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getnsmart2013's avatar
getnsmart2013
Explorer
Aug 19, 2013

What 5vr would you buy?

Hi everyone. I'm hoping to get opinions derived from experience and knowledge of 5vr's. I've decided to sell the stick and brick and purchase a 5vr. The issue is I just don't know which one to buy. I have looked at Jayco, Infinity, Rushmore, Cedar Creek, Trilogy, Heartland, Excel, DRV, and many others.

The plan is to park the 5vr and live in it as I'm still several years from retirement age. Next year I plan to purchase a 17' TT to take on short weekend trips for camping/fishing.

So here are some questions for the experts and seasoned 5vr's:

One of the most important things is good cooling from the AC. Is it the norm that one unit is 13k btu and the other 15k btu? Of course I've been looking during the heat of the day and the units that were plugged in and running were not very cool. Is this adequate for hot Texas summers?

Insulation ranks right up there with the AC. Does anyone know which manufacturer provides the most efficient insulation?

Another important aspect is the refrigerator. I have read that some are prone to fires but not so much if it's residential style. Is there any truth to that? Kind of scary to think the frig could burn the RV up.

What other important factors should I be looking at?

Thanks for any information you can provide. My head is spinning trying to figure this out.

40 Replies

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  • kennethwooster's avatar
    kennethwooster
    Explorer
    Aug 19, 2013
    I live in Texas Panhandle. Bought a Cameo in Colorado. It had one ac so had to install a second. This trailer is a 4 season trailer, so be careful and get the best as Texas is very hot and cold. Look at Lifestyle. Would be an excellant all season.
  • chiefneon's avatar
    chiefneon
    Explorer
    Aug 19, 2013
    Howdy!

    Being from the great state of Texas and now a fulltimer I would say you list is short if you are going to remain in the Texas heat. As suggested Artic Fox, Excel, DVR and not on the list New Horizon or Space Craft. The last two you can have them custom build to your liking. Even if you decide on others on the list you will want double pain windows and two AC's with the best insulation. As stated we are fulltimers and "SunBirds" we lived and worked in Texas and now we run from the Texas Heat.

    "Happy Trails"
    Chiefneon
  • twins89's avatar
    twins89
    Explorer
    Aug 19, 2013
    The higher end ones are usually built for fulltime living. If I had no price point I needed to stay around, I would go with a DRV. If I needed to stay below 55K, I would go with Artic Fox Silver. I love my Jayco and have no issues with it for 30 or 40 nights a year but it is not for full-time. Artic Fox is a true 4 season unit, I only wish we could get them on the east coast.
  • kakampers's avatar
    kakampers
    Explorer
    Aug 19, 2013
    The insulation of our Heartland Landmark is quite good...spent this past winter in it, got down in the teens and we stayed toasty...the 40k btu furnace worked well, without constant cycling. . It also comes standard with two 15k A/Cs and the system is dual ducted...which kept us cool and comfortable when the temps pushed 100 this summer and they cycled normally also without running constantly.
  • Atom_Ant's avatar
    Atom_Ant
    Explorer
    Aug 19, 2013
    There isn't a bad one in your list - obviously the more expensive ones have more expensive features and are generally built sturdier. No different than buying a house or car.

    The fridge fire issue was resolved - relax and take some time to get the feel of them and pick the one that feels best.
  • tvfrfireman's avatar
    tvfrfireman
    Explorer
    Aug 19, 2013
    You mentioned insulation......DRV has three and a quarter inch thick walls with a better r factor. We have the Elite Suites and got the 15 K btu air conditioner/ heat pumps. The electric fireplace was reluctantly ordered and were surprised how much we enjoyed it. Some folks have great luck with their DRV products but we have had numerous problems. Lots of things broke like the TV and surge protector. It is just a******shoot as most have had great luck with DRV. They are getting everything fixed for us and we like the trailer as far as finish quality. We notice the better r factor as the heat and air conditioner are not cycling all the time and there are no drafts. The price on these trailers really vary a bunch. If you end up considering this unit, send me a message and I will reply and let you know what I found and who we found to be the most informed and helpful dealer. This is our fifth RV and have enjoyed every one.
  • deleted-2's avatar
    deleted-2
    Explorer
    Aug 19, 2013
    Well since this the fifth wheel section and I already bought one.
    I'll say I'd buy a Heartland.

    Then again if I was looking I'd look at the Keystone mid to high line 5vers.
  • GON2SKI's avatar
    GON2SKI
    Explorer
    Aug 19, 2013
    Just bought it. Arctic Fox 27-5L Small and easy to maneuver, Heavy well built on a solid frame, Capable of hooking up or boon docking, Paid for and ready to use!
  • n7bsn's avatar
    n7bsn
    Explorer
    Aug 19, 2013
    Excel and DRV are the best rigs on your list, my preference would be towards the Excel.
    Dual A/C systems would be something to look for, and well insulated (hence the Excel)

    Two other points, New Horizon is ever better and have you considered a Park Model?

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