Community Forums

NURSECAMPER · 10-30-2012, 12:57 AM

Do you think paying more for the fiberglass that's lighter weight is worth it? Also, what about campers that boast having the under side sealed in and the polar tech packages? Are these items worth it? Electric jacks? Etc what things are just nice and what ammenities are really necessary

IWillRVToo · 10-30-2012, 10:09 PM

Some thoughts;
Fiberglass adds strength as it is part of the structure.
It could be more slippery to air moving along it.
It is smooth so doors, windows, etc. are more easily sealed to it.
My exterior walls are 1/4" thick and adding "accessories" does not bring any concerns about screws tearing out of thin corrugated siding.
Sealed belly - not a fan
Polar tech will keep the unit cooler too.
Electric stabilizers - HUGE fan.

WoodGlue · 10-30-2012, 10:59 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by NURSECAMPER

Do you think paying more for the fiberglass that's lighter weight is worth it? Also, what about campers that boast having the under side sealed in and the polar tech packages? Are these items worth it? Electric jacks? Etc what things are just nice and what ammenities are really necessary

I'd think that you'd want a heavier grade of fiberglass.
More importantly, in a "polar" package is the insulation used and do you have heated holding tanks, and dual pane windows? But yes, having the underbelly sealed as part of a polar package can be a good thing.
Electric Jacks are great!
So are electric awnings!

IWillRVToo · 10-31-2012, 10:17 AM

Oh yeah - the power awning - fantastic!!

wingnut60 · 10-31-2012, 03:48 PM

Are you referring to an optional 'lightweight' fiberglass or fiberglass vs aluminum sides. Fiberglass is heavier than aluminum, I am not aware of varying thicknesses of fiberglass where you can pay for 'lighter' fiberglass, nor would you want to.
An enclosed underbelly is important to keep the trailer warm in cold settings, but is not necessary if you would never camp in cold temps. But it also keeps things clean and protects piping/wiring etc. If you don't get an electric tongue jack, then later do install one, you will wonder why you waited so long...
A lot of 'polar packages' don't amount to much, and you would not be able to get that without an enclosed underbelly. Just be sure what the package includes--is it just more fiberglass insulation or includes tank heaters?
Joe

tuffr2 · 11-08-2012, 07:23 PM

Electric stabilizer jacks - probaby worth it. Polar, Artic, All Season packages..ugh A rule I use - don't pay for things you can not see....except these packages. Fiberglass - I am a big fan as was mentioned before makes the unit stronger plus it is easier to clean plus looks better.

Nitrohorse · 11-09-2012, 01:38 PM

Google delaminated RV fiberglass and decide for youself.

NURSECAMPER · 11-13-2012, 11:05 PM

thank you all so much

rgreen45 · 11-17-2012, 05:35 AM

Quote:

Originally Posted by NURSECAMPER

thank you all so much

Keep us posted as to what you buy and what options.

cekkk · 11-18-2012, 08:23 PM

I think a person's age is a factor. 20 years ago I wouldn't have needed electric stabilizer/tongue jacks or power awning, but today I'd give an obscene amount of money for an electric shank installer!

GuyWhoTris · 11-19-2012, 04:37 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by cekkk

I think a person's age is a factor. 20 years ago I wouldn't have needed electric stabilizer/tongue jacks or power awning, but today I'd give an obscene amount of money for an electric shank installer!

I'd also add the age and strength of those helping you. With power jacks, awnings etc my wife and kids can help. Before I added those it was a lot more work.

I'd also add an internal black tank cleaner. They can be added. My trailer came with it. Hook up a garden hose to the outside of the trailer and get the tank really clean. No odors.

Francesca · 11-19-2012, 04:44 PM

Do keep in mind that the so-called "fiberglass" on most RVs is not the same solid fiberglass as that on boats, small molded trailers, and a few campers. In most other cases, the "fiberglass siding" consists of a thin composite skin glued to a layer of plywood...hence the provenance of the delamination problems referred to above.

HTFireMedic · 11-19-2012, 04:46 PM

I have a Fuzion fiver. Fiberglass and electric jacks. My MIL has aa aluminum sided tag along and it's all manual. My Aunt has a fiberglass tag along all manual jacks.
I love the well maintained fiberglass. I wax mine. My Aunt hasn't. Mine is good hers is dull. My MIL has had sheet metal damage done to hers. And it shows.
The manual jacks in SC summers are not good. Although you do have a built in weight loss program.
I am now 41 and will gladly leave the manual jacks and such to the younger folks!