rear rad vs side rad

A lot may have to do with where your engine hatches are located and accessibility to them. On some rigs the engine hatch is below the bed and requires a partial removal of the bed components and then you are reaching down into the cavity, which would be difficult and probably more expensive if you have someone else do your maintenance. I have a rear rad with two bedroom slides and once the slides are out I simply release two latches and the top of the engine is about 3" below the floor. Two more latches in the closet and the floor lifts up for full access to the front of the engine and radiator. Everything is quite accessible and I can replace the serpentine belt from the top in less than 10 min. Also with the rear rad I have great access to both sides of the engine, which came in handy recently when I had to remove the turbo and alternator. I will agree the rear rad setup does get dirty/grimy easier, but a simple wash in the spring has been all that has been required to prevent overheating issues.

IMO the bottom line is if you like a specific coach I would not let the rad location be a deal breaker. Good luck.

Lou
05 Travel Supreme Envoy