RV repairs almost did us in | Full Time RV Life | EP36

Traveling and living full time in our Vanleigh Beacon fifth wheel we have had some struggles with repairs. We have spent our first year of Full time traveling chasing warranty related issues and spent thousands in the process. RVs will need repaired but when our repairs never give fixed or the ones that do get addressed don't last our spirits were Broken.
00:00 Intro
00:51 Bookdocking
02:57 Broken
04:42 Moving On
06:52 Our roots
07:41 Just us?
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[@SueSkuya-og7lg]

Thank you for your open hearted honesty with the challenges you have experienced. What Mark Twain said is certainly true. “ Life is just one darn thing after another.” Enjoy you guys for being real.

[@bobhill4786]

Hang in there! Better times are ahead!

[@MidlifeDetour]

Thank you! Absolutely! 🙂

[@rickh1238]

JUST GET A LAWYER We went through the same crap with our brand new 2020 beacon. We sold everything and lived in it for about 2 years. From the very first day the problems started. We spent more time making a diary and list of problems, then contacting vanleigh for approval to get a service repair company to come and fix things (covid shut down all the dealerships) than we did enjoying the rv life. So we finally got a lawyer and sued Vanleigh and Tiffin to get some of our money back. We ended up just buying another home and parked the piece of shit and haven't been in it for over a year. Sorry, we're not the only ones to have been through this. Get a lawyer and at least get some of your money back! If you need a referral we have great one... Thanks Rick and Cathy H.

[@ghostpepperrides4805]

Very well said. Beautiful area. From Indiana and we love visiting Idaho.

[@rtoadontheroad]

We used to live in Twin Falls and we used to camp in Sun Beam and Stanley all of the time with our kids

[@MidlifeDetour]

Stanley is a gorgeous open place to camp and you can’t beat the lake! 🤍

[@ShareaDreamComeTrue]

Classic Calvin Klein shirt. Reminds me of high school. Love it!

[@MidlifeDetour]

Good ole CK! I was still in High School in the video! -Sarah 😉

[@adamtaylor5590]

I’ve never seen so many issues compounded on a new RV let alone a high end RV like yours I would think for the sake of reputation the manufacturer would put you in something different you shouldn’t be expected to put up with this poor craftsmanship but I must say you two remind me of my wife and myself we just celebrated our 38th wedding anniversary and she is my foundation and I hers as team nothing is impossible GOD never gives us more than we can handle but sometimes it certainly feels that way your attitudes are very inspirational with all that’s been put in your path with your RV but good bad or indifferent they are shared experiences that make you stronger I truly hope our paths cross someday while out RVing just know the days of trouble free (well mostly trouble free) RVing is in your future and just think how much more you will enjoy that having been through all this! Thank you for the positive effects you have on others and me glad to know you both even if it’s just from KZbin GOD bless 😊

[@MidlifeDetour]

Happy 38th anniversary! We just celebrated 27! 🙂 thank you for your wonderful comment of encouragement! It means so much to us! We try to positive and you are right, God doesn’t give us more than we can handle! 👍🏼 we appreciate you and your kind words! We hope you had a Merry Christmas and blessings this coming year! ♥️

[@marybourgeois5235]

I get how resilient yall are & I need to rub elbows with you so that some of your spirit comes my way, BUT.............THEY SHOULD REIMBURSE YOU TWO & FIND SOMETHING ELSE. Those workers that built your "HOME" had to have known they were going out of business and FLAT STOPPED CARING!!! IM SO SORRY for your situation but THK GOD that positivity is hanging in there. GODS BLESSINGS & he will continue on. Hope to meet yall on the road someday. SENDING LOVE & BEST WISHES!!!!!!!!! Mary-Pasadena, Texas

[@MidlifeDetour]

Thank you so much for your comment 😊.We SO appreciate all the words of advice and encouragement! We would love to meet on the road one day! 👍

[@leekimm6826]

You have had a rough year with that RV. Nothing can lift your spirits like Stanley. It is a must to visit that place for at least 10 days a year. I think it is partly 21,22 the other thing I think contributes greatly is all the Chinese parts!!! it makes me furious. when I find a bunch of plastic parts where we used to have brass in our other busses. We have been on the road since 95.I owned a Historical renovation business and have worn out 6 of these Marathons. I did most of the maintenance on them so I have seen the quality in the parts go down We carry way more spare parts than we used to. So glad Sara is doing better!! Infections can get serious quickly

[@MidlifeDetour]

You are right, Stanley needs to be at least 10 days a year! It’s incredible! 👍🏼 I’ve heard the comment about parts quality going down over the years. You have now confirmed that! I need to look up a Marathon and see what that is! 👍🏼🙂

[@kathleenrutherford733]

I just found you channel Thanks for Switch it up

[@MidlifeDetour]

Thank so much for checking us out! We hope you’ll stick around! 😎👍🏼

[@smlink51]

Nice place, “Stanley” sounds like “My” kinda place. It was very nice meeting y’all in Tampa. Keep marching on!

