by admin | Oct 26, 2021 | Juniata Trailer Sales
Fifth wheels are a popular choice for RVers looking to live in their unit. Whether you’re a snowbird leaving Pennsylvania for the winter, or you’re transitioning to full time, you’ll want to make sure you’re mobile with the perfect truck to tow a fifth wheel.
Through numerous innovations and the development of space-saving technology, RV living is more comfortable and more accessible than ever before. If you’ve already decided that a fifth wheel trailer is the best choice for you, then you might be wondering what truck best complements your new trailer.
At Juniata Valley RV, Pennsylvania’s camper-trailer and RV experts, and we also know a thing or two about how to tow a fifth wheel — that’s why we’re going to walk you through the top things to consider when purchasing a new truck, and we’ll also take a look at some of our favorite trucks on the market.
Research Before You Buy
There are a few factors to consider when deciding on a truck to tow your fifth wheel.
Bed Length
When considering a short-bed vs a long-bed truck, it’s important to confirm how much you’ll be driving the truck without the trailer. If you’re someone who will be doing a considerable amount of driving without your fifth wheel RV, you can consider a truck bed under eight feet. However, if you’re purchasing a truck specifically for towing, it’s smart to go with a longer bed — an eight-foot bed.
The benefits of a long bed include best turning clearance, reduced sway, convenient towing and a cost-effective setup. Another benefit to a long-bed truck is the hitch type — short-bed trucks require a sliding hitch which will manually or automatically (depending which type you use) slide to avoid impact during a sharp turn, while the longer bed provides more clearance during sharp turns and can utilize a simple, fixed-hitch setup.
If your truck-bed length is under six feet, you’ll need to purchase a sidewinder pin box setup as well as a fixed hitch. These Sidewinders and sliding hitches tend to be much more cost prohibitive when compared to a standard fixed hitch that you can use on a long-bed truck. To find out if you’d be more comfortable with a longer bed, the best thing to do is take a test drive with a truck able to tow a fifth wheel.
Gas vs. Diesel
While gas trucks are overall less expensive at the initial purchase, and don’t have all of the regular, costly maintenance that a diesel will, diesel engines do typically have a larger towing capacity, and they typically last longer in the end. If you’re going to be hauling your fifth wheel often and for long distances, a diesel engine might be the most cost-effective option for you in the long run. However, a gas vehicle, as long as it has the towing capacity, is also capable of towing a fifth wheel RV.
Payload Capacity
When trying to decide if you need a ½-ton, ¾-ton, or 1-ton truck, you first need to decide what size trailer you want. Weather you’ve already picked out your trailer or not, here is a general rule of thumb you can follow:
Fifth-wheel RV under 30 ft long = ½-ton truck
Fifth-wheel RV 39-ft to 30-ft long = ¾-ton truck
Fifth-wheel RV 40+ feet = 1-ton truck
Of course, to be sure you select the right size truck, you need to confirm your trailer’s loaded weight, and compare that number to your truck’s weight rating before locking in any purchases.
Dually vs. SRW
Going back to many of the previous answers here, the question “do I need a dually?” can be easily answered by analyzing how often and how far you plan to tow a fifth wheel RV. In short, a dually is not required to tow a fifth wheel. However, the dual wheels do help stabilize the truck and therefore reduce sway while towing. They also provide a higher weight capacity. That being said, dual rear wheels may affect your comfort during daily driving — in the end, the decision is up to you.
It’s important to note that some trucks also offer factory fifth wheel prep packages. If you’re buying a new truck from a dealer, this may be something you want to look into. Many packages are specific to the trailer manufacturer, so you’ll want to keep that in mind as you make any decisions about a factory-prep package. Now that you know the factors to consider when looking for a truck, let’s take a look at some of our favorite trucks for towing a fifth wheel RV.
The Ford F-350 is one of our personal favorites when it comes to fifth wheel towing. With the ability to tow trailers up to 33 feet and tow capacity of 18,000 pounds, you won’t have to worry with how heavy your trailer is. This truck also offers a Camper Package SRW, as well as many other features to make hauling a trailer safer and more convenient than ever before.
