Following a string of bad luck and break downs, I've decided to sell my diesel pusher and make life a little simpler by getting a fifth wheel and a properly sized diesel pick up to tow.
We had this set up 12 years ago and enjoyed it for longer stays at campgrounds, but we haven't had much time, so the d.p. was better for us as the traveling experience is much better. BUT, having suffered our third breakdown in three years this past weekend, we decided enough's enough, so I'm back in the fifth whell market very soon.
I'd like your expert input on a four or five year old higher end 5er, like Carriage or Teton. Less than 35 feet, and something I can tow with a three quarter or one ton diesel. Three quarter preferably.
Number of slides isn't as important as living arrangment. A couple of recliners that actually face the television, king sized bed, washer and dryer, insulated windows, and private commode.
I know we're looking at over $100k for a new one, so I'd like to spend about half that or less.
Your comments and suggestions are welcome.
Dave & Robin
Boxers; Big Jake (2002-2011)& Lady Katydid
Grey Cat: Big Papa (aka) Stinkley
2012 Dodge 3500 Club Cab Long Horn edition
Max Tow, 4:10 rear end,
2007 DRV Select Suites 36TKB, Trail Aire Tri Glide
My opinion is that you are amiing a wise choice. If there is any way that you can spend the money, I would suggest that you look for a new truck & trailer. The 2011 one ton trucks are awesome. I bought a 2011 Chevy 3500 Dually & it can tow a cobined weight in excess of 29,000 lbs. I have owned 3 fifth wheels & think my present one, a Select Suites, by DRV is comparable to many diesl pushers. My total investment for both was a little less than 120K & I have full waranties on both. If you want more info, please PM me.
You're probably not going to find a high end 5'ver that is not too heavy for a 3/4 ton truck. Quality amenities weigh a lot more than cardboard and plastic.
2005 Newmar Dutch Star 4024 DP 370 Cummins
Towing my 2012 Malibu w/Blue Ox towbar & Patriot brake system
Don't even think about a 3/4 ton for those FW's. A =minimum= of SRW 1 ton; a DRW would be better.
Lyle
2002 GMC Sierra 2500 HD Duramax Crew Cab 4x4
Banks Bullet Tuner and Monster Exhaust
B&W Turnover Ball with 5th Wheel Companion
2004 Komfort 25FSG Fifth Wheel
1936 John Deere Model A
International Flying Farmers 55 Year Member
Think about Carriage, DRV, KZ Escalade, to name a few. Many like the Jayco Pinnacle, too. My Open Range is nice, but more high mid level pricing, like the Pinnacle.
I agree for most of these you'll be happier with a 1T SRW at the minimum. And not very much more expensive than a 3/4T. Think GMC, or Dodge diesel. The newer GMC/Ford trucks, with all the emissions junk, don't get as good fuel mileage as maybe a 2008/9.
'12 F350 SB, CC, SRW, 6.7 PSD, 3.55 RAR, 6 spd auto, Ultimate Lariat pkg
2011 Open Range 393RLS 14,250 GVWR
Pullrite Super Glide 18K
I purchased a 2011 truck F450 and a used Mobile Suites (in excellent condition) for less than $100K total. I replaced tires, bearings, batteries and added washer & dryer, We areng full time NEXT WEEK!!!
If you are going to a fiver here is m2c: You can get a new cameo (11or12) between $55K&60Kish. Used even cheaper. Most likely a new 3500 Ram dually Quad Cab 4WD between $42-45K I bought an 09 back in Mar. off Craig's list for $35K with less than 9,000 miles (practically brand new). There are many other mid priced fivers that will do fine (Cedar Creek, or Montana) also.
So you think getting rid of your MH and going with truck & 5'vr will cure your 'repair' bills & make life simpler.........hehehehehehehehehehe
MH, 5'vr, TT, truck, tow vehicle etc.......Any type of RV being dragged down the HWY is experiencing the effects of a 4.9 earthquake (or worst) and will need maintenance/repairs.
3X in 3 years....ain't so bad
350/3500 SRW (minimum) and Carriage, Teton, Mobile Suites, Jayco, NUWA all good RV's
We Full Time in a 34' 5'vr towed by 3500 SRW........bought both new in late '06. Some repairs on both.....but that's the way it goes.
I was at the NuWa factory in Chanute, KS a few weeks ago to pick up a new 5er. They have quite an inventory of factory recondition NuWa (and others) trade ins. Somebody who trades the same brand in for a new one must have been happy with it.
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