Forum Discussion

familyguy819's avatar
familyguy819
Explorer
Mar 20, 2021

Old Vs New Rig

Hello, I wanted to get some opinions on whether we keep the rig we have, give it some TLC or spend some money on something newer. What we have: 1999 32’ Fleetwood Bounder, 6.8L V10, F53 Chassis What we are looking to do: Pulling a 20’ enclosed with quads (5-6x a year),local camping and 2-3 long distance (3000) mile road trips per year. It’s the gen 1 V10 so its a bit on the underpowered side. So far no real issues engine or transmission wise that has ever left us stranded. My question to the forum is as follows: Is it worth it to keep our payed off rig, put a few dollars into it cosmetically(graphics and carpet) and mechanically, ( Banks kit,deep transmission pan with cooling fins, and a good round of preventative maintenance). Or spend the money on a newer rig with low miles and enjoy the reliability and added power. I understand this will ultimately come down to me, mainly wanted to get an idea of how reliable the F53/V10 will be for how much longer or should I save myself the headache and spend the cash. Thanks in advance for the replies:)
Class A
  • KD4UPL's avatar
    KD4UPL
    Explorer
    Mar 20, 2021
    How many quads? What's the weight of the trailer fully loaded? It's just a guess but I wouldn't think that MH is rated to tow much more than 5,000 pounds.
  • Lwiddis's avatar
    Lwiddis
    Explorer II
    Mar 20, 2021
    Towing at capacity isn’t fun. Does the 5000 also include gasoline, oil, tools, boots, riding clothing, parts, spare tires etc.?
  • pianotuna's avatar
    pianotuna
    Nomad III
    Mar 21, 2021
    Why change? The fit and finish today is light years worse than what you already have.
  • RLS7201's avatar
    RLS7201
    Explorer II
    Mar 23, 2021
    If you feel that you 99 coach is in good repair, then go for the face lift.

    Don't worry about the transmission heat. Ford did a good job of cooling, and heating when necessary, the transmission fluid.

    The Banks Power Pack is a good investment. You'll like the results.

    With you towing at the max, you may want to look at the rear frame extensions. Some of them are scary and could use some added metal and weld.

    My graphics were old and tired. I elected to replace the old graphics with paint. Taping before the paint was long and tiring.

    Richard
  • Blackdiamond's avatar
    Blackdiamond
    Explorer
    Mar 23, 2021
    I have basically the same set up, my 03' southwind V10 and a 20ft enclosed with a rhino and 3 dirt bikes.

    Would I like more power, yup, absolutely. Is it really needed, no it tows fine a couple places up steep grades it is going slow, but no slower than the semi-trucks, faster than some.

    To get more power you would need to go with a 06' or newer with a 5 speed trans or much newer 2016 for the 6 speed. To me its not worth it, these engines go 200,000-300,000 miles.

    Update what you have and keep that paid off coach.
  • PastorCharlie's avatar
    PastorCharlie
    Explorer
    Mar 24, 2021
    This topic, old vs. new, reminds me of the question; "Would you rather have an old five or a new one?"
  • Bionic_Man's avatar
    Bionic_Man
    Explorer
    Mar 24, 2021
    My folks had a early 00's National Sea Breeze. Somewhere around 34'. Bought new, put around 100k on it, trouble free miles. Sold it, got a DP, kept it a few years, life happens, sold it, ended up buying basically the exact same Sea Breeze that was owned by one of their friends. 2nd time around engine has been fine, but the tranny went out with around 50k.

    Folks tow a Wrangler Unlimited, the MH they bought was used to tow a Grand Cherokee.

    Power is what I would describe as anemic. They are 25 - 30 MPH going over the passes in Colorado. Wouldn't be enough for me, but dad seems to be ok with it. I guess it is all bout expectations.
  • 1320Fastback's avatar
    1320Fastback
    Explorer
    Mar 24, 2021
    Seeing your local where is you your camping and riding? We alternate between Glamis, Pole Line Road, North Marina Dive and Octillio.

    Also I vote for keeping what you have. It's paid off, in a known condition and one could argue older is simpler and more reliable.

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