Community Forums

trx430ex · 01-31-2021, 09:08 PM

Have to concur with Ivylog on this one, suspend this sale.. Wait.. Google is showing no comparisons. All point back to same dealer.

Unless you have a reference to 4 of the same coaches in 4 different locations going for nearly the same price you have nothing right now.

Not finding anything on the same rig in different states, pause, wait, and find the same rig for sale in different states.

There is no baseline for price, nationwide.

Also double check the year, for 2013 I am seeing a DS, DL, & TS Models, not seeing a OT, model. There are 3 different models in this year, & OT model is not one of them.

You sure it is a 2013? or is it a 2012, or 2014?

Finally found it, What chassis is it on? Ford 22k,24k,26k,?

kkbward · 01-31-2021, 09:59 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by trx430ex

Also double check the year, for 2013 I am seeing a DS, DL, & TS Models, not seeing a OT, model. There are 3 different models in this year, & OT model is not one of them.

You sure it is a 2013? or is it a 2012, or 2014?

For sure a 2013 - i just noticed in my OP - i forgot the "S" - it is a TS model...

It's interesting you bring up comps - it was the first thing my wife and i did when we go home - we couldn't find anything either... Arghhh - this is feeling like a loser deal...

It's totally OK - its why I posted here - i have ZERO class A experience and I cant trust dealers as far as we can throw them... Its all a learning process...

Still interested in other opinions, but I am leaning toward holding out for a better coach...

kkbward · 02-01-2021, 01:16 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by trx430ex

Finally found it, What chassis is it on? Ford 22k,24k,26k,?

So it has a Freightliner chassis - seems like it may be one of the lighter ones driving the low tow capacity....

Here is the brochure - some info in here -

https://library.rvusa.com/brochure/c...rybrochure.pdf

Cooperhawk · 02-01-2021, 01:32 PM

The trouble and also the value of this forum is that whatever you propose, it will get shot down by some folks. This doesn't mean they're wrong, it only means they have other opinions. I have not seen a posting yet from someone who owns a similar coach. That would mean more to me.

There is always a desire for more power, room, conveniences, ect. Just do your due diligence and check it all out, and if you feel it's OK, then go for it. When you're buying something as complicated as a MH there are a lot of things to consider. Very few guarantees.

brokenrule · 02-01-2021, 06:38 PM

Sounds like a good deal to me. I would go with the agm batteries and ask that they don’t put China tires on it. On our first used rig I asked for new tires as part of the deal. I got the cheapest big rig trailer tires. Totally disappointed. Next rig had 8 year old tires and they offered new. I took a discount in price instead and put on my preferred tires.

TampaDave · 02-01-2021, 07:27 PM

We are living/working in a Tiffin 40, similar layout. Plenty of room, we don't particularly want to go bigger.

Check engine, you'd be surprised what all can happen. Even to a diesel. Shoot, especially to a diesel, there are a couple of ways to grenade an engine. Oil analysis, drive it around and THEN check for oil leaks, etc.

Make sure they aren't putting el cheapo tires on there, I went there once, never again

Residential refrigerator?

If you plan to spend time in cold weather, check how well that thing is insulated. Basement heat? Continuous hot water? Aquahot for the win here; propane is a PIA if you live aboard.

In general, it's a question of whether the design parameters were focused on short term like summer vacation use. Big 3 has an edge here, even if you have to go a couple years older. Better customer support too, and you'll use it. Have you looked at Phaeton, 2010 - 2011 model year?

kkbward · 02-01-2021, 07:50 PM

OK folks - We are 95% out on this one - i think i am convinced it would be a decent deal for a camping vehicle, but full-time seems very questionable.

With that, we looked at a 2013 ITASCA ELLIPSE 42GD (transwest in CO) today that is currently overpriced @ $210k, but at a realistic price closer to $170k may make it worth the substantially higher price. 450 HP and 15k towing. The layout matches our needs better and already has most of what we want.

I am not sure the dealer will consider the lower price - but at least there are comps around this price range and people really like these coaches from the reviews I have been able to find. its not a tiffin or a newmar, but these seem to have been well built and close to comparable...

All the same inspections still apply - including figuring out the questionable passenger side slide (an issue i am finding) - but it has potential. If it any point it seems questionable, we can just wait....

Overall, I know folks have many opinions and there will be plenty of people who think this one is a loser too, but I am very glad to hear all opinions just to help us have as educated decision as we possibly can.... I will be VERY interested in hearing from anyone who actually has a similar coach from a similar time period...

My thanks once again,

Brian

trx430ex · 02-01-2021, 09:00 PM

AS much as I like the features of this new rig I have to give it a thumbs down.
For only one reason.

