Would like advice

[rowdiebryan]

Hello everyone.  I have a question.  I researched class C RV's a little bit before I choose to search for an american clipper.  I found one, am in the process of buying it. I was told it was a 1979, turned out to be a 1977.  Other than that it is as they said it was goign to be.  Everything works, AC, genny, Fridge, and it is indeed a 440.  Asking price is 2000.00  Its about what I wanted, although I am in search of a radiator.  Body is straight, and in good shape, I mean, it does need some work, but this seems like a good deal.  Any one have any thoughts for me?  I am going to be looking for a roof ladder and some other odds and ends.

Thanks everyone for any thoughts.  I have pictures I can post.

REgards,


Bryan

[rowdiebryan]

Okay, I did it, I bought it.  Thanks everyone for the advice and input.. lol  now, where can I get an awning, and a roof ladder for it?

[JerryT]

Hi Bryan
Sorry I missed your post earlier I bought my Shademaker awnings from <RVWORKSHOP.COM> I found that a 13' awning will JUST fit. The cost is 597.00 to your door. Good quality, fits the coach well, easy to install. It seemed the right thing for an older coach as I found some that cost more than the coach is worth I also bought two little ones for the other two windows and glad I did! An extra $250 I think. My coach was also missing the ladder, and the luggage rack too, so it gave me the back window awning option. I decided that even though I liked the looks of the ladder I would get more function from the awning. I just used the escape hatch the few times I needed roof access. Another upshot was I got to fill more holes (water leaks) I also picked up a sunscreen and end panel from <arizonarvparts.com> The end panel stores inside and the main screen I just roll up with the awning, self storing.
I hope you enjoy your Clipper!
JerryT

[JerryT]

more pics

[rowdiebryan]

Jerry, Thank you for the info.  My little clipper needs the awning badly, but I have other thigns to do first.  I had a fuel leak, thats fixed.  I also have an oil leak and water leak.  Hope to have her on the road this week.  Once those were done I need to give her a tune up.  I have not used a timing light in MANY years.  I wonder if this would be easy to convert to HEI?  anyhow, thanks again, I am goign to start an online album, will keep you posted.

Bryan

Dallas texas

[JerryT]

 Hi Bryan
High Energy Ignition (HEI) has it's applications  but I don't think our old Clippers would get the same bang for the buck that a performance/race car would. Our Clippers have low compression, low rpm, de-tuned truck motors in them, keep in mind that a stock coil makes plenty of zap, spend your money on good plugs and wires and you will stay in the safe zone. A HOT/Performance tune-up may be ok in cool weather but pull up a long grade on a hot day with too much timing advance, can/will cause detination and over heating and thus motor rebuilds   The factory de-tunes for just such reasons, they know that dependabilty is what's important, not speed and ultra economy. I have timed my mopars the same way for many years, advance till I hear spark knock and then retard till I don't, engine hot on a hot day going up a hard grade with full throttle. By the way, these Dodge vans are a PITA to time with a light, good luck.
JerryT