I have a Brinkley Z 285. Its just my wife an I for the most part (kids are grown and living their own lives) so the floorpan works for us as we plan on doing some long multi month trips. We've used our trailer three times since we picked it up and I can say that it immediately felt like a home. As far as boondocking is concerned, 62 gallons fresh, 110 gallons grey, 40 gallons black. Seems like a lot to me plus it comes standard with a 370W solar panel. The one piece fiberglass residential shower was a big upgrade in my mind. Much less prone to leaks compared to the typical shower pan with glued up walls. We love the large capacity side by side fridge/freezer and the solar panel seems adequate to run the fridge and freezer during the day. It's not only the quality of the rig that makes a difference in the price. The included solar panel, the upgraded shower stall, the keyless entry, the one touch auto leveling, the stainless steel sinks, the upgraded plumbing fixtures, the better suspension and upgraded tires, the included TPMS, the included back up camera, the heavy duty ladder, two chill cube AC units (very quiet), two fireplaces, two TVs, mind boggling amount of storage,and the list goes on. Easily worth the extra $$$$. Only planned upgrades are to add a lithium battery, another solar panel, and a 3000 watt inverter to make boondocking more feasible.
We have a Brinkley G3500. The quality is by far better than anything else we had looked at. There have been minor issues with the unit , those issues were resolved with a phone call to Brinkley customer care. The warranty issues that I have had were a breeze. I give Brinkley an A+ in customer care
I love your objective no BS video reviews!! Thank you. This one in particular was very helpful because I am seriously considering the new Brinkley I 265 for a 1/2 ton pickup. I have looked at several Brinkley models over the last several months and am truly impressed with the quality. It was good to hear from you, the expert that these are indeed quality units. There are so many inferior rigs out there that are really poorly built. If I decide on buying a travel trailer, Brinkly will be the brand for me.
We’re a family of 6 full-timing in our Brinkley Model G 3950 and we could not be happier with the quality and value of our rig!! Brinkley really creates an amazing customer experience.
We looked at a GD imagine 315RDS vs the 285. We received a cash price with a 20% discount on the Brinkley and a good discount less $7000 because we were paying cash. So in the end, the Brinkley with a higher MSRP than the GD, the cash discounts made the Brinkley only a $2k difference. We have no complaints about the Brinkley and everyone has been great at the dealer and manufacture. Great review and thank you for the piece of mind for us in choosing a Brinkley.
We just purchased our Brinkley Z Air 285 and are very happy so far. My wife and I use a travel trailer for work and will go anywhere from 4 to 12 weeks across the country on all kinds of roads. We looked at Grand Design and Alliance as two brands we were comparing and the Brinkley is above and beyond the quality of the others. And, as Brinkley owners know, it is a company that actually listens to its owners and opens itself up to constructive criticism. Plus, they just look cool. LOL Would buy another Brinkley in a heartbeat.
We were camping in Vermont in July of 2024 and met a gentleman that was in the process of trading his Airstream for a Brinkly! The reasons were 1/2 floor plans and 1/2 quality. He was on his 3rd Airstream and had an amazing amount of reliability issues with the electrical systems and plumbing. As he looked deeper into some of these failures they found absolutely terrible quality with wire management and hose & fitting quality. Plastic fittings in a $180,000.00 RV is one of the most ridiculous examples of being cheap! I told my wife that RV manufacturers should have option packages like cars do. Want better electrical components? Want all brass plumbing connections? Struts to hold cabinet doors open? I think most people would opt for some upgrades especially for plumbing. Just a thought. Good content by the way!
Been a Jayco Eagle owner for 16 yrs (5th wheel)..very minor problems during this time..any issues were addressed by 2yr warranty(lifting linoleum). Agree the caulking on the countertops need regular maintenence to protect from swelling...but overall the ownership experience has been good and I found the company does stand behind their product...recent video on Liz Amazing confirms this too...we are now in market for a retirement 5th wheel and Jayco is still one of our final 4 with Montana Alliance,Brinkley..but from a value point Jayco wins.. and I would just replace that hot water line immediatley and move on..the rest of the rv has good plumbing....thx for yr video and great reviews..love the channel...
Liz Amazing video seems to show Jayco only stands behind the product when it has a negative PR impact. We were looking at a Jayco Pinnacle and a Brinkley Z3100 and the dealer told us the Jayco warranty isn't worth the paper it's written on. I'm glad your experience is different.
My Sandpiper 402FK destination trailer used bad plumbing under the kitchen sink. I didn't know the RV industries "dirty little secret" until I started watching your videos. My hot water lines started leaking within 2 years and have been replaced already. I'm going to replace the cold water lines either this fall or in the spring before we open it up for the season. Thanks for your honest reviews as well as the information you share.
We have a Z3110 traveled 5000 miles out west. Drove the million dollar highway, Nevada's 110 degrees heat(ac kept up)and the only issue we had was the shower doors came loose. Easy fix . Thanks for the great videos on Jakob.
@undercoverrvtech so would you take the chance and pay that much more for the Brinkley. Interested to know?? Also , so do you go on sites and inspect new RV’s , and what does that cost. We are in S.C. ,, looking to seriously purchase a Z2900. Thanks Jacob !
Enjoy your channel. The scoring IMO needs some tweaks. For example scoring both equal for cabinets is not fair based on materials used alone. Brinkley should clearly be scored higher due to the dove tail joints. I'd say the same about the slide outs. Jayco deserves a lower score due to the extra maintenance requirement. As far as this specific video, when considering if price difference is worth it are the features offered on one model vs the other. Brinkleys offer many features the Jayco does not. It's like comparing a mid level trim truck to a luxury truck. We know when buying vehicles the loaded trim levels cost a lot more. The buyer has to decide if those features are worth the money. Lastly is how they are built that you cannot see and not something you cover in your buying guide. Brinkleys use wiring harnesses for example. You won't find the tangled mess of wires in the underbelly that you'd see on the Jayco. Overall Brinkley tries to solve for many of the most common warranty claims other manufacturers experience up front when they build them to reduce their own warranty claims & increase customer satisfaction.
So Camping lifestyle should not be understimated. I have the Brinkley ZAir 310 and do love it. It is head and shoulders above our prior units. I will stay- Boondocking in this unit will be a bit more challenging and require meticulous water management. It takes a half gallon to get hot at the sink. I will be trying to turn hot on low and see if it helps. The shower is fabulous- much more in gear for full hook ups. I do think the extra conservation techniques will be worth it for what Brinkley brings to the table its a learning curve and a trade off.
I actually have a Z Air 310 on order from Brinkley. Sure it's more money. Solid surface countertops, fit and finish, shocks., correct plumbing, excellent customer service have a value.To add those after the fact is about 12-15 thousand (I have done it on a Grand Delusion) Here is where the rubber meets the road for me. I was at the Hershey show and the actual owners of the company staffed the booth. I asked one a random question about a hitch set up. He called the other owner who took the rig out to test camp it for the answer. The guys was not defensive and was critiquing the trailer with me and offering insight on why they did what they did. That to me speaks volumes. While I love the tankless water heater as a boondocker it is not ideal but easier to work around than poor quality. Thanks for the honest video's stay nit-picky!
Soon as I got my new Rockwood Mini Lite home I took out all the cheap outlets and replaced them with home outlets after I installed blue outlet electrial boxes. I then removed all the pinch fittings on the water lines replacing them with compression rings.
Don’t have an Eagle but I think it speaks to the brand, I’ve got a ‘23 Jayco Jay Feather 25RB. So far I’ve upgraded to a Morryde SRE3000 suspension system and sumosprings for the axles. Towed all along the rough roads of the northeast and Midwest. Happy to report the trailer is still holding up great with nothing breaking. I will add the caulking issue around the kitchen sink is carried over from the eagle and does need touching up from time to time.
Might be worth it to switch tracks and find an older used rv and then size it up to the comparable model of today to show new rv'ers any upgrades or mostly the decline of construction, cabinets, plumbing etc... I had a 2004 jayco Eagle 291rlts fifthwheel, and that thing was a tank that I never had any major problems with. I have to shake my head when I go on a lot now to see these Luan boxes laced with mdf and thermofoil and all the other issues. I just think it would be cool to see your take on the old vs new.
I am happy Brinkley has corrected the plumbing. Now the only issue I have with Brinkley is the lack of a stove top vent. Wanting to vent steam and cooking odours seems obvious to me (and the ceiling vent is not sufficient).
