New Travel Trailer Purchase - 3 models in mind

[f499]

First off, we are new to the forum. We've done some reading, and the more we read, the more we are tempted to NOT proceed with a travel trailer purchase. Lots of horror stories, any make or model. Similar to a hot tub, it's not if it will break, it's more about when will it break and will the store/dealer support me, and we will have to put our handyman skills to work. I guess the good news stories don't get posted much, so the bad stuff sticks out. Anyways, lets assume we do proceed, here's some basic info:

Trailer purchase is all about mobile accommodations; we are not looking for a full-out camping experience.

Tow vehicle is Yukon XL, so crazy lightweight trailers are not a must.

Looking in the 24-26' range.

Tip-out seems like a nice setup, unless somebody can convince us that tip-outs are problematic.

Trailer is for 3 people, 2 adults, and 1 child (15 year old, 6+feet tall)

After weeks of reading and research, we have built a list of 2-3 dealers. Again, all about after sales support/service. Based on what they sell, we have trimmed the list, I think to three models: Venture Roadtrek 251VBH, Starcraft Launch Ultra Lite 26BHS or even Starcraft Launch Ultra Lite 24 RLS. Thing is, with the 24RLS, not sure our son will enjoy the hide-a-bed / sofa. So, probably least interesting option.

Anybody have thoughts or experience with these trailers?

Anybody have opinions on if tip-outs are problematic?

Given late 2016 season, what should be the savings between 2016 and 2017 model? (assume same trailer)

What is the normal PDI fee? Some dealer quoted us that they invest 10 hours to go through the whole trailer. Is that actually true/realistic?

Can you actually go 3-4 years, without any issues with the trailer?

Sorry for all the questions. Any input is greatly appreciated.

F499

[rbpru]

I believe the floor plan is the most important issue. If the wife likes the interior that is a major factor.

The ability to tow it is important but can be changed over time. The cost if not to burdensome can be overcome in time also but the floor plan is forever.

Remember, it is easy to be wow and bedazzled when looking at RVs but it is still a hobby. Floor plan, tow vehicle and cost must all be manageable to prevent buyers remorse.

For all the above reasons the DW (wife) and I rented a TT to try before we spent the big bucks.

[f499]

Our search and information gathering continues. We recently visited a Winnebago dealer. We were quite impressed. The 2455BHS fits our needs. The fit and finish seemed much better than most other companies. The components seem better too (porcelaine toilet, cabinetry and doors seem much better, stainless sink) As well, my wife was totally in awe over the light colored interior. Very bright. Although, when compared to others, it's about $4-$5K more. This could be a serious contender.

Now, if it's a green light, what we need to decide is, end of season purchase, or show/spring purchase?

F499

[rbpru]

My standard advise is to take your best guess at what you want, then rent a similar unit to see what it is like to pull one down the road.

Among the many thing you will discover are,
* Is your tow vehicle up to the task.
* Do you mind getting 10 mpg or 23 liters/100km?
* Do you mind 280 mile or 450 km a day?
* Do you mind driving all day at 60 to 65 mph or 100 km/hr?
* Are you willing to do the routine checks and maintenance involved?

In the US there are over 300,000 TTs and fifth wheels made every years, the vast majority of owners have few if any issues, which are usually addressed by the dealer.

There are a few horror stories that you see on the board that is for sure. That is why a dealer you can trust is very important.

Depending on your camping background, you may find there is a big difference between camping and RVing.

[lgarcia]

Weekend travelers here - longest we have been out is ten days. Had four years on the first trailer (14ft) and have one year on this trailer (18ft). For the two of us a slide out is not an interest. We can stop and fix something to eat and have lunch at the dinette with plenty of room to spare when traveling. There is plenty of room to move around in when in place while camping since we have ample room to stow with the cabinets, closets, and the bunks. We pack minimally - still have a tenting mentality so we keep an eye on heavy items by paring down.

A question is how long will your 15 year old camp with you? By 16 all of our kids were into their own interests/jobs/sports training etc.

