Subi & The 5

Our Winnebago View 24D – Our Initial Thoughts

As with most RVs, there are things you love, things you don’t love, and things you can accept. We have owned our new Class C – Winnebago View 24D for a short time now and have only been out camping in it twice (2 shake down trips) but we have a list of our initial thoughts of the rig. We made a set of modifications and upgrades both when we initially purchased the motorhome and then again after each of our shake down trips.  Of course some of these initial thoughts will change over time as we spend more time in the motorhome.

Our list is divided into 3 sections, one for the things we love, a second for the things we aren’t sure about yet and can go either way, and third, those things we just don’t love.

Note that our 2019 Winnebago View is a 2018 Sprinter Chassis with a 2019 Winnebago coach.

List 1 – Things We Love

Small and Compact – The rig is small and compact which means it is easy to drive and maneuver, easy to park in campsites, etc.  It opens up a whole new set of campgrounds where we can camp and allows us to explore areas that were more awkward in a big rig. Ferry fares should be less expensive due to the shorter length. It also means we spend less time loading and unloading when setting out on a trip or returning home.

Great fuel mileage – Who doesn’t love spending less on fuel!

Onan Diesel Generator – We prefer diesel to LP for a generator simply because we find that filling LP is sometimes a chore with trying to find LP for sale (at a decent price) and especially finding an LP filling qualified employee at work at the time we want to fill.

Cargo Carrying Capacity CCC – The CCC for this motorhome is 1,077 lbs and many rigs of a similar size have much less capacity.

Water Pump switch in bathroom and above fridge – This makes it easy to access the water pump switch when needed.

Propane turn on/off in 2 locations – The on/off switch for the propane is both above the fridge on the inside and an additional switch is outside in the basement compartment by the propane tank.  This makes it very handy for turning the propane on or off as either one can be used.

Zamp Solar Controller mount location – The controller is mounted above the refrigerator therefore we can watch the controller in action from bed – how cool is that? My husband loves waking up at sunrise and monitoring how much the batteries are charging!!

List 2 – Things In The Middle

Truma Water Heater – The Truma heats up quickly and works great but how much more propane are we going to be going through and how much time will we be spending filling up with more propane?  The jury is still out on this one, it could go either way, so we will probably love it or we will hate it.  Right now we are loving it!

Norcold Refridgerator DC 0061-RH – This fridge is a 2-way fridge, only AC or DC but Winnebago hooked it up to only work on DC.  This also means, since it is a 2 way, it does not work on propane.  It is advertised as not requiring much power to operate but our initial experience was that it has roughly a 50% duty cycle and draws in excess of 5 amps when running.  We found that while boondocking/dry camping the fridge drew down the (cheap) house batteries over night.  Having a DC fridge means that when boondocking and/or dry camping you need lots of battery capacity and you need to pay careful attention to your batteries’ state of charge to ensure your fridge keeps working and you don’t harm the stock batteries by draining them.

MobileEye – Collision Avoidance System – This system is part of the chassis and warns the driver about nearby potential objects or veering out of your lane.  We haven’t really gotten a good feel for it yet to determine if this is going to be helpful but logically speaking, more eyes on the road is always a good thing.

Jensen Radio in coach – The remote for the coach radio only works if you stand in front of it which severly limits the usefullness of the remote. The USB in the Jensen doesn’t seem to output to the TV.  Again, we just need to spend more time in the coach to determine if this radio is a benefit to us or not – so far we have found it inconvenient and of little actual use.

Zamp Solar Controller – The controller is a very basic system and we have thought about potentially upgrading it to a better controller to include more customization and settings for battery types including charging profiles which would allow for more refined charging.  We replaced the stock house batteries with LiFePO4 batteries but aren’t able to see/change what the charging profile is.  We can only select “battery type” and not the actual parameters of the charging stages.

Skylight – This wonderful large skylight allows lots of light and fresh air in the coach when needed but it can also be bad when the wind quickly picks up since it has such a large surface.  It could potentially provide a security risk since it is so large. Additionally, there is both a screen pull and a shade pull that can be used.  The screen seems quite flimsy and it is difficult to shut the accordion style screen cleanly and always bunches. We know this is going to be a continued problem.

Murphy Bed – Yes, the jury is still out on the Murphy Bed. It seems like a great idea and so far we have found the bed comfortable.  The mattress is divided into 2 sections (a small upper section at the head of the bed and the larger lower section) which we have found quite cumbersome when opening and closing as the 2 mattress sections rub up against it each and always need realigning. You also can’t put an additional topper or mattress pad on since the extra thickness interferes with the closing at the top. There is no strap for tying the bedding down when closing the Murphy Bed therefore you have to be quite careful that the bedding does not fall between the 2 mattresses. (Something we will be adding). The Murphy Bed sits higher than most beds which can be either a plus or a minus. Short people may find this a problem getting in and out of it.

