2002 Alpine Pros and Cons

[octanefam]

I have done some searching on the forum but wanted to find more information on a 2002 Alpine. So for all of you that have a 2002 Alpine what are you pros and cons after owning the unit for some time? I know it really comes down to how the Coach was maintained in previous ownership.

Thank you.

[Old Scout]

...we have an early 2003, born on date: Feb 2002, with 186k miles and counting....in my humble opinion 2000-2003 were some of the most "stable" model years that WRV built. If taken care of--it would be a great find....if it had a 400ISL it would be even greater but not a deal breaker....

[andy29847]

I have a 2001 38' Alpine Coach. It's been the perfect coach for me. Well put together with quality materials, but not so complicated that you need a PHD to work on it. The weak spot for Alpine coaches is the brakes. It is a hydraulic system that is also found on thousands of school buses and medium trucks. The brakes give good service when driven regullarly. When the vehicle sits for long periods of time, moisture in the brake system causes problems with the brake system components. The most likely issue is a sticking caliper. The most expensive possibility is having to replace the ABS modulator. I have experienced both.

[paul65k]

2001 36FDDS here. I feel that ALL Apline coaches were built to a much higher standard than most othercoaches, especially in this price range so really any Alpine (Expect Avalanche) will likely serve you well.

I am partial to the 2001-2003 units as these are really the first modern dash units as well as the first years for the latest (slide wise) designs that carried on through the end of production......although a couple more were added later.

From a mechanical standpoint, I think that the simplicity of the pre-Vansco designs makes these coaches the easiest to maintain long term without a manufacturer left for support.

As Old Scout has mentioned some late 2002 units did have the ISL 400 but these were primarily the 2003 models. The 350 ISC is a very good motor but the ISL 400 is just that much better.

All that being said if you can find a well maintained 2001-2003 the previous maintenance would be the thing I would be most concerned about.....that and any upgrades to bing the "Liveability" up to more modern standards (eg. LED TV, Residential Refer, Upgraded electrical/batteries) would be the most important for me

[jeepster1952]

2002 40FD 3slide with ISL 400Hp with 100,000 miles. The 2002 and prior had the heavier steering support so no need to upgrade that, plus no vansco. Very solidly built, but subject to the problems of all older motorhomes. Most parts are available at RV stores or heavy duty truck shops. Built and drive like a tank or dream which ever you prefer.
They do take a large area to turn around, because of long wheelbase and not as sharp turning radius on front axle. But ride and drive nicely. There have been some great remodels on the website. I have the option of residential fridge, and stackable washer and dryer and a king bed a real plus. You cannot walk in the bedroom with the slides closed. Good Luck in your search. Feel free to email or call me with any questions.

Mike Stokes Central Il
2002 40FD ISL

[wolfe10]

Originally Posted by jeepster1952

2002 The 2002 and prior had the heavier steering support so no need to upgrade that ......
Mike Stokes Central Il
2002 40FD ISL

Slight correction-- the 2003 also had the heavier steering box support.


2004 and later need the updated, heavier steering box support.

[mythplaced]

Originally Posted by Old Scout

...we have an early 2003, born on date: Feb 2002, ...in my humble opinion 2000-2003 were some of the most "stable" model years that WRV built. ...

+1 to Old Scout, our 2003 40mdts 400ISL was a great MH. we remodeled a couple of years ago, and only had 2 coach issues the entire time we had it:

• Rear slide HWH hose that passes over the side radiator
• The sink fell down (really )

One chassis issue related to the radiator, Had to replace it, but I believe that was because of maintenance before we purchased it, but there were some years with radiator issues as I remember.

The only reason we sold BRAD (Big Rolling Ark of Destinty)was that we wanted the safety and service convenience a Super C brings.

[RVPioneer]

2002 also has a 12K front axle and 19K rear axle for a GVWR of 31K. GVWR increased to 33K in 2004.

[Barbaraok]

Originally Posted by octanefam

I have done some searching on the forum but wanted to find more information on a 2002 Alpine. So for all of you that have a 2002 Alpine what are you pros and cons after owning the unit for some time? I know it really comes down to how the Coach was maintained in previous ownership.

Thank you.

Ours is still going, over 160K miles. Yes, she requires maintenance and replacement of things as they wear out. But the ride is great, she's going strong and we are happy to use her for as long as we can still get out and about to see some of the country.