[A/S] Re: new argosy member

["overlander_64" <overlander64@xxxxxxxxxxxxxx>]

Greetings Brenda!

Welcome to the world of Vintage Argosy ownership!

My suggestion would be to focus your efforts on those things that 
must be done in order to get the coach ready for RVing.  The 
restorationa/refurbishment process will be much less taxing if you 
can enjoy the coach while completing the restoration refurbishment 
tasks.  One good way to approach this type of goal is through a 
detailed analysis of what exists and where you want your coach to end 
up in terms of the restoration/refurbishment.

In broad terms, the first order of business is to insure that the 
coach's "foundation" is in good condition - - wheels, tires, brakes, 
bearings, shocks, axles - - then the frame, outriggers, and floor.  
The second order of business would then be to inspect your appliances 
(hiring an experience RV LP Appliance Technician could pay dividends 
in my experience) - - furnace, water heater, range/oven, gas light 
(if so equipped), LP tanks for proper OPD valves (if your tanks are 
the optional Aluminum variety it will be well worth the investment in 
the new OPD valves, if, however, they are the base steel tanks you 
may find new steel tanks to be more economical), condition of LP Gas 
regulator - - then electrical such as PAR water pump, Univolt, vent 
fans (ceiling, range, bathroom), light fixtures (interior and 
exterior), battery, breakaway switch (safety device on hitch), and 
electric tongue jack (if so equipped).  The third order of business 
would be to check the water system - - condition of fresh water tank, 
water supply lines, water faucet sets, city water inlet operation, 
water filter (if so equipped); waste water systems - - condition of 
black and gray water holding tanks, condition of drain lines, and 
condition/operation of dump valves.  The fourth order would then be 
the cosmetic issues such as interior/exterior finishes, 
upholstery/foam, floor coverings, etc.  The one maintenance point 
that may need attention is the front/rear domes where the material is 
galvanized steel - - if the paint is peeling or flaking, the best 
approach is to attend to it immediately to avoid the potential for 
rust formation.

I am following this process with my Minuet.  It was back on the road 
just a few months after purchase.  I am not a do-it-yourselfer, so 
most of my projects were contracted out.  For that first season, the 
water heater, Univolt, battery, and tires were replaced along with 
new OPD valves on the original aluminum LP tanks and a new LP 
regulator so that I could get acquainted with the coach.  Prior to 
the second year, the coach was treated to an interior 
restoration/refurbishment by Fowler Interiors of Symsonia, KY as well 
as a new water pump and Thetford Bravura toilet.  Then, just before 
the third year, it was axle replacement time with new shocks as well 
as new permanently mounted BAL stabilizer jacks.  The "To-Do" list 
still includes new paint for the exterior, new ZIP Dee curbside patio 
awning as well as two window awning sets.  Through all of the 
refurbishment/restoration processes on the coahc, it was only out of 
service for about three months - - the balance of the time it has 
been free to follow my tow vehicle when I don't want or need to tow 
the 26' 8" Overlander.

Good luck with your Argosy!

Kevin D. Allen
WBCCI/VAC/Free Wheelers/Computer Club #6359
1964 Overlander International/1999 GMC K2500 Suburban (7400 
VORTEC/4.10 Differentials)
1978 Argosy Minuet 6.0 Metre/1975 Cadillac Edlorado Convertible (8.2 
Liter V8/2.70 Final Drive)