Looking for older (1998-2009ish) quality DP.

[apr67]

The brands I associated with quality in this time frame are:
Monaco (beaver, safari, HR)
Tiffin
Newmar
Winnebago?


Any others that fall into this category at that point in time? Prevost is way outta my league.

Of these, is Tiffin and Winne the only ones still owned by the same company? I am thinking about this from a support standpoint.

[CountryB]

I would not go newer than 2006 - to avoid the mess of emission control devices. Unfortunately, IMO, the diesel engine manufacturers have not worked out all the bugs with emission control devices. And they are expensive to fix. So the less emissions devices the better.

You listed Newell (which is out of the class of Coaches you listed). Newell and Prevost are the top-of-line Coaches if your in that price range (but you'll pay double the price for one of those compared with the others in your list). Maybe you meant Newmar.

In the price range for Monaco, Beaver, Safari, Holiday Rambler. I prefer the 2001- 2005 Monaco Signature and Executive, and the Beaver Marquis and Patriot Thunder, or the HR Navigator.

Tiffin and Newmar are excellent Coaches. I dont have any experience with those so my preference is limited to the ones listed above.

However, regardless of the manufatcure, I belive it is better to spend a little more and go with one of the "top line" models or next level down are my choice (as the upper models have the better equipment - like AquaHot heating, Air leveling, Washer/Dryer, vacuum system, dishwasher, nicer finishes, higher end electronics, better chassis, etc.). It depends on what your looking for...

Do you have size in mind (40ft+, Tag axle, etc.)?

[apr67]

Originally Posted by CountryB

I would not go newer than 2006 - to avoid the mess of emission control devices.

The reason I say 2009ish is that some folks stockpiled pre emission engines and used them in later coaches, but yes, I want to stay away from emissions.

Originally Posted by CountryB

Maybe you meant Newmar.

Yep, fixed.


In the price range for Monaco, Beaver, Safari, Holiday Rambler. I prefer the 2001- 2005 Monaco Signature and Executive, and the Beaver Marquis and Patriot Thunder, or the HR Navigator.

Originally Posted by CountryB

Do you have size in mind (40ft+, Tag axle, etc.)?

I think under 40 and no tag if possible and still get 5k to tow a jeep unlimited.

I want a layout with an E/W bed that has nightstands that I could hack away for a king bed or close to it. The other must is a layout with either opposing couches or a chair/desk across from sofa as I want to put a TV console with a TV lift elevator. I don't want to sit sideways trying to look at a tv at the front of the coach.

(obviously these are things I would generally have to do to the coach myself, although others have had the same idea)

[CountryB]

Regarding length - if you plan to drive a lot of Interstate highways (long distances) a Tag axle Coach handles way better than a non-tag. Shorter Coaches have more tendency to wander, drift, and get pushed around by winds and passing semis.

Of course the downside to a Tag coach is that it is "long wheelbase" so once your off the highway you have to watch your turns. And some places you just can't fit into.

[apr67]

Currently have a 35 foot gas RV. I don't have a problem with its handling, and I can't imagine that even the worst DP from the folks listed would be worse.

Am I high?

[Outbound]

You might add Country Coach to your shopping list.

[apr67]

Originally Posted by Outbound

You might add Country Coach to your shopping list.

I have them in my search, for some reason I thought they were part of Newmar. Added.

[FormerBoater]

Whatever you are considering from a manufacturer perspective, I would look at the model that was the flagship in the model year when it was produced.


I would add American Coach to the list, but as you can see I am not objective!

[Steve and Linda's APEX]

Look into Alpine Coach. They have some unique features. All have great chassis and excellent driving manners. We love ours!

[MSHappyCampers]

Monaco made some really good quality coaches in the early 2000's. We love our 2002 Windsor!

[jacwjames]

Originally Posted by FormerBoater

Whatever you are considering from a manufacturer perspective, I would look at the model that was the flagship in the model year when it was produced.

I would agree with this, you might pay a little more but the features and quality would be worth it.

I've got a single axle 38PKD Monaco Windsor ( actually 39' 8" long). It drives and handles great. One thing that I have to live with is a lower CCC weight, for some reason with the 2 slide model they used axles with a lower weight rating. If I had a 40' length they CCC goes up substantially because they increased the rear axle rating. Not a big issue for the weekend warrior but if you full time it might be. Just one other thing to look at.

[oldmattb]

We have a 1998 Monaco, and we like it and have no regrets. Simple, dependable.

We have had repairs common to old coaches. We have replaced the shocks, replaced the air bags, new roof, suspension bushings, freshened the exterior paint, removed old TVs, replaced carpet, replaced engine cooling hoses, etc.

I have shopped carefully for supplies and have done all of the work myself. I suspect I have avoided about $10K in labor.

I am not saying that the older coaches are not smart purchases. But do consider the repairs and upgrades that are common in older coaches.

Matt B

[Rusty Kramer]

APR67,
No idea about the Winny but all the other coaches mentioned are very good.
You might be able to get into a Foretravel.

Most all of these units mentioned will have 10K towing and side radiators as long as you are on the upper end of the brand.

[Cooperhawk]

Originally Posted by apr67

I have them in my search, for some reason I thought they were part of Newmar. Added.

Country Coach is owned by Winnebago and are included in all Winnebago rallys.