Making a B+ or C Class more capable.

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The roll bars might save you, but the rest of the RV will be destroyed.
I know that's the point, but really, if you think you might get into a situation where you might need roll bars, then a
traditional RV is not for you.

Well dam, I was hoping for a vehicle I could really push it to the extreme four wheeling and if it did flip I could just right it and drive it on home and buff out the scratches.

I just think the fact they installed roll bars is a testament to the quality of the brand. I have seen enough pics of crashed RVs on the road and they look like the first little pig's home after the wolf visited. Anyone in the back would likely die. My plan is to be able to road trip to BC Canada this summer and Alaska next with my wife and I taking turns driving and sleeping. It would be nice to know that anyone sleeping in the back is liable to be dead if a crash were to happen.

 

[iggi]

"It would be nice to know that anyone sleeping in the back is liable to be dead if a crash were to happen."

If you're looking for a crash resistant camper then you should consider an ambulance.

 

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"It would be nice to know that anyone sleeping in the back is "not" liable to be dead if a crash were to happen."

If you're looking for a crash resistant camper then you should consider an ambulance.

While that is impressive. I am not really planning on crashing or being broadsided. It is just nice to know that Born Free goes above and beyond the usual steps in quality.

A week ago I was still looking at vans either something like a B190 or Sportsmobile. The search led me to this Class B+/C RV. While I would like to fit it all in a van, Here is why I am likely to buy this 22 foot 10 foot high RV that won't be as nimble as a van.

We have 2 dogs and two cats and always have trouble finding someone to watch them. We spend $100+/day to get someone to pet sit. If we can bring our whole family with us basically the vacation is paying for itself. Our house is worth a potential good bit as a vacation rental for weeks or months at a time, if I can work out the logistics. Part of that is being able to take our animals with us. We might actually be able to make money while traveling to pay off the mortgage faster.

This unit is fully self contained with room to hold our whole family and one can sleep cook or clean while we roll to the next destination. It is still small enough to fit in any parking spot.

 

[rruff]

It is just nice to know that Born Free goes above and beyond the usual steps in quality.

I've heard they are just built better... won't shake apart on rough roads.

 

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Cutaway Chassis.

I have done a bit of research. The Born Free RV is a cutaway chassis. How does this affect the ability to add a lift package?

How does a lift affect highway driving and gas mileage?

 

[cabnetguy]

The cut away chassis will not hinder a lift kit. I have a 1994 E-350 U-Haul truck that I will be using Weldtec's lift kit on. They share the same front suspension as a standard van.

 

[jkam]

My Lazy Daze is listed as a 23.5 ft. model.
It’s just me, no wife, no pets and I fell like I have about the right amount of space, storage, water and holding tanks for me.
Before you commit to the little Born Free, consider something a bit bigger to give you and the others some room without being all jammed in.

There was a Born Free on an F 550 here for sale. Pricey, but truck chassis, factory 4x4 and under 30 ft.
If I had the money, I’d look at that.

 

[Deleted member 9101]

RV's are noisy on the highway, just wait till you get it on the trail, it'll sound like it's coming apart! Also, due to chassis flex check all seams when done to make sure you haven't popped a seam and a leak or structural damage has occurred....mmmmmm.....life off-road.

Thus why my travel trailers never leave the pavement...haha.

 

[Heading Out]

While that is impressive. I am not really planning on crashing or being broadsided. It is just nice to know that Born Free goes above and beyond the usual steps in quality.

Does anyone plan on getting crashing or getting broadsided?

I didn't think so, But it happens....

 

[Photobug]

My Lazy Daze is listed as a 23.5 ft. model.
It’s just me, no wife, no pets and I fell like I have about the right amount of space, storage, water and holding tanks for me.
Before you commit to the little Born Free, consider something a bit bigger to give you and the others some room without being all jammed in.

There was a Born Free on an F 550 here for sale. Pricey, but truck chassis, factory 4x4 and under 30 ft.
If I had the money, I’d look at that.

We are not looking to full time. Just likely a week or two or maybe a month at a time. The class C is already a step up from what i had planned. I realize already if I put a bike or motorcycle on the front or back I will have trouble parking everywhere. I am getting a good deal so if it ends up too big or too small I should be able to flip it.

 

[Photobug]

Does anyone plan on getting crashing or getting broadsided?

I didn't think so, But it happens....

Did you get broadsided?

 

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Am i right in assuming a full conversion to a lifted RV (lift, gear ratio and bigger tires), will cost me 30% fuel economy?

 

[rruff]

Am i right in assuming a full conversion to a lifted RV (lift, gear ratio and bigger tires), will cost me 30% fuel economy?

Who said that? I'd say <10% hit unless you do something silly (like a massive lift, or put on gnarly mud tires).

 

[Photobug]

Who said that? I'd say <10% hit unless you do something silly (like a massive lift, or put on gnarly mud tires).

I was reading Willywalderbeast's build thread. It is pretty extensive but I got the impression he got 13mpg on delivery and gets 10 now. He does have big tires and a 6" lift.

 

[68camaro]

Am i right in assuming a full conversion to a lifted RV (lift, gear ratio and bigger tires), will cost me 30% fuel economy?

I think my 4.5" lift and more aggressive tires and heavy duty bumper with winch cost me 15%.