87252 gmcws newsletter 75 · 2009. 11. 24. · western states newsletter november 2009—vol. 75 2...

November 2009—Vol. 75

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Inside1 President’s Message

2 Offi cers • Rally Schedule Treasurer’s Report Publication Schedule

3–4 Secretary’s Report Coaches for Sale

5 GMCWS Tech Center

6–11 Pueblo, CO Rally Report

12 Roster Additions/Corrections

Western States Newsletter

GMC Western states neWsLetter


GMC Western States has completed another successful rally in Pueblo, Co. Th e end of September brought a combined Rally/Convention with GMC Motorhome International. Th e Club wants to thank all the GMCWS members that attended the rally and made it an outstanding success. A special thanks to Ray and Carol Swartzendruber, and our Wagon Master for organizing many activities.

Sincere gratitude to our presenters and specialty vendors; particularly Steve Ferguson, Jerry Work, Chuck Aulgur, Dick Paterson, Gene Dotson, Bill Bramlett, Alex Sirum, Jim Buchanan, Bob Drewes, Emery Stora, Duane Simmons and of coarse Jim Kanomata and many others.

Special appreciation for all of our members that have committed to being Rally Hosts for GMCWS from Spring 2010 clear up to Spring 2012. We’ll be traveling from Auburn, Ca. Spring of 2010 and ending our Spring 2012 Rally in Saint George, Utah. A generous amount of fun, good food, fantastic seminars and just GMC camaraderie is in store. All are encouraged to attend our rallies and especially invite guest that may be prospective GMC owners.

Most of our Offi cers have agreed to remain on the Executive Board for another year, except our First VP. Sharon Work served as our First VP this past year we’ll miss her from the Board. Sharon’s time and eff ort in keeping the women workshops on target is very appreciated. We do, however, welcome Lillian Trubert as the First VP. Lillian also serves as our Rally Reporter and also was our Newsletter Editor and Publisher, along with her husband Marc, for several years. Must say that our members are worker bees.

All are requested to continue sharing your experience and/or knowledge about special needs and problems, our GMC has/may experience, with our newer members and owners. Hardly a week goes by that I don’t receive a call asking a question or needing a referral. I know that Steve Ferguson, Duane Simmons, Manny Trovao, Larry Weidner and many others respond to similar calls. One of the special features of owning a GMC is our extremely strong support network. Let’s keep the momentum on track to ensure that our GMC’s continue to be a viable contender in the RV arena. WISHING ALL A HAPPY THANKSGIvING CELEBRATION!

Frank

President’s Message

Western States Newsletter November 2009—Vol. 75

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GMC Western States OfficersFrank Condos, Chapter President559-683-5185, [email protected]

Lillian Trubert, First Vice President559-683-0995, [email protected]

Steve Ferguson, Technical Vice President 520-803-0220, [email protected]

Judy Cherry, Secretary 928-445-7875, [email protected]

Dave deGraffenreid, Treasurer 949-642-6827, [email protected]

Kerry Tandy, FMCA National Director Cell: 406-360-5187, [email protected]

Gene Dotson, FMCA Alt. Nat. Director 828-465-0678, [email protected]

Freddi Condos, Newsletter Coordinator 559-683-5185, [email protected]

Lill Deal, Newsletter Publisher 858-270-3023, [email protected]

GMC Western States Newsletter Designed and Printed by Ideal Services, San Diego, CA

If you would like to submit an article or item, email Freddi: [email protected]

DISCLAIMER: NEWSLETTER ARTICLES ARE CONTRIBUTED BYMEMBERS AND ARE PUBLISHED AS A SERVICE TO MEMBERS.

ACCURACY IS NOT GUARANTEED. INDEPENDENT VERIFICATION IS URGED.

