1999 36' 270, 295, 320

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1999 36' 270, 295, 320

August 29, 2014, 07:58:09 pm

Just missed a 36' 1999 U270 $39,000 and a 36' U295 with new tires also $39,000. Found a 1999 36' U320 asking $67,500 private party. Price seems a little high compared to the recently sold U270 and U295? Needs four rear tires. Waiting for seller to send pictures. He is open to offers.

Al

Re: 1999 36' 270, 295, 320

Reply #1 – August 29, 2014, 08:58:21 pm

Bigger engine, transmission, aquahot, fancier cabinets than the U270 (hidden european style hinges on the higher models. Dual pane windows (advantage over the 96'). Other things as well... passenger dash air/heater controls, three batteries, bus style compartment doors (vs. U270), etc. Condition equivalent? Depends on what you value most and how much upgrading and updating you would need to be happy in it... Just my take on it. For us, we like the oak cabinetry, fabric sofa, (just changed out the chairs from leather to microfiber), of our U270 and I can add the bells and whistles that make sense to me, so it would depend more on condition and floor plan than model.
Don

Re: 1999 36' 270, 295, 320

Reply #2 – August 29, 2014, 11:06:18 pm

Each person has different desires, but I did a pretty tough comparison amongst the models. I really wanted as short as possible, so all I get in 34' is a u270. The only downside could be the "smaller" engine. But the whole coach is lighter, and the engine is simpler and give more room to work on things. I haven't had a lack of power problem.

I like lighter oak cabinetry better. Hidden hinges would be nice, but who cares?

Aqua-hot...glad I don't have the extra complexity and weight. But, I use my RV for different purposes. I doubt I'll be in the cold too much with it.

U320 has more lights and extra pump/gen switch and some other nice things like hose reels, etc. Most of the stuff can be added.

The engine is the main difference. Bus storage doors would be nice, but more weight. Power locks on sotrage doors would be nice...but after 20 years, stuff like that is going to break!

What really matters is that underneith, the frames and construction is the same. I don't think you can go wrong with any model.

Re: 1999 36' 270, 295, 320

Reply #3 – August 29, 2014, 11:26:22 pm

Quote from: Albert W – August 29, 2014, 07:58:09 pm

Just missed a 36' 1999 U270 $39,000 and a 36' U295 with new tires also $39,000. Found a 1999 36' U320 asking $67,500 private party. Price seems a little high compared to the recently sold U270 and U295? Needs four rear tires. Waiting for seller to send pictures. He is open to offers.

Al

All used high quality Foretravel coaches are in demand. Prices go up. Short supply.

How much does a replacement cost?

Re: 1999 36' 270, 295, 320

Reply #4 – August 30, 2014, 12:32:37 am

A decent Truck is 50K nowadays. 39K for A DP a FT DP is cheap ..... they just let it go ....

Re: 1999 36' 270, 295, 320

Reply #5 – August 30, 2014, 05:43:47 am

Yes, I would prefer a 270 for the simplicity. However, the 320 might work for us. Do like the dual pane windows. We're flexible on the model as long as it is a 36'.

A good truck costs $50,000 plus. Didn't think of it that way.

Al

Re: 1999 36' 270, 295, 320

Reply #6 – August 30, 2014, 08:15:00 am

My 99 270 had dual Paine windows. It was a bit simpler coach in only one way really, the fresh water fill the rest seemed about the same.

Re: 1999 36' 270, 295, 320

Reply #7 – August 30, 2014, 09:05:26 am

Quote from: Albert W – August 30, 2014, 05:43:47 am

A good truck costs $50,000 plus. Didn't think of it that way.

When rationalizing, it can also be helpful to think of the purchase price in "pounds per dollar". Makes the cost of any pre-owned Foretravel seem like a bargain!

Re: 1999 36' 270, 295, 320

Reply #8 – August 30, 2014, 09:25:26 am

Dual pane windows & smart wheel were started with the 1997 model year. There is no difference in chassis construction among the different models.