Remember talking about a factory-installed hitch? This Ram offers it. And even better, it boasts a 15,000-pound towing capacity. This powerful truck can be the premier companion to your fifth wheel RV.
When affordability is a concern, the Chevrolet Silverado may be the best truck to tow a fifth wheel. Fit with a diesel engine, a full-length bed and an installed hitch, this heavy-duty vehicle can tow a fifth wheel trailer up to 14,500 pounds.
Fit with a trailer-brake controller, rear-vision camera and forward-collision alert, this truck is one of the safest trailers for hauling a fifth wheel. Offering a 6,374-pound payload rating and a 18,500-pound tow rating, this 6.6L Duramax Turbo-Diesel will get the job done.
Pennsylvania’s Fifth Wheel RV Dealer
These are just a few of our favorite trucks to tow a fifth wheel as there are many trucks on the market today. The best thing to do is find a truck that works for your fifth wheel using the criteria outlined above. Find something that’s comfortable for you to drive, because your safety is the number-one priority.
If you’re still looking for your perfect fifth wheel RV, Juniata Valley RV offers a large variety of fan-favorite new and used fifth wheels.
Our dedicated staff is happy to answer any of your questions about the best vehicles for towing, and if you already have a truck, we’ll help you find a fifth wheel that’s compatible with your trucks towing capacity. Juniata Valley RV is ready to help you with your next adventure.
by admin | Sep 13, 2021 | Juniata Trailer Sales
At Juniata Valley RV, we have multiple brands of RVs on our lot at any moment. Why? Because our customers come first, and nothing is more important than the satisfaction of everyone that walks through our doors. We like to know all about the camper brands and styles we sell. This includes knowing everything there is to know about NuCamp.
One thing we make sure of before we put a brand of RVs on our lot is the quality and commitment of that brand – and we trust NuCamp RVs to follow through. Below, we’ll tell you why the manufacturer has our trust and a few things you should know about them.
One of the reasons we love having NuCamp RVs on our lot is their dedicated craftspeople. NuCamp has a high standard when it comes to the quality of their RVs, and the people they choose to craft these RVs abide by and deeply honor these standards. They treat their customers like family, and we do too. When we have similar standards to an RV manufacturer, we know it’s a relationship for life.
All About NuCamp’s Names
Though the name might be new to you, the company itself has been around for many years. Pleasant Valley Teardrop Trailers adopted the name in 2016, and in early 2017, they rolled out the TAB 400, a step above the original TAB 320.
They Build Some of the Best
NuCamp uses only the highest-grade materials – from the aluminum framing to their birch interiors, they take pride in their hard work and strive for perfection. However, perfection can’t always be achieved, and they make it right anytime a customer isn’t satisfied.
When they craft their trailers and RVs, they keep everyone in mind. From the weekend warriors to full-time RVers, they want everyone to be happy with a NuCamp in every way: functionally, practically and aesthetically.
If this has piqued your interest, here are a few other products they have: TAG Teardrop Trailers, TAB Teardrop Campers, TAB Clamshell Campers, TAB 400 Teardrop Campers, Circus Truck Campers, AVIA Luxury Trailer and the Barefoot Caravan.
We know a NuCamp RV won’t suit everyone, and that’s why we sell many other RV brands, types, and models at our dealership. Here are just a few:
We keep a full line of travel trailers, fifth wheels, and campers in stock for you, and if your RV needs repairs, we have a full-service RV repair facility and our own RV parts store to have you and your family back on the road in no time!
NuCamp RVs sell lightning fast at Juniata Valley RV, and we can barely keep them on our lot!
But we love our NuCamp teardrop trailers, and we hope you come by to check them out. Or, stop by our website or give us a call!
by admin | Jun 21, 2021 | Juniata Trailer Sales
Whether you are trying to determine which kind of RV you should buy, or you’re curious to how many RV types exist, this article will answer all your questions. An RV is a huge investment, but a very practical and rewarding one. The popularity of RVs is on the rise, and younger generations, like millennials, are surging sales as they are discovering the comfort and versatility of RV living.
