Family Owned MH Manufacturers

Texas Roadrunner wrote:
Sailor, we know so little about motor homes, we were just thinking that possibly there might be some better quality control. This might be flawed thinking, and we are at the beginning of a "maybe" purchase. We have friends who had both a Newmar fifth wheel and a Dutch Star, the quality seemed good on both. I've always been interested in the Tiffin Phaetons, although I know little about them. We'll research this purchase, if indeed we make the change.

we've owned two Winnebago motorhomes since 1986 (1985 26' Winn Chieftain 1986-2000, 2000 35' Itasca Suncruiser 2000-present) and we are now looking for our 3rd Winnebago MH (2015 Itasca Suncruiser). we are very happy repeat customers.

Texas Roadrunner wrote:
Sailor, we know so little about motor homes, we were just thinking that possibly there might be some better quality control. This might be flawed thinking, and we are at the beginning of a "maybe" purchase. We have friends who had both a Newmar fifth wheel and a Dutch Star, the quality seemed good on both. I've always been interested in the Tiffin Phaetons, although I know little about them. We'll research this purchase, if indeed we make the change.

You will get a lot of opinions but there is no real data on motorhome quality. IMO the entire RV industry has some quality issues. Even the better manufacturers seem to make a dog on occasion. From the two you mentioned, I believe Newmar has the better quality out the door. Newmar also offers factory delivery for a new coach and, IMO, that is the only way to buy a new class A.

We are on our third motorhome and they all need fixing and tweaking. I believe motorhomes are for those who accept that and are willing and able to do some of their own repairs. Not unlike owning a home, there seems to always be something to fix and, if you are not willing or able to pay someone else to fix everything, you must be willing and able to do some fixin' yourself.

AllegroD wrote:
Bob Tiffin is still in charge of Tiffin, but for how much longer. Great company, under Bob.

Yes but I have heard some serious complaints. I know he deals with most. Biggest complaint is flat roof with water having to be swept off in heavy rains. My MH is crowned. Just saying when shopping you have to look at the whole package. Other complaint is cheapo induction stove in Allegro bus. They aren't going to change it. Comes with the bus. Too bad if it is junk. Many have just been biting the bullet and switching them out at their own expense.

Sailor, we know so little about motor homes, we were just thinking that possibly there might be some better quality control. This might be flawed thinking, and we are at the beginning of a "maybe" purchase. We have friends who had both a Newmar fifth wheel and a Dutch Star, the quality seemed good on both. I've always been interested in the Tiffin Phaetons, although I know little about them. We'll research this purchase, if indeed we make the change.

I think about 10 years ago Bob retired and his son took it over and things started to go down hill so he came back to run things again.

There are many, but that does not necessarily make the coaches better.

Just go out and find what coach you like and go from there. You got to remember that every company will have their entry level coaches, but they will also have middle and high end coaches with the same company name, only different level brand. Try and stay away from the entry level if you want quality cabinets and all the amenities that go with a flag ship coach. There is a lot of difference.

Bob Tiffin is still in charge of Tiffin, but for how much longer. Great company, under Bob.

Tiffin is family owned but having their share of problems since daughter took over. I wouldn't rule out any MH until you see it and check the quality. I looked at a high end MH last week. They installed a cheapo induction stove. You really have to look at the whole package. JMHO

Newell I think is still own by the Blade family. They did not start it but have own it since 1979 at lease. We took a tour back in 85.


Web page shows that Marathoncoach is own by Schoellhorn family since 1992.

BORNFREE is a family company ,had one for five years excellant rv. one of the top ten imho.