New

[New to Rv]

My name is Tom. I am looking to purchase a 5th wheel. I like the Dutchman Astoria 3603. I see a couple other brands out there that have exact same floor plan but not quite the cost as the Dutchman. Is this because of name brand or are there differences?

 

[widdershins]

There are always differences, many you can't see... because if you can't see it some manufacture don't really care to do a good job.

Sometimes higher end models will use better quality components. I think a good example are the 'vent fans' that some manufacturers install.. tiny little 3 or 4 inch fan in the opening hardly does anything. Better models might include a fantastic fan which moves are a ton better and will likely outlast the cheaper stuff.

 

[Germanrazor]

The other thing is, many manufacturers and even models have tiers that brings more quality to a build. We have a Reflection 28 BH which is basically a mid tier. There is the 150 series Reflection which uses some cost savings. Then there is the Solitude model which uses some higher end finishing. I would look to a manufacturer that has great customer service feedback from consumers. That is why we bought Grand Design. But even then, they all can drop the ball as you will discover.

Good luck. What will you be pulling with?

 

[Weighit]

Looking on line for that model shows it is a 40 ft 5th wheel with 1 a/c unit? Maybe the one your looking at has 2 but 1 would never cool a rig like that if your in any area with warm temps. Are you shopping new or used?