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Old 10-10-2018, 07:00 PM   #57
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Quote:
Originally Posted by deandec View Post
Personally, I would buy a rig built between 1994 and 2005 by a recognized quality builder because it seems that those were years IMHO in which quality of construction was more important than incorporating the newest technology.

Of course, the target would have to appear to have been well used and well cared for because the owner relied upon the condition of the rig.

Documentation of service and repairs and a mechanical inspection would be a big plus.

Miles on the odometer are most important to those who may want to resell the rig in the near term. Miles on the odometer are not significant to the operation of the vehicle but are important to the next buyer.

JMHO
Not only was the coach probably better-built in those days, the engines avoided a lot of the emissions controls that increased engine complexity and reduced reliability. As a former Detroit Diesel and Cummins engine operations manager, I would go for either of those engine makes instead of a Cat or Navistar. Cat discontinued their on-highway engine and Navistar had some severe design issues related to their emissions controls.
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Old 10-11-2018, 05:14 AM   #58
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I purchased a CC for under the price range that I was willing to spend. My ranged was from 70k to 150k. I got 2000 CC, for lower than that with low miles! If it's meant to be, than it's going to happen, and you will get an older RV if you still choose to do so. The older ones that I see out there, have some Great bodies styles, and still very dependable! I just took it to the shop, and paid for it, but the most important thing, is nothing major was wrong, and I'm a very happy with purchasing an Older RV.

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Old 10-14-2018, 12:17 PM   #59
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ReCap

I'm in the market for an older DP and this post has been phenom!!!!!
What I'm hearing and please correct me if I missed the mark: Shorter DP means 32' - 35', may find a 30' but it'll porpoise like crazy and is as common as Unicorns. Vintage between '98 - '07 is the safest window since '08 - '11 was intro of emissions stuff (DEEF etc) and lots of learning curve for the manufacturer; '12 and on work but will have still have the added emission stuff. DP with engine brake is great but the test of time on that is really the tranny and Allison is a good transmission, MaxxForce 7 engines are a problem waiting to happen, many folks have them without issues but too many do - real bummer as the Tiffen Allegro Breeze 32BR with two opposing slides has the perfect floor plan and nothing else within my budget. Monaco, Country Coach, Bounders, Rambler, Foretravel, Winnie, Newell all solid names to consider. A 2002 DP with 10,000 miles is not as good (safe) a deal as the same vintage with 50k - 75k - sitting too long (That's the same thing with motorcycles, I see lots of Beemers listed "2005 only 5k miles needs new battery" - means it was at best ridden 400 miles a year and at worse sat for a number of years, was started occasionally; either way a bunch of dried out rubber and plastic parts, leaky seals etc). If I don't tinker and have a decent set of tools I'd better have unlimited clearance on my Visa for repairs. Should be able to find something that works for between $25k - $75 but the low end of that scale will most likely want more work. Interior cosmetics are like a house, paint or replace with more modern but a leaky roof or window seals indicate potential for major brain damage. Crappy handling on a test ride is not a deal breaker, just means more stuff to check out starting with tire pressure, weight distribution, worn shocks or leaky air bags - handling issues list is a whole forum topic.

So, what'd I miss?

Absolutely great thread!
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Old 10-14-2018, 05:34 PM   #60
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Quote:
Originally Posted by tonyd48 View Post
I'm in the market for an older DP and this post has been phenom!!!!!

What I'm hearing and please correct me if I missed the mark: Shorter DP means 32' - 35', may find a 30' but it'll porpoise like crazy and is as common as Unicorns. Vintage between '98 - '07 is the safest window since '08 - '11 was intro of emissions stuff (DEEF etc) and lots of learning curve for the manufacturer; '12 and on work but will have still have the added emission stuff. DP with engine brake is great but the test of time on that is really the tranny and Allison is a good transmission, MaxxForce 7 engines are a problem waiting to happen, many folks have them without issues but too many do - real bummer as the Tiffen Allegro Breeze 32BR with two opposing slides has the perfect floor plan and nothing else within my budget. Monaco, Country Coach, Bounders, Rambler, Foretravel, Winnie, Newell all solid names to consider. A 2002 DP with 10,000 miles is not as good (safe) a deal as the same vintage with 50k - 75k - sitting too long (That's the same thing with motorcycles, I see lots of Beemers listed "2005 only 5k miles needs new battery" - means it was at best ridden 400 miles a year and at worse sat for a number of years, was started occasionally; either way a bunch of dried out rubber and plastic parts, leaky seals etc). If I don't tinker and have a decent set of tools I'd better have unlimited clearance on my Visa for repairs. Should be able to find something that works for between $25k - $75 but the low end of that scale will most likely want more work. Interior cosmetics are like a house, paint or replace with more modern but a leaky roof or window seals indicate potential for major brain damage. Crappy handling on a test ride is not a deal breaker, just means more stuff to check out starting with tire pressure, weight distribution, worn shocks or leaky air bags - handling issues list is a whole forum topic.



So, what'd I miss?



Absolutely great thread!


