New here..any Advice on 2001 Dutch star?

[Rollly]

We are looking at a very nice 2001 Newmar Dutch Star. This unit is a 35' motorhome with a Ford drive train, single axle and one slide. Does having the ford v10 engine indicate that it uses the same chassis as a similar sized motor home built by another manufacturer of the same vintage, such as a Damon Intruder?

It has 32,000 miles on it and has been extremely well cared for and stored indoors it's entire life. It has not been smoked in or even cooked in.

The owner is asking $42,500. Can anyone offer any insight on this model and/or whether the price is too high for an exceptionally nice one? I already know that the price is higher than the NADA published value.

How would this unit comapre with a Damon Inturder of the same year and size with a Ford drive train?

Any comments would be appreciated.

Thank you,
Roland

[becks]

As you say price is high. I would put it above the Damon.

[GaryKD]

Hi Roland,
Welcome to iRV2. One can ask any price one wants for their coach. One can offer what one believes it is worth for them to buy. After completing your research, do not hesitate to make an offer you are comfortable with. With the RV market at historic lows, sellers need to adjust their view of value or be ready to wait several years for the same price.

Comparing a Newmar Dutch Star to a Damon Intruder will always be subjective. Like becks, I put Newmar above Damon. The bottom line is to look at the things that are most important to you. Floor plan, GVWR, NCC, GVWR, engine, tranny, quality of coach construction (wood or aluminum, how about the spacing of the wall studs - are they on 16" centers). Is the interior laminate or real wood? Run the generator and see if it powers the big appliances (both A/C units at the same time). Drive the coach(es) on highway and local roads. Are the maintenance records available and verifiable? Garaged or not, the roof needs to be looked at closely. Look inside the cupboards and all over the interior ceiling for signs of water. Be prepared to reseal or Eternabond the roof seams. With a motor coach, it is usually not abuse that gets an owner repair bills; it is lack of use.

[Latitude]

Rollly
Gary gives some good advice, also check tire, batteries and for sure get it weighed and four corner if possible to determine your CCC( Cargo Carrying Capacity)
Rick

["007"]

Welcome Rollly to the Newmar forum and irv2.
Here is a 2000 Newmar same mileage but more money for comparison. It does have some good upgrades in its listing you can check on the one your interested in.
2000 DutchStar

The TV's will need to be upgraded and as everyone has pointed out will need attention. Good luck in your quest and remember its a "Newmar."

[Baby Bear]

Let me offer some first hand experience: My previous RV was a Damon Intruder. Believe me, there is NO comparison! Newmar is far superior in both quality and customer service.

[Mikeeg]

I have a 2001 D/S 34' Ford double slide which I paid 58,900 for two and a half yrs ago when prices where up. We have put 12k miles on it and love it. This is one well made RV not the low line Rv that have cardboard walls and faux wood cabinets, oak all over and gelco sidewalls with great workmanship.The price does not sound out there but in this market you may be able to work the seller a little. Go for it and good luck.!!!!!