Choosing a new popup

[Adam3]

I recently relieved myself of a coleman popup with the horrible abs roof and am currently in the market for a newer model.   I have narrowed it down to a new fleetwood or rockwood.  I am still impressed with the features and styling of the fleetwoods, but  want to know if there are any major problems with the newer models; 2005 or newer.  Is it worth going to a rv show or do they shy away from popups?

[AZsix]

I recently relieved myself of a coleman popup with the horrible abs roof and am currently in the market for a newer model.   I have narrowed it down to a new fleetwood or rockwood.  I am still impressed with the features and styling of the fleetwoods, but  want to know if there are any major problems with the newer models; 2005 or newer.  Is it worth going to a rv show or do they shy away from popups?

I can't help you with those models since the one we have is the only one we have owned but the last time I went to an RV show (2 years ago) they had a large selection of pups. We also have a dealer nearby that seems to concentrate heavily on pups.

[daldricht]

I recently relieved myself of a coleman popup with the horrible abs roof and am currently in the market for a newer model.   I have narrowed it down to a new fleetwood or rockwood.  I am still impressed with the features and styling of the fleetwoods, but  want to know if there are any major problems with the newer models; 2005 or newer.  Is it worth going to a rv show or do they shy away from popups?

Dear Adam,
Not sure what an abs roof is but can say that we have had excellent results with our 2002 Coleman Niagara and we are hoping to upgrade into a 2008 Fleetwood Highsider. Problem is there is a recall on the model we want and no one has appeared to be the new owners of the Fleetwood Popups - which they claim are money losers. Funny thing is they just said what a money-maker they were last year - and with the price of gas, would think this kind of camping less likely to loose campers to the fact they need $400 to fill a tank?

Buying private obviously gives you the better price. But can honestly say we are going to buy our new popup from a dealer - then we get better attention to making sure things are fixed and in operating condition. We have a local dealer that has been great. We will be buying in PA so that we do not have to pay a property tax in VA.

Going to RV trade shows - had a dealer tell me they may give you a deal if you buy what they have on the floor so they do not have to haul it back to their RV Sales office. Going to the lot where they are normally sold is where you can actually negotiate a price off of the asking price - especially if they have some last year models left?

Hope this helps
Dave

[MJohn]

Have owned 4 pop up's bought the first one (Palomeno) used from an elderly couple who had taken great care of it was a great expereince. Second one used from a dealer had a leak in roof they said was fixed, wasn't so had to return it. It was much smaller and cost twice as much as the first. 3rd one used from an individual, Fleetwood and it had many things wrong we couldn't see until we really used it took a big loss when I sold it a year later. I just could'nt lie and take anyone for a ride like the previous owner did me!
    This year bought a 2007 close out for much less than a 2008. It's new and an purchsed the extended 7 yr warrantee. So if anything "major" i.e. frig., a.c, heater, hot water heater breaks it's covered with a minimum out of pocket.
    All I will say is IF you do decide to buy used REALLY REALLY look that sucker over well! DOn't let anyone pressure you to buy and take your time looking it over. Make sure you see it up and down, that's the mistake we made. It looked great inside! But when we set it down and the owner left because she had an
"appointment" we found that the roof was cracked BAD! Also she had proped up one bunk end on the trailer tounge and the little metal things the bed posts are supposed to go on top of so they stay in place were gone! Who would have thought? It looked so good from the inside but these are major issues! Chalk it up to expereince I will never be rushed by someone else to purchase anything ever again! I will FULLY check it out! So if you ever run into a woman with an Austaillian accent, in Nachadoches TX who wants to sell you anything think again people! By the way I have several freinds from AU but none of them ever would think of taking anyone for the ride this lady took us!

