Forum Discussion

mpang14's avatar
mpang14
Explorer
Apr 02, 2014

My exhaustive TT search

So I've been looking at tons of trailers. There are so many nice ones out there. My family has finally settled on a floorplan and now I'm trying narrow down which brand. My top choices are (in no particular order):

1. Keystone Premier 31BHPR
2. Cruiser RV Shadow Cruiser 313BHS
3. Coachmen Freedom Express 310BHDS
4. Heartland Wilderness 3150DS
5. Jayco Whitehawk 31DSLB

The Jayco Whitehawk I found is a 2013 model so I can get a better deal on it. But the floorplan isn't perfect as it has less room in the bunkhouse.

Can anyone give me insight or information on those brands/models? Anything I should stay away from?

BTW TV is a F-250 PS.

Thanks!
  • AirForceAngler's avatar
    AirForceAngler
    Explorer
    Apr 02, 2014
    From the ones you mentioned, I'd go with the Jayco. Most Jaycos I've seen/owned just seem to be built a little better than most others.
  • rbpru's avatar
    rbpru
    Explorer II
    Apr 02, 2014
    Take a hard look at the floor plan. Modifications may not be all that easy later. Also double check the suitability of the TV.
  • aarond76's avatar
    aarond76
    Explorer
    Apr 02, 2014
    If you are already questioning the Jayco floorplan then stay away from it. The sour taste of not having the floor plan you really want will stay with you long after the joy of getting a good deal has worn off.

    I have no experience but general consensus seems that RV pricing in California is quite high compared to the rest of the county. Many people have driven to the Midwest to buy from RV Wholesalers, Holman, and others and saved upwards of $5k doing so after travel expenses.
  • mpang14's avatar
    mpang14
    Explorer
    Apr 02, 2014
    Edited original post to include TV. Should have done that from the start.

    I need to go and have a look at the floorplan of the Jayco to see how much different it really is. I really just want and area where the kids can have their own space to play or relax.

    I wish I could take the time to drive to RVWholesalers or Holman, the furthest I could realistically go is maybe Oregon, Utah, Colorado.
  • des04004's avatar
    des04004
    Explorer
    Apr 02, 2014
    We went with a 2014 Jayco Jay Flight 32TSBH and it has a huge bunk room in the back. We got it with fiberglass siding and love it. We also liked the 32BHDS but it came down to the dealer having the 32TSBH in stock first.
  • jeshoffstall's avatar
    jeshoffstall
    Explorer
    Apr 02, 2014
    Based on what I have seen and learned from others on the interweb, I would narrow the list to 1, 4 and 5. We have been very happy with our Flagstaff (Forest River), the interior seems very nice to us. Not to add to your list but they do have a 831BHDSyou may want to consider.

    I am sure Rockwood makes the same floor plan and they can be had on RV direct.

    Forest River offers a second full year of warranty for $200, although we did not have to use it.

    Good luck!
  • aarond76's avatar
    aarond76
    Explorer
    Apr 02, 2014
    At a recent RV show, the Jayco's really stood out to me as being more substantial and felt better built than they others. The Jayco on your list is an Ultra Light, no need for that with the F-250. Have you looked at the Jayco Jay Flight and the Jayco Eagle to see if they have a floor plan you like?
  • mpang14's avatar
    mpang14
    Explorer
    Apr 02, 2014
    I'd like to stay around 6500 lbs dry. I just feel more comfortable with that weight and I've been looking at the new F-150 so I don't want to max that out if I have to get a new TV.
  • Andym133's avatar
    Andym133
    Explorer
    Apr 02, 2014
    Friend of mine just bought a Keystone. The slide on the trailer was manufactured too small and caused problems with the rubber (only 1/4" clearance) After months of back and forth discussion along with Keystones expert coming to look at the trailer it was determined they had made a mistake. Now they don't want to replace the trailer or properly fix it. He purchase an all aluminum frame trailer and they want to cut out the header and add wood. Long story short they don't want to do the right thing. I will never purchase a Keystone product.
    For all Keystone owners who are happy, Bless your heart.

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