Chelsea FC-PA
New member
I'm looking to purchase the 385FL in 2022. Please share your experiences with us .
385FL Pro's / Con's
- Thread starter Chelsea FC-PA
- Start date
Hi @Chelsea FC-PA - thanks for your interest in the 385FL and for posting here on the forum! Say, we've got around 600 members here so far (recently launched) but not many of them are engaging in conversation just yet. I took the liberty of posting a link from this forum thread of yours, over on the Alliance RV 385FL Enthusiasts Facebook group - link. Not sure if you're a Facebook user but if you are, consider joining that group and pose your question. I'm also hopeful a couple of 385FL owners will pop by here and give you some replies.
Hello Chelsea FC -
We were looking at purchasing in late 2020, planning to eventually go full time. We had narrowed down to the 365RD or the 372RK as my wife likes to have the kitchen fully seperate from the living area. She doesn’t relax if the kitchen is in the side of her view. The day before we were going to purchase the 372RK that was at our local dealer, Bill Martin shared pictures of the first prototype of the 385FL. Wow, it had amazing storage inside, plus the raised storage of the 365 in back - perfect for us!
We ordered it mid-Dec 2020, with an expected delivery mid- to late February. We sold our house with a close date of mid-March. Well, the trailer was a bit late on production (got pictures of it on the line, it was great) due to the start of the parts shortages… but it shipped and we on the way to Boise. Unfortunately, the day we were to go pick it up, we got a terrible call: the salesman said it had been damaged in transit and heading back to the factory. They didn’t tell us where, but it HAD to be close due to the delivery time. We eventually found out it was superficial repair and it was turned around and hot-shipped back out. Our dealer, in the mean time, had loaned us an Alpine 5th wheel, since we had to be out of our house. We picked up our trailer April 2, immediately moving in full time…. Not having ever seen a 385 in person. My wife was BEAMING after the first time she walked through it, saying it was EXACTLY what she wanted.
Between pickup and Aug. 1, 2021, we lived in it full time and we logged about 3500 miles on several trips throughout the West. We had a few minor leaks from PEX fittings, and Alliance had a tech come out to the military base we were staying on and go through the system. The tech was great and problems solved quickly. Our largest issue was a slide that stopped working - well, one side of it. I was able to get someone on the phone immediately who helped me diagnose… a motor wire came unplugged. Once re-plugged it worked fine. Later that day, i affixed the wire in such a way it hasn’t happened again. We also had a poorly operating stove. No problem, another one sent out with an offer to have an RV tech install it. We were again staying on a military base, and I was working pretty heavily, so I simply installed it myself with a friend because I didn’t want to deal with scheduling and a wait.
We have also really enjoyed the trailer - it tows really well, has excellent amenities, and features such as per-fixture water shutoff really help maintenance and upkeep. We have more space than we should, actually, have to watch how much you load up. But, I plan to do some advanced mods. We have a basic solar package, I plan to add to that or replace with a large system in the next couple of years. I’m also considering replacing the 7k axles with 8k, plus adding shocks. We don’t really need to do that- but being a Mechanical Engineer, I am kinda prone to having too many tools and so forth… plus I’m also considering becoming a mobile RV tech.
What are things I wish this had? Well, the 8k axles for one. We did, however, order it with disc brakes and a few other features such as the solar package and dual pane windows (they don’t really enhance the thermal issues - rv windows are horrible for that) but they do cut down on noise quite a bit. We also added a gen prep option, but that was pretty pointless - I can’t see adding a generator after all… I’ll go solar. I also wish the docking lights really lit the hitch area. They’re really nice for an evening show-off… but the switch is outside at the front… would love it on the control panel inside. Oh, and then ADD lights under the hitch- which at least one person has done. Also, the tank dump levers are in back, up under the side skirt. I’ll be cutting the side skirt and adding an access door. I think the newer 385s now have this… ours was one of the first 10 or so off the line.
Hope this helps! Please ask if you have any questions.
