Maintenance is a huge item on a motor home. We've spent more on Old Blue in maintenance that the original purchase price, a lot more. I guess this is sort of a poll, and if so, Rusty/Bill put it in the right place. Question is, other than no motor home at all, what is the least expensive motor home to maintain? Must be able to sleep two, have a toilet, and drive easily. Assume the unit is mechanically ok to begin with.
Jim

Jim, I would say none, they all have their problems. Almost an impossible question. I always figured the cost of the Coach is the cheapest part. You could buy a brand new one and have the same problems. A Motel might be in your future. (tongue in cheek)

Jim, I think that answer is much like that for a boater. The cheapest, best, most fun etc. is your friend's when he takes you along.
I just returned from a business trip not far from Yosemite and Sequoia Parks. There were many rental units on the road and that may be the cheapest to maintain. I think the rates are pricey but in context of ownership, maintenance etc. they are probably a good deal.

Jim,

A serious answer: I'd say a late model Class C with minimal amenities. My rationale:
Newer means it will be cheaper as it will last longer
Class C will use a basic, standard power train that will be easy and inexpensive to maintain
Light weight and easy maneuvering means less wear and tear
Basic systems means less upkeep
Compact means less upkeep (like one AC versus three
Additionally:
No slides
No leveling system

That's my analysis

Buy one from someone like me or Rusty or Bill NY when we're done with it. Everything works and you get spare parts!

quote:

Originally posted by Jim and Tere:
Maintenance is a huge item on a motor home. We've spent more on Old Blue in maintenance that the original purchase price, a lot more. I guess this is sort of a poll, and if so, Rusty/Bill put it in the right place. Question is, other than no motor home at all, what is the least expensive motor home to maintain? Must be able to sleep two, have a toilet, and drive easily. Assume the unit is mechanically ok to begin with.
Jim

CLASS B or "B PLUS", NOT a C!
The C actually has severe disadvantage in terms of handling and stability (especially in cross winds). Framing of the coach portions usually weak.
Any vehicle, any abode, can be a money pit. We have to expect it and plan for it. Turn a vehicle into an abode = $X$

There is no "cheapest"; even the Class B+ have issues (although they are maintainable by virtually any shop). A diesel pusher has the advantage of easy accessibility of the engine and accessories, as well as more robust overall construction and durability.

When we went to see the 40ft Barth with two doors the owner admitted it was cheaper to sell the Barth, instead he bought a sharp yellow Corvette and stays at motels. Cheaper, honestly. But fun??
Soo I guess the rental RV is the cheapest to maintain

quote:

Originally posted by Marvin+Doris:
instead he bought a sharp yellow Corvette and stays at motels.

In my Barth, I know how clean the sheets are and what is under the bed.

Motel sanitation (or lack thereof) frightens me.

I think a quality all-metal class A or C on a standard gas chassis would be the cheapest to own, maintain and drive, particularly if you do your own work.

The coach parts, like gensets, ovens, fridges, stoves, ACs, etc are all the same no matter what the coach.

I am partial to a Barth gasser on a P30 chassis, but something like an Airstream gasser on a P30 chassis or a Barth on a Ford chassis would probably be pretty much the same. Holiday Rambler and Foretravel made nice P30 class As, too.

If you are looking to spend the least amount of money for camping, I would say to rent one from 1-800-gorving. You aren't responsible for breakdowns or maintenance repairs. You pay your money and walk away. Of course you will miss the excitement of many hours spent skinning your knuckles on repair jobs.

quote:

CLASS B or "B PLUS", NOT a C!
The C actually has severe disadvantage in terms of handling and stability (especially in cross winds). Framing of the coach portions usually weak.
Any vehicle, any abode, can be a money pit. We have to expect it and plan for it. Turn a vehicle into an abode = $X$

While probably true for most (although there are some well built Cs out there), the question wasn't about ride quality, construction (unless it affects cost of maint.), or design....just cheapest to maintain. Small,light, and minimal options are still the best answer. Class C!

If we want to color outside the lines, an airstream towed by a modern diesel would be my choice, but that wouldn't address the question.

quote:

Originally posted by Moonbeam-Express:

quote:

CLASS B or "B PLUS", NOT a C!
The C actually has severe disadvantage in terms of handling and stability

While probably true for most (although there are some well built Cs out there), the question wasn't about ride quality, construction (unless it affects cost of maint.), or design....just cheapest to maintain. Small,light, and minimal options are still the best answer. Class C!

Right, Corey, the question was not about ride quality or construction. But, you had already posted "Light weight and easy maneuvering means less wear and tear"
"Small, light and minimal options" DOES NOT = C.
It = B, ie. Road Trek or Pleasure-Way. It is most true for models using OEM sidewalls all the way back. I'd love to have an Ascent
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=I5_kK3fXZwI
or Plateau (which has three variants)
http://www.pleasureway.com/plateau-fl/

Maybe a BORN FREE?

Good point, I'm seeing a lot more blown out/stretched C's around lately up to 30 ft! Overhang hall of famers and loaded/overloaded with options, etc.

Basic is prolly cheaper, some are C some are B. I think a smaller lighter generic chassis model with minimal accessories of either type is the possible maintenance winner.