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For additional technical session presentations and papers, go to gmcmi.com/technical-presentations-papers/>> Q&A Steering, Brakes andFront Suspension | Dave LenziIn this session, Dave invited owners to ask any questions they may have on steering, suspension, and brakes. He also invited owners to comment on their experiences with related problems and their solutions. Subjects addressed included the “one ton” replacement for the OEM upper/ lower control arms and ball joints, “P 30” master cylinder, front hub extenders, four-bag rear suspension, emergency vacuum pumps,and practices on changing outer and innerCV joint boots.>> GMC Motorhome Frame Replacement | Dan Stuckey and Dale Ropp In this session, Dan chronicled the replacement of the frame for Dale Ropp’s 1977 Palm Beach. A key observation of most owners present was that frame replacement is not for “the faint- of-heart”. It is a very laborious procedure.Dan emphasized the merits of the galvanized steel for replacement frames. He noted thatthere is no replacement for the engine cradle framing. That fortunately, he noted, is rarely the driving force for frame replacement. Most often, corrosion and weakening of the frame at therear suspension area is the cause of the needfor replacement.>> Hydro Boost Roundtable| Bob StoneBob summarized the merits of the hydroboost system, compared to the vacuum-boosted OEM system. The key benefit is vastly higher braking pressure with the hydro boost system. He described the procedure for removal of the OEM vacuum booster system and replacement with the hydroboost system. He then discussed a broad array of “frequently asked questions”. A few of them are listed here:• What is a “hydraulic brake assist unit”?• Do I have to install a new master cylinder?• What type of fluid should I use in mypower steering system?• How does this system connect to mypower steering?• Why are these systems so expensive?There was substantial owner participation in the question and answer portion of the session.>> What’s Your GMC Motorhome Question OR: Two Deaf Old Codgers Asking Questions| Walt Halley and Gary KosierA few of the questions:• How to make side windows slide easier? • What’s behind the mirror in side-bathRoyale models?• Treatment of dash to improve appearance? • Source for replacement of door striker bolt? • How best to tow GMC?There was much owner interaction with the moderators during this session.>> Installing the Block Kit| Dick PatersonDick described the installation of the exhaustblock off kit. He stated that the need for it isdriven by a cracked intake manifold and damageto the carburetor due to the very high exhaust gas temperature in the crossover. He cautioned owners on the importance of correct intake manifold gasket thickness. He closed by providing guidance for the restoration of the choke system.MINI TECH SESSIONSThe Mini-Tech Sessions consistof a 15-20 minute tech/ informational sessions that features one thingthat the presenter wishes to share. What is that one thing that you may wish to share? No formal powerpoint presentation or handout required. Email [email protected] for more info.>> Radiators | Jim BuchananJim presented a broad overview of the role ofthe radiator in the GMC Motorhome cooling system and described the features of a replacement aluminum radiator. He asserted that the aluminum radiator is 30 percent more efficient than an OEM replacement.>> Computerized Ride Height Controllers | Keith VasilakesKeith described his replacement of the OEM mechanical ride height sensor with an electronic sensor. That sensor outputs to a microcontroller which corrects/maintains ride height. His system includes a remote control for manual changes toride height.>> Aligning and Adjusting the GMC’s Steering| Alex FerraraAlex graciously repeated his remarks from the last several Conventions on this topic. He described thecharacteristics of misalignment and the steps required to correct it. Alex alwaysconcludes his remarks by imploring all owners to correct any misalignment they mayhave as doing so will result in greatly improved driveability.>> Breaking the Myths of theGMC Motorhome | Jim KanomataJim conducted an informal and entertaining session. Topics he addressed included:• the benefits of a reaction arm braking system • how to avoid “run-on dieseling”• electronic fuel injection and avoidance ofvapor lock• importance of not starting engine or Onangenset and running for less than 15 minutes.>> Two Innovations for GMC Motorhome| Matt ColieKeyless Entry:Matt described hisconversion of theGMC Motorhomedoor lock to keylessentry. He said the mostdifficult part was, gettingthe power and signals to all theplaces it was needed. He illustratedhis remarks with pictures of the hardware and wiring schematics.Inexpensive Screen Door: Matt started his presentation by noting that he adapted an off-the-shelf product to his 23' GMC and that there are likely differences between his installation and that for a 26' GMC. He described the materials necessary for the door and their sources. He next noted the modifications needed to the material for making the door. He showedpictures of the finished and installed product and described its operation.AttendeeCommentLeon the “refrigerator guy” is great. He fixed my refrigerator with a smile! member seven years, fifth ConventionFALL 2017 GMC MOTORHOMES INTERNATIONAL 23