Watch our previous video where we purchased this beauty! th-cam.com/video/DsWGuW2H4pA/w-d-xo.html It was a bit hectic, but we figured it out in the end 😅
Reconsider the placement of the solar setup location. Especially if you are thinking of batteries there. The weight distribution of heavy batteries should really go over the rear axel. Placing heavy batteries too far back will cause driving issues. And if you are going to invest in solar, invest in lithium batteries.
Love it! So excited for you guys! Looks like a big project but lots of fun too! You could name it something to stick with the leprechaun theme like Lucky or Wee Man the camping van.
Hi guys! It really made me feel good that you brought up that the Nelle had been in my family for 3 generations! We all took the best care of her, that we could. She was stored in a garage for most of the first 40 years and we had a cover for her, when we got her. Wishing you safe travels and Blessed adventures!
Not part of her charm - all of it in my opinion! Yes, do updates of necessary items, but not major style changes. Sorry to be so negative, and I know I am a year late, but I know many people with old units who would have *loved* to have all those parts being removed, who would have lived with and loved those quirky features!
Before you tear out the cabinet where your refrigerator is Bare in mind cabinets like that are structural they are support in the side-to-side motion of the motorhome body.
I may be a bit late in posting this, but bearing in mind the colour, the period, etc...my immediate thought for a name was Velma - as in Scooby Doo ! 😃🙌
Beautiful vintage camper! I would be careful taking out the fridge area because it is more than likely part of roof support. Another gal on TH-cam took some of the upright support cabinets out of a vintage camper and she had wall and roof support problems.
A couple of suggestions if I may: 1. Obviously do the engine and mechanical work first. 2. Then, take a short trip before doing the other work. This will hopefully prevent a breakdown on the road. It will also either confirm or change the work you're thinking of doing on the inside. Lastly if inside things work, you can save the money until you're ready.
Hi, I'm new to your channel, but I'm a huge car nut, and I recommend getting some kind of modern GM V8 engine and transmission combo, like the ones you find in late 2000s Suburbans and Silverados. Those LS and LT engines are effectively Chevy Small Block 350s, but modernized. They're way better designed than your typical Chevy 350, and they're also much lighter, if you get the aluminum block versions. They produce a lot more power and torque as well, so if you mate them to the right transmission, your supposed 350 EFI fuel savings will get bigger still. Hope this helps. Can't wait to see the end result! :)
Definitely agree. A junkyard LS swap with transmission will be a far better choice in the long run. If that's not possible then Holley bolt on fuel injection cant be beat.
I agree with Mark, for the cost and the reliability you can’t beat going to a more modern drive train. You can usually pick up full running engine and transmission combos from a junk yard very affordable. Some will install for a reasonable fee. You will get much better fuel efficiency and usually a better gearing on the transmission which will also help improve fuel economy as well! Just remember at the end of it, this is yours. No matter what anyone says make it your own!! Enjoy the adventure!
I concur and I never reply to comments. :) Dropping $1K to inject a 45 year old 350? No way. If you're planning on keeping this thing and driving it places then you need to be able to count on it. We're on RV #2 and there's nothing worse than getting stuck miles from nowhere, looking at huge repair bills. Do what Marc says and look for a crate engine swap. You will not regret the extra money spent.
As other have said, you'd be way smarter to do an engine or engine/transmission swap to a more modern 350 than to try to graft on a fuel-injection system on the old block. You'd likely never get it running right, you'd probably have to change the whole ignition system and add a computer module to synch all the ignition fuel injection activity. and even if you got that all fight, the cam profile would likely be wrong for the fuel injection. You could very well end of with a poorly running system that get much worse mileage. In any case, engine swap or not, you'll want to have the fuel tank and line professionally cleaned before proceeding with carb or fuel injection work.
YOU GUYYSSS!!! I absolutely LOVE IT!! The colour (outside and in) is amazing! Matches Allison’s hair 😆 that bathroom wallpaper is a VIIBBE!! Actually love it.. and all of the original features! So stoked to see what you guys do with it!! Brilliant amount of space 🥳
I would never get rid of the refrigerator if it works. The cabinet IS part of the structure and makeup of that unit. Don't just tear stuff out Willie nillie. ( as others have stated).
I hope you plan on keeping it original as much as you can. My first thought was "boy, how beautiful she will look with some work". But then I thought "this baby is in such great shape, it would be a shame to change the interior!" Maybe a paint job on the outside, but the most important part is the mechanics.
From your video, it does sound like you are going into this with your eyes open. And, you are going about it the proper way. Before you invest a ton on changing to fuel injection, PLEASE make sure you get a compression test. These gaskets are OLD!!!! And to replace gaskets can be a killer. You might want to consider a whole re-built engine. (But then you need to investigate the condition of the transmission. Still like my idea of "Adelle the Adventurer" I am somewhat contused, are you planning on taking this on the road this summer? It so do the renovation in baby steps. The WORSE would be if you go on the road, and need major drive train work. As I said in my prior comment. Good Luck with this. I am sure if you post question on your channel, lots of people will give you suggestions. (And some might even be good ones.)
