Starting Point recommendations Bunk House 5er MFG and Models
Greetings All
We are considering a fifth wheel purchase in the near future in anticipation of the "great American out west road trip" in 2016 or 2017. Looking for some recommendations on brands and models to look at. Anticipate buying new or late model used.
Considerations:
Tow Vehicle
2013 Ford F350 6.7L diesel, crew cab short bed SRW
max payload of 3,300# leads me to a max pin of 2,500# or pref 2,000#
max trailer weight is 15,900
Anticipated Use
In addition to the above mentioned 3-4 week out West Trip, anticipate local New England weekend or week long trips. Our local campgrounds tend to be smaller, so not looking for a 40 footer.
Floorplan
I like the idea of the bunkhouse floor plan, my preference is not to make and unmake beds all the time. We are an active family of 4 (2 girls aged 7 and 10), focus is on a place to sleep and prep meals, vs. the most comfortable recliners and largest TV. Comfy beds for 4, with space for the occasional guest or 2 is sufficient. Storage for clothes, food and gear is a consideration as my family is not known for packing light. One bath is sufficient.
Budget
I'm a best value shopper vs. price. I will pay more for better quality, lower hassle, and potential resale. I'm not sure what my wife is thinking, but anything in 5 figures is within the realm of fiscal feasibility
Performance
Obviously looking for something that doesn't leak, in addition decent appliances, HVAC performance, good running gear. Expect that the unit will be stored outdoors including in our brutal winters.
Features
Looking for some advice here - Outdoor kitchen seems interesting - Are they functional or just a gimmick?. What other features should I be looking at? Cushioned pins? Jacks? Inverters, Generator prep? Other???
Specs
What size holding tank and water tanks are "appropriate" - many of the state parks nearby don't have water or electric hookups. I anticipate my short bed truck will necessitate a sliding hitch setup, or are there trailers that are designed with the shortbed use in mind?
So - after all that.... Which brands (locally available in New England) should I start with? Thanks in advance
We are considering a fifth wheel purchase in the near future in anticipation of the "great American out west road trip" in 2016 or 2017. Looking for some recommendations on brands and models to look at. Anticipate buying new or late model used.
Considerations:
Tow Vehicle
2013 Ford F350 6.7L diesel, crew cab short bed SRW
max payload of 3,300# leads me to a max pin of 2,500# or pref 2,000#
max trailer weight is 15,900
Anticipated Use
In addition to the above mentioned 3-4 week out West Trip, anticipate local New England weekend or week long trips. Our local campgrounds tend to be smaller, so not looking for a 40 footer.
Floorplan
I like the idea of the bunkhouse floor plan, my preference is not to make and unmake beds all the time. We are an active family of 4 (2 girls aged 7 and 10), focus is on a place to sleep and prep meals, vs. the most comfortable recliners and largest TV. Comfy beds for 4, with space for the occasional guest or 2 is sufficient. Storage for clothes, food and gear is a consideration as my family is not known for packing light. One bath is sufficient.
Budget
I'm a best value shopper vs. price. I will pay more for better quality, lower hassle, and potential resale. I'm not sure what my wife is thinking, but anything in 5 figures is within the realm of fiscal feasibility
Performance
Obviously looking for something that doesn't leak, in addition decent appliances, HVAC performance, good running gear. Expect that the unit will be stored outdoors including in our brutal winters.
Features
Looking for some advice here - Outdoor kitchen seems interesting - Are they functional or just a gimmick?. What other features should I be looking at? Cushioned pins? Jacks? Inverters, Generator prep? Other???
Specs
What size holding tank and water tanks are "appropriate" - many of the state parks nearby don't have water or electric hookups. I anticipate my short bed truck will necessitate a sliding hitch setup, or are there trailers that are designed with the shortbed use in mind?
So - after all that.... Which brands (locally available in New England) should I start with? Thanks in advance
