Tech reviews RVs undercover at dealerships - Episode 1 - Keystone, Heartland, Forest River

[@jefff6167]

This is the kind of gutsy KZbin RV content that makes a positive difference in consumer’s lives. Great work👍🇺🇸

[@bgleadbetter]

So true! Big Truck/Big RV sucks the D*** of the RV industry! I don’t watch his shit anymore.

[@glennbeadshaw727]

Hey Jeff are you his best friend?

[@kimevraire503]

Have you reviewed any of the outdoor rvs

[@lufromcalab]

We had a 2013 Jayco, Jayfeather, that was going through tires much faster than should have been reasonable. After we blew off a wheel assembly, the RV shop showed me the axel, which was clearly marked as rated for maximum 2500 lbs. The listed dry weight of the trailer was 3500. Thankfully, I was in a parking lot, driving about 5km/h when I heard the metal on metal, just before the wheel came off. When I asked the tech about it, he explained that this was pretty common, and they recommend checking your axel rating before you sign for the purchase of your trailer. A new axel on a small trailer ended up being $1,400, which I was able to get reimbursed, but putting an under rated axel on a moving vehicle / trailer should be illegal.

[@breckerickson2826]

Was there 2 axels?

[@lufromcalab]

@@breckerickson2826 Only one axel. Jayco X17 Hybrid. It was a nice little trailer, but when I found out what they'd done with the weight load, I was horrified.

[@jamesmatthews4840]

It’s because in the RV industry, the factor in the tongue weight which is the load the vehicle is carrying. Meaning if a trailer weighs 3500 pounds, 2500 pounds is actually on the trailer axle, and 1000 pounds is put on the tongue of the tow vehicle. This method is way overused, even by some “higher end” brands such as grand design which really should be outlawed. They fail constantly for obvious reasons.

[@richardwarren7492]

It's axle by the way.

[@richardwarren7492]

@@breckerickson2826 It's axle by the way.

[@philforder7810]

Peple like you are........ a God send! Your information is so valuable, thank you!

[@undercoverrvtech]

Thank you! That's very nice of you to say

[@barbaradowney4207]

I have been waiting for these undercover videos Jacob....so anxious to see GD, Alliance, and Brinkley, although I think I already know what you're going to say! Love how you go through all the systems. Thank you so much for doing these and putting such valuable information out there...Unfortunately too many people just jump in and then complain when it all goes to s__t! Going to Hershey in 2 days to look a bunch over.

[@cristyrobertson9165]

Love your suggestions for reviews

[@anthonyryder765]

Am looking forward to seeing some of these also.

[@lisablackstock9650]

OMG - you sir are EXACTLY the type of guy I want in my back pocket to find out the REAL TRUTH about my next RV. Planning to buy in the next 9-12 months so I can go full time and wfh, so I'm on the watch for what's out there. Now I find you who can provide me all the tips and understanding to these units that I truly need for when I go to pull the trigger on that purchase - I am one happy lady for sure!! Looking forward to watching many many more of your videos and heading over to your website for more education!. I am soooo glad I found you today Jacob!.

[@barbaracherry1082]

I wonder how many other viewers grabbed a flashlight and crawled around checking flex and Pex fittings in cabinets in their rv! Thanks SO MUCH for your information. You have a big fan here!

[@BlainsTube]

I don't own an RV and don't have any plans on buying one. BUT I do appreciate well thought out, knowledgeable and high quality comparison videos. Great job and THANK YOU for your service to your viewers. 😀

[@danielletalerico2889]

Thanks for sharing your vast knowledge and experience with people like me who are thinking about buying an RV but don't have a clue as far as what to look for, I have watched numerous hours of RV videos and just from what I've gleaned So far I'm leaning towards a Rockwood mini lite, I've also looked at Outdoors RV, as well as Northwood and just recently started looking into fiberglass RVs like Casita, escape, Oliver. Etc. Would really like to know your overall opinion on at least a few of these RVs if not all of them. Thanks for all that you do to help people like me.

[@lynd724]

This is a great concept. I love someone being completely non biased on brand and just giving a true review. As a first time buyer and very new to the RV game this was very informative and truly an eye opener. I would love to see you review the Rockwood Mili Lite trailers, specifically the 2516s and also the Rockwood Signature 5th Wheels. Looking forward to more videos. Great job 👍

[@undercoverrvtech]

Added to my list, thanks for watching!

