Wheel base and tag axles
We are researching upgrading to a DP. From my readings on wheelbase, the longer the wheelbase the more stable the coach will tend to be. How much stability does having a tag axle add to the coach? L...
Forum Discussion
We went from a 2005 Monaco Diplomat 36' DP to a 40' DP with a tag. Newmar is the only coach manufacturer currently offering a 40' with a tag. There were certain things I wanted in a new coach, side radiator, tag axle, IFS and a few other items. I also wanted to stay at or under 40'. The Newmar Dutch Star fit the bill. My new 40' coach has pretty much the same wheelbase as my 36' DP did.
I still get the longer chassis ride, but a better turning radius than my 36' DP because of a 60 degree wheel cut with the IFS. The tag axle makes the DP track straighter and handle better. It also adds more braking and carrying capacity.
The downside to a short DP with a tag is you lose storage. My Dutch Star has about the same storage space as my 36' Diplomat did. Since mine is a 2014, it has a DEF motor. There is no storage from the rear wheels back with the DEF tank and engine batteries on one side and the side radiator on the other. Consequently, I have a huge cargo carrying capacity (weight wise), but would probably have to carry gold bars to reach it.
I still get the longer chassis ride, but a better turning radius than my 36' DP because of a 60 degree wheel cut with the IFS. The tag axle makes the DP track straighter and handle better. It also adds more braking and carrying capacity.
The downside to a short DP with a tag is you lose storage. My Dutch Star has about the same storage space as my 36' Diplomat did. Since mine is a 2014, it has a DEF motor. There is no storage from the rear wheels back with the DEF tank and engine batteries on one side and the side radiator on the other. Consequently, I have a huge cargo carrying capacity (weight wise), but would probably have to carry gold bars to reach it.
