1985 Blue Bird Wanderlodge PT40

The Year was 1985…

The Wanderlodge PT40 aka “The Tank”.

Does the phrase “Built like a tank” paint images of a massive steel beast ready to conquer the world?

Does 1500 miles of driving range before refueling relieve the anxiety of venturing out?

Do you get excited when you see all the switches, gauges and doohickeys in the cockpit of jumbo jet?

This Blue Bird Wanderlodge offers a glimpse of the past. The conveniences available over 35 years ago. And hints of the future.

Here you will find production details. A glimpse of a few of its unique features. And, finally the likes, dislikes and wisdom from the owner.

Let’s begin.

Wanderlodge PT40 Specifications

Base price: $325,420

Standard Features

Length: 40′
Engine: Detroit Diesel 6V92TA-330HP
Transmission: Allison Automatic 5-speed Automatic with Integral Retarder
Suspension: Ridewell Air Suspension
Generator: Kohler 12.5 Diesel with Perkins Engine
Fuel Capacity: 300 Gallons
Tires: Michelin 11R22.5
Brakes: Full Air
Air Conditioning: Central Air Standard
Tankage:
- Fresh Water-136 Gallons
- Gray Water- 82 Gallons
- Waste Water- 82 Gallons
- LP-45 Gallons

Features (short list from sales brochure)

Awnings All Around
Escort Radar Detector
Central Vacuum
Nutone Food Center
Aluminum Plate on Roof
Blue Bird All American Chassis
Bendix Cruise Control
Closed Circuit Rear View Monitor
Center Walk around Queen Bedroom

Wanderlodge PT40 Floor plan

This RV has the center queen bed with access on 3 sides. Image below is similar with kitchen, dinette and bathroom on opposite sides of the coach.

20 Questions and Answers from a Wanderlodge PT40 owner

1.What Year, make and model is your Vintage RV?

1985 Blue Bird Wanderlodge PT40

2.Why did you get this specific RV?

We love the comfort of a diesel pusher when traveling on the roads, the queen size bed, full bathroom and extensive storage. I also found that the narrow body at 96” wide feels easier to drive down the roads and keep it between the lines.

3.How did you acquire this Vintage RV?

We found this couch posted for sale on the Wanderlodge Owners Group forum (WOG). After several emails and phone conversations another WOG member previewed the RV for us. We made two trips, the first to inspect the RV and secure the purchase. The second to bring it home.

4.How long have you owned this RV?

We have owned this specific Wanderlodge since 2014, almost 7 years.

5.How many miles have you traveled in this RV?

Shortly after bringing the Wanderlodge home life thru some unexpected obstacles in our path in the form of a layoff and health challenges. So we’ve travelled less than 1000 miles in this Wanderlodge.

6.Whats your average MPG with your Wanderlodge PT40?

At 40,000+ pounds this RV squeezes out 5-6 MPG. With a 300 gallon fuel tank the fuel gauge doesn’t move fast but the fuel pump $$$ digits sure do.

7.What are some Unique features of this Vintage RV?

Honestly there are so many neat features in the Wanderlodge its hard to narrow down the list. Diamond plate roof platform, power curtains, built-in toaster, security system on all windows and entry door, air purge for water supply and electroluminescent dash.

8.Whats your Favorite feature of Wanderlodge PT40?

I’m not a fan of putting antifreeze in the water lines when storing so the air purge option at the flip of a switch is very handy. The CruiseAirs A/C units are quiet and the extra headroom is nice.

9.Any unexpected surprises in the time you’ve owned this RV?

We found an invitation to the Clinton inaugurational ball behind cabinet drawers and a medal from a WWI aviator. We’ve tried to find the family of the soldier but haven’t had any luck.

10.What problems have you encountered with the Wanderlodge PT40?

On the voyage home the throttle return springs broke. The throttle stuck wide open and added some excitement. Luckily a rest stop was nearby and we dropped the transmission into neutral and coasted into a parking space without incident. The problem was quickly identified and with a few zip ties and bungy cords we were back on the road.

11.Are there any upgrades you’ve completed on this RV?

The refrigerator has been replaced with an electric only home style. New wood flooring and carpeting. All copper water lines have been replaced with PEX.

12.Whats the best upgrade so far with this RV?

The best upgrade is the refrigerator. The absorption refrigerator was small and didn’t cool very well. The extra interior space is awesome.

13.Any planned upgrades in the future with this RV?

After destroying the batteries by overcharging them the battery charger/inverter a replacement is at the top of the list for upgrades.

14.Do you have a favorite adventure in the Wanderlodge PT40?

Regretfully there’s only been one adventure, the voyage home.

15.Whats 1 thing you would change about the Wanderlodge PT40?

The rear engine bay is incredibly crowded and adding oil to the engine requires a custom funnel and contorting my body. Some of the Wanderlodges have an optional tank for adding oil which would make this much easier.

16.Whats 1 piece of advice you would like to share about the Wanderlodge PT40?

The Wanderlodge was a luxury RV and has all kinds of gadgets which increases the complexity when operating and troubleshooting. Be prepared to spend some time learning how things work along with patience when diagnosing problems.

17.Whats 1 piece of advice for anyone considering a Vintage RV?

An RV is complicated and Vintage RV’s have history so find a group of RV owners that will offer guidance and support. Joining the Wanderlodge Owners Group helped us immensely with figuring out how systems work, common problems and tips to resolve.

18.Whats 1 piece of advice for anyone considering traveling in an Wanderlodge PT40?

The best piece of advice for all RV owners is to get roadside insurance before you go anywhere. They have phone support and will coordinate mobile mechanics if needed and cover towing when neccasary.

19.What would you do different if you could start over?

If we were to do it again I would start sooner, travel more often and not worry so much about the little things. We still have a great time and the memories are awesome.

20.Is there a Bucket List trip in your future?

The Osh Kosh Air Show is an event we have on the must do list and the Wanderlodge is the perfect dry camping RV. Hopefully the rooftop platform will give us a great view of the show and the large storage tanks will provide everything we need for the duration of our stay.