Community Forums

DaveBunker · 02-06-2018, 05:39 PM

I'm back, still evaluating upper class RVs to make my next purchase. First thank you all for putting up with my questions. I know enough about certain RVs, but every once in a while a good looking RV comes across the internet. My point is....A 37 foot National Tropical popped up with 23,000 miles for $59K. Original owner. We all know lots of RV companies folded in or around 2008. National was one of them. So, should I seriously consider a purchase of this RV.

Dave Bunker

lrsses · 02-06-2018, 06:09 PM

Sounds like DP with that low of mileage have it checked out but a good diesel shop before you jump in. If gas it still need to be checked closely for any problems. I have a 2004 National Sea Breeze Workhorse W22 8.1 Allison 5 speed 89000 runs great but will use oil as all the 8.1 do so I’ve been told. Good Luck

Bahamaniac · 02-06-2018, 06:10 PM

What year and how is it equipped?

Damion · 02-06-2018, 06:13 PM

I'm well pleased with my
2003 National Tradewinds LTC 7374
FL XC-Chassis, 8.3 ISC 350 Cummings
3000MH Allison, TOAD 2015 Equinox

kwanwon · 02-06-2018, 06:16 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by DaveBunker

I'm back, still evaluating upper class RVs to make my next purchase. First thank you all for putting up with my questions. I know enough about certain RVs, but every once in a while a good looking RV comes across the internet. My point is....A 37 foot National Tropical popped up with 23,000 miles for $59K. Original owner. We all know lots of RV companies folded in or around 2008. National was one of them. So, should I seriously consider a purchase of this RV.

Dave Bunker

I have a 2004 39' National Tropical and love it, I feel it was a great value.

jonesdg · 02-06-2018, 06:18 PM

We are please with our 2004 Sea Breeze 37' on W22 chassis. Just have a good inspection done. We had never heard of them either until we saw ours. We were only looking at new until we drive this one. No regrets at all. The layout and quality was a pleasant surprise.

DryCreek · 02-06-2018, 06:53 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by Damion

I'm well pleased with my
2003 National Tradewinds LTC 7374
FL XC-Chassis, 8.3 ISC 350 Cummings
3000MH Allison, TOAD 2015 Equinox

What's a "Cummings"?

rjsupersonic · 02-06-2018, 07:16 PM

National made a great product very solid, we love our Sea Breeze!

dons2346 · 02-06-2018, 09:37 PM

Check the weight of the coach. Some Tropicals were built with the front end over weight before the coach gets loaded. The weight rating had just about 400 pounds of carrying capacity

DaveBunker · 02-06-2018, 11:01 PM

Here is some more info on the National Tropical to help me make a decision. Very low miles and low generator hours. This Coach has been well maintained and being sold by original owners. Newer tires w/ low miles and all slide out awning's have been replaced. Below are amenities:
-Hydraulic Leveling System - Electric Awning - Manuel overdoor awning - 3 TV's (includes 1 outdoor) - 7.4 KW Diesel Generator - 2000 Watt Invertor - Full air ride custom fright liner chassis - Convection/Microwave combo - 4 Burner Gas Range - Side by Side Fridge/Freezer with ice maker - Large Shower over Tub - 2 Bathroom Vanities - Private Comode - Queen Bed with Memory Foam Topper - Extensive storage inside and out - Towing Ability - Dual Ceiling Air - Desk that extends - Leather recliner with ottoman - Day and Night window shades - Corian counter tops throughout - tile and carpet throughout - Cabinet for RV Washer/Dryer - DVD player that plays on all 3 TV's and surround sound system and much more. Have all orginal manuels.
Thanks, everybody for putting your 2 cents worth in...My concerns are with the C7 Cat and the potential for being underpowered pulling toad up mountain grades. Also it is not full body paint but decals. Upon inspection this weekend, I will see how it has held up to the California sun. Stay tuned and thanks for your 2 cents worth.

TMan59 · 02-07-2018, 08:58 AM

There are a whole bunch of us out here in RV land driving and enjoying RV's made by companies that are now longer around.

We now have an Alpine and before that a Monaco, both out of business.

Would it be easier some times to just own a Newmar? Yes, but not enough times for us to switch!

DaveG39 · 02-07-2018, 09:57 AM

I have 2007 TropiCal LX with Cat C-7 and have no problems on hills. Have been through US and Canadian Rockies. Allison transmission is very good and as long as you downshift going up steep hills to keep RPM's reasonable it will not overheat. Exhaust brake effective going down long hills. Very comfortable and has been cross country in US and Canada with no issues.