Community Forums

Peter B · 10-13-2012, 04:10 PM

We are in the process of downsizing the house and getting ready for retirement. We are looking for a fifth wheel trailer . I think that we narrowed it down to three manufactures and brand names they are the DRV 38RESB3 Rushmore Jefferson RF39jE and the Redwood 36rl. Tow vehicle not a problem either a F 350 or F 450 . Any comments or guidance in this would be greatly appreciated.

450Donn · 10-13-2012, 04:37 PM

If you have not bought a truck yet, consider a MDT. Cost would be less than a new F450 and a far more capable tow vehicle. As for the fivers, DRV is probably considered the best. The others are a step or two down.

greyt-parent · 10-15-2012, 07:26 PM

there are many threads in this discussion group about full timing which should provide you with a wealth of information. Rather than rehashing old arguments, I will only comment on the most important issue; make sure to read the fine print of the manufacturers warranty before putting your name on the dotted line. Many manufacturers do not warranty their product for full timing, 24 x 7 occupancy, residential living or many other phrases that imply that you are using the unit to live in full time. The reason for this is that building an RV for use 3-4 weeks a year allows the use of cheaper components, framing, engineering, etc when compared to building a rig for 24x7 occupancy.
Do a search on the term 'full timing' on this forum and you will get many threads to read through covering the topic.

TXiceman · 10-16-2012, 06:42 AM

If you are going to get the truck to pull it, I'd go with a DRV over the others. In general, I do not liek the Thor products.

You might also consider the Lifestyle Luxury RVs...former Carriage management and design. Looks like they are doing a good job.
LIFESTYLE Luxury RV

Ken

adehaan86 · 10-16-2012, 07:01 AM

Quote:

Originally Posted by 450Donn

If you have not bought a truck yet, consider a MDT. Cost would be less than a new F450 and a far more capable tow vehicle. As for the fivers, DRV is probably considered the best. The others are a step or two down.

What is a MDT?

TXiceman · 10-16-2012, 07:17 AM

MDT is Medium Duty Truck....liek a Freightliner Fl60 or FL70.
http://www.trucktrend.com/features/c.../photo_09.html

Ken

didymop · 10-16-2012, 11:42 PM

Look at Excels/Peterson Industries out of Smith Center Ks. Made for Fulltime living with -10 F temperature guarantee and 2 year warranty. All sizes. Limited has fiberglass roof; Winslow is other product line. Also make toy hauler (Wild Cargo). Best customer service anywhere in the business. You can build ur RV on line and they will modify to suit your needs and desires. Good selection of new ones in Moriarty NM at RV Sales. Look at the Excel Owners Forum as a part of this site. We have owned our 36' limited for 7 years and now Fulltime live in it. Life is good. Happy shopping.

99-Am.Star · 10-17-2012, 01:17 PM

I'll second the LIFESTYLE RV. Saw them at Hershey and give them

. They are on my list......

Vgone · 10-18-2012, 01:06 AM

We were all set to buy a DRV until we discovered the new Lifestyle 5th Wheels. We fell in love with the LS36FW. We have camped in it 3 weekends so far. We are very impressed with the quality, functionality, and attention to detail.