What to look for in a Class C?

DrewE wrote:

ebaca33 wrote:

Thanks for the ideas! We have a combo thermostat in our trailer and I hadn't thought about checking now that we're shopping again. I am not a big fan of windows over the cab. One of my kids will be sleeping up there and I just don't like the idea of those windows right next to their bed.

One advantage of the overcab windows (particularly the side ones that typically are sliders) is that you can get some nice ventilation in that area with them. Without them, even with a roof vent, it can get kind of stuffy above the cab with the curtain drawn.

I'm not entirely sure what worries you about windows near sleeping kids. You can't, or at least shouldn't, use the overcab bunk for sleeping or whatever while driving for obvious reasons.

Do make sure you check on the cargo carrying capacity (weight capacity, not just storage room). Some class C's leave very, very little carrying capacity. Some old ones even left the factory overloaded before adding any people or supplies or water, but I don't think any relatively modern ones are that bad.

Also check the wheelbase to overall length ratio. If the wheelbase is too short, handling can be problematic. A minimum of around 55% is suggested, if I remember correctly.

With a slide, pay attention to accessibility of things with the slide retracted. I wouldn't want a unit where I had to extend the slide to get into the bathroom or fridge. Ideally, of course, everything would be accessible. (By the same token, make sure the driver's seat can slide back sufficiently for you with the slide retracted!)

A clear line of sight to a back window is nice to have; get one of the stick-on fresnel lenses. A rear view camera works nicely, too.

Good info on the slide, we are looking for a slide so that is good to think about.

I hadn't really thought about the ventilation over the cab. I think we'll look for one with the side windows. It's likely my 13 year old would sleep up there, but I have a couple mischievous little guys. Now that I think about it, we do have a window in the top bunk in our trailer and that hasn't ever been an issue. Oh and my kids would absolutely not be up there while driving :)

Is the fresnel lens that large magnifying glass looking square? My husband liked the one we were intending on buying at CW because it had a straight line of sight.