Any thoughts on a late 70's Jamboree?
I found one I might be interested in that is based on a Chevy chassis. Any thoughts on these? It's a shorty at 21 ft, but the guy says the running gear is sound. I'm more concerned with the qua...
Forum Discussion
I agree with Travelcrafter. An old rig is not a death sentence. Some things to consider:
1. Tires, hoses, and belts and all things rubber - check them all. Have a smoke test done on the fuel lines to find pinhole leaks, etc. Do this first thing as leaking fuel can be very dangerous. Also check all the propane lines. If in doubt, replace.
2. Re-seal windows, seams, etc. Just do it. Don't wait thinking it won't leak and then find out it does. It doesn't take much to do and will go a long way. If you do it now, you won't be outside in a rainstorm trying to tarp the RV.
3. Check all appliances to make sure they work. Don't take anyone's word for it. Fridge, stove, oven, hot water heater, AC, propane heater, etc. Run the water through all the faucets. Turn on lights while plugged in and with just the battery.
4. Prioritize your work. Focus on safety issues first. Then comfort. Then upgrades. Spread it out so it's affordable. You don't have to do everything all at once. I've had mine for about 1-1/2 years and I've got tons more I want to do. I just focus on the priorities, adjust as needed, and keep moving forward.
With American Clippers, I have found that the purchase price breakdown is as follows:
Under $3,000 - Maintenance not performed by prior owner(s) and major work needed to get engine in working order. Appliances needing replacement. Coach needed cosmetic work (re-upholstery, etc.).
$3,000 - $4,999 - Runs OK, may need catch up maintenance work on engine. Appliances should be functional or needing minor repairs only. Coach in good shape.
$5,000 and over - in good running order. Should not need anything other than minor repairs and/or cosmetic work. Appliances work. Engine likely rebuilt.
The lower you pay up front, the more you'll pay getting it in good working order. In the 1-1/2 years I've owned my rig, I've put about $3000 - $4000 into it (including six 16.5 tires for $1200, and new AGM batteries for both engine and coach). I don't regret the money I spent on repairs and I'm still way ahead cost-wise from buying a new or newer RV.
I've also found as I enjoy my rig that all the "upgrades" I thought I would be doing are not necessary or wanted. I like the simplicity of my rig. I don't miss what's not there. If you must have all those upgrades, then buying an older rig may not be right for you. Personally, I couldn't be happier with my choice.
1. Tires, hoses, and belts and all things rubber - check them all. Have a smoke test done on the fuel lines to find pinhole leaks, etc. Do this first thing as leaking fuel can be very dangerous. Also check all the propane lines. If in doubt, replace.
2. Re-seal windows, seams, etc. Just do it. Don't wait thinking it won't leak and then find out it does. It doesn't take much to do and will go a long way. If you do it now, you won't be outside in a rainstorm trying to tarp the RV.
3. Check all appliances to make sure they work. Don't take anyone's word for it. Fridge, stove, oven, hot water heater, AC, propane heater, etc. Run the water through all the faucets. Turn on lights while plugged in and with just the battery.
4. Prioritize your work. Focus on safety issues first. Then comfort. Then upgrades. Spread it out so it's affordable. You don't have to do everything all at once. I've had mine for about 1-1/2 years and I've got tons more I want to do. I just focus on the priorities, adjust as needed, and keep moving forward.
With American Clippers, I have found that the purchase price breakdown is as follows:
Under $3,000 - Maintenance not performed by prior owner(s) and major work needed to get engine in working order. Appliances needing replacement. Coach needed cosmetic work (re-upholstery, etc.).
$3,000 - $4,999 - Runs OK, may need catch up maintenance work on engine. Appliances should be functional or needing minor repairs only. Coach in good shape.
$5,000 and over - in good running order. Should not need anything other than minor repairs and/or cosmetic work. Appliances work. Engine likely rebuilt.
The lower you pay up front, the more you'll pay getting it in good working order. In the 1-1/2 years I've owned my rig, I've put about $3000 - $4000 into it (including six 16.5 tires for $1200, and new AGM batteries for both engine and coach). I don't regret the money I spent on repairs and I'm still way ahead cost-wise from buying a new or newer RV.
I've also found as I enjoy my rig that all the "upgrades" I thought I would be doing are not necessary or wanted. I like the simplicity of my rig. I don't miss what's not there. If you must have all those upgrades, then buying an older rig may not be right for you. Personally, I couldn't be happier with my choice.
