The Pros and Cons of the New Ultra Lite RVs

      As much as we enjoy our RV we have had our experiences with the ultra lite construction of these new models.  Our previous RV, a 31' Keystone Cougar was GVWR rated at 9000 lbs, but built with solid oak cabinetry and construction throughout.  Our current RV, the Rockwood Windjammer is 4 feet longer at 35', but 1000 pounds lighter.  That has to come off somewhere........which we have been discovering for the past two years.  First of all you DO NOT travel while hauling tanks of grey, black, or fresh water........too much weight.  The most I've risked is maybe 13 gallons (1/3 tank) of fresh water so as to have flush and dishes water for an overnight boondocking or till set up.  This rig is GVWR at only 8000 pounds.  The issue here is that this GVWR is based on a lower overall frame support weight.  

      The first year or so went by uneventfully with little or no maintenance issues.  I did replace the factory tires after 10 months as they were a lame "C" series tire, a 6 ply tire with minimal sidewall.  We experienced sidewall leakage after the first winter south.  I upgraded to a series "E" tire which is 10 ply and holds 85 psi, but I fill no further than 65 psi due to the factory wheels are NOT rated higher than that.

      Additionally on several occasions we have had to repair the hinge mounts on cabinet doors.  These are 'cam type' lever latches screwing into particle board.  With even normal wear and use they become quite loose.  I learned quickly that to repair these I needed to use either wood glue or Gorilla Glue and one size larger screw.  The factory mounts are just secured with 2 screws so as we encounter these we replace them with 4 screw mounts when able.  This has worked well, but the process is continuing.  

      Our latest adventure (and here is where the fun begins) was when we discovered we had a soft spot in the kitchen flooring near the oven/counter/sink area.  Over time this area grew and I realized that the top laminate flooring was fine, but badly flexible due to damaged under flooring.  It began to grow also as time went by.  We (finally) made an appointment at a highly recommended RV Auto Marine Repair Fabricator in nearby Tacoma to get repaired, WesCraft RV.  www.wescraftrvrepair.com/ When I delivered the RV for work they provided me with an estimate I was not only a bit surprised at, but a cause for repair I was not expecting.  Apparently it is a common practice with the newer ultra lite RVs to build a single layer sub floor that is a 1" layer of Styrofoam surrounded by two 1/8" layers of plywood all glued together.  This is then topped with whatever laminate flooring they choose to install.  The framing underneath for this floor is NOT welded steel, but aluminum with very no cross supports.  At least it's not wood so there was no water damage.

 Highly rated, but didn't hold up

     The repair will consist of removing the upper super structure from the lower frame, separating all the electrical, heating, and water fittings as necessary.  Once they repair the sub flooring they will reinforce it with another layer of plywood and install several cross members in order to shore up the entire floor.  Then they put the entire RV back together, resealing any and all necessary fittings as well as the Polar Package insulation.  The parts requirements are minimal, but the labor comes at a mind boggling cost of $120/hour.  Still cheaper than a new RV, but doesn't really help the OMG OUCH PUCKER FACTOR when the wallet comes out.  Here is the caveat.  They fix an average of 3 of these floorings a month!   Hello Elkhart, Indiana!!!

      I am thoroughly disappointed with Forest River RVs as well as well as Rockwood as I held them in such high regard throughout my research before purchasing our first RV.  I do plan on contacting them regarding this on our return.  In all fairness, most RVs are purchased by families who will use them about 45 days yearly for about 5 years......maybe.  We have had our current rig since August 2015 and have accumulated approximately 45,000 miles while traveling/living in it 22 months.  We are not hard on our equipment, but it does make you wonder.  How much do I have to pay for the quality I was able to once expect?  The industry has adapted very well over the years when gas prices nearly crippled recreation, providing a product that would still allow folks to get out and travel/camp while maintaining reasonable costs.  I do believe that overall quality has suffered considerably in the long run.  
      I would be very remiss if I didn't mention the 'Pros'.  You can read the original blog at richhilts.blogspot.com/2015/09/   We love the floor plan, there is plenty of room for Barb and I as well as the furbabies in all of their lounging glory.  There is plenty of storage space in all the rooms and the improved roof system drains water quite efficiently.  It is completely outfitted for solar so that we only 'plug in' when we boondock.  We both LOVE the Queen/King size bed which even more comfortable than ours at home.  Finally, the 'wedge style' front is so much more aerodynamic resulting in improved gas mileage from 25%-60%, depending on driving conditions.
      WesCraft RV did high quality work and delivered our RV in 11 days and at the estimated price.  I'm not going into total $$ specifics, but suffice it to say it was cheaper than a new RV.  We love our rig and return to the road looking forward to many more adventures.  Joie de Vivre!  Notice I didn't ever use the phrase "Bite me" or "MOFO" once?  

"Once you're retired when life gives you lemons, seriously question it and then remind them it was YOUR hard earned dollars and their previous reputation that brought us together in the first place"

Rich Hilts

WiFi courtesy of Mom