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Topic: Considerng a nw LD 31' Island Bed (Read 1321 times) previous topic - next topic
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Re: Considerng a nw LD 31' Island Bed
Reply #25
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, as a 31' owner, I respectfully and politely disagree with your assertion that capacity is a "problem" with the 31'. Considering the straightforward publicity that the 31er's CCCs gets on this forum, I think it's safe to say that most 31' owners are very much aware of carrying capacity before they order one or buy one used. As long as owners are aware of capacity, then it becomes a fact of ownership and not a problem. Each Lazy Daze floorplan has its disadvantages. Carrying capacity is the 31's. Holding tank size is the 24's, etc. We decided that the disadvantage of minimum carrying capacity was offset by having a fixed bed and a spacious lounge area with an entertainment unit.

Chris
Formerly: 2002 30' IB

Re: Considerng a nw LD 31' Island Bed
Reply #26
The "1 size fits all" and "take it or leave" philosphies of this company have dissuaded from me considering LD for our next new RV purchase.

In the kitchen department, solid surface countertops with flush mount sink covers should at least be an option. Ditto for a flush mount gas range with a glass folding cover. And all units should have a pantry. I'm finding entry level RVs with these 3 items in what turns out to be a beautiful kitchen.

There should at least be an option to upgrade to a comfortable mattress in the BOC. A stock LD has no comfortable bedding in my opinion. Sleeping on anything with seams or cracks isn't going to be fun. Most folks probably do this on their own after purchase.

Additional options could include the ability to swap out a sofa for a work area or permanent Extra long twin size bed.

The roof should be designed so it doesn't need to be resealed inside of 10 years. Lake Newton should be put into permanent drought. Other manufacturers are offering 10-12 year warranties on their roof.

The paint needs to be upgraded so it doesn't fade so badly.

The plastic used on the steps and other exterior components should be upgraded to something stronger and more resistant to cracking.

Upgraded electrical options should be available from the factory for those who want them. One shouldn't have to pay 110K for an RV and then spend years and thousands of dollars upgrading it.

A standard LD "off the shelf" is a nice (albeit expensive) RV.... I'm just sayin....

Todd

Most of my desired upgrades/options wouldn't require any re-engineering or major increase in weight. I'm not asking for slides!
Todd (and Steve)
'17 Winnebago Minnie Winnie and '13 Honda CRV
(Former '99 RB owners from 2012-2016)

Re: Considerng a nw LD 31' Island Bed
Reply #27
As long as owners are aware of capacity ... it becomes a fact of ownership and not a problem ... (any) disadvantage of minimum carrying capacity is offset by a fixed bed and a spacious lounge area ... Chris

Our 31TB is far superior to our previous 26MB.  We agree with Chris !

Re: Considerng a nw LD 31' Island Bed
Reply #28
"Each Lazy Daze floorplan has its disadvantages. Carrying capacity is the 31's. Holding tank size is the 24's"
---
It's true that 24' TK models had an 18-gallon black tank capacity, but the FL and the FD always had more, and with the 2010 24' models, the black tank capacity went to 28 gallons and the grey to 32 for all 24' rigs. (The propane capacity increased, too.)

2003 TK has a new home

Re: Considerng a nw LD 31' Island Bed
Reply #29
I know someone with a 30' IB. They were so overloaded it was amazing. As mentioned, it becomes the owners responsibility
to learn the capacity of their rig. In my experience, a lot of RV's are overweight, especially when more than one person is involved. The large amount of carrying space in some of these rigs just lends to abuse and the manufacturers don't seem to acknowledge this in a meaningful way when trying to sell you the thing. If they said, a six pack and a bag of chips is all you can safely carry once you put all the other things in... how many would they actually sell then?
Jota
96 23.5 FL

 
Re: Considerng a nw LD 31' Island Bed
Reply #30
"The "1 size fits all" and "take it or leave" philosphies of this company have dissuaded from me considering LD for our next new RV purchase."
----
It should be understood and accepted that Lazy Daze offers a factory-direct product, not a custom product; it is not the RV manufacturing equivalent of Burger King. I can understand why people might want to be able to choose from a long list of options and "extras", but although some of us have been able to have "minor" pre-delivery changes made, LD's business model is not likely to change to accommodate those who want to have a customized/personalized rig at delivery. The size, scope, and assembly modes of the manufacturing location, facility, and personnel don't lend themselves to producing customized rigs; if a person wishes to pick "one from column A, two from column B..." past a limited point of available options, buying a product from a different company is in that person's future.

