fred heath

My 1978 standard cab has a 12.1 gal capacity. A long bed 76-78 has a 16.1 gal capacity. Year 1981-82 saw standard tank go to 13.7 . Long bed stayed at 16.1. 1984-85 began the 17.2 gal standard tank. Although a large type was available that held 19.3 gallons. I realize your vehicle is much newer The Land Cruisers had much larger tanks than pickups. You may want to research this as a means of getting a larger tank. As I'm sure my figures will be closely checked for discrepancies, the 1974 (18R-C) came with a 13.7 gal tank. :-)

My motor is the 20R. My exhaust manifold down pipe is 2" I.D. It transitioned via flange to 1 7/8 for the remaining exhaust system. For me to put larger pipe could actually have an adverse effect on engine performance. This is do to an action called "scavenging". You can research this info online for a better understanding. Bigger is not always better. If your going to rip the entire exhaust system off, do whatever makes you happy. :-)

Why do you want to change your existing system? The potential gain in HP would be minimal in relation to the cost of the upgrade. Normal rule of thumb is your exhaust pipe should be the same diameter as the exhaust manifold collector. To do the conversion your talking about would involve a complete custom fabricated exhaust system. I recently upgraded my 1979 from 1 7/8 to 2". I was fortunate to have access to a pipe bending machine. I did this because my existing exhaust system needed replacement anyway. As far as any increase in HP, I've observed none. Keep in mind once you go custom, you can no longer run to the parts store for a new muffler. My advice is stay with your stock system. You can gets parts anywhere. :-)

Marlin Crawler carries many parts for older Toyota transmissions. I've also had good luck getting parts ID from my local Toyota dealer. My Gala van is a 1979, but actually built in 1978. Your chassis serial # should start with the letters "RN" followed by a bunch of numbers. The first two numbers after RN will tell the Toyota dealer what year your chassis is. (I.e.) RN28xxxxx..... Parts are out there, you may have to search a bit.

The ID plate on the drivers side inner fender will give you the transmission type. It should say something like L43 (trans. type) and GO82 (rear axle I.D.)

If you have the L43 transmission, try marlin crawler for the nylon ball and sleeve. JD may have the parts you need.

Believe the Gala van was only manufactured in 1978 and 1979. I would be interested in seeing documation of later model production. I'm trying to compile as much info on this model as I can.

Derek, Put it your house. Good luck with your sale.

PB-1 is not "illegal" It's grandfathered. Like aluminan wire, the problems didn't arrise until years later. I'm sure many 3rd world countries and some Michigan residents are oblivious to current laws.

Easy answer "all knowing". Go out and buy some. Let me know how you doo. :-)

The problem with polybutylene supply pipes breaking is not so much a pressure issue as it is a chemical issue. Water with chlorinated additives will break down the composition of the pipe, causing leaks. It's now outlawed for use in the U.S.

I just changed my rear axle to a gm 14bolt 10.5 ring gear with 4.10.1 gear ratio. My old 5 lug is free for the asking. (1978 GO82). If your close to seacoast NH call Franks Garage at (603) 926-4900. Top shelf mechanics.

Maybe possible short that only happens when the mh is elevated by the ramps.

Finally got rid of the "foolie" axle. New axle installed. Just waiting for wheels and tires to arrive. Will try to upload pictures later.

Free to members, Not looking for $. Just don't want to scrap.

Linda, That's one cool rig. How many are left?

Check the Toyota ID plate on the drivers side inner fender. Most homes came with the one ton (metric) 3/4 ton axle. They are larger than the standard 1/2 ton Toyota axles. They have an 8" ring gear. Your ID plate should start with the letter "G" for the axle. i.e. GO82. This becomes important when buying bearings. If you get the smaller set (1/2 ton) they will not fit your axle.

That's the first model I've seen with a side door. Didn't know they made one. Definitely a rare model. Does it have a "Champion" name badge on the coach? Should be behind the drivers seatbelt return. Often hidden by the seatbelt itself. I'm thinking this is a different mfg. Champion only built on Toyota and Datsun chassis's.

An afterthought. I'll have a complete set of "foolie" wheels available for free if anyone wants a spare set. The wheels will be in Hampton, NH. Should be available 1st week of June. PM if interested.

Thanks Linda, Two reasons. 1. I already have access to the axle (no charge). 2. The extra 2 1/2" on each side would help, but I measured it out and its within 1/2" of my foolie width. Plus I can put some 4.56 gears in the back if I find I need them. :-)

Thanks Linda, I like the gm axle because with single wheels it will give me the same outside to outside as my current "foolies". With my high center of gravity and extended deck with generator on the back, I see this as a good fit. As far as wheels go, I'll have my spare for the front and tire plug kit with air compresser for the back. Or I'll just get towed.

Will be upgrading my rear axle to a Dana 3/4 ton gm axle. This will allow me to go to single rear wheels. My tire size is 195/15. I've always used RA 08, but wonder if there,s a more reasonably priced 8 ply out there. Would want to stay with 8 ply rating. Opinions ?

http://fayetteville.craigslist.org/rvs/4998245462.html. Has anyone seen one of these?

Plain old mineral spirits works well with most caulk, especially silicone. Use a spray bottle and let it soak a little. Then use a "plastic" scraper or putty knife to remove the old caulking. Go slow and take your time. Wash the surface afterwards with a good detergent and water.

For 1978 20R