RV Smackdown - Diesel vs Gas
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- čas přidán 18. 07. 2014
- In our opinion one of the greatest debates when it comes to purchasing a new RV is deciding between a Diesel or Gas Motorhome? There are a lot of differences between a Diesel and Gas RV, so I've done my best to narrow it down to the few main differences including Price, Maintenance, Power, Chassis and Fuel Economy.
For comparison I've selected a Gas powered Fleetwood Bounder and a Diesel powered Fleetwood Excursion that are basically the same coach inside and out, so check out the first video in our new series dubbed the RV Smackdown - Diesel Vs Gas.
Read more details on these two RV's and some other Diesel Vs. Gas differences we couldn't cover in the video: www.gonewiththewynns.com/rv-di...
Music: "Let It In (No Vocals)" by Josh Woodward (www.joshwoodward.com/) - Auta a dopravní prostředky
Diesel for the full time RVer and piling on the miles. Gas for the working class man that uses 3-4k mikes a year. Just my opinion.
My family recently upgraded from a 2004 Bounder 35r to a Thor Palazzo 36.1. The diesel engine and freightliner chasis with air brakes and air suspension is far superior, it rides much smoother and is much more controlable, with much less sway and side to side wander. In our old bounder, just getting the coach up long, steep hills (greater than 10% grade), was a slow and dramatic process. With our new Palazzo, we tow an ~8,000lb trailer up steep hills with absolutly no issue. Also, with the diesel, going down the other side of the hill is much safer and less nerve racking due to the jake brake, If you have the extra money, go with diesel. The difference is much greater than most people will have you believe.
Not on highways...
I've been driving diesel powered big rigs down the highway for twenty-five years. You can't beat the power, torque, and reliability of a diesel. We have a new 23' travel trailer, and my old gasoline powered pick-up truck is about to get traded in for a newer diesel powered truck. There are just too many mountain passes we want to go over!
At 82 I don't need an engine that will last me 15 years. Plus I am living at a slower pace than I did when I was 60. I can't hear well so the noise keeps my wife from talking a lot. There are benefits to that. LOL
Geez, I'm so new to this, everything sounds like a new language. I recently bought my first and new RV, a 23U Chateau that, as a single woman, I'm learning how everything thing works so I won't have to depend on any guy or a shop, if possible. And your "how-to's" have been invaluable. So much so that after seeing your solar power video, I had 2 160W panels mounted on the roof to keep the battery juiced. Thank you for making this dramatic intro into a new world easily understood and, the best thing, fun.
Robin
Thanks MsRobin,
Love the idea of starting with a 23' RV to learn the ropes and go solo much easier. Hope to see you on the road one day.
MsRobinSurf stran infapandant wahman
Having read some of the responses posted earlier, I'd say some of you are providing "religious" reasons for preferring one or the other. No one has mentioned that the typical diesel chassis is heavier than the Ford chassis. Having said that, the house body placed on it tends to be of better quality. Also, price of gas and diesel is just price of gas and diesel. Total cost over the miles is important. A diesel will tend to get better mileage than a gas. Price, then, is nearly neutral. Yes, it costs more for maintenance with diesel than gas. But, what you get with that price is better, quieter, more powerful ride. Good seats in a theater cost more than the cheap seats. It's a personal preference. It isn't objective. It's subjective.
Nice comparison Jason. Buying an RV is tough and there are lots of choices to make. This video will surely help inform. I think many people focus on sticker price and not overall cost of ownership, maintenance, etc..
You guys do a very good job with these videos. As someone who has worked in film/video production I know how much work it is -- so thanks for all the hard work Nikki and Jason! Your videos are great. :)
One important factor that wasn't mentioned is that diesel fuel has at least twice the shelf life of gasoline. Since motor homes tend to sit around a lot that is a huge plus in favor of diesels.
I've driven truck for about the last 30 years, there is a reason why you'll find a diesel in almost every truck on the road. if you ever driven a diesel you know you can pour the coals right to em for 8 hrs. with no problems, you try to work a gas engine like that and it wont last long. remember the diesel is putting out say 300 hp @ only about 1800 rpm, the gas might have to turn 3000 to match it
The problem since 2012 is DEF system, you have to stay on top of it because it will be very expensive to repair, I know because I drive one for work
Here in the UK petrol (or gas as you call them in the USA) are ONLY found in cars. Vans, lorries (trucks), coaches (which are the same size as RV's) are all diesel powered. More efficient, more torque and most modern diesels are very quiet.
