1999 Dutch Star 38 300 HP on Spartan Chassis

[gmccausland]

I am a new owner since July of a 1999 Newmar Dutch Star on a Spartan Chassis. I have been lurking on this board for a couple of years and I have learned a lot in that time so thank you in advance to everyone.

I was looking to build on the experience this board may have with the Spartan frame and maintenance. What "gotchas" should I look out for? It is scheduled for maintenance in January and the previous owner appears to have taken it into Spartan every year. Currently drives well and seems to have no issues. Minor issue with rear airbags going down very quickly once system is shut down, but appears to hold pressure going down road?

Any nightmares I should look for or pre empt would be a great assistance.

Thanks to all of the input I am sure I will get. I hope to be able to begin contributing soon as well.

George

[GaryKD]

Hi George,
For me, it would be to continue the recommended maintenance per the Spartan maintenance schedule. Besides the usual fluids and filters consider having the ride height checked. If ride height is adjusted, an alignment should also be done (after ride height). There are also a considerable number of Zerk's that need to be pampered with new grease.

[gmccausland]

Gary , thanks for the reply. I knew that Newmar was a good brand, but it seems that based on the response, nothing untoward with the manufacturer. I know we have enjoyed the coach so far and we will continue to use it next year.

Thanks again.

George.

[RUFINIT]

You most likely have an air leak in your suspension somewhere. It should hold air for a day or more and gradually go down. Your compressor is running to keep the air up when driving. Should be an easy fix. Probably a cracked connector or something simple.

Not only does Newmar make a great product and provide good service, so does Spartan. I am happy with the service I have received from both. You made a good choice.

[RicksDP]

I just replaced my rear ride height valve with a Ridewell ride height valve(120.00), truck shop hear in town charged 157.00 to replace and set both front and rear ride heights. They also changed the desicant filter(176.00 for filter) and drained the air tanks for another 98.00. YMMV