Spring 2021 | Issue 155
GMC MOTORHOMES INTERNATIONAL
A magazine dedicated to promoting the legacy and use of GMC Motorhomes
Back on The Road
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The GMC Motorhome Network
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Martini Anyone?
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The EM-50 Tribute Project
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Technical Corner
president’s corner
GMC MOTORHOMES INTERNATIONAL
GMC Motorhomes International was founded in 1982 by Ralph Luby >> GMC Motorhomes International 1402 So Cage Blvd, Unit 273 Pharr, TX 78577 | 612-501-4600 admin@gmcmi.com | gmcmi.com
This is going to be a very different President’s Letter, as much of what I had to say here is in the feature article. I am going to endeavor to stay looking forward, but there are many things in the past that needs to be reflected upon and mentioned one last time before being consigned to the dust bin of history.
>> GMC Vintage RVing Magazine Published quarterly for members of GMC Motorhomes International. Managing Editor | Graphic Designer Kimberlea Weeks | 612-501-4600 admin@gmcmi.com Editor Janet Frey | 215-536-9064 freyjanetr@yahoo.com Technical Editor Randy Van Winkle | 417-429-5925 rlvanwin@gmail.com >> Online Version A digital flipbook version of the magazine is available online at gmcmi.com/gmc-vintage-rving/. >> Submission Please send articles and newly found part numbers to the managing editor. >> GMCMI.com Website 612-501-4600 | admin@gmcmi.com >> Disclaimer Articles are contributed by members and others which are published as a service to members. Accuracy is not guaranteed. Independent verification is urged. ©2021 GMC Motorhomes International
2020-21 GMCMI Board of Directors Dolph Santorine President
Gary Coaster VP Western
Margie McLaughlin Jerry Work VP Northeast VP Northwest David Blackshear VP Eastern
Kim Weeks VP Administration
Lou Boone VP Southeast
Janet Frey Secretary
Randy Van Winkle VP South Central
Fred Hudspeth Treasurer
John Pryzbylek VP Great Lakes
John Smyrski Director
Lucy Weidner VP Midwest
Keith Weeks Director
Emery Stora VP Rocky Mountain
Stan Edwards Past President
Non-Discrimination Statement: GMCMI is committed to maintaining an environment of non-discrimination and noncoercion on the basis of race, gender, color, religion, handicap, or political preferences.
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Dolph Santorine
So, what’s happened at GMCMI with Dolph Santorine at the helm?
Well, we amicably separated from FMCA, improved and updated our by-laws and standing rules, and then started canceling Conventions. Three of them, to be precise. Spring 2020, Fall 2020, and after being eternally optimistic, we were forced to cancel Spring 2021. Keep in mind that it is not like we had a choice on the cancellations. Plague! COVID! Everything was closed. People were not going much of anywhere. The number of organizations that are claiming that 2020 was the year that wasn’t is stunning. Many of them, including GMCMI asked their board members and executive leadership to stay on for another year or more. In a typical year, at the Spring Convention the GMCMI Nominating Committee is choosen where they proceed to propose a slate of board members and officers at the Fall Convention, with the nominees voted upon at the Fall Convention. Well, the board voted unanimously to cancel the Spring Convention. They also acted decisively in asking the elected board members, including me, GMCMI President, to remain for an unprecedented fourth term. I remain incredibly humbled by the actions of your board of directors and the confidence that they have shown in me and the rest of the leadership team.
“So what’s happened at GMCMI?” – DOLPH SANTORINE, GMCMI PRESIDENT
So, what else will, with a little luck and the grace of God, happen moving forward? Three more Conventions where you will need to listen to me be ridiculously upbeat at an early hour of the morning. Maybe you will get to hear me as the Bingo Caller (I am actually experienced at that one). And I finally really know what a GripStik is from first-hand experience, and promise an improved description while announcing them for morning door prizes! (For those that are curious, check out page 20.)
I am happy to report that my warped and occasionally inappropriate sense of humor has survived COVID intact. Your coughing in public will likely be greeted with “Pollen or Plague?” Terrific progress was made for a Convention of celestial proportions during the total eclipse of 2024, and more new programs with GMCMI. What I believe to be a record number of new Convention sites are being considered. We are also on very good financial footing for what comes next, thanks to the steady hand of our Treasurer, Fred Hudspeth. There is allegedly an old Chinese curse – “May you live in interesting times”. The last 17 months have certainly been “interesting”. If the opposite of “interesting” is “ordinary”, I am up for a double helping of “ordinary”. How about you? I firmly believe that, collectively, we are going to will the balance of 2021 and all of 2022 into being a truly great year. One of my favorite calls to action has been, and will continue to be, onward!
GMCMI Status Membership stands at 874. Thank you to those who renewed their 2021 GMCMI membership.
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Refer a new member today! Receive a $10 voucher which can be used towards renewal of GMCMI dues, products, apparel, or fees for a Convention.
CONTENTS WINTER 2020
SPRING 2021
Keep informed about GMCMI Events and Members.
GMCMI . . . A New Era
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Join us at facebook.com/ GMCMI
DEPARTMENTS 2 President’s Corner 10 FMCA Report
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BEWARE OF Back on the RoadCONTENTS SCAMS 11 GMCMH Vendor Profile
12 GMC Motorhome History
13 Technical Corner
22 GMCMH Suppliers List
WINTER 2020
24 Classified Ads
4 | JUMP IN THE COACH GO! 26 Regional GMCMHAND Activities 6 | THE 27 GMCMI GMCMHENVELOPE Events Calendar
8 | THE GMC MOTORHOME NETWORK
DEPARTMENTS
GMCMI . . . A New Era
10 | THE GMCMI CONVENTION
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10 | THE GMC COMMUNITY
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DEPARTMENTS 2 President’s Corner 10 FMCA Report 11 GMCMH Vendor Profile 12 GMC Motorhome History
Carl & Kathy Stouffer | 1975 Palm Beach | Tucson, Arizona
CONTENTS
2 11 18 19 2 0 21 22 27 29 31 32 35
President’s Corner GMCMI Member Profile Letters to the Editor GMC Motorhome History Generally Speaking GMCMH Vendor Profile Technical Corner GMCMH Suppliers List Classified Ads GMC Motorhome Trivia Questions 8 Regional GMCMH Activities GMCMH Events Calendar
BEWARE OF SCAMS
13 Technical CornerON THE COVER Pictured along the banks of Lake Pepin on the Minnesota
12 | MARTINI ANYONE?
sideList looking at Wisconsin is a 1976 Palm Beach owned by Tim and Niki 22 GMCMH Suppliers
Anderson of Hugo, Minnesota. This coach features a rear bed, wet bath, side ON THE COVER | A completely refurbished kitchen with oak countertop along with bunks above the sofa. The coach is out)job 1978 GMC Royaleplus owned mostly original interior with the(inside originaland paint on the outside Alcoaby 26 Regional GMCMH Activities Larry and Lucy Weidner from Menomonie, wheels, recently rebuilt 455 engine, Carefree awning, Sully style air bags, 27 GMCMH Events Calendar The~40,000 coach ismiles powered byodometer a 1976 and air horn. They purchased it Wisconsin. in 2013 with on the from friends of the original owners in Kansas. They plan on installing fuelpitch Cadillac 500 CID and hooked to a switch injection this Spring in preparation a trip fromwith Minnesota to California. 425for transmission a 3.21 FD. The Royale When not on vacation, almost every other in weekend springBay thru fall they is pictured front offrom the Green Packers travel to campgrounds, car shows, parades, pumpkin patch, tailgating at the Lambeau Field where they attended on a racetrack, GMC rallies, and all sorts of other activities. They proudly show beautiful the (7), 70s)Nash a game their coach at the car shows. Pictured areOctober Cooper day (9), (in Logan (5), against the San Francisco 49ers, AND…the and Remington aka Remi the golden doodle (3 months). Packers won!
24 Classified Ads
14 | THE EM-50 TRIBUTE PROJECT
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WINTER 2020
SPRING 2021
GMC MOTORHOMES
Read the flipbook version of the GMC Vintage RVing magazine online at gmcmi.com
Beinformed part of the Keep about GMC Community GMCMI Events Facebook page by and Members. sharing photos of Joinour us at our GMCs, facebook.com/ GMCs, adventures adventures andand GMCMI those important technical questions. Join us at facebook.com/ groups/vintage gmcmotorhomes/ Read the flipbook version of the GMC Vintage RVing magazine online at gmcmi.com Technical Support, Parts Interchange, History and More! GMCMI.com Be part of the GMC Community Facebook page by sharing photos of our GMCs, adventures and Shop for specialized those important GMCMH items and technicalmagazines! questions. previous Join us at thegmcmhstore.com facebook.com/ groups/vintage INTERNATIONAL 3 gmcmotorhomes/
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3
Back on the Road
BY DOLPH SANTORINE | 1977 PALM BEACH | WHEELING, WEST VIRGINIA
Down in the valley-over the hills, what we’re havin’ are tons of thrills! Our family dog, “Pudge”, a lovable nine-pound fur ball, wants nothing more than to GO! Her ears perk up, her tail is wagging and she is ready to jump in the coach and GO! After being cooped up for so long, I believe we all share that feeling. Pudge and Lyla Santorine ready-to-go in The COVID grandpa Dolph’s GMC. See you at the Fall restrictions are Convention in Chippewa Falls, Wisconsin. lifting, and it is time to get face-to-face with motorhome friends we have not seen in far too long.
Everywhere we have gone, people are making it happen. The talk is not about COVID, but about what’s next, and what’s being planned. We have logged 3,800 miles on our coach already this season, and we are not even into summer yet! I hope you are planning on miles and many memories. I think it is important to occasionally review what your association does and why. GMCMI does what only an international association can do. We strive to help you have safe travels in your vintage GMC Motorhome. Traveling the way we do is different, too. I have asked my friends with 70s cars if they would like to go on a 3,000 mile road trip in their 45-year-old car. Their answer is almost universally “NO”. While it is not exactly routine for us, it happens quite often, and usually ends well. 4
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SPRING 2021
GMC MOTORHOMES INTERNATIONAL
5 Clark and Patty Southmayd | 1976 Glenbrook | Tulsa, Oklahoma | Sunrise from the Port Lavaca/Matagorda Bay, Texas KOA
The GMCMI “Envelope” A.K.A the Spring Mailing
In pursuit of safety and support, GMCMI publishes the “envelope”, also known as the spring mailing. It includes important information for our membership and all owners of GMC Motorhomes. Here is what you will find in the “envelope”. 1. GMC Motorhome Parts Interchange, which includes the service, parts, and repair suppliers list, and other information. It is always remarkable to me how many old copies of this list can be found everywhere. I have run into new owners who received a dogeared old copy who nearly universally hope for a clean fresh copy with updated information. They can! It is one of the benefits of membership, and it is one of the more difficult “heavy lift” projects that your association does for the entire GMC Community. 2. GMCMI Roster of Members, which is always a handy thing to have. We are happy to announce a new section for Campgrounds & RV Parks. We have two GMC Motorhome owners who not only share our affinity for a certain vintage motorhome but own RV parks. Ray Doonkeen in Oklahoma City, Oklahoma (Road Runner RV Park) and Thomas Jetzer & Patricia Schenk in Granger, Indiana (South Bend/Elkhart North KOA Holiday Recreation). 3. The Article Index which indexes articles published in all the quarterly GMCMI publications (newsletters and magazines). 4. The spring issue of GMC Vintage RVing magazine. The only award-winning magazine all about the GMC Motorhome!
Three Additions to the “Envelope” This year, there are three additions to the “envelope”, the first being a reprint of the 1973-75 GMC Motoroamer’s Pre-flight Check List and the second being the 1976-78 Getting to Know the GMC Motorhome Pre-Travel Checklist. These are historically interesting, especially since in the beginning it seems that GM wanted to brand us “Motoroamers”. That is a very early 70s thing, and I think I understand it, and can just see that advertising copy guy with helmet hair and side burns that go into the next county coining “Motoroamers”. I am happy that some things like wide ties, lapels that go to your shoulders, and polyester slacks ran their course. Some sanity returned within GM’s advertising department when they updated the checklist for 1976, and it became the aptly named 1976-78 Getting to Know the GMC Motorhome Pre-Travel Checklist. Try saying that five times fast. They likely still wore the style of the day, but “Motoroamers” was subtly put out to pasture. I have always been one for checklists, and believe that your brain is for having your next great ideas not remembering lists that are best put to paper. Also, checklists channel my inner pilot, an endeavor where checklists are required, and from a complexity standpoint, our motorhomes deserve something more than hop in and drive. We have all the complexity of a light truck, plus those of a self-
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contained, battery-powered house that we run through an earthquake with every pot-hole. There...the “motoroamers” cliche. I said it. These checklists are also historically interesting. Kim Weeks (GMC Vintage RVing managing editor) commented that she “didn’t know that you should switch your gas tank to ‘main’ when filling”. I am certain that this will spark a discussion at the liars table at the “Welcome Back Convention” in Chippewa Falls this fall.
