Buying a used Class A motor home with diesel engine

[Gary Fowler]

I have been thinking of buying a used Class A motor home with a diesel pusher engine, something 1994-2000 year model to keep the price reasonable.
Any reason that a pusher engine is better than a front engine? I was thinking a pusher would do away with that 25+ foot drive shaft which must be better.

I am looking for tips from owners/previous owners on things to look for that may not be obvious. I know to check tires and not just tread but how old they are, batteries, HVAC unit, generator condition and of course the visual stuff like carpet/flooring etc.

But is there any thing that may be hidden and not readily known to a novice that may be a hefty expense to repair. I once owned a small 5th wheel camper but that is all the experience I have with RV's.

How about the roof. I know some come with a rubber roof while others may have a one piece fiberglass. Any advice on what type is best?

 

[2458n]

I would think the engine would be my prime concern. There is a large dealership in Piqua ,Ohio and I know they kept several shops busy with replacement Jasper engines. Some warranty work most not covered. You could buy carpet for your motor home,house,and garage for the engine work labor cost.

 

[ericb2400]

Pushers are quieter driving down the road.
More basement storage.
Less rear overhang so less away caused by wind.
No long driveshaft.
Usually higher cargo capacity

May be harder to service.
Long wheelbase harder to get around in tight places.

Sent from my iPhone using TractorByNet

 

[ericb2400]

Check all appliances. Some refrigerators are prone to fire. Don't remember which ones. Sorry

Generator run all ACs? All AC run on shore Power?

Just a few things that come to mind.
Good luck and enjoy your looking.

Sent from my iPhone using TractorByNet

 

[truckdiagnostics]

Key difference between RV and travel trailer. When your truck breaks down, you can still stay in your camper at the camp site. When the RV breaks down your looking for a hotel room!

 

[Sprinklerman]

first , check your state laws whether you need a different license over 26K lbs . Maryland requires a non commercial CDL .
There are hundreds if not thousands af diesel pushers for sale . And just about everyone is upside down on them , they owe more than they are worth . Always offer low and hold firm you will save big $$$$ . Go to woodalls.com and look at the section on diesel pushers ,its a forum like this . You will need to tow a vehicle behind you ,Why ? Once you get to the destination you dont want to break camp to run to the store.

 

[jeff9366]

Banks will not finance motor coaches over ten years old.

 

[rrrkkk]

One that old (mine is 1994) you need to be pretty mechanical minded or have a large $$$$ roll. Mine is a 5.9 Cummings 230HP in a 36" Holiday Rambler. Tires, Air Cond, Appliances are the biggest expense. I do not have any slides and if I keep it at 65 I get 10 to 11 MPG. 75 MPH lowers the MPG to 6 or 7.
Propane generators are no problem and are less costly than diesel. I would suggest 22" tires and air brakes. Try PPL motorhome on line they are in Texas and always have quite an inventory.

 

[bucktaker]

whats youe intended usage? miles per year? Most Gas motor homes will be lower milage than the see the world diesel pushers.....For my Money I would get a large 5 th wheel instead of a class A inlaws owned a 35 ft Win Adventurer 2001 bought new one trip to Co several to Sc then nothing sold it last yr with 25k miles

 

[Gary Fowler]

One that old (mine is 1994) you need to be pretty mechanical minded or have a large $$$$ roll. Mine is a 5.9 Cummings 230HP in a 36" Holiday Rambler. Tires, Air Cond, Appliances are the biggest expense. I do not have any slides and if I keep it at 65 I get 10 to 11 MPG. 75 MPH lowers the MPG to 6 or 7.
Propane generators are no problem and are less costly than diesel. I would suggest 22" tires and air brakes. Try PPL motorhome on line they are in Texas and always have quite an inventory.

I see lots with the 230 HP Cummins engine. One I am looking at now has a 300 HP Cat engine. I think the extra HP would be nice, but may take a bit more fuel.
Any issues with your Cummings engine. How many miles. Most of the ones I have found are not that high mileage with the highest at 68K which should be a none issue for a diesel.