Reliability in purchasing older diesel A
Good Evening to all. Looking for the many who respond to us that are would be newbies. I consider all of you experts because you know far more than I at this point in my RV life from years ago (80's) ...
Forum Discussion
IMHO, the vehicle parts of a diesel pusher RV are typically the same engines, transmissions, brakes, suspension, drive train, wheels, steering gear, etc. that are used in over the road trucks.
Long haul trucks typically operate for over 100,000 miles per year, and don't need to be overhauled for three to five years.
I saw something on RV.net that suggests that typical RV usage is about 5,000 miles per year.
This suggests that a 20 year old diesel pusher should still be good for another decade or two before needing a major overhaul.
Of course their are other elements of an RV that might well be in need of repair or replacement on a twenty year old RV such as batteries, refrigerators, air conditioners, tires, paint, etc. Also, rust might be a concern.
I think a thorough inspection would be in order on a 20 year old rig to determine the work that might be needed now, and how long it might be expected to operate in the future.
Also, maintenance records would be nice to review if available.
BTW, our DP is 17 years old, we've never had any major maintenance required, and according to the shop we use is in very good condition. It has had the brakes relined, and we are planning to replace the shock absorbers this year. It has over 100,000 miles on the clock.
Long haul trucks typically operate for over 100,000 miles per year, and don't need to be overhauled for three to five years.
I saw something on RV.net that suggests that typical RV usage is about 5,000 miles per year.
This suggests that a 20 year old diesel pusher should still be good for another decade or two before needing a major overhaul.
Of course their are other elements of an RV that might well be in need of repair or replacement on a twenty year old RV such as batteries, refrigerators, air conditioners, tires, paint, etc. Also, rust might be a concern.
I think a thorough inspection would be in order on a 20 year old rig to determine the work that might be needed now, and how long it might be expected to operate in the future.
Also, maintenance records would be nice to review if available.
BTW, our DP is 17 years old, we've never had any major maintenance required, and according to the shop we use is in very good condition. It has had the brakes relined, and we are planning to replace the shock absorbers this year. It has over 100,000 miles on the clock.
