Lightweight vs. Standard Frame RV
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Joined: May 2006
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From: Huntersville, NC
Lightweight vs. Standard Frame RV
Does anyone have an opinion about which is better, a Lightweight or Standard Frame RV?
I'm speaking from the sense of lightweight aluminum frame construction vs. standard wood frame construction. The weight differance is obvious but will aluminum frames hold up better in the long run as compared to wood construction?
Thanks!!
I'm speaking from the sense of lightweight aluminum frame construction vs. standard wood frame construction. The weight differance is obvious but will aluminum frames hold up better in the long run as compared to wood construction?
Thanks!!
Senior Member
Joined: Oct 2006
Posts: 1,244
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From: mobile, Al
Originally Posted by kehinnc
Does anyone have an opinion about which is better, a Lightweight or Standard Frame RV?
I'm speaking from the sense of lightweight aluminum frame construction vs. standard wood frame construction. The weight differance is obvious but will aluminum frames hold up better in the long run as compared to wood construction?
Thanks!!
I'm speaking from the sense of lightweight aluminum frame construction vs. standard wood frame construction. The weight differance is obvious but will aluminum frames hold up better in the long run as compared to wood construction?
Thanks!!
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Joined: Nov 2003
Posts: 186
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From: Alberta, Canada
IMHO, a properly welded aluminum frame is far superior to a wooden one - they use screws and nails on the wood studs. And as mentioned, less chances of rot and termites (depending on where you live). I think some aluminum framed trailers can also be bolted, which will probably loosen over time.
I think you pay more for aluminum though.
I think you pay more for aluminum though.
Last edited by ferroequine; May 1, 2007 at 06:33 PM.
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Joined: May 2005
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From: Colorado
I agree with the aluminum if properly welded
Trailer manufacturers' have been trying to figure out the correct metallurgy to keep the aluminum from cracking at the welds...some have figured it out; other are prone to cracking and failure.
For example Exiss trailers crack within a year even with light use. Featherlite and Sooner have it down to a science.
As far as RV builders go...I can't say what they know or don't know, but I would get a guarantee if you choose the aluminum. If they won't 100% guarantee the aluminum from stress fractures in writing...don't buy it.
Trailer manufacturers' have been trying to figure out the correct metallurgy to keep the aluminum from cracking at the welds...some have figured it out; other are prone to cracking and failure.
For example Exiss trailers crack within a year even with light use. Featherlite and Sooner have it down to a science.
As far as RV builders go...I can't say what they know or don't know, but I would get a guarantee if you choose the aluminum. If they won't 100% guarantee the aluminum from stress fractures in writing...don't buy it.
Senior Member
Joined: Mar 2001
Posts: 4,506
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From: Puyallup, WA
I assume you are talking about the construction of the 'camper' part itself, correct? The physical frame of the trailer is usually always steel....
I've got a 2003 Prowler that has the fiberglass sides and is "aluminum framed". Not sure how the framing is physically attached within the walls, but even though my trailer has a sticker on the side stating "Ultra Lite Aluminum Frame Construction", the roof is framed using wood.....
I think the majority of the what RV builders there is left out there is probably using aluminum?? Unless you are looking at older 'used' models, it's probably getting harder to find wood framed trailers anymore?
Mitch
I've got a 2003 Prowler that has the fiberglass sides and is "aluminum framed". Not sure how the framing is physically attached within the walls, but even though my trailer has a sticker on the side stating "Ultra Lite Aluminum Frame Construction", the roof is framed using wood.....
I think the majority of the what RV builders there is left out there is probably using aluminum?? Unless you are looking at older 'used' models, it's probably getting harder to find wood framed trailers anymore?
Mitch