Personally New to RV'ing Leaning Towards Grand Design Momentum 398M!

[arisythila]

Hello All.

I hope all is well, and everybody is doing well. Unsure if this is a very active forum or not, but I thought I'd introduce myself, and get some wisdom by the wise.

While I've been in 5th wheels when I was a kid. My wife, and our 4 children are looking at building a house, and need a place to stay for the mean time. We are looking at the Momentum 398M. Now right off the bat, I am already thinking about the following for upgrade. But given the site, I'm unsure if there are additional upgrades that can take place.

Off the bat upgrades:
3rd AC
Dual Pane Windows
8K Axles w/ Disc Brakes
Gen II 3 Season Door with Sliding Windows
Generator Onan 5.5w Gas Generator
Happi Jac Bunk System w Folding Sofas
Premium V4 Rockford Fosgate Speaker Upgrade w Amp + Subs
Rear Aluminum Deck system with Rear power Awning
Rear Patio Steps
Slide-out Toppers
Solar Package w/ 300w Panel, Controller & Inverter
Washington Stat Seal (Where we will be living on our land)

I'd personally like to see if they can do 3 heatpumps versus 3 AC units. Does anybody know if Grand Designs offers this?

Am I missing something for upgrades?

As for a vehicle for pulling, I am looking at a Dodge Ram 3500 Duelly CrewCab w/ 8 foot bed with 30k Direct Mount 5th wheel hitch by Mopar and of course the High Output Cummings Diesel, auto level rear air suspention, 50 gallon fuel tank. I was also considering the Ford F-450 with the PowerStroke. I gravitate more towards the Dodge however. (I've had bad luck with Ford).

Anyways, Anyhelp, or thoughts would be most appreciated. I look forward to becoming a part of the GDRV family.

Thanks,

Michael

 

[FT4NOW]

Welcome, this is an active forum, you've come to the right spot. Only upgrade your missing is dual pane windows and then decide if you want the half bath in the garage.

I really wanted the 398, but when we ordered there was no half bath option.

We lived in our 399 for 3 years and started with 3 kids and had 4 by the time we were done living in it. The half bath was a deal breaker for us, we were glad to have one.

There are quite a few people that will recommend the F450, I'd go that route if I was doing it all over again.

If you have specific questions, ask away, there are very helpful and expieranced people on this forum.

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[arisythila]

Hello,

I do have the dual pane windows, just forgot to mention them. LOL We boght 20 acres in Chelan, WA, and it gets a bit cold, so adding things like dual pane windows makes sense.

We are interested in the half bath, but no idea if we go that route if it moves the washer and drier hookups, or if it removes them. My wife 100% wants the washer and drier.

Re: Truck. What makes the F-450 your choice, or the choice of many on this form? Are there any key features that just push it over the top? I'm sort of a huge fan of the Cummings diesel motors. They are super easy to work on and last forever. really unsure about the V8 Power stroke motors.

Thanks again,

Michael

 

[FT4NOW]

No clue if the half bath changes the washer and dryer hookups. You could call GD and ask, they should be able to tell you. I agree with your wife, washer and dryer is a must while living in it. Ours paid for itself in about 10 months compared to all the laundromat visits, not to mention the convenience.

As for the 450, it has a much smaller turning radius, commerical grade tires, bigger brakes and a beefier axle. On paper the payload is less than a 350 dually because they both have a 14k GVWR, but the 450 is slightly heavier. This is only done to keep the trucks in the same class whereas a GM or Dodge 4500 series is a higher class which changes registration fees and possible driver license requirements.

The Ford 6.7 is a great motor and anything 2015+ has all the bugs worked out, so no need to worry about reliability.

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[arisythila]

Yeah, I agree with you and my wife 100%. I was thinking about getting a container and installing residential laundry machines in there. But honestly this makes sense for us I believe.

