I have been researching an LD purchase for about three years. Tomorrow morning my brother in law and I are driving more than six hours to see the floorplan, year, etc, I have been seeking.
Here is what I would appreciate advice on:
1) A link to the 2001 options sheet (I spent hours plus and cannot locate here)
2) Seatbelt locations/quantity - I do understand seatbelts other than the cabs are truly not "safe"
3) I have read the awesome buyer's checklist, but appreciate any other advice
This is a 2001, 26.5 RB with 30k original miles being sold private party in another state.
Thank you for your time in advance. I will read all responses. I have rented multiple rigs over the last 4 years (dp A, class C short and long) and have done much research. However, there is nothing like the knowledge of many owners.
I have been researching an LD purchase for about three years. Tomorrow morning my brother in law and I are driving more than six hours to see the floorplan, year, etc, I have been seeking.
Here is what I would appreciate advice on:
1) A link to the 2001 options sheet (I spent hours plus and cannot locate here)
2) Seatbelt locations/quantity - I do understand seatbelts other than the cabs are truly not "safe"
3) I have read the awesome buyer's checklist, but appreciate any other advice
This is a 2001, 26.5 RB with 30k original miles being sold private party in another state.
Thank you for your time in advance. I will read all responses. I have rented multiple rigs over the last 4 years (dp A, class C short and long) and have done much research. However, there is nothing like the knowledge of many owners.
Clinton, I just emailed you the 2001 spec sheets. Sent to your email of record on this forum. Please let me know if you get it.
Chris
Clinton, I just emailed you the 2001 spec sheets. Sent to your email of record on this forum. Please let me know if you get it.
Chris
THANK YOU, Chris! Received and very appreciated!!!
This one?
https://www.rvtrader.com/listing/2001-Lazy-Daze-26.5-REAR-BATH-5011432122
One red flag in the short and non-descriptive ad (to me) is the "suspensions replaced" remark; I would definitely want to know exactly what was replaced and why.
You noted that you had read the checklist of what to look for; if you didn't already plan on taking a print out of the checklist with you, it's a good idea to do so. There's no such thing as a too-thorough inspection. ;)
Good luck.
This one?
https://www.rvtrader.com/listing/2001-Lazy-Daze-26.5-REAR-BATH-5011432122
One red flag in the short and non-descriptive ad (to me) is the "suspensions replaced" remark; I would definitely want to know exactly what was replaced and why.
You noted that you had read the checklist of what to look for; if you didn't already plan on taking a print out of the checklist with you, it's a good idea to do so. There's no such thing as a too-thorough inspection. ;)
Good luck.
Joan, this is an awesome flag that I glanced right past. Thanks you! Yes - I have that checklist printed and in hand. I looked up Certified RV inspectors and see they are many miles away in San Diego. Thank you again!!
Since this is not an LDOF listing, I’ll comment on price. If you decide to purchase it, I would offer substantially less than the asking price. But that’s just me! ;)
Since this is not an LDOF listing, I’ll comment on price. If you decide to purchase it, I would offer substantially less than the asking price. But that’s just me! ;)
HiLola:
Appreciate the pricing feedback. Did you have a high/low figure in mind? Any details are appreciate. Thanks!
HiLola:
Appreciate the pricing feedback. Did you have a high/low figure in mind? Any details are appreciate. Thanks!
Did you check out this used LD asking price doc? Lazy Daze Asking Prices - 2019 Version (https://www.lazydazeowners.com/index.php?topic=33131.0) Remember, it's just a guideline.
Another way to inspect a used LD is to ask to see the operating manual and then go through the index item by item, checking the LD for the item's condition.
Chris
Just my 2 cents, but I wouldn't travel that far if I wasn't willing to pay at least close to what they are asking.
I have friends who are in the market for a non-LD class C. I'm amazed at the prices, and they are sometimes being sold before my friend can see them. Demand (and prices) are pretty high right now.
That RV was born in 2001 and is now an independent adult. In other words, expect some maintenance issues - expected and otherwise. Just like you would with a 19 year old truck or a 19 year old house (a RV is both!).
