Thinking of purchasing 2005 Vectra

[mhbell]

I am looking at a 2005 Winnebago Vectra 36D with 2 slides. I am wondering what I should be aware of. Any problems with this model? What should I look out for? It is clean and appears to be well taken care of. Don't know about service records or manuals as I didn't see any. The unit came from Idaho. it only has 69000 miles on it. does not require DEF. it has the 7.2 catapillar engine. and the Allison 6 spd 3000 trans. Any help appreciated.
Mel

[jacwjames]

If you don't have experience with Diesel Pushers or RV's in general I'd suggest having an inspection done. If you have any friends with DP's that could be an option.



Vectra is a nice coach, we looked at several before we bought our coach in 2008. I don't have first hand knowledge of any problems specific to this make/model but in general look for any type of water leaks, get on the roof and see if it's been maintained, is the caulking good around all the penetrations (fans, skylights, antenna etc).



I am also an advocate of oil sampling. It takes about 4-7 days to get the results and it will highlight any problems. I've done my engine, transmission, and even the coolant.



Cat is a good engine but like any others it has to be maintained.

[l1v3fr33ord1]

mhbell-

Most coaches have "class problems," that is, problems for a range of model years and models. In the case of the 2000-2008 Winnebago coaches, the frequently-reported class problems are:

1) Leaky windshield (inspection followed by repair if needed)
2) Leaky roof joint (reportedly can be mitigated by regular maintenance)
3) Failure of clearcoat, followed by paint failure, on full-body-painted coaches

Here is a link to a Google search of iRV2 posts with the terms "Winnebago," "windshield" and "leak" in them.

Others have covered, or will cover, the mechanical and systems items particular to these coaches. I note that the "residential," "basement" air-conditioner used in these units have a bunch of happy owners- as long as the A/C is inspected and maintained well.

Don't let these "class" problems keep your friend from buying a 2005 Vectra. They were fairly well-made, according to reports from owners. The 2005 Vectra brochure is here.

[emiddleb]

The Vectra/Horizons of that era were the top offerings from Winnebago. Mark listed the three issues of the line.

The windshield frame rust is hit/miss and you probably won't know you have it when you need to replace the glass due to a chip/crack. It can be fixed, just an extra cost (I know.)

Winne has a unique way of sealing the fiberglass roof to at the edges which must be inspected and maintained. Owner do-able, just a case of checking the sealant at the edge and cleaning/patching if needed. There are docs available online to show you what's needed.

Can't speak for the clearcoat issue... seems to be units which sat out baking in the Southern sun, but again it's hit/miss.

The engine/chassis/tranny are very solid as long as regular maint is performed. Make sure you get some info from the prior owner and perhaps a nose-to-tail inspection by a good shop (Freightliner etc).

Other than that, just keep in mind you are looking at a coach that's getting close to drinking age. Check the tire ages as a new set of 6 of those 22.5" will really ding the wallet. Run the levelers and slides and make sure the HWH system is working.

The basement Coleman Mach system is no longer used by Winne and it's getting harder to find parts/service. Winnebago-specific parts (interior trim, etc) are no longer being made and may not be in stock.

Bottom line - a well-made unit with a lot of features, with the challenge you'd expect with a 20-year old anything. Most of the systems are 3rd party items (water pump, propane furnace, fridge etc) which can either be serviced or replaced with something newer. An unsung benefit - Winnebago has posted all the wiring/plumbing/parts for this coach online, as well as a spot where you can actually download all the parts used to build your specific unit. Very valuable if working on an issue.

I've had mine for about 17 years now and wouldn't replace it.

Good luck on your decision!

[David 70]

emidddleb; where do I find the build sheet for my coach. I know how to get the archive info, but I have not seen a spot to get the "build sheet"

[emiddleb]

Originally Posted by David 70

emidddleb; where do I find the build sheet for my coach. I know how to get the archive info, but I have not seen a spot to get the "build sheet"

https://dealer.winnebagoind.com/unitsearch/parts.htm

You will need your coach serial # (not the VIN, the Winne #)

You get a web page, which you can use your browser to "save" for your files.

[azpete]

check the roof for delamination. this is a common problem with winnebagos with the living edge design. no amount if owner maintenance is going to prevent this.
if it has come loose, especially. in the rear, its a costly repair.
i know from personal experience.
clear coat peeling is also a problem. clear coat cant normally be just sprayed over.