Forum Discussion

Control_Freak's avatar
May 30, 2019

First RV

My spouse and I are looking at purchasing our first RV, he grew up camping, I did not....

We have a 2019 Chevy Silverado 6.2L with max trailering, manufacturers tow rating of 12,200 pounds and are looking At travel trailers, the two models were specifically interested in are prime time lacrosse 3311rk and outback 341rd, we both prefer the floor plan of the outback, but have heard the quality isn’t all that great but we e also heard that pretty much all brands can have significant problems.

I’ve read the horror stories and they seem to be pretty even around the board, how to I protect myself from buying a “lemon?” Or what pitfalls should I avoid. I REALLY don’t want to jump all in to be riddled with a huge headache.

Any advice for this potential newbie is welcome and appreciated!

67 Replies

  • check your weight math. I suspect you don't have the payload to tow what you think you can. that 12200 doesn't mean anything. with a travel trailer you will run out of payload long before you hit that number.
  • Pursuant to the above post, IMO best way to not get a "lemon" or at very least have to put up with multiple warranty fixes, buy newer used, private party, where you can get the repair history from the original owner. Preferably older person who is meticulous. (You can tell when you talk to someone )
    Most "problems" are assembly quality issues or stuff that pops up when the rv is new. Again, IMO. Have friends and family that have bought quite a few new RVs. Seems most of the issues are first year/uses.

    Wouldn't deter me from buying new though. Look at fit n finish. If everything works and it looks good then it'll be ok.
  • Try to find a late model used trailer. A lot cheaper than a new rv and you will save a lot of money???? Do not buy any Extended warranty plan, waste of money?? before you buy the rv, take it to a good rv shop and have it completely checked out to make sure all the systems work.
  • To amplify Ken, my Tahoe is rated to “pull” 8500 pounds. I wouldn’t go over 6000.
  • Do not plan on towing any thing near 12,200 lbs. Learn and understand about GVWR, GAWR and GCWR.

    I would say you trailer looking should be restricted to no more than 9600 lbs.as a maximum GVWR for the trailer.

    Ken
  • The 'small things' you fix youself - get good at it. The major things the dealer or mfgr should fix (fridge, heater, elect system) ... again, get good at fixing (small repairs) your RV and you'll love it. Read the reviews (not the dealer sales/site reviews, but other reviews sites

    Most are in reasonable shape, learn how to take care of it - because after the warrenty (such as it is) you'll need to fix minor issues. Leave major issues to the Pros. Just enjoy it ... pick a good one. Listen to RV.net about what you choose - ask questions, listen to the answers. Pick those posters that seem knowlegeable. Ignore the rest. Good luck...
  • You should be ok but what’s your truck’s payload and what/who will you be carrying in the truck? Outback will be 1400 pounds of tongue weight plus hitch.