List 3 – Things We Don’t Love

Riverpark Xite Infotainment System – The software is quite flaky and the Rand McNally GPS software is cumbersome (at best) to use and very slow to react.  The rear camera software is slow to react when putting the vehicle in reverse.  Sometimes the NAVI button (which should display the Rand McNally GPS software) displays the Media app. Many times the MENU button won’t display anything and the same with the NAVI button.  The system will freeze and eventually reboot. It basically cannot be depended on to work.  Replacing the system requires a different backup camera to be installed since supposedly the Xite backup camera only works with the Xite Infotainment system.  We have updated the software on the SD card but it is still very frustrating to actually use this system.  I’m not sure we can live with this flaky system. We see either a new system in our future or a new RV!

MaxxAir Roof Vent in bathroom – This vent allows very little air to get through and it must be turned on (one speed only) to really get some ventilation. We prefer the Fantastic fans which allow quite a bit of air to come through without the fan on and it also provides a range of speeds. This will probably be an upgrade one day.

Insignia 32″ TV – The picture quality on the TV is acceptable but the lack of support for playing a movie on an external USB device is quite disappointing considering this is a TV made in 2018!  We take and make lots of videos and we cannot play the videos nor any music through our TV (except we made a mod to allow it).

Inverter – 1,000 Watt – This RV could use a bigger inverter. Again, another mod for the future is to replace this inverter with a 2,000 Watt inverter.

Mercedes Chassis 3500 Driver and Passenger Seats – The seats seem taller than the 2500 chassis seats even in lowest position.  We guess that is why the new and improved 2019 Sprinter 3500 chassis now has extensions on the seats?

Cheapo mini blinds in kitchen and bathroom – We are sure these won’t last long and will be all crinkly and bendy just like when you lived in a dorm or your first apartment.  But new blinds/window coverings are an easy fix.

No transfer switch for the generator – We must go outside to plug the shore cable into the generator outlet. This is archaic and no motorhome with a generator should come without an automatic transfer switch!  It is something we can, and will, fix over time.  We see that the 2020 Winnebago Views have this feature now. Yay! We have added a transfer switch now.

Final Thoughts

We have seen a few previews of the new 2019 Sprinter Chassis and the 2020 Winnebago View 24D. Winnebago has added some much needed changes that would have cut down our list of mods immensely. BUT if we had not purchased at this time then our planned trip in a few weeks might be put on hold. Stay tuned. We are ready for a big shake down trip. Let’s hope it holds together!!

30 comments

  1. Like to hear how the “shake down” went. I’m thinking of buying a used 24D and from what I’ve read from this article it’d have to be 2019 or later.

  2. Overall I would say the shake down was a success. The modifications we had made worked well and addressed a number of the shortcomings we found with the 24D as delivered. We were quite happy with the floor plan and there was adequate storage or our style of camping.

    Many of the serious shortcomings of 2019 24D have been addressed in the 2020 model (2019 Mercedes Chassis). In particular:
    – The very poor infotainment system is replaced by a system that actually works
    – There is an option for more solar panels which we feel are essential
    – The inverter is 2kw vs 1kw which provides much more flexible/useable AC power
    – There is an option for LiFePO batteries which we feel are essential if you intend to do much boondocking.
    – There is an automatic transfer switch so you don’t have to manually connect the shore power cord to the generator every time you want to use the generator.

    In summary we like our 24D but feel that Winnebago cheaped out on several of the sub-systems in the 24D. Fortunately they have addressed most, if not all, of the most annoying shortcomings in the 2020 model and I would recommend the 2020 model especially if you intend to do any extensive boondocking. On the other hand if you don’t plan do much boondocking and can tolerate the flakey infotainment system, the stock 2019 model would probably work fine.

    Hope that helps,
    Norm

    1. Thanks for the information. We are considering purchasing a sprinter of some kind in a few months.
      I have been reading as much as possible and found that Winnebago could possibly be the best fit for us.
      This is ironing out some of the kinks. I won’t to pull a car hauler and won’t to be sure of it’s capability.

      1. Hi Rosy,

        We tow a Subaru Crosstrek which is quite a light AWD car (~3,100 lbs). Even with a car this light
        the towing capability is marginal in my estimation. On the level and on moderate hills it is OK
        but on the steeper grades 6+% we are down to about 40 mph.

