Foretravel Owners' Forum

Greetings!

James and Susan here along with Alex (13) and Elizabeth (12).  Susan and I have made our living for the last 9 years running online communities. For various reasons we've decided to go on the road full time for at least a couple years and show the kids just how much bigger the world is than what they have experienced so far. :-)

As long time online community folks, we naturally go looking for forum communities when we think we know enough to START asking the questions we need to find answers to.  However we also know that there are bound to be entire areas of knowledge that we don't even know exist. :-)

Quick background: I've a background in engineering (ex-Navy) software and web development as well as a woodworker and general JOAT type.  I lived on a Choey Lee Lion 35 teak hulled sloop for several years then a Bristol 40 Yawl.  My wife Susan is a graphic artist/web designer/content author by trade and a fabulous cook who believes recipes are more like a general starting point. IOW she can rarely replicate a specific successful dish ;-). Susan and I were married while I was living on the Bristol and we lived aboard together for about a year and a half.  Then pregnancy made a med style mooring in winter a BAD IDEA for her to continue and we bought our first traditional home (1930's Sears house) where we lived for 11 years. Recent events encouraged us to move on to our next adventure, and here we are!

Our son is a computer engineer/developer/scientist in training, as long as he's got a laptop and some quiet space he's happy. Well as long as he can walk/scoot around outside, he thinks better moving I think.

Our daughter is a MAJOR foodie with amazing (and constantly growing) mad food skilz. The kitchen is a priority and several of the minor modifications we have in mind are focused around adding counter space.  Ironically, the no slide rigs seem to lend themselves to that better than the rigs with slides, at least based on pics and floor plans.

We've been looking at RVs on and off for about three years (probably hundreds of RVs), and I think we've finally decided that Foretravel is simply the best possible fit for us.  1458 (1999 u320 DGFE) on the MotorHomes of Texas site was our gateway Foretravel and since then we've discovered that we like almost every single one we've looked at online. As a woodworker I LOVE the walnut cabinetry, and the pairing of that with the cream colored upholstery and trim is timeless and very appealing to us.

Ok.  Questions!

We're looking at a trip down to Texas in the next couple weeks to hopefully buy our first Foretravel, but there are some factors that we don't feel we have any where near enough information to evaluate.


• 42 ft vs. 40 ft vs. 36 ft
Just how much impact does length actually have on the availability of camping spaces?  One of the options is a 2005 u270 36' with two slides, another is a 1998 u320 4200 (no slides but great potential for a remodel) and a couple are various u320 40' in the late 1990's through early 2000's.

• Slides?
Several of the units we're looking at have no slides, and as people that understand how living in small spaces work we think we can deal with that.  Given the reduced price on units with no slides, along with the lighter weight, reduced complexity, better thermal insulation etc, we *think* avoiding slides altogether is probably the way to go for us.  BUT we don't have first hand experience with the realities of full timing in an RV, and we're hoping some of the wonderful folks here can share some lessons learned. Especially as we'll have two tween/teens onboard. Yes, we're crazy like that. :)

• Are there any issues such as UV fading or other damage of interior areas that we should be watching for?
• Sound isolation?
How good are Foretravel rigs in general as far as sound isolation between the bedroom at the back and the front of the rig/outside.  We will be modifying the bedroom to be a both bedroom AND home office, and part of that major modification focus will involve sound deadening.  Any experience, insight or suggestions anyone can provide along those lines would be greatly appreciated.

• Quality of mattress?
If we're looking at a 10-15 year old rig, can anyone provide any guidance on the likely quality of the stock mattress?

• Bed to workspace conversion in bedroom?
One of the things we like best about the 1998 4200 is the lack of an engine hump under the bed.  Our thought is to turn the massive rear closet into a work center with pull-out desk, swing out computer monitors etc.  Ideally the bed would fold, lift or otherwise move out of the way during the workday.  Anyone ever seen or had any experience with bedrooms that convert into office space? 

