Looking for a Jayco Pinnacle fifth wheel camper? Of course you are, they are quite literally the pinnacle of the fifth wheels and will ensure every trip is a memorable one.
Jayco is a well-known motorhome and RV manufacturer, and the Pinnacle is one of its most luxurious full-time living fifth wheel series.
Its residential-style features, intuitive layouts, and spacious design make it a top contender for those looking for a new home away from home.
In this article, we’ll do Jayco Pinnacle reviews, covering a few of the most popular models of the past few years. We’ll also take a brief look at their features, pros, cons, and specifications.
Photo credit: jayco.com
Characteristics of Our Favorite Jayco Pinnacle Travel Trailers
What makes Jayco Pinnacle stand out from its competitors? We love several characteristics about these fifth wheels, and we give a brief overview of each one below.
Intuitive Residential-Style Layouts
The Pinnacle is a luxury range that’s designed to feel like a home rather than a travel trailer. The interior layout is optimized to feel like the inside of a house, using residential-style materials and appliances.
Luxurious Amenities and Appliances
Since it’s a luxury range, each Pinnacle is a quality-crafted RV with top-of-the-line appliances. These include hardwood, cedar, stainless steel, and porcelain finishes. There’s also a convection microwave, LED fireplace, 21-cubic-foot refrigerator, and a residential 24-inch Insignia™ stove included with almost every model.
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Advanced Technology
From the Stronghold VBL™ aluminum framed and vacuum bond laminated fiberglass walls to the Climate Shield™ and HELIX Cooling System™, Jayco equips their RVs with some of the best technology in the industry. Additionally, JAYCOMMAND™ lets you monitor the RV, appliances, and water levels from your smart device.
Towability
All Jayco fifth wheels manufactured during and after 2018 come with a five-star handling package. It includes Dexter® axles, heavy-duty shackles with wet bolt fasteners, and Goodyear® Beast tires. It also has better shock absorption and a smoother towing experience due to the MORride® rubberized suspension system and pin box.
Review of the Best Jayco Pinnacle Travel Trailers
Below are our Jayco Pinnacle reviews, covering current models and a few older ones. Our brief overviews will give you a quick look at each layout, its key features, and for whom it may be best suited.
Jayco Pinnacle 36FBTS
Pros
Cons
36FBTS Specs and Dimensions
Height: 13’ 5”
Weight: 13,635 lbs.
Sleeping Capacity: 3 - 4
Chassis: Custom built frame and chassis
Exterior Material Used: Gelcoat fiberglass
Towing Capacity: Not applicable
GVWR (Gross Vehicle Weight Rating): 16,500 lbs.
GCWR (Gross Combination Weight Rating): Not applicable
36FBTS Layout
The 36FBTS has a main bedroom with a king-size bed and a large private bathroom that includes space for a washer/dryer combo, a walk-in closet, a wide shower, and his-and-hers sinks. There’s a second lavatory next to the spacious kitchen and dining area.
The rear of the fifth wheel has a living area with an entertainment center, theater seating, and a tri-fold sofa that can add additional sleeping space. There are two large exterior storage compartments and multiple cabinets for interior storage.
Does the 36FBTS Come With Appliances?
As a luxury model, the Pinnacle 36FBTS comes with several standard appliances and a few upgrades. These include two 32” LED TVs, a BL® home entertainment system, a 21-cubic-foot refrigerator, a convection microwave, and a residential 24” Insignia stove. However, there’s also prep for a washer and dryer in the main bathroom and a dishwasher in the kitchen.
If the refrigerator is too large, it can be replaced with a smaller 18-cubic-foot model.
Who Is the 36FBTS Best For?
Despite its size, the Pinnacle 36FBTS can only sleep up to four people. As with others in the series, this model’s layout is designed to look and feel like a house. Resultantly, it’s best suited for couples or small to midsize families looking for a permanent, comfortable mobile home.
Jayco Pinnacle 36REQS
Pros
Cons
36REQS Specs and Dimensions
Height: 13’ 4”
Weight: 12,990 lbs.