Front Brake Type Hydraulic Disc Rear Brake Type Hydraulic Drum.
Front Brake Type Hydraulic Disc Rear Brake Type Hydraulic Drum.[/b]]https://www.rvusa.com/rv-guide/2013-itasca-ellipse-class-a-floorplan-42gd-tr13583

This rig can not stop itself at 44,000 pounds needs air brakes.

I am at 23,000 pounds with disc brakes all the way around and am disappointed at stopping power.

Take it for a drive and stomp on the brake, bet it is going to take forever to stop.

Anything past 30,000 pounds needs air brakes.

A nice unit, but it will not stop in a reasonable [safe] amount of time.

Ivylog · 02-02-2021, 07:10 AM

Ain’t no way a rig that big has hydraulic brakes in this day and age, even though the linked brochure says it does. Searched for brochures on it and found one that knows what it’s talking about.
https://library.rvusa.com/brochure/e...bro_2013_x.pdf

Ivylog · 02-02-2021, 07:50 AM

OP (we’re not on a first name basis yet) considering the Ellipse’s front axle is within 1400 lbs of the previous rear axle, CCC will not be a problem for FT. You are headed in the right direction, BUT (sorry, but there is a BUT) actually several, but none are deal breakers...more just personal opinions.
House structure is aluminum bolted to the steel chassis, only a issue in a rollover which is not likely to happen.
I realize the bath and half floor plan is the “in thing” BUT I like a bath and a quarter...2 sinks in the BR area saving more area for the LR. The 42QD has a small rear full bath with a door to provide more privacy and smell control than many bath and half. The full wall slide does not excite me structurally or mechanically. Make them put the slides in (on any rig) and see how things work.

42GD has the uncommon front kitchen and based on how few there are, most (me included) do not like it. Biggest negative for us is the front 2 seats (turned around) are not part of the LR.

okcnewbie · 02-02-2021, 08:02 AM

Quote:

Originally Posted by kkbward

OK folks - We are 95% out on this one - i think i am convinced it would be a decent deal for a camping vehicle, but full-time seems very questionable.

With that, we looked at a 2013 ITASCA ELLIPSE 42GD (transwest in CO) today that is currently overpriced @ $210k, but at a realistic price closer to $170k may make it worth the substantially higher price. 450 HP and 15k towing. The layout matches our needs better and already has most of what we want.

I am not sure the dealer will consider the lower price - but at least there are comps around this price range and people really like these coaches from the reviews I have been able to find. its not a tiffin or a newmar, but these seem to have been well built and close to comparable...

All the same inspections still apply - including figuring out the questionable passenger side slide (an issue i am finding) - but it has potential. If it any point it seems questionable, we can just wait....

Overall, I know folks have many opinions and there will be plenty of people who think this one is a loser too, but I am very glad to hear all opinions just to help us have as educated decision as we possibly can.... I will be VERY interested in hearing from anyone who actually has a similar coach from a similar time period...

My thanks once again,

Brian

The Ellipse/Tour QD model starting at years 2011 was my dream MH and we were planning on spending that much until I lost a shirtload in the market. Long story but it has to do with my retirement being in 2020.
We decided to spend way less and found a Monaco Diplomat that needs a little TLC for 54K. We're very happy. I am handy or we would have to go with something much newer.

Teamfoxy · 02-02-2021, 08:19 AM

As a full timer in a 2011 Mirada, I would have no problem with a similer year Sportcoach. We have looked at other coaches and have a very hard time finding anything we like as well. No way I would trade it for a Canyon Star or Open Road. Our OCCC is 4041 lbs and that is higher than many similar sized coaches on heavier chassis. The ride is good without having to add suspension upgrades. We have had no builder related problems, just minor maintenance issues that any coach will have.
You seem to have found a good deal, in this market, and I would not let people who have never owned a Coachmen dicourage you.

RV-Writer · 02-02-2021, 08:52 AM

Quote:

Originally Posted by kkbward

OK folks - We are 95% out on this one - i think i am convinced it would be a decent deal for a camping vehicle, but full-time seems very questionable.

With that, we looked at a 2013 ITASCA ELLIPSE 42GD (transwest in CO) today that is currently overpriced @ $210k, but at a realistic price closer to $170k may make it worth the substantially higher price. 450 HP and 15k towing. The layout matches our needs better and already has most of what we want.

I am not sure the dealer will consider the lower price - but at least there are comps around this price range and people really like these coaches from the reviews I have been able to find. its not a tiffin or a newmar, but these seem to have been well built and close to comparable...