• Best place for having modifications done?
We're strongly leaning towards having FOT make the changes we decide to incorporate in our remodel. I spoke to someone in their shop and was quite impressed with his flexibility and general competence.  Any reason to consider going elsewhere? Does the motorcade discount count towards remodel work?

• Refrigerator longevity?
At least one of the rigs we're looking at has had the fridge replaced.  With 10-15 year old rigs should we be assuming that it needs to be replaced if it has not already happened?

• Towing capacity?
Does anyone know a way to guesstimate rig weight with full tanks?  I see many rigs posted with 10,000 or even 18,000 lb hitch ratings, and the spec sheets kindly made available by a certain person on this forum (many MANY thanks to Barry Beam! Those brochures and floor plans have been invaluable!) sometimes provide GVWR and GCWR, but without a "working rig weight" value I'm stumped on how to compare rigs.  For instance, a 1998 4200 tag axel rig adds 10,000 lbs to GVWR and GCWR, but I've no idea how much the two extra feet, tag axel etc add to the base rig weight.  I hope I've phrased that intelligibly, this is the sort of area I'm feeling my way into.

• Anything specific that we're completely missing that we should be on the lookout for problem wise with late 1990s early 2000 no slide fore travels?
• Anyone have any experience with adding a cab over bunk?
Our daughter has always had a loft bed and her make or break for living on an RV is something similar.  Adding a drop down bunk above the driver/passenger chairs seems like an ideal solution, and I've got a couple potential ways of doing so in mind but would dearly love to hear from anyone that has any actual experience.

• Desk or no Desk?
We've got some ideas for raising the desk height in the DGFE so that it can act as part of the kitchen, but not sure that the space is warranted. How useful have others found a desk in the main space?

Phew.  Welp, I think that's all the questions running around in my head at the moment.  I certainly hope that doesn't overstep the bounds of a first post! :-)

Back to reading other topic/threads here, and thank you in advance for any experience and lessons learned you can share with a family just starting out. And thanks as well to all the people that have spent so much of their time and energy posting information for others (such as ourselves) to benefit from!

James and Susan
Virgina

Howdy James and Susan,  Welcome to the Foreforums!!!  As you have discovered, its a great resource.
You may found have this site, but here's a link to Barry's website, that may have some answers for you.
http://beamalarm.com/foretravel-links/foretravel-links.html (http://beamalarm.com/foretravel-links/foretravel-links.html)
Good Luck in you search!!  Dave A

Another welcome, James and Susan! As owners of a 40' no-slide coach maybe we can give you some perspective. I'll send you a PM with more info later. As former homeschoolers we appreciate the experiences you are planning for your children. We wished we could have done this when our were that age.

First of all, by all accounts a 40' no-tag coach gives you the most basement storage space. The shorter the coach the more sites you will fit into. So far our 40' hasn't been any problem.

The biggest concern I see for you is having sleeping space for four adults. Yes, you children are not legally adults, but for all practical purposes they are. Since you have a boy and a girl, each will need a private bedroom, and I'm assuming that you and your wife will also want one. Perhaps some sort of bunk arrangement may work, at least for a time. Such coaches DO exist, but they are rare. The loft over the driver's area is certainly one possibility.

The mattress probably will need to be replaced, but that's true of what you would have in a S&B anyway. At least Foretravel uses a standard queen mattress, not a short one or one that has big chunks cut off from the corners. The refrigerator (and other appliances) will probably need to be replaced sooner rather than later. We made the decision, LONG before we were ready to buy, that when the RV refrigerator in our coach died we would replace it with a residential unit. As it turned out, the refrigerator died between the time we saw the coach and the time we picked it up, so at least we didn't have to figure out what direction we were going to do - we just had to find a residential unit that would fit. A washer/dryer is nice but takes up closet space. You will need to decide for yourselves whether the convenience of having the machine is worth the loss of storage space.

