THAT is exactly what I need for my family. My teenage son and daughter are dead set that they need a bunk house room instead of just bunks now. I REALLY wish my Toyota Tundra would haul this because I do not want to get rid of it, but if I go to a 5th wheel I'm sure I'll have to get a 2500 truck to be safe. THANKS for the video
I own this trailer. It has a few fit and finish issues but i love this trailer. I put motion sensor lights in the outdoor kitchen and the storage behind it. Changed the fridge doors to open from the fridge and sink side. It does have counter space issues but i dont use the stove so the cutting board is makeshift counter space. I love the bathroom and shower and the bigger beds in the bunkhouse. I am also pretty sure i am going to change out the blue lights under the awning to white but i cant stress enough how much i love this trailer. I also installed a small shelf under the bedroom tv mount for a dvd player
Also, I would almost always option in the 2nd panel if I were you. The standard battery is 100Ah, but lead acid batteries shouldn't be discharged more than 50%. So, for all intents and purposes you have 50Ah of usable battery. When it comes to solar, you want 2x the wattage of your battery bank amp hours to be able to charge the batteries fully within a normal day of sunshine (5-6 hours). So 100w should be able to efficiently get a drained battery (drained to 50%) back to full capacity in a day.
These shorter fifth wheel are good for people who never towed before Easier for them to back up. I like fireplace in this 1 definitely always want 2 ND A.C. 2 always betting then 1
This Arctic Kitty truly does have “all the right ‘stuff’ in all the right places”. 👍🏻 Everything sized consistently considering the overall length. The aerodynamic nose is a nice touch. Solar-wise I’d prefer 100 watt panel(s) up top with a plug for external solar panels too. I’m a little disappointed there is no OTG system but I guess that’s to keep the price point down. I personally would make use of the bunk room for an office space.
I like it. What I would do is put an folding extension for the counter on the right side. Depending how close the drawers are to the wall, I would attached to the wall and have it fold out. Another 12 inches of counter space would help. and it wouldn't impede the door to the bunkroom. Nice layout.
I think this is gonna be the one for our family when we move forward. Love your thorough videos. We are trying to wait out the RV market madness, but it seems it just goes on and on. The 2nd air is being recommended as a must on these by other owners we have spoken with. Really bummed about that rear ladder though. Hope its not too much trouble to add one at purchase. If the 100 watt panel isn't too crazy expensive, that would be our preference to have with that fridge for sure. Thanks again for doing all these videos!
I recommend opting for the heavier axles and 16” tires. We had our eyes on one of these and the Mesa Ridge 264RLS won out mainly because of the heavy axles and 16” tires.
Wish y’all were local to me. I am so close to pulling the trigger on this exact model. All the checks are there for me as a first time buyer and this model is just so visually appealing for a family of 4 and 2 dogs.
As for options and upgrades, here's my two cents. I've owned a few trailers now and I used to be of the opinion that I would/could do the upgrades later and save the money on the factory / dealer upgrade. However, I don't think I'm that different than most people when I say that my life with work, kids, sports, and camping, is super busy. Also, when I drop my trailer off for service and installs, I don't see it again for months. I'm now of the opinion that any upgrade I'm going to want, I want it on the trailer when I buy it. Otherwise it's not going to get done. This is even more true with solar and lithium batteries as I don't want to mess with that stuff and I'm never going to get around to having someone else install it either.
Super sweet trailer I would love to have a windshield and a ladder Plus I would love to use it for boondocks and that would mean I would want a solar package that would be able to run an inverter that would power the microwave and have a second battery The dog dish sink in the outside kitchen really should have been a plumbed sink
What I like about Arctic Wolf, and the Alpha Wolf too, is that they are Luxury equipped at affordable prices. When we purchased we compared Keystone to Cherokee, and the higher priced Keystones were no better built, with same material, and in some cases, poorly built compared to the Wolf. We compared the Montana to the Arctic Wolf, and while the Montana had a few nice features, such as a sliding tray in the rear, and upgraded suspension, the part most important to me is the living space, and the lower priced Arctic Wolf had the same overall interior material wise from cabinets to furniture. To top it off it also weighs a lot less, by at least 3,000 pounds, which means single rear wheel and not needing a dually. For around $500, my Arctic Wolf has the same upgraded suspension too. The slide awning prep is great as well, one of the first things I added when I got it As for the LED lighting, after using them a few times, they are TOO blue! Would be nice if they had used multicolor lights that could be changed with a button push. Ford used to have lighting like that and went to the same blue only in their cars and trucks. Same for exterior awning light, be able to select different colors, just to mix things up. Glad to see Cherokee went away from Furrion for their 12v reefer, ours lasted all of 2 months and they replaced it with the same one in this model and it works exceptionally well and uses less power from the battery to boot.
I know this is an older video to comment on, but I would like to see a slightly different design next to the sink to give you some extra counter space.
Great review as always! I love almost everything! I was hoping the 2022 model would finally have a nice wet-bay (like the Grand Design Nautilus system) and it really should still have a rear ladder!
