Newmar Grand Star FRED

[LadyCamper]

Hey guys, looking for advice here. I am currently looking to purchase a gently used class a diesel coach. I am looking at a Newmar Grand Star 3750 FRED (front end Cummins diesel) on a Freightliner chassis.

Information please! Is this configuration one that I should RUN away from? They were only made 2008/09. I was told by dealer it was because for $10k more you could get a pusher and folks just didn't want the FREDs.

The coach we are looking at has 47K miles with a Allison 6 speed transmission.

This is my first coach and I don't want to make a costly mistake. Any help is GREATLY appreciated!

[bikendan]

Hi and welcome to FRF!
Since Newmar is not a Forest River product, you may not get model-specific information.
Hopefully though, some members may have owned a Newmar previously.

[Maingler]

I would get the engine maintenance records. Diesel engines are great but they must be maintained...

[Dodge Guy]

They weren't that popular for the reason th dealer gave. Nothing wrong with it other than it's a different design. Not sure how noisy it would be with a diesel clattering below your feet?

[dblr]

Like DodgeGuy said they were not very popular but for some reason they are bringing it back again so maybe there is hope or they can do some different floor plan because of the design. Good luck and you might want to search for a more Newmar forum board, I do know IRV2 has a sub section just not sure how active it is, they are a sister forum to this one.

[ManlyMan]

You will get better answers if you join iRV2.com and post your question in the Newmar Owner’s subforum.

Most of the member here own Forest River products and Newmar isn’t a Forest River product.

[purduepete97]

Don't own one but I have researched them somewhat extensively. Previous posters are correct - they just didn't sell that well. A few reasons are increased noise from the engine in the cockpit area and also significantly reduced storage (at least as compared to a rear engine Class A) due to the drive train running from engine to rear axle.

IIRC, Newmar also had a mid-engine diesel Class A for a couple of years. Also suffered from reduced storage, but less of a problem w/engine noise. That one had some interesting and unique floorplans as well, due to the unconventional engine location.

Good luck with your search!

Pete

[bikendan]

Folks, the OP may be a one and done poster, since this is their one and only post and it's been over 2 weeks.