Four Winds and Freedom Elite

pdeter · 04-11-2016, 06:02 PM

I have been on this forum now for over a year and have learned many things from many people about RV'ing and the troubles/joys associated with this way of life or recreation. But, why is there so few posts associated specifically with the Four Winds or Freedom Elite Class C? Are they so well made that nobody has any complaints? I must say that I have had mine for 2 years and have only had two warranty issues. Everything else I have done has been for my/my wife's benefit at our request. That being said, one of the things I really like about this forum is the chance to share what has been done to our coaches. What others have done to their much bigger class A doesn't help me much with my class C. There has to be some out there that have come up with ingenious ways to improve storage and functionality. Come on Thor Class C'ers let's her them.

Here is a list of what I have done to my 2015 Freedom Elite 28H:
1. Had the vanity above the bathroom sink cut in half so I could get my big head over the sink and stop upsetting my dear wife with the messes being made while shaving.
2. Purchased OEM covers for the kitchen sink. Counter space is horrible in my coach and this plus a cover for the stove helped a lot.
3. Installed a TV bracket and cable outlet near the front door so we can move the bedroom TV outside.
4. Installed Big Foot automatic leveling system.
5. Had RV armor coating installed on the roof.
6. Installed a TPMS system.
7. Installed a Progressive Industries power management system.
8. Installed a sleep number mattress.
9. Replaced the shower head with a much better one but can't remember the name.
10. Installed a turbo wash system on the black water tank.
11. Installed a Safe-T-Plus steering stabilizer.

I think that is all for now. Hope to hear some good ideas that I can use.

JRS950 · 04-11-2016, 06:11 PM

We have the Four Wind equivalent of your motorhome, the 28Z. The upgrades you have done sound very interesting. Do you have any pictures? We have not done nearly as much as you. I am building a headboard that will double as a reflector to help keep the coach cool. Also built a cover for the stove that increases the counter space considerably. Working on cover for stairs to be used while traveling and camping to increase floor space and keep dog safe. More to come..

pdeter · 04-11-2016, 06:16 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by JRS950

We have the Four Wind equivalent of your motorhome, the 28Z. The upgrades you have done sound very interesting. Do you have any pictures? We have not done nearly as much as you. I am building a headboard that will double as a reflector to help keep the coach cool. Also built a cover for the stove that increases the counter space considerably. Working on cover for stairs to be used while traveling and camping to increase floor space and keep dog safe. More to come..

I'm currently at work at sea and do not have any photos with me. If you are interested in something specific I would be happy to post some when I get home in about a week and a half.

Markb · 04-13-2016, 12:09 AM

I have read a number of post about noise in the class a axis/vegas. I would like to hear how the class c's compare. To put out that kind of cash for a coach and feel you need to add dynamat to kill some of the engine and road noise is enough to make someone thinking about buying, said class a, think again.
I would also like to know how the axis/vegas mpg compares to say a 28 - 30' class c.

JRS950 · 04-13-2016, 12:17 AM

As of now our 28Z is getting a little over 8 mpg. That is towing a 2015 Kia Soul. I usually run don the road at about 62 on the interstate and just 55 or less on back roads. Hope that help. Our unit has clos e to 7000 miles nowe. Mileage has improved with age.

pjciii · 04-13-2016, 03:18 AM

I have the 22fe freedom elite 2016 model. I just love it. Installed the Truma AquaGo instant hot water heater and a layer of insulation under the overhead bunk. It cut noise and keeps area warmer. Installed a digital thermostat and that has been great as well. Installed an Eheater in back bedroom. Another great install. Got front end alignment first thing. Plan to remove shower pan and install a tub and replace kitchen and bathroom faucets with something that has drop down spray head and one that sticks out a little farther in bathroom. Also will install a Maxx fan in bathroom and over bunk. I have plenty of room for the DW, great pyr and 2 cats. I can park it anywhere and get 10 mpg overall. I am happy with my RV, Thor when I have called with questions and camping world for beating the lowest price for my unit in the country. I read a lot on the forums and try to learn from the bad experiences and what not to do. Sorry for my rant but that's my 2 cents
Patrick

Also did the stove and sink covers. May even take stove and oven out for more storage and install a convection microwave.

Markb · 04-13-2016, 02:10 PM

I have read the post from some of the class a owners that comment on the engine and road noise and feel they need to add sound insulation to the engine cover. I am wondering how the noise level is in a new class c on a Ford cab chassis with v10.

pdeter · 04-13-2016, 08:43 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by Markb

I have read the post from some of the class a owners that comment on the engine and road noise and feel they need to add sound insulation to the engine cover. I am wondering how the noise level is in a new class c on a Ford cab chassis with v10.