Certainly, no RV is perfect; every one of them has "warts" (and many have a LOT of "warts") and/or issues and/or items that could be functionally and/or cosmetically improved, and LD is no exception. People choose LDs over another class C for a variety of reasons; if the total LD "package" doesn't work for a potential buyer, another manufacturer and dealer will be very happy to take one's money.

As ever, YMMV.

Joan
2003 TK has a new home

Re: Considerng a nw LD 31' Island Bed
Reply #31
"The "1 size fits all" and "take it or leave" philosphies of this company have dissuaded from me considering LD for our next new RV purchase. "

Well, I hear you, but be careful what you wish for. A longtime LD owner and contributor to the old forum decided he wanted some customization as well. He researched the heck out of competing Class C manufacturers, visited multiple factories, and was convinced he found a manufacturer of similar quality and greater flexibility. Within a year of taking delivery (and selling his LD) he was ready to throw in the towel over manufacturing deficiencies, and said he had made a mistake. Of course, YMMV, but just sayin'. 🤔
-- Jon


--
(Former) ‘06 TK “Albatross.” And (former) Vespa 250.   Alas, no more; both are gone.😕 Great memories remain! 😄

Re: Considerng a nw LD 31' Island Bed
Reply #32
"The "1 size fits all" and "take it or leave" philosphies of this company have dissuaded from me considering LD for our next new RV purchase."
----
"...another manufacturer and dealer will be very happy to take one's money..."


To paraphrase Bill Murray from Meatballs..."Even if the Mothership cast aside their traditional business model...

Even if the Mothership offered five choices of countertops and a spacious pantry as an option...

Even if the Mothership offered a durable paint job that could last to Saturn and back...

Even if the Mothership would accommodate the varied desires for upgrades and "improvements" that would suit a handful of buyers...Even if....."

You'd still have a Lazy Daze but at what cost? Even here on our beloved LDO, some balk at the sticker price of a standard equipped LD. Start counting your pennies and that once $100,000 beauty will quickly climb to $120,000 $150,000...$200,000 anyone?

One look at a so called customized Nexus and you will see the true cost of your wish list.

LD includes several standard equipment items that SOB manufactures tag on added costs to include.

Then there is the potential to add failures to our Wondercoach due to the less tried and true options. Ouch!

Many people accept LD for what it is. Some jump ship only to return after the bitter taste of an SOB becomes too much to bare.

Some may agree that some LD warts are unbearable while others embrace them as part of its charm. I've not met anyone in the past year that has said "what a POS your LD is". The opposite has been the case 100% of the time.

Just sayin'

Kent
2015 27' RB "MissB.Haven"

Re: Considerng a nw LD 31' Island Bed
Reply #33
I did my homework when looking for an RV. After joining this group it took me over a year to find the right one for me.
I got lucky, I bought it from the original owners who took very good care of it. Something I've since learned is a common trait of LD owners. There are so many great things about the way LD does things, there are also some frustrations, less than most RV companies but still.

As a comparison Born Free now offers their units on a truck chassis. Maybe they have seen the end of the E series chassis
sooner than LD, but they have prepared for the inevitable while LD still hasn't even said what they will be doing, at least I haven't heard.
I know LD got burned with the Kodiak chassis, that would have been a huge improvement for the 31'. Hopefully they find something that will continue the quality we all have come to expect and bring them forward into the future.
Jota
96 23.5 FL

Re: Considerng a nw LD 31' Island Bed
Reply #34
I see too many happy campers in SOB, often with 10-20 year old rigs, to drink the LD koolaid that everything else out there is garbage. The company depends on people like you to sustain it's business model. Most of my suggestions wouldn't cost more money. The company is too lazy to change, whoever owns it has cleaned up and is riding a wave. The owners  of LD couldn't care less about any of us or how we use their product. Todd
Todd (and Steve)
'17 Winnebago Minnie Winnie and '13 Honda CRV
(Former '99 RB owners from 2012-2016)