Lynn
We were looking at purchasing in late 2020, planning to eventually go full time. We had narrowed down to the 365RD or the 372RK as my wife likes to have the kitchen fully seperate from the living area. She doesn’t relax if the kitchen is in the side of her view. The day before we were going to purchase the 372RK that was at our local dealer, Bill Martin shared pictures of the first prototype of the 385FL. Wow, it had amazing storage inside, plus the raised storage of the 365 in back - perfect for us!
We ordered it mid-Dec 2020, with an expected delivery mid- to late February. We sold our house with a close date of mid-March. Well, the trailer was a bit late on production (got pictures of it on the line, it was great) due to the start of the parts shortages… but it shipped and we on the way to Boise. Unfortunately, the day we were to go pick it up, we got a terrible call: the salesman said it had been damaged in transit and heading back to the factory. They didn’t tell us where, but it HAD to be close due to the delivery time. We eventually found out it was superficial repair and it was turned around and hot-shipped back out. Our dealer, in the mean time, had loaned us an Alpine 5th wheel, since we had to be out of our house. We picked up our trailer April 2, immediately moving in full time…. Not having ever seen a 385 in person. My wife was BEAMING after the first time she walked through it, saying it was EXACTLY what she wanted.
Between pickup and Aug. 1, 2021, we lived in it full time and we logged about 3500 miles on several trips throughout the West. We had a few minor leaks from PEX fittings, and Alliance had a tech come out to the military base we were staying on and go through the system. The tech was great and problems solved quickly. Our largest issue was a slide that stopped working - well, one side of it. I was able to get someone on the phone immediately who helped me diagnose… a motor wire came unplugged. Once re-plugged it worked fine. Later that day, i affixed the wire in such a way it hasn’t happened again. We also had a poorly operating stove. No problem, another one sent out with an offer to have an RV tech install it. We were again staying on a military base, and I was working pretty heavily, so I simply installed it myself with a friend because I didn’t want to deal with scheduling and a wait.
We have also really enjoyed the trailer - it tows really well, has excellent amenities, and features such as per-fixture water shutoff really help maintenance and upkeep. We have more space than we should, actually, have to watch how much you load up. But, I plan to do some advanced mods. We have a basic solar package, I plan to add to that or replace with a large system in the next couple of years. I’m also considering replacing the 7k axles with 8k, plus adding shocks. We don’t really need to do that- but being a Mechanical Engineer, I am kinda prone to having too many tools and so forth… plus I’m also considering becoming a mobile RV tech.
What are things I wish this had? Well, the 8k axles for one. We did, however, order it with disc brakes and a few other features such as the solar package and dual pane windows (they don’t really enhance the thermal issues - rv windows are horrible for that) but they do cut down on noise quite a bit. We also added a gen prep option, but that was pretty pointless - I can’t see adding a generator after all… I’ll go solar. I also wish the docking lights really lit the hitch area. They’re really nice for an evening show-off… but the switch is outside at the front… would love it on the control panel inside. Oh, and then ADD lights under the hitch- which at least one person has done. Also, the tank dump levers are in back, up under the side skirt. I’ll be cutting the side skirt and adding an access door. I think the newer 385s now have this… ours was one of the first 10 or so off the line.
Hope this helps! Please ask if you have any questions.
Lynn
KevinHazlett
New member
@Chelsea FC-PA
@Jim Beletti
Chelsea, we own a 2021 Paradigm 385FL...76th unit out of plant #2! We live in it full-time (no house, no land) and move every week. Have been to 21 states in the last 5 months. You could say we've exercised every system on the unit. I also do my own repairs (except when we were in Elkhart, IN...at which time I took it to Alliance for some repairs).
Bottom line, we love the 385FL. We've had only minor issues...but we've learned that all manufacturers have issues. Difference is Alliance is always there to help fix problems, send parts, or just be a voice on the other end of the phone. The support team is very knowledgeable and every one of them can talk you through any problem.
Looking specifically at the 385FL...we liked it for lots of reasons:
1. The master bathroom. We don't like sharing a bathroom with those that visit, so we liked there was a 1/2 bath. Also handy for quick stops (we have our own Rest Stop bathroom!)