Sleeping Capacity: 4
Chassis: Wide-body, 102-inch frame
Exterior Material Used: Gelcoat fiberglass
Towing Capacity: Not applicable
GVWR (Gross Vehicle Weight Rating): 15,950 lbs.
GCWR (Gross Combination Weight Rating): Not applicable
36REQS Layout
The 36REQS has a main bedroom with a floor safe, walk-in closet, TV, and a storage cabinet with washer and dryer prep. The layout only has one large bathroom with a residential-style shower.
The main living space is divided between the kitchen with breakfast nook, dining area, and the living room, which includes a TV with fireplace, theater seating, and a tri-fold hide-a-bed. You can replace the theater seating with recliners, and you can opt to have a reclining sofa rather than the additional hide-a-bed.
Does the 36REQS Come With Appliances?
Although older, the 36REQS is still a luxury RV and includes several standard appliances. These include a 23-cubic-foot residential refrigerator with a water and ice dispenser, a 21-inch oven with a recessed glass cover, and a three-burner cooktop. There are also two LED HDTVs and an integrated DVD player in the bedroom.
While there are also a few optional appliances, their availability will depend on what stock the dealer has available.
Who Is the 36REQS Best For?
The 2016 Pinnacle 36REQS may be quite large, but it sleeps a maximum of four people. Like the other RVs in this range, it’s designed to be a full-time luxury home for a couple or small family. With its residential amenities and features, it can be a comfortable long-term home.
Jayco Pinnacle 36RSQS
Pros
Cons
36RSQS Specs and Dimensions
Height: 13’ 3”
Weight: 13,240 lbs.
Sleeping Capacity: 4
Chassis: Custom Frame
Exterior Material Used: Gelcoat fiberglass
Towing Capacity: Not applicable
GVWR (Gross Vehicle Weight Rating): 16,500 lbs.
GCWR (Gross Combination Weight Rating): Not applicable
36RSQS Layout
The 2017 RSQS is similar to the 2016 36REQS in layout. It also has a main bedroom with a walk-in closet, washer and dryer prep, and a chest with a TV. There’s also only one bathroom, which comes with a 36” shower and linen closet.
The midsection holds the kitchen, pantry, dining area, and desk workspace. The rear contains a theater sofa, entertainment center, electric fireplace, and a tri-fold hide-a-bed that can be replaced with a reclining sofa. You can also replace the theater seats with recliner chairs.
Does the 36RSQS Come With Appliances?
The standard appliances include a 23-cubic-foot residential refrigerator with a water and ice dispenser, a 21-inch oven with a recessed glass cover, and a three-burner cooktop. There’s also a stainless-steel convection microwave oven. The bedroom and living area both come with TVs, and the 23” screen in the bedroom includes an integrated DVD player.
The optional upgrades and replacement appliances may be available, but it’ll depend on what dealers have availability in stock.
Who Is the 36RSQS Best For?
With large water tanks and over 3,200 lbs. in storage capacity, the 2017 36RSQS is ideal for a couple who wants a luxurious, well-equipped fifth wheel for full-time mobile living. The additional sleeping space is excellent for overnight or temporary guests.
Jayco Pinnacle 36SSWS
Pros
Cons
36SSWS Specs and Dimensions
- Height: 13’ 4”
- Weight: 14,105 lbs.
- Sleeping Capacity: 4
- Chassis: Custom built frame and chassis
- Exterior Material Used: Gelcoat fiberglass
- Towing Capacity: Not applicable
- GVWR (Gross Vehicle Weight Rating): 16,750 lbs.
- GCWR (Gross Combination Weight Rating): Not applicable
36SSWS Layout
The rear of the 36SSWS contains the living space, including a tri-fold hide-a-bed, theater seating, and entertainment center. There’s also a well-equipped kitchen with an island, dishwasher prep space, and a dining area.
The kitchen leads down to the only bathroom, which has a large walk-in shower. Across from it are the separate washer and dryer cabinets. The king-size main bed sits in the slide-in-a-slide, across from the wardrobe, dresser, TV, and fireplace. There’s also a front window seat which can be replaced with a walk-in wardrobe.
