Community Forums

Ddubya · 10-03-2019, 11:22 AM

We are looking at used Diesel Pushers under 40 feet..
So far we have pretty much decided on either Tiffen or Newmar. There are floor plans in both categories that we can live with.
My question is should we be looking at newer Ventana,Phaeton or slightly older Dutch Star and Allegro Bus in the same price range? All comments welcome.

okcnewbie · 10-03-2019, 11:30 AM

Quote:

Originally Posted by Ddubya

My question is should we be looking at newer Ventana,Phaeton or slightly older Dutch Star and Allegro Bus in the same price range? All comments welcome.

Sure.

If floor plan is the most important than you are already going to be very limited. Why limit yourself even more?

My general feeling is that; if two used MH's are worth 150k now and one is 5 years old and the other is 15 than the older coach is more desirable.
You may feel differently.

Every person is different and you haven't given us a lot to work with.

Good luck....... we might even be looking at the same MH's.

KiteSquid · 10-03-2019, 11:46 AM

I would pick a side radiator over a rear radiator unit.

Ddubya · 10-03-2019, 12:07 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by KiteSquid

I would pick a side radiator over a rear radiator unit.

Because of ease of maintenance or other reasons?

doc · 10-03-2019, 02:18 PM

This is our first Newmar coach. Do like the quality in the Canyon Starr gasser. I am sure the diesels are just as nice.
Never owned a Tiffen, but have looked at their Zephyr years ago. Very nice as well.
Depending on the overall shape of both, you will do fine with either.

redrhinino · 10-03-2019, 05:25 PM

We are ready to pull the trigger, but we can't come to an agreement. I want a 2005 DP, (38 to 40 ft) in the $65K to $85K range, built between 2005 and 2009.

My better half wants to buy a little newer, and spend a little more. Our budget will allow us to go as high as $125K, total (including taxes, tow bar, etc.)

I'm thinking that if we spend $80K, it leaves us plenty for repairs/upgrades (like a custom cabinet for a TV, and adding solar) and maintenance agreement.

Anybody have any input for us?

Also, I know some manufacturers make 3 or 4 lines (i.e. Holiday Rambler) with different initial price points. Is there anyway to determine which versions were originally built as higher end coaches other than the prices?

Thanks in advance.

Traxless · 10-03-2019, 06:21 PM

http://www.irv2.com/forums/f103/vent...ar-463931.html

http://www.irv2.com/forums/f106/phae...us-463929.html

Kinda of asking the same question three times.

FIRE UP · 10-03-2019, 07:56 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by redrhinino

We are ready to pull the trigger, but we can't come to an agreement. I want a 2005 DP, (38 to 40 ft) in the $65K to $85K range, built between 2005 and 2009.

My better half wants to buy a little newer, and spend a little more. Our budget will allow us to go as high as $125K, total (including taxes, tow bar, etc.)

I'm thinking that if we spend $80K, it leaves us plenty for repairs/upgrades (like a custom cabinet for a TV, and adding solar) and maintenance agreement.

Anybody have any input for us?

Also, I know some manufacturers make 3 or 4 lines (i.e. Holiday Rambler) with different initial price points. Is there anyway to determine which versions were originally built as higher end coaches other than the prices?

Thanks in advance.

I personally think YOUR approach to this purchase is using WAY more common sense. Motorhomes, like all rolling stock in America, are NOT INVESTMENTS. So, why not drop back a few years, get a low mileage, less used, primo unit for a lesser price? That way, you don't eat so much devaluation. But, you get a quality unit. Now, I'm speaking from a tad bit of experience. We purchased our '04 Itasca Horizon, 36GD with the CAT C-7 330HP about 8 years ago for $90K. Other than a few maintenance frequencies and some smaller repairs, it's been a great coach, built basically by Winnebago.
But, the point is, by dropping back, you already know that, you can get a more quality unit with better options, for less money. And, you stay out of the later smog engines.
Scott

timjet · 10-04-2019, 04:11 AM

You pose an interesting delima, one I had to answer a few years ago. I choose the older higher quality route and am happy I did, but here are some issues to consider.
Most motorhomes use the same house components so my purchase had older AC's, water heater, furnaces, steps, converter/inverter, dash air, generator, and awnings, all of which I've had to replace or repair within 2 years of purchase.

I do like the quality of the cabinets, floor, and other details like air leveling, IFS, a side radiator and other details I take for granted that other cheaper units may not have. I love the ride and stability but never having driven another motorhome I'm not qualified to make an opinion on the ride characteristics.

An older Dutch Star or Tiffin Bus will likely serve you well, but so will a Phanton or Vantana. Both have an excellent CS reputation. I do believe Newmar was purchased by Winnie however that should make no difference. Just know the older the unit the more maintenance you will have to contend with.

KiteSquid · 10-04-2019, 06:28 AM

Quote:

Originally Posted by Ddubya

Because of ease of maintenance or other reasons?

Easyer to change a fan belt.

but more importnatly the radiator's intake side is not in the dirt/dust/oil stream of the motorhome.

Rear radiatiors are not a bad thing, but you MUST check them early, often and deffently before a long climb with your rig. A dirty radiator wont get you up Wolf Creek Pass without a boil over...........

pduggs · 10-04-2019, 06:55 AM

There is nothing wrong buying new but with the rapid depreciation and the high number of quality lightly used coaches readily available for purchase, why buy new?

We intended to buy new but after looking closely at them versus used, we are very happy with our 11 year coach.

FatChance · 10-04-2019, 08:30 AM

When we went through this three and a half years ago, we bought a 2004 Newmar Mountain Aire DP that was in great condition. We have full timed in it ever since and have never had any regrets about that decision.