TT for two- Ameri-Lite 218 MB- good starter RV?

[pearlbalt]

Those of you who have read my previous posts know that my DH and I have been vacillating between buying a new vs. a used TT. We've gotten a lot of good advice here that has helped us to narrow our choices. We've been trying to adhere to the KISS principle in the hope of avoiding some of the pitfalls (and expense) in our future purchase. We came across this model on a local website and are wondering if this is THE ONE. It seems to have most of what we're looking for. The base price for a 2015 is just under 12K (which does not include tax,tag,dealer folderol, etc) Does anyone have experience with this model/line? Problems? Raves? Are there any add-ons that will make the difference to a younger in heart than in body couple? With upkeep, will it retain much of its value if we want to sell/buy up? Once again, your knowledge will be extremely valuable.

[bikendan]

since this is not a FR product, don't know how much feedback you'll get here.

i will say that on other non-brand RV forums, Gulfstream has a pretty low reputation, at least on their TT's.

[pearlbalt]

Thanks bikendan, I suspected that the response might be limited because it is not a Forest River trailer. However, from what I've seen so far, this is a wide ranging group. So although many are Forest River loyal, some must have gotten here through bad trailer encounters of other kinds, purchased Forest River because they did their homework, or know people who have lived to regret purchases of certain brands. There may even be those here who are (dare I say it) contemplating moving to another manufacturer. Your statement of the fact that gulfstream's lower end products may not be highly regarded is useful information to me. If you or someone else chimes in with reasons why I shouldn't be considering the Amerilite, then it might prevent me from making a serious and expensive mistake. What people dislike and avoid and why is valuable in this process.

[bikendan]

Then I suggest that you might want to visit generic RV forums, like IRV2 or RV.net, where you'll find a lot more posts/threads about Gulfstream and Ameri-lite.
That's where I've seen many Gulfstream discussions.

[bikendan]

Then I suggest that you might want to visit generic RV forums, like IRV2 or RV.net, where you'll find a lot more posts/threads about Gulfstream and Ameri-lite.
That's where I've seen many Gulfstream discussions.
I have seen some slightly older Gulfstream TT's and was not impressed with their construction.

[ChooChooMan74]

My FR dealer aslso deals with Amerilites. In fact, we rented one. Unit was OK. He said the Amerilites were built better than other Gulf Stream products, like the Visa. But, he still preferred the Rockwood Mini Lites.

[Oakman]

I would look at the Rockwood MiniLite models 2104S or 2109S. I think you’d be a lot happier with one of these units. Just saying.

[sylbeach]

Buy a used one and save $. Try it for two years and then decide if u like it hate it or need something different.
Have an 06 bought used for 4 k. Works well for us. Two adults and a mini poodle. On 3rd year now. Will buy another FR when I find a good deal. Had 27 Wildwood and loved that thing. Wish we hadn't sold it.

[1911papa]

Hi I have a 2013 Ameri-lite 16bhc that we bought used. We have had it for 1 year and are very happy with it. Now what you need to remember is this is a entry level travel trailer. I think Amerilite is a good product that if they had a little better quality control would be a great product. We got a good deal is why we sold the pop up and bought this. What I found wrong with our unit; poorly caulked, tub support not screwed down, no support behind plugs and under size tires. Our unit has a roof ac and a fantastic fan in the kitchen area.
I like FR forum and Rv net forums the best because of good information and a generally upbeat feeling. Hope this help your decision.