Seriously Considering a 378MBS

[JeffD68]

I thought we would stay in our 303RLS until we moved up to a 310GK or similar. DW decided that she really wanted a dedicated space for our 3 year old grandson. Retirement is only 7 months away and we intend to move to AZ but expect to come back to San Diego often. We will likely spend weeks or possibly even months back here and intend to live in our trailer while doing so. We can accommodate a guest for a night or two while camping in the 303, but of course there is not a private space. There are ripple effects as well. Like I'll need a new truck. It will be a 350/450/3500 DRW. That's super exciting. Back to the trailer. We have spent significant time in the Brinkley 3610. They are absolutely ruining first impressions of other manufacturers trailers. Their cabinet quality and fit and finish are actually shocking for a trailer. Unfortunately, if I'm moving up, I really want to be in a full profile with a drop frame. We toured a Montana High Country 351BH and really liked the layout and exterior storage. Unfortunately, the interior finishes and overall quality were lacking. It was a definite step down from Solitude. There are a few other makes/models that we would like to check out but the easy play is to stay in the GD family.

I would really appreciate any feedback current 378MBS owners might have. One of my primary questions is whether two ACs is sufficient. Anything you can offer would be appreciated.

 

[Calbar]

I thought we would stay in our 303RLS until we moved up to a 310GK or similar. DW decided that she really wanted a dedicated space for our 3 year old grandson. Retirement is only 7 months away and we intend to move to AZ but expect to come back to San Diego often. We will likely spend weeks or possibly even months back here and intend to live in our trailer while doing so. We can accommodate a guest for a night or two while camping in the 303, but of course there is not a private space. There are ripple effects as well. Like I'll need a new truck. It will be a 350/450/3500 DRW. That's super exciting. Back to the trailer. We have spent significant time in the Brinkley 3610. They are absolutely ruining first impressions of other manufacturers trailers. Their cabinet quality and fit and finish are actually shocking for a trailer. Unfortunately, if I'm moving up, I really want to be in a full profile with a drop frame. We toured a Montana High Country 351BH and really liked the layout and exterior storage. Unfortunately, the interior finishes and overall quality were lacking. It was a definite step down from Solitude. There are a few other makes/models that we would like to check out but the easy play is to stay in the GD family.

I would really appreciate any feedback current 378MBS owners might have. One of my primary questions is whether two ACs is sufficient. Anything you can offer would be appreciated.

We have a 2022 378MBS with the 3 factory A/Cs and dual pane windows. For us we usually have only needed to run one or possibly 2 ACs. the center one is AC/Heat pump which is nice to take the chill off. We have had 6 plus a dog in ours for 2 weeks while travelling and there is enough room. The den is especially nice. We have had some issues with ours that the dealer fixed and so far so good after that. We love the layout and DW loves the den for a private space as well.

Any specific questions just ask or PM me if you like.

Rob

 

[BWSTGDS]

I don't have direct experience with AC needs yet on my 377MBS, but have read that many with this floorplan get by with 2 ACs in hotter geographies with a few mods:

• RV airflow modules installed in 1 or both ACs (or the DIY version). Pull each ceiling vent and check/seal each to the racetrack ductwork.
• Added fan in den AC duct to improve cold air flow to that room
• Slide toppers to better shade the slides that have less insulation than the main roof.

Some ideas anyway for you. I'm doing the first 2 items to better cool the rig when we camp over in eastern Washington. The heat is dry there, but can reach 105F.

 

[Captcolour]

Looks like the 3rd AC would really help the air flow into the den. The heat pump is great for nights down to 40 to avoid using propane.

 

[JeffD68]

When I started this thread, I mentioned how impressed I am with the Brinkley fit and finish. Well in spite of my desire to be in a full profile, wide body Solitude, the exceptional quality of Brinkley won out. A buddy of mine purchased a Z3610 in November. Life threw him a curve, and now he wants out from under the six figure loan. He also wants my 303. This is just an ideal opportunity and a win-win. My wife and I spent a couple hours in the Brinkley yesterday really going over it with a fine tooth come. It isn't perfect but there are way fewer compromises than I've seen in any other fifth wheel and it just make most other RVs look a bit dated.

 

[dswartzinator]

The midbunk is a great choice! My wife and I have 3 boys still at home. We were going to get the rear living entertainment 3330RE, but the thought of my boys "stuff" being all over the place was a big turn off. To address your question about the AC, we had a 377MBH Cedar Creek with 2 ACs. The boys always complained either in the loft or the mid bedroom.
We just bough the Solitude 378MBS and paid for the 3rd AC. We haven't even picked up the unit, but I am sure we will stay plenty cool! GET the 3rd AC!