Community Forums

deandec · 09-26-2013, 10:28 AM

Your question has been discussed in many threads on this and other forums.

While monitoring your thread, also do a search for previous discussions. They will add dimensions to this discussions that will prove valuable.

Greytraveler · 09-26-2013, 01:00 PM

We are now on our forth fifth wheel and are still talking about what it would be like to have a MH. One thing my wife thinks is the dogs would be more comfortable. See, we all have our priorities.

After making enough mistakes to write a book when comes to buying various items I have decided I would not buy another RV without talking first to my trusted RV repair guys. They know what it costs to fix various rigs plus how reliable and durable they might be.

I don't know the manufacturer but I seem to remember that Beaver is one of the preferred coaches. So that is my contribution. I obviously need to learn a lot more. That is what the web is for.

One last thing, make a list of the cost of various things that a MH will require, like the cost of tires, towing in case of a breakdown, routine maintenance, etc. And storage if needed. Buying is just the first expense.

Happy hunting.

John H... · 09-26-2013, 01:09 PM

Regardless of what manufacturer you pick, I favor the Ford chassis, but the most crucial part is to be absolutely comfortable with the floor plan.

RLTimblin · 09-26-2013, 01:45 PM

We had a diesel but diesel operation and repair is expensive. We have a Bounder gas puller and love it. We haven't met a Bounder owner that hasn't totally enjoyed their Bounder. We get 10 mpg hauling our car. Most others cannot beat it. We have a 36 footer and it has just the right amount of space (two sliders). I would not buy something without sliders. Also, the Bounder can run off of 30 amp service which saves money.

jmoffat · 09-26-2013, 01:52 PM

had a Fleetwood gasser very noisy with road and motor noise finally bit the bullet and bought a used DP Monaco Beaver 2007 wow what a difference like driving a cadillac upkeep will be more but IMHO worth every penny

Jim

Greytraveler · 09-26-2013, 02:00 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by drakethib

Budget 50K or less, mentioned that we were leaning toward gas as we are just weekend warriors.

I just finished a lunchtime search on RVtrader.com and found more MH at 50k or less than I had time to look at. Looking for a specific mfg will narrow the search.

There are a ton of Fleetwood and Winne models for sale so lots to choose from. The only limiting factor is how far you are willing to travel to see and buy.

dezolen · 09-26-2013, 07:10 PM

Go for a Fleetwood or Winnebago, Thor. Once you see a Tiffin Allegro you will realize that is what you should have bought in the first place.
Get the floorplan that works best for you. Be sure to check them all as you are making a large depreciating purchase and you want to get it right the first time.
I just love to start brand war. Sorry guys

drakethib · 09-26-2013, 07:27 PM

Thanks again for all of the replies folks. Really trying to take as much time as I need but I would be telling a lie if I didn't feel like a kid heading to a candy store.

Looks like I have narrowed down, to Fleetwood, Tiffin, or Winnie.

I have seen some nice Gulfstream MH but I hear horror stories about them.

akeyzoo · 09-26-2013, 07:32 PM

Bear in mind that the vintage will likely dictate the renovation/updates needed, so be prepared to spend a few bucks once you buy. Tires? Check the DOT code, they may need replacing based on age not tread. Batteries age? Also, if you are handy you can easily modernize the TV's. Haven't met a Bounder owner that wasn't happy.

Chris

Skip426 · 09-27-2013, 03:48 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by drakethib

Thanks again for all of the replies folks. Really trying to take as much time as I need but I would be telling a lie if I didn't feel like a kid heading to a candy store.

Looks like I have narrowed down, to Fleetwood, Tiffin, or Winnie.

I have seen some nice Gulfstream MH but I hear horror stories about them.

Forgot to mention on my previous post.
Learn everything you can on Cargo Carrying Capacity , and find the weight sheet on any unit your interested in. Many gas Class A's particularly those with multiple slides have very little CCC.

Turbofans · 09-27-2013, 03:58 PM

Bought our first RV last May and I had the same question on which brand was better.
I came to the decision that they are all about the same as far as Class A Manufactures go. I tried to pinpoint it down to a specific brand, but didn't have much luck on any forum I posted on.
If your a Ford or Chevy person, then the chassis will matter to you.
As you can see below what I ended up with. Basically went with floorplan and options/price that appealed to DW and myself, so at this point being 6 months into ownership I can only agree on Rodneykrantz's post! But then, she is my first love, other than my wife.

Greytraveler · 09-28-2013, 09:01 AM

And when you are inspecting any rig do not forget to look at the condition of the roof. A roof in poor condition can be a costly fix.

drakethib · 09-28-2013, 04:35 PM

And the winner is, a new to me 2006 35' Fleetwood Bounder.

We got a steal of a deal after looking at 40 - 50 units.

Thanks to all of those who replied and gave us advice.

Looking forward to picking it up !