01-30-2016, 06:24 PM
I will take first crack at your questions and other can jump in:
1) Although most used coaches are negotiable, 25-30% is a larger discount on a used coach than I have typically seen.
2) Condition is the most important issue on a coach, whether it be 5 years old or 35 years old. Tires and batteries are two of the items that require replacement every 5 years or so. You should take those costs into consideration as a part of evaluating the purchase price but they will have no affect of the long term quality of the coach. Consider tires and batteries as routine maintenance just like oil and filter changes.
3) Detroit Series 60's are very common engines. Any truck shop should be able to work on a Series 60 to get you going again. The drivetrains on Newells, especially in the 2004 range, can be serviced all over the country.
4) You indicated that you have had fifth wheels for 20 years. How comfortable are you with working on your fifth wheels? I am certain you have had microwaves, air-conditioner, 12 volt and/or 120 volt issues during that time. While a Newell is more complex, particularly in the area of the on-board pneumatic systems, the basics are similar. Of course any motorhome adds the complexity of the engine, transmission, suspension and braking systems. Being mechanical inclined really helps in owning any RV but there is nothing that a credit card can't fix.
5) There is a world of difference in the build of the chassis of a Newell and most other motorhomes. It is truly comparing apples and oranges. With infant mortality of components, I would be more concerned about purchasing many new coaches and trying to work out their new production bugs than buying a well maintained used Newell.
1) Although most used coaches are negotiable, 25-30% is a larger discount on a used coach than I have typically seen.
2) Condition is the most important issue on a coach, whether it be 5 years old or 35 years old. Tires and batteries are two of the items that require replacement every 5 years or so. You should take those costs into consideration as a part of evaluating the purchase price but they will have no affect of the long term quality of the coach. Consider tires and batteries as routine maintenance just like oil and filter changes.
3) Detroit Series 60's are very common engines. Any truck shop should be able to work on a Series 60 to get you going again. The drivetrains on Newells, especially in the 2004 range, can be serviced all over the country.
4) You indicated that you have had fifth wheels for 20 years. How comfortable are you with working on your fifth wheels? I am certain you have had microwaves, air-conditioner, 12 volt and/or 120 volt issues during that time. While a Newell is more complex, particularly in the area of the on-board pneumatic systems, the basics are similar. Of course any motorhome adds the complexity of the engine, transmission, suspension and braking systems. Being mechanical inclined really helps in owning any RV but there is nothing that a credit card can't fix.
5) There is a world of difference in the build of the chassis of a Newell and most other motorhomes. It is truly comparing apples and oranges. With infant mortality of components, I would be more concerned about purchasing many new coaches and trying to work out their new production bugs than buying a well maintained used Newell.