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1989chieftain2n's avatar
1989chieftain2n
Explorer
Dec 15, 2014

learning the hard way

I started camping 24 years ago in a tent I now own a 1992 fleetwood prowler 28'5th wheel. It has many hidden problems all flooring under base cabinets is rotten. I am now assuming the rot is caused from a bad hot water heater and no I have not checked it out yet figure I will take it to someone who would know something before I do something dumb and yes I am a blonde female the other problem is I do not have a set up for auxiliary power there is a place for a battery but it is only for the from jacks. Also there is no book with this trailer so I am just looking everywhere to find everything. Ok so when you are all finished laughing at me a little advice would be greatly appreciated. And I am on a fixed income. Thank you all for ready this.
  • rjf7g's avatar
    rjf7g
    Explorer
    Dec 15, 2014
    Welcome to the forum. A battery should power the entire 12V system - the lights, the fans, the igniters on your propane appliances, etc.

    I just bought a 1999 American Cruiser that I knew had issues. It has been the the auto shop and in now in the RV shop - I don't have time, talent, or tools to fix the water damaged floor, etc. Between what I paid for it and what I am "investing" in it, I am shooting for 50% of NADA.

    So, for you I would ask whether you have a pickup truck that will be safe and dependable to tow your 5th wheel and if you have any idea of the extent of the damage. You may be able to tell if the hot water heater is busted or not ($400 - $500 for a new one) and you can count on a couple of hundred dollars for every few square feet of floor to be pulled up and replaced by someone else.

    You are in a position of either cutting your losses or "investing" some unknown amount of money.

    Best of luck to you! So far, the work on my chassis came in above budget at there was a lot of brake work that needed to be done. I am hoping the RV side comes in under budget!

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