GMC Vintage RVing magazine – Summer 2021 by CEVA Design

Summer 2021 | Issue 156

GMC MOTORHOMES INTERNATIONAL

A magazine dedicated to promoting the legacy and use of GMC Motorhomes

H 25 Years Ago

Two Movie Stars

H 40 Years Ago

[

The EM-50 Tribute Project Part 2: Are We There Yet?

[

GMCMI 2021 Fall Welcome Back Convention

[

Technical Corner

president’s corner

GMC MOTORHOMES INTERNATIONAL

GMC Motorhomes International was founded in 1982 by Ralph Luby

Welcome Back! One of the things I was taught early in my career was “if not you, who?” and “if not now, when?”

>> GMC Motorhomes International Admin:1214 N Jefferson Way Ste 352 Indianola, IA 50125

The answers are YOU at the “Welcome Back Convention” in Chippewa Falls to be held September 24-30. I hope to see you there.

Corporate: 1402 So Cage Blvd, Unit 273 Pharr, TX 78577 | 612-501-4600 admin@gmcmi.com | gmcmi.com >> 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 Flipbook 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

Dolph Santorine

A great way to wrap up the summer and transition into fall is at the GMCMI Convention. Attendees at the Welcome Back Convention will need to sign off on a COVID-19 waiver/release. It is nothing you have not seen before, and it is surprising to me how similar the waiver is between so many different types of organizations, us included. A common problem, and a common response. I sincerely hope that those who plan to attend will stay within their comfort zone, and if that includes wearing a mask, that’s fine. Not wearing one if vaccinated is just fine, too. If you want to maintain the six-foot separation, we will all understand and no one will assume their deodorant has failed. This is how we are going to have to roll in this post-pandemic world. Our convention manager, Kim Weeks has prepared a superb schedule for our Convention, with vendors and a great group of tech sessions. There is so much going on that you will have to plan your time carefully. I know you will! There is a schedule on page 20 which you can use to start your planning. This should be the last of the unconventional meetings. We missed the report of the Nominating Committee in the Spring, so there will not be elections at this fall meeting, but the plan is to be back on track for 2022.

“Welcome Back!” – DOLPH SANTORINE, GMCMI PRESIDENT

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.

GMC’ers have been traveling with a vengeance this summer. Part of it is just making up for last year. I do not think it is a conscious thing, but it is so great to be out and about and enjoying all that travel has to offer.

One of my inspirations for writing this column is to look back over the last few issues of GMC VintageRVing. The process for this column is no exception. But I did notice an interesting trend.

Something incredible occurred during the pandemic. The magazine remained vibrant, fresh, and forward looking. New writers appeared with new articles and ideas. It is great to have them and their fresh take and writing on the GMC Lifestyle. It is truly additive having input from people you have followed for years. Now, new names you did not know before, with a different take on the challenges we face with our vintage machines. Bravo! Thank you for taking the time, writing the articles, and sharing your knowledge. It is part of what this Community is all about. In this issue, there are stories about two movie famous GMC Motorhomes, interesting tech articles, and member profiles on a couple well known in the community and a story on a couple I hope we will get to know (see page 14). Welcome Back! Safe travels, and I hope to see you in Chippewa Falls, Wisconsin.

GMCMI Status Membership stands at 934. Thank you to those who renewed their 2021 GMCMI membership. Refer a new member today!

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magazine

CONTENTS WINTER 2020

GMCMI . . . A New Era Two Movie Stars

CONTENTS SUMMER 2021

DEPARTMENTS 2 President’s Corner 10 FMCA Report 11 GMCMH Vendor Profile 12 GMC Motorhome History 13 Technical Corner 4 | 25 YEARS AGO...”TWISTER” 22 GMCMH Suppliers List 24 Classified Ads

26 Regional GMCMH Activities

BEWARE OF CONTENTS SCAMS

Reminiscing The Past, Living the Present, and GMCMI . . . A New Era WELCOME BACK Looking Forward to the Future. CONVENTION GMC MOTORHOMES INTERNATIONAL

DEPARTMENTS

September 24-30, 2021 Chippewa Falls, Wisconsin

2 President’s Corner SEPTEMBER 24-30, 2021

CHIPPEWA FALLS, WISCONSIN

10 FMCA Report

11 GMCMH Vendor Profile

The 13 EM-50 Tribute Project Technical Corner 12 GMC Motorhome History

Read the flipbook version of the GMC Vintage RVing magazine online at gmcmi.com

WINTER 2020

2021

Join us at facebook.com/ GMCMI

8 | 40 YEARS AGO...”STRIPES”

27 GMCMH Events Calendar

Keep informed about GMCMI Events and Members.

BEWARE OF SCAMS

DEPARTMENTS

ON THE COVER Pictured along the banks of Lake Pepin on the Minnesota 2 President’s Corner sideList looking at Wisconsin is a 1976 Palm Beach owned by Tim and Niki 22 GMCMH Suppliers Letters to the Editor Anderson of Hugo, Minnesota. 12 This coach features a rear bed, wet bath, side 24 Classified Ads kitchen with oak countertop along with bunks above the sofa. The coach is 13 GMC Motorhome History mostly original interior with the original paint job on the outside plus Alcoa 26 Regional GMCMH Activities 1 4 Carefree Generally Speaking wheels, recently rebuilt 455 engine, awning, Sully style air bags, 27 GMCMH Events Calendar and air horn. They purchased it 15 in 2013 with ~40,000 miles Profile on the odometer GMCMH Member from friends of the original owners in Kansas. They plan on installing fuel 22 Technical Corner injection this Spring in preparation for a trip from Minnesota to California. When not on vacation, almost every weekend from spring 29 other GMCMH Suppliers Listthru fall they travel to campgrounds, car shows, parades, pumpkin patch, tailgating at the 31 Classified Ads racetrack, GMC rallies, and all sorts of other activities. They proudly show 33 GMC Motorhome Questions their coach at the car shows. Pictured are Cooper (9), LoganTrivia (7), Nash (5), 6 | PART 2: ARE WE THERE YET? and Remington aka Remi the golden doodle (3 months). 34 Regional GMCMH Activities 9 | GMCMH MEMBER PROFILE 35 GMCMH Events Calendar

11 | EM-50 PRESIDENT’S CHALLENGE

WINTER 2020

SUMMER 2021

GMC MOTORHOMES

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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25 YEARS AGO THE MOVIE...

This GMC is Sure to Turn Some Heads! Movie makers use iconic vehicles to set the audience up for the flavor or presence of a film: Herbie in The Love Bug; the Ghost Busters’ ambulance; the Delorian in Back to the Future, and the “Mother ship” for the bad guys in Twister. Such vehicles exist in our minds imprinting them forever. In the hit film Twister (1996), a GMC Motorhome appears painted black with chrome side moldings and shining aluminum rims. The coach was the king of cool and a badass, too. You will remember this GMC would later run Bill and Helen off the road, made them lose a wheel, and wreck that red Dodge truck with “Dorothy” in the back. It had all sorts of hi-tech- looking antennas and dishes on the roof, and the interior was fitted with a command center complete with a telescoping mast antenna. Also, a rear lift door and even a driver’s door filled its scenes with hi-end weather tracking technology only a corporatesponsored villain could afford.

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This “Twister GMC” exuded hi-tech science wizardry as a centerpiece for the Severe Weather Research, a division of Oklahoma Polytechnic University. Well, you saw the movie and so did everybody else. With half a billion in ticket sales (in 1996!) worldwide – that’s a lot of eyes admiring our favorite RV! No wonder some GMCs have been restored and sent across the Atlantic! This “barn find” was nowhere near a barn but was in a warehouse for the Twister “RIDE IT OUT” experience at Universal Studios in Florida. Because it was too big to fit the set, it had been stuffed back in the corner since 1995 waiting to once again be utilized. But, it WAS there, containing all of its props and pieces, the parts unceremoniously deposited inside the coach at the end of filming. The rear hatch door was snapped in half and stashed inside the carcass. The coach was found like many other vehicles long forgotten having survived an apocalypse much like a twister!

More About the Twister GMC with Jim Bounds BY JANET FREY | GMC VINTAGE RVING MAGAZINE EDITOR

Hey, but it’s mostly all there! Just like other neglected GMC coaches, this, too, can be brought back to its past glory. The coach started life as a 1977 GMC Palm Beach and was named “Jonas’s Lab” by the art department/production team. Usually, they make at least two of every movie car to not slow down a hundred million dollars worth of production. But in this case, it appears it was so labor-intensive to customize and create that there was only one. This actual screenused GMC was just minutes away from the crusher which is the fate of most movie props. Unfortunately, some of the other twister props that had survived for 25 years were flattened and recycled. But thankfully our GMC was spared! The GMC Motorhome body shape has withstood the test of time as well as consumer appeal. These classics will carry on because they HAVE made a mark for high quality, being state of the art, and having ageless

style. What is the next movie that will feature the GMC Motorhome? I know of one in production as we speak and I am sure more will follow. For now, maybe a bingewatch is in order for films featuring GMCs like Stripes, Anchorman II, and The Walking Dead. Now, before you watch the movie again and get inspired to become a severe weather expert or storm chaser, you should know that there is no Oklahoma Polytechnic University. You can check with the National Severe Storms Laboratory (NSSL) in Norman, Oklahoma for the required training and certification process. The NSSL was the scientific advisor for the filming of Twister.

SUMMER 2021

I contacted Jim to get his input on the “Twister” GMC and his experience in updating and renovating the GMC Motorhomes. I asked if he enjoyed doing projects such as the EM-50 Tribute Project and the future Twister project. He explained that if he didn’t enjoy the work, he wouldn’t be doing it! It is more of a movement than a money-making business. His entire organization has the mindset that it is a labor of love, so much so that four employees live in their GMCs. While he is looking to retire after 30 years, he also knows that there is a need for his type of business. After all, the GMCs are all almost 45-years-old and the original cabinets, pipes, engines, etc. are falling apart! But the GMC Motorhome is more popular than ever. His adventures with the EM50 Tribute Project are described in the article by Ross Viguet. But the adventure with the Twister GMC has not yet begun. The one and only Twister GMC is at Cooperative Motor Works, awaiting the next phase in its life. The modifications made for the movie were only skin deep, so it is in need of serious restoration. Jim said the owner has not yet begun the process, but much work will be needed to install some real cabinets, restore the driver’s side door that was installed for the movie, and look into a permanent way to install the antennas and dishes that were featured in the movie. By the way, the hardware is still there, stored in the motorhome. While Jim is looking forward to the project, he points out that the future for the GMC Motorhome is bright. He has the body molds for future production and feels that a new GMC Motorhome with modern features will one day be available.

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Taking Possession of the 1977 Eleganza II In December 2016, with a quick handshake and well wishes, I took delivery of the coach and several boxes of printed materials supplied by the previous owner, and my adventure began. It was truly amazing to climb into the driver’s seat of that old coach, put it in drive, hear the buzzer of the air ride reminder, and view the world from that panoramic vista. It had been around 35 years since I drove a GMC Motorhome, but it all came back in a flash. The motorhome actually drove pretty well. We made it to Cooperative Motor Works (The Coop) without issue, despite the odds.

The EM-50 Tribute Project PART 2: ARE WE THERE YET?

BY ROSS VIGUET | LEWISVILLE, TEXAS | 1977 ELEGANZA II

If you read the first installment of the tale (featured in the 2021 summer issue of GMC Vintage Rving magazine) of my adventure leading up to the EM-50 Tribute Back on The Road Project, you saw that I did not set out with the crazy idea to create a tribute vehicle from the 1981 movie Stripes. Instead, like many, I had the perfectly rational (okay, [ [ [ marginally rational) desire to buy a 40-year-old motorhome to drive across the country and enjoy the sights through the panoramic view that the GMC Motorhome offers. GMC MOTORHOMES

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Martini Anyone?

