*[UPDATE!] I recorded this RV JUST as the new 2023 updates were rolling out. Full details weren't yet available. Alliance has gone to double azdel composite paneling walls for 2023! That means now both the inside and outside layers are azdel! Awesome update!*
I KNEW it. Alliance RV has a kitchen trash bin with an OUTSIDE ACCESS DOOR. LOL! Take a look at my FOLD OUT. Make it for a few bucks and can be used to FULLY REPLACE a BROKEN SLIDE SYSTEM maybe in an older 5th wheel. Rip out the broken slide and make this instead! EVEN BIGGER! On my channel - 1st vid, starting with my cat.
lol when I first read this my brain thought you typed "Does *NOT* have slide windows for airflow" and I was like "wait.. it totally does" Had to read this a few times. I need caffeine lol
Oooooo! Sneaky fireplace storage!!! NICE!!! I think I'd replace/make the dining table into a desk and make the living room seating dine-ofas. I wish Alliance didn't feel the need to remind their customers what brand of RV they bought by putting their name on every single slide. I'd cover them up with something. I LOVE the wood window uppers! GORGEOUS! Oh poop, there's floor vents. Silly Alliance. And silly Alliance for not including a door window shade. That little cubby in the bedroom would be an awesome place for light up décor. You'd need a sticky something to make sure it doesn't fly during travel days. Oooooo! More sneaky storage in the bedroom! How fun! I'm not one who likes having a bathroom in the kitchen. In my opinion, it would have been much happier as a front closet or butler's pantry, or both! WHEN we get our FW, I'm thinking we'll be in road mode every 2-4 weeks. We're wanting to full time, even snow camp at least once. Pair-of-dime (Paradigm) = 20 cents!!!!!! Heeeee heeeee! WHOAH, basement storage!!!!
The dark colored wood reminds me of like every apartment in the 1990s lol. Personally I would have loved to see a more natural colored wood trim and cabinets. Kinda like they did in the Avenue
I think that was a rollover from the 1980's. When people think 80's they often think of neon colors and checkerboard floors but everything was brown. All of the browns.
Nice effort Josh... just a little too much silly talk for my liking, but you've done the best walk thru of this unit I've seen... I've compared the Grand Design 380FL to this Alliance 385 FL, and whilst they look very similar, the Alliance clinches it hands down... The entry door, falling behind the kitchen slide, that gives access to the half bath, Refrigerator, and bedroom at a pinch, "On the road" without putting slides out is the winner. I think the Shower setup, with body jets, and the look of the shower enclosure, on the GD 380FL, is REALLY nice, but it doesn't override the Alliances better setup. The extra Solar is a great addition, but we'd have liked to see an on demand water heater.... but that could be retrofitted...
Im glad that Alliance listened and added the big solar package and 12volt fridge to the paradigm models that people had been asking for in their social media groups. Also the full body paint option. Only thing left is beefier 8-9k lb axles or Independant suspension, so you can have some carrying capacity with all that storage. They have been great about changing things up from their customer feedback and I wish them well. They were on my short list for a new RV to move up to from my GD unit that I was fulltime in before I went back to a brick and sticks. If/When i decide to go back to the RV life itll be this 385FL model or their Valor 40v13 model for my choice.
Hey Josh please deliver this one to me😊😊 Extremely nice 5th, I think Alliiance is fast becoming my other RV Brand!😊😊👍👍👍👍👍👍👍👍👍👍 Great Work Josh 😊😊👍👍👍👍👍👍👍👍👍👍
At 11:48 what is the hole in the wall? Maybe a prep for a safe? I don't know but I'd like to put a small safe there and cover it up with a picture. In answer to your question, my desire is to buy an acreage and live in the 5th wheel while I build my house. I could use this beauty!
Another informative and hilarious review! Thank you! We are debating between this and the Solitude 380FL. The one thing I can’t get over is with all the great use of space for storage here, what happened to the bathrooms?! In the master, it has this big wall in the back over the vanity and a little tiny mirror/medicine cabinet!! I mean, what the heck? That whole wall could be used for storage and/or mirror space! And the 1/2 bath should also have a medicine cabinet. They really missed the mark on that. It’s the only area the Solitude really wins out for me. I do prefer the wood paneling wall in the bathroom they had in the 2022 model though. Also for a full time rv, it really should have a tankless water heater. Can those be installed after market? Thanks again!
The lighter wood, white cabinets, and flooring are very nice. Looks great and really lightens the space. The wood could be even lighter. Pocket doors are great, especially for bathrooms.
Mmmm - mmmm - mmmm - this really suits me and hubby's living style - EXCEPT - we need theater seats with massage and heat would be nice too. Love the minimal farm house distressed look. Best to you Josh!!!
Josh I am really interested in the Alliance 382RK. I would like for you if you could do a review on that model . Someone else did a walk through of the 382 RK but they did not go into details like you . He did a walk this the kitchen this the living room this is the bedroom . I could see that on my own. If you could do a review I would greatly appreciate it. Thank you
Dump the 2nd toilet and turn that into laundry area. I wouldn’t mind crawling over the bed to go potty if I had to. Then I could keep my closet space in the bdrm. Other than that I really actually like it. I’m a pain to please. 😜
Like you, I really like Alliance and where they are going with their units. Especially their support. I just have to nit pick a little bit on this unit. It is my favorite unit from Alliance, but I really wish it had a 106-gallon black tank, even if I have to dump from two different places. A front windshield with TV on a televator so I can see out the front windshield and my pet peeve, side valances. I noticed they are in the bedroom but nowhere else. You put in black out shades that don't really black out due to not having the side valances. I also don't like the command center is open so that a child can come in and just start pushing buttons. These are not deal breakers but with those things this unit would be about as perfect as you can get in my opinion. Really nice improvement over the 2022 model!
Since this competes with the Durango Gold front living model, they really need to step up their game and add a dishwasher and convection microwave like Durango Gold. Durango Gold also gives you pillows for the front living room and a storage ottoman. If some RV company was smart, they would include a storage ottoman with a pull-up desk. That would be genius since we all have laptops that we need to use! RV kitchen tables are not the most comfortable spots to work/play.
@@JoshtheRVNerd Yes; I forgot about that! I love the storage aspects of the Brinkley models. I can't wait 'til they come out with a front living and a dual suite model!
