My husband and I want to buy a new travel trailer but can't seem to find any good info for ratings and comparisons on different brands. We don't want to buy one with a "to good to be true" price and end up with junk after 2 years. Anybody have any good suggestions where we can get some good info? Thanks
Go to the RV Consumer Group's website and check out the information they can provide about specific brands and models. They publish the Green Book (now on a CD) which is a directory of just about every model from every manufacturer complete with highway safety, value, and durability ratings. It's invaluable for making comparisons of brands and models based on more than just showroom glitz or sales hype.
If you're new to this game then the $98 you spend on a membership will pay for itself many times over, especially if it keeps you from making a very expensive mistake.
As far as I can tell, most of the popular brands of TT's are more alike in quality of construction than they are different. But, there are a few generalities that seem to work:
1. Inexpensive wood-framed TTs are the weakest structurally. Wood-framed TT's can be quite strong--as Arctic Fox & Nash have established, but they are not inexpensive.
2. Aluminum-framed & steel-framed TTs tend to be adequately strong for most folks.
3. Rear kitchen models LOOK great & very livable but the rear of the coach is the worst riding part and that tends to wreak havoc in the kitchen.
Start with a good idea of the tow vehicle you will use. Determine its towing rating and then use no more than 80% of it. For example, many 1/2-ton pickups are rated at 10,000#, so look at TT's with GVWR's of 8,000# or less. If you want a TT over 8,000#, then figure you'll want a 3/4-ton truck as a tow vehicle. Length matters too as that determines the leverage of that weight as well as sail area.
Now look at floor plans and decide what kind you need. Look at the other details, too. Look at used TTs also so you can get an idea of how well they age, but also for a great deal. Our first TT was an oldie, but is sure was a goodie. Must better than the new brand new ones we bought next even though all were the same 'quality' brand.
Steve & C. J.
"Gracie" the Rough Collie & "Bo'sun" the Bichon Frise
PM me your email address and I'll forward you a copy of "RV Comparison Guide". I found it to be very informative when comparing TT's & 5'ers.
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I don't think there are any easy solutions to your dilemma. I suggest that you spend a lot of time looking at various models by different manufacturers. Learn to look for type of construction (wood, aluminum, fiberglass, etc.), and the fit and finish of different units. We've gone to a lot of RV shows, and after looking at a lot of units, you can start to see the differences. Look carefully at how interior cabinets are constructed. Ask and get verification of whether any pressed board is used in construction. As you start to see units you are interested in, search the forum for posts about the specific unit or the manufacturer.
As you visit various dealerships....ask them what they consider their highest quality and medium quality units, but always be aware that many salespeople will tell you anything to make a sale.
And, for the most part, you have to pay more for quality. I bought a Sunline for that reason...quality product designed to hold up for the long haul. Unfortunately, Sunline went out of business. But...I'd even buy another Sunline (used) just because of my experience with their product.
Other companies that are on my list when and if we trade in: Jayco, Starcraft, Arctic Fox, Sunnybrook, and Holiday Rambler. Then, there are other companies that are even pricier that make products for full timing. The brands I've listed have lines that I consider good to excellent quality at affordable prices. Note that these companies make cheaper entry level products as well as higher quality products. If you look at the various lines produced by Sunnybrook, you'll see what I mean.
good luck on your search!
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