Motorhome question

[sshane]

Hi all! We just returned from our first trip to FW in January, fell in love with the place and are now looking to buy a motorhome to replace our fifth wheel. (more space for the 20 hour drive down!)

Anyway, we think we've narrowed it down to 2 models, but are fairly new to the whole camping thing and are just looking for some input from more knowledgable people. They are the Forest River Georgetown 357QS or the Tiffin Allegro 35QBA. Any thoughts or suggestions would be greatly appreciated! Thanks in advance!

 

[69RoadRunner]

I would go to www.rv.net/forums and www.irv2.com/forums and ask the same question.

Are these new or used models?

Tiffin has an excellent reputation.

 

[sshane]

These are new models as we have been unsuccessful finding used ones that aren't ripped apart because they were in the rental fleet.

Thanks for the links. I'll be sure to head over there.

 

[we3peas]

We used to own (used is the operative word) a FR product. Never again, we were sucked in by the floorplan, and completely overlooked the cheap quality. When shopping for our current MH we went over everything with a fine tooth comb. Researched reputation and workmanship. If you are looking at a Tiffin product I would definetly go that route. My in laws own one and they are very very happy with it. The owner of the company is very much involved with his product and cares about his product. Something that I can't say I ever found to be true of FR. Your drive will be so much better with a MH especially coming from so far away.

 

[docbrown]

We own a Tiffin MH and love it. If you want to learn more about them visit this site:
http://www.tiffinrvnetwork.com
They are not affiliated with the manufacturer and you can find honest info and great support .
Just take your time and research your purchase.
Good luck.

 

[LORNADUCK]

We have a Windsong by Forest River, which is no longer made. We brought it used, execpt for a few minor problems,(which any MH has) we are very happy with it. It is a 2003 and we brought it about 18 months ago. I love it and felt that we got a lot of bang for the buck. The cabinets are way better than most we saw in our price range.

 

[motofamily]

we have a diesel pusher Cross Country sports coach and love it. We looked at bigger nicer units but decided on this unit. However in a couple of years we will be looking at the Tiffen line. I am at race tracks all over the country and have heard good things about there products and factory SERVICE... I say go for what you can afford but if it was me I would look at the tiffen.

Sorry if my spelling is bad I have to go to sleep!!!

 

[sshane]

Thanks to everyone for their input. My DH has been leaning towards the Tiffin, but I am concerned because the closest dealership is over 3 hours away. As we all know, things go wrong and need repairs. I'm just not sure that I am wanting to make a 6 hour round trip drive to get minor repairs done.

 

[seven dwarfs]

We own a Tiffin Phaeton. It is a 07. We have had some issues with it. From what I understand it must be our luck because most people don't have issues with Tiffin units! We took it back to lazy days for some work and they were surprised at the silly problems we have had. I will add that Tiffin corp is one of the best out there. I have been in contact with them and they have fixed every issue I have had. I would recommend them highly. If you have a RV with issues, which happens, it is the customer service that is the most important. My parents own a fleetwood bounder. It is also a nice unit. They have had less issues with their bounder but, they are back at the factory as we speak after a very long fight due to a slide leaking. The service has not been good. Good luck with what ever you decide. We owned a travel trailer first. Loved it. We have six kids so it was way to small. We love our RV! It has been a worry some with this recession but have talked about going without ac just to keep our unit if it came to that! lol

 

[WeCampDisney]

Hi sshane. Have you tried RVT.com for used rv ads. I use it all the time, its a great way to find any rv. I found my first and my second trailer this way. I have done extensive research on rv buying over the years. Most any rv can have some problems, there are just so many complex systems, like a truck and a house combined. Thats why I think it is sometimes better to buy a late model low milage one owner unit instead of a new one. Any factory defect will be found and fixed within the first year or so. I don't buy the extended warrentee, its often a big ordeal to get things taken care of. I just carefully check out all systems, and look closely for any signs of leaks. With both of my trailers I got units as good as new for thousands less and I have had no trouble at all. Also this way I can shop for any brand, anywhere I am willing to drive to. Our local rv dealer has a nice big quality service shop and they can fix anything on any brand, if I ever need it. There is no way I would buy a new RV, or a new car for that matter. I am into value for the dollar. I think most brands are about the same. I have noticed that Tiffin and Winnebego both have a loyal following. Itasca is Winnebego. I would love to find a nice one of these brands in my budget. I will soon sell my trailer and start saving up for my class A. I will buy one in 2 years, and take it to the Fort for July 4th. Happy shopping and Fort camping!

 

[tlh0726]

Take your time on your decision.

And as it said on another forum that we subscribe to

Buy your last coach first

 

[DaveInTN]

If you are looking at the Allegro 35QBA, I assume you want a bunk model. That is a great MH. You might also check out the Winnebago Sightseer/Itasca Sunova 35J, another gas class A bunk model. We've had our for over 2 years and love it. If you are open to a good used unit, you might find one of these as they've been out for 3 years now.

You'll find in researching that both Tiffin and Winnie have good reputations for quality and customer service. Take your time with the search, and have fun with it.

 

[des1954]

Didn't River Forest go bankrupt?? I'd double check the manufacturer of whatever you are going to buy before plunking down the cash. A lot of RV manufacturers have gone belly-up this past year, and obtaining parts could be a problem.

As far as MH's are concerned, we've owned 1 Southwind, 1 Dutch Star (Newmar), 1 Travel Supreme, 2 Winnebago's & 1 Itasca. I'll take a Winnebago/Itasca anytime. JMHO.

 

[tim5055]

Tiffin Allegro 35QBA

 

[sshane]

So sorry that I haven't been on to reply in a bit.......technical difficulties.

Thanks to all that helped us out. I reallly appreciate all of the input and we have been doing TONS of research. I think we are leaning towards the Tiffin even though we will have to travel a bit to purchase/service it. We are really looking forward to travelling with a MH and hope we can get a deal put together before the big camping season begins around here.

 

[torquelover]

The Tiffin seems to be the better choice. Are you going with a Ford or a Workhorse chassis?

 

[sshane]

We are going with the Ford. My DH talked to several people that advised us to get the Ford. I know he initially wanted the workhorse, but changed his mind.