43' MADP Questions on Driving

[Trehcub]

I am looking at getting a MADP. I cannot decide between the 40' or the 43'.

My current coach is 38'. I would like to here from people who have owned or do own coaches that are 43' or longer.
Do you have any problem with campground or driving when having to go thru cities.

As well as suggestions on driving a long coach.

I do not need to here from people who have never driven a coach of this length and just think they know of the problems with a coach this long.

[Trehcub]

I am looking at getting a MADP. I cannot decide between the 40' or the 43'.

My current coach is 38'. I would like to here from people who have owned or do own coaches that are 43' or longer.
Do you have any problem with campground or driving when having to go thru cities.

As well as suggestions on driving a long coach.

I do not need to here from people who have never driven a coach of this length and just think they know of the problems with a coach this long.

[palmetto]

I have a 4304 and usually pull a 16' enclosed trailer, which has about a 20' overall length. I used to pull the same trailer with a 36' coach on a Freightliner XC chassis. My observations:
1. The 43' Spartan is surprisingly manueverable with its ample wheel cut.
2. Even though maneuverable, the unit is real long. You must have an "exit stratagy" before committing to a parking lot, fuel stop, etc.
3. Be prepared to bump over curbs with the trailer when necessary.

If you're not pulling anything, the 43' is no problem.

[Steve Bloom]

I have the 4301 and have driven it 32k miles from coast to coast and partially through Mexico.Are there some campgrounds that I can't access, yes, but there are campground listings: Trailer Life, Woodalls, FMCA that notate large rig access. With the 55 degree wheel cut, I can actually turn the rig in a shorter diameter than my previous 37' coach. The only additional driving "skill" to be learned is what is taught at truck and bus driver's schools, "make the turn when your but is perpendicular to the street/road you are turning into." You also have a tag axle dump that takes some pressure off the tag wheels, but you will still drag the tires on the turn. Good luck in your decision making process and do take the rig out for several test drives until all yourquestions are answered.

Steve Bloom
04MADP 4301

[palmetto]

Hey Steve, what's your understanding of the proper use of the tag axle dump? My dealer said it was only needed when backing up, making a tight turn. He claimed that it was not needed when moving forward. The Spartan manual that came with my coach does not explain the tag axle dump.

[Steve Bloom]

Your dealer is correct. The "dump" feature takes air out of the tag axle air bags and permits tighter turns and less drag, although you wil scuff the tag tires even with the switch depressed. It's a rocker panel and you wouldn't want to hold it down while driving, pretty cumbersome. :-) I think there is a speed sensor that activates above a low moh setting that prohibits the air dump from working when driving over 10-15 mph.

[Lug_Nut]

The tag axle release is only available for activation in 1st gear and reverse. As soon as the transmission shifts to 2nd. the air returns to the axle suspension. This is the way I beleive most work.