2. Part of #1, we like you can get to the left side of the fridge and the 1/2 bath when you're traveling
3. We love the stacked washer/dryer that doesn't take over a closet like so many other models. T here are still 2 closets and lots of drawer space for clothes (so you don't really lose the closet space when you install the washer and dryer)...by the way, we love the stacked, vented Spendide units. Every bit as good as residential washer/dryer...only smaller.
4. We love the slide out tray in the basement for storage. I'm about to rig up a permanent stand on the tray for our two (2) eLectric bikes. I've seen pics of someone who took the tray out and uses it to park a mini-golf cart...whaaaaat?
5. The rear bedroom means you're as far away from the generator as possible (hate that sound while sleeping!)
6. The desk option means it competes well with the floorplan that has the office/flex room. I work full time from the RV and do everything at my desk.
7. Three separate living areas...all large...and the open floor plan on the kitchen/living gives the illusion of a bigger space. Same with the bedroom and master bath when the barn door between them is open.
Generally, for all the Paradigm models...start with the 100 customer-driven features listing...then read below...
8. Love the fireplace...awesome heat that contributes to the main heater during cold evenings.
9. Love the look of the Paradigm...we don't like coming home to a casino (i.e., hate wild paint jobs and gold-lined interiors)...the down-to-earth two-tone colors are more our style.
10. Storage...the proprietary upper-deck offers better storage in the basement (the 385, of course, adds to it with the rear slide-out...but the upper-deck improves the front space on all models).
11. Manual control panel...yes, manual is better! No computer controls to go wacky on you...and you can always automate the switches you want using z-wave technology that interfaces with Alexa (or your phone)..."Alexa, bring the bedroom slide in". A dream I plan to implement next year!
12. Alliance people! Let me say it again...Alliance people! Both buyers and corporate family at AllianceRV. Its a friendly community...not to mention the Alliance support - both the support department and the customer care folks in Sales, Parts, and Service....like Bill Martin, Jim Bonacci, Curtis Carlson, Michelle Miller, Jennifer Miller, Stephanie Wambaugh, Tony Morris, and this Jim Beletti guy that answered you first above. There are a lot more than this...too many nice people to name them all. When you can talk to the VP of Customer Service on a Sunday evening at 9pm...because he called you back!...you have a true A-Team. But the Alliance people we have met on the road and in the Facebook groups are second to none. Its like we're all willing to try this new company called Alliance. And there are a lot of smart people to help out with issues and the mods people make to their RVs are really done well.
13. Have a problem that needs a part? Take picture, call/email and send pic, get part in mail - its that easy!!!! Sometimes get a follow-up call to see how the repair went. Try to fix it yourself with Alliance's guidance...its liberating to fix your own stuff, but there's always the mobile tech to the rescue, too, and Alliance pays (under warranty).
14. Azdel siding!
15. Waste tanks that sit on a solid floor (not strapped in)
16. True 4-season, with heated basement and heating pads for tanks
Can't give you all the good without balancing it with the bad...keep in mind: all manufacturers are 1) having supply issues, 2) use 3rd party parts/supplies that are themselves faulty (many times hidden to Alliance and the dealers until they break in the field), 3) having issues hiring people right now, and 4) make mistakes that get through - we're human - we make mistakes. What makes Alliance different is they work to fix the problem immediately - on the existing assembly line, not next year's model.
- Oven has been an issue for a lot of people - but there are fixes that almost always work, and a new oven is easy to get from Alliance or Best Buy - I believe a lot of the issues are now being fixed on the Assembly line
- Cabinets seem a little underwhelming. They brag about their cabinet shop...and its actually pretty cool (took factory tour), but there are a lot of drawer issues. Seems they could build them even better. Their furniture construction also seems to use some fairly "cheap" materials - wood peeling, etc...just get some stain, putty, and crayons in the two Paradigm colors - you can get from Alliance Parts (or in a gift bag from the A-Team when you go for your factory tour!).