May I please ask What Brinkley do you have, we are considering getting the Z2900 , but I also have heard about the no vent above stove. I will be cooking and That upsets me. Also what about a PLASTIC SINK?? Are they really only plastic?? Thanks.
Thanks for the request! I don’t have any review videos of this out yet, but there are 4 grades of that brand in my database from myself and other undercover shoppers. If you want to view the database and learn to assess the quality of any RV like I do in my reviews, you can take my RV shopping course and use my app to grade it yourself - undercoverrvshopper.com/rv-shopping-course/
I also offer consulting where I get on a call with you and we can talk through your budget, camping goals and I can review any RV listings you’re considering - undercoverrvshopper.com/book-a-consultation/
You should have read the print on the Jayco flex tubing. Having been in both the RV industry and construction I can tell you that not all flex tubing is either hot or cold and the use of a red stripe is not universal. The print is what matters. Also there are 2 different kinds of vinyl flex tubing one of which is designed to use PEX fittings and clamps. FYI most new houses use plastic PEX fittings even when buried in a wall so if they were so bad we would have tens of thousands of homes with water running out of them. As for the thermafoil....it is fine if maintained but even at the price of the Eagle Jayco should have solid surface counters. Don't get me wrong I am a huge fan of Brinkley, have toured the factory and was very impressed but I also would not buy one because I don't feel their prices are justified. Let's see how long it takes for Brinkley to sell out for a mega profit just like Heartland and Grand Design did.
Thank you so much i was on the fence between a jayco eagle rdok and a brinkley fussing over a 20k price difference. 20k is worth the piece of mind for good plumbing. I cant believe jayco still cant get plumbing right in 2024 shame on them.
Brinkley is definitely worth it in my opinion. I don't have experience with their customer service, but I've heard everyone has had a good experience with them.
Thanks for the request! I don’t have a comparison video, but here is a different review video from the Northwood brand - studio.ua-cam.com/users/videoutJsuKdJKlY/edit
There are currently 3 grades of that RV brand in my database from myself and other undercover shoppers. If you want to view the database and learn to assess the quality of any RV like I do in my reviews, you can take my RV shopping course and use my app to grade it yourself - undercoverrvshopper.com/rv-shopping-course/
I also offer consulting where I get on a call with you and we can talk through your budget, camping goals and I can review any RV listings you’re considering - undercoverrvshopper.com/book-a-consultation/
Yes, thank you. I really thought I was going with Jayco. The past few months I've seen disappointing information about this industry. Thank you for sharing your thoughts.
So glad you reviewed these! the Brinkley suits the lifestyle for us ... still early days making a decision, but happy to see the scoring on both of these. and yes, we think the Brinkley is worth the extra $$
I recently moved from a Rockwood Mini Lite to the Brinkley Z Air 285, and they are comparable in the amount of problems out the door and customer service. My reason for changing was I wanted a larger camper. My reason for choosing Brinkley over another Rockwood or Alliance (comparable floorplans and service reputation) was the foundation that Brinkley starts with. Most of their plumbing fittings are not only the correct connections, but brass instead of plastic. They are doing something to control the spaghetti mess that most manufacturers call wiring by using pre-assembled harnesses with labeled and color coded wires. Their sealant process appears to be superior to what the industry standard is, but only time will tell for sure. The fact that they are using Eternabond tape on all of the roof and wall connections and that none of the sealant is exposed to the sun speaks to how long it should last. Previous comments on Brinkley stating something is "industry standard" does not apply to their plumbing, wiring, or sealing of the unit, but it does to virtually everything else. But the bones of the Brinkley seem to me to be head and shoulders above the rest, and that is why I chose them. Is it worth $30,000? I doubt it, but if you can afford it, get the one that should give you the best bang for your buck.
He has a video out there on an AF 27.5. It's a few years old now. I recall that his only issue with the plumbing was the use of one short section of flex tubing at the water pump. He said that would be easy to change. I agree with you. I'd like to see more reviews of Northwood products like the AF and the more afordable Fox Mountain.
Thanks for pointing out the different color coding on hoses. I have a 2021 Jayco fifthwheel and will check that right away. I prefer the Schwintec to a cable driven slide. I'm not sold on spending the extra 30K. I'd change the plumbing on those locations you indicated. Great video again and thank you.
We have a 2022 Jayco North point 310. We have had several dozen issues over 2 years. Warranty covered all the repairs but what a time consuming pain in the rear!! Looking to buy a 2025 Brinkley 5th wheel hands down. As a retired electrician, I do enjoy your videos. Great work👍
I have a Brinkley Z-285. Other than one minor issue, the bathroom facet, I have had no issues. Brinkley customer service sent me a new facet overnight and issue solved. The only thing I think they could do better is design a battery compartment that can hold 2 group 31 batteries. Currently they only support 2 group 27 batteries, and that little tidbit of information is not published anywhere, and the dealers certainly don't know and won't tell you. As far as suspensions go., no towable on the market has a B+ rated suspension. For these higher end coaches, the manufacturers should offer as an option the MORRyde Independent suspensions system or IS for short. This is the only suspension on the market that will truly minimize the seismic road noise from being transmitted into the coach, which is the #1 cause, next to water, that will damage the unit. Do not let a dealer install this option. It is not cheap, and dealers don't care about the quality of their work, only the sale. Good video. You somewhat confirmed my research before I bought a month ago.
hey Jacob, love your channel man! As A Rv Sales man i know that the brinkley is built better and higher quality but if you look at the price point and value in each unit the Jayco is really high quality for its price point. like the saying you get what you pay for lol. overall the Jayco does give you a good warranty and there just as good of quality as the Brinkley. {my opinion} keep up the great work.
I've been looking for someone like you to learn how to do a smart buy of an RV for quality in the next year or so. I'll be purchasing your course before too long for my winter time learning sessions! Thanks for providing your expertise.
Wonderfully made video! I’ve used your knowledge to help some family and friends get into an RV with me feeling a little safer what they can’t see. I was a keystone and NuCamp saleswoman two years ago. I’m a hairstylist now and I’m still selling them, I just take them shopping now lol. Your videos really help me, thank you so much for creating these videos and these UA-cam shorts.
Thanks for the request! I don’t have any review videos of this out yet, but there are 17 grades of that brand in my database from myself and other undercover shoppers. If you want to view the database and learn to assess the quality of any RV like I do in my reviews, you can take my RV shopping course and use my app to grade it yourself - undercoverrvshopper.com/rv-shopping-course/
I also offer consulting where I get on a call with you and we can talk through your budget, camping goals and I can review any RV listings you’re considering - undercoverrvshopper.com/book-a-consultation/
Brinkley and Alliance are, so far, on the top of our list as we are just beginning our research to to go fulltime (traveling, not stationary) in the next few years. So far, all research has been done online. We will be attending the Floriday RV Show this January. Can you elaborate on why you mentioned you would not recommend either of these models for boondocking? We hope to do a lot of boondocking throughout our journey. Thanks so much!
Thanks for this video. I don’t plan on buying a travel trailer cause I want a motorhome to tow my jeep around. But subscribed and will be searching your videos to motor home review.
I finally got to tour a Brinkley Z3100 in person. The attention to detail is apparent but the trailer just felt like it had no soul. The interior is bland and uninspiring. The exterior is 1/3 giant slab black decals that I can see being a problem later. The lack of interior moulding may be a catchy sales pitch but to me it just looks like they cheaped out. I’ll be watching as the brand evolves but they need to hire an interior designer.
Jacob, I know I shouldn’t have to, but need to get in and inspect all my plumbing, and go ahead and fix it before it becomes a problem. I’m very frustrated these companies cut corners in something so serious. Since you have replaced all these fittings, what is an approximate cost of the materials to re-plumb a Jayco 263 RBS? To anyone wanting to buy a camper, I recommend your course, especially and hands down, if they are not getting an inspection. We love our Jayco and in 2023, it would have been very hard finding a camper with perfect plumbing. I’m hoping it won’t be too hard to get to and fix everything inside the camper. Not planning on cutting into my underbelly to check that out? At least if it leaks there, may not do too much damage, let’s hope. QUESTION; How much would it cost for them to put in the right fittings in materials? I know it would slow production down, but imagine if Jayco had A grad plumbing, solid surface counters? No chance anyone is going to solid wood frames too, I’m sure that would eat into the profits, lol? In Jayco’s defense, the few minor issues I’ve had, they were Great at approving the repairs, sending parts, etc. My local dealer in Richmond, A&L rv was fast on getting me taken care of. They replaced my slide seal in a couple days. I’m very fortunate to have a great dealer near me that has the same people in the service department that were at the old dealership that was bought out. Honestly, that should be a very important factor in where to purchase a camper. Maybe you can do a video on what questions to ask the dealer/service department on turn around time for repairs.
