3485SA - Montana Owners Club

alboy · 06-02-2007, 06:13 AM

Just wondering if anyone could share there experiences re pulling this size unit( 38ft.) around compared to say a 35-36 footer.We have a 3000rk ordered, but our dealer has this 08 that just came in,right color, lots of storage.We are down south max 2 months a year,but use the trailer on a monthly basis ,short trips 2-400 kilometers .
thx AL/CAROL

jrgwdenner · 06-02-2007, 06:16 AM

Al and Carol, we've pulled a 37+ footer well over 30,000 miles, including a trip to Alaska and found that the Montana pulls like a dream. Both of the units that you mentioned are great units. I wouldn't let the extra 2 - 3 feet affect your decision. Pick the one that works best for you. Welcome to the forum.

sreigle · 06-02-2007, 07:08 AM

We're towing a 39 footer and also have had the 31 foot and 36 foot Montanas. I really cannot tell the difference in how they tow other than a little more weight. The Montana is known as a sweet tow. You didn't mention your tow vehicle so I am assuming it's either diesel or a big gas V8 or V10 and at least 3/4 ton.

alboy · 06-02-2007, 07:44 AM

06 3500 CTD Dodge-have you noticed much difference getting in and out of places,only weighs 800 lbs. more than the 3000RK,WE HAD A 31 FT. TT BEFORE.
APPRECIATE the comments. AL/CAROL

DarMar · 06-02-2007, 07:48 AM

Go for the unit you prefer to have, you certainly have the tv to pull it and after the first couple of pulls you won't realize any difference in the weight or length.

sreigle · 06-02-2007, 08:09 AM

As for getting into and out of sites, you might go a bit farther past the site before you start backing in. Put the axles about the same place you did with the old trailer and you'll probably be about right. You'll get the hang of it in no time.

Also, since the axles are likely farther back from the hitch you might need to swing a bit wider on the turns but not by very much. Again, you'll get the hang of it quickly.

richfaa · 06-02-2007, 08:41 AM

We tow the 06 3400..39 feet 1 inch long.As Steve says..you will get the hang of it in no time. we are long timers , that is we spend a lot of time in the camper and went for the biggest unit we could get..400 square feet..Don't worry about how long it is or how big it is..get what you need/afford..and..get the proper tow vehicle.

sreigle · 06-02-2007, 10:28 AM

Alboy, I just caught that you have been towing a TT. You will find the FW needs a wider swing when going around corners. You will also find it backs differently. You will need to go farther past the site as it will react more slowly to your steering input when backing. Just take it real slow with small steering corrections and you will do fine. When you have to pull out and start over, just remember we all did the same thing and some of us (me) still do that at times. I think you'll like the FW experience and the Montana was an excellent choice. Good luck. Don't hesitate with questions.

jrgwdenner · 06-02-2007, 10:56 AM

Go for the big rig! Your Dodge will love you for it!

alboy · 06-02-2007, 12:02 PM

Thanks for all the imput.I drove lots of semi,s in my younger years ,logging trucks etc. but always had lots of room to maneuver around and little traffic to contend with.AL/CAROL

Glenn and Lorraine · 06-02-2007, 01:59 PM

AL/CAROL,
After 3 1/2 years of full timing and towing my 32 foot 2955RL Monty through most all the states east of the Mississippi with few problems related to length. This past January I traded that 32 footer in on a 3485SA. I found the 3485SA manuvering a bit different due to the additional over hang from the rear wheels to the ladder. Other than that the 3485SA seems to tow better than the 2955RL. I truley do have to look in the mirror to be sure it is still back there. Longer is not a bad thing particularily to an ex-semidriver. Like riding a bicycle, you don't forget your trailering experience.
The 3485SA's living space is considerably larger than the 32' making full timing a bit more comfortable but the biggest PLUS has to be the FULLY ENCLOSED bathroom. It is great getting up 2 hours before Lorraine, closing the bathroom door behind me, carry out the 3 S's and never once disturbe Lorraine's sleep. With the standard vanity and shower only seperated from the bed by some flimsey accordian door(?) there was NO WAY possible to not disturbe the sleeper.

Now I know that was a bit more info than you requested but your possible upgrading has to do with a lot more than just the difference in length.

bsmeaton · 06-03-2007, 05:22 AM

AL/Carol,

Agree with Glenn - Our longer 3400 unit actually tows smoother than our old 2955 (might be the suspension). It is a heavier pull, and you do have to watch that rear swing on the turns more.

If you like the floorplan better than the one you have on order and price is good, I wouldn't hesitate to go for it!

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