[@garyself7872]

We have a 2021 Vilano 370GB and have been full time for 2 years. Ironically, we are heading to the SC in Jan to address a bowing floor issue and missing lag bolts in the front frame area. We have had a myriad of issues in the last 2 years; not quite as bad as you folks but close to include a bent frame above the wheels and the front frame area, fridge issues, electrical issues, water and brake fluid and hydraulic fluid leaks, window leaks, A/C issues, screws bowing the flooring, zirk fittings not passing grease, suspension not torqued properly and many more smaller issues. I have fixed many of the issues myself. Overall, we still dig the unit and without the service center, we would have probably moved on to another unit by now. I feel like we are close to working out the bugs as they say and I have upgraded the rig to a point ( solar and other things) that we are pretty attached.

[@MidlifeDetour]

Gary - I followed your well documented bent frame post when it happened on the I40 to the end result. Ironically we were in the area and taking that same stretch of the 40 during that time. We also have an attachment to our Beacon being there for the build, the upgrades and with it eventually becoming our home. Even with the money and time invested into this rig it may come to a point where we have to move on. I also spend a lot of time on repair but after our three visits to Tish and Redbay in the first several months of owing it we still have significant list and many of those outstanding are outside of my or a mobile techs ability for repair. I will be watching to see the results on your bowed floor - I am sure Danny will knock that out. Those guys at Tish are a great group. Thanks for watching!

[@ScottWoodland]

OMG, I have a 2016 Wildcat Max travel trailer, lost the Refrigerator in year 2, had a torn up floor from the stand alone table and chairs...lets see what else? Oh, been waiting on a new airconditioner since July, oh, and had to replace the hoses from the propane tanks, apparently need a new roof. And we DO NOT live in the darn thing. Lucky to have a good independent service center near us, and the trailer is in our side yard when we aren't traveling.

[@lmrad5750]

RVs require regular maintenance and repairs here and there. However, there is a difference between breaking and falling apart. looks like your RV is falling apart. The frame is a major factory issue and not your normal wear and tear, which is why the factory should be held accountable. Your RV is way too new to be having these major problems. Get rid of that lemon while you still can and before your warranty is up. Good luck and safe travels.

[@MidlifeDetour]

We absolutely agree with you on all levels! 😕

[@freedomisntfree5573]

You can buy fluff or you can buy a foundation. An old timer at the Seattle RV show crawled under an Arctic Fox 5th wheel and showed me a Northwood frame. I spent the rest of the day crawling under the trailers before i even looked inside. Word of advice. Buy a Northwood product or a product that uses a Northwood frame. Arctic Fox or Outdoors RV for 5th wheels. Arctic Fox, Outdoors Rv or Nash for a bumper pull. Pass on the fluff.

[@MidlifeDetour]

Your are right “fluff” is pretty and about all it amounts to. We always say our rig is pretty and maybe all it’s got going for it. Thanks for the recommendation. Our homebase is Idaho and I have been wanting to make it to the Northwood plant for some time since it is close by. I am part of the Artic Fox FB groups and watch trends there. Owners seem to be pretty happy with their units.

[@johncorbett3109]

I am so impressed at how calm and rational you both are considering the challenges you face almost daily. Come up and visit us 🇨🇦

[@MidlifeDetour]

Thank you! We are hoping to make it to some parts of Canada this year if things go as planned. We have been excited to make it up over the border!

[@acoconutt5391]

Just started watching your journey…. You both are so inspiring. Makes me excited to get on the road soon…. Bumps and all❤

[@MidlifeDetour]

Thank you for watching our journey! There will be bumps but we don’t regret our decision! ❤️

[@marksmit9688]

Foley AL

[@SwitchItUpLife]

I really love your vids... Buckle up you are set to be KZbin discovered soon.

[@MidlifeDetour]

Officially buckled 😉 Thanks for your feedback, as always!

[@raygrabowski8160]

We had similar experiences. Ordered a 2020 Vanleigh Vilano. It was supposed to be our dream rig. Had nearly every option offered. Dream quickly turned to nightmare. Plumbing leaked like a sieve. Replaced nearly every plumbing connection. Auto level never worked properly after multiple resets. Suspension problems with weak shackles that eventually broke. Fit and finish was sub par. VL customer service folks were very nice ( they had to be to maintain that Tiffin reputation) but we finally gave up and sold it. I feel for you and your issues. You’ve been much calmer dealing with the problems than I was.

[@MidlifeDetour]

We are so sorry you had to go through a similar experience 😕 Unfortunately it is happening more often than we even know. With our many many issues, there’s no way we can sell. So glad you were able to! Thank you so much for your comment and for watching!

[@realasscracka]

95% are Crappy builds... try Luxe

[@N2it4Now]

I'm sitting here after watching your video trying to think of something profound to say or add but you guys already have. So, I tip my hat to you both, well done & well said. To your question about rigs being built in 2021-2022. We bought our Alliance 310 new in April of 2021. We took off for Wisconsin and back. Then later in the year, we took off for Michigan and back for about 13 or 14k miles of travel in 2021. The only issues we've had are LP tank strap, blinds, awning motor (plug backed out) and TV mount that happened to unseat itself (travel) as we were taking it in for a quick look over at the factory while we were traveling though Elkhart. Total time in their shop was about an hour. I fixed some trim that came loose and regular maintenance stuff. We traveled mostly on I80 as we were under a pretty tight schedule. We were going to take off for the PNW and head east across to Mount Rushmore, but some life issues popped up that overruled our travel plans this year. We really enjoy our rig, and it is nowhere near your setup especially the solar. It is perfect for us and the way we travel at this time. I'm a pretty patient person, even more so now that I am older, but I'm pretty sure I would have discretely lost my sxxx on your rig by now. Again, hats off to you guys!! Thanks for sharing. Rock on MD!