I have not had any issues with noise in my 28H. Actually the only time I hear the engine is during acceleration, especially when going up hill. But, in my opinion, cruising is not any more noisy than my Ram 1500.

pdeter · 04-13-2016, 08:45 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by pjciii

I have the 22fe freedom elite 2016 model. I just love it. Installed the Truma AquaGo instant hot water heater and a layer of insulation under the overhead bunk. It cut noise and keeps area warmer. Installed a digital thermostat and that has been great as well. Installed an Eheater in back bedroom. Another great install. Got front end alignment first thing. Plan to remove shower pan and install a tub and replace kitchen and bathroom faucets with something that has drop down spray head and one that sticks out a little farther in bathroom. Also will install a Maxx fan in bathroom and over bunk. I have plenty of room for the DW, great pyr and 2 cats. I can park it anywhere and get 10 mpg overall. I am happy with my RV, Thor when I have called with questions and camping world for beating the lowest price for my unit in the country. I read a lot on the forums and try to learn from the bad experiences and what not to do. Sorry for my rant but that's my 2 cents
Patrick

Also did the stove and sink covers. May even take stove and oven out for more storage and install a convection microwave.

Sounds like you have a plan and have done a lot of work. I too want to install a digital thermostat. Which one did you install? Do you have just the roof A/C and gas heat? Is it 12V powered?

pjciii · 04-14-2016, 10:32 AM

Hi pdeter
I bought the LUX heat only 2 wire thermostat. I have roof air conditioning.Robot Check

also put mattress toppers on rear queen bed and the overhead bunk. replaced Seiki tv and separate dvd player with a 32" tv with dvd built in for extra over head storage. also covered the entry way with a piece of 3/4" plywood that stores behind the drivers seat to give the dog extra room when driving and at night.

patrick

Diane · 04-15-2016, 11:12 PM

Hi, we have the Four Winds 26A, one of their smaller RVs so storage is premium! Ours has a small as in not very deep broom closet (?) I added some adjustable shelving baskets I bought at the Container store for can goods and bottles, very happy with that, stops all that moving around! I also added memory foam to the master bed and bunk - not sure how they could make a bed THAT uncomfortable but it would make you cry!

Jury is still out on our fix. I also want to get a cover for the sink and stove since counter space is non-exsistant!
I also put small hanging shelf in the closet, an easy little thing but it seems to be working well for us.
I too would like to see some pictures as I am always looking for ideas and people are so clever it always amazes me!
I am very interested in the stabilizer as I feel the drive is very "loose" but have been told that's normal - I don't agree and now having joined this forum I'm seeing more people are agreeing with me

vkb · 04-16-2016, 05:17 AM

Quote:

Originally Posted by Diane

Hi, we have the Four Winds 26A, one of their smaller RVs so storage is premium! Ours has a small as in not very deep broom closet (?) I added some adjustable shelving baskets I bought at the Container store for can goods and bottles, very happy with that, stops all that moving around! I also added memory foam to the master bed and bunk - not sure how they could make a bed THAT uncomfortable but it would make you cry!

Jury is still out on our fix. I also want to get a cover for the sink and stove since counter space is non-exsistant!
I also put small hanging shelf in the closet, an easy little thing but it seems to be working well for us.
I too would like to see some pictures as I am always looking for ideas and people are so clever it always amazes me!
I am very interested in the stabilizer as I feel the drive is very "loose" but have been told that's normal - I don't agree and now having joined this forum I'm seeing more people are agreeing with me

HI...Diane...checkout the Vegas/Axis Mods thread on this forum. I realize you do not have that coach...but, we have many contributors who have done some neat stuff ! I like your organizational suggestions. Many photos are posted and lots of chatter !
I would like to see your adjustable baskets you installed.
We bought a large cutting board to place on the stove of our previous toyhauler. You can find them on Amazon/Camping World & Bed Bath & Beyond to name a few. For our Axis and its little round kitchen sink, we found a round of wood at Home Depot. It is perfect as a cover and offers us just a bit more space on that counter. (photo posted Mods thread)

That is all I got for tonight ! Have FUN !

Kay

Toad Haul · 04-16-2016, 11:11 AM

We upgraded from a 26ft trailer to a Four Winds 31L last year. We absolutely love it. We've done a few simple mods, more as "wants" than needs. Once we got the steering alignment tighten up to higher specs this thing drives like a dream. I think it's a little loud, but nothing we can't live with. I've seen some posts of insulating the engine cover to reduce noise and may try that sooner or later.

We've changed a few things like the shower head and thermostat, but that's about it....

- DW made a great cover for the step well so the dogs wouldn't end up down there while driving.
- Added a TPMS system
- We have the over-cab entertainment center and love it. I did put in a mounting layout behind the television to store/protect all of my fishing poles and to keep them out of the way.
- Installed a towel rod on/above the bathroom vanity to secure lotions, body wash bottles, shaving cream, etc. that way everything is right at hand and doesn't take up other space.
- used a nice cutting board and rubber door stops to make a stove surface cover for more counter space. But, the nice thing about the 31L and a huge selling point for us is that it already has a lot of counter space.

Overall, we're thrilled with the Four Winds and have had only one or two issues that were promptly corrected by our local Camping World (not even where we bought the rv) and Thor.

pdeter · 04-16-2016, 07:06 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by Diane

Hi, we have the Four Winds 26A, one of their smaller RVs so storage is premium! Ours has a small as in not very deep broom closet (?) I added some adjustable shelving baskets I bought at the Container store for can goods and bottles, very happy with that, stops all that moving around! I also added memory foam to the master bed and bunk - not sure how they could make a bed THAT uncomfortable but it would make you cry!

