Journey with Confidence RV GPS App RV Trip Planner RV LIFE Campground Reviews RV Maintenance Take a Speed Test Free 7 Day Trial ×
 


Reply
 
Thread Tools Search this Thread Display Modes
 
Old 04-25-2014, 05:08 PM   #1
Winnebago Camper
 
Join Date: Aug 2012
Posts: 7
Looking at 2003 Journey

Looking at a 2003 Journey 32 foot for first Class A. Stepping up from travel trailer. Any thoughts or suggestions would be appreciated, especially things I should look for on inspection.
RandyMWV is offline   Reply With Quote
Old 04-25-2014, 05:38 PM   #2
Winnebago Camper
 
Join Date: Feb 2014
Location: Bamber Lake
Posts: 32
Have a 2003 Journey DL 36GD been a great coach, cross country 2times and we spend the winters in it in Florida. What to look for?? Well ya just have to make sure everything works or the price should reflect the things that don't. Know how to tell the production date of the tires. There realy not prone to leaks and the sidewalls are Vectrolite, no lowan, so delam is never an issue. I had a Blue Bird before this coach, no comparison, but I still like the Winney. Good luck.
RayJr is offline   Reply With Quote
Old 04-25-2014, 08:39 PM   #3
Winnebago Owner
 
Join Date: Mar 2002
Location: Western WA
Posts: 209
A 32 ft Journey is most likely a model 32T. Most 32T owners who have posted on this forum say they really like that size and configuration. Do a search for Winnebago 32T's and you should bring up a wealth of information to consider.
__________________
'07 Winnebago Journey 34H, ISB-02, MH2500
Toad - '08 Ford Taurus X
Blue Ox, Aventa
US Gear UBS
FleetMan is offline   Reply With Quote
Old 04-25-2014, 11:55 PM   #4
Winnebago Owner
 
CJBROWN's Avatar
 
Join Date: Jul 2006
Location: Orange County CA
Posts: 190
I have always really liked the journey/meridian platform. IMO they are an excellent diesel motorhome.

I have also always been concerned with a design parameter that needs an offset of dead weight to balance the chassis. You do realize there's a literal ton of weight on the front end of the 32 footer, right? I don't know a lot about that particular model so perhaps some owners can speak to this. I do know it was made for a short time and discontinued. I do not know how many were built.

Based on this and the cost and complexity of a diesel chassis I would look to the 34 or 36 model to offset those traits and to take advantage of the extra carrying capacity, as well as more stable handling and ride.
__________________
Chris & Sherry Brown - 2005 Itasca Sunrise 31W - W20 and 8.1
2015 Chevy Colorado 4X4 Toad
2021 Chevy Spark Toad
CJBROWN is offline   Reply With Quote
Old 04-26-2014, 06:17 AM   #5
Winnebago Owner
 
Join Date: Feb 2008
Posts: 181
We bought our 32T new in 02. 12 years and 185,000 miles later it run as good or better than the day we picked it up. Expect to keep this coach for another 12 years and 185,000 more miles.
charles tuit is offline   Reply With Quote
Old 04-26-2014, 03:58 PM   #6
Winnebago Owner
 
Join Date: Feb 2008
Posts: 181
Quote:
Originally Posted by CJBROWN View Post
I have always really liked the journey/meridian platform. IMO they are an excellent diesel motorhome.

I have also always been concerned with a design parameter that needs an offset of dead weight to balance the chassis. You do realize there's a literal ton of weight on the front end of the 32 footer, right? I don't know a lot about that particular model so perhaps some owners can speak to this. I do know it was made for a short time and discontinued. I do not know how many were built.

Based on this and the cost and complexity of a diesel chassis I would look to the 34 or 36 model to offset those traits and to take advantage of the extra carrying capacity, as well as more stable handling and ride.
The front axel GAWR of my 32T is 9,350. The actual is approx. 8,500 loaded.

The real axel GAWR of my 32T is 15,000. The actual is approx. 14,350 loaded.

I am satisfied with the handling of this coach. When no wind is present I can actually take my hands off the steering wheel @ 65-70 MPH. The suspension is stock with the exception of Koni's on the front axel.
charles tuit is offline   Reply With Quote
Old 04-26-2014, 04:21 PM   #7
Winnebago Owner
 
Mr Miyagi's Avatar
 
Join Date: Jan 2013
Posts: 73
Quote:
Originally Posted by RandyMWV View Post
Looking at a 2003 Journey 32 foot for first Class A. Stepping up from travel trailer. Any thoughts or suggestions would be appreciated, especially things I should look for on inspection.
We went from a 1973 Winnebago Brave to towing a travel trailer for a few years and landed in a very well maintained 2004 Journey 34H. Bought a year and a half ago, we've been taking it out two to three times a month ever since.

Take that 03 up on the freeway with the sound system off and listen to her. Should be nice and quiet. Check the gauges and info center, making certain everything is copacetic and in proper order. Tire dates and maintenance records should be up to date as well.

