Curious was wondering is there really any difference between the various forest river 5th wheels?we have zeroed in on the palomino columbus which i know is still forest river,and we are pretty much decided on but in a discussion at work,a co worker asked what is the difference between all the models, i figured i would ask here.i know the frame is the same as are post of the appliances and other parts and pieces .thanks

There is a difference between a Wildcat and a Cedar Creek. They're built in different factories, but I don't know about the others.

In a recent quest to upgrade from TT to fifth wheel, I was able to get a lot of info form the factories. If you call the manufacture, they will, or should get you in contact with a rep for each of the models. Some manufactures have different models and brands and may be direct competitor of each other. Also a lot of the same items are used in models, just trim may be different. Like a GMC Sierra and Chevy Silverado, the same but different. Good luck & Be Safe ! ! !

The Columbis line is suppose to be the top tier. With Cardinal and Cedar Creek below them. From whst I have read I would avoid the Columbus models and go for one of the others. Personally I believe the Cedar Creek is probably your best buy for quality for the price and outstanding factory support.

I would consider the cedar creek of higher quality of the fifth wheels mentioned. Don't know anything about the Columbus but the fact it has laminated walls and no rear cap is enough for me to pass on it. The cardinal would be my second pick. Download the brochures and compare features.

Columbus is made by Palomino, a division of FR. It is their high line. Cedar Creek and Cardinal are brands made by FR. I would consider Cedar Creek the more expensive of the two, but that's me. The Columbus is a nicely equipped rig. Depending on which model you choose, some have 10" frames and others have 11" frames; same goes for axles, some are 6,000# some are 7,000#. They have 2" walls and a rear cap is an option. We've had ours for over 3 years. We have thoroughly enjoyed it. Pick a good dealer to ensure a happy ownership.Good luck.

difference in forest river 5th wheels? | Good Sam Community

Bamaman11
Explorer
Jul 06, 2015
Forest River is owned by Berkshire Hathaway, a company with virtually unlimited funds to put into this industry if they choose. They are also in the marine business. They buy RV and boat companies, some of which are bankrupt, for little of nothing. Then they may consolidate some companies, and some they may run separately. They use their incredible buying power to purchase components cheap across the board. And their management expertise is incredible. But in the RV business, they're trying to be everything for every customer. They have too many different products, too many companies and too many floorplans.
When I was buying my fifth wheel trailer and tritoon boat, I went with companies that were #1 in customer service.
ACZL
Explorer
Jul 06, 2015
If memory serves me right, Cedar Creek and Silverback are the only 2 lines made under same roof. Yes all owned by FR, but only 2 made in same plant. CC has been perceived to be FR top dog and Cardinal 2nd. Cardinal is geared more for couples--hence no bunkhouse models.

There are varying building methods used by each of the FR divisions. CC doesn't scrimp and goes for the best. Yes, may cost more, but in the long run they are worth it.
johndeerefarmer
Explorer III
Jul 06, 2015
I would say Cedar Creek and Cardinal are probably at the top. Silverback is a cheaper version of Cedar Creek and Sabre would be a cheaper version of a Columbus

I settled on a Columbus 295RL
patriotgrunt
Explorer
Jul 07, 2015
I thought Sierra and Sandpiper were also made at the same plant?
Winged_One
Explorer
Jul 07, 2015
Brookstones and Chaparrals are made on the same line.
redlinmktg
Explorer
Jul 07, 2015
Cedar Creek and the Wild Cat are no comparison. We looked and tried every unit in the upper mid range, below luxury and kept coming back to the Cedar Creek Silverback. We orderd and bought a 35QB4 in March and left Michigan a week ago for Yellowstone. We traveled with my dad who has a Columbus and when you park them next to each other there are some key differneces. Both are great quality but the Cedar Creek just has a few extras that make it a more higher end unit.
We absolutely love it and have had constant traffic wanting to see it since we parked on Saturday.

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