We RVd for 30+ years and the best 2 we had was a Hitchiker and a KZ Stoneridge. Neither was ever in the shop. The KZ was a 2014 and we sold it in 2019 due to health and bought a small cabin instead but transitioned to a class C. Hopefully KZ is still amazing.
We bought 2016 rockwook 8286ws in 2020 its a really nice 5th wheel. Paid 22000 thats about 1/3 new price. The only difference in new was you could tell one of the bunners on the outside kitchen had been used when i saw it the owner said he mode coffie on it in yelleystone one morning. We bought in in march he had new goodyear tires put on it in sept.
I don’t fault you for passing on the Durango. Everyone has what they like and dislike. I’m sure you’ll find something that you don’t mind compromising on. Good luck in your search!
Robert, Thanks. We had a bad experience with the KZ reps, too. We are willing to compromise but want to feel like the company we pick will better for us, Alice
We have a KZ travel trailer going on four years now. Absolutely love it! We are actually looking at a Durango 5th wheel on our next purchase. We love how the Durango has a huge past thru storage. Safe travels! Oh in 4 years we never open the windows. 😂
Take a look at Northwood and Outdoors RV, they are built in Oregon on their on frame, also considered to be more "Four Seasoned" Northwood builds a 27-5L which is a small couples 5th wheel with large tanks for boon docking
Charles, We looked at those 4 years ago. Love them - except they still have carpet? 🤔 But we are in Florida - very very rare to find them anywhere close to us, Alice
They have done a major interior remodel for 2024, but their availability in the SouthEast is very lacking, Texas and the NorthEast are the closest dealers I think.@@DownsizingMakesCents
I totally get it. I love the way your husband crawls around under and through the unit, I do the same. Especially the frame, that's what impressed me about Northwood. Ours had great cabinet work, overall construction was spot on. I think ours was rated for off road as well, sat up high. I wouldn't hesitate buying a used Arctic Fox after inspection of course. @@DownsizingMakesCents
@@DownsizingMakesCents we purchased a 2017 Arctic Fox 1140 at D&H RV in the Raleigh NC area last year ..really loved the concept of going just about anywhere the truck will go. We also owned a Grand Design Solitude 310 GK for our longer trips and three months in Florida during the winter months. We recently got cold feet about the issues with the GD frames and traded our truck and fifth wheel for a Tiffin class A motorhome. We will be putting our Arctic fox 1140 up for sale in the spring when we get back in town from winter break. I can say one thing that the Arctic Fox truck camper is built like a tank and we will be sorry to see it go but no longer have a truck to haul it around.
My opinion only, we have 2 friends that had their frame come apart and delamination on their Keystone. I would never have one. Enjoy your videos! Be safe traveling.❤
Cerita, Sorry to hear that. Happened to Grand Designs, too. Was it pandemic built? Were they taken care of? Important points. Thanks for sharing and for the well wishes, Alice
@DownsizingMakesCents One got a new 5th wheel out of it and paid the difference for a bigger one, and it's frame fell apart too. The other friend got their 5th wheel replaced with a new one of the same thing. The new one delaminated too!
@@DownsizingMakesCents I'll admit, I wasn't a big fan of the layout on that one either, at least for us. But that's why they make cars in different colors, right?
I don’t think you’re crazy for deciding against it due to the windows. You know what you like and what is important to you! I hope you find your new rig soon! Thanks for taking us along on the hunt and explaining your thought processes!
Agree with others to swap out skylight for a ceiling fan in the kitchen..... works great in our RV.... KZ is one of few 30 ft 5th wheels with a fireplace and good closed up access...good luck!
Interesting, everyone we toured had a fireplace 🤔 I get that a vent would help. But lots of other issues, including the poor treatment by a KZ rep when we questioned about the code, Alice
@@DownsizingMakesCents Agree Alice.... Maybe Mark should intervene on your behalf?? He did that KZ tour last year and developed a contact. At least voice the ridiculous answer you received! Thanks for the reply!
@@DownsizingMakesCentsAlice,Larry....just put $ down...rear facing sliding window in KZ250 slide...! Amazing. Unit has dual pane window package.... just sharing. We were shocked...lol We'll keep following Larry's new spreadsheet adventure. Best wishes....
Yeah, the windows not opening would be huge to us. Also, it feels more enclosed with only one window in the bedroom. And outside kitchens is just a place for more storage! Can't wait to see what ya'll decide on🔆
@@DownsizingMakesCents Nothing wrong with that. I'm always looking to see what else we can change in our rig to make it more unique to us. Good luck finding your new home!
We LOVE the 240 and will be ordering soon. We don't mind the closed windows as both those large windows open and creating enough breeze for us. That drop frame storage is to much to pass up on for us. We've also never had issues with schwintek while many others have.
The drop frame and frame in general is pretty sweet. It’s not just the windows, but how we were treated asking about the windows. But I hope you have a better experience, Alice
That furrion tankless water heater is a great unit. I install tons of them and had great success with them. The tankless water heaters are extremely efficient in a boondocking situation due to it only consuming propane when the water is flowing.
The question is how much water does it take to get the water hot enough to start a navy shower? Not worried about propane use especially since most rv are coming with 12v fridges that dont offer propane option. Larry
Durango Gold are the ones made for full timing. I’m avoiding any “lite” or half-ton as they just seem on the surface not to be built to endure full timing.
Check out the Northwood Arctic Fox Grande Ronde 27-5L. Best built Four Season 29' 9" x 8' 6". Nearly the same floor plan as the KZ. Keep the great videos coming.
We looked at this one last week. It is on the short list. The non opening windows was a big no for us. We too thought the outside kitchen needed to be storage. They said they could replace the frig with a two way frig, with a pantry. The other thing I did not like was the interior steps to the upper deck, the rise is much greater than other 5vrs.
Interesting that they said they could make changes. It’s definitely off our list. I didn’t notice the steps. We are going in the direction of a brand I didn’t think I would. Stay tuned 😉 Alice
You guys should look at the Reflection 270BN, which is much lighter than your Solitude and has the same suspension upgrades as the KZ. Plus ABS brakes. We have the Furrion On Demand water heater and when boondocking we set the temperature so we just use the hot tap in the shower and turn it right down to a trickle but it keeps the burner on and you save water. Happy shopping!!
Bryan, KZ has a very unique suspension support. And the reflections we saw had same window issues we have with our Solitude- windows that don’t open or barely open. Lastly, we just don’t think GD is right for us anymore. But I’m glad you’re happy with it, Alice
One maker you may contact is Allen Manufacturing in Oklahoma. They seem to build them more traditionally, with all the pros and cons of that, but being a small outfit I had read somewhere they were open for some customizations that big builders were not. I came across them looking for a tiny 5th wheel, as they make one under 25’. It’s so hard to find something that’s simple and well made these days!
Mark, Thanks. We are willing to compromise but there were too many things. And how we were treated by a KZ rep when we questioned the window code? Not good, Alice
I'm impressed by the drop frame for storage. We're just not fans of rear kitchens. I think that's where you're getting the non opening window code from. BTW, why no more bed sides? We finally got one, and we love it!
Lane, The drop frame was nice. The window code? Other brands at the show had rear kitchens with all windows opening? 🤔 Bed slide? Noisier; heavy on slide mechanism causes problems; no side tables; etc. We thought we put on the screen about our constant problem with the bedroom slide? had one for 4 years and hate it. But lots of flavors for a reason, Alice
I don’t know what I would do. There has to be other options for them to help you with the windows. It’s very nice. It’s in your price range. Maybe look a little more maybe something will come to you. If you don’t like this one. Sorry I didn’t help much. I’m happy with whatever you get! Just can’t wait to see what you get.
