2013 Open Range Residential R417RSS Review
Everyone loves weekend getaways. Some head for the beaches, while others head for the campgrounds. Most people drive back to their suburban homes after a few days of fishing and barbequing. But there are those of us who want to take up a more permanent residence in the wild outdoors. If you’re looking for a home on wheels, then check out the 2013 Open Range Residential.
Four floorplans are available to choose from – we’ll be exploring the R417RSS. We love its combined kitchen and living room space. It has a gross vehicle weight rating of 14,386 lbs and an unloaded vehicle weight of 11,795 lbs, along with a dry hitch weight of 2,386 lbs, a dry axle weight of 9,409 lbs and a gross NCC of 2,591 lbs. The R417RSS has an exterior length of 39’3”, an exterior width of 100” and an exterior height of 155”. As well, the unit has a fresh water capacity of 85 gallons, a gray water capacity of 82 gallons and a wastewater capacity of 41 gallons.
Built on a steal-beam frame, the Residential’s layers of luan, block foam insulation, SymaLite 12000 and Lamilux 4000 High Glass Fiberglass combine to create a strong skin that protects the unit from outdoor weather. The R417RSS is built with superior Accu-Slide technology. This technology operates above the floor, creating extra storage space within the RV. Its lightweight design also saves on fuel. The heating system has proven to be reliable in all of Open Range’s fifth wheels and the holding tanks are designed to heat all sides of the RV adequately. Everything is insulated so heat gets delivered to the tanks, maximizing performance. A bright LED light is located outside so you can have evening barbeques, without worrying about burning your food or losing the kids.
The Residential takes entertainment seriously. Lovers of electronics will be excited about the flat screen TV in the living area, which rests beautifully above an electric fireplace. While you watch the game, your kids can roast pretend marshmallows by the pretend fire. Your TV comes with a digital TV antenna and a multi-port satellite hook-up. For music lovers and radio listeners, there’s also a 12V CD/DVD/MP3/iPod Stereo.
If there is only one cook in your family, then the small residential kitchen is perfect. It is conveniently located beside the entertainment center so the cook can watch his or her favorite shows while preparing dinner. The kitchen is equipped with heavy-duty full extension drawer guides, which open and close smoothly. Raised panel cabinet doors are perfect for hiding cereals, pots and spices. Throw trash into the pullout wastebasket, nicely hidden from plain sight. Corian countertops are easy to clean and maintain, while the stainless steel sink comes with a spray faucet. Optional features include: HiRise stainless steel faucet, stainless steel sealed burner, stainless steel refrigerator and stainless steel convection microwave. These appliances will add luxury to your kitchen and might motivate other family members to start cooking.
When you gotta go, go in the stylish bathroom. Equipped with a foot flush porcelain toilet, and a modern bowl sink, this bathroom is far from your typical RV grooming station. The one-piece fiberglass shower has a sliding door and the medicine cabinet has a mirror. One downside to this bathroom is the mirrors are small and high up. Short folks and young kids might have a hard time seeing their reflections.
At the end of the day, escape your bedroom. Although small in size, the R417RSS has plenty of storage space. Wood framed sliding wardrobe doors open up to reveal a deep storage compartment where you can keep folded clothing and electronics. You can get wood blinds on the windows to match the bedroom furniture. The wardrobe comes with two large mirrors and is perfect for hanging shirts and coats. If you enjoy watching TV before bed, an optional 26” model is available. Two can sleep comfortably in the large bed.
Open Range loves giving its customers options. If you love the cozy feel of a fireplace, then you can get one installed in the living room. You can also request a Dyson Vacuum cleaner to help keep your Residential dust-free. If you’re a lover of interior design, you might want to class your place up by getting all dark wood. If you plan on camping in the desert, then buy an additional Fantastic Fan to keep that indoor air flowing. Many more options are available to choose from, which is great because your Residential is specifically designed for your needs.
The 2013 Open Range Residential R417RSS retails for around $80,000. For more information visit: http://www.openrangerv.com/.
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