New here and new to RVing/purchase help

[poppawolf]

Hi there! Was lucky enough to find a link to this site from Reddit and realized what a great resource a forum site could be. Me and the wife are new to RVing in that we will hopefully be purchasing our first RV before years end. We have had some experience with rentals over the last 4 years and we love it so much that the search has begun.

We are in the market for a low price point entry level C;ass A and are considering 2 different bunkhouse models: ForestRiver Georgetown 364TS vs Thor Hurricane 34J. I posted in the ClassA Forum seeking opinions one either manufacturer as far as quality etc as we don't have enough motorhoming friends to guide us on whether one brand is better than the other. So any feedback here from anyone would always be greatly appreciated!

Since we feel we've done our due diligence of research into different classes and models we now hope to use the forums to hear if we narrowed it down to sensible manufacturers and or models and look forward to learning from all your years of experience.

Thanks Chris and Loren

[MSHappyCampers]

Hi Chris & Loren! Welcome to IRV2! We're sure glad you joined the gang!

Hope you find the perfect rig for your needs!

Good luck, happy trails, and God bless!

[rvtrekers]

Originally Posted by poppawolf

ForestRiver Georgetown 364TS vs Thor Hurricane 34J

While I do not own either, as your research probably has already shown, seems they are both built upon the same larger Ford f53 chassis and use the Triton V-10 engine. So that part of the quality evaluation is probably a wash. You will find, and probably have found through your research there are many perspectives on the Ford F53 chassis. My coach is built upon the smaller F53 chassis and my prior purchase research told me to expect less than stellar handling performance from the small F53 chassis in particular because I bought a coach with only 158" wheelbase. My expectation was correct but I have been able to improve handling performance with aftermarket solutions including the Cheap Handling Fix (CHF).

I am sure others will be along and able to speak to the quality of the house, fit and finish, reliability of the systems (fridge, air conditioning, etc.), insulation and other items separate from the chassis and engine. Floor plan is also determining factor for many doing comparisons.

It is always fun and exciting trying to optimize the purchase!

[JerryP]

Welcome to IRV2. You will find a lot of good information here.

We are very happy with our 2013 Newmar Bay Star 3002. I would definitely recommend Newmar products. They tend to be a little more expensive than Thor or FR, but a 2 year old Newmar will probably be cheaper than a "new" coach from another manufacturer. Be sure to compare the build quality of the cabinets and hardware. Check out the way the outside cargo doors are built. Be sure to go on test rides and listen for rattles.

Almost all the the Class A gas coaches are built on the Ford F53 platform. The F53 is rated for weights from 18K up to 26K. The heavier coaches tend to ride better. For example one manufacturer might use an 18K coach while another would use a 22K coach for the same length product. Also 22.5" wheels ride better than 19" wheels.

Most Ford F53 coaches tend to have handling issues from the factory. Such as - swaying due to crosswinds or passing 18Wheelers. These can be addressed with aftermarket shocks, sway bars, track bar, steering dampers and an adjustment called "Cheap Handling Fix". These fixes can be added for $2000 or less. See my signature to see what I've done. Several owners on this site are happy with the way the coaches drive as delivered. (your mileage may vary on this).

I have owned several coaches and am finally satisfied with my Newmar.

Regards, Jerry

[poppawolf]

Thanks for the advice. I have to be honest, I never really gave much thought to the chassis and performance of the MH. I guess that since I had good experiences with my class C rentals I assumed these manufacturers would also design and build appropriate for the size Class A MH that they are selling. But as you indicate, I should consider it. Unfortunately the two units I'm looking at have several reasons Im looking at them. King bed, 1.5 or 2 full baths, bunkhouse for the kids and a price point around 100K. That being said and knowing both are on the same chassis, I definately will investigate CHF after we decide on and make a purchase. Thanks!!!

[AKOne]

Certainly would spend time in the ForestRiver owners forum. Welcome!

[poppawolf]

Originally Posted by AKOne

Certainly would spend time in the ForestRiver owners forum. Welcome!

Thanks, I'll check it out.