The “Black List” While “black” may the color that our hands and arms turn after a good coating of grease and grime from under the coach, it has nothing to do with the famous “GMC Black List”
The liars table at our Conventions is generally frequented by those among us with technical skills and strongly held opinions on issues with clear, single solutions like motor oil and tires. At the end of the Convention we will know two things – change your oil and tires are round. With a little luck, there will be some laughter and guffaws.
It is also a good thing to either be on this “Black List” or to use this “Black List”.
But switching the tank to “main” has to have some mysterious technical reason known only to the insiders at GM that we have yet to discover. Trust in the liars table, we will get to the bottom of this nearly halfcentury-old pressing technical issue.
It is named for its originator, Roger Black.
Now, my favorite entry on the Motoroamer’s Pre-Flight Checklist is “See that holding tank extension hose is in rear bumper tube; end held firmly on bracket”. It took a minute. Extension hose? Bracket? What say you? Ah… stinky slinky. I am guessing macerator pumps were not a thing in 1973. More than one of us have seen an RV driving down the highway with said tube happily bouncing on the roadway, still attached to its valve.
Check-lists. They have value. In many ways, maintenance schedules are one more check-list. As our coaches approach the half-century-mark, maintenance is more important than ever. Did you know that you can access all the GMC Motorhome Maintenance Schedules? Downloadable pdfs for each year (1973-1978) are available at www.gmcmi.com/gmcmh-maintenance-schedules. Look them over. I believe you will find more than one item you overlooked, and things that you can do even better.
The “Black List” originated on the GMCnet email list back at the end of 1998.
Roger put together names and addresses of GMC Motorhome owners who would be willing to help others when they are traveling. The list also included what specialty tools they have to assist with any repair. Roger continued to maintain the list for several years, then Billy Massey volunteered to maintain and update it till present. This “GMC Assistance List”, a.k.a. the “Black List” is of GMC Motorhome owners/ supporters who are making themselves available for whatever assistance they can offer to other GMCers while on the road traveling. Whether it is only to answer the phone to tell them where the auto parts store is or to help change out an engine in your driveway, all owners are needed. This help is GMC specific. Sorry no help for those in an S.O.B. (Some Other Brand). This is exclusively for GMC Motorhomes. We would like to have all GMCers on the list, but on it or not, you are welcome to use it.
And the third addition this year is...“The Black List” It is great that Billy Massey has been actively maintaining this important list. GMCMI is pleased to assist Billy in promoting the list by providing production, printing, and first mailing of the Black List for the GMC Community to enjoy.
It has helped innumerable GMCers in need during their travels as well as helped prospective GMCers find their dream coach. To sign up to be a member or to download the list, see: http://www.gmcblacklist.com.
We are all at our best when we are working together and pulling in the same direction and I believe this is proof positive of how much good can be done helping each other.
Please include other pertinent information such as facilities, tools, knowledge, coffee, tea, libations, and what time happy hour starts.
A copy of “The Black List” will be in the Spring Mailing (the all-important envelope). It is available online at http://www.gmcblacklist.com. If you would like additional printed copies, they are available at https://www.thegmcmhstore.com for $10 each (including shipping).
Seriously, we just want to have someone with local information to avoid pitfalls to fellow travelers who have problems.
Elsewhere in this issue, you will find a profile of Billy and Debbie Massey. I hope you will read it. (see page 11)
There is also a handy list of GMC Service & Repair Suppliers at the end.
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The GMC Motorhome Network One of the most common misconceptions that I hear from our membership is that GMCMI is an “umbrella” organization. It is not. GMCMI does not have “chapters”, nor is there any link between GMCMI and any of the regional chapters/groups. I think that was by design by the founders of this organization, and it has been carefully kept in place and in my opinion, a sound decision.
Now, if you are like me and want more than two large events each year, there are many regional chapters/groups that may be close to you that you might want to join as well.
GMCMI is a volunteer organization (note: we do have a paid contractor), and our goal, as stated in our mission statement, is “….dedicated to promoting the legacy, enjoyment, and use of GMC Motorhomes. Our goal is to provide fellowship and technical information through continuous improvement of communications and conventions.”
For example, I serve on a committee with the GMC Great Lakers, and attend many events with the GMC Dixielanders, and the GMC Tidewater Crabs.
To that end, we maintain the GMCMH Parts Interchange, the GMCMI Publication Article Index, and without a doubt the best magazine of any organization our size. We also partner with other organizations that have things to offer to the Community and offer advertising to our suppliers/vendors who are a tremendous source of information for all aspects of our coaches.
Pictured at right is a map of the regional chapters/groups and contact information for each.
We have two Conventions each year, and host many technical sessions put on by our members.
As we emerge from this pandemic, the regionals have been taking appropriate steps to be able to hold rallies. They are based on the state restrictions for the location of the event and, I think, a lot of common sense. Attendance at a rally is truly a gathering of friends and, as at home, friends look out for each other. Friends are also not afraid to say “I am not comfortable with that” and step back a bit or wear a mask, if they so choose.
We are organized in areas with an area vice president for each. The area VPs conduct an area meeting at our Conventions, and bring that important information back to the board. WHO IS MY This critical AREA VP? feedback loop Margie McLaughlin allows GMCMI VP Northeast to continually David Blackshear tweak and improve VP Eastern our printed, online, Lou Boone and Convention VP Southeast offerings. Randy Van Winkle
Most of the people who are involved in GMCMI are also involved in their regional organization.
Our various communities in the GMC Motorhome universe are all equally important in making the social part and the technical parts work.
I recommend that owners join GMCMI and at least the chapter/ Northeast Central Mountain group that is closest to them. There is aSouth lot going on, and Rocky you will be Great Lakes Western kept up-to-date throughEastern their communications. Southeast
Midwest
Northwest
GMCMI Area Map
VP South Central
Just remember that those meetings only work when you Lucy Weidner VP Midwest attend and offer Emery Stora feedback. If you think VP Rocky Mountain things need to be Gary Coaster improved or could be VP Western better and can not make Jerry Work the Convention, email or VP Northwest call the VP for your area. I am going to thank you in advance for your feedback because it is that important. Thank you. John Pryzbylek VP Great Lakes
GMCMI is but one of many organizations that are dedicated to our particular brand of vintage motorhome. 8
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Northeast
South Central
Rocky Mountain
Eastern
Great Lakes
Western
Southeast
Midwest
Northwest
GMC Regional Chapters/Groups GMC Cascaders Oregon, Washington, Idaho, British Columbia, and Alberta www.gmc-cascaders.com
GMC Nor’easters Northeastern portion of the United States and neighboring Canadian provinces www.gmcnoreasters.org
GMC Great Lakers All States and Canada Provinces touching the Great Lakes www.gmcgreatlakers.org
GMC Greater Midwest Classics Iowa, Minnesota, Nebraska, North Dakota, South Dakota, Wisconsin, Manitoba, and Ontario www.gmcmidwestclassics.org
GMC 6 Wheelers Illinois and surrounding states www.gmc6wheelers.com
GMC Forty-Niners Northern California and Northwest Nevada www.gmc49ers.com
GMC Colonial Travelers New Jersey, Pennsylvania, Maryland, and SE New York www.gmccolonial.com GMC Heritage Cruisers Covering Parts of Ontario, New York, Pennsylvania, Ohio, Michigan, and West Virginia www.gmcheritagecruisers.com
GMC Flatlanders Kansas, Missouri, Oklahoma, Arkansas, Nebraska, Iowa, and Colorado Randy Van Winkle | 417-429-5925
GMC Mountainaires 500 mile radius of Denver, CO www.gmc-mountainaires.org
GMC Pacific Cruisers Southern California (Los Angeles to San Ysidro) www.gmcpc.org
GMC Classics Arkansas, Louisiana, Oklahoma, and Texas www.gmcclassics.com
GMC Dixielanders Alabama, Georgia, Kentucky, Mississippi, Tennessee, and the Western Carolinas www.gmcdixielanders.org
GMC Saguaro Jetset Arizona https://bit.ly/3zINOtN
GMC Western States Mainly drawn from the 11 western states and 3 western provinces of Canada. www.gmcws.org
GMC Eastern States The Mississippi River and east in the United States and Canada www.gmceast.com
GMC Tidewater Crabs GMC Tidewater Crabs Delaware, Maryland, New Jersey, Pennsylvania, Virginia, and District of Columbia www.gmctidewatercrabs.com
GMC Sunshine Statesmen Florida www.gmcss.com
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The GMCMI Convention What’s ahead after canceling not one, not two, but three Conventions? How about a Welcome Back Convention? The Welcome Back Convention, where on September 24-30 a great group of people with a peculiar motorhome affliction will descend upon the Northern Wisconsin State Fairgrounds in Chippewa Falls, Wisconsin for six days of fun, fellowship, good cheer, and clever and intriguing technical sessions.
2021 GMC MOTORHOMES INTERNATIONAL
WELCOME BACK
CONVENTION
The Leinenkugel Brewing Company is nearby, as is a number of wineries and breweries, museums, and the Chippewa River Trail which has some very nice wooden bridges and walkways. If what’s happening with the incredible turnout to the events that I have seen thus far, re-opening fever is about to appear in Chippewa Falls, and it is coming in a GMC Motorhome. I hope to see you there! On to the Spring of 2022, and we are hoping that the third time is a charm – after canceling two events in Patterson, Louisiana, we are back on April 22-28, 2022, for that “Cajun Crazy” experience. Looking way ahead is our “GMC Eclipse Convention” in Mineola, Texas featuring the total solar eclipse. According to the experts in these celestial events, we are going to be optimally positioned to view the eclipse on April 8, 2024, in the mid-afternoon. Yes, it is something you will want to plan that far in advance and it will be memorable. Check out the eclipse map. No better place to be to view the total eclipse. Be there. One common question about the Conventions is site selection. There are some key issues for all of our Convention sites that include power, water, restrooms, and showers. Then things get a little more complicated. We need a hall to hold all of us and classrooms for the tech and social sessions. The hall to accommodate all of us is generally the largest single hurdle. That – and scheduling. The more ideal facilities are generally purpose-built (fairgrounds) and about every organization that needs what they have is booking the facility. Not to mention their primary purpose, which can span multiple weeks, and conflict with our schedule. There is also the balance between different parts of the country and trying to keep everyone happy. It is a difficult task. At any given time, we are looking into numerous sites throughout the country. It is not easy and everyone will not be pleased. We have had some amazing site locations, with wonderful things to do near-by. I know that trend will continue. 10
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SEPTEMBER 24-30, 2021 CHIPPEWA FALLS, WISCONSIN
The GMC Community I am a firm believer that a huge contributor to the ongoing success of the GMC Motorhome is the Community. The quality of the construction by General Motors is a factor. It is not a “sticks and staples” motorhome. Many quality-built motorhomes from that era are long gone. The difference is the GMC Community. There are enough of us enjoying these machines that a cottage support industry has surrounded the coach and continues to support the coach. I can not tell you how much I appreciate our supplier/vendors. I believe that one of the things that keep us going is each other. The Community is, in fact, the most powerful driver in the continuing success of the GMC Motorhome. I am proud to be a small part of the GMC Motorhome story.
A GMCMI Member Profile BY JANET FREY | GMC VINTAGE RVING MAGAZINE EDITOR
Long time GMCMI member, BILLY MASSEY, is the administrator of the GMC Assist List, aka, “The Black List” and the GMC Motorhome Registry. He created his first website in 1998, bdub. net, that quickly morphed into a premier information site for GMC Motorhomes. In 2000 he created the website for the GMC Classics club as well as the GMC Motorhome Photo Archive. He has been deeply involved with GMCs for 23 years. In the past few years, he has developed the Facebook groups, Classic GMC Motorhomes and the GMC Motorhome Marketplace to lend support and info to prospective and existing GMC Motorhome owners. But who is Billy? And who is the woman behind this busy fellow? I had a chat with the delightful couple to get some answers. Billy explained that he first encountered the GMC Motorhome when his employer’s competitor purchased a 1976 Palm Beach. His employer was a fan of the FMC. Billy said he was so impressed by the GMC that he thought maybe he should go work for the competitor! By the way, Billy was a welder in Plainview, Texas, doing “a little bit of everything”...tractors, carnival rides, drilling rigs, pump jacks, etc.
Billy and Debbie pictured with Captain Jack at the Spring 2019 GMCMI Convention in Tallahasse, Florida.
Masseys so that they could make the repairs and get on the road again. After repairs, they stopped at the shop to return the tools. They had no other problems, except for driving through a very powerful storm! Billy and Debbie have been married since April 1971, and have two sons and four grandsons. Debbie noted that there are very few girls in the Massey family! And, Billy said that Debbie was responsible for them meeting and dating. Actually, it sounded like a Camaro had a lot to do with it, but you can ask them about that! When I asked Debbie about her career, she explained that she worked as an IT manager in a mental health facility for 27-years until she retired in 2018. This fun couple has contributed much to our GMC Community, and we look forward to seeing you both in Chippewa Falls, Wisconsin this fall.