Oh my Lord, it has a CB radio! Boy, does that take me back. "Catch you on the flip flop!" I don't think any vehicle from the 70's lacked a CB radio and their main purpose was to avoid getting a speeding ticket from "smokies."
Omg.. I haven't heard that CB terminology since I was a teen! Used to take rides across the USA with my step dad and listen in while he talked trucker lingo to the other truckers and RV'rs!!! Good times😁 Can't wait to hear what y'all name her!
@@cjcj6945 Those were the days when huge antennae were waving off of vehicles and under the car's front dashboard it looked as if a whole radio station was located. My dad loved CB radios and even if we were making a short trip into town, the whole family would have to listen to "breaker, breaker," "come in breaker!" And if there weren't any "smokies" ahead, then dad could "put his pedal to the metal." Every one had a "handle," which was always something ridiculous like "Sugar Daddy" or "Bad Mama." It's a wonder any of us survived the 70s to tell about them later. "Catch you on the flip flop."
And I remember "breaker one-nine," but I can't exactly remember what it means. I think it means if anyone is within listening range, would they please "come in."
Sometimes the most unexpected thing turns out to be a new adventure....good luck with the camper reno. Looking forward to seeing all the progress and touring America!
I have a great idea for you channel/for your RV. There are a ton of TH-camrs that could help you with your project. You can travel to California and have Chris Salomone from the @FourEyes channel help with one woodworking project. Go up to where Woodworking for Mere Mortals lives and have him help with a project. Travel to Saskatchewan and have @TheDetailGeek detail the RV. Then head to Colorado to have @thewoodwhisperer help with something. Then go all the way to New Jersey and have @Chrisfix help with some of your RV mechanic upgrades.
It's so funny I found your channel a week ago with everything going on and the problems with travelling. But this is a great idea that RV is really cool and I'm really excited to see how it turns out. If I were you I'd hit every national park I could it that thing!
Do NOT remove the refrigerator wood cabinet, it supports the ROOF. The heavyweight A.C. on the roof will collapse the ROOF. Then you can junk it. How do I know this, look at all the long windows ( that provides NO support).
I bought a vintage Class C 5 years ago, very much like the layout and condition of yours. I made some significant improvements like the ones you're talking about. I replaced the living room chairs and folding table with a countertop desk on filing cabinets on the one side. I love facing out the window when I work/write. And on the opposite wall, under the old scissor couch was a 40 gallon fresh water tank and water heater, so I just built a 30" bed around it all with a top to flip up for storage underneath and an 8" Thermal Foam mattress on top. You're going to quickly find out that you need lots of storage. You'll take way too much stuff with you and end up with less stuff as you go The biggest and most satisfying improvement was in the bathroom. I removed the crappy toilet and the tiny sink and built a composting toilet that cost me a whopping $40 to build. It utilizes a funnel-like device called a urine separator (you can make your own out of a proper sized stainless steel bowl from the housewares dept. and a stubby short PVC drain pipe from the plumbing dept.) attached to the whole lid which flips up. I have a long standard toilet seat on top. Very comfortable. And in the front I use a 2-1/2 gallon dog food storage container from Walmart that I cut a hole into to accommodate the stubby drain pipe. You only need it to go in 1/2inch in the removeable top for the urine to flow into in the front, and I use a 5 gallon bucket with a simple garbage bag behind it. Instead of flushing/using precious water, you simply get a package of pine or cedar pet bedding material (I keep it in another of the 2-1/2 gallon container) and sprinkle it on top of the dooty when you go. The simple idea is to separate the urine from the dooty. It's way better tah what you have in every way. It is far less smelly than that black tank odor that permeates the RV. Plus, I only have to bag it up and throw it in the dumpster about every 3-4 weeks, whereas before, I had that awful task of emptying that smelly, unsanitary black tank every week. Now I just pour the urine down any convenient drain about once a week. I always pour a cup of Fabuloso, which you can buy in gallon jugs from Walmart, into the urine tank, and it really makes everything smell nice and makes cleaning easier. You'll find that the reason they left the layers of carpeting is because the floor isn't insulated and it is cold if it's cold outside. Not frun. Other big improvements I made was an insulated blackout curtain that I can open between the cab and living area because the cab is cold, cold, cold, and hot, hot , hot, and expensive to heat. The curtain makes it so cozy and beautiful and it really cuts down the drafts. I also bought a fabulous cabinet style 1500 watt electric heater from Heat4Less/Home Comfort which pumps out a lot of thermostatically controlled heat very quietly. It's on wheels and takes up a bit more than a square foot of floor space but I keep it right where you'd step into the cab and it's not in the way. When I'm moving, I just push it under the desk I built. Finally, the Dometic refrigerator you have is very, very efficient, and it runs on electric, gas, and 12volt DC. So if it's working good, I highly recommend you keep it. I've been living in my RV, travelling all around the country for the last 4 years and I LOVE IT! P.S. I know a lot of people in RVs like to have pets. I humbly submit that pets are a very disruptive, concerning, distracting, and worrisome presence in a small RV. So I highly recommend you carefully consider against bringing an animal with you. Good Luck on your journey.
