Palomino Columbus - RV-Dreams Community Forum

Frac999 · RV-Dreams Family Member

Palomino Columbus

Terry and Jo · RV-Dreams Family Member

Steve,

There was a thread earlier in the year that was about that brand and model. I've not been in any of them, but some of the things I found out online didn't exactly make me warm and fuzzy. However, others have differing views. Below is a link to that previous thread.

Columbus by Palomino - Does Anybody Have One or Know About It

There is a little more at this link, although the discussion that regarded the Columbus didn't start until about July 22. (You can see that date to the left side of the forum page under the username.)

Ride of the Ford F550 vs F450

Terry

VanMar · RV-Dreams Family Member

Frac999 wrote:
Anybody heard of the Columbus and is there any feedback on them?

I recently re-visited the Palomino web site. I think they must have read that previous thread on this forum. The 'standard features' list for the Columbus has been upgraded to reflect the answers to the questions everybody asked.

Vance

Frac999 · RV-Dreams Family Member

We are going to go look at one tomorrow and decide, excuse me my wife will let me know what she wants to do. They look pretty nice.

rvingft · RV-Dreams Family Member

Have you seen what RV.org rates the Palominos at? It's worth the 1-time investment to get a database of 2000 year models to current year so you can check scores on thousands of models BEFORE you make an expensive mistake! I don't sell it or get any kick back, I just totally believe in their independent rating system. They do not take advertising from manufacturers.

Fastmullet · RV-Dreams Community Member

We purchased our 2013 Columbus 325RL in August of this year. So far, two trips made with two more planned. Very minimal problems. First was a "thunking" noise from the fireplace. Easily fixed by removing the fire place and filing down 2 of the paddles. Second is the outdoor stereo. Radio reception is poor. My guess is the antenna is not plugged in but the tool to remove the stereo was no where in the owners manuals. Trip to a stereo shop will get what I need to fix it. Second AC unit is a little loud, but I think this is common for units with dual air. I took the time to label all of the light switches in the control center as there are many of them and this got confusing the first two trips. Also, why didn't Palomino put a light switch by the entry door to turn on the hall way light upon entry? Makes things hard in the dark when you first enter. Now for the good stuff. Our unit has the automatic 4 point leveling system with JT strong arm stabilizers which I am glad we spent the extra money on. Love the shower! I actually look forward to showering each night after our previous unit having a small neo-angle that was cramped at best. Rota flex pin box and suspension make towing a dream compared to our old unit. Great fit and finish with only small bugs to work out so far. The king bed with the Trump mattress, what's to say but good nights sleep. Very pleased with the unit. Unit is 11227 empty and my 2000 F350 7.3l tows her nicely.

Jo And Craig · RV-Dreams Family Member

While we are not yet fulltimers, we have been researching for almost the past 2 years. At our first RV show here in Houston it was love at first sight... we fell in love with the Forest River Columbus by Palomino. Well, after much research, we have moved on from that unit. What is most important to us is, first, the foundation of the unit and, second, the size of the tanks as we plan to boondock quite a bit. So, our consideration has moved on to the DRV Mobile Suites and the Luxury Lifestyle 5th wheels. I do believe we will eventually end up with the Lifestyle LS36FW, the same unit RJ and Melinda on this board have just purchased. While some on this board have a DRV Mobile Suites, I feel it is just too heavy to haul, especially in mountainous regions. Important features are different for everyone, but what I like about the Lifestyle unit is (1) GREAT counter space in the kitchen, (2) the kitchen has a window, (3) the washer/dryer hook-ups are in the hallway and not in the closet, (4) we can access the bedroom through the bathroom if we are not able to push out the slides, (5) the basement is a good size, and includes access to a second basement area in the very back of the unit, and (6) there is a seat in the shower, among many other fantastic features. Good luck in your research. It all boils down to what is important to you and you, alone.

Bobbi · RV-Dreams Family Member

I *highly* recommend perusing the Forest River forum, and navigating to the Palomino section. It's here: www.forestriverforums.com/forums/f96/
Also, there is a Columbus Facebook group, and anyone would be happy to answer your questions. Give yourselves enough time to become familiar with the known issues and get feedback from owners.