In 1986 they moved to Brownwood, Texas where he worked for 3M as a production hand until retirement in 2014. As he explained, he really liked building things and 3M did not offer that fulfillment, but they paid well, and it was a good job to take him to retirement. He became involved with the Registry and also the Black List, and he noted that Facebook is instrumental in the growing interest in the GMC Motorhome. There is technical information available through Facebook, but also through supporters like Billy who encourage and assist those interested in the GMC Motorhome. By the way, Billy and Debbie have owned their 1976 Palm Beach since 1998. They also noted that they have owned 3 or 4 others at various times with different floor plans, but always came back to their original 1976 Palm Beach. Billy said that we all have heard the horror stories of someone picking up their “new” GMC and driving it home with numerous adventures. In Billy and Debbie’s case, they bought it and had to drive about 250 miles to home. During their trip, late one evening, they had a blowout. Even though they had a spare tire, there was no lug wrench! So, they took their car and went to the next town for help. By then it was 1:00 am and there was only one convenience store open. The young lady working there happened to be the daughter of an auto shop owner. She contacted her dad who loaned tools to the
The Massey’s 1976 Palm Beach fondly called “Sweet Pea”.
Billy’s GMC focused websites/facebook pages: https://www.bdub.net https://www.gmcblacklist.com https://www.gmcmhphotos.com https://www.gmcmhregistry.com https://www.gmcmotorhomemarketplace.com and Facebook groups Classic GMC Motorhomes https://www.facebook.com/groups/ classicgmcmotorhomes The GMC Motorhome Marketplace https://www.facebook.com/groups/gmcmm/
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Martini, Anyone? BY KAREN E. BREEN 1978 ROYALE | BIRMINGHAM, MICHIGAN
The finished toy hauler representing the Metro New York Porsche Club of America.
I enjoy finding unique exterior designs and uses of our beloved GMCs and Porsche owner Robert Schmitter’s 1978 Eleganza II is my all-time favorite. Five years ago, Robert acquired his GMC Motorhome as a means of hauling his 1973 Porsche 911 RSR from racetrack to racetrack. Robert is a Long Island native and owns a construction company in East Hampton. He attends east coast social events and races, traveling as far west as Hershey, Pennsylvania. He jokes that more people go crazy over the GMC, worth $8,000 than the Porsche, worth $80,000+. Kids just go nuts over it. We all know that feeling, right? Robert’s dad bought his first Porsche in 1955. He is 89-yearsold now. Growing up, they always had Porsches as kids. His dad and he were on a Ferrari team in Europe. After a while he began collecting Porsches. One day he was at a vintage race and he thought, “I need something to pull my vintage Porsche. I would love to get an old GMC, which I always loved. So I saw one and bought one from a guy in Ohio. I brought it to my dad’s in Ocala, Florida and he and I ripped it all apart and we made it the Martini livery, just like my Porsche. Once I began to get into it, people at the Porsche events just loved it.”
It was located in Ohio and he hired a company to transport it to his home in East Hampton. Within the first 50 miles, it conked out. The driver opened up the air cleaner and found a bird’s nest with three live baby birds in it! He even took the birdies to a vet! Robert ended up driving the GMC to his father’s garage in Ocala because it was fall, getting into winter and they could easily work on it there.
Robert’s 1978 Eleganza II interior, “before.”
Robert bought the Eleganza II with 72,000 miles for $3,500 from the original owner who wanted $5,000 for it on eBay. Demolition of the 1978 Eleganza II.
The Eleganza II “before”. 12
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The 1978 Eleganza II interior under construction.
Then again, about four miles from his father’s house, it blew all the belts. Robert drove it without water and power steering. He replaced the exhaust with Thorley headers, a new intake, carburetor, all new belts, and electronic ignition. Robert indicated that the condition of the GMC was probably a “4” out of 5 (with 5 being the worst in the condition ratings for old cars). Robert said, “My friend owns a graphic store in East Hampton and he did all the Martini Racing decals. We did the whole thing ourselves. It used to be a beige color, like a yellowish-beige. And all we did was take two-foot-wide adhesive vinyl rolls and put the rolls on two foot at a time, vertically, and squeegeed it out. All the vinyl was silver, so the entire GMC became silver. Then we put the graphics on.” I was astonished to hear this; I have seen various photos of the GMC and I have never seen a seam.
1971 Formula One LeMans Livery: “The Pink Pig.” The inspiration for the Robert’s next project: Converting a 1978 GMC 26-footer Eleganza II into this livery.
and brown sofas’), and in perfect condition, I sold it and that new owner, in turn, sold it again because it was too much for him to work on. The transmission was slipping. The glass was perfect but the rubber seals were gone.” They polished the exterior and it would start but the transmission problems and rust were too much of a project.
The Eleganza II “getting her racing stripes.”
“Ever since then, we have had it to Porsche shows in Florida, New York, the Hershey Swap Meet. Now it is stored at my friend’s garage in Delray Beach, Florida. We turned it into a nice on-site racetrack hangout. It has LED lights and a sofa. Adding the tell-tale Formula One We got rid of the stove and Martini livery stripes. refrigerator and use three Yeti coolers placed on shelves where the refrigerator was. There is a folding desk and we have a larger closet where we keep our racing suits.”
On the ferry from New London, Connecticut to Orient Point, New York.
So, Robert migrated to another 1978 Eleganza II that he is going to make into the 1973 Porsche Pink Pig livery. Looking at the Porsche images, you will see that a “butcher’s diagram” of the pig is outlined on the car in German: Haxen = leg, Schulter = shoulder, Rüssel = snout, Hals = neck, Wamme = belly, Schwantz = tail, Schinken = ham, Kotlett = pork chop. It is a cute, if not the wackiest, design. I wonder how all that pink is going to look on the GMC! Robert, you will have to send pics when it is complete. And of course, we want to see the before and afters as well!
He has slept in it once, for two nights while at Lime Rock Park Raceway in Lakeville, Connecticut. “Over Labor Day weekend they have a large vintage car show. We had the awning extended and it is like brand new! We had the Porsche underneath the awning. Everyone loved it!” About six months ago, Robert bought a 1976 Birchaven 23-footer with 62,000 miles. It was from Connecticut and he is going to do another Porsche livery design, “the Pink Pig”. He only paid $3,500 for the GMC, but paid a fortune to tractor-trailer it to East Hampton. “When I brought it home I noticed that the frame was rusted out, from the wheels on back. So even though it was all original inside (he described the interior as having ‘nasty yellow
The design created a stir. It’s the butcher’s marks for parts of a pig...written in German!
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It is All Because of My Father. That sounds accusatory, and sometimes it is, but my father’s love for motorhomes and traveling in them is clearly what resulted in my affliction, or affinity (depending on whether you ask me or my wife), for GMC Motorhomes.
The EM-50 Tribute Project PART 1: FROM A YOUTHFUL FOUNDATION
BY ROSS VIGUET | LEWISVILLE, TEXAS | 1977 ELEGANZA II
My plan to refurbish my 1977 Eleganza II to freshen the interior, rebuild the drive train, and rework the exterior appearance seemed like a rational, if not particularly well planned, idea. As I write this, it is the third anniversary of having shipped my GMC Motorhome from Dallas to Orlando for its refurbishment, which ultimately became the EM-50 Tribute Project (the “EM-50” being the Urban Assault Vehicle that was the centerpiece of the 1981 movie “Stripes”). The EM-50 Tribute Project is closing in on completion, but the coach still sits with its dash completely removed, the chassis fuse block removed with the wiring harness cut and all the wires dangling, the fuel tanks on the ground, the rebuilt engine installed but the fuel injection and ignition systems needing to be finished, and a number of smaller tasks remaining throughout. There have been a number of twists and turns along the way, not the least of which was the onset of a global pandemic resulting in work shut downs and parts delays. Some of the challenges have been self-inflicted, such as making a switch from the initial plan of painting the coach in the original beige base with brown striping to painting the coach in the five color EM-50 livery. As I daydream about getting to drive and enjoy my reworked coach one day soon, I have also taken a look back to try and figure out how I got to this point. Seriously, what on earth compelled me to purchase a 40-year-old motorhome and to undertake the lengthy and costly process of refurbishing it, ultimately evolving in the EM-50 Tribute Project? In doing a little reflecting, I can see that there were two major driving forces leading to my purchase of a GMC and then the EM-50 Tribute Project: (1) The love of motorhomes in general, and GMC Motorhomes in particular, instilled in me from a very early age; and (2) My having used (or sometimes, attempting to use) a 40-year-old motorhome. I will share a little bit here of how I came to have an affinity for GMC Motorhomes and will save the tale of my particular GMC Motorhome and its path to the EM-50 Tribute Project for a subsequent installment (hopefully when it is completed enough for me to use it).
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In the mid-60s my father purchased his first motorhome (he had a pop-up camper before that, which I believe may have been homemade). I do not recall the particular make or model of that first motorhome, as I was around 4-years-old when he purchased it, but the motorhome was the ubiquitous box riding on a Dodge chassis. [Editor’s Note: The motorhome to which the author is referring has been identified as a Frank Motor Home. Later on in the 60s Ray Frank formed Travco and, thus, it became the Dodge Travco.] We referred to this beast as “the land yacht” in light of its bulk and the interior being finished out in a nautical theme (motorhomes were not a “thing” yet in the 60s, so the light fixtures, furnishings, etc. were harvested from the sailing industry). Although I was very young when we had the land yacht, I have some very vivid memories of rides and trips in it. I recall stopping at gas stations and often having strangers come up to ask what it was, whereupon Dad would proceed to give them a tour. I felt like we were famous every time we took it out because of all the attention it received. Dad was a man before his time. Not only did he have a motorhome before most people even knew what they were, but he even pulled a towed behind it well before toweds were common. His towed vehicle was a 1964 Jeep CJ5 Tuxedo Park (which at the time of this writing I still own), which by itself would garner some attention but when coupled to the land yacht really made heads turn. One trip in particular I recall was when Mom and Dad decided in 1967 we would visit my aunt and uncle for Christmas in Tarrytown, New York. We loaded up Mom, Dad, me and my three siblings, and our housekeeper (think Alice from “The Brady Bunch”) in the land yacht and headed from Fort Smith, Arkansas to Tarrytown, New York. We were going to visit New York City for Christmas! My Mom was the consummate planner, so we stopped at many locations along the way, with the ones coming to mind being the Smithsonian Museum (yeah, Dad drove the land yacht into DC) and Centenary College (that is what it was called back then – now is call Centenary University) which Mom had attended in New Jersey. Between stops, I remember sitting on the dog house over the engine looking out the window and playing tapes on the 4-track player Dad had installed. I loved “These Boots are Made for Walking” by Nancy Sinatra and “Downtown” by Petula Clark. On the road between our various site-seeing stops, I would insist on playing them over and over on the trip, much to my older sister’s chagrin (she comments to this day about “These Boots are Made for Walking”). Our stay with my aunt and uncle in Tarrytown was like something out of a Norman Rockwell painting. My
Ross and older sister Suesann posing in front of the land yacht in its berth in the driveway.
The 1964 Jeep (in its original pink paint) on a trip with the land yacht.
Dad, older brother Bert, and older sister Suesann on a trip to Yellowstone in the land yacht.
uncle was an executive with IBM and had a very nice house that backed up to a pond. It would ice over and the neighborhood used it as an ice skating rink complete with a warming hut. The return trip to Arkansas in the land yacht had fewer stops. However, my older sister had her eighth birthday during the return trip, so we distracted her at one stop while we decorated the motorhome’s interior and had a birthday party for her on the road. I do not remember much about the party, except that my little sister got sick and threw-up into the potato chip bag! Dad sold the land yacht in the early 70s and was without a motorhome for several years. In 1974, Dad and one of his friends (Steve, the stepfather of one of my good friends, Bubba; I mentioned I was from Arkansas) decided to put together a weekplus-long deer hunting trip to Wyoming and Montana. Dad still had the Jeep which would be perfect to use on the hunt, and Steve had a new motorhome that we could use for the trip. It was a 1973 GMC Sequoia (floor plan 26-9), painted parrot green on the exterior with green seats and bright green cabinet faces on the interior, that Steve
Mom, older brother Bert, older sister Suesann, and younger sister Sara (Katie is barely visible behind Mom) with the land yacht (in its new red paint) on a stop at Centenary College.
purchased new the year before. They called it “the pickle”. The first time I saw it was when Steve’s driver, Mac, brought the pickle by the house for us to load up our gear and attach the Jeep to the back. Looking over the shape of this motorhome compared to the ungainly box of the land yacht, there was really no comparison. Dad seemed to have already studied up on it because he was pointing out all the features to me. He explained to me that it was front-wheel drive, using the engine and transmission from the Olds Toronado. The inside was so bright with the greens, light wood, and very large windows. This was the coolest thing I had ever seen! Mac drove the pickle with all our gear with the Jeep in tow to Casper Wyoming, where Dad, Steve, Bubba, and I flew in to join him. This was in October of 1974 and we were traveling to hunt on ranches somewhere north of Casper, near Bozeman, Wyoming, and in the area of West Yellowstone, Wyoming. You hear tales today of GMC Motorhomes getting stuck in wet grass, but I can tell you that we traveled in the pickle in snow, often up and down considerable grades, and I can only recall
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one time we had to unhook the Jeep and have someone drive it separately. The pickle performed admirably in those conditions, and provided a warm and comfortable environment from which I was able to take in scenery such as Firehole River, Old Faithful, and the Grand Tetons. The pickle carried two spare tires for that trip, which were studded snow tires. When we encountered snow-covered roads, the front tires were switched out for the two spare tires, and off we would go. We also carried a set of chains for the front tires, but I believe we only put them on once. The hunting trip in the pickle was memorable in many ways. We spent the evening of Halloween on a main street in West Yellowstone. The motorhome drew lots of attention, as the GMCs were still new and most people had not seen them before. I was so proud to be in the motorhome that was garnering so much attention. The local kids would come up and knock on the door and we passed out candy. There was an incident where a rifle was discharged inside the pickle and the bullet passed through the roof just behind the passenger’s seat at the rail for the cockpit curtain. Steve, Mac, and Bubba were flying back after the hunt, and Dad and I were to drive the motorhome back to Arkansas. Steve and Dad wanted the bullet hole fixed before the motorhome was brought back, to try and prevent the wives from finding out about the incident. The motorhome came with a large book of GMC Motorhome dealers across the country that work on them. There was a servicing dealer listed in Aurora, Colorado, so Dad and I headed there. It takes quite a while to fix a bullet hole in the roof of a GMC Motorhome, so Dad proceeded to unhitch the Jeep and we drove the topless Jeep, with falling snow, from Aurora to downtown Denver to visit the Eddie Bauer store. Dad and I spent a lot of time together on that hunt in the pickle, and some of my best memories of Dad are from that trip. Dad was bitten by the GMC bug and about a year after that trip he bought the pickle from Steve. Mom and Dad were less about camping and more about traveling in a motorhome, so they replaced the dinette with a sofa and replaced the
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Ross getting ready to pass out candy from the pickle on Halloween in West Yellowstone.
