The MAN KAT range encompasses some of the toughest trucks on God’s green earth. This is why you need a MAN KAT camper if you want an extreme motorhome. But there are some things that you need to account for while picking out a MAN KAT Camper. The following piece tells it all:
Found a MAN KAT camper that you’re interested in buying? Not so fast. Check out what you need to look for:
The MAN KAT comes with a diesel V8 with varying horsepower figures based on the number of axles you get. So, a MAN KAT1 8x8 camper would have 360 hp, while a 4x4 would come with 256 hp. The standard transmission is a 16-speed manual which comes with 2 reverse gears.
Since we’re talking about overlanding here, it should be obvious that the more the wheels, the better traction you’re going to get. However, budget and fuel consumption also come in play here. Most people will recommend you to get a MAN KAT 6x6 camper to get the best deal.
The MAN KAT is available with three configurations – you can choose between two, three, and four axles. While picking more axles should make you more confident on the trail due to the better weight distribution and higher payload capacity, the maintenance costs should increase as well.
Inspecting the body of this truck should be a difficult task considering that even the 4x4 version is massive. However, you should still inspect it for any sort of rust, or corrosion. If it is an already converted camper, do check the shocks as well, since overloading can damage them.
You need to look at the accident history and looking at the truck’s overhang for damage is also recommended. Also, remember that if you’re not getting a converted camper, you can find all different types of attachments on these trucks such as truck beds, dumpers, cranes, etc.
When you take the truck for a spin, take it over some bumps to see the condition of the suspension system. Observe for any type of weird noises and do look at how sharp the steering is. The brakes need to work and so does the drivetrain.
These trucks aren’t really considered to be palaces when you get inside their cabins. However, it shouldn’t hurt to check if everything works or not and nothing is broken.
Because these trucks are decades old, it isn’t uncommon for them to come with some issues. For example, you could find one with transmission problems. Other than that, some of these trucks could come with a damaged axle or two due to overloading.
The way to go about this is to inquire about the service history of each truck. If you’re not a gearhead, you are recommended to take a mechanic along with you so that they can inspect the truck. It’ll cost you but it’ll also save you thousands of dollars in the long run.
Because it is a large and capable truck, the MAN KAT doesn’t lose its value that easily. So, if you’re planning on getting a MAN KAT luxury expedition camper, you should be spending at least $30k to get a decent model.
If you’re looking for a MAN KAT camper but aren’t sure of how much you should be paying, check out the listings at Expeditonmeister here: https://expeditionmeister.com/expedition-overland-for-sale/pattern,man
Know all about the MAN KAT’s history here.
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