Main difference in a 1998 premier and a concourse

[Flame]

I just bought a 1998 concourse and was wondering the difference between it and a premier?? Did they make them both in 1998? where could I find what all options were available in 1998 and maybe production numbers. Just want to learn all I can about them.

[b6fischer]

Flame,
The basic differences in my view are the Premiere has rectangular windows, a smaller kitchen base cabinet, and various interior downgrades. It was introduced as a more affordable option to the Concourse but keep in mind buyers could upgrade with many options so you'll find lots of variations.

Of course pour through all the listings on this site and also join the Yahoo Chinook Owners group (mainly for the files section).

Here are Two additional places for you to learn more.

1.
http://chinookconcourse.tumblr.com
I bought a 1997 Concourse and blogged about the purchase, upgrades, maintenance, and use during my first 2 years. On the left bar click past posts to easily view what I did and experienced. Some things you too will certainly want to check. There are also links to several things including a 186 page PDF of all the Chinook models, features, and options.

2. Google "Tincan tourist Chinook" for a good overview of Chinook offeringd through the years.

Have fun. You'll find a good pool of knowledge here and folks who love their Chinooks. Everything from economy minded DIY folks to those who are willing to invest to acheive a desired result.

[kdarling]

Welcome! Check out the links in this post:

viewtopic.php?f=13&t=516&p=3870#p3870

As for the extras that a 1998 Concourse came with over a stock Premier, here's a Chinook document:

Of course, we all find the phone jack option to be humorous these days

[Flame]

Thanks so much everyone!! I printed that list out just to keep in my file.

[Blue~Go]

If you go to the Reference section and look at the 1998 Chinook Manual, there is a page near the end of the document that outlines the major differences. There are some things not mentioned in the official paperwork (for natural reasons) such as the windows are stick framed vs. plywood surrounded, etc.

[Chinookers]

Bear in mind that some Premiers (my 2003 model included) were equipped with several upgrades from the get-go. Options were not restricted to just those shown below. For example mine came with a heavy duty aluminum "Baja" roof rack (a $5K option).



Here are the base specs for the 2003 model:



Two aspects that I happen to like about the Premier: (1) it's a little bit lighter (2) the aesthetic of rectangular windows.

Of course by now. I'm guessing most every Chinook has been modified or upgraded in some way or another.

[Blue~Go]

That said though, I think the 1998 Premiers were much less likely to have the "nearly Concourse" fancy stuff than the mid-2000's ones. By then they were basically Concourses in many cases. In 1998 I think it was more clear cut.