| Subject: Re: coolant overflow/air suspension |
Author:
Scott B
| [ Next Thread |
Previous Thread |
Next Message |
Previous Message
]
Date Posted: 07/ 7/ 06, 7:39pm
In reply to:
mike
's message, "coolant overflow/air suspension" on 07/ 5/ 06, 9:09pm
Hey there Mike, we have an 86FC35RB and love it. Your "issues" are very close to mine. The issue of "not lifting" can be somewhat of a concern. First of all there are leveling valves, (generally can be had at major truck centers) There is ONE valve on the front axle and TWO on the rear axle. Consequently, the issue is compounded, does one side not lift or does the other side lift too much? Are they leaking air..not good..need replaced if they are. I chased a "leaning coach" for a long time. I finally gave in and bit the bullet and replaced ALL the leveling valves. If you do not want to do that then I would suggest that if you replace one rear valve then replace BOTH AT THE SAME TIME. Otherwise, you will continue to have problems. When ANY valves are replaced, you must drive the coach around the block and then reset the ride height...every time...It took me six times to get it right.
The coolant issue is also near to my heart. On our FIRST trip I noticed coolant leaking, and the low coolant light came on, I continued to add coolant thinking that was the fix. WRONG. I would suggest you check your water pump for seepage, very common when water pumps are failing or have failed. If you do not correct it then you will prolly have to look forward to replacing head gaskets..5K at the CAT dealer! (new heads gaskets, clean radiator etc)
Generally, when these old girls give you a warning signal, like you are seeing, then you need to pay attention, and dig into finding the problem. Otherwise,you can expect some roadside assistance..NOT FUN..I would look very closely at the water pump, radiator cleaning (very common with older coaches, stuff settleing into the bottom of the radiator and causing higher than normal temps) maybe time for a radiator cleaning...
Just a word to the wise, if you have not done such, get a good road assist company, NOT THE INSURANCE COMPANIES..Try FMCA or Good Sam or Camping World.
ONE OTHER CAUTION...if you need towed..make sure the tow company understands you need an extra long "stinger" (the part they slide under the front end) and EXTRA HIGH LIFTS (so not to crush the oil pan) I insist that when calling for towing, the tow company call me BEFORE they dispatch a truck. I do this to explaing the coach (very heavy, long stinger etc) so as not to incurr two fees for the first wrong truck dispatched and then the correct truck.
I hope this helps.
ScottB
86FC35 "RUBY" (for sale)
Murrells Inlet SC "right next to heaven"
[
Next Thread |
Previous Thread |
Next Message |
Previous Message
] |
|
Feedback: 