neato

It would look good behind a VW

Visited the T@B this weekend and loved it, but was shocked by the pricetag of $14,000 for what amounts to a tiny playhouse on wheels.

I like looking at the T @ B, but think its way over priced, and low on features. But its a step in the right direction, maybe someone else can build something a little more practical along these lines.

We got one for ours for $9,000 + tax/license. Still a little too much for what you get, but we truly love and enjoy our T@B! We love to camp (in comfort), but can't see ourselves hauling something almost as big as our house...

T@B is just comfortable and small enough for our liking! We see ourselves keeping it for a looong time! We added a small microwave and a portable water heater (for showers), and now it's perfect and has everything we need.....

Yes it's overpriced, but it's the only travel trailer I can tow with my Subaru Outback 4 cyl. I miss having a travel trailer and I don't want to go buy vehicle to be able to tow one. It's a great little trailer with great looks and is actually a great price when you compare it to a new Airstream at over $30K. There's room to add to it like some others have, we're looking forward to our purchase!

I just bought one. I think people are missing the high calibre of technology on this thing. The chassis and braking system is superb (both by AL-Ko of Germany). The aluminum skin is long-lasting. The windows and doors are high quality, european style. I have seen many for $10K with furnace, 3 way refer, and even one at that price on rvtraderonline.com with a/c. This puts it in only about 1-2K more than a casita or scamp 13 foot trailer-- and those are smaller and have smaller beds. I just towed my T@B 800 miles behing a Suzuki XL-7, and I could maintain 60 mph up mountain highways. The T@B at 15 feet weights the same as the 13 foot Casita. I like it.

We needed something narrow & light for Baja adventures and thought we wanted an A-frame until we saw the T@B. The interior, ease, & storage just blew the A-frames away. And prices are comparable. We love ours after many nights camping in it w/2 dogs. Huge bed. Add a $70 porta-potti & you're self-contained. This is the simple RV for tent & van campers. I go camping (like, in the woods!)& don't want to be in an asphalt lot in a motel room on wheels. The T@B is so much FUN!

I agree that it is overpriced. My wife and I saw it and immediately we were drawn to it. The bright colors really appealed to us. It made you think of the beach or some just plain fun. However, it's not much camper for the price. In NC they wanted around $13K for it. I was thinking it should have been around $5K MAX. We went and looked at A-liners, but the pricing on them is just as bad. I hope that someone can bring this type of line for those of us with subarus and saabs (towing capacity 2000lbs and below). More importantly though, I hope the price is as catchy as the camper!! I even looked at the teardrop line, but I just don't think it would meet our needs. There isn't even room enough for a table or chairs. Maybe in a few years we'll be able to afford a used T@B.

I have a T@B got it in Feb 04. we love it miss a toilet but otherwise it get us out to enjoy why we went camping in the first place.

We are in our 60's have been camping about 45 years in all kinds of units.

Looking for the brave to make a driving trip to Alaska in May of 2005. We went in 03 can't wait to get back. We live in Florida and would like to find other T@B owners. RAY

Does anyone know who manufactures the custom awning for the T@B?

Mine came with an awning that I don't plan to use. Make me an offer. steve@mofam.com

Debra:

Just saw your inquiry -- we've been on our first outing in our new T@B! The awning is made by National Tent & Awning, Inc.Firethorne Drive, Goshen, Indiana 46526. It is not as automatic to put up as a large roll/pull-down awning on a big camper, but it is very nice once it is in place. It follows the curve of the camper, arching from front to back down to about about knee height! It comes out quite a ways from the camper and gives ample room to cook and sit a couple chair underneath. It is a bright orange/yellow floral pattern. We found that it immediately traps heat up underneath on a warm day and bugs in the evening, but it kept us dry in downpours of rain. It also held up to wind and storms. Otherwise, we just downscaled from a large camper, and think the T@B is the answer to our dreams of cooking outside and sleeping comfortably inside.

Just pulled my T@B-2 3500 miles through Colorado, Wyoming,Montana,Idaho,Oregan and Washington to my son's home in Vancouver B.C. I easily tucked it into his off alley parking place, where he parked a Volvo. This is another great aspect of the T@B, the many uses in this case a Father in law apartment.

I got the 2004 T@B-2 With frig,furnace and power vent in Denver for $9900.00

Always wondered what the T@b stood for; possibly: "Thor at Bristol"(Indiana)?

According to Dutchmen, T@B stands for "Taking America Back" as in going back in time to less complicated days. In Europe the original trailer is made by "Tabbert" and is also called a T@B.

Got mine six weeks ago and absolutely love it!

There's a very active T@B user's group on Yahoo at: http://autos.groups.yahoo.com/group/tabtrailers , come on by and visit for awhile.