Rich
'03 MB in NC
HiLola:
Appreciate the pricing feedback. Did you have a high/low figure in mind? Any details are appreciate. Thanks!
Not particularly, just seems a bit overpriced to me for an almost 20 year old rig but perhaps that's the present market. Since you are driving that far, you may also want to take a look at this one in nearby Seal Beach. It's two years younger for a similar price. A little more mileage but that is probably a good thing on a RV of that age:
https://www.rvtrader.com/listing/2003-Lazy-Daze-26.5-REAR-BATH-5013114864
Regarding Rich's comment above, I would not tell the sellers where you are coming from. I, as a seller, would take the distance you traveled in consideration, thinking that you are more likely to pay my asking price since you drove from that far away. Of course, the Arizona license plate I assume you have on your car might give you away. Anyway, best of luck!
Did you check out this used LD asking price doc? Lazy Daze Asking Prices - 2019 Version (https://www.lazydazeowners.com/index.php?topic=33131.0) Remember, it's just a guideline.
Another way to inspect a used LD is to ask to see the operating manual and then go through the index item by item, checking the LD for the item's condition.
Chris
Chris:
Indeed I did.actually viewed it right before posting. Thank you for this.
Just my 2 cents, but I wouldn't travel that far if I wasn't willing to pay at least close to what they are asking.
I have friends who are in the market for a non-LD class C. I'm amazed at the prices, and they are sometimes being sold before my friend can see them. Demand (and prices) are pretty high right now.
That RV was born in 2001 and is now an independent adult. In other words, expect some maintenance issues - expected and otherwise. Just like you would with a 19 year old truck or a 19 year old house (a RV is both!).
Rich
'03 MB in NC
Rich:
Just my 2 cents, but I wouldn't travel that far if I wasn't willing to pay at least close to what they are asking.
I have friends who are in the market for a non-LD class C. I'm amazed at the prices, and they are sometimes being sold before my friend can see them. Demand (and prices) are pretty high right now.
That RV was born in 2001 and is now an independent adult. In other words, expect some maintenance issues - expected and otherwise. Just like you would with a 19 year old truck or a 19 year old house (a RV is both!).
Rich
'03 MB in NC
Rich:
I am prepared IF the rig checks out. In the years I have researched in AZ, this condition (hopefully) in this floorplan just never appear. Really, its the floorplan that has been very tough to attain. I have come to the point of paying a premium to check all the boxes which this rig truly does. I also have inquired on other rigs over the years and see this price as in the ballpark. However, if it does not check out, I am turning around!
Thanks for the advice, sir.
Did you check out this used LD asking price doc? Lazy Daze Asking Prices - 2019 Version (https://www.lazydazeowners.com/index.php?topic=33131.0) Remember, it's just a guideline.
Another way to inspect a used LD is to ask to see the operating manual and then go through the index item by item, checking the LD for the item's condition.
Chris
Did you check out this used LD asking price doc? Lazy Daze Asking Prices - 2019 Version (https://www.lazydazeowners.com/index.php?topic=33131.0) Remember, it's just a guideline.
Another way to inspect a used LD is to ask to see the operating manual and then go through the index item by item, checking the LD for the item's condition.
Chris
I did. Thank you. Just this morning. A bit of a higher price and further away with a few more miles and less desired colors. If this one doesn't work and that one is around, may take another trip. The fact it has FIRM vs the MAKE OFFER the current rig of interest had put it further away as well. More or less, this blue rig strengthened the price of the current one.
Thanks again!
The suspension replacement could be the addition of upgraded parts, such as bigger sway bars.
If it required repair work at 28,000 miles, that's a different story, nothing should be worn out at that mileage other than the stock shock absorbers. The front suspension is a tough design and usually lasts for a long time before needing work.
The generator hours are very low, indicating it hasn't been used much, this can be an issue, generators need to be run regularly to stay in good condition. Make sure it and every other appliance works. Ask the owner to turn on the refrigerator ahead of time, it takes a long time for it to cool down. Run the A/C on generator power to verify operation.
Test the operation of the furnace, A/C and water heater.
When looking for LDs built in the 2000's, I would prefer a 2004 or newer to avoid the blown spark plug issue, it can destroy an engine, ask me how I know.
