http://newjersey.craigslist.org/rvs/3519470972.html

Research these a little and they came with an Olds 455. Why not a factory Chevy motor ?

 

Reading some articles it looks like they used the Toronado drive train, to lower the over all height of the motorhome, (no drive shaft) lower center of gravity and easier step in height.

Pat

 

Because they're front wheel drive and Olds was already set up for the FWD with the Toro drivetrain.

Pretty cool units - always wished I had the place for one - neat resto project

 

Because the TH425 transmission used in those motorhomes only came with a BOP bolt pattern bellhousing. The two engine choices that were EPA certified with that trans were the Olds 455 or the Caddy 500. I'm guessing that Caddy didn't have the production capability to support GMC production.

 

Wasn't FWD required as well by the Department of Defense?

 

Only if it came with 'Stripes'...and was designated EM-50 Urban Assault Vehicle

 

I have had a number of these come through the shop over the years. One interesting tidbit is that to replace the engine you were supposed to construct an overhead track which started above the engine entended rearward then exited out the door. you used a chain hoist and trolley to lift the engine then transport it out the door. Complete instructions were in the factory service manual including where to set the the support legs. Quite a process!!

 

Always wanted one!

The closest I ever got to owning one was our 1945 Flxible equipped with a '68 455 and THM400. It hauled the old bus along very well, much better than the original straight 8 Buick, except it would frequently overheat.

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