Bob T

i think they are great i ve looked for awhile. I want to sell them i love them

wiljo11@msn.com Anyone seen any used ones. I miss the bath. I want to know what the lowest price is anyone has seen. email me joe

I want to travel now that I am retired. Can a Subaru Baja pull one of these T@B trailers ?

I am thinking of starting to camp and travel alone and saw a T@B at at used lot for $8900.00. (The Tent or Popups seemed unweidly for one person) I thought that was high. It seem from your notes it is about right. Is it easy for one person to use?

You can have a portable shower (outside use) with heater in it! Use the Coleman water heater + shower spout + pop-up changing room. Around $260. altogether. It will solve the problem of not having a shower. And it's still portable and easy to transport!

Still thinking of purchasing a T@B and would consider one for $9000. It's good to see that others have arrived at the same price. Now to get my hands on one...

Just Purchased the T@B T1 or T16 for $8995.00 in Southern CA. Alittle small, but we cook outside, great sleeping for 2 people. Very Cute and everyone at the Campgrounds wants to know where to get one!!!! Holly holly0047@yahoo.com

Has anyone purchased the TENT for the T@B Trailers? I have an awning, but the Factory in IN told me that there is a tent that fits into the same grove as the awning. I can't find it anywhere on the net. My email is: holly0047@yahoo.com

A new T@B YAHOO! group has been formed.

http://groups.yahoo.com/group/tab-rv/

Bought our new T2 on ebay last weekend from dealer in Rochester, NY. Paid $6700. Camped in Alleghany State Park on the way home. Wonderful! People were almost wrecking, rubbernecking as we drove the interstates. Great fun! Now for the customizing to make it truly our own.

I'm looking for a used T@B....can not afford the retail price. Any leads would be appreciated!

Thanks!

Kent

We just saw our first T@B in Michigan. Now we want one. Preferably used. Anybody know where to either find the best deal on new one in this neck of the woods or a good used one?

Used is unlikely. Since they have been out only 1 year and under 800 were sold nationwide, you won't find many used. The posting above indicating a purchase of a T2 for $6700 is LESS than the only used T@B which sold on eBay. A year-end close out is probably the only way to get a T@B and save money.

The tab is neat. I have been looking into them for awhile now. what is stopping me (or slowing me down) is that I want to retro fit it with a rear hatch to get a motorcycle in. sounds crazy I know, but has anyone attempted such an undertaking?

Mike

I am also trying to find out if some sort of a tent can be purchased that can be attached to the T@B. I am interested in buying one, but have a large dog and given the lack of floor space.... Am considering not buying AC - how well does the "power vent" work?

1) I don't think you could cut the back and load a motorcycle. The floor is not at all level near the back, and the integrity of the whole unit would be compromised. Better to start from scratch and design something specific to your needs.

2. The vent is very powerful, but in a hot enough climate you'd miss the a/c.

hi i just bought mine execpt for the sales talk and a great desire for a teardrop large enought for my 6ft.plus height i belive i will do a lot of camping even with high price has basic needs except shower and rest rooms i would like know where in louisville ky. the location of campgrown any know let me know ok happy camping bill

Hi: My tab is less than two weeks old. Bought it on a close out in OKC for $5900. I have wanted one for about a year now and I was there to see the recently opened Camping World store. When I saw it, I was just curious about the price so I asked. When the salesman told me they were closing them out and quoted me the price I said I'll take it. A couple days later at the pre-delivery inspection I was really surprised when I learned it has all the options except air conditioning. Bringing it home to Lawton (100 miles) it pulled great and was not affected by anything, 18-wheelers et al. It did turn a lot of heads though and drew comments at the tool booth. It is really a get up and get out of here vehicle and the quality is unbelievable. The window construction and ability to open to the open air with the retractable screens and shades is great. I can get away from here in a fraction of the time it takes to hook up the big trailer. It is very impressive. Oh, the quote was a mistake, they really want $5999 but let it go for $5900. There may be a few more end of year closeouts across the country if people look real hard. Bill

The headliner on my T@B2 is

buckeling. The dealer said they may have to replace the

top of the trailer (the whole

thing) does this sound right?

Anyone had this problem?

norman, several people are having this problem: check out the Yahoo group "tabtrailers", there have been many discussions on this problem, and one other owner is having the whole roof replaced, others are having repairs instead (re-gluing)

I live in southern California, but will take delivery of a T@b out of state if the price is right. Does anyone know of a close-out deal on a new one in their state? Thank you for your comments.

My T@B and two others from my dealer are on thier way to the factory for top replacement, after the one sent to the dealer was found to be delaminating.

To Norman Williams -

Who is your dealer and where is he located?

Our headliner has a couple of places that seem a little loose and I injected glue with a syringe. So far not a big problem.