None of the seatbelts in the rear are not considered to be as safe as the front seats, the sideway sitting positions and lack of headrests can lead to severe injuries or death in a bad crash. Few, if any RVs have safe seating in the rear. The front seats in a E450 are required to pass the Federal Crash regulations, none of the other seats do.
The biggest problem area in a 2001 RB is the rear wall, the site of much rot in older models.
The roof seams and all the windows should have been resealed by this age. Many end caps have needed resealing at this age too.
An improperly installed spare tire holder has also been a source of leaks in older models.
The bottom of the rear wall can be checked for rot from under the rig, poking at the bottom of the wall with an ice pick, concentrating on the corners, where rot is most commonly found.
Any soft wood is a sign of rot. Intact wood will not be damaged by probing. Rot repair is very expensive and difficult to repair.
Check the age of the batteries and especially the date the tires were manufactured, they are aged out at 5-6 years.
A new set can cost up to $2000 if all seven tires need replacement.
Coach batteries last 4-8 years.
Happy hunting
Larry
The suspension replacement could be the addition of upgraded parts, such as bigger sway bars.
If it required repair work at 28,000 miles, that's a different story, nothing should be worn out at that mileage other than the stock shock absorbers. The front suspension is a tough design and usually lasts for a long time before needing work.
The generator hours are very low, indicating it hasn't been used much, this can be an issue, generators need to be run regularly to stay in good condition. Make sure it and every other appliance works. Ask the owner to turn on the refrigerator ahead of time, it takes a long time for it to cool down. Run the A/C on generator power to verify operation.
Test the operation of the furnace, A/C and water heater.
When looking for LDs built in the 2000's, I would prefer a 2004 or newer to avoid the blown spark plug issue, it can destroy an engine, ask me how I know.
None of the seatbelts in the rear are not considered to be as safe as the front seats, the sideway sitting positions and lack of headrests can lead to severe injuries or death in a bad crash. Few, if any RVs have safe seating in the rear. The front seats in a E450 are required to pass the Federal Crash regulations, none of the other seats do.
The biggest problem area in a 2001 RB is the rear wall, the site of much rot in older models.
The roof seams and all the windows should have been resealed by this age. Many end caps have needed resealing at this age too.
An improperly installed spare tire holder has also been a source of leaks in older models.
The bottom of the rear wall can be checked for rot from under the rig, poking at the bottom of the wall with an ice pick, concentrating on the corners, where rot is most commonly found.
Any soft wood is a sign of rot. Intact wood will not be damaged by probing. Rot repair is very expensive and difficult to repair.
Check the age of the batteries and especially the date the tires were manufactured, they are aged out at 5-6 years.
A new set can cost up to $2000 if all seven tires need replacement.
Coach batteries last 4-8 years.
Happy hunting
Larry
Larry,
Appreciate the multiple points, sir. I am very sensitive to the rot and water damage. It is really what turned me on to LDs. And those pesky spark plugs I have read about on here... How do you know about them, Larry 😁? I got a response from the seller on the suspension: "We replaced the suspensions in the back. Just maintenance, rides better"
I will get under there and check it out. The seller seems pretty particular. Had an expensive radio put in. Rarely used generator as always connected at sites and never boondocked. First/previous owner always took to Mammoth I guess. Owner did disclose house batteries need replacement soon. Tires less than one year old. Will check tire codes.
Thanks Larry!!! 👍
If the seller is referring to *shocks* when he says “suspensions”, why not just say that? JMO, but I would pay close attention to the checklist items and Larry’s points and inspect every part of this rig very carefully.
"If the seller is referring to *shocks* when he says "suspensions", why not just say that? JMO, but I would pay close attention to the checklist items and Larry's points and inspect every part of this rig very carefully. "
Sometimes when English is not one's first language, words that are not quite right creep into a conversation or a written piece. This also happens to people whose first language IS English, but the right word escapes them momentarily. This happens to me sometimes, and I think I know a lot of words until one of them eludes me entirely!
