Not to familiar with Alliance, but many campers with the same floor plans were less $$ than my Brinkley. What I paid for was the tires, Axles, the way they did their wiring and plumbing, the standard solar panel and the 18,000 BTU Chill Cube AC unit that I can run on my 2200W Honda generator. Used to have to use 2 generators that size to get half the cold air. I was more interested in reliability. After spending time time in and under it doing my modifications, the fit and finish is by far the best I've been around.
We bought the Brinkley simply because of fit and finish and customer service. Yes it has the electronics but no touch screen! It has a ton of outlets and usb outlets too. I would say it’s not 3/4 ton towable. We just weighed ours with our F350 and we have some room but not as much as I thought. Good luck!
We bought a 2020, pre COVID reflection 31 mb fifth wheel that has 3 schwintek slides. We have used it a lot and knock on wood they have never missed a beat. Lucky maybe, but I understand you being weary of them. Good luck in your search they all looked nice. I would check my truck payload and pin weights of those rigs. I’m not the tow police or an online expert so please don’t take that negative. Looking forward to seeing your new rig when you get it. You guys have become one of our favorite channels. Safe travels
Check the pin weight on the fifth wheels! It’s as important as GVWR. You have to remember that you’ll have the added weight of a 5th wheel hitch, plus passengers & any other cargo, + your pin weight, vs cargo capacity on the sticker in the door jamb of your 3/4 ton truck. Just make sure it’s doable! Best wishes & happy shopping!
We bought an Alliance 292RL in March. Nice rig, warranted for full-time use. I had to replace a GFCI plug, and Alliance sent me a check within days of being presented with the receipt.
TJ has mastered the salesman's art of a non-committal answer. I also think the Waggs unit would be great for you. I don't think Jarrett's truck is up to the task however. Good hunting.
We purchased a 2023 340RL 13 months ago, it has been nearly flawless. We go at a minimum of every month, no matter what the weather is doing. We have seen 115 degrees down to single digits, the 340 has worked perfectly. The front slide is a Schwintech and has not had an issue. The bathroom IS AVAILABLE with the bedroom in. The folks at Alliance are awesome and the quality is quite good. You will really enjoy the 340!
In 2021 we drove from north Texas and bought our new Lance 1172 truck camper from Bankston Motorhomes at Huntsville, Alabama. We had an issue with the manufacturer and Bankston bent over backward to help us get it rectified. We highly recommend their dealership!
We had narrowed our search to the 340RL and the 32RSL by Alliance, the deciding factor for us was the access to the front, the 340 blocked the entry to the front of the trailer with the slide in. Making bathroom breaks a bit difficult. Agree with the other comments about the Waggs Unit. That is a sweet deal for everything you would get.
I love the quality of Alliance. If we could afford the tow vehicle to go with it, we'd have one.❤ Best wishes on a great one for y'all. Happy trails!❤🙏
I agree. We have a motorhome with good size windows and the A/C works really hard to keep it cool inside during the day. We have to keep the windows covered depending on which side the sun is shining on each site we are able to get into.
We are biased right now with Alliance and looking for our next fifth wheel in the Paradigm family. We do love our Alliance Avenue 33RKS which meets most of your wants list with the rear kitchen, outdoor kitchen, and auto leveling. ;-)
If you guys would consider used, WAYWARD WAGGS are selling their Alliance (exactly the one you saw) at a wonderful price, below your budget with a fantastic solar set up. They are in AL.
We just put the Sport Trek on our list to look at, when we get ready. I love it! I wasn’t crazy about the closet option. Thank you for mentioning the outlets. It CAN be an issue.
Only concern I would have is the Salesmans 3/4 ton towable on the Sporttrek rear kitchen. Looks like dry pin weight is 2200. I have a 3/4 with payload package which gives me 3158 in total payload. Per Ford my max pin weight is 2054. It’s just something to consider is all.
I love the rear kitchen floor plan on the Sportrek however I would do your homework on whether your 3/4 ton can safely tow it. You will be surprise it might not be enough truck for the payload, weight wise you are probably fine it’s the payload you also have to watch. We have a 1 ton diesel and have a 32RLS Alliance Avenue and we are only 150lbs within our payload limit. We were very surprised when we had ours weighed. You will not only want to keep the weight in mind but also the payload when shopping. Enjoyed your video and happy shopping 😊
Sliding windows are a must😎 Brinkley is a NO BECAUSE OF THE WINDOWS…….. Cougar misses because of cable slides are a deal breaker🥴 Steps must be on camp side for access to bath and bed on dry nights.
This was a really great video! I liked the checklists prior to the tours, checking off preferences as you went along, and then the conversation in the truck on the way home. The conversation felt very real and natural between the two of you, and we were along for the ride. 😊 Except for that couch situation, I liked the Sporttrek too. Ambassadors soon? 😉
thanks for showing different options than what most youtubers show! you really need to add Oklahoma to your state that you stayed in. Oklahoma may surprise you! Tulsa has so great barbecue
I'd take the Sporttrek as well! The Venture outdoor kitchen "Campfire Cafe" is AWESOME with the TV and all! I would definitely NOT take a Lippert Schwintek or a BAL Accuslide cable slide, but I would take the BAL exact cable slide for smaller slides & thru frame (rack & pinion) for larger slides.
