Author:
Steve Anderson
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Date Posted: 07/ 5/ 03, 9:48am
Henry, The Blue Bird Wanderlodges are/were high end RV's. they were made for folks who had their mainteance and repairs done by factory or authorized repair centers, hang the cost, it just wasn't a factor. Now 25 years later these coaches are becoming affordable to those of us who like the retro styling and the feel of the high quality coach that they are. Wanderlodge coaches are built with high quality materials and systems such as furnaces, air-conditioners, water systems, air& hydralic systems, and electronics. These systems are generally very reliable and trouble free, but when repairs are required, having the coaches repaired or worked on by profesionals is expensive. Most owners of "Vintage Birds" are mechanically capable and like to make most repairs, or do most maintenance themselves. My suggestion to you, is to seriously consider your financial capabilities to maintain, repair, one of these coaches before you buy. If the cost of a $100 oil change is troubling and you do not feel capable of, or willing to perform this minor maintenance yourself a 79 BB is not for you in my opinion.
One should consider that in the realm of motorhomes, BB's are very high on the quality list. There are not many 1979 "Stick and Staple" motorhomes out there still on the road. There are even fewer that are even worth owning, but that aside, ANY motorhome is going to have maintenance costs. If you have to have the oil changed for your BB you will also have to have it changed in your Wienerbego. Furnaces, electrical systems, water systems, electronics are more likely to fail in less expensive mh's simply because of the quality of the original components. These items will fail on less expensive coaches too and you will still have to "hire" out repairs. In my mind, BB's, even older ones are a better buy for the same money in coach ownership, but a newby to vintage birds should have a clear vision what he is getting into. Most experinced bird owners will give the advice to new bird buyers: no matter what bird you are considering you should set aside a cash reserve of $10,000 for maintenance, repair, and upgrades. I believe that that is a realistic figure, especially for purchase of a 79 Bird.
Just some ramblings from one who has been there.
Steve Anderson
79 FC 35
Poulsbo, Wa.
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