[Dick_B]

First I would try to figure out which dealer would provide the best after sale service. Maybe a Google search would provide some info.
Search this Forum for the make/model you are interested in. Yes, the bad stuff is listed. Misery loves company.
Tip outs are called Slides or Slide Outs in the US.
If you are really worried about possible service needs I would try renting a cabin in a campground a few times. You may like that better or as well.
Spend at least an hour INSIDE each model, if possible. Think about all the things you would do with it eg. sleeping, showering, cooking, potty use, etc. My big thing is being able to use the toilet and galley when stopped at a Rest Area without having to put the slide out.
A `deal' is not a deal if the camper doesn't work for your anticipated lifestyle.

[GaryWT]

Couldn't find a Venture but the Starcraft looks nice, the double size bed is important as many bunks are just for little kids and a 15 yo would not like them much. Tip out? A slide out is important as it gives you added room. Even if you are outside mostly, getting up or going to bed you will be tripping over each other.

Even when you buy a new house, there is usually a punch list that the builder has to come take care of. There will be some little things but if you catch them on the walk through then you are good, as for paying for this, it should all be included in the pricing.

Good luck.

[TurnThePage]

Regardless of brand, inspect your desired trailer carefully for construction deficiencies. Thoroughly inspect the roof edges and any wall/roof penetrations: vents, exterior lights, doors, windows, etc. A long term water leak is probably the most common killer of travel trailers. Look at and test EVERYTHING during the PDI.

My cheapy travel trailer had areas that would have been guaranteed to leak and would have ruined it in a year or two. I searched out and sealed everything on the exterior. My toilet had a cross threaded connection which leaked a little, which was fixed under warranty. Mine is 12 years old and lives outside full time, and requires minimal maintenance. Aside from some sun fade, it's in great shape.

I think if you are aggressive initially, your chosen trailer can last a good long time.

[f499]

Great point on payload. I've always focused on GVWR. We've had this 2006 Yukon XL for 10 years, and have towed an enclosed car trailer, which would be similar to a 24-26' travel trailer. Max GVWR is 8,600lbs and max payload is 1,731lbs.

Roadtrek is 6,500lbs GVWR with a dry hitch weight of 650lbs.
Starcraft 26BHS is 6,250lbs GVWR. No sure on hitch weight. Assuming, both are similar.

I would not tow anything above 7,500lbs. Don't like being close to the max GVWR of the vehicle.

F499

[Campfire_Time]

Depending on the year and configuration of your Yukon a 26' trailer may be pushing it. The issue isn't the drive train. You'll have plenty of power. The issue is payload. SUVs have a lower payload and softer suspension than their 1/2 PU counterparts. The payload is on the yellow sticker inside the driver side door jamb. Say it's 1300#. If your tongue weight is 750#, and your hitch weighs 100#, you have 450# left of payload. Say your wife and son combined, conservatively weigh 250#. You have 200# left. Have a dog? Subtract him, and anything else you might carry in the truck. Just something to keep in mind.

Trailers in general are not a big problem. We've purchased 3 trailers new. A pop-up in '93, had for 10 years. A Jayco Kiwi 17a hybrid in '03, had for 10 years. And our current Jayco X20E. A few minor issues when new, things like door trim not glued down, adjustments to screen doors, adjustments to brakes. Nothing major. All of which I did myself because it wasn't worth taking to the dealer for. Any other small items were taken care of during the PDI.

Your house and car need maintenance. So does your trailer. Checking for leaks, dried caulking, greasing bearings, and a host of other things. We never had anything happen that I couldn't fix. You should easily get 4 or 5 years before you have anything happen, and probably longer.

Our X20E is our first trailer with a slide out. We're in our 4th season with it and it's been working fine. I will say this, with what is for all practical purposes 3 adults, I would not want a trailer without one. Especially since you are not looking for a "camping experience". Ours is only the couch and only goes out about a foot, but man, what a difference in floor space. Before she got married our daughter went with us a couple of times and we never felt cramped.

Most of all, just have fun with it!