Great review, I am also looking at the GD Solitude 308FL. on of my comparison dislikes is the smaller bar top and no flip up storage on the bar top, and the utility switches in the bedroom hall and looking at in in Qurtzsite the gap between the counters and stove. Non are deal breakers but things I noticed.
The 12 volt fridge is truly revolutionary in that it offers so much more flexibility for travel or a few nights of off grid use than a one trick pony “PARK ONLY” residential fridge👍👍👍
Hey Josh very impressed. I’m a travel trailer guy InTech Terra Oasis, if I could talk into selling the sticks & bricks, this would be my first choice. We currently winter three months of the year in NM & AZ and regional 2 week camping 2 weeks at home in Madison WI, because it’s still a cool place to live, I just got to leave when goes from cool to freezing :)Why you ask let me tell you; travelability, enhanced solar package to keep my Boondocking “Cheap/Economy “ minded travel life style. By the way what battery setup comes with their high end solar option? Did I miss the tongue weight/ tow weight overall dimensions piece of the presentation, that sometimes happens when these old eyes watch Utube on a phone.
I put them at the start, but here's a 2nd copy to make it easy for you! :) Base Paradigm 385FL Specs: ► 41'4" LENGTH ► 13'4" HEIGHT ► 101" WIDTH ► 14,517lbs EMPTY ► 2,283lbs CARGO ► 16,800lbs MAX ► 2,875lbs HITCH ► 98 Gal FRESH ► 106 Gal GRAY ► 53 Gal BLACK ► SOLAR 320w
Josh, thanks again for the reply and all you do, What’s the battery package in the Ultimate Boondockers edition you showed us? (3) BattleBorn or other 270 Abe each …???? AND what’s the price of the one that you showed us??? I also like your quirky humor, your wife and mine could spend days chatting that topic up😎👍😊
@@johneskrich362 You know.. I'm not finding details on their batteries anywhere.. I would recommend contacting one of the stores locally that carries alliance for expanded details on that while I add that to my list of stuff I need to learn!
This is *exactly* what we want for full-timing! Love the interior aesthetic...not too distressed...not too uber-clean. Love the exterior storage. The solar package is spot-on especially considering the 12v compressor fridge. I *might* upgrade the batteries if I was planning on longer term off-grid camping but, all in all, this is exactly what we are looking for... A properly equipped 3/4 ton should be able to handle this one...yes? :-) Thanks for sharing this one, Josh. Love the channel and the tours.
Solar package is a great touch. The interior still has a lot of brown tones? Do they plan on changing any of the doors/trim to light gray? The gray and white interiors seem cheerier, along with flat trim around slides. Just an opinion here.
Thanks for taking the time to talk to my wife and me at the camper show in Novi Michigan. Love what you do to inform campers about the good, bad ,and ugly things you find in all companies who build these RVs.
Thanks Nerd! I really like the little details like each water line has a shutoff valve near the fixture, or the way they manage the lighting. These small "attention to detail" things help justify the price for Alliance models, and I want to know about them. Besides, it's just cool!
Good morning Josh. As I was searching RUclips this morning for owner videos of Jayfeather Micro’s, it dawned on me there doesn’t seem to be a way to filter out salesman videos and random walkthroughs so a guy could see owner videos. Absolutely nothing wrong with walkthroughs and rv salesman videos they just happen to be 90% of what pops when you search a model number. Anything a guy could do to avoid the walkthroughs and find owner videos easier or can you help lobby RUclips for another search filter? Lol. Thanks for doing what you do it is very much appreciated. Or maybe there is something an owner making a video can do so their videos are more easily searchable and we can get the word out? Any way no complaints just thinking out loud.
I'm pretty much over the "farmhouse movement", but the blend Alliance has here isn't a deal breaker. I haven't seen many brands pull off storage in traditionally non storage areas like these guys. The drawer behind the fireplace, the "hidden storage" dead space between the top drawer and the dresser top, and even the "mystery cubbie" in the bedroom. *chef's kiss*. Though I'd prefer the quiet A/C system in my pusher, I could live with the direct vent system if "quiet" mode was truly quiet. The only box left I'd want to check is full body paint. I'm not a big fan of 10 acres of bone white gelcoat with stickers slapped on it. Also, a big thumbs up to Alliance on the full tank testing and quality running gear. 👍👍 This is probably the most ideal floorplan for my needs, and if the day ever comes where I'm looking to "Five it", this li'l feller is on my short list. Another home run video, Uncle Josh
Thanks for explaining about having a desk in a front living. I've always wondered, in all the 5th wheels, is why they don't have an option for a desk. Today, a friend and I went to the Cleveland RV show. She wants to do some traveling with me (and help fund the gas cost!) She was totally unfamiliar with RVs, I wanted to show her the actual size of a class B, and other options. We went into a Vista 23TWS (have to admit, we needed a break from the sun and to sit for a few) and just fell in love with it. I would love to see your review of it, and any others with the twin bed option.
I love this RV, the layout is fabulous. I do like the lighter cabinets mixed with the brown. However, I seriously dislike the living room furniture color and style. It's a really off shade of brown and they are too rigid looking.
@@JoshtheRVNerd thanks, Josh! Are Bishs all over the country or just in Idaho? What's the general retail price and what size truck would I need to pull it?
@@lisamcclurg8284 we have about 20ish locations you can see here www.bishs.com/locations -- all over the place. And expanding regularly Pricing on anything in stock will also be right on that site!
We have a friend who has a n Alliance toy hauler - confirm about the bet post purchase support in the RV world. It made them a client for life - they are NOT going to replace it with anything other than another Alliance. Keystones loss. How would I use this FW? I'd live in it and mostly be in park mode apart from the occasional move for change of scenery... Decor? Much better than last year. Completely agree about the level of distressing too - its much more subtle.
I’m still liking the farmhouse lighter interiors. I believe I’d use that small cubby in the bedroom for a portable Bose speaker or something similar . The sound bouncing out of cubby would heighten the volume . Great looking RV overall .
I am not. This was about two weeks ago. I put a little post out here on the channel that was I traveling for a bit but with all the content I put out I think sometimes it can be easy to miss
Ditch the theatre seating...I want reclining love seat in the living room. I love my SO and enjoy cuddling even if I'm an old fart (I turn 60 in 2 weeks). If you don't love to cuddle WTF are you still married? Edit: I should know to watch all the way through the video...I do love the part-time theatre seating...the lift up/down thingee is awesome...hat's off to the maker of this 5th wheel...most of us normals do like to cuddle with our SO's. thanks for realizing it.
