Episode Details
Back to EpisodesNews | Diesel Pain Gets Worse, THOR Consolidates & Brinkley RV Goes Bigger
Description
Diesel prices are surging again, and the government’s latest forecast suggests the pain at the pump could continue well into 2027. Plus, THOR Industries is making one of the biggest changes to the way it operates its RV companies in decades, while several manufacturers are making big moves in the high-end fifth-wheel market.
We also take a closer look at the new Brinkley Model R, including its massive independent suspension and the decision to move the air conditioners off the roof. Plus, Ford has recalled more than 223,000 F-150s, Roadmaster has an important Nighthawk tow bar recall, and Wyoming is preparing a new certification requirement for RVs and trailers traveling over Teton Pass.
Let us know what you think about this week’s stories in the comments!
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IMPORTANT LINKS:
⚠️ Roadmaster Nighthawk Tow Bar Recall:
https://www.roadmasterinc.com/content/nw/nighthawk-recall.html?lnk=nighthawk&src=rminc&utm_source=newsletter&utm_medium=email&utm_term=Sun+Sep+06+2026&utm_campaign=+Roadmaster+Recall+The+Best+Places+to+Find+RV+Parts+Replacement+RV+Decals
▶️ Josh the RV Nerd’s full tour of the Brinkley Model R:
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=44dRR9ZzyvI&t=1s
▶️ The RV Hunter’s full walkthrough of Boundless Recreation:
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=0pAwdADKet4&t=3s
THIS WEEK:
⛽ DIESEL PRICES: Diesel has climbed to an average of $6.23 a gallon nationwide, and the latest Energy Information Administration forecast suggests elevated diesel prices could stick around well into 2027.
🏭 THOR RESTRUCTURES AGAIN: THOR Industries is consolidating its North American RV operations under one leadership structure, moving even further away from the decentralized model that has defined the company for decades.
🛠️ BOUNDLESS RECREATION: We have new details about the Boundless Ryde Foundation, including an E-coated chassis, CURT Touring Coil Suspension, hydraulic disc brakes, Michelin tires and a five-year chassis warranty.
🚐 BRINKLEY MODEL R: Brinkley’s new Model R 3710 rides on two massive 10,000-pound MORryde independent suspension units instead of a triple-axle setup. It also eliminates rooftop air conditioners, allowing Brinkley to raise the roof of the RV while keeping the overall height around 13 feet 4 inches. Axiom has already taken a similar approach, and we have some thoughts about the continuing trend toward increasingly enormous fifth wheels.
✨ ALLIANCE AURUM: Alliance RV has finally given a name to its upcoming ground-up luxury fifth-wheel project. The Aurum is scheduled to make its debut in October.
⚠️ F-150 RECALL: Ford is recalling more than 223,000 F-150s because a fuel tank strap may not be properly secured, potentially allowing the tank to leak or even detach.
⚠️ NIGHTHAWK TOW BAR RECALL: Roadmaster has issued a safety recall involving certain Nighthawk tow bars with serial numbers 15000 through 20843. If you own one, check the recall information linked above before towing.
🏔️ TETON PASS: Wyoming is developing a new WY22 Safe Pass program that will require people driving RVs or towing trailers over Teton Pass to complete an annual online self-certification program.
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TIMESTAMPS:
00:00 This Week in RV News
01:20 Diesel Prices Keep Climbing
04:20 THOR Industries Restructures Again
07:31 Boundless Recreation & the Ryde Found