Spring 2021 | Issue 155

INTERNATIONAL

use of GMC Motorhome s

The EM-50 Tribute Project

[

Technical Corner

The first installment of my tale in the adventure that evolved, or possibly devolved, into the EM-50 Tribute Project ended with my picking up my new-to-me 1977 Eleganza II that I purchased from a classic car dealer in Lakeland, Florida sight unseen. It is not quite as foolish as it seems. I had been searching for a 1977 model with the 455 engine and the 26-3 floor plan that was in good, mostly original, condition. The dealer did a full walk-around video, including them driving the coach. I was assured all was in good order. I found that Cooperative Motor Works (The Co-op) in Orlando works on these old beasts. I arranged to fly to Orlando, pick up the motorhome, and drive directly to The Co-op. What could possibly go wrong? As it turns out, nothing that a lot of time and money cannot fix.

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Jim met us as we drove up to his place and gave the coach a quick look. His first impression was that it was a nice survivor and would be a great base for us to build on. I explained that I wanted a thorough mechanical review and to repair all that needed to be done. I would use it for a year or so and then do any further work. I had a budget in mind for the mechanical work, knowing that it would need things like the brakes, hoses, belts, tires, fluids changed, windows resealed, etc. Jim started mentioning items such as blocking off the crossovers and replacing the timing chain. I was beginning to get the sense this was not going to go exactly as I had planned. Evaluation of Our Coach After having spent an hour and a half with my new-to-me motorhome, I left it with Jim to do a mechanical evaluation and to provide an estimate for the repairs. About a week later, Jim and I went over the report and determined which items to take care of, which was essentially all of it. It included things like a new quadra bag system, dropping and cleaning the fuel tanks, and new aluminum wheels. The transmission or engine would need to come out to change the engine oil pan gasket. We also splurged on a few living area items. The work was agreed upon, the budget approved, and the work began.

The EM-50 Tribute’s rebuilt engine and transmission with new serpentine belt and fuel injection.

Road Rangers that patrols the Turnpike stopped and retrieved the wheel assembly and a Florida Highway Patrol officer also checked on us. The Landoll rig finally arrived mid-afternoon and, with some challenges due to the driver’s side rear sitting so low, the two tow truck operators got the motorhome loaded onto the trailer. The ride back to Orlando in the motorhome on the back of the Landoll trailer was interesting. Back at The Coop

The only GMC at the Jimmy Buffet concert was quite a hit, with people asking questions and taking photos.

There was a Jimmy Buffet concert coming to the Dallas area (near our primary home) in May of 2017. The timeline for the repairs seemed doable, so we reserved a spot in the camping area for the concert. The plan was for The Coop to complete the work in the April time frame, and for us to use the coach once or twice based out of Orlando as shakedown cruises before driving the coach to Dallas. We had never been to the Florida Keys, so we made a reservation at Boyd’s Campground in Key West for Easter weekend in mid-April 2017 for our first shakedown cruise.

noise?” She pointed out the front window past me and said “your wheel is passing us!” I looked to the left and saw a new aluminum wheel and tire traveling down the Turnpike with flames shooting out of the hub. I pulled over to the right shoulder. The wheel and tire came to rest against the guardrail in the median a little further down the Turnpike. It is worth noting that, although there was a sound and slight shimmy of the rear end, I did not have any handling issues in bringing the coach to a safe stop on the shoulder from traveling at highway speed.

In the meantime, the work on the motorhome progressed, and so did the budget. I decided to have the final drive changed out for one with limited slip capability and 3.70 gears. The engine was pulled and new headers were added to the list. As Jim says, “it is not what to do, but where to stop”.

My AAA with RV coverage was done too recently for the towing coverage to be available yet. Never fear, I had the famous (or infamous) quadra bag system that can be driven with five wheels! But I quickly discovered that the original GMC onboard air compressor could not provide enough pressure to lift the driver’s side on one airbag. I had packed a portable air compressor, but neither would produce much more than 100 PSI, so I was immobile on the side of the Turnpike.

With my additions and the surprises that were discovered, it became a real scramble to try and get the coach ready for the Key West trip in mid-April. But The Coop hustled and on Good Friday, we hit the road from Orlando to Key West. Our First Trip The trip to Key West started well enough. The motorhome drove so well that I kept finding myself exceeding 70 mph without intending to do so. But, 73 miles down the Florida Turnpike from Orlando, I turned to Lisa and asked “what was that

A quick call to Jim and I had the name of a towing service with a Landoll trailer. They could come and get us, but it would be three or so hours. Making use of the time, Lisa and I started testing the systems. The 6 KW Onan fired right up, the original roof ACs blew very cold air, the refrigerator was keeping the beer ice cold, and the new microwave worked nicely for microwave popcorn. One of the

SUMMER 2021

The crew at The Coop greeted us with profound apologies when we returned on the back of the tow truck. We worked out a plan for getting things put back together, including servicing all of the rear wheel bearings, over the next week so that we could attempt the trip again the following weekend. The following Friday, we made an uneventful trip to Key West. The motorhome drove well and could pass anything except a gas station. In light of recent events, Jim had counseled me to stop at least every 200-250 miles for fuel and to feel each wheel for excessive heat indicative of wheel bearing failure. We made it to Boyd’s Campground and had a waterfront space due to the GMC’s smaller size. After a long weekend in Key West, we headed back to Orlando with the only incident of note being the torrential rain in Miami revealing that the range hood vent leaked. The motorhome and its systems performed so well that it was decided that the punch list could be attended to in the following week and the coach would be ready to go to Dallas the following weekend. It looked like all was going well for the Jimmy Buffet concert in May. Off to the Jimmy Buffet Concert We picked up our motorhome from The Coop in late April 2017 for the drive to Dallas. The first day out of Orlando was uneventful. As now seemed usual, we received lots of attention at our stops, and even some honks and waves when out on continued on next page

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Did YOU Know... that the movie Stripes is celebrating its 40th Anniversary this year! BY JANET FREY | GMC VINTAGE RVING MAGAZINE EDITOR

As part of the celebration, the movie is being rereleased to theaters. It features Bill Murray and director Ivan Reitman sitting down 40 years after the movie’s release to give fans an inside look at their time filming Stripes. This screening might be the only chance for fans to see this particular footage. The logline for Stripes reads: “Where else, besides the army, can military misfits John and Russell help save the world for democracy... and meet girls? They find basic training a snap, are arrested twice, have endless run-ins with drill sergeant Hulka (Warren Oates). They even manage to steal a top-secret government vehicle, which we GMCers know as a GMC Motorhome. Bill Murray and Harold Ramis are full of antics showing off their comedic genius in this comedyadventure classic. Says Fathom Events Vice President of Studio Relations Tom Lucas, “(the movie) is full of expertly crafted irreverent wit, sardonic humor, and retro-scripted ad-lib, and audiences are in for a night of laughs while revisiting one of the 80s most hilarious films.”

“Razzle Dazzle” routine from the movie Stripes.

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the road. We stopped every 200-250 miles for fuel and to feel the wheels for excess heat. Later that day, we finally found a place to dry camp at the Atchafalaya National Heritage Area in Louisiana around midnight. I was tired, so I failed to feel the wheels when we stopped. The next morning we found a fuel stop a few miles away, topped off, felt the wheels for excess heat (which, of course, they had not traveled far enough to heat up – you see where this is going, right?) and were off. We made it to the Shreveport area (about 230 miles from our overnight stop) and were looking for a convenient fuel station. As we were driving on the fly-over bridge at a highway interchange, I turned to Lisa and asked “what was that noise?” She pointed out the front window to her right and said “it happened again!” I looked to the right and saw a new aluminum wheel and tire traveling down the embankment, coming to rest against a fence on the far side of the access road. Once again, I had no issues bringing the coach to a safe stop on the shoulder from traveling at highway speed. I thought that I was in luck this time! That AAA towing insurance with RV coverage that I signed up for was now active, I was approximately 200 miles from home, and the AAA policy provided for one 200 mile tow per year. But I was informed that AAA would not tow the motorhome because I was in Louisiana and my coverage was in Texas. Be forewarned that AAA coverage differs from state to state and you may need to call your home state AAA office to resolve certain situations. Never fear, I had the quadra bag system that can be driven with five wheels and I had a portable compressor that would produce 150 psi. I figured out that you can open the valve for the airbag on the missing wheel, lift the bogie arm to compress the air out of that airbag, and shut the valve to hold that bogie arm up off of the road. Using my portable air compressor, I had to inflate the airbag for the remaining wheel to about 140 psi to bring the rear passenger side of the coach to a near-normal height for driving. With this setup, we were able to drive the coach off of the highway interchange and to a safe place. I quickly discovered, however, that I did not want to travel far or fast with that setup. It was mid-afternoon on Sunday and no service facilities for the motorhome were open. So we limped to a nearby hotel. The next morning, I called Jim to see if he would be willing to talk a shop through the needed repairs. However, Jim told me to find a safe place to park the coach for a few days and that two of his crew would come, repair the motorhome, and drive it to my home in Dallas. I found a very accommodating self-storage facility to leave the motorhome and finished the drive to Dallas in a rental car. Success! True to Jim’s word, about a week later, and in time for the Jimmy Buffet concert, my motorhome with all six wheels firmly attached arrived at my house. As a result of my experience, The Coop will now only use Timken bearings. We drove to the Jimmy Buffet concert and received several thumbs-up from passers-by. People started coming over declaring how cool it was, asking if it was the EM-50 from Stripes, and taking selfies in front of it. I could tell that owning a GMC Motorhome was going to be fun and that all that we had experienced was worth it.

We used the motorhome for a year and towed our Jeep Wrangler without issue. The GMC was perfect for us, but we wanted some refreshing. The decision was made to contact Jim at The Coop to get on the schedule for freshening up the paint, drivetrain, and interior. The initial plan was to reupholster the furnishings, replace the flooring, rebuild the engine and transmission, and repaint the exterior in the original Eleganza II paint scheme. He would let me know when he had an opening and I could bring it down from Dallas to have the work done. More Work to Be Done I received an email from Jim with an opening in their schedule, but as it turned out, the coach did not enter the paint booth for some time, which gave me time to rethink some of my plans. I was thinking about the work to be done, and thought if I was going to spend all that money for paint, why not do something a little more unusual than the original paint scheme? I had always loved the movie Stripes, having seen it in theaters when it originally came out. I Googled some pictures of the EM-50 and showed them to Lisa and she was on board with the change of plans. The EM-50 Tribute Project was officially born. Lisa and I met with the painter at The Coop and pulled up photos of the original EM-50 off of the internet for comparison to color chips in his catalog. It turns out that there are five separate colors and the paint was laid down with a base then four coats of high solids clearcoat, wet sanded to 3,000 grit. The accessories, such as the air conditioner shrouds and storage pod, were color-matched as well. There was also considerable work preparing the coach for paint, including pulling in the “chipmunk cheeks” on the front cap, repairing various holes, and deleting the range hood exterior vent. I decided that if we were going this far with the paint, we may as well go all-in on the rest of the refresh. The engine was already scheduled for a rebuild with Jim’s Kryptonite cam and roller rockers. Although the engine with 70,000 original miles had been running well, it was discovered that the thrust bearing had damaged the crankshaft, so a new billet crankshaft was installed. A Holley Sniper fuel injection system with HyperSpark ignition, a FiTech ForceFuel surge tank system, a CVF Racing serpentine belt system, and a 140-amp alternator were added. The radiator and mechanical fan were replaced with a three-core aluminum radiator using a dual electric fan and shroud assembly used in a GMC Yukon, controlled by the Holley Sniper system. The factory cab air conditioner was replaced with a

A GMCMI Member Profile BY JANET FREY | GMC VINTAGE RVING MAGAZINE EDITOR

And who are GMCMI members ROSS & LISA VIGUET? For a more complete picture of our heroes, Ross and Lisa, I spoke to Ross to get a little more background. Originally from Arkansas, Ross said he met his future wife when his best friend asked him to go on a double date. His friend, who did not have a car, asked Ross to go with his girlfriend’s sister. It must have been a very successful date – they both married their girls and are now brothers-in-law!