LOL - As I was reading this I was like "I wonder if he'll notice the sofa IS still cuddle compliant!" I think of you literally every time I see that style of sofa btw. No exaggeration. I'm like "Oh Richard will like this one!"
Loving Alliance! Really wish they would bring some of the interior color options from the Paradigm to the Valor line. Great solar package, although 300 amp hours of battery is not gonna run things for very long. Keep up the sharing is caring Uncle Josh!
My husband and I are very interested in the Jayco Northpoint 382FLRB but the front living Paradigm is really catching our attention. We would love to see a comparison video as you’ve done in the past with the Northpoint and Montana.
I'll try to make one happen sometime but my home store doesn't carry alliance and I don't feel I can make that content effectively without being side by side with them
👏👏👏👏for finally viewing/videoing Alliance. My wife said that this one checks all of her boxes, inside, outside, topside & bottomside🙂🙂. We could full time plus travel & do extended stay with family & not use their power. The half bath will be for me at nighttime or other time. The bathroom shower style with water saver should be standard in all fifth wheels & bigger TT’s. Great job come here & I’ll pat you on the back🙂🙂
@@JoshtheRVNerd Josh I understand that when you started with Bish’s, you had more locations with more brands & more ground to cover plus it’s you, yourself & you doing all of the videos, you have a much larger round-to-it. Have you seen a round-to-it, how about a wooden nickel?
I’m not a white interior person so this color pallet doesn’t work well for me. If I owned something,one this I’d have it out on the road though. The only ones I see as park models only are the rear drop frame unit. What were those unlabeled pull handles underneath? Sewer dump valves?
Hello Josh! Thank you so much for speaking with us last night at the Longview, Texas Bish's location during their Grand Opening. It especially thrilled my wife, and unfortunately she doesn't get very many thrills! Thanks again for your time, humor and honesty. It was very appreciated!
Beautiful upscale RV with ALL of the quality standard features needed for a perfect experience including a porcelain toilet, a large vent fan, solar, TVs, theater seating and an attached ladder👍👍👍The only downside is those patio eating campside slides☹️
Enjoyed the Video and this 5th wheel. As Dirty Harry said "a man has got to know his limitations", I have a class B CDL and I wouldnt be comfortable criss crossing the country pulling this behemoth. But if had a nice plot of wildneress property, I could see me getting in and out once a year.
I guess I have been looking at the farmhouse decor for too long. Just not a fan of the wood tones added. Not sure I could get past the direct dump AC's. Been in a whisper quiet system in TX summer and it was very quiet and very cool. Maybe put a small fireproof safe in that pocket. Someplace for full timers to keep important documents or something. Shower in the bathroom is really nice. Thanks Nerd!
Thanks again NERD! Likes: floating dinette, ductless ac, 3 acs, fireplace storage, 12v refrigerator 😁, w/d closet, outdoor speakers Dislikes: I think the wood tones make it look cheap. At this price point and to be comparable to its competitors it definitely needs a convection microwave, entry door window shade, magnetic door holds. A personal gripe. I want Victron components not Renogy. That is a deal breaker for me. Travel access to a bathroom is a deal breaker for me, or I should say for the DW, she can’t go more than 2 hours without a stop. If I wanted a 40’+ RV this would definitely be on my list if they used Victron components. Perhaps an option for an order? Also they need much larger solar controller options. This is maxed out already. Again short sighted designers or just being cheap not sure which. When I just added over 900 watts of solar to my fifth wheel I installed a Victron solar controller that could add several hundred more watts of solar without needing to do anything but add the panels and wire to the combiner box. The wires to the controller and the controller are ready for more power. They should do likewise or at least make it available as an option.
@@JoshtheRVNerd Victron has a 5 yr warranty. All Victron components talk to one another. The firmware is easily updated. Many parameters can be set configured for your specific brand of lithium batteries. The Victron color control is outstanding and they have the best battery monitor on the market.
If you ever see the Victron Color Control monitor that shows shore power, ac load, battery state, solar power coming in, what the inverter is doing (hybrid mode, charging batteries, solar charging batteries, etc you will better understand). I have talked to several dealerships and most will recommend Victron over Renogy etc., - if you can afford it. It is more expensive but you get what you pay for. I wish the manufacturer would offer various brands of electronics, as well as sizes of components such as inverter and solar charger. Or use the proper wire size when running wire from the roof to the bay so a DIY person or dealership can install equipment that meets the buyers needs. Currently, most buyers will be paying for equipment they will ultimately dispose of only costing them more in the long run. I could send you a picture of my Victron color control screen if I knew how. An example of what a properly built system can do. I was camping with my 50amp fifth wheel. Park only had a 20 amp house outlet. I put the proper dongles on my 50 amp cable. Set my Victron inverter to 20 amps. Plugged the rv into shore power. Southwire Surge Guard made sure power was clean. Color control showed 1900 watts of shore power. Both acs came on. Ac load was 2400 watts (also shown on the screen). Inverter instantly pulled power from lithium battery bank, converted to ac to make up the required ac power to run both acs (again shown on the screen). Solar saw the batteries discharging and started charging the batteries (shown on the screen). Again, All of this was on the screen. I didn’t have to do anything. Once the acs cycled off, the inverter and solar recharged the batteries. All of this is on the screen. The lines connecting the devices are like marching ants (similar to Toyota Prius screen) showing the direction of flow between the devices. It is a fantastic system. I don’t know if any other brand that has this capability.
It's too bad they didn't swap the bedroom and bathroom so they could do away with the little half bath. I'm liking the lighter color woodwork. Also could use a camp kitchen in the right rear storage areas.
Sir Josh. I am a prior Toy Hauler owner and the first question I asked was could I access the entire length of the RV while towing. They of course said yes but when picking up I found out no. I made them reverse the sliding glass door so we could actually access the entire RV. Is this something that is done on purpose?I frequently drive alone and my guests and family party in the 5th wheel. I know that many don't consider this safe but id this the reason.?
