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Old 10-02-2015, 02:19 PM   #1
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2016 FR3

What are the upgrades in the 2016 over the prior years especially in the 30ds model
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Old 10-05-2015, 12:00 PM   #2
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I think mainly the front end is new with different headlights and the new Atwood 18k AC, which I doubt is much better than the 15k. Only other thing is the later model 2016 will come with the upgraded F53 chassis which I believe has the newer 6 speed transmission, vs 5 speed.

Reason we bought our 2015 model vs 2013/2014 was to get the king size bed, led lighting, gas/electric water heater, all hardwood "simulated" floors. You'll see most of the changes FR does mid year for some reason. So some late 2015's will have some of the same features as an early 2016. It would be nice if the 2016 30DS came with the 2nd AC/5500 generator option, but I guess thats only reserved for the 32DS. Good luck with your decision though.
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Old 10-05-2015, 02:59 PM   #3
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Thanks KansasFR3
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Old 10-08-2015, 07:34 PM   #4
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We bought the 2016 30DS and have discovered many upgrades over previous model years, probably due to this forum. The primary one being the 18k BTU A/C. It will run you out it gets so cold. We are Floridians, but 73* is a comfortable setting. Also, our unit has the LEDs setup so that you can have the LED awning lights on without having the LEDs lit on the front of the coach. We have only taken 2 trips but love this RV!! No issues at all.
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Old 10-10-2015, 10:51 AM   #5
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The 2016 ac unit is also a heat pump. Makes it nice not to use the gas and use the Campground electric.
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Old 10-10-2015, 10:57 AM   #6
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Anywhere Warm we have the 2016. How do you keep the front LEDs from coming on with the awning?
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Old 10-10-2015, 12:03 PM   #7
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Quote:
Originally Posted by ostmd View Post
Anywhere Warm we have the 2016. How do you keep the front LEDs from coming on with the awning?
They are now on two separate switches.
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Old 10-10-2015, 12:29 PM   #8
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I only have one switch that I know of.
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Old 10-10-2015, 12:36 PM   #9
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These are the things I noticed about the new 2016 FR3 30DS.

1.King Size bed (Yeah!)
2.18k BTU "Equivalent" Ac with heat pump (Atwood)
3.Front Mesh Bug Shield on front engine grill.
4.F53 chassis (F550) \6 speed auto tranny)
5.Kwikee electric steps
6.Pre-wired for solar

Things I was surprised that weren't standard for FR3. (Is Forest River slipping or getting cheap)?

1. No in-cab power adjustable mirrors.
2. None of the roof vents have fans.
3. No rain drip extenders on rain gutters. (prevents dripping down coach sides)
4. Not set up well in coach for 12v plug-ins (as in not at all), more of a non-boondocking rig unless you run generator or install solar w/inverter.

Don't get me wrong, love this rig. But have a lot of mods to to do.
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Old 10-10-2015, 01:17 PM   #10
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I only have one switch that I know of.
The dash switch is for the front eyebrows and logo. The other switch is by the door and controls the awning lights.
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Old 10-10-2015, 04:02 PM   #11
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The 2016 F53 chassis will have the 6speed but all FR3s will not. The 2016 FR started production before the release of the 2016 F53 model year. Also Forest River will have to use existing stock. I have seen numerous 2016 FRs on the lots that still have the 5 speed transmission. Also the f53 is a motorhome only chassis an f550 would be a cab and chassis that would put the driver in a position more behind the front wheels.
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