Prime Time Manufacturing RV Exposed: Leaks, Slide Failures, and Costly Service Delays
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Prime Time Manufacturing
Location: Wakarusa, IN
Contact Info:
• info@primetimerv.com
• main (574) 825-8487
• service (574) 825-8192
Official Report ID: 904
Prime Time Manufacturing: Background, Reputation, and What Shoppers Need to Know
AI-powered research tools have systematically collected and analyzed public information to produce this report. Prime Time Manufacturing is a Forest River division (Forest River is owned by Berkshire Hathaway), founded around 2009 and headquartered in Indiana. Prime Time produces entry-level to mid-tier towable RVs—travel trailers and fifth wheels—aimed at value-conscious buyers. Public sentiment shows a polarized reputation: attractive floorplans and pricing offset by recurring quality-control complaints, slow warranty turnaround, and a pattern of safety-focused recalls common across the industry. This report consolidates consumer feedback, recall records, and forum discussions so you can evaluate real-world risks before you buy.
Model Lineup and Parent Company
Parent: Prime Time Manufacturing operates under Forest River, a Berkshire Hathaway company.
Current and Recent Product Lines (Travel Trailers and Fifth Wheels):
- Avenger (including Avenger LT/ATI sub-series)
- Tracer (including Tracer LE)
- LaCrosse
- Fury (toy hauler)
- Navi (compact travel trailers)
- Crusader (fifth wheel)
- Sanibel (fifth wheel)
Some legacy or less common lines may appear on dealer lots as new-old-stock or used, including prior toy haulers or discontinued trims.
Where to Research Unfiltered Owner Feedback
Before committing, immerse yourself in owner communities and third-party reviews for brand-specific realities and failure patterns.
- Facebook owner groups: Join multiple Prime Time-focused communities to read unfiltered owner posts, photos, and repair timelines. Use this Google search: Prime Time Manufacturing Facebook groups (Google search)
- Reddit forums: Search for model-specific threads and long-term ownership updates:
- BBB, consumer review and recall databases:
- PissedConsumer: Use the site’s search box to look up “Prime Time Manufacturing” and “Forest River Prime Time.” PissedConsumer main page
- Independent forums: Browse and use onsite search for model-specific topics:
Independent creator Liz Amazing’s YouTube channel routinely highlights RV industry quality issues and how to avoid them—search her channel for the brand and model you’re considering to see owner case studies and inspection walk-throughs.
Have you owned a Prime Time rig? What happened in the first year of ownership?
Why a Third‑Party Inspection Is Your Only Real Leverage
Do not take delivery without an independent inspection. A thorough pre-purchase or pre-delivery inspection (PDI) by an independent NRVIA-certified or veteran RV inspector is the best way to force repairs while the dealer still wants your signature. Once you sign, multiple owners report lengthy waits for parts and service, cancelled camping trips, and RVs sitting at the dealership for weeks or months.
- Schedule a mobile inspector for a full-day inspection, including water intrusion testing, thermal imaging, roof and underbelly checks, slide calibration, LP system pressure/leak tests, and 120V/12V load tests.
- Make the sale contingent on the inspector’s punch list being resolved—document in writing with dates.
- Search local options: RV Inspectors near me (Google)
For additional buyer beware content and common inspection fails, check out Liz Amazing’s investigations and search her channel for “Prime Time” or your model; her field footage and interviews can help you build a smarter PDI checklist.
Patterns of Reported Problems: What Owners Say Breaks and Why It Matters
Overview of Complaint Themes and Where to Verify
Across platforms—Google reviews, Reddit, RVInsider, BBB filings—Prime Time owners describe early-life defects and systems failures that often trace to rushed assembly and inconsistent dealer prep. Themes include water leaks, slide-out malfunctions, electrical shorts, axle/alignment issues, soft floors, delamination, and warranty delays. Verify these themes via:
- Google: Prime Time Manufacturing water leak problems
- YouTube: Prime Time slide-out problems
- Reddit r/rvs: warranty and service delays
- RVInsider: Prime Time issues
- BBB listing and complaints
Water Intrusion, Roof, and Wall Integrity
(Serious Concern)
Multiple owners report leaks within the first season—commonly at roof penetrations (vents, antennae), front caps, slide room seals, and window frames. Water intrusion can quickly lead to swollen subfloors, mold/mildew, delamination of exterior fiberglass (bubbles or waves), and rot in wood substrates. On entry-level lines like Avenger and Navi, factory-applied sealant can be inconsistent, with missed seams or thin coverage; on mid-tier models like Tracer and LaCrosse, decorative front caps and complex nose profiles introduce more potential leak paths if not properly sealed.