[@NationalRVTrainingAcademy]

This took some courage but glad you did it. We would love to collaborate with you! Let Todd and I know if you’re open to it and we’ll set something up.

[@undercoverrvtech]

Thanks! Shoot me an email with what you're thinking - [e-mail]. I have 124 more reviews to edit so no promises on timeline, but I be open to hearing what you're thinking :)

[@jasonsterling9818]

I would love to see you do 5th wheels...specifically the ones considered "higher end" Alliance Paradigm, KZ Durango Gold and Grand Design Solitude...that would be an interesting comparison as they are all at about the same price point and have identical floor plans

[@OmahaWayne]

I dont know which units he will be doing, but I know he is going to be doing some 5th wheels in future videos

[@TheMachoGabacho]

I’d like to see you review some small overland type campers such as the Coleman Rubicon series, Intech Flyer series and Hiker Trailers. These little campers are super popular right now and some cost up to $60K. I’d like to see how well they’re really built.

[@mironkorzalko7761]

I have no desire to have a bowel movement 2 feet from my kitchen or transport it down the road , but I appreciate your expertise and willingness to educate a consumer.

[@krisgarren5735]

Thanks so much for this content! Would love to see some Rockwood/Flagstaff reviews, specifically Geo Pro or Mini Lites.

[@jessewhite2593]

Place a saddle valve on the AC, ID and repair the leak, recharge and your good to go. No need to replace the whole AC. I have personally collected, repaired and used at least 3 over-the-head AC units found in dumpsters outside rv repair centers for a fraction of replacment cost for a replacment AC.

[@jlantz3691]

Great, in-depth review, covering things that many of us wouldn't even be aware of, or know that there are better options out there. Would appreciate a review of any model Rockwood Mini Lite. We bought a '23 2205S last spring, and have been faitly satisfied. We had a drawer support fail that hadnt been properly secured, and a piece of trim come off. Both pretty quick fixes. We took a tour of the factory in Millersburg, Indiana, snd came away impressed. I highly recommend a potential buyer do this if possible. No better time to see the inner workings, and the workers in action. We had unfettered access, and could ask anyone questions we had. A worthwhile trip for sure. Appreciate your work.

[@RussKinsey]

I’m so glad I found your channel! We’re not even at the “kicking tires” stage, just gathering information. Grand Designs used to be at the top of my list. Based on what you’ve shared about frame design and plumbing, it’s now OFF my list. I’ve signed up for your free course and will take the paid course once we get closer to picking a unit. Thanks again for the valuable education!!

[@stephenbrasure4331]

Thanks for providing informative reviews that really provide useful information about RVs. We purchased our first RV way back in 1989 and after spending some time at a dealership and looking at what is on the market, I was amazed at how much crap is being sold. Anyone looking to purchase an entry level RV really needs to do their homework if they want to avoid purchasing a rig that will be worthless in very little time. Your reviews and tips will be tremendously helpful, so keep up the good work!

[@undercoverrvtech]

Thanks for the kind words!

[@blackcoffee730]

They really have all gone down hill

[@MYJ61]

I work for a large RV dealership chain and have worked in the industry for 8 years. I can’t agree with you more regarding construction quality. I feel that we need to cast an eye towards Europe for inspiration.

[@slothslair]

As an RV delivery driver I'm pretty happy when a brand new unit makes it 100 miles without anything falling apart

[@lamarromero]

Holy hell. This is amazing. More of this...I want to now the best built RV's out there for the buck!

[@gettinemail]

Well done video, sir. You confirmed what most of us already suspect...and it doesn't make us feel better to be right... but at least now we know. An informed consumer can save time and money, so thank you.

[@guccifreak0]

Good info, Nice to hear someone that tells it like it is, Unlike the sales which tells you anything to make a sale,

[@Metalrogue]

It's definitely eye opening to see the state of RVs coming from the factory.

[@user-cw8ng6no9r]

Great job. Love your inspection videos! Please review Tandara (East to West) 321RLOK vs Jayco Eagle 317RLOK vs Keyston Cougar 338 RLK. All have outdoor kitchens, bedroom slides, rear living with kitchen islands. Very popular fifth wheel layouts so it would be great for consumers to understand how you would review these layouts.