Two years ago we were looking for a class A. I knew I wanted a dp and found an 88 beaver marquis. I paid $15,000 for it and haven’t had any major problems. Not having manuals left me to learn all the systems by myself ( still learning ) but all in all I’m very happy with our bus
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Old 10-14-2018, 08:15 PM   #61
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There are lots of older DPs with low miles, in the market today. Look to pay $40-120K dependent on amenities. MY father was an RV Dealer for 35 years and I have never bought new. Currently in a 2005 Monaco Diplomat 40PAQ, 32,000mi., less than $75K invested. Lots of folks that want out will negotiate and give you a chance to own more for less (where have I heard that before??)
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Old 10-15-2018, 07:14 AM   #62
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Originally Posted by Piros1 View Post
I have had a 2008 Winnebago Journey39Z, a nice coach but felt it was underpowered 6.7 Cummins as well as did not handle well in the wind or passing big rigs. This is a two axle coach, speed did not seem to effect the handling, it was bad at any speed but better after adding a Saf-T-Speed steering stabilizer. I traded for a 2005 Country Coach Affinity 770, 45’ coach with a 525 CAT engine and no emissions and a tag axle. A whole new world and driving experience. It’s been a great coach that drives and handles very well. Plenty of power to pass and climb the big hills. I have done a lot of little repairs as you will find in any used coach and replaced all tires. I have not put it up for sale but plan to do so as I just don’t have time to use it enough or a garage big enough to store it. If interested you can PM me for more info.
Now back to your question about age. I own a large fleet of trucks and have found that all of them between the years 2008 and 2010 have a regen emission system that will cause more harm than good. I don’t think a well cared for coach has an age limit other than aesthetics. That said I probably wouldn’t go older than 2000 or newer than 2007 unless you want to jump to the 2013 and newer. The RV industry seems to have been hit hard from about 2007 to 2013 with the economic decline and then you have the emission systems they used 2008-2010 and the learning the new system 2011-2012. All relative to quality control. Many good coach companies went down or were sold off during that period. My final recommendation would be to buy a coach with a tag axle. They drive and handle much better. Feel free to PM me if you have questions.
I owned a 2011 Winnebago 40' DP that was perfect. No problems and solid as a rock. Highly recommend.
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Old 10-15-2018, 09:02 AM   #63
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What did I miss. . .

Slideouts:

Many love them and will not have a coach without a slideout.

But they:

Only offer increased floor space, nothing else.
Increase interior space making it harder to cool and heat.
Add weight, complexity, things to expensively maintain.
May not go in when ready to leave campground.
Often leak rainwater and air.
Tops may gather leaves and dirt that can get carried into living space when slide is brought in.
Usually reduces inside cabinet / storage space.
Incorrectly set slide locks and switches can prevent engine start.
Extending in campground can get damaged hitting campground posts, etc.
May have wind noise or air drafts when driving.
Could come out a little when driving.
May go in or come out at an angle.
Do affect wall strength and structure from having a large hole cut in side.
Plumbing and propane lines have to be flexible when appliances are in slide, but not get in the way of moving in and out.



And to think some slideouts are almost the full side of the coach.
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Old 10-16-2018, 08:15 AM   #64
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Thumbs down Add Newmar to your list of Desireable used coaches.

Quote:
Originally Posted by tonyd48 View Post
I'm in the market for an older DP and this post has been phenom!!!!!
What I'm hearing and please correct me if I missed the mark: Shorter DP means 32' - 35', may find a 30' but it'll porpoise like crazy and is as common as Unicorns. Vintage between '98 - '07 is the safest window since '08 - '11 was intro of emissions stuff (DEEF etc) and lots of learning curve for the manufacturer; '12 and on work but will have still have the added emission stuff. DP with engine brake is great but the test of time on that is really the tranny and Allison is a good transmission, MaxxForce 7 engines are a problem waiting to happen, many folks have them without issues but too many do - real bummer as the Tiffen Allegro Breeze 32BR with two opposing slides has the perfect floor plan and nothing else within my budget. Monaco, Country Coach, Bounders, Rambler, Foretravel, Winnie, Newell all solid names to consider. A 2002 DP with 10,000 miles is not as good (safe) a deal as the same vintage with 50k - 75k - sitting too long (That's the same thing with motorcycles, I see lots of Beemers listed "2005 only 5k miles needs new battery" - means it was at best ridden 400 miles a year and at worse sat for a number of years, was started occasionally; either way a bunch of dried out rubber and plastic parts, leaky seals etc). If I don't tinker and have a decent set of tools I'd better have unlimited clearance on my Visa for repairs. Should be able to find something that works for between $25k - $75 but the low end of that scale will most likely want more work. Interior cosmetics are like a house, paint or replace with more modern but a leaky roof or window seals indicate potential for major brain damage. Crappy handling on a test ride is not a deal breaker, just means more stuff to check out starting with tire pressure, weight distribution, worn shocks or leaky air bags - handling issues list is a whole forum topic.

So, what'd I miss?

