Log In | Register
Skip to main content
Topic: Considerng a nw LD 31' Island Bed (Read 1323 times) previous topic - next topic
0 Members and 9 Guests are viewing this topic.
Considerng a nw LD 31' Island Bed
My wife and I are researching our first motor home, upgrading from a toy hauler. We are fortunate that we live 20 miles from the LD factory. We have seen the 27' footers at the factory, we are waiting to see if LD can/will still build a new 31' Island Bed (waiting to hear back from them).

Are there any 31' owners out their that could provide some feedback on their experience with their rig; handling, any vibrations (I know they have to extend the chassis)?

I know LD keeps things simple/basic when it comes to design, Any feedback on only having a manual awning, it seems like all other manufacturers have gone to automatic awnings. I guess its one less thing to break.

No black tank flush, has this been an issue for anyone?

I really like what I see in the LD, just want to make sure it's the right rig; this is a major purchase and I don't want to make an expensive mistake. I also love what I'm seeing as it relates to the LD community, it looks like an awesome and loyal group of people.  I truly appreciate any advice or guidance you can provide.
Re: Considerng a nw LD 31' Island Bed
Reply #1 –
Fiamma offers an remote power unit for their awnings, if you need  it,

Adding flushers to the holding tanks isn't a big deal.  A DIY for some or a fairly simple job for a RV shop.
Holding tank flusher | Flickr

Yes, LD does like to keep it simple.

Happy hunting.
Larry
Larry
2003 23.5' Front Lounge, since new.  Previously 1983 22' Front Lounge.
Tow vehicles  2020 Jeep Wrangler Rubicon, 2001 Jeep Cherokee
Photo Collection: Lazy Daze
Re: Considerng a nw LD 31' Island Bed
Reply #2 –
Our last rig had an electric awning. It was very nice, I liked it a lot. The downside, in my opinion, it was very flimsy. Any breeze was a cause for concern. The lack of support poles seems to be the reason for this. But it sure was sweet to roll it out a couple of feet from the inside when it Elias raining to protect the step.

On the LD's Fiamma awning there is some good bracing, but it requires some effort to deploy and retract. I don't mind though, I prefer it.

Neither one is a slam dunk superior awning in my view. YMMV.
Paul
'92 Mid Bath
Re: Considerng a nw LD 31' Island Bed
Reply #3 –
Quote from: dshaffer1957  - 
My wife and I are researching our first motor home, upgrading from a toy hauler. We are fortunate that we live 20 miles from the LD factory. We have seen the 27' footers at the factory, we are waiting to see if LD can/will still build a new 31' Island Bed (waiting to hear back from them).

Are there any 31' owners out their that could provide some feedback on their experience with their rig; handling, any vibrations (I know they have to extend the chassis)?

I know LD keeps things simple/basic when it comes to design, Any feedback on only having a manual awning, it seems like all other manufacturers have gone to automatic awnings. I guess its one less thing to break.

No black tank flush, has this been an issue for anyone?

I really like what I see in the LD, just want to make sure it's the right rig; this is a major purchase and I don't want to make an expensive mistake. I also love what I'm seeing as it relates to the LD community, it looks like an awesome and loyal group of people.  I truly appreciate any advice or guidance you can provide.
We have 78,000 miles on our '02 31' and there never have been any handling or vibration issues. Sure, wind and big trucks will push it around a bit, but when you are driving a bread truck, one can expect it. Never needed built-in flushing device. I use a Hydroflush Amazon.com: Valterra F02-4100 45 Degree Hydroflush With Removable Anti-siphon... now and then and always rinse the black tank when emptying with a full toilet bowl or two of water. And yes, the awning is flimsy but it works and cranking it up and down takes only seconds.
Chris
As an Amazon Associate Lazy Daze Owners' Group earns from qualifying purchases.
Formerly: 2002 30' IB
Re: Considerng a nw LD 31' Island Bed
Reply #4 –
Well, let me chime in here along with Chris... I drive a 2004 30' IB and love it.
Right from day minus zero I knew that I did NOT want the el-cheapo box awning that L.D. installs as OEM. I'd heard too many horror stories about them.
I asked Steve to delete their awning because I wanted to install (after market) an manual A&E (Dometic). Steve asked me how long the new awning would be and I told him 20'. He said he would 'block' (reinforce) the mounting points, and he did. I have been and am now using the 20' A&E and find it to be reliable and easy to deploy. It spans almost the entire coach, from just behind the passenger door all the way to aft of the rear window.
In retrospect I should have asked L.D. to block the mid point so that I could have had a 'saddle' installed to help with sag. However, having said that, I have not had any problem with sagging in the middle of the span.
I have to keep a weather eye open because that large amount of cloth makes for a very fine sail.  ;)   :)
Steve S.
Lazy Bones & Cedar
2004 30'IB (Island Bed)
Yesterday is History, Tomorrow is a Mystery
Live for the day!
Re: Considerng a nw LD 31' Island Bed
Reply #5 –
Thank you all for your responses and input, I appreciate it. Now I just have to hope they can/will still build a 31' island bed. The sales rep I talked to at Lazy Daze seemed reluctant to want to build one.

