Prime Time Manufacturing Receives "Quality Circle Award"

Prime Time Manufacturing, North America’s fastest growing RV company, was awarded the prestigious Quality Circle Award from the Recreation Vehicle Dealers’ Association (RVDA) in a ceremony kicking off the 2010 RVIA Louisville trade show.

“Prime Time Manufacturing is honored to have earned the Quality Circle Award in our very first year of business,” said Prime Time president Jeff Rank. “This award is a tremendous credit to the hard work and commitment of all our employees who have come together with a joint mission to build high quality products, while providing industry-leading services to our dealers.”

Prime Time was recognized for scoring 80 percent or above in overall dealer satisfaction as measured in the Dealer Satisfaction Index (DSI) survey conducted by RVDA. The DSI survey, which determines the Quality Circle Award winners, rates manufacturers’ performance in eight core areas: vehicle reliability/quality, parts support, dealership warranty support, vehicle design, sales support, sales territory, competitive price/value, and overall dealer communications.

 

“The DSI survey is an important tool for the measurement of the quality of our products, our manufacturing processes, and our sales and service policies,” said Rank. “We want to thank our valued dealer partners for honoring us with this prestigious award. Prime Time has geared up with an outstanding line-up of innovative and high quality towables for 2011 and we look forward to serving our dealers and retail customers with more award-winning products and services.”

Prime Time Manufacturing recently introduced the Crusader fifth wheel which was selected as one of the featured products for this year’s edition of the popular cable television program RV 2011 which aired recently on the HGTV network.

Flmed on location at America’s largest RV show in Hershey, Pa, RV 2011 host Chi-Lan Lieu toured the coolest new high-tech and eco-friendly recreational vehicles and took three families on the shopping trip of a lifetime, searching America’s largest RV show for the recreational vehicle of their dreams.

HGTV – America’s leader in home and lifestyle programming – is distributed to more than 99 million U.S. households and is one of cable’s top-rated networks. HGTV’s website, HGTV.com, is the nation’s leading online home-and-garden destination, which attracts an average of 4 million unique visitors per month.

Why Prime Time?

Whether you are considering the purchase of your first RV or your next RV, we are confident you will enjoy the following advantages of Prime Time Manufacturing:

DESIGN

Prime Time Manufacturing understands the critical elements of designing a winning recreational vehicle – floorplan, eye appeal, storage, and convenience. There aren’t many secrets in the RV industry and most manufacturers offer similar versions of the same floorplan. However, the true genius is in the details. Is every inch of storage space fully utilized? Is there adequate pantry space for both tall and short items? Where do you put your trash can? Does each feature maximize user comfort and convenience? Are the decors residential yet durable? We have spent years listening to customers talk about what they want in the “perfect” RV. Drawing on that feedback, countless hours are incorporated into dissecting every detail to fully maximize the enjoyment each of our models will provide. We are fanatical about design because we want to ensure that our RVs will EXCEED your expectations.

QUALITY

Prime Time Manufacturing chose to headquarter its operations in Wakarusa, Indiana, the center of northern Indiana’s Amish community. This is an area where old world craftsmanship, traditional work ethics, and doing things the “right” way are still emphasized and valued. Our executive management team has over 100 years of manufacturing experience that allows Prime Time to engineer and build an RV that will withstand the test of time. Every unit we ship is put through a rigorous 65 point system inspection at our factory AND at your selling dealership to make sure your first camping adventure is memorable for all of the right reasons. Finally, we provide a comprehensive Emergency Roadside Assistance program for your additional safety, convenience, and peace of mind. For us, quality isn’t just a slogan, it’s our culture.

VALUE

Prime Time Manufacturing is a division of Forest River, Inc, one of North America’s largest producers of towable recreational products. Because of our tremendous corporate sales volume, we are able to leverage massive purchasing power to produce an RV with more features for the money than any other company in the industry. We also operate with extremely low overhead. You won’t find Prime Time advertising in national trade magazines or traditional media sources – we rely on good old fashioned word of mouth advertising. Our dealers aren’t rewarded with luxurious trips or outfitted with fancy wardrobes – they only get high quality, fast selling RVs that are priced lower than the competition. We rely on our Corporate offices to take care of payroll, payables, receivables, accounting, Human Resources, legal, and many other operational functions - these additional costs DON’T go into the price of a Prime Time RV. We understand that the purchase of your next RV is one of the most important decisions you will make and we are committed to giving you the best value for your hard earned dollar.

FINANCIAL STABILITY

Since the purchase of your next RV will represent a significant financial commitment, you’ll be glad to know that Prime Time Manufacturing will be here to provide parts and service for the duration of your ownership experience. Prime Time is a division of Forest River, Inc, a company owned by Berkshire Hathaway, one of the world’s largest holding companies with a market capitalization in excess of $150 billion. Forest River provides the corporate umbrella under which Prime Time operates. No other RV company in the world can offer the financial stability afforded to a customer of Prime Time Manufacturing.

Going Green

Prime Time Manufacturing is committed to sustainable management of our natural resources and the protection of the environment through our company’s choices and behavior.

Leading the way in this effort is the exclusive use of CARB Compliant construction materials. Recognized as one of the most stringent air quality standards in North America, CARB Compliant materials will help your family breathe easier and keep them healthier.

Extensive research, testing, and implementation of the newest composite materials reduces the weight of our RVs, improves the fuel economy of your tow vehicle, and minimizes carbon emissions into the environment.

Utilizing lean manufacturing techniques, carefully choosing our manufacturing processes, and employing extensive in-house recycling are just a few additional areas where Prime Time Manufacturing has chosen to “Go Green”.

Coming Soon to Prime Time....