[daldricht]

Have owned 4 pop up's bought the first one (Palomeno) used from an elderly couple who had taken great care of it was a great expereince. Second one used from a dealer had a leak in roof they said was fixed, wasn't so had to return it. It was much smaller and cost twice as much as the first. 3rd one used from an individual, Fleetwood and it had many things wrong we couldn't see until we really used it took a big loss when I sold it a year later. I just could'nt lie and take anyone for a ride like the previous owner did me!
    This year bought a 2007 close out for much less than a 2008. It's new and an purchsed the extended 7 yr warrantee. So if anything "major" i.e. frig., a.c, heater, hot water heater breaks it's covered with a minimum out of pocket.
    All I will say is IF you do decide to buy used REALLY REALLY look that sucker over well! DOn't let anyone pressure you to buy and take your time looking it over. Make sure you see it up and down, that's the mistake we made. It looked great inside! But when we set it down and the owner left because she had an
"appointment" we found that the roof was cracked BAD! Also she had proped up one bunk end on the trailer tounge and the little metal things the bed posts are supposed to go on top of so they stay in place were gone! Who would have thought? It looked so good from the inside but these are major issues! Chalk it up to expereince I will never be rushed by someone else to purchase anything ever again! I will FULLY check it out! So if you ever run into a woman with an Austaillian accent, in Nachadoches TX who wants to sell you anything think again people! By the way I have several freinds from AU but none of them ever would think of taking anyone for the ride this lady took us!

The first popup I ever bought was almost sight unseen. The roof was not popped because of the height limitation where we went to look at it. When we finally opened the thing, we had enough silver duct tape over the screen areas that literally made it solid tape.

We lived in FL and had no A/C - but still have to say we all had a great time in the popup. Had 3 little kids, grandparents and a bitchy wife. The popup we have now was bought from a man that had an unhappy wife because of the location of the bathroom and the kitchen sink to wash her hands - we are talking camping and this woman had to have a bathroom with a sink in it.

I no longer have a bitchy wife either - just a partner that likes to camp, get dirty, and enjoy life. Campers have a certain temperment - like being able to cook bacon on a grill in the rain, or having to use a fallen tree because the bathrooms are just too far. When life gets in the way of camping, you need to check into Best Western and collect your air miles instead of meeting people.

My caution right now about buying a Fleetwood Avalon is that Fleetwood has announced they have sold off the popup line and our repair/dealer has no idea who has picked up the construction/sales of them - and Avalon has a recall in place right now for the auto roof crank. We have a power drill that has the chuck needed to fit the crank of the roof. Plus the Avalon has the inside ignitor for the water heater so at 9PM in the dark in the rain you are not trying to light a hot water tank while you have your knees embedded inthe mud. Plus that model has a couch you can actually get two people comfortable on - you might even get your feet rubbed if you play the game right???

So if anyone hears who owns Fleetwood popups - let us know.
Thanks
Dave

[PDNAH5]

The first popup I ever bought was almost sight unseen. The roof was not popped because of the height limitation where we went to look at it. When we finally opened the thing, we had enough silver duct tape over the screen areas that literally made it solid tape.

We lived in FL and had no A/C - but still have to say we all had a great time in the popup. Had 3 little kids, grandparents and a bitchy wife. The popup we have now was bought from a man that had an unhappy wife because of the location of the bathroom and the kitchen sink to wash her hands - we are talking camping and this woman had to have a bathroom with a sink in it.

I no longer have a bitchy wife either - just a partner that likes to camp, get dirty, and enjoy life. Campers have a certain temperment - like being able to cook bacon on a grill in the rain, or having to use a fallen tree because the bathrooms are just too far. When life gets in the way of camping, you need to check into Best Western and collect your air miles instead of meeting people.

My caution right now about buying a Fleetwood Avalon is that Fleetwood has announced they have sold off the popup line and our repair/dealer has no idea who has picked up the construction/sales of them - and Avalon has a recall in place right now for the auto roof crank. We have a power drill that has the chuck needed to fit the crank of the roof. Plus the Avalon has the inside ignitor for the water heater so at 9PM in the dark in the rain you are not trying to light a hot water tank while you have your knees embedded inthe mud. Plus that model has a couch you can actually get two people comfortable on - you might even get your feet rubbed if you play the game right???

So if anyone hears who owns Fleetwood popups - let us know.
Thanks
Dave

Dave,

I just recieve my PUT mag. today and the new owners are Blackstreet Capital Partners LLC of Bethesda, MD. on May 12 2008.  At least this is what the mag. confirms.  There is a one page article in it on page 24.  Hope this helps.

Paul

[daldricht]

Dave,

I just recieve my PUT mag. today and the new owners are Blackstreet Capital Partners LLC of Bethesda, MD. on May 12 2008.  At least this is what the mag. confirms.  There is a one page article in it on page 24.  Hope this helps.

