Jan 02 2009
Getting Started
There are two things to consider first when looking for a motor home. Do you want a gas or diesel engine? If you chose a gas engine, do you want Ford or Chevrolet engine?
It all comes down to personal preferences. Diesel engines last longer than gasoline engines. This helps them keep their value better and making them cost quite a bit more than gas powered motor homes. Diesels will make it up hills faster because they have more torque and they do get a little better mileage. But the price of the fuel is higher than gasoline, and every day maintenance and repairs are more expensive. Usually diesels are used in the larger motor homes that they don’t put gasoline engines in at all.
Looking at all of the differences and being on a fixed income, I would stay with a motor home shorter than 36 feet. I decided to go with a gas powered motor home. The reasons I want to stay under 36 feet is that some roads limit the size of the vehicles allowed on it. I also think the difference in the price of fuels will be made up in mileage. Whether it be a Ford or Chevrolet engine is personal preference. I’ll make up my mind as I test drive different units. It’ll come down to which has the best power and which handles the best in the unit I buy.
You also have to consider the way the RV will be used. Is it for weekend camping trips, two or three week vacations, three to eight month extended vacations or for living in full-time? For weekend camping trips and vacations any size unit could work for you. I would recommend at least a 34 footer with at least 1 slide out room for extended vacations and full-time living. The more slide out rooms the better, but remember each slide out costs extra and weighs the RV more. REMEMBER STAY WITHIN YOUR BUDGET.