You have so much to learn and I find this restoration exciting. Don't call it to much of a challenge until you try your hardest. Feel like you will make such a beautiful rv. I subscribed.
Can not wait for this series of videos! Love camper renovations! Will be great to see the end result 😍 Here’s to your awesome adventures in this “money pit” ❤️
Roof integrity is huge, make sure no leaks and seal it it well. Also these are built as a unit so everything is structurally important. Mechanical reliability is what will make it fun so that's where a lot of funds will go.
It's like you're being transported via a 1970s portal. Just need to add a mirrored disco ball to the roof... Endless Adventure: The Trailer Trash Years...
A chev 350 from a 87-92 truck, van, suburban etc will bolt right in and they have fuel injection and plus the computer controls the ignition timing. They are a simple TBI setup and it’s a easy swap. You could probably fine a whole truck for less then $700
Name your camper “Flo” . You know that old lady flow from the diner show. Does your truck have two gas tanks? Is that why you had that strange encounter when you first filled it up. Some old campers like that have two gas tanks Mike
Hey Mike...had to chuckle when I read your comment:) That is exactly what I named my '83 Coachman Leprechaun. Named her after my grandmother (Florence) which also is my middle name. Going on my 4th summer with the ole girl!
My '84 mini motorhome has thick, brown, original carpeting and it's staying, for the very reason you say. Also, it's comfy underfoot and you don't slide around like on modern flooring.
Haha I'm feeling so old. Yes lap seat belts were a thing. They were in most vehicles from the 70's when seat belts were optional.😄 Sounds like a some great improvements you have planned. -Shawna🍁
This is amazing. Can’t wait to see more videos on this where you do it up etc. Really looking forward to it. Love all your videos watched every single one since pretty much the beginning but first comment :).
I had the same RV, I think mine was an 82, but I can't remember. I remodeled it and spent almost $10,000 on renovations over a few years. Not money well spent I must say. It was my first RV and enjoyed fixing it up, however I had major problems with the transmission (replaced 2x) and engine. New tanks, new bed, new a/c, in hindsight I wish I had never purchased it. Good luck to you, I hope you have a better time of it than I did.
Congrats!!! Y’all are young, go for it! So wish my hubby and I were able to travel like y’all. Check out Trent and Allie as they are doing a renovation on a travel trailer and have great ideas and do great work. Blessings.
wow, what a time machine, thats is great shape for its age. have not seen one that good in decades, the efi conversion is a good idea, 350 chev is the most easily upgraded motor ever, a transmison would be another consideration...lots of luck, the old girl is why i subscribed, love vintage rvs
😂 I am 45 and definitively not in mint condition anymore either! I think it will be fun renovating her and seeing the end results what you end up keeping, from the original built!
Sometimes, the youtube recommended viewing algorithms get it right! Congrats, from a fellow vintage Coachmen Leprechaun owner. (1980 GMC) Looking forward to following your restoration progress and following your rv adventures!
It's so nice to seeing you so happy about the RV. I thought about Hervé for the name as it's how you pronounce the letter RV in French :P I was wondering for the bed part, would it be too much to add a sort of collapsible/retractable roof, you know like you can do on some caravans to give more height to sleep but back to normal when you drive? I am so looking forward to seeing all the changes :D x
Be very gentle when cleaning the knobs on the stove. I grew up in a house built in the 60's and the numbers on the dials will wipe off easily with the strong cleaners we have today. She looks very cute and she will be perfect for you two. Please, please wear a N95 mask when you start ripping things up in the RV. You will exposing yourselves to materials that are decades old.
It's just an old motorhome. You can put lipstick on a pig, and at the end of the day... it's still a pig. Love how you think ppl really care ...they don't!
WOW she is fabulous.. I loved the quick peek at names, Gladys popped out to me, So I would like to offer up my name suggestion.. Gladys McCamper.. Sounds like a teacher from the 70's.. Best of luck to you both and 'Gladys' too.. Happy wanderings.. Best wishes from Wales ..
I can’t believe y’all mutilated this beautiful time capsule. You could’ve chosen one that was in need of it’s interior being ripped out and let this go to someone who preserves beautiful things instead of ruining them. What a shame.
