MPG

[funpilot]

Well, it has come with its own challenges that look like they are almost done.  They tried some new windows and they leaked.  They are designed to be turned upside down so any way you install it there are "unused drains" at the top that they insert rubber plugs into.  The plugs do not work so water leaks in.  They replaced the windows with a slightly different version (supposedly tighter seals), and still leaked. I then sealed the plugs with 3M 4000 UV, and that seems to have done the trick.  To be on the safe side, they have authorized me to get all the windows and the roof resealed locally.  When I took it back to the factory (only 10 hours away from me), they also corrected a wiring problem on a new refrigerator I asked them to install so was a first time thing for them, they corrected some minor cosmetic issues, and the slide out motor needed to be adjusted.  So, if the leaks are fixed (has not rained here enough to fully test yet), then it is as good as it can get!!  Key for me, although one could argue that the issues should not have been there in the first place, has been that they have not blinked once in addressing them.

As for the leaks, the way the Trailmanor is designed today, there is no wood where the windows are so it was just a nuisance (aluminum and foam).  It is not wood free, nor is it as nice as a LL in my opinion, but it does have its pluses like the mpg and it tows like a dream. I have no problems opening and closing it.  Takes about 2 minutes to pop it open, and then about 5 minutes to get the inside all done. When opened it is 31 feet long and when closed 24 feet long. Once it is all set up, it is quite nice inside.  Kitchen counter space is more than I can use, storage is abundant, we have a king size bed in the back and a full size one if we convert the dinette.  It will easily allow me to take my Alaskan malamute (my challenge with the LLs that ultimately got me to select the 28BHS model).  Only real compromise is the bathroom.  It has a cassette toilet and is small.  Because it folds up, it cannot properly vent from a black tank, so they do not have them.  My choice was a recirculating toilet or cassette, I took the cassette.  Only real mod I am planning is to install the Truma AquaGo instant hot water heater.  I have talked to several owners of it and they say it actually works (no flow issues or wide swings in temps).  

[pinstriper]

The cassette toilet is what does me in. Otherwise I quite like the concept of these trailers.

FYI you can simulate rain quite effectively with a garden hose. It has the advantage over a natural rainstorm in that once you find a leak, you can make it stop raining.

[djsamuel]

[quote source="/post/6317/thread" timestamp="1422677059" author="@surfsup"]First trip, 130+ miles, 13.5 mpg averaged with a good mix of freeway, highway and city driving.  [/quote]That's pretty impressive.  What engine is in your F150?

[jtelles3993]

[quote source="/post/6317/thread" timestamp="1422677059" author="@surfsup"]First trip, 130+ miles, 13.5 mpg averaged with a good mix of freeway, highway and city driving.  

That's pretty impressive.  What engine is in your F150?[/quote]

It's the 5.0 but keep in mind I'm not sure how the mileage will pan out on a real trip with the RV loaded, hitting serious hills, etc.

[djsamuel]

[quote source="/post/6453/thread" timestamp="1422891692" author="@surfsup"]

[quote source="/post/6451/thread" timestamp="1422890501" author="@djsamuel"]That's pretty impressive.  What engine is in your F150?[/quote]It's the 5.0 but keep in mind I'm not sure how the mileage will pan out on a real trip with the RV loaded, hitting serious hills, etc. [/quote]Very true.  Was curious if you had the EcoBoost. Some people take a hit towing with that engine, although FastEddie seems to be doing pretty good with his.

[jtelles3993]

EcoBoost or 5.0, either would have been fine with me. My priorities were: crew cab, Lariat trim, tow package, clean, low miles.