Community Forums

pinsel · 07-26-2011, 05:40 PM

What kind of info can gas pusher owners offer? We are looking at buying a 2007 Forest River Georgetown 39XL gas pusher. Are there any problems with this unit being gas instead of diesel? We are newbies and would welcome any help!

Thank You

62_inrightlane · 07-26-2011, 07:24 PM

It all depends on what you want to use your MH for.

Most gas motor homes have a towing capacity of 5,000#'s Diesels have about 10,000#'s in towing capacities. Makes a difference if you have a big SUV your looking to tow.
Diesels typically have higher end cabinetry than a typical gas motor home. All hardwood cabinets vs. hardwood doors on gas. Gas MH's manufactures look for ways to reduce weight.
Diesels typically have tile floors and gas typically has linoleum.
Diesels get better MPG than gas, however diesel fuel is more expensive.
Typically a diesel is more expensive to purchase and maintain than gas.
Diesel engines have a much longer service lifetime than gas, however gas will typically outlast the motor home if given regular maintenance
With the added ability to handle weight Diesels typically have larger refrigerators, and include washers, dryers, etc.

Now I'm sure I've only scratched the surface on the differences. I'm sure others will chime in with a lot more information.

TXiceman · 07-26-2011, 07:28 PM

The gas engine will have lower maintenance cost, but a shorter life. It will not get as good of fuel economy and will suffer more in hills and mountains.

Ken

Jackm · 07-27-2011, 03:40 AM

As for the rear engine issue, a gas pusher will most likely exhibit the typical advantages and shortcomings of any gas engine motorhome. One other issue that you might want to consider is the fact that gas pushers were technologically an interim design that was primarily used to fill a gap until an appropriate diesel could be developed. As a practical matter, this could conceivably impact your ability to get parts and service over the long-run. If you plan to keep this unit for some time, I would ask around to see if this design is apt to be supported over the long run. If not, I would look into a traditional gas puller or a DP. Best of luck.

Jack

edgray · 07-27-2011, 08:00 AM

pinsel: the coach you are looking at has the Workhorse 26,000 pound GVWR chassis known as the UFO. Suggest you visit the Workhouse chassis forum here on iRV2 to see many threads pertaining to this chassis. Believe it or not, but there are several hundred coaches out there using it, and quite a few of our members have them and can answer your questions.

FWIW, I wish I had one, but never found the house we wanted built on a UFO :(
Ed