Pros & Cons by RV Type
All RVs can be classified as either motorized (you drive it) or towable (you pull it). Deciding which RV type is best for you depends on your budget, driving preference, and what features matter most to you. Both types of RV yield the basic offerings like kitchens, bathrooms, and bedrooms in various shapes and sizes. However, here are some key differences between them:
Motorhomes
Pros:
– Can pull a boat or automobile behind.
– Drives more like an automobile, making it easier to maneuver on the road and in parking lots.
– You can switch between cabin and coach without getting out of the vehicle.
– Don’t need to use a tow vehicle.
Cons:
– Usually more expensive to purchase and maintain than towable RVs.
– Not fuel efficient compared to regular road vehicles.
– Larger motorhomes can be difficult to drive in small parking lots or on narrow roads.
Towable RVs
Pros:
– Are more affordable and less maintenance than motorhomes.
– Are detachable once parked, making daily travel easier on tow vehicle.
– Can handle off-road driving better than motorhomes.
– More living space for size because there are no driving components.
Cons:
– Puts extra strain on your tow vehicle.
– Cannot tow a car or boat behind.
– Harder to maneuver when in reverse.
Motorhomes: Motorized RV Classes
Class A RV/Diesel Pusher
Length: 21 to 45 ft.
MPG: 8-14 (Diesel) / 6-10 (Gas)
Average Cost: $50,000 to $250,000 and up!
Comfortably sleeping two to six people, Class A RVs are the most spacious and provide a comfortable ride on the road. With the luxury of space comes cost, making these RV types the most expensive to own. Diesel engines are preferred in Class A RVs for more power and better fuel efficiency. They go by the name “diesel pushers” because the engines are located towards the rear of the coach, thus “pushing” the RV down the road. This gives them a quieter ride compared to gas engines located in the front. Class A gas RVs are shorter, have less power, and must have the engines replaced more often than their diesel counterparts. Class A motorhomes with diesel or gas engines have comparable amenities, so it comes down to personal preference when deciding which is best.
Class B RV (Camper Van)
Length: 17 to 19 ft.
MPG: 18-25 (Diesel) / 10 -25 (Gas)
Average Cost: $40,000 to $80,000
These RV types get the nickname “camper van” because they look more like a van more than a motorhome. They come in both diesel and gas engines and are the smallest motorhome class. They can sleep one to four people and are perfect for weekend getaways due to their small size and maneuverability. Be aware that some Class B motorhomes don’t have self-contained toilets or fresh water tanks.
Class C RV
Length: 20 to 31 ft.
MPG: 14-18 (Diesel) / 8-15 (Gas)
Average Cost: $50,000 to $100,000
Being easily recognized by the “cab-over” or overhang that houses a bed or extra storage above the driving cab, class C RVs provide the same features as a Class As, but are smaller and thus more affordable and easier to maneuver. You can expect some pop-outs to expand floor space and amenities like a toilet, kitchen, living area and space enough to sleep up to eight people.
Towable RVs: Trailer RV Types
Travel Trailers
Length: 4 to 36 ft.
Average Cost: $10,000 to $45,000
These kinds of RVs are all pulled by a towing vehicle connected with a bumper hitch or hitch frame that extends from the front of the trailer. The greatest advantage travel trailer RVs have is versatility. They can be as small or as large as you want, fitting any buyers’ budget and preferences. Most standard travel trailers feature sleeping quarters, kitchens, bathrooms, living and entertainment areas. Some may increase their space through slide-out compartments, making it easier to walk or stand depending on the RV type. Common travel trailer types include: classic, teardrop, A-frame, expandable and pop-up.
Fifth-Wheels
Length: 22 – 40 ft.
Average Cost: $75,000 to $100,000
With a dual wheel axle trailer, an over-cab, and a gooseneck hitch fifth-wheel RVs are usually pulled by a powerful truck. Fifth-wheels offer some of the most space for living and storage options for your belongings. This RV type shares all the features found in larger towable RVs, including the ability to detach the trailer at the campsite, making daily travel easier for your tow vehicle.