The GMC Western States Inc, chapter of the Family Motor Coach Association, is comprised of GMC Motorhome owners from all fifty states and the three southwestern provinces of Canada. The Chapter purpose is to promote the preservation of the GMC Motorhome with a technical program of professional seminars and published information and to further the mutual association, membership, enjoyment and common interest of GMC Motorhome owners, their families and friends. Web site: www.gmcws.org, Billy and Debbie Massey

January 1 – October 25, 2009

Income: $40,260,86

Expenses: $13,358.67

Net Income: $26,902.19

Dave deGraffenreidTreasurer

Treasurer’s Report

2010 Newsletter Publication Date Schedule 1st 2nd 3rd 4th

Publication Dates: Feb 26th June 18th Aug 27th Nov 19th

Info to Coordinator: Feb 5th June 4th Aug 13th Nov 5th

To Publisher: Feb 12th June 9th Aug 18th Nov 10th

Western States Rally Schedule MAY 19-24, 2010GOLD COUNTRY FAIRAUBURN, CALIFORNIAHOSTS: FRANK AND FREDDI CONDOS

OCTOBER 17-22, 2010OASIS, LAS VEGAS RV RESORTLAS VEGAS, NEVADAHOSTS: MICHAEL AND JUDY CHERRY

SPRING 2011SAN LORENZO RV RESORTKING CITY, CALIFORNIAHOSTS: PHIL AND JO ANNE HERNANDEZ

FALL 2011ST. GEORGE, UTAHHOST: STEPHEN STOLLEY

SPRING 2012 CALIFORNIA COASTHOSTS: DE GRAFFENREID AND TROVAO


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Secretary’s Report

GMC Western States Executive Board Meeting September 26, 2009 1:00 pm

continued

Present were: Frank Condos - President, Sharon Work – First Vice President, Steve Ferguson - Tech Vice President, Judy Cherry – Secretary, Dave de Graffenreid - Treasurer, Kerry Tandy – FMCA Director, Gene Dotson, Alt. FMCA Director, Billy Massey – Webmaster, Freddi Condos - Wagonmaster and Newsletter Coordinator, and State Reps Bob Cook, Bettie and Harold Kennedy.

Summary of the meeting:

-Treasurer Dave de Graffenreid reported the treasury balance. Due to cost of Newsletters the Secretary will include an option to receive Newsletters via email, in the renewal notice due out early January, 2010.

-Secretary Judy Cherry reported we currently have 328 members.

-President Frank Condos requested volunteers to serve on Bylaws Committee, to ensure that our Bylaws are in accordance with FMCA.

-Wagonmaster Freddi Condos reported future rallies.

-The Board agreed to provide complimentary wine tasting tickets to GMC Western States Board members and spouses, and to volunteer workers at this rally.

-Nominating Committee member Bob Cook reported that Jeff Fraisure will be the new state rep for Washington, replacing Carol Baxter, and that Lillian Trubert has agreed to be nominated for 1st Vice President, replacing Sharon Work. All other officers have agreed to remain in their positions for 2010.

The meeting was adjourned at 1:45 pm.

Respectfully submitted,

Judy Cherry, Secretary

GMC Western States Membership Meeting September 26th, 2009 2:00 pm

President, Frank Condos, called the Meeting to order. He entertained a motion that the reading of the minutes be dispensed with, since they have been published in the Newsletter. The motion was made, seconded, and passed. Secretary Judy Cherry announced that GMC Western States currently has 328 members.

Treasurer, Dave de Graffenreid reported the treasury balance. In accordance with recent policy we do not publish the detailed amounts in our newsletter or on our website.

Wagonmaster Freddi Condos reported the following future rallies:

• Spring 2010 Auburn, Ca. Gold Country Fair, May 19-24, 2010, Rally Hosts: Frank and Freddi Condos

• Fall 2010 Oasis RV Resort, Las Vegas, NV, October 17-22, 2010, Rally Hosts: Mike and Judy Cherry

• Spring 2011 San Lorenzo RV Resort, King City, CA, Rally Hosts: Phil and Joanne Hernandez.

