Dean - We're thinking of doing the same thing, except we're looking at the 26'. One thing to keep in mind, if you're downsizing to increase maneuverability, the Cambria won't turn as well as your Meridian. The wheelbase is almost as long as the Meridian and the Ford wheel cut is not nearly as sharp. The best info I've been able to get on the Ford wheel cut is about 35-36 degrees. This seems to be a closely guarded secret as opposed to the way wheel cut is openly discussed with the class A chassis.
The V10 probably won't go through the mountains like your Cat, but it should be very adequate. I had one in a previous class C and it was very capable. If it's important to you, be sure to check the CCC. A 30' class C with 2 slides is really pushing the 14050# GVWR. You might want to wait for the new 2008 Ford chassis. It has a restyled front end (not sure if I like it or not), suspension and steering changes. Don't know if it will improve the wheel cut situation, but I'm hoping it will. Also the GVWR is being increased to 14500#.
We bought our Journey with the intention of full-timing, but for various reasons, that's not going to happen. We feel like we've got way more than we need for short out-and-back type trips. We've also found we really enjoy the smaller state parks and a "shortie" would be much handier.
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Tom
'04 Journey 36G - Cat C7
'04 Honda CR-V
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