Virtual hugs,
Judie
Hi, Looks like you're in the Phoenix area. Hard to believe you've been looking for three years. I see LDs come up for sale somewhat often in the Phoenix area or nearby. I searched for about 2 months before I found mine. Because of the intense heat be sure to check the components on the roof - vents, escape hatch, AC cover. I ended up replacing all of them due to deterioration from the sun. Also, if its been sitting for awhile the generator will most likely be non-functioning. I had to replace my carb, filter and pump before it would work. Batteries were also totally void of water.
Good luck.
Larry,
Appreciate the multiple points, sir. I am very sensitive to the rot and water damage. It is really what turned me on to LDs. And those pesky spark plugs I have read about on here... How do you know about them, Larry 😁? I got a response from the seller on the suspension: "We replaced the suspensions in the back. Just maintenance, rides better
2003 and earlier E450's V10 engines had 4-thread spark plug holes and were not torque tightly enough. This resulted in many of these engine spitting out spark plugs, tearing the threads out of the head at the same time. Some can be repaired for a few hundred dollars or the engine can be badly damaged and require replacement.
Our 2003 LD spit a plug and needed a new engine, $8000 for a Ford certified remanufactured engine. Ouch!
The very end of the 2003 E450 run changed over to the new, 7-thread heads, I know of no easy way to determine which head an engine has without removing a spark plug, an involved project.
If buying a pre-2004 LD, changing the spark plugs and setting them to the new, higher torque would be at the top of my 'to do' list'.
The rear suspension should need no maintenance at 28,000 miles, the owner may have changed shocks or sway bars, I would enquire and find out exactly what was done.
Larry
I would like to thank Larry, Chris and ALL the others that took time to weigh in and provide advice. We will see what tomorrow and the weekend holds. If it is the right rig, I look forward to contributing to this fantastic group in the posts. Really a stellar and supportive group.
Getting up at 3am. Yikes!
- Clinton
If you are looking at the one Joan posted a link to, Pay very close attention to the window area adjacent to the toilet sprayer. There appears to be something strange going on in the area. Also check the back ladder area something doesn't look right in the photo.
Jon
Hi Jon, well I couldn't see anything amiss in the window area near the sprayer. I'd have to see it in person. Definitely the ladder was hit by something. I checked on this once and an entire ladder (bottom part) was under $200. More interesting would be the condition of the attaching screws and wood area underneath. RonB
Well, my brother in law enjoyed our turn around journey To Burbank yesterday. Out at 3am and back by 9pm while him and I lightly worked remotely.
The bottom line is that the rig had water intrusion at the over cab. Truly sad as the rig was truly a time capsule otherwise. The other rig on Trader was email only which I did day of, but with no response. Tough to see something quickly with no phone number.
More importantly, it made me realize that I should go a different route in my RV search. For my family a travel trailer may be the way to go. This is where I am going to focus my search. I know the build quality of most is much, much lower than LD. The trick is now finding one that will sleep 5 while being pulled by Honda mini van. I may have made my search more difficult but will focus around Phoenix only. Looking at units that do not surpass 3500 GVW. Also highly considering Hensley Hitch.
Thank you all once again. Keep supporting this invaluable network of LD owners and just plain, good people 🙂.
Sorry the LD didn't work out, but good that you caught the water damage!
Re: finding a trailer that will "sleep 5" that can be towed with a Honda Odyssey. This article may provide some starter information on what can be safely towed:
How Much Can A Honda Odyssey Tow? | letstowthat.com (http://letstowthat.com/honda-odyssey-towing-capacities/)
I hope that you will do extensive research on weights and capacities of the trailer and the real life towing capacity of the Honda before making a decision. IMO, one can't have "too much truck", and a poor match of tow vehicle and trailer can be disastrous.
YMMV, as always.
A Honda Odyssey isn't really a capable tow vehicle (no knocks - I own 2 Hondas, including a Pilot which is only a slightly better tow vehicle).
Consider a basic pop-up camper. Kids will love to play in the camper - even in the backyard. You won't find more usable bed space for the money or weight. Every trip will still be an adventure.
You can get into one for under $2000 and sell it for almost that when you're done. Take the savings and keep it for a hotel one day when the weather isn't cooperating on a trip.
Kudos for wanting to get your family out camping with a little more comfort. A pop-up is a huge upgrade over a tent.
