Community Forums

jacknlynne · 01-10-2016, 04:06 PM

Howdy all,

I need you all's advise on a purchase of a used 5th wheel for me and my wife.

These two are priced about the same, both 37 foot, both rear living

1. Keystone Montana

2. Cedar Creek

My truck is a 2008 F250 diesel

We have owned bumper pulls TT for years, sold it a couple years ago.

JacknLynne
KD8PYY ham radio

Arch Hoagland · 01-10-2016, 04:39 PM

Which one does your wife like the most?

easdsa · 01-10-2016, 06:04 PM

Assuming that both are in acceptable condition and the floor plans suit both of you, go with the one that your wife likes best.

I'm a bit concerned, though, that you might be marginal on the truck. Remember that about 25% of the trailer's GROSS weight will be on your rear axle. You might check your numbers. Fifth wheels are usually somewhat heavier than travel trailers, and there's no weight distributing hitch to spread the weight around. The hitch (pin) weight goes straight on the rear axle.

Dogpatch · 01-10-2016, 08:26 PM

Out of the two I think the Cedar Creek is the better made model.

There are a lot out there to chose from.

Bamaman · 01-10-2016, 08:29 PM

First: Find yourself an exemplary RV dealership with a great service department that offers reasonably fast service.

Second: Shop for an RV that suits your needs.

Good RV dealerships will often sell the best brands of travel trailers and motorhomes.

paz · 01-11-2016, 04:58 AM

jacknlynne,

I don't know about Cedar Creek, but if I remember correctly, Montana says the warranty is void if the unit is used for full-time living. That may not be an issue if you're buying used, but it may speak to the overall quality of the unit and the lack of confidence the manufacturer has in the longevity.

Fsufreak · 01-11-2016, 07:05 AM

Do a review of the two brands chosen that should steer you in the right direction.

Dogpatch · 01-11-2016, 07:07 AM

Quote:

Originally Posted by kb0zke

I'm a bit concerned, though, that you might be marginal on the truck. Remember that about 25% of the trailer's GROSS weight will be on your rear axle. You might check your numbers. Fifth wheels are usually somewhat heavier than travel trailers, and there's no weight distributing hitch to spread the weight around. The hitch (pin) weight goes straight on the rear axle.

Here is one of the many towing calculator web sites to check what you can tow.

Towing Planner - towing capability calculators

jimcumminsw · 01-11-2016, 08:55 AM

I have had three fivers; our first one the manufacture is out of business. My second unit was manufactured by Keystone Corp.(Cougar) and my third 5er is manufactured by Forest River Corp.(Cedar Creek).

When we were looking for a new 5er, I informed my wife I would never ever own another Keystone product.

Now as far as the Cedar Creek; this unit can be lived in full time. We have the smallest of the models offered a 34RL and it is a heavy unit. We have had a few issues with our unit and the dealer and Forest River Customer service has been excellent. In fact you can actual discuss issues with the factory representatives for the model you purchase unlike Keystone and get results.

At the international rally held each year in Goshen IN. by the Forest River Owners Group (F.R.O.G.). Forest River is there to assist owners with issues on their trailers regardless of age. Most repairs were down for free as an example the unit next to me which was a two year old unit and out of warranty, he had his brake drums and shoes replaced for free.

Now Cedar Creek has announced a new model called; Cedar Creek Champagne this is to complete against the higher end units that are for sale now.

There is also a new RiverStone model which is a separate line of 5er's by Forest River you could look for.

Jim

Cummins12V98 · 01-12-2016, 10:54 AM

Quote:

Originally Posted by jacknlynne

Howdy all,

I need you all's advise on a purchase of a used 5th wheel for me and my wife.

These two are priced about the same, both 37 foot, both rear living

1. Keystone Montana

2. Cedar Creek

My truck is a 2008 F250 diesel

We have owned bumper pulls TT for years, sold it a couple years ago.

JacknLynne
KD8PYY ham radio

For one dump the truck you don't want troubles on the road. Next that is too light of a truck for a 37' RV when FULLTIMING. Fulltiming I would for sure look at Quality lightly used RV's like Carriage, HitchHiker and MobileSuites to name a few. Yes then you will need and WANT Dually.

jacknife · 01-12-2016, 01:54 PM

Get a moisture indicator they sell one at Lowes that is reasonable. It helps check for areas that may leak.l wouldn't spend to much time comparing the two. They are both in the same price build range and use mostly the same brands of appliences furniture , etc. Also frames and axles. Good luck.

Cumminsfan · 01-12-2016, 06:09 PM

I'd also look at Northwood Arctic Fox. Quite a few full timers in the large TTs and 5ers.
This ones got 4400lbs of CCC which you'll need for full timing. Fiberglass rear cap, dual pane windows and in house built frame.
Northwood | Arctic Fox 32-5M

Tinagalloway · 01-12-2016, 08:37 PM

what iv read stay away from keystone they have a hate page on facebook

caissiel · 01-12-2016, 08:46 PM

There are hate pages everywhere. Keystone sells much more units then most and just by numbers more comments will be said.
I tow a 15k unit, 39ft long with my F250 for the past 9 years,
and have no reason to change for the next 10 years.