Our opinion is to hook up the CB radio. We've been RV'ing for 18 years and find the CB to be indispensable. When things are fine: it's of zero use. But when there is an accident or construction, the CB helps you move into the proper lane or gain some situational awareness from the truckers. Plus, the occasional language is at least entertaining...
Forgot to mention Luvvies; some folk regret top loading fridges. Say you are constantly "digging" to get to items on the bottom. Also harder to keep organized. Bon Chance!
Had a 1974 chevy nova with the 350 engine. Drove it over 10 years with no major engine problems, but transmission gave out. Bought it because 1974 was the last year before they started putting alot of emission controls on cars.
SO excited about this! I’ve been following you guys for a while & love your content and also have a travel trailer. Now I have a one stop shop for viewing. ;) We love RVing to the national parks and getting close to nature! Looking forward to your new adventures! .....Also, super smart way for you guys to keep the travel videos going during the craziness! WTG!
Watch our previous video where we purchased this beauty! th-cam.com/video/DsWGuW2H4pA/w-d-xo.html It was a bit hectic, but we figured it out in the end 😅
Reconsider the placement of the solar setup location.
Especially if you are thinking of batteries there. The weight distribution of heavy batteries should really go over the rear axel. Placing heavy batteries too far back will cause driving issues.
And if you are going to invest in solar, invest in lithium batteries.
Can't wait to see your desk setup in the Leprechaun!
What think of the protest in USA?
Love it. What a great idea of how to travel and love all the ideas about solar panels.
Hit me up whenever you in stl mo. Roll on
Love it! So excited for you guys! Looks like a big project but lots of fun too! You could name it something to stick with the leprechaun theme like Lucky or Wee Man the camping van.
Hi guys! It really made me feel good that you brought up that the Nelle had been in my family for 3 generations! We all took the best care of her, that we could. She was stored in a garage for most of the first 40 years and we had a cover for her, when we got her. Wishing you safe travels and Blessed adventures!
Be careful of potential asbestos when tearing things apart.
Or just put flooring over it.
And formaldehyde...
That lino flooring glue will likely be asbestos based!
It’s not anthrax....relax
That lanolium probably has asbestos and has to be taken out professionally (hazardous dust/gas), probably why they left it.
She is so cute and vintage, don’t completely destroy the 70s vibe she has , it’s part of her charm.
Do people buy vintage and then take out what makes it vintage???? Enjoyed the video and have to binge watch the rest
Not part of her charm - all of it in my opinion!
Yes, do updates of necessary items, but not major style changes.
Sorry to be so negative, and I know I am a year late, but I know many people with old units who would have *loved* to have all those parts being removed, who would have lived with and loved those quirky features!
Before you tear out the cabinet where your refrigerator is Bare in mind cabinets like that are structural they are support in the side-to-side motion of the motorhome body.
And just about everyone that changes over to those chest fridges regret it
Great point there!
Check out video of Home Town that renovation show. They used a guy in Mississippi out side of Laurel, to renovate their new RV.
Yep, all the vertical stuff like that cabinet is structural, supports the roof too. Propane refrigerators are very useful boon docking.
“BEAR” in mind.... not BARE in mind....
I look forward to seeing this thing restored . I think y’all did right by buying this thing 👍😀
we do tooo!
I may be a bit late in posting this, but bearing in mind the colour, the period, etc...my immediate thought for a name was Velma - as in Scooby Doo ! 😃🙌
YES!! I'm un subscribing if the don't name her Velma. Lol
Beautiful vintage camper! I would be careful taking out the fridge area because it is more than likely part of roof support. Another gal on TH-cam took some of the upright support cabinets out of a vintage camper and she had wall and roof support problems.
A couple of suggestions if I may: 1. Obviously do the engine and mechanical work first. 2. Then, take a short trip before doing the other work. This will hopefully prevent a breakdown on the road. It will also either confirm or change the work you're thinking of doing on the inside. Lastly if inside things work, you can save the money until you're ready.
Hi, I'm new to your channel, but I'm a huge car nut, and I recommend getting some kind of modern GM V8 engine and transmission combo, like the ones you find in late 2000s Suburbans and Silverados. Those LS and LT engines are effectively Chevy Small Block 350s, but modernized. They're way better designed than your typical Chevy 350, and they're also much lighter, if you get the aluminum block versions. They produce a lot more power and torque as well, so if you mate them to the right transmission, your supposed 350 EFI fuel savings will get bigger still.
Hope this helps. Can't wait to see the end result! :)
Definitely agree. A junkyard LS swap with transmission will be a far better choice in the long run. If that's not possible then Holley bolt on fuel injection cant be beat.