Paul

Paul,
Thank you very much for the info on the new owners. I knew someone would eventually pop to the top. Will check them out before we make any decision.

Saw the numbers at the bottom of your note and saw '71 - at first thought I was looking at ages - then realized it was birth years - I am getting older so brain does not always function the way I want it to.

Thanks again - much appreciated info.
Dave

[camper147]

I bought a new 2006 Rockwood model 1980 and everything started off great but now thatI had it for almost 3 years I have a leak at the fan and they are avoiding emails regarding covering it under warranty, even though their dealer saus they don't put enough chauking around it and they have mentioned it to them.
I personally wouldn't recommend a Rockwood popup at all, I bought a used 1980 viking (before the Rockwood) and had it over 10 years and it never had a leak.

[sacrawf]

I also have a 2006 Rockwood, which I bought new, and would recommend Rockwood Campers.

The leak around a fantastic vent shouldn't be covered under warranty. I have had the same leak start on my Rockwood, but it is a maintaince issue, not a warranty issue.

The warranty specifically states that it "will not apply to normal maintainance such as greasing wheel bearings, tightening lug nuts, keeping the areas where extrusions meet panels sealed, etc., that the vehcile will require"

Page 5 of your Rockwood owners manual states "It is important to maintain the seals and adhesives of your camping trailer to prvent moisture from entering and destroying camping trailer componants. When washing your camping trailer, inspect the seals and body moldings for signs of drying out and wear.  Be aware that weather, sun, and road vibration will have an effect on seals, cuasing them to dry, crack, or seperate.  You should check the condition twice a year.  Clean off all dirt, and check for cracks in the sealant around the vents and extrusions.  Use a polyethelane sealant, or a marine type caulking to reseal.  If you are unsure what to look for, have your dealer instruct you, and also show you the correct method for renewing the seals.  If you prefer, ask your dealer to perform seal maintaince for you."

I bought a new 2006 Rockwood model 1980 and everything started off great but now thatI had it for almost 3 years I have a leak at the fan and they are avoiding emails regarding covering it under warranty, even though their dealer saus they don't put enough chauking around it and they have mentioned it to them.
I personally wouldn't recommend a Rockwood popup at all, I bought a used 1980 viking (before the Rockwood) and had it over 10 years and it never had a leak.

[darkknight66]

I recently relieved myself of a coleman popup with the horrible abs roof and am currently in the market for a newer model.   I have narrowed it down to a new fleetwood or rockwood.  I am still impressed with the features and styling of the fleetwoods, but  want to know if there are any major problems with the newer models; 2005 or newer.  Is it worth going to a rv show or do they shy away from popups?

Just bought our new 2008 Rockwood 2318G, it's loaded and couldn't ask for much more.  Our maiden voyage is over labor day....I shopped around alot and for the $$$ Rockwood had the best to offer.  good luck !

[Adam3]

Thanks for all the info on the new trailers.  We are still on the market, and have suprised myself with patience in purchasing.  I think we have narrowed it down to a 2007 Fleetwood Sun Valley.  This model is the same as the Mesa we sold minus the storage trunk, so we can fit it in the garage.  Keep the info coming, I like to hear the pros and cons of the different brands.

[tlhdoc]

Dear Adam,
Not sure what an abs roof is but can say that we have had excellent results with our 2002 Coleman Niagara

An ABS roof is the roof on your trailer, unless it was replaced in 2003 or later.

[drkminwa]

Thanks for all the info on the new trailers.  We are still on the market, and have suprised myself with patience in purchasing.  I think we have narrowed it down to a 2007 Fleetwood Sun Valley.  This model is the same as the Mesa we sold minus the storage trunk, so we can fit it in the garage.  Keep the info coming, I like to hear the pros and cons of the different brands.

We recently purchased an 07 Fleetwood Westlake and just love it. At first it appears to have minimal storage but so far we have storage space left over. DW loves the casette potti!

Tows like there is nothing back there. I did go with the anti-sway bar from Husky and I'm sure that helps.

This was a used purchase from a highly reputable dealer in Portland OR area.

