Prime Time-Crusader RV Exposed: Leaks, Slide Failures, Frame Flex & Warranty Delays

(Serious Concern)

Arrange a third-party inspection before signing anything. This is your last major leverage to identify defects that the dealer must correct before they get your money. Without it, many buyers report getting pushed to the “back of the line” once issues surface—sometimes for months—derailing paid reservations and entire travel seasons while the RV sits at a dealership service bay or lot. Hire a certified inspector with a moisture meter, thermal camera, and underbelly access experience. Get everything in writing, including agreed repair timelines and parts orders. Search locally to compare credentials and reviews: Find RV inspectors near me.

Inspection focus areas for the Crusader commonly include slides, roof and cap seams, frame/pinbox area for flex, axle alignment and tire wear, underbelly for wet insulation and tank support, propane system pressure tests, and GFCI circuit behavior. Consider a repeat inspection at delivery to ensure promised fixes are complete.

(Serious Concern)

Owner accounts frequently describe cracked or insufficient sealant at the roof-to-cap seams and around roof penetrations. Water finds its way into the luan or insulation, leading to softened decking or delamination around the front cap and slide roof corners. Several buyers report discovering wet underbelly insulation during their first season, a telltale of leakage running down interior cavities. Verify these claims by searching: Google: Prime Time Crusader Water Leak and Reddit r/rvs: Prime Time Crusader Water Leaks.

• Owner narrative themes: “Weep holes” blocked with sealant; early cracking on lap sealant; water-stained front wardrobe floors after storms; musty smells near nose cap.
• Financial impact: Water damage spreads invisibly; remediation can exceed the cost of routine maintenance by thousands.
• Advice: Inspect cap seams, clearance lights, and slide roof edges; request reseal and water intrusion test before delivery.

(Moderate Concern)

Even when the main roof looks sound, water can infiltrate via slide roofs, especially if toppers are poorly tensioned or seals don’t fully mate. Reports mention wet carpeting just inside slide openings and swollen subfloor at slide corners. Evidence threads are easy to find: Good Sam: Prime Time Crusader Slide Leak Problems and YouTube: Prime Time Crusader Slide Leak.

• Owner tip: Ask your inspector to cycle slides in the rain or with a hose test; examine seal contact patterns and debris channels.
• Long-term risk: Recurrent leaks can delaminate sidewalls around slide openings, an expensive structural repair.

(Moderate Concern)

Owners of Crusader models with lightweight slide systems (common on smaller bed or dinette slides) report out-of-sync motors, racking, and stalls. Running the slide while batteries are low or when coaches are out of level can worsen symptoms. Documentation and DIY discussions abound: Reddit r/RVLiving: Prime Time Crusader Slide Problems and YouTube: Prime Time Crusader Slide Problems.

• Reported fixes: Controller re-sync, motor replacement, upgraded rollers, or slide adjustment at the dealership.
• Practical risk: A failed slide can strand a family at a park; towing with slides stuck out isn’t feasible.

(Moderate Concern)

Heavier living-area slides are typically more robust but can still fall out of adjustment, leak, or rub flooring. Owners note scraping noises or uneven seals on one side. See community experiences: Good Sam: Prime Time Crusader Slide Adjustment and RVInsider: Prime Time Crusader Slide Issues.

(Serious Concern)

Across many fifth-wheel brands that use similar frames, “frame flex” near the pin box and upper deck is a recurring hot-button issue. Crusader owners report creaking when hitching, cracked caulk/trim at the nose, and stress lines in front caps—classic signs of flex. Left unchecked, some fear stress can migrate to the sidewall or bedroom deck area. Investigate this risk by searching: Google: Prime Time Crusader Frame Flex Problems and forum dialogues via RVForums (search “Crusader frame flex”) and RVForum.net (search “Crusader pin box crack”).

• Owner advice: Open the bedroom closet and inspect walls/floor while someone raises/lowers the front landing gear; look for movement and stress marks.
• Mitigation: Some owners add reinforcement plates or undergo dealer/frame shop repairs under warranty when caught early.

(Serious Concern)

Owners frequently report uneven tire wear soon after delivery, indicating possible alignment or axle issues. Blowouts on lower-spec OEM tires can cause fender and underbelly damage. Search owner threads: Google: Prime Time Crusader Tire Blowout Problems and Good Sam: Prime Time Crusader Axle Issues.