Smaller turning radius in any situation is a good idea. I was looking at the payload, and noticed this as well. Both are 14k GVW's but the Ram seems to have a bit more capacity. The Ford at the moment comes in at 93k, while the Dodge comes in around 84k. So a bit steep of a climb there. (I'm buying new I think since Diesels are natorious for getting 200-500k miles on them before any major engine work.) Brakes are always a good idea to have good capacity there. However with engine break exceeding Fords, and having trailer brakes as well is it still worth the investment there? (I am ignorant and honestly want to learn).

The Dodge has 11.5" rear, and 9.5" fronts,
The Ford has 11.25" rears, 9.75" fronts.

I only know this because my old jeep runs Dana 60 fronts, and Dana 80 rears. But I was also pushing 40" tires. LOL

Is the better turning radius, brakes, axles worth the additional costs of ~9000 dollars?

Thanks again.

Michael

EDIT: I just noticed that the F-450 doesn't have any options for seating for 6. Only 5. Dodge allows me to get my whole family in the truck. (My kids are 14yo son, 12yo daughter, 7yo daughter, 4 yo daughter).

 

[FT4NOW]

For me, I'm happy with my F350 dually to save $9k. I use the engine brake a lot, its helps. The turning radius isnt terrible and like anything, you get used to it. Since we are a family of 6, the front bench was necessary for us. I do like the Ford center console/seat, it has an actual shoulder belt with head rest. Our kids range from 3 to 12 and my 11 year old son usually sits up front with us. Sometimes my 12 year old daughter sits there, but then it's a tighter fit. I would bring the whole family to test drive trucks so you can see how the seating works. I'm not Ford loyal, I just liked the front seat and that was very important to us. Also, I've had bad luck with 2 Dodges I've previously owned.

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[DarylB]

The F450 does have the 40-20-40 split bench front seat available on the XL, XLT and Lariat trims levels, giving you seating for up to 6
And the brake rotors are a lot bigger
Front 15.39"
Rear 15.75"

A comparably equipped F450 costs about $2000-$2500 more than a F350 dually

Smaller turning radius in any situation is a good idea. I was looking at the payload, and noticed this as well. Both are 14k GVW's but the Ram seems to have a bit more capacity. The Ford at the moment comes in at 93k, while the Dodge comes in around 84k. So a bit steep of a climb there. (I'm buying new I think since Diesels are notorious for getting 200-500k miles on them before any major engine work.) Brakes are always a good idea to have good capacity there. However with engine break exceeding Fords, and having trailer brakes as well is it still worth the investment there? (I am ignorant and honestly want to learn).

The Dodge has 11.5" rear, and 9.5" fronts,
The Ford has 11.25" rears, 9.75" fronts.

I only know this because my old jeep runs Dana 60 fronts, and Dana 80 rears. But I was also pushing 40" tires. LOL

Is the better turning radius, brakes, axles worth the additional costs of ~9000 dollars?

Thanks again.

Michael

EDIT: I just noticed that the F-450 doesn't have any options for seating for 6.

 

[arisythila]

The F450 does have the 40-20-40 split bench front seat available on the XL, XLT and Lariat trims levels, giving you seating for up to 6
And the brake rotors are a lot bigger
Front 15.39"
Rear 15.75"

A comparably equipped F450 costs about $2000-$2500 more than a F350 dually

Yeah the Dodge is only 14.2" front, and 14.1" rear. So considerably bigger on the Ford F-450

How did you get the 16k GVW on yours? Just an older model?

 

[DarylB]

Yeah the Dodge is only 14.2" front, and 14.1" rear. So considerably bigger on the Ford F-450

How did you get the 16k GVW on yours? Just an older model?

Up through MY 2007 the only 450 available from Ford was the commercial cab and chassis model that would normally have a service box or dump box installed, the C&C trucks have a higher GVWR
The original owner that ordered my truck had the Ford dealer send the truck to an aftermarket conversion company to have the pick-up box installed

 

[arisythila]

Hey Guys,

I ended up test driving the F-450 Dually, the Ram 3500 Dually, and the GMC 3500HD. GMC IMO was crap... Leaving only the F-450, and the Ram 3500.

Both were very nice vehicles, however honestly the Ram felt a bit better to me. The low end power was IMO a bit better than the Powerstroke, however, the powerstroke did seem like it had a bit more umph up top.

