Community Forums

Mtek · 09-01-2015, 10:39 AM

Hi,

Just joined forum as we are planning on getting a diesel Pusher in the (hopefully) not too distant future. I have browsed the forums as a guest and have been astounded at the overall willingness to help I have seen.

So, like all newbies I come with my question. How on earth are the various manufacturers rated? I mean, I have no issue with cars. I've known the relative quality/dependability of the various makes for decades but when I look at the lists of manufacturers out there I just don't know where to start.

So, in summary, what's the best way to get my knowledge of manufacturers up to speed? Is there a web-site that ranks them?

If I'm going to spend what it seems to take I'd like to make sure that I'm getting a reliable machine. On the flip side of that if there are makes that are known for less-than-acceptable build quality and customer support, I don't want to waste time looking at them.

Any and all input and assistance is very much appreciated!!

Thanks,
Jim

Fred1609 · 09-01-2015, 10:47 AM

Hi Jim...Welcome to IRV2. I think experience over the years gives you the insight in terms of good better and best with regards to rigs, at least that how it worked for me. Keep reading the forums and asking questions and you will begin to see the rigs with problems in the build and design and those that have few problems other than the every day wear and tear.

MSHappyCampers · 09-01-2015, 12:16 PM

Hi Jim! Welcome to IRV2! We're sure glad you joined us!

Everybody's got their own idea of what's best. You just gotta do a LOT of research on floor plans, etc., and a LOT of tire kicking! Hope you find the perfect rig for your needs!

Good luck, happy trails, and God bless!

denlock · 09-01-2015, 03:33 PM

Bruce C · 09-02-2015, 06:02 AM

JMonroe · 09-02-2015, 07:00 AM

So happy to see someone from RI on the forums. I have deep family roots in that diminutive, by physical size only, state.

To give you a kick start; you'll find many, if not most, brands will share a few common chassis, with some exceptions. In other words, Freightliner and Spartan, just to name a couple, sell chassis to multiple RV manufacturers. You'll find these chassis probably come with engines by one of three engine manufactures, depending on the year built (Detroit, Caterpillar or Cummins). If it's a late model, dollars to donuts it will have a Cummins power plant. Pretty much everything will have some version of an Allison transmission. RV manufacturers that buy large numbers may have specified some modifications to the basic chassis but most of the "truck" part of any RV, gas or diesel, will be shared by thousands of others.

Now, the "house". Every manufacturer seems to have had bad years and good years. Once you narrow down your possibilities a bit you can ask specific questions, in the appropriate forums, about specific models or years.

It may sound like a daunting task, but one most of us have undertaken to a successful conclusion, many without the advantage of IRV2 or even the internet when they were shopping. Your new friends here will help you through.

Good luck!

becks · 09-02-2015, 08:31 AM

My advice is to buy a used coach from a high end builder. Some of which would include Monoco, Country Coach, Newmar, Travel Supreme, American Coach, and Holiday Rambler. Or if budget allows Prevost, Foretravel, and Newall.

wildmandmc · 09-04-2015, 12:52 AM

welcome to the forum.
I too an originally from Rhody. moved to fla 12 yrs ago. miss my chowdah lol
DP's are the way to go. better mpg per $$$. but has a downside. less maintaince but when you need something fix, prepare to shell out those $$.
few things, look for hrs on generator, 5k is when they go sour.
1000 hrs is good . (talking used dp's). tires make sure under 7 yrs old, even tho tread is good. join a good sam club or passport america, saves on camping fee's.

as for the RI part, born prov, went to cranston west hs.