I don't know anything about motorhomes but have a few thoughts to prepare you!
Tread lightly with the engines of the era:
1) EPA 2007 (MY 2008 trucks) introduction drove DPF and higher rates of EGR - these engines were produced during a 3-year transition period and are different from the prior and post. Also, higher pressure fuel systems were introduced that have been troublesome.
2) EPA 2010 (MY 2011 trucks) introduction drove the addition of the SCR systems (DEF) but generally lowered the EGR rates as the SCR helped lower NOx levels and less exhaust gas recirculation was needed. I would avoid anything until MY 2013+ as there were lots of "teething" pains with the early SCR engines. To this date, DEF issues remain as one of the highest quality issues with the modern diesel.
3) Stay away from any Ford PowerStroke diesel 6.0L and the 6.4L. Both are absolutely in terms of reliability horrible the first being IMHO top-5 worst engines ever produced.
4) Stay away from any Navistar / "International" MaxForce engines. In this class of RV there maybe the MaxForce 7 engine which is a derivative of the 6.4L above. This engine also competes for the top-5 worst engine ever produced.
5) Just like buying any used car, you better perform an in person due diligence and possibly a PPI. Buy the highest quality / brand RV by reputation.
- Having visited a few motorhome building facilities in IN. The manufacturing operations are kind of scary, with seasonal workers, non-standard work practices, etc. Everything is so custom that motorhomes are basically made on the fly with minimum documentation and you are absolutely at the mercy of the foreman and crew that is "building your RV".
- Wiring harnesses can be scary if they are not documented and/or modified post-production.
- Additional A/C units and swamp coolers maybe installed incorrectly if they are post-production.
- The DC/AC inverters and the extra battery need to be carefully looked over, especially if aftermarket.
Finally and my additional opinions:
1) Class C's are based on Cab-Chassis trucks / full frame and most of them are Ford based.
2) Definitely get a diesel for the torque and fuel economy.
3) Obviously, you like the E9 for its looks, engineering and vehicle dynamics. If I were buying an RV, and I am not, I would seriously look at a Mercedes DRW Sprinter based RV. Because I know that at least the powertrain/chassis/suspension/steering/ergonomics would match my taste.
4) I also know the Cummins 6.7L is generally considered a good engine and it is a "sister" of the Cummins "ISB" which is used in medium-duty trucks. So serviceability should be better.
GOOD LUCK!