I ended up putting cash down on a 2020 Ram 3500 Laramie Crew Cab 4x4, with the 8' box today. The estimated time of arrival is Mid December. They were both very close in terms of performance, and handling and everything. Just the Ram just .... felt better IMO. It felt more like something I would buy and drive. The technology in the Ram IMO superceeded the F-450 any day of the week, the larger screen, seemed higher resolution, but the biggest thing that I liked the most was the air suspension, and the larger 50 gallon tank. The F-450 the guy said I could get in a 6-seater, but he said they only offered a 32 Gallon tank in Nevada.

I just thought that I'd share. Both I am sure are GREAT trucks for pulling fifth wheels 100%. They were both on equal footing, but Clessie Cummins got me ...

Now time to start the buying process for the RV! This is the exciting part!

Would you guys recommend the 8k axles over the 7k axles?

 

[FT4NOW]

Congrats on making a decision. I'm very surprised what the dealer told you about the fuel tank. Most of the new F350s come with 48 gallon tanks, you would think the F450 was the same. Either way, you got the truck out of the way, on to the trailer now. If you have the option, might as well get 8k axles and disc brakes if you can.

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[bertschb]

Would you guys recommend the 8k axles over the 7k axles?

Good choice on getting a dually for the Momentum! As for axles for the RV, if you can swing the $$$, I'd get MORryde IS and disc brakes. The gold standard in RV suspension! A distant second choice for me would be 8k axles with disc brakes.

 

[DarylB]

Congrats on the new truck.
Not that it makes any difference, but I don't think that sales guy knew what he was talking about on the fuel tank capacity of the F-450.
According to the Ford spec guide all F250, F350 & F450 crew cab long box trucks (176" W have a 48 gal tank (see attached pic)

On the subject of axles and brakes, I agree with what FT4NOW and bertschb said, go with the MORryde IS/disc brakes or at least the 8k disc brake option

 

[SC_Scott]

Great choice on the Ram, if you just ordered it it’ll be a 2021 and from my info on the Ram HD forum I’d be shocked if you see it before Christmas as FCA turnaround times are running around 2 months or longer.

 

[arisythila]

Congrats on making a decision. I'm very surprised what the dealer told you about the fuel tank. Most of the new F350s come with 48 gallon tanks, you would think the F450 was the same. Either way, you got the truck out of the way, on to the trailer now. If you have the option, might as well get 8k axles and disc brakes if you can.

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He was an older guy... He just said that a majority of what they get is the lower capacity tanks, and he wasn't aware of a bigger tank. (shrug) I am just happy to be done with this part of the journey.

Good choice on getting a dually for the Momentum! As for axles for the RV, if you can swing the $$$, I'd get MORryde IS and disc brakes. The gold standard in RV suspension! A distant second choice for me would be 8k axles with disc brakes.

I'll check out those Axles. Are those the air suspension axles? Ohh Just googled.. Seems interesting. This maybe something I look at getting down the road, as for the first 3 years of ownership, it will mainly sit still.

Congrats on the new truck.
Not that it makes any difference, but I don't think that sales guy knew what he was talking about on the fuel tank capacity of the F-450.
According to the Ford spec guide all F250, F350 & F450 crew cab long box trucks (176" W have a 48 gal tank (see attached pic)

On the subject of axles and brakes, I agree with what FT4NOW and bertschb said, go with the MORryde IS/disc brakes or at least the 8k disc brake option

View attachment 30673

Yeah, I am not 100% sure.. But yeah he did say that. I wasn't able to find anything on their website when I built one.

Great choice on the Ram, if you just ordered it it’ll be a 2021 and from my info on the Ram HD forum I’d be shocked if you see it before Christmas as FCA turnaround times are running around 2 months or longer.

Thanks! This is actually a ram they had on the way. Its suppose to get to the ramp on the 20th. But I got a really good price on it. It was normally 84k for the options I wanted. I am getting it for about 10k off (72k + tax + licensing)

So I went that route as the 2020 and the 2021 are pretty much identical.

