bnanewbie wrote:
I first of would like to say that I am new to this site as of an hour or so ago. I have been thinking of getting a travel trailer on winter long. I have a Ford F150XLT 4x4. (truck paperwork says will tow up to 8100).
I would really appreciate advice/feedback from those that know about travel trailers or have one...
1. Is there anything specific I need to keep in mind or look out for?
2. I see stickers on travel trailers that tell me a weight. Is this the actual weight of the trailer? I saw one today that the manufacturer sticker said 7690 or something like that and there was another sticker stating the unit had been certified at 4800. How could there be that much difference?
3. Do all trailers come with HD over the air antennas?
4. Do travel trailers have some sort of water filter system? I am reading that most campgrounds have water hook up and just wondered if that is good to drink or if you need to filter it...
5. Most campgrounds seem to show they have 30 or 60 amp spots available. What does that mean to me? I have no idea haha.
6. I normally never buy a new car because the value decrease that happens...should that be the same thought with travel trailers? Are there any pros/cons to buying new versus used?
ANy help would be appreciated. I can't wait to get a travel trailer. We don't have kids so I was thinking of a rear living model.
Scott
I'll answer only the questions i have had experience with:
1. Size of truck and size of trailer? I prefer 3/4 or 1 ton diesel trucks if $$ in the budget. What kind of RVing are you planning for you and the family? Long trips i.e. 2 to 5K miles or just short week end trips. How many trips are you planning on taking in a year. How many in your family/friends will determine size/length/weight of trailer you will need. Long cross country trips can have you traveling over mountains with elevation, thus you need more power to maintain a normal driving speed. I am not familiar with the F150 so don't know if it has enough power. I have always had a 3/4 or currenty a 1 ton truck to tow a 26' 5th. wheel , 32' TT and currently a 34' 5th. wheel. Going over mt. passes at th 4K to 6K elevation made the 3/4 diesel truck work
2. you need a good external H20 filter for health and taste reasons. If your trailer has filters under the sink be sure and replace them as soon as you buy your trailer.
3. Used or new. Buy one with at least 1 slide out. A used trailer/5th wheel is financially my first choice. BUT BUT only if you take the trailer and have it thoroughly inspected or do it yourself if you have the skills for structure and all systems, electrical, plumbing, heater, air conditioner, slides. If you have got the $$$ and it is not an issue with your family budget---for a new one:)
Check all the tires for mfg. date,( look on side of each tire) if older than 3 years-- buy new ones and have all the wheel bearings packed before you take your first trip.
4. buy a Emergency Road Side Service plan before you take off for your 1st. trip