I agree with Mark, for the cost and the reliability you can’t beat going to a more modern drive train. You can usually pick up full running engine and transmission combos from a junk yard very affordable. Some will install for a reasonable fee. You will get much better fuel efficiency and usually a better gearing on the transmission which will also help improve fuel economy as well! Just remember at the end of it, this is yours. No matter what anyone says make it your own!! Enjoy the adventure!
I concur and I never reply to comments. :) Dropping $1K to inject a 45 year old 350? No way. If you're planning on keeping this thing and driving it places then you need to be able to count on it. We're on RV #2 and there's nothing worse than getting stuck miles from nowhere, looking at huge repair bills. Do what Marc says and look for a crate engine swap. You will not regret the extra money spent.
As other have said, you'd be way smarter to do an engine or engine/transmission swap to a more modern 350 than to try to graft on a fuel-injection system on the old block. You'd likely never get it running right, you'd probably have to change the whole ignition system and add a computer module to synch all the ignition fuel injection activity. and even if you got that all fight, the cam profile would likely be wrong for the fuel injection. You could very well end of with a poorly running system that get much worse mileage. In any case, engine swap or not, you'll want to have the fuel tank and line professionally cleaned before proceeding with carb or fuel injection work.
Wow awesome advice! Im all about the MPG
I’ll be honest. You guys actually have an amazing fridge. It gets super cold.
It would be worth talking to other van renovators like Wild We Roam for some advice...
YOU GUYYSSS!!! I absolutely LOVE IT!! The colour (outside and in) is amazing! Matches Allison’s hair 😆 that bathroom wallpaper is a VIIBBE!! Actually love it.. and all of the original features! So stoked to see what you guys do with it!! Brilliant amount of space 🥳
Omiword
U are sooooo right, it matches 😂🤣
I would never get rid of the refrigerator if it works. The cabinet
IS part of the structure and makeup of that unit. Don't just tear stuff out
Willie nillie. ( as others have stated).
Kits are available to convert exiting gas to compressor fridge'
I hope you plan on keeping it original as much as you can. My first thought was "boy, how beautiful she will look with some work". But then I thought "this baby is in such great shape, it would be a shame to change the interior!" Maybe a paint job on the outside, but the most important part is the mechanics.
I recommend hooking up the CB, its great for inclement weather or adverse road conditions.
From your video, it does sound like you are going into this with your eyes open. And, you are going about it the proper way. Before you invest a ton on changing to fuel injection, PLEASE make sure you get a compression test. These gaskets are OLD!!!! And to replace gaskets can be a killer. You might want to consider a whole re-built engine. (But then you need to investigate the condition of the transmission. Still like my idea of "Adelle the Adventurer"
I am somewhat contused, are you planning on taking this on the road this summer? It so do the renovation in baby steps. The WORSE would be if you go on the road, and need major drive train work.
As I said in my prior comment. Good Luck with this. I am sure if you post question on your channel, lots of people will give you suggestions. (And some might even be good ones.)
This is awesome advice. U yu pi don’t want to invest all that money in a bad engine. Maybe cheaper in the long run To replace the engine all together
When something brings you this much joy it can never be a mistake... Have fun shaping it into your dream caravan and enjoy the ride!!! 😉👍❤
Exactly 👍💕
Yes! Sometimes things are worth taking a chance on!
Uhm, never let your enthusiasm overwhelm common sense...😉
very true!
Hook up the CB radio! That will be so much fun when on the road! And in emergency you can call for help!
If you're replacing a lot of parts, you can always call her Cher...
😂😂😊😊 mean, but true
😆👍
I like Cher, though.
....lol to funny
EddyBlacks I laughed way too much at this!
Lmao
04:29 I would keep that wallpaper and name it the “Mayflower”
Oh my Lord, it has a CB radio! Boy, does that take me back. "Catch you on the flip flop!" I don't think any vehicle from the 70's lacked a CB radio and their main purpose was to avoid getting a speeding ticket from "smokies."
Omg..
I haven't heard that CB terminology since I was a teen! Used to take rides across the USA with my step dad and listen in while he talked trucker lingo to the other truckers and RV'rs!!! Good times😁 Can't wait to hear what y'all name her!
@@cjcj6945 Those were the days when huge antennae were waving off of vehicles and under the car's front dashboard it looked as if a whole radio station was located. My dad loved CB radios and even if we were making a short trip into town, the whole family would have to listen to "breaker, breaker," "come in breaker!" And if there weren't any "smokies" ahead, then dad could "put his pedal to the metal." Every one had a "handle," which was always something ridiculous like "Sugar Daddy" or "Bad Mama." It's a wonder any of us survived the 70s to tell about them later. "Catch you on the flip flop."
And I remember "breaker one-nine," but I can't exactly remember what it means. I think it means if anyone is within listening range, would they please "come in."
We got a mighty convoy ...
