used "C": how old is too old?
All, Thinking (dreaming) of buying our first RV. Not looking at new models... they depreciate too quickly. I see 10-12 year old used models priced from $12- $20K and 4-6 yr old units priced from $3...
Forum Discussion
I had a TT for several years before I decided to get a class C. I was nowhere near being an "expert" and I was still learning a lot of the basics, but I had people around me to ask for instructions, etc. I didn't want to spend a lot up front (was paying cash so had a max amount available). I didn't want all the newfangled gadgetry (tvs, microwaves, generators, etc.), just the basics (water - cold & hot, lights, toilet, fridge, stove).
I ended up buying a 38 year old American Clipper. Here are the things I found to be important in the big scheme of things:
1. there is a healthy community of clipper owners who share info and technical knowledge with each other. This has been invaluable. Having a rig specific support system cannot be beat!
2. the clipper was built quality. All the original appliances are still working (I do have a leak in the propane line to the heater so I don't use it, but the heater itself is functional). The clipper is molded fiberglass which is sweet. No delamination, buckling, bubbling, etc. It also greatly reduces leak issues. Buying a quality rig will greatly enhance your experience.
3. I listened to all the advice about whether or not to buy an older RV, etc. and then I made the decision based on MY needs, wants and abilities. I put together realistic expectations as to the expense for upkeep, etc. I prioritize work as to what affects me more (e.g., rather than putting money into fixing the leak in the propane heater, I closed it off and put the money into moving the grey dump valve out from underneath the chassis).
It all comes down to what YOU are comfortable with. Make your own decision - don't just duplicate someone else's decision. Once you make your decision, embrace it. Focus on the benefits you gained with your decision, not what everyone else says you lost with your decision.
P.S. of the items you listed in the OP, only my charger is replaced. The original converter/charger still converts fine, but it wasn't charging. Rather than spend money fixing it, we took a newish PD charger/converter that was pulled from the TT and installed it to charge the battery. If the original converter ever quits, we'll just hook everything over to the PD. ALL the other items are still working at 39 years old.
I ended up buying a 38 year old American Clipper. Here are the things I found to be important in the big scheme of things:
1. there is a healthy community of clipper owners who share info and technical knowledge with each other. This has been invaluable. Having a rig specific support system cannot be beat!
2. the clipper was built quality. All the original appliances are still working (I do have a leak in the propane line to the heater so I don't use it, but the heater itself is functional). The clipper is molded fiberglass which is sweet. No delamination, buckling, bubbling, etc. It also greatly reduces leak issues. Buying a quality rig will greatly enhance your experience.
3. I listened to all the advice about whether or not to buy an older RV, etc. and then I made the decision based on MY needs, wants and abilities. I put together realistic expectations as to the expense for upkeep, etc. I prioritize work as to what affects me more (e.g., rather than putting money into fixing the leak in the propane heater, I closed it off and put the money into moving the grey dump valve out from underneath the chassis).
It all comes down to what YOU are comfortable with. Make your own decision - don't just duplicate someone else's decision. Once you make your decision, embrace it. Focus on the benefits you gained with your decision, not what everyone else says you lost with your decision.
P.S. of the items you listed in the OP, only my charger is replaced. The original converter/charger still converts fine, but it wasn't charging. Rather than spend money fixing it, we took a newish PD charger/converter that was pulled from the TT and installed it to charge the battery. If the original converter ever quits, we'll just hook everything over to the PD. ALL the other items are still working at 39 years old.
