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ExpeditionEL's avatar
ExpeditionEL
Explorer
Aug 30, 2015

Good Smaller - Medium Units to Check Out and Advice

I have found out on here that with the ExpeditionEL we need to stay in under or around the 6,000 pound dry weight area. I looked at a local dealer today with my wife and the selection is somewhat confusing. We are Class A and C owners and could really use some suggestions for what to look at. I have a garage that we had for the Class A DP that the TT will stay in so it will be out of the weather when not in use.

I don't want RV troubles. I am too old and life is too short. Our luck with the Newmar brand was good. Unfortunately they do not make trailers and we are tired of the Class A and C stuff....

What are some good units to look at and what cautions would you like to warn me about in construction. Do they all have rubber roofs???? I saw aluminum stud walls and laminated walls. - is delamination a problem with TTs???. Also I saw some units with a cover underneath to protect all the stuff down there that I liked... We would like to find something reliable, bulletproof and hopefully lightly used (or new) if we can so I won't care if it sits in the garage and I don't use it sometimes. Suggestions??
  • You have indoor storage, so maintaining the seals on a rubber roof will be minimal. Just avoiding UV exposure and the elements for six months of each calendar year makes a huge difference. Since moving to OH and purchasing the Minnie, we've had indoor storage and it has made a huge difference....roof has stayed cleaner and caulking has not started to crack.

    You may want to do some research on TPO roof systems, which may be better than EDPM rubber roofs. Depending on what you decide about the two systems, it may determine what trailer you buy.

    Just like most posters, I will tell you that I'm very happy with our current trailer, which is a Winnebago Minnie. There are several trailers in the Minnie line that meet your weight requirements. Because we do take longer trips, we chose the 2201DS due to the amount of storage space and the outdoor kitchen, which is something we really wanted. Overall quality of the Winnebago line of trailers is better than average. But, the seat cushions for the dinette had poor foam cushions for the main seating in the trailer. I had the foam replaced with higher quality foam more appropriate for seat cushions and it made a huge difference!

    Other companies that I would consider would be Jayco/Starcraft (2 yr. warranties, look at upper level lines i.e. Jayco Eagle), Lance, Arctic Fox, Nash, and Outdoors MFG. But, take your time and look at a lot of different trailers and determine what will work for you.
  • 23ft Airstream Flying Cloud comes in at 6000lbs loaded. For that you get no slides think less space but also a lot less problems from leaks, rot, and de lamination. High resale value. Less maintenance. At that length can get into all state and federal parks. Good luck in whatever you choose.
  • First do not look at the "Dry Weight". Use the GVWR as a towing weight. Next are you looking for a high range TT like a Airstream or mid range like Northwood, Keystone or Jayco or a entry level like Dutchman, Forest River or Lance.

    Understand different years TT's are rated differently as far as quality, customer service etc. goes. I purchased the Travel Trailer & 5th Wheel Comparison Guide by Randall Eaton on Amazon for $70. Money well spent. Gives much detail on the various years and is an independent evaluation. Good luck
  • gypsmjim wrote:
    Don't know what small / medium means. Different people might have a different opinion.

    Look at the Jayco SLX series.


    Yep. I understand. That's why in my original post I tried to go with weight restrictions as a definition of small to medium. I am not restricted by length really..... But the weight that the Expedition will safely tow actually restricts the length probably. At least that is my guess.....

    Thank you for the suggestion and reply. I will look at those units..
  • Don't know what small / medium means. Different people might have a different opinion.

    We had a very small unit for 27 years. Just upgraded to a 19' model. It has all of the amenities and we've been more than delighted with the performance so far. Not one single issue.

    Look at the Jayco SLX series.