Thanks for the Welcome socal77 and IAMICHABOD!!!
Yes, I actually heard about the program and I do intend to ask CA if they will honer some kind of discount. Doesn't hurt to try right? Who knows, maybe they'll throw in a latter or awning for free (wishful thinking).
I do wish they had the maintenance logs but being that I am DIY kinda guy I'm really not too worried about it. My biggest issue is the engine. Can it get me from Point A to point B even in the most extreme conditions? Reliability is a Big deal for me. I have heard nothing but great things about Ford's Triton V-10 on the e-450 chassis. I gotta say that when I rented I was impressed by the way the engine handled Colorado's mountains as well as Utah, Arizona and California. It even did very well in the extreme heat on I-15 as we drove through Nevada and we were pretty loaded (8-passengers= 3-adults, 3-teens and 2 toddlers). Tanks Full and a plentiful food storage in the back too.
I always carry a box of tools with me and am ready to fix anything on the fly. Even fixed the main entry door that wouldn't really close on one of Cruise America's rigs that I rented. Also fixed a fuse panel that would not stay closed.
So back to the Ford Triton V-10. I know of the spark plug issue. I guess the engine would have a tendency to spit out plugs (early models I believe, built before 2000) so I am not too worried about that as the unit I'm looking for will be a 2012 or 2013. I also saw some you-tube videos on the proper way to remove and replace plugs for the Triton V-10 (heard from a few that busted the plugs because they didn't have the right removal tool). I believe I can handle that. Earlier this year I thought about a 28A unit that CA had for sale in Manasses, Virginia. It only had 97,000 miles on it but I figured I'll just go for a unit that is just a little bit over the 100,000 mile range. This way I'll know for sure they did the required Timing Belt change at 100,000 mile interval. I've done timing belts on most of my vehicles but prefer it to be done already and I'll know it will be good for the next 100,000 miles.
Sorry I got carried away on the write up. I will post pictures soon.