You must've meant dishwasher ready than washer dryer prepped in the kitchen. Great solar system but I highly doubt anyone that has this rig is not gona be a boondocker. I had to giggle at the "living cavity". Really great storage cavities throughout. 🤣😂🤣
I’m really starting to like alliance they seem like a company who’s not all about the profit$$$ rather about giving the best product for the money and one thing we all know is Time will prove out the weak manufacturers as their products fall apart and the better built ones gain reputation. Spending a few bucks more for individual shut offs under the sink then just one main shut off in the belly somewhere, in the off chance you could have a leak nonetheless looking ahead for that day impresses me about alliance , I will tell you this my next purchase will be one of their products because I know the things that I can’t see they’ve gone the extra mile! I think that cubbyhole in the bedroom is a perfect spot to take the pillows off of the bed and stuffed them into it so you don’t have to throw them on the floor or find somewhere else to put them they could all be so be a nice place to have an extra blanket stored or two, i’m glad they include it and leave patrons to figure out what to do with it or not at all but having the option is the best part as it could be used for many things I am really liking paradigm for not assuming . I see so many videos of people who have continuous failures of everything and their fifth wheels that it’s almost a biweekly occurrence doesn’t give a lot of us any peace of mind but I believe there are a few products out there that are building the best products I think alliance is going to prove they are one.
They're really growing on me. Where they captured me was when I joined their facebook group. I would see some owners report various challenges, but I would also see those same people report a positive and timely resolution to their challenges only a day or two later That kind of quick fulfillment is just not something I'm used to in the RV business and I saw it regularly. They call it their "Do what's right" warranty policy.
Promising, however I watch several of the alliance FB pages and I see way to many issues at this time. We are several years away from purchasing our next rig. I will be watching this company very close.
Since I wouldn't want to have to maneuver something this big around a parking lot too often, I think access to the half bath for the emergency potty stop and access to the fridge for the Kroger stop right before rolling in to the camp site might be enough. Husband can nap in the tow vehicle if he really needs to. This is probably just my personal taste but I found the mix of wood tones and farm house in the bedroom/bathroom area rather jarring and cheap-looking. It could have been the lighting though and I may not mind it if I saw it in person.
Really would like to see a front living room that is sideways, I dont need that much seating, and frankly the tiny love seat theatre is horrid. Would like to see the entertainment center rotated 90 degrees giving a larger Boardwalk and Park place seating, rather than the loveseat step combo. Sure the symmetry is messed up, but it would be like a living room at the back of the 5th wheel like all the others. Also any chance of putting small marks where the aluminum frame is located so pictures can be hung? Asking for wife because she wants it homiefied
*[UPDATE!] I recorded this RV JUST as the new 2023 updates were rolling out. Full details weren't yet available. Alliance has gone to double azdel composite paneling walls for 2023! That means now both the inside and outside layers are azdel! Awesome update!*
What is azdel
@@jasonschaeffer72 THis video will help ruclips.net/video/0S86wb-yGEM/видео.html
I KNEW it. Alliance RV has a kitchen trash bin with an OUTSIDE ACCESS DOOR. LOL!
Take a look at my FOLD OUT. Make it for a few bucks and can be used to FULLY REPLACE a BROKEN SLIDE SYSTEM maybe in an older 5th wheel. Rip out the broken slide and make this instead! EVEN BIGGER! On my channel - 1st vid, starting with my cat.
Thanks again Nerd.
I’m glad you asked. Having access to the bathroom and fridge is still a make or break thing
👍🏻
Just missing the awning on the back windows. We just bought this RV in BC Canada. Lovecit
seasonal site and a huge deck = but a boy can dream
Good place for a safe
The “road mode” is one of the big selling points for us. As full timers we may have a parking lot overnight we don’t want to bump slides.
😊 Thank you for watching!
Glad that segment is useful
i like that this is dishwasher prepped - easy to clean the paper plates
Hahaha
Josh, I would use that little cubby by the bed for my hearing aid charger unit and possibly my watch charger.
Smart!
The little bedside pocket in the bedroom might be a great place for a wifi router.
I could see that
That's a really nice rv.
I thought so!
That beast could get me back into a 5th wheel from our 40ft Pusher motor home! Your a kick !
A kick? Well.. been called worse lol
Our favorite 5th wheel nothing to change
Wow! High marks!
This is wow 🤩
I know!!
Hey Thanks Again Nerd! I appreciate all of the details you put into these videos.
Glad you like them!
Very thorough in depth review. I love Alliance
Ty
Thanks again josh
My pleasure. Thx Richard :)
Josh that rig also has slide windows for real air flow. Nice days are so much nicer when you can enjoy air flowing thru.
lol when I first read this my brain thought you typed "Does *NOT* have slide windows for airflow" and I was like "wait.. it totally does"
Had to read this a few times. I need caffeine lol
I love this floor plan and the two tone on the inside is a seller for me. This could very well be my next RV. Thanks for the great info Josh!
Our pleasure!
Oooooo! Sneaky fireplace storage!!! NICE!!! I think I'd replace/make the dining table into a desk and make the living room seating dine-ofas. I wish Alliance didn't feel the need to remind their customers what brand of RV they bought by putting their name on every single slide. I'd cover them up with something. I LOVE the wood window uppers! GORGEOUS! Oh poop, there's floor vents. Silly Alliance. And silly Alliance for not including a door window shade. That little cubby in the bedroom would be an awesome place for light up décor. You'd need a sticky something to make sure it doesn't fly during travel days. Oooooo! More sneaky storage in the bedroom! How fun! I'm not one who likes having a bathroom in the kitchen. In my opinion, it would have been much happier as a front closet or butler's pantry, or both! WHEN we get our FW, I'm thinking we'll be in road mode every 2-4 weeks. We're wanting to full time, even snow camp at least once. Pair-of-dime (Paradigm) = 20 cents!!!!!! Heeeee heeeee! WHOAH, basement storage!!!!
Lol this was a fun read. Ty
The dark colored wood reminds me of like every apartment in the 1990s lol. Personally I would have loved to see a more natural colored wood trim and cabinets. Kinda like they did in the Avenue
I think that was a rollover from the 1980's. When people think 80's they often think of neon colors and checkerboard floors but everything was brown. All of the browns.
Safe for the cube in the master
the dark wood hilights the rig nicely
Ty
@@JoshtheRVNerd np im leaning twards Alliance for our next rig in a few years they are very customer oriented
Nice effort Josh... just a little too much silly talk for my liking, but you've done the best walk thru of this unit I've seen...