Jury is still out on our fix. I also want to get a cover for the sink and stove since counter space is non-exsistant!
I also put small hanging shelf in the closet, an easy little thing but it seems to be working well for us.
I too would like to see some pictures as I am always looking for ideas and people are so clever it always amazes me!
I am very interested in the stabilizer as I feel the drive is very "loose" but have been told that's normal - I don't agree and now having joined this forum I'm seeing more people are agreeing with me

Hi Diane, The steering stabilizer I put on was a Safe-t-plus. It was very easy to install (did it myself) and the site has a lot of information. Here is the link Safe-T-Plus - The Steering Control Specialists | Helping motorists' vehicles steer safer, less, and with peace of mind.

KNMIB · 04-17-2016, 12:00 AM

I did the Saf-T-Plus and that was my best upgrade.

N2rving · 07-25-2016, 11:54 PM

We have had our 2016 Thor Freedom Elite 23H for a few months now. After our first trip we installed a few things that we learned about on this forum.

1. Before our first trip we sealed the rear wheel wells with some spray foam to prevent water intrusion between the plastic and the fiberglass.

2. We had the front end alignment done. Necessary because the Ford alignment is done before the coach is put on the chassis. We noticed some slight wear on one front tire after a long trip.

3. Installed the Road Master steering stabilizer, which made a huge difference in steering and handling compared to our first trip.

4. We put a 5 inch foam mattress underneath the factory mattress, personal preference. It does make the mattress taller but the 5 inch is what we had from our travel trailer that we traded.

5. Installed a tire pressure monitoring system.

The only thing that we have had a problem with was after 3,900 miles we had a small water leak under the kitchen sink. Which we fixed ourselves. Just took the sink up and tightened a loose fitting.

The bluetooth microphone on our model is less than desirable. We now use an earpiece bluetooth after getting reports that people could not understand us very well.

We have been very happy with the Freedom Elite. It is so much better than pulling a travel trailer on our long trips. If we had known what a motor coach was like a few years ago we would have purchased sooner.

Ag&Au · 07-26-2016, 01:52 AM

Quote:

Originally Posted by Markb

I have read the post from some of the class a owners that comment on the engine and road noise and feel they need to add sound insulation to the engine cover. I am wondering how the noise level is in a new class c on a Ford cab chassis with v10.

We recently purchased a new Four winds 22E. It is a Ford E-450 with a V-10. I don't find the engine noise anything worth commenting about. We drove from Utah to Washington State on Interstate highways and it was not anything I even thought about. However it is a truck, so I'm guessing that someone who hasn't been around trucks might notice the noise compared to a family sedan.

Ken
I just realized that I responded to a months old post. Well. maybe someone is interested.

nosticks · 07-26-2016, 12:48 PM

Let's keep this post alive. Lot's of good ideas here.

After moving from a 4 slide fifth wheel to a Four Winds 22e, it takes a little adjusting. We mainly use the 22e for a night or two while traveling with dogs. The fiver was moved a few times a year basically seasonal stays in one place. Having said all that, there are a few mods I have done thus far.

I made a fold up entry step well cover to keep anyone including the dogs from falling in the well. You flip it up to use the steps for a short stop like a rest area but remove it once you are settled for an overnight stay.

I added a back up camera that I can turn on at anytime, not just reverse.

I put some levels inside on the dash panel and door panel. Since I use wood to level, I just place the wood ramps under the tires and can see when I'm level from the drivers seat.

Replaced the puny tv with a 32" in the bunk area and moved the little tv to the bedroom.

As I am writing this, I have a roll of Reflectix to cut for each window to be used during storage but also can be used if you get in a site with too much sun on a side.

Added a holding tank venturi.

That's all for now.

KNMIB · 07-26-2016, 01:43 PM

Can you send pick of that well cover?

gentilebrian · 07-26-2016, 02:00 PM

We have a 2017 Freedom Elite 26he

First was to spray 4 cans of undercoating to anything shiny underneath.
The stereo speakers were horrible so those got replaced.
The 32" tv only runs on 120v so I swapped that out with a 24" 12v tv/dvd combo and installed the 32" into the bedroom area.
The matress is more like a board so we bought a matress pad. That was not enough so we bought a additional 4" memory foam pad and haven't tried that yet.

Next up is going to be LED Offroad lights for backing up.
Install a analog 12v gage
Install a new outlet but one with a night light for not so much seeing at night but to tell me if the generator is running. Hard to hear when driving and only real indication is the microwave which is very dim.
Need something for black tank washing.

We came from a R-Vision 33' class A and couldn't be happier moving down to this 26'. Big part of the decision was it had to be short to make it down a boat launch ramp and had to be a E-450 chassis to have enough to pull the boat.

I don't hear much wind noise from the coach. Its just the motor and its a big motor so its gonna be loud. That's why people get pushers so they don't have to hear it. It is louder then my Gas F250 but not by much but the motor is trying harder.

I only have put on 1,100 miles but my MPG towing my 7k boat is 6.5mpg.

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