Keep 2005 Itasca 33' v10 or go to diesel 34'

[cuemaker]

I think I would like to go to a diesel MH. I hear the ride is better. I have a '05 suncruiser 33v, v10, 310 hp and am looking at a 2007 HR Neptune 34' 325hp. I also am looking at a 2005 Winnebago Journey 300hp turbo diesel 32t. I really like the floorplan on my 33v, but it rides so rough at times.
Any thoughts of helpful information would be appreciated... I have a chance to take both diesels for a ride this week and that may be the deciding factor...

[emiddleb]

I'll comment since I made a similar jump a couple years back, going from a 36' gasser to a 40' DP.

First and foremost, make the jump only if the new unit suits your needs better... floorplan etc being #1. You will drive it sometimes but you will live in it always. What don't you like about your existing unit and will the new one(s) suit you better? Do you drive your RV enough that it is worth making the move to get a (hopefully) better ride?

Personally, I did find the ride to be better. Usually when you 'go diesel' you are getting a package that is more than just the different engine and torque... you are getting a different style of suspension, wheel cut, air bags, etc. A rear engine that reduces the cabin noise. The total does change the driving experience.

You are also taking on a lot more... the maintenance is more complex and demanding, and certainly more costly. You don't mention if you are familiar with diesels. If you are not, the learning curve can be 'fun.' 'What the heck are dessicant filters?' 'Bio additives?' Etc. HOW much for an oil change??? Depending upon the chassis you may find there is a training class available (such as Camp Freightliner) and if so you should take advantage of it.

Guess what I'm trying to say is that most will probably say they prefer the DP experience but it comes with a price. Be sure that all the other factors (living design, condition of unit, etc) are there first. Be sure to check the maint logs on both units... playing catch-up for someone's lack-of-maintenance can be very expensive in a DP.

Test driving each unit is very smart. But don't do so unless you are fairly certain you'll want to make the swap and the spouse likes the unit. You will most likely get hooked.

Anyways, just my opinion...

[Belgique]

If money is no object, then why not? We have thousands of miles (including rough roads in Mexico and South Carolina) on our 35U/J V-10's and find them both fine in terms of ride and sounds. Floor plan is the most impt thing, IMHO. Plus, I like it that most any modern shop can work on a V10. But, that's just me.

[Chuck 1935]

I have a 34ft Itasca Meridian, the same as a Journey, it too is a Pusher. I have driven both gas and diesel but prefer the diesel for it's power, and being rear engined, it is very quiet. My feeling is that if you will be doing a lot of driving a diesel will be more satisfactory. For shorter trips a gas coach will give you the biggest bang for your buck. I like the 34ft because you can get it into state and federal parks where they won't let the longer coaches in. This is my opinion only. Your test drives will give you the answers you are looking for. Good luck !!

[Jackhal1949]

Like Chuck 1935, We have the Winnebago 34H Journey with the 350hp CAT very much like his Itasca. We love the coach and it is very quiet. The floor plan is really good and it has lots of storage room for a 34' rig. It rides really good and very smooth. We like it as well that we can get into just about any state or national park. But, diesels do have a much higher maintenance cost than a gasser. To me the cost is worth it, but there is nothing wrong with owning a gasser. MFIL has an 03 35U Adventurer and loves it and travels from Mass to south Texas every winter. If you drive a diesel be prepared to buy one as the ride is really better and different than a gasser. Good Luck and Happy RVing!!

[bellsharbor]

Ed and Joie did a nice job with their response. As someone who just did the opposite and came out of 3 diesels (36'--39') and purchased a 31' gas I agree with their information. I did it to simplify all the systems and lower operating costs. Retirement income just goes so far! We are happy with the new coach, the Ford chassis and V-10. The ride is not bad. Good luck with whatever you decide.

PS. Stay with a Winnebago!