I've compared the Grand Design 380FL to this Alliance 385 FL, and whilst they look very similar, the Alliance clinches it hands down...
The entry door, falling behind the kitchen slide, that gives access to the half bath, Refrigerator, and bedroom at a pinch, "On the road" without putting slides out is the winner.
I think the Shower setup, with body jets, and the look of the shower enclosure, on the GD 380FL, is REALLY nice, but it doesn't override the Alliances better setup.
The extra Solar is a great addition, but we'd have liked to see an on demand water heater.... but that could be retrofitted...
Thank you very much for providing the comparison preference feedback on this one. That’s really handy stuff
Im glad that Alliance listened and added the big solar package and 12volt fridge to the paradigm models that people had been asking for in their social media groups. Also the full body paint option. Only thing left is beefier 8-9k lb axles or Independant suspension, so you can have some carrying capacity with all that storage. They have been great about changing things up from their customer feedback and I wish them well. They were on my short list for a new RV to move up to from my GD unit that I was fulltime in before I went back to a brick and sticks. If/When i decide to go back to the RV life itll be this 385FL model or their Valor 40v13 model for my choice.
If they'd only listen about the horrible AC system.. so loud you can't even hear yourself think!
Hey Josh please deliver this one to me😊😊 Extremely nice 5th, I think Alliiance is fast becoming my other RV Brand!😊😊👍👍👍👍👍👍👍👍👍👍 Great Work Josh 😊😊👍👍👍👍👍👍👍👍👍👍
Sure. Check is in the mail, right?
❤ u man.
🤗
I loved this one but I also wish they offered some sort of bath tub in the master.
That seems like something you almost never seen in FWs anymore..
At 11:48 what is the hole in the wall? Maybe a prep for a safe? I don't know but I'd like to put a small safe there and cover it up with a picture.
In answer to your question, my desire is to buy an acreage and live in the 5th wheel while I build my house. I could use this beauty!
Another informative and hilarious review! Thank you! We are debating between this and the Solitude 380FL. The one thing I can’t get over is with all the great use of space for storage here, what happened to the bathrooms?! In the master, it has this big wall in the back over the vanity and a little tiny mirror/medicine cabinet!! I mean, what the heck? That whole wall could be used for storage and/or mirror space! And the 1/2 bath should also have a medicine cabinet. They really missed the mark on that. It’s the only area the Solitude really wins out for me. I do prefer the wood paneling wall in the bathroom they had in the 2022 model though. Also for a full time rv, it really should have a tankless water heater. Can those be installed after market? Thanks again!
They sure can
The lighter wood, white cabinets, and flooring are very nice. Looks great and really lightens the space. The wood could be even lighter. Pocket doors are great, especially for bathrooms.
Ty
Mmmm - mmmm - mmmm - this really suits me and hubby's living style - EXCEPT - we need theater seats with massage and heat would be nice too. Love the minimal farm house distressed look.
Best to you Josh!!!
Ty Terry
Josh I am really interested in the Alliance 382RK. I would like for you if you could do a review on that model . Someone else did a walk through of the 382 RK but they did not go into details like you . He did a walk this the kitchen this the living room this is the bedroom . I could see that on my own. If you could do a review I would greatly appreciate it. Thank you
I’m absolutely on the lookout for anything I haven’t been able to capture previously . TY for the suggestion!!
I want a nerd hat 😁
Only one in existence currently but we are working on that
Dump the 2nd toilet and turn that into laundry area. I wouldn’t mind crawling over the bed to go potty if I had to. Then I could keep my closet space in the bdrm. Other than that I really actually like it. I’m a pain to please. 😜
Like you, I really like Alliance and where they are going with their units. Especially their support. I just have to nit pick a little bit on this unit. It is my favorite unit from Alliance, but I really wish it had a 106-gallon black tank, even if I have to dump from two different places. A front windshield with TV on a televator so I can see out the front windshield and my pet peeve, side valances. I noticed they are in the bedroom but nowhere else. You put in black out shades that don't really black out due to not having the side valances. I also don't like the command center is open so that a child can come in and just start pushing buttons. These are not deal breakers but with those things this unit would be about as perfect as you can get in my opinion. Really nice improvement over the 2022 model!
Ty for the input Darrell
Would of like to see frameless windows and full body paint
Yeah their new full paint options are looking GREAT
I saw a Valor all painted.. my LORD it was stunning
The weird hole with the charging ports would probably be used to charge tablets or laptops for us 🤷🏼♀️
👍🏻
Since this competes with the Durango Gold front living model, they really need to step up their game and add a dishwasher and convection microwave like Durango Gold. Durango Gold also gives you pillows for the front living room and a storage ottoman. If some RV company was smart, they would include a storage ottoman with a pull-up desk. That would be genius since we all have laptops that we need to use! RV kitchen tables are not the most comfortable spots to work/play.
You mean like Brinkley's floating bench/ottoman/storage/desk?
Open range used to also do that years ago
I need to get a few durangos on file for sure
@@JoshtheRVNerd Yes; I forgot about that! I love the storage aspects of the Brinkley models. I can't wait 'til they come out with a front living and a dual suite model!
Great review, I am also looking at the GD Solitude 308FL. on of my comparison dislikes is the smaller bar top and no flip up storage on the bar top, and the utility switches in the bedroom hall and looking at in in Qurtzsite the gap between the counters and stove. Non are deal breakers but things I noticed.
Ty for sharing! Two good rigs you’re looking at there!
Full timer use pull it to summer destination then when the leaves fall off to the winter location
We call that snowbirding around here
Would like to see a video done on the Alliance Avenue 36BRM. Thanks.
I like what I see in the avenues and hope to get my hands on more of them for sure
The 12 volt fridge is truly revolutionary in that it offers so much more flexibility for travel or a few nights of off grid use than a one trick pony “PARK ONLY” residential fridge👍👍👍
Hey Josh very impressed. I’m a travel trailer guy InTech Terra Oasis, if I could talk into selling the sticks & bricks, this would be my first choice. We currently winter three months of the year in NM & AZ and regional 2 week camping 2 weeks at home in Madison WI, because it’s still a cool place to live, I just got to leave when goes from cool to freezing :)Why you ask let me tell you; travelability, enhanced solar package to keep my Boondocking “Cheap/Economy “ minded travel life style. By the way what battery setup comes with their high end solar option? Did I miss the tongue weight/ tow weight overall dimensions piece of the presentation, that sometimes happens when these old eyes watch Utube on a phone.