I think I would go non slide 42 foot. I have gotten in everywhere I have tried to that I wanted to go that is.  I had a 34 foot and a 36 foot and now 42 foot.  The desk in my coach we cut down but it was single pedestal but if it was a double I would have kept it.  I think FT is the place to have the work done.
As to the drop down bunk.  That is a new one though there is a 42 foot out there with bunks that just sold in fact.  I think it is a great idea and I too came from a sail boat to a FT.

Foretravel made a few coaches with side bunk beds stacked.

With your IT load, consider Verizon 100 GB double data special that will expire soon, if not already. A good XLTE AWS site can be quite fast.

I believe bunks are in one of the 2 floorplans available in the new Realm.

in my 01 with two slides the closet is big enough that you could put two bunks in there too.  You would have to design it so the floor opened but there is enough room and you could try  to figure out how to have some closet space next to them still.

There were pictures relatively recently of a Sprinter-sized machine with a Murphy Bed that folded down on top of a pair og folding lounge chairs. I think Michelle posted it.

We replaced the mattress with a Sleep Number RV bed from the dreaded CW. Love it. (same size as regular Queen)

Great feedback!  Thanks for all the comments.  The biggest thing that I think is driving the decision at this point is the question of how much impact a 42' instead of 40' or 36' will have on our ability to get into campgrounds.  Really appreciate your comments on that John! :-)  We're really excited about the ability to take an older unit and renovate it to be exactly what we want, and the Foretravels seem to age so well it's amazing.

Anyone else have experience that echoes John S regarding availability of slips/slots/pads?



I'll have to see if I can find the pictures of the Murphy bed you mentioned, that's the kind of solution we're thinking about if we go with the 42.  The lack of a diesel hump under the bed would (I think) be a huge benefit in making it work.  My wife's mentioned the sleep number bed several times, you like it better than one of the visco-elastic foam options?


:: nods :: I've looked at some of the convertible units that go from couch to bunk bed or loft and desk. I think it would be a brilliant use of space, but I think Susan's a bit iffy about it blocking the window when opened.


We've looked at severe units with bunk beds, but the kids are getting to the point that a bit more separation is probably on their wish list, or will be soon! :-)  We're thinking about putting sound deadening curtains on hospital curtain tracks in the ceiling.  One with a "U" shape around a jackknife sofa for our son, and another to close off the cab area (driver's and passenger seats and the cab loft bed) for our daughter.  Then build a soundproof bulkhead separating the bathroom from the master bedroom. EVERYONE gets some quiet and privacy! :-)


That's a GREAT idea about Verizon, my phone's up for renewal anyway. If they haven't ended to promotion I should probably do that tomorrow!


I've make a loooot of trips to Barry's site, it's been a major planning tool for us.


Thanks! Great insights, it's very much appreciated.  We know we're lucky (and have worked VERY hard) to be able to do this now. :-)  We've got the STRONG feeling that if we don't start traveling with them soon, teenageritis will set in and getting them onto a rig... Well, it'll be an issue.  I think we've got a window right now where they are excited an enthusiastic about the opportunity, and we plan to grab it while we can.

Regarding private space, we've planning on partitioning off a section for each of them with sound deadening curtains on heavy duty hospital curtain tracks in the ceiling.  Not sure how the details will work out yet, but one thing living on a boat and building complex websites has taught us: If you have time, money and creativity you can do almost ANYTHING! Especially the creativity and willingness to put in the work, those are key. We have noticed a massive dearth of RV floor plans that provide multiple private zones with any kind of sound isolation, so we plan to push the envelope a bit, as we always seem to do... :p

To re-iterate from the top, what are everyone's feelings about how much a 42' restricts your access to good camping spots?  We've got a short list of Foretravel rigs, and I think we are probably planning a trip next week down to Nacogdoches to visit F.O.T and Motorhomes of Texas (and maybe Encore RV if they are still in business) along with a couple of private sellers along the way.  I'm sort of leaning towards the space of the 4200 being worth the hassle of occasional difficulties in finding a space, but I don't have the experience to know how BIG a hassle that would be. So we waffle... :)

James
 

James, if you are looking at extensive remodeling have you checked out the 2006 Foretravel Nimbus 4018 Special on the Foretravel website?