• Inspection checklist: Confirm correct load range tires, check age codes, inspect for feathering/scalloping, and weigh the rig (axle and pin weights).
• Owner practice: Many quickly upgrade to higher-quality tires and add TPMS and wet-bolt suspension kits.

(Moderate Concern)

Factory nylon bushings can wear quickly on heavier fifth-wheels. Reports cite clunking noises, sloppy handling, and uneven ride height. See example discussions: Reddit r/rvs: Prime Time Crusader Suspension Problems and YouTube: Prime Time Crusader Suspension Upgrade.

(Moderate Concern)

Consumer reports highlight nuisance GFCI trips (especially on exterior outlets), mystery shorts, and early converter/charger failures. Miswired battery disconnect switches and reversed polarity incidents appear in owner forums. For examples, review: RVInsider: Prime Time Crusader Electrical Problems and YouTube: Prime Time Crusader Electrical Issues.

• Safety note: Electricity and propane systems warrant professional diagnostics; request torque checks on lugs and a full panel inspection.
• Mitigation: Test every outlet; keep a logbook of breaker trips and conditions (shore power vs. generator).

(Moderate Concern)

From loose factory clamps to mis-crimped fittings, Crusader owners describe wet cabinet bottoms and slow drips beneath sinks or showers. Hidden leaks may appear in the pass-through or underbelly. Investigate patterns: Google: Prime Time Crusader Plumbing Problems and Good Sam: Prime Time Crusader Water System.

(Moderate Concern)

Classic RV gripe: sensors reading 2/3 full when empty. Owners also note soft underbellies and concerns about tank straps/supports in transit. See owner tips and fixes: Reddit r/rvs: Prime Time Crusader Tank Sensor Problems and YouTube: Prime Time Crusader Holding Tank Issues.

(Moderate Concern)

Several owners claim the Crusader’s climate control struggles during heat waves or cold snaps, despite “extended season” marketing language. Ducting issues, insufficient return air, and poor sealing at registers are mentioned frequently. Cross-reference: RVInsider: Prime Time Crusader AC Problems and YouTube: Prime Time Crusader Furnace Problems.

(Moderate Concern)

Reported issues include refrigerators not cooling evenly on propane, water heaters cycling, and microwaves failing early. Confirm specifics: Google: Prime Time Crusader Refrigerator Problems and Good Sam: Prime Time Crusader Water Heater Problems.

(Moderate Concern)

Numerous owner reviews cite misaligned cabinet doors, gaps in trim, protruding staples, and loose screws found after a single trip. Excess sawdust in ducts and behind panels is another common complaint. Browse examples: YouTube: Prime Time Crusader Quality Issues and RVInsider: Prime Time Crusader Quality.

(Serious Concern)

Among the most frustrating themes: owners report extended waits for authorization and parts, and sometimes finger-pointing between dealer and manufacturer. Some say cosmetic and sealant defects are called “maintenance,” leaving new buyers to pay out-of-pocket. Evidence sources include the BBB search for Prime Time Crusader and aggregated complaints via Google: Prime Time Crusader Warranty Problems. Firsthand reports on Reddit r/rvs also describe canceled trips and extended downtime.

• Documentation: Keep a chronological log: dates reported, photos, dealer responses, and part backorder notices.
• Strategy: If possible, negotiate pre-delivery corrections and written timelines. Consider a mobile RV tech for out-of-warranty items to avoid dealership queues.

(Serious Concern)

Crusader models across different years have appeared in recall notices (common RV themes include propane fittings, axle/suspension hardware, and label noncompliance). Owners sometimes miss recall letters after moving or changing mailing addresses. Always check the VIN against the federal database: NHTSA recalls for Prime Time Crusader. If a recall applies, the manufacturer must remedy it, typically at no cost. Delayed repairs can increase safety risk, especially for propane or suspension items.

(Moderate Concern)

Some buyers find pin weights and real-world loaded weights exceed brochure expectations, putting them near or over the limits of 3/4-ton trucks. Uneven cargo loading and full tanks can push axles close to capacity, contributing to tire wear and handling issues. Review community threads: Reddit r/GoRVing: Prime Time Crusader Towing Capacity and Good Sam: Prime Time Crusader Pin Weight. Always weigh your rig at a CAT scale and confirm payload on the driver’s door sticker of your truck.

