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05 /19/ 26, 1:09pm

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Subject: BlueBird Wannbe Questions Author: Dave Williams [ Next Thread | Previous Thread | Next Message | Previous Message ] Date Posted: 04/ 5/ 02, 5:05pm I've been learning a lot about BMC/WanderLodge coaches from this great site. I'm sold on owning one of these Vintage Birds. I'd like to stay under 40' and am curious about the 36' SP models. Looking around it appears I can afford one of these 'birds and I wonder if anyone cares to offer some advice. First question these models were only made for 4 model years, was this due to problems with the coach or the advent of WB models? I've focused on the SP model because I've convinced myself (perhaps mistakenly) the Catepillar 3208 might be a better motor than the Detroit Diesels (repair costs, mileage, etc.), does anyone have any thoughts regarding this opinion? Were any of the SP's delivered with 6 speed Allison transmissions (were different transmission models available, etc.)? Should I fail to find a good SP is the quality of the 37' BMC coaches as good as the WanderLodge? Lastly I live in the NW and might have to travel afar to purchase one of these 'birds. Does anyone have thoughts about how to evaluate coach condition, powertrain condition, etc. before flying out of town? I'd like to know how to get an independent professional appraisal, thorough inspection, road test, plumbing condition, etc. (perhaps oil analysis, too). If anyone has some good suggestions, I'd appreciate hearing from you. Thanks [ Next Thread | Previous Thread | Next Message | Previous Message ]

Replies:

[> Subject: Re: BlueBird Wannbe Questions Author: Bob Dilks [ Edit | View ] Date Posted: 04/ 6/ 02, 8:52am Dave; There are many happy SP owners and I am sure they will be able to give lots of specific information. I can only give you some general information. First SP stands for "Single Axle Pusher" which is the successor to the FC model which was last produced in 1987, which is the same year other Blue Bird coaches went to 102 inches. I think SP's are wide body coaches. As I recall there was only one transmission available - a ZF. In general, Detroit Diesel engines are less costly to rebuild than Catapillar engines because Detroits' share more standard parts, ie, 6V92, 8V92, 12V92 and 16V92 all use the same cylinder liners, pistons, wrist pins, connecting rods, etc. The SP model is a Wanderlodge and carries a Blue Bird built frame with its attendant running gear. A BMC is a Blue Bird built shell mounted to a chassis by another manufactured. For the most part, you will be able to judge the soundness of the coach by your own observations and the mileage. If you are serious about a professional opinion on the condition, take the coach to the nearest dealer or servicier of "heavy coaches" such as Blue Bird, MCI, Newell, Prevost, etcetera and pay about $500 for a PDI (Pre Delivery Inspection). As I recall, oil analysis is only valid when compared to a series of analyses on the same vehicle. [ Post a Reply to This Message ]

[> Subject: Re: BlueBird Wannbe Questions Author: Frederick C. Riester [ Edit | View ] Date Posted: 04/ 6/ 02, 9:39am Dave; I bought a 89 SP36 privately 5 years ago with 80,000 miles and driven it 65,000 miles since. I have personally dealt with numerous repair issues and am familiar with the SP36 but still learning. Blue Birds are superb motorcoaches but not for the faint of heart. I may be able to answer some of your questions. If you wish, you may call me at 518 767 2332. [ Post a Reply to This Message ]