Frequently asked RV Questions

When someone starts thinking of buying a recreational vehicle, a hundred questions come to mind, some so seemingly basic that the person might wonder who to ask without being embarrassed. Well, here, courtesy of Poulsbo RV, are the answers to dozens of questions we've heard through the years.

Questions About RVs
What's the difference between a Class A, Class B and a Class C motorhome? A Class A is constructed on a specially designed motor vehicle chassis. Class A's are the "Big Boys" of the motorized RVs, and are the most favored motorhome of full-timers. A Class B motorhome is a compact unit that looks much like a regular van. These are popular because they can often be parked in the family garage or driven around town as a second vehicle. Per square foot, however, a Class B usually costs more than a Class C. A Class C is built on an automotive-manufactured van frame with an attached cab. The motorhome manufacturer completes the living section and attaches it to the cab section. A Class C motorhome is easy to identify: In most cases, a full- or queen-size bed is over the cab.

What's a Fifth Wheel Travel Trailer?
This is much like a conventional travel trailer except it is built with a raised forward section for a bi-level floor plan. Fifth Wheels, which are very popular with full-timers, are pulled behind a pickup truck with a special hitch. They are very stable to tow and spacious inside.

What's a truck camper?
This is a recreational vehicle designed for recreational camping. The living area placed on the bed of a pickup truck. It's amazing how many features can be packed into these very comfortable units. Access to the living area from the cab is seldom possible, however. The camper can be easily removed from the truck at the campground or back home. Truck camper prices range from about $2,300 to $20,000.

How much do RVs cost?
A little or a lot. A small folding camping trailer might sell for $2,500. Motorhomes are $30,000 and up with many in the $40,000 to $150,000 range. We've seen price tags of $950,000. Trailers and Fifth wheelers are less (often far less) than motorhomes because there is no engine. Some first-time RVers buy a used vehicle, where there are often great deals. Poulsbo RV always has an excellent selection of previously owned units.

How are RVs financed?
Loans for new, large RVs typically range from 10 to 15 years, with some extending even 20 years. Whether the purchase is financed through a bank, savings and loan, finance company, credit union or RV dealer, seven out of ten lenders require less than a 20 percent down payment. Some lenders require as little as 10 percent.

Which is best for my motorhome, a gas or diesel engine?
Veteran Full-timers and RV authors Barb and Ron Hofmeister offer this answer: "The advantages of a gasoline engine over diesel is primarily the price. The new super chassis (both Ford & GM) make gasoline engine motorhomes a great buy. Not only are they less expensive than diesel, but they have good carrying capacity. Also oil changes and maintenance are less expensive with the gasoline models. The diesel motorhome rides quieter, though, because the engine is in the rear on most, can hold much more cargo including heavier materials in the interior such as Corian counter tops, china toilets, and so on. Diesel models usually have super transmissions and pac brakes which make mountain driving a breeze. An oil change on a diesel motorhome runs from $175 to $250 and the engines run forever."

What is a "diesel pusher?"
A diesel-powered motorhome with a rear engine.

Which RV is best for me, a motorhome, travel trailer, or something else?
A motorhome is a good choice if you move around a lot with brief stays in each place; you probably won't need another vehicle for sightseeing or chores; if you need a vehicle, however, you can tow a small car or truck. An advantage of a motorhome over a towable RV (trailer or fifth wheel) is that you have access to the unit while you're on the road. It's easy to grab a snack, for example, or use the toilet (tell the driver to avoid fast turns!).

A trailer or fifth wheeler is often the best choice for full-timers because they can park it and then drive the tow-vehicle. For RVers who spend weeks or even months in one place, a Fifth Wheeler or Trailer is often the best choice. Towable RVs are also much less expensive than motorized ones.

A truck camper is an excellent choice if you already own a truck. You'd be surprised how many features are packed into these compact units.

For infrequent family campers, and campers on a tight budget, a folding camping trailer is an excellent choice. These are generally among the least expensive, lightest RVs, and can be pulled behind a small to medium-sized car. Some are pretty plush with porta-potties and even showers.

What are the advantages and disadvantages of a wide body RV?
The advantage of a wide body RV (up to 102 inches wide) is livability. There is more room inside these spacious units. The disadvantages are that there are places -- rural highways, bridges, and even an occasional campground -- where a wide body is not permitted. Generally, however, RVers in wide bodies who travel major federal and state highways will have no problems. Travelers who plan to spend a lot of time on secondary highways and two-lane back roads might want to stick to a standard width RV (up to 96 inches wide).

I understand that I can write off the interest on an RV like it was a second home. Is this true?
Yes, as long as the RV is used as security for the loan and it must have basic sleeping, toilet and cooking accommodations. The IRS publishes two booklets that contain helpful information on this subject. Copies of "Publication 936 -- Home Interest Deduction" and "Publication 523 -- Selling Your Home" are available by calling the IRS at 1-800-829-3676.

What kitchen appliances come in RVs?
Everything you have at home. Microwaves come in all but the least expensive units, and even coffee makers.

What unusual amenities might I find in an RV?
Believe it or not, we once came across a couple who had installed a waterbed in their motorhome. A surprising piece of factory equipment -- a laundry chute to a basement laundry compartment -- is found in Fleetwood's Montara motorhome. Propane-powered fireplaces are quite common in Fifth Wheelers and travel trailers.

How many people do RVs sleep?
Four to six on average, but sometimes less and sometimes more.

Can I pull a travel trailer with my family car?
In many cases, yes. New lightweight towables are popular these days and can be pulled by most six-cylinder cars and sport utility vehicles. Lightweight towables are generally less than 26 feet long and 4,000 pounds or less with most or the features of heavier units. They typically retail for $8,000 to $14,000. Some small folding camping trailers can even be pulled behind a four-cylinder car.

Can I buy a four-wheel-drive motorhome?
Yes, a few models are available. Fleetwood, for one, offers a four-wheel drive option on its Tioga and Jamboree Class C motorhomes.

Is there a consumer guide that rates RVs?
We don't know of any such guide, although it would surely be a best seller among RVers. The best bet in determining the quality of a particular RV is to talk to people who own one, read reviews in RV magazines, and then be sure to carefully inspect the unit you are interested in buying. And be sure the vehicle displays the oval-shaped seal of the Recreation Vehicle Industry Association. To qualify, a manufacturer must comply with hundreds of safety specifications that are essential for quality unit. Be wary of any RV that does not display this seal.