How to get started

[iwander_85pt40]

Hi John,

My wife and I just bought our '85PT40, and went through the same
process you are starting. So, some perspective from my point of view.

Decide what your primary use will be. We plan to become fulltimers,
so a PT40 was more practical in terms of storage and over all living
space/headroom. For a weekender, or for that yearly camping vacation,
the FC will work just fine, IMHO.

There will be less issue regarding length at some RV parks and
campgrounds with the FC. However, if you opt for a pusher, the SP/PT
36-38 footers will help with this problem.

In the FC, you will be stepping over the engine doghouse to get into
the cockpit seats. However, BB's thoughtful seat side slide function
does help.

The engine noise level is somewhat higher in the FC. I test drove
an FC35 and carried on a fairly normal conversation with the seller,
who was sitting in the copilot seat, and another person sitting on the
couch behind him. If the doghouse insulation is in good shape, I
don't think noise will be a big issue.

The FC comes with side bath and rear bath configurations. The side
bath is positioned between the living area and kitchen. The rear bath
is across the rear of the coach behind the bedroom area. Early on, by
personl choice, we ruled out consideration of the side bath models.
However, if you have children, the rear bath may be somewhat
impractical, as has been mentioned in other posts.

The ride differs between the FC and PT/SP models. There is more
"float" on uneven pavement from the FC. This is primarily due to the
wheelbase/length ratio and the fact that the freshwater tank is
mounted to the rear of the drive axle.

If you plan to finance any or all of your purchase, contact
potential lenders regarding the lender's cutoff year to finance. Some
won't finance anything older than ten years.

I suggest you locate and inspect/test drive at least one of each
model (maybe some fine, friendly BB owners in your part of country can
help you out). Then start listing the pros and cons of each based on
your intended use/lifestyle. You can then narrow your search to the
model and configurations that fit your personal criteria.

Have fun. You will meet and talk to some fine folks.

Phil
"iWander" 85PT40
So. California