You are one of the BEST things to happen to the RV Industry....we need this kind of consumer warnings to protect and educate ourselves. Very much appreciated!!
hi Mr Jacob, sorry for my bad english, i'm Italian. i'm an expert technician in my country. your videos are the only ones where I see truth. I congratulate you!
Hi Jacob, I am an RV Inspector and have written up a lot of those bubbles in brand new roofs. However, the manufacturers say it is normal. I’ve never been settled on that and always point it out to my clients. Thank you!
We had 2 Montana High Countrys that went back to the factory due to frame issues. While they didn't have those outrigger spacers, they use sheet metal cross members with minimal weld strength, so the latter frame falls apart.
Jacob, your videos are interesting and informative. I love that you have a rating system to help consumers be better informed and be able to do some comparisons when shopping! We own the exact year, make and model in your review and want to make one correction. Our 2023, Montana 3941 has (3) Exact-slide systems in the upper decks and (2) hydraulic slides in the lower kitchen area. I am very familiar with the BAL Accu-slide systems. These are notorious for gear boxes going bad and I have replaced several as an RV Tech. The main issue with this design is that the owner can hold down the slide button when fully extending/retracted which puts a lot of force on the wall/gearbox and cables. I feel the Exact-slide is a bit better of a design for a cable system than the Accu-slide. It has dual in-wall motors that “amp out” or stop pulling (like a Schwintek) once fully extended or retracted which lessens the amount of force on the cable system. However, they are not foolproof. I have already had to adjust the cables on mine and almost all lock nuts were loose on all three slides. I have also replaced an Exact-slide gearbox on a 2022 Jayco. The frame issue you bring up is legit. We have these frame outriggers and some already look to be bending. I will be heading your advice on getting these modified. We do put a lot of miles on ours.
This exact model was on the top of my list. I'm super disappointed but SO glad I watched this video before taking the plunge! Thank you for your honest ratings and detailed explanations! You are the bestest! 😍🤩
Love your videos and information. We have a 2023 Montana 3901RK which is a rear kitchen model with 5 slide outs. Our slide outs utilize the shwintek system on the 3 small slide outs but the 2 large slide outs are the gear rack type. I don't know what they are called. We don't have any cable driven slide outs. Also, on our unit, the z-gussets on the frame, support the floor directly over almost the entire unit. However I do see the z-gussets with the box bracket under the large slide outs, but only two places. We just toured the Montana factory and didn't see any of the cable driven slide out systems. I know you speak favorably about their cabinets but in a few areas the cabinet drawer slide mechanisms suck. I've had to replace the drawer slides on the cabinets in the bedroom. We may be looking for a different layout 5th wheel next year so we'll use your insight to make sure we don't buy junk.
I am really surprised that a 2023 montana is using cable slides at all. We have a 2022 MHC and Keystone got rid of cable slides altogether. So pleased. we are very happy with our MHC
What fifth wheels do you give an A to? I looked through all of your videos and couldn't find an A rating or even a B+. Do you have any recommendations? Your videos are AMAZING and so helpful! Thank you!
There are many 5th wheels in my database that have an A grade both graded by me and other Undercover Shoppers who have used my app to grade RVs. You can check out all the details here at undercoverrvshopper.com/ Thanks for watching!
After your reviews I started thinking outside the box and came across ATC (Aluminum Trailer Co) RV’s. They are known for Cargo Trailers but are making toy hauler RV’s now which look pretty cool. If you come across one I would love to know your thoughts.
I would like to see you review the 2023 Riverstone Legacy 39RKFB also. I’m having trouble with my dinette slide bouncing when I extend it and the dealership says it is normal. The aft inner and outer rails are not equal distance on each side.
Not one within 1500 miles of him. The NW's I have seen are built nice but with just horrible layouts/colors and no features. It's like their designer is stuck in the 70's
Jacob, I have two questions regarding the PEX pipe and fittings; (1) if the location of the "cinch clamp" makes it impossible to cut it with the proper tool, can it be opened by cutting the "crown" with a Dremel tool? (2) in the aforementioned hard to reach places, can a "worm gear" clamp be used instead of a cinch clamp? Love your videos ...... keep them coming.
Yes a rotary tool like Dremel would work to cut the "crown" or pinched part of the clamp. I don't really love worm drive type clamps but they are the only solution if you are using a barb fitting because the barb is larger diameter and you cant fit a pinch clamp (oetiker clamp) over the tubing and fitting. I'm actually working on testing another type of connection called PEX lock that has a special clamp designed to join flex and PEX. I'm not 100% sold yet, and it may not work with tubing that has expanded in diameter, but it is actually specified by the fitting manufacturer to work with flex and PEX fittings unlike pinch clamps. Stay tuned for that video.
