We recently had a 2023 Thor Rize 18M in the shop and it’s a great example of what we commonly see with Class B motorhomes after they’ve been used for a year or two.

While these vans are designed to be ready-to-go from the dealership, real-world use often reveals a few key areas that need improvement.

Common Issues We See in Thor Rize Vans

After working on multiple units like this, a few patterns stand out:

1. Wear and Tear

Once these vans are used regularly, road trips, camping, off-grid stays, certain materials and components begin to show wear faster than expected.

2. Electrical System Limitations

Factory electrical systems in many Class B vans tend to be underbuilt.

They may work for light use, but once you start relying on your van more heavily, issues like limited power capacity and inefficient charging become noticeable.

3. Bed System Design

One of the most common complaints we hear is about the bed setup.

In many cases, it’s not comfortable, not functional, or simply doesn’t match how the owner actually uses the space.

What We Upgraded in This Build

For this client, the bed system was the top priority.

We rebuilt it to:

Improve comfort
Increase usability
Better match her day-to-day van life

This kind of upgrade can completely change how a van feels to live in.

Smart Electrical Upgrades (Without a Full Overhaul)

When it comes to electrical systems in vans like the Thor Rize, a full replacement isn’t always necessary.

Instead, we focused on targeted upgrades that deliver the most value:

Adding a DC to DC charger for better charging while driving
Increasing solar capacity
Improving overall system performance

These upgrades help the system function more reliably without the cost and complexity of a full rebuild.

Why a Diagnostic Approach Matters

Every van, even the same make and model, is used differently.

That’s why we don’t jump straight into recommending full replacements or major changes.

Instead, we start with a diagnostic approach:

Identify what’s working
Pinpoint what’s not
Recommend upgrades that actually make sense

This saves time, money, and a lot of frustration.

Is Your Van Working the Way You Expected?

If you own a Class B motorhome and something feels off, whether it’s your electrical system, layout, or overall functionality, it’s worth taking a closer look.

You don’t always need a full rebuild.
Sometimes you just need the right upgrades in the right places.

Need some help? Contact us!

Contact Us!

Upfitting a Thor Rize 18M: What We Fixed and Why It Matters