Ross and Bubba posing by the pickle while camping in Yellowstone on the hunting trip (this is where the bullet hole in the roof of the pickle occurred).
Dad sold the pickle when I was off at college in the early 80s. He replaced it with another GMC Motorhome, a 1976 GMC Edgemont (floorplan 26-7). I did not have much history with that motorhome since I was off at college. What I remember most about that motorhome was that every time it ran over railroad tracks a wheel cover would depart the vehicle (and if I was onboard, I had to retrieve it) and it suffered frequently from vapor lock. I helped Dad add an electric fuel pump and some sort of insulation to the fuel line at the engine, but we were never able to solve the vapor lock issues. Although it was a beautiful motorhome, it did not live up to the pickle and its tenure was relatively short. Dad had a number of non-GMC motorhomes in the years following the Edgemont, including several Winnebagos and several Xplorers, which were all fun in their own way but not a GMC.
stove and oven with a custom bar. Over the six or so years Dad owned the pickle, we took a lot of trips and made a lot of memories. At Christmas, Mom and Dad would load us all up, put a Christmas tape in the 8-track, and drive around looking at Christmas lights. When we came to a friend’s house or a client of Dad’s, we would stop and have them in for drinks from the bar and pass out gifts. We would often do day trips to northwest Arkansas or even Tulsa, Oklahoma for lunch on the weekends. We made innumerable trips to Dad’s duck club in southeast Arkansas, where I would stay in the motorhome since it was much nicer than the Rice Paddy Motel. I spent hours with
Dad working on the pickle and loved it. As I got older, Dad would have me drive the motorhome and had a procedure of setting the cruise control and switching out drivers without stopping (the flat floor cockpit configuration made that possible, albeit ill advised). The summer between my junior and senior year in high school, Mom and Dad took me and two of my friends for a week in South Padre Island, Texas, camping on the beach at Isla Blanca State Park (again, with no issues with the front-wheel drive getting stuck). During my senior year in high school, Dad would let me take the motorhome on my own trips, so I was able to do things like load up my friends to travel to out of town football games in the pickle.
Ross with the Ultrastar on the first of many campouts with four other neighborhood families.
The Ultrastar (28’) with the boat (24’) loaded up during a campout at Lake Murray, Oklahoma (the first weekend after 9/11).
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Having grown up with motorhomes and having such fond memories of the pickle, I was destined to obtain one myself one day. In the late 90s when I was in a position to buy a motorhome, I began looking for a GMC. Dad discouraged me getting such an old motorhome and strongly suggested that I get something newer. I settled on a 1991 Champion Ultrastar. I chose it specifically because it had the general shape and size (at 28’) of a GMC and provided visibility as close to the GMC as I had seen in another motorhome. It was a great coach, and my wife and I took our two daughters on some great trips in it, including the Grand Canyon, Vegas, Disney World, and
South Padre Island. We would often go camping with a group of neighborhood families and I would sometimes tow a 23’ boat behind it. Although the Ultrastar was a nice coach and I made some lasting memories with my girls, I always regretted not getting a GMC. As my interests drifted to flying, we finally sold the Ultrastar in 2004. I was without a motorhome for a number of years, but I never lost the desire to own a GMC Motorhome. In December 2016, after flying had become impractical for me and without doing any research except to learn that early 1977 was the last of the 455 engines and was the first year of the most improved cab air conditioners, I decided I would buy a GMC Motorhome. In particular, I wanted one that was in good condition with an essentially original interior having a floorplan similar to that of the pickle (I wanted the davo instead of the swivel chairs, so a floorplan 26-3). I looked at one nearby my home in the Dallas, Texas area, but it was rotted out on the inside and the wheels were buried up to the axles in the owner’s back yard (but the owner was proud that he started it once a month, so the engine ran). I drove to Austin, Texas to see another one and, although in better condition than the first, had suffered significant water damage to the interior. I found an online ad for a 1977 Eleganza II with the correct floorplan at a classic car dealer in Lakeland, Florida, which
was convenient since my second home is in Orlando. They sent me a walk-around video and the coach seemed to be a nice example of a survivor with not only the floor plan I wanted, but a 455 engine and cab air conditioner that I had hoped for. The next day I wired the purchase price, sight unseen, and made plans to travel to Lakeland in January 2017 to pick it up. Only after I made the purchase, did I join various online GMC groups to discover the wealth of information and support that is available. In addition to learning that I overpaid for my new GMC, I also learned that there are people who specialize in working on them, including one in Orlando (it had never crossed my mind that there were others like me that loved the old GMC Motorhomes). I reached out to the Cooperative Motorworks in Orlando and scheduled to have them perform a mechanical review of my new-to-me coach. Upon picking up my new purchase, I drove the coach directly from the classic car dealer in Lakeland to the Co-op in Orlando for its first stint there. This began my experience with use and attempted use of a 40-yearold motorhome, culminating in the “EM-50 Tribute Project” of today. I will share tales of that adventure in the subsequent installment of this writing.
The EM-50 Tribute Project SHARE YOUR EM-50!
BY DOLPH SANTORINE | GMCMI PRESIDENT
No matter where we go, fuel stops are a flurry of “thumbs up”, questions, “what year”, and comments like “nice”. We all grin when that happens. People who know the movie “Stripes” immediately recognize the GMC Motorhome as “just like in the movie” (Well, less some armament, the rear hatch and the bulletproof shades!). I’m the proud owner of a personalized license plate, EM-50 (the only one in West Virginia).
There are coaches with “Hot Wheels” EM-50’s stuck on the dash, and I know of at least two other coaches in different states with license plates that are either “Stripes” or “EM-50”. So, let’s do another President’s Challenge – “Share your Stripes or EM-50 photos!” Take a picture and email it by July 31, 2021 to kimweeksgmc@gmail.com. It can be anything that references the movie, or it’s 12,000 lb. “Star” that we all know and love so well. It is going to be interesting to see who is doing what. There has to be a lot of memorabilia out there, and I cannot wait to see it! A drawing will be held with 12 winners! Each winner will receive either a “Stripes” Hot Wheels or movie and their photo will appear in the summer issue of GMC Vintage RVing magazine. Enter today!
The EM-50 (tribute) out of its long stay in the paint booth and receiving its rebuilt engine and transmission.
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Letters to the Editor
SUBMIT YOUR LETTERS TO ADMIN@GMCMI.COM
NASA
serving containers that were premeasured and capped, and cornbread was prewrapped in one serving packages. Sanitizer was also provided, and we felt that the hosts were very diligent in their presentation.
The Unsung Hero...
The Dipstick
Rob Mueller | 1977 Custom GMC Paddington, NSW, Australia
Fred Hudspeth | 1978 Royale | Tyler, Texas 1982 Airstream Excella (GM chassis) Motorhome | Cooper Landing, Alaska
of American Space Flight
G’day Kim, It’s the Pedantic Mechanic Downunder! I subscribe to “Hagerty Insider” and I get daily emails from them about all sorts of vehicles and a couple of days ago I got an article titled: “The Unsung Hero of American Space Fight is … a Van?” I thought it might be of interest to GMC owners as it mentions the Airstream Motorhome. Here’s a Tiny URL link to the article: https://tinyurl.com/d8bds2af Trust all is well.
Reading Fluid Levels
Judging from postings on the GMCNet and my own experience, many owners find it difficult to get reliable fluid-level readings on the engine and transmission dipsticks – especially for the transmission. An article in “Hagerty News” appeared in the May 5, 2021 edition that addresses modifications to the dipsticks to make them easier to read. I requested permission to re-publish that article in this edition of GMC Vintage RVing but Hagerty’s senior editor advised “Unfortunately, Hagerty Media does not allow any form of reprinting of their work. You are free to share that web link, https://tinyurl.com/2w7yh3j9, as I am afraid that’s all I can offer to GMCMI magazine”.
Precautions Taken Observations at a Rally
Janet Frey | 1976 Palm Beach former owner Milford Square, Pennsylvania
Great Marketplace Thank you!
Donald Brough | 1978 Royale previous owner | Newville, PA
The motorhome sold last week so you can take the listing off your website. Thanks, it was a great place to advertise, we had a bazillion hits. Thanks again! 18
Fortunately, the weather was perfect and the venue was a private location, not a campground, but we feel that if hosts can provide this type of approach to a gathering, there should be no hesitation to join in and have a fun time!
We just returned from a friend’s rally and we thought we would share some thoughts. While some restrictions have eased as vaccines for COVID are administered, these hosts took precautions during their group meals. For example, they did not use picnic tables but instead urged everyone to bring their own chairs and small tables. Also, everyone used their own utensils and beverages. The hosts served chili (while masked) from a roaster, but all condiments (sour cream and shredded cheese) were provided in one
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My Choice...
2021 Rand McNally Atlas Keith Weeks | 1973 Custom Painted Desert Pharr, Texas
Many of you may like relying and using your GPS but I still like to look at a map and see where I am going. I have searched for many years and each year it appears that Walmart has the best deals. Whether you prefer paperback, spiral, protective vinyl cover, medium print or large print or ones that include the National Park Guide! They are priced from $7.95 to $23.95.
Submit a Letter to the Editor. The GMC Vintage RVing magazine wants to hear what you think. Send your email to admin@gmcmi.com. By submitting a letter, you have agreed to let us use it – in part or in full – in our magazine and/or in our eNews. By default, our published letters include a writer’s full name, city, state, and GMC Motorhome information.
Exploring the the Exploring
GMC Motorhome Motorhome History History GMC A column by Bill Bryant, GMC Motorhome Historian, where he will A column by Bill Bryant, GMC Motorhome Historian, where he will share tidbits of the GMC Motorhome history with us. share tidbits of the GMC Motorhome history with us.
GMCMotorhome MotorhomeToys Manuals? GMC & Items
“0022” Has Arrived!
Not of a thriller read, butthat necessary The GMC Motorhome has had a large variety toys and items were youcan are see going to be available during the period of motorhome information manufacture.ifYou a few informed GMC examples that I had collected in the photo an at right. Going fromMotorhome smallest These manuals to largest they are, HotWheels Palm Beachowner/operator. (orange), Hess Training Van, come in GMC many Motorhome forms: operators, GMC fiberglass 18” model (orange), Barbie modelservice, parts,the assembly, wiring, (that I painted like my Palm Beach) and finally full-sized “real”drawings, GMC Motorhome, the greatest toy of all! maintenance, upfitters, recalls, etc. and then of course, make sure you have the yearGMC for your coach. Hopefully The one model I want to discuss hereright is the built fiberglass model. Why did GMC buildsome it, how many werecame with your of these manuals built, what happened to them? GMC and although these are out of print from GM/GMC, fortunately are alternatives. This 1/16 scale model was initially built to there determine the drag coefficient (CD) for the GMC Motorhome design and was tested at the Guggenheim can sometimes wind tunnel in California. While GM also Used had acopies wind tunnel it was saidbeto found on eBay or at fleatunnel markets. be not as accurate, so time was obtained at the Guggenheim wind I personally like the idea of the and tests were run. As I noted in my GMC history GMCMI Flashdrive or the GMCMI article, “The GMC Motorhome, from Start to website with all that information at Finish...” (read at gmcmi.com/basic-history), the your finger tips. You can purchase results were great – they were slightly better than the GMCMI Flashdrive for $20 early 1970s Corvette of the time. It shouldthe be noted (including that typically in studies like this, those usual external shipping) at www. theGMCMHstore.com (hopefully protrusions like mirrors, roof air conditioners, vents, you travel with a computer. I always windshield wipers, awnings, etc. are not included. carried a set of manuals when I traveled). They came in handy more While the original thanused once in my 200K plus miles of test model was travel. A flashdrive is smaller,inlighter, and less expensive than hard copies. 1971/1972 the
mold for that model An area we have not addressed is the GMC Motorhome/Transmode sales was likely put away brochures. Considering the GMC Motorhome and Transmode were only built and forgotten. By for six model years, you might think there was very little to see out there. Not the time 1974 rolled around, a couple of the so! I had a collection of over 40 different brochures, many of these can be seen original engineers were about to retire and I at the GMCMI.com website or on the GMCMI Flashdrive. suspect someone had the idea it would make a great retirement gift from GM. I have been told by one those engineers that he thought Purchase a GMCMI Flashdrive fromofthe GMC Motorhome Store: Alex Birch, GM Foreman about ten of the models were built. We www.thegmcmhstore.com Experimental Shop currently know where six of them are.
