Coachmen Leprechaun

[chief5631]

I'm new to the RV world and know that we want a Class C, approx. 26-30 feet long. Besides all other options I'll ask about later, does any one have positive (or negative) info on the Leprechaun? Thanks.

[jonwisconsin]

After looking for more than a year, we bought a new 311FS Leprechaun. We like it very much.

[chief5631]

Thanks a lot for the input

[jonwisconsin]

chief5631,

If you can get one with automatic leveling system, I strongly recommend it. Mine has it and it is one of the best options in opinion. The second best is swivel front seats.

[Dp26]

Check the ccc! The longer the unit, the less cargo capacity, some alarmingly low figures. If a used unit, get it weighed before purchase.

[jonwisconsin]

Mine with me inside and a full tank of water, gas, and LP has 1,300# left according to the scale and door jam sticker. More than enough for us. If you need more than that, you need to be concerned.

[chief5631]

I def want those options and appreciate the info. What size engine do you have and how is it making it up steep graded hills?

[jackhal49]

We bought the Leprechaun 260DS last fall and really like it. We have the side by side recliners and the U dinette. It is on the Ford 450 chassis, has rear air shocks, and auto leveling jacks. The only problem we have had was a problem bad relay in the water heater and an AC power problem they are working on now which is probably a bad GFI socket. Over all we really love the unit. This is our 3rd motor home and our last one was a 40' diesel pusher, we downsized as we are no longer full-timing. Go luck in your search.

[jonwisconsin]

chief5631,

Mine has swivels front seats, leveling jacks, residential fridge, air bags, and tan cab. My wife and i love it. It is a V10 Ford 450. It moves very well. I strongly recommend it.

[chief5631]

Thanks for everyone's reply. I'm just stuck between a Diesel engine and gas because we will climbing many steep mountains 80% of the time. Any input on that from experiences you've had?

[jonwisconsin]

There are several things to consider on whether to get a diesel or a gas one.

First, the cost of the diesel one is probably 30-40k more for the small engine ones. If you want a diesel one 26' or smaller, you can get by a MB diesel. If want a 30' or longer you need a Class C Plus, with a RAM diesel or F550. Depending on how long you may want it you may be thinking on Jayco Seneca diesel, which would be my choice on this territory, but probably about 70k more.

Maintenance is more expensive on a diesel, I know I have a 3500 RAM diesel truck. Gas mileage would be better on a diesel one. It would be also better on the hills.

People talk about noise diesel vs gas, i think this applies more on Class A as the diesel engine is on the back, 25-30 behind your seats. When the engine is up front, I don't think there is much difference. I traded a 2500 Silverado HD for my 3500 RAM diesel, and can tell you that I was surprised on how little difference there is on noise. I was anticipating a greater difference on noise. Actually, under 2500 RPM, where I spend most of the time, the Chevy is quieter.

For me, the ones with a smaller diesel engine MB, are too small Class C for my choice. The Seneca which would be my choice because of size is about 70K more. Too much for me at this time. I am happy with my V10 F450.

I am sure others will have a different opinion, and you will hear from them.

[chief5631]

sure appreciate the info from everyone, it's helping tremendously. That Jayco Seneca although beautiful is out of my price range. What can anyone tell me about the Coachmen Concord? I'm not even sure what brand or model to buy, seems like they all pretty much the same (class c's). I really like the features in this one...

New 2018 Coachmen Concord

[jonwisconsin]

The Concord is considered a step up from Leprechaun. They also come with diesel engines that is not offered in the Leprechaun. Of course, they are also more expensive. Some wall materials etc.

[wahoonc]

Originally Posted by chief5631

sure appreciate the info from everyone, it's helping tremendously. That Jayco Seneca although beautiful is out of my price range. What can anyone tell me about the Coachmen Concord? I'm not even sure what brand or model to buy, seems like they all pretty much the same (class c's). I really like the features in this one...

New 2018 Coachmen Concord

We have a 2016 Concord 300 DS and love it. It is a B+/C. No bed over the cab. The Seneca is classified as a Super C.

We have taken ours out for up to 2 weeks at a time and it has suited our needs perfectly, 2-4 adults and a dog.

Other than a few minor fit and finish issues we have had zero problems with ours.

Do a search on the forums, there are several of us that have the Concords, you should find the threads where we list our mods, upgrades and issues.

Mine is the gas V-10 and has plenty of power even in the Appalachian mountains. IMHO diesel isn't really worth the extra cost unless you are driving a lot of miles every year.

Aaron 😎

[chief5631]

Well, I finally picked one out and will be getting it this Friday...2018 Coachmen Concord was my choice...thanks to all for their help!

[jonwisconsin]

Congratulations! Wish you well.

[wahoonc]

Nice choice! [emoji6]

Welcome to the Concord Campfire!

Make sure you do a proper and thorough walk through to make sure everything works.



Aaron[emoji41]

[jackhal49]

We are currently on a trip fm Florida to Maine, so far over 1,000 miles with mpg of 7.9 with a Subaru Forester in tow. It has done amazing on hills in fact better that my previous 40' diesel pusher with engine break and a 400 hp cumins. The Leprechaun 260DS with the 450 Ford has really impressed me. With the transmission in tow mode it does great going down long steep grades and climbs the steep long hills in VA, WV. & PA with no problems. Having traveled thru the Colorado Rockies I'm sure it will tackle mountains with little trouble.