Forum Discussion
Passage0ftime
Mar 18, 2018Explorer
Lantley wrote:
The 8.1 is a great motor with a great transmission. The 8.1 is getting a little old but it is a very capable engine, but even in its hey day it was a gas hog.
If you can afford to fill it up the 8.1 will get the job done.
My advice is to not analyze the cost of owning an RV it is expansive.
If you enjoy the RV lifestyle the cost come with it.
What you have to avoid is what boaters refer to as one foot itis or playing the upgrade game.
You have been in the game 10 minutes and you have already upgraded! TO a vehicle that will lead to another upgrade.
Buy your last RV first do not inch towards your goal it only cost even more that way.
If you want to tow heavy I believe you need a diesel. Many will disagree but I suggest you tow your same trailer with your 8.1 and then tow it with a diesel. It will be a eye opening night vs. day experience.
Age of the vehicle is not as important as how it is equipped and its condition. You must also consider your camping style. Are you a local 200-300 radius camper or do you venture far and wide.Are your destinations limited by your vehicle?
My 2007 Duramax dually is capable of taking my rig far and wide. It has 275K on the odometer. I generally keep my vehicle until they are worn out.
I avoid upgrading just to have the latest gizmos as long as my vehicle is getting the job done.
Yes my vehicle is getting old but age is less a factor the condition.
The LBZ Duramax motor has a stellar reputation even though the newest models are 10 years old.
Take your time, settle in on a combo that work for you, do not shop price alone. RV'ing is NOT inexpensive. Fuel cost are high, with an 8.1 they are even higher.
However once you find what you like. KEEP it awhile and don't look back .
Lantley,
I whole heartedly agree with you, and I hope to get many more years out of the 3500. Already had the 1500 from pulling horses, so just added to the stable as I care about safety deeply and did not want to be white knuckle and 45mph on the grades. Mostly local, (45 min from Branson and Table Rock Lake) but looking at Savannah this year. My cars tend to the gizmo free. All the buttons and bells drain the wallet in repairs, let alone purchase. Upgrade from bumper pull to 5th wheel was that we saw many quality issues in first one, and knew we were going to stay at it. Like to see truck and trailer last at least another 10 years.
Thanks for the feedback!
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