Re: 1999 36' 270, 295, 320

Reply #9 – August 30, 2014, 09:36:03 am

Peter,

Thanks for the information. I'm a newbie and all this helps. Do not need a 320, but it might work.

Al

Re: 1999 36' 270, 295, 320

Reply #10 – August 30, 2014, 09:49:46 am

I like the analogy of price by the pound. A few years ago I bought a farm building by the pound, the manufacturer told me decide how big you want it, and I will tell you what it weighs. By the pound, FT are a better buy than about anything on the farm. Much cheaper than tractors, combines or excavators. Very good justification.

Re: 1999 36' 270, 295, 320

Reply #11 – August 30, 2014, 12:31:34 pm

Sorry to be unclear... I was referencing the 96' U295 as not having the dual pane windows. The year to year differences are often as significant or more so depending on your preferences. For instance, there has been an ongoing discussion about what year the wider entry door started... all I know is, our 99' has it

Over the years, Foretravel seems to add more features to the lower end of the line that were previously only on the higher end. Mulitplex controlled lighting is one example, more water pump switches, etc. and sometimes, upgrades for a certain feature appears across the line; like quite box generators in 2000 model year. Though some of theses appear after a particular build number. For instance, some later 99's have the newer version of the smart wheel that has controls laid out so that wiper controls are all on one side (and have added a variable intermittent setting), and the cruise is on there other. Some like the newer VIP Smart wheel can be added (I believe...). I guess the point is, there is a lot to learn when it comes to researching your ideal Foretravel and in deciding what is most important. For me, it was the trans retarder and the all wheel air disc brakes and carrying capacity of the chassis. For Tys, it was the light colored oak with neutral colors on the inside of our U270 and the walk through bath floor plan. Of course we both appreciated the build quality of the cabinetry and upholstery etc.
Don

Quote from: Peter & Beth – August 30, 2014, 09:25:26 am

Dual pane windows & smart wheel were started with the 1997 model year. There is no difference in chassis construction among the different models.

Re: 1999 36' 270, 295, 320

Reply #12 – August 30, 2014, 01:01:52 pm

Quote from: Albert W – August 30, 2014, 05:43:47 am

Yes, I would prefer a 270 for the simplicity. However, the 320 might work for us. Do like the dual pane windows. We're flexible on the model as long as it is a 36'.

A good truck costs $50,000 plus. Didn't think of it that way.

Al

Al,
Just curious why you require a 36' FT vs. a larger size?

Re: 1999 36' 270, 295, 320

Reply #13 – August 30, 2014, 01:24:12 pm

My 96' U320 has dual pane windows--- kinda wish it didn't. They are starting to "rope", the gasket between the panes is moving up into the window. probably due to a loss of gas pressure. The 90' U280 had single pane windows, and after 24 years they are just fine. Anybody got a good cure for the inter pane gasket problem? I assume that they are nitrogen filled.

Re: 1999 36' 270, 295, 320

Reply #14 – August 30, 2014, 01:32:12 pm

John,

If you get over to the west coast of FL: Suncoast Designers | RV Window Repair Specialists in Hudson, FL

Re: 1999 36' 270, 295, 320

Reply #15 – August 30, 2014, 01:35:15 pm

Actually I do not think they are filled with anything. I have done 2 refits of the 'Creation" windows and no gases used. I feel the constant sun on them makes that happen that is why I keep the awnings down all the time while parked even when not in it. I had 2 others start to do it and they have not progressed since starting this practice.
replacing the seal is not hard just a bit fiddley and making sure they glass is clean and dry and all parts put back the same way as taken apart. I used a foam gasket that has a metal backing and foam contains some anti moisture additive. # yrs later and all ok. I have another sealed package of it for the other windows but not done it yet. I guess by the time I get to it this will be past use date!!
JohnH

Re: 1999 36' 270, 295, 320

Reply #16 – August 30, 2014, 01:50:27 pm

Here are a couple I ran across

40 Foot Foretravel motorhome

1999 36 ft. Foretravel Motorhome

Re: 1999 36' 270, 295, 320

Reply #17 – August 30, 2014, 02:07:44 pm

That second link is likely a scam of some sort... two different coaches in the pic's. The first three pictures are of a 40' U320 (or 295 with Aquahot), and the fourth appears to be a 36' U295, based on the graphics...
Don

