Today’s family-friendly Type C motorhomes offer more sleeping area, better maneuverability, and many of the same amenities found in larger, more expensive models.
Type C Motorhomes “” a print-ready PDF version of this article with photographs
Part 1
November 2011
The October issue of Family Motor Coaching included information about new Type A motorhomes. This month “” and next “” we turn our attention to the current Type C motorhome models that are available.
The traditional Type C motorhome is built on an automotive van frame with a wider body section attached to the original cab section. But in recent years the definition has expanded to include motorhomes that are built on larger semi-truck cutaway chassis, giving these super-size Type Cs the same power and towing ability as their Type A cousins.
Type C motorhomes appeal to RV enthusiasts for a variety of reasons. Some motorhomers may wish to downsize from a Type A motorhome, trading in a little living area and storage space for maneuverability. Others may be first-time motorhome owners who find Type Cs a good place to start, enabling them to experience the joys of RVing along with many of the amenities of Type As at a lower price point. And families with children who enjoy camping find the extra sleeping areas common to Type C motorhomes are a must-have.
What follows is a compilation of some of the companies that manufacture Type C motorhomes; a list of models that each company produces; and information about a particular motorhome that the company wishes to highlight. For more information about the models listed but not featured, visit the individual company’s Web site or give them a call. Other companies will be featured next month.
BORN FREE MOTORCOACH
Division of Dodgen Industries
1505 N. 13th St. | Humboldt, IA 50548
(800) 247-1835, (515) 332-3755 | http://www.bornfreemotorcoach.com
Models: Diesel “” 33′ Rear Queen | Gasoline “” 20′ Built For Two Mini, 22′ Built For Two, 25′ Rear Bath, 27′ Rear Side Bed, 33′ Rear Queen
Highlighted model: The 25′ Rear Bath is the newest addition to the Born Free line. It can be ordered with a slideout in the living area where the sofa makes into a bed, or without. It has all the features of Born Free’s most popular and enduring model, the 24′ Rear Bath. It is built on a 176-inch wheelbase rather than a 158-inch wheelbase, providing a smoother ride and greater cargo carrying capacity.
Dimensions: Exterior length: 25 feet 3 inches
Exterior width: 95.5 inches | Interior height: 6 feet 4.5 inches
Wheelbase: 176 inches
Weight ratings: GVWR: 14,500 pounds | GCWR: 22,000 pounds
Tank capacities: Fuel: 55 gallons | Fresh water: 29 gallons
Gray water: 21 gallons | Black water: 35 gallons
LPG: 19.6 gallons
Chassis: Ford E-450
Engine: Ford Triton 6.8-liter V-10 (horsepower: 305 @ 4,250 rpm, torque: 420 lb.-ft. @ 3,250 rpm)
Base suggested retail price: $135,600 without slideout; $139,800 with slideout
Options: 3.6-kilowatt generator, 13,500-Btu roof air conditioner with heat pump, A&E awning, front entertainment center, LCD TV/DVD-RV (12-volt-DC), King-Dome satellite system, Bose Wave Radio, CB radio, inverter, backup camera system, storage pod (10 or 14 cubic feet), Ultraleather furniture, TV antenna and power booster, hickory or cherry cabinetry, undermounted kitchen sink, hydraulic leveling system, Sirius Satellite Radio, Sirius backup camera with satellite radio.
COACH HOUSE INC.
3480 Technology Drive | Nokomis, FL 34275
(800) 235-0984, (941) 485-0984 | http://www.coachhouserv.com
Models: Diesel “” Platinum II Series 240 and 241XL | Gasoline “” Platinum Series 221XL, 232XL, 261XL, 271XL, 272XL
Highlighted model: The Platinum Series II 241XL is a luxury Type C motorhome built on a Mercedes-Benz Sprinter chassis. Coach House motorhomes are unique because of their patented one-piece body reinforced with carbon fiber. The one-piece shell is said to be stronger, more durable, quieter, safer, and will not leak. The Platinum Series II 241XL is filled with many standard features and engineered to high standards.
