gmichaelz

Link attached to member Ron Dittmer's photo of of his replacement, upgraded 6 lug, 1 ton dually rear for ToyHome: http://toyotamotorhome.org/forums/index.php?autocom=gallery&req=si&img=1677" target="_blank">http://toyotamotorhome.org/forums/index.ph...si&img=1677</a>

Hi Pam: I recently purchased a one owner !987 Gulfstream Conquest ToyHome, which was previously owned by a 72 year old mechanically inclined gentleman whom loved and faithfully maintained his ToyHome. But, due to his age, health, & current financial status this ToyHome went unused for one and a half years. Unused, and not maintained for only a short interval. Currently this ToyHome is almost ready to hit the road / trail. All systems are sound and in working order. But, to arrive at this condition, I spent many leisurely hours of mechanical and electrical diagnosis and repair. My cautionary note to you Miss Pam Whom Is Mechanically Challenged, is that these ToyHomes are getting Old, some are getting Tired, all need Tender Loving Mechanical Care for a second chance. If you are up to their challenges, they are up to yours in either 4 cyl. or 6 cyl. configurations. If you choose to purchase a ToyHome, or any other older Class C Motor Home you will earn both your mechanical as well as electrical engineering degrees.

Is it a Fleetwood Fiesta? http://buy.lovetoknow.com/wiki/How_to_Buy_a_Class_C_Motorhome" target="_blank">http://buy.lovetoknow.com/wiki/How_to_Buy_...ass_C_Motorhome</a>

<!--quoteo(post=10556:date=Jul 28 2009, 12:51 AM:name=nmex)--><div class='quotetop'>QUOTE (nmex @ Jul 28 2009, 12:51 AM) <a href="index.php?act=findpost&pid=10556"><{POST_SNAPBACK}></a></div><div class='quotemain'><!--quotec-->Hello, I just placed a deposit on a 1983 Huntsman with 53,000 original miles 22r 4 speed. Any Toyota Rv in Oklahoma is a rare find. 7. Just Found out about the axle thing after the fact. I dont know what type axles are on the rv? If it is a 5 lug should I run? <b>I have wanted a toyota Rv for years. I paid $1,800 for it which I think is a fair price? I gave the elderly couple a $1,000 down and will pick-up the Rv when I pay for it in full mid aug. What worrys me is the axle thing Lasty Should I get my deposit back and run on this deal? Thanks Matt</b><!--QuoteEnd--></div><!--QuoteEEnd--> Hi Matt: Sounds as though you are suffering from a mild case of "Buyers Remorse" As to the axel issue, find out if it is a 6 lug with the outer bearing by looking at the ToyHome, take a mechanic with you. Or if too far away, then telephone or Email the sellers with your question. There are many existing threads here dealing with this axel issue. See the following links for starters: http://www.toyotamotorhomes.com/files/Axle_FAQ.pdf" target="_blank">http://www.toyotamotorhomes.com/files/Axle_FAQ.pdf</a> http://toyotamotorhome.org/forums/index.php?showtopic=6" target="_blank">http://toyotamotorhome.org/forums/index.php?showtopic=6</a> http://toyotamotorhome.org/forums/index.php?showtopic=696" target="_blank">http://toyotamotorhome.org/forums/index.php?showtopic=696</a> http://toyotamotorhome.org/forums/index.php?showtopic=1449" target="_blank">http://toyotamotorhome.org/forums/index.php?showtopic=1449</a> As to your $1000 deposit, which was given in earnest money, did you make some kind of written, signed document that if you choose to cancel this deal under certain conditions that you would receive a partial or full refund? After all they are telling all new callers that the ToyHome is sold to you.