We went Brinkley 3100, you can get it really close to your price range. Bankston would not get close to the price other dealers were offering. The Z3100 is going to be probably over weight for most 3/4 tons, pin weight loaded is 2800ish. Mines been great, and the one issue I had they let me use an independent shop, and was handled quickly. I’ll agree, Lippert is the weak link, but it is hard to avoid them.
Just saw the 353VIK at Dallas Southwest RV Supershow a week ago and loved it. Definitely want a BAL frame. Kitchen was a little small and needs a window behind the cooktop, but really liked the coffee bar/pantry configuration.
Schwintek is a hit or miss system I don’t like them but sometimes you have make concessions. When my Schwintek fails. I’m replacing it with the Vroom system
We spent 2 years looking with almost the same list you have including the frame. We just decided on 2024 East to West Blackthorn, price under your budget this time of year. It's the best decision we ever made.
We bought a 2024 Alliance 340RL and love it!! Check around on price… we got ours for $89000. Full body paint will add about $12000+, really nice I think but to me not worth it. Good luck, great channel!!! Take care
I bought the Alliance Paradigm 380 MP because we needed space for grand kids. I don't like the longer size, but spending that much money I want space for everyone. Go big or go home. I pick it up this Friday.
Jarrett - you should spend some time reading the forums for each manufacturer you are looking at. We have 2018 Montana 3921FB. Small bedroom slide is Schwintek and big LR slides are Lippert hydraulic. Leveling is Lippert Hydraulic. No issues. I keep the Schwintek lubricated with teflon spray, tracks clean and baby powder on the seals (reduced friction for any slide) and have had no issues. I would not want a big slide using Schwintek mechanism. When you were looking at the Cougar I told Debbie it would fall apart 6 months after you bought it. Our 04 Fleetwood Southwind motorhome has hydraulic slides and levelers by Power Gear (Owned by Lippert). 20 yrs old and they work like clockwork.
While a rear kitchen is nice, remember that part of the 5th wheel bounces the most when towing. I’ve talked to a few owners of GD rear kitchen models and they are constantly replacing broken items in cabinets
If it were me I would seriously consider an Arctic Fox or Outdoors RV . They are better made . They build their own chassis in house and have them third party certified. We were in Idaho Falls 2 weeks ago and went to Bish’s RV and got to see an Arctic Fox in the flesh . When we retire we are buying one . The quality is top notch .
We have a Rockwood 30 foot fifth wheel now, looking to get a 37 foot fifth wheel leading towards the Cedar Creek ,you mentioned that you had a Cedar Creek? I was wondering why you’re not considering that again?
Sounds like your gonna be hand building your new 5th wheel.. I bought a northwoods nash brand new 10 years ago.. not a single issue , the shwintek slides haven't been a problem either 🤷♂️
I would love to own a Brinkley but it is not in my budget. I love the lighter interior colors! Nothing over 35 feet for us. Happy Hunting! Ty for sharing.
@davidmccartney7577 their not crank out windows since like 20 years ago, and they have several color options.. mines 10 years old now and I'm still impressed with the quality of the construction, haven't had a single problem except for 1 blown speaker
@@Liimpy I know but they don’t open enough for a cross breeze. These are what’s in our present MH. Alliance and GD checks most of our boxes with Alliance hitting 9 out of 10.
Been looking for about 18 months, ordered a F450 in June have been very interested in the SportTrek 354 bunk model, but looking at both Brinkley and Alliance found a used Alliance 382RK really looking at it seriously. I appreciate the watch Val was putting her input in, Good luck y’all. Jarrod you can buy a Z3100 for 85k check with Hank Rives at Three Way Campers in Marietta, GA
Hey guys! Just came across you all yesterday with your video on Hilton Head National and we just booked for next year! You guys do a good job. Good insight and not annoying like some! Was that an OSU sticker in your side window!?!
We have the alliance 295 mk and love it. No outdoor kitchen. I think you can get one for low 80 range. My husband fell in love with the windows. Agree with Jarod on the slides you want hydraulic for the main slides.
I have not looked at a Sporttrek. After a 18 months of research I keep coming back to Brinkley. I just feel the build and fit and finish is far and above anything else. The first thing I look at is the drawers as that tells a story. Real wood and dovetail. Although the price is more than I want to pay. Also their customer service is top notch. I plan on purchasing in December and will continue the search. Our must haves are similar to yours. We currently have a F250 SD and hope I don’t have to upgrade. Thanks for sharing. I 100% agree about the price if you have to buy another truck then class A is on the list. What slide mechanism? Schwintec is a no go as well as the BAL cable slide for me.