Dimensions: Exterior length: 25 feet 9 inches
Exterior width: 96 inches | Interior height: 6 feet 4 inches
Wheelbase: 170 inches
Weight ratings: GVWR: 11,030 pounds | GCWR: 15,250 pounds
Tank capacities: Fuel: 26.4 gallons| Fresh water: 25 gallons
Gray water: 28 gallons | Black water: 25 gallons
LPG: 17.5 gallons
Chassis: Mercedes-Benz Sprinter 3500
Engine: Mercedes-Benz 3.0-liter V-6 turbocharged (horsepower: 188 @ 3,800 rpm, torque: 325 lb.-ft. @ 1,400 rpm)
Base suggested retail price: $153,900
Options: High-definition flat-panel TV in bedroom, Bose 3-2-1 surround-sound system, box awning designed for one-person operation, automatic or in-motion satellite dish, in-dash GPS system, security alarm, heated holding tanks, rearview mirror/compass/thermometer, generator, trailer hitch, and other personal options.
COACHMEN RV
Division of Forest River Inc.
423 N. Main St. | Middlebury, IN 46540
(800) 353-7383 | http://www.coachmenrv.com
Models: Diesel “” Prism, Prism LE | Gasoline “” Concord, Freelander, Leprechaun
Highlighted model: The Coachmen Concord 300 TS combines luxury, utility, and maneuverability. Measuring 7 feet 11 inches wide and 9 feet 5 inches tall, this triple-slideout floor plan combines an easy-to-maneuver package with B+ industry leading exterior storage, four interior décor choices, and a long list of standard features. They include a half-time convection oven with sealed-burner stovetop; a dream dinette; curved sidewalls; contoured front and rear fiberglass caps; a backup camera; a curved patio awning; and a stylish front entertainment system with a 32-inch TV, DVD, and upgraded stereo system.
Dimensions: Exterior length: 30 feet 10 inches
Exterior width: 95 inches | Interior height: 6 feet 6 inches
Wheelbase: 208 inches
Weight ratings: GVWR: 14,500 pounds (Ford); 14,200 pounds (Chevy) | GCWR: 22,000 pounds (Ford); 22,000 pounds (Chevy)
Tank capacities: Fuel: 55 gallons (Ford); 57 gallons (Chevy) | Fresh water: 43 gallons
Gray water: 52 gallons | Black water: 28 gallons
LPG: 20.2 gallons
Chassis: Ford E-450, Chevrolet Express 4500
Engine: Ford Triton 6.8-liter V-10 (horsepower: 305 @ 4,250 rpm, torque: 420 lb.-ft. @ 3,250 rpm); Chevrolet Vortec 6.0-liter V-8 (horsepower: 324 @ 4,700 rpm, torque: 373 lb.-ft. @ 4,400 rpm)
Base suggested retail price: $108,790
Options: Partial paint, full paint, aluminum rims, King-Dome automatic satellite dish, exterior entertainment center with 26-inch TV, DVD player, and stereo.
DYNAMAX CORPORATION
Division of Forest River Inc.
2745 Northland Drive | Elkhart, IN 46515
(574) 262-3474 | http://www.dynamaxcorp.com
Models: Diesel “” Isata F-Series F550, DynaQuest ST, DynaQuest XL, Grand Sport GT, Grand Sport Ultra | Gasoline “” Isata E-Series Touring Sedan E450, Isata F-Series F550
Highlighted model: The DynaQuest 390XL is built on a rugged Freightliner chassis. The radiused sidewalls and full-body paint give great curb appeal. Interior features include a spacious living area that is enhanced by three slideouts, one of which is a 27-foot full-wall slideout. Standard equipment includes a side-by-side residential Frigidaire refrigerator with a pull-out freezer drawer. Solid cherry cabinets are used throughout the motorhome, which also is outfitted with an L-sofa with footrest, a sofa bed with air mattress, ceramic tile, and a multiplex lighting system.