Sanibel Fifth Wheels

Following up on the success of Prime Time’s first fifth wheel product, the wildly successful Crusader, plans are underway for launch of the company’s next fifth wheel product – the fully featured Sanibel.

Prime Time understands that great floorplans are the most important factor when deciding which fifth wheel to purchase. Whether you are looking for a rear living room, rear entertainment, or need an emphasis on the kitchen, Sanibel will offer the utmost in user-friendly CONVENIENCE, STORAGE, and COMFORT. As we’ve demonstrated with every Prime Time product, even the smallest details of Sanibel will be analyzed to ensure that your expectations are not only satisfied, but exceeded.

Tremendous eye appeal is a standard feature on all Prime Time products. So, you can be assured that Sanibel will be in exclusive company by offering only SOLID CHERRY hardwood cabinet doors and drawers. Accented with BRUSHED NICKEL HARDWARE and CROWN MOLDINGS, Sanibel will have a look that is normally reserved for units costing thousands of dollars more. PREMIUM COUNTERTOPS, DESIGNER APPLIANCES, UPGRADED FURNISHINGS, and residential carpet and vinyl flooring will complete an interior ensemble worthy of admiration.

On the outside, Sanibel will provide numerous benefits – emotional, physical, and financial. With its stylish and AERODYNAMIC FRONT CAP, Sanibel will cut thru the wind allowing for a SMOOTH, STABLE RIDE eliminating tension and stress. Your wallet will be given special consideration as the Sanibel front cap will provide INCREASED FUEL ECONOMY with its rounded design. Once you arrive at the campground, Sanibel has been engineered to offer INDUSTRY BEST TURNING RADIUS to help you back into even the tightest parking spots. Sanibel will offer several new and innovative exterior features not usually found on ordinary fifth wheels that will easily multiply your comfort and convenience. Of course, Sanibel will have many of the innovative exterior features found on other Prime Time products – SLAM LATCH BAGGAGE DOORS, ELECTRIC STABILIZER JACKS, ELECTRIC AWNING, UNIVERSAL DOCKING CENTER, and an UPGRADED SUSPENSION PACKAGE.

Finally, our engineers have left nothing to chance when selecting the precise components to build a fifth wheel worthy of being called a Prime Time. The exterior walls will be 100% WELDED, ALUMINUM FRAMED, LAMINATED construction. We are taking no shortcuts – we will laminate the walls, the slide-out walls and roof, and even the entire main floor – to make sure Sanibel offers the best insulated, strongest, and quietest fifth wheel in its segment. We are ENCLOSING THE UNDERBELLY with a one-piece, corrugated ABS panel that will allow for adequate heating of your vital holding tanks and dump valves during extended season usage. Water lines will be carefully routed to prevent unnecessary freeze-ups on those cold weather trips and UPGRADED INSULATION, an EXTRA LARGE FURNACE, and ADVANCED AIR CONDITIONING systems will promote year around comfort.

Look for Sanibel at American RV, Olive Branch, MS in April of 2011.

http://www.americanrv.biz/

Olive Branch, MS

Toll Free: 888.337.6870

LaCrosse Features:

LAMINATED SIDEWALLS

Every Prime Time is standard with gel-coated fiberglass and aluminum framed sidewalls. No need to sacrifice with a “stick and tin” RV. Enjoy the great looks, convenience, insulation, and durability of laminated sidewalls.

AIR MATTRESS SOFA

Your comfort and convenience is ensured with this Air Mattress Hide-A-Bed. Plus, the engineers at Prime Time have incorporated a highly convenient storage drawer and worked closely with our suppliers to create a folding mechanism that eliminates pinch points.

BUS STYLE SLAM BAGGAGE DOORS

You don’t have to buy a Diesel Motor Home to get the security and convenience of Bus Style Slam Baggage Doors. These 1” thick doors also have a uniquely keyed lock that won’t be the same as your neighbors.

ELECTRIC STABILIZER JACKS

Prime Time takes the work out of leveling your trailer with the convenience of Electric Stabilizer Jacks. Luxury and value are combined with this LaCrosse standard feature.

ELECTRIC AWNING

You will love the push-button convenience of Prime Time’s electric awning. Complete with adjustable arms to allow for water drainage, you will find this feature standard on LaCrosse models.

"EZ TOW" AXLES

LaCrosse offers EZ Tow – another Prime Time innovation designed to minimize the vertical “bouncing” effect that is transferred to the tow vehicle when traveling over rough road surfaces, potholes, or railroad crossings.

MAX SLIDE

No sacrifices are required with LaCrosse. Incorporating over 13 feet of floor space, the MAX Slide Room offers a full size Air Mattress Hide-A-Bed and the industry’s largest U-Shaped Dinette. Live (and sleep) like a king with MAX Slide.

REMOTE KEYLESS ENTRY

Why can't your RV have the locking features found on your car? Tired of your keys breaking off in the lock? NO MORE! LaCrosse offers simple push-button convenience with the Keyless Remote Entry Door.

UNIVERSAL DOCKING STATION

LaCrosse provides Best In Class convenience of having all your water connections, cable connections and outside shower in a lockable, all-in-one, easy to use compartment.

OUTSIDE KITCHEN OPTION

Outside entertainment and dining is easy and convenient with Prime Time’s innovative Outside Camp Kitchen. You’ll find a sink with running hot and cold water, a large refrigerator, a slide-out stove, and tons of storage for all your essentials.

 

SLEEP AND PLAY

Upright it’s a comfortable lounge area complete with drink holders. Laid down, it’s an extra large sleeping area. There’s no need to accept a simple bunk room when you can have the industry’s most versatile accommodations – Sleep & Play – found in select LaCrosse models.