- Ask inspectors to perform moisture mapping, infrared scans, and probe tests along corners and slide roofs. Require resealing and re-caulking prior to delivery if readings exceed acceptable levels.
- Look under the belly for signs of trapped water or sagging coroplast; soft spots near bathroom and kitchen indicate chronic leaks.
Research examples and owner threads: Google: Prime Time Manufacturing water leaks, YouTube: Prime Time leaks, Good Sam: leak discussions.
Slide-Out Mechanisms and Alignment
(Serious Concern)
Owners frequently cite slide rooms that fail to fully seat, rub flooring, or jam due to synchronization issues—especially on Schwintek-style in-wall systems used on lighter models. Misalignment can damage seals, introduce leaks, and prevent slides from retracting in camp—stranding the RV. Reports include motors failing under load and controllers faulting after batteries dipped below proper voltage. Fifth wheels like Crusader and Sanibel may use electric or hydraulic slides; both require precise setup and robust 12V supply.
- Insist on multiple full-slide cycles at delivery with shore power disconnected to test performance on battery. Confirm slide sweeps and seams are uniform with daylight checks.
- Inspect gear tracks for metal shavings; look for torn wiper seals and crushed bulb seals.
Reference complaints: Google: Prime Time slide-out problems, Reddit: slide issues, RVInsider: slide problems.
Axles, Weight Ratings, and Tires
(Serious Concern)
Common owner reports include overloaded rear axles when lightly optioned trailers are loaded for camping, premature tire wear indicating alignment problems, and under-specced tires close to their maximum rating. Some Forest River divisions have faced running changes or label-related recalls where cargo carrying capacity and tire pressures were misstated. When the real-world payload is slim, a few gallons of water and gear can push a trailer over its GVWR.
- Demand a certified weight ticket with full fuel/propane and typical options installed. Weigh again after loading to confirm axle and tire limits aren’t exceeded.
- Inspect leaf springs, shackles, equalizers, and U-bolt torque; look for unusual camber and scalloped tire wear.
Check recall and complaint data: NHTSA recalls: Prime Time, Google: axle problems, Reddit: tire blowouts on Prime Time.
Electrical Systems, Wiring, and 12V Reliability
(Serious Concern)
Owners document 12V shorts from pinched wiring behind panels, miswired GFCIs, and converter/charger failures that leave slides inoperable and batteries dead. In several narratives, faulty wiring behind the entertainment center or in slide looms caused intermittent tripping and warm outlets. Loose bus-bar connections and poorly crimped ring terminals at the distribution panel are recurring themes in entry-level lines.
- Request a load test on 120V circuits (microwave, AC, outlets) and a converter output test; verify proper polarity and GFCI protection.
- Open accessible junction boxes with the inspector and tug-test splices. Use a thermal camera while running loads.
Owner accounts and threads: Google: electrical problems, YouTube: electrical issues, Good Sam: electrical problems.
LP Gas, Heating, and Hot Water Systems
(Serious Concern)
LP system leaks, faulty regulators, and water heater ignition problems appear in complaint histories. Some Forest River divisions, including Prime Time, have had recalls tied to LP components or appliance installs—issues that, if unaddressed, risk fire or carbon monoxide exposure. Misrouted flex lines in slide cavities and loose fittings are not unusual in field reports.
- Require a leak-down test and soapy water test on all LP joints. Verify furnace and water heater cycling under load; check for CO detector age and function.
