folks retired while I was in the army in the early 70's. Dad bought a used travel trailer and they headed to Florida. Apparently came back happy because they purchased a new Holiday Rambler and new 1 ton 454 crew cab Chevy dually (that I still have). About every couple years, they'd upgrade to a different Holiday.

Dad was ALWAYS working on his 'system'. He had plumbing problems, leaks, loose stuff, electrical etc. Actually most of his problems were with the truck in spite of being new when he started. Within 5 years (still a new truck imo) he went through at least two radiators, carbs, transmission, tires, brakes, oil coolers, hoses, thermostats, fans and that is just what I recall. MOST his problems happened on the road and they roamed all over the US and Canada. My Mother was very laid back and did not drive so she just went with the flow.

My point is that 'stuff' indeed happens and Mr. Murphy is going to guarantee that it happens when we least want it to.

My wife and I went with them once and remarked "Who the hell wants to stay in a prison cell and hang around with a bunch of old farts?" Laughing Laughing

Times change don't they?

When Carolyn and I started thinking about doing some road traveling we first thought about a tow behind because I have a 2011 GMC 6 litter (piece of crap) pickup. After thinking about what Dad went through, I realized that the Motorhome would be a better fit.

Imo, stuff happens regardless of old or new. The main difference is that I have no hope of working on new. Did you know that 50% of the spark plugs on 4.6L Fords will break off when you try and remove them? Basically, unless you are very, very skilled, you are at the mercy of the dealerships these days. I've messed with cars my whole life. Built or rebuilt engines, brakes, suspension, etc...never done a tranny or rear end but this new stuff just can't be worked on by a shade tree guy BY FACTORY DESIGN. IMO, the margin has gotten so low on new vehicle sales, that the factories have made repairs pretty much a dealer only option because of special tools/processes required and that is where the dealerships really make their money.

As for me, I'd rather lay on my back on the gravel replacing a governor gear than be confronted with a flashing 'check engine' light that tells you that 1 of 27 different and expensive things could be causing it.

I could go on but you get the point.

That said, my wife is not as laid back as my Mom was. I can probably get away with getting stranded once but... Rolling Eyes
Shocked Shocked Shocked Shocked

Kerry Pinkerton - North Alabama Had 5 over the years. Currently have a '06 Fleetwood Discovery 39L

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