[@christinegodshall6729]

Thanks for the great videos, and the "Don't Get Stranded" checklist! I'd vote for Lance, Ember, and Airstream. We have a nuCamp Tab 320 that's great and plan to trade up so we can go full time in the future. But we still want the level of quality in our beloved Tab.

[@undercoverrvtech]

Airstream reviews coming up this season! I will add your vote for Lance and Ember to my list. Thanks for watching!

[@roadtripwarriors7458]

Great video! I see that your channel is only about 4 months old and you already have almost 18,000 subs. I think this channel will grow even more rapidly because there are many people that are very interested in this content, particularly with the poor quality of many RV's that are rolling off the assembly lines. To my knowledge, I believe you may be the only channel that produces content such as this. It probably goes without saying but you have a new sub here and I look forward to all of your future content! Thank you for what you do!!

[@undercoverrvtech]

That is very kind of you to say, thanks!

[@roadtripwarriors7458]

@@undercoverrvtech Thank you! This channel is going to be huge! I follow a lot of RV channels and although there are a few RV inspection channels, I have seen nothing to compare with your channel. Your production quality is top notch, you have a clear, articulate and engaging delivery, and your knowledge seems extensive. I don't think anyone else is doing a scoring system like you, which is very effective (I think this will be a game changer among RV inspection channels). All the pieces appear to be in place and when you expand on your Undercover RV segment, you will attract a lot of viewers. With the content that you appear to be gathering, you can post frequently, which will help your algorithm's. I had a conversation with Josh the RV Nerd at the beginning of the year when he crossed 200,000 subs and I predicted he would reach 280,000 by the end of this year (as of the date of this post, he is at 258,000). I love Josh and his content but I believe you will eventually exceed his number of subs. I may be overly optimistic but I would not be surprised to see your channel surpass 100,000 subs by year end. Let's see how my prediction holds up at that time. Take care!

[@TellNoL437]

One thing that sets this apart from all the other channeles is how he describes the different qualities of the RVs. For example when he descried in this video the differences with cabinets and what to look for with plumbing. Other channels don't describe that at all. They just comment if they like it or not. I have learned more in this video than I have in a year with all the other channels I have viewed.

[@55keyj]

Just take the bug screens off before getting rv serviced lol.

[@theghostlyorb]

Thank you for putting out solid information! This is the kind of detail I try to look for when shopping for an RV. However what you posted with the water lines... that's going on my check list. I was more concerned that it wasn't leaking.

[@JeffEmburyEsquire]

First time seeing your videos, I'm impressed and I'll be subscribing and going to your website... Thank you

[@brendadoyle580]

Fantastic Video!!! I only wish it was out 6 months ago before I bought a rig with all but 1 of the negative components that you shared.

[@FunDuude]

Dude you Rock. Great video. You should do some on Motorhomes. lol. Winnebago's, Newmars, Tiffins.

[@rob3812]

Love what your doing. Hopefully manf will see these issues and correct and make them better

[@ricksmith7631]

Your vid came across my feed and I'm very glad I didn't hit the refresh button so I thought a look over morning coffee was worth it - glad I did and subscribed right away cuz I see so many videos I want to watch later. As a master tech for CW, I can agree with you almost 100 percent and would love to do this kind of work because I have nightmare stories about RV's and how they've progressed over the years and its a steep slope going downward. People wont do their homework and its guys like you that people need to listen to instead of the hungry salesperson. Anyhow, look forward to the rest of your material.

[@undercoverrvtech]

Thanks for watching! I hope to encourage manufacturers to do better because I know they can. Yes, the amount of just dumb stuff I've seen that ruins people's vacations is really sad.

[@coreymerritt7742]

Great video Jacob it just goes to show how much rvs have so many defects the manufacturers have to step and do better inspection’s and or pdi before leaving the plant that also implies to the dealers as well thanks 👍

[@larrsinelapinsky6907]

This was the second RV review of yours that I watched and again.I wanna say thank you.I've learned so much fromy husband passed in 2009 and I bought my Keystone bullet 2020 331 bhs....I wish I had known about you then...thank you

[@reneglenney2511]

Thanks for all the good information. This really helps when I go buy my next camper. Love you videos!!

[@mikepowers6357]

Great job! I would like to see you review a grand design imagine.

