GoWieder's Motorhome Story

We have spent many hours on the Internet researching various makes and models along with many hours of corresponding with other RV owners all through the course of our dilemma. We thank everyone for all the comments we have received. To all those who supported us, assisted, and to those that made us want to see it thru to the end. We regret to say there are an awful lot of LEMONS out there. We have heard from Fleetwood, Winnebago, Monaco, Beaver and Holiday Rambler owners that have discouraged us from looking into owning these models. Some of their stories make ours look like a walk in the park. We have found more horror stories from the newer built rigs of ALL manufacturers than those built prior to 1994.

Our last 5 Motorhomes were purchased New. All 5 turned out to be lemons. All 5 depreciated greatly after the first year. All 5 were fortunately covered by a lemon law. This time we decided to go with a pre-owned unit and one with a good resale value. Buy one that has mileage on it (been used, so it worked) with a top quality engine. Save on the depreciation and expect it to have a few problems and if it does, at least we didn't pay top dollar.

We put out requests for any information on Blue Bird or Newell. We received no negative responses. Decided to check out the dealers that carry them. We found that Newell prefers to sell direct. There is no Blue Book Value (NADA) on a Newell. Other dealers do not like taking a Newell in for trade due to this. Newell has a non-negotiating sale price policy and sets their own prices. We moved onto looking into the Blue Bird. We had toured the Blue Bird Mfg. Plant and have attended their Annual Rally back in 1997, which was very impressive. We have associated with many Blue Bird owners over the years. Our research showed that the 1994 Wanderlodge was a well-built year. It would be a good starting point for us.

After contacting various Blue Bird dealers, we chose to work with Buddy Gregg Motorhomes in Lakeland, Florida. We found this company to be very consumer oriented and professional. Phone calls were returned promptly. Information was easily obtained. Detailed pictures and spec sheets sent were found to be very helpful when comparing rigs. Choosing can be such a mind-boggling experience. The Buddy Gregg group (from the receptionist to the salesmen, up to the managers) were patient, informative, courteous, non-pushy, and completely understanding to our demands. Which was no easy task, considering what we just went thru. Due to the quality of Blue Bird Motorhomes we had no hesitation in purchasing a coach that would be 6 years old. We found buying a pre-owned Blue Bird from Buddy Gregg was far more outstanding than any new Fleetwood product we have ever owned.

Let's move onto the details.

Note: Buddy Gregg Dealership provided All (8) new tires. The previous owner had removed the air suspension pump, Buddy Gregg had one installed at no charge. We had a Verbal 2 -3 week warranty in which Buddy Gregg Dealership did honor with no hesitation.

This coach was immaculate inside and out on the date of delivery. We were offered the opportunity to contact the previous owner should we have any questions. A thorough walk-thru was performed. We were given a free night of camping next door to acquaint ourselves with the coach, followed by service the following day for any adjustments we may find and questions answered.

Silver Streak 8V92/500HP Detroit Diesel, 5 speed Allison Transmission, 2 Alternators, 12 Qt Oil Reservoir, Primus heat, 15KW Generator, 3 A/C with Quick cool vent, Full Awnings, Driver's Air Ride Seat, Co-pilot Recliner Seat, 2 Water Pumps, Water Filter system, Amana Full Size Refrigerator w/icemaker & water, Instant Hot, Satellite, Washer/Dryer, Musical Horns, Radar Detector, Back-up Camera, CB, Alarm System, Safe, Keyless Entry, Doorbell, 2 TV's, VCR, CD, 2 Radio/Cassettes, BBQ grill and Tool Box on slide out trays, 4 Patio Chairs and Lounger, Vacuum, Gauges galore and more.

Here it is July 14, 2000. We have traveled 2000 miles around Florida to date. With in this time we have visited Buddy Gregg's service department 4 times. Mostly for additions and items we had modified. Their service department has been very accommodating and satisfactory.

Installed "Invinca-shield Invisible Auto Bra", installed Head Knockers on both awning arms, Added shelves to closet, and a few minor additions.

Although we expected to have a few problems with a 6-year-old coach, they have been very insignificant.

We found that this coach with 104,000 miles must have been driven at least an average of 17,300 miles per year and enjoyed. Not just sitting in one spot for long periods of time.

The coach is beautiful and a pleasure to drive at night. The dash aviation lighting is quite appealing and with fully adjustable lighting - brightness as well as between the driver and passenger.

There have only been 3 major repair expenses within the past year with an overall cost of $2,500.00

Replaced the 7-year old Hot Water Heater. Replaced the bathroom Skylight that cracked due to age and freezing temperatures and recently replaced a cracked Exhaust Manifold (one side only) and gaskets.

Another major expense (totally unexpected) that would have been costly if not for the benefit of having full RV insurance;

A few other replacements worth mentioning because the labor costs the same or more than the parts themselves.

Entry Door hinge, Keyless Entry Pad, LP valve detector, Air step cover cylinder and switch.

Proper maintenance makes all the difference.

We are very fortunate -- the previous owners were as meticulous as we are.

The "Blue Bird Rally in the Valley" every October is very informative and enjoyable. Although we always have a wonderful time at the Rally, we recently noticed that the newer coaches do not seem to have the same quality as prior models of 2000.

We have received better service buying this pre-owned coach at Buddy Gregg's than we ever had on any new coach we have owned. Since Buddy Gregg left Lakeland in March 2001, Ken Robertson RV Center in Lakeland has been offering outstanding service and support.

None

Feels very safe with a comfortable ride.

Easy access to all the hookups and compartments. Large storage bays. Has just about all the appliances and quality cabinets, furniture, etc., that a house would have including a very useful washer/dryer combo. Gauges for just about everything make it for easy monitoring.

We have had 2 very cold winters with this coach. The Primus Heat works extremely well. Very comfortable with no freeze problems. Proper ventilation also helps.

Is it difficult to keep warm?

I have been told the Primus is very noisy, is it?

With the Primus do you have only one thermostat for the whole coach or can you set different temperatures in each area?

How much propane does it consume roughly?

With the Blue Bird being all steel how warm does the coach stay with 3 a/c's on the roof and only using 2 of them?

Is there a lot of maintenance on the Blue Bird?

Where do you get it serviced or repaired?

Roughly how expensive is the maintenance on the Blue Bird?

With the weight how does it handle very steep grades?

Do you ever have problems with the retarder overheating?

No and it is much better than the PAC brake in my opinion.