08-03-2023, 08:13 PM
Newell doesn't make changes at model years. They make changes continually. Additionally, since most coaches are custom built for a specific customer, no two coaches are exactly the same. However, in general, 2000 was primarily 2 slide coaches with some 3 slide units in the second half of production. 2001 had more 3 slide than 2 slide coaches with a couple of 4 slides at the end of the model year. 2002 was a mixture of 2, 3, and 4 slide units. 2003 was primarily 3 and 4 slide with some 2 slide units.
During 2003, Newell switched from HWH hydraulic slides to Valid electric slides, which they still use today. I believe all coaches after #649 have Valid slides.
Most of the 2000-2004 have the Detroit Series 60 engine and an Allison 6 speed transmission. Most will be mid-entry although a front entry (#606) was built as early as 2001, it was 2006 before front entry became common. #670, a 2003, Newell changed from DuPont Imron paint to Sikkens (VOC's).
2004 saw the introduction of the ZF suspension with the steerable tag axle (#671, 685, and 697 on). This suspension is still in use today although with additional features and enhancements. Your desire for a bath and a half will be more limiting the older the coach. Most of the 2000 year models had a center bath (at least 6 had the rear bath with a mid 1/2 bath). Just under 1/2 of the 2001's had the bath and a half. Over 1/2 of the 2002's and 2003's had the bath and a half. 2004 still had a large number of single bath coaches and some center island bed coaches which had a split bath with a vanity and shower in the rear and a vanity and toilet mid coach.
Hope that helps.
During 2003, Newell switched from HWH hydraulic slides to Valid electric slides, which they still use today. I believe all coaches after #649 have Valid slides.
Most of the 2000-2004 have the Detroit Series 60 engine and an Allison 6 speed transmission. Most will be mid-entry although a front entry (#606) was built as early as 2001, it was 2006 before front entry became common. #670, a 2003, Newell changed from DuPont Imron paint to Sikkens (VOC's).
2004 saw the introduction of the ZF suspension with the steerable tag axle (#671, 685, and 697 on). This suspension is still in use today although with additional features and enhancements. Your desire for a bath and a half will be more limiting the older the coach. Most of the 2000 year models had a center bath (at least 6 had the rear bath with a mid 1/2 bath). Just under 1/2 of the 2001's had the bath and a half. Over 1/2 of the 2002's and 2003's had the bath and a half. 2004 still had a large number of single bath coaches and some center island bed coaches which had a split bath with a vanity and shower in the rear and a vanity and toilet mid coach.
Hope that helps.