HONEST 2 YEAR REVIEW OF OUR 2020 LANCE 1985 RV
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- Опубликовано: 29 июн 2024
- We have owned our 2020 Lance 1985 RV travel trailer now for 2 years. In this video, we will discuss what we like about it, what we don't like about it, the issues we have had and whether we would buy another Lance product in the future. This trailer has been put to the test with over 30,000 miles on it and over 200 nights in it.
#lance #rv #travelswithdelaney
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I think you were very fair in your review, Patrick. As previous NuCamp owners, we were drawn to Lance for the same reasons you were. All in all, we've been very pleased with our 2021 2285 and have had only minimal issues. We don't travel nearly as much or as far as you do, so things like tire wear due to bent axles will take much longer to reveal themselves for weekend warriors.
We've had a few issues in our first two years. The rollers under the slide had to be replaced with heavier-duty versions as the slide would "bump" at one point during its in/out travel, though it never got hung up. The dealer addressed that under warranty. Our "coffin" slide-out tray in the front storage compartment deformed, and Lance refused to cover that. The metal hardware (like the plates that latch the doors open) rusted in the first six months. The blank tank flush failed, which resulted in water spraying inside the trailer. The plastic internals of the bathroom faucet cracked, which caused a leak, necessitating the replacement of the fixture. We too had the Dometic stove recall, but the dealer was able to quickly source parts and address that. We've had a few screws come loose (Lance seems to under-size fasteners). The cheap propane regulator got dodgy after a year and finally failed. All of these are 100% on Lance in my opinion but are minimal compared to the horror stories I've seen and heard from people with other brands.
I think my biggest issue with your trailer is Lance's apathy. Sure, they didn't make the bent Dexter axles, but they chose to use them, and they were fully aware of the problem. They could also have easily checked for the bend at the time of manufacture and rejected those axles, but they didn't; they transferred that problem on to you as the consumer. By most accounts, Dexter has been pretty responsive in working with customers directly, but a customer shouldn't have to work with a component manufacturer. Lance should have immediately stepped up and handled the replacement of both axles, provided four new tires, and reimbursed you for the money you had to spend on tires along the way.
Likewise with the slide. Once it was clear that it was installed wrong, Lance should have handled things for you without your dealer having to fight. Ditto on the slide pulling away from the wall, which is a design flaw, a manufacturing defect, and something Lance is very well aware of. If this were the automotive industry, they would have issued a Technical Service Bulletin at the very least, if not a recall.
I honestly believe your frustration would have been minimized and your satisfaction greatly increased had Lance stepped up and taken responsibility for these issues once you made them aware. I think the real question isn't whether or not you're satisfied with your trailer; it's more about whether or not you're satisfied with Lance as a company, and whether or not you would do business again with a company that doesn't appear very interested in customer satisfaction.
It's what coporations do. F The Customer.
That’s exactly what they did with my appliances. We didn’t make them, not our responsibility. They just hobble together a bunch of subpar parts and say not our responsibility. L-A-M-E
I am a proponent of buying quality things - cars, boats, etc., taking care of them and keeping them a long time. I expect to pay a premium for quality, and stuff happens and stuff breaks. But when you are paying this kind of money for an RV, you should be able to expect decent service, and it sounds like that is sorely lacking. Disappointing. Thank you for the balanced review.
Great update 👍
Can't believe Lance can get away with not posting the numbers properly.
Cheers
Wow a lot of comments! We bought a 2020 Lance 2375 in November 2020; had to drive from Idaho to Colorado to get the one we wanted. Our family travels and camps with four other families, and all of us bought new RVs between 2018 and 2021. We've compared them, worked together to fix them, and bitched about little and big things we didn't like. One Lance, two Jaycos, one Grand Design and one Outdoors RV. I think the Lance and the Outdoors RV have the best workmanship, but they are the most expensive. Our Lance had the Dometic stove recall problem, but Lance just send a new stove(a bit nicer one) to the dealer of our choice for install. We haven't done much to our Lance other than multiple screw replacements with Gorilla glue for prevention. We all installed various upgrade components; from maxair/fantastic fans, solar panel/lithium bats stuff, etc. We pull our 2375 with 2020 Tundra with Roadmaster Active Suspension, with zero problems. The owners of Grand Design 26ft and Outdoor RV 24 foot pull with 3/4 ton pickups. I am pretty sure the Outdoor RV is the heaviest TT. Each of us has dealt with component issues. I have had excellent treatment by Lance customer service(Mary), but that was just the Dometic stove issue. The 2375 does not have the U-shaped dinette, so the slide is shorter and lighter. At first I would hear a bit of squeaking and minor grinding with the motor noise, but then I started lubing the rollers as well as the normal track maintenance. I have not seen the structural bolt problem yet. We've loved out Lance so far, and I can say that it is probably the most comfortable or the 5 TTs. Having a dinette and a couch makes for less cramped living.
Would I buy a Lance again? 50/50 not because of problems, but just because you are paying a $10K premium over all but the Outdoor RV, which you might get back in resale value. The Outdoor RV would be my first choice if I had a bigger truck, because that beast pulls a heck of a lot harder than the Lance, even tho they are the same length.
Basically, the components are getting to be junk and we expect the manufacturer to solve that problem. They shift the problem to the dealers, who can't get good technician/workers, if they can get workers at all. If you absolutely cannot accept the myriad of problems related to owning an RV, put your money into a good tent.
I don't have an RV, however, I did enjoy reading your detailed reply.
Warm Regards from bone dry Reno, Nevada
I believe that manufacturers should be holding dealerships more accountable for the BS that is going on with service. And Lance should be listening to their customers and fixing all of these issues. They are way too expensive to be having all these problems. Turns me off to go out and lay out $50,000 for problems.
