5.9 Cummins

G. Lee · Jun 1, 2013

Hi, I'm looking at this Gulfstream with 80,000 km for $24,000
34ft. 5.9 Cummings Turbo Diesel rear engine. Spartan chassis. 6500Propane Generator. Air Ride. Hydraulic leveling. New tires. Heated basement. I'm wondering if that motor is a little light for this unit? I also plan to pull a 17' boat. Any insight would be greatly appreciated.
Gerald

therealsimpsons · Jun 1, 2013

Just my 2?, but I would try to stay away from a propane generator. However, that depends on how you plan to use the unit. If you are going to do any dry camping/boondocking, the propane will get expensive.

Stan

Gary RV_Wizard · Jun 1, 2013

The rule of thumb is about 1 hp per 100 lbs of loaded weight. If you routinely pull the boat trailer, count that weight too. 1/100 won't give car like performance, but it will get the job done.

If you are concerned about performance, bigger is better, e.g. 1 hp for every 80 lbs

G. Lee · Jun 1, 2013

Thanks, I'll do the math on that.

Icemaker · Jun 3, 2013

FWIW I have a 5.9[in a 94 Dolphin 32D] that I believe is rated @190 HP and pull a 3500# CRV w/o even knowing it is there.
Before I added brakes to the toad I didn't realize how much better it helped in stopping the whole unit.
And as for power on hill climbing I admit on steep grades It will drop to 35mph. That's happened maybe a dozen times in 15,000 miles of ownership.
Would I like more power...yes...can I live with what I've got...yes.

George

JFR · Jun 3, 2013

I 've got a 96 Holiday Rambler fully loaded with toad and old car dolly I'm at 27,500lb. that's max. My 5.9 is rated 230hp 615ft lbs of torque.
If I get a good running start I have maintained 50mph in the smokey mountains going through Tennessee, and Kentucky. It could use my horses, but they eat more hay.
HTH
Joe

5.9 Cummins

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