Thanks so much for watching and commenting! Here is my playlist on the plumbing issue and fixes - ua-cam.com/play/PLRhkJB7TNcSn2U5sDy5ic2iWr8kFxxd_N.html - this should answer a lot of your questions and be helpful
Customer service is a awesome feature especially in the RV world. If Brinkley is as good as I have heard, yes, it is worth the extra money. Also after looking at many of your videos you don’t have many As. Good video.
Thank you Jacob for all your excellent insights for all things RV My question is regarding the Brinkley model Z 2900 fifth wheel with the sink in the slide ? I know your feelings on that floor plan but given Brinkley's changes in how they plumb their RV's do you consider that to be a deal breaker ?
We just bought a grand design momentum 395 ms toy hauler from camping world in Nashville , a 2023, great shape, no evidence of frame breaking,decided to sell our 2015 jayco super C, thank you for your reply,fyi: this is the 6th unit we bought from camping world and have been treated great,john yost
I’d be interested in other things like the overall construction and materials of the camper itself. Otherwise, I can replace a couple plumbing lines and throw a solid surface counter top in a Jayco for $1,000 and save the extra 29,000 over the Brinkley.
we have been looking at the Brinkley as well - all the owners we've talked with (in the field) have nothing but good things to say. Once you've bought a camper, i don't think you can look at 30k "savings" when you have a hidden leak somewhere - or hidden potential issue. We boondook some (3-4 days at a time) and would like some feedback on the on-demand hot water heater. I'm well aware that a 12v fridge will use battery power faster than a propane fridge - but water heater? thanks for the video
Had quite a few plumbing issues up front with my 2022 Jayco 267BHSW, few other odds and ends with fitment and trim - but I have taken it on some rough forest service roads with the Baja package and Jayco covered everything on warranty and never had an issue. I primarily think it has to do with the dealer and service department being outstanding and making the effort to get the claims pushed through too. I don’t know that I’d buy another Jayco but I would definitely go through the dealer - I think just like cars that’s almost more important than the brand.
I noticed on a friend's brand new jayco northpoint that flexible tube coming into the the bathroom toliet with a splice then pex going to the foot pedal
Your the best man... i have and continue to fast track my learning becauase of you... i'm going to RV show in toronto to look at the brinkley ...as a past general contractor there is no other RV on the market i've found that comes close to the Brinkley.... the others better get their shit together or they are going to be seeing sales plummet. God Bless keep up the great work and i LOVE your emails you send out they are amazing much respect!
No experience with Brinkley, but can identify with the Jayco issues. Plumbing leaks due to the exact same hot water tank compression fittings and use of cold water tubing was encountered on a 264BH. Also had bad compression fitting on hot water bath sink fitting our newer 26RL which they fixed by going through underbelly to replace the whole line resulting in an ugly taped patch. Don’t get me started on bad thermafoil which is pulling loose from day one on the kitchen countertop 🙄
@@CJBronco2 don't know enough to make an honest comparison. I know GD has had some legal issues regarding frame flex - failure claims. GD uses routinely produced Lippert frames. Jayco also uses Lippert but specifies custom design specs and have had no frame issues. Jayco also has industry best 2+3 warranty, 2 yr full RV & 3 yr structural. Again, have been pleased with fit & finish, customer service AFTER the sale (rare), & overall build quality. Bottomline, there is no perfect RV. Just find one thats perfect for you & your family.
@@REL3712 Thats good to know... Ty for responding.. I do know that the Jayco I'm looking (19MRK) uses the BAL frame by Norco... even tho the frame flex was with the 5th wheels, I'm turned off to Lippert and won't buy anything with a lippert frame... Jayco - Plywood, Azdel, PVC vs GD OSB, Luhah, TPO but GDs seem to cost more... I'll keep digging but I do Ty for your input
There are currently 4 grades of that RV brand in my database from myself and other undercover shoppers. If you want to view the database and learn to assess the quality of any RV like I do in my reviews, you can take my RV shopping course and use my app to grade it yourself - undercoverrvshopper.com/rv-shopping-course/
I also offer consulting where I get on a call with you and we can talk through your budget, camping goals and I can review any RV listings you’re considering - undercoverrvshopper.com/book-a-consultation/
Thanks for the request! I don’t have any review videos of this out yet, but there are 6 grades of that brand in my database from myself and other undercover shoppers. If you want to view the database and learn to assess the quality of any RV like I do in my reviews, you can take my RV shopping course and use my app to grade it yourself - undercoverrvshopper.com/rv-shopping-course/
I also offer consulting where I get on a call with you and we can talk through your budget, camping goals and I can review any RV listings you’re considering - undercoverrvshopper.com/book-a-consultation/
Thanks for the request! I don’t have a review of that RV, but here is a different review video from that brand - studio.ua-cam.com/users/videowU75f12ksYs/edit
There are currently 35 grades of that RV brand in my database from myself and other undercover shoppers. If you want to view the database and learn to assess the quality of any RV like I do in my reviews, you can take my RV shopping course and use my app to grade it yourself - undercoverrvshopper.com/rv-shopping-course/
I also offer consulting where I get on a call with you and we can talk through your budget, camping goals and I can review any RV listings you’re considering - undercoverrvshopper.com/book-a-consultation/
Bought our z2900 in July and been in shop for last 2 months. Fridge failed twice, bathroom fan failed, front a/c failed, brakes dragging, miscellaneous pieces falling off. Understand the failed components not of Brinkley manufacture, but been waiting exactly 30 days and still no warranty approval from factory. Extended warranty was a waste of money, because we can’t even get new warranty work done….. dealer has trailer and won’t respond to questions about when we can expected these issues to be resolved.
Since Brinkley has come out with a 5th wheel at 30’ we are’t considering anything else. We went to the Hershey RV show and didn’t know about the 30’ 5th wheel so we didn’t stop at the Brinkley display. We won’t make that mistake next year!!!
I also offer consulting where I get on a call with you and we can talk through your budget, camping goals and I can review any RV listings you’re considering - undercoverrvshopper.com/book-a-consultation/
I like 2 newer companies.. really like the encore rog 12bh and like the layout of the modern buggy bb14. Although there are two completely different styles of campers my intuition is telling me to stay away from the bb14. Do you have any insight on these 2 brands?
This is super interesting to us as we navigate the RV landscape in prep for retirement. Like everyone else here, we find a mismatch between the quality vs. price of new RVs. As Warren Buffet states, "Price is what you pay, value is what you get." and I find that in general, the value is lacking in new RVs. It does seem that Brinkley is changing that, thankfully. Another brand we've been interested in is Intech, particularly the Aucta series. Would love if you could do an assessment of these as it would seem that they've got a good story price/value wise based on their materials. Thank you for the service you provide and the transparency that it brings to this frustrating industry.
Thanks for the request! I don’t have any review videos of this out yet, but there are 4 grades of that brand in my database from myself and another undercover shopper. If you want to view the database and learn to assess the quality of any RV like I do in my reviews, you can take my RV shopping course and use my app to grade it yourself - undercoverrvshopper.com/rv-shopping-course/
I also offer consulting where I get on a call with you and we can talk through your budget, camping goals and I can review any RV listings you’re considering - undercoverrvshopper.com/book-a-consultation/
There are currently 20 grades of that RV brand in my database from myself and other undercover shoppers. If you want to view the database and learn to assess the quality of any RV like I do in my reviews, you can take my RV shopping course and use my app to grade it yourself - undercoverrvshopper.com/rv-shopping-course/
I also offer consulting where I get on a call with you and we can talk through your budget, camping goals and I can review any RV listings you’re considering - undercoverrvshopper.com/book-a-consultation/
There are currently 3 grades of that RV brand in my database from myself. If you want to view the database and learn to assess the quality of any RV like I do in my reviews, you can take my RV shopping course and use my app to grade it yourself - undercoverrvshopper.com/rv-shopping-course/
I also offer consulting where I get on a call with you and we can talk through your budget, camping goals and I can review any RV listings you’re considering - undercoverrvshopper.com/book-a-consultation/
Great! I offer consulting where I get on a call with you and we can talk through your budget, camping goals and I can review any RV listings you’re considering - undercoverrvshopper.com/book-a-consultation/
#5 (That's right, you left off the last important point to consider!) Resale value. Cheaper brands, or cheaper trims, may be harder to sell and will depreciate more quickly. Premium brands may be easier to sell and will depreciate less. That $30K you save up front may dwindle down to nothing come resale/trade-in time.