        If you want to tow a car hauler trailer with a car on/in it I think you would seriously tax
        the Sprinter’s engine and transmission and would likely be frustrated with the performance
        on the steeper grades.

        On the other hand, if you were to flat tow a *very* light 2WD car, like for instance a
        Chevy Spark, it would likely be acceptible.

        Hope that helps,
        Norm

    1. Hi Cathy,

      Thanks for asking. We currently do not have an email subscription list built into the blog. I would just recommend checking back weekly for new posts. Sorry. If we implement it in the future we will let you know.

      Safe travels!
      Norm and Lisa

  3. Im confused. If you are hookup to shore power why would you needthe generator. I add two diehard coach batery and my 32 inch tv and light run for 3 day before starting generator. I have a 2006 winnebage view. Witn 98000 mile

    1. Hi Carl,

      For sure you don’t need to run your generator if you are hooked up to shore power.

      The point I was trying to make is that if shore power is not available and you
      need to start the generator you have to go outside and move the power cord to the
      generator output socket. This is not much fun at night or in the rain – however
      an automatic transfer switch, like most RV’s have, makes the switch for you. All
      you have to do is start the generator and you are back in business.

      With your 2006 View you have a 2-way fridge so you consume very little battery
      power when you are boondocking especially over night because your fridge is
      running on propane. However, with a 2019 View like we have you get a DC-only
      (no propane) fridge which consumes considerable battery power for 24 hours
      each and every day. Your two batteries would definitely not power a 2019 View
      for three days without running the generator or having a considerable amount of
      solar power input.

      Hope that clarifies what I was trying to say about the lack of an automatic transfer
      switch an the serious issue of DC power management for a 2019 Vies.

      Cheers,
      Norm

  4. How much room is there with the slides in? Can you go to the back if someone is in the aisle?
    Thanks

    1. Hi Tom,

      There is enough for one person to walk to the back, sit on the couch, open the fridge part way, eat at the dinette, use the restroom, etc. Two people can sit on the couch and on the dinette (if not more). But it is probably best if you walk single file to the back. The width is probably around 12″ with the slide in, maybe a bit more. And, yes, you can squeeze by someone else if they are standing in the kitchen working with the slide in but it is a tight squeeze and it helps if you are a smaller person. Otherwise the person standing can just move over some to the dinette or couch. We do it all the time when stopped quickly for lunch breaks. Hope that answers your question. Happy travels wherever you may go.

  5. Wife and I downsized from a 40′ DP to our 2019 24D Navion. Love the move – no regrets! My wife will actually drive the Navion AND feel comfortable doing so. We tow a 2019 Ford Fiesta with automatic trans. Barely know it’s there unless we hit a really steep grade. Appreciate your list of mods – will start doing some soon. Safe travels!

    1. Thank you! We agree. We absolutely loved our 40′ Class A but it was time to downsize after many years on the road. And us too, no regrets. It has opened up the door to so many more campgrounds and locations with easy access. Safe travels to you too and enjoy!!

  6. We own the 24d and have made numerous trips. The infotainment system and rear Jensen is disappointing. The Murphy Bed has been great allowing for a great floorplan. We have added a 3″ topper with no issue closing. We added the auto transfer switch, $81 part, not difficult to install. Fridge has not been an issue with our batteries when self contained as the solar so far works better than expected. Water heater, awesome, no concern with propane usage. Great purchase.

    1. Hi Wayne,

      Thanks for contributing your ipressions and tips. We are especially interested in adding a bed topper. We were concerned that there might be an issue with raising the bed but based on your experience I think we will give it a try. Adding a transfer switch is also very high on our list of “must fix” items.

  7. Thank you for your review! I’ve been looking at the Navion 24D for a while now. This has convinced me more to bite the bullet and down size from our 36’DRV Mobile Suite.

    1. Downsizing opened up a number of camping options for us and made several aspects of travelling and storing much simpler. Of course I would be lying if I said we didn’t miss all the space when cooped up on a spell of rainy days. In our estimation it’s all about compromises, there is no such thing as the perfect RV but we are pleased with the size and floorplan of the 24D. Good luck with your choice and safe travels.

  8. My question yesterday was to find out what features you think absolutely need to be changed in this particular RV and if you would recommend the purchase of a Winnebego View to beginning RV people like my husband and me. This posting, “Our Initial Thoughts,” answers most of my questions and concerns. Thank you.

