Buying a new 5th wheel

[Pocktdeuces]

Hey all,

Have looked at different options for RVs the past couple years, and have settled on a 5th wheel (other option was a ~B+ motorhome.) Dont have a truck yet, planning to buy the 5th wheel first and base the truck off that, unless a great deal on a 1 ton truck comes along first.

Looking for input on what brands/models will fit our wants best. Its just 2 of us, no kids planned. Mostly 1-2 week trips for now, with maybe a 4-6 week trip per year also. Its possible in the future we end up taking it somewhere warm for the winter and spending 2-4 months living in it. We're 37/38 years old, have done a lot of tent camping but wanting something a bit more luxurious for travel now. Looking at new because of a few different reasons, #1 being allergies.

We want something built well, quality higher end materials. Dont have any preference of brand, dont have a specific layout in mind or even length decided on yet. It seems like most of the larger ones are built for families, where we only need 1 bed.

Any input is appreciated!

 

[TheLooks]

If you can stand industrial look but built to last, look at ATC. If you want conventional, I won't name any but will say get one with azdel sides as they don't rot if a little water gets in and high end is laughable in this industry. Tiffin announced they are discontinuing their high-end Vanleigh 5th wheel line. I know why after touring one at the Dallas RV show last fall.

 

[gulfstream chump]

Don't buy a gulfstream you'll be sorry.
Azdell chips like ceramic tile.

 

[RDiowa]

I am starting my research now for a near future retirement and think I have mine down between a Jayco Pinnacle or and Alliance Paradigm.

 

[Pocktdeuces]

If you can stand industrial look but built to last, look at ATC. If you want conventional, I won't name any but will say get one with azdel sides as they don't rot if a little water gets in and high end is laughable in this industry. Tiffin announced they are discontinuing their high-end Vanleigh 5th wheel line. I know why after touring one at the Dallas RV show last fall.

Thanks for the reply. The ATCs dont look to be our style, tho they do look roomy inside which is great. Touring around the Tiffin Vanleigh, unimpressed? They look nice in pictures.

 

[TheLooks]

The interior quality was abysmal. Lifelong carpenter/homebuilder with custom cabinet background. Looked like a complete child finished it. They couldn't even take the time to vacuum out the sawdust from construction in the cabinets. Very poor presentation.

 

[Pocktdeuces]

I am starting my research now for a near future retirement and think I have mine down between a Jayco Pinnacle or and Alliance Paradigm.

These both look really nice, the Alliance Paradigm looks ideal in pictures. I'm not sure I want to drive a 40'+ fifth wheel, so its great that they have a 33' which looks like its actually still quite livable.

 

[Pocktdeuces]

The interior quality was abysmal. Lifelong carpenter/homebuilder with custom cabinet background. Looked like a complete child finished it. They couldn't even take the time to vacuum out the sawdust from construction in the cabinets. Very poor presentation.

Thanks Looks, this is great feedback. Have no interest in buying something thats going to fall apart quickly.

 

[RDiowa]

Both have 5th wheels under 40ft, a big reason I am looking at those two brands.

 

[Weighit]

We have owned 2 5th wheels over the years and now into motorhomes. But if we were going back we would only buy used and start watching the various publications that list used RV's to see what is out there. Then make the drives, trying to stay within a comfortable mileage from home to look at ones that we thought were worthy of a look see. Seeing the rigs at the homes can give you a good idea on the care the unit might have been given. There will be some decent deals coming as the economy faulters. Besides, the first owner would/should have corrected or attempted to fix the faults built into the new rig.