Toy Haulers
Length: 18 – 40 ft.
Average Cost: $12,000 to $250,000
Toy haulers combine a garage with a towable RV. They accommodate snowmobiles, ATVs and dirt bikes as well as other and sports “toys” like motorcycles, bikes and kayaks. Heavy duty foldable doors located in the rear of the trailer can be used as a ramp to load your belongings. Depending on the size of the garage, your living space will be limited compared to a towable RV of similar length. Toy haulers come in both travel trailer and fifth-wheel RV types.
Truck Campers
Truck campers neither qualify as motorized nor towable RVs, as they are “mounted” in a bed of a pickup truck. Although they have similar features to smaller trailer RV types, 42 states don’t count them officially as an RV. This is because they are so small that they can be carried on a regular vehicle, so truck campers are considered more cargo than a vehicle themselves. They do make camping anywhere possible and give you a small taste of the RV life, but don’t plan sleeping more than a few comfortably.
When you’re ready for your first RV or ready for an upgrade, Juniata Valley RV is here to help. We have a variety of towable and motorized units for sale here in Pennsylvania. If you’re not sure what you’re looking for just yet, our expert staff is here to help. Contact us online, call or stop in today!
by admin | May 10, 2021 | Juniata Trailer Sales
You’ve thought about it, looked through your finances and made a plan. It’s time to purchase a new RV. Once you’ve committed to buying a new unit, the list of questions comes flooding in. Motorcoach or trailer? Which color scheme? How much storage do I need? How many beds do I want? The list can be overwhelming.
Here at Juniata Valley, we recommend most people choose a Class C motorhome. We prefer Class C’s because they’re mid-sized at a middle price point, they’re easier to drive, and they come with more flexibility.
Mid-sized Motorhome
Many people think you can’t get the luxuries of a Class A in a Class C. Although you have less space than a Class A, you have much more space than a Class B. The Class C is the perfect medium in motorhomes, the one Goldilocks would prefer!
Modern Class C motorhomes have many sleek, out of sight options for extra storage and sleeping space. This includes over-cab beds, convertible dinettes, cabin storage and more. Class C motorhomes offer many of the same coach amenities of a Class A as well, like a separated living room and a dry bath. Enjoy all these luxuries in a motorized vehicle with a Class C. No worries about how much your truck can tow, plus the option to bring your bikes, kayaks and motorcycles along in a cargo trailer.
Save Money
The money-saving aspect of a Class C motorhome is dual-sided. Class C’s cost less upfront and in the long run.
Class A motorhomes can cost you up to $2 million! Our preferred manufacturer here at Juniata, Winnebago, supplies Class A motorhomes around $300,000 to $400,000. On the other hand, the top-of-the-line Class C Winnebago motorhomes we have in stock run between $100,000 to $200,000. A much smaller price tag when both RVs reach about 30 feet in length.
Aside from initial purchase price, Class C motorhomes cost less in maintenance and upkeep. Being smaller and lighter on average, a Class C has a much better fuel efficiency. The cost of gas is even less when compared to Class A diesel pushers. Class C’s are, in general, much cheaper to maintain. Service costs for Class C motorhomes are less than Class A motorhomes, even when requesting similar services.
Drive Safer
While Class C’s can be more than 30 feet long, they’re shorter than Class A’s on average. Struggling with tight corners and fitting into parking spots are a nightmare of the past with Class C’s. Although being behind the wheel of a Class C can be daunting to any new RVer, it’s no doubt much less stressful than handling a 45-foot Class A. Class C motorhomes are also lower to the ground, and a lower center of gravity reduces the risk of toppling over.
Although no one wants to think about crashing their motorhome, the possibility of a wreck still hangs over your head. Although a Class A may seem safer, more like a bus than anything else, Class C’s are a lot safer for head-on collisions.
