OP.... I am like you and don't have a lot of money to spend on a fifth wheel. My last TT cost 4300 and was pretty sound... Tires cost me 700, water heater I installed was 350$, propane regulator and hoses were $100, destroyed awning was $250 (deductible that is), and the little costs where everywhere.
My father has a Triple slide fiver, his slides quit working and it turned out to be a hydraulic pump and it cost him a grand to fix it.
So, let's assume that your new fiver is structurally sound. You will need the following
1) tires and brakes...1000-1500 depending on the need
2) slide work (probably NOT a switch) 500-1000
3) 4-5 rolls of butyl putty- $60 ish
4) new carpet/ flooring. 3-500
5) pack of 50 razor blade for sylicone removal $10
6) new AC- $600-1200 (the window unit is there for a reason)
7) Fifth wheel hitch and rails for the truck 500-1000
8) custom made replacement access door not ghettofied - $2-500
9) misc things that WILL come up- $1000-1500 on the conservative side
This are guesstiments based on YOU doing everything.
IMHO. Walk away and save your money some more. Or you can score a nicer newer TT with slide for not much more $$ than your budget.
Plus if DH is not on board you will not have very much support...
In the meantime you could take 3-500 from your budget and have a very nice and very comfortable tent camping set up while you save!
Thanks!
Jeremiah
