Safari questions

[Automobilist]

First, I've tried to register on Safarifriends, but no response. Zero...

We're actively looking for decent, not too old diesel pusher for less than $50k. Most common in that price range seem to be Safari's. Very seriously looking long distance at a 2001 Cheetah 37'. My hesitation is the non-air bag suspension, the rear mounted generator, and the unknown wheelbase. All things that would affect handling / stability. We'll be towing a 16' enclosed race car trailer.

I've read very conflicting reports on the Magnum chassis w/Torsilastic suspension. Appears it's not the best system, and many folks spend considerable money modifying it to perform well. Why buy a coach and then immediately spend another $2-4k making it go straight down the road?

Rear mounted generator. Just seems strange to me. Our last diesel pusher, and every other one I've seen has a front mounted generator, helping achieve proper weight & balance. Are the Safari coaches typically front end light?

Wheelbase. I haven't been able to find real numbers. The Monaco website only goes back to 2002. Photos look like the 2001 37' has a LOT of rear overhang, which would exacerbate rear weight bias, handling, etc. Combine a non-air bag suspension, rear mounted generator (diesel) and possibly a short wheelbase (50% ratio?) and I think it would have squirrely handling. I don't want to fly 1000 miles for a speculative test drive, but the coach is priced very well in comparison to others comparable.

Comments, suggestions, etc, please?

[RV Wizard]

My dad taught me, "You get what you pay for". I also think you have answered your own question. It will have handling issue and they will be exacerbated with the addition of a heavy trailer. I would pass this one up; even if it is priced lower than anything around; there is a reason. You should also be asking what the UVW (unloaded Vehicle Weight), NCC (net carrying capacity) and the GCWR (Gross Combined Weight Rating) are of any coach you are looking at. If you are not sure how you would apply your needs to these weight ratings let us know or do a search in our website for explanation. Good luck, stay safe and keep us posted.

[JohnQ]

Velvet Ride Safaris yah either love them or hate them. I happen to think they are the best things since sliced bread Oh, and I tow a 21 foot Bayliner Trophy Boat/Trailer setup, about 5,600 pounds on the hoof with no problems.

[bbeane]

At one time we where looking at Safari's, saw alot of roof leaks (Flat Roof), and as you are aware the older coaches had hydraulic brakes, when they get older they require more care than air brakes and don't stop as well. We also saw some of the aluminum sided coaches with corrosion problems around the revits. With that said Safari built some beautiful coaches, so if you take a good look and the price is right go for it.
Bruce

[bbeane]

Also forgot to add on my last post, I have in the past used an appraisal service neer where the coach is located, 3-$400.00 they where very detailed inspections(down to scratches on the furnature, date codes on the tires) with pictures. Defenately worth the price, traveling 1000 mi only to find the unit unacceptable would be costly.

[Automobilist]

I think we're going to pass on the Safari coaches. Too many reports of questionable chassis design. Not interested in buying a coach and then spending $3k to make it handle properly. Plus, the rear generators and short wheelbases don't appeal to me.

[nplenzick]

I wouldn't dismiss all Safari coaches but maybe just the one model you were looking at. We have a Sahara DP, generator in the front and we tow a 6800 pound enclosed trailer with ease. It has its good and bad points like any other motorhome.

[Automobilist]

OK, sounds like they figured it out. Unfortunately, every Safari we looked at had the rear mounted generator, and a couple had really short (under 51%) wheelbases. Two Zanzibars also had the hydraulic brakes, and one locked up a front wheel on the test drive...

[xdup]

Speculating about a vehicle you have never seen or driven is futile. Also please don't assume that all coaches of a particular brand have all the problems that you may read about on a forum. Hydraulic brakes do not need more maintenance than air brakes, but if the owner of a rig did not do any maintenance then you have a problem. Bring a friend or friends with you when you go for a test drive, they can be your eyes and ears for how good or bad a used coach is. Buying a used coach is more about how well the previous owner maintained the vehicle than about perceived design flaws.