Marathon incorporates two 4,000-watt sine wave inverters into every coach. These custom-programmable inverters also charge the high capacity AGM house batteries. Inverter by-pass switches are also included as a backup in the unlikely event of an inverter failure. Each coach is equipped with a 270-amp 24-volt alternator dedicated to the house batteries. A separate 100-amp alternator / charger is responsible for the chassis batteries. This combination of technology is designed to allow operation of two air conditioners with no 110-volt supply for a limited time. The generator auto start feature allows the generator to automatically start if the battery voltage drops below a predetermined level.

An extremely important consideration for the prospective coach owner is a manufacturer's adherence to fire, life, and safety codes developed by ANSI (American National Standards Institute). The state of Oregon requires strict adherence to these codes to ensure safety and reliability of consumer products in this class. States that currently have no agency to enforce these important codes include: Alabama, Florida, Illinois, Oklahoma, Indiana, and others. Marathon uses NO stranded wire or "boat" cable, which violates these important safety codes and poses a potential fire hazard. Marathon also incorporates the use of WAGO connectors for a slip-proof connection rather than wrapping wire around terminals and fastening with screws. This technology was developed for the locomotive industry to eliminate the need for constant checking and tightening of terminals due to normal vibration.

Marathon uses a Koehler 20 kw diesel generator with an exclusive four-year warranty for those units installed in a Marathon Coach. The generator is mounted on four airbags and housed in an insulated compartment that virtually eliminates noise and vibration. The separate dedicated battery is certainly a more reliable back-up power source for starting. Service is a breeze with the locking slide-out frame.

Air conditioning and heating system

Marathon offers a variety of air conditioning options. Each coach is equipped with three (four on H3-45 models) roof mounted air-conditioning units operated by zone controlled programmable SMX touch pads. Several air-distribution options are available to fit specific customer needs. Each coach is equipped with a Hydronic heating system with zone-controlled heat exchangers distributed throughout the coach. In addition, 110-volt electric toekick heaters are placed in the galley, bath, and bedroom areas. Heat pumps are incorporated into the air conditioning systems also. While some would consider this arrangement "overkill", flexibility is an important consideration to Marathon.

Plumbing system

The plumbing system on a Marathon Coach must also meet the coding requirements that ensure a safe and reliable system. Each coach is equipped with separate fresh, gray, and sewer holding tanks. While this requires more labor, the result is a more sanitary environment over a combined gray and sewer tank. A heavy-duty, chromed, copper and brass (not plastic) hot- and cold-water manifold system is standard on every Marathon. A single uninterrupted polypropylene water line is dedicated to each separate area of the coach. These lines are far more flexible and more resistant to bursting than copper or plastic lines with crimps, elbows, and tees found in some plumbing systems. In addition, the heated water bay houses an exterior hot / cold water faucet, paper towel dispenser, soap dispenser, disposable rubber glove dispenser, two water filters, gray and sewer tank rinsing systems, electric gray and sewer tank dump valves, and two 10.5 gallon electric water heaters. The patented pre-connected air operated sewer hose also contributes to a more sanitary environment and unparalleled convenience. These water heaters also allow the use of the hydronic heating system and diesel engine to heat water.

Interior design

Marathon Coach utilizes the remarkable abilities of a talented design team composed of experienced draftsmen, engineers, professional interior designers, and conscientious craftspeople. Every cabinet is custom built. The individually scribed cabinets require many more hours, but the end result is an unmatched fit and finish. Beneath the beautiful cabinet exterior are many evidences of time-consuming construction techniques that truly differentiate Marathon Coach from all other converters. Cabinets are constructed with an abundance of wood screws and other reinforcements rather than an over-abundance of staples and glue hidden by the exterior covering. The result is strength and stability, reducing squeaks and rattles and increasing the overall quality. Cabinet and closet doors open on European hinges rather than less expensive piano hinges and are finished with the same cabinet covering on both sides and edges. All cabinets and closets are completely lined with a fabric liner for better insulation. All drawers are properly installed on full extension ball bearing glides with a positive latch. Sofas are custom built in-house around the needs of clients who have the highest expectations with regard to form and function.

Breathtaking interiors created by our interior designers incorporate a variety of the highest quality and most exquisite fabric selections, floor coverings, lighting combinations, faucet fixtures, and ceiling treatment options available in the industry. The décor of each coach is unique, with a personality of its own.

Marathon has developed numerous standard floorplans, and specializes in custom designing around specific customer requests. To receive additional information on standard floorplans, specifications, optional equipment and other features not discussed, contact Phil Cornelius at 800-234-9991 ext. 161 or click here to email any requests.

Due to continual product improvements, stated features and comparisons are subject to change.