Ok.....I think we're going to do this thing :)We are moving from a 5th wheel to our first Class A. We are looking at pre-owned diesel pushers in the 40+ range. Most of what we are looking at is 2015 and 2016. The miles are typically low, but other than interior wear and tear, I'm not sure what else to look for.One of my concerns is tires. I know there is something called "lot rot", but I don't know how to spot it. If these rigs have been sitting in storage or on a lot (or a campground for that matter) for a couple of years (under 15,000 miles) how do I be sure the tires are ok? I can see and feel lots of tread, but what else should I be looking for in terms of good, safe tires?Product lines are Tiffin, Newmar, Entegra, Winnebago btw.Thanks for your thoughts, ideas and experience!

if you are looking at 2 or 3 year old units, I wouldn't be concerned with tires quite yet. whether they have been driven for 18,000 miles or sat parked most of the time.bumpy

If you're looking at a 2015 or 2016 DP, you're looking at double or triple your $40K price range. And I wouldn't worry about tires on a 15 or 16, you may have to deal with tires on a DP that will be older in the $40K range.Bill

I think he meant 40 foot plus range. I would just check the date codes on the tires to make sure no one has swapped a tire or two. If they're current you're good to go. I would also look to see what kind of annual maintenance was done on the DP.

Trackrig wrote:If you're looking at a 2015 or 2016 DP, you're looking at double or triple your $40K price range. Good point. I thought the OP was talking about length, 40+ feet.I would still check the age of the tires, maybe the original owner changed them before it was traded or sold?

A good bet is to replace your tires between 5-7 years from the DOT date on the tire, unless you see cracks before. Good luck!

taking the plunge - sortof | Good Sam Community

gbopp
Explorer
Apr 09, 2017
bobkatmsu wrote:
Seems like the correct time to change tires gets shorter and shorter. I remember when I first got on the sight the recommended time was 8 years, then seven, now 5-7. What do manufacturers recommend?

If it was up to the tire manufacturers it would probably be the same as windshield wipers, every six months. :B
tomthyme
Explorer
Apr 09, 2017
one other thought for you guys to weigh in on....if you have time....

There seems to be about a 3-5 year breakpoint when I dip into 2012, 2011, etc. That shaves some cash off the deal for sure. However, mileage seems to be around 40-60k. I don't think there can be too much to worry about chassis wise, but what do you guys think you would look for?

Thanks so much!
anakindogwalker
Explorer
Apr 09, 2017
tomthyme wrote:
Trackrig wrote:
..... and a hitch rated for 15,000#, that would handle my Jeep.

Bill

I don't understand the 15k hitch requirement for a Jeep. Is it trailered? Or perhaps you are also towing something else?

Thanks again!

10 K hitch should be enough for a Jeep. Depending on the model, the jeep weighs about 5000 lbs. If putting the jeep on a trailer, add about 2000 lbs for the trailer.
Trackrig
Explorer II
Apr 09, 2017
tomthyme wrote:
Trackrig wrote:
..... and a hitch rated for 15,000#, that would handle my Jeep.

Bill

I don't understand the 15k hitch requirement for a Jeep. Is it trailered? Or perhaps you are also towing something else?

Thanks again!

That was my early morning humor. The Jeep weighs less than 3,500#.

Bill
C20
Explorer
Apr 09, 2017
Dont be afraid of one with some miles. We bought ours 3 years old with 8k on it. First three years we had a lot of problems with it. We retired 4 years ago and now have 70K and the more we drive it the less that goes wrong. These diesels like to get down the road! My point is I'd take a higher mileage one, for less money!
dave17352
Explorer
Apr 10, 2017
Tire age is real. I just came back from a fishing trip about 700 miles round trip. My tires on boat trailer are 8 years old. I tried to buy new ones before we left but they could not get them in. On the way back the tread came off and ripped off one fender. Didn't blow just all the tread came off. Changed to my spare and lucked out with a great tire shop just north of Saint Joseph MO. Tods tires I think. I told then I would take two I was going to use the remaining tire for the spare til I looked at it. It was also coming apart. So I bought 3 tires. Good for another 6 to 8 years. Over the years I have had several come apart on trailers. Also on my previous Class C. For most these tires just sit way to much. JMHO
Dave
DryCreek
Explorer
Apr 10, 2017
Trackrig wrote:
That was my early morning humor. The Jeep weighs less than 3,500#.

Bill

YJ? Or possibly a CJ. I think that the TJ line is where the pounds really started adding in to the build. I know my YJ scales in at 3,490 with a full tank (no back seat), but my "Walrus" (JK/Sahara) tips the scale at 4,275 lbs - even with no back seat and the dog on a leash by my side.

Of course, like the weight, the ride and capabilities are a world apart too.
True_temper
Explorer
Apr 10, 2017
I wouldn't worry about 5 year old tires, I have underwear a lot older than that.
Mile_High
Explorer
Apr 10, 2017
DryCreek wrote:
Trackrig wrote:
That was my early morning humor. The Jeep weighs less than 3,500#.

Bill

YJ? Or possibly a CJ. I think that the TJ line is where the pounds really started adding in to the build. I know my YJ scales in at 3,490 with a full tank (no back seat), but my "Walrus" (JK/Sahara) tips the scale at 4,275 lbs - even with no back seat and the dog on a leash by my side.

Of course, like the weight, the ride and capabilities are a world apart too.

Ya I'm anxious to see how my JKU tows this year. We had a TJ last year. I may be cussing the weight.

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