This sums it up for the status of the RV industry now

I'll have to agree with the most of it and have noticed the cheapness in some new lower end units. Then again, the gleam sells and look at the price and brand new at that.
Our new to us, as of last week is out in the driveway and we've spent everyday out there with it, in preparation, which isn't just getting moved in.
Just hope we bought it old enough...lol and must say after much research, I believe we have a quality rig here and just hoping it will serve us well, once we get everything taken care of.

WyoTraveler wrote:
True buying used has its advantages. However, I buy new and dump it quck if I have major problem. Like I did my Jayco. Buying from private owner probably the best quality and deals. Being a farmer I never knew a farmer that sold a good tractor. I suspect there are good used deals out there.

"Being a farmer I never knew a farmer that sold a good tractor."

I am going to use that!

I agree with a lot of what he says but also agree that some of what he says is not entirely accurate. There is a cost to quality and coaches that are better built do cost a lot more than the junk rigs.

I do agree that RV manufacturers need to develop stronger dealer relationships and networks. And it is true that, even with the better brands, there is too much finger pointing and hand offs when there are issues with things the maker of the box did not build.

Bottom line, I believe the RV industry will do OK until the economy tanks again.... and it will. Also, as long as there are ill informed buyers (and there are many) who buy for glitz, auto everything, IPads that turn your lights on, and swirly paint, the industry will still sell a bunch.

I would never consider purchasing any of those brands mentioned except the Winnebago with 13 pillows. That's weak to criticize Winnebago because they have 13 pillows in one model! Donate 11 pillows to Goodwill and the problem is solved.

All you hear on here are the moans of the dissatisfied.

We're full-time in a two year plus old rig. Purchased new. Never been back to the dealer.

It's well known dissatisfied people communicate about it much more than satisfied people do.

Wow! the first example cited was a fifth wheel rated for 18,000 pounds and the perplexed owners added up the three 5200 pound axles and decided they had been sold a product that was not rated for 18,000 pounds. How ridiculous and clueless this is as the pin takes 20-25 percent of the weight. It really is rated for 18,000 pounds, some of that weight is not on the axles. This is very basic stuff. No argument that quality control could be a little better, but overall the article is a little negative at a time the industry is thriving.

While some valid points are made, the author does show some lack of knowledge when he blames the RV manufactures for the in tank fuel pumps. He needs to learn the difference between coach and chassis.

Richard

True buying used has its advantages. However, I buy new and dump it quck if I have major problem. Like I did my Jayco. Buying from private owner probably the best quality and deals. Being a farmer I never knew a farmer that sold a good tractor. I suspect there are good used deals out there.

Good article... Unfortunately a lot of truths in it. My next purchase will definitely be used so I will have a better idea of what has already been repaired ;)