Hi Jacob! I am not sure if you have covered any Columbus fifth wheels but, I am curious of your thoughts on the 388FK and the 384RK. My husband have been looking at those as well as the Cedar Creek 388rk2 and the 390rk. I tried to look through your videos on your channel, I may have missed any videos you had regarding these brands, but I would love to see you review them. My husband and I will be first time buyers and we will be hiring a third party inspector for sure. I appreciate all of your honesty in your reviews and your breakdown of what you see and how to avoid certain issues. Thank you!
Columbus, not yet! I'm actually in the middle of a consultation on a Columbus 384RK 5th wheel. I will likely make a video about that and the grade it gets. I do have several Cedar Creeks in my database, but I was not able to make a video about it because I had a hard drive crash and lost footage. Because manufacturers are changing things so often, I always recommend getting my shopping course and learning what to look for when you are shopping RVs. You can see what both the free and paid version include here, undercoverrvshopper.com/mini-course/ Thanks for watching!
@undercoverrvtech Thank you! That would be awesome! Oh man, I'm sorry about your hard drive! I will definitely be looking into your courses and use them when we are ready to start going to look at RVs! It will be a huge help for sure! Thank you again, I really appreciate your time and for getting back to me!
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/videozCBzJdHaQTo/edit
There are currently 15 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/
Id love to! I'm not sure if I will happen across one this year when I'm filming reviews, so if you are seriously shopping for that RV the best thing I can recommend is to get my shopping course and use my grading app to get my score for that RV. Here is the link to see everything included in my VR Shopping Course, undercoverrvshopper.com/ Thanks for watching!
I understand that Lippert will manufacture frames according to the specs given to them. If Keystone gives Lippert shit on specs, that's what they'll build.
Frame flex causes are difficult to identify without tearing into the unit (which the seller won't allow). However, there definitely ARE clear signs of frame failure: 1) "clean" white areas along exterior trim straps where there is no dirt/sun fading and no caulk 2) cracks or separation of frame members when viewed from within the basement compartments using a flashlight 3) Interior cabinet wear marks, especially where cabinet trim or edges meet the exterior walls 4) Doorway alignment and/or latching issues 5) Measurements from pin to front frame corners differ more than 1/4" from one side to the other 6) Visible changes in any of these areas between when unit is on jacks vs when unit is lowered onto tow vehicle.
I think you are too hard on thermafoil. This is a highly durable vinyl product and while not as fancy as stone counters, so sure give it a lower score for that, it is a product that many people use in their residence for counters: many people now choose vinyl plank flooring because of it durability.
I owned a higher end Montana, it was a POS that Keystone doesn't support, seriously, they don't. We bought new in 2013, GREAT FRAME (last year for great frames) , the rest, absolute garbage.
Your clips are helpful but in all fairness listening to your reviews on various 5th wheels I would never buy one at all! It almost seems to be you want to find reasons to say the camper you are reviewing is a pile of junk
You are one of the BEST things to happen to the RV Industry....we need this kind of consumer warnings to protect and educate ourselves. Very much appreciated!!
Sure would be helpful if you listed the top 5 RV’s in each category I.e., Class A, Class B, Class C, travel trailers, fifth wheels,etc.
hi Mr Jacob, sorry for my bad english, i'm Italian.
i'm an expert technician in my country.
your videos are the only ones where I see truth. I congratulate you!
Your grading scale is brutal, but absolutely fair. I hope RV manufacturers are watching because they do need to be called out for quality issues.
also, we appreciate your honesty and help Jacob!!!
Hi Jacob, I am an RV Inspector and have written up a lot of those bubbles in brand new roofs. However, the manufacturers say it is normal. I’ve never been settled on that and always point it out to my clients. Thank you!
You are awesome Jacob! I have a really fantastic RV tech and he watches your video's too! Thank you!
We had 2 Montana High Countrys that went back to the factory due to frame issues. While they didn't have those outrigger spacers, they use sheet metal cross members with minimal weld strength, so the latter frame falls apart.
Jacob, your videos are interesting and informative. I love that you have a rating system to help consumers be better informed and be able to do some comparisons when shopping!
