chastho
arkansas
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Joined: 07/27/2005
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I don't know of any MFG that has a problem with all models in all years, some have had problems with some modes in some years,some are better at taking care of the problems than others. You will get a lot better info if you find a DP you like then ask your questions.
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tropical36
Southwest Florida_USA
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Joined: 07/11/2004
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Well, one things for sure, now is the right time. Prices are down and whoever is still in business or isn't under threat of going under, must have been doing something right. There's also some good prices and quality out there from some of the dead ones, like NATIONAL....and there are others.
I can't offer much else either, wo/getting in trouble, but you may want to focus on some brands and models to consider, rather than the one's to stay away from. Then pick out a few that really interest you and go looking. It might even be a better question to ask for some feedback here.
"We are often so caught up in our destination that we forget to appreciate the journey."
1998 36ft. National Tropi-Cal, with a tag axle and one slide, on a 1997 P32 Chevy chassis....7.4 Vortec Engine
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paged01
Lady Lake, Florida
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Joined: 03/09/2005
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Think about service when you think mfg. I'm very satisfied with my 07 HR Neptune and being close to the Wildwood service center was an important part of my decision... Mileage will depend on size of course... I just returned from a 3500 mile trip and avg'd 10.23 with a tow. 325 ISB and as far as hill climbing.. I'm retired and really don't care about flooring it to see how fast I can make a hill...Good luck with your selection......
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mmsss
Western Oklahoma, USA
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Joined: 11/13/2003
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We've looked at some Tiffens and some Foretravels. The Foretravels are getting a little pricey but a possibility. These are the "levels" of coach we are considering.
Monte
2005 3500 Duramax 4X4 SLT
2003 Alfa Gold 274
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pfunk
Shelby Township, MI
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Joined: 08/12/2008
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In that price range, I dont think youll encounter any major issues, mostly picky complaints.
Ill make a small recomendation since you said mileage. Dont get anything with regen/particulate (2007 mandated),, but thats my preference. I like pre EGR also (2004 mandated some 03 engines had it).
Check with engine manufacturers on when they converted over. mostly everything has a 6 speed in it. Cats require a lash adjustment before 40K (as I found out) anywhare from 300-500 bucks, and rear rads need frequent cleaning
In the price range your going to get full air suspension and full air brakes
2000 Holiday Rambler Endeavor
300 Cat 6spd Ally
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Bumpyroad
Virginia
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Joined: 12/01/2005
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I think I would establish some "must haves" for starters, rather than just go by some brand that might not have had a problem for a certain year. If you want a one piece fiberglass roof, aluminum or fiberglass sides, type of chassis, etc.
bumpy
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CertifiedFunds
Middleburg, Florida
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Joined: 12/06/2005
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I would put value in spending a very very bunch of time going over the coach you like instead of putting one brand in a box. Having said that, Alfa, Fleetwood and Tiffin, would be what I would avoid. Newmar, Country Couch, Winnabego, Foretravel are a few good ones, but that don't mean they don't have bad ones.
Your best choice is to find what you like and get ready to spend some money on fixing certain items.
'06 45' Tiffin Zephyr
'05 F350 Toad
DW Tammy & Son Gage
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PackerBacker
Montreal, Quebec,Canada
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Joined: 08/22/2002
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For determining efficiencies horsepower alone won't tell the true tale; you need to look at vehicle weight, engine torque and gear ratio along with hp. Another variable is transmission type. They all play a role in fuel management and ease in hilly terrain.
Eric
2009 Holiday Rambler Admiral 33SFS
Good Sam's - FQCC/Camping Quebec
My Photos
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virginiarebel
Auburndale, Fl.
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Joined: 04/08/2005
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mmsss wrote:The wife and I are srtongly considering moving up() to a diesel pusher. We've been pulling a 5'ver since '93 and I've pulled trailers of some sort or another since '73. I would like to know brands or models to not even consider because of serious problems in the past. We will be buying a late model, low mileage used unit. Looking for something that listed in the low 200's to low 300's when new in the 350 HP range. We won't be dealing with the factory warranty, so that's not an issue, like it was when we bought the Alfa 5'ver in 2003. We love the 5'ver but had serious warranty problems over little things with Alfa and their extended warranty company, so Alfa motorhomes are out of consideration. We hope that this will be our last purchase and plan on traveling extensively during our retirement.
I would like to know what the serious problems were and costs to repair them. If you had a unit that had just one small problem after another, I'd like to know about that also.
A number of posters keep referring to the OP's price range. He never gave a price range. Note he stated "something that listed in the low 200's to low 300's when new"; not their price in today's market. Without his price range it is difficult to answer his question.
2002 36' Monaco La Palma DBD Ford V-10
2 slides, 2 sinks, 2 potties
Toad - 2001 Saturn SL2 w/Sunroof/CD/Cassette
Falcon All Terrain Hitch & US Gear Toad Brake
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Rocket_Heart
Waterville, Ohio
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Joined: 03/05/2005
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Monaco, Tiffin, Winnebago,Fleetwood. There is a questionaire on this forum about what people drive. Monaco, I believe was the number one diesel coach, all the other are very reputible.
Thomas "Rocket Heart" Emahiser
Anna,DW
Matthew
Alaina
2007 Itasca Suncruiser 35L
8.1 Vortec - 6 speed Allison Trans.
Workhorse W24 Chassis
2001 PT Cruiser (Toad)
Waterville, Ohio
"Go Bucks"
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