TZE063V100022 Floor Plan: 26-3 The second GMC Motorhome sold to the public has now been transported from Wisconson to its new home at the Pontiac Transportation Museum in Pontiac, Michigan. It now resides less than two miles These five GMC Motorhomes from the Bill Bryant GMC from its original GMC location Motorhome Collection giveMotorhome you an idea build of their relativein sizes. Pontiac. The actual move of the GMC had some bumps along the way, but kudos to Kathy of Certified Auto Shippers 503-985-6161 in getting them resolved and the GMC moved to the museum. Kathy is the owner of a GMC Motorhome and has moved many as well. The coach is now being checked for needs. Lists are being made, photos being taken, and finding volunteers to help make “0022” a functional and shining example of the second GMC Motorhome sold to the public. Your support for this restoration is needed and appreciated. Our next step will be organizing volunteers and initiating a GoFundMe to support the effort of restoration for Pictured left: John Locklin, GMC Engineer holding the “0022”. above GMC Motorhome at the 1996 GMCMI Spring Convention in Titusville, Florida. Note the participation. above photo We are eagerly looking forward to in your that the large side window shows as a three-section window. That was the design at the time these models were built when theyVisit discovered it could not be sealed they changed the Pontiac Transportation Museum website: to the two-piece production design. www.pontiactransportationmuseum.org
Have a historical question about the GMC Motorhome? Submit it to gmc.bill@gmail.com 12
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Generally Speaking Ò
QUESTIONS, TIPS, INNOVATIONS, AND MORE
The “Generally Speaking” column, is a place to share maintenance ideas, parts, tips, innovations, and more. We all have encountered situations that tested our creativity and ability to think outside the box. So, here is a place to share these ideas, or even request a solution. Contact GMCMI Admin with your ideas or questions, and look for them in a future magazine.
Making Life Easier in My GMC Kim Weeks | Managing Editor
I thought we would do something a little different in this issue of the magazine, so here goes. Did you know for three years at the GMCMI Conventions that Kerry and Carolyn Pinkerton from Harvest, Alabama conducted six sessions on “Making Life Easier in My GMC”? It was held to discuss non-mechanical issues (we save those for the tech sessions) but to simply make life easier in our wonderful GMCs. As a member benefit on the GMCMI website, these six downloadable files of the ideas are available. But for now, here are just a few items from those sessions. • The bathroom vanity shelves slope down and stuff falls out. Use double sided tape or silicone to put some clear drywall corner protectors on the edges. Keeps things in place and you can see through it.
• Good idea to have a bag with shoes and important papers you can grab on the way out. Keep cell phone in bedroom. Most fires are between 2-4 am. • Making the rear bed, sew the top sheet to the fitted bottom sheet. Use spatula to tuck into mattress. • Ice cubes in holding tank while traveling, breaks things loose and helps get everything out. • To gain a lot of space under the kitchen sink, move the ‘P’ trap to the back wall instead of the center of the space. Works the same but frees up a lot of space. • A black tank deodorizer one gallon jug: big squirt of Dawn, 1/4 cup Lemon Lysol, water, add to black tank, cleans and deodorizes. • Use the metal awning hook to retrieve plastic tubs to store out of season clothes under bed. • Change our all fluorescent and incandescent lights in the coach to LEDs. They last a long time, draw very little current and generate virtually no heat.
• Use square collapsible containers to store food and other items. Less wasted space and more stackable.
• Know how to get out of the coach if a fire. Know where the fire extinguishers are. Keep a hammer to break window in the bedroom. • Road noise can be reduced by sealing off gaps in the firewall, especially the steering column.
Check out all six sessions of ideas at https://www.gmcmi.com/ technical-presentations-papers/ in the miscellanous section.
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• There is a lever on the door lock (inside the door), when set, the door will only lock with the key from outside. Impossible to lock your keys inside. Still locks with the knob from inside. • To dry a wet bath after a shower, use a foam paint roller to roll up moisture. • Add a switch to turn on the water pump in the bathroom. • Vodka in a squeeze bottle is great for removing mold and mildew. You don’t even have to wipe it up. • Bounce dryer sheets seem to keep mice out. So will Cayenne pepper. • Ever left your gas cap at the station? Put a magnet on your gas door (it is steel) to hold your gas cap while you fuel. Some folks put their gas cap in the slot where the fuel nozzle goes. Can’t put the hose up without picking up the cap. • Comet around your wheels keeps ants away as will a ring of Vaseline on your water hose, TV coax, and power cord.
As Mentioned in the President’s Corner...the GripStik!
The GripStik is a reusable sealing rod that locks air and moisture out to prevent your chips, pretzels, snacks, and cereal from going stale, prevents freezer burn and keeps food fresh longer.
A GMC Motorhome Vendor Profile BY JANET FREY | GMC VINTAGE RVING MAGAZINE EDITOR
FRANK AND NENI JENKINS (Gainesville, Florida) have been attending GMCMI Conventions for such a long time that it is hard to remember when they were not there! Recently I had the pleasure of chatting with Frank and Neni about their involvement with the GMC Community and with each other! Frank began his involvement in the GMC world when he bought his GMC, a used 1977 Kingsley, in the 70’s. As he explained, when he bought it, the “GMC was wore out!” Being a mechanic, he worked to get it into traveling condition, ready for some fun. Then, Hal Lively recruited Frank and Neni to join the GMC Sunshine Statesmen, thus beginning their journey in the GMC Community. They also joined GMCMI, and he became, in his words, the “Chief L to R: Rodney Gens, Frank, and Keith Weeks. Negotiator of the Liar’s Table”. Many of us have seen him presiding over the regular attendees and unsuspecting newbies, telling amusing stories and making everyone feel welcome. He also has been known to allow women to take over the “table”. Frank also noted that he was the coffee maker for 10 to 12 years. I asked him how he became involved in the fiberglass products that he has been selling forever. He said that a friend wanted a spare tire cover. He made the mold and the business was off and running. Next came fan shrouds, then a dashboard, flares, air dams, sun visors – a total of 42 molds! This was all the result of people asking for the products. Frank has always been a clever fellow, explaining that he also was a deputy sheriff, mechanic, and farmer – all at the same time! When he was a mechanic, he started a business that lasted 20 years. As a farmer, he grew corn and tobacco and raised hogs and cattle. Right now he has goats. He explained that he has two pine tree fields. One is clear of undergrowth due to the goats. What a difference they make! He said they are wonderful animals. When I asked how Frank and Neni met, she said that Frank’s cousin married her sister. Frank and Neni were guests at a party. Neni asked for chewing gum, so he got it for her and that was all they needed! By the way, it was Dentyne gum! They courted for two years and now have been married 67 years. They have one
daughter, two granddaughters, and six great grandchildren. He noted that one of the granddaughters has three boys, and really wanted a girl. So, one more try – and she had twins, one boy and one girl! Frank and Nini are so proud of their family and how they are so loving and mellow. I told them that is definitely the result of loving and caring parents! I asked if Frank still has parts to sell, and he said YES! There is an ad in this magazine, but Frank can be reached at 352-485-1397 or 352-281-8082. He will be happy to chat with you! I am sure that it will be a great conversation. Finally, Frank and Neni were very clear as to their favorite of all their hobbies – the GMC Community. They have used their GMC to do extensive traveling, including a trip to Central America. But they really enjoy the members of the GMCMI. They are the “best, good people.” Their GMC is presently awaiting a new engine, but they hope to be on the road again. Be sure to look for them – they are so easy to recognize with their big smiles and Frank’s cowboy hat!
Check out their vendor listing on page 28 and at www.gmcmi.com/suppliers/
SPRING 2021
GMC MOTORHOMES INTERNATIONAL
21
Technical Corner
MAINTENANCE, RENOVATIONS, AND MORE
Improving the GMC Motorhome Rear Airbag Control Systems Written by Bob Dunahugh | 1978 Royale | Cedar Rapids, Iowa – Tested by Ken Shaffer | 1973 Canyon Lands | Marion, Iowa and Bob Dunahugh
There are three variants of our rear airbag control systems. On the early GMC Motorhomes, there are two round knobs that the driver uses to control the rear airbags. The mid-year coaches use solenoid valves controlled by the driver using switches. Both of these first two systems employ a single 12-volt compressor and a small air storage tank. The last variant was put into production around January 1 of 1978. This last system was quite advanced for its day. It has electronic ride sensors in each rear wheel-well, two air compressors (one for each side), no air tank, and only two air supply lines, one to each airbag. When leveling at a campsite, all of these variants require some sort of small bubble level and time manipulating the up and down airbag switches to get the coach level.
involved. As to the late 1978 system, it turns out that the install is similar to the 1976.
Keith Vasilakes’ MicroLevel System can be installed on any of the original three variants and can have Switch panel with an electronic controller your coach leveled before you get to the outside door. After parking at your campsite, you press the camp button and a microprocessor will level the coach front to rear then side to side. The morning that you are leaving the campground, you press the travel button and the microprocessor will bring the coach to the correct height for travel.
The system uses Cadillac ride height sensors.
L to R: Ken Shaffer, Bob Dunahugh,and Keith Vasilakes holding Delila (the Dunahugh’s fur baby.
Keith first installed a MicroLevel System on a 1976 coach. He then wanted to understand what the installation process would be on a 1973-74 coach as well as a late 1978 variant. Keith came to Cedar Rapids, Iowa to install the MicroLevel on Ken Shaffer’s 1973 coach and on Bob Dunahugh’s 1978 coach. He reviewed and evaluated the installation processes needed on those two coach variants. He found that the installation on the 1973-74 coaches would be more
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During the install process, the system is calibrated for both travel mode and campsite leveling. Travel height calibration on the original three variants is a difficult process that is simplified by the MicroLevel System. There is no provision for automatic campsite leveling on any of the original three variants. Both Ken (1973 coach) and Bob (1978 coach) have been very pleased with how accurate and simple Keith’s MicroLevel System works. They are extremely impressed with the quality and workmanship of the MicroLevel System.
The kit also comes with a remote control key fob. The remote control is handy when draining the holding tanks. From outside the coach, you can easily press a button on the key fob and cause the coach to “squat” making dumping the holding tanks more efficient. There are also common issues with filling the gas tanks. It is difficult to determine when the tanks are full and slows as gas gurgles into the tanks. Sometimes Remote Control FOB gas splashes back resulting in damage to the paint as well as getting gas on hands and clothes. Some find that getting a better pitch of the gas tank filler tube front to rear helps to mitigate these issues. With the remote key fob, it is easy to drop the rear of the coach while outside and when back in the coach after fueling, press the travel button and you are Note: If an owner is ready to hit the road. As Ken having problems with the Shaffer said, “I can’t wait to “knob” controlled system on a pull into a campsite or a gas 1973-74 coach and chooses not station with people, gawking to install the MicroLevel System, at my GMC when I hit the J.R. Slaten (Classic Coaches & down button and the valves Accessories) has a high-quality dump the air and let out the upgraded replacement for the PSHHHH sound as the coach valves that solves those issues. drops. I love shock value!” See ad on page 28. Check out the following: • MicroLevel Introduction • MicroLevel Install-Operation • MicroLevel Diagram www.gmcmi.com/air-suspension/
For technical session presentations and papers, go to www.gmcmi.com/technical-presentations-papers/
Cold Air Shower Ken Henderson | 1976 Birchaven | Americus, Georgia
After installing a heating element in my roof air conditioner I was not satisfied with the amount of heat being produced. Thinking that there might be better heating with more airflow, I made a trivially simple modification to the unit’s cover: I went to a building supply store and found an adjustable (on/off) plastic air conditioning register. It was very simple to cut a suitable hole in the plastic cover, immediately below the heating element, and secure the register over the hole with two sheet metal screws. As the photo shows, I did not find plastic in the correct color and have not painted it to match. The mod did give us more heat. Even better, as indicated by this title, it gave me a much-appreciated “Cold Air Shower” to use when I come in overheated in the summer! I turn the air to MAX, open the register, and stand beneath it ‘til the goose pimples appear’.
