Deciding if I should keep my Class C

[HalfShadows]

I have been vacillating between 2 set ups for my adventure. One is a 20 ft 1987 Class C which I have owned for 6 years or doing a cargo trailer build. I really like my Class C but it requires some maintenance before going on the road. And outfitting to meet my initial needs (Solar A/C Mini Split etc. would require much thought and time whereas a Cargo Trailer Would be a clean Slate and require less maintenance (leaks ,aging structural and components). I have been leaning towards the cargo trailer. I like the advantage of the Class C (Hopping in the driver's seat and going) But I also like the idea of untethering a cargo trailer and use the tow vehicle for exploration and town runs plus i can Install a much larger solar array because of the unencumbered real estate of the cargo trailer. Any thoughts?

 

[bigsallysmom]

I bought a high top van with a sloping roof. Would love to have a big, flat surface for solar. Said van cannot get me to gnarly places due to low underside. If you get a truck to pull it you can put on a camper shell and organize all your sporting stuff inside and even overhead room for water sports equipment.

 

[tx2sturgis]

I've owned both a small older Class A and a newer pickup with topper that pulls a 6x12 cargo trailer. I sleep in the pickup topper, and daytime activities are in the trailer (relaxing, hobbies, tv, cooking, etc)

I prefer the PU-TRLR combo because of the ability to plant the trailer and run errands or sightseeing in the pickup. 

Plus, the cargo trailer requires a lot less maintenance, only has what I want installed, is fairly light, and yearly costs are minimal. Resale value will be something close to what I paid for it, if I decided to sell it.

The downsides are the labor and cost to build out, limited acceptance in RV parks, altho campgrounds are fine with it. Less amenities, in my case, but I'm camping, not 'glamping'. I cant just crawl out of bed, still in my skivies, and turn the key and go, again, not an issue for me.

Total length of my rig is 36 feet, and I'm getting around 14 mpg on the highway.

Overall, I'm very happy with the setup.

 

[DannyB1954]

I wish they made better trailer locks. A battery operated grinder will go through most of them in about 15 seconds. A cargo van is easy to steal and hard to trace. unless camping with others I would worry leaving it somewhere.

 

[HalfShadows]

This may sound silly but another priority for me is to install a movie theater in the cargo trailer. I enjoy the theater experience when I watch a good movie. Not that I watch Movies all the time. I plan on prospecting a lot. But when chillin a good movie provides a good escape and entertainment for me. I am thinking 8.5X28 or 20. And a place for my Kayak. But I sure like my ClassC. Probably keep it for back up and let the kids use it. I want Sizable solar system to run the Mini - Split A/C system. I can scrimp on the kitchen and sleeping area.

 

[Riverman]

I have a nice cargo trailer and a small shower stall (with hot water) would be a great addition.

 

[tx2sturgis]

I wish they made better trailer locks. A battery operated grinder will go through most of them in about 15 seconds. A cargo van is easy to steal and hard to trace. unless camping with others I would worry leaving it somewhere.

You can buy the shrouded shackle, discus, or puck style locks, and they make it a bit harder to grind thru the shackle. 

And you can buy 'consumer' level trailer tracking GPS units. 

But a really determined thief with power tools can still make off with the goods.

 

[skyl4rk]

I like being able to go from the drivers seat to the bed or living area without going outside. Plus, you already have something that works, and you probably have worked many bugs out of it.

 

[Dingfelder]

I'd like to mix a wheel lock or two with locking lug nuts. Otherwise I'm as worried about someone just hooking up a truck to my trailer and towing it off.

Where do you go to get a better door lock? A regular locksmith, or an RV place?

 

[tx2sturgis]

Coupler locks, cable locks or chains passed thru the wheels and up into the springs or frame, shrouded padlocks for the doors, alarm systems, and GPS tracking units (and stickers!) can all help deter theft. Some campers recommend removing the wheels, or at least one of them. 

Or, just take the trailer with you. 

Theft in the boonies is probably less likely than it being stolen from your own driveway.

 

[HalfShadows]

I would definitely install a shower, hot water heater, and a substantial fresh water tank system. I have a 1972 Honda CT 90 I might bring as well. May trade in my F150 for a F250 or F350 diesel. This adventure plan, especially the research has been an escape for me for the past few months. I am going to start off by visiting family and friends around the country. I will attend a RTR and possibly meet new friends with shared interests, and meet travelers on the road. My house will soon no longer be a home but just a house with memories. 90% chance of selling it within a year. I believe living on the road will be a healing experience for me.

 

[Katherine]

I have been vacillating between 2 set ups for my adventure. One is a 20 ft 1987 Class C which I have owned for 6 years or doing a cargo trailer build. I really like my Class C but it requires some maintenance before going on the road. And outfitting to meet my initial needs (Solar A/C Mini Split etc. would require much thought and time whereas a Cargo Trailer Would be a clean Slate and require less maintenance (leaks ,aging structural and components). I have been leaning towards the cargo trailer. I like the advantage of the Class C (Hopping in the driver's seat and going) But I also like the idea of untethering a cargo trailer and use the tow vehicle for exploration and town runs plus i can Install a much larger solar array because of the unencumbered real estate of the cargo trailer. Any thoughts?

It all depends on your needs and economic condition. If you really love the Class C and have enough money to maintain it, you can keep it. Because it has ages, it's hard to sell at a very high price. If someone who wants to buy at a reasonable price, you can sell it.

 

[ZoNiE]

Have a set of these on a cargo trailer.
Some asshole tried to pound it off with a sledgehammer. Could not.
https://amazon.com/gp/product/B00J0ABROY/ref=oh_aui_search_detailpage?ie=UTF8&psc=1