We purchased this model last year and I noticed something in this video that was an issue on ours. Look at the support under the bed when the bed is lifted up. There is 0 support under your torso. The brace down by the lift is around the knee to calf area and the support just forward of the hinged joint is at the neck area. The plywood sagged BADLY after one trip for us. It need a cross brace on the hinged section either right at the hinges, 1/3 of the way to the support brace that is already there, or both. Major oversight. My wife asked why it was not an issue on our order camper....the hinge was further down from the head of the bed because the non moving part was framed for storage (it was a travel trailer). The hing being 8-12 inches further down made a ton of difference in the support system under the bed.
We have this exact camper, but the 2021 model and we love it! The main thing we wish it had come with was the 2nd A/C unit. July 4th weekend we were camping and the outside temp was around 98 degrees. That one A/C unit wasn't keeping up. Other than that, we really recommend this unit for all the reasons Josh pointed out. Tons of storage, budget friendly, and just a well thought out unit! Great video Josh!
@@JoshtheRVNerd a cargo rack is okay for cargo. A bike rack is more secure and less chance of damaging an expensive bike. Adding a hitch will probably void the frame warranty. A two inch receiver on fifth wheels is pretty much industry standard. You can always mount a cargo rack to a receiver. Not having it takes away from the versatility of the trailer.
I really like that unit. Though I do agree with you on the carpet and the disco lights, I swear someone has been watching too much Scooby doo! I would personally want way more solar.
Josh, I love all your videos. Please tell me the model numbers of any front bunkhouse 5th wheels. My wife uses a wheelchair, and we need the main bedroom and bathroom on the main level the smaller 5th wheels are best for our driveway. Thanks for all you do, Robert
Man.. those used to be somewhat common but have become so rare I cannot think of any offhand. I know there's one or two out there but I'm not even sure who makes them anymore. Apologies This industry is strange like that sometimes where there's an extreme level of homogenization. BUT... wondering how something like this might work: ruclips.net/video/XJK_leZ1pKM/видео.html There's a handful of things & variant versions of the layout in that link
The accent lights: here's an idea, get a color changing remote. That way the customer can change it depending on mood or atmosphere. The only thing I would like to see added is tinted windows, that way I can choose between looking out the window or blotting out the sun. Wow!!! minute 13:58. The first look on the outside, the decal on the gooseneck looks like an open baggage door.
Rhino pin box is used I am not quite following your hitching question Every truck, trailer, and hitch combo is like a fingerprint- they’re all a little different. Slider hitches aren’t known to LOSE clearance
@@JoshtheRVNerd I was concerned as far as how angle of radius would be like at least to 80 degrees. I saw on another video some of the smaller open range 5th wheel would do tight turns on shortbed trucks with standard hitch setup with plenty of clearance from smashing rear window
I have the 2022 Artic Wolf 287BH. Your video say it's 34' 10", the dealer says it's 28' and my paperwork says it's 30'. How do I find out what the actual length is? It's identical to the one on this video.
I get my specs directly from the MFG's website when the video is posted. Here's the most current info: forestriverinc.com/rvs/fifth-wheels/arctic-wolf/287bh/4818 Apparently it's somehow grown another couple of inches. I actively advise people to remember that model number IS NOT necessarily the length of the RV.
Ok do not crucify me for this but let me ask a real life question… how do you deploy and exit the camper or enter it if you are sleeping at a truck stop like loves, pilot, flying j etc? Everyone packs like sardines and truckers back in. Is there a way to basically either remove the entrance stairs entirely or deploy them in limited capacity so you can actually get in or out? I just came from a 3 month boondocking trip to moab and colorado and getting there and back 2200 miles each way i was overnighting in class c so had enough room to open door. Does this ladder open within footprint of the door swing or it sticks waaay out?
Not sure why anyone would attack you for such a reasonable question. I’m glad you’re here and asked! It should be noted that not every RV is fit for every purpose. That’s why I take the extra time to do things like close the slides and show them in road mode The steps have pins at the hinges that can be removed if there’s not enough room to swing them down. A little step stool could possibly be used to get in and out as needed
Josh, you mentioned installing the second ac in the main bedroom. I have looked and looked and can’t find any information on how this would be installed. There’s no vent so would a hole have to be cut into the roof. Who could do this as an after market install? Would you recommend? Do you have or can you point me to where I would find more information? I’ve tried ForestRiver but haven’t had much success. BTW, your videos are awesome, great information and fun to watch. You’re very entertaining!
The framework and wiring is run to the bedroom. The facility will need to cut the hole for the A/C unit. Stuff like this I always recommend back to our parts and service teams
Not from the factory but maybe. You just need to make sure there's not anything under that bunk (like wires or plumbing) that may prevent a sofa from being placed there
I need to double check but I think we might be able to special request a theater. It’s not a normal option on these. It also depends on the exact size of the sofa. There may not be enough room to squeeze a potentially slightly larger theater seat into that space
MY 2022 has 2 solar panels, Do I need more? My dealer was not very informative when I purchased mine. I've gotten more information from your videos, Thank you.
