If the fridge has an ammonia leak, a new core should make it well - that's a lot simpler than replacing the whole unit. Conrad Bennett put in an inverter on mine that kicks in (when on) when the 120VAC is disconnected. The Norcold I have switches over to LPG when the 120VAC (direct or through the converter) is disconnected.

My Zip-Dee awnings have a catch (hook and loop) to engage when the awnings are stowed.

Thank you so much Gentlemen for all the interesting discussions and guidance. Three things I have learned from reading through the last 10 posts:
- I have a LOT to learn about my Barth, my awnings and my fridge.
- I have found the right bunch of experienced enthusiasts to get all of my questions answered (many more to follow, I assure you).
- I am SO glad I am not a moderator and am fully comfortable with my limited edit privileges.
I will head to Iowa on 20 May to pick up my beloved Barth in Clinton and start the trek back across to Colorado. Mechanically, it took about $5,700 in parts and labor to make it fully road worthy. I still have the fridge, the awning, all the internal systems (water, gas, generator, heating, AC, toilet etc.) to get through, as well as over $3.00 per gallon of gas at 6 MPG to get back home to Colorado. Now that's all provided my valve seats don't tank from unleaded gas use. Adventure? You bet! I'll be $10K into this little family heirloom project before you can say "flat screen TV"! I'll post some pictures when I get there and keep you updated on my progress. Sure hope at some place in the not-too-distant future I will get to meet all of you face to face. Thanks again for the information and keep the guidance coming!

Ken
'84 Barth Regal 28"

From my Department of Redundancy Department: A major charm of a Barth is that it won't fall apart faster than you can piddle with it.

The major anti-charm is that, because Barths are hardy, durable coaches, they snuggle up to you and make insistent suggestions for "enhancement$". Be prepared for your Regal whining a bit for New Things...

As far as gas, I've never had a problem burning regular unleaded, and if I keep it under 70 I get about 9mpg,or even 10 at 60. With no cross winds it's fairly comfortable at 80 but then I drop to 5 or 6.

Ken, we are in Florida right now but should be home next week. if you are taking your trek across I-80 west through Des moines we are about 22 miles west of the west mixmaster. we have a space to park with 50 amp hookup. 2 miles north of the interstate. downside is 2 miles of gravel and i don't even come close to the knowledge of many on here, ie...not real mechanical and electrically challenged.
That offer goes out to ANY Barther by the way.

Thanks Ironsides for the hospitable invite. I'll keep that in mind as I make my way across. I'm having some of the interior system assessments done at Terry Frazer RV in Eldridge outside Davenport. Depending on how long that takes, I may just take you up on the offer. I'll keep you posted as I get closer.

Ken