DRKM in WA

[joe leister]

Have owned 4 pop up's bought the first one (Palomeno) used from an elderly couple who had taken great care of it was a great expereince. Second one used from a dealer had a leak in roof they said was fixed, wasn't so had to return it. It was much smaller and cost twice as much as the first. 3rd one used from an individual, Fleetwood and it had many things wrong we couldn't see until we really used it took a big loss when I sold it a year later. I just could'nt lie and take anyone for a ride like the previous owner did me!
    This year bought a 2007 close out for much less than a 2008. It's new and an purchsed the extended 7 yr warrantee. So if anything "major" i.e. frig., a.c, heater, hot water heater breaks it's covered with a minimum out of pocket.
    All I will say is IF you do decide to buy used REALLY REALLY look that sucker over well! DOn't let anyone pressure you to buy and take your time looking it over. Make sure you see it up and down, that's the mistake we made. It looked great inside! But when we set it down and the owner left because she had an
"appointment" we found that the roof was cracked BAD! Also she had proped up one bunk end on the trailer tounge and the little metal things the bed posts are supposed to go on top of so they stay in place were gone! Who would have thought? It looked so good from the inside but these are major issues! Chalk it up to expereince I will never be rushed by someone else to purchase anything ever again! I will FULLY check it out! So if you ever run into a woman with an Austaillian accent, in Nachadoches TX who wants to sell you anything think again people! By the way I have several freinds from AU but none of them ever would think of taking anyone for the ride this lady took us!

THe wife and i have a class b motorhome that has cost us a small fortune in towes, the last one from shasta city ca to clearlake ca. was 1100.00 my point is we bought it used and it hasnt been much fun, on the other hand our starcraft 2406 that we purchased new is a delight to use, the quality is good and the price was right. If i can afford it from now on i will allways buy new or next to new. ie year enc close out etc . good luck joe
 :book:

[daldricht]

THe wife and i have a class b motorhome that has cost us a small fortune in towes, the last one from shasta city ca to clearlake ca. was 1100.00 my point is we bought it used and it hasnt been much fun, on the other hand our starcraft 2406 that we purchased new is a delight to use, the quality is good and the price was right. If i can afford it from now on i will allways buy new or next to new. ie year enc close out etc . good luck joe
 :book:

Bought a Class "A" many years ago and it had EVERYTHINK wrong with it. But when you have a 4-foot 6-inch Italian mother-in-law, life was always a bunch of humor. We actually had the RV parked on the side of the road in Florida - and you know that deep road side trenches for rain . . . well we must have been close to being at a 45 degree angle. When I saw my mothers legs hanging off of one of the beds at a 45-degree angle I just laughed, called  for roadside assistance and paid the price.
We also discovered that the gas cap cover was off for almost 8-years, where the RV sat under pine trees as a summer rental in a dumpy campground. The tires were about as close to being totally dry rotted - so we bought a bunch of those. Then we discovered the tank was full of pine needles so had to have that detached, acid cleaned, then rebuilt onto a rusted RV frame. The brake drums - had NONE - so had to have the entire structure rebored and ended up close to $3,000 in cost. The idiot that owned it several people before us, glued the window frames so that the drain holes were plugged up - so instead of draining OUTSIDE the windows drained INDOORS. After about a year of rebuilding this albatross, we came home to discover my father-in-law did us a favor and sold the RV to some man for $200. plus gave hime $20 bucks towards gas? He thought he was doing us a favor and getting rid of the tension in our life. After spending close to $6,000 to getting it to work half-way right, he literally gave the junk away and I wanted to see if the man wanted to take my father-in-law with him. NEVER AGAIN - will never split the cost with in-laws.
The next camper was a used Coleman popup - never knew what model it was, but when you popped the top up there must have been 600-feet of duct tape holding the screens and plastic windows "from leaking"???
The popup we have now was bought 2nd hand but can tell you it was like new. I think they said they had used it for three trips.
The next one we are going to buy is the Coleman Avalon - the larger high side that has the couch, the stove, and you do not have to fold the kitchen when packing up. Plus the water heater is turned on with a switch INSIDE so you do not have to listen to someone grumbling at 9 at night in the rain on the outside.
I did hear one of the service technicians explaining to the owner of a $528,000 RV that no matter what price you pay - whether new or used, you are going to drive the thing over rough roads and things are going to fall apart. Camping in an RV or popup is maintenance from the day you drive off the lot with it.
Camping should be fun because you get a chance to spend more time with your family. I will be anxious to hear what the previous owners of the Fleetwood popups has planned. The editorial in Popup Times indicated there are some new surprises about to surface?