I personally think a gas engine is strange in anything other than a car.
THANK YOU for a concise, fun explanation good for us newbies with a fair comparison!
I talked to a local guy who drove his Gas powered, 30 ft RV from here in NY to Arizona. He said he thinks gas is better for him because of the up front cost savings and he only uses it once a year for a long trip and a few local trips. So I guess gas is good for a casual user and Diesel for more serious Rv er. I would choose diesel myself though
You guys do a great job, I've watched many of your videos. Keep up the good work.
Jason, thank you for the thoughtful analysis.
You only brushed briefly on a couple issues that truly are the reasons someone would choose one over the other. Future RV purchasers should look towards the hauling industry to understand the Pros and cons of both.
A) Mileage? If you plan to go travel with your RV you'll want Diesel over Gas. Diesel Engine and Transmission spin at Much slower speeds which directly relates to life span. If you don't think you'll put 60,000 miles on, then Gas should be fine. Plan to see all of north America? Get diesel, you won't be sitting on the Alaska highway with a piston out the side of your engine because you used up its life expectancy in a few short years.
B) Mountains? Not just the Rockies, Kentucky has some serious climbs too. A Gas Engine is going to be screaming with Sky High RPM's to get you over the top as it hyperventilates trying to get air. Your transmission will be heavily slipping causing high heat, and the fluid will start breaking down under the stress. Diesel Engines purpose massive amounts of low end Torque to pull you, your RV and all your toys over the top with out breaking a sweat. The transmission will be spinning at much slower speeds and has a super thick gear oil that doesn't plan on letting you down. The Turbo charger will make your engine perform like a Raging Bull as it forces astronomical amounts of thin air into the engine causing it to not skip a beat while performing like an athlete. And when you go down the other side, the Diesel engine is going to hold you back and keep things calm, it might even have an engine brake so you still have a lifeline to reserve when you come down the mountain and someone is doing 30 in the fast lane, you haven't used your foot brake yet so its egger to please.
C) Climate? Like cold mornings? I don't mean 32degs either. If you plan to enjoy Winter or think you'll trying to start the engine in the dead of winter to escape, think again. Diesel engines HATE winter, and a block heater doesn't always help. At -40F/C your fuel is going to be thick like molasses and the engine will never produce heat to offer you any relief in the cab. Gas on the other hand just needs the right fluids in the engine, a little additive in the fuel tank if your starting off from a warm climate. and a block heater.
D) Dollars? With Gas engines you can have a couple Harley's. With Diesel engine you'll wish you had bought a couple Harley's with the difference.
Ecoheliguy, it's not a fully comprehensive video, really its just our top reasons comparing these 2 RVs. We have loads more info on our site here: www.gonewiththewynns.com/rv-diesel-or-gas
Thanks for taking the time to share.
Dude, I love your tid bits!! My wife and I right now have a 36' Coachman Santara and are looking to trade it in for a newer used one in the future. As of right now, i'm Active Duty Air Force and we don't really travel that much so we will probably jus stick with a gas engine for now but when I retire in like 10 years then we will probably trade that gas in for a Diesel so we can travel on the road with our small family and see all the sight over the mountains. I appreciate all the details you put into your explanations. RV on my man:-)
love the vids keep them coming gives me a route on what i should choose and do in my future journey in life
Nice presentation: very informative. Thanks.
Actually we love all the hand/body/arm gestures, so keep it up! MUCH more interesting to watch than most of the videos available online produced by geezers that have been RV'ing their whole lives and drone on and on about how things should be done. VERY refreshing to see a normal (well kinda normal!) young couple taking a fresh approach to sharing solid tips and observations about the RV lifestyle. Keep it up!
Mike Drudge Thanks! We tried to make it fun, plus I was stiff as hell trying to remember all this detailed information...so the cheesy/funny gestures made it more fun for me and gave me a rhythm to puke out all the details.
Been a subscriber and follower of the Wynn's for a ways now and not only are they professional, they are informative to boot. I really value both of your opinions and when I choose to hit the retirement road, I'll be more educated. Not to mention the cool places and bars you guys went to...Rock on Wynn's
Thanks Heavy!
I agree. They are very entertaining to me. Must we always be serious? NO!
I have a gas coach with a Ford chassis. Most Ford dealerships won't service them you have to hunt for locations that can handle the size of a Motor Home. I do my own oil changes takes me 30 minutes and approximately $40.00. Diesel coaches can quickly be serviced at Speedco locations which are easy to find and are very reasonable. Good video thanks!!
