The Silence is Deafening - 2016 Axle Weights

[LK23]

I recently posted a thread about a much discussed topic (2016 front axle weights) and received few replies.

This is an extremely important topic for us. We live full-time in our Tiffin 2012 Allegro Bus and basement storage is critical. I was about to seek bids from 7 Newmar dealers for a 2016 Dutch Star 4369. Then I read the many posts with concerns expressed about the front axle weights on the 2016 models. I halted my pursuit of a new Dutch Star until I can sort out the front axle weight issues.

If you have any information regarding the 2016 Dutch Star front axle weights, please send me a private message. I promise to keep your information confidential.

Rex

[ekim]

I can't help you with weight info. I've noticed the lack of info too.


Maybe the pot needs a little stirring

It seems that when balancing weight and storage, the Tiffin 40 foot non tag bus is now in direct competition with the Newmar 43 foot Dutch Star.

[LK23]

Agreed. I measured my storage and it is just a little less than the Dutch Star 4369 and about 25% more than the DS 4018 as measured on the dealer's lot.

[FRasco]

I don't understand, what issue? Several people posted their weights and all were fine.

I will be there next week picking up my new DSDP, I will post weights for sure as well.

[LK23]

The posted weights were 2015 models. The concern is in regard to the 2016 43 foot models. It seems the carry capacity has been reduced in 2016 and possibly getting close to the front axle limits. Not yet confirmed. Still seeking additional information.

[SWag]

Frank,

I believe nobody has posted the front axle weight of a 2016 Dutch Star, plenty of 2015 information but not what Rex is looking for. It is unusually quiet.

[BobGed]

Originally Posted by LK23

The posted weights were 2015 models. The concern is in regard to the 2016 43 foot models. It seems the carry capacity has been reduced in 2016 and possibly getting close to the front axle limits. Not yet confirmed. Still seeking additional information.

Looks to me that they have the 2016 info posted on their site
Dutch Star motor coach specs | Newmar Am I missing something?

[LK23]

Yes, the specs on the Newmar site and the 2016 brochure have half of the equation—the axle limits and the front axle has a limit of 17,000 lbs. What is missing is the actual front axle weight of the coach after loaded with fuel, water, and personal items.

The CCC (Cargo Carrying Capacity) is different for every coach because it is based on the weight of the coach with installed options. This number has decreased from 2015 to 2016. The DS 4369 I toured at a dealer listed the CCC as 4533. After loading the coach with fuel, water and personal items, it is compared to this, not to exceed, number.

Most importantly, the loaded weight of each axle is compared to the axle limits and those numbers are also used in determining the axle tire pressures. In regard to the 2016 Dutch Stars, the front axle may be close to or exceeding the 17,000 lb limit. Once again, this has yet to be confirmed.

[BobGed]

Originally Posted by LK23

Yes, the specs on the Newmar site and the 2016 brochure have half of the equation—the axle limits and the front axle has a limit of 17,000 lbs. What is missing is the actual front axle weight of the coach after loaded with fuel, water, and personal items.

The CCC (Cargo Carrying Capacity) is different for every coach because it is based on the weight of the coach with installed options. This number has decreased from 2015 to 2016. The DS 4369 I toured at a dealer listed the CCC as 4533. After loading the coach with fuel, water and personal items, it is compared to this, not to exceed, number.

Most importantly, the loaded weight of each axle is compared to the axle limits and those numbers are also used in determining the axle tire pressures. In regard to the 2016 Dutch Stars, the front axle may be close to or exceeding the 17,000 lb limit. Once again, this has yet to be confirmed.

And that other part of the equation is something you will never know until you purchase the coach and load it based on your preferences. Some people like to carry a lot of tools, others don't. Some people like to carry a fully mounted spare, others don't, etc, etc. There are just too many variables based on individual preferences.

["007"]

LK23, you must have missed this thread that covers your concerns about the front end weights.
The changes of chassis platform and added weight of full tiled FWS will cut into what you can place up front of your new coach.
Weight issues are old as time dependent on chassis platforms and the distribution of placements of owners possessions have always cause a problem of where to place them, didn't matter if it was a gas coach or DP.
The added support of the FWS is going to cause your problem its your choice to carry more stuff, with different floor plan or less, because you want the FWS.
The MFG's are using the same platforms these days if you want to carry all you feel you need maybe another MFG will meet your needs, some people tow a box trailer to satisfy that need.

[FRasco]

I thought Steve posted his weights two weeks ago.

[LK23]

Correct me if I am wrong, I have read the previous posts and the coach weights listed by owners are for 2015 models or older. The concern is with the 2016 models.

[bluepill]

Rex - Along with your price requests, ask dealers to take a photo of the weight certification information on the exact model that you are considering.

[dbeck]

My 2016 4369 is pushing 17,000 on the steering axle when full of fuel and half full water. 25,000 on drive and tag.