Page 16 - Summer 2018 GMC Vintage RVing

Technical Corner MAINTENANCE, PARTS, TIPS, INNOVATIONS AND MORERedoing the Galley on a 1977 GMC RoyaleElmer Tinti | 1977 Royale | Hartland, WisconsinFirst, I removed the big heavy microwave and the four-burner stove and oven. After that, the upper and lower cabinetswere removed (some had damage from water leaks). Then, I purchased a two-burner stove top, a small microwave, and TV. Now I had the sizes needed to remake the cabinet frames.The door and drawer opening dimension were given to a cabinet shop and they made raised panel fronts followed by a purchased Corian counter top with a built in sink (see photo). Once all the frames and door fronts we done, a painter stained and sealed everything. Now everything was readyto be installed into the motorhome.The TV went behind the driver seat in the upper cabinet on a swing out door (see photo). The microwave was on the opposite end of the counter area. The two-burner stove top was installed below the microwave. Along with all of this, new lighting was installed, built into the underside of the upper cabinets that work off a single switch.Now there is a lot more cabinet space in the area that was previously used for the stove, oven, and microwave, plus it freed up the area where the TV used to sit. It is looking pretty good!Editor’s note: Elmer did a fantastic job upgrading his GMC galley! He is fortunate to have craftsmen in his area that are willing to work with him on a project like this. The wood finish is beautiful, and the Corian counter rivals anything seen in today’s RVs. The TV cabinet is very clever and functional. The quality and workmanship in Elmer’s GMC is wonderful, and I hope to see it in person somewhere down the road!Starter TroubleAfter firing up your vehicle countless times without issue, it is easy to take a well-functioning starter for granted.However, it is important to stay alert and know the warning signs of a failing starter, so the necessary replacement or repairs can be made as soon as possible. Here are a few of the red flags to keep in mind when attempting to start your engine...1. Slow StartIf your vehicle repeatedly and slowly cranks before the engine starts, it is typicallya sign of starter problems.It can, however, also be a warning sign of other system troubles, such as a dying battery or faulty spark plugs. The vehicle should be inspected/repaired as soon as possible to prevent more serious issues.2. No StartIf nothing happens when you turn the key, the blame usually falls on a burned-out motor or solenoid, but electrical issues and dead batteries can also lead to starter failure. Like slow starts, this warning sign can also signal system-wide problems, making the assistance of an experienced DIYer or professional mechanic necessary to avoid future complications.3. Dimming LightsDimming internal lights might seem like a nice mood change when starting your vehicle, but it is a warning sign of some potentially serious electrical problems requiring repairs. When there is a short circuit in the starter’s wiring, it draws excess electricity from other systems and makes the lights dim. This issue can also be accompanied by a chugging sound, signaling malfunctions with the bearings in the starter motor.4. Grinding NoisesInstead of electrical problems, grinding noises while starting your vehicle is a sign of mechanical issues typically involving the gears connected to the motor. There are several possible problems, such as the gears not shutting off after startup or being worn down or the motor sitting incorrectly on its mounting.16 GMC VINTAGE RVING MAGAZINE | GMCMI.COMRed Flags