While at the Guru Rally my family hiked a mountain called Crow Peak. As we crossed Spearfish we spied this old coach off an alley with some other RV's and cars. I did not call on it because mine is enough work already but what year do you suppose it is?
[
attachment=1349]
not sure about these older Bluebirds. I was looking into those when we found our Newell. Still great looking!!
Built like tanks with similar weight. Engine is in the front with the noise and heat that comes with that. Will probably last forever. Don't be in a hurry, the hp to weight ratio is not good
Hey Todd, We are still in Spearfish for the week. Where can I go take a peak at the old coach for a photo opp ?.
The older front engine (Forward Control or FC) Wanderlodges were produced from 1963-1989. Front mounted Cat 3208 diesel engines were added to the gasoline front engine in 1977. If it has air suspension it would be a mid 1980 model or later as the leaf suspension was used through the first part of the 1980 model year. In 1983, a rear bath model was introduced.
Early ones had an NA with 225-250 hp. Later ones got the turbo which helped immensely. I think even a couple of the absolute last ones had a 300hp. I know of one that was rolled as the driver went into the median to avoid an accident that happened right in front of them. It was righted and driven home. Yes it did need repair, but they are built like a tank.
Yep,,,Bluebird FC. I looked at one of these before buying my first Newell. It was beautiful, very well maintained. I lost interest after hearing how loud the engine was when the owner started that Cat 3208. Also, they are all steel with all of the benefits and challenges that represents.
Larry call my brother in law Dave Kimball at 604-641-0923. He lives right there in spearfish and can tell you where it is. It's just on the west side of town. He knows your name and is expecting your call.
Thanks Todd, Will give him a call when I can get some Verizon service in town....I will post a photo for all