We just bought a 24 Jayco White Hawk (last year of the White Hawks) and I have found some bad plumbing which I will keep an eye on. Fit a finish is not great and I have had it in for warranty work for closet doors and exterior doors. We took a few short trips to work out the bugs you inevitably encounter with a new trailer (sad statement). We have an excellent dealer where I live so that helps and is a reason I purchased the Jayco. It seems to me their quality really declined after Thor bought them out in 2017 because previous Jayco’s were much better in my opinion based on the ones I owned. No way I would pay $30K extra for the Brinkley.
I have a Furrion 10 cu ft fridge, made by Everchill. Both companies are now owned by Lippert. It quit working after 3 years of constant use. I called the Lippert support number. They had me check power in and power out from the board. No power out. I was told the fridge is not repairable. I’m not buying another Everchill/Furrion/Lippert fridge or an RV with this brand installed.
Currently own a Jayco and sad to say I knew Brinkley would come on top in this video. I knew you would find bad plumbing but was hoping they spent the time to put solid surface countertops in it being there high end travel trailer. I mean it literally has the same counter style as my 21 SLX 224bh stick and tin trailer! But for me considering I could replace the bad plumbing easy and cheap I say it’s not really worth the extra 30k for me though that’s just my opinion. Do you happen to know what type of solid surface counter the rv industry is using for price comparisons?
We are 3 weeks into owning a Brinkley and we are over it. It’s all a smoke show. Can’t give it away for 1/3 less than we paid and we got it 20% off. They are marginally better than the market.
I’m surprised given the huge difference in roof sealants used and the resulting maintenance requirements that go with them you rated both roofs the same.
I call Jayco’s … Junko’s. Long story short : I had a StarCraft 230MLD that, start to finish, was a piece of garbage (I’m talking MAJOR structural issues). Jayco refused to take care of me unless I signed a document saying I wouldn’t sue them. I would NEVER buy a Thor product because of it. The Brinkley is off the list because I hate the frameless windows. So…. next… lol.
I think the most important aspects of an RV you didn't cover: THE FRAME and structure. These are items that cannot be repaired easily or inexpensively. Look at the issues of the GD. Also look at the number of recalls. I would appreciate it if you compared the frame material, size, welding, hangers, cross members (i.e the Arctic Fox uses I-Beams on cross members not light weight steel with holes or simply a wire frame). What about the roof truss design and thickness, side wall insulation, floor material. The items you show are rather superficial. These items can't be repaired but they are the longevity of an RV.
Brinkley is better made but $30,000? Hard to know what the price of superior components is. I know that Jayco has a reputation for serious manufacturing defects and giving disappointed owners a terrible run-around. I wouldn’t buy a Jayco for that reason only.
I have to disagree with your 12v refrigerators; I've had my furrion 12v, for almost 2 years with no problems in the winter of Illinois, no issues, not only that but it much more efficient, ice cold, no propane draw, yea.
Who is making a fifth wheel frame that won’t break? I can’t think of the special name that we call that now but they may need to have fifth wheel frames that don’t twist or fail somebody does
Northwood RV (Arctic Fox and Fox Mountain). In-house made frames using much thicker steel. Be prepared though, an Arctic Fox weighs a couple of thousand pounds more than the competition. This is due to the frame and the 2" thick walls.
There are currently 35 grades of that RV brand in my database from myself and other undercover shoppers. If you want to view the database and learn to assess the quality of any RV like I do in my reviews, you can take my RV shopping course and use my app to grade it yourself - undercoverrvshopper.com/rv-shopping-course/
I also offer consulting where I get on a call with you and we can talk through your budget, camping goals and I can review any RV listings you’re considering - undercoverrvshopper.com/book-a-consultation/
You forget one major aspect of value, perhaps the most important…customer service…watch Liz Amazing , her station advocates for the customer..Jayco is a nightmare..
Lumber core cabinetry still sucks!. Why can't the RV industry come out with something that doesn't swell when water contacts it? Even if only used at bottom of every cabinet that touches the floor. If they are going to use a veneer wrap anyway, why not a composite material along all bottom of cabinets.
Brinkley Customer Care has been amazing! I had a few issues pop up and Brinkley sent a mobile tech out immediately to fix. I would give Brinkley an A+. I had a GD prior to the Brinkley and their customer service was horrendous.
Brinkley is so hit or miss. The horror stories are profound and undeniable. And people have recordings so this is not disputed. When you buy a Brinkley, you go back for Warranty work week one and they start using the phrase industry standard. Nothing is better. Nothing is different.
Thanks for the request! I don’t have any review videos of this out yet, but there are 2 grades of that brand in my database from myself and other undercover shoppers. If you want to view the database and learn to assess the quality of any RV like I do in my reviews, you can take my RV shopping course and use my app to grade it yourself - undercoverrvshopper.com/rv-shopping-course/
I also offer consulting where I get on a call with you and we can talk through your budget, camping goals and I can review any RV listings you’re considering - undercoverrvshopper.com/book-a-consultation/
I have a Brinkley Z 285. Its just my wife an I for the most part (kids are grown and living their own lives) so the floorpan works for us as we plan on doing some long multi month trips. We've used our trailer three times since we picked it up and I can say that it immediately felt like a home. As far as boondocking is concerned, 62 gallons fresh, 110 gallons grey, 40 gallons black. Seems like a lot to me plus it comes standard with a 370W solar panel. The one piece fiberglass residential shower was a big upgrade in my mind. Much less prone to leaks compared to the typical shower pan with glued up walls. We love the large capacity side by side fridge/freezer and the solar panel seems adequate to run the fridge and freezer during the day. It's not only the quality of the rig that makes a difference in the price. The included solar panel, the upgraded shower stall, the keyless entry, the one touch auto leveling, the stainless steel sinks, the upgraded plumbing fixtures, the better suspension and upgraded tires, the included TPMS, the included back up camera, the heavy duty ladder, two chill cube AC units (very quiet), two fireplaces, two TVs, mind boggling amount of storage,and the list goes on. Easily worth the extra $$$$. Only planned upgrades are to add a lithium battery, another solar panel, and a 3000 watt inverter to make boondocking more feasible.
We’ve been full timers in our Brinkley for 15 months with minimal issues. Brinkley customer service is second to none and would purchase one again.
I appreciate the comment!
As others have mentioned, I would love for you to do a comparison of Brinkley and Outdoors RV/Nash/Arctic Fox.
We have a Brinkley G3500. The quality is by far better than anything else we had looked at. There have been minor issues with the unit , those issues were resolved with a phone call to Brinkley customer care.
The warranty issues that I have had were a breeze. I give Brinkley an A+ in customer care
That's great! Thanks for commenting
I love your objective no BS video reviews!! Thank you. This one in particular was very helpful because I am seriously considering the new Brinkley I 265 for a 1/2 ton pickup. I have looked at several Brinkley models over the last several months and am truly impressed with the quality. It was good to hear from you, the expert that these are indeed quality units. There are so many inferior rigs out there that are really poorly built. If I decide on buying a travel trailer, Brinkly will be the brand for me.
We’re a family of 6 full-timing in our Brinkley Model G 3950 and we could not be happier with the quality and value of our rig!! Brinkley really creates an amazing customer experience.
how have the rv parks been re/length. .accepting, easy or difficult getting in everywhere you want to go or are you part of an RV park club?
Can you do an undercover video on Northwood and Outdoors RV please.
We looked at a GD imagine 315RDS vs the 285. We received a cash price with a 20% discount on the Brinkley and a good discount less $7000 because we were paying cash. So in the end, the Brinkley with a higher MSRP than the GD, the cash discounts made the Brinkley only a $2k difference. We have no complaints about the Brinkley and everyone has been great at the dealer and manufacture. Great review and thank you for the piece of mind for us in choosing a Brinkley.
I appreciate you commenting!
We just purchased our Brinkley Z Air 285 and are very happy so far. My wife and I use a travel trailer for work and will go anywhere from 4 to 12 weeks across the country on all kinds of roads.
