As RVers know, considerable thought goes into the purchase of a motorhome. In addition to size, floor plan, appliances, etc., the chassis and engine are a big part of the decision. Read what several FMCA members had to say in response to this question:
Gas or diesel: Which type of motorhome do you prefer, and why?
I currently have a 35-foot Type A gas motorhome, and if I could do it over, I would purchase a diesel. Why? First is the ability to purchase fuel easier; second is reduced engine noise. This is especially true when my Workhorse engine downshifts while climbing or descending a hill. Mountains are worse, and for longer periods. When we travel north and west, trip planning is extremely important. We tow, and with some steep inclines, I have had to take longer alternate routes, because the gas engine does not have enough torque to ascend a mountain.
A few years ago in the Dakotas and Wyoming, the switchbacks were very tiring, and several times I thought I would have to unhook the toad to get up an incline. The switchbacks usually require a reduced speed of about 15 to 20 mph, followed by an immediate incline, requiring me to drop the transmission to second or first gear. Now there is some engine noise.
A 350-horsepower diesel probably has twice the torque of my gas engine, which would give needed power for inclines, a definite noise reduction in the cab, and easier ability to purchase fuel. At newer fuel stations, getting in and out is almost impossible unless the toad is unhooked. With a diesel, I could fill up at any truck stop. The few cents a gallon more would be worth the peace of mind.
Jim Stoodley, F389890
Hollywood, Florida
A gasoline-powered type A motorhome was an easy choice for us, because it’s less expensive to buy and maintain. Fuel for it is universally available. Diesel pushers are too big to fit into many state and national park campsites, and their energy-hungry amenities make them unsuitable for long-term dry camping, which we often enjoy. Our 35-foot-long coach can be maneuvered and parked in most shopping center lots, making it unnecessary for us to always have a smaller vehicle in tow. We have all of the necessities for our comfort without the expensive luxuries.
Lewis & Nancy Edge, F426797
Princeton, New Jersey
I own a 2008 Winnebago View on a Dodge Sprinter chassis with a Mercedes-Benz diesel engine. It runs great and gets better each year. I get between 15 to 19 mpg. It still has great “get up and go,” and it doesn’t break a sweat cruising between 60 and 65 mph. I change the oil and filter around twice a year and regularly use diesel fuel additives to keep the internal workings clean and to help with overall engine performance. One issue I have is that a lot of gas stations (excluding truck stops) don’t easily identify where their diesel pump is. At times, they are hard to get to, and you find yourself maneuvering around cars. If and when I ever upgrade, I will look for another diesel, because I’m happy with the fuel economy and engine performance I have been getting.
Tony Trimarco, F408182
Greenwood Lake, New York
Future questions:
1. FMCA’s 93rd Family Reunion & Motorhome Showcase will take place March 17-20, 2016, in Perry, Georgia. What are your favorite restaurants or sight-seeing attractions in the “Peach State”?
2. What’s the ideal duration for a motorhome trip (weekend, week, season, etc.)? Please explain why.