Newbie here w a rockin 94 ElDorado!

[alex5160]

Just picked up a 28' Class C ElDorado from my In Laws for 6k. Has 40k miles on it, inside looks awesome, Ford 350 chassis is in Great shape (paint perfect, no rust underneath) everything works fine... Drove it from Boron, CA to Brockport, NY with NO PROBELMS. Right now I am removing the stripes because the vehicle sat out in the desert in CA for 4 years and are badly faded. Looking to see what parts are available out there specifically for these beasts! Alas... nothing!!! Darn it all! Almost enough to bail out after having it for 30 days! Had no idea. Not that I need anything right now, but just in case...?

Anyone know of any suppliers out there that might have coach parts laying around?

ALSO doesnt look like a lot of activity on this site... WHATS WRONG PEOPLE! LETS GET SOCIALBLE ALREADY! (hahahaha)

Alex

[jordan]

Alex;Had any luck finding a parts source for your coach?.Im just about to take the plunge into one of these rv's myself.Its not coming from a relative or anything like that,its just a low priced 30' class c thyat seems (on the surface) that ,even though they dont make em anymor that the parts for most of it are interchangeable with most rv's still being made.
Get in touch and maybe we can tag team any problems,Jordan ,Norwalk Ct.

[alex5160]

Jordan, what I have been able to do so far is a lot of improvisation. If I need something, I scour the internet and come up w something or at least something close that can be 're-engineered'. So far my updates have been cosmetic. I had 4 years of oxidation on it so I started cleaning/buffing the entire thing which brought out the original Almond color. It took me and entire day to clean the oxidation and hard water spots from the front stainless steel wheel covers, as well as the front bumper too, which was quite an effort! I painted the plastic portion of the front bumper a satin black and after waxing the cab, the front of the camper looks brand new. I was very satisfied w the results after a few weekends really focusing on it with a lot of elbow grease.
I buffed the rear bumper and repainted the hitch and spare tire mount. I then began the long process of removing the faded graphics with a heat gun… this will take a while… Plan on replacing next spring (I hope). I also painted the faded yellow plastics around the outside of the camper. This included the fridge access panel and some other assorted parts. Also painted the AC housing on the inside white to match the décor, as it too had yellowed over the years.
So that’s the plan. One thing at a time, paint and cleaning. I really love this vehicle. It’s my first so I’m doing everything I can to give it an updated look. Next spring we’ll put on a new awning, replace one window, and add new graphics.
We’re storing it inside a heated facility for the winter. The winters here can be extreme and this is the best way to protect our investment. Take care and post some pics when you get yours!

[jordan]

Alex;Thanks for ghetting back so quick.The cosmetic stuff seems like it will be easier than any tricky mechanical gremlins that may pop up.I plan on sending out an oil sample and making sure everything is ok with the engine.This is cheap ins which comes highly recommended.What kind of gas mileage are you getting?.Jordan

[alex5160]

THAT is a good idea! I had mine looked at by a mechanic before I drove it back. Asked him go over it w a fine toothed comb. Was glad I did a little research before I committed to it.

The biggest expense so far was having to get new tires. The coach sat out in the desert sun for 4 years (90-105 degrees everyday). The tires had been weathered to a point of not being safe. I had new tires put on for $1,000. OUCH!

But when I called around to a few other places for tire quotes, I was getting quotes for 2,000. So 1,000 wasnt too bad, but a big expense right from the start! I did it anyways because I plan on really using this thing w the family in the years ahead. $1,000 for some memories? Ya, I'll pay that! Worth rolling the dice for!

[alex5160]

To answer your question, prob 6-8 miles per gallon.

[df85732]

Hey guys. Just joined this Forum because a purchased a 1996 El Dorado 26', 41000 miles. I did not do much research before so I got what I got. It is in really good shape but has been neglected for a few years. My biggest issue is water damage and de-lamination in the drivers rear corner. Anyway enough of my problems. Have you found any good resources for parts by now. Just let me know. I hope to post some pictures and update my experience as time goes on. Thanks for the help.

[alex5160]

Awesome! I was thinking I had the last one in existence LOL! After 2 years of waiting, someone comes up with another! Congrats! Hows the interior look? IS you'rs the Red or Blue? Mine is Blue and was in great shape. Other than having to caulk a little around some windows, it's a tight ship. Everything still works too. You asked about parts... have not found a source yet. I wish I had one too. The company went out of business years ago and parts are hard to find, even on ebay. But, there are many ways to imporvise and be creative as I have had to do. You can also ask your local RV dealer/repair shop for help. Post some pics when you can, would love a tour!.. Alex Brockport, NY

[df85732]

Sorry I took so long to answer but I thought I would be notified thru my email. Guess not or are there settings I need to change. Any way thanks for the information. My interior is Blue. Still in pretty good shape. Been going thru the old girl, making a list. Will be a slow process but should be fun. I'll let you know if I have any questions. Thanks again.

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