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posting questions??
Taking a chance, is this the right way to ask questions? This is the only place I could find for me to be able to type in anything. Does anyone know of authorized provost factory service providers in west Texas area? I mean one that can/does provide “original” warranty services and then does out of warrantyservice repairs also? I’ve noticed there seems to be a numbered “update to” different levels? for example a level 3 service/inspection? what is that and is a level 2 or 1 more intense/expensive then?
would they be able to provide a prebuy inspection for the public? I realize there is a cost but may be a deal maker/killer for us “used” buyers. Thanks!
jt
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16 Replies
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This is the place to ask questions. Sometimes by accident we may also give correct answers.
All kidding aside, your question recognizes something owners and potential owners face. Qualified service providers are few and far between. And just so it is very clear, a qualified service provider is not someone that has experience with RVs or heavy vehicles. Prevost conversions are somewhat complex and some systems should never be repaired by other than those with the training and expertise.
More specifically, the Prevost chassis is best serviced by a Prevost service center, or a certified Prevost repair shop. The conversion is best serviced by the converter, either at their location, or by a technician that can come to your location. An alternative, is someone who has a long history and a demonstrated expertise in servicing Prevost conversions.
A pre-buy inspection involves several disciplines. The specific coach will influence the degree and extent of the inspection with a 20 year old coach getting a lesser quality inspection due to the relative simplicity and expected lower cost (risk), while a nearly new coach is going to get a more detailed inspection due to the higher cost.
Start with the coach records. If the maintenance has been recorded over a broiad period of time most of the inspection is done. Literally. From detailed records you learn a lot about a coach, how well it has been maintained and best of all it will show what has been done and what is to be done at future dates.
That still does not rule out the need for some valuable inspections. The engine and transmission should have the codes checked and the history made known. A detroit, allison or Volvo dealer will do these. If the coach is an XLII and it has not had the skin repairs, it needs to be inspected by Prevoet. It may need nothing, or it may need expensive repairs and only Prevost can tell you the condition, the cost of any repairs if needed, and how much they may or may not participate in those costs.
Then the rest of the coach needs to be given a detailed inspection which includes operating every switch, knob and dial to verify everything works or to identify things that need attention. You the buyer can do that as long as you are willing to take the time.
Folks in west TX need to help you with the location of the nearest service facility.
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Where are you located, as that West Texas is as big as some States up North?
Bought my coach in Odessa Tx. years ago and found out quick their wasn’t anybody out in that area that could work on the coach part. Tried several back then in 2011. Had mine down for ac (cruise air) and aqua Hot work in the Midland/Odessa area and they were lost. They will tell you “Yes we do” but you will find out quick “No they Can’t”. AC on bus was just as bad. None of the shops would touch it. There was a Stewart Stevenson for the Detroit Engine work. Previous owner took this coach to the Dallas/Ft worth area for work. Live halfway between Houston/San Antonio, 75 miles East of Austin and almost just as bad here. Just got back from Houston Prevost yesterday for Prevost work. .Have a fella out of the Granger (50 miles east of Austin) area that comes down and knows these coaches from top to bottom that works on Coach issues. Don’t know how long that will last as I heard he’s running for Mayor of Granger.
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JT, we know you are from West Texas, but do have a bus or are you looking at one in that area ? Or, are you looking for service after you get one ? That info would be helpful to give you some answers. Geo.
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jt , the levels of service can be explained online or that’s where I found them or by a call to a Prevost Service Center near you. Just had a Level 3 done on mine. That’s better than the 1 as more systems are checked or supposed to be. As far as service on warranty covered goodies inside (conversion stuff) probably have to take it back to who built coach. My converter on my coach dropped out a long time ago. No help on mine. Bought my Prevost 4 years ago and still learning systems and finding buttons and switches that work in conjunction with other buttons and switches. Like finding easter Eggs.
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We added the 3 Prevost service levels in our Article Section.
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The Prevost Service Center in Ft. Worth is a good place for Prevost items.On the east side of Dallas is Luxury Coach Service for general coach services. They provide a wide range of RV services and repairs. I have had them repair a roof air, a water heater issue, all of the rubber mud flaps under the coach, and a few other general items. I use them, they are a good shop and are trustworthy.
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finally got the reply buttons!
starting the search. found one here 95 liberty at olympic but have been told that it just sold a few months ago too..??
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thanks for the reply buttons!
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thanks. that’ll go on my list.
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JT…
I found two apps for my Iphone…one named “Prevost Tools” and the other “Prevost Service”. I was on an extensive trip this past summer and had a minor problem. Looked on my Prevost Service app…located and called a recommended service provider up the road about a hundred miles.(In Indianapolis, IN)…they got me in when I arrived and 45 minutes later we were back on the road.
I don’t know whether it works that well all the time, but it sure worked well for me that time. ty
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I second Prevost Fort Worth and Luxury Coach Services in Rockwall Tx. Excellent experiences with both.
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I like the Prevost apps, hope I don’t have to use them, but glad to hear someone has had a positive experience.
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The Ft Worth Prevost dealer told me his pre purchase inspection would take about five hours and cost $6650.
How does that sound to everyone?
I know I can’t do it and spending $6650 could save me a lot of money, I don’t mind the charges.
He also indicated that he charges three hours labor per air bag change if needed. Does that sound normal?
We’re retired and willing to travel to find a good machine.
Thanks ,
Phil
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Air bags can be changed in a day. Anything more than that you are paying for somebody’s on the job training.
A comprehensive chassis inspection would take 5 hours easily and more importantly it should include not only a complete review of the maintenance status of all needed service items (if there is no proof in the form of receipts or logs consider the service not done) but also a reading of all engine and transmission histories and codes.
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Phil:
If you are seriously looking and willing to travel to Florida we have just decided to sell our 2006 Marathon XLII. It’s in excellent condition with all maintenance receipts and lots of upgrades. e-mail me if you’re interested.
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