Best wishes on your step up Randy...
__________________
Ron & Cindy
04' Winnebago, Journey 34H, CAT C7
Let's ride while we still can...
Mr Miyagi is offline   Reply With Quote
Old 04-26-2014, 09:23 PM   #8
Winnebago Owner
 
KoolBell's Avatar
 
Join Date: Dec 2010
Location: Enterprise, Alabama
Posts: 87
Another item to look for is water leakage. Sometimes the older class A's will develop a leak from the roof, or where the cap and roof overlap. Nothing major, and a simple fix, but worth checking for.
Where to find any evidence is inside front cabinets around front windows.
KoolBell is offline   Reply With Quote
Old 04-27-2014, 07:37 AM   #9
Winnie-Wise
 
RCtime's Avatar
 
Join Date: Jul 2006
Location: So. Calif.
Posts: 367
You do realize there's a literal ton of weight on the front end of the 32 footer, right?

Quote----------------

I have been under my 34 footer and a 32 footer. I saw no difference. The generator mounted up front, The fuel tank mid, between the frame etc.
Not saying there isn't but I sure didn't notice a difference of this ton of weight you are referencing to.
__________________
2002 Winnebago Journey DL 34 ' Cat. 330 hp
Great wife and Charlie, Cavalier King Charles Spaniel RIP
TTN
RCtime is offline   Reply With Quote
Old 04-27-2014, 08:55 AM   #10
Winnebago Owner
 
CJBROWN's Avatar
 
Join Date: Jul 2006
Location: Orange County CA
Posts: 190
Quote:
Originally Posted by RCtime View Post
You do realize there's a literal ton of weight on the front end of the 32 footer, right?

Quote----------------

I have been under my 34 footer and a 32 footer. I saw no difference. The generator mounted up front, The fuel tank mid, between the frame etc.
Not saying there isn't but I sure didn't notice a difference of this ton of weight you are referencing to.
It is my understanding that there is a 2000lb steel plate somewhere on the front end of the 32T. Perhaps I'm mistaken. I was told it is there to balance out the chassis.

My gut reaction is that it is dead weight, so I would rather pick up a couple more feet of coach length and put that extra weight to better use as a design element. I'm not saying the smaller coach isn't a nice motorhome, hell I have a shorty myself. I'm just sharing my opinion on the whole issue - and that's it, just my opinion. Some will not care and that's fine too.
__________________
Chris & Sherry Brown - 2005 Itasca Sunrise 31W - W20 and 8.1
2015 Chevy Colorado 4X4 Toad
2021 Chevy Spark Toad
CJBROWN is offline   Reply With Quote
Old 04-27-2014, 04:54 PM   #11
Winnie-Wise
 
RCtime's Avatar
 
Join Date: Jul 2006
Location: So. Calif.
Posts: 367
It is my understanding that there is a 2000lb steel plate somewhere on the front end of the 32T. Perhaps I'm mistaken. I was told it is there to balance out the chassis.
Quote.
So you really don't know for sure, Just repeating what you were told.
It seems some owners of a 32 footer could clarify this real quick.
However Charlie Tuit's weights given in above post give credence to your statement.
His front weights loaded are 8500# Mine loaded are 7300#
Tuits rear 14,350, mine 15,700.
His coach weighs 22,350, mine 23,000, of course mine has the heavier Cat engine and tranny
either/or, there are many happy owners of the 32foot journey, I am certainly a happy 34 foot owner.
Of course its good to share opinions, and if you are correct, I have learned something new.
__________________
2002 Winnebago Journey DL 34 ' Cat. 330 hp
Great wife and Charlie, Cavalier King Charles Spaniel RIP
TTN
RCtime is offline   Reply With Quote
Old 04-27-2014, 06:15 PM   #12
Winnebago Owner
 
Join Date: Feb 2008
Posts: 181
I don't know if I have a steel plate counter balance. I know my cab area has a steel floor above the front wheels. The weights I gave include my 250 lbs and my SO's much less weight. All heavy items, tools, etc. are loaded to the front.

The original poster asked about concerns about the 32T. I hope my endorsement helps his task of choosing a coach.
charles tuit is offline   Reply With Quote
Old 04-28-2014, 11:06 AM   #13
Winnebago Camper
 
greenhorn1's Avatar
 
Join Date: Oct 2012
Posts: 32
32T

We purchased our 2004 32t a year and a half ago. After selling our previous Class A (Safari Trek) and researching several brands and lengths, we decided on Winnebago Journey, preferably a 32 or possibly a 34. We looked for several months before finding our coach. The coach handles well and we like the length. There are not many out there, so if you like the coach and the length and after checking the condition and operation of everything-- buy it.

NO regrets here
__________________
greenhorn1
04 Journey 32T
300 Cummins Allison 3000
greenhorn1 is offline   Reply With Quote
Old 04-28-2014, 05:05 PM   #14
Winnebago Camper
 
Join Date: Aug 2012
Posts: 7
Many thanks to all who responded
RandyMWV is offline   Reply With Quote
Old 04-28-2014, 06:56 PM   #15
Winnebago Owner
 
Join Date: Jun 2009
Posts: 56
I have an 03 Journey 36DL. Good coach, no real problems (knock on wood).

1.) The VDC Unit on the coach went, which caused an erratic air gauge and buzzer to sound but did not effect operation. Seems to be common due to bad cold solder joints but not a show stopper.

