the deal fell through, now I have a million questions

Just remember, Ford is an active chassis, while Workhorse is a has been chassis. Parts are readily available for the Ford, can they say the same for the Workhorse.

Yes, I agree, the Workhorse was a very good chassis, but to say it was the "best in the industry" is IMO, a personal statement of that dealer without any basis in fact. Also, there was a very serious brake recall on the Workhorse chassis, so make darn sure it has been done, because as a dead chassis there is no recourse if it has not been accomplished.

A lot of people love the Workhorse chassis with the Allison transmission. Because of gearing(4.77:1), my WH chassis can easily climb any Western mountain while towing and with the double overdrive on the Allison transmission, I can still get decent mileage on the flat land. The GM engine has parts available at any auto parts house and most mechanics can work on it. The Allison transmission has proven to be bulletproof.
The WH chassis coaches did have a brake recall that covered the W-20 series of chassis. This recall did not affect the P series or the heavier W-22-24 series chassis.
In any case, since that was several years ago, I am sure that any rigs that are now on the market have had all of the recall issues taken care of. It is no longer an issue.
My WH chassis now has over 80,000 trouble free miles and I still do not burn any oil. My Allison transmission has the Transyn fluid and still shifts like it is new.
Other than the usual oil changes and lubrication, the chassis requires very little maintenance. Plugs get changed at 100,000, coolant at 100,000 or five years. Mine has the wet lubricated front wheel bearings which require an occasional check to insure that the oil level is correct. This chassis has required the least amount of maintenance than any of our previous coaches.
That said, I still think that the floor plan is the most important. If you find a floor plan that is ideal, either the GM or the Ford engine will get the job done. They will both get you to the top of the mountain and down the other side, with a minimal amount of care.

The salesman will tell you whatever he is selling is the best on the market.
The Workhorse chassis was good (please notice the use of past tense) but the Ford chassis is good also and still producing chassis where Workhorse is not.

I know Workhorse had a large brake recall so you should verify it was done.
I would also be concerned of parts availability from a company that quit manufacturing some years ago.

Keep shopping. You'll find the right one.
Good luck and remember the shopping is half the fun!

It's the old Chevy vs. Ford argument and in that time frame both are fine. There are plenty of rigs out there so you'll find whatever you want, just keep looking. Now bring on the your other 999,999 questions. Good luck.

Lou
05 Travel Supreme Envoy