Spartan / Freightliner

[Mike Thomas]

We have been considering an older Newmar diesel pusher. We see that they were offered in Spartan chassis and Freighliner. I know I can get the Freightliner serviced at Freightliner dealerships about anywhere. But what is a Spartan? Any advantages of one over the other?

[chasfm11]

A huge advantage for me, since I do most of my own work is that you can get the Freightliner wiring diagrams and you cannot get the Spartan ones, or at least so I'm told. That would be a real tough pill for me to swallow. I had a speedometer problem that Freightliner themselves tried to fix several times and didn't. I finally fixed it myself but I'd never have gotten close without the wiring diagram that Freightliner provided. It was wrong in a couple of spots but it got me close enough that I figured things out.

[RV Wizard]

Mike, it depends on the year of the chassis you are considering. I like an independent front suspension, side radiator and other amenities that were not available on earlier Freightliners. I have not had any issues on my Spartan chassis to have to seek their assistance on repairs.

[AFChap]

Most would consider a Spartan to be a bit "higher end" than a Freightliner, though there certainly is nothing wrong with Freightliner. I suspect there are as many or more Spartan service locations around the country as there are Freightliner. I've had my Spartan chassis serviced at one Spartan location for a minor warranty recall, and a variety of other locations including Cummins Coach Care. Rides great, handles great, approaching 50k.

[Gary RVRoamer]

Freightliner makes low end and high end chassis and everything in between, so it's hard to compare generic "Freightliner" to the Spartans, which are all toward the higher end of the scale. I suspect that Newmar did not use any of the cheaper Freightliner configurations, though.

Location might be one factor. If you travel on the East Coast, the excellent Freightliner Factory Service in Gafney, SC is available to you. If you are more likely to be in Michigan, then Spartan is a good choice.

I believe that FL has many more service centers than Spartan, but many of them are oriented strongly towards truck service and may not be all that responsive to RV customers. Even the ones designated as "Oasis" RV service sites. Spartan service outlets tend to be associated with the RV industry in some way or another. You can Find Spartan Service Center here. For Freightliner, look at Freightliner Service. Cummins service centers will do both brands.

[bthomforde]

We've had 2 Freightliners and currently have a Spartan, prefer the Spartan for all the reasons listed above, ride, handling, etc.
If it was me I'd make decision on what coach to buy on floor plan, engine, budget, etc. chassis manufacture would be last on the list of what to buy. if you like the rest of the coach go for it.

Just IMHO