After spending 100’s of hours on the internet gathering info about RVs, I’ve decided that a Fleetwood Bounder of around 34′ would be best for me. Then the choice is engines and I’ve heard that the diesels are the most reliable, getting 200,000 to 300,000 miles before needing expensive repairs, whereas a gas model with, say, a Ford 460 engine will get you about 100,000 miles before you need to replace the engine. What I don’t know is how much maintenance is needed on a diesel.
I did find a consignment dealer out in the boondocks south of here with 2 models that I like.
The first choice is a ’94 Bounder (Fleetwood), 36′, with 190HP diesel with 96,000 miles. They are asking $31,500. Currently owned by a smoker, you can still faintly detect the odor of cigs. When it gets into damp weather, it’s gonna stink. There is a large burn in the molding near the bed and the interior uses a darker scheme. It does have the double paned windows I’m looking for. But I would have to tear out the booth type dinette in order to have a place for my shop and computer station. It also has solar panels, a generator, levelers, etc. The problems are the smell, the batteries need replacement, and the decals are peeling. No URL for this one.
The second choice is a ’93 Southwind (Fleetwood), 35′, with a Ford 460 engine with 35,000 miles. They are asking $30,000. This one is unusual in that it has a custom cargo door next to the standard entrance door. It would be great for lifting heavy computers or equipment right on the kitchen tile in what would become my shop area. It’s light, bright and cheery and would work great for my shop. Right now it just has a folding table and a folding chair. (See the rig at http://www.topohillrv.com/index-1042.htm). It also has a 7KW genset (larger then usual), leveling jacks, drivers door, etc. The major problem with this one is a large water stain around and near the skylight in the hall. I’d have to really check that out before purchase to be sure there is no wood rot. There probably is though.
I’m getting ready to make an offer to both these sellers. It’s a great time to buy because RVs are not selling well with the gas prices up around $2 per gallon. Maybe I’ll get a buy or at least a good counter offer.
Wish me luck!
Quote: One suggestion: can you dredge up the original thread from RANTS and make a summary page to say why you’re doing this, maybe link it from the front: Unquote
You’re right Keef, I should do that but I’m so damn busy right now what with filling the RV, getting the little things fixed, and moving out of my house with 25-30 years of stuff to get rid of…
This is SO COOL! I’m so glad I know someone actually doing THIS! One suggestion: can you dredge up the original thread from RANTS and make a summary page to say why you’re doing this, maybe link it from the front (Like, right flush from the title “Chaos Leaves Town (…here’s why)”
Brett told me this: diesels are intended for really hard work – basically, if you’re not going to work the hell out of an engine then get a gas one. (Context was he was talking about daily drivers. Driving a loaded motor home to Panama probably counts as hard work.) Diesels are more expensive to work on and fix.
That’s all I know. I’m sure you could call Brett up and request his opinion should you desire it; he *did* graduate from Nashville Diesel College you know! 😉