Diesel ?

[Wilbur]

Sold my class A gasoline Motorhome a couple years ago because we weren't using it enough to justify ownership, storage, etc. Now we are thinking about getting another. Think we would like a diesel but still concerned about how much use it would get. Understand diesels are more expensive to maintain, etc. So here is the question: how many miles per month should it be driven rather than run at the storage unit? Any other advice, pro or con is appreciated.

[We_Cant_Wait]

IMO a gas engine is more prone to maintenance issues from long periods of non operation then a diesel engine.

[slickest1]

Try one out and you will see for your self what the difference is in comfort and drive ability. Yes they may be a little more to maintain for cost of oil and filters and tires and such, but to me that outweighs all the add ons to gas coaches to make them ride and handle better.

[Two_Jayhawks]

Diesels don't have to be driven every month. If that was the criteria I shouldn't have one and I have enjoyed three of them over the last 20 years. We sometimes have hard winters here in the Midwest so mine may sit two or three months without moving.

[usersmanual]

Wilbur wrote:
Sold my class A gasoline Motorhome a couple years ago because we weren't using it enough to justify ownership, storage, etc. Now we are thinking about getting another. Think we would like a diesel but still concerned about how much use it would get. Understand diesels are more expensive to maintain, etc. So here is the question: how many miles per month should it be driven rather than run at the storage unit? Any other advice, pro or con is appreciated.

so many varibles for each person. size makes the big choice
if 36ft+ with multi slide go newer diesel with ISC or ISL or C7 or C9
if under 34ft gas may very well be ok depends on what loads you carry and what areas u plan to drive. If power is not your worry then gas will work.30mph on mountain passes bothers me but not everyone
when u compare equal years and such gassers are much cheaper to purchase.If moneys not the object go diesel pusher even though it will sit. Sitting for 4-5 months at a time is no big deal.

[Ava]

This is the only motorhome I have had. A 20+year old diesel pusher with the 5.9 Cummins, 6 speed Allison trans. It still runs as good as new, maintenance has been minimal. I personally would stick with a diesel on any future moho.

[wildtoad]

The running it every now and then applies to both gas and diesel. You should drive it far and long enough to get everything up to operating temperature and then some. As above, a nice 20 mile run should work for either, and while you're at it, run the generator for the same reason you are driving the mh. Of course none of this helps you with how often you use the thing. We purposely park ours in our driveway as a reminder to us that the mh is in the wrong place! It needs to be on the road or at some campsite. This was true when we had a fully paid for unit, more important now that we are making payments.

[Wilbur]

After reading Lurker 1 post on 9/3 it really makes me rethink this idea. The motorhome is just an easier way of travel for me and the wife as we approach 70 years of age. Buying new is not going to happen and used is always a risk. Gasoline may still be the best way to go for the money. Thanks for the early replies.

[Tom_Barb]

When you consider how often you change oil in a gas engine verses the diesel, I see no difference. belts hoses and other stuff is also pretty much a draw too. Longevity of the engine life? who ever wears out either one?

The Diesel pusher is usually a over the road truck derivative of either Cat or Cummins, either is bullet proof.

[hooligan]

It should be driven, extended operation at idle is not recommended. Much better to occasionally get on the road for 20 miles or more to warm everything up and clear carbon and circulate the fuel.

Prior RV was 36' Dp with Cummins ISB. Annual maintenance was about $200 DIY oil and filters change, lube chassis. Every 2-3 years, Engine Air filter, and Air Brake filter added about $100 each..
Having service done by a shop reported to be about $1100+...
22.5 inch tires are in the $500-600 range each.

But: The Rear engine diesel is quieter, more stable and comfortable to drive. My ISB consistently got 11+ mpg.