Re: the price is too high. The reason my wife and I got a TAB, is because it is beautiful to look at and it has high quality components. Maybe one of the reasons we like it is that It is influenced by the German Bahaus design and we had met in an art class with a teacher from the Bahaus. I would hate to see it cheapened and made to look like most of the other trailers that seem to be designed by drunken Howard Johnson architects.

We got the air conditioner, a porta potti and we have had a ball We also love to look at it just sitting under the trees at home.

I took my T@B to the dealer so as to not void my warranty.This is a common problem,(headliner buckling)

a bit to common,German desing

built in Ohio.At this price there should be zero defects.

Norman Williams

I am interested in purchasing the TAB T16. I live in Boulder, Colorado. Anyone know of a good deal in the Denver area?

Karene,

I just bought mine at Ketelson Camper's in Wheat Ridge. They have a few models in the lot.

I was unsure about a T@B. Was driving thru Mississippi and saw a dealer. Stopped and had to have one. Got a 2005 for $8500. Pulled T@B to our home in Wyoming without any problems. Sleeps great. Cant wait to go camping. I think we will love it. Does the Ice box keep ice pretty good. Did not get the fridge.

My wife and i are going to take a look at the T@B this weekend. Can anyone give some insight on financing options, what terms (months) are available. Does the convential 10 year financing apply? Also, any insight on a final negotiating cost would be great. We're looking at the aluminum model, with most options the dealer has it priced at $12,800. THoughts?

Hi,

my wife and I just took delivery on our 2004 Orange Crush with a/c, fridge, awning and we love it. It stays in our car port and either her or I or our two kids have slept in every night since. My 10 year old daughter and I took it to our Mini (as in Austin,Morris,Cooper) club meet and slept in it there. Everybody wanted to tow it. The Mini weighs 1300 lbs, the new 2400 lbs, both did it fine. Although I would use a classic Mini, the New Mini can take all the way.

Our headliner too is sagging across the center.

- The awning is made is Denmark, not Indiana, and is award winning- for its looks.. We haven't tried it yet. My wife is now gone on a 4 day trip by her self and her T@B. She dosen't drive a stick and refused to tow our 21 foot camper (which rotted away), but called from the state park 200 miles away and said it was very windy and rainy but the T@B was a breeze! She loves it!

One more comment about the bubbling headliner. I'm not sure shell is put together in the US. The aluminum/blackfoam/plywood skin is manufactured in China, then sent to Holland or Germany where its assembled as a body, attached to the alloy AL-KO frame (which means ALbert KObert and is one reason for the cost/ the wheels and then shipped to the US for customizing for the US market. I'm afraid to let them tear mine apart should it be necessary. I have waited too long to finally (honestly) find a camper that is meant to use outdoors.

Bo/

Go to the factory web page to see how the top is assembled in Goshen IN. My top was replaced and I'm pleased with the result.

The best part is they left the logo off (at my request)

Norman

Thanks Norman,

I will try to find the address. I am trying to join the Yahoo group tabtrailer, but Yahoo cant sign me up "at this time" for two days, error 999, any ideas? I want to talk TAB with people to try to meet and maby organize something locally. We camp in Florida State parks 10 times a year and don't know if we can make it to SD, although we'll try.

Bo/

Does anyone have any information on the T@B XL? It is the big brother to the T@B. Has a bathroom/shower and additional space.

Thanks

Rob

The XL is a beautiful thing,unfortunately it is only available in Europe. It is 20ft long,has a bathroom on one side kitchen on the other, bunk beds in the front,and a T@B-like U-shaped booth in the back. The interior is comparable to an Airstreem. It sells in Germany for about 20,000 euros.I have a link I can forward to a web address, same thing with the T@B factory photos. Norm

I don't know if this has been mentioned: tab-out-of-line.de.

Home page of the mother company Knaus Tabbert for the little silver bullet. Really cool T@B stuff but no accessories, unfortunately.

Bo/

Hi Norm and Bo:

Would love to take a look at any additional information you might have on the T@B XL. After seeing it, I am hooked.

Rob

Just ready to finalize a deal on a new 2005 T@B...our local dealer really tried to screw us...pushing the 2004 models, he had us believing a new '05 would be around $17m fully loaded. So I decided to send out a RFP Request for Proposal...send my very specific requirements, was up front that I was contacting ALL the dealers in my 5-state area, and got some VERY GOOD pricing (well, I'm hoping....). Shipping a T@B trailer (aluminum) will cost me about $550...not bad, considering I'm saving a few thou. The best bid I got was $9999 for a fully loaded 05 aluminum model. Any last-minute thoughts on whether this is a good price or not?

Thanks. Cynthia

Cynthia:

If you do not mind me asking, what area are you in? I am looking for a new T@B as well and would love to see what other dealers quoted you.