After nearly two years of full time travelling the US in our 2021 Lance 1985, we had to replace under warranty our AC unit, furnace, microwave trim (which has broken again) and the rear center clearance light. Timing of the failures were ok season wise, but the wait for the parts was horrendous! As in months! As far as being full time RVers, I must say that our unit stood up mostly to the smart design of the RV and the quality of parts and materials. As far as buying another? I got what I wanted and when I look to my left then my right, I just smile! Aloha Patrick!
Very fair comments...We purchased a 2021 Lance 1995 as RV newbies... We've had the benefit of three good duration/long distance trips with it and have (generally) loved the coach...A couple of learnings from us...First, we initially did not appreciate the pounding and wear-and-tear that travel trailers undergo when they are being towed...Everything is moving and often moving in formation...Anything one can do to secure and stabilize the interior components is time well spent...A big example for us was installing adjustable stabilizing legs under the slide when its brought in as its a big slide most of which the interior "box" is unsupported when brought in...We can only imagine the leverage that box exerts when under tow with the drawers full! Second, there is no substitute for taking the time to inspect everything inside and out before pulling out... At the end of the day, we're very impressed by the materials that went into our trailer as well as the construction quality. That said, our decision to buy another (bigger) Lance will ultimately be based on the support and service of the dealer and the Manufacturer...I'd rather pay someone else more money secure in the knowledge that they are willing and responsive 'partners' in our RV experience. The smart industry leaders understand that the best marketing arm for new sales is existing owners who describe to others their experiences and transfer their passion for their units...
I can’t believe it has already been two years! Time goes by so fast. 😁
I love that your Lance is 4 season and the walk around bed.
It would be frustrating that the published weight numbers were so far off. 🥺
Great review Patrick!
Great review! Thank you for your honest feedback!
Thanks, Patrick, for the great review. Unfortunately, you only began to experience the problems we had with our 2020 Lance Model 1985. Within our 1st year of ownership, we received the same certified recall letters from Lance and Dometic regarding the propane leak issue in the stove. That notice advised us not to use the stove, oven or ANY GAS appliance, i.e. furnace, (or fridge, hot water heater if boondocking), so we did not use them which made the camper nearly useless in the fall of 2020 and early 2021. Then, in the spring of 2021 our slide out quit working - just like yours. Unlike your situation with Lippert, we were under warranty and took it to the dealer. The dealer's Service Manager said the slide out itself was " out-of-square" and would "never work properly unless it was replaced". The dealer put me in the middle of a contest/battle between them and Lance. By the fall of 2021, Lance won the battle and sent the dealer a new slide out mechanism which the dealer installed. Next, just days before the slide out quit working, I went to prepare the camper for our very first trip of 2021 on a rainy weekend. Both skylights were pouring water into the bathroom and onto the dinette. Keep in mind we could not use our 1985 all summer and fall due to the non-operable slide out. When I took the 1985 in to get the skylights replaced (late in the year of 2021), the dealer immediately called me to come back so that I could document all the damaged, rotten wood surrounding the 1st skylight they began to replace. Once again, I was placed between the dealer service department and Lance. Why, you ask? Because Lance would not let the dealer go beyond replacing the white PVC outer covering, as this became a "structural" issue. Lance instructed the dealer to put a new covering of Luan plywood over the rotted wood surrounding the skylights and to cover the new plywood with the new PVC. I said "hell no, you are not covering rotten wood with new plywood". The dealer also said "no, covering rotten wood with glue and screws is not a long-term solution" so my 1985 went back to the factory in CA. This all took place at the beginning of April of this year. It is August 7, and I still do not have my camper back so I have lost the bulk of the 2022 camping season. I wish I could tell everyone stories of my travels with my new Model 1985 but I was only able to pull it a few hundred miles after I bought it during the summer of 2020. Now, I am worried about the axles being bent once I get it back with the new roof. I could go on much longer but I have two more important issues. At the 1-year mark, I went to grease the bearings. One of the four wheels had gunk all over the outside of the drum. I took it in and discovered that Dexter had failed to install the seal in this drum during manufacturing process. I live in the mountains and learned that I was running on only 3 of my 4 brakes as the bad drum and brakes within it were engulfed in grease. Finally, (and no, I am still not done!) I bought a brand-new Toyota Tacoma to tow my 1985 Lance and was assured by the dealer that it was the perfect truck. The maximum tongue-weight capacity on the Tacoma is 640 lbs. Worried, like you, that when you add three, 45 lb. propane tanks, 2, 50 lb. batteries, all RVing accessories to the front storage compartment, a generator to the other front compartment and 45 gallons of fresh water that I might exceed my 640 lb. limit, I measured it with a scale. I got a similar reading as you did. I was exceeding my tongue weight by 300 lbs. - another very dangerous situation. I Immediately sold the Tacoma and bought another tow vehicle.
Finally, here is another interesting footnote... while the factory was installing my new roof, they installed the recall part(s) on my stove, (the dealer was never able to get the needed part after inquiring about it on over 6 warranty-related visits covering 18 months). So, I finally got the part installed nearly 2 years after receiving my recall notices from Lance and Dometic in November of 2020! At least now I don't have to worry about dying in a fiery propane-induced explosion in my camper if I ever get it back!
Once you get your RV back from the factory, it’s time to sell. It’s obvious you got one that’s possessed and for whatever reason, will always have something needing repair. A final word of advice; make sure your next RV does not have a Schwintek slide. Every manufacturer using them have issues. Stick with the Ram or cable driven units. Good luck!
Wow, that is a nightmare. Sorry to hear your saga.
