1977 Holiday Rambler a good buy?

westend wrote:
The HR line of TT's pops up here, frequently, with mention of '70's trailers just acquired or for sale. It leads me to believe they built a stout rig. I know they were one of the first to use aluminum frames. It's all about condition for the buyer. Inspect carefully and ask questions about usage from the previous owner.

One thing that most folks don't look at is the frame, itself. These older trailers mostly have full box frames, not a welded up mess of individual, perforated metal pieces. That is why a lot of them are still on the road.

Good luck with the hunt!

Acutally "box" frames CAN be a detriment, often times boxed frames will look "perfect" on the outside and yet be completely rusted out from the inside where you CAN'T see.

I beam or "C" channel overall IS overall better construction albeit heavier in the weight. With I beam or C channel you CAN inspect ALL aspects of the frame with the top being the exception to that.

I would take I beam or C channel frames anyday over a boxed frame (I HAD a trailer with a boxed frame and didn't like the fact that I couldn't see the condition of the inside).

The HR line of TT's pops up here, frequently, with mention of '70's trailers just acquired or for sale. It leads me to believe they built a stout rig. I know they were one of the first to use aluminum frames. It's all about condition for the buyer. Inspect carefully and ask questions about usage from the previous owner.

One thing that most folks don't look at is the frame, itself. These older trailers mostly have full box frames, not a welded up mess of individual, perforated metal pieces. That is why a lot of them are still on the road.

Good luck with the hunt!

Check everything, run your hand over every square inch of the interior ceiling, floor, especially the corners. If it smells moldy, it probably is. Open every hatch and look for black mold and dry rot. If you find some can you fix it? If not then walk.

Physically stand in the shower and shuffle around. Pay particular attention to the places where holes are cut in the roof. Like the roof vents etc. look for leaks. Earnestly look for leaks.

The appliances will likely need some repair or replacement. PPL Motorhomes is a great resource for parts and they have some of the best prices on the net.

Expect to remove every window and compartment door frame and replace the butyl putty that seals the trailer. It probably hasn't been done in 25 years. It's not hard just look some videos up on YouTube. Do this yourself and it will cost you about 30-50$ in supplies and a few hrs of work.

The tires, brakes, and axle hanger hardware is likely at the end of its life cycle. Budget $1500 to refurbish the brakes, axles, and replace the tires. Do not judge the tires by the amount of tread they wear. Trailer tires age rapidly and should be replaced every 3-4 years.

The interior finishing is up to you. Some people update, others just use as is.

Good luck on this adventure

Jeremiah

Where is it located? Hot humid area or dry area. Look hard for evidence of water leaks.