My trading-in-next-Friday-on-a-Brinkley Ember RV has the BAL frame and Exact Slide cable slideout. I had to make a tiny adjustment on the slide cable when new, but some people have told me I may suffer from being a perfectionist :). The slide mechanisms on the Brinkley are Lippert's replacement of their Schwintek slides.
We have 7 kids 😂. We’re done! Only 5 travel anymore. We’re in a 41 Atlas 5th wheel and works great. We’re out of Nashville, would love to meet up, love your channel!
I loved your video. I just found your channel and subscribed. I can't wait to see what you pick. Personally I don't know enough about fifth wheels to voice an opinion. My wife and I live in South West Florida. We have a Class A diesel pusher. We only part time, but we absolutely love RV's.
Lippert makes so many things for RVs that I honestly don't think it's possible to buy a TT or 5th wheel that doesn't have something made by Lippert. I'm not sure why you kept mentioning wanting an American made frame. Lippert gets their steel and makes their frames right in Indiana. With that said, is Lippert perfect? Not by a long shot. However, I will say that I believe a lot of the issues going on with frames right now, is manufacturer(s) under designing frame they intend to use with the structure, and that "time is money" corporate mentality has severely reduced the QA on builds, especially from some manufacturers; I won't say names, but I'm sure you get what I'm talking about. Some other things to consider that you didn't mention. What about plumbing? PEX is going to be the bulk of the plumbing, but if they used flexible tubing, did they use the correct type of fittings to making that transition? Connecting flexible to a PEX fitting will almost surely result in leaks. What about the counter tops? The kitchens all looked like solid surface, but often times you will find that they saved a few bucks in the bathroom by using thermofoil on MDF, which doesn't react well to getting wet. Same with the cabinets. Are they at least lumber core on the frames and real wood doors/drawers, or again, just a veneer over MDF? Are the larger drawers reinforced to actually be able to use that space without the bottom falling out. I get it. You have a budget, but you may want to check more closely on where the manufacturer saved on the build costs to bring it in at that price point.
We had a rear kitchen fifth wheel. Things break in the shelves when travelling down the road if you don't have independant suspension. Even broke some Corel plates.
@ourenextadventurejvh you need to check out the 2025 Alliance 5th wheel that is a rear kitchen. @firmlyunbound did a video and it had a lot of what you wanted. I think it is the Paradigm, Lots of options and ticked so many of your boxes. I also like that they are independently owned as opposed to under the umbrella. One reason we chose an Intech. 2 trifold sofas, but it may be over your length. It is a bath and a half. What do you think?
I guess I don’t get the fifth wheel for the cost of rig + truck. We moved to a Class C towing a jeep and love it. If I had no economic restrictions I’d look at the Super C. Good luck. I do love the storage in Fifth Wheel! 👍🤔😎😂
This video helped me to subscribe, well done. I’m considering the Venture 354VBH, the frame design using Huck fasteners rather than welds is a major sales point. I have engineering experience with the Huck bolts and am sold on that fastenting design. Since you have a Venture, what are your overall thoughts? I currently have a ‘21 Jayco 280RSOK, lots of maintenance. Like you both, I like the Brinkley, but I don’t have a bottomless wallet. Has your Venture been reliable? Thanks for your time putting this information out there.
You need to do a lot more research about what is 3/4 ton towable. Your payload capacity of your truck will determine that more than the weight of the trailer. Look at the pin weight and remember that you have to add your your hitch and everything to your truck to the payload. It adds up quickly.
I was looking at the Alliance models this week a bit pricey for weekend camping. The Sportex looked great especially for the price point. We have 5 sons and 13 grandchildren. I may ride to Huntsville and check them out and get some Big Bobs bbq while I’m there. Lol
We recently narrowed our search down to a Brinkley and Alliance. We ended up choosing a Brinkley, because it was more premium and ironically less money. You said the roads in Tennessee are bad. Where in TN are you talking about and where are you comparing it to? Of course the roads in and around city centers are not going to be great, but that's common for all/most cities. I have driven in quite a few states and our roads in Tennessee are great! We recently drove our RV through South Carolina and those roads are horrendous.
Cargo capacity is comparatively low on the Sporttrek 5th-wheels at roughly 1,700 lbs. Probably not as big a deal for part-timers though unless planning to load it up with solar/lithium/generator....
Just curious is there any particular reason you’re wanting the BAL frame with the HUK fastener? The reason I ask is I have a 2020 Arctic Wolf 3660 and that is what it has.
Wife & I are shopping like you & glad we started when we did. Out of the 10 Youtbers we follow everyone has a different brand. We cannot believe how many people are ok with the amount of repairs needed & some are very expensive. Lippert is catching hell for GD engineered nightmare, not all frames are made the same. So far Alliance & Brinkley owners have the least repairs we've seen. Both brands are not owned by investors & build with QUALITY in mind over quantity. I'd rather spend more up front than buy a lower priced rig only to become a RV Repair Tech later.