Really like this one. I'd change out those zebra shades tho, I find them disturbing, just not my aesthetic. I'd add a small flip up ledge beside the sink for a drying mat/dish drainer. (the only time it wouldn't be up is when the slide was in, can't pull out drawers anyway) The fake live edge on the table is not my thing either, aesthetically. But then I realized it's probably more comfortable when resting your forearms on the edge. That little ledge where you put your phone is a good idea if it has a lip or a divot to keep it from slipping off. Really like the bedroom side stands (light, radius edges) But the lights on the headboard area are awkwardly placed. I'd put them up closer to the corners so that when I'm reading in bed the pillow I'm leaning against doesn't cover one. I agree about needing a grease shield on the wall areas around the stove top. I would definitely have to add something there, even mactac until I could do something more durable. Just minor stuff. Overall I like the layout & massive storage in all the right places. ❤️✌️😃🇨🇦
They don’t weather test these so I don’t have any sort of specific temps I can offer as it turns out But it’s going to have to stay below freezing pretty hard to be an issue
@@BetaRacer24 The original brand manager for the brand was a little prone to over promising and under delivering like that They also used to advertise something like an "All weather any weather" package or something like that which was completely unfounded The new brand manager is far more realistic about what they are and what they aren't thankfully
With Dual 15k airs and their PVC roof it seems like it would do the trick. I don't have personal experience camping there so I can only theorize and would encourage you to investigate locally
Josh could your company do videos on loaded hitch weight of the fifth wheels. I tend to fill my fresh water and propane tanks to the top and travel to boon-docking places as so do others I believe watch your page and I’d think it help.
I’m sorry but I don’t really know what we would include in a video like that. Only way to know really is to go get it scaled. There’s no way we can predict how any two people are going to load cargo and holding tanks
I have a 2004 Ram 2500 diesel and trying to stay within my payload. After all the bodies and stuff is in the truck, we have about 1,750lbs of payload left. Would that be enough for this fifth wheel?
Empty you’re in spec But loaded may put you over.. I’m estimating just over 1800lbs loaded hitch weight Plus the weight of the hitch.. man.. it’s close but I think you’d just be in the red. Most guys would just say “yes” and take your money but I put family safety first and am not sure the numbers work
@@JoshtheRVNerd thank you for the honest response! I’m just trying to do my best to make sure to stay within range. Do you have a good estimated percentage that I should be when calculating hitch weight? Would it be 15% of the GVWR of the trailer?
@@JoshtheRVNerd also, the 2024 model says its GVWR is only about 10,400lbs. Any idea why the cargo capacity would have been decreased? I mean that of course helps my payload restrictions but just curious
The Arctics with bed slides are kings standard 72 x 80 Here’s a sample m.ruclips.net/video/c5cX9F2YQFk/видео.html And another m.ruclips.net/video/OhOW839m3OQ/видео.html And yet another (I love this one) m.ruclips.net/video/6vxzN8zB8Do/видео.html&pp=sAQA
Like everything on the inside except no recliners, like the exterior, need second AC & more Solar panels. You were talking about the bathrooms commode space, it is beneficial for no fluffy people who has knees that don’t like they did thirty years ago. LOL👍👍👍👍
Love this unit. Interested in talking to someone at Haylett's about it and how a trade in from out of state would work. Would like to get an estimate for our trade but we live in MD and don't want to have to drive it out there. Is it possible to get a "ballpark" estimate on our unit without having to drive it out there? Obviously, it wouldn't be a final number without actually seeing it, but it is possible to get close? THanks for the great content.
What bugs me it the low watt solar I have 1500 watts on my camper but it took modification to get solar I would 😘 ve to see them built with a full roof solar mounts to add your own panels
@@JoshtheRVNerd NEW 2023 FOREST RIVER RV CHEROKEE BLACK LABEL 265GDKBL If you ever get that in would love your opinion on it my wife loves it it's a sweet layout but If I am buying new I want nothing less the 36 feet
There’s no real way to offer a blanket statement like this one’s half ton towable versus that one due to the fact that half ton pick ups can vary so greatly in their capacity. A properly equipped half ton could theoretically pull this trailer. But those are far more few and far between and the common every day half ton most people have
I don't like it when they put a foldout sofa in a bunk model. Yes a larger solar package is a must, at least 150w. Also, those zebra blinds are hideous! However, overall a great design with just a few modifications.
All RVs should have a porcelain toilet and a ladder, and that outside sink should not be called a sink if it doesn’t have a drain. Also, boon-docking for several days without several hundred watts of solar is very difficult with a 12 volt compressor fridge unless you also have a generator to charge the batteries and possibly use an AC unit occasionally on a hot day.
Looks great but wish they could cut off the bunk portion and get rid of all of the outside kitchen except the ice maker and leave the rest of that pocket wide open for extra storage and create a mini couples 5th wheel.
That would be very much like this one I think m.ruclips.net/video/P03CTS2AvC0/видео.html&pp=sAQA (Forgot the camp kitchen when I linked this, but there’s room)
Spoke with our service team - Sounds like ADCO's "All Weather" variety is still our go-to They could actually assist you with getting one ordered and shipped directly to you at 800-256-5196
I will say, looking at these bunkhouse models, and having a toddler, I actually prefer at least one of the bunk houses having a window that doesn't open.
