Forum Discussion

midasman's avatar
midasman
Explorer
Nov 03, 2015

To BUY or Not to Buy (Which one?)

I am looking to upgrade my 2006 Holiday Ambassador 4 slide 40' coach. Simple ride-no Aquahot, no tag axle. VERY reliable. I would like to have tag (extra set of brakes and maybe a bit more stability), and perhaps an Independent front suspension. Here are some coaches I am looking at-two are newer, and one is not:
1. 2010 Dutch Star 42'
2. 2011 Entegra Aspire 42'
3. 2006 Fortravel Phenix 42'

Floor plans all work. The first two are 4 or 5 years newer and would be around $160 K.
The third one is a much higher level coach, but approaching it's 10th year, and would need batteries AND TIRES. It would probably come in at $190-$220K. The DS has IFS. Not sure about #3.
One of my MAJOR concerns is maintenance and age. Would the Foretravel be a bigger problem than the other two maintenance-wise? The same? Less?

Guys, I need some serious guidance here. Or should I say HELP!!! Thank-you in advance.
Pete
Class A
  • Thunder_Mountai's avatar
    Thunder_Mountai
    Explorer II
    Nov 04, 2015
    Good points from all. My two cents... Fortravel units are for the most part bullet proof. However, a 2006 is probably loaded with old technology. Not that is bad in itself, but unless the previous owner has made upgrades it may have tube TVs, SD satellite dish, etc. You may not have room for Blu-Ray player and HD receiver.
  • Bruce_Brown's avatar
    Bruce_Brown
    Moderator
    Nov 04, 2015
    3 excellent choices.

    The Foretravel, well...that speaks for itself.

    On the other 2, I'd go with the Dutch Star, if for no other reason than Comfort Drive. It truly is a game changer that is the best kept secret in the RV industry.
  • Blaster_Man's avatar
    Blaster_Man
    Explorer
    Nov 03, 2015
    I'd go with the DS. Although not at the level of Fortravel, a good quality coach, four years newer, $60k cheaper.
  • Ivylog's avatar
    Ivylog
    Explorer III
    Nov 03, 2015
    A good handling DP does not need IFS to help it's handling. I'm not a fan of IFS because of the three times as many moving parts. When the OTR trucks go to IFS I might change my mind but until then I'll stick with a solid axle.

    I understand wanting a tag axle and aqua hot but is it worth $60,000 or more to get them and four years newer? I have never read a negative comment on here about Fortravel but it's going to cost you over $100,000 and zero increase in years to get a much higher quality coach. How many years do you think you will use a motorhome. Only you can decide if it's worth spending this kind of money over what you already have.

    I would probably traded on a 04-06 Monaco Dynasty and $20,000. Yes I am partial to the Dynasty because of the 11 years of good service I've gotten out of mine. I plan on getting 11+ more years out of my Dynasty.
  • midasman's avatar
    midasman
    Explorer
    Nov 03, 2015
    Good point, barmcd. I'm in an under $100k coach right now without emission equipment and very reliable...
  • barmcd's avatar
    barmcd
    Explorer
    Nov 03, 2015
    Not to hijack your thread, but is it worth it to move up 4 years for the first two? It sounds like a substantial investment to achieve your goals.

    I understand the third choice is a different class entirely.
  • steveownby's avatar
    steveownby
    Explorer
    Nov 03, 2015
    donn0128 wrote:
    If you have the money, the Forteavel would be my top pick. They have an outstanding reputation for extremely high standards.


    I agree with Don completely. Foretravel coaches are very well built on a proprietary chassis. I'm currently parked next to a 2002 40' Foretravel. It looks brand new. 2nd choice would be the Newmar.
  • donn0128's avatar
    donn0128
    Explorer II
    Nov 03, 2015
    If you have the money, the Forteavel would be my top pick. They have an outstanding reputation for extremely high standards.

About Motorhome Group

38,707 PostsLatest Activity: Feb 17, 2025