Lazy Daze Owners' Group

Lazy Daze Forums => Lazy Daze General Info & Discussions => Topic started by: Gary & Esther on June 27, 2022, 01:31:15 pm

Title: The day has come, LD has closed
Post by: Gary & Esther on June 27, 2022, 01:31:15 pm
Calling Mothership this morning. Busy signal all 3 lines.
Has something happened or ???

Thank you,
Gary
Title: Re: The day has come, LD has closed
Post by: pdl2win on June 27, 2022, 07:10:32 pm
Probably on their annual summer shutdown for vacations……they’re unaware of the internet or answering machines!!!!😂
Title: Re: The day has come, LD has closed
Post by: HiLola on June 27, 2022, 07:29:24 pm
Hopefully not a permanent vacation . . .  :o
Title: Re: The day has come, LD has closed
Post by: Lazy Bones 2 on June 27, 2022, 07:43:03 pm
Happens every year around this time. They shut down for a well needed vacation. 😎

And they are “Old School” no answering machine.
Title: Re: The day has come, LD has closed
Post by: pdl2win on June 27, 2022, 07:43:54 pm
Lazy Daze is permanently closed…..
Title: Re: The day has come, LD has closed
Post by: Nikki on June 27, 2022, 07:44:43 pm
I just read that also. Very sad day if it’s true.
Title: Re: The day has come, LD has closed
Post by: pdl2win on June 27, 2022, 07:48:22 pm
Apparently LD is permanently closed….most of us expected this….
Title: Re: The day has come, LD has closed
Post by: Ed & Margee on June 27, 2022, 07:48:23 pm
Where’s the source for this information?   Terribly sad if true.  
Title: Re: The day has come, LD has closed
Post by: Tony Morales on June 27, 2022, 07:52:31 pm



Spoke to Todd today and he informed me that due to many various and unfortunate factors currently going on the owner of Lazy Daze has decided to permanently close Lazy Daze effective immediately!
Lazy Daze knows this is somewhat sudden and apologize to the many amazing customers and potential customers ( long waiting list)that have supported Lazy Daze over the 66 years!
Additional information will be available soon!
Phones at the factory are down ( different issue ) but Todd can be reached via email at ldrvtodd@yahoo.com and in the next week or so 909-627-0941 will be activated by Todd for future Lazy Daze communication and assistance!
Thanks
Sorry and be well!
Todd
Title: Re: The day has come, LD has closed
Post by: desertdivanm on June 27, 2022, 07:53:19 pm
I read this on the Lazy Daze Caravan Club on Facebook:

<snip>
Spoke to Todd today and he informed me that due to many various and unfortunate factors currently going on the owner of Lazy Daze has decided to permanently close Lazy Daze effective immediately!
Lazy Daze knows this is somewhat sudden and apologize to the many amazing customers and potential customers ( long waiting list) that have supported Lazy Daze over the 66 years!
Additional information will be available soon!
Phones at the factory are down (different issue) but Todd can be reached via email at ldrvtodd@yahoo.com and in the next week or so 909-627-0941 will be activated by Todd for future Lazy Daze communication and assistance!
Thanks
Sorry and be well!
Todd
Title: Re: The day has come, LD has closed
Post by: martha2004mb on June 27, 2022, 07:55:12 pm
I read this post on the Lazy Daze Motorhome Fan Club:
Spoke to Todd today and he informed me that due to many various and unfortunate factors currently going on the owner of Lazy Daze has decided to permanently close Lazy Daze effective immediately!
Lazy Daze knows this is somewhat sudden and apologize to the many amazing customers and potential customers ( long waiting list)that have supported Lazy Daze over the 66 years!
Additional information will be available soon!
Phones at the factory are down ( different issue ) but Todd can be reached via email at ldrvtodd@yahoo.com and in the next week or so 909-627-0941 will be activated by Todd for future Lazy Daze communication and assistance!
Thanks
Sorry and be well!
Todd


This makes me really sad - Martha Carrillo
Title: Re: The day has come, LD has closed
Post by: dshaffer on June 27, 2022, 08:08:16 pm
This is very unfortunate and sad, I feel bad for the people that are losing their jobs; plus the people that wanted an LD motorhome. That F'ing pandemic has been so destructive to lives and to businesses.

I never had my name called to get an LD (actually decided six months ago to change direction to a truck and trailer), those of you that have had the privilege of owing an LD are very lucky; you have a very cool and unique motorhome, and I suspect the value will continue to rise since they will no longer be building new ones.

Title: Re: The day has come, LD has closed
Post by: brewersarcade on June 27, 2022, 08:18:38 pm
Jeez this is heartbreaking. What an amazing history. So are they even answering the phone to sell parts and remaining stock?
Title: Re: The day has come, LD has closed
Post by: John DaCrema on June 27, 2022, 08:24:01 pm
I just saw this.  I was hoping the company would find a new owner, but not one of the two big mega companies.  Sorry for the skilled workers. Sorry for Tod.  Sorry for the community.  It was one hell of a ride.
Title: Re: The day has come, LD has closed
Post by: SRQG8 on June 27, 2022, 08:33:29 pm
Agree with everyone’s sentiments. Very sad for those who worked there, and very sad for we who are fans of the brand. Also, must be very frustrating for those who have waited in line so long for a new one.
Title: Re: The day has come, LD has closed
Post by: JohnR on June 27, 2022, 08:42:50 pm
Very sad news… I feel really bad for all the displaced employees and for all those on the waiting list.  This by no means was any fault of theirs.  Covid, quarantines, shutdowns and supply chain delays were all contributing factors I’m sure.  And maybe Steve Newton was just tired of it all too.  I’m sure that piece of land in Montclair is worth a rather large fortune.  The one glimmer of hope is that Todd still wants to maintain contact.  This may turn into a repair business and that would be good news for LD owners as well as former employees.  Time will tell, but I hope something good rises from the ashes of Lazy Days.

- John
Title: Re: The day has come, LD has closed
Post by: ChrisB on June 27, 2022, 08:47:39 pm
Did I miss something?
My phone does not allow me to see all posts???
Title: Re: The day has come, LD has closed
Post by: sgskyway on June 27, 2022, 09:04:52 pm
The end of an era
Title: Re: The day has come, LD has closed
Post by: ChrisB on June 27, 2022, 09:06:08 pm
Oh my gosh!!
Lazy Daze is Done.
Sad Sad Sad!!
Title: Re: The day has come, LD has closed
Post by: John DaCrema on June 27, 2022, 09:22:15 pm
So who got the Last Daze?
Title: Re: The day has come, LD has closed
Post by: jakester1201 on June 27, 2022, 10:17:36 pm
LD Family,

So sorry to hear this news................many of us thought it could happen, but most felt there would be an interested party to purchase the operation/business when Steve decided to step down.  If the rumor is true, hopefully someone or some company is able to step up and takeover the business.  LDs are too good a product to just fade away!

Best Regards,

Gary & Karen
Title: Re: The day has come, LD has closed
Post by: RonB on June 27, 2022, 10:19:32 pm
Semi official confirmation has been received from Todd Miller, via a message to one of our members,  that indeed, Lazy Daze has ceased operations.  RonB
Title: Re: The day has come, LD has closed
Post by: Webebad on June 27, 2022, 10:28:45 pm
I went to the Mothership last Friday. I'm from Texas and was in the area. Wanted to check it out and possibly pick up a few parts. As I opened the front door a guy gets in my way and  I start to go around him he says how can we help you. I state I'm here to look around maybe buy a few parts that I need. He tells me we don,t have any inventory. It was Steve the owner. I continue to say hey I just want to look around. He says cant do it - he has to 70 year old women working and the dont want to get COVID.  I then ask maybe I could look at one of the new models, he says we dont have any inventory. I spent the next 30 mintues talking to Steve outside the shop, him just answering a few questions. It all was very weird. But there was no way I was getting into that store. Strange. I was telling him I bought my 26.5 MB in 1993 and how well it was still running and working great. Instead of him being proud of the Lazy Daze Model. He kept telling me how hard it was going to get a new refrigerator and or A/C and the like. I knew something was up when I left. It was a weird scene. I felt kinda like damn I came all the from Texas - Geez.   I love my LazyDaze and I wish Steve all the best.
Title: Re: The day has come, LD has closed
Post by: pdl2win on June 27, 2022, 10:33:33 pm
I went to the Mothership last Friday. I'm from Texas and was in the area. Wanted to check it out and possibly pick up a few parts. As I opened the front door a guy gets in my way and  I start to go around him he says how can we help you. I state I'm here to look around maybe buy a few parts that I need. He tells me we don,t have any inventory. It was Steve the owner. I continue to say hey I just want to look around. He says cant do it - he has to 70 year old women working and the dont want to get COVID.  I then ask maybe I could look at one of the new models, he says we dont have any inventory. I spent the next 30 mintues talking to Steve outside the shop, him just answering a few questions. It all was very weird. But there was no way I was getting into that store. Strange. I was telling him I bought my 26.5 MB in 1993 and how well it was still running and working great. Instead of him being proud of the Lazy Daze Model. He kept telling me how hard it was going to get a new refrigerator and or A/C and the like. I knew something was up when I left. It was a weird scene. I felt kinda like damn I came all the from Texas - Geez.   I love my LazyDaze and I wish Steve all the best.

