We have a Rockwood 8314SS that we are beginning our third month in. So far we have pulled it about 2200 miles on this trip. We will spend about 4 more months on this trip. It is an all weather TT and works for us-I don't have a clue if it is considered a full time unit. This week the temps are in the ninety's and the AC runs most of the day to keep it cool. We have the oversize AC unit. Also, I have not been able to take the shake out of it when parked.
After looking over the RV Consumer Group information, I find it interesting and discouraging that they do not rate quality of construction in their reports.
The RV Consumer Group uses three standards, Reliability, Highway Control, and Value to rate RVs. The way they rate Reliability is pretty subjective since it is heavily weighted on satisfaction surveys. Don't get me wrong; opinion and experiences are valuable, it's just good to remember that it is based on likes and dislikes, environmental conditions, living habits, maintenance habits, etc, etc, and it tends to be subjective. It's not good and it's not bad, just subjective. Highway Control may be less subjective given all the disclaimers and conditions listed by the Group. However, there are NO test results for RVs like there are for cars/trucks. I would like to see crash tests, driving tests, etc. Of the three measurements, the Value rating is probably the most objective measurement the Group uses. However, is it a good measurement for determining if one RV is better than another for a variety of uses? High-end vehicles do not necessarily depreciate slower.
I think what I am looking for are ratings and comparisons based on various aspects of Quality of Construction. Even a comparison of something as simple as, is the plywood used in the cabinets a real wood finish with real wood or is it a photographed layer on the surface of some mahogany paneling? Or it could be something as complex as, a comparison of the quality controls used in manufacuring plants. How about a comparison of frame strengths/ridgedity vs anticipated load weights. Or, how about, some numbers on how many warrantee claims each manufacture paid out? Failure rates and warrantee claims information is available for the automobily industry. What about the RV industry?
The Jayco and Citation certaily look like a higher end unit. Thanks for the leads! They certainly are heavy; which I would expect when better quality materials are used. I've seen pictures of Space Craft units before and would like to see one in person sometime.
As far as use of the term "Full-time rated" being a marketing ploy... Perhaps... What it is called is not important to me. Quality of craftmanship and some sort of comparison between manufacturers is important.
Someone asked how I use my TT... four years of traveling 365 days a year (see my map with colors). Currently taking a break from traveling by staying in one spot in my TT for two years. Will travel again after that. There's lots of country I haven't seen yet. And, lots I would like to see again.
So... If anyone can give me more leads on "high-end" travel tralers I would appreciate it. Thanks
RVnRobin, DW, and the cat.
The cat thinks she is the boss!
HR, Holiday Rambler. There are a few others that slip my mind. But I always remember the HRs. I would look at these. Now if only Mobile Suites did one, which they may. Haven't seen any, but you know how that goes.
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