Absolutely great thread!
Newmar makes a great DP. I am on my third and have had very good luck. If you get one 2008+ the Newmar Comfort Drive system is amazing! Newmar is the only coach that has it. Highly recommended.
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Old 10-16-2018, 02:52 PM   #65
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I don't know where you live but I'm in Louisiana and have a 2000 Winnebago journey 36 foot with one slide 5.9 275 hp engine Allison transmission with 107000 miles no problem travel all over south east for sale. Only reason I am getting rid of it because i needed more room
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Old 10-16-2018, 03:16 PM   #66
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Very pleased with my 1994 Fleetwood Southwind Storm.


It's relatively simple....


454 TBI (no air pumps)


No auto park brake system...


No slide out to fail at the worst possible time...(time to leave campground)


And very sought after by even those not looking to purchase.
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Old 10-17-2018, 04:52 AM   #67
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Quote:
Originally Posted by janelewbill View Post
Newmar makes a great DP. I am on my third and have had very good luck. If you get one 2008+ the Newmar Comfort Drive system is amazing! Newmar is the only coach that has it. Highly recommended.
I have a 1994 Monaco Dynasty 32 ft diesel pusher for sale. High quality a little aged but in style. You can look the ad up in the bay. A little smaller from the outside but big inside with lots of storage behind real wood back when they used solid quality material. Drives very well, like a big rig. Just drove 3,000 mls no problems. 5.9 Cummins diesel, 250 hp, 6 speed Allison, diesel generator, 2 roof ac's, big fridge incl. ice box, coriander counter, convection, queen bed, sofa bed, shower, Sony CD stereo with 6 speakers, new tires, new starter, new alternator, new radiator, 4 new batteries, air suspension, exhaust brakes with new air dryer... have receipts for about $ 3,000. Comes with manuals and clean title.
It has 2 cracks on the side but I have them and the roof new caulked from RV-specialist - RV is dry, no stains inside. Its not brand new so it has some paint issues but nothing big. Can stay or you order a spot repair. Ready to go with pots/pans/silver/dishes/toaster just bring towels and bedding
Yes there are some extras: comes with new battery tender 022-0148-DL-WH 12-Volt 4-Bank Battery Management System, new tire covers, new 18-Volt LXT Lithium-Ion Cordless Driver Drill and Impact Driver Combo Kit (2-Tool) w/ (2) 2Ah Batteries+Charger+Bag, some tools and cleaning stuff ... carpet area has Resilia - Clear Vinyl Plastic Floor Runner.
The passenger front air fan is not working but there is a new RoadPro RP-1179 12V Heavy Duty Metal 2-Speed Fan but just not installed yet.
RV is available in Fresno CA and can be picked up at a RV storage facility.
If you are interested or have questions, write me an email.
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Old 10-17-2018, 06:45 AM   #68
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I have a 1994 Monaco Dynasty 32 ft diesel pusher for sale. High quality a little aged but in style. You can look the ad up in the bay. A little smaller from the outside but big inside with lots of storage behind real wood back when they used solid quality material. Drives very well, like a big rig. Just drove 3,000 mls no problems. 5.9 Cummins diesel, 250 hp, 6 speed Allison, diesel generator, 2 roof ac's, big fridge incl. ice box, coriander counter, convection, queen bed, sofa bed, shower, Sony CD stereo with 6 speakers, new tires, new starter, new alternator, new radiator, 4 new batteries, air suspension, exhaust brakes with new air dryer... have receipts for about $ 3,000. Comes with manuals and clean title.
It has 2 cracks on the side but I have them and the roof new caulked from RV-specialist - RV is dry, no stains inside. Its not brand new so it has some paint issues but nothing big. Can stay or you order a spot repair. Ready to go with pots/pans/silver/dishes/toaster just bring towels and bedding
Yes there are some extras: comes with new battery tender 022-0148-DL-WH 12-Volt 4-Bank Battery Management System, new tire covers, new 18-Volt LXT Lithium-Ion Cordless Driver Drill and Impact Driver Combo Kit (2-Tool) w/ (2) 2Ah Batteries+Charger+Bag, some tools and cleaning stuff ... carpet area has Resilia - Clear Vinyl Plastic Floor Runner.
The passenger front air fan is not working but there is a new RoadPro RP-1179 12V Heavy Duty Metal 2-Speed Fan but just not installed yet.
RV is available in Fresno CA and can be picked up at a RV storage facility.
If you are interested or have questions, write me an email.
Asking $?
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Old 10-17-2018, 06:24 PM   #69
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Too Old?

I agree with these posts, I've had five DPs in the past, and now that I keep my Coach 250 miles from home, using it for weekend get a ways and for travel, I prefer four slides for the extra room. I think 1995 to 2007 built coaches are built much better because these were years for advanced materials and construction techniques. Lots of manufacturers went bankrupt, merged, sold out, and otherwise built less quality to pay out of their distress after 2008. I like my 2005 "cheap diesel" with no payments and spend my money traveling. It was $200K back of sticker and still looks new! I have no plans to have anymore RVs, this one will outlast me.
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Old 10-18-2018, 03:29 AM   #70
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Asking $?

15k
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