Location: Bethune, SC
(165.166.72.232) | Is this an extended coach by Barth? What is the Production Number? Last true FMC was made in 1976?
Are you very mechanically inclined? Are you in good health?
Even though this coach is low mileage, you will more than likely have to go through each system on the coach with a fine tooth comb to have a reliable coach. Mechanical systems are unique and parts are not listed in any parts store. While the engine is a Chrysler 440, it is the industrial version. I bought a coach, #254, with about the same mileage for $2,000, I will have well over $10,000 in it before it even hits the road, including relocation towing expenses, and I feel it is a good buy.
I have another coach with over 100,000 miles on it that is in excellent condition, new engine, transmission, 5 figure paint job, designer interior, 22.5" Michelin tires ($860 ea when you can find them) for which I paid about $10,000. It cost about $4,000 to have the auto AC system rebuilt. Great coach.
Finally, I just bought a decent coach for a fair price that I drove home, about fifty miles. Drove well, ran like a rocket ship, needs minor work, and tires, but is promising. That is after I replace the transmission that blew the reverse band when I tried to back it into my garage.
My plans are to rebuild two for my children.
In the middle of all this, I was diagnosed with Stage 3+ prostate cancer. Thankfully, it looks like radiation treatment has taken care of that, but has taken my energy down a few levels.
I rent a former Ryder truck rental garage that easily holds all three, plus a boat. An indoor facility is a real plus. This one is has drive through bays as well.
I will do about 50% of the work myself to make these coaches exceptional. I will direct skilled mechanics in the rest.
You are fare better off to buy a coach in excellent shape than you are to buy one that needs 'TLC.' You will be getting the restoration at about ten to twenty cents on the dollar, at most.
Even if cost is not an issue, finding a good common sense mechanic at any price is no easy task.
The coach you are looking at sounds like a good starting point if you want to take that route. If it has the Budd split ring 17" rims, one piece 19.5 rims will cost about $150 a piece. Brakes will definitely need work to bring them up to par. Cylinder seals and booster diaphragms are probably dry and brittle. Generator - carb rebuild at a minimum and tuning. Engine (?) Transmission (?) Shocks (?) Cooling system (???) AC ($$$$)
If you like 70's colors, and will accept the interior, major cost savings.
My estimate would be from $3,000 to $5,000, depending on how far you had to tow it.
Good luck,
Henry |
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