Fifth-wheel trailers designed for long-term use have reached a fairly advanced state of development and sophistication. The new Mobile Suite 36RSSB3 from DoubleTree RV starts with an interesting floorplan highlighted by three large slideouts. A freestanding dinette table and a pair of swivel recliners fill the curbside slider out back, and an entertainment center and the galley occupy the opposing streetside slideout. A large fixed-position island-style kitchen unit with a dual-bowl stainless-steel sink is located between the galley slideout and the dining table.
Three steps up and a streetside aisle lead past the curbside enclosed bath to the master bedroom suite where the king bed and large wardrobe move toward streetside in the 11 1/2-foot slideout.
As for the rig’s exterior convenience features, the plumbing and cable TV connectors are grouped behind one access door. A water-distribution manifold and filter — accessible behind a panel in the front under-gooseneck storage area — provides flexible control over water flow for servicing and troubleshooting.
Doubletree throws all the high-end features into this rig’s chassis. A Trailair air-bag-cushioned hitch is standard up front, and our unit was fitted with the optional Trailair air-bag suspension that augments the leaf springs. The standard suspension uses the Trailair EquaFlex rubber-cushioned equalizer along with the leaf springs. An electric-over-hydraulic brake system is standard, as are the Kodiak disc brakes on all four wheels. When you throw out the anchor with this rig, there’s no doubt that it’s doing its part toward scrubbing off unwanted speed.
This 36-footer towed smoothly and stopped with supreme reliability. The gooseneck area feels a bit springy, as happens with some air-suspension hitches, but otherwise it’s solid and stable and does what a good fifth-wheel should, which is to say, it tows like it’s not back there.
Our time in this trailer provided us with luxury-class living. High-grade materials and well-executed construction — plus a well-thought-out design — make this a full-timer’s RV that can do exactly what the manufacturer planned.
Pick up the March 2008 issue of Trailer Life magazine for more info on DoubleTree RV’s Mobile Suite 36RSSB3 — then subscribe to Trailer Life, so you can stay informed on the latest tests, previews, tow vehicles, and technical and RV-lifestyle information.
DoubleTree RV, (260) 562-1075, www.doubletreervsuites.com