- Miswiring, misconnecting, or not wiring/connecting. Seeing too many situations where black and grey tanks are either plumbed backwards or plumbed in such a way the black is going into the grey. Seems like an easy fix that got through way to many times! But its really not that hard to fix...just frustrating. Have also seen where some have not had certain wires connected. Or had a missing heater hose. These are all easy fixes and shouldn't have made it past QA...but this is where the human thing happens.
- Wish they put either 3 axles or 8,000lb axles on the 385 and 390. They are big and long...they need the extra support. Not doing so makes the extra storage the 385 provides kind of a mute point. You'll go over weight very easily. We had a 1,000lbs of solar installed (12 panels, 8 lithium batteries, two 3000 watt inverters, and converters)...removed generator to compensate a little, but still easily overweight currently. We plan to do the 8,000lb MoRyde independent suspension upgrade next year. Won't change the sticker weight, but I won't worry about the suspension any longer!
- The bedroom and master bath get cold - don't heat well. I'm still checking to see if I have a kinked hose (and think I do). I also understand its very common to get a space heater and that will take care of that problem fast.
- Caulking job throughout needs some work...maybe some training for whoever is doing it!
There are more positive and negatives...but here's the bottom line: We Love Our 385FL!!!
Tips for buying:
1. Have the factory install all options you plan to get. There are very few dealers that are good at service...this is true of all RVs. And even if you find one that is good today...they may be terrible with your next problem. Therefore, you want the options installed by Alliance. These are: washer/dryer (yes, no matter what a dealer tells you, the factory will install the washer and dryer), Onan 5500 generator (yes, again, the factory will install), slide toppers, and day shades.
2. Think hard about wanting to get the dishwasher option or double-paned windows. RV payload (separate from truck) is tight on the 385FL. A dishwasher is not really necessary (in our opinion) and the double-paned windows are 400-500lbs of unnecessary weight.
3. GET THE DISC BRAKES!!! You'll be happy you did.
4. If you plan to work at all in your 385 - or spend a lot of time doing bills, writing Christmas cards, etc - get the desk option. You lose a couch/bed, but if you don't need it then get the desk. The extra drawer space alone is worth it. I have some desk mods I can share with you.
5. You should get between 25-30% off MSRP. If you can't get your dealer to give you that...go to a different dealer. We drove 1,500 miles to get our RV. We shopped salesperson as much as we shopped RV manufacturer...and won on both accounts. Service wasn't part of our decision because we're full time, four season RVers and our service is ALWAYS on the road at a different location.
Other notes, including mods we've made:
- Added a Ring system with flood sensors in the wet bay, under every sink, and next to washer. I am (and have been) alerted to any water leak in those areas. Other Ring devices are the door camera/doorbell, door/window sensors, and inside camera.
- Added outdoor carpet mats to steps
- Added screen door protector and handle bar
- Added a really good internet system
- Added high-end solar (mentioned above)
- Changed out kitchen island hanging lamps
- Updated headboard with some fabric
- Modified the desk to limit the cables that you see on top and to add more outlets and USB charging connectors beneath the desk
- Installed water filter and softener
- Installed internal EMS power monitor
- Be sure to caulk shower before you use it. Lay a good bead of caulk on the "inside" of the shower door tray (at bottom, and not on the outside...just inside). Check rest of caulk around the inside of the shower door. If you get the shower-insert then disregard.
- Go around the unit (behind the Nautilus panel, under sinks, behind toilets) and hand-tighten all water connections. Don't forget white hoses going to/from water pump.
@Jim Beletti
Chelsea, we own a 2021 Paradigm 385FL...76th unit out of plant #2! We live in it full-time (no house, no land) and move every week. Have been to 21 states in the last 5 months. You could say we've exercised every system on the unit. I also do my own repairs (except when we were in Elkhart, IN...at which time I took it to Alliance for some repairs).
Bottom line, we love the 385FL. We've had only minor issues...but we've learned that all manufacturers have issues. Difference is Alliance is always there to help fix problems, send parts, or just be a voice on the other end of the phone. The support team is very knowledgeable and every one of them can talk you through any problem.
