Exchange Rate
In the past few years and more recently in 2016 we have seen huge fluctuations in the CAD/USD exchange rate. As many of our customers are aware the RV industry is primarily built in northern Indiana; thus making RV dealers the direct importer of the product, which directly affects the price of trailers.
Being that in the last few years we moved from a par dollar to a few months ago 68 cent dollar and now holding between .76 and .78 the roller coaster has been amazing to say the least. I often hear that well we are going to wait because they believe the dollar will get better or that the price of trailers is up over 25% from a few years ago. On the surface these points may be the case. However I think we need to look a little deeper.
The first point to look at is the exchange rate itself. The general synopsis of current bank and expert material is the United States economy is heating up and on a continuous growth swing; coupled with world economic turmoil the Green Back’s strength is going to remain. Not to say there will not be fluctuations, but it is the general expert opinion that for the next few years we will be looking at an exchange rate in the high seventies to low eighty cent range. Thus RV prices will remain were they are for the foreseeable future.
The retail price change in trailers is not a direct connection to the percentage change in the dollar. First, the exchange rate only affects the dealer cost of the trailer; second, many dealers hedge or participate in future contracts when trading US dollars and third many dealers will cost average or reduce margins to help compensate for fluctuations in retail price. These factors combined significantly reduce the effect of exchange rate fluctuations have on retail prices.
It has been a hot beautiful summer and consumers should just get out and enjoy the family vacation they want and let the dealers worry about the exchange, we want to earn your business and will do our best to reduce the impact of such fluctuations so you can enjoy your vacation time with a new trailer.
Toy Haulers for Everyday Camping
Toy Hauler trailers and 5th wheels began their existence as glorified utility trailers. They were a way of moving your bike, ATV, golf cart with a place to sleep. Today they are so much more and fantastic trailers even for people without a power sports toy to put in the garage.
Toy Haulers are incredibly versatile and can have all the luxuries of home. These incredibly adaptable trailers provide a place for your BBQ, camping gear, bikes and anything else you want to bring camping; with no extra equipment needed. They provide sleeping for the whole family plus guests and can be equipped with generators for total off the grid camping. Additionally, the garages become a screened in patio and what better way to hosts guest but in a bug free outdoor space.
Come into Great Escape RV and we can show you our selection of great toy haulers and how adaptable camping can be with these boundless trailers.
Find your trailer first
So often we meet people who buy a vehicle in order to tow an RV only to find out the bed is too small, wiring is not designed for RV’s or the new vehicle simply cannot tow the trailer of their dreams and end up settling for something smaller or not quite right for their trailering needs.
If you are in the market for a new vehicle and would eventually like to tow a trailer or 5th wheel with this new vehicle pop on by and we will happily walk you through some trailers. Once we find the trailer of your dreams we will happily discuss vehicles capable of towing it and what you may want to discuss with your automotive dealer.
Hitching/Weight Distribution
The dealership is now in its 5th season and after trying many brands and types of weight distribution and sway control systems there are some clear leaders in the field.
There are two primary parts of a weight distribution system: first the weight distribution portion which balances the weight of the trailer across all axles allowing for a more level and smooth ride. Second, is sway control which is either friction or tension based and designed to control the side to side movement of the trailer, thus reducing movement during windy or choppy air conditions.
With many options to choose from, picking a weight distribution system can be a daunting task. Generally, systems are package in two separate ways; first as a weight distribution hitch with separate friction based sway bar. Second; as an all in one system were the sway control is designed into the connection between the weight distribution arms and the trailer.
The next step is to choose the weight category or tension level. This will be determined by the weight and tongue weight of the trailer being purchased. To figure this step out look at the dry or unloaded vehicle weight; add an allowance for gear, water if you travel with it, and propane. The average weight added to trailers is around 150lbs per person traveling with the trailer and then take 13% of this total to establish the approximate tongue weight. Alternatively, have the dealer measure the trailer using a tongue weight scale. These measurements will determine the hitch rating required. Matching a hitch is important as using one rated too low will flex and not properly reduce sway; matching one rated too high will be too stiff, causing an uncomfortable ride and even damage to the trailer or tow vehicle.
The next stage is to now choose a brand and after trying many products and styles of weight distribution systems; a few leaders have stood out in the past five years. In the economy priced category we stock and generally recommend the Fastway E2 product line. The line installs easily with no drilling and is an all-in-one system. These units are ideal for situations when additional control is needed but the trailer is well under the capacity of the tow vehicle. In the premium level we stock and recommend the Blue OX system which has excellent customer feedback; works well with independent suspension vehicles and is easily upgraded with a larger trailer purchase.
Come by the dealership and investigate all the weight distribution options. Our expertly trained staff will happily help you find the weight distribution system that best matches your individual situation.