Rich
'03 MB in NC
I had a tent trailer for a few years; they do offer a lot of space and function for the money, are generally easy to set up, take down, and tow. The "tow vehicle" I had at the time was a 4-cylinder Datsun pickup that handled the small trailer well. A tent trailer is pretty basic and doesn't offer many amenities, but the cost vs. the amount of space and "towability" may make the choice an attractive one.
A suggestion: If a tent trailer is the choice, wheel size makes a difference; bigger wheels are better than little wheels! Be sure that the wheel bearings are well-packed to start with, and expect to check and repack them pretty often, depending on how much the tent trailer is used.
I had a tent trailer for a few years; they do offer a lot of space and function for the money, are generally easy to set up, take down, and tow. The "tow vehicle" I had at the time was a 4-cylinder Datsun pickup that handled the small trailer well. A tent trailer is pretty basic and doesn't offer many amenities, but the cost vs. the amount of space and "towability" may make the choice an attractive one.
A suggestion: If a tent trailer is the choice, wheel size makes a difference; bigger wheels are better than little wheels! Be sure that the wheel bearings are well-packed to start with, and expect to check and repack them pretty often, depending on how much the tent trailer is used.
We started with the same thing....3 kids plus us 2.....pulled with a Mazda van at the time....it worked out great for us....lots of great memories......
I second (third) the idea of a tent trailer for you. Even some of the smaller travel trailers are too much for your tow vehicle. We had one for many years, traveled all over the country with 4 small kids with it, pulled by a Ford Country Sedan station wagon. It was a StarCraft with hard covers on the bunks and 14 inch wheels. I'd probably still have it today, except once we moved to the Pacific Northwest it became a pain to put it away wet most of the time and have to open it up again to dry it out when the rain stopped. The one problem you might have in AZ is the heat. It might be hard to keep it cool enough for you. Ours didn't have an air conditioner, but we were young and that didn't bother us too much. For the amount you would spend on a used LD you could by a really nice new one, or as someone noted, buy used and sell it for what you paid once you buy a better tow vehicle.
Rich - Birch Bay, WA - Former 2000 MB Now Bullet Crossfire 1800RB pulled by a Chevy 2500HD
I agree that a pop-up camper is well worth considering as a first step into RVing.
"Also highly considering Hensley Hitch."
Some thoughts based on my experience with the Hensley's successor:
If you go this route, ProPride (https://www.propridehitch.com) is a better choice. The ProPride hitch was also designed by Jim Hensley, and uses the same basic principles as the old Hensley Arrow, but with a number of improvements. The company making the Hensley Arrow (under license from Jim) didn't want to make changes to the design, so he licensed his new, improved version to ProPride.
The antisway operating principles behind both hitches are solid--that's why I initially put a ProPride on my 27' Airstream. However, these hitches have a number of drawbacks. They are quite expensive (several thousand dollars). They're heavy (about 220 pounds), which means added tongue weight that your Odyssey may not be able to handle. Tongue weight is very important, and charts that tell you "How much you can tow" often fail to discuss it.
The Hensley and ProPride hitches are complicated to set up. Unless your tow vehicle and trailer are lined up and on level ground, they can be a major pain to hitch and unhitch. Don't try boondocking on uneven ground with one of these hitches. I did, and it was not fun.
I eventually switched to an Equal-i-zer hitch (https://www.etrailer.com/Weight-Distribution-Hitch/Equal-i-zer/EQ37101ET.html). For less than half the cost of the ProPride, it has been easy to set up and use, and I haven't experienced any sway problems with my 7,500-pound Airstream, towing with an F-250 pickup. (With my 1,600-pound Trillium fiberglass trailer, which I tow with a Subaru Outback 3.6R, I don't use an antisway or weight-distributing hitch at all--just the normal ball coupler.)
In short, a Hensley or ProPride hitch may be overkill for any small-to-medium-sized trailer that you’re likely to buy. A good strategy is first to find out what your Odyssey can handle, including tongue weight, and choose a trailer based on that. If your tow vehicle is inadequate for your trailer, no hitch will make it safe to use. (I learned this the hard way with my first pickup, an F-150 that handled badly when towing the Airstream, even with weight distribution set to max on my ProPride hitch. I ended up trading in the F-150 for an F-250 a year after I bought it. It was a very expensive mistake.)