Sounds like a typical “Steve chat”…..
Title: Re: The day has come, LD has closed
Post by: tedeboy on June 27, 2022, 10:46:53 pm
I consider us very very fortunate to get a 2021.
I wonder how this affects potential warranty issues although it's so well built I don't expect any.

😥😥
Title: Re: The day has come, LD has closed
Post by: Chris Horst on June 27, 2022, 10:47:40 pm
Did I miss something?
My phone does not allow me to see all posts???
Why?
Title: Re: The day has come, LD has closed
Post by: HiLola on June 27, 2022, 10:58:24 pm
Yes, a sad day indeed but not totally unexpected since they have had trouble getting chassis and other parts for the last couple years. Hopefully they will decide to continue selling parts and doing repair work.

In my opinion, this will make our LDOF community more important than ever to support each other with repairs and maintenance as our rigs (and we) age!
Title: Re: The day has come, LD has closed
Post by: Andy Baird on June 27, 2022, 11:14:01 pm
"this will make our LDOF community more important than ever to support each other with repairs and maintenance as our rigs (and we) age!"

You hit the nail on the head, Greg. The bad news that LD is closed is balanced by the fact, 
that, thanks to our excellent moderators and talented and helpful members, we have one of the best RV communities anywhere. We can and will support each other!
Title: Re: The day has come, LD has closed
Post by: Ed & Margee on June 27, 2022, 11:16:00 pm
I am NOT handling this situation very well.   I'm overwhelmed by the sadness impacting so many to include the extended family of LDOs ... Loyal Customers.  My world has just become a little darker.   :'(
Title: Re: The day has come, LD has closed
Post by: Wingersky on June 27, 2022, 11:52:11 pm
Horrible news.
Title: Re: The day has come, LD has closed
Post by: Wingersky on June 28, 2022, 12:08:11 am
There were a lot of "hints" that this day was coming. However, it is pretty sad news. After being on the waiting list for about three years, "plan B" will be the unfortunate reality.
Title: Re: The day has come, LD has closed
Post by: Lazy Bones on June 28, 2022, 12:17:13 am
Thank you Lazy Daze!

When my dear wife left this life in 2005 our 30'IB was less than a year old. It was then that the world came crashing down on my head.

But instead of crying in my beer I took the Lazy Bones on the road. Over the intervening years I have met dozens of new friends and have seen most of the U.S., including three times to Alaska.

So thank you Lazy Daze for saving my sanity and my heart, I could not have done it without you!
Title: Re: The day has come, LD has closed
Post by: Dave Katleman on June 28, 2022, 12:28:30 am
It’s surreal, reading this news in Yellowstone in my new Lazy Daze , same place I discovered Lazy Daze 18 years ago.
Title: Re: The day has come, LD has closed
Post by: Frank S on June 28, 2022, 01:34:16 am
In anticipation of this day and after 2 1/2 years on the waiting list, my plan B is a B which I just purchased - a 2023 Travato 59K .  It's a major change to the MB I once owned and I don't know yet just how well it will work out for me.   At 74 I felt something smaller and easier to drive might be appropriate to extend my days on the road.   For anyone interested check it out on Utube.

Frank 
Title: Re: The day has come, LD has closed
Post by: Jane on June 28, 2022, 02:11:50 am
We had been talking to Todd and heard the words “we have to figure things out” about a month ago, which reading between the lines I read as maybe not making LDs anymore, maybe doing repairs only., maybe shutting down completely.

We started looking at plan Bs. I talked to Vince (used to be LD service manager) a couple weeks ago to check on some things and ask about any runner up suggestions..  During our conversation I mentioned my talk with Todd and he said call Todd back, there might be a different answer now.

Todd’s new answer (2 weeks ago) changed to a defiant not making any LDs in the foreseeable future.  I know builds of other class Cs are still difficult to get and they are just trickling in right now.’ I figured LD didn’t want to fight for  a share of the products when the big companies were fighting to get all they could and had more clout.
But 2’weeks ago Todd was not saying we are done (yet), just strongly advising us to look elsewhere knowing we wanted one sooner.

FYI, Vince had no recommendations for a Class C of better quality he would suggest checking out

He confirmed the issues with Super Cs right now (Def component issues, easy to read about these on the internet).  I don’t know if you can avoid the issues if  you buy a SuperC more than a few years old but the new engines are still having the problems.

It sounded like Vince had some good  trailers/5th wheel recommendations he could make if anyone wants to go that direction.  We are not interested in that so I didn’t ask brands.

Good luck to everyone as they make their transitions.
If anyone finds that the place that Vince works at now does LD repairs let us all know.
Title: Re: The day has come, LD has closed
Post by: Chris Horst on June 28, 2022, 11:01:59 am
Does someone in LDOG have the last Lazy Daze sold and delivered?

Chris
Title: Re: The day has come, LD has closed
Post by: pdl2win on June 28, 2022, 11:06:42 am
Does someone in LDOG have the last Lazy Daze sold and delivered?

Chris

I reached out to Jay Krabbenhoft who recently picked up a 31'........wondered if he was the last buyer.......haven't heard back yet..
Title: Re: The day has come, LD has closed
Post by: Joan on June 28, 2022, 11:28:51 am
LD's closing its doors took longer than I expected, but even after 66 years (and a lot of highs and lows and various "eccentricities"!) of producing a high quality product with factory-direct, no gimmicks pricing and consistent customer support, the very small operation serving a limited market niche couldn't withstand the economic realities of demand, but no supply. Predictable, but a sad end to a unique and long-standing business model; for all of its quirks, Lazy Daze was a singular, quality-focused company. I never regretted my decision to order an LD, and I'm very glad to have been a part of it for almost 20 years.






Title: Re: The day has come, LD has closed
Post by: Joan on June 28, 2022, 11:33:11 am
Vince works here:

RV Repair RV Service RV Remodel Bus Conversion - Fontana CA (https://leisurecw.com/)

As far as I know, LCW does work on LDs, but I would check to make sure.
Title: Re: The day has come, LD has closed
Post by: Jim & Gayle on June 28, 2022, 11:46:00 am
Sorry to hear about this but as others have said this forum will be a benefit to owners.

Jim
Title: Re: The day has come, LD has closed
Post by: Gary & Esther on June 28, 2022, 11:53:11 am
Very sad indeed.
Our prayers go out to all the folks involved with the Mothership.

We just picked up our 2019 MB this past Saturday. Awesome coach.
Title: Re: The day has come, LD has closed
Post by: JohnDon on June 28, 2022, 01:08:08 pm
Wow, so sad. I've barely discovered LD's in the last year, got our used one in March of 2021 and have been learning things and taking trips. I find the community awesome and fascinating. Felt like we were a part of something very special and unique. We still are a part of it but to hear they are stopping for good really is very sad. We live near the mothership and have gone down to pick up small parts here and there. I love the look of the place, like a time capsule. I love the story of the brand and how small they are (real mom and pop feel) and how good the product is made and how they went against the grain to make something awesome that people really value. This is a total bummer man, I feel very sad for all involved.
Title: Re: The day has come, LD has closed
Post by: Howard A on June 28, 2022, 02:14:45 pm
This is awful.  Somehow I doubt Amazon Basics Class C Motorhomes will be comparable to LD.    :'(
Title: Re: The day has come, LD has closed
Post by: chip on June 28, 2022, 02:18:36 pm
We are grateful to Todd, Steve, Vicki and the others at LD that built and provided excellent after the sale support for our 2005 RK.   Especially thankful that the team completed our 2022 MB before closing the factory.  We took delivery May 19th and are very pleased with the build quality.
Title: Re: The day has come, LD has closed
Post by: HiLola on June 28, 2022, 02:41:37 pm
Aw, you must have the very last LD then!
Title: Re: The day has come, LD has closed
Post by: brewersarcade on June 28, 2022, 02:44:44 pm
We are grateful to Todd, Steve, Vicki and the others at LD that built and provided excellent after the sale support for our 2005 RK.   Especially thankful that the team completed our 2022 MB before closing the factory.  We took delivery May 19th and are very pleased with the build quality.

Wow. Please share pictures!
Title: Re: The day has come, LD has closed
Post by: spartan11 on June 28, 2022, 03:53:40 pm
I feel fortunate to have had the support I obtained from the Mothership as short and sweet as it has been.
 That support was unprecedented compared to the other RV’s I have owned and loved🌺❤️
  We are all still living the dream and I am thankful to the help I obtain through this site. Long Live this site 😉
Title: Re: The day has come, LD has closed
Post by: Milosdad on June 28, 2022, 05:04:30 pm

  I still haven't found one, vut I feel bad too. A business without an answering machine in 2022, gotta love them! My search continues, east coast lazy daze are sighted almost as often as 3 legged unicorns!
Title: Re: The day has come, LD has closed
Post by: KJWarner on June 28, 2022, 06:18:03 pm
I sent a quick email to Todd last night and the response I got back indicated that there may still be parts and service available. I wrote back seeking confirmation of this and thought people might be interested in his response, so with his blessing I have copied and pasted his response below.