We own the exact year, make and model in your review and want to make one correction. Our 2023, Montana 3941 has (3) Exact-slide systems in the upper decks and (2) hydraulic slides in the lower kitchen area. I am very familiar with the BAL Accu-slide systems. These are notorious for gear boxes going bad and I have replaced several as an RV Tech. The main issue with this design is that the owner can hold down the slide button when fully extending/retracted which puts a lot of force on the wall/gearbox and cables.
I feel the Exact-slide is a bit better of a design for a cable system than the Accu-slide. It has dual in-wall motors that “amp out” or stop pulling (like a Schwintek) once fully extended or retracted which lessens the amount of force on the cable system. However, they are not foolproof. I have already had to adjust the cables on mine and almost all lock nuts were loose on all three slides. I have also replaced an Exact-slide gearbox on a 2022 Jayco.
The frame issue you bring up is legit. We have these frame outriggers and some already look to be bending. I will be heading your advice on getting these modified. We do put a lot of miles on ours.
This exact model was on the top of my list. I'm super disappointed but SO glad I watched this video before taking the plunge! Thank you for your honest ratings and detailed explanations! You are the bestest! 😍🤩
Love your videos and information. We have a 2023 Montana 3901RK which is a rear kitchen model with 5 slide outs. Our slide outs utilize the shwintek system on the 3 small slide outs but the 2 large slide outs are the gear rack type. I don't know what they are called. We don't have any cable driven slide outs. Also, on our unit, the z-gussets on the frame, support the floor directly over almost the entire unit. However I do see the z-gussets with the box bracket under the large slide outs, but only two places. We just toured the Montana factory and didn't see any of the cable driven slide out systems. I know you speak favorably about their cabinets but in a few areas the cabinet drawer slide mechanisms suck. I've had to replace the drawer slides on the cabinets in the bedroom. We may be looking for a different layout 5th wheel next year so we'll use your insight to make sure we don't buy junk.
Thank you Roundy
thanks roundy!
Thanks Roundy
I agree with the grade. You can fix pinch clamps on PEX yourself, but you can’t change the slide mechanism.
I am really surprised that a 2023 montana is using cable slides at all. We have a 2022 MHC and Keystone got rid of cable slides altogether. So pleased. we are very happy with our MHC
Another awesome video by the best around. Thank you Jacob !!!
was considering a montana until i seen the slides who needs the trouble tks for your insite
What fifth wheels do you give an A to? I looked through all of your videos and couldn't find an A rating or even a B+. Do you have any recommendations? Your videos are AMAZING and so helpful! Thank you!
There are many 5th wheels in my database that have an A grade both graded by me and other Undercover Shoppers who have used my app to grade RVs. You can check out all the details here at undercoverrvshopper.com/
Thanks for watching!
I would be very interested to see you do a review of a Redwood 4200FL.....
thank you again love these. Still saving money to by an overpriced airstream in a few years.
After your reviews I started thinking outside the box and came across ATC (Aluminum Trailer Co) RV’s. They are known for Cargo Trailers but are making toy hauler RV’s now which look pretty cool. If you come across one I would love to know your thoughts.
I like the montana 3915...Do you think that when driving the motorhome, the rear of the RV drags against the concrete of the road (dropflame)?
Have you done one of these on a Jayco specifically eagle line?
How about reviewing a Riverstone Legacy 39 RKFB. Roundly thank you!
Any riverstone legacy
I would like to see you review the 2023 Riverstone Legacy 39RKFB also. I’m having trouble with my dinette slide bouncing when I extend it and the dealership says it is normal. The aft inner and outer rails are not equal distance on each side.
PLEASE do a review on the Northwood Arctic Fox 5th wheel, the 35-5Z or the new 36-5VS...please.
Not one within 1500 miles of him. The NW's I have seen are built nice but with just horrible layouts/colors and no features. It's like their designer is stuck in the 70's
@@OmahaWayne My main concern is the plumbing. Do you recall what type of plumbing they used?
@@1vmxracer No i dont, but the next time I am in lincoln Ne will hop in one and check real quick
Another great video and review, thank you!!
Jacob, I have two questions regarding the PEX pipe and fittings; (1) if the location of the "cinch clamp" makes it impossible to cut it with the proper tool, can it be opened by cutting the "crown" with a Dremel tool? (2) in the aforementioned hard to reach places, can a "worm gear" clamp be used instead of a cinch clamp? Love your videos ...... keep them coming.
Yes a rotary tool like Dremel would work to cut the "crown" or pinched part of the clamp. I don't really love worm drive type clamps but they are the only solution if you are using a barb fitting because the barb is larger diameter and you cant fit a pinch clamp (oetiker clamp) over the tubing and fitting.
