I visited the Tidewater RV Show Friday evening. I looked at all the rigs but especially focused on the 5vers and Class A's. They had all of the major manufacturers from dealers around the region. The most expensive rig was a Class A at approx $275,000. I was paying close attention to the quality and construction of the units and comparing differences. I found that, no matter what the cost range, all of the construction, especially on interior walls, seemed "weak" (thats the best term I can think of at the moment). This included the expensive units. The interior walls flexed when you pushed against them, the doors were cheap and the fit poor on all the units, and the countertops that looked like expensive marble were, upon closer inspection, cheap laminate that wasn't even as tough as the Lowe's laminate counters in my kitchen. Also didn't like the layout of the units for functionality for daily living.
Conclusion: For the price they are asking on even a lower priced 5th wheel (approx $35,000) I can custom build a rugged, high end unit for the same price or less. Unless you are spending a million for one of the high end coaches you simply can't get a quality built rig from the average manufacturers. I have always been skilled mechanically (nuclear welder, carpenter, medical device development/repair, mechanic) so I have no doubt I can build a solid rig at a reasonable price that would rival a million dollar unit. The production line units just aren't built to handle full time living or long term life span. They might do for some, but if I'm going to put the money into a rig its going to be something built tough to my quality and functionality standards.
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