Choosing an RV problem

davidspixx · 05-31-2021, 08:53 PM

Hi All

I new a new RV... I have a Vegas 25.2 Which is nice, but I really want the drive/passenger overhead bed for storage like in most Class C's, Class doesn't matter.

The problem is:

Need a vehicle with:

Fixed Overhead Bed area for storage
Passenger seat area for legs not squeezed, like in Ford Van conversions
Length like 25-28 feet
Adequate Power ( we just tried a sprinter chassis 24' model, it was barely able to get to 65 MPH in 2 miles on level ground and that was new with no full tanks etc.)

I hope you can help, I'm out of ideas. Point me.
Thanks,

David

ducksface · 05-31-2021, 09:05 PM

How tall are you and how much over head storage and why overhead storage?
If you're under say 5'10" I think the bed on an axis; Vegas can be lowered to supply the storage you need and kept lowered to whatever height you're comfortable with.

On our 24.1 we've added LOTS of extra storage beyond what the factory offered.

Yours is a great question.
And thanks for the honesty about the sprinter drivetrain abilities.
I always had My doubts and now you've confirmed.

But
I have 4x4 axis and everyone said it isn't available...
So
I'll bet a $6,500 forced induction system might be available for a sprinter....
450hp might be available IF you love the rest of a sprinter.
You might be able to get a 450hp sprinter where everyone else just settles for less.

Bob Denman · 05-31-2021, 09:07 PM

Get a Sprinter, and give a shout out to Paul Wadley about his "chipped" rig.

davidspixx · 05-31-2021, 09:27 PM

The Vegas doesn't have overhead storage, bed not to be down or unlocked when driving. Up and locked = no storage.
But yes still want the convenient storage in an overhead. Not outside. Want to transfer larger objects.
And no, the sprinter engine is too weak, at least here in Colorado on a flat and level. If you have the choice in a vehicle of Mercedes engine or Ford, Ford is twice the HP. If there is a larger Mercedes engine that would work.

davidspixx · 05-31-2021, 09:29 PM

The sprinter engine seems to have a supercharger already??

davidspixx · 05-31-2021, 09:30 PM

Sorry for not answering all your questions, I am 5'10. but I don't need the overhead for a bed, just storage.

ducksface · 05-31-2021, 09:39 PM

That bed rests on pins, nothing else(the motor brake gearing doesn't hold).
Those pins can be placed anywhere along those side rails.
The pins are now arbitrarily placed by the factory to keep the bed up to the top.
It's so limp-minded folk won't try to drive with it all the way down or without the pins inserted.
No. Other. Reason. Or. Reasoning.

My toy hauler has the same bed assembly(except two queens as bunks that could be spaced anywhere by using the multiple places for the pins.

Put pins in alternate holes, lower bed to accommodate storage without interfering with driving position.

We removed the matress and use that bed as a horizontal closet. I'm 6'4"and could drop that bed maybe another six or so inches with no head interference.
The 24.1 has (I've read, not verified) up to twice the storage as most big class a this side of a pusher.

Bob Denman · 05-31-2021, 09:39 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by davidspixx

The sprinter engine seems to have a supercharger already??

Turbocharged... But Paul chipped his, and it made a big difference!

**16ACE27** · 05-31-2021, 09:39 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by davidspixx

but I really want the drive/passenger overhead bed for storage like in most Class C's,
David

Almost every Class C i have seen has an overhead bed, not dedicated storage.

Some have modded their Axis/Vegas for permanent storage. Have you considered that option since you already have an RV with the Ford V10 in it?

MJC62 · 05-31-2021, 09:41 PM

I am sure there are many V8 Chevy's or the new V8 Ford powered Class C motorhomes with adequate leg room in the appropriate floorplan to accommodate the need for overhead bunk storage. I don't understand the need to re invent the wheel.

davidspixx · 05-31-2021, 09:47 PM

Hi 16ACE I have not seen the mods of the Vegas overhead, I will check it out. Do you have a link??

MJC62 I have been interested in the Chevy, but there are none around to see. We just saw a new Ford V10, but it had same lack of legroom.
I do appreciate your help with this..

abjbrtd · 05-31-2021, 09:50 PM

Have you looked at a class C on a chevy chassis?

https://mhsrv.com/2021-thor-motor-co...-c-tx-i2844830

davidspixx · 05-31-2021, 10:14 PM

Hi Ducksface
The bracket with the hole for the pins is only at the top. I considered what you suggested, but, there is no way I could find to mount another bracket halfway down for with a hole for the pin. (It runs into the seatbelt bracket, etc.) Sigh.

davidspixx · 05-31-2021, 10:17 PM

Hi
Thanks for the photos. That helps alot.

Yes that was a hope, but there were none in Denver area to look at.

I will watch for some with the Chevy engine.

Thanks

**EA37TS** · 05-31-2021, 10:35 PM

Not sure about Thor but Forest River had an option of over cab entertainment center with cabinets on the Sunseeker and Forester class c models.

Bob Denman · 05-31-2021, 10:40 PM

So does Tiifin.
In fact: we opted for it.

ducksface · 05-31-2021, 10:42 PM

Picture of seatbelt mount.
A stop can be added to it,

atreis · 05-31-2021, 10:56 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by davidspixx

MJC62 I have been interested in the Chevy, but there are none around to see. We just saw a new Ford V10, but it had same lack of legroom.
I do appreciate your help with this..

FWIW, if you can find one, I really like the legroom and driving characteristics of the Chevy chassis. I drove both (same floor plan, two different dealers) before ordering mine. The Chevy won the test drive hands-down.

MJC62 · 06-01-2021, 01:46 AM

Quote:

Originally Posted by davidspixx

Hi 16ACE I have not seen the mods of the Vegas overhead, I will check it out. Do you have a link??

MJC62 I have been interested in the Chevy, but there are none around to see. We just saw a new Ford V10, but it had same lack of legroom.
I do appreciate your help with this..

Coachman makes several Class C's on the Chevy chassis. Be aware if you ever intend to tow 4 down or a beefy trailer the Chevy 6L is lacking a good bit in HP and torque.

ducksface · 06-01-2021, 02:05 AM

Chevy 6.0 liter.
$4,500 gets you 450hp and 550ftlbs.
With a warranty.
$6,000 might get you 600hp 625ftlbs.
With a warranty.

Nonesuch readily available and time tested for ford v10...or I'd have it.

These low-end rv's are KITS.
You get as close as you can to the right unit, then you fill in the blanks.

You may also like: