Community Forums

LostTrail · 08-04-2013, 11:51 PM

Hi. I'm baaaack after a disappointing go-around with Winnebago, we just purchased a '13 Lance 1885, 4 season, etc. As usual, the form was great help and critical in the decision making process. Build quality, options, and not one Lance owner said "I wish I hadn't bought a Lance," carried the day. We will add some options like the magic bike rack and the "fantastic fan" vents when we return.

Our maiden voyage starts Wednesday to Yellowstone where will have full hookups so I have time to look for an answer to this: We didn't get the solar panel option and now need to decide between panels and a generator (a topic which gets beat to death regularly) but I'm concerned about the install of panels on the roof; I can't see how the panels are mounted and am loathe to poke holes in the roof. So, anybody who has done the install on a Lance, please chime in. Specifically, if this is something better left to pros to do.

Bruce C · 08-05-2013, 02:41 AM

Nice looking unit. Enjoy your trip and the ones to come. I can't help on your solar but others will I'm sure. Safe trouble free travels.

lgarcia · 08-05-2013, 05:12 AM

Nice! Welcome back.

jesilvas · 08-05-2013, 05:47 AM

Poking holes in the roof is fine if you know how to do it correctly and neatly.

avid_dk · 08-11-2013, 01:46 PM

LT,

Wow, you ditched the Winnebago Vista. We also had a bad experience with our first motorhome also a Winnebago. Our's lasted about the same amount of time as yours. It was a costly error for us. Would never even think about a Winnebago product again. Did you keep your Jeep? I finally am getting around to preparing mine to tow. The bumper from LOD offroad showed up this week. Best of luck with your new trailer. Enjoy your trip to Yellowstone.

TXiceman · 08-11-2013, 01:53 PM

If you have full hook ups, you won't need solar cells or a generator.

Have fun.

Ken

Cumminsfan · 08-11-2013, 03:03 PM

I would opt for the gen. I carry a Honda 2000W. Another option is a 1000w, cheaper. You can't run the AC with the 2000, or with the Solar but it sounds like that's not an issue for you anyway. Nice thing about the gen is you always have 100% charging. It only takes an hr or two top them off if you don't run them down too much. I would def get two 12V's to start with. 6V's of course will last longer but no use throwing away a perfectly good 12v.

avid_dk · 08-11-2013, 03:34 PM

LT,

Those portable generators are great. Some of the Tiffin Phaeton owner's are starting to carry them instead of running their 10k diesel gensets when their power requirements are low enough. The other great thing about those portable generators is how quiet they are. One can hardly hear them away from your campsite.