Quote from: stump – August 30, 2014, 01:50:27 pm

Here are a couple I ran across

40 Foot Foretravel motorhome

1999 36 ft. Foretravel Motorhome

Re: 1999 36' 270, 295, 320

Reply #18 – August 30, 2014, 02:32:16 pm

jake62,

Why 36' vs 40'? Thought the 36' would get us into some of the older campgrounds with shorter sites. Two places come to mind, Jamison Mills in Virginia and Franklin Mountain in Texas.

I'm open minded and if the folks say that they have no problem finding a site for a 40' vs 36' I might be interested in a 40'.

Al

Re: 1999 36' 270, 295, 320

Reply #19 – August 30, 2014, 02:38:54 pm

acousticat,

Sale pending. I called on the 1999 36' in Athens, GA a couple days ago. Talked with George who said that a deposit of $1,000 is holding the unit. Sold quick. Did sound like a scam, might still be.

Al

Re: 1999 36' 270, 295, 320

Reply #20 – August 30, 2014, 03:29:35 pm

Quote from: stump – August 30, 2014, 01:50:27 pm

Here are a couple I ran across

40 Foot Foretravel motorhome

1999 36 ft. Foretravel Motorhome

I would move quick on the 99 40' u320 for $50k myself

Re: 1999 36' 270, 295, 320

Reply #21 – August 30, 2014, 03:35:35 pm

Al,

We have had both a 36' and now a 40' and camp in NP, Forest service, BLM, & COE campgrounds. We generally travel in the South and have not had a problem getting into a campground. Now we have had to pic & choose as to which site we can fit into best but have always been able to find a spot. There are some places that we had to give up camping at when we went from a van conversion to a motorhome like the amphitheater campground above Ouray Co but we still can get into Columbine above Black Hawk/Central City, Co. in our 40'. This is just an example and others can be found all over the country. All things considered we like our 40' with the way we use it but for others a 36' fits there camping style better. The biggest thing to us is look & compare whether it is a 36' or 40' till you find one that fits your needs.

Never been to Jamison but if you are taking about Franklin SP in El Paso you won't have a problem in a 40'.

On a side note, in your pic. are those NPS Volunteer uniforms that you are sporting?

Pamela & Mike

Re: 1999 36' 270, 295, 320

Reply #22 – August 30, 2014, 03:38:52 pm

Only have experience with my 320, 36', 2001 model. Sure feel going down in model number would be a no-no, guess am spoiled with the 320 features. Without Both the Aqua Hot and the ISM series Cummins, is a looser.
I like dependability, comfy and get up & go and the Kubota 4 cyl diesel genset.
Dave M

Re: 1999 36' 270, 295, 320

Reply #23 – August 30, 2014, 03:50:53 pm

Had two 36' for a total of 6 years. Â Have had 40' for 7 years. Â Have yet to find a campground including a lot of national parks that I couldn't get a site that accommodated my 40' U-320. Â Guess I am just not staying in the right ones. Â For me, single slide, 2000 non tag 40' U-320 is the perfect Ft. Â Still have reserve carrying capacity in coach in excess of 2,000 with full water and empty gray/black, (had weighed at GV), can tow a BIG load if wanted, and no tag robbing storage. Â Yes, we like the Aquahot and the single slide, and yes they are more maintenance. Â My choices are not for everybody.

Still looking to find a park that I can't get a site for my 40'. Â I am sure it will happen, but hasn't yet.

Re: 1999 36' 270, 295, 320

Reply #24 – August 30, 2014, 04:25:22 pm

Looked at a 1999 36' U295 yesterday could be had for about $36.5, Shelton Washington on Craigslist Seattle. Anybody wants to know about it they can PM me and I'll give them the good and the bad. leave a contact number I'll get back to you. it would be in my driveway if I didn't like my 96 270 so much!!

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