How to properly evaluate a used DRV fifth wheel

There is a national organization of certified RV inspectors, https://nrvia.org/. Use their locator service and see if there's one near you. I was planning on using them if I found a used RV that she liked. Talked to about 3 different inspectors and all seemed knowledgeable.

Lyle

Since you are not experienced and have to ask I would have a professional check it out

mobile tech will be well worth the money and piece of mind.

btw love the truck.. no weight worries there.

I'll vote with the majority here and advise having a mobile tech check everything out - including suspension, tires, chassis, etc. People who own DRVs usually take exceedingly good care of them, but there's an outside chance that someone hit a curb or a "China" pothole (look for unusual tire wear patterns indicative of alignment issues). Check the DOT manufacture dates on the tires and look for weather checking or cracks. RV tires typically age out before they wear out and should be replaced every 5 - 7 years. Many DRVs come with the MOR/ryde independent suspension; if that is the case, check the rubber shear springs for cracks or separation. The mobile tech can check all appliances, ACs, etc., and make sure they are in safe working order. The cost of a service call for inspection is just good insurance. You'll likely end up with a terrific RV that will last you many years - and I'll have RV envy.

Rob

I would buy a 3 year old DRV without worrying about having it checked out. If you want to be safe just assume it needs $2000 worth of repair.

Lexx wrote:
My wife has found a fiver she likes. It's a DRV with the rear entertainment. It's only 3 years old and seems like in good shape.

Not having purchased a trailer before, how do I go about having it checked out? I've read a number of articles on the web about how to check em out. But I'd also like a "professional" to help me with this.

Do I have it brought to a local repair shop? Call a mobile service? Are there people who specialize in evaluating used trailers?

The trailer is located in central California FWIW.

What model, year, private party or dealer?

At 3 years old I would assume all the bugs have been dealt with.

Nice you have enough truck to pull it safely!!!

I'm sure others with more experience will chime in, but personally, I would have a mobile tech come out and look at it. They see all sorts of mechanical and structural issues with trailers and are quite knowledgeable. DRV is a great 5er.