Moving from Class C to Class A

Question

We own a 2014 29' Winnebago Aspect and are considering purchasing a DP.  There is a 2010 42' Phaeton for sale in the area with 44k miles.  We have zero experience with DP or if jumping to a Phaeton is even a good idea. A friend swears by the DP. Can anyone advise considerations when moving from a small class C to a larger diesel class A? There are probably some obvious considerations, but being fairly new to RVing, we don't know what we don't know.  How do you get an independent assessment of what you are considering to ensure everything is working to spec?  A lot of cash to put down and don't want to make a poor decision.  Thx

gbopp · Answer

Hire a Mobile RV Tech to do an inspection BEFORE you give the seller any money or sign anything.
And, have the engine/chassis inspected by a diesel mechanic.
The inspection fees will be money well spent.

dale_traveling · Answer

Pre purchase inspections are a good start but consider getting two inspections. More or less split the coach at the floor between the house side and the chassis. A mobile RV tech is a good start for the house but a 42' DP chassis can get a bit complicated and you might be better off having your local Freightliner shop or other such specialists look at it. The inspections will cost a couple of hundred dollars combined but can be very beneficial for you as the prospective buyer.

jumpinjackflas1 · Answer

Thank you

jplante4 · Answer

We went from a 28 foot gasser to a 35 foot DP. Not much of a difference in handling, although I did hit a tree backing out of my driveway that I used to miss :)

If the 42's floorplan fits your mission then the extra length shouldn't matter except in the older RV parks with narrow roads and tight turns.

The biggest difference will be when it comes time for service. Some diesels take 32 quarts of oil and have several fuel and air filters to change. I usually figure on $700 for an oil change and chassis lube.

mile_high · Answer

At first the size may intimidate you driving, but once you are used to it, I think you will love it. Phaeton is a beautiful coach and the room inside with all of the slides deployed will be a big change for you.

The only thing negative I have ever heard on the Phaeton was some had the instant hot water system vs a standard tank. Some liked it, some hated it.

Forum Discussion

Moving from Class C to Class A

5 Replies

About Motorhome Group

Related Content

Considering move from class A to C

Class B RV’s

class A safety

Moving from 5th Wheel to Sprinter based Class C

Class C Recommendations