Good Spartan Service

GaryKD · 08-21-2008, 12:34 PM

Spartan just finished service on my coach. They did an outstanding job (as usual). If your coach has a Spartan chassis and you can get to Charlotte, Michigan; you can't do any better than have the factory service center work on your chassis. I highly recommend them.

GaryKD · 08-21-2008, 12:34 PM

Spartan just finished service on my coach. They did an outstanding job (as usual). If your coach has a Spartan chassis and you can get to Charlotte, Michigan; you can't do any better than have the factory service center work on your chassis. I highly recommend them.

Chickadee · 08-22-2008, 05:11 AM

Hey, Gary: What's your opinion about changing out Bilstien shocks on our 08, 4502 Essex for the Koni shocks. We don't know if it was our load distribution or what, but we really encountered some rough expressway in S. Minn. on way North to Duluth, and as we're going through Mich. to an appt. at Nappanee on Sept. 22nd., was wondering if it would pay to stop at Spartan in Charlotte, MI, to a.) have fan belt upgrade confirmed or installed, and b.) perhaps have shocks changed. What do you think?? We too have been VERY happy with the way Spartan handles business/recalls/campaigns, etc. Steve & Lynette

OpaRon · 08-22-2008, 05:41 AM

Gary, I always pay close attention to your posts, especially since we have similar coaches (KS - DS.) Would you share what services you had done and the costs? I agree regarding Spartan. My only time there was very good. I wound up getting a free upgrade on my front tires (larger ones) since the originals needed max pressure just to carry the load.

I can't say the same for my experience with Cummins (Boise, ID Cummins Rocky Mountain.) I was WAY over charged and am still in negotiation with corporate to get satisfaction on a simple oil change.

Thanks for sharing you experiences with us newbies.

Doc Mark · 08-22-2008, 07:40 AM

Chickadee - Spartan is replacing my shocks with Koni's as we speak for the same reason, rough ride. I'll post what I think of the change after I have driven on then awhile.

I echo GaryKD's sentiments. If you can get to Charlotte, you won't find a better repair/service facility.

PS GaryKD - it was great meeting you! Safe travels

Mark

GaryKD · 08-22-2008, 03:50 PM

Chickadee,
I feel it is a good choice. I asked Spartan if they would do this for me. They said Koni's were not available for my MM chassis (front).

If I could, I would have the Koni's.

GaryKD · 08-22-2008, 04:08 PM

Hi Ron,
The services performed were:
- replace front wheel bearing lubrication
- replace diferential lubrication
- replace air dryer
- torque rear suspension bolts
- adjust ride height
- check air filter minder
- check belts and tension
- replace transmissaion main + lube filters + top off with Transynd
- check hose clamps + CAC clamps
- two axle allignment
- check coolant hoses
- replace hydraulic fluid
- check belt tensioner
- inspect crank case breather

Paid $669.18

GaryKD · 08-22-2008, 04:12 PM

Doc Mark,
It was great meeting you. Hope we meet again with more time to chat.

OpaRon · 08-22-2008, 05:27 PM

Gary, Thanks for the check list of items done. Some I would have thought of, others not. One other question: when do you know you need a two axle alignment? Are there certain clues to look for the need for an alignment, or was this just PM on your part? I too had great service at Spartan. We are on our way for a final warranty check of a couple of items and a trip to Charlotte would be easy to do.

GaryKD · 08-23-2008, 02:34 AM

Ron,
The two axle alignment is part of my routine PM. I get to Charlotte about every two years so this is a service that is always done. At this time, they are booked through the first part of September. Consider adding a two day buffer to your Newmar appointment and call Spartan, now, to make your appointment with them.

Doc Mark · 08-24-2008, 03:38 AM

Koni update. They make ALL THE DIFFERENCE IN THE WORLD!
Drove nearly to Mackinac yesterday and the ride was remarkable, not dead smooth, but surely a lot better.

Get the Koni's if you can.

Chickadee · 08-24-2008, 05:35 AM

Hey Doc: Thanks for update on Koni's. So are there downsides to changing out the shocks? Steve & Lynette

slabman · 12-13-2008, 06:25 AM

Koni's? What are the ride characteristics with them vs the std. shocks? For example, I experience a hard ride in the front and run a lower tire pressure just to soften it a bit. Are you saying I could increase this pressure and still experience a better ride?
And what does a set of installed Koni's cost?