I’m reaching out for some advice and potential interest in a 1973 Barth motorhome that I recently acquired. I want to be transparent upfront—I’m not deeply involved in the RV community, but I do recognize the significance of these vehicles and the dedication many of you have for them.

Here’s what I know about this Barth:

• Model: 1973 Barth Motorhome, 25 feet long.
• Engine and Generator: Chevy 454, currently disassembled, but all parts needed for reassembly are present and stored inside the RV. The majority of these parts are new. The generator works.
• Previous Owners: The previous owner had big dreams of rebuilding the engine off the vehicle, and while he made progress, he sadly passed away before completing the project. The parts meant to be reassembled were stored away in cupboards for a few years. Unfortunately, after his passing, his wife fell into a deep depression and filled the RV with trash and cat waste. We’ve cleaned it up significantly, but there’s still some lingering odor, and it needs a lot of love. We also ripped out the flooring, I am debating what exactly to do or not do with the rest.
• Ins and Outs: The RV’s exterior is solid, besides a little this and that to make her pretty, and fix the rust, but it’s clear the inside needs work. Whether it’s a full renovation or just some aesthetic updates, there’s potential here.
• Registration: Expired last year; it’s $300 to renew. No title, but I do have the registration papers. It’s on non-op.

I want to do right by this motorhome, but I have to be honest with myself—I don’t have the time, resources, or expertise to take on this project, I’m incredibly grateful to have it now but I’m also aware that my focus needs to be on rebuilding my life, not just this RV.

It was a gift I received in my search for stable housing. I’m open to selling or trading this Barth, ideally for something road-ready and livable now. I believe this RV could be something truly special in the hands of someone who can appreciate and invest in it.

I know the engine and the generator alone are probably worth a few thousand dollars, but I’m not interested in parting it out. Instead, I’d like to respect the vision of the previous owner and see if I can pass this on to someone who can bring that dream to completion.

I’d greatly appreciate any advice on what I should do next, what I should be asking for it, or if there’s anyone in the community who might be interested. I’m eager to hear your thoughts and would like to make sure I’m approaching this in the best way possible.

Thank you in advance for any guidance or interest you might have.

I am in between southern and central california.

Contact me: collumst@outlook.com, 6615921902.
https://photos.app.goo.gl/Fwcic9gDJig1pA6p9

You have quite a project there. It takes a good deal of ambition and skill to get these old dinosaur coaches fixed up.

That said, old coaches of high quality aluminum construction (like Barths) are good candidates for renovation.

You should be able to find a mechanic who can reassemble the engine, but the coach work requires many skills. I would concentrate on the suspension and driveline first. Good tires and brakes are the first. Plan to replace all brake and fuel lines. Once suspension/brakes are ok, then engine and driveline can be put to work. Be sure to patch any roof leaks or your new work could be ruined. Wiring, plumbing and appliances would be next, then finally recover walls and floor.

One possible issue. Being in California, you are in the most restrictive vehicle registration state. With emission rules it may be tricky to get your coach legally on the road.

With luck we can find someone with the time and skills to get this coach on the road again. People with these skills are getting harder to find every day. Parting it out may be the only other option.

One of our members, Duane88, has been working on a 1971 Barth. Many projects and a learning curve all the way.

See here: https://www.barthmobile.com/ev...683949797#2683949797

Good luck with your project. Keep us informed!