Finding water intrusion and walking away made for an 18 hour day well spent. Good move.
Do as much research on Travel Trailers, while keeping an eye out for another LD. A popup in good condition should retain most of its value.
If you see a LD, say hello.
Safe travels and see you down the road.
Joel
We would go the route of pop up or even hybrid except for the fact my wife is not cool with soft sides and the night time animals. I camped with her once in a tent and, oh boy! Scarred for life!
The Odyssey is good for 3500 in the towing area. I believe 500 lbs tongue weight. There are small trailers out there assuming I watch dry weight versus loaded (and where loaded). Transmission cooler and some other measures should keep me in good shape. Thank you for the Equal-I-Zer recommend. They were starting to pull up in my research and now I have a close testimonial.
Take care everyone!
The hunt continues...
We would go the route of pop up or even hybrid except for the fact my wife is not cool with soft sides and the night time animals. I camped with her once in a tent and, oh boy! Scarred for life!
The Odyssey is good for 3500 in the towing area. I believe 500 lbs tongue weight. There are small trailers out there assuming I watch dry weight versus loaded (and where loaded). Transmission cooler and some other measures should keep me in good shape. Thank you for the Equal-I-Zer recommend. They were starting to pull up in my research and now I have a close testimonial.
Take care everyone!
The hunt continues...
Good luck on your search, Clinton. Even though you are moving on to a trailer and not a Lazy Daze, we would be interested in your final selection.
Chris
Clinton, check the placard on your Odyssey's hitch. What I found online was that Odysseys from at least 2007 to 2020 are rated for 350 pounds maximum tongue weight. Believe me, you do not want to exceed that number unless you enjoy having your vehicle wander and "porpoise" every time you go over a bump. Been there, done that. Not a good feeling.
We would go the route of pop up or even hybrid except for the fact my wife is not cool with soft sides and the night time animals. I camped with her once in a tent and, oh boy! Scarred for life!
The hunt continues...
There are a number of hard-sided pop up trailers out there, like Trail Manor, etc. You might google those and see if one would work for you. — Jon
If your Odyssey is like my Pilot (they're built on the same platform), 3500lbs is a generous estimate for a full height trailer. It's a front wheel drive vehicle with unibody construction. Rear wheel drive and body on frame make for a much better tow vehicle.
The pilot and the odyssey also share the same engine. You can tow a heavier boat or pop-up or some other kind of aerodynamic load. A travel trailer is like pushing a barn door through the wind and the engine isn't comfortably up to the task at highway speeds.
Many Pilot and Odyssey owners end up adding air bags to the rear because the tongue weight (typically higher for trailers than boats) causes the rear end to squat. This takes weight off the drive/steering on the front end and can make things feel squirrely. Many owners also end up upgrading brakes/rotors after the stock rotors warp from towing (I have the receipts!).
I hope you find the combo you're looking for. I am not one of those people who thinks you need a F-350 to tow anything safely.
I will caution that I have watched many people jump into towing something at the weight limit of the Pilot/Odyssey platform only to spend a bunch more time and money on aftermarket add-ons in an attempt to make it tow like they wish it would. The hitch is only the beginning....
Rich
'03 MB in NC
Looks like you have some ice cream when you get there! I have a RB and wish I had the duel couches.
My son has one pop-up trailer, and one hard-sided trailer with a pop-out bed area at one end. His wife has a big family, and a few of his workers frequently camp with them, too, so both trailers are usually in use at the same time. He pulls the larger one with a Toyota Tundra. He may have someone else tow the pop-up with one of the work vans from the business.
They bring along a huge canvas topped, net-sided pop up dining tent . . . because . . . Florida !!! This works well for sun shade, unexpected rain showers, and bug deterrent. Did I mention Florida ???
I'd rather have a Lazy Daze !!! ;->
Virtual hugs,
Judie <-- Sierra Vista, Arizona
Adventures of Dorrie Anne | Photographing the West (http://dorrieanne.wordpress.com)
Today: The Lace Tree
*********************************
We would go the route of pop up or even hybrid except for the fact my wife is not cool with soft sides and the night time animals. I camped with her once in a tent and, oh boy! Scarred for life!