Dimensions: Exterior length: 40 feet 5 inches
Exterior width: 102 inches | Interior height: 7 feet
Wheelbase: 289 inches
Weight ratings: GVWR: 33,000 pounds | GCWR: 54,000 pounds
Tank capacities: Fuel: 100 gallons | Fresh water: 90 gallons
Gray water: 44 gallons | Black water: 44 gallons
LPG: 20.3 gallons
Chassis: Freightliner M2
Engine: Cummins ISC8.3 turbocharged diesel (horsepower: 350 @ 2,000 rpm, torque: 1,000 lb.-ft @ 1,400 rpm)
Base suggested retail price: $367,849
Options: Although Dynamax base models are well equipped, options include in-motion satellite, 3,000-watt inverter, upgraded stereo system, and large LED LCD flat-screen TVs.
FLEETWOOD RV INC.
1031 U.S. 224 E. | Decatur, IN 46733
(800) 854-1344 | http://www.fleetwoodrv.com
Models: Gasoline “” Jamboree, Jamboree Searcher, Jamboree Sport, Tioga, Tioga Montara, Tioga Ranger
Highlighted model: The Tioga family of Type C motorhomes features three distinct products: the Tioga offers four upscale 31-foot models (including the 31M; specs below) with Corian countertops and soft-touch ceilings; the Tioga Ranger offers six floor plans from 25 feet to 31 feet in length with glazed hardwood cabinet doors and bunk beds; and the Tioga Montara, with three value-packed floor plans from 22 feet to 25 feet, offers vacuum-formed countertops, overhead cab sleeping, and one-piece fiberglass front caps.
Dimensions: Exterior length: 32 feet 5.5 inches
Exterior width: 102 inches | Interior height: 6 feet 10 inches
Wheelbase: 218 inches
Weight ratings: GVWR: 14,500 pounds | GCWR: 19,500 pounds
Tank capacities: Fuel: 55 gallons | Fresh water: 60 gallons
Gray water: 35 gallons | Black water: 35 gallons
LPG: 14 gallons
Chassis: Ford E-450
Engine: Ford Triton 6.8-liter V-10 (horsepower: 305 @ 4,250 rpm, torque: 420 lb.-ft. @ 3,250 rpm)
Base suggested retail price: $90,063
Options: Three interior decors, two interior wood finishes, three full-body paint colors, aluminum wheels, power awning, auto-locating satellite dish, LCD TV home theater and cab-over entertainment center, convection-microwave oven, rear-vision camera, and side-view cameras.
HOLIDAY RAMBLER
A Monaco RV brand
91320 Coburg Industrial Way | Coburg, OR 97408
(800) 634-0855 | http://www.holidayrambler.com
Models: Gasoline “” Aluma-Lite C
Highlighted model: The Aluma-Lite C was developed for today’s newer price points. This easy-to-maneuver motorhome is both family- and gas-mileage friendly. The line offers four floor plans, including the 31SFD (see specs below) with a full-wall slideout. A 51-gallon fresh water tank allows for extended camping capabilities, while a 26-inch-wide entrance makes for easy entry, with battery access built into the entryway. The kitchen boasts a large space accented by an oversized window. A king-size functional wardrobe provides for extended stays.
Dimensions: Exterior length: 31 feet 11 inches
Exterior width: 100 inches | Interior height: 6 feet 10 inches
Wheelbase: 223 inches
Weight ratings: GVWR: 14,500 pounds | GCWR: 20,000 pounds
Tank capacities: Fuel: 55 gallons | Fresh water: 51 gallons
Gray water: 26 gallons | Black water: 24 gallons
LPG: 42 gallons
Chassis: Ford E-450
Engine: Ford Triton 6.8-liter V-10 (horsepower: 305 @ 4,250 rpm, torque: 420 lb.-ft. @ 3,250 rpm)
Base suggested retail price: $67,142
Options: Leatherette cockpit seats, sofa and U-shaped dinette; home theater surround-sound system; exterior entertainment center; 4.0-kilowatt generator with auto changeover; electric patio awning; night shades; inside/outside 26-inch LCD TV; 6-gallon LP-gas/electric water heater with DSI.