It’s possible but the RV would have to extend to make room for everything without conflicting with the door Kitchens often suffer when reduced to fit into a slide as well
When you mentioned that you were born in the 80’s i was feeling kinda old for a moment .Then i thought at least i was born in the last month of 1960 and ... well that didn’t help.
lol - no not on purpose. You're the first to mention it. THANK YOU by the way. Just a symptom of me working alone and going way too fast trying to keep up
Some people do. It's not necessarily built with that intention. You also need to keep in mind the weather patterns in your area if stationary as even the best insulated RVs aren't rated to handle some of our country's more extreme cold weathers
If you're spending 10s of ks on an RV, why you wouldn't spend another 200 bucks to double your solar is beyond me. So yeah, when I get my RV I'll be maximizing my solar.
If I have a 2900+ payload rating, is it still 3/4 ton ( f250 ) towable once it is filled with gear, water propane tcc? I have heard from people tell me I will need a 1 ton (f350).
@@JoshtheRVNerd Sweet. People are saying I am way over weight once I load the camper and truck. Because the pin weight would go up to 2000-2200lbs if fully loaded
![Digital Circus Episode 4 [TRAILER]](http://i.ytimg.com/vi/abZtsmMUbJo/mqdefault.jpg)
That is my favorite bunkhouse! I have adult children and older grandkids and everyone could have their own space in a smaller camper.
Josh hope you get to take a vacation soon cause your working super hard man. Love the passion you have in campers and camping.
Think this falls into "strike while the iron is hot".
We have started getting a steady run of 2022’s in so not likely taking time off soon
I love this family of RV's, just something about them. Thank you. Always got to have a party pooper. (to be nice)
THAT is exactly what I need for my family. My teenage son and daughter are dead set that they need a bunk house room instead of just bunks now. I REALLY wish my Toyota Tundra would haul this because I do not want to get rid of it, but if I go to a 5th wheel I'm sure I'll have to get a 2500 truck to be safe.
THANKS for the video
With that 12 volt compressor refrigerator, more solar is better!
I own this trailer. It has a few fit and finish issues but i love this trailer. I put motion sensor lights in the outdoor kitchen and the storage behind it. Changed the fridge doors to open from the fridge and sink side. It does have counter space issues but i dont use the stove so the cutting board is makeshift counter space. I love the bathroom and shower and the bigger beds in the bunkhouse. I am also pretty sure i am going to change out the blue lights under the awning to white but i cant stress enough how much i love this trailer. I also installed a small shelf under the bedroom tv mount for a dvd player
Also, I would almost always option in the 2nd panel if I were you. The standard battery is 100Ah, but lead acid batteries shouldn't be discharged more than 50%. So, for all intents and purposes you have 50Ah of usable battery. When it comes to solar, you want 2x the wattage of your battery bank amp hours to be able to charge the batteries fully within a normal day of sunshine (5-6 hours). So 100w should be able to efficiently get a drained battery (drained to 50%) back to full capacity in a day.
I am not opposed to it and interested to see how customer orders and more feedback go
These shorter fifth wheel are good for people who never towed before Easier for them to back up. I like fireplace in this 1 definitely always want 2 ND A.C. 2 always betting then 1
👍
Absolutely love the zebra blinds in my parent’s 23mk.
Do you? I hate them. Don't block out nearly enough light. To each their own for sure.
This Arctic Kitty truly does have “all the right ‘stuff’ in all the right places”. 👍🏻 Everything sized consistently considering the overall length. The aerodynamic nose is a nice touch. Solar-wise I’d prefer 100 watt panel(s) up top with a plug for external solar panels too. I’m a little disappointed there is no OTG system but I guess that’s to keep the price point down. I personally would make use of the bunk room for an office space.
I like it. What I would do is put an folding extension for the counter on the right side. Depending how close the drawers are to the wall, I would attached to the wall and have it fold out. Another 12 inches of counter space would help. and it wouldn't impede the door to the bunkroom. Nice layout.
Love and agree with the extension idea
You sold me on the TANK ENCLOSURE! 😂
I love this floor plan just bought one. Havent used it yet. Gonna love it
Needs more counter top space for food prep. Perhaps a counter top extension.
Yeah I think a flip up extension is a good fit here
Great video! Thank you so much for showing slide in and opening cabinets and drawers!
You bet!
I think this is gonna be the one for our family when we move forward. Love your thorough videos. We are trying to wait out the RV market madness, but it seems it just goes on and on. The 2nd air is being recommended as a must on these by other owners we have spoken with. Really bummed about that rear ladder though. Hope its not too much trouble to add one at purchase. If the 100 watt panel isn't too crazy expensive, that would be our preference to have with that fridge for sure. Thanks again for doing all these videos!
I recommend opting for the heavier axles and 16” tires. We had our eyes on one of these and the Mesa Ridge 264RLS won out mainly because of the heavy axles and 16” tires.
I like the blue light for the slide as a night light. However, I don’t like when Cherokee has blue as the only option for an outside light.
Right!!!!
Wish y’all were local to me. I am so close to pulling the trigger on this exact model. All the checks are there for me as a first time buyer and this model is just so visually appealing for a family of 4 and 2 dogs.
