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TheWayfarer's avatar
TheWayfarer
Explorer
May 14, 2017

Good Buy? 2000 Damon Ultrasport

Howdy, I'm in the final stages of buying a 2000 Damon with 100,000 miles, a rubber roof and air bag suspension. I wanted to get y'all's take before I pull the trigger. I've never owned an RV so I figured I'd try living in it full time while stationed in Clovis NM. I'm paying a professional inspector to check it out before I sign the check

We agreed on 21k with the following conditions:
- The front end was (poorly) replaced so he agreed to have it repaired by a fiberglass guy then repainted
- Replace 2 front tires
- Install waher/dryer
- Replace cracked passenger windshield

Here's the link:
https://albuquerque.craigslist.org/rvs/6129451699.html

Thanks for giving me some insight

  • Your link is not showing the particular rv for me. The front end doesn't look original. Was it in an accident?
  • Well, hmmm. See what your inspector says after the repairs are completed.
  • A few things to look at, before hiring with the inspector.

    Any soft spots or "give" in the floor or roof. Patched rubber roof, any bubbles? Any water stains on the ceiling? Any signs of moisture/water in basement storage compartments? How does the sealant look on the roof at edges and around openings, smooth? Is there any rust showing on fasteners ? Proper sealants on outside around windows, doors all openings any silicone used? Are the windows dual pane are they fogged? Outside plastic components yellowing, hairline cracks at fasteners? What is the condition of the window and door rubber gaskets especially the windshield on the driver's side? Is it plumbed for the washer/dryer? What is the age of the rear tires? Has the refrigerator had all recalls performed?
  • Did you check the age of the tires?
    You may need new tires. RV tires usually age out before they wear out.
    Don't just go by the amount of tread on the tire.
  • 21K seems pretty high for 100K miles and what looks like previously wrecked front end damage.

    Look at the PPL website out of Houston for some comparisons. Several to choose from with about 20K miles in the 20K price range.

    Just my opinion.

    After looking at the picture again, realized this was a diesel. My opinion doesn't count....:)
  • Do you have good extra funds tucked away in the bank, the reason I ask is a diesel motor is NOT cheap to repair unless your a diesel mechanic, just ask a few diesel owners on here and see what some have had in repairs, there is a guy on RV.net now that bought a used diesel unit and is now over $10,000 in motor repairs and only used the motorhome once..

    If your funds are tight than a good used gas might be better..

    I am not saying a diesel is a bad motor it just cost a lot sometimes when it breaks down..