Community Forums

PDXSteelhead · 10-01-2015, 04:18 PM

Thanks to all in advance - great site! I have been a Nash Trailer owner for years and the wife and I are thinking of moving to an RV more full time. That being said, we have been looking at some used ones and have come across a 2004 Newmar DutchStar 4015 that has 47K miles with cummins 370 ISL engine on Spartan chassis that we like. I am looking for any advice on that platform with regards to reliability/power/maintenance - pretty handy with Diesel pickup just not sure what to look for/inspect/expect on this motor. Any advice is much appreciated!!
Look forward to digging into the great info on this board!
Best,
Tony

Gordon Dewald · 10-01-2015, 04:27 PM

IMO Newmar is a good brand.

I do not have any knowledge about the Spartan chassis but many sing it's praises.

I would have a qualified RV tech and a diesel mechanic do a detailed inspection. No guarantees they will find everything but it will go a long ways.

MSHappyCampers · 10-01-2015, 04:41 PM

Hi Tony! Welcome to IRV2! We're sure glad you joined us!

Hope you find the perfect rig for your needs!

Good luck, happy trails, and God bless!

cowrv39 · 10-01-2015, 05:05 PM

The spartan chassis is a great chassis. The DSDP is an awesome rig. Good luck in your decision should you decide to buy.

-Brian

JohnT · 10-01-2015, 05:40 PM

Welcome to the Newmar forum. We came from a 5th wheeler and the first bit of advice we received was to get the vin number then call Newmar and Spartan. Both manufacturers shared the coach's history.

We felt very comfortable with the info and it really solidified the decision to purchase. A great dealer, Midway RV, gave us a great price, a 30 day warranty and stood behind it.

Good Luck.

dutchstr3884 · 10-01-2015, 06:18 PM

the attached pdf file is Newmars check list. It should be pretty comprehensive. The Cummins ISL engine is a great one with super torque and a good transmission and exhaust brake.

Have fun.

hal1phx · 10-01-2015, 07:48 PM

Get service records .... tells a lot ....

Bruce C · 10-02-2015, 04:58 AM

Good luck with your choice.

JFNM · 10-02-2015, 05:09 AM

Hi Tony,

I have a 2005 with ~45k miles. It is a great rig, IMHO. I've not participated in any drag races but I've never felt like it lacked power (and that is with lots of miles towing my Jeep around the mountains in the west).

The only thing I have heard are some reports of the ball joint joint boots deteriorating and needing replaced (sorta expensive).

denlock · 10-02-2015, 11:30 AM

I would suggest to browse the Newmar owners and Spartan Chassis group forums.

rvftnewbie · 10-03-2015, 12:10 PM

I just purchased a used 2002 Dutch Star in South Carolina. I called the Cummins folks in a nearby town and arranged an inspection by them. It costs 199.95 and they check everything like the Cummins engine and all of the drive train. It gave me peace of mind knowing it was a solid coach before buying it. I rode with the owner to have it checked out before paying him for the unit. Absolutely no problems at all and feel it was money well spent. I found out the brakes were good but the rubber boots on my CV joints were torn and deteriorated so I will replace them soon. I drove 3,200 miles since buying it with zero issues as it runs like it should. I'm back in Colorado now loading it up with my things as I've become a FT RV guy for the last 23 days and absolutely love my Dutch Star DP and all of it's 40 feet w/3 slides. I plan to be FT now as I sold my house and now will enjoy the freedom. Good luck!