Ross and Lisa Viguet

Ross completed engineering school, started a computer support business, and then went to law school. Lisa worked full time, but eventually was able to focus on raising their two daughters. He said she did a great job with the daughters, but was less successful with their pets! Ramses the Great

Also, they enjoyed motorhoming as a family, having great memories of their many travels to fun locations. Ross still is a lawyer, able to work remotely while in Florida. And the daughters have been able to spend time in Orlando for fun family time. Ross is First photo of Ross and the 1977 Eleganza II hoping to have his GMC on GMC Motorhome. the road in time to enjoy his September birthday in Fort Wilderness at Disney World.

Ross, Lisa, and Ramses love to go boating.

continued on next page

SUMMER 2021

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The EM-50 Tribute Project

BEFORE

new high volume, commercial vehicle system that includes electronic servos and a Sanden rotary compressor while keeping the factory defrost ducts. The transmission was rebuilt by Monster Transmission & Performance, using their proprietary lowstall torque converter with Allison-style needle bearings, braised fins, and balloon plates. The firewall and all of the surfaces in the engine compartment were covered in a heat reflective sound-deadening material to help with the interior cab temperature and sound level. The driver’s compartment received several upgrades including a “Mac-daddy” dash (the NGMC-2010 Panel System from Custom Instrument Panels). The old AGC glass style fuse block was removed and replaced with a new ATC blade style

AFTER

a new source has not yet been found). The flooring in the cab area was replaced with carpet having a sound suppression mat underlayment in a further effort to keep the engine noise down. The furnishings were kept in their original configuration since we found

The Mac dash is fitted, but several accessories remain to be installed.

fuse block. The front cab rework also included new front windshields with ceramic tint to cut the heat transfer by 80%. The original cab side windows were replaced with the last set of the full sliding windows that The Coop had (the manufacturer stopped making them and

The EM-50 Tribute out of its long stay in the paint booth and receiving its rebuilt engine and transmission.

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The reupholstered interior sports Sunbrella fabric in colors and plaid with a nod to the 70s.

The EM-50 Tribute still sporting the “Caution: Parts May Fall Off” warning label from its Eleganza II days.

that configuration to work very well for us. The upholstery in the interior was upgraded to Sunbrella fabric in green and tan to tie into the exterior colors of the EM-50. In addition to solid colors for the cockpit seats and dinette, we chose a green and tan plaid pattern for the front davo that is a nod to the 70s. The flooring in the living area was replaced with vinyl plank flooring, again for durability.

President’s Challenge SHARE YOUR EM-50!

BY DOLPH SANTORINE | GMCMI PRESIDENT

The green and plaid upholstery carries over to the rear salon.

The EM-50 Tow Vehicle The EM-50 Tribute Project has come a long way, but there remains much to be done. As I write this, we are now well past the third year of the rehab work. The plan all along has been to keep the motorhome in Orlando for six months to a year after the project is complete to allow us to stage some trips out of Orlando. I needed a towed vehicle and my train of thought quickly proceeded to “you cannot tow just any old Jeep behind the EM-50.” So I contacted the Jurassic Park Motor Pool, a group of Jurassic Park movie vehicle enthusiasts, and had a mostly screen accurate Jurassic Park Jeep built. Similar to driving a GMC Motorhome, you cannot go unnoticed when driving a Jurassic Park Jeep. It should be Ross and JP29 headed to work a VIP event at Universal interesting when I get the Studios Orlando. two vehicles together! Project Finally Wound Up! Several significant projects remain before the EM-50 Tribute Project is complete. We are keeping the original two fuel tanks which are out of the coach and remain to have the Holly HydraMats installed. A dual fuel pump/fuel filter system with a six-port fuel selector solenoid is to be made up and mounted on a custom hinged plate providing access for service. The Holly fuel injection and electronic spark control system remain to be tuned. An automatic fire suppression system, using aircraft-style foam in the engine and generator compartments and clean agent gas in the refrigerator compartment, also remains to be installed. Also, all the living compartment windows are to receive new cellular blinds and custom surrounds. We are not there yet, but the crew seems to be making good progress now that things are getting back to normal after the pandemic. In the future, if you happen to see a GMC Motorhome painted to look like the EM-50 towing a Jurassic Park Jeep, there is a good chance it is me and the project finally wound up! Stop and say “hi,” as I am sure we will have more stories to tell since the adventure is only just beginning. “Follow me on Instagram @JurassicStripes if you want to follow the adventure.”

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 October 1, 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 fall issue of GMC Vintage RVing magazine. Enter today!

SUMMER 2021

GMC MOTORHOMES INTERNATIONAL

SUBMIT YOUR LETTERS TO ADMIN@GMCMI.COM

Techn ical Corn er

MAINTENANCE , RENOVATIONS, AND MORE

“The Black List” The GMC Assist List

For the GMC TZE Motorhome Community The “BLACK LIST” originated on the GMCnet email list back at the end of 1998. It’s not a naughty list but is named for it’s originator, Roger BLACK. Roger continued to maintain the list for several years, then Billy Massey volunterred to maintain and update it till present.

Brass Proportioning Valves

David Lenzi | 1977 Royale

| Davison, Michigan | Innovative

If you are the owner of a 1973-78 GMC motorhome, have removed the original cast iron combination valve, and installed a new brass proportioning valve on your coach, please read the following test results. I was prompted to start this testing based upon GMC owners contacting me for help with their braking performance. In each case, their poor braking was traced to installing one of the many brass proportional valves available today.

Products and Engineering

LLC

PSI to all wheels, (depending upon your size, strength, and how hard you pull on the steering wheel) and were still not great. Now consider installing a proportioning valve that takes away one- third of the pressure to your rear brakes, when you want it most, under hard braking. Even more disturbing is that for years, most everyone that upgraded their brakes to rear discs, were told that they must replace the old combination valve with one of the new brass proportioning valves. Different suppliers called their proportioning valves either PV4 or Disc/ Disc proportioning valves. I am certain all of them, restricted the pressure to the rear brakes. I contacted two suppliers of these brass proportioning valves, and tried to explain that a GMC motor home was not the same as a small passenger car or light truck in any way. i.e., Front to rear vehicle weight, weight transfer during braking, or rear suspension. All I succeeded in doing was being told that they were the experts, and as much as said I knew nothing about brakes.

I acquired three different brands of brass valves, and placed them on the test stand that many of you have seen at my GMCMI tech sessions. As I expected, all three valves limited the pressure to the rear brakes to 800 PSI. Two of these valve suppliers stated in their advertisement that their valve was a direct replacement for our coaches. This is absolutely not true. Our original combination valve did not limit pressure, other than the “hold off” feature. This feature held off pressure to the front calipers until the springs on our rear drum brakes were extended slightly. At approximately 130 PSI, A valve shifted, and equal pressure was sent to At this point, I must admit all brakes. that with some braking systems, and possibly As most owners agree, our a 23 foot GMC, it OEM brakes were might be necessary to place not the best, and requiring adjustable pressure extremely defensive reducing valves on only the rear/rear driving to feel comfortable. (trailing Consider that our arm) brakes. But never on OEM brakes were developing the leading rear wheel upward of 1200 brakes.

To continue with my quest for differences between our cast iron combination valve and the brass proportioning valves, I machined sections out of the valve bodies. This allowed me to inspect the interior valve action. The disc/drum (PV2) valves that I sectioned, had a pressure hold off function very similar to our old Combination valve. It is housed in the front of the brass body, and has a pin protruding through a rubber seal, or is sealed by a snap-on cover. As the brake pedal is depressed, fluid is sent from the master cylinder to both of the inlet ports of the proportioning valve. At a very low pressure, the pin extends approximately .015 of an inch, closing a valve that stops fluid from traveling to the front wheel brakes. As the brake pedal is further depressed, pressure increases in both of the lines coming from the master cylinder. It sends fluid pressure to the rear drum brakes, but holds off sending pressure to the front disc brake calipers until approximately 130 PSI is reached. At this time, a second spring compresses, a poppet valve opens, the pin extends an additional .040 of an inch, and pressure is directed to the front brakes identical to the rear This pressure will steadily increase pressure. equally to both front/rear brakes with additional brake pedal force. The pin remains extended until the braking cycle is complete and the brake

This “GMC Assistance List” is of GMC Motorhome owners/supporters who are making themselves available for what ever 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. Sorry no help for those in an SOB (Some Other Brand). Just a GMC Motorhome.

I Now Have Great Brakes

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 current list, see www.gmcblacklist.com.

It has helped innumerable GMCers in need during their travels as well as helped prospective GMCers find their dream coach. There is also a handy list of recommended GMC Service & Repair Suppliers at the end.

Please include other pertinent information such as facilities, tools, knowledge, coffee, tea, beer supply ;-). ... Seriously, we just want to have someone with local information to avoid pitfalls to fellow travelers who have problems.

GMC Motorhomes International is pleased to assist Billy Massey in the production, printing, and first mailing of the “Black List” for the GMC Motorhome Community to enjoy. www.gmcmi.com

GMC VINTAGE RVING MAGAZINE | GMCMI.COM

Success!

We would like to have all GMCers on the list but you may use it either way.

Bill and Midge Kittredge | 1978 Royale | Yorba Linda, California

Letters to the Editor

“The Black List” Usage Disclaimer: By opening this publication, you hereby accept and agree: This GMC Assist List shall be used for individual and personal reference purposes only. This GMC Assist List and the contents is a proprietary product of www.bdub.net and provided for the GMC TZE Motorhome Community. The contents of this List may not, in whole or in part, be reproduced; copied; disseminated; entered into a computer database; or otherwise utilized, in any form or manner or by any means, except for the user’s individual and personal reference.

Eelko Byker | 1976 Modified Eleganza II | Port Coborne, Ontario, Canada

Thank You...

Worth the Price of Admission!

Thank you, Dave Lenzi for fixing my brakes. I know you have not been near my coach but your article in the Winter 2021 GMC Vintage RVing magazine was the answer.

Matt Colie | 1973 Glacier | Belleville, Michigan

Larry Weidner | 1978 Royale | Menomonie, Wisconsin

Two years ago I did a major brake rebuild, four new rear wheel cylinders, rear shoes, stainless steel flex lines, new brass combination valve, new master cyclinder, new sensitized booster, and new yellow pads (po had instaled 80 mm calipers). I spent hours bleeding, trying to get good brakes. Spent time on the phone with Jim Kanomata but I could not get the rear wheels to lock up. The next winter I converted to a home built hydroboost (a big improvement) but still no rear lock up. Today I modified the new brass combination valve as per Dave’s instructions, went for a quick road test and I can finally lock the rear wheels.

GMCMI Spring Package

Got these in the mail last week as the cost of admission to our international organization...GMCMI. • GMC Motorhome Parts Exchange • Publication Article Index • Membership Roster • “The Black List” (GMC Assist List) • Two Pre-Travel Checklists • GMC Vintage RVing magazine The GMC Vintage RVing magazine is published 4 times per year. An excellent publication put together by our Executive Director Kim Weeks. All of this for $40/year. Worth the price of admission!

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. 12

Printed Black List! We received the spring GMCMI package: A - Thank you B - It has a printed copy of the Black List in it. What a great Idea!! I always have to remember to print a copy at the beginning of the travel season. I always download it to the traveling computer, but I also print one because we have lost the traveling computer three different times. Looking forward to Chippewa Falls! Editor’s Note: GMCMI is pleased to assist Billy Massey in the production, printing, and first mailing of the “Black List” for the GMC Motorhome Community to enjoy.

Thanks, Dave

A Big Thank You! Kim Weeks | 1973 Custom Painted Desert | Indianola, Iowa I would like to personally thank the anonymous GMCMI member that mailed me a copy of the February 1973 House & Garden magazine featuring as titled: “Great American Tradition, The Great New Getaway-Mobile”. This publication will be added to the GMC Motorhome Collection housed in Indianola, Iowa. Keith and I invite you to stop and see the Collection and stay over night. We have a full hook-up available.

GMC VINTAGE RVING MAGAZINE | WWW.GMCMI.COM

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.

New Gadabout Items Discovered!