How can you say that lippert frames aren't American made? They are made in Indiana, I was just past one of their factories this past week. Keystone cougar is a great mid priced RV, you just need to spend some time on the Internet and search through the reviews on all rv's in the price range.
If the salesman says he thinks a 3/4 ton truck could pull the Sporttrek, I would be concerned. Have to look at pin weight as well. I would check and upgrade to a Ford one-ton w/ diesel.
All very nice RVs, guys, but purchase for yourselves, not your kids. Before you know it, they will not want to go camping with you any longer, so get something the two of you like. We upsized from a 29 foot travel trailer to a 39 foot Montana 5th wheel back in 2018, and we love it. It has a king sized sofa bed in the rear and we've used it only once when family came with us. It is really a couples coach with all the luxury for just my wife and myself. Our Montana has one Schwintech electric slide for the king bed up front, and 4 opposing hydraulic slides in the main living area, with a ton of Lippert components throughout. Our Montana was to be our last RV purchase, so we ordered it loaded with all the goodies. In 6 years, nothing has failed on our 5th wheel, which is why we went back to Keystone for our Montana after having a Keystone Springdale travel trailer for 8 years with zero problems. Montana is the #! selling 5th wheel for so many years for a good reason, they don't fail. Keystone has Montana High Country 5th wheels which are lighter than the traditional Montana and are 3/4 ton towable, and a step up from their Cougar line. Check out those Montana High Country units. I think you'll be surprised at the build quality and the many floorplans available. Have fun while finding the perfect 5th wheel you will enjoy for many years!
So Val, just curious, you say you don't like to cook much while camping, then why are you so concerned with the kitchen space? I understand wanting a lot of the other things on your list, but didn't understand that. Also question is this the 1st 5th wheel sporttrek out, is it a 2024 or 2025?
@@Manlilow Hey great observation! I guess I’m complicated in that when we take the RV to “vacation” I don’t like to cook a lot so we can enjoy being out and about and try all the local eateries. But I LOVE to cook, and when we go to places like State Parks or book traditional style camping sites, we actually do bring fun recipes to fix over the fire and things. And we’ll make big breakfasts we don’t normally make at home. We’re actually heading to one of those types of trips coming up! Got a few fire recipes I’ve been wanting to try! So it’s still important to me to have some counter space to work with. I believe the new Sportrek 5th wheels are 2024’s.
Thanks, I like this channel, you and Jarrett tell like it is. Can't wait to keep following your adventures. Jarrett, sorry we don't have great roads in Tenn, but I like not having state income taxes.
Not to familiar with Alliance, but many campers with the same floor plans were less $$ than my Brinkley. What I paid for was the tires, Axles, the way they did their wiring and plumbing, the standard solar panel and the 18,000 BTU Chill Cube AC unit that I can run on my 2200W Honda generator. Used to have to use 2 generators that size to get half the cold air. I was more interested in reliability. After spending time time in and under it doing my modifications, the fit and finish is by far the best I've been around.
We bought the Brinkley simply because of fit and finish and customer service. Yes it has the electronics but no touch screen! It has a ton of outlets and usb outlets too. I would say it’s not 3/4 ton towable. We just weighed ours with our F350 and we have some room but not as much as I thought. Good luck!
We bought a 2020, pre COVID reflection 31 mb fifth wheel that has 3 schwintek slides. We have used it a lot and knock on wood they have never missed a beat. Lucky maybe, but I understand you being weary of them. Good luck in your search they all looked nice. I would check my truck payload and pin weights of those rigs. I’m not the tow police or an online expert so please don’t take that negative. Looking forward to seeing your new rig when you get it. You guys have become one of our favorite channels. Safe travels
Check the pin weight on the fifth wheels! It’s as important as GVWR. You have to remember that you’ll have the added weight of a 5th wheel hitch, plus passengers & any other cargo, + your pin weight, vs cargo capacity on the sticker in the door jamb of your 3/4 ton truck. Just make sure it’s doable! Best wishes & happy shopping!
We bought an Alliance 292RL in March. Nice rig, warranted for full-time use. I had to replace a GFCI plug, and Alliance sent me a check within days of being presented with the receipt.
@@Tom-Fisherman I didn't want a fifth wheel.
We had Alliance 370 FB. Loved it. We downgraded to Alliance 292RL. We love it also
I just got a Jayco Eagle and the amount of power outlets with usb charge ports in this RV is crazy! Everywhere you look is an outlet. Super nice!
TJ has mastered the salesman's art of a non-committal answer.
I also think the Waggs unit would be great for you. I don't think Jarrett's truck is up to the task however.
Good hunting.
@RamblinRoadies if you like white knuckles pull a 5th wheel with a 3/4 ton truck.
We purchased a 2023 340RL 13 months ago, it has been nearly flawless. We go at a minimum of every month, no matter what the weather is doing. We have seen 115 degrees down to single digits, the 340 has worked perfectly.
The front slide is a Schwintech and has not had an issue. The bathroom IS AVAILABLE with the bedroom in.