We just bought one of these a month ago and we love it everything about it the storage the bunk room the outside kitchen plenty of room
TY for watching, Dan! Glad she's treating you well :)
One of the finalists for my next camper.
This is the Fifth wheel I want!!! nice video!
TY!
As for options and upgrades, here's my two cents. I've owned a few trailers now and I used to be of the opinion that I would/could do the upgrades later and save the money on the factory / dealer upgrade. However, I don't think I'm that different than most people when I say that my life with work, kids, sports, and camping, is super busy. Also, when I drop my trailer off for service and installs, I don't see it again for months. I'm now of the opinion that any upgrade I'm going to want, I want it on the trailer when I buy it. Otherwise it's not going to get done. This is even more true with solar and lithium batteries as I don't want to mess with that stuff and I'm never going to get around to having someone else install it either.
Solid perspective. Thank you for sharing
Purchasing this model this week this video and comments was very helpful 👍🏻 thank you
Would it be out of the question to ask you to drop me a quick review at g.page/r/CdPcitNVx2nDEAg/review in return for the helping hand??
I really like the bathroom and bedroom. I hate zebra blinds so much it looks cheap and it’s dizzying.
I've never camped with them, but I kind of like the way they look. Maybe if I had to look at them everyday while camping I'd change my mind.
I agree 1000% about the zebra blinds and coupled with the blue mood lighting.
Super sweet trailer
I would love to have a windshield and a ladder
Plus I would love to use it for boondocks and that would mean I would want a solar package that would be able to run an inverter that would power the microwave and have a second battery
The dog dish sink in the outside kitchen really should have been a plumbed sink
What I like about Arctic Wolf, and the Alpha Wolf too, is that they are Luxury equipped at affordable prices. When we purchased we compared Keystone to Cherokee, and the higher priced Keystones were no better built, with same material, and in some cases, poorly built compared to the Wolf. We compared the Montana to the Arctic Wolf, and while the Montana had a few nice features, such as a sliding tray in the rear, and upgraded suspension, the part most important to me is the living space, and the lower priced Arctic Wolf had the same overall interior material wise from cabinets to furniture. To top it off it also weighs a lot less, by at least 3,000 pounds, which means single rear wheel and not needing a dually. For around $500, my Arctic Wolf has the same upgraded suspension too. The slide awning prep is great as well, one of the first things I added when I got it
As for the LED lighting, after using them a few times, they are TOO blue! Would be nice if they had used multicolor lights that could be changed with a button push. Ford used to have lighting like that and went to the same blue only in their cars and trucks. Same for exterior awning light, be able to select different colors, just to mix things up. Glad to see Cherokee went away from Furrion for their 12v reefer, ours lasted all of 2 months and they replaced it with the same one in this model and it works exceptionally well and uses less power from the battery to boot.
Simple where it should be and fancy where it could be.
Keep the dad jokes comin’ 🤣🤣🤣 love it
Glad you like them.. because frankly it’s all I got
I know this is an older video to comment on, but I would like to see a slightly different design next to the sink to give you some extra counter space.
Very good video on this rig we will be calling and see if in stock
We have multiple locations btw so may have at one and not another
Great review as always! I love almost everything! I was hoping the 2022 model would finally have a nice wet-bay (like the Grand Design Nautilus system) and it really should still have a rear ladder!
I'm still kind of shocked they removed even the ladder prep from the walls. That seems like a miss to me
Yes this is a great unit if the truck to be safe..👍 as always you bring out all the key points Josh.
Thanks 👍
👍
Still but a. Telescopic ladder will work
We purchased this model last year and I noticed something in this video that was an issue on ours. Look at the support under the bed when the bed is lifted up. There is 0 support under your torso. The brace down by the lift is around the knee to calf area and the support just forward of the hinged joint is at the neck area. The plywood sagged BADLY after one trip for us. It need a cross brace on the hinged section either right at the hinges, 1/3 of the way to the support brace that is already there, or both. Major oversight.
My wife asked why it was not an issue on our order camper....the hinge was further down from the head of the bed because the non moving part was framed for storage (it was a travel trailer). The hing being 8-12 inches further down made a ton of difference in the support system under the bed.
Ty for the input. It’s something Jay flights used to struggle with as well
I will keep an ear out for more occurrence and report to the factory
What are you towing with?
@@tm3471 2018 F250 6.7L Diesel.
I would seriously look into adding several more solar panels as well as 2 or 3 more batteries, for full boondocking as well as a generator.
That’s one of the great points of an Arctic - save on the front tag and use the cash to build your own off grid package
I love this one!
She checks the boxes! Thx for watchign :)
It's been a Great 5th wheel
Glad it’s treated you well
Just a thought. Cut out the bottom on the dump sink on outdoor kitchen to allow a can liner to roll around the edges and be inserted back in its slot.
This could alleviate the need to get a trash can that would need to be stored elsewhere while traveling.
Rgb lights are back in style man!.
Keep it up and Logitech is going to start designing RV lighting kits lol
@@JoshtheRVNerd lmaoooo
We have this exact camper, but the 2021 model and we love it! The main thing we wish it had come with was the 2nd A/C unit. July 4th weekend we were camping and the outside temp was around 98 degrees. That one A/C unit wasn't keeping up. Other than that, we really recommend this unit for all the reasons Josh pointed out. Tons of storage, budget friendly, and just a well thought out unit! Great video Josh!