HOST INDUSTRIES INC.
20526 Murray Road |Bend, OR 97701
(541) 330-2328 | http://www.hostcampers.com
Models: Diesel “” 330 Quad Slide, 330 Toy Hauler, 300 Triple Slide, 270 Double Slide
Highlighted model: The 300 Triple Slide (side dinette, side kitchen, and rear sofa slideouts) has a luxurious, spacious interior with features such as face-frame cabinetry, a 42-inch flat-screen TV, and a simulated fireplace. This motorhome has cab seating for four and is designed for customers who would like to drive on surfaces other than dry pavement. Host motor coaches are built on the Ford F-550 Crew Cab four-wheel-drive chassis.
Dimensions: Exterior length: 30 feet
Exterior width: 96 inches | Interior height: 6 feet 6 inches
Wheelbase: 248 inches
Weight ratings: GVWR: 19,500 pounds | GCWR: 33,000 pounds
Tank capacities: Fuel: 40 gallons | Fresh water: 60 gallons
Gray water: 40 gallons | Black water: 40 gallons
LPG: 20 gallons
Chassis: Ford F-550 Crew Cab
Engine: Power Stroke 6.7-liter V-8 turbocharged (horsepower: 300 @ 2,800 rpm, torque: 660 lb.-ft. @ 1,600 rpm)
Base suggested retail price: $189,280
Options: Class C leveling system, navigation, winch, deluxe bumper with two lights, 70-gallon fuel tank, diesel generator upgrade, leather interior, 22-inch flat-screen TV in bedroom, insulated windows, satellite dish, 145-watt solar panel, rearview camera, 16-foot power awning, RV barbecue, microwave-convection oven, full-body paint, and more.
ITASCA
Division of Winnebago Industries
605 W. Crystal Lake Road | Forest City, IA 50436
(641) 585-3535 | http://www.winnebagoind.com
Models: Diesel “” Navion, Navion iQ | Gasoline “” Cambria, Impulse, Impulse Silver
Highlighted model: The new double-slideout Itasca Cambria 28T features a spacious U-shaped dinette nestled in the front slideout room, with swiveling cab seats that provide additional seating when watching the 26-inch TV mounted on a swiveling/telescoping bracket. The inline galley has all that’s needed for cooking on the go. The enclosed bathroom is situated midcoach, with a walk-around queen-size bed found in the rear driver’s-side slideout. The bedroom also features a spacious wardrobe and a second sink.
Dimensions: Exterior length: 29 feet 10 inches
Exterior width: 95 inches | Interior height: 6 feet 5 inches
Wheelbase: 200 inches
Weight ratings: GVWR: 14,500 pounds | GCWR: 22,000 pounds
Tank capacities: Fuel: 55 gallons | Fresh water: 29 gallons
Gray water: 34 gallons | Black water: 26 gallons
LPG: 18 gallons
Chassis: Ford E-450
Engine: Ford Triton 6.8-liter V-10 (horsepower: 305 @ 4,250 rpm, torque: 420 lb.-ft. @ 3,250 rpm)
Base suggested retail price: $88,724
Options: Full-body paint, RV radio/rearview monitor system, Sirius Satellite Radio, satellite TV system, interior upgrade package, stainless-steel microwave-convection oven, rear 19-inch LCD TV, exterior entertainment center with 26-inch LCD TV/stereo/DVD, powered patio awning, 4,000-watt Cummins Onan MicroQuiet gas generator, 300-watt inverter, air conditioner with heat pump, cold water filtration system, skylight, rear auxiliary air springs, stylized aluminum wheels, and automatic hydraulic leveling jacks.
JAYCO INC.
903 S. Main St. | Middlebury, IN 46540
(574) 825-5861 | http://www.jayco.com
Models: Diesel “” Embark, Seneca | Gasoline “” Greyhawk, Melbourne
Highlighted model: The Seneca combines the luxury of a Type A motorhome with the practical maneuverability of a Type C. The Seneca model has four available floor plans (including the 36 FK; specs below) in lengths ranging from 38 feet to 39 feet. It is built on the Freightliner Business Class M2 chassis with a Cummins 340-horsepower engine.
