toedtoes wrote:
The most common comment you'll hear about old rigs is that they will cost more than they are worth to make reliable. In my opinion, this is the wrong way to look at it.
Instead, consider this:
How much will it cost to get a reliable motorhome of about the same size that will not need ant money going into repairs for the first 5 years (this amount does NOT include normal maintenence, tires or batteries). Now subtract bow much you paid for your RV from that. This is how much you can put into your RV and still consider it reasonable.
Because, as with many things, the value of an RV isn't its "resale" value - its how much you would have to spend in order to get another that is reliable.
For me, that meant I was looking at about $40-$50K as my baseline. I have spent less than $20K on purchase and various repairs (yes, I rebuilt my engine and put in a new carburetor even). I am still out far less money for the pleasure of having a motorhome than if I had bought a "reliable" one from the outset.
I am 100% in agreement with this. I just got an rv for free, Im not looking to sell it right now,or in the future(it would look bad anyways). I am using this to have fun rebuilding, and learning about the RV world which i wanted to get into.
My FIL overheard us wanting to get one and just gave us his. I mean, he obviously wasnt using it and he knew it needed work. But hey, i like the challenge.
As far as where im at today...
Welp, I got it home everybody! It was a challenge none the less. It was not starting, we figured out it was the fuel pump that was not sucking the gas.
The real issue was finding the right fuel pump. We ended up with a fuel pump from a 1972 charger 440. It was a nightmare trying to find this part. Took us about 4 different auto part stores to find it. As soon as we installed it boom! fired right up. All fluids were good enough(ill be changing all of them asap) and the brakes and radiator were fine. Drove it home about 12 miles and parked it for the thorough cleaning ill be giving it tomorrow.
As far as the interior, not to bad at all, no scary rotted wood, or puddles anywhere. The FIL kept it covered pretty well. I just have figure out the generator situation and buy all the vent covers. I also will be replacing all rubbers as everybody suggested. All is good, it now runs perfectly, shifts smooth and man have i ever felt so good about the future fun ill be having.
If i could only get the right vehicle to look up for parts. Seems like im going to have to bring parts with me to match every time.
