Forum Discussion

Procrastinator's avatar
Sep 21, 2020

Chassis clarification

We are in the real early research stages of our first motorhome after 20 years of various trailers.

We really want a shorter motorhome and I have been studying Class B+ and Class C's for that reason.

I feel that I have read, or maybe misunderstood that some of the shorter class A's are built on Ford's E450 frames.

If that is correct, does anyone know how I can search for those models or manufacturers?

Thank you in advance.
  • Shorter rigs are problematic, as the manufacturers seem to view them as low-cost entry level motorhomes. You may be better served by a bigger used rig. After a couple of years,most of the depreciation has been taken, and the bugs mostly worked out. We have been the third owners of both our Class A rigs, and we have had pretty good luck with the integrity of the chassis and interior repairs the prior owners dealt with. JMHO.
  • Yeah most likely they'll be built on Ford/Chevy 350 450 3500 4500. Seen some Mercedes.
  • way2roll wrote:
    in recent years, I believe the Thor axis/vegas are the only Class A's built on the E450. All the rest of the gassers are on the F53.


    This topic has been discussed on the Thor Forum It may be of help to you.
  • in recent years, I believe the Thor axis/vegas are the only Class A's built on the E450. All the rest of the gassers are on the F53.
  • Class A's Ford are usually on the F-53 chassis. Class C's are on the E350 or E450.

    The shorter F53 Class A's are usually on a 18K LB's chassis. And then as you go up in length, and or quality, the chassis ratings go up to a high as 26K LB's.

    One tip besides rating, is to factor the chassis wheel base length, in relation to coach length. Many of the entry level Class A's are on shorter wheel base's - which result in quite bit of tail hangover. Tail hangover can impact drivability, and dragging onto the ground at places... The term Tail Wagging the Dawg comes to mind, in heavier winds, as as Semi's blow by on the Interstates...

    Best of luck on your search,
    Smitty
  • No help here but what length are you looking at.

    What brand name or features are you wanting. Those features along with length will determine on what frame you will get.