The Coca Cola GadAbout GMC Motorhome Toys & Items Many of us are aware ofhasGMC the GMC The GMC Motorhome had abuilding large variety of toysMotorhome and items that were model named 1977/78. Imanufacture. hope to provide available during“GadAbout” the period ofinmotorhome Yousome can see a few interesting are not knownatabout examples thatdetails I hadthat collected in well the photo right. these GoingGMC from smallest toMotorhomes. largest they are, HotWheels Palm Beach (orange), Hess Training Van, GMC fiberglass 18” model (orange), Barbie GMC Motorhome model In the early years of my interest in GMC Motorhomes (1980s) I (that I painted like my Palm Beach) and finally the full-sized “real” had supposed the GadAbout to be one of many TransModes where GMC Motorhome, the greatest toy of all! GMC built the shell and another company completed the interior and one manymodel upfitting details. was wrong! the built TZE #s The I want to Idiscuss hereCheck is theout GMC and you will see the GadAbout falls in the motorhome definition. fiberglass model. Why did GMC build it, how many were GMCwhat Motorhomes are TZE1xx... built, happened to them? while TransModes are TZE3xx.... There is more. While I have no exact documentation, there is much evidence that indicates following This 1/16 scale model wasthe initially builtistotrue. determine the drag coefficient

black Formica as was a rear table with a checkerboard pattern, the front panel of the refrigerator resembled a Coke vending machine. There was also an entry rug that noted “COKE adds life to... MOVIN’ ON”, as well as a framed mirrored scene of a GadAbout motoring down the highway. There is more! Some of these are now quite rare since they were not affixed solidly to the coach and over the years disappeared: bath towels in Coke red, a great Coke belt buckle, a key fob, a CB radio, and Coke trivets for cans or bottles. I may have missed something but that is an impressive list. Like they say... Things go better with Coke!

New Gadabout Items Discovered!

Pictured at right is a previous poster that These five GMC Motorhomes from the Bill Bryant GMC we discovered for the Collection give you an idea of their relative sizes. Motorhome Gadabout Travelstakes but recently we have discovered another version of the poster. It is 18” x 24”. We had previously heard of a Gadabout Atlas but had never seen one. But one has been discovered. It measures 4” announced on January 3, 1978. None of the five Gadabout winners x 6 1/4” with While the original had previously owned a motorhome. an embossed test model was used Gadabout The in GadAbouts came 1971/1972 the with a number of on the cover. verymold unique Cola extras. A great forCoca that model Pictured left: John Locklin, GMC Engineer holding the The contents of the US states exterior paint put scheme was likely awayand a spare tire above GMC Motorhome at include: the 1996maps GMCMI Spring Canadian Providences; CBabove Radio Guide cover replicating bottle cap. Inside the and forgotten.a By Convention inand Titusville, Florida. Note in the photo that the largecompleted side window shows as CB a three-section with rules, jargon, andwindow. the areathe above glove boxaround, had a metallic timethe 1974 rolled a couple of the That was the design at the time these Phonetic Alphabet; Areamodels Code were Map;built and a plaque “ COKE addswere life to cruisin...in original engineers about to retireaand I when they discovered it could not be sealed they changed Trip Expense Record. GADABOUT”, the had kitchen counter was make suspect someone the idea it would to the two-piece production design. a great retirement gift from GM. I have been told by one of those engineers that he thought Alex Birch, GM Foreman about the Coca about Read ten ofmore the models weretwo built. WeCola GMC Motorhomes in the Winter Experimental Shop issue of GMC Vintage www.gmcmi.com/gmc-vintage-rving currently know where six ofRVing thematare. (CD) the aGMC Motorhome was tested at the Guggenheim Therefor were total of 55 Cokes design built byand GMC. I believe they all wind tunnel in California. While GM also had a wind tunnel it was said to were built like what I call the “standard” Coke, Coke red interior, beblack not as accurate, so time waswhite obtained at the Guggenheim tunnel Formica counter top, exterior with a Coke redwind stripe, and tests were run. As I noted in my GMC history etc. From this group of 55, 9 or 10 were sent to an upfitter 10 miles article, “The Geneva, GMC Motorhome, from Lake Wisconsin, from whereStart theytowere “customized” into Finish...” (read at gmcmi.com/basic-history), the fits this description GadAbouts. LRP (Leisure Recreation Products) results were great – they were slightly better than theCoke bottlers and was upfitting GMC Transmodes at the time. early 1970s Corvette of the time. It should be noted were to pick up their finished GadAbouts at the Playboy Club in that typically inWisconsin, studies like June this, those usualThe external Lake Geneva, 22, 1978. contestants who won protrusions like mirrors, roof air conditioners, vents, the five GadAbouts as prizes and the 25 second prizes that received windshield not included. a two-weekwipers, use ofawnings, a GMC etc. withare $3,000 in spending money were

Have a historical question about the GMC Motorhome? Submit it to gmc.bill@gmail.com 12

GMC VINTAGE RVING MAGAZINE | GMCMI.COM

SUMMER 2021

GMC MOTORHOMES INTERNATIONAL

Generally Speaking

QUESTIONS, TIPS, INNOVATIONS, STORIES, AND MORE

A Black List Call & a New Member! Dolph Santorine | 77 Palm Beach | Wheeling, West Virginia

There is always something great about a new member, and it is even better when the new member has youth on his side. That’s Elijah Willems and his girlfriend Aurelie King. They enjoy Bluegrass music and have started using Elijah’s 1975 GMC Motorhome for their travels. Of course, they enjoy the accolades when driving such a classic. Thumbs up from truck drivers, and the admiration of many when they stop for fuel. He purchased the coach fairly recently from a family acquaintance, and he said “I have always admired the GMC Motorhome. It is just so classic”. Elijah and Aurelie has been learning as they travel, and enjoying the coach at the same time. Having worked with the man side by side during a Black List call, Elijah has awesome skills. Elijah is a carpenter and started in the trade early working with his Dad who is a contractor. His approach to repairs is one that even the more seasoned wrenches in the GMC Community would find refreshing. Especially for a 25-year-old. I met Elijah when he broke down just outside of Wheeling, West Virginia. I do not think there is a standard for how “Black List” calls start, but here is one for you (transcribed by Siri on my phone – with corrections). “Hey Dolph, this is Elijah Willems calling. I got your number from the GMC Black List. I see you’re just in Wheeling, West Virginia and I had a um I had a catastrophic wheel bearing failure on I-70 eastbound...” When that voice mail message came in, I was returning from a GMC Great Lakers event in Elkhart, Indiana. We started texting, and I discovered that he had parked the coach in one of the local “Oilfield” RV parks (our area is the center of the shale gas fields). He had reached out to one of our vendors (Jeff at Alex Sirum GMC in Okeechobee, Florida) and had ordered all of the possible parts he would need. I mentioned that I would stop out, take a look and spray some penetrating oil on the bolts and brake lines that we would be working with for the repair.

Motorh

on to have all GMCersway. We would like may use it either the list but you GMCers It has helped innumerable well as their travels as in need during GMCers find their helped prospective dream coach.

GMCers It has helped innumerable well as their travels as in need during GMCers find their helped prospective dream coach. handy list of There is also a & GMC Service recommended at the end. Repair Suppliers

Royale | Yorba Kittredge | 1978

The GMC Assist ome Community

Bill and Midge

”

“The Black List List For the GMC TZE the originated on The “BLACK LIST” back at the end list GMCnet email but a naughty list of 1998. It’s not originator, Roger is named for it’s continued to maintain BLACK. Roger years, then Billy the list for several to maintain and Massey volunterred update it till present.

Linda, California

While there I looked the nicely painted coach over and took a picture of the VIN for the Registry. It has Quad-Bags (but no valve system), Tru-Tracks, 16.5” steel wheels with 15-year-old tires.

or be a member To sign up to current list, to download the acklist.com. List” is of GMC see www.gmcbl This “GMC Assistance orters who Motorhome owners/supp other pertinent available for Please include are making themselves as facilities, they can offer information such coffee, tea, beer what ever assistance on the road while tools, knowledge, we just to other GMCers it is only to answer ;-). ... Seriously, traveling. Whether the auto supply have someone with local tell them where out an want to the phone to avoid pitfalls to to help change information to parts store is or who have driveway, all owners fellow travelers engine in your those no help for problems. Just a are needed. Sorry Other Brand). in an SOB (Some . GMC Motorhome

production, printing,

and

in the assist Billy Massey l is pleased to to enjoy. s Internationa Motorhome Community GMC Motorhome for the GMC www.gmcmi.com the “Black List” first mailing of

and agree: is a hereby accept List and the contents not, publication, you List may By opening this purposes only. This GMC Assist contents of this Usage Disclaimer: reference Community. The or otherwise utilized, “The Black List” for individual and personal TZE Motorhome for the GMC computer database; reference. List shall be used entered into a net and provided This GMC Assist personal disseminated; of www.bdub. individual and for the user’s proprietary productin part, be reproduced; copied; any means, except in whole or manner or by in any form or

The last item was a jaw-dropper. It was going to be an expensive. The last thing I wanted to do was add expense but one of those tires was going to fail. It would make the wheel bearing failure look minor. I explained the situation. Elijah did his research and agreed, and I gave him the numbers of two local tire shops that I trust. When we met to do the repair, I learned that the wheel had departed the coach when the bearing failed. Aurelie was behind the wheel when that happened and did a fine job of controlling the coach. Elijah and I set to work fitting the new backing plate, cleaned up the spindle, and put new bearing “cups and cones” in place. There were a couple of calls to Jeff Sirum in there as well. It was after 4 pm when we finished bleeding the brakes and the tire shop could not see him until the morning. Dinner with incredibly lively conversation. Elijah overnighted in our driveway with 30 amp power and, I of course, left him with some appropriate reading material (GMC Vintage RVing magazine) and he had seven new tires mounted the next morning and was safely on his way. Quite a Black List call. A new friend, another GMC Motorhome story to tell, and a new GMCMI member! But most important is that another generation is enjoying a vintage motorhome and making memories. With more members like Elijah and Aurelie, GMCMI and the motorhomes’ future will be assured.

GMCMI is pleased to have assisted Billy Massey in the production, printing, and first mailing of the “Black List” that was included in the Spring 2021 GMCMI mailling. An electronic version of the “Black List” can be found at www.gmcmi.com/black-list/. Wish to receive a printed version, email kimweeksgmc@gmail.com requesting a copy. You will receive a paypal invoice for $10 (including shipping). Simply pay the invoice and it will be on its way in the mail.

GMC VINTAGE RVING MAGAZINE | WWW.GMCMI.COM

A GMC Motorhome Member Profile BY JANET FREY | GMC VINTAGE RVING MAGAZINE EDITOR

Dave and Mary pictured with their children Robert, David, and Kari.

Many GMC enthusiasts know of the expertise of DAVE LENZI. A skilled hands-on engineer and machinist, Dave studied our GMC Motorhomes and created solutions to brake problems experienced by many GMC owners. He has done numerous seminars and in addition to brakes, he has offered suspension components and engine enhancements. Much of his work has resulted in improvements to the original GMC engineering. And, his wife Mary has also been an avid supporter of the GMC Community. Let’s get to know this couple. Dave offers this story:

Motorhome. They purchased a 1977 Royale in 1999, and started traveling in it. They would travel 10,000 miles a year, until both had serious health issues. Both are well now, and have started traveling again. Dave has developed, built many improved systems for the GMC Community, and at 82 years old, still works seven days a week developing/building parts in his shop. He claims that mental and physical work is what keeps him young.