- Confirm water heater bypass and winterization valves operate and don’t leak under pressure.
Safety and recall lookups: NHTSA: LP and appliance-related recalls, Google: LP gas problems, RVInsider: furnace/water heater complaints.
Plumbing, Tanks, and Fitments
(Moderate Concern)
Complaints include loose PEX connections, leaking traps, incorrectly glued ABS fittings, and tank sensors that read full/empty regardless of actual levels. Fresh tank supports occasionally sag if filled while towing, and waste gate cables can seize, making dumping difficult.
- Pressure-test the system and inspect under-belly for drips. Verify tank strap integrity and clearance around fittings.
- Use a clear sewer elbow at delivery to test gate valve operation; if gritty or binding, demand cable or valve replacement.
Owner threads: Google: plumbing problems, Good Sam: tank sensor issues, Reddit: plumbing leaks.
HVAC (Air Conditioning and Heating) Performance
(Moderate Concern)
Airflow and ducting inconsistencies manifest as hot/cold spots and short-cycling AC units. Duct joints can be poorly taped, and returns may be inadequate, causing the unit to ice up. In fifth wheels, owners report thermostats misreading due to poor placement near heat sources.
- Ask the inspector to measure delta-T and airflow at multiple vents; open plenum to confirm foam sealing and duct connections.
- In larger floorplans, consider a second AC or soft-start kits to ensure adequate cooling while boondocking.
Research owner fixes: Google: AC problems, YouTube: AC fixes, RVInsider: HVAC complaints.
Interior Fit-and-Finish, Furniture, and Cabinetry
(Moderate Concern)
Owners frequently cite peeling vinyl on faux leather furniture, stapled trim popping off during towing, misaligned cabinet doors, and drawers that won’t stay latched. In some models, thin subfloors under heavy recliners or dinette stapling points loosen early, leading to squeaks and soft spots.
- Pull drawers and inspect slides and latches; sit on each seating position while the inspector checks floor deflection.
- Verify overhead cabinet anchors bite into structure, not just thin paneling.
Examples and photo threads: Google: interior quality issues, Reddit: quality control discussions, RVInsider: furniture complaints.
Doors, Windows, and Seals
(Moderate Concern)
Entry doors out of square, windows with inadequate butyl tape, and slide bulb seals torn during first cycles are widely reported. Stiff or misaligned baggage doors lead to broken latches and water ingress into storage bays.
- Run a flashlight test along door and window perimeters to detect gaps. Hose test the entry and baggage doors for intrusion.
- Carry spare bulb seals and latch hardware; ask the dealer to provide extras in writing as part of the sale.
Verification sources: Google: window leak problems, Good Sam: seal failures.
Factory QC, Dealer PDI, and Warranty Backlogs
(Serious Concern)
Owners consistently describe a pattern: incomplete factory punch lists combined with shallow dealer PDI allow obvious defects to slip through—missing sealant, loose fasteners, non-functional appliances. When issues surface post-sale, warranty authorization and parts delays can strand RVs at dealerships for weeks. Some BBB complaints and forum posts cite multiple cancelled trips while waiting for basic parts like slide controllers, window replacements, or trim.
- Make your purchase contingent on a robust, written PDI checklist and verify completion with dated photos.
- Have the dealer order common failure parts in advance (extra latches, seals, fuses, anode rod, cabinet hardware).
See public complaints: BBB: Prime Time Manufacturing, Google: warranty complaints, Reddit: warranty delays.
Real-World Owner Narratives: Patterns to Note
Entry-Level First-Year Failures
(Moderate Concern)
Owners of Avenger, Navi, and Tracer LE variants describe discovering 15–30 defects within the first month: non-working outlets, poor trim fitment, screws backing out of slide facias, and plumbing connections weeping under pressure. Some said dealers deferred repairs for weeks due to parts backorders. These patterns suggest the need for longer, slower delivery appointments where every system is tested.
Cross-check: YouTube: new RV issues, RVInsider: first-year problems.
