Another used C vs A post

[desiphil]

Hi folks,

My parents are hunting for a camper and don't want to spend much. $20-$30k. They want something drivable. I've been in the industry for a decade and can advise them on certain +/-'s regarding construction but would like to solicit opinions based on actual user experiences.

They are looking at 2002-2005 C's and 2000-2005 A's. Some we've looked at that they really like.

2003 Winnebago Brave/Adventurer - 34D
2000 Fleetwood Southwind 32
2005 Fleetwood Terras/Fiestas
2002-2004 Holiday Rambler Atlantis'

I've sold the Winnebagos and the HR's in the past and expressed to them my fondness of the Alumaframe construction with smooth aluminum siding on the Atlantis.

I've seen a few Terras/Fiestas with softish/flexing floors in kitchen.

Future maintenance costs and comfort/ease-of-setup are my primary concerns. Your thoughts?

Phil

[gotsmart]

Rental? Who would buy a rental? Click to zoom. :B This morning at Diamond Point Resort it was 28°F outside. Right now it is sunny and 37.8°F - an awesome day!

[Skid_Row_Joe]

I came from a high-line, very reliable Class A diesel to a high-line, near-new used Class C diesel Born Free.

My experience with the Born Free factory is that they will not stand behind their product. Not one bit, regardless what problems you have with it. After 3 years plagued with problems on the coach, I drove it to their factory thinking that everything would be fixed, and leave in good shape. Each and every item they worked on has either broken, failed, or re-malfunctioned. On top of that, they broke the electrical wiring connection to my unit's refrigerator while they were working on the coach. When I pointed out to them what they did, they said; "tough, we don't know anything about it, and we don't work on refrigerators." Even though I wrote numerous letters to the owner of the Born Free company and each department head, none of them ever even acknowledged receiving the letters. For the record, the Born Free roof and siding/windows leak rainwater in at least (6) places, with extensive damage to the woodwork, carpeting, and fabric ceiling in numerous places. The roof of the Born Free still leaks to this day.

I would buy a known brand like a Winnebago, and avoid any of the boutique brands such as Born Free, and any other low-volume coach maker. Regardless how well they tell you their quality is. I found out it's just not there on my unit.

[crasster]

Having a C, and A, and TT, I like the C the best. C's are easier to drive and are still nice and big.

In a few years though, I may hate the top bunk and crawling out of the truck into the coach.... But for now, it's a C.

[desiphil]

Yea, Lots of rentals here locally. Should have mentioned previously but a slide is a requirement and my dad would likely not buy anything with more than 60,000 miles. 28' or larger.

[IAMICHABOD]

If trying to stay in that budget range, I might also suggest looking at a Ex Rental.

That is what I did and found that it was in my Budget range and worked out really well.

In this Thread Click Here

There is one in Texas

Also if you look in that year range for a Class C that is built on a Chevrolet Chassis, you will not have the problems that plagued the Fords of that era.

Just some more food for thought.

[desiphil]

Good info. Thanks for the help guys.

- Phil

[pnichols]

Phil (the OP),

The Ford spark plug problem was solved by 2005. Also, starting in 2005 Ford changed to their TorqShift 5-speed (6 speeds internally) computer controlled transmission in their E350 and E450 chassis that are used under a lot of Class C motorhomes.

I'd recommend staying with 2005 model year on up if it's a Ford chassis you find under a used Class C within you budget.

Our 2005 Itasca and it's Ford chassis is has been excellent regarding build quality, standard features, and options. You might want to locate a 2005 Itasca in the length that meets your needs.

[carringb]

My suggestions:

Look for more gears. For Ford that means the TorqueShift Transmission, or Allison on a GM. The TorqueShift can be ID'd by an extra "3" in the shift selector, or the presence of a "Tow/Haul" button instead of an O/D.

A lot of people like Class A. I like the safety features of a Class C cab, and more impertinently, factory wiring up front. The wiring in most Class A's, which includes all dash wiring, is pretty atrocious.

Weigh it. A lot of RVs have little to no capacity on the rear axle. On that note - a longer wheelbase is better for a given layout. Keeps more weight up front which helps with drivability.

[mlts22]

That range, one ends up dealing with Ford two piece spark plug issues. Other than that, I don't really see any pitfalls in the drivetrain.

I'd say it depends on the individual unit. Leaks are common, so I'd check the unit (especially the cabover if it has one) with a fine tooth comb... if anything is found that looks/smells like water damage, walk.

I would personally lean towards the Winnebago or HR if all were equal, but that is mainly because of brand name.