Having a '96 motorhome myself, I can speak to some of your concerns. First off, lets dispel the myth about a CAT engine...any competent mechanic can work on your CAT including Cummin's mechanics.
Without a doubt, things wear out, I can go through what I've replaced in the 15-16 years I've owned ours: Air conditioners, Residential Refer, I redid the floors, replaced Water Heater, replaced alternator, just last year, I had the Trans ECU/TCU rebuilt, tires, batteries, belts, filters, fluids. No updates or major work on exterior or mechanically.
My air bags are still going strong as well as my Koni shocks(as far as I know, all original). I had my MH Heater, a Webasto serviced at Quartzsite by the Aqua Hot tech....same burner and parts as the newer units. I've been extremely Happy with the Vogue...they don't build them like these are built anymore!
