Community Forums

matthew6279 · 09-09-2015, 08:50 PM

Hi there, I'm Matt and I'm new here. I live in Chattanooga, TN. I have had several trailers and I am looking at moving to a motorhome. I have been researching to death, and have read many threads comparing motorhomes. Currently I am undecided on whether to go with a Class C, Super C, or Class A. My budget is $40,000. I am currently looking at a few Class C's and a great deal on a Super C. The problem is I need to two my Jeep Wrangler at 4500 lbs. The Class C will actually give me more usable weight than the Super C is. The Super C is very nice and fits for us in every way except the weight. C5500 Chassis, Allison trans and Chevy 8.1 motor. My best guess is that on the Super C after I add in my Jeep, myself, wife and dog, full LP and 10 gal fresh water I will only have around 750 lbs for everything else. The few Class C's I have looked at, Ford 450 with V10 after adding the same amount I would still have around 2000lbs for everything else. Class A's are pushing our budget to find one that we like (Floorplan, features etc) and going with a gas engine we are in the same weight boat.

Any input would be greatly appreciated. At this point I think I have analysis paralysis!

ArmandV · 09-09-2015, 08:57 PM

Welcome aboard!

With a $40,000 budget, you'll probably have just enough to get a used late-model Class C. What make and model? That is the question.

There are plenty of people here with towing experience that will be a great help to you.

matthew6279 · 09-09-2015, 09:09 PM

The Super C I am looking at is a 2005 Dutchmen Four Winds 34r. C5500 chassis, 8.1 chevy engine.

I have looked at several Class C's, so many I can't even keep them straight. All on the 450 with the V10. From what I read general consensus is stay away from Coachmen.

So I have looked at a 2006 Four Winds by Dutchmen, regular class C, 31P.
A 2008 Chateau by Four Winds. 31F
A 2005 Holiday Rambler Atlantis 31PBS.
2005 Jayco Granite Ridge 31
2007 Forest River Sunseeker 3100SS.
2006 Four Winds Chateau Citation 31'

No shortage of them around here!

ArmandV · 09-09-2015, 09:16 PM

Which ever one you decide on, try to have a RV inspector check it out for you. He/she could save you a lot of bucks and heartache later.

matthew6279 · 09-09-2015, 09:18 PM

Where do you find an RV inspector? Can I do that if buying from a dealer? Thanks!

ArmandV · 09-09-2015, 09:24 PM

Either private party or from a dealer.

I found one right off the bat via Google in Chattanooga: RV Presale/Auction Inspections in the Chattanooga, TN Area - RVs - Campers - Caravans

Bruce C · 09-10-2015, 03:11 AM

Good luck in your search.

denlock · 09-10-2015, 05:35 AM

matthew6279 · 09-10-2015, 06:07 AM

Another question, is 600-700 lbs of carrying capacity too little? The class C's will actually give us more carrying capacity than the Super C. The Super C is much larger and roomier though. I have 3 boys and a dog. So counting towing, occupants, full lp and 10 gallons of fresh water just for the road we are left with 600-700 lbs for everything else. Too little? A regular class C, since it is a bit smaller than the super, would leave us with around 2000lbs of carrying capacity. I'm ok with the smaller class C but of course would like the larger if possible.

MSHappyCampers · 09-10-2015, 08:55 AM

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

Hope you find the right rig for your needs!

Good luck, happy trails, and God bless!

hal1phx · 09-10-2015, 08:58 AM

Good luck with your search ...

LynnD · 09-10-2015, 03:55 PM

Too green to give you any advice.....

MCJones · 09-10-2015, 04:35 PM

My advice based on experience is that you can waste a lot of money on working your way up the RV chain. I suggest getting as fresh a used class A as possible and skip the C's. JMO so good luck mark