I hope everyone with an RV take their time to read your thoughtful & detailed issues with the dealer/RV manufacturer.
Warm regards from bone dry Reno, Nevada
Thanks for you’re honest opinion. I would have to reconsider now buying Lance.
Great information, it keeps me on the airstream want list.
Lance is one of my favorites- so nice, they look luxurious compared to others. I'm amazed at the weight discrepancy, how can that happen? And the axle and slide issues scare me -these campers are expensive! If I was you, never again!!
Well done and fair.
Thank you so much! I really tried to be both honest and fair.
Thank you for an honest review.
Thanks for posting. We have experienced similar problems with our trailers, and were hoping Lance could offer us better. It appears they cant, but our options are limited as they all seem to be the same. Thanks for your "heads up".
Thanks for your honesty
You are welcome. Thank you for watching.
Thank you for sharing the review with us. I am considering buying a Lance In the future. I had an axle issue with my TT. Bent axle that caused uneven wear on a tire. Great video. Thank you!
Thank you!
Good, honest assessment of the Lance.
Nice review of what makes a Lance a great camper. Tell Patty that I love how the bedroom area looks with the new linens.
Thank you so much! She has it looking really good and makes it feel so homey.
Great review Patrick thanks 😊
Thank you!
Very good review, that really helps me to looks past Lance's marketing claims.
Thanks, good summary
Thank you!
Informative video. Thank you.
You are welcome!
I miss your tab! You did great videos with it.
MEeee too!
We purchased just before covid and have been very happy with our lance 2375 with only minor issues. We agree the fit and finish quality is quite nice. However, we looked at the current pricing. And there is no way we could justify paying more than $30000 more for the same trailer today! I'm sure it is not just lance but the pricing has gone ridiculous. They've also changed the interior and I haven't seen it in person but it appears not quite the same quality as it once was.
That's too bad, I was seriously looking at Lance, and this definitely changes my opinion - thanks for your honest review.
Another great video ; telling it like it is. The whole RV industry is in turmoil. Now that the U.S. economy is 'tilting downward' ( without getting into any politics.....) recreational vehicles are just that , a hobby that can become a passion with many. For me and my trailer, it is a means to an end. Pulling the RV around New England and using this device as my base of operations is way less expensive than staying in hotels. For this reason alone I continue to use the RV as necessary, but I don't count on it for perfection. The slide on your Lance should have never had that happen to it. Given the substantial investment in that rig, Lance really should apologize ( I hope they did ) and, at the very least, cover it's repair under warranty. Thanks for your material, love the doggy's too ! Bill S.
Thank you Bill! Sadly Lance has been less than emphatic to our issues as well as others I have heard about. We have spent quite a bit of money to get the our trailer fixed. Lance even denied our dealers request to cover the parts for the most recent slideout issues.
Patrick and Patty I love your Lance too and the way it’s set up. I like what you have done to modify it. Love the stove you use since the original is recalled. And love the oven as well. Great use to use those. I would feel the way you do not sure if I would get another Lance. Didn’t your seat in dinette was falling a part. How do you fix something like that in an Rv? I have never know that to happen. I love your Lance it a lot of space. Also the air conditioner does sound loud.
Hope you have a great week and see you on down the road.
Well me and my wife were ready to buy an RV and she is so set on having this Lance trailer this is the one she wants she is not willing to haggle at all .. she said it's this one or nothing .. and I got to admit I liked it a lot... I really do.. it's a big commitment .. it's a lot of money .. and I only want to do it once . so I'm going to take your advice I'm going to take her advice because well I don't have any other choice.... oh yeah as a country boy from Wyoming... I really appreciate your ball cap brother
Love the Steamboat hat! Go Pokes!!!!!
Thank you for the most honest review. Unfortunatlely the Lance owner's site is filled with stories like yours. I had a 2022 Lance 1575 on order from early Sept. 2021 that I finally cancelled because of fit and finish issues on what I saw being delivered plus the overall reduction in materials quality. In addition, dealing with Lance was an exercise in trying to figure out what was BS and what was not (hint...it was mostly BS). It is now nearly one year since I placed my order and Lance has yet to produce a single 1575. If I hadn't listened to the experience of many others (which made me run for the hills), I'd still be waiting. I walked away feeling like I'd dodged a bullet.
When it comes to RVs, it seems like you & others have come to realize "less/smaller", is MORE.
Warm Regards from bone dry Reno, Nevada.
Excellent discussion on Lance quality. Our 1685 has held up very well, only minor issues--but we've only put about 10k miles on it. It was a bit of a wallet buster though! Our experience has been much better than yours, but since we haven't had to depend on their customer support, we're only seeing half of the story. Hope you have better luck moving forward my friend!
Great review! Yes, Lance blatantly lies about their vehicle weights. I owned two Lance campers that were grossly over weight from their advertised specs. The first one I took straight to the scales after purchase, and it wasn't anywhere close to the advertised empty weight. After months of fighting with Lance, they took it back in exchange for a lighter model.
A very good and honest review. Seems like your trailer issues are far from unusual and very common if not worse with other brands. Overall I was attracted to Lance for the quality that I saw. I looked at the smaller Lance models but my champagne taste didn't reflect my beer pocket. A 20K price increase wouldn't be feasible for us.
We decided on a Gulf Stream Retro that we saw on sale at a the Hersey RV show. It fit the bill with the features that we wanted and the price was right.
I hope Lance is listening! My wife and I were considering one but after seeing this video and learning about your major issues, we are reconsidering. At the very least, Lance customer support should treating you guys with kid gloves (all customers really, for the money their campers cost).
Best luck going forward and I hope the major issues are behind you.
