From reader Cindy Trombly
Dear Chuck,
A few weeks back you asked for stories about good experiences with RV manufacturers and dealers. This is one on a manufacturer, Viking RV, part of Coachmen and Forest River.
A few weeks back you asked for stories about good experiences with RV manufacturers and dealers. This is one on a manufacturer, Viking RV, part of Coachmen and Forest River.
A couple of years ago my son purchased a used Viking pop-up. By the end of last year the floor needed replacement. The dealer wouldn’t touch it and claimed the manufacturer wouldn’t either, obviously less than helpful and probably not honest.In the course of his travels as a pilot, my son struck up a conversation with a guy and the conversation turned to camping. My son expressed his disappointment at the quality of his camper and how he just wanted to get it fixed. The conversation turned at this point as the guy gave my son his business card. He was a VP of Production for Viking, ironically at the very plant that built the unit.
MY SON WAS TOLD TO CALL and make arrangements to bring the unit back to the factory and they would complete all repairs (that included a failed water pump as well) for FREE. He took it to the factory back in late Jan/early Feb and just got the call that it was done. He has received apologies from not only this VP but the president of Viking. They are trying to change their methods/production/etc., for the better going forward.
They have instructed dealers to repair certain models/years even if out of warranty. It is probably best to contact the manufacturer to find out the details of course. (Please note this happened only because my son had a calm conversation not a temper tantrum). I think that if I were in the market for a pop-up I would seriously give some consideration to this company.
I guess the proof will be how well it holds up after a season of camping, but I remain optimistic.
##RVT791
JUst read this article , missed your request for readers experiences with manufacturers.
Several years ago we owned a Forest River Cherokee 5th wheel. On our maiden voyage to Florida for the winter.. MY husband discovered a problem with the rubber roof The rubber was wrinkled on the top. We had purchased this RV new. although it was a last year’s model. LOng story short. we ended up taking it to Topeka IN where it was manufactured. While inspecting the roof they discovered the rubber looked as if it had been sliced with a knife…during installation… So they removed the roof and checked the unit for evidence of water damage. The ended up tearing the back off the unit and replacing that wall, the stereo system and of course the rubber roof. All at no cost to us. In addition they added an awning over the slide , because of all the inconvenience to us. I have nothing nice to say about Forrest River, and wanted to purchase another Forrest River product when we upgraded. Unfortunately we did not find one withn our budge and now own a Keystone Laredo.
Should have read before posting. I meant to say i HAVE NOTHING BUT NICE THINGS TO SAY ABOUT FORREST RIVER.
Thanks for the story. It’s encouraging to hear that some of the manufacturers are paying attention to customer service and satisfaction with their products.