We looked at Grand Design and Alliance as two brands we were comparing and the Brinkley is above and beyond the quality of the others. And, as Brinkley owners know, it is a company that actually listens to its owners and opens itself up to constructive criticism. Plus, they just look cool. LOL
Would buy another Brinkley in a heartbeat.
We were camping in Vermont in July of 2024 and met a gentleman that was in the process of trading his Airstream for a Brinkly! The reasons were 1/2 floor plans and 1/2 quality. He was on his 3rd Airstream and had an amazing amount of reliability issues with the electrical systems and plumbing. As he looked deeper into some of these failures they found absolutely terrible quality with wire management and hose & fitting quality. Plastic fittings in a $180,000.00 RV is one of the most ridiculous examples of being cheap! I told my wife that RV manufacturers should have option packages like cars do. Want better electrical components? Want all brass plumbing connections? Struts to hold cabinet doors open? I think most people would opt for some upgrades especially for plumbing. Just a thought. Good content by the way!
Thanks for watching and commenting!
To be fair, the comparable Jayco would be a Pinnacle series, not an eagle.
Been a Jayco Eagle owner for 16 yrs (5th wheel)..very minor problems during this time..any issues were addressed by 2yr warranty(lifting linoleum). Agree the caulking on the countertops need regular maintenence to protect from swelling...but overall the ownership experience has been good and I found the company does stand behind their product...recent video on Liz Amazing confirms this too...we are now in market for a retirement 5th wheel and Jayco is still one of our final 4 with Montana Alliance,Brinkley..but from a value point Jayco wins.. and I would just replace that hot water line immediatley and move on..the rest of the rv has good plumbing....thx for yr video and great reviews..love the channel...
Liz Amazing video seems to show Jayco only stands behind the product when it has a negative PR impact.
We were looking at a Jayco Pinnacle and a Brinkley Z3100 and the dealer told us the Jayco warranty isn't worth the paper it's written on. I'm glad your experience is different.
Thanks for your input!
My Sandpiper 402FK destination trailer used bad plumbing under the kitchen sink. I didn't know the RV industries "dirty little secret" until I started watching your videos. My hot water lines started leaking within 2 years and have been replaced already. I'm going to replace the cold water lines either this fall or in the spring before we open it up for the season. Thanks for your honest reviews as well as the information you share.
Thanks for watching! Glad the video was helpful!
We have a Z3110 traveled 5000 miles out west. Drove the million dollar highway, Nevada's 110 degrees heat(ac kept up)and the only issue we had was the shower doors came loose. Easy fix . Thanks for the great videos on Jakob.
Thanks for watching! Glad the video was helpful!
@undercoverrvtech so would you take the chance and pay that much more for the Brinkley. Interested to know?? Also , so do you go on sites and inspect new RV’s , and what does that cost. We are in S.C. ,, looking to seriously purchase a Z2900. Thanks Jacob !
Enjoy your channel. The scoring IMO needs some tweaks. For example scoring both equal for cabinets is not fair based on materials used alone. Brinkley should clearly be scored higher due to the dove tail joints. I'd say the same about the slide outs. Jayco deserves a lower score due to the extra maintenance requirement. As far as this specific video, when considering if price difference is worth it are the features offered on one model vs the other. Brinkleys offer many features the Jayco does not. It's like comparing a mid level trim truck to a luxury truck. We know when buying vehicles the loaded trim levels cost a lot more. The buyer has to decide if those features are worth the money. Lastly is how they are built that you cannot see and not something you cover in your buying guide. Brinkleys use wiring harnesses for example. You won't find the tangled mess of wires in the underbelly that you'd see on the Jayco. Overall Brinkley tries to solve for many of the most common warranty claims other manufacturers experience up front when they build them to reduce their own warranty claims & increase customer satisfaction.
So Camping lifestyle should not be understimated. I have the Brinkley ZAir 310 and do love it. It is head and shoulders above our prior units.
I will stay- Boondocking in this unit will be a bit more challenging and require meticulous water management. It takes a half gallon to get hot at the sink. I will be trying to turn hot on low and see if it helps. The shower is fabulous- much more in gear for full hook ups.
I do think the extra conservation techniques will be worth it for what Brinkley brings to the table its a learning curve and a trade off.
I actually have a Z Air 310 on order from Brinkley. Sure it's more money. Solid surface countertops, fit and finish, shocks., correct plumbing, excellent customer service have a value.To add those after the fact is about 12-15 thousand (I have done it on a Grand Delusion)
Here is where the rubber meets the road for me. I was at the Hershey show and the actual owners of the company staffed the booth. I asked one a random question about a hitch set up. He called the other owner who took the rig out to test camp it for the answer. The guys was not defensive and was critiquing the trailer with me and offering insight on why they did what they did. That to me speaks volumes.
While I love the tankless water heater as a boondocker it is not ideal but easier to work around than poor quality.
Thanks for the honest video's stay nit-picky!
If you were a member of the owners groups you would know this ain’t true
Feel free to educate- can’t be a member until I take possession
Feel free to educate- can’t be a member until I take possession
Thanks for watching!
Curious what customer service you’ve had to encounter without owning one?
Soon as I got my new Rockwood Mini Lite home I took out all the cheap outlets and replaced them with home outlets after I installed blue outlet electrial boxes. I then removed all the pinch fittings on the water lines replacing them with compression rings.
Don’t have an Eagle but I think it speaks to the brand, I’ve got a ‘23 Jayco Jay Feather 25RB. So far I’ve upgraded to a Morryde SRE3000 suspension system and sumosprings for the axles. Towed all along the rough roads of the northeast and Midwest. Happy to report the trailer is still holding up great with nothing breaking. I will add the caulking issue around the kitchen sink is carried over from the eagle and does need touching up from time to time.
I appreciate you weighing in!
Might be worth it to switch tracks and find an older used rv and then size it up to the comparable model of today to show new rv'ers any upgrades or mostly the decline of construction, cabinets, plumbing etc... I had a 2004 jayco Eagle 291rlts fifthwheel, and that thing was a tank that I never had any major problems with. I have to shake my head when I go on a lot now to see these Luan boxes laced with mdf and thermofoil and all the other issues.
I just think it would be cool to see your take on the old vs new.
I am happy Brinkley has corrected the plumbing. Now the only issue I have with Brinkley is the lack of a stove top vent. Wanting to vent steam and cooking odours seems obvious to me (and the ceiling vent is not sufficient).
May I please ask What Brinkley do you have, we are considering getting the Z2900 , but I also have heard about the no vent above stove. I will be cooking and That upsets me. Also what about a PLASTIC SINK?? Are they really only plastic?? Thanks.
@@geminifox475wall vents are grease traps and fire hazard
Please review INTECH OVR Navigater
Thanks for the request! I don’t have any review videos of this out yet, but there are 4 grades of that brand in my database from myself and other undercover shoppers. If you want to view the database and learn to assess the quality of any RV like I do in my reviews, you can take my RV shopping course and use my app to grade it yourself - undercoverrvshopper.com/rv-shopping-course/
I also offer consulting where I get on a call with you and we can talk through your budget, camping goals and I can review any RV listings you’re considering - undercoverrvshopper.com/book-a-consultation/
You should have read the print on the Jayco flex tubing. Having been in both the RV industry and construction I can tell you that not all flex tubing is either hot or cold and the use of a red stripe is not universal. The print is what matters. Also there are 2 different kinds of vinyl flex tubing one of which is designed to use PEX fittings and clamps. FYI most new houses use plastic PEX fittings even when buried in a wall so if they were so bad we would have tens of thousands of homes with water running out of them. As for the thermafoil....it is fine if maintained but even at the price of the Eagle Jayco should have solid surface counters. Don't get me wrong I am a huge fan of Brinkley, have toured the factory and was very impressed but I also would not buy one because I don't feel their prices are justified. Let's see how long it takes for Brinkley to sell out for a mega profit just like Heartland and Grand Design did.
Thank you so much i was on the fence between a jayco eagle rdok and a brinkley fussing over a 20k price difference. 20k is worth the piece of mind for good plumbing. I cant believe jayco still cant get plumbing right in 2024 shame on them.
Thanks for watching! Glad it was helpful
Brinkley is definitely worth it in my opinion. I don't have experience with their customer service, but I've heard everyone has had a good experience with them.
Thanks for sharing!
Can you do a video on Northwood Arctic Fox products please.. I’d love to see a comparison with Brinkley and Arctic Fox.