[@KellySimon]

Holy cow the videos I've been waiting for!!! Our vote is to see a Grand Design Imagine, a Rockwood Ultralite, and a Jayco Whitehawk. I guess you could add a Cougar Half-ton in there too. Thank you!!!

[@undercoverrvtech]

Several of those I have footage of me reviewing. The rest are on my list! Thanks for the request

[@bensatterwhite5694]

When I bought my camper I purposely bought one without a slide out. To many people I know that have one with the slide out have problems. Problems with the mechanics of the systems and leaks. My in-laws bought a camper about the same time I bought mine with a slide out. They were trapped at the camp grounds in the rain because the slide would not come back in on the first trip out. The luckiest thing I had with my camper was that it flooded during hurricane Imelda and insurance totaled it. If we’re to buy another one it would be something small like a casita.

[@freeconfederate]

Don't own a RV. Don't want a RV. However, greatly enjoyed your professional take and digging deep approach to the RV industry. Where is everyone else on every other subject needing attention just like this? Best of luck on your channel. Love it.

[@dgcorozco]

WE NEED MORE PEOPLE LIKE YOU 😀

[@molynn5244]

GD and Brinkley and KZ RV....I would love to see reviews on the GD and KZ "half ton" towable 5th wheels, especially if they are compared with their standard sized kin! This is awesome and thank you so much!! Great information (I'm a total newbie and currently shopping for my first RV).

[@undercoverrvtech]

Added those to my list, thanks for watching !

[@timdennis5853]

Keep them coming. Can’t wait for Grand Design Reflection.

[@undercoverrvtech]

It will be in my next review video! Coming out soon!

[@OmahaWayne]

LOVE THIS !!!!! I would lke to see you review the brand new Alliance Delta Travel Trailer. I have started your RV course how not to break your RV and it's AMAZING so far !!!

[@shellybudgett229]

Thank you for this new service! I would love to see a review of the Alliance Delta 292RL Travel Trailer and Grand Design Imagine 2970RL. Again, THANK YOU for your videos

[@monroe2245]

Thank you very much. Being in rv repair, youre definitely in the right business. For some reason the market is growing but with no sign of build and product quality improving. The up side is, because of the vast numbers of people buying RVs today, the "volume" of discontent will only grow louder. I wonder how many more years itll take before it gets loud enough to where the mfg's will situp and listen...

[@wanna.go.here2there-everywhere]

Thank you so much for sharing! We need an RV undercover detective out there !!! Keep the videos coming!

[@user-zz9bf9mh2k]

Subscribed. Awesome idea! Thanks for the video!

[@tbo7756]

Holding the RV manufacturers to account for the junk they produce is long overdue. Have been RV'ing for over 20 years on our 4th RV. The first three were the standard laminated on aluminum frame type and they all delaminated after leaking. Bought a Bigfoot (fiberglass) camper 9 years ago and haven't touched it, other than washing and tires.

[@Youngathearttravelers]

Can’t wait for the class c undercover episode!! I’ve heard it’s best to buy a pre-Covid gently used RV since the workmanship and quality greatly diminished since. Any truth to that?

[@rnordquest]

The COVID products are of worse quality if that can be imagined. But not to fear, the manufacturers compensated for that by substantially raising prices. What’s not to like?

[@roadmap1111]

Great video with many useful tips. I would like to see a review of Grand Design fifth wheels.

[@undercoverrvtech]

Coming soon!

[@kirkdupre]

Awesome video! Love the content.

[@undercoverrvtech]

Glad you enjoy it!

[@lot-a-timers4507]

I LOVE this!! Please do a Heartland Bighorn FW, Solitude FW and Montana FW….this wold be HUGE and many of us would love to see this….

[@undercoverrvtech]

I think I already have that footage and can do that lineup...stay tuned!

[@davehansen4536]

Really appreciate all of your content. Comparing quality of today's RVs to my '14 model is night and day. It's luck of the draw on whatever unit the customer ends up buying and so many have been hit with harsh awakenings after their purchase. May consider buying another RV in 5-7 years, but for now the hassle of dealing with shoddy construction, limited support/parts, and manufacturer ambivalence just isn't worth the bother.

[@user-pp3tg9cp5z]

Our Mallard M260 2022 is my favorite floorplan ever, but it's been through a few dings. All fixed, but while waiting for repairs, everything was still functioning!

