1976 Dodge Sportsman Help
Hello All, I came across an old post with oldtrucker63 and Lo Lo and I hope they or someone else that can help is still around. Here's the situation, yesterday I bought a 1976 Dodge Sportsman motor...
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We had a 72 Dodge Maxi-van conversion for many years. Carb needed periodic cleaning,rebuild/replacement, points needed replacement/adjustment . Had some electrical problems with large connector that goes through the firewall also a balance resistor that is mounted on the firewall. Also had trouble with a bad ignition coil that would get hot and malfunction. Try to find a good and friendly mechanic familiar with old Dodge engines, etc. and watch what he does and eventually learn how to do basics yourself. Heed advice about tires and brake system. Have old brake fluid flushed and replaced as part of a good brake system servicing/repair. You may have trouble finding proper size/type 800 X 16.5"bias belted" replacement tires to fit wheels. Get aadvice on buying tires (or) finding wheels that are compatible with modern steel belted radial tires.There is a long running thread about care and feeding of old Dodge motorhomes on this forum. Wider (8.75) tires may rub inside wheel wells making sharp turns. Try not to spend way too much on repairs/upgrades on this old rig, it is only worth about $4000
regardless of mileage or money you invest in it. If housebox has water leak damage, repairs by a professional will be very expensive as will repairs/replacement of roof AC, dash AC, fridge,RV generator, etc. if/when needed.Get to know and understand your 12 volt house battery charging system including the "converter charger", battery(s) and fuse boxes aswell as the 120vac shore power system and propane supply for fridge, water heater and stove.
You will need to monitor electrolyte levels and proper charging of house batteries. You have a challenging new hobby !!! Don't drive with unsafe tires or brakes, learn to control speed with downshifting on twisty down-grades.
You will need to buy a same year/model Chilton's etc., Dodge van overhaul/maintenance manual.
regardless of mileage or money you invest in it. If housebox has water leak damage, repairs by a professional will be very expensive as will repairs/replacement of roof AC, dash AC, fridge,RV generator, etc. if/when needed.Get to know and understand your 12 volt house battery charging system including the "converter charger", battery(s) and fuse boxes aswell as the 120vac shore power system and propane supply for fridge, water heater and stove.
You will need to monitor electrolyte levels and proper charging of house batteries. You have a challenging new hobby !!! Don't drive with unsafe tires or brakes, learn to control speed with downshifting on twisty down-grades.
You will need to buy a same year/model Chilton's etc., Dodge van overhaul/maintenance manual.