Hi Ken,

Yes I have been preparing a parts and service network to help customers out since this sudden notice left many concerned about the future and their Lazy Daze.

Also Lazy Daze consignments. (Like to connect sellers with many of the customers that have unfortunately waited on the list for a long time) so all can enjoy Lazy Daze.

I am setting up a new phone line very soon. 909-627-0941 for direct access for Lazy Daze customers along with this email address.

Ldrvtodd@yahoo.com

Most of you know and trust me to do what I can to help in any ways possible. I’ve been offered many lucrative job offers of late but would rather continue to help my many great friends/customers. Hopefully it works out for all.

Venmo, Apple Pay or PayPal now available.

Glad to help and thank you all for the many well wishes and concerns.

Be well.

Thanks
Todd

Title: Re: The day has come, LD has closed
Post by: HiLola on June 28, 2022, 06:44:22 pm
“Venmo, Apple Pay or PayPal now available“

Say what?  😆
Title: Re: The day has come, LD has closed
Post by: pdl2win on June 28, 2022, 06:52:58 pm
“Venmo, Apple Pay or PayPal now available“

Say what?  😆

I just came to after fainting after reading that earlier!  😂😂😂
Title: Re: The day has come, LD has closed
Post by: rvhiker22 on June 28, 2022, 10:20:51 pm
 "The day has come, LD has closed"

This is so sad.  I had emailed Todd very recently about planning to have some work done on my LD and asked him how far in advance I would need to schedule an appointment.  He replied four to six weeks.  I just went on the Lazy Daze web site and it is still there.

Monica
2017 LD
Title: Re: The day has come, LD has closed
Post by: Sasha on June 28, 2022, 10:40:08 pm
I feel bad for the future generations that they won’t be able to get and enjoy one. We have absolutely loved ours and feel the build quality and thought that goes into them is head and shoulders above that of other RVs. I hope that Todd and others form a new company and make something similar. Best,

Sasha
Title: Re: The day has come, LD has closed
Post by: Table 58 on June 29, 2022, 12:26:42 am
Wow.  I'm gutted by this news.  I hope everybody in Montclair lands on their feet. 

In 2017, after meticulously researching what our young family's RV purchase, we discovered Lazy Daze was just down the road a piece.  We popped in, met Todd, sat in the floor model, kicked the tires.  At that point my wife and I just knew this was the one for us.  It's been treating us well ever since with trips up and down the coast, even into Mexico.  I plan to stay active on this board and build upon this wonderful knowledge base.
Title: Re: The day has come, LD has closed
Post by: squeakytiki on June 29, 2022, 12:42:42 am
I'm sad that I never got to experience the time capsule that is a visit to the factory in person.  It was always on my 'to do' list. I'm hoping if they come back as a repair facility they don't update too much of the front office.
Title: Re: The day has come, LD has closed
Post by: HiLola on June 29, 2022, 09:00:07 am
I'm sad that I never got to experience the time capsule that is a visit to the factory in person.  It was always on my 'to do' list. I'm hoping if they come back as a repair facility they don't update too much of the front office.

I think I only made it to the factory three times, the first time around 1999 or 2000. I don’t think it changed at all on any subsequent trips so, assuming they stay open for repairs, you probably don’t need to worry about that!  😉


Title: Re: The day has come, LD has closed
Post by: Ed & Margee on June 29, 2022, 09:12:42 am
So who got the Last Daze?
And how about the next person on the list!  Now we’re talking about my luck.   In this instance, it would be much better for my mental health to not know. 😂
Title: Re: The day has come, LD has closed
Post by: Sarz272000 on June 29, 2022, 10:39:11 am
There has been many late model LD for sale past couple days if anyone interested.  Never saw that before.  Looks like some are getting out while the getting is good.  Hopefully they will not regret it later.

Ron
Title: Re: The day has come, LD has closed
Post by: cli288 on June 29, 2022, 10:41:47 am
I did not check onto this site for a couple of days. I was really shocked by this sad news. Words just cannot reflect my feelings.  There is no more "mothership". I hope we as a group can and will stick together as we as owners need even more help from each other on these well built quality motorhomes. They are part of our lives.
Title: Re: The day has come, LD has closed
Post by: Lazy Bones on June 29, 2022, 11:09:08 am
"A business without an answering machine in 2022, gotta love them!"

 :D  Yes, it's a very exclusive club! Reminds me of my Brother, owner/operator of a framing shop. Customers galore but they were unable to leave a message. It's unknown how much business he lost over the years but his work was in high demand and he was always busy, just like Lazy Daze.
Title: Re: The day has come, LD has closed
Post by: RonB on June 29, 2022, 02:01:12 pm
A Note From RonB  as the moderator.  These two threads were about the same topic, so I have merged them into one. It looks like the system has interleaved the messages by time, so some of the comments and answers may not appear to be related correctly.  A sad time in the history of Lazy Daze.  Ron
Title: Re: The day has come, LD has closed
Post by: majortom on June 29, 2022, 03:09:14 pm
Incredibly sad news, been reading the thread this last couple of days and just crazy how the community is taking it as so am I.

I do wonder if we should start to publish out the owners manuals somewhere since in the past the mother ship asked to not do so since they sell them. But without them I hope the next owners that need them won't be left stranded.
Title: Re: The day has come, LD has closed
Post by: pdl2win on June 29, 2022, 03:12:31 pm
Incredibly sad news, been reading the thread this last couple of days and just crazy how the community is taking it as so am I.

I do wonder if we should start to publish out the owners manuals somewhere since in the past the mother ship asked to not do so since they sell them. But without them I hope the next owners that need them won't be left stranded.

That's a great idea/question!!
Title: Re: The day has come, LD has closed
Post by: Kent Heckethorn on June 29, 2022, 03:51:25 pm
Hi Folks,
It may be a good idea to take a deep breath for a moment. Todd has stated that he will remain in contact with LD owners and support and direct owner needs as they are needed.

Moving away from the Lazy Daze ethics is not a direction that I prefer to make. LD manuals are protected by copyright and  as such remain the property of Lazy Daze Motorhome Company. Moving away from the perspective of LD copyright protection has never been the direction the LDOF group has ever endorsed and it is certainly not what the Mothership encourages. Until they say otherwise, I will respect the decision they have made in the past.

So for myself, I will do what I can as a Lazy Daze owner to provide as much support and details as is practical. Snippets of LD Manual data is fine as far as I know. But wholesale copyright infringement is unacceptable in my view.

Many here understand how LD has protected its copyrighted material and out of respect for one of the finest Class C manufacturers who have always given their all to original owners and second or third owners one may want to continue this long honored tradition.

Lazy Daze has only now opened up to us about the recent closing. I’ll respect them for that and not pick their bones and cast them to the wind.

Respectfully, Kent
Title: Re: The day has come, LD has closed
Post by: Dave Katleman on June 29, 2022, 03:56:55 pm
I agree Kent, we should hear about Todd’s transition plan first, he may have that covered, or would give us the green light on copies of Manuals if need be.
Title: Re: The day has come, LD has closed
Post by: rich on June 29, 2022, 03:57:16 pm
Agree Kent. 

Let's give the people who have had their work lives affected some time to collect their thoughts and think about what comes next before declaring LD to be gone forever.

I can see lots of possible outcomes, and all of them would be better for current LD owners than if everything just closes.  All would take time to sort out.

Rich
Title: Re: The day has come, LD has closed
Post by: Andy Baird on June 29, 2022, 10:40:51 pm
"LD manuals are protected by copyright and  as such remain the property of Lazy Daze Motorhome Company."

I agree. And I agree with waiting to see what Todd comes up with.

That said, I don't see anything wrong with asking permission to publish the manuals from whoever legally owns 
the copyrights. Whoever that is (probably Steve), they may be amenable, now that it presumably no longer matters to Lazy Daze. It'll probably be a while before the company's legal affairs are settled, and Steve is undoubtedly all wrapped up in that at the moment, but this is something to keep in mind. It can't hurt to ask.
Title: Re: The day has come, LD has closed
Post by: colddog on June 30, 2022, 01:54:49 pm
Over my short life, I have watched many iconic companies disappear.   TWA, Pan Am, Kmart, Montgomery Ward, and Sears, just to name a few.  Out of the ashes, something better will come I'm sure.  
I can assure you I have no regrets about buying and owning an LD.   We, Lizbeth and I, will continue to drive the wheels off of Baxter.  I have plans to leave a worn-out RV to my children and grandchildren.  <smile> let them figure out what to do with it .....

glen
Title: Re: The day has come, LD has closed
Post by: Tmagnus617 on June 30, 2022, 02:58:25 pm
As a new owner of a LD 26.6 MB this is disappointing - AND - this group is so deep and broad and so willing to share - it's gonna be ALL RIGHT!
Title: Re: The day has come, LD has closed
Post by: Mindispower on June 30, 2022, 04:08:58 pm
Lazy Daze Caravan Club  (From the Caravan Club Facebook page) (Thank you Mindispower for copying that message to here.)

