Moving from an E-350 chassis to a MB chassis

[Raxel7851]

We’re thinking of moving from our MW22M on the Ford E-350 chassis to either a View or the Vita. Would like any thoughts from people who have made that move. I know there are pluses and minuses with it, but it would be nice having a variety of thoughts so we can make a better decision. As we get a little older it seems that the MB set up is a little easier to handle. Especially with the hydraulic leveling jacks and the “van” like driving feel.

[Eagle5]

Hi Ron and Cindy,
I have never regretted my decision to buy a 22M over these last four-plus years. With your 2021, you should have about 2,100 pounds of cargo-carrying capacity; is that correct? What is the Mercedes Benz cargo-carrying capacity? Is there any way you could rent a Mercedes Benz first to give it a try?
I keep those plastic honeycomb blocks handy and drive-up on them to keep things on the level.
Thanks, Eagle5

[Raxel7851]

My Friend Mr. Eagle. You always keep me grounded. Other than the inside layout of the Vita, the 22M does check off more boxes. Especially on the outside storage. That huge storage compartment on the rear driver’s side is amazing. We just turned 9500 miles at the end of last year. The cargo carrying capacity of the E-350 is at least twice that of the MB. And the 7.3L engine is a beast.

[Eagle5]

Hi again Ron & Cindy,
Thank you for your kind words.
I do use the items below when leveling. I keep the small two-directional level stored in my over-sink cabinet, and I just temporarily place it on my sink countertop for a quick level-check.
I feel that the Minnie Winnie 22M is such a well-established design that there are fewer problems with it. I also believe that the cabinetry (being box-like and not curved) is stronger.
Thanks, Eagle5
Camco Camper / RV T Level - Features Front to Back / Side to Side RV Leveling
Tri-Lynx 00015 Lynx Levelers - 10 Pack , Orange

[wahoonc]

I would be hard-pressed to give up the maintainability of the Ford for an MB. We have two MB vans at work that seem to love the attention they get at the local shop. I can't speak to the comfort of the cabs. I do know that the E-350/450 cab can be a bit cramped, especially on the passenger's side. I have an E-450 Coachmen Concord 300DS and love everything about it. However, we needed more room and carrying capacity to allow for 3+ adults and a dog. My 84-year-old MIL is traveling with us and the Concord doesn't have a second suitable bed. So we have "upgraded" to our Itasca Meridian 34.

I know that most of the E-based motorhomes have a pretty generous CCC compared to the MB.

Aaron