Looking specifically at the 385FL...we liked it for lots of reasons:
1. The master bathroom. We don't like sharing a bathroom with those that visit, so we liked there was a 1/2 bath. Also handy for quick stops (we have our own Rest Stop bathroom!)
2. Part of #1, we like you can get to the left side of the fridge and the 1/2 bath when you're traveling
3. We love the stacked washer/dryer that doesn't take over a closet like so many other models. T here are still 2 closets and lots of drawer space for clothes (so you don't really lose the closet space when you install the washer and dryer)...by the way, we love the stacked, vented Spendide units. Every bit as good as residential washer/dryer...only smaller.
4. We love the slide out tray in the basement for storage. I'm about to rig up a permanent stand on the tray for our two (2) eLectric bikes. I've seen pics of someone who took the tray out and uses it to park a mini-golf cart...whaaaaat?
5. The rear bedroom means you're as far away from the generator as possible (hate that sound while sleeping!)
6. The desk option means it competes well with the floorplan that has the office/flex room. I work full time from the RV and do everything at my desk.
7. Three separate living areas...all large...and the open floor plan on the kitchen/living gives the illusion of a bigger space. Same with the bedroom and master bath when the barn door between them is open.
Generally, for all the Paradigm models...start with the 100 customer-driven features listing...then read below...
8. Love the fireplace...awesome heat that contributes to the main heater during cold evenings.
9. Love the look of the Paradigm...we don't like coming home to a casino (i.e., hate wild paint jobs and gold-lined interiors)...the down-to-earth two-tone colors are more our style.
10. Storage...the proprietary upper-deck offers better storage in the basement (the 385, of course, adds to it with the rear slide-out...but the upper-deck improves the front space on all models).
11. Manual control panel...yes, manual is better! No computer controls to go wacky on you...and you can always automate the switches you want using z-wave technology that interfaces with Alexa (or your phone)..."Alexa, bring the bedroom slide in". A dream I plan to implement next year!
12. Alliance people! Let me say it again...Alliance people! Both buyers and corporate family at AllianceRV. Its a friendly community...not to mention the Alliance support - both the support department and the customer care folks in Sales, Parts, and Service....like Bill Martin, Jim Bonacci, Curtis Carlson, Michelle Miller, Jennifer Miller, Stephanie Wambaugh, Tony Morris, and this Jim Beletti guy that answered you first above. There are a lot more than this...too many nice people to name them all. When you can talk to the VP of Customer Service on a Sunday evening at 9pm...because he called you back!...you have a true A-Team. But the Alliance people we have met on the road and in the Facebook groups are second to none. Its like we're all willing to try this new company called Alliance. And there are a lot of smart people to help out with issues and the mods people make to their RVs are really done well.
13. Have a problem that needs a part? Take picture, call/email and send pic, get part in mail - its that easy!!!! Sometimes get a follow-up call to see how the repair went. Try to fix it yourself with Alliance's guidance...its liberating to fix your own stuff, but there's always the mobile tech to the rescue, too, and Alliance pays (under warranty).
14. Azdel siding!
15. Waste tanks that sit on a solid floor (not strapped in)
16. True 4-season, with heated basement and heating pads for tanks
Can't give you all the good without balancing it with the bad...keep in mind: all manufacturers are 1) having supply issues, 2) use 3rd party parts/supplies that are themselves faulty (many times hidden to Alliance and the dealers until they break in the field), 3) having issues hiring people right now, and 4) make mistakes that get through - we're human - we make mistakes. What makes Alliance different is they work to fix the problem immediately - on the existing assembly line, not next year's model.
- Oven has been an issue for a lot of people - but there are fixes that almost always work, and a new oven is easy to get from Alliance or Best Buy - I believe a lot of the issues are now being fixed on the Assembly line
- Cabinets seem a little underwhelming. They brag about their cabinet shop...and its actually pretty cool (took factory tour), but there are a lot of drawer issues. Seems they could build them even better. Their furniture construction also seems to use some fairly "cheap" materials - wood peeling, etc...just get some stain, putty, and crayons in the two Paradigm colors - you can get from Alliance Parts (or in a gift bag from the A-Team when you go for your factory tour!).