Thanks,

Rob

Cynthia, I also would be interested in what area you are in, and how you typed up your RFP. I live in the Phoenix, AZ area and to my knowledge there is only one dealer in the state. They are asking about $12,500 for the clamshell model with air/heat pump but no fridge or other items except a radio. I certainly wish they had better looking trim on the outside of that model (very poor look compared to the rest of the lineup). However, I much prefer to cook outside when camping and fishing, and the pass through from the outside kitchen to the inside is very nice. One of the nicest features that I really like, is that it has three windows that open instead of the normal two on the other models. I did notice that in Europe they have other floor plans that we don't have here that have 3 opening windows (the window on the front is the one that is added)and I saw one with a rear kitchen on the inside that looked very nice in the photos. I talked to someone who said that after they purchased a t@b they now go camping every week because it is so easy to get going and then to clean up when they come back as compared to monthly before the tab. One last comment (sorry to be so long winded) but at the local dealer I did see a photo of a T@B rally where someone actually had the full screened in tent/screen porch made for the T@B (not the awning) and it looked very nice.

Thanks,

~jerry

I've been looking into the t@b for the past 6 months and recently saw a HGTV episode which showed a t@b that had a outside kitchen in the back. Is this the t@b or the tab by airstream. I can't find this tab on the t@b web page or airstream as appears in the credits on HGTV web site.

The web address for T@B is

tab-rv.com

T@B is made by Dutchmen which

is owned by Thor Industies,

who make Airstream. Norm

Karen Brewer

kbrewer@dutchmenmfg.com

has been a good sorce of T@B info. for me. Norm

I applied to the Tab group on Yahoo a few days ago but have not been accepted. Has anyone else had this problem? I've tried two times but no luck!

We purchased a new 2004 T@B from a dealer in Orlando, FL. Our unit has the 13" tires and wheels. However it came with the 15" low profile tire and wheel as a spare. Has anyone else had this happen ? Does anyone want to buy this tire and wheel, or swap for a 13" tire and wheel ?

Thanks

If you can log on to Yahoo - try going to tabtrailers@yahoogroups.com

The folks there may be able to help you.

P.S. We're having a National T@B Rally in Keystone, SD in June. If you're interested in joing us - again go to tabtrailers@yahoogroups.com

Hi, All!

My wife and I just purchased a new 2005 T@B. We got the clamshell version with the kitchen in back. We had our shakedown trip and LOVE the T@B. The dinette on the inside folds into a really comfortable bed - almost Queen size. Ours came with the portapotty and there was a place in the cabinet (area where the other models kitchen is) where the portapotty fits right in. It is out of sight until you need it.

It rained really heavy and there were no leaks, drips, wheelwell problems, etc.

I am interested in a lot of the modifications people are doing (mounting a generator on the tow tongue, making a city water connection, etc.

We are going to a rally of T@Bs at Newport Beach, OR in July. Once I check out what others have done, I will begin to map out what I might want to do.

The T@B-RV site is awesome. You can see my trailer by going to the Photos section and selecting the folder, Rocinante (name of my T@B).

Enjoy!

My husband and I are looking for something small, we don't like the big bulky trailers we've seen the T@B and I really like it although we have a 9 year old we are hopefull that very soon she will want to escape us and sleep in a tent. Showers are not neccesary I have a portable one but a radio and micro would be nice. the local dealer (San Diego Area) was asking 13K with all the options than mistakingly said it was sold for 12K the next day. He also told us that he had another one coming but the price was close to 16K because it was a 2006?? Than the next day said that the one coming would probably be only $700. more the the original 12K.?? So I called another dealer out of the area and he quoted me 13K. so than I went online and found 4 T@B's out of state (Washington, Florida, Indiana) for around 9K?? It is so confusing to know what the real price is. I really don't want to pay so much. Any suggestions?? Thanks

I was wondering if anyone had pictures or could tell me how you put a micowave in this, also someone mentioned a water heater for showers?? also loking to add a radio? Any suggestions would be helpful. Thanks

I went to Walmart and bought a GE JES738 700 watt ($35) microwave lowered the shelf in the colset 10 in. and set in the microwave.I put plywood on top of the microwave the width of the closet creating a shelf.On that I put a Sony ICF-M410V

TV/Weather/FM/AM/radio from Target ($40) added two self-powered speakers from Radio Shack an iPod and a FM transmitter, creating a complete system.Close the door to the closet and it all goes away. Norm

P.S. I have added a 12volt plug.