Try these links for purchasing information on Chinook Baja Off Road 4X4 Recreational Vehicle http://hawcreekoutdoors.com/mini003.htm http://images.google.com/imgres?imgurl=http://www.mcmahonrv.com/images/chinook/baja/baja_main.jpg&imgrefurl=http://www.mcmahonrv.com/chinook-baja.htm&usg=__r6UUrGe8RKhHkq5-l2IoAE_1X98=&h=176&w=294&sz=13&hl=en&start=5&tbnid=t_Srrs4xk9lAsM:&tbnh=69&tbnw=115&prev=/images%3Fq%3Dchinook%2B4x4%26gbv%3D2%26hl%3Den%26sa%3DG http://www.yotatech.com/f2/holy-cow-4x4-toyota-rv-58777/

<!--quoteo(post=10556:date=Jul 28 2009, 12:51 AM:name=nmex)--><div class='quotetop'>QUOTE (nmex @ Jul 28 2009, 12:51 AM) <a href="index.php?act=findpost&pid=10556"><{POST_SNAPBACK}></a></div><div class='quotemain'><!--quotec-->Hello, I just placed a deposit on a 1983 Huntsman with 53,000 original miles 22r 4 speed. Any Toyota Rv in Oklahoma is a rare find. 7. Just Found out about the axle thing after the fact. I dont know what type axles are on the rv? If it is a 5 lug should I run? <b>I have wanted a toyota Rv for years. I paid $1,800 for it which I think is a fair price? I gave the elderly couple a $1,000 down and will pick-up the Rv when I pay for it in full mid aug. What worrys me is the axle thing Lasty Should I get my deposit back and run on this deal? Thanks Matt</b><!--QuoteEnd--></div><!--QuoteEEnd--> Hello Matt: Sounds as though you are suffering from a mild case of "Buyers Remorse" As to the axel issue, find out if it is a 6 lug with the outer bearing by looking at the ToyHome, take a mechanic with you. Or if too far away, then telephone or Email the sellers with your question. There are many existing threads here dealing with this axel issue. See the following links for starters: http://www.toyotamotorhomes.com/files/Axle_FAQ.pdf" target="_blank">http://www.toyotamotorhomes.com/files/Axle_FAQ.pdf</a> http://toyotamotorhome.org/forums/index.php?showtopic=6" target="_blank">http://toyotamotorhome.org/forums/index.php?showtopic=6</a> http://toyotamotorhome.org/forums/index.php?showtopic=696" target="_blank">http://toyotamotorhome.org/forums/index.php?showtopic=696</a> http://toyotamotorhome.org/forums/index.php?showtopic=1449" target="_blank">http://toyotamotorhome.org/forums/index.php?showtopic=1449</a> As to your $1000 deposit, which was given in earnest money, did you make some kind of written, signed document that if you choose to cancel this deal under certain conditions that you would receive a partial or full refund? After all they are telling all new callers that the ToyHome is sold to you.

Hi Pam: Please open this attached link to a recent post: http://toyotamotorhome.org/forums/index.php?showtopic=2266" target="_blank">http://toyotamotorhome.org/forums/index.php?showtopic=2266</a>

Hi Gill: I am only responding to your gasoline engine inquiry? Prior to Toyota Chassis model year 1988, these ToyHomes were basically equipped with a 2.2 liter 4 cylinder in line engine designated 22R, When fuel injection was introduced they were designated 22RE. you may want to Google "Toyota Pick Up Truck" Interest Groups or Wikipedia for more specifics on displacement. The 1988 Toyota Chassis offered a 3.0 liter V-6 engine which of course is fuel injected, designated 3VZ-E.. So beginning in Toyota Chassis model year 1988 you have a choice of either a 4 cyl. or a 6 cyl. gasoline engine power train. Prior to this 6 cyl. introduction ToyHomes had various inline 4 cyl. engines. All Gasoline 4 cyl. engines were "R" Family 22nd generation engines, main visible difference was carburetor vs electronic fuel injection naturally aspirated vs efi turbo. A diesel engine was also offered as a power train choice. But usually the coach builders are using gasoline engines on a Toyota chassis manufactured in a prior year. Or the case may simply be that these same coach manufactures / builders are calling / titling their product as a year newer. For example my 1987 Gulfstream Conquest Motorhome is built on a 1986 Toyota Chassis. This may add some confusion to transition years of the Toyota Chassis dealing with engine choices and dual axel upgrades, etc. So it is highly important for you to know your chassis year of manufacture. As for Engine Performance, I have owned several 4X4 Toyota Pick Up Trucks over the years, equipped with both 4 cyl. 22RE and currently a 6 cyl 3VZ-E. Yes, absolutely the 6 cyl. has more power. But the increase of power comes with higher maintenance costs. Fuel efficiency for moving your ToyHome at 55 MPH, vs 65 MPH, vs 75 MPH are factors which only you can control.