@@faithfulforever6331 it means you wish to "break in" to the conversation on channel 19, which was/is the primary trucker channel.
A compost toilet may not be the best bet here. However all your other updates sound great. Cannot wait to see it!
You can build a good composting toilet on your own and save $1,000
That puppy of a beast even sounds like it is 'popping and puffing' around in vintage style too!!! 😀
😆😂👍👍 True! 😍
Call your rig “Gold Digger” 😆
Camper McCamperface - sorry too obvious
Cathy, Mary, Daisy, Goldie ... she’s just a happy Ray of su sunshine! Maybe Ray?
Sometimes the most unexpected thing turns out to be a new adventure....good luck with the camper reno. Looking forward to seeing all the progress and touring America!
Io
Ioi
I have a great idea for you channel/for your RV. There are a ton of TH-camrs that could help you with your project. You can travel to California and have Chris Salomone from the @FourEyes channel help with one woodworking project. Go up to where Woodworking for Mere Mortals lives and have him help with a project. Travel to Saskatchewan and have @TheDetailGeek detail the RV. Then head to Colorado to have @thewoodwhisperer help with something. Then go all the way to New Jersey and have @Chrisfix help with some of your RV mechanic upgrades.
Awesome idea!!!😊 Would make for great episodes!!!
Can't wait for the RV series! You guys rock!
Why?
In the winter, those windows will allow wind and snow INSIDE. Will be IMPOSSIBLE TO HEAT.
REPLACE ALL THE WINDOWS.
It's so funny I found your channel a week ago with everything going on and the problems with travelling. But this is a great idea that RV is really cool and I'm really excited to see how it turns out. If I were you I'd hit every national park I could it that thing!
Do NOT remove the refrigerator wood cabinet, it supports the ROOF. The heavyweight A.C. on the roof will collapse the ROOF. Then you can junk it.
How do I know this, look at all the long windows ( that provides NO support).
I highly recommend hooking up the c.b.,helped us out in Tennessee when some trucker's got in a wreck infront of us our first year out.
Yes!!! You'll always have another set of ears and eyes when you need it!👍
Yes! surprisingly many dead zones all over the country. Although, I assume you'll be adding a WIFI booster
I bought a vintage Class C 5 years ago, very much like the layout and condition of yours. I made some significant improvements like the ones you're talking about. I replaced the living room chairs and folding table with a countertop desk on filing cabinets on the one side. I love facing out the window when I work/write. And on the opposite wall, under the old scissor couch was a 40 gallon fresh water tank and water heater, so I just built a 30" bed around it all with a top to flip up for storage underneath and an 8" Thermal Foam mattress on top.
You're going to quickly find out that you need lots of storage. You'll take way too much stuff with you and end up with less stuff as you go
The biggest and most satisfying improvement was in the bathroom. I removed the crappy toilet and the tiny sink and built a composting toilet that cost me a whopping $40 to build. It utilizes a funnel-like device called a urine separator (you can make your own out of a proper sized stainless steel bowl from the housewares dept. and a stubby short PVC drain pipe from the plumbing dept.) attached to the whole lid which flips up. I have a long standard toilet seat on top. Very comfortable. And in the front I use a 2-1/2 gallon dog food storage container from Walmart that I cut a hole into to accommodate the stubby drain pipe. You only need it to go in 1/2inch in the removeable top for the urine to flow into in the front, and I use a 5 gallon bucket with a simple garbage bag behind it. Instead of flushing/using precious water, you simply get a package of pine or cedar pet bedding material (I keep it in another of the 2-1/2 gallon container) and sprinkle it on top of the dooty when you go. The simple idea is to separate the urine from the dooty. It's way better tah what you have in every way. It is far less smelly than that black tank odor that permeates the RV. Plus, I only have to bag it up and throw it in the dumpster about every 3-4 weeks, whereas before, I had that awful task of emptying that smelly, unsanitary black tank every week. Now I just pour the urine down any convenient drain about once a week. I always pour a cup of Fabuloso, which you can buy in gallon jugs from Walmart, into the urine tank, and it really makes everything smell nice and makes cleaning easier.
You'll find that the reason they left the layers of carpeting is because the floor isn't insulated and it is cold if it's cold outside. Not frun.
Other big improvements I made was an insulated blackout curtain that I can open between the cab and living area because the cab is cold, cold, cold, and hot, hot , hot, and expensive to heat. The curtain makes it so cozy and beautiful and it really cuts down the drafts.
I also bought a fabulous cabinet style 1500 watt electric heater from Heat4Less/Home Comfort which pumps out a lot of thermostatically controlled heat very quietly. It's on wheels and takes up a bit more than a square foot of floor space but I keep it right where you'd step into the cab and it's not in the way. When I'm moving, I just push it under the desk I built.