Does the 36SSWS Come With Appliances?
The standard appliances that come with the 36SSWS include a convection microwave, a residential 24” Insignia stove, and a 21-cubic-foot refrigerator that you can replace with a smaller 18-cubic-foot model. Other appliances include the living area and bedroom LED TVs.
Although the appliances aren’t included, there’s space for a dishwasher, washer, and dryer.
Who Is the 36SSWS Best For?
Unlike several other models, the 36SSWS doesn’t have a replacement option for the tri-fold hide-a-bed. Instead, the layout is designed to house more than two people comfortably and in relative luxury. For these reasons, this design is very well suited for a small family looking for a long-term or permanent mobile home.
Jayco Pinnacle 36RETS
Pros
Cons
36RETS Specs and Dimensions
- Height: 13’
- Weight: 11,820 lbs.
- Sleeping Capacity: 4
- Chassis: Custom built frame and chassis
- Exterior Material Used: Gelcoat fiberglass
- Towing Capacity: Not applicable
- GVWR (Gross Vehicle Weight Rating): 15,950 lbs.
- GCWR (Gross Combination Weight Rating): Not applicable
36RETS Layout
The front of the RV consists primarily of the bathroom and the main bedroom with a king-size bed, walk-in closet, and storage with washer and dryer prep. The steps lead into the kitchen area, which has an L-shaped counter and a flip-up counter extension. There’s also a free-standing dining table and chairs.
The rear living area has two reclining sofas, an entertainment center, and an L-shaped couch, which also doubles as a hide-a-bed for additional sleeping space.
Does the 36RETS Come With Appliances?
The 36RETS comes standard with an oversized 21” oven with a three-burner cooktop and range cover and a 30” residential-grade microwave. There’s also a 12-cubic-foot refrigerator. The bedroom comes with a 32” LED TV with an integrated DVD player.
Although the appliances aren’t included, there’s space for a dishwasher, washer, and dryer. There may also be upgraded or replaced appliances, depending on the dealer’s available stock.
Who Is the 36RETS Best For?
Although the model was released in 2014, the Pinnacle 36RETS is still a popular choice among couples and small to midsize families considering full-time mobile living. The large slide-outs means that the interior is spacious and open, and there’s more than enough living space for a family of four.
Jayco Pinnacle 38REFS
Pros
Cons
38REFS Specs and Dimensions
- Height: 13’ 5”
- Weight: 13,685 lbs.
- Sleeping Capacity: 6
- Chassis: Custom built frame and chassis
- Exterior Material Used: Gelcoat fiberglass
- Towing Capacity: Not applicable
- GVWR (Gross Vehicle Weight Rating): 16,995 lbs.
- GCWR (Gross Combination Weight Rating): Not applicable
38REFS Layout
The 38REFS has one of the most intuitive residential-type layouts, which is why the 2018 model has still been sought after. The upper level holds the main bedroom with a king-size bed, walk-in closet, washer and dryer prep space, and a large and comfortable bathroom.
The mid-section is semi-separate from both the front and rear areas and contains the island kitchen, dining area, and bar top. The rear is a dedicated living space with an entertainment area, theater sofa, and two tri-fold hide-a-beds, bringing the total sleeping capacity to six.
Does the 38REFS Come With Appliances?
The luxurious 38REFS comes with several standard appliances. These include a 21-cubic-foot residential refrigerator with a water and ice dispenser, Furrion® Executive Chef gas cooktop, central vacuum system, and a convection microwave oven. The bedroom also has a 32-inch LED HDTV.
The model includes prepped space for a dishwasher, washer, and dryer. Some appliances may or may not be available, depending on the dealer’s available stock.
Who Is the 38REFS Best For?
The 38REFS is one of the few models that has sleeping space for more than four people. Since the living area with the two tri-fold sofas is semi-separate from the rest of the RV, it can serve as a room for kids or several guests. Overall, the fifth wheel is an excellent fit for a mid-size family or a couple looking for a full-time RV home.
Jayco Pinnacle 36KPTS
Pros
Cons
36KPTS Specs and Dimensions
- Height: 13’ 4”
- Weight: 13,540 lbs.