Thanks for sharing!
I like the blue lights, due to it not as bright at night.
I plan on boondocking a lot, I would want the max solar.
A 2” receiver is needed to mount a bike rack. Otherwise it’s a pretty nice fifth wheel. The bunk room is great!
I would just strap bikes to the cargo rack personally
I have seen some people add a hitch below the cargo rack too
@@JoshtheRVNerd a cargo rack is okay for cargo. A bike rack is more secure and less chance of damaging an expensive bike. Adding a hitch will probably void the frame warranty. A two inch receiver on fifth wheels is pretty much industry standard. You can always mount a cargo rack to a receiver. Not having it takes away from the versatility of the trailer.
I really like that unit. Though I do agree with you on the carpet and the disco lights, I swear someone has been watching too much Scooby doo! I would personally want way more solar.
Josh, I love all your videos. Please tell me the model numbers of any front bunkhouse 5th wheels.
My wife uses a wheelchair, and we need the main bedroom and bathroom on the main level the smaller 5th wheels are best for our driveway.
Thanks for all you do,
Robert
Man.. those used to be somewhat common but have become so rare I cannot think of any offhand. I know there's one or two out there but I'm not even sure who makes them anymore. Apologies
This industry is strange like that sometimes where there's an extreme level of homogenization.
BUT... wondering how something like this might work: ruclips.net/video/XJK_leZ1pKM/видео.html
There's a handful of things & variant versions of the layout in that link
Is it normal for these to have lots of condensation from the bottom pan after using the heater I have the exact same trailer
Sorry - the bottom pan?
1000w watt is desired for boondocking. At the minimum.
The accent lights: here's an idea, get a color changing remote. That way the customer can change it depending on mood or atmosphere. The only thing I would like to see added is tinted windows, that way I can choose between looking out the window or blotting out the sun.
Wow!!! minute 13:58. The first look on the outside, the decal on the gooseneck looks like an open baggage door.
I have had the same idea on the multicolor lights over slides
It guess what Carol Baskin?
They’re in shortage right now
green
Josh what pin box is on this unit? And would the front cap give more clearance if not used with slider hitch?
Rhino pin box is used
I am not quite following your hitching question
Every truck, trailer, and hitch combo is like a fingerprint- they’re all a little different.
Slider hitches aren’t known to LOSE clearance
@@JoshtheRVNerd I was concerned as far as how angle of radius would be like at least to 80 degrees. I saw on another video some of the smaller open range 5th wheel would do tight turns on shortbed trucks with standard hitch setup with plenty of clearance from smashing rear window
I have the 2022 Artic Wolf 287BH. Your video say it's 34' 10", the dealer says it's 28' and my paperwork says it's 30'. How do I find out what the actual length is? It's identical to the one on this video.
I get my specs directly from the MFG's website when the video is posted. Here's the most current info: forestriverinc.com/rvs/fifth-wheels/arctic-wolf/287bh/4818
Apparently it's somehow grown another couple of inches.
I actively advise people to remember that model number IS NOT necessarily the length of the RV.
If I could get it I would go for something in the range of 300w of solar. As for the accent lights, why not have a RGB controller?
Maybe one of the grabber tools should be included for the tall storage. For me, no blue lights, maybe dimmers?
Ok do not crucify me for this but let me ask a real life question… how do you deploy and exit the camper or enter it if you are sleeping at a truck stop like loves, pilot, flying j etc? Everyone packs like sardines and truckers back in. Is there a way to basically either remove the entrance stairs entirely or deploy them in limited capacity so you can actually get in or out? I just came from a 3 month boondocking trip to moab and colorado and getting there and back 2200 miles each way i was overnighting in class c so had enough room to open door. Does this ladder open within footprint of the door swing or it sticks waaay out?
Not sure why anyone would attack you for such a reasonable question. I’m glad you’re here and asked!
It should be noted that not every RV is fit for every purpose. That’s why I take the extra time to do things like close the slides and show them in road mode
The steps have pins at the hinges that can be removed if there’s not enough room to swing them down. A little step stool could possibly be used to get in and out as needed
I think those dinette table poles should be changed out to a eucalyptic type, and it could be handy for extra prep space for the kitchen.
Anywhere to put a washer & dryer?
Not in this one as it turns out
Josh, you mentioned installing the second ac in the main bedroom. I have looked and looked and can’t find any information on how this would be installed. There’s no vent so would a hole have to be cut into the roof. Who could do this as an after market install? Would you recommend? Do you have or can you point me to where I would find more information? I’ve tried ForestRiver but haven’t had much success. BTW, your videos are awesome, great information and fun to watch. You’re very entertaining!
The framework and wiring is run to the bedroom. The facility will need to cut the hole for the A/C unit. Stuff like this I always recommend back to our parts and service teams
This for the price is my favorite. Josh, can the bottom bunk be removed? I would love to have a sofa that folds out
Not from the factory but maybe. You just need to make sure there's not anything under that bunk (like wires or plumbing) that may prevent a sofa from being placed there
Theater seating option or just the sofa?
