OK, I am a girl. I know some about engines, but not enough. So...
From what I know, the old rule of thumb for how long to keep a gas engine vehicle was 80,000 miles. ( Keep in mind I am a girl.) How long to keep is defined as having no major mechanical problems (greater than 2K worth).
How many miles can you expect a gas engine (RV) to last (in miles) in 2000 models or later?
100,000 miles without any serious problems is not unlikely, but that assumes that oil and filter changes were made every 3000, miles and the engine was not run hard (not necessarily gently either). Also regular service. I've know people who went 150,00 without an overhaul. But eventually things wear out. The trick is to do the work when it first starts to be a problem. So regularly checks of compression, oil analysis, and other things is important. An oil analysis will tell you what an engine's condition is. And is doesn't cost that much. Don't forget the transmission. That needs regular service as well. I've had to replace two transmissions in cars because the previous owner didn't have them serviced.
Now if you consider the whole RV, if taken care of it could last for a lifetime. I see RV's from the 80's a lot.
And stop excusing yourself because you are female. Some of the best mechanics I have ever known are women. My sister was the first woman to be a certified auto mechanic in Washington state back in the 70's when they started requiring certification. She maintained ambulances. My daughter took the auto mechanics course in high school and was one of the top in her class. Ability as a mechanic has no gender.
80,000 might be accurate for pre fuel injected engines but I would give a 2000 model engine 150,000 to 200,000 or more if it is used and serviced regularly. IMHO
200,000 miles. Workhorse book says this about the gas 8.1 engine they use. Had a Bounder Ford V-10 with 85,000 miles that was going strong with no abnormal oil consumption and no plug change when I traded it in.
Today's engines are much improved over yesterday's engines and the lubricants are much better. Also believe cooling is much better today which improves engine life. And newer than year 1999 means a good, modern engine plus a better chassis.
Yes, I can remember when 100,000 miles was tops on a car engine. Heck, my 1931 Chevrolet required an engine rebuild after 60,000 miles. Rebore, new pistons, re-ring and re-valve.
Also "If you treat the machinery with kindness, it will reward you with long life."
I just sold my 27' 84 Itasca class A with a P30 454 that has 93,000 miles on it and is good to go for a lot more. I serviced it regularly (5000 miles) and the tranny every 15,000 miles. I have 2 friends with similar coaches and their tranny's died at 65,000. Lack of service!!!! I just replaced the one for my friend and the tranny fluid was nasty burned. He did not remember when it was last serviced.
Take care of your fluids and the motor will take care of you.
IF (notice the caps) a 2000 or later gas MH is maintained well, 150,000-200,000 miles would be expected. The transmission must also be maintained well if it is to last as long.
If the original owner used cheap oil, didn't change it on time (including before he stored it for the winter), or didn't take good care of his cooling system, then all bets are off.
Does the DH want a new MH???
Mark
2000 Itasca Suncruiser 35U on a Ford chassis
2003 Ford Explorer toad with US Gear brakes,
ReadyBrute tow bar, and Demco base plate.
I saw a small car once that had about 20000 miles on it and the owner brought it in for service. The oil dipstick was dry and crusty... never once checked or changed the oil. The engine was toast.
Longevity depends on maintenance... simple as that.
Our Blazer is at just over 120K right now. We've had it regularly maintained and hope to keep it longer. It's not an RV, but it is our current tow vehicle.
Husband: Derek
Dog: Bucky
RV: 2000 Aerolite 19RB TT
TV: 1996 Chevrolet Blazer 6 cyl. 4WD
This car used to be our toad, now is our TV!
98 Pathfinder, just turned 200,000 last month. Runs like a champ. We use it for towing our 18ft TT. Just returned from a 1200 mile trip, trouble free. Who wants to buy a high mileage SUV? Decided I will go for 300,000 miles.
Keep in mind I am a girl.) How long to keep is defined as having no major mechanical problems (greater than 2K worth).
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