- Miswiring, misconnecting, or not wiring/connecting. Seeing too many situations where black and grey tanks are either plumbed backwards or plumbed in such a way the black is going into the grey. Seems like an easy fix that got through way to many times! But its really not that hard to fix...just frustrating. Have also seen where some have not had certain wires connected. Or had a missing heater hose. These are all easy fixes and shouldn't have made it past QA...but this is where the human thing happens.
- Wish they put either 3 axles or 8,000lb axles on the 385 and 390. They are big and long...they need the extra support. Not doing so makes the extra storage the 385 provides kind of a mute point. You'll go over weight very easily. We had a 1,000lbs of solar installed (12 panels, 8 lithium batteries, two 3000 watt inverters, and converters)...removed generator to compensate a little, but still easily overweight currently. We plan to do the 8,000lb MoRyde independent suspension upgrade next year. Won't change the sticker weight, but I won't worry about the suspension any longer!
- The bedroom and master bath get cold - don't heat well. I'm still checking to see if I have a kinked hose (and think I do). I also understand its very common to get a space heater and that will take care of that problem fast.
- Caulking job throughout needs some work...maybe some training for whoever is doing it!
There are more positive and negatives...but here's the bottom line: We Love Our 385FL!!!
Tips for buying:
1. Have the factory install all options you plan to get. There are very few dealers that are good at service...this is true of all RVs. And even if you find one that is good today...they may be terrible with your next problem. Therefore, you want the options installed by Alliance. These are: washer/dryer (yes, no matter what a dealer tells you, the factory will install the washer and dryer), Onan 5500 generator (yes, again, the factory will install), slide toppers, and day shades.
2. Think hard about wanting to get the dishwasher option or double-paned windows. RV payload (separate from truck) is tight on the 385FL. A dishwasher is not really necessary (in our opinion) and the double-paned windows are 400-500lbs of unnecessary weight.
3. GET THE DISC BRAKES!!! You'll be happy you did.
4. If you plan to work at all in your 385 - or spend a lot of time doing bills, writing Christmas cards, etc - get the desk option. You lose a couch/bed, but if you don't need it then get the desk. The extra drawer space alone is worth it. I have some desk mods I can share with you.
5. You should get between 25-30% off MSRP. If you can't get your dealer to give you that...go to a different dealer. We drove 1,500 miles to get our RV. We shopped salesperson as much as we shopped RV manufacturer...and won on both accounts. Service wasn't part of our decision because we're full time, four season RVers and our service is ALWAYS on the road at a different location.
Other notes, including mods we've made:
- Added a Ring system with flood sensors in the wet bay, under every sink, and next to washer. I am (and have been) alerted to any water leak in those areas. Other Ring devices are the door camera/doorbell, door/window sensors, and inside camera.
- Added outdoor carpet mats to steps
- Added screen door protector and handle bar
- Added a really good internet system
- Added high-end solar (mentioned above)
- Changed out kitchen island hanging lamps
- Updated headboard with some fabric
- Modified the desk to limit the cables that you see on top and to add more outlets and USB charging connectors beneath the desk
- Installed water filter and softener
- Installed internal EMS power monitor
- Be sure to caulk shower before you use it. Lay a good bead of caulk on the "inside" of the shower door tray (at bottom, and not on the outside...just inside). Check rest of caulk around the inside of the shower door. If you get the shower-insert then disregard.
- Go around the unit (behind the Nautilus panel, under sinks, behind toilets) and hand-tighten all water connections. Don't forget white hoses going to/from water pump.
Last edited:
KevinHazlett
New member
@KevinHazlett - Nice. Did you make the desk? Is that up in the living room slide?
Radiant Forever
Member
Radiant Forever
Member
- Would love to see them add an 8000 lb. axel option.
- Thanks for the heads up on the double pane window weight... anyone know the improvements in R-Value and NRC/STC noise rating differences between the single pane and double pane?