[@MidlifeDetour]

Thank you so much!! That is fantastic you've had minimal issues and were able to get them repaired so quickly! Our Grand Design Momentum was basically problem free with only a few minor things that we got addressed very quickly and easily! We sure miss that rig! We hope all is going okay with the life issues! ❤ We have had several things happen that have tried to detour us from our travel. Hopefully you can get back to your travels soon! I think we are kinda "CRAZY" at this point, when it comes to losing our cool and kinda laugh things off as they come our way! Not sure if that is good or not...haha. Thanks for watching and commenting! Hope we can meet you on the road one day! 😎👍

[@jaymekeiffer5083]

Never stop Adventuring! Never give up!!

[@MidlifeDetour]

Never! 👍🏼😎

[@OurRollingVoyageORV]

I know this is an older video but I still want to let y’all know that you are an inspiration. Btw I did reach out on WhatsApp. Safe travels guys.

[@MidlifeDetour]

First of all, the WHATS APP was impersonating us! We reported it and hopefully that will get taken care of asap! So sorry! Feel free to contact us directly from our website! We’d love to hear from you! Midlifedetour.us 🙂 thanks so much for your kind words!

[@OurRollingVoyageORV]

@@MidlifeDetour yeah I found out that it was. I blocked him. Sorry to bother you.

[@MidlifeDetour]

No bother at all! 🙂

[@leehensley7711]

I believe that it will get better. If there was not lows in life, we would not see the high points.

[@MidlifeDetour]

ABSOLUTELY! and we are here for all of it! Definitely enjoying our life out here! Thanks for watching!!😎

[@bobbazley7141]

Hard to believe the problems,we have a 2020 42RD and have had no real problems,a few leaks, refrigerator tried to walk away I guess because it is a pre pandemic it was put together better. Good luck.

[@MidlifeDetour]

Hey Bob - you likely are correct in relation to pandemic. However, I have always said our unit is an outlier. I know another VL owner with the same model as ours and came off the line just a few weeks prior and has had minimal issues. I was told by somebody at the SC they must have saved all of the issues for our rig.

[@Jollyprez]

Find a way to get that rig declared a LEMON. Tiffin should be embarrassed - and sued. Next - buy a rig smaller than an aircraft carrier. Smaller rigs - cheaper and gives you more parking options. I've gone through three class A's myself: 31', 35', and 40'. The simplest one - the 40 footer - had the fewest things to break, but was too exciting to drive on 2-lane roads and fewer parking options. The 35 footer had the most toys, and the most problems. We lived as a family of 5 in the 35 footer for over 2 years. Finding spots in RV parks was always an adventure - and we were 30' shorter than you. ( and, it was 15 years ago and less crowded than today )

[@marksmit9688]

We have a 2022 lacrosse went out west and the camper had a lot of things fall apart this is our 3rd camper. I think that the trailers that were built in 2020 or 2021 were not right because of covid. But I also believe that a new campers will have a problem.

[@MidlifeDetour]

New campers do seem like a roll of the dice. I know somebody with the same model as ours and came of the line a bit before ours and has had minimal issues.

[@mikebrouillette6087]

Always hear stories these rigs were never made for thousands of miles per year.

[@rob1484]

I am so glad seeing these episodes that we did not trade ours for one of these Vanleighs. Sorry you went through this, but it's videos like these that help RV shoppers to avoid brands with construction issues like this. Case and point there was another channel that did a lemon life series which steered us away from Cedar Creek also.

[@MidlifeDetour]

We are glad our story can help others…we contemplated sharing some of the issues and we definitely didn’t share all of them but we decided it’s all part of our journey and it’s where we are. Thanks so much for watchin and for your comment! 👍🏼🙂

[@ginngee230]

Love your outlook Keep fighting for it

[@MidlifeDetour]

Thank you! We will definitely fight through..just needed a little regrouping! Thank you for watching! 😊

[@lindasmith5554]

Site looks terrific!

[@MidlifeDetour]

It really was! Our favorite kind of boondocking spot!

[@rvfamilylife]

Hey, the Dry Campers, cool. We know them. I'm glad y'all are going to be resilient through the tough times.

[@MidlifeDetour]

Dry Campers have the cleanest install! 👍🏼😎 We are determined to keep going! Thanks for watchin!

[@nomowworries3745]

I thought y’all were about to announce something completely different. I’m glad y’all are still positive about your goal! One word momentum 😉 can’t wait to see y’all back enjoying traveling like the first few videos. 🙏🏾 for y’all!

[@MidlifeDetour]

MOMENTUM! We totally get it! haha😎👍 Miss that rig every day! We are definitely enjoying travel and choosing where we focus! Thank you so much for your feedback and for watchin!