Thank you! And we agree....for the prices Lance is charging, they. really need to up their customer service game. Based upon our experiences so far with them, I really doubt they are listening though to us or any of their customers.
I enjoyed the video. I have to say that I expected you to praise it at the end, and you didn’t. Excellent honest review. Is Alaska in the forecast for next year?
Thanks!
Thank you so much!
Great review👍
Thank you!
Patrick, thanks for the video. Your thoughts on the Lance are very similar to ours. We have a mid 2017 Lance 1985 with Roadster interior; so far we’ve towed it just over 30,000 miles and its held up well. The heavy tongue weight (860lbs) convinced us to sell our paid for Ram 1500 Laramie and get a 3/4 ton with more load capacity. I love the convertible couch; my wife likes sitting in the dinette. We paid $34k for our fully opted model before taxes. Spent $8k more on BattleBorn batteries, better mattress, upgraded bathroom vent fan, slide out flange stainless steel through bolts and Torklift Glo-Step Revolution steps. The new models cost so much more for basically the same stuff. Our AC is also super loud and we’re not fans of stepping up into the dinette. I want to try the Coleman Mach NDQ AC (should be quieter) and switch to a 12v compressor refrigerator but this will cost ~ $5k more. 😕
Thanks for taking your time & effort to share you RV experiences & expenses.
Warm Regards from Reno, Nevada
Thank you for sharing your experiences. We too are looking at a possible truck upgrade for the same reasons. Trucks are just so expensive right now so we may have to wait on that.
Great review Pat. It’s fair to say that in those two years, Covid affected everyone, manufacturers,dealerships and rv owners. Parts and labor was scarce, rv prices went thru the roof because everyone confined at home wanted to go camping. Sadly though; fast forward to now; things haven’t gotten any better. It is still really hard to make appointments, dealerships are lacking skilled technicians and parts are hard to come by.
You are so right Mo! The RV Industry as a whole is a mess. The manufacturers make them as fast as they can with no thought on how to service them or support the dealerships. I think they are going to be really hurting in a year or so as the used market gets flooded. I am already seeing a lot of RV’s for sale along the road and online.
Lance is great. They ALLare a mess re repairs, parts, etc.
They’re all Lance 2020 - right?😂
I would never say my Lance is great. My Lance is good enough when it’s not raining and all I need to do is use the bed. Because every other part sucks
thank you for the fair and honest review, As i have been looking at these as i need a 4 season rv for when I go to work in the oil fields. since i can end up anywhere from Texas to North Dakoda. I wonder if you can upgrade the axles to 3500. just a thought.
Thanks for your very frank and forthright review of your trailer. I think if I was in your place I would have very mixed feelings as well. A couple of the problems you’ve had I would put into a major category, and having to replace tires as fast as you have and having to replace two axles. The finish of the design/layout does work for you very well as we’ve seen in your previous videos. But that can also be accomplished in another brand of trailer that doesn’t have some of the issues you faced. Of course, it could have different ones. I guess the best advice is to do your homework and talk to a lot of people about their experiences with their trailers before buying.
Very true. Sadly these days its the luck of the draw with RV’s and their quality . We have talked to other Lance owners that have not had any major issues. It seems like it all depends on which one you get.
Great review of your Lance TT. I was researching various brands as we currently have a 2020 Keystone Cougar which we have had a few pretty significant issues with and Keystone has not been receptive or interested in assisting us in the repair of these issues. It is easy for us to answer the question, "Would we purchase another Keystone product?" and our answer would be 'NO! " We would not purchase nor could we ever recommend a Keystone. Where you found Lance's customer service mediocure, we have found Keystone's to be non existant. They won't ever return e-mails or phone calls.
Excellent video, Patrick. I've read all the replies, many of which are long & detailed which is a good thing. You're definitely getting an earful, hopefully others will take their time to read some of those long detailed replies..
Thank you BIll! I figured this video would get a lot of discussions going. I really tried to be honest and fair in my assessment.
@@TravelswithDelaney At least you've not had any issues with you-know-what. Which gas generator are you putting in the truck, the Honda EU2200i or the Harbor Freight 3500 Predator?
Thank you for your honest review. I am currently looking at small RV manufacturers like Outdoors RV. I’ve lost faith in the big guys. It appears that Lance has joined the big guys.
Thanks for the honest review. My wife and I were originally drawn to the Winnebago Micro minnie's, but then heard that they had a lot of issues because of poor quality materials. Then we started looking into the Lances because they seem to be a much better quality, all be it with a substantial price increase from other trailers! So now I'm not sure if it's worth paying $1000's of dollars more for an upscale trailer when your going to just have the same issue's as a lower end one.
I think I would go with the fiberglass trailers as they are not built by the big corporations. Oliver and Escape would be my choice.
Like almost all RVs, the older ones are better. My 2014 2295 has held up very well with the exception of the ability to hold screws on the inside cabinets. I've replaced all screws with plastic inserts and that fixed the issue.
Interesting. We have a 2021 2375 which is in the shop for an axle replacement. Our first big trip was earlier this year, a cross country, 14,000 plus mile journey. I started noticing uneven tire wear maybe 2000 miles in. At about 13,000 miles I swapped for the spare. Dexter is evaluating now. Can’t ding Lance for an axle issue.
Other than that the only issues have been small and I’ve taken care of them myself. This is our second Lance, the first being a 1995. Few issues with it either, and I sold it for only a few thousand less than I paid for it 5 years earlier. They are expensive, but they hold their value if taken care of.
I concur - on the tongue weight issues you describe. I've got a 2022 Model 1985. Same thing. Had to remove my generator from its intended slot. Had to move a case of water bottles and a case of pop from under the front located underbed storage to the rear-mounted shower stall for travel. And more.
