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tbuchner1020's avatar
tbuchner1020
Explorer
Mar 22, 2015

Thoughts on Dutchmen Kodiak Express 222ES

Looking for any thoughts on the Dutchmen Kodiak Express 222ES. We are debating buying the 2015 version, but there isn't much out there in the way of reviews on these. Any comments or reviews would be appreciated. Thank you!

3 Replies

  • The Express 222ES appears to be a hybrid trailer, you might get more owner experiences on the Hybrid section page. You should ensure you are OK with the plus and negatives of owing a hybrid trailer. We owned one and eventually moved away from it due to the negatives. It'e certainly a personal preference.

    Main thing to watch for with hybrids are leaks in the front bunks, especially towing in the rain. Our 2007 Kodiak hybrid leaked like that, even after a warranty repair, but this issue has plagued many hybrids, not just Kodiak. I believe things have come a long way in terms on front bunk leaks, but it still should be watched.

    In terms of our Dutchmen/Kodiak trailer quality, we have had very few issues (leak at the side outdoor kitchen door and peeling front decals) that were easily fixed by the manufacturer. Dutchmen is owned by Thor, who also own Keystone and many other trailer brands so someone saying there aren't well made could generalize that half the trailers out there aren't good. You will find particular good models with no issues, and sometimes some with issues. You usually don't hear about the ones that dont have issues :B Still you will likely find a bunch of Dutchmen haters likely based on older models.
    http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Thor_Industries

    Good luck.
  • We just bought a Dutchmen Kodiak 291RESL. Floor plan is great with many great features. Quality from the factory leaves much to be desired. Fridge leaked ammonia, seals were torn around the slides. Remote control system for the slides was inoperative. The slide through storage area doors leaked. It has been one problem after another. All the problems have been fixed, but it is a hassle driving 90 miles to leave my unit for warranty fixes. Wrote the company and got a thanks and nothing else. Customer service doesnt seem to be high on their priority.

    Good luck!
  • We owned a Dutchmen for 3 years. Not a hint of trouble. Only reason we traded was because of the floor plan. (corner bed, crawling over each other, no oven, and front couch along the nose cap. We could never truly sit upright on the couch). Good camper, but after 3 years 3 years, it just didn't work for us any more. See my profile (left) for a photo of it.