First Timer - Gulf Stream Crescendo
We are jumping in with both feet. Currently in the process of purchasing a 2006 Gulf Stream Crescendo with a Cat 350 and only 20K miles on it. The generator has 1356 hours. Anything I should be on ...
Forum Discussion
Certainly sounds like a good find. One owner you can speak to and one who apparently took good care of the coach is a plus. I still might consider getting an independent inspection by someone who specializes in RV inspection. Also, see if you can work the dealer to either replace the tires or adjust the selling price accordingly. Also check the batteries and see if dealer will give you new ones.
Obviously verify that all systems work....heat, AC, fridge, water systems, water heater, audio visual, etc. In spite of all your diligence, plan on spending some bucks to get everything on the chassis up to par. Other than engine oil and filter, there are fuel filters, transmission fluid and filters, rear differential lube, air dryer that may need service, engine air cleaner, belts and hoses. Also at this point in the coach's life, you will likely need to drain, flush and refill the cooling system if that is the original coolant. Change the engine thermostat/s (CAT's usually have two thermostats) when you do the coolant change out. Consider changing to OAT long life coolant. Don't forget to make sure the generator has been serviced....oil, filter, fuel filter, air cleaner. At this point in its life, Onan calls for a complete service of the diesel generator which includes valve adjustment, new belt, new thermostat, new temp sensor, coolant flush/refill. On many coaches, the genset must come out of the coach for that level of service.
On that CAT 350 (C7) check to see if the fan hub has a grease fitting. If so, make sure it gets lubed. Also, if it is a rear radiator coach, plan on either cleaning the radiator and charge air cooler yourself or get it done. Rear radiator coaches tend to push a lot of dirt and grime off the road and engine thru the cooling pack. If you don't keep them clean, the coach can run hot when you are working the engine hard.
Obviously verify that all systems work....heat, AC, fridge, water systems, water heater, audio visual, etc. In spite of all your diligence, plan on spending some bucks to get everything on the chassis up to par. Other than engine oil and filter, there are fuel filters, transmission fluid and filters, rear differential lube, air dryer that may need service, engine air cleaner, belts and hoses. Also at this point in the coach's life, you will likely need to drain, flush and refill the cooling system if that is the original coolant. Change the engine thermostat/s (CAT's usually have two thermostats) when you do the coolant change out. Consider changing to OAT long life coolant. Don't forget to make sure the generator has been serviced....oil, filter, fuel filter, air cleaner. At this point in its life, Onan calls for a complete service of the diesel generator which includes valve adjustment, new belt, new thermostat, new temp sensor, coolant flush/refill. On many coaches, the genset must come out of the coach for that level of service.
On that CAT 350 (C7) check to see if the fan hub has a grease fitting. If so, make sure it gets lubed. Also, if it is a rear radiator coach, plan on either cleaning the radiator and charge air cooler yourself or get it done. Rear radiator coaches tend to push a lot of dirt and grime off the road and engine thru the cooling pack. If you don't keep them clean, the coach can run hot when you are working the engine hard.
