SERIES INDEX
This set of article describes (in chronological order) our process in selecting a new high end Class A motorhome -- this time with the added benefit of hindsight from our first purchase.
Setting the Stage: After being "coachless" for more than a year, it's time to find a new diesel pusher again. We did a series on purchasing our first motorhome in 1999. But we've concluded there are some very specific things we'll be looking for "the second time around". Would we purchase the same brand? Would we use the same dealer? (05/06)
Narrowing the Choices: We're now down to two very good manufacturers of high end motorhomes. But they each offer different advantages and drawbacks. Certainly the size of the coach is a key issue for us. How do our candidates compare? (05/06)
Decision Time! Having done our homework on the "candidate" models we've identified, there comes a time when the "looking" is done -- and it's time to make a choice. We've now made ours, and here we go..... (07/06)
Alpine's Custom Peak Chassis -- A Closer Look: During the construction phase we make a trip to the factory to have a closer look at the chassis for our new unit. We won't see much of it again, so now's the time to see what will be under the "house" part -- and to find our what new features are now incorporated in Alpine's custom Peak chassis. (09/06)
Taking Delivery, and First Impressions: We take "factory delivery" from Western RV in Yakima. The process proves to be much more extensive and complex than we'd anticipated. But we've collected our first impressions of the new coach, and here they are...
Side Note on DataStorm: One major add-on was our acquisition of a DataStorm satellite internet dish. We've offered a separate summary evaluation of our experience with this system.
The Warranty Service Visit: Factory service is something most RV owners value highly. We report on our first experience with a service appointment at the new Alpine service center.
First Year in Review: We use our year-end service visit to summarize our impressions of the new coach after one year and some 13,000 miles.
The 18 Month Surprise: One final service visit, and the final chapter.
Eiplogue: With the benefit of a bit more time, it appears the final chapter has indeed not yet been driven. Alpine coaches are alive and well, and are much valued by their owners.