TOUR THE PRIME TIME FIFTH WHEELS AND TRAVEL TRAILERS BY FOREST RIVER AT AMERICAN RV IN OLIVE BRANCH, MS

http://www.americanrv.biz/

Olive Branch, MS

Toll Free: 888.337.6870

American RV's Red, White & Blue Clearance Sale in Olive Branch, MS

American RV's Red, White & Blue Sale from now until Saturday, June 26th!  Up to 30% off and $1,500 in Factory Rebates.  Huge selection!  RV Liquidation Sales Event - 2010 Models Must Go to make room for our new 2011 Models!! Keystone's #1 Selling  Montana, Keystone Outback, Sydney, Cougar, Springdale, Summerland, and Cougar Travel Trailers and Fifth Wheels. Forest River's Primetime Travel Trailers with full outdoor kitchens. Winnebago Motorhomes.  Dutchmen Eco, Micro Trailers and much more!  We have new and used inventory!  We are offering you thousands of dollars in savings, with additional Keystone Factory Rebates! This is offered to you only at American RV! 

Join us for refreshments, prizes & savings at the Red White & Blue Sale in Olive Branch, Mississippi, Wed. - Saturday (June 23rd - 26th). Factory Reps, On-site Financing & Spot Delivery will be available!

Click Here for More Details! 


 

Located at 8150 New Craft Road in Olive Branch, MS just off Highway 78 (Exit 1 from Memphis).

American RV

Olive Branch, MS 38654

Phone:  888.337.6870

www.americanrv.biz

Sale Dates:  June 23 - 26, 2010

Keystone Montana: #1 Fifth Wheel for 9th Straight Year

For the ninth consecutive year, Keystone RV Co.’s Montana has been named the No. 1 retailing fifth-wheel, according to Statistical Surveys Inc. In addition, retail sales numbers for the first two months of 2010 show Montana with an 18% market share increase, outselling the nearest competition by nearly two-to-one, according to a news release from Keystone.

In a letter to Keystone, Tom Walworth, president of Statistical Surveys Inc., recognized Montana: 

“We at Statistical Surveys Inc. congratulate Keystone RV’s Montana division for achieving number one retail sales leadership in 2009 calendar year. According to our records, this is the 9th consecutive year Montana has earned the No. 1 ranking; it is very rare for an RV company to hold the No. 1 brand ranking for this period of time. This is something that happens due to the hard work of the Keystone team.”

“We are grateful to our strong dealer network and loyal customers for Montana’s ongoing success,” added Montana general manager Aram Koltookian. “The entire Montana team is looking forward to making it 10-in-a-row. January and February sales increases certainly start us off with great momentum.” 

Among the steps Montana is taking to further solidify the brand’s leadership position:

Ramping up production by 25% during the coming months in order to meet growing wholesale and retail demand. 

Continuing to introduce new floorplans that deliver what the customer is asking for, floorplans like the 3750 FL (front lounge) and the 3580 RE (walk around island kitchen). 

Accelerating shipments of the Montana High Country models which offer customers luxury features and quality while saving over 2000 pounds in weight. 

Progressing with plans to open a new Montana factory that is 30% larger than the existing Montana facility and that will further increase Montana production.  

SOURCE:  RV Business

Need an RV?  Contact American RV - Worldwide Delivery!  American RV is an approved  Keystone Dealer who carries the Keystone Montana and a full line of Keystone Brands in Inventory! Low Internet Pricing!

http://www.americanrv.biz/

Fun Time RV - Largest Single-Site RV Dealership in U.S. Closes Doors

Fun Time RV – the largest single-site RV dealership in the U.S. by sales volume – has closed its doors, sources tell RV PRO. The dealership, located outside of Fort Worth in the small community of Cleburne, Texas, closed its doors Thursday (May 6).

Calls to the dealership by RV PRO were not returned late Friday. However, Clark McEwen, executive director of the Texas RV Association, confirmed to RV PRO that the dealership has ceased operations.

“They’re gone,” he said simply. McEwen said Fun Time RV was the largest dealership in Texas in terms of towables and of overall volume. “At one time – in the heyday, say four years ago or so – they were approaching close to $100 million a year. They were, up till right now, the largest fifth wheel dealer in the nation,” he said. 

“It’s quite a shock,” said Tom Walworth, director of Statistical Surveys, commenting on Fun Time’s closure.

Walworth said that Statistical Surveys data shows that in 2009 Fun Time RV sold a combined 1,606 units, making them the largest single-site dealership by unit sales in the country. The next closest was Lazydays with 1,355 units. Walworth added that Fun Time’s volume of unit sales probably made it one of the five largest in the country in several categories of RVs.

McEwen said reports he was hearing recently indicated that, even until just before closing, Fun Time was continuing to sell a lot of units. However, there were also reports that the dealership was having financial issues, and problems with access to credit, he added.

GE Capital provided financing for Fun Time RV. Bill Hughes, sales director for GE Capital in Tempe Ariz., said he couldn’t comment on the status of individual clients.

McEwen said Fun Time’s closure is a loss not just for its employees and customers, but for the entire industry.

“It’s a monster. It’s not good for the industry,” he said, adding, “Even his (owner Sam Kidd’s) toughest competitors don’t want to see that happen.”

SOURCE:  RV PRO

If you need an RV, contact American RV at http://www.americanrv.biz/,  Toll Free  888.337.6870

American RV has launched a full online marketing campaign to include all the social media sites!  Offering Worldwide delivery!

TAX REFUND SALE - KEYSTONE OUTBACK

AMERICAN RV TAX REFUND SALE

Keystone RV Sale:  Outback, Springdales


American RV Center
Worldwide Delivery!

