Community Forums

rrtribble · 07-06-2017, 11:55 AM

I'm really looking at buying an older Monaco for several reasons, one is to get away from the newer Urea requirements - I hate the regen. My current diesel bogged down for almost 500 miles with mpg dropping from 17 to 9. I had it checked when I returned but the diagnostics said it was okay. I've posted a couple of other threads on specifics but how old is too old?

Right now I'm considering a 2002. Is this too old if I can get it brought back up to like new condition.

I was looking at taking it to a Monaco Service Center to have the work done. Is this a good idea or do you have a recommendation for me. Live in Springfield, IL.

Thanks. I look forward to your input.

Gorlininc · 07-06-2017, 12:10 PM

I have a 2001 diplomat 38A with a cummins 330 ISC. I have 155,000 miles on it. I bought it 5 years ago with 90K miles. I use it about 6 months a year average.
It's runs and works great. All systems work great. It doesn't require very much maintenance.

barmcd · 07-06-2017, 12:21 PM

2002 is not too old as long as it has what you want. I have a 2000 and it's a pretty analog unit. I don't have aquahot or air leveling so every system is pretty independent of the other. All chassis parts are readily available and with the investment I have in it I can replace instead of repair a lot of the old systems like the refrigerator, furnace, hot water heater etc..

cruzbill · 07-06-2017, 12:28 PM

Extend the slideouts and check for water damage on the floor (outside) of the slideout. Water leaks by the trim piece where the wall meets the floor. Check with Stone Vos, they are the pros. RV Awnings & Slide Toppers From Stone Vos

rrtribble · 07-06-2017, 01:25 PM

This one has the Aqua Hot system, airbags and automatic leveling. The person I spoke with said he recommended the Aqua Hot burner and sprayer be changed as they clog up. He added 3 large ceramic heaters to supplement the Aqua Hot when he stored it her in Springfield, IL over the winter.

I was told to check for water damage around the door and windows as the Executive is supposedly known for these problems. So far I haven't seen any.

cruzbill · 07-06-2017, 01:29 PM

Aqua hot annual service, clean burner chamber, replace nozzle, replace fuel filter. I haven't done it on mine, yet.....Stored inside or outside?

2008 would use a 2007 engine, with DPF (diesel particulate filter). Check on line to see if these are problematic. Sounds like a good coach!

rrtribble · 07-06-2017, 01:33 PM

This one has a 500 and is well maintained. Just serviced by the Cummins Service Center in Normal, IL.

Do you have the DPF or plain exhaust?
My brother recommended changing the exhaust system to a straight exhuast to provide more air to the engine.

Rburian · 07-06-2017, 01:35 PM

I owned a 2000 Dip bought it new in Sept 99 sold it in 2014 with 132k miles, never had any engine,trans or chassis issues, only issue was windshield popping, solved the issue by adding support L brackets to the lower front cap to the frame. Now own 2005 HR scepter , have not encountered any major problems.

vito.a · 07-06-2017, 02:00 PM

A 2002 Monaco Executive is a rock solid coach built on a roadmaster chassis with a tag axle, 10 air bags and 10 shocks. The Cummins ISM 500 is a great engine. 2002 should be pre-EGR (Exhaust Gas Recirculation). Regardless of what the owner says, be prepared to spend $10-20K on bringing it up to speed and remodeling. I would recommend you have a professional inspection done by someone that is familiar with these large coaches (most inspectors are familiar with travel trailers and small class A gas motorhomes).

Make sure the chassis/engine, floor plan, number of slideouts, and other options meet your requirements as you are in for a journey remodeling it. You can save at least 50% on remodeling if you do the work yourself.

HR2004 · 07-06-2017, 02:12 PM

We have an 04 Endevour. Same as 04 Diplomat. Rock solid coach. Had it 3 years and put 30k miles on it. Nope. Not for sale 😉

Dupdyke · 07-06-2017, 02:13 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by rrtribble

This one has a 500 and is well maintained. Just serviced by the Cummins Service Center in Normal, IL.

Do you have the DPF or plain exhaust?
My brother recommended changing the exhaust system to a straight exhuast to provide more air to the engine.

I have 2003 isl 400 42 regal dynasty and other than pulling all the halogen and puting in leds and painting the front to fix the diamond shield it has done 109,00 just fine.

ray999 · 07-06-2017, 05:07 PM

ray999 · 07-06-2017, 05:08 PM

2002 Windsor 40. First dp and was fortunate to find one with 7k last year. Invest in belts and tires, some paint to clean up scratches and bra for front. Good luck !

veraken · 07-07-2017, 04:15 AM

We bought a 1998 Holiday Rambler and are very happy with it.

I would suggest that you get an independent certified RV mechanic to inspect all the RV systems, including the roof. In addition I would have the engine, transmission, frame, etc. inspected by a diesel service shop. Having a coolant and oil analysis by a lab like JG Lubricants (Buy an Engine Oil Analysis Kit Today | Engine Oil Analysis Service ) would reveal any hidden problems.

Make sure everything is in writing!! Any purchase should be contingent upon successfully passing these inspections/tests.

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