Thanks for sharing Ray J.
As a mechanic who works on both let me say the diesel is WAYYYYY more expensive to operate and repair. If you got the coin and don't care they are awesome, if you don't run for your life. Biggest issue with gas is the owners. Keep it serviced every 3000, don't push it too the limits all the time, and check the oil often. It would amaze you how many people don't do those basic things. Properly maintained a gas will do 250k with ease, just like the diesel.
If it's more expensive to operate and repair why are all big rigs diesel?
@Jonathan Welch
Plus Insay of getting 8 mpg you get 3 at most
I'll probably use my RV 5-10x a year. It will spend most of it's life stationary at a state park or in my back yard. Not interested in spending thousands on a diesel drivetrain that I'll drive 2000 miles a year. If I need an RV to make a living, I'd go diesel for sure. My Ford V-10 will probably last until I'm an old man because I do a lot of maintenance.
I think you nailed it. Weekend warrior that isn't trying to tow a 30' enclosed toyhauler? Gas. Full time live aboard coast to coast? Diesel.
You did a true review, Thank you!
Thanks for the video.
I just bought a 1997 30ft Bluebird with a Cummings diesel and Allison transmission. My first personal experience with diesel....
I think I'm in for a ride of many sorts.
Great video, and looks like the great debate continues. I like the diesel pusher better myself. Like you said, you get more than just the diesel engine. The air ride, air brakes, and engine or exhaust brake sets it apart.
Lol. Love your enthusiasm. Great explanation. I’ve. Always wanted an RV and I’m glad you detailed the differences. It seems if money isn’t an option, diesel is the way to go.
In the end it all comes down to $$$
Buying New The Diesel Pushers Wins In Just About Every Category.
Buying Used The Diesel is mega expensive to repair and harder to get serviced.
Great video.
Hi Guys, saludos desde Cancun!!! I'm planning to move to an RV, Iḿ really tempted and you videos are an excellent guide for me, but I have a couple of questions, 1st Would you make a video or post pictures of Roy with the slides closed to see how easy/difficult is to move arround ?? Just in case of staying momentary in places where you cannot open them. 2nd. As I said I live in Cancun, in a very hot and humid enviroment and that really worries me about how to stay cool without having the a/c turned on all time!!! Or sollar power can handle the a/c?? Thanks in advance and thank you for all your excellent work. Muchas gracias!!!
If I were designing an RV from the wheels up, I'd have the front axle driven by an LPG engine / transaxle and the back driven by electric, so when going uphill the coach would have 4WD and the power boost from electric drive, and when going downhill I'd get power generation from regenerative braking. Charging 3-4 days via the rooftop solar and then shifting camp 10+ miles should be possible without burning any LPG.
RVs have the space and weight capacity to pull this off, but nobody's doing this yet. LPG in dual big longitudinal tanks as the fuel for everything (engine, range, heater) seems like a no-brainer.
Seems to boil down to this: If you don't need heavy towing or if you rarely go into the mountains, then go gas to save money. If you absolutely need the extra power, go diesel. Gas suits my riding just fine and anyone can work on a C-class Chevy platform.
When considering a coach of this size or larger there is really no comparison. Diesel is the only way to go. As stated in the video having a rear engine, front mounted generator is ideal for many reasons. In the end though the one and only reason that makes is comfort, and having the engine noise and heat away from the living area during the day and keeping the generator noise far away at night are simply PRICELESS! The ONLY time I would consider a gas is perhaps in a small sprinter sized B van (with a 4cyl). If you were using that van as a second vehicle and needed to drive it around town when not on the open road, than the convenience of being able to pull into any local gas station and fill up would be king.
I disagree a 32 ft MH is not large at all. now get up to 38 and add slides then yes your correct
If they are old or high mileage and you start having to work on them( if you would like to keep them a while longer) the gas engine might be 5 or 6k, 7 grand worth of parts( more for the labor). If the diesel engine goes out, that can be in the neighborhood of 15k, 20k or even 25 grand JUST in parts, plus twice the hourly rate for labor.
The thing with diesil is though, if your really cheapening out, then you could always just use used and filtered french fry oil. and you would probobly lose a bit of power and mpg while using it, but its free!
