We own a 2006 Damon Challenger with the Ford V10.
We tow a 2011 Fusion on a dolly, around 3600 Lbs. Towing max is 5000 Lbs. The only time we notice the car back there is on steep grades when the tranny will down shift a little sooner than it would without the car. We use the tow/haul mode when pulling the toad.
As far as the coach goes, no problems at all. Everything works as it should. Damon was known for including high end features at an entry level price. Damon is now owned by Thor so you can still get parts and service if required.
Our experiance has been positive (knock on wood)
Some things to check -
The roof top air conditioners are made by Carrier. Carrier stopped making RV units so if it fails you need to buy a conversion kit to install a Coleman. Make sure the roof top units blow cold air or be prepared for a $1000 fix.
The hinges for the overhead cabinets are like little shock absorbers that keep the cabinet door open. The attachement point is plastic and they tend to break. It is an easy fix but a pain in the butt when it happens.
Would I buy another Damon? If the price was right and it was a floorplan I liked I would not let the brand name stop me. With a ten year old rig I would be far more concerned with condition than brand!
If you are buying any 10 year old motorhome, regardless of the manufacturer, be careful. There is way more trash than treasure out there.
