Grand Design Solitude vs. Montana

ZeeLet50 wrote:
Just curious, I am looking at Grand Design and would like to know what kind of problems were experienced with the earlier models. I do like their features and the specs match my limits. What I have found is "better built" can lead to heavier trailer which would result in buying a smaller model than I an seeking.

Early on and still a problem but almost non existent was the issue of blown seals on the axles from the factory. (Lippert) This went on for a couple years. Some units had a stain problem on the kitchen island base counter. Seems they didn't apply a clear over it and owners were reporting that when they went to wipe down the base that the cloth would have brown stain on it.
The Kantleak valve used for the switching of water from city to fresh tank leaked. Many owners just fixed it themselves. I believe GD has a different one now. On Reflection models there was also a heat issue with the ducting in the center island cabinet. Seems it made items in there become really hot. I think they had other floor heat duct issues as well.
I read on the GD owners forum daily. I've been on there since GD's inception. I don't see any major issues like cracked frames, I do see some issues like a leaking slide or little items that plague the RV industry as a whole. Normal stuff.
Early on customer service was over the top. Naturally since they were selling far fewer units than now. There used to be almost daily feedback from an on site GD rep. I don't see that happening as much anymore. The CS is still good. I will say though it's not as some will have you believe as the best in the industry. I've had just as good of service (Rarely needed) with my brand. I read a few other brand forums and have seen other owners have no problem getting their units repaired easily. Percentage wise I would say GD is tops. Although if you're buying used then the CS is mute.
Overall I've only rarely read about major issues a few times. Considering how many units they pumping out now, thats pretty good.
You really should spend a month and read about what problems other owners are having over on their owners forun site. It is a pay to play site but you can still read for free.

https://www.granddesignowners.com/forum/forum.php