[@Dirtandcamo]

OMG you guys were adorable! You’ve come a long way and still pushing through 🦋

[@MidlifeDetour]

Well…thank you 😉 Still pushing and will continue! Thanks so much! 🙂

[@mikemiura1289]

Well said, "it isn't the rv, it's the travel, the experience." KUDOS! You guys are an absolute inspiration! Rock on "Nike....(inside joke)"!!!!! Ain't nothin' stoppin' you now! Thank you for the update. ***you've been together since kids!!!! Yowza! ABSOLUTE!

[@MidlifeDetour]

Going through old video sure makes us feel old! We were neighbors growing up and fell head over heels when I was only 14 (he was 17) and the rest is history! Nothin stoppin us! Thanks for watchin! 😎

[@mikemiura1289]

@@MidlifeDetour kids…..

[@bfn6ghh]

So sorry to hear about all your troubles. It's very heartbreaking. Your RV is very beautiful and cost big bucks and Tiffin is a well known name. We just had two mobile RV techs to come to us for minor repairs. We were talking about Tiffin Motorhomes and got on the subject about Van Leigh they mentioned that they have lots of problems and their reputation is going downhill which I was shocked. I wish you luck in getting yours fixed correctly. Keep up your great attitude and see you on the road.

[@MidlifeDetour]

Thank you so much. You are right, our rig is so beautiful! 😐 We have heard about a lot of VanLeigh issues which is really disheartening. Thanks for your feedback and we would love to meet you on the road one day!👍🙂

[@tombouman4485]

Congratulations you guys are survivors and still have a great attitude, good for you and best wishes!

[@MidlifeDetour]

Well, thank you so much for your comment! We trust good things are comin! 👍🏼🙂

[@kentguidry3351]

you guys have an amazing attitude. I retired about a year and half ago after 36+ years in EMS. We are now on camper #10 or 11 in our lifetime and can say that all of them have issues. We currently own our retirement RV, a 2022 Alliance Paradigm 340RL which is in the shop as I am writing this for slide problems and a list of other small issues. I do believe that those RV's built during Covid are more prone to problems, but like Tiffin, Alliance is customer based and works diligently to repair those issues. I guess at this point, that is all that we can hope for and feel fortunate when I hear of other brands and the horror stories that owners have when dealing with the manufacturer. Keep up the travels and great videos. Always enjoy following your journey

[@MidlifeDetour]

Thank you so much! Congrats on your retirement! 😉 We are very familiar with Alliance and we really love the comrnodery! We went on a plant tour and ALMOST bought a toy hauler from them! LONG STORY but it Probably would have been a great rig for us! BUT...here we are! We do think that Covid has something to do with the quality issues and hope that will all start improving in the near future! We are so glad you are continuing to follow along on our journey! 😎👍

[@bigtruckbigtravels]

RV life is fun... but can be challenging at times. Lots of moving parts (pun intended) as a fulltime RVer. Hang in there. Thanks for sharing. Nice video editing.

[@MidlifeDetour]

You are so right about the moving parts! Thanks so much! We are enjoying our travels!

[@seawolff33]

You 2 - your spirit to keep going and enjoying each other and the travel is inspiring! We have a 2021 fifth wheel and (fingers crossed) our issues have been minor compared to what you have gone through.

[@MidlifeDetour]

Thank you so much for seeing that about us....I think the positive feedback we've received has really helped us keep our perspective and push forward! 😎

[@timaz1066]

That’s why when I decided to go full-time I bought an older well-built diesel pusher motorhome. Yes I’ve had some items I’ve had to fix but nothing like what you’re describing as in your broken frame. But there are always small things to keep up on tightening this and adjusting that. Especially with our lovely roads. L O L

[@MidlifeDetour]

You definitely went the smarter route with getting an older well built rig!! Some of the roads out here are brutal and we are definitely proactive on the tightening and adjusting! 👍

[@Max-on-Tour]

You guys are an inspiration. I sure hope we cross paths some day.

[@MidlifeDetour]

Well, thank you so very much! We would love for our paths to cross! Keep in touch! 👍😎

[@adriannurse1502]

Sadly I don't think it is just you guys. Tiffin is stopping production of the Van Leigh series all together. You guys also hit on something else I hear people saying. Don't buy a new RV, sell everything and just take off. Everyone says that most of your first year of RV ownership is spent with the RV in the shop. So don't plan on taking off that first year. If that's really what you want to do then consider buying a used one where someone else has already fixed all of these problems. As for you guys, have you considered trading your rig in on a different one?

[@tssmith5502]

Hi! Caught up today on your journey! So sorry you’re having to deal with all the issues. Wanted to share a recent experience we had with a small leak behind our stove in the kitchen slide. The window behind the stove was not properly sealed. We had to remove the window and reseal it with butyl tape. Not sure if this is your issue, but maybe something to check out. So glad you are able to enjoy some adventure in between your down times.

[@MidlifeDetour]

Thank you - that is a super good suggestion and will investigate that further. We still have been unable to determine the entry point and that is a strong possibility.

[@steveammons302]

Appreciate your attitude with what you guys are going through. We have a 22 Beacon FLB and have had few issues but know more are coming. Find ourselves looking at ours based on what you have had trouble with. Hate that you are going through it but you are providing a valuable service to fellow Beacon owners, Thank You!! Hope Vanleigh makes it right.