I put them at the start, but here's a 2nd copy to make it easy for you! :)
Base Paradigm 385FL Specs:
► 41'4" LENGTH
► 13'4" HEIGHT
► 101" WIDTH
► 14,517lbs EMPTY
► 2,283lbs CARGO
► 16,800lbs MAX
► 2,875lbs HITCH
► 98 Gal FRESH
► 106 Gal GRAY
► 53 Gal BLACK
► SOLAR 320w
Josh, thanks again for the reply and all you do, What’s the battery package in the Ultimate Boondockers edition you showed us? (3) BattleBorn or other 270 Abe each …????
AND what’s the price of the one that you showed us???
I also like your quirky humor, your wife and mine could spend days chatting that topic up😎👍😊
@@johneskrich362 You know.. I'm not finding details on their batteries anywhere.. I would recommend contacting one of the stores locally that carries alliance for expanded details on that while I add that to my list of stuff I need to learn!
This is *exactly* what we want for full-timing! Love the interior aesthetic...not too distressed...not too uber-clean. Love the exterior storage. The solar package is spot-on especially considering the 12v compressor fridge. I *might* upgrade the batteries if I was planning on longer term off-grid camping but, all in all, this is exactly what we are looking for...
A properly equipped 3/4 ton should be able to handle this one...yes? :-)
Thanks for sharing this one, Josh. Love the channel and the tours.
no, this rv needs 1 ton single rear wheel at minimum with a dually preferred. These are heavy units.
hello; this for me is an: if money wasnt a factor home...its a sweet setup. Thank You, Sir!
What about the toy hauler edition of that camper?
Here's a sample of one of their haulers bit.ly/3PIrOGf
Did someone mention an issue with Samsung refrigerators and warranty? I thought I saw something in the comments below but can't find it now.
Solar package is a great touch. The interior still has a lot of brown tones? Do they plan on changing any of the doors/trim to light gray? The gray and white interiors seem cheerier, along with flat trim around slides. Just an opinion here.
They just adopted what you see here with no immediate plans to change the decor for now
@@JoshtheRVNerd thank you.
Thanks for taking the time to talk to my wife and me at the camper show in Novi Michigan. Love what you do to inform campers about the good, bad ,and ugly things you find in all companies who build these RVs.
Absolutely my pleasure Donald! :)
Thanks Nerd! I really like the little details like each water line has a shutoff valve near the fixture, or the way they manage the lighting.
These small "attention to detail" things help justify the price for Alliance models, and I want to know about them. Besides, it's just cool!
Why do manufacturers put the inverter in the middle of the wall taking up storage space!!!
Thanks again, Nerd! 😅
This floor plan is perfect.
Good morning Josh. As I was searching RUclips this morning for owner videos of Jayfeather Micro’s, it dawned on me there doesn’t seem to be a way to filter out salesman videos and random walkthroughs so a guy could see owner videos. Absolutely nothing wrong with walkthroughs and rv salesman videos they just happen to be 90% of what pops when you search a model number. Anything a guy could do to avoid the walkthroughs and find owner videos easier or can you help lobby RUclips for another search filter? Lol. Thanks for doing what you do it is very much appreciated. Or maybe there is something an owner making a video can do so their videos are more easily searchable and we can get the word out? Any way no complaints just thinking out loud.
Apologies - RUclips search results do their own thing
@@JoshtheRVNerd No apology necessary. love your work.
Nice, do I need a dually?
Probably wouldn’t be a bad idea
It looks nice, I would have preferred a televator and a front window in the front lounge.
Can you review the 372 rk Josh?
This one? ruclips.net/video/5ceiIObyVG8/видео.html
Washer, dryer in the kitchen. Think what josh is trying to say is dishwasher prep. 🤣
lol 😂
Yeah..
Install a picture over the pocket hole, so that it could be used for hidden storage for valuables.
Love this idea!!
Xde÷d$ď@@loriw2661
I'm pretty much over the "farmhouse movement", but the blend Alliance has here isn't a deal breaker. I haven't seen many brands pull off storage in traditionally non storage areas like these guys. The drawer behind the fireplace, the "hidden storage" dead space between the top drawer and the dresser top, and even the "mystery cubbie" in the bedroom. *chef's kiss*. Though I'd prefer the quiet A/C system in my pusher, I could live with the direct vent system if "quiet" mode was truly quiet. The only box left I'd want to check is full body paint. I'm not a big fan of 10 acres of bone white gelcoat with stickers slapped on it. Also, a big thumbs up to Alliance on the full tank testing and quality running gear. 👍👍
This is probably the most ideal floorplan for my needs, and if the day ever comes where I'm looking to "Five it", this li'l feller is on my short list. Another home run video, Uncle Josh
Ty
Martin fisher I would say one ton at least to tow that safety maybe even Dulley
Dually would be my general guideline as well
Hello Josh, what are your thoughts on the KZ Durango 290 RLT? travel twice a month with 3 dogs and really like the large living area
Haven’t been able to see any yet so I don’t really feel qualified to get a view on them either way.
Thanks for explaining about having a desk in a front living. I've always wondered, in all the 5th wheels, is why they don't have an option for a desk.
Today, a friend and I went to the Cleveland RV show. She wants to do some traveling with me (and help fund the gas cost!) She was totally unfamiliar with RVs, I wanted to show her the actual size of a class B, and other options. We went into a Vista 23TWS (have to admit, we needed a break from the sun and to sit for a few) and just fell in love with it. I would love to see your review of it, and any others with the twin bed option.
I love this RV, the layout is fabulous. I do like the lighter cabinets mixed with the brown. However, I seriously dislike the living room furniture color and style. It's a really off shade of brown and they are too rigid looking.
I would recommend checking one out in person. It’s crazy how badly the camera can skew colors sometimes
@@JoshtheRVNerd thanks, Josh! Are Bishs all over the country or just in Idaho? What's the general retail price and what size truck would I need to pull it?