Alternate National FMCA Director, Gene Dotson gave a report from the July FMCA meeting. FMCA is losing 400 members a month, and they are trying to get new members by offering incentives. Only one third of their members belong to chapters such as GMC Western States. They are considering lowering meeting requirements to one per year from two per year. Chapters must have 15 or more members. The national office in Cincinnati has made deep cuts in salaries and expenses. Cost for Medex insurance has been raised from $1.95 per member to $4.95 per member. FMCA has an $800,000 deficit for 2010. FMCA wants GMC’s back at their rallies. FMCA dues may be raised by $5 in 2011.

President Frank Condos requested volunteers to serve on a by-laws committee to review and redo our by-laws in accordance with recent FMCA changes. Dorris Garton, Bob Cook, and Judy Cherry volunteered for the committee.

New Business:

Dave de Graffenreid noted that the Pinewood Derby will be held during the GMC International Convention this week. Members can purchase model GMC’s and wheels and race them on the course set up in the auditorium.

Freddi Condos noted that $6 tickets are available for Wednesday’s wine tasting.

Bob Cook announced the nominee for 1st Vice President for 2010 is Lillian Trubert. There were no other nominations, and Lillian was elected by acclamation. All other officers have agreed to continue for 2010: President – Frank Condos, Technical Vice


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We welcome your ad. Ads will run for one year unless we are informed otherwise. Please inform us if your coach is sold before the ad runs out. The last four digits at the end of the ad represent the expiration date (month/year).

Contact: Freddi Condos, 559-683-5185, [email protected]

AIR BAG SLEEvES: $15.00 for 2-plastic sleeves, 2 samples of 303 lubricant, 2 adhesive pads and directions for installation, plus $5 postage. Bob Sternfels (949) 497-3534 (Laguna Beach, California). __________________________________ 0410

1978 ROYALE (26’), This coach is very clean, in good condition, and many upgrades. Must see to appreciate. $15,000. Ed Burner (714) 871-2095 or [email protected] ________ 0810

1973 CANYON LANdS (26’), 108,216 miles, rebuilt 455 engine and carburetor at 82,770 miles. Beige Flex Steel leather pilot, co-pilot seats, sleeper sofa and chairs. Micro/convection oven, 3-way refrigerator. Fantastic fan, roof pod. A & E awnings both sides. Macerator, hitch, golf cart house batteries. Manuals and records, very clean. Selling due to health problems. Asking $12,000–Darrel or Arlis Tetzloff (925) 937-2418 – Walnut Creek, Ca

___________________________________________ 0310

Coaches for Sale1976 PALM BEACH (26’), 77,000 miles, upgrades include new alcoa rims, new tires, leather driver/passenger seats, zip dee awning, and macerator. All maintenance and other records are available and photos on Request. Asking $5,000 OBO. Walter Rugh (818) 865-2988/ Cell: (503) 807-9115 _____________________ 1110

1974 GLACIER (23’), Documented custom exterior (restoration & paint), meticulous mechanical maintenance and repairs, and interior upgrades.Two-tone blue & silver custom paint w/dark blue stripe, 7 alcoawheels. 106,000 total miles. 7,600 miles on rebuilt 3.42 Final Drive transmission by Allen’s Classic Service (Denny Allen). 17,500 miles on rebuilt 455 core motor, thermostat & radiator. Purchased 1987. Full maintenance log on-line at www.gallery.me.com/evedavidson. Asking $19,800. Sonny’s, Pork Hadlock, Wa. – (800) 300-4819 ___________________ 1110

1976 GLENBROOK (26’), Fully self-contained with generator, custom paint with graphics, Alcoa wheels, custom interior with leather front seats, laminate flooring and increased spaces. Call for a list of components that have been replaced and or added. Asking $12,500. Located in Lodi, California Contact:Gene Rizzolo (209) 368-3526 ___________________________________ 1110