@@DownsizingMakesCents Aw thank you Alice! That’s I love you guys and I try help. I wan what’s best for you both money wise. With being on a budget. I love and care for you both! 🤗🤗❤️❤️
Alliance has a number of shorter Avenue fifth wheel (All-Access models) that have fully opening windows. Our friends just got a 26RD and love it. BTW, I have never heard of a code that said windows can't open. Maybe directly over a heater or furnace exhaust? IDK
@@DownsizingMakesCents I am more concerned with all that stuff in the cabinets and the fridge taking all that bouncing. This 240RKD has 1,590 CCC, so less than your 2,000 minimum. I like the floorplan of the 283RLT, but it only has 1,120 CCC and a kitchen island, so I know that's out for you. It's nice that KZ has 16" wheels and tires on all their 1/2 Tons. Too bad they don't make these floor plans up in the 2,000 CCC plus range.
@@DownsizingMakesCents if you’re referring to the gap between the top of the axle to the frame, it’s not affected by the addition of the short frame tube. The short frame reinforcement is still where the spring hangers are mounted. What you are looking at, is an unloaded leaf spring, so it has big clearance, and you can see the spring is not loaded by looking at the bottom of the tires- there’s no deflection of the tires at the pavement.
We seriously considered that Durango model when buying in 2019 before settling on the Flagstaff 528RKS. Not sure that Flagstaff still offers the 528RKS.
Hi, Alice and Larry. I wish we had gotten to meet you while you were at the show. Your choces are many and you'd probably be wise to make and prioritize a checklist if you haven't already. You deserve anything you want, but dollars and "cents" are important, right? I have noticed that weight, distance, and frequency of travel are large factors in chassis demands. GD seems to blame the Sumo bag improvements, as some other manufacturers do. Try to look for a heavy-duty frame if it's available and take your time to make a final decision. You two are so much fun to follow because of your humor and real approach to life's "bumps in the road." Best regards, John J
Thanks for the suggestion We are looking for the big viewing windows to be on the camping side - along with seating area. Plus, we want a TV directly across from the seating area. Alice
@@DownsizingMakesCents Changing things are okay. When you have small home base that doesn’t mean you have stay for months at a time . I’m always going places . It’s nice to have a place to re group before traveling again! Good luck moving forward whatever you do ! 😁
The storage in the kitchen looked great. We hate Shwintek slides too, but at least those are small. Would never ever buy a full wall slide with one. We once walked away from a rig because of the refrigerator. What's important to you is important, and that's ok.
Michelle, Oh, the frig is an issue, but we found lots of rigs went to the 10 cubic. Which stinks if you are in it for months or full time. These RV manufacturers just don’t get it. Alice
If it doesn't feel just right, don't do. It is my experience, but if you find yourself continuing to go back and look at it every time you compare it to others then it might be the one. But if you find you walk into another one and go okay. This is so much better than that one. Then you may find that those windows might be the thing. That was the perfect thing holding you back from making a mistake
Waylon, You are so right. Plus, I just got a bad feeling the way we were treated by a KZ rep when we questioned “ the code” since other manufacturers with similar floor plans have windows that open 🤔 Alice
I spotted a vent on the ceiling in the kitchen.......what about adding a fantastic fan in that vent opening and that will pull air from another open window to "create" a breeze in the kitchen area. ??? KZ is one of the few "mass builders" of trailers that I would consider.
It seems like you want to change a lot of things on the Durango so maybe its not the one for you, if you think about it I couldnt get past the windows not opening either. That would aggravate me to much. Good luck! Im enjoying your videos!
Unfortunately, if they are slanted, not much breeze. If they slide, you probably have to close them when it rains - unless it’s the ones under the awning. So pros and cons for both. Alice
The way they make them 1/2 ton towable is by using lighter materials.a FREIND of mine owns own the floor failed! Never wet all traffic areas became weak!! Tore it apart to replace floor 1/4 inch plywood with styrofoam. Look at it close! Ask lots of questions about how they lightened it up!! Good luck!
Keith, Excellent point. Unfortunately, we found that the half tons do seem to be built with lower quality materials. We don’t want cheaper - just smaller. We don’t even need a half ton - we have a Ram 3500 longbed crewcab dually, Alice
@@DownsizingMakesCents Alice me and my husband Jeff have the 26RBS and it checks all of our wants and needs, being empty nesters also and we’re about 4-6 months till retirement we plan on snowbirding next winter. Our 2 kids are gone and don’t have any desire to hang out with us anymore….
Down sized last year. We went from a small 5th wheel to a 26' Intech Terra Rover (NO Slides). The size of our 5th wheel was nice but I was tired of watching the walls bowed in and out as the "Schwintec" slide went in and out. Just about every RV manuf. uses the wrong plumbing fittings when they use the vinyl hose. They are suppose to use barbed fittings which are a different size than pex fittings. Also the quality of the caulking job makes a big difference. For me, the quality of the frame, suspension, tires, plumbing fittings and quality of the caulking are things I would look for. Good luck, there is no perfect rig.
I agree sometimes if you go behind the walls in the basement, you see all kinds of shoddy work and incorrect wiring and plumbing. There is no perfect rig but after 4 years we know what we want, but nobody makes it, haha. Larry
I bet "the code" you mentioned is related to the outside kitchen and its proximity to those windows. Exhaust gasses could potentially enter the RV. It's ironic that the kitchen that you wouldn't use is the reason for the odd windows. I say stand firm on what you want. We are also shopping for a trailer, and windows that open wide is a top priority of mine.
Other manufacturers have about the same situation but windows open 🤔 It was weird how they treated us because we questioned the code. We didn’t walk, we ran away 😁 Alice
Have you researched KZ quality and customer support? We are also researching for a fifth wheel purchase. As poorly as most RVs are built, manufacturer and dealer support are my initial priority. Just my cautious opinion. Good luck on your life change.
Two things are easier to get past than a single one. Only "one thing" creates a focus that will always be a sticking point. Anything that creates a focused doubt will be a focus for years to come. I hope you wait for the perfect unit.
Good point. Unfortunately, there were many issues - including how we were treated by KZ rep when we questioned about “ the code” that other manufacturers don’t seem to have, Alice
Thats funny, i used cans and cans of fluid film on the suspension of my boat for 20 years, kept the whole trailer from getting rusty,, also sprayed the engine all over, creates a protective barriers from salt . Larry
What do you think about the Alliance Avenue All-Access 24RK? It seems like it has the things you like about the Durango and doesn't have the things you don't like.
Chad, Thanks. We did. But other rigs like the Keystone Cougar have windows that actually open wide. And we won’t buy a rig that blocks the bathroom and bedroom when slide is in. Did you see Wayward Waggs issue - trapped in bedroom? Slide issues. Plus, we think our time with GD is at an end. But we are glad it works for you, Alice
The 150s are off my list because the bedroom/bathroom can’t be accessed with the slide in. Having access to the BRm is why we’re not tenting…other than the very large dog we own.