The folks at Alliance are awesome and the quality is quite good. You will really enjoy the 340!
In 2021 we drove from north Texas and bought our new Lance 1172 truck camper from Bankston Motorhomes at Huntsville, Alabama. We had an issue with the manufacturer and Bankston bent over backward to help us get it rectified. We highly recommend their dealership!
We had narrowed our search to the 340RL and the 32RSL by Alliance, the deciding factor for us was the access to the front, the 340 blocked the entry to the front of the trailer with the slide in. Making bathroom breaks a bit difficult.
Agree with the other comments about the Waggs Unit. That is a sweet deal for everything you would get.
Slideouts with plumbing are a no for me. I am also leary of "3/4 towable" claims.
I love the quality of Alliance. If we could afford the tow vehicle to go with it, we'd have one.❤ Best wishes on a great one for y'all. Happy trails!❤🙏
I agree. We have a motorhome with good size windows and the A/C works really hard to keep it cool inside during the day. We have to keep the windows covered depending on which side the sun is shining on each site we are able to get into.
Look at Jarrett being a passenger princess. Lol
@@Lewman78 😂
We are biased right now with Alliance and looking for our next fifth wheel in the Paradigm family.
We do love our Alliance Avenue 33RKS which meets most of your wants list with the rear kitchen, outdoor kitchen, and auto leveling. ;-)
If you guys would consider used, WAYWARD WAGGS are selling their Alliance (exactly the one you saw) at a wonderful price, below your budget with a fantastic solar set up. They are in AL.
My vote.
Wayward Waggs rig is so decked out too, but you'd need a 1 ton for sure! We vote Alliance!
We are in this process as well. You make a good point about the frame manufactures - the bad thing is is really narrows down your choices!
Northwoods certified off-road chassis ..
We just put the Sport Trek on our list to look at, when we get ready. I love it! I wasn’t crazy about the closet option.
Thank you for mentioning the outlets. It CAN be an issue.
Only concern I would have is the Salesmans 3/4 ton towable on the Sporttrek rear kitchen. Looks like dry pin weight is 2200. I have a 3/4 with payload package which gives me 3158 in total payload. Per Ford my max pin weight is 2054. It’s just something to consider is all.
I love the rear kitchen floor plan on the Sportrek however I would do your homework on whether your 3/4 ton can safely tow it. You will be surprise it might not be enough truck for the payload, weight wise you are probably fine it’s the payload you also have to watch. We have a 1 ton diesel and have a 32RLS Alliance Avenue and we are only 150lbs within our payload limit. We were very surprised when we had ours weighed. You will not only want to keep the weight in mind but also the payload when shopping. Enjoyed your video and happy shopping 😊
Sliding windows are a must😎 Brinkley is a NO BECAUSE OF THE WINDOWS…….. Cougar misses because of cable slides are a deal breaker🥴 Steps must be on camp side for access to bath and bed on dry nights.
This was a really great video! I liked the checklists prior to the tours, checking off preferences as you went along, and then the conversation in the truck on the way home. The conversation felt very real and natural between the two of you, and we were along for the ride. 😊 Except for that couch situation, I liked the Sporttrek too. Ambassadors soon? 😉
We've love our Alliance 340RD. Best trailer we have ever owned
thanks for showing different options than what most youtubers show! you really need to add Oklahoma to your state that you stayed in. Oklahoma may surprise you! Tulsa has so great barbecue
I need a pantry. The one problem with the giant windows is the heat!
Just a reminder that the Hershey RV show is coming up in a few months, so maybe check it out so that you can see all the units at one stop.
I'd take the Sporttrek as well! The Venture outdoor kitchen "Campfire Cafe" is AWESOME with the TV and all! I would definitely NOT take a Lippert Schwintek or a BAL Accuslide cable slide, but I would take the BAL exact cable slide for smaller slides & thru frame (rack & pinion) for larger slides.
We went Brinkley 3100, you can get it really close to your price range. Bankston would not get close to the price other dealers were offering. The Z3100 is going to be probably over weight for most 3/4 tons, pin weight loaded is 2800ish.
Mines been great, and the one issue I had they let me use an independent shop, and was handled quickly.
I’ll agree, Lippert is the weak link, but it is hard to avoid them.
Check out Rockwood. We’ve had two GDs and made a switch. We have been very pleased. 😊
Just saw the 353VIK at Dallas Southwest RV Supershow a week ago and loved it. Definitely want a BAL frame. Kitchen was a little small and needs a window behind the cooktop, but really liked the coffee bar/pantry configuration.
@@RoadieWingZZ
Yeah we thought the same about the window, but great model and lots to love about it!!
Schwintek is a hit or miss system I don’t like them but sometimes you have make concessions. When my Schwintek fails. I’m replacing it with the Vroom system
We spent 2 years looking with almost the same list you have including the frame. We just decided on 2024 East to West Blackthorn, price under your budget this time of year. It's the best decision we ever made.