Mid-Tier Feature Hype vs. Field Performance
(Moderate Concern)
Several LaCrosse and Crusader owners say advertised “residential” features disappoint in practice: thin mattresses, limited thermal performance without skirting, and multiplex or control panels that freeze. Cosmetic upgrades can mask the same underlying construction methods used in lower lines—OSB flooring and similar insulation levels—leading to expectation gaps and buyer remorse if shopping by brochure rather than by build inspection.
Evidence trails: Google: LaCrosse problems, Google: Crusader problems, YouTube: Crusader issues.
Fifth Wheel Structural and Seal Complexity
(Serious Concern)
Sanibel and Crusader owners note that front cap seals, upper deck transitions, and slide topper installs must be perfect to resist water. Any misalignment increases leak risk exponentially because water runs down into basement storage or onto slide boxes. Inspectors often cite inadequate cap sealant coverage and inconsistent sealant tool-out along J-channels.
Owner and tech discussions: Good Sam: Sanibel problems, RVInsider: Crusader leaks.
Have you encountered these issues? Add your field notes for other shoppers.
Safety Recalls and Known Defect Categories
How to Check Your VIN for Recalls
Use the NHTSA database to search by brand and cross-check by VIN: NHTSA Recalls – Prime Time Manufacturing. Typical RV recall categories seen in the broader Forest River ecosystem—and reported by Prime Time owners—include:
- LP regulator or appliance installation defects (risk of leaks or non-ignition)
- Awning or ladder attachment fasteners backing out (risk of detachment)
- Incorrect weight labels and tire pressure placards (overload hazards)
- Wiring harness chafe points causing shorts
- Emergency exit window adhesive issues (egress failure risk)
Always verify that recall remedies were completed, and request proof from the dealer in writing. If recall parts are constrained, consider walking away until the fix is done. See broader recall discussions via Google: Prime Time Manufacturing recalls and owner experiences on Reddit recall threads.
Warranty, Service Delays, and Consumer Remedies
Warranty Performance and Common Disputes
(Serious Concern)
Owners frequently report delays in parts authorization and shipping, leading to extended downtime. Some say dealers require factory approval for even minor parts, then stall. Others report being told issues are “wear and tear,” not covered. If the selling dealer is non-responsive, getting warranty service elsewhere can be difficult, as many RV dealers prioritize their own customers.
- Document every defect with photos and dates; submit written requests to both dealer and manufacturer.
- Escalate unresolved claims via BBB and state consumer protection offices if communication stalls.
See examples: BBB: Prime Time, Google: warranty issues, RVInsider: warranty problems.
Legal and Regulatory Warnings
Based on the types of complaints we reviewed, potential legal exposure for manufacturers and dealers includes:
- Magnuson-Moss Warranty Act: Requires written warranties to be honored as stated; deceptive or unclear warranty terms can attract FTC scrutiny. If warranty service is not provided within a reasonable time, consumers may seek remedies including attorney’s fees.
- State Lemon Laws and UCC: Some states cover RVs or RV components under lemon statutes; otherwise, the Uniform Commercial Code’s implied warranty of merchantability may apply if the product fails basic functionality shortly after purchase.
- NHTSA recall obligations: Safety defects must be remedied at no cost; delays or incomplete remedies may warrant NHTSA complaints.
- FTC Act and state UDAP laws: Unfair or deceptive acts and practices—including misrepresenting weight capacities, features, or fitness for purpose—can trigger investigations.
File complaints or research case history via: Google: Prime Time complaints, BBB complaint listings, and NHTSA reporting linked above. If you’ve navigated a warranty dispute, what resolution did you receive?
Product and Safety Impact Analysis
Safety Consequences
(Serious Concern)
Failures in slide systems, brakes, axles, and LP appliances can escalate beyond inconvenience to genuine safety hazards. Slide-outs that won’t retract can strand you on site; electrical shorts can ignite combustibles behind walls; mislabelled weight ratings can cause tire blowouts at highway speed. LP leaks and improper appliance installs risk fire or CO exposure. These are not theoretical risks—owner reports and recall bulletins substantiate them across multiple model years.
Learn from field incidents: YouTube: safety incidents, Google: fire/electrical issues.