Good Morning Lazy Daze Fam! I want to thank everyone for their patience while we’ve been sorting fact from fiction!
1) Yes, the Factory (aka Mother Ship) is closed. There is currently no plan to sell the company or re-open any time soon; if ever.
2) Todd will make himself available within the next few weeks (after a much deserved vacation) for anyone needing to purchase parts. Todd has agreed to remain our contact for parts and will be putting together a list of repair shops that will be able to service your Lazy Daze.
3) Todd’s phone number 909-627-0941 is not currently active but will be soon, so hang onto his number as previously posted. Also, he will be available via email after he returns from vacation. ldrvtodd@yahoo.com or ldrvtodd@gmail.com
4) The Lazy Daze Caravan Club will not be affected by the closure of the LD Factory. We will continue to have 9 Caravans a year and will maintain ownership of our Facebook group pages.
5) There will be no unauthorized sales of Lazy Daze hats, t-shirts, cups, decals, etc. The LDCC owns the rights to their own LLC and I am in the process of negotiation regarding producing additional items on behalf of the Club. No one else will be considered or given permission for such sales and will be dealt with in court if violations occur.
6) I have been in touch with the Admins and or Moderators of the Lazy Daze Owners Forum and the various Lazy Daze group pages and they have been updated. Please do not repeat or repost false information. Todd and I are available for questions and clarification.
7) Josh aka Josh Siever or AJ Josh Siever is not a representative of Lazy Daze or friends with any family member or official representative of the Mothership. He is just another Facebook page owner. His opinions on the matter are just that, his opinions.  Please ask Todd or myself if you have any questions or concerns regarding your LD. We are here to assist you!
I will continue to update the groups as the information is made available. Thanks for for patience and understanding and see you at next LDCC outing!
 ( edited by RonB)                                                                 Christine Nordstrom, Caravan Club Wagon Master.
Title: Re: The day has come, LD has closed
Post by: RonB on June 30, 2022, 05:42:50 pm
Those who wish to confirm this with the Caravan Club will need to be Facebook members.  RonB
Title: Re: The day has come, LD has closed
Post by: Scout on June 30, 2022, 07:05:41 pm
I was going to try to get on the list but a little late now!
Title: Re: The day has come, LD has closed
Post by: pdl2win on June 30, 2022, 10:20:59 pm
I was going to try to get on the list but a little late now!


They haven’t taken waiting list names in quite some time….
Title: Re: The day has come, LD has closed
Post by: Steve and Carol Crisp on July 01, 2022, 03:07:58 am
Wow, that is something!  We too figured it might play out this way.

We never got to buy a new one, but thanks to Ed and Carol Daniels, we bought their used 2000 MB in 2008 and made the swap at the Mother Ship when they picked up the first of their two new ones.  We took a one-way return trip across country to see if we liked RVing (drumroll, we did ;-), and then we got moved overseas for my work for the next 8 years.  So ThistleDewToo never really hit the road until 2017.

Currently, we are on our Alaska or Bust! 2022 Adventure, and I'm here to report that ThistleDewToo survived the occasionally smooth, but very often rattletrap bumpy Dempster Hwy and Inuvik-Tuktoyaktuk Hwy and got me out for a dip in the Arctic Ocean and a beautiful no-set sunset while camping on the "beach" (photo taken at 1:00 AM).  What a ride!  Sleeping across the Yukon River tonight, and driving the Top of the World Hwy tomorrow into Chicken or Tok, AK (we'll see how far we get).

I'm with so many of you in my belief that the repair and improvement brains are right here with this collective group, and I thank you all for indulging my questions whenever something comes up.  And a special shout out to the moderators for their civility and expertise, and for a great group of folks that never get snippy or even need to be moderated these days.  And a special place in my heart for Andy Baird who was moderator when we took the plunge.  Andy, we always give full credit when we show off the pantry cabinet you built and we copied ;-)

Sad about the passing of an industry "David" (vs all the Goliaths), arguably the creators of the first Class C motorhome, but so happy to be part of this family, and to see where this all goes in the future. 

We too wish Steve Newton all the best, as well as to Vince, Todd, Vicki, and the workers who built and repaired each LD!
Title: Re: The day has come, LD has closed
Post by: Terry Burnes on July 01, 2022, 10:01:15 am
All things must pass.

This has me reminiscing a bit. In 2003 we were planning for our retirement, which we hoped would include RV travel. We went to the giant Pleasanton RV show in northern California and spent an entire day there. In the end we walked back out to our VW camper, sat down inside and I said, "There's nothing there for us," though we had decided we liked the Class C approach best.

At home I got on what then amounted to the Web and searched for "best Class C motorhome." Up popped Lazy Daze and the precursor to this group. The next weekend we were on the road to the LD factory, where we met the Newtons, Steve and Ed. And of course saw the factory itself. My father at one point taught wood shop in my high school so I immediately felt at home. Sawdust and glue. We'd found what we were looking for.

We've had many visits since, to check in on the construction of our motorhome and then, over the years, any time we were in or near SoCal. It's always been like visiting family. Sometimes there was a purpose, like some service work, often it was nothing but a visit, saying hi, sitting in a floor model, reassuring ourselves that LD was still there. Sometimes we'd encounter indifference or crankiness, other times we'd end up having a long chat, occasionally with Steve, my favorite kind of person, not unlike my gruff but genuine father.

When we ordered our motorhome it was right on the cusp of flat screen television. I didn't want the old CRT that LD then included but was wary of asking for something else. But I did. I was careful to admit I was asking a big favor, made it clear I was happy to pay for the extra work and that I wanted the benefit of whatever solution Steve might come up with. He growled a bit but agreed to give it a shot. Months later when we picked up the motorhome and Steve learned we were there he was anxious to greet us and show us what he'd come up with. It was clear he'd gone to great lengths to figure out a solution and was proud of what they'd done. And to this day we benefit from that help. So beneath the gruffness a good soul, focused on work, not a bunch of happy talk.

Then of course Ed Newton. I'll never forget on one of those early visits standing in the showroom with him, going over the list of options I'd decided to order. As we went down the list Ed made an argument against almost every one of them. When does a "dealership" do that? We ordered most of them anyway, but over time I've come to understand that Ed was largely right. Stuff that sounds appealing when you're in the thrall of initial enthusiasm often later subsides into superfluousness.

I'm actually glad things are ending this way. For us personally we've managed over the past few years to get our LD prepared for the next half of its life with great help from the factory. Roof resealed, end caps resealed and, just this past spring, all four large windows replaced, since some were starting to fog and also to verify no water intrusion so far.

But most of all I'm happy not to watch the takeover of LD by some hotshot new ownership intent on remaking it into a "modern" company with modern methods of building motorhomes. The methods that had us once meeting friends at Pismo Beach to see their new SOB, only to be told that their TV had fallen off the wall on their maiden voyage to camp. It would be sort of like watching you're recently widowed mother start an affair with some charlatan interested in her money more than her, hoping things would turn out well for her but knowing they wouldn't.

My guess is that the LD land will be sold, the factory scraped and condos will rise in its place. And I will still pass by there occasionally and think of what used to go on there: something clearly unique and irreplaceable that will always be treasured by those of us who benefited from that.
Title: Re: The day has come, LD has closed
Post by: Frank S on July 01, 2022, 11:51:12 am
I agree that the very valuable real estate will be cashed in, anything on the ground will be quickly and easily scraped off,  and some sort of housing will rise from there rumble.   It will all be gone except for a hand full of pictures of what once was.  The existing LDs will be carefully maintained and rebuilt over the years as necessary.   I can picture them running down the road 50 years from now although the cost of gas could become an issue for the long distance traveler if it stays relatively high as the EVs take over.    Frank
Title: Re: The day has come, LD has closed
Post by: 1999islandbed on July 01, 2022, 03:39:55 pm
I agree that this it is good to go out while still on top. It would forever tarnish the legacy of LazyDaze hand built quality if new owners were to take over and cut costs in the name of profit and time saved. One just has to look at the past great company names no longer in business or bought out and used in name only. Take for example Black and Decker tools. They used to be one of the best electric power tools made in the USA. Solid aluminum cased power tools built to last a century. Made in many ways better then the power tools of today. Now Black and Decker is the cheapest of cheap imported entry level tools you can get and throw away quality. It is sad although if it were my pride and joy business, unless I could find someone that would take the same pride in quality that I did I would rather close it down  and retire too.
Title: Re: The day has come, LD has closed
Post by: Lazy Bones on July 02, 2022, 05:02:31 pm
"We are grateful to Todd, Steve, Vicki and the others at LD..."

Don't forget Grumpy Old Ed (if you've ever had the opportunity to meet him). He was the Senior Partner and the start of it all. Never before seen an owner denigrate his own product!   :o
Title: Re: The day has come, LD has closed
Post by: Chris Horst on July 02, 2022, 05:20:04 pm
And here  is Ed Newton in 2007

Title: Re: The day has come, LD has closed
Post by: pdl2win on July 02, 2022, 05:26:21 pm
Now that it's closed for production, we'll wait for the owner of the last rig off the production line to share their experiences!  He's promised a write-up soon!!
Title: Re: The day has come, LD has closed
Post by: Kent Heckethorn on July 02, 2022, 08:58:00 pm
My dear Father loved RV’s. He had several Class A’s, truck campers and Travel Trailers.

He passed before I purchased our RB so he never had the opportunity to see it. I’m not certain if he even knew about this Southern California gem. He would have loved the quality build of a Lazy Daze. He was a very wise man.