My husband and I just traded in a 18' Springdale which was loaded for the T@B. Wanted something easier to pick up and go with. Retired, planning a joint camping trip w/ our son and his family this summer which will involve meeting them in Michigan (we're from Connecticut) and driving out to Yellowstone, Grand Tetons, Mt. Rushmore, etc. Our son has a BIG travel trailer, so we reserved 2 spots at each campground, and plan to use the T@B as a private little bed and breakfast for us. It appears to be a perfect solution for people who just want to pick up and go whenever. We travel with a cat. The cat box fits under the table. Our T@B has the heat pump/air conditioner and we will be adding a port-a-potti, small micowave and a clock radio. The less we have to pack the better. Suits us just fine.

Just bought a 2005 T@B. Cherry Red in the AluFiber....has all the bells and whistles available. I love it and I can't believe the people that stop and want to know more....

pulls so easy with my jeep wrangler (red jeep matches T@B)...

randy

A question for Janice, if she's still reading the forum. You said you travel with a cat. I have two cats that I would love to travel with. I'm concerned about them not having enough room to move around. They are young, just about 2 years old, so they are still quite active. I have an old man cat who wouldn't mind just sitting on the couch all day, so I'm not concerned about him :)

I will likely be traveling for long periods at a time and wanted to know what you do, if anything, about "exercising" your cat. I was thinking perhaps of getting a screen room with a floor and letting them out into that to run around, but I'm concerned they will run right up the screen or be too scared to do much of anything.

Any help or suggestions you can offer would be appreciated.

Thanks,

Beth

Does anyone have more info on the T@B Rally in Newport Beach, Ore in July. I would like to attend if possible, I will be traveling from Spokane, Wa and am a little concerned about the winds along the Columbia River. Any Comments, Thanks

My husband and I are thinking of getting a T@b, but we have 2 daughters, and will not be able to all sleep inside at the same time. We were thinking of getting the screen room that attaches so we can sleep in it like a tent. Does anyone have one that they use in this manner? Does it stay fairly warm at night? Does it leak?

Thanks,

Dianne

We love our Orange Crush-bought it in Nov 2004 and drove 15000 Km throughout the winter. We have camped in snow and -28C temps and 30C highs. It has been a super hot summer, so we sleep in it at night-no need for ac-the fan does a super job.

After 3 months of T@Bbing we made some changes-our unit is the original design, so we cut out the closet and added a counter instead,bought a smaller make-down table and made slats for the bed, added a television oulet to the toungue and feed the wire thru the gas line hole to the interior (no more wires thru the window). We also made a tent for it, but would buy the one designed for it, even though it is pricey. We are now waiting for our screen door.

We are recently retired and love the simplicity of our T@B. Hope to see you all on the road....Mary-Ann

hi T@B owners,

i am in B.C. Canada (kamloops) and am interested in a T@B. does anyone know of any dealers nearby?

Anyone using a 2004 Honda CRV for a T@B?

Great comments from everyone - i came across T@B on a roadtrip, and now saving my pennies (all $13,000 worth of them.....)

I am anxiously awaiting the arrival of my new T@B. I wonder why people think T@B is overpriced. Compared to what? It's NOT overpriced when compared to my current small travel trailer that cost $11K in 1998, has a plastic and laminate on particle board interior, and has cost several hundred dollars per year in maintenance and repair. And then there's the price of gas, at 9 MPG. I think the T@B is a bargain!

My husband and I bought a T@B a couple months ago near Seattle at PoulboRV. It has the heat pump, inside kitchen, etc. WE LOVE OUR T@B! We have taken 2 camping trips so far with no problems.

We are pulling it with a small Daewoo Lanos that only has a 1.6 liter engine. Doesn't slow us down any, and we get 17 mpg on a trip. We set a microwave on top of the heat pump, and attached it with small chains in the back that you can't see, but it keeps it from sliding off the cabinet. We took the door off the closet because we couldn't open it with the MW in the way. Then, we installed a pull-up blind in the open doorway. Works perfect and looks nice. Then, we bought some portable shelving so the closet inside stays neat. Went to the dollar store and bought some of the wall hooks that work with a lever instead of having to attach with nails. We hang our clothes at night, hang the garbage bag, etc.

We downgraded from a 28' Bounder Motorhome, and we absolutely do not regret that decision. Add up the gas prices, the insurance cost, and the maintenance costs on the Bounder, and the T@B pays for itself. We

are thrilled with our little RV, and everywhere we go, people want to look in it. We have even had people follow us so they could see inside. Means I have to keep it clean.

It was pricey, but worth every penny!!!

I read with interest the person who sent out a Request for Proposals to different dealors in different states. Anybody have any advice on how to go about doing that? Perhaps a website? Is it a specific form or just something you type up and faxed to the different dealors? With the end of the year coming up, I'd like to be ready to look for 2005 T@Bs!

Thanks!

We bought the gray TAB with lottsa options. Air conditioning and heatpump, the 3-way fridge, the Shurflow water pump, the alloy wheels and "sport" tires, the awning, etc. etc. and we're selling it for $9,500.