Eric Burkhardt ,Technical Service Representative @ Velvac replied on 7/27/09 that they no longer offer mirror assemblies for Toyota, they are no longer available. Ph#800-783-8871 So I need to find a dealer with non purchased new stock or look to the salvage market.

<!--quoteo(post=10365:date=Jul 20 2009, 01:22 PM:name=turiyahill)--><div class='quotetop'>QUOTE (turiyahill @ Jul 20 2009, 01:22 PM) <a href="index.php?act=findpost&pid=10365"><{POST_SNAPBACK}></a></div><div class='quotemain'><!--quotec-->What questions should I be asking?<!--QuoteEnd--></div><!--QuoteEEnd--> Hi Turi: We all deal with the universal problem of spending our money wisely, we all want to feel that "We got a good deal" When purchasing something like a Used Motorhome we may not know that we got a good deal until years later. So it is best to know as much information about the product you desire on purchasing. From the point of manufacture to all previous owners, maintenance, current condition, etc. You and a mechanic need to physically inspect the item, etc., etc. So much needs to be told, so little time, so for exposure starters please read the attached links: http://www.youreover50.com/motorhomes/1UsedMotorhome.htm" target="_blank">http://www.youreover50.com/motorhomes/1UsedMotorhome.htm</a> http://www.rv.net/forum/index.cfm/fuseaction/thread/tid/14209636.cfm" target="_blank">http://www.rv.net/forum/index.cfm/fuseacti...id/14209636.cfm</a> http://rvbasics.com/techtips/how-to-buy-a-used-RV-2.html" target="_blank">http://rvbasics.com/techtips/how-to-buy-a-used-RV-2.html</a> http://www.campertrails.com/used-campers.html" target="_blank">http://www.campertrails.com/used-campers.html</a> http://ezinearticles.com/?Used-Motorhome-Checklist---Points-To-Save-Your-Money&id=643608" target="_blank">http://ezinearticles.com/?Used-Motorhome-C...y&id=643608</a> http://www.everything-about-rving.com/should-i-buy-a-used-motorhome-built-by-an-rv-manufacturer-that-is-out-of-business.html" target="_blank">http://www.everything-about-rving.com/shou...f-business.html</a> These articles are just the beginning to a new lifestyle which awaits you!

The mounting brackets which I am in search of would be configured similar to these U-Haul 10' box cargo vans, but I would need a 15" to 18" horizontal adjustment for the top bracket. I have written U-Haul as to their supplier of these brackets, as well as to inquires with several manufacturers of loop brackets.

Hello Jocko: Please refer to my July 25, 2009 positing in the General Discussion Forum area entitled "Terrific Owners Manual for Motorhome, by Airstream" After you open the link go to pages 26 & 27 Troubleshooting Water Pump Section which covers this water pump topic nicely. I hope that you find this information useful in helping you diagnose and eventually resolve this water pump question. Michael For your convenience I attached you a link to this Topic below: http://toyotamotorhome.org/forums/index.php?showtopic=2256" target="_blank">http://toyotamotorhome.org/forums/index.php?showtopic=2256</a>

Than you Roxanne: I securely remounted my original mirrors and their brackets on the below the window mounted tripod setup configuration which only accommodates one mirror head per side with a small convex mirror glued on each side. I ordered West Coast Mirror Heads, 6 X 16, I have an idea as how to mount them, but due to the slope of the front of the door, I might have to install the mirror heads lower than on the Big Rigs. Or I will have to drastically modify the attachment brackets to raise the center line of the mirror glass. I do not want the glass of the West Coast Mirror to be rearward beyond the back edge of my wing windows. I'm fine with the remounted original mirrors, but I want to add more rearward vision for anyone else whom may be co-driving with me. Also desire to add more frontal mass by installing more Brackets so that this second driver remembers that the coach extends outward, wider than the cab. Much like a cube van. The Canopy mounted on the curb side requires even greater awareness when parking alongside signposts. With the canopy rolled up it's 6" wider than the drivers side and so easily forgotten with the limited rearward view of the current mirrors. Might be possible to attach a west Coast Mirror Yoke to Velvac Dual Style Brackets as most Toyota ToyHomes are equipped with. Has anyone out there attached full sized West Coast Mirrors to their ToyHome? Thanks, Michael