Dan
Re: Considerng a nw LD 31' Island Bed
Reply #6 –
"The sales rep I talked to at Lazy Daze..."

Sales rep?? Really, a Sales rep., hmm are they changing their business structure???? Just exactly who was this mythical person?   :o
Steve S.
Lazy Bones & Cedar
2004 30'IB (Island Bed)
Yesterday is History, Tomorrow is a Mystery
Live for the day!
Re: Considerng a nw LD 31' Island Bed
Reply #7 –
I talked to factory today about a 31foot Island bed.  They upgraded to a six speed transmission so they have to re-engineer the chassis because the WB is extended to 211 inches.  It will take about three months.  They have no orders for the 31 footer so they have not yet started the engineering. Some other company does the engineering. I was very impressed with the gentleman on the phone. He was very knowledgeable and willing to help.

The wait for a new LD is about one year plus at least three more months for the 31 footer. Yikes!  The 24 and 27 foot chassis have the new engineered chassis completed.

The factory has two LD to view.  The 27 Mid Bath and 24 King Bed. We too are interested in the 31 Island Bed. We are hoping to stop by to see them on our next trip to the area.

Ron
Ron and Linda
Ada Michigan
Re: Considerng a nw LD 31' Island Bed
Reply #8 –
"They upgraded to a six speed transmission so they have to re-engineer the chassis because the WB is extended to 211 inches."
----
AFAIK, the wheel base on the 30'/31' has always been 211"; the frame rails of the stock 176" chassis (used for the 27') are outsourced to be cut and "spliced"/extended to accommodate the longer "box". 

This is a link to the spec sheet for the 2017 Ford cutaway chassis (E-350, E-450):

2017 E-Series Cutaway | View All Specifications | Ford.com

It may be that any "re-engineering" of the chassis frame is done to accommodate the larger size ("large capacity external fluid pump") of Ford's 6-speed Torq-Shift transmission and all the jiggering around of parts that would require.

???  Inquiring minds want to know!  ;)




2003 TK has a new home
Re: Considerng a nw LD 31' Island Bed
Reply #9 –
Quote from: JCT  - 
"They upgraded to a six speed transmission so they have to re-engineer the chassis "
----
It may be that any "re-engineering" of the chassis frame is done to accommodate the larger size ("large capacity external fluid pump") of Ford's 6-speed Torq-Shift transmission and all the jiggering around of parts that would require.

???  Inquiring minds want to know!  ;)

Yes we do!
Wonder what the six speed looks like, in comparison to the four and five speed models. It must be wider.
Interesting that Ford would go to the expense of changing the frame, or whatever needs changing, on such an old chassis, one that is supposed to be eliminated in the few few years.
Maybe there is more going on here than what meets the eye.
It will be interesting to get under one of these new rigs and see what has been changed, maybe at the Morro Bay GTG.
We almost always have one or more new rigs attend.

Larry
Larry
2003 23.5' Front Lounge, since new.  Previously 1983 22' Front Lounge.
Tow vehicles  2020 Jeep Wrangler Rubicon, 2001 Jeep Cherokee
Photo Collection: Lazy Daze
Re: Considerng a nw LD 31' Island Bed
Reply #10 –
"It will be interesting to get under one of these new rigs and see what has been changed, maybe at the Morro Bay GTG."
----
I'll bring my cardboard "slider" and join you!  ;)
2003 TK has a new home
Re: Considerng a nw LD 31' Island Bed
Reply #11 –
Quote from: JCT  - 
"It will be interesting to get under one of these new rigs and see what has been changed, maybe at the Morro Bay GTG."
----
I'll bring my cardboard "slider" and join you!  ;)

Poor new owner.    Comes to a gathering of LDers only to find out they like them only  for your 'body'.    
 :D  ;D  :D

personal fine art photo stuff
TF Mack | Flickr
It's all good .......
2014 Twin King
Re: Considerng a nw LD 31' Island Bed
Reply #12 –
Quote from: Larry Wade  - 
Maybe there is more going on here than what meets the eye.

