Talked me out of the Dp

[PbdBlue]

Have owned both. V-10 is a much better powerplant for a MH IMO.

[Waiter21]

I have a 1999 F53, Although it has (had) issues, its been a good and reliable chassis. Mine is the 275 hp, 4 speed tranny (4R100).

I have a checklist that you may find useful if inspecting the F53, and specifically the 1999 - 2005.


http://www.1999southwind.com/f53-ins...nce-checklist/


Remember, this is a 20 year old chassis, so there may be a lot of issues that require attention simply because of the age. On the positive note, because of its age, there's a good user history to go on.


Here are some highlights that apply to my 1999 F53 and may apply to yours

• SAFETY RECALL - Take the VIN # to any Ford dealer and verify the Cruise Control recall has been complied with.
• Spitting plugs - Change plugs, torque new plugs to 22-25 ft lbs.
• Transmission doesn't get cooled by engine radiator on 1999/2000. Either change radiator to one that has a built in tranny cooler or watch how you use it, particularly on hot days in stop and go traffic.
• Broken exhaust manifold studs.
• Brake pads and hoses
• Shock absorbers (and do the CHF)

You can find several TSBs and other maintenance on my site:

1999 Southwind 35S – Southwind by Fleetwood – sporting its new paint job