All the same inspections still apply - including figuring out the questionable passenger side slide (an issue i am finding) - but it has potential. If it any point it seems questionable, we can just wait....

Overall, I know folks have many opinions and there will be plenty of people who think this one is a loser too, but I am very glad to hear all opinions just to help us have as educated decision as we possibly can.... I will be VERY interested in hearing from anyone who actually has a similar coach from a similar time period...

My thanks once again,

Brian

Ok, Transwest in CO would be a deal breaker for me. IMHO they were dishonest with ME - my opinion - late 2016 I bought my rig from them. They “guaranteed” new tires, and put new ones on fronts. Rears? They were mounted so I couldn’t check date code on dually rears. THEY WERE 8 years old when I drove off the lot. Didnt find out until 2019. Did they do that? No idea. MY FAULT FOR NOT INSISTING ON VERIFICATION BY DISMOUNTING AND CHECKING

My rig has had constant fuel leaks (every year for first 3 years). Broke down on first trip from colorado to idaho. 1500.00 later, another leak same trip. Replaced fuel injector pump, engine water pump, all belts etc since.

Ibought an older rig and got older rig problems. But that tire issue put my life at risk. They couldnt give me a new rig and expect me to trust them. And yes, we did NOT have the new tires in the contract, but verbal and I wrote about the agreement here on IRV before the purchase was finalized. my fault. Get it in writing.

Anyways, I still have the rig. Replaced a lot of house items (batteries, water pump, some plumbing, microwave/convec, water heater, main awning, heater fan motor, toilet, television, windshield (due to crack but there was no caulking so air leaks were massive), full wall slide kitchen plumbing leaks, caulking around sink, needs new backup camera. Many others.

Things I wish for: Side radiator on DP (Easier access to engine repairs!) Genny on slide out! Basement heat for water bay.

We love our rig. Heavy enough other rigs dont push us around. 38Ft so we fit most places, too old for some parks though we look pretty goid. Check for paint fade/crackling.

Check brakes, air system, fuel/oil/radiator leaks, check oil blow by tubes to be sure not throwing oil into rear radiator, hours on genny, maintenance on genny & rig, new hoses & belts.

Check for ease of winterization and water leaks (water in fresh tank, turn on water pump and listen for pressurization drops)

Make sure your battery charger will fully charge Lifeline AGM’s - mine wont

Check for batt management systems, inverter? (mine doesnt have one), solar?

Chassis rust/corrosion, air tank / Air bag leaks, and put jacks down over night and see if they hold. FYI - my front drivers side jack wouldnt hold, Transwest said “nothing wrong” Got tired of it 8 months later and found the hydraulic line at top of jack was loose - SIMPLE - but they just blew me off at Transwest.

ok - goid luck (All of this is my opinion and experience)

Cincy Steve · 02-02-2021, 03:51 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by kkbward

....we looked at a 2013 ITASCA ELLIPSE 42GD (transwest in CO) today that is currently overpriced @ $210k, but at a realistic price closer to $170k may make it worth the substantially higher price. 450 HP and 15k towing. The layout matches our needs better and already has most of what we want.

I am not sure the dealer will consider the lower price - but at least there are comps around this price range and people really like these coaches from the reviews I have been able to find....

All the same inspections still apply - including figuring out the questionable passenger side slide (an issue i am finding) - but it has potential.....

Overall, I know folks have many opinions and there will be plenty of people who think this one is a loser too, but I am very glad to hear all opinions....

Everyone has opinions, so here’s another!

Bus for bus, the Ellipse is a ton more rig than the Coachman. I think that Ellipse was Itasca’s top of the line. Ellipse/Tour started on our search list before it was whittled down.

Like you, even though we’re suffering in stupid times, I believe it’s considerably over-priced & your assessment of $170k is not unreasonable. My opinion is that dealers beat heck out of everyone on trades, so dealer may only have 40-50% of advertised price in a used unit. Can’t hurt you to make a polite, low(er) offer. Very easy to bid higher the 2nd time, if you choose.

An 8 year old rig, possibly in its 9th year, would likely need all new tires & batteries. I’d certainly want the engine coolant checked/serviced, too. Engine & trans fluid analysis are good peace of mind, even though it’s a low miler. Satisfy yourself that EVERYTHING works, because I’d be amazed if a used purchase carries any “real” warranty. All bargaining chips....

We shopped leftover Newmars @ Transwest, before going a different direction in our purchase. I liked the salesman, who was very responsive to all calls & emails. Made him an offer, which they “couldn’t” accept but he was civil about it & continued to send us notices on coaches, which met our requirements, for several months after.