Community Forums

Barbara N · 03-25-2010, 04:05 PM

Hi: We are contemplating purchasing our first MH and are looking at a 2005 Coachmen. Are there any current or former Coachmen owners on line that can give us their feedback on their experience (positive or negative) with the vehicle?
Thanks, Barbara

MikenAmber · 03-25-2010, 04:45 PM

Barbara, First Welcome to irv2, we are glad you joined in. In response to your question, please scroll down in the forums section to the Forest River Section, there in the sub section you will find Coachman and may get some information there. Again Welcome glad to have you.

Nap&Joe · 03-25-2010, 07:04 PM

Barbara, My wife's and I first motorhome was a 2002 Coachmen Catalina (29 Ft), I believe the Freelander replaced this model. Our Catalina was great, we had absolutely NO "punch list" problems after delivery. The only reason we traded up to a Class A was that with our 2 Bull Terrier dogs (The "Target Dog"), the Class C was a bit small without a slide-out. From what I have seen, I think the Freelander does has a single slide-out. Finally, on some related issues (our dealer was not great, but the service from Coachmen was fantastic!!), No experience with Forest River, but Good Luck!!

Barbara N · 03-25-2010, 11:17 PM

Thanks for the feedback! We have 2 dogs also, but I think that we will be able to squeeze in.

Nap&Joe · 03-26-2010, 08:44 AM

Barbara, One of the most important concepts I learned is the ratio of wheelbase to overall length of your coach. You want to get as close to 55% (or more as possible). For example, our Catalina Class C was 29 feet in length (348 inches) with a wheel base of 190 inches (190 divided by 348 x 100 = 54.59%). If you get a coach with a long back overhang (closer to 50% than the ideal 55% or greater), you will have a coach that gives a much poorer quality of ride call the "tail wags the dog".

Not sure of the wheel base ratio on the Freelander, but with a slide-out, you should be fine with your 2 dogs. Again good Luck!! Remember the ideal is 55%!!

Jack R · 04-03-2010, 07:00 PM

Barbara

I just traded in my 2007 freelander on my current MH. My wife and I enjoyed it and so did the dogs. They like to travel. The antisway bars used by coachman are terrible. They are to small. less than an inch in diameter. I put new sway bars bars on and new shocks (koni) prior to trading in. It became a pleasure to drive after that. It ran well, no problems in the mountains. If you have further questions please email me at jackgibbs@q.com

Jack