Future Full Timers

[rhpears]

We are retiring this year, selling the house next spring, and planning to start out full time. Have been RV shopping for a couple years, have decided on a 40’ diesel pusher, and would like others input on our thoughts.

These are the 4 Motorhomes we are considering, some comments on them as well as other general questions.

Any comments & suggestions would be appreciated

Fleetwood Discovery – least expensive, some nice floor plans, but quality not as high as the others

Winnebago Journey – next on cost, limited floor plans, supposed to be better sofa bed as they make their own furniture, more stability due to their rail system, which also provides more storage room underneath

Tiffin Phaeton – more expensive than the first 2, good quality, great customer service, poor TV locations

Newmar Ventana – most expensive, good quality, better wall construction method, good layouts with the 2 recliners, tag axel, more horse power

Some of our general questions are

All electric vs some propane
Tag axel on the Newmar being a plus or a minus
New vs used, and how many years used is optimum

Thanks again for your input

[TonyDi]

If you drive a Ventana with it's Comfort Drive, you will be very impressed. It a pleasure to drive even on long trips.

The tag axle adds two more tires to replacement costs and does reduce storage. On the other hand it makes for increased stability, especially if it's windy or a semi passes you. It will give you more carrying capacity, and additional wheels for braking, when you have to make a fast stop.

If you are not going to do much boondocking I would opt for the all electric. No propane issues nor tunnel restrictions.

Without knowing your budget new vs used is difficult to say. If you opt for a used (and that's a good idea), look for 2-3 yrs. By that time all the little issues will have been fixed and the biggest part of the depreciation will have occurred.


Good luck with your search. Let us know what you decide on.

Happy Trails!!!

[sbleiweiss]

If you do a lot of toll road driving that tag axle adds a lot of cost. I agree with the all electric. It seems that cost isn't your top priority. Therefore I say floorplan rules.