1995 Coachmen Catalina with a Chevy diesel engine

[gingerK]

Hi all,

I'm considering buying a 1995 Coachmen Catalina 22' with a Chevy diesel engine. Owner says engine and trans run well and exterior looks good. Haven't looked it over yet but I'd like to hear your opinions. I know nothing from diesels. It has 158K miles on it. Thanks.

[klutchdust]

Find a diesel repair shop in your area and pay a mechanic to go with you. Could be a gem or a boat anchor. The transmissions tend to fail more often behind these engines. Remember the entire

coach has that many miles on it. The entire drivetrain needs inspection, tires, brakes, especially tires. Learn DOT codes. Tread means nothing, tires age and grenade as you are happily tooling down

the road. I just replaced 6 michelins with 17,000 miles on them because of age and cracking. If you don't know about motorhomes find someone who does. Hope your choice is a good one.

[ScottG]

I hate to say it but 158K is indeed a lot of miles on that engine.
I know there are guys out there that probably have stories of going much farther but on the avg, that engine doesn't last all that long.

[carringb]

1) That motor is a total dog. Many compact cars today have more power.

2) 150,000 miles might be approaching the end of its life. Yes, it may last longer in a pickup, but in a high-profile rig this seems to be the upper limit. That's why so many buses and delivery trucks are off-loaded at that milage, vs other diesels which usually are kept to 300,000 miles.

3) If you know nothing about diesels, do your research before even considering one. Diesels can require more maintenance, and if you can't or won't wrench yourself, it can become much more expensive than maintaining gas motor, since shops charge higher rates and many common services require more labor time.