We currently have a 2003 Workhorse with the 8.1 and Allison trans. Like everyone else we had the brake recall done.
I give this drive train two thumbs up. It's a shame that it is no longer available to the motor home buyer.
We are considering buying a new motorhome but are putting it off for a while because this 8.1/Allison combo is just so good. It has over 76,000 miles on it and uses one quart of oil between changes. Not at all unreasonable.
The day will come when we have a Ford V-10.
I know I will really miss the 8.1/Allison.