- Would also love to see the 6,500 kw Onan offered.
- On the AC, would love to see the heat pump model offered with soft start or variable speed inverter compressors.
- For the cold floor areas, an option for electric radiant heat would be phenomenal.
- Last, floor and ceiling insulation, injection molded closed cell foam instead of fiberglass. It may add some weight, but I believe it would be a worthwhile option in cold country and also add structural strength gluing everything together.
Some of the wish list would be very easy to implement and offer immediately.... others will take some R&D, but would be worth the effort.
Chelsea FC-PA
New member
Kevin, Thank you! This is awesome! I was just about to look at an Alpine. Not anymore! Can I ask more questions as I go to order?
As of today, 11/2023, there is the Moryde 8k axle/Disc Brake option from the factory @near $13k...
But bolt on aftermarket is only $8800... and you get to keep your original axles...
Does the factory fitment include a 18,800lb GVWR sticker?
I dont know...
I also dont see the desk as an option on the build sheet...
Would adding sheet polystyrene insulation to the underside of the rear bedroom bathroom area help with the cold floor issue?
But bolt on aftermarket is only $8800... and you get to keep your original axles...
Does the factory fitment include a 18,800lb GVWR sticker?
I dont know...
I also dont see the desk as an option on the build sheet...
Would adding sheet polystyrene insulation to the underside of the rear bedroom bathroom area help with the cold floor issue?
Hi @Goldenkey,
Yes, I do believe we bump the GVWR when factory MORryde Independent Suspension is optioned.
We have done some desks as special items. As your salesperson to inquire with their Alliance Rep to see if it’s available on your interested floor plan.
I would think that adding insulation below the floor would be beneficial. In a front bedroom 5th wheel, the front closet and part of bedroom floor is above the 5th wheel overhang.
I have spoken to a person inside Alliance about this very idea (upgrading axles and a new sticker.) They stated that once a trailer is manufactured, the sticker remains. He did say that the upgrade axle option includes frame differences to account for the increased GVWR sticker and it indeed would come with that option. If I were to buy a 385 again I would certainly go for the upgrade myself. The from-factory upgrade price is well worth having the upgraded payload vs. original design on this trailer model.
Sounds like a good question to make your salesperson dig into. I suspect larger front gussets- but that’s pure speculation.
Phil-n-Sunny
Member
(I know I'm late to the party but hopefully for others that are considering the 385 maybe this will help.)
We have a 2023 Alliance Paradigm 385FL. This is our first 5th Wheel. The wife, myself and our cat live in it full time for work. My work moves us about once a year. Currently we are in Central Florida.
The first thing we added was a Blu Tech Trio 3 stage water filter https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B09WRWG493/ref=ppx_yo_dt_b_search_asin_title?ie=UTF8&psc=1
Then we added a dehumidifier. We have to empty it once a day but it keeps the interior humidity in the 30-40% range. https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B095K29Q4B/ref=ppx_yo_dt_b_search_asin_title?ie=UTF8&th=1
We bought an A-iPower GXS7100iRD 7100 Watt Dual Fuel Inverter Generator because life happens 🌪️⛈️ and even at a campground with full hookup I wanted to know that Ill always have A/C or Heat.....
https://www.costco.com/a-ipower-gxs...el-inverter-generator.product.4000078099.html
I still need to add the softstart units to the A/Cs because I intend to be able to run all 3 of our A/Cs off the generator.
Lastly we added Starlink Roam for our internet. I like knowing that even if we lose shore power, via the generator, we will still have internet.
We did not get slide topper awnings because I figure I'm going up there regularly and before we move it to clean it, and I could always add them later.
We did not get Generator Prep because I didn't see the value in that option since the generator is only an emergency backup for us.
Our unit has the standard single solar panel but we did not get the Super Solar Package option because after doing the math for the number of panels and the amount of batteries for us to use solar as our emergency backup was unrealistic. It would add around 1000 lbs of batteries and cost close to $10k for us to run all three A/Cs at night.
We did not get the dual pane window option because the extra cost and weight were not worth it for us and honestly I'm not sure how much of a difference they even would make temperature wise.
