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1GiantNinerfan's avatar
1GiantNinerfan
Explorer
Oct 19, 2013

How many engine miles is too many?

Not interested in how well maintained or functional the interior is. I'd just like to know how long Class C engines generally should last. I read everywhere about how mileage shouldn't really matter if the REST of the coach is maintained. But that begs the question of how well or poorly the engine, drivetrain, etc. is functioning.

I am looking to purchase a used Class C for as cheap as possible...under 5k would be ideal but could go to 10K. I am looking at 1980s and 1990s. Incidentally, would one stay away completely from a late 70s RV in terms of engine reliability, etc.
I am planning a future two-month trip to national parks in the western US and need reliability but at a low cost if that exists. It then would not be used more than maybe a weekend every other month.

I would be traveling alone and carrying on it a kayak, two bicycles, for a few months of relaxing and de-angering. ;)

Appreciate any opinions. Thanks.
Class C

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  • ron_dittmer's avatar
    ron_dittmer
    Explorer III
    Oct 19, 2013
    I think it would be much more important to stay away from carbureted engines than high mileage fuel injected engines.

    Just as important, an old rig is often a leaky rig. Be very careful not to get a leaker. Telstars are old, built well not to have water problems, are fuel injected, and are found in your price range. In Google, search for "Telstar motor home".
  • hmknightnc's avatar
    hmknightnc
    Explorer
    Oct 19, 2013
    The advice you heard about interior condition is actually a good one. It is a great indication of how well the engine and transmission was taken care of. A well taken care of gas engine (that isn't over worked) will run at least 200k, and diesel engine of that vintage will more than double that. So if you are looking at a 90's coach with around 100k and interior is in great shape then the engine should be good to go too. Beware of ultra low milage coaches of that vintage. Low milage means sitting not used, very bad for the engine transmission.
  • carringb's avatar
    carringb
    Explorer
    Oct 19, 2013
    Bobbo wrote:
    Gas engine - 200,000 miles.
    Diesel - double that.


    Newer diesel - 250,000 miles
    Ford Triton motor - double that.

    No joking here. Yes, motors last longer under recreational use, but as a fleet manager our diesels wore out quick.

    Fwiw I have 364,000 on my V10, which puts out an extra 80 or so hp over stock, and has towed about 200,000 of those miles with an average combined weight over 20,000 pounds.
  • Mocoondo's avatar
    Mocoondo
    Explorer II
    Oct 19, 2013
    All depends on the maintenance it has received.

    For instance, Ford E350 and 450 chassis are barely broken in at 250K miles. I've seen hotel shuttle vans, rental car vans, etc. with the 350 and 450 chassis that were at 550K miles and still running like new.

    Privately owned RV's, regardless of mileage, tend to not get the best of maintenance in the grand scheme of things. As such, I would not expect nearly the longevity out of a privately owned coach as I would a vehicle with regular, quality fleet maintenance.
  • Bobbo's avatar
    Bobbo
    Explorer III
    Oct 19, 2013
    Gas engine - 200,000 miles.
    Diesel - double that.

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