Kent
Title: Re: The day has come, LD has closed
Post by: Andy Baird on July 02, 2022, 09:23:52 pm
"And here  is Ed Newton in 2007"

Note the belt and suspenders.
Title: Re: The day has come, LD has closed
Post by: HiLola on July 02, 2022, 11:04:33 pm
"And here  is Ed Newton in 2007"

Note the belt and suspenders.


My kinda guy!
Title: Re: The day has come, LD has closed
Post by: John DaCrema on July 03, 2022, 12:49:38 am
I’m sure the comments about “Lake Newton” bothered him but God Bless him. He made a lot of people happy. And every time I made the comment I did salute his efforts. Now having owned a “upscale” class A I really like how he built my 26.5 MB.  I wish he could have continued any one of the 33 ford or Chevy super Cs or the class A.  There is a special sause in every one of the rigs that came out of that shop. Thanks DR. Newton. 
Title: Re: The day has come, LD has closed
Post by: Dave Katleman on July 03, 2022, 02:25:05 am
Website is gone, that didn’t take long.

Should we buy “lazy daze.com”, to avoid it being bought by someone unsavory, like a flipper?
I’d chip in.
Title: Re: The day has come, LD has closed
Post by: pdl2win on July 03, 2022, 02:27:32 am
Website is gone, that didn’t take long.

Should we buy “lazy daze.com”, to avoid it being bought by someone unsavory, like a flipper?
I’d chip in.

I saw that too, glad I printed up a few of the pages the other day
Title: Re: The day has come, LD has closed
Post by: Don Malpas on July 03, 2022, 08:20:22 am
Talked with a Sportsmobile owner. [Class B] The factory can not get Transits from Ford. None. There is a two-year wait to get the MB chassis.
Title: Re: The day has come, LD has closed
Post by: HiLola on July 03, 2022, 08:41:49 am
Website is gone, that didn’t take long.

Should we buy “lazy daze.com”, to avoid it being bought by someone unsavory, like a flipper?
I’d chip in.

Yikes!
Title: Re: The day has come, LD has closed
Post by: debinvenice on July 03, 2022, 09:08:36 am
Website is gone, that didn’t take long.

Should we buy “lazy daze.com”, to avoid it being bought by someone unsavory, like a flipper?
I’d chip in.

You can still use the wayback machine to visit the last and older versions of the site.

https://web.archive.org/web/20220330035819/http://www.lazydaze.com/

Title: Re: The day has come, LD has closed
Post by: ChrisB on July 03, 2022, 09:57:13 am
Morning, as a proud owner of a 94 Chevy Daze I have been affected by the closing of the Mothership.  I am in disbelief-sad.
Every time we take a camping trip along the Southern California coast other campers invariably stop at our rig ask what year she is, make a comment about Lazy Daze RV’s.

I think of the customer service, my interactions with Vince and how dedicated he was keeping our rig working correctly.. I understand Todd was also very professional… so customer service was not an issue.

The product Lazy Daze RV’s is the Gold Standard in the RV business, I don’t think there is a better Class C built.
So what happened?
Covid, supply chain issues, CA State Environmental issues, taxes, not enough skilled employees, no customers for new rigs, high gasoline prices? 

 I watched a YouTube the other day, someone  was @ the Mothership - there was nothing, no products, parts, etc.. the closing of LD has been in the works for at least a year if not longer.
Someone mentioned that the building was antiquated, LD didn’t adapt, no slides?  I suppose these are also things to consider but I think of Airstream… they were able to continue. 

I am struggling with the Why?  I am certain the list is long…. [political comment removed by moderator - politics are not permitted on LDO]

The LD Community is amazing-this web site alone is fantastic!!  Again, our family has had formative, fun experiences in our Daze, this will continue but I am numb that such a great company has closed.

I need advice on a new furnace, I think Larry you provided me with this info but I can not put my hands on it. 

Blessing to all,
Time to WAX the Daze!!
Chris
Title: Re: The day has come, LD has closed
Post by: Larry W on July 03, 2022, 02:01:14 pm
The product Lazy Daze RV’s is the Gold Standard in the RV business, I don’t think there is a better Class C built.
So what happened?

The supply of cutaways was reduced after the 2008 recession, and Ford never reopened the closed production lines.
The big RV companies and U-Haul have priority, leaving few or no E450 cutaways available for the smaller RV manufacturers. The supply chain problems caused by Covid have made the situation worse.
With Steve getting older and not interested in developing a different chassis again, with no heir apparent, it was time to cut their losses and close down. This was an predicted event, we knew it was going to happen.

It will be interesting to see what Todd develops, having access to repair parts for keeping our orphaned rigs alive could get tricky.

Larry



Title: Re: The day has come, LD has closed
Post by: RonB on July 03, 2022, 02:19:53 pm
Hi ChrisB;  Lack of buildable cutaway chassis from Ford is what did the company in.  That's it.    Nothing to build on!
 There were many people in the queue, many trying just to get on the list. Many like me, wanting to upgrade to a newer model.  All of us prepared to pay for the new motorhome.  The lack of other parts in the RV pipeline certainly would have complicated things, but weren't an issue without chassis'.  The new models were up to date. Didn't have residential refrigerators (what a dumb idea!). Some buyers don't want slideouts! The look and feel of quality in a new motorhome is hard to define. But Lazy Daze had it.
   My parents had four new Born Free motorhomes, among other brands, and they would have practically 'given' them to me, when they were trading up to newer. But high a quality as it was reputed to have, certainly over some other brands, I watched them struggle with many manufacturing defects (unrelated to standard appliance issues) after the sales.  I bought a Lazy Daze.   RonB
Title: Re: The day has come, LD has closed
Post by: Andy Baird on July 03, 2022, 02:35:58 pm
"I am struggling with the Why?"

As Larry and Ron pointed out, Lazy Daze was simply unable to get E450 cutaway chassis from Ford. Demand has outstripped supply, and Ford is favoring its larger customers.

A friend has suggested that LD should've pivoted years ago to lightweight rigs built on Transit chassis, since the industry trend is pretty clearly in that direction. I can see some sense in that. But as Don pointed out, cutaway Transit chassis are now also in short supply. (That goes for Transit vans as well; I've heard that new ones are selling for as much as $15,000 above list price!) So even if Lazy Daze had made the switch, they'd still be in the same position now.

The bottom line is that's a bad time to be a small-volume RV maker that is dependent upon cutaway chassis from a big automaker.
Title: Re: The day has come, LD has closed
Post by: HiLola on July 03, 2022, 05:56:57 pm
From RVTravel.com.
Title: Re: The day has come, LD has closed
Post by: mrfixit454 on July 03, 2022, 08:02:49 pm
So are manufacturers like Forest River, Jayco, Coachman, Nexus, Winnebago etc. getting these chassis over Lazy Daze because they buy more volume?
Title: Re: The day has come, LD has closed
Post by: Gary_n_Stacy_MB2001 on July 03, 2022, 09:42:06 pm
Wow, there goes plan B. We're the original owners of our 2001 and have a deposit on a Sportsmobile class B build that keeps getting pushed out, now out to 2023. At some point I thought I could eat the Sportsmobile deposit and put a deposit down on another Lazy Daze. Sounds like Lazy Daze isn't able to move product out the door any easier than Sportsmobile.

In the meantime... Still enjoying our 2001 MB.
Title: Re: The day has come, LD has closed
Post by: Andy Baird on July 03, 2022, 10:37:29 pm
"So are manufacturers like Forest River, Jayco, Coachman, Nexus, Winnebago etc. getting these chassis over Lazy Daze because they buy more volume?"

I don’t have numbers, but I assume so. Look at it this way: Lazy Daze built 200 coaches a year at their peak, and were down to probably a couple dozen a year recently. A company like Fleetwood builds tens of thousands of coaches a year. Whom do you think Ford is going to pay more attention to?
Title: Re: The day has come, LD has closed
Post by: majortom on July 05, 2022, 10:18:50 am
I would have thought the mothership would have started building pull trailer like it did one time before. Can't imagine pull trailers are having too much of a hard time finding a "chassis" although other parts are all taken up as well, such an uphill battle....
Title: Re: The day has come, LD has closed
Post by: Dave Katleman on July 05, 2022, 11:58:00 am
Todd is reaching out to folks on the list, bless his heart.  Here is the text I received today:

Hi Dave, this is Todd from what was Lazy Daze which has shut down permanently and you were on the list for a while for 24 twin king and since you’re on the list I have somebody is selling their 2018 thought you might be interested? I’ve attached the information if you want to call her. You better move fast if you want because they’re hard to come by and there are no more lease days available new since we are permanently closed. So please let me know if you’re interested or not or give her a call. Sorry for the bad news I hope this works out for you. Thank you Todd

To which I replied:

Hi Todd, thanks for reaching out.  I took your email update earlier this year to heart and purchased a used 2017 TK back in March, as a hedge against what happened last month.  In Yellowstone right now with said TK.

