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Jarand's avatar
Jarand
Explorer
Mar 01, 2013

toy hauler FAQ's

We are considering downsizing from our Montana 5th wheel to a toy hauler, thinking it will be suitable for several families to use. We wondered what are the things we really should watch for?

Desires:
~Pull trailer, not 5th wheel (flexibility for multiple families)
~Hauls two ATV's (Honda 680's)
~We're thinking we don't like the floor plans with the wall dividing the living space from the cargo space
~Flexibility; ability to sleep 6-8 with at least one comfortable permanent bed
~30' or so in length

What should we watch for? Advice appreciated! Thanks.
  • I guess my ATV must be different because I definately get a distinct gas oder if I leave it stored inside the garage for a couple of days.
  • We have had two toy haulers now, both open style, and have never had a gas smell anywhere in our unit. I've asked our friends and they have never had a problem either.
  • Thank you moderator for the resize.
    Our Octane has a queen size bed in the front that does not show in the photos. Odor has not been a problem within the coach... well not from the toys, haha. My drop down beds are queen width, but 8' long. I carry a memory foam pad on the upper bunk during transport and move it to the lower bed for sleep, just a little more comfort for the "old" bones. I also carry a Honda EU2000 to charge battery's and evening entertainment, I only use the on board Onan/Cummins 4000 when I run the AC and that is very rarely used.
  • I agree the more open floor plan gives you more options and does allow more toys to be hauled. We considered that type of floor plan very closely.

    We did opt to get a plan with a separate garage however, and one advantage there is the gas smell is not in your main living area. I often do not unload the ATV when returning from a hunting trip until days later and be have the separate room the oder is not an issue.

    The other thing we like is when another couple joins us, it is like a separate sleeping quarters with lots of privacy. Our needs may be different than yours but this has worked well for us.
  • I like that setup! It looks like it has queen size that comes down on the tracks by the garage door. That is awesome.. wishing I would have went that way now!
  • For what it’s worth, we love our Jayco Octane. 24’, sleeps 8 easy, we did the “Super Seating” option that allows seating for 8-9 around the kitchen table, 2 electric beds in the garage and a built in bug screen for when the garage door is open. I did not want to give up my PU Bed, so bumper pull was our option. The TH is 8’6” wide, which is good for the interior space, but I notice the extra width during towing and we are 12’6” high at the AC. We like having the “garage” as usable space when we are not hauling our toys, anyway, just a few photos of our rig. JH




    Moderators Edit: Adjusted photo width to 640 pixels per the forum guidelines. The Photo FAQ's has help & tips for posting photos.