We bought a 2024 Alliance 340RL and love it!! Check around on price… we got ours for $89000. Full body paint will add about $12000+, really nice I think but to me not worth it. Good luck, great channel!!! Take care
I bought the Alliance Paradigm 380 MP because we needed space for grand kids. I don't like the longer size, but spending that much money I want space for everyone. Go big or go home. I pick it up this Friday.
Put rack and pinion slides on your list...most reliable slides
Jarrett - you should spend some time reading the forums for each manufacturer you are looking at. We have 2018 Montana 3921FB. Small bedroom slide is Schwintek and big LR slides are Lippert hydraulic. Leveling is Lippert Hydraulic. No issues. I keep the Schwintek lubricated with teflon spray, tracks clean and baby powder on the seals (reduced friction for any slide) and have had no issues. I would not want a big slide using Schwintek mechanism. When you were looking at the Cougar I told Debbie it would fall apart 6 months after you bought it. Our 04 Fleetwood Southwind motorhome has hydraulic slides and levelers by Power Gear (Owned by Lippert). 20 yrs old and they work like clockwork.
While a rear kitchen is nice, remember that part of the 5th wheel bounces the most when towing. I’ve talked to a few owners of GD rear kitchen models and they are constantly replacing broken items in cabinets
Good luck with your decision. You have the experience to get the things you believe to be important.
If it were me I would seriously consider an Arctic Fox or Outdoors RV . They are better made . They build their own chassis in house and have them third party certified. We were in Idaho Falls 2 weeks ago and went to Bish’s RV and got to see an Arctic Fox in the flesh . When we retire we are buying one . The quality is top notch .
The ORV is the way to go!
Have you checked out KZ trailers, Cruisin with the Carsons did a review on the one he just bought seems to be a good trailer
Very pleased with our choice. Very solid unit.
By the way, you can replace the struts under the mattress with stronger ones that you can lift on your own and will keep the bed up. I did it on mine.
And definitely agree the Shintech slides are ridiculous. We have been fighting ours for a year now trying to get it fixed.
We have a Rockwood 30 foot fifth wheel now, looking to get a 37 foot fifth wheel leading towards the Cedar Creek ,you mentioned that you had a Cedar Creek? I was wondering why you’re not considering that again?
Sounds like your gonna be hand building your new 5th wheel..
I bought a northwoods nash brand new 10 years ago.. not a single issue , the shwintek slides haven't been a problem either 🤷♂️
Alliance has a beautiful one with a rear kitchen
Hey Guys... look at this 5th wheel. Jayco North Point 377RLBH. It clicks almost all both your boxes. All the best!!
I would love to own a Brinkley but it is not in my budget. I love the lighter interior colors! Nothing over 35 feet for us. Happy Hunting! Ty for sharing.
Maybe look at an Northwood Arctic Fox. You really don't see tons of reviews on them. They build their own frames.
Dark wood with crank out windows 🥴
@davidmccartney7577 their not crank out windows since like 20 years ago, and they have several color options.. mines 10 years old now and I'm still impressed with the quality of the construction, haven't had a single problem except for 1 blown speaker
@@Liimpy I know but they don’t open enough for a cross breeze. These are what’s in our present MH. Alliance and GD checks most of our boxes with Alliance hitting 9 out of 10.
Been looking for about 18 months, ordered a F450 in June have been very interested in the SportTrek 354 bunk model, but looking at both Brinkley and Alliance found a used Alliance 382RK really looking at it seriously. I appreciate the watch Val was putting her input in, Good luck y’all. Jarrod you can buy a Z3100 for 85k check with Hank Rives at Three Way Campers in Marietta, GA
Hey guys! Just came across you all yesterday with your video on Hilton Head National and we just booked for next year!
You guys do a good job. Good insight and not annoying like some!
Was that an OSU sticker in your side window!?!
We have the alliance 295 mk and love it. No outdoor kitchen. I think you can get one for low 80 range. My husband fell in love with the windows. Agree with Jarod on the slides you want hydraulic for the main slides.
Offer 50% off of MSRP. It’s a Buyers market. If you need additional sleeping space, pack a tent.
I have not looked at a Sporttrek. After a 18 months of research I keep coming back to Brinkley. I just feel the build and fit and finish is far and above anything else. The first thing I look at is the drawers as that tells a story. Real wood and dovetail. Although the price is more than I want to pay. Also their customer service is top notch. I plan on purchasing in December and will continue the search. Our must haves are similar to yours. We currently have a F250 SD and hope I don’t have to upgrade. Thanks for sharing. I 100% agree about the price if you have to buy another truck then class A is on the list. What slide mechanism? Schwintec is a no go as well as the BAL cable slide for me.
@@mikewadams1
Yeah, we feel the same. If price wasn’t in play, Brinkley & Alliance are both definitely top contenders for us.
My trading-in-next-Friday-on-a-Brinkley Ember RV has the BAL frame and Exact Slide cable slideout. I had to make a tiny adjustment on the slide cable when new, but some people have told me I may suffer from being a perfectionist :). The slide mechanisms on the Brinkley are Lippert's replacement of their Schwintek slides.