Thank you to the GMCMH membership for the many updates received for the GMCMH Parts Interchange. We very much appreciate the hard work of Mark Elmer who has been updating all of the NAPA parts numbers for several years and it is a valuable part of our task to keep our information up-to-date. Because of these effort we are able to assist the GMC Community in keeping these vintage vehicles on the road. Kim Weeks, Managing Editor
Your GMC Motorhome Information Source...www.gmcmi.com We welcome all historical and technical information. If there is something that you would like to share, please contact admin@gmcmi.com. Thank you!
SPRING 2021
GMC MOTORHOMES INTERNATIONAL
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Technical Corner
MAINTENANCE, RENOVATIONS, AND MORE
The Basic GMC Fuel Tank System Ken Frey | 1976 Palm Beach previous owner | Milford Square, Pennsylvania
Over the years, there have been many questions about the unique arrangement of the fuel tanks on the GMC Motorhome. Most owners are aware that there are two tanks, each with a capacity of about 25 gallons. However, from there it gets interesting!
GMC Motorhome Gas Tank System SIDE VIEW
Fill Tube
• How to fill? • How to park when filling? • Where does the fuel go? • And what about that mysterious switch on the dash?
Fuel Tank Selector
ENGINE & GENERATOR SUPPLY Fuel Tank Selector
left side. Its exact position is between the generator supply fitting and the fuel tank sender. The sender is located top center of the fuel tank and supplies the fuel to the engine. There is also a 3/8” vent hose and a 3/8” fuel supply hose that comes off the
Configuration of the Tanks Please refer to the diagrams. You will note that there are two tanks, one in the rear (main), and one in front of the rear tank (auxiliary). The two tanks are not identical.
sender. And, the sender has a potentiometer to regulate the current resistance on the dash gauge, thus indicating the fuel level. The fuel sender should have a sock inside the tank to coarsely filter large particles from going into the fuel lines.
TOP VIEW
Auxiliary Fuel Tank
Main Fuel Tank
Replacement Fuel Tank Selector
Golby Motor
Fuel Lines to Fuel Pump and Carburetor
Replacement Gas Tank
ENGINE SUPPLY
Fill Point
Replacement Fuel Tank Sender
ENGINE & GENERATOR SUPPLY Fitting for Fuel Line to Generator
Fuel Tank Selector
Fuel Tube
Sirum GMC
Applied GMC
GMC Motorhome Gas Tank System
Differences: The rear tank, also known as the main tank, supplies fuel to the engine, but also the generator. There is a 1/4” hose that comes from the generator to the tank. There it connects to a fitting for the tube that goes into the tank, and it goes to within one to one and a half inches of the bottom of the tank. It is purposely designed that way so that the tank cannot be fully emptied, leaving you stranded! Most RVs have that feature.
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Main Fuel Tank
ENGINE SUPPLY
Here is some information to help solve the mysteries and answer some long-standing questions.
From underneath, both the auxiliary tank and main tank look identical. However, on the top, the main tank has the fitting for the generator supply in the left rear corner, and a 5/16” vent hose that exits to the
Auxiliary Fuel Tank
Fill Point
Fuel Line to Generator
Note: The diagrams are only showing the fuel supply side and not the venting. Technical sessions on venting have been schedule for the Fall 2021 (Ken Frey) and Spring 2022 (Paul Doane) Conventions.
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For technical session presentations and papers, go to www.gmcmi.com/technical-presentations-papers/
The auxiliary tank has the same fuel tank sender, except that the 5/16” vent hose is located toward the front of tank in front of the sender, and is pointed toward the right side of the coach. How the Tanks Work with the Switch Mounted on the left inside frame rail in front of the fuel tanks is the fuel tank selector valve. It has an electrical solenoid. With the switch on the “FUEL MAIN,” there is no current to the selector valve and the fuel is drawn from the main tank. If the switch is turned to “FUEL AUX,” the valve is energized and the fuel then is drawn from the auxiliary tank. The switching must be done manually – it does not automatically switch from the main to aux. If the selector valve leaks externally, it is no good. Period. If it leaks internally, the valve will malfunction when the fuel level is low, basically sucking air, and the engine will not perform. What happens when the tanks are being filled at a gas station? First, be sure all pilot lights are off. The fuel will go to either or both tanks at the same time. It does not matter where the switch is set (main or aux). The fuel will randomly transfer between tanks as you drive. If the gauge reads 3/8 capacity, that means that is the maximum fuel left. On level ground, if the right rear is dropped when refueling, it seems to fill easier. However, remember to set the leveling switches to travel before leaving the gas station. When approaching an unlevel gas station it is better to be going uphill for refueling. Also, when refueling, be aware of the fuel level. The GMC is notorious for “burping” fuel when it is almost full. If you have had this experience, you know what I am talking about! What this means is that a small amount of fuel will actually expel at
the fill. The best solution is to listen for the gurgling, then stop filling for a moment until the gurgling stops, and then resume filling slowly. What happens when you are traveling on hills? The fuel will level between the two tanks. Therefore, it can move from one tank to the other. If you are low on fuel, there may be an issue with fuel supply to the engine. It would be wise to have an ample supply of
Fuel Tube
Auxiliary Fuel Tank
fuel if you expect to travel in hilly areas for an extended period. This is basic information on the fuel tanks on a GMC Motorhome. However, owners and previous owners have been known to make modifications on many systems, including the fuel systems. So, get to know your vehicle! Take note of its characteristics and go accordingly. But, most of all, enjoy your GMC!
Main Fuel Tank
If the main tank (rear) is selected and used until it is empty, there remains about 7-9 gallons in the auxiliary tank, unless you go up or down hill. The generator will not run when the main tank is empty.
Fuel Tube Auxiliary Fuel Tank Main Fuel Tank
When going uphill the fuel runs from the auxiliary tank to the main tank through the the fill tube. Main Fuel Tank Auxiliary Fuel Tank Fuel Tube
When going downhill the fuel flows into the auxiliary tank. Due to the position of the fill point, it is suggested to select the “FUEL AUX” when going up and down hills because the majority of the fuel will end up there.
SPRING 2021
GMC MOTORHOMES INTERNATIONAL
25
Technical Corner
MAINTENANCE, RENOVATIONS, AND MORE
What Can a Thermal Camera Do for Us? Dave Stragand | 1978 Transmode (former shuttle) | Cranberry Township, Pennsylvania
What if you could see a water leak inside of the ceiling? Or a lack of insulation in a wall? How about an overheating wire before it starts a fire? Or an overheated wheel bearing? Heat is a form of light, though not in the spectrum we can see. Through the use of infrared cameras, ‘hot’ and ‘cold’ can be converted to the visible color spectrum. In the past, these types of cameras were very expensive and limited to professionals. About the closest most folks got to owning one was the small non-contact infrared thermometers we have all gotten so familiar with during the pandemic. These days, there are several small infrared cameras that simply plug into your cell phone – available for under $200.
imaging is also helpful in spotting water leaks, as wet areas usually appear ‘cooler’ than the area around them. High resistance from loose, corroded, or overloaded wires show up as hot spots. Often, you can even see these issues through ceilings, walls, and floors. A simple glance at the screen can
make you aware of issues you did not even know existed. An infrared camera can show you past damage, current issues, and potential future problems. It is a great tool for your coach and home.
How the outside of our coach appears in infrared.
PetaPixel
One such model is the FLIR ONE, available for both Android and iPhone. The FLIR ONE is smaller than a Zippo lighter, but shows you a full-screen heat image on your phone, with an overlay of the visible image to help you zero in on what you are seeing.
In infrared, it is easier to see places on your coach where the heat or cold is creeping in. The greater the temperature differential between the inside and the outside of the coach, the easier it is to spot the problem areas. Infrared
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The glow from the hot exhaust manifold is apparent even within the first minute after startup.
Has the exhaust crossover already been blocked off? That’s something else I can check with the infrared camera.
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GMC Motorhome Supplier/Vendors List >> FULL SERVICE, PARTS & REPAIR FACILITIES Alex Sirum GMC Jeff Sirum | 863-763-1121 | sirum@gmcmh.com | www.gmcmh.com 1800 Hwy 70E, Okeechobee, FL 34972-3279 Specializing in GMC Motorhome sales, service, repairs, and hard to find parts. We ship to all states and Canada. New updates available. Applied GMC Jim Kanomata | 510-440-1101 | 800-752-7502 mail@appliedairfilters.com | www.gmcrvparts.com 38424 Cedar Blvd, Newark, CA 94560 Specializing in GMC Service, repairs, and parts. Final drives with various gear ratios, headers, 3” mandrel bent. Low every day prices on thousands of RV parts...plus tips and a “free” tech line. Cooperative Motor Works Jim Bounds | 407-857-5777 | 877-275-4462 coopmotorworks@yahoo.com | www.gmccoop.com 6101 Anno Avenue, Orlando, Florida 32809 Information, parts and service for the GMC Motorhome. Repair and maintenance to full renovations available.
Cooperative Motor Works Jim Bounds | 407-857-5777 | 877-275-4462 coopmotorworks@yahoo.com | www.gmccoop.com 6101 Anno Avenue, Orlando, Florida 32809 Information, parts, and service for the GMC Motorhome. Repair and maintenance to full renovations available. Gateway Motorhome Company 636-931-8282 | 800-654-0374 | www.gmcmotorhomeparts.com Committed only to the GMC Motorhome since 1986. Large selection of GMC Motorhome parts. Shipped daily. Golby Motors 352-793-7000 | golby@golbymotorcorp.com www.golbymotorcorp.com 3375 County Road 528, Sumterville, FL 33585 Specializing in GMC Motorhome service, repairs, and original body parts. Check out our website today! Grandview Motorhome Tom Hampton | 937-644-4238 | 937-537-1612 cell grandviewh@gmail.com 13880 Weaver Road, Marysville, Ohio 43040 Miscellaneous GMC Motorhome parts. SS brake and tranny lines.
Golby Motor Corp 352-793-7000 | golby@golbymotorcorp.com www.golbymotorcorp.com 3375 County Rd 528, Sumterville, FL 33585 Specializing in GMC Motorhome service, repairs, and original body parts. Check out our website today!
>> OTHER PART SUPPLIERS Alan Henderson | Large Format Electrical Diagrams info@midgacomputers.com www.bdub.net/GMC_Motorhome_Wiring_Diagrams.pdf Large format electrical diagrams. Honda EV4010 and EV6010 mounting templates at full scale.
>> SERVICE & REPAIR FACILITIES Bob Stone 618-964-9124 | Carbondale, IL Service and repair. DJ’s Classic GMC Motorhome Service
Albert Branscombe | Parking Brakes | $525 519-368-7129 | branscoa@bmts.com | www.bdub.net/branscombe/ 33 Rae Street, P.O. Box 44,Tiverton, ON, N0G 2T0 CANADA All SS/Alum/Teflon kit, includes all cables, pulleys, brackets. Also, Air Powered Actuator kit – $575. Disc brake parking caliper kit -$475. Complete instructions included. 10 year warranty.
Frank Borrman 519-335-3857 | Fax 519-325-6263 | frank@borrmannsgarage.com 86924 Brussels Line, Bluevale, ON N0G 1G0, Canada Complete gmc mechanical service and repair.
Blaine Merrell 765-522-3241 | dsekula@tds.net | www.bdub.net/blainemerrell/ 101 Way West Airpark, Bainbridge, IN 46105-9449 Front window screens, wind wings, lower radiator guard.
DJ Eberhart| 503-706-6402 | djsgmcs@gmail.com | www.djsgmc.com 233 NW Olive St., Sheridan, OR 97378-1125 Cinnabar certified service and repair. New and used GMC parts.
>> COMMERCIAL PARTS SUPPLIERS
Ken Frey Auto Repair has Closed but HE HAS PARTS!
Alex Sirum GMC Jeff Sirum | 863-763-1121 | sirum@gmcmh.com | www.gmcmh.com 1800 Hwy 70E, Okeechobee, FL 34972-3279 Specializing in GMC Motorhome sales, service, repairs, and hard to find parts. We ship to all states and Canada. New updates available. Applied GMC Jim Kanomata | 510-440-1101 | 800-752-7502 mail@appliedairfilters.com | www.gmcrvparts.com 38424 Cedar Blvd, Newark, CA 94560 Specializing in GMC Service, repairs, and parts. Final drives with various gear ratios, headers, 3” mandrel bent eExhaust parts, mufflers, trannies, and engine replacement. Low every day prices on thousands of RV parts...plus tips and a “free” tech line for assistance.
Please watch for an online auction in the near future! Many GMC Motorhome parts still available (Milford Square, Pennsylvania). If you are interested in any GMC Motorhome parts prior to the auction, please contact Ken Frey immediately at 215-536-1246. Call between 8 a.m. and noon, EDT, Monday through Thursday.
