Community Forums

SLK · 08-18-2014, 07:06 PM

I'm a retired railroad engineer living in S.Calif., looking to see as much of this Continent as we can. My wife and I have 2 Shiba Inu dogs that we would like to take with us. I don't know how practical this would be as they are not off leash dogs and have a strong prey drive.

We've been searching the net for a DP that has the higher ceiling, as I am 6'4" tall. So We're looking at 2006 -2008. I really like the 2008 National Pacifica 40 E, but don't know if it would be better to go with a company that's still in business. I personally like Cummins and would like to know if it is worth going for the 8.9 400hp over the 8.3 360hp. The 8.9 is more $"s and may not be worth it. Are there any issues with getting the low sulfur fuel the newer engines need? We are also looking at HR and Monaco. We are leaning toward coaches with a full wall slide. I want it all. Quality on a budget. There are what appear to be good deals, but they appear to have been sitting for a while. I do know diesel's like to run. Is there such a thing as lot rot?

Any advice would be greatly appreciated. Thanks, Stephen

Fred1609 · 08-18-2014, 07:10 PM

Hi Stephen...you've chosen a great activity for your retirement....There's bound to be a good rig for a tall fellow like you and I'm sure if you head over to some of the forums you will get a lot of helpful advice. My advice would be to take your time in researching the Class A that interest you.

Safe and Happy Travels.

vsheetz · 08-18-2014, 07:14 PM

Welcome!

Browse the various forums, use the search feature, ask questions. Lots of good info and helpful folks here.

DieselTech39 · 08-18-2014, 07:21 PM

Glad you're aboard Stephen. I understand the tall ceilings, I'm 6'5"...well 6'4 1/2" since I lost my hair....lol Looked at some older Monacos and the 74" interior seems a little too close to my bald spot for me. I've been in some Newmars and American Coaches and they seemed about right. Not sure what you budget is so I'd urge you to check some of them out. You get what you pay for it seems, and get an inspection by a RVIA certified RV tech and a qualified Diesel/chassis tech. It'll save you money in the long run. Best of luck in your search and decision. Enjoy your adventures and be safe.

**JohnRR** · 08-18-2014, 07:37 PM

Hopefully you will get more replies here in the Class A Forum.

Peralko · 08-18-2014, 08:58 PM

Stephen,
One difference between the 8.3l ISC and the 8.9L ISL is that the ISC typically has an exhaust brake where the ISL typically has a Jake (engine) brake. The Jake brake is much more powerful. One of the highest quality coaches are Country Coaches, and they went to an interior ceiling height of 80 inches in 2005. No full-wall slide though. While the company went bankrupt in 2010, they are trying to re-start production, and have a factory service center in Oregon.