We have 7 kids 😂. We’re done! Only 5 travel anymore. We’re in a 41 Atlas 5th wheel and works great. We’re out of Nashville, would love to meet up, love your channel!
So we've owned a sports track..venture for 3 yrs..we really like the storage..and layout
The outside kitchen was a must have for me
VRK … Vals rear kitchen! Love that. Honestly I’m not in love with the 5th wheel, i prefer the 272vrk still but thanks for the video
You should look at the front kitchen models….much more space than the rear kitchen… look at the .riverstone front kitchen.
I think you’d like the keystone sprinter 30RL. And it’s up the street at Triple H Rv in Huntsville. Check it out.
We have a Ford F250 with the 7.3L gas V8, with a 3034 payload rating. We're considering upgrading our mid-sized TT to a
I loved your video. I just found your channel and subscribed. I can't wait to see what you pick. Personally I don't know enough about fifth wheels to voice an opinion. My wife and I live in South West Florida. We have a Class A diesel pusher. We only part time, but we absolutely love RV's.
Wayward Waggs selling their Alliance 340RL for $65K, if it’s still available. It has over $20K of upgrades too.
@@rickphillips4966
Oh we’ve seen it and considered it! lol
I could put Jarrett up there where Scout slept! 😜
Cougar stopped using Schwintek slides in the fall of 2023
Lippert makes so many things for RVs that I honestly don't think it's possible to buy a TT or 5th wheel that doesn't have something made by Lippert. I'm not sure why you kept mentioning wanting an American made frame. Lippert gets their steel and makes their frames right in Indiana. With that said, is Lippert perfect? Not by a long shot. However, I will say that I believe a lot of the issues going on with frames right now, is manufacturer(s) under designing frame they intend to use with the structure, and that "time is money" corporate mentality has severely reduced the QA on builds, especially from some manufacturers; I won't say names, but I'm sure you get what I'm talking about.
Some other things to consider that you didn't mention. What about plumbing? PEX is going to be the bulk of the plumbing, but if they used flexible tubing, did they use the correct type of fittings to making that transition? Connecting flexible to a PEX fitting will almost surely result in leaks.
What about the counter tops? The kitchens all looked like solid surface, but often times you will find that they saved a few bucks in the bathroom by using thermofoil on MDF, which doesn't react well to getting wet.
Same with the cabinets. Are they at least lumber core on the frames and real wood doors/drawers, or again, just a veneer over MDF? Are the larger drawers reinforced to actually be able to use that space without the bottom falling out.
I get it. You have a budget, but you may want to check more closely on where the manufacturer saved on the build costs to bring it in at that price point.
Either the Alliance or Brinkley
We fell in love with a Montana 3231CK 2024
@@paulhughes5979
We like the Montanas too!! Nice rigs!
We had a rear kitchen fifth wheel. Things break in the shelves when travelling down the road if you don't have independant suspension. Even broke some Corel plates.
Sales dude seemed cool. Good video!
check the KZ Durango Gold series
Here here. Very pleased with ours.
So excited y’all came to Huntsville!!!
@ourenextadventurejvh you need to check out the 2025 Alliance 5th wheel that is a rear kitchen. @firmlyunbound did a video and it had a lot of what you wanted. I think it is the Paradigm, Lots of options and ticked so many of your boxes. I also like that they are independently owned as opposed to under the umbrella. One reason we chose an Intech. 2 trifold sofas, but it may be over your length. It is a bath and a half. What do you think?
I guess I don’t get the fifth wheel for the cost of rig + truck. We moved to a Class C towing a jeep and love it. If I had no economic restrictions I’d look at the Super C. Good luck. I do love the storage in Fifth Wheel! 👍🤔😎😂
Pay for what you get, that will always be true in any product. We full time in our 3610
This video helped me to subscribe, well done. I’m considering the Venture 354VBH, the frame design using Huck fasteners rather than welds is a major sales point. I have engineering experience with the Huck bolts and am sold on that fastenting design. Since you have a Venture, what are your overall thoughts? I currently have a ‘21 Jayco 280RSOK, lots of maintenance. Like you both, I like the Brinkley, but I don’t have a bottomless wallet. Has your Venture been reliable? Thanks for your time putting this information out there.
My wife wont look at one without a seat in the shower to put her foot on to shavet her legs. Everyone is different! Lol
@@mikebaker3036
lol Yeah I just prefer the flip down option for that instead of having that rounded fixed piece taking up walkable move-around space.
You need to do a lot more research about what is 3/4 ton towable. Your payload capacity of your truck will determine that more than the weight of the trailer. Look at the pin weight and remember that you have to add your your hitch and everything to your truck to the payload. It adds up quickly.
