[95avblm3]

My wife and I would like a serious RV to travel the country in in the future... as liveaboards. I've been doing extensive research on them. Ultimately, when the time comes, we will buy a converted Prevost... a Marathon coach is my first choice.

However, I've researched Wanderlodge's as an interim solution (since we are still a few years away from being able to live-a-board). Like a vintage Porsche, it is all about maintenance and care. As someone already said, they ride in a purpose-built bus chassis. My favorites are the ones from the '70s and '80s that are truly Bluebirds. Bluebird spun off the RV business in the late '90s (I think)... Buses from the hey day can be had for decent prices.

They made several configurations over the years including pushers and pullers in varying lengths and axle configurations. In the late '80s, when the US government allowed wider vehicles on our highways, they began offering wide-body versions (102" vs 96"). The pushers are quieter than the pullers for obvious reasons of engine location. Early busses didn't have air suspension either, so ride was not as smooth but they were simpler.

The first Wanderlodges used a Ford industrial gas engine, but these were the earliest ones and most used diesels. Cat 3208s both NA and turbo are pretty common. I've read good and bad about these. I think if maintained, they are fine. Most of the pushers in the '80s used Detroit 6V-92 or 8V-92 2-strokers. These Detroits are still pretty common on roads and are pretty bulletproof if taken care of. My first choice would be an SP or PT coach 38 to 40 feet with a Detroit. Easily attainable for under $50k. Interiors are mostly dated, but hey, that's part of the charm. It's vintage after-all.

Good luck.