Advice on buying USED motorhome
Before I read ALL these great topics, I'm trying to find some advice that I may need to purchase a good USED Class A. I have been camping most my 57 years of life, from pup tent to 30' travel traile...
Forum Discussion
Here is how I buy my used rigs.
I first find a good Independent garage that works on lots of trucks such as delivery trucks. I talk to the Service manager and let him know I am looking to buy a used Motor home. I ask if he would be willing to inspect the engine, powertrain, brakes etc for me BEFORE I BUY THE RIG. I ask him how much he would charge more or less for such an inspection and make sure he understands I AM PAYING FOR THE SERVICE and I am the customer . The service manager should be asking YOU questions at this point (if he is not find another place). If the service manager seems he just wants to get you out of his hair go somewhere else. If you choose wisely you will have found a good place to do business.
I go to see the rig and look at the interior. I try to make sure all appliances are working specially the fridge. I look outside for signs of abuse and check lights etc Test drive vehicle work wipers, check braking etc. Run the genny. I figure in my head what I a willing to pay and Make the offer contingent on the rig passing inspection at the repair place chosen. Make the seller aware that you will be paying for the inspection. Stress that if something minor is found it can be negotiated between you. Suggest you be allowed to drive rig with the owner to the shop. If you feel anything funny let your mechanic know.
Some things that should be checked by shop.
Compression test on engine
radiator pressure test
fluid leaks
Transmission and drive shaft
Steering components
Brakes F&R rotors, drum, brake lines emergency brakes.
AGE OF TIRES tires over 5 years old are NO GOOD for your purposes no matter how much tread is left
Your list will be longer
The mechanic will run you $200 - $300 but can save you buying a clunker. If the mechanic does well by you then you have found your repair place when needed
I first find a good Independent garage that works on lots of trucks such as delivery trucks. I talk to the Service manager and let him know I am looking to buy a used Motor home. I ask if he would be willing to inspect the engine, powertrain, brakes etc for me BEFORE I BUY THE RIG. I ask him how much he would charge more or less for such an inspection and make sure he understands I AM PAYING FOR THE SERVICE and I am the customer . The service manager should be asking YOU questions at this point (if he is not find another place). If the service manager seems he just wants to get you out of his hair go somewhere else. If you choose wisely you will have found a good place to do business.
I go to see the rig and look at the interior. I try to make sure all appliances are working specially the fridge. I look outside for signs of abuse and check lights etc Test drive vehicle work wipers, check braking etc. Run the genny. I figure in my head what I a willing to pay and Make the offer contingent on the rig passing inspection at the repair place chosen. Make the seller aware that you will be paying for the inspection. Stress that if something minor is found it can be negotiated between you. Suggest you be allowed to drive rig with the owner to the shop. If you feel anything funny let your mechanic know.
Some things that should be checked by shop.
Compression test on engine
radiator pressure test
fluid leaks
Transmission and drive shaft
Steering components
Brakes F&R rotors, drum, brake lines emergency brakes.
AGE OF TIRES tires over 5 years old are NO GOOD for your purposes no matter how much tread is left
Your list will be longer
The mechanic will run you $200 - $300 but can save you buying a clunker. If the mechanic does well by you then you have found your repair place when needed