T.R.A.N.S.I.T. ?

You can see the rapid technological changes occurring in passenger trucks & automobiles. Fleet operators demand a consistent platform that has wide, ongoing support.

If LD is getting the word that there may be a heavier chassis in the works that would support the 27' but not the 31', then that would perhaps shed some light.

The growth of the class B market is money being left on the table that LD could easily grab with a 20/22' model.
Re: Considerng a nw LD 31' Island Bed
Reply #14 –
The main problem I see in the 31' is capacity. There really isn't much room leftover weight wise when you fill up the tanks.
I'm of the opinion that most if not all 31' are overweight and that isn't a good place to start out.
Jota
96 23.5 FL
Re: Considerng a nw LD 31' Island Bed
Reply #15 –
And, I don't think I'd invest in any new RV using the E series chassis anymore.
If Lazy Daze drags their feet on implementing a new chassis, they will be left behind
even more than they already are with regard to keeping up with the industry.
Jota
96 23.5 FL
Re: Considerng a nw LD 31' Island Bed
Reply #16 –
"If Lazy Daze drags their feet on implementing a new chassis, they will be left behind even more than they already are with regard to keeping up with the industry."
----
By "keeping up", do you mean following the example of much of the RV manufacturing industry in spewing forth massive numbers of poorly-designed and engineered, sloppily and cheaply built, overweight products that undergo few, if any, quality control checks along the line?

"Change" is not necessarily "progress".

As ever, YMMV.

Joan
2003 TK has a new home
 
Re: Considerng a nw LD 31' Island Bed
Reply #17 –
By keeping up, I mean Lazy Daze being the small family run business that they are, which is a great thing BTW, doesn't have the resources or for that matter desire to make some changes that even us die hard LD owners wish they would do.
And when they finally implement some of those ideas, it's usually many years down the road.

I for one, like innovation and  changes for the better, if done well.

Lazy Daze can keep their core principals and still evolve into a better product with proper management.
Jota
96 23.5 FL
Re: Considerng a nw LD 31' Island Bed
Reply #18 –
"I'm of the opinion that most if not all 31' are overweight and that isn't a good place to start out."

If you do not own a 30/31' L.D. then you do not know whereof you speak. I am the original owner of a 2004 30'IB. Shortly after I took delivery I had Henderson's weigh my rig. It was well under limits. Since then I have had it weighed twice, both by Henderson's, and it has never been overweight. The prime object of traveling in an RV is to leave behind all the junk you have accumulated in your sticks&bricks home and go lightly down the road. My anvil and car jack do not travel with me!   ::)
Steve S.
Lazy Bones & Cedar
2004 30'IB (Island Bed)
Yesterday is History, Tomorrow is a Mystery
Live for the day!
Re: Considerng a nw LD 31' Island Bed
Reply #19 –
"And when they finally implement some of those ideas, it's usually many years down the road."

I don't think it took LD more than ten years, or so, to agree  that LED lighting wasn't just another passing fad. 😉

Ed
Re: Considerng a nw LD 31' Island Bed
Reply #20 –
Quote from: Jota  - 

"...Lazy Daze can keep their core principals and still evolve into a better product with proper management..."


"Maybe I'm crazy...maybe I'm blind"...sorry probably said that already.

How many RV's are there in the world that are not LD's? A lot, right? These are the ones, in my opinion, that would do well by bettering their core principals and product line.

LD has done right by me. No complaints.

Just sayin'

Kent




2015 27' RB "MissB.Haven"
Re: Considerng a nw LD 31' Island Bed
Reply #21 –
"I don't think I'd invest in any new RV using the E series chassis anymore."

I can understand this POV. I sure like the newer tech stuff, and that Sprinter chassis has perhaps more miles, certainly in more countries than the E or even F series will ever get. So, proven it is.

And, to spend in the neighborhood of $100,000 on an RV would require me to be abso-freaking-lutely certain I was in love with it.

