I am looking at a 2004 - 42 ft Foretravel U320 with a 500HP Cummins with 90,000 miles. It looks very nice. Are there any undesirable traits associated with this model? I haven't driven it yet. Does anyone have any specific suggestions on what to look for? Is delamination a problem with Foretravel? I've never had any experience with Foretravel.
Hi Grandpa, I'm picking up my 2005 42' U320 this Friday and based on all of the models we looked at (thoroughly) this one was by far the highest quality - and the oldest. Most of the coaches we saw with delam issues were the 2007/2008 Numbus/Phenix models, which also are also prone to end cap separation. Granted there are many many owners who stay on top of those issues and have them remedied at first site but the 320 quality was just too obvious and hard to pass up. Several experienced forum members and a seasoned veteran Foretravel Tech guided us in our decision and once the differences were pointed out, it was a no-brainer. I couldn't tell the difference between driving the '08 and '07 compared to the '05 - the '05 was just as powerful and smooth. Foretravel apparently experimented with some work processes and adhesives on models following the U320 and that is where you'll see most of the delam issues (or at least we did). A good experienced tech can perform a PPI and will gladly tell you what issues were experienced on which models. We used Keith Risch from MOT and he gave me quite the education. He also won't hesitate to go grab a colleague who specializes in certain systems if he has any doubts about something. If its a clean coach that had an owner who took pride in it, you'll have a wonderful, high quality coach. Other brands of that age cannot compare to a Foretravel in my opinion with the exception of possibly some of the Liberty and Marathon conversions which are also quality but we much preferred the 320's quality and value over all that we saw.
Thanks for your helpful information. I'm really doing research for the best value before I take the plunge. All input, positive or negative, will be appreciated. Is there a best or worse year range for Foretravel products? I don't see much posted about the newer Foretravel.
There is really nothing undesirable about that 04. The issue i have with the 05 is minor now and it is that the wipers are attached from the top and it is hard to lift them to clean. Tough problem.
'First world' problem John. ;D
Likely because since 2006 less than 25 per year, on average, have been built. There just aren't nearly as many out there.
Oh the burdens we bear...... :-)
However, if we ever have to replace a wiper motor they are easily accessible from behind upper cabinet panels....