Today I removed my Coleman rooftop air conditioner model # 6727B707, and replaced it with a standard 14X14 roof vent. The AC worked fine but leaked ever so slightly into my interior due to the 3 hold down bolts loosened with time and vibration. An easy quick fix by removing the inside ceiling assembly cover and accessing these hold down bolts, then simply tighten. Unfortunately the previous owner never performed this critical maintenance service. This evening while researching information about the marketability of this used AC unit on "Google", I came across this wonderful link for a 1988 Motorhome Owners Manual, distributed with the competitions' Airstream Model. Newbies as well as seasoned veterans to this motorhome lifestyle, anyone needing information as to service and maintenance issues to their ToyHomes should read this PDF File. This 1988 Airstream Motorhome was equipped with the same Coleman AC Model as I removed off my 1987 Toyota Gulfstream Conquest. also the water pump is similar, etc., etc. Seems like the main difference is the outer covering and of course, "The Price" Note: I also duplicated this link to this well written owners manual by posting this information in the "Manuals Gallery" for easy reference and retrieval. For your enjoyment I have attached a photo of the infamous, "NASA's Airstream Motorhome," copyrights by Airstream Vintage Classic Motorhome Collection. The attached link to this Owners Manual provides some very good information about using, enjoying, and caring for your motorhome: A Must Read for ToyHome Owners! In my humble opinion. Enjoy the MotorHome Experience, Michael http://b190.com/files/1991%20B190%20owners%20manual.pdf" target="_blank">http://b190.com/files/1991%20B190%20owners%20manual.pdf</a> <img src="http://image02.webshots.com/2/6/35/29/45563529kqrwTW_ph.jpg" border="0" class="linked-image" />

Hello Russ: Sounds like you have created the perfect cave for yourself! Cool, Semi Dark and Dry. Yes I envy you. Here in North Eastern Pennsylvania we receive abundant rainfall, so that when I would be confined to the interior of the ToyHome I would probably be reading books, I do not subscribe to WiFi capability in the wilds, While traveling I use Public Library access points to use WiFi on my laptop. But when camping in the wilds I return to the basics. Yes, I travel with many books and periodicals. Since my MH windows are already tinted from Gulf Stream, I am leaning toward vinyl horizontal mini blinds that block most light, which I can open during indoor confinement due to thunderstorm activity outdoors. When you removed your roof mounted AC unit did you simply use a 14" X 14" roof vent to re-seal the roof opening, which I am told is the standard method, or did you cover the opening completely with metal sheeting? Thanks, Michael

Hello Turiyahill: In your description of your 4 cylinder engine "22RE" it has 60,000 miles as listed (60k) The Motorhome chassis may have more miles and the engine was rebuilt or replaced. But, they appear to list 60,000 miles on the engine and without further explanation you need to ask seller specific questions. Their asking price of $10,000 seems a bit high to me for a 1986 model with 60k miles. Price is determined by whatever the market will bear!

Some more links of Google Images of this area to give you an idea of the natural beauty you are about to experience. http://images.google.com/images?hl=en&um=1&sa=1&q=Arcadia+National+Park+Maine&btnG=Search+images&aq=f&oq=" target="_blank">http://images.google.com/images?hl=en&...mp;aq=f&oq=</a> http://images.google.com/images?hl=en&um=1&sa=1&q=mt.+desert+island+maine&aq=1&oq=Mt.+Desert" target="_blank">http://images.google.com/images?hl=en&...p;oq=Mt.+Desert</a> http://images.google.com/images?hl=en&um=1&sa=1&q=Bar+Harbor+Maine&btnG=Search+images&aq=f&oq=" target="_blank">http://images.google.com/images?hl=en&...mp;aq=f&oq=</a> http://images.google.com/images?hl=en&um=1&q=cadillac+mountain&sa=N&start=0&ndsp=21" target="_blank">http://images.google.com/images?hl=en&...t=0&ndsp=21</a> http://images.google.com/images?hl=en&um=1&sa=1&q=Seal+Cove+Maine&btnG=Search+images&aq=f&oq=" target="_blank">http://images.google.com/images?hl=en&...mp;aq=f&oq=</a>