President – Steve Ferguson, Secretary – Judy Cherry, Treasurer – Dave de Graffenreid, FMCA National Director – Kerry Tandy, Alternate FMCA National Director – Gene Dotson. Jeff Fraisure has agreed to be the new Washington State Representative. Appointees to continue also are Webmaster – Billy Massey, Wagonmaster and Newsletter Coordinator – Freddi Condos, Newsletter Publisher – Lill Deal, State Reps Len Simmons (OR), Manny Trovao (N. CA), Bob Cook (S. CA), Judy and Ken Booth (AZ and UT), Bettie and Harold Kennedy (CO and WY), Al Chernoff (NM and TX), Milt Wade (NV), Larry Calhoun (ID and MT), Claude Brousson (BC), and Dick Lyne (AB and SK).

Frank Condos reminded members to greet rally attendees with green badges, indicating that they are first timers at this International Convention.

The meeting was adjourned at 2:42 pm.

Respectfully submitted,

Judy Cherry, Secretary


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Western states tech center November 2009—Vol. 56

GMC Hot Start IssuesBy Steve Ferguson, Technical Vice President

Does your GMC start just fine when it’s cold, then barely crank over when the engine is hot? This is fairly prevalent from what I hear at rallys and the fix might be simpler than you think.

Note: The following troubleshooting assumes that the starter and battery are in good condition.

There are a couple of possible causes for this. Let’s look at the first one. Does your GMC have the original battery cables? I’ll bet that when you installed your last new battery, you made sure the battery connections were clean and tight. But, when was the last time you cleaned the connection between the block and the ground cable? Disconnect the cable from the block and clean the block surface down to bare metal, and while you’re at it, run a tap in and out of the bolt hole to clean up the threads. Take a close look at the cable. Time to replace it? If so, step up to a larger diameter cable, the cost is negligible. Now bolt the cable back up to the block using a new bolt, washer and lock washer. Now disconnect the positive cable from the battery and the starter. Again, do a good inspection of the cable. If it even looks like it’s suffering from the ravages of time, replace it. Here again, the cost of stepping up to larger diameter cable will be minimal. Bolt it back up. Give it a try, if it cranks easy, take it out for a drive long enough for things to get hot, then shut her down and let the engine heat soak for a while. Now, try it again. If the hot cranking problem still persists, let’s move on to the next step.

With the engine hot and idling, disconnect the hose to the vacuum advance on the distributer. Did the idle rpm drop? Now reconnect it. Did the idle rpm increase? If so, it is likely that you have the vacuum advance hooked up to the wrong source on the carburetor and the starter is fighting too much advance while cranking. This shows up mostly when the engine is hot. While

you have the hose off, connect one end of it to the distributer, put the other end in your mouth and suck on it while the engine is idling. We’re you able to draw and hold a continuous vacuum? Did the idle speed increase? If both answers are yes, you have just tested the diaphragm inside the advance can and it’s good. There should be no vacuum at the distributer advance can at idle. If you still have the OEM christmas tree on the right hand side, front of the intake, it may be bad, or may be hooked up incorrectly. The correct source of vacuum for the distributer advance mechanism is on the right, front of the carburetor, slightly above the throttle plate. This is called ported vacuum and you can connect a line from this source directly to the advance can on the front of the distributer bypassing the christmas tree with no problems. Now, check your timing and engine idle speed and make sure they are both correct. Take another drive and repeat the cycle above. Still have a hot start problem? If yes, it might be time for a new battery or starter. We’ve looked at all the “cheap” fixes. Nearly all parts houses can check starters and batteries if you bring them in and this is your next step.

Until next time, keep the sticky side down!

Urethane Bushing Source

www.bdub.net/ferguson/


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Pueblo Colorado was the destination for the Spring Rally for GMC Western States. Our good

times started to roll before the GMC Motorhome International Convention as we had our meetings first and then we stayed on for the bigger meeting.

