Newbie looking for advice on vintage RV purchase.
Forgive me, I'm totally new to the RV world and my post will be long winded. I'm looking for something within a small, small budget range of $2000 and under for just myself and my wife (2 small dogs.)
I found a 1977 Apollo 3000 RB - 40,000-ish miles in my hometown for $2000 but I would offer less, probably not anymore than $1600.
From what I can tell the overall body is in nice shape. Two small water damage spots on the corner of two side windows. I looked around the vents and AC units on top and didn't see evidence of any water damage.
The thing inside is pretty filthy, but nothing a good thorough cleaning couldn't solve. Nothing appears to be missing except the cab center table that plugs into the engine cover. That could easily be replicated in my dad's shop. The fabric on all the couches and beds are old, but not torn or stained. The carpet needs to either be replaced or shampooed. Curtains are old but there.
Original fridge is gone and smaller aftermarket is in it's place. The oven looks completely unused. Stove top just needs some comet and elbow grease.
All drawers and shelves are intact, no hinges broken or missing. A few light covers missing.
Current owners bought it in California and drove it to Utah for employment. They were thinking of living in it until they found housing, however they were able to find housing quickly and did not live in it. They told me the person who sold it to them said everything was working. (I will verify if I get more serious about it)
They told me it drives well, will need new tires I'm sure. Small ding on rear bumper that can be pulled out if so desired. Engine is 440 with two tanks, didn't start it up, like I said I would do that if I become more serious about it.
It would not be a "buy and go" RV, but it seems that with a little TLC and elbow grease it could be fun in a few weeks/months.
My concerns:
I know nothing about RV-ing other than with my dad and he only did travel trailers. He is currently re-building and restoring a 1953 travel trailer, he is also a cabinet maker and woodworker, so he could assist me with that type of stuff. I tow an old army trailer with my Jeep that I converted into a tent camper, but looking for something for the wife and pups.
What specifically should I look for when dealing with older RVs? Water damage, engine I know, but electrical? Relays? Water tanks? Propane tanks? These would all be things I need to check.
Gas mileage. I'm not naive, I know this isn't a Prius, but what would I expect to get? We're looking to skip the hotel scene when we travel, but if gas is 3 or 4 times more than a hotel, what would be the point?
There are other, smaller C-class RVs out there for the same cost and some even lower, but they are much smaller and require using the dinner table as the bed, something we're not fond of. Do you think the Apollo 3000 RB is too much RV?
Here are some pics, I hope they work...
I found a 1977 Apollo 3000 RB - 40,000-ish miles in my hometown for $2000 but I would offer less, probably not anymore than $1600.
From what I can tell the overall body is in nice shape. Two small water damage spots on the corner of two side windows. I looked around the vents and AC units on top and didn't see evidence of any water damage.
The thing inside is pretty filthy, but nothing a good thorough cleaning couldn't solve. Nothing appears to be missing except the cab center table that plugs into the engine cover. That could easily be replicated in my dad's shop. The fabric on all the couches and beds are old, but not torn or stained. The carpet needs to either be replaced or shampooed. Curtains are old but there.
Original fridge is gone and smaller aftermarket is in it's place. The oven looks completely unused. Stove top just needs some comet and elbow grease.
All drawers and shelves are intact, no hinges broken or missing. A few light covers missing.
Current owners bought it in California and drove it to Utah for employment. They were thinking of living in it until they found housing, however they were able to find housing quickly and did not live in it. They told me the person who sold it to them said everything was working. (I will verify if I get more serious about it)
They told me it drives well, will need new tires I'm sure. Small ding on rear bumper that can be pulled out if so desired. Engine is 440 with two tanks, didn't start it up, like I said I would do that if I become more serious about it.
It would not be a "buy and go" RV, but it seems that with a little TLC and elbow grease it could be fun in a few weeks/months.
My concerns:
I know nothing about RV-ing other than with my dad and he only did travel trailers. He is currently re-building and restoring a 1953 travel trailer, he is also a cabinet maker and woodworker, so he could assist me with that type of stuff. I tow an old army trailer with my Jeep that I converted into a tent camper, but looking for something for the wife and pups.
What specifically should I look for when dealing with older RVs? Water damage, engine I know, but electrical? Relays? Water tanks? Propane tanks? These would all be things I need to check.
Gas mileage. I'm not naive, I know this isn't a Prius, but what would I expect to get? We're looking to skip the hotel scene when we travel, but if gas is 3 or 4 times more than a hotel, what would be the point?
There are other, smaller C-class RVs out there for the same cost and some even lower, but they are much smaller and require using the dinner table as the bed, something we're not fond of. Do you think the Apollo 3000 RB is too much RV?
Here are some pics, I hope they work...