Should be able to get french fry oil out on the road easily......
here in europe our motorhomes are pereety much 99% diesel, better fuel economy, diesel engnes last much longer, more torque wich is really important on a heavy vehicle.
soaringtractor huuuuuuuuuuuuuuuuuuuuuh ? :)
i'm sorry for the fuck you, i was a bit nervous and i shouldn't insult you. i didn't say that our campers are better i just said they are different. europen campers make sense in europe and probably would suck in america, and vice versa. the american and european markets are very different, so different needs means different products. here a big camper that runs on gas would be awful. i live in italy and here gas is expensive and the cityes have small narrow roads. so a big heavy camper here means big running expenses and the volume of the thing would mean more problems than anything, but in america where you have large spaces and cheaper fuel it's totally awsome.
and i'm sorry again for the fuck you
+Dumy Jobby diesel is cheaper in europe as well, like it should be.
soaringtractor gas is more refined, more refined should cost more. Diesel is barely refined at all its like oil if you ever splash some on you. USA just has high taxes on diesel.
soaringtractor nah, it's just taxed way more, that's the main difference in cost.
soaringtractor That's what I said. Diesel is taxed more. Not diesel cars, the discussion was never about diesel cars.
The newer gas versions scoot pretty good up the hills, I guess it comes down to how much you want to pay. But, as far as maintenance goes, diesels are a lot more money to maintain. I have both and the gasser is a lot less to fix and change oil.
For over 35 years I was a owner operator auto transporter with 10 car 🚗 carrier, Peterbilt with a Cat and a 13 speed trans. I ran 6 days a week locally hard with close to 80,000 lbs everyday put over 500,000 miles before trading in for new one. You can’t beat a Diesel pusher. The coach itself will wear out before the engine transmission or rear end. I also through the years have own Several fifth wheels with the ford in the Dodge pick ups with diesel and gas motors and liked the diesel trucks over the gas trucks. And recently have owned two class a gas motor homes and absolutely did not care for them at all. They were too loud had no power and I seem to have more mechanical issues with them. I recently just bought a 2004 national islander with the 400 hp Cummins motor and have drove it up the Oregon coast so far and love it. For me I would go with the diesel pusher before a gas rig. But this is just my thought. 😎
Diesel can be run off self made biofuels. Replace generator with batteries and load up heavy on solar. Then learn how to fix a diesel and no more worries about costs again
+Helios77711 LOL! You can burn most anything, (ok, not everything), in the Diesel. Pop in Corn Oil, you name it.
It sucks how the new diesel engines have DEF lots of problems with it
@soaringtractor DPF has problems too. I had to have mine replace at like 60k on my RAM
I’ve fond for my gas an 8.1 35ft I get up hills pretty well I never drop under 65 going up fully loaded but I hit the hil at 80
I have seen engines bays catch fire. Would you prefer the engine bay under your bed or in the front of the vehicle?
before low sulphur diesel I would agree, D over G. I can't speak for class A's but when it comes to class C's it's gas. when you combine ALL costs motor, generator ect. you can buy a lot of gasoline for what you would spend on a diesel rig. doesn't help your choices are for the most part super C's. thing I am noticing is a lot of people are stepping down to C,s, main reason I keep hearing is size and safety. C, s are crash tested A, s are not. ie. a Ford E 450 has crumple zones a bounder, you are the crumple zones.
I love the diesel Chassis. I just drove the Excursion 33D from the Manufacturer in Decatur to the RV show in Redmond, OR. That chassis was great to drive! I was not impressed with the interior, but it isn't like it is my motorhome :). That Freightliner chassis took the mountains like a champ. Cruised at highway speeds without a problem and still got great mileage. I like the higher mileage because of the fuel tank size. 100 gallons + 10 mpg = 1000 mile range. Of course, I fueled up around every 700-800 miles. I loved it... did I say that part already?
***** Thanks for sharing, we have really enjoyed ours too. If you haven't seen our website we say the same about the interior: www.gonewiththewynns.com/roy-the-rv
Gone with the Wynns That was a good video. I am trying to get my videos better, but I get paid to drive, so it is hard to put in the time to write, shoot, and edit. Right now, the best I can do is to do vlog style. Maybe our paths will cross. I was through Nebraska with the Excursion about 10 days ago, never know what is next. I would love to meet you and your wife and pick your brains about travel!
