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I don't have experience with either model but I do have a couple of observations based on my experience with two TTs and now a MH along with years of reading Winnieowners and other forums:
1. Aside from floor plans, they're going to be very similar, same power train, same construction, the same or similar appliances, etc. You can change a lot in a MH to suit your needs, but the floor plan isn't one of them.
2. In terms of floor plans, unless you need the bunk beds, I'd prefer the 31ke since you have full bed access with the slide retracted. With the 31BE you have to have the slide extended for full access.
3. From what I've read, full wall slides as in the 31BE can be problematical. They're physically larger and, as a result are more prone to problems. I've also read that, having kitchen appliances on a slide creates more exposure to plumbing and other problems since the systems must be designed to move with the slide.
4. The GVWR of the 31KE is 16,000 lbs, while the GVWR of the 31BE is 18,000 lbs. The GVWR is the maximum weight it can handle, including payload. Unfortunately, the specs in the brochure fail to specify the curb weight so we don't know how much of the additional 2,000 lbs is usable in terms of payload. I'd want to find out what the respective curb weights are for a better comparison of payload capacity. I'd expect that the larger slide is going go eat up some of the difference. Both MHs have a GCWR of 23,000 lbs.
5. The 31BE has a 108" wheelbase vs. the 90" wheelbase of the 31KE, while the 31BE is 8" longer vs. the 18" difference in wheelbase. This may have some effect on handling. I don't know one way or the other but it's something to research.
6. The 31KE has 168 cu ft of storage vs the 31BE at 147 cu ft. Also, the 31KE's slide storage extends with the slide giving it easy access. The 31BE's storage is stationary so the slide extends out over it, making access more difficult along with being prone to bumping heads. I'd especially be wary of access to key areas like water/sewer and electrical compartments.
7. The 31BE has 70 gal of freshwater while the 31KE has 64 gal. The 32BE's holding tank capacity is 43 gal black/59 gal Gray vs the 32KE at 41/57. I don't consider any of these capacity differences as being significant unless you're going to be boondocking most of the time and, even then, the differences are marginal.
8. When you get to the point of comparing actual units, you'll need to consider what options are installed. According to the 2016 brochure which is the first I could find listing the 31BE, there aren't many. There may be options installed by the PO that may be of interest (solar, increase battery capacity, etc.). I wouldn't make a model decision based on installed options. Options would be more important in deciding between two MHs of the same model. You can install solar panels, etc. but you can't change the floor plan.
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Bob C
2002 Itasca Suncruiser 35U
Workhorse Chassis
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2014/15 Itasca Sunstar 31KE Purchase Advice
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