Need help before buying...

[dylan]

I'm trying to narrow down my list of MH's to purchase. My "short list" is comprised of:
-2001 35' Itasca Suncruiser 20k mi
-2000 Winnebago WFG35U 27k mi
-2001 Damon Intruder 20k mi

Any thoughts, concerns, advice, would be appreciated. I'm brand new to this...

Thanks,

Jim and Glenda

[Ed S]

Think I would stick with a Winnebago product based on what I have read.

[TXiceman]

Winnebago over the Damon product.

Ken

[Indian Creek]

Quote:

Originally Posted by Ed S Think I would stick with a Winnebago product based on what I have read.

I agree, you have a tremendous support group with the Winnie or Itasca products, even in an older model.

[KIX]

You'll get support on Winnebago products. Things like electrical and plumbing drawings are available online.

[Seajay]

Buying the ''right'' motor home is very difficult.

Remember this. THERE IS NO SUCH THING AS THE ''PERFECT MOTOR HOME''

It seems you have narrowed it down to three coaches and this is good. First ... Make a list of what you want in a coach. Slides, Queen Bed, Jacks, Stowage, Engine type, Washer/Dryer, Floor plan Layout, Length, Price range, etc etc etc..
Try to pick the best ''compromise'' that fits your ''list'' the best. Believe me, You will never find the perfect coach. I have been camping for fifteen years and have owned three coaches and none of them have ever been perfect. All were a compromise in wants, needs, price ranges and availability.
Camping is an adventure and the first big adventure is trying to figure out what you think you want and then finding something close to what you think you want. (confusing aint it?)

This valuable advise will cost you ten cent and you must pay me the next time you see me........... of course, if it dont help,,,,,,I NEVER KNEW YOU........LOL...
God bless our troops and bring them home soon and safe.....
Thank a vet for your freedoms. Some died to give them to you ....

[hardy1000]

Based on the choices you have listed above, if you like all equally, the Winnabago would be my choice. Alot of happy owners and good reputation.

[RonK]

You didn't say what the model of the 2001 is but if it is the 35U it is a very good choice. We had the 01 35U and found it to be a very comfortable coach. Ours had the Ford chassis under it and we had no problems other than the 1st year shakeout issues. Quality was very good for the price point.

[John H...]

It is a tough discision either way, but my first concerns would be which layout or floorplan is the best, after price VS. condition. Maybe Winnebago is a better name, but the Damon could be a better bargain. Again, price and condition. You have to be the judge. Be sure to check all systems and be sure everything works. Check date stamp on tires. The first thing you may have to do is replace tires on one or the other.

[dylan]

Some very good points. I sure do appreciate them!
It's been so long since I've had to read the date on a tire, that I don't remember how to do it!
Any pointers?

Thanks,

Jim

[John H...]

There is a date stamp on the sidewall of the tire that lets you know the date the tire was made. I believe the last two digits is the year and is preceeded by the month. Someone can correct me if I'm wrong. Tires older than 6 years, should be replaced for safety sake.

[John H...]

Jim, By the way, I have not had any problems with my entry level Damon.

[codgerbill]

I think either the Itasca or the Winnie would be the better choice. The Itasca is supposedly has some things that the Winnie offered as optional. The 35U has a great floor plan but both the winnie and itasca sacrifice basement storage because of the basement air/heat pump.The choice on the mileage between the two is a wash but things to look for would be the tires (older than 6 years ...replace), battery condition, paint and decal condition, interior condition, service history (how often the engine and generator have been serviced, condition of the seals around the slides, etc. The best thing you can do is have a professional inspect it before you sign on the line.

[RV'nOldTimer]

Lots of good advice that I concur with. One thing I'd like to add is to check closely for water stains or any other signs of leaks. Water damage can be expensive (or impossible) to repair. If any such signs are there, walk away (no, run) regardless of brand or price.

As others have said, inspect everything and check out all systems.

Good traveling.

JT