Looking To Get a Toyhauler 5er

woodyrock1 · 02-13-2019, 08:59 AM

Hello all, we have been thinking on getting rid of our Rockwood Signature Ultra Lite 8280WS 5er' and getting a Thunderbolt Toyhauler At this point we know we want a tri axle model but not sure on which one. As far as what I plan on putting in the garage is two 4 wheeler/quads and kayaks. I have a TV that can handle any model so that isn't a worry. What I am hoping to get out of this post is pros n cons that Thunderbolt owners have come across. A big issue that I am having is finding a model that I can access bedroom and at least part of the kitchen when slides are in. Also i'm not a fan of the residential ref. as I will be doing a lot of boondocking but I know I can get by with battery upgrade and solar power which I'd probably do so again this isn't a deal breaker. Hit me with the good and bad please.

redhooker · 02-14-2019, 07:51 PM

We have a 375amp- we can access bedroom, both baths with slides in. Kitchen only the fridge, sink and a couple cabinets without moving the slide out a bit. The newer version of ours is the 381amp and looks better for kitchen access but for whatever reason I have not seen one at any dealers- or any videos of one in real life either.

Homebrew · 02-17-2019, 07:07 AM

Once you find the model you like I recommend custom ordering one from Jeff Couch.
You will be able to get the frig you want with the solar and battery upgrades along with many more options that are never listed.
The only thing I hate on our Thunderbolt is the awning. It’s so high and impossible to reach to pull down one corner. It has the auto dump feature which is nice until it dumps on you.

woodyrock1 · 02-21-2019, 08:07 AM

Quote:

Originally Posted by Homebrew

Once you find the model you like I recommend custom ordering one from Jeff Couch.
You will be able to get the frig you want with the solar and battery upgrades along with many more options that are never listed.
The only thing I hate on our Thunderbolt is the awning. It’s so high and impossible to reach to pull down one corner. It has the auto dump feature which is nice until it dumps on you.

LOL.. auto dump feature

woodyrock1 · 02-21-2019, 08:19 AM

Redhooker I believe the 382amp replaced the 381amp. I do like the way it looks.
Strike that, DW just spoke to Forest River directly and the 381amp isn't even done yet. Apparently FR jumped the gun and put the prototype out there which apparently caused tons of phone calls regarding the 381amp. They are working the bugs out of the 381amp so who knows how long that will take.

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