[@MidlifeDetour]

Thank you! We hope you will get your issues worked out and have nowhere near what we have experienced! We do believe ours in an outlier and not all Beacons are this problematic. Keep in touch with how things are going for you! 😬 Thanks for watchin!

[@willarddenton4360]

Great Attitude, Rock On

[@MidlifeDetour]

We are definitely ROCKIN IT! Thanks for watchin! 😎👍

[@shelleywalker6225]

Prayers for both of you to get resolutions to all these issues so you can continue your journey without those worries. Take care, safe travels.

[@MidlifeDetour]

Thank you so much! We are determined to continue our journey and see this country! Thanks for watching 😊

[@mnmandthegang]

Great video, we haven't had too many problems with our motorcoach. The main problem was DEF Head failure, but other than that we have just had minor problems. Stay positive, hopefully all the little gremlins will work themselves out. Beautiful camping spot, once we upgrade our batteries and add more solar we will boondock. Safe travels.

[@MidlifeDetour]

So glad you haven’t had so many issues! You will definitely love boondocking! It’s our favorite! 🙂🤍

[@chipangelicamartelle802]

Another awesome video. Thanks for sharing.

[@MidlifeDetour]

Thanks so much for watching, as always! 😊👍

[@skyking4501]

Proud to see how resolved you are to continue and intentionally be happy. Many blessings to you and much better fortune to you. Your determination made me want to subscribe, and so, I did.

[@MidlifeDetour]

Well, we are so glad you did! Thanks for coming along with us and for your comment! 🙂👍🏼

[@laurakilmer8652]

Lippert sucks along with the quality of many rvs. It is really too bad people pay a lot of dollars to have fun and they end up spending a lot of time getting rvs fixed.

[@MidlifeDetour]

Our particular issues weren’t / aren’t Lippert. We definitely agree with the quality of rigs these days 😕 thank you for your comment!

[@rickholt9086]

Love your videos. I have an older Montana 5th wheel whose most significant things have been operator error or tire blowouts.. I thought about buying a newer rig but maybe not. I hear that the last few years have had many quality issues as you have experienced firsthand. I have worked in the building trade all my life so I can fix just about everything. Service center suck don't they?

[@MidlifeDetour]

We had such minor issues with our Momentum and really regret selling it! It sounds like you have a solid rig! We just don’t have confidence in anything new after the last few years! Thanks for watchin! 😎👍🏼

[@alanstallones8624]

I just happened onto your channel and I’m thrilled to find some fellow Idahoans out there full time RVing. I live in Twin Falls and follow several other full time RVer’s channels. (Switch it Up, Brazen Brits, One Strange Adventure, and others). Hope you can get past your rig troubles, and best of luck on your continued journey!

[@MidlifeDetour]

Hey! So glad you found us! Todd and Shelia are friends and we love their passion and mission! 👍🏼 We will definitely get through it all and we are still loving this lifestyle! Thank you so much! 🙂

[@mikemiura1289]

It's a supreme challenge to be in front of a camera when things are just not right. As they have been with your Beacon of recent. I think this is the reason so many of your viewers, including myself, are calling out on your inspiration, your passion. Hey, "life isn't a dress rehearsal," right?

[@MidlifeDetour]

Thank you, Mike 😊 That means a lot and we appreciate your insight. 🙂

[@mikemiura1289]

@@MidlifeDetour I mention this only because I've been there, done that and you both have handled the situation a lot better than I could've. I'd be trembling with RAGE!!!! Oh well, great composure, well done. "nite....🙃

[@howardbloom9836]

You are both so amazing. Truly. Doctors should recommend your videos instead of antidepressants

[@MidlifeDetour]

Well, Howard this just made our day! You are awesome, my friend! 😎❤

[@rburoni]

Pull out the rug and chairs!! Make a fire, watch the stars.

[@MidlifeDetour]

Chairs are out! We had some smores and enjoyed the stars! 👍-minus the rug 😉

[@rickgriffith1]

Sending you prayers and good vibes!👍🏼😎

[@MidlifeDetour]

Thanks so much! We are doing great! 🙂👍

[@ouRVisionnomadicliving]

Looks like a fantastic spot. Yes...one of the things that we constantly are telling people is that we are not on vacation, nor are we "camping" we are just living our lives with a changing yard. 👍 Sorry to hear you got sick Sara. Great video you two. Keep your chins up and enjoy the journey!! We are sure hoping at some point our paths will cross. Safe Travels!!

[@MidlifeDetour]

You'll have to do some boondocking up in that area! We are planning to spend more time up there next year! We are glad you "get" the changing back yard! SO TRUE! I am fully recovered from being sick and my leg is all better as well! Life is good! We will FOR SURE cross our paths once of these days! Would love that! Safe travels to you, friends! 😊

[@chriscatron2978]

Look at a Lux 5th wheel or the Lux toy hauler

[@MidlifeDetour]

We have been to the Luxe plant (RV Factory) twice in the past and will be stopping to check out units near the Tampa show this week. Nice rigs for sure.