SPRING 2021
GMC MOTORHOMES INTERNATIONAL
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GMC Motorhome Suppliers List Bob Burkitt 513-530-5021 | rburkitt@cinci.rr.com | www.bdub.net/bobburkitt/ 11382 Marlette Drive, Cincinnati, OH 45249-2210 Offer repairs, parts, and accessories for existing Birch doors. Classic Coaches & Accessories, LLC JR Slaten | 502-836-2097 | jrslaten@aol.com | www.bdub.net/slaten 7702 Old Third Street Road, Louisville KY 40214-0341 Engine Oil Cooler Lines, Engine Oil Cooler Stainless Steel Rigid Tube Set Exact, Lighted Entry Handles, Power Level II Leveling Valve Set (1973 thru early 77) CruzinGear Christo Darsch | info@cruzingear.co | www.cruzingear.co GMC Motorhome Wall-Mounted Bottle Openers. Get Your Shine On. Custom Instrument Panels Mac McNeal | 704-985-0171 | cipdash@sbcglobal.net www.custominstrumentpanels.com 28585 Valley Drive, Albemarle, NC 28001 Custom instrument panels and instruments. Dave Lenzi 810-653-3902 | mlenzi@charter.net 2285 Montague Road, Davison MI 48423-9103 Steering components, leveler linkage, leveler valve rebuilding, embossed copper exhaust gasket. DJ’s Classic GMC Motorhome Service DJ Eberhart| 503-706-6402 | djsgmcs@gmail.com | www.djsgmc. com 233 NW Olive St., Sheridan, OR 97378-1125 Cinnabar certified service and repair. New and used GMC parts. DL Design Store Terry Taylor | 510-276-5111 | n6mon@pacbell.net | www.dldesignstore. com 801 Via Manzanas, San Lorenzo, CA 94580 GMC Model Name Emblems, personalized GMC paraphernalia. DMAR Enterprises | Stainless Steel Tanks Jim DeMaere | 403-329-3091 2812 – 48th Avenue South, Lethbridge, Alberta T1K 7B3 SS replacement air and water heater tanks.
GET YOUR SHINE ON. Heavyweight Polished Stainless Wall-Mounted Boole Openers
www.cruzingear.co info@cruzingear.co
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GMC VINTAGE RVING MAGAZINE | WWW.GMCMI.COM
Frank Jenkins | Fiberglass & Aluminum Parts 352-485-1397 | 352-281-8082 cell gmcfrank@yahoo.com | http://geocities.ws/gmcfrank/ 18214 NE 21st Street, Gainesville, FL 32609 GMC fiberglass and aluminum fabrication. Instrument panels, bumper covers, toolboxes, grills, skirts and flares, radiator fan shrouds. Gary Bovee 530-200-6247 | gary.bovee@gmcidiotsguide.com www.gmcidiotsguide.com 12495 Muller Avenue, Red Bluff, CA 96080 Alternator & A/C belt tensioners, Electronic Ignition Kit (Onan 4KW & 6KW), GMC valve stem caps, and Headlight & Turn Signal alarms. GMC RV Shades (formerly Guske Sales) Gary Coaster | 810-650-5111 | gmcshades@gmail.com 2600 Knob Hill Drive, Reno, NV 89502 “Guske” Day/Night shades custom fitted for GMC Motorhomes, outside window covers. High-End Motorsports 916-774-6686 | sales@high-end-motorsports.com | www.high-end-motorsports.com 8331 Sierra College Blvd, #210, Roseville, CA 95661 Made in the USA accessories, custom sunshades, plate frames, tags, receiver covers, and more. Jim Hupy 503-362-1583 | jamesh1296@gmail.com | www.bdub.net/jhupy/ 1754 82nd Avenue SE, Salem, OH 97317 | Master Cylinder Power Bleeder and Remote Controlled Wireless Air Suspension System. John Biwersi | Engine Cooling Fan | Direct Replacement 651-779-6498 | jbiwersi@mac.com 2938 N Mary St, Maplewood, MN 55109-1671 For all GMCMH that have the original steel blade fan. It is the same OD and pitch but has 10 blades instead of 7. Hub is steel and blades are molded nylon, this is not a “flexfan”. “Made in the USA” and is 100 % precision balanced to minimize vibration to the fan clutch and water pump. John Richardson 850-830-6100 | jrichsr@aol.com | P.O. Box 5191, Niceville, FL 32578 AMSoil synthetic motor oil. CamShield ZDDP motor oil additive. Keith Vasilakes | MicroLevel 763-732-3419 | my427v8@hotmail.com Intro, Install & Oper, Diagram at www.gmcmi.com/air-suspension/ 5131 Greenwood Dr, Mounds View, MN 55112-4834 MicroLevel: A Microprocessor controlled air suspension controller with RF Remote and Camp Ground Leveling. Ken Henderson | Electric Windshield Wiper Kit | $300 229-938-2797 | hend4800@bellsouth.net | www.gmcwipersetc.com 110 O’Hara Road, Americus, GA 31719-2140 GMC Motorhome Electric Windshield Wiper Kit. All mechanical and electrical parts to install your locally purchased electric motor w/ intermittent sweep. Free shipping for GMC Club members.
Classified Ads Rance Baxter 814-596-5254 | rancefi@frontiernet.net | www.rancefi.com 230 Mountain View Road, Genesee, PA 16923-9725 Port fuel injection, Cadillac and Oldsmobile engine cores, and 425 transmission/ final drive cores. Springfield Performance Ignition Dick Paterson | 705-325-4554 | Fax 705-325-3569 dick@paterson-gmc.com | www.paterson-gmc.com 3956 Line 11 North, RR#3, Coldwater, Ontario, Canada LOK 1EO Re-curved distributors. Rebuilt carburetors. Wire sets, 1973-74 points conversion. TZE Zone Restorations John R. Wright | 989-859-0715 | powerjon@chartermi.net 1196 E Olson Road, Midland, MI 48640-8610 Front Air Dam, Bolt kits for bumpers, axles, exhaust manifolds, & header. Variety Ventures Dan Stuckey | 519-844-2083 | stuckey@brktel.on.ca Box 105 3249 Inwood Road, Inwood, Ontario Canada N0N 1K0 New Main Frame Components (side rails, cross members, H-frames) DIY or I install, Macerator kits.
>> CAMPGROUNDS/RESORTS Road Runner RV Park Ray Doonkeen | 405-677-2373 | www.roadrunnerrvparkokc.com 4740 S I-35 Service Rd. Oklahoma City, OK 73129 Our new facilities boast a 6,000 sq. ft. Event Center/Rec Hall with full kitchen, 132 full hook-up concrete sites with grass, paved roads, four storm shelters, and free Wi-Fi. Closest RV park to downtown Oklahoma City & medical center. We are easy on & off I-35. Open year-round. South Bend/Elkhart North KOA Holiday Recreation Thomas Jetzer & Patricia Schenk Reserve: 800-562-2470 | Info: 574-277-1335 50707 Princess Way, Granger, IN 46530 | Open May 1- Nov 15 Enjoy the peaceful rustic feel of a wooded setting family campground, nestled between the cities of South Bend and Elkhart. We offer level full hookup RV sites, spacious deluxe cabins, rustic cabins, and Louise, our beautiful classic trailer! Plus 54-channel cable TV access and free WiFi. Private showers, restrooms, laundry, pool, snack bar, mini golf, bike rentals, arcade, gelato bar, Glo Wagon Rides, two CampK9®s and a room for RV rallies.
advertisement. I have sold the R.V. as of yesterday trying to update you as soon as possible. Thank you and GMCMI for the major help :)
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1973 – 26’ GMC Motorhome FL | $16,900 | photo(s) on www.gmcmi.com Second owner and stored inside. It has a 455 cu engine, 75,000 miles, generator, sofa, and table turn into beds, plus an awning. William MacKenzie | 352-873-7857 | bmack0121@gmail.com 1973 – Custom Canyon Land FL | $50,000 firm | photo(s) on www.gmcmi.com Jim has owned the GMC for the last 20 plus years. The previous owner had the interior done by Prevost. GMC was completely mechanically refurbished by Jim Bounds at the Coop with a new Drew Koba flat tappit engine, fresh transmission and all the other mechanicals needed. Jim Galbavy | 804-426-8022 | Ada Galbavy 407-687-2023 1974 – 26’ GMC Motorhome BC/WA | $16,500 US OBO | photo(s) on www.gmcmi.com This coach is a pampered survivor. All original with 86K original miles on the coach and 42K miles on a new 455 engine. Looks great, drives great, feels great. Sleeps 6. Looking for a good home. Stored 30 miles east of Bellingham, which is north of Seattle. Jim | dci1988@hotmail.com | 800-401-2211 1974 – 26’ GMC Motorhome IL | $26,000 | photo(s) on www.gmcmi.com Many updates mechanical and convenience. Stored inside after replacing rame and new paint job. Many upgrades and tow vehicle available. Ken Pickett | kjpickett46@gmail.com 1975 – 26’ GMC Airport Transport OR | $8,000 | photo(s) on www.gmcmi.com This was an airport transporter. It has no seats and is ready for someone with an imagination. The entry door, as you can see, is extra wide and will accommodate a wheel chair or, as we used it, for motorcycles. It has a 455 Toronado rebuilt engine and an automatic transmission. Body is in excellent condition. Terry | 503-320-0226 1976 Eleganza WA | $35,000 OBO | photo(s) on www.gmcmi.com $21k in upgrades done this past year. Drive train upgrade, new paint, new headliner, vinyl tile, carpet, brakes and Alco aluminum wheels. Richard 541-517-0194 | Rita 509-438-7103 | ritagray@gmail.com
1977 Eleganza II CA | $23,000/OBO | photo(s) on www.gmcmi.com Recently serviced and certified by Applied GMC in Newark, California! All repair paperwork and GMC manuals. Ronald Shoffeitt | bigbearmoon@aol.com
GMCMI members can place an ad in this quarterly magazine and on the gmcmi.com website free-of-charge! GMC Motorhome classified ads can include HH HHH MEMBER up to nine photos on the website. BENEFIT HH HH H Email your ad to kimweeksgmc@gmail.com. T
>> GMC MOTORHOME FOR SALE
1976 Palmbeach FL | $5,000 Owned GMC for over 20 years. Have gutted it half way. Stored under canopy. Outside is cream color. Have not started for several years. Call for more information. Steven Light | 850-980-0565
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I just wanted to say thank you a ton for our
Classifieds
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Classified Ads 1977 Kingsley Clasco – Price Lowered photo(s) on www.gmcmi.com FL | $60,000 $70,000 | Extensive update by Jim Bounds at the Cooperative Motor Works in 2016-2020. “New” 455 cubic inch engine – by Cinnabar. Bruce Bisping | 952-237-3882 1977 Eleganza II IL | $49,000 | photo(s) on www.gmcmi.com Complete renovation in 2010 and stored inside. Oldsmobile 455 engine replaced with a factory-rebuilt engine in 2013 for $12,649 and has 7,300 miles on it. Need to check list of updates and new items! Roger Deichman | 217-971-4972 | problemsolver50@gmail.com 1978 Palm Beach photo on www.gmcmi.com IL | $40,000 | Restomod frame-off rebuilt 455 motor, transmission, 366 final drive, front suspension, four bagger, Hydroboost stainless steel lines and hoses, macerator, stainless mandrel bent exhaust into 1 - 3” out. Bob Stone | 618-964-9124 1978 Revcon Chamelot 31.5’ w/Toronado drivetrain! photo(s) on www.gmcmi.com NC | $19,500 | Zombie Themed – Many repairs/new items done by Barry Owen in the past two years, plus additional mechanicals. Michael Owens at 336-225-1445 | Calls ONLY please.
>> PARTS/TOW VEHICLES/ETC. FOR SALE 455 CID Oldsmobile Engine CO | $750 Engine is from a 1973 GMC Motorhome: long block, was running when removed. Will deliver FREE up to 200 miles from Fort Collins, Colorado. Jim Egan | 720-308-4586 call or text 1973 Caddy Engine and Transmission CO | $3,000 takes it all! Perfect swap for a GMC Motorhome! Roughly 110,000 miles on the engine, 502 cubic in (“the mighty Caddy 500”!). Also have gantry crane from inside the motorhome. Local pickup only in Lakewood, Colorado. Briant Grossi | 303-921-4030 | briantgr@comcast.net 2006 Mini Cooper with Two Bar Set-up photo(s) on www.gmcmi.com WI | $8,500 | Est 60,000 miles and about 20,000 towed (not exact). Runs perfectly. Easy hook up. Some small dings on hood from towing. Bought it with coach last year, but do not plan on using it. Doc Frederick Prehn | 715-218-0831 | fred@prehn.co
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GMC VINTAGE RVING MAGAZINE | WWW.GMCMI.COM
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Apparel | Merchandise | Back Magazine Issues
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Visit the GMC Motorhome Store MEMBER
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GMC Motorhome Trivia Questions
BY BILL BRYANT, GMC MOTORHOME HISTORIAN
Take the Challenge...