The first 4-1/2 months of ownership have been underwhelming. This from the context of my previously owning a Class C, three different brands of Class A's over a 20-year period and now a 9-year old Lance Truck Camper. in addition to the 1985 Model trailer.
All of which is to say, that while I'm fairly well acquainted with a variety of typical RV issues, I'm just not confident that I made the right buying decision this time . . .
Great review Patrick. Hopefully you’re not having electrical issues in the dinette at 7:58 mark. You either have a ghost playing with the light or Patty was playing with the switch!😂🦞
LOL! No ghosts or electrical issues. I think it has to do with the camera and those lights being LED. I saw that in editing was wondering about it myself.
Good review
Thank you!
Patrick, I feel your pain brother. We have a 2019 2375. When we were trying to decide which Lance to purchase we looked at several models including the 1975 which we really wanted to buy until we looked at the weight numbers. This was our fourth trailer in 20 years and we Really wanted to be sure it was the right one. The capacity on the 1975 was a deal breaker for us so we went for the 2375. I'm glad we bought it when we did. We have had to replace one axle so far and there have several typical small issues. The axles aren't bent but poor quality control during manufacturing. It's not limited to Lance trailers. All in all its been the perfect trailer for us and still think it far better that most other units on the market. We were lucky to get the stove recall do e last year. Until this spri g we towed with a 2014 Toyota Tundra but now have a 2022 F150. It's really improved our towing experience. BTW I think we saw you heading south on the Maine turnpike a few weeks ago.
It is very possible you did see us in Maine! We were up there for about 3 weeks over the course of June/July. We are looking at a possible truck upgrade. Our Tundra tows it well but if we have more payload, then we can put more stuff in the truck bed since our trailer is maxed out.
@@TravelswithDelaney The F150 with Max tow package and four wheel drive will tow 13,390 pounds. The 3.5 L turbo with 10 speed transmission is HUGE.
Great and balanced review. I too bought a Lance trailer (model 2075) during the COVID years. I had nuisance issues. My biggest beef was with the dealer. Nevertheless, as mainly a weekend camper with one longer trip a year, I was tired with having to take the trailer to the dealer repeatedly, often for the same, albeit relatively minor, issues. I've sold it and have ordered a molded fiberglass trailer, an Oliver Elite II. They are smaller, but Oliver has renowned customer service and very few screws to fall out. The size won't work for everyone, but for me, I'll trade the larger size of a conventionally-built RV for a more carefree experience. Hopefully the biggest of your issues are behind you.
Oliver "eggs" are definitely a top of the line, quality built fiberglass type of RV & a decision you'll come to realize was a "good" decision as more time passes.
Have you rec'd delivery of your Oliver & what have been your experiences with your unit & Oliver in general?
Warm Regards from bone dry Nevada.
@@azclaimjumper I take delivery on January 3rd.
My compliments to the decorator(s). Looks so nice. Sorry to hear about the issues but thanks for your candid review. Do you know anything about Northwood products. Are they any better?
I am not familiar with the Northwood products.
Nice review!
I currently own a 2018 Lance 1685 and overall really enjoy the trailer. I also have had the issue of the lower exterior slide rails tearing loose from the outside of the trailer. In the 2018 model year they had just used self tapping screws to install the exterior rails and they eventually stripped out. As many had done, I just removed the bottom two screws on each side, drilled them through to the inside and installed 1/4 inch nuts and bolts. Also added a 1 inch metal plate on the inside wall to help spread the load. I also added the Camco stands on the inside underside of the slide to help support it. This seems to have been an issue with Lance slides for years.
Considering the price of a new 1685 is about double what I paid for mine, it is hard to justify that much for a 16 foot trailer. Although I plan to keep it for awhile, I can see this being my last Lance.
That is the repair we are planning to do on our slide. I agree totally that the new pricing is just hard to justify.
Great video. We have a 2022 Lance 1985 and already we have issues with the roof. There is cracking along the rubber seals and some of the seams. The rubber seal around the front bay window is coming off and it leaks. When we bought the unit, there were two windows without blinds and we were told it was a supply chain issue but that the blinds were in and would be installed right away. That was April and we are still waiting. Glad to hear most of your issues were fixed. Lance customer service is bad and it’s frustrating getting a straight answer. Our camper is barely six months old so we hope some of this is under warranty.
I am so sorry to hear you are having issues with yours. Roof leaks are never good. I hope you are able to get your issues taken care of.
From personal experience, keep the pressure on Lance customer service. Take notes and email regularly to get updates. The squeaky wheel gets the grease!
Looking good., For the algorithm.
Thank you! Appreciate it.
Yep that was our take too with lance. You should scope out artic fox. We have had great customer service, a few issues nut they were all resolved.
I will have to see where the closest Artic Fox dealer is to us.
Thanks for a very interesting review of your trailer. I try to be object about RV’s in that when I hear people make remarks like “the trailer looks like a garden shed going down the highway” and they are all simply expensive garbage I explain that most RV’s are basically a rolling earth quake. Stuff will always come loose
My wife and I went back to RV use in 2014 and we bought a 18 yr old Airstream. The model was a 25’ Safari and over the 4 years we owned the unit we put considerable mileage on it. I had to constantly do maintenance and re-attach things that worked loose.
Overall, the Airstream despite its age still held up well.
We switched to a NuCamp starting with a tiny model them upgraded to the same unit you guys had. After one year we sold that trailer as I found it too small and bought a 2019 Airstream 23’ front bedroom.
I found the difference between this newer Airstream and our old Airstream to be significant. The new Airstream although nice and new is not nearly as well made.
