Should Keystone Build a Larger Triple Axle Montana?

[KCFindley]

At Keystone RV, we’re always listening to you. We’re exploring the idea of building our largest Montana ever — a longer, heavier floorplan designed with a triple axle to support the added length, weight, and stability.
We’d love your honest input: (Kasey Findley w/Keystone Marketing)

 

[mlh]

I’d be interested in a shorter lighter camper but not a heavier longer one.

 

[Mikendebbie]

I’m happy with my double axle unit…I just wish the OEM suspension was stronger/better. Currently my springs are basically flat and need to be replaced. I plan to beef up my spring hanger brackets and add Morryde X-Factor braces. I have not experienced any frame flex…YET! Fingers crossed.

Edit: if we were in need of a true toy hauler i would want a triple axle, but we dont have those kind of toys. Triple axles on a “couples rig” just looks like more $$$ and maintenance to me. Maybe a couples trailer with a folding patio might be appropriate for triple axles.

 

[Jay & Bobbie]

Ditto, Mikendebbie. We've had no suspension issues. However, on a 8 year old unit, suspension parts are wearing and will need replacement. Inspection of the suspension and bearing repack in on the March calendar.

 

[ColoradoKampers]

Kasey, thanks for asking. I'm more interested in overall better build quality, better frame/suspension components and improved storage, layout options. The new 3100RL looks nice!

 

[1wayhighway]

I don't ever see ourselves in that size of a rig only because of how we like to camp, but you never know.

I did catch the video on the new wide body Montana and I like it. Based on the unit weight alone it appears there has been significant changes in the unit. I would be interested in learning more about the Curt suspension and a comparison done between it and the MORryde.

Thanks for asking.

 

[Carl n Susan]

To me, 3 axles implies a much heavier RV which really doesn't interest me. Plus I am not a fan of 3 axles to begin. I think improving the quality of the existing units, finally correcting the frame flex issues that have plagued the Montana line since the early 2000s, moving to a modern suspension system instead of the 1960 technology used today, and offering floor plans which better meet user needs rather than a design by someone who has never lived in one. would go a long way towards getting back the buyers you have lost.

 

[farmerbk]

While a triple axle would not be my first choice, if properly set up I would consider it.

What I do not understand is why the RV manufacturers will not put dual tandems on in place of a triple.. or even our highly loaded doubles. Would be a much, much more secure suspension and towing experience. And likely less money than triples

bryon

 

[LeftOverParts]

Hi Kasey, great to see the interest and survey.

In the, “we’re always listening to you” category, it would be great if there was a recurring, detailed survey of current owner’s likes, dislikes, and recommendations. Topics could include design, reliability/trouble areas, Keystone competitors, dealers, serviceability, wishlists, and more. It could give Keystone a better idea on how to stay ahead of recent upstarts and ones in planning; and improve profitability.

Just a thought.

 

[dedmiston]

Our other fiver is a triple axle toy hauler with a separate garage for our off-road car. We bought the Montana to get a smaller unit for more civilized travel.

I love our toy hauler despite the crazy length. It’s perfect for boondocking, but FHU sites are difficult because of the length. We have to get reservations every night because the longer spaces are scarce (we’re 50’ long). Parking is challenging too.

One other drawback to the third axle is the tire scrub. I rotate tires twice a year, but I still have to replace the rears way too often.

The two fivers are very different, but I love them both.

 

[mlh]

I think one thing to do if you truly listen to your customers is to put more quality in these units. How many times have I been on this forum and someone had a new camper with problems some minor some major. I know you have investors who want a profit. Maybe they would give up short term profit for long term gains. How many more customers would you have if we could buy a camper we knew wasn’t going to fall apart after the warranty was out and how much more would their used unit be worth towards a new unit.
I’ve been on business 45 years making products for the public I know quality pays.
Lynwood

 

[Rick n Kelly]

To me, 3 axles implies a much heavier RV which really doesn't interest me. Plus I am not a fan of 3 axles to begin. I think improving the quality of the existing units, finally correcting the frame flex issues that have plagued the Montana line since the early 2000s, moving to a modern suspension system instead of the 1960 technology used today, and offering floor plans which better meet user needs rather than a design by someone who has never lived in one. would go a long way towards getting back the buyers you have lost.

Agree 100%, instead of building another mouse trap, build what you do better!

 

[Reichster]

Why would I want a bigger heavier unit when I have a 3121RL with a broken frame that you politely told me it was my problem to fix. The units that are larger than mine have more issues with the frame and Keystone blames Lippert and Lippert blames Keystone. It's a no-win situation when Keystone doesn't stand behind their RV's even when they know they have a manufacturing defect and notify the dealers what to look for and how to repair it but never let the customers/ owners know what indications to look for.

 

[scottandsusan]

For us, quality and under 34 feet. Don't think the majority of folks will want a bigger than 40 feet and triple axles.