(Moderate Concern)

Owners sometimes say “extended season” packages do not match freezing-weather performance, with waterlines or low-point drains freezing and underbelly heat not sufficient for extended subfreezing stays. Conduct due diligence with owner videos and winterization threads: YouTube: Prime Time Crusader Winter Camping and RVInsider: Prime Time Crusader Cold Weather. Consider realistic expectations: space heaters and skirting may be needed.

(Serious Concern)

Based on a broad sample of owner reports and complaint data, the most consequential Crusader issues affect both safety and finances:

• Water intrusion can undermine the structure and indoor air quality. Mold exposure and soft floors are health and safety hazards that also devastate resale value.
• Axle/suspension and tire failures carry a high risk of loss of control, fender fires, and roadside emergencies—dangerous for families and other drivers.
• Electrical faults and propane leaks pose fire and explosion hazards; improper wiring or loose connections can escalate suddenly.
• Slide failures can trap occupants or render the unit un-towable at a campsite, leading to expensive emergency service calls.
• Service delays magnify costs: lost trips, hotel stays, storage fees, and added transport to and from service centers.

We recommend an inspection and a strong pre-delivery checklist, along with written timelines for post-sale service if defects are found. If you have safety-related experiences with your Prime Time Crusader, post what happened so others can learn.

(Serious Concern)

This report is not legal advice, but it highlights common avenues of consumer protection:

• Magnuson-Moss Warranty Act (U.S.): Requires clear warranty terms and prohibits deceptive warranty practices. If a manufacturer or dealer fails to honor stated coverage, owners may have legal recourse.
• State Lemon Laws and RV-Specific Statutes: Coverage for RVs varies by state and may differentiate between the motorized chassis and the “house” portion of an RV. Consult a consumer attorney in your state to understand thresholds and remedies.
• Implied Warranties and UCC: Some states recognize implied warranties of merchantability; disclaimers may be limited or controlled by statute.
• NHTSA: Safety defects must be remedied under recall. Check the VIN regularly: NHTSA Recalls for Prime Time Crusader.
• FTC & State Attorneys General: Misleading advertising claims (e.g., “four season” capability) could draw scrutiny if materially deceptive. Document marketing materials, brochures, and sales representations.

Document all issues with dates, photos, and repair orders. If you suspect warranty violations or unfair practices, consider filing complaints with your state AG, the FTC, and the BBB. You can start with the BBB directory for Prime Time Crusader to review patterns and file your own report.

(Serious Concern)

• Independent inspection: Book it before final payment: Find an RV inspector near you.
• Water intrusion test: Hose test around caps, slides, and windows; moisture meter interior walls/floors.
• Slide function: Cycle each slide multiple times on shore power; verify seals and alignment.
• Electrical load test: Run AC(s), microwave, and outlets simultaneously; test GFCIs; confirm converter output voltage.
• Propane and appliances: Leak test, burner flames, water heater on gas/electric; fridge performance after 12–24 hours.
• Axles/tires: Check tire date codes and torque, inspect alignment, and carry TPMS from day one.
• Underbelly/tanks: Fill and drain tanks; watch for leaks or bulging in the coroplast.
• Documentation: Demand written commitments for repairs with dates and parts orders.

If any major defects appear and the dealer won’t commit to timely repairs, be prepared to walk. Your leverage evaporates after signing. For a second opinion, search for another inspector: RV Inspectors near me.

(Moderate Concern)

Some owners of newer Crusader model years report better fit-and-finish than earlier units and note successful recall repairs handled at no charge. Floorplan updates, improved furniture, and optional upgrades like auto-leveling can enhance livability. It’s also fair to note that many RV issues are supplier-related and affect multiple brands—not just Prime Time—due to shared components (frames, axles, appliances).

That said, the burden still falls on the manufacturer and dealer network to ensure QC, stand behind warranties, and source parts quickly. Before buying, cross-check with current-year owner threads to see if earlier problem patterns have improved: Google: Prime Time Crusader 2023/2024 Problems and YouTube: Prime Time Crusader Review 2024. Also see educational content about managing expectations and vetting dealers on Liz Amazing’s channel. Did you see improvements on recent units? Report what you’ve observed in the showroom or on your own rig.