It's a great little trailer, but because of business pressures (which have gotten worse,) we were only able to take 3 trips of about 200 miles each. (We paid $13,000.00.) We've gotten 19 mpg pulling it with our Sienna mini van, and it's in perfect condition.

We are in Garrison, NY, across from West Point. We have to sell it.

Mike Gilligan

Michael Gilligan,

Is ur T@B still up for sale.

Am very interested. I live on east coast so can come up and get it.

Thanks,

Roger Garlow

we bought our 2004 Tab at our state fair in alaska and love it, love it! we have two dogs and they do great wih us. big queen bed, all the extras a person needs are there in the Tab. we bought a porta pot at walmart for $25. and its just like the one you can buy with it, so save yourself the forty dollars. we go down narrow dirt roads in alaska, back by the glaciers, the ocean, etc. it always been so comfey, the heater is great.its qute the conversation piece here as not many people have them yet. anyone who tours our Tab loves it. never a critical opinion have we encountered. we recommend it totally, if you love to camp and want it simple, its the way to go. have fun and enjoy what life has to offer!

Can anyone tell me if you can sleep horizontally cross the trailer using only the back portion of the bed when folded down.

What is the width of the interior?

I am only asking this as there is no dealersd within hours from our place.

thanks in advance.

Scott

Just saw two this weekend out in Hood River, Oregon. One in clamshell, the other standard layout with kitchen facilities indoors. Prefer the clamshell so you don't end up sleeping surrounded by the smell of dinner. I'm wondering if anyone has thought up a way to add a second bed to the one already available. It doesn't need to be big, but to make the T@b work my wife and I need a place for our growing five-year old daugther to sleep.

I've been looking at the T@B for over a year now, and was shocked at the sticker price of over $12,000 (in Sacramento CA). I just looked at the T@B website and learned that they now have a new fiberglass model that is $2,000 less than the Aluminum model. Also, the tent is listed for $900. I am still confused at how the price can be $5,900 in one state and $13,000 in another. Can we not order these trailers straight from the factory? The website does suggest printing out the cost sheet and taking to your local dealer.

We have an unused T@B "screen room" for sale. $600+shipping. It came with the trailer and we don't need it.

Yes, yes!!! We love the T@b but have a 5 yr old growing boy...let us know how to fit him in and we will join the club.

thanks!

REPLY to Scott and Trisha, Sept. 2, 2005

The TAB trailer is about 5' 6" horizontal and 4' wide in the rear(with back laid down). If you lay down the table and cover it, you are then looking at an approx. queen size bed. Don't know why two would want to sleep horizontally, when one might have to get up in the middle of the night and crawl over the other.

Lee Mattson

I'm also looking for a good deal on a used or new T@B. Has anyone found a good place discounting end of season units? I'm in Ontario, Canada but would consider shipping from states close to Ontario. Is the Gilligan's T@B still for sale?

I am looking to purchase an awning for my T16 Tab, is there anyone that would have one to sell at a reasonable price.

Thanks

Dan

Hi Jennifer;

Try Alma Homes And Campers in New Glasgow Nova Scotia they had two new 2004 models at very good pricing below their cost.

Dan

We have a 2004 Orange Crush model fully loaded used only once. Given as a gift. Looking to sell $12,000 obo. Located in Northeast Florida. rzo5@bellsouth.net

I've been price stalking the cost of the t@b at my local dealership. Anyone know of any closeout dealerships around Dallas Texas. I've been trying to decide between floorplans and decided to choose the clamshell model with outside sink and stove which my local dealer does not carry. I also like the fact that the clamshell has that little bench seating, enough for a small child. My wife is a priss and doesn't enjoy roughing it so the purchase of this T@B will get her off my back and let me continue to enjoy the outdoors with her whining. Either I'll get the T@B or a divorce from someone who told me they loved the outdoors.LOL.

We have a 2004 T@B, and are looking for a bike rack to carry 2 or 4 bikes. Can anyone help?

My Subaru dealer says the hitch already on my 2005 Forrester (I had it installed to accommodate a bike rack) is the only hitch that a Subaru dealer provides. Subaru owners with a T@B, are you using a dealer installed hitch to pull your T@B?

Brad & Bonnie, how about a car roof mount bike rack?

