Forum Discussion

NRCP's avatar
NRCP
Explorer
Jul 13, 2017

Need advice for brand new RVers

My husband and I are wanting to purchase an RV but we are overwhelmed by the information. We are currently looking at possibly purchasing a 2008 Forest River Lexington model, 28 ft, from our local RV dealer in Western British Columbia. We love the floor plan. There are 3 pull outs and everything is original.

The dealer has had a "safety check" for the chassis etc, but we are wondering whether this 9 year old RV is too old. It has only 36K Km on it which sounds good, but others say watch out for low km on older vehicles.

I would appreciate any input to help us decide.
  • fitznj's avatar
    fitznj
    Explorer
    Jul 14, 2017
    Like all things - if properly maintained they should last for many years. I've some 5 year old RVs which look like hell and other 20 year old RVs that still look brand new. 9 years is not too old if it;s been taken care of.

    If you don;t feel comfortable - get an RV mechanic to check it and give it a once over. If cars/rvs don't get used much they do tend to deteriorate - brakes are usually the first to give problems from under use and anything rubber.
  • MarkTwain's avatar
    MarkTwain
    Explorer
    Jul 14, 2017
    Take the RV to your trusted RV mechanic/shop. Pay$200 or so and have all the systems, engine etc etc checked to determine what might have to be done to fix any issues.
  • Crowe's avatar
    Crowe
    Explorer
    Jul 14, 2017
    Isn't it obvious that the OP is attempting to remedy his overwhelmed situation by seeking advice!

    Give him (and the rest of us) a break!

    X2. It's clear the OP is trying to become less overwhelmed by asking questions. It would have been much more productive to offer real insight.

    The issue with older motorhomes that have low mileage is that it could indicate it has sat for long periods of time, which is not good for any motor vehicle. Sometimes it means they just didn't drive very far. A thorough check by a trusted mechanic as stated above is a good place to start. Ask for service records as well.
  • CarnationSailor's avatar
    CarnationSailor
    Nomad
    Jul 14, 2017
    Lwiddis wrote:
    "overwhelmed by the information."

    IMO no one should buy an RV when overwhelmed.


    Isn't it obvious that the OP is attempting to remedy her overwhelmed situation by seeking advice!

    Give her (and the rest of us) a break!
  • Lwiddis's avatar
    Lwiddis
    Explorer II
    Jul 13, 2017
    "overwhelmed by the information."

    IMO no one should buy an RV when overwhelmed.
  • jplante4's avatar
    jplante4
    Explorer II
    Jul 13, 2017
    That looks like a class B+. 3 slideouts in a class B camper van. Pretty cool floor plan.

    The average RV mileage is about 5000 miles (8000 KM) a year, so this is on the low side. If you're worried, find a mobile RV mechanic or an RV inspector to go over the rig. Anything the dealer does is worthless.

    My Sahara is 21 years old now and still going strong. 140k miles.
  • NRCP's avatar
    NRCP
    Explorer
    Jul 13, 2017
    It's a Class B plus because it doesn't have the overhead bead area, but it's long and really looks like a Class C.
  • wa8yxm's avatar
    wa8yxm
    Explorer III
    Jul 13, 2017
    Is this a motor home or a Trailer.
    Trailers often can last a long, long time..
    Motor homes as well but well.. I'd be less trustful of an older motor home till my mechanic certified the engine and oil analysis was back from the lab.

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