Dave Lenzi and Mary Van Gilder met in 1956, were married in 1961, have three children, and eight grandsons. Mary and Dave had their three children in the first 2-1/5 years of marriage (good Catholics). For that reason, and because they both agreed that a “stay at home” mother was best for their children, Mary’s first job was raising their children. She did go to work at a local bank when the children were older. She was raised on a lake, and loved to swim, so that was her preferred method of exercise. She swam a mile every day of the week for 10 years. Mary and Dave have always had a love for travel. They camped in 37 states with their three children before they were 17 years of age. During these travels Dave and Mary would see a beautiful GMC fly past them in their 11-1/2 foot slide in truck camper and dream. Dave designed and built his first house before getting married, as well as the house they still live in today. He actually built (not contracted) every part of both houses. Dave was intrigued by anything mechanical. He was a self-taught mechanic at the time, working on foreign/sports cars and power glide transmissions. He later attended General Motors Institute and became a certified mechanic for the Applegate Chevrolet dealership in 1958. He started a tool and die apprenticeship at AC Spark plug in 1962. Dave became a journeyman die maker in 1966, and was promoted to die room supervisor in 1970. In 1978 he was promoted to a fluid power engineer in advanced engineering, and became Chief fluid power engineering supervisor in 1982. In 1988 he was selected to head an Advanced Development group to develop a mass airflow meter. Dave’s group developed several iterations of the Mass Airflow meter, and became the staff engineer of his group in 1994. He retired at the end of 1999, but continued consulting for the next two years. While consulting, Dave and Mary joined the Great Lakers, GMCMI, and built a barn in preparation for the purchase of a GMC

These are our eight grandsons on my tractor. This picture was taken during one of our annual wood cutting/splitting, stacking parties. Mary and I have been performing this tradition for over 60 years. It started with my parents. Our children and grandsons have attended this tradition every year, some coming from long distances while in college. As you may know, I am known to have a campfire at every outing, and a fireplace fire EVERY night from October to March. During the Covid lock down, Mary and I had MOCK camping/fires in our backyard. The Lenzi’s plan on attending the 2021 Fall GMCMI Convention in Chippewa Falls, Wisconsin. Check out Dave’s seminar or stop by their campfire and say hi!

SUMMER 2021

Dave and Mary’s kitty.

GMC MOTORHOMES INTERNATIONAL

2021 GMC MOTORHOMES INTERNATIONAL

WELCOME BACK

CONVENTION

Reminiscing The Past, Living the

SEPTEMBER 24-30, 2021 CHIPPEWA FALLS, WISCONSIN

The GMC motorhome is always the focus of our Conventions. But this time we are also focusing on the fond memories of past Conventions. In other words, we are reminiscing! And, since it has been awhile since the last Convention, we are pleased to “Welcome Back” the GMC Community to the 2021 Fall GMCMI Convention in Chippewa Falls, Wisconsin. There is so much to see and do in the area – plus there is the Convention! I invite you to check out some of the attractions.

Reminiscing The Past For those of you who have had the opportunity to attend previous GMCMI Conventions...remember those Convention themes? The 50s, the 70s, pirates, gangsters, western, Oktoberfest, hillbillies, Christmas in September, etc. Remember some of those crazy contests, talents, costumes, food, and fun? Well, here is your opportunity to share what you remember. When you arrive, check out the bulletin boards and indicate which Convention theme was your favorite. Check out displays and special program events such as the “Chili Cookoff” and the “Famous Cowgirls of the West” Ladies Social. At our Tuesday night dinner, we invite you to come in your favorite themed garb and have fun! If you are a first-timer, you are in for a great time! We get together for the love our vintage GMC Motorhome but everything else is like whipped cream and a cherry on top of a sundae!

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Chili Cooks Wanted! Enter Your Favorite Style... mild, spicy, bean, hot, vegetarian, green or white

BEST TABLE DECOR

award

Contact Kim at admin@gmcmi.com or 612-501-4600 for rules and details

To sign up on the registration form and get more details. For more information email admin@gmcmi.com Awards For BEST CHILI & BEST TABLE DECOR We can’t have a Chili Cookoff without Chili...enter as a GMC chapter, group or individual to take part. No entry fee. Open to all convention attendees. GMCMI will be providing hot dogs & crackers.

Birthing a Book [There is] the family you are born into, and the family that grows around you. – Ernie Fink Join GMCMI member, George Beckman, for an entertaining session about the creation of the novel, Members of the Cast. There will be fun pictures and music showing the research for this historical novel’s cars, clothes, and music. Learn about “getting the words right.” You are encouraged to read the book before the session so you can fall in love again with Margo, T. Charles, Sharon, and the other members of the cast. Kindle and Print books are available at https://books2read.com/ graestonewriter or amazon. But don’t worry....we will have a Book Exchange & Bookworms Remember to bring your books, tapes, and dvds for the Book Exchange held during the Convention. Bring your favorite book and share it at the Bookworms and Their Diet Session. A list will be provided of all books shared following the session. Check out previous lists at: https:// www.gmcmi.com/community-book-list/

Present, and Looking Forward to the Future. September 24-30, 2021 | Chippewa Falls, Wisconsin

Famous Cowgirls of the West

Convention Highlights

Tech Notes... GMC’s Full Service Parts & Repair Facility Owners

Get your western attitude on and boots, too! The Ladies of the GMC Great Midwest Classics invite all the ladies to take a step back in time and learn more about the Famous Cowgirls of the West. Enjoy a lunch while visiting with old and new friends. Participants are encouraged to show their “Western Wear”, but not required. We ask that you bring a children’s book about cowboys, horses, western folklore, etc. that will be donated locally.

Quilting Clinic The Making of a GMCMI Convention Logo Quilt

This quilt project will utilize new Convention t-shirts from the past that have been donated by Stan & Eileen Edwards and the niece of Fred & Diane Dugger. Be part of this historical event... whether you have quilting experience or not, we need those that can sew, iron, laugh, and have fun! Let’s make this a fantastic social time. Thank you to first-timer, Jean Kubisen from Pennsylvania, who has volunteered to lead the Quilting Clinic at the Convention. She is looking for additional sewing machines, irons, and boards. For more information contact Jean at jkubisen@gmail.com or 410-693-2240. Let’s make history!

• Jeff Sirum of Alex Sirum GMC will be present with an array of GMC parts and products. He will also be conducting a couple of tech sessions and the famous “Weighing of the Coaches” • Jim Kanomata of Applied GMC and Jim Bounds of Cooperative Motor Works will be presenting tech sessions via Zoom

• Six nights of camping, Friday through Wednesday night • Restrooms and showers available • Come early for Wednesday and Thursday for only $30 a night • 15-21 hours of tech sessions • Vendors, Vendors, Vendors... • 12-19 hours of non-technical sessions

Some of the Tech Sessions Scheduled

• Three ice cream socials

• Dave Lenzi: Brakes • Jeff Sirum: The Importance of Weighing Your GMC • Ken Frey: Fuel Tank System Venting • Jim Bounds: The Future of the GMC Motorhome • Larry Weidner: Installing the Cadillac 500 in a GMC Motorhome • Ty Hardiman: GMC Motorhomes 101 • Richard Waters: Headlight Adjustment Clinic • And so many more....

• Two Dinners

Windshield Clinic

• Three Lunches • Daily Book Exchange • Hot waffles daily, two egg breakfasts, and one SOS breakfast • The Chili Cookoff! • A Tour and Show at the Historical Mabel Tainter Center for the Arts

We will again be offering the Windshield Clinic as we have done in now nine previous rallies. We have the same company and guys supplying the windshields and doing the work. They will be there on Saturday and Sunday, September 25 and 26. Ken Burton has volunteered to coordinate the pre-order of the windshields and scheduling of the installation times. Only windshields that are pre-ordered will be shipped to the site.

• Ladies Luncheon

All pre-orders and communications (questions, etc.) will be taken and processed by Ken at gmcwindshield@ gmail.com. If you cannot do email, contact Kim Weeks for assistance. Since this is a clinic, you are welcome and invited to stop and watch them work and ask occasional questions.

• Windshield Replacement Clinic

Indoor and Outdoor Vendor Area

Indoor and outdoor vendor space is available. We are leaving it up to the vendors where they prefer to present their products and services. Vendors, please contact Kim if you wish to utilize the indoor vendor area. Thank you. GMC Part Exchange, Craft & Flea Market

Bring those no longer needed items to sell! Also, we enjoy seeing and purchasing those lovely things you make.

SUMMER 2021

• Bring those instruments for a jam session. • GMC Parts Exchange, Craft & Flea Market • GMC Motorhome “Open House” • Weighing of the Coaches • Participate in the Sunday Worship Service Choir • Pineblock Derby – don’t forget your racer! • The popular raffle for $1,000 in cash, free convention fees for two, plus many more items.

PLUS... DAILY DOOR PRIZES

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2021 GMC MOTORHOMES INTERNATIONAL

WELCOME BACK

CONVENTION

SEPTEMBER 24-30, 2021 CHIPPEWA FALLS, WISCONSIN

More to look forward to!

A Tour, Dinner, and a Show!

Other Happening

Other Notes of Interest

Carla Cooke - Ultimate Sam Cooke Experience at the Mabel Tainter Center for the Arts 5:30 pm | Saturday, September 27 Menomonie, Wisconsin

Crafts We have a couple of craft items scheduled but if you would like to share and lead a group....fantastic! This is always a fun time and it’s amazing what we make and how proud we are when we are done. Email Kim today at kimweeksgmc@gmail.com

Additional Sessions We have a couple session slots open, just in case you have an idea or session you would wish to lead, please contact Kim. Thank you.

Legendary Sam Cooke, famous for hit songs such as “Twistin’ The Night Away,” “Chain Gang,” “Summertime” and “Wonderful World, “ was an American singer songwriter, civil-rights activist and entrepreneur. Influential as both a singer and composer, he is commonly known as the “King of Soul.” Carla Cooke, Sam’s youngest daughter, mirrors the image of her father in her daily life and through her performances. Carla crafted her sound in the church similar to her dad’s. On this very special tour, she reconnects her audience with her father’s roots through his music. This package includes a tour, private dinner, and cash bar in the Gallery and reserved theater seating for the performance at the Mabel Tainter Center for the Arts, a venue named one of “15 Spectacular Theaters in the World” by CNN TRAVEL! The package price is $50 per person. For more information, www. mabeltainter.org. Tickets need to be ordered and paid for in advance. Order your tickets on the Convention registration form.

Other GMC Fall Rallies

GMCMI is happy to welcome the GMC Greater Midwest Classics and the GMC Six Wheelers who will be utilizing the GMCMI Fall Convention as one of their rallies!

Blankets, Pet Beds, Etc. We have made over 1,000 fleece blankets since 2006. If you wish to learn or bring one you are working on, great! It is fun to sit and work on a blanket (while others are working on the quilt) and chat away while getting to know each other. The blankets are easy to do. You don’t have to sew! Just bring one yard of plan fleece and one yard of printed fleece along with your scissors. Choir Sunday morning we have a nondenominational worship with a choir! We need you...join the choir and fun. Ladies, Get Behind the Wheel We have the perfect parking lot, cones, etc. but we are in need of a leader for this great session! Volunteer today and help the ladies drive their motorhome with someone other than their husband supervising! Contact Kim today. Pineblock Derby! Get those GMC racers out of the closet and fine tune them for the Derby! For rules go to: www.gmcmi.com/ gmcmi-pineblock-derby/

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Early Arrival Come early and explore Chippewa Falls and the area. Stay at the Northern Wisconsin State Fairgrounds for $30 a night. All camping reservations prior and for the Convention are made via the GMCMI Convention registration form. Can’t Come for Entire Week? Not a problem. Call Kim at 612-501-4600 or email her at kimweeksgmc@gmail.com and let her know when you would like to arrive and depart. See you there! Rooms for Gatherings Rooms are available (no charge) for club gatherings, social gatherings, etc. Contact Kim for arrangements.

In Closing This is just a few of the items we will are planning. I know there will be more as the Convention gets closer. Please do check the website (www.gmcmi. com) for additional information along with the special “Convention Order your kit on the Convention Update eNews”.

