Jacobsen vs. Palm Harbor

[Laura]

We will be replacing our 1977 manufactured home with a new one. Any opinion on Jacobsen vs. Palm Harbor with regard to quality of construction and after-purchase service?

Thanks!

[rmurray]

Both great....

[Laura]

Thanks, Murray. I appreciate your taking the time to respond.

[B. B. Rich]

Laura,
I had owned a Fleetwood before but my wife and I bought a Palm Harbor several years ago to put on our own land. When negotiating the home, over several months time, I was very specific and adamant about what I/we wanted. I did my homework and let them know up front that if things weren't just so that I would be a difficult customer.
To make a long story shorter, I have had several people out to do repairs or fix things that were not done to my sastifaction at the factory. None of these guys managed to fix anything permanently and I have had to follow them up and do the repairs myself. These guys are trained at the factory which means that they don't know anymore about quality and craftsmanship than the factory workers do. They are skilled in the Palm Harbor way only.
Looking at the Jacobsen site, I see something that I don't like already: They use oriented strand board sub-flooring instead of plywood. OSB is a fine sheathing but be leary of it when used in flooring. The first time it gets wet, and it will, it will start to deteriorate.
They also talk about using 26 guage strapping. This sounds impressive to a novice, but in reality the higher the number the thinner the metal. 26 guage is equivalent to that of a tin can lid.
Don't be impressed by any manufacturers hype. Research. Ask questions. Tour their facilities, and be prepared to walk out of a negotiation meeting if you think you are hearing a lot of B.S. If you think it is, it's probably true. Trust your ears. As I've said before, these retailers are like used car salespeople and will tell you what you want to hear. Everything is just rosey until they have you. They will act sweet and friendly. YOU have to be tough and not buy this line. They have seen it all before. You WILL NOT hurt their feelings. These people are not your friends looking out for your best interests. If you remember nothing else of what I have said here, remember this piece of advice.
I hope you find this information helpful, and Good Luck. It is a tough process to go through.

[debbie]

can anyonr help me i bought a 1977 singlrwide from edwards airforce base to put on my land in lancaster ca and now the city wants me to remove it i have a acre of land any suggestions on how or what i can do to keep it

[sneakybooger]

We are in the process of purchasing a Jacobsen home.

It will be 38' x 62' and placed on concrete pilings 13' or so in the air.

We replaced the OSB board with plywood for $300.

We looked at Palm Harbor also. Good home, but Jacobsen seemed more willing to work with the customization of our home.

This home is being put up at the coast, on the water, so it is being built to withstand 130 MPH winds.