The Odyssey is good for 3500 in the towing area. I believe 500 lbs tongue weight. There are small trailers out there assuming I watch dry weight versus loaded (and where loaded). Transmission cooler and some other measures should keep me in good shape. Thank you for the Equal-I-Zer recommend. They were starting to pull up in my research and now I have a close testimonial.
Take care everyone!
The hunt continues...
Understand the concerns with a soft-sided trailer. One of the hybrid trailers might work or, as someone suggested, a collapsible trailer such as the TrailManor. I had a Hi-Lo but they are a bit heavier and would probably be too much weight for your tow vehicle. Agree with Andy that a Hensley hitch, or similar, would be overkill for your needs.
I would suggest upgrading your tow vehicle, if possible, to give you more options.
Best of luck and happy hunting!
"my wife is not cool with soft sides and the night time animals."
I have to admit that I feel the same way.
There are a number of hard-sided pop up trailers out there, like Trail Manor, etc. You might google those and see if one would work for you. — Jon
We saw two this weekend and one was a Trail Manor. I don't think I took a pic of it.
There are a number of hard-sided pop up trailers out there, like Trail Manor, etc. You might google those and see if one would work for you. — Jon
Appreciate all of the comments and advice. The Trail Manor is not one I had discovered, yet. With just under 2600 lbs dry, I now have another option that should tow much better even though it is a little wider than the other trailers I have been looking at.
The hunt continues...
"Kudos for wanting to get your family out camping with a little more comfort. A pop-up is a huge upgrade over a tent. "
If you have two adult drivers, why not have a Lazy Daze and DRIVE the Odyssey from destination to destination? Everyone will be properly seatbelted, and you will have extra storage space whilst also having the pleasures, treasures, and amenities that the Lazy Daze will provide.
Are the kiddies old enough to take turns sleeping in a tent at your campsite?
There is no rule that says a family cannot travel in separately-driven vehicles. NOLA Boy and I have been doing exactly that since 1991, when we got our first Lazy Daze. Our "toad" now is an older (1998) Sportsmobile with a pop top that will sleep four, although neither of us sleeps in there now. We use it as a very comfortable day trip vehicle, and for overnights away from the Lazy Daze.
You can stash a Porta-Potti of some sort and a good-sized cooler, and possibly sports equipment and games in your Odyssey for day trips, and (I assume you have) children will have "room to roam".
In fairness, we DID get it when we were fulltiming in a 40-foot coach, but the idea is the same, and we have continued the practice with our 26-foot Lazy Daze RB.
Virtual hugs,
Judie
Sorry the LD did not work out. I hate to throw any more water on things but, I have heard Honda van transmissions can be a weak area for that vehicle. I have a odyssey and really like it. I had thought about installing a hitch and changed my mind after learning of this weakness area.
Look into Scamp trailers. We have one..
Look into Scamp trailers. We have one..
The OP needs an RV that sleeps five, something most fiberglass trailers do not have the room for.
The ones that do (such as the 21' Escape) need a bigger tow vehicle than a Honda.
Larry
I just find that if you don't have a decent tow vehicle you are asking for troubles. Something like a Suburban or an Expedition then get what ever you want for a trailer. Their gas mileage isn't horrible and you can relax a little while your towing.
Jon
"Kudos for wanting to get your family out camping with a little more comfort. A pop-up is a huge upgrade over a tent. "
If you have two adult drivers, why not have a Lazy Daze and DRIVE the Odyssey from destination to destination? Everyone will be properly seatbelted, and you will have extra storage space whilst also having the pleasures, treasures, and amenities that the Lazy Daze will provide.
Are the kiddies old enough to take turns sleeping in a tent at your campsite?
There is no rule that says a family cannot travel in separately-driven vehicles. NOLA Boy and I have been doing exactly that since 1991, when we got our first Lazy Daze. Our "toad" now is an older (1998) Sportsmobile with a pop top that will sleep four, although neither of us sleeps in there now. We use it as a very comfortable day trip vehicle, and for overnights away from the Lazy Daze.