  9. Hi Guys;
    My question is about the stabilizing jacks on the rear. Do you see a need to upgrade to auto-leveling jacks or do the factory stabilizing jacks work good enough?

    1. Hi Winston,
      It is hard to answer a “good enough” question because it depends on what your personal tolerance is for accepting an off-level RV and how much fiddling you are willing to do when you set up your site on a slope.

      The stabilizers do help stabilize the rocking when walking around inside the RV but do nothing to help level the coach. We do the leveling with plastic leveling blocks under the wheels but I have to admit I *really* miss the days when I could just push a button and the coach was leveled and stabilized in a few seconds.

      Personally, I don’t feel it is worth it to remove the stabilizers and install jacks, much as I would like the convenience, however if the coach didn’t already have the stabilizers I would almost certainly install levelling jacks not stabilizers. Another consideration is the effect that levelling jacks have on your CCC. The View is one of the better Sprinter RVs with respect to CCC but it is still a serious consideration if opting for jacks.

      I guess in summary the stabilizers are OK for stabilizing but if/when we get another RV it *will* have levelling jacks.

  10. Thanks for an awesome review. planning to pull trigger on a new 21 navion 24d tommorrow. this was one on best reviews i read and appreciate it!

    tim

  11. Thanks for the review. We too are considering switching from a 38′ to the 24D. However, was looking for experiences associated with CCC and towing limitations. We have a Lincoln MKX that weighs 4400 pounds which is more than the 4200 pound difference between the GCWR and GVWR. Although we do not plan on towing all the time, we do expect to “need” to do this at times. At the least, figured we would have to go to “chasing” rather than a four-down tow on hills. Interested in your thoughts based on your experience. FYI, we are looking at a 2020 or 2021. Perhaps the new chassis improves towing?

    1. Hi Chris,
      We have found that the View with the 5-speed transmission tows our Subaru Crosstrek OK. It will pull the car up a 6% hill at about 45 mph or so. I manually shift down to keep the revs up which is better for cooling and easier on the transmission. The Crosstrek weighs under 3200lbs so no problem with CCC. I would expect the View to be significantly slower towing your Lincoln. The 7-speed transmission will certainly help smooth out the shifts and help keep the engine in the best perfomance range but on a long grade you will still be limited by the power of the engine. Personally I would not want to tow anything heavier than the Subi but if you are patient and don’t mind really grinding up the hills I suppose it could be possible…

  12. Great stuff..thank you all! Purchased a lightly used 2018 View 24D from my sister in law and have never done any of this before…the adventures begin!
    Not seeing any info on how long the LP generator with a 13 Gal tank will run for…ideas please!
    Thank you all!

    1. Hi Piers,
      Congrats on the purchase, I’m sure you will enjoy the new adventures.

      As for the generator endurance, it depends greatly on how much of a load you place on it but if the load is about 50% or so it will burn about 0.5 gals/hr. At that load you should expect somewhere around 18 hours from a full 13 gal tank (which can only be filled to 80% of the nominal tank capacity).

      Happy Camping!

  13. Hi! We just bought a 2018 View 24D and found your blog. Quick questions:
    Did you make any updates to the nav/infotainment system? Or did you find a replacement you would recommend? I agree that it’s terrible.
    Any suggestions to improve the backup camera? It’s not super helpful! Better than nothing, I suppose.
    Also, Any updates or thoughts on car hauler towing? We have a Subaru Ascent that is about 4500 lbs that we hoped to bring along. Too much? This our first time stepping into the RV world, so any advice would be appreciated!

    Kenny

    1. Hi Kenny,
      Congrats on the View!
      We didn’t swap out the infotainment system but after trying it out for a while we used a Garmin 890RV for nav and pretty well forgot about listening to music on the road. Having said that, the system did save our bacon one time while going through the center of a small city. We got a big red warning about a low underpass and just barely had one last chance to get off that before we would have been stuck on a busy street, unhooking the car and trying to back out in heavy traffic – NOT fun!

      We found the rear view camera OK and kept it on the toad full time while driving.

      We towed a Crosstrek which is a lot lighter than your Ascent. It towed the Crosstrek fine except in the 6% grade hills where we were down at 45mph in the lane with the loaded trucks. I think you would need to have lots of patience towing your Ascent in the mountains, on level roads it would be fine. BTW I guess you will be using a dolly to tow your Ascent since it only comes with a CVT transmission which cannot be towed 4-down. The dolly will also add some weight and can be inconvenient to deal with in some RV parks with limited parking.

      Sorry for the delay in responding, I hope this helps a bit.

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