Community Forums

wes1333 · 06-10-2012, 06:21 PM

Hi everyone
My wife and I are shopping for our first 5th wheel. I am just wondering what your thoughts are on the best insulated 5th wheel under $60k is. It will just be for weekend use but I like to stay really cool in the summer months.
Thanks
Wes

TXiceman · 06-10-2012, 06:41 PM

Not under 60K, but the best is Mobile Suites by DRV. Rather than new, you will do a lot better looking at used units in the 4 year old range.

Ken

wes1333 · 06-10-2012, 07:25 PM

So any of the new under 60k with dual ac's won't cool down very well in the low 100's outside?
Thanks

TXiceman · 06-10-2012, 07:33 PM

Even with the lower priced trailers, you will do better buying a nice clean used unit. New RVs depreciate like mad.

First, how big are you looking at. 36' or so will be hard to cool in 100 degF weather. In full sun in the south, the interior temp will slip.

Best solution is SHADE where possible, especially, the noon to 6 or 7PM time. Also solar screens on the outside of the windows or if you like the dark, the foil bubble insulation will help.

Remember that none of the RVs are insulated as well as a home, the walls and roof are much thinner so there will be more heat gain.

Good luck hunting....

Ken

wes1333 · 06-10-2012, 07:37 PM

We're looking at 30-32' range. Thanks for your help I'll check into the mobile suites.

TXiceman · 06-10-2012, 07:53 PM

Mobile Suites star at 36' or so. Smaller better built units, try Hitchiker, Excel, Alfa...

Ken

chaunclm · 06-10-2012, 08:10 PM

You might look at a New Horizon. It would have to be a used one, but they are exceptionally well done.

Ray,IN · 06-10-2012, 11:43 PM

Keep in mind trailers with a 30A service panel will not normally run 2 air conditioners simultaneously. If you visit manufacturers websites, some list insulation R values in their specifications. We used to have a 30A Dutchmen 5th wheel trailer, I added a 2nd air conditioner to the bedroom planning to visit Las Vegas in August (112* one day). We had to close ourselves in the bedroom to stay somewhat cool, only venturing out to get food from the kitchen and hastily return. Days were spent in casinos (and some money of course)

Mr_D · 06-11-2012, 12:00 AM

I would say Newmar, but they no longer make them (as of last week), plus they're more expensive then your budget unless you drop back at least 5 years.

Cat320 · 06-11-2012, 02:16 PM

Check Mobile Suites and New Horizon...they'll have to be used to be under $60k.

Palpatine · 06-11-2012, 02:45 PM

Mobile Suites start at 32'. They don't advertise them now but did and you might find a used one. The reason they stay cool in 100+ is the fact that the walls are 3.25" thick, more than any other manufacturer and the roof and floor is also thicker with the 15" frame. I have spent lots of time in 100+ with the inside at 72. But both A/C's were working with only a minute or two of rest between cycles. Yes it takes 50 Amps to do it.

Palpatine · 06-11-2012, 02:59 PM

I don't know if we can post other forums pages on here but if you go to: "5thwheelforums" dot com and add this on it "/forums/viewtopic.php?t=3633" then you will see a 32' for 49K, in your range. I'm not affiliated with him nor do I recommend this unit, just FYI.

RET FF · 06-11-2012, 03:44 PM

Wes1333
We are currently (since Jan.) setting in Mesa, Az. and it is 106. Our 30ft Excel has 1 AC and keeps the entire trailor very comfortable. Excel and Hitchhiker are the only "TRUE" 4 seasons RV. Excel is warrantied to -10, not sure about the Hitchhiker. Forget the Newmar and the Mobil Suites, you won't beat the quality of the Excel.

soundman7 · 06-11-2012, 07:04 PM

Yes both the Excel and DRV are an excellent choice, you should have a look at Titaniums as well. I found the Titanium line while looking at used DRVs and we love ours. As previously mentioned a good quality used unit is a much better bargain.
Enjoy your search.