Great review/inspection. We spent so much time researching before wd bought our (previous) travel trailer. We owned a Rockwood Signature Ultra Lite for nearly 8 years. It had actual solid hickory wood cabinets which i still miss. It was a BH so once our girls grew up we started looking for a couples 5th wheel. We had our eye on the GD Solitude since they first came out. When we were ready to trade, we opted for used 2018. We love it and plan on keeping it for a long time but it does have things I dislike (fake wood everywhere, shoddy workmanship and cheap parts for faucets, connections and fixtures) so we are systematically replacing and upgrading. I would hesitate on KZ but definitely agree GD isn't all it's made out to be. I wish you great luck in finding your next rig! 🙏❤️
Thanks. We agree with cheap parts on rigs. We don’t care about solid wood - we want practical. The less weight the empty rig is, the more we can add. For instance, our solar system that Larry installed himself is quite heavy - not the panels. The big issue is that RV manufacturers seem to think because we want smaller, we want cheaper. 😡 Thanks again for sharing your experience, Alice
@@DownsizingMakesCentsI agree. RV manufacturers have no clue - even if they are told what people want. I know what you're saying and definitely keeping weight down is important. (I will never justify a dishwasher in a fifth wheel - nor a washer/dryer for weight) But, the solid wood cabinets were not any heavier than these pressed fake doors in our Solitude that absorb moisture much easier than real sealed wood.
Rear kitchen units lose the large trifold sofa / bed and seem to have poorer window set ups as you have identified. I suggest looking a the Cougar 5th wheels. they have some nice units in the upper 20ft ~ low 30 ft length with larger nicer windows iin several models. Some have lower list prices too! Go to keystone rv and select fith wheels and cougar look at the floor plans and specs. they have several lines of cougar 5th wheels. premium, 150 etc.
Our rockwood 2016, 7900 somethimg can weigh about 9600 something its great but wouldnt tow with half ton. Hot 1996 f350 dually crew cab. Cant tell its back there. And when backing you can 90 deg it
Don’t forget to get your Matt’s cash from Matt’s RV. He also gives out free stuff for the toilet. But for me it would be a deal breaker on the windows…..they are a must when in the Hot weather and your AC goes out. Also they are saying to really be aware of the RVs right now because of Quality. So do your homework!!!! Good luck!
Kathy, We would prefer to buy used, especially since we can’t find what we want and will have to mod. -maybe 2019 or before. Matt is our first choice to deal with it, Alice
Your final question "One thing freaking you out and couldn't get past it"? I call them "non-starters" and I have a small group of non-starters. I saw one immediately, and you made a passing comment about it but nothing further. Floor vents! Besides the issue of dirt falling in and periodically removing cover to vacuum out which is a minor issue, the major issue is pet unfriendly as paws get caught in them. While you don't highlight having a pet, I do see a dog in several of your videos. What I find amazing that manufacturers with multiple lines will have sister products with near identical floorplans, and one will have floor vents, the other won't. Example would be Keystone Cougar (floor vents) vs Arcadia (cabinet base vent). While understand bad taste with GD, in the 30' range check out Alliance and the Keystone Arcadia.
Larry, Excellent points. The floor vents? Didn’t think of Scruffy’s poor paws 😔 Yes. Unfortunately, it seems smaller rig equals poorer quality. That’s not why we are downsizing. So we might have to switch gears - again - and look at the higher lever fifth wheels. But not many are small. But we looked at Keystone. Alliance? Haven’t found anything that ticks major boxes. Thanks for the suggestions and the great info on the vents, Alice
@@DownsizingMakesCents Good to hear that still looking. Many times with the time lag in publishing on TH-cam, it is already a done deal by the time we see it, then an official announcement in a second video. Thought afterwards the reverse of the question you posed. Not "must have", but "all things being equal in finalist selection, tie-breakers". Thinks like bonus points for Azdel vs laminate, single piece fiberglass roof vs TPO, etc.
Tom, Appreciate the thought. We have had a rig with windows that don’t open on one side for 4 years. We have a max air fan and small fans we plug in. It’s not evough
Ruth, this one KZ person became quite annoyed that we questioned the code - especially after we said we saw many other companies with almost exact set up with windows that open. They never explained I think it’s cost - windows that open probably cost more, Alice
The only reason for " code " to come into play would be if there was a gas appliance that vented near the window . Looked like it was about to storm in Shipshewana that day .
We actually had to go BIGGER to get away from the industry standard island kitchen. I hate island kitchens, and even more so when you watch the many videos of them bouncing around when your towing them!
Learn about the code and why the windows are not allowed to be opened? I assume it is related to some type of exhaust port from a heater etc. If so, then investigate about relocation options for the exhaust port and be able to replace the windows with ones which open. Simple. 😉
We have a GD Reflection 150 Series 5th wheel that is very similar to the one you are looking at in this video. All of our windows open. Ours is a 2019 model so maybe the "code" has changed. Oh yeah, and no vent in the middle of the floor. Too bad you all are tired of GD.
Rey, The Reflections we saw had the living room slide block the bathroom and bedroom. And the windows didn’t open like in the Cougars. Glad you are still happy with your rig, Alice
For my style of camping, I would not buy a camper that the windows do open. Especially in the kitchen. I had a trailer I liked a lot but it had a bedroom slide and no window on that side. So I picked another trailer. Have to haze good cross breeze. Good luck finding a trailer fast fits y'all.
David, Excellent point - it’s the style of camping. If you are on full hookups all the time? I guess you don’t need windows that open. But I would think at least have them in the kitchen to help with heat and smell? But then again, many people don’t cook in the kitchen. Lots of ways to RV. And thanks for the well wishes, Alice
Why get a new rig? Use an inspector and get a used one. The warranties are mostly time suck, full price money wasters. With a used rig, if something breaks, you either fix it yourself or call an rv tech and get it fixed a whole lot faster than if it was a new rig. You save a lot of money and time in the process.
Diann, We have never bought new - 3 rigs experience We looked at new because we were at the show for our channel. Plus, some older rigs really don’t have newest innovations. But if we couldn’t get a deal on new? No, we wouldn’t buy, Alice
Frankly, I’m really not enamored of islands in fifth wheels. They make accessing much of your kitchen difficult when you’re in road mode. As far as the windows go, well there’s always a compromise when you’re buying an rv, but you have to decide what’s important to you.
You can tell the quality of the company that built this from the access holes in the basement, from the wiring (how it's installed, secured and not just looped with zip ties) to the access holes cut into the floor (nice finish cut - no over cuts and sharp edges), and even how it was insulated and caulked...From your videos of the basement - I'm not impressed with the quality or the workmanship of that particular rig...
Unfortunately, it seems manufacturers cheapen out when they make them smaller. We are willing to pay for high quality in a smaller fifth wheel, but hard to find one under 30’ Alice
HINT: If youre just going to buy property and plunk a home RV on it, then I wd get the biggest used RV I could get. the new ones just depreciate like a snowball in hell, so to speak, although its fun looking at them. Then to do the alaska trip, get a good sized used camper to put on your truck and go with that, to arrive in alaska in deep summer ie july/august.
Back in 2010 we had a 32 ‘ KZ Sportsman travel trailer was a very nice trailer how about a fan in the kitchen and suck air in or out and turn on anther elsewhere
I'm skeptical of the "half-ton fifth wheel" label. I will be greatly surprised if you load up that fifth wheel camper and hitch it to a half ton truck and put the truck and camper on the scale and the truck is not overloaded. The dry hitch weight is 1790 lbs plus 150 lbs for a hitch plus maybe 300 lbs of occupants. That requires a payload of 2240 lbs before loading anything in the camper. Better hang on to your dually.
