Forum Discussion

Lexx's avatar
Lexx
Explorer
Oct 06, 2017

New Grand Design solitude vs used DRV

We are newbies at this. We have triplet 6 y.o. boys. Being in California I've read that we can't get most trailers more than about 30 feet long won't fit into our state parks. We are going to be spending Summers in British Columbia,Alberta, and the northwestern US.

Since we are not full timers would we be better off buying a new Grand Design 5th wheeler or a used DRV. We are thinking about something in about the 36 to 38 feet long range. Alternatively we could get a toy hauler but those usually seem to be more like 38 ft and longer. The toy hauler is intriguing because the garage can be used as a 2nd bedroom for the boys.

Is it worth it to get a used DRV unit that is a few years old versus a brand new Solitude or Momentum with all the latest amenities?

And looking at used units how do we assess whether it has been well taken care of?
  • To be honest I have not seen to many bunk model DRV units (3 children friendly)
  • Also, pre-owned rigs tend to have the kinks worked out and you won't have to deal with warranty b.s. while on the road. Doesn't mean that stuff won't go wrong, you just have to deal with it yourself, but it's usually much less likely.

    Lyle
  • The DRV will be worth much more in the long run. Avoid the ones with The Schwintek slide system. If it's been upgraded then no problem. I "think" they are in the 12-13 model years???