Heartland 5th wheels, Sundance model, anybody know

[pwr2tow]

I'am looking at a Heartland Recreational Vehicles, Sundance Model 2900 RK. I've never heard of this company and was wondering if anybody here knows anything about them? The 5th wheel I'am looking at has alot of higher end model features and the dealer in my area is making me a pretty good deal. Before I decide I thought I would check in and see what you guys have to say.

 

[Grizzly]

I can not find it on my RV Consumer Group Guide. I need more information on it. Nothing shows up under Heartland nor Sundance. I need the RV brand name.

 

[Troubleshooter]

Heartland is the name of the manufacturer; Sundance is one of their models (along with Landmark, Bighorn, and several others). They are a fairly new brand, about 3 years or so. Website here: Heartland RV - Fifth Wheels, Toy Haulers, & Travel Trailers If I recall the story correctly, the founders formerly worked at one of the larger, mainstream manufacturers and formed their own company to address what they saw as shortcomings in the market for a mid-priced entry. The Sundance is their mid-price; the Landmark and the Bighorn are the expen$ive (and heavier) models.



I looked at the Sundance model when I was shopping for an RV last year, and found them fairly well-equipped for their price point. I liked some of their floor plans, and gave them pretty serious consideration. IIRC, the 2900RK had its fridge in the very rear, and the slideout prevented access to it unless extended. That was a big design flaw from my perspective, as it would prevent me from making a quick snack on the road (e. g. , at a rest area or truck stop) without taking time to extend the slide. One of the other things that made me decide against them was that the closest dealer to me at that time (about 4 hours' drive) was shall we say, less than helpful.



I eventually ended up buying a 5th wheel made by Crossroads (website here: CrossRoads RV, Fifth Wheels, Travel Trailers, Destination Trailers, Park Models, Toy Haulers, Recreational Vehicles ) Their "Cruiser" models are comparable in features and price with Heartland's Sundance line, as mid-entry level 5th wheels. Despite some minor issues, I am continually impressed by the number of "standard" features on the Cruiser, which is also what drew me (and I suspect you too) to the Sundance line.



I can also tell you that Crossroads has been very responsive in addressing warranty issues with me. However, since I ended up not buying the Sundance, I cannot offer any first-hand experience with Heartland's long-term reliability or customer service.



Sorry that I wasn't able to fully answer your questions, but hope that helps some.

 

[Foil Freak 1211]

The dealer I bought my Gulf Stream Sea Hawk from now carries the Big Horn. He says it is slotted below the Gulf Stream Prarie Schooner. The dealer also told me that the owners of the company came from Gulf Stream.

 

[Grizzly]

I found the Sundance on my RV Consumer Group. It's well rated at 3 stars, with Highway Control being it's best rating of 96. This is on a 0 to 5 star rating system. I saw the floor plan where the fridge is trapped in the slide out, which makes for a poor design. Other then that I thought It look very good. List price before options is $41,205 and with good negotiations you may get 25% off of list. You may also want to consider the Arctic Fox, made by Northwood Mfg. They are 4 star rated.

 

[pwr2tow]

troubleshooter,
Very nice report and helpful.

foil freak,
Thanks and nice to know the owners come from a reputable company.

Grizzly,
Good to know it's rated at least average or a little above. If 25% off list is correct and $41,205 is the starting point before options then I'am making a hell of a good deal trading in my camper. This camper was ordered from the factory without any options but came to the dealership with every option available for a 2008 model. The dealer told me that when they order a camper a specific way and it comes with more options than ordered the factory eats the difference in price. Due to this he can sell me the camper with all the options at no extra cost to me. According to your list price and what we end up at in trade using your 25% off it looks like I'am getting 3-4 grand worth of extras at no cost. Even the 16" aluminum wheels with the extra 6,000 lb rating. Looks like I better jump on this deal before someone else gets to it.

Thanks to everyone for your insightful help.
Ron

 

[Grizzly]

troubleshooter,

Good to know it's rated at least average or a little above. If 25% off list is correct and $41,205 is the starting point before options then I'am making a hell of a good deal trading in my camper. This camper was ordered from the factory without any options but came to the dealership with every option available for a 2008 model. The dealer told me that when they order a camper a specific way and it comes with more options than ordered the factory eats the difference in price. Due to this he can sell me the camper with all the options at no extra cost to me. According to your list price and what we end up at in trade using your 25% off it looks like I'am getting 3-4 grand worth of extras at no cost. Even the 16" aluminum wheels with the extra 6,000 lb rating. Looks like I better jump on this deal before someone else gets to it.









Ron. the best part of the rating is Hwy Control is 96 on a scale of 1 to 100. Reliability = 70, Value = 70. Sounds like this may be a good unit. Your pricing strategy sounds good too.

 

[pwr2tow]

Good to know the rating is 70/70, would have been nice if higher but at least it's not 50%.

We are going to look at the unit Monday morning and then head to a camper show in Minot ND to compare campers and prices. Then to decide what we want/need to do.

Thanks everyone for the info.

Any more is welcome, good or bad.

Thanks,
Ron

 

[georgej]

Go on RV.net for more information reguarding fifth wheels. Some say to avoid AL-KO axles or china made tires usually from their experiences. Lots of reading there may save you some headaches.

 

[puller]

You need to go to heartlandowners.org it is run by an individual NOT the factory however it does have a place to ask the factory questions. Lots of good info and idea exchange.



Puller

 

[pwr2tow]

Just got back from a 4,000 miles trip and thought I should share my experiences.

Day one went and picked up new 2900RK Sundance by Heartland. Loaded goods from our camper to new camper. Excited about trip.

End of day one. Look in cupboards and shelves are broken. Front full lenght closet shelves are broken. See light coming through around entry door jamb. Living room slide out does not seal properly. Bed slide window howls from wind. Do not sleep very well.

Day two call dealership and explain problems. He says bring it back and we'll give you another camper for your trip. Drive back and pick up a 2008 285RKBS Cherokee by Forest River. Dealer gives us back our check and we pay for new camper at a lot lower price. Dealer says if we don't like this one he'll let us trade on another at what we paid for the Cherokee and his cost on another one.

Cherokee pulled nice, got 13 MPG. Nice camper for the price. May keep it. Will see what else he has to offer, at least he's working with us.

Side note: every camper manufacturer will produce a lemon once and awhile, same with any manufacturing process.

My even look at another Heartland product.

 

[Troubleshooter]

Sounds like you got a lemon of a trailer but a peach of a dealer who stands behind his customers. Not an entirely bad situation, all things considered.