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dvdlprt's avatar
dvdlprt
Explorer
Mar 21, 2014

HELP - Need advice

We recently sold are very tired travel trailer and would like to purchase a used class c motorhome. We found a 2002 Four Winds Chateau with 62,000 miles for a decent price. My question is (not knowing anything about motorhomes), what aspects of the motorhome (besides engine wear) do I need to scrutinize? What should I be aware of when looking over the motorhome? Thank you in advance for any advice you pass along!
  • Pay a mobile RV service (that you trust) to go over the MH - just like a home owners inspection. They will give you a list of the problem areas, and with that list you can decide how you want to negotiate the price - or walk away.
  • DiskDoctr: Sincere thanks for that extensive checklist. I did a quick check and there doesn't seem to be any leaks from roof and dealer stated he would reseal if we purchase. Treads on tires looked go but I will definitely take your points, create a checklist and return to give a more thorough check. Again, thanks very much - this is the type of help I desperately needed.

    dvdlprt
  • leaks and tires a huge thing to check, if you see any sign of a leak like a stained area RUN>>>>>
  • Pay special attention to the cab over section. Look for any buckling where it meets the main box, they tend to sag.

    Start the generator and run the a/c

    Look at the back of the fridge while running and check for any yellow residue.

    Close the doors while inside and SMELL it. You can tell a lot about a camper by the smell. Pets, smokers, musty, dirty, waste tanks, oil, burnt, etc are all things "The Nose knows" ;)

    Take it for a drive on the highway at 55mph. Check for any pulling, wobbling, or noises. Take it very slow over a few bumps and listen for any hard thumps.

    Drive up a steep grade and see how it pulls. If it seems like it is really heavy, that's one thing, but if you basically have to floor it and it still crawls, it could be a sign of a worn transmission.

    Check the date code and condition of the tires. They can be quite pricey.

    Look at the batteries. Look for corrosion, swelling, date of installation. See if the wiring to the house battery looks corroded or any signs of melted or damaged insulation.

    Check oil level and if there is any burnt smell to it. Check coolant level. Do same for transmission.

    Take a look at the underside for excessive rust, especially brake, gas, transmission cooler, etc hard lines. At 12 yes old, these could be a major pending problem or none at all.

    Put the awning out and open all the storage compartments. Look for signs of rust or bad smells.

    You'd be surprised how many awnings have rubbed trees when backing in or pulling out. Long body and top tilts, both the driver can't see and boogers them up.

    Look at the trim of the windows to see if the sealant looks OK or is showing signs of cracking, moldy looking, etc.

    Hope thismhelps. :)
  • Thank you for the responses so far. I appreciate the feedback!
  • Check the under carriage and frame very thoroughly. Many people store their RV's on the open ground and the moisture can cause a lot of damage.

    Take it to a shop and have an independent service person check it all over.

    Max
  • x2 Buck. While up on top feel all over for soft spots. Look for any bulges and pay attention to cracking sounds as you walk around.
    Crawl underneath and look for any major physical damage. I have looked at used cars before that were packed with sod and dirt from being baja ing or running off the road.
  • ROOF LEAKS!!! All the systems in the coach such as furnace, water heater, etc. can be repaired easily but water damage is the #1 killer of a MH. Get on the roof and see if periodic maintenance has been done such as new Dicor around seams and protrusions. Also, look closely inside for any evidence of water damage.