TUCQUALA wrote:
In our 280RKS (and all newer trailers) . . .
Baja Man wrote:
. . . Considering late model (2014+) Jaycos.... 28BHBE and 32BHDS. Used prices are around $15K-$20K
During my search I ran into a 2016 Outdoor RV Timber Ridge 280RKS. $32K is asking price. Did a little research and found it to be pretty well made.
What can those of you who own, or have owned, these models share about the Outdoor Timber Ridge 280RKS compared to Jayco Jay Flights?
Baja Man wrote:
. . . We're debating a 2014-2016 Jayco JayFlight 32BHDS for $22K used
OR
2016 Outdoors RV Timber Ridge 280RKS for $30K It has a Hide A Bed and large U shaped dinette and 2 nice swiveling recliners. Wonder if making up dinette and Hide A Bed every night and morning will become too much of a chore. It's not like we're living in it, but not sure how that process would pan out.
We were seriously trying to work deals on a 2018 ORV 280RKS (Mountain Series) throughout the western US. Quickly discovered that most dealers (especially in the NW) order it with 30 amp service---which leaves you with no upgrade path for a 2nd a/c. This is a 33 ft. trailer. One a/c probably won't cut it when temps are 115 degrees in the desert SW---even with the ORV's standard 2" insulation and double-paned windows. Prices, after a little haggling, varied from $40k to $45k (MSRP $51k - $53k including freight), all had no 2nd a/c, manual scissor jacks, and a "1/2/3" warranty (1-year hitch to bumper).
Jayco makes the Eagle HT 306RKDS (about 35 ft) which has the same floorplan as the 280RKS. Interior decor and color selection is also very similar. The 306RKDS typically comes with 50 amp service and 2 a/c units. As for contruction quality, it's hit or miss with the Jayco Eagles. I've seen some that are excellent, on par with the ORV, and some that were obviously made on a Mon or Fri. In any event, we found a new 2018 Jayco Eagle HT 306RKDS with 50 amp service, 2nd a/c (both a/c's ducted together), solid countertop with upgraded residential sink/faucet, frameless windows, 4-corner electric stabilizers, Cree equalizers, rear receiver hitch, 16" E-rated Good Year tires, 6-bolt 5145 lb. axles, and a 2-year warranty. It was priced at $29k at CW (total price without TTL)! A deal we couldn't walk away from. Typically they're discounted to $34k - $36k (with an MSRP $46k - $49k including freight). While doing some electrical mods, we pulled off various panels, opened the underbelly, and removed the power center on our 306RKDS. Ran some 2/0 cable, installed an inverter, EMS, transfer switch, and GC2 batteries---very impressed with the overall build quality. I'm convinced this unit was made on a Wed--lol! It was obvious a trained electrician installed the wiring into the power center, it was neat, bundled, and well labeled. This is our 4th trailer, so we've seen the good, bad, and the ugly.
We saved $11k-$12k vs. the ORV 280RKS. For our needs the Jayco Eagle HT 306RKDS offered more functionality for a lot less money. Granted, ORV, overall, probably has better quality control and build quality, but don't rule out the Jayco Eagles (FYI, the Flight, Feather and Whitehawk lines are totally different). If you can find one made on a Wed . . . discounted . . . they have the potential to offer outstanding value.
