Forum Discussion

Gloria_E's avatar
Gloria_E
Explorer
May 22, 2017

Should we buy used 5th wheel

True newbie to 5th wheels. Looking to retire. Should we buy used and if so - how old ? What to look or ask for? Desperately looking for some guidance in purchase of our retirement home :) Thank you
  • I you have the experience to identify and evaluate a 5th wheel. Then buying used is OK. But if you lack the knowledge and don't know what to look for. Or even what you are looking at buy new.
    THere are bargains to be found on the used market, there are also plenty of leaking money pits. If you If you have the knowledge you'll be fine.
    If you lack the knowledge by new from a reputable dealer.
  • I have bought new cars and trucks but not new when it comes to my fifth wheels. I find that the depreciation on rv's is more than I want to accept and by buying on that has been well taken care of and only a couple of years old, have had all of the warranty issues taken care of. I understand those who want a new one that is just theirs and no one else has used but that depreciation would eat at me on an item that expensive. Good luck in your search and hope you have a great time.
  • Certainally you can buy used. Age, condition, and where you plan to live travel are all important considerations in any buying decision.
  • Well Gloria there are a few things you need to learn. What is your tow vehicle? Is it big enough to tow at the trailers GVWR (not dry weight)? What is the TV cargo carrying capacity? Can it handle the pin weight? Make sure you have a big enough truck to handle your trailer. Since you don't have any experience with 5th Wheels. Then you need to do some studying on line, talk with others, increase your knowledge. Once you have gained knowledge, what is your budget? Are you going to keep your present house, or sell it and use proceeds to buy RV? Have you ever done anything like this? If not you may want to rent for a week or two to see if you like it.
    I have owned 5 RV's and learn something new all the time. Learned a couple of hard lessons in the beginning and was lucky it had some knowledge of repairs and if not where to turn to when needed. Good luck and continue to troll the forums for help.