Community Forums

edge68474 · 04-15-2020, 08:09 PM

Hi folks. A friend of mine is interested in a National Dolphin MH. The write up says it has a Duraframe construction. I did a little reading on it and from my view, limited on the subject, it sounds good. This is a 2004 year and my sister has a 2007 year model.
Of those in the know, what can you tell me about this frame construction??
Thank you very much.

Fred and Bonnie · 04-15-2020, 11:02 PM

I feel believe that is term NRV used for the modifications to the basic chassis from the various suppliers.

Fred

edge68474 · 04-15-2020, 11:16 PM

NRV.

?
I'd like to know a little more about the Duraframe.
Does one notice visually of a better frame than the others. Maybe, does the frame squeak or make noise, or NOT with the Duraframe. Those kind of things is what I am looking for. Thanks for your reply. I see you have a National.

chboone · 04-16-2020, 01:07 AM

I have a 99 Dolphin that has a Duraframe. From what have seen and read the frame of the house is built on a jig that matches the Chassis the house will be installed on. When the house frame is completed it is placed on the chassis. Plates welded on the house frame are welded to the chassis frame.

MoCoTom · 04-16-2020, 09:00 PM

National had a patent on the design of the structure it attached to the chassis manufacturer's frame. One of the things that National did different was they used all steel structural framing even in their bonded sidewalls as opposed to most other brands use aluminum. They are a well built motorhome
Tom

edge68474 · 04-18-2020, 10:11 AM

Quote:

Originally Posted by MoCoTom

National had a patent on the design of the structure it attached to the chassis manufacturer's frame. One of the things that National did different was they used all steel structural framing even in their bonded sidewalls as opposed to most other brands use aluminum. They are a well built motorhome
Tom

Thanks Tom. And thank you for your service. I am ex Navy, 1964-68.
I kind of figured that it would be a good frame compared to others. To bad they quit. The interior of my sister's is done pretty well, woodwork etc. I always open doors when I look at RV's to see the hardware and how the woodwork is done. Ok gang, Thank you much. Have a Great Week.

Gary RVRoamer · 04-18-2020, 01:16 PM

As others have said, Duraframe is NRV's name for the patented metal subfloor structure they attach to the actual vehicle chassis. Other manufacturers also use metal subfloor frames and sometimes give them their own unique names, so Duraframe isn't all that special or unique.

NRV (and others) also use steel framing in the sidewalls and roof. Some use aluminum instead and a lower-priced models still used wood.

My 2002 Dolphin LX needed to have additional bolts add to the subfloor to stop squeaking but it was fine after that. The 2002 was a totally new design for Dolphins, so they needed to get a few wrinkles straightened out that year. From what I hear, the 2004's were pretty good. A buddy of mine had a 2005 Seabreeze and it seemed solid.

I have a 2004 Dolphin spec brochure if that would be of use to you.

edge68474 · 04-19-2020, 07:29 AM

Thanks Gary,but no on the speck sheet. He ended buying a Coachmen Mirada, 2011. I looked at it and I was impressed with how good of shape it was in on the interior. Pilot and co-pilots seats looked almost brand new, some kind of leather. Pretty solid rig. The paint needs a good waxing. I think it's a 34 footer, with 2 AC's. He said it drove nice. Maybe he will let me drive it. Same exact motor as mine, V-10. Now I know where to get parts, LOL. Just kidding.
Thank you all. Have a Good One.

Gary RVRoamer · 04-20-2020, 11:50 AM

Presumably you both have the Ford F53 motorhome chassis. A 2009 and 2011 F53 ought to be almost the same, but F53 comes in different length (wheelbase) and weight (GVWR) sizes and that may mean different wheels, axles, suspension, etc.

edge68474 · 04-21-2020, 06:33 AM

Hi Gary. Yes, they are almost the same. Mine is a 30ft his is a 33ft. GVWR are the same according to the tag in the MH, 20,500 lbs.
In time I'm sure I will be able to compare more closely. Yesterday we was messing around with his leveling jacks, Appears his may be all electric where mine is hydraulic. I posted a question on that in another subforum. Are their electric as well as hydraulic leveling jacks. Well heck, while I'm here I might as well ask, lol.
Thank you Gary. You are one of those with good information that you share with us. Much appreciated.