Stock #6356C,
$98,198
Category: Pre-Owned      
Mobile Medical Device Display Unit
Wrap Removeable

Looks like you could start with an almost blank slate. 
Just a thought.

James,

It all depends on where you plan to travel. Out west and in the mountains, the shorter, the better as far as finding campsites that a longer coach will fit into. They usually do have a few spots for larger rigs but not always. National Parks can also be a problem. That's why we limited our possible coaches to 35' or shorter. But there are only two of us and a big dog. On the other hand, many RV parks will easily fit longer rigs. BLM land here in the west means you can be as long as you like without a worry.

Big box store parking lots or on street parking may not allow you to extend the slides.

With four on board, the rules change. While we could sleep four, it just would not work on a regular basis. That also goes with slides. My daughter in law worked at a law firm during college that represented clients with warranty work issues. Slideouts were high on the number of cases she saw. Aside from maintenance issues, slides may or may not really be in the way when retracted for driving. Some brands seem to blend in well. With four on board and a couple of teenagers to boot, you will need all the room possible so the advantage mayoutweigh any disadvantage.

We crossed several seas and an ocean on our sailboat but being over on your ear minimizes the time spent trying to get by each other. In the case of the boat, a lot of the time was spent figuring where the next handhold was and how quickly we could reach it.

Good idea to spend time in a lot of coaches and make the salesperson retract the slides so you can see what it would be like underway.

Pierce

What Bill said ... You should really look at this one Foretravel Texas (http://www.foretraveloftexas.com/view-inventory.php?id=540)
2006 Foretravel Nimbus 4018 Special... You maybe able to strike a great deal with Foretravel buy/remodel package.

Also you may think about what kind of other transportation, car, motorcycle ... you will be towing around. Some members tow a garage; all their toys, a car and other junk they like to drag around all in a nice container trailer. If you go with towing a garage way then maybe you can just be fine with a 40'... I'd not look at anything shorter 40' if i were you. The medical office Nimbus i think is one of the best ones out there for some one like you wanting to set it up  ... build to suit if you will.

I wish i could get that one and build the inside from scratch at the factory.
Good luck, you are starting a very exciting journey, enjoy.
BTW I think it is about $108 or $115K I forgot ... I had asked sometime ago. It has about 98K miles.

I talked to David Flanagan this spring about that coach.  Several people have approached him about furnishing the interior, but walked away when estimates exceeded $60,000.  That doesn't mean it couldn't be a good deal for your special needs.  This coach has been for sale for a long time, so I bet the offer price is very negotiable.

I think that Nimbus might fit very well.  As to fitting, I have driven my Foretravels 360K miles.  I have stayed in a lot of different campgrounds and have fit in every one that I have asked about. In a couple cases they say they have a 40 foot limit and that is so they don to get a bad rating on the web but if you tell them y ou can drive they will let you in.  That has happened in two different campgrounds over my 14 years of ownership.  Fishing bridge in Yellowstone will not fit me either but I rather stay in West Yellowstone and Grizzly anyway, or in one of the other campgrounds in the park.  Everywhere else I have fit even on the east coast running the skyline drive or in the state or national parks in the country.  Sure it is easier with my 36 but I have not been shut out yet.  I also spent 260 days on the road last year and 130 so far this year and that means I move around a lot.  I have not stayed in CA or OR but I have camped in every other state in the lower 48.

John S,

Try Mammoth Campground at the northwest corner of Yellowstone. Our favorite, it has many long pull through campsites that are not on top of each other, easy walk to the village and a very short drive to the parking lot for the river hot springs.