Financial Risk
(Serious Concern)
Even when defects are covered under warranty, owners face significant financial impacts: weeks of lost use, storage fees, non-refundable campsite reservations, and travel costs to and from the dealership. Post-warranty, repairs—delamination, slide rebuilds, roof replacement—can run into the thousands quickly. Some owners report diminished resale value once a unit has a reputation for leaks or structural problems.
- Mitigate risk by obtaining a comprehensive inspection and demanding repair completion before delivery.
- Budget a 10–15% contingency for early-life fixes if you cannot secure rock-solid PDI outcomes.
Owner cost discussions: Reddit: repair costs, RVInsider: resale value concerns.
Prime Time vs. Expectations: Where the Gaps Form
Marketing Features vs. Construction Reality
Brochure features—LED lighting, “residential” decor, outdoor kitchens—look great at a glance but don’t necessarily reflect stronger structure. Several owners conclude that the construction core (framing, sealing, insulation, systems routing) didn’t match marketing promises. This is not unique to Prime Time, but repeated owner testimony suggests shoppers should evaluate structural build quality more than cosmetic features.
To calibrate expectations, watch independent reviews and owner tear-downs on channels like RV consumer advocacy videos by Liz Amazing, then search her channel specifically for the model line you’re assessing.
Pre-Delivery Checklist: Action Items for Prime Time Shoppers
- Hire a third-party inspector: find RV inspectors near you. Make the sale contingent on punch list completion.
- Water intrusion defense: moisture map, IR scan, roof/slide seal inspection; insist on resealing where readings are high.
- Slide systems: cycle each room repeatedly on battery power; verify uniform seals and no floor rubs.
- Axles and weight: obtain a pre-delivery weight ticket; verify CCC, axle ratings, and tire load indices match real-world loading.
- Electrical: polarity and GFCI testing; converter output under load; thermal imaging of panel and high-load outlets.
- LP systems: leak-down test, appliance cycling, detector age; document regulator brand/model and installation date.
- Plumbing: pressurize to spec; check traps and PEX connectors while running all fixtures; test gate valves with clear elbow.
- HVAC: measure delta-T and vent airflow; verify plenum sealing; discuss second AC if borderline.
- Fit-and-finish: open every cabinet and drawer; tug-test mounts; sit/stand on high-traffic areas to check deflection.
- Documentation: ensure you have a printed PDI checklist, photos of punch list fixes, recall confirmation, and a list of spare parts provided by the dealer.
Did your dealer honor a fix-before-delivery promise? Tell us how you enforced it.
Owner Sentiment: Signal vs. Noise
Not every Prime Time buyer has a negative experience. Some report relatively trouble-free use after early warranty touch-ups, and certain dealers deliver meticulous PDIs. There are also reports of timely recall remedies and improved communication on recent models. But the volume and consistency of complaints—leaks, slide issues, electrical faults, and service delays—should weigh heavily in your decision and your negotiation strategy.
- Balance your research by reviewing both 1-star and 4–5 star reviews to identify patterns vs. outliers.
- Compare model years: late-year runs sometimes incorporate mid-cycle fixes; early production can be higher risk.
For comparative owner experiences and diagnostic walk-throughs, browse independent creators and search terms like “Prime Time Manufacturing Issues” on YouTube and Reddit. Again, check Liz Amazing’s channel and search for the specific Prime Time model you’re weighing to see detailed owner-driven inspections and practical fixes.
How to Escalate and Protect Your Investment
- Escalation path: dealer service manager → regional manufacturer rep → written complaint to manufacturer → BBB complaint → state AG or consumer protection office → small claims or attorney consultation if necessary.
- Preserve evidence: timestamped photos/videos, written communication, repair orders, and shipping notices for parts.
- Alternative service: if the selling dealer delays, seek independent RV repair shops for non-warranty work—sometimes faster and ultimately cheaper than weeks of lost use.
- Extended service contracts: be cautious. Many exclude water intrusion or “wear items.” Read every exclusion prior to purchase.
