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Topic: CC Inspire Engine/transmission choice? (Read 719 times) previous topic - next topic
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CC Inspire Engine/transmission choice?

Yahoo Message Number: 55187
I am a new member considering purchase of a "new" 2008 Inspire 43' with a power train choice of a Cat C9 with CX28 transmission OR a Cummins ISL with Allison MH300. I believe that the CX28 was developed for RV/truck use from an earth mover design and am concerned that a new product/application may have some problems. A salesman said that the CX transmission has some "clutch problems" and a Cat tech said that some transmissions were changed. Any experience or wisdom on this choice? Is a five year Cat warranty enough to get through any problems?

Thanks.

Hiker John

Re: CC Inspire Engine/transmission choice?

Reply #1 –
Yahoo Message Number: 55190
The CAT / Cummins debate will go on forever. Both of these engine/transmission combinations are more than up to the task for the Inspire and if properly maintained will provide good service for the life of the coach. I have driven late model Inspires and Allures with both of these engine/transmission combinations and feel little real difference between them. My personal opinion, because that is what you asked for, is to go with the Cummins motor. Mainly because it gets better fuel economy. One of the CAT powered coaches I drove (2008 40' Allure) was equipped with a SilverLeaf monitor which reported 3.4 mpg. The salesman also acknowledged he has been "told" the newer CATs have poor fuel economy. The SilverLeaf in my Cummins powered 36' Inspire reports 8.3 mpg. I live in Virginia and almost always tow a SUV. Again, this is just my opinion.
You should also consider who will service the motor and how close a CAT or Cummins dealer is located to your home base.

Dave 07 Inspire, 52060

Re: CC Inspire Engine/transmission choice?

Reply #2 –
Yahoo Message Number: 55194

As a matter of principal learned the hard way I don't trust or believe a single thing a sales person says without independant supporting information. They will say anything they think will influence you even when it sometimes is so rediculous to be laughable or at worst and outright lie. Example: I was looking for house batteries and a saleman told me the Wal-Mart batteries had less amp hours rating. It was an outright lie. There is proabably a reason you were being steered to the other coach that has nothing to do with clutches.
A life long friend was in the trucking industry. When they needed to replace the fleet they bought based on the best deal available because there was seldom any significant advantage of one brand over the other.
Buy the one you like and can get the best deal on. They all work well or they wouldn't be on the sales lot or have been selected by the manufacturer. They offer choices for the reason stated below - the debate will go on forever and some folks have a definite preference. IMNSHO it's better to get the best deal and leave the debate to those who enjoy it.

Bob (rthandren@...)
'05 Inspire 51178

Re: CC Inspire Engine/transmission choice?

Reply #3 –
Yahoo Message Number: 55196
You'll spend far more time relaxing in your motorhome than driving it. So go for the one with the layout that suits your needs. In actual fact you will spend far more time watching TV than driving. So does that mean what TV it has is more important than the motor?

Bruce

2001 Intrigue #11278