Homer Simpson Buys an RV & The Simpsons Get Back to Nature

The TV show the Simpsons has been on the air for years and has provided us with many laughs. This video is no exception.  If you've ever been to an RV lot, you'll enjoy this clip. You can't help but feel sorry for Homer when the RV dealer runs his credit in this first video clip, but take a look at what RV is actually in his budget.  You gotta love Bart's sarcasm!  This is an entertaining lesson for new RV salesmen....don't show your customer the best deal on the lot "first".  HA!

Get your RV Travel Trailer, Motorhome or Fifth Wheel at American RV!

RV Vacations Depend on Solar to Keep Costs Down, Footprint Small

Thursday, April 01, 2010 at 9:40:00 AM - by Jeanne Roberts

Because the economy isn’t quite as horrid as 2008, when many families decided that “staycations” were the best option dwindling household budgets could provide, a few RV owners are making plans to take their vehicles back on the road this summer.

Traveling across the country by recreational vehicle is less expensive than renting motel or hotel rooms, or spending an entire week at a resort. It is, however, still costly, largely because of fuel prices, which fell in January – though never below last year’s low – but now seem to be rising again in preparation for summer travel plans.

Little can be done about fuel costs, but RV owners can lower travel costs, and their environmental footprint, but taking advantage of the literally hundreds of solar RV options on the market, like solar lights, air conditioning, hot water and even solar radios and televisions.

Speaking of lights, how about powering up your RV evenings with a string of solar LEDs? Weighing just 1.5 pounds, the lighting string clips to the RV awning, and contains an automatic timer, allowing the lights to run from dusk to dawn with no intervention needed.

You can also buy a solar security light that weighs five pounds and will, after charging for four hours, run for up to eight hours to provide 2X illumination around your home-away-from-home (ideal if you happen to overnight in the boonies). Installation is so easy a newbie with a screwdriver and a pair of pliers can get it up and running in five minutes.

For owners of older RVs, air conditioners now come in a solar-powered variety, meaning more cool for fewer fuel dollars, and a really tiny environmental footprint as well. Made by such companies as Airxcel of Wichita, Kansas, the solar-powered AC units are affordable and relatively easy to install.

If you have roof space left over, consider solar hot water heating, for another cost-reduction strategy. Because most of the bathing, washing and cleaning will be done once the RV is parked, solar hot water systems make an ideal RV addition, allowing you to heat the water all day and use it abundantly at night.

RV equipment manufacturers also offer solar-powered food refrigeration. The most revolutionary, in terms of performance versus wattage required, is the SunDanzer. At 8 watts, or 12 volts, this system will cool enough food for an average family, and one model – which hooks directly to solar panel – is used in third world countries for keeping medicines cool at very low cost. The only difference with the SunDanzer? It opens from the top, like a conventional freezer.

Lastly, for hardcore offroad enthusiasts, a solar cooker can be used to purify water from a standing pond or water source of questionable quality. Simply attach an inexpensive device, called a Water Purification Indicator, or WAPI, to determine when the water from the cooker is safe to drink. No more hours of boiling, or precious fuel burnt, and the solar cooker can also be used for food, outside the RV, to allow air conditioning or fans to maintain a livable temperature inside the vehicle.

To save even more energy, and reduce your carbon footprint, switch all bulbs to CFLs, use rechargeable batteries running off solar power for your hand-held electronics, flashlights and small appliances, buy local foods where possible, sort recyclables, and burn propane instead of natural gas where possible.

Source:  Cooler Planet

Get your RV Travel Trailer, Fifth Wheel or Motorhome at American RV!

Keystone RV Announces Live Your Dreams Sweepstakes

 

New Live Your Dreams Sweepstakes Announced

You could be one of Keystone's lucky winners of a new Keystone RV in the NEW Live Your Dreams Sweepstakes! Just image the joy of hitting the open road with your new Keystone Hornet, Passport, Sprinter or Montana Mountaineer.

Keystone RV will be giving away a total of 4 RVs. One will be given away at each select RV show per the information below:

  

The RVs to be given away in the 2010-2011 sweepstakes:

   

Keystone Hornet travel trailer model 28RLS

Keystone Passport travel trailer model 280BH

Keystone Sprinter travel trailer model 299BHS

Keystone Montana Mountaineer fifth wheel model 326RLT

One winner will be selected by random drawings at each of the following Events:

• 
  
  
  The Iowa RV & Travel Show, April 11, 2010
• 
  
  
  The Rally 2010, July 25, 2010,
• 
  
  
  The Atlantic City Fall RV Show, October 31, 2010
• 
  
  
  The Colorado RV, Sports, Boat & Travel Show, March 6, 2011

Learn about additional RV Shows.

View the Official Sweepstakes Rules

Enter to Win

  

Previous Winners in the 2009-2010 Giveaway:

Keystone Springdale travel trailer RV, model 266RL-SSR, MSRP $18,50 

Winner: Henry Daniels, Fitzgerald, GA

Delivered: May 22, 2009

Keystone Outback travel trailer RV, model 270BH, MSRP $22,900

Winner: Nancy Heckert, Panama City, FL

Delivered: November 6, 2009

Keystone Cougar Xlite fifth wheel RV, model 27SAB, MSRP $27,500

Winner: Linda Douglas, Houston, TX

Delivered: February 6, 2010

Keystone Montana fifth wheel RV, model 3150RL, MSRP $44,730

Tentative Winner: Richard Liberty, Oregon City, OR

 

The Sweepstakes is valid from March 8, 2010 – March 6, 2011.

Brought to you by Keystone!

