Community Forums

JustCruising · 10-28-2013, 04:31 AM

Morning Everyone

We just purchased our first diesel pusher this weekend. Everything about a diesel is new to us. We are picking the coach up on Wednesday and was hoping for advice on what we should ask their tech to explain or show us. Thanks! Frank

Steve N Sal · 10-28-2013, 05:04 AM

Congrats on your new purchase. 1. My advice is to learn everything you can about the air brake system. I don't know if the dealer will help you with that to any extent but there are plenty of searches you can do on the system and it's operation. Many look past this and say it's know big deal but trust me it is. 2. If you have an Aqua Hot system aboard also check it's function and maintenance requirements. I'm sure some DP owners will chime in with some other suggestions. Good Luck and Enjoy your coach.

tranquility · 10-28-2013, 05:05 AM

Take your time when doing the PDI. Do not leave the lot until you understand everything and operate everything you can. Then stay at their CG or a CG close by until you know everything works and you and DW are happy. Take notes and don't be afraid to ask questions. Its your $$$$$ and your new home. Keep a good log and document any problems. After a good shake down trip take it back to dealer for the fixes you will surly find. Good luck. We just are finishing a nine month trip to the west. Eleven K Miles, No problems. Now doing yearly PM, another important thing to plan for. Have FUN!

H. Miller · 10-28-2013, 05:15 AM

Strictly diesel stuff ??? Where are all the filters? When to change? What the "diesel gauges" are telling you. How to operate/maintain the airbag system (most diesels don't have springs).
Get and read the owners manual!!!
Obviously many other systems but you gave no indication as to previous experience so none discussed...

Rich and Cork · 10-28-2013, 10:28 AM

Quote:

Originally Posted by H. Miller

Strictly diesel stuff ??? Where are all the filters? When to change? What the "diesel gauges" are telling you. How to operate/maintain the airbag system (most diesels don't have springs).
Get and read the owners manual!!!
Obviously many other systems but you gave no indication as to previous experience so none discussed...

Good idea on manuals. Go pick them up today and then ask your questions when you pick up the coach. Enjoy.

AISTQM · 10-28-2013, 11:27 AM

Cold weather starting.

MJFZ · 10-28-2013, 12:11 PM

Congratulations. Two years ago, I was in your shoes. Don't be afraid to ask questions and gain understanding. I assume it is on a Freightliner chassis? If so, I highly suggest traveling to Gaffney, SC to attend their camp Freightliner 2 day course. Besides all the great advice here, make sure you understand how to drive a diesel pusher, the use of gears and auxiliary braking when going down hills, and the use of engine RPM ( for torque and engine cooling) when going up hills. Situational awareness is key to driving a large vehicle. Understand where all four corners are and where they are going. Have the dealer walk you through turning ( watching tail swing), backing, use of mirrors and back up camera for highway driving and lane changing. I also suggest going through the 6 month and annual maintenance required for your chassis, as well as any maintainable and or winterizing needed for the box on the chassis. Go slow, and enjoy!!

Mike

EZDZIT · 10-28-2013, 12:30 PM

X2 on Camp Freightliner and if your co-pilot has any interest that person can/should attend too! I am sure you will both benefit. While there you can also get your first chassis PM done.
If you would kindly add the make, year, model as well as any engine specs to your signature if will help the experts on this forum answer your questions.
Take your time, enjoy, have fun!

djbmsu · 10-28-2013, 05:31 PM

Ask them if they do a cd rom for you while they are showing you everything. If not use an IPad and have someone do a movie for you for later review.

jerichorick · 10-28-2013, 07:00 PM

One thing not mentioned is getting the coach weighed and aligned after you are fully moved in. The weight knowledge is for putting the correct pressure in your tires. The alignment is to include ride height. When we load our coaches they can lyst because our belongings, fuel and fresh water act as ballast. We can't compensate as a ship can by pumping water around but the suspension can be adjusted to compensate. Tire wear and handling are greatly affected by the alignment. The suggestion of going to Gaffney is great. Make an appointment then you don't have to sit in the campground for many days as we did.

Also, if you have a generator auto start system learn how this works by running it through its paces during the walkthrough. And, if a slide fails are the tools needed on board? How do you use them? Where is the jack fluid tank located?

When the time comes you can ask more specific questions. I just hope your dealer can fix your warranty problems quickly and completely. In any case, happy trails and many years of enjoying your new vacation home.

Rick