Newbie Questions that scare him
As a first time RV here, going full time, in a 2002 Newmar Dutch star 40 foot diesel, 50k miles, there are things that I just don't understand yet and SCARE THE HECK OUT OF ME. 1) Just how often do...
Forum Discussion
You are a brave soul jumping into RVing with a 40' diesel pusher, but hey, you bought a Newmar and they're one of the best. Only 50,000 miles on the chassis; you shouldn't worry about toasting a tranny or engine. Best thing you can do now is get it into a service facility and spend the bucks having a good diesel mech go over it thoroughly, and unless you have the previous maintenance records, start with an oil change, tranny fluid change, new fuel filters, radiator flush, new air filters, etc. I figure most diesel maintenance will cost three times what you should expect for a car.
Diesels don't break down often, but yes, everything does cost more when something goes bad. Definitely get a good road service plan that covers towing when you are miles from a repair facility. Read the fine print thoroughly. Don't know if you can get a service contract on that old of a rig, but check it out if you're still worried about breakdowns. Again, read the fine print to make sure the major systems are covered.
It can take a long time to do some repairs. Try to find a diesel shop that is used to working on RVs rather than trucks. You should find out now how to bring in a stuck slideout. Most if not all RVs have a manual method and special tool in the RV just to bring it in.
Bottom line is have all the possible maintenance performed now and set up a "breakdown fund" so you have the money available if you have a problem. Now, quit worrying and go ye forth and fulltime.
Diesels don't break down often, but yes, everything does cost more when something goes bad. Definitely get a good road service plan that covers towing when you are miles from a repair facility. Read the fine print thoroughly. Don't know if you can get a service contract on that old of a rig, but check it out if you're still worried about breakdowns. Again, read the fine print to make sure the major systems are covered.
It can take a long time to do some repairs. Try to find a diesel shop that is used to working on RVs rather than trucks. You should find out now how to bring in a stuck slideout. Most if not all RVs have a manual method and special tool in the RV just to bring it in.
Bottom line is have all the possible maintenance performed now and set up a "breakdown fund" so you have the money available if you have a problem. Now, quit worrying and go ye forth and fulltime.
