Community Forums

lancelotlink · 09-17-2009, 11:39 AM

just purchased 2005 8356CRE and need some advice please. is it better to take the coach to a freightliner facility or a rv dealer for routine maintenance like oil and filter changes. thanks in advance

Bill Reetz · 09-17-2009, 04:36 PM

I took my 2003 DP to Gaffney the end of August - fantastic service and facility. I received a quote from the local Freightliner facility (supposedly an OASIS - motorhome home freindly facility) of $1000 to $1100 for the M2 schedulted service with oil and filter change. Gaffney quoted under $500 for the same. Even with a 1200 mile round trip drive and 2 nights on the road camping I figure I still saved over $200! They have camping/parking for approx 25 rigs with electric (sewer and water available just outside the camping area.

RRTraveler · 09-17-2009, 05:44 PM

I take my coach to Baltimore Freightliner for service, oil changes, etc. This is because they have done a good job in the past with any work I have needed. However, if I was less than satisfied I wouldn't hesitate to take the coach to another shop that I have used in the past that works on MH's and large trucks. My experience with rv dealers is that they don't have the experienced mechanics to work on engine's and transmissions. Also, if you have an extended warranty of some type, I think your're better off with the manufacturer's approved service facility.

RV Wizard · 09-18-2009, 03:36 AM

lancelotlink, welcome to iRV2.com and to the Gulf Stream owners forum. We are glad to have you join us here and we look forward to reading of your adventures and experiences. As you can probably tell there can be good service centers of both Freightliner and RV dealers and there can be bad as well. Sometimes you can save some money either way depending on what needs to be done and where in the country you are at. You are doing well to come here for recommendations and referals.

BubbaJePH · 09-18-2009, 07:32 AM

I guess I'm different. I did the first oil change myself. I also greased all the fittings underneath. I started out as a kid helping the fire department mechanic. I do most of the maintenance on all my vehicles. If I feel it is above my ability, then I will take it to a dealer or certified mechanic. I've been royally reamed by the 'Professional' repair shop "Tidewater Express" in Hampton Virginia.

RV Wizard · 09-19-2009, 03:14 AM

Quote:

Originally Posted by BubbaJePH

I guess I'm different. I did the first oil change myself. I also greased all the fittings underneath. I started out as a kid helping the fire department mechanic. I do most of the maintenance on all my vehicles. If I feel it is above my ability, then I will take it to a dealer or certified mechanic. I've been royally reamed by the 'Professional' repair shop "Tidewater Express" in Hampton Virginia.

Oh yes, if you are one that is mechanically and physically able to do routine maintanance yourself, by all means do it! I recently spent 7 hours one day to completely go through mine; chassis, drive train, generator and a headlight. Probably saved $500 or more!