Need a new RV Travel Trailer, Fifth Wheel or Motorhome?  American RV is the place to go!  Worldwide delivery!

Fuel cell firm to enter RV market

March 30, 2010 14:14

ANN ARBOR, Mich. -- Adaptive Materials, a manufacturer of portable power through solid oxide fuel cells, was recently awarded $3 million through the Centers of Energy Excellence Program (COEE), the company announced today. It will use the funding to support the commercialization of its fuel cells within the consumer leisure market.

“Adaptive Materials is ready to move forward the fuel cell technology developed for soldiers in the field to provide portable power to consumers on the go,” explained Michelle Crumm, chief business officer. “Funding from COEE provides the extra boost we need to break into the consumer market and deliver a truly game-changing technology. This market expansion will create the meaningful company growth that leads to more jobs for Michigan.”

Adaptive Materials currently manufactures two different fuel cells. A 50-watt fuel cell that delivers portable power to soldiers in the field and a 250-watt unit that powers unmanned military vehicles. The company’s 250-watt unit is the basis for its RV and consumer leisure market fuel cell; Adaptive Materials’ fuel cells can provide the auxiliary power needed for TVs, radios, laptops, microwaves, and other creature comforts in an RV.

Unlike other fuel cells that run on hydrogen or other hard to source fuels, inexpensive and globally available propane, butane and LPG power all Adaptive Materials fuel cells. “By focusing our technology on readily-available fuels, Adaptive Materials solved a problem associated with fuel cells: Consumers could certainly find need for a fuel cell, but no fuel to actually sustain the unit,” Crumm added.

The COEE program, administered by the Michigan Economic Development Corp., supports the development, growth and sustainability of alternative energy sectors throughout the state. Adaptive Materials was selected for the COEE program because of its collaborative work with MichiganWorks!, University of Michigan and its supply-chain infrastructure for commercialization of innovative energy technology.

The COEE program focuses on where the state has competitive advantages in areas of the workforce, intellectual property and natural resources but where funding is required to overcome technical and supply-chain hurdles that could prevent or stall the commercialization process.

About Adaptive Materials, Inc.

Based in Ann Arbor, Mich., Adaptive Materials, Inc. is the first company to develop, demonstrate and deliver a portable, affordable, and fuel flexible solid oxide fuel cell (SOFC) system. The company offers 50 and 250-watt fuel cell systems that are powered by globally available and energy dense propane, butane and LPG. Adaptive Materials’ fuel cell system provides portable power to the United States Armed Forces as well as industries including leisure, remote monitoring, and medical devices.

For more information, visit http://www.adaptivematerials.com/.

Posted in: RV Industry

Need a new RV, Travel Trailer, Fifth Wheel or Motorhome?  Contact American RV, Mississippi RV Dealer, Low Internet Pricing!  Worldwide Delivery! 

www.americanrv.biz

America's Largest RV Show prepares for another record-setting year

CAMP HILL, Penn. -- As the RV season gets into full swing, the Pennsylvania RV and Camping Show, America’s Largest RV Show, is preparing for another record-breaking show in Hershey, Penn.

“The 2009 Pennsylvania RV and Camping Show had a record year with more than 34,000 people in attendance,” said Rebecca Lenington, executive vice president of the Pennsylvania RV and Camping Association. “We are determined to exceed expectations once again in 2010 with increased marketing and a new Industry Days format that offers better benefits to exhibitors and attendees.”

The Pennsylvania RV and Camping Show is the first show in the nation to feature 2011 products, and it has the largest display of park models in the country.

"There’s no better place for companies to promote their latest products, talk to their current customers and network with new contacts," Lenington said. "The show is also unique because it incorporates both trade and retail days creating a successful hybrid show that benefits the RV industry and consumers alike."

The deposit deadline to participate in the show drawing is April 8, and the drawing will be held May 4.

For more information, to reserve space at America’s Largest RV Show, or to register for the event, call 888.303.2887 or visit www.largestRVshow.com.

SOURCE: Pennsylvania RV and Camping Association press release

Posted in: RV Industry

Need a new or used RV, Travel Trailer, Fifth Wheel or Motorhome?  Contact American RV, a Mississippi Dealer - worldwide delivery!

FMCA: Winnebago View Profile 24DL

Winnebago View Profile 24DL

Winnebago Industries’ new model created using the popular Sprinter chassis features clever storage and safety-belt-equipped seating for six.

By Jim Brightly, F358406
Family Motor Coach Assn.

March 2010

The Winnebago View Profile 24DL motorhome sports a premium high-gloss exterior.

The first thing we noticed about the Winnebago View Profile 24DL when picking up a unit for a recent test outing was the amount of interior storage it contained. After we took delivery of our test coach from Findlay RV in Las Vegas, my wife, Saraine, exclaimed that it had “oodles” of storage; I said it had “gobs.” We finally agreed that the View Profile is equipped with lots of interior storage, especially for a motorhome less than 25 feet long. We found that Winnebago Industries’ designers have filled every available space with some kind of storage area. Wherever a cabinet, a drawer, or a cupboard wouldn’t fit, a nook, a tray, or a cranny was used.

This utilization of space is what Winnebago Industries calls the SmartSpace design philosophy: incorporating innovative, user-friendly features to make the most of the available space. It seemed to work well in our test coach.

The View Profile’s silhouette does not allow space for an overhead bunk, but it does have a skylight, plus a cubbyhole on each side for stowing miscellaneous items such as hats, gloves, and binoculars. Above the sun visors are trays for notepads, maps, etc. In addition, I kept my sunglasses (at night) and reading glasses (while driving) on a fairly wide “tray” situated just below the gauge cluster and above the steering column.

