| Why GMC Cancelled the 1973-1978 GMC Motorhome [message #346032] |
Sun, 04 August 2019 10:46  |
bryant374
Messages: 563
Registered: May 2004
Location: Pleasant Valley, NY 12569
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Many of us have viewed the video entitled, "Why GMC Cancelled the 1973-1978 GMC Motorhome"
It's a very interesting video, but unfortunately reaches an erroneous conclusion. I am posting this comment because I believe the conclusion stated in this video needs to be corrected for historical purposes. The following can be found on the GMCMI website under the video section.
Respectfully,
Bill
Stated in this video is a conclusion that states, "short sighted bean counters decision" caused the GMC Motorhome to be discontinued. Financial accounting, bean counters, report on financial accounting facts. Based on these facts and possibly other judgements, management may make the decision to take action. In the case of the GMC Motorhome, it was GM management that decided to discontinue production.
The official reason given by GMC for that action was correct but incomplete. Not mentioned was a serious concern for the future, the design of a larger, heavier motorhome which is where the market was headed. It is important to remember the 1973 GMC motorhome had a 10,500 GVW, by 1978 it was 12,500. An increase of nearly 20% with few design changes to compensate for the increased loading. The original design used many passenger vehicle parts that were likely near reliable design limits. Many of these parts had been discontinued or were to be discontinued soon due to the auto industry down sizing.
What was GMC to do? A major redesign would have been required if the GMC motorhome were to continue. The cost of a major redesign would likely have been many millions of dollars. From a Corporation point of view I believe the appropriate decision was made. From a GMCer point of view, how sad!
A minor point, but one used in the video that causes confusion is the rear wheel design, stated as "side by side" a dual wheel description, the GMC is "tandem" two wheels "one behind the other".
Bill Bryant
PO 1976~PB (owned 34 years)
1914 Ford (owned 70 years)
1965 Corvette (owned 39 years)
GMC Motorhome History
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