Most Common Problems with Winnebago LeSharo (Solution Added)
The Winnebago LeSharo was discontinued after the 1992 model year. RVs were developed in 1983 with improved fuel economy. In the present market, there is still a significant demand for used LeSharo.
The trailers, on the other hand, have a few flaws. These are locked brake drums, low height, transmission bearing failure and jamming, underpowered engine, and some others.
In this post, I’ll go through some of the most prevalent Winnebago LeSharo problems. You may obtain a comprehensive idea by looking at the table below.
Problems and Solutions at a Glance:
| Problems with Winnebago LeSharo | Solutions |
| Locked Brake Drum | Tap forcefully or change them |
| Low Roof Height | Get the Rialta model |
| Underpowered Engine | Replace the timing belt and water pump |
| Transmission Bearing Failure | Install and lubricate steel bearings |
| Transmission Stuck in Gear | Inspect the fuse and grounding |
| Coolant Pipe Overheating | Replace every two years |
| Undercarriage Rust | Scrape off the rust and apply paint |
7 Common Problems with Winnebago LeSharo and the Solutions
Since the trailers are very old, people face more problems now, than in the earlier days. These problems are:
1. Locked Brake Drum
The Winnebago LeSharo’s brake drums have been known to lock up under various conditions. As a result, the wheel cylinders become stuck.
If this occurs, the cylinders are unable to relax after hitting the brakes. This is a regular problem with earlier LeSharo models, particularly the first generation.
The Fix:
You must tap on the brake drums to resolve the problem. Hit around the circumference with anything heavy, such as a hammer. The force will break free the locked brake drum.
You should also consider replacing the brake drums. If you don’t adjust it after the temporary solution, it might get permanently jammed.
2. Low Roof Height
The roof of the Winnebago LeSharo is quite low. I have terrible news for you if you are taller than 5 feet 8 inches. You’ll have to keep your head down inside all the time.
It’s also difficult to get into the driver’s seat. To get into and out of the driver’s seat, you must duck beneath the air conditioner unit. The rooftop electric unit may collide with your head.
The Fix:
The roofing of the LeSharo travel van cannot be raised. It is beneficial if you are less than 5 feet 8 inches tall. Otherwise, while walking and standing, you must bend your body slightly.
If you don’t want to deal with this issue, you should disregard the travel van. If you still want to buy a Winnebago LeSharo, consider the Rialta.
With the Rialta model, Winnebago reintroduced the LeSharo design. These feature a raised rooftop and look a lot like the LeSharos.
3. Underpowered Engine
The stock engine that has been installed in the Winnebago LeSharo does not have enough power. The power and weight ratio of the vehicle are not up to the standards.
As a result, the coach is susceptible to many issues. Overheating and transmission problems are the most encountered issues by many old users of the LeSharo.
The Fix:
You may reduce engine problems by regularly maintaining the health of LeSharo’s engine. I also recommend that you change the timing belt every 60,000 miles.
It is also advised that the water pump be replaced every 75,000 miles. Even after upgrading these components, the engine may occasionally fail. As a result, replacing the engine appears to be the best alternative.
If you possess an older LeSharo, you should upgrade the engine. For more power, you can combine the motor and the transaxle utilized in the travel van.
4. Transmission Bearing Failure
Winnebago LeSharo’s 4 gear manual transaxle has a serious problem. The rear transmission bearings must be lubricated regularly. Failure to provide adequate lubrication leads to excessive wear.
These faulty bearings have a significant impact on the transmission system. Shifting gears becomes sluggish and rough. This problem can affect any LeSharo model.
The Fix:
If you use your RV frequently, I advise that you lubricate the transmission bearings each week. I will also recommend that you replace the old ones with steel ones.
The pressure is too tremendous for the plastic ones that came with the coach. Every 35,000 miles, you should also replace the new steel bearings.
You should also examine the differential tank and refill the transmission oil as necessary.
5. Transmission Stuck in Gear
If there is an issue with the transmission system, the transmission light will illuminate. As a result, the gear will become stuck in the third gear.
This issue is caused mostly by a blown fuse. Poor grounding and fuse connections are also responsible for the problem.
The Fix:
To begin, check the transmission fuse in the fuse panel. It is positioned on the driver’s side underneath the dashboard. Wipe the fuse and the connections properly.
Examine the ground connection as well. Also, clean the transmission module’s leads. It’s beneath the hood on the driver’s side front. The single lead after the connection may corrode as well. If it is faulty, repair it.
6. Coolant Pipe Overheating
The engine of the Winnebago LeSharo is conditioned by a cooling system. However, due to high tension, the pipe becomes hot. As a result, the coolant fails to reduce the engine’s temperature.
Coolant from the cylinder head is utilized to keep the engine oil chilled. This also causes the hose to get very hot.
The Fix:
The coolant pipe degrades rapidly. Replace the coolant pipe every four to five years for a lasting solution. If you use your travel van frequently, replace it every two years.
Redirect the coolant pipes to the engine oil cooler as well. In this manner, the cooler will help lower the temperature of the engine oil.
7. Undercarriage Rust
Because all Winnebago LeSharos are at least 30 years old, their undercarriages are prone to corrosion. The structure may potentially delaminate beneath the rear of the travel van.
If you are planning to buy a used one with a lot of rust, don’t do it.
The Fix:
The rust on the undercarriage can be repaired very easily. If the amount is small, scrape the rust away with a strong wire brush.
You should consider painting the frame to protect it. Painting with rust-inhibiting paint may also be effective.
What Majority of the Users Feel?
Although the Winnebago RVs are very old, people are still looking forward to buying used ones. These RVs are considered to be vintage quality. The company has got 4.2 out of 5 on the RV Insider website.
The transmission of the RV has given many users a headache. Other than that and some other small issues, the LeSharo is a great choice.
Final Thoughts
If you want to steer clear of the most common problems that I have mentioned, the magic word is “maintenance”.
Yes, proper servicing and maintenance can enhance the lifespan of your RV. Follow my instructions if you face any of the problems. I wish you great journeys with your LeSharo.
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