That's my point. I know you're aware of truck payload issues and you know how to do the math. You're not likely to find a half ton truck with a payload of 2240 lbs +. Maybe go to a truck dealer and look at some payload stickers. My '20 F150 XLT SuperCrew with aluminum body has a payload of 1862. My similar 2013 steel body truck had a payload of 1602. A half ton truck with that camper attached will likely be overloaded. @@DownsizingMakesCents
Now I realize you're talking about the camper when you say "half ton". That confused me because "half ton" is a term describing the truck and not the camper. The RV manufacturer describes the camper as a "half ton" trying to get the buyer to think a half ton truck is capable of towing the camper. But I don't believe that a half ton truck can tow one of these "half ton" campers without being overloaded. It's misleading advertising.@@DownsizingMakesCents
I’d never pull that trailer with a 1/2 ton. They don’t have enough braking capabilities. Also traveling in the wind out west will give you a ride your truck can’t handle.
We looked at the Brinkley - don’t have one short enough. They do look pretty though. Such a new company - love to wait and see how they last and what people say about customer service, Alice
Bruce, we would have to see if those window sizes even exist. Then we would buy used version - otherwise you are losing the warranty on a new rig. We thought about it. But there were other issues. Windows was one, Alice
I have never heard of KZ rv’s until now and tbh I was not impressed. The bedroom looks very dark, I would definitely need another window in there. I would not buy this RV and would go with something better made with superior materials.
Is U-R Transmission inthe Truck Automatic if it is U-R Screwed Up need A Truck with Dual Wheels (Dually) 1-Ton Standard (Manual Transmission)Cus Manual weighs maybe 2,000 LBS. Automatic Transmission Now days 14,000.LBS.See what I mean. Good Luck.
Heart land not mabe very good. Go to elkhart go therogh factories. Go to How indana first look at DRV, then compare all others to it. Then go to grand design, heart land, then go to rockwood you will be amazed at the quality for the price.
Check out this playlist of other led up to this
th-cam.com/play/PLTSSVhr0HOzigidMBV0lijdrVE3UsTilv.html&si=e_5q3fi0ZSSNugER
Yup has happed more then once to us. Keep looking. Your new rig will find you.... Enjoy the hunt. Take care.
Thank you. It’s disappointing when you get your hopes up - much like what happened to the land we put a contract on 😔
But still
Hopeful,
Alice
We RVd for 30+ years and the best 2 we had was a Hitchiker and a KZ Stoneridge. Neither was ever in the shop. The KZ was a 2014 and we sold it in 2019 due to health and bought a small cabin instead but transitioned to a class C. Hopefully KZ is still amazing.
Shirley,
Unfortunately they didn’t have a floor plan that worked for us.
I hate buying new big purchases 😂 I wish you good luck. Hope you guys didnt wear yourselves out too much 💕🤙
Jonny,
We are a bit wasted. But lots of love from everyone has helped,
Alice
We bought 2016 rockwook 8286ws in 2020 its a really nice 5th wheel. Paid 22000 thats about 1/3 new price. The only difference in new was you could tell one of the bunners on the outside kitchen had been used when i saw it the owner said he mode coffie on it in yelleystone one morning. We bought in in march he had new goodyear tires put on it in sept.
@@howardwatts4238Howard, glad you found a great deal.
We are still hoping to go 30’ or less.
All 3 RVs we have owned were bought used.
Alice
I don’t fault you for passing on the Durango. Everyone has what they like and dislike. I’m sure you’ll find something that you don’t mind compromising on. Good luck in your search!
Robert,
Thanks. We had a bad experience with the KZ reps, too.
We are willing to compromise but want to feel like the company we pick will better for us,
Alice
We have a KZ travel trailer going on four years now. Absolutely love it! We are actually looking at a Durango 5th wheel on our next purchase. We love how the Durango has a huge past thru storage. Safe travels! Oh in 4 years we never open the windows. 😂
Glad you like yours. But there are too many things we don’t like about the rig.
Alice
we hope you find what you’re looking for!
Take a look at Northwood and Outdoors RV, they are built in Oregon on their on frame, also considered to be more "Four Seasoned"
Northwood builds a 27-5L which is a small couples 5th wheel with large tanks for boon docking
Charles,
We looked at those 4 years ago. Love them - except they still have carpet? 🤔
But we are in Florida - very very rare to find them anywhere close to us,
Alice
They have done a major interior remodel for 2024, but their availability in the SouthEast is very lacking, Texas and the NorthEast are the closest dealers I think.@@DownsizingMakesCents
We’re looking at 2 Outdoors platinum fivers 2015 & a 2019. Have yet to touch one as none are in town.
@@Elizabeth-rq1viThat’s difficult- I need to physically walk around and touch everything
We had an older Arctic Fox 5er from Northwood rear kitchen setup. Loved the rear kitchen and Northwood builds a solid unit.
Jeff,
We wanted one 4 years ago, but can’t get them anywhere near us. Won’t by one without walking around in it,
Alice
I totally get it. I love the way your husband crawls around under and through the unit, I do the same. Especially the frame, that's what impressed me about Northwood. Ours had great cabinet work, overall construction was spot on. I think ours was rated for off road as well, sat up high. I wouldn't hesitate buying a used Arctic Fox after inspection of course. @@DownsizingMakesCents
Tri D&H RV out of north Carolina they have plase in Jacksonville,Fl they sale arctice fox 5ers
@@DownsizingMakesCents we purchased a 2017 Arctic Fox 1140 at D&H RV in the Raleigh NC area last year ..really loved the concept of going just about anywhere the truck will go. We also owned a Grand Design Solitude 310 GK for our longer trips and three months in Florida during the winter months. We recently got cold feet about the issues with the GD frames and traded our truck and fifth wheel for a Tiffin class A motorhome. We will be putting our Arctic fox 1140 up for sale in the spring when we get back in town from winter break. I can say one thing that the Arctic Fox truck camper is built like a tank and we will be sorry to see it go but no longer have a truck to haul it around.
@@jeffpankau8164Jeff,
He may be the only one that does a tour of the underbelly 😅 but after what happened to ours? I don’t blame him
Alice
My opinion only, we have 2 friends that had their frame come apart and delamination on their Keystone. I would never have one. Enjoy your videos! Be safe traveling.❤
Cerita,
Sorry to hear that. Happened to Grand Designs, too.
Was it pandemic built? Were they taken care of?
Important points.
Thanks for sharing and for the well wishes,
Alice
@DownsizingMakesCents One got a new 5th wheel out of it and paid the difference for a bigger one, and it's frame fell apart too. The other friend got their 5th wheel replaced with a new one of the same thing. The new one delaminated too!
No they were way before pandemic!
We just watched this one and the next one. Enjoyed both! I agree, those windows being non-functional would be a deal breaker for me, too.
Thanks, Marc. Larry loves the frame and such. And I love the clearance.
Alice
@@DownsizingMakesCents I'll admit, I wasn't a big fan of the layout on that one either, at least for us. But that's why they make cars in different colors, right?
I don’t think you’re crazy for deciding against it due to the windows. You know what you like and what is important to you!
I hope you find your new rig soon! Thanks for taking us along on the hunt and explaining your thought processes!
Beth,
Thank you. I’m exhausted looking at so many rigs - at the show and online.
And we are still looking at property 😳
Alice
Agree with others to swap out skylight for a ceiling fan in the kitchen..... works great in our RV.... KZ is one of few 30 ft 5th wheels with a fireplace and good closed up access...good luck!
Interesting, everyone we toured had a fireplace 🤔
I get that a vent would help. But lots of other issues, including the poor treatment by a KZ rep when we questioned about the code,
Alice
@@DownsizingMakesCents Agree Alice.... Maybe Mark should intervene on your behalf?? He did that KZ tour last year and developed a contact. At least voice the ridiculous answer you received! Thanks for the reply!
