Our 2019 Didn't Survive Helene - Questions on 2025 400 Options

Awca12a

It has been a while since I last posted a final update to our 2019 Unofficial Resource Guide and turned the trailer over to the family to make their own adventures. 

Since our 400 Boondock was unable to rise above the flood during Helene, we are back in the market for a replacement.
The dealers available to me have been less than knowledgeable on options so I'm hoping someone here can help out with feedback on the 400. 

1) Have they eliminated the closet entirely with a big refrigerator or can you order/find one with the small refrigerator and full closet?
2) For those with the with Convenience Package boasting 310-watts of solar and 100ah of Lithium who primarily Boondock and rarely hook-up, does the new design still allow 5 days of boondocking assuming decent sun before needing a generator recharge or do you need an upgrade to the black canyon package?
3) For those of you who boondock in the cold with Alde running at reasonable temperatures and normal sun, does the convenience package Lithium hold-up for 48-hours or do you need the black canyon?
4) Are the boondock tires still a unicorn make/model requiring factory sourcing or can they be found in the wild?
5) For those of you who had an older 400 and have upgraded to a new one, any strongly felt opinions that would sway someone's thinking?
6) Lastly, does the factory provide a manual or do I need to write one again?

Appreciate any feedback people have on the Boondock Black Canyon both good and bad.  

qhumberd

Oh my goodness @Awca12a!  Hope your family is all OK. Your manual is the primary reason I understand my 2019 and I have gone over it more times than I can count.

We also have a 2019 that is still doing well so I have no insight into the newer models. But best wishes and safe travels.

Siggy

Retrospectively, I would consider a 2025 over a 2026, because now the exterior compartment doors open downward. Thus the water compartment has to stay wide open all the time when hooked up (I will need to flip it around). Had lots of sand in it after an overnight sand storm as well as in the AC compartment. Furthermore, the walls around the bed are no longer fabric covered which I prefer. Dealer was happy about this though, because after a few years the fabric has the tendency to separate. Saw this at many used one.

Be careful with the wider front storage tub. You cannot take as narrow turns in reverse anymore without the truck’s rear bumper wanting to dent it. How do I know?

Otherwise, the Black Canyon with just 100ah lithium battery and 600+ watts solar make you even during overcast days power-wise independent. On complaints otherwise after 20 days of use and a 1800 miles west TX trip.

gkreitzburg

We found that adding another 100 amp lithium battery was enough for our limited boondocking (harvest host while traveling). The convenience pkg would give you more outlets on the inverter, i believe; and I don't see why the heat would not run for a couple days depending on other battery usage. The manuals are scetchy at best, lol

Mickerly

The big refrigerator replaced the closet. I don't know if the closet returned for 2026. Also the refrigerator sits next to your head while sleeping. Not the best of positions.