In an RV, rear collisions are generally pretty safe. It’s the front collisions, where the cab is, that you have to worry about. Class C motorhomes have a large hood and engine in front of the cab, unlike the flat-fronted Class A motorhomes. They also include crash boxes designed to take the impact of the collision instead of the drivers. Class C motorhomes also come with airbags, which are normally left out of a Class A because you sit so far away from the dash.
Camp Where You Want
The last major benefit of a Class C, although the list goes on, is the ability to maneuver on more roads and stay in more campgrounds. When planning your Class A route, you have to make sure not to pass under any low bridges or overpasses. You also have to make sure none of the roads are too tight, including the ones in the campground, and be confident you can make all the necessary tight turns. Class C’s are generally shorter, in both length and height, making trips easier to plan.
Many campgrounds also have length limits on their sites. It can be hard to find a place to stay in a Class A, especially if you’re looking to stay at government-sponsored sites. Most national and state parks can’t accommodate RVs more than 30 feet long. Choosing a Class C gives you more options, so you can stay at the campground you prefer.
With comfort, cost, safety and camp options in mind, Class C motorhomes are the clear winner for most RV shoppers. If you’re looking for a new motorhome or a new towable unit, Juniata Valley RV has plenty of options on the lot. If we don’t have the unit you’re looking for, we may be able to order it for you. Stop by any day of the week for a conversation with some of our knowledgeable staff members about choosing the right RV for your family.
by admin | Apr 5, 2021 | Juniata Trailer Sales
Juniata Valley RV is a Flying W award-winning Winnebago dealer, and we love this brand of RV. We carry Winnebago travel trailers and motorhomes, and we’ve seen the Winnebago name speak for itself with years of happy customers. If you’re looking to drive off the lot with this classic RV brand, we’d be happy to help. The first task in narrowing down which Winnebago you want is choosing your model. Luckily, we put together this list of the best Winnebago campers to help you start your search.
Hike
The Hike is Winnebago’s perfect marriage of luxury style and off-road potential. Built with offset wheels, off-road tires and off-road fenders, the Hike is made for those who venture “beyond the beaten path” in their travels. There’s also plenty of room to bring along your favorite camping toys and tools. Store items in the front storage container, with room for a battery, LP tanks or adventure gear. The Hike is also built with a tough exoskeleton to strap in your bikes, kayaks and other outdoor toys while on the road.
Travato
This is one of our favorite Winnebago Class B options, and we’re not alone. The Travato is the top selling camper van in North America. It features energy and fuel-efficient systems, like the new Pure3 Advanced Energy System. It provides 9,600 watt-hours of power with automotive-grade technology, making extended off-grid stays more than possible in the Travato. Aside from its advanced power tech, the Travato earns its place among the Best Winnebago campers with its all-season roof and sidewall insulation. It includes above-floor waterlines, heated tanks, Eco-Hot water system and more for warm camping all winter long.
Minnie Winnie
Winnebago carries “Minnie” units towables and motorhomes. We’re first going to highlight the Minnie Winnie Class C as one of the best Winnebago campers. This coach is the king of flexibility in every interior room. With six floorplans to choose from, there’s one for every family. For sleeping arrangements, choose from a rear bedroom, cabover bunk, bunk beds and sofa beds. In the living spaces, the Minnie has a U-shaped dinette that converts to a bed, and some floorplans include theater seating. These features are just the beginning of flexibility when considering all the options the Minnie motorhome has to offer.
Minnie Towables
If motorized isn’t for you, but you’re still after small stature, the Minnie towable series might be the answer. These lightweight campers are easy to pull and maximize a compact amount of space with expert design. Aside from 44 cubic feet of exterior storge, the Minnie showcases interior comfort and design. Relax in the comforts of home with the queen bed, spacious galley and large private bathroom. Enjoy stylish, bright and easy-to-clean linoleum surfaces, three-burner cooktop, double-door refrigerator and watch the season’s biggest games with the outdoor entertainment center.