I need to double check but I think we might be able to special request a theater. It’s not a normal option on these. It also depends on the exact size of the sofa. There may not be enough room to squeeze a potentially slightly larger theater seat into that space
MY 2022 has 2 solar panels, Do I need more? My dealer was not very informative when I purchased mine. I've gotten more information from your videos, Thank you.
Sorry Nelson but without any idea of how you use your RV I'm simply unable to offer you an answer.
Really like this one. I'd change out those zebra shades tho, I find them disturbing, just not my aesthetic.
I'd add a small flip up ledge beside the sink for a drying mat/dish drainer. (the only time it wouldn't be up is when the slide was in, can't pull out drawers anyway)
The fake live edge on the table is not my thing either, aesthetically. But then I realized it's probably more comfortable when resting your forearms on the edge.
That little ledge where you put your phone is a good idea if it has a lip or a divot to keep it from slipping off.
Really like the bedroom side stands (light, radius edges) But the lights on the headboard area are awkwardly placed. I'd put them up closer to the corners so that when I'm reading in bed the pillow I'm leaning against doesn't cover one.
I agree about needing a grease shield on the wall areas around the stove top. I would definitely have to add something there, even mactac until I could do something more durable.
Just minor stuff. Overall I like the layout & massive storage in all the right places. ❤️✌️😃🇨🇦
Ty for all the input :)
So if i doesnt have floor vents? How is it cold weather ready? With no heat going to the underbelly
They don’t weather test these so I don’t have any sort of specific temps I can offer as it turns out
But it’s going to have to stay below freezing pretty hard to be an issue
@@JoshtheRVNerd so its “arctic wolf”, but not cold weather ready… what a name choice.
@@BetaRacer24 The original brand manager for the brand was a little prone to over promising and under delivering like that
They also used to advertise something like an "All weather any weather" package or something like that which was completely unfounded
The new brand manager is far more realistic about what they are and what they aren't thankfully
Would this be good for full-time living in a park in Texas?
With Dual 15k airs and their PVC roof it seems like it would do the trick. I don't have personal experience camping there so I can only theorize and would encourage you to investigate locally
Hey Josh, what are the black panels at the lower front part of the living room?
Sorry - can you provide a minute marker to reference please?
I think he is referring to 1:27. The left panel is the furnace intake, the right panel is the breaker/fuse panel.
Josh could your company do videos on loaded hitch weight of the fifth wheels. I tend to fill my fresh water and propane tanks to the top and travel to boon-docking places as so do others I believe watch your page and I’d think it help.
I’m sorry but I don’t really know what we would include in a video like that. Only way to know really is to go get it scaled. There’s no way we can predict how any two people are going to load cargo and holding tanks
When should the battery be disconnected?
Any time you're not using it or towing it
A couple Battleborn batteries and 400w of solar... woohoo!
And this'd be a great couples trailer, just convert the bunk beds to storage.
We can make all that happen when you're ready too :)
I have a 2004 Ram 2500 diesel and trying to stay within my payload. After all the bodies and stuff is in the truck, we have about 1,750lbs of payload left. Would that be enough for this fifth wheel?
Empty you’re in spec
But loaded may put you over.. I’m estimating just over 1800lbs loaded hitch weight
Plus the weight of the hitch.. man.. it’s close but I think you’d just be in the red.
Most guys would just say “yes” and take your money but I put family safety first and am not sure the numbers work
@@JoshtheRVNerd thank you for the honest response! I’m just trying to do my best to make sure to stay within range. Do you have a good estimated percentage that I should be when calculating hitch weight? Would it be 15% of the GVWR of the trailer?
@@JoshtheRVNerd also, the 2024 model says its GVWR is only about 10,400lbs. Any idea why the cargo capacity would have been decreased? I mean that of course helps my payload restrictions but just curious
Do any of the Article Wolf's come with a King bed preferably not a bunk and 3/4ton diesel 2020 Silverado towable?
The Arctics with bed slides are kings standard
72 x 80
Here’s a sample
m.ruclips.net/video/c5cX9F2YQFk/видео.html
And another
m.ruclips.net/video/OhOW839m3OQ/видео.html
And yet another (I love this one)
m.ruclips.net/video/6vxzN8zB8Do/видео.html&pp=sAQA
Like everything on the inside except no recliners, like the exterior, need second AC & more Solar panels. You were talking about the bathrooms commode space, it is beneficial for no fluffy people who has knees that don’t like they did thirty years ago. LOL👍👍👍👍
Love this unit. Interested in talking to someone at Haylett's about it and how a trade in from out of state would work. Would like to get an estimate for our trade but we live in MD and don't want to have to drive it out there. Is it possible to get a "ballpark" estimate on our unit without having to drive it out there? Obviously, it wouldn't be a final number without actually seeing it, but it is possible to get close? THanks for the great content.
Our sales team can assist you with all that. At least half our business is from out of state so this is all pretty rank and file for us
@@JoshtheRVNerd Thanks for the response. I reached out and hoping to hear back soon.
