Would like some feed back please on a 2004 tropical 350 cat 3 slides. Are these quaility built rvs? Is the cat enough engine for a 39 ft coach? Are there any known problems with this unit and any other good or bad onfo will be appreciated. Thanks in advance. Unit has 25000 miles on it

We have a 2004 T396 with 31K miles and are very happy with it. The Cat 350 provides adequate power and mileage is running between 8 and 9 mpg. The only problems we have had have been the replacement of the solar panel three times and it still does not work. The jacks fail to retract unless you frequently clean the shafts and grease them. The oil pressure sensor on the generator failed and had to be replaced ($400). Probably the most irritating problem though not major is that the pin for the bedroom slide breaks but now that I know what it is I carry a lot of spares. I just verified that the TV's are not digital so I will need to install a converter box.
This spring I replaced all the coolant since the dealer could not identify the type installed and cleaned the radiator. A major problem with all rear radiator coaches is keeping the radiator clean to avoid overheating and the 2004 coaches had a problem with the slobber tube needing to be rerouted to stop throwing oil over the radiator. Also the dip stick needs to have been calibrated for the correct amount of oil to avoid over filling and throwing oil.

Make sure the maintenance records are up to date
It should have at least had the transmission filter replaced at 5K. It is now about due for the second transmission service and probably does not have Transynd fluid so it will get expensive. The engine is now getting near the recommended interval to have the valves adjusted also not a cheap procedure.

You didn't say what they were asking for the coach so I can't comment on what kind of a deal you might get. I would like to believe my coach was still worth at least 100K but I know I am dreaming.

This message has been edited. Last edited by: bdpreece,

Buy it! You'll love it! I promise.

I have 45,000 mies on my 03 diesel Trop 37 foot three slides. Had it since new and only had the usual problems with it after settling the first year fit and finish issues.

Would buy another one in a heartbeat