- Sleeping Capacity: 3 - 4
- Chassis: Custom built frame and chassis
- Exterior Material Used: Gelcoat fiberglass
- Towing Capacity: Not applicable
- GVWR (Gross Vehicle Weight Rating): 16,500 lbs.
- GCWR (Gross Combination Weight Rating): Not applicable
36KPTS Layout
The main bedroom is in the front of the fifth wheel, along with the walk-in closet and storage space for a stacked washer and dryer. There’s also a large bathroom with a walk-in shower just outside the bedroom door.
The lower living space is divided between the island kitchen, dining area, and entertainment area. There’s also a tri-fold hide-a-bed situated in the back.
Does the 36KPTS Come With Appliances?
The Pinnacle 36KPTS comes with a few standard appliances. The kitchen is equipped with a four-burner cooktop, 24” Insignia™ stove, and a convection microwave. Additionally, there’s a 21-cubic-foot refrigerator that you can replace with a smaller 18-cubic-foot model.
There’s a 32” LED TV in the bedroom, an HD TV in the entertainment area, and an optional 32” exterior TV.
While the appliances aren’t included, there are prepped space for a washer, dryer, and dishwasher.
Who Is the 36KPTS Best For?
Like the other models in this series, the Pinnacle 26KPTS is designed for extended or full-time living. The RV has enough sleeping space for a small family, but it’s also an excellent fit for an older or younger couple who may receive overnight guests. With plenty of interior and exterior storage space and a 2,960 lbs. cargo capacity, you’ll be able to pack everything you need.
Pros and Cons of a Jayco Pinnacle
Regardless of the model year or the layout, there are a few common pros and cons that come up in Jayco Pinnacle reviews. We discuss each one briefly below.
Pros
Here are some pros:
Sustainability
EcoAdvantage is Jayco’s sustainability program. The company claims to be committed to preserving the environment that their nature-loving customers tend to enjoy experiencing. Their efforts include recycling, reduced water usage, using sustainable materials, lowering energy consumption, and building lightweight vehicles.
Quality
All Jayco Pinnacles feature a high-quality, handcrafted Amish wood interior. This adds both beauty and durability to the trailer.
Technology
Jayco is known for developing and including advanced technological features with their newer RVs, and the same is true for the Pinnacle series. Each one includes Climate Shield™ technology, a HELIX Cooling System™, the JAYCOMMAND® “Smart RV” system, and JaySMART™ backup assist lighting.
Unfortunately, these features aren’t typically available for older models.
Residential-Style Layouts and Construction
Every Pinnacle layout is intuitively designed and feels like a home’s interior rather than a mobile trailer. Each one has a separate main bedroom and living space, with residential-style bathrooms, kitchens, and appliances.
Photo credit: jayco.com
Cons
Here are some cons:
Warranty and Repair Problems
Many Jayco Pinnacle reviews note that it’s difficult to get repairs approved and done quickly. Most owners advise prospective buyers to choose a trustworthy dealer with a good reputation since they’ll handle most of the issues rather than the manufacturer. It’s also important to remember that the warranty isn’t transferable between owners.
Price
Jayco isn’t known for making the most affordable luxury fifth wheels, and the price for the Pinnacle range might be a problem for some buyers. For example, a similar model and layout from Grand Design are significantly less expensive. However, Jayco tends to offset the cost by offering more upgrades and better built-in features.
Jayco Pinnacle Comparisons
Is the Jayco Pinnacle the right RV for you, or should you consider a different manufacturer? How does the model measure up against other similar fifth wheels?
To answer those questions, we’ve decided to add the following comparisons to our Jayco Pinnacle reviews, highlighting the similarities and differences between it and similar models from other companies.
Photo credit: jayco.com
Jayco Pinnacle vs Grand Design Solitude
Both these models are designed to be luxurious homes away from home and come with several amenities and features for that purpose. The floorplans are similar, although the Solitude has more layout options than the Pinnacle. They also have similar lengths and vehicle weights.
