Going from 38' diesel pusher to a small 5th wheel ????

[supercub]

I've always had Class A motor homes, gas and diesel. I currently have a 38' diesel pusher and I really enjoy it. With that said, I've been thinking of maybe downsizing to a small (under 25ft) 5th wheel. Has anyone made such a move? Would love to hear your feelings about such a change. Anyone else have any comments, would like to hear all the pros and cons. Reason I may make the change is to use some of the money I have tied up in the diesel for another project. I own the diesel outright. Thanks
Brian

[valhalla360]

Below 25' I don't think 5th wheels make as much sense. They don't have the storage like the larger units have and they eat up the storage in the truck bed with the hitch. Also, most are crawl in front beds.

On the positive side most are legitimately 1/2 ton towable.

In that size, I think a bumper pull makes more sense. Greater selection both in terms of trailer and in terms of tow vehicle that will do the job.

Assuming you go with similar age, it will likely be a good deal cheaper (5th or TT). It's not a fair comparison to take a 2004 MH and compare it to a brand new truck and trailer. If you shop around $20-25k should get you truck and trailer 2010ish in good condition (assuming you don't have the truck already). Ongoing maintenance is likely much cheaper.

[alexleblanc]

my nearly 34' Fifth wheel tows like a 23-24ft tow behind in terms of overall length, and it most likely has about the same amount of living space as your 38ft DP - go check out some layouts and see what's out there.

for the record, I have yet to find a campground anywhere in the northeast or mid atlantic that could not accommodate us.

[Me_Again]

Triker33 wrote:
That diesel 38B is worth $62,250 average retail.
Sell it for that may be possible, but probably bring a lot less.
Low retail is 53K.

New TV for a 25' 5er may be around 40K or more. add the 5er price and they probably won't be much left for the other project.

What he said! ^^^^

Given that is behind us, Arctic Fox made some nice shorter 5th wheels a few years back. Going to short will not be attractive to that lady that you are looking to share travels with!

Chris

[Triker33]

That diesel 38B is worth $62,250 average retail.
Sell it for that may be possible, but probably bring a lot less.
Low retail is 53K.

New TV for a 25' 5er may be around 40K or more. add the 5er price and they probably won't be much left for the other project.

[laknox]

samsontdog wrote:
The first time you use the 5th w you will regret going from a large MH to a small RV IMHO

I can't disagree, even though I've never had a MH of any size. +/- 30' is my "comfort zone" on FWs.

Lyle

[MarkTwain]

Going to 25' 5th. wheel---
Just a side note, most common 5th. wheels are around the 30' to 34' range. But remember that a 30' 5th. wheel will actually be approx. 26' in towing length because of the hitch being located about 4' in side the bed of the truck.

[Durb]

All of our moves have been to upsize however I really miss the smaller bumper tow that we used to have. Our 30' 5er is very comfortable for short to medium duration trips. Knock off another 5 feet and I'm thinking probably not. For us, we have no desire to go larger. The additional places you would be able to take it would be a big plus and if fuel economy is an issue another plus.

Hope you have your eye on a used one as there aren't many 25 ft. fifth wheels now days. Maybe Escape 5.0TA but really small. If you are looking used and that short they may not fit on a newer truck. Good luck with your decision.

[Gonzo42]

I'd love to have a DP. So what is it about yours you don't like?

[lee_worsdell]

I went from a 40ft pusher to a 35ft fver now up to 41ft. Lot more space just not a easy to travel if you have long distances to travel.

[samsontdog]

The first time you use the 5th w you will regret going from a large MH to a small RV IMHO

[Lwiddis]

If you believe you will be happy...up to you. Do you have a TV or will you need to purchase one?