Thank you for your efforts over the years, really appreciate what you have done for Lazy Daze folks!
Title: Re: The day has come, LD has closed
Post by: Howard A on July 05, 2022, 04:23:29 pm
I'm no Elon Musk but there ARE alternatives they could have gone with (eg see attached mock up)  (I'm available for hire btw)



The supply of cutaways was reduced after the 2008 recession, and Ford never reopened the closed production lines.
The big RV companies and U-Haul have priority, leaving few or no E450 cutaways available for the smaller RV manufacturers. The supply chain problems caused by Covid have made the situation worse.
With Steve getting older and not interested in developing a different chassis again, with no heir apparent, it was time to cut their losses and close down. This was an predicted event, we knew it was going to happen.

It will be interesting to see what Todd develops, having access to repair parts for keeping our orphaned rigs alive could get tricky.

Larry




Hi ChrisB;  Lack of buildable cutaway chassis from Ford is what did the company in.  That's it.    Nothing to build on!
 There were many people in the queue, many trying just to get on the list. Many like me, wanting to upgrade to a newer model.  All of us prepared to pay for the new motorhome.  The lack of other parts in the RV pipeline certainly would have complicated things, but weren't an issue without chassis.  The new models were up to date. Didn't have residential refrigerators (what a dumb idea!). Some buyers don't want slideouts! The look and feel of quality in a new motorhome is hard to define. But Lazy Daze had it.
   My parents had four new Born Free motorhomes, among other brands, and they would have practically 'given' them to me, when they were trading up to newer. But high a quality as it was reputed to have, certainly over some other brands, I watched them struggle with many manufacturing defects (unrelated to standard appliance issues) after the sales.  I bought a Lazy Daze.   RonB
Title: Re: The day has come, LD has closed
Post by: HiLola on July 05, 2022, 05:13:57 pm
I like the high clearance.  Is it 4WD?
Title: Re: The day has come, LD has closed
Post by: Dave Katleman on July 05, 2022, 07:46:09 pm
The supply of cutaways was reduced after the 2008 recession, and Ford never reopened the closed production lines.
The big RV companies and U-Haul have priority, leaving few or no E450 cutaways available for the smaller RV manufacturers. The supply chain problems caused by Covid have made the situation worse.
Kinda short sighted by Ford, not the keeping production lines closed but prioritizing larger customers.  Better to keep smaller customers fully supplied as the larger customers can absorb a couple less cut sways a year.

By keeping more of the small customers solvent, means you’ll have a larger market coming out of a downturn or crisis.

Oh well
Title: Re: The day has come, LD has closed
Post by: RonB on July 05, 2022, 07:57:14 pm
Short term profit vs long range planning.  Who knows if Ford chassis will even be around in a few years. 
   Maybe I'll find a Fuso diesel chassis,     Used Mitsubishi Fuso Cab Chassis trucks for sale | Machinio (https://www.machinio.com/mitsubishi-fuso/cab-chassis-trucks#quickview/69281932)    ,  electric 'hybrid it', and build my own. With the Lazy Daze Logo and traditional paint pattern.   Then again, find a used class 'C' of some other brand and fix it up until it is 'good enough'.   Nexus comes to mind.  I hear the depreciation is much worse on those others, might be able to pick  up a 2014 pretty cheap.     RonB
Title: Re: The day has come, LD has closed
Post by: Kent Heckethorn on July 05, 2022, 08:23:06 pm
Ron,

I can see you now. Ran into a hand made Class C on a Fuso chassis in Yosemite a couple of years ago. Not a Lazy Daze but quite compact.

Here are pics of the beautiful hand crafted wonder.

Kent
Title: Re: The day has come, LD has closed
Post by: HiLola on July 05, 2022, 09:42:14 pm
Funny. Is that a corrugated roof I see?
Title: Re: The day has come, LD has closed
Post by: Kent Heckethorn on July 05, 2022, 11:14:52 pm
Greg,

Yes indeed it is a corrugated roof. There is also a small awning that opens above the door as it is opened. No sagging fabric there.

Even has solar to boot.

Kent
Title: Re: The day has come, LD has closed
Post by: JonS on July 06, 2022, 07:11:49 am
Comes complete with an outside thermometer by the door.

Jon
Title: Re: The day has come, LD has closed
Post by: Ken and Joyce on July 06, 2022, 08:10:26 am
I have a question for the lawyer types in the group: could the company information on LDs be required to be made public under the "Right to Repair" laws? (say, for instance, how to manufacture the end caps) The background on this comes from my being an amateur astronomer and a brand of telescope (Meade) went bankrupt and apparently sold. The company that bought it (Orion, I think) is not repairing broken scopes or supplying proprietary hardware or updating "broken" proprietary  software. There is a growing movement to possibly sue to get this information under Right to Repair.  This topic just came up on those forums. I think you can see where my mind has wandered. I have absolutely no knowledge of the law itself or how it could/should be used. Just wandering if it is in any way applicable here.
Ken
Admins feel free to delete if too off topic
Title: Re: The day has come, LD has closed
Post by: LAZYSLOUWHO on July 07, 2022, 10:05:42 am
Todd is reaching out to folks on the list, bless his heart.  Here is the text I received today:

Hi Dave, this is Todd from what was Lazy Daze which has shut down permanently and you were on the list for a while for 24 twin king and since you’re on the list I have somebody is selling their 2018 thought you might be interested? I’ve attached the information if you want to call her. You better move fast if you want because they’re hard to come by and there are no more lease days available new since we are permanently closed. So please let me know if you’re interested or not or give her a call. Sorry for the bad news I hope this works out for you. Thank you Todd

To which I replied:

Hi Todd, thanks for reaching out.  I took your email update earlier this year to heart and purchased a used 2017 TK back in March, as a hedge against what happened last month.  In Yellowstone right now with said TK.

Thank you for your efforts over the years, really appreciate what you have done for Lazy Daze folks!

This is my 2018 Lazy Daze noted above, just to clear up any possible confusion. I hope today's price reduction (classifieds) will help those who were waitlisted.
Title: Re: The day has come, LD has closed
Post by: Jane on July 07, 2022, 07:08:41 pm
So are manufacturers like Forest River, Jayco, Coachman, Nexus, Winnebago etc. getting these chassis over Lazy Daze because they buy more volume?

We started looking at other brands a couple months ago suspecting that new LDs would not be made anymore.

The big companies are getting new Ford Chassis but they have been trickling in this year  (better now than earlier this year but I don’t think at their old numbers yet). 

I saw a post by an RV buyer who got delivered ended a Ford 350 chassis instead of the Ford 450 it was ordered with.  He was reminded the contract said the manufacture could swap out with other components as needed.  It was around a 25’ RV, the guy (i think a first time RV buyer)  decided it was not a big deal to have the smaller engine for his size RV.  I would have passed. 

We went by a Ford dealer a month ago to check on the towable Broncos that are now being delivered. A huge lot with hardly any cars for sale - didn’t even look like a dealership (maybe 20 cars with 500 empty spots).
Shows supply line issues are still a big problem.

Todd had mentioned (talked to him just before the shutdown), even if they got the chassis, there are still issues getting the other components to build RVs.

A side note, we had heard that Born Free was a quality brand when we first started looking in mid 2010s.  Last month we checked out a used one just to see quality.  We were not Impressed at all.  I think their reputation was based on them doing custom builds (they would make all kind of changes).  Looking at quality of basic cabinetry and other components, we took them off our list of brands to consider, neither of us were impressed.
Title: Re: The day has come, LD has closed
Post by: Aad Rommelse on July 08, 2022, 05:15:10 pm
Since no more Lazy Daze motorhomes are being built, what does this do to the used unit suggested price lists?

Aad
Title: Re: The day has come, LD has closed
Post by: Andy Baird on July 08, 2022, 08:26:26 pm
"what does this do to the used unit suggested price lists?"

That list was always a very rough estimate, based on a limited number of asking prices (not selling prices) that were extrapolated to fill in many, many missing data points. What will happen to used LD asking prices in the future remains to be seen. They could go up because of scarcity, or down because it's now an orphaned product. Ask again in a couple of years when there's some new data.
Title: Re: The day has come, LD has closed
Post by: Frank S on July 08, 2022, 08:54:21 pm
Prices will rise and likely remain higher than comparable class Cs.  However, the LD fan club is a small one and the membership will fade along with enthusiasm for the brand.  10 years out...   I think prices for well preserved specimens will remain on the high side.  20 years out....   Lazy Daze will be a collectors item and some will still be well maintained in good condition.   However, most will have passed to the other side.  30 years out....   a small number of collector type units still on the road.  The cost of gas has made them impractical for trips of any length.  And any left will slowly fade away.....     Frank
Title: Re: The day has come, LD has closed
Post by: Dave Katleman on July 08, 2022, 11:48:04 pm
30 years out....   a small number of collector type units still on the road.  The cost of gas has made them impractical for trips of any length.  And any left will slowly fade away....
By then, electric RVs will dominate the road, Lazy Daze will be a oddity.
Title: Re: The day has come, LD has closed
Post by: HiLola on July 09, 2022, 12:30:47 pm
By then, electric RVs will dominate the road, Lazy Daze will be a oddity.

That's ok, by then I'll be an oddity too!   :D
Title: Re: The day has come, LD has closed
Post by: colddog on July 10, 2022, 10:26:34 am
30 years from now I'll be 105.   I'm guessing nobody will be happy to see me driving down the road in anything but my walker.

glen
Title: Re: The day has come, LD has closed
Post by: philjlaw on July 15, 2022, 07:27:16 pm
Just to add an update for anyone who needs parts....