@@gkfce1I talked to KZ reps. Marc is a buddy of ours and they didn’t seem to recognize his channel 😳
@@DownsizingMakesCentsAlice,Larry....just put $ down...rear facing sliding window in KZ250 slide...! Amazing. Unit has dual pane window package.... just sharing. We were shocked...lol We'll keep following Larry's new spreadsheet adventure. Best wishes....
KZ made close to where I live and we believe they are the best you can buy!
The window issue and how they treated us made them go to the end of the list
We went to the show. Our favorite based on quality was the Alliance RV’s.
Got it. Unfortunately, we didn’t find one of theirs that fit our needs,
Alice
Did you look at the Alliance Avenue 29RL?
Yeah, the windows not opening would be huge to us. Also, it feels more enclosed with only one window in the bedroom. And outside kitchens is just a place for more storage! Can't wait to see what ya'll decide on🔆
Great minds think alike.
We may have to buy old and just customize 😁
Alice
@@DownsizingMakesCents Nothing wrong with that. I'm always looking to see what else we can change in our rig to make it more unique to us. Good luck finding your new home!
We LOVE the 240 and will be ordering soon. We don't mind the closed windows as both those large windows open and creating enough breeze for us. That drop frame storage is to much to pass up on for us. We've also never had issues with schwintek while many others have.
The drop frame and frame in general is pretty sweet.
It’s not just the windows, but how we were treated asking about the windows.
But I hope you have a better experience,
Alice
Love the outdoor kitchen, it would be the only reason why we would consider shorter. Or any for that matter, nice job
Thank you. We should have the Brinkley fifth wheel tour today.
Alice
I have 2 small windows in my rig, and the fantastic fan works great.
4 years in our rig and on hot days dry camping or boondocking? 🥵 and we have a maxairfan
Alice
That window situation is a bummer. Good luck with the next one👍🏼😎
Thanks, Rick. Having a hard time finding one we like,
Alice
Best of luck as you search for your new home
Audreye,
Thank you 🤗
Alice
That furrion tankless water heater is a great unit. I install tons of them and had great success with them. The tankless water heaters are extremely efficient in a boondocking situation due to it only consuming propane when the water is flowing.
The question is how much water does it take to get the water hot enough to start a navy shower? Not worried about propane use especially since most rv are coming with 12v fridges that dont offer propane option. Larry
Durango Gold are the ones made for full timing. I’m avoiding any “lite” or half-ton as they just seem on the surface not to be built to endure full timing.
Elizabeth,
Unfortunately, when we go up in levels, they get longer and longer.
Why can’t they make a short and solid fifth wheel?
Alice
Look at Outdoor RV and Northwood. Not perfect but are solid & short
@@luminousveiwsthanks
Check out the Northwood Arctic Fox Grande Ronde 27-5L. Best built Four Season 29' 9" x 8' 6". Nearly the same floor plan as the KZ. Keep the great videos coming.
Bill,
We would love to have an Artic Fox. But none close to us to physically tour.
Thanks so much,
Alice
My last RV was a KZ. It was a 2007 and I traded it in for our current 2021 Winnebago. So got 14 years of good usage out of that trailer.
Did you travel full time? How many miles?
Thanks,
Alice
We looked at this one last week. It is on the short list. The non opening windows was a big no for us. We too thought the outside kitchen needed to be storage. They said they could replace the frig with a two way frig, with a pantry. The other thing I did not like was the interior steps to the upper deck, the rise is much greater than other 5vrs.
Interesting that they said they could make changes.
It’s definitely off our list. I didn’t notice the steps.
We are going in the direction of a brand I didn’t think I would.
Stay tuned 😉
Alice
You guys should look at the Reflection 270BN, which is much lighter than your Solitude and has the same suspension upgrades as the KZ. Plus ABS brakes. We have the Furrion On Demand water heater and when boondocking we set the temperature so we just use the hot tap in the shower and turn it right down to a trickle but it keeps the burner on and you save water. Happy shopping!!
Bryan,
KZ has a very unique suspension support.
And the reflections we saw had same window issues we have with our Solitude- windows that don’t open or barely open.
Lastly, we just don’t think GD is right for us anymore.
But I’m glad you’re happy with it,
Alice
One maker you may contact is Allen Manufacturing in Oklahoma. They seem to build them more traditionally, with all the pros and cons of that, but being a small outfit I had read somewhere they were open for some customizations that big builders were not. I came across them looking for a tiny 5th wheel, as they make one under 25’.
It’s so hard to find something that’s simple and well made these days!
Thanks for this.
And I completely agree with you. The short ones seem to be made cheaper than the big boys? I want smaller - not cheaper,
Alice
Exactly!
I don’t need to pull a mansion behind me, just something with space for 2 and made with quality.
Great video 📹...I'm with you on not settling 😊...Good luck ✌🏿 🏕
Mark,
Thanks. We are willing to compromise but there were too many things. And how we were treated by a KZ rep when we questioned the window code? Not good,
Alice
I'm impressed by the drop frame for storage. We're just not fans of rear kitchens. I think that's where you're getting the non opening window code from. BTW, why no more bed sides? We finally got one, and we love it!
Lane,
The drop frame was nice.
The window code? Other brands at the show had rear kitchens with all windows opening? 🤔
Bed slide? Noisier; heavy on slide mechanism causes problems; no side tables; etc. We thought we put on the screen about our constant problem with the bedroom slide?
had one for 4 years and hate it.
But lots of flavors for a reason,
Alice
I don’t know what I would do. There has to be other options for them to help you with the windows. It’s very nice. It’s in your price range. Maybe look a little more maybe something will come to you. If you don’t like this one. Sorry I didn’t help much. I’m happy with whatever you get! Just can’t wait to see what you get.
Sherri, we appreciate all your help - you are one of the few that watches and comments all the time 🤗
Alice
@@DownsizingMakesCents
Aw thank you Alice! That’s I love you guys and I try help. I wan what’s best for you both money wise. With being on a budget. I love and care for you both! 🤗🤗❤️❤️
Alliance has a number of shorter Avenue fifth wheel (All-Access models) that have fully opening windows. Our friends just got a 26RD and love it.
BTW, I have never heard of a code that said windows can't open. Maybe directly over a heater or furnace exhaust? IDK
Joseph,
Appreciate it but have couch and viewing windows on drivers side? And other issues.
Alice
That is a beautiful rig
😅
😁
Looks like I could add a separation panel on the side of that wet bay.
Chuck, yes. That could easily be fixed. But not the windows,
Alice
Yup i would definitely add a panel there also to keep the water out of the basement. larry
Rear Kitchen. On the fulcrum from hitch to rear bumper, the rear end will have the most up and down movement. Rear kitchen is an "out" for us.
Thats a good point about rear kitchens, that would put a lot of weight in the back. Larry
@@DownsizingMakesCents I am more concerned with all that stuff in the cabinets and the fridge taking all that bouncing. This 240RKD has 1,590 CCC, so less than your 2,000 minimum. I like the floorplan of the 283RLT, but it only has 1,120 CCC and a kitchen island, so I know that's out for you. It's nice that KZ has 16" wheels and tires on all their 1/2 Tons. Too bad they don't make these floor plans up in the 2,000 CCC plus range.
Good luck
Tim, thanks,
Alice
There’s extra clearance over the leaf springs because the leveling jacks lifted the frame up.
