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Old 02-23-2016, 08:42 PM   #1
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About to purchase a NEW 2015 2861DS. Need feedback please.

Hello everyone. I am new to this forum. I signed up today because I need feedback, comments or warnings (hopefully none) for this particular model.

My wife and I are about to finalize loan documents to purchase this NEW 2015 2861DS. We found this remaining unit at a dealer about 350 miles away.

Are there any known problems or issues with this particular year and model? (Ford engine) that we need to be aware of? It has been sitting on their lot for almost a year now. We are heading back to the dealer this weekend to do a final visual inspection for any water damage (from any leaks) during storage. Any other things we need to check for?

This weekend is very important. Once we do this last inspection, will finalize the documents and take delivery (PDI) next week, Saturday.

Any comments, suggestions, known issues will be greatly appreciated.
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Old 02-23-2016, 10:29 PM   #2
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We picked up our 2016 2861DS in November and have no issues as far as the model is concerned. We love it. Have had some minor issues with items that we wanted corrected before delivery which are still ongoing but that is more a dealer issue than Forest River.
As all will recommend on the forums, make sure you check out EVERYTHING before you take delivery. Get all manuals and have them show you how everything operates. Read through the different threads for those buying new RV's and make a list of those things others recommend be checked out(too many to list).
The outdoor kitchen is nice but the fridge only runs on 110v. I am in the process of adding an inverter to run it and then solar power so the generator will not be needed.
I'm sure you will like the model if the outdoor kitchen was one of the selling points.
Good luck on your new purchase.
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Old 02-23-2016, 10:40 PM   #3
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Hello HopHed, you mentioned yours is a 2016 model. We are getting a New Old Stock 2015. Anything different between the 2 year models you are aware of?

Getting nervous on this purchase and excited at the same time. I will have to do more reading in this forum before the PDI.
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Old 02-23-2016, 11:57 PM   #4
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Cant remember all the differences but there were a few. Ford went to the 6 speed transmission. There is also a better entertainment/coach stereo system in the newer version. I believe they also moved the side view cameras from the mirrors to the side behind the door. You should try to check a new 2861 if you can find one to compare. Were are you getting it from?
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Old 02-24-2016, 09:31 AM   #5
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The six speed is a MAJOR improvement.

Although the 5 speed works fine etc, the 2016 6 speed is MUCH better. Unless the price is an absolute bargain, I would get a 2016 (which I did lol).

Paul
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Old 02-24-2016, 10:41 AM   #6
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HopHed and AncientMariner, do you mind sending me what you paid for (dealer askng price, no taxes yet) the 2016 models you got via PM? We looked at the 2016 models and they are not willing to negotiate down on the price. We are getting a Fair deal I think on the 2015. I just want to have an idea on what the 2016 models of the same kind are going for. Thanks.
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Old 02-24-2016, 11:18 AM   #7
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Here is a link to a 2016
DeMartini RV Sales - New and Used Motorhome Dealer | Detail | Vehicles
They have others to look at on their website and get a quote from for comparison.
Good luck
Jim
ps And I have to agree that the 6 speed transmission is awesome...gear ratios seem perfect - especially when towing.
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Old 02-24-2016, 01:06 PM   #8
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I have a Sunseeker (sister to the Forester) it's been very good! The 2017 models come out in a few weeks so your model will be two years old. You should be getting at least 40-45% off the list price. We got 35% on a just released new model year.
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Old 02-24-2016, 05:58 PM   #9
Wait till next year...
 
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Try rvwholesalers.com for foresters or rvdirect.com for sunseekers. Their pricing will give you a good idea of whole sale pricing
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Old 02-25-2016, 12:47 AM   #10
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Quote:
Originally Posted by edcronin01 View Post
I have a Sunseeker (sister to the Forester) it's been very good! The 2017 models come out in a few weeks so your model will be two years old. You should be getting at least 40-45% off the list price. We got 35% on a just released new model year.
I agree, if you aren't getting MORE THAN 35% off the MSRP they are ripping you off. Ask to see the dealer invoice, too.
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Old 02-27-2016, 04:36 PM   #11
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Another question, when you purchase the RV, did you pay in FULL and then do the PDI? Or pay a deposit, pay in FULL during the PDI?


I have read somewhere that it is a great idea to pay at least 85% and leave the 15% on the day of the PDI, so that the dealer will do their BEST to fix any issues (if any during PDI), since they want to get paid for the full amount.


What is the common practice at the dealer?


My bank is cutting me a check for the FULL Amount payable to the dealer. So, no way of me just giving 85% of the FULL amount.


Any suggestions on how to normally handle the Payment and PDI?


Thanks
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Old 02-27-2016, 06:13 PM   #12
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$1000 deposit and no payment or paperwork until the test drive and PDI.
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Old 02-27-2016, 07:35 PM   #13
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I agree. Only a deposit until final inspection, test drive and you're happy with everything before you give them the full amount. Once they get your money they are less likely to make good on any issue that may come up during PDI.
Good luck. Did you go with the 2015 or 2016?
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Old 02-27-2016, 08:18 PM   #14
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Thanks guys. We just got back from the bank. Have the FULL amount written in one check. I will offer a $500 check deposit tomorrow (not to be cashed), and show them the actual check (but not hand it over) so they know we are SERIOUS. Sound like a plan?


I emailed the sales rep this afternoon and asked to make sure the engine is running so we can do a test drive, then I will visually inspect for anything broken or missing, then give them a list.


We are driving 350 miles one way tomorrow, then heading back in the afternoon. I want to do my test drive and initial inspection tomorrow and give them a list of what I find. We are planning on a third trip next Saturday for PDI and actual delivery.


I hope they will agree with the $500 deposit. I am getting nervous on handing them over the FULL payment tomorrow and getting an RV that is not to my full satisfaction.


HopHed, we have decided to get the 2015. I called around and the difference is HUGE between the 2 year models. We like the floor plan of the 2861DS. 2016 is just outside the budget.


Wish us luck guys. This is it. I hope everything works out for the best tomorrow.
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