To Marilyn,

We had the hitch on our Legacy installed by our T@B dealer. George

Hello! We just took the plunge and bought a clamshell yesterday! I'm so happy to see all of you out there. We recently moved to UT from MT and I'm looking for a fun place to take this thing out on its first run before winter. Any suggestions? Thanks~Lora

Brad and Bonnie, My husband got a bike rack at REI and mounted it between the hitch and the propane hub on the T@B. It slides in and out as we need it so we can still use it with the truck hitch other times. hope this helps. Lori

To Lora: I was looking @ a clamshell yesterday at a dealership. It was for sale, but the seal over the back opening for the stove area was in for repairs. Any knowledge of these seals being a problem? Also, do you love cooking out of the sleep/dining area inside? I'm thinking of a clamshell, but do cold and/or rainy weather put a damper on the food prep? Safety wise, I prefer having the stove isolated from the bedding area. I loved all the windows. Would the seat under the front window sleep a little grandchild okay? I hope you get to use your T@B ASAP. I'm green with envy! Good luck. Evelyn

Hi,

We have just bought the L-shaped T@B and we are preparing to go road touring to Mexico. We are in Canada where they are more expensive but whatever, we love it anyway! Scott is adding shelving underneath the kitchen cabinets and in the rear closets. We are using one closet to hang clothes. We are excited to get started. We will be leaving our 2600 sq. ft. house to live in the T@b for 6 months. Yikes! Are we crazy? Less is definitely more in this case. More gas mileage and more confidence on the highway.

Sun here we come. Trish

Re Hi

I also placed three "Gracious Living" single drawer boxes (plastic things) in the closets, holding them in place with some wooden slats and removed the false floor in the fourth for the clothes hanger area to extend to the bottom.

We also cut out a large area under the center of the lower storage area under the rear cabinets, then built and installed a door 24" X 11" that opens down to the floor making all that storage below the cabinets very accessible.

Next I'm going to install a 1000 watt inverter with a 300 watt solar panel using the existing plug bnuy the door and adding a bus bar in the left hand corner of the back closet, using it for computer and other charging items. I'll also make and install a magazine rack and a book shelf above the windows tomorrow.

Next we will install a stainless steel sheet across the area behind the sink. why this wasn't done originally is beyond me.

Also I'll be building a cup, glass, sharp knife slots and plate holder unit in the left corner of the counter top.

That should be it.

Better get to bed. Lots of work yet.

Scott and Trisha

Hi Evelyn,

We're heading out this weekend, finally! I'll let you know how it goes. I am a little nervous that our fun clamshell won't be so charming if I'm trying to make coffee during when it's 40 degrees outside. On the other hand, this is a big step up from the backpacking style camping we've always done:-)

I haven't heard about seals on the clamshell being an issue, but I'll post if I hear anything.

Lora

Evelyn - Forgot your other question!

Front seat - we have a 90 pound spinone italiano who's made himself comfy there (http://homepage.mac.com/lorak/trailers/PhotoAlbum26.html). Wouldn't work very well for an older child, but I think up to about kindergarten age should be no problem. If you get a T16, you can also get the tent room, and make a place for the kids and pets to sleep out there.

It's a bummer that there's no awning/tent for the clamshell. That would make it a lot easier.

I believe many of you folks relly are off base in rating the T@b as overpriced. You are beyond any shadow of doubt purchasing the most well built travel trailer on the market.There are more positive quality standard features on the T@B than there is room here to discuss. They are in my opinion ,in the same quality range for what they are as the Mercedes is in the auto market.Did I mention they're bear resistant?

FIRST TRIP IN 06 CLAMSHELL WAS A BLAST!

We had a great time, and so easy to set up. We were having cocktails listening to music behind the clamshell before our companions had un-hitched their 23' Dutchman. It poored in the middle of the night, and we stayed warm and dry. It was a little cool in the morning, getting the coffee going and such outside. But, the pass-through cabinet works as a great way to be served breakfast in bed!

Just got out t@b from Ohio shipped it to Ca . Were are you keeping the spare tire ?

any ideas ?

I bought a vertical tire holder for about $25 at a dept store which mounts on the front hitch frame then added a tire cover. Looks fine however adds a little weight to the tongue.

We just finished our second season with our T@B, original with yellow trim. I towed it throughout the Adirondacks with a 4 cyl Nissan truck with no problem. It's perfect for the two of us and with our dome or "potty tent" set up outside, we have all we need. It's a solid, well insulated, light weight trailer with radial independent suspended wheels, (no sway bar required) three way fridg, efficient thermostat controlled furnace, queen size bed, electric pump water system and sink with a two burner stove, surge brakes, (no break hookup required) variable speed/reversable ceiling fan, covered tank and battery, awning, blackout shades, need I go on? This rig is well worth the cost for what you get. Mine was about $9000 which is about $3000 more than a similar tent trailer with none of the German engineered quality. I hope to use this trailer for a long time. The only thing I added was a yellow bug light outside, a tire rack (more storage inside), and a 12v plug inside for accessories.

HI

I've only seen the TaB on the web. I'd love to see one in person. Any suggestions of where to see in So. Cal ? Once I see it - if I still love it I think I'd travel to pick one up at a good price.

