When I take my car in to the shop they run it through a 20 some point inspection and tell me everything that needs to be addressed or repaired. I'm new to RVing but would assume they do the same for a MH when it's brought in. When a dealership takes in a used MH they claim they run it through a x number of points inspection before reselling it. Does anyone have or know of a checklist or inspection list that the pro's use to evaluate any issues with a MH? I will be taking possession of a 2004 Winnebago in a few weeks and I want to run it through the paces when I get it home to see where I'm at.Any thoughts or ideas would be greatly appreciated.

Many dealers "checklist" is primarily relegated to visual appearance to ensure they can sell it, and checking your wallet. There seems to be a tendency by many in the industry to wait until they have a sale to prep and inspect/repair units.Several people on here have PDI list, I'm sure one will be along shortly to offer one, you should find that helpful.

Hopefully you've done all the inspections and checks with a fine-toothed comb before you ever actually gave them any serious amount of money. Once they have your money, you are reduced to relying on the good will of the dealership to have problems addressed. Not good.A salesman eager to make a sale will tell you many things, some of which may be true. And maybe they sidestep the truth by telling you they "run it through a x number of points inspection before reselling it", but don't elaborate by saying they don't necessarily fix things they found wrong. There are several posters on here who have a PDI(Pre Delivery Inspection) list of things to check. I'm sure some of them will stop by with their help.

sorry... I guess I should have mentioned that this MH is gifted to me. So I will take it however I can get it. I do know it runs. I do know there a lower miles on the tires and for the most part in pretty good shape. Its the stuff I don't know that I need to inspect. If that makes any since.

OK different set of issues. How long has it been sitting? If a year or more, immediately have the oil and possibly other fluids changed. Check the date codes on the tires, if 5 years old or older, if possible change them, if not go slow on your way home. These items I would try to do before leaving. Basic safety items as for any vehicle, lights, horn, wipers etc should all be checked. All of this is in addition to the PDI type list covering the house areas of the unit.

You might be able to find a dealer that will do an inspection for you...at a price. Personally I would do it myself, which you should be able to do. As was mentioned a lot can depend on how long it's been sitting unused. The roof is one thing that needs to be checked thoroughly for any leaks, holes, tears, etc. Then things like the house water pump, and associated water lines. Then check for working water heater, refrigerator, stove/oven, shower and shower enclosure, furnace. Then check the condition of sewer lines, holding tanks, and hoses. And of course all the mechanical functions of the motor/chassis/transmission and associated parts, i.e. water pump, alternator, battery, brakes, etc.Good luck, and come back and let us know how it has all worked out.

General Inspection Checklist | Good Sam Community

kerrlakeRoo
Explorer
Jan 30, 2018
One last thought since your up in Snow country, and it's winter.
You could check the area where it's located for a Loves or other travel stop type location in the area. I know loves will do your oil in most cases and does offer a quick safety inspection service.
It may be available and give you some peace of mind.
Happy motorin
Colorado__5
Explorer
Jan 31, 2018
Update.

Found a diesel shop on the way back to my AO that will do an oil change for me. If I decide not to do it myself. I'm fully capable I just don't like changing the oil in cold weather.

Will checking the temps on the tires truly give me a since of how they are holding up? I have a laser temp gauge. And that would really give me a good peace of mind if I'm able to monitor the state of the tires.
D_E_Bishop
Explorer
Jan 31, 2018
I would either have a tire shop do an inspection or read up on what to look for as far as age damage is concernedor check and see if there is a youutube video on the subject.

You seem to have a handle on the oil but remember to have the shop do a test on the coolant and drain the old windshield washer fluid.

As far as a comprehensive PDI type of check list, there are several PDIs available on line. For the most part the inspections are easy to do and a mobile or shop tech is not needed.

Keep checking back here for anything you have questions on.
Colorado__5
Explorer
Jan 31, 2018
This diesel shop deals in heavy duty trucks. Do you think they would be able to do a good tire inspection?
toedtoes
Explorer III
Jan 31, 2018
Colorado #5 wrote:
Update.

Found a diesel shop on the way back to my AO that will do an oil change for me. If I decide not to do it myself. I'm fully capable I just don't like changing the oil in cold weather.

Will checking the temps on the tires truly give me a since of how they are holding up? I have a laser temp gauge. And that would really give me a good peace of mind if I'm able to monitor the state of the tires.

It's not "oh, I checked the temps and there won't be any problems" kind of fix. But, if you are just trying to get the RV home so you can have the time to really go through everything, etc., then it can help you get through that one trip. If one or more tires show excessive heat, then you need to stop driving and get them replaced immediately. If they are all within a good temp range, then you can check for new cracking, separation, etc., and make a judgment call about finishing the drive home before getting new tires.
Colorado__5
Explorer
Jan 31, 2018
toedtoes wrote:
Colorado #5 wrote:
Update.

Found a diesel shop on the way back to my AO that will do an oil change for me. If I decide not to do it myself. I'm fully capable I just don't like changing the oil in cold weather.

Will checking the temps on the tires truly give me a since of how they are holding up? I have a laser temp gauge. And that would really give me a good peace of mind if I'm able to monitor the state of the tires.

It's not "oh, I checked the temps and there won't be any problems" kind of fix. But, if you are just trying to get the RV home so you can have the time to really go through everything, etc., then it can help you get through that one trip. If one or more tires show excessive heat, then you need to stop driving and get them replaced immediately. If they are all within a good temp range, then you can check for new cracking, separation, etc., and make a judgment call about finishing the drive home before getting new tires.

Yep... That is exactly how I interpreted that idea. Just a tool to get me home or help me realize I need new tires before going any further.

Forum Discussion

General Inspection Checklist

About RV Tips & Tricks

Related Content

inspection

RV inspections

Inspection

PDI Checklist

Failed Inspection