Nuts & Bolts
Need information from all of the seasoned Fifth Wheel owners out there. Taking off all the lipstick and mascara tell me what's the most important things to be looking at in terms of our first RV? Ta...
Forum Discussion
logsend wrote:
Need information from all of the seasoned Fifth Wheel owners out there. Taking off all the lipstick and mascara tell me what's the most important things to be looking at in terms of our first RV? Talk to me about insulation, talk to me about frames, tell me about the stuff that is key to making a sound RV. What size tanks are really needed? What should we do ourselves in lieu of letting the dealer do? For example are we better off letting them do the generator prep and then buying our own generator?
Thanks!
Lots of questions, lets break them down one at a time.
Frames? Lippert components has probably 90% of the market, so more than likely that is what you will get.
Tank capacity? Depends on your RV lifestyle. Lots of boon docking, then you want the largest tanks possible. Mostly full hookup camping, then tank size is really unimportant.
You vs dealer repairs? Let the dealer handle most fixes until the warrenty expires, then DIY is the key. Routine maintenance is definitely DIY. With our new fiver I spent probably 40 hours making it good enough for me. And we own what I consider a very well built RV.
Generator? Forget it. They are very heavy and expensive for very little use. Instead opt for a portable generator like the Honda 2000 watt or a pair if you insist on running the AC when stopped. Lots cheaper and lighter, not to mention more versitle around home.
Most important things to look for? COMFORT! You want to purchase what fits your lifestyle. As examples, place for a garbage can in the kitchen. Lighting the oven easily, taking a shower, enough closet space, large enough bed, actually cooking a meal! Best advise I can offer on this is once you find a trailer you think you like, get rid of the salesman for a half hour or so and play house. Pretent your making a meal, watching TV, taking a shower try sitting on the toilet. Is there enough room? You will be surprised how many RV's dont have storage space for pots and pans, or the shower is too small. Once you find a floor plan your comfortable in everything will fall into place.