For Audrey,

Try California RV Sales in Fontana (909.434.2522).

I'm looking forward to the delivery my T@B. I'd enjoy hearing from T@B owners about their experiences

after their first trip. In other words, does the infatuation hold up over time?

To Scott,

We are still infatuated after 3 weekends and 1 week long trip. We store our T@B in the garage and it definately calls out to us each time we enter the garage. We would like to take an extended trip (a few months) in our T@B in a few years, when our situation allows (empty nest). We both love the simplicity of the T@B. It's amazing how easily you can live with so little.

Becky,

Thanks for your post! I'm in week three of what is supposed to be a four to six week wait while

my tab is built and shipped. I'm chomping at the bit, scrutinizing maps every night and imagining

all the places I'll go. I am more than ready.

By the way, others have noted the yahoo site for tab enthusiasts and it's worth the effort to register

at yahoo and find it.

My best,

Scott

Love the tab? Show us where you are!

http://www.frappr.com/tinytabtrailers

Glenn

STL, Mo

Also you can visit a very large T@B userbase at http://tinyurl.com/agoo7

Thanks,

Glenn

Hi all,

We've spent the evening reading all of these postings. About 4 hours ago we bought a T@B on ebay, a 2004 for $9500. It was a lot more than we intended to spend on a travel trailer, but once we saw it, nothing came close. After reading all of the positive comments, we were hooked and from what we've read, our price was not out of the ballpark. We will be driving from our home (Colorado) to northern California to pick it up sometime in January, then use it on the way home. We will be driving my 2000 Jeep Wrangler to get it (it's yellow and will match our new yellow trimmed T@B). We both drive Jeep Wranglers. I (the wife) am trying to get as much information as possible so we know what to take with us. This weblog has been very helpful in that regard and I joined the yahoo group also. If you have any special thoughts for us as we get ready to take possession of it, please feel free to share.

We have an '05 T@B. First trip was to Talladega (from Cincinnati, OH)for the October Nextel Cup race. Not sure what got more attention - our new Hummer H3 or the T@B it was pulling! Show called Tailgating Across America interviewed/filmed hubby cooking breakfast the morning of the race! They sure are an eyecatcher!!!!!!

Got our 06 Tab 11-30-05. I love it. this weekend I installed aluminum diamond plate rock guard on the front. It came out sweet.The wife and I will be camping @ Woodsons Bridge on the Sacramento River, Ca. New Years Eve. week end.We will have a nice warm place to sleep after the noise, and party. HappyNewYearEveryOne!!!

From the t@b website it looks like there may be a new layout for the tabs. Does anyone know for sure, our local dealer doesn't seem to have any salespeople who know anything about tabs, they are mostly interested in big motorhomes. Thanks!

How do T@Bs compare to Aliners? Anyone had experience? I have heard the Aliner tows more easely ,more spacious? thanks Eddie

My husband Art and I just purchased a new T@B down in Ohio. I am going to retire on March17, 2006 and we plan on doing a lot of traveling. Our first trip will be to the south someplace,then that will lead us to "ALASKA". I would like to find a awning sooner or latter,we have purchased a few differant types of heaters since the "COOLCAT" heat pump wont work at temps under 40 degrees. Cant wait to get our baby out of the barn and head out !!!!!!!!

Nancy/Art DeVriendt

Wondering if there are any T@B owners here in Wyoming. Would like to see this unit in person. Was considering a Casita 13 but actually like the looks and weight of the T@B better. Would be a lot easier to tow behind the Jeep Liberty.

Thanks in advance ...

Searching for comments on the screen door for the T@B. Current price at a nearby dealer is $138.

Can anyone tell me how many t@b's have been sold worldwide to date?

We are considering purchasing a 2006 T@B and wanted T@B owners to give us your opinion on what you like and don't like about this RV. We like the L shaped unit because it appears to give you more storage but I'm wondering if the bed is large enough? Is the patio awning or add a room tent worth the price? Any advise you are willing to give is will be greatly appreciated.

Sharon,

We have the standard floor plan and have plenty of storage for two. Our T@B came with the awning and we use it every time. It comes in handy as a shade and also gives some privacy. Also, it's nice if it's raining and at night we put our chairs and wood under it to keep dry (we live in Oregon). My husband is tall and we needed the bigger bed. I know you won't be sorry if you purchase a T@B. We've had a lot of fun in ours traveling and meeting people along the way who are curious and want a tour. We hope to take an extended trip in a few years when our last bird leaves the nest.

We are interested in buying a T@B. While the tab-rv website highlights the AluFiber skin, there is no mention that they also make fiberglass T@Bs and aluminum ones. Anybody has advice/tips regarding the pros and cons of each one.

Thanks