We are looking at a fifth wheel for our future retirement. We will be using the RV for lengthy stays to escape both the heat of summer and cold of winter. We've narrowed our selection down to three different brands. The Grand Design Reflection, Dutchman Denali, or Open Range Roamer. Any recommendations?
kb0zke said
03:07 PM Jul 24, 2016
I've heard quite a few good things about the Grand Design. It sounds like you are looking for a full-time coach, or at least a long-time one, so I'd suggest that you move up a bit in the Open Range line to the 3X series.
RCV said
03:10 PM Jul 24, 2016
Thank you for the recommendation. We'll check out the 3X. We like the Grand Design other than you can only access the washer/dryer through the closet. Wish they would put these behind their own door.
jayc said
11:56 PM Jul 24, 2016
Heartland RV's produces three brands of fifth wheels that are rated and warranted for full time use. Check the link for the Landmark 365, Big Horn and the Big Country and take your pick of floor plans, lengths and options. We have been very happy with our Landmark.
DunnDeal82 said
02:34 PM Jul 25, 2016
My wife and I are getting ready to purchase a 5th wheel and I have spent the last 4 months pouring over everything I could get my hands on, books, forums, on-line sites and went to every dealer within 100 miles to see each brand and we have set our sites on a DRV. (MOBILE SUITES 44 NASHVILLE) We did like the Grand Design Solitude and Heartland Landmark, both very nice RV's.
The craftsmanship is unmatched in my opinion, we have looked at almost every brand and manufacture available and feel there is a difference in quality and workmanship. They are more expensive but if you are thinking of full-timing as we are then quality of insulation, heavy duty axles and wheels and full-time livability is a must.
This being said, I am new to RVing but have spend many hours reading posts, asking questions and doing actual footwork at dealerships. This is a GREAT forum and plenty of folks here willing to help as you are probably finding out.
Happy hunting and best wishes!
Dave
-- Edited by DunnDeal82 on Monday 25th of July 2016 02:35:40 PM
RCV said
02:55 PM Jul 25, 2016
Thanks for all the recommendations. We are leaning toward the Grand Design Reflection.
Russ and Cheryl
Retired USAF Vet, working as Airport Manager
Wife is Retired RN
Already have the truck (2012 Ford F350 Superduty), now need the Fifth Wheel :)
kb0zke said
06:44 PM Jul 25, 2016
I'll second the suggestion of the Mobile Suites. If we went with a 5'er that would be our choice. Suggestion: before you buy anything, go tour the factories of the brands you are considering, especially if you are wanting to buy new. One brand that we had considered was crossed off our list due to what we saw at the factory.
Lynn and Ed said
07:08 PM Jul 25, 2016
I have no experience with any of the brands you are focused upon, but I have heard good things about Grand Design. Beyond the above comment to tour the factories, I would highly recommend attending owner group rallies. As you get to know the owners they will share the good and the bad, and you can first-hand see how the RVs are holding-up over time.
RCV said
07:18 PM Jul 25, 2016
We appreciate the recommendations to both tour the factories and attend owner group rallies. Both excellent recommendations.
Thanks
Russ and Cheryl
kb0zke said
05:40 AM Jul 26, 2016
Also join the owners' forums for the brands you are considering. If they won't let you join until you buy that would be a big red flag for me. Otherwise, join and ask questions. You will generally get good answers. Don't be put off by all the questions about this doesn't work, how do I fix that, etc. People ask questions in order to learn, not to bash the brand they own. Ask about known issues - all brands have them - and find out how to check to see if the repair has been done properly.
jayc said
08:33 AM Jul 28, 2016
I sent you a private message.
RRRaybon said
04:34 PM Jul 28, 2016
We are also planning to become fulltimers. We are looking at the Keystone Montana High Country. Does anyone have personal knowledge about this RV? Thanks.
We are looking at a fifth wheel for our future retirement. We will be using the RV for lengthy stays to escape both the heat of summer and cold of winter. We've narrowed our selection down to three different brands. The Grand Design Reflection, Dutchman Denali, or Open Range Roamer. Any recommendations?
Thank you for the recommendation. We'll check out the 3X. We like the Grand Design other than you can only access the washer/dryer through the closet. Wish they would put these behind their own door.
Heartland RV's produces three brands of fifth wheels that are rated and warranted for full time use. Check the link for the Landmark 365, Big Horn and the Big Country and take your pick of floor plans, lengths and options. We have been very happy with our Landmark.
My wife and I are getting ready to purchase a 5th wheel and I have spent the last 4 months pouring over everything I could get my hands on, books, forums, on-line sites and went to every dealer within 100 miles to see each brand and we have set our sites on a DRV. (MOBILE SUITES 44 NASHVILLE) We did like the Grand Design Solitude and Heartland Landmark, both very nice RV's.
The craftsmanship is unmatched in my opinion, we have looked at almost every brand and manufacture available and feel there is a difference in quality and workmanship. They are more expensive but if you are thinking of full-timing as we are then quality of insulation, heavy duty axles and wheels and full-time livability is a must.
This being said, I am new to RVing but have spend many hours reading posts, asking questions and doing actual footwork at dealerships. This is a GREAT forum and plenty of folks here willing to help as you are probably finding out.
Happy hunting and best wishes!
Dave
-- Edited by DunnDeal82 on Monday 25th of July 2016 02:35:40 PM
Russ and Cheryl
Retired USAF Vet, working as Airport Manager
Wife is Retired RN
Already have the truck (2012 Ford F350 Superduty), now need the Fifth Wheel :)
I have no experience with any of the brands you are focused upon, but I have heard good things about Grand Design. Beyond the above comment to tour the factories, I would highly recommend attending owner group rallies. As you get to know the owners they will share the good and the bad, and you can first-hand see how the RVs are holding-up over time.
Thanks
Russ and Cheryl