Finally, the Dometic refrigerator you have is very, very efficient, and it runs on electric, gas, and 12volt DC. So if it's working good, I highly recommend you keep it.
I've been living in my RV, travelling all around the country for the last 4 years and I LOVE IT!
P.S. I know a lot of people in RVs like to have pets. I humbly submit that pets are a very disruptive, concerning, distracting, and worrisome presence in a small RV. So I highly recommend you carefully consider against bringing an animal with you.
Good Luck on your journey.
You can get some great mattresses- they are worth it- sleep on the road is important ♡
we just bought a 10" memory foam mattress, what a great choice it is
Looking forward to see all the updates....plus the adventures following that! 😊👌👌👌
Great couple and cool project. Excited to watch the changes.
I love it!! And I imagine how exciting this must be for you. I think this will be a good invesment for your channel and your life!
You have so much to learn and I find this restoration exciting. Don't call it to much of a challenge until you try your hardest. Feel like you will make such a beautiful rv. I subscribed.
Can not wait for this series of videos! Love camper renovations! Will be great to see the end result 😍 Here’s to your awesome adventures in this “money pit” ❤️
Roof integrity is huge, make sure no leaks and seal it it well. Also these are built as a unit so everything is structurally important. Mechanical reliability is what will make it fun so that's where a lot of funds will go.
It's like you're being transported via a 1970s portal. Just need to add a mirrored disco ball to the roof...
Endless Adventure: The Trailer Trash Years...
A chev 350 from a 87-92 truck, van, suburban etc will bolt right in and they have fuel injection and plus the computer controls the ignition timing. They are a simple TBI setup and it’s a easy swap. You could probably fine a whole truck for less then $700
Name your camper “Flo” . You know that old lady flow from the diner show.
Does your truck have two gas tanks? Is that why you had that strange encounter when you first filled it up. Some old campers like that have two gas tanks
Mike
Hey Mike...had to chuckle when I read your comment:) That is exactly what I named my '83 Coachman Leprechaun. Named her after my grandmother (Florence) which also is my middle name. Going on my 4th summer with the ole girl!
Also here is where you can ask a person from coachman about the asbestos issue. coachmenrv.com/contact-us Hope this helps
Subscribed going to watching all your episodes on your motor home, popcorn in hand!!!!
Def consider getting a seat belt upgrade!
Yes, shoulder belts are required on new vehicles for a reason!
Thank Ralph Nader for FORCING seat belts into American vehicles...he saved millions of lives
Very exited to see this project develop, good luck!
I’m almost 45 but thankfully in pretty good condition 😅 PS. You have to keep those cool floor mats haha
🤣🤣🤣
Several layers of floor covering = insulation... from noise & temperature.
My '84 mini motorhome has thick, brown, original carpeting and it's staying, for the very reason you say. Also, it's comfy underfoot and you don't slide around like on modern flooring.
Looking at the cosmetic issues you can just imagine all the family fun and adventures that occurred in the ole gal !
Can't wait to see where this renovation adventure (renoventure???) takes you!
Campgrounds don't accept older RVs? Why not?
Haha I'm feeling so old. Yes lap seat belts were a thing. They were in most vehicles from the 70's when seat belts were optional.😄 Sounds like a some great improvements you have planned. -Shawna🍁
Our 1998 Damon Ultrasport (Freightliner chassis) has only lap belts.
a perfect candidate for pimp my ride, what a show that would be...
This is amazing. Can’t wait to see more videos on this where you do it up etc. Really looking forward to it. Love all your videos watched every single one since pretty much the beginning but first comment :).
I had the same RV, I think mine was an 82, but I can't remember. I remodeled it and spent almost $10,000 on renovations over a few years. Not money well spent I must say. It was my first RV and enjoyed fixing it up, however I had major problems with the transmission (replaced 2x) and engine. New tanks, new bed, new a/c, in hindsight I wish I had never purchased it. Good luck to you, I hope you have a better time of it than I did.
Important words if caution. Dont get overwhelmed. Start with basics & then determine if its worth it.
Congrats!!! Y’all are young, go for it! So wish my hubby and I were able to travel like y’all.
Check out Trent and Allie as they are doing a renovation on a travel trailer and have great ideas and do great work. Blessings.
So cute guys!! Can’t wait for the name reveal 😍
Keep it as vintage as possible! Aside from keeping history alive, it's an awesome film location, and unique airbnb.
Me: watch as previous video.
Also me: wonders when the tour will be uploaded
The endless adventure: upload tour.
You guys are mind readers!😂😂😂
wow, what a time machine, thats is great shape for its age. have not seen one that good in decades, the efi conversion is a good idea, 350 chev is the most easily upgraded motor ever, a transmison would be another consideration...lots of luck, the old girl is why i subscribed, love vintage rvs
I was eagerly looking forward to this!!