I emailed Todd earlier today.   Todd Miller <ldrvtodd@yahoo.com>

He responded immediately and said in part "All is good and yes I will be helping all with anything needed in the future. I have access to parts and service for anything."

I bought a couple skirt knobs for the rear tire covers. Haven't lost any and hopefully never do, but thought it would be a good time to get a couple just in case...




Title: Re: The day has come, LD has closed
Post by: Michelle C on July 15, 2022, 09:57:09 pm
One or more of the messages of this topic have been moved to Lazy Daze General Info & Discussions (https://www.lazydazeowners.com/index.php?board=3.0) - https://www.lazydazeowners.com/index.php?topic=37994.0 to split out the "Josh the Flipper" discussion
Title: Re: The day has come, LD has closed
Post by: HiLola on July 16, 2022, 10:38:40 am
Just to add an update for anyone who needs parts....

I emailed Todd earlier today.   Todd Miller <ldrvtodd@yahoo.com>

He responded immediately and said in part "All is good and yes I will be helping all with anything needed in the future. I have access to parts and service for anything."

I bought a couple skirt knobs for the rear tire covers. Haven't lost any and hopefully never do, but thought it would be a good time to get a couple just in case...

Good to know, thanks!  I wonder if end caps will be available?
Title: Re: The day has come, LD has closed
Post by: seesaw60 on July 18, 2022, 02:29:38 pm
I'm listed as a newbie but I'm the original owner of a 2000 TK and have no complaints - still love it.  I lived in NE when I bought it and never saw any on the road - just decided it was the best choice after researching class C rvs.  It still is.  So many of the newest rvs of all classes have serious problems just off the assembly lines.  The big manufacturers are rushing them out the door with little QC.  Sales are slowing down now with higher interest rates.  I remember my trip to the factory and dealing with Ed, who talked us out of several add-ons.  His right foot was in a cast as he took us on a trial ride - drove with his left.  Swerved all around to show us how stable it was!  Then turned it over to me.  We sent the deposit a month later.  Now living in NV so we see lots more LDs but don't get to the factory easily.  I hope to keep this one until I have to stop driving it.  This group matters!!
Title: Re: The day has come, LD has closed
Post by: rich on July 22, 2022, 03:02:30 pm
Just to add an update for anyone who needs parts....

I emailed Todd earlier today.   Todd Miller <ldrvtodd@yahoo.com>

He responded immediately and said in part "All is good and yes I will be helping all with anything needed in the future. I have access to parts and service for anything."

I bought a couple skirt knobs for the rear tire covers. Haven't lost any and hopefully never do, but thought it would be a good time to get a couple just in case...

I bought a replacement bath skylight for my MB from Todd, and it arrived today.  I contacted him via email, paid via ApplePay (he accepts other forms too).   He kept me informed and was easy to deal with.

IMO, this is a valuable service, particularly for parts (like the bath skylight) that aren't easily available elsewhere. 

Rich



Title: Re: The day has come, LD has closed
Post by: majortom on July 22, 2022, 03:41:10 pm
paid via ApplePay (he accepts other forms too).

Now this is a huge upgrade!! I never got around getting a fire exit cover since the othership required me to mail a check and then they would mail me the part... Could never get around to do that...
Title: Re: The day has come, LD has closed
Post by: Linda B on July 23, 2022, 11:28:43 am
Just to add an update for anyone who needs parts....

I emailed Todd earlier today.   Todd Miller <ldrvtodd@yahoo.com>

He responded immediately and said in part "All is good and yes I will be helping all with anything needed in the future. I have access to parts and service for anything."


Maybe a mod can put Todd's email and phone on the home page to assist those who don't already have his contact info.
Title: Re: The day has come, LD has closed
Post by: Blueox25 on July 23, 2022, 02:01:10 pm
I wonder if Todd would be willing to set up a little consulting business to help owners with technical issues and finding replacement parts.  He knows the answers to many of our questions and is an encyclopedia of parts sources.  He recently helped me find the source for an obscure item.

Harold
Title: Re: The day has come, LD has closed
Post by: Rick Akin on July 23, 2022, 03:55:13 pm
Earlier discussion about the Ford Chassis being hard to get, I would bet the large metal sheets they use on those roofs which they imported from overseas would have been near impossible to get over the last year.
Title: Re: The day has come, LD has closed
Post by: Andy Baird on July 23, 2022, 06:18:46 pm
Does Todd have a web page?
Title: Re: The day has come, LD has closed
Post by: RonB on July 23, 2022, 07:30:25 pm
I'm not sure what Todd has done in that arena yet. The info so far:  "Todd Miller <ldrvtodd@yahoo.com>  "   An earlier answer from Todd to KJWarner in this thread:  reply # 48
   " Hi Ken,
    Yes I have been preparing a parts and service network to help customers out since this sudden notice left many concerned about the future and their Lazy Daze.
Also Lazy Daze consignments. (Like to connect sellers with many of the customers that have unfortunately waited on the list for a long time) so all can enjoy Lazy Daze.
I am setting up a new phone line very soon. 909-627-0941 for direct access for Lazy Daze customers along with this email address.     Ldrvtodd@yahoo.com   
    Most of you know and trust me to do what I can to help in any ways possible. I’ve been offered many lucrative job offers of late but would rather continue to help my many great friends/customers. Hopefully it works out for all.    Venmo, Apple Pay or PayPal now available.    
   Glad to help and thank you all for the many well wishes and concerns.  Be well.   Thanks    Todd "            RonB
Title: Re: The day has come, LD has closed
Post by: Mindispower on July 24, 2022, 08:53:32 am
https://www.rvtravel.com/end-line-lazy-daze-kind-rv-builder-rvt-1062b/
Title: Re: The day has come, LD has closed
Post by: Ed & Margee on July 24, 2022, 10:50:40 am
This thoughtful article seems to suggest that there’s much more to the reasons behind the closing of our much loved Lazy Daze Factory.   Todd appears to know the rest of the situation but would need permission from the owners to share that information.   Nevertheless, the closure still stings many of us.
Title: Re: The day has come, LD has closed
Post by: Kamani74 on July 24, 2022, 11:32:55 am

Yes, I read n article that the company has closed for good. So sad! Where can we get parts??

Calling Mothership this morning. Busy signal all 3 lines.
Has something happened or ???

Thank you,
Gary
Title: Re: The day has come, LD has closed
Post by: Kamani74 on July 24, 2022, 11:35:40 am
https://www.rvtravel.com/end-line-lazy-daze-kind-rv-builder-rvt-1062b/
Here is a link to an article
Title: Re: The day has come, LD has closed
Post by: Andy Baird on July 24, 2022, 02:12:17 pm
Read the post immediately before yours. :-)
Title: Re: The day has come, LD has closed
Post by: RonB on July 24, 2022, 02:39:09 pm
The writer of this article just doesn't know about buying chassis.  No chassis, no building of anything!   I'm sure that Steve did his best, but the competition for any available chassis was dominated by financial power houses like Thor, Fleetwood and Winnebago. The 'Gorillas' on the block.   The quality of those that were built with the power brake assist and power steering hose bursting issues, may just be the tip of That 'iceberg'.
   Comments like " the employees should have bought the company". yeah sure. all 15 of them!
   Fixed costs like property tax, utilities, cleaning services ( is trash service a utility?) insurance, payroll, contributions to disability, unemployment insurance, medical and other government fees all add up. I think the projected continuing shortages and quality of all the items needed to build a motorhome were factors in the decision.  
   When you order one to be built for you to your expectations: model, color, options and commit.  How would you feel a year later at delivery if LD charged you an extra 20%, 30%, 40% or even higher price?  But LD's costs might be rising during the build.  We don't know how many of Lazy Daze's regular vendors were able to supply parts to LD, or how many of them were 'teetering on the brink'.  Substitutions of alternate components might really affect production adversely. Think of trying to fit a different refrigerator or water heater into an already partially built motorhome.
    I don't think that Lazy Daze had too much of a profit buffer over the cost to build. Not like a 'dealer' markup!
   Trying to plan even a year ahead of delivery and presenting a definite fixed price for the customer just wasn't going to work.  All Steve could have done is build random models of what the customers might want and 'auction' them off when they eventually were finished. That is essentially what happens at other manufacturers right now. Because of scale, those manufacturers can do that in weeks, not years. And still many sit on the lots unsold, and might even be sold at an 'overall' loss.  Just my thoughts.       RonB
Title: Re: The day has come, LD has closed
Post by: Michelle C on July 24, 2022, 06:13:42 pm
[merged 2 additional identical topics into this one - Michelle]
Title: Re: The day has come, LD has closed
Post by: Chris Horst on July 29, 2022, 01:57:27 pm
Pretty much a rehash. 

Lazy Daze RV Builder Surprisingly Shuts Down (https://www.motor1.com/news/600676/lazy-daze-rv-builder-closes/)

Chris
Title: Re: The day has come, LD has closed
Post by: Garry Foster on August 10, 2022, 06:48:59 pm
“Venmo, Apple Pay or PayPal now available“

Say what?  😆
Sounds like to little to late..
Sadly I never got an LD and two years of outside storage got to my Class C this spring.
the storage was 1000 miles away.