[@Abeaness]

Loved the clip from back in the early days! So sorry for your RV issues; but love your outlook and positivity through it all! We never buy new RVs. We can’t afford to, but even if we could, we’d let somebody else take the depreciation hit and deal with the initial repairs. Our current rv is a truck camper, an Arctic Fox 990, which did have water damage when we bought it, but we repaired it and reinforced it and insulated it when we repaired it. Sadly though, just after that , my hubby then backed into it while loading it and it was subsequently totaled. So, we repaired what got broken but it continues to be a work in progress, as RVs always seem to be anyways. We are now waiting to use it again. (We were in the process of an Rv trip across the south and southwest back in Feb with my parents, but just a couple days into that trip, my mom fainted at her friends house in VA the morning after stopping to visit and she hit her head on the hardwood floor and now we are back home in the northeast caregiving for her due to the repercussions from the head injury….So on a positive note, at least you’re still traveling and seeing the country (albeit a lot of parking lots and hotels) despite the issues you are dealing with regarding your trailer. But please continue to hang in there, it too shall pass (as the saying goes! ) Take care and sending positive energy and vibes your way!!! 🏕🏔🏖🛶🚲🍀🌻🌞

[@MidlifeDetour]

Couldn't resist putting in the old clip of us! We appreciate your feedback and agree with you on the used rig being a better idea comment! Wow you sure have been through a lot! We hope your mom continues to recover, how scary! You are right! We really had to refocus and since then, we have been enjoying our travels more! We will continue to press forward! Thanks for your comment and for watching! Good luck to you!!😊

[@timhartman727]

Give you guys a lot of credit to have to deal with a those repairs.

[@MidlifeDetour]

Thanks so much! We are still "dealing" but we are adventuring and living our best life! 👍😎

[@marksmit9688]

We are going to Foley in March and April to Ahoy RV resort with our Jet boat on the intercostal water way. Site 235, come over and go boating with us; like to meet if you are able. Monthly site for $1200 for warm weather and good camping.

[@MidlifeDetour]

Hey thanks for the invite! If we are passing through that area we will for sure look you up. Thanks for hanging out with us.

[@andreasands694]

Just recently started watching your channel and I see all these problems you have with your rig and I’m wondering why it’s not considered a ‘lemon’. Why is it you can’t get proper help? Maybe you addressed it previously and I’m not there yet. I don’t think we’d be able to stay so positive with all those issues. We’re new and looking to get a travel trailer but wow!

[@attwasmi]

We are right there with you. We have a 2014 DRV and we are the second owners. We just finished a 12k Dallas to UP Michigan, into Can and east to the seaboard, then down the east coast to SC and back to Dallas. Perfect until SC with tire blowouts, electrical wiring replacements, hydraulic lines, then the major issues back at Dallas. We sold our home 2 years ago and full time. After the 6 weeks in Dallas we planned on wintering in Albuquerque NM with family. We left Sept 29th with All new tires on trailer, truck, and tow veh. Got 25 miles north of Vernon TX and had the engine go out on our 2011 Chevy 3500HD. Catastrophic engine failure. Yep 56k on the truck and a new truck in the future. Engine with little warranty for a replacement at 35k$ or new truck (used) with 100k warranty. So we are now in NM. About 100K$ down and boy did we revisit RV life. We have shortened our Alaska plans for 2023 but still RV life is better that a house. Keep Going!!!!!

[@MidlifeDetour]

Sorry you are right here with us! 😐 OH WOW! You guys have had a whirlwind of issues! ABSOLUTELY can see why you revisited RVLIFE! That is an incredible amount of things going wrong and a lot of money! We sure hope things look up for you and you can get back to adventure! We would love to go to Alaska! Its right up there at the top of what we want to do in our RV! We have no regrets about selling our house and we still LOVE this life! Keep in touch! (PS. we just spent some time in NM and LOVED it there!)

[@byronwilkerson7018]

You guys are way more patient than I. We have a 2022 Beacon 41LKB with issues, nothing near the issues you have been having, and have threatened to take it to Burnsville and park it out front until the issues were fixed, provide a new rig that has had a proper QC, or a full refund. God Bless you guys. MAKE THEM FIX the issues or make them make it right. Very Respectfully, Byron

[@MidlifeDetour]

Really sad thing is...we were THERE for our build. Didn't know enough to know...ya know? So glad you aren't experiencing anything close to what we have! Ours is a "special" one...😬 We do hope things are made right and thanks so much for your comment and support!

[@byronwilkerson7018]

@@MidlifeDetour yes I know and have been there. Unfortunately, or fortunately depending upon your view, most of the issues people are having are not due to VL. Most issues are Lippert product related. At least from what I have seen and heard. I wish there were a production 5th Wheel that is Lippert free, other than New Horizon or Spacecraft. We love following you guys and hope to see you down the road. May God continue to bless and protect you on your travels. Very Respectfully, Byron

[@roadhog6603]

I have heard other Vanleigh RV owners having similar problems. Sadly it appears to be a case of poor design and engineering. The RV industry power brokers paid lobbyists millions of dollars to exempt them from the lemon laws in the automotive industry. If you have the fight in you, you might watch the “Irritated Traveler”. They had similar lemon issues with their rig and fought back. After a lengthy battle and exposing the lemon on their vlog, the RV manufacturer bought their rig back. The sad part is they probably turned around and sold it to another unsuspecting buyer.

