Forum Discussion

jaxteller's avatar
jaxteller
Explorer
Jun 02, 2014

First post! Need advice from you good fellas!!!

Thanks for reading. My name is Alex and I currently live in Midland Tx. Working in the oil field as a truck driver. I've decided to buy a Fifth Wheeler. Things in the oil field change constantly. Cost of living is high and there's no job security . Some people say this boom will last 10 years others say 5. Who knows. But i want to be ready for any situation.

Reading through your posts, I found very valuable information.

But here's my question:

I decided to buy a used fifth wheeler. Perhaps a 2010 model or newer. What manufacturer builds the stronger fifth wheeler? Not looking for fancy appliances, but strong and high quality structure, frames, walls, etc.

I'm also going to redecorate the RV. Cant find a modern interior design. Most rvs interior looks like my grandma's house.

Anyways thanks for stopping by and i appreciate your input and or opinion.

God bless.
  • jaxteller's avatar
    jaxteller
    Explorer
    Jun 02, 2014
    Thanks Bombero! I've found great tips in this forum. I don't have the truck yet. I'm going to wait til I buy the 5er. I'm going to check into that toy hauler deal, I actually think it can be a good idea because I'm more than certain that I will get rid of most of the furniture and replace it with something newer, modern looking I guess. I love my grandma a lot but most rvs interior remind me of her living room lol. Thanks again for the suggestion.
  • ol_Bombero-JC's avatar
    ol_Bombero-JC
    Explorer
    Jun 02, 2014
    Welcome, Alex!

    What brand should you get? Lots of possibilities!
    Suggest you find time whenever you can and visit some dealers or an RV show.
    You can also find most mfgr websites with models and floor plans.

    Even if you're not buying new - it will help with ideas of what you like, and what you don't.

    You might also consider a toy hauler - even if you don't have "toys".
    The "garage" portion is handy for....whatever.

    Do you have something to tow a 5th wheel with?

    If you don't - that may be an advantage.

    However, if you already have a tow vehicle - you will need to match your load capability with what you want in a 5th.

    Good luck with your search!

    ~
  • Dutch___Di's avatar
    Dutch___Di
    Explorer
    Jun 02, 2014
    Carriage went out of business but the early 2000 & up to 2003 models were still well built and had good quality. We still have and live in our 1996 and updated her back in 2010. Good luck in your search. hugs, Di
  • jaxteller's avatar
    jaxteller
    Explorer
    Jun 02, 2014
    Thanks Kenneth. Hard decision to take specially for a rookie like me.
  • kennethwooster's avatar
    kennethwooster
    Explorer
    Jun 02, 2014
    A 2010 Carriage or 2011 would make a great used unit. They are solid. Today they are called Lifestyle. Hitchhiker and Excel are also great units. Try to stay away from anything built on Lippert frame.
  • jaxteller's avatar
    jaxteller
    Explorer
    Jun 02, 2014
    Thanks for the advice... any other brands? I've read that new horizons, Drv, lifestyle are good also?
  • Me_Again's avatar
    Me_Again
    Explorer III
    Jun 02, 2014
    agesilaus wrote:
    Arctic Fox is one brand with a good rep for sturdy construction. They are also highly winterized. Not many seem to show up on the used market tho, which should tell you something.


    Great minds! Chris
  • Me_Again's avatar
    Me_Again
    Explorer III
    Jun 02, 2014
    Arctic Fox or a Hitchhiker II would be a good starting place. Chris
  • agesilaus's avatar
    agesilaus
    Explorer III
    Jun 02, 2014
    Arctic Fox is one brand with a good rep for sturdy construction. They are also highly winterized. Not many seem to show up on the used market tho, which should tell you something.

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