RV manufacturers, I am calling you out

colliehauler wrote:

js6343js6343 wrote:
A couple retorts to the above:

1) I lump all TTs together. Well you are mostly right, I do. But let me clarify. My experience looking at other travel trailers and from close inspection at several RV shows, I can clearly see they are mostly made from the exact same materials (probably mostly China) and the very same production methods. As far as I can tell there may be a few exceptions (Air Stream, some say arctic fox), but VERY few. My opinion is that my conclusions are absolutely valid though they are admittedly based on one man's honest experience.

2) Even if my RV makes me miserable (occasionally). My kids LOVE it. And my kids are the single most important thing. Also since I am already invested, my decision is to live with it. My primary goal with this rant thread is not to just gripe. Though I will admit that the initial gripe did make me feel good for about 5 minutes. My REAL goal is to stimulate real discussion on a real problem. And cause even just a single consumer to think twice before investing money in these rip offs.

I will have to respectfully disagree with you, there are all kinds of different construction technics in the RV industry. Look up Oliver built in Tennessee for molded fiberlass type campers. Some campers have improved materials such as Living light with sold aluminum construction. Others use Azdel instead of luan which is waterproof such as Lance and Winnebago.

Look at the factory direct RV'S as well. With there limited production runs the quality is considerably better. Forks RV, New Horizon, Augusta RV, Spacecraft mfg. Take a factory tour and actually see how there built instead of going to a RV show. With New Horizon (you can talk with the owner) try doing that at Forest River or Thor. The president of a large mfg proudly proclaimed they built more RV'S in a week then New Horizon builds in a year. Some mfg still take pride in there products.

Look up the thread on RV net where a individual took pictures of his new Oliver being built and tell me it's not superior construction to most RV'S.

It's up to you to educate yourself and the blanket statement they are all built the same is simply not true. If you only look at the major mfg you are limiting your choices and will probably get more of the same.

I do agree that a person should go into this with there eyes wide open and educate yourself before you buy, not after.

I'm glad your kids love to go camping it will provide them with a lot of good memories and that's really what's it all about.

I take your point. I cannot with authority attest to the lack of quality in every TT manufacturer. I have not personally owned every brand. However, after owning my RV for six years, attending many RV shows and observing the experiences of many others, I find no evidence for systemic quality in RV products. For those who have found it in their particular brand or purchase, I celebrate your success. For others who are in the market my opinion is that the odds are stacked against you.

Maybe one day, as I get "educated" my opinion will change. But I am not betting on it.

In the meantime we can agree to disagree. If we really are disagreeing. :)