1977 Argosy

[slow-canoe]

I found a 77 Argosy motorhome 28 footer would like to know what to look at ,problems that might need looked for . And any input about the good and bad points of a1977 Argosy moterhome. What I am looking at is doing a remodeling on it. Also how do they drive and handle comparied to other motorhomes. Would like some input before I drive to look at it. Anybody out there had one what did you think of it.

[Warbs]

I've got a 1977 argo and if you're looking for something basic and easy to work on, you're making a pretty good choice. It's my first motorhome so I can't really compare it to others concerning handling. I've restored english sports cars for years and believe me, it's great to be able to go into any auto parts store and order just about any mechanical part!
As far as problems to look out for, all you have to remember is that it is 28 years old and just about every system has been or needs to be replaced. How previous work has been done is just about the most important thing. The best moho to buy would be one where the po was obsessed with preventative maintenance! Even if everything checks out be assured that you will find at least a couple of thousand dollars worth of work. Good luck and keep posting about your new moho!

[59toaster]

Originally Posted by slow-canoe

I found a 77 Argosy motorhome 28 footer would like to know what to look at ,problems that might need looked for . And any input about the good and bad points of a1977 Argosy moterhome. What I am looking at is doing a remodeling on it. Also how do they drive and handle comparied to other motorhomes. Would like some input before I drive to look at it. Anybody out there had one what did you think of it.

Handling will be better becasue the shape is more airodynamic and the boddy is lighter so the CG is lower then a simular size SOB.


Mechanicals are P30 like many others. So you are looking at a 454 Chevy TH400 tranny is the most likely combination.

They down side. Still a lot of weight and age is not kind to motors. MH's of all brands are drove hard then put up wet and left sitting to do it all over again. To get more then 100k out of a motor of that age is doing good. Seals and condinsation within the engine (they all do it) will take their toll.

[ALANSD]

you can browse the motorhome threads here and see all the common complaints. Heat related engine acceessory failures (starter, etc), weak charging systems, battery issues, and then all the coach related possibilities...furnaces old and not heating, water system leaks, etc. The good news is you will probably find answers to any and all these issues here...and the Argosy will prove to be way better built that most anything else in its price or age range.
Lastly- you might find that the one you buy is realtively free from many of the common problems, beacues the p.o. already repaired or upgraded. I have had over two years of use with minimum problems after the initial year of ownership where I r&r'd many things.