Dialing Down/Up On Our Monaco Acquisition

[Just For Fun]

"All things will change..." Oh well. But we're still in the game.

We've been working toward acquiring a 2007 to 2009 Monaco Dynasty. But, as all things change, we just can't/don't want to take on that level of debt at this time.

But accidentally while viewing ads I came across a 2001 Monaco Signature. WOW!!!! What a beautiful coach. Even at 14 years old. Depending on which one in the Signature line, these originally listed/sold for $500k to $600k. And they look it.

So my questions is: As we look more seriously at Monaco Signature for years 2000 to 2004 - other than the typical pre-qualifiers of checking out any used coach - what specifically should we look for in this series and age grouping:
1. Is one Signature series better/more opulent than the other in that series
2. Diesels of that era - is one manufacturer and engine size better/more desirable that the other
---a. Less/more pollution restrictions
---b. Higher torque/bang for the buck
---c. Higher/lower maintenance
3. What are the best options I should look for
4. Any particular warranty/recall issues in those years
5. What question have I left out???

Thanks for your help.

[Steve Ownby]

My wife and I have lived full time in an '03 Sig, 40' 3 slide, Baroness floor plan for 8 years now. We can't imagine a better coach home. I have no knowledge of any systemic weakness in these coaches. Up through '03 the EPA standards were met without much engine modification. These coaches were built around the Cummins ISM which is a wonderful performer in motorhome service.

We did a major interior remodel in '11 and have up graded the TVs to HD flat screens. The chassis is the Roadmaster S Series chassis which is a semi monocoque design which is very strong. The chassis and house are so well built that they lend themselves to up grades.

If I can give you any specific information please feel free to PM me anytime.


Steve Ownby
Full time since '07

[Old Car Nut]

Originally Posted by Steve Ownby

We did a major interior remodel in '11 and have up graded the TVs to HD flat screens.


Steve Ownby
Full time since '07

You can't post that and not share photos of your remodel.

[Steve Ownby]

Originally Posted by Old Car Nut

You can't post that and not share photos of your remodel.

I happened to have access to these on my Ipad. Not really much of the finished product. The credenza with fireplace replaced a sofa and the J sofa on the other side was replaced with a queen sleeper sofa. The tile flooring was installed front to back replacing carpet and porcelain tile.


Steve Ownby
Full time since '07

[Thunderfoot]

I've owned my '98 Sig since 2000. In addition to mine, the "fleet" we most often travel with consists of a '99, and a pair of '00 models... all Sigs. All of the coaches were purchased "pre owned" and have delivered outstanding service, amenities, and reliability. The handling, ride quality and control, power, towing capacity, and overall fit & finish of these coaches make them an excellent choice. Plus the advantage of fewer emission controls and no DEF requirement tips the scale even further....IMHO. Good luck with your decision and travel safe!

[jdoran1973]

They are beautiful coaches, I too am an admirer. I think Steve's is my new favorite, looks awesome!

[Old Car Nut]

Looking good Steve. Thanks for sharing the pix.

[Smitty77]

I feel you are making a solid switch in direction. An older higher quality coach like the Signature, especially with the ISM vs the ISL that comes in most Dynasty (a fine coach, but just not in the same league as the Signature), and probably in the same price point as few years newer Dynasty - is win/win for you. The ISM in the 2004 and before, will have less smog stuff on them too, not work as hard, and should yield comparable if not even a bit better MPG. I also feel the ride of this heavier rig, with the best Roadmaster suspension, will be superior too.

As Steve, who knows his stuff, mentioned - they are worthy of tossing some serious coin into for remodeling - making it our coach.

One question too, for those that know, does not some Signatures also have the BIG DETROIT engine in them? Another fine engine. Or am I confusing them with some of the Executive models, that I believe slots in between the Dynasty and the Signature?

Happy hunting!
Smitty

[Steve Ownby]

Originally Posted by Smitty77

I feel you are making a solid switch in direction. An older higher quality coach like the Signature, especially with the ISM vs the ISL that comes in most Dynasty (a fine coach, but just not in the same league as the Signature), and probably in the same price point as few years newer Dynasty - is win/win for you. The ISM in the 2004 and before, will have less smog stuff on them too, not work as hard, and should yield comparable if not even a bit better MPG. I also feel the ride of this heavier rig, with the best Roadmaster suspension, will be superior too.

As Steve, who knows his stuff, mentioned - they are worthy of tossing some serious coin into for remodeling - making it our coach.

One question too, for those that know, does not some Signatures also have the BIG DETROIT engine in them? Another fine engine. Or am I confusing them with some of the Executive models, that I believe slots in between the Dynasty and the Signature?

Happy hunting!
Smitty

You called it right on the DD Series 60. Starting in '03 both the Detroit and the Cummins ISX 15 liter were options on the Signature they were available on the Executive also. All the Signature engines were mated to the Allison 4000.


Steve Ownby
Full time since '07

[Just For Fun]

Thanks all.

This info fits in well with our direction. And the upgrading worthiness Steve refers to is specifically why we don't want to do this to our current coach. while it's a nice one, but - IMO - doesn't justify the investment.

[TMan59]

Just my opinion but that 01 sig is way better than 07-09 dynasty.

[Old Car Nut]

My only complaint about the Sig's are the ceilings. Found in many Monaco models for that matter. Reminds me of a disco. Will be the 1st thing to go when we acquire ours.