Garry
Title: Re: The day has come, LD has closed
Post by: Dave Katleman on August 18, 2022, 06:30:08 pm
The old Dodge house car ended up at the hall of fame in Elkhart IN

LazyDazeCaravanClub on Instagram: "Our beloved #LazyDazeHouseCar has arrived... (https://www.instagram.com/p/ChYFwvNPHpM/?igshid=MDJmNzVkMjY=)
Title: Re: The day has come, LD has closed
Post by: Andy Baird on August 19, 2022, 05:00:17 pm
Nice to know it found a good home. It deserves to be there!
Title: Re: The day has come, LD has closed
Post by: HiLola on August 19, 2022, 07:10:56 pm
The link doesn’t work for me but I am not on Instagram.
Title: Re: The day has come, LD has closed
Post by: Rick Akin on August 19, 2022, 08:45:27 pm
The link doesn’t work for me but I am not on Instagram.
Try this Facebook page.

Redirecting... (https://www.facebook.com/media/set/?vanity=lazydazecaravanclub&set=a.539504494642359)
Title: Re: The day has come, LD has closed
Post by: Rick Akin on August 20, 2022, 07:16:03 am
From the Laze Daze Caravan Facebook Page.
Title: Re: The day has come, LD has closed
Post by: Rick Akin on August 20, 2022, 07:19:47 am
Interior Photos plus additional.
Title: Re: The day has come, LD has closed
Post by: Kent Heckethorn on August 20, 2022, 11:43:25 am
So many of us here have stepped inside this LD over the years. Walking through its doors is like Mr. Peabody’s Way Back Machine. It’s amazing how far they took the design.

Long Live Lazy Daze.

Kent
Title: Re: The day has come, LD has closed
Post by: Andy Baird on August 20, 2022, 12:44:38 pm
You can see at a glance that the Newtons' flair for interior design was present from the very beginning. ;-)
Title: Re: The day has come, LD has closed
Post by: HiLola on August 20, 2022, 01:38:18 pm
You can see at a glance that the Newtons' flair for interior design was present from the very beginning. ;-)

Funny, Andy!  I couldn't find any songs that mentioned High School Wood Shop Teacher so this will have to do:

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=iXt1NIYPNjA
Title: Re: The day has come, LD has closed
Post by: Rick Akin on August 20, 2022, 04:25:26 pm
Besides the Olive Green Oven and Drapes, my favorite is the Dodge Gear Shift on the dash.  Pure first class for it's day.
Title: Re: The day has come, LD has closed
Post by: JohnR on September 01, 2022, 04:19:48 pm
Tomorrow I’m having Bigfoot levelers (http://www.thebigfootleveler.com/) installed at the factory in White Pigeon, MI and tonight I’m camped out behind one of their buildings with 30A service.  Being that Elkhart is only 20 minutes away, I thought I’d venture over to the RV/MH Hall of Fame & Museum (https://www.rvmhhalloffame.org/) and check it out.

I was a bit dismayed when I pulled into the museum parking lot to see the 1967 Lazy Daze HouseCar unceremoniously parked outside alongside the building.  I asked the guy at the info desk why that was and was told that it had been setup inside but for “some reason” it was moved outside and because it was locked, I wouldn’t be able to look inside.  The museum guy either couldn’t or wouldn’t elaborate further.  I also looked for the LD founders on the museum’s Hall of Fame wall where there were 427 inductees (I didn’t count, I looked that up) and didn’t find any.  I’m thinking there may be a backstory here that I’m unaware of.

The rest of the museum was interesting.  I especially enjoyed seeing the early 20’s and 30’s HouseCars.  Here are a few pics I took.

- John

Title: Re: The day has come, LD has closed
Post by: Dave Katleman on September 01, 2022, 04:40:39 pm
I also looked for the LD founders on the museum’s Hall of Fame wall where there were 427 inductees (I didn’t count, I looked that up) and didn’t find any.  I’m thinking there may be a backstory here that I’m unaware of.
I thought that was very suspicious when I visited in 2020.

Maybe it’s the make up of their board, mostly RV dealers?

Or just no one ever nominated Laze Daze (https://www.rvmhhalloffame.org/how-to-nominate/) folks?
Title: Re: The day has come, LD has closed
Post by: H. T. P. on September 01, 2022, 05:43:17 pm
Noticed the Newtons weren't there when we visited it in 2019.  Possibly required a big donation to get in their HOF. 

Hope they eventually display the House Car.  It most certainly belongs among their exhibits.  Great place to stop by though.
Title: Re: The day has come, LD has closed
Post by: Andy Baird on September 14, 2022, 11:28:11 am
I just noticed that the Lazy Daze Pocket Guide's "More Information" page (https://www.lazydazeowners.com/pocketguide/info.htm) still lists the company's address, email, and phone numbers. Perhaps the moderators could correct that, with a note that the company has closed.
Title: Re: The day has come, LD has closed
Post by: RonB on September 14, 2022, 02:44:40 pm
Hi Andy;  I don't see any way to edit or change anything in the Pocket Guide.  The Techsnoz information also has been long gone and I haven't seen Terry in quite a while.  Perhaps the 'Administrators' can assist with that.   RonB
Title: Re: The day has come, LD has closed
Post by: Andy Baird on September 14, 2022, 10:43:18 pm
The Pocket Guide is hosted as part of LDOG, so I'm sure Michelle knows how to edit it.
Title: Re: The day has come, LD has closed
Post by: RonB on September 15, 2022, 03:01:33 am
Hi Andy, my thoughts also.  I'll message her to inquire.  RonB
Title: Re: The day has come, LD has closed
Post by: Andy Baird on September 15, 2022, 12:02:45 pm
Maybe replace the Lazy Daze contact info with "Lazy Daze closed its doors in late 2022. Replacement parts are available from Todd Miller: <ldrvtodd@yahoo.com> or ‭(909) 627-0941‬."
Title: Re: The day has come, LD has closed
Post by: galelynn2 on October 23, 2022, 11:38:56 am
Haven't seen any new info on the closing of Lazy Daze in the past month or so.  Is there any current news on what's happening to the factory and all it's LD parts laying around on shelves?  Any current contact info for Todd and is he available?  Can he access parts?  Last time I talked with Todd he met me at the door (showroom closed) and sold me a paint touch up kit. He told me people call him almost daily wanting to buy a used LD.  What's the latest?
Gale   2008 IB
Title: Re: The day has come, LD has closed
Post by: Larry W on October 23, 2022, 12:31:08 pm
Haven't seen any new info on the closing of Lazy Daze in the past month or so.  Is there any current news on what's happening to the factory and all it's LD parts laying around on shelves?  Any current contact info for Todd and is he available?  Can he access parts?  Last time I talked with Todd he met me at the door (showroom closed) and sold me a paint touch up kit. He told me people call him almost daily wanting to buy a used LD.  What's the latest?
Gale   2008 IB

See the previous message for Todd's contact info. The shop is empty.
Nothing else has changed, the factory has closed and Elvis is still dead.

Larry
Title: Re: The day has come, LD has closed
Post by: HiLola on October 23, 2022, 04:15:48 pm
Nothing else has changed, the factory has closed and Elvis is still dead.

Larry, I beg to differ.  Ran into Elvis in downtown Tehachapi a couple days ago!
Title: Re: The day has come, LD has closed
Post by: Keith S on October 23, 2022, 04:18:22 pm
Does anyone have suggestions for LD items I should try to buy to have on hand? Door handles? Knobs?
Title: Re: The day has come, LD has closed
Post by: RonB on October 23, 2022, 06:02:42 pm
Hi Keith; If you are trying to stockpile items for your LD, generally almost everything they used was purchased somewhere else. Those suppliers are mostly still there, have presences on the internet and are more than willing to take your money.  Problems happen when items age out and are replaced with newer designs and the manufacturer quits supplying older parts. Or the manufacturer goes out of business. Such as the recent enquiries about coach door locks, track insulation, marker lights, proper colored 'T' molding, Tinted window glass, wall switches. Things that have been modernized. Incandescent light fixtures and even florescent have almost disappeared. 
   What has been lost are outside wall sections, compartment doors, end caps and paint services to make them fit in.  Rear wheel cover flaps, Tire cover housings, front end caps, inner doors, drawers and wall panels because of design elements unique to Lazy Daze.  Decals and name logo's for instance.  RonB
Title: Re: The day has come, LD has closed
Post by: Don Malpas on October 24, 2022, 08:34:59 am
   "What has been lost are outside wall sections"
Yeah an accident would be the end of the line without those parts. Maybe I will part mine out
Title: Re: The day has come, LD has closed
Post by: Michelle C on December 13, 2022, 07:53:13 pm
The Pocket Guide is hosted as part of LDOG, so I'm sure Michelle knows how to edit it.

Andy - I'd missed this when you posted it.  RonB alerted me to the need to edit the Pocket Guide.

Steve's taken care of it (Steve the admin and my better half, not Steve Newton  ;)  )

You'll note the LDO site disclaimer has been updated as well.

Michelle