Thor ACE or Forrest River FR3...

[clemdog]

I've gone back and fourth on these two units and read all I can on each.

I'd love to hear from those that evaluated both and ultimately decided on one over the other and why.

What did you like? Didn't like? Advantages? Disadvantages?

Thanks in advance...

[tjholyoke]

Effy wrote:


Had that issue also, in later models they moved the genset to the rear but that took up some of the rear large passthrough. I can tell you I remedied the problem by installing a vented bin door for the genset. Thor actually approved and paid for it. Haven't had the issue since and I have driven in 90+ temps, knock on wood.

Thanks! I may call Thor and see what we can do about fixing that little annoyance. And the large rear passthrough storage was one of the key selling points for us so I am glad that the generator isn't taking part of that away.

[Effy]

tjholyoke wrote:
I also own an ACE 29.1 and have been very happy. Unfortunately, I have not looked at the Forest River model. I have looked at other FRs in the past and did not like the quality of finishes. I will say that the generator overheats when using it on a hot travel day to try to use the roof air on the road. That is the only issue we have had with it, and really only on days in the 90s and higher.

Had that issue also, in later models they moved the genset to the rear but that took up some of the rear large passthrough. I can tell you I remedied the problem by installing a vented bin door for the genset. Thor actually approved and paid for it. Haven't had the issue since and I have driven in 90+ temps, knock on wood.

[tjholyoke]

I also own an ACE 29.1 and have been very happy. Unfortunately, I have not looked at the Forest River model. I have looked at other FRs in the past and did not like the quality of finishes. I will say that the generator overheats when using it on a hot travel day to try to use the roof air on the road. That is the only issue we have had with it, and really only on days in the 90s and higher.

[clemdog]

Thanks Effy.

Anyone else willing to share?

[Effy]

I haven't dealt much with the FR3 but I have owned 2 Aces. A 29.1 and now a 29.2. The ACE came out first and it's no coincidence that the FR3 looks almost exactly like it and lot of details copied (engine bay, overhead bunk, pet doors, etc etc. Thor is pretty innovative and the ACE packs a lot of storage and is well thought out. The Décor is much nicer than the wood grain paneling in the FR3 but that's totally my opinion. I thought the FR3 felt like my parent's basement. So much wood paneling. We have had very few issues with either ACE and when we did Thor fixed/replaced quickly and without question. Now that I have the PSI set correctly and the CHF done, it handles really well and quietly especially given it's entry level roots. We are VERY happy with our ACE. Did some after market shopping when the FR3 came out and I can say with all confidence I chose correctly. Things I like about the ACE, layout, décor, storage, handling, price point, bunk mechanism, CCC and weight allowances, power to weight,. Things I don't like, 1 AC (on a hot day on the road it struggles to keep up - you won't solve the problem in either coach as they both only have one), Bin latches (would be nice to have slam latches instead of the old school turn to open - again nothing you will gain on the FR3, they are the same). Hope that helps. I know folks on here have FR3s and they seem to like them so I think it really comes own to preference. Same Chassis, same components, same basic layouts. It really comes down to a deal you can work and what you like.

[ed6713]

You an find your answer here.

Costs some money but compared with what you're about to spend it's pocket change. Might help you avoid a costly mistake.

Enjoy your new rig whatever you decide.