Re: Considerng a nw LD 31' Island Bed
Reply #35
I see too many happy campers in SOB, often with 10-20 year old rigs, to drink the LD koolaid that everything else out there is garbage. The company depends on people like you to sustain it's business model. Most of my suggestions wouldn't cost more money. The company is too lazy to change, whoever owns it has cleaned up and is riding a wave. The owners  of LD couldn't care less about any of us or how we use their product. Todd

Todd, you're certainly entitled to your own opinions, but why the attitude? I don't recall anyone in any of the multiple discussions on this and related topics state that "everything else out there is garbage". There's no need to be rude or snarky or insulting; if buying a(nother) LD doesn't fit your RV lifestyle plans, I hope you find something that does.

Good luck to you.
2003 TK has a new home

Re: Considerng a nw LD 31' Island Bed
Reply #36
Life is too short and too enjoyable to live out with the sour taste of anger eating at your gut.

Re: Considerng a nw LD 31' Island Bed
Reply #37
Hey there Todd,

Pardon me, but I just revisited your four years of posts. Your enthusiasm for LD has been significant and all your posts and input have been very encouraging. Thanks for that. I have always enjoyed your side of LD life.

There comes a time in all of our lives where we must make changes and readjust to things. Your interest in other RV manufacturers is understandable. You have done well by your Bessie and someone will be lucky to carry on providing the same level of care you have provided her. Well done.

You of course know, by now, that LDO members are a proud breed. We are also a caring group that wish only the best for our fellow enthusiasts. No matter the coach they steer down the road.

Yes, there are plenty of dependable coach manufactures, but many of us have staked a claim on LD. That's just us.

Understand that we do...understand.

Stay proud of your choices and enjoy life as we here encourage one another to do the same.

All our best to your choice of RV. Ya never know...Not all life's decisions are final. Wiggle room is always a good idea.

Later, friend.

Kent
2015 27' RB "MissB.Haven"

Re: Considerng a nw LD 31' Island Bed
Reply #38
Flogging from Kent and JCT expected and taken. (Still red on the behind).😀
Todd (and Steve)
'17 Winnebago Minnie Winnie and '13 Honda CRV
(Former '99 RB owners from 2012-2016)

Re: Considerng a nw LD 31' Island Bed
Reply #39
I hope my observations and opinions didn't offend anyone. Our LD has given us a lot of joy. We bought a new Winnebago MW 31D today. We wish you all the best, this has been a great group. Our '99 RB is on RV Trader (over 50 photos). We will be bringing it to ppl (not sure which of the 3 locations) in Texas on consignment mid Nov if it doesn't sell soon.

Special thanks to Andy, Larry, Joan and Roger for all your support over the years.
Todd (and Steve)
'17 Winnebago Minnie Winnie and '13 Honda CRV
(Former '99 RB owners from 2012-2016)

Re: Considerng a nw LD 31' Island Bed
Reply #40
I hope my observations and opinions didn't offend anyone. Our LD has given us a lot of joy. We bought a new Winnebago MW 31D today. We wish you all the best, this has been a great group. Our '99 RB is on RV Trader (over 50 photos). We will be bringing it to ppl (not sure which of the 3 locations) in Texas on consignment mid Nov if it doesn't sell soon.

Special thanks to Andy, Larry, Joan and Roger for all your support over the years.

So the burning question is, does it have a slide?  ;D

Haven't known you long, Todd, but thanks for your insights and help as I continue my decision process. Best of luck and safe travels to ya'll!
Greg & Victoria
2017 Mid-Bath  “Nocona” towing a manual 2015 Forester
Previously a 1985 TK
SKP #61264

Re: Considerng a nw LD 31' Island Bed
Reply #41
So the burning question is, does it have a slide?  ;D

Haven't known you long, Todd, but thanks for your insights and help as I continue my decision process. Best of luck and safe travels to ya'll!

