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1972 Barth 25' fixer-upper

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12-07-2016, 07:13 PM
snakedriver
1972 Barth 25' fixer-upper
Hello folks, I'm fixing up my new (to me) 1972 Barth 25 footer. I'm converting the v-belt setup to a serpentine belt system, and I've done some other mods to the engine. I need some advice and help with the rest of the coach. Specifically, I need to go through this thing one system at a time. My next project is the electrical system. I have no idea what works and what doesn't. I found an interesting AC/DC converter under one of the seats, and there's a green colored generator back towards the rear. I have decent mechanical and electrical troubleshooting abilities. Where would you start?



1972 Barth 25', 402 big block, TH400 transmission, work in progress!
12-07-2016, 09:51 PM
Tom and Julie
I am converting a 1981 22' Euro coach that was operating. First - make water tight! Stripped off roof, eliminated the ceiling vents and all holes other than the ac. Patch, rivet, tape and then coat.
Second - remove the ceiling and all cabinets. Need to find where the water damaged the coach, and to run new circuits for lights, computers and appliances. Put in extra cables so add ons can be easy.
Third - The little green thng is an Onan Generator. Make it work and adjust so it runs smooth and continuously. But first check all wires and stuff so there is no electrical failures.
That will take a while.
Good luck,
Tom


1993 32' Regency Wide Body, 4 speed Allison Trans, Front Entry door, Diamond Plate aluminum roof &
1981 Euro 22' w Chevy 350 engine and TH 400 tranny
12-08-2016, 06:58 AM
Danny Z
Most of your interior lighting, as well as the fresh water pump, some refrigerators and various other things are 12 volt. The converter is for converting 110 to 12 when you're plugged in or running the genny. Here's a simple diagram I found in my paperwork that has clarified a lot of things to me. Keep in mind that all coaches are different but this may be of some help. https://www.barthmobile.com/eve...661039061#4661039061


79 Barth Classic
12-09-2016, 07:12 PM
snakedriver
Thanks for the wiring diagram, I appreciate it. I should be able to finish up the serpentine belt conversion this weekend, then on to the electrical system!


1972 Barth 25', 402 big block, TH400 transmission, work in progress!
12-11-2016, 06:57 PM
snakedriver
Big progress this weekend, I finished up the serpentine belt system and it works fantastic. The parts from a big-block suburban bolted right up, I used an alternator wiring harness with a resistor that I got on ebay. Now she's got a 140 amp alternator and a serpentine system. I was able to get her up to operating temperature for the first time, and I had some radiator flush and water in there. Tons of crap came out, so I hope the cooling system is now clean.

As an added bonus, I hooked up a battery to the generator, and unbelievably it started right up in a cloud of blue smoke. It only ran for 5 minutes or so and quit again, but I think I ran the fuel level too low. More to come on that. All in all it was a good weekend!


1972 Barth 25', 402 big block, TH400 transmission, work in progress!
12-11-2016, 07:01 PM
snakedriver
My immediate issues are as follows: She doesn't want to start when warm. I guess it's a common problem with big blocks. It's got a brand new battery and starter from Autozone, and I won't hesitate to swap them out for some heavier duty stuff. The battery needs to be bigger, for sure.

I broke off the dipstick tube in the oil pan, which is looking like a huge pain in my rear. Apparently it's common, and the hot rod guys deal with it all the time. So I've got to figure out a way to deal with this.

The generator quit on me, as I mentioned in the last post. Hopefully it's just fuel starvation. I ordered 2 new spark plugs. I'll fill her up with some more gas, and cross my fingers.


1972 Barth 25', 402 big block, TH400 transmission, work in progress!
12-11-2016, 07:14 PM
Steve VW
Great progress Thumbs Up Mechanic

Early GM big blocks had lots of issues with hot starting. The starters are sensitive to heat. There is a factory high temp solenoid available, also many have metal heat shrouds to protect from exhaust heat.

I bought a new ministarter and it spins every time.

Here: https://www.barthmobile.com/eve...033959187#1033959187


9708-M0037-37MM-01
"98" Monarch 37
Spartan MM, 6 spd Allison
Cummins 8.3 325+ hp
12-11-2016, 07:30 PM
snakedriver
Thanks Steve, I think I'm going to go that route as well. I'm headed over to the Summit website to see what I can find.


1972 Barth 25', 402 big block, TH400 transmission, work in progress!