Community Forums

sgtsilverman · 07-16-2013, 02:46 PM

We're in the process of buying a 1993 Winnebago Vectra Diesel Pusher. We have discovered that this coach needs a radiator repair. I've gotten a local estimate (San Diego) of $1650. Ouch! We fully expect to have to put some money into this coach but I am reeling under sticker shock. This is 3x - 5x what a car would cost. Are all diesel repairs and maintenance this expensive?

My desire for a DP was for the greater fuel economy, drive train reliability and heavier duty components and cargo capacity versus gas coaches. Is my thinking flawed? We plan to use the coach weekly.

I understand that a large part of this repair cost is for R & R of the radiator, trans cooler and intercooler. Is there additional maintenance that should be performed at this time while the engine is accessible. How about the Cummins alignment pin issue?

Thanks in advance for your input.

bdickson · 07-16-2013, 02:50 PM

I'm not a DP expert, but we have plenty of them on the forum who should be happy to help you.

wildtoad · 07-16-2013, 03:30 PM

Your thinking is not flawed, but the in general diesels cost more to repair and maintain than gas engines. Do the other benefits outweigh the costs? Can't answer that.

TXiceman · 07-16-2013, 05:10 PM

Dp RV's are expensive to maintain and repair.

Ken

Mathgeek · 07-19-2013, 03:01 PM

I had the radiator rebuilt on my 1977 AM General Transit Bus conversion (Detroit Diesel) last year. It cost me about $1600. So the amount you stated is not unreasonable for a major radiator repair.

Mitchyb · 07-19-2013, 04:43 PM

If I can add my .02 I ran a 6.0 diesel for years and ill tell you every time it went into the shop rarely did I walk away without my wallet being thousands of dollars lighter, not to be said that you can't spend this in a gas pot ( as some if you know I am doin now ) but often you need less specialized tools so sometimes you can do it yourself or you can find more budget friendly mechanics! As well these big block motors of late produce massive power, plus who cares if it takes an extra 10 min to get to the top of a grade you still get there as well it's gonna take a whole lot of miles to make up the cost difference of the diesel power plant. Best of luck on what you buy!

Davdeb1 · 07-19-2013, 05:25 PM

Are you going to use it every week? You bought 20 year coach, a 20 year old anything is going to cost you lots in repairs.

The main reason to buy a DP, is for comfort, and power. Yes its heavy duty and probably a little sturdier, but a good gas coach will be dependable, and a lot less costly. If maintenance costs are going to be an issue for you, buy a gas coach.

spritz · 07-21-2013, 10:23 AM

Quote:

Originally Posted by Davdeb1

Are you going to use it every week? You bought 20 year coach, a 20 year old anything is going to cost you lots in repairs.

The main reason to buy a DP, is for comfort, and power. Yes its heavy duty and probably a little sturdier, but a good gas coach will be dependable, and a lot less costly. If maintenance costs are going to be an issue for you, buy a gas coach.

HMMM I bought a 31 year old MH last year and it has only cost me 2 fuel filters. I have elected to do a few other things but none was needed when I bought it.