I was looking at the Alliance models this week a bit pricey for weekend camping. The Sportex looked great especially for the price point. We have 5 sons and 13 grandchildren. I may ride to Huntsville and check them out and get some Big Bobs bbq while I’m there. Lol
Cougar Is Actually might be Lighter some R. Look for A Brinkley on Clearance.
Keep in mind about the refrigerator when the slides are in, can you access the refrigerator? Just a thought..
We recently narrowed our search down to a Brinkley and Alliance. We ended up choosing a Brinkley, because it was more premium and ironically less money. You said the roads in Tennessee are bad. Where in TN are you talking about and where are you comparing it to? Of course the roads in and around city centers are not going to be great, but that's common for all/most cities. I have driven in quite a few states and our roads in Tennessee are great! We recently drove our RV through South Carolina and those roads are horrendous.
Cargo capacity is comparatively low on the Sporttrek 5th-wheels at roughly 1,700 lbs. Probably not as big a deal for part-timers though unless planning to load it up with solar/lithium/generator....
Brinkley just had a recall for over 3100 units Z models 5th Wheel
Alliance
Just curious is there any particular reason you’re wanting the BAL frame with the HUK fastener? The reason I ask is I have a 2020 Arctic Wolf 3660 and that is what it has.
Wife & I are shopping like you & glad we started when we did. Out of the 10 Youtbers we follow everyone has a different brand. We cannot believe how many people are ok with the amount of repairs needed & some are very expensive. Lippert is catching hell for GD engineered nightmare, not all frames are made the same. So far Alliance & Brinkley owners have the least repairs we've seen. Both brands are not owned by investors & build with QUALITY in mind over quantity. I'd rather spend more up front than buy a lower priced rig only to become a RV Repair Tech later.
How can you say that lippert frames aren't American made? They are made in Indiana, I was just past one of their factories this past week.
Keystone cougar is a great mid priced RV, you just need to spend some time on the Internet and search through the reviews on all rv's in the price range.
If the salesman says he thinks a 3/4 ton truck could pull the Sporttrek, I would be concerned. Have to look at pin weight as well. I would check and upgrade to a Ford one-ton w/ diesel.
I really liked the alliance, I bet y’all could get it under 100 grand.
Me and my husband are shopping..we own a sports track..looking at alliance/brinkley
Lucky to get a Dischwasher
The only 1-Has Rear Kitchen with side PATIO IS BRINKLEY.
Lippert is American made…so not sure what you’re getting at there.
Just purchased a 2024 puma and I was thrown off that it has the residual fabric in the jackknife sofa and dinette.
When I look at 5th Wheels I look for storage inside and out. Big and roomy. I really want a drivable one though but Super C's are so expensive
You made the mistake I did on my first RV and that you a limited by your truck you currently own.
Have you thought about looking at a used rv?
All very nice RVs, guys, but purchase for yourselves, not your kids. Before you know it, they will not want to go camping with you any longer, so get something the two of you like. We upsized from a 29 foot travel trailer to a 39 foot Montana 5th wheel back in 2018, and we love it. It has a king sized sofa bed in the rear and we've used it only once when family came with us. It is really a couples coach with all the luxury for just my wife and myself. Our Montana has one Schwintech electric slide for the king bed up front, and 4 opposing hydraulic slides in the main living area, with a ton of Lippert components throughout. Our Montana was to be our last RV purchase, so we ordered it loaded with all the goodies. In 6 years, nothing has failed on our 5th wheel, which is why we went back to Keystone for our Montana after having a Keystone Springdale travel trailer for 8 years with zero problems. Montana is the #! selling 5th wheel for so many years for a good reason, they don't fail. Keystone has Montana High Country 5th wheels which are lighter than the traditional Montana and are 3/4 ton towable, and a step up from their Cougar line. Check out those Montana High Country units. I think you'll be surprised at the build quality and the many floorplans available. Have fun while finding the perfect 5th wheel you will enjoy for many years!
@@philsalsbery9994
We do really like the Montanas! One coming up in our Hershey RV show content soon! Thank so much for the comment ☺️
So Val, just curious, you say you don't like to cook much while camping, then why are you so concerned with the kitchen space? I understand wanting a lot of the other things on your list, but didn't understand that. Also question is this the 1st 5th wheel sporttrek out, is it a 2024 or 2025?
@@Manlilow
Hey great observation! I guess I’m complicated in that when we take the RV to “vacation” I don’t like to cook a lot so we can enjoy being out and about and try all the local eateries.
But I LOVE to cook, and when we go to places like State Parks or book traditional style camping sites, we actually do bring fun recipes to fix over the fire and things. And we’ll make big breakfasts we don’t normally make at home.
We’re actually heading to one of those types of trips coming up! Got a few fire recipes I’ve been wanting to try! So it’s still important to me to have some counter space to work with.
I believe the new Sportrek 5th wheels are 2024’s.
Thanks, I like this channel, you and Jarrett tell like it is. Can't wait to keep following your adventures. Jarrett, sorry we don't have great roads in Tenn, but I like not having state income taxes.
I just bought the vik trailer
Have you considered a front living room model?