Newbie Chassis Question

kratzkr · 01-02-2014, 05:34 AM

I purchased an '89 Itasca Suncruiser 34RQ last year and am curious as to the chassis that is used for this model. The documentation lists it as having a Chevy 454, etc., etc., etc. Is it a standard Chevrolet chassis used for a motorhome application or is it something else that uses a 454 for motive power?

Thanks for any input!

Kyle

motohomer · 01-03-2014, 09:59 AM

Ask here:
Workhorse and Chevrolet Chassis Motorhome Forum - iRV2 Forums

Go Dawgs · 01-03-2014, 07:38 PM

Based on the model year I would guess it's a P30 Chassis which was from the big block 454. I had an 87 Allegro and it was on the P30. You can also go to the service dept. at any chevy dealer and have them input the Vin# and it will give you all you need on it. I did that with my Class C when I bought it and was able to find all the original specs.

NeilV · 01-04-2014, 12:25 AM

Here is the brochure on your motorhome:
http://media.goitasca.com/models/glo...ruiser-bro.pdf

Here is the parts manual:
http://www.winnebagoind.com/service/...9ic-jm34rq.pdf

Unfortunately operator manuals on-line only go back to 1992.

The two chassis options were John Deer powered by a Ford 460 as optional or the standard chassis from Chevy. If the chassis has independent front suspension with air bags in the coils then it is a P30 Chevrolet chassis. You need to make sure the air bags are kept properly inflated or they will fail if you run them too low or empty as they will get pinched between the spring coils or move about and start rubbing and wear through.

You have a piece of RV History there that with a bit of TLC can be a great bit of fun.

George Schweikle · 01-04-2014, 06:55 AM

The P-30 RV chassis is based on the Chevrolet step van chassis. For older P-30 RV's, many parts can be found here Mill Supply | Snow Plow Parts - Stepvan Parts - Mower Parts - Autobody Restoration Parts

kratzkr · 01-05-2014, 12:59 PM

As usual, the members of this forum are great! Thanks for all of the information

I'm currently trying to compile all of the information on the chassis and the coach itself as I have a bit of work to do and I'm looking forward to getting it restored and out on the road again, soon!!

Thanks again!!

Kyle

kratzkr · 01-05-2014, 01:04 PM

NeilV -

I know it has the independent front suspension, but I haven't (yet) crawled up under there to see if it has the air bags or not. Out of curiosity, where would the inflation port (schrader valve? valves?) be located?

Thanks again!!

Kyle

edgray · 01-06-2014, 02:55 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by kratzkr

As usual, the members of this forum are great! Thanks for all of the information

I'm currently trying to compile all of the information on the chassis and the coach itself as I have a bit of work to do and I'm looking forward to getting it restored and out on the road again, soon!!

Thanks again!!

Kyle

You will probably benefit from reading this OLD thread about the P-series:
http://www.irv2.com/forums/f22/p-ser...ned-21035.html

An 87 model will definitely be a GM product, but Workhorse continued making them until 2005.

If you have a "yellow knob" to release the Parking Brake, you can learn a lot via email to Roger at : [email protected] Roger is the EXPERT on the J71 AAPB, and his help is free to all who ask.
Good luck with your restoration. Ed