Kz added a 6 inch crush tube under the I beam, increases the clearance Larry
@@DownsizingMakesCents if you’re referring to the gap between the top of the axle to the frame, it’s not affected by the addition of the short frame tube. The short frame reinforcement is still where the spring hangers are mounted. What you are looking at, is an unloaded leaf spring, so it has big clearance, and you can see the spring is not loaded by looking at the bottom of the tires- there’s no deflection of the tires at the pavement.
We seriously considered that Durango model when buying in 2019 before settling on the Flagstaff 528RKS. Not sure that Flagstaff still offers the 528RKS.
Mike,
I saw that it was 33’. We are trying to go more than 2’ smaller than our current rig.
But thanks for the suggestion,
Alice
Hi, Alice and Larry. I wish we had gotten to meet you while you were at the show. Your choces are many and you'd probably be wise to make and prioritize a checklist if you haven't already. You deserve anything you want, but dollars and "cents" are important, right? I have noticed that weight, distance, and frequency of travel are large factors in chassis demands. GD seems to blame the Sumo bag improvements, as some other manufacturers do. Try to look for a heavy-duty frame if it's available and take your time to make a final decision. You two are so much fun to follow because of your humor and real approach to life's "bumps in the road." Best regards, John J
Check out Keystone's Half ton Cougar series. I have the 25RES and it's listed as 29.5'. 1780lb pin weight.
Thanks for the suggestion
We are looking for the big viewing windows to be on the camping side - along with seating area. Plus, we want a TV directly across from the seating area.
Alice
You guys do you ! You mentioned many changes you would do ? 🤷🏼♂️ Good luck .👍
Ralph,
When you live and travel in a rig full time, mods are inevitable,
Alice
@@DownsizingMakesCents
Changing things are okay. When you have small home base that doesn’t mean you have stay for months at a time . I’m always going places . It’s nice to have a place to re group before traveling again! Good luck moving forward whatever you do ! 😁
The storage in the kitchen looked great. We hate Shwintek slides too, but at least those are small. Would never ever buy a full wall slide with one. We once walked away from a rig because of the refrigerator. What's important to you is important, and that's ok.
Michelle,
Oh, the frig is an issue, but we found lots of rigs went to the 10 cubic. Which stinks if you are in it for months or full time.
These RV manufacturers just don’t get it.
Alice
If it doesn't feel just right, don't do. It is my experience, but if you find yourself continuing to go back and look at it every time you compare it to others then it might be the one. But if you find you walk into another one and go okay. This is so much better than that one. Then you may find that those windows might be the thing. That was the perfect thing holding you back from making a mistake
Waylon,
You are so right.
Plus, I just got a bad feeling the way we were treated by a KZ rep when we questioned “ the code” since other manufacturers with similar floor plans have windows that open 🤔
Alice
Look at rockwood/flagstaff we got 2016 and love it. 32 ft but they go a 29 ft would love to have it.
Howard, 301 RK is one we are looking into.
Thanks,
Alice
I spotted a vent on the ceiling in the kitchen.......what about adding a fantastic fan in that vent opening and that will pull air from another open window to "create" a breeze in the kitchen area. ??? KZ is one of the few "mass builders" of trailers that I would consider.
That’s an idea.
But the windows were not the only issue.
The KZ reps just didn’t seem to care about us as potential customers,
Alice
It seems like you want to change a lot of things on the Durango so maybe its not the one for you, if you think about it I couldnt get past the windows not opening either. That would aggravate me to much. Good luck! Im enjoying your videos!
Karen,
Thanks. We agree. Too much we didn’t like. Though Larry loved the frame.
We are still looking.
And thank you for supporting us 🤗
Alice
@@DownsizingMakesCents hopefully you'll find the frame you like and the whole RV will be perfect!! Cant wait until the next video comes out!
good luck guys with what ever rig you get safe travels
Thanks, Allan,
Alice
I'm all about the cross breeze and windows we can use when it rains. Slanted not slide.
Unfortunately, if they are slanted, not much breeze. If they slide, you probably have to close them when it rains - unless it’s the ones under the awning.
So pros and cons for both.
Alice
The way they make them 1/2 ton towable is by using lighter materials.a FREIND of mine owns own the floor failed! Never wet all traffic areas became weak!! Tore it apart to replace floor 1/4 inch plywood with styrofoam. Look at it close! Ask lots of questions about how they lightened it up!! Good luck!
Keith,
Excellent point. Unfortunately, we found that the half tons do seem to be built with lower quality materials.
We don’t want cheaper - just smaller. We don’t even need a half ton - we have a Ram 3500 longbed crewcab dually,
Alice
Look at the Keystone Cougar 26 RBS you will be amazed!!!
Jeff,
We looked at Cougars. But the one you mention looks like a travel trailer. We are only interested in fifth wheels. But thanks,
Alice
@@DownsizingMakesCents Alice me and my husband Jeff have the 26RBS and it checks all of our wants and needs, being empty nesters also and we’re about 4-6 months till retirement we plan on snowbirding next winter. Our 2 kids are gone and don’t have any desire to hang out with us anymore….
Down sized last year. We went from a small 5th wheel to a 26' Intech Terra Rover (NO Slides). The size of our 5th wheel was nice but I was tired of watching the walls bowed in and out as the "Schwintec" slide went in and out. Just about every RV manuf. uses the wrong plumbing fittings when they use the vinyl hose. They are suppose to use barbed fittings which are a different size than pex fittings. Also the quality of the caulking job makes a big difference. For me, the quality of the frame, suspension, tires, plumbing fittings and quality of the caulking are things I would look for. Good luck, there is no perfect rig.
I agree sometimes if you go behind the walls in the basement, you see all kinds of shoddy work and incorrect wiring and plumbing. There is no perfect rig but after 4 years we know what we want, but nobody makes it, haha. Larry
I bet "the code" you mentioned is related to the outside kitchen and its proximity to those windows. Exhaust gasses could potentially enter the RV. It's ironic that the kitchen that you wouldn't use is the reason for the odd windows. I say stand firm on what you want. We are also shopping for a trailer, and windows that open wide is a top priority of mine.
Other manufacturers have about the same situation but windows open 🤔
It was weird how they treated us because we questioned the code.
We didn’t walk, we ran away 😁
Alice
Have you researched KZ quality and customer support? We are also researching for a fifth wheel purchase. As poorly as most RVs are built, manufacturer and dealer support are my initial priority. Just my cautious opinion. Good luck on your life change.
Peter, based on how we were treated by a KZ rep?
Customer service is so important. GD has definitely fallen short lately
Alice
Look at the keystone cougar fifth wheel they are nice and no floor vents ,and look for 12 volt frig
Brian,
We spent a lot of time in the Cougar area.
And it seems most other manufacturers went to the 12 volt,
Alice
Have you guys seen the problem that “paving new paths” are going thru with their GD?
No. But wouldn’t be surprised. That’s why I’m steering clear on them.
Alice
I even seen a video we’re the airstream units are falling apart! It’s the inferior steel coming from China ! 😬
Two things are easier to get past than a single one. Only "one thing" creates a focus that will always be a sticking point. Anything that creates a focused doubt will be a focus for years to come. I hope you wait for the perfect unit.
Good point.
Unfortunately, there were many issues - including how we were treated by KZ rep when we questioned about “ the code” that other manufacturers don’t seem to have,
Alice
Any camper you get Use Fluid Film on all of your underbelly metal. Keeps it from rusting.
Thats funny, i used cans and cans of fluid film on the suspension of my boat for 20 years, kept the whole trailer from getting rusty,, also sprayed the engine all over, creates a protective barriers from salt . Larry
What do you think about the Alliance Avenue All-Access 24RK? It seems like it has the things you like about the Durango and doesn't have the things you don't like.