How does this have one view with one thumbs down?? Sounds like your competition is salty 🧂🧂🧂
¯\_(ツ)_/¯
I'd opted for 400w solar and be off grid totally imo
That would need to be aftermarket on these but it could definitely be done
Could I purchase this model in TX?
They are on wheels. We could certainly send one from one of our locations to wherever you’d like. Texas included
I’d never use the blue light. If it where red, I might leave it on as a night light.
I suspect that's a ~$20 change you could make yourself.
@@DJStig sure, I just don’t understand why blue seems like a common choice if RV manufactures.
I don’t get the obsession with it either
Could a kid sleep on the dinette sleeper while the slide is closed ? That why Cracker Barrel overnights would work out ?
Not recommended I’m afraid
What bugs me it the low watt solar I have 1500 watts on my camper but it took modification to get solar I would 😘 ve to see them built with a full roof solar mounts to add your own panels
They’re 100w now with a controller and wiring that can scale up to 400w pretty easily all plug and play
@@JoshtheRVNerd NEW 2023 FOREST RIVER RV CHEROKEE BLACK LABEL 265GDKBL
If you ever get that in would love your opinion on it my wife loves it it's a sweet layout but If I am buying new I want nothing less the 36 feet
Do they make a 1/2 ton towable fifth wheel?
There’s no real way to offer a blanket statement like this one’s half ton towable versus that one due to the fact that half ton pick ups can vary so greatly in their capacity. A properly equipped half ton could theoretically pull this trailer. But those are far more few and far between and the common every day half ton most people have
It looks like entry level 5th wheels are more comparable to mid-range travel trailers after almost all of them became vacuum laminated.
Absolutely
I don't like it when they put a foldout sofa in a bunk model.
Yes a larger solar package is a must, at least 150w.
Also, those zebra blinds are hideous!
However, overall a great design with just a few modifications.
Ty
Red lights… Just because.
That could be an entire district.
All RVs should have a porcelain toilet and a ladder, and that outside sink should not be called a sink if it doesn’t have a drain. Also, boon-docking for several days without several hundred watts of solar is very difficult with a 12 volt compressor fridge unless you also have a generator to charge the batteries and possibly use an AC unit occasionally on a hot day.
White accent color 🖐🏼
🙌🏻
take 100 watt solar
Looks great but wish they could cut off the bunk portion and get rid of all of the outside kitchen except the ice maker and leave the rest of that pocket wide open for extra storage and create a mini couples 5th wheel.
That would be very much like this one I think m.ruclips.net/video/P03CTS2AvC0/видео.html&pp=sAQA
(Forgot the camp kitchen when I linked this, but there’s room)
Can you recommend the best RV cover for this specific RV?
Spoke with our service team - Sounds like ADCO's "All Weather" variety is still our go-to
They could actually assist you with getting one ordered and shipped directly to you at 800-256-5196
I will say, looking at these bunkhouse models, and having a toddler, I actually prefer at least one of the bunk houses having a window that doesn't open.
I…. Totally get that actually
Killin me Holmes. Lol. #sizzle
100W all day, color accent lights could be more flexible.
Too bad the can’t flip the layout and put all those windows on the camp side
It’s possible but the RV would have to extend to make room for everything without conflicting with the door
Kitchens often suffer when reduced to fit into a slide as well
Hey you were the one that brought it up years ago 😂 it’s one of those things you don’t appreciate until you don’t have it
When you mentioned that you were born in the 80’s i was feeling kinda old for a moment .Then i thought at least i was born in the last month of 1960 and ... well that didn’t help.
You’re young for your age though
Hey Josh, On the thumbnail. Did you misspell, lightest on purpose, and am I the only one to notice? Love ya mean it. 🤣
lol - no not on purpose. You're the first to mention it. THANK YOU by the way. Just a symptom of me working alone and going way too fast trying to keep up
Can you live in these 24/7? Never owned one before
Some people do. It's not necessarily built with that intention. You also need to keep in mind the weather patterns in your area if stationary as even the best insulated RVs aren't rated to handle some of our country's more extreme cold weathers
This would be perfect if the rear bunk was a second slide and had three or four bunks.
They make that too! See here m.ruclips.net/video/v-SS8wGWWEQ/видео.html
@@JoshtheRVNerd I like that one, too bad covid screwed us all over and helped the prices skyrocket.
If you're spending 10s of ks on an RV, why you wouldn't spend another 200 bucks to double your solar is beyond me. So yeah, when I get my RV I'll be maximizing my solar.
If I have a 2900+ payload rating, is it still 3/4 ton ( f250 ) towable once it is filled with gear, water propane tcc? I have heard from people tell me I will need a 1 ton (f350).
No I think you’re set there. Your payload is more than double it’s hitch weights and seems very reasonably appropriate for this RV
@@JoshtheRVNerd Sweet. People are saying I am way over weight once I load the camper and truck. Because the pin weight would go up to 2000-2200lbs if fully loaded
Must have a solid 5/8 floor or its junk. People need to know this.
5/8” tongue and groove plywood in these
1400w
I have an Alpha Wolf TT.....HATE the blue lights! Absolutely wish they were white!
Ty Kelly. I feel the same
The solar is to small even with the extra 50 watt (HA HA) panel.