More about the 15a

[Escape While You Can]

The Escape 15 thread got a bit derailed, so I thought I'd start a new one, one more specifically to ask what everyone thinks about the resale value of a new 15a since they're no longer being made. I'm thinking of getting one of the two left (assuming they're still available), but if I decide it's not working out for me, what do you all think about resaleability? Also, a few of you chimed in already, but I'd like to hear more about the pros and cons of a 15a. It's just me and my dogs, and I boondock and seldom stay in campgrounds and a Portapotty's fine. Anything else I should consider?

Will also add that I've owned a 17b and hated trying to drag it into the back country - always worried about damaging the pipes underneath.

 

[Jim Bennett]

I have always maintained that the 15A gives the most trailer for its size. Willingness to forgo the space hogging bath in a trailer that size, makes it feel very roomy.

Personally, I would think that there would be no issue at all with resale, as there will always be someone looking for what this trailer offers. Just because it does not fit well into Escapes production line with the popularity of the larger units, does not make it any less viable to someone wanting what it does have to offer.

As well, I would not be all that concerned with dragging a 17B into the backcountry. One does have to be cautious, but if it was raised a bit with a high lift axle, I would not worry too much. I have drug my 19 into some areas that had pretty rough access, I just took it slow and easy.

 

[Escape While You Can]

Thanks, Jim. I was dragging in a few places, but I didn't have a lifted axle. I spend most of my time in the Utah backcountry and frequent some bad roads that I think the 15a would love.

 

[Karen H.]

There have been several posted opinions about how difficult it might be to sell a trailer in this day and age with no bathroom facilities, but there will always be someone out there like me who wouldn't have it any other way. It just may take a bit longer but that person is there. Space-hogging bathrooms...an understatement in my opinion. With windows all the way round, there is a good feeling of openness in these little guys. You may find that it is everything you want or need anyway and not want to sell it.

 

[Oregonian-ESC]

If it were just myself, not a family of four, I would have one of those new 15A's in my garage in a heartbeat!

 

[Brian B-P]

Entirely aside from the saleability of a travel trailer without a bathroom, I think whether or not the model variant is currently in production will have little if any effect on reselling it. The manufacturer is still around and successful so they are available for support, and there are no unique parts to this model which would be replacement problems, so I don't see why it would matter if the model is still made.

 

[amirie]

Just think of how fast the old Bolers and Trilliums still sell....and they haven't been in production in YEARS!
A new Escape even without a bathroom should be even more desirable..

 

[Kærnehuset]

Bolers and trilliums, some of the prices are crazy for a 30 year old trailer. We love our 15A.
Scot

 

[Canadark]

I was also considering picking up one of the 15As, after the 15B was snatched up so quickly.

I spoke with Reace about retrofitting some options to give the 15A some more creature comforts and to make it more off-road-worthy. Everything I asked about was doable at this point on the remaining 15As:

-- add Hot Water Heater and Exterior Shower (he said there maybe an upcharge for this because there would be some extra fiddling needed to insert the tank)
-- dual batteries
-- dual propane
-- underbelly insulation
-- high lift axle
-- aluminum rims

If you can deal with the porta-potty, this is an awesome rig. My spouse said NO to the idea of upsizing from a VW campervan to a $20k+ trailer unless it has a loo. If the 15A had showering facilities, it would make resale easier, I imagine.

 

[kootenaigirl]

I agree with Canadark. If I was looking at the 15A I would want it to have hot water and the outside shower and think it would really help resale.

 

[Escape While You Can]

Only one left...

 

[LeonardS]

The Silver Graphics one got snapped up. Since they announced they won't be taking orders, it's their hottest selling trailer.

 

[Oregonian-ESC]

Two down, one to go...

 

[Escape While You Can]

Yup - I bought it (the silver one).

 

[Sandra L]

Congratulations! You are in for good times.

 

[Escape While You Can]

Thanks - can't wait to go get it! And the Escape team is the best. And according to the VIN#, I got the last one they made, I think. ends in 41

And thanks for all your comments, everyone!

 

[Karen H.]

How exciting for you...I hope you love it as much as I do mine!

 

[Escape While You Can]

I love it already, sight unseen.

Karen, have you made any mods to yours?

 

[rbryan4]

Yup - I bought it (the silver one).

Congrats! The 15 is a fine piece of work. End of an era.

 

[Karen H.]

Karen, have you made any mods to yours?

I did a few things; check out the last few pages of this thread: http://www.escapeforum.org/forums/f13/egbert-is-home-2285.html