Thanks for the request! I don’t have a comparison video, but here is a different review video from the Northwood brand - studio.ua-cam.com/users/videoutJsuKdJKlY/edit
There are currently 3 grades of that RV brand in my database from myself and other undercover shoppers. If you want to view the database and learn to assess the quality of any RV like I do in my reviews, you can take my RV shopping course and use my app to grade it yourself - undercoverrvshopper.com/rv-shopping-course/
I also offer consulting where I get on a call with you and we can talk through your budget, camping goals and I can review any RV listings you’re considering - undercoverrvshopper.com/book-a-consultation/
@@undercoverrvtech You got mail for when you get a moment.Ty
Yes, thank you. I really thought I was going with Jayco. The past few months I've seen disappointing information about this industry. Thank you for sharing your thoughts.
Glad it was helpful! Thanks for watching
So glad you reviewed these! the Brinkley suits the lifestyle for us ... still early days making a decision, but happy to see the scoring on both of these. and yes, we think the Brinkley is worth the extra $$
Thanks for watching and commenting!
I recently moved from a Rockwood Mini Lite to the Brinkley Z Air 285, and they are comparable in the amount of problems out the door and customer service. My reason for changing was I wanted a larger camper. My reason for choosing Brinkley over another Rockwood or Alliance (comparable floorplans and service reputation) was the foundation that Brinkley starts with. Most of their plumbing fittings are not only the correct connections, but brass instead of plastic. They are doing something to control the spaghetti mess that most manufacturers call wiring by using pre-assembled harnesses with labeled and color coded wires. Their sealant process appears to be superior to what the industry standard is, but only time will tell for sure. The fact that they are using Eternabond tape on all of the roof and wall connections and that none of the sealant is exposed to the sun speaks to how long it should last. Previous comments on Brinkley stating something is "industry standard" does not apply to their plumbing, wiring, or sealing of the unit, but it does to virtually everything else. But the bones of the Brinkley seem to me to be head and shoulders above the rest, and that is why I chose them. Is it worth $30,000? I doubt it, but if you can afford it, get the one that should give you the best bang for your buck.
Thanks for weighing in! I appreciate the comment
Have you ever looked at the Northwood Arctic Fox TT's or 5th wheels?
He has a video out there on an AF 27.5. It's a few years old now. I recall that his only issue with the plumbing was the use of one short section of flex tubing at the water pump. He said that would be easy to change.
I agree with you. I'd like to see more reviews of Northwood products like the AF and the more afordable Fox Mountain.
Thanks for pointing out the different color coding on hoses. I have a 2021 Jayco fifthwheel and will check that right away. I prefer the Schwintec to a cable driven slide. I'm not sold on spending the extra 30K. I'd change the plumbing on those locations you indicated. Great video again and thank you.
Thanks for watching! Glad it was helpful
We have a 2022 Jayco North point 310.
We have had several dozen issues over 2 years. Warranty covered all the repairs but what a time consuming pain in the rear!! Looking to buy a 2025 Brinkley 5th wheel hands down.
As a retired electrician, I do enjoy your videos. Great work👍
Thanks so much for watching! Glad the videos are helpful
How about frame size and plywood floors? Roofs? O s b? Thanks
Good questions. There is more to it than what you can see on the surface sometimes.
I have a Brinkley Z-285. Other than one minor issue, the bathroom facet, I have had no issues. Brinkley customer service
sent me a new facet overnight and issue solved. The only thing I think they could do better is design a battery compartment that can hold 2 group 31 batteries. Currently they only support 2 group 27 batteries, and that little tidbit of information is not published anywhere, and the dealers certainly don't know and won't tell you. As far as suspensions go., no towable on the market has a B+ rated suspension. For these higher end coaches, the manufacturers should offer as an option the MORRyde Independent suspensions system or IS for short. This is the only suspension on the market that will truly minimize the seismic road noise from being transmitted into the coach, which is the #1 cause, next to water, that will damage the unit. Do not let a dealer install this option. It is not cheap, and dealers don't care about the quality of their work, only the sale. Good video. You somewhat confirmed my research before I bought a month ago.
Thanks for the input!
hey Jacob, love your channel man! As A Rv Sales man i know that the brinkley is built better and higher quality but if you look at the price point and value in each unit the Jayco is really high quality for its price point. like the saying you get what you pay for lol. overall the Jayco does give you a good warranty and there just as good of quality as the Brinkley. {my opinion} keep up the great work.
Thanks so much for watching!
I've been looking for someone like you to learn how to do a smart buy of an RV for quality in the next year or so. I'll be purchasing your course before too long for my winter time learning sessions! Thanks for providing your expertise.
Thanks for watching! Glad the video was helpful!
Wonderfully made video! I’ve used your knowledge to help some family and friends get into an RV with me feeling a little safer what they can’t see. I was a keystone and NuCamp saleswoman two years ago. I’m a hairstylist now and I’m still selling them, I just take them shopping now lol. Your videos really help me, thank you so much for creating these videos and these UA-cam shorts.
Thanks for watching! Glad the videos are helpful!
Would love to see a review of a heartland cyclone toy hauler fifth wheel. Any model year from 2017- 2025.
Thanks for the request! I don’t have any review videos of this out yet, but there are 17 grades of that brand in my database from myself and other undercover shoppers. If you want to view the database and learn to assess the quality of any RV like I do in my reviews, you can take my RV shopping course and use my app to grade it yourself - undercoverrvshopper.com/rv-shopping-course/
I also offer consulting where I get on a call with you and we can talk through your budget, camping goals and I can review any RV listings you’re considering - undercoverrvshopper.com/book-a-consultation/
Brinkley and Alliance are, so far, on the top of our list as we are just beginning our research to to go fulltime (traveling, not stationary) in the next few years. So far, all research has been done online. We will be attending the Floriday RV Show this January.
Can you elaborate on why you mentioned you would not recommend either of these models for boondocking? We hope to do a lot of boondocking throughout our journey.
Thanks so much!
Appreciate the clarity of your judgment.
Thanks for watching! Glad the video was helpful!
Thanks for this video. I don’t plan on buying a travel trailer cause I want a motorhome to tow my jeep around. But subscribed and will be searching your videos to motor home review.
I finally got to tour a Brinkley Z3100 in person. The attention to detail is apparent but the trailer just felt like it had no soul. The interior is bland and uninspiring. The exterior is 1/3 giant slab black decals that I can see being a problem later. The lack of interior moulding may be a catchy sales pitch but to me it just looks like they cheaped out. I’ll be watching as the brand evolves but they need to hire an interior designer.
Jacob, I know I shouldn’t have to, but need to get in and inspect all my plumbing, and go ahead and fix it before it becomes a problem. I’m very frustrated these companies cut corners in something so serious. Since you have replaced all these fittings, what is an approximate cost of the materials to re-plumb a Jayco 263 RBS? To anyone wanting to buy a camper, I recommend your course, especially and hands down, if they are not getting an inspection. We love our Jayco and in 2023, it would have been very hard finding a camper with perfect plumbing. I’m hoping it won’t be too hard to get to and fix everything inside the camper. Not planning on cutting into my underbelly to check that out? At least if it leaks there, may not do too much damage, let’s hope. QUESTION; How much would it cost for them to put in the right fittings in materials? I know it would slow production down, but imagine if Jayco had A grad plumbing, solid surface counters? No chance anyone is going to solid wood frames too, I’m sure that would eat into the profits, lol? In Jayco’s defense, the few minor issues I’ve had, they were Great at approving the repairs, sending parts, etc. My local dealer in Richmond, A&L rv was fast on getting me taken care of. They replaced my slide seal in a couple days. I’m very fortunate to have a great dealer near me that has the same people in the service department that were at the old dealership that was bought out. Honestly, that should be a very important factor in where to purchase a camper. Maybe you can do a video on what questions to ask the dealer/service department on turn around time for repairs.
Thanks so much for watching and commenting! Here is my playlist on the plumbing issue and fixes - ua-cam.com/play/PLRhkJB7TNcSn2U5sDy5ic2iWr8kFxxd_N.html - this should answer a lot of your questions and be helpful
Also, here's an amazon link of what I use - www.amazon.com/shop/rigorrvrepair
@@jerrytalley802 I don't think it would even cost $20 more for correct plumbing parts on this RV. It really is complete nonsense.
Customer service is a awesome feature especially in the RV world. If Brinkley is as good as I have heard, yes, it is worth the extra money. Also after looking at many of your videos you don’t have many As. Good video.
