Automatic Ford Transit motorhome

[E-bmw]

Just after some advice/hints on the above.

I have a motorhome & due to retirement will shortly be upgrading.

There are 2 that fit our criteria, one is the above & the other is the more common Boxer based manual.

I have always had an aversion to autos & what with stories we see regularly about auto/mechatronics etc failures I am seeking the experiences of the PH experts on whether this combination is actually worth considering and any benefits/pitfalls etc.

[stevieturbo]

Are they proper autos or dual clutch ? or an automated manual ?

[E-bmw]

stevieturbo said:

Are they proper autos or dual clutch ? or an automated manual ?

Sorry, I actually don't know, just that they are advertised as being an automatic.

[stevieturbo]

I would probably prefer a full auto if they exist, then dual clutch, and least an automated manual.

That said, I think automated manuals are more common on the larger stuff ? Even HGV's use such a system ?

I think the Iveco's do an 8 speed which is based on the well tried and tested ZF8HP box.

[Polome]

I recently sold my 3 year old Rollerteam. Transit based (120hp diesel) with 6 speed auto box. Very easy to drive , manoeuvring in tight spots and controlling in heavy city traffic work was a doddle. No ridding the clutch with jerky takeoffs. The ford unit was very smooth , especially when pulling away from lights giving brisk acceleration to easily keep up with regular traffic. I’m used to fast changing PDK’s but never found the ford lacking. The Fiat auto ( I think 9 speed) is reportedly better but if I were buying again it’s the Transit/Ford I’d be getting. My two mates have manual vans and they look awkward and clumsy when driving in comparison. Best test drive and find out for yourself…you’ll be pleasantly surprised. Good luck wu[ith choice.

[E-bmw]

Polome said:

I recently sold my 3 year old Rollerteam. Transit based (120hp diesel) with 6 speed auto box. Very easy to drive , manoeuvring in tight spots and controlling in heavy city traffic work was a doddle. No ridding the clutch with jerky takeoffs. The ford unit was very smooth , especially when pulling away from lights giving brisk acceleration to easily keep up with regular traffic. I’m used to fast changing PDK’s but never found the ford lacking. The Fiat auto ( I think 9 speed) is reportedly better but if I were buying again it’s the Transit/Ford I’d be getting. My two mates have manual vans and they look awkward and clumsy when driving in comparison. Best test drive and find out for yourself…you’ll be pleasantly surprised. Good luck wu[ith choice.

Thanks for that, a bit of an insight there, the driving side I will make my mind up if it comes to it, I am more thinking at the moment, is there any mechanical issues with them long term/high mileage.

[Polome]

I bought the Rollerteam from a couple that did private rentals with six vans. Did all his own maintenance in a barn and to be honest the vans were over maintained , oil change every six months regardless etc. He told me the ford unit gave no bother apart from early model injectors which didn’t affect mine. Mines was 18 month old with 20k renter miles when I bought it and still drove like new. I only did 2k and sold after 18 months because of lack of use but had no problems. The seller was gradually changing his fleet to autos as he found them more reliable therefore cheaper in long term. Only hearsay but thought I’d add it for you. Cheers

[E-bmw]

Polome said:

I bought the Rollerteam from a couple that did private rentals with six vans. Did all his own maintenance in a barn and to be honest the vans were over maintained , oil change every six months regardless etc. He told me the ford unit gave no bother apart from early model injectors which didn’t affect mine. Mines was 18 month old with 20k renter miles when I bought it and still drove like new. I only did 2k and sold after 18 months because of lack of use but had no problems. The seller was gradually changing his fleet to autos as he found them more reliable therefore cheaper in long term. Only hearsay but thought I’d add it for you. Cheers

Worth passing on, none the less, thanks for that.