Teton’s tradition is that of building fifth-wheel trailers sized like the mountains they’re named after, but the company does make smaller models that can be pulled by the largest pickups, avoiding the need for medium-duty trucks to prevent overloading. The Teton Sunrise Experience is one such fifth-wheel. With full-time-living amenities, three roomy slideouts and a long list of high-end features, the 33-footer represents the upper crust of highline, pickup-towable fivers.
Our road-test 33-foot Experience, actually 34-½ feet long, rode on the optional MOR/ryde IRE rubber-block independent-suspension system that offers the choice of a 2- or 4-inch lift for tow rigs with taller beds. Offered but not included on this trailer are a 3-inch lift for the entire unit, air suspension and electrohydraulic disc brakes. During our testing near the gross vehicle weight rating (gvwr), we never had any problems with suspension or brakes, and neither did the fragile items packed in the trailer.
While the Experience has been lightened substantially during the last few years, luxury components add weight. With full freshwater tanks and LP-gas cylinders, this tri-slide put 14,280 pounds on the scale, leaving 670 pounds of payload capacity for stores, provisions, clothes and reading material, unless you travel without filling the water tank. Running with only 20 gallons will allow owners to pickup about 400 pounds for extra supplies. The Teton felt solid on the road, following the tow vehicle delightfully, never upsetting the truck, the occupants or the interior furnishings.
Those who already own a heavy-duty pickup may find this fifth-wheel a safe-and-sane match, provided it has the most robust towing hardware available from the factory. The price of this trailer is right up there with the most costly fifth-wheels on the road, but the Teton appears to be proof that you get what you pay for, and will continue to for years to come.
Pick up the October 2003 issue of Trailer Life for full test impressions and details on the Sunrise Experience 33′ — then subscribe to Trailer Life — so you can stay informed on the latest tow vehicles, tests, previews, and technical and RV-lifestyle information.
Teton Homes, (307) 235-1525, tetonhomes.com