Hello jpyzik: Back in 1978 I spent two weeks vacation in my Dodge Conversion Van camping along Maine's Down East coastline, allocating one week to Mt. Desert Island, Arcadia National Park area. You will find many areas to park your MH. See attached links: http://www.bing.com/maps/#JnE9eXAuYmFyK2hhcmJvciUyYytNRStjYW1waW5nJTdlc3N0LjAlN2VwZy4xJmJiPTU1LjQ3ODg1MzQ2MzMxMDMlN2UtNTAuMDA5NzY1NjI1JTdlMjEuNzc5OTA1MzQyNTI5NiU3ZS0xMDAuNDU4OTg0Mzc1" target="_blank">http://www.bing.com/maps/#JnE9eXAuYmFyK2hh...DAuNDU4OTg0Mzc1</a> I stayed at Mount Desert Campground, several nights, but it seems that they now have a 20' RV size limit now: http://www.mountdesertcampground.com/" target="_blank">http://www.mountdesertcampground.com/</a> I camped out at Cadillac Mountain to greet the sunrise July 4th, but there may have been special dispensation given since this is a big annual event with the local citizens and the town of Bar Harbor. Just be prepared to eat lots of lobster, easily purchased at the wharfs. Also think about purchasing a ride on a friendship sloop sailboat ride, you may even see some whale activity if lucky. http://www.barharborwhalemuseum.org/" target="_blank">http://www.barharborwhalemuseum.org/</a> You also might meet Vacationing Canadians from Prince Edward Island and Nova Scotia whom took the Blue Nose Ferry over to Bar Harbor. So much to see. Enjoy your vacation. Michael

Thank you Gulfstream Greg for your informative post. And especially the note about when you applied window film to your pick up truck's windows. I have seen many photos at this site dedicated to your mechanical skills and examples of handiwork which you applied to your MH's, so I know that you are a creative person and do not shy away from the necessary labor of getting involved in a project on your ToyHome. Life is an ongoing balancing act. Thanks, Michael

Thank you Bear: I think that my coach windows already have tinted factory glass at 50% to as low as 35% tint factor from Gulfstream. I plan on camping in remote areas and would not be able to use the roof mounted AC, since I do not have a generator nor plan on installing one, already carrying too much weight. And I do not enjoy being hot, cold I can dress for, hot I suffer. As for applying the tint film to the inside of the sliding windows, I was thinking of removing the slider from inside so that I could apply film to the stationary window easily, and then apply the tint to the slider when it was removed from the MH. Just do not want it too dark inside while parked in the shade during the day. We all need light, it is the heat I am trying to minimize. It is too humid in PA to use a Swamp Cooler, and if I drop a tarp from the roof rack to cover windows there goes my outdoor view and light. Could velcro Heavy fabric onto the inside windows to cause blackout while vehicle is in transit to minimize heat gain, but then there is the storage issue once camped, roll up shades are self storing though. Thank you Russ: For replying that you used "Automotive Grade Tinting Film" for your 2 1/2% selection. Were your coach windows also tinted from the factory prior to you applying this additional protection? I spent some time working inside the MH yesterday with the AC running to check on it's performance. Well it worked so well that after laboring I sat down to read the manuals and other literature which came with the MH, I read beyond dusk and had to turn on a overhead light to continue. The Bottom Line is that I do not want to turn the overhead light on during the day when I am confined to the MH due to Thunderstorms, etc. Does your choice of tint allow enough ambient light to enter the coach to comfortably read while confined to interior during cloudy days? Thanks, Michael

