buying a used Alpine

[ClarkBowen]

I'm looking at 2003 to 2005 Alpine 34' and 36' coaches. Front and mid-door and 350 and 400 horsepower. I'd appreciate any thoughts on what I should look for and look out for.
BTW, Hello Gary, Claudia, Gary and Renee.

[ClarkBowen]

I'm looking at 2003 to 2005 Alpine 34' and 36' coaches. Front and mid-door and 350 and 400 horsepower. I'd appreciate any thoughts on what I should look for and look out for.
BTW, Hello Gary, Claudia, Gary and Renee.

[RVRONINPA]

Clark
I think it is always best to look at a new one first so you have a reference point and price. Then make sure you look at the maintenence records and take it to a dealer and have it gone over with a list of items that may need future attention so you can put a real cost factor to it. If it is private owned it is alot of times a hard transaction as their is usally emotions attached to it.
I think what you will find used will be very nice as most Alpine owners take great pride in their coaches and it shows. Good luck and if you need any help or have any questions let me know. Ron

[ClarkBowen]

Thanks Ron...

Have you been to see Ron yet? he has some nice New ones? And some Good prices should check it out before you buy!

[EngineerMike]

I recommend taking the coach, once you have a deal agreed contingent on having the rig checked out by your mechanic, to a shop where they can read & hopefully print out the engine's history record. That shop will also be able to run the engine and tell whether the various computer inputs are nicely w/in spec.

[ClarkBowen]

Engineermike..... Thanks I will ask for those checks.
Crosscountryjim..... I sent Ron a PM this evening.
Thanks to both of you.
I notice that no one mentions any specific Alpine issues for any individual years or changes that make newer years possibly more desireable.
Any thoughts on that?

Clark

[Mule Skinner]

See if you can get hold of the Brochures for the years you are interested.
One thing I would point out is that from 03 to 04 there were changes in the electrical system. The Brochures show a bare chassis and you will see a lot cleaner looking set up on the 04. Also added 2 more house batteries.
I waited to find a 04 for these reasons. I'm not saying the older system was less dependable but 2 more Batteries are a plus.
I would (and did) put the 400 hp at the top of the list!
Good Luck in your search,

[ClarkBowen]

Thanks Dan and Patty...this is very helpful.

Clark

[LOVE2DRIVE]

Clark
Call Ron he will help you as he seems very knowledgable and he will put you first. He also has some good inventory check it out at www.keystonervcenter.com

[takepride]

Clark:

Don't be afraid of the 2003. Mine was made in May of '02 and has six house and two chassis batteries. It also came with RV Surge Guard, 100 watt solar, 400 ISL, king bed, etc. After reviewing all the years (including 2008) and all the floorplans, I'm still convinced the 2003 40FDTS is the best, especially for the price.

More importantly, the '03 seems to avoided many of the problems that have plagued Alpine like radiators, slides and hydro-hots. The inverter problems are inherent in all years (I changed mine to a Xantrex RS3000).

California Coach Company has an '03 recently listed, it looks nice, and the price is good. Good luck.

[Chuck Thomas]

HI Clark. My '03 has 6 house batteries as well. WRV makes changes within a model year as it becomes prudent for them to do so. Therefore, take each coach as you see it, and go from there. Good luck.

[ClarkBowen]

Thanks Chuck
The other item that seems to be on everybody's list is the 400 horsepower Cummins.

Clark

[takepride]

Clark:

The Cummins 400 hp ISL engine has been optional since at least 2002 and standard since 2005. Most coaches listed for sale, manufactured since 2002 are 400 ISL's. Mine is 400-hp.