PINEBLOCK Derby Kit

registration form for the Clinic (pickup on arrival) or build your derby racer at home. Only $20 each with free shipping. Order at: thegmcmhstore.com

Welcome to Chippewa Falls, Wisconsin

and the Northern Wisconsin State Fairgrounds

Chippewa Falls was once a lumber town founded in 1869. While lumberjacks worked tirelessly, they enjoyed their time off with local outdoor activities and local cuisine, like Leinenkugel beer. Today’s guests find a population of over 14,000, and outdoor activities and cuisine worth the trip. Discover the culture and experience all of the fun it has to offer. From handcrafted beer, award-winning wines, savory eats, freshly roasted coffee, pristine forests, 2.5 miles to 19.5 miles trails for walking or biking, plus the beautiful Lake Wissota, you may never want to leave. The Jacob Leinenkugel Brewing Company has been crafting beer for over 150 years, since 1867. Jacob Leinenkugel was a first-generation immigrant from Germany, who brought with him his father’s brewing knowledge. The brewery can be toured daily, with a final stop in the brewery gift shop, where apparel, glassware, and of course, beer is available for purchase. The Irvine Park Zoo (across the street from the fairgrounds) Founded in 1906 occupies over 300 acres of land, the zoo houses some of nature’s greatest animals, like the white Bengal tiger, zebra, capuchin monkey, and coatimundi. The Old Abe State Trail, is a 19.5-mile trail that connects Chippewa Falls and Cornell. This old railway has two trailheads located in Chippewa Falls. While hikers can take the trail for free, those using bikes, horses, or skis must buy a trail pass (daily passes available) from the Land Conservation & Forest Management Department located in

the county courthouse. Animals and wildlife can be found along the trail, but proper conservation etiquette is requested. Lake Wissota State Park stands at an interesting ecosystem – right on the edge of both a prairie and temperate forest. This means that visitors have an opportunity to see an extensive array of wildlife and animals. The park overlooks a 6,300 man-made lake that includes a 285-foot beach for swimming or canoeing. Canoes and firewood can be rented/purchased at the park office. The Autumn Harvest Winery started its legacy as an apple orchard in 1924 and opened the winery in 2004, using the family orchards’ fruits to craft hard ciders and wines. Though wineries are geared toward adults of legal drinking age, Autumn Harvest Winery offers family-friendly activities to get everyone involved. Chippewa Farmers Market located in the Allen Park offers locally grown fresh fruits, vegetables, baked goods, maple syrup, honey, meat, flowers, and more at the farmers market in Chippewa Falls every Thursday! The Bridge Street Commercial District in downtown Chippewa Falls was listed on the National Register of Historic Places. “Step back in time” as you stroll the streets and admire the historic buildings and great shopping. Check out the Mason Shoe Outlet Store and home of Olson’s Ice Cream.

SUMMER 2021

Chippewa Falls Oktoberfest has been providing a family-friendly German heritage event in the Chippewa Valley for 17 years. Festival-goers can enjoy four stages, over 30 entertainers, vendors, authentic foods, and plenty of dancing. Oktoberfest is September 17 & 18 on the fairgrounds. (Sorry... no camping on the fairgrounds during Oktoberfest.) Northern Wisconsin State Fairgrounds The fairgrounds is a 50+ acre facility parklike setting with clean, safe, hometown hospitality! The physical address is 225 Edward St, Chippewa Falls, WI 54729. The mailing address is PO Box 48, Chippewa Falls, WI 54729. Ammenities, Etc. • Beautiful fairgrounds • Paved drives throughout grounds. • All sites have electric (30 or 50 amp) and water. • Some sewer sites available (first-come basis). • Dump station available. • No open campfires or fire rings permitted. Above-ground campfire units are allowed. • Illegal drugs, firearms, and/or any other type of weapons are prohibited anywhere on the fairgrounds. • Pets are welcome but must be tethered (max of 8 feet) at all times (City Ordinance 12.11(20)(b). Pick up and discard all feces in trash bins. Do not leave pets unattended. • Indoor & Outdoor Vendor Area is available. Vendors that wish to display inside, please contact Kim Weeks for additional information.

GMC MOTORHOMES INTERNATIONAL

The Schedule

TENTATIVE THAT IS...

WED. | SEPTEMBER 22 | PRE-CONVENTION 1:00 pm Early Arrival & Registration Begins (closes at 5pm) THURS. | SEPTEMBER 23 | PRE-CONVENTION 7:30 am Morning Coffee and Donuts 9:00 am Early Arrival & Registration Begins (closes at 5pm) 7:30 pm Ice Cream Social 8:00 pm Bingo (free cards, prizes awarded) FRIDAY | SEPTEMBER 24 7:30 am Morning Coffee, Donuts, Oatmeal & Waffles 9:00 am GMCMI Arrival & Registration (closes at 4pm) 1:00 pm Choir Practice for Sunday Worship Service 3:15 pm First-Timers Meeting – All Members Welcome 5:15 pm Welcome Meeting 6:15 pm Social and Catered Meal

MONDAY | SEPTEMBER 27 7:30 am Morning Coffee, Donuts, Waffles, Bagels, English Muffins, Oatmeal, Juice, & Fruit 7:30 am Pineblock Derby Weigh-in 8:30 am Announcements/Daily Drawings 9:00 am Morning Tech & Non-Tech Sessions Noon “Famous Cowgirls of the West” Ladies Luncheon Noon Pulled pork sandwiches for the Men 1:00 pm Afternoon Tech Sessions 3:00 pm Afternoon Non-Tech Sessions 6:00 pm Facilities available for club/group get-togethers – please contact Kim Weeks for arrangements 7:30 pm Ice Cream Social 8:00 pm Pineblock Derby Races TUESDAY | SEPTEMBER 28 7:30 am Morning Coffee, Donuts, Waffles, Bagels, English Muffins, Oatmeal, Juice, & Fruit 7:30 am Egg Breakfast 8:30 am Announcements/Daily Drawings 9:00 am Morning Tech & Non-Tech Sessions 1:00 pm Afternoon Tech & Non-Tech Session 2:30 pm GMCMI Regional Member Meetings 3:45 pm Weighing of the Coaches & Headlight Alignment Clinics 5:30 pm My Favorite Theme Party! – Dress in your favorite theme, share in a great meal and enjoy the entertainment and karaoke & dance the night away.

SATURDAY | SEPTEMBER 25 | WINDSHIELD CLINIC 7:30 am Morning Coffee, Donuts, Waffles, Bagels, English Muffins, Oatmeal, Juice, & Fruit 7:30 am Egg Breakfast 8:30 am Announcements/Daily Drawings 9:00 am Morning Tech & Non-Tech Sessions Noon The Great Chili Cookoff! 1:00 pm Afternoon Tech & Non-Tech Sessions 4:00 pm Leave for the Mabel Tainter Center 6:00 pm Facilities available for club/group get-togethers – please contact Kim Weeks for arrangements 7:30 pm Ice Cream Social 8:00 pm Bingo (free cards, prizes awarded) SUNDAY | SEPTEMBER 26 | WINDSHIELD CLINIC 7:30 am Morning Coffee, Donuts, Waffels, Bagels, English Muffins, Oatmeal, Juice & Fruit 7:30 am SOS Breakfast 8:30 am Announcements/Daily Drawings 9:00 am Worship Service 10:15 am Morning Tech & Non-Tech Sessions 1:15 pm GMC Parts Exchange, Craft & Flea Market 3:00 pm The Open House Tour! 6:00 pm Facilities available for club/group get-togethers – please contact Kim Weeks for arrangements

WEDNESDAY | SEPTEMBER 29 7:30 am Morning Coffee, Donuts, Waffles, Bagels, English Muffins, Oatmeal, Juice, & Fruit 8:30 am Announcements/Daily Drawings 9:00 am Morning Tech & Non-Tech Sessions 11:30 am Membership Meeting, Awards, GMCMI Raffle (luncheon to follow Membership Meeting) THURSDAY | SEPTEMBER 30 Noon Campground Checkout – Convention Ends – Have A Safe Trip Home!

We’ve Invited the

Vintage Trailers to Join Us! What an Open House it will be... GMC Motorhomes & Vintage Trailers! 20

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2021 GMC MOTORHOMES INTERNATIONAL

WELCOME BACK

CONVENTION

GMCMI’s 2021 Fall Convention Friday, Sept. 24 to Thursday, Sept. 30 | Northern Wisconsin State Fairgrounds Downloadable interactive registration pdf available at: https://www.gmcmi.com/2021f-convention-info/

Registration Deadline is Sept. 17!

SEPTEMBER 24-30, 2021 CHIPPEWA FALLS, WISCONSIN

_________________________________________________________________ GMCMI Member Number (if you are a member)

_________________________________________________________________ First Person

_________________________________________________________________ Second Person

_________________________________________________________________ Street

_________________________________________________________________ City

_________________________________________________________________ State | Postal Code | Country

_________________________________________________________________

Registration | bringing a motorhome Unable to attend the entire Convention? Email Kim at address below.

Convention & Camping Fee (Two-Person Motorhome)

$435.00 $__________

Convention & Camping Fee (One-Person Motorhome)

$295.00 $__________

Additional Adult in above ____ x $160.00 $__________ Motorhome (19 & older) Additional Child in above Motorhome (7-18, FREE under 7) ____ x $ 100.00 $__________ Optional Early Night(s) Wednesday, September 22 Thursday, September 23

$30.00 $__________ $30.00 $__________

Telephone

Registration | NOT bringing a motorhome

_________________________________________________________________

Convention Registration (Two-Person Party)

$290.00 $__________

_________________________________________________________________

Convention Registration (One-Person Party)

$145.00 $__________

_________________________________________________________________

Registration | For Everybody

First Person Cellular

Second Person Cellular

Year, Make, Model and Length of Motorhome You Are Attending With

Names, City, & State of Extra People in Coach (if different than above) _ _________________________________________________________________

Handicap Parking Needed? Yes No Yes No Is this your first GMCMI Convention? Are you a GMC Midwest Classics member? Yes No Are you a GMC 6-Wheelers member? Yes No Are you a Vintage Trailer? Yes No Brand, Model, & Year of Trailer_______________________________ Are you CPR certified? (name/s)______________________________ _________________________________________________________________

We/I wish to receive more information on the Chili Cookoff! We/I wish to sit at a themed table at the “My Favorite Theme Party!” is: (50s, 70s, Pirates, Hillbillly, Gangsters, Western/Wild West, Christmas in September, Oktoberfest) _______________________________ We/I wish to participate in the Sunday Worship Service Choir (name/s)_________________________________________________________ We/I wish to conduct a session at the Convention. The subject is: ___________________________________________________ Indoors I am a supplier/vendor, I prefer: Outside My products/services are:____________________________________ _________________________________________________________________ _________________________________________________________________ _________________________________________________________________

Please list any tech/non-tech session topic(s) you would like: _________________________________________________________________

Mail with payment to: Kim Weeks, 1214 No Jefferson Way, Suite 352, Indianola, Iowa 50125

Convention Logo T-Shirt(s) (indicate quantity) S _____ M _____ L _____ XL _____ x $ 12 each $__________ XXL _____ XXXL _____ x $ 15 each $__________ The Mabel Tainter Tour, Dinner & Show _____ x $ 50 each $__________ Pineblock Derby (pu in Chippewa) $20 each $__________ Late Reservation Fee (ONLY IF SPACE IS AVAILABLE) (received after September 17) $25.00 $__________ Credit Card Fee (If charging) $15.00 $__________

Total Enclosed $__________ Payment Options Check/Money Order Enclosed – Number_______________ Please make payable to GMCMI – U.S. funds drawn on U.S. bank NOTE: there is a $15 charge to use a credit card as listed above. To charge, email registration form to kimweeksgmc@gmail.com, you will then receive a Paypal invoice via email. Simply click and pay with a Paypal account or major credit credit card.

Additional Registration Information • A signed GMCMI Convention Waiver and Release of Liability for Exposure to COVID-19 required for attending the Convention. • Checks must be in U.S. funds and drawn on a U.S. bank. Foreign checks cannot be processed. • Email confirmation will be sent. • Cancellations after Sept. 17 will be refunded minus a $40 fee. • Cancellations after Sept. 23 will be refunded minus a $75 fee.