thanks for the video.... i own a 38 feet pusher (diesel) since 2013 and my father use to have about he same size (36feet) but fuel, back in 1995.... and for about the same milage it was about the same price to fill his tank as it is right now (2020) with my diesel.... (250 $) or, if your prefer, he could do 500 km ( 310 miles) with a tank and i can do 900 km (559 miles) for about the same price.... so, my conclusion, is that diesel is wayyyy less expensive do drive. As of maintenance, they are easy to maintain since fuel et oil filter are usual on the side and easy to acces and change yourself. other than that, i never had any mecanical issues with it and my father had manifold and carburator trouble back then.... mine is a 2006 and his (1995) was new... draw you own conclusions ;) thanks
all good and well put ... but the problem with medium size to large size RV vehicles is their SIZE! it's not easy to park them everywhere! and if you're a photographer like me, you won't be able to just pull to the side and park on the road shoulder for a short amount of time, get out, snap a few nice shots of that fabulous landscape or sunset/sunrise and so on! so, although great, RVs are not my best option! :-) (and i don't want to get into how more cumbersome and time consuming as well as costly RV maintenance is!)
the new diesels run quieter and cleaner from years past and as you noted the maintenance intervals are much longer. The power is superior and the price gap is closing between diesel and gas in some areas of the country. I suspect natural gas will be the next step in fuel for these rigs in the not so distant future.
We have natural gas powered trucks where I work. They are fine on flat highways but when you turn them uphill it's a joke. Diesel blows there doors off.
Maintenance is greater on the diesel but would go diesel all the way.
I still do the diesel even with the def.
Engine Builder here. Can confirm all the stuff he said (albeit a bit simplified but you dont really need to know technicalities imo it doesn't really change what he said)
In my demolition business we own a few gas and diesel trucks. Hands down diesel is the way to go! Our friend has 2 semi trucks with 1.2 million miles on original engine. Anything bellow 500k miles is considered 'low miles' on a diesel truck. Diesel is not as flammable and requires compression before combustion, unlike gas, which is very flammable.
My friend bought the gas Bounder motor home with a V-10 gas (after I told him to go with diesel), now he's regretting it and wished he has listened. Hey, I only own 20 plus diesel engine trucks and tractors why would anyone listen? lol
You can almost run a diesel engine out of oil and it will continue to run, gas engine would seize. Down side of diesel, smelly oily fuel, you'd have to use gloves to pump if you dont want it on you. NEVER let a diesel engine run out of fuel or you'll be calling a mechanic to get it started, unless you know how to bleed the lines and injectors ( I do, it takes 45 minutes if you know how to do it).
The X-tra cost of diesel is worth every dollar, trust me. 30 plus years and 50 plus diesel engines owned, not 1 has broken down on me.
Thanks for sharing Ro
500,000 miles is low miles on a truck because we run them day in and day out.
I've got 1.8 million on my 379 Pete with a rebuild at 1.2 million miles on a 3406E CAT (obviously).
What any engine likes LEAST is sitting and not working.
But to the key question here...go diesel!
CHRIS HARTMANN What about those Ford Excursions with them $1600 spark plug changes where they have to remove the cylinder head to remove spark plugs
If it has a spark plugs it's a gas engine. Diesel don't have spark plugs, they have glow plugs. Also, power stroke diesel by ford and duramax diesel by chevy are JUNK! Compare to the diesel us truckers love, the Cat, Detroit, Cummins and a few more real man size diesel for big trucks.
Ro Cayas Um I don't know why your saying the Power Stroke is junk... Now Duracrap, I agree with you there... Ford didn't build any of the Power Strokes until the 6.7L came out in late 2010 for the 2011 year model. Which by the way for Ford's first diesel, it put International to shame, because Ford fixed all of Navistar's screw ups on the 6.0L and 6.4L... Before then Navistar (aka International) built the 6.9L IDI to the 6.4L Power Stroke.
The 6.9L and 7.3L IDI's were and still are darn good classic diesels, I should know... I own two 1990 and 91' F-350's with the 7.3L IDI, and a 1983 F-250 with the 6.9L IDI, the first year Ford introduced a diesel in the F-Series... Then in 1994.5 Ford and International came out with the 7.3L DI Power Stroke, which was put into Ford trucks until 2003, and the only reason it was discontinued for the 6.0L was because of the EPA...
International NOT Ford is the one that built the 6.0L which was an epic fail, and then the 6.4L which was also a fail... Now don't get me wrong, I love CAT and Detroit diesels, but don't you go pissing on Ford with the Power Stroke, or Pre-Power Stroke for that matter... If anything, blame International for the 6.0L and 6.4L.
