Advice on buying USED motorhome

Oh, if only you had been on RVnet back in ~2000. While historically there had been a lot of issues, Fleetwood bashing was pretty common back then. Fleetwood got much better over the years as all manufacturers did. But Fleetwood did not have a good reputation back then.

We have had good luck with 3 older Winnebago Motorhomes. They have a very good roof. I've never had one leak but I try to keep the caulking in good shape.

doxiemom11 wrote:
We purchased a 10 year old Monaco gas coach that is now almost 15 years old. The fit and finish and materials used are of higher quality than many and there are also many options, such as 10 gal water heater rather than 6 gallon. Large refrigerator, a ton of storage, closets and drawers etc, dual pane windows, insulation is better etc. Even though Monaco isn't in business as Monaco, it doesn't matter. The chassis is a Ford chassis and the appliances made by the same companies as everyone elses. When buying older, there is no warranty from the mfg, so we would never be dealing with the mfg anyway. As the advice usually goes, buy the highest quality used that you can afford. Find a floorplan you like and have a pre-purchase inspection. Oh, another thing we like - high quality awnings and aluminum exterior including the roof.

There you go, Thanks alot, this is the information that helps alot. KEEP it coming... :)

Very good advice from ALL, so I'm guess that the NAME brand of a motorhome really does not matter?? It's how well the rig was and is maintained and operates, the appearance of the interior/exterior.
I guess I was looking for more information on "yeah, I own a 1999 Fleetwood and and it has been the best rig ever", or "OMG,, I had a 1999 Fleetwood and that model is now known to be full of problems". These are all examples....
But again, thanks for the info. :)

We purchased a 10 year old Monaco gas coach that is now almost 15 years old. The fit and finish and materials used are of higher quality than many and there are also many options, such as 10 gal water heater rather than 6 gallon. Large refrigerator, a ton of storage, closets and drawers etc, dual pane windows, insulation is better etc. Even though Monaco isn't in business as Monaco, it doesn't matter. The chassis is a Ford chassis and the appliances made by the same companies as everyone elses. When buying older, there is no warranty from the mfg, so we would never be dealing with the mfg anyway. As the advice usually goes, buy the highest quality used that you can afford. Find a floorplan you like and have a pre-purchase inspection. Oh, another thing we like - high quality awnings and aluminum exterior including the roof.

I have had very good fortune with Fleetwood (1990's Caribou camper and 2005 Tioga Class C and now 2001 American Coach Tradition Class A). I agree with above as well with fit/finish. To me, they just did things nicer than just enough to get by and parts for repair and replacement seem fairly plentiful.

Here is how I buy my used rigs.
I first find a good Independent garage that works on lots of trucks such as delivery trucks. I talk to the Service manager and let him know I am looking to buy a used Motor home. I ask if he would be willing to inspect the engine, powertrain, brakes etc for me BEFORE I BUY THE RIG. I ask him how much he would charge more or less for such an inspection and make sure he understands I AM PAYING FOR THE SERVICE and I am the customer . The service manager should be asking YOU questions at this point (if he is not find another place). If the service manager seems he just wants to get you out of his hair go somewhere else. If you choose wisely you will have found a good place to do business.

I go to see the rig and look at the interior. I try to make sure all appliances are working specially the fridge. I look outside for signs of abuse and check lights etc Test drive vehicle work wipers, check braking etc. Run the genny. I figure in my head what I a willing to pay and Make the offer contingent on the rig passing inspection at the repair place chosen. Make the seller aware that you will be paying for the inspection. Stress that if something minor is found it can be negotiated between you. Suggest you be allowed to drive rig with the owner to the shop. If you feel anything funny let your mechanic know.

Some things that should be checked by shop.
Compression test on engine
radiator pressure test
fluid leaks
Transmission and drive shaft

Steering components

Brakes F&R rotors, drum, brake lines emergency brakes.
AGE OF TIRES tires over 5 years old are NO GOOD for your purposes no matter how much tread is left

Your list will be longer

The mechanic will run you $200 - $300 but can save you buying a clunker. If the mechanic does well by you then you have found your repair place when needed

Hi,

Motor homes are filled with plastic parts in the "house". Plastic become depalmerized over time and those parts become brittle. Expected life span may be in the region of ten years. For that reason, I'd look for an RV that is only five years old.

The #1 item to look for is any signs of water leaks or damage. If you see the barest hint--run away.

Good advice, but any info on rigs you like or dislike due to your experiences with the rig?? Thanks

I look for "one owner" types and not dealerships. Mileage indicates use to me, so if I am not going to tack on a huge amount, higher mileage and less expensive is fine. I love it when they have the paperwork and I ask to take it with me. When I sell, it will help me too. I ask about repairs and leaks and then I see how they did them...shop or duck tape or does it look really good. If the engine bay is too clean or only clean in certain areas, concern. I don't want to see a clean engine unless it is still like that from new. I want to see the seepage or leaks if there are any. On this note, I ask where it is usually parked so I can see if leaking in any one spot. For me the two most important things are engine and roof. Does the roof leak and if so where and what has been done? I will climb up to inspect if it looks like I could be making an offer. The person selling has something to do with it too. Good people have nothing to hide and come across that way typically. Lastly, I look at my surroundings. Yard meticulous or overgrown. Condition of other vehicles/house are considered.

One piece of advice from my experience...don't be in a hurry. I try to look at only newer listings that way I am not wasting my time or the sellers. Each time I have sold mine it has sold in first few days and I think each of the things I listed above are why I haven't had trouble buying or selling. Best of luck!