RVing with no mechanical capability
I have seen a lot of people suggest that one should not purchase an RV if one is not at least somewhat handy mechanically. Well, I am not handy mechanically at all and I'm also an old guy who cannot b...
Forum Discussion
Non-DIYers here. Motorhome-ing for about 30 years with about 5 different MHs. First, you definitely have to be able to afford repairs done by someone else (as previously mentioned). Second, you need to have a mindset that doesn't go crazy with upset and fear when something goes wrong.
It's good to have a trusted mechanic (for engine stuff) and RV tech (for all the other stuff) close to home. That way, you can get things fixed when home that aren't emergencies. That said, we have used lots and lots of repair shops, mobile techs, roadside assistance, etc. during our thousands and thousands of miles traveled in the USA and Canada over the years. Mostly good experiences, with a few not so good. But that's life, isn't it?
We've had our fuel pump suddenly stop working and a hole blown out in our exhaust system while driving on a freeway. We've had multiple mobile techs come out to us at campgrounds, even one that roadside assistance sent to Glacier Nat'l Park. We've stayed in the yard of multiple repair shops for the night. Etc. Etc.
We do try to be very good and consistent about keeping our engine, tires, and batteries maintained (by someone else...other than I check the water in the batteries)...so as to minimize getting stuck out on the road.
We used to go out and boondock on a lot of US Forest Service roads when we had a smaller MH without tow car, but we didn't go TOO far out.
All this is to say that IMO you can be a non-DIYer RVer. Just know what you're getting into.
It's good to have a trusted mechanic (for engine stuff) and RV tech (for all the other stuff) close to home. That way, you can get things fixed when home that aren't emergencies. That said, we have used lots and lots of repair shops, mobile techs, roadside assistance, etc. during our thousands and thousands of miles traveled in the USA and Canada over the years. Mostly good experiences, with a few not so good. But that's life, isn't it?
We've had our fuel pump suddenly stop working and a hole blown out in our exhaust system while driving on a freeway. We've had multiple mobile techs come out to us at campgrounds, even one that roadside assistance sent to Glacier Nat'l Park. We've stayed in the yard of multiple repair shops for the night. Etc. Etc.
We do try to be very good and consistent about keeping our engine, tires, and batteries maintained (by someone else...other than I check the water in the batteries)...so as to minimize getting stuck out on the road.
We used to go out and boondock on a lot of US Forest Service roads when we had a smaller MH without tow car, but we didn't go TOO far out.
All this is to say that IMO you can be a non-DIYer RVer. Just know what you're getting into.
