Thor Forums

[The Gritz Carlton]

I've had numerous "campers" in my life with the first being a 1982 31' Prowler, rear bunk house. This was back in the days where walls were flat, ceilings were low and every component was a stand alone item, i.e., roof air was a self contained Coleman...all controls on the unit with no "ducts"...furnace was a single unit popping out the wall...no microwave...gas only SMALL fridge and seams by the thousands. Basic but state of the art in it's day. Today's RV's are an amazing conglomerate of complex, multi-function devices, led by the demands of buyers for more convenience, more space, more push-button automation and more home-like features. I searched for over 2 years before purchasing the 35SF. We've been on four trips now, abused every feature, and haven't had anything serious pop up. Build quality seems excellent and a lot of thought and engineering has gone into the placement of everything. The new multiplex wiring system is amazing...water pump switch in 5 different locations...lights can be controlled from multiple locations, etc., etc. Safety features and auto lock-outs are a bit aggravating but understandable. The power of the F550 chassis is unbelievable. Over 2,800 miles now, mostly on cruise at 64MPH and not a single downshift in the transmission. Mileage is averaging 11.3 and dash A/C cools entire unit while underway. with all the negative reviews everywhere...I'm beginning to believe the theories of the few that get a "lemon" speak the loudest and many take this as a general opinion of Thor owners and assume everything they make is junk. Not by my standards. The RV industry as a whole is very challenged today with quality labor and production quotas. There is also the over-loaded, over-abused and neglected units that will fail at a given point. We pack only what we need and haven't sold the house and moved "everything" we own into the MH. The higher up the price ladder you go...better components and QC follow. The more dedicated build facility you have for given units, the better build quality you get. I am very impressed with everything that's gone into this coach and would buy it again with no questions!