Skip to main content ↑ ↓
Topic: Phenix Opinions/Guidance (Read 924 times) previous topic - next topic

Phenix Opinions/Guidance

Can anyone provide any information or opinions on the Foretravel Phenix models? I am looking into the older U320's but my wife wants something a little newer, but I insist on a "prior DEF" motorhome, and the Phenix seems to fit that. I think they came out in 2006 or so.
Anyone know of any particular issues, pros or cons, etc. for the Phenix model?
Thanks,
Wade Griffin

Re: Phenix Opinions/Guidance

Reply #1 –
Do a search on pto and inverter problems.
1999 40 ft. U-320 wtfe build 5563 Chuck & Lynda's "Rollin' Inn"  2030 watts solar
prev. mh's 71 GMC 5 yrs. 73 Pace Setter 1 yr. 78 Vogue 5 yrs 81 FTX 40ft all electric 18 yrs. 1996 Monaco Signature 3 yrs.
2014 Grand Cherokee Overland
Dream as if you will live forever. Live as if you will die today.  James Dean

Re: Phenix Opinions/Guidance

Reply #2 –
Also search for slide out delamination on 06-8 models I think. 
Bruce, Linda, and Macy
Zoey RIP 1/20/19
1999 U295 40' build #5400
2017 silver Jeep Wrangler, 1260 watts of solar on top
Moving around the country

Re: Phenix Opinions/Guidance

Reply #3 –
Some of the Phenix's have the Cummins ISX motor with the dual overhead camshaft that too frequently required rebuilding.

Re: Phenix Opinions/Guidance

Reply #4 –
I appreciate all the responses and a couple private messages.  I think I will stick with my first impression, and continue looking at the U320's.  I am in no hurry at the moment, but it does help if I have one direction to focus on.
Thanks,
Wade Griffin

Re: Phenix Opinions/Guidance

Reply #5 –
Quote from: wog099 –
I appreciate all the responses and a couple private messages.  I think I will stick with my first impression, and continue looking at the U320's.  I am in no hurry at the moment, but it does help if I have one direction to focus on.
Thanks,
Wade Griffin
Wade there's a lot of options out there. But if you get yourself a 2000 through 2003 u320 that's been well taken care of, and put some money into it you'll be much happier I think. Unless your other half knows a lot about motorhomes it's up to you to school her not the other way around. A lot of people think newer is better but not necessarily the case in this realm. Sure I would love to have a new ih-45 with independent front suspension. I drove one once and it was a dream to drive. Didn't much care for the interior though since I'm not a rockstar, a politician, or frequently going to Las Vegas lol. I prefer the older coach interiors.
That's just my two cents worth but I've been in enough other coaches to know that paying more doesn't necessarily get you more sometimes you get less.
'99 U320 40 WTFE
Build #5462,
1500 Watts Solar 600 amp Victron lithium
2012 Jeep Grand Cherokee Overland Hemi
Instagram bobfnbw
Retired

Re: Phenix Opinions/Guidance

Reply #6 –
To get some first hand Phenix information I would pm Brad Metzger. He drives a 2010 and can tell you about the Generator and the inverters. You will find him on around the fire ring. They are a fine looking coach but like all others they have their points .. They all do, he knows more about that particular rig than many.
Dub McBride 1996 270

Re: Phenix Opinions/Guidance

Reply #7 –
Quote from: Dub –
To get some first hand Phenix information I would pm Brad Metzger. He drives a 2010 and can tell you about the Generator and the inverters.

And the dry PTO...
Learn every day, but especially from the experiences of others. It's cheaper!  - John C. Bogle

2000 U320 36' non-slide / WildEBeest Rescue
2003 U320

Re: Phenix Opinions/Guidance

Reply #8 –
I have had twp phenix coaches. A 2006 and my current one a 2008.  These are basically a 320 on steroids because of the ISX engine.  I have never had a problem with either one other the PTO shaft that had to be replaced.  My coach has a Onan 12.5 generator that works great.  Now my unit was the last 40ft built with solid axle and air operated steps.  The next ones built had independent suspension and electric steps.  I have followed the ISX engine posts and in general the ones with any issues  were built after 2007 with various smog attachments.  My unit was the last pre-smog engine built that was in Foretravel stock and thats why I pulled the trigger on a new coach since I knew that a new coach was soon in the future.  I would just buy without hesitation a phenix that appealed to you based on layout and milage. Cummins switched to a single overhead Cam engine in 2010 vs the double overhead Cam when they went to a pressurized injection rail that didn't require the second cam to control fuel.  The power of the ISX 600 is amazing and having owned two 320's years before its the best riding and responsive coach I  have ever driven.  Like with any used coach purchased, plan for the potential expense that are inevitable, but enjoy.