Thanks again for the input! Few more steps to go!

 

[Flash! BAB USA]

I pull with both a Ram 3500 and a 4500 flatbed. The one thing I will never change from is I am now using Goosenecks from Anderson Hitches and LOVE them! No fuss no muss and much easier to line up, which means my wife and I do not get agitated with each other just before we hit the road, LOL!
Here is a cool shot of the 4500 with diesel 22.5" wheels and graphics in MT

 

[Band1t]

Well done. A buddy just ordered a new Ford F350 dually, and will not see it until March 2021. I will be looking for a similar truck next year to pull a new Solitude. I currently pull a TT with a 04 Dodge 2500 I bought new, and have loved. My mechanic tells me the newer Fords are better than Ram. If I had to buy today, I would buy Ford with the larger speed tranny. I expect Ram to upgrade the 6-speed AISIN in the next two years. I'm interested to see how the Ram air suspension works, forums show lots of problems.

 

[arisythila]

I pull with both a Ram 3500 and a 4500 flatbed. The one thing I will never change from is I am now using Goosenecks from Anderson Hitches and LOVE them! No fuss no muss and much easier to line up, which means my wife and I do not get agitated with each other just before we hit the road, LOL!
Here is a cool shot of the 4500 with diesel 22.5" wheels and graphics in MT View attachment 30732

I was looking at the 4500 as well, but it seemed at least at the time that the 3500 was a better buy. (no bed versus bed.. ) Your rig is awesome looking! I like the wrap on it... pretty sweet! Yeah the Gooseneck seems like a pretty sweet option. I have the gooseneck/5th wheel prep package, I haven't standardized on how I will pull it, but I do agree gooseneck seems to be a bit nicer, than the 5th wheel... Maybe you get more movement on the 5th wheel as they articulate a bit? (shrug).

 

[arisythila]

Well done. A buddy just ordered a new Ford F350 dually, and will not see it until March 2021. I will be looking for a similar truck next year to pull a new Solitude. I currently pull a TT with a 04 Dodge 2500 I bought new, and have loved. My mechanic tells me the newer Fords are better than Ram. If I had to buy today, I would buy Ford with the larger speed tranny. I expect Ram to upgrade the 6-speed AISIN in the next two years. I'm interested to see how the Ram air suspension works, forums show lots of problems.

IMO after driving both, the Ford totally had more top end power. I think its rated at 475hp, and 1050ft/lbs of torque. Dodge is 400/1000. So it is a bit less power than the Ford F-450. Working on the Cummins IMO will be easier because its a I6, also has less moving parts because its an I6 versus a V8. It also seems to be very common for the Cummin's to hit 500,000-750,000 miles pretty easily without having to rebuild much as long as you take care of it. My buddy has one that is at like 900,000 miles, and he just did routine maintenance.

I will be modifying things slightly to bring up the HP, and Torque figures (Exhaust/Intake/Tuning).

One of the major reasons I went with the 3500 versus the F-450 was the possible need of needing a CDL. I guess going from Nevada to Utah, you need a CDL, even if its private, and you're not pulling anything. Given that I don't really like the police(or most importantly getting pulled over by the police). Something I want to avoid. I haven't seen many reports of the 3500 having that issues, given its still got a 14k GVWR. No idea.

None the less, I am excited to get the truck, I may have to wait on modifications because NV requires smog checks and stuff, and I am not sure if opening up the exhaust, and getting a cold air intake on the RAM requires deleting any of the diesel short comings. meh? LOL

EDIT: I do not wish harm on law enforcement officers, I just don't like dealing them them, or the triad that is formed against you if you try to fight it... nothing more...

 

[lorend]

Arisythila, welcome to the chat and congrats on the new adventure in your life. I see you are moving to Chelan. Great area. Not sure what the vehicles taxes are in Nevada but hold onto your shorts when you go to register it in Wash. As for a license in Wash, there are no special license requirements for towing an RV of any size with any size truck. In the Chelan area there are also no yearly emissions tests that you have to do.