5th wheel travel trailer construction

[Addicting]

I’m reading and researching 5th wheel brands. Have any of you had any experiences with wear and tear of cross country travel? I’ve read on a couple different forums how the highways just shake them apart after a few seasons. Trying to see if one brand stands above the others.

 

[wolfpup]

I had a lower budget 5th wheel that was wood framed and now a aluminum framed 5th wheel. I can tell you I shook apart the wood framed one twice, but could cobble it back together easier. It was a palomino puma which is a Forest River Manufacturer. I now have an aluminum frame Forest River Wildcat and it is holding together and much more stable. So I will be sticking to aluminum frames from now on.

 

[Moserkr]

Parents have a 44' grand design 5th wheel, fancy palace on wheels. It's an absolute pile, bought just before covid time. They have had constant issues with it. They are full timers. Pretty much all of them are built like crap though - cheap material to cut cost and weight.

I have a 30' cougar TT that I rent out and it spends its life in the mountains. Bumpy, windy roads, some highway. Longest trip was out to WY for elk with it. Ive had a lot less problems than them and mine is also a pre-covid unit. Actually very happy with our trailer despite its cheap construction and minor issues.

I definitely take my time towing, traveling slow, trying to avoid potholes and big bumps. The trailers just don't take them well. You know you had a good tow when you get there and all your cups/dishes are still sitting where you left em in the cabinet.