Dimensions: Exterior length: 38.5 inches
Exterior width: 102 inches | Interior height: 7 feet
Wheelbase: 268.5 inches
Weight ratings: GVWR: 25,500 pounds | GCWR: 33,000 pounds
Tank capacities: Fuel: 74 gallons | Fresh water: 81.5 gallons
Gray water: 41 gallons | Black water: 51.5 gallons
LPG: 13.2 gallons
Chassis: Freightliner Business Class M2 106
Engine: Cummins ISB6.7 turbocharged diesel (horsepower: 340 @ 2,800 rpm, torque: 660 lb.-ft. @ 1,600 rpm)
Base suggested retail price: $190,699
Options: Side-by-side refrigerator, exterior entertainment center, fireplace in the living area, power cord reel, premium paint package, thermal-pane tinted windows, Sirius Satellite Radio system, satellite kit, and in-motion dome satellite dish.
LAZY DAZE INC.
4303 Mission Blvd. | Montclair, CA 91763
(909) 627-1103 | http://www.lazydaze.com
Models: Gasoline “” 24′ Twin/King, 24′ Front Lounge, 24′ Front Dinette, 27′ Rear Kitchen, 27′ Mid-Bath, 27′ Rear Bath, 31′ Island Bed, 31′ Twin Bed
Highlighted model: The 2012 27′ Rear Bath boasts standard large, insulated thermal-pane windows that create an open, airy interior while allowing a spectacular view of the great outdoors. This motorhome is loaded with standard features such as full-body paint, a 4,000-watt generator, a 15,000-Btu air conditioner with heat pump, three Fan-Tastic vents, a 100-watt solar panel, two maintenance-free AGM house batteries, LED interior lighting, and an LED TV.
Dimensions: Exterior length: 27 feet
Exterior width: 99 inches | Interior height: 6 feet 7 inches
Wheelbase: 176 inches
Weight ratings: GVWR: 14,500 pounds | GCWR: 20,000 pounds
Tank capacities: Fuel: 55 gallons | Fresh water: 60 gallons
Gray water: 35 gallons | Black water: 24 gallons
LPG: 14 gallons
Chassis: Ford E-450
Engine: Ford Triton 6.8-liter V-10 (horsepower: 305 @ 4,250 rpm, torque: 420 lb.-ft. @ 3,250 rpm)
Base suggested retail price: $86,750
LEISURE TRAVEL VANS
Division of Triple E Recreational Vehicles
301 Robin Blvd. | Winkler, Manitoba, Canada R6W 4c4
(204) 325-4361 | http://www.leisurevans.com
Models: Diesel “” Libero, Serenity, Unity
Highlighted model: The 2012 Serenity S24CB sets a new standard of construction and styling. It incorporates the fit, finish, and quality that customers are accustomed to and recognize in Leisure Travel Vans products.
Dimensions: Exterior length: 24 feet 4 inches
Exterior width: 96 inches | Interior height: 6 feet 3 inches
Wheelbase: 170.3 inches
Weight ratings: GVWR: 11,030 pounds | GCWR: 15,250 pounds
Tank capacities: Fuel: 26.4 gallons | Fresh water: 30 gallons
Gray water: 37 gallons | Black water: 29 gallons
LPG: 11.9 gallons
Chassis: Mercedes-Benz Sprinter 3500
Engine: Mercedes-Benz 3.0-liter V-6 turbocharged (horsepower: 188 @ 3,800 rpm, torque: 325 lb.-ft. @ 1,400 rpm)
Base suggested retail price: $131,879 (Canadian funds)
MVP RV
5300 Via Ricardo | Riverside, CA 92509
(951) 208-7553 | http://www.mvprv.com
Models: Gasoline “” Tahoe
Highlighted model: The Tahoe 270 QBS features a wraparound dinette in the front slideout, a queen-size bed, and a separate bath, as well as a midship TV and a galley with generous storage. Standard features include: Onan generator, porcelain toilet, heated holding tanks, exterior shower, queen-size bed, breakaway mirrors, awning, large oven, and 5,000-pound hitch. The full pass-through exterior storage compartment and fiberglass front cap give this motorhome the feel of a more expensive unit.
