Worst 5th Wheel Brands to Avoid.

A 5th wheel RV (recreational vehicle) is a van equipped with conveniences like beds, cooking utensils, and more for a temporary stay, especially during a holiday trip. RVs don’t come cheap, which is why it’s such a great idea that you take enough time to critically research 5th wheel RV brands before taking the final purchasing decision.

Even though newer RV models come equipped with latest amenities and conveniences, it’s not unusual to come across brands that don’t meet your specifications or worse; RVs with all kinds of unexpected and embarrassing issues.

Below is a list of 5th wheel RV brands to avoid like a plaque:

1. Fleetwood

Fleetwood 5th Wheel

This well-known brand, around now for more than six decades, has obviously lost touch with its ability to continue to deliver high-quality products to its end users. Apparently, their focus is now on producing more RVs than paying special attention to total quality management.

Many recent owners of this brand are discovering that the quality of the interior is nowhere near the quality standard of other RV brands. For instance, the seats of newer models peel and collapse faster than it should, losing its value and appeal in a matter of a few years.

Another issue is the battery. They sometimes refuse to recharge. After a memorable timeout camping and you’re ready to return home, you might discover much to your shock that the battery is flat, leaving you stranded in the middle of nowhere.

2. Winnebago

Winnebago 5th wheel

This brand is no new-comer in the RV industry. And even though they have a fleet of enviable models that can compete well with other top-notch brands, some still lack the high-quality standards expected of a brand like Winnebago.

The reason for the drop in quality is probably due to not being able to effectively balance quantity and quality.

As demand increased, it became more and more difficult to keep up with the quality standards that made their products sought after in the first place.

Embarrassing leaks, failing lighting system, and caving-in wall panels are top on the list of issues that this brand has, and why you should avoid it.

3. Coachmen

Coachmen 5th wheel

Around long before many buyers were born, and with several models to choose from, Coachmen’s main issue, judging from buyer’s complaint is its poor workmanship.

Drawers and slides are not able to hold as much weight as they should. Showers and sinks leak, making a mess of the floor in the process.

You may also like: Top 6 Best Luxury Fifth Wheels in 2018

4.Gulfstream

Gulfstream 5th wheel

Gulfstreams aren’t made with special consideration to high-quality workmanship. Hence, inner and outer screws are known to loosen without warning, after only traveling a short distance.

It’s not unusual to have heaters, refrigerators, and even standby generators malfunction when you least expect, messing up what could have been a fun trip and getaway!

Amazingly, when you take a Gulfstream for repairs, some technicians refuse to work on it, leaving you confused and frustrated.

5. Thor Hurricane

This brand is not mainstream like the others. However, the manufacturers are so nonchalant that the new Thor Hurricane RVs are sometimes coupled with fairly used parts!

Not surprisingly, roofs leak, parts rot, and there have been some recalls on the basis of exhausts positioned too close to areas where they could easily catch fire; failing battery control centers which in effect is the powerhouse of the entire vehicle; uncalibrated parking brake capable of making the RV’s braking system to fail in motion!

Well, there you have it! This piece was put together in hopes that you don’t fall prey to any of the flaws of these otherwise popular 5th wheel RV brands.

What to look for when buying a used RV Trailer or Fifth Wheel?

Are you planning on going on a family road trip? Or are you looking to buy a used RV trailer or fifth wheel?

There are a couple of factors to seriously consider if you do not want to buy the wrong used RV trailer or fifth wheel. In recent times, RVs have become more in demand than ever before and used RVs are becoming more sought after, below are the factors to consider when planning to buy a used RV or fifth wheel:

Ownership

You need to be sure of the ownership of any used RV or fifth wheel you are planning to buy, in order to avoid purchasing a stolen RV or fifth wheel.

Also, if you buy an RV from the owner, you will be more disposed to get full information on the RV and all its issues if there are any, you would not want to buy a faulty RV or fifth wheel.

Maintenance Records

Maintenance records tend to give you an idea of the shape of the RV. The maintenance records tell how often the RV has been maintained and the repairs that have been made on the RV, which helps you decide whether to buy the RV or not.

Tire Conditions: Before buying a used RV or fifth you must know the condition of the tires, information such as the tire mileage and the time the tires were last replaced.

This will help you understand the shape of the tires and help avoid accidents in the future. It also helps you keep tabs on future expenses, for instance, the tires of a class A rig are quite expensive, and that is beneficial information.

Water damages

The shape of the plumbing of an RV is a very important factor to consider when buying an RV or fifth wheel.

You will be wise to inspect the roofing, check the walls for soft spots that are caused by water leakages, such leakages can be a significant hazard to your RV or fifth hee you check the condition of the engine before buying a used RV or fifth wheel.

Most people sell their RVs mainly because of the engine or general car issues, so be on the lookout for issues with areas such as clearance and brake lights, jacks, water pumps, faucets and all other parts of the RV or fifth wheel in order to avoid buying the wrong RV.

Shower and toilet conditions

The shower is going to be one of the most used parts of the RV or fifth wheel, especially if you are planning to go on a family trip. Make sure you check the shower and toilet and make sure everything is in order before buying a used RV.

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