From what I’ve observed, most Ford E-Series (both 350 and 450) start life as 158-inch wheelbase. RV manufacturer’s then stretch wheelbase to whatever they need for the length of the motorhome. I was recently surprised to find a Thor Chateau with 176” wheelbase that was a 158” + 18” stretch, not the Ford 176”.
A few very short Class C motorhomes use the 138-inch wheelbase, but there’re not many I’m aware of. The Thor 19G at about 20-ft overall length was one, and some like Born Free and similar which were short and or had long rear overhangs.
I’m not sure why RV manufacturers don’t use the Ford OEM 176-inch wheelbase more often for unit’s in the 25~27 foot range other than I expect they get a huge discount for buying 158” wheelbase in volume.
Thor Forums