The main differences come down to the interior materials, décor, and add-on features. For example, the Pinnacle comes with Climate Shield™ zero-degree tested weather protection, while the Solitude has Weather-Tek arctic insulation. The latter is also pet friendly, while both have high-quality appliances, including residential-style refrigerators and stoves.
The choice will come down to your personal preferences, so take the time to inspect the two models before deciding.
Jayco Pinnacle vs Palomino Columbus
Again, the Pinnacle and the Columbus are both similar in layout, feature availability, and construction. Interestingly, Palomino’s range has two-floor plans where the main bedroom is closer to the unit’s center rather than in the front or back. The décor options are also lighter than those available for the Pinnacle, making the interior feel more open and spacious and a little starker.
If possible, visit a dealer where you can inspect the different models and their features before making a final decision.
Photo credit: jayco.com
Jayco Pinnacle Problems
All RVs, especially new ones, typically have a few small issues, and many Jayco Pinnacle reviews mention them. That’s why many owners recommend buying a secondhand model, where any problems have already been found and repaired by previous owners.
However, if you do decide to buy a brand new Jayco Pinnacle, there are a few easy-to-fix issues that may occur.
Jayco Pinnacle Heat Problem
If you’re struggling with the furnace or having a heating problem, it’s possible that you need to replace the sail switch. Many of the owners on the Jayco forum claim that replacing it typically solves the problem with the furnace. It’s also possible that the water heater controller board needs to be replaced.
Keep in mind that the heat pump only works down to approximately 40 degrees Fahrenheit since RVs generally don’t have the coil defrost system as most residential-type heaters would.
Weight Problems With Slides
Some Pinnacle models, especially the 2019 series, have large and heavy slide-outs. Unfortunately, these can cause cracks on the side, slide, and floor.
Jayco is aware of the problem, and you should be able to get it repaired if you contact your dealership.
If you’re buying an older Pinnacle from a dealer, determine if the issue has already been addressed before making a purchase.
If you buy a newer model, you likely won’t encounter this problem at all.
How to Winterize Your Jayco Pinnacle
It’s always a good idea to winterize your RV during the cold season or if the vehicle isn’t going to be used for a while. While the process is similar for most fifth wheels, we’ll take you through it step by step.
1. Open the access panel in the bay storage compartment. Pull up the two valves to allow all the water to be run out of the system. Once you’ve completely drained the water, you can push the valves back in to close them.
2. Check the water main and check for the valve layout marked “winterize.” Make sure that your valves are in the correct position as indicated, which bypasses the water heater.
3. Attach the hose from your three- to five-gallon antifreeze jug to the connection valve. If you have a water filter, you should empty it at this point so that the antifreeze can cycle through it before dumping it one more time.
4. Remove the hot water heater plug and pull up the valve. Remember to step back so that the water doesn’t hit you while draining.
5. Turn on your water pump and go into the RV. Open the sink and shower taps and start running the water until solid pink antifreeze comes out. Do the same with the toilet.
6. Bypass the water filter in the fridge with the bypass kit. If your refrigerator has a water valve or an ice maker, press down on the valve until solid pink antifreeze comes pouring out. Do the same with the ice maker until slush comes out, not just pink ice cubes.
7. Pour more antifreeze down all the drains to ensure that everything is covered in antifreeze.
Now your RV should be winterized! Watch the video below for a detailed walkthrough on how to winterize your Jayco Pinnacle properly.
People Also Ask
Although we tried to cover all topics in our Jayco Pinnacle reviews, you may still have some questions. Below, we answer some of the most common queries that potential owners may have about these travel trailers.
What is the Price of a Jayco Pinnacle?
Jayco Pinnacle prices differ depending on the layout and the model year. The 2021 series prices range between $98,333 and $107,342 or more, depending on selected customizations and upgrades. For older units, like the 2014 36RETS, the price could be significantly lower. However, it’ll depend on the dealer and their stock.
What is the Grey Tank Size on the Jayco Pinnacle?
The 2021 Jayco Pinnacle RVs typically have a 50-gallon grey tank, with a secondary 37-gallon tank. Older models may have smaller tanks, so it’s a good idea to check with the dealer before making a purchase.
