Good Sam Roadside Assistance

[Fratto]

I was stuck on the side of the highway with the transmission stuck in 1st gear. Worked with Prevost Pass who hooked me up with the only towing service that Prevost Fort Worth would recommend / use.

After the tow, I called Good Sam to find out how to get reimbursed. They reminded me that I should have called them first. Said that I could submit an application for reimbursement. So I did.

Crickets for some time then got a letter saying I was denied because I did not call them first. Called customer service four times since then. Explained the situation, said that I would accept a partial reimbursement if that dollar amount did not match their expectations. I understand that you wanted me to call first but there was really only one choice ... Each time they said that a claims person would call me and discuss this. Never did. Today I called again and they said that it was denied and case was closed and could not be re-opened. I asked why I never received a call and was told that "they had no reason to call you".

So, I need to decide if I want to keep the Good Sam roadside assistance. Who are you using for assistance that you trust to tow your bus and actually treat you like a person and not a number ... they have no reason to call you...

[wjohnson720]

If you don't mind sharing, how much did the tow cost?

Also, what was wrong with the transmission. I have a 1995 CC (probably not coach specific, perhaps more age specific) - wondering if I can fix something proactively to prevent the same problem.

To answer your question, I use Progressive road side assistance as part of my insurance. Roadside breakdown is my biggest worry . . .

[bussphart]

FYI...
I had to have a tow a few years back and I also Had Good Sams. I called and told them were I was at and needed a tow that can handle a Greyhound Bus, not to send a 3/4 ton truck to tow.
After waiting for 2+ hours (tow truck was 50 miles away). A Big Heavy Duty wrecker showed up....after him looking over the rig and trying to figure how to hook it up, I dismissed him.
I then called a recommended tow company from Stewart Stevenson. I called them and two hours later, he showed up (same size/type wrecker). He hooked up and made the tow to SS for repairs.
When I got back home, I wrote a letter to GS explaining how the first wrecker driver didn't know what he was doing.
After about two weeks, I got reimbursed the entire amount....

[Fratto]

Bill, the tow was $780.00 for 17 miles. The transmission failure was due to a speed sensor on the transmission. In and out in a day.

Bussphart: That is what I am afraid of, that anyone that Good Sam would call would not be capable. The guy that towed me said that he goes out all of the time after someone was called, looked at the bus and decided not to tow it. Are you still using GS or did you change to someone else?

[PrevostNewbie]

Hi Bill, for sure pull that stainless plate that hangs down in the front under the Bumper. Mine was damaged in my initial Tow back in September. Watching that whole experience and seeing my Prize possession getting yanked around was something unsettling.

[Pete]

I have had Coach Net for years, and have had to use them several times. The best investment you can make for these buses. They have several plans to suit most any owner. They have always sent the proper size equipment every time I have needed a tow, or a tire change. Some time they have difficulty finding the proper tire brand, but that is the only issue I have had. I highly recommend them.

[PrevostNewbie]

The other thing I would be careful of is pulling the axels. The tow truck driver pulled half the bolts off then decided to check and see if he has a cover. He didn't so that requires a new seal now. Disconnecting the driveshaft is much easier and less work. Just have to be careful with the parts, as this area is covered in road grime and dirt.

[bussphart]

Mark, I kept GS for a few more years, then last year I switched to FMCA...Don't know if they're better; worse or the same...Hope I never have to use them or anyone else. Just peace of mind in case I do!
Mike

[Fratto]

Thanks. I will look into Coach Net. FYI, they pulled an axle on mine. Had the right caps and used a new seal when they put it back in. He liked that more than pulling the drive shaft.

The guy that towed it really took his time and was very careful. Made sure he was not damaging anything and used padding to keep the air hose off of the finish. He was relieved not to see any AC condensing units under the front. Apparently they can be tough to deal with. That comment alone let me know that this was not his first bus.

[PrevostNewbie]

My AAA has a $500.00 Cap for about $18.00 a month.

[Fratto]

Talked to Coachnet and the customer service was excellent. Much better than Good Sam. The quote was Prevost specific so I assume that they are more knowledgeable.

Called Good Sam to cancel and they didn't even ask why.

Goodby Good Sam!

[WinterStorm]

Hi Mark, We’ve heard good things about CoachNet...and will be signing up with them in end-March/early-April. If you don’t mind us asking - how were their membership rates compared to Good Sam? And, does CoachNet have a bigger allowance for towing costs?
Thank you,

[Pete]

I have had to call Coach Net for a tow twice. One to pull me back because my drive wheels were stuck in the mud. They sent a BIG Wrecker who pulled the coach back about 10 ft. The charge ZERO. The second time while we were in Canada, we got diesel with algae in it. We were towed about 15 miles to a repair shop. The driver knew exactly what to do...pulled the axles, capped the hubs so we would not loose the oil, attached air line, made the tow, The charge ZERO. I also have called them about 3 times for tire problems.....ZERO cost.
You must tell them that you are a BUS, and to send the proper equipment. They also will have a record of the type of coach you have.

[Fratto]

That is consistent with their language "No mileage or dollar amount limits – no out of pocket expense when towing your disabled vehicle to the nearest qualified repair facility." I would think that the only point of conversation would be what is a "qualified repair facility".

See quote below. I declined the hazard protection. I may regret it, but seems like $370 per year is more prepaid expense than insurance.

My Original Quote:
Rates for one year of the Premier Coach is $249.00 for the 1st year and $169.00 for the renewal rate, again this covers any vehicle you and your wife drive (excluding commercial vehicles and antique cars)


Bundle rate for the Premier roadside assistance and Preferred hazard protection for the 1st year is $609.00, thats $239.00 for the roadside and $370.00 for the hazard protection.


You may choose to bundle services for up to 5 years, providing greater savings.

I would think that the only point of conversation would be what is a "qualified repair facility".

[WinterStorm]

Thank you, Mark (and, everyone)! Tend to agree about the Hazard protection. Otherwise, very affordable.