I think in the case of your Lance, our Airstream and all RV,s the manufacturing process has been degraded by the lack of skilled craftsperson’s. The manufacturers hire people with little real skills to assemble an RV and having watched how Airstreams are made I get the feeling that they are virtually “thrown together”. A sad reflection of the times.
Watching your video, I would definitely not buy a Lance trailer. I had actually considered selling the Airstream we have now as I would prefer a larger floor space for my wife and I and our two little dogs.
Finally I have a friend who owns a Keystone Bullet and he has had so much trouble with that unit that I think our problems may be far less.
The Bullet is unfortunately really prone to leaks, dining room table falling off the wall as the mounting brackets was stapled to the frame and the floor becoming water logged.
Thanks for your candid review on your Lance. Good luck going forward.
Thank you for taking your time to provide us with such a detailed reply.
Thank you for sharing your insights into the industry. I would agree that today’s units are not nearly as well made as the ones 10-20 years ago.
Thanks for the honesty! I really don’t like the fact that the axles are bending! Knowing what they know they should over engineer the axles! That said, I think it may be a bit too small for me
I believe the 2022 model now comes with 3500# axles which is an improvement in sizing.
Thanks for the great information....I've been giving Lance campers some thought as we are going to take our show on the road and possibly Work Camp. We have an InTech Sol Dawn now that I'm fairly happy with other than it's small.....thinking I should just go with the devil I know.
Great video review. We have a 1685, 2018 and are interested in the support jacks you reference for the inside of cabin to support the slideout. I also have broken bolts on the outside of the slideout which I am planning to replace. But I like the concept of supporting the slide when we are traveling down the road. I think you said they were Camco?
I think the Lance is really well built we purchase used one and it was a good deal for us. I agree the new Lance has gotten very expensive. thanks for the suggestions and comments.
Bob T
Yes….we have the Camco step supports. I just purchased them on Amazon. I place one on each end of the slide during travel. They come in 2 sizes. Just measure the height of your slide from the floor to make sure you get one that will fit.
Great information on things to watch for (i.e. uneven tire wear). My new Casita is scheduled to be delivered to me here in Sturgeon Bay, Wisconsin this September. I wanted as few add-ons as possible to avoid mechanical/build problems, but I realize none of them are perfect. I really rely on a lot of your videos for advice and suggestions as well as warnings. Thanks for all the time you spend helping the rest of us! Godspeed on your travels.
Two thumbs DOWN on any & all Casita's
Thank you Michelle! Congratulations on your new trailer! I hope you get to make lots of wonderful memories in it.
AZ Claimjumper you keep saying this but never give a reason, troll?
Wow... this makes me feel better about the unit I bought from Coachmen which has had no major issues. Won't consider a Lance knowing they can cost twice as much as most similar rigs.
Well that is a deal breaker for me, the payload. I consider that some near criminal false advertising to get you to buy their trailer. WE depend on those numbers even with all the break downs they give... that just does not add up. Thanks for the review.
Very informative… I was considering this exact trailer for now 2023. Maybe I’ll think twice. I was under the impression that Lance was very high up in build quality… perhaps things have improved.. but for 20K more, it better…but does it really? 🤔 🤔
Wow. You are usually so positive (and forgiving) about everything you buy and try, so this really gives me pause. We’ve been sticking with the Tab400, and it’s still going strong after about 75,000 miles. The folks down in Sugarcreek are still a delight to deal with. We were thinking about upsizing; but after seeing this, I think we will either wait for the right one from Nucamp (I hear they’re working on one shorter than the Avia and longer than the Tab), or we will bite the bullet and pony up the cash for an Airstream.
How grateful I am for you and your helpful and informative videos. One day, I hope to meet you out there on the road! :-)
We miss the people at NuCamp...they are great! We still hope the come out with a trailer like you described. The Avia was just too big for what we wanted but we needed more space than we had in our 400
It's always nice to hear someone speak well of their unit & dealer after 75,000 miles
Warm Regards from bone dry Reno, Nevada.
Patrick on our 1575 once we heard of the slide out issue, Lance supplied us with replacement bolts for both sides.
We are actually selling our 1575 and going to a Winnebago Navion 24v.
Our dealer actually requested them and were denied. They said it was a modification and modifications were not covered under warranty. Glad to hear they covered yours.
Interesting to say the least. I hope Lance takes a look at this and changes some of their parts and services. We still love our T@b 400, and have had zero issues in the five years we’ve owned it, but we too would like more room. It’s a waiting game for us to see who inspires us to consider something new that’s as well built as T@b, and has all the bells and whistles we love. We’re VERY curious to see how the eStream by Airstream turns out!
We still hold out hope that someday NuCamp will do a larger version of the 400 with a walk around queen bed.
I agree. The Avia was just too large, and I wasn’t a fan of the pullout toilet area. All they need to do is add maybe 5 feet, rotate the bed 90 degrees (walk around), and somehow make the dinette larger and more plush (I love the airstream dinettes because the seats are much more plush and well made). Otherwise, I’m fine with the wet shower as I don’t need to waste unused space for that. I’m happy wrapping myself in with the shower curtain. Actually, I think I could design the perfect trailer if they’d let me, lol! So much I love about nuCamp!
Buying a trailer that was built during COVID is very risky. Not sure it’s any better now.
Many problems with the current trailers and service have shown up on Lance forums.
You might be better off with pre-COVID trailers that have already been sorted out.
Bought my 2017 Lance 2185 about a year ago and have been very happy with its quality,
and barring anything real serious, due my own maintenance.
Patrick, I concur on many of the interior design choices, the non ducted AC noise bothers us the most on our 2021 1985. Our GVWR is 6200lb which allows for a bit more cargo, and noticed the 2022 model is up to 7000lb. We haven't had as many issues as you.