EKKO
The all-new EKKO had to be on our list of the best Winnebago campers. This brand new design by Winnebago touts the efficiency of a camper van with the capacity of a Class C. The EKKO also includes four-wheel drive making it easy to head off-road and off-grid. It’s equipped with three solar panels, a second alternator for charging batteries while driving and a 50-gallon freshwater tank for extended stays.
Voyage
The Voyage travel trailer by Winnebago is here to help you venture outdoors for extended stays, and bring the comforts of home with you. Most floorplans include everything from washer dryer prep to a full fridge and king bed, so spacious you’ll forget you’re on the road. Until, of course, you spot the ever-changing window views every time you tow to a new site.
View
This classic Class C is a fan-favorite for Winnebago owners, and was an easy fit for this list of the best Winnebago campers. Enjoy upscale comforts off-grid, thanks to the dependable diesel Mercedes-Benz Sprinter chassis. Escape for longer with standard 200-watt solar, a 2,000-watt inverter and optional lithium smart batteries. Eye-catching final touches range from optional theater seating to classy curved countertops.
Inspire
Our final addition to our best Winnebago campers is an obvious choice, the Class A Inspire. The Inspire is a diesel pusher well-suited for Winnebago’s accessibility enhancement options. These include everything from a platform wheelchair lift to a roll-in shower. No accessory was spared, down to undercarriage lighting and a Pet Pal leash tiedown.
Choosing your Winnebago model is only the first decision. Juniata Valley RV is here to help you through the entire process, from floorplans to financing. If you’re interested in a new Winnebago, our knowledgeable sales staff will help you find the perfect camper. While these are the best Winnebago campers in our opinion, Winnebago makes a wide variety of trailers and motorhomes. We encourage you to dig deep, do your own research, and give us a call with any questions or when you’re ready to buy.
by admin | Feb 1, 2021 | Juniata Trailer Sales
Aliner campers continue to be the go-to style for both new and experienced RVers. These small units are light, easy to tow, and fit in almost any campsite. They have all the benefits and comfort of RVing without the five-thousand pound, 30-foot tow-behind beast. Aliner, one of the most popular compact camper brands, offers a lot of amenities in a little space. These snug little towables sleep up to four with a dry weight of just over 1,000 pounds. While there are plenty of different designs to choose from, here are six of our favorite Aliner features.
Tinted windows
The tinted windows in Aliners provide privacy and protection. The dark windows, plus the day/night shades, provide plenty of privacy at all times of day and night. The dark tint on the windows also helps keep these campers cool. Tinted windows block out some of the sunlight, preventing it from getting too hot inside.
Dinette bed
Sleep four in these 15-foot popups thanks to the dinette bed. The booth seating and table easily convert to a 46”x76” bed. Thanks to the creative design, the whole family can camp in this lightweight option.
Spare tire kit
Be prepared for anything with the spare tire kit. Aliner campers are designed with a spare tire attached so you never get stuck in a sticky situation. Small doesn’t mean sacrifice with Aliner’s genius designs.
Indoor microwave
One feature that should never be overlooked is the microwave. The magic of having food ready in one to three minutes is too often taken for granted! Aliners, like most compact campers, have an “outdoor kitchen” feature, which refers to an outdoor stovetop burner in this case. But the beauty of a microwave, despite the speedy food prep, is the indoor comforts. No worries about trying to cook up dinner in the cold or the dark with your outdoor kitchen!
External shower
Limited space doesn’t have to mean sweaty kids! Keep clean on long camping weekends with Aliner’s external shower. An outdoor shower saves indoor space, and is easy to store when you’re towing down the highway.
Sofa bed
Rear sofa beds provide comfort day and night! The comfy cushions make a great couch for reading, talking or sheltering from rainy weather. When it’s time for bed, just flip the backrest down for a roomy mattress that sleeps two to three. Aliners are known to make the most out of limited space.
The list of features worth bragging about when it comes to Aliners is long. If you’re interested in learning more or purchasing a trailer from Juniata Valley RV please contact us online or give us a call at (877) 714-0415. Our team of RV-loving experts would be happy to help out!
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