Thanks for watching and for your input!
Thank you Jacob for all your excellent insights for all things RV My question is regarding the Brinkley model Z 2900 fifth wheel with the sink in the slide ? I know your feelings on that floor plan but given Brinkley's changes in how they plumb their RV's do you consider that to be a deal breaker ?
by far awesome video!!!
Thanks for watching! Glad the video was helpful!
We just bought a grand design momentum 395 ms toy hauler from camping world in Nashville , a 2023, great shape, no evidence of frame breaking,decided to sell our 2015 jayco super C, thank you for your reply,fyi: this is the 6th unit we bought from camping world and have been treated great,john yost
Thanks for watching! Glad the video was helpful!
I’d be interested in other things like the overall construction and materials of the camper itself. Otherwise, I can replace a couple plumbing lines and throw a solid surface counter top in a Jayco for $1,000 and save the extra 29,000 over the Brinkley.
we have been looking at the Brinkley as well - all the owners we've talked with (in the field) have nothing but good things to say. Once you've bought a camper, i don't think you can look at 30k "savings" when you have a hidden leak somewhere - or hidden potential issue. We boondook some (3-4 days at a time) and would like some feedback on the on-demand hot water heater. I'm well aware that a 12v fridge will use battery power faster than a propane fridge - but water heater? thanks for the video
Had quite a few plumbing issues up front with my 2022 Jayco 267BHSW, few other odds and ends with fitment and trim - but I have taken it on some rough forest service roads with the Baja package and Jayco covered everything on warranty and never had an issue. I primarily think it has to do with the dealer and service department being outstanding and making the effort to get the claims pushed through too. I don’t know that I’d buy another Jayco but I would definitely go through the dealer - I think just like cars that’s almost more important than the brand.
I noticed on a friend's brand new jayco northpoint that flexible tube coming into the the bathroom toliet with a splice then pex going to the foot pedal
Your the best man... i have and continue to fast track my learning becauase of you... i'm going to RV show in toronto to look at the brinkley ...as a past general contractor there is no other RV on the market i've found that comes close to the Brinkley.... the others better get their shit together or they are going to be seeing sales plummet. God Bless keep up the great work and i LOVE your emails you send out they are amazing much respect!
Thanks for watching! Glad the videos and emails have been helpful!
No experience with Brinkley, but can identify with the Jayco issues. Plumbing leaks due to the exact same hot water tank compression fittings and use of cold water tubing was encountered on a 264BH. Also had bad compression fitting on hot water bath sink fitting our newer 26RL which they fixed by going through underbelly to replace the whole line resulting in an ugly taped patch. Don’t get me started on bad thermafoil which is pulling loose from day one on the kitchen countertop 🙄
Thanks for weighing in!
The newer Brinkleys say the have all brass plumbing connections. Is that your experience?
Have owned 3 Jaycos. Currently own a Jayco North Point 5th wheel. Totally satisfied in all areas. Just my experience.
how would you compare them to Grand Design?
@@CJBronco2 don't know enough to make an honest comparison. I know GD has had some legal issues regarding frame flex - failure claims. GD uses routinely produced Lippert frames. Jayco also uses Lippert but specifies custom design specs and have had no frame issues. Jayco also has industry best 2+3 warranty, 2 yr full RV & 3 yr structural. Again, have been pleased with fit & finish, customer service AFTER the sale (rare), & overall build quality. Bottomline, there is no perfect RV. Just find one thats perfect for you & your family.
@@REL3712 Thats good to know... Ty for responding.. I do know that the Jayco I'm looking (19MRK) uses the BAL frame by Norco... even tho the frame flex was with the 5th wheels, I'm turned off to Lippert and won't buy anything with a lippert frame... Jayco - Plywood, Azdel, PVC vs GD OSB, Luhah, TPO but GDs seem to cost more... I'll keep digging but I do Ty for your input
Do you ever do reviews on truck campers? Northwoods (arctic fox), Lance etc. Thank you
Thanks for the request! I have a review video of a Lance truck camper - studio.ua-cam.com/users/video74BCczozfGc/edit
There are currently 4 grades of that RV brand in my database from myself and other undercover shoppers. If you want to view the database and learn to assess the quality of any RV like I do in my reviews, you can take my RV shopping course and use my app to grade it yourself - undercoverrvshopper.com/rv-shopping-course/
I also offer consulting where I get on a call with you and we can talk through your budget, camping goals and I can review any RV listings you’re considering - undercoverrvshopper.com/book-a-consultation/
Hi Jacob can you please go undercover on a riverstone legacy 442mc or the new 44dbl
Thanks for the request! I don’t have any review videos of this out yet, but there are 6 grades of that brand in my database from myself and other undercover shoppers. If you want to view the database and learn to assess the quality of any RV like I do in my reviews, you can take my RV shopping course and use my app to grade it yourself - undercoverrvshopper.com/rv-shopping-course/
I also offer consulting where I get on a call with you and we can talk through your budget, camping goals and I can review any RV listings you’re considering - undercoverrvshopper.com/book-a-consultation/
Our 2020 Jayco 224bh has been Awesome!
Hi , what’s your opinion about the jayco white hawk 30 RD 30 2018.
Thank you
Thanks for the request! I don’t have a review of that RV, but here is a different review video from that brand - studio.ua-cam.com/users/videowU75f12ksYs/edit
There are currently 35 grades of that RV brand in my database from myself and other undercover shoppers. If you want to view the database and learn to assess the quality of any RV like I do in my reviews, you can take my RV shopping course and use my app to grade it yourself - undercoverrvshopper.com/rv-shopping-course/
I also offer consulting where I get on a call with you and we can talk through your budget, camping goals and I can review any RV listings you’re considering - undercoverrvshopper.com/book-a-consultation/
Bought our z2900 in July and been in shop for last 2 months. Fridge failed twice, bathroom fan failed, front a/c failed, brakes dragging, miscellaneous pieces falling off. Understand the failed components not of Brinkley manufacture, but been waiting exactly 30 days and still no warranty approval from factory. Extended warranty was a waste of money, because we can’t even get new warranty work done….. dealer has trailer and won’t respond to questions about when we can expected these issues to be resolved.
Thanks for watching and commenting! My goal with these videos is to put pressure on the RV industry to improve
Since Brinkley has come out with a 5th wheel at 30’ we are’t considering anything else. We went to the Hershey RV show and didn’t know about the 30’ 5th wheel so we didn’t stop at the Brinkley display. We won’t make that mistake next year!!!
How do you like the Brinkley 5th wheels ? Can you do a comparison for 5th wheels ?
Here's my 5th wheel RV reviews playlist! ua-cam.com/play/PLRhkJB7TNcSl4vk_GL-Gsbqm5sT-knE8X.html
I also offer consulting where I get on a call with you and we can talk through your budget, camping goals and I can review any RV listings you’re considering - undercoverrvshopper.com/book-a-consultation/
awesome video... Thanks! No drama.. .just fact.
Thanks for watching!
I like 2 newer companies.. really like the encore rog 12bh and like the layout of the modern buggy bb14. Although there are two completely different styles of campers my intuition is telling me to stay away from the bb14. Do you have any insight on these 2 brands?
This is super interesting to us as we navigate the RV landscape in prep for retirement. Like everyone else here, we find a mismatch between the quality vs. price of new RVs. As Warren Buffet states, "Price is what you pay, value is what you get." and I find that in general, the value is lacking in new RVs. It does seem that Brinkley is changing that, thankfully. Another brand we've been interested in is Intech, particularly the Aucta series. Would love if you could do an assessment of these as it would seem that they've got a good story price/value wise based on their materials.
Thank you for the service you provide and the transparency that it brings to this frustrating industry.
Thanks for the request! I don’t have any review videos of this out yet, but there are 4 grades of that brand in my database from myself and another undercover shopper. If you want to view the database and learn to assess the quality of any RV like I do in my reviews, you can take my RV shopping course and use my app to grade it yourself - undercoverrvshopper.com/rv-shopping-course/
Thanks for watching and commenting!
