Hello, everyone!
I've been what some forums call a "lurker" (unregistered viewer) for about a year but as retirement approaches with more time for travel, I decided to join your group. Whether we end up with a good used Phoenix Cruiser 2350, 2351, Leisure Travel Libero, or certain smaller Coach House or Born Free RVs is unknown, but the knowledge gained by reading your comments and responses is a useful addition to my own experience and other research.
I grew up traveling in the '60's and '70's with Dad and Mom's three successively larger (16-22 feet) travel trailers and various powerful but overheating Oldsmobiles and Buicks that towed them. Their finally buying a Suburban for towing didn't happen 'til I was in college (mechanical engineering major at time, then on to the liberal arts), but did save them from summertime mountain grade travel while fretting over potential boil-overs. A few years ago, Dad got the travel bug again and bought a '97 Roadtrek 170 (Dodge Ram 2500) that we borrow but find a bit cramped for two. It is cleverly designed for what it is, and rides and handles well (though those Chevrolet Express-based units do drive more nicely), but the low ground clearance, partially from the freshwater tank mounted under floorpan (which could freeze), and the daily need to convert the rear bed into a dinette while not stepping on the dog vs using the tiny table up front that restricts movement, doesn't really meet our needs. Those needs also include towing an '03 Jeep Rubicon on some trips. Tent camping with the Jeep is still fun but not all the time, and never when making or breaking camp in the rain!
I'll have a number of questions that I'll keep in separate emails to avoid confusion, and hopefully some of you can answer. Thank you for what you provide for each other, and I hope I can also help some time. Take care!