Thank you Russ Donaldson for your post. You mentioned that 2 1/2% was your selection of window tint, I was entertaining using 5% black as my choice if I cannot use the bronze tint. I thought 5% black was Limo Tint but now I will also include 2 1/2% in my research. Do you recall if the tint which you used was considered "auto grade" or "residential grade?" I think that currently the glue is stronger on the residential grade but can only be use on flat glass. Again thanks for your viewpoint., Michael

Update on Window Tint Film: I had my 1988 Toyota 4X4 pickup's annual Pennsylvania inspection performed today. My mechanic had a ToyHome many years ago, he took it on many long trips with his family, and stated the only area in which the transmission fluid overheated was in these mountains here in PA. I asked him if PA has a limit on how dark the window tint film can be for the coach section. His answer was "No Restriction on Color for the coach section, but a max of 35% for the Door Windows for the driving compartment. I am going back tomorrow to have my car inspected. I will inquire about residential reflective coatings which are better at reducing UV Rays and heat build up, which is my primary goal. I thought that a bronze film would look good with the aged fiberglass patina. But, I'm thinking that a reflective film might create night driving issues for the other drivers, whom I do not want to want to jeopardize aggravating. I welcome and encourage your thoughts and opinions. Thanks, Michael

<!--quoteo(post=10250:date=Jul 14 2009, 10:51 PM:name=COYota)--><div class='quotetop'>QUOTE (COYota @ Jul 14 2009, 10:51 PM) <a href="index.php?act=findpost&pid=10250"><{POST_SNAPBACK}></a></div><div class='quotemain'><!--quotec-->The correct tire size for most Toyota RVs is 185R14C with a load range D or 8-ply rating. The size does not specify a sidewall height to tread width ratio such as 75 series. (75 series means that the sidewall height is 75% of the tread width). In actuality its about 82 for these tires. Note that the C does not refer to the load rating. It stands for "commercial" much as some tires are rated "P" for passenger car or "LT" for light truck. They are often used on commercial delivery vehicles. They're also used on VW camper buses. This is NOT the same size as a P185/75R14. The P205/75R14 tires you are using will be close to the same diameter as a 185R14 (about 26"), but will be wider. That may be a problem with the rear duals (they may touch each other - no good). They also do not have reinforced sidewalls (bad for handling) and are seriously inadequate in load rating. They're likely rated 1500# or less per tire as opposed to 1800 or more for load range D tires. That makes for a total of 1200 pounds less capacity for your rear axle.<!--QuoteEnd--></div><!--QuoteEEnd--> Thank you COYota for you concise explanation of commercial tires, it certainly made it easier for me to understand the commercial tire numbering system. Attached please find a link to currently available 185R14C Tires. http://www.ratwell.com/technical/TirePhotos.html" target="_blank">http://www.ratwell.com/technical/TirePhotos.html</a>

Hello TMH Owners: Well after carefully laundering the original curtains which came with my newly purchased 1987 Gulfstream Conquest ToyHome, I now possess wonderful clean up rags. The more I handle these clean curtains the more the liner material shreds. Myself being a single male widower, I am simply thinking of hanging mini blinds on most of the windows to keep UV rays to a minimum when the MH is parked outdoors. Then I got to thinking about tinting the windows with film. Since the coach windows are flat, I might be able to use residential film rather than auto film. Does any member at this site have any experience with these films? I have briefly researched this topic on the internet , and am attaching several links: http://reviews.ebay.com/How-to-Buy-Window-Tint-Film-for-your-Home-or-Auto_W0QQugidZ10000000003871957?ssPageName=BUYGD:CAT:-1:LISTINGS:6" target="_blank">http://reviews.ebay.com/How-to-Buy-Window-...T:-1:LISTINGS:6</a> http://reviews.ebay.com/Do-It-Yourself-Installing-Residential-Window-Tint_W0QQugidZ10000000003871985" target="_blank">http://reviews.ebay.com/Do-It-Yourself-Ins...000000003871985</a> http://www.dsmtalk.com/forums/showthread.php?t=213608" target="_blank">http://www.dsmtalk.com/forums/showthread.php?t=213608</a> Do the motor vehicle laws dictate maximum darkness of the window tint chosen for the coach portion as though it were the rear of a SUV vehicle? Looking forward to your posts on this subject. Thanks, Michael