According to the website it has 3 slides. Wonder what the weight out the door is given that and a length of 32'9"?

https://winnebagoind.com/binaries/content/assets/brochures/2017/mw-2017-preview.01.pdf

Jim

Re: Considerng a nw LD 31' Island Bed
Reply #42
According to the website it has 3 slides. Wonder what the weight out the door is given that and a length of 32'9"?
https://winnebagoind.com/binaries/content/assets/brochures/2017/mw-2017-preview.01.pdf
What is Winnebago building these things out of?  Super-lightweight Unobtainium?
It's almost two feet longer than a 31' LD and has three slides.
How in the world can they do this and provide the needed structural strength, while keeping the CCC at reasonable level? 
Really, three slides?
I did notice that the Winnebago Factory specs forgot, as usual, to state the CCC.
Well, it will be interesting to see how rigs like this, built on a E450 chassis, age.

One question Todd, did you have it weighted before writing the check?
Inquiring minds need to know.

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 #43
I hope my observations and opinions didn't offend anyone. Our LD has given us a lot of joy. We bought a new Winnebago MW 31D today.

Congratulations  on getting a new RV.   I'm sure you'll enjoy it.   No your observations and/opinions didn't offend me.  We are are free to look and observe - that's the joy of being human.

 BTW I have looked high and low for the Unloaded Vehicle Weight or the Wet Vehicle Weight or the Occupant and Cargo Carrying Capacity.   Todd if you have the numbers I'd be very interested in seeing them.
personal fine art photo stuff
TF Mack | Flickr
It's all good .......
2014 Twin King

Re: Considerng a nw LD 31' Island Bed
Reply #44
I think the 31D model has "only" two slides, from the spec sheet. Still . . .
(Former) ‘06 TK “Albatross.” And (former) Vespa 250.   Alas, no more; both are gone.😕 Great memories remain! 😄

Re: Considerng a nw LD 31' Island Bed
Reply #45
I think the 31D model has "only" two slides, from the spec sheet. Still . . .


Looks like the bed squirts straight out the back, too.  I guess that would be considered a slide-out, yah?

Re: Considerng a nw LD 31' Island Bed
Reply #46

Looks like the bed squirts straight out the back, too.  I guess that would be considered a slide-out, yah?

Yup, I missed that puppy!
(Former) ‘06 TK “Albatross.” And (former) Vespa 250.   Alas, no more; both are gone.😕 Great memories remain! 😄

Re: Considerng a nw LD 31' Island Bed
Reply #47
We have a 2006  31' Anniversary Edition we have had for about 8 years.  The manual awning would be impossible for me to extend without my husband's help.  Love the separate shower and separate bathroom.  What is nice about the shower is it is a one piece unit without seams while other brands need to be caulked continually.  Our end caps on the exterior have cracks in the back which we need to address sometime soon.  Do not have a black tank flush system.  Do need to replace the gate valve but looks pretty easy watching various videos.  Our bedroom window just lost it's seal and is fogged.  After speaking with Vince it will cost around $1200 to replace at Mothership which is about 400 miles from us.  All in all we love it above other brands.  We also have a tow vehicle which has not caused problems with rig.
2006 31' IB Anniversary Edition; Tow 97' Wrangler

Re: Considerng a nw LD 31' Island Bed
Reply #48
What is Winnebago building these things out of?  Super-lightweight Unobtainium?
It's almost two feet longer than a 31' LD and has three slides.
How in the world can they do this and provide the needed structural strength, while keeping the CCC at reasonable level? 
Really, three slides?
I did notice that the Winnebago Factory specs forgot, as usual, to state the CCC.
Well, it will be interesting to see how rigs like this, built on a E450 chassis, age.

One question Todd, did you have it weighted before writing the check?
Inquiring minds need to know.

Larry

Ten days ago I sent an email to Winnebago asking about weights. Here is their response.

Winnebago Sales
1:24 PM (3 hours ago)
Reply
to me
Hello Jim,
 
Thank you for contacting Winnebago.
 
331D
 
GVWR-14,500
GCWR-22,000
 
Dry-11,638
Wet- 12,452
UVW-11,968
MAX CARGO-2500
 
Thank you,
 
Winnebago

Re: Considerng a nw LD 31' Island Bed
Reply #49
Following up on the above post from Jim & Gayle.

Lazy Daze 31   Island     Twin Bed

UVW       12,664  or 12,686
WWV       13,162 or 13,184
OCCC        1,836  or 1,814.

Just something to ponder.