Unfortunately, TV is very high up.
Seems like the TV - besides windows - is a real issue
Thanks though,
Alice
I can't argue that. TV is important to me as well. It's where I watch my @DownsizingMakesCents videos. :D
@@UncleTracy 😁 love it
Have you ever considered a grand design reflection 150 260RD...we have one and we love it! Large area for couch (3 people) one slide and under 30 ft
Chad,
Thanks. We did. But other rigs like the Keystone Cougar have windows that actually open wide. And we won’t buy a rig that blocks the bathroom and bedroom when slide is in. Did you see Wayward Waggs issue - trapped in bedroom? Slide issues.
Plus, we think our time with GD is at an end.
But we are glad it works for you,
Alice
The 150s are off my list because the bedroom/bathroom can’t be accessed with the slide in. Having access to the BRm is why we’re not tenting…other than the very large dog we own.
Great review/inspection. We spent so much time researching before wd bought our (previous) travel trailer.
We owned a Rockwood Signature Ultra Lite for nearly 8 years. It had actual solid hickory wood cabinets which i still miss. It was a BH so once our girls grew up we started looking for a couples 5th wheel. We had our eye on the GD Solitude since they first came out. When we were ready to trade, we opted for used 2018. We love it and plan on keeping it for a long time but it does have things I dislike (fake wood everywhere, shoddy workmanship and cheap parts for faucets, connections and fixtures) so we are systematically replacing and upgrading.
I would hesitate on KZ but definitely agree GD isn't all it's made out to be.
I wish you great luck in finding your next rig! 🙏❤️
Thanks. We agree with cheap parts on rigs.
We don’t care about solid wood - we want practical. The less weight the empty rig is, the more we can add.
For instance, our solar system that Larry installed himself is quite heavy - not the panels.
The big issue is that RV manufacturers seem to think because we want smaller, we want cheaper. 😡
Thanks again for sharing your experience,
Alice
@@DownsizingMakesCentsI agree. RV manufacturers have no clue - even if they are told what people want.
I know what you're saying and definitely keeping weight down is important. (I will never justify a dishwasher in a fifth wheel - nor a washer/dryer for weight) But, the solid wood cabinets were not any heavier than these pressed fake doors in our Solitude that absorb moisture much easier than real sealed wood.
Not having those windows open and the air vents in the floor would be huge drawbacks for me.
Gary,
Yes. The vent in the middle of the floor? Another issue,
Alice
Rear kitchen units lose the large trifold sofa / bed and seem to have poorer window set ups as you have identified. I suggest looking a the Cougar 5th wheels. they have some nice units in the upper 20ft ~ low 30 ft length with larger nicer windows iin several models. Some have lower list prices too! Go to keystone rv and select fith wheels and cougar look at the floor plans and specs. they have several lines of cougar 5th wheels. premium, 150 etc.
Thanks for the tips! We actually toured a few cougars,
Alice
Our rockwood 2016, 7900 somethimg can weigh about 9600 something its great but wouldnt tow with half ton. Hot 1996 f350 dually crew cab. Cant tell its back there. And when backing you can 90 deg it
Howard,
We have a 3500 longbed crewcab dually - that’s not why we are looking at half tons.
We want to downsize and they are mostly half tons,
Alice
Don’t forget to get your Matt’s cash from Matt’s RV. He also gives out free stuff for the toilet. But for me it would be a deal breaker on the windows…..they are a must when in the Hot weather and your AC goes out. Also they are saying to really be aware of the RVs right now because of Quality. So do your homework!!!! Good luck!
Kathy,
We would prefer to buy used, especially since we can’t find what we want and will have to mod. -maybe 2019 or before.
Matt is our first choice to deal with it,
Alice
Non opening windows would be a non-starter for me also. Did they explain this "code" that they were hiding behind?
Mike, they never explained and seemed annoyed we doubted the code,
Alice
i had a kz... lots of water intrusion prevention problems.. it got scrapped when about 18 years old from water problems
Tim,
I’m impressed it lasted 18 years?
Alice
What about large windows on camping side
That’s one of the reasons we didn’t buy it. See our latest video,
Alice
Your final question "One thing freaking you out and couldn't get past it"? I call them "non-starters" and I have a small group of non-starters. I saw one immediately, and you made a passing comment about it but nothing further. Floor vents! Besides the issue of dirt falling in and periodically removing cover to vacuum out which is a minor issue, the major issue is pet unfriendly as paws get caught in them. While you don't highlight having a pet, I do see a dog in several of your videos. What I find amazing that manufacturers with multiple lines will have sister products with near identical floorplans, and one will have floor vents, the other won't. Example would be Keystone Cougar (floor vents) vs Arcadia (cabinet base vent). While understand bad taste with GD, in the 30' range check out Alliance and the Keystone Arcadia.
Larry,
Excellent points. The floor vents? Didn’t think of Scruffy’s poor paws 😔
Yes. Unfortunately, it seems smaller rig equals poorer quality.
That’s not why we are downsizing.
So we might have to switch gears - again - and look at the higher lever fifth wheels. But not many are small.
But we looked at Keystone. Alliance? Haven’t found anything that ticks major boxes.
Thanks for the suggestions and the great info on the vents,
Alice
@@DownsizingMakesCents Good to hear that still looking. Many times with the time lag in publishing on TH-cam, it is already a done deal by the time we see it, then an official announcement in a second video. Thought afterwards the reverse of the question you posed. Not "must have", but "all things being equal in finalist selection, tie-breakers". Thinks like bonus points for Azdel vs laminate, single piece fiberglass roof vs TPO, etc.
How about ask him can they add a ceiling fan that pushed the air outside so the other windows open would bring air into that area
Tom,
Appreciate the thought. We have had a rig with windows that don’t open on one side for 4 years. We have a max air fan and small fans we plug in. It’s not evough
Did they explain what the code was for the windows and why they couldn't be changed?
Ruth, this one KZ person became quite annoyed that we questioned the code - especially after we said we saw many other companies with almost exact set up with windows that open.
They never explained
I think it’s cost - windows that open probably cost more,
Alice
The only reason for " code " to come into play would be if there was a gas appliance that vented near the window . Looked like it was about to storm in Shipshewana that day .
Have you considered an Outdoors RV or Northwood (Arctic Fox)?
Yes. Not a floor plan we like
Were there any other fifth wheels that size without islands?
We actually had to go BIGGER to get away from the industry standard island kitchen. I hate island kitchens, and even more so when you watch the many videos of them bouncing around when your towing them!
Yes. Many other brands.
We agree with @krisbeaver2901
I think our island is still standing only because dishwasher is holding it up 😆
Alice
💯 agree
Dont settle. Get what you want. If they really want tosell ome, they will acommodate somehow.
Well, they seemed not to care
Alice
Learn about the code and why the windows are not allowed to be opened? I assume it is related to some type of exhaust port from a heater etc. If so, then investigate about relocation options for the exhaust port and be able to replace the windows with ones which open. Simple. 😉
Actually, many other manufacturers have the exact layout but their windows open?
Alice
Brinkley is my favorite 5th wheel but they don’t make a half-ton. I would have passed on the Durango too because of the windows.
Andi, we are only looking at half tons because they are smaller.
We looked at Brinkley - too big for us,
Alice
Frameless windows like the one you cranked open are horrible for cross breeze. Sold ours with n the same camp year,hated it..
Lorance,
💯 That’s how they are in our GD.
