Any issues to be aware of on '91
 

RV noowbie in year 1 coach researching/shopping. Have drifted around from Beaver/Monaco to Country Coach to Foretravel. Saw a 98 Newell at a dealer and was duly impressed but a little concerned about maintenance/repair of the veneer stuff.

I have come across a '91 44'(?) and have a concern about a couple of things. Is the Allison 4 speed acceptable for mountain driving. Are there issues with engine component maintenance (belts, filters, hoses, gaskets, etc) with the rear radiator? Also, is road and coach grime a problem with the rad?

Any insight/experience/wisdom is appreciated. The coach looks in good condition but no inspection yet.

Thanks
David

4 speeds fine...No significant issues...Radiator REQUIRES regular cleaning. Steam cleaning is preferred. Oil leaks should be repaired because the oil tends to go through the radiator and cause it to retain dirt.

"a little concerned about maintenance/repair of the veneer stuff"

Since my coach is a little newer than what you are looking at, I can only speak to one of the issues you raise. I have found the veneer stuff much easier to maintain than the wood you find in most coaches--I have owned four coaches with wood. I occasionally wipe it down with Murphy's soap to clean it. I have not had to do any repairs which speaks to its ability for it to hold up over time.

Both of my Newells have been finished with a "Formica" type of laminate. My '93 has Wilsonart. I am doing extensive remodeling and have been able to match the color perfectly with new laminate. The worst I have repaired is when a small section "pulled away" from the substrate at the edge of a cabinet door. I squirted a small abount of Weldwood contact cement in the crack and clamped it.

Thanks to all for the responses - the search goes on!

David,
If you're thinking about the powder blue Newell on eBay, I might avoid that one unless you are looking to spend money: just some friendly advice.

Actually not looking on ebay but do you have some insight on that one or similar?

No, I'm new to Newell myself having just bought a Model 400. I've had the pleasure of owning a Revcon, Monaco, Foretravel, Country Coach and Elite, but this is my first bus.

Model 400? What year and coach number is that. The coach number should be the last three numbers of the VIN.

It's a model 413 not 400 and although it wasn't completed until 01/91, it's coach# 270 and titled as a 1990.

Coach 270 is VIN 1N9413X80M1011270. The M in the eleventh digit designates a 1991 model so it should be titled as a 1991. Coach #247 was the first 1991 model Newell.

The 413 in the fourth, fifth and sixth digits indicates a length of 41'3".

You are correct sir. I'm a new newbie to Newell, but I'm a quick learner, and I realize that has nothing to do with me not checking ones title first:dontknow:.