jlrmfc21
Midlothian, VA
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Joined: 05/02/2009
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Looking for a quality used class C for a family of 4.
We’ve had two travel trailers in the past and one had issues - and it was the one we bought brand new in 2018 after tons of research.
Decided we want a class C now and we don’t want it in the shop al the time.
What brands do we need to look at and what do we need to absolutely stay away from?
Looking at 31 ft and larger.
Thank you!!!
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Home Skillet
Pearland Texas
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Joined: 10/21/2004
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No such thing as a quality RV.
Unless you look in the $500k and above range.
2005 Gulf Stream Conquest 31ft
BigFoot Levelers,TST in tire TPMS,Bilstein Shocks,Trans temp guage,Lowrace iWAY
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rlw999
Washington State
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Joined: 08/19/2020
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Well the good news is that the Ford E-350/450 chassis/drivetrain that most of them are built on is very reliable, so you probably won't need it take it to the shop for chassis issues.
The only advice I've heard consistently is to stay away from Thor. (but that's not based on any personal experience).
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wanderingaimlessly
Kerr Reservoir
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Joined: 08/23/2017
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C's have some of their own issues as well as the general ones.
Water intrusion/damage in the cab over area along with the sag that can follow it being the big one.
Havent seen documentation on it, but have to believe the solid front cap like the newer Jayco's have is the best, overlap front joints like the Forest Rivers are next, and the small edge moulding like were used on a lot of thors would be the least reliable.
Also look at the floors, are they all on one level or are there 2 or even three height levels? Some with the raised rear area can be a nuisance after enough toe stubs.
And if you can, get a 2017 or newer for the 6 speed tranny.
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bobndot
USA
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Joined: 08/21/2007
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Home Skillet wrote:No such thing as a quality RV.
Unless you look in the $500k and above range.
Even then ...
I think they upped that to $2 million now ![[emoticon]](https://forums.trailerlife.com/sharedcontent/cfb/images/smile.gif "smile") .
and when you do have problems after spending that amount, it hurts even more, besides that, they want them taken back to the factory not the dealer.
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Dusty R
Charlotte Michigan 48813
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Joined: 04/05/2003
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We'er on our second new Itasca, I don't remember any real problems with them.
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wanderingaimlessly
Kerr Reservoir
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Maybe this?
Jayco
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pnichols
The Other California
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Joined: 04/26/2005
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Home Skillet wrote:No such thing as a quality RV.
Unless you look in the $500k and above range.
Do you mean that with respect to only new(er) RVs or in all RVs, period?
Our 2005 Itasca 24V Class C on an E450 chassis has been kindof great on quality ... it has: The original Onan generator, the original toilet, the original water heater, the original GW and BW tanks, the original flooring, the original cabinet doors drawers and hinges, the original microwave, the original oven and cooktop, the original Norcold 120V/gas refrigerator, the original furnace, the original air conditioner, it's 2nd set of Michelin tires, it's 3rd set of coach batteries, it's 2nd chassis battery, it's 2nd set of V10 exhaust manifold bolts (grrrrh), it's 3rd water pump (grrrrh), and it's 2nd cabover window (grrrrh).
We even take it off road and nothing in the coach structure "has fallen apart or come loose" - yet.
2005 E450 Itasca 24V Class C
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jlrmfc21
Midlothian, VA
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Thank you all for the info. I’ll def look at the itasca now too.
What about the Forrest river foresters?
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Bordercollie
Garden Grove, CA, USA
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Joined: 03/07/2002
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I think most of the name brand Class C's are of similar quality in terms of materials and workmanship (mediocre). Drive trains are mostly Ford E-450 and quite reliable/trouble free with normal use and maintenance. Materials, workmanship and sturdiness of the house box vary. Phoenix Crusiers and Lazy Daze and a few others cost considerably more but are known for their quality of construction. Most motorhomes use the same air conditioners and furnaces, RV generators, refrigerators, water heaters, etc. regardless of brands. Most makers offer entry level and fancier Class C's. Try to learn what you can and be sure that size, floor plan, sleeping accomodations will serve your needs.
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