Community Forums

cmalberto · 02-10-2016, 05:34 PM

So how big is too big for a Class A gasser? Seems the bigger they get the longer behind the rear wheels they become - which makes sense - but I am just worried the length becomes an issue with handling as well as other potential issues as they get bigger. So what is the magic number to move to a larger chassis such as a Pusher?

I like the some of the bunkhouse models but we are getting in the 35-38 foot and thought I would ask how big I should go.

Thanks for your opinions.

PCarillon · 02-10-2016, 06:22 PM

I think the biggest you will see is right around 38ft. Our is just under that and we have no issues... If they built it, its fine.Of the Thousands built over they years I havent heard of any issueOnly thing would be hitch strength if you go pulling a heavy trailer

swampdog2 · 02-10-2016, 06:33 PM

IMHO after 33 feet you need to think about moving up

**NLOVNIT** · 02-10-2016, 06:45 PM

IMO, there is no "magic number", although Paul has it correct that 38 ft was/is the limit. Fleetwood briefly tried it, but the engine performance wasn't there with when over 38ft.

Deciding whether to go to a DP or stay with a gasser depends on how you're going to use it & a great deal of personal preference.

Lori-

bigben · 02-10-2016, 07:53 PM

Too long has little to do with power plant and more about ratio and balance.

Take the length and divide it into the wheelbase for a wheelbase ratio. Thus a 38' motorhome with a 252" wheel base results in a .552 ration. Showing the math (38*12)/252=.552.

Add the wheel size to the mix and 22.5" vs 19.5" and you gain more stability.

Then add in how the motorhome is weight balanced and you have your answer of what is safe.

Give this a read Your RV's Wheelbase Ratio May Save Your Life.

vsheetz · 02-10-2016, 07:54 PM

37' PA here, measures out right at 38' tip to tip. Yes, a long overhang behind the rear wheel making for having to watch the tail swing. However, sometimes it's a good thing that you can take advantage of. Overall, not a biggie. If a gasser fits you need, don't be concerned of a bigger one. We love the roominess.

gordsett · 02-11-2016, 08:45 AM

We have a Winne gasser and it is just great. We full time and have been from Vancouver Island to Florida and all points in between with no concerns. It is a 2007 Adventurer 38T outside measures 39' 11" with car in tow 58'. Only issue I don't go flying up the mountains but have driven through the Rockies in B.C. And the Smokies in the Eastern states.

Fiesta48 · 02-11-2016, 09:22 AM

My experience with a gasser.
1. Can you afford a diesel?
2. How much driving will you be doing and how much in hills?
1. Wasted $75k on 2 gasser trade-ins. Should have bought 3rd RV (diesel) 1st.
2. Wanted to pull our car instead of motorcycle in hills, with a gasser every hill is a real challenge, gasser MPG is lousy in hills and headwinds. Diesel in hills, WHAT hills?
Bought new 41' to avoid other peoples poor maintenance.

bigben · 02-11-2016, 09:42 AM

I am surprised it took 8 posts to get to the DP vs gasser discussion. The question remains "How big is too big a Class A Gasser?". cmalberto you've gotten some great input relative to length for any type of coach - gasser or DP. Always make an informed decision based on you needs and finances. We love our 38' gasser - handles well - lives well (7 months a year on average) and we love our large part time home base with 4000 sq ft on a great golf course. So again it is about your needs and finances. All personal choices.

georgew48 · 02-11-2016, 10:28 AM

Love my 38 foot gasser. Drives great and plenty of power. Fit my budget and we live in seven months out of the year.

PJStough · 02-11-2016, 10:31 AM

We have a 38' 9" gasser. I didnt know how bad it was until I read it on here.

NC25T · 02-11-2016, 11:12 AM

I had a bounder 38P which measures 39+ ft long, workhorse chassis

Also drove a pace arrow 38P ford as well as I think a 35G bounder also ford

The bounder 38P drove the best and was affected by wind/road irregularities less then the ford chases, plus t had the Allison 6spd which ford has just now finally adopted. Biggest complaint was power.... Pretty much any incline I would slow down even simple overpasses in Florida however I was pulling a wrangler unlimited and I typically traveled 70-73 mph

Zero issues with rear overhang, wheelbase is longer thus not a issue.

Only negative to longer is some camping areas do not allow RV's over a certain length. 35ft or so is the cutoff for some state/national parks, we weren't able to fit into a few camping areas we wanted to stay in but there were always options nearby.

bigben · 02-11-2016, 11:32 AM

Quote:

Originally Posted by PJStough

We have a 38' 9" gasser. I didnt know how bad it was until I read it on here.

Yep - same here. But I don't think anyone told my Challenger about it either!!!

Gary RVRoamer · 02-11-2016, 11:33 AM

I don't think 38 ft is necessarily "bad" for a gasser - it is clearly possible to construct a decent gas-powered rig of that size. Maybe even larger. But I think it is also clear that somewhere around 36 ft it is time to be thinking about a more robust chassis. A diesel power plant becomes more desirable as the GVWR increases, and so does air suspension and a rear engine and other features that we commonly get with a "diesel pusher" chassis.

The availability of a better solution doesn't make the alternate choice "bad", but a wise man considers the options and weighs the costs, pro and con.