😂 I am 45 and definitively not in mint condition anymore either! I think it will be fun renovating her and seeing the end results what you end up keeping, from the original built!
You look In mint condition. 😉
Oh man does the carpet match the drapes?
old girl... almost 45 years old.. I'm 46.... I guess I'm an old girl...
Epic reference to Joy Ride. "Candy Caneeeee..."
I had to stop the video, I was laughing too much - I always think I'm the only one that gets that, lol.
Thank you - I couldn't remember the name of the movie! RIP Paul Walker
So basically you're going to ruin it. What a shame.
Sometimes, the youtube recommended viewing algorithms get it right! Congrats, from a fellow vintage Coachmen Leprechaun owner. (1980 GMC) Looking forward to following your restoration progress and following your rv adventures!
Love it! Have a '79 Winnebago Sundancer here in the UK which is in pretty much the same original condition. Looking forward to future videos.
It's so nice to seeing you so happy about the RV. I thought about Hervé for the name as it's how you pronounce the letter RV in French :P I was wondering for the bed part, would it be too much to add a sort of collapsible/retractable roof, you know like you can do on some caravans to give more height to sleep but back to normal when you drive? I am so looking forward to seeing all the changes :D x
Yes, when you pulled up before you stopped the engine sounded like its on its last legs.
Oh, it so IS. I cant believe they made it *5* hours at one trip.
Be very gentle when cleaning the knobs on the stove. I grew up in a house built in the 60's and the numbers on the dials will wipe off easily with the strong cleaners we have today. She looks very cute and she will be perfect for you two.
Please, please wear a N95 mask when you start ripping things up in the RV. You will exposing yourselves to materials that are decades old.
Always use the most gentle cleaning products first. If they dont work well, step up sliwly to stroner solutions.
It's just an old motorhome. You can put lipstick on a pig, and at the end of the day... it's still a pig. Love how you think ppl really care ...they don't!
Fit the muffer..it will have more power and be better on gas
The problem is campgrounds won't accept older RV's.
This is just one reason to stay in State and National Parks instead. A lot cheaper, and no problem with older rigs.
hey guys sorry to break it to you but your camper is an old man not lady.
WOW she is fabulous.. I loved the quick peek at names, Gladys popped out to me, So I would like to offer up my name suggestion.. Gladys McCamper.. Sounds like a teacher from the 70's..
Best of luck to you both and 'Gladys' too.. Happy wanderings..
Best wishes from Wales ..
Please be careful, if Asbestos is a possibility, if you are tearing up the floor. The linoleum would be the first red flag.
I can’t believe y’all mutilated this beautiful time capsule. You could’ve chosen one that was in need of it’s interior being ripped out and let this go to someone who preserves beautiful things instead of ruining them. What a shame.
Indeed, it was immaculated and so cool, no need for a total renovation! A deep clean and and an accurate mechanical control and it was ready to go...
Keep the CB. It's a lot better than a radar detector! Just make sure you learn the lingo. You'll love it!
Retro Rita lol
Eager to see your RV restoration
back in the 70's they only had lap belts, except maybe in luxury cars...
Whats your time plan to do all that work. looks a great project
@The endless Adventure name her “The Irish Gal” or Tig for short!
Sounds Magically Delicious!!!!
Love it. my husband and I want to do this too
The Money Pit.
Where is Chevy Chase??
Brilliant idea and perfect timing for this adventure! Can’t wait to see it remodeled inside!
Our opinion is to hook up the CB radio. We've been RV'ing for 18 years and find the CB to be indispensable. When things are fine: it's of zero use. But when there is an accident or construction, the CB helps you move into the proper lane or gain some situational awareness from the truckers. Plus, the occasional language is at least entertaining...
Groovy ! We want 70’s music in your next video.. ABBA, Cat Stevens, Boomtown Rats ! Oh yeah let’s groove ✌️
New subscriber here, love your videos especially your RV.
so nice !! cant wait to see your video about all the renovation, cool project :)
Forgot to mention Luvvies; some folk regret top loading fridges. Say you are constantly "digging" to get to items on the bottom. Also harder to keep organized. Bon Chance!
Have fun dealing with your black water tank!!!!
specially when it doesnt drain... lol
That's a cool RV!!!
Congratulations you guys!!! I'm soo excited to see all the upgrades and of course the first road trip!!!
Had a 1974 chevy nova with the 350 engine. Drove it over 10 years with no major engine problems, but transmission gave out. Bought it because 1974 was the last year before they started putting alot of emission controls on cars.
SO excited about this! I’ve been following you guys for a while & love your content and also have a travel trailer. Now I have a one stop shop for viewing. ;) We love RVing to the national parks and getting close to nature! Looking forward to your new adventures! .....Also, super smart way for you guys to keep the travel videos going during the craziness! WTG!