Forum Discussion

7lazy77's avatar
7lazy77
Explorer
Jul 12, 2015

End cap damage....should I consider purchasing?

I am looking at upgrading into a toy hauler. I (like most) try to look for the best deal out there. I came across a 2013 Fuzion 342 that we really like & I can purchase it for $35,000. The problem is that there is some damage to the front end cap (bottom of driver's side above 5th wheel hitch) that I was told happened about a month ago. The guy selling is active duty & said that due to his military commitments, he doesn't have the time to use anymore. I am attaching a close-up picture of the crack.

http://i89.photobucket.com/albums/k216/ggg7lazy77/camper%20front_zpsexalyhht.jpg

The question I have is, would you consider this camper at this price for the relative minor repair?? Should I be worried about the moisture that could of "possibly" entered the crack?? Looking at the angle of the crack, it doesn't appear that it would of taken in much? Any comments/suggestions are greatly appreciated.
Toy Haulers
  • momentum_rv's avatar
    momentum_rv
    Explorer
    Jul 15, 2015
    It looks to me like a truck cab induced injury. Probably only cosmetic. If you can check for deeper damage, then "dress it up" and live with it, you are good to go... especially if it is a good deal otherwise.
  • garry_owen's avatar
    garry_owen
    Explorer
    Jul 14, 2015
    would not consider a pre-damaged toy hauler.

    when i bought mine, i did and was able to fix it............... but it turned out not to be miner damage.

    you just can't tell how much needs repaired from the outside. buy the time you get into the meat of it, its to late to turn back.

    as stated above, repairs can get expensive quickly.

    that and once repaired-never like new again. can effect the resale when you want to move it.
  • CarlT100's avatar
    CarlT100
    Explorer
    Jul 14, 2015
    I went through the same with my previous toyhauler. Those end caps are expensive. Insurance covered mine. In the case of the poster, he should offer $8000 less on the price to cover a new end cap.

    I will not buy a used RV without paying a trusted, certified RV tech to inspect it thoroughly. That is money well invested.
  • tinner12002's avatar
    tinner12002
    Explorer
    Jul 14, 2015
    CarlT100 wrote:
    The real fix is a new end cap. It can be repaired; but it will show. If it has not been sealed for month and there has been rain, I would have a professional inspect it for you.


    I looked at replacing an end cap on my RV and was told I would be looking at $5000 minimum to get it with shipping and purchasing let alone installation.
  • 1L243's avatar
    1L243
    Explorer II
    Jul 13, 2015
    My thoughts are why did he not claim the damage on his insurance and have it repaired and sell it for thousands more?

    A good fiberglass guy can fix that but you have to get in there and see if there is structural damage, or water damage. It looks like the Rig has been in the weather.

    Make sure it does not have a totaled title. You never know the damage could be severe..

    $35k what is that about 15K less than one that's not damaged? You got to check it out to be sure...
  • Big_Katuna's avatar
    Big_Katuna
    Explorer II
    Jul 12, 2015
    You don't know if it's minor or not. Might have cracked welds on the frame. Plus is it worth your time to mess with it and it not turn out right?

    Why bother? Keep looking.
  • CarlT100's avatar
    CarlT100
    Explorer
    Jul 12, 2015
    The real fix is a new end cap. It can be repaired; but it will show. If it has not been sealed for month and there has been rain, I would have a professional inspect it for you.
  • Y-Guy's avatar
    Y-Guy
    Moderator
    Jul 12, 2015
    What the NADA book showing up for it how about what other units are going for (asking) in your area?

    I can be fixed, depend how much you want to spend and how factory you want it to look when its done. I would get it at least sealed to prevent water from getting in. A boat repair shop or some RV shops can work on Fiberglas and they can probably give you some idea of the cost.

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