Engine swap for motorhome - Diesel Forum

ToddT · 07-19-2004, 10:22 PM

The closer and closer I get to running veggie in my PSD, the more I think about that 30' Class A motorhome that I never use anymore due to the 7mpg 454 Chevy engine. Anybody ever run across somebody who swapped for a diesel engine in a motorhome? I'd use it a lot more if I didn't have to pay for the fuel!!!!

Granted, it would may not be worth it but I can't afford a new one and this coach is paid for. Unfortunately, I have less than 5000 miles on a fresh rebuild of this 454. Maybe I could sell the engine to some boat folks or others who want major horsepower. By the way, its a 1986 model with Banks exhaust.

Just a thought...

Todd T

PS... add a diesel generator... I could live on the road for a LONG time!

Ford_Forgotton · 07-19-2004, 11:40 PM

just check the weight rating on that front axle.

Thats the reason there is no Class-C diesel Ford motorhomes. The weight of the engine exceeds the weight rating for the front axle.

ToddT · 07-20-2004, 08:47 AM

Ah... yes... mechanical/technical stuff like weight ratings. Sometimes I forget that economic considerations aren't the only factors at play! Well, how about a lowrider motorhome? So what if it handles like crap? Not going to do the bouncing front end gig at the car shows, though.

Ford_Forgotton · 07-20-2004, 09:57 AM

[ QUOTE ]
So what if it handles like crap? Not going to do the bouncing front end gig at the car shows, though.

[/ QUOTE ]

You obviously have not driven I-10 between New Whorleans and Slidell. I have LITERALLY seen a class-c motorhome get its front tires in the AIR! Terrible roads. I hate driving my truck on them, especially towing. Cant do the speedlimit or you'll tear up your suspension.

Lobstah · 07-20-2004, 09:17 PM

Too bad it's only professional drivers and a few other smart ones that figure stuff like that out. All the other obliviots will fly by, blowing their horn at you.

Lob

edselman · 07-21-2004, 03:48 AM

I saw a website about a year ago that some guys stuffed a 5.9 cummins into I believe a 1967 Travco Motorhome with little modification needed to get it in, and they could get at least 20 mpg if I remember, versus about 5-6 with the 318 in it. I'm looking for the site, he had pictures and everything!

edit: found site, but pictures are broken! [img]/ubbthreads/images/graemlins/mad.gif[/img] The pictures really helped show how it all went in! [img]/ubbthreads/images/graemlins/shrug.gif[/img]

Dane