See you on the road! Mike from Austin, TX
I, too, am hoping to see Patrick & Patti, on down the road, next summer here in Reno, Nevada.
I had also seen where the 2022 had the 7000# GVWR which would be so much better. Really glad to hear you haven’t has the issues we have had.
I must agree on the AC noise issue, but when the wife is hot and cranky, you better do SOMETHING! LOL!!
Great and honest review. We looked at a few Lance trailers as it was on our list of interest but I did not think the quality justified the high price tag. We ended up going with an Oliver Legacy Elite II. Superior customer service! Check one out, you will love the quality.
Excellent decision
We have friends with an Oliver and they love it. It is definitely one we will consider if we decide to make a change. I just could not justify another Lance at their current prices.
Based on your review, I'd have to say I'm not going to buy a camper with a slide. Lots of space, but too many problems. We have some non-slide floor plans in mind with numerous brands of trailers, but we don't need to decide for another year. I agree, though, that the build is gorgeous.
There are definitely pluses and minuses with slid outs. Our 5th wheel had 3 slide outs and we never had an issue with any of them over the 8 years we owned it.
Warranty service was my biggest frustration with my RV. Long waits, can’t just get something fixed. They have to inspect, send a bunch of info to the manufacturer, get authorization to order parts, another wait. Like pulling teeth to get anything done. Most dealers service sucks. At least with a car you take it in get the warranty work done right away . Not sure I want another RV.
I think that’s has something to do with lemon laws. RVs definitely need lemon law. I have this RV and it’s the biggest piece of shit I’ve stepped in.
Nice, honest video. 🤣🥰
Thank you Gail! Hope you are having a great trip! can't wait to hear all about it.
We have a 2021 1985. Like you, ours is obscenely tongue heavy, but I installed a Weigh Safe hitch so I can adjust the weight distribution for each trip. I've pulled trailers all my adult life and this trailer is probably the most stable because it has a heavy tongue weight (it is about 80 lbs short of being max stable TW when loaded - no margin for error). We haven't had slide problems yet and everything seems to work 10 months into ownership. We would not buy another Lance due to the cost increase and decline in quality and parts availability. I understand this is true with most RVs out there, to which I would say, we would get out of RVing if it came down to it. Most of the new units at our local dealer were shipped short of parts such as window treatments, and things like the stabilizer jacks were literally falling off. Anyway, good video - thanks for all the work you put into these.
The price increase has honestly priced us out of the Lance market. And I really am not sure they are worth the current asking prices. It will be interesting to see if prices continue at the current rates or if in a year from now, we will see some heavy discounting.
I agree. We got ours right before the wheels fell off our economy. Thank the Lord!
I like the floor plan of your Lance. Too bad about the weight of the rig. If you decide to sell, wait until after your Alaska trip. (According to our friends that have camped in Alaska, the trip is difficult on a vehicle/trailer).
The Alaska highway has broken many many vehicles including tractor/trailer rigs. A well insulated camper loaded into the back of a 1 ton pickup PLUS a Honda EU2200i generator would be my choice of rigs
We do really like the floor pan too! It does have a lot that we like about it.
Wow, so sad that a new travel trailer has so many issues. We were fortunate and purchased a great used R-Vision travel trailer. We have had no issues with it at all. Overall, what I have heard about new RVs the news is mostly bad. So many owners have had their new RV in the shop more than on the road. Quality seems to be out the window. Love your dogs! We have a Blenheim cavalier.
Aren't Cavaliers the best! They are such wonderful loving dogs.
@@TravelswithDelaney Yes, we agree. Cavaliers are the best dog.
Last June, I was going to buy a 1985 but they could not deliver it. I bought a Rockwood 2109S instead which is very similar. I saved $18-20K and it is as good if not better than the Lance. Prior to that, I was a Lance follower. They are very expensive.
hi like your lance TT. Great video ,vocabulary and production. would you change the tires to michellin defender?
Pat - thank you so much for your report. Great to have some experienced people provide an honest assessment to help others. My wife and I are searching for our first 20-25' RV that we can winter camp in if needed. We done a lot of looking and Lance trailers were our number one choice. ARGH!!!! Now after watching your video, I'm wondering is there a different brand of winter trailer you or anyone else on this blog would recommend? Also, do you think this is mostly a since COVID issue regarding the quality issues you have had (from COVID, Supply Chain, workforce shortages etc.) such that we might still consider a Lance, but stick to a trailer built before 2020? Any advice would be appreciated.
Winter camping is asking/expecting a lot from any RV that gets towed or driven. Probably better to think in terms of 3-season which is just my opinion.
@@azclaimjumper Maybe don't think in terms of a winter camper so much as strategies for winter camping. We originally were looking at a Lance 1575 but didn't get around to buying until RV prices had gone crazy, so we ended up with a different, less luxe new model (for about half the price at the time). It's not 4-season rated and we planned on being able to use in below freezing temperatures, so we dry camp. I swapped the RV toilet out for a 'Thetford curve' porta pottie with a floor mount and we leave the fresh water system winterized. Water comes from a jerry can and we do 'sea showers' with water heated on the stove and a pressurized insect sprayer with a spray nozzle (left over from our tent camping days). The porta pottie / cassette toilet is nice because it can be dumped into any pit toilet (common in the forest-service and other primitive campgrounds we like). No dumping black water at the dump station -- yay! And during our trips in the drought-stricken southwest, it's common for campgrounds to ban filling of RV water tanks, so the jerry can approach is perfect. The camper is warm enough at night that the grey-water traps in the sink and shower don't freeze, but we have some of the pink stuff to pour in them just in case. To help preserve heat on really cold nights, we have some of the aluminumized bubble wrap stuff cut to fit the windows and vents. The biggest challenge is solar recharging of the battery after a night of running the furnace (we're probably going to add another solar panel before heading out in a few weeks).