[@DarinLickfeldt]

I've heard Northwood and Lance are higher quality travel trailers when compared to others. This would be a welcomed comparison.

[@jamesmiklos3887]

I love your videos they are very informative. I would love to see your view on Grand Design Imagine as we bought one a year ago and we have mixed feelings about it.

[@mikedr1549]

This is awesome! Frankly I'm fairly bright and capable in most areas but navigating the RV world seems daunting. I would be interested in seeing a review/score for the Little Guy MiniMax camper. My wife and I really like that one. Thanks!

[@slurugger]

these types of reviews are awesome! I also appreciate the level of details provided that support your opinion on something (i.e. plumbing). It helps validate your expertise in RVs. Count me in as subscribed!

[@samariagraham4502]

Keep em coming! Great content!!

[@undercoverrvtech]

Will do!! Thanks!

[@Crodmog83]

What a great channel. This is such a huge help,thank's

[@undercoverrvtech]

Happy to help!

[@user-qr6lh7ep5k]

I have a 2023 M260 Heartland. I perched this RV from Campward long story short in less than a year. I removed the internet Wagner from inside, and it was full of water from the rain leaking through the 360+ Dome from the roof, and the warranty from the dealership didn't cover. I had to pay of my pocket to get it sealed.

[@andylee3349]

Great video! Finally someone who is not just trying to sell their old inventory. Any recommendations on a used 5th wheel toy hauler? We’re looking at buying one in the next couple of months and planning on upgrading components as we feel the need for it. Between 35-42ft is what we’re thinking.

[@winstondafrenchie]

Hi Jacob, I would like to see your review of an Outdoors RV.

[@Myopinion411]

We'd love to see reviews on these Grand Design travel trailer toy haulers. 22MAV, 24MAV and 27MAV. We really want to see the 27MAV but considering they are all in the same Grand Design line they're probably all built the same just different floor plans. We understand that haulers usually take a bigger beating than just the average camper but we are concerned about hidden problems. Plumbing, refrigerators, water heaters, and of course, the frames.

[@kdsailorgirl]

Great information!! Loved the plumbing and slide info!

[@ecowise9700]

Please review a Lance travel trailer - thank you for your honesty and abundant tips - definitely appreciated 😀👍

[@undercoverrvtech]

On my list! Thanks for the request!

[@ImGumbyDangit]

Very good video. I'm still in a Pop Up tent trailer, but have been looking at RV's. Just my wife and I, so looking for something small, don't need a slide out. What blows me away is that the price they are asking for new units that (as you point out) are made of fake wood that balloons at the first sight of water.

[@clopstyle]

Great video. I would love to see a review of some toy haulers, in particular the Grand Design Momentum 31G/29G.

[@user-zk2fd9tg2l]

I would love to see some reviews of fiberglass trailers like Oliver, Bigfoot, Escape, Scamp, and Casita.

[@dunlapmichaell]

We've got 3 slides on our Class C and have the cables.....it's a 2008 and so far NO issues.

[@johnsonshieh50]

Expose all of them! I love your video.

[@mikelayow815]

Thank you for your video. I can say it's not just what you can see. I bought a Arcadia 3250. Suburban water heater blew up right down the welded seam. Also I dropped part of the under belly and found multiple problems a metal strap that holds the water tank not attached, wire nuts loose, the plug to drain the tank put in cross threaded. I could go on an on. The worst part is you spend this kind of money and nobody really cares. Thank the Lord I'm able to fix most of the problems.

[@Sky-Guy]

Would be very interested in seeing you do a review video of the new Heartland Corterra CT 3.0 5th Wheel, great channel BTW!

[@user-pp3tg9cp5z]

Also, I saw a video of a slideout just falling off the RV. Motivated me to clean out the storage in my slideout...I had tools in the underseat storage. I redistributed the weight and lightened the load of my slideout. I also bought slideout stabiliers once camp is set up in order to lesson the load. I saw your video about slideouts, so with my Mallard I might be screwed anyway.

[@TopBallzUSMC]

Great information, this will help me in choosing my 1st RV. Will share with my peers. Thanks!!!

[@keithdalton5228]

New Alliance Delta 292RL. - this is supposedly quality company. Interested to get your take.

