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Newrvuser · 04-02-2011, 10:09 PM

Hello, I'm looking at purchasing a used Class C but don't know which brand to go for. I like the 24 to 26' Ford E450 V10 (torqueshift or 4R100 trans but not comfortable with E40D) chasis configurations. Currently I'm looking at the following: 2000 Bigfoot loaded, with heated basement; 2007 Winnebago with slide; 2009 Dutchman; 2004 Gulfstream; 2009 Coachman Freelander... what is the difference between all of these as they are all E450 V10s and roughly the same price??? Being a newbie I'd appreciate any feedback of these models before I take the $40K plunge.
Much appreciated,
Newrvuser

94-Newmar · 04-03-2011, 04:50 AM

Welcome aboard!

I cannot offer any advice on the chassis platform or coach manufacturers since I have zero experience with any that you've mentioned. I'm sure those experienced in your choices will chime in. Meanwhile use the "Search" function in the toolbar above. There are many spirited conversations, rants and raves about all the brands, models and chassis you've mentioned.

Once you've narrowed your choices I suggest using one of several pre-sales type guides that we can link you to. Many of these have extensive item checklists to run through ensuring everything in the coach works as it should regardless of brand or model. There are so many systems and things to check that it's difficult to remember them all without some sort of checklist.

Keep us posted!

bjsheldon · 04-03-2011, 05:11 AM

You will love a slide; however, look at the floorplans and try to imagine how they will fit your family. Its hard to go wrong with a Winnebago, but milage and condition are more important. Be sure to look for delam which indicates a leak. Make sure all the appliances work including the generater. Look at tires for sidewall cracking.
Good luck

rmmpe · 04-03-2011, 06:42 AM

Don't overlook a Phoenix Cruiser.
We traded in our 36' Alpine DP on a 2007 PC 2350 on the Ford E350 chassis last year and put 14,000 Coast to Coast miles on it (including the PCH and Beartooth Pass) with absolutely no issues. I did, however, replace the tires 600 miles into the trip.

We liked it so well we traded it in on a slightly larger 2010 Phoenix Cruiser 2551 on the Ford E450 chassis at the PC factory in Elkhart, IN last month (our PC 2350 is on the Phoenix Cruiser web site under "Inventory").

Good luck in your search.

clarkgriswold · 04-08-2011, 01:32 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by bjsheldon

You will love a slide; however, look at the floorplans and try to imagine how they will fit your family. Its hard to go wrong with a Winnebago, but milage and condition are more important. Be sure to look for delam which indicates a leak. Make sure all the appliances work including the generater. Look at tires for sidewall cracking.
Good luck

I'd like to echo your thoughts. Based on our experience you can't have too many slides!

As to the mfg......I've spoken with several shop mechancis and everytime I as the question, "Which RV do you see the least in here?" .....the answer is always the same - Winnebago. That's my thoughts anyway.

TXiceman · 04-08-2011, 03:38 PM

There is nothing wrong with an E4OD transmission....Provided it is not abused. Make sure the unit has a large external transmission oil cooler. Also, change the transmission oil (complete not just the pan oil) every 30,000 miles as a maximum.

When we had the E450 and V-10, I changed the oil to Mobil 1 ATF and it dropped the transmission temperature about 15 degrees F.

The folks that have problems with the E4OD tend to abuse them.

The later models had a 4R100 which was a bit better, but the above comments apply to either one.

ken