I have a 2017 forrest river salem cruis lite with slide. I've had one issue. Igniter on water heater replaced, that's it. A $23000 rv
wow, I can't believe it's already been 2 years!
I know! Time just seems to fly by anymore
I own the same 2019 Lance 1985, and luckily have had only minor issues. I will take your advice with the slide outs and will also replace the screws which are backing out.
I will say that you will not out run the quality issues with any manufacturer on the market. Be it a trailer, motor home, 5th wheel, it just doesn't matter. They are plagued with quality control issues and lack of any professional help. It's not the line workers at fault but the extremely high demand to get them out the door. When we travel and visit with other campers, we are constantly inquiring about their issues and also talking to mobile RV repair technicians. It's just a sad fact that you're going to have issues no matter what rig you purchase. Safe travels to all and keep those tool boxes handy.
Decades ago a friend of mine who was an RV repair technician told me "RVs are made & built to be 'repaired' not driven down the road & camped in".
I totally agree. The entire industry has quality issues and some of it stems from the part suppliers that they all deal with. I hope that as production and sales slow, they might start focusing on quality again.
"Doing what you can on your own is better than fighting a losing battle on the phone!" LOL!! Cheers!
Sounds like a nightmare to me. Sounds like Lance's quality has really went down. I've had two Lance truck campers; a 2010 and currently a 2016 855S. They have been bullet proof. I was thinking about a 1985 or 1995 Lance trailer. After doing minimal research FORGET it! I just heard Lance was bought out by another company. Thanks for sharing.
Had it been that long since you your Lance Rv? I can’t believe it. I remember when you got it. You had your New Camp. I can’t believe it’s been that long. I’ve know you for three years. It seems like it yesterday.
I know! 2 years goes by so quickly.
Good review. Two years already. Patrick I recall you bought this trailer from Princess RV in Round Rock Tx. I also recall you were not too happy with the service you received there. Would you still recommend Princess RV?
I know…its hard to believe its been 2 years already. We did buy it at Princess Craft and I would still recommend them. Others than a miscommunication about the parts for the oven, they have been really good to work with. PJ has taken actions last year to increase the level of customer service in the service department and it shows. Our last trip was outstanding.
Wow
I have a holiday Rambler 1995 and can take 4k lbs of cargo
The axels are beasts
It is a tank
I guess they don’t make them like that anymore
Very Honest Review! Question what trailer would you buy next? I will soon retire and would like to travel in a 2 year old trailer to save money, I am a rookie at this, someone please help me decide?
I would really depend on the size and type of trailer. For a small teardrop, NuCamp. For a travel trailer, probably a Lance again.
We were considering a Lance 2445 in early 2020 but noticed that the fit and finish was not even close to being as good as our 2017 2185. We decided not to get the 2445.
What did you get?
@@azclaimjumper We kept the 2185.
I think the quality on all RV's over the past couple of years has suffered. It will be interesting to see as sales decline and so does production, is there a shift back to a higher quality unit coming off the lines.
Your truck is also over the combined cargo capacity (ccc) yellow sticker inside driver door . On average a Tundra has approximately 1700 pounds, So minus the 900 pound tongue weight from the 1700 your down to 800 pounds then another approximately 400 pounds for passengers , generator and what ever else you place in the truck
We are actually looking for a new truck however the market right now is crazy. Hoping by this winter to find a good used one with a bit more payload capacity.
Wow. I’d be very interested in finding out what you devices you used to determine your tongue weight. Payload is often what limits what a truck can tow (more than towing capacity). To be almost 2x the stated tongue weight is completely unacceptable.
Many Lance dealers are too small to hassle with parts and Lance doesn’t sell parts direct… I sure hope they improve their focus on customer satisfaction…
Great review. I have a lance 1685 and am concerned about having slide out issues so would like to get a set of slide out supports like you show in the video but can't find them even after Googling, where did you get yours? Thanks
We ordered ours on Amazon. They are Camco step supports that I am using.
Would you purchase a NuCamp Avia next? Love the look!
NuCamp has stopped producing the Avia. We one one and as good as it looks, it too has its flaws.
Mo is correct! We originally looked at the Avia but it was just too big for what we wanted.
Enjoyed the review. Have followed you since the Jayco and 4Runner. Got both, then upgraded to a chevy 1500. For the money do you think a 23ft Jayco would be a better buy?
I am at the point now that probably a lower priced unit would be the better value. Even if the lower priced unit has a few more issues, they money savings could be used for repairs.
Well let’s put it like this. IF your in the position to get another travel trailer just go for it, something like 22ft to 24 ft pending on your truck. Beings customer service is middle of the road and all the rest then give yourself a bit more room and so forth. Shop around tho,, not like your in a big hurry. Also look at something new used per day. Wouldn’t hurt none.
What are your thoughts on the Nemo chairs after having them awhile? I am of similar stature to your husband and wondered how you like them as they are very expensive, thanks we are also previous Lance trailer owners with slide issues but now have a Lance truck camper with no slides! )Loving it)
We still love our NEMO chairs! We’ve owned them 3 years now and they are our only chairs we carry with us in the RV. We were just setting in them yesterday. They are very comfortable. We love the swinging action as well as the ability to recline to watch stars or more importantly take a nap. They are also a lot lighter than many chairs and fold up to a fairly small package. We have never regretted spending the money on them.
Truck camper have a lot of basics going for them when compared to RVs with axles.
Warm Regards from bone dry Reno, Nevada.