Pros:
Cons:
We have a 2023 Alliance Paradigm 385FL. This is our first 5th Wheel. The wife, myself and our cat live in it full time for work. My work moves us about once a year. Currently we are in Central Florida.
The first thing we added was a Blu Tech Trio 3 stage water filter https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B09WRWG493/ref=ppx_yo_dt_b_search_asin_title?ie=UTF8&psc=1
Then we added a dehumidifier. We have to empty it once a day but it keeps the interior humidity in the 30-40% range. https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B095K29Q4B/ref=ppx_yo_dt_b_search_asin_title?ie=UTF8&th=1
We bought an A-iPower GXS7100iRD 7100 Watt Dual Fuel Inverter Generator because life happens 🌪️⛈️ and even at a campground with full hookup I wanted to know that Ill always have A/C or Heat.....
https://www.costco.com/a-ipower-gxs...el-inverter-generator.product.4000078099.html
I still need to add the softstart units to the A/Cs because I intend to be able to run all 3 of our A/Cs off the generator.
Lastly we added Starlink Roam for our internet. I like knowing that even if we lose shore power, via the generator, we will still have internet.
We did not get slide topper awnings because I figure I'm going up there regularly and before we move it to clean it, and I could always add them later.
We did not get Generator Prep because I didn't see the value in that option since the generator is only an emergency backup for us.
Our unit has the standard single solar panel but we did not get the Super Solar Package option because after doing the math for the number of panels and the amount of batteries for us to use solar as our emergency backup was unrealistic. It would add around 1000 lbs of batteries and cost close to $10k for us to run all three A/Cs at night.
We did not get the dual pane window option because the extra cost and weight were not worth it for us and honestly I'm not sure how much of a difference they even would make temperature wise.
Pros:
- The customer service that Alliance has AFTER we purchase. We realise that all manufactures are going to have issues but since we were new to the RV game buying from a company that stands behind their products like Alliance does adds a lot of Value.
- 2nd Bathroom
- Open Kitchen that we both comfortably can work in at the same time.
- The rig is HUGE. Since we are full timing we didn't want something that was too cramped.
- I'm 6'2" and I don't feel like I have to duck my head in the bedroom or the living room.
- Being able to dump the Gray and Black tanks without having to dress up like Im audition for a role in Breaking Bad. (Because using the cable-actuated waste valves I never get close to the sewer hose.)
- The covers on the 2 roof fans close if rain is detected. In Central Florida rain showers happen frequently.
- The A/Cs aren't as loud as I was afraid they were going to be. So far they are more than capable of keeping the rig cool.
- There is a lot of storage in the basement.
Cons:
- Our trailer was built without the advertised Wire Chase from the roof into the basement.
- The refrigerator has an Ice Maker but the factory doesn't run a water line to it.
- The edges of the cabinetry is rough
. For $100K+ I'm amazed that they cant buy sandpaper...... - The stock RV king mattress. Don't even give it to us since I'm sure that we all just throw them away anyways!!! We bought 2 foam mattress from Amazon. https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B07YLF5KYW/ref=ppx_yo_dt_b_search_asin_title?ie=UTF8&psc=1 https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B0CHS79JCM/ref=ppx_yo_dt_b_search_asin_title?ie=UTF8&psc=1
- Heater into the back bathroom will not work... I've seen this complaint from other owners so I think Alliance is just trying to get more out of the system than possible.
- I wish... there were 120v plugs in the living room so I could plug in my laptop while watching TV.
- I wish... the awnings had a wind speed sensor that would automatically close them if it was too windy.
- I wish... I could dump the waste water takes from inside the unit via a servo. (My sewer hose has sandbags so I don't have to worry about it moving around.
) - I wish... the ground effect lights are only on the front end, I would like to see middle and back also.
- I wish... the stairs had lights on them from the factory. We added some solar lights. https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B09YTXCTST/ref=ppx_yo_dt_b_search_asin_title?ie=UTF8&th=1
Pretty much the same cons as my valor 40v13.