Community Forums

kiethco · 12-10-2013, 02:17 AM

I started with a 26' Champion 12 years ago. Then had a Class C for about a minute, too small, then a 34' 89 Pace Arrow we loved. Now, I'm looking at a very clean 1996 Eagle 40 footer. I loved the tour of the Eagle, we know what we want in our destination coach, the eagle delivers in spades. Only problem is the sucker is huge. I'm used to driving the pace arrow and fire trucks but what worries me is access to campgrounds.
We mostly boondock in the So Cal deserts but also like the central coast, adult rv parks and are looking forward to new destinations.
Is there a bias towards bigger rigs? Any disadvantages to the extra 5 feet in length over the Pace arrow? I'd like to hear your experiences, insights or thoughts.
Thanks

wildmandmc · 12-10-2013, 02:21 AM

40 seems to be not to much of problem. when u get to 45ft thats when some rv parks have restrictions. was at rv park this past weekend, an they had a group from the eagle association. whole bunch of them , some sweet ass rigs for sure.

Monaco38 · 12-10-2013, 03:48 AM

First, welcome to iRV2!

Don't think you will find 40' to be an issue or create limitations. At 38' we have not experienced any real issues at any of the state parks or camp grounds we have stayed at. ...and what's two more feet? Would not hesitate at 40' if everything else is right.

Mac99 · 12-10-2013, 07:23 AM

Go for it, bigger is better. 40' is easy to handle, you will be scared the
first few times you go out, then you will be nervous the next few, and
then you will get comfortable. Sure is a pretty coach.
good luck

MSHappyCampers · 12-10-2013, 08:32 AM

We bought our 40' Windsor last year after pulling 5ers for 10 years. Yes, it was scary at first, but you quickly adjust and now we love it!

Algoma · 12-10-2013, 08:40 AM

It will be a problem in some state parks, even our 36' is a problem in some, but 40' is about the most common size nowadays and there should be no problems in commercial campgrounds. You may have some problems getting round tight corners compared to the Pace Arrow and you will probably clip the curb a few times until you get used to it, but it just takes practice.

topdownman · 12-10-2013, 08:53 AM

I went from a 36 foot HR to a 40 foot Sportscoach DP. I didnt' even notice the difference. No problems getting into parks either.

Medico · 12-10-2013, 03:52 PM

Heck, my 45 foot coach is our first. No problem driving at all. In fact easier because it's more stable with a smoother ride. Go for it.

We are somewhat selective on where we park. Many state parks, even if the site is big enough, the entrance and roads might be difficult to navigate. Just do a little research ahead of time.

Cat320 · 12-10-2013, 04:25 PM

Just keep it in the center of the road...get a site picture that will do that. My coach came with triple lens mirrors, the bottom lenses are adjusted so I can see the two front tires. One glance and I can see where I am in relation to the dashed line on the left and the curb/shoulder on the right.

336muffin · 12-10-2013, 04:41 PM

We had a 96 Eagle, great coach! Good fuel milage if you keep it in 6th gear also. The quality is excellent, as is the factory support. 40ft has not given us a problem, that's why we went bigger.

FormerBoater · 12-10-2013, 04:44 PM

My first coach is in my signature.

Easy to drive, never had an issue with length.

Sure like the color of yours LOL!

gripper · 12-10-2013, 05:00 PM

My coach is only 1' smaller than your 40' and I have never had a problem getting into most parks. However, I have called ahead (always) and have occasionally been told that I was too long. This mostly happened in State Parks. I have never had a problem in handling the coach. You shouldn't either, after a short time driving it. Good luck and welcome to Irv2!

Larry Young · 12-10-2013, 05:11 PM

We have a 40 MH this is getting to be a very popular length. Yes there are some State campgrounds with limits that will not allow you to stay in a few campgrounds. However most all commercial campgrounds and most state campgrounds will handle 40' Mh's. Driving a 40' Mh is no more difficult than driving a 35' unit. Just be careful when making right hand turns and don't turn to sharply, be sure the rear of the coach clears all curbs light poles stop signs etc. You will find the extra space makes up for any disadvantages.

Ray,IN · 12-10-2013, 05:23 PM

You are in for a surprise. Only older state and national parks sites will be too short for a 40' RV, and then most have a few sites that will accommodate a 40' RV. That's not the surprise. The surprise will be the effortless driving(after you become accustomed) with your pusher, whereas your gas MH's were less stable. My wife is a we bit of a woman, and she loves driving our 40' pusher (towing Jeep).