Fuel cost is a dynamic issue. At the time of this comment diesel is way cheaper than gas right now and 66% less regular servicing and longer service life makes diesel the clear winner.
At the 2:51 mark, the cat obviously prefers the diesel, and that settles the issue.
Having driven different types of buses for extended periods, I'll go for the diesel pusher on the better chassis. Having an engine hump by the driver compartment sucks so much. So loud and so hot. Granted it was a diesel puller so it was going to be loud.
Another great video. I would choose Diesel too.
Great video! I wonder if there are any RVs with gas engine in the rear and generator up front? Seems like this is a better configuration for the reasons you mention.
Gas engines run very hot when stressed and need the extra cooling ability up front.
Good explanation. Thanks.
SyberPrepper because most gas RV's are built on a truck-type chassis..why would a manufacturer like Ford or GM want to waste money redesigning their chassis and drivetrain to have rear mounted engines, when they already have a truck chassis ready to go? Gas engines are not front mounted because of cooling.. Diesel pusher RV's are built on bus type chassis...Freightliner already has school bus chassis with rear mounted engines ready to go...
and not all front mounted engine RV's have the generator at the back.. mine has it at the front behind the driver's side wheel, and not all diesel pushers have the generator at the front.. some have it in the middle, some have it close to the rear by the engine..
Very interesting. Lots of great points you make. Thanks.
Nomadic fanat
I have a question about diesel RVs;
If you park them on a very uneven surface, and then let them sit for a few hours or more, will you have any problems getting the RV's engine to start again?
Thank you for your videos! I really enjoy watching them. You have a good personality! :)
BillyBob Keith I don't think I've ever heard of this before, and it's never happened to me.
Gone with the Wynns
Alrighty, thank you!
Just wondering, because a friend of mine claimed to have this slight issue with his diesel van.
C,Mon guys. If you had to pay for it, you would choose gas. We know you got this RV leased for almost nothing as a promotional deal. So I would take the end out when you say we chose diesel.
Krystian,
We paid out of pocket for our first 2 diesel RVs so we obviously prefer a Diesel RV over a Gas.
Ford V 10 is a bullet proof addition when compared to the bad years of Dura Max and 6.0. However, the Diesel will go 500,000+ miles with oil and fuel filters only, while the V 10 is worn out at 60 K miles if towing a load. Many ads in RV trader say 50K miles on coach, recent new engine" If you are driving lots, Diesel is the way to go. If your in a park for a decade not moving gas is better.
I have often wondered about these same questions for pick up trucks also. I believe a diesel is about 8 thousand dollars more than a gas engine. I could buy a lot of gasoline with 8 thousand dollars. But the diesel does have it's good points as well. So flip a coin maybe?
Easy! Gas over heats, REALLY EASILY diesle chugs around. What would you want? Slow RV with lots of maintenance? Or smooth ride!
Have you looked at used motorhomes and how old is too old?
$60,000 of gas gets you a long way (price difference)
wdempsey100 sooo true.
wdempsey100 I AGRRE 100% DO YOU ALLWAY DRIVE ON HILLS I DONT THINK SO VERY GOOD OBSERVATION
+wdempsey100 Yes (stateside costs), but the Diesel Motor will easily last 3 - 5 Times longer in life than the gasoline powered one.
I would like your opinion on the Jayco Precept class A.
Jimmy Bernacet I’ve look at them. One had either a bath and a half or two baths and bunk beds. They are really nice. A lot depends on how you use your RV. Are you towing a trailer? Going over steep hills? Do you travel long distances?
If you are traveling longer distances, I’d pick a diesel pusher. Better ride plus it’s quieter. If you are towing an enclosed trailer with lots of off road toys, for sure diesel pusher.
If you go to a local ( like 100-150 miles) campground and are not towing go gas
What's the 0-60 on both?
Most people can't afford a new Class A RV. There are some great deals in used Class C's. A bid advantage is they use standard pickup chassis with standard automotive engines making them much easier & cheaper to maintain.
+George Stone Was also part of the decision by Fiat to Buy up (Merge with) Chrysler, to get into the American RV Market share, like they have here in Europe.
What about CNG?
Only available on main roads, big City´s?
was this guy high while presenting?
