If buying used, any era that might be preferred?

I think that manufacturer rather than era is what you should look at. Dealer rather than private party to insure everything has been checked out and there are no surprises.

Given that, I'd still go with 21st century era.

Condition is the important factor when buying a used RV.
An older well maintained unit in good condition is usually a better buy than a newer unit in poor condition.

If the interior is worn and dirty, you can usually assume the owner did not take care of the mechanical items.

Look for signs of water leaks. A small leak can cause a lot of damage if not repaired quickly.
And, when buying used, check the age of the tires. RV tires usually age out before they wear out.

Take your time and look around, don't be in a hurry to buy. You will find the right unit at the right price.

So true with the tires. We learned the hard way on a trip.. Tire when flat, turned out previous owner plugged it.

we bought our 2010 used. Without us asking the owner told us anything we find wrong in the first 30 days would be fixed free.

One of the reasons I prefer shopping at a family owned dealer.

As for era? The '60s and '70s, IMHO, are the best built. Solid frames though with few amenities compared to today.

Still wish I had the first TT my folks bought new in the early '70s. The only draw on the electrical draw was the lights. The water was drawn by a hand pump at the sink. No toilet, though. As I recall, probably 18 feet or less but slept six.

No TV. No radio. No surround sound anything. No A/C. It did have a furnace AND an oven.

Just a simple TT for a family to go camping in. No need for full hookups. Heck, no need for any hookup. Wish I had that thing for hunting now.

My current TT has a microwave, which I have no use for. Though, my aunt made me realize it makes a great bread box. Bless her heart, and she is right!

TNrob wrote:
I've heard of frame issues and wonder if there might be an era when they were overbuilt rather than under. When buying used is there a "cutoff" for how old once you get back maybe 5 years? An era when quality is heads and shoulders above other biild eras?

Given due diligence, can one expect a 92 to be better than an 02 or a 12? Of course understanding that old stuff needs maintenance and repairs.

Is this a 5th wheel question, motorhome, travel trailer....?

Newer the better.

B.O.