Sold my class A gasoline Motorhome a couple years ago because we weren't using it enough to justify ownership, storage, etc. Now we are thinking about getting another. Think we would like a diesel but still concerned about how much use it would get. Understand diesels are more expensive to maintain, etc. So here is the question: how many miles per month should it be driven rather than run at the storage unit? Any other advice, pro or con is appreciated.

It should be driven, extended operation at idle is not recommended. Much better to occasionally get on the road for 20 miles or more to warm everything up and clear carbon and circulate the fuel.Prior RV was 36' Dp with Cummins ISB. Annual maintenance was about $200 DIY oil and filters change, lube chassis. Every 2-3 years, Engine Air filter, and Air Brake filter added about $100 each.. Having service done by a shop reported to be about $1100+...22.5 inch tires are in the $500-600 range each.But: The Rear engine diesel is quieter, more stable and comfortable to drive. My ISB consistently got 11+ mpg.

When you consider how often you change oil in a gas engine verses the diesel, I see no difference. belts hoses and other stuff is also pretty much a draw too. Longevity of the engine life? who ever wears out either one?The Diesel pusher is usually a over the road truck derivative of either Cat or Cummins, either is bullet proof.

After reading Lurker 1 post on 9/3 it really makes me rethink this idea. The motorhome is just an easier way of travel for me and the wife as we approach 70 years of age. Buying new is not going to happen and used is always a risk. Gasoline may still be the best way to go for the money. Thanks for the early replies.

The running it every now and then applies to both gas and diesel. You should drive it far and long enough to get everything up to operating temperature and then some. As above, a nice 20 mile run should work for either, and while you're at it, run the generator for the same reason you are driving the mh. Of course none of this helps you with how often you use the thing. We purposely park ours in our driveway as a reminder to us that the mh is in the wrong place! It needs to be on the road or at some campsite. This was true when we had a fully paid for unit, more important now that we are making payments.

This is the only motorhome I have had. A 20+year old diesel pusher with the 5.9 Cummins, 6 speed Allison trans. It still runs as good as new, maintenance has been minimal. I personally would stick with a diesel on any future moho.

Diesel ? | Good Sam Community

Wilbur
Explorer
Sep 11, 2016
After reading Lurker 1 post on 9/3 it really makes me rethink this idea. The motorhome is just an easier way of travel for me and the wife as we approach 70 years of age. Buying new is not going to happen and used is always a risk. Gasoline may still be the best way to go for the money. Thanks for the early replies.
Tom_Barb
Explorer
Sep 11, 2016
When you consider how often you change oil in a gas engine verses the diesel, I see no difference. belts hoses and other stuff is also pretty much a draw too. Longevity of the engine life? who ever wears out either one?

The Diesel pusher is usually a over the road truck derivative of either Cat or Cummins, either is bullet proof.
hooligan
Explorer
Sep 11, 2016
It should be driven, extended operation at idle is not recommended. Much better to occasionally get on the road for 20 miles or more to warm everything up and clear carbon and circulate the fuel.

Prior RV was 36' Dp with Cummins ISB. Annual maintenance was about $200 DIY oil and filters change, lube chassis. Every 2-3 years, Engine Air filter, and Air Brake filter added about $100 each..
Having service done by a shop reported to be about $1100+...
22.5 inch tires are in the $500-600 range each.

But: The Rear engine diesel is quieter, more stable and comfortable to drive. My ISB consistently got 11+ mpg.

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