Community Forums

Johnontheroad · 01-11-2018, 12:18 PM

We're looking at a used 2010 4508 Essex, with a Cummings ISM500 engine. Most coaches we see of this size have a 600HP engine, wondering what the group opinion is of this engine/coach combo? We do tow a 4,300 lb. GMC Denali if that makes a difference....

Our other option is a 2013 Essex with a Cummings 500ISX...

Thanks for your insights.

John

Mr_D · 01-11-2018, 12:24 PM

Have a friend with a 2007 Essex and the ISM. He could pull away from me in our previous '02 DSDP with ISC 350 and Banks kit in the hills. Acceleration was about the same but the higher torque of the ISM won out.
I guess it depends on your perception of what is enough.

BonanzaFlyer · 01-11-2018, 12:37 PM

I have the 2008 Essex with ISM500, I have no issues with power. I tow a Jeep Grand Cherokee Summit, and usually have the basement pretty loaded up. Best of luck.

Johnontheroad · 01-11-2018, 12:39 PM

Thanks, Mr. D. I would be comparing it to my Monaco Camelot which weighs about 15,000 lbs less with a 425HP Cummins ISL. That means I can drive up Colorado passes and at least keep up with most of the 18 wheelers.

John

alan1 · 01-11-2018, 01:32 PM

The 600 hp Cummings uses a 15 liter engine, the 500 hp ISM is about a 12 liter.

twojayhawks · 01-11-2018, 01:44 PM

Just guessing the coach you are looking at has an unloaded weight of maybe 45,000 or so? With 500 HP & 1500 torque it would have better power than many newer units.

Stealth01 · 01-11-2018, 03:16 PM

As you see in our signature, 2011 Essex, Cummins 500 ISM with ~55 K miles all over the US. Normally cruise at 62 MPH with out any issues... We climbed I-70 to the Johnson Tunnel at 35 to 40 MPH loaded towing a CRV. The other "joy" of the 500 ISM... NO DEF!!

Johnontheroad · 01-11-2018, 06:41 PM

Thanks, but as luck would have it someone made a down payment while I was contemplating the purchase. Back to the drawing board...

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Iron Man · 01-12-2018, 07:47 AM

Any ISM 500 engine in a Newmar Essex has no DPF exhaust and therefore needs no def. The engine remained unchanged from 2006 and was in the Essex until I think 2011. Somehow Cummins got a reprieve for the ISM engine and Newmar took advantage of it.