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Erniel29's avatar
Erniel29
Explorer
Apr 05, 2013

What are the better brands

Sorry for the vague questions but I am brand new to RV ing. I've been into motor and sailing yachts for over 30 years so I understand the difference between a Sea Ray and a Hinkley, but i have no such reference for Motor coaches.

I've read the helpful posts for 1st time buyers and the FAQ, but would just like to be able to eliminate the dogs, and and have a short list of the good brands to concentrate on.

I have a good back ground on diesel engines, generators, inverters, AC and DC systems, black/grey/fresh waters systems etc. From what I've read I have concluded the following criteria which outlines my mission profile.

35 to 40 ft diesel pusher, just me and my wife.
I'll be mostly a parker
I want a private bathroom not open
I need to tow a 6500 lb horse trailer some times
I want a quality fit and finish, no particle board, or cheap panelling
No earlier than 2010
No more than 30000 miles
Good driveability
Good resale

I dont intend to drive across the country any time soon, this will be mostly for weekend jaunts, when my wife goes horse back riding and i need an air conditioned retreat to drink beer. I live in Florida, and will pretty much stay in the state. My budget is around $150k.

I look forward to some suggested brands/models that i should be looking at.

Thanks

Ernie
Class A

69 Replies

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  • Erniel29's avatar
    Erniel29
    Explorer
    Apr 05, 2013
    Newmar Tiffin Winnebago and Fleetwood is what I've gathered here.

    Thanks

    Ernie
  • the_bear_II's avatar
    the_bear_II
    Explorer
    Apr 05, 2013
    Keep in mind the diesel motorhomes use many of the same components and drivetrain of trucks designed for fleet service. So even if you have to go to an older than 2010 unit to find a really good MH in your price range you'll get a long life out of it.

    Your best bet is to spend time in the MHs for sale in your area and look for the quality and floorplan you like, have a list of at least 3 you liked. Do some internet research to see what the owners have said about the quality of units from the manufacturer(s). Then due a nationwide search to find a good deal on the MH you like.

    Like boats you can have an RV inspected by a professional before you buy it and transported to you even if it's across the country.
  • Erniel29's avatar
    Erniel29
    Explorer
    Apr 05, 2013
    6500 lbs is total gross weight including 2 horses and trailer.
    I already have a 2 horse bumper pull, and will only tow it "Sometimes" Horse trailers with living quarters require a large gooseneck capable pickup truck, been there done that. I want a class A.

    I undertand about Chevy vs Ford comparisons, but since a Rexhall sounds like a drug store to me, dont know what to run away from.
  • okgc's avatar
    okgc
    Explorer
    Apr 05, 2013
    Voice of experience here as I have escaped to the MH at a bunch of Horse shows, if the women didn't have me signed up for fence rail duty etc.

    In your price range I suggest you shop for a Newmar, Tiffin or Winnabago. Pick a floor plan that you like as Virtually any late model DP 35-40 foot DP will handle your trailer. Towing a horse trailer in the flatlands of Florida is a cakewalk.
    Make sure the actual hitch is rated at 10,000 lbs or more. Our dealer even included the trailer brake control unit and installation.
  • wny_pat1's avatar
    wny_pat1
    Explorer
    Apr 05, 2013
    "a 6500 lb horse trailer"... and two horses? Your going to need a 10,000 to 15,000 lb hitch!

    Foretravel
    Country Coach
    Newell
    Entegra
    Prevost conversion
  • UsualSuspect's avatar
    UsualSuspect
    Explorer
    Apr 05, 2013
    You will probably find most folks will tell you what they drive is the best. Find the one you like, then ask what are their thoughts. I will tell you Fleetwood of course, no major issues, but if I had a Rexhall, then Rexhall would be the best.
  • Red_'s avatar
    Red_
    Explorer
    Apr 05, 2013
    I would look at a good GMC Top Kick . . .

    Buy yourself a horse trailer ?

    With living quarters !

    Red, *<(:{)-

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