bigcamtom
Ventura County
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Joined: 10/17/2008
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Does anyone have any experience with the Winnebago Chalet? I am looking at the 2007 and 2008 31c. My understanding is that the Chalet brand is made exclusively for rentals (as these were) and are a hybrid of the Access and Outlook.
Problem is I cannot find info on them on the Winnebago web site (want to find info such as GCVW and GVWR, etc). I like the 31c model for it substantial Exterior Storage (so many Class C's with slides have so little exterior storage).
The units I am looking at have less than 15k miles and from what I have read Winnebago has a very high customer satisfaction rating. The dealership/rental location has been in business for well over 20 years.
Any thoughts are appreciated.
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pauldub
North of Seattle
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Joined: 11/01/2005
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Yes, the Chalet is a rental model. If it has a flat roof, it's structurally like the Access. If the roof isn't flat, then it's structurally like the Outlook. Beyond that, I think the only differences are decor.
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PapPappy
Wilmington, NC
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Joined: 12/23/2007
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I think you'll find that the rentals are missing many of the options that you might want, such as the awning and a trailer hitch on the rear. The interior is usually set up for low maintenance, with leather seats, no carpet, curtains, but no darkening shades, etc.
You will probably spend a couple of grand to get those things installed...and with that money, you might be able to find a better deal.
With that said, the Rentals are often pretty good, as the dealer usually realizes that Preventive Maintenance will keep the RV on the road, and that is when he'll be making money! A rental that breaks down, does not a happy camper make!
If you find that you are happy with what is offered, and the price is right, go for it...just realize that many conventional dealers are offering pretty substantial discounts on RVs, and there are quite a few out there, that will be the "upgrade" of the Chalet!
I have the Winnebago 31C, and we love it. But, don't believe that just because there is a lot of storage area, that you can safely carry a lot of stuff....unless, you're into transporting feathers or something light! You still have to figure the safe working weight for the tire, and suspension....the Cargo Carrying Weight (CCW) should be posted inside one of the cabinet doors in the coach.
You might want to call Winnebago's Customer Service, to ask your questions....I'm sure they would be happy to assist you.
Good luck
Bill & Claudia / DD Jenn / DS Chris
Dogs: Sophie, Abby, Brandy, Kahlie, Annie, Maggie & Beau 
RIP: Cookie (Sheltie) & Gidget (Lab-mix) over the Rainbow Bridge.
2000 Winnebago "Minnie" 31C, Ford V-10
Purchased April 2008 FMCA# F407293
The Pets
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tatest
Oklahoma
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Joined: 05/14/2005
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They won't be on the website, that's focused on providing information to potential retail customers
Go to the dealer that is selling them, look at the units, see if it is what you want.
Tom Test
Itasca Spirit 29B
2001 Ranger Edge
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bigcamtom
Ventura County
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Joined: 10/17/2008
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The units I am looking at do have quite a few features: Upgraded Interior Package, Entertainment Center with external CD, Awning, Rearview monitor with audio, Exterior shower, Rear air springs, Fantastic Fan, Electric entrance door step, second battery, Trailer hitch with 7 pin connector and a few other things. I think the only thing "missing" is a TV in the bedroom and Hydraulic leveling jacks. Price is just under $60k and has 12,000 miles. Sound like a decent price?
I currently have a pop-up so this would be a significant jump for me so I need a little (a lot of) reassurance!
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kazmir
Santa Cruz, CA
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Joined: 10/25/2005
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We bought a Winnie Chalet from El Monte last March and love it. Its like the 24V I believe. We have alot more miles on ours and have had no issues with the motor and all the appliances work well. It came with a 30 day bumper to bumper guarentee and we used ours well during that period. I would make sure to have something like this for yours also so check out all the appliances once you get the rig off the lot if you decide to buy.
Good luck!
2005 Minnie 24V
Family of Four with lots of toys!
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FrontRangeRVer
8,600 feet elevation in the Rockies
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Joined: 07/22/2005
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I wouldn't buy anything that had rear air springs.
2006 Winnebago Voyage 35A
W-22 Chassis
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