I'm actually working on testing another type of connection called PEX lock that has a special clamp designed to join flex and PEX. I'm not 100% sold yet, and it may not work with tubing that has expanded in diameter, but it is actually specified by the fitting manufacturer to work with flex and PEX fittings unlike pinch clamps. Stay tuned for that video.
@@undercoverrvtech Thank you, Jacob. For the reply AND for all the interesting and informative videos.
Thanks to Roundy
THANKS!!
Would love to see you review 2023 forest river rockwood 8332sb. Bought knowing nothing...did research but hoping it wasn't a monumental mistake.
Thank you. Where are the Affordable but quality RV's?
Thank you
Nice video - want to hear more about 2024 Durango Golds - interested to hear your thoughts
Hi Jacob! I am not sure if you have covered any Columbus fifth wheels but, I am curious of your thoughts on the 388FK and the 384RK. My husband have been looking at those as well as the Cedar Creek 388rk2 and the 390rk. I tried to look through your videos on your channel, I may have missed any videos you had regarding these brands, but I would love to see you review them. My husband and I will be first time buyers and we will be hiring a third party inspector for sure. I appreciate all of your honesty in your reviews and your breakdown of what you see and how to avoid certain issues. Thank you!
Columbus, not yet! I'm actually in the middle of a consultation on a Columbus 384RK 5th wheel. I will likely make a video about that and the grade it gets. I do have several Cedar Creeks in my database, but I was not able to make a video about it because I had a hard drive crash and lost footage. Because manufacturers are changing things so often, I always recommend getting my shopping course and learning what to look for when you are shopping RVs. You can see what both the free and paid version include here, undercoverrvshopper.com/mini-course/
Thanks for watching!
@undercoverrvtech Thank you! That would be awesome! Oh man, I'm sorry about your hard drive! I will definitely be looking into your courses and use them when we are ready to start going to look at RVs! It will be a huge help for sure! Thank you again, I really appreciate your time and for getting back to me!
Can the ac system be changed to another brand down the road?
I'm a HVAC tech. by trade. Question; What refrigerant are using these days ( especially on the Colman) on the A/C units ? ie..R410A, Ect... ??
Does any company make a quality yet affordable 5th wheel RV ???
Good job
Would you review the new 3531re by Montana?
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/videozCBzJdHaQTo/edit
There are currently 15 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/
Can you review a Coachmen Chaparral 360IBL?
Id love to! I'm not sure if I will happen across one this year when I'm filming reviews, so if you are seriously shopping for that RV the best thing I can recommend is to get my shopping course and use my grading app to get my score for that RV. Here is the link to see everything included in my VR Shopping Course, undercoverrvshopper.com/
Thanks for watching!
I understand that Lippert will manufacture frames according to the specs given to them. If Keystone gives Lippert shit on specs, that's what they'll build.
Frame flex causes are difficult to identify without tearing into the unit (which the seller won't allow).
However, there definitely ARE clear signs of frame failure:
1) "clean" white areas along exterior trim straps where there is no dirt/sun fading and no caulk
2) cracks or separation of frame members when viewed from within the basement compartments using a flashlight
3) Interior cabinet wear marks, especially where cabinet trim or edges meet the exterior walls
4) Doorway alignment and/or latching issues
5) Measurements from pin to front frame corners differ more than 1/4" from one side to the other
6) Visible changes in any of these areas between when unit is on jacks vs when unit is lowered onto tow vehicle.
👍
I think you are too hard on thermafoil. This is a highly durable vinyl product and while not as fancy as stone counters, so sure give it a lower score for that, it is a product that many people use in their residence for counters: many people now choose vinyl plank flooring because of it durability.
Niaaaaaace
tytyty
I can’t believe people spend well over $100,000 on these RV’s. Ridiculous.
Would love to see a review on a new Coachman Crosstrail 20xg or 21xg, small motorhome.
If you give TPO 10 out of 10, what do you give fiberglass and metal-----20 out of 10???
I owned a higher end Montana, it was a POS that Keystone doesn't support, seriously, they don't. We bought new in 2013, GREAT FRAME (last year for great frames) , the rest, absolute garbage.
Lippert frames have proven to be unreliable, and the company doesn’t want to stand behind their product !
Lippert builds the frames to the design specs the rv company lays out.
Ac tech here, Coleman/jci is trash. Also gets destroyed by salty air
Your clips are helpful but in all fairness listening to your reviews on various 5th wheels I would never buy one at all! It almost seems to be you want to find reasons to say the camper you are reviewing is a pile of junk
Thanks Roundy
Thanks Rowndy