Forum Discussion

zippyphil's avatar
zippyphil
Explorer
Jan 06, 2015

RV Restoration

I am not sure if this belongs in this thread so tell me if i should post this somewhere else.

I have been putting serious efforts in deciding about my RV purchase. I have thought about buying NEW (which comes without a break in period and the other usual problems other buying guides address.)buying USED (15K miles or so an well kept records ETC) buying USED with the intention of replacing engine/trans, brakes and updating the interior, lighting.

What are your thoughts?

How or where would you find a qualified person to do this?

I will not be able to do it ALL myself.
  • GlennLever's avatar
    GlennLever
    Explorer
    Jan 06, 2015
    Finding qualified tech is near impossible. best bet is to buy well maintained used with documentation.
  • Oasisbob's avatar
    Oasisbob
    Explorer
    Jan 06, 2015
    If you buy used have a reputable non biast RV service center check it over prior to purchase. No matter how much you know it will be money well spent. An honest seller should be fine with this.
  • zippyphil's avatar
    zippyphil
    Explorer
    Jan 06, 2015
    I have found a few models I like but some are from 1999 with 60K or so. I think I would rather do almost a full overhaul on the drivetrain. maybe restoration was the wrong word. or maybe overkill sounding. but if it is 1999 or so, just updating a little bit inside. maybe like this one?

    http://miami.craigslist.org/pbc/rvs/4832332596.html
  • RoyB's avatar
    RoyB
    Explorer II
    Jan 06, 2015
    There are some places that will build the RV Trailer or MOTORHOME just like you want it... Try Search on GOOGLE...

    Roy Ken
  • agesilaus's avatar
    agesilaus
    Explorer III
    Jan 06, 2015
    I'm guessing you could sink more money into a used model plus renovation than you might spend on a newer model. Add to that the stress that will surely be involved. Look for a used model that is a few years old and doesn't need major work.
  • Trackrig's avatar
    Trackrig
    Explorer II
    Jan 06, 2015
    Buy a good used one - let someone else pay the depreciation and go through the pain of getting all of the bugs worked out of it.

    I wouldn't buy a worn-out severely used one with the idea renovating it unless you just want something to do and have a lot of spare change. If you can't do it all yourself, you're going to pay someone $65 to $125 an hour to do the work. If you're looking at this route to save money, don't do it.

    Bill

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