p-man Posted March 21, 2014 Share Posted March 21, 2014 Hi, We are in the market for toyota motorhome and currently looking at two Dolphins: 1987 4Cyl (50K) and 1992 6Cyl (130K). Both are quite far, so hard to see both. Need to choose one. Quite a dilemma... Which one would you choose? Are both based on the same truck? Are the appliances similar or 92 has more modern? Does 4cyl get better mpg? From reading threads here, I understand that 4cyl is more reliable, is that true? Is 4cyl powerful enough to climb mountains or is 6cyl a lot more powerful? Really appreciate your input Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
FredNewell Posted March 21, 2014 Share Posted March 21, 2014 This is just an opinion, and worth maybe what you pay for it... They're both good designs. Not the "same" truck. The 4 cyl climbs mountains just fine. It averages 12.5 to 14 mpg. About the same as the 6 cyl. One is newer. One is cleaner, in better shape, and more suitable to your needs... you'll have to make that call. There is more to this than the year/drive train. Service records and documentation are worth a lot. I traveled 5 hours to see one, and had cash in hand when I got there. The seller didn't bother to disclose that the body seam at the back had separated because of a collision with a traffic post in a parking lot. Waste of time. We left. Bought another a month later. On the other hand, these are not the only choices, or won't be in the long run. Suggest mabe if you ask, and one of the units is local, someone may look at it for you? Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
sdboltdude Posted March 22, 2014 Share Posted March 22, 2014 just like Fred say's your going to want the one that is in better condition being how old these RV are your going to have to do some work.. also look at the lay out of RV you might like one better the v6 did have a head gasket recall you could ask owner if work was done/check vin# Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Maineah Posted March 22, 2014 Share Posted March 22, 2014 Not much changed in 5 years as far as the coach. The 92 has a lockup converter so the trans runs a little cooler all though the older trans lasted a long time with proper maintenance. The 6 has a bit more power but had issues like head gaskets and burnt valves from tight adjustment. I would figure the mileage as a factor on the newer one and they probably want more money for it. It is very important that the coach has not been leaking and that there is no water stains or rotted wood that would be a deal breaker with either one. Make sure all the appliances work a fridge, furnace or water heater can be an expensive fix. Both are pretty tough old MH’s so ultimately it boils down to the one you like the best. Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
p-man Posted March 24, 2014 Author Share Posted March 24, 2014 Thank you for valuable advice! From the pictures 4 cylinder looked better, so we went to see it. Loved it and took it on the spot. It was very well maintained by previous owners. It's winterized, so could not try all the appliances, but whatever we tried - worked. Can't wait to take it on the road. Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
FredNewell Posted March 24, 2014 Share Posted March 24, 2014 Congrats! Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Nicehobbits Posted March 25, 2014 Share Posted March 25, 2014 P-man ... Let's see this lovely new set of wheels ya got ... Give her a name already lol !! Enjoy your toy .. Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
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