Buying advice (again)
I've decided that I am not going to finance an RV, but I still want one that I can pay cash for. I've resigned myself to the fact that it is going to be older and probably need some real work. I am ve...
Forum Discussion
I looked at the rig this morning. I did a visual, ran the engine, but didn't drive it or run any of the mechanical stuff. I wanted to go home and mull over what I'd seen. I am going to go take another look and run all the mechanical systems.
My thoughts and findings thus far:
THE GOOD
water damage/leaks - I can find none. Everything I pushed and poked was solid. No staining or peeling that looks like it is due to anything but age.
The engine fires right up and runs very smooth. Only 51k miles. All belts and hoses look to be in good shape. Master cylinder was replaced by a reputable mechanic about 6 months ago.
Tires were all replaced about 6 months ago.
Interior is old, but in good shape. No weird smells.
THE NOT SO GOOD
LP refrigerator is dead and removed. Owner installed an electric residential mini-fridge. He says he just uses ice while driving and then hook-ups at campgrounds.
Genset does not run. I haven't verified, but owner says it starts and then dies. Fuel issue? Probably an easy fix. My last genset had the same issue and it wasn't too bad to resolve.
The LP tank is old - will it be a problem?
Vents are in bad shape. He installed covers over them, but they will all need to be replaced.
Floor is linoleum tiles that are peeling up. Will need to have new linoleum put down.
There is a small patch on the roof right over the passenger side door. Owner claims it was from bumping his eve. Looks like it to me. I checked that area inside thoroughly and could find no evidence of leaking. You can just see the patch in the first image. The sealant needs to be replaced, but isn't in terrible shape.
__________________________________
Given all of that - anything I should be on the lookout for when I go back to look? Any big red flags?
Thanks again for all the input.
My thoughts and findings thus far:
THE GOOD
water damage/leaks - I can find none. Everything I pushed and poked was solid. No staining or peeling that looks like it is due to anything but age.
The engine fires right up and runs very smooth. Only 51k miles. All belts and hoses look to be in good shape. Master cylinder was replaced by a reputable mechanic about 6 months ago.
Tires were all replaced about 6 months ago.
Interior is old, but in good shape. No weird smells.
THE NOT SO GOOD
LP refrigerator is dead and removed. Owner installed an electric residential mini-fridge. He says he just uses ice while driving and then hook-ups at campgrounds.
Genset does not run. I haven't verified, but owner says it starts and then dies. Fuel issue? Probably an easy fix. My last genset had the same issue and it wasn't too bad to resolve.
The LP tank is old - will it be a problem?
Vents are in bad shape. He installed covers over them, but they will all need to be replaced.
Floor is linoleum tiles that are peeling up. Will need to have new linoleum put down.
There is a small patch on the roof right over the passenger side door. Owner claims it was from bumping his eve. Looks like it to me. I checked that area inside thoroughly and could find no evidence of leaking. You can just see the patch in the first image. The sealant needs to be replaced, but isn't in terrible shape.
__________________________________
Given all of that - anything I should be on the lookout for when I go back to look? Any big red flags?
Thanks again for all the input.