Average RV owners annual mileage is around 5000 miles. How many owners will drive any RV for 20 years. Gas Ford 450 Tritons will go well over 100K miles before needing any serious work. Diesel fuel costs more and is less available than gas.Service on gas RV engine is usually available at a Ford truck dealer, service on a diesel RV in Podunk may be harder to find.Ford Triton engines and drive trains don't require much service other than oil and filter changes. Rear engine diesels a quiet, front engine diesels are noiser than gas engines.. If you just want a diesel for whatever reason and don't mind paying lots more for one in a new rig, go for it.
+gary gullikson True, the engines will way outlast the house part of the RV
+Gone with the Wynns ya ford fix the problems with the motors the older ones got a lot of engine problems
agreed - on something that gets miles (like a bus) it makes sense to go diesel, but on a specialty vehicle like an RV it's going to be used so little in comparison that it doesn't make up for the premium you pay.
The easiest and clearest way to show the difference between the two from a chassis point of view is to say the gas chassis is like a UPS truck, whereas the diesel chassis is like a bus.
IS the mileage difference only 1-2 mpg? Normally on a diesel vs gas engine, all other thing being equal, will yield 50% better mpg, give or take.
For me it comes down to how much you will use the coach. Occasional weekends, do with gas, you will never make up the price difference in mileage savings.
Krispin Gord diesel RV’s are much heavier. You have a lot more components. Air Bags, air compressor, air brake. Bigger wheeler and tires. Heavier frame.
Loved your video Jason! Question, is a diesel difficult to learn to drive? Just the word air brakes makes me nervous, do you have to step on air brakes differently? Since we are going to be FT driving coast to coast, seeing the states, I'm leaning towards diesel. Do you recommend a place to get driving lessons for a diesel( so I'd feel more confident)? Appreciate any advice you can share. Carol
Carol Buffy Air Brakes are very similar to standard brakes when you're just stepping on the pedal so there's not a lot to get used to. You will have to understand how they work in emergency situations so you can be prepared. Not sure where you can get lessons, sorry.
I think the main reason to chose diesel is if your going up and down hills all the time trust me going up a hill at 30 rather than 65 can be very annoying but because I live on the east coast gass is the way to go there are little hills that the momentum alone would push it up the hill.
the one service on the diesel probably cost similar if not more than the 3 services for the gas coach.
that drivers seat looks huge and comfortable
I sell motorhomes and was told that a good way to explain the difference between horsepower and torque is " torque is the ability to move an object and horsepower is how fast you apply that power." I know it's simplistic and has some holes in it but, it seems like a good, simple phrase for customers.
Torque is the twisting force in foot-lbs; horsepower is "work performed" (I.e. has a time component). An engine turning a pulley lifting a 1,000 lb load needs "x" amount of torque (depending on "leverage": i.e.gears and pulleys) .An engine lifting that load 3 times in a minute has three time the hp (mathematically) than one that lifts it once every minute. So idling up a mountain requires torque (the more the better). While running down freeway at high rpm is utilizing the hp available at the higher rpm.
I think a better example would to do a example between a 38FT 3 slide 360HP gasser and a 40ft 4 slide 450HP pusher
Bell additive runs $17 qt. 1 qt. for every 500 gallons. Diesel is about the same cost as gasoline and there are more advantages.
Diesel is the ultimate winner because the RV can last the remainder of your lifetime. It’s just the price of the vehicle is the main difference between two of them. Unless you want to pull a fifth wheeler, the truck has to definitely be diesel, no matter what.
Too bad FRED (Front End Diesel) didn't grab hold. You get a diesel located in front like a gas but much less than a rear diesel pusher.
The differences between Europe and the US are crazy on some things. Here in Europe, the mainstay is Diesel, though was newer for me. The Price of Diesel Fuel is a lot cheaper than Gasoline, mileage is pretty decent and the costs of maintenance on Diesel not a problem, since is more the norm on Trucks, RV's, and in Transportation. Diesel motor will hold up 3 to 5 Times longer than the Gasoline counterpart, which is great in the long run.
And, in an emergency, you can burn almost any kind of Fuel in it and keep on trucking! Swing by McD's, give the manger some cash to dump in the old French Fry Oil.
Was crazy for me as an American living here, that the Norm for the majority of the RV's here is 4 Cylinder Diesel Motors, my 20 Ft Chausson on Fiat Basis, has a 2.3 Liter (LKW/Trucking) Motor. The power is great, more than enough, good get up and go, can cruise easily at 80 or so MPH, and still have reserve left over as well us even speed up going up hill. (My RV weighs 3,400KG fully loaded) And pretty good mileage.
