Community Forums

Barrier2 · 09-22-2009, 10:04 AM

Hello all, I am new to the Forum and New to Monaco motorhomes, I need some help. I am looking to purchase a 2000 Monaco Diplomat mod 38A. I have not seen the Motorhome in person yet but I have seen many photos. The unit is being sold by the relatives of the original owner. It looks very good but I am concerned about the actual engine that is in it. I was told it is a 315hp Cummins, the photo shows a top view of the engine and on the valve cover is a Cummins Logo with 24 valves on the second line . The cover itself has 4 notches or scallops on the bottom below the 24 valve stamp.Is this the ISB or the ISC engine. It is a long distance to see and I would rather be sure before I travel.
thanks
Barrier

rex · 09-22-2009, 01:29 PM

That is a Cummins ISC 315 hp engine. Good engine and should have plenty of power for that coach. Drove one just like that across the county several years ago and that engine preformed great. You will need to make sure to keep the coolant system balanced with the correct additive required by Cummins. Check it twice a year. That engine may also have a coolant filter on the same side as the oil filter. If it does, there will be a valve at the top that you turn 90 degrees to cut off the water flow when changing the filter, and make sure it is turned back on. Change coolant filter at each oil change.

The ISC is also an electronic engine and the coach should have an Allison 3000 transmission.

I have the same engine with 330 hp in my current coach.

Barrier2 · 09-22-2009, 06:48 PM

Thank you REX that does ease my mind.
Now to make the choice... 2000 Diplomat-2001 Dynasty, both with different issues.
Barrier

rex · 09-22-2009, 08:58 PM

Well the Dynasty would be the better choice assuming both look about the same as far as condition. Price would be higher, but it is a better coach, and heavier also and will drive better. Some 2000 diplomats came with 255 size tires and they were to small for the weight. Also check the DOT date code on tires for both coaches. If 5 years old get ready to replace them soon.

If either coach has an LP generator - run. If the Dynasty has an Aqua-Hot system, know that it can be a problem to repair.

Barrier2 · 09-25-2009, 02:07 PM

Hello all,
Rex I am going for the '01 Dynasty. This is a 36' Model with 1 slide. It offers more and the price is close enough to the Diplomat (the Diplomat was a 2000 38A). The Dynasty has the 350 ISC engine with many bells and whistles most I really don't need but they might be fun as long as they continue to work.
I look forward to asking many more questions and hopefully receiving answers.
Barrier