Downsizing from a Class A

[tommy_salmon]

Seriously looking at downsizing from our Winnebago Class A to a Class C. We are happy with the quality and support of the Winnebago, just not the size, so we are predisposed towards Winnebago products, specifically the Winnie Mini 22M. Looking for less than 30 feet, walk around bed, need the cabover bed for our adult son who still goes with us sometimes and has to have a generator for the occasional boondocking trips. We are partial to Winnebago, but not committed, so what others should we consider? Also, can anyone tell me the differences between the Winnebago Mini Winnie, Spirit, and Outlook? All have the same basic floor plan. We are not fancy people, but we don't want the plain jane vanilla version either. I typically will be towing our 2018 Jeep Wrangler Unlimited Rubicon on nearly every trip. The Jeep is more important than the motorhome for a lot of our trips (serious 4 wheeling) so not towing the Jeep is NOT an option, regardless of how well the motorhome drives or parks, so please don't suggest a Sprinter based motorhome unless you KNOW that it's capable of towing a 4 door Jeep Wrangler through the Rockies.

[Solo]

rockhillmanor wrote:


And you will be surprised how much nicer the handling and driving is on a Class C.

The OP did not mention what model of Class A Winnebago that he currently has but, there is a very significant difference between the "handling and driving" of my DP compared to our formerly owned 24' E450 motorhome so it would be difficult to make a blanket statement about Class C vs. Class A. We towed our TJ Jeep through the Rockies many times and the V10 did a fine job and we appreciated the maneuverability of the 24' RV but, the handling and power of our DP is superior. If the OP is coming from a gas powered Class A, then they understand what limitations it will have at altitude. We loved our smaller Winnebago E450 Class C and owned it for 10 years. However, it's power and handling was poor in comparison.

[rockhillmanor]

tommy salmon wrote:
....Looking at some other brands the last couple of days (Thor Quantum, Jayco Redhawk, Entegra, and Freedom Elite). Thor Quantum GR22 seemed really nice. We test drove it, and were really pleased with the road manners vs our Winnebago Class A. We might consider something in the 26 to 30 foot range based upon how well the Thor Quantum GR22 drove, but we really want to stay in the smaller range. I think I remember seeing on this site that Thor was not very high quality, but from what I saw today that does not seem to be the case? ...

As I mentioned I have a Four Winds which IS Thor. In my comparisons I found them to be of 'higher' quality than the other brands which is why I purchased a Thor Four Winds. I was a cash buyer, money was no object. I spent a year looking at all the manufacturers. And IMHO Four Winds won hands down.

Something else to always Check for is the cabinets and drawers. On the Thor they are SOLID wood. REAL drawer mechanisms tracks and wheels.

Many of the other brands even the higher end of their brands have laminate fake wood on particle board. Those cabinets sniff even the slightest moisture and they blow apart.

Btw, Look for the SD450 chassis. Makes a BIG difference on handling versus the 350. IMHO I would never buy a 31ft on a 350. MAny that have bought a 350 chassis are always adding airbags changing the leaf springs, shocks, etc etc etc to improve handling and ride. No need for that on the 450.

If you are looking at new the inept rv salemen rarely point the chassis difference out to the customer as they are looking at models because they want you to buy the one they are showing you. I haven't look at new ones lately but it should have the insignia on the front fender what chassis it is.

Also check where the gen exhausts and furnace exhaust. I have actually seen them exhaust the gen on the side where the you sit under the awning!

[tommy_salmon]

Thanks for your replies. Not interested in used, unless BARELY used, and not at all interested in a used rental. Looking at some other brands the last couple of days (Thor Quantum, Jayco Redhawk, Entegra, and Freedom Elite). Thor Quantum GR22 seemed really nice. We test drove it, and were really pleased with the road manners vs our Winnebago Class A. We might consider something in the 26 to 30 foot range based upon how well the Thor Quantum GR22 drove, but we really want to stay in the smaller range. I think I remember seeing on this site that Thor was not very high quality, but from what I saw today that does not seem to be the case? Jayco and Entegra front caps seem like a great idea, but I don't like the dealership in my area that sells them, so would have to buy from another dealership or grit my teeth and buy from a company that I have strong feelings against the owner. We will continue the search, and look forward to your replies and advice/suggestions.

