Wildcat trading twords an Open Road... Any thoughts?

I know this is a Wildcat forum, but I have noticed the large amount of combined knowledge and RV experience here and thought I'd throw a curve ball to all of you.

We are considering trading our 2004 Wildcat 29BHBP twords a 2007 Open Road 36. Sorry I can't remember the exact model no. but it has a rear lounge. I must say that some serious quality control issues at Forest River have been rearing their ugly heads, and led us to this decision.

I am a not-so-proud member of the Wildcat leak club, and have done everything in my power to try to correct the problems as soon as they are noticed, but they keep showing up just like the rotted wood and stained walls/ceilings. I've sent several e-mails to Forest River to inquire about repairs or maybe, by some miracle, some warranty help from them seeing how it is obvious design or quality control issues that created these problems in the first place, but none have been answered. The fiberglas, especially in the rear sides adjacent to the trunk are severly delaminated, obviously from water leaks. I have a previous post regarding the extensive luan and stud rot in the trunk. Also, fiberglas delaminating around each of the master bedroom windows in the front. I am very vigilant about roof sealant inspection and like I said, have fixed any trouble spots as soon as they showed up.

All the complaints aside, does anyone have any experiences with the Open Road fifth wheels? Any known defects or things to look out for? From what I see in the inspection, the quality and fit/finish seem better than our Wildcat.

We are getting what I feel is a great trade in allowance on our Wildcat, but I want to make sure we're not going from the fireplace into the fire.

Any comments or info would be appreciated.

If your wildcat has water damage and noticeable delamination and they're offering you a good trade in amount ,,,, that must say something about wildcats holding their value.

They're allowing me a little under 70% of the NADA trade in value... That is taking the existing damage into account. If it had held up to the test of time, I'd be getting the full 100% of trade in value. That is a difference of around $800-$900. A good chunk of change in my book.

You know from experience and from reading this forum what pitfalls you might have with a Wildcat. Have you found a forum that deals with Open Roads? That would give you a good idea of problems - if any.

Tater

Thanks Tater... I've been searching for that very thing, but no luck yet. I'll keep trying.

I couldn't find anything useful. What little I could find was dated 2008 or earlier. Not much help there.

Tater

Try your question here,

http://www.rv.net/forum/index.cfm/fuseaction/listings/forum/24

You may find this interesting.

Pilgrim is the manufacturer who built Open Road.

http://pilgrimrvsearch.com/index.cfm/mid-144464/a-art/id-2054611/

http://www.allworldauto.com/recalls/PILGRIM_OPEN_ROAD_recalls_888-12916-1.html

I camped next to a fellow this summer at myrtle beach. Told me he got a really good deal on open road as Pilgrim went out pf business.

Did anyone buy the rights for Open Road, or is it gone along with Pilgrim?