2.) The plastic antifreeze overflow tank started spider cracking so I had to change out. Common due to age.

3.) Theres some sort of gasket above oil filter where pan is that developed a drip. Had to have gasket changed out. Not a big repair.

4.) I personally feel the basement ac can not keep up during high heat and humidity. I added roof air to supplement and its the best thing we did.

There is a lube point on top of engine thats hard to access but you have to make sure you lube it annually. I also change engine oil every 5,000 miles.
stardalo is offline   Reply With Quote
Old 05-03-2014, 06:18 PM   #16
Winnebago Camper
 
Join Date: Aug 2012
Posts: 7
Thanks

Thanks so much to all who replied. We looked at the coach and drove it this weekend and we struck a deal, will pick it up in about 3 weeks! IRV2 is a great resource!!
RandyMWV is offline   Reply With Quote
Old 05-03-2014, 07:24 PM   #17
Winnebago Owner
 
CJBROWN's Avatar
 
Join Date: Jul 2006
Location: Orange County CA
Posts: 190
Pics or it didn't happen...
__________________
Chris & Sherry Brown - 2005 Itasca Sunrise 31W - W20 and 8.1
2015 Chevy Colorado 4X4 Toad
2021 Chevy Spark Toad
CJBROWN is offline   Reply With Quote
Old 05-04-2014, 07:19 AM   #18
Winnie-Wise
 
RCtime's Avatar
 
Join Date: Jul 2006
Location: So. Calif.
Posts: 367
Congratulations
Happy and safe travels, you made a nice choice.
__________________
2002 Winnebago Journey DL 34 ' Cat. 330 hp
Great wife and Charlie, Cavalier King Charles Spaniel RIP
TTN
RCtime is offline   Reply With Quote
Old 05-04-2014, 08:26 AM   #19
Winnebago Camper
 
ROMANICHEL's Avatar
 
Join Date: Jan 2009
Location: Canada
Posts: 10
Send a message via Skype™ to ROMANICHEL
Like always make sure the tires are in good condition, even if there's lot's of threads on them they shouldn't be more then 7 - 8 years old.
Mike
__________________
Mike, Martina and Maya our yellow Lab
2013 CrossRoads, Cruiser 29,5 ft 5thWeel, 2010 Ram HEMI 1500
ROMANICHEL is offline   Reply With Quote
Old 05-04-2014, 10:31 PM   #20
Winnebago Master
 
FIRE UP's Avatar
 
Join Date: Dec 2009
Location: Out there, somewhere
Posts: 1,740
Quote:
Originally Posted by CJBROWN View Post
I have always really liked the journey/meridian platform. IMO they are an excellent diesel motorhome.

I have also always been concerned with a design parameter that needs an offset of dead weight to balance the chassis. You do realize there's a literal ton of weight on the front end of the 32 footer, right? I don't know a lot about that particular model so perhaps some owners can speak to this. I do know it was made for a short time and discontinued. I do not know how many were built.

Based on this and the cost and complexity of a diesel chassis I would look to the 34 or 36 model to offset those traits and to take advantage of the extra carrying capacity, as well as more stable handling and ride.
Cj,
When I read this answer, I too became a bit puzzled. You see, it would be fairly hard to "hide" a 2000 lb. weight on the front of chassis. You see, the weight of the C-7 CAT, 330 HP engine in our coach, is 1295 lbs. I'm not being argumentative here, and, I'm always willing to learn. But, like I said, that kind of weight would not be easy to just stick on a chassis some place. If someone who, might have a 32T happens to know of that weight and placement of it, I'd sure like to see it just to satisfy my own curiosity.
Scott
__________________
2004 ITASCA HORIZON 36GD, 2011 GMC Sierra 1500 4x4 Toad '08 GL 1800 Gold Wing
Retired-29.5 yrs, SDFD, Ham - KI6OND
Me, Karla and the Sophie character, (mini Schnauzer)
FIRE UP is offline   Reply With Quote
Reply

Tags
journey


Currently Active Users Viewing This Thread: 1 (0 members and 1 guests)
 
Thread Tools Search this Thread
Search this Thread:

Advanced Search
Display Modes

Posting Rules
You may not post new threads
You may not post replies
You may not post attachments
You may not edit your posts

BB code is On
Smilies are On
[IMG] code is On
HTML code is Off
Trackbacks are Off
Pingbacks are Off
Refbacks are Off


Similar Threads
Thread Thread Starter Forum Replies Last Post
Looking at 2003 Adventurer Challenger01 Winnebago Class A Motorhomes 14 06-22-2014 10:30 PM
Journey front TV replacement, looking for ideas/pics smlranger Winnebago Class A Motorhomes 26 06-06-2008 03:34 AM

» Featured Campgrounds

Reviews provided by

Disclaimer:

This website is not affiliated with or endorsed by Winnebago Industries or any of its affiliates. This is an independent, unofficial site.


All times are GMT -6. The time now is 10:40 AM.


Powered by vBulletin® Version 3.8.8 Beta 1
Copyright ©2000 - 2024, vBulletin Solutions, Inc.