[@MidlifeDetour]

Thanks for the suggestion - we did check out their vlog. I see they ended up with a Tiffin. I have no doubt that their manufacturer likely corrected the surface issues and turned it around. Knowing what I know about my Beacon, either selling or trading I would hate for another unsuspecting persons dream to be crushed by it. Thanks again!

[@michaelgarcia8271]

Great video. You spirit will be an inspiration to others. Don't give in to the roadblocks. Keep going over, around or through them and enjoy the journey!

[@MidlifeDetour]

Well, thank you so much! We hope so! We are keeping on and enjoying every moment! Thanks for watching! 😊👍

[@SuperSushidog]

So sorry you are having so much trouble. I hope you are still able to get warranty repairs now that Tiffin has announced that they are phasing out their Vanleigh towable line. We have been FTing for the last 4 years but have had nowhere near the problems you guys had. We went in the opposite direction, mainly out of economic necessity. Instead of buying new and having to put it in the shop to get all the warranty issues fixed that are common to RVs, we bought a low mileage older motorhome instead. We got a 1999 National Tropical Class A coach with only 28,000 miles on it for $15k. The previous owner had already had all the bugs repaired long before we got it, so it has turned out to be relatively worry free (for an RV). Sure, little things break or wear out all the time but so far, we have been able to repair them ourselves and have never had to put it in a shop for repairs. Plus we have the cash on hand to do so because we have no monthly note. Insurance is cheaper on an older unit too. I think towables as a rule are not as sturdily made as motorhomes, especially not older, higher quality ones. If it were up to me, I'd get her fixed up as best you can then sell it to cut my losses and buy something else - with as many troubles as you've had. Good luck on whatever you decide to do but hang in there. It will most certainly get better.

[@stevedenoyer5956]

That would be so frustrating, I’d think about trading it in and starting over on the rig side. So much stress thinking about it.

[@MidlifeDetour]

Trust us, we have thought of all the scenarios and options when it comes to our rig 🥴 frustrating, for sure! Thank for watchin! 🙂

[@onecrazycanadiancouple4513]

Till further notice have a vanleigh and have also had major issues since they bought. They too got rid of a grand design to get the vanleigh. We are looking at a tiffin desiel pusher. We looked into fifth wheels but there a lot of issues with anything purchased from 2020 on. We would not touch any of them.

[@MidlifeDetour]

We sure miss our Grand Design! You are correct , it seems like the bigger issues started in 2020, unfortunately. Good luck on your search for a new rig! It is always an exciting process!

[@onecrazycanadiancouple4513]

@@MidlifeDetour it sure is. We can’t wait to hit the road with our Sammy Bear. Do you worry about the dogs getting over heated. Of course our lives for the snow up here but in summer we have to walk him early day or late day. It’s way to hot hot him even up here. We are about an hour outside of Ottawa Ontario

[@MidlifeDetour]

We always keep their temps in mind when we are traveling to warmer areas! Like you, we go out early or late and that makes the biggest difference. They are pretty spoiled and love traveling to new places! 😎

[@onecrazycanadiancouple4513]

@@MidlifeDetour ours as well loves to go out even just for rides in the car lol. Do yours sleep on their backs? Ours props himself on his crate and flips onto his back lol hilarious to watch

[@MidlifeDetour]

YES! They sleep on their backs! Its the cutest thing! I guess its a Sammy thing! 😊❤

[@PH-mf1li]

good for you. Don't give up .No one should have to put up with what you have been through.when they refused to reinforce the frame with two little triangles and just re-welded it the same way they must know isn't strong enough made no sense and is much more expensive to just keep repairing, Definitely not a company I would like to invest my time or money in

[@MidlifeDetour]

Definitely had to regroup and we are ready for adventure! We are choosing where our focus is and enjoying our travel! Thanks so much for your feedback! 😎👍

[@Stranded-N-Paradise]

Hey guys we loved the story about you guys visiting that area and camping when you were young and that video, we will definitely be checking that area out the next time we are in Idaho.

[@MidlifeDetour]

Couldn't help but bring back the old video when we were at the exact spot! You two (and the pups) would LOVE the area! Thanks for watchin! 😎

[@chrisstanley2743]

Just got together with Dry Campers to put full solar on our new rig. Are you happy with them?

[@stevenkaskus6173]

Sorry but I think it's time to get a attorney and get out of that rig into another one and get compensated for all the hotels and expenses related to going to service centers and also just plain not being able to do as you intended. Patience and understanding are great but enough is enough.

[@MidlifeDetour]

Thank you so much for your comment (and advice!) 🙂👍🏼

[@jamessmith-or8hw]

I’d say this guy is right about the attorney but honestly yall r sticking together living this experience together, most people at home in houses don’t even talk when they walk in the door and r miserable because we’re stuck in rut but y’all r out there living in a dream moving rolling and have each other with no interruptions but that rv which has not broken u - ma’am and sir as long y’all have each other y’all winning no matter wat and living, great job to both of u and keep doing ya thing and live explore love together that’s all that matters

[@markstebelton2589]

We got a first year East to West Ahara and have had a few issues, but NOTHING like what y’all have experienced. And honestly I was a bit nervous seeing as this is a first year model.