[rockhillmanor]

I spent a year looking for a 24 ft. with a doable floor plan, ample storage bays and never did find one!

Long story short I ended up with a 31ft with a Ford V10 and never looked back. Best decision I've ever made regarding an RV. 🙂

[camperdave]

Specifically regarding the 22m, having to fold the master bed in half to put in the slide would be an issue for me. It's nice to be able to keep the main bed made all the time, not to mention being able to sleep with the slide in.

[IAMICHABOD]

D.E.Bishop wrote:

garyemunson wrote:
I'd REALLY suggest you go to El Monte or Cruise America and rent one of their Class Cs for a trip before you make your move. The tight foot space in the passenger seat was why we 'graduated' to a class A. We do travel more than most so the lack of room was a real nuisance to us. Also class C passenger seats will not recline as much as class As because the seat hits the wall that forms the front of the coach area. Cs do drive and ride a lot better but the passenger comfort was a real issue for us. If you find a used Chevy based C it will have more room but they are disappearing fast.

Do an advanced search for IAMICHABOD, He has a former rental and did a lot of research about "C"s and Chevy VS Ford. Good blog on buying rental. I know you like Winnie but this is just FYI, not a suggestion you buy a rental. When we downsize, I'll go Winnie again.

Thanks D.E,I will help out the OP :B

The one about Class C on a Chevy Chassis

Here is the one on Rentals

The last RV I had was a Winnebago,believe me if I could have found one that met my needs and budget I would have bought it.

[D_E_Bishop]

garyemunson wrote:
I'd REALLY suggest you go to El Monte or Cruise America and rent one of their Class Cs for a trip before you make your move. The tight foot space in the passenger seat was why we 'graduated' to a class A. We do travel more than most so the lack of room was a real nuisance to us. Also class C passenger seats will not recline as much as class As because the seat hits the wall that forms the front of the coach area. Cs do drive and ride a lot better but the passenger comfort was a real issue for us. If you find a used Chevy based C it will have more room but they are disappearing fast.

Do an advanced search for IAMICHABOD, He has a former rental and did a lot of research about "C"s and Chevy VS Ford. Good blog on buying rental. I know you like Winnie but this is just FYI, not a suggestion you buy a rental. When we downsize, I'll go Winnie again.

[garyemunson]

I'd REALLY suggest you go to El Monte or Cruise America and rent one of their Class Cs for a trip before you make your move. The tight foot space in the passenger seat was why we 'graduated' to a class A. We do travel more than most so the lack of room was a real nuisance to us. Also class C passenger seats will not recline as much as class As because the seat hits the wall that forms the front of the coach area. Cs do drive and ride a lot better but the passenger comfort was a real issue for us. If you find a used Chevy based C it will have more room but they are disappearing fast.

[gbopp]

rockhillmanor wrote:
Coming from your spacious Class A IMHO you will NOT be happy with a 24 ft. I.E. corner bed and real small bathroom limited amount of storage bays.

A corner bed would be a deal breaker for me.

[rockhillmanor]

You will need to be looking at the 31 ft Class C.

Coming from your spacious Class A IMHO you will NOT be happy with a 24 ft. I.E. corner bed and real small bathroom limited amount of storage bays.

The 31 or some call it a 29 will give you a queen walk around bed. And many offer the split bathroom which gives you the spacious and tall glass surround shower with skylight. And more storage bays.

Don't know if they still offer a basement model but again you will be happier with one. On my Four Winds it offers a real sewage bay like an A.

I have a Four Winds 31ft basement model split bathroom. And it gives you a very open feeling from front to back. Many of my friends with A's say it looks more spacious than their A does. Especially the ones with the layout that has small hallways.

I know you are partial to the Winnebago but my friends that have a Winnie 31 ft Class C say mine has a much better layout with more room.

So, that all said take the time to check out the "Four Winds" line. You will find the layouts much more user friendly and more spacious which would make your transition easier. And 'numerous' models to choose from.

Don't know what engine your A has but I am now a firm believer and advocate for the Ford V10, power that never lets you down especially if your are towing a toad!

And you will be surprised how much nicer the handling and driving is on a Class C.

Hope you find the just right MH for your family. :C