[@alliancerv]

Thank you for the interest in Alliance RV:)

[@OmahaWayne]

@@alliancerv Love my Avenue !!!

[@BlackyBlackerson]

You mentioned the gas absorption system for the fridges. I have a Norcold that hasn’t worked on gas for a while. Your handy guide looks like it may help me out. I think I’ll be buying.

[@rkell1218]

Love the technical content. In my trailer I have had 2 leaks with the soft flexible hose. One was held directly on with a hose clamp and the other with a pex clamp. My votes for the next trailers are Rockwood mini lite, Cougar half ton and Outdoors RV.

[@undercoverrvtech]

Added your votes to my list, assuming you mean the Cougar Half Ton travel trailers?

[@rkell1218]

@@undercoverrvtech Yes Cougar Half Ton travel trailer was what I intended.

[@Myopinion411]

East to West toy hauler was one of 3 brands we were looking at and actually the one I was most wanting but after seeing this I will not even go look at them. If they would fix plumbing issues I'd love to get one but not now. Manufacturers need to put quality over quantity

[@brianm1916]

Awesome video. I hope it becomes a regular feature.

[@mhdavedmasse1491]

I would have loved seeing something about Winnebago!! I am learning a very hard lesson!

[@UnkeptCanine]

I would love to see you check out ATC's line of toy haulers.

[@undercoverrvtech]

Added it to my list! Thanks for the request!

[@gregwaltman6539]

Very informational video! I'd love to see you do a grade on a Arctic Fox campers, more specifically a 27-5L or any Northwood built camper sometime?

[@undercoverrvtech]

Just posted a short! kzbin.infoutJsuKdJKlY?feature=share

[@gregdelong1539]

Good video, learned a good deal of information, thank you.

[@mikeoxlong4025]

Great video, I appreciate your honesty!!

[@cchambersglenn]

Can you please review a Grand Design Imagine? Thank you for these videos 😊

[@joanndavis4843]

Wow! What an informative video. It's a keeper. Personally, I don't know why. But you never know when it might come in handy. As far as the plumbing in these RVs. If a house, a tiny house, or an ADU has to pass all kinds of city inspections, why can a $100,000 home on wheels just be built any which way without any inspections at all? Obviously, there are none in the manufacturing process by way of quality control techs, nor in any other kinds of inspections outside the RV industry. You mentioned some RV'S are overpriced lemons. Let's be honest they are ALL overpriced, lemon, or not.

[@bkanegson]

Would not go for a stick and tin design, and you thankfully confirm why. Very educational/ informative. Would look forward to similar comparisons of fiberglass designs.

[@b0borden437]

Geez if East To West just changed their plumbing failures, it would be a really great camper. Hopefully they will!

[@stevebowers9943]

Outstanding! I'd like to see this same type of video on higher-end 5th wheels $75k plus.

[@lindseye9760]

Great content! I appreciate the brutal honesty. We are looking at buying a 2024 Jayco 377RLBH. I'd love a thorough review of that. Thanks!

[@edwinrodeo]

I don’t rv but boy I would love this guy in my corner

[@777FlyGuy]

Love your Channel, Thank you , I have owned (4) different RVs , usually trade up every 3-5 years If possible I’m thinking about the 2024 Venture Sporttrek 333 VMI as my next consideration Can you review this Make and Model ? , I did watch a Manufacturing Plant Tour of Keystone RVs and was impressed with the video ; Thank you

[@jarrets2292]

THANK YOU!!!! looking to possibly buy a Trailer, I see a lot of junk out there!!! your info helps a ton

[@undercoverrvtech]

Glad it was helpful!

[@richardvasconcelos4683]

Help a old vet out,First time Rv looker,Very good with making thing's work better,How you feel about a 2024 Gulfstream 19' Vista trailer,Thank You,Rick in Cali.

[@SolarPowerMyRV]

Great channel bro!

[@cpfpv6410]

My new Dometic AC unit was defective with a bent squirrel fan in my 2021 Highland Ridge Open Range Roamer 264RLS when it was delivered to me as a new camper.

[@lordeloalvaro]

Thanks for your brilliant work, I'd love to see more videos like that.

[@undercoverrvtech]

Thanks for the kind words!

[@michaelferver5707]

Excellent video! Great detail. Thanks for all you do.

[@undercoverrvtech]

Much appreciated!