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Octanefam's avatar
Octanefam
Explorer
May 13, 2016

2000 Alpine

Looking at a 2000 Alpine 38fdds. Anyone have any good or bad comments as to the quality or problems that are known with Alpine.

Thanks

6 Replies

  • Outstanding handling. I mourn the loss of this company. They made an outstanding product.
  • mike brez wrote:
    Not the year you are looking at but some years had a steering bracket issue.
    Lots to read Here


    Correct. That applied to 2004 and newer. Basically a reinforcing bracket added.
  • Not the year you are looking at but some years had a steering bracket issue.
    Lots to read Here
  • I agree with Brett. These coaches are a good well built brand. I looked at a few when I was looking for a coach to buy. Most were beat up from not being taken care of properly. But I would have bought one if I had seen the right one.
  • We have a 2003 Alpine 38FDDS. Previously owned Foretravel and Safari DP's.

    Yes, they are the sports car of motorhomes. The Peak chassis is unique to Alpine, though of course the major components are pretty standard.

    Long wheelbase to overall length ratio.

    4 ride height valves, not 3.

    Good front/rear weight distribution

    Side radiator.

    Engine on the 2000 will be the Cummins C. Then the ISL was an option and later, standard. Obviously the ISL 400 HP with engine compression brake was a sought after option. No more fuel consumption at the same speeds, but HP on tap if you need it.

    As with any coach that age, some could be pristine, others well worn.
  • Octanefam wrote:
    Looking at a 2000 Alpine 38fdds. Anyone have any good or bad comments as to the quality or problems that are known with Alpine.

    Thanks


    Alpine had a great reputation for quality - and QC - the frame was dipped and Painted and they used high quality materials. IMHO they spent a long time in design and "they" thought they were "THE" design.

    Looked long and hard at them but they would make NO changes when we were talking with them in 2002. They called the ride a "Sports Car", but in my two long test drives they seemed to be similar to a spartan chassis in the way they drive.

    Without doing a long search I think they had a few issues that were in many on the coaches and if you talk with owners and are good with the DIY fixes you will likely enjoy the coach.

    BOL,