Alpenlite 5th wheels, 29-31 feet

[Workshop]

I'm considering an Alpenlite in the 29-31 foot range, with 2 slides and rear kitchen. THe Hillcrest and Valhalla models are the two I've been considering. Age would be between late 90' to early 2000's. I know that the company is no longer in business and I have been under the impression that the company built a nice unit.

Does anyone have any experience with either model or Alpenlite 5th wheels in general? How about replacement parts like fenders or minor body parts being available?

Thanks

[450Donn]

IMHO Alpenlite built one of the nicest and heaviest fivers ever. Around here the early 80's fivers are still on the road and look almost as good as the day they rolled off the assembly line. I understand there are some people still offering some parts. Besides that there are still a few places selling used salvaged parts. Most of the components insode the fiver are standard so those items are not an issue.
The only word of caution I can offer is to be sure you have enough truck for the fiver.

[Retire1936]

I have a 1993 29' Rear Kitchen that has been great. I have been in many friends 5th wheels and few of them compare well.

I have thought of "upgrading" but have found that most of the newer 5th Wheels are a little flimsy in comparison.

Dave

[dimberi]

I have a '94 Alpenlite Dreamer, 30 footer. I bought it from a guy about 5 years ago and it has been a great coach. I need to put a new roof on it soon, but other than the normal maintenance, no big problems. However, there is nothing light about it. It weighs about 10K. -- Doug

[Fordiesel250]

We have a 2003 Riveria 29 foot fiver we purchased used in 2006. It is indeed a very well built trailer. I searched for a long time to find one the DW and I would like and we found this one outside of San Antonio Texas. It weighs 10500lbs and we love it.

[steelpony555]

We have a 03 Vahalla and love it. We have put quite a few miles on this one in the 1 1/2 yrs we have owned it. No problems to speak of. I do have the address of a couple of companies out in Ca that are suppose to have bought all the spare parts etc from Western RV when they closed shop. I have not had to use them. Best thing I would think is not to wreck it. The rest of the parts are not any different then most RV's. Because it is an orphan I keep an eye out for compartment doors and such that might interchange. Here is one Welcome to Amack's RVs!
It would be hard to find a unit as well built for the money.

[shipwreck1]

They built a real nice and heavy 5th. Neighbor has one, gorgeous interior!

[Workshop]

Thanks for the replies. Being on the east coast, they are few and far between. Found several on the web but to far away to consider.

I called an owner of a 02 Vahalla that was on the west coast and got his voice mail...luckly he called me back and wanted to know how I got his name and information about his unit, he had sold it 2 years ago....and the listing consignment company was still listing it and all his information. Very nice man, I gave him the link information and he had it removed that day.

Last venture was a 800 mile round trip to look at a Hillcrest that the pictures gave it more justice than it deserved. The dealer said it was a very nice unit so a road trip was due....never believe what they say!

Will possible upgrade the TV and keep what I have for now. Thanks for the replies.