Community Forums

Heli_fixer · 02-08-2025, 12:12 PM

Back in the market for another motorhome. We are presently looking for a mid 2010's diesel pusher in the 35 foot range. We looked at the about unit yesterday and noticed there were no controls on the steering wheel. I had a Newmar Ventana and a lot of controls for lights, cruise etc. were right there in the wheel. Can anyone that has this motorhome or one like it chime in to let me know how they like driving there unit with what appears to be a mix match of places for these controls.

Thanks all,

Trevor

Pol6 · 02-09-2025, 04:24 AM

Hello, my 2019 Red33AA does not have the ‘smartwheel’ either. Cruise control switches are on a stick behind the steering wheel, volume formthe radio on the radio and a keypad on the armrest for the transmission.
Although I would have preferred to have most of those controls on the steering wheel, using the old layout is fine. My only complaint would be the cruise control lever that was designed in the 90’s, pretty basic.
On the other hand, maybe less prone to fail.

PushedAround · 02-09-2025, 06:24 AM

I had a 2010 38QBA and it had the controls on the stalks. Not quite as convenient but as mentioned, just like it was in an older car. They always worked properly.

Kendorado · 02-09-2025, 01:29 PM

I love my 2016 RED. Few problems other the bathroom vanity is SMALL
Ken D.

Heli_fixer · 02-10-2025, 06:23 AM

Interesting answers. I am not too sure how this will weigh on my choice, but good to know now. Thanks all

Campfamily · 02-10-2025, 07:38 AM

Tiffin first used the updated Freightliner Digital Dash on the 2021 Allegro RED coaches. This moved all of the controls (gear shift, cruise control, etc) to the steering column / steering wheel. It also replaced the analog gauges with a digital dash.

Another thing to be aware of with an 16 RED....with the 340 hp engine and the Allison 2500 transmission, you have a limited tow capacity of only 5000 lbs. The later models with the 360 hp engine and the Allison 3000 transmission increased this to 10,000 lbs.

Keith

BEACH · 02-10-2025, 07:51 AM

Our 2012 34qfa red has the “old” style controls… a non issue
Everything is within easy reach, most of the controls are not constant use anyway…

Heli_fixer · 02-10-2025, 05:24 PM

Thanks Keith. I am noticing this now. Really surprised how little towing capacity there is with some of these motorhomes, especially if you load up the coach. Much lower than 5000 lbs.

PushedAround · 02-11-2025, 07:25 AM

Our RED was the last of the non-emissions motors. It too had a 5,000 lb limit, but with judicious selection of a toad you should not have any problems. Our Honda element weighed 3,500 lbs and our coach pulled it with ease.

HighDesert · 02-11-2025, 03:14 PM

We have the 2017 33AA with the 360 ho engine. Does great, 10K tow capacity with Allison 3000 transmission. Cruise control on the stalk works fine, no issues. Also, have seen quite a few posts where people have had issues with all the controls being in the steering wheel. I’m a firm believer of simpler is better.

Heli_fixer · 02-12-2025, 07:00 AM

I really like the 33AA and probably won't let this get my way of purchasing one. Thanks all

PushedAround · 02-12-2025, 07:06 AM

Quote:

Originally Posted by Heli_fixer

I really like the 33AA and probably won't let this get my way of purchasing one. Thanks all

Show us pictures when you get it!

Hayman · 02-12-2025, 07:11 AM

Quote:

Originally Posted by Heli_fixer

I really like the 33AA and probably won't let this get my way of purchasing one. Thanks all

HI HellFixer , Realizing you live in Canada I'm not sure where or how soon you intend on purchasing and whether new vs used but I thought I'd let you know of a 2019 RED 33AA in Ft. Myers, Fl. , 1 owner , 40k miles in very nice condition . NO ITS NOT MINE nor anyone I'm connected to just one we considered but passed on instead purchasing an Open Road 32SA instead . IF INTERESTED Google Allegro RED 33AA in Ft. Myers, Fl. it should come up .

Campfamily · 02-12-2025, 07:56 AM

Quote:

Originally Posted by Heli_fixer

I really like the 33AA and probably won't let this get my way of purchasing one. Thanks all

We are extremely happy with our 33AA. Our intent is to transition to more and more longer duration trips as I get closer to retirement. Ours has made 3 trips to North Dakota from western Arizona, and we're about to take off for a 5 week trip to Alabama for our son's wedding. Yeah, we wish the shower was a bit bigger, but overall, extremely happy.

I would recommend narrowing your search a little bit to only include coaches with the 360 hp engine. Not sure what year Tiffin transitioned to that, but having the additional tow capacity and payload is a significant benefit in my mind.