Looking at buying a new 183.

mopwr4me2003 · 07-03-2016, 11:10 PM

The wife and I are looking at purchasing a new 183 either rockwood or shamrock, does not appear to be much difference between them other than cosmetic stuff. The main question or questions I have, are there any major issues people have had with these models? I know little things will pop up but I'm looking at the bigger problems at least what I consider big. One thing on my mind is the bunk ends. Any issues with leaking, sagging, closing or things like that? Electrical issues? I guess just seeing if this is a problem model or am I just being paranoid. We have a pop up now that is a 2003 and have had no issues with leaks but this is a whole new animal. We are still 6 mos away from buying so we have time to look and think about a change if needed. Thanks for any help and input.

GalsofEscape · 07-05-2016, 09:59 AM

Yes, the only difference between the Rockwood Roo and Shamrock is cosmetic. We have a 23ws Shamrock. We are very pleased with it. We have had one tent end come out of the channel on the door. Was reattached easily with silicone but am keeping an eye on it. There is a thread here with others having the same issue. We have not had any other issues though ours is new, we have been out on 5 outings to date with it, have not had any leaks. Though I don't like the blue light in the fridge, can't see worth a dang inside it. I would have the dealer change that out for a white light.
The trick to closing the tent ends is to turn on the fans, close the windows and door and the fan sucks the tenting in making closing up easy. Good luck on your camper hunt.

mopwr4me2003 · 07-05-2016, 10:07 AM

Some good advice on the closing. Thank you for the info.

jking46 · 07-05-2016, 11:57 AM

The whole Roo/Shamrock line is great. We are in our 3rd summer with our ikss with minimal issues. Only suggestions would be to make sure your tv is capable of handling a full height rv and to shop for the dealer as well as the camper. They are not all created equal.

Old Eeyore · 07-05-2016, 02:47 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by jking46

make sure your tv is capable of handling a full height rv

X2 - Make sure your TV has sufficient capacity, proper hitch & sway controls.

Quote:

Originally Posted by jking46

shop for the dealer as well as the camper. They are not all created equal.

Sadly, this is also very good advice.

Summer2Go · 07-17-2016, 11:33 AM

I got my 183 last summer, it is a fantastic camper for me. I tow with the SUV I use all year, which isn't so gigantic. I can sleep 7 large sized people, and the bunks are reasonably private. The space to move around inside the trailer is not a lot, but sufficient; we are camping so we're outside anyway. The bathroom is a little snug for my six foot camper types, but if they really have an issue they can use the campground showers. We really love it!

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mopwr4me2003 · 07-17-2016, 12:26 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by jking46

The whole Roo/Shamrock line is great. We are in our 3rd summer with our ikss with minimal issues. Only suggestions would be to make sure your tv is capable of handling a full height rv and to shop for the dealer as well as the camper. They are not all created equal.

I have realized this already and I just started looking. Sad that some just want a sale and could care less about you once you leave. Gives a new meaning to taillight warranty lol.

jking46 · 07-17-2016, 07:03 PM

We experienced the same thing during our preliminary shopping. We couldn't get out of Camping World quick enough. Pushy salesperson with high pressure techniques. Different dealership...totally incompetent salesperson. No knowledge of the product. Others acted as if we weren't worth their time since we weren't interested in a high dollar fiver or moter home
Fortunately we found a good dealership in Indianapolis. Sales dept really good and fair and service has been excellent so far. Coleraine.
Good luck in your search.

pxt · 07-17-2016, 08:22 PM

I have a 183 as well and I think it's great. Compact and sleeps 6-8. We don't spend anytime inside, all outside.

Mainframe · 07-17-2016, 08:55 PM

Bought mine in Colerain in Cincy, they were awesome!

Hockeymom · 07-23-2016, 10:39 AM

We have had our for 4 seasons and love it! Good luck!

ChooChooMan74 · 07-23-2016, 10:50 AM

I have a 2015 183. I just find it take 2 people to properly close the front bunk, or take the mattress out. I find that it pressing on the back of the dinette and the night stand will cause pressure on the door and it will no seal properly. But, I do like my 183.

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