@@JoshtheRVNerd ps, Josh, I love your videos! They are straight forward and informative with some goofy humor... 😀
@@lisamcclurg8284 we have about 20ish locations you can see here www.bishs.com/locations -- all over the place. And expanding regularly
Pricing on anything in stock will also be right on that site!
We have a friend who has a n Alliance toy hauler - confirm about the bet post purchase support in the RV world. It made them a client for life - they are NOT going to replace it with anything other than another Alliance. Keystones loss.
How would I use this FW? I'd live in it and mostly be in park mode apart from the occasional move for change of scenery... Decor? Much better than last year. Completely agree about the level of distressing too - its much more subtle.
Ty for sharing your friends’ experience. I see and hear countless stories like that
I’m still liking the farmhouse lighter interiors. I believe I’d use that small cubby in the bedroom for a portable Bose speaker or something similar . The sound bouncing out of cubby would heighten the volume . Great looking RV overall .
Speaker is an interesting idea.. ty
Thanks for all your videos, josh the Nerd.
My pleasure!
Oh my gosh Josh are yoh still in idaho?
I am not. This was about two weeks ago. I put a little post out here on the channel that was I traveling for a bit but with all the content I put out I think sometimes it can be easy to miss
So would an F250 pull this safely or would you need more like an F350 be needed?
Something this size a one ton is more of my general recommendation
Those exposed control panels at knee level in the hallway seems like a miss.
It's at knee-level if standing there, but I've never found issue using them from the kitchen-level. Easy reach
@@JoshtheRVNerd was more worried about bumping or hitting them or kids having easy access.
Like the solar panels, not a fan of the harness's flopping around on the roof.
I’ll have to take a second look. Ty
Ditch the theatre seating...I want reclining love seat in the living room. I love my SO and enjoy cuddling even if I'm an old fart (I turn 60 in 2 weeks). If you don't love to cuddle WTF are you still married?
Edit: I should know to watch all the way through the video...I do love the part-time theatre seating...the lift up/down thingee is awesome...hat's off to the maker of this 5th wheel...most of us normals do like to cuddle with our SO's. thanks for realizing it.
LOL - As I was reading this I was like "I wonder if he'll notice the sofa IS still cuddle compliant!"
I think of you literally every time I see that style of sofa btw. No exaggeration. I'm like "Oh Richard will like this one!"
Loving Alliance! Really wish they would bring some of the interior color options from the Paradigm to the Valor line. Great solar package, although 300 amp hours of battery is not gonna run things for very long. Keep up the sharing is caring Uncle Josh!
Love the exterior of valor though. Man they have a look!!
My husband and I are very interested in the Jayco Northpoint 382FLRB but the front living Paradigm is really catching our attention. We would love to see a comparison video as you’ve done in the past with the Northpoint and Montana.
I'll try to make one happen sometime but my home store doesn't carry alliance and I don't feel I can make that content effectively without being side by side with them
Little odd storage in bedroom is perfect for a safe.
👏👏👏👏for finally viewing/videoing Alliance. My wife said that this one checks all of her boxes, inside, outside, topside & bottomside🙂🙂. We could full time plus travel & do extended stay with family & not use their power. The half bath will be for me at nighttime or other time. The bathroom shower style with water saver should be standard in all fifth wheels & bigger TT’s. Great job come here & I’ll pat you on the back🙂🙂
I got to a couple last year but not as many as I wanted
I will keep an eye out for more as I go
@@JoshtheRVNerd Josh I understand that when you started with Bish’s, you had more locations with more brands & more ground to cover plus it’s you, yourself & you doing all of the videos, you have a much larger round-to-it. Have you seen a round-to-it, how about a wooden nickel?
@@jameskennedy673 Here's the handful I've been able to get to: ruclips.net/p/PLUT5NkY-l88ylRe-Vu1XfKdhf79DWABWc
Should put a guard on the front cap like on the Airstreams to avoid damage. At least as an option..
I’m not a white interior person so this color pallet doesn’t work well for me.
If I owned something,one this I’d have it out on the road though. The only ones I see as park models only are the rear drop frame unit.
What were those unlabeled pull handles underneath? Sewer dump valves?
Apologies- I see too many rvs. I do not recall exactly what those pills did
@@JoshtheRVNerd No sweat. Just unusual that they are down there with no labels.
@@JoshtheRVNerd No sweat. Just unusual that they are down there with no labels.
Hello Josh! Thank you so much for speaking with us last night at the Longview, Texas Bish's location during their Grand Opening. It especially thrilled my wife, and unfortunately she doesn't get very many thrills! Thanks again for your time, humor and honesty. It was very appreciated!
Totally my pleasure! Bobby down there is a good guy
I’m more of a bumper pull guy but damn, that’s impressive.
That one is the cat's patoot!!!
Only one negative is what you said about not being able to put a desk in the door-side slide. Colors are gorgeous!
Cats patoot lol
Beautiful upscale RV with ALL of the quality standard features needed for a perfect experience including a porcelain toilet, a large vent fan, solar, TVs, theater seating and an attached ladder👍👍👍The only downside is those patio eating campside slides☹️
Great video and very nice 5th wheel Josh! I'm especially impressed with the shower & solar on the new Paradigm.
Ty Patty!!
I love your reviews! Please do a GD Reflection 367bhs next!
Will watch for one for sure
Not liking the 1/2 bath but not bad
Ty for watching and sharing!
Enjoyed the Video and this 5th wheel. As Dirty Harry said "a man has got to know his limitations", I have a class B CDL and I wouldnt be comfortable criss crossing the country pulling this behemoth. But if had a nice plot of wildneress property, I could see me getting in and out once a year.
I guess I have been looking at the farmhouse decor for too long. Just not a fan of the wood tones added. Not sure I could get past the direct dump AC's. Been in a whisper quiet system in TX summer and it was very quiet and very cool. Maybe put a small fireproof safe in that pocket. Someplace for full timers to keep important documents or something. Shower in the bathroom is really nice. Thanks Nerd!
Ty Randy
Thanks again NERD!
Likes: floating dinette, ductless ac, 3 acs, fireplace storage, 12v refrigerator 😁, w/d closet, outdoor speakers
Dislikes: I think the wood tones make it look cheap. At this price point and to be comparable to its competitors it definitely needs a convection microwave, entry door window shade, magnetic door holds.
A personal gripe. I want Victron components not Renogy. That is a deal breaker for me.
