2006 Newmar Essex? Hey, that's my coach!
I have owned this coach for over 3 years and 20,000 miles. I know a few things!
My coach has over 90,000 miles and is going strong. While all old coaches have issues, I think the Newmar Essex is a great coach and still has great support. I am glad I am a part of the Newmar family.
But, old coaches have issues. Mine is no exception.
The ISM 500 is hard on Turbos. Mine is on its 3rd one. If yours should fail, the only good option is a replacement by Cummins. My #2 turbo only lasted 7000 miles (less than 12 months). $4000 to replace.
The EGR system is a mess. You will have to deal with problems as they develop. My only issue in 20,000 miles is the EGR valve failed. $1800 to replace. Original owner had numerous issues.
There is speculation that the rear end (differential) is under speced for the weight. I am aware of several failures. I think the rear-end will run hundreds of thousands of miles... in Florida. But in the Rocky Mtn west, they wear out. Mine failed at 85,000 miles (near Florida, but this coach lived in the mountains). Cost $5K.
E-Plex. The central controller is obsolete and unsupported and will fail at any moment! The solution is to rework each system (inverter, tanks, water pump, AC and heater) and make them work with original equipment. You are basically making the ESSEX work like a mtn aire. I have done all this. Plenty of details over on IRV2. Cost, under 1000, except I also replaced the inverted with a much newer and better inverter.
If you buy a good coach and spend the money and effort to upgrade, the coach will work very well. I love mine and plan to keep it for 7 more years.