Additional research starting points: Google: Prime Time issues, RVInsider: owner reports, and YouTube: user testimonials.
Dealer Selection Matters—Even More with Prime Time
Multiple owner threads emphasize that the dealer’s quality control and service department make or break the ownership experience. A strong dealer can catch and fix factory misses before you ever hook up—weak dealers rely on you to find defects later. Interview dealers about:
- PDI length and procedure (ask for their checklist in advance)
- Parts stocking for common failures on your model line
- Average warranty repair turnaround times and how they schedule non-emergency work
- Post-sale priority for out-of-state buyers
Whenever possible, pay more for a dealer with a documented track record of thorough PDIs and speedy service rather than chasing the lowest sticker price.
Frequently Reported Model-Specific Notes
Avenger and Navi (Entry-Level Travel Trailers)
(Moderate Concern)
Reports highlight sealant thin spots, light-duty furniture wear, misaligned windows, and limited cargo capacity. First-year leaks and electrical gremlins are not uncommon. Inspect thoroughly and plan to reseal early.
Sources: Google: Avenger problems, Google: Navi problems.
Tracer and LaCrosse (Mid-Tier Travel Trailers)
(Moderate Concern)
Slide synchronization and seal issues come up frequently. Cosmetic upgrades don’t always equate to better structural sealing or higher-spec running gear. Check weights, axles, and slide performance carefully.
Sources: Google: Tracer problems, Google: LaCrosse issues.
Fury (Toy Haulers)
(Moderate Concern)
Check garage floor tie-downs, fuel station lines, ramp door seals, and weight distribution. Owners report minor leaks at garage doors and concerns about real-world cargo capacity when hauling toys plus water.
Sources: Google: Fury problems, Reddit: Fury issues.
Crusader and Sanibel (Fifth Wheels)
(Serious Concern)
More complex rooflines and slides heighten leak and alignment risk. Inspect upper deck transitions, pin box area, and basement walls for moisture with IR scanning. Hydraulic leaks and leveling issues are also reported—inspect cylinders, hoses, and pump mounts.
Sources: Google: Crusader problems, Google: Sanibel problems.
Final Pre-Buy Strategies to Reduce Risk
- Slow down the delivery: negotiate a multi-hour walk-through with all systems under load; don’t accept rush pressure.
- Bring a ladder to inspect the roof; verify sealant continuity and slide topper tension.
- Demand proof of completed recalls; confirm VIN status at NHTSA.
- Negotiate an “early-life defect clause” with guaranteed scheduling within 10 business days for initial warranty punch list items.
- Lock in loan and insurance only after PDI success to preserve walk-away leverage.
- Have a backup campground plan in case the unit needs immediate post-delivery service.
- Line up an independent inspector: search RV inspectors near me.
If you’ve achieved a smooth Prime Time purchase, what did your dealer do differently?
Balanced Notes: Improvements and Manufacturer Responses
To maintain objectivity, we note that Prime Time (and Forest River) does process warranty claims and recall remedies, and some owners report effective repairs and improved experiences on later model years. Product updates sometimes address common failures mid-cycle, and a good dealer can correct many factory misses before delivery. However, the weight of public complaints—especially involving water intrusion, slide systems, electrical reliability, and warranty delays—indicates that shoppers must proceed with heightened caution and proactive inspection strategies.
Bottom Line: Should You Buy a Prime Time RV?
Prime Time’s value-forward pricing and popular floorplans are appealing. Yet, the concentration of owner reports detailing early-life failures and prolonged service delays signals above-average risk without an assertive, inspection-first approach. If you still choose Prime Time, your success will hinge on the dealer’s PDI rigor, your willingness to walk if defects aren’t corrected pre-signing, and your investment in independent inspection.
Given the volume and recurrence of defects documented across public reviews, forums, and recall databases, we do not recommend Prime Time as a first choice for buyers seeking low-hassle ownership. Consider alternative brands with stronger quality-control reputations or be prepared to enforce a strict, inspector-backed delivery process before taking possession.
Have thoughts to add for future readers? Post your ownership lessons learned.
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