oldkid66@att.net Report post Posted January 12, 2010 I am negotiating to purchase a 1989 Spectrum 2000 33-foot, 15,000-pound motorhome (RV) with a 4.5:1 drive ratio. The power options offered are: 1989 460 V8 with 3 spd automatic Tranny 2002, 2003, 0r 2004 6.8L V10 Triton with a 4R100 Automatic Tranny or either a 2002 7.3L Power Stroke Diesel with 4R100 Automatic Tranny I have been told that all of these options will operate in the range of 2000 to 3000 RPM around 70 MPH. I am concerned about power in the mountains of NM and CO. Does anyone have any experience with any of these motor and transmission combinations? What is the best combination? All advice appreciated. Thanks, Share this post Link to post Share on other sites
garykd Report post Posted January 19, 2010 Hi bobraef, If the main concern is power in the mountains, buy the diesel. Torque is king and the diesel should have the best torque curve (relationship to HP). Share this post Link to post Share on other sites
NWJeeper Report post Posted January 20, 2010 Are they offering to install the engine/transmission of your choice? Of the '89s that I found online they seem to be quite expensive for a 20 year old motorhome, hope your getting a really good deal on it. Share this post Link to post Share on other sites
wolfe10 Report post Posted January 20, 2010 Are they offering to install the engine/transmission of your choice? Of the '89s that I found online they seem to be quite expensive for a 20 year old motorhome, hope your getting a really good deal on it. Said another way, I suspect you could buy a newer Diesel Pusher for the same money. You have to decide if the Spectrum really is THE coach for you. Brett Wolfe Share this post Link to post Share on other sites