[@MidlifeDetour]

We started having issues immediately so at least there’s that (for you guys) and we hope you will be major problem free! Thanks for your comment and for watching 🙂👍🏼

[@KevinCoop1]

The most likely problem with your auto level is the control board. I talked to a couple that bought a new camper and the auto level by Lippert was not working correctly. After months, the Dealer got upset and took a control unit out of another trailer and swapping it out. No more problems.

[@MidlifeDetour]

Very possible. We started having our issues with the leveling after the underbelly was flooded. They changed out the rear sensor but the wires going to it were corroded. I did work with Lippert on testing my control board and their analysis was that the wires running back to the rear sensor are bad. I have gotten used to leveling with a 3ft level but maybe I will put this up on the list to work on since we are stationary for a bit. Thanks for the thought.

[@HSTWXMAN]

Keep on, keeping on! We are headed home after the Switch huddle. It is raining from a tropical storm but it is better than working:). Back to work next week:(

[@MidlifeDetour]

We are definitely KEEPIN ON! Thats for sure! Those Switch huddles look awesome and we Love Todd and Shelia! We will take the rain over working too! Thanks for following along with us! Take care! 😎

[@HSTWXMAN]

@@MidlifeDetour heard the FL huddle is full but still room in TN in April. Would love to see you.

[@johnvance5168]

Glad you are staying positive about the traveling, however they owe you a refund or a new camper.

[@MidlifeDetour]

It seems like that on most days! 👍🏼

[@texasproud3332]

This list your talking about how about getting in touch with the president of the manufacture that built your RV and ask compensation during repairs or buy the camper back y’all probably already know that there are multiple beacons with these kinds of problems

[@MidlifeDetour]

Thanks for your great advice! We are definitely doing everything we can! We are very aware of the Beacon issues...really is too bad 😐

[@marcischubert4494]

Tmobile will allow you to move with their service? I thought it was just for home/stationary use.

[@MidlifeDetour]

We have been carrying it for 14 months from coast to coast. It’s intended to be for home use however we have had no issues using it across our travels.

[@WestsontheMove]

Hi guys, we have been watching your videos a while now and are curious why you traded in your Grand Design Momentum. I just don't remember as we watch so many RV KZbinrs. I must saying after watching all the problems with the Van Leigh Beacon, I'm not so sure I would "upgrade" from our Momentum 395ms-r. We have our own issues but no where near the problems you guys seem to be having with your rig. We are so sorry you guys are having to go through this. I'm sure behind the scenes there is much more frustration but you two have much more patience than I know I would have. #Expletives We hope one day we will run into you guys on the road. Would love to meet you. Pete & Lisa @WestsontheMove

[@MidlifeDetour]

We sold the Momentum after a really great trip across the US. Selling it though, is what sealed the FULL TIME DEAL for us! The minute it drove away, we went full force into preparing for full time. We miss that rig and it was GOOD to us! (especially miss our patio 😊). If yours is good to you, we would stick with it! You never know what you will get yourselves into with something different! 😬 -Thanks for watching!

[@rogerz8051]

Unfortunately, your experience is far more typical than it should be. RVs are slapped together by minimally trained workers because turnover in factories is unbelievable. Manufacturers ship them without proper QC as they fully expect the dealers, and then sadly the customers, to be the final inspectors. Dealers don't like it either as they're the ones having to see the disappointment in their customers eyes. Their service bays are also understaffed with poorly trained people as their turnover is also high. It's a rotten system. Buyers, especially first time RV'ers, should receive a document warning them not to plan any trips longer than one day's drive from the dealer during the warranty period. Quality is that bad, and the manufacturers know it. I honestly think they expect us to plan on our RVs spending most of that time waiting for service at the dealers. That said, there is hope! After our one year warranty ended, we haven't been back to the dealer for anything. A couple things were repaired by qualified techs that I found on my own. Also hired a plumber once. Another time I hired an electrician. Rig is 7 years old now.

[@MidlifeDetour]

Agree with you!! 🥴 so glad for you that it sounds like you’ve worked out most of the issues so you can really enjoy your travel! Gives us some hope too! Thanks so much for your comment! 😎

[@briancc2100]

Again a low quality lipert problem

[@boydcrowder4436]

Did y'all just get a lemon, or are all these build issues pretty much on all similar rigs?

[@MidlifeDetour]

We know a lot of folks that have been really happy with the Vanleighs. One came off the line just prior to ours a friend owns and has had minimal issues. We have always said ours is an outlier. Since sharing some of our videos we have heard from more owners with some extensive issues but the majority of owners I believe have been extremely happy. To answer your question we probably got the special unit. Thanks for hanging out with us.

[@marshaclifton1535]

I see you haven't sold the 5th wheel that bob tiffen's " children" built. Alliance 5th wheel, and almost any other would be better. im so sorry you got fooled into thinking you were getting so called Tiffen quality

[@jwlindem1]

Blah blah blah.

[@leehensley7711]

Seems very insensitive and needlessly dismissive.

[@fuzion430journey3]

You guys have Instagram?

[@MidlifeDetour]

We sure do! @midlifedetour 😎