Looked at comparative RV's in the US and the majority were Big V8's. Crazy.
Cheers
+jeffburfor In America - it flip flops on about a 2 month basis!!! Gas is USUALLY more expensive than Diesel - but then the Diesel will be cheaper for a few months. I think the marketing is that NEITHER is cheaper than the other - so get the long lasting one!!!! Diesel!!!!!!!!
Interesting . . but nowhere else in the world but North America still use large petrol (gas) engines . . . for motor homes small turbo charged diesels rule the rest of the world. USA gas prices are all that maintain their use from my observation.
As I come from Australia where RV's drive far greater distances that's what I base my opinions on . . there just aren't and large petrol engined vehicles . . base vehicles for RV's are either European or Asian built where there simply aren't any large "gas" vehicles either. The artificially low price of "gas" in the U.S. sustains the manufacture and usage of large petrol engines from what I see.
We are selling our home with the intention of moving into a motorhome as full timers. We have already experienced living in a fifth wheel for a year before my husband retired. We did a fair amount of traveling but we were still "living" in a park on a beautiful lake. Our intention was to live on the road but we got a call from the owner of an Alaska Lodge needing us to manage it for a winter. We pulled the trigger and within 3 days we were on our way for that adventure... I digress... We sold our Rv while we were in AK.. We moved to the Houston area to enjoy our children and grandchildren but the road is calling us. We want a used diesel pusher but not sure what to get... Any suggestions??
Angie Rowe that is deeply personal, not sure I can recommend your next RV. Good luck.
Thanks for the info. We bought an older Travel Supreme and traveled for almost a year. We decided to sell it and move back closer to home. Loved traveling and would recommend it to anyone ;)
Going with gas, being middle class, and I can do the maintenance and mechanical work. Not high parts, simple knowledge, my 1997 fleetwood pace arrow, has a chevy motor, p 30 chasis, 37 ft. very reliable, yes noisy at front , but nothing a radio system cant solve. If I could afford it. I would go diesel for the Power, mileage, and a comfort. but its not like if we were trucking on the road all the time for comfort. Most of the time. were are Rv or moon docking. When it comes to maintenance , state inspections, labor, parts, and diesel fuel prices. I am already broke. Glad to be Rving in Gas. Cant get worst. Thank you Rudy
near the end did anybody notice the cat under the diesel?
I saw that cat on the left front of the RV!
What breed is the cat? He is sure purrty
How the hell is the diesel model $60,000USD more expensive?
I really think the Diesel Motorhome is your best option!
Oh yeah!
I would buy the diesel unit. However, I can't not afford it new. I would wait to purchase in the winter used. This should give me the better deal.
another pro to gas/petrol they can be converted to lpg ,nearly half the price of petrol/gas or nearly twice the milage
dosnt mean you cant get air suspension on a gas or an air horn and right now its weird some places diesel is cheaper
ILL SAY THIS BEING A FORMER TRUCK DRIVER...DEISEL MOTORS LAST WELL OVER 1MIL. MILES. A WELL KEPT GAS MAYBE 350 THOU. BUT NOBODY USES IT THAT MUCH
Diesel!
that music is annoying why do folks always choose the most awkward music and why so loud? I suppose us folks with hearing issue aren't thought about when putting videos together
why doesnt the gas version have all the suspension features the diesel does? it's all marketing imo, they throw in all those upgrades for the diesel and mark up alot more.
If you plan on keeping it for 5+ yrs, would say diesel, shorter then gas.
mine is diesel for now is less expensive right now diesel is 0.95/liter at least is Alberta Canada but its better for towing me I own a 37ft 5th wheel 2003 Fleetwood pride and a 2013 ram 3500 Laramie it's also better on the truck while gas is cheaper it's also harder on your vehicle meaning shorter lifespan and more up keep that's why I chose diesel
You may want to consider if you buy the Ford you are buying a American owed and made product. Yes the Ford V10 will only last about 200,000 to 300,000 miles. But you may sell it first.
if you get an older one you do not need def without that you're looking at about 3 to 5 miles per gallon better
Sure were spot on the diesel lol. You didn't compare ahh you plugged a diesel right off !
The V-10 will pull just as well as a diesel. I’ve passed a few diesels in the mountains with my V-10 Excursion with a combined weight of 18k lbs! The gas engine will engine brake very good.
It all depends on what you want! I would love to have a Diesel, but the cost is way up there, however they are usually built better. It all boils down to how much you are willing to spend!