6 The GMC Motorhome was built by:
Test Your Knowledge So, what do you really know about our GMC Motorhomes? This will be the first of three trivia question articles. Answers can be found on page 35. 1 The lower body molded panels are
made of: A - PFR B - SMC C - Aluminum
2 The 1977 model year had how many
different motorhome models built by GMC: A-3 B-4 C-5
3 Hot Wheels has made how many
variations of the GMC Motorhome: A - 18 B - Almost 25 C - Over 60
A - Mattel Hot Wheels Inc. B - GM Truck & Bus Corp. C - GMC Truck & Coach Division (Read more in the Summer 2020 GMC Vintage RVing magazine)
JR & Jeanne Slaten | 1978 Royale
4 Total production for the six years of
build amounted to: A - 12,921 B - 9,212 C - 21,621 (Read more in the Summer 2020 GMC Vintage RVing magazine)
5 The total number of different floor
plans offered in GMC Motorhomes were: A - Almost 20 B - Over 30 C - Over 45
7 Manufacturer suggested retail price
for a 1978 Royale was: A - $29,000 B - Around $40,000 C - Nearly $62,000 (Read more in the Fall 2016 GMC Vintage RVing magazine)
Flipbooks of the GMC Vintage RVing magazine are available at: www.gmcmi.com/gmc-vintage-rving/
calling all of you... ...who have knowledge on the GMC and just can’t keep quiet! Share this information! We need technical sessions for the Fall Convention, and you could be just what we are looking for! These sessions are critical to the success of the Convention, and you could be an essential part of our program. COME ON – you know you want to!
...who have quilting experience or not, but are willing to work on a special quilt. Stan and Eileen Edwards have donated past Convention t-shirts and what a great opportunity to make a special quilt! We need leaders, those who can sew, iron, laugh, and have fun! Let’s make this a fantastic social time.
...who love to be active. Volunteer to lead or help with: • crafts • choir director • musicians • non-tech presenters • bingo helpers • Pineblock Derby • behind the wheel instructor & helpers • have an idea – share it!
2021 GMC MOTORHOMES INTERNATIONAL
WELCOME BACK
CONVENTION
SEPTEMBER 24-30, 2021
CHIPPEWA FALLS, WISCONSIN 2021 Fall GMCMI Convention September 24-30, 2021 Chippewa Falls, Wisconsin
Contact Kim at 612-501-4600 or email her at kimweeksgmc@gmail.com.
Volunteer Today and Help Make the “Welcome Back Convention” the Best Ever!
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CAMPIN DCO UA G KM E R S HP A W IB AN ND SDHORUPACIFIC IGM PK EBROSI HL APCRUISERS WO TBLAUNCDK GMC S HMarch R I M25-28, P B O I2021 L P O TSanCalifornia LDimasU C K
BONELLI BLUFFS Bill Kittredge | 1978 Royale | Yorba Linda, SanCalifornia Dimas RV RESORT & CAMPGROUND California Ours were Breaking free of BLUFFS COVID restrictions in BONELLI RVCalifornia RESORTthe & GMC Pacific Cruisers Southern definitely the CAMPGROUND Motorhome Club gathered for a rally within young kids in the
www.trailerfestrally.com March 25-28, 2021 www.trailerfestrally.com
a rally at the Cajun Campin Vintage Trailer Rally hosted by Vintage Camper Trailers magazine. Publishers Paul and Caroline Lacitinola welcomed us with open arms for a gathering where, for once, our GMCs were not the oldest RV’s in the campground. How did GMC’s come to share a rally with vintage camper trailer owners? This all started in December 2019 during a Pacific Cruisers rally at Bonelli Bluffs in San Dimas, California. At check-in, we noticed a flyer for the Ragin Cajun Rally set for March 2020. It got us wondering… Were 40+ year old GMCs vintage enough to attend? Might the camper trailer folks even allow us entrance? We reached out to Paul and Caroline and they quickly set us straight. They saw the GMC Motorhome as a perfect fit. We quickly registered and were eager to gather in midMarch 2020 with over a dozen coaches… until COVID put a pause on all our plans.
Photos by: Susan Overman
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Fast forward one year and the rally was back on. Our registrations were still valid. As COVID restrictions eased, our club registered 20 coaches, 43 members, and at least six dogs for the three day event. We polished and scrubbed our GMCs top to bottom, inside and out, and proudly rumbled in for a showand-tell weekend among trailers and coaches dating back as far back as the 1930’s.
GMC VINTAGE RVING MAGAZINE | WWW.GMCMI.COM
mix, and we sure turned heads on arrival. The rally featured a shrimp boil welcome on Thursday night, delicious pastries and coffee every morning, a bring-your-own instrument sing-along on Friday night, a classic car show on Saturday, and finally a live Saturday night concert by The Ragin Cajun, Doug Kershaw, considered by most to be the “king of the fiddle players”. Paul and Caroline and their team made everyone feel so welcome, and so did the staff at Bonelli Bluffs RV Park. We all mixed and mingled around the crowd. Vintage trailer owners wandered through our coaches amazed by the large windows, six shiny wheels, the sexy lines, and the excellent use of space…some even remarking they may be ready for a newer vintage experience. The atmosphere was relaxing and fun, low-key and friendly, just what we all needed. We encourage other GMC groups to mix with the vintage camper trailer owners, and we know this is the beginning of a new relationship between the GMC Pacific Cruisers and the Vintage Camper Trailers magazine team. We will definitely be back for the 2022 Vintage Trailer Rally.
>> Trailerfest Vintage Trailer Rallies By Paul and Caroline Lacitinola Trailerfest Vintage Trailer Rallies have been going strong for 10 years. In 2010 the vintage trailer hobby was growing rapidly. It was challenging to get a reservation at one of the few rallies that were being organized. We decided to start a newsletter to let enthusiasts know where the rallies were being held and decided to host their own rally. That newsletter quickly morphed into what is now the Vintage Camper Trailers magazine. We decided that Trailerfest Rally would never be the same event twice. A Trailerfest rally follows a basic format that includes potlucks, group breakfast, live music, food trucks, and classic cars. The unique themes inspire participants to play along with costumes and decorations. Cajun Campin at Bonelli Bluffs in San Dimas, California was our first Trailerfest event in southern California. Having developed a relationship with the park management from other rallies at other parks, we were excited to bring our format to such a beautiful new campground. The “Cajun Campin” theme started of with a classic shrimp boil. We boiled shrimp, andouille sausage, baby potatoes, and corn-on-the-cob in water seasoned with Old Bay seasoning. Each portion was then topped with garlic butter. Due to COVID, some plans had to be adjusted. Group events like our pancake breakfast had to be changed to pastries and coffee. Following the car show on Saturday, Doug Kershaw, the Rajin Cajun, played for many appreciative fans. It was quite a weekend of outdoor fun after so many events in 2020 being canceled. Social distancing and masks seemed to make everyone comfortable with “getting back to normal.” Having groups like the GMC Motorhomes was a particular treat giving us trailer guys a glimpse at another part of the vintage camping scene. We hope to get the VW bus, van, and other similar groups involved in the future. We hope to see you at Trailerfest San Dimas, California in 2022. www.vintagecampertrailers.com | www.trailerfestrally.com
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>> Regional GMCMH Activities...
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>> GMC Flatlanders Work Rally – May 2021
>> GMC 49ers – March 2021
A work rally was held at Randy and Margie Van Winkle’s new barn near Springfield, Missouri. Projects included macerator installation, front-wheel bearing maintenance, tracking down air system leaks, airbag shut-off valves, and a transmission issue. There was plenty of food to keep the workers energized! Twenty-five people attended the rally.
Twenty coaches gathered at Flag City in Lodi. It was somewhat surprising the number and went to show that everyone missed their 49er friends. We had a great time at the white elephant exchange.The ladies decorated Easter eggs on sticks. The weather was fair, warm and comfortable.
>> GMC Sunshine Statesmen – April 2021
>> GMC Sunshine Statesmen – May 2021
We meet at Zachary Taylor RV Resort in Okeechobee, Florida. We enjoyed pontoon ride on Taylor Creek. The men had a fieldtrip to Alex Sirum GMC and stopped for lunch. Edie and James, a couple that has a Palm Beach, sang for the crowd. The audience really enjoyed the music.
We meet at Jekyll Island where we installed our new board. We enjoyed on Thursday dinner at Jinright’s Seafood and on another night we shared our favorite crockpot meal. Ladies had a great time creating beautiful birdhouses.
GMC VINTAGE RVING MAGAZINE | WWW.GMCMI.COM
For technical session presentations and papers, go to gmcmi.com/technical-presentations-papers/
TO SUBMIT A RALLY DATE Email date and information to kimweeksgmc@ key to proper handling gmail.com >>
GMCMH Events Three Clinics... Calendar
Due to the constantly changing of events during this time, please check the GMCMH Community Calendar for up-to-date Thank>> you. Windshield Replacement Fire Suppression Systemsinformation. |
It is important to note that This is a big job! Thank you, Ken Burton Jim Bounds Go to www.gmcmi.com/gmc-calendar/ side impacts the weight on for organizing and Meyer Glass & Jim’s presentation was via video conference nt wheel. Mirror for installing them. There were from his location in Orlando, Florida. The he torsion bars for the front 28 windshield replacements. audience viewed/heard him on the large screen sential in balancing front in the tech program meeting room and he in Replacement Windshield nd ride height. turn could view the audience and hear their Clinic at the 2021 Fall 2021 oading too light and ride questions from the floor. This was the first of Convention? , the caster angle will be three video conferences with presenters whohas confirmed that Ken Burton ngle needs to be maximizedWELCOME BACK theinguys that have previously could not attend the Convention person. 5 to 3.5 degrees for good worked with Ken to offer It is important to note that Jimthis donated clinic have agreed to do cations made without proper an engine fire suppression system at thisin Chippewa Falls, it again f weight balance Wisconsin. They are currently Convention for the raffle. He did this SEPTEMBER 24-30, 2021 working on availability, price, can result in CHIPPEWA FALLS, WISCONSIN as a tribute to the late Fred and 2021 Fall GMCMI Convention Weighing of the page Coaches etc. Watch the GMCMI eNews>> and/or GMCMI facebook ing. September 24-30, 2021Diane Dugger who died in a for additional information. Thanks and congratulations to Ken Burton coach Chippewa Falls, Wisconsin tragic highway accident on and the entire team of volunteers, for aling. their way home from the an efficient weighing of coaches at the Spring 2019 GMCMI Mansfield Convention. Thank you goes to o Convention in Tallahassee, Alex Sirum GMC (Jeff Sirum) for making Regional Chapter/Groups Opportunity eing Florida. Exceptional tech sessions! arrangements to have the scales available. at Consider utilizing one of the GMCMI Conventions So glad that I came 29 coaches were weighed and had their Jimasdescribed the various one of your rallies, it comes with benefits! vel before buying. ride height checked. Seven returned for a types of fire suppression e We invite you to to utilize one of our Convention GMCMI second weighing. new member, systems and emphasized facilities for your rally. Either come in a day or . first Convention things that need to be GMC MOTORHOMES INTERNATIONAL
CONVENTION
Attendee Comment
two early or use our Convention as your rally
ur uestion Old ng Questions) |
d Lou Boone
considered and for fire safety in a and/or business meeting. hold a social motorhome.
We take care of the registrations for you! We offer coffee, bottled water, paper products, Key points of his presentation: etc.for atdealing no cost for your gathering. • It is essential to have a plan
E
LIPSE
CONVENTION April 3-9, 2024 Mineola, Texas
with fire. What a deal! GMCMI.com • Doing diligent preventive maintenance is afacilities available on Contact Kim today, milar to those of the past with a first come, first served basis. vital prerequisite for fire prevention. d to ask questions on any 612-501-4600 | kimweeksgmc@gmail.com • Cited most likely locations where home. It was a lively session >> Headlight Alignment motorhome fires occur – and means of e information exchanged Thank you to Richard Waters for acquiring prevention. tors and the audience. theevent equipment GMC Motorhome Trivia (page 31) • UseAnswers fire suppression equipment designedÒ for We welcome photosand andconducting writeups. the clinic. Owners enjoyed having the ability to have 1 - B SMC – Sheet Moulded of discussion were: Submit them to kimweeksgmc@gmail.com. the typeCompound of fire that is likely to occur. 2 - C 5: Palm Beach, II, Kingsley, Thank you.their headlight alignment checked and , • Eleganza Fire fighting products are a small niche Coca Cola/Gadabout, and Transmode adjusted if needed. mp noise and accumulator business because the customer base in 3 - C Over 60 general does not think they need the 4 - A 12,921 total production mbing, product. 5 - B Over 30 olume sensor, 6 - C GMC Truck &• Coach Strongly recommends GMC Motorhome Division ion valves, 7 - B Around $40,000owners reject that thinking and consider switches, fire suppression systems for the refrigerator, ng, Onan and engine plus some hand held SPRING 2021 GMC MOTORHOMES INTERNATIONAL units. April 22-28, 2022
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E
GMCMI
LIPSE
CONVENTION APRIL 3-9, 2024 Join us at the 2024 Spring GMCMI Convention in Mineola, Texas located near the eclipse centerline and experience the total darkness of the eclipse together! Mark you calendar today!