Used DP Pre-purchase Inspection
We are looking at getting a used DP in the next year, likely between 2001 and 2008, 36' to 40'. Budget is $45k to $70k. We also have a list of preferences including: side radiator, Cummuns ISC or IS...
Forum Discussion
Winnipeg wrote:
.......Any suggestions?
I just bought a used DP after looking for a year. I was looking but not ready to buy until I sold my boat. That year gave me a good overview of what was out there and what price range I could expect so when my boat sold I was pretty well informed.
Like someone else said '01 to '08 is a large range in terms of price. You're likely to find something in your price range if you look in the earlier models if you're looking for a ISL with side radiator.
I think an inspection is mandatory. Especially a chassis inspection. My rig has a Spartan chassis but I couldn't get a Spartan shop to inspect it so I got a Freightliner shop to do it. The shop found $2500 in repair costs that the owner agreed to fix. I also got a house inspection from a different facility. Total cost for inspections was about $700. Well worth it.
It wasn't easy arranging and finding shops to do these PDI's, especially when the coach is miles away. But after several phone calls and a lot of perseverance I got things lined up. Then I had to get the seller on board with timing and his cooperation with driving the coach to the shops for the inspections. I had fluid samples taken by the freightliner shop and was ready with the containers for the samples.
In my case I could tell the moment I saw the coach it was well taken care of. It was garaged kept and looked almost new. '07 American Tradition. Before going to the trouble of having inspections done, take a careful look at the coach and try and determine if it's worth your time and money having it inspected. Talking with the seller and getting to know him a little helps too. Get pictures and a picture of the title. If the seller balks at anything remind him that if he really wants to sell it, he'll need to cooperate.
Maintenance agreements on a used coach are expensive, but rightfully so. Even with my due diligence I had to repair the dash air at a cost of nearly 3 grand. But a good chassis inspection should head off the more expensive repairs and I choose not to get a maintenance agreement. So far I'm ahead.