Friday, September 25, and even before, Western States coaches came from the north, south and west to get the party started. After examining our new digs which was the Colorado State Fairgrounds, we hitched our wagons to the facilities and noted the generous size of our sites. And then the fun began.

Freddi and crew had a whoop-de-doo “hors d’oeuvres extravaganza” in progress before you could hog tie a heifer. The quantities of those little itty bitty doo-dads went way beyond what was advertised. We had “gourmet meals provided by Jim Beatty and his Chief Chef, Eva and crew!” Also, there was mellow Salmon Creek California Chardonnay, Pinot Grigio, Merlot, and Cabernet Savignon for the thirsty. Some of the International members, who came early for the International rally put their money on the bar and joined in the festivities.

Saturday dawned either clear and bright or windy and cold or maybe that was the day we had a little tornado, but we all got ourselves down to the chuck wagon room for a heck of a catered breakfast. The vittels were tasty, healthy and danged scrumptious!

If you didn’t get to hear Steve Ferguson’s seminar on dash air conditioning improvement, you missed a gem of information. He convinced most of us that the perfect coolant is Duracool (available on line from Fox Bros. or Shamrock Distributors in Fresno CA), and it’s the way to go considering the cost, environment and safety. Most places are not licensed to use this type, so you may decide to stick to using 134 unless you do it yourself. The modifications to produce more output of much cooler air can be found on the Internet, but Steve did a great job inputting mass quantities of info while learning a few things from the many experts sitting in the chairs at the seminar.

We had a good turn out at the Western States business meeting, and anyone who doesn’t attend these meetings just doesn’t know what they are missing. What a bunch of wisenheimers! Is nothing sacred? So this is the place for a good laugh, and all the talented GMC aficionados with expertise and money to burn come to keep our Board on their toes with their zealous input. We did manage to vote in the same Board (except 1st Vice President Sharon Work resigned and was replaced by Lillian Trubert). All the money seems to be safely deposited in as near as we can find, a reputable bank, and the discussion of how any surplus is to be spent rages on.

GMC Western States Fall Rally ReportPueblo, Colorado – September 25-26, 2009 by Lillian Trubert – Rally Reporter

The Western States also presented a fantastic dinner to the combined clubs on Saturday night. Freddi Condos organized and supervised a western style dinner of salad, carnitas, Spanish rice, real ranch beans, a heap of fresh vegetables and pie – and it was all served to the table so we could try to straighten each other out non-stop instead of waiting in lines for the food.

The GMC Motorhome International took over on Sunday for their Convention, which ran through October 2, so those in attendance got two meetings for the price of one. See the Rally Schedule, herein, for future GMC Western States Rallies. We hope to see all who can attend at our Spring 2010 Rally at Gold Country Fair in Auburn CA.

vOLuNTEERS AT PuEBLO:May the trumpets, drums, guitars make a harmonic sound in honor of all the fabulous GMC Western States volunteers. You seem to never tire of supporting our Clubs activities wherever requested to serve. Thank you for always saying yes. You are certainly appreciated, and may you continue to enjoy a safe, healthy, and joyous life’s journey.

JIM BEATTY, EvA, ANd CREW:Thank you for serving as our Caterer. You provided excellent food, beverages and service. You were always on the spot for whatever we needed, with short notice. We were quite fortunate to have found you. You allowed GMC Western States to continue its’ reputation for having good food and beverages at our rallies.

— Freddi


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8

Mighty Volunteers

Mighty Volunteers


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Mighty Volunteers


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A NOTE FROM RAY AND CAROL SWARTZENDRUBER

Carol and I wish to extend a very big “thank you” to GMC Western States members for your part in making the Pueblo Convention a resounding success! Over 1/3 of the registrations were from GMC Western States members. Everyone in attendance benefited from your extra activities and seminars. Frank and Freddi were a delight to work with, and we hope we can do a repeat next time our paths cross.


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87252 gmcws newsletter 75 · 2009. 11. 24. · western states newsletter november 2009—vol. 75 2...

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