[boomer23059]

I've had two different towables and starting to look at fifth wheels. There are so many manufacturers, brand names, line names, and models it's mind-numbing.

My current towable (a Zinger by Crossroads) is an 'entry level' trailer, which I learned means "cheap materials, cabinets, and parts." For example, I've had my slide-outs fixed five times because the supports are too weak.

For my next camper, I want to go with a high quality manufacturer. I know how to look for solid wood cabinets, etc., but my question is how to figure out if a camper is quality on the inside as well. I'm not asking who sells the most expensive camper, but who builds with high quality components.

If you don't have a generic answer, I'll take your recommendations based on your experience with various manufacturers and lines.

Any suggestions?

---------------------
2011 F-250 4X4, 6.7L PSD, 3.31 ELD, 6-3/4' Bed
King Ranch Crew Cab Golden Bronze over Adobe
Adobe Interior, Power Sunroof & Roof Lights
Nav System with Sync
5th Wheel Prep Package &Tailgate Step

 

[fordsforever73]

A friend of mine (who is an rv guru) told me whenever you're looking into an rv, you want to see plywood construction and to stay away from OSB built trailers. So when I traded my slide in camper for a fifth wheel, I was happy to see plywood everywhere. Look in behind cabinets, drawers, under couch, beds and in storage areas. Also noticed more screws than staples. I know there are company's now that use aluminum or metal studs but I don't know enough to make a comment on them. BTW, my 5'er is a 25' Travelaire with fiberglass walls.

 

[bigb]

When my Dad retired he went looking for a high quality manufacturer and ended up getting an Elkhart Traveler. They went to Elkhart Indianna and ordered it to their specs. My Dad is VERY budget concious so I don't think Elkhart is the most expensive, but I do believe it is (or was) a quality rig. They travelled around and lived in it for five years. Keep in mind this was over 20 years ago, just something to check out.

 

[chuckster57]

I used to be loyal to Fleetwood and ever since I bought my Jayco in '98 I am a Jayco fan. I had to replace my black tank in 2010 and my local dealer (sells more than just Jayco) said that Jayco is about the only maker left that still makes their own parts. With the last 8 of my VIN I was able to get a factory replacement!

If I was looking again, (and I sort of am) I would look at a Jayco again.

 

[Fred Gosch]

Top Quality 5th Wheel

If you're wanting a High Quality trailer, look closely @ NuWa in Chanute, Ks.
They have a very complete line of very good units that you can buy direct
from factory or local dealers. Go to their website at NUWA.com
We have had Hitchhikers since 1999.

 

[Jerryc]

I second the vote on Nuwa. We bought a 2003 Champaign Edition in 2005 and we still haven't found anything we'd change.

JC

 

[LeeChristianson]

Good info.. After reading the post I found this: Minnesota RV | 2004 FIFTH WHEEL NuWa HitchHiker Champagne 35CK

Seems like quite a unit.. I have one now but may want to trade for a unit that can take most winter temps.. What's the verdict on the one above??

 

[LeeChristianson]

Update: went to look at it.. WOW.. By the time I got into the office another buyer had inked a reader..

Dang.. Well, 'ya snooze, ya lose'..

 

[wandrr]

Check out the DRV line at DRV Suites . Very high quality builder. Their rigs are designed for the full-timer.

 

[carringb]

Best construction hands down is Arctic Fox. It's the only trailer specifically designed for off-road abuse. They don't have as many bells and whistles as other trailers, but they have the very sturdy frames and body structures, and are a true 4-season trailer.

 

[wubbs95PSD]

Heartland is a pretty good mfg of high end trailer I'm happy with my 09' Big country and i have lived it for work since i bought new in 08' it has almost 25-30k miles on it. the only issue has been the front landing gear gearbox wore out cause
Kurt

 

[ryqster]

If you want to buy new, your choices are somewhat limited. Nu-Wa probably the best next to some of the specialty builders (Spacecraft comes to mind). I own a 04 Teton (no longer in business) which is one of the best. One of the problems that comes along with high quality is weight, so make sure your truck is up to the task. Go to the escapees web site Escapees RV Club – the club for all RVers and research there, lots of great opinions. If used is ok steer clear of entry level unless it has had very light use. Carriage, Nu-Wa, Teton, Alpenlite, Mobile Suites, all pretty good choices. What ever you decide just look it over with a fine toothed comb, and realize many manufacturers are gone with many more on the edge.

 

[ryqster]

Best construction hands down is Arctic Fox. It's the only trailer specifically designed for off-road abuse. They don't have as many bells and whistles as other trailers, but they have the very sturdy frames and body structures, and are a true 4-season trailer.

I like Arctic Fox as well...well made, just limited in the sizes available. BTW great van.

 

[PerryB]

High end 5th wheel

I'd be looking at Carriage or Nu-Wa. If I could afford one that is!!! Meanwhile I'll have to stick to my Montana, which has been a pretty good rig so far. Its been from N.Cal. to Alaska & back (last summer) and to Minnesota & back this summer-Don'tcha know. A few minor hardware malfunctions but nothing of consequence.

 

[edinning]

If you are still looking, I have a Carriage Cameo. It's been great had a few minor problems all repaired under warranty. I would buy 1 again. I'm looking to sell my Cameo and New Horizons, DRV Suites, are the top units on my list. I think Carriage is the only camper that has a 2 year bumper to hitch warranty. The high end RV's have a huge mark up. Make an offer 35% lower than MSRP. You will find a dealer willing to sell at that price if it's a cash no trade offer.
Good luck. I will sell you my 09Cameo if you are interested.

 

[bluebuffalo]

Good-fiver

There have been a couple of recommendations that said Nu-Way and Carriage, and I agree whole heartedly. If I could afford it, I would have a Hitchhiker (Nu-Way) or a Cameo (Carriage.) Instead, I have a Holiday Rambler. Someone suggested a Heartland. Heartland has some nice units, like the Bighorn and others..and they look impressive and have great interiors. Quality cabinets, countertops etc. BUT, Heartland uses Lippert frames and axles. Just like my Holiday Rambler. If you want a QUALITY fiver, you don't want one built with a Lippert frame/axles. So that leaves out 80% of the campers built. Climb under any camper built with a Lippert frame, and than climb under a Cameo or Hitchhiker. BIG difference. The welds on my Holiday Rambler look like a monkey welded it. The axles are very light, as is the frame. Which is why Hitchhikers and Cameos are heavy.
In my opinion, they are better than Jayco, but Jayco does use Dexter frames and axles, which are 100% better than Lippert. And there are middle of the road Jayco's, and upper end units as well that are better.