I also offer consulting where I get on a call with you and we can talk through your budget, camping goals and I can review any RV listings you’re considering - undercoverrvshopper.com/book-a-consultation/
I want your advice on rockwood/flagstaff
Thanks for the request! I don’t have a review of a flagstaff, but here is a review video on a rockwood - studio.ua-cam.com/users/videoN6_i4QoPmYM/edit
There are currently 20 grades of that RV brand in my database from myself and other undercover shoppers. If you want to view the database and learn to assess the quality of any RV like I do in my reviews, you can take my RV shopping course and use my app to grade it yourself - undercoverrvshopper.com/rv-shopping-course/
I also offer consulting where I get on a call with you and we can talk through your budget, camping goals and I can review any RV listings you’re considering - undercoverrvshopper.com/book-a-consultation/
How about comparing apples to apples. If you get a jayco of the same price range it would have all the same stuff as the brinkley.
Just an idea.
I like your vids can you do some vids on artic fox 5th wheels if you can.
Thanks for the request! Here is a review video from that brand - studio.ua-cam.com/users/videoutJsuKdJKlY/edit
There are currently 3 grades of that RV brand in my database from myself. If you want to view the database and learn to assess the quality of any RV like I do in my reviews, you can take my RV shopping course and use my app to grade it yourself - undercoverrvshopper.com/rv-shopping-course/
I also offer consulting where I get on a call with you and we can talk through your budget, camping goals and I can review any RV listings you’re considering - undercoverrvshopper.com/book-a-consultation/
Great video. And yes, the Brinkley is worth the extra $$$.
Thanks for watching and for your input!
I have been watching your videos on a off for about a month. My wife And I are thinking about buying a rv is the any advice you can give us thx
Great! I offer consulting where I get on a call with you and we can talk through your budget, camping goals and I can review any RV listings you’re considering - undercoverrvshopper.com/book-a-consultation/
#5 (That's right, you left off the last important point to consider!) Resale value. Cheaper brands, or cheaper trims, may be harder to sell and will depreciate more quickly. Premium brands may be easier to sell and will depreciate less. That $30K you save up front may dwindle down to nothing come resale/trade-in time.
We just bought a 24 Jayco White Hawk (last year of the White Hawks) and I have found some bad plumbing which I will keep an eye on. Fit a finish is not great and I have had it in for warranty work for closet doors and exterior doors. We took a few short trips to work out the bugs you inevitably encounter with a new trailer (sad statement). We have an excellent dealer where I live so that helps and is a reason I purchased the Jayco. It seems to me their quality really declined after Thor bought them out in 2017 because previous Jayco’s were much better in my opinion based on the ones I owned. No way I would pay $30K extra for the Brinkley.
I appreciate the comment!
I have a Furrion 10 cu ft fridge, made by Everchill. Both companies are now owned by Lippert. It quit working after 3 years of constant use. I called the Lippert support number. They had me check power in and power out from the board. No power out. I was told the fridge is not repairable. I’m not buying another Everchill/Furrion/Lippert fridge or an RV with this brand installed.
Brinkley is a far better RV than most of the Rv's out today.
Thanks for weighing in!
Wish brinkley would drop furion products.
Currently own a Jayco and sad to say I knew Brinkley would come on top in this video. I knew you would find bad plumbing but was hoping they spent the time to put solid surface countertops in it being there high end travel trailer. I mean it literally has the same counter style as my 21 SLX 224bh stick and tin trailer! But for me considering I could replace the bad plumbing easy and cheap I say it’s not really worth the extra 30k for me though that’s just my opinion.
Do you happen to know what type of solid surface counter the rv industry is using for price comparisons?
We are 3 weeks into owning a Brinkley and we are over it. It’s all a smoke show. Can’t give it away for 1/3 less than we paid and we got it 20% off. They are marginally better than the market.
@@Nahbruhsheesh
Because Jayco’s warranty handling is the pits, I have one, still, i would go with Brinkley based on reputation
I’m surprised given the huge difference in roof sealants used and the resulting maintenance requirements that go with them you rated both roofs the same.
how do i get access to your rv database? it doesnt mention it in any of the packages, thanks!
You can take my RV shopping course and access the grading app here - undercoverrvshopper.com/rv-shopping-course/
Thanks for watching!
@@undercoverrvtech You got mail for when you get a moment.Ty
I call Jayco’s … Junko’s. Long story short : I had a StarCraft 230MLD that, start to finish, was a piece of garbage (I’m talking MAJOR structural issues). Jayco refused to take care of me unless I signed a document saying I wouldn’t sue them. I would NEVER buy a Thor product because of it. The Brinkley is off the list because I hate the frameless windows. So…. next… lol.
Thanks for your input!
You can do alot of upgrades to the Jayco with $30,000
Worth it
Very helpful
Thanks for watching!
I think the most important aspects of an RV you didn't cover: THE FRAME and structure. These are items that cannot be repaired easily or inexpensively. Look at the issues of the GD. Also look at the number of recalls. I would appreciate it if you compared the frame material, size, welding, hangers, cross members (i.e the Arctic Fox uses I-Beams on cross members not light weight steel with holes or simply a wire frame). What about the roof truss design and thickness, side wall insulation, floor material. The items you show are rather superficial. These items can't be repaired but they are the longevity of an RV.
Is this all Jayco with plumbing?
Brinkley is better made but $30,000? Hard to know what the price of superior components is. I know that Jayco has a reputation for serious manufacturing defects and giving disappointed owners a terrible run-around. I wouldn’t buy a Jayco for that reason only.
Had a 30' forest river 5th. After a yearit vibrated apart.😢😢
Is Brinkley still using a cheap 4” fart fan in the bathroom? That one boggles me for something so expensive.
Well done
Thanks for watching!
I have to disagree with your 12v refrigerators; I've had my furrion 12v, for almost 2 years with no problems in the winter of Illinois, no issues, not only that but it much more efficient, ice cold, no propane draw, yea.
Who is making a fifth wheel frame that won’t break? I can’t think of the special name that we call that now but they may need to have fifth wheel frames that don’t twist or fail somebody does
Northwood RV (Arctic Fox and Fox Mountain). In-house made frames using much thicker steel. Be prepared though, an Arctic Fox weighs a couple of thousand pounds more than the competition. This is due to the frame and the 2" thick walls.
Have you been in the 2025 Jayco yet wondering if they have improved any?
Thanks for the request! Here's a review I've done on a 2025 Jayco - studio.ua-cam.com/users/videowU75f12ksYs/edit
There are currently 35 grades of that RV brand in my database from myself and other undercover shoppers. If you want to view the database and learn to assess the quality of any RV like I do in my reviews, you can take my RV shopping course and use my app to grade it yourself - undercoverrvshopper.com/rv-shopping-course/
I also offer consulting where I get on a call with you and we can talk through your budget, camping goals and I can review any RV listings you’re considering - undercoverrvshopper.com/book-a-consultation/
There was no real inspection of the frame or box construction of either trailer. Frame/Axle issues are a big deal and should be looked at closely.
Too bad, Jayco used to be top end. Full timing? Look for a good used (no longer made) Teton Homes and update/upgrade it.
pause it @1:55 Thats all I need to see about Brinkley "quality" hype. lol
You forget one major aspect of value, perhaps the most important…customer service…watch Liz Amazing , her station advocates for the customer..Jayco is a nightmare..
Lumber core cabinetry still sucks!.
Why can't the RV industry come out with something that doesn't swell when water contacts it?
Even if only used at bottom of every cabinet that touches the floor.
If they are going to use a veneer wrap anyway, why not a composite material along all bottom of cabinets.
Thanks for watching and commenting! My goal with these videos is to put pressure on the RV industry to improve
Brinkley Customer Care has been amazing! I had a few issues pop up and Brinkley sent a mobile tech out immediately to fix. I would give Brinkley an A+. I had a GD prior to the Brinkley and their customer service was horrendous.
Brinkley is so hit or miss. The horror stories are profound and undeniable. And people have recordings so this is not disputed. When you buy a Brinkley, you go back for Warranty work week one and they start using the phrase industry standard. Nothing is better. Nothing is different.
Eh… 😂
Thanks for your input!
Much of the pex pipe uses crimp type items. Pex A, IMHO, is better. I work at Lowes.....not a professional plumber....
What are your thoughts on DRV 5th wheel toy haulers?
Thanks for the request! I don’t have any review videos of this out yet, but there are 2 grades of that brand in my database from myself and other undercover shoppers. If you want to view the database and learn to assess the quality of any RV like I do in my reviews, you can take my RV shopping course and use my app to grade it yourself - undercoverrvshopper.com/rv-shopping-course/
I also offer consulting where I get on a call with you and we can talk through your budget, camping goals and I can review any RV listings you’re considering - undercoverrvshopper.com/book-a-consultation/