We are heading there on Friday. Unfortunately, without the U300 as I can't do too much without worrying about tearing my mesh.

See photos at: mammoth campground yellowstone photos - Google Search (http://www.google.com/search?q=mammoth+campground+yellowstone+photos&rlz=1C5CHFA_enUS504US504&espv=2&biw=1318&bih=647&tbm=isch&tbo=u&source=univ&sa=X&ei=jzdeVPvVCdemyATC4IGoBA&ved=0CB0QsAQ)

June Lake Loop off 395 also has a lot of sites for big rigs. About 4 hours away from us, it's hard to beat. june lake loop photos - Google Search (https://www.google.com/search?q=june+lake+loop+photos&rlz=1C5CHFA_enUS504US504&espv=2&biw=1318&bih=647&tbm=isch&tbo=u&source=univ&sa=X&ei=PTpeVJT3J8mAygTVi4CYDg&ved=0CB0QsAQ)

Pierce

James & Susan,
Sage advice, as you intend to full-time for only a couple years, have a clear understanding of your exit strategy.  Remember that these things are quickly depreciating assets...not real estate.  Go for the motorhome with the least complexity as you do not want to be a grease monkey the whole time.  If you can find one with well cared condition and almost fully depreciated...that's your ticket.

Good luck.

Regarding mattresses: A real Sleep Number bed might provide protection from the temperature and elevation changes associated with travel in a motorhome. Our coach came with a "Sleep Number wannabe." It had ruptured for the previous owner when going over mountains. :o They replaced the damaged portions. The air bed failed at a worn spot on the day I neglected to let air out before going over mountains. :o :o We replaced it with a queen size viscous foam/latex mattress made to our preferences. It was built to our taste at a reasonable price. We've been very pleased with the mattress. :) It was built by Houston Mattress Factory. They also build custom Murphy beds, special mattresses for boats, trucks, RVs, etc.

Thanks for the great feedback all! :-)

We're down here in Nacogdoches right now, flew into Dallas Monday and spent the night so we could hit F.O.T. this morning followed by a somewhat longer time at Motorhomes of Texas.  Lots of great rigs at both locations and I think we've decided to stick with non-slide options.  The space from the slides is nice, but we loved the layout of several of the older rigs more than the newer ones, and the money saved can go towards make all the customizations we really want.

The most important thing was that we confirmed that we have absolutely found our brand.  We loved the cabinetry, the design, pretty much everything about all the rigs we looked at.  Well, not a big fan of the oak in a lot of the u270's, but that's just personal preference. :) We have a few more rigs to look at tomorrow, and then we have to sit down and work up total cost of acquisition for the various choices on the short list.  Especially liked two u320 rigs; a 1999 DGFE and a 1997 WTBI.  Both were much older rigs, but in amazing condition, the 1997 in particular had been very heavily updated.

Tomorrow is the factory tour, then heading out to see some other rigs in the area. :-) 
Hope to narrow things down and make a final choice over the weekend and buy it sometime next week.  Hopefully we'll be driving it home next week!

James and Susan

Decisions, decisions! We'll be looking forward to hearing from you soon. Be sure to do three things: 1. Join Motorcade while you're there. 2. Update your signature to reflect your coach. 3. Post some pictures.

On edit: Be sure to share your route home so that if you are going to be near any of us we can try to meet up with you. Also, we can possibly be of assistance should you need it.

Will do. :)

Tomorrow we're going to see a 1998 u320 4200 that we have pretty high hopes for.  Everything we liked today, AND a massive closet space that we can turn into an awesome office? ^.^d

Motorhomes of Texas had a truly remarkable selection of rigs, including a couple of great used Newell 45's.  Susan has all the pictures we took, I'll see if I can get her to post a few of them.  Didn't realize the Ladies driving school was going to be happening today, it was quite a crowd!

James