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rollindownthero's avatar
rollindownthero
Explorer II
Sep 16, 2014

Class A - How often should it be driven?

When I retire I want to full time in an RV, just haven't figured out which type yet. How often should a Class A motorhome be driven? I am not planning on driving across the country. I am thinking about staying in Florida (where I currently live) and moving around every month to two months. Have been looking at gas models in the 35' range. I am by myself. When I do move locations it would be probably be in the 200 - 400 mile range.

Thanks for your input!

15 Replies

  • I generally try to "move" my motorhome once a month, but 2 months would probably be okay. The other thing in addition to the engine that you need to be concerned about is the wheel bearings. Over time, the grease or oil can migrate out from the point of contact on the roller bearings, allowing a depression to exist which will tend to cause premature failure of the bearings. Hence moving periodically will prevent this.

    Having said this, and in my previous life as an engineer, seen this in smaller bearings, and read this about heavy duty bearings, I do know of a number of people who have let their motorhomes sit all winter, and don't seem to experience any immediate problems.

    Ed Headington
  • Sounds like you are talking about only 1,000 to 1,500 miles per year and maybe 8-10 travel days and 25 to 30 hours on the road. I don't think a MH would be the best choice. Just my opinion.
  • I would go with the gas.use stabilizer.
    Change all filters at least yearly . Regardless of the miles!.
    We will put on between 15 - 18 K this year and we have been from Tx.
    to the west coast twice this year. So.Cal. And Or and Wa. We fulltime.
    Good luck have fun
  • If I was going to basically live in the same area and not move around much I would get a TT and have it set up. Long time in one park gets you cheaper rent plus you don't have to worry about running engine or generator etc. You could still move it if you wanted to travel.
  • Moving every one to two months should be fine, especially if you let it get up to temperature during your moves. There are a couple of items to consider.

    1. I'd be concerned about is the gasoline becoming stale and/or leaving deposits in your fuel system. This is especially true if you only move a short distance and don't run through a tank of gas. To be safe I'd add Sta-Bil to the fuel tank and run it for a few minutes when ever you stop.

    2. As for oil changes, you probably won't be putting on many miles, so you'll need to change the oil based on the date that your owner's manual recommends.