Community Forums

kid gilmore · 03-22-2023, 07:01 PM

Hi,
We am looking at 2011-14 King Aire and Essex RV
I am worried about all I hear and have read about the Cummins 600 and 650 engines.
I believe the 600 HP is most likely what these model / year coaches would have.
Lots of years working towards the King Aire and guess now that I am drilling down to a purchase date coming soon we are really worried that we might have to let go of the Newmar dream.
Can you that are experienced help us understand the engine issue a bit more?
We also have looked at a Tiffin Zephyr and Essex but I am not a Thor fan from past bad exp. even though many say Tiffin is still operated independently.
Is there a year King Aire that you recommend that didn't have the engine issues? Our budget is $300,000 / $350,000 +/-
Thanks very much!
Jeff and Sharon

tom chelbana · 03-22-2023, 07:25 PM

We have owned 2 LA and 1 Essex with our current coach LA with the Cummins X-15 605HP. Our Essex had the Cummins ISM 500 HP with 1550 Torque which the 2010 and even 2011 Essex would have that great engine. Even early 2012 Essex might have that same engine. Nothing but good news for the ISM engine which we drove 145K miles and if that is the engine you find in the Essex good news. All the King Aires will have the ISX -15 which have had problems with valve's mostly cylinder 6 and most with the 650HP model. Many of these ISX engines have had their valves and even had their head replaced which would be better for you to get. Don't pass up the 2010 to 2012 Essex with the 500ISM engine if you don't want to take a chance plus no DEF.
Newmar Man

kid gilmore · 03-23-2023, 06:30 AM

Thanks guys!
Is there a big difference between the LA and the Essex in ride and features?
I am looking at a 2015 Essex next week. I have not looked to see if that engine is 600 or 605
Best,
Jeff

tom chelbana · 03-23-2023, 02:16 PM

A 2015 Essex would have the older 600 ISX. One year newer (17) Essex would have the STAR chassis, 3 step and HWH full wall slide which are desirable to have. The ISX in the years off 08 thru 2013 were more often the ones with valve problems.
The X-15 has many improvements and would be in 2018 LA on up to King Aire.
Newmar Man