You can stash a Porta-Potti of some sort and a good-sized cooler, and possibly sports equipment and games in your Odyssey for day trips, and (I assume you have) children will have "room to roam".
In fairness, we DID get it when we were fulltiming in a 40-foot coach, but the idea is the same, and we have continued the practice with our 26-foot Lazy Daze RB.
Virtual hugs,
Judie
Judie, that is an idea I had not considered. What really drew my family to a Class C was the ability to travel together and the conveniences this brought including mom or my oldest sneaking off to use the potty while "in flight". Now that I have been considering travel trailers, the idea of everyone being buckled up correctly seems to be a direction I would like to stay. However, having me drive the class C and mom drive the minivan with the little kids at a minimum would be a step backwards for us in the experience as we would be separated. As far as soft side tents are concerned, momma won't be able to sleep at night :) .
To answer your question, children are 1, 4 and 13.
Appreciate the out of box idea I had not considered. THIS is why I posted. Than you, Judie!
Sorry the LD did not work out. I hate to throw any more water on things but, I have heard Honda van transmissions can be a weak area for that vehicle. I have a odyssey and really like it. I had thought about installing a hitch and changed my mind after learning of this weakness area.
Dave, I think I am back to square one on this. The fact that I see nearly no evidence of anyone successfully towing with an Odyssey gives me great pause. I can find videos of asteroids falling in Russia but much less on Odysseys towing. Thanks for the comment and your thoughts.
I just find that if you don't have a decent tow vehicle you are asking for troubles. Something like a Suburban or an Expedition then get what ever you want for a trailer. Their gas mileage isn't horrible and you can relax a little while your towing.
Jon
Jon, as you can see from my last post/reply, I am getting this feeling. My brother in law and his family who I camp with most of the time have an Expedition EL good for 8800 lbs. I really wanted to pull it off with the van, but I think only a TrailManor with a ridiculously low dry weight would make me feel comfortable to even attempt it. And if it did not work out, hate to invest in the systems needed on the van just to turn around and have to sell the trailer, possibly for a loss.
Back to the drawing board...
I live in LA, looks great, low mileage, maybe get motor mechanical checked, the rest you can fix your self, burbank is near to me, if you need anything, I would check if the roof is in good condition, 8185406189
Dave, I think I am back to square one on this.
I don't think you're back to square one. You may be taking a look at starting with a blank sheet, but what you've learned in the process puts you well off square one. Whichever direction you choose, it will be a better thought out one. That's progress.
joel
I live in LA, looks great, low mileage, maybe get motor mechanical checked, the rest you can fix your self, burbank is near to me, if you need anything, I would check if the roof is in good condition, 8185406189
That is very kind and I appreciate the assistance. If I get back in the LD hunt and spot one in LA, I will give you a call.
I don't think you're back to square one. You may be taking a look at starting with a blank sheet, but what you've learned in the process puts you well off square one. Whichever direction you choose, it will be a better thought out one. That's progress.
joel
Joel, agreed 100%. I tell my brother in law every time we go camping we learn something new. This is no different during "The Hunt". The thing about RVs is that there are so many of them. I am bouncing all over the place on what would work best for my family. You would think after lightly shopping for the past 2 - 3 years I would have it figured out. I think the ability to rent fairly easily has stretched out the research period. Thanks Joel!
Joel, agreed 100%. I tell my brother in law every time we go camping we learn something new. This is no different during "The Hunt". The thing about RVs is that there are so many of them. I am bouncing all over the place on what would work best for my family. You would think after lightly shopping for the past 2 - 3 years I would have it figured out. I think the ability to rent fairly easily has stretched out the research period. Thanks Joel!
Renting is of value if your not using it a lot. Also, maybe approach it this way. If you buy one used it doesn't have to be your first and last one. Buy it for a good price and you could resell it for about the same. This could help your learning curve.
The thing about RVs is that there are so many of them. I am bouncing all over the place on what would work best for my family. You would think after lightly shopping for the past 2 - 3 years I would have it figured out.
Decisions decisions (https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=txTEhgReZUA)