I could go much lighter to get the higher tech chassis. BUT those being built are not yet approaching the problem in a way I appreciate.

I would NOT give up my LD windows, simplicity, quality. And I would probably not pay that kind of money for an RV unless I won the lottery, so I can't be happier with my old low tech Lazy Daze.

So I for one appreciate the LD approach to development, it stands the test of time .
Paul
'92 Mid Bath
Re: Considerng a nw LD 31' Island Bed
Reply #22 –
Quote from: Jota  - 
By keeping up, I mean Lazy Daze being the small family run business that they are, which is a great thing BTW, doesn't have the resources or for that matter desire to make some changes that even us die hard LD owners wish they would do.

Hello Jota.  First I'd like to say that when it comes to RV's, I'm a Certified Nobody.  Nevertheless DW and I are exceeding pleased with our 2009 LD (2nd owners), which is our first RV. 

If you have the time, I'd be very interested in hearing from you about the "changes that even die hard LD owners wish they would do."    Your insights might help us with some future changes and upgrades.  And thank you for taking the time to read my post.
Re: Considerng a nw LD 31' Island Bed
Reply #23 –
Quote from: Jota  - 
The main problem I see in the 31' is capacity. There really isn't much room leftover weight wise when you fill up the tanks.
I'm of the opinion that most if not all 31' are overweight and that isn't a good place to start out.


While many 31' owners are very conscientious about keeping their rigs from being overweight, a lot of owners do not do so.
How do I know?  There have been a lot of them my driveway over the last twenty years.
When someone backs their rig into our driveway, I can estimate the weight by watching how low the rear bumper sits and how badly it scrapes the pavement. Overweight rigs scrape, underweight one do not. I also have a hard time getting under overweight rigs.
FYI 31' models have the longest overhang of any of LD's floor plans.

I have emptied the bins of many 31' models and been amazed at how much heavy stuff some folks carry.
"They gave us all this cargo capacity so it must be OK to carry a lot of things" is the mentality.
Many times the owners are unaware of the weight problem and just need educating.
While we are at it, there are quite a few 27' models, and older 23.5' E350s, that are over the GVW or just at the limit too.
It's a problem many full timers have, especially the types who carry a good assortment of tools and supplies....or books.
We all need to periodically visit a weight station and make sure we are within the limits of the axles, no matter what floor plan we own.

The point is while most of us desire a fixed bed, there is a price to be paid for it. To build a 31' model, LD takes the longest E450 chassis available and extends it.  The weight of an additional 4' of coach and frame reduces the OCCC by 1100-lbs, a significant number, compared to the 27' models, going from 2900-lbs to 1800-lbs of OCCC. That's a huge reduction. Out of the remaining 1800-lbs, you must substrate the weight of the occupants, fresh water, food, personal items, supplies, any options, tow bar, etc.
Do the math, the weight adds up very quickly.  You can see why many 31' owners travel with minimal fresh water.
The CCC is even less on pre-2008 LDs. Previously, the GVW was 14,050 -lbs vs. the newer 14,500-lbs.

With a 31' model You also get about double the storage space, which leads a lot of folks into temptation and eventual trouble. Want to carry your golf clubs with you, just in case, no problem. Skis, yes, take them too. There is a lot of room to carry all your stuff.
To keep the weigh under control takes a lot of discipline.  A lot of folks don't have it, they want their stuff. It's a legitimate want.
The desire for a fixed bed and adequate CCC has driven a lot of previous LD owners into Class As and DPs, there comes a point where the E450 is inadequate.
LD knows this too. They have built three heavy duty 31' rigs through the years, the GP30, the E550 and the Kodiak. All three were never built in any number due to the chassis manufacturers discontinuing production. Can't blame LD for not trying.

If you want a 31' LD, that 's fine with me, just do it with your eyes open.

Larry

Larry
2003 23.5' Front Lounge, since new.  Previously 1983 22' Front Lounge.
Tow vehicles  2020 Jeep Wrangler Rubicon, 2001 Jeep Cherokee
Photo Collection: Lazy Daze
Re: Considerng a nw LD 31' Island Bed
Reply #24 –
Thanks for the info Larry.  LD 31 Queen Bed must be well built because it has no slides and is still approaching CCC limit! I am hoping to get to the factory to see one up close soon.  Love the style!

Ron
Ron and Linda
Ada Michigan