Dimensions: Exterior length: 28 feet 7 inches
Exterior width: 100 inches | Interior height: 6 feet 10 inches
Wheelbase: 198 inches
Weight ratings: GVWR: 14,500 pounds | GCWR: 19,500 pounds
Tank capacities: Fuel: 55 gallons | Fresh water: 53 gallons
Gray water: 38 gallons | Black water: 38 gallons
LPG: 14 gallons
Chassis: Ford E-450
Engine: Ford Triton 6.8-liter V-10 (horsepower: 305 @ 4,250 rpm, torque: 420 lb.-ft. @ 3,250 rpm)
Base suggested retail price: $71,412
Options: Nearly everything is standard with the Tahoe but options include a spare tire, rear ladder, wheel simulators, cab-over and bedroom TVs, and deep-cell 6-volt batteries.
NEXUS RV
3400 Reedy Drive | Elkhart, IN 46514
(855) 786-3987 | http://www.nexusrv.com
Models: Gasoline “” Phantom, Viper
Highlighted model: The Viper 29 features three slideouts, a 32-inch TV with Xstreme Sound Bar, electric awning, cherry wood, seamless fiberglass roof, steel cage construction, Generac generator, air conditioner and furnace, backup camera, molded fiberglass running boards, soft-touch two-tone driver (power) and passenger seats, pass-through storage compartment, one-piece molded shower with glass door, and a two-door refrigerator. Nexus RV sells factory-direct and offers two other Viper “B+” models: the single-slideout Viper 24, and the double-slideout Viper 27.
Dimensions: Exterior length: 30 feet 6 inches
Exterior width: 96 inches | Interior height: 6 feet 5 inches
Wheelbase: 208 inches
Weight ratings: GVWR: 14,500 pounds | GCWR: 19,500 pounds
Tank capacities: Fuel: 55 gallons | Fresh water: 38 gallons
Gray water: 27 gallons | Black water: 27 gallons
LPG: 10 gallons
Chassis: Ford E-450
Engine: Ford Triton 6.8-liter V-10 (horsepower: 305 @ 4,250 rpm, torque: 420 lb.-ft. @ 3,250 rpm)
Base suggested retail price: $74,509
Options: 600-watt inverter, full-body paint, navigation system, DVD player, 50-amp service, rear backup alarm, outside entertainment center, large two-way refrigerator, extra coach battery.
RENEGADE CUSTOM COACHES
52216 State Route 15 | Bristol, IN 46507
(574) 848-1126 | http://www.renegaderv.com
Models: Diesel “” Explorer, IKON
Highlighted model: The IKON was designed for the motorhome buyer wanting the look, feel, and luxury of a high-end bus conversion plus a large towing capacity.
Dimensions: Exterior length: 45 feet
Exterior width: 101 1/4 inches | Interior height: 7 feet 8 1/2 inches
Wheelbase: 340 inches
Weight ratings: GVWR: Freightliner 57,000 pounds; Volvo: 56,000 pounds | GCWR: 80,000 pounds
Tank capacities: Fuel: 120 gallons | Fresh water: 150 gallons
Gray water: 75 gallons | Black water: 75 gallons
LPG: 38 gallons
Chassis: Freightliner Cascadia, Volvo VNL64300
Engine: Freightliner: Detroit Diesel DD15 (horsepower: 560 @ 1,800 rpm, torque 1,850 lb.-ft. @ 1,100 rpm); Cummins ISX15 (horsepower: 600 @ 1,800 rpm, torque: 1,850 lb.-ft @ 1,200 rpm). Volvo: D13 (horsepower: 500 @ 1,700 rpm, torque: 1,850 lb.-ft. @ 1,200 rpm)
Base suggested retail price: $524,000