Attention: TDR Forum Junkies 
I am planning and preparing for going full-time when I retire in the next four to eight years. My objective is to embark on this endeavor with an adequate rig with no debt; i.e., obtained and paid for prior to retirement. I understand that ongoing maintenance and repairs are part of the retirement budget.
My DW has expressed a preference for a motorhome and towed vehicle. My current thinking is to purchase a used motorhome, trying to find the optimal value mix of coach price and refurbishment cost. A new motorhome is out of the budget.
I have reviewed numerous threads identifying likely coaches, so I think I am informed regarding brand names.
My questions really deal with which aspects I should seek out. I have resolved the gas/diesel question and seek a diesel pusher. I seek something between 34 feet and 40 feet. I have gleaned the following from previous threads:
Engine: Obviously, I am partial to Cummins, but it appears from a review of ads that Cat and Cummins are highly prevalent and both appear to perform well over time. So, I'll look for Cummins. I see all kinds of short-hand references in ads: ISC, ISL, 325 HP, 350 HP, etc. I know that the 6.7L in my sig truck is an ISB (from reading threads). How do I find out what the other designations mean? Just Google? Better way?
Transmission: They all seem to be Allison. I assume more gears are better.
Chassis: It seems to me that Freightliner is to be preferred due to the ready availability of parts and repair network.
Brakes: I have read that hydraulic brakes are to be avoided in a motorhome; air brakes are far more desirable.
Suspension: I gather airbags are the way to go. Also, examine sway control carefully.
Roof: Some prefer fiberglass roof; I think rubber OK, especially if the new approaches such as RV Armor prove to be effective.
Model years: This is quite a conundrum for me. In one respect I think I should focus on models years from the early 1990s through 1998 in order to obtain an engine which is completely mechanical. The assumption here is that it is simpler to maintain and less to break. Engine and transmission control electronics become more prevalent with each new model year. I also wonder whether I should stop at model year 2005 or so in order to avoid most of the complicated emissions systems.
Power: Is there a good GCWR to HP rule of thumb (or GVWR to HP) which is useful for deciding whether a coach is adequately powered? I want to tow around a 5,000 lb GVWR vehicle.
Does anyone have other recommendations?
Thanks!
My DW has expressed a preference for a motorhome and towed vehicle. My current thinking is to purchase a used motorhome, trying to find the optimal value mix of coach price and refurbishment cost. A new motorhome is out of the budget.
I have reviewed numerous threads identifying likely coaches, so I think I am informed regarding brand names.
My questions really deal with which aspects I should seek out. I have resolved the gas/diesel question and seek a diesel pusher. I seek something between 34 feet and 40 feet. I have gleaned the following from previous threads:
Engine: Obviously, I am partial to Cummins, but it appears from a review of ads that Cat and Cummins are highly prevalent and both appear to perform well over time. So, I'll look for Cummins. I see all kinds of short-hand references in ads: ISC, ISL, 325 HP, 350 HP, etc. I know that the 6.7L in my sig truck is an ISB (from reading threads). How do I find out what the other designations mean? Just Google? Better way?
Transmission: They all seem to be Allison. I assume more gears are better.
Chassis: It seems to me that Freightliner is to be preferred due to the ready availability of parts and repair network.
Brakes: I have read that hydraulic brakes are to be avoided in a motorhome; air brakes are far more desirable.
Suspension: I gather airbags are the way to go. Also, examine sway control carefully.
Roof: Some prefer fiberglass roof; I think rubber OK, especially if the new approaches such as RV Armor prove to be effective.
Model years: This is quite a conundrum for me. In one respect I think I should focus on models years from the early 1990s through 1998 in order to obtain an engine which is completely mechanical. The assumption here is that it is simpler to maintain and less to break. Engine and transmission control electronics become more prevalent with each new model year. I also wonder whether I should stop at model year 2005 or so in order to avoid most of the complicated emissions systems.
Power: Is there a good GCWR to HP rule of thumb (or GVWR to HP) which is useful for deciding whether a coach is adequately powered? I want to tow around a 5,000 lb GVWR vehicle.
Does anyone have other recommendations?
Thanks!