Email: kimweeksgmc@gmail.com

SUMMER 2021

Fax: 866-519-0047

Questions: 612-501-4600

GMC MOTORHOMES INTERNATIONAL

Technical Corner

MAINTENANCE, RENOVATIONS, AND MORE

Conversion of the Old Style V-belt System to a Serpentine Belt System Guy Brookes | 1976 Palm Beach | Calgary, Alberta, Canada

I wanted to pass on my exploits of being a new GMC Motorhome owner! I live in Calgary, Alberta, and purchased a coach from within the US in 2017. The coach sat in storage for two years as I had other ongoing projects. In the spring of 2020, l started to work on the coach. I wanted to address the drive train first and decided to start with the engine. The coach has 60,000 miles on it and the engine purrs like a kitten. I researched the possibility of converting the old V-belt system to a serpentine system. I found a company in the US that has a complete kit for the 455 Olds engine. This is a very expensive kit and on top of that is the unfavorable Canadian currency exchange. The company is called CVF Racing and they are based out of New Prague, Minnesota. Now, sometimes you spend a bunch of money and then say “that was a mistake”. Well, that is not the case with this package. I am amazed at how perfectly this worked out. The kit is complete with every nut, bolt, and spacer required to mount the main plate and all the components. The kit included a 140 amp one-wire alternator, power steering pump with the option to have a remote reservoir (which I opted for), a/c compressor, pulleys, idler wheels, a tensioner, and the belt. Also, the pulleys, idlers, and the tensioner have decorative covers to give a quality finished appearance. Of course, this system is designed for the car enthusiast so appearance is important to them but not so much in our application because it is not seen by anyone. The kit comes in chrome or black.

OK. you are thinking what are the negatives or problem issues. The biggest problem and the only problem was that the fan blades were making slight contact with the decorative cover on the

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tensioner. I removed this cover and now have ample clearance for the fan blades. I retained the original GM clutch fan which seems to work fine. Because the old alternator and a/c compressor were now deleted the two top mounting brackets for the horse collar were not there. I called CVF Racing to inquire if I could drill two 5/16” holes in the main mounting plate to accommodate two small brackets for the horse collar. They indicated that it would not be an issue at all. See pictures (at right) of the stand-off brackets I fabricated. The features, from my viewpoint, are many. They have a lifetime warranty. This kit has an 8 rib belt whereas most only use a 6 rib. All components are forward of the engine block and nothing had to be changed from the fan blade to the radiator. The original fuel pump was utilized with no modifications required. The beauty of this is that there is no equipment hanging on top of the engine as the A/C compressor and alternator, do on the original. Changing the belt took me less than 15 minutes. One belt to change, instead of three and no adjusters to mess around with, the tensioner does the adjusting instantly. The belt system runs true and quiet. The power steering remote reservoir is a real benefit as I have installed it inside the driver’s hood area just below where the old hydraulic wiper motor used to be and there is no interference with the wiper

For technical session presentations and papers, go to www.gmcmi.com/technical-presentations-papers/

The last thing I had connected was the A/C compressor etc. My A/C guy was impressed with how much room he had to work with since he does a lot of hot rod installs and he indicated they are very tight. I was impressed that the mini compressor works so well. I guess the new technology is better. So I now have a 134 system that my installer said is putting out cold air in the correct range.

system. One item to note is that the power steering pump can be mounted in two positions. I installed the pump with the highpressure port looking vertical, you could have it horizontal. For my install, I removed everything from the grill right thru to the front of the block. I installed a new double roller timing chain and gears and then a new water pump. You need the 6 inch one. I installed the serpentine kit and bolted everything back in from the fan forward. I installed a new engine oil cooler and transmission cooler in front of the original a/c coil. I used all DIY braided hoses and fittings. I did not pipe the engine oil or transmission through the radiator.

I have not done any cross-country trips since the system was installed but with all my short trips the whole system has been flawless. I have included pictures of the install which does show, in my opinion, the beauty of the system. For me, it was money well spent. If you have any questions or require further info please do not hesitate to contact me by phone at 403-852-3202 or email guv005@shaw.ca.

Your GMC Motorhome Information Source... www.gmcmi.com Your source of items on the history, parts books, maintenance schedules, manuals, wiring diagrams, structural drawings, factory service, recall bulletins, a list of GMC Motorhome suppliers, shop services, and a host of other community items. Check out the Marketplace – the place to shop for a GMC motorhome, parts, service, new products, or list what you are looking for!

SUMMER 2021

GMC MOTORHOMES INTERNATIONAL

Technical Corner

“Ask yourself this question…”

“What if someone had told you?”

MAINTENANCE, RENOVATIONS, AND MORE

“These things aren’t in the manual.”

“What would you say?”

“What is essential for a new GMC owner to know?”

Dave Stragand | 1978 Transmode | Cranberry Township, Pennsylvania

The GMC Motorhome is like any other RV in some ways, and unlike any other RV in others. We all have our reasons for buying, restoring, preserving, modifying, and loving our coaches. We all have our stories to tell, and we all have learned a lot of lessons along the way. But what if you had a magic GMC clock that could turn back time to the day you bought your coach? What advice would you give to your younger self about GMC ownership? Whether you bought your coach new or just bought it yesterday, no one knows it all from the start. Much wisdom comes from your own experience, but if you are smart you will learn the most from the experience of others. If a new GMC Motorhome owner asked me what are the essential things they need to know, I would give them the same answers I would give my younger self. I would skip all the specific mechanical lectures on oil filter choices, greasing bogies, or sealing leaks. Those answers are already out there if you ask, or if you look. Instead, I would relay much more general advice – the kind you can not find in books – and what has helped me the most over time. > No coach is ever ‘done’. Just because you purchased a coach does not mean you can put away your wallet. There will always be something to buy or fix. You purchased a rolling combination of an antique truck and a nearly 50-year-old house. Even ‘new’ replacement items will eventually need to be replaced due to use, disuse, wear, corrosion, vibration, heat, and cold. Maintenance is an ongoing process, never-ending, that affects reliability, safety, and comfort. You have to be realistic and understand that there will be steady expenditures of time and money. 24

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> Make a budget. If you spend every cent buying a coach that needs a lot more money invested before it is usable, you will start to see the coach only as an endless drain on your wallet. It is a race against time – the longer the coach sits, the more it will need, and the less energy you will have to do it. This is what my friends call the “Project Car Spiral”. Avoid it. Make a detailed list of what your coach needs, and how much it will cost to do it. Then, create a realistic budget of how much time and money you can spend on your coach per month, and develop a schedule of when you will proceed with each individual repair. > Decide on what matters to you. In buying or restoring any coach, you need to set some priorities. Will your coach be used for short weekend getaways or crosscountry treks? Will its life be a tailgate/party bus, a period-correct restoration, or a full-time home? It is hard to have it all, so determining your goals for the project are important. Even when you have picked out your coach, prioritize the repairs or upgrades, and focus on the things that will bring you the greatest satisfaction first. > Function first, form follows. It is claimed that only about 10% of coaches that have the interior gutted ever end up back on the road. It seems the majority of those who strip down coaches are folks who have never even taken their rig on an overnight trip but felt the need to do a total interior

For technical session presentations and papers, go to www.gmcmi.com/technical-presentations-papers/

rebuild before they first bunk overnight. Be careful you do not dig a hole so deep that you can’t climb out. > Watch ‘scope creep’. Upon bringing home a coach, some folks immediately decide they need to heavily modify the engine, completely modernize the interior, put in a stereo/video setup costing thousands, and invest in a killer paint job. Whoa! Will that kill your budget? Possibly. Could these projects take time away from getting out and enjoying the coach? Likely. If you feel like the scope of your project is growing uncontrollably as you work, then stop, take a breath, and split it into separate whole projects. Stage I, Stage II, etc. There is no reason you can not “finish” your coach two, three, or even ten times! Each time you “finish”, you build up the gumption you will need for the next stage of your project. > Gumption, patience and Zen. Gumption is your enthusiasm and energy to get the work done on your GMC. If you do not have it, nothing will ever get done. Conversely, if you do have it, there is no way you will not get it done. Think of it as the on/off switch for the success of your project. When you feel like working on the coach, get to it! When you do not feel like working on the coach, don’t. It sounds like common sense, but you would be surprised how many people do not see that. If you do not feel like working on your coach, but you force yourself into it, you start to get sloppy, make mistakes, and lose even more gumption in the process. Keep your gumption high and success will follow. > Keep notes. What you did, what you have to buy, and what you need to do. Just a simple spiral notebook can be a wonderful resource in your restoration. Write down notes as you need them, staple in your receipts for parts and service, and keep up-todate “to do” and “to buy” lists. Eventually, you get to cross each completed item off of your list and believe me, that is very satisfying. Every item crossed off will help you realize you really are getting somewhere with your project. You can also use your “to do” and “to buy” lists to help you revise your budget once in a while, which gives you a more secure feeling about how much time and money it will take to complete your coach. Plus, when you are done you will have an amazing scrapbook to look back on as well.

> Get a little help from your friends. Another option is to ask other GMC owners for help. Most are happy to help you with projects both large and small, and you can always benefit from their experience. Make friends with the owners within a day’s drive from you, and keep in touch. Register for the Black List. Meet others in your local club, and get to know the online resources for information and assistance. Most vendors are also happy to meet you and help you out if you call. Ask for help when you need it, and remember to return the favor someday! > Buy or borrow test equipment & tools. Knowing what is going on with your coach is not a ‘knack’, it’s a process. Your coach will always tell you what is wrong with it – if you only know the right questions to ask. The manuals have good checklists for troubleshooting the most common problems, but many require special tools like fuel pressure test gauges, timing lights, or emissions testers. You can usually find an owner near you who has the special tools you need, and the experience to help you use them. If not, many of the tools are available from vendors or by specialty tool stores online. The money spent on good diagnostic tools always pays for itself in the end. > Go with the GMC Motorhome vendors. Our vendors make a living by providing you with parts that they 100% guarantee will work on your GMC, and they do so at reasonable prices. As a bonus, I have gotten valuable free tech support from every vendor I have purchased from, and that advice has saved me huge amounts of time and money over the years. > In closing. Of all of the things I have learned with our GMC, these are what I would have liked to have known from the start. However, I can guarantee that the experiences of others have been different – as varied, unique, and meaningful as their own coaches and travels. So what would you tell the new GMC owner, or tell yourself if you could turn back that clock? What are the things you know now that you wished you had known then?

“We’d love to hear from you. Please drop us a line at kimweeksgmc@gmail.com or dave@stragand.com and let us know.

> Pick your battles. Sometimes, no matter how much you want to do a certain task, you find that you simply lack the tools, time, knowledge, or energy to do it. That is part of any restoration. There is no shame in farming out work to a vendor or good repair shop – and you may save time, money, and hassles as well.

We would love to share them in a future article.

SUMMER 2021

GMC MOTORHOMES INTERNATIONAL

Technical Corner

MAINTENANCE, RENOVATIONS, AND MORE

LED Headlight Conversion Jeff Sirum | 1977 Eleganza | Okeechobee, Florida | Alex Sirum GMC Motorhomes, Inc. | www.sirumvintagegmc.com

One of the recent upgrades that has become very popular for the GMC is LED headlights. Most original headlights, were usable but not very bright. At night or in the rain, visibility is poor and unsafe even if you have halogen bulbs.

The replacement LED kits are three times brighter than original headlights. They are a white light not blue like some LED lights. These kits are very easy to install and should only take an hour or less. The new headlight lens is still glass but has a removable socket

for the bulb. The glass lenses should not haze, fade, or fog up like most new replacement light kits. The new LED headlight assembly is pre-wired and will plug directly into the original wire harness.

Follow the installation steps below for a successful install:

1. Check your old lights to make sure they work on high and low. If there is no power the new light will not work either.

3. Locate and remove the three small flat blade screws in the tabs on the stainless steel ring holding the bulb into the pocket. There is no need to remove the adjuster screws.

2. Remove the fiberglass bezels.

4. Allow the bulb to drop out forward to access the wire plug and disconnect.

! 26

Like most aftermarket upgrades we do to the GMC’s, the owner is responsible for their coach and any modifications they make.

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5. Find the new bulb sockets in the kit, remove the spring clip, and discard the white plug. Find the new LED bulb (do not touch the lens area) and insert the bulb in the socket it will only fit one way. The three black tabs will orientate it correctly. Connect the spring clips and be sure the bulb is secure in the lens.

6. Plug in the new bulb assembly. If the three-wire receptacle is severely rusted or broken, it may need to be replaced. Call us if you need the part number or we can ship you a socket.

