Where do I start

[kaydeejay]

Have been a long time poster over in the Fifth-wheel Forum, but it looks likely that I will be moving up to a DP at some point in the not too distant future.
Looking for a nice riding, quiet rig.
Any makes/chassis/engines/years I should avoid?

Have been looking at Allegro Buses, Holiday Ramblers, Monaco, Newmar, up to around $100K. That puts me in the 2004 to 2008 range.
Early days yet, but comments and suggestions please.
Thanks

[supercub]

Fleetwood Revolution..............great motorhomes, why, because I own one LOL.

[mpierce]

If you want a slightly older, but better built MH, go back a couple more years, and add Bluebird and Prevost to your list. You can get a MUCH better built MH for the money, albeit a couple years older.

[ncrowley]

We were in pretty much your position 4 years ago and we purchased a used Newmar on a Freightliner chassis. I have gotten good support from both Newmar and Freightliner. We were looking at Newmar, Country Coach and Tiffin primarily.

[2gypsies1]

Here's one you might be interest in on the Escapees Forum:

http://www.rvnetwork.com/index.php?showtopic=123514

[fcooper]

Regarding chassis: I've been very pleased with the Freightliner chassis. Freightliner provides a free help desk 24/7 that is very helpful when you're trying to solve a problem.

I've never owned a spartan or roadmaster chassis.

Be aware of the trailing arm problem that affected some chassis made by Monaco. There is some info about that problem in the link below:

trailing arm info

Probably most of the rv's with this problem have been repaired, but worth checking.

Try to drive several different motorhomes, paying attention to handling when encountering crosswinds or buffeting from a passing 18 wheeler. You will find major differences.

Good luck with your search.

Fred

[kaydeejay]

Just FYI to all - sold the truck and fiver today via Craigslist.
So the hunt for a DP now starts in earnest!!

[kaydeejay]

Thanks all for your input.
Keep 'em coming - I am taking it all in :B

Can someone expound on the differences between Spartan, Roadmaster and Freightliner chassis? Pluses and minuses; stuff to look for.

Thanks all.

[sailor_lou]

In the time frame/budget you are considering I would add Country Coach, Foretravel and Travel Supreme to the list. There you will find excellent quality, which is very important when buying used. Good luck.

Lou
05 Travel Supreme Envoy

[Ivylog]

I
Easy to forget all the little things my Dynasty has: keyless entry/lock unlock all bay doors, air seal on entry door, heated mirrors, elect water and electric reels, auto air leveling, Aladdin monitoring system..... Wish I'd gone residential when my NoCold first went out.

If I had to replace it would be with another one for less than $100K.

[prstlk]

Have been FT for 2 years 07 Hr ambassador other than the nevercold just a few minor problems. I think you will find many choices in the brands you named in the price range you are looking at.
Miles don't mean near as much as care. A well maintained coach with more miles may be a better than a low milage rig with no service. Understand tire codes as if they are not new you should replace in these year ranges. Unless your comfortable an inspection is a good idea.
Also transmission and oil analysis from places like Blackstone can tell you whats going on the inside of the most expensive parts.
Good luck and keep posting or pm if I can help.
Jw

[sch911]

All of those brands are very solid. Good Luck!

[Tinstar]

I think you are looking at the right makes. Just don't get in a hurry is my only advice. I looked for almost 3 years before I found what I wanted at the price I wanted.