Forum Discussion

livoniaben's avatar
livoniaben
Explorer
Sep 10, 2014

Ford v10 or gm 8.1 liter class A

I am shopping for a 10 year old gas class A motorhome in the 32 to 35
foot length.

Which is the better option, ford v10 or gm 8.1 ???
  • Both engines are about the same but some of the 8.1L engines come with the Allison transmission that many(except the Ford folks) feel are superior. Some also like the W chassis(after brake recall from years ago taken care of) compared to the 10 year old F53 chassis, but again, depends on if you are a Ford lover or not. Parts are readily available from many sources and finding a shop to work on the coach is about the same for either.
    Pick the floor plan that suits your needs and both chassis will get you there and back.
  • This coach is the only Ford I have owned in many years. since about 1996, I have owned mostly AMC, Jeep, and Dodge.
    So far, I am impressed with the V10 drive train.
    It towed the PT Cruiser on a dolly to Tennessee and back right after we got it, no troubles at all.
    I have towed the Dodge 1500 over the Continental Divide and back, again with no trouble.
    I had a 1988 Suncrest that had the GM drive train, 454 engine. I hated it. I thought it had more power than the previous Pace Arrow with the Dodge 440, but I was wrong. I found myself wishing I had the Dodge back.
    Sorry, but it isn't just Ford lovers who like the V10. I am very happy with mine!
    But, that doesn't mean I plan to replace my Dodge with a Ford!
  • wa8yxm's avatar
    wa8yxm
    Explorer III
    I like the First replay.> There are several technical differences but in that age class the Workhorse with the 8.1 comes with the Allison, EVEN FORD says the Allison is best (They later came out with a new tranny which they called "The answer to the Allison" so even Ford said Allison was better.. Makes me glad I haev one)

    The GM 8.1 had a batch of engines with a bad fuel clip. I would like to think it has been replaced by now bit make sure it has.

    Ford's of that era had a problem with blowing spark plugs right out of the cylinder,, Again, I would think that would have happened and been fixed by now if it was going to happen.

    Workhorse had an issue with the brake system... Likewise a recall was issued and it should have been fixed.

    In short both engines (And the chassis they mount on) have had issues, which resulted in either TSB's or recalls.. ALL of which should have been taken care of by now.

    HOWEVER: this may or may not be important.. the 8.1 is no longer made..

    This means that as time flys, replacement engines and parts may become .. well, more expensive.

    On the other hand, In my life GM engines have generally lasted longer. (Sadly my 8.1 IS the exception, it is currently awaiting funding for replacement).

    But.. Well, that is partially (At least) my fault.