We have just completed our first extended trip in our 2013 Sunseeker 2690SF. The trip covered a lot of the USA and left us with a number of Observations, Questions, and Problems. The trip was just short of 9000 miles. A happy point was that we averaged over 9.4 mpg over the whole trip; substantially better than our old Chieftain which got closer to 6. That gave us a comfortable range of 500 miles. Breath taking, though to fill the tank at our average gas price of about $3.60/gal. Our major disappointment was the lack of power. 6% seems to be the max grade allowed on Interstates. At sea level and nominal Spring temperatures, we could climb such a hill at about 45mph with the transmission having shifted down one level. Off the Interstates, in the Western United States, 8-10% grades are not uncommon. There we would do well to hold 35 to 40 mph. On most significant grades we could not keep up with even the 18 wheelers. We tried hills with the “trailer mode” both on and off. "On" helped a little. We normally cruise 5-10 mph below the speed limit or 65 mph max. On a lot of hilly roads, we weren’t able to maintain these speeds.
Observations
The infrastructure (roads) has significantly degraded since our last long trip (2003 to Alaska). Route 71 near Indianapolis wins our prize for the worst case. That rattles the innards of a stiffly suspended RV. Thanks to the positive latches the fridge stayed closed, but the circuit breaker panel was constantly popped open along with the occasional cabinet door. Sunseeker put good latches on most openings.
The fresh water attach fitting is made of soft plastic; also the black water tank cleaner water attach. As the hose connection is metal, it seems a matter of time before the threads wear enough to leak. Anybody had that experience?
The rubber gap seals on the slide out leave black marks on the slide walls, indicating that they are wearing. Does this indicate that they will fail in time? If so, how does one know short of water flooding in? Are they available and replaceable?
The ladder support standoffs deflect down several degrees when even my 130 lb. wife climbs to the roof. Even if sufficiently strong, it would seem that the flexing is bound to crack the fiberglass back panel.
The auxiliary power (Onan) generator doesn’t work well above 5000ft. The manual supposedly provides information on adjustments that have to be made to correct the problem. We didn’t find them. Western US RVing is apt to result in 7000 Ft. sites one day and sea level the next.
All in all a great trip. Much helped along from forum advise found here.
Fair Winds
Geri