We now want practical- not pretty
Alice
We have a GD Reflection 150 Series 5th wheel that is very similar to the one you are looking at in this video. All of our windows open. Ours is a 2019 model so maybe the "code" has changed. Oh yeah, and no vent in the middle of the floor. Too bad you all are tired of GD.
Rey,
The Reflections we saw had the living room slide block the bathroom and bedroom.
And the windows didn’t open like in the Cougars.
Glad you are still happy with your rig,
Alice
been there
So frustrating
All of the windows open in my Jaco that sucks
Mike,
Why shouldn’t the windows open. Crazy.
For my style of camping, I would not buy a camper that the windows do open. Especially in the kitchen. I had a trailer I liked a lot but it had a bedroom slide and no window on that side. So I picked another trailer. Have to haze good cross breeze. Good luck finding a trailer fast fits y'all.
David,
Excellent point - it’s the style of camping.
If you are on full hookups all the time? I guess you don’t need windows that open. But I would think at least have them in the kitchen to help with heat and smell? But then again, many people don’t cook in the kitchen.
Lots of ways to RV. And thanks for the well wishes,
Alice
Have you looked at a reflection 150 270bn?
Doesn’t look bad, but same issue with windows - the ones that open barely open like our Solitude.
But appreciate the suggestion,
Alice
Are you talking about the frameless windows that just tilt out?
If your Ram is a diesel, did you get the recall yet?
Kevin, thanks. Larry is researching it,
Alice
So does that mean that you’re not going to get a home base ?
Wilma, oh no. We are still looking. But we also don’t want to stop RVing,
Alice
Why get a new rig? Use an inspector and get a used one. The warranties are mostly time suck, full price money wasters. With a used rig, if something breaks, you either fix it yourself or call an rv tech and get it fixed a whole lot faster than if it was a new rig. You save a lot of money and time in the process.
Diann,
We have never bought new - 3 rigs experience
We looked at new because we were at the show for our channel.
Plus, some older rigs really don’t have newest innovations.
But if we couldn’t get a deal on new? No, we wouldn’t buy,
Alice
Inoperable windows are a deal breaker.
💯 Glad someone gets it 😁
Alice
The hot water on demand is only Propane gas only. No electric what I understand
I didnt know that, but it makes sense electric would have a hard time delivering that kind of heat on 120v power. Larry
Montana 5th Wheel has a big basement
Do they have a 30’?
Frankly, I’m really not enamored of islands in fifth wheels. They make accessing much of your kitchen difficult when you’re in road mode.
As far as the windows go, well there’s always a compromise when you’re buying an rv, but you have to decide what’s important to you.
Tim,
Agree with the island and the compromises
Alice
You can tell the quality of the company that built this from the access holes in the basement, from the wiring (how it's installed, secured and not just looped with zip ties) to the access holes cut into the floor (nice finish cut - no over cuts and sharp edges), and even how it was insulated and caulked...From your videos of the basement - I'm not impressed with the quality or the workmanship of that particular rig...
Unfortunately, it seems manufacturers cheapen out when they make them smaller.
We are willing to pay for high quality in a smaller fifth wheel, but hard to find one under 30’
Alice
One foot pad missing 😮 no way 😂
We were wondering if anyone noticed that 😁
Alice
Nice seeing you guys in your video , about Reinforcing the SHACKLES , we did that on our 2019 Grand desing 303 RLS also
@@algau5025 Any rig we get, we will beef it up in some way.
And thanks, we are trying to “get our faces out there” more. It’s been a bit crazy 😉
Alice
PLS , Take care on the road , Good shopping for your next Rig
✌
HINT: If youre just going to buy property and plunk a home RV on it, then I wd get the biggest used RV I could get. the new ones just depreciate like a snowball in hell, so to speak, although its fun looking at them. Then to do the alaska trip, get a good sized used camper to put on your truck and go with that, to arrive in alaska in deep summer ie july/august.
Lauren, we don’t plan on plunking our RV. We hope to travel 6 months in the summer and occasionally in the winter.
Alice
definitely a fun plan! @@DownsizingMakesCents
Say I would like the rig except for the windows if you can’t change them out I will look elsewhere be firm.
Curtis,
We were very clear we were unhappy with the windows & that they say it’s code?!
Alice
Back in 2010 we had a 32 ‘ KZ Sportsman travel trailer was a very nice trailer how about a fan in the kitchen and suck air in or out and turn on anther elsewhere
Glad to read you had a great experience.
We just have many reasons they may not be right for us,
Alice
I'm skeptical of the "half-ton fifth wheel" label. I will be greatly surprised if you load up that fifth wheel camper and hitch it to a half ton truck and put the truck and camper on the scale and the truck is not overloaded. The dry hitch weight is 1790 lbs plus 150 lbs for a hitch plus maybe 300 lbs of occupants. That requires a payload of 2240 lbs before loading anything in the camper. Better hang on to your dually.
We have a dually. We are looking at half ton for its size.
That's my point. I know you're aware of truck payload issues and you know how to do the math. You're not likely to find a half ton truck with a payload of 2240 lbs +. Maybe go to a truck dealer and look at some payload stickers. My '20 F150 XLT SuperCrew with aluminum body has a payload of 1862. My similar 2013 steel body truck had a payload of 1602. A half ton truck with that camper attached will likely be overloaded. @@DownsizingMakesCents
Now I realize you're talking about the camper when you say "half ton". That confused me because "half ton" is a term describing the truck and not the camper. The RV manufacturer describes the camper as a "half ton" trying to get the buyer to think a half ton truck is capable of towing the camper. But I don't believe that a half ton truck can tow one of these "half ton" campers without being overloaded. It's misleading advertising.@@DownsizingMakesCents
I’d never pull that trailer with a 1/2 ton. They don’t have enough braking capabilities. Also traveling in the wind out west will give you a ride your truck can’t handle.
No worries here - we have a Ram 3500 longbed crewcab dually 😁
Alice
Brinkley or no RV these days, everything else is so damn cheap.
We looked at the Brinkley - don’t have one short enough.
They do look pretty though.
Such a new company - love to wait and see how they last and what people say about customer service,
Alice
I searched for two years then bought KZ D315RKD.. $45k OTD
2 years? I can’t wait to go camping. Yikes.
😁
Alice
Retirement was two years away so I started watching YT and going to shows. Bought a truck for $15k. I'm all in at $60k.
Put your own windows in. Easy peasy.
Bruce, we would have to see if those window sizes even exist. Then we would buy used version - otherwise you are losing the warranty on a new rig.
We thought about it. But there were other issues. Windows was one,
Alice
Put your own in?
There goes your warranty
Do not deside untill you go through factories.
Howard,
We don’t have the luxury of factory tours - but there are plenty on TH-cam 😉
Alice
I have never heard of KZ rv’s until now and tbh I was not impressed. The bedroom looks very dark, I would definitely need another window in there. I would not buy this RV and would go with something better made with superior materials.
They have been around since the 70s
But lots of issues,
Alice
Me too and I have my share of issues too...🤣
Is U-R Transmission inthe Truck Automatic if it is U-R Screwed Up need A Truck with Dual Wheels (Dually) 1-Ton Standard (Manual Transmission)Cus Manual weighs maybe 2,000 LBS. Automatic Transmission Now days 14,000.LBS.See what I mean. Good Luck.
Roger,
We have a dually
Heart land not mabe very good. Go to elkhart go therogh factories. Go to How indana first look at DRV, then compare all others to it. Then go to grand design, heart land, then go to rockwood you will be amazed at the quality for the price.
Howard,
Appreciate the advice. But flying to Indiana is not an option.
And DRVs are not in our price range.
Thanks for the advice,
Alice