Buying Fifth Wheel Trailer, Any Tips Welcomed

[DeezelDood]

Experienced RVers,



Sold my home and want to full-time RV for a year or so. Have never owned a fifth wheel trailer, but looks like a better option than a motor home (I previously owned one) or travel trailer.



Since I'm new to this arena, I would like some help from those with 5er experience. I have done some research, but the more I do, the fuzzier my head becomes. However, I have come to a few conclusions:



1. I/we (wife included) want a 4 season coach w/3 slides, ranging in length from 34 - 37 feet.



2. Want a used 5er 2000 - 2002. Leaning towards Alfa, Nu-Wa, Newmar, and Sea Breeze (National RV).



3. Must be able to hold a stackable (not combo) washer/dryer.



4. Must have good axles, suspension, and G rated tires. What's best, Torq-flex, leaf springs, etc... ?



5. Want good, strong slides. Is hydraulic or electric motor better?



6. Need good A/C and heat units. Must be able to heat well in Alaska winters, and cool well in Arkansas summers.



7. Must be known for longevity/quality.



Doesn't necessarily have to have all the glamorous things, just functional and dependable. Something that won't shake apart on the ALCAN.



Ordered a new 2004. 5 (only 'cause I couldn't find a 2004 equipped the way I wanted it... you guys bought up the good ones) 3500 4x4 QC ETH/DEE to tow with. Will be equipped with an exhaust brake. Looking at the B&W turn-over goose-neck ball and companion 5er hitch... any others? Too, will install Brakesmart brake controller. Lots of other mods, but will have to add those when the wife isn't looking.



Okay, I have pad and pencil ready to take notes. Oo. Oo. Oo.



Thanks.



Dwayne

I have no experience with 5ers but I have one valuable tip. Go to rv.org and buy the ratings CD for $79. You will get valuable info on almost every brand under the sun. Coaches are rated for reliability, value and safety. Some models will have high ratings on reliability and value, but poor ratings on safety (towability). Mfrs will have some models that are rated high, but other models that are rated poor, usually because of towability. Recommended prices are also included. This disc is most useful for buying used coaches, but you will get a good feel for mfs and models. Most models are carried through year after year. That said, you will not go wrong with a Northwood product (Nash, Arctic Fox, Desert Fox).

 

[cksh8me]

I'm not a full time RV'er but since you sold your house and are going full time. I'd look into what it takes to get your residence in Montana or Oregon. You are looking to make a big purchase and they don't have sales tax. Between sales tax and vehicle license fees it could save you a bunch of cash.

 

[JSchooley]

Lots of good info here.

I had 2000 SeaBreeze. Loved the trailer in general. I had a blowout that damaged one of the plastic skirts. It took over 3 months to get a replacement part from the factory. When we did, all the skirts had to be painted so they would match.

I bought a Cameo. I thought that was the best engineered trailer I had ever seen. Unfortunately the wife didn't like the layout and we had to sell it. Main problem was no side tables or shelves on the slide out bed. No place to put a lamp, clock. book etc.

We now have a Glendale Titanium. Certainly worth a look. They have a very active users group. Titanium RV Owners poke around the site if your interested.

John