Travel access to a bathroom is a deal breaker for me, or I should say for the DW, she can’t go more than 2 hours without a stop.
If I wanted a 40’+ RV this would definitely be on my list if they used Victron components. Perhaps an option for an order? Also they need much larger solar controller options. This is maxed out already. Again short sighted designers or just being cheap not sure which. When I just added over 900 watts of solar to my fifth wheel I installed a Victron solar controller that could add several hundred more watts of solar without needing to do anything but add the panels and wire to the combiner box. The wires to the controller and the controller are ready for more power. They should do likewise or at least make it available as an option.
Ty!! I am not well educated on victron be renogy. May I ask what gives you preferences?
@@JoshtheRVNerd Victron has a 5 yr warranty. All Victron components talk to one another. The firmware is easily updated. Many parameters can be set configured for your specific brand of lithium batteries. The Victron color control is outstanding and they have the best battery monitor on the market.
If you ever see the Victron Color Control monitor that shows shore power, ac load, battery state, solar power coming in, what the inverter is doing (hybrid mode, charging batteries, solar charging batteries, etc you will better understand). I have talked to several dealerships and most will recommend Victron over Renogy etc., - if you can afford it. It is more expensive but you get what you pay for. I wish the manufacturer would offer various brands of electronics, as well as sizes of components such as inverter and solar charger. Or use the proper wire size when running wire from the roof to the bay so a DIY person or dealership can install equipment that meets the buyers needs. Currently, most buyers will be paying for equipment they will ultimately dispose of only costing them more in the long run. I could send you a picture of my Victron color control screen if I knew how.
An example of what a properly built system can do. I was camping with my 50amp fifth wheel. Park only had a 20 amp house outlet. I put the proper dongles on my 50 amp cable. Set my Victron inverter to 20 amps. Plugged the rv into shore power. Southwire Surge Guard made sure power was clean. Color control showed 1900 watts of shore power. Both acs came on. Ac load was 2400 watts (also shown on the screen). Inverter instantly pulled power from lithium battery bank, converted to ac to make up the required ac power to run both acs (again shown on the screen). Solar saw the batteries discharging and started charging the batteries (shown on the screen). Again, All of this was on the screen. I didn’t have to do anything. Once the acs cycled off, the inverter and solar recharged the batteries. All of this is on the screen. The lines connecting the devices are like marching ants (similar to Toyota Prius screen) showing the direction of flow between the devices. It is a fantastic system. I don’t know if any other brand that has this capability.
It's too bad they didn't swap the bedroom and bathroom so they could do away with the little half bath. I'm liking the lighter color woodwork. Also could use a camp kitchen in the right rear storage areas.
Sir Josh. I am a prior Toy Hauler owner and the first question I asked was could I access the entire length of the RV while towing. They of course said yes but when picking up I found out no. I made them reverse the sliding glass door so we could actually access the entire RV. Is this something that is done on purpose?I frequently drive alone and my guests and family party in the 5th wheel. I know that many don't consider this safe but id this the reason.?
Apologies without seeing the rv I am not really able to provide any insights
Color is all the same. I would prefer an option of contrast, not all 50 shades of browns, taupe.
50 shades of brown
the sequel we always knew we never wanted.
You must've meant dishwasher ready than washer dryer prepped in the kitchen. Great solar system but I highly doubt anyone that has this rig is not gona be a boondocker. I had to giggle at the "living cavity". Really great storage cavities throughout. 🤣😂🤣
Hahahaha yes :)
I’m really starting to like alliance they seem like a company who’s not all about the profit$$$ rather about giving the best product for the money and one thing we all know is Time will prove out the weak manufacturers as their products fall apart and the better built ones gain reputation. Spending a few bucks more for individual shut offs under the sink then just one main shut off in the belly somewhere, in the off chance you could have a leak nonetheless looking ahead for that day impresses me about alliance , I will tell you this my next purchase will be one of their products because I know the things that I can’t see they’ve gone the extra mile! I think that cubbyhole in the bedroom is a perfect spot to take the pillows off of the bed and stuffed them into it so you don’t have to throw them on the floor or find somewhere else to put them they could all be so be a nice place to have an extra blanket stored or two, i’m glad they include it and leave patrons to figure out what to do with it or not at all but having the option is the best part as it could be used for many things I am really liking paradigm for not assuming . I see so many videos of people who have continuous failures of everything and their fifth wheels that it’s almost a biweekly occurrence doesn’t give a lot of us any peace of mind but I believe there are a few products out there that are building the best products I think alliance is going to prove they are one.
They're really growing on me. Where they captured me was when I joined their facebook group. I would see some owners report various challenges, but I would also see those same people report a positive and timely resolution to their challenges only a day or two later
That kind of quick fulfillment is just not something I'm used to in the RV business and I saw it regularly.
They call it their "Do what's right" warranty policy.
Thanks for the great review. This is just way too big for my wife andI.
Fair! She’s a monster
Promising, however I watch several of the alliance FB pages and I see way to many issues at this time. We are several years away from purchasing our next rig. I will be watching this company very close.
Full candid answer here: I do not feel they have the best front end fit and finish
But I firmly believe they have the best support out there currently
2 thousand pounds of storage that is a huge fail...
This trailer is reaaly nice, but too heavy for me.
What are the nicest "couple's"
trailers that could be towed by a 2023 Tundra?
Maybe start with a few of these m.ruclips.net/video/GNMaF0r71KU/видео.html
Since I wouldn't want to have to maneuver something this big around a parking lot too often, I think access to the half bath for the emergency potty stop and access to the fridge for the Kroger stop right before rolling in to the camp site might be enough. Husband can nap in the tow vehicle if he really needs to.
This is probably just my personal taste but I found the mix of wood tones and farm house in the bedroom/bathroom area rather jarring and cheap-looking. It could have been the lighting though and I may not mind it if I saw it in person.
Really would like to see a front living room that is sideways, I dont need that much seating, and frankly the tiny love seat theatre is horrid. Would like to see the entertainment center rotated 90 degrees giving a larger Boardwalk and Park place seating, rather than the loveseat step combo.
Sure the symmetry is messed up, but it would be like a living room at the back of the 5th wheel like all the others.
Also any chance of putting small marks where the aluminum frame is located so pictures can be hung? Asking for wife because she wants it homiefied