Picking up New 5th Wheel

[Boxer_Lovers]

After many changes in plans, disappointments and surprises, we're finally going to take delivery of a new fifth wheel this week in anticipation of spending more time on the road after I retire at the end of the year.

We've selected a 2013 DRV Tradition, 385RSS, three side unit from Wheels RV in Springdale, AR. We've been happy with our 2007 Select Suites. The Select has been discontinued and replaced by the Tradition as DRV's entry level coach. It would have been great to jump into a Mobile Suite, but the price bridge was just more than we wanted to cross.

I researched the differences between the Mobile and Tradition, and there are differences, as there should be for a $40k spread in price, but the unit is built by DRV,formerlly Doubletree RV, and they don't build junk, so I'm confident it will make for a good long lasting rig.

Weight is the main issue. The Tradition goes back to a 96" wide stance as opposed to the 102" for the Mobile. With three slides you really don't miss the extra 6", but you appreciate the weight you've saved. DRV's have always been well built, very heavy rigs. The Tradition tips the scale at just under 12,000 lbs. empty with a 17,000 lb. GVWR. Most importantly the pin weight is under 2,900 pounds compared to well over 3,500 for a Mobile Suites. That's pushing many one ton truck's rear axle weight limit.

I read the specs of both units and on R Values, the Suite tops the Tradition only on wall R Values, R-15 to R-11. Floor and ceiling are rated the same. Thermopane windows are standard, so the comfort level should be very comparable.

We're getting full body paint, cherry hardwood cabinetry and trim, residential carpet and pad, nice vinyl tile, king bed, convection microwave, heat pump, Lane leather recliners and sofa, solid surface counters, 48" long shower/tub combination, indirect lighting, Splendide combo (which I already had),one touch level up system, and more. Can you tell I'm excited?

See you on the road.

[trulya4season]

Hope all has been great with your Tradition. I have been doing exhaustive DD, and for the price point I'm locked onto this coach. My main concerns were the thinner walls, frame strength and running gear, i.e; smaller single frame, drum brakes, axle and tire weight ratings. Do these seem more than adequate in your opinion? Have you experienced any freezing cold weather and has all the water lines and valves been ok?
Thanks,
No rv yet but looking hard for the right one.

[buc1980]

Can you tell us how much it cost?

[cdlaine]

Dave,

Nice. I appreciate you sharing the evaluation process and
the rational decision making that went in to your purchase.
Well done. The rig next to mine in covered parking matches
yours... up close it has presence. Beautiful. Enjoy.

Charles

[ken_white]

Nice...

🙂

We have been looking at the 360RSS and should be picking it up at the end of the month...

[YnotTurbo]

Congrats with you new purchase. Post some pictures once you take delivery. DRV's are heavy for sure....Ours is a beast...

[dennisgt60]

Wow! The DRV rigs are very nice and so is the upcomming retirement. Wishing you many happy and safe travels.

[ScottG]

Nice rig. Those are impressive R values for a RV wall - should be a big help in the heat.

[missourijan]

Congrats! So, Heath is getting to sell the Select again? Many years of safe travel to you

[JRS___B]

Dear Santa - I know what I want for Christmas (See above)

[Sundance07]

Congrats! Enjoy you're new rig.......:B

[nano]

Congrats on the new rig!