For technical session presentations and papers, go to www.gmcmi.com/technical-presentations-papers/

Notes of Interest The better LED bulbs are sealed and have fins (heat sink).

7. Hold the bulb back into the metal pocket and make sure the numbers are on the bottom edge of the bulb. The new headlight assembly should index into the three nubs. Screw on the SS ring with the three small screws.

If the new LEDs have a cooling fan, it is recomended to add a water deflector behind and above the bulb. This will keep the water that comes around the hoods from getting the back of the bulb asembly wet.

8. If everything went well, the headlights are still aligned correctly but you should check them. Most of the time we will turn the top adjuster screw out 1-1/2 turns and the side adjuster out one turn. The new lights are so bright that if you do not aim them down slightly you may offend oncoming drivers.

9. Once the lights are aimed correctly you can reinstall the fiberglass bezels.

DIY Do It Yourself

For you do-it-yourself owners, you can go online to find the LED bulbs and adapt them to work for the GMC Motorhome. But why not spend a little more, save time and effort, and purchase a LED kit from one of our GMC Suppliers listed on page 29.

SUMMER 2021

GMC MOTORHOMES INTERNATIONAL

Technical Corner

MAINTENANCE, RENOVATIONS, AND MORE

Gas Nozzle Adapter Kelvin Dietz | 1973 Glacier | Eugene, Oregon

The gas nozzles in many states have “bellows” on them to catch fumes while filling your tank. If the bellows aren’t fully engaged with the filler on the vehicle the fuel won’t pump. The GMC fuel filler doesn’t easily accommodate these bellows. You have to hold the nozzle up and into the filler to keep the fuel flowing.

1. Start with a 2”, 60° elbow, available at any home improvement store.

Not something many of us want to do for the length of time it takes to fill a GMC. A simple option is to make an adapter between the GMC filler and the nozzle bellows.

3. The cut parts.

5. Adaptor installed. The fuel nozzle bellows will seat well on this adaptor and you will not have to hold the nozzle in place for 20 minutes.

2. Cutting the elbow exactly in half will give you two adaptors. If you are not making one for a friend make the cut safely to one side and trim it back if you wish. I have cut them with a hacksaw but a bandsaw certainly makes things easier.

4. Clean up the fuzzy plastic made from cutting it.

Thank You Kelvin!

2021 GMC MOTORHOMES INTERNATIONAL

WELCOME BACK

CONVENTION

SEPTEMBER 24-30, 2021 CHIPPEWA FALLS, WISCONSIN

Kelvin has made and donated adapters to be given away as daily door prizes at the GMCMI 2021 Fall Convention!

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GMC Motorhome Supplier/Vendors List >> FULL SERVICE, PARTS & REPAIR FACILITIES

>> COMMERCIAL PARTS SUPPLIERS

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.

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.

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.

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!

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!

>> SERVICE & REPAIR FACILITIES Bob Stone 618-964-9124 | Carbondale, IL Service and repair. 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.

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.

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.

>> OTHER PART SUPPLIERS

DJ’s Classic GMC Motorhome Service

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.

Ken Frey Auto HAS PARTS! Frey Auto Repair has closed, but Ken still has many miscellaneous parts. Check the website or call him to check availability. He is also happy to chat with GMCers who need service or part information. PLEASE CALL BETWEEN 8 a.m. and Noon, EDT. 215-536-1246 | freyautoken@yahoo.com 2230 Milford Ave., PO Box 4, Milford Square, PA 18935

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. 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.

SUMMER 2021

GMC MOTORHOMES INTERNATIONAL

GMC Motorhome Supplier/Vendors 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)

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.

CruzinGear Christo Darsch | info@cruzingear.co | www.cruzingear.co GMC Motorhome Wall-Mounted Bottle Openers. Get Your Shine On.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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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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

1973 – Custom Canyon Land photo(s) on www.gmcmi.com FL | $50,000 firm | 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 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 – 26’ GMC Airport Transport MN | $37,500 | photo(s) on www.gmcmi.com Well maintained 1976 - 26’ GMC Motorhome, interior completely updated by Cinnabar in 2001. Logged 20,273 miles since. Always stored indoors. Many upgrades listed on website. Paul D. Randall | 651-295-8968 | Paul.d.randall@gmail.com

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.

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 1976 Royale TX | $19,500 | photo(s) on www.gmcmi.com Previously used to attend weekend soccer tournaments. Stored in building and batter tenders. Rebuilt 403 engine/transmission and new diffeential transaxle in 2020. Passed TX inspection. Kristopher Hochart | 210-421-2691 1977 Eleganza II – Price Lowered photo(s) on www.gmcmi.com CA | $17,500 $23,000/OBO | Recently serviced and certified by Applied GMC in Newark, California! All repair paperwork and GMC manuals. Ronald Shoffeitt | bigbearmoon@aol.com

Classifieds >> GMC MOTORHOME FOR SALE

1977 Eleganza II FL | $32,000 | photo(s) on www.gmcmi.com Nice, reliable coach, check it out. The GMC rides and drives excellent. Check out the long list of upgrades on the GMCMI website. Dan Gammon | 317-297-4812 phone/text | dgammon6@gmail.com

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

SUMMER 2021

GMC MOTORHOMES INTERNATIONAL

Classified Ads 1977 Eleganza II photo(s) on www.gmcmi.com WA | $10,000 | Original owner of 1977 Eleganza II located in Washington for $10,000. All new tires including spare. Two extra 16-1/2” rims. New engine and house batteries. New master cylinder, brakes have been bled. Original Zip-Dee awning. Gino Sanfilippo | gsanfil80@gmail.com | rsanfilippo59@gmail.com

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.

1977/1991 GMC Motorhome Clasco photo(s) on www.gmcmi.com WA | $45,750 | Ready to enjoy now! Everything works like new. Have to sell due to new job in new location, so must go ASAP. Check out the beautiful interior and list of improvments. Dr. Jorge Nelson | 253-993-6628

>> PARTS/TOW VEHICLES/ETC. FOR SALE

1977 Kingsley Clasco – Price Lowered FL | $60,000 $70,000 | photo(s) on www.gmcmi.com 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

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

www.thegmcmhstore.com

O RH

MES INT ER N

HH HHH

AL ON TI A

Apparel | Merchandise | Back Magazine Issues

Visit the GMC Motorhome Store MEMBER

BENEFIT HH HH H

GMC Motorhome Trivia Questions Take the Challenge... Test Your Knowledge So, what do you really know about our GMC Motorhomes? Answers can be found on page 35. 1 “GMC” was founded in 1912

and stands for: A - Grabosky Motor Co. B - Get More Cash C - General Motors Corp.

2 A little known model name used

by the GMC Motorhome was: A - Cape Cod B - Lake Placid C - Tiffany D - Sterling Mist

3 Which of the terms below was

NOT used to describe the air suspension system: A - Electro Level B - Power Level C - Dana Air Level

BY BILL BRYANT, GMC MOTORHOME HISTORIAN

4 Which GMC Motorhome model was not

offered in 1973/1974: A - Canyon Land B - Glacier C - Palm Beach D - Sequoia (Read more in the Summer 2017 GMC Vintage RVing magazine)

5 How many years has the GMC Vintage

RVing magazine been published? A - four years B - six years C - eight years

6 Which TransMode Motorhome Upfitter

produced the most GMC Motorhomes? A - Coachmen B - Avion C - Foretravel (Read more in the Winter 2017 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 behind the wheel experience, we need you. We have the parking lot, cones, etc. but no instructor. Please consider leading the “Behind the Wheel” class and instructions. It is a class that really benefits our members and the GMC Community. Don’t be shy...contact Kim today!

...who love to be active. Volunteer to lead or help with: • crafts • choir director • musicians • tech presenters • non-tech presenters • bingo helpers • Pineblock Derby • kitchen help • 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!

SUMMER 2021

GMC MOTORHOMES INTERNATIONAL

>> Regional GMCMH Activities... >> Lexington, North Carolina – June 2021 The beautiful countryside surrounding Lexington was the gathering place for the GMC Dixielanders, GMC Sunshine Statesmen, and GMC Tidewater Crabs, plus guests. The GMCers gathered mid-week with twenty-four GMC Motorhomes and some SOBs (some other brands). Of the 60 attendees, we welcomed five new families joining us for their first rally, saluted the 94-year-old charter member Ray Bingham along with his coach and acknowledged folks from GMC Colonial Travelers and GMCMI! There were catered meals, visits to local restaurants, and excursions for tours of the RCR shop and museum (that’s Rick Childress Racing of NASCAR fame), and antiquing and other shopping downtown, plus a visit to the North Carolina Transportation Museum. Plenty of time was spent playing cards, fast track, sitting by the campfire making s’mores, and Bananas Foster. It’s so nice how everyone pitches in! The weather was fantastic with comfortable days and cool nights, plenty of sun, and beautiful sunsets. The pool was a busy place at the Crosswinds Family Campground. But the star of the show was the GMC Motorhome, and there were many beauties there to admire. Of course, there were plenty of discussions about its care and maintenance, and travel stories galore. What a wonderful time and wonderful people.

>> GMC Classics – June 2021

>> GMC Colonial Travelers – July 2021

We had a great time at Oakwood RV Resort in Fredericksburg, Texas. The “Western Style” mystery murder dinner theater on Saturday nite was especially enjoyable with all the colorful getups.

We held our second rally of the year at Quaker Woods Campground, Quakertown, PA Hosted by Ken and Janet Frey, the small (three motorhomes) but mighty group had a grand time. We enjoyed “kicking tires” of the two GMCs, short tours of the SOB (some other brand), a barbeque, and a unique breakfast.. On Saturday, we planned a midday “special meal” that allowed several associate members to attend and still be home before dark! Due to our small attendance and threatening weather, we decided to move to a local restaurant for our meal. We had our own room, excellent service, and could chat for hours with good food and cool temps. Remember, it’s not quantity, but quality that counts, and we had a fantastic group!

GMC VINTAGE RVING MAGAZINE | WWW.GMCMI.COM

>> GMC 49ers – July 2021

Due to the constantly changing of events during this time, please check the GMCMH Community Calendar for up-to-date information at: www.gmcmi.com/gmc-calendar/

What a great group of old and new friends gathered for our July Rolling Rally! The gathering spanned two weekends in two locations – Olema Campground in Olema, CA for 5 nights and Parkers Resort in Guerneville for 4 nights. It was a great mix of relaxation, exploration, food and fun.

GMCMH Events Calendar

WELCOME GMC Midwest Classics and GMC Six Wheelers who will be utilizing the GMCMI Fall Convention as a rally. 2021 Fall GMCMI Convention September 24-30, 2021 Chippewa Falls, Wisconsin

REGIONAL CHAPTER/CLUB OPPORTUNITY Consider utilizing one of the GMCMI Conventions as one of your rallies. Contact kimweeksgmc@gmail.com for more information.

>> GMC Six Wheelers – Two Rallies so far in 2021

April 22-28, 2022

Do Nothing Rally at Thomson Causeway Campground near Thomson, Illinois nestled between the Mighty Mississippi River and backwaters managed by the Army Corp of Engineers. The Joint Rally with the Western Vintage Trailer Group at Geneseo Campground in Geneseo, Illinois. Highlights were the the evening peek-a-boo event with the opportunity to ‘peek’ into each other’s rigs, and the open house event providing an opportunity to show off our coach and introduce our vintage coaches! We are looking forward to our rally at the GMCMI Convention in Chippewa Falls, Wisconsin!

GMCMI.com

GMCMI

LIPSE

CONVENTION April 3-9, 2024 Mineola, Texas

TO SUBMIT A RALLY DATE Email date and information to kimweeksgmc@ gmail.com

GMC Motorhome Trivia Answers (page 32) 1 - C General Motors Corp. 2 - The answer is all of them. 3 - C Dana Air Level 4 - C Palm Beach 5 - B Six Years, the premier issue was Fall of 2015 6 - A Coachmen

SUMMER 2021

GMC MOTORHOMES INTERNATIONAL

1214 N Jefferson Way, Ste 352 Indianola, IA 50125

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!