The galley in the Winnebago View Profile 24DL motorhome includes a microwave oven, two-burner cooktop, vented range hood, and round stainless-steel sink.

Opposite the side-entry door are three cupboard doors positioned above the Jensen TV; the right and middle doors open into one cupboard, while the far left door hides the in-house Jensen AM-FM radio, alarm clock, and CD-DVD player entertainment unit. More storage is found in the forward-facing bench seat below this cabinet, which is directly behind the driver’s seat, along with the 300-watt inverter.

Across the aisle on the curb side, above a small inward-facing couch, are three more cabinet doors, all opening into one large cupboard. The couch also provides storage, and that is where we kept our bedding.

Stepping aft along the street side, we find the bathroom. In this case, it truly is a bathroom and not just a water closet. Although the sink against the forward bulkhead is quite small, it’s the only thing in the bathroom that is. A cabinet sits below the sink, and three additional cabinets are mounted to the wall above it, with a mirror in the door directly above the sink. The residential-size Thetford porcelain toilet employs a hand sprayer, and the full-size shower with wall surround features a flexible showerhead and a skylight. The shower is equipped with an unusual “disappearing” door that automatically rolls back into its vertically mounted roller box. Each time the door is rolled up, a full-length wiper blade removes all the moisture from it for storage. The shower door is made of mildew- and mold-resistant material and has a five-year warranty.

In the rear bedroom of the Winnebago View Profile 24DL, the bed extends partway out the back of the motorhome when the slideout is extended.

Aft of the bathroom door, a full-length mirror is installed for those last-minute touch-ups just before stepping out of the motorhome. You’ll probably fall into a habit of checking yourself in the mirror each time you go to the Norcold 5.5-cubic-foot refrigerator, because the fridge is next in line toward the rear of the motorhome. Then you reach the bedroom.

With the bedroom slideout extended out the rear of the coach, the foldable queen bed (60 inches by 75 inches) can also be fully deployed. The mattress is a one-third/two-thirds pair. The smaller portion is stacked on the larger portion for travel when the rear slideout is pulled in. If the one-third portion were cut again into two equal parts and stacked on one another, we believe the bed could be used as a lounger during the day with the slideout in. I could find no access to the underbed storage from inside the motorhome. (That storage area is accessible from the exterior door in the rear.) The bed proved very comfortable and quite large for a smaller unit, although room for walking around each side of it is minimal.

A privacy curtain sequesters the bedroom from the rest of the motorhome and hooks to three shallow hoops in the ceiling. Two cabinets hang above the bed, and book trays with reading lights are on each side. The bedroom includes a rear window as well.

Additional storage is available in the shirt-length wardrobe and two fairly deep drawers on the curb side of the motorhome across the aisle from the refrigerator. On the rear-facing wall of the wardrobe, another Jensen LCD TV is mounted for viewing from the bed.

A privacy curtain stretches across the rear of the Winnebago View Profile's cab.

The View Profile’s galley sports a round sink with a glass cover. For galley work or travel, the hinged cover provides a safe, flat working space and no rattling when the motorhome is in motion. For washing, the cover is tilted upward, along with the pivoting faucet. The sink is deep enough to clean small pots and pans. The two-burner stovetop is protected with the same type of glass cover when not in use, creating additional flat counter space. Overhead is a microwave oven, a stove hood with exhaust fan and light, and another cabinet. Above and to the right of the sink is the monitoring station, where the coach owner can check the status of the holding tanks, water tank, etc., plus the water heater and water pump switches. Above that is the keyed slideout control panel.

With the exception of the window over the galley sink, which is equipped with a venetian blind, all the “house” windows have pull-down day-night shades.

Returning to the front eating/lounging area, it’s noteworthy to mention that the table folds down into a small (42-inch-by-44-inch) bed. Since the bed does not block the aisle from the cab and is equipped with two seat belts, it could be ideal for those who enjoy traveling with their dogs. When in position, the bed is large enough to accommodate at least two traveling kennels, which could be secured using the seat belts. If your pet doesn’t use a crate, the padded bed surface remains out of the way and should prove comfortable for a dog or two, depending on their sizes.

The small side couch on the curb side also folds down and connects across the aisle with the dinette bed, making an 82-inch-by-38-inch bed for nighttime sleeping (nighttime because it blocks easy access to the cab). Two pairs of snaps secure a privacy curtain to the rear cab bulkhead.

All of the View Profile’s cabinet doors have latches that can be secured, a feature I really like. While in camp, spring hinges keep the doors closed, but they are easily opened. When prepping for the road, a simple push on the latch knobs secures them for travel. A simple push again when the next stop is made, and the doors are ready to open.

With the street-side table set up, two adults can squeeze into the front-facing bench while traveling, but two children would be more comfortable. A combination electrical outlet (120-volt-AC and 12-volt-DC) is situated on the sidewall, just below the window. This is handy if someone wants to run a computer or connect a game set to the TV. The bench is equipped with two seat belts; two more are on the couch. The motorhome sleeps three and seats six.

Keeping in mind the difference between the number of seat belts and sleeping accommodations, if your traveling group totals more than three people, and you’re thinking of upgrading from a small SUV and toy hauler package into a View Profile 24DL, consider keeping the toy hauler. You can safely belt in six people while traveling in the View Profile 24DL; three can sleep in the coach while three can bunk in the toy hauler for the night, and you’ll still have your toys with you.

In 2009 the Sprinter’s towing capacity was upped to 5,000 pounds (the upgraded seven-pin hitch receiver is rated at a maximum of 5,000 pounds pull weight and 500 pounds tongue weight). This capacity was carried over for 2010, but you still must adhere to both its gross vehicle weight rating (GVWR) of 11,030 pounds and its gross combination weight rating (GCWR) of 15,250 pounds. Please be aware to not exceed either of these limits.

On The Road

Winnebago Industries’ newly designed floor plan, with a swoopy silhouette over the cab area, proved to be both fuel- and family-friendly. Having just seen a History Channel program on all the “secret” goings on in and around Area 51 in Nevada, a few miles west of Las Vegas, I pointed the nose of the View Profile 24DL west when I pulled out of Findlay RV. Lying west-by-northwest of Glitter Gulch, Area 51 has long been suspected of hiding highly secret projects — both military and intelligence-gathering — being developed by the U.S. government. As it turned out, it was too dark to go exploring by the time we arrived, but the deserted desert highways proved to be an excellent test bench for the View Profile 24DL.

The coach is fairly quick for a V-6 diesel-powered motorhome (154 horsepower at 3,400 rpm; 280 pound-feet torque at 1,200 rpm), with zero to 50 mph averaging 15.2 seconds. According to company literature, the View Profile’s gas mileage is said to be the “best in the industry” and factory estimated to be 16 mpg to 19 mpg with this Mercedes-Benz diesel. During our test outing, the vehicle averaged 14.4 mpg over the entire test loop with a high of 16.5 mpg (on the final leg) and a low of 12.9 mpg on the first leg. Not sure why the differences, except that on the first leg of the journey I had to deal with an abundance of afternoon end-of-business traffic, then climbing to our first campsite at Beatty, and the stretch included the zero-to-50-mph runs. Most of the final leg was clear of traffic, and much of it was gradual downhill driving.

Speaking of fuel, the View Profile has a rather unusual location for its fuel filler tube. It’s beneath a fuel door that is secured by the driver’s door when it’s closed.

While driving (and when setting up camp each night), I noticed a lot of glass in the cab area, especially with the overhead skylight. I really enjoyed the additional lightness and brightness. If you’re winter camping, covering all the glass in this area with Winnebago’s window blinds will go a long way toward cutting down your LP-gas bill. Speaking of winter camping, because temperatures hovered in the teens during our outing in the View Profile, we never had an opportunity to deploy the optional powered awning. That’s too bad, as much of the enjoyment of RVing is experienced under a warm sun and the shade of an awning.

Once seated behind the wheel, the only warning lights I noticed were for monitoring the engine’s operation, so I checked further. Only a few items initially can be viewed on the display in the instrument panel: service due date, engine oil level, clock set, and outside temperature (or the digital speedometer can be accessed). One pushes the menu button to scroll through other options.

The View Profile is nimble and easy to handle. It’s at home in any mall’s parking lot, and I had no problem behind the wheel while motoring around Nevada. I just set the cruise control at the speed I wanted and it was maintained, with the five-speed automatic transmission keeping pace with aplomb. Holdback on downhills was easily accomplished — even though the coach was not equipped with an exhaust brake. Drivers will want to indoctrinate themselves with the Sprinter’s shift selector panel, which displays no lower gears. “P” is at the top, then “R”, “N” and “D,” respectively. Plus and minus signs on either side of the shifter indicate the presence of additional gears. The driver taps the shifter to the left to drop the transmission to a lower gear and taps it to the right to raise the transmission a gear.

When I was dumping the View Profile’s holding tanks during the post-test cleanup, I discovered that the process is a bit more involved than that of other motorhomes. This unit uses a pump to transfer the gray water to the main drain hose. The gray tank drain valve handle is located under the rear cap in the left rear corner. After dumping the black tank and closing that valve, you pull the gray tank valve and then operate the pump switch in the water center compartment until the tank is drained. According to company officials, the advantage of this system is that it allows for a single drain hose connection.

The cab of our test coach was simple and functional. It is equipped with removable carpet mats on the floorboards and swiveling captains’ chairs. The manual seats were actually quite sophisticated and comfortable. They move fore and aft as well as up and down, and they recline and also have an adjustable lumbar support pillow.

Although this motorhome offers an abundance of interior storage, you will want to keep in mind that its GVWR is 11,030 pounds. Our test unit weighed in at 9,700 pounds with full fuel and fresh water tanks; when this is deducted from the GVWR, it leaves the coach with 1,330 pounds to spare. Obviously, the more passengers aboard, the less rated weight is left for food, toiletries, clothing, bedding, etc.

While driving, I enjoyed the View Profile’s cruise control, tilt and telescoping power steering, antilock brakes, and electronic skid control. The 180-amp alternator keeps all three batteries (one chassis and two house) charged and ready for use. The two house batteries are also wired through a dash-mounted auxiliary starting switch in case a bit more boost is needed to turn over the Mercedes-Benz V-6 engine on a cold morning.

Although the 24-foot-9-inch View Profile might not be described as spacious, it certainly is not cramped. Because of the cold weather we experienced during our road test, Saraine and I spent much of our time inside the motorhome. We never felt confined. I’m not sure whether four people would experience “cabin fever” after three or four days, but the two of us never did.

The View Profile 24DL comes with a base suggested retail price of $105,791; its as-tested price was $112,175 with several options: electric patio awning, exterior speaker system, water purifier, Alcoa stylized aluminum wheels, 3.2-kilowatt Cummins Onan diesel generator.

MANUFACTURER

Winnebago Industries Inc., 605 W. Crystal Lake Road, Forest City, IA 50436; (641) 585-3535; www.winnebagoind.com

MODEL

2010 Winnebago View Profile

FLOOR PLAN
24DL

SLIDEOUTS
1, rear

CHASSIS
Sprinter

ENGINE
Mercedes-Benz 3-liter CDI 6-cylinder; 154 horsepower @ 3,400 rpm, 280 pound-feet torque @ 1,200 rpm

TRANSMISSION
5-speed automatic transmission with overdrive

AXLE RATIO
3.92 to 1

TIRES
LT215/85R 16 LRE

WHEELS
Alcoa 16-inch aluminum

WHEELBASE
170 inches

BRAKES
hydraulic four-wheel antilock disc

SUSPENSION
front, strut with transverse leaf springs; rear, leaf springs; stabilizer bars front and rear

SHOCK ABSORBERS
heavy-duty two-piece gas struts

STEERING
power-assisted rack and pinion

ALTERNATOR
180-amp

BATTERIES
chassis (1) — 100-amp;
coach (2) — deep-cycle Group 24 RV batteries

INVERTER
300-watt

ELECTRICAL SERVICE
30 amps

AUXILIARY GENERATOR
Cummins Onan 3.2-kilowatt diesel (optional)

EXTERIOR LENGTH
24 feet 9 inches

EXTERIOR WIDTH
90 inches

EXTERIOR HEIGHT
10 feet 7 inches

INTERIOR HEIGHT
6 feet 5 inches

BASEMENT STORAGE
two bins; one on right side and one in rear (19.8 cubic feet)

GROSS COMBINATION WEIGHT RATING (GCWR)
15,250 pounds

GROSS VEHICLE WEIGHT RATING (GVWR)
11,030 pounds

GROSS AXLE WEIGHT RATING (GAWR)
front — 4,410 pounds;
rear — 7,720 pounds

AS-TESTED WEIGHT
(weighed with full water and fuel tanks)
front axle — 3,280 pounds;
rear axle — 6,420 pounds;
total — 9,700 pounds

OCCUPANTS AND CARGO
maximum — 1,585 pounds

SEAT BELTS
6

SLEEPING CAPACITY
3

FRAME CONSTRUCTION
aluminum and steel

INSULATION
polystyrene foam

FRESH WATER TANK CAPACITY
29 gallons

HOLDING TANK CAPACITIES
gray water — 32 gallons;
black water — 32 gallons

FUEL CAPACITY
25 gallons

FUEL REQUIREMENTS
diesel

PROPANE CAPACITY
18 gallons

WATER HEATER
6-gallon Atwood

WATER SYSTEM
on demand

HEATING SYSTEM
Suburban, 20,000 Btu

AIR-CONDITIONING SYSTEM
(1) Coleman 13,500 Btu; heat pump optional

REFRIGERATOR
Norcold 5.5-cubic-foot two-way (AC and LP gas)

TOILET
Thetford porcelain with hand sprayer

WARRANTY
coach — one-year/15,000-mile basic; structure — 3 year/36,000-mile limited; roof — 10-year limited parts and labor; chassis — 36 months/36,000 miles

BASE SUGGESTED RETAIL PRICE
$105,791

PRICE AS TESTED
$112,175

SOURCE:  FMCA

http://www.americanrv.biz/

American RV Center 

 Mississippi RV Dealer

Toll-Free:  888-337-6870

Sales, Parts & Service

Route 66 RV Network

Worldwide Delivery!

Olive Branch, MS

The Keystone Montana Fifth Wheel - #1 Selling 5th Wheel!

Keystone Montana fifth wheel

"The comfort and luxury consistent with being the #1 selling fifth wheel in North America - none of the details have been overlooked or forgotten"

Keystone says: "Montana’s luxurious new decors and easy living features provide the comfort and luxury consistent with Montana’s reputation being the #1 selling fifth wheel in North America. None of the details have been overlooked or forgotten. Plush residential furniture, state of the art remotely controlled electronics, and solid hickory cabinetry only highlight the all new 2010 Montana."

The picture below shows the interior of the beautiful 3400RL model.

 

Keystone says: "Montana’s luxurious living area has a 72” residential sofa which is upholstered in beautiful heavy grade fabric. The sofa also converts to a true 60” x 80”queen size air bed with the touch of a switch. There is 5 cubic feet of storage space in the base of the sofa. Standard on every Montana are two 32” wide, high back glider recliners complete with lumbar cushions. An optional 5100 BTU electric fireplace is available on most models. Most Montana models give you the option of having a computer workstation.

The spaciousness of the Montana is unparalleled. The slide room ceiling height is 6’6”... An industry first. Until you have experienced the shear openness of the Montana, you have no idea what your missing!"

The picture below shows the kitchen arrangement of the 3400RL model with the optional 12 cu. ft. refrigerator. Note the Corian counter top and cabinet space:

"Montana’s wide body bedroom suites are nothing short of extraordinary. When you enter the room, you will instantly recognize the spaciousness accomplished by our deeper slide. The 6’5” tall ceiling height allows for larger cabinets, wardrobes and windows. Montana’s bedrooms have large 30” deep cedar lined closets. The armoire is extremely versatile. It has removable shelves or can be converted for a washer/dryer (prep is already in place). There is even a hidden security storage area for your valuables."

 

 

We show the 10 floorplans below -click for a bigger picture. We really like the wide range of floorplans available with the Montana. 6 of the models have the rear seating area that many people have told Roaming Times they really like. 3 of the models have an entertainment center and desk in a slide room. All of the models show Keystone's wide experience in layout and careful choice of fabrics, furnishings and fittings. A truly beautiful 5th wheel with 10 really nice models for 2010:

http://www.americanrv.biz/

American RV Center  

Mississippi RV Dealer

Toll-Free:  888-337-6870

Sales, Parts & Service

Route 66 RV Network

Worldwide Delivery!

Olive Branch, MS