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Old 08-05-2007, 07:45 PM   #1
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Safari furnace repair

I am working on a 64 Safari w/ the original ducted heater, are any parts avail. for this unit & is it worth fixing? when I turn the thermostat on a solenoid makes a buzzing noise, but the fan does not come on.The propane is not on @ the moment.....Dont know if that is causing something not to kick on the fan?
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Old 08-05-2007, 08:43 PM   #2
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Troubleshooting the Furnace

If you are familiar with the furnace, by all means take it out, clean it, test it on the bench, check the combustion chamber for holes--(warning leaks can be DEADLY). It might be a good idea to have a professional tech look at the system. Or a better solution, chuck it for a new one. I would save up for a new one; better than waking up DEAD.
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Old 08-05-2007, 10:36 PM   #3
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The heater in my '64 was an incomplete pile of rust. It went straight to the trash. Do a visual inspection and if everything appears to be solid, then you can make a decision to test/repair if able. Otherwise it would be safest to scrap it and get a replacement.

PS. let's see some photos of your airstream
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Old 08-05-2007, 10:43 PM   #4
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Hey Cochise,

A 40+ year old furnace that probably started rusting from day 1 is not the best candidate for a re-build.

I would invest the time and dollars in a new, more efficient unit (with warranty) and you'll also be able to sleep much better knowing that it won't be leaking carbon monoxide thru some little pinholes in the combustion chamber that you might have overlooked.

Better to spend a few extra dollars in this area. You'll be happy with your decision
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Old 08-06-2007, 12:42 AM   #5
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Quote:
Originally Posted by Cochese
I am working on a 64 Safari w/ the original ducted heater, are any parts avail. for this unit & is it worth fixing? when I turn the thermostat on a solenoid makes a buzzing noise, but the fan does not come on.The propane is not on @ the moment.....Dont know if that is causing something not to kick on the fan?
Don't even try to fix that furnace, that was made International Oil Burner.

There were a long list of modifications to them "when they were new."

You will find the insides to be a rusted mess.

And by the way, they are famous for exploding when you try to light it.

Andy
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Old 08-06-2007, 05:07 AM   #6
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follow the advice given.

be safe and junk it.

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Old 08-06-2007, 11:14 AM   #7
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Safari furnace repair

Thanks for the input,I love buying new things!! Where can I find a replacement?
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Old 08-06-2007, 11:22 AM   #8
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Your local RV supply store (even though they might be a little more expensive, your business will keep them there and they'll still be there when you really need them) or as last resort.....Camping World or any of the internet sellers like PPL motorhomes.
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Old 08-06-2007, 01:18 PM   #9
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perhaps lew can correct me if i am wrong, the rule of thumb for sizing furnaces is 1000 btu per foot of trailer.

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Old 08-06-2007, 01:27 PM   #10
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perhaps lew can correct me if i am wrong, the rule of thumb for sizing furnaces is 1000 btu per foot of trailer.

john
John,

Close enough for Airstream work, factoring in a normal winter.

If temperatures hang around zero or less, then additional BTU's from the AC heat strip, or from a electric heater will be needed.

Andy
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Old 08-06-2007, 01:32 PM   #11
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thanks andy! helpful as always!

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Old 08-12-2007, 07:53 PM   #12
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Question Replacement ?

Lew, Andy,

I have removed and will be replacing my unit as well, (although with recent temps here in GA in the triple digits it has been pretty low on the list ) can you reccomend a direct sizing replacement for a 64/65 model Safari or will it be like everything else and turn in to a custom engineering job ? Mine is 22 footer, not sure about Cochise's.

Here is a pic of my furnace before I pulled it out. I could get the measurements if that helps.

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Old 08-12-2007, 11:31 PM   #13
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Kevo,

I'll get back to you with sizing and prices tomorrow.
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Old 08-17-2007, 04:14 PM   #14
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I too would be intrested in knowing the sizing... My 62 Overlander has that exact International ducted furnace and I see a bunch of rust in there. Today was the first day I testes things out. The only thing that didn't work was the furnace... smell gas when I try to light her but nothing happens. I would feel much better having a new furnace. Can the vent stay the same? Nothing says vintage airstream like that huge diffuser hanging on the side. You can look at my photos at http://www2.snapfish.com/thumbnailsh...4/t_=101036844
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Old 08-17-2007, 04:24 PM   #15
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Quote:
Originally Posted by 62overlander
I too would be intrested in knowing the sizing... My 62 Overlander has that exact International ducted furnace and I see a bunch of rust in there. Today was the first day I testes things out. The only thing that didn't work was the furnace... smell gas when I try to light her but nothing happens. I would feel much better having a new furnace. Can the vent stay the same? Nothing says vintage airstream like that huge diffuser hanging on the side. You can look at my photos at Snapfish: Share:Registration
YOUR VERY LUCKY.

Attempting to light the old International Oil Burner furnace, is asking for an "EXPLOSION" big time.

It has happened all to many times.

"DO NOT ATTEMPT TO LIGHT IT, EVER"

Andy
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Old 08-18-2007, 09:59 AM   #16
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The PO said it worked "perfect"... it is propane fired, or was... anyway, it would not fireup or run or anything. Besides who is afraid of a little explosion? I am not afraid... I own an Airstream! I want to change it out, but do not want to make a lot of modifications. Does anyone know of an exact swap out?
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Old 08-18-2007, 10:15 AM   #17
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please read this thread to the end before attempting any repairs!

http://www.airforums.com/forums/f427...0ma-35151.html

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Old 08-19-2007, 10:41 AM   #18
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WELL... Replacement it is... Pist, does anyone want to recommend a relacement?
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Old 08-19-2007, 11:01 AM   #19
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Quote:
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WELL... Replacement it is... Pist, does anyone want to recommend a relacement?
Suburban NT30SP.

You will need to plate the exterior and make new holes.

Modern furnaces will not use the old vent, nor will they fit the same holes, not even close.

Andy
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Old 08-19-2007, 06:29 PM   #20
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Suburban NT30SP.

You will need to plate the exterior and make new holes.

Modern furnaces will not use the old vent, nor will they fit the same holes, not even close.

Andy
Andy does this mean it is ok to take the innards of an NT30SP and put them in the metal box from a NT30MA to make it easier to mount in the trailer? Granted I will still have to cut a slot out for the gas line since it has moved from top to bottom, but having done that it should make the rest of the install much easier.
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