Community Forums

Dougrus · 02-03-2012, 06:08 AM

Ok, here's where we are:
After 2 years of research, RV Shows, forum reading, finding the perfect(4 us) floor plan, 2 quotes from 2 different dealers, we are ready to pull the trigger. My best deal is within a couple hundred bucks of the Internet deals advertised online. My head is spinning wondering what I missed or forgot to consider, I'd like to hear from you what one thing do you regret not addressing, or just didn't think about until it was too late?

cannon man · 02-03-2012, 06:28 AM

new or used? A B or C?

GaryKD · 02-03-2012, 09:07 AM

Hi Dougrus,
For me, there is nothing. I know how to determine what meets my needs. However, a couple of things that many people do not realize until after they make a purchase has to do with weight:

1. CCC = Cargo Carrying Capacity. Can the coach carry all your stuff?

2. Hitch capacity and GCWR = Gross Combined Weight Rating. Can the coach and hitch carry all your stuff AND tow the vehicle you choose?

Tha_Rooster · 02-03-2012, 03:49 PM

A good test drive freeways and side streets. The unit checked out to make sure everything works and the most important thing your wallet.

rdownward · 02-03-2012, 04:21 PM

You didn't mention what RV you have set your sights on so we don't know for sure what you should be considering. However, if you are considering a diesel pusher, most definitely you should consider the size and horse power of the engine and make sure it will not disappoint you performance wise for the size of rig and what you intend to tow with it. Having owned two small block Cummings (ISB) powered coaches, I was always disappointed in the performance of both the 275 horse and the 300 horse engines - especially pulling grades. I now have the 8.3 liter big block Cummings (ISC) rated at 350 horses and I couldn't be happier. However those who have further upgraded to the Cummings ISL 400 horse engine tell me that until I experience the power and torque of that engine, I won't know what true pleasure is in operating a DP motor coach. So, if considering a DP coach, do consider what power plant it has and make sure it will do a good job for the size and weight of the coach, the kind of driving you will be doing (mountains, hills or mostly level highways) and what you will be towing with it to help make the decision as to which engine you should get in your RV. CAT engines have similar differences.

1ciderdog · 02-03-2012, 06:38 PM

I'm on my 4th motorhome - you say the floorplan is good for you. OK, then will storage, inside & basement, meet your needs? Next is power and driveability - will it travel the hills at the speed you want and will if safely tow what you may want to tow. There's more but I think these are most important.
Safe travels
Bob

rjf7g · 02-03-2012, 07:44 PM

As a first time RV owner, your dealer may be your best friend or your worst nightmare. Research the dealers. There's a lot riding on the PDI and service after the sale.

SarahW · 02-03-2012, 10:05 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by rjf7g

As a first time RV owner, your dealer may be your best friend or your worst nightmare. Research the dealers. There's a lot riding on the PDI and service after the sale.

^^ This. And if two dealers are close in price...chose the closest one. Check out their service department and talk to other customers if you can. Good luck.

ahicks · 02-07-2012, 07:42 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by GaryKD

Hi Dougrus,
For me, there is nothing. I know how to determine what meets my needs. However, a couple of things that many people do not realize until after they make a purchase has to do with weight:

1. CCC = Cargo Carrying Capacity. Can the coach carry all your stuff?

2. Hitch capacity and GCWR = Gross Combined Weight Rating. Can the coach and hitch carry all your stuff AND tow the vehicle you choose?

X2! Is the coach overloaded before I put anything into it? Get it weighed. You're going to need those numbers (front/rear minimum) anyway if you decide to go through with it. They're required to figure out what pressure to run in your tires.

And make sure that weigh station is not next door. Make sure it's as far away as you think you can get away with? That'll make an excellent test drive!

bill2011 · 02-10-2012, 05:05 PM

Dougrus,
I am not sure what you mean by 200 within Internet price but if you mean within the advertised internet price I think you can do much better.

Dougrus · 02-11-2012, 05:41 AM

